Transfer Rumors: Arsenal, Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Juventus All in the Mix

Feb 16, 2026, 05:43 AM ET

Real Madrid’s Víctor Valdepeñas is among Arsenal’s favored options to strengthen their defense, while Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur have an interest in signing Bayern Munich center back Kim Min-jae, and Juventus want to renew Weston McKennie’s contract but won’t double his wages. Join us for the latest transfer news and rumors from around the globe.

Transfers home page | Men’s winter grades | Women’s grades

Arsenal Targeting Real Madrid’s Víctor Valdepeñas

Arsenal are prioritizing the acquisition of Real Madrid defender Víctor Valdepeñas to bolster their back line in the summer transfer window, according to TransferFeed. The 19-year-old, who plays for Real Madrid Castilla, has made one appearance at the senior level and is capable of playing as either a left back or center back.

However, the Gunners will face competition from AC Milan, who have a longstanding interest in Valdepeñas, and clubs in the German Bundesliga. Facebook sources indicate Valdepeñas made his Real Madrid debut earlier this season, impressing despite a minor critique from coach Xabi Alonso.

Valdepeñas’ contract with Real Madrid extends until 2029, and his development in the coming months will determine whether he remains with the club or seeks opportunities elsewhere.

Chelsea and Tottenham Eye Bayern Munich’s Kim Min-jae

Both Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are monitoring Bayern Munich center back Kim Min-jae for a potential summer move, as reported by Fichajes.com. Spurs’ pursuit may depend on their next managerial appointment, while Chelsea aims to add depth to their defense.

Despite being happy at Bayern, Kim Min-jae is currently third-choice behind Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah.

Juventus Contract Talks with McKennie Stall

Juventus are seeking to renew the contract of USMNT midfielder Weston McKennie, but negotiations have hit a snag due to wage demands, according to Fichajes.com. McKennie’s agents have requested a doubling of his current salary, which falls between €2.5 million and €3 million per season.

While Juventus is willing to offer a pay rise, they are unwilling to meet the agent’s demands. Other European clubs have expressed interest in McKennie as a free agent, but the player reportedly prefers to stay with Juventus.

Additional Transfer Rumors

• Chelsea and Liverpool are leading the chase for Nottingham Forest center back Murillo.
• Bayern Munich is closely monitoring RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, with Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United also showing interest.
• AC Milan are open to offers around €80 million for USMNT winger Christian Pulisic, attracting interest from Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, and Manchester United.
• Scott McTominay’s priority is to remain at Napoli, with contract extension talks progressing well.
• Manchester City is planning a £70 million summer move for Nottingham Forest attacking midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White.
• Arsenal scouted Pio Esposito of Internazionale.
• Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, and Crystal Palace have initiated discussions regarding Real Madrid center back Antonio Rudiger.
• Chelsea, Manchester City, Newcastle United, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, and RB Leipzig are all vying for Twente center back Ruud Nijstad.
• Al Ahli striker Ivan Toney has not ruled out a return to the Premier League.