Real Madrid defender Raul Asencio reportedly rejected approaches from Liverpool and Chelsea this summer, according to Marca, as the latest newspaper headlines also focus on Manchester United’s international-break plans, Eddie Howe’s next move and transfer developments in England and Scotland.

Asencio turns down Premier League interest

Spanish newspaper Marca reports that Raul Asencio rejected interest from both Liverpool and Chelsea during the summer transfer window. The report places the Real Madrid defender among the players who attracted attention from leading Premier League clubs but remained with the Spanish giants.

Manchester United plan Ratcliffe-linked friendly

Manchester United are expected to play a behind-closed-doors friendly against Lausanne-Sport during the international break, The Telegraph reports. Lausanne-Sport is another club owned by United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Howe is taking a break from football

Eddie Howe currently has no plans to return to management after leaving Newcastle and is enjoying a break, according to The Telegraph. The newspaper also reports that the Football Association had previously considered the possibility of appointing Howe as England manager.

Willock linked with move to Turkey

Besiktas president Serdal Adali has vowed to pursue Newcastle midfielder Joe Willock in January. According to talkSPORT, Adali claimed that the English midfielder has already chosen a new home in Turkey, although the report describes the move as a future transfer pursuit rather than a completed deal.

Ferguson denies being close to Bologna exit

Lewis Ferguson has said he was never close to leaving Bologna this summer, despite reports linking him with a move to his boyhood club Rangers, the BBC reports.

Roma receive stadium approval

Roma have received official permission to proceed with plans for a new stadium project valued at £1.2bn, The Sun reports.

Newcastle Red Bulls delay Fineanganofo signing

In rugby union, Newcastle Red Bulls are set to postpone the signing of Fehi Fineanganofo to give him the opportunity to compete for a place in New Zealand’s squad for next year’s World Cup, according to The Times.