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Transfer news LIVE! Lionel Messi next club latest; Gvardiol to Chelsea; Mudryk to Arsenal; Tottenham rumours
Transfer news LIVE!
The January transfer window is almost open as Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham all compete with their Premier League rivals to get major early deals over the line with lots of targets picked up from the World Cup.
Chelsea have already lined up a deal for Molde striker David Fofana and have now clinched the long-awaited summer signing of Christopher Nkunku from RB Leipzig for £63million. The Blues also have their eye on Josko Gvardiol and Youssoufa Moukoko after being offered Joao Felix and Matheus Cunha.
Arsenal are in talks over signing Mykhaylo Mudryk, with Sergej-Milinkovic Savic also believed to be on the Gunners’ transfer radar approaching the New Year. Tottenham are competing with Liverpool for Morocco World Cup hero Sofyan Amrabat, with Mohammed Kudus and Ruslan Malinovskyi among the other targets. Lionel Messi’s role in the World Cup final has also heightened attention on his next club. Follow all the latest transfer news, rumours and gossip LIVE below!
Latest transfer news and rumours
Lionel Messi next club latest
Chelsea prepare Gvardiol bid
Arteta speaks out amid Mudryk talks
Chelsea bag Nkunku for £63m
Boost in Gakpo chase
ICYMI: Arsenal back in for Vlahovic
07:00 , Jonathan Gorrie
Dusan Vlahovic will not leave Juventus in January.
That is according to a report in Tuttosport, who claim the Serbian striker has no intention of changing clubs only a year after arriving in Turin.
Arsenal and Chelsea were among a number of clubs tipped to bid for Vlahovic next month.
ICYMI: Lionel Messi’s next club update
06:30 , Jonathan Gorrie
Where will Lionel Messi be playing next season?
Messi’s contract at Paris Saint-Germain expires in June.
The Times last month reported advanced talks between the Argentina World Cup star and Inter Miami for a move to the States.
It would make him the highest-paid player in MLS history.
Chelsea want to win Josko Gvardiol battle
06:00 , Jonathan Gorrie
Josko Gvardiol emerged as one of the breakout stars of the World Cup, surely raising RB Leipzig’s asking price.
Chelsea and Manchester City are keen, while Real Madrid have been linked.
According to The Sun, Graham Potter is looking to win the battle by making a January move.
Tottenham dealt Sofyan Amrabat transfer blow
05:30 , Jonathan Gorrie
Tottenham were keen on a move for Sofyan Amrabat in January but saw a move broke down when they instead moved for Rodrigo Bentancur.
Following his impressive World Cup performances, however, the Fiorentina midfielder is linked once more.
Still, according to Foot Mercato, the 26-year-old would prefer a move to Liverpool.
Frenkie DJong open to Manchester United move
05:00 , Jonathan Gorrie
This one just isn’t going away.
Linked with a move to Old Trafford all summer, it seemed as if Manchester United would never get their hands on Frenkie De Jong.
The Mirror, however, now claim the Dutchman has told Erik ten Hag he’d be open to the idea of joining the club.
Chelsea eye Hincapie
16:45 , Marc Mayo
Piero Hincapie is an option for Chelsea, if they fail to land Josko Gvardiol.
The Ecuadorian defender caught the eye at the World Cup and, at 20 years of age, is highly rated by his club, Bayer Leverkusen.
France’s Thuram up for grabs
15:46 , Marc Mayo
Marcus Thuram will be available for just £10m in January.
The World Cup finalist is out of contract at Borussia Monchengladbach and has plenty of suitors, according to Bild.
Manchester United and Inter Milan are among them.
It’s the World Cup final!
14:53 , Marc Mayo
Follow all the action from Argentina vs France with our live blog...
Lionel Messi next club latest
14:38 , Marc Mayo
Where will Lionel Messi be playing next season?
Messi’s contract at Paris Saint-Germain expires in June.
The Times last month reported advanced talks between the Argentina World Cup star and Inter Miami for a move to the States.
It would make him the highest-paid player in MLS history.
Huge Man United boost in Gakpo chase
14:10 , Marc Mayo
PSV Eindhoven manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has admitted Cody Gakpo could leave in January.
Manchester United held talks to sign the Dutch striker in the summer amid rival interest from Arsenal and Leeds.
Van Nistelrooy said: “If I have the choice, I prefer [Gakpo to leave in] the summer, but it can also be now. You just know there comes a time when you can't say no.”
Chelsea look at Brighton talent
13:17 , Marc Mayo
Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo is attracting interest from Chelsea.
Sky Sports name Liverpool as also keen on the Ecuadorian, who impressed at the World Cup.
The Seagulls can demand a high fee for Caicedo however, given he is under contract to 2025.
Arsenal back in for Danilo
12:34 , Marc Mayo
Palmeiras midfielder Danilo dos Santos has once again been linked with Arsenal.
Fichajes reckon the perenially-linked Brazilian is back on the Gunners’ agenda in January.
Chelsea to launch Gvardiol bid
11:58 , Marc Mayo
Chelsea are preparing to test the water with a £45m bid for Josko Gvardiol.
RB Leipzig will demand a high fee for the Croatian defender after he starred at the World Cup.
But with rival interest from Real Madrid, the Mirror say Chelsea are keen to get around the negotiating table as soon as possible.
Busquets to join Messi in MLS?
11:35 , Marc Mayo
Sergio Busquets could reunite with Lionel Messi next season.
The Argentina star is tipped to move to MLS and, in particular, Inter Miami when his PSG contract expires.
Mundo Deportivo claim Busquets will leave Barcelona in the summer with a Stateside switch on the cards, and again Miami lead the race.
Udogie ready to get to work at Spurs
11:04 , Marc Mayo
Tottenham youngster Destiny Udogie is looking forward to arriving at the club in the summer.
The Udinese left-back put pen to paper on a Spurs switch before returning on loan to the Italian team.
“I like the Premier League a lot,” he told SportWeek. “It's a very competitive league like Serie A, but the level is higher.”
Wan-Bissaka wanted by West Ham
10:33 , Marc Mayo
West Ham are keen on a deal for Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
The Manchester United right-back is being eyed for a loan spell by the Hammers, according to MEN.
Diogo Dalot has pushed Wan-Bissaka out of the United line-up and Wolves have also shown a reported interest in a January move.
Vlahovic going nowhere
10:07 , Marc Mayo
Dusan Vlahovic will not leave Juventus in January.
That is according to a report in Tuttosport, who claim the Serbian striker has no intention of changing clubs only a year after arriving in Turin.
Arsenal and Chelsea were among a number of clubs tipped to bid for Vlahovic next month.
Kalulu catches Spurs' attention
09:34 , Marc Mayo
Pierre Kalulu has caught the eye of Tottenham.
