Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is reportedly interested in bringing Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino to Camp Nou this summer. However, the Catalan club’s financial constraints have prevented them from making a formal offer for the Spanish midfielder. In contrast, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is working hard to convince Merino to return to England, where he previously spent a year at Newcastle. Merino has been a key player for Sociedad, making 242 appearances for the club and earning 23 caps for the Spanish national team. The Gunners are said to be in pole position to secure Merino’s signature, with Arteta personally reaching out to the player to discuss his plans for him.
Chelsea and Aston Villa Battle for Hoffenheim Striker
Premier League rivals Chelsea and Aston Villa are reportedly interested in Hoffenheim striker Maximilian Beier. The 21-year-old German forward has attracted attention after an impressive season in the Bundesliga, scoring 16 goals and providing three assists. Both clubs have been in contact with Hoffenheim, who have set a release clause of approximately €30m for Beier. However, discussions are expected to take place after the conclusion of the European Championship.
Napoli Willing to Lower Victor Osimhen’s Valuation
Napoli are open to reconsidering the valuation of striker Victor Osimhen to facilitate a potential exit from the club. The Nigerian forward has a release clause of €150m, which has proven to be a stumbling block in negotiations. Chelsea remain the favorites to land Osimhen, but are yet to engage in serious talks with Napoli. The Italian club is now willing to entertain bids closer to the €100m mark, in line with Osimhen’s preference for a move to England. Paris Saint-Germain is also monitoring the situation closely.
Bayern Munich Eye Internazionale Midfielder
Bayern Munich is reportedly preparing a bid for Internazionale midfielder Hakan Çalhanoğlu. The Italian club is holding out for a fee of €70m for the Turkey international, whose existing contract runs until 2027. Inter is unwilling to improve Çalhanoğlu’s current salary of €7m per year, which could prompt the 30-year-old midfielder to consider a move to the Bundesliga. Çalhanoğlu has previously played for AC Milan and Bayer Leverkusen.
Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool are reportedly vying for the signature of Feyenoord defender Lutsharel Geertruida. The versatile 23-year-old has attracted interest from Paris Saint-Germain as well, with the Dutch international currently on duty with the Netherlands national team. Geertruida has scored eight goals and provided five assists from defense, making him a highly sought-after prospect in the transfer market.
Italian club Lazio has submitted an offer for Manchester United striker Mason Greenwood. The 22-year-old forward has also attracted interest from Juventus, who had a bid rejected by the Red Devils. United is keen on securing a permanent transfer for Greenwood before his contract expires in 2025 and is holding out for a fee of around £30m. Talks are ongoing between the clubs as Greenwood considers his options for the future.