Real Madrid Reassesses Defensive Targets

Real Madrid has reportedly paused its pursuit of Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate (26), whose contract expires in 2026. Spanish outlet Fichajes suggests Los Blancos are exploring alternatives, including PSG's rising star Warren Zaire-Emery (19), as a long-term midfield solution.

Premier League Transfer Buzz

• Manchester United:

  • Targeting Brentford's Ukrainian midfielder Yehor Yarmolyuk (21) to bolster defensive options.
  • Finalized a deal for Colombian teenage prospect Cristian Orozco (17) from Fortaleza.
  • Joshua Zirkzee (24) remains on radar for Juventus and AC Milan, with Como pushing for a loan.

• Newcastle United:

  • Monitoring Athletic Club's creative midfielder Oihan Sancet (25) to enhance attacking depth.

• Liverpool:

  • Considering Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix (25) as backup if Marc Guehi talks stall.
  • Youngster Giovanni Leoni (18) faces extended absence after knee surgery.

European Market Moves

• Manchester City faces tension with Erling Haaland (25) amid reported frustration over the club's direction, despite his recent contract extension.
• Arsenal, Barcelona, and Real Madrid scout Club Tijuana's 16-year-old Mexican prodigy Gilberto Mora.
• Phil Foden (25) campaigns for an England recall, while Jack Grealish (30) risks exclusion.

Managerial Shifts

Ex-Liverpool director Jorg Schmadtke is linked to Borussia Monchengladbach's sporting role (Kicker).

Sources: Fichajes, Football Insider, Teamtalk, ESPN, Fabrizio Romano