Rumour reel: twist in Mbappe story

Ross Barkley wants a move away from Everton, and The Toffees haven’t made a song and dance about keeping him either. It was refreshing to see boss Ronald Koeman offer an improved deal and tell the player – take it or leave it. The club will not be held to ransom, and it’s little wonder, as they now have more than enough cover for the season ahead, ready to fight on all fronts. There has not been the rush to buy Barkley that many thought, and the player himself probably imagined himself at the likes of Manchester United or Arsenal by now, not stuck at Goodison with his options limited. Some fans expected Barkley to stay and fight for his place in the team, but Koeman told reporters the Englishman wants a new challenge, and will be leaving before the end of the transfer window.

Man Utd to battle Milan for Sanches

Manchester United are keen on adding Bayern Munich’s Renato Sanches, with Jose Mourinho seemingly happy to meet the Bundesliga side’s £40+ asking price, but The Red Devils are not the only side in the hunt for the talented 19-year-old. AC Milan will offer the Portuguese wonderkid an option. Munich have confirmed the player, capped a dozen times by his country so far, wants to leave the Allianz Arena to find a new challenge and get more game time, so it now looks a straight choice between life in England or Italy. Sections of the Italian press say Milan have offered a four-year deal. We’ll let you know how that one pans out.

We update our rumour reel every day with the latest transfer news