Football Transfer News Roundup: Kroos Returns, Chelsea’s Double Swoop, and More
The football world is abuzz with transfer news, and pixiejars.com has you covered. From Toni Kroos’s surprising return to the sport to Chelsea’s successful double signing, here’s a roundup of the most noteworthy transfer news as of March 21st.
Toni Kroos Back in the Game
Less than a year after hanging up his boots, Toni Kroos has made a surprising comeback to the world of football, albeit in a completely new capacity. The football agency Sports360 recently announced that the German World Cup winner has become a shareholder in their company.
This move sees Kroos transition from midfield maestro to the business side of the beautiful game. His experience and insights will undoubtedly be valuable assets for Sports360, a company known for representing some of the biggest names in football.
From Pitch to Boardroom: Kroos Embraces a New Role
Sports360 is run by Volker Struth, a prominent agent in German football who has overseen the careers of Julian Nagelsmann and many other top players. Notably, Kroos himself was previously one of Struth’s clients. This reunion suggests a strong bond and shared vision for the future of player representation.
Kroos’s investment in Sports360 marks a significant shift in his career. It will be fascinating to see how his influence shapes the agency and the wider football landscape in the coming years.
Chelsea Makes Waves with Double Signing
Chelsea has officially completed the double signing of Geovany Quenda and Dario Essugo from Sporting CP, in a deal worth a combined €74.4 million. This significant investment underscores the Blues’ ambition to bolster their squad with young and promising talent.
The acquisitions of Quenda and Essugo represent a strategic move by Chelsea to secure the services of two highly-rated prospects. This double swoop is likely to have a significant impact on the team’s dynamics and future performance.
Building for the Future: Chelsea Secures Two Rising Stars
Reports suggest that Chelsea unexpectedly reached an agreement to sign Geovany Quenda last week. They then swiftly finalized the deal for Dario Essugo, who is currently on loan at Las Palmas. Interestingly, the Blues had previously attempted to sign Essugo in January but were unsuccessful at the time.
This persistent pursuit highlights Chelsea’s determination to acquire these young talents. The club clearly sees significant potential in both players and is investing heavily in their future development.
Real Madrid Eyeing Potential Vinícius Jr. Replacements
According to reports from SPORT, Vinícius Jr. is seeking a significant pay raise. Currently one of Real Madrid’s highest earners, on par with superstars like Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham, Vinícius is reportedly looking to extend his current contract, which runs until 2027, by a further two years in exchange for a substantial salary increase.
While President Florentino Pérez is keen to retain the Brazilian winger at the Santiago Bernabéu, he may be reluctant to meet these demands. Rumors of a €1 billion offer from Saudi Arabian clubs are circulating, adding further complexity to the situation.
Contingency Plans: Real Madrid Considers Alternatives
Should Vinícius push for a move, Real Madrid are reportedly prepared to consider a transfer fee exceeding €250 million. In such a scenario, the club has identified potential replacements, including Florian Wirtz and Nico Williams, both of whom are highly-regarded young talents.
This proactive approach suggests that Real Madrid are prepared for all eventualities and are not willing to be held hostage by player demands, even from a star of Vinícius Jr.’s caliber.
Angel Gomes Rejects Lucrative West Ham Offer
Former Manchester United academy star Angel Gomes is set to leave Lille this summer upon the expiry of his contract. Despite West Ham reportedly offering the 24-year-old a lucrative deal worth £100,000 per week, Gomes has declined the opportunity to join the London club, according to The Guardian.
This unexpected rejection suggests that Gomes has other priorities, perhaps favoring a move to a club with different sporting ambitions or a more appealing playing style.
Al-Nassr Targets Arsenal’s Gabriel
Saudi Pro League giants Al-Nassr are reportedly keen to sign Arsenal defender Gabriel, according to talkSPORT. They are prepared to offer the Brazilian center-back an annual salary of around €20 million, nearly triple his current earnings at the Emirates.
Al-Nassr has reportedly made initial contact with Gabriel regarding a potential summer transfer. This ambitious move underscores the growing financial power of the Saudi Pro League and its increasing ability to attract top talent from European clubs.