Romano’s Transfer Notebook: Chelsea Chase Lacroix, Man United Eye Kone, Liverpool Circle Barcola

Transfer insider insider has dropped a fresh batch of updates covering Chelsea’s hunt for a centre-back, Manchester United’s midfield plans, Liverpool’s interest in a Paris Saint-Germain winger, and the truth behind Marcus Rashford’s links to Fenerbahce. Starting in San Sebastián, Romano shut down talk of Mikel Oyarzabal leaving Real Sociedad. “There is a release clause in his contract and it is very high, €75 million,” he said. “But it’s not only about the money. Oyarzabal has the same feeling as Nico Williams – he is from San Sebastian, he loves Real Sociedad, he loves living there. So for Oyarzabal it’s €75m or nothing, and at the moment he is very happy.” Over at Chelsea, the club is still pushing to strengthen the backline after France’s World Cup exit. Romano confirmed that Maxence Lacroix remains high on the Blues’ shortlist. “Chelsea are still working behind the scenes on a deal for Maxence Lacroix,” he said. “Contacts have already taken place with the club and with the player’s representatives. Chelsea remain very keen on Lacroix. They want to sign one centre-back, possibly two depending on departures. Pep Chavarria is a completely different story because he is a left-back or left wing-back, but negotiations for him are also continuing. Even if I don’t mention Lacroix every day, you should know the conversations are absolutely ongoing.” Manchester United are far from done in midfield. Romano revealed that United have already had a phone conversation with Manu Kone’s agents and the relationship between the agents and the club is excellent. However, no formal approach has been made to Roma. “As of today, Roma have not received any formal approach. Manchester United have not sent a bid and have not made contact with the club,” Romano said. He also dismissed reports that Kone would cost €80m or €90m. “That’s not true. He is expensive, but he will cost less than that.” The Red Devils have already moved quickly this summer, activating a clause for Youri Tielemans and completing a deal for Andre Santos. Ederson is off the table – “100 per cent off.” On the Liverpool front, Romano addressed Bradley Barcola’s situation after France’s World Cup exit. “Now that the World Cup is over for France, Barcola will go on holiday. From next week there will be conversations between his representatives and Paris Saint-Germain. The player is not untouchable, but any exit depends on the financial proposals PSG receive.” Liverpool remain interested in Barcola, but everything hinges on PSG’s asking price. Arsenal also have Barcola on their shortlist, but Morgan Rogers is their number one target. “Negotiations over a new contract are completely blocked at the moment and that’s why Barcola remains one to watch this summer.” Finally, Romano dismissed speculation linking Marcus Rashford with a move to Fenerbahce. The Manchester United forward is not in talks with the Turkish club and remains focused on his current side.