Barcelona and Manchester United among clubs interested in signing 21-year-old goalkeeper: Reports

Real Salt Lake goalkeeper David Ochoa is a player of interest to Barcelona and Manchester United, according to American journalist Tom Bogert.

Barcelona have had an eventful summer transfer window so far. They have signed Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Franck Kessie and Andreas Christensen till now and are now expected to add Jules Kounde to their ranks.

Manchester United, on the other hand, have made three major additions to their squad ahead of their first season under Erik ten Hag. They have landed Lisandro Martinez and Tyrell Malacia for a combined fee of around €72 million, while Christian Eriksen has been roped in on a free transfer.

Despite their stature as two of Europe's biggest clubs, Barcelona and Manchester United are also exploring the market for potential low-cost options. It has emerged that Real Salt Lake goalkeeper Ochoa is such a target for them.

Barcelona view the 21-year-old as a potential option for their reserve team, according to the aforementioned source. The Blaugrana already have four goalkeepers, including Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Neto, in their senior squad.

Manchester United, who have allowed Dean Henderson to join Nottingham Forest on loan this summer, only have David de Gea and Tom Heaton in their ranks. They could thus look to make Ochoa their third-choice goalkeeper.

Ochoa has made 30 appearances across all competitions for Real Salt Lake so far. However, his contract with the Major League Soccer (MLS) club is expiring at the end of the year.

The Catalans and the Red Devils, though, are not the only clubs interested in signing the Mexican. Ligue 1 club AS Monaco are also being linked with a move for the shot-stopper.

Club America, Club Tijuana and Atletico de San Luis are credited with an interest in Ochoa as well.

Manchester United struggle to sign Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong

The Red Devils have been working on a deal to sign Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona. They have even agreed a deal worth up to €85 million with the Catalans, according to Fabrizio Romano.

However, De Jong is said to be reluctant to leave the La Liga giants during the ongoing transfer window. It is also worth noting that the Camp Nou outfit reportedly still owe him €17 million in wages.

The Netherlands international is keen to play Champions League football next season. There have been suggestions that he will only leave the Blaugrana for Chelsea this summer.

 Real Madrid Transfer News Roundup: Los Blancos wanted Antonio Rudiger in 2019; club monitoring AC Milan forward, and more - July 27, 2022

Real Madrid played out a 2-2 draw against Club America on Tuesday in a friendly at Oracle Park. Karim Benzema and Eden Hazard scored for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

Meanwhile, Antonio Rudiger's agent Sahr Senesie has revealed that Los Blancos wanted him in 2019. Elsewhere, the La Liga giants are monitoring an AC Milan forward.

On that note, here's a look at the key Real Madrid transfer stories as on July 27, 2022:

Real Madrid wanted Antonio Rudiger in 2019, says player's agent

Sahr Senesie has revealed that Antonio Rudiger has been on Real Madrid’s radar for quite a while. The German defender joined Los Blancos this summer after seeing out his Chelsea contract this summer.

Speaking to Kicker, as relayed by Marca, Rudiger's agent said the La Liga giants wanted the player in 2019, but a move failed to materialise.

“The contact was directly with Real Madrid, not with him, but with the management. No complications arose, as we had been in contact with the club since 2016. The interest materialised in 2019, before Chelsea's transfer ban came in, and Antonio didn't want to force a transfer out of respect for Chelsea officials. Chelsea would not have been able to sign a replacement for him at that time,” said Senesie.

Senesie went on to reveal that he has been in touch with Ancelotti since 2018.

"I have been in close contact with Carlo since 2018, from Napoli. Carlo explained to him how he conceives the whole thing in sporting terms. Toni liked that. It was a very good conversation, and it further reinforced his good feeling. Initially, we continued with the strategy of waiting. 'Keep calm and play good football'," I told him,” said Senesie.

The agent, who's also Rudiger's brother, added:

“But after two months of uncertainty, also in view of Chelsea's new owners and their ideas, two or three big European clubs pushed for a decision. So we had to reassess the situation, which Toni didn't know yet. Then he communicated very clearly to his coach Thomas Tuchel that he wanted to leave after having to decide between waiting with a lot of uncertainty until maybe June or moving to Real Madrid."

