European Football Weekly Round-Up: Transfer Drama, Managerial Changes & Season Finales (May 24–30, 2025)
As the curtain falls on the 2024/25 European football season, the continent’s top leagues are abuzz with transfer sagas, managerial upheavals, and the emotional farewells of club legends. From Liverpool’s record-breaking bid for Florian Wirtz to Thomas Müller’s departure from Bayern Munich, here’s a comprehensive look at the week’s most compelling stories across Europe’s major leagues.
English Premier League
Liverpool’s Pursuit of Florian Wirtz
Liverpool have made headlines with a staggering £109 million bid for Bayer Leverkusen’s attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz. This offer surpasses their previous record signing of Darwin Núñez in 2022. While Leverkusen are holding out for £126 million, Wirtz has reportedly agreed to personal terms with the Reds. With Manchester City and Bayern Munich withdrawing their interest, Liverpool remain optimistic about finalizing the deal.
Manchester United’s Transfer Strategy Under Scrutiny
Manchester United’s reported interest in Brighton’s left-back Pervis Estupiñán has raised eyebrows among fans. With the club already possessing depth in that position, supporters are urging the management to focus on strengthening other areas, such as the midfield and forward lines. Speculations also surround the futures of Antony and Bruno Fernandes, with potential moves to Real Betis and Al-Hilal, respectively.
Man Utd’s Alejandro Garnacho gamble: Red Devils risk watching homegrown winger become world star away from Old Trafford as they go all in on Ruben Amorim
Manchester United are playing a risky game as they prioritize their managerial pursuit of Ruben Amorim, potentially at the expense of keeping rising star Alejandro Garnacho. The 20-year-old Argentine winger, a product of United’s academy, has shown flashes of brilliance this season, drawing attention from elite European clubs. Amid managerial uncertainty and shifting tactical priorities, there’s growing concern that Garnacho could slip through United’s fingers and blossom into a global star elsewhere. Letting go of such homegrown talent may haunt the Red Devils, especially if Amorim’s system doesn’t accommodate Garnacho’s attacking flair and development trajectory.
Why Man Utd Are Signing Matheus Cunha
Manchester United are set to sign Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers for £62.5 million, meeting his release clause. This move aims to bolster United’s attacking options, especially amid uncertainties surrounding Bruno Fernandes’ future. Cunha’s versatility—capable of playing as a forward, second striker, or winger—aligns with manager Ruben Amorim’s tactical preferences. His impressive performance last season, with 15 Premier League goals, highlights his potential impact at Old Trafford.
Despite expressing contentment at Wolves, Cunha’s transfer to United reflects the club’s commitment to rejuvenating their squad after a disappointing season. His addition is expected to enhance United’s attacking dynamics and provide fresh impetus for the upcoming campaign.
Liverpool accept Real Madrid offer for Trent Alexander-Arnold transfer
Liverpool have agreed to transfer Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid for €10 million, allowing the defender to join the Spanish club ahead of his contract’s expiration. This early move enables Alexander-Arnold to participate in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup with Real Madrid.
Initially, Alexander-Arnold was set to leave Liverpool on a free transfer at the end of June. However, Real Madrid’s desire to have him available for the Club World Cup prompted negotiations for an early release. Liverpool, recognizing his contributions and professionalism, agreed to the deal, ensuring they received a transfer fee rather than losing him for free.
The 26-year-old’s move marks the end of a significant chapter at Anfield, where he developed through the youth ranks and became a key figure in the team’s successes. His departure is part of Liverpool’s broader strategy to rejuvenate the squad, as evidenced by their recent record-breaking bid for Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz. .
At Real Madrid, Alexander-Arnold joins a roster of high-profile players, with the club reportedly setting a substantial release clause in his contract, reflecting their commitment to securing top talent.
This transfer underscores the evolving dynamics of European football, where strategic planning and timely negotiations play crucial roles in shaping team compositions ahead of major tournaments.
