Transfer News LIVE: Messi signing date set, Man Utd set for double swoop as Chelsea reach Ugarte deal

Key Events

Chelsea reach Ugarte transfer agreement07:52

Hazard to leave Real Madrid19:14

Ancelotti makes Kane demand13:49

Milan in ‘advanced talks’ for Gundogan 12:46

Real Madrid confirm Asensio exit12:34

The 2022/23 domestic season is over in England, but the countdown to the summer transfer window continues.

In just 10 days time, clubs will be free to complete big money deals, with a number of stars already having moves lined up. Manchester United are seemingly closing in on Chelsea’s Mason Mount, having made a formal approach on Saturday and reportedly even agreed personal terms. But the rebuild won’t end there for Erik ten Hag, who continues to pursue England captain Harry Kane.

As for Man City themselves, the future of their Wembley match winner, Ilkay Gundogan, remains unclear. Tellingly, he declined to commit his future to the club after the game, with his contract expiring at the end of this month.

And after it was confirmed Lionel Messi was leaving PSG this week, another playmaker is on the move. Real Madrid confirmed yesterday that £100 million man Eden Hazard would be released this summer, could he be heading back to the Premier League?

Real are now eyeing a Chelsea star star to replace him, having signalled their interest in Kai Havertz. Mauricio Pochetinno’s clear-out at Stamford Bridge is seemingly gathering pace.

Make sure you stay tuned throughout the day so that you don’t miss a single development or rumour…

07:52KEY EVENT

Chelsea reach Ugarte transfer agreement

Chelsea have agreed a €60million (£54m) deal to sign Sporting CP midfielder Manuel Ugarte, report Record in Portugal.

The 22-year-old’s release clause at the Lisbon giants has been activated by the Blues and a deal is imminent, the report adds.

05:34Fraser Watson

Good morning!

Morning everyone.

Well Ilkay Gundogan starred in the FA Cup, but was it the final time we’ll see him in a Man City shirt in England?

Stay with us for all the latest transfer developments and breaking news today.

23:04Jacob Leeks

Ten Hag defends De Gea amid transfer rumours

Erik ten Hag has leapt to the defence of David de Gea after the Manchester United keeper came under fire for his performance in the FA Cup final.

De Gea has been Ten Hag’s first-choice between the sticks for the entirety of the Dutchman’s first season in charge at Old Trafford. But a number of mistakes have plagued his campaign, with a fresh blast coming his way on Saturday.

The Spaniard was criticised for his role in Ilkay Gundogan ‘s second goal, which he could only palm into the bottom corner. That strike proved to be the winner, with United losing their ninth FA Cup final, a new record in the competition.

But Ten Hag was not interested in putting any blame on De Gea and instead defended his keeper. He did admit there were “issues” to address from United’s performance, but he was not focused solely on De Gea.

“In this moment, I don’t want to talk about such issues of criticism because we played all a great season – including David De Gea, he played a fantastic season. Say it like this, we are in the right direction,” Ten Hag said.

Read the full story here

22:35Fraser Watson

Martial injury could affect Man Utd transfer plans

Erik ten Hag’s plans to bring in a new striker this summer have been hampered by a long term injury to Anthony Martial.

He played the final 25 minutes of United’s 2-1 win over Fulham, only to be later diagnosed with a muscle tear in what was deemed his final Premier League appearance for the club. The Dutch boss was planning to sell Martial this summer, in order to free up space in his squad for new arrivals.

The club’s pursuit of a proven goalscorer has intensified of late, with Ten Hag targeting Tottenham’s Harry Kane and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen also being pursued. United have also held talks with Atalanta star Rasmus Hojlund, who has plundered 15 goals in 41 games for his club this season.

But offloading Martial, who was signed by Louis van Gaal back in 2015, has now been complicated by his latest lay-off. Juventus were reportedly tracking the former Monaco man, but are now unlikely to offer to him a permanent deal with no guarantee he’ll be ready for the start of the 2023-24 season.

Read the full story here

22:05Matthew Cooper

Chelsea urged to sign Mitrovic

Ex-Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf has urged his former side to sign Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic this summer.

In an on theSi & Dan Talk Chelsea podcast, Leboeuf said: “We need a striker, and I think we need someone like Aleksandar Mitrovic from Fulham would work. Mitrovic has the real mentality, he would move the dressing room.

“I think Mitrovic has a similar personality to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, he can be that type of guy, he has the mentality of winner. I like solders.

“Those guys never never blink, they never let go, they always face up to it. I love it. He’s done very well for Fulham and he wouldn’t need to move that far away to join Chelsea!”

21:34Jacob Leeks

Avram Glazer refuses to answer takeover questions

Manchester United co-chairman Avram Glazer refused to answer questions about the progress of the takeover of the club at Saturday’s FA Cup final.

The Glazers publicly invited fresh investment into Premier League giants late last year, though the process is continuing to drag on. English businessman Sir Jim Ratcliffe is battling Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani for a full takeover of the club.

Avram has attended several games over the course of this season and has been far the most visible member of the family. Even he has remained quiet and on Saturday ignored Sky News as they attempted to question him in the Wembley mixed zone.

“Are you definitley selling Manchester United? Are you going to accept the Jim Ratcliffe or the Qatari bid? Why are you not speaking to the fans? Don’t the fans deserve to know what’s happening with the takeover?” Sky reporter Rob Harris asked. Glazer though merely carried on walking and paid Harris no attention, before striding through a door away from reporters.

Read the full story here

21:02Matthew Cooper

Messi on PSG departure

Lionel Messi is set to leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer once his contract expires and the forward has broken his silence on his impending exit.

“I would like to thank the club, the city of Paris and its people for these two years,” he said. “I wish you all the best for the future.

“I am happy to have been able to represent PSG — I really enjoyed playing on this team and with such good players. I want to thank the club for a wonderful experience in Paris.”

20:33Matthew Cooper

Hazard contemplating retirement

After agreeing to leave Real Madrid by mutual consent, Eden Hazard is reportedly considering retirement.

According to the Athletic, ‘retirement is an option’ for the 32-year-old whose four seasons at the Bernabeu were marred by injury.

20:00Jacob Leeks

Man Utd urged to axe De Gea

Roy Keane and Jamie Carragher have taken aim at David de Gea, with both calling for Manchester United to replace him in the summer transfer window.

The Spaniard has started all but four games in all competitions this season having been named Erik ten Hag ‘s first choice keeper. But though he won the Premier League’s Golden Glove award, his campaign has been littered with major errors.

He is out of contract at the end of the season and is still yet to put pen to paper on a new deal. That reluctance combined with his performances have led to the belief that Ten Hag will look to bring in a new keeper to at least challenge for De Gea’s starting spot next term.

His suitability to the starting spot at Old Trafford was back under the spotlight on Saturday as United were defeated in the FA Cup final by Manchester City.

Read the full story here

19:14KEY EVENT

Hazard to leave Real Madrid

Eden Hazard is set to leave Real Madrid a year before his deal is due to expire after the two parties agreed to terminate his contract.

Madrid confirmed the news in a statement, which read: “Real Madrid Football Club and Eden Hazard have reached an agreement whereby the player will leave the club as of 30 June 2023.

“Eden Hazard has been part of our club for four seasons, during which time he has won 8 titles: 1 European Cup, 1 Club World Cup, 1 European Super Cup, 2 LaLiga titles, 1 Copa del Rey and 2 Spanish Super Cups.

“Real Madrid would like to express our affection to Eden Hazard and we wish him and his family the best of luck for the next stage of his career.”

19:05Liam Llewellyn

Inter Miami chief addresses Messi rumours

Inter Miami have not ruled out the chance to sign Lionel Messi following his impending exit from PSG.

It has been confirmed that the football icon will leave the French champions after a two-year stint playing at the Parc des Princes. Speculation regarding where the 35-year-old will be playing next season is rampant, with Saudi Arabia interested in acquiring Messi’s services. But David Beckham’s MLS team has emerged as one of the frontrunners for the Argentine’s coveted signature.

When asked about the club’s pursuit of the world cup winner, sporting director Chris Henderson did not dismiss the club’s interest in the player. “I’m not getting into specifics of players who are not on our roster,” he commented.

Read the full story here

18:35Matthew Cooper

Gundogan tight-lipped about future

When asked about his future following the FA Cup final, Gundogan told the BBC: “I don’t need these kinds of days to feel appreciated and special. I know that, that’s why I’ve been here for 7 years, with all the ups and downs I’ve had had. Nothing is decided yet so we will see what will happen.”

18:12Matthew Cooper

Guardiola hopes Gundogan stays after FA Cup final heroics

Ilkay Gundogan scored both of Manchester City’s goals as they beat Manchester United 2-1 in the FA Cup final, but the midfielder could be on the move in the summer.

Gundogan’s contract is set to expire after the Champions League final and Barcelona are among those interested in his services. However, City boss Pep Guardiola is desparate for Gundogan to sign a new deal.

