Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres has opened up about his chances of leaving the Gunners, following a summer of speculation.

The Swede played 36 times in the Premier League last term, as Arsenal won the Premier League for the first time in 22 years – but manager Mikel Arteta hasn't granted him a start in the competition this term, with Kai Havertz preferred up front.

Despite scoring 21 goals in all competitions for the Gunners last term, Gyokeres was heavily linked with an exit after just 12 months over the summer – and speaking now, he hasn't closed the door on departing, should he continue on the bench.

Viktor Gyokeres: 'I am fully focused on Arsenal - of course you expect more playing time'

Gyokeres arrived at Arsenal last summer with high hopes after scoring 97 goals in 102 games at Sporting, firing the Lisbon outfit to back-to-back league titles.

The 28-year-old has struggled somewhat, however, with Arteta's demands to hold the ball up, with his aerial ability and link-up play paling in comparison to both Havertz and auxiliary centre-forward Mikel Merino.

Speaking while on international duty with Sweden, Gyokeres has now addressed rumours that he was close to leaving North London over the summer.

"Of course, there was a lot of speculation,” he said, “But I had a full pre-season, and it felt good. I was fully focused on Arsenal. For me, staying was a given. I'm extremely happy at the club.”

The striker was quick to point out, though, that while he enjoys being a member of a competitive squad, he would prefer to be starting more often than he has been.

"It's clear that I want to play football as much as possible,” he continued. “Hopefully that will come, too. You always want to be on the field as a football player.

“Of course, you expect more playing time, but we have an extremely good squad with a lot of good players and have been doing well here at the start."

FourFourTwo understands that Gyokeres was a candidate to leave over the summer – potentially to Atletico Madrid – but ultimately, the club decided to cash in on Gabriel Martinelli, given that he would command a higher transfer fee.

Fellow forwards Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard also left N5, along with Ethan Nwaneri on loan to Borussia Dortmund, leaving Arteta short of numbers in attack.

Gyokeres is valued at €65 million by Transfermarkt. Arsenal play Leeds when the international break ends and Premier League action resumes.

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland could leave following an independent commission finding the club guilty of all charges related to breaches of Premier League financial rules.

Yesterday, the Premier League confirmed the verdict, noting that “Manchester City failed to accurately report its income and expenditure for the purposes of the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules and UEFA’s Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play Rules” in a damning statement that used the word “sham” five times.

It leaves the future of the Citizens in doubt – with Erling Haaland, in particular, the highest-profile star who could well push for an exit.

Erling Haaland has given the nod to Barcelona - with Manchester City in disarray

According to Football Insider, it is “inconceivable” that the Norwegian superstar remains at the Etihad Stadium, should they be forcibly relegated from the Premier League.

Haaland has scored 117 goals in 137 fixtures for the Sky Blues and won two league titles since joining in 2022 from Borussia Dortmund – but Barcelona have had previous talks with the star about him moving to Catalonia.

Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo have previously claimed that Barça intended for the Scandi striker to replace Robert Lewandowski, opening talks with then-agent, the late Mino Raiola, in April 2021.

According to the report, Haaland was “very excited” to join the club and indicated he would be happy to sign for the Blaugrauna in 2022.

“In fact, in March 2022, [then-manager] Xavi Hernandez travelled to Munich to meet with him in person and finish explaining the project,” the report notes, adding, “However, the Norwegian said ‘yes’ to Barça for the following season” – meaning that he would have joined in 2023.

Another Spanish outlet, Sport, has since insisted that Haaland would prioritise moving to Barcelona – which would put the 26-year-old opposite Kylian Mbappe in El Clasico clashes.

Whether or not Barcelona would still explore a deal remains to be seen: over the summer, the Catalan giants refused to pay big money for Haaland's former team-mate, Julian Alvarez, given that they didn't see the need to invest in attack – and that's certainly not changed, with Raphinha reborn as a No.9.

But Haaland is a very different prospect, and a gilt-edged opportunity to sign arguably the best player on the planet is one that president Joan Laporte is unlikely to pass up.

With City potentially needing to sell their best player, too, FourFourTwo believes that Barça would be at the front of the queue alongside the likes of Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich.

The Norwegian is valued at €220 million, according to Transfermarkt. City play Liverpool when Premier League action resumes after the international break.

Liverpool have been given fresh hope of landing Alex Scott next summer from Bournemouth.

The Reds have started the season positively and are yet to lose a game under new manager Andoni Iraola, but the midfield remains a concern, with Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister all forward-thinking players in the centre of the park.

While youngster Trey Nyoni has featured in central midfield for Liverpool in recent weeks, it may well take a new signing to regenerate the engine room – and Iraola may get to reunite with Scott, following the pair's time together at Bournemouth.

Bournemouth working on conditional clause for Alex Scott, that would see Liverpool able to sign him

According to TEAMtalk, the Cherries have sent numerous proposals to Scott to renew his contract, with his current contract – signed in 2023 – set to enter its final year next summer.

While Bournemouth have collected big fees over the last couple of years for Antoine Semenyo, Dominic Solanke, Milos Kerkez, Dean Huijsen and Ilya Zabarnyi, they run the risk of having to sell the Guernsey schemer for a reduced price, and are keen to sign him to a deal that ensures a release clause has to be met in order to sign him.

According to the report from TEAMtalk, this has alerted Liverpool, who have joined Chelsea in the race for the 23-year-old.

The Blues were particularly interested in Scott over the summer but were rebuffed, as Bournemouth didn't want to lose one of their key players ahead of playing European football this term on the south coast.

The midfielder has continued the excellent form he displayed in the second half of last season under new manager Marco Rose, and has been rewarded with a second call-up to the England national team, where he is yet to feature for Thomas Tuchel.

FourFourTwo understands that Bournemouth see January as a target to get Scott signed up by, as they look to avoid a scenario like last year.

The Dorset outfit lost Semenyo to Manchester City in the winter transfer window – though did manage to remain unbeaten for the rest of the Premier League campaign and record their highest-ever finish of sixth under Iraola.

With the Basque's new squad currently learning his specific methods and demands out of possession, it is unlikely that the Merseysiders will challenge for the Premier League crown, with the squad in transition and adapting slowly – but Scott may well help with that, should he arrive in January, or even next summer.

The midfielder has plenty of experience working with Iraola, understands his methods, and still under 25, can learn further and develop into a complete midfielder at Anfield.

Scott is worth €50 million, according to Transfermarkt. Liverpool face Man City when the international break concludes and Premier League action returns.

Talks for a Manchester City player to leave have begun, following last week's bombshell that the club have been found guilty of 114 breaches of Premier League rules.

Although Manchester City are expected to appeal the Premier League's decision, speculation and uncertainty hang over the club, with the Citizens' future remaining unclear.

In the meantime, City have received an offer for one of their players – in what the club hope will not be the start of an exodus.

Manchester City star could leave in January on loan

On the field at least, new manager Enzo Maresca has started brightly despite a Community Shield loss, seizing 15 points from 15 in the Premier League securing passage to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup and winning their first came in the Champions League.

The Italian has gotten to grips with his new squad and stamped his authority on the team – but just two senior players left at the club have failed to make a Premier League appearance thus far, with one of them being backup goalkeeper, Geronimo Rulli.

The other is Rayan Ait-Nouri, who joined from Wolverhampton Wanderers last summer and made just 15 league appearances in Pep Guardiola's final season, with academy graduate Nico O'Reilly taking the left-back spot ahead of him.

With Maresca claiming earlier this season that “I see him more as a winger than full-back,” the Algerian international has a tough task fighting his way into his new boss's plans, with Gazzetta dello Sport reporting that he is a target for Juventus.

Sport Witness have relayed the news, noting that the Old Lady have spoken to the player's entourage and that, “They would like to offer an option to buy, with Ait-Nouri desperate to become a key player.”

FourFourTwo understands that part of Maresca's initial reluctance to seriously integrate Ait-Nouri was down to his profile, with the former Chelsea manager preferring full-backs capable of inverting.

The 25-year-old may not be the first-choice option should he move to Turin either, though, with Andrea Cambiaso likely to feature ahead of him in the pecking order.

Signing for City for a reported £31 million, Ait-Nouri went to the Club World Cup with his new club last summer and looked set to hold down the left-back spot, with Josko Gvardiol moving centrally.

While a Wolves player, the France-born defender had an almost unblemished injury record, but an ankle injury ruled him out for almost two months last autumn, and he never recovered his place as Guardiola's starting left-back.

Ait-Nouri is worth €40m, according to Transfermarkt. City face Liverpool when Premier League action resumes after the international break.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk is to leave the Reds on a free transfer after nine years of service at Anfield.

That's according to a new report, which says that the Dutchman is set to swap Liverpool for Milan “sooner rather than later” – and that a big replacement is already being lined up to take his place at the heart of manager Andoni Iraola's defence.

Van Dijk became the most expensive defender in the world when he swapped Southampton for Anfield, but now 35, his current contract expires at the end of the season.

Liverpool launching move for Premier League rival to replace Virgil van Dijk

Van Dijk has started the season strongly under Iraola alongside new signing Jeremy Jacquet, who is 14 years his junior.

According to veteran Italian journalist Carlo Pellegatti, via Football Italia, the Dutch captain is set to move to Milan next summer, noting, ““Every now and then, people make fun of me for saying Van Dijk would join, but then they [did] the same the January before Zlatan Ibrahimovic arrived.”

“[Milan owner] Gerry Cardinale made clear: ‘Either we get him now by paying or next year for free,’” Pellegatti added, “I said that Van Dijk will arrive at Milan sooner or later.”

According to CaughtOffside, meanwhile, Liverpool are looking at bringing in Tottenham Hotspur captain Micky van de Ven as Van Dijk's replacement.

The 25-year-old plays alongside the Liverpool man for the Netherlands and not only is he capable of playing at left-back – a problem position for the Reds of late – he possesses the kind of recovery pace that could help Iraola to implement his high-risk high press.

Despite back-to-back 17th-placed finishes, Van de Ven is one of Spurs' better players and with the Lilywhites struggling again this season – finding themselves winless after five fixtures – the skipper may look to pastures new this summer.

FourFourTwo understands that Liverpool have admired the defender for a while, while CaughtOffside adds Manchester United to the mix as another Premier League rival interested in the star.

Van de Ven will surely not come cheap, however: the former Wolfsburg man is contracted in N17 until 2031, having signed an extension to his deal over the summer.

Both the Spurs man and Van Dijk are currently on international duty with the Oranje under new boss Xavi Hernandez.

Van de Ven is worth €50 million, according to Transfermarkt. Liverpool host Manchester City when Premier League action returns following the international break.

Liverpool are monitoring the availability of Atletico Madrid star Marcos Llorente, whose Anfield goalscoring exploits have terrorised the Reds on many Champions League occasions.

His latest strike arrived in the 17th minute during Liverpool’s league phase match-up with the La Liga side in early September, sending Atletico Madrid 1-0 ahead.

Last term, Llorente bagged two in a 3-2 defeat at Anfield; now, the Reds are exploring the possibility of bringing Atletico Madrid’s man to Merseyside, with two other Premier League clubs also interested.

Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea explore move for Anfield nightmare Marcos Llorente

According to TEAMtalk, the Spaniard is attracting interest from Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea, as he enters the final months of his Atletico Madrid contract.

Llorente has made over 300 appearances for Diego Simeone’s side, and his ability to operate in both midfield and at right-back has attracted potential Premier League suitors.

Liverpool and Chelsea are two such clubs assessing their options in both areas of the pitch, with Llorente’s versatility appealing to both English top-flight sides.

Elsewhere, Manchester City are looking to expand their veteran core under Enzo Maresca. In this case, the Spaniard’s age, 31, is attractive to the Cityzens.

Similarly, neither Andoni Iraola’s side or the Blues are put off by Llorente’s birthday, who turns 31 in January, with it being described as “not significant” to their Premier League transfer pursuits.

Beyond the Premier League, both La Liga and Bundesliga champions Barcelona and Bayern Munich are believed to be keeping close eyes on the Spaniard.

The now 31-year-old, who stepped away from World Cup winners Spain this summer, joined from Real Madrid in 2019 for a fee of €30 million.

A transfer for Llorente will likely be difficult to pull off, with Atletico Madrid being determined to secure his future in Spain.

There is belief internally that he will sign a new contract, however, the 31-year-old’s camp are aware of growing interest in Llorente across Europe.

Whether Simeone’s side can tie the 31-year-old down remains to be seen, however, the club has entered fresh talks with the Spaniard.

He has scored ten Champions League goals across his career, five of which have arrived against Liverpool, and four at Anfield.

Former England midfield man Dele Alli has been a free agent for the last year but has been aiming to keep himself fit in an effort to revive his career.

Alli left Serie A upstarts Como last autumn after making a single appearance under Cesc Fabregas, the latest in a string of abortive moves since leaving Tottenham Hotspur in 2022.

The 30-year-old spent seven years at Spurs after joining from Milton Keynes Dons in 2018 as one of the most exciting young prospects in English football.

Dele Alli is training at Barnet

He recently shared a video of himself training alone at the facilities of League Two outfit Barnet, where manager Dean Brennan has unexpectedly raised the possibility of the unsigned star taking his programme a step further.

Speaking to Alan Brazil and Gabby Agbonlahor on talkSPORT, Brennan extended an offer to Alli that he might very well be interested in taking up.

Pick the ultimate 4-4-2 line-up from players in FourFourTwo's definitive Top 100 List

"Our facilities are available to rent," explained the Bees boss when asked about Alli training at The Hive.

"We don’t live in Disneyland down at our level so our lads have to pay their bills, pay their mortgage and we don’t get 10,000, 20,000 [on the gate] a game. So renting our facilities out was part of the business process at our place and it looks like Dele’s done just that.

"I’ll take him all day long. You would be mad not to take him. He’s a serious footballer and look, he’s going through a real tough time. There’s obviously some kind of issue why people haven’t taken him on. Everyone deserves a second chance in life.

"At our football club we have lots of lads that train with us that are out of contract and if Dele wants to come train with us the doors are open. He can use us to get fit and train with the group."

Barnet are the unbeaten leaders of the fourth tier after seven matches. Their games against Crawley Town and York City over the next two Saturdays have both been postponed due to international call-ups.

