Sir Jim Ratcliffe may be preparing to sell his French club OGC Nice as reports emerge of growing interest from Saudi investors. The Manchester United co-owner has already started making changes at Old Trafford, and the potential sale of Nice could signal a full transition in focus to United’s long-term strategy. Sources suggest that talks have already begun behind the scenes, with Ratcliffe open to offers that would allow him to concentrate on revamping the football structure at Manchester United.
In tandem with this development, United’s internal restructuring continues. Two senior members of staff—Richard Hawkins and David Harrison—are expected to leave as part of a second wave of redundancies. Their departures are seen as part of Ratcliffe’s broader effort to modernise football operations at the club. Elsewhere in the Premier League, Leeds United are now competing with Everton to sign Newcastle United’s Sean Longstaff, with both clubs eager to reinforce their midfield for the season ahead.
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Manchester United’s recruitment team is ramping up its scouting activity in South America. River Plate’s Franco Mastantuono has declared his dream to join Real Madrid, but United are believed to be closely monitoring the midfielder’s progress. His technical ability and maturity beyond his years have sparked interest from several elite clubs. Although Madrid may be favourites to land the teenager, United are keen not to miss out, especially with youth-focused development becoming a major pillar of their recruitment strategy.
United have already made one notable move by securing the signing of Enzo Kana-Biyik, a promising teenage striker who has rejected offers from Paris Saint-Germain and other leading European sides. The forward has reportedly agreed to a long-term deal with United, reinforcing the club’s commitment to investing in emerging talent. This approach reflects a desire to build a sustainable squad with depth and versatility, especially given the expected departures of older players in the upcoming transfer window.
Meanwhile, Manchester City have confirmed that Kevin De Bruyne’s final match for the club will be against Bournemouth later this month. The Belgian midfielder has been a talisman for City during one of the most successful eras in their history. Fans are expected to turn out in large numbers to give him a fitting farewell. While there has been speculation about his next destination, it is not yet clear whether he will continue playing in Europe or pursue a move to a less demanding league overseas.
Arsenal have been forced to respond after footage surfaced online showing a group of their supporters engaging in racist abuse directed at Paris Saint-Germain players. The club issued a strong statement, vowing to take the “strongest possible action” against those involved. This incident has overshadowed some of the positive progress made on the pitch. In transfer terms, Mikel Arteta is now believed to be facing a summer dilemma in his forward department, as the Gunners evaluate their striking options for next season.
Newcastle United remain active in the market, with a particular interest in Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo. The Cameroon international has been in strong form, and Newcastle view him as an ideal fit for their wide attacking play. However, Brentford’s asking price has reportedly caused hesitation, with the Magpies reluctant to overspend despite having a healthy budget. Negotiations are likely to continue as Eddie Howe considers alternative targets if a deal for Mbeumo stalls.
Real Madrid are facing scrutiny in La Liga, with their in-house media outlet launching a fierce attack on match officials ahead of their clash with Celta Vigo. The club’s complaints stem from what they claim is inconsistent refereeing and questionable decisions in recent matches. Real Madrid are also dealing with growing injury concerns, with defender Jules Koundé likely to miss the second leg of their Champions League semi-final due to a hamstring problem—posing a significant setback ahead of such a pivotal European clash.
Elsewhere in football, several disciplinary and administrative headlines have emerged. Scottish side Greenock Morton have been handed a transfer ban by FIFA for paperwork irregularities involving a player signed from Liverpool. In Spain, Elche have controversially banned sunflower seeds from being sold or consumed inside their stadium. Meanwhile, Chilean side Colo-Colo will play multiple continental fixtures without supporters, both home and away, after a ruling by South American football authorities. These off-field decisions highlight the varied challenges clubs face beyond just performances on the pitch.