AC Milan are considering selling the 22-year-old defender for £44m, according to CalcioMercato.
Japhet Tanganga has been named as a possible swap component in a deal, while Spurs are also reportedly pondering a bid for Harry Maguire.
Nelson blow won’t affect Arsenal plans
09:05 , Marc Mayo
An injury to Reiss Nelson will not force Arsenal into a quicker deal for Mykhaylo Mudryk.
The Gunners are in talks over the Ukrainian winger but want to reduce his £86m price tag set by Shakhtar Donetsk.
Speaking after Nelson was taken off in Saturday’s friendly defeat to Juventus, Mikel Arteta said the blow will not change his January plans.
“Let’s see what will happen,” he told reporters. “We know what we have to do and that doesn’t change the plans.”
Chelsea bag Nkunku deal
08:54 , Marc Mayo
It has long been reported that Chelsea are set to sign Christopher Nkunku for the start of next season.
The deal is now done, according to Fabrizio Romano, with a £63m fee agreed.
That is higher than RB Leipzig’s supposed release clause for the France striker, which Chelsea are said to be happy to pay to get the deal over the line.
Arsenal back in for Vlahovic
Saturday 17 December 2022 23:30 , Alex Young
Arsenal are looking into reigniting interest in Dusan Vlahovic, a year on from missing out on the striker to Juventus.
Corriere dello Sport report the Gunners interest in back on the table after Gabriel Jesus' injury, though Manchester United can also not be ruled out as they look to replace Cristiano Ronaldo.
It remains to be seen if Juventus decide to cash in on a player they spent £62million on last January, but it would appear he has plenty of suitors should they do so.
Man Utd back in for De Jong
Saturday 17 December 2022 23:23 , Alex Young
When will they learn?
According to both the BBC and Manchester Evening News, Manchester United are ready for round two with Frenkie de Jong, and want to pair him with Jude Bellingham in the centre of their midfield.
The Barcelona midfielder - who made no signs of wanting to leave over the summer - remains a top target for Erik ten Hag after missing out on him over the summer.
Bellingham is a longer-term target after failing to sign him from Birmingham ahead of the player joining Borussia Dortmund two years ago.
Southgate staying put
Saturday 17 December 2022 21:06 , Alex Young
An interesting line on Gareth Southgate now, he is expected to stay on as England manager.
As reported by Standard Sport earlier this week, Southgate was considering stepping down from the role after England’s World Cup quarter-final exit.
Following England’s elimination, Southgate acknowledged a difficult preceding 18 months in the job - notably the booing him and his team were subjected to as they fell to a 4-0 home loss to Hungary in Wolverhampton earlier this year.
It is understood to have greatly affected Southgate, who was unwilling to continue beyond the World Cup without the backing of the England faithful.
Man United plot Griezmann swoop
Saturday 17 December 2022 12:04 , George Flood
Antoine Griezmann is a name featuring heavily in transfer dispatches today.
The Atletico Madrid star has enjoyed a prominent role for France in Qatar on their latest journey to a World Cup final, tormenting England in the semis when they largely shut down the threat of Kylian Mbappe.
Now Griezmann is being linked with a high-profile switch to the Premier League once again, with French outlet Mediafoot suggesting that Manchester United are considering a new swoop for the 31-year-old.
Griezmann almost joined United in the past... could this finally be the time for the transfer to happen?
Cristiano Ronaldo could ‘retire from football'
Saturday 17 December 2022 11:51 , George Flood
Cristiano Ronaldo’s future remains subject to fervent speculation, with the Portuguese superstar seemingly at somewhat of a late career crossroads after his nation’s agonising World Cup quarter-final exit (where he was benched).
He remains unattached at club level after that acrimonious early depature from Manchester United last month and has been training with former side Real Madrid this week in a bid to keep fit, with a rumoured big payday in Saudi Arabia still yet to officially materialise.
Now ex-United team-mate Patrice Evra has set tongues wagging by raising the prospect of his friend calling it quits altogether.
“When I have talked to him I haven't spoken about what he is going to do next," Evra told Sky Sports. "We have been talking more about life and family.
"But I don't know [what he will do next]. Messi is saying he will retire [from the World Cup], but I don't know if Ronaldo will retire, because, sometimes, when you are getting so much criticism, especially at the end of your career, you are like 'OK, I think it's time to stop'.
"That must be a feeling, especially when you are not in the starting XI of your national team, because that is what Cristiano wanted; to play, be fit and to win the World Cup with his country. This was his dream; now he doesn't have that dream.
"Although I won't talk for Cristiano, I wouldn't be surprised if he says he is retiring. Now everything Cristiano does he is a 'bad person', a 'bad player' or whatever. I wouldn't be surprised if he decides to retire."
Chelsea complete Nkunku deal
Saturday 17 December 2022 11:24 , George Flood
Chistopher Nkunku will be a Chelsea player this summer, reports have confirmed.
It was widely expected that the RB Leizpig and France forward would move to Stamford Bridge in the summer in a high-profile switch.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano reports that such a deal is now 100 per cent sealed on both the club and player sides, with all relevant documents and contracts signed.
Bundesliga top scorer Nkunku will move to Chelsea in July, amid speculation that the move could be brought forward with Graham Potter now light on strikers after Armando Broja’s season-ending knee injury.
Arsenal’s Saka fear eased
Friday 16 December 2022 23:02 , Marc Mayo
Manchester City could be forced into paying a mega fee for Bukayo Saka.
Pep Guardiola’s recent contract extension put the Arsenal winger and Jude Bellingham at the top of their transfer wishlist, according to 90min.
Saka’s contract expires in 2024 however football.london claim Arsenal can extend Saka’s contract by 12 months with an option on his existing deal, amid talks over a renewal.
With little risk of him leaving for free, the Gunners would be free to demand a huge price.
What next for Maatsen?
Friday 16 December 2022 22:39 , Marc Mayo
Chelsea youngster Ian Maatsen says he will decide on his future at the end of the season.
Currently enjoying a “perfect” loan spell at Burnley and tipped for a permanent stay, he told LancsLive: “We will see after the season finishes what I will do and what the options are.
“I am still keeping my options open but time will tell us. I came in with a plan for myself to give 100 per cent and show my dedication for my career, the Burnley fans and the club.
“It is going quite well and everyone has welcomed me and it is the perfect loan I would say.”
O’Hara wants Maguire on Tottenham radar
Friday 16 December 2022 22:15 , Marc Mayo
Tottenham have been urged to seal a cut-price deal for Harry Maguire.
Former Spurs player Jamie O’Hara believes Manchester United are destined to accept a low fee for the England star, opening the door for his old club.
“Manchester United are going to lose money,” he told talkSPORT.
