(foto: Freepik.com)
Acun Ilicali plans to personally choose Maribor’s next coach, while Bayern target Kenneth Eichhorn and Galatasaray dream of signing Virgil van Dijk.
Acun Ilicali has taken full control of the coaching search at Maribor, while several major European clubs continue shaping the summer transfer market behind the scenes.
Here are the biggest stories from yesterday’s transfer developments.
Acun Ilicali to personally choose Maribor coach
Maribor owner Acun Ilicali has made it clear that one disappointing season will not reduce his ambitions in Slovenia.
The Turkish businessman admitted changes are needed inside the club structure and confirmed that he will personally select the next head coach.
According to Ilicali, the future manager will likely be an unknown name to the wider football public, similar to the appointment of Sergej Jakirovic at Hull City.
Alberto Riera nearing exit at Eintracht
German journalist Florian Plettenberg reports that Eintracht Frankfurt are expected to dismiss former Celje coach Alberto Riera no later than the end of the season.
The Spaniard has come under growing pressure following poor results and internal dissatisfaction.
Marcel Ratnik attracting fresh interest
Marcel Ratnik celebrated the league title in the United Arab Emirates with Al Ain, while also emerging as one of the club’s best-rated players.
The young Slovenian international is now increasingly linked with a move back to Europe after an impressive campaign.
Maximilian Ibrahimovic facing uncertain future
Maximilian Ibrahimovic, the son of legendary striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, is reportedly set to leave the club where his father first became famous.
The young attacker has struggled to impress and could soon return to Italy as he looks to rebuild his career.
Niklas Sule reportedly retiring at 30
Former Bayern Munich defender Niklas Sule has reportedly decided to retire from football at the age of 30 due to chronic knee problems.
At his peak, Sule was widely considered one of Europe’s top central defenders.
Salzburg ready for another major sale
Red Bull Salzburg continue proving their reputation as one of Europe’s top talent factories.
Brentford are reportedly prepared to pay €20 million for 19-year-old defender Jannik Schuster, while Borussia Dortmund have offered the same amount for French defender Joan Gadou.
Bayern targeting 16-year-old Kenneth Eichhorn
Bayern Munich have reportedly entered the race for Hertha Berlin sensation Kenneth Eichhorn.
The 16-year-old already plays regularly in the 2. Bundesliga and is regarded as one of Germany’s biggest prospects.
According to Transfermarkt, Eichhorn’s estimated market value has already reached €20 million.
Galatasaray dream of Virgil van Dijk signing
Galatasaray are reportedly preparing another ambitious move after previous marquee signings such as Victor Osimhen, Mauro Icardi and Ilkay Gundogan.
Turkish media claim the Istanbul giants are now considering a sensational approach for Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk.