The transfer window might be shut across Europe’s top five leagues, but the rumour mill keeps on turning! Transfer Talk brings you all the latest buzz, comings, goings and, of course, done deals!
TOP STORY: Man United, West Ham linked with move for Goretzka
Two Premier League clubs are monitoring the situation of Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka, reports The Sun.
Manchester United and West Ham United are reported to be interested in the 29-year-old, but it is believed that more interest could surface in January. Goretzka has been unable to win a starting place in manager Vincent Kompany’s side over the summer, and the latest indicates that the club remain intent on moving him on at the next opportunity.
Bayern are open to an initial loan that would include a permanent clause, though there are concerns that his £273,000-per-week salary could prove to be a stumbling block for some clubs.
Goretzka, who arrived at the Allianz Arena on a free transfer in 2018, made 30 league appearances last season, but the acquisition of João Palhinha from Fulham has seen him fall down the pecking order amid difficult competition for places with also Joshua Kimmich and Aleksandar Pavlović.
The Germany international scored in Bayern’s 9-2 win in the UEFA Champions League over Dinamo Zagreb on Tuesday after coming on as a substitute in the 81st minute.
PAPER GOSSIP
– Real Madrid are in contact with Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, reports Team Talk. Los Blancos are reported to be planning a move for the 25-year-old next year, after identifying him as a player who could make an impact at the Santiago Bernabeu for “several years.” Alexander-Arnold entered the final year of his contract at Anfield in the summer.
– Talks are underway between Barcelona and the representatives of forward Lamine Yamal over a new contract, reports MARCA. The Blaugrana are believed to be keen to hand the 17-year-old an extension that would secure his future at the club until 2030, making him a key part of their future project. Yamal entered the final two years of his deal this summer, on his current contract that includes a release clause worth in the region of $1b.
– Manchester City are in “pole position” in the race for Bayern Munich attacking midfielder Jamal Musiala, reports Football Insider. Multiple clubs including Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Arsenal are reported to be among the sides keen on the 21-year-old, but it looks as though the Citizens have got themselves to the front of the queue. It is reported that the reigning Premier League champions would be willing to make a significant offer to land him.
– Chelsea left-back Ben Chilwell is open to leaving the club in January, reports Ekrem Konur. Two Premier League clubs are said to be considering a loan move for the 27-year-old, who is keen to both stay in England as well as garner regular playing time. He is yet to make an appearance this season and is one of the players that manager Enzo Maresca is willing to move on.
– Corinthians are assessing the transfer market for reinforcements in defence, reports Jorge Nicola. It is said that manager Ramon Diaz is keen to strengthen there after the club continued their recent poor form with a 2-1 defeat against Botafogo on Sunday. Corinthians have conceded 33 goals in 26 league matches this season.