JONATHAN DAVID'S FUTURE: EUROPE AND SAUDI TALKS INTENSIVE
At the beginning of December we reported that Jonathan David's agent, Nick Mavromaras, had been in contact with interested clubs, with demands for commissions in excess of €10 million and a salary for the player starting from €6 million per year over a four-term term. or five years. agreement.
Clubs such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Inter Milan have recently requested updates on these terms. Inter in particular wants to intensify its hunt, with the aim of surpassing the competition.
Meanwhile, Al Nassr has started the race aggressively. The Saudi club sees David as a key target for their attack and is preparing an offer of around €10 million for Lille, €8 million for the agent, and a three-year contract worth more than €6 million per year for the player. However, the proposal is currently on hold as newly appointed CEO Majed Al Jamaan reviews the club's transfer strategy and wants to take his time.
Although David prefers to remain in Europe, such a lucrative offer could prompt the Canadian striker to reconsider his options. Lille, who have no intention of losing him on a free transfer in June, appear inclined to accept an offer of this magnitude.
TOTTENHAM IS CONSIDERING FAGIOLI (AND CARDOSO) FOR MIDFIELD
Nicolò Fagioli's departure from Juventus is looking increasingly likely, with Tottenham Hotspur emerging as the frontrunners to secure the Italian midfielder. Fagioli, valued at around €25 million, has found little playing time under coach Thiago Motta. His recent omission from the starting line-up in the Italian Super Cup semi-final against Milan has reinforced his desire to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Despite his gratitude to Juventus for their continued support during his gambling suspension, Fagioli is eager for a fresh start abroad. The Premier League, and especially Tottenham, is at the top of his list of favorite destinations. Spurs coach Ange Postecoglou is a huge admirer of the midfielder and sees him as an important addition to address the team's ongoing problems this season, in addition to the problems he also has in defense due to numerous injuries.
Fagioli's agent will meet with Tottenham in the coming days to evaluate the margin for negotiation. In any case, not only is Fagioli in Tottenham's sights, the English club is also exploring various options for the midfield, including the possibility of anticipating the signing of Johnny Cardoso from Real Betis as early as January.
ATALANTA EYE RAYAN CHERKI – BUT NO OFFER TO LYON YET
Atalanta have shown strong interest in Lyon's talented attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki, but no formal offer has been made at this stage. Regardless, sources close to the Italian club indicate that the Nerazzurri are willing to offer a significant package of around €25 million plus bonuses to secure the Frenchman's services. Despite their willingness to invest, direct talks have yet to take place between Atalanta and Cherki.
The twenty-year-old player, widely regarded as one of France's greatest talents, still needs to be convinced of the sporting project in Bergamo. His high technical qualities are considered important elements by Atalanta, who see him as a potential key figure in their race for both the Serie A and the Champions League. However, convincing the player to join the Nerazzurri will require a clear and compelling vision for his role within Gian Piero Gasperini's tactical system.
The Italian coach, in turn, is ready to control the somewhat hot-headed character of the French footballer, a bit like what happens with Nicolò Zaniolo, who, despite a few episodes that have gotten out of hand, is becoming more mature not only technically, but also. also from a behavioral point of view. While there have been no concrete developments yet, Atalanta's willingness to make a substantial financial commitment confirms that they are serious about this.
MAN UTD WANTS KVARATSKHELIA IN SWAP FOR RASHFORD
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia remains a vital player at Napoli, but growing interest from Premier League clubs is creating uncertainty over his future. Recent talks between Manchester United and Napoli have mainly focused on Marcus Rashford, but the Georgian winger has also been the subject of discussion: it is not without reason that Kvaratskhelia is on United's shortlist as a potential replacement for Marcus.
Nevertheless, a transfer in January is ruled out, because Kvaratskhelia is prioritizing negotiations about a contract extension with Napoli. Both the club and coach Antonio Conte are working to meet the player's demands in the hope of securing his long-term commitment. If no agreement is reached in the coming months, Kvaratskhelia is prepared to explore alternative options in the summer. While Manchester United are now keeping a close eye on him, their interest could wane as they address their immediate needs in the January window. Meanwhile, Liverpool remains in the race: the Reds, who explored negotiating margins with Kvaratskhelia at the end of August, continue to monitor his situation.
A renewed approach from Arne Slot's side in the coming weeks could pave the way for a possible summer transfer. For now, Napoli is keen to keep its star, but Premier League fans will surely make other moves soon.
RONALDO REFLECTS ON THE FINAL STAGE OF THE PLAYING CAREER
Cristiano Ronaldo is thoughtfully considering his future as he approaches the twilight of his illustrious career. Still driven by the desire to win trophies, this motivation remains a central pillar of his ambition. Currently at Al-Nassr, Ronaldo wants to lead the Saudi club to a historic victory in the AFC Champions League, a title they have never won.
However, he recognizes the need for a strong supporting team as his physical capabilities no longer allow him to carry out the attack on his own. With his contract set to expire in June, Ronaldo is not rushing any decisions. He is weighing three options: continuing at Al-Nassr, possibly taking advantage of the arrival of the new CEO to push for strengthening the squad, returning to Portugal or quitting professional football.
Although Ronaldo has expressed his desire to retire after the 2026 World Cup, a successful campaign in the AFC Champions League could see him reconsider his career and possibly end his career on an all-time high. This period of introspection highlights Ronaldo's commitment to meticulously planning the final chapter of his journey, ensuring it reflects the excellence and legacy that has defined his time in football.
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