Alli hasn't played competitively since he was sent off on his single, brief appearance for Como against AC Milan in March 2025.

The former Everton midfielder, who has 37 senior caps for England, had signed for Fabregas' side two months earlier on what was originally an 18-month contract.

He was released and left the Italian team last September, and has yet to secure a new club.

Nottingham Forest captain Morgan Gibbs-White is reportedly open to leaving the club next summer.

Gibbs-White secured a belated call-up to the current England squad after a number of players withdrew through injury. The 26-year-old was widely considered the most unjustified omission from the original 27-player selection.

He's been in impressive and productive form for Forest both in the calendar year overall and in the early part of the new season. As a player in demand, it was by no means certain he'd still be playing for Forest in 2026/27.

'Several leading clubs' are interested in Morgan Gibbs-White

Interest in the former Wolverhampton Wanderers youngster is plentiful, and Football Insider has claimed anew to have been told that Gibbs-White could push to leave Forest at the end of the season.

"The attacking midfielder is understood to be happy to stay at the City Ground if they can secure European football again, but is likely to look elsewhere if not," reports Pete O'Rourke.

"Sources say that several leading Premier League clubs are keen to offer him a move within the next 12 months, and an opportunity to play at the elite European level would be "hard to ignore" for the player.

"Gibbs-White is currently the highest-paid player in Forest's squad, but there is an element of uncertainty surrounding his contract situation.

"His current deal is due to expire in the summer of 2028, after Forest were only able to get him to commit to a three-year deal last summer."

Gibbs-White's 2025/26 performances were produced in the wake of a dramatic summer at the City Ground, where Forest were bumped up to the Europa League after Crystal Palace were demoted, but had to dig in to keep their captain.

Tottenham Hotspur triggered a £60 million release clause in his previous contract, sparking an angry reaction from Forest and owner Evangelos Marinakis, a threat of legal action and, ultimately, a shocking non-departure.

Gibbs-White helped Forest to reach the semi-finals of the Europa League despite working their way through four managers last season, and has hit the ground running this time around.

He started all five Premier League matches before the international break, scoring once and assisting two of Forest's four league goals.

After making his first two senior international appearances under interim boss Lee Carsley, Gibbs-White collected his next four caps on Tuchel's watch but hasn't played for the Three Lions since last October.

Manchester United have been handed a boost in their long-standing pursuit of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

United have been linked with De Jong for years and could finally have their chance to take the 29-year-old to Old Trafford.

According to reports in Spain, Barcelona sporting director Deco plans to bolster Hansi Flick's defence in the January transfer window. Consequently, the Catalan giants will need to make a big concession.

Barcelona 'need to sell' in January

"The club finished the summer having invested €174 million in signings and generating €104 million in revenue from transfers and economic rights," reports Fichajes.

"Planning is not yet complete, and defence has become a key focus in the analysis for the second half of the season.

Pick the ultimate 4-4-2 line-up from players in FourFourTwo's definitive Top 100 List

"The economic situation will dictate any move. La Liga has set a squad cost limit of €582 million for FC Barcelona for the 2026/27 season, compared to the €432 million limit after the previous winter transfer window."

Barcelona's position, therefore, is that they need to sell to buy. If Deco is to be able to bring in a defender of the kind of quality required to improve a team still on a perfect start seven games into the season, they need to sell big.

De Jong is yet to play this season and will face a battle to win his place back in a winning side. He is nearing a return from a knee ligament injury he sustained during his World Cup campaign with the Netherlands, and will be assessed by Barcelona after the international break.

Man United and De Jong has seemed like a destined romance at times over the years. The Red Devils are understood to have tracked him throughout his time at Ajax and have repeatedly been credited with an interest in signing him from Barcelona.

The Dutch midfielder was in United's sights in 2024, with his contract set to expire in the summer of 2026. He has since signed an extension that ties him to the Catalan club until 2029.

De Jong joined Barcelona from Ajax in 2019 and has played for them almost 300 times, winning three league titles and establishing himself as a senior figure in the national team.

He played 38 club matches in all competitions in 2025/26 and started all six of the Netherlands' matches at the World Cup, where they were ultimately eliminated on penalties – after he'd been substituted in extra time – by Morocco.

De Jong has now played 70 times for his country but will miss the start of their Nations League campaign this month and next.

Alejandro Garnacho is facing an Aston Villa exit already.

That's according to a new report, which says that the Argentine isn't favoured by manager Unai Emery, and has been offered an exit route from the Midlands already.

Aston Villa signed Garnacho on loan from Chelsea with a £43 million buy clause over the summer, but with the winger limited to just half an hour in claret-and-blue so far, it appears his Premier League career is spiralling.

Alejandro Garnacho given Aston Villa exit route already

Garnacho broke through at Manchester United as a teenager, but signed for Chelsea last summer in a cut-price deal, and failed to establish himself under either Enzo Maresca or his successor, Liam Rosenior.

While the Blues signed Morgan Rogers for a club-record fee in the summer, Villa took Nicolas Jackson and Garnacho off new manager Xabi Alonso's hands – but fellow Basque boss Emery has instead favoured youngster George Hemmings on the left flank.

The Mail have reported that Spanish clubs are already eyeing a move for the 22-year-old, who is already considering his future after a lack of opportunities thus far.

The situation has clear parallels with another signing that didn't work out in the shape of Harvey Elliott, who joined the Villains on loan from Liverpool with an option to buy last summer.

When it became clear that the eventual Europa League winners would have to fork out £35 million to make the move permanent, the Reds midfielder made just four Premier League appearances and was frozen out of Emery's plans – somewhat controversially, to some fans, given his clear potential.

While the conditions of Garnacho's move to Villa are undisclosed, it appears as if history is repeating if Emery has no intention to play the winger – though the situation differs slightly from Elliott's.

Given that Elliott had already appeared for Liverpool by the time he made the move to Villa, he was ineligible to play for a third club when the January transfer window came around.

Garnacho, however, hasn't played for Chelsea this season – meaning that a January move is still possible.

The Madrid-born forward is worth €28m, according to Transfermarkt. Villa host Brentford when Premier League action resumes after the international break.

Arsenal star Jurrien Timber has missed group training on international duty with the Netherlands.

The news may come as a concern to Arsenal fans, who have only just welcomed the full-back back to the fold in the last few Premier League matches.

Timber even missed the midweek Carabao Cup clash away to Ipswich Town last week, as he steps up his return from injury.

Mikel Arteta has a problem with Arsenal right-back workloads

After picking up an injury in the run-in of Arsenal's Premier League-winning season, Timber returned to the bench for the Champions League final, but wasn't fit enough to go to the World Cup with the Netherlands.

The Dutchman has been stepping up his recovery at the start of the season, with Ben White featuring at right-back – but now, White has picked up another injury on the cusp of the international break.

As reported by Voetbal International via Sport Witness, Timbers' native Netherlands, the Gunners have been liaising with new Oranje coach Xavi Hernandez over a modified schedule for Timber, with the defender sitting out of group training recently.

This individual programme suggests that the star won't be risked against Germany this week, after completing an hour against Brighton & Hove Albion – a fixture in which Declan Rice moved to right-back.

Now, however, Rice has also been sidelined through injury, pulling out of Thomas Tuchel's England squad.

This leaves the Gunners short on cover at right-back, with Cristian Mosquera still out with a knee problem and William Saliba's back injury meaning that new signing Ezri Konsa has played exclusively in the centre since joining over the summer.

Bruno Guimaraes, meanwhile, has had a slow start to his career in N5 after picking up a knock in the first Premier League fixture of the season at home to Coventry City.

The champions have picked up 12 points from a possible 15 after defeat at the Amex on Saturday afternoon, with this three-week break giving Arteta a chance to get players back from injury.

Timber is worth €65 million, as per Transfermarkt. Arsenal take on Leeds United when Premier League action returns after the international break.

Arsenal star Viktor Gyokeres is edging towards a January exit.

The Swede signed for the Gunners last summer as a long-awaited focal point in attack to spearhead manager Mikel Arteta's side – and his first season back in English football was, on paper at least, a success.

But though Gyokeres netted 21 goals in all competitions and was Arsenal's top scorer, as they won a first Premier League title in 22 years and reached just a second-ever Champions League final, it hasn't all been plain sailing.

Viktor Gyokeres' Arsenal exit gathers pace, as Milan plan 'expensive' move

Despite his healthy goal return as Emirates Stadium no.9, Gyokeres has been criticised at times over the last 12 months for his all-round game, with his hold-up play and aerial threat severely lacking.

FourFourTwo understands that the 28-year-old was touted for sale over the summer – and with Arteta opting not to bring Gyokeres off the bench in the Premier League before the transfer window closed, Kai Havertz has been preferred in attack.

PianetaMilan reports that Milan are weighing up a move for the centre-forward, with exploratory contact explored.

The Rossoneri signed Goncalo Ramos over the summer but the Portuguese has struggled to hit the ground running – and new manager Ruben Amorim can certainly unlock the best of Gyokeres, as proven during his stint at Sporting.

The Swedish international struck 97 times in 102 matches in Lisbon, with a league return in Portugal of better than a goal-a-game, prompting Arsenal to secure him as a much-needed killer in attack.

Gyokeres' poor appearances in Europe and the Carabao Cup, however, have suggested that Havertz is the undisputed first-choice centre-forward at Arsenal, while Mikel Merino also offers presence in attack.

FourFourTwo understands that Arsenal are still keen to improve in attack, with Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard all departing over the summer – and only Christos Tzolis replacing the trio.

This new report suggests that Milan would like a loan deal, with the 28-year-old unhappy with his lack of playing time – and FourFourTwo believes that the player himself would rather play elsewhere than sit on a bench for the Premier League champions.

Arteta is still interested in Julian Alvarez, who has yet to be fully reintegrated at Atletico Madrid, and Barcelona have cooled their interest.

Gyokeres is worth €65 million, as per Transfermarkt. Arsenal take on Leeds United when Premier League action returns after the international break.

Arsenal have been given fresh optimism of signing a striker in the January transfer window.

After winning all six of their opening fixtures of the season in all competitions, Arsenal came unstuck at the Amex at the weekend, with a 3-0 loss to a rampant Brighton & Hove Albion, highlighting some of the underlying issues that the Gunners have had despite great early-season form.

While not solely the reason for the defeat, manager Mikel Arteta had a distinct lack of pace in his frontline and from the bench, while Kai Havertz missed a one-on-one late on to salvage a consolation goal.

Arsenal could be back in for Julian Alvarez

Arsenal keenly pursued Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid over the summer, but the Argentine chose to remain in Spain, after practically burning bridges with his employers to force a move to Barcelona, which never materialised.

With Atleti flat-out refusing to sell to Barça, the Catalan giants pivoted and have fielded Raphinha as a centre-forward instead, to spectacular effect: the Brazilian has 14 goals in just eight games this season, with the Blaugrana having netted 31 times in seven La Liga fixtures.

According to Fichajes in Spain, Hansi Flick's side have moved on from the idea of signing Alvarez with pressing concerns elsewhere in the team – especially in defence, with a lack of options at centre-back.

The former Manchester City striker, meanwhile, has started just once for Diego Simeone since the World Cup – the opening Champions League loss to Liverpool – with Los Colchoneros winning the Madrid Derby at the weekend with summer signings Kang-in Lee and Jonathan David paired in attack.

The situation certainly gives Arsenal hope that a midseason move could suit all parties: with Alvarez clearly unhappy at the Metropolitano and Raphinha on fire, Arsenal may well represent a sensible option, even on loan.

With Alvarez's value seemingly tanking by the week and Arsenal keen to add firepower, even a short-term move could help rehabilitate the 26-year-old's fortunes ahead of a potential summer move.

Arteta, meanwhile, appears to have lost confidence in Viktor Gyokeres, with the Swede yet to start a Premier League match this term and disappointing in his appearances in Europe and the Carabao Cup.

FourFourTwo understands that Arsenal are evaluating all options ahead of the winter transfer window, with Max Dowman's status within the squad a possible knock-on effect for any move.

The teenager was preferred off the bench to Noni Madueke on Saturday afternoon, but while a loan move of his own could provide him with significant minutes in his development, he may well grow in importance to a team who lost Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard in attack over the summer, replacing the trio with just Christos Tzolis.

Alvarez is worth €120 million, as per Transfermarkt. Arsenal take on Leeds United when Premier League action returns after the international break.

A Liverpool offer for a defensive midfielder has been revealed, with the Reds seemingly overrun in the engine room at the start of the season.

New manager Andoni Iraola has enjoyed an unbeaten start to his Anfield tenure – and hasn't lost in the Premier League since January – but there are huge concerns over his squad and the inbalance of profiles at the Basque's disposal.

With several big-money talents on the left and in attack, there are no qualms about Liverpool's attacking talent – but questions have been raised about how swamped the Merseysiders are in midfield.

Liverpool DO want a defensive midfielder - and have made a move

This weekend, Iraola fielded a double-pivot of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, in a 1-0 win over his former club Bournemouth.

Seeing Szoboszlai in a two-man midfield has become a fixture of the start of the season, with Reds one-club man Jamie Carragher critical of the club's set-up early in the Premier League season.

A new report from Tuttomercatoweb claims that the Reds made an offer to Aleksandar Stankovic over the summer, with the Inter Milan star having impressed last season at Club Brugge.

Stankovic – son of Inter legend Dejan – was apparently on the table as part of the deal that took Curtis Jones to San Siro, but with the Serbian wanting to remain at Inter, the move never materialised.

The Milan-born Serbian international midfielder has been on the periphery of the Nerazzurri's team this season, however, with a move for more playing time a possibility for January.

Liverpool currently have just Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister as their most senior defensive-minded central midfielders, with Trey Nyoni having impressed in glimpses this season, and FourFourTwo understanding that Iraola is keen to give him plenty of opportunities this term.

Despite bringing in the likes of Bradley Barcola, Victor Munoz and Jeremy Jacquet this summer to strengthen the first XI, Liverpool didn't land every target they set out to acquire.

Yankuba Minteh was high on the wish list to replace Mohamed Salah – but a move was difficult to navigate with the Gambian winger missing the start of the campaign through injury.

