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Fabrizio Romano Transfer News: Slot under pressure, Sesko injury fallout, Alvarez latest
Football transfer news insider Fabrizio Romano has delivered the latest on the day’s big rumours, including updates from Liverpool, Manchester United and Atletico Madrid.
Liverpool back Arne Slot amid poor Premier League form
While Liverpool manager Arne Slot is coming under pressure from certain fans, the Anfield boss retains the confidence of the board, Romano says.
“Liverpool are going through a really difficult moment in the Premier League, especially compared to their Champions League form, where they’ve beaten Real Madrid and played a very good game at Anfield.
“Despite recent a win against Aston Villa, their 3–0 defeat to Manchester City showed that things are still complicated for the Reds. It’s already their fifth defeat in the last six games, and they’ve now lost more matches than they did in the entire previous Premier League season – despite spending significant money in the summer.
“But my information is very clear – Liverpool keep backing Arne Slot. The club believes he’s the right man to fix the situation and lead this new-look team after all the summer changes. There have been no contacts with other managers or agents. The owners, directors, and players are all united behind Slot.
“Liverpool are also continuing work on contracts. They’re in contact with the agents of Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch, and talks are ongoing with Ibrahima Konaté, whose deal expires in 2026. It’s not an urgent matter, but progress is being made.”
Manchester United await Benjamin Sesko injury update
Man Utd are confident that Benjamin Sesko’s injury is not a serious problem that will keep him out for a prolonged period. This will have implications in the transfer market for the Red Devils.
Romano says: “My information is that internally, the feeling is positive – it’s not going to be a very long-term injury, not six, seven or eight months. It will take time, of course, but it’s not something that will keep him out for the season.
“That’s significant because Ruben Amorim said after the Tottenham game that the injury, along with AFCON absences, could affect United’s January transfer plans. But with this latest assessment, the situation looks more manageable.
“There were some reports suggesting Rasmus Hojlund could be recalled from Napoli to cover Sesko’s injury – but this is not true.
“There is no recall clause in his loan contract, and Hojlund fully considers himself a Napoli player. In fact, Napoli have an obligation to buy for around €50 million, and Manchester United are not planning for his return.”
Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo could stay amid injury concerns
Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim is ready to anger two of his players by refusing transfer requests.
Romano revealed: “Regarding Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo, Amorim doesn’t want them to leave in January. With AFCON and Sesko’s injury, United believe they’ll need both players for squad depth.
“Zirkzee, in particular, has drawn early interest from West Ham, Roma, and other clubs. But United will wait to see the full recovery timeline for Sesko before making a decision. Zirkzee is well regarded internally – he can play as a striker or just behind the forwards – and United want to keep him involved.”
Jadon Sancho likely to leave Manchester United in 2026
While United are planning for Zirkzee and Mainoo, that is not the case with Jadon Sancho.
“Jadon Sancho, currently on loan at Aston Villa, has a contract with Manchester United until 2026, with an option to extend for one more year,” Romano confirmed.
“However, it’s very likely he’ll leave on a free transfer in 2026 rather than extending. The club doesn’t see sense in renewing on such a high salary, especially since there were no permanent offers for him in the summer – only loan proposals from Italy, Turkey, and England. Internally, United are preparing for Sancho’s exit.”
Julian Alvarez focused on Atletico Madrid despite transfer rumours
On the case of Julian Alvarez, who has been linked with PSG and Barcelona, Romano said: “He gave an interview to L’Équipe, where he confirmed he’s happy at Atletico Madrid and fully focused on this season.
“He acknowledged that Paris Saint-Germain wanted him before he joined Atletico and that he’s seen stories in Spain linking him with Barcelona, but there’s nothing concrete.
“Alvarez’s focus is entirely on winning titles with Atletico and preparing for the World Cup. While his future remains open beyond this season, he’s not entertaining any talks for now. That’s a topic for summer 2026 or later.”
Summary
- Liverpool fully back Arne Slot despite poor Premier League form.
- Talks continue over new contracts for Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch and Ibrahima Konaté.
- Benjamin Sesko’s injury at Manchester United is not expected to be long term.
- No recall clause for Rasmus Hojlund – Napoli have an obligation to buy.
- Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo likely to stay until Sesko’s recovery is clear.
- Jadon Sancho expected to leave Manchester United on a free transfer in 2026.
- Julian Alvarez focused on Atletico Madrid and not considering other clubs for now.