Manchester United's Spanish Scouting Mission Puts Oyarzabal in Spotlight
Transfer speculation is heating up as Manchester United are believed to have set their sights on Mikel Oyarzabal, the prolific forward from Real Sociedad. Reports indicate that United's scouts were present in Spain over the weekend to observe La Real's victory over Barcelona, with Oyarzabal reportedly a key figure on their radar. The 28-year-old Spanish international, who boasts a release clause of €75 million (approximately £65 million), is seen as a potential summer target rather than an immediate acquisition, given the financial considerations involved.
Midfield and Managerial Moves Add to Old Trafford Intrigue
In addition to their interest in Oyarzabal, Manchester United are also linked with a move for Rúben Neves, the midfielder currently with Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. However, they may face stiff competition from Real Madrid for his signature, as Neves enters the final six months of his contract and is keen on a return to European football. Meanwhile, the search for a permanent manager at Old Trafford has thrown up several names, including:
- Frank Lampard, currently with Coventry City in the Championship
- José Bordalás of Getafe
- Iñigo Pérez, manager of Rayo Vallecano
Everton and Crystal Palace Navigate Transfer Turbulence
Elsewhere in the Premier League, Everton are preparing a £10 million offer for Sevilla's full-back Juanlo Sánchez, according to local reports, with potential add-ons included in the deal. The Toffees are also reportedly interested in Sunderland's Wilson Isidor, as they seek to bolster their squad. At Crystal Palace, the ongoing speculation around striker Jean-Philippe Mateta continues, with Juventus and Aston Villa showing strong interest. Juventus have tabled an offer of €30 million (£26 million), structured as a loan with an obligation to buy, but Villa could outbid them, possibly including Evann Guessand in a swap deal.
Goalkeeper and Striker Shuffles Across Europe
Aston Villa's Emiliano Martínez is another player attracting attention, with Inter Milan emerging as the frontrunners to sign the 33-year-old Argentine goalkeeper at the season's end. In other rumours, Republic of Ireland striker Troy Parrott is now being linked with Fulham, Wolfsburg, and Real Betis, adding to the competitive landscape. For Sheffield Wednesday, financial pressures may lead to the sale of 17-year-old wing-back Yisa Alao to Chelsea for a six-figure fee, with Manchester United and Liverpool also having shown interest previously.
Celtic Set to Secure Striker on Loan Deal
Finally, Celtic are poised to address their fanbase's desire for new signings with the reported arrival of Tomas Cvancara from Borussia Mönchengladbach. The tall striker is expected to join on an initial loan, with the Hoops holding an option to make the move permanent in the summer, providing a potential boost to their attacking options.
