In a whirlwind day of transfer gossip, Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a surprising candidate to potentially replace Ruben Amorim, while Saudi giants Al Nassr are preparing for life after Cristiano Ronaldo with an ambitious pursuit of Bernardo Silva. Meanwhile, top clubs across Europe are bracing for high-stakes transfer battles as the January window approaches.
United’s Managerial Options Expand in Unexpected Directions
With uncertainty surrounding Ruben Amorim’s future at Old Trafford, Manchester United are already lining up potential replacements. One of the most unexpected names to emerge is former Chelsea and Brighton manager Graham Potter, who was recently relieved of his duties at West Ham United. According to Fichajes, Potter is among the top candidates United are considering as they prepare for a potential coaching change.
The Red Devils are also exploring several other options, including England boss Gareth Southgate, Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner, and Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, per talkSPORT. While Amorim’s tenure isn’t officially over, United’s proactive approach suggests change could be on the horizon.
Branthwaite Tops United’s Defensive Wishlist
United are also preparing for defensive reinforcements in the new year. Jarrad Branthwaite of Everton has emerged as the club’s No. 1 target to replace Harry Maguire. As reported by the Daily Star, the Red Devils are ready to table a £65 million ($87 million) bid in January to secure the young England international.
However, they may face stiff competition. Liverpool are also keen on Branthwaite, according to The Mirror, potentially setting up a classic North West transfer tug-of-war.
Silva Tipped to Succeed Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia
With Cristiano Ronaldo expected to depart Al Nassr in 2027, the Saudi club is already looking for its next marquee superstar. One of their top targets is Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva, per talkSPORT.
Silva is also being tracked by Al Ahli and Al Qadsiah, but Al Nassr reportedly want him to become the new face of the Saudi Pro League. They are prepared to offer him a four-year deal, ensuring he remains beyond Ronaldo’s planned exit.
Vinícius Júnior Set for Record-Breaking Saudi Offer
Another Brazilian superstar could be heading to the Middle East, as Al Ahli prepare a jaw-dropping offer for Vinícius Júnior. According to talkSPORT, the Real Madrid winger is being lined up for a contract that would surpass Ronaldo’s current €200 million ($234 million) per year salary.
Fichajes adds that Al Hilal are also in the race, with a total financial package of up to €350 million ($409.2 million)under discussion. If completed, it would make Vinícius the highest-paid player in football history.
European Giants Battle for Top Talent
The January window could see major moves across Europe:
- AC Milan are considering a renewed bid for Joe Gomez, hoping to lure the Liverpool defender to Serie A (Calciomercato).
- Chelsea are attempting to hijack Real Madrid’s pursuit of Como playmaker Nico Páz, who is also admired by Tottenham Hotspur, per CaughtOffside. The fee is expected to top €80 million ($93.5 million).
- Real Madrid are also eyeing a second Chelsea star: midfielder Moisés Caicedo, reports TBR Football.
- Kepa Arrizabalaga may be heading back to Spain if Como manager Cesc Fàbregas has his way (TEAMtalk).
- Levante’s rising star Etta Eyong is attracting interest from Barcelona, Manchester United, Tottenham, and Chelsea (Fichajes).
- Erling Haaland won’t come cheap for Barcelona, with Manchester City demanding €250 million ($292.3 million) for their prolific striker (El Nacional).
- Barca’s alternative, Karim Adeyemi, is also expensive, with Borussia Dortmund setting a price tag of €80 million, per Fichajes.
- Ferran Torres is being monitored by Manchester United, Newcastle, and Juventus (El Nacional).
