Real Madrid recently contemplated adding Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah to their squad following an injury to Kylian Mbappé. Salah’s agent reportedly approached the Spanish club with a potential move for January. However, Real Madrid hesitates due to Salah’s substantial wage demands, which complicate the negotiation process.
In parallel, Liverpool is preparing a significant offer of €90 million (£78.5 million) for their own winger Rodrygo. Real Madrid remains uncertain about permitting Rodrygo to transfer mid-season despite the lucrative bid, indicating their intent to retain key attacking talent through the January window.
The Semenyo Saga at Manchester United
Manchester United nearly finalized a transfer for Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo during the summer. The deal stalled after Semenyo learned his salary offer was markedly lower than those extended to players like Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha. Disappointed by the financial terms, the 25-year-old pulled out from United’s offer.
Following this, Semenyo renewed his contract at Bournemouth, including a release clause. Now, he appears poised to join Manchester City, highlighting a costly missed opportunity for United in addressing their wing options. This case exposes flaws in Man Utd’s contract negotiation strategy, which may have contributed to losing a promising target.
Other Manchester United Transfer Developments
Man United’s plans to offload midfield prospect Kobbie Mainoo have hit a snag. The club insists on permanent transfer bids or loan deals with mandatory purchase options, blocking other exit routes. This stance limits Mainoo’s chances of securing first-team minutes elsewhere this January.
Additionally, United have renewed interest in Atalanta midfielder Ederson. Reports suggest his asking price may have dropped below €40 million (£34.9 million), making him a realistic transfer target. United could soon formalize an offer if terms align with their budget and squad needs.
Real Madrid’s Defensive and Wing Moves
Real Madrid is also targeting Tottenham right-back Pedro Porro to increase competition for Trent Alexander-Arnold. Madrid sees Porro as a viable alternative on the right flank, aiming to bolster squad depth. Meanwhile, Barcelona currently prioritizes central defense over right-back reinforcements, eyeing Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Ryerson as a backup plan to Jules Koundé.
In addition, Real Madrid recently expressed dissatisfaction with Dean Huijsen, acquired from Bournemouth in summer. The club plans to closely monitor Huijsen’s performance before deciding on his long-term future. This reflects Madrid’s high standards and strategic caution in nurturing young defenders.
Summary of Notable Transfer Interests
- Liverpool aims to sign Rodrygo for €90 million; Real Madrid undecided on a January sale.
- Mohamed Salah’s high wages complicate Real Madrid’s January move plans.
- Antoine Semenyo rejected Man Utd’s lower salary offer; now close to joining Manchester City.
- Man Utd blocks Kobbie Mainoo’s exit without permanent or compulsory loan terms.
- Interest in Atalanta’s Ederson grows amid potential price drop under €40 million.
- Real Madrid considers Pedro Porro for right-back competition.
- Barcelona prefers a central defender over right-back transfers, monitoring Julian Ryerson.
- Dean Huijsen under scrutiny after mixed initial performances at Real Madrid.
These unfolding narratives reveal the strategic complexities clubs face in the January transfer window. Wage demands, contract terms, and squad priorities are decisive factors shaping moves across Europe’s top leagues. Real Madrid’s pursuit of attacking and defensive upgrades, coupled with Man United’s deal frustrations, highlight the ever-shifting dynamics in elite football transfers.
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