Bayern Munich set to snatch Zlatan Ibrahimovic from Man United's grasp?
As always, Transfer Talk has its finger on the pulse when it comes to the latest gossip. See the latest deals here.
TOP STORY: Bayern to steal Zlatan from Man United?
Manchester United could be set for disappointment with Bayern Munich prepared to hijack their move for Zlatan Ibrahimovic as the Bavarians prepare a contingency plan, should Robert Lewandowski join Real Madrid, according to the Mirror.
The Swedish striker was set for a move to Old Trafford -- with sources telling ESPN FC a deal had already been agreed on -- but the Mirror reported that Bayern could make a late move, and the lure of a last chance to capture the Champions League, which has eluded Ibrahimovic throughout his career, could prove too tempting. Ibrahimovic will command wages in excess of £200,000 per week, which will not be a problem for either of the European giants, and the forward will wait until after Euro 2016 to choose his next club.
Man City turn to Stones after Laporte snub
Manchester City aren't used to being knocked back, so it was a shock when Athletic Bilbao centre-back Aymeric Laporte opted to commit his future to the Basque club with a new deal that includes a €65 million buyout clause.
City, still craving a ball-playing centre-back, will now turn their attention to Everton's John Stones, according to the Mirror. Chelsea failed with several bids last summer, but City have received encouragement that a deal can be struck.
The Toffees want at least £40 million for Stones, a similar fee to the one they were quoted for Laporte. City reportedly feel that represents better value and could push ahead with a bid, given Pep Guardiola's lack of confidence in Nicolas Otamendi and Eliaquim Mangala.
Schalke play down monster Sane move
Man City's plans to bring German starlet Leroy Sane to the Etihad in a £40 million deal appear to be some way off just yet, according to the Star. The player's club, Schalke, denied a report from the Sun that a deal is in place.
The 20-year-old, one of the rising stars in the Bundesliga, is featuring for Die Mannschaft at Euro 2016, and his searing pace could be perfect for Guardiola's intense system as he looks to rip up City's squad and start again. However, Schalke sporting director Christian Heidel has cooled that speculation.
"The story is incorrect," Heidel is quoted as saying. "Nothing has changed with Leroy Sane."
Koeman plans new era at Everton
Ronaldo Koeman has only just walked through the door at Goodison Park, but his first transfer targets are starting to filter to the media.
The Toffees are eyeing up a new No. 1 after Tim Howard's departure, and Tim Krul appears to fit the bill, while the Express suggests the Dutch manager will look to make a splash and lure Zenit St. Petersburg midfielder Axel Witsel in a big-money move.
Witsel, who has one year left on his deal with the Russian giants, is also wanted by Roma. But with new owner Farhad Moshiri bankrolling the Merseyside club with a £100 million spending spree, the Toffees will look to compete for some of Europe's most talented players.
Tap-ins
- The Saido Berahino saga could be coming to a conclusion, and West Brom have proposed a swap with West Ham for striker Diafra Sakho in a deal that could suit all involved. The Mirror reported that the Hammers could do a deal, having knocked back two Sunderland bids for the Senegalese that fell short of their £15 million valuation.
- Chelsea will search for a new backup goalkeeper this summer. The Guardian suggested that Marseille's Steve Mandanda could arrive on a free transfer, which would signal the end for Asmir Begovic after just one year at Stamford Bridge. Crystal Palace appear keen to offer the Bosnian stopper more minutes on the pitch, though a deal could prove too costly for the Eagles.
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