Real Madrid defender Raul Asencio turned down approaches from Liverpool and Chelsea during the summer transfer window, according to a report in Marca. The Spanish publication claims the centre-back was not short of suitors from the Premier League, yet chose to remain at the Santiago Bernabéu.

United's behind-closed-doors friendly

Manchester United are set to face Lausanne-Sport in a behind-closed-doors friendly during the international break, per The Telegraph. The Swiss club is also owned by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who holds a stake in United, making the fixture an in-house affair of sorts.

Howe not rushing back into management

Eddie Howe is not currently planning a return to football and is taking time away from the game following his departure from Newcastle United, The Telegraph reports. The outlet also notes that the FA had previously floated the idea of Howe taking charge of the England national team.

Willock targeted by Besiktas

Besiktas president Serdal Adali has publicly pledged to sign Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock in January, according to talkSPORT. Adali claimed Willock has already selected a property in Turkey, signalling a strong desire to push the deal through in the winter window.

Ferguson dismisses Rangers links

Lewis Ferguson has moved to play down reports linking him with a summer move to Rangers, telling the BBC he was never close to leaving Bologna. The Scotland international's ties to the Glasgow club made him a natural subject of transfer speculation, but he insists no serious discussions took place.

Roma stadium given the green light

Roma have received official approval to proceed with plans to construct a new £1.2 billion stadium, The Sun reports. The project represents one of the most ambitious infrastructure investments in Italian football in recent years.