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Fabrizio Romano Transfer News: Real Madrid deal CLOSE, Mainoo CHANGE, West Ham MOVES
Football transfer news expert Fabrizio Romano has delivered the biggest news from around the game, from Real Madrid and Manchester United to West Ham United and Liverpool.
Romano told his YouTube channel that a deal to take Endrick on loan from Real Madrid to Lyon is almost complete. The Brazil international needs playing time, and a move to France should offer him just that.
“Endrick is expected to be one of the first players to move in the January transfer window. The decision is progressing towards a loan move to Lyon,” Romano said. “He believes Lyon are the perfect club for his development and is keen to join immediately at the start of January, rather than waiting until later in the window.
“He has already spoken with Lyon manager Paulo Fonseca and feels strongly connected to the club, partly because of its history and because Karim Benzema – one of his idols – played there. Negotiations are advanced between Lyon, Real Madrid, and Endrick’s representatives.
“The move is only possible as a straight loan, without any option or obligation to buy, because both Real Madrid and Endrick see his long-term future in Madrid. This loan would be purely for game time and development, especially with Endrick eager to impress ahead of potential World Cup selection.
Kobbie Mainoo could leave Manchester United on loan
Another young talent who could make a January switch is Kobbie Mainoo, who continues to push to leave Manchester United. If the Old Trafford club were initially resistant to a deal, their stance appears to be gradually shifting.
Romano explained: “Kobbie Mainoo wanted to go on loan late in the summer transfer window, but Manchester United and Ruben Amorim decided against it at the time. Mainoo is still not playing regularly, so he remains open to a six-month loan move in January, returning to United in the summer.
“The final decision will depend on Manchester United’s plans – whether they bring in another midfielder, and on Amorim’s preference to maintain his current squad. There is interest from West Ham, offering guaranteed minutes, and from Napoli, who are looking for midfield cover after Kevin De Bruyne’s injury.”
Joshua Zirkzee attracts interest from West Ham and Roma
Another Man Utd star who has caught the eye of West Ham is Netherlands international attacker Joshua Zirkzee, who, like Mainoo, is struggling for pitch time.
“Joshua Zirkzee has not formally asked to leave Manchester United, but he is in a similar position to Mainoo – eager for more game time ahead of the World Cup. He remains professional and fully focused in training, and Ruben Amorim is happy with his attitude,” Romano said.
“That said, interest is building. West Ham are looking for a striker and have Zirkzee on their shortlist, while Roma in Italy are also exploring the situation. Whether he moves will depend entirely on United’s approval for a loan deal. If given the green light, England and Italy are likely destinations.”
Lucas Paqueta still open to leaving West Ham
West Ham could lose Brazil international Lucas Paqueta in January, with the former Lyon man seriously considering a departure from the club amid rumours of a switch to Man Utd.
Romano said: “Lucas Paqueta was close to joining Aston Villa in the final days of the summer transfer window before West Ham cancelled the move. For January, his situation remains one to watch.
“There are no negotiations at present between Manchester United and Paqueta, or between United and West Ham. However, Paqueta could be open to a move if the opportunity arises. West Ham will have the final say, as he remains an important player for them.”
Aston Villa working on new contract for Morgan Rogers
Romano says that Aston Villa are close to securing a new contract for Morgan Rogers. The Birmingham side announced a new deal for John McGinn on Wednesday, and now the attacker appears set to follow.
“There will be movement soon regarding Morgan Rogers’ contract. During the summer, both Chelsea and Tottenham showed strong interest, but Aston Villa refused to sell and considered him untouchable,” he stated.
“Villa have recently extended the contracts of Matty Cash and John McGinn, and Rogers is next on the list. Talks with his representatives are ongoing, aiming to improve his salary and secure his future. While negotiations are not yet advanced, a January move is very unlikely – Aston Villa want to keep their key players.”
Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado joins Jorge Mendes’ agency
The situation of Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado could be one to watch, with the youngster changing agents amid rumours that Arsenal are following him.
Romano explains: “Marc Casado has signed with super-agent Jorge Mendes, a move that suggests he’s assessing his future options. There was Premier League interest in the summer, including from Wolves, but Casado and Barcelona agreed he would stay.
“For January, the situation is quiet. Casado is fully focused on Barcelona, but if a strong proposal arrives for both player and club, it will be considered. A move looks more likely in the summer than in January.”
Federico Chiesa determined to stay at Liverpool
Federico Chiesa has proven to be an ace up the sleeve of Liverpool boss Arne Slot at times this season, despite facing increased competition at Anfield.
Romano says the Italy attacker might be frustrated by his lack of game time, but he’s determined to remain at the club and impose himself.
“Federico Chiesa’s position has not changed: he wants to stay at Liverpool, fight for his place, and remain part of Arne Slot’s squad until the end of the season. He would like more game time but understands the situation,” Romano explained.
“Italian clubs will likely try again in January for a loan move, as they did in the summer, but Chiesa’s stance is clear – his focus is on succeeding at Liverpool.”
David Alaba expected to leave Real Madrid in summer 2025
Real Madrid’s veteran defender David Alaba is coming to the end of his stint at the Bernabeu, having been struck down by injuries repeatedly in recent times.
Romano says: “David Alaba and Real Madrid plan to continue together until the end of the season, but the expectation is that he will leave as a free agent next summer.
“There are no talks or negotiations about a new contract. Unless something changes dramatically, Alaba will be among the first players to depart in the summer transfer window. Saudi clubs have previously shown interest, but nothing is concrete for January, and Real Madrid have no plans to alter their defence mid-season.”
Vinicius Junior staying at Real Madrid despite El Clasico incident
On the other hand, Vinicius Junior is set to remain at Real Madrid, despite renewed speculation from Germany that Los Blancos were ready to cut ties with the Brazil star after he caused chaos during and after El Clasico.
“Rumours of a January exit for Vinicius Junior are completely false. After the El Clasico incident with Xabi Alonso, the situation was handled calmly by the club and manager, with Vinicius apologising to staff and team-mates,” Romano said.
“There are no talks or negotiations regarding a move. His full focus remains on the current season with Real Madrid. Discussions over a new contract are ongoing, though nothing is agreed yet.”
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