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Former Tottenham scout Bryan King has revealed the “only reason” Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford would head to north London this summer – and it’s not for the football.

Spurs have joined some big clubs in the chase for Rashford of late. While Barcelona appear to have dropped back after signing Anthony Gordon, TEAMtalk is aware Bayern Munich want the United winger.

The move to Barca being taken off the table has thrown a spanner into the works, but the Red Devils are adamant about selling and have set a £40million release clause – only Liverpool and Manchester City are excluded.

Tottenham could therefore land Rashford if they were willing to pay £40million, but a recent report suggested they want to make an offer below that.

The money they could offer might be the only way they get to the United forward, though, per their former scout King.

He told Tottenham News: “I think he would be a better signing than what they’ve got.

“If he goes back to Barcelona he gets Champions League and the same with Manchester United. If he wants to get out of Man Utd, I’m surprised Barcelona haven’t signed him permanently.

“The only reason he would go to Tottenham at this stage is for the money.”

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Rashford still wants Barca

Prior to his move to Barcelona, Rashford was eager to head to the Spanish giants, and during his loan there, he suggested if it was up to him, he’d remain at the club.

They had a £26million option to buy him, but instead opted for the £70million swoop on Gordon, and with both players operating from the left wing, the chance of Rashford being signed feels slim.

But should the United man get his way, then he will be heading back to the Nou Camp.

Indeed, TEAMtalk is aware that Rashford’s goals haven’t changed – he wants to be in the Barca squad next season.

Even while sources have told us there have been positive talks with Bayern, the Englishman remains enamoured by the prospect of heading back to Spain.

For Tottenham, who don’t want to pay £40million and can’t offer Champions League football, there does indeed seem to be a roadblock.

But it is also far from certain that Rashford heads to Barca this summer, so who leads the chase is currently not clear.

United are ready to sell and they don’t care much who it’s to, so anybody coming in to pay the release clause is in a good spot, but whether Rashford says yes amid his Barca desires remains to be seen.

Tottenham Hotspur have made what sources describe as ‘significant progress’ in their pursuit of West Ham United star Mateus Fernandes, and while Manchester United retain a belief their background work on the player will still pay dividends, they will have to get their skates on with the north London side now preparing to launch a formal bid for the Portugal international, TEAMtalk understands.

Sources have confirmed that discussions with both Fernandes‘ camp and West Ham have accelerated over the past few days, leaving Spurs increasingly confident that they can win the race for one of the Premier League’s most sought-after midfielders.

As a result, we can reveal that Tottenham are now readying an offer worth around £75million (€87m, $99m), a figure that would move them very close to West Ham’s initial £80million valuation of the 21-year-old.

The developments represent a major statement of intent from Spurs, who are determined to reshape their midfield options this summer as Roberto De Zerbi continues work on rebuilding his squad ahead of the new campaign.

However, Tottenham know they face serious competition.

As TEAMtalk revealed on Tuesday, Manchester United have also made substantial progress in their own pursuit of Fernandes and remain confident that they too can secure a deal.

United‘s interest is being driven in large part by sporting director Jason Wilcox, who has longstanding ties to the player dating back to his time at Southampton.

Wilcox played a pivotal role in bringing Fernandes to English football during his spell on the south coast and has maintained close relationships with key figures around the player ever since.

Those connections have helped United establish a strong position in the race and, until recently, many within the game believed the Red Devils were firmly in pole position.

But Spurs are now making a genuine push and with sources revealing all on developments to bring the once-capped Portugal star to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium…

Tottenham talks for Mateus Fernandes have ‘gone well’ – but Man Utd still lurk

Sources close to the negotiations have told TEAMtalk that talks between Spurs and Fernandes’ representatives have gone extremely well, with the North London club presenting a clear vision for the player’s role under De Zerbi.

Indeed, those involved in the discussions believe Tottenham now have “a confidence” that they can land the Portuguese star despite the fierce competition.

Spurs are actively searching for creativity and quality in midfield, and Fernandes has emerged as one of their priority targets.