“Say Spurs come in for him in January, I’d take him at Tottenham. We need a centre-half.”
Chelsea learn Rafael Leao fee
Friday 16 December 2022 22:05 , Marc Mayo
Chelsea will have to pay £70m to sign Rafael Leao in January.
Italian outlet Calciomercato name the fee AC Milan will demand while in contract talks with the Portuguese striker.
Dusan Vlahovic, Tammy Abraham and Cristiano Ronaldo are named as other potential targets in the Blues’ hunt for a striker.
Chelsea decide on loanee’s future
Friday 16 December 2022 21:31 , Marc Mayo
Callum Hudson-Odoi will continue on his loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen after Chelsea let a recall clause on his loan spell expire.
“We assumed that Callum would stay, but now we also have the certainty that he will stay with us,” Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes told Bild.
“We’re happy about that, because he’s a very important player for us.”
Amrabat to Spurs latest
Friday 16 December 2022 21:16 , Marc Mayo
A blow in Tottenham’s pursuit of Sofyan Amrabat.
La Gazzetta dello Sport detail Fiorentina’s plans to enact a one-year option on the Moroccan midfielder’s contract, taking it up to 2025.
The Italian club will seek around £30m for Amrabat in January with Liverpool joining Spurs in reportedly being interested.
Molina seen as Dumfries alternative for Chelsea
Friday 16 December 2022 20:47 , Marc Mayo
Chelsea are eyeing up Argentina’s World Cup star Nahuel Molina.
The right-back is seen as an alternative to Denzel Dumfries, who would cost £51m in January according to reports in Italy.
TMW report on Molina coming up on Chelsea’s radar, if they can convince Atletico Madrid to sell up.
Gunners chase Milinkovic-Savic bargain
Friday 16 December 2022 20:26 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal are ready to pay £70million to sign Sergej Milinkovic-Savic in January.
Corriere dello Sport claim the Gunners want to do a deal but the player is hesitant and would prefer to see out the season with Lazio, who want £86m for his services.
Milinkovic-Savic is reportedly open to leaving his club in the summer, at which point Arsenal would only want to pay £30m.
That is because his contract expires in the summer of 2024.
Spurs eye Argentina goalkeeper
Friday 16 December 2022 20:00 , Marc Mayo
Tottenham will consider a summer transfer bid for Emi Martinez.
The former Arsenal player has starred for Argentina at the World Cup after a move to Aston Villa in 2020.
Transfer journalist Dean Jones reckons Spurs have Martinez on their radar as a long-term replacement for Hugo Lloris.
Arsenal and Man United to face off for Felix
Friday 16 December 2022 19:41 , Marc Mayo
The race to sign Joao Felix is now between Arsenal and Manchester United.
The Gunners want a replacement for the injured Gabriel Jesus with United looking for Cristiano Ronaldo’s successor.
Spanish outlet AS say Atletico Madrid will only accept £86m (€100m) for the striker, which has warned Chelsea off a bid.
Chelsea serious in bid for teenage striker
Friday 16 December 2022 19:14 , Marc Mayo
More on Youssoufa Moukoko, who Chelsea are described as “seriously pushing” to sign.
The German international forward is said by Sky Sport Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg to want a decision on his future soon.
X News #Moukoko: Contract extension at BVB is NOT close as his agent confirms at Sky. Offer to less & NOT as reported between €5-6m. Much less! #CFC seriously pushing for him. There were concrete talks about numbers. Player wants a decision soon. @Sky_Marc @SkySportDE 🇩🇪 pic.twitter.com/1p7ynAM4kU
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) December 16, 2022
Moukoko still up for grabs
Friday 16 December 2022 18:49 , Marc Mayo
Reports that Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool target Youssoufa Moukoko is about to sign a new Borussia Dortmund contract have been DENIED.
Patrick Williams, the teenager’s agent, has told Sky Sports in Germany: “I can confirm that we are not about to conclude a contract extension with Borussia Dortmund.
“A player like Youssoufa is interesting for every top club in the world. Especially when he is free and has a future in the German national team.”
Chelsea battle Real Madrid for new Brazilian starlet
Friday 16 December 2022 18:26 , Marc Mayo
After missing out on Endrick, Vitor Roque is the latest Brazilian prodigy to enter Chelsea’s radar.
Real Madrid, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain have also scouted the 17-year-old forward, who has been compared to Neymar.
A fee of £86m is being demanded for the Athletico Paranaense player with his contract running to 2027.
Cristiano Ronaldo could RETIRE
Friday 16 December 2022 18:18 , Marc Mayo
Cristiano Ronaldo could quit football after being let go by Manchester United.
That is the view of former teammate Patrice Evra, who believes the end of Ronaldo’s World Cup dreams could lead to the end of his career entirely.
He told Sky Sports News: "Sometimes when you have got all of those critics, and especially at the end of your career, you are like, ‘Okay, I think it is time to stop’. Especially when you are not in the starting XI with your national team, because Cristiano wanted to play and to be fit.
"To win the World Cup with his country was his dream. Now he doesn't have that dream. I won't talk for Cristiano but I won't be surprised if he says 'I'll retire', because now everything Cristiano Ronaldo does - he's a bad person, he's a bad player whatever.
“I wouldn't be surprised if he decides to retire."
Manchester City keen on Bukayo Saka
Friday 16 December 2022 17:58 , Jonathan Gorrie
While Bukayo Saka is one of the leading players in the Premier League, the Arsenal forward saw his stock rise further at the World Cup.
As a result, 90 Min claim Manchester City are plotting a move for the Hale End academy graduate while a new deal in north London remains only a possibility.
PSG hopeful of keeping Lionel Messi
Friday 16 December 2022 17:43 , Jonathan Gorrie
PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has revealed the club are confident of keeping Lionel Messi.
The 35-year-old will see his contract in the French capital expire in the summer and is strongly linked with a move to MLS side Inter Miami.
Messi is gearing up for the World Cup final on Sunday but PSG hope to extend his stay by at least another year.
PSG president Al Khelaifi: “I confirm a thousand times that Leo Messi is very happy with PSG. I think he wants to stay”, tells @Rothensenflamme. 🚨🇦🇷 #PSG
“We will discuss after the World Cup”, he added. pic.twitter.com/fKeTpz0jDD— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 16, 2022
Liverpool dealt Jude Bellingham transfer blow
Friday 16 December 2022 17:16 , Jonathan Gorrie
Liverpool could struggle to sign Jude Bellingham this summer due to finances, according to transfer insider Gianluca Di Marzio.
The Reds are strongly linked with a move for the England star, who will not be short of suitors after impressing for England at the World Cup.
Still, with other more lucrative options around, Di Marzio suggests Liverpool could struggle to match them.
