Spaeri Overview

Real Madrid icon Luis Figo believes Kylian Mbappe remains a primary contender for the 2026 Ballon d’Or following a stellar World Cup campaign. The former Portugal international also addressed the persistent rumours linking Manchester City’s midfield anchor Rodri with a high-profile move to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Chelsea could have a problem on their hands when Enzo Fernandez returns from his post-World Cup holiday - both figuratively and literally. The midfielder and his outspoken agent have made it abundantly clear that he wants to leave Stamford Bridge this summer, and following the ugly conclusion to Argentina's quest for glory in North America, Enzo is now expected to "explore his options". The problem is, he might not have any.

With the World Cup over and pre-season friendlies beginning in earnest over the next week, it feels like the new club season is hurtling towards us at a rather alarming rate. With that in mind, managers are getting increasingly twitchy when it comes to transfers, with coaches around Europe keen to know which players they will and won't be able to call upon over the coming weeks and months.

Manchester United have sensationally refused to drop their interest in Real Madrid powerhouse Aurelien Tchouameni, reportedly making a fresh approach for the French international. Despite the midfielder’s growing importance in the Spanish capital, the Red Devils are determined to lure him to the Premier League as they look to reshape their engine room.