Transfer News LIVE updates: Chelsea deals, Man Utd scout star; Liverpool, Arsenal gossip

TRANSFER NEWS LIVE: All the latest from Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Barcelona and beyond…

Thursday July 27

Nainggolan signs Roma contract

20:11: Radja Nainggolan has singed a new four-year contract at Roma.

Nainggolan was heavily linked with a move to the Premier League last summer and there has been mild interest during this transfer window.

But Roma have moved to block the Belgian from leaving.

“I think I have demonstrated that this is what I always wanted,” Nainggolan, 29, told the club’s website.

“So I’m very happy, especially that the club and I can continue our adventure and move forward together.”

Perisic edging closer to Man Utd

20:00: Manchester United are edging closer to securing Inter Milan star Ivan Perisic.

That’s according to Italian journalist Tancredi Palmeri.

Inter boss Luciano Spalletti says he wants the Croatia international to stay but the situation may be out of his control.

“I want to keep him but we must consider the opinion of the club and player,” he said.

And Palmeri reckons Spalletti’s comments mean Perisic is almost certain to join the Red Devils this summer.

“Perisic even closer to Manchester United after Inter manager saying that he has to deal with the will of the player and the club,” Palmeri tweeted.

Chelsea demands over Diego Costa

19:49: Chelsea are demanding £55m for Diego Costa.

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has told Costa he can leave the Stamford Bridge club this summer.

The Daily Mail claim Atletico Madrid have only bid up to £26m for the Spain international.

But Chelsea want DOUBLE that fee to let last season’s club top scorer go.

AC Milan are also interested in the striker.

Perez’s Arsenal exit edges closer

19:35: Lucas Perez is edging closer to leaving Arsenal with his agent travelling to the English capital for talks.

Spanish outlet AS, the forward’s agent Rodrigo Fernandez is now in London for talks over his exit.

The report is indicating that Perez’s representative is attempting to help secure a return to Deportivo La Coruna for the Spaniard.

Chelsea loan out goalkeeper

19:01: Jamal Blackman has signed a new four-year contract at Chelsea… and has immediately gone out on loan.

The goalkeeper, 23, has joined Sheffield United for the season.

“Jamal has been our number one target right the way through the summer,” said Blades boss Chris Wilder.

“There was a situation with his new contract at Chelsea so we’ve had to be patient but we are delighted that he is with us now because there were a few clubs in for him. He provides genuine competition in an important area of the pitch.”

Matic to Man Utd boost

18:50: Manchester United have a clear run at signing Chelsea star Nemanja Matic after Juventus backed out of a move.

The Red Devils have been battling the Serie A giants for the Chelsea midfielder’s signature in recent months.

But The Independent claim Juve have now turned their attention to Paris Saint-Germain’s Blaise Matuidi, leaving United in pole position to sign Matic.

Man Utd to scout Dendoncker

18:17: Manchester United will have scouts at Anderlecht’s league opener tomorrow to watch Leander Dendoncker in action.

Anderlecht want to keep Dendoncker and have slapped a £34m price on his head.

But De Morgen claim the midfielder could go for as little as £22.3m as Anderlecht cannot realistically so no to such a fee.

AC Milan and RB Leipzig representatives will also be at the game.

Real Madrid to reward Benzema

17:35: Real Madrid are ready to hand Karim Benzema a new deal.

Spanish newspaper Marca claim he is set to sign a new contract that takes him to either the end of the 2021 or 2022 season.

His current deal expires in 2019 but Zinedine Zidane doesn’t want to sanction his exit this summer and sees him as part of his plans for the foreseeable future.

Chelsea send Hector to Hull

16:54: Chelsea have sent defender Michael Hector on loan to Hull.

The 25-year-old centre-back said: “When I found out that Hull were interested in taking me on loan, it was an easy decision to make.

“It’s a great challenge for me to come back to England after a season in Germany and try to help this Club get back into the Premier League.

“The players here seem like a great bunch and hopefully I can play my part in helping them – and the Club – enjoy a successful season in 2017/18.”

Wenger gives Sanchez update

It’s business as usual for Alexis Sanchez at Arsenal as of Sunday.

Arsene Wenger insists he will return to training, along with Shkodran Mustafi, following an extended break after their Confederations Cup exploits.

Wenger said: “Alexis and Mustafi, their first training session will be on Sunday, the day we play against Sevilla [in the Emirates Cup].”

The French boss certainly believes Sanchez is staying despite strong interest from Manchester City.

