Premier League Transfers: Van Dijk Loyalty, Rashford Links and Major Club Moves
As the summer transfer window gets closer, the football world is awash with speculation, negotiations, and high-stakes rumours. From contract sagas to multi-million-pound bids, here’s a round-up of the latest transfer news dominating headlines.
Van Dijk Rebuffs Interest Amid Chelsea and PSG Links
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk recently reaffirmed his commitment to the club, despite reported interest from several European heavyweights. As Van Dijk approached the final weeks of his previous contract, his future at Anfield remained uncertain, prompting interest from other major clubs.
According to Mail Sport, Chelsea explored the possibility of signing the Dutch centre-back during this period of uncertainty. However, Van Dijk, who eventually extended his contract as the season wound down, was not open to leaving Liverpool. Despite being spotted in conversation with Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al Khelaifi and sporting director Luis Campos following PSG’s Champions League win over Liverpool in the Round of 16, the French champions quickly dismissed any transfer speculation. Van Dijk himself later stated that it was “always Liverpool”, ending any doubt over his future.
Manchester United’s Massive Offer for Victor Osimhen
Manchester United are aiming to leapfrog their rivals in the race for Napoli star Victor Osimhen, reportedly offering the Nigerian striker a staggering £660,000-a-week contract (Ali Naci Kukuc). United are in urgent need of a proven goalscorer and see Osimhen as a transformative figure in their attack.
Barcelona Eyeing Bernardo Silva Transfer
Barcelona remain hopeful of finally landing Bernardo Silva from Manchester City this summer. The Portuguese playmaker has a release clause of £49.7m, and TodoFichajes (Spain) reports that his contract also includes clauses designed to facilitate a move to the Catalan giants. After years of admiration, Barça might finally get their man.
Interest Growing in Alejandro Garnacho
Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho is attracting serious attention, with Atletico Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, and Chelsea all reportedly interested. The 19-year-old’s price tag remains high, at around £70m, according to TEAMtalk. Despite the cost, clubs are clearly enticed by the Argentine’s potential.
Cunha Attitude Concerns Arsenal and Liverpool
Wolves striker Matheus Cunha, valued at £63m, is a target for both Arsenal and Liverpool. However, TBR Football reveals that both clubs have grown concerned about the Brazilian’s attitude, which has made them reluctant to meet Wolves’ steep valuation. The deal remains in limbo as a result.
Besiktas Enters the Race for Liam Delap
Besiktas have reportedly joined the list of suitors for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap. The Turkish club turned their attention to the 21-year-old after negotiations for Southampton’s Paul Onuachu hit a wall, as reported by Turkish outlet Fotomac. With Delap impressing in the Premier League this season despite Ipswich’s seemingly imminent relegation, interest in the young striker continues to grow.
Wirtz Fancies Madrid Move Over Premier League Giants
Bayer Leverkusen’s midfield star Florian Wirtz has made Real Madrid his top priority this summer. According to BILD (Germany), Manchester City are Wirtz’s second choice, with Bayern Munich third. The 20-year-old’s release clause stands at £107.2m, though interested clubs may need to offer up to £128.7m to get the deal done.
Rashford Being Closely Watched by Chelsea
Chelsea are monitoring Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford during his current loan spell at Aston Villa. The Express claims the England international is also attracting attention from Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and PSG. Despite various suitors, talkSPORT reports that Rashford still “dreams” of playing for Barcelona by the end of the season.
Gravenberch Committed to Liverpool Despite Agent’s Madrid Comments
Ryan Gravenberch is reportedly going nowhere, despite comments made by his agent suggesting an interest in Real Madrid. The Dutch midfielder has been a mainstay in Liverpool’s title-winning season, starting all 32 Premier League games.
According to Mail Sport, Jose Fortes, Gravenberch’s agent, claimed the 21-year-old was “good enough” for Los Blancos and said, “We would love for him to play for them.” However, the publication asserts that Fortes’ remarks were misconstrued and reflect more of a personal admiration for Madrid than Gravenberch’s actual intentions. The midfielder remains committed to Liverpool, which is a major boost for Jurgen Klopp’s rebuilding efforts.