Football rumours from the media: Barcelona eye Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata

What the papers say

Chelsea’s Alvaro Morata has been linked with a move to Barcelona, the Daily Mirror reports. The Spanish champions are in need of cover for an injured Luis Suarez and could sign the striker on loan in January, with the possibility of a permanent deal in the summer, the paper says.

Juventus are set to launch a push for Manchester United’s Paul Pogba for less than they sold him for, according to the Sun. The paper claims the Serie A team are looking to make a £72million move for the 25-year-old amid his rocky spell at Old Trafford.

Arsenal have three players on their radar as they look for a new centre-back in January, the Mirror says. Manchester United’s Eric Bailly, Fernando Calero of Real Valladolid and Chelsea’s former England captain Gary Cahill are all said to be on the shortlist. According to the paper, a move for Calero could be the most likely as he has a £10million release clause.

Manchester City remain locked in talks with Real Madrid over 19-year-old Brahim Diaz, according to reports. The Daily Mail says reports in Spain indicate the Premier League club want £20million for the teenager, but the Spanish giants have offered £10million.

Tottenham are braced for renewed interest in Mauricio Pochettino after the side reached the Champions League knockout rounds, the Guardian says. Real Madrid are monitoring his progress, while Manchester United are also admirers, the paper reports.

Social media round-up

Players to watch

Nicolo Barella: Chelsea will reportedly look to outbid Juventus and Inter Milan to land the Cagliari star for 45million euros (£41million). The Mirror says reports in Italy suggest the 21-year-old midfielder is in demand after winning his first senior cap for the country in October.

Raul Jimenez: The 27-year-old has impressed his Wolves teammates while on loan from Benfica this season, and boss Nuno Espirito Santo is now expected to try to sign the striker permanently, the Mirror says.

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