Let’s see some of the transfer news around the football world.
Chelsea opens talks with Benfica after Enzo Fernandez agrees to join Blues
Following Enzo Fernandez’s acceptance of a transfer to Stamford Bridge, Chelsea and Benfica have begun negotiations for his transfer.
As Lionel Messi led Argentina to a World Cup victory in Qatar earlier this month, the midfielder shone for his nation.
Before his World Cup exploits, Fernandez, 21, was already on the radar of prominent European clubs. Still, his performances have solidified his position as one of the world’s most promising midfielders.
While both Liverpool and Manchester United have expressed interest in Fernandez, Benfica’s stance that he will only be sold if a club uses his £106 million release clause has deterred them.
But Chelsea has persuaded the Argentine to join Stamford Bridge after making casual contact with him.
As a result, they can utilise Fernandez’s permission to negotiate a lower price, and according to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea and Benfica are currently in active transfer negotiations.
Chelsea will push again in the next hours and days to sign Enzo Fernandez. Plan is to get him immediately, not in June. Deal depends on Benfica decision now. ? #CFC
Enzo already accepted Chelsea's contract bid, but he played as he'd never disrespect Benfica.
Up to Rui Costa. pic.twitter.com/eRhrJNlqzt
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 31, 2022
Real Madrid is ready to step up Jude Bellingham’s pursuit in January
According to ESPN, Real Madrid is prepared to spend more than €100 million to acquire Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham and is convinced that negotiations may move quickly in January.
Although they are aware of competition from Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, and, most importantly, Liverpool, the La Liga heavyweights view the 19-year-old England international as a priority signing for the upcoming season.
In November, while Liverpool was pursuing Bellingham, Madrid thought they were still in a strong position to secure the signing of the young player.
Bellingham’s stellar World Cup exploits for England since then have raised his value even further, but the report adds that Madrid is not willing to make a “crazy” bid to sign Bellingham.
Madrid would consider a €100 million price tag reasonable and would like to seal the deal with the help of their cordial connection with Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke.
? Real Madrid are ready to spend over £88.6m to sign 19-year-old Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham, who is also a target for Liverpool.
(Source: ESPN) pic.twitter.com/WoTuUUcvRV
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) December 31, 2022
Wolves ready to leave Raul Jimenez in January
According to a report by Tom Collomosse for the Daily Mail, Raul Jimenez will be allowed to depart Wolves in January.
Matheus Cunha has been acquired by Wolves on loan from Atletico Madrid and will be ready for their upcoming match as soon as the January transfer market opens.
As a result, Jimenez will drop lower down the Wolves’ hierarchy. If they can acquire another forward in January, Jimenez could leave.
According to the report, Jimenez is one of the Wolves’ best earners as they try to rearrange their pay structure and rev up their offence.
A further indication that Jimenez isn’t really in Julen Lopetegui’s plans is that he didn’t replace Diego Costa when he was substituted out at halftime on December 31.
Jimenez has only made five appearances for the struggling Wolves this season since he has missed most of the last six months due to injuries.
