This Sunday’s football gossip column is dominated by transfer rumors and potential moves involving some of Europe’s biggest clubs and players. Key highlights include Bruno Fernandes’ openness to a future Saudi Arabian move, Tottenham’s interest in Morgan Rogers, and Arsenal’s determination to keep Leandro Trossard. Other notable stories include Manchester City and Liverpool battling for Marc Guehi, Bayern Munich’s past interest in Cody Gakpo, and Chelsea’s hefty offer for Andrey Santos. Additionally, Juventus are eyeing Dani Ceballos, and Thiago Alcantara is set to join Barcelona’s coaching staff.
The latest football gossip swirling around the Premier League and beyond suggests that Manchester United's captain, Bruno Fernandes, may be open to a future move to Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly keen on Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, and Arsenal are set to rebuff any interest from Turkey in their winger, Leandro Trossard.
Bruno Fernandes, the 30-year-old Portuguese international and Manchester United midfielder, previously declined three approaches from Saudi clubs owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) this summer. Despite electing to remain at Old Trafford, reports indicate that Fernandes is still open to a move to Saudi Arabia in the future, with dealmakers planning to make another move for him in the summer of 2026. This revelation casts some uncertainty over his long-term commitment to United, especially with the financial incentives that Saudi clubs can offer. The Saudi Pro League's ambition to attract top global talent is no secret, and securing a player of Fernandes' caliber would be a significant coup.
In other transfer news, Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly targeting Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers. Spurs manager Thomas Frank is said to be a keen admirer of the 23-year-old, who is currently on international duty with England. Rogers' potential move to Tottenham could bolster their midfield options and provide added competition for places. His versatility and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively make him an attractive prospect for Spurs, who are looking to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. Aston Villa, however, may be reluctant to let go of a promising young talent like Rogers, especially as they aim to compete on multiple fronts.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are determined to keep hold of their Belgian winger, Leandro Trossard. Despite reported interest from Turkish side Besiktas, the Gunners have no intention of letting the 30-year-old leave the club. Trossard recently signed a new deal at the Emirates Stadium last month, underscoring Arsenal's commitment to the player and his importance to their squad. His ability to play in multiple positions and his knack for scoring crucial goals have made him a valuable asset for the North London club. Arsenal's decision to reject Besiktas' advances demonstrates their resolve to maintain a strong and competitive squad as they aim to challenge for major honors.
Elsewhere in the rumor mill, Manchester City are set to battle Liverpool, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, and Real Madrid for the signature of Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi in the January transfer window. The 25-year-old has attracted attention from some of Europe's biggest clubs due to his impressive performances for Palace. A move to any of these clubs would represent a significant step up for Guehi, who has established himself as one of the Premier League's most promising defenders. The competition for his signature is expected to be fierce, with each club vying to secure his services to bolster their defensive ranks.
Bayern Munich also reportedly considered a move for Liverpool winger Cody Gakpo over the summer. The 26-year-old Dutchman was among several attackers considered by the German champions, who ultimately opted to sign his former team-mate Luis Diaz. Gakpo's versatility and goal-scoring ability make him an attractive prospect for top clubs, and it remains to be seen whether Bayern Munich will renew their interest in him in the future.
Chelsea have reportedly received a £59.5 million bid from Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah for Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos. The 21-year-old spent last season on loan at Strasbourg in France. This bid highlights the continued financial power of Saudi clubs and their ambition to attract young talent from Europe. Chelsea's decision on whether to accept the offer will depend on their plans for Santos and whether they believe he has a future at Stamford Bridge.
Bournemouth are in advanced talks with Olympiakos over a deal for 20-year-old English striker Zain Silcott-Duberry to join the Greek club. This move could provide Silcott-Duberry with valuable first-team experience and an opportunity to develop his skills in a different footballing environment.
Juventus are reportedly targeting a January move for Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos. The 29-year-old Spanish international was a target for the Italian club over the summer, but no deal was agreed. Juventus' continued interest in Ceballos suggests they view him as a key addition to their squad as they look to strengthen their midfield options.
Finally, Liverpool defender Giovanni Leoni, 18, snubbed a move to Newcastle while at Parma, even though the Magpies were willing to pay the Italian club more than the Reds to sign him. Leoni's decision to join Liverpool underscores the club's reputation for developing young talent and providing them with opportunities to progress.
Ex-Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Spain midfielder Thiago Alcantara, 34, has agreed to re-join former club Barcelona's technical staff working under coach Hansi Flick. This marks a new chapter in Alcantara's career as he transitions from playing to coaching. His experience and knowledge of the game are expected to be valuable assets for Barcelona as they seek to rebuild and compete for major honors.