Transfer news LIVE: All the latest from Man Utd, Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal
Tuesday, July 24
Hazard to Real Madrid off?
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has declared that the club must adapt to the “dizzying” new-look transfer market by signing the next generation of stars – possibly pouring cold water on a move for Eden Hazard.
Marca have claimed that Real Madrid will not be sucked into paying over the odds for their targets, which would appear to rule them out of spending big on Hazard.
And Real Madrid chief Perez has suggested that Real will turn away from their famed Galactico policy of signing more established players by opting to recruit more up-and-coming talent like Brazilian Vinicius Junior – who cost £40m having only just turned 18.
Perez told reporters: “We know very well that the international footballing landscape has changed in a dizzying way and we must adapt and face up to this new reality.
“We must also not forget the important contribution of our youth set-up in the first team, which, as we all know, is one of the key parts of our identity.
“I said a few days ago that we would strengthen our squad with magnificent players and that’s what we’re doing, (Alvaro) Odriozola is one and so is Vinicius.
“We will put our faith strongly on the young talents that one day want to be the best in the world.
“That’s why Real Madrid are intensely strengthening the process of looking for young players.”
Origi for £27m
Liverpool will reportedly look to recoup £27million for Divock Origi this summer.
According to the Liverpool Echo, the Reds will look to bring in around £27m through the sale of Origi – who has been attracting interest from La Liga side Valencia.
Liverpool will reportedly hold on to the 23-year-old, who struggled in the Bundesliga with Wolfsburg last term, if they cannot find a team to meet that valuation.
It is claimed that Liverpool could sell as many seven players before the start of the 2018-19 Premier League campaign as they look to trim the senior squad.
Arsenal’s Coman blow
Arsenal seem to be out of the running to sign Bayern Munich star Kingsley Coman.
Coman is one name that has been linked with a move to the Emirates this summer with Arsenal reportedly keen on 22-year-old.
Indeed, respected journalist Dean Jones stated that Arsenal’s interest in the Frenchman was genuine.
However the winger himself has now commented that he will stay at Bayern and that Arsenal have not been in touch.
Asked if he has been in contact with Arsenal about a summer transfer, Coman told Sport1: “That’s not true.
“I’ve had no contact with Arsenal.
“I’ve just extended my contract here at Bayern and I’m planning to stay for many more years.”
Martial latest
Manchester United have decided Anthony Martial will NOT be allowed to head to Chelsea or Tottenham – even if their rivals are willing to pay more than £70m for him.
Frustrated Martial has been informed he can head for the Old Trafford exit door, but only for the right club and the right price.
Manchester United are refusing to do business with a Premier League rival, even if they are prepared to go above and beyond the £70m price tag United have slapped on the France international.
Reports in Germany claim Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund have joined Chelsea and Tottenham in showing interest in securing Martial’s services before the transfer window closes.
Jose Mourinho, who was initially opposed to Martial leaving United, has accepted his eagerness to call time on his stint in Manchester after three years, with the forward going in search of a fresh challenge.
Jose Mourinho is all too aware there is no value in keeping an unhappy player, but United will ensure Martial only leaves on their terms and will demand a minimum of £70m for him.