Transfer Talk: Flamengo close to signing free agent Martial

The transfer deadline may have passed across Europe’s top five leagues, but there’s still work to be done this summer. And with just four months to go until the January transfer window opens, the rumours continue to swirl! Transfer Talk brings you the latest news, and you can check out our round-up of all the major deals that have been completed.

HEADLINE: Martial close to joining Flamengo

Progress has been made between Flamengo and the representatives of the former Manchester United striker Antoine Martial on the subject of negotiations regarding a free transfer, reports Nicolo Schira.

The 28-year-old, who became a free agent after his contract at Old Trafford expired in the summer, is understood to have received offers from three different clubs but it was the Brazilian Serie A side who made the best offer.

Fabrizio Romano reported on Thursday that Martial has been identified as a replacement for injured Flamengo forward Pedro, and it appears talks are underway as they look to bolster their attack.

Martial started five times in the Premier League last season and has also recently been linked with Galatasaray and AEK Athens.

GOSSIP ON PAPER

– Liverpool want to give a central defender Virgil van Dijk According to Football Insider, manager Arne Slot sees the 33-year-old as a key part of his plans, and initial discussions have already taken place with his representatives. He entered the final 12 months of his contract this summer and is free to sign a pre-contract agreement with a club outside the Premier League from January.

– Central defender of Bayer Leverkusen Jonathan Tah Tah has made his intention to leave the club clear when his contract expires next summer. In an interview with the Süddeutsche Zeitung, the 28-year-old said: “My decision is as clear as ever. I will not extend my contract.” Tah, who starred for Germany at the European Championship, was linked with Barcelona over the summer.

– Arsenal interested in Brentford winger Bryan MbeumoThe 25-year-old is said to have impressed the Gunners’ scouts, who considered signing him before the summer transfer window closed. Mbeumo has made an impressive start to the season for the Bees, scoring three goals in three games, including a brace in the 3-1 win over Southampton.

– Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovacic could consider leaving the Etihad Stadium, Football Insider reports. The return of Ilkay Gündogan There appear to be concerns about the amount of game time he will receive under Pep Guardiola, which could see him seek a move when the January transfer window opens. He has recently been linked with Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr.

– Two Premier League clubs keeping tabs on Swansea City midfielder Azeem AbdulaiTeam Talk reports. West Ham United and Bournemouth are both said to be interested in the 21-year-old, who has impressed in the EFL Championship this season with three appearances in total. Abdulai has four caps for Scotland at Under-21 level.