Los Blancos monitoring Olivier Giroud

Real Madrid are interested in Olivier Giroud, according to Fichajes via The Hard Tackle. The La Liga champions remain in the market for a backup to Karim Benzema. With Luka Jovic gone and Mariano Diaz also likely to follow suit, Ancelotti could look to bolster his options in attack. Giroud could be a fabulous short-term solution.

The Frenchman registered 14 goals and four assists from 38 games last season to help AC Milan win their first Serie A title in 11 years. However, he has dropped down the pecking order following the arrival of Divock Origi. Los Blancos are willing to take advantage of the situation and take him to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Carlo Ancelotti hints at staring XI for UEFA Super Cup

Carlo Ancelotti has provided team news for Real Madrid’s UEFA Super Cup tie against Eintracht Frankfurt at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium on August 10. Los Blancos are currently on their pre-season tour of the US and shared the spoils against Club America on Tuesday.

Speaking after the game, Ancelotti that said he's pleased with his team’s performance.

“It was a good game, better than the first (that they lost to Barcelona). We had difficulties in the beginning, but then the team played well. We had more control in the first half and more strength in the second,” said Ancelotti.

The Italian added that he won’t make too many changes from last season’s team for the UEFA Super Cup. It's likely to resemble the one that takes the field against Juventus in a friendly on Sunday.

“It’s going to look more like last season because it’s a tournament we qualified for by winning the Champions League. We have to take that into account because it means closing the season – we have to finish out the season by winning the Super Cup. The team that plays will look like that one we put out on Saturday (against Juventus),” said Ancelotti

Neymar breaks silence on rumors linking him with PSG exit

Brazilian winger Neymar claimed that he wants to stay at PSG in a recent post-match interview.

Neymar, along with the entire squad, is currently in Japan for their pre-season tour. The French champions won 3-0 earlier on Saturday against Urawa Reds with Kylian Mbappe, Pablo Sarabia, and Arnaud Kalimuendo on the scoresheet.

Neymar was brought in as a second-half substitute and played for the last 30 minutes. The Brazilian has been linked with an exit with the French club understood to be intent on selling him.

Manchester City and Chelsea have been actively linked with the player. However, in an interview transcribed by L’Équipe, Neymar claimed that he wants to stay at the club and has not received any communication regarding a potential move.

“I want to stay at PSG. I don’t know about the club, because they’ve never said anything to me. I have a contract for several years here. There you go. For now, they’ve said nothing.”

The 30-year-old still has five years left on his contract but has reportedly been offered to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. However, the English champions are understood to have said no to the potential move. Neymar scored 13 goals last season and has netted 100 times in 144 appearances for the French club.

Neymar claims he is happy at PSG despite being linked to exit

The Brazilian was also asked whether he had anything to say to people who have criticized him over recent performances. In response, Neymar claimed that he was happy at his current club.

“No. The truth is that I have nothing to prove to anyone. People speak too much because they can do nothing else. They know me, they know how I am, how I play. I have nothing to show. I love playing football, I’m happy.”

It is clear that the French club under the new regime are intent on making quick changes. Under Luis Campo, PSG have not made any big signings and seem focussed on bringing defensive resilience into the team.

Christopher Galtier is a relatively lesser-known manager who has been brought in despite some big names being linked to the job, including Zinedine Zidane.

The club knows it already possesses enough attacking depth and instead needs to bring balance to the squad. Luis Campos is one of the most highly-rated football brains on the planet and his impact might allow the French club to finally land their first UCL title.

ELCLASICO MATCH PREVIEW

Barcelona vs Real Madrid Prediction and Betting Tips | 23rd July | Club Friendlies 2022

The Allegiant Stadium in Nevada bears witness to another edition of El Clasico this weekend as Barcelona lock horns with arch-rivals Real Madrid in an intriguing clash on Saturday.

Barcelona vs Real Madrid Preview

Barcelona finished in second place in the La Liga standings and have shown improvement under Xavi so far. The Catalan giants thrashed Inter Miami by a comfortable 6-0 margin in their previous game and will look to achieve a similar result this weekend.

Real Madrid, on the other hand, won the La Liga title last season and have been in impeccable form over the past year. Los Blancos have an impressive squad at their disposal and have a point to prove in this fixture.

