Transfer Talk: Barcelona to recall Chadi Riad from Real Betis،
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!
– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (US)
TOP STORY: Barça to trigger buyout clause for Riad
Barcelona plans strategic changes ahead of 2024-25 season, with central defender Riad Chadi back from Real Betis, and one of Andreas Christensen Or Jules Koundé go in summer.
That's according to Sport, who claim Barca have been so impressed with 20-year-old Chadi's performances that they are prepared to activate his €7m buyout clause at the end of the current campaign. Chadi left Barcelona last summer for €3.5 million, but has since become a regular starter under Manuel Pellegrini. A number of European clubs have been impressed with his form, which is why Barca are making their move now before Betis have the chance to let him go to someone else.
More importantly for Barca is that Chadi fits perfectly into the proposed and reduced salary structure for next season. All they have to do now is make sure they can part with one of Christensen, Kounde or Eric Garcia to allow some much-needed breathing space in the budget.
– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (US)
GOSSIP PAPER (by Nick Judd)
– Tottenham Hotspur looks to strengthen in the attacking department in January, and that of Bournemouth Dominique Solanke has become a surprise target, according to the Sun. Solanke, 26, who scored a hat-trick for the in-form Cherries against Nottingham Forest at the weekend, has scored 11 goals in 17 games, and Spurs are “keeping a close eye on” his progress. Los Blancos also reportedly keen on Brighton & Hove Albion striker EvanFerguson, but Solanke is considered a better prospect. Arsenal are also said to be monitoring Solanke's situation.
– Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez has indicated he is “very happy” at Manchester City amid reports linking him with a move to Real Madrid, according to the Mirror. Alvarez scored twice and added an assist in City's Club World Cup final victory over Fluminense last week. Real Madrid are among the clubs linked with a move for the 23-year-old, but the Argentine insists he just wants to keep winning trophies with City. “The truth is that I am very happy at Manchester City,” Alvarez said. “I've been at the club for just over a year. I'm very happy with everything we've achieved.”
– Manchester United are expected to be active on the transfer market in January, and their search for a center forward would now include Bologna. Joshua Zirkzeeaccording to the Sport1 journalist Christopher Michael. United struggle to find the net due to new striker Rasmus Hojlund having failed to meet expectations since moving this summer, and Marcus Rashford out of shape. United would prioritize an attacking player, but Zirkzee is a surprise candidate. The 22-year-old Dutchman has scored seven times this season, but United face competition from Bayern Munich, who have a buyout option of around €22 million.
– Manchester City are considering signing a City Football Group player, Girona star Savinho, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Italian journalist claims City have been impressed with the Italian winger's form so far this season, with the 19-year-old Brazilian helping on-loan club Girona climb to the top of the La Liga table. He scored five goals and added as many assists in 18 games during his loan spell at Troyes, which attracted the attention of Barcelona and Real Madrid. However, with Troyes affiliated with City owners, it is highly likely that the in-form star will move to Pep Guardiola's side, rather than join the team. Blaugrana.
– Inter Milan press to secure pursuit of Club Brugge and Canadian winger Tajon Buchanan ends as quickly as possible in January. This is according to Corriere Dello Sport, who report that Inter's situation is so desperate that they are focusing on the arrival of the 24-year-old as a priority. THE Nerazzurri are facing a shortage of players in large areas, made worse by the recent injury of Juan Cuadrado, who is facing a prolonged period of absence. Buchanan has previously said he has no intention of extending his contract in Belgium beyond 2025, but it is now up to Inter and Brugge to work out the details. Inter are keen to secure Buchanan on a loan with an option to buy, while Brugge are more hopeful of a deal worth around €12 million.
