The top stories and transfer rumours from Saturday’s newspapers…
Man Utd have been handed a major boost in their bid to sign Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde, 23 – The Standard
Man Utd, however, are not convinced that Eddie Howe is the man to replace Michael Carrick – Independent
Real Madrid are planning to offer an easier transition to the first team for 16-year-old JJ Gabriel than he would have given at Man Utd – Marca
Unai Emery believes Aston Villa are capable of winning the Champions League – Birmingham Live
Newcastle are tracking Middlesbrough striker Will Lankshear after his incredible start to the season in the Championship – Talksport
Werder Bremen want to turn Niclas Fullkrug’s loan move from West Ham into a permanent deal – Sky Germany
Inter Milan want to sign Crystal Palace defender Chris Richards – Tuttomercato