Chelsea make immediate Liam Delap transfer ‘demand’ after £30m agreement reached
Chelsea have finalized a £30 million deal to sign Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, activating a release clause triggered by Ipswich’s relegation from the Premier League. Delap, 22, is expected to undergo a medical on Monday and sign a long-term contract with the Blues. The move reunites him with Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, under whom he previously played at Manchester City’s academy
Chelsea’s immediate demand is for Delap to participate in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, starting June 14 in the United States. This request may conflict with his inclusion in England’s provisional squad for the European Under-21 Championship, which begins on June 11. Chelsea are reportedly negotiating to prioritize his availability for the Club World Cup.
Delap’s decision to join Chelsea over Manchester United and other interested clubs was influenced by several factors. Notably, former Chelsea manager and current England boss Thomas Tuchel advised him that playing in the Champions League would enhance his prospects for national team selection ahead of the World Cup. Chelsea’s qualification for European football, unlike Manchester United and Everton, played a significant role in his choice.
In the 2024/25 season, Delap scored 12 goals in 37 Premier League appearances for Ipswich. At Chelsea, he will compete with forwards like Nicolas Jackson and potentially new signings, as the club continues to strengthen its attacking options.
The transfer aligns with Chelsea’s broader strategy to build a youthful, dynamic squad under Maresca’s leadership, aiming for sustained success in domestic and European competitions.
Gyokeres and Sesko decision, clear priority :Next Arsenal transfer decided
Arsenal are intensifying their pursuit of a top-tier striker this summer, with RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško emerging as the primary target. The 21-year-old Slovenian forward, who netted 21 goals in the 2024/25 season, is viewed as an ideal fit for Mikel Arteta’s tactical setup. Despite Šeško recently extending his contract with Leipzig, a performance-based release clause keeps the door open for a potential transfer.
Should negotiations for Šeško falter, Arsenal have identified Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres as a strong alternative. The Swedish striker had an exceptional season, scoring 43 goals and providing 15 assists in 50 appearances. However, his €100 million release clause presents a significant financial consideration.
With the departures of key players and the need to bolster their attacking options, Arsenal’s focus on securing a prolific striker underscores their commitment to challenging for major honors in the upcoming season.
Arsenal finalizing Zubimendi deal
Arsenal are finalizing the signing of Spanish midfielder Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad after agreeing to pay his £51 million release clause. The 26-year-old is set to undergo a medical in London, marking the club’s first major acquisition under new sporting director Andrea Berta.
Zubimendi, a Euro 2024 winner, was also pursued by Liverpool and Real Madrid but was swayed by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s vision and their shared Basque heritage. His arrival is expected to bolster Arsenal’s midfield, especially with Jorginho’s departure to Flamengo and ongoing contract discussions with Thomas Partey.
Known for his progressive playstyle and defensive prowess, Zubimendi is seen as a long-term successor to Sergio Busquets. His addition could allow Declan Rice to adopt a more advanced role, enhancing Arsenal’s tactical flexibility.
With this signing, Arsenal demonstrate their intent to strengthen the squad and challenge for major honors in the upcoming season.
Bundesliga:
Thomas Müller’s Emotional Departure from Bayern Munich
After an illustrious 25-year tenure, Thomas Müller is set to leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season. The 35-year-old forward has amassed 350 Bundesliga victories, becoming the first player in history to achieve this feat. His departure marks the end of an era for both the player and the club.
Bayern Munich still scoping Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku?; Arsenal talking to RB Leipzig for Benjamin Šeško;
Bayern Munich are reportedly revisiting their interest in Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku, with the French forward open to a move and his transfer fee potentially reduced from the previous €60 million.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have initiated talks with RB Leipzig for Benjamin Šeško, the 21-year-old Slovenian striker who netted 21 goals in the 2024/25 season. Despite Šeško recently extending his contract with Leipzig, a performance-based release clause keeps the door open for a potential transfer
Bayern Munich also hold an interest in Šeško but are not prioritizing a striker while Harry Kane remains central to their plans.
As the summer transfer window unfolds, both clubs are making strategic moves to strengthen their squads for the upcoming season.
La Liga
Atlético Madrid’s Interest in Cristian Romero and Álex Baena
Tottenham Hotspur’s defender Cristian ‘Cuti’ Romero has expressed his desire to play in La Liga, with Atlético Madrid emerging as a potential destination. The Argentine’s experience and defensive prowess could bolster Atlético’s backline. Additionally, the club is eyeing Villarreal’s midfielder Álex Baena to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.
