Top European Clubs Chase Key Players

Manchester United are preparing a possible transfer move for Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde, as several top European clubs chase major signings ahead of upcoming transfer windows.

Manchester United are exploring the possibility of signing Real Madrid star Federico Valverde, according to The Daily Mirror. The club is reportedly interested after a “bust-up” between the 27-year-old midfielder and manager Xabi Alonso. United are believed to be considering an offer of around €80 million.

However, this amount is not expected to satisfy Real Madrid. Valverde is tied to a contract that runs until the summer of 2029, and the club’s management is insisting on a fee above €100 million before they even consider selling him.

Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain are monitoring the situation of Marcus Rashford, who is currently on loan at Barcelona from Manchester United. According to Football Insider, the Spanish club are favourites to sign him permanently because they can activate a €35 million release clause included in the loan deal.

Rashford, now 28, has been in good form at Camp Nou, scoring six goals and assisting seven more in just 18 matches since joining in the summer. Even so, PSG are watching closely and could make a move if Barcelona decide not to trigger the clause.

In England, several Premier League clubs are keeping an eye on Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye. Footmercato reports that Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur have already made early enquiries about the 25-year-old attacker. Ndiaye joined Everton from Marseille in 2024 for around €20 million and has impressed this season with four goals in 13 league games. All three clubs see him as a potential attacking reinforcement either in January or in the next summer transfer window.

Across Europe, Bayern Munich and Barcelona are following the progress of Santos full-back Souza. The young Brazilian, who is only 19, has drawn comparisons to legendary Real Madrid and Brazil defender Marcelo because of his style of play. According to Diario AS, Barcelona have been interested in him since the summer, during which he was also linked with Chelsea. Reports say that a €15 million offer could be enough to sign him, but Santos are not willing to negotiate until the end of the season.

Aston Villa are also active in the market. The Daily Mirror reports that the club is preparing a move for Brentford striker Igor Thiago. The 24-year-old has been identified as a potential long-term replacement for Ollie Watkins. Unai Emery is reportedly hopeful that Villa will approve a £50 million bid. Thiago has been in strong form this season, scoring his eleventh Premier League goal after netting twice in Brentford’s recent 3-1 win over Burnley.

Other Transfer Rumours

Barcelona may switch their attention to Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez if Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane does not activate his €65 million release clause in the summer.

Benfica are considering making a January move for Bayern Munich left-back Raphael Guerreiro.

The €50 million release clause for Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy will only be available in the summer, and only to top European clubs including Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Arsenal.

Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton will only consider joining Manchester United if they qualify for the Champions League next season. Despite this condition, United still believe they can secure his signing.

Juventus are keeping an eye on Atalanta midfielder Ederson as they aim to strengthen their midfield during the January window.

Roma want to sign Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee on loan in January but would only accept a permanent option worth £20 million.

Liverpool have made progress toward agreeing on a contract extension with defender Ibrahima Konate, while Real Madrid explore several transfer options.

Nottingham Forest will reject any attempts to sign Brighton midfielder Jack Hinshelwood.

Several clubs, including Atalanta, Eintracht Frankfurt, Crystal Palace, and Fulham, are interested in signing Watford winger Rocco Vata, who is valued at around £20 million.

Crystal Palace are also considering a move for Newcastle midfielder Joe Willock.

Al Hilal will reject any offers from European clubs for forward Marcos Leonardo.

In Italy, Inter Milan and Napoli have joined Juventus in pursuing Atalanta wing-back Marco Palestra, who is currently on loan at Cagliari.

Source: ESPN Sports