Real Madrid have had a 150 million euro bid for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez rejected, in the clearest sign yet of their intent to make a major move up front. The offer was confirmed by Real Madrid, but Atletico refused to sell, keeping one of their key attackers in place.

There has been significant movement on the coaching carousel in Portugal and Spain. Marco Silva has agreed to become Benfica’s new head coach, while Benfica have formalized Jose Mourinho’s departure for Real Madrid. In France, Crystal Palace have completed their move for Pierre Sage as head coach after reaching an agreement with Lens, and he is expected to be unveiled this week. Atalanta have also made a change, officially parting ways with Raffaele Palladino after 39 matches, a decision that clears the way for Maurizio Sarri to take charge.

Wolves have brought Raul Jimenez back to Molineux on a free transfer from Fulham. The Mexico striker returns to his former club after leaving in 2023, restoring a familiar connection with supporters.

At the World Cup, England coach Thomas Tuchel said Bukayo Saka’s fitness is being handled with “a little bit of care,” while defender Djed Spence will play with 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 your heart” at the tournament after receiving a letter from Jota’s widow. Off the field, Somali referee Omar Artan said he was denied entry to the United States after an 11-hour immigration interview despite having the “right papers” and the “right visa.”