Kyle Walker may team up with Cristiano Ronaldo, while Arsenal is preparing for a significant offer for William Saliba.
Walker Set for Potential Reunion with Ronaldo at Al Nassr
In a surprising twist in the January transfer window, Kyle Walker could be on the verge of linking up with Cristiano Ronaldo at Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. According to reports from The Sun, the oil-rich club is one of three Saudi Pro League teams keen on securing the services of the Manchester City full-back. Walker has faced criticism amid his side’s dismal run of form, managing just two victories in their last 14 league outings.
The article highlights that Walker, who captains City, is enduring a challenging season but still has 18 months remaining on his contract at the Etihad Stadium. Last year, he hinted at the possibility of a move to the Middle East, stating he would “never say never.” However, he ultimately chose to remain in pursuit of silverware under Pep Guardiola.
Al Nassr, along with Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad, are reportedly eager to engage in discussions with the England international. However, a departure from City seems more plausible in the summer rather than this January, as Guardiola’s squad is currently grappling with a spate of injuries.
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Real Madrid Intensifies Pursuit of Saliba
Arsenal is bracing itself for a potential world-record bid for defender William Saliba, with Real Madrid reportedly keen on the Frenchman. The Sun has revealed that Los Blancos are contemplating a significant offer for the 22-year-old at the end of the season, which could reach a staggering £83 million.
Saliba has firmly established himself as one of Europe’s premier defenders over the past two years, and his stellar performances have caught the attention of several Champions League rivals. Spanish outlet SPORT claims that Real Madrid is preparing to make a move for the talented defender, but they will need to part with a hefty sum to secure his services.
Furthermore, it is reported that Real Madrid officials have already made contact with Saliba’s representatives and received a positive response, indicating that a transfer could be on the cards.
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Liverpool Reluctant to Part with Nunez
Liverpool are unlikely to entertain any offers for Darwin Nunez from AC Milan this month unless they have a replacement lined up, according to the Mail. The Uruguayan striker has struggled to find the back of the net this season, managing just four goals, despite The Reds currently sitting atop the Premier League table following a strong start under manager Arne Slot.
The Mail states that AC Milan has yet to make any formal approach for Nunez in the January transfer window. Earlier reports from Italy suggested that the Serie A giants were plotting a move for the forward, initially proposing a six-month loan with a £41.5 million obligation to buy in the summer.
However, Mail Sport understands that Liverpool has not received any communication from the Italian club regarding the striker. While it is still early in the transfer window and circumstances can change, it appears unlikely that Liverpool would allow Nunez to leave without securing a suitable replacement first.
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Aston Villa Persist in Pursuit of Malen
Aston Villa are not backing down in their negotiations with Borussia Dortmund over a potential move for Donyell Malen. The Mail reports that Villa’s initial offer of £15 million plus bonuses was rejected earlier this week, as it fell short of Dortmund’s £25 million asking price.
Negotiations between the two clubs are ongoing, with Villa rekindling their interest in the 25-year-old forward. Malen, who can operate across the front line but predominantly plays on the right wing, would provide Villa with added pace and depth in attacking positions, which manager Unai Emery is keen to bolster.
The Netherlands international has 18 months left on his contract at the Westfalenstadion and shares a strong rapport with Villa left-back Ian Maatsen, having played together at Dortmund and through the national team setup. Villa’s determination to secure Malen’s signature could lead to further developments in the coming weeks.