Fabrizio Romano’s Here We Go notes: Christopher Nkunku for Chelsea, Sergio Busquets and MLS, and more

The transfer market never stops, not even in October. Here’s what Europe’s biggest teams are up to during a quiet, but still very active part of the transfer season.

Chelsea set the stage for signing Christopher Nkunku

Chelsea are always very busy and at the moment they are focusing on RB Leipzig star Christopher Nkunku who had a medical a few weeks ago with the Chelsea staff in order to prepare for a potential transfer in 2023.

The deal is not yet complete, but Chelsea will soon be in direct contact with RB Leipzig to discuss the final fee and the two clubs will try to find a solution together. Otherwise, the back-up plan would be to trigger the €60m release clause in the summer of 2023. Nkunku has already received Chelsea’s contract proposal for a long-term deal and it’s a proposal he’s very tempted by. .

Benjamin Sesko will join RB Leipzig for the 2023-24 season

There will be no surprises for another great talent like Benjamin Sesko: the Slovenian gem will play at RB Leipzig in 2023-24 as a deal was struck for €20m last August to preempt Premier clubs League. But there is a feeling around the player that England could be his next destination, maybe in two or three years.

AC Milan will try to renew Rafael Leao

Many clubs are working on contract extensions in recent weeks: AC Milan are preparing their new contract proposal for Rafael Leao, a key player for Stefano Pioli and one of the best wingers in Europe currently out of contract in June 2024. AC Milan turned down Chelsea’s €70m offer this summer. Valencia are optimistic about a contract extension for José Gayà, a left-back who has long been on FC Barcelona’s roster.

Barcelona’s Sergio Busquets eyes MLS

No decision forthcoming for Sergio Busquets, who will consider his future in 2023. MLS clubs are scrambling to sign him, including Inter Miami who have already tried to bring him in the summer of 2021 but Busquets will not make a decision. than next year. Same for Leo Messi. There are a lot of rumours. It’s normal, Barcelona are still dreaming of his return and PSG would like to extend his contract for another season, but Messi won’t decide now or before the World Cup.

Coaching changes begin

There are also plenty of manager changes to come: Bruno Lage was sacked by Wolves who tried to protect him but the numbers are really bad which is why there will be a decision on the new head coach soon. In Serie A, Sampdoria sacked Marco Giampaolo after a truly terrible start to the season.