Football rumours from the media

What the papers say

Tottenham have been dealt a blow in their hunt for a new manager, with the Independent reporting Bayern Munich have opened talks to hire RB Leipzig’s Julian Nagelsmann. Spurs bosses had been said to have earmarked the 33-year-old as an ideal replacement for Jose Mourinho, but they may now need to turn their attention elsewhere.

Their solution may actually be closer to home, with Leicester’s Brendan Rodgers also being linked with the role. The Daily Star, citing 90min, says Rodgers is high on Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy’s radar, but Leicester are believed to be willing to match or better any potential offer in order to keep the Northern Irishman at the King Power Stadium.

Elsewhere, the fine form of on-loan Newcastle midfielder Joe Willock has reportedly created a bit of a headache for his parent club Arsenal. According to the Daily Star, Willock’s stock has soared so much at St James’ Park that the Magpies are now unlikely to be able to afford a permanent move. This, it is claimed, creates a dilemma for the Gunners, who will have to decide whether to try and cash in this summer or bring him back into the fold.

The Sun reports Manchester City have started talks with Red Star Belgrade over the future of 18-year-old forward Andrija Radulovic, after a year of keeping tabs on his development.

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Players to watch

Raphael Varane: Chelsea have taken the lead in the chase for the Real Madrid defender, according to Mundo Deportivo.

Cesar Azpilicueta: The Blues defender is on Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone’s wishlist, reports Spanish website El Gol.