Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez has informed Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain that his priority is to join Barcelona this summer, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Argentina international reportedly made his preference clear through his representatives, who are focused on securing a move to the Camp Nou despite interest from elsewhere in Europe.
Atlético have shown reluctance to sell Álvarez to a direct LaLiga rival and pushed back publicly, accusing Barcelona of a “relentless smear campaign” and mocking the Catalan club’s pursuit of the forward in a series of social media posts, the report added.
Barcelona are also linked with a separate offensive for Manchester United winger Marcus Rashford, the Daily Mail reports. Rashford is due to return to United after a loan spell at Barça, but the Spanish club — having already signed Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United — are said to plan an attempt to sign Rashford later in the window once some financial restrictions are eased.
Elsewhere in Spain, Diario AS reports incoming Real Madrid coach José Mourinho does not intend to demand “star signings,” preferring players described as “hungry” and “with no ego.” Mourinho is said to want one or two centre-backs, a right-back, a left-back and two midfielders. Cadena COPE adds that sources in Rodri’s camp have held conversations with Enrique Riquelme, a Madrid presidential candidate who expressed interest in the midfielder, though no negotiations took place.
Italy and England transfer links also surfaced: Corriere dello Sport reports Inter Milan are considering a move for Manchester City defender Rúben Dias if Yann Bisseck leaves, with the club exploring an initial loan with an obligation to buy. Christian Falk says Bayern Munich have monitored Bisseck, who could be available for about €40 million. BILD reports Manchester United and Aston Villa are monitoring Borussia Dortmund defender Waldemar Anton. Separately, ESPN sources say Andoni Iraola is the leading candidate to succeed Arne Slot as Liverpool head coach.
