Transfer Rumors: Baleba Eyes Old Trafford, Real Madrid Lines Up Rodrygo Replacement

The football world is buzzing with transfer speculation as January approaches. Today’s headlines are dominated by a potential blockbuster move to Old Trafford and Real Madrid’s contingency plans for a star forward. Join us as we dive into the latest gossip featuring names like Lionel Messi, Mohamed Salah, Gabriel Martinelli, and Robert Lewandowski.

Premier League: Manchester United’s Midfield Pursuit and Arsenal’s Contract Priorities

The Premier League remains a hotbed of transfer activity, with several clubs looking to strengthen their squads or secure the futures of key players.

Baleba’s Manchester United Demand

In a significant development, Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba has reportedly expressed his desire to join Manchester United in January. According to Theatre of Red, Baleba views a move to Old Trafford as an “irresistible opportunity.” This could ignite a fierce transfer battle for the talented youngster.

Martinelli’s Uncertain Arsenal Future

Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli is attracting interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League, casting a shadow over his long-term future at the Emirates. CaughtOffside reports that negotiations for a new contract have stalled, making him a prime target for clubs with significant financial backing.

Wharton’s Price Drop Sparks Multi-Club Interest

Crystal Palace’s asking price for rising star Adam Wharton has reportedly dropped from a hefty £100 million ($135.5 million) to a more attainable £60 million ($81.3 million). This development has ignited a bidding war, with Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Real Madrid all keen on acquiring the England international, as per TEAMtalk.

Liverpool Eyes Salah’s Successor

Liverpool are already planning for a future without Mohamed Salah, with Fichajes reporting that Lyon forward Malick Fofana has been identified as the player to fill the Egyptian’s prolific boots when he eventually departs Anfield.

Arsenal Prioritizes Saka and Saliba Contracts

With the summer transfer window closed, Arsenal’s immediate priority is securing the long-term futures of star duo Bukayo Saka and William Saliba. According to CaughtOffside, Andrea Berta is “accelerating” negotiations for new contracts for the high-profile pair, crucial to the Gunners’ ambitions.

Onana’s Manchester United Exit Looms

Manchester United reportedly have no interest in seeing André Onana feature for the Red Devils again once his loan spell at Trabzonspor concludes. Football Insider suggests a permanent exit is on the cards for the goalkeeper.

Chelsea Not Pursuing Guéhi

Despite their defensive vulnerabilities, Chelsea are not considering a January move for Liverpool target Marc Guéhi, according to TEAMtalk. This decision may surprise some given their lack of depth at center-back.

Casemiro Rejects Al Ittihad Reunion

Casemiro has turned down the opportunity to reunite with former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema at Al Ittihad this summer. CaughtOffside reports that the Brazilian midfielder is set to remain in Europe for the foreseeable future.

La Liga: Real Madrid’s Forward Planning and Messi’s Barcelona Link

Spain’s top flight is also awash with transfer stories, particularly concerning the futures of some of its biggest stars and potential new arrivals.

Real Madrid Considers Barcola as Rodrygo Replacement

Real Madrid are reportedly eyeing Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola as a potential replacement for Rodrygo, should the Brazilian depart the Spanish capital in the summer. Fichajes indicates that Barcola, who rejected Liverpool’s advances over the summer, could command a fee upwards of €100 million ($117.2 million).

Messi’s Potential Role in Barcelona Elections

In a surprising twist, Barcelona have reportedly contacted Lionel Messi in an attempt to persuade him to play a role in the club’s upcoming presidential elections. Cadena SER suggests the club is hoping to leverage his influence.

Manchester City to Fund Rodrygo Move with Savinho Sale

Manchester City are reportedly prepared to sanction the sale of Tottenham Hotspur target Savinho to fund an €80 million ($93.8 million) move for Real Madrid’s Rodrygo. Estadio Deportivo indicates a potential merry-go-round of attacking talent.

Rüdiger Tipped for Saudi Arabia Move

Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger has been tipped for a move to Saudi Arabia once his contract expires in June, according to Fichajes. This could see another high-profile player join the burgeoning Saudi Pro League.

Konaté Emerges as Lewandowski Successor

RB Salzburg’s Karim Konaté has emerged as a surprise contender to fill the void left by Robert Lewandowski at Barcelona next season, as reported by Africa Soccer. This unexpected link highlights Barcelona’s search for a new prolific striker.

Premier League Clubs Eye Barcelona Teenager

Barcelona’s teenage starlet Dro Fernández is attracting significant interest from the Premier League, with Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United all reportedly keen. Fichajes suggests a potential battle for the young talent’s signature.

For more in-depth analysis and the latest updates on these and other transfer rumors, be sure to check out our latest transfer rumors from the past few days.

Published Sep 10, 2025 by SI STAFF