Bayern aim to hijack Spurs transfer, Real Madrid want Everton youngster – Paper Round

Bayern aim to hijack Spurs move

Bayern Munich are looking to hijack Tottenham’s move for Genoa defender Radu Dragusin, the Standard reports. Spurs had been hoping to sign the centre-back this week, but the Bundesliga champions will make a last-ditch bid that also impacts Eric Dier’s chances of joining Bayern.

Dier is said to have agreed personal terms with Bayern, but that move could be off as Bayern assess their options.

The Standard adds: “Spurs have been locked in talks with Genoa over a deal for the 21-year-old defender but are yet to meet the Italian club’s asking price, believed to be in the region of £21m to £25m.

“Bayern have now also opened negotiations with Genoa over a deal for Dragusin, although the Bavarian club have not agreed a fee either. Dragusin favours a move to the Premier League over Genoa’s Serie A rivals Napoli, who made a player-plus-cash offer at the end of last week, but is thought to be open to joining either Bayern or Spurs this month, with the player expecting clarity on his future this week.”

Real Madrid eye Everton youngster

Real Madrid are monitoring Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, the Daily Mail reports. Real are keen on signing a new centre-back in the summer and could turn to the 21-year-old, who is in contention to make Gareth Southgate’s next England squad.

Branthwaite is also attracting interest from Manchester United and Tottenham, but there is a connection at Real Madrid that could make the Spanish side the frontrunners for this transfer as they consider their options.

The Mail adds: “He is no stranger to Real boss Carlo Ancelotti of course as the Italian gave him his first team debut while coach at Everton and he has often received further messages of encouragement from Carlo’s assistant and son, Davide.

“Real want a centre-back for the summer as they make contingency plans for the recovery of Eder Militao and 31-year-old David Alaba following anterior cruciate ligament injuries.”

No Real Madrid-Mbappe agreement, yet

Kylian Mbappe’s entourage have insisted there is no agreement in place with Real Madrid, according to RMC Sport. There have been conflicting reports in recent days, with some outlets claiming Mbappe to Real Madrid has been agreed given the PSG striker is now free to sign a pre-contract deal with clubs outside of France.

The Times however reported that Mbappe is unhappy with Real’s offer and is subsequently considering a move to the Premier League, prompting RMC Sport to receive intel from the player’s entourage.

RMC Sport write: “There is no agreement around Kylian’s future, especially as discussions have not started…

“Nothing can influence the timing of Kylian’s discussion, reflection or decision. Like two years ago, Kylian Mbappe remains the ‘master of the clocks’, to use the expression dear to Emmanuel Macron.”

Poch’s talks with Gallagher

Mauricio Pochettino has held talks with Conor Gallagher to discuss the midfielder’s future at Chelsea, the Mirror reports. The 23-year-old could reportedly be sold for FFP reasons in January, with Tottenham said to be long-term admirers but put off by Chelsea’s £50m valuation.

The Mirror adds: “Gallagher, 23, has 18 months left on his current deal and wants to stay at Stamford Bridge but Chelsea could yet end up cashing in as they look to strengthen their squad in January. Chelsea boss Pochettino has made Gallagher a big part of his plans and clearly the manager rates the England international even if uncertainty remains.

“Gallagher has even worn the armband on occasion this season and is loved by the fanbase because he has been at the club since he was eight, is a boyhood fan and has made it plain he wants to stay.The midfielder knows all about Chelsea’s history as perennial winners of cup competitions and Pochettino has been brought in to win silverware.”