When asked about the player’s future in his post-match press conference, Guardiola said: “[Football director] Txiki (Begiristain) is doing it. Hopefully he will be successful.”

17:37David McDonnell

Casemiro urges United to spend big

Casemiro has admitted Manchester United need to spend big again this summer to have any chance of catching local rivals Manchester City.

United have made progress in Erik ten Hag ‘s first season, finishing third in the Premier League, winning the Carabao Cup and reaching the FA Cup final. Brazil star Casemiro said United – who have gone a decade without winning the title – need to continue to strengthen if they are to challenge for it again.

“When top-class players come in, quality players, it’s always welcome,” said Casemiro. “We always want quality players and it’s always the case that the more options you have, it’s important to have as much quality in the squad as you can. But us players know that there are people who have the knowledge to do that.”

17:09Colin Millar

United learn Hojlund asking price

Manchester United have been told they must pay £43million if they want to sign Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund – who Napoli are monitoring as a possible replacement for Victor Osimhen.

The Denmark international has impressed in his debut season in Bergamo having joined from Sturm Graz last summer. Despite a host of clubs tracking his progress, United and Real Madrid were said to be the most advanced in their interest.

Hojlund is on a six-man striker shortlist at Old Trafford this summer with the club prioritising the addition of a central striker. Anthony Martial, whose future is uncertain, and Marcus Rashford, who prefers to play from the left, are the only two senior strikers on United’s books.

According to TuttoMercatoWeb, United are positioned as the favourites to land the Dane this summer with a £43million bid being enough to secure his services. However, just as interestingly – Napoli are said to have identified the player in the scenario that Osimhen leaves this summer.

Read the full story here

16:35Colin Millar

Casemiro drops Vinicius Jr transfer hint

Casemiro believes Vinicius Junior could leave Real Madrid and join a Premier League club due to the issue of racism in Spanish football.

Last month, Real Madrid’s match against Valencia was paused after Vinicius pointed out the supporters who were taunting him with monkey chants to the referee. The Brazil international was visibly on the verge of tears on the pitch and was clearly incensed, with teammates attempting to quell his anger.

Vinicius was later sent off for violent conduct in added time of his side’s 1-0 defeat following an altercation with Valencia striker Hugo Duro – the first red card of his career. Vinicius struck out at his opponent, who had him in a headlock but escaped punishment following a VAR review. The red card and suspension were subsequently overturned.

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has now spoken on the incident, claiming that his international teammate – whom he played alongside for three seasons at Real Madrid – could leave Spanish football over the ongoing racist abuse in stadiums.

Read the full story here

16:06Sam Meade

Man Utd transfer target spotted at Wembley

Manchester United target Jurrien Timber has been spotted at Wembley ahead of the FA Cup final. The Dutch international watched on as the Red Devils take on Manchester City amid continued links over a move to Old Trafford.

Speculation suggested Timber was one of Erik ten Hag’s main targets but a summer switch failed to materialise and he remains at Ajax. United could return in the coming months as they look to bolster their options and Timber’s presence at Wembley will only lead to increased speculation.

Read the full story here

15:31Fraser Watson

Kane issued Man Utd warning

Harry Kane has been warned that a move to Manchester United won’t guarantee a first major trophy of his career.

The Tottenham strike has already cemented his place in the history books, having scored 213 times in the Premier League. Only Alan Shearer (260) has more, but the current England captain doesn’t have any major silverware to accompany his feats in front of goal.

And with the north London club currently in disarray, without a manager or a sporting director, speculation over Kane’s future has been rife amid links to a move to Old Trafford. Erik ten Hag has made the 29-year-old his prime target as he prepared for United’s return to the Champions League next season, while Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti is also an admirer.

But Sky pundit Paul Merson as sounded caution over Kane’s apparent ambitions, arguing that a move to the red side of Manchester won’t necessarily deliver silverware.

Read the full story here

14:50John Richardson

Gerrard lined up for Leeds job

Leeds United could revisit their plan to install Steven Gerrard and former Elland Road title winner Gary McAllister as their dream managerial pairing.

The duo came close to being appointed earlier this year after Jesse Marsch was sacked only for the Leeds hierarchy to plump for Javi Gracia.

But now after a disastrous season in which Marsch, Gracia and Sam Allardyce failed to prevent Leeds dropping into the Championship Gerrard and McAllister are back in their thoughts.

Leeds also are keen on their former coach Carlos Corberan who worked alongside Marcelo Bielsa but having recently signed a new contract until 2027 they know it would be expensive to prise the Spaniard out of the Hawthorns.

