Liverpool track AZ Alkmaar's Kees Smit as Spurs lead race for Brazilian defender
Liverpool are among several Premier League clubs monitoring Netherlands midfielder Kees Smit, valued at £51.5m, while Monaco prepare to sell striker Folarin Balogun in January.
Liverpool have been watching Netherlands midfielder Kees Smit, valued at around £51.5m, according to transfer gossip circulating this weekend. The 20-year-old was observed by Liverpool scouts when his club AZ Alkmaar faced Sunderland in the Europa League this week. Chelsea, Tottenham, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa are also said to be tracking the player.
Tottenham are reportedly leading the chase for 19-year-old Brazilian defender Arthur Dias, who plays for Athletico Paranaense and carries a valuation of 30m euros. Newcastle, Nottingham Forest and Brentford are also keeping an eye on him.
Monaco have confirmed they intend to sell United States striker Folarin Balogun in January, after the 25-year-old had a late change of heart over a proposed move to Everton on transfer deadline day.
Other gossip
Manchester United continue to monitor 24-year-old Everton and England defender Jarrad Branthwaite. Several European clubs are said to be watching Chelsea's 20-year-old defender Josh Acheampong. Monaco have also indicated a January departure could be possible for 22-year-old Senegalese midfielder Lamine Camara, who has attracted interest from Liverpool and Chelsea.
Real Madrid are reportedly set to pursue 17-year-old Moroccan midfielder Abdellah Ouazane of Ajax. Newcastle are expected to renew interest in Djurgarden's 22-year-old Norwegian midfielder Bo Hegland, while Arsenal, Brighton and Aston Villa are tracking 17-year-old Sturm Graz midfielder Luca Weinhandl, valued at £20m.
Tottenham are considering signing free agent Mauro Icardi following his exit from Galatasaray, though the 33-year-old Argentine could not be registered until January. Manchester City and Liverpool are interested in Germany midfielder Felix Nmecha, with Borussia Dortmund expected to demand 80-90m euros. Chelsea have also joined the race for 15-year-old Gambia youth international Adama Jeng of Norwegian club Tromso.
