Erik Ten Hag has officially been named the new manager of Bayer Leverkusen, signaling a major shift in the European football coaching scene.
After parting ways with Manchester United, Ten Hag is set to bring his tactical expertise to the Bundesliga as Leverkusen gears up for the upcoming campaign.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid has unveiled Xabi Alonso as their new head coach, ushering in a fresh chapter for the Spanish giants.
In his statement, Alonso shared his excitement, saying, “Hello everyone.
This is a very special day that I will remember for life.
This is a big moment. I can feel the Madridistas’ excitement. We have a great team with excellent players.
I have the feeling that this is the beginning of a new era. I want people to say ‘This is my Madrid’ when they watch us play.”
Alonso’s arrival follows Carlo Ancelotti’s departure to manage Brazil’s national team, and Madrid fans are hopeful that Alonso’s deep understanding of the club and the game will translate into success as a coach.
In transfer news, Liverpool has reportedly tabled an offer exceeding €100 million, plus add-ons, to Bayer Leverkusen in an attempt to sign highly-rated midfielder Florian Wirtz.
The German international has allegedly turned down advances from Manchester City, making Liverpool the frontrunners in the race for his signature.
Liverpool is also eyeing French striker Hugo Ekitike as a potential target to reinforce their attack, especially if Darwin Núñez departs this summer.
At Arsenal, the club is determined to keep Thomas Partey, whose contract is running down.
They are also looking to bolster their midfield options by pursuing Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.
In addition, Arsenal’s sporting director Andrea Berta has opened talks with AC Milan’s Rafael Leão, hoping to secure the Portuguese winger’s pace and creativity for the Premier League side.
Arsenal is also exploring the possibility of re-signing goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, particularly as Real Madrid shows interest in Brentford’s David Raya.
Strengthening their goalkeeping department remains a top priority for the Gunners.
Negotiations with Viktor Gyökeres are progressing, with Arsenal reportedly offering him a contract through 2030, signaling their long-term commitment to the striker.
This effectively rules out any chance of Manchester United pursuing Gyökeres.
Speaking of United, the club has initiated discussions with Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, although Brentford’s €59.5 million valuation could complicate a potential deal.
In Italy, Napoli is making a strong push to sign Kevin De Bruyne following his exit from Manchester City.
Napoli’s sporting director, Giovanni Manna, confirmed that talks have been ongoing for months and that they are nearing the completion of the deal.
If successful, De Bruyne would bring his elite playmaking ability to Serie A.
In managerial news, Tottenham assistant Ryan Mason is the top candidate to become West Bromwich Albion’s new manager, marking what could be his first full-time managerial role.
Aston Villa is also working to strengthen their squad, engaging in talks with young goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Joan Garcia has expressed no interest in joining Barcelona, despite transfer rumors.
Jobe Bellingham, one of Europe’s most promising talents, is set to visit Eintracht Frankfurt to discuss a potential move from Sunderland.
Inter Milan coach Simone Inzaghi has acknowledged interest from Italian and Saudi clubs, including Al-Hilal, but has reaffirmed his focus on the upcoming final and his loyalty to Inter.
He stated that discussions with the club’s board will take place after the final to determine the path forward.
Elsewhere, Luka Modric is preparing to leave Real Madrid after a glittering 13-year career that saw him win 28 trophies, leaving as the club’s most decorated player.
Lastly, brothers Alexis and Kevin Mac Allister have both clinched league titles this season—Alexis with Liverpool in the Premier League and Kevin with Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium—a rare family achievement in professional football.
As the transfer window heats up, European clubs are moving swiftly to finalize signings and managerial appointments, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive new season.
The changes at Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen, coupled with key transfer battles involving players like Wirtz, Leão, and De Bruyne, ensure a thrilling summer ahead.
