Let’s see some of the transfer news around the football world.
Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez pursuit is on the verge of collapse
According to reports, Enzo Fernandez is unlikely to join Chelsea this month after negotiations with Benfica over a transfer broke down after the Blues’ last bid.
Chelsea persuaded Fernandez to move to Stamford Bridge during the winter transfer window, and the teams have recently debated a transfer fee.
According to Record, Benfica would not sell Fernandez to Chelsea at their current offer, which is reportedly very near to the release clause.
Additionally, according to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea never formally offered €120 million or €127 million. They made Benfica only offer €85 million.
After weeks of talks, Benfica has given up trying to reach an agreement with Chelsea to allow the World Cup champion to move to England.
Given Chelsea’s unwillingness to activate the release clause or even come close to doing so, Fernandez is currently anticipated to remain at Benfica.
Enzo Fernández deal. As things stand, Chelsea & Benfica have not scheduled new meeting after talks collapsed ??? #CFC
Rui Costa always said: €120m [clause] or no way. Chelsea verbally discussed that with Benfica then official bid was €85m. No deal.
? https://t.co/a58uN3CYyC pic.twitter.com/5NuEZDoECZ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 5, 2023
Shakhtar hand Arsenal Mudryk transfer ultimatum amid Chelsea interest
If Arsenal wants to sign the 21-year-old Shakhtar Donetsk winger this month, they will need to increase their offer significantly.
On Monday, the Gunners submitted a second offer for Mudryk after their initial offer of approximately £55 million (€62.5 million) was turned down.
However, Shakhtar has now also stated that Arsenal’s most recent offer, which is estimated to be worth roughly £62 million (€70.5 million), was once again low, with the Ukrainian team standing by their £88 million (€100 million) valuation.
However, according to GOAL, Shakhtar would be prepared to stop the current negotiations this month if their valuation still needs to be met shortly and would postpone further discussions until the summer.
Chelsea, who have entered the race to sign Mudryk, want to derail Arsenal’s intentions.
According to Ben Jacob, multiple sources predict Mudryk is more likely to end up at Arsenal. Only if Arsenal withdraws will Chelsea have a chance. Chelsea still needs to make an offer (even a verbal one) for Mudryk.
At Stamford Bridge, Todd Boehly will have a more in-depth conversation about the possibilities with top Shakhtar executives. Chelsea knows that Mudryk is still pushing for Arsenal and that a successful hijack won’t be cheap or at value.
Chelsea’s interest in Mykhaylo Mudryk doesn’t worry Arsenal. #AFC remain optimistic. Shakhtar still want more money upfront and an overall package closer to €80m. #AFC second bid was under €70m. pic.twitter.com/CiJuBAqozX
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) January 4, 2023
Man United begins loan negotiations for Joao Felix
Chelsea and Arsenal are vying for the services of Atletico Madrid attacker Joao Felix, but it appears that Manchester United is the first team to take definitive action.
Felix is eager to leave Atletico Madrid after struggling to get going under Diego Simeone. CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin acknowledged as much.
However, the Red Devils have started negotiating terms after Relevo stated that they would be willing to pay €4 million for a loan agreement that would last through the season’s conclusion. Around €12–13 million is Atletico’s asking price for just six months of his services.
Although the two clubs are far off in terms of the numbers, it does demonstrate a desire on United’s part to facilitate a transaction that neither Chelsea nor Arsenal has yet demonstrated.
According to the Telegraph, United have started talks with Crystal Palace’s Jack Butland over a contract that would see the 29-year-old join the Red Devils till the end of the season as they look to fill the position of the second goalkeeper.