Gerrard and McAllister are available straight away after remaining out of work since being sacked by Aston Villa in October.

Gerrard fancies the challenge of reviving the stricken club while McAllister has Leeds blood in his veins having been part of Howard Wilkinson’s title winning side in 1992 in a midfield alongside David Batty, Gordon Strachan and Gary Speed.

Following talks between the club and Allardyce who was in charge for the last four games it was decided to look elsewhere for a new coaching team.

Gerrard and McAllister are on standby to answer the call after just missing out in the aftermath of Marsch’s exit.

14:20Colin Millar

Newcastle lead Maddison race?

Leicester City are set for a summer exodus of players with James Maddison set to be one of the most in-demand stars.

Newcastle are leading the chase for the playmaker ahead of Tottenham, according to a report in Football Insider.

13:58Colin Millar

No Bayern for Xhaka

Granit Xhaka looks set to leave Arsenal this summer and return to the German Bundesliga.

However, despite suggestions that Bayern Munich could enter the race for the Swiss international – Bayer Leverkusen remains the most likely destination.

News #Xhaka: Been told that Bayern is not hot at this stage. Internally no talks about him yet. Bayern is still working on #Rice!

➡️ Negotiations between Leverkusen and Arsenal are ongoing

➡️ Xhaka still focused on joining Bayer 04 at this stage. @SkySportDE🇨🇭 pic.twitter.com/criM2kSvMa

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) June 2, 2023

13:49KEY EVENT

Ancelotti makes Kane demand

Carlo Ancelotti has told Real Madrid he wants them to sign Harry Kane alongside Jude Bellingham this summer, say The Athletic.

The Spanish club are signing Rayo Vallecano full-back Fran Garcia and have a deal in place to sign Spain international striker Joselu from Espanyol, while it is also believed they will integrate Brahim Diaz into the first-team squad following the conclusion of his loan spell in Milan.

13:36Colin Millar

Cardiff set for new boss

Championship side Cardiff City are on the verge of a managerial appointment after Sabri Lamouchi left the club at the end of the campaign.

BREAKING: Cardiff City are set to appoint former Fenerbahce manager Erol Bulut as their new manager ⚽#BBCFootball

— BBC Sport Wales (@BBCSportWales) June 3, 2023

13:34Colin Millar

Tete on Liverpool shortlist

Fulham right-back Kenny Tete is on Liverpool’s transfer radar this summer, say the Sun.

The Dutch international is entering the final year of his contract and could be available for a fee in the region of £10million, with two other Premier League clubs also in the running.

13:29Colin Millar

Caicedo still on Blues radar

Regardless of Chelsea’ pursuit of Manuel Ugarte from Sporting CP, Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo remains a key summer transfer target for the Blues.

Chelsea remain absolutely INTO the race for Moises Caicedo. Nothing has changed. 🔵 #CFC

He’s in the list, 100% — no matter what happens with Ugarte deal, still ongoing. https://t.co/BK8H8Zl3g7

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 2, 2023

12:55Colin Millar

Kimmich tipped for Barca

Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich is a summer transfer target for Barcelona, say Sky Germany.

The versatile German international has two years remaining on his deal at Bayern but Barca have identified him as a long-term replacement for Sergio Busquets, who is leaving at the end of the campaign.

12:46KEY EVENT

Milan in ‘advanced talks’ for Gundogan

Arsenal and Barcelona have been linked with a move for Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan this summer, but they may be gazumped by Milan.

The Italian giants are in ‘advanced talks’ to sign the experienced German midfielder, who is out of contract this summer, say Corriere dello Sport, as per Football Italia.

12:40Colin Millar

Asensio’s emotional Real Madrid goodbye

Queridos madridistas 🤍 @realmadrid pic.twitter.com/XvNldSUr3k

— Marco Asensio (@marcoasensio10) June 3, 2023

12:34KEY EVENT

Real Madrid confirm Asensio exit

Real Madrid have confirmed Marco Asensio will leave the club at the end of the season.

Comunicado Oficial: Marco Asensio.#RealMadrid

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) June 3, 2023

12:28KEY EVENT

Barcelona confirm Messi is priority

Barcelona boss Xavi has confirmed signing Lionel Messi is the club’s priority in this summer transfer window.

“Our priority is clear. I would really like Leo to return. He knows it, I have spoken with him. It depends on him. Leo is our priority and another is a high-level defensive midfielder. And other priorities, but these are the more important.”

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