Ademola Lookman reaches verbal agreement with Paris Saint-Germain.
Super Eagles star, Ademola Lookman has attracted attention from top European clubs following his stellar 2023/24 season with Atalanta. Lookman was pivotal in La Dea’s Europa League victory, scoring a hat trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen. Reports indicate he has agreed on personal terms with Paris Saint-Germain and is keen to join the 12-time Ligue 1 champions. However, the transfer is not yet complete as PSG and Atalanta are negotiating the fee. PSG’s offer is around €30 million, but Atalanta is seeking closer to €50 million given Lookman’s impressive performances. Meanwhile, Arsenal is monitoring the situation and might consider a late bid for the 26-year-old winger. Despite personal terms being settled, Lookman’s move to PSG remains uncertain.
🚨🚨| BREAKING: Ademola Lookman has reached a VERBAL agreement with Paris Saint-Germain! 🔴🔵✅
Arsenal is closely monitoring the situation in case the deal falls through. 👀
[@Plettigoal] pic.twitter.com/0mYHgOEnh1
— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) August 22, 2024
Sergi Roberto set to join Cesc Fabregas-led Como as a free agent.
Former Barcelona midfielder, Sergi Roberto has arrived in Italy to finalize his free transfer to Como, where he will reunite with former Barcelona teammate Cesc Fabregas, now Como’s head coach. The 32-year-old midfielder, who left Barcelona after 18 years and 373 appearances, has agreed to a two-year deal with the Serie A side. Although Ajax and Fiorentina showed interest, Roberto was persuaded by Fabregas, a key factor in his decision. Como is also bolstering its squad with several Spanish players, including Pepe Reina, Alberto Moreno, and Real Madrid’s Nico Paz. Additionally, former Manchester United and Real Madrid defender Raphaël Varane, Alberto Dossena, and Andrea Belotti are among the over ten new signings this summer at Como.
Confirmed, Sergi Roberto has reached an agreement with Italian club Como led by Cesc Fabregas. He will join as a free agent.
— @sport pic.twitter.com/rteCt7YxDJ
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) August 22, 2024
Paulo Dybala to remain at AS Roma after rejecting a big-money Saudi move.
Argentina star, Paulo Dybala announced on Thursday that he will remain with AS Roma, ending speculation about a potential move to Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah. Reports reveal Dybala turned down a lucrative offer of €75 million ($83M) over three years. He confirmed his decision with an Instagram post saying, “Thank you Rome…See you on Sunday.” This announcement follows a period of uncertainty regarding his future, as he trained separately from Roma’s first team on Thursday and was absent from the lineup in their Serie A opener against Cagliari last Sunday. Dybala, who is in the final year of his contract with Roma, has a clause for automatic extension if he plays at least 15 official matches this season. Since joining in 2022, he has been pivotal, scoring 34 goals and providing 18 assists in 78 appearances.
🚨🟡🔴 BREAKING: Paulo Dybala STAYS at AS Roma.
The bid from Al Qadsiah has been REJECTED. pic.twitter.com/H4lnV4gOgt
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 22, 2024
Courtois refuses to return as Belgian coach under coach Tedesco.
Real Madrid’s goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois Has announced he will not return to the Belgian national team due to ongoing issues with coach Domenico Tedesco and a lack of confidence in his leadership. Courtois, who missed much of the previous season with knee injuries, was notably absent from Belgium’s Euro 2024 squad despite his crucial role in Real Madrid’s Champions League victory. The dispute between Courtois and Tedesco began in 2023 when Courtois left the national team camp ahead of a Euro 2024 qualifier, citing a knee issue, contrary to Tedesco’s claims of disrespect. Courtois has stated his decision is final after much reflection, though he recognizes that some fans may be disappointed. The Belgian Football Federation has reportedly accepted his decision.
🚨⚪️ Thibaut Courtois: “I have decided not to return to the Belgian NT under this manager”.
“In this matter, I accept my share of responsibility”.
“However, looking forward, my lack of confidence in him would not contribute to maintaining the necessary atmosphere”. pic.twitter.com/MmPdCibfhl
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 22, 2024
Manchester United beat a host of European clubs to the signing of Sékou Koné.
Premier League giants, Manchester United are on the verge of signing 18-year-old Sékou Koné from Malian club Guidars FC, outmaneuvering interest from several other teams. Koné, a highly regarded defensive midfielder, is expected to join United’s under-21 squad initially as he adapts to life in England. Known for his exceptional performances at last year’s U17 World Cup, where he led in interceptions and defensive duels, Koné has also attracted attention from Liverpool and RB Salzburg. Dubbed the next Yaya Touré, he will be United’s fifth summer acquisition. While fans eagerly anticipate seeing the young talent in action, Koné remains somewhat of an enigma ahead of his move to Manchester. His future with United is highly anticipated, with hopes for his progression into the first team over time.
🚨🔴 More on exclusive news on Sékou Koné to join Manchester United.
Deal 100% agreed and done, documents will be signed after medical next week.
£1m transfer fee plus several add-ons based on performances.
2006 born Mali international talent considered as smart investment. pic.twitter.com/1Op2E6iFRa
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 23, 2024