Barcelona vs Real Madrid Head-to-Head and Key Numbers

Barcelona vs Real Madrid Prediction

Barcelona have impressive players in their ranks and have pulled off several surprises in the transfer market. The Catalans have shown tremendous improvement under Xavi and will look to be at their best in this match.

Real Madrid will be hurting from their previous Clasico defeat and will be intent on making amends this weekend. Barcelona have improved over the past month, however, and hold a slight upper hand in this fixture.

Prediction: Barcelona 3-2 Real Madrid

Barcelona vs Real Madrid Betting Tips

Tip 1: Result - Barcelona

Tip 2: Game to have over 2.5 goals - Yes

Tip 3: Real Madrid to score first - Yes

Tip 4: Robert Lewandowski to score - Yes

 Transfer News LIVE, July 21: Real Madrid turn down Dzeko, Dani Alves finds a club, another Barcelona target

Hello everybody and, as we start a new week, welcome along to another MARCA In English transfer market live blog this Thursday, July 21.

We're now more than halfway through July, so the transfer market is really heating up and we'll be reporting on all the new operations that are announced this Thursday, as well as all the juiciest transfer rumours of the day.

As is always the case in these transfer market live blogs, the updates follow below and the most recent ones are the ones that come nearest the top.

Transfer Market: Rumours and Breaking News on Thursday, July 21

This is our daily transfer market live blog and we have been using this space all summer to provide updates on the latest transfer news.

Each day, we'll have all the latest information as Barcelona continue to make improvements, while Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid aim to improve too.

But, we won't only be covering the Spanish teams in these transfer market live blogs, as we'll also have news for the Premier League giants like Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool, in addition to the teams of Serie A, Ligue 1, the Bundesliga and beyond.

Over the course of the summer, we will use this space to bring you the latest transfer news as and when it happens.

If there is a confirmed deal or a contract renewal, then we'll bring you the details here and explain who is going where or staying where.

If there is an interesting transfer market rumour, we will bring that to your attention as well and break down how likely or not it is to actually come to fruition.

So, follow along with us this Thursday and over the rest of the summer months to stay up to date with the latest transfer market developments.

Real Madrid News Today.

Real Madrid's quiet arrival in Los Angeles with Benzema waiting

Real Madrid landed in Los Angeles around 6:15pm on Tuesday after a 13-hour direct flight from Spain.

They were greeted by timid shouts from about 70 local Madrid fans when they arrived at their hotel at around 7:30pm, with Carlo Ancelotti and Vinicius among the most acclaimed.

The Italian tactician has named 28 players to Madrid's squad for their trip to the USA.

Reinier has remained in Spain as the club look to sort his future, while Borja Mayoral missed out on the trip due to his vaccination status.

UCLA, Real Madrid's home in Los Angeles

Karim Benzema has finally rejoined the group after skipping the initial training period at the Ciudad Real Madrid with the club's permission.

The Frenchman arrived at the hotel hours before his teammates, while new signings Antonio Rudiger and Aurelien Tchouameni are also present.

There are also four youth players in the squad: two goalkeepers in Luis Lopez and Lucas Canizares, right-back Vinicius Tobias, and striker Juanmi Latasa.

The Beverly Hills Hotel, located on Sunset Boulevard, will be Real Madrid's base for the next two weeks. Training is expected to resume Wednesday at the renowned UCLA facilities.

The temperature will be somewhat cooler than in Spain, with highs of 30ºC and lows of 18ºC.

Madrid will have some time to settle in before taking on Barcelona in Las Vegas on July 23, then travelling to San Francisco for a match against America on the 26th, and then ending their trip against Juventus in Los Angeles on the 30th.

Eden Hazard has to save Real Madrid career in true now-or-never season - 

The images of a lean fit Eden Hazard may have only emerged in recent days but the player himself sensed something was changing last March when a routine operation to remove a metal plate also took a great weight from his shoulders.

Hazard broke his right ankle two years ago and had the plate fitted to stabilise the injury as it healed.

It played on his mind, reminding him constantly of the injury and he felt different when doctor Jose Palacios removed it at Madrid's university hospital just before the end of last season.

