With the transfer window now open the rumour mill is in overdrive, so with that in mind, we take a look at the top stories doing the rounds in the media today.

GUANGZHOU TO RIVAL UNITED FOR BALE

Chinese Super League side Guangzhou Evergrande are plotting a sensational move for Real Madrid star Gareth Bale, according to the Mirror.

Guangzhou will reportedly meet Real’s £85million valuation with Manchester United long-standing admirers of the 28-year-old Wales international.

RATING: 6/10

VERDICT

New tax rules in China have been installed in an attempt to stem the flow of mega money leaving the country but it’s not stopping rumours like this.

The injury-ravaged Bale has seen his Los Blancos career curtailed by extended spells on the sidelines and China’s richest club are hoping they can reignite his career and unite him with coach Fabio Cannavaro.

However, it’s a fair assessment to say that if Bale is to leave Madrid it would only be for United.

ARSENAL ARE GUNNING FOR MAHREZ

The Mirror are reporting Alexis Sanchez’s move to Manchester City will be sanctioned should Arsenal successfully manage to bring Leicester City flier Riyad Mahrez to the Emirates Stadium.

Arsene Wenger has switched his attentions to the Algeria winger with Monaco man Thomas Lemar a key target for Premier League rivals Liverpool.

RATING: 7/10

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An archetypal Wenger player, Mahrez would provide the perfect counterbalance to a Sanchez exit. The Chilean’s form has been dire as he seeks to push through a move to City and contrast that to Mahrez who has been excellent this season despite an impending exit, a character swap could be the boost Arsenal need.

A failed deal for Lemar in the summer scuppered Sanchez’s switch to Manchester and by all accounts if the 22-year-old does leave Monaco it will be to Liverpool, forcing Wenger to rethink his next move.

From blue to red? Leicester City’s Riyad Mahrez

WOODBURN LOAN DELAYED

Ben Woodburn’s loan move from Liverpool to Sunderland is delayed due to Philippe Coutinho’s switch to Barcelona, the Daily Mail reports.

The 18-year-old was all set to join the Championship club before Cotuinho’s sale and Mohamed Salah’s injury.

RATING: 7/10

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Woodburn was made available for loan by the Reds to get crucial first-team experience and Sunderland jumped at the chance.

But it seems he could be set to stay at Anfield with Jurgen Klopp blocking the move as he seeks reinforcements for his attacking artillery.

Staying put: Liverpool’s Ben Woodburn