Liverpool also have concerns at full-back with 2025's marquee buys Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong both struggling in the early stages of the season.

Stankovic is worth €32 million, according to Transfermarkt. Liverpool take on Manchester City when Premier League action returns after the international break.

Arsenal are reportedly in talks with the camp of Real Madrid superstar Rodryo. The 25-year-old is back running after enduring an ACL tear in March.

Prior to his sidelining, the Brazilian was among the Gunners’ firmest targets for left-sided attackers. His return date has been tentatively pencilled in for January 2027.

Mikel Arteta’s side also entered talks with the 25-year-old’s fellow countryman and team-mate, Vinicius Junior, in the summer. Now, Arsenal appear to have been brought full-circle — back to Rodrygo.

Arsenal in talks with Rodrygo’s camp ahead of injury return and January window

If pursuing two of Real Madrid’s attacking Brazilians wasn’t enough, the Gunners also enquired previously about blossoming youngster Endrick. Now, it appears that only Rodrygo remains a realistic Arsenal target.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, the Gunners are in talks with the 25-year-old's camp ahead of his projected January 2027 return date; however, the Brazilian believes he can return sooner.

Real Madrid’s medical staff are behaving cautiously in their treatment of Rodrygo, with a ‘New Year’ return being targeted, but the 25-year-old is determined to beat that timeframe.

The Brazilian aims to be back on the pitch before Christmas, with Arsenal retaining strong interest in the La Liga star for his quality and versatility.

Merely two seasons ago, the 25-year-old recorded 13 goals and nine assists in 50 appearances for the Spanish club. Two terms prior, he bagged 30 contributions in 51.

Rodrygo is under contract until 2028, however, should the Real Madrid man return from injury prior to Christmas, Arsenal are set to make a move for the Brazilian as early as January.

The Gunners reinforced their left flank this summer by securing Christos Tzolis’ services, who has since recorded four assists in seven Arsenal appearances.

Elsewhere, the club allowed Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli — both left-sided attacking options — to depart from London, for the Super Lig and Saudi Pro League respectively.

Only Tzolis and Eberechi Eze stand out as clear options for Arsenal on the flank, as Mikel Arteta’s men pursue an unprecedented Premier League title defence.

Should they move in January, which appears likely, Rodrygo stands tall on the list of transfer options. Arsenal return to English top-flight action against Brighton on Saturday.

Manchester United have been rocked by a major off-field setback after 15-year-old prodigy JJ Gabriel submitted a formal request to leave the club, according to a report by the Telegraph.

Carrington’s standout academy talent has reportedly left the Old Trafford hierarchy in shock by seeking to cut short his development at one of English football's best youth setups.

The news follows a strong start to the 2026/27 campaign for Gabriel, who recently netted a debut hat-trick in the UEFA Youth League against Sabah FK's Under-19 side.

Manchester United set to lose star academy prospect

The teenage forward has built on an excellent season with Man United's U18s - in which he scored 28 goals in 35 matches - before making the transition to the U21s this term.

He has already pitched in with two goals and two assists in his first two outings in Premier League 2.

Gabriel's progress had put him on the cusp of first-team history, until this latest bombshell.

Having met Premier League age requirements by turning 15 prior to August 31, he is officially eligible for senior squad selection this season.

First-team manager Michael Carrick has routinely integrated him into senior training sessions, leading some fans to speculate on the possibility of a record-breaking senior bow before his 16th birthday in October.

However, that no longer looks as though it will be the case with Gabriel reportedly seeking an exit from the club.

The forward will not be short of suitors and there have in the past been rumours that Barcelona made overtures towards the player's family.

Under FA regulations, players cannot sign professional contracts until they turn 17, making Gabriel's connection to Manchester United one which is founded upon schoolboy academy registration terms.

Gabriel's camp has formally requested the cancellation of his registration, bypassing the usual procedures involved with football transfers.

It leaves Man United at risk of losing him for tribunal-set compensation rather than a lucrative fee.

Manchester United have been recruiting aggressively at youth level lately but what could be their next capture has a first-team feel to it.

The Red Devils are in initial talks for boyhood Man United supporter Louis Page, who currently represents Leicester City in League One, FourFourTwo understands.

Page, 18, has registered three assists in four league matches so far this term, including two in the Foxes' recent 4-3 win over Stockport County.

Man United eye Leicester wonderkid

The teenager has been one of the more redeemable aspects of Leicester's poor start to the 2026/27 campaign in the third tier, producing a series of standout performances for Russell Martin's ailing side.

Leicester climbed to 13th with victory at Edgeley Park last weekend but their record of two wins from six matches has them five points off the pace of league leaders Sheffield Wednesday.

Page is an England Under-19 international and has started four of Leicester's six league matches this term.

A creative, holding midfield player, Page signed a contract extension with the Foxes last September tying him to the club until June 2029, however, Leicester's financial situation may necessitate a sale in the near future, particularly if he continues his early season form.

It was rumoured that Page and family were guests of Manchester United for the recent 5-2 win over Ipswich Town, although that has not been confirmed by either club.

The left-footer has links to Manchester with father Don having spent much of his lower and non-league career representing clubs in the area.

Should Man United be successful with a formal approach in the coming months, it is likely Page will be loaned back to Leicester where he will continue his development in a familiar environment at the Foxes' state-of-the-art Seagrave training facility.

Lewis Hall has signed a contract extension at Newcastle United, with the Englishman, who has made 107 appearances for the Magpies since arriving in 2023, tied down until 2031.

Manchester United attempted to secure the left-back’s services this summer, having achieved Champions League football under Michael Carrick, and looking to go from strength-to-strength.

But as Hall’s message to Newcastle supporters inferred: “There’s never been a moment where I doubted how much I love being here,” — the Red Devils never stood a chance.

Hall tied down to Newcastle until 2031, after summer Manchester United pursuit

The Magpies released a video to X (formerly Twitter) this morning, in which Hall described his connection to Newcastle. In doing so, his rejection of Manchester United’s pursuits revealed its motivation.

“So, my Dad was born up here,” began Hall. “It just sort of embedded it into - that’s who we supported. I didn’t have a choice, really.

“There’s never been a moment where I doubted how much I love being here, and how much I love playing for Newcastle,” the Englishman continued.

“It means so much to play at St. James [Park] every week, it’s obviously a massive thing for me. Every time I step on the pitch I want to do my best…. I never really take it for granted.

“I want to do well for the football club, for the city,” concluded the 22-year-old. In his own words, Hall is a born-and-bred Toon fan, albeit having grown up in the South, and his future with Newcastle was never in doubt.

Shortly after his opening performance of the Premier League season versus Liverpool, in which Hall delivered a typically strong performance but also gave away an added-time penalty to Dominik Szoboszlai, new boss Matthias Jaissle was quizzed about Manchester United’s pursuits.

Speaking to Viaplay after the match, Jaissle was fast and firm in his response. “No chance, no chance,” repeated the Newcastle boss.

Now, with Hall tied down until 2031, it appears clearer than ever, hearing his extension interview with the Magpies, why Manchester United never stood a chance in bagging their £35 million transfer target.

“I obviously have a family connection with the club… [and] one of the main reasons I play is to make my family proud. I know how much it means to them to watch me playing for Newcastle,” revealed Hall.

“The fanbase and the support… it’s the best in the league. To be able to bring joy to their faces, it’s a big thing for me.

“I think we can go on to achieve really big things,” concluded the Englishman. Newcastle are currently placed seventh in the Premier League table, four points above the Red Devils. And so, while Carrick’s men have failed to get their target, they’ve also failed to show him what he’s missing out on.

Manchester United appear keen to boast the country's best youth talent once again, with the Red Devils on the brink of completing a triple signing from their two biggest rivals.

The club is reportedly putting the finishing touches on an agreement for Liverpool's 16-year-old attacker Isaac Konde, in addition to signing Manchester City pair David Eze and Karim Cassim, according to the BBC.

Konde, 16, made six appearances for Liverpool’s Under-18 squad last term and is said to be known for his speed and ball control. It is expected he will be integrated into Darren Fletcher’s Under-18 setup upon arrival.

Man United poach three players from Liverpool and Manchester City

Across town, Man United's pursuit of City duo Eze and Cassim is reportedly close to reaching a conclusion.

Both 16-year-olds are nominally central midfielders and have been on their soon-to-be employer's radar for some time, as per the BBC's Simon Stone.

The club are clearly making a concerted effort to steal away top-rated talent from Premier League rivals having previously secured striker Chido Obi and defender Ayden Heaven from Arsenal.

In both cases, the ex-Gunners quickly made their first-team debuts with Heaven now considered a senior option under Michael Carrick.

Man United have historically been regarded as a club with rich academy history and a consistent pathway to first-team opportunities.

The revered 'Class of 92' are the preeminent example of this with several members of that FA Youth Cup-winning side going on to play central roles under Sir Alex Ferguson in the decades that followed.

Manchester United retain one of the most remarkable records in world sport, having had at least one homegrown academy graduate included in every single first-team matchday squad for over 88 years.

Reports in Germany indicate Michael Olise is set to sign a massive new contract at Bayern Munich that will completely price Liverpool out of a move.

After breaking through the youth ranks and making his professional debut at Reading in the Championship, Olise earned himself a move to Crystal Palace. At Selhurst Park, his performances and creative output in the Premier League caught the attention of Europe’s elite.

Since arriving in Germany, Olise has taken his game to another level, establishing himself as one of the most dangerous attackers in world football, reportedly drawing the gaze of Liverpool's recruitment department.

Liverpool to look elsewhere after Michael Olise development

However, a return to English football now looks increasingly unlikely.

According to recent reports, Bayern are preparing to hand Olise a lucrative contract extension, one that includes an eye-watering release clause designed to deter potential suitors.

Historically, the Bavarian giants prided themselves on a refusal to include release clauses in player contracts, ensuring they held all the cards over any potential departures.

However, the shifting landscape of modern football has forced a change at boardroom level. Much like the agreement recently struck for Jamal Musiala, buyout clauses are becoming the new normal in Munich.

For Olise, Bayern are reportedly planning to insert an exit clause ranging anywhere from €150 million to €250 million (£126m–£211m), according to journalist Christian Falk.

Such an astronomical figure represents an insurmountable hurdle, even for a team like Liverpool. Under the ownership of Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the club operates with a strict financial model.

While they are certainly capable of making statement signings - evidenced by their recent captures of Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak and Bradley Barcola, all for in excees of £100m - obliterating their transfer record for Olise doesn't align with their financial reality.

Liverpool’s financial situation in the wake of recent arrivals dictates that they must be efficient with their remaining budget, finding value in the market rather than triggering world-record release clauses.

For many fans, the ex-Palace man would have been the dream acquisition but with Barcola now in the building, the requirement for a player of Olise's calibre has somewhat lessened.

Furthermore, the numbers required to pry him away from Germany are no longer viable given the Frenchman looks set to commit his prime years to Bayern, too.

The only place to start this week is to reflect on the summer transfer window. It was a crazy deadline day, and the stand-out deal was undoubtedly Enzo Fernandez’s £125 million move from Chelsea to Manchester City.

No matter what you want to say about Fernandez, he's still a good footballer, and Chelsea would be devastated to lose him. He's not a Rodri replacement, because he's not a number six — I think he's a number eight, or someone who can play higher up that can get forward and get you goals.

Clinton was speaking courtesy of Free Bets, home of the best betting sites in the UK.

'Deadline day disappointment but a good window on the whole for Chelsea'

They’ve also brought in Ayyoub Bouaddi, who’s a fantastic young player. And we all know Elliot Anderson’s qualities in the centre of midfield.

It leaves Man City with a very strong squad, especially when you consider that they’ll have either Rayan Cherki or Phil Foden in the number ten role. There’s lots of competition for places, and it’ll be fascinating to see how Enzo Maresca fits them all into his team.

Meanwhile, it was a disappointing deadline day for Chelsea, but they’ve had a very good window overall.

They’ll be gutted not to have got in a replacement for Fernandez, as I know they were trying to sign Manu Kone from Roma and their manager didn’t want to let him go.

And then you look at Lamine Camara, who's a good player from Monaco. It seemed like they only wanted to sell one of Folarin Balogun or Camara, and both of them have ended up staying at the club.

Chelsea have still got Moises Caicedo and Jordan Henderson who play in that position, but I feel like they've left themselves one player short in that position.

A player like Camara would have added the energy that they need in midfield. These are all good footballers, but he gives you that energy going from box-to-box.

Looking elsewhere, and the situation surrounding Malick Fofana was crazy. I know Sunderland’s owner went out to Lyon to convince the player to join. In that situation, I wouldn’t say he was forced to choose Sunderland over Crystal Palace, but I think it was inevitable that he would make that decision in those circumstances.

But I do think that if Palace wanted him, why didn't they just go in earlier? Why are you waiting until the last minute? That's what annoys me with clubs. If you want someone and you think that's your number one target, go and get them earlier in the window. It's crazy how clubs just wait until the end of the window.

Fofana is someone I’ve seen play a lot for Lyon. He’s an exciting player and is a good signing for Sunderland. It is what it is - it was a crazy situation watching it unravel.

If I’m looking at who I think has been the best signing of the summer in the Premier League overall, I’d have to pick Bruno Guimaraes’ move to Arsenal for £75 million. I think he'll be a fantastic signing. That’s closely followed by Youri Tielemans move to Manchester United for £35 million, which seems like the cost of a cup of tea in transfer terms these days!

But I still Man United have left themselves short after this window, and they ultimately failed to bring in a left-back. Crystal Palace brought in Ben Chilwell, and that would’ve been a great option. But he’s only a couple of years younger than Luke Shaw, and they probably wanted a young and hungry left-back.

The one they really wanted was Lewis Hall at Newcastle United and were desperate to get him, so that was a big disappointment for Man United.

I still feel they need to make improvements right along that backline with a new right-back, left-back, and probably a new centre-half too.

In previous windows, they've focused on attackers first and looked at their midfield in this window. I think their focus in the next window has to be in the defensive positions.

Those defensive weaknesses are probably why they won't challenge to win the Premier League at this moment in time.

But the transfer window will soon become a distant memory, as we turn our attention back to the games on the pitch.

The stand-out Premier League game this weekend has to be between Arsenal and Chelsea, which will be the first big test for Mikel Arteta’s side this season.

