Transfer News Highlights

Liverpool Stands Firm on Luis Díaz

Liverpool has made it clear that they have no intention of letting go of Luis Díaz, despite Barcelona's persistent interest. The Catalan club approached Liverpool recently but was swiftly rebuffed. According to The Athletic, Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, was informed that Arne Slot plans to keep Díaz in the squad for the 2025-26 season. Díaz, who joined Liverpool from FC Porto in 2022, has a contract that runs until the summer of 2027.

Manchester United Eyes Emiliano Martínez

Manchester United is reportedly exploring a move for Aston Villa's goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez. TyC Sports indicates that the Red Devils have maintained an interest in the 32-year-old Argentine, having contacted his representatives six months ago. However, securing Martínez could be challenging, as Aston Villa is expected to demand a significant transfer fee. Martínez is currently contracted at Villa Park until 2029.

Bayern Munich Targets Cody Gakpo and Rafael Leão

Bayern Munich has identified Liverpool's Cody Gakpo and AC Milan's Rafael Leão as their primary transfer targets for the summer. Kicker reports that the Bundesliga champions have held talks with the representatives of both players. Each player would command a transfer fee of at least €70m, which might necessitate Bayern to offload a player to afford the signings. Joao Palhinha is one player who might be on the move, having played only 941 minutes in all competitions since joining from Fulham.

Manchester United's Bid for Bryan Mbeumo

Manchester United has submitted an opening offer of £45m plus £10m in add-ons to Brentford for striker Bryan Mbeumo. However, this offer falls short of Brentford's valuation of the Cameroon international. Mbeumo has expressed his desire to move to Old Trafford, but United will need to improve their proposal to secure his services.

Liverpool's Pursuit of Milos Kerkez

Liverpool is actively trying to push forward a deal for AFC Bournemouth's wing-back Milos Kerkez. The Times reports that the Cherries are holding out for a £45m transfer fee for the 21-year-old Hungary international. Arne Slot sees Kerkez as an upgrade on Andrew Robertson, but negotiations are dragging on due to Bournemouth's firm stance on their valuation.

Confirmed Deals

• Juventus has completed the signing of AC Milan centre-back Pierre Kalulu after activating the €14.3m option clause in his loan deal. Kalulu has signed a four-year contract until summer 2029.

• Newcastle United has signed Spanish winger Antonio Cordero, 18, on a free transfer from Málaga upon the expiry of his contract.

Expert Take

Gab Marcotti describes AC Milan's Tijjani Reijnders as a "perpetual motion machine," highlighting the midfielder's relentless energy and work rate.

Other Rumors

• Aston Villa is the latest club linked with Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho. The 25-year-old has also been linked with Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, and Al Nassr.

• Luka Modric favors a move to AC Milan, seeing it as a "symbolic, personal, and strategic choice." The Croatian midfielder aims to play at the top level until the 2026 World Cup.

• Real Madrid is negotiating with River Plate for star Franco Mastantuono, although River insists on receiving the full €45m release clause.

• Napoli and Lille striker Jonathan David have stalled in negotiations, with Napoli considering alternative options to lead the line.

Stay tuned for more updates as the summer transfer window heats up!