MU are targeting Mac Allister from Liverpool, while Arsenal have a good chance of signing Nico Williams.
Transfer news February 17th: Manchester United shock with plans to sign Alexis Mac Allister, Nico Williams ready to join Arsenal, and Real Madrid leading the race for Schlotterbeck.
The transfer market is witnessing unpredictable changes as Manchester United (MU) is reportedly planning one of the most controversial deals in Premier League history. According to sources from The Star, the Old Trafford club is considering signing midfielder Alexis MacAllister from rivals Liverpool.
Manchester United and their plan to rebuild their midfield.
Alexis Mac Allister, the 27-year-old World Cup winner, is currently a key player in Liverpool's style of play. However, reports that the Argentinian midfielder could leave Anfield this summer have immediately attracted the attention of Manchester United. If this transfer happens, it would be a major shock in the transfer market due to the long-standing rivalry between the two clubs.
Besides targeting Mac Allister, the Red Devils also quickly dispelled rumors of contact with Jurgen Klopp. The Manchester club affirmed that there have been no negotiations with the 58-year-old manager's agent, despite conflicting information from the German coach himself.
On another note, MU remains committed to its youth development policy, continuing to closely monitor Hayden Hackney of Middlesbrough. The 23-year-old midfielder is also a target for Tottenham, Everton, and Leeds United due to his remarkable progress in the Championship.
Arsenal receive a signal from Nico Williams, Chelsea get bad news.
In London, Arsenal holds a significant advantage in the race to sign Nico Williams. Through intermediaries, the 23-year-old Spaniard has indicated his willingness to leave Athletic Bilbao for a more competitive environment. This is a top priority for manager Mikel Arteta as he seeks to strengthen the Gunners' wing attack.
In contrast to Arsenal's optimism, Chelsea are facing a dilemma regarding Nicolas Jackson. Bayern Munich are reportedly unwilling to activate the buyout clause for the 24-year-old Senegalese striker because he is unable to compete for a starting place in the Bundesliga. This means Chelsea will have to welcome Jackson back, even as their attacking line is already overloaded.
Changes in Spain and Serie A
Real Madrid are demonstrating their strength in negotiations, leading the race to sign Nico Schlotterbeck from Dortmund. The price for the 26-year-old German center-back is expected to be around 50 million euros. Meanwhile, Barcelona are also targeting another Dortmund player, Julian Ryerson, to strengthen their full-back position at the request of coach Hansi Flick.
In Italy, Napoli are striving to protect their lead by retaining Scott McTominay. Facing intense interest from Premier League clubs, the Southern Italian team is drafting a new contract with an attractive salary to persuade the Scottish midfielder to commit his long-term future to Serie A.
