Fabrizio Romano Transfer News: Tonali EXPLAINED, Man Utd UPDATES, deals RESCUED

Karim Benzema’s move set off a dramatic chain of late deals and reversals, while there are updates on Sandro Tonali’s future and Manchester United’s plans for two players.

Karim Benzema completes Al-Hilal move

The Saudi Pro League is set to be a big player in the transfer market in 2026, and one major deal got over the line on its Deadline Day.

“Karim Benzema has officially signed for Al-Hilal, and the deal is now completed after a crazy final 24 hours of the transfer window,” Romano told his YouTube channel.

“Benzema decided to leave Al-Ittihad after feeling offended by the contract proposal he received, and he has now joined Simone Inzaghi’s team in Saudi Arabia, with everything agreed and finalised.”

N’Golo Kante and Youssef En-Nesyri deals rescued after collapse scare

Romano continued: “The Deadline Day situation became extremely complicated because several deals were connected, including N’Golo Kante to Fenerbahce and Youssef En-Nesyri to Al-Ittihad.

“The problem was related to incorrect details in the documents submitted to the FIFA TMS, which meant the transfers were initially rejected and considered in serious danger throughout the night.

“In the morning, Fenerbahce even released an official statement saying the deal was off, but the clubs did not give up and continued working with FIFA to find a solution.

“Later in the evening, the green light finally arrived. N’Golo Kante has completed his move to Fenerbahce, signing a contract until 2028, six months before the World Cup, and it is now officially done.

“At the same time, Youssef En-Nesyri has joined Al-Ittihad after considering several options in England, Spain and Italy, bringing a positive ending to a very complicated story.”

Dayot Upamecano signs new Bayern contract

Romano also commented on the situation of Bayern Munich centre-back Dayot Upamecano, who completed a U-turn after being linked to a string of major teams.

“One of the biggest surprises of deadline day was not a transfer, but a new contract, with Dayot Upamecano signing a fresh deal at Bayern Munich until 2030,” he explained.

“Bayern had initially withdrawn their contract proposal because they did not want to wait too long, but Upamecano made it clear that he wanted to stay and accepted the club’s conditions.

“The agreement includes an important salary and signing fee, and while there is a release clause, it will only be valid from 2027, not this summer.

“Several clubs were monitoring the situation, including Paris Saint-Germain and one Premier League side, but Upamecano decided to continue at Bayern rather than leave on a free transfer.”

Sandro Tonali situation explained ahead of summer window

Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali was unexpectedly involved in late Deadline Day drama in the Premier League as rumours of a move to Arsenal emerged.

“There has been a lot of confusion around Sandro Tonali, but his agent, Giuseppe Rizzo, was very clear in the last 24 hours that the player was not offered to Arsenal.

“It would have been completely unrealistic to try to sign a player of Tonali’s level in the final 24 hours of the market, especially considering how long similar deals normally take.

“For the summer, however, Tonali is a name to watch. Arsenal remain interested, and there is also strong interest from Juventus and other top clubs in England.

“The next key step will be discussions with Newcastle United between February and April, because any decision will depend on the club’s position and future plans.”

James Rodriguez close to MLS move

MLS is close to completing a major coup with the arrival of former Real Madrid playmaker James Rodriguez.

“One potential late surprise involves James Rodriguez, who is currently a free agent and is now close to joining Minnesota United in MLS,” Romano confirmed.

“The agreement is almost completed, with final details being discussed, and it could be confirmed very soon after talks between the player’s agent and the club.”

Manchester United updates on Maguire and Onana

Man Utd had a quiet January but are already making plans for the summer.

Romano explained: “At Manchester United, there is still no final decision on Harry Maguire. The club are happy with his performances and have held initial talks with his agents, but no agreement has been reached on salary or contract terms.

“Maguire is out of contract in the summer, and while United blocked approaches from Italian clubs in January, his future remains open.

“In terms of departures, André Onana is expected to leave the club next summer. United do not plan to continue with him beyond his current situation, and several clubs are already showing interest.

“A permanent deal would be very different financially compared to a loan, especially considering Onana’s salary, and this will be a key factor in any future negotiations.

“This summer window is expected to be important for United, not only in terms of player decisions but also depending on the manager situation, which will shape the club’s direction going forward.”

Related stories:

Man Utd decide on first three summer signings: €200m monster spend locked in

Man Utd taking Deadline Day GAMBLE

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