Dybala wants Juventus stay

15:31: Paulo Dyabala insists he is happy at Juventus after being linked with a move to Barcelona.

Dybala is supposedly Barca’s top choice to replace Neymar if the Brazilian joins PSG.

But Argentine Dybala says he’s keen to stay in Turin.

“The transfer market? I’m happy here, I’m fine and over these days I’ll be training as hard as I can to have a great season,” he said.

Middlesbrough agree Fletcher deal

15:22: Middlesbrough have confirmed striker Ashley Fletcher is on the verge of joining from West Ham.

Boro claim they and West Ha, have come to an agreement on the striker, who will cost £7m.

“Boro have agreed a deal in principle with West Ham United to sign striker Ashley Fletcher,” the statement read.

“The former Manchester United youth player has left West Ham’s training camp in Germany and is heading to Boro for talks.”

Chelsea youngster snubbed Ipswich

15:16: Ipswich boss Mick McCarthy has revealed how he tried and failed to sign young Chelsea striker Ike Ugbo.

Ugbo has agreed a loan deal at Barnsley but the Tractor Boys made a move for the 18-year-old first.

McCarthy says he is struggling to recruit players and Chelsea’s Ugbo was convinced to head to Oakwell because the Tykes promised to play him.

“Barnsley have signed Ike Ugbo (on loan from Chelsea),” McCarthy said.

“I asked about him at the end of last season – I spoke to his agent and I spoke to Chelsea.

“I think Barnsley have promised him to play, but I wouldn’t promise anyone to play because that’s just nonsense.”

Sanches looking like a loan

14:43: Renato Sanches will only be allowed to leave Bayern Munich on loan, according to club CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.

AC Milan have been in talks with Bayern Munich about signing Sanches this summer, while Manchester United are long-term admirers.

And Bayern chief Rummenigge said: “I had a long talk with Renato and this is a story with an open ending.

“He does not necessarily want to leave, he wants to play. We all share this opinion.

“If it’s decided that he’ll leave, it would only be for a year long loan.

Roma leading Mahrez chase

14:00: Arsenal are losing the race with Roma for Leicester winger Riyad Mahrez – according to the bookies.

“Despite interest from a number of Premier League clubs, it is Italian side Roma who are looking likely to sign Leicester winger Riyad Mahrez and are priced at 6/5 to do so,” a BetStars spokesperson said. 

“The skilful 26-year-old is after a move away from the King Power Stadium where he was instrumental in securing Leicester’s Premier League title in 2016. 

“Arsenal are still to give up the hunt for Mahrez but have seen their odds lengthen to 5/2 since Roma ramped up their interest.”

West Ham eye Newcastle stopper

13:50: West Ham could reportedly be open to selling Adrian to Newcastle if they can land Karl Darlow in return.

The Hammers goalkeeping department has been shaken up this summer.

After the arrival of England’s No1 Joe Hart on a season-long loan from Manchester City, Darren Randolph left in a £5million switch to Middlesbrough.

And Adrian now looks likely to depart too as he eyes regular game time away from the London Stadium.

According to The Chronicle, Slaven Bilic’s side are interested in taking Darlow from Newcastle as part of an exchange deal.

The Chronicle add Benitez has identified Adrian as a player who can challenge for the No1 spot at Newcastle following their return to the top flight.

Chelsea favourites to sign Kane. Kind of…

13:45: Chelsea are ahead of Manchester United in the race for Harry Kane – but a Tottenham stay is still nailed on – according to the bookies.

The Spurs striker has repeatedly indicated he is not looking for a move away from north London.

And the England international sees his future in Mauricio Pochettino’s team.

However, links to Manchester United have never gone away.

And Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has now added to speculation surrounding Kane’s long-term commitment to Tottenham.

Ahead of the new season, the Blues boss said: “If I had to buy one striker, I would go to Kane. He is a complete striker.”

Following those claims last night, Sky Bet have made Chelsea 12/1 favourites to sign Kane this summer.

Barkley battle heats up

13:35: Arsenal have joined Tottenham and Manchester United in the race to sign Ross Barkley.

Ronald Koeman has confirmed Barkley is set to leave the club after telling the Dutchman he wants a new challenge.

And bookmakers Betway have installed Arsenal as second-favourites at 3/1.

Betway’s Alan Alger said: “With Arsenal priced out of a number of high-profile targets this summer, the betting suggests their attention has turned to Ross Barkley with the Everton midfielder now 3/1 to join the Gunners in this transfer window.

