Al-Ahli closing in on signing Napoli’s talisman, Victor Osimhen.
Napoli’s striker, Victor Osimhen is edging closer to a move to Saudi Arabia’s Pro League despite interest from many European clubs. According to the acclaimed journalist, Fabrizio Romano, Napoli is negotiating a package exceeding €65 million (£55m/$73m) with Al-Ahli. However, the deal is not yet finalized as Osimhen is seeking significant salary terms and a release clause in his contract. The Nigerian forward, who has missed Napoli’s first two Serie A matches, wants assurances before committing to Al-Ahli. Although he is considering the Saudi option, he still prefers a European move. If his terms are not met, the transfer could fall through.
🚨🇸🇦 More on Victor Osimhen story.
The agreement between Napoli and Al Ahli for package in excess of €65m is almost done, pending small details.
But NO agreement with Osimhen so far as Nigerian striker wants an important salary + KEY DETAIL: release clause to be included. pic.twitter.com/Z9vnSTdIEE
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 25, 2024
Out-of-favour Chelsea goalkeeper being monitored by Bournemouth.
AFC Bournemouth are considering a Loan move for Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga for the 2024/25 season, according to The Athletic. The 29-year-old goalkeeper, who is not in Chelsea’s immediate plans and is currently training with the “loan group” under Carlo Cudicini, has high wages—around £200,000-per-week—which complicate negotiations. Kepa, the world’s most expensive goalkeeper after his £72m transfer from Athletic Bilbao in 2018, was instrumental in Chelsea’s Europa League win that season but has struggled with form since. After a loan spell at Real Madrid last season, where he was eventually benched, Chelsea is looking for Kepa to extend his contract by at least a year with a reduced salary. This extension would help facilitate his loan move and potentially allow Chelsea to sell him later.
🚨🇪🇸 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 | Bournemouth working to sign Kepa (29) on loan from Chelsea, reports @David_Ornstein! 🍒 pic.twitter.com/GHWyKxIBax
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) August 23, 2024
Endrick scores on debut as Real Madrid secured 3-0 win against Valladolid.
Despite lackluster performances from Mbappé and Vinicius Jr., Federico Valverde, Brahim Diaz, and debutant Endrick led Real Madrid to a crucial 3-0 victory over Real Valladolid on Sunday. Madrid struggled in the first half, missing the injured Jude Bellingham in midfield, and managed only one shot on target. Mbappé showed glimpses of brilliance, including a stunning volley saved by the goalkeeper. However, the team improved significantly after halftime. Valverde broke the deadlock with a deflected free-kick, easing the tension at Santiago Bernabéu. Although Mbappé missed a few chances and Vinicius Jr. was denied a tap-in, Brahim Diaz sealed the win with a superb goal in the 88th minute. Endrick, in his debut, scored a remarkable third in stoppage time, securing Madrid’s first win of the season.
FT: Real Madrid 3-0 Real Valladolid.
3 POINTS FOR REAL MADRID! 🌟 pic.twitter.com/UwY3hyBVEk
— 𝐀𝐅𝐂 𝐀𝐉𝐀𝐗 💎 (@TheEuropeanLad) August 25, 2024
Scott McTominay close to Napoli move after agreeing deal with the club.
Napoli and Manchester United have agreed in principle on a €30 million deal for midfielder Scott McTominay, including add-ons and a sell-on clause. McTominay’s exit would allow United to pursue another midfielder, with Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte a key target. The Premier League’s profitability and Sustainability rules also play a role. Despite interest from Fulham and Everton, McTominay is reportedly hesitant to join another Premier League club after being with United since age six. Negotiations on his payoff, similar to those for Wan-Bissaka, are ongoing. McTominay, who scored seven Premier League goals and ten in total last season, will provide United with more flexibility in their pursuit of Ugarte, who PSG values at £51 million. United aims to finalize a deal before Friday’s transfer deadline.
🔵🏴 Scott McTominay has already accepted Napoli and their project.
Details to be discussed about his payoff, similar to Wan-Bissaka. This is the main part to fix + personal terms.
Club to club agreement done with Man United for €30m fee (add-ons included) plus sell-on clause. pic.twitter.com/x9b4ahrUCo
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 25, 2024
Madueke scores a hat trick as Chelsea annihilates Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Chelsea secured a dominant 6-2 victory over a defensively poor Wolves, marking Enzo Maresca’s first top-flight win as a manager. The first half was tightly contested, with Nicolas Jackson’s early goal being equalized by Matheus Cunha, and Cole Palmer and Jorgen Strand Larsen trading goals before the break. However, Chelsea’s attacking prowess took center stage after halftime. Noni Madueke, who had previously expressed his dissatisfaction with the city on Instagram, netted a hat-trick, with all goals assisted by Palmer. Joao Felix, making his second debut, scored the final goal to seal the win. This emphatic performance gives Maresca’s reign a strong start and ignites significant discussion.
That'll do. #CFC | #WOLCHE pic.twitter.com/Ac2zcXdRzx
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 25, 2024