Manchester United has entered into discussions with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) regarding the potential acquisition of Neymar during the upcoming summer transfer window, according to a report by L’Equipe. The French newspaper reveals that numerous Premier League clubs, most notably Manchester United, have engaged in talks. Earlier this year, some PSG fans were spotted protesting outside Neymar’s residence, expressing their desire for the player to depart from the club. Furthermore, there is speculation surrounding Lionel Messi’s future, as his contract is set to expire, and a contract renewal seems unlikely following his recent suspension.
PSG Open to Neymar’s Departure
L’Equipe suggests that Neymar’s potential departure will be a prominent topic during PSG’s off-season. The club, which is generally reluctant to sell its players, seems to be aligned internally on this matter. Certain individuals view Neymar’s exit as a means of transitioning the club’s project towards a more disciplined approach and a reduced emphasis on flashy football. Others see it as an opportunity to construct a more balanced team centered around Kylian Mbappe, their lone superstar.
Manchester City Interested in Alexis Mac Allister
According to The Mirror, Manchester City could become contenders in the pursuit of Alexis Mac Allister, potentially challenging Liverpool for the player’s signature. Although an agreement was believed to have been reached between Liverpool and Brighton for the Argentine midfielder, Pep Guardiola reportedly admires the World Cup winner and considers him an ideal replacement if Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva leave the Premier League champions this summer. Guardiola, along with City’s sporting director Txiki Begiristain, has compiled a list of summer transfer targets, including Mac Allister (24), Julio Enciso (19), Joshua Kimmich (28) from Bayern Munich, and Josko Gvardiol (21) from RB Leipzig. Aymeric Laporte’s departure is also a possibility.
Arsenal Eye Alternatives to Declan Rice
The Daily Mail reports that Arsenal has identified Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, Ruben Neves from Wolves, and Moises Caicedo from Brighton as potential alternatives to Declan Rice, should the club be priced out of a move for the West Ham midfielder. Arsenal is expected to make a structured £90m offer for the English international soon. However, there are concerns that West Ham may demand over £100m for their star player, leading Arsenal to explore other options. Arsenal previously held discussions regarding Zubimendi in January, but the player opted to remain at Sociedad due to their successful season, despite Arsenal being willing to trigger his £53m release clause. Wolves value Neves at £45m and the player seeks Champions League football, although the club prefers a sale to a foreign team. Additionally, Brighton rejected a £70m offer from Arsenal for Caicedo during the previous transfer window.
West Ham Pursue Aaron Wan-Bissaka
West Ham manager David Moyes is keen to secure the services of Manchester United full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka this summer, as reported by the Daily Mail. After narrowly avoiding relegation this season, West Ham aims to strengthen their defensive options after conceding 53 goals in 37 league matches. Wan-Bissaka’s future at Manchester United hangs in the balance, as his contract is set to expire at the end of next season. However, Manchester United has not ruled out the possibility of extending his deal. Crystal Palace, the club that sold Wan-Bissaka to United for £50 million in 2019, also holds an interest in bringing the defender back to their ranks.