“Barkley looked set to join Spurs this summer but they’ve drifted from 8/11 to 4/5, while a move to Manchester United certainly shouldn’t be ruled out at 8/1 with Mourinho a long-time admirer of the Evertonian.”

Liverpool value Coutinho at £134m

13:30: Liverpool have reportedly slapped a £134million price-tag on Philippe Coutinho to ward off interest from Barcelona.

Barcelona have been linked with a move for Philippe Coutinho this summer amid uncertainty surrounding Neymar’s future at the Nou Camp.

The La Liga side reportedly sent their Brazilian representative Andre Cuty to London this week to hold talks with Coutinho’s people.

However, Liverpool are in no mood to sell and have reacted by sticking a whopping £134m price-tag on the midfielder.

Spanish newspaper Sport claim the Reds have increased the asking price in the hope of scaring off Barca.

The Catalan side are reportedly only willing to pay in the region of £70m for the former Inter Milan star.

Done Deal: Gomes signs two-year contract

13:25: Watford goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes has signed a new two-year contract.

Gomes has made 122 appearances for the Hornets and his new deal will run until June 2019.

“Watford FC is delighted to announce that goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes has signed a new two-year deal with the club,” a club statement read.

“The 36-year-old has put pen to paper on a contract which takes him through to June 2019.”

Sanchez talks collapse 

13:20: Arsenal have suffered a breakdown in communication with Alexis Sanchez’s advisors.

The Gunners are still hopeful of persuading their star forward to sign a new contract at the Emirates.

But there’s been a setback.

According to the Daily Mail, discussions have now collapsed between Arsenal and Sanchez’s advisors. 

The Gunners have offered the Chile international an improved contract worth £275,000 a week.

That would also increase by up to 20 per cent should Arsenal return to the Champions League.

However, the Daily Mail add the prospect of Sanchez signing fresh terms is looking bleaker than ever.

Mou and Pogba’s friendly chat with Neymar

13:10: Neymar chatted to Paul Pogba and Jose Mourinho in the tunnel before Barcelona’s friendly with Manchester United – then scored the winner.

Neymar scored the only goal of the game to condemn United to a first pre-season defeat after wins over Real Madrid and Manchester City.

But social media was more interested in what happened off the pitch with the Brazilian superstar seen exchanging words with Mourinho and Pogba.

MUTV, United’s in-house TV channel, captured Neymar chatting with Pogba in the tunnel before kick-off, before embracing Mourinho who had a quiet word in his ear.

Mourinho and Neymar were all smiles, prompting many over-excited fans to speculate over what was said between the trio.

Michy’s staying

13:00: Michy Batshuayi is set to stay at Chelsea after impressing Antonio Conte.

A loan exit had looked likely, with West Ham linked as well as a potential return to France.

But the London Evening Standard claim Batshuayi’s impressive form in pre-season and good attitude means he is now expected to stay.

Batshuayi has got on the scoresheet against Bayern Munich, Fulham and Arsenal during pre-season.

Kammy backs Liverpool to sign VVD

12:50: Jurgen Klopp has been left frustrated with Liverpool’s transfer business so far – but Virgil van Dijk could still join, according to pundit Chris Kamara.

Southampton’s centre-half remains on the Reds’ radar, despite them having to publicly apologise last month after an alleged illegal approach.

“As far as Jurgen Klopp’s concerned, he’s probably targeting players and not been able to bring in the players he wanted,” Kamara told the Daily Star.

“Or the price of them is more than he expected to pay.

“The Van Dijk issue earlier on in the window was strange because it looked like he was on his way and then it didn’t happen.

“It might still happen and I’m sure he has targets, but he’s been quiet so far.”

Little love for Lucas

12:45: Deportivo La Coruna have made the best offer for Arsenal forward Lucas Perez, according to his agent Rodrigo Fernandez.

“I’m waiting for Arsenal to come back to me, but the best offer they have on the table for Lucas is from Deportivo,” Fernandez told Spanish newspaper Voz de Galicia.

“At Arsenal they know he’s going to play very little there and they know that Deportivo want him. 

“It would be good for everyone to sell Lucas Perez. We have to convince them.”

Hull set to sign Michael Hector

12:30: Hull are close to signing Chelsea defender Michael Hector.

The Blues have a number of fringe players gaining first-team experience elsewhere, and Hector has also been cleared to leave Stamford Bridge.

Sky Sports claim the 25-year-old will become Hull’s fifth summer signing having agreed a season-long loan at the KCOM.

