EXCL: Evan Ferguson to Chelsea or Man Utd? Plus Ben White contract update, Bundesliga star could move in 2024, Marcelo Gallardo to Al Ittihad, and more

Today's column, featuring the managerial merry-go-round and latest transfer news.

Marcelo Gallardo closing in on Al Ittihad job

Marcelo Gallardo to Al Ittihad - here we go! The former River Plate manager has completed an agreement to take over the Saudi Pro League club on a deal valid until 2025, with the option to extend the deal for a further two years. The agreement is done, everything is signed between Gallardo and Al Ittihad - the Argentine is now travelling to Saudi and it will be made official soon.

Gallardo had many opportunities in Europe in recent years, but he’s now heading to Saudi, where he will be one of the top five best paid managers in the world. It’s a big contract, a big salary, and a big opportunity for him in the Saudi league.

Al Ittihad are also looking for a new director of football, with AC Milan legend Paolo Maldini in talks with the club, though that’s not yet a done deal. Gallardo is, though, and it’s quite a statement by Al Ittihad as they bring in a very highly rated coach to add to their signings of Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante and Fabinho over the summer.

No changes to Carlo Ancelotti’s situation

Another big story in the managerial merry-go-round is with Carlo Ancelotti, as I’m aware there have been some reports about Real Madrid opening talks over a new two-year deal with the Italian tactician.