Football transfer gossip round-up from around Europe.
Last-ditch play for De Ligt
Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu reportedly made one last-ditch bid to sign Ajax teenager Matthijs de Ligt as he planned to fly to the Netherlands in person to convince the youngster to make the move.
According to Mundo Deportivo, De Ligt’s agent Mino Raiola informed Bartomeu that he would need to match Juventus’ salary offer if a move was to happen.
Unfortunately for the Spanish giants, they couldn’t do so and a move to Serie A appears imminent for the Dutchman.
Potential Liverpool exit
Liverpool could be set to lose back-up goalkeeper Simon Mignolet, though they will need Jurgen Klopp to approve the transfer.
According to DH, per Sport Witness, Mignolet’s agent said: “It’s important for Simon to play somewhere, and our goal is still to make him leave.”
Klopp is hesitant to lose Mignolet, who he considers to be the ideal back-up keeper and so the Belgian may have to force the move.
Everton eye Mandzukic
Croatian star Mario Mandzukic has reportedly popped up on Everton’s radar as they look to finally replace Romelu Lukaku.
According to TuttoJuve, Everton would be willing to offer €15m to Juventus for Mandzukic, though there’s no guarantee that will be enough.
The Toffees believe the powerful striker would be keen on a move to the Premier League and are hoping that will be enough to convince him to switch clubs.
Arsenal opt against deal
Arsenal have decided not to pursue a chance to sign Ismael Bennacer from Empoli, with the midfielder set to join AC Milan.
The 21-year-old has impressed on international duty with Algeria at the African Cup of Nations and had been linked with a return to the Emirates Stadium after leaving for Serie A in 2017.
The Gunners had a clause inserted in the deal when negotiating his exit that said they could match any bid made for Bennacer.
However, the Guardian say that the Gunners have opted against a move for the midfielder, with Milan having an offer of €16m plus €2m in add-ons accepted.
Man City face battle for Alves
Juventus have reportedly joined Manchester City and Inter Milan in the race for Dani Alves’ signature.
According to Goal, Alves’ representatives were in Turin on Monday, potentially to push a move to Juventus.
With the Brazilian available for free, there are plenty of clubs fighting to convince him of their respective projects.
