
A hectic end to the summer transfer window could be in store as Premier League clubs scramble to get deals done ahead of Tuesday night’s deadline.
Cody Gakpo is set to leave Liverpool and join Manchester City in a shock move after Bradley Barcola’s £120m move from Paris Saint-Germain was agreed. If Gakpo departs, the Reds could sign another winger, with previous interest in Ismaila Sarr from Crystal Palace having moved on from Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh.
Atletico Madrid remain steadfast on keeping Julian Alvarez or moving him to a club that is not Barcelona – and Arsenal could yet make a late push for the Argentina striker.
Manchester City remain in talks to sign Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea, who brought in Emiliano Martinez over the weekend to solve their goalkeeping question. If Fernandez does leave, Chelsea may target a new midfielder, with previous interest in Bournemouth’s Alex Scott.
Follow all of the latest news, rumours and done deals below:
Read MoreMan City target Cody Gakpo but one hurdle remains for Liverpool to sanction sale
Arsenal’s Julian Alvarez gamble has paid off – with two cards still to play
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Transfer news - live updates
- Transfer window nearing close with Tuesday's deadline looming large
- Liverpool's Cody Gakpo chooses Manchester City as new club in shock move
- Julian Alvarez returns to training with Atletico Madrid future uncertain
- Arsenal and Barcelona interested in 26-year-old with valuation set around £128m
- Liverpool agree fee for PSG's Bradley Barcola as Reds prepare medical for winger
- Man City hold interest in Enzo Fernandez as Chelsea leave midfielder out of squad
- Everton eye Folarin Balogun and Richarlison as attacking reinforcements
Richarlison in talks over shock Everton return – with Iliman Ndiaye moving other way to Tottenham
10:00 , Richard JollyTottenham and Everton are in talks about deals that could take Iliman Ndiaye to London and bring Richarlison back to Merseyside.
Spurs have targeted the Everton attacker as Roberto De Zerbi looks to complete the expensive overhaul of his forward line after they failed to score while losing their first two league games of the season.
Tottenham have brought in Savio for a minimum of £75m, which could rise to £85m, and Omar Marmoush, on a loan that will become a £60m purchase, from Manchester City.
Now they are looking to add Senegal international Ndiaye, who has scored 15 Premier League goals for Everton since his £15m move from Marseille two years ago.
Richarlison in talks over shock Everton return – with Ndiaye moving to Spurs
Everton in for Folarin Balogun
09:58 , Miguel DelaneyEverton are understood to have made a move for Folarin Balogun as David Moyes seeks attacking reinforcements at the end of the transfer window. The USA international may not be the only forward on his way in...
Chelsea prepared for 'all scenarios' regarding Enzo Fernandez's future
09:45 , Harry Latham-CoyleXabi Alonso said Chelsea are preparing for “all scenarios” regarding Enzo Fernandez’s future after the midfielder was left out again for the 4-3 win over Brighton at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues lost control of a match they seemingly had won inside 30 minutes, a scintillating attacking display that had seen them go three goals up disintegrating into chaos in the absence of their World Cup winner in midfield.
Manchester City’s interest in Fernandez and the player’s desire to leave before Tuesday’s transfer deadline meant that for the second game in a row Alonso opted not to involve him and, asked whether the Argentinian had played his last game for Chelsea, he said: “We’ll see. We want the best for the team and that’s why we took the decision against Luton (on Thursday) and today.
“We have to be aware (until) Tuesday evening what is going to develop. We’re not sure. We are preparing for all scenarios. I’m sure that, whatever happens, from Wednesday we will have a good enough squad to compete in the Premier League.”
Julian Alvarez returns to training
09:30 , Harry Latham-CoyleJulian Alvarez did return to training with his Atletico Madrid teammates on Sunday with his future in Spain unclear. It feels certain that he will not end up at Barcelona – but little else is clear.
Could Arsenal make a renewed push for Julian Alvarez?
09:25 , Harry Latham-CoyleAre Arsenal clearing space to have a last go at luring Julian Alvarez? Miguel Delaney explains the situation...
