Transfer news LIVE! Arsenal launch shock Watkins move and rival Chelsea for Tel, Man Utd medical booked

FootballSports
30 Jan 2025 • 1:25 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United are among those to watch in the finals days of the January transfer window as clubs in the Premier League. Clubs are frantically negotiating deals to beat the deadline, with Chelsea showing late interest in Alejandro Garnacho.

The Gunners are desperate to sign a striker and though a move for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko looks unlikely this month Mikel Arteta’s side are still pursuing the forward. Mathys Tel wants to leave Bayern Munich and is now on Arsenal’s radar having interested Chelsea.

Wolves’ Matheus Cunha is seen as an alternative should they not manage to secure Sesko, while Arsenal lead the race for Norwegian starlet Sverre Nypan.

Manchester United, meanwhile, are closing in on a deal with Lecce for defender Patrick Dorgu but the club need to sell to buy, with Garnacho possibly on the way out and Antony offloaded on loan to Real Betis. Marcus Rashford is also searching for a move away from Old Trafford, but only one club looks like a possible option this January.

Follow all the latest news, rumours and deals below, plus analysis on the done deals and where new signings will fit into the starting line-ups:

January transfer window - live updates

  • Chelsea target Mathys Tel prefers Arsenal move
  • Arsenal line up Benjamin Sesko alternatives with Nico Williams linked
  • Patrick Dorgu set for Man Utd medical
  • Arsenal defender also set to join Man Utd
  • Al-Hilal eye Mohamed Salah with Liverpool future still uncertain
  • Arsenal make shock move for Ollie Watkins

Arsenal make shock move for Ollie Watkins

17:23

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Jack Rathborn

Arsenal have made a stunning move to sign Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins.

The Mail reports that an offer has been rejected for the England striker.

The Gunners have moved to beat next week’s deadline to strengthen in attack after Gabriel Jesus’ injury and Kai Havertz’s inconsistent form.

Manchester United close in on Arsenal youngster

17:15

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Harry Latham-Coyle

Ayden Heaven looks set to switch London for Old Trafford, with widespread reports indicating that the 18-year-old defender is bound for Manchester United with his route into the Arsenal first-team picture blocked. A signing for the future? Or can Heaven provide Ruben Amorim with a more immediate option with a couple of key defensive injuries in his squad?

Manchester United close in on £30m Patrick Dorgu signing from Lecce

16:45

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Harry Latham-Coyle

Manchester United are closing in on the signing of Lecce’s Patrick Dorgu, the PA news agency understands.

Ruben Amorim’s progress since taking over as head coach in November has been hindered somewhat by the squad’s composition, with a lack of options at left wing-back a key issue.

United have targeted Dorgu, 20, to help bolster that area and the talented Denmark international is edging closer to becoming the Portuguese’s first signing.

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Ruben Amorim hires 78-year-old athletics coach to whip Man Utd players into shape

16:15

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Lawrence Ostlere

Manchester United have hired renowned athletics coach Harry Marra to help improve the players’ fitness and running technique.

The 78-year-old American is considered one of the outstanding coaches in the history of track and field, and is best known for helping decathlete Ashton Eaton to two Olympic gold medals. He also coached Brianne Theisen, Eaton’s wife, who is a world and Olympic medalist in heptathlon.

United have brought in Marra on a short-term basis, according to The Times, thought to be only a matter of weeks, as manager Ruben Amorim looks to turn around the team’s fortunes with his side sitting 12th in the Premier League table.

Amorim has been clear on the physical demands he places on his players, saying in December: “Even with the best starting XI on the planet, without running, they will not win anything. It’s very clear. If you want to win the Premier League, you have to run like mad dogs. If not, we are not going to do it, that is clear.”

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Celtic hope to seal deal to re-sign Kieran Tierney

15:45

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Harry Latham-Coyle

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers says a move for Arsenal's Kieran Tierney will "definitely happen" in the summer but he is trying to bring him in before next week's transfer window shuts.

