In transfer news, reported £35m-rated Liverpool and Leeds United target Rodrigo De Paul has moved to play down any speculation surrounding his future with Udinese.
“Even this summer and January there was a lot of talk about me (leaving Udinese),” De Paul said. “But I immediately went to the director to tell him I wouldn’t go anywhere.
"I closed the doors to everyone and we hope to continue like this. I have to thank the fans so much.
"They have always had nice words for me. Every day, I get beautiful messages from them.
"I know it’s not easy to have that love, that connection, that energy. Returning to the Champions League with Udinese would be the best.
"I believe sooner or later this will come.”
Leeds United moved into the top 10 of the Premier League table on Monday with a 2-0 win over Crystal Palace – and one man who again caught the eye was Raphinha.
Over the weekend, Football Insider claimed Liverpool were keeping tabs on the in-form Raphinha after being left “blown away” by the Brazilian.
This story has now been developed by Spanish outlet Fichajes, which states Jurgen Klopp is preparing a £35m offer when the window reopens.
Fresh rumours this morning, however, have linked Bielsa’s side with £35m-rated international attacker as a potential Raphinia replacement.
Here’s a round-up of the latest gossip doing the rounds across the Premier League:
7. Salomon Rondon on the move
Former Newcastle United and West Brom striker Salomon Rondon reportedly returning to Russia. The Venezuelan is said to be set to join CSKA Moscow. A report states that Rondon will become one of the club’s highest-paid players, and will undergo a medical soon. (Metaratings.ru) Photo: MIGUEL GUTIERREZ
8. Magpies forward frustrated
Newcastle United forward Dwight Gayle is frustrated at the lack of playing time at St James's Park and could leave on a free transfer when his contract expires in the summer. (Various) Photo: Laurence Griffiths
9. £35m attacker linked with Leeds United
Marcelo Bielsa has identified £35m-rated Douglas Costa as the ideal replacement for Raphinha in case he leaves the club in the summer. The former Shakhtar Donetsk winger is currently on loan at Bayern Munich. He previously impressed for Bayern scoring 14 goals in 77 appearances. He is not in Andrea Pirlo’s first-team plans, and the club considers him as a surplus to requirements. Bayern are unlikely to make his move permanent while Juventus are ready to offload him. (JuveLive) Photo: Stuart Franklin