The half hour procedure may have finally fixed the €150million (£128m) player just before his most important season.

This is a World Cup year, and the tournament in Qatar will probably be his last World Cup. He is also now just two years from the end of his contract, at a club which has shown great patience with him - patience he wants to reward.

In an era of wasteful signings (Philippe Coutinho, Antoine Griezmann, Ousmane Dembele among others) Hazard had been the worst.

Liverpool facing competition from Real Madrid for 25-year-old star - Reports

FA Cup champions Liverpool will face competition from reigning European champions Real Madrid for the signature of Florian Neuhaus. This is according to a report by Fichajes Futbol (via Liverpool Echo). The Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder has enjoyed a fine season in the middle of the park and has seen himself linked with a move to a bigger club.

The German joined Monchengladbach in 2017 and has gone on to establish himself as one of the best players in the Bundesliga. Last season, Neuhaus was a constant part of the Foals' starting XI, scoring four goals and providing four assists in 32 Bundesliga appearances.

This has led to the 25-year-old being linked with a move to a couple of big-name clubs this transfer window. One of these potential destinations is Liverpool, with the German midfielder expected to potentially add experience and efficiency to an already impressive Reds midfield.

However, Liverpool might have an issue with securing the German’s signature as Real Madrid are also linked with the midfielder. Los Blancos beat Jurgen Klopp’s men to the Champions League trophy last season in the final and might just beat them to this signing as well.

 Real Madrid Transfer News Roundup: Los Blancos monitoring Real Sociedad striker; club offered chance to sign Napoli midfielder, and more - July 11, 2022

Real Madrid have started the summer with a bang. Manager Carlo Ancelotti secured the signature of Antonio Rudiger on a Bosman move and also snapped up Aurelien Tchouameni from Monaco.

Meanwhile, Los Blancos are monitoring a Real Sociedad striker. Elsewhere, the La Liga giants have been offered the chance to sign a Napoli midfielder this summer. On that note, here's a look at the key Real Madrid transfer stories as on July 11, 2022:

Real Madrid monitoring Alexander Isak

Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on Alexander Isak, according to Fichajes via The Hard Tackle. The Swedish striker has caught the eye for Real Sociedad, catching Madrid's attention.

Isak has turned over a new leaf since joining Sociedad from Borussia Dortmund in 2019. He has 43 goals and eight assists from 128 appearances across competitions, and his overall gameplay has earned him admirers across Europe. Los Blancos are also monitoring him with interest.

The Spanish giants have bid adieu to Luka Jovic, who has been offloaded to Fiorentina on a free transfer. Mariano Diaz is also expected to leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, which would open up space in the striker’s department.

Karim Benzema enjoyed an exceptional 2021-22 campaign, scoring 44 times in 46 games across competitions. However, the Frenchman is in the twilight of his career, and Madrid will have to lay down succession plans for their fabled marksman. Isak could be a backup to Benzema, picking up the tricks of the trade before the baton is passed to him.

The Swede is expected to cost around €50-60 million this summer, which could hinder a possible move. However, Madrid and Sociedad are currently negotiating for the transfer of Takefusa Kubo. Los Blancos could use the opportunity to facilitate talks for Isak.

Los Blancos offered chance to sign Fabian Ruiz

Real Madrid have been offered the chance to sign Fabian Ruiz on a cut-price deal this summer, according to Defensa Central via The Hard Tackle.

The Spaniard has been a regular feature in Napoli’s midfield since arriving at the club in 2018. The 26-year-old has racked up 22 goals and 15 assists from 166 games across competitions for the Serie A giants. However, his contract is set to run out next summer, but he's yet to commit himself to the club.

Madrid are already keeping a close eye on Ruiz’s situation and were previously planning to lap him up for free next summer. However, Los Blancos have now been afforded a chance to secure the Spaniard on a reduced fee this year. Barcelona are also in the mix, but it's unclear whether either club would dive for the Spaniard this summer.

Real Madrid in three-horse race for Dani Gonzalez

Real Madrid are locked in a battle with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid for the signature of Dani Gonzalez, according to Defensa Central via The Hard Tackle.

