Newcastle are moving closer to signing Johan Martinez; Manchester United keep a close eye on Ederson; Roberto De Zerbi is very close to reaching an agreement with Tottenham. Here are some of the main stories over the last few days of the transfer market from TribalFootball\'s transfer expert Rudy Galetti.
Newcastle are moving closer to signing South American talent Johan Martinez
Newcastle United are close to completing the signing of Johan Martinez, one of the most promising young players in South America. The 16-year-old winger from Independiente del Valle is attracting strong interest across Europe, but the English club is now leading the race. Earlier this year, both Newcastle and Bayer Leverkusen were preparing offers for the Ecuadorian talent.
Despite interest from other European sides too, Newcastle are now pushing to finalise the deal in the coming weeks. Martinez, born in 2009, is seen as a modern and versatile attacker. He can play on both wings, but is also capable of playing as a central striker. His speed is his most dangerous weapon, allowing him to beat defenders easily in one-on-one situations. However, he is not just a goal scorer.
Martinez is also involved in team play, able to create chances and provide assists. His work rate and pressing ability make him a complete attacking player. Physically strong for his age, he is already able to compete at a high level. His mentality also stands out, showing confidence and leadership on the pitch. Independiente del Valle has a strong history of developing top talents, and Martinez looks ready to follow that path and make his mark in European football.
Man United keep close watch on Atalanta midfielder Ederson
Man United have renewed their interest in Atalanta midfielder Ederson, asking for updated information about the Brazilian as they prepare for the summer transfer window.
The 26-year-old has been on the club’s shortlist for over a year, with United looking to strengthen their midfield with a player who offers balance, energy and consistency. At this stage, there are no advanced negotiations, but the English side is carefully monitoring his situation. Ederson is under contract with Atalanta until 2027 and remains an important part of the Italian club’s system.
During the winter transfer window, Atletico Madrid also showed strong interest in the midfielder. After signing Ademola Lookman, the Spanish club tried to bring Ederson to La Liga, making several approaches, including in the final days of January. So far this season, Ederson has made 23 appearances in Serie A, scoring one goal and confirming his reliability in midfield. His ability to recover the ball and support both defense and attack makes him a valuable profile.
For now, Manchester United are only collecting information, without taking concrete steps. However, their continued attention suggests that Ederson remains a key option for the future. With the summer market getting closer, the situation is one to follow in the coming weeks.
Tottenham turned to De Zerbi after Tudor’s exit and Hütter's decision
Tottenham have officially parted ways with Igor Tudor by mutual consent, as confirmed by the club on Sunday. With the team still just one point above the relegation zone in the Premier League, the search for a new manager has become a top priority.
In recent days, Spurs gathered information about Adi Hütter as a possible replacement. The Austrian coach, formerly at AS Monaco, was included on the club’s shortlist. However, Hütter has made a clear decision: he wants to return to coaching only next summer and continue his planned break until then. For this reason, he is not available for an immediate role. Following this development, Tottenham have accelerated their move for Roberto De Zerbi.
The former Marseille coach is now very close to reaching an agreement with the English club. Several factors are pushing De Zerbi towards this decision. First, Tottenham have offered a lucrative contract. Second, the club has given strong assurances about significant investment in the squad next summer, especially if the team avoids relegation.
Finally, the relatively favourable schedule compared to their direct rivals is also seen as an important advantage. With time running out and the situation still delicate, Tottenham are moving quickly to secure their next manager and stabilise the team for the final part of the season.
Noahkai Banks attracts European interest as the international future remains open
Noahkai Banks is one of the most interesting young defenders in Europe. The 19-year-old centre-back, currently playing for FC Augsburg, is attracting strong interest from top clubs in both the Premier League and the Bundesliga.
Despite his young age, Banks has already made 30 appearances in the Bundesliga, showing maturity and consistency at a high level. His contract with Augsburg runs until 2029, and his value is already more than €20 million. Banks is a modern defender, comfortable in both a three-man and four-man defensive line. Right-footed and physically strong, he has developed through Augsburg’s academy, which he joined at the age of seven.
His personal story is also unique. Born in the United States, he spent part of his childhood in Washington before moving to Germany with his mother. This background has created an important decision for his international future: Banks has not yet chosen between representing the United States or Germany at the senior level.
USA coach Mauricio Pochettino is hoping to convince him in time for the next World Cup, which will be played at home, but the player is still undecided. With growing interest from top clubs and an important choice ahead, Noahkai Banks is a name to watch for both club and international football.
Martin Šotiček is set for a summer move as European interest grows
Martin Šotiček is emerging as one of the most interesting young Croatian talents in Europe. The 21-year-old winger has made a strong impact at FC Basel since joining the Swiss club in 2024, quickly becoming an important part of the team.
This season, Šotiček has already played 25 matches, showing consistency and development that have not gone unnoticed. His performances have attracted attention from several clubs across Europe, with teams from Belgium and Germany showing concrete interest in signing him.
Despite being under contract with Basel until June 2028, it is now expected that the Croatian winger will leave the club this summer. His next destination is still open, but the growing number of interested clubs suggests that there will be strong competition for his signature. Šotiček has also represented Croatia at youth international level, scoring three goals in 19 appearances.
His experience with the national team confirms his potential and his steady progress. With his pace, attacking ability and room for improvement, Šotiček is seen as a player ready for the next step in his career. As the summer transfer window approaches, his situation is one to follow closely, with several European clubs ready to make their move.
alsayem
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Manchester United watching Ederson? Hope they don’t try to play him as a striker by mistake! 😂⚽