The club are expected to add multiple midfielders this summer,and TEAMtalk understands they could ultimately bring in as many as three new faces in the middle of the park.

Interest remains in several other options, however.

Tottenham have been alerted to Nico Paz’s uncertain situation at Real Madrid, while Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali, Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton and Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney have all been discussed internally in recent months.

However, Fernandes is rapidly becoming one of the most realistic and attainable elite targets available to De Zerbi.

West Ham remain reluctant sellers and would prefer to retain one of their most valuable assets as they prepare for life under Nuno Espirito Santo.

But with financial realities shaping their summer plans and Fernandes viewed as the player most capable of generating a major transfer fee, the situation remains open.

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West Ham’s transfer stance emerges

TEAMtalk understands the Hammers are prepared to listen to offers that come close to their valuation and Tottenham’s impending bid is expected to test their resolve.

Manchester United are not going away, however.

Wilcox continues to work behind the scenes, and sources insist Old Trafford officials remain optimistic that their groundwork will ultimately pay off.

What is clear is that the race for Fernandes is now entering a crucial phase.

Tottenham have moved decisively in recent days, a substantial offer is being prepared, and belief is growing in North London that they can beat United to one of the most coveted young midfielders in European football.

Meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano has revealed what West Ham have ‘communicated’ to Fernandes amid his talks with Manchester United.

Fabrizio Romano has revealed what West Ham United have told Mateus Fernandes about his future, as Manchester United continue to work hard to bring the midfielder to Old Trafford and win his signature ahead of Tottenham Hotspur and Real Madrid.

On May 14, TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent, Fraser Fletcher, reported that Man Utd had got in touch with the agents of Fernandes.

Sources told us at the time that Fernandes is ‘extremely keen’ on a move to Man Utd.

Man Utd will play in the Champions League next season under manager Michael Carrick and are aiming to make major signings in the summer transfer window.

Ederson Silva already has a deal in place to join Man Utd from Atalanta, with the Red Devils’ co-owners INEOS also looking for another midfielder to follow him to Old Trafford.

Fernandes has emerged as Man Utd’s top target, with Tottenham Hotspur also keen on the Portugal international midfielder, who is the subject of interest from Real Madrid, too.

Fraser Fletcher has reported that Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi is personally keen on a deal for Fernandes.

Sources have also told us that Man Utd are planning to make a bid for Fernandes imminently.

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has now brought West Ham’s perspective on a potential sale of Fernandes.

The Italian journalist has claimed that West Ham do not mind which club Fernandes decides to go to, as long as they get £85million for him.

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‘West Ham will sell Mateus Fernandes’ to the highest bidder

Romano said on his YouTube channel: “Let me be clear.

“West Ham will sell Mateus Fernandes to the club offering the best money.

“So, West Ham don’t care if it’s called Tottenham, Man Utd, Real Madrid or whatever.

“Manchester United have been in talks with the agent of the player for a long time, and Man Utd also had direct contact with West Ham.

“So, Man Utd are working hard on this deal for Mateus Fernandes, and that remains my information.

“Man Utd are there.

“Tottenham are also there because Tottenham are pushing in a separate story compared to Sandro Tonali.

“Sandro Tonali is still there.

“So, Tottenham are working on it, and Manchester United are working on it.

“Real Madrid, the name was indicated by Jose Mourinho, but at the time, is still not advancing.

“But West Ham communicated to those close to the player, ‘Bring us the proposals. We start at £85million. That’s the starting price’.

“West Ham obviously hope to get more than this, with so many clubs involved.

“And, so the idea at West Ham is to get the best transfer fee possible for Mateus Fernandes.

“This is going to be the way to sign the player.

“Then obviously, the player can have preferences.”

Roberto De Zerbi is being tipped to raid his old Brighton once again, as Tottenham Hotspur continue their incredibly busy summer transfer window to date.

Having already poached Jan Paul van Hecke from the south coast outfit, to go alongside the free agent additions of Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi, it looks like De Zerbi is not done when it comes to being reunited with another of his old players.

Tottenham paid £52million to snap up Netherlands star Van Hecke after having two previous bids knocked back, with the former Brighton man poised to replace wantaway Cristian Romero in De Zerbi’s starting XI.

