Guardiola asks Haaland to stop Real Madrid talks as summer transfer battle heats up
The summer transfer window is still months away but the maneuvering is well underway, with Erling Haaland's future at Manchester City the story that refuses to go quiet.
Guardiola tells Haaland: focus on City
Pep Guardiola has reportedly asked Haaland to pause his ongoing discussions with Real Madrid and concentrate on the remainder of the season. Haaland signed a contract extension with City in January 2025 that runs until 2034, but reports suggest Real Madrid president Florentino Perez remains in regular contact with the striker's agent, Rafaela Pimienta.
Haaland is said to view a move to Madrid as a long-term career goal. Any deal would likely hinge on the departure of Vinicius Junior, which would free up both squad space and funds for what could be a fee exceeding half a billion euros. For now, Guardiola wants his striker's head firmly at the Etihad.
United chase Diomande as Carrick rebuild continues
Manchester United have made RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande their top summer target. The 19-year-old Ivorian, who can play on either flank but is being targeted to fill United's left-wing vacancy, has scored 11 goals and provided six assists in 27 appearances this season.
United's director of recruitment Christopher Vivell is driving the pursuit, but Leipzig have slapped an asking price in the region of 80 million to 100 million euros on a player they signed only last summer. Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring the situation, and United's ability to close any deal may depend on whether they qualify for the Champions League.
Liverpool eye Diaby as Salah successor
Liverpool are in contact with representatives of Al-Ittihad winger Moussa Diaby over a summer move. The 26-year-old French international, who left Aston Villa for Saudi Arabia in July 2024, is valued at around 35 million pounds and wants to return to European football.
Liverpool see Diaby as a potential long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah. Chelsea, Newcastle, Borussia Dortmund and Atletico Madrid are also reportedly interested, which could drive the price up or force Liverpool to move quickly.
Arsenal make Hincapie permanent
Arsenal will make Piero Hincapie's loan from Bayer Leverkusen permanent this summer in a deal worth 52 million euros. The Ecuadorian defender joined on loan in September 2025 and has started 15 Premier League matches. Meanwhile, the Gunners are ready to accept loan offers for young defender Myles Lewis-Skelly, with Everton and Real Madrid both interested.
