Bayern Munich want Draxler to replace Ribery as Barca line up move for Ajax's de Ligt

David Cooper - Writer 10:21 08/11/2017
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  • Julian Draxler could yet join Real Madrid before the end of the month.

    The transfer window may not open again until January 1 2018 but that hasn’t put an end to plenty of speculation throughout Europe.

    Here, we take a look at three big stories dominating the headlines on Wednesday.

    Will any of the following deals happen?

    Let us know your thoughts.

    Get in touch via Twitter and Facebook.

    JULIAN DRAXLER

    Bayern Munich are lining up a move for PSG star Julian Draxler to replace Franck Ribery, according to France Football.

    Ribery is out of contract next summer and the Bundesliga giants have yet to make a decision on whether to offer the French winger a new deal for 2018-19.

    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 24-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: 7/10

    VERDICT

    With Arjen Robben and Ribery edging towards the end of their careers, Bayern are in desperate need of refreshing their forward line.

    Bayern have both the financial clout and the attraction of competing for major trophies so this is a deal they could seal.

    Julian Draxler.

    Julian Draxler.

    MATTHIJS DE LIGT

    Barcelona are lining up a move for Ajax star Matthijs de Ligt next summer, according to Mundo Deportivo.

    The paper reports that Barcelona have sent scouts to the Eredivisie to monitor de Ligt as Ernesto Valverde looks to bolster his defensive ranks next summer, with uncertainty over the futures of Javier Mascherano and Thomas Vermaelen.

    The Dutch giants are said to be calm over the situation, with de Ligt only signing a new four-year deal in August.

    RATING: 6/10

    VERDICT

    The 18-year-old centre-back broke into the Ajax first team last season and has been tipped for great heights at the Amsterdam Arena.

    With Barcelona looking to strengthen their defensive options, the highly-rated de Ligt remains one of their top transfer targets.

    LUCAS MOURA

    PSG have offered Chelsea the chance to sign Lucas Moura in January, according to the Daily Mail.

    The arrival of Neymar has done nothing to increase Lucas’ hopes of staying at Parc des Princes and clubs from England are on high alert to land the 25-year-old’s signature.

    Lucas registered 19 goals from 53 appearances last season but never reached the levels many believed upon his arrival in 2012 from Sao Paulo.

    Chelsea have not declined PSG’s offer and are weighing up whether to sign the Brazilian.

    RATING: 6/10

    VERDICT

    After a productive 2016-17 campaign, a move to West London would be a good option for Lucas as Chelsea seek another attack-minded player, to add as back-up to an already sparkling front three, featuring Cesc Fabregas, Alvaro Morata and Eden Hazard.

    Lucas Moura.

    Lucas Moura.

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