Arsenal’s Julian Alvarez gamble has paid off – with two cards still to play
Gabriel Martinelli and Fabio Vieira also bound for Arsenal exit
09:15 , Harry Latham-CoyleArsenal’s attacking clearout continues apace – Gabriel Martinelli appears finally ready to complete his switch to Al-Hilal, while Fabio Vieira may be Hamburg-bound. The German club are said to be in advanced talks for the Portuguese creator.
Barcelona close in on Gabriel Jesus deal
09:05 , Harry Latham-CoyleBarcelona are closing in on the signing of Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus.
The deal for the Brazil international is believed to be worth 10 million euros (£8.6m) and is expected to be completed before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.
Jesus had also been linked with a move to Serie A side Napoli.
Man City target Cody Gakpo but one hurdle remains for Liverpool to sanction sale
08:55 , Richard JollyManchester City have made contact with Liverpool about Cody Gakpo as they try to sign the forward before the end of the transfer window.
But Liverpool are unsure whether they can allow Gakpo to go as they consider whether City’s late move would give them time to bring in further signings.
City are looking for replacements for Savio and Omar Marmoush, who have both joined Tottenham, for an initial £75m and a loan that will become a £60m purchase respectively.
Man City target Cody Gakpo but one hurdle remains for Liverpool to sanction sale
Transfer news LIVE
08:44 , Harry Latham-CoyleA very good morning. There are just two days left for Premier League clubs to get deals done as the transfer window deadline looms large. Will Arsenal make a renewed push for Julian Alvarez? Is Enzo Fernandez bound for Manchester City? And could there be another shock or two in store at the close of a chaotic summer?
We’ll have all of the latest throughout the day.
Liverpool agree fee for PSG's Bradley Barcola as Reds prepare medical for winger
08:00 , Mike JonesBradley Barcola is set to join Liverpool after they reached a final agreement with Paris Saint-Germain for his big-money transfer.
Liverpool will pay an initial £106m for the France winger, which could rise to £123m, including add-ons, and he is expected to sign a five-year deal at Anfield.
They had reached an outline agreement with Paris Saint-Germain earlier this week after a breakthrough in negotiations.
Bradley Barcola set for big-money move to Liverpool as deal agreed
More movement at Aston Villa? Ibrahim Mbaye fee 'agreed'
06:00 , Mike JonesAston Villa’s busy summer looks set to continue: David Ornstein of The Athletic reports that Unai Emery’s side have reached an “agreement in principle” to sign 18-year-old winger Ibrahim Mbaye from Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain.
Mbaye was linked to Liverpool earlier in the window and has been left out of PSG’s squad for the last three games, along with the outgoing Bradley Barcola. The Athletic report that Villa have reached a €55m (£47m) for the forward.
Meanwhile, Villa target Rafael Leao is set to join Galatasaray from AC Milan. Sky Sports report that Leao has accepted the move after Villa did not match Galatasaray’s offer on wages.
Villa have signed Nicolas Jackson after the departures of Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers, and have signed Johan Manzambi too.
Man City hold interest in Enzo Fernandez with Chelsea prepared to sell midfielder
04:00 , Mike JonesXabi Alonso said he wants players that “feel a desire to play” for Chelsea after Enzo Fernandez was left out of the squad for Thursday’s win over Luton.
Chelsea are open to Fernandez leaving before the transfer deadline, but Manchester City would need to pay more than the £120m asking price the Blues set earlier in the window.
Alonso has dismissed reports in Argentina that Fernandez asked not to be involved in the game against Luton and speaking ahead of Sunday’s Premier League game at home to Brighton, Alonso said: “We need the players that are in the best situation to play.
“We need to take everything into consideration, players that are in good moments, players that are not feeling that energy to play. For me it’s very important that they feel that desire to play and to have good preparation.
“We talked, and we decided that (for Luton) it was better not to be part of the squad. He’s a top player, there’s no doubt about that.”
Man City target Cody Gakpo but one hurdle remains for Liverpool to sanction sale
02:00 , Mike JonesManchester City have made contact with Liverpool about Cody Gakpo as they try to sign the forward before the end of the transfer window.
