Rumour Reel: Man Utd battle rivals Chelsea and Man City for Bakayoko signing
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Coral’s rumour reel
With the January transfer window now open, managers are swiftly aiming to sort some business ahead of the remainder of the current campaign.
This includes Manchester United, with the Red Devils looking to add a new midfielder to their respective squad, but face strong competition from Chelsea and Manchester City to do so. Meanwhile, Southampton are in search of a defensive acquisition too.
So, read on to find out who is going where in Coral’s rumour reel for January 9th…
Man Utd chase Bakayoko signing
Old Trafford boss Jose Mourinho is keen on adding Monaco midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko to his ranks in the coming weeks, but the Portuguese tactician is facing competition for his services from former club Chelsea and Man City.
The Red Devils have identified the France Under-21 international talent as a potential boost to their central areas, though they have become involved in a three-way tussle for his signature in the current transfer window.
Bakayoko has quickly established himself as one of the most promising holding midfielders in Europe with his stand-out performances for his current south of France outfit, despite still being just 22 years of age.
Strong in the tackle and comfortable in possession, the Frenchman is seen by Mourinho as an ideal midfield maestro to bolster his side for the coming seasons, though Pep Guardiola and Antonio Conte are hoping to scupper any potential €25m.
Monaco have a recent history of selling to Man Utd, though, having offloaded Bakayoko’s compatriot Anthony Martial for €80m in 2015 and the France international forward could be a helpful boost to Mourinho securing his latest target.
Southampton targeting Sakho
In the south coast, Southampton are also aiming to add to their squad in the January market, with a defensive acquisition top of their shopping list after skipper Jose Fonte recently handed in a transfer request.
The Saints were rocked by the news that their captain has outlined intentions to leave St Mary’s and manager Claude Puel is swiftly looking to add a replacement for his imminently departing centre back.
Liverpool’s Mamadou Sakho is therefore regarded as a key target and suitable replacement in this window, but the Saints have to battle Turkish giants Galatasaray for the 26-year-old France international.
Sakho has fallen out of favour under Jurgen Klopp at Anfield and is being offered a fresh start on the south coast, while Southampton are also attempting to retain the services of star man and former Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk.