The Spaniard has developed in leaps and bounds at Albacete, earning his first-team debut last November. The 20-year-old has appeared 20 times for them across competitions, registering five goals and two assists, to help them earn promotion to La Liga 2.

Gonzalez’s steady rise has earned him admirers at the Santiago Bernabeu. The La Liga giants want to add him to the youth ranks at Real Madrid Castilla, which could be depleted by Juanmi Latasa’s impending promotion to the senior team. Los Blancos believe Gonzalez's arrival would strengthen Raul Gonzalez’s side but could face competition from Barcelona and Atletico Madrid for his signature.

Real Madrid Transfer News Roundup: Los Blancos return best option for Cristiano Ronaldo, says Lille defender; club offer 2-year deal to Spanish midfielder, and more - July 8, 2022

eal Madrid have already roped in Antonio Rudiger and Aurelien Tchouameni this summer. Manager Carlo Ancelotti is preparing to continue his team’s dominance in European football next season.

Meanwhile, Lille defender Jose Fonte believes a return to the Santiago Bernabeu would be the best option for Cristiano Ronaldo. Elsewhere, Los Blancos have offered a two-year deal to a Spanish midfielder.

On that note, here's a look at the key Real Madrid transfer stories as on July 8, 2022:

Real Madrid return best option for Cristiano Ronaldo, says Jose Fonte

Jose Fonte believes a return to Real Madrid would be the best option for Cristiano Ronaldo at the moment.

The Portuguese has asked to leave Manchester United this summer and is already being linked with a host of clubs around Europe. The 37-year-old spent almost a decade at the Santiago Bernabeu, enjoying tremendous success.

Speaking to talkSPORT, Fonte said that Ronaldo wants to play in the UEFA Champions League and wants to win the Ballon d’Or award.

“What I do know is that the man loves the Champions League. He believes it is the best competition in the world and knows how he has to perform to win Ballons d’Or. Talking about Man United, I think they really have a good coach. I’ve played twice against Ajax, and I was really impressed with the way they played and their philosophy.

He continued:

“He needs to be winning trophies and competing for trophies for the Ballon d’Or. He is a serial winner, as everyone knows. He might be looking at the squad and thinking, ‘Am I going to be able to win some trophies this year?’ Maybe, he doesn’t believe it. I don’t know. Only he can say.”

Fonte added that rejoining Los Blancos would work wonders for Ronaldo, but he's unsure if the club wants him back.

“Would he go back to Madrid? That would be, for him, the best. If they want him back or not, that’s a different question.”

Fonte also said that Ronaldo could win trophies if he moved to Bayern Munich too.

“Bayern Munich would be interesting – because he can win trophies and be competitive in the Champions League.”

Los Blancos offer 2-year deal to Dani Ceballos

Real Madrid have offered Dani Ceballos a two-year deal, according to SPORT via The Hard Tackle.

The Spanish midfielder’s current contract with the La Liga champions is all set to expire next summer. The 25-year-old has dropped down the pecking order at the Santiago Bernabeu recently.

Ceballos showed promise when called upon last season, but his struggle for first-team football is likely to continue with the arrival of Aurelien Tchouameni.

Los Blancos were previously willing to cash in on Ceballos this year. However, it now appears the club have performed a U-turn and have decided to keep hold of the Spaniard. Ancelotti has always spoken highly of the 25-year-old, and it appears the Italian wants the player to extend his stay.

Newcastle United interested in Marco Asensio

Newcastle United are interested in Marco Asensio, according to Defensa Central via The Hard Tackle. The Magpies are looking to invest heavily in the squad this summer and have identified the frontline as an area that needs special attention. The Spaniard has emerged as a target, given the uncertainties surrounding his future at Real Madrid.

Asensio has entered the final year of his current deal and talks for an extension have not been fruitful so far. The 26-year-old is not short of options if he wants to leave, with the Magpies eager to take him to St. James Park. However, they'll face competition from AC Milan, Manchester United and Arsenal for his signature.

 Real Madrid Transfer News Roundup: Los Blancos remain hopeful of extending Toni Kroos stay; club receive setback in pursuit of Bayern Munich forward, and more - June 29, 2022

Real Madrid remain determined to upgrade their squad this summer. Manager Carlo Ancelotti enjoyed a fruitful campaign at the Santiago Bernabeu and will look to continue his team's domestic and continental dominance next season.