But Liverpool are unsure whether they can allow Gakpo to go as they consider whether City’s late move would give them time to bring in further signings.
City are looking for replacements for Savio and Omar Marmoush, who have both joined Tottenham, for an initial £75m and a loan that will become a £60m purchase respectively.
Man City target Cody Gakpo but one hurdle remains for Liverpool to sanction sale
Julian Alvarez misses training again before Atletico Madrid's deadline for offers
Monday 31 August 2026 00:00 , Mike JonesAtletico Madrid have given Arsenal target Julian Alvarez a deadline of Sunday to decide his future, with his options either to consider a move to the Premier League champions or stay at the club.
Atletico’s chief executive said the Argentina star will “never, ever” be sold to Barcelona, his preferred choice, with Alvarez now considering his options.
The 26-year-old will not feature in the squad to play Sevilla this weekend after missing three consecutive days of training, with boss Diego Simeone confirming his absence.
The Bruno Fernandes show gives Manchester United lift off in Premier League
Sunday 30 August 2026 23:00 , Richard JollyThe United captain scored a hat-trick and set up another goal as his team ran riot at Old Trafford.
The Bruno Fernandes show gives Manchester United lift off in Premier League
Newcastle eye Lille striker?
Sunday 30 August 2026 22:00 , Jack RathbornNewcastle are pursuing a deal for Matias Fernandez-Pardo.
The 21-year-old Lille striker is on the radar of Matthias Jaissle ahead of Tuesday’s deadline, reports Sky Sport Germany’s Florian Plettenberg.
The Belgium international hit eight goals in Ligue 1 last term.
Liverpool linked with talented young Belgian goalkeeper
Sunday 30 August 2026 21:00 , Jack RathbornWith speculation linking Giorgi Mamardashvili with a move away from Liverpool, the Reds have been linked with Lucca Brughmans to replace him, reports Sacha Tavolieri.
Bayern Munich are also keen on the Genk starlet, but the Reds would like the Belgian goalkeeper to back up Alisson Becker, adds the report.
At just 18, the Belgium Under-19 international could be developed behind the Brazilian until the time comes to move on.
Robert Sanchez's Chelsea future in doubt
Sunday 30 August 2026 20:00 , PARobert Sanchez’s Chelsea future appears in serious doubt after he was left out of the squad for Sunday’s 4-3 win against Brighton.
The signing of Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa was confirmed hours before kick-off at Stamford Bridge and the World Cup winner went straight into the side.
Mike Penders, who is considered a possible future number one by the club, was named on the bench and the 21-year-old appears now to be Xabi Alonso’s back-up keeper.
It means Sanchez, whose errors in Monday’s 3-2 win over Fulham prompted the club to bring in Martinez, is likely no longer to be in the manager’s plans.
Karim Benzema to leave Al-Hilal?
Sunday 30 August 2026 19:00 , Jack RathbornKarim Benzema is set to leave Al-Hilal, Foot Mercato reports.
The former Ballon d’Or winner joined the Saudi Pro League in 2023 after exiting the Bernabeu following a legendary run with Real Madrid.
And after a spell with Al-Ittihad for three years, and a short spell with Al-Hilal, including 57 goals in total, the 38-year-old is now available for a new adventure.
Liverpool's Cody Gakpo chooses Manchester City as new club in shock move
Sunday 30 August 2026 18:30 , Jack RathbornAn extraordinary transfer about to happen, it seems: Cody Gakpo is heading to Manchester City in what is thought to be a deal worth around £85m!
Multiple reports tonight say Gapko has chosen City over Spurs (or indeed staying at Liverpool), despite the competition for places at the Etihad.
His mind was made up by the signing of Bradley Barcola at Anfield, and now Liverpool will try to bring in another player to replace Gakpo before the deadline.
DONE DEAL! Ollie Watkins leaves Aston Villa
Sunday 30 August 2026 18:12 , Harry Latham-CoyleAfter six years at Villa Park, Ollie Watkins