Giuliano Simeone and Frenkie de Jong Lead January Transfer Rumours
European football clubs are laying the groundwork for the January transfer window, with Manchester United targeting Atletico Madrid forward Giuliano Simeone and Chelsea weighing moves for Frenkie de Jong and Alex Scott. Squad depth and long-term planning drive these pursuits as leagues approach the midway point of the season.
Manchester United will monitor 23-year-old Argentina forward Giuliano Simeone closely when the English club faces Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, according to Mundo Deportivo. The scouting effort comes as Premier League sides look to bolster their attacking options.
Chelsea Eyeing Frenkie de Jong and Alex Scott Deals
Chelsea face a substantial valuation to secure Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona. Football Insider reports that the Stamford Bridge club must pay at least £50m to tempt Barcelona into selling the 29-year-old Netherlands midfielder during the January window.
In addition to De Jong, Chelsea are willing to meet Bournemouth’s asking price for 23-year-old England midfielder Alex Scott in January, Teamtalk reports. Bournemouth remain hopeful that Scott will sign a new contract despite the impending Premier League interest.
Aleksandar Stankovic and Bartosz Mazurek Draw Midfield Interest
Inter Milan midfielder Aleksandar Stankovic has attracted attention from a host of Premier League clubs. The 21-year-old Serbia international is the subject of widespread interest, according to AS.
Meanwhile, Brighton have identified Red Bull Salzburg attacking midfielder Bartosz Mazurek as a leading target for January. Teamtalk notes that the 19-year-old Polish player features prominently on the south coast club’s recruitment list.
Niclas Fullkrug and Thibaut Courtois Contract Updates
Werder Bremen do not hold an option to permanently sign on-loan Germany striker Niclas Fullkrug from West Ham. Sky Sports Germany reports that the two clubs have not yet held any formal discussions regarding a future deal for the 33-year-old forward.
In Madrid, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is nearing a contract extension with Real Madrid. The 34-year-old Belgium international is very close to signing an agreement that will keep him at the club until 2028, according to Mundo Deportivo.
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