16 Jul 2026 07:33 BST |
6 min read
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Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has provided the latest transfer news, including Chelsea’s continued interest in Maxence Lacroix, Manchester United’s pursuit of Manu Kone, Liverpool’s stance on Bradley Barcola and the truth behind speculation linking Marcus Rashford with Fenerbahce.
Mikel Oyarzabal not expected to leave Real Sociedad
Romano began by explaining why Spain star Mikel Oyarzabal is highly unlikely to leave Real Sociedad despite recent transfer speculation.
“Let me clarify something on the future of Mikel Oyarzabal,” Romano told his YouTube channel.
“There is a release clause in his contract and it is very high, €75 million. That is the price to sign Oyarzabal.
“But it’s not only about the money. It’s something similar to the situation with Nico Williams. He had opportunities to join Barcelona, Arsenal, Chelsea and Bayern over several years, but always wanted to stay at Athletic Club.
“Oyarzabal has the same feeling. He is from San Sebastian, he loves Real Sociedad, he loves living there and he is very focused on the club’s project.
“So once again, for Oyarzabal it’s €75m or nothing, and at the moment he is very happy at Real Sociedad.”
Chelsea continue Maxence Lacroix talks
Romano then returned to Chelsea’s search for defensive reinforcements following France’s World Cup exit.
“I mentioned Maxence Lacroix at the end of June and he remains on Chelsea’s shortlist,” Romano said.
“Chelsea are still working behind the scenes on a deal for Maxence Lacroix.
“He is one of the most appreciated centre-backs on their list. Contacts have already taken place with the club and with the player’s representatives.
“Chelsea remain very keen on Lacroix. They want to sign one centre-back, possibly two depending on departures, and Lacroix remains one of the top names they are considering.
“Pep Chavarria is a completely different story because he is a left-back or left wing-back, but negotiations for him are also continuing.
“Even if I don’t mention Lacroix every day, you should know the conversations are absolutely ongoing.”
Manchester United considering Manu Kone
Romano also provided a fresh update on Manchester United’s search for another midfielder.
“I told you yesterday that Manchester United are not done in midfield,” he said.
“They signed Andre Santos, they signed Youri Tielemans, Ederson is not happening and that deal is 100 per cent off. There is no chance to revisit it. That’s absolute nonsense.
“The reality is that Manchester United are looking for a defensive midfielder and Manu Kone is one of the names on their shortlist. They have already had a phone conversation with the player’s agents and the relationship between the agents and Manchester United is excellent.
“As of today, Roma have not received any formal approach. Manchester United have not sent a bid and have not made contact with the club.
“We have to wait because United have several names on their shortlist and they will decide which player they want.
“This summer they have worked very differently. In previous years they were slow, but now they move quickly. They paid the clause for Youri Tielemans and they got the deal done. Chelsea wanted £50m for Andre Santos, United offered £48m plus £2m and completed the signing.
“I’ve seen reports saying Manu Kone would cost €80m or €90m. That’s not true. He is expensive, but he will cost less than that.
“United have taken information and now they want to take a little time before deciding who will be their next midfield signing.”
Liverpool remain interested in Bradley Barcola
Romano then addressed Bradley Barcola’s future following France’s elimination from the World Cup.
“Now that the World Cup is over for France, Barcola will go on holiday,” Romano explained.
“From next week there will be conversations between his representatives and Paris Saint-Germain.
“The player is not untouchable, but any exit depends on the financial proposals PSG receive.
“At the moment I’m not aware of Arsenal being in active talks. Barcola is one of the names on their shortlist, but Morgan Rogers remains their number one target.
“Liverpool remain interested in Bradley Barcola, but again everything depends on how much Paris Saint-Germain ask for him.
“Negotiations over a new contract are completely blocked at the moment and that’s why Barcola remains one to watch this summer.”
Marcus Rashford not in talks with Fenerbahce
Romano also dismissed reports linking Marcus Rashford with a move to Turkey.
“There have been many reports saying Fenerbahce have made a bid and negotiations are underway,” Romano said.
“But my understanding is that there is nothing between Marcus Rashford and Fenerbahce.
“There are no negotiations and no conversations because, with all due respect to Fenerbahce, Rashford is not considering a move to Turkey at this stage of his career.
“Right now he is focused on the World Cup. After that he will return to Manchester United and start pre-season.
“Michael Carrick is looking forward to working with Marcus Rashford. He wants to see him in training, see his attitude and then decide whether he should stay or leave later in the summer.
“So that’s the situation. He will do pre-season with Manchester United and then everyone will assess what happens next.”
Man Utd not actively pursuing Crysencio Summerville
Romano also clarified Manchester United’s position on Crysencio Summerville.
“Everything depends on Marcus Rashford,” he said.
“While Rashford is still at the club, it would be difficult for Manchester United to add another player in that position.
“United spoke with Summerville’s agents back in June, but they have never made an official approach to West Ham and they have never submitted a bid.
“There are no negotiations and there are no ongoing contacts.
“Summerville is one of the options if Rashford leaves, but at the moment there is nothing concrete, nothing close and nothing advanced.”
No concrete Pep Guardiola talks with Italy
Romano finished by addressing speculation linking Pep Guardiola with the Italy job.
“Many of you have asked if Pep Guardiola will become the next Italy manager,” Romano said.
“The president of the Italian federation has commented on Guardiola and said it would be wonderful to have him.
“But that’s quite obvious. At the moment there is nothing concrete or advanced.
“If anything changes I will come here and tell you, but right now there is nothing more to report.”
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