Meanwhile, Los Blancos are hopeful of extending Toni Kroos' stay at the club. Elsewhere, the La Liga and European champions have suffered a setback in their pursuit of a Bayern Munich forward.

On that note, here's a look at the key Real Madrid transfer stories as on June 29, 2022:

Real Madrid remain hopeful of extending Toni Kroos stay

Real Madrid remain hopeful of tying Toni Kroos down to a new deal, according to Cadena SER via AS.

The German midfielder’s contract expires next summer. The La Liga champions are eager to begin negotiations for a new deal, but Kroos wants to bide his time. Los Blancos are surprised by his stance but remain hopeful of convincing him to stay.

The La Liga giants wish to extend the 32-year-old’s contract till 2024. However, Kroos is eager to ensure he can perform at the highest level before committing himself to the club.

He also acknowledges that the younger players could be pushing for a place in the starting XI next season. As such, the German midfielder wants to make a decision on his future at the end of next campaign.

Los Blancos receive setback in Serge Gnabry pursuit

Real Madrid have received a setback in their pursuit of Serge Gnabry. According to Kicker via AS, the German prefers to extend his stay at Bayern Munich. The 26-year-old is set to enter the final year of his contract with the Bavarians next month. Gnabry is locked in a contract standoff with the Bundesliga giants, prompting interest from Madrid.

Los Blancos are eager to add more bite to their attack after missing out on Kylian Mbappe. Gnabry has emerged as a possible target. The German has been in outstanding form for Bayern since joining them in 2018, scoring 63 goals from 171 appearances. So Los Blancos want to take him to the Santiago Bernabeu.

However, it appears Gnabry prefers to stay at the Allianz Arena, and Bayern are also optimistic of tying him down to a new contract.

Tite reveals seeking Carlo Ancelotti advice regarding Vinicius Junior

Brazil national team manager Tite has revealed that he contacted Carlo Ancelotti for advice regarding Vinicius Junior. The Real Madrid forward was in superb form last season, helping the club win multiple trophies. The 21-year-old ended the campaign with 22 goals from 52 games across competitions.

Speaking recently, Tite compared Vinicus with Neymar.

"When we were in training, I said to Vini 'You are the Neymar of 2014', because the Neymar of Barcelona and the national team at that time was a Neymar on the wing, whereas today he is in the centre," said Tite.

He added:

"They say Neymar will make more mistakes playing there. But it's his position that makes him make more mistakes, because everything he does in creative terms there will be decisive."

Tite went on to reveal that he was in touch with Ancelotti to help Vinicius flourish with the Selecao.

"His maturity at Real Madrid took two years, but in the national team it's much faster. It's more natural, as if he's taken some of the weight off his shoulders. I asked Ancelotti for advice on what we could do, what tactical functions they did at Real Madrid to help the national team play as they do at Real Madrid," said Tite.

He continued:

"We talked about offensive situations that would give him creative freedom, one on one. It's a beautiful and transparent thing from two coaches who want to get the best out of him."

Related： Leeds UnitedParis Saint-GermainBayern MunichReal MadridKroosNeymarAncelottiTiteGnabryFirpoVinicius

 Real Madrid Transfer News Roundup: Toni Kroos looking to leave in 2023; Los Blancos wanted Erling Haaland this summer, and more - June 21, 2022

Real Madrid have the opportunity to add more quality to their squad this summer after a brilliant campaign. Manager Carlo Ancelotti has already secured the services of Antonio Rudiger and Aurelien Tchouameni as he targets more domestic and continental success next season.

Meanwhile, Toni Kroos is planning to leave the Santiago Bernabeu in 2023. Elsewhere, acclaimed transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has said that Los Blancos wanted Erling Haaland this summer.

On that note, here's a look at the key Real Madrid transfer stories as on June 21, 2022:

Toni Kroos looking to leave Real Madrid in 2023

Toni Kroos is contemplating a departure from the Santiago Bernabeu in 2023, according to Cadena SER via AS.

