Transfer news: Chelsea keeping tabs on Inter striker Lautaro Martinez as Victor Osimhmen alternative

The world of football is always buzzing with some interesting transfer stories, as football clubs begin to prepare for summer business in a bid to strengthen some areas in the squad.

Today we shall be looking a some transfer stories from some of the Europe biggest clubs.

Chelsea monitoring Martinez as backup to Osimhen

Chelsea is ramping up its quest for a new center-forward, with reports suggesting that Lautaro Martinez has become a leading target, as per HITC.

The club's top preference for the striker position remains Napoli's Victor Osimhen, whose price has reportedly dropped from £150 million to approximately £95 million since last summer.

However, if Chelsea is unable to secure Osimhen's services, they could shift their focus to Inter Milan's Martinez. Despite having two years remaining on his current contract, Inter is reportedly keen on extending Martinez's tenure and is willing to make him their highest-paid player. Negotiations for a new contract have been ongoing since last year.

This intensification in Chelsea's pursuit of a new striker suggests a determination to bolster their attacking options, with Martinez emerging as a viable alternative should they fail to land Osimhen. The potential acquisition of either player would undoubtedly add significant firepower to Chelsea's frontline, enhancing their chances of success in domestic and European competitions.

Bayern confirm Alonso interest with Liverpool & Real also keen

Bayern Munich's top official has confirmed the club's interest in Xabi Alonso, the current Bayer Leverkusen coach, amid reports of Liverpool and Real Madrid also pursuing him. Alonso's successful tenure at Leverkusen, which has seen them surge to the top of the Bundesliga with a commanding lead over Bayern, has drawn attention from top clubs seeking managerial talent.

Bayern's honorary president, Uli Hoeness, acknowledged their interest in Alonso but noted the strong competition from Liverpool and Real Madrid. Hoeness stated that clubs like Liverpool, Real Madrid, Leverkusen, and Bayern are actively pursuing Alonso, recognizing his potential as a coach for elite clubs.

With Thomas Tuchel's impending departure from Bayern Munich and Jurgen Klopp's announcement of leaving Liverpool, both clubs are actively seeking replacements. Liverpool's sporting director, Michael Edwards, is reportedly in talks to secure Alonso's services but is also considering other managerial candidates such as Roberto De Zerbi and Franck Haise.

Several Premier League clubs set sights on Rodrygo

Reports from Sport indicate that Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United have all shown interest in Real Madrid winger Rodrygo.

Despite the keen interest from English clubs, Real Madrid appears hesitant to entertain discussions regarding a potential transfer for Rodrygo. However, sources suggest that they might be open to negotiations if presented with a significant offer, speculated to be around €100 million.

Rodrygo recently extended his contract with Los Blancos in November, committing to the club until 2028. While he remains dedicated to Real Madrid, uncertainties arise regarding his future role at the Bernabeu, especially with the arrival of Endrick and the potential signing of Kylian Mbappé.

Bailey set sights on 'Big Six' transfer

Leon Bailey has expressed his desire to join one of the 'big six' clubs in the Premier League, despite recently signing a new contract with Aston Villa.

In an interview with the Let’s Be Honest Podcast, Bailey mentioned his admiration for clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea, referring to them as part of the "big six" in England. He emphasized that playing in the Premier League has always been a dream for him, and he is currently fulfilling that dream with Aston Villa. However, he acknowledged the allure of joining a bigger club, particularly considering the impact it could have on his native Jamaica.

Bailey highlighted the significance of representing Jamaica on such a prominent stage and using his platform to shine a light on his country and its young talents. He expressed the challenges faced by Jamaican players in making it to Europe and sees a potential move to a top Premier League club as an opportunity to further elevate both himself and his homeland.

Arsenal not ready to give up on Jorginho

Football Insider reports that Arsenal is stepping up their efforts to secure midfielder Jorginho to a new contract. Despite an existing clause enabling Arsenal to keep him for another year, the club aims to offer him extended terms that would keep him at the club until 2026. It is believed that the 32-year-old is keen on extending his stay with the North London side. Jorginho has appeared in 28 matches across different competitions this season under the management of Mikel Arteta.