22 Jul 2026 06:55 BST |
6 min read
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Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has delivered the latest news from the market, including Aston Villa’s move for Alejandro Garnacho, Manchester United’s midfield plans and Real Madrid’s stance over France Mastantuono.
Klopp and Zidane appointments confirmed
Romano confirmed two managerial moves that have been expected for several weeks.
“Jurgen Klopp will sign this week as the new Germany head coach, so everything is set to make it happen,” the transfer insider explained.
“And it’s also important to mention Zinedine Zidane because he has already signed his contract as the new France head coach.
“So it’s a double ‘here we go’ confirmed: Zidane for France and Klopp for Germany. Two important names returning to the game.”
Aston Villa make official Garnacho bid
Romano then explained the latest on Aston Villa’s hopes of signing Alejandro Garnacho from Chelsea.
He explained that the Argentine initially prioritised a move to Roma because he was attracted by the prospect of playing in Italy, but Villa are now pushing hard to complete a deal.
“Contacts took place today. Aston Villa have sent an official bid to Chelsea,” Romano said.
“It’s a loan deal with the salary covered and also a buy option clause that could become mandatory under certain conditions.
“So it’s not a guaranteed obligation to buy, but there is the possibility to activate that obligation next summer.”
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has personally driven the club’s pursuit, Romano said.
“Emery made sure Alejandro Garnacho got the message that he is an important target,” he explained.
“He really appreciates Garnacho and believes he can help him go to the next level at an important moment of his career.
“So Emery wants Garnacho, Emery has approved Garnacho and the conversations are ongoing.”
He noted that Aston Villa have previously asked about Nicolas Jackson, although that move has yet to develop.
Nottingham Forest advancing for Ousmane Diomande
Romano also provided an update on Sporting centre-back Ousmane Diomande, noting Nottingham Forest are closing in on a deal for the centre-back.
“Nottingham Forest are very serious on this deal and they are in advanced talks to get it done,” he said.
“After signing Xaver Schlager in midfield, Forest have offered £30m for Diomande.
“The negotiation is underway, the player is open to making the switch and Oliver Glasner has already got in touch to push on this one.”
Romano believes Forest are firmly in the race.
“Diomande could be the next big signing by Nottingham Forest,” he said.
“We have to closely monitor the situation, but Forest are on it. It’s a serious possibility and it would be a huge signing.”
Man Utd dismiss goalkeeper and winger links
Romano then addressed several Manchester United rumours that have surfaced in recent days, specifically denying reports linking United with Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill.
“That story is not true,” he explained.
“Manchester United signed Karl Darlow from Leeds. Senne Lammens is the first goalkeeper, Darlow will be the backup, Tom Heaton is the third goalkeeper, while Altay Bayindir is expected to leave.
“So for the goalkeeper, no movements.”
Romano played down speculation linking United with Ismaila Sarr and Crysencio Summerville.
“For Sarr it’s exactly the same as Summerville,” he noted.
“Many people say there are advanced talks or concrete negotiations with Manchester United, but the reality is that Manchester United are not advancing for any winger while Marcus Rashford is still there.
“So at the moment there is nothing concrete for Ismaila Sarr.”
He added that United’s position has not changed despite Summerville moving closer to Al Hilal.
“United are not advancing until Marcus Rashford leaves,” he said.
Manu Kone remains on United shortlist
Romano also clarified Manchester United’s midfield plans.
He explained that reports linking the club with PSG midfielder Warren Zaire-Emery are fanciful because Luis Enrique’s side are not looking to offload the France star.
“Paris Saint-Germain want to stay with the players they have,” Romano said.
“They’ve completed a new contract for Fabian Ruiz and they’re happy with the midfield department.
“So at the moment the Zaire-Emery story is difficult. I would describe him more as a dream target than a real target for Manchester United.”
Romano said Manu Kone is a far more realistic option for the Red Devils.
“For Manu Kone, Manchester United had contacts with the player’s camp last week, as I told you,” he said.
“Those conversations continue, but United have to decide how much they can spend on a defensive midfielder before taking the next steps.”
He added that negotiations with Roma have not yet begun.
“Manu Kone remains on Manchester United’s list, but there is still no bid to Roma and no club-to-club negotiations,” Romano explained.
“And if you see reports of €85m or €90m, I’m told that’s not accurate. I’m hearing the price tag would be lower.”
Real Madrid weighing Mastantuono loan
Romano finished with an update on Franco Mastantuono’s immediate future at Real Madrid.
He revealed that several clubs have approached Los Blancos about taking the teenager on loan.
“Real Madrid are not interested in a permanent deal,” he said.
“They still believe in the player and know that he needs some time to develop and adapt.
“They are going to discuss with Mastantuono, his agent and his family the possibility of going on a straight loan.
“No option to buy, no obligation to buy.
“It would be a bit like the Endrick formula – go on loan, develop and then return to Real Madrid.”
Romano added that Jose Mourinho is fully involved in discussions over Mastantuono’s development.
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