Manager Leonid Slutsky has close ties with Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, who helped him secure the Championship role.

Sanches saga takes another twist

12:15: Italian agent Oscar Damiani has cast doubts over AC Milan’s pursuit of Renato Sanches.

The Bayern Munich midfielder is expected to leave the Allianz Arena having failed to establish himself since arriving from Benfica in May 2016.

Manchester United were expected to secure his services on a season-long loan before AC Milan become firm-favourites.

However, the story could take another turn with Damiani unsure whether the Serie A side can afford him.

He told TMW: “He is a player who probably has great potential, but he has no tactical intelligence.

“I do not think AC Milan will invest €40million (£35m) for this player, who has played very little with Bayern Munich. I think it could happen, but only in the form of a loan.”

Zidane quiet on transfer speculation

12:00 Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has done little to clarify his side’s transfer plans.

The LaLiga champions are looking to sign Kylian Mbappe, while the futures of Gareth Bale, Marco Asensio and Karim Benzema are unclear.

Asked about transfers and the superstar trio, Zidane said: “I’m a coach, you have to talk to someone else about whether or not he is worth it. At the moment nothing’s happened, we are with this squad.

“I hope all of them are here, but until August 31, anything can happen.”

Pereira eyeing Mou’s starting XI

11:45: Andreas Pereira thinks his pre-season performances are showing Jose Mourinho that he’s capable of playing a significant role this season.

Pereira, 21, has done his hopes no harm with some impressive performances on United’s American pre-season tour, featuring in all five matches and impressing when starting against Real Madrid.

“For me I think it is going well,” he said.

“I am doing my best, I want to get into the team this season. I want to help my team and hopefully we can achieve a lot this season.”

Conte defends transfer policy

11:30: Antonio Conte has insisted Chelsea were right to offload home-grown player Nathaniel Chalobah in favour of new signing Tiemoue Bakayoko.

Chelsea have been busy this summer bringing in Alvaro Morata, Antonio Rudiger and Tiemoue Bakayoko for a combined fee of around £120million.

However, their arrival has come at the expense of a number of the Blues home-grown players who have left in their droves this summer.

Nathan Ake was sold to Bournemouth, while Ruben Loftus-Cheek joined Crystal Palace on loan and Nathaniel Chalobah made a permanent move to Watford.

However, Antonio Conte has defended his decision to bring in Bakayoko while allowing Chalobah to depart, insisting their gulf in class is huge.

“I think, honestly, at this moment there is a great difference between the two players,” the former Juventus boss said.

“You are talking about one player who has played with Monaco, who has maybe 100 appearances for that club.

“He has played in the Champions League and has played regularly. Try to understand the difference before you judge. People who do, do not understand the difference.”

Liverpool understand Coutinho danger

11:15: Liverpool are fully aware of the consequences that selling Philippe Coutinho could have on Jurgen Klopp’s project.

A bid of £72million has already been turned down this summer, but a second offer of around £80m is expected to be tabled next by the Catalan giants.

With Coutinho such an integral part of Klopp’s team and Liverpool’s long-term project, his departure would have serious knock-on effects.

The Independent add Liverpool’s hierarchy understand any sale at this stage would damage the club’s progress.

Ozil praises ex-Arsenal talent

11:00: Chris Willock was a very good and hungry player, according to Arsenal star Mesut Ozil.

Willock, 19, recently joined Benfica on a free transfer having decided to seek regular first-team football elsewhere.

And Ozil was sorry to see him leave.

He said: “He trained with us now and then, and was a very good player, very hungry,” Ozil told Arsenal Player. “I wish him all the best there.

“For him it’s an opportunity to show his former club what he can do.”

Forsberg staying with RB Leipzig

10:50: RB Leipzig midfielder Emil Forsberg has distanced himself from a move to England.

Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United have all been linked with the 25-year-old Swedish international, who was thought to be unhappy with the club’s management.

But Forsberg has moved quickly to dispel the claims, and committed his immediate future to the Bundesliga outfit.

“No, why should there be? What have I said that is negative about Leipzig? Nothing. I have only said positive things about Leipzig. I do not understand the worries,” he said.

“For me, everything is right. I am very motivated, focused and I want to make an even better season with RB than I have done before.”

Rudiger in training

10:45: Antonio Rudiger has been training with his Chelsea team-mates for the first time.

The Blues new boy had an extended break after his involvement in the Confederations Cup with Germany. 

He linked up with Chelsea in Singapore this week and underwent an individual training session before their friendly defeat to Bayern Munich on Tuesday.

