Euro Paper Talk: Transfer hurdle cleared as Liverpool, Spurs move in for USA star
Liverpool and Tottenham have eyes on a rising American star, while Leeds are battling two Premier League sides for a midfielder – both in all the latest Euro Paper Talk.
REDS, SPURS EYE USA STAR
Liverpool and Tottenham have registered interest in Schalke striker Matthew Hoppe, according to a report.
Recent speculation (via The Athletic) has suggested that the Reds will target a new forward signing this summer, regardless of where they finish in the Premier League table.
What’s more, doubt has arisen over Divock Origi’s future, the Belgian linked with Borussia Dortmund.
Tottenham, meanwhile, brought in Carlos Vinicius on loan from Benfica last summer to support Harry Kane. However, it remains unclear if they plan to exercise their purchase option in his contract.
Nevertheless, Hoppe has emerged on both clubs’ radars as a potential signing in the upcoming transfer window.
The American only signed a new contract until 2023 in February, but Transfermarkt reports that there is a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ between the player and the club.
Some Liverpool players have not stood up
Graeme Souness says it's hard to believe that how far Liverpool have fallen since winning the title last season.
That agreement would allow Hoppe to leave if a suitable bid came in for the player, despite his contractual situation.
Schalke have made the promise amid their likely relegation from the Bundesliga and the financial burden that will have on the club.
As for Hoppe’s fee, Schalke would want between €7million (£6million) and €10million (£8.5million) for him.
The 20-year-old has proved a shining light for Schakle amid their otherwise dismal season, netting six goals and assisting another.
Dutch giants Ajax have also shown interest in Hoppe, but have yet to make an official offer.
Give our social media channels a follow – we’re on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
AND THE REST FROM EURO PAPER TALK
Leeds, Leicester and Arsenal have eyes on Feyenoord star Orkun Kokcu ahead of this summer’s transfer window. However, Sevilla chief Monchi also wants to sign the midfielder. (Sport)
Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger wants to delay contract extension talks until after Euro 2020. That is despite his club wanting to open discussions before the tournament. (Kicker)
Meanwhile, Chelsea left-back Marcos Alonso says that it is clear that ex-Blues boss Frank Lampard “didn’t quite trust” him. (El Pais)
Holstein Kiel midfielder Jae-sung Lee has not given up hope of a move to the Premier League. Indeed, Crystal Palace failed with a move in January. (Kicker)
BARCA BLOW IN HAALAND PURSUIT
Mino Raiola’s role as Erling Haaland’s agent makes a move to Barcelona for his client unlikely. Indeed, Raiola would look for the most money from a deal, with Barcelona struggling for funds. (Mundo Deportivo)
Barca legend Xavi will have a clause in his new managerial contract with Al-Sadd allowing him to move back to Camp Nou at any point. (Sport)
Everton and Newcastle have interest in Stuttgart striker Sasa Kalajdzic. West Ham have also been linked. (TuttoJuve)
The Hammers are also keen on Inter midfielder Matias Vecino, who could come at a decent price. (Calciomercato)
SPURS BOOST FOR DEFENDER RAID
Jannick Vestergaard’s contractual situation has given Tottenham a boost in the race to sign the Southampton defender. The Dane’s contract runs out next year, so this summer is the Saints’ last chance to get a decent fee. (BT)
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has named Robert Lewandowski as the best player he has ever coached. (Bild)
MADRID FIND VAZQUEZ SUCCESSOR
Real Madrid will move for Levante’s Jorge de Frutos if Lucas Vazquez leaves at the end of the season. (Marca)
New Barcelona president Joan Laporta plans to convince Lionel Messi to stay with a lifetime contract. (Mundo Deportivo)
Former Paris Saint-Germain winger Jerome Rothen says that Kylian Mbappe is hiding something over his long-term future. (Le Parisien)
Inter fear a coronavirus outbreak in their ranks after positive tests for Danilo D’Ambrosio and Samir Handanovic. (Corrierre dello Sport)
Lazio boss Simone Inzaghi says that he is proud of his side’s Champions League journey after their last 16 defeat to Bayern Munich. (Sky Italia)