“In addition, Liverpool need a player like Bellingham, but the price tag makes it difficult to get a deal,” he told soccernews.nl.
Tottenham pushing ahead in Sofyan Amrabat
Friday 16 December 2022 17:02 , Jonathan Gorrie
Tottenham were keen on a move for Sofyan Amrabat during the January transfer window, though a move broke down when they instead signed Rodrigo Bentancur.
Now, the Morocco star has seen his stock rise after a series of impressive performances at the World Cup.
According to the Daily Mail, Spurs are prepared to renew their interest in the Fiorentina midfielder amid links with Liverpool and Barcelona.
How Julian Alvarez helped Arsenal and Chelsea land big transfers
Friday 16 December 2022 16:46 , Jonathan Gorrie
Gary Neville has claimed sources told him Manchester City sold Gabriel Jesus and Raheem Sterling because the Premier League champions had Julian Alvarez coming through.
The striker has impressed since his move from River Plate and is now gearing up for the World Cup final against France.
Jesus and Sterling were key players at City but Neville has revealed: “I was told a year ago when City let Jesus and Sterling go – because I was quite surprised that City let both go at the same time – that this kid [Alvarez] was the reason.”
Cristiano Ronaldo WAS a target for Newcastle
Friday 16 December 2022 16:24 , Jonathan Gorrie
Cristiano Ronaldo WAS a target for Newcastle United in January, according to noted transfer insider Gianluca Di Marzio.
The forward is a free agent after leaving Manchester United and has been strongly linked with a mega-money move to Saudi Arabia.
Di Marizo suggests there was a chance the 37-year-old could first move to St James’ Park before switching to the Middle East, although that idea did not get off the ground.
“Cristiano actually wanted to stay in Europe, but he has not received any concrete offers from European clubs,” he told soccernews.nl.
“Only from Newcastle, but the idea was that he could play there until June, then go to Al-Nassr. But I think that deal is done.”
Mudryk to Arsenal: What we know so far
Friday 16 December 2022 16:08 , Alex Young
Arsenal are already working hard on January transfer targets, with Shakhtar Donetsk star Mykhaylo Mudryk their priority signing.
Manager Mikel Arteta has been heavily backed throughout his tenure and he is not ready to rest on his laurels with a Premier League title win remarkably a realistic target.
A host of Europe’s best sides want the 21-year-old, who has come to the fore in this season’s Champions League, and the Gunners are leading the race, so here’s what we know so far.
City want Saka and Bellingham
Friday 16 December 2022 15:32 , Alex Young
Forget January, Manchester City are already planning for the summer and want to sign two of England's standout stars of the World Cup.
Pe Guardiola is keen to sign both Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka in a double deal which could surpass £250million.
90min claim there is some confidence in being able to pull off the coups with both players yet to commit their long-term futures to the club.
Sancho to Chelsea on loan?
Friday 16 December 2022 15:06 , Alex Young
Manchester United are weiging up loaning Jadon Sancho out in January, with Chelsea touted as a possible suitor.
According to TEAMtalk, the club hope new surroudings will help a player who is struggling for both form and fitness.
Since arriving in 2021, Sancho has failed to live up to his pricetag under three different managers - Gunnar Solskjaer, Ralf Rangnick and now Erik ten Hag - and a temporary move is being considered.
Liverpool is Amrabat’s choice
Friday 16 December 2022 14:36 , Alex Young
The battle for Amrabat continues to build.
Liverpool appear to be leading the race, and talks reportedly already taking place, and respected Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio believes the player's agency will now push for a move to Anfield.
“I think Amrabat’s agency, Stellar, is going to make an attempt to bring him to Liverpool in the Premier League,” Di Marzio told Soccer News.
“Everyone sees something in that, it would be the agency’s dream as well as that of the player in question.”
‘Joao Felix would be perfect for Potter and Chelsea'
Friday 16 December 2022 14:10 , Alex Young
Joao Felix would be a perfect signing for Graham Potter's Chelsea, according to former Blues defender Glen Johnson.
“The way Graham Potter wants to play football will suit Joao Felix down to the ground in terms of getting on the ball as he’s a very good footballer that needs players around him," Johnson told The Games Cabin.
"He’s a luxury player that requires freedom and he needs a manager that allows him to do that. If Atletico want anywhere near the £113 million they paid for him then that’s a bloody lot of money. I certainly like him as a player but he needs to play in a front three.”
Busquets retires from Spain duty
Friday 16 December 2022 13:55 , Alex Young
Not quite transfer news but notable nonetheless as Sergio Busquets has retired from international duty.
The 34-year-old, who also won the 2012 European Championship, is ending his Spain career after 143 appearances, the Spanish national team said Friday. Only Sergio Ramos (180) and Iker Casillas (167) played more games for Spain.
It marks the end of an era for Spain, as the Barcelona defensive midfielder was the only remaining member of the World Cup-winning team from South Africa who was still playing for his country.
Ten Hag keen on Dumfries
Friday 16 December 2022 13:38 , Matt Verri
Manchester United are believed to have made contact with Inter Milan over a move for Denzel Dumfries.
Erik ten Hag is keen to add a right-back option to his squad and has asked United to push for Dumfries, according to Corriere dello Sport.
While Diogo Dalot has been a regular in the side this season, it’s suggested Ten Hag feels there is not enough competition in that area.
West Ham to move on from Jones
Friday 16 December 2022 13:14 , Matt Verri
West Ham are reportedly ready to give up on their interest in Isaiah Jones.
The Hammers have been keen on the Middlesbrough wing-back, who has three goals and three assists in the Championship so far this season.
However, according to Football League World, Middlesbrough have made it clear they have no interest in selling the 23-year-old, forcing West Ham to look elsewhere.
Pulisic: Things change quickly in football
Friday 16 December 2022 12:46 , Matt Verri
Christian Pulisic has been discussing his future, with his comments not ruling out a move away from Chelsea in the future.
The 24-year-old has made just three Premier League starts for the Blues this season, and has been linked with a move to Newcastle and even a shock loan switch to Liverpool
“I mean, right now I’m absolutely back at Chelsea and focused and ready to finish the season, but you know how things work in football,” Pulisic told the Indirect Podcast.
“Things change quickly and anything can happen.
“At the moment I am just pushing myself in training and working at Chelsea because that’s where I am right now.”
Milinkovic-Savic linked with Arsenal move
Friday 16 December 2022 12:22 , Matt Verri
Arsenal are reportedly leading the race for Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
The Lazio midfield, involved at the World Cup with Serbia, has regularly been linked with a Premier League move over the years, so it’s no surprise to see his name crop up once again with the January window fast approaching.
The 27-year-old has 18 months left on his current contract, with Gazzetta dello Sport claiming that Milinkovic-Savic does not want to renew his Lazio deal.
