Transfer News Update: Key Moves from Top European Clubs on July 23.
Tottenham Advised to Spend £80 Million on Rashford
Former Tottenham player Jamie O’Hara has urged his old club to splash the cash on Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford. O’Hara stated, “Rashford has always been my favorite player. He possesses star quality and has the ability to make a difference. If you have a coach who can get the best out of Rashford, you will have a top player. Rashford often makes intelligent runs but doesn’t receive enough of the ball. Would you spend £80 million on him? If it were me, I would be ready to do that. I would love to see him play for Tottenham.”
De Gea’s Return: MLS or Saudi Pro League?
After over a year without a club, former Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea appears poised for a return to professional football. The 33-year-old recently hinted at his comeback on social media. According to The Athletic, De Gea has received offers from the MLS and the Saudi Pro League, and a Serie A club is also interested. However, De Gea has ruled out a return to England. Reports suggest that De Gea will announce his next destination next week.
Manchester United Eye AC Milan Target
According to RMC Sport, Manchester United are interested in Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana. Notably, AC Milan had initially approached the French player and even reached a personal agreement for a four-year contract but failed to agree on a transfer fee with Monaco. Fofana has one year left on his contract with Monaco.
Barcelona Signs MLS Defender
Barcelona has confirmed the signing of center-back Mamadou Mbacke from LA FC. Last season, the Senegalese player played for Barcelona B on loan. The official statement from Barcelona reads, “Barcelona has reached an agreement with Los Angeles FC for the transfer of Mamadou Mbacke, who will sign a two-year contract until June 30, 2026, with an option to extend for two more years.”
Pep Denies De Bruyne’s Departure to Saudi Arabia
In a pre-match press conference ahead of Manchester City’s game against Celtic, manager Pep Guardiola dismissed rumors that Kevin De Bruyne had agreed on personal terms with Al Ittihad and would leave this summer. Guardiola also stated that Manchester City does not plan to make significant signings: “Kevin will not leave. If someone is to leave, we will discuss it. Of course, until the last day, the team can still participate in the transfer market, but I think there is an 85-90% chance we will keep the current squad. I feel comfortable because the current personnel quality is hard to replace. Let’s wait and see if any club makes a late bid for our players.”
Aston Villa Unveils Record Signing Onana
Aston Villa has officially announced the signing of Amadou Onana from Everton for £50 million, including add-ons. This transfer makes Onana the most expensive signing in Villa’s history. Previously, Moussa Diaby joined the club last summer from Bayer Leverkusen for £43 million. Aston Villa’s official statement reads, “We are delighted to confirm the signing of Amadou Onana from Everton. As a deep-lying midfielder capable of dictating play and regaining possession, Onana is a signing to watch.”
Real Madrid Eyes Shock Move for Hummels
According to Gazzetta, Real Madrid is considering signing German center-back Mats Hummels, currently a top target for Bologna. However, the Italian club is confident of completing the deal before Real Madrid. If the Spanish giants offer a good salary, Hummels could change his mind despite positive negotiations with Bologna. Real Madrid’s allure of titles remains strong, having defeated Hummels’ Dortmund in the Champions League final last June.
Joao Felix on the Brink of Joining Aston Villa
The relationship between Joao Felix and Atletico Madrid is at an impasse. The fallout with coach Simeone means Felix’s future at the Wanda Metropolitano is over. However, Atletico has struggled to find a buyer for Felix due to his high salary. Aston Villa’s interest might resolve this situation. After securing a Champions League spot for next season, Villa plans to loan Felix for a season with an option to buy.
Richarlison Determined to Stay at Tottenham
According to the Daily Mail, Saudi Arabian club Al Ahli is targeting Brazilian forwards Gabriel Jesus and Richarlison. Both players have faced difficulties at their current clubs. Richarlison scored 11 Premier League goals last season but lost his starting spot towards the end. Despite this, he remains determined to stay at Tottenham and fight for his place.
Alphonso Davies Anxious Over Uncertain Future
Alphonso Davies’ contract situation has been a headache for Bayern Munich for over a year. The Canadian defender’s contract expires in June 2025. Despite Bayern’s efforts, Davies has yet to agree on an extension. Real Madrid is interested but unwilling to pay a high fee for a player with one year left on his contract. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that Real’s president Perez is unwilling to offer more than 25-30 million euros, a figure Bayern finds unacceptable given Davies’ current valuation of 50 million euros.
Tottenham Excludes Reguilon and Bryan Gil from Asia Tour
Tottenham has finalized its squad for the Asia tour. Spurs will face Vissel Kobe on July 27 and the K-League All-Stars on July 31, concluding the tour with a match against Bayern Munich on August 3. Notably, Sergio Reguilon and Bryan Gil have been excluded from the tour. Both Spanish players are fit but were left out as they are not part of coach Ange Postecoglou’s plans.