Tierney has been in talks over a pre-contract agreement ahead of an emotional return to Celtic Park on a free transfer at the end of the season.

But, with loanee Alex Valle back at parent club Barcelona, Rodgers would like the left-back to return north of the border before next week's transfer deadline.

"He's still, at this moment, an Arsenal player," the former Liverpool and Leicester boss said ahead of Celtic's final Champions League league phase game at Aston Villa.

"I think we're agreed that it will definitely take place in the summer. If we can do it beforehand, then great.

"I think that, like I said, we prepared that for the summer. I don't want to speak too much on it with the greatest respect, because he's not a Celtic player here now with us.

"But if we were able to do it, of course, we would like to do that, but that's out of our control at this moment in time."

Rodgers confirmed Valle would not play for the Hoops again after his loan ended.

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Kyle Walker reveals ‘uncomfortable’ exit talks with Pep Guardiola after joining AC Milan

15:15

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Lawrence Ostlere

Kyle Walker endured an uncomfortable conversation with Pep Guardiola when the defender told the Manchester City manager he wanted to leave the club.

Walker has joined AC Milan on loan for the rest of the season in a deal that includes an option to stay at the San Siro permanently in the summer.

The 34-year-old has been a staple for both City and England over the past seven years, winning 17 trophies at the Etihad after moving from Tottenham for £45m in 2017. But he found himself on the periphery at times this season and requested to leave in order to play more minutes.

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Five transfers that could happen before deadline, and the desperate clubs behind them

14:45

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Harry Latham-Coyle

While a hectic Champions League finale tonight will distract some of Europe’s top clubs, it looks like it could be a busy end to the transfer window. Here are five deals that may yet be done:

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The damning final truth of Antony’s Manchester United nightmare

14:15

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Harry Latham-Coyle

One Manchester United forward who has already left the club this January is Antony. Richard Jolly chronicles the Old Trafford career of a signing that proved a great misstep.

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Marcus Rashford left with just one transfer option to end Manchester United stalemate

13:45

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Miguel Delaney

Manchester United and Marcus Rashford are facing up to a period where one of their best-paid stars is in the cold for months, as a suitable move has yet to present itself and only Juventus looks like a possible option this January.

The club have fielded a number of informal enquiries for the forward since he announced he was open to leaving in December, but Rashford wants to ensure any move is one that fits his preferences.

That involves the chance to compete for trophies this season, while also at a level high enough to persuade England manager Thomas Tuchel that he should be brought back into the international fold.

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Marcus Rashford trains ahead of Europa League clash even as future unclear

13:15

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Harry Latham-Coyle

Marcus Rashford did train with the rest of the Manchester United squad today ahead of the Europa League trip to Romania to face FCSB. Can he seal a move before the window closes?

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Marcus Rashford should be banished from Man Utd dressing room, says Paul Scholes

12:45

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Lawrence Ostlere

Marcus Rashford should be “banished” from the Manchester United dressing room, Paul Scholes has said in a frank assessment of the forward’s future at the club, adding: “The sooner he’s gone, the better.”

Rashford has not featured in any of United’s last 11 matches in all competitions, with boss Ruben Amorim leaving the 27-year-old out of the matchday squad on all but one occasion.

Speaking after Sunday’s 1-0 Premier League win at Fulham, Amorim explained why Rashford had been left out again. “The reason is the training, what I think a footballer should do in training, in life and every day,” the manager said.

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Bayer Leverkusen turn to Emi Buendia after James McAtee interest

12:15

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Harry Latham-Coyle

Bayer Leverkusen look set to complete the signing of Emi Buendia from Aston Villa in the next day or two, with the creative midfielder arriving on an initial loan. The Bundesliga club had been linked with Manchester City youngster James McAtee.

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Arsenal move for Chelsea target Mathys Tel

11:55

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Miguel Delaney

Arsenal have targeted Bayern Munich forward Mathys Tel to boost their attacking options.

