Bayern Munich are reportedly preparing to accelerate their pursuit of Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck, with the 26-year-old emerging as a prime candidate to reinforce their defense. According to Bild, Bayern view Schlotterbeck as a strategic alternative to Dayot Upamecano, whose contract situation remains unresolved amid strong interest from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. The situation surrounding Upamecano has caused growing concern within Bayern's hierarchy. Negotiations over a contract extension have stalled in recent months, with reports suggesting that the French defender's wage demands have yet to be met.
With each passing day, there is a little more doubt about the future of Dayot Upamecano at Bayern Munich. The Frenchman is publicly saying all of the right things and Bayern Munich - aside of effusively praising the center-back - is expressing confidence about getting a deal done. Things should feel...good? As we get closer to January, though, some big clubs are expressing interest.
Barcelona captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen has returned to the spotlight after recovering from his back injury and receiving medical clearance. The goalkeeper has now been included in the squad for three games in a row, including tonight's Copa del Rey match against Guadalajara, where he could get minutes if Hansi Flick and the club deem it appropriate. However, Ter Stegen's future at Barça is far from clear, with the German now becoming the third-choice goalkeeper behind Joan Garcia and Wojciech Szczesny.
Having signed for Newcastle this summer as a direct replacement for Alexander Isak, Nick Woltemade has enjoyed a bright start to his first season in the Premier League.
Chelsea are in danger of losing one of Enzo Marseca's key men with Atletico Madrid pushing to complete his signing. Maresca has endured a tough few weeks, with Chelsea winning just once since beating Barcelona 3-0 in the Champions League. They have found themselves eight points of Premier League leaders Arsenal and 13th in the Champions League, albeit in a strong position to at least advance to the knockout play-offs.