Despite the reports that Ronaldo is being shopped to a number of top clubs, the Brazilian remains on United’s books despite less than a year at Old Trafford. Junior Pedroso and Ajax’s Antony have been touted as potential replacements, but it is Antony’s PS68m asking price that is the sticking point. The problem is that United need to replace Ronaldo, but they have no other options. Also, the Portuguese is ailing and not a full match fit yet, and a deal may not be reached until next season.
Frenkie de Jong is a target for Manchester United
The Dutch midfielder is one of the top targets for Manchester United, but he is not yet a United target. United have been chasing the Dutch international for a while, but haven’t made a move yet. They have already rejected one bid for the midfielder and now believe that Barcelona are willing to sell for less. If that happens, it will relieve some of the pressure on chief executive Richard Arnold, as he must find a replacement for the Belgian.
However, they are concerned that Barcelona may be able to recoup some of their PS24million debt in the short term. While Barcelona agreed to cover the shortfall during the pandemic, they want Manchester United to pay up. Meanwhile, the Nou Camp bosses have splashed out on new players including Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski. They have also taken on the wages of free agents. This situation has left De Jong increasingly frustrated, and he has already expressed his displeasure with Manchester United’s management.
Man Utd are keen to sign the Dutch midfielder. They are also interested in Ruben Neves and Youri Tielemans, but both want to stay at Barcelona. Frenkie de Jong’s desire to move to Old Trafford is an issue, but Manchester United remain convinced of signing him. While the Dutch international is happy in Barcelona, he’s still keen to move to a bigger club.
Arsenal and Chelsea are interested in signing Gabriel Jesus
Reports have surfaced that Chelsea and Arsenal are keen on bringing Jesus to Stamford Bridge to replace Romelu Lukaku. The forward has been linked with a move away from Manchester City, but the Gunners have beaten both sides to the striker’s signature. It’s thought that Jesus has a relationship with Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta. Arsenal are keen to sign Jesus for the first time in his career, but Chelsea have a higher price tag.
The move would bring the striker to two of the top Premier League clubs and bolster their attacking options. Chelsea have been linked with the player in recent weeks, while Arsenal have been keen on signing the RB Leipzig star for years. Manchester United have also been keen on Nkunku. Both Chelsea and Arsenal are looking to sign a striker is the top priority. Arsenal have been in the market for reinforcements up top after losing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette, and the club would need an attacking player who can strike from range and make them dangerous.
In other news, Manchester City have reduced their price for Gabriel Jesus, and both Arsenal and Chelsea are confident of securing the forward’s services. In addition to signing Gabriel Jesus, Arsenal have also been linked with Youri Tielemans, who has two years left on his contract at the Emirates. Meanwhile, Liverpool and Barcelona have both been linked with the Brazilian, and his agent has repeatedly discussed a move away from the Emirates.
Manchester City are keen on signing Kalvin Phillips
The midfielder has been linked with a move to Manchester City, but the Red Devils are also interested. Phillips’ current contract at Leeds United has a release clause of PS25 million, which means that the club can make a big move. Manchester City are keen to sign a defender to complement the depth of their midfield. If a Manchester City move is completed, Phillips will have already spent a significant amount of time at the Etihad.
The former Leeds United midfielder has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester City. Pep Guardiola is keen to replace Fernandinho in the midfield, and a deal worth PS42 million is expected to be struck today. The contract is expected to be for six years. According to reports, Phillips has been spotted in Manchester. The move is expected to be finalised today, subject to a medical and a signing of a contract.
The former Leeds United midfielder is currently a member of the England national team, and he has been a regular for the Blues. Phillips has now signed a five-year contract at Manchester City, costing PS45 million. Phillips’ new club Leeds United are expected to invest the money they pay for Phillips. Manchester City have already signed Tyler Adams, a midfielder from RB Leipzig. Meanwhile, Marc Cucurella is reportedly close to joining the club, and the City are likely to make their summer spending more substantial if they find the right players.
Inter are preparing a bid for Alessandro Bastoni
The Serie A giants have placed a PS50million price tag on Italy international Alessandro Bastoni. At 23, the 23-year-old has already made 14 international appearances for his country. Inter boss Antonio Conte has identified him as a key target. He played a pivotal role for Inter in the Scudetto last season and is regarded as one of the world’s best young defenders.
The Italian giants have been in talks with Tottenham over a transfer for the player who they managed when the pair were at Inter. Apparently, they’re looking to offload a prized asset to fund a move for Lukaku. However, Chelsea are demanding close to PS90m for the striker, and Inter are reportedly prepared to accept bids of PS50m or less for the defender. However, the more realistic destination for Bastoni would appear to be Tottenham. The north London club is keen to sign six players to strengthen their squad.
Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Inter Milan are all interested in signing the centre-back. Tottenham boss Antonio Conte is keen on the left-footed centre-back and could be a perfect match for Bastoni. Real Madrid are also interested in the centre-back, and a move to one of the Premier League giants would boost the player’s stock. Tottenham could make an opening bid for the centre-back, but it is unlikely to succeed.
Inter are scouting Lazio’s Sergej Milinkovic-Savic
Several major European clubs are interested in signing Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, according to reports in Italy. Manchester United, Juventus, and Real Madrid are all linked with the Serbian, who has already been spotted by Inter and Liverpool. Chelsea have also sent scouts to watch Milinkovic-Savic in the Europa League.
The Serbian has been lighting up Serie A for the past five seasons, making at least 25 appearances in the league each year. His slick passing and confidence with the ball in his feet have impressed Inter and the Italian press. Despite being on a contract until 2022 with Lazio, Inter are reportedly interested in signing him for a fee of up to PS89 million. The same fee was paid to Manchester United to sign Paul Pogba last summer.
As a 6’3″ midfielder, Milinkovic-Savic is an excellent option for Inter. He’s strong, good in tight spaces, and displays similar control to Spanish playmakers. Despite being 6’3″, he doesn’t possess the low center of gravity that is characteristic of their playmakers. He plays in central midfield on the left, where he can drift and dart as needed. With his strong passing ability, he regularly creates opportunities for teammates. His average of 1.3 key passes per 90 minutes is impressive and translates to 3.50 expected assists this season.
Inzaghi has built his team around the Lazio midfielder’s final-third skills, making Lucas Leiva and Marco Parolo do box-to-box running to make the most of Milinkovic-Savic’s skills. Despite the shortcomings, Inter’s scouts are confident in the Serbian midfielder’s capabilities.
Manchester City are scouting Benfica’s Alessandro Del Piero
Reports claim Manchester City are scouting Benfice midfielder Alessandro Del Piero, who has played for Benfica since 2016. The 20-year-old is a proven winner and has been in superb form for the Portuguese club. Although he has scored only one goal in 15 league appearances, he still possesses quick feet, dribbling ability and an eye for the extravagant.
The Italian international is one of the best young talents in Europe, with many comparing him to Andrea Pirlo and Marco Verratti. Some believe Del Piero is similar to Xavi. Like Xavi, he has a technical ability that makes him a highly rated player. While at Cesena, he honed his skills playing on loan with San Marino. Last season, he made the step up to first-team duties, helping his team reach the play-offs. He also won the award for best young player.
Atalanta were also linked with Del Piero and Maurizio Sarri is a close friend of the striker. Sarri also has an affinity with Del Piero and has been a regular for the club in recent seasons. The young Italian has improved his technique, technical ability, and defensive positioning. His 91.7% pass completion rate ranks third in Serie A.
