Arsenal are plotting an audacious move for Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr and want to sign the Brazil winger this summer. The Premier League champions are preparing to offer the 26-year-old the biggest contract in their history but have yet to make contact with Real Madrid over the move, who has just one more year on his contract, while incoming boss at the Bernabeu, Jose Mourinho, would need to sanction the transfer.
It could be a busy few weeks for Mikel Arteta’s side as they also look to sign Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes and add another centre-back, with England internationals Ezri Konsa and John Stones both of interest. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe confirmed that he wants to keep Guimaraes, but added that his future at the club is out of his control.
Elsewhere, Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola has set out his targets for the transfer window and has confirmed the Reds “definitely need to sign a winger”, while France international Bradley Barcola is reportedly open to leaving Paris Saint-Germain this summer. PSG, who are set to miss out on the signing Yan Diomande to Real Madrid, would demand a record fee, however.
Manchester United are still interested in adding another midfielder and have “reached an agreement in principle” with France international Manu Kone, according to reports in Italy. Aurelien Tchouameni remains a target, too.
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Xabi Alonso explains how Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer can shine together at Chelsea: ‘I have a plan’
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has lauded new signing Morgan Rogers as an “ideal” acquisition, predicting an exciting midfield partnership with Cole Palmer.
The England international, who registered an assist for Anthony Gordon in the World Cup semi-final defeat by Argentina earlier this month, joined the west London club last week from Aston Villa on a contract extending until 2033.
The reported £117 million transfer fee makes the 24-year-old the most expensive British player in history, a significant investment for a club looking to rebuild after finishing 10th in the Premier League last season.
Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s pre-season friendly against Western Sydney Wanderers, the 44-year-old manager stated: “In that position, we needed an important player, and I’m sure that there were not many more better options than Morgan. It means a lot for everyone.”
DONE DEAL! Manchester United sign new goalkeeper
Manchester United have announced the signing of young goalkeeper Kit Margetson from Swansea.
The 19-year-old did not make a senior appearance for the Swans but went on loan to Welsh Premier League side Connah’s Quay Nomads last season, where he kept 10 clean sheets in 34 appearances.
The Wales youth keeper, the son of former international Martyn Margetson, made his Under-21s debut for his nation against Belarus in March.
Margetson will move to Old Trafford subject to registration, after the two clubs agreed a compensation package.
Facebook co-founder approached over Liverpool stake
Eduardo Saverin, a co-founder of Facebook, has reportedly been approached to join a consortium plotting to acquire a significant stake in Liverpool
Sky News reports that Saverin, whose personal wealth is estimated at a staggering $32.4bn (£24.3bn) by the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, was contacted several weeks ago.
This move is part of an ongoing group effort to become the Anfield club’s second-largest shareholder, which has already seen Jeff Bezos enter the mix.
Man City continue talks with Ayyoub Bouaddi as Josko Gvardiol nears contract extension
Manchester City are still in direct talks with Lille over a move for World Cup breakout star Ayyoub Bouaddi, according to Fabrizio Romano.
City are the club most interested in the Moroccan but could opt for him to join in 2027 rather than this summer.
Meanwhile, Josko Gvardiol is set to sign a contract extension at the Etihad until 2031.
Chelsea considering move for Welbeck
Chelsea are reportedly considering a move for Brighton’s Danny Welbeck.
The Daily Mail says that the leadership offered by the 35-year-old striker is favoured by Xabi Alonso and the prospect of securing Welbeck’s services is a decent one.
Welbeck has just 12 months left on his contract with the Seagulls and is in fine form having scored 13 goals in the top flight last season – a best ever return during his Premier League career.
Andrea Pirlo to Italy off after Russian betting link
Andrea Pirlo is no longer in line to coach crisis-hit Italy due to political concerns over a sponsorship deal with a Russian betting firm.
Pirlo himself confirmed that he was out in an Instagram post Monday, saying he “heard last night that I’m no longer the candidate for the Italy national team job.”
Several Italian politicians had raised concerns about Pirlo’s contract to be an ambassador for Fonbet, saying the national team coach should not have conflicting views on Italy’s support for Ukraine in the war with Russia.
World Cup final referee Slavko Vincic retires days after controversial Spain vs Argentina clash
Slavko Vincic, the referee who officiated the recent World Cup final, has announced his retirement just a week after the tournament’s conclusion.
The Slovenian official faced widespread criticism for his handling of Argentina’s physical approach during their 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain, a match in which he sent off Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez in stoppage time.
Al-Hilal open talks over Iliman Ndiaye
Al Hilal have opened talks to try sign Iliman Ndiaye from Everton, according to Fabrizio Romando.
Negotiations are in their early stages but Al-Hilal want one more big name to come through the door this summer after signing Crysencio Summerville from West Ham.
The player is open to discussions but whether a deal can happen will depend on Everton’s willingness to sell, with the price up to them.
Galatasaray officially deny Jamal Musiala loan rumours
Galatasaray have officially denied rumours linking them with a loan move for Bayern Munich star Jamal Musiala.
“Statement from Galatasaray: The news circulating today on social media and digital platforms claiming that our club has reached an agreement with Jamal Musiala and Bayern Munich is not true. Presented for the information of the public,” the club said.
It is not believed Bayern plan to part ways with Musiala after his injury-ridden season.
Barcelona interested in Junior Kroupi?
Bournemouth sensation Junior Kroupi has attracted the interest of numerous big hitters, and now Barcelona have joined the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham in the race for the Frenchman.
That’s according to Marca, who cite Barca’s interest but confirm that Bournemouth do not want to sell.
His 13 Premier League goals last term set a new record for the most goals scored by a teenager in a debut season in the English top flight.
