Leeds United 'seriously consider' triggering £17m bargain release clause as Man Utd eye ex-Rangers star
The latest Premier League transfer news with updates involving Arsenal, Leeds United, Manchester United and more
Gameweek 9 of the Premier League gets underway today, with a stacked line-up of fixtures involving England’s elite. Eight of the weekend’s fixtures take place on Saturday, including Man United’s trip to face Chelsea, and Man City against Brighton, with Sunday’s only game being Liverpool vs Arsenal. Things will be rounded off on Monday, when Newcastle host Everton.
Meanwhile, clubs are already starting to turn their attentions towards the January transfer window. The likes of Chelsea and Manchester United have very specific requirements - the former need a midfielder, the latter a left-back - while Everton need as many players as they can get their hands on, after heading into the new season with a worryingly threadbare squad.
Today’s rumours round-up begins at the Emirates Stadium, where Arsenal will still be licking their wounds after being dumped out of the Carabao Cup by Fleetwood Town in midweek. According to Sky Sports in Germany, the future of their attacking midfield star Martin Odegaard remains uncertain, as the Gunners look to tie him down to a new deal.
If said deal isn’t agreed, it’s suggested that Arsenal could sell him next summer to avoid losing the Norway international for nothing come 2028. Bayern Munich are rumoured to be monitoring the situation closely, and could make their move should it become apparent that the ex-Real Madrid star is looking to move on.
The 3AM Verdict: Having Odegaard back fit and firing has been great news for Arsenal, and he’ll clearly play an important role in their push to retain their Premier League title this season. At 27, he’s a player very much in his prime, and the Gunners should push on to get that extension sorted, as there will be no shortage of rival clubs keen to snap him up.
Man United linked with Bassey move
Meanwhile, Manchester United will be hoping their shaky defence can stand up to the challenge of Chelsea’s potent attack this weekend - a task which should be aided by the Blues’ star striker Joao Pedro being injured. According to Team Talk, the Red Devils have now taken a shine to Fulham defender Calvin Bassey, as they look to strengthen their back line in January.
It’s said that the ex-Rangers star’s fine form and leadership qualities are greatly admired at Old Trafford, while Everton and Newcastle United are also believed to be closely watching the player. Fulham, however, are said to be determined to keep the Nigerian international at the club, and have the option to extend his contract beyond it’s current summer 2027 expiry date.
The 3AM Verdict: Bassey is having a decent season with Fulham, but the club have hardly become renowned for their rigid defences during his time at the club. Signing a Premier League proven player would be a wise move for United, but they should really be aiming a little higher if they’re wanting to sign a notable upgrade on their current crop of talent.
Leeds United chase Sevilla winger
We’ll finish up with Leeds United, who are preparing to take on a fellow in-form side in Bournemouth this weekend. According to reports from Spain, carried by Sport Witness, the Whites are set to make a “strong push” to sign Sevilla winger Miguel Sierra, who has enjoyed a strong start to the season in La Liga.
It’s said that Leeds are “seriously considering” paying the player’s release clause - which is only around £17m - to get the deal done as they look to improve their options on the flanks. However, it is noted that the 22-year-old is currently out with an injury, which could potentially put Leeds’ plans on hold for now until they determine how long his recovery will take.
The 3AM Verdict: Sierra looks to be a bit of a late bloomer, with no Spain youth caps behind him and highly limited first team experience in top flight football. He does appear to be having somewhat of a breakthrough season, however, and at £17m the Whites could find themselves a serious bargain who could be flipped for a profit in the future.