April 24th 

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The January transfer window is now little more than a distant memory in European football and as such clubs across the continent are already making plans for the summer window. Teams are working tirelessly behind the scenes on identifying targets and figuring out their budgets.

Managers will be constantly assessing their squads with sporting directors and recruitment staff scanning the market for potential deals. A plethora of players will become available in the summer where clubs famously have more money to spend and aren’t as restricted by financial fair play rules. The rumour mill is beginning to pick up pace and we’ve collated some of the biggest current transfer stories. 

Today’s biggest transfer stories 

Kevin de Bruyne is attracting interest from Aston Villa ahead of a potential blockbuster summer move. Manchester City decided against handing the legendary midfielder a new contract and he will depart on a free. De Bruyne has been heavily linked with a move to the MLS but he’s expressed a desire to continue playing at the highest level and Villa could offer him that opportunity. 

Manchester United,  Chelsea and Real Madrid are all battling for the signature of Franco Mastantuono. The 17-year-old is regarded as one of the best young talents in South America and he has a €45m release clause in his contract. 

João Félix faces an uncertain future this summer with AC Milan unwilling to make his loan deal permanent. The Portuguese international won’t be part of Chelsea’s plans and he’s been linked with a return to Benfica but Real Betis are also interested.