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Nick Judd, Transfer writer
The transfer window might be shut across Europe’s top five leagues, but the rumour mill keeps on turning! Transfer Talk brings you all the latest buzz, comings, goings and, of course, done deals!
TOP STORY: Man City face clearout if found guilty
A number of top European clubs are looking to pounce on Manchester City‘s stars if the club is found guilty of fraud, according to the Mirror.
The outlet says that Real Madrid are targeting Ballon d’Or contender Rodri, while the likes of Erling Haaland, Phil Foden and Kevin De Bruyne have all been linked with moves if City are suspended or worse.
City — who drew 2-2 in a fiery clash with Arsenal on Sunday — continue to protest their innocence against 115 charges leveled against them in a hearing that started last week, and which is set to continue for the next 10 weeks. However, that hasn’t stopped a number of clubs preparing to act if the Citizens suffer significant sanctions.
Several agents representing the City squad are also said to have contacted the club for clarity, with the players themselves increasingly worried about the possible impact if the Man City are found guilty of any wrongdoing.
PAPER GOSSIP
– Daniele de Rossi’s dismissal as AS Roma boss — and the subsequent resignation of chief executive Lina Souloukou — could have an impact on Paulo Dybala‘s long-term future at the club, according to Calciomerato. There was reportedly a festering disagreement between De Rossi and Souloukou over how many games the Argentine should play; the result of which was a clause in Dybala’s contract that stated if he played more than 14 times, a renewal would automatically be triggered. A potential renewal could potentially see Roma have to fork out up to €30 million over its duration, meaning a move in January could become a distinct possibility.
– Barcelona lead a number of clubs — including some from the Premier League — interested in PSV Eindhoven midfielder Jerdy Schouten, according to Fabrizio Romano. Barca scouts are among those in regular attendance to see the 27-year-old in action, but they could be put off by the Dutch club’s valuation of €35m.
– Sport believes Alphonso Davies will leave Bayern Munich for Real Madrid next summer, with this season nothing more than a “long goodbye.” Canada full-back Davies’ contract ends in June next year and so is free to negotiate with other clubs in January. Bayern have so far failed to persuade the in-demand 23-year-old to renew his contract and now risk losing him for nothing.
– Manchester City will battle Real Madrid for the signature of Bayern Munich star Jamal Musiala, according to Teamtalk. The Citizens are said to be preparing a £84m bid for the 21-year-old, but Madrid are looking to add to their firepower, with an injury to Brahim Díaz exposing a lack of depth in their attacking department. Manchester United and Liverpool are also said to be monitoring the situation.
– Real Madrid are monitoring RB Leipzig central defender Castello Lukeba, according to Marca. Los Blancos watched the Frenchman in action against Atletico Madrid in Champions League action last week, and they believe the 21-year-old — who has debuted for the France national team — could be a long-term star. Lukeba is reportedly valued at around €40m.
