Real Madrid have had a 150 million euro bid for Julian Alvarez rejected by Atletico Madrid, with the move for the striker confirmed by Madrid and swiftly turned down by their city rivals.

There has been movement on the managerial front too. Atalanta have officially parted ways with Raffaele Palladino after 39 matches, clearing the way for Maurizio Sarri to take over. Crystal Palace have finalized the appointment of Pierre Sage as head coach after reaching an agreement with Lens, and his unveiling is expected this week.

At Wolves, Raul Jimenez has returned on a free transfer from Fulham, bringing the Mexico striker back to Molineux. Inter are nearing a deal for Lazio goalkeeper Ivan Provedel, who would add competition and cover for Josep Martinez. Milan, meanwhile, have confirmed preseason friendlies against Manchester United and Celtic.

At the World Cup, England manager Thomas Tuchel said Bukayo Saka’s fitness is being handled with “a little bit of care,” while defender Djed Spence will play in a protective mask after suffering a broken jaw in a Premier League match last month. Scotland captain Andy Robertson said he will carry former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota in his heart at the tournament after receiving a letter from Jota’s widow, and veteran goalkeeper Craig Gordon has been included in the squad at 43.

Away from the pitch, Somali referee Omar Artan said he was denied entry to the United States for the World Cup after an 11-hour immigration interview despite holding the “right papers” and the “right visa.” Iran’s football federation said its group-stage ticket allocation had been revoked just days before the tournament.