Current Transfer News: Major Developments in European Football

Vinícius Júnior has officially informed Real Madrid that he is not interested in renewing his contract due to a strained relationship with head coach Xabi Alonso, as reported by The Athletic. The 25-year-old Brazilian conveyed this message to club president Florentino Perez in late October. Sources have indicated that the relationship has deteriorated, resulting in stalled contract negotiations. Currently, Júnior’s contract runs until June 2027, with an annual salary of approximately €17 million, including bonuses.

Meanwhile, Manchester United is exploring the possibility of signing AFC Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo. The Manchester Evening News reports that the Red Devils are very interested in acquiring the 25-year-old and are prepared to offer him the preferred No. 24 squad number, which is currently held by goalkeeper André Onana, who is on loan at Trabzonspor. Semenyo has had an impressive season, recording six goals and three assists in the Premier League, attracting interest from other clubs, including Liverpool. Notably, he has a £60 million release clause that will become active in January.

In contract negotiations, Bayern Munich is in discussions with center-back Dayot Upamecano amid interest from several European clubs, according to Bild. Chelsea is reportedly among the clubs monitoring his situation, with Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Internazionale also showing interest. Should they fail to secure a new deal for Upamecano, Bayern Munich may consider alternatives such as Nico Schlotterbeck from Borussia Dortmund or Marc Guéhi from Crystal Palace.

Real Madrid striker Gonzalo García is a target for both Aston Villa and Brighton & Hove Albion, as reported by Football Insider. Both Premier League clubs have reportedly reached out regarding a potential loan deal for the 21-year-old, who has made 10 first-team appearances this season. Los Blancos have yet to decide on whether to release him, concerned that he may be needed for additional attacking depth.

Inter Milan may face challenges in securing a deal for Roma midfielder Manu Koné, as highlighted by Fabrizio Romano. The 24-year-old France international is considered crucial by manager Gian Piero Gasperini, and Roma has no intention of letting him leave, especially with the club currently leading Serie A. As a result, Inter may need to seek alternative options in the January transfer window.

Additionally, Liverpool is reportedly prepared to make a £25 million offer for AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, according to Football Insider. The Premier League champions are among several clubs, including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Newcastle United, and Borussia Dortmund, interested in the 19-year-old, who has contributed to four goals in 12 Eredivisie matches this season.

In other transfer news, clubs such as Chelsea, Arsenal, and Barcelona have shown interest in Nottingham Forest defender Murillo. Arsenal and Manchester United are monitoring Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay’s situation, and Newcastle is getting ready to sign a striker in January due to Yoane Wissa’s expected participation in the Africa Cup of Nations. Furthermore, Manchester United aims to offer midfielder Casemiro a new contract with a reduced salary, while clubs like Fiorentina and Real Betis are keen on Botafogo defender David Ricardo, potentially making an €8 million offer soon. Finally, Everton has confirmed they do not plan to part ways with midfielder James Garner despite interest from Nottingham Forest.