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European Paper Talk: Gareth Bale facing summer axe by Real Madrid

Gareth Bale on the attack against the MLS All-Stars at Soldier Field on August 2, 2017
Image: Gareth Bale is reportedly facing the chop at Real Madrid

The transfer window does not open until January 1, but clubs across Europe are busy planning and contacting the players they hope to sign.

Our friends at Football Whispers have scoured the European newspapers and websites to bring you the latest transfer gossip and news from the continent.

SPAIN

Gareth Bale is one of eight Real Madrid players who could be axed next summer. The reigning Spanish and European champions have endured a difficult start to the campaign, and the Welshman's injury struggles mean he could be let go in a squad refresh along with Lucas Vazquez, Dani Ceballos, Marcos Llorente, Kiko Casilla, Achraf Hakimi, Jesus Vallejo and Luka Modric. (Diario Gol)

Chelsea transfer target Marco Asensio has spoken out about his lack of a regular starting berth at Real Madrid, saying his situation is unlike Alvaro Morata's prior to the striker's summer departure for Chelsea.

"When [Morata] returned to Madrid…game time for him was important," he said. "I am only starting out my career, I'm a 21-year-old and cannot expect to be playing every match." (Marca)

Real Madrid's Spanish midfielder Marco Asensio celebrates after scoring a goal during the Spanish league football match Real Madrid CF vs UD Las Palmas at
Image: Marco Asensio is angry at not starting more often for Real Madrid

Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi's name has emerged in Real Madrid transfer rumours of late, with former Italy striker and pundit Daniele Massaro saying: "I can tell you today that Mauro Icardi will be a Real Madrid striker next year. His arrival will be at the expense of (Karim) Benzema." (Marca)

ITALY

Barcelona target Antoine Griezmann is also now on the radar of PSG. The Parisians have emerged as rivals for the player's signature and could look to add him to an attacking pool that already contains Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Edinson Cavani. (Calciomercato)

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MADRID, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 27:  Antoine Griezmann of Atletico de Madrid in action during the UEFA Champions League group C match between Atletico Madrid and
Image: PSG have now joined the race for Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann

Former AC Milan and Italy right-back Massimo Oddo has been confirmed as Udinese's new head coach following the dismissal of Luigi Del Neri.

It is hoped that Oddo can push the team further away from the Serie A relegation zone. (Football Italia)

Paris Saint-Germain starlet Christopher N'Kunku has told the club that he wishes to move on in January in search of more first-team opportunities.

The youngster has managed just 22 minutes of game time this season and, with Fulham and Queens Park Rangers interested, could be set for a move to England. (Calciomercato)

GERMANY

Manchester United target Mesut Ozil could be on his way back to Schalke. The German club's chairman Clemens Tonnies stated: "I could very well imagine a return, especially with Mesut Özil. If it fits all sides, it would be a nice story." The Arsenal man's contract expires next summer, meaning he could leave on a free transfer. (Kicker)

Mesut Ozil's current contract at Arsenal is due to expire next summer
Image: Schalke want to re-sign Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil next summer

FRANCE

Moussa Dembele has been linked to several Premier League clubs since joining Celtic last summer. He has scored frequently in Scotland and most recently was suggested to be an Everton transfer target.

However, it is now being reported that Paris Saint-Germain are tracking the striker closely, with sporting director Antero Henrique having previously looked into signing the player during his time at Porto. (L'Equipe)

Moussa Dembele celebrates after scoring Celtic's second goal
Image: Could Celtic striker Moussa Dembele be on his way to Everton next season?

Alphonse Areola may be ahead of Kevin Trapp in PSG's goalkeeping pecking order, but the club reportedly tried to sign another shot-stopper in the summer.

Napoli's Jose Reina was their primary target and, though he ultimately opted to remain in Italy, it is yet to be seen if the French side will make a move for another goalkeeper in the near future. (Le Parisien)

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