Arsenal could offer record contract for Vinicius Jr; Man Utd target Zirkzee
Arsenal’s Pursuit of Vinicius Jr and Barcola
Arsenal is reportedly preparing to offer a significant contract to Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr, potentially the largest in the club’s history. This comes amidst speculation about the Brazilian international’s future, with his current contract at Real Madrid running until 2027. The club has reportedly assessed the financial implications and believes it has the means to fund such a move, which would likely involve a substantial pay increase for the player.
The Gunners are also reportedly interested in Bradley Barcola. However, Paris Saint-Germain values the winger at £145m, a fee that would require Liverpool, another interested club, to break the Premier League transfer record if they wish to sign him. Arsenal has also reportedly gained a boost in their pursuit of Bruno Guimaraes.
Manchester United and Chelsea Transfer Activities
Manchester United has reportedly signed Kit Margetson and agreed personal terms with Manu Kone. The club is also reportedly eyeing Real Madrid players Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga, though Tchouameni might be outside their price range. Additionally, there is growing interest in Carlos Baleba and Ollie Watkins. Reports suggest that Joshua Zirkzee, a forward who made only five league starts last season, is on Como’s radar. Como, managed by Cesc Fabregas, is seeking reinforcements after qualifying for the Champions League for the first time.
Zirkzee arrived at United in 2024 from Bologna for £36.3m (€42.5m). He joins Marcus Rashford as players Michael Carrick may sanction the departure of if the price is suitable. Juventus is also reportedly interested in Zirkzee, with reports suggesting a potential loan deal with an option to buy for around £30m.
Chelsea is reportedly in talks to sign Danny Welbeck from Brighton. The Blues are said to have a strong interest in the 35-year-old striker, with confidence that a deal can be reached for him to work under new manager Xabi Alonso. Welbeck’s experience and leadership qualities are seen as desirable additions to the squad. Chelsea is also preparing a new bid for Alex Scott after securing a deal for Maxence Lacroix, who is close to completing a £52m move to Stamford Bridge.
Other Notable Transfers and Contract Extensions
Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol has signed a contract extension that will keep him at the club until 2031. The 24-year-old Croatian international will also receive a significant wage increase with the extension. Gvardiol joined Manchester City in the summer of 2023 for £76.9m (€90m) from RB Leipzig. He has made 122 appearances for City across all competitions since his arrival, scoring 13 goals.
Real Madrid has reportedly increased their offer for RB Leipzig forward Yan Diomande to £102m, up from their previous bid of £94m, which Leipzig rejected. Diomande was also a target for PSG and Liverpool, but he has reportedly set his sights on the Madrid side. Further talks are reportedly needed to finalize the deal, with Leipzig seeking a higher guaranteed figure and fewer add-ons.
Free agent John Stones, a former Manchester City defender, is reportedly attracting interest from Juventus and Inter Milan. Arsenal was also reportedly interested in the England defender following William Saliba’s injury. PSG and Juventus are both interested in Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, who currently plays for Parma. Suzuki is reportedly a backup option for Juventus if their move for Emiliano Martinez does not materialize.
Fulham is reportedly in the running for Real Madrid’s young forward Franco Mastantuono. The 18-year-old Argentina international joined Los Blancos last year from River Plate in a £38.4m (€45m) deal but found game time limited last season, making only 11 league starts. Reports suggest new boss Jose Mourinho is not a fan of the player. Crystal Palace is in advanced talks to sign French centre-back Chrislain Matsima from FC Augsburg for £25.6m (€30m), amidst rumors of Maxence Lacroix’s move to Chelsea. Matsima is 24 years old.
Newcastle United winger Harvey Barnes has signed a new contract with the Magpies. He had been linked with a move to Aston Villa earlier in the transfer window. Barnes expressed his happiness to continue his journey with the club, highlighting his enjoyment of the city, stadium, and people, and his desire for more success with the team.
Source: standard.co.uk
