Man City plotting to sign Messi in January for €16.5m
After reports emerged claiming that Barcelona are ‘resigned’ to losing Lionel Messi next summer, Manchester City plan to step up their interest by making an early move for the six-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Pep Guardiola’s side are considering making a €16.5m (£15m) offer to sign Messi in January. They’re wary of the competition and plan to steal a march on their rivals by tempting the cash-strapped Barca into a sale. [Daily Star]
Pogba for Valverde?
Federico Valverde is on Manchester United’s wishlist following his impressive progress at Real Madrid. He’s beginning to establish a big reputation in Spain, leaving the Red Devils on ‘red alert’. With a release clause of €750m (£650m), however, it’s hard to see the English giants pulling this one off.
But when there’s a will, there’s a way as United plot to counter Real Madrid’s huge buyout clause by offering Paul Pogba in exchange for the Uruguayan midfielder. [The Sun]
Barcelona strike a deal to sign Depay in January
Ronald Koeman plans to make a fresh attempt to bring Memphis Depay to Barcelona in January. The 26-year-old had agreed on personal terms for a summer move. But the club’s financial restrictions pulled the plug on a deal. Therefore, he remains a Lyon player to this date.
But the Blaugrana remain committed to signing the former Manchester United forward and have an agreement in place for a January transfer. [Diario Sport]
Reports also state Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum and Manchester City center-back Eric Garcia, who will both be out of contract next summer, remain targets for Barcelona as well.
Liverpool & Tottenham to compete for Phillips
Kalvin Phillips has made a positive first impression in the Premier League with Leeds United, prompting interest from rival clubs. Liverpool and Tottenham are said to be leading the chase.
Jurgen Klopp and Jose Mourinho both hold the 24-year-old midfielder in high regard. Therefore, Phillips could become subject to bids near €55m (£50m). With Leeds possibly in need to sell to make ends meet, Liverpool and Spurs may make their moves come next summer. [Mirror]
