Transfer News: Barcelona’s Pursuit of Replacements
As Robert Lewandowski approaches the end of his contract with Barcelona this summer, the club is actively seeking replacements. According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Tottenham’s Harry Kane and Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez are high on their list.
Kane, aged 32, has sparked considerable interest due to his stunning performance this season and a relatively accessible release clause of €65 million. On the other hand, 25-year-old Álvarez is expected to be a tougher negotiation as he is tied to Atlético Madrid until 2030, with a potential transfer fee estimated at around €100 million.
Alongside strengthening their forward line, Barcelona is also anticipated to pursue a left-back, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Alejandro Grimaldo emerging as a key target.
Bayern Munich’s Young Talent Acquisition
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich is turning its sights to the young talent Rayan from Vasco da Gama. The 19-year-old forward has gained attention for his impressive tally of 12 goals in just 31 matches in Brazil’s Serie A, making him a coveted prospect for several European teams.
Bayern is also considering Santos’ left-back Souza, another 19-year-old who is beginning to draw stylistic comparisons to the legendary Brazilian, Marcelo.
Manchester City and Liverpool’s Transfer Strategies
In other developments, Manchester City has entered the competition to potentially acquire Feyenoord’s right-back Givairo Read, who has recently been associated with Bayern Munich as they seek to find a long-term successor for Konrad Laimer. City may aim for a bid in 2026, though several options for right-backs are being evaluated. Read showcased his potential by earning an international debut for the Netherlands Under-21 team last month.
Liverpool’s plans to sign Bayern’s Dayot Upamecano on a free transfer are looking bleak, as internal reports suggest Bayern is optimistic about renewing Upamecano’s contract. The 27-year-old French defender has significantly contributed to the team since his 2021 arrival, having made over 100 appearances, and if he does leave, he is reportedly inclined to join either Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid.
Other Notable Transfer Activities
Chelsea is reportedly keeping a close eye on 16-year-old João Bezerra, an international forward who recently committed to his first professional contract in October. However, he will not be eligible to transfer to Europe until he turns 18.
Manchester United’s midfield plans are unfolding, with the club reportedly considering three prospects—Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, and Brighton’s Carlos Baleba—due to an expected departure of Casemiro next summer, which may free up funds for important transfers.
The transfer window activity continues across Europe, with clubs like Al Ahli’s Ivan Toney expressing eagerness to rejoin the Premier League amid interest from Tottenham and Everton. Additionally, Galatasaray is eyeing Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman, while Everton is monitoring Bologna’s Santiago Castro for January reinforcements. Finally, Club America has shown interest in Chicago Fire’s Oscar Pineda after his standout performances at the FIFA U17 World Cup for Mexico.