It’s also claimed that the valuation is as low as it has been in a long time, potentially in the region of £43m, with Arsenal more likely than other Premier League clubs to get a deal over the line.
Neville: Ronaldo ‘magnet for trouble’ on the bench
Friday 16 December 2022 12:04 , Matt Verri
Gary Neville has backed Cristiano Ronaldo to stay in the Premier League following his exit from Manchester United.
Standard Sport understand the 37-year-old is waiting to see if a Champions League-level club emerge as a viable destination despite a money-spinning offer from Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr.
“Seeing him on the bench is almost like a magnet for trouble for the club he’s playing for, because the focus becomes the player who’s not on the pitch, rather than the players who are playing,” he told Sky Sports.
“I hope he can find a club in the major leagues, even the Premier League, I’d love him to stay in the Premier League at a club that can have him up front and we can watch him every week because that’s what we want to see, we want to see him playing.”
Min-jae: Transfer links disturb me
Friday 16 December 2022 11:45 , Matt Verri
Kim Min-jae has downplayed talk of him making a move to the Premier League in January.
The 26-year-old has been an important part of Napoli’s flying start to the season, arriving from Fenerbahce for £16m in the summer.
Reports suggest Manchester United and Tottenham are keeping tabs on the centre-back and are already exploring the possibility of bringing him to England, but Min-jae has little interest in that.
“There are a lot of transfer stories around me, but I’ve only been at Napoli for six months,’ Min-jae told You Quiz on the Block.
“I’ve avoided interviews, and one of the reasons is that the rumours about me disturb me.”
Premier League battle for Kudus
Friday 16 December 2022 11:25 , Matt Verri
Ajax star Mohammed Kudus could soon be making a move to the Premier League, after further enhancing his reputation at the World Cup.
The 22-year-old scored twice in Ghana’s win over South Korea, which came after he shone in the Champions League group stage earlier this season with four goals and two assists for his club.
Everton were close to signing Kudus in the summer, with the player himself revealing he was keen on the move, and Ghanaian journalist Gary Al-Smith claims that the Toffees remain in pole position.
However, it’s also suggested that Tottenham are very keen on him, along with one other unnamed Premier League club.
Liverpool learn Enzo Fernandez asking price
Friday 16 December 2022 11:09 , George Flood
Jude Bellingham is not the only midfielder reportedly on Liverpool’s transfer radar.
The Reds have also been heavily linked with a swoop for fellow World Cup star Enzo Fernandez, who has impressed during Argentina’s journey to the final in Qatar.
However, Liverpool are certainly not alone in their admiration for the gifted 21-year-old playmaker, who only swapped River Plate for Benfica over the summer.
And Fernandez certainly won’t come cheap, with the latest reports from 90min.com claiming that the Portuguese giants will demand that his €120m release clause is met in full should he leave in January.
Arsenal to be offered Vlahovic swap deal
Friday 16 December 2022 10:36 , George Flood
Dusan Vlahovic is once again being linked with a move to Arsenal.
The Gunners tirelessly pursued the Serbian striker over the summer, only for him to leave Fiorentina for Serie A rivals Juventus in a deal worth £66m.
Arsenal of course ended up with Gabriel Jesus, who has been inspired but could miss the next three months after surgery on a knee injury suffered at the World Cup with Brazil.
Vlahovic has netted seven goals in 15 appearances across all competitions since then, though his future with the Bianconeri is already in doubt amid their well-documented off-field issues.
Calciomercato report that Juve could make a play for centre-back Gabriel plus €40m as part of a January package from Arsenal for the 22-year-old.
Liverpool transfer ‘a dream’ for Bellingham
Friday 16 December 2022 10:01 , George Flood
Liverpool appear to have been offered more encouragement in their pursuit of Jude Bellingham.
The Reds have long been considered frontrunners in the crowded battle to land England’s World Cup sensation and one of the most highly-rated midfield talents in Europe.
However, the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have also been linked with his services, among others.
According to Italian transfer specialist Gianluca Di Marzio, Bellingham would see a potential switch to Anfield as a “dream”, though Liverpool face a hefty fee of between £85m and £130m to prise the ex-Birmingham teenager away from Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund.
ICYMI - Chelsea offered Felix and Cunha amid Depay option
Friday 16 December 2022 09:38 , George Flood
You may also have missed this cracking story from Standard Sport’s Nizaar Kinsella on Chelsea’s new striker search, which features Joao Felix, Matheus Cunha and Memphis Depay, among others...
Chelsea have been offered the chance to sign Joao Felix and Matheus Cunha by Atletico Madrid as they ponder whether to bring in a new striker in the January transfer window.
The Blues could look to sign another forward after losing Armando Broja to a serious knee injury. They are interested in Borussia Dortmund striker Youssoufa Moukoko, while Barcelona forward Memphis Depay is also an option.
Broja has been ruled out for the rest of the season after he ruptured an anterior cruciate ligament during a friendly against Aston Villa in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.
Chelsea will explore both short and long-term options in January, with just Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Kai Havertz available to lead their attack in the second half of the season.
They have agreed a £52.7m deal to sign RB Leipzig forward Christopher Nkunku next summer, which complicates their options next month. Chelsea were offered the chance to sign Felix for £86m before they lost Broja to injury.
ICYMI - Chelsea set to make Fofana first January signing
Friday 16 December 2022 09:20 , George Flood
And here’s where things are in terms of Chelsea’s expected first signing that broke yesterday, courtesy of Standard Sport’s Blues correspondent Nizaar Kinsella...
Chelsea are in advanced talks to sign David Datro Fofana in an £8.6m deal from Molde.
The 19-year-old is still discussing personal terms with the Blues but all parties believe the deal will ultimately now be completed.
The Ivory Coast international will likely be signed as a prospect for the future rather than as a direct replacement for Armando Broja, whose season is over after a long-term knee injury in a friendly with Aston Villa.
It leaves open the possibility that Fofana signs and immediately leaves on loan, opening up room for another January signing in attack.
Graham Potter is a long-term admirer of Fofana having scouted the youngster while in charge of Brighton.
ICYMI - Arsenal open talks over Mudryk deal
Friday 16 December 2022 09:00 , George Flood
Speaking of Arsenal - here’s a reminder of exactly where we stand on the Mykhaylo Mudryk front, per Standard Sport correspondent Simon Collings...
Arsenal have opened talks with Shakhtar Donetsk over a deal for Ukraine winger Mykhaylo Mudryk.
The Gunners have made signing a new wide forward a priority in the January transfer window and are prepared to back Mikel Arteta to help maintain their title push.
Premier League leaders Arsenal have been tracking Mudryk since the summer and have now entered negotiations with Shakhtar in the hope a deal can be struck.
