Bayer Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has firmly dismissed sensational speculation linking the German club with a move for veteran striker Karim Benzema. Despite widespread reports suggesting direct contact between both parties following the forward's release in Saudi Arabia, the Rhineland hierarchy have ruled out any late market swoop.
Several high-profile stars have been left out of European squad lists following key deadline decisions. From Liverpool's Federico Chiesa and Real Madrid's Ferland Mendy to Borussia Dortmund captain Emre Can, managers across the continent faced tough selection calls due to injuries and squad limits.
Son Heung-min has opened up about his journey from South Korea to Europe as a teenager. Appearing on The Late Run podcast, the forward recalled moving to Hamburg at 16 and using animated television show SpongeBob SquarePants to learn the German language.
Newcastle United and Aston Villa are reportedly planning to reignite their pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen forward Christian Kofane in January. Both Premier League clubs failed to land the 20-year-old before the deadline but remain keen on securing his signature.
GOAL previews the biggest storylines of U.S. internationals playing abroad this weekend, including if Aaronson and Leeds can keep their strong start going.
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