Transfer talk: Sterling is Bayern’s back-up plan

Real Madrid aren't the only European megapower keeping an eye on Raheem Sterling.

German champions Bayern Munich are also interested in the Liverpool star, whose contract talks have reportedly stalled with the player unhappy with the Reds' latest offer. Munich's first choice, however, remains Dortmund midfielder Marco Reus, with Sterling seen as a back-up plan should the German international opt to leave the Bundesliga. (Daily Mail) It doesn't look like there will be any easy escape from Liverpool for Mario Balotelli after former boss Roberto Mancini said he has not been in touch with the striker. The pair won a title at Manchester City before both were moved on, with Mancini now in charge at Inter, but the Italian says Balotelli is not on his radar. (Express) Arsenal are plotting a two-for-one Italian order. Arsene Wenger wants to bring Roma forward Mattia Destro and Napoli midfielder Marek Hamsik to north London and is willing to shell out a combined £50million to get it done. (Daily Star) Wesley Sneijder has told Galatasaray bosses that he is desperate to leave the Turkish club in January, pricking the ears of Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal. The midfield schemer will reportedly be allowed to leave for a fee of around £9million, sparking a competition for his services that will also include another Dutchman - Southampton manager Ronald Koeman. (Daily Mail) Sneijder may be getting on a bit at 30 years of age, but United are also looking to boost their youth ranks with a double swoop for Belgian brothers Indy and Seppe Boonen. The pair are just 15 and 13 years old respectively. Van Gaal has clinched the signature of another 15-year-old, Portuguese winger Venancio da Silva Monteiro. (Daily Mail) Alex Song has given West Ham hope they might be able to sign the on-loan midfielder to a permanent deal next summer. The former Arsenal and Barcelona player would prefer to playing Champions League footbal, but he told a French newspaper: 'I want to stay here. There were offers on the table from clubs in Italy, France and Turkey. People ask me why I joined West Ham, but I don’t regret it.' (Mirror)