Transfer news and rumours LIVE: Sir Jim Ratcliffe hesitant to give Michael Carrick permanent Man Utd job

Sir Jim Ratcliffe hesitant to give Michael Carrick permanent Man Utd job

Despite Manchester United’s resurgence under interim leadership, co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe remains hesitant to commit to appointing Michael Carrick on a permanent basis. Speaking to reporters at the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai, the INEOS chief praised Carrick for doing an "excellent job" but was quick to shut down questions regarding a long-term contract. When pressed by Sky Sports’ Craig Slater on whether the 44-year-old was the "outstanding candidate" to lead the club beyond the summer, Ratcliffe responded firmly with "not going there," signaling a desire to avoid a repeat of past emotional appointments. The club hierarchy is reportedly keen to conduct a thorough evaluation of all available elite managerial options at the end of the 2025-26 campaign, regardless of Carrick’s current popularity.

Manchester United track Aurelien Tchouameni as midfield priority

Manchester United have identified Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni as a primary target for the upcoming summer transfer window. The French international is one of several high-profile options being considered by the Old Trafford scouting department as they look to secure a long-term successor for the departing Casemiro. While interest in Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali has cooled, United are increasingly focused on Tchouameni to provide defensive stability alongside Kobbie Mainoo. The club is also reportedly monitoring Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson as potential alternatives, reflecting a broader strategy to overhaul the engine room ahead of next season.

Tottenham lead race for Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi

Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Bournemouth center-back Marcos Senesi, who is expected to leave the Vitality Stadium as a free agent this summer. Reports suggest that Spurs are in advanced discussions over a deal for the 28-year-old Argentine, viewing him as a vital reinforcement for their defensive line. Although Manchester United and Liverpool have also been linked with the defender, Tottenham’s aggressive pursuit and the promise of immediate first-team involvement have put them in pole position. However, any final agreement may hinge on the club’s ability to guarantee their Premier League status following a challenging domestic run.

Arsenal confident of securing major free transfers for women’s squad

On the women’s football front, Arsenal are nearing the completion of two significant free transfer signings in Ona Batlle and Georgia Stanway. The Gunners are reportedly confident that both players will join the club this summer as part of a strategic squad upgrade. Batlle, a former Manchester United standout, would provide elite experience at full-back, while Stanway’s potential arrival from Bayern Munich would significantly bolster the midfield. These moves highlight Arsenal’s ambition to reclaim their dominance in the Women’s Super League and compete effectively on the European stage in the 2026-27 season.

Bournemouth confirm Marco Rose as new head coach

Bournemouth have officially announced the appointment of Marco Rose as their new head coach, following the departure of Andoni Iraola. The former RB Leipzig manager will take charge of the Cherries this summer on a three-year deal, bringing a wealth of Bundesliga and Champions League experience to the South Coast. The appointment is seen as a major coup for the Bournemouth hierarchy, who believe Rose’s tactical philosophy is perfectly aligned with the club’s long-term vision. The transition will allow Rose a full pre-season to implement his system and prepare the squad for what they hope will be a successful 2026-27 campaign.