But the defender looked sharp as he trained with his team-mates for the first time as the squad were put through their paces at their pre-season base in Singapore.

Sparky open to more Chelsea loanees

10:30: Mark Hughes is prepared to welcome more Chelsea players to Stoke.

The Potters recently signed centre-back Kurt Zouma on a season-long loan, and have already seen Victor Moses and Marco van Ginkel at the Bet365 Stadium.

Hughes said: “Our relationship at Chelsea in terms of bringing previous loan players in – Victor Moses and Marco van Ginkel, which wasn’t quite as successful – but they understand what we can give players and they know they are getting the right and correct work.

“They are more than happy to recommend that their good players come to us. We will keep doing that in the future I’m sure.”

Middlesbrough agree Fletcher deal

10:15: Middlesbrough have agreed a fee for West Ham striker Ashley Fletcher.

Sky Sports claim Garry Monk’s side will pay £7million for the 21-year-old, who didn’t score in 16 Premier League appearances last season.

Fletcher will now undergo a medical at Middlesbrough’s training facility before being officially unveiled.

Inter say Perisic interest is cooling

10:00: Inter Milan representatives think Manchester United are losing interest in Ivan Perisic.

The Red Devils have found Inter stubborn in negotiations for the Croatia international, but that’s NOT the reason Jose Mourinho’s looking elsewhere.

Italian station Premium Sport claim Inter think that United are cooling interest because they genuinely believe Gareth Bale will become available.

Neymar is happy – Valverde

09:45: Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde has dismissed talk of Neymar joining Manchester United this summer.

The Brazil international has been the focus of attention in recent weeks amid talk of a huge £196million move to Paris Saint-Germain.

And the 25-year-old caused a stir when he was spotted chatting with Jose Mourinho before the match, sparking speculation of a move to United on social media.

However, Barca manager Ernesto Valverde dismissed the rumours and insisted Neymar was merely happy to see old friends, including Mourinho.

“The news on Neymar is that he is very happy talking to his Manchester friends,” the former Athletic Bilbao boss said.

“There is no further news, except that he is still with us, which for us is very good.

Conte: This would be a tragedy

09:30: Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool MUST challenge for trophies every year, according to Antonio Conte.

The Italian tactician collected the Premier League title during his debut season, and has described not competing for silverware as a “tragedy”.

He told the Daily Mail: “My question is this: What are Tottenham’s expectations?

“If they don’t win the title it’s not a tragedy. If they don’t arrive in the Champions League it’s not a tragedy. If they go out in the first round of the Champions League it’s not a tragedy. If they go out in the Europa League against Gent, it’s not a tragedy.

“Maybe for Chelsea, Arsenal, City and United and, I don’t know, Liverpool, it is a tragedy. You must understand the status of the team. If Barcelona does not compete for the title it’s a tragedy.”

Five unhappy galacticos

09:15: Five Real Madrid players are unhappy about the prospect of signing Kylian Mbappe.

The Champions League winners are challenging for the 18-year-old’s signature, but not everyone would welcome his arrival.

Spanish publication Diario Gol claim the likes of Sergio Ramos, Gareth Bale, Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema are worried about his wage demands.

And don’t think he should be paid the same as established Bernabeu stars like Kroos of Benzema, who earn £150,000 a-week.

Barca boss fears United draw

09:00: Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde believes Manchester United are back on the up – and would not want to face them in this year’s Champions League.

Neymar’s first-half strike was the difference in the 1-0 International Champions Cup win in Washington, although United’s overall display and recruitment power makes Valverde wary of Jose Mourinho’s resurgent United.

“Obviously it hasn’t been well lately, but I mean they won the Europa League,” the Barca head coach said.

“This year they are going to be in the Champions League. Their presence by itself is impressive. They impress. I think they are going to be a really hard team to beat.

“For me, they are contenders to win and they are going to be hard to beat in the Premier League and the Champions League. I wouldn’t want to face them in the Champions League.”

Mbappe favours Arsene

08:45: Arsenal still have a glimmer of hope in their long-running pursuit of Kylian Mbappe, reports claim.

The Independent reported yesterday that Real Madrid are preparing a mammoth £160million bid for the Monaco superstar.

But French newspaper L’Equipe think Arsenal are in the running.

The report says Mbappe would prefer to work with Arsene Wenger ahead of any manager he’s spoken with this summer, and Arsenal have the financial muscle to complete the deal.

