Transfer Roundup: Schjelderup Pushes for Benfica Exit, Chelsea Grow Frustrated with Chavarria Talks

Andreas Schjelderup is pushing for a move away from Benfica this summer. The Norway international, who turned heads with his performances at the World Cup, has yet to respond to the club’s contract extension offer with two years remaining on his current deal. Benfica have set a €40 million floor for negotiations, confident in their position thanks to a €100 million release clause. Chelsea, meanwhile, are growing impatient in their pursuit of Rayo Vallecano left-back Pep Chavarria. New manager Xabi Alonso has made the 28-year-old a priority, but Chelsea believe Rayo have shifted the goalposts — initially asking for €15 million before raising the demand to €25 million. The Blues are prepared to walk away if the gap cannot be closed. Manchester United are reassessing their midfield options after pulling out of a €45 million deal for an unnamed Brazilian star due to a knee concern. The club still plans to bring in a third midfielder alongside their earlier signings. Alex Scott is among the names on the shortlist, while United have dropped their pursuit of another target who recently signed a new contract. Roma are stepping up their efforts to sign Chelsea attacker Alejandro Garnacho, with an opening bid of €5 million loan fee plus a €35 million purchase option. The Serie A side are also in talks with Chelsea’s ownership over a winger, having submitted a €30 million offer. Another unnamed star remains a shared target for Roma, Chelsea, and Manchester United. Real Madrid youngster Victor Valdepenas is set to join an unnamed Serie A club for €8 million. The deal includes a 50% sell-on clause and a buy-back option for Madrid. Valdepenas had previously been linked with Arsenal and another club. In other rumours: Arsenal’s pursuit of an unnamed player has become more complicated after Youri Tielemans moved to Manchester United. A striker has no interest in England or France. An unnamed midfielder is being targeted by a new club. Talks for a Chelsea player have collapsed after the Blues refused to lower their asking price. Atletico Madrid are keen on a midfielder but face resistance. A defender has opened the door to a Leeds move. Mikel Arteta wants to keep a player but won’t block an exit. A versatile defender is attracting Premier League interest. Newcastle insist there is no price tag for an unnamed star who is not for sale.