Shakhtar value the 21-year-old at £85million but it is thought they could soften their stance. Arsenal wanted to sign a wide forward during the summer and they looked at Pedro Neto of Wolves.
The need for more firepower in attack has increased because striker Gabriel Jesus is facing three months out after knee surgery.
Shakhtar are reluctant to sell Mudryk next month as they are aiming to win the Ukrainian top-flight, which would secure qualification to the Champions League. They want their star winger help them achieve that goal and then assess his options next summer.
Arsenal urged to sign Morocco World Cup stars
Friday 16 December 2022 08:51 , George Flood
We spoke earlier of Morocco duo Sofyan Amrabat and Azzedine Ounahi, who have both become very in-demand after helping the Atlas Lions become the first African nation ever to reach a World Cup semi-final in Qatar.
Premier League interest is mounting considerably in both midfielders, with Arsenal legend Ray Parlour urging his former club to swoop for both in January.
“Ounahi, the No.8, he is different class,” he said on talkSPORT.
“Would I take him at Arsenal? Definitely. With that performance and what I’ve seen of him in this tournament, he’s not fazed by big games, the biggest game for his country maybe ever.
“He just looked so comfortable, he was always on the half-turn and looking to probe and try to get balls in behind the full-backs.”
“Amrabat, he’s a player, too. If I was Arsenal, I’d be looking at him. Central midfield, he can get his foot in. A very good player.”
Cristiano Ronaldo future update
Friday 16 December 2022 08:40 , George Flood
Cristiano Ronaldo’s future remains subject to fervent speculation following Portugal’s World Cup departure and his acrimonious exit from Manchester United.
The Portuguese superstar trained - on a separate pitch away from the first team - with former club Real Madrid for the second straight day on Thursday, though the prospect of him making a sensational return to the Bernabeu is very slim indeed.
Instead, a big-money switch to Saudi Arabia seems to remain the most likely path for Ronaldo.
Al Nassr were considered the frontrunners, though the club’s president appears uncertain.
“Cristiano was busy recently with the World Cup and I didn’t expect him to negotiate with anyone”, he told SSC Sports.
“We will not speak about other players, I wish the best to Cristiano with any decision.”
Arsenal and Tottenham on red alert over Isco
Friday 16 December 2022 08:15 , George Flood
Arsenal and Tottenham are said to have been placed on red alert over Sevilla midfielder Isco.
The Spaniard is only in his first season of a two-year contract at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium after leaving LaLiga rivals Real Madrid on a free transfer in the summer.
However, Spanish outlet Marca suggest that an exit could already be brewing for Isco after the departure of former boss Julen Lopetegui and a clash with director of football Monchi.
Both Arsenal and Spurs would reportedly have interest in Isco if he were to move again so soon, while a reunion with Lopetegui at Wolves could also be an option.
Chelsea to make new Rafael Leao push
Friday 16 December 2022 08:01 , George Flood
Chelsea look set to make another push for Rafael Leao, reports suggest.
The AC Milan forward has long been on the transfer radar in west London and he continues to go from strength to strength in Serie A.
Chelsea’s need for a new striker in January is obvious after Armando Broja suffered a season-ending knee injury in the friendly against Aston Villa last week, with scores of players already linked including Joao Felix, Matheus Cunha, Cristiano Ronaldo, Memphis Depay, Youssoufa Moukoko and others.
According to GiveMeSport and transfer insider Dean Jones, the Blues are now frontrunners again for Portugal international Leao and sense “something can be done” in January.
Tottenham to outbid Liverpool for Amrabat
Friday 16 December 2022 07:41 , George Flood
A number of Morocco players are unsurprisingly being linked with big-money moves to the Premier League after their fairytale run to the World Cup semi-finals.
While Azzedine Ounahi appears to have a long list of admirers, the same can certainly be said of fellow midfielder Sofyan Amrabat.
The Fiorentina man was arguably his country’s top performer in Qatar, attracting interest from the likes of Liverpool, Tottenham, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid along the way.
According to Italian outlet La Repubblica, Spurs are prepared to outbid their rivals and stump up more than £50m to sign Amrabat in January.
However, they face a tough test amid suggestions that the 26-year-old’s camp have already met with Jurgen Klopp and his agency apparently have designs on Anfield.
Arsenal and Chelsea set for Joao Felix blow
Friday 16 December 2022 07:32 , George Flood
Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United look set for disappointment in their pursuit of Joao Felix.
Those are just three of the clubs linked with a move for the Portuguese striker, who is available in January after falling out with Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone.
However, transfer specialist Gianluca Di Marzio has shot down Arsenal’s prospects in particular, believing Felix wants to join PSG, where he could end up as the long-term successor to a certain Lionel Messi.
“Arsenal certainly not, because he wants to play for Paris Saint-Germain,” he said. “Atletico Madrid just don’t want to lose him at all and they are asking 130-140 million euros for him.
“Paris Saint-Germain would be a logical choice if he does leave Atletico. After all, there are not that many clubs that can afford to pay him and PSG are interested in young players for the future. So that they can absorb a departure from Mbappe or Neymar or so that they have a replacement when Messi’s contract expires.”
Arsenal lead race for Mudryk
Thursday 15 December 2022 22:56 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal are in pole position to land Mykhaylo Mudryk in January.
Transfer journalist Gianluca Di Marzio has described the Gunners as leading the race after AC Milan dropped out, having been outpriced in the deal.
He named a fee of merely £30m for the Ukrainian winger though, despite Shakhtar Donetsk’s believed demands of £85m.
Ounahi tipped for Arsenal switch
Thursday 15 December 2022 22:30 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal have been urged to swoop for two stars of the World Cup.
Morocco’s Azzedine Ounahi and Sofyan Amrabat have impressed in Qatar and Ray Parlour would take both in north London.
He told talkSPORT: “Ounahi, the No8, he is different class. Would I take him at Arsenal? Definitely!
“He just looked so comfortable, he was always on the half-turn and looking to probe and try to get balls in behind the full-backs.
“Amrabat, he's a player, too. If I was Arsenal I'd be looking at him. Central midfield, he can get his foot in. A very good player.”
Pay Mount to sign Rice, Chelsea told
Thursday 15 December 2022 22:17 , Marc Mayo
Chelsea may have to meet Mason Mount’s demands if they are serious about one day signing Declan Rice.
A whopping £300,000-a-week contract is reportedly being demanded by the Blues academy product with talks ongoing over a new deal.
Glen Johnson has urged Chelsea to pay up so Mount can help them secure best mate Rice, saying: “Obviously he’s a good player and Chelsea won’t want to lose him but you can’t be held hostage to anyone.
