Transfer Watch: Madrid Eyes Liverpool Midfielder

Real Madrid have identified Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister as a target for a future transfer window, according to reports from Sky Germany. The 27-year-old Argentine international is contracted to Anfield until 2028. Real Madrid manager José Mourinho is a vocal advocate for signing Mac Allister, citing the player's physical presence and strength in challenges as primary reasons for his interest. Liverpool are expected to resist any immediate approach, as they view Mac Allister as a key component of their midfield. No concrete plans exist to extend his current deal, which complicates his long-term status at the club.

The interest in Mac Allister is part of a wider shift in transfer activity across Europe. Liverpool are simultaneously building a shortlist of central midfielders to replace potential departures or bolster depth. Sky Germany reports that the Reds hold Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha in high regard. Nmecha, 26, is under contract with Dortmund until June 2030. He joined the club in 2023 from Wolfsburg. While not a priority target at this moment, Liverpool could move for him if they seek reinforcements in that position. Monaco's Lamine Camara and Bournemouth's Alex Scott are also on Liverpool's list. Both players have been linked with Chelsea and Manchester United in recent months.

Arsenal are looking to the Italian league for attacking options. La Gazzetta dello Sport reports the Gunners are interested in Monza striker Gustavo Varela. The 21-year-old Portuguese forward has scored seven goals in eight Serie A matches this season. His form has attracted attention from Napoli and his former club, Benfica. Napoli could make a move in January to secure his services before other competitors react. Benfica retain the right to match future offers and are entitled to 20% of the profit from his next transfer.

Manchester United are continuing their pursuit of Newcastle United left back Lewis Hall. Football Insider reports the 22-year-old could cost upwards of £70 million. Hall recently extended his contract with Newcastle until 2031. The club is set to reject any departure in January, suggesting a summer move is more likely. Hall is reportedly happy at St James' Park, though he has not ruled out a future move to Old Trafford. Bayern Munich are also monitoring Borussia Mönchengladbach's Wael Mohya. The 17-year-old is under contract until 2028. Gladbach want to extend his deal with a release clause, but his stay beyond next summer depends on the club avoiding relegation.

Other notable movements include Chelsea winger Jamie Gittens being added to Roma's winter wish list. Roma are also interested in Stuttgart's Jamie Leweling, a player they nearly signed in the summer. Arsenal and Barcelona are tracking Club Brugge forward Nicolò Tresoldi. Paris Saint-Germain are considering a January move for Bayer Leverkusen star Ibrahim Maza. In response, Leverkusen are attempting to sign Maza to a new long-term contract. Crystal Palace are reluctant to let Ismaïla Sarr leave in January after holding talks over a new deal. Sarr had wanted to join Liverpool in the summer. Liverpool are also monitoring Leeds defender Tarik Muharemović, who is attracting interest from Inter, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Borussia Dortmund.

Manchester United and Chelsea are both tracking Twente wonderkid Ruud Nijstad. Ajax are keen to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Tolu Arokodare on a permanent deal. Manchester United would have to pay £6 million in compensation to Newcastle to sign Eddie Howe, according to the Telegraph. Christian Pulisic is reportedly one step away from penning a new deal with AC Milan. Juventus and Roma are tracking the development of Genoa midfielder Samuel Wiafe.