Friday’s gossip: Man Utd contact Deschamps

Manchester United have reportedly contacted former France coach Didier Deschamps as uncertainty grows over Michael Carrick’s future, although Carrick retains support within the club. Sunday’s match against Aston Villa is seen as an important test, while the transfer gossip also points to interest across several Premier League clubs in players in Europe and Saudi Arabia.

Other reported moves include Tottenham retaining the right to match a bid for Harry Kane under his Bayern Munich deal, and Arsenal tracking Club Brugge striker Nicolo Tresoldi. Liverpool are said to be preparing to pursue Fenerbahce full-back Archie Brown, while Newcastle are eyeing Al-Ahli striker Ivan Toney for January; Flamengo are also linked with Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson.