Real Madrid agree deal for Argentinian star, Lionel Messi forbids the signing of Jordi Alba's replacement and more: Transfer Roundup, 21 February 2019

Sergio Ramos and co. have found a gem
Sergio Ramos and co. have found a gem

Hello and welcome to Sportskeeda's Daily Transfer Roundup. We have some exciting transfer news in store for you today. So let's dive right in and take a look at the top transfer news, rumours and updates of the day.


Also See: La Liga Transfer News


Manchester United receive major boost in Kalidou Koulibaly's pursuit

Manchester United have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of Napoli centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly after the player's agent revealed that he will listen to offers that would hand the Senegalese international a chance to play on an 'important stage', according to Metro (courtesy: Radio Kiss Kiss).

Koulibaly's agent Bruno Satin told Radio Kiss Kiss,

‘Koulibaly at Juventus? He’s very close to Napoli, the club and above all to the city,’
‘I don’t think he would ever betray them to go to Juventus, but let’s not forget that they are professional players.
‘If you have the chance to play on important stages, you listen, even if I repeat he is very close to Napoli.’

Chelsea make contact with Icardi's agent over potential move

Icardi has been sidelined at Inter
Icardi has been sidelined at Inter

Chelsea have made contact with Wanda Nara, Mauro Icardi's wife and agent over a potential move, according to Sport Mediaset. Chelsea are looking to capitalize on Icardi's current situation as the Argentine international was recently stripped of his captaincy and continuously left out of the squad over a reported disagreement with regards to a new contract.

Real Madrid, Napoli and Juventus are also in the hunt for the disgruntled striker and a bidding war is expected to break out soon. However, whether or not Chelsea will pursue him actively is contingent on Maurizio Sarri's fate and their Champions League qualification.

Lionel Messi blocks the transfer of Jordi Alba's replacement

Messi wants Jordi Alba to continue at Barcelona
Messi wants Jordi Alba to continue at Barcelona

Lionel Messi does not want to see the back of his left-wing partner and good friend Jordi Alba from the Camp Nou. With the Spanish left-back's contract situation yet to be sorted out, Barcelona have been on the lookout for a worthy replacement. However, as per latest reports from Spain, Messi has asked Barcelona not to sign Rayo Vallecano defender Alex Moreno.

Messi wants Alba to continue with his old job with Juan Miranda as his deputy. Alex Moreno has been turning heads around Spain and has been one of Vallecano's standout players. However, Messi wants the Barcelona board to stick with the 29-year-old Jordi Alba and get him tied down with a new contract.

Real Madrid close the signing of Exequiel Palacios

Madrid bound
Madrid bound

Real Madrid have agreed personal terms with 20-year-old Argentinian Exequiel Palacios, according to reports in Spain. The club reached an agreement with the player after Florentino Perez travelled specifically to speak with him.

The report claims that Real Madrid have already reached an agreement with River Plate as well and the Blancos will pay €20 million as the transfer fee. Palacios will join Real Madrid in the summer in a 6-year deal.

Palacios will be tasked with replacing Luka Modric and is expected to become a central part of the club's midfield in the coming years.

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