Updated: 1 May 2026 17:32 BST | 5 min read
Richard Rios, Rumours
© IMAGO
FootballTransfers runs through the biggest rumours from 2 May, including the latest updates on Richard Rios, Joao Pedro and Adam Wharton.
Man Utd in Rios battle
Man Utd are involved in a three-club battle to sign Benfica midfielder Richard Rios, as per O Jogo (via Sport Witness).
The Colombia international is attracting widespread attention ahead of the summer transfer window, and he is no stranger to the Red Devils. Rios was already on their radar when he was starring for Palmeiras in Brazil.
Now, Napoli and Fulham are also interested in signing him. Unlike Man Utd and the Cottagers, Napoli are said to have already held talks over a deal, though there is still a major gap in valuation between the two clubs.
Some reports have suggested that €45 million could be enough to sign Rios, while others have pointed to his €100m release clause because of Benfica's reluctance to lose him after just one year. What's clear, though, is that the Lisbon side hope that he can boost his value with a good World Cup.
Chelsea want €100m for Pedro
Joao Pedro
© IMAGO - Joao Pedro
Chelsea have made it clear that they will not entertain offers below €100m for Joao Pedro this summer, ESPN Brazil states.
The Blues have no intention of sanctioning his exit after one season and will only engage with suitors if their valuation is met, which appears unlikely at this stage.
Barcelona have been linked with a move for Pedro as a cheaper alternative to Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, but Chelsea's hands-off warning has been emphatic. The Catalans will not be able to match the Blues' asking price.
Liverpool in advanced Wharton talks
Liverpool are in "advanced talks" to sign Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, Matteo Moretto reports.
The Reds are stepping up their planning for the summer and are looking to get a head start on transfers. Discussions with Wharton are progressing well, and it is expected that he will become Palace's next big-money sale.
The England midfielder is believed to be keen to join a Champions League club this summer. By accelerating their pursuit of Wharton, Liverpool have "preempted" a move from long-time admirers Real Madrid.
Adam Wharton
© IMAGO - Adam Wharton
Kounde on the move?
According to L'Equipe, Barcelona boss Hansi Flick wants to keep Jules Kounde, who is once again being linked with a Premier League transfer.
The right-back is being scouted by Chelsea and Man City, which has resulted in the Catalan press suggesting that he could be on the move this summer. Barcelona need a major sale to create Financial Fair Play headroom.
However, nothing is guaranteed at this stage. The French outlet admits that Kounde is not untouchable like Pedri or Lamine Yamal, but it would take a sizeable offer to prise the Frenchman away from Barcelona.
Gordon transfer likely
Anthony Gordon is likely to leave Newcastle this summer, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed.
The England winger is being chased by Arsenal, Chelsea and especially Bayern Munich. Newcastle have resigned themselves to losing the 25-year-old, but they want a large fee, potentially as high as €92m.
"Another name to watch is Anthony Gordon. He has very serious chances of leaving Newcastle United in the summer transfer window," Romano says. "Much will depend on the price tag set by Newcastle. However, according to my information, there is a strong possibility that Gordon will leave."
More transfer rumours
Mohamed Salah
© IMAGO - Mohamed Salah
Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah is interested in a move to Major League Soccer or the Saudi Pro League this summer. (TEAMtalk)
Several clubs in Serie A are in talks with the representatives of PSG striker Goncalo Ramos. (Gianluca di Marzio)
Borussia Dortmund are keeping a close eye on Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Garcia. (Sky Germany)
Arsenal director Andrea Berta is keen to explore a summer move for Galatasaray winger Baris Alper Yilmaz after watching him in the flesh last weekend. (Sabah)
Two unnamed Premier League clubs are interested in €40m-rated AS Roma winger Matias Soule. (Nicolo Schira)
Aston Villa, Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest are in talks to sign Rangers midfielder Bailey Rice. (TEAMtalk)
Micky van de Ven is keen to leave Tottenham regardless of the outcome of their relegation battle. (CaughtOffside)
AC Milan are exploring a move for Romelu Lukaku, who is expected to leave Napoli after being reprimanded for going AWOL. (Sport Mediaset)
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