It will be a massive game, because Chelsea's front three will cause Arsenal's defenders a lot of problems, but Arsenal's attackers will cause Chelsea's defenders problems. So it's an interesting game.

I'm not working, I'll be sat in front of the TV, chilling and relaxing, watching the game. I think it'll be a fantastic match.

We will see where Chelsea really are against the champions, and see whether they are ready to make a title challenge this season.

Liverpool target Yankuba Minteh could make the move to Anfield in January, Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler has revealed.

The Reds saw deadline day to its conclusion without securing the replacement for recently-departed Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah.

Andoni Iraola's men saw Victor Munoz and Bradley Barcola join in the attack; however, neither are natural right-wingers. Now, the Brighton manager has revealed that Minteh may secure his move in the next transfer window, should he and the team be successful.

"Maybe he can fulfil his dream in the next transfer window," reveals Hurzeler

Liverpool were also in the market for Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr, however, that deal never materialised either, leaving him requiring time to recover emotionally.

Veteran attacker Cody Gakpo was linked closely to Manchester City in the window's final days, but the Reds opted to keep the winger to provide additional right flank coverage.

In a pre-match match press conference ahead of Brighton's clash this weekend versus Leeds United, Hurzeler revealed that Minteh may get his move in January.

"[Minteh] wears the Brighton colours, he wears the Brighton badge - he's been here for two years now," the German told reporters.

"We've achieved great things together. Therefore, it's also about him now to commit.

"In the end, we always say we want to be successful as a club, but then you can [also] shine as individuals. If we achieve things together, then attention will come to those players.

"This will be the case this season; if the whole team is successful, then Yankuba will maybe fulfil his dream in the next transfer window," Hurzeler concluded.

Replacing Salah was always going to be a tall order for Liverpool, but Minteh's Premier League-proven ability was clearly appealing to Iraola's side this window.

The Brighton attacker bagged seven goal involvements in 34 English top-flight games last season, and 10 in 32 the season prior.

Richarlison's future at Tottenham Hotspur is hanging in the balance, as the 29-year-old's transfer to Super Lig side Trabzonspor edges nearer.

The Brazilian previously rejected an Everton homecoming earlier this week, taking to social media to reveal that negotiations had broken down with the Toffees.

Now, Richarlison could join forces with Liverpool royalty in Mohamed Salah, as time ticks down on Super Lig deadline day.

Richarlison on verge of move to Trabzonspor, reveals Turkish transfer expert

The Brazilian was recently axed from Spurs's 25-man squad list, with boss Roberto De Zerbi confirming Richarlison had "said too many times that he wants to leave."

Earlier this week, it was reported by Turkish transfer expert Yagiz Sabuncuoglu that Richarlison had verbally agreed to move to Trabzonspor, and the deal has since progressed further.

September 4 is the Super Lig's deadline day, with hours remaining for the Turkish top-flight side to secure the Brazilian's services.

Sabuncuoglu provided an update via X (formerly Twitter) yesterday evening that clarified how close Trabzonspor are to pulling off the move.

"Trabzonspor will finalise the Richarlison transfer if they can send one foreign player from their squad before the transfer window closes," he wrote.

"Otherwise, the transfer will be cancelled," Sabuncuoglu concluded. The Super Lig's deadline day ends this evening at 11:59pm BST.

Trabzonspor recently signed another striker in their efforts to prevent Galatasaray from securing an unprecedented fifth-consecutive Turkish top-flight title.

That player is Franculino Dju, who moved from Danish Superliga club Midtjylland in a deal worth almost £15 million.

Trabzonspor appear to quietly be assembling a solid attack, led by Liverpool legend Salah who has scored three-in-three for the club domestically this term.

According to ESPN Brazil, the Egyptian even called Richarlison to convince him to join the Turkish top-flight side.

In that report, it is stated that Spurs have rejected a €20 million offer for their Brazilian forward, meaning that it is possible a fee has not been agreed upon, as of yet.

Richarlison, who is currently training with Tottenham Hotspur's Under-21s side, is pushing hard for the move.

The Athletic reported yesterday that Spurs had rejected a bid from Trabzonspor, claiming there was no guarantee that the Turkish club would try their luck again.

According to Sabuncuoglu, it appears that the deal has progressed since, as the hours tick down on Super Lig deadline day.

If it wasn't enough for Manchester City to break the British transfer record on ex-Chelsea man Enzo Fernandez, willingly handing him Kevin De Bruyne's shirt number rather than retiring it, even just temporarily, tells you everything you need to know.

Premier League fans have had it easy when it comes to making that claim, yet the Cityzens keep giving them ammunition.

If being the defining figure across six English top-flight title wins isn't enough for a statue, a temporarily-retired shirt number, or a dedicated wing at the training ground, what is?

Enzo taking De Bruyne's shirt number so soon is wrong

There will be a section of angry Man City fans that will argue De Bruyne's legacy is not being tarred, and that he will forever be respected, regardless of whether his shirt number is in another player's possession.

But it's the principle: if you secure two PFA Players' Player of the Year awards, six Premier League titles, four Playmaker Awards, all as the cornerstone of City's golden era, that number belongs to you.

Whether De Bruyne himself minds or not, it's a show of respect that any serious clubs should offer to the legends that define them.

And before the question is raised: yes, Manchester City are different to other clubs that didn't retire the shirt numbers of other defining legends, such as Wayne Rooney's '10', or Steven Gerrard's '8'.

That is because, in the grand scheme of history, De Bruyne is more akin to icons at Liverpool and Manchester United in the 20th Century. Besides, '17' is far easier to retire as a number than the aforementioned pair.

The club does not possess the same history as its closest rivals, and it is De Bruyne who will go down as one of the first-ever Manchester City legends that raised the club to its ever-growing present.

But to give his number away within two years, to the first player that asked for it? Not even a buffer period, or to a player who has earned the right to 'stand where he stood'?

Nobody is asking for the Belgian's '17' to be withheld indefinitely — although, it's not the worst idea — but to give it to Enzo?

The same Enzo disciplined for singing homophobic and racist chants with his national team, who wielded an anti-Falklands banner in the summer after beating England, and got himself sent off by turning Pau Cubarsi into Simone Biles in the World Cup final?

The same Enzo who practically begged for a Real Madrid move while at Chelsea, and was removed from the squad ahead of an FA Cup quarter-final?

What has always held Manchester City back from being taken as seriously as their Premier League peers, is the idea that players who arrive there do so for money, not for the badge.

It's the idea that Manchester City, more so than their rivals, pay to see success, rather than breed it by creating a culture and environment that superstars would virtually pay to join.

And it's why the Manchester club time and time again are branded by opposition fans as soulless.

But one thing is for certain, the Cityzens have failed to honour one of the few players that nobody doubts adored their club.

If the Belgian's statue is being constructed behind the scenes, they better start carving the stone quicker.

Arsenal are protecting their long-term interests in teenage midfielder Ethan Nwaneri.

The Gunners have reportedly inserted a recall option into Nwaneri's season-long loan move to Borussia Dortmund.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, writing for CaughtOffside, the Gunners have the right to break the loan agreement early and bring the 19-year-old back to North London during the January transfer window should they choose to exercise it.

Clarity on Ethan Nwaneri's Arsenal future

The deal is also structured as a straight loan with no option or obligation for the Bundesliga club to buy.

Consequently, Dortmund will not likely have the resource, or opportunity, to sign Nwaneri on a permanent basis at the end of the season, in contrast to other loan agreements that feature purchase clauses.

The inclusion of the January recall clause is another clear indication that Mikel Arteta and the Arsenal hierarchy still see a future for Nwaneri at the Emirates Stadium.

However, both the manager and the board acknowledge that the player was unlikely to receive the regular minutes required to further his development at his parent club during the 2026/27 campaign.

To avoid a scenario where the midfielder's progress stalls on the bench, Arsenal have opted to sanction a temporary departure to Germany. And having seen previous young loanees suffer from a lack of minutes, the Gunners wanted to ensure they retained full control of the arrangement, allowing them to step in if Nwaneri's game time in Germany does not meet expectations.

A serious knee injury to Dortmund's new, creative midfielder Giannis Konstantelias on his debut motivated the Bundesliga club's late-in-the-window pursuit of Nwaneri.

The Arsenal hierarchy's hope is for Nwaneri to perform at a high level in the Bundesliga, using the experience to prove he can handle first-team demands in the Premier League. If all goes according to plan, the England youth international will return to the Emirates next summer to stake a claim for a far more involved role in Arteta's first-team squad.

The Premier League’s transfer window is now closed, with various high-profile transfers being made in the dying embers of Tuesday’s deadline day.

English top-flight clubs are still able to pursue free transfers, however, their window to purchase players is closed. Across the globe, various windows remain open, notably Saudi Arabia.

The following football leagues remain able to sign players, the first of which’s deadline strikes at midnight, in the United States of America.

Major Soccer League (MLS) - Closes 2 September

The MLS is currently experiencing deadline day, with the American league still able to operate in the market and make club-to-club signings.

In recent hours, The Athletic reported that Houston Dynamo were finalising a loan deal for Lyle Foster with Burnley, as MLS sides look to strengthen before the deadline.

They also reported that the Colorado Rapids have signed a club-record transfer of Morgan Whittaker from Middlesbrough, in a deal worth over $10 million.

Saudi Pro League - Closes 12 October

Unlike its American peer, the Saudi Pro League has over a month left yet before its transfer deadline, which is set to close on October 12th.

Transfers to the league have exploded in recent times, following Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr in January 2023. Players are increasingly being enticed by the competition’s financial promise, with many of the world’s highest-paid footballers residing in Saudi Arabia.

Ollie Watkins and Crysensio Summerville are two Premier League players that traded competition for money this summer — both the ex-Aston Villa striker and the Dutchman transferred to Al-Hilal.

Super Lig - Closes 4 September

The Turkish top-flight is another league that has made headlines in recent times, although, never more so than when departing Liverpool legend joined Trabzonspor in early August.

As a free agent, the Egyptian opted against servicing the trio of Istanbul clubs who stake the strongest claims to future Super Lig titles, despite almost joining Besiktas weeks prior.

Notable transfers this window include Romelu Lukaku to Fenerbahce, Rafael Leao to Galatasaray, Leandro Trossard to Besiktas, and perhaps now Richarlison to Trabzonspor.

The clock is ticking slightly quicker in Turkey — their window ends on Friday, September 4.

Other leagues with open transfer windows: Scottish Premiership, Eredivisie, etc

Time is passing even faster in Scotland, with the Scottish Premiership’s transfer deadline falling on Thursday, September 3 at 5pm BST.

Celtic recently welcomed the arrival of Shumaira Mheuka on a season-long loan from Chelsea, hours after seeing Wolves shot-stopper Sam Johnstone join on an identical-length loan.

Even sooner, the Eredivisie’s transfer window will close at midnight on September 2, while the Portuguese top-flight will continue being able to make club-to-club transfers until September 15.

In Mexico and Brazil, the deadline is September 11 for both leagues; the Swiss Super League will see its window close on September 8.

Richarlison has reportedly reached an agreement with a suitor club, and is pushing to exit Tottenham Hotspur, days after rejecting an approach from former side Everton.

The Spurs striker bagged 11 Premier League goals last term, as the North London club fought tooth and nail to avoid final day relegation.

In all competitions, he tallied 12 goals and five assists in 42 appearances, and has now set his sights on the Super Lig in a transfer that will see him join forces with Liverpool royalty.

Richarlison reaches verbal agreement with Trabzonspor, will play alongside Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah

According to Turkish transfer expert Yagiz Sabuncuoglu, Richarlison has verbally agreed to an offer made by Trabzonspor, and is now pressuring Tottenham Hotspur to allow him to depart.

The news arrives mere hours after Trabzonspor were revealed to have made an offer to the North London club in exchange for the Brazilian’s services, also reported by Sabuncuoglu.

Richarlison publicly denied rumours of returning to Everton, who also failed to sign USMNT striker Folarin Balogun before yesterday's deadline, clarifying that he remains in charge of his own future and “never again will anyone decide my future for me.”

“If they reach an agreement between Spurs and Everton, I will return to my beloved club,” he continued. “My intention was to go back to the place where I was very happy, yes.

“But the negotiations happened only in the way certain people wanted, and it will no longer be like that. I am under contract at Spurs and will remain at the club’s disposal,” concluded the Brazilian.

Trabzonspor expert Hasan Tuncel supported the claim that Richarlison is on the verge of moving to Turkey, claiming on X (formerly Twitter) that “serious efforts are being made to get him out of Tottenham” shortly after Sabuncuoglu’s exclusive was posted.

The Super Lig side have made headlines in recent months for securing the services of Liverpool legend Salah, who has bagged three-in-three for Trabzonspor domestically this season.

The Turkish top-flight side also paired the Egyptian with Richarlison’s fellow Brazilian, and Salah’s former Reds team-mate, Fabinho, with both players starting versus Amed on Monday evening and combining for the game’s opening goal.

The Super Lig club have prioritised an additional forward since the Egyptian signed, with rumours circling that Darwin Nunez could reunite with Salah, but that move did not materialise.

FourFourTwo suggested that Trabzonspor approach free agent Wilfried Zaha as a wing partner for the Egyptian, but it now appears that Richarlison will make a Papara Park arrival, and possibly fill that flank.

The Super Lig side’s current striker, Paul Onuachu — who hit 22 top-flight strikes last term — has endured a goal-less start to the season, with fans rallying to see greater depth in the position.

Richarlison would also act as a natural replacement for Onuachu in the starting line-up; only time will tell whether Spurs allow the Brazilian to leave, as the 29-year-old pushes for his move.

The Premier League’s transfer deadline has come and gone. For the clubs that were able to secure their dream signings, it’s time to go and compete for the title, for European silverware, Champions League qualification, whatever their hearts desire.

But for the clubs who didn’t? It might be time to pick up the reading glasses and peruse the annual list of free agents — typically chock-full of memorable names, now slightly past it, but still capable of producing at a high level in the correct environments.

This list once featured the likes of Mohamed Salah and Bernardo Silva, but there’s still a solid selection left. These are the strongest five players who Premier League clubs are still able to sign beyond the deadline, and where they should consider making one final stand.