And, having also been linked with Seagulls duo Bart Verbruggen and Carlos Baleba, The Athletic claims it’s another Brighton star who could be bound for north London instead.

They state that experienced goalkeeper Jason Steele is on a list of candidates to potentially become the No.2 goalkeeper at Tottenham.

The 35-year-old is viewed as a good option, having previously worked with De Zerbi at Brighton.

Indeed, Steele played 43 games under the Italian boss across two seasons – the most of any goalkeeper during his time there, though De Zerbi did sign Verbruggen, who has since become the undisputed No.1.

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Kinsky’s job to lose at Tottenham

As for who will be De Zerbi’s first choice next season, the Italian has already been quoted as confirming it’s Antonin Kinsky’s job to lose after his superb end to the season.

That means Guglielmo Vicario will move on, with Inter Milan and Juventus both keen on signing the Italy stopper this summer.

As for other options, PSG star Lucas Chevalier has emerged as a potential rival for Kinsky, while’s there’s also talk of Leeds stopper Karl Darlow heading to north London as experienced back-up to the talented Czech keeper.

Tottenham Hotspur look set to blow their chance of signing Marcus Rashford this summer due to their stance over Manchester United’s price tag, while it’s also been revealed where the forward actually sees his future.

Roberto De Zerbi is already re-shaping his squad in north London, adding much more experience to a team that has endured back-to-back 17th-placed finishes in the Premier League.

Tottenham have so far brought in Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi on free transfers, while Jan Paul van Hecke has also arrived from Brighton in a big-money deal.

While their hunt now appears to have switched to fixing a poorly balanced midfield, with Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali, West Ham star Mateus Fernandes and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton all on their radr.

Indeed, it’s claimed that Spurs are looking to close a record-breaking £90million deal for Tonali ‘very quickly’, although Manchester United are expected to make a bid for Fernandes imminently.

The north London club are not just tracking midfielders, though, with the need for a new left winger becoming even more glaring during the 2025/26 campaign.

Opting to sell an aging Son Heung-min proved to be a major stake as numerous options, including the likes of Mathys Tel, Wilson Odobert, Xavi Simons and striker Richarlison, all failed to convince.

While Manchester City star Savinho recently dropped a major hint that he could be Spurs-bound, but then very quickly deleted it, there are other options available.

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Tottenham not willing to pay Rashford asking price

One of which is Man Utd forward Rashford, who has long been linked with a move to either the white or red half of north London.

Rashford wowed while on loan at Barcelona this past season, scoring 14 goals and notching just as many assists in 49 games in all competitions for the Catalan outfit.

But instead of making Rashford’s loan move permanent, Barcelona opted to sign Anthony Gordon in a shock €80m (£69.3m) deal from Newcastle United last month.

Rashford, who had a €30m (£25.8m) purchase option in his loan agreement with Barcelona, now faces the prospect of returning to Old Trafford after his stint with England at the World Cup draws to a close.

And, while inews reports how Tottenham want Rashford to continue their theme of signing battle-hardened Premier League players, it’s also stated how the club are not prepared to match Rashford’s £40m release clause and are looking to negotiate a lower fee with United for the 28-year-old instead.

It’s a classic Spurs tactic from the Daniel Levy era, but baulking at £40m for a player in his prime who had 28 G/A in LaLiga this past season in utter lunacy, especially given how desperate De Zerbi is for more output from his forward line.

As for the player himself, Rashford continues to hold out for another move away from England, in the hope that Barca will renew their interest or Bayern Munich step on the gas for a deal.

Barcelona have actually attempted to re-sign Rashford on a second loan deal but their proposal was rejected by United, who want a permanent sale.

As for Tottenham’s interest, De Zerbi is known to be a huge admirer of Rashford, who came off the bench in England’s World Cup opener against Croatia and netted the fourth goal in an impressive 4-2 win.

Aston Villa have reportedly lodged a surprise ‘offer’ for former Tottenham Hotspur star Emerson Royal as Unai Emery’s summer transfer plans begin to take shape.

