Transfer news: the latest on the futures of Federico Chiesa, Rodri and Matthijs de Ligt
The transfer window has been open for a couple of weeks and some clubs are clearly not in the mood to hang around.
Real Madrid’s rebuild is well underway, having signed Frankfurt striker Luka Jovic in an effort to give Zinedine Zidane some much-needed firepower.
Borussia Dortmund have also come flying out of the blocks as they look to go one better and finally end Bayern Munich’s seven-year grip on the Bundesliga title.
However, although there are plenty of done deals to discuss, we’re here to dissect the latest rumours, reports and speculation surrounding the key players who are likely to be on the move this summer.
Matthijs de Ligt is still the name on the majority of supporters’ lips. The Dutchman shone for Ajax last term and continues to be linked to the world’s biggest clubs as he prepares to dismantle England’s Nations League dreams on Thursday night.
Frenkie de Jong has already joined Barcelona but it remains unclear as to who is going to win the race to sign De Ligt with Manchester City United and Liverpool both also mentioned as possible destinations for the teenager.
The first defender to be named Golden Boy in the award’s 15-year history.
Matthijs de Ligt. 🇳🇱🏆 pic.twitter.com/02szMMi3a5
— Squawka (@Squawka) December 17, 2018
De Ligt seems certain to be heading to pastures new but Bayer Leverkusen are determined to retain the services of Kai Havertz.
The 19-year-old has just enjoyed a superb breakthrough campaign, scoring 17 Bundesliga goals, prompting reports that Bayern Munich may well come calling.
Leverkusen have ruled out a summer departure – but the Bavarians rarely fail to secure their transfer targets within German football, such is the pulling power of the Allianz Arena.
Elsewhere, Atletico Madrid midfielder Rodri has asked for a bit of ‘space’ as he decides his future, fuelling the fire in regards to doubts about his role in Diego Simeone’s project, while Fiorentina’s Federico Chiesa is a wanted man in Serie A.
Meanwhile, James Maddison has emerged as a target for Manchester United, who have been crying out for some David Beckham-esque deliveries into the box for some time.
The Leicester City midfielder created more chances than any other player in the Premier League last season and certainly looks primed to make an impact at a top-six club.
Watch the video at the top of the article to get your latest transfer fix on the likes of Maddison, Havertz, De Ligt and others.
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