Sadio Mane was said to be unavailable during the January transfer window, even if the incoming bid was for $150 million, thus the rumors surrounding Southampton’s Senegalese attackers died down. Then the 23-year-old was late to a team meeting and dropped by manager Ronald Koeman for Saturday’s loss to Norwich City.
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This, of course, means the rumors are alive once again. With Manchester United in desperate need of offensive inspiration, the Daily Mail is reporting Man United are “on red alert” and hopeful of doing a deal this month. If Mane is left out of the squad again next week, something might be up. If he’s late for another meeting, he’s trying to force a move.
According to the Sun, Arsenal, who could probably use another center forward in their quest to capture this season’s Premier League title, are preparing a $62-million bid for Borussia Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. In 23 games this season, Aubameyang has scored 24 goals for Dortmund (all competitions). The Gunners are also interested in Napoli attacking midfielder Lorenzo Insigne, according to ESPNFC.
[ MORE: Friday’s transfer rumors | Thursday | Wednesday | Tuesday ]
The good times for Stoke City might just be coming to an end, as Paris Saint-Germain are said to be interested in Austrian forward Marko Arnautiovic. According to the Mirror, PSG have been monitoring the 26-year-old since he signed for the Potters for $3 million two years ago. PSG could be prepared to offer as much as $12 million.
Also from the Mirror, Swansea City will replace Bafetimbi Gomis and Jonjo Shelvey with Charlie Austin and Patrcik Bamford, should the former head for the Liberty Stadium exit this month. Gomis is said to have interest “from the Middle East,” while Shelvey is being lined up by Crystal Palace and Newcastle United. Austin is in the final year of his contract with Championship side Queens Park Rangers, thus could be available at a discounted price. The capture of Bamford would be a loan after his season-long stay at Palace was cut short earlier this week.