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Yesterday — 3 February 2026Main stream

Not Saliba: Real Madrid eyeing ambitous move for defensive Arsenal linchpin

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By:Ahad Shaukat
3 February 2026 at 15:01

Real Madrid are once again casting a close eye over the Premier League’s emerging talent pool, with reports from Fichajes claiming the Spanish giants are closely monitoring Myles Lewis‑Skelly, one of the most highly rated young prospects currently on Arsenal’s books.

At just 19 years of age, Lewis-Skelly has already established himself as a special young talent within Arsenal’s academy system and first-team environment.

His development has not gone unnoticed beyond England, with Real Madrid now tracking his progress.

Real Madrid interested in Arsenal defender

Under the guidance of club president Florentino Pérez, Real Madrid have doubled down on a strategy focused on securing top young players before they fully establish themselves on the world stage.

This approach has already delivered significant success, with players such as Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga becoming central figures at the Bernabéu.

Lewis-Skelly is viewed in a similar bracket, a technically refined, tactically flexible player who could be moulded into Madrid’s next generation.

Madrid are particularly attentive to situations where young talents may feel blocked or uncertain about their immediate pathway.

Would the Gunners let Lewis-Skelly leave the club?

Myles Lewis-Skelly celebrates after Arsenal's win over Crystal Palace
Myles Lewis-Skelly celebrates after Arsenal’s win over Crystal Palace (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Despite being tied down to a long-term contract at Arsenal, Lewis-Skelly’s current role under Mikel Arteta has inevitably prompted discussion.

While he is highly regarded internally and continues to train regularly with the senior squad, his lack of consistent match minutes has raised questions about how quickly he will be integrated on a regular basis.

That situation is not unusual for young players at title-challenging clubs, but it is precisely the kind of scenario Real Madrid have historically monitored closely.

In the past, the Spanish giants have been linked with Arsenal defender William Saliba.

From Arsenal’s perspective, there is little appetite to entertain any discussion over Lewis-Skelly’s future. Club sources maintain he is seen as a long-term asset and a player capable of playing a major role in the years ahead.

‘One to watch’ – Arsenal given hope of signing £80m midfielder in the summer window

The post Not Saliba: Real Madrid eyeing ambitous move for defensive Arsenal linchpin appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Before yesterdayMain stream

Three main candidates eyed as Pep Guardiola expected to leave Manchester City this summer

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By:Mark Brus
2 February 2026 at 19:03

Manchester City reportedly have Xabi Alonso, Enzo Maresca, and Cesc Fabregas as their three main candidates to replace Pep Guardiola.

According to the Telegraph, it is considered increasingly likely that this will be Guardiola’s final season in charge at the Etihad Stadium.

Some sources at Man City have seemingly denied this, but the Telegraph still suggest there are those who feel the club may already be planning for his potential replacement.

It won’t be easy for anyone to follow in Guardiola’s footsteps, with the Spanish tactician winning six Premier League titles, the Champions League and other major honours during his ten years in English football.

Manchester City looking at Xabi Alonso as potential Pep Guardiola replacement

It seems one name high up on City’s list is former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen manager Alonso, according to the Telegraph.

The 44-year-old was recently sacked by Real, but previously did superb work at Leverkusen, so will surely not be out of work for too long.

Xabi Alonso to Manchester City?
Xabi Alonso to Manchester City? (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Maresca, meanwhile, could also be under consideration and is also available after being sacked by Chelsea a month ago.

The Italian tactician did a decent job at Stamford Bridge and his dismissal perhaps looked a bit harsh, so he could be a good option to consider, as he’s also someone who’s previously worked under Guardiola.

Guardiola record Won Drawn Lost Win %
Barcelona 179 47 21 72.47
Bayern Munich 121 21 19 75.16
Manchester City 400 83 87 70.18

Cesc Fabregas an outsider for the Man City job?

The Telegraph also name an interesting possible candidate in the form of Como boss Fabregas, who is improving his reputation all the time.

The 38-year-old has over-achieved with Como and one imagines he’ll surely land a bigger job at some point, even if it arguably looks a bit soon for him to be taking on a challenge as big as replacing Guardiola.