The Villans are in for a busy transfer window after qualifying for the Champions League, and Emery appears keen to bring in more competition at right-back.

Matty Cash is currently Villa’s main man in the position, while Anders Garcia has played a back-up role, though the latter has been linked with moves away from the club.

Now, according to a shock report from ESPN Brazil, as cited by Sport Witness, Villa have submitted a €9million (£7.8m / $10.2m) offer to Flamengo for former Tottenham star Emerson.

Interestingly, the 27-year-old was signed by Flamengo from AC Milan in 2025 for exactly the same €9million fee.

Flamengo are yet to make a decision, but they are big fans of Emerson, so luring him from the Brazilian club might not be straightforward for the Villans.

Emerson made 101 appearances for Spurs during his time with the London club, but struggled to find consistency in his performances.

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Villa have other priorities amid Emerson ‘offer’ rumours

Villa appear are reportedly keen to give Emerson a second chance in the Premier League and his addition would give Emery some valuable depth at right-back as they aim to compete both domestically and in Europe.

The move could be deemed to make sense if Garcia leaves Villa as he would need replacing.

But given his performances in the Premier League, overall, left a lot to be desired, it would be a surprise to see Villa bring him in.

It’s worth noting that no other outlets have backed up ESPN Brazil’s claims of a bid for Emerson, so they must be taken with a pinch of salt, for now.

Instead, Villa seem to be mainly focused on attacking additions at the moment.

TEAMtalk revealed earlier today that they are in the race to sign Fulham winger Harry Wilson on a free transfer, while they’re also favourites to land West Ham skipper Jarrod Bowen.

But the biggest story of the summer for Villa could actually be a painful exit.

Superstar playmaker Morgan Rogers continues to attract significant interest from Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City.

The England international won’t force an exit but is understood to be tempted by the opportunity to join a side that consistently challenges for trophies.

Crucially, none of Arsenal, Chelsea or Man City have been put off by Villa’s demands, which are north of the club-record £100million they sold Jack Grealish to the Cityzens for in 2021.

Tottenham Hotspur are planning to make a new and improved offer for Sandro Tonali this week, according to two journalists, but a couple of pundits have warned the Newcastle United midfielder against making a move to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

On June 16, TEAMtalk’s transfer insider, Graeme Bailey, reported Tottenham’s interest in a 2026 summer deal for Tonali.

Sources have told us that Tonali’s agents have informed Newcastle that he wants to leave, with a return to Italy his preferred idea.

Newcastle, though, are not going to sell the Italy international on the cheap, with the Magpies looking for at least £100million for him.

The Premier League club rate Tonali highly, with Newcastle CEO David Hopkinson describing him as “a superstar player” on talkSPORT on February 4, 2026.

On June 20, Sky Sports reported that Tottenham have made their first offer for Tonali.

Spurs were willing to pay £80m for the Italian star, but Newcastle turned it down.

Tottenham, though, remain keen on adding Tonali to manager Roberto De Zerbi’s side and are planning to make a second and improved deal.

SportMediaSet journalist Orazio Accomando has reported that Tottenham plan to make a new offer by midweek, adding that Tonali is ready to move to the north London club.

Accomando posted on X at 8:02am on June 21: “By midweek, Tottenham will try to improve their offer to Newcastle for Sandro Tonali.

“The midfielder has already said yes to Spurs, who will try to close the deal quickly to avoid bidding wars.

“It can be closed at around 90M Pounds, about 105M Euros.”

Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla noted on X at 10am on June 22: “#Tonali: the next #Tottenham bid will touch and perhaps exceed 100 million (euros)”

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Sandro Tonali warned against Tottenham move

Last week, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano reported that Tonali is ready to leave Newcastle for Tottenham.

Romano said on his YouTube channel: “Tottenham today have entered the race very strong, very concrete, very determined to sign Sandro Tonali.

“And if Tottenham got this strong, my understanding is that it’s because Sandro Tonali is – important point of this video, important point of this information – keen on a move to Tottenham.

“Sandro Tonali is open to joining Tottenham.

