Football transfer news expert Fabrizio Romano has given updates on the latest headlines from the market, with exciting news regarding Alexander Isak, a big update from Chelsea and the latest at Manchester United.
Madrid giants making moves
Romano kicked off by detailing some significant movement in La Liga, where Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid have both been active.
He told his YouTube channel: “Atletico Madrid have signed Giacomo Raspadori from Napoli. Deal done. He’s on his way to Madrid for medical tests and contract signing. It’s a five-year deal. Napoli receive €22 million plus €3m in easy add-ons and €1m in difficult add-ons. Raspadori goes to Atletico Madrid.
Ronaldo to be joined by new star at Al-Nassr
Big moves continue to take place in the Saudi Pro League, with Cristiano Ronaldo set to be joined at Al-Nassr by a fellow Champions League winner.
Romano explained: “Kingsley Coman to Al-Nassr is a work in progress. Al-Nassr have made an official bid to Bayern Munich for the player. There’s a negotiation between the clubs. Bayern are open to selling the player. I’m told, Coman is not closing the doors.
“Jorge Jesus wanted to sign him at Al-Hilal in January and is now the manager at Al-Nassr. He’s driving this move. After Inigo Martinez, on his way for a medical, and Joao Felix, it’s now Coman. My understanding is this move has a very good chance of happening.”
Isak firm on Liverpool transfer stance
Alexander Isak continues to pose Newcastle a problem, with the Sweden international reiterating that he will not sign a new contract with the club.
Romano said: “Isak has told Newcastle again this week that he is not willing to sign a new contract at the club. They tried again earlier this week, but the player has no intention to sign a new contract at Newcastle. He still wants to go to Liverpool so this story remains absolutely on.”
Newcastle in striker hunt
This has prompted Newcastle to step up their search for new forwards.
“Nicolas Jackson is out at Chelsea. He will leave the club for sure. There’s still interest from Newcastle. They have an active interest in him,” Romano said. “Meanwhile, Randal Kolo Muani is not an option for Newcastle. He’s focused on joining Juventus, the only destination he’s considering.
“There are many reports of an £80m price tag for Jackson but the feeling in the industry is that this fee can be negotiated.
“Newcastle are interested but he’s not the only name. They have two or three names on their shortlist.
“Obviously, this will have a massive impact on Alexander Isak. If Newcastle can make two signings for the striker position, with a deal for Yoane Wissa from Brentford advancing, that could be important. Wissa plus one more striker, could mean a lot for Isak.”
More Chelsea exits
Nicolas Jackson is leaving Chelsea, but so too will be Christopher Nkunku.
“On Chelsea, we’ve said about Jackson but there’s also Axel Disasi who will leave the club, Raheem Sterling, Renato Veiga and also more,” Romano says.
“Christopher Nkunku is out of the project. Chelsea and Nkunku absolutely want to part ways. There’s interest from Germany. Let’s see what happens with Bayern, where he’s always been appreciated. He could be an option for Inter if they don’t sign Ademola Lookman, who is their priority. So there is some movement for Nkunku.”
Baleba to Man Utd talks ongoing
Finally, Man Utd continue to probe for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, even if they are not particularly optimistic that a deal can be done.
Romano explains: “For Manchester United, they’re fully focused on Sesko but contacts with Carlos Baleba are still ongoing. They still believe a deal is very complicated. But I’m told they’re still in touch.
“Brighton would require aa big fee for Baleba. But Man Utd have made their steps. They’re quite calm and seeing if there’s a door open. Baleba is loved by Ruben Amorim. It won’t be a quick deal at all. Brighton don’t want to sell the player this summer. Maybe next summer after the World Cup there could be a conversation.”
