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Welcome to today’s edition of Slide Rule Pass — your concise, sharp read on the most important transfer stories across Europe. With pre-season in full swing and squads taking shape, the market is moving fast. Let’s dive in.
Alexander Isak has formally requested to leave Newcastle United this summer. The 25‑year‑old Sweden international is seeking a weekly wage of around £300k, which Newcastle find hard to meet under their wage structure. He missed the club’s pre-season tour—officially due to a thigh issue—leading to speculation that he could move soon. Meanwhile, Liverpool have emerged as a top contender and are reportedly in talks.
Marcus Rashford has officially joined Barcelona on a season‑long loan, with an option to buy set at roughly €30 million (£26m). Barça will cover about 75% of his £325k/week wages, and he’s expected to join their Asia tour ahead of the new season.
Bayern Munich aren’t backing down on their pursuit of Liverpool winger Luis Díaz. They’ve already had a £59 million (€67.5m) bid rejected and are now reportedly preparing a €75–80 million (£70–£80m) package, including personal terms already agreed. Díaz has expressed a desire to join, but Liverpool maintain a firm valuation closer to €100m.
Chelsea have formally agreed personal terms with Ajax defender Jorrel Hato, positioning him firmly at the top of their primary defensive targets for the summer. Talks between Chelsea and Ajax are now advancing into the final stages, with a transfer fee in the region of €40 million (£35m–£44m) reportedly under negotiation. Ajax are holding firm for up to €60 million (£52m), but sources suggest a middle-ground deal may be struck soon.
Juventus and AC Milan are reportedly engaged in early-stage discussions over a move for striker Dušan Vlahović. Wage demands remain the main hurdle for these blockbuster Serie A negotiations.
Wolverhampton Wanderers have officially signed attacking winger Jhon Arias from Fluminense, adding flair and pace to their lineup ahead of the new season.
AC Milan have officially completed the signing of Ecuadorian left-back Pervis Estupiñán from Brighton & Hove Albion in a deal reportedly worth €17.5 million, plus €2 million in add‑ons. Estupiñán has signed a five‑year contract through June 2030 and will wear the number 2 shirt at San Siro. He becomes the first-ever Ecuadorian player in Milan’s history.
Summary:
Isak exits Newcastle; Liverpool interested.
Rashford now at Barça on loan.
Bayern raise stakes on Díaz with a fresh €75–80m offer.
Chelsea advancing on Hato.
Vlahović stirs interest from Juve and Milan.
Wolves add Arias to their attack.
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