What the papers say
At least three Premier League clubs are considering launching bids for Stefan de Vrij after Lazio confirmed he was leaving, the Daily Mirror reports. The Holland international is said to desire joining Manchester United, however Arsenal and Liverpool are reportedly mulling approaches for the 26-year-old. de Vrij posted on Instagram on Tuesday: “Even though I am very happy and I feel at home here, sometimes we need to get out of our comfort zone to achieve our desired goals.” Lazio sporting director Igli Tare confirmed talks over a new deal had ended and there is speculation that a United deal may already be in place, the paper says.
Watford’s French midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure has said he is being pursued by Arsenal, Tottenham and Liverpool, The Sun reports. The 25-year-old told French television programme Telefoot that his prime choice would be to play for Arsene Wenger. Such move would pay off handsomely for club and player – Doucoure arrived at Vicarage Road as part of an £8million deal in 2016 and is on £60,000-a-week, the paper says.
Napoli defensive midfielder Jorginho could be free to leave for Manchester United if the Serie A giants decide to “sacrifice” him to bring in new talent, the Sun reports his agent as saying. The 26-year-old’s representatives are said to have travelled to the north west in January, sparking speculation of a summer move to Old Trafford. The Brazil-born Italy international is said to be happy in Naples, however agent Joan Santos said the arrival of a younger player could see him let go. “That will require an important investment and Jorginho could be sacrificed to make way,” he said.
West Ham are ready to offer David Moyes a two-year contract if he keeps the club from relegation, the Daily Express reports. Helicoptered in on a temporary deal following the sacking of Slaven Bilic in November, Moyes is said to have impressed bosses after steadying the ship. The Hammers remain in the bottom half of the table and four points away from the danger zone. However they have won seven Premier League games in eight under the Scottish former Manchester United, Everton and Sunderland boss, who has reportedly been scouting players including Hibernian’s 23-year-old midfielder John McGinn.
With the prospect of losing Eden Hazard over the summer Chelsea have been drawing up contingency plans, with Borussia Dortmund’s £88million-rated 19-year-old Christian Pulisic tipped for a bid, the Daily Mail reports. The Blues, however, may have a serious fight on their hands as Bayern Munich are rumoured to be planning a swoop for the American winger. Pulisic, who is under a contract at the Bundesliga giants until 2020, has also been reported as a target for Manchester United and Liverpool.
Social media roundup
Players to watch
Eliot Matazo: Both Manchester United and Manchester City are tracking the Anderlect midfielder, 16, ahead of an expected summer move away from the Belgian club, according to Voetbal Belgie.
Mohamed Bahlouli: Liverpool scouts are monitoring the Lyon midfielder, 18, amid speculation a bid will be made later this year, France Football reports.
Arthur: Barcelona have secured the Gremio’s 21-year-old Brazilian midfielder for £35million, fending off competition from Manchester United, but he will not be at the Camp Nou until January, the Daily Mail reports.
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