Di Marzio Exclusive: Garnacho Could Hijack Rashford’s Barca Dream

With the summer transfer window heating up, Premier League clubs are deep into their recruitment plans ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. We spoke exclusively with renowned transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, who provided key updates on potential moves, surprise targets, and the players facing uncertain futures.

Arsenal Target Calvert-Lewin and Madueke in Summer Overhaul

Dominic Calvert-Lewin has officially departed Everton after announcing his exit from David Moyes’ side, making him one of the more intriguing free agents on the market. The 28-year-old forward is said to be attracting interest from Manchester United and Newcastle United but according to Di Marzio, there’s another Premier League giant in the mix.

“Calvert-Lewin has interest from English clubs. Arsenal have Gyokeres but they may want another striker with different skills. Monaco likes him too. It could be a good opportunity for him in the striker market.”

Whilst on the topic of Arsenal, Di Marzio claims that Arsenal are attempting to build a super team for manager Mikel Arteta and the club see Chelsea and England winger Noni Madueke as a key part of that potential side.

“It’s true that Arsenal want Madueke. They’ve agreed personal terms with his agent and they're now trying to agree a deal with Chelsea. They are trying to build a super team and Madueke is one of their priorities.”

City Duo Grealish and McAtee Await Late Window Interest

Over at the Etihad, both Jack Grealish and James McAtee could be heading for the exit door but their high wages and Manchester City’s valuations are complicating matters.

“There’s nothing concrete happening with either player at the moment,” Di Marzio explained. “Teams are willing to wait until the final days of the window to make a move, most likely on loan. Grealish has an incredible salary so clubs are waiting for the right conditions.”

Jackson on the Move? Juventus and Napoli Monitoring Chelsea Striker

Chelsea’s aggressive recruitment in forward positions through adding Liam Delap, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, and Joao Pedro has cast doubt over Nicolas Jackson’s future at Stamford Bridge. Di Marzio revealed that his representatives are working behind the scenes to engineer a move.

“Jackson’s agents are looking for options like Napoli or Juventus. With Chelsea bringing in new forwards, he’s likely available. But clubs are waiting until the closing days of the window because no one wants to pay full price when they know he’s on sale.”

Rashford Dreaming of Barcelona Move But Garnacho Could Be Surprise Contender

In one of the more unexpected turns this summer, highly-rated winger Nico Williams has signed a new deal with Athletic Bilbao, despite heavy links to Barcelona. The new contract runs until 2035, and his release clause has reportedly risen by more than 50%.

Williams’ decision could open the door for Marcus Rashford to finally make his long-rumoured move to Barcelona. According to Di Marzio, the Manchester United forward remains fixated on the idea.

“Barcelona are interested in Rashford but Rashford is even more interested in Barcelona. His dream is to play there, and his agents are talking. They tried in January, and they’re trying again. Barcelona may prefer a loan because they can’t afford a big transfer fee.”

As it turns out, it's not just Rashford. Di Marzio also noted that Alejandro Garnacho could be of interest to the Catalan club if a similar loan deal can be structured.

“Barcelona could have an interest in Garnacho too if a loan can be agreed with United.”

An interesting season lies ahead for the boys from the Nou Camp, and regardless of where this Rashford transfer goes, many fans will back them to win their La Liga opener using the bet365 bonus code.

Watkins On United's Radar But Is Not The Priority

Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins is another name that has surfaced in relation to Manchester United’s summer plans under new boss Rúben Amorim. While admired, he may not be at the top of the club’s shortlist.

“Watkins is a player United like,” said Di Marzio. “But I don’t think a deal is advanced. He’s on Amorim’s list, but the club has other priorities right now.”

Ekitike Future Tied To Nunez Situation At Liverpool

After Chelsea’s signing of Joao Pedro, attention has turned to the future of PSG striker Hugo Ekitike. Liverpool and United were both linked, but interest has cooled. For the Reds, much hinges on the fate of Darwin Núñez.

“The market for Liverpool has stalled. A lot depends on whether Darwin Núñez is sold. Napoli wanted him, but after the Jota injury news, Liverpool may decide to keep Núñez. If they sell him, Ekitike could be a target.”

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