Transfer News 29/9: Ballon d'Or Winner Set to Reunite with Mourinho, Liverpool and MU Battle for Branthwaite

Morning transfer updates on 29/9 focus on Mourinho's plan to sign Benzema for Benfica.

Liverpool and Manchester United Compete Fiercely for Jarrad Branthwaite

According to Sunday Mirror, Liverpool is in a strong competition with Manchester United to acquire Everton's center-back Jarrad Branthwaite.

The 23-year-old player has long been a target for MU, who may make an offer around £65 million in January 2026. Meanwhile, Liverpool must seek alternatives after missing out on Marc Guéhi, making Branthwaite their top choice. However, Everton aims to retain the defender, who is contracted until 2030.

Mourinho Wants to Bring Benzema to Benfica

According to Marca, coach Jose Mourinho is eager to reunite with Karim Benzema at Benfica following his appointment as their manager. The French striker currently plays for Al Ittihad (Saudi Arabia) but is considering a return to Europe in January.

Benzema left Real Madrid in summer 2023 to join Al Ittihad on a free transfer. However, the club's poor start to the new season has cast doubt on his future.

Benfica is among the clubs interested in Benzema. If the deal happens, it will mark a reunion with Mourinho after their time together at Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013.

MU Holds Advantage Over Chelsea in Kenan Yildiz Pursuit

According to Football Insider, Manchester United currently leads Chelsea in the race to sign Juventus' Kenan Yildiz.

If Marcus Rashford completes his transfer to Barcelona in summer 2026, MU will have extra funds to invest in this deal. Yildiz, the 19-year-old Turkish international, is valued at around £80 million, a figure that could rise if Juventus renews his contract soon.

AC Milan Returns to Target Joe Gomez

According to Calciomercato, AC Milan plans to revive their pursuit of Liverpool's Joe Gomez in the winter transfer window. Coach Max Allegri wants to strengthen the defense and considers the England international a priority target.

During the last summer transfer window, Milan closely followed the deal but missed the deadline. Nonetheless, the Italian club remains determined to return in January 2026. Gomez is still under contract with Liverpool until June 2027.

Adeyemi Close to Renewing with Dortmund

According to journalist Nicolo Schira, Karim Adeyemi is nearing a new contract with Borussia Dortmund. The 23-year-old striker was rumored to leave BVB last summer but is now ready to commit long-term to the Ruhr club. Adeyemi started the 2025/26 Bundesliga season impressively, including a goal against Mainz that helped Dortmund secure a 2-0 victory last weekend.