May 2nd 

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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 

Liverpool and Arsenal both view Alexander Isak as their primary striker target this summer, according to David Ornstein. The Swedish international has enjoyed an excellent season with Newcastle but the Magpies will need an offer far in excess of €100m to consider a sale. 

Barcelona have joined the race to sign Argentinian wonderkid Franco Mastantuono. The River Plate star has attracted interest from Real Madrid, Chelsea and Man Utd with the winger having a release clause in his contract. 

Meanwhile, Real Madrid are planning to re-sign Nico Paz this summer. Madrid allowed the talented midfield to join Como last summer and he’s been excellent under Cesc Fabregas. But Madrid inserted a buy-back option in his contract and will likely activate it.