Sissoko needs clarity – Lloris

08:30: Tottenham midfielder Moussa Sissoko must seek clarity on his future at the club or risk losing his place in the French squad ahead of next year’s World Cup, according to goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

The 27-year-old France international made only eight Premier League starts last campaign and was left out of Spurs’ pre-season tour of the United States with a virus.

“Moussa is important for the French national team,” France and Spurs captain Lloris told reporters.

“He needs to play, obviously, more than last season. But then it’s a question of choices.

“It doesn’t belong to me, it belongs to him and we will see what will happen. It’s not an easy situation for him, for the team and for the manager.”

Coutinho to Barcelona odds cut

08:00: Barcelona have seen their odds cut by the bookies to sign Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho.

Barca are said to have made a £72million bid for Coutinho this summer, which was swiftly turned down by Liverpool.

But bookmakers Betfair reckon a deal could still be reached between the two clubs, with his odds cutting from 2/1 to evens to move to the Nou Camp.

New Barca manager Ernesto Valverde has set his sights on the Brazil international with reports suggesting he could lose Neymar this summer.

Rafa close to Merino deal

07:30: The Evening Chronicle reports that Newcastle are on the brink of completing a deal for Dortmund midfielder Mikel Merino.

Rafael Benitez sees the Spain Under-21 holding midfielder as an ideal partner in the middle of the park for Jonjo Shelvey. 

Merino is believed to be on Tyneside and putting the final touches to a move.

Koeman’s not finished yet

07:00: The Daily Mirror says that Everton boss Ronald Koeman has not finished his recruitment drive.

The Dutchman is reportedly keen on adding three more players to his squad. 

Koeman wants to sign a central defender, striker and Swansea midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson. 

The Everton manager confirmed Ross Barkley is on his way out of Goodison Park but he does not need to sell the England midfielder to fund the moves.

Stoke, Everton & Palace eye Collins

06:30: Everton are set to join the race to sign West Ham defender James Collins, writes The Sun. 

The Toffees have been active in the transfer market this summer and will face competition from Crystal Palace and Stoke for the 33-year-old.

Collins has a year remaining on his contract with the Hammers but a fee in the region of £2m could be enough to pry him away from West Ham.

Arsenal could move for Jean-Michael Seri

06:00: Arsenal could step up their interest of Nice midfielder Jean-Michael Seri. 

That is according to French outlet L’Equipe, who claim the Gunners still hold a ‘real interest’ in the Ivory Coast international and could make a move for him. 

It is said the Premier League giants have not yet made an offer to try and bring him to the Emirates, but Arsene Wenger is a keen admirer and has a long-standing interest in the player. 

The report adds the player himself is apparently fond of Wenger and, should a bid be made, he could be keen on a move to the north London club. 

Liverpool’s Rakitic/Coutinho swap deal

05:30: Barcelona are set to include Ivan Rakitic in their bid to prise Philippe Coutinho away from Liverpool, according to reports.

The Brazil international has reportedly agreed personal terms with the Catalan giants with all that remains is the two clubs to agree on a fee.

Express Sport understands Barcelona are willing to offer the Reds a huge £80million to part with their star asset.

Jurgen Klopp wants to retain Coutinho for the forthcoming season but fresh claims are saying a fee of £89m could tempt the German into selling.

However, Spanish outlet Diario Gol are saying Barcelona are willing to include Rakitic in their latest offer.

Ivan Perisic in line for Inter Milan deal

05:00: Inter Milan are reportedly lining up a contract extension for Ivan Perisic to ward off interest from Manchester United.

Perisic has been continually linked with a move to Manchester United, with Jose Mourinho keen to improve his options on the flank.

The Serie A giants are looking to raise funds as they aim to get their hands on the Italian title.

And according to Football Italia, Inter are convinced United won’t come back with a fresh offer or include Anthony Martial in a prospective deal.

It is said a contract extension is being drawn up and the intention is to make him the star of the team.

Arsenal’s stunning Gareth Bale approach

04:30: Arsenal sensationally approached Real Madrid over a deal for Gareth Bale earlier in the transfer window, according to shock reports in Spain.

Arsenal are examining their options out wide with the future of Alexis Sanchez far from certain.

Bale, meanwhile, is facing an uncertain future over at Real Madrid on the back of a season that saw him fall behind Isco in the pecking order. 

Manchester United are reportedly interested in bringing him to Old Trafford, and are ready to pounce should they receive any encouragement a move is feasible.

But Spanish outlet Don Balon are sensationally reporting Arsenal approached Real Madrid over a deal for Bale earlier in the transfer window.