How PSG plan to win the Champions League
Paris Saint-Germain are planning an ambitious attempt to partner Kylian Mbappe with Manchester City striker Erling Haaland in a bid to win the Champions League next season. The French champions were dumped out of Europe’s elite competition in the last-16 stage, so are focusing on how they can bounce back next season.
“It has been suggested that Neymar and Lionel Messi, 31 and 35 respectively, could be moved on this summer, which would open up space on the club’s already-burgeoning wage bill for the Norwegian.
“With the Holy Grail of the Champions League trophy remaining ever elusive, it seems Europe’s most prolific goalscorer has been earmarked as the answer to their problems.”
Liverpool eye Palhinha
Liverpool have joined the race to sign Joao Palhinha from Fulham this summer. The Portguese midfield only joined the west London club last summer, but he has attracted attention from a number of Premier League rivals. Fulham are reluctant to sell Palhinha and have slapped a whopping £60-million price tag on the highly-rated 27-year-old.
“He was signed for £20million, but sources claim that Fulham now value Palhinha closer to treble that amount.
“He still has over four year left to run on his current deal with Fulham, so they are under no pressure to entertain losing him. Fulham are confident that they can keep Palhinha for a least one more year – but interest is growing.”
Chelsea could cash in on Chilwell
Chelsea are considering the possibility of selling Ben Chilwell this summer as the England international comes to a crossroads in his contractual situation at Stamford Bridge. Chilwell has two years remaining on his current contract and the Blues are debating whether to negotiate a new deal or open the door to Manchester City, who have held long-term interest in the 26-year-old.
“Chelsea spent an initial £56million to buy Marc Cucurella from Brighton & Hove Albion last year so they have an experienced figure in the squad to replace him.
“The Athletic has been told by sources within the club, who have spoken anonymously to protect relationships, that there is genuine interest from Pep Guardiola’s side.”
Barca keen to keep Dembele
Barcelona are hoping to reach an agreement with Ousmane Dembele over a contract extension to keep the French forward at the Camp Nou beyond this summer. Dembele agreed a one-year extension last year due to Barcelona’s salary cap restrictions and could be forced to do the same again as the Blaugrana attempt to keep the 25-year-old.
“The idea is either to try to make another short extension while keeping the clause low or to make a longer contract with progressive increases.
“In France, PSG are already talking again and in England there are several teams interested [in signing Dembele].”
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