Football Transfer Rumours: Rashford in Man Utd Exit Talks as Real Madrid Face Alexander-Arnold Setback

Premier League Clubs Circle Dean Huijsen; Lewandowski Successor Eyed by Barcelona

The summer transfer window might not officially be open yet, but the rumour mill is already in full swing across Europe. With some of the biggest names in world football either angling for a move or being eyed up by ambitious clubs, there’s plenty to unpack.

From Marcus Rashford’s potential Manchester United departure to Barcelona’s long-term striker planning and Real Madrid’s frustrations over Trent Alexander-Arnold, here’s your deep dive into the week’s most intriguing transfer developments.

Rashford Eyes Barcelona Move Amid Man Utd Exit Talks

Perhaps the most eye-catching rumour of the week surrounds Marcus Rashford. The Manchester United forward has reportedly joined forces with veteran super agent Pini Zahavi to secure a move away from Old Trafford this summer.

While Aston Villa were previously floated as a potential destination, those talks have cooled considerably, with Villa not keen on a permanent deal. Instead, Rashford’s camp has begun preliminary talks with Barcelona, as the Spanish giants weigh up a bid.

United are said to be open to letting Rashford go for as little as €35m (£29.8m)—a figure that, while surprisingly low for a player of his pedigree, reflects his inconsistent form in recent seasons. Whether Barcelona, facing ongoing financial constraints, can meet even that reduced price remains to be seen.

Arsenal, Liverpool & Chelsea Vying for Dean Huijsen

Elsewhere, the race for one of Europe’s most exciting young defenders is heating up. Juventus centre-back Dean Huijsen, who spent part of last season out on loan, is attracting significant interest from the Premier League.

Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea have all been linked with the 19-year-old, who reportedly has a £50m release clause.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, all three clubs are monitoring Huijsen closely as they weigh up moves to bolster their backlines with youth and quality. The Dutchman is seen as a long-term investment who could anchor a defence for the next decade.

Arsenal Target Kudus as West Ham Brace for Exit

Staying with Arsenal, the Gunners are said to be plotting a big-money bid for Mohammed Kudus. The West Ham star has impressed in his first Premier League season, drawing admirers across the top six.

Reports out of Spain suggest Mikel Arteta’s side are prepared to table a €70m (£59.7m) offer to bring the Ghanaian international to the Emirates. However, there’s a twist: Kudus himself is reportedly more keen on a move to Liverpool, fresh off their Premier League title triumph.

A tug-of-war could be on the cards, with both clubs likely to guarantee Champions League football next season—something Kudus is known to value highly.

Real Madrid’s Alexander-Arnold Plans Hit Snag

On the continent, Real Madrid’s hopes of securing Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool have encountered an early stumbling block.

The right-back, who has already announced he won’t be renewing his deal with Liverpool, is widely expected to join Los Blancos. Madrid are keen to have him on board ahead of this summer’s Club World Cup and have even offered over £500,000 to terminate his Liverpool contract a month early.

But Liverpool, ever the tough negotiators, are standing firm for now. They don’t appear willing to compromise on timing or compensation, which could delay the inevitable by a few weeks.

Barcelona Eye Julian Alvarez as Lewandowski’s Heir

Back in Catalonia, Barcelona have their sights set on a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski, whose performances, while still solid, are naturally declining with age.

The name at the top of president Joan Laporta’s wishlist? Julian Alvarez. The Argentine forward has enjoyed a strong season with Manchester City and is now being touted as the heir to Lewandowski’s throne at Camp Nou.

Alvarez’s versatility, work rate and eye for goal have made him a favourite under Pep Guardiola, but Barca believe a persuasive offer—and the lure of a starring role—might be enough to tempt him away.

Vlahovic, Ait-Nouri and Richarlison Also in Demand

Richarlison looks like he’s heading towards a Tottenham exit / Transfer / Jean Catuffe/GettyImages

In other striker news, Arsenal are still tracking Dusan Vlahovic. The Serbian is reportedly set to leave Juventus this summer, and the Gunners are said to be preparing a €60m (£51.1m) bid to bring him to north London.

Meanwhile, Manchester City are also active in the market and have zeroed in on Wolves full-back Rayan Ait-Nouri as a top defensive target. The Algerian international is valued at around £40m, a fee City would be willing to pay for a player who fits their system well.

Across town, Tottenham are looking to offload Richarlison and are hoping to recoup around £40m. The Brazilian has struggled with injuries and consistency, and a romantic return to Everton has been floated.

Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool Chase Ajax’s Jorrel Hato

Real Madrid aren’t just looking to shore up their right flank; their left side could also see new faces this summer. Ajax teenager Jorrel Hato is firmly on their radar—but they’ll face stiff competition from Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool.

The 19-year-old has made a strong impression in the Eredivisie and is seen as one of Europe’s most promising left-backs. His potential move could spark a bidding war, with English clubs possibly holding the financial edge.

John Stones Linked with Everton Reunion

A move that could tug at the heartstrings is a potential return to Everton for Manchester City defender John Stones. Once a rising star at Goodison Park, Stones could be set for a Premier League homecoming as his time at City appears to be nearing an end.

Everton are reportedly open to re-signing the England international—although much will depend on Stones’ wage demands and City’s asking price.

Christensen, Gittens and Comuzzo Also on the Radar

In Barcelona, Andreas Christensen could be on his way out, with the Danish defender reportedly open to a Premier League return. His availability on a free transfer is likely to spark interest across England.

Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens is being targeted by both Chelsea and Arsenal, with the latter reportedly ready to make the first move.

Another name generating buzz is Fiorentina’s Pietro Comuzzo. The 18-year-old defender has enjoyed a breakout season in Serie A, and Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United have all sent scouts to watch him in recent months.

Kleindienst Courted by Multiple English Clubs

Finally, Borussia Monchengladbach striker Tim Kleindienst is attracting attention from multiple mid-table Premier League clubs. Everton, West Ham, Tottenham and Wolves are all said to be monitoring his situation, with the 28-year-old potentially available for a modest transfer fee. A summer transfer now looks increasingly likely, as the striker appears open to a move and several clubs prepare formal transfer offers.