Jamie Vardy

Fans might have written off Jamie Vardy, but they really shouldn’t have. After making the move to Italy last season, enjoying Serie A life with Cremonese, the former Leicester City striker bagged seven goals, and won the league's Player of the Month award in November 2025.

Unfortunately for his club, those strikes weren’t enough to avoid relegation to the Serie B. Fortunately for Vardy, the mere fact he was able to hit seven top-flight goals for one of the league’s worst teams provided concrete proof to onlooking clubs that the Englishman still has remnants left in the tank.

Since leaving Cremonese as a free agent in May, the 39-year-old has made headlines for securing the rights to seven Bundesliga games on his YouTube channel. No club, as of yet, has made the plunge for him.

But there’s a very clear option for Vardy, one that makes almost too much sense, to draw the curtain on his illustrious Premier League and FA Cup-winning career.

Where he should go: Vardy to Wrexham. One final Championship run, with the possibility of taking the club to the Premier League. High wages, adoring fans… and maybe he’ll finally get that Hollywood biopic made, with Ryan Reynolds starring.

Karim Benzema

Just five years ago, the Real Madrid man delivered one of the strongest Ballon D’or-winning seasons in recent memory, spearheading the La Liga giants to a treble.

In the Champions League, he was formidable, bagging hat-tricks against PSG and Chelsea, as well as a brace versus Manchester City, en-route to lifting yet another European title for Madrid.

He ended that campaign with 15 goals and two assists in 12 Champions League matches, and added a further 39 goal involvements in 32 La Liga games to also secure that title.

Just over a year later, he was in Saudi Arabia, making the move to Al-Ittihad. He has since scored 67 goals throughout his time there, and departed from Al-Hilal as a free agent in August. He bagged 17 Saudi Pro League goals in his final term, and appears still capable of extracting just a little more.

Where he should go: Benzema, despite reportedly being unwilling to move back to Europe, should consider a Premier League side. FourFourTwo can picture the Frenchman at Everton, following their failure to secure the signature of Folarin Balogun. If Carlo Ancelotti could put pen to paper at Goodison Park, so can Benzema at the Hill Dickinson.

Paul Pogba

The former Juventus and Manchester United man, in comparison to the two aforementioned players, bizarrely looks to have little left in the tank, despite an expectation that he should have — just 33 years old and struggling to pick up the pieces following his doping ban in February 2024.

There was once a time, in football’s collective and not so distant memory, that Pogba stood tall as the finest on the pitch in a World Cup final, bagging a mid-range strike to extend his side’s slim lead.

As has often been the case with high-profile Manchester United transfers in recent years, that transfer appeared to destroy the Frenchman’s career — mere seasons after his Serie A exploits left jaws dropped.

For his most recent side, AS Monaco in Ligue 1, he played his first game in over two years back in December of 2025, appearing in a 4-1 loss versus Rennes.

He made just six appearances, playing 133 minutes, for the club during its 2026-27 season, and is now a free transfer. But where does he go from here?

Where he should go: Retirement, or offer to play for pennies at any serious side in Europe’s Top 5 Leagues. It’s make-or-break for Pogba: either pack it all in, or enter one final stand. FFT can picture the Frenchman deciding on the Bundesliga. A DFB Pokal trophy lift with Bayer Leverkusen sounds alright, doesn’t it?

Jadon Sancho

Another player, another once gob-smacking talent reduced to rubble by Manchester United. After back-to-back-to-back loan periods with former club Borussia Dortmund, then Chelsea, then Aston Villa, it appears the Red Devils, nor any of those other clubs, want him.

So where does the 26-year-old, who once registered 29, 39 and 34 goal involvements across three separate Bundesliga seasons in his near teenage youth, go from here?

The obvious answer is to traverse the Raheem Sterling path (another free agent) and fade out into obscurity outside of Europe’s Top 5 Leagues. Or depart to Saudi, and claim their life-changing payday.

But if Sancho is serious about his career, not just his wealth, he should go the Todd Cantwell route: except not to a Championship club, but to a current Premier League side anticipated to go down.

Where he should go: If he manages to keep Hull City or Ipswich Town up, his career would be saved at a Premier League level. And if his side goes down, but he successfully wins over the fans with his play and effort, then neither team can be counted on to remain in the Championship. In a few years, he could be captaining them back to the English top-flight.

Wilfried Zaha

Once referred to as ‘the next Cristiano Ronaldo’ by former boss Ian Holloway, Zaha has gone down the Lionel Messi route — but only by playing MLS football in his later years.

The 33-year-old bagged three goals, and recorded an assist, in 13 appearances for Charlotte FC last season. The term prior, he struck 10, and registered six assists, in 35 matches for the MLS side.

In 2023, he made the move from Crystal Palace to Galatasaray, where he recorded 14 goal involvements in his debut season at the Super Lig club.

Zaha moved to the MLS, and played for a period in Ligue 1 at Lyon, on loan from Galatasaray — now, he’s a free agent. And the Super Lig side that released him are gunning for an unprecedented fifth consecutive Super Lig title, during a campaign in which their strongest domestic rivals are strengthening.

Where he should go: Trabzonspor. The Super Lig leaders didn’t want him, and Zaha will have the chance to play alongside Salah in a side that will surely be expected to lift Turkish silverware, and perhaps string together a half-decent Conference League run, this season. High wages, the best wing partner a Turkish top-flight forward could ask for, and the chance to prevent Galatasaray from achieving their dreams, after being dropped by the club.

AS Monaco sporting director Thiago Scuro has revealed the extraordinary sequence of events behind Folarin Balogun’s deadline day transfer collapse to Everton.

Speaking to Get French Football News (GFFN), Scuro detailed how medical doubts raised by the Premier League club ultimately provoked the striker to reject the move at the final minute.

Scuro explained that Monaco had established a clear financial strategy entering deadline day, combining player sales with wage relief.

'I don't want to sign after the way they treated me'

"During the day, we had a clear agreement for Balogun to go to Everton," Scuro said. "Balogun flew yesterday morning to go for medicals and sign a contract.

"Balogun, besides the salary, was also an important source of income for the club, which would help us also to balance the season."

Folarin Balogun medical dispute

While Monaco held firm against Chelsea's late-in-the-window advances for Lamine Camara, Balogun arrived in Liverpool for tests. Four hours before the deadline, Everton’s medical staff raised concerns that Scuro and the player's own medical team strongly rejected.

"At 4pm, Balogun was in Liverpool undergoing his medical. Everything was going pretty well. Around 7pm, we were contacted by Everton, raising questions about Balogun’s medical, which, for our medical staff, as well as for the player’s personal medical staff, made no sense at all.

"The explanations were not enough to justify or to bring concerns regarding the future of the player, which there aren’t. This discussion started between medical departments from here and there. It took Everton around two-to-three hours to go deep into the assessment and check with other doctors. This is a normal situation when the doctor of the club raises concerns. It’s quite normal that clubs will look for other specialists, share the images and discuss the case. This was ongoing."

Reports that Balogun had failed his medical surfaced in the media while consultations continued.

"I would say around half an hour after we were contacted. It was already in the media that Balogun has failed his medical.

"What happened was that around 10pm (9pm BST), in our time here, maybe a bit earlier, Everton realised that, OK, there is no problem. We are ready to do it. Let’s sign the contract."

"Five minutes to close the transfer window there, I signed the contract, Everton signed the contract. At the last moment, the player decided not to sign. And basically, Balogun’s allegation is that I’m not feeling well because of the way the club treated me. 'I’m not feeling well because Everton’s medical department raised doubts about my future or my health. I have nothing [wrong with me], so I’m not comfortable signing a long contract here.' And that’s the way we finish our transfer window.

"On Everton, I was not there. We have to respect [Balogun's] decision. We tried to do the work on the club side. We found solutions.

"The reality is that when 'Balo' mentioned to us this feeling that he was not comfortable, he didn’t want to sign, we didn’t see ourselves in a position to push him. We had to respect."

Manchester United are close to completing a deal with a club in the Netherlands that will see one of the Red Devils' most highly-rated youngsters spend the season out on loan.

Michael Carrick's higher-ups have negotiated some shrewd incoming business this summer, adding the likes of Carlos Baleba, Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans to the squad.

However, the club have not been as adept at getting unwanted and unused players off the wage bill and out of the door, particularly in recent years.

Manchester United teenager to sign for Dutch club on loan

Dutch outlet Voetbal International are reporting that 18-year-old wonderkid Chido Obi is close to joining Willem II on loan for the 2026/27 season.

Last month, reports in the Netherlands claimed Feyenoord were taking a keen interest in the youngster's immediate future, but it now appears Obi will be playing his football in Tilburg this term.

Obi came to attention in Arsenal's Hale End academy, making his under-21 debut at the age of just 15 and making international headlines when he netted 10 goals in 14-3 win against Liverpool, at under-16 level.

The Danish youth international made the move to Manchester United in 2024, along with Ayden Heaven, in search of more playing time.

Obi was handed a Premier League debut by Ruben Amorim in February 2025, and against Brentford a few months later, became the youngest player to start a Premier League game for Man United at just 17 years, 156 days. On the whole, though, he has found a pathway into the first-team hard to come by and has made a meagre seven Premier League appearances to date.

Obi's task at Old Trafford is not an easy one by any means, having to try and oust the likes of £200m trio Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko.

FourFourTwo understands that the club still value Obi highly and prefer a loan move – though wouldn't be opposed to selling if an offer deemed acceptable came their way.

While the English transfer window closed at 11pm on Tuesday, September 1, Dutch clubs are still able to do business until 11pm BST on Wednesday, September 2.

Willem II were promoted from the Eerste Divisie last season and are currently winless in three Eredivisie matches in 2026/27.

Obi is worth €5m, according to Transfermarkt.

The Belgian attacker will call the Stadium of Light home this season, but life at Lyon wasn’t always so certain to end for Fofana. When his former side strove for qualification to the Champions League last season, the French top-flight side finished in fourth, narrowly outside of the automatic ascension spots.

Less than a week ago, the club’s second leg play-off match ended 1-2 to Super Lig side Fenerbahce, and 2-3 on aggregate. Despite Fofana converting what could have been a crucial strike in the 61st-minute, their competition crash-out was confirmed courtesy of Vedat Muriqi and Archie Brown.

In turn, as L’Equipe’s Hugo Guillemet wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “In the current context at Lyon, the bankers’ opinion carries more weight than that of the coach.” And so ended three-and-a-half years in France for the attacker — but how exactly did Fofana end up at Sunderland, with half of the Premier League knocking at his doorstep?

Lyon forced to sell, Arsenal low-balling, Palace hijacking, Roc Nation prowling — Fofana is a Black Cat

Yesterday morning, Fofana’s path to Sunderland appeared clear, despite perceived holes in Mikel Arteta's left flank. A statement cameo from Eberechi Eze in Arsenal’s 1-0 away victory versus Aston Villa made their offer for the Belgian, a London low-ball, make sense.

In 2025, before Lyon were forced to sell Fofana following their failure to achieve Champions League football, two other Premier League giants in Chelsea and Liverpool were floating on the periphery. Neither deal was made, with a valuation of €50 million placed upon the then 20-year-old’s head.

This summer, a similar saga played out initially. Lyon requested close to €40 million, but the Gunners were ultimately unwilling to part with their cash, despite seeing off Gabriel Martinelli to Saudi in late August. The breakdown of that deal allowed Sunderland to swoop in and, for a brief time, they appeared to be in pole position to make the Ligue 1 ace a Black Cat. Enter Crystal Palace.

The Eagles had previously contacted Lyon in an effort to sign the winger, after the flame of Fofana’s prospective transfer to Arsenal was snuffed out. Strangely, it was then reported that the 21-year-old was unwilling to join Crystal Palace, which made their later attempted hijacking of Sunderland’s proposed deal an even juicier development.

Ten hours remaining on deadline day: Fofana was now, somehow, tentatively pencilled in for a medical examination with the Eagles, with L’Equipe reporting that Palace was his preferred destination.

An hour before this? Fofana had been given the green light to travel to Sunderland for another medical, as revealed by transfer expert David Ornstein, in a deal worth around €35 million.

Less than 24 hours before that? With Arsenal travelling to Villa Park, L’Equipe reported that it was actually the Gunners who stood tallest in the Premier League race to secure Fofana’s services.

At 1:45pm BST on Tuesday afternoon, the 21-year-old was revealed to have spoken to Pierre Sage in the late morning, and been convinced by the Eagles boss to join Crystal Palace on a five-year deal. The transfer fee was quoted at €39 million, including bonuses, with both Sunderland and Arsenal retaining interest in the Belgian.

But Sunderland, who would later prevail in the heat of deadline day battle, flipped the script on Lyon, offering the player’s agents larger commission payments, and matching Palace’s slightly higher transfer fee, as reported shortly after 4pm BST.

Fofana decided to cease all contact with the Eagles despite, supposedly, being en-route to London for a medical examination. Moments later, news broke that the Belgian was waiting to board his plane, in the middle of a tug-of-war with two brawling English clubs determined to upstage the other.

So what did Palace do? They followed the playbook: offer the young talent’s agents higher payments. Perhaps the Eagles’ sporting director chucked a Jay-Z song on his Instagram burner’s story, we’ll never know — but Fofana’s agency is Roc Nation, and money is The Blueprint.

Finally, in a late twist that feels hilariously divorced from transfer saga reality, even in the Ramy Abbas Issa era, Fofana actually ended up completing a medical examination at Lyon… without knowing which club it was for.

At this point, it was reported that the 21-year-old could not settle on which Premier League destination was preferable — despite many assuming Sage to have a late-stage advantage, amid similar terms being offered, after managing Fofana previously at Lyon from 2023 to 2025.

In the end, it was the Belgian’s uncle, who works for Roc Nation, that stepped in and aided the player in his decision. Romain Molina reported, during the dying embers of deadline day, that an Uncle “Bouba” stood to benefit financially from his nephew’s choice, and directed him to pick Sunderland.

And so concluded one of the craziest deadline day sagas in Premier League history, with the Black Cats emerging victorious in a deal worth over €35 million, including add-ons. Fofana's contract is set to expire in 2031, with plenty of Premier League-playing days ahead.

His family and agents, who seemingly offered the Belgian greater direction in this decision than he offered himself, will enjoy a staggering payday.

And Jay-Z, whose agency appeared strapped for cash throughout this all, finally has the funds he needed to afford studio time, so we'll be seeing another album soon... right, Mr. Carter? What a day.

Everton are closing in on a dramatic deadline day loan deal for Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee after their proposed move for Monaco forward Folarin Balogun appeared to collapse.

The Toffees had been on the verge of finalising a move for Balogun to spearhead their attack, but negotiations have ground to a halt following the player’s medical, according to reports.

Everton’s medical staff reportedly identified issues during Balogun's screening tests on deadline day.

Everton chase late Zirkzee loan deal

As a direct consequence of those results, the club hierarchy have seemingly taken the decision to pull the plug on the transfer, unwilling to commit significant financial resources to a deal with potential underlying risks.

Left scrambling for an alternative goalscorer in the final hours of the window, Everton have pivoted toward Manchester United’s outcast Dutchman Zirkzee.

According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Everton have been in contact with Man United directly to negotiate a late loan deal, in response to Balogun’s medical falling through.

The 25-year-old forward has found himself sidelined at Old Trafford for months, failing to log a single minute of action across either of the club's opening two Premier League fixtures of the 2026/27 season.

Zirkzee’s standing at Old Trafford has plummeted, too, following last summer's additions of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko.

His last goal in a competitive fixture for Manchester United came at the end of 2025 during a 1-1 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers, and he has struggled to play any sort of consistent role ever since.

Having fallen completely out of favour under manager Michael Carrick, Zirkzee is clearly not in the head coach's long-term plans, making a deadline day exit the ideal resolution for all parties.

For Everton, bringing in Zirkzee serves as a salvage operation following the disappointment of the Balogun collapse.

While the Dutch forward arrives as a secondary fallback option rather than the club's primary target, his arrival provides much-needed depth and competition upfront for the Toffees following Iliman Ndiaye's exit for Manchester City.

The transfer deadline in England is at 11pm.

Liverpool are attempting a last-minute transfer raid, targeting VfB Stuttgart in their efforts to sign a replacement for departed superstar Mohamed Salah.

The Reds have overseen a transfer window of mixed outcomes — on the one hand, they experienced a mass exodus of veterans in Salah, Andrew Roberton and Ibrahima Konate this summer, and nearly lost Cody Gakpo to a strong Manchester City bid; on the other, they recently secured the services of PSG superstar Bradley Barcola.

The Frenchman will join Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, a soon-to-be-fit Hugo Ekitike and summer signing Victor Munoz in a revamped Liverpool attack, but Andoni Iraola’s men are looking to see another forward join their ranks, now targeting the Bundesliga.

Liverpool target electric Bundesliga winger Jamie Leweling

According to Sky Germany, both Liverpool and Everton are after Stuttgart forward Jamie Leweling, with the former deeming him a potential Salah replacement.

The 25-year-old is contracted to the Bundesliga side until 2029, meaning he will not come for cheap, or easily, however, his contributions during the 2025-26 season could make the late plunge worth it.

Leweling bagged 11 goals in all competitions for Stuttgart during his latest campaign, seven of which came in the Bundesliga, and recorded 12 assists, nine of which were in the German top-flight.

The German was clinical in his finishing, missing just one Opta-defined Big Chance in the Bundesliga season, and scoring his seven strikes from an xG of 4.31.

He also created the joint second-most Big Chances for Stuttgart, tied for ten with Angelo Stiller and Maximilian Mittelstadt.

Outside of goal contributions, Leweling proved underwhelming from a take-on perspective, recording just one dribble p/90. His physicality was a level above, recording nearly seven duels won p/90, at a success rate just shy of 50%.

Roma have displayed significant interest in recent hours regarding Leweling, however, no deal has yet been completed, with both Everton and Liverpool retaining interest.

Should the 25-year-old join in a last-minute transfer to Anfield, he would operate as a natural replacement for Salah on the right flank. Additionally, he brings left wing experience.

Conversely, new signings Munoz and Barcola favour the left flank; in the absence of Leweling, it is Gakpo who would likely be turned to in times of need, should Liverpool fail to fill Salah’s vacant position.

The Reds have also exhibited interest in Ismaila Sarr and Yankuba Minteh, both Premier League-proven talents, however, neither deal appears likely at this stage. If they are to obtain Leweling, it is near certain to cost a significant premium.

The proposed move would see Nwaneri join Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund on loan, without an option to purchase, according to reports.

Arsenal, who will strive to retain the Premier League title for the first time in the North London club’s history this season, are willing to part ways with their 19-year-old prospect.

Borussia Dortmund’s interest in Nwaneri pre-dates the signing of Giannis Konstantelias; however, the Gunners youngster is expected to receive greater playing minutes after the Greek attacker sustained a recent injury.

Konstantelias suffers ligament injury, Nwaneri travels for medical to Dortmund

According to transfers expert David Ornstein, the 19-year-old is travelling today to Dortmund to undergo his medical exam.

Konstantelias is braced for a lengthy sideline spell after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament injury in his debut Bundesliga appearance versus Hamburger SV — in which he also hit his first goal.

Dortmund prevailed 2-0 on the day, with Konstantelias scoring his side’s second: a glorious right-footed effort from just inside the box.

Following the Greek’s injury, Dortmund reached out to Arsenal and made it clear that Nwaneri’s arrival had become a priority, before an arrangement was ironed out.

Prior to this heightened interest, the youngster was reportedly considering a loan move to Fulham, prioritising a stay in the Premier League. This will no longer happen.

The 19-year-old did not appear in the squad for the Gunners’ 3-0 pre-season victory against Manchester City in the Community Shield, missing out alongside Gabriel Martinelli.

The Brazilian has since departed for Saudi Arabia, and Nwaneri is now Bundesliga-bound, with Arteta’s side hoping that the 19-year-old is able to develop further with Dortmund.

The youngster spent the second half of the 2025/26 season on loan with Marseille in Ligue 1, scoring twice, and assisting once, in nine French top-flight appearances.

Nwaneri also scored against Dortmund for Arsenal in pre-season, during a 3-2 loss in the Emirates Cup — and converted his penalty in the post-match shootout.

Since making his Premier League debut for the North London club in 2022, aged just 15, Nwaneri has failed to break into a side that has competed for the English top-flight title in four successive seasons.

He has made 51 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 10 and assisting two, with Mikel Arteta confessing in August that he would like the 19-year-old to stay, but that he needs to receive further opportunities.

The club reportedly weighed up the benefits of selling their youngster outright, however, a loan period has been agreed. Should Nwaneri seize the chances he will receive at Dortmund, a sale or place in the first team are both possible for him upon his return to London.

Liverpool have suffered another setback in the transfer market as Premier League rivals Chelsea appear to have won the battle to sign AS Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara.

According to Italian transfer reporter Nicolò Schira, the Blues are into the final stages of agreeing terms to sign the Senegalese international, successfully outbidding the Reds in the final stretch of the summer window.

It was reported last week that both Liverpool and Chelsea were actively weighing up moves for the coveted 22-year-old, whose performances in Ligue 1 had helped establish him as one of Europe’s best young central midfielders.

Liverpool double down on midfield squad depth high-wire act

While Liverpool hesitated to firm up their interest, Chelsea have moved decisively to advance discussions and seal an agreement.

Chelsea’s willingness to splash out substantial fees late in the window, simultaneously pushing for both Camara and AS Roma’s Manu Kone, points to a major outgoing at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues hierarchy must know they are on the verge of receiving a huge financial windfall from the sale of Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City.

Knowing that City are prepared to pay a massive sum to secure Fernandez, Chelsea are reinvesting those projected funds, adding greater physicality and tenacity to their engine room before the Argentine’s exit is formally announced.

Failing to land Camara is a blow that exacerbates an already delicate squad situation at Anfield. The Reds' fixture schedule sees them competing across four competitions, with three first-team central midfield options in Dominik Szoboszlai - who may be required to fill in at right-back - Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister.

Head coach Andoni Iraola’s tactical style is notoriously demanding, relying on high-energy pressing, vertical play, and off-the-ball work-rate. Attempting to implement this with a limited number of personnel in the middle of the park could leave Iraola with a difficult few months ahead.

Chelsea's capture of Camara also runs the risk of reigniting deep-seated frustration among the Liverpool fanbase.

Supporters remain concerned that the club have never truly replaced Fabinho since the Brazilian anchor departed three years ago. While temporary fixes and attack-minded central players have filled in, Liverpool have lacked an out-and-out defensive midfielder capable of breaking up counter-attacks and establishing balance.

Camara’s blend of tenacity and athleticism would have made him an ideal candidate to solve that lingering problem.

Instead, Chelsea have seemingly beaten their rivals to a top-tier target.

Regis Le Bris' Sunderland have kept their powder dry for much of the summer transfer window but could be about to pull off one of the deals of the season.

Following Olympique Lyonnais' failure to qualify for the UEFA Champions League last week, the Ligue 1 club are in desperate need to sell key assets in order to abide by French football's financial controls.

As a consequence, important first-team players must now be jettisoned before June 30, 2027, in order to comply.

Sunderland to pull off sensational transfer on deadline day

Sunderland have pounced to potentially land one of European football's most exciting young wingers, if a deal can be completed before the transfer deadline.

Lyon winger Malick Fofana has been given permission to travel for a Black Cats medical ahead of signing on the dotted line for the north east club.

Fofana, 21, is expected to sign a five-year contract at the Stadium of Light, according to The Athletic, which would represent one of the summer's marquee transfers.

In recent days, Arsenal were linked with a move for the Belgian international but the Gunners' apparent hesitancy has allowed Sunderland to make a more attractive proposal to the up-and-coming wide attacker.

Sunderland will compete in the UEFA Europa League this season, the same competition in which Lyon dropped into following their failure to negotiate a way through the Champions League play-off round.

Fofana is highly-rated in Europe but is yet to test himself on English shores. However, the dressing room at Sunderland is likely to ease his transition with plenty of French-speaking players and a young core that aligns with the incoming Belgium winger.

The Manchester City man is set to return on a season-long loan to Everton, after an initial period in 2025/26 was plagued by injury for Grealish.

The 30-year-old’s medical is booked, with the deal anticipated to be completed before the 11pm BST transfer deadline this Tuesday evening.

A Toffees fan favourite will head the other way, as Enzo Maresca’s men look to build on their two-from-two start and mount yet another Premier League title challenge.

Iliman Ndiaye heads to Manchester, Jack Grealish returns to Everton

Manchester City have struck a deal worth up to £65 million for Ndiaye, days after the 26-year-old was expected to complete a transfer to Tottenham Hotspur. His medical will be completed this morning, according to transfer expert David Ornstein.

The Senegalese winger has been a stand-out across his two seasons on Merseyside, scoring 17 goals, and recording three assists, in 74 appearances.

In the prior deal, former Toffees hero Richarlison was expected to return to Everton; however, the Brazilian has seemingly been unable to agree to a deal with his former club.

On Monday, Richarlison posted a message to his social media accounts that appeared to put an end to the homecoming buzz — and Ndiaye’s transfer to the North London side.

"My intention was to go back to the place where I was very happy, yes, but the negotiations happened only in the way certain people wanted, and it will no longer be like that,” wrote the Brazilian.

"Despite all this turmoil, I am under contract at Spurs and will remain at the club's disposal,” he concluded.

As a result, it is Maresca’s men who will see the Senegalese forward among their ranks this season, having swooped in and found an agreement for £60 million, and an additional £5 million in add-ons, according to BBC Sport.

Instead of Richarlison returning, it will now be Grealish, who registered two goals and six assists for the Toffees in 22 appearances during the 2025/26 season.

The 30-year-old endured a foot injury in January, mid-way through his loan period from the Cityzens, playing in what appeared to be his final game for Everton versus Aston Villa on the 18th of that month.

Grealish has since made a recovery, making an appearance from the bench in Manchester City’s 3-0 Community Shield final loss versus Arsenal, and another in the club’s 2-1 win against Bournemouth.

The winger is set to return for another season-long loan period, according to BBC Sport, and Everton are also looking to make additional attacking signings, with USMNT star Folarin Balogun on their radar, before the transfer deadline.

Chelsea are reportedly locked in late transfer deadline day negotiations with AS Roma over a swap deal involving midfielder Manu Kone.

According to a report from Sky Italia, Chelsea have submitted a bid in the region of €60m (£52m) to sign the French international from Roma.

To smooth discussions and meet the Italian club's evaluation, the Blues are prepared to send 22-year-old winger Jamie Gittens to the Stadio Olimpico. The proposed arrangement would see Chelsea bolster their central options as Enzo Fernandez moves closer to a Stamford Bridge exit.

Chelsea transfer signals Enzo Fernandez deal is close to completion

Chelsea’s late push for Kone comes against the backdrop of upheaval in their own midfield department. World Cup winner Fernandez remains subject to transfer interest from Manchester City, with a big-money move to the Etihad Stadium looking increasingly likely before the deadline passes.

Knowing that Fernandez’s departure to City could materialise in the final hours of the window, Chelsea's recruitment team have proactively pursued Kone to ensure manager Xabi Alonso is not left short-staffed in central areas.

In Kone, Chelsea would acquire a physical box-to-box midfielder who has established himself as a key performer in Serie A.

The 25-year-old’s ability to break up play, press aggressively, and drive forward with the ball makes him a good fit for Alonso, particularly if tasked with filling the void left by Fernandez.

Meanwhile, sending Gittens to Roma is a practical solution for all parties, having found regular starting opportunities limited in West London.

Roma have held a long-standing interest in the ex-Borussia Dortmund winger, having previously explored a loan deal earlier in the window.

With the transfer deadline fast approaching, negotiations between Chelsea and Roma are reportedly progressing quickly. If Chelsea finalise Fernandez's exit to Manchester City, the path will be cleared for Kone’s arrival at Stamford Bridge.

Tottenham Hotspur have splashed the cash this summer, but their spending has to continue if they’re serious about competing at the top of the Premier League again – and Victor Osimhen should be priority number one now.

It’s no secret that Spurs need firepower up top, after Richarlison showed precisely why he’s not up to the task with a poor performance against Brentford in the opening game of the season, and Dominic Solanke’s injury record making him an unreliable option.

