Manchester United has upset Southampton by their pursuit of Jason Wilcox, while Arsenal and Tottenham are competing for a striker worth £100 million, according to reports.
Saints ‘Fury’ at Man Utd
In a move that has left Southampton fuming, Manchester United has made an approach for the Championship club’s director of football, according to multiple reports including the Telegraph. The Saints are considering making Wilcox serve his full year’s notice unless United increases their compensation offer. This presents a fresh obstacle for Sir Jim Ratcliffe in his bid to rejuvenate the Red Devils.
Wilcox, who has received praise for his recruitment work at Manchester City and Southampton, joined the latter just last summer. United has targeted him to help steer their transfer strategy under the new structure led by Ratcliffe and Sir Dave Brailsford. However, negotiations have hit a snag, with Southampton unhappy about the financial offer and the timing of the approach during a critical stage of their Premier League promotion push.
There were initial reports that Wilcox had already tendered his resignation. However, Southampton manager Russell Martin revealed that he had heard from Wilcox immediately after the team’s agonizing 3-2 defeat against Ipswich Town. Despite only working at the club for just over nine months, Wilcox has a 12-month notice period in his contract.
Arsenal v Spurs
The Sun reports that Arsenal and Tottenham could be in a battle this summer for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak. Both clubs are prepared to bid around £100m for the Swedish striker, but Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is determined to keep him. However, Newcastle has financial fair play concerns, and selling one of their star players could help them rebuild in the long run.
Isak, 23, has been in fine form this season, scoring 14 Premier League goals in 21 games, including two penalties in Saturday’s 4-3 win over West Ham. Since joining Newcastle for a club-record fee of £60m in 2022, he has become a fan favorite with his direct running and eye for goal. But with fears that Newcastle may have to sell to comply with FFP rules, especially if they fail to secure a European place, offers from Champions League clubs may be hard to ignore.
Newcastle Want Ramsdale
According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle United has reignited their interest in Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale. Ramsdale has lost his starting place to David Raya this season and is seeking more regular game time. Newcastle hopes to lure the England international, who has previously played under Eddie Howe.
Newcastle’s current number one is Martin Dubravka, with Nick Pope expected to return from a dislocated shoulder at the end of April. However, Dubravka is 35 years old, while Pope turns 32 this month. Newcastle is looking for a younger option as they plan for the next phase of their recruitment. Manager Eddie Howe is a big admirer of Ramsdale, having signed him at Bournemouth from Sheffield United. Ramsdale has previously praised Howe for giving him a second chance after a disciplinary issue, describing it as a turning point in his career.
Liverpool Tracking Palmeiras Prospect Luis Guilherme
Liverpool is reportedly among several clubs scouting Palmeiras teenager Luis Guilherme, according to the Daily Mail. The 18-year-old has already represented Brazil’s U20 team and has impressed in several club matches. Liverpool is one of several Premier League and European clubs showing interest in the young talent.
Palmeiras has a track record of producing talented players, including Gabriel Jesus, who was sold to Manchester City, and Endrick, who recently joined Real Madrid. Nottingham Forest also acquired Danilo from the club.