Van Dijk Likely to Reject Liverpool’s Contract Offer
Virgil van Dijk is set to turn down Liverpool’s opening contract offer, according to The Athletic. The proposed deal is said to have “fallen short” of the 33-year-old’s expectations, with discussions still ongoing regarding the contract’s length and salary. This is the first contract offer Liverpool have made as they aim to resolve the futures of key first-team players, including Van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Bayer Leverkusen Look to Secure Victor Boniface with New Deal
Bayer Leverkusen are reportedly planning to extend striker Victor Boniface’s contract to fend off interest from other clubs, including Manchester United. According to Sky Sports Deutschland’s Florian Plettenberg, the Bundesliga club is hoping to sign the 23-year-old to a long-term deal running until 2029. Boniface, who has netted six goals in eight league starts this season, has caught the attention of several top clubs, with United reportedly monitoring his situation as manager Ruben Amorim searches for a long-term striker option.
Barcelona Interested in Orlando Pirates’ Relebohile Mofokeng
Barcelona are keen to sign 20-year-old Orlando Pirates winger Relebohile Mofokeng, according to Soccer Laduma. Mofokeng, who has impressed with four goals and five assists this season, has previously been on trial with clubs like Wolves, Levante, and Rangers. Premier League sides have also shown interest, but Barcelona are particularly eager to bring him into their B team.
Barcelona Fall Behind in Race for Viktor Gyökeres
Barcelona are reportedly trailing in the race to sign Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres, according to Diario Sport. The Sweden international, who has scored 24 goals in 21 games for Sporting this season, is a target for Manchester United and Manchester City. Barcelona initially considered him as a potential replacement for Robert Lewandowski, but with Lewandowski nearing an automatic contract extension, the club is hesitant to make a major investment in that position. Foot Mercato adds that Paris Saint-Germain, who had been in talks with Gyökeres’ representatives, are no longer pursuing the player after coach Luis Enrique decided he wouldn’t fit into his system.
AC Milan Confident Rafael Leão Will Stay
AC Milan are optimistic that winger Rafael Leão will stay at the club, according to Calciomercato. The 25-year-old has been linked with several top European clubs, but following strong performances under manager Paulo Fonseca, Milan are hopeful that Leão will extend his stay at San Siro. Leão has directly contributed to nine goals in 18 matches this season.