“Sandro Tonali is ready to join Spurs, even without European football, even after a terrible season for Tottenham Hotspur.

“Tonali is attracted by the project, wants to play for Roberto De Zerbi.

“And so the possibility to say Tonali at Tottenham is really serious, is really concrete.

“Then let’s wait for the negotiation club-to-club.

“The understanding is that it could take around €100million package to sign Sandro Tonali, so around £85million.

“Let’s see, let’s follow the story, but Tottenham are going very strong.

“Arsenal have called for weeks, Manchester City in contact for weeks, but now Tottenham going all in for Sandro Tonali, the wanted player by Roberto De Zerbi to step up the project and to show the ambition of their view.

“So, keep an eye on this one.”

Newcastle legend Alan Shearer, though, does not think that Tonali should join Tottenham.

Shearer said: “Tottenham just avoided relegation.

“I get the attraction of London but going to Spurs who have finished so low over the last two years would be a surprise career move for Tonali in my eyes.

“But I’m not surprised if it’s true that he’s made an indication that he wants to leave Newcastle.

“Again, if he doesn’t want to be there, you put the price you want and if someone wants to pay it. It looks as if it’ll have to be three figures, then you say thank you very much, get the £100 million plus and you move on.

“I know Spurs have a new manager and that may be a pull for him, London, obviously. But in terms of the football club, look where they have finished the last two years.”

Earlier this month, former Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor said on talkSPORT: “Why would Tonali want to go to a top-17 side?

“They are not a top-six side anymore, Spurs.

“They are really not.

“Back-to-back seasons finishing 17th in the league, I just do not get it and I think he is probably saying to his agent, ‘I beg your pardon, who are interested? Pardon? I thought I was going to a big European side playing Champions League football. Do me a favour, I would not go to Spurs’.”

Manchester United are expected to launch an official approach for West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes in the coming days, with the club still viewing themselves as ‘strong favourites’ to secure the Portuguese talent and with an agreement of sorts already in place, TEAMtalk understands.

The 21-year-old has emerged as one of this summer’s most in-demand players after sources confirmed he would be allowed to leave the London Stadium this summer, and with the player seen as the cash cow the Hammers need to milk following relegation from the Premier League.

Fernandes, who has established himself as one of the top young midfielders in world football, is not short of admirers off the back of an excellent personal season, even though his efforts were not enough to keep his side among the elite.

Now, the race for his signature is really starting to heat up – much like the British weather this week – after several weeks of posturing.

However, while Manchester United are at the forefront of the transfer race, they are certainly not alone.

Indeed, sources indicate that personal terms between Spurs and the 21-year-old are in a very positive place, with Tottenham making significant progress in recent talks between themselves and his representatives.

The biggest challenge remains West Ham’s firm asking price, which stands at a minimum of £80 million (€93m, $106m). Spurs are most likely prepared to meet that valuation in a layered and packaged deal, while United’s offer is expected to come in some way below it.

Despite the competition, United retain confidence thanks to their momentum behind the scenes and with two factors giving them genuine belief a deal to bring Fernandes to Old Trafford can be done…

Man Utd hold two advantages in Mateus Fernandes race

Indeed, we understand United have held a quiet confidence all summer that they will win the race for Fernandes and it simply a question of just how much they will be forced to pay.

That’s because there is an understanding at Old Trafford that the player’s long-standing preference is to play for United and to join one of his idols, Bruno Fernandes.

The offer of Champions League football at Old Trafford is also seen as a major sway.

Initial discussions with Fernandes’ representatives, managed by super agent Jorge Mendes, began months ago and have intensified, with the Red Devils working hard on both the club and player sides.

Sources say the player side for United is no issue and talks over personal terms have been smooth.

As a result, an agreement over wages, length of contract and signing-on fee are not expected to be problematic and may already have reached an understanding.

West Ham sources say they are braced for a formal bid from United and fully expect to sell the midfielder this summer following their relegation to the Championship.

The Hammers signed Fernandes from Southampton for a package worth just north of £40 million just last year, but are now open to cashing in on one of their best players to fund a rebuild.

