With the summer window edging closer by the week, early power plays are already underway across the Premier League and Europe.
A bold approach from Real Madrid has reportedly been knocked back by Arsenal, while Chelsea and Liverpool are battling over a highly-rated rival defender, and Newcastle United are plotting for the future between the posts.
Here are your biggest transfer rumours of the day:
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Arsenal reject Real Madrid approach for Gabriel
Real Madrid are preparing for a busy summer transfer window, particularly in the defensive department, and it appears they have their sights set on Gabriel Magalhaes.
However, according to reports, Arsenal have already rejected an approach from the LaLiga giants, who want to sign the Brazilian centre-back as a replacement for out-of-contract defenders Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba.
The Gunners immediately rebuffed Madrid's enquiry, subsequently displaying a very clear stance that Gabriel is not for sale anytime soon.
Last summer, the 27-year-old titan signed a contract extension to keep him at the Emirates Stadium until 2029, at the very least.
Chelsea lead race to sign Nottingham Forest defender Murillo
Liverpool are reportedly ‘firmly' in the frame to sign Nottingham Forest centre-back Murillo, but it's another Premier League side thought to be leading the race.
That club is Chelsea, who have done the most groundwork to sign the Brazilian defender over the last 12 months. The Blues are said to have long admired his qualities and have even considered bids in recent transfer windows.
It is now believed that an exit from the City Ground is ‘increasingly likely' for Murillo this summer, but only if a substantial offer arrives.
TEAMtalk claims that a bid in the region of £70 million should be enough for Chelsea to land their top defensive target.
Newcastle eye Bart Verbruggen as Nick Pope successor
Meanwhile, over on Tyneside, it appears Newcastle United are eyeing up a move for a goalkeeper this summer.
According to The i Paper, the Magpies are targeting a new shot-stopper in a bid to find a suitable long-term successor to Nick Pope.
The 33-year-old is an influential figure behind the scenes at St James' Park, but the north-east giants are aware that they need to plan for the future, with Brighton and Hove Albion's Bart Verbruggen – who is also wanted by Chelsea and Bayern Munich – among the names on the shortlist.
It remains to be seen whether the Seagulls would even think about selling their clear no.1 between the sticks, and for how much, with the Dutch international currently valued at around £50 million.
