Transfer Talk: Varane set to be free agent in summer 2024،
The winter transfer window has not yet reopened in Europe, but movements are underway and a lot of gossip is circulating. Transfer Talk brings you all the latest buzz on rumors, comings and goings and, of course, done deals!
TOP STORY: Varane could be without a club this summer
Raphaël VaraneReal Madrid's contract is set to expire a year earlier than expected and could leave the Frenchman without a club this summer, according to The Athletic.
The centre-back has struggled with injuries throughout his time at Old Trafford and it emerged earlier this month that United would consider accepting a transfer offer in January.
That outcome seems even more likely, with The Athletic reporting that Varane's contract – signed upon his arrival from Real Madrid for £34million in 2021 – actually expires in June 2024, with an option for a further year.
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The 30-year-old will be free to discuss a move away from the club in January and could sign a pre-contract agreement to secure a free transfer during the summer window.
With Harry MaguireFollowing his recent improvement in form, Varane has reportedly been frustrated by the lack of playing time and there appears to be tension between him and manager Erik ten Hag.
United manager recently opted to play at full-back Luke Shaw in central defense ahead of Varane in United's recent 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth.
Paper gossip
– Napoli reached an agreement with Chelsea and Arsenal target Victor Osimhenreports Fabrizio Romano. The Nigerian frontman had been linked with a move away from Napoli after a series of bizarre TikTok videos from the club's official account for which they have since apologized. The final value of the clause, which will add an extra year to the 24-year-old's existing contract, is currently unknown, but could amount to around €130 million according to reports. Osimhen was instrumental last season in helping Napoli win their first Serie A title in 33 years, where he scored 26 goals.
– Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi is on Brentford's wishlist, greatly boosting Arsenal's hopes of signing Ivan Toney, according to TEAMtalk. Furuhashi, 28, has scored 62 times in 106 appearances for Celtic and can play as both a center forward and on the wing. Toney, who is currently serving a ban until January for breaching betting rules, is highly sought after by Arsenal but a move could be hampered by Brentford offering Toney a lucrative new contract.
– Arsenal and Liverpool scouts eyed 17-year-old Leeds United star Archie Gray in action against Sunderland yesterday, Ekrem Konur reported. The young central midfielder – who has also appeared at right-back this season – has been valued at £40 million by his club. Liverpool were linked with Gray last month, who recently said his childhood dream was to win the Champions League with Leeds.
– Crystal Palace prepares offer for Juventus star Matias Soulè — a goal for Tottenham and Newcastle — in January, according to Corriere dello Sport. The 20-year-old Argentine has seven goals in 13 appearances on loan at Frosinone this season, and Juventus are reportedly ready to accept a £30million offer for his services. Tottenham had already opened discussions over a potential deal for Soule, who would undoubtedly be an important signing for Roy Hodgson's side – who have scored just 15 times in their 16 league matches.
– Barcelona categorically ruled out a swap deal involving the Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho And Raphinha, reported Mundo Deportivo. Sancho, 23, has been left out of the United squad since a major row with manager Erik ten Hag in September and United are understood to have recently approached Barcelona over the possibility of a swap deal for Raphinha. Mundo Deportivo has since reported that the La Liga giants are not interested in letting go of Raphinha. The 26-year-old former Leeds winger has 29 goals in 65 appearances since joining Barca in 2022.
