Transfer Talk: Arsenal and Manchester United to battle for Dani Alves; Courtois linked with Real Madrid; Southampton want Gignac

A look at today's top transfer rumours

Courtois

Thibaut Courtois has been linked with a summer move to Real Madrid. The Belgium international spent three seasons on loan in the Spanish capital with Atletico but according to the Daily Star he could return to the city with Real Madrid. It's reported that the reigning Spanish champions see the 22-year-old Chelsea stopper as an alternative to David De Gea, who has now opened talks with Manchester United over a new contract.

Andre-Pierre Gignac was linked with a host of sides during the January transfer window thanks to a fine season thus far with Marseille in which he has scored 14 goals from 24 appearances. No move happened but with his contract due to expire at the end of the season clubs are continuing to be linked and the latest is Southampton. The Daily Mirror claim Ronald Koeman is a fan of the 29-year-old Frenchman, although he faces competition from West Ham and Everton.

Kevin Mirallas' Everton future continues to look uncertain, despite Roberto Martinez insisting he has no problem with the forward's latest comments. On the eve of the Merseyside derby the Belgian gave an interview in which he indicated he was ready for a "new challenge". That he was replaced by Aaron Lennon during the 0-0 draw with Liverpool perhaps hinted at the future at Goodison Park. Mirallas looked to qualify his words by saying: “I have never said I absolutely want to leave Everton. I like it over here. I’ll make a decision after the season. I like the Premier League, but Spain also tempts me.”

Dani Alves has indicated he will not renew his contract at Barcelona meaning he is a free agent in the summer. According to reports there could be quite a battle on for his services. The Daily Express claim Manchester United are ready to offer the Brazilian a huge £100,000-a-week contract to move to Old Trafford. The pacey right-back has also been linked with Arsenal.

Barcelona defender Dani Alves (Getty Images)

James Milner, another player out of contract in the summer, is being urged to stay at Manchester City by his team-mate Pablo Zabaleta. The England international is apparently keen for more regular game time and has been linked with Liverpool and Arsenal. "His commitment and his passion have always been fantastic for this club and this team," said Zabaleta. "He is a player who can play in different positions, he is a great professional, and a fantastic lad. Hopefully he can sign a new deal and stay with us for many years."