Transfer News LIVE: Liverpool Near Frimpong Deal, Barcelona Secure Yamal, De Bruyne to Napoli?
As the summer transfer window prepares to swing open on June 1st for a limited 10-day window due to the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, top European clubs are making rapid moves to shape their squads. This condensed early transfer phase is expected to trigger a domino effect of high-profile signings, extensions, and strategic exits. Welcome to today’s edition of Transfer News LIVE – your daily round-up of all the major deals, whispers, and confirmed movements across the global football scene.
Let’s dive into all the confirmed reports, speculative whispers, and emerging storylines shaping the footballing landscape as of May 28th.
May 28th: Early Morning Transfer Round-up
Liverpool Set to Finalize Jeremie Frimpong Signing
Liverpool have moved swiftly in the opening days of the pre-window period and are on the brink of completing their first major signing of the summer. According to reports from Sky Sports, Bayer Leverkusen’s flying right-back Jeremie Frimpong has landed in the UK, with medicals and paperwork expected to be finalized in the coming hours.
The Dutch international has been a standout performer under Xabi Alonso, playing a pivotal role in Leverkusen’s title-winning season in the Bundesliga. Frimpong is set to join Liverpool for a reported fee of £29.5 million, in what many view as a strategic addition to bolster the Reds’ defensive flexibility and attacking transitions.
The deal comes amid Liverpool’s aggressive approach to reshaping their squad under Arne Slot, who is ready to embark on his first campaign at Anfield following Jurgen Klopp’s departure.
🚨 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Jeremie Frimpong has landed in the U.K. to complete his move to Liverpool, @SkySportsNews. pic.twitter.com/a2cbn9EyI3
— LFC Transfer Room (@LFCTransferRoom) May 27, 2025
Barcelona Secure Future of Teen Star Lamine Yamal
In a major piece of long-term planning, FC Barcelona have officially announced that wonderkid Lamine Yamal has signed a contract extension that will keep him at the club until June 2031. The news was confirmed late on May 27th, with sporting director Deco and president Joan Laporta instrumental in getting the deal over the line.
The 16-year-old forward, who has already made waves in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, is seen as the future of Barcelona’s attack. His new deal includes a staggering release clause – reportedly exceeding €1 billion – as the Blaugrana aim to ward off any interest from Europe’s elite.
Barça fans have celebrated the extension as a vital win amid ongoing financial instability, viewing Yamal as the crown jewel of the club’s post-Messi era.
The future is now. pic.twitter.com/VP2WQmbNHN
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) May 27, 2025
Rudy’s Rumour Mill: Chelsea Target Rodrygo, Al Hilal Eye Theo Hernandez
Tribal Football’s transfer expert Rudy Galetti has offered fresh insights in his weekly roundup, spotlighting the growing interest in some of Europe’s top talents. According to Galetti:
- Chelsea have made the first move to sign Rodrygo from Real Madrid. While the Brazilian winger’s price tag sits at around €120 million, initial contact has been made with his representatives, marking a serious attempt to bring him to Stamford Bridge.
- Al Hilal, who are preparing for a major summer ahead of the Club World Cup, are actively pursuing Theo Hernandez. Talks with the AC Milan defender’s camp have been ongoing, and a €30 million deal could be on the cards if personal terms are agreed.
- Napoli have made enquiries for Real Betis winger Jesus Rodriguez, a highly-rated 2005-born prospect, as they seek to strengthen their left flank after parting ways with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
- Lazio are determined to hold onto Taty Castellanos, who has attracted rumours of a move to the Premier League. Everton and Wolves are reportedly not in the race, with Lazio unwilling to consider offers under €40 million.
May 27th Transfer Highlights
Napoli Closing In on Kevin De Bruyne
In what could be one of the most shocking moves of the summer, reports suggest Napoli are nearing a sensational deal for Manchester City legend Kevin De Bruyne. With his contract expiring at the end of the season, the Belgian midfield maestro is weighing his next move, and Napoli have emerged as frontrunners.
The reigning Serie A champions are looking to rebuild after a turbulent season, and De Bruyne’s potential arrival would mark a statement of serious intent. The move would also reunite the veteran with former teammates and offer him a new challenge in one of Europe’s most passionate football cities.
No official bid has been confirmed yet, but negotiations are believed to be advancing rapidly.
🚨🇧🇪 Kevin De Bruyne’s lawyers are set to arrive in Napoli in the next hours to finalize details of the three-year deal.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 27, 2025
Napoli are hopeful to get the agreement done in the next 48h. @MatteMoretto pic.twitter.com/zRHMAtafPw
Bayern Munich Eyeing Left-Winger Reinforcements
According to Florian Plettenberg, Bayern Munich are targeting at least one elite winger this summer, with Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton), and Rafael Leao (AC Milan) all on their radar.
With Thomas Tuchel set to leave and a managerial transition underway, the club wants to invest in dynamic, wide attackers capable of rejuvenating their flanks. Leao remains the most expensive option, with a valuation north of €80 million.
Gakpo’s availability remains uncertain, especially as Liverpool undergo structural changes under Slot, while Mitoma could be a more attainable and tactical fit for Bayern’s pressing style.
🚨🔴 EXCL | FC Bayern are now also considering Cody #Gakpo in their search for a high-profile left winger!
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) May 26, 2025
The 26 y/o Dutchman is on the shortlist behind Kaoru Mitoma and Rafael Leao. There has already been contact regarding Gakpo – and still is. Max Eberl likes him.
