The summer transfer window won’t reopen in Europe for a while yet, but there are plenty of moves in the works and gossip swirling around. Transfer Talk brings you all the latest buzz on rumours, comings, goings and, of course, done deals!
TOP STORY: Barcelona want €80m for Raphinha
Barcelona have rejected a €60 million offer from an unnamed Premier League club for Raphinha, according to Diario Sport.
The winger has become a key member of Xavi Hernandez’s squad in recent times, notably scoring the decisive goal against Las Palmas and a brace to help earn Barcelona a 3-2 advantage in their Champions League quarterfinal against Paris Saint-Germain.
A number of European clubs have been keeping an eye on the 27-year-old during that time, but the Blaugrana have decided that they will not accept anything under €80m for him. That decision was made after an unnamed Premier League club’s proposal of €60m was received, with Barca feeling that Raphinha’s value is rising.
They are also aware of the financial power that top Premier League clubs have and feel that they should make a large offer for a player of the Brazil international’s quality, with Manchester United and Chelsea the clubs mentioned as possible destinations. Raphinha’s previous Premier League experience at Leeds United is another reason for that valuation.
Despite the factors above, Barca would be willing to accept a suitable offer that will help their financial situation, especially as João Félix‘s loan from Atletico Madrid is likely to be extended and Ferran Torres can also play on the left wing.
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PAPER GOSSIP
– Manchester City want to sign West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paquetá without meeting the 26-year-old’s release clause, reports Foot Mercato, which adds that paying the clause is only a last resort. The Citizens have a salary agreement that still exists from their attempts to sign the Brazil international last summer, and negotiations are complicated but continuing.
– Arsenal had a scout at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara during Bologna‘s draw against Monza to watch Joshua Zirkzee, says La Gazzetta dello Sport. The Premier League side will face competition from a few Serie A clubs with AC Milan, Napoli and Juventus all among those who are interested in the 22-year-old.
– Juventus are very unlikely to move for Lewis Ferguson this summer due to an injury that will keep the 24-year-old out for months, according to Calciomercato. It is probable that the Bianconeri will focus all of their efforts on Teun Koopmeiners, although his Atalanta teammate Éderson is also seen as an alternative.
– Bayern Munich are willing to let Serge Gnabry leave during the summer transfer window, according to Sky Sports Deutschland. A departure still remains unlikely, though, as the 28-year-old winger would only leave for a top club that would be willing to offer a similar annual salary to the €15m he currently earns.