Transfer window buzz: Balerdi to Roma, Leão to Galatasaray, Chelsea targets Martinez

Leonardo Balerdi appears to be on his way out of Olympique Marseille, with reports indicating an agreement has been reached with AS Roma. The Argentine defender, who joined Marseille in 2020, is expected to travel to Italy for a medical on Saturday, provided the clubs finalize the deal by the end of Friday. Sifflé par le Vélodrome during a friendly against Atlético de Madrid, Balerdi's departure seems imminent.

Meanwhile, Galatasaray is reportedly set to secure the signing of Rafael Leão from AC Milan for €45 million, plus bonuses and a sell-on clause. The Portuguese winger, who has 49 caps for his country, has been with AC Milan since 2019 and was part of their Serie A title win in 2022. However, he does not appear to be in the plans of new coach Ruben Amorim.

Aston Villa is also making moves, having agreed a deal with Paris Saint-Germain for Nicolas Jackson. The English club is also reportedly close to signing Emiliano Martinez from Chelsea for up to €75 million including bonuses. In contrast, striker Ollie Watkins is leaving Aston Villa to join Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia for a reported €60 million.

Chelsea, meanwhile, is sending defender Mamadou Sarr on loan to Real Sociedad. The 20-year-old Senegalese international has made only seven appearances for the London club since his January transfer from Strasbourg. The Blues are also reportedly close to signing goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa for €9 million, with the World Cup winner set to bolster their squad.