“I can’t imagine he’s the sort of lad that would down tools if he doesn’t get £300,000-a-week. He doesn’t seem like that sort of fella.
“So I think they’ll come to an arrangement eventually. Chelsea may have to keep Mount tactically if they do want to sign Declan Rice as well.”
Tottenham back in for Amrabat
Thursday 15 December 2022 22:02 , Marc Mayo
Tottenham are ready to do a deal for Moroccan World Cup star Sofyan Amrabat.
The Fiorentina midfielder was a target for a loan move before Rodrigo Bentancur signed last year.
La Repubblica say Amrabat is available for a January transfer… but at the inflated price of £43.5m.
Arsenal to miss out as Joao Felix lined up to replace Messi
Thursday 15 December 2022 21:43 , Marc Mayo
Joao Felix will turn down Chelsea and Arsenal in January.
According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, a move to Paris Saint-Germain is his priority.
Felix could be a long-term replacement for Lionel Messi, who is out of contract in the summer.
New bidder for Moukoko
Thursday 15 December 2022 21:16 , Marc Mayo
Barcelona have entered the running to sign Youssoufa Moukoko.
Reports in Germany claim Borussia Dortmund are closing in on signing the German striker, 18, up to a new contract ahead of his deal expiring in June.
Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United have all been linked with Moukoko.
But Sport claim Barcelona want to beat them to a deal, but only as a free transfer amid their rivals’ plans to pay a fee to sign him in January.
Joao Felix fee named
Thursday 15 December 2022 20:51 , Marc Mayo
Atletico Madrid want £86million for Joao Felix in January.
The Portuguese striker is said to be available for a transfer with Chelsea, Arsenal and many others keen on a deal.
But Manchester United could be ahead in the queue, according to AS, as Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit has freed up a big chunk of wages.
Chelsea plan for Fofana
Thursday 15 December 2022 20:29 , Marc Mayo
Chelsea are set to send David Fofana on loan once he completes his £8.6m transfer to the club.
At only 19, the Molde forward is in advanced talks to join the Blues as their first January deal.
Down as one for the future, Standard Sport understand a quick move away to gain more first-team experience will be Fofana’s immediate agenda as a Chelsea player.
David Datro Fofana is expected to join Chelsea for £8.6m but interesting to see what the plan will be.
Hearing that he might go straight out on loan leaving room for another temporary option up front.
Deal not done but advanced: https://t.co/SG3IthplC8 #CFC— Nizaar Kinsella (@NizaarKinsella) December 15, 2022
Chelsea set to miss out on Dumfries
Thursday 15 December 2022 20:10 , Marc Mayo
Chelsea’s chances of landing Denzel Dumfries may have passed.
TMW report on Inter Milan doubling their price tag on the Dutch wing-back since their summer interest in him.
Chelsea will now have to fork out over £50m if they want to sign Dumfries in January.
Bono in demand
Thursday 15 December 2022 19:44 , Marc Mayo
Sevilla want £26m for Morocco World Cup hero Yassine Bounou.
Local outlet Estadio Deportivo has named the goalkeeper as a potential candidate to replace Manuel Neuer at Bayern Munich.
Aston Villa are also named as keen while Manchester United were previously interested.
Vlahovic back on the menu
Thursday 15 December 2022 19:15 , Marc Mayo
Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal are all in the hunt for Dusan Vlahovic.
The Juventus striker is not thought to be available for a January deal but reports in Italy suggest his agent is gauging interest in a fresh move.
Corriere dello Sport report on Bayern Munich and PSG also taking an interest in Vlahovic.
Arsenal back in for Milinkovic-Savic
Thursday 15 December 2022 18:48 , Marc Mayo
Arsenal are making fresh enquiries over Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
That is according to Revelo, who claim the Serbian will refuse to sign a contract extension past his current 2024 expiry date - leaving his club with little option but to cash in.
Lazio have previously sought over £80m for Milinkovic-Savic but it is said that a fee as low as £35m will be accepted in the summer.
Chelsea and Juventus are also reportedly monitoring the situation while the player’s dream move, to Real Madrid, does not look likely.
Mudryk to Arsenal latest
Thursday 15 December 2022 18:36 , Marc Mayo
Shakhtar Donetsk president Rinat Akhmetov will be the man who decides on Mykhaylo Mudryk’s transfer future.
The Mail report on Shakhtar’s plans for the winger, who is attracting interest from Arsenal plus a number of other clubs.
It is said Akhmetov will sit down and make the call on Mudryk’s next club when formal transfer bids arrive on his desk - with none at this moment in time,
Real Madrid will not re-sign Cristiano Ronaldo
Thursday 15 December 2022 18:27 , Marc Mayo
Reports emerged yesterday that Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to Real Madrid to maintain his training programme while looking for a new club.
Now we have news from Marca which highlights the certainty that Los Blancos will not be signing the veteran back to their squad.
An offer from Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr remains on the table but Ronaldo is waiting for a top European club to make him a deal.
Chelsea face tough January transfer balancing act as new ‘think tank’ get to work on striker search
Thursday 15 December 2022 18:00 , Jonathan Gorrie
Chelsea co-owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali have been busy since the Premier League stopped, using the break to take opportune meetings with agents in Qatar.
They knew the World Cup was a unique opportunity to meet the biggest and most important agents in football as they map out their future transfer business.
Paul Winstanley, who has just arrived at Chelsea from Brighton as the new head of recruitment, has joined Boehly and Eghbali in the Middle East.
The January transfer window could be key for Chelsea, who lost four of their last five games before the World Cup and are in danger of missing out on Champions League qualification.
Daley Blind hits out at transfer rumours
Thursday 15 December 2022 17:29 , Jonathan Gorrie
The Ajax defender has been linked with a move away from the Dutch giants in January, with Royal Antwerp have been linked.
Blind, however, hit out at such reports.
Zo jammer maar typisch dat dit binnen een dag bij de ‘media’ ligt. Het is ook nog eens een verkeerde afspiegeling van zaken. Zucht..
— Daley Blind (@BlindDaley) December 15, 2022
Chelsea on brink of signing David Fofana in £8.6m with Graham Potter a long-term fan of teenage striker
Thursday 15 December 2022 17:09 , Jonathan Gorrie
Chelsea are in advanced talks to sign David Datro Fofana in an £8.6million deal from Molde, writes Nizaar Kinsella.
The 19-year-old is still discussing personal terms with the Blues but all parties believe the deal will ultimately now be completed.
The Ivory Coast international will likely be signed as a prospect for the future rather than as a direct replacement for Armando Broja, whose season is over after a long-term knee injury in a friendly with Aston Villa.
Assessing Arsenals’ potential transfer options
Thursday 15 December 2022 17:02 , Jonathan Gorrie
Should Arsenal want to go into the transfer market, there are strikers available, writes Simon Collings.
