Several big transfers across Europe are waiting on the domino effect and Robert Lewandowski's future at Bayern Munich looks to be the tipping point.
A move to the Nou Camp remains the player’s and Barca’s wish but questions are being asked about how the cash-strapped club can afford him. Should that deal not be agreed alternatives are being lined up.
AC Milan are ready to tie up a deal for a player they believe can be the long term heart of their midfield while Villarreal consider selling a crown jewel. Mirror Sport takes a look at the top transfer news stories and gossip from across the continent today.
Lewandowski's exit strategy
Lewandowski says he does not want to force his way out of the Allianz Arena but remains hopeful Bayern Munich will allow him to join Barcelona. The Poland striker said he has lost his motivation at Bayern and wants to begin a new challenge in Spain.
But, speaking to BILD, Lewandowski admitted he did not want confrontation with the Bundesliga champions. "I think it is better for Bayern to invest the money they can get for me than to keep me until the end of my contract,” he said.
“I don’t want to force anything. I want to find the best solution for both sides. Bayern are one of the biggest clubs in the world, a dream club for many players. I want this to end, we are not enemies. I am sure we will find an agreement together.”
Barca players vent
Senior Barcelona players squad are said to be unhappy about the possibility of having to take a further wage cut despite the club splashing the cash in the transfer market.
According to a Barcelona fan site president Juan Laporta enforced pay cuts on players last summer in order to be able to register new players. And heading into a new campaign, Laporta is once again raising the prospect despite being ready to break the bank to bring in new players of Robert Lewandowski’s calibre.
Barca are also ready to switch attentions to PSG winger Angel Di Maria if their pursuit of Leeds Raphinha continues to stall. The Catalan giants believe the Brazilian flier is the perfect replacement for the departing Ousmane Dembele due to his skill out wide. But with Leeds playing hardball over the fee, Di Maria, who is out of contract with PSG, has emerged as a cut-priced alternative.
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AC Milan close in midfielder
Serie A champions AC Milan are close to agreeing the signing of Portugal midfielder Renato Sanches from Lille according to Milan News.
Agreement with Sanches on a £17million deal worth £3m a year for the player is ready to be signed. Sanches, 24, has travelled to Milan and has visited the facilities and the city itself ahead of the potential move and has been identified by Director of Football Paolo Maldini as the heir to Franck Kessie.
Yellow Submarine ready to cash in
Villarreal front man Gerard Moreno is reportedly available for as little as £34m this summer despite having a £85m release clause in his contract.
The striker, who is the Yellow Submarine’s best players, is under contract until 2027 at Estadio de la Ceramica. But he is coming off a season where he played less than half of the club’s La Liga games due to injury and according to reports, Villarreal could listen to offers around the £34m mark this summer.
Juve eye assist king
Juventus have put creative talent Domenico Berardi on their summer shopping list according to Calciomercato. The Sassuolo man-made 17 assists in 33 league games last season, and he also scored 15 times. These numbers make him one of the most productive players in the Italian top flight, and Juve believe he could do a job for Max Allegri.
