The summer transfer window is open! Transfer Talk brings you all the latest buzz on rumours, comings, goings and, of course, done deals!
TOP STORY: Barça’s move for Leão hits roadblock
AC Milan are set to resist interest from Barcelona in winger Rafael Leão, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Blaugrana have been linked with the 25-year-old recently as they look to reinforce their forward line, but with little time remaining in the transfer window to find a replacement, the latest indicates that the Rossoneri have no plans to part ways with the Portugal international after “exploratory talks” were held between both sides.
A release clause in Leão’s deal allows him to be signed for a fee of €175 million, but Barça’s dire financial situation means they are nowhere near being able to meet that clause and are exploring other options, including Juventus’ Federico Chiesa.
Leão remains contracted with Milan until the summer of 2028, and he played 90 minutes as Paulo Fonseca’s side drew 2-2 with Torino in their Serie A opener on Saturday.
PAPER GOSSIP
– Newcastle United are looking at alternatives to Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guéhi after failing to make progress in talks to sign the defender, reports the Athletic. The Magpies are said to have made contact with Chelsea over a move for Axel Disasi, 26, while they are also interested in 25-year-old Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba. It is reported that while Newcastle have “not fully closed the door” on Guehi, they are now ensuring that contingency plans are in place.
– Manchester United are willing to let midfielder Christian Eriksen leave if they receive an offer of £5m, reports Football Insider. Manager Erik ten Hag is believed to see the 32-year-old, who has just one year remaining on his deal at Old Trafford, as “surplus to requirements.” Former club Ajax Amsterdam are unlikely to make a move for Eriksen due to them being required to offload players first.
– Two clubs are battling for the signature of Liverpool centre-back Sepp van den Berg, reports the Times. Brentford and Bayer Leverkusen are said to be the two sides at the front of the queue for the 22-year-old, with talks ongoing with the Reds regarding a deal worth between £20m and £25m.
– A deal has been agreed between Fulham and Crystal Palace for centre-back Joachim Andersen, according to the Athletic. An agreement worth £30m including add-ons is said to have been finalised for the 28-year-old, who will now undergo a medical at Craven Cottage before the move can be completed. The Cottagers have been keen to strengthen at centre-back this summer after losing Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer to Chelsea.