Osimhen has long been regarded as one of the most talented strikers in the world, but has he ever truly lived up to that hype? Now is the time for him to prove it, and Tottenham is the perfect place to do that.

How much would Victor Osimhen cost Spurs?

One of the major stumbling blocks keeping Victor Osimhen from a move to the Premier League over the last few years has been his enormous wage demands. That’s arguably one of the main reasons he joined Galatasaray in the first place rather than securing a switch to one of Europe’s top five leagues.

The Turkish outfit paid roughly £35m up front for the Nigerian in the summer of 2025 after having him on loan the season prior. That deal also includes a reported £30m in additional payments down the line, taking the total transfer to around £65m (as per ESPN).

Osimhen is also thought to be on wages of approximately £310,000 per week (according to Capology), making him a very expensive man indeed. To put it into perspective, Tottenham’s wage budget has shifted this summer with the arrival of Sandro Tonali (on £200,000 per week) and Omar Marmoush (£250,000 per week, though it is unclear how much of that Spurs are paying during the loan from Manchester City).

Signing Osimhen would not only require Spurs to completely obliterate their current wage structure, but they would also have to splash out at least £100m on the 27-year-old.

Still, given Tottenham’s Financial Fair Play flexibility right now – largely thanks to the incredible revenue generated by the extra-curricular activities carried out at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium – that kind of money is, technically, feasible.

Spurs have spent roughly £320m so far this summer. However, under the Premier League Squad Cost Ratio (SCR) guidelines introduced this season, the club can allocate 85% of its total revenue on transfers and wages.

With that in mind, the Lilywhites could spend up to £480m without breaking any rules (they made £565m over the last tax year), and that’s before considering the potential sales of players like Richarlison, Pape Sarr and more still to come.

Victor Osimhen needs to prove himself in the Premier League

After modest spells with Charleroi in Belgium and Lille in France, Osimhen really hit the big time thanks to his goalscoring exploits at Napoli. There, he linked up with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to devastating effect and helped the Italian side win the Serie A title for the first time in 33 years.

Osimhen scored 26 league goals in that 2022/23 campaign, as well as another five in the Champions League. The following season, he scored another 15 in Serie A, and it seemed a move to the Premier League – namely Chelsea – was very much on the cards.

However, that move broke down amid Osimhen’s lofty wage demands. He rejected the switch to Stamford Bridge, while a move to the Saudi Pro League also fell through just before transfer deadline day, leaving him very much in limbo (as per ESPN). The only club left that was willing to pay Osimhen’s transfer fee and wages, and where the transfer window had not closed yet, was Galatasaray.

Two years later, it would probably be fair to say that Osimhen’s career is a little bit underwhelming. He’s got his goalscoring record, the Serie A title, and a couple of Turkish league titles, but he could and should have so much more. He should have been strutting his stuff in the Premier League, and I don’t think we can ever really credit him as one of his generation’s best strikers until he shows what he can do in England.

Tottenham’s system and style are ideal for Victor Osimhen

This summer, Osimhen is once again the subject of much speculation over his future. Reports from Turkey claim an offer of £128m from Al-Hilal has been rejected by Galatasaray. It is thought Osimhen would have even been given a pay rise had he moved to the Saudi outfit this summer, but money is not thought to be a driving factor in his thinking anymore.

Instead, it sounds like Osimhen is open to a big move – one that can truly further his career. Arsenal is a name that has been mooted. But, it’s the other side of North London that the forward should be looking at.

Under Roberto De Zerbi, Tottenham are back to a more slick, attacking style of play. Despite a lacklustre opening day defeat to Brentford, I firmly believe Spurs can challenge at the top of the table this season, especially once all the new signings click and De Zerbi’s methods really take hold.

Now, it would be safe to assume that, all being well, Omar Marmoush is going to lead the line for Spurs this season. However, one top player is not enough to transform this team, and that’s where Osimhen comes in. Having the Egyptian forward and Osimhen on rotation might be considered greedy or excessive by some, but it’s what Tottenham need if they’re serious about competing with Arsenal and the rest of the 'Big Six' once more.

For Osimhen, this system would provide the ideal platform to showcase his talents, too. Service out wide from players like Pedro Porro, Destiny Udogie, Mohammed Kudus, and new arrival Savio would be a dream for a poacher like Osimhen, who scores most of his goals inside the 18-yard box. He’s great in the air, so floated crosses would be a priority, but he’s just as adept at controlling the ball on the floor and working space for himself, before using his acute finishing to fire home.

Admittedly, creating chances has not been a strong point for Spurs in the last couple of seasons. But, even that wouldn’t necessarily be an issue for Osimhen, who is brilliant at creating opportunities out of thin air. The Nigerian striker has speed, strength, and a top football IQ, making him the kind of livewire that Tottenham have been lacking for a very, very long time.

Whereas Richarlison has always fed on those scraps in the box, and Dominic Solanke heavily relies on other players running around him and creating space, Osimhen can produce magic in the blink of an eye.

Tottenham’s attacking roster has improved massively, at least on paper, but Osimhen's arrival would turn a promising frontline into an almost unstoppable one.

I’ll start this week with the transfer talk concerning Julian Alvarez, who has his heart set on a move to Barcelona, despite Arsenal’s interest. He’d improve Mikel Arteta’s team considerably because he’s an out-and-out goalscorer, and is a different kind of player to Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz.

He's got pace, can cause problems, can drop in a hole, and score all kinds of goals. I think they’ll win the Premier League, but with that kind of player, you'd start thinking they could go on to dominate and win the Champions League as well.

Clinton was speaking courtesy of Free Bets, home of the best UK betting sites.

'Julian Alvarez signing takes Arsenal to the next level'

It’s clear that he wants to go to Barcelona, but Atletico Madrid don’t want to sell him to a rival. Although, if Barcelona are willing to pay the money, why wouldn’t Atletico sell him when they’ve got an unhappy player who’s lost the support of the fans?

Obviously, he can always win the fans back over by staying and scoring loads of goals for Atletico Madrid.

Another player who has been linked with a move away is Emiliano Martinez, who has reportedly been offered to Chelsea. He would improve them massively, particularly after Robert Sanchez’s performance against Fulham last Monday.

He can't get beaten by that Josh King strike. I don't like to be too critical of players, but it's not the first mistake he's made.

Even with the second Fulham goal — he's parried it back into the danger zone. I don't like to be too critical, especially as it was the first game of the season, but they clearly need to bring in a goalkeeper.

I know they've got Mike Penders from Strasbourg, but they need someone with more experience, and Martinez definitely fits the bill.

One player who’s already made a big-money move is Ayyoub Bouaddi. He’s someone with a lot of potential at just 18-years-old, and he’s a top talent. We saw what he could do at the World Cup, but the Premier League is a completely different type of test.

I like the way he takes the ball, and his confidence is something to admire. And everyone knows about Enzo Fernandez and his qualities.

He's going to get booed everywhere he goes this season, and will receive a lot of stick. But he's a good player, and I don’t think Chelsea want to lose him.

But it was interesting when Xabi Alonso said that he doesn't know what's going to happen, and wished the window was shut.

Usually when a manager says, 'No, my player is not for sale, he's not going anywhere,' then you know that's the truth. But he didn't say that about Enzo Fernandez. So, personally, I think it will happen.

I think Man City will pay the money and get Fernandez, after already signing Bouaddi. I hear they’ve also agreed a fee to sign the Brazilian winger Alan from Palmeiras, so it’s clear to see that City aren’t sitting still after losing Rodri.

Elsewhere, Ollie Watkins’ move to Al Hilal is an interesting one. It would be a massive coup for the Saudi League and their teams — because I cover a lot of the Saudi League and they're trying to sign a lot of top players. And you know why players are going there? Because the money looks after them and their families for years and years.

So I can probably understand why Watkins, who’s 30 and almost 31, and thinking that he could have a couple of years over there and look after his family.

He’ll be playing alongside the likes of Karim Benzema and Ruben Neves, with Al Hilal building a team that they feel can win the league, because Cristiano Ronaldo’s team, Al Nassr, won it last season. So it'll be interesting, and a good move for Watkins.

Finally, there are some cracking games to look forward to in the Premier League this weekend, and Aston Villa versus Arsenal on Monday night is one which stands out to me. Villa always give Arsenal a good game at Villa Park.

It'll be interesting to see if Ezri Konsa is involved, but more so to see how Villa react after their heavy defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion last weekend.

We know Villa are short — they've lost four key players in Lucas Digne, Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, and Konsa. It looks like they’ll lose Watkins too, so they need to strengthen. But the Villa fans will rightly trust Unai Emery.

It's not an easy start for them, and they're playing against everyone's tip to win the Premier League, but I think they'll make it difficult for Arsenal.

Aston Villa’s pursuit of AC Milan star Rafael Leao has effectively been brought to an end following a major breakthrough in negotiations for Paris Saint-Germain starlet Ibrahim Mbaye.

As revealed by The Athletic's David Ornstein, Villa have reached an agreement in principle to sign the 18-year-old winger in a deal worth €55 million (£46.5m).

The strong personal relationship between PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and Villa co-owner Nassef Sawiris is cited to have been key in closing the agreement, with final formalities reportedly now underway.

Rafael Leao will not become an Aston Villa player - but PSG teenager might

Villa had emerged as serious contenders for Leao in recent days. According to reports from Sky Sports and Italian transfer insider Gianluca Di Marzio, manager Unai Emery had even held direct talks with the Portuguese international to explain his vision.

However, a €55m outlay for Mbaye, who operates in the same left-sided attacking berth, signals that Villa have seemingly chosen their primary long-term option, drawing a firm line under a potential deal for Leao, too.

The acquisition of Mbaye comes amid a turbulent summer overhaul at Villa Park.

Following a high-profile squad firesale that has seen core members of their Europa League-winning squad including Morgan Rogers, Lucas Digne, Ezri Konsa, and Youri Tielemans depart, Emery has been forced to rebuild his unit under strict financial conditions.

With further uncertainty surrounding the futures of Ollie Watkins and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, bringing in fresh talent was deemed essential.

Mbaye has been involved in on-and-off talks with Villa for several months, with the Midlands club long identifying him as a target.

While discussions hit impasses earlier in the window and Mbaye entertained offers from other clubs, negotiations have clearly reignited as the transfer deadline approached. Now, the Senegalese international teenager is finally set to secure his move to the Premier League, while putting an end to the Leao rumours.

Liverpool and Chelsea have entered a late-window battle to secure the signature of AS Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara.

Both Premier League clubs are reportedly weighing up a move ahead of Tuesday's transfer deadline.

According to a report from Foot Mercato, both sides have registered interest in the 22-year-old Senegalese international as they scramble for late midfield reinforcements.

Liverpool and Chelsea go head-to-head for Senegal midfielder

At Stamford Bridge, the sudden urgency to land Camara stems from an impending major departure. Enzo Fernandez looks increasingly likely to join Manchester City before the window shuts, leaving the Blues searching for a dynamic replacement to replace the World Cup winner.

Losing the Argentine would certainly impact Chelsea's midfield structure, making the signing of a proven, high-energy operator a priority for the club's recruitment team.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are yet to submit a formal proposal but it's reported they admire the player and could yet make a move.

Camara could prove to be the solution to their own tactical vulnerability. Liverpool’s midfield has been having ongoing issues, and Andoni Iraola's side remain uncomfortably threadbare in central positions following recent squad moves.

With starting options facing demanding workloads across domestic and European commitments this season, securing an additional, durable midfield option before the deadline is viewed by many fans as vital business.

Camara is one of French football's most dynamic young midfielders. The former Metz and Generation Foot prodigy is a box-to-box operator who combines tackling and ball recovery with press-resistant traits such as ball-carrying and forward passing.

At Chelsea, Camara would likely slot in alongside Moises Caicedo, providing the mobility, counter-pressing, and defensive discipline needed to balance what is one of the league's most exciting attacks. His work-rate would go some way to cushioning the blow of Fernandez’s likely departure, too.

At Anfield, Camara’s versatile profile aligns neatly with Iraola's tactical and physical demands for his central pivot.

Capable of functioning either as a deep-lying midfielder or a roaming central box-to-box option, he would offer cover and rotation for both Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch. Camara's ability to break up opposition counter-attacks before quickly advancing possession would give Liverpool the balance they appeared to lack on the opening weekend of the new season.

It remains to be seen what Monaco's asking price will be, but Camara is valued at €40m by Transfermarkt and has three years remaining on his contract, which is likely to be a lucrative deal given the tax exemptions afforded to players in the principality.

Arsenal could pivot to bring in Marcus Rashford from Manchester United before deadline day.

That's according to a new report that says there is “internal surprise” at London Colney that the Gunners are looking to sell Gabriel Martinelli after seven years of service before bringing in a replacement.

While Arsenal are still in the market for Julian Alvarez in the event that the Argentine opts to leave Atletico Madrid, there are fewer options at this stage of the market, with several big targets' futures decided.

Marcus Rashford could move to Arsenal in “temporary” deal

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has expressed his interest in keeping Rashford as part of his squad this season, even bringing the England international off the bench last week in the defeat to newly promoted Hull City.

With the forward one of the Red Devils' highest earners, however, owner Jim Ratcliffe has been happy to move Rashford on in the last few years, with loans to Aston Villa and Barcelona helping to alleviate the wage bill at Old Trafford.

Miguel Delaney of The Independent has now written that the United academy graduate remains an option for Mikel Arteta's side – though Arsenal aren't desperate to sign either Rashford or their big target, Alvarez.

“If Arsenal don’t get [Alvarez], they are relatively relaxed,” Delaney says, adding, “There is some internal surprise they let Gabriel Martinelli go before securing an alternative in that area, although some sources believe it could see Arsenal move for Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford on a temporary deal.

“It’s just as possible they keep the money and wait.”

Arsenal have had a number of major setbacks in the transfer window this summer, with interest in Morgan Rogers, Vinicius Jr and Bradley Barcola at one stage or another.

While Rogers shocked the Gunners by going to Chelsea and Vinicius turned down Arteta's advances to sign an improved deal at Real Madrid, Barcola is on the cusp of signing for Liverpool, without Arsenal ever putting in a serious offer in the end for the Frenchman.

