Manchester United
Manchester United have a strong interest in Kim Min-jae, they consider him a huge talent. However, at this moment they cannot trigger his €47m release clause, because this clause is only valid in early July, not now. They like the player and there are conversations happening, but it’s not a done deal because of the release clause situation. Newcastle have also sent their scouts to watch Kim but they know that Man Utd have been working on this deal for some time. Napoli will also try to offer the South Korean centre-back a new deal with a higher release clause, so let’s see what happens.
Phil Jones will leave Manchester United at the end of the current season, decision confirmed. The club will release the centre back on free transfer. Both Phil Jones and Axel Tuanzebe will be on the market as free agents and looking for new opportunities.
Sheikh Jassim has now made another increased bid — as always, it’s for 100% of Manchester United, will clear all debt and includes a separate fund directed solely at the club and community. Sources guarantee this is significant increase over the initial proposal.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is also cautiously optimistic about seeing his offer accepted – click here to find out more.
Real Madrid
Real Madrid are already preparing the official bid for Jude Bellingham. After personal terms on a long term deal were agreed two weeks ago, a proposal will be sent to BVB and it will include add-ons. The timing of the deal also depends on the Bundesliga title race; Real will be respectful with Dortmund.
Marco Asensio’s priority has always been to extend the contract and stay at Real Madrid. There’s interest from English and Italian clubs on free move but he hopes to stay. Talks over new deal are progressing, it’s not done yet but discussions will continue.
Sporting Lisbon
Jorge Mendes is taking care of Manuel Ugarte’s future. Talks will continue with Premier League clubs ahead of summer move, very concrete possibility. There’s interest from three Premier League clubs but no agreement with any team yet. The race is open. Release clause: €60m.
Are Liverpool one of the teams in the race for Ugarte this summer? Click here to find out in Ben Jacobs’ exclusive column!
Tottenham
Tottenham already exploring multiple options for new goalkeeper — David Raya of Brentford is one of the names on their list, but the final decision will be made together with the club’s new director. Hugo Lloris is expected to leave at the end of current season.
Arne Slot is one of five main candidates for the Tottenham manager job, but keep an eye on this surprise name of a recently-sacked Premier League boss – read more here!
The representatives of Tottenham striker Harry Kane have held talks with Paris Saint-Germain chief Luis Campos (Foot Mercato)
Toulouse
Toulouse are closing in on a deal to sign Spanish talented midfielder Cesar Gelabert on free transfer — done and set to be sealed. Gelabert will sign a four-year deal. He had two offers from Spanish clubs but chose Toulouse because of the project being built.
Valencia
Official: Talented young Spanish midfielder Javi Guerra signs new deal with Valencia, it’s done and valid until June 2027, and includes a €100m release clause.