The Independent understands Mikel Arteta is keen on the French striker, who is also being considered by London rivals Chelsea, with both a loan or permanent deal currently being discussed.

The Gunners have struggled to secure a reliable centre-forward this season, with Kai Havertz’s form inconsistent and Gabriel Jesus now out injured for the remainder of the season.

Tel joined the Bavarian giants from Rennes in 2022 for a fee worth up to £23.9m.

He has played 82 times in all competitions, scoring 16 goals, though the 19-year-old is yet to register this term.

While Chelsea are also keen to add depth behind Nicolas Jackson, fellow forward Christopher Nkunku has been linked with a move to Bayern.

Italian clubs monitor Rasmus Hojlund

11:45

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Harry Latham-Coyle

Rasmus Hojlund is being connected with a return to Italy by Talksport. The striker has struggled for consistency since arriving from Atalanta at the start of last season, and Ruben Amorim is said to be concerned about his fit within the Portuguese manager’s system. Juventus and Napoli could be potential destinations for the Dane.

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Al-Hilal eye Mohamed Salah as Neymar replacement

11:15

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Harry Latham-Coyle

With Neymar no longer at the club, Al-Hilal are chasing a possible replacement as a marquee forward with Mohamed Salah again a target. Regularly linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League over the last few years, the Liverpool forward’s future is far from clear with discussions over a new contract ongoing - and The Telegraph suggest Al-Hilal could pounce.

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Arsenal monitoring Nico Williams

11:12

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Harry Latham-Coyle

Arsenal could reignite their interest in Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, ESPN report, with Benjamin Sesko seemingly likely to stay at RB Leipzig. Williams has been heavily linked with a switch to London before.

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Neymar terminates Al-Hilal contract amid links with return to former club

11:00

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Harry Latham-Coyle

Neymar has parted ways with Al-Hilal by mutual consent, the Saudi Pro League champions have confirmed, after a disappointing spell at the club for Brazil's all-time top scorer.

The 32-year-old sustained a knee injury in Brazil's World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023 and has struggled to get back to his best.

"Al-Hilal Club Company and Neymar Jr. have agreed to terminate their contractual relationship by mutual consent, the Saudi club posted on X, formerly Twitter.

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Manchester United close in on Arsenal youngster

10:45

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Harry Latham-Coyle

Ayden Heaven looks set to switch London for Old Trafford, with widespread reports indicating that the 18-year-old defender is bound for Manchester United with his route into the Arsenal first-team picture blocked. A signing for the future? Or can Heaven provide Ruben Amorim with a more immediate option with a couple of key defensive injuries in his squad?

Mathys Tel linked with Chelsea as chase hots up for Bayern youngster

10:15

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Harry Latham-Coyle

Mathys Tel appears bound for the exit door at Bayern Munich, with the 19-year-old’s availability piquing the interest of many of Europe’s top clubs. The Daily Mail suggest that Chelsea are heading the chase after re-opening talks but several other Premier League clubs are in the mix.

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Wolves determined to keep Matheus Cunha at the club amid transfer interest

09:45

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Mike Jones

Wolves are not expected to sell star player Matheus Cunha during the January transfer window, despite reported interest from a host of Premier League clubs.

The 25-year-old has been a standout performer for Wolves in a miserable season, scoring 10 goals and assisting four more in 21 Premier League appearances.

That has seen him attract interest from a number of Premier League clubs during the current transfer window, with Nottingham Forest and Arsenal said to be considering bids.

Celtic hope to seal deal to re-sign Kieran Tierney

09:30

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Harry Latham-Coyle

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers says a move for Arsenal's Kieran Tierney will "definitely happen" in the summer but he is trying to bring him in before next week's transfer window shuts.

Tierney has been in talks over a pre-contract agreement ahead of an emotional return to Celtic Park on a free transfer at the end of the season.