If Arsenal do sell Martinelli and fail in their pursuit of Alvarez, that would leave Arteta with just Christos Tzolis as an out-and-out left-winger – though the Basque brought Eberechi Eze on in his place last week in the win over Coventry City.

Noni Madueke could well play on that flank, too, while youngster Max Dowman could feature on the left as well.

Rashford is worth €40m, according to Transfermarkt. Arsenal face Aston Villa when Premier League action continues next weekend.

Doubt has been cast on Newcastle United’s anticipated sale of Nick Pope following a disastrous European night for Scottish champions Celtic.

The Bhoys' failure to secure qualification for the UEFA Champions League league phase this season has somewhat altered their financial outlook in the final days of the summer transfer window, placing Pope’s proposed move to Parkhead on the brink of collapse.

Celtic's drop into the Europa League will inflict a blow to their finances for the 2026/27 campaign.

Celtic may be forced to reassess Newcastle transfer

Under UEFA’s prize money distribution framework, reaching the Champions League league phase guarantees a club an automatic starting fee of €18.62m (£15.7m).

However, participation in the Europa League pays out just €4.31m (£3.6m) by comparison, representing a revenue deficit of €14.31m (£12.1m).

Overall, Celtic's defeat by Austrian side LASK Linz is expected to cost the club between £21m-30m in potential revenue - an especially bitter pill to swallow given the lead they held in the fixture.

This financial shortfall could leave last season's Scottish Premiership winners struggling to justify the expenditure required to land veteran goalkeeper Pope.

FourFourTwo understands Nick Pope's Newcastle deal saw the England goalkeeper remunerated increasingly year-on-year, meaning his current earnings are likely to surpass Celtic's current wage structure.

While Newcastle remain willing to sanction the move to streamline their own goalkeeping department, Celtic may not be able to comfortably accommodate Pope’s Premier League salary without a financial safety net of Champions League football.

Without Champions League participation and the revenue stream it guarantees, Celtic’s decision-makers could now be forced to reassess whether Pope remains an essential signing in the final days of the transfer window.

Arsenal are readying themselves to potentially let go of a player who only joined this summer.

The Gunners have been measured during the transfer window, adding Ezri Konsa to the defence, Bruno Guimaraes to the midfield and Christos Tzolis to the attack, with Julian Alvarez targeted as the marquee buy of the window.

But it's actually in goal that Arsenal could well see a shock departure before deadline.

Arsenal readying themselves for Illan Meslier approach from Marseille

French custodian Illan Meslier was manager Mikel Arteta's first signing of the summer, arriving at London Colney to compete with Kepa Arrizabalaga for a chance to be David Raya's backup.

World Cup-winning Spaniard Raya is an undroppable first choice between the sticks for the Gunners, having won the Premier League Golden Glove in each of the last three seasons – and FourFourTwo understands that his place is as untouchable in the side as the likes of Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka.

There could well be movement in the goalkeeping department though, according to journalist Santi Aouna, who has claimed in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that Marseille are looking at Meslier.

Aouna claims that “Marseille still need to trim the squad before they can make concrete progress”, but could well make a loan move for the Frenchman before next week's transfer deadline.

Arsenal have been widely expected to sanction a loan move for 20-year-old Tommy Setford, who served as a third-choice keeper for Arteta last season – however, this new development suggests that Dutch-born England youth international may well stick around for another season, with Meslier heading out instead.

The Premier League champions have had heavy turnover when it comes to goalkeepers, having signed one every year since Arteta took the reins as manager.

In 2020, FA Cup-winning Emiliano Martinez departed for Aston Villa, to be replaced by Alex Runarsson, who in turn was upgraded when the Gunners signed Mat Ryan on loan in January, and again in the summer of 2021, when Aaron Ramsdale signed to be the club's new No.1.

USMNT glovesman Matt Turner signed in 2022 to replace the ousted Bernd Leno as Ramsdale's backup, before Raya signed in 2023 on loan – and then permanently in 2024.

With Ramsdale exiting in the summer of 2024, the North Londoners brought Neto in on loan from Bournemouth, before Kepa became the club's cup keeper when he signed from Chelsea 12 months ago.

Meslier is worth €8m, according to Transfermarkt. Arsenal face Aston Villa when Premier League action continues next weekend.

Tottenham Hotspur are still in the market for another striker, with one Bundesliga star targeted.

This summer has been the busiest in N17 for some time, with Jan Paul van Hecke, Sandro Tonali, Matheus Fernandes and Savio signed for a combined £300 million, and Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi both joining on free transfers.

But even though Tottenham are on the cusp of announcing Omar Marmoush next, the transfer business still isn't complete, as another Bundesliga hitman has been targeted.

Tottenham Hotspur in the market for another striker

Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport has revealed that Spurs are in for Igor Matanovic of Freiburg, along with Manchester United.

Despite the Lilywhites having landed Marmoush, to add to a forward line that also includes Richarlison and Dominic Solanke, they would reportedly like to add Croatian Matanovic – which is complicating Fiorentina's pursuit of the forward.

To add further drama to the saga, Tottenham sporting director Fabio Paratici is now at the Viola, as the North Londoners look to get one over on a familiar face from the Daniel Levy years.

Spurs and Paratici are believed, however, to be on good terms, and even did business over the summer with Fiorentina signing defensive flop Radu Dragusin on loan.

As relayed by Sport Witness, “The Italian side believe Matanovic is the heir to Mario Mandzukic for the Croatian national team,” thanks to his excellent aerial ability – something that Solanke offers a little more than Richarlison or Marmoush.

United are also looking to the 23-year-old to bolster their attacking depth, though their interest may hinge on Joshua Zirkzee's status as a Red Devil by the end of the transfer window.

Spurs were humbled 3-0 at the weekend against Brentford but recovered to beat Charlton Athletic 5-1 in the Carabao Cup third round last night, as manager Roberto De Zerbi looks to turn around a dreadful two seasons in North London, in which the club have suffered back-to-back 17th-placed finishes.

Heavy spending in the transfer market has been offset by big sales in the form of Cristian Romero, Djed Spence and Luka Vuskovic, all fetching over £30m each in transfer fees.

Spurs have also been busy renewing key players' contracts, with Ben Davies, Pedro Porro, Antonin Kinsky and Micky van de Ven all rewarded with bumper new deals.

Matanovic is worth €22m, according to Transfermarkt. Tottenham play Newcastle United when Premier League action continues next weekend.

Arsenal have reached an agreement for the purchase of Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid.

That's according to a new report, which says that the Argentine is closer than ever before to a return to the Premier League, following a breakdown in his relationship with Rojiblancos fans.

Alvarez was booed and whistled at the Metropolitano after publicly stating that it was his “dream” to leave – with Arsenal ready to capitalise on Atletico's refusal to sell to Barcelona.

An 'agreement exists' between Arsenal and Atletico Madrid

Sport Witness have relayed news from Spanish publication AS, which claims that Alvarez is “starting to see” that the Premier League champions are his only chance to leave Diego Simeone's team this summer.

Though Barcelona are interested in signing the World Cup winner, Atletico are unwilling to discuss a move for the star with a rival – and with a release clause set at over £400 million, negotiations can't begin without their consent.

Arsenal have been quoted a price of £128m, and now AS says that an “agreement between the clubs exists” for a €150m deal, plus Viktor Gyokeres heading to Spain in the opposite direction.

Gyokeres was manager Mikel Arteta's top scorer in all competitions last term as the club won the league and reached the final of the Champions League, but has come under criticism for his lack of all-round game and didn't make it off the bench for the first game of the season against his former club, Coventry City.

Now, all Arsenal need is an agreement with Alvarez – though that has always been the sticking point in any deal.

Earlier this summer, Arteta spoke to Alvarez personally to convince the former Manchester City forward to come to North London – but his preference remains to go to Barcelona.

Barça, meanwhile, have been linked with the likes of Gyokeres and Gabriel Jesus to bolster their frontline following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres.

Arsenal are closing in on the sale of Gabriel Martinelli to Al Hilal, with Alvarez an option to play either on the left or at centre-forward.

Alvarez is worth €120m, according to Transfermarkt. Arsenal face Aston Villa when Premier League action continues next weekend.

Arsenal’s ongoing quest to bolster their frontline has seen them linked with superstar names such as Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. and the like.

However, smart recruitment often lies in identifying world-class potential before the price tag hits eye-watering figures.

Enter Olympique Lyonnais' 21-year-old winger Malick Fofana.

Arsenal have found their cut-price Martinelli replacement

The Belgian international, who operates on the left-hand side, has suddenly become much more affordable following the French outfit's failure to qualify for the Champions League.

In last night's agonising Champions League play-off second leg against Fenerbahce, Lyon fought back to level the aggregate score in the second half. What appeared to be their decisive goal, though, was ruled out by VAR, allowing Fenerbahce to prevail and consigning Lyon to the Europa League.

Lyon's failure carries significant financial consequences for a club that has been no stranger to balance sheet issues in recent times.

Under UEFA’s current distribution model, reaching the Champions League league phase guarantees earnings of €18.62 million (£15.7m) simply for participation.

By contrast, dropping into the Europa League yields a modest base fee of just €4.31m (£3.6m) - an immediate deficit of €14.31m (£12.1m).

Similarly, a victory in the Champions League yields €2.1m (£1.8m) compared to the Europa League's €450k (£386k).

Factoring in the diminished value pillar allocations alongside the smaller performance bonuses, Lyon stand to miss out on an estimated €30m to €40m (£25m–£34m) in total European revenue this season.

For a club already walking a financial tightrope, this shortfall is the worst case scenario.

Severe financial distress nearly saw Lyon demoted to Ligue 2 by the DNCG (Direction Nationale du Contrôle de Gestion) - the financial watchdog and regulatory body for professional football clubs in France - a couple of summers ago, compelling them to sell players like Rayan Cherki to Manchester City on the cheap.

According to French journalist Romain Molina, Lyon must generate €100m (£86m) before June 30, 2027 or risk sanctions from the relevant financial and regulatory bodies again. Most of that figure is likely to come from player sales, meaning members of the squad like Fofana will probably be jettisoned.

This hands Mikel Arteta, Arsenal and other interested suitors, something of a transfer open goal.

With Gabriel Martinelli looking set to join Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, Fofana could offer Arteta an option as a replacement and long-term ceiling-raiser.

Where a player like Vinicius Jr. would have commanded an astronomical fee well over £150m alongside structure-busting wage demands, Lyon’s vulnerable negotiating position means Fofana can be acquired for a fraction of that cost. Arsenal have effectively been given the green light, but must move swiftly to capitalise before competitor clubs swoop in.

Arsenal could be about to sign another defender before the transfer window closes.

The Gunners are clear in their intention to upgrade an attack that stuttered at times during their Premier League-winning campaign – but are yet to sign a big-money forward, with just left-winger Christos Tzolis added for a modest fee.

Yet the temptation to bring in yet another defensive face might be too much for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to resist, with an opportunity having arisen in recent days.

Arsenal in for another defensive signing

Arteta has improved his defence and defensive midfield this summer, with acquisitions for Ezri Konsa and Bruno Guimaraes totalling over £120 million.

And now, ESPN Brazil says that the champions could be about to spend on another defender in the form of Santos teenager Joao Ananias.

The Gunners are among a throng of clubs interested in the 19-year-old, which includes Brentford, Atletico Madrid and Besiktas, with only the Istanbul-based outfit submitting a concrete offer so far.

The report states that Benfica came close to signing Ananias for £6 million in June, though failed to come to an agreement with Santos, who are using those negotiations as a “reference point for any new talks”.

The centre-back is under contract until 2030, but with the Alvinegro's financial situation demanding sales, a departure could help to balance the books.

In adding Konsa to their squad, Arsenal now have eight players who can play in central defence, with Ben White, Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel, Cristhian Mosquera, Pierro Hincapie and Riccardo Calafiori the other seven.

FourFourTwo understands that the club are exercising caution around the back injury that Saliba sustained during the World Cup, while Declan Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Martin Zubimendi are all candidates to play at full-back in a pinch – but it would not be unusual for Arteta to bring in another centre-back to develop.

Rob Holding was used as an emergency option towards the end of his Arsenal career, with the Gunners bringing the long-serving centre-back to shore up the backline and offer experience, even from the bench.

16-year-old Marli Salmon has made four appearances for Arsenal's senior side in defence, too, and may well feature across this campaign.

Ananias is worth €500k, according to Transfermarkt. Arsenal face Aston Villa when Premier League action continues next weekend.

Manchester United have a squad full of exciting talents.

Club captain Bruno Fernandes was arguably the best player in the Premier League last season, new signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have bedded in nicely, while Marcus Rashford, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba could well add plenty of star quality to manager Michael Carrick's team this term.

And yet, Manchester United legend Lee Sharpe didn't name any of them when FourFourTwo asked him which current star he wished he'd played alongside…

Lee Sharpe names Joshua Zirkzee as the Manchester United player he wished he'd played with

“Joshua Zirkzee is one of my favourite players to watch,” Sharpe somewhat surprisingly responded when asked for a current Red Devil he'd have loved to line up with, courtesy of esports betting at Thunderpick.

“His ability on the ball is phenomenal: in tight areas, he's got great feet and the ability to go past people.

I'm surprised they didn't play him a bit more or give him a chance at the weekend against Hull. It was tight and they needed goals, after all.”

“Surprised you didn't say Bruno,” FourFourTwo asked.

“Well, I really like Kobbie Mainoo, too,” Sharpe responded. “Mainoo is a top player as well.” Fair enough!

Zirkzee arrived at Old Trafford two years ago during Erik ten Hag's tenure as manager, getting off to a flier with a goal on the first day of the 2024/25 season against Fulham – but has struggled to hold down a first-team place since then.

The emergence of Cunha, Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko limited the Dutchman to just 26 appearances in all competitions last term, and a return of just two goals, both of which came under Carrick's predecessor, Ruben Amorim.

Zirkzee has been linked with a move away from United this summer, as Rashford returns from loan to compete for a starting berth.

The Red Devils also have the likes of Mason Mount and Patrick Dorgu competing for places in attack.

Zirkzee is worth €20m, according to Transfermarkt. United face Ipswich Town when Premier League action continues next weekend.