Transfer Talk: Man City eye Reijnders as Rodri replacement
The winter transfer window won’t reopen in Europe for a while yet, but there are plenty of moves in the works and gossip swirling around. Transfer Talk brings you all the latest buzz on rumours, comings, goings and, of course, done deals!
TOP STORY: Milan look to ward off Reijnders suitors
AC Milan will look to extend the contract of midfielder Tijjani Reijnders amid interest from Manchester City and Barcelona, according to Corriere dello Sport.
Reijnders joined the Italian outfit in July 2023 from AZ Alkmaar and has been in impressive form this season, notching two goals and two assists across all competitions, including two goals in three UEFA Champions League appearances. Whilst the Dutchman is under contract until 2028, Milan have understandably been keen to further secure his future with the club.
The report reveals that Milan have made contact with Reijnders’ representatives regarding a potential new contract. It is understood that the hope from the Italian club is that they will be able to extend his deal by a further season, alongside an increase in salary. Reijnders is reportedly happy at the club, however, interest from elsewhere could see his head turn.
Manchester City and Barcelona are both circling the 26-year-old, with the latter being long-term admirers of the playmaker. The Catalan giants attempted to persuade Reijnders to make the move to the Spanish club in 2023, however, he opted for a switch to Milan instead. Manchester City, meanwhile, are reportedly plotting a January approach for Reijnders as they see him as the ideal replacement for the injured Rodri.
PAPER GOSSIP
– Napoli are considering a swoop for Girona defender Miguel Gutiérrez, according to Calciomercato. The report reveals that Napoli have been tracking the 23-year-old since the summer and are weighing up a potential move for the left-back. There is a clause in Gutiérrez’s contract that would allow the defender to move back to Real Madrid €9 million, though it is understood that Los Blancos are unlikely to exercise that option.
– Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford is unlikely to depart the club in January, reveals Football Insider. It has been reported that the 26-year-old could be set to leave Old Trafford after struggling for consistency under manager Erik ten Hag over the last couple seasons. The report reveals that while the likes of Paris Saint-Germain have held an interest in Rashford, it is not expected that any interested party will make an approach midseason.
– Internazionale and Juventus are both keen to secure a deal for Lille forward Jonathan David, per Calciomercato. The Canada international is out of contract with the French club next summer and it looks unlikely that he will extend his contract. This opens the opportunity for interested parties outside of France to secure David on a free transfer in January, which has led to several clubs in Europe to monitor the situation.
– Manchester United could entertain loan approaches in January for winger Antony, says Football Insider. The 24-year-old has struggled to impress at United leading to him falling down the pecking order at Old Trafford, making just two Premier League appearances from the bench this season. The report reveals that the Red Devils will likely entertain loan offers with an option to make this a permanent deal. Ajax Amsterdam, Crystal Palace and Newcastle United are all reportedly interested in the Brazil international.
