Transfer rumour roundup: Manchester United bid for another Bruno; Mac Allister wanted in Madrid

Manchester United are pressing ahead with plans to pair Bruno Fernandes with a second midfield general named Bruno, as informal approaches have been made to Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes, according to Spanish outlet AS. Newcastle hierarchy maintain that the 26-year-old is not for sale, yet the prospect of missing out on next season’s Champions League could weaken their stance. Should Guimaraes arrive, out-of-favour midfielder Mason Mount is expected to depart. Mount, signed from Chelsea for £55 million in 2023, has struggled with persistent injuries and is now free to listen to offers. Aston Villa are poised to provide an escape route, though any bid is anticipated to fall well short of the original outlay.

Across the continent, Real Madrid continue to circle Liverpool’s squad. After luring Trent Alexander-Arnold last summer and persistently monitoring defender Ibrahima Konate, the Bernabeu board have now elevated Alexis Mac Allister to the top of their wish-list. TEAMtalk reports that the Argentine World Cup winner is “fast becoming” a primary target for the Spanish giants ahead of the next window.

While Real Madrid look to reinforce, they are determined to retain Vinicius Junior. The Brazilian winger has rediscovered peak form following a mid-season rift with former coach Xabi Alonso and is now thriving under Alvaro Arbeloa. Fresh contract discussions are underway, with Saudi Arabian interest expected to be rejected.

Bayern Munich, meanwhile, are moving to secure their own star asset. Fabrizio Romano reveals that the Bundesliga champions are preparing a lucrative extension for Harry Kane, whose remarkable tally of 130 goals in 133 games has convinced the club to improve terms and fend off long-term admirers Barcelona.