But, with loanee Alex Valle back at parent club Barcelona, Rodgers would like the left-back to return north of the border before next week's transfer deadline.

"He's still, at this moment, an Arsenal player," the former Liverpool and Leicester boss said ahead of Celtic's final Champions League league phase game at Aston Villa.

"I think we're agreed that it will definitely take place in the summer. If we can do it beforehand, then great.

"I think that, like I said, we prepared that for the summer. I don't want to speak too much on it with the greatest respect, because he's not a Celtic player here now with us.

"But if we were able to do it, of course, we would like to do that, but that's out of our control at this moment in time."

Rodgers confirmed Valle would not play for the Hoops again after his loan ended.

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Almiron close to Atlanta return

09:15

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Mike Jones

Miguel Almiron is close to a return to Atlanta United.

Atlanta have agreed an £8m plus £3m in add-ons fee with Newcastle.

Almiron is said to be in advanced talks on his personal terms.

The 30-year-old Almiron moved to Newcastle from Atlanta exactly six years ago for a then club-record £21m.

Kyle Walker reveals ‘uncomfortable’ exit talks with Pep Guardiola after joining AC Milan

09:00

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Mike Jones

Kyle Walker endured an uncomfortable conversation with Pep Guardiola when the defender told the Manchester City manager he wanted to leave the club.

Walker has joined AC Milan on loan for the rest of the season in a deal that includes an option to stay at the San Siro permanently in the summer.

The 34-year-old has been a staple for both City and England over the past seven years, winning 17 trophies at the Etihad after moving from Tottenham for £45m in 2017. But he found himself on the periphery at times this season and requested to leave in order to play more minutes.

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Five transfers that could happen before deadline, and the desperate clubs behind them

08:30

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Jamie Braidwood

While a hectic Champions League finale tonight will distract some of Europe’s top clubs, it looks like it could be a busy end to a transfer window that has bubbled away without yet boiling over. Here are five deals that may yet be done:

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Ruben Amorim claims he will put 63-year-old goalkeeping coach in Man Utd squad before Marcus Rashford

08:00

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Mike Jones

Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim revealed that the reason for Marcus Rashford’s continued absence from the matchday squad is the lack of effort he is seeing in training and said he will put 63-year-old goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital on the bench before the England international.

Rashford, who has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford during the January transfer window, has not featured for United since a 2-1 victory over Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League back in December.

The Red Devils have played 11 matches across all competitions since then with Rashford not even being included as a substitute.

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Marcus Rashford left with just one transfer option to end Manchester United stalemate

07:15

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Miguel Delaney

Manchester United and Marcus Rashford are facing up to a period where one of their best-paid stars is in the cold for months, as a suitable move has yet to present itself and only Juventus looks like a possible option this January.

The club have fielded a number of informal enquiries for the forward since he announced he was open to leaving in December, but Rashford wants to ensure any move is one that fits his preferences.

That involves the chance to compete for trophies this season, while also at a level high enough to persuade England manager Thomas Tuchel that he should be brought back into the international fold.

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Arsenal learn outcome of Myles Lewis-Skelly appeal

06:35

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Jamie Braidwood

Arsenal have won their appeal against Myles Lewis-Skelly’s controversial red card against Wolves.

The 18-year-old was shown a straight-red card for a trip on Wolves defender Matt Doherty, in a decision that left boss Mikel Arteta “absolutely fuming”.

Referee Michael Oliver determined that Lewis-Skelly’s challenge was deemed to be “serious foul play” but Arsenal have been successful in overturning a three-game ban.

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Brentford target ex-Premier League star to bolster defensive options

06:00

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Mike Jones

Brentford are considering a move for Barcelona's Andreas Christensen, as manager Thomas Frank looks at whether he can improve his defensive options this January. The Camp Nou hierarchy want to make outgoings to meet financial restrictions but it is understood the former Chelsea centre-half wants to fight for his place.

