The transfer window for Europe’s biggest clubs is closed, but click here for all the deals and keep track of who has joined the big boys. Transfer Talk will continue to scour the world’s media and set correspondents loose to see what’s on the agenda for the summer.
Sarri to Italy, Holland to Stamford Bridge?
Chelsea’s recent form has seen column inches grow when it comes to speculation about the future of their star players, particularly Eden Hazard. Yet Calcio Mercato are suggesting that manager Maurizio Sarri is being lined up for a move to Roma.
They’re reporting that the Serie A giants are already preparing for life under the current Chelsea boss, such is their confidence at landing their man in the summer, if not earlier.
Sarri’s future has been in doubt following five defeats in 11 matches, though Chelsea could this weekend win the first trophy of the season when they face Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final. They’re also through to the last 16 of the Europa League following their win over Malmo on Thursday.
However, Roma officials believe their formation suits Sarri, and that he would be keen to return to Italy.
Meanwhile, at Stamford Bridge, the Daily Mail are reporting that Chelsea are eyeing England assistant manager Steve Holland should Sarri leave or be sacked.
Skriniar contract extension talk a blow to United
Inter Milan defender Milan Skriniar has told Sky Italia that he is close to agreeing a new contract with the club, which would be bad news for Manchester United.
The 24 year old joined Inter in 2017 and has since made 71 appearances, in which he has become one of the most reliable defenders in Serie A. United are among a host of clubs reportedly clambering for his signature.
However, Inter are keen to hang on to their man and are said to be close to an extension. Slovak defender Skriniar said: “On the renewal, we are close. I have a great relationship with the club.”
Arsenal keeping tabs on Grimaldo …
Arsenal representatives were busy on duty at Benfica on Thursday night, with Portuguese paper Record reporting that they were watching defender Alex Grimaldo. Again.
The Portuguese press are suggesting that Gunners officials were watching the Europa League clash with Galatasaray with a view to reporting back on the left-back, who was later awarded the man of the match award by the same journalists. Grimaldo is said to have a €60 million release clause and has been in fine form this season. Arsenal have long been linked with the highly rated 23-year-old, with previous reports suggesting Nacho Monreal could move in the other direction.
Arsenal aren’t alone in their admiration of the defender, and face a battle with Manchester City, Napoli and Atletico Madrid, who are all keen.
… and want to reunite Monchi and Emery
Arsenal are also looking to bolster their front office with the appointment of Monchi as their technical director, reports the Mirror.
The Spaniard, currently at Roma, has a longstanding relationship with Arsenal manager Unai Emery from their Sevilla days.
The North London club have Ajax’s Marc Overmars on the list as Monchi is also being considered by Paris-Saint Germain and Manchester United.
Tap-ins
– Tuttosport is suggesting a mass exodus from Juventus should they fail to overturn their 2-0 deficit against Atletico Madrid. They’re reporting that should Massimiliano Allegri‘s side fail to progress, not only could the manager be shown the exit door, but also Paulo Dybala, Mario Mandzukic and Alex Sandro.
– The Telegraph are reporting that Chelsea’s two-window transfer ban pushes Eden Hazard closer to the Stamford Bridge exit door. They report that the Blues cannot afford to let Hazard leave for free in 2020, and so will sell this summer to reinvest.
– Napoli are close to signing David Opsina on a permanent basis, with a deal all but agreed, reports Calcio Mercato. The Colombian has been with the Serie A side on loan from Arsenal, but is expected to move in the summer for a fee of around €4m.