24 September, 2025
saudi-clubs-pursue-fernandes-as-barcelona-targets-rashford

Several clubs in the Saudi Pro League are intensifying their efforts to secure a transfer for Bruno Fernandes from Manchester United. Meanwhile, Barcelona is striving to negotiate a lower transfer fee to convert Marcus Rashford’s loan into a permanent deal. These developments illustrate the ongoing dynamics of the football transfer market as teams seek to bolster their rosters.

Interest in Fernandes remains high, with reports indicating that Saudi Pro League clubs plan to make another push for the midfielder in summer 2026, according to football journalist Fabrizio Romano on the “Here We Go” podcast. This anticipated approach is expected to occur following the World Cup. Despite the interest, Fernandes has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the Red Devils and continues to do so.

In a parallel situation, Barcelona aims to secure Rashford’s permanent transfer, but the two clubs are currently at odds over the fee. The Catalan club is looking to reduce the cost from £35 million, the figure Manchester United reportedly desires, to a more manageable £26 million. Rashford, who recently scored twice in a 2-1 Champions League victory against Newcastle United, has expressed a strong desire to remain with Barcelona, complicating negotiations further.

Key Transfers and Future Plans

Manchester United is also focusing on strengthening its squad, with plans to secure a new goalkeeper next summer, despite the recent acquisition of Senne Lammens from Antwerp. Reports suggest that the club is considering Mike Maignan from AC Milan, who is also attracting attention from Chelsea. Maignan’s current contract expires in summer 2024, providing a potential opportunity for a transfer.

Additionally, United is looking to bolster its midfield, with Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion emerging as a target. The club’s management is keen on making strategic signings that could enhance their chances of success in the coming seasons.

On the other hand, Juventus is reportedly eyeing a move for Sergej Milinkovic-Savic as his contract with Al Hilal nears expiration in summer 2024. The Italian club is exploring options after a summer transfer window that left some gaps in their squad, particularly in midfield where they feel they lack depth.

Tottenham Hotspur is also in the mix, showing renewed interest in Savinho, a winger from Manchester City. Spurs are considering a move in January, encouraged by the player’s previous interest in joining their ranks. Savinho has yet to make his mark in the Premier League or Champions League this season, which may present an opportunity for Tottenham.

Additional Rumors and Insights

Other notable transfer rumors include Harry Kane, who reportedly has a clause in his contract allowing him to leave Bayern Munich for £56.7 million next summer, provided he declares his intention to exit before the winter transfer window closes.

Former Leeds United forward Patrick Bamford is set to join Getafe as a free agent, while Vinicius Junior is stalling on a contract renewal with Real Madrid, prompting discussions about his future with the club.

Additionally, clubs including Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Liverpool are vying for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, whose contract is set to expire in the summer. Meanwhile, Chelsea is keeping an eye on young left-back Nico O’Reilly, while Manchester United prepares for possible changes regarding Casemiro as they consider letting him depart when his contract concludes.

As the football transfer landscape evolves, clubs continue to seek strategic moves to enhance their squads, setting the stage for an exciting and unpredictable winter transfer window.