Christensen has been injured for much of the season, meaning he has only made one league appearance. While the 28-year-old is intent on reclaiming his place, Barca's financial situation has meant clubs are willing to test whether a deal is possible.

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Marcus Rashford should be banished from Man Utd dressing room, says Paul Scholes

05:00

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Mike Jones

Marcus Rashford should be “banished” from the Manchester United dressing room, Paul Scholes has said in a frank assessment of the forward’s future at the club, adding: “The sooner he’s gone, the better.”

Rashford has not featured in any of United’s last 11 matches in all competitions, with boss Ruben Amorim leaving the 27-year-old out of the matchday squad on all but one occasion.

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Chelsea break women’s world transfer record to sign US star Naomi Girma

04:00

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Mike Jones

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of United States defender Naomi Girma for a reported world-record fee.

The 24-year-old was unveiled on the pitch by the Women’s Super League champions ahead of Sunday’s game against Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.

She arrives from San Diego Wave for a reported £900,000, eclipsing the current record - paid by Bay FC in February 2024 for Racheal Kundananji - by £215,000.

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Five transfers that could happen before deadline, and the desperate clubs behind them

03:00

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Mike Jones

The January transfer window is into its final week, with time running out for Premier League clubs to get deals over the line. The Premier League deadline is Monday 3 February, at 11pm GMT, with Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal all looking to complete business.

The Gunners want a striker and Mikel Arteta is open to new recruits to help the club catch Liverpool in the title race, while Chelsea are hoping to be opportunistic in the market.

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The damning final truth of Antony’s Manchester United nightmare

02:00

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Mike Jones

Ruben Amorim was discussing a forward he doesn’t pick. He would, he said on Sunday, be willing to put his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach on the bench ahead of him if he didn’t give the maximum in training.

It wasn’t Antony he was talking about: Marcus Rashford was the man damned by comparison with Jorge Vital. (Although a spot on the bench has already opened up.)

The temptation is to suggest the veteran Vital would be of similar use to Antony as a substitute.

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Fenerbahce rule out Rashford move

01:00

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Mike Jones

Fenerbahce vice-president Acun Ilicali says the club are not interested in signing Marcus Rashford.

Ilicali said: “Yesterday it was in the news that we are interested. First of all, he is a fantastic player.

“But in your team, when you have some plans, it is not logical to have two players in the same position that are too similar.

“These kinds of players need to play, play, play – and, if he comes, one of the other players would not be able to play.

“When it came in front of us, unfortunately we said no – so there is nothing about this transfer.

“Of course, there were some rumours, but I can say very comfortably that we are not interested. But he’s a good player.”

Casemiro open to Roma move

00:30

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Mike Jones

Sky Sports’ Melissa Reddy says that Manchester United midfielder Casemiro is open to a move to Roma.

United are willing to let him leave on loan though they prefer a permanent deal during this window.

At this stage Roma have only asked for information about Casemiro and may not make their interest forma unless Leandro Paredes leaves for Boca Juniors.

Arteta rules out early Sterling return

00:00

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Mike Jones

Mikel Arteta has revealed Arsenal have no plans to terminate one of their domestic loans.

Raheem Sterling and Neto both joined the Gunners last summer.

As per the rules, Arsenal won't be able to sign a player on loan from another Premier League club amid links to the likes of Matheus Cunha and Evan Ferguson.

"We are not thinking about that," Arteta told reporters when asked if Arsenal were thinking about cutting one of the loan deals short.

Napoli and Man Utd still apart in Garnacho negotiations

Tuesday 28 January 2025 23:30

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Mike Jones

Napoli are determined to secure a replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia with Alejandro Garnacho at the top of the list.

Manchester United want around €65m for the winger and will not settle for less as they must sell players in order to bring in ones more suited to Ruben Amorim’s style of play.

According to Italian publication, Tutto Mercato, Napoli have offered around €55m plus bo