Premier League Transfer News: Wirtz, Rashford, Leeds and More

Liverpool Set to Smash Transfer Record for Florian Wirtz

Liverpool are closing in on a historic transfer by finalising the signing of Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz. After a series of rebuffed offers, the Premier League champions have reportedly reached a groundbreaking agreement with the German club valued at £116.1 million. This fee would surpass the previous Premier League record—Chelsea’s £115 million acquisition of Moisés Caicedo from Brighton in 2023.

The Reds will reportedly pay £100.1 million upfront, with an additional £16 million tied to performance-based clauses. Wirtz is expected to undergo his medical in Merseyside on Friday, according to The Athletic, and the official announcement should follow shortly after. The 22-year-old is anticipated to sign a five-year contract.

This marquee signing is part of a broader squad revamp. Liverpool have moved swiftly to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold by snapping up Wirtz’s Leverkusen teammate, Jeremie Frimpong. They are also on track to secure the services of Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, with full-back reinforcements seen as crucial for the club’s 2025–26 campaign.

José Mourinho Targets Son Heung-min for Fenerbahçe Rebuild

In Turkey, Fenerbahçe manager José Mourinho is making ambitious moves of his own. Reports suggest that the Portuguese tactician has met with Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min to discuss a potential reunion in Istanbul. Mourinho previously coached Son during his 18-month stint at Spurs between November 2019 and April 2021, during which the South Korean forward flourished alongside Harry Kane.

Despite failing to reclaim the Süper Lig title in 2024–25—losing once again to Galatasaray—Mourinho remains committed to building a competitive Fenerbahçe squad. According to Yağız Sabuncuoğlu, Son remains on excellent terms with Mourinho and is reportedly open to the idea of a move.

Tottenham, however, activated a one-year extension on Son’s contract in January, meaning Fenerbahçe would need to meet a reported asking price of £25.6 million. While Son is said to be interested in a switch, the transfer currently appears unlikely due to Spurs’ valuation.

Barcelona Eye Rashford as Attacking Reinforcement

Barcelona are actively considering options to bolster their forward line this summer, and Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford is reportedly among their potential targets. Rashford spent the second half of the 2024–25 season on loan at Aston Villa and is now expected to leave Old Trafford permanently. United have placed a £40 million price tag on the 27-year-old, and Villa are not believed to have first refusal.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Rashford is currently in Marbella, awaiting a decision from Barcelona, who are intrigued by the Englishman’s versatility and relatively modest transfer fee. He is viewed as a more financially viable option compared to Liverpool’s Luis Díaz and Athletic Club’s Nico Williams.

However, Rashford may face disappointment, as new Barça manager Hansi Flick is reportedly prioritising the free signing of Croatian veteran Ivan Perišić. The winger is coming off a stellar season at PSV Eindhoven and has drawn significant interest, although PSV are attempting to retain him with a two-year contract offer.

Barcelona’s persistent financial troubles may hinder their ability to pursue Díaz—who carries a £59 million price tag—and Williams, meaning the Catalans could delay a final decision on Rashford’s future.

Arsenal and Manchester United Circle Brahim Díaz

Elsewhere in Europe, Arsenal and Manchester United are reportedly preparing bids for Real Madrid’s Brahim Díaz. Despite their interest, the Moroccan international is said to be close to renewing his contract with Los Blancos, according to OKDiario. Both Premier League clubs will be monitoring developments as they look to strengthen their attacking options.

Bayern Munich Target Chelsea’s Malo Gusto

Bayern Munich have reportedly contacted Chelsea regarding a potential move for right back Malo Gusto, per journalist Simon Phillips. The emergence of Josh Acheampong as a promising understudy to Reece James could persuade Chelsea to sanction Gusto’s departure, though negotiations remain in the early stages.

Liverpool Join Race for Southampton’s Tyler Dibling

Liverpool have joined a growing list of Premier League clubs pursuing Southampton starlet Tyler Dibling, CaughtOffside reports. Manchester United, Chelsea, and Newcastle are all actively tracking the young midfielder, while Manchester City and Tottenham are also considering making official bids.

Raoul Bellanova Draws Premier League Interest

Atalanta’s Raoul Bellanova has caught the eye of several English clubs. According to Eleonora Trotta, Aston Villa, Fulham, and West Ham United are all keen on the dynamic winger. However, Atalanta’s asking price of £34.1 million could prove prohibitive for these Premier League outfits.

Nottingham Forest in Talks for Saelemaekers

Nottingham Forest are in discussions with AC Milan over a move for Alexis Saelemaekers, according to TEAMtalk. The two clubs are reportedly £4.3 million apart in valuation, with negotiations expected to continue in the coming days.

Leeds United Face Competition for Bijol

Slovenian defender Jaka Bijol has agreed personal terms with Leeds United, Sky Sports Switzerland reports. However, their opening bid was rejected, prompting Newcastle United to enter the race. The battle for Bijol’s signature could intensify as the summer window progresses.

Grealish and Rodrygo Swap Proposed by Guardiola

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is reportedly looking to part ways with Jack Grealish and has proposed a swap deal involving Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, according to Defensa Central. However, new Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is said to have rejected the idea, suggesting Rodrygo remains an integral part of his plans at the Bernabéu.

Betis Submit Bid for Manchester United’s Antony

Real Betis are said to be pursuing Manchester United winger Antony. ABC Sevilla claims the La Liga club have submitted an initial bid of just £17 million and are proposing a sell-on clause as part of a potential loan with an obligation to buy.

Andy Robertson Offered to Real Madrid, Targeted by Atlético

Liverpool left back Andy Robertson was reportedly offered to Real Madrid earlier in the window, according to Defensa Central. However, Los Blancos quickly declined the opportunity. The Scotland international has since emerged as a top target for their city rivals Atlético Madrid, who may now lead the race for his signature.