The German midfielder continues to be a vital cog in Ancelotti’s midfield at the Santiago Bernabeu. The 32-year-old’s contract with the La Liga giants expires next summer, but he has turned down an offer to extend his stay. Kroos wants to make a decision on his future depending on how the 2022-23 campaign pans out.

The German is determined not to be a burden on Los Blancos. He previously said that he would only stay as long as he can contribute on the pitch. With the likes of Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni in the squad, Kroos could call time on his stay at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Los Blancos wanted Erling Haaland this summer, reveals Fabrizio Romano

Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Real Madrid were locked in negotiations to sign Erling Haaland this summer. The Norwegian hitman was linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu but agreed to join Manchester City instead.

In his column for Caught Offside, Romano suggested that Haaland chose City over Los Blancos.

“Staying on Manchester City for a moment, my understanding is that the club have not yet released any details on Erling Haaland’s release clause and do not want to comment. I think it is also something that we can understand, since Erling has just joined the club, and there is no need to comment on future scenarios,” wrote Romano.

He added:

“Real Madrid certainly negotiated for Haaland; there was more than one meeting for Erling to join Madrid, but it was the player who chose Manchester, not Real Madrid who rejected Haaland.”

Romano added that a move to La Liga remains a possibility for Haaland in the future, but there are no ongoing negotiations right now.

“Spain is a possibility for his future, but to date, any reports about negotiations or release clauses are not correct. Man City want to plan with Haaland for the present and future, so there are not even contacts with anyone else,” wrote Romano.

Chelsea preparing move for Eder Militao

Chelsea are preparing to move for Eder Militao this summer, according to Fichajes via The Hard Tackle.

The Blues are eager to strengthen their backline after seeing Antonio Rudiger move to the Santiago Bernabeu. The Premier League giants are now looking to raid Real Madrid to find a solution to their conundrum.

Militao is one of the lowest paid players at the La Liga giants. So the Blues are likely to tempt him with a lucrative contract.

However, Ancelotti has Militao firmly in his plans and has no desire to let him leave. The 24-year-old’s contract expires in 2025, and Los Blancos are already working to hand him a new contract. So a move to Stamford Bridge might not be easy to complete.

 Real Madrid Transfer News Roundup: Los Blancos willing to offload Ferland Mendy this summer; Gareth Bale not joining Getafe, and more - June 11, 2022

Real Madrid are working to strengthen their squad this summer.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti oversaw a highly successful season at the Santiago Bernabeu after joining last summer, winning the La Liga and the UEFA Champions League. However, the Italian will be eager for improvements to his squad ahead of the new campaign.

Meanwhile, Los Blancos are willing to offload Ferland Mendy this summer. Elsewhere, Gareth Bale has revealed that he is not joining Getafe.

On that note, here's a look at the key Real Madrid transfer stories as on June 11, 2022:

Real Madrid willing to offload Ferland Mendy this summer

Real Madrid are willing to offload Ferland Mendy this summer, according to Managing Madrid via AS.

The French left-back’s future at the Santiago Bernabeu is up in the air following the signing of Antonio Rudiger.

The German defender’s arrival could push David Alaba to the left-back slot, tempting the La Liga giants to move Mendy on.

However, Los Blancos are not in a hurry to push him out the door. Mendy’s presence will give Carlo Ancelotti more cover for the full-back position.

The Spanish giants would be willing to do business if they receive an offer of €50 million for the player.

Gareth Bale not joining Getafe

Gareth Bale has revealed that he will not be joining Getafe this summer.

The Welsh winger will leave Real Madrid as a free agent at the end of the month. Although he has been recently offered to Getafe by his agent, the 32-year-old is yet to make a decision on his future.

Speaking recently, Bale admitted that his future will be influenced by the FIFA World Cup, as he wants to be in peak form for the tournament.

“The World Cup influences it. Any player will have one eye on the World Cup because it’s a major tournament that everyone wants to play in and test themselves. I want to be playing going into the World Cup to be as fit as I can. Once I play regular football my body will get more robust and better. It’s very difficult when you’re in and out of a team. I need to play games and I’ll be good to go” said Bale.

He continued:

“I’m obviously not doing football for the money. I want to be playing to get that fitness for the competition and to help the club I’m at. Whoever I go to it'll be a win-win because I'll be playing, hopefully playing well and getting myself ready for the World Cup.”

