Football rumours from the media
A pair of big name players in Spain could be on the move to England.
What the papers say
Manchester City remain hopeful of signing Lionel Messi, according to the Daily Telegraph. City were linked with the Barcelona superstar when he wanted to leave the club last summer before being blocked by Barca’s transfer fee demands. However, Messi is free to go at the end of the current season, and while he has expressed a preference for playing in the US, City may be able to lure him with a three-year deal in the Premier League, followed by two with their New York MLS side. Rumours persist, however, of Messi’s interest in Paris St-Germain.
Arsenal will make Spain forward Isco their top target in the January transfer window, Spain’s AS reports. Everton are also interested in the 28-year-old Real Madrid man, but Arsenal’s Spanish boss Mikel Arteta is reportedly eager to win the race and sign Isco on a six-month loan deal. They will still face stiff competition from Sevilla, however.
Tottenham are keen to sign Austria midfielder Marcel Sabitzer in January, the Evening Standard reports. The 26-year-old’s club RB Leipzig has reportedly said Spurs boss Jose Mourinho has made his interest known, although the move could hinge on whether or not Dele Alli stays put at Tottenham.
Social media round-up
Players to watch
Marcos Alonso: Chelsea’s 30-year-old full-back is set to return to Spain to join Atletico Madrid on loan, the Independent reports.
Jack Byrne: The 24-year-old Shamrock Rovers and Republic of Ireland midfielder has been linked to Stoke, Preston and Nottingham Forest, but is said to be keen on a move to Cyprus, Stoke’s Sentinel reports.
