Mahrez released by Algeria to complete transfer amid Barcelona links as Arsenal continue to chase Draxler

David Cooper - Writer 09:27 31/08/2017
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  • Another day in football, another wave of transfer rumours to keep up on. Take a look at the most recent names and gossip being floated around in the media.

    Will any of the following deals happen?

    Let us know your thoughts by getting in touch via Twitter and Facebook.

    RIYAD MAHREZ

    Barcelona have opened talks with Leicester winger Riyad Mahrez, according to  AS.

    The Catalan giants are still hopeful of signing Philippe Coutinho, but they have now identified Mahrez as an alternative option.

    The Algerian has been linked with a host of clubs over the summer, and is likely to cost around €50 million after Roma had a series of bids rejected for the Foxes star.

    The likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea are also reported to be interested in Mahrez, who was PFA Player of the Year in 2016 after playing a key role in Leicester’s shock Premier League title win that season.

    RATING: 6/10

    SPORT360 VERDICT

    The 26-year-old expressed his desire to leave the King Power Stadium in May, and a move to Barcelona could be a last chance saloon for him this transfer window.

    Although £50 million is an expensive figure to meet, it may be a fee the Blaugrana are willing to pay as Ernesto Valverde looks to bolster his attacking options.

    Riyad Mahrez.

    Riyad Mahrez.

    JULIAN DRAXLER

    Arsenal have set their sights on PSG forward Julian Draxler and will not sell Alexis Sanchez unless the German signs for the North London club, reports the Mirror.

    The Gunners are bracing themselves for a significant bid from Manchester City, as Pep Guardiola continues to lure the Chilean to the Etihad Stadium.

    The German wide-man only moved to the French capital in a deal worth £40million from Schalke in January, but is now surplus to requirements after Neymar’s arrival to the club.

    The 23-year-old, who is still regarded as one of the premier young talents in world football, has no shortage of offers with Monaco and Liverpool said to be interested in securing his services.

    RATING: 5/10

    SPORT360 VERDICT

    With the futures of Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez in doubt, Arsenal are in desperate need of refreshing their attacking options.

    Arsenal have the financial clout and the attraction of competing for trophies so this is a deal they could seal – if Sanchez is to move north to Manchester.

    Julian Draxler.

    Julian Draxler.

     

    RENATO SANCHEZ

    Swansea City are close to sealing a loan deal for Bayern Munich youngster Renato Sanches, according to the Guardian.

    Swansea have made significant progress in talks with Sanches’ representatives and that the deal could be concluded later today.

    Sanches’ signing would represent a significant coup for Swansea and their head coach Paul Clement, who worked with the Portugal midfielder in his role as Bayern assistant coach last season.

    RATING: 7/10

    SPORT360 VERDICT

    As the summer has gone on, it has seemed increasingly likely that Sanches will be leaving Bayern, with his destination the only source of intrigue.

    Ancelotti sanctioned Sanches going out on loan and Chelsea, Juventus, Liverpool and Monaco were all linked with the Lisbon-born player.

    However, a move to the Liberty Stadium would be ideal for the 23-year-old as it gives him the chance to become a key player and leader in a developing team.

    Renato Sanches.

    Renato Sanches.

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