Transfer Rumours: Kevin Schade talks opened as Man Utd battle erupts

26 Sept 2026 06:32 BST |
3 min read

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FootballTransfers runs through the biggest rumours and gossip from 26 September, including the latest updates on Kevin Schade, Finn Jeltsch and Alessandro Bastoni.

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Schade talks amid Arsenal interest

Brentford have held talks with Kevin Schade over an improved contract, Sky Sports understands.

The Bees are keen to reward the Germany international for a strong start to the season and to fend off interest from bigger clubs. Schade has been tracked by Premier League heavyweights for years.

Chelsea and Tottenham previously showed an interest, but it is thought that Arsenal and Liverpool have emerged as his keenest suitors this year. Brentford are keen to protect Schade’s value, with his current deal set to expire in 2028.

Real Madrid eye Jeltsch

Stuttgart defender Finn Jeltsch has become “an option” for Real Madrid, AS reports.

The 20-year-old has established himself as one of the most promising centre-back prospects in the Bundesliga, and he is also capable of deputising at right-back. Jeltsch was recently linked with Man Utd.

Now, Real Madrid are also showing an interest as they continue to be attentive to the defender market. Los Blancos have comprehensively overhauled their backline over the past two summers, but they still might have to do more in 2027.

Bastoni wanted

Inter centre-back Alessandro Bastoni is again emerging as a target for various high-profile suitors, TEAMtalk claims.

The Italy international was considered by Barcelona in the summer, and he was understood to be keen on the move, but the deal did not materialise for financial reasons. The Blaugrana remain interested and could try again in 2027.

However, they are expected to face Premier League competition, with Liverpool and Chelsea also among his suitors. Bastoni is open to a Premier League move, although he would favour Barcelona.

Second Balde chance

Man Utd could make a second attempt at signing Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde in January, as per The Daily Briefing.

The Red Devils are among the clubs to have been contacted by the Catalans amid the latter’s search for a potential buyer. Barcelona are looking to raise funds by selling Balde and were already prepared to listen to offers in the summer.

Man Utd held talks over the Spaniard but ultimately baulked at the financial package required to sign him. They could revisit the deal mid-season, but Balde has also been offered to Liverpool and Chelsea.

Olmo offered around

Dani Olmo is another Barcelona player who could be on the move next year, TEAMtalk writes.

On Thursday, it was claimed that the Spain star had become a January target for Bayern Munich. Now, it is added that he is being offered to various clubs by intermediaries. Olmo has only started twice in LaLiga so far this season.

Arsenal, Chelsea, Man Utd, Man City and Tottenham have all been made aware of his potential availability, though it is believed that he could cost up to €70 million in January, and there are no formal discussions with any interested parties yet.

More transfer rumours

Juventus have made fresh contact with Man City over Rayan Ait-Nouri. (Gazzetta dello Sport)

Premier League clubs are attentive to Marcos Llorente’s contract talks with Atletico Madrid as he could be available for free next year. (TEAMtalk)

Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest have shown interest in Al-Ahli’s French youth international Valentin Atangana. (L’Equipe)

AS Roma, Juventus and Premier League clubs are keen on Sassuolo teenager Daryl Bakola. (Corriere dello Sport)

Michael Olise is reticent to return to the Premier League and would prefer to play in Spain after his time at Bayern. (TEAMtalk)

Napoli are unhappy with attackers Lorenzo Lucca and Noa Lang and could look to offload them in January. (Nicolo Schira)

Tottenham could make a move for Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey in January. (Football Insider)