Memphis Depay has six months left on his contract at Barcelona and can leave next month, while Lille’s Jonathan David and Atletico Madrid’s Joao Felix have previously been scouted.
Tottenham hopeful Antonio Conte will sign new contract ahead of fresh talks this week
Thursday 15 December 2022 16:35 , Jonathan Gorrie
Tottenham are set for a round of contract talks with Antonio Conte this week as they bid to tie the Italian down to a new long-term deal.
Conte’s current contract expires at the end of the season and Spurs have scheduled fresh discussions with chairman Daniel Levy and managing director Fabio Paratici.
There is optimism that Conte is happy at Tottenham and will commit his long-term future to the club.
But Conte is set to want assurances over plans for the January transfer window as he targets a top-four finish and a deep run in the Champions League in the second half of the season.
Who is David Datro Fofana? ‘Dream’ Chelsea transfer imminent for striker who idolises Didier Drogba
Thursday 15 December 2022 15:52 , Jonathan Gorrie
Chelsea are reportedly set to sign Molde forward David Datro Fofana.
The Blues have hugely increased the investment in their academy team since the Boehly-Clearlake Capital takeover in the summer, spending over £30million on the likes of Cesare Casadei and Carney Chukwuemeka.
Billed as ‘Vision 2030’, the strategy is to create a teenage side below the first team to plug gaps when needed, with the view of a long-term succession plan at Stamford Bridge.
19-year-old Fofana, who made his senior international debut for the Ivory Coast at the age of just 16, moved to Norwegian outfit Molde last year on a four-year contract from Ivorian club AFAD, based in the economic capital and largest city Abidjan.
Leon King signs new Rangers contract
Thursday 15 December 2022 15:25 , Jonathan Gorrie
Highly-rated Rangers Leon King has been linked with a number of Premier League sides.
Newcastle United and Everton were strongly touted as potential landing spots, such is the level of excitement in the player.
Still, Rangers have now announced the player has signed a new four-year deal at Ibrox.
💙 #RangersFC are today delighted to announce @RFC_Youth Academy graduate @Leon_king04 has agreed a new, long-term deal with the club.
All the info 👇— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) December 15, 2022
Forget Endrick: Chelsea close to signing £12m Andrey Santos
Thursday 15 December 2022 15:07 , Jonathan Gorrie
Never fear, Chelsea fans!
Despite Endrick signing for Real Madrid, Standard Sport understands Chelsea will sign another Brazilian youngster.
18-year-old Vasco de Gama midfielder Andrey Santos is set for a £12m move despite interest from PSG.
Mykhaylo Mudryk open to Arsenal transfer
Thursday 15 December 2022 14:53 , Jonathan Gorrie
Standard Sport understand Mykhaylo Mudryk is open to joining Arsenal in January.
Following the injury to Gabriel Jesus, the club are tracking a move for the Shakhtar Donetsk winger and have opened over a January deal.
Still, the 21-year-old is unlikely to try and force a move away at this stage.
Endrick: Real Madrid complete signing of Chelsea target in deal worth up to £62m
Thursday 15 December 2022 14:33 , Jonathan Gorrie
Real Madrid have completed the signing of Brazilian sensation Endrick.
The 16-year-old wonderkid will leave current club Palmeiras in the summer of 2024 and Standard Sport understands the deal is worth an initial £53m, with a further £9m to be paid through various add-ons.
Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain both held extensive talks to sign the teenager, who was invited to their respective training facilities.
Thiago Silva was even involved in talks to sign Endrick, though Madrid have ultimately won out.
Erik ten Hag pushing for Denzel Dumfries
Thursday 15 December 2022 14:06 , Jonathan Gorrie
Denzel Dumfries was one of the players to have seen his stock rise at the World Cup.
The Netherlands star has previously been of interest to Chelsea so is certainly no stranger to transfer rumours and Inter Milan could be willing to entertain a sale.
According to Sky Germany, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is personally pushing the club to sign him as United bid to strengthen at right-back.
Endrick completes move to Real Madrid
Thursday 15 December 2022 13:40 , Jonathan Gorrie
Although Chelsea tried to sign Brazilian wonderkid Endrick, Real Madrid have won the race.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the teenager has now signed his contract ahead of a move in 2024.
Excl: Endrick, new Real Madrid player! Contracts and documents have been signed in last 24h. Deal can now be considered sealed. 🚨🚨⚪️🇧🇷 #RealMadrid
Endrick will join Real Madrid in June 2024. Contract will be until 2027 plus three years option, so 2030.
Here we go confirmed. pic.twitter.com/1pXCZyTgsG— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 15, 2022
Everton braced for England interest in Frank Lampard
Thursday 15 December 2022 13:30 , Jonathan Gorrie
With Gareth Southgate’s long-term future as England up for debate, attentions are turning to potential replacments.
While the FA are believed to be willing to consider a foreign manager, plenty of homegrown names have been linked.
According to Football Insider, figures inside Everton are bracing themselves for interest in Frank Lampard, who has long been touted as an option.
Al-Nassr make public Cristiano Ronaldo transfer admission
Thursday 15 December 2022 13:09 , Jonathan Gorrie
Though Standard Sport understand Cristiano Ronaldo is waiting to see whether or not a Champions League-level club emerges as a viable destination, Al-Nassr have made their position clear.
With a huge offer on the table, manager Rudi Garcia has broken the club’s silence.
He said: “"I think that any coach would be delighted to train a great star like Cristiano and already in November 2021 I was very close to going to United..
"They chose Ralf Rangnick, but I met twice with John Murtough and Darren Fletcher [United’s director of football and technical director respectively].
"I came very close to coaching this club and was very motivated to go, who wouldn’t be motivated to coach United? Any coach. United’s simple interest has allowed me to be sure of my ambitions in the future.
"I have always thought that the great players are the easiest to manage because they are very intelligent, I verified this with Francesco Totti at Roma."
Chelsea told not to overpay for Mason Mount’s new deal
Thursday 15 December 2022 12:46 , Jonathan Gorrie
Glen Johnson has told Chelsea not to overpay for Mason Mount.
The midfielder is still in talks over a new contract, though nothing has yet materialised and the England star’s current deal will expire in 2024.
Still, important as he is in West London, Johnson said: “I don’t think he’s got to the level to demand £300,000-a-week.
“Obviously he’s a good player and Chelsea won’t want to lose him but you can’t be held hostage to anyone. I can’t imagine he’s the sort of lad that would down tools if he doesn’t get £300,000-a-week.
“He doesn’t seem like that sort of fella. I don’t believe that’s true, so I think they’ll come to an arrangement eventually.
“Chelsea may have to keep Mount tactically if they do want to sign Declan Rice as well.”
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