Gakpo is… pic.twitter.com/WpjBOa8Y7e
Cristiano Ronaldo Hints at Departure from Al Nassr
In a surprise late-night development on May 26th, Cristiano Ronaldo posted a cryptic message on social media following his final game of the season with Al Nassr. “This chapter is over,” wrote the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, prompting speculation that he could be planning another move – possibly even a return to Europe or a stint in MLS.
Ronaldo has scored prolifically since joining the Saudi Pro League but could be eyeing a new challenge after one season in Riyadh. Any concrete developments remain pending, but the eyes of the football world are on CR7’s next step.
This chapter is over.
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) May 26, 2025
The story? Still being written.
Grateful to all. pic.twitter.com/Vuvl5siEB3
Chelsea Push for Hugo Ekitike in €70 Million Deal
In their ongoing search for a consistent striker, Chelsea are reportedly on the verge of securing a €70 million deal with Eintracht Frankfurt for Hugo Ekitike. The French forward, who had a mixed spell with PSG, found form in the Bundesliga and now appears to be on his way to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea are undergoing a major squad overhaul this summer, and securing a young, mobile striker has been one of their top priorities. If completed, the move will be one of the Premier League’s most significant transfers in the early window.
Exc: Chelsea close to agreeing £70m deal for Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike. Feeling transfer - which would be the most expensive sale in #FFC history - #CFC and Ekitike have agreed personal terms already. Chelsea wanted this deal done quickly.https://t.co/Y0xd5d7dW6
— Sami Mokbel (@SamiMokbel81_DM) May 26, 2025
Liverpool Eyeing Florian Wirtz with €100M+ Bid
According to Fabrizio Romano and confirmed by Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes, Liverpool have tabled an offer exceeding €100 million for Florian Wirtz, the Bundesliga sensation.
The 21-year-old was the heartbeat of Bayer Leverkusen’s unbeaten domestic campaign and has attracted attention from top clubs across Europe. While Leverkusen are reluctant to sell, Liverpool’s bid is seen as a serious attempt to bring the attacking midfielder to Anfield.
This move aligns with Liverpool’s broader transition plans and would signal their intent to remain competitive both in the Premier League and Champions League.
🚨💣 Liverpool first official bid for Florian Wirtz in excess of €100m package with add-ons has been received by Bayer Leverkusen.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 26, 2025
Club to club negotiations underway, restarting today to get the deal done very soon.
Wirtz already told Bayer that he only wants Liverpool. pic.twitter.com/rhVakmBulA
Newcastle Weigh Callum Wilson Future
According to David Ornstein, Newcastle United have opted against extending Callum Wilson’s current deal through the automatic clause, but may still offer him a renewed contract based on performance incentives.
Wilson, who has battled injuries, remains a fan favorite and effective goalscorer, but the Magpies are also exploring younger alternatives to lead their attack. A final decision is expected soon, with interest from other Premier League clubs quietly building.
🚨 Newcastle United decide against taking up option to extend Callum Wilson contract but enter negotiations over new deal that would be slightly more incentive-based. 33yo striker to decide whether he wants to stay at #NUFC or move elsewhere @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/HTlx94MFXy
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) May 26, 2025
Manchester United Reach Agreement for Matheus Cunha
Despite enduring a disappointing season, Manchester United appear close to finalizing a deal for Wolves forward Matheus Cunha. Reports from multiple sources confirm that United are ready to pay a fee in the region of €50 million for the Brazilian attacker.
With uncertainty around the futures of Antony, Sancho, and Martial, Cunha offers versatility, pace, and a strong work ethic that suits Erik ten Hag’s system. United aim to complete this deal early to avoid bidding wars later in the window.
🚨⏳ Manchester United are closing the deal for Matheus #Cunha. A full agreement with Wolves has been reached. It already looked very promising yesterday, as reported.
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) May 26, 2025
Cunha wants the move. He is one of the club’s absolute top targets, as well as for Ruben Amorim.
Medical… pic.twitter.com/5GRAyCnati
Transfer Window Preview – What to Expect from June 1st
The summer transfer window will officially open on June 1st with a unique 10-day early activation due to the FIFA Club World Cup in December. This short window is expected to spark a flurry of activity, especially among clubs with continental competition obligations and pre-season tours scheduled in Asia and the US.
From blockbuster signings to smart free-agent grabs, the next two weeks will be critical in shaping the squads that will contend for silverware in 2024-25.
Summary: Key Takeaways
- Liverpool set to seal Jeremie Frimpong and are pushing hard for Florian Wirtz.
- Barcelona lock down teenage sensation Lamine Yamal until 2031.
- Napoli are closing in on Kevin De Bruyne, possibly the shock move of the window.
- Chelsea are aggressive in the market, targeting Rodrygo and closing in on Hugo Ekitike.
- Cristiano Ronaldo hints at departure from Al Nassr.
- Manchester United poised to sign Matheus Cunha as their first major addition.
- Bayern Munich explore winger signings: Gakpo, Mitoma, Leao.
- Theo Hernandez, Jesus Rodriguez, and Taty Castellanos headline this week’s Rudy’s Rumour Mill.
- Transfer window opens June 1st for a 10-day window to align with Club World Cup registration deadlines.
Stay tuned for more updates throughout the week as more transfers are confirmed and the summer window continues to take shape.