Atletico Madrid open to selling iconic defender this summer
Atlético Madrid are reportedly open to selling veteran defender Stefan Savić during the upcoming summer transfer window, marking a significant shift in their defensive lineup. Despite recently triggering a one-year contract extension, Savić has expressed a desire to seek new challenges, with interest emerging from clubs in Saudi Arabia and Turkey. The Montenegrin international, who joined Atlético in 2015, has been a stalwart in Diego Simeone’s defense, but the club is now prepared to entertain offers to facilitate a squad overhaul.
In addition to Savić, Atlético are also considering the futures of other defenders, including José María Giménez. While the club has no immediate plans to sell Giménez, his strong performances and existing contract make him an attractive prospect for teams in Italy, England, and notably Saudi Arabia, where lucrative offers could tempt both player and club.
As part of their defensive restructuring, Atlético are eyeing potential replacements. Cristian “Cuti” Romero of Tottenham Hotspur has emerged as a primary target, with the Argentine defender expressing interest in playing in La Liga. However, negotiations may prove challenging due to Tottenham’s valuation of the player.
Additionally, the club is monitoring Piero Hincapié of Bayer Leverkusen as an alternative, appreciating his versatility and defensive capabilities. Hincapié’s recent contract extension and estimated €50 million valuation could pose financial challenges for Atlético.
This potential turnover in Atlético’s defense underscores the club’s intent to rejuvenate their squad and adapt to evolving tactical demands ahead of the new season.
Serie A: Managerial Changes and Club Milestones
AC Milan Parts Ways with Sérgio Conceição
AC Milan have sacked manager Sergio Conceição after just six months in charge, marking their third managerial change within a year. Despite winning the Supercoppa Italiana, Conceição’s tenure was marred by inconsistent performances, culminating in an eighth-place Serie A finish and a Coppa Italia final loss to Bologna . Massimiliano Allegri is poised to return to the helm, aiming to restore stability at the club .
This managerial upheaval casts uncertainty over the futures of four English players: Kyle Walker, Fikayo Tomori, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and Tammy Abraham. Walker, who joined on loan in January, may not fit into Allegri’s preferred back-four system, potentially leading to his departure . Tomori, once a defensive mainstay, is reportedly attracting interest from Tottenham Hotspur . Loftus-Cheek’s injury-plagued season raises questions about his role under the new regime, while Abraham’s future is complicated by loan arrangements and the arrival of Santiago Giménez .
As Milan undergo another transition, the club’s direction under Allegri will significantly impact the composition of the squad, especially concerning these English talents.
Allegri back at AC Milan after eleven years
Massimiliano Allegri has officially returned to AC Milan as head coach, marking his second stint with the club after an 11-year hiatus. The 57-year-old Italian tactician previously led the Rossoneri from 2010 to 2014, securing the Serie A title in the 2010–11 season. His reappointment follows the dismissal of Sergio Conceição, who was relieved of his duties after just six months in charge due to underwhelming performances, including an eighth-place finish in Serie A and a Coppa Italia final loss to Bologna .
Allegri has signed a two-year contract with an option for a third, reportedly earning around €5.5 million per season . His return is seen as a strategic move by Milan’s management, aiming to restore stability and competitiveness to a team that has experienced frequent managerial changes and inconsistent results in recent seasons
During his previous tenure, Allegri managed 178 games for Milan, achieving 91 wins, 49 draws, and 38 defeats, with the team scoring 303 goals and conceding 178 . His experience and familiarity with the club are expected to be invaluable as he works alongside new sporting director Igli Tare to revitalize the squad and implement a clear tactical vision.
Allegri’s return has been met with optimism from fans and analysts alike, who hope that his leadership will usher in a new era of success for AC Milan.
Conclusion
This week in European football has been marked by significant transfers, managerial changes, and record-breaking achievements. As clubs prepare for the upcoming season, fans can expect more developments and surprises in the ever-evolving football landscape.
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