Friday's Biggest Transfer Rumours

The transfer market is beginning to accelerate.

Barcelona have publicly declared they are ready to sign Julián Álvarez, Atlético Madrid insist the Argentine is going nowhere, while Victor Osimhen’s future has taken another intriguing twist.

Here are the biggest transfer stories from Friday, 17 July.

Barcelona ready to move for Julián Álvarez

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed the Spanish champions are prepared to sign Julián Álvarez this summer.

The Argentina forward has already admitted he wants a new challenge after helping his country reach another World Cup final, with Barcelona understood to be his preferred destination despite interest from Arsenal and PSG.

Reports suggest Barcelona’s current package is already worth more than £100m, with bonuses capable of pushing the deal beyond £110m.

Atlético refuse to budge

Barcelona’s optimism has been met with a firm response from Madrid.

Atlético CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín says the club have absolutely no intention of selling Álvarez, claiming they rejected offers of €100m and would even turn down bids worth €200m.

With a reported €500m release clause in his contract, Atlético are making it clear the striker is not available at any realistic price.

Could an Alvarez exit open the door for Osimhen?

While Atlético insist Álvarez is staying, speculation around Victor Osimhen refuses to disappear.

Reports this week have linked Diego Simeone’s side with the Nigeria striker, particularly if circumstances around Álvarez change before the transfer window closes.

Galatasaray, however, are doing everything possible to convince Osimhen to remain in Turkey.

The Turkish champions are reportedly ready to hand him both the iconic number nine shirt and the captain’s armband following Mauro Icardi’s departure.

Arsenal prepare Morgan Rogers move

Arsenal have identified Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers as one of their priority attacking targets this summer.

Villa remain determined to keep hold of the England international after tying him down to a long-term contract until 2031, meaning any deal is expected to cost north of £100m.

Formal talks are yet to begin, but the Gunners are expected to make an approach.

Salah decision edging closer

Mohamed Salah’s next club could soon become clear.

The Egyptian forward remains a free agent after leaving Liverpool, with his agent Ramy Abbas Issa suggesting a decision is likely to arrive “very soon.”

While speculation continues, his representatives insist they are only speaking with clubs Salah genuinely wants to join.

Uche set for Getafe stay

Nigeria midfielder Christantus Uche looks increasingly likely to remain at Getafe.

After returning from a difficult loan spell at Crystal Palace, reports in Spain suggest both the player and manager José Bordalás want to continue working together ahead of the new La Liga campaign.

The 22-year-old has already rejoined pre-season training and is expected to play an important role this season.

Around the transfer market

Inter Milan are pursuing Tottenham full-back Djed Spence and Spurs defender Cristian Romero.
Liverpool remain favourites to sign Mainz midfielder Kaishu Sano.
Arsenal are monitoring Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa.
Liverpool have made enquiries over Bournemouth winger Rayan.
Newcastle are continuing talks for goalkeepers James Trafford and Carl Rushworth.
Leeds remain interested in Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.
Crystal Palace are tracking Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima.
Fulham have joined the race for Strasbourg winger Martial Godo.