Bale added that he has not yet decided on his next destination but confirmed that he is not joining Getafe.

“No. But I'm not going to Getafe that's for sure! I haven’t had any (talks) yet. I haven’t really thought too much about it because it’s only been five days since qualifying. I have a summer holiday and I’ll have time to speak to my wife, my family and my agent,” said Bale.

He added:

“Those conversations will happen after the internationals have finished and I will then decide where I want to be. Whether it will be six months, one year, two years, I have no idea. I’ll sit down and see what excites me the most and what I want to do.”

Toni Kroos opens up on his future

Toni Kroos believes it is important to want to win every game as a Real Madrid player.

The German midfielder has been an indispensable part of Los Blancos’ starting XI in recent years. He is fast approaching the twilight of his career but remains as important as ever for Carlo Ancelotti.

Speaking to Kicker, Kroos said that he would continue playing as long as he enjoys on the pitch.

“You can only be successful if you want to. If you no longer feel this will, then you can stop. I always want that feeling of winning every game. In every competition. That's the basic idea at Real Madrid. Less is not possible and will not be accepted. If at some point the fun stops, I stop immediately. That requires respect for Real Madrid,” said Kroos.

Gunmen kidnap mother of Kano Senatorial Candidate, A.A ZAURA 

Early today we had a shock news that Unknown gunmen suspected to be terrorists have kidnapped mother of a Senatorial candidate under the platform of All Progressive Congress, APC in Kano State, Abdulkarim Abdulsalam Zaura, popularly known as, A.A Zaura.

It was gathered that the aged mother of the politician, Hajia Laure Mai Kunu was kidnapped in the midnight at her residence in Rangaza ward of Zaura village, Ungogo Local government area of the state.

The Chairman of Ungogo Local Government, Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat confirmed the development on Monday morning.

Engr. Ramat in a post on his Facebook timeline said, “We just woke up to a sad news that: unknown gunmen stormed Ungogo LGA early this morning and whisked the mother of AA ZAURA away to an unknown destination.

“We pray to Allah to set her free from captivity,” the council chairman said.

When contacted, the spokesperson of the Kano State Police Command, SP Abdullahi Haruna also confirmed the incident.

SP Haruna said the command has deployed it tactical team on search and rescue mission to rescue the victim.

Meanwhile, it was gathered that the incident was not the first time in the area.

 Ansace Wani Dan uwan tsohon Shugaban kasa Good luck ebele Jonathan

Rundunar ‘yan sandan Bayelsa ta tabbatar da sace wani dan uwan ​​tsohon shugaban kasa Goodluck Jonathan,

 

Mista Mike Ogiasa. Bincike ya nuna cewa Ogiasa wanda shi ne shugaban kungiyar siyasa da zamantakewar al’umma mai suna Muryar Kudu-maso-Kudu, ya kasance kan gaba wajen tsara Jonathan a zaben 2023. 

Majiyoyi sun ce an sace Ogiasa ne a ranar Alhamis 2 ga watan Yuni, amma ‘yan uwa sun yi ta rufa-rufa suna ganin cewa masu garkuwar za su tuntube su domin su biya su kudin fansa cikin nutsuwa.

 Sai dai kusan sa'o'i 48 da sace shi kuma babu wani bayani daga wadanda suka sace shi sai da iyalan su kai rahoto ga 'yan sanda domin gudanar da bincike tare da kubutar da shi. 

Wata majiya a unguwar ta ce Ogiasa ya kammala wani taro a unguwar ne wasu ‘yan bindigar da suka kai 8 suka mamaye gidansa a daidai lokacin da ya fito daga taron suka yi waje da shi.

 “Hakika ya shirya komawa Yenagoa a karshen taron, amma wasu sun yi nasara a kan ya jira har zuwa safiyar gobe. Yana cikin gida ne ‘yan bindigar suka iso suka yi awon gaba da shi,” inji majiyar.

 Kakakin Rundunar ’Yan sandan Jihar Bayelsa, SP Asinim Butswat, ya tabbatar da cewa an sace Mike Ogiasa ne a ranar 2 ga watan Yuni, kuma ‘yan sanda na binciken lamarin domin kubutar da shi.