City fans will probably be leaning towards Alonso at this stage, but also their main wish will surely be for Guardiola to stay for at least a year or two longer if possible.

The post Three main candidates eyed as Pep Guardiola expected to leave Manchester City this summer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Sources: Newcastle United involved in talks with versatile Real Madrid star for late move

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By:Ahad Shaukat
1 February 2026 at 10:21

A potential January exit for Brahim Díaz is emerging as a realistic scenario at Real Madrid, with the player’s limited involvement this season prompting renewed transfer discussions across Europe.

Opportunities have been hard to come by during the current campaign for the Morocco international.

Competition for places remains fierce, and Díaz has struggled to secure a consistent run of starts.

As a result, his representatives have begun exploring options elsewhere, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

Interest is high in Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz

Interest has been particularly strong from the Premier League. Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Aston Villa have all been linked with enquiries, while Como are understood to be monitoring the situation from Italy.

England is viewed as the preferred destination should a winter move materialise, largely due to the promise of regular minutes and a more defined attacking role.

Real Madrid are firmly in the middle of a title race and are understandably reluctant to weaken their squad depth midway through the season.

However, they are not entirely opposed to a sale if their valuation is met. Madrid are seeking a fee in the region of €60 million.

In terms of output, Díaz’s numbers underline his frustrating campaign. Up to this point, the 26-year-old has made 13 appearances in La Liga, registering two assists.

While those statistics only tell part of the story, they do highlight the lack of rhythm that can come with sporadic minutes.

Newcastle United need a versatile player like Díaz

Brahim Diaz in action for Real Madrid
Brahim Diaz in action for Real Madrid (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Since returning from international duty at AFCON, his role has been even more limited, further fuelling speculation that a change of scenery may be in his best interests.

He is a versatile player that Eddie Howe would love at Newcastle United. His ability to play across the front line is something that the Magpies need.

His technical skill set, ability to operate in multiple attacking roles, and experience at the highest level make him an attractive proposition for the clubs looking to sign him.

Real Madrid’s stance will likely depend on timing and offers. Should the right bid arrive, a deal could suit all parties.

Report: Newcastle have made multiple approaches to sign frustrated Barcelona star 

The post Sources: Newcastle United involved in talks with versatile Real Madrid star for late move appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal very serious about signing midfield gem as Man United & Real Madrid circle

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By:Saikat
31 January 2026 at 11:30

Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has been linked with a move away from the club in recent months.

The 18-year-old Frenchman is highly rated across Europe and is expected to become a future star. Naturally, multiple clubs are interested in securing his signature.

Man United and Real Madrid eyeing Ayyoub Bouaddi

According to a report from Footmercato, Manchester United and Real Madrid are in the running to secure his signature. On the other hand, Arsenal have already made their move for the player. They have yet to submit a formal offer, but they seem to be the most serious contender in the race.

It will be interesting to see if Arsenal follow up on their interest with an official proposal. They could use more control and creativity in the middle of the park, and Bouaddi would be an excellent long-term investment for them. He is a young player with great potential, and Arsenal could groom him into a future star. However, competition for his services is intense, and Arsenal will have to act quickly to complete the deal.

Can Arsenal sign Bouaddi?

Ayyoub Bouaddi in action for Lille against Bologna
Ayyoub Bouaddi in action for Lille against Bologna (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

The player recently extended his contract until 2029, and therefore, he is likely to cost a lot of money. It will be interesting to see if Arsenal are willing to pay a premium for him. They have shown that they are willing to invest in the right player, and there is no doubt that they have the finances as well.

The opportunity to join Arsenal could be exciting for the 18-year-old. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and they have a formidable team. He would be able to fight for trophies with them.

On the other hand, Manchester United need midfield depth as well. The 18-year-old could be an excellent acquisition for the Red Devils if they manage to get the deal done. However, they have not been able to fight for major trophies in recent seasons, and Arsenal could be a more attractive destination for the player.

The post Arsenal very serious about signing midfield gem as Man United & Real Madrid circle appeared first on CaughtOffside.

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