Indeed, a report at the weekend revealed the Hammers want to generate as much as possible from Fernandes’ sale and try to avoid the need to cash in on their other very sellable assets.

To that end, West Ham hope to receive double what they paid Saints for Fernandes and are determined to remain firm on his valuation.

Although West Ham do not want to lose all their key men, it’s clear that stars like Fernandes are not going to be happy playing in England’s second tier.

West Ham, for their part, have already identified a would-be replacement in the form of an impressive Scottish talent, sources can confirm.

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West Ham star is ‘waiting for Man Utd’

Should Fernandes move to United, he will be their second midfield capture of the close season after a £35m deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta was also signed off.

United see the star as a key addition to refresh their midfield under Michael Carrick, while Spurs are equally determined to bolster their squad and are being pushed by manager De Zerbi to land him.

The Spurs board have come under pressure to land top talents as they have promised De Zerbi a squad and summer rebuild that gives him a side capable of challenging for Europe next season.

With the transfer window heating up, an official offer from United is now expected to land imminently.

Whether Spurs’ aggressive pursuit will actually win them the race remains to be seen, but what is clear is that Fernandes is waiting for United to make a move before committing to any other deal.

More Man Utd coverage on TEAMtalk

Carrick greenlights £35m Man Utd bid as Dortmund raid ramps up

Man Utd keen on ‘physical’ Sunderland star, as Tottenham target deal and Black Cats’ stance emerges

Tottenham Hotspur have been alerted to the fact that Nico Paz could unexpectedly become available this summer after a dramatic change in Real Madrid’s thinking, TEAMtalk can reveal.

The Argentine international had appeared destined to return to the Santiago Bernabeu, with Real ready to activate their bargain €10million (£8.6m / $11.4m) buy-back clause and hand the 21-year-old another opportunity to establish himself in the Spanish capital.

However, the return of Jose Mourinho has significantly altered the landscape.

While Mourinho is understood to admire Paz’s talent, sources have informed TEAMtalk that the Portuguese coach does not view him as a natural fit for the system he is building at Real Madrid.

As a result, club officials are now actively discussing alternative plans and one option under consideration would see Real trigger their buy-back clause before immediately selling Paz for a fee in the region of €60million (£51.8m / $68.5m).

Such a move would represent a huge profit for Los Blancos and has alerted a number of clubs across Europe.

Among those paying particularly close attention are Tottenham, who are looking to make at least one statement attacking addition this summer.

As revealed yesterday, Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo has been considered and club-to-club talks have been held, while Manchester City’s Savinho also remains on their radar.

A report on Monday claimed Spurs are also preparing a move to sign Marcus Rashford, though with the Manchester United loanee keen to stay at Barcelona, and Bayern Munich also interested, Roberto De Zerbi’s side will have their work cut out.

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Tottenham get second chance at exciting Nico Paz deal

Tottenham made a serious attempt to sign Paz a year ago, and held extensive discussions over a deal before negotiations stalled.

At the time, Real Madrid made it clear they would only sanction a permanent exit from Como if they retained significant future control through another buy-back mechanism.

That was a condition Tottenham were unwilling to accept and talks ultimately went no further. Now, however, the situation has changed.

TEAMtalk understands Tottenham have been informed of Real’s revised stance and are once again assessing whether a move for Paz is possible.

The North London club remain admirers of the player and believe he possesses the creativity and technical quality that could add a different dimension to Roberto De Zerbi’s squad.

Despite ongoing enquiries for West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, Spurs still have room within their plans for an attacking midfielder of Paz’s profile.

We can also reveal that Arsenal and Chelsea have been alerted to developments.

Both London rivals have been kept informed of the changing situation, although sources indicate it is Tottenham who are currently showing the strongest interest among the Premier League clubs monitoring the player.

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Tottenham face Bundesliga, Serie A competition for winger deal

Competition from abroad is expected to be fierce for Paz, though.

Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig are understood to be weighing up whether to formalise their interest, while Italian champions Inter Milan are also emerging as serious contenders.

Indeed, sources suggest Inter could prove to be one of Tottenham’s biggest obstacles if Paz becomes available on the open market.

The situation remains fluid, because Como have not given up hope of keeping the player.

Cesc Fabregas is eager to retain Paz following his outstanding campaign and the Serie A side would ideally like to negotiate another loan arrangement if Real decide to bring him back to Spain.

However, Real’s current preference is understood to be very different.

Senior figures at the Bernabeu are increasingly attracted by the prospect of banking a substantial profit and reinvesting those funds elsewhere as Mourinho continues to reshape his squad following the arrivals of Bernardo Silva, Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries and Marc Cucurella.

Real and Como are due to hold talks this week in an attempt to establish the next stage of Paz’s future.

Yet TEAMtalk understands those discussions will take place against the backdrop of growing interest from across Europe.

For the player, the developments have come as a disappointment.

Sources close to Paz indicate he had been excited by the prospect of finally receiving a genuine opportunity at Real Madrid and proving himself under the bright lights of the Santiago Bernabeu.

However, he remains extremely happy at Como and would be open to continuing his journey under Fabregas, particularly with Champions League football now on offer. Whether that becomes possible remains to be seen.

Sunderland are facing a growing fight to keep hold of Brian Brobbey after the Dutch forward’s impressive performances at the World Cup intensified interest from within the Premier League and from several European heavyweights, TEAMtalk understands.

Brobbey has enhanced his reputation with a series of eye-catching displays for the Netherlands this summer, but sources insist his performances on the international stage have merely confirmed what a number of clubs already believed following an excellent first season on Wearside.

The former Ajax striker enjoyed a strong campaign under Regis Le Bris, scoring seven goals, but it is his all-round contribution that has attracted admirers from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

As a result, sources can reveal that Juventus, Stuttgart and Atletico Madrid – the latter of whom as a potential replacement for Arsenal and Barcelona target, Julian Alvarez – have all been closely monitoring the 23-year-old’s progress.

However, we can reveal that several Premier League sides are also particularly keen on the Sunderland star and are also weighing up possible summer approaches.

Manchester United, who need a frontman to cover and compete with Benjamin Sesko, are long-time suitors and among those very much keen, though they are not alone with sources insisting Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Aston Villa are all understood to have retained an interest in Brobbey, having followed his development both before and since his move to Wearside for a bargain £21.6m (€25m, $28.5m) last summer.

Indeed, we’re told that scouts have been particularly impressed by the striker’s physical presence, pressing ability and growing maturity in possession, with many believing there is still significant room for improvement in the 24-year-old’s game.

Sources indicate that Sunderland are fully aware of the growing attention surrounding one of their standout performers and have already made a decision at boardroom level over a prospective sale of the 76-goal striker…

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Sunderland have clear stance over future of Brian Brobbey

Despite the developing interest in their No.9, sources are adamant that the Black Cats have no intention of sanctioning a sale and will do all in their power to retain the 14-times capped Netherlands star, who is contracted to the Stadium of Light until 2029.

TEAMtalk understands Sunderland view Brobbey as a key part of their long-term project and remain convinced that his value to the club extends far beyond his goalscoring return.

Indeed, club officials are so pleased with his progress that discussions over a new long-term contract have already been considered internally.

The Wearside club see Brobbey as a player capable of helping drive the next phase of their development and are keen to reward his performances accordingly.

While interest continues to build, Sunderland’s stance remains firm.

Sources insist there is no asking price attached to the Dutchman at this stage and the club are not entertaining the prospect of losing him this summer.

That position could yet be tested if one of Europe’s elite decides to make a formal move, but for now Sunderland are standing their ground.

Brobbey’s performances at the World Cup have undoubtedly elevated his profile further, and with clubs across England, Germany, Italy and Spain keeping a close watch, the coming weeks could prove pivotal.

While Manchester United may have a battle to secure Brobbey, the Red Devils continue to evaluate options who can strengthen their frontline.

One name who has also now been linked is another top Premier League striker, who managed to find the net on 25 occasions this season.

However, United have no plans to offload Sesko, according to sources, amid claims a European giant was preparing a hefty offer for the Slovenian’s services.