Transfer speculation: Real Madrid interested in Liverpool’s Ekitike as an alternative to Haaland
Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike has become an appealing target for Real Madrid, while Juventus winger Francisco Conceição is being considered as a possible substitute for the outgoing Mohamed Salah. Stay tuned for the latest updates on transfers and rumors from across the football world.
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TRENDING RUMORS
– Real Madrid may pursue a new star striker in the summer of 2027, with Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike emerging as a compelling option, as reported by TEAMtalk. The 23-year-old has caught their attention following a notable debut season on Merseyside, where he netted 17 goals in 42 matches. Consequently, Ekitike’s status at Liverpool is being “closely monitored” by Los Blancos, who are also interested in Manchester City forward Erling Haaland, although they have been deterred by a €200 million asking price.
– Liverpool has identified Juventus winger Francisco Conceiçao as a potential successor for the departing Mohamed Salah, according to Gazzetta dello Sport. The 23-year-old Portugal international has contributed to six goals in Serie A this season, having transferred to Juve last summer from FC Porto for €32 million and is contracted until 2030. While the Italian club would prefer to retain Conceiçao, it is believed that an offer exceeding €25 million could prompt discussions.
– Manchester United is in a strong position to acquire Toulouse center back Charlie Cresswell this summer, as stated by TEAMtalk. Cresswell, 23, is regarded as one of the top young English defenders and has previously drawn interest from West Ham, Sunderland, and Tottenham Hotspur. However, United aims to bolster their defense, and the Ligue 1 club is expected to demand a fee in the range of €25 million-€30 million.
– Manchester City is ahead of Manchester United in the competition to sign Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, according to The Daily Mail. Anderson, 25, is City’s top priority for transfers this summer, although his expected participation for England in the World Cup could complicate their efforts. Both Manchester clubs are cautious that a standout performance at the tournament could further elevate his £100 million valuation. Nevertheless, United remains committed to pursuing Anderson, with meetings still scheduled with the player’s representatives.
– Barcelona is set to pursue Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup if a permanent agreement for Marcus Rashford cannot be reached, as reported by Record. The Portuguese outlet indicates that Benfica anticipates losing their star forward this summer, who is garnering interest from numerous clubs across Europe. Schjelderup, who recently scored his first senior goal for Norway, has a €100 million release clause in his contract.
EXPERT TAKE
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OTHER RUMORS
– Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali may be permitted to leave this summer, with Manchester United leading the pursuit. (Sun)
– Manchester United could target Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes, 25, who might be available for around £40 million if Wolves are relegated. (Caught Offside)
– Arsenal and Manchester City are poised to sign Tino Livramento if Newcastle United fails to finalize a new contract with the fullback. (Football Insider)
– Bayern Munich is not actively seeking a transfer for Manchester City’s Phil Foden, as his transfer value significantly exceeds their budget for an attacking player. (Bild)
– Raphaël Guerreiro may join Benfica after announcing his decision to depart Bayern at the season’s conclusion. The Bavarian club has already targeted Feyenoord’s Givairo Read as a potential replacement. (Christian Falk)
– Joshua Zirkzee is keen to remain at Manchester United next season, believing he will receive opportunities under current head coach Michael Carrick. (Daily Mail)
– Real Madrid has received renewed optimism in their attempts to sign Nico Schlotterbeck, following the defender’s denial of reports claiming he has agreed to a new contract with Borussia Dortmund. (AS)
– Chelsea left back Marc Cucurella has not ruled out a future return to his former club, Barcelona. (Sun)
– Highly regarded Midtjylland forward Franculino Djú is attracting interest from several clubs in the Premier League, LaLiga, and Bundesliga. (Footmercato)
Juventus defender Gleison Bremer has a €54 million release clause in his contract that will become active on July 1. (Nicolo Schira)
– AC Milan, Napoli, Porto, and PSV are interested in 20-year-old Augsburg midfielder Mert Kömür, who could be on the move this summer if a suitable offer is made. (Sky Germany)
– Hoffenheim is working to extend Turkish international Ozan Kabak‘s contract at the club, which is set to expire at the end of the season. (Sky Germany)
