Real Madrid Pauses Midfield Search After Rodri Declines; Arsenal Sets £78m Price on Zubimendi

After being turned down by Rodri, Real Madrid has decided to pause their search for a new midfielder this summer. Reports from Diario AS suggest the club sees no available midfielders who could enhance their squad at this time.

Aurelien Tchouameni remains a key figure in Real Madrid's midfield plans. The French player has agreed to extend his contract with the club, quashing hopes from Manchester United of securing a deal. Journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Tchouameni will stay at the Bernabeu despite interest from the Premier League.

Arsenal Places High Value on Martin Zubimendi

The midfield market is active, with Martin Zubimendi catching attention recently. Chelsea’s approach for the Arsenal midfielder was met with a hefty asking price of at least £78 million, according to Mundo Deportivo. Xabi Alonso is eager to bring Zubimendi into his squad, but the player's playing time might be affected by the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes in North London.

Barcelona Explores Backup Options

After failing to secure Julian Alvarez, Barcelona is considering alternatives. Young forward Eli Kroupi Junior has drawn interest, but a broken foot has halted progress. German outlet BILD reports that Barcelona may also consider short-term targets like Alexander Sorloth and Serhou Guirassy.

Aston Villa Targets Joao Palhinha Amid Midfield Woes

Aston Villa is intensifying efforts to sign Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich. Manager Unai Emery is rebuilding the team after losing Youri Tielemans and facing a long-term injury to Amadou Onana. Newcastle United could compete for Palhinha’s signature after Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg declined a move to St James’ Park, leaving the Magpies looking for alternatives.

Crystal Palace Eyes Record Signing for Lamine Camara

Crystal Palace might break their transfer record to acquire Monaco's midfielder Lamine Camara. Foot Mercato reports an offer of €50 million has been made, just below the fee paid for Jorgen Strand Larsen earlier this year. Nottingham Forest is preparing a rival bid, backed by midfielder Elliot Anderson.

• Real Madrid Midfield Status: No new signings after Rodri snub
• Aurelien Tchouameni: New contract signed, stays at Real Madrid
• Martin Zubimendi: Arsenal demands minimum £78m, Chelsea interested
• Barcelona Targets: Eli Kroupi Junior sidelined due to injury; considering Alexander Sorloth, Serhou Guirassy
• Aston Villa Transfer Plans: Pursuing Joao Palhinha amid injury and departures; competition from Newcastle
• Crystal Palace Offer: €50m bid for Lamine Camara, rivalled by Nottingham Forest