Real Madrid Monitor Bayer Leverkusen Centre-Back Jarell Quansah
Real Madrid are weighing a defensive rebuild for next summer, with Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Jarell Quansah among the players being watched. The 23-year-old England international has settled quickly in Germany following his €35 million move from Liverpool in 2025, and his performances have drawn the attention of the Spanish club as it considers bringing in at least two defenders. Arsenal, who had previously shown interest in Quansah, are also keeping an eye on his situation.
Barcelona’s need to generate funds for incoming business could create an opening for leading English clubs to pursue Jules Koundé. Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City have all been made aware that the France international may become available. Chelsea are monitoring the right-back closely, with Xabi Alonso seeking further depth in that position.
Premier League clubs assess January and summer options
Tottenham Hotspur have expanded their long-term goalkeeper search to include Hull City’s Konstantinos Tzolakis, while Brighton & Hove Albion’s Bart Verbruggen remains another admired option. Tzolakis, 23, joined Hull from Olympiakos for £20 million in the summer and has recorded three clean sheets from his first five Premier League matches. Spurs’ interest in Verbruggen has also continued independently of their watching brief on the Greece international.
Bournemouth have no intention of selling Alex Scott during the January window despite attention from Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea. The England midfielder is also 23 and has two years remaining on his contract after this season. Bournemouth are expected to resist approaches until at least the summer, with a fee of £100 million or more in mind for any eventual sale.
At Real Madrid, Endrick could again be sent out on loan in January if his lack of minutes persists. Roma remain interested in the Brazilian forward after his earlier spell with Lyon, although the opportunities offered by José Mourinho following his arrival as Madrid manager may shape the player’s decision.
Manchester United want to tie Bruno Fernandes to a new agreement as Atlético Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Galatasaray follow the midfielder’s contract position. United may also have been given encouragement in their pursuit of Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde, whose reduced involvement has raised the prospect of a January move.
Liverpool are considering a January approach for Brentford forward Kevin Schade. They are also continuing to follow Lyon midfielder Tyler Morton, who left Anfield during the previous summer transfer window.
Juventus have been monitoring Netherlands internationals Virgil van Dijk and Brian Brobbey, with scouts watching both players in the Netherlands’ draw against Germany.
Further recruitment plans across Europe
Dinamo Zagreb defender Noa Mikić has attracted a broad group of observers. Bayer Leverkusen, Newcastle United, Brentford, Ipswich Town and Hull City are all tracking the young defender’s development.
Napoli are assembling a January shortlist that includes FC Basel winger Asane Sow, Monaco midfielder Mamadou Coulibaly, Rennes midfielder Sebastian Szymański and Fiorentina defender Dodô. The four-man plan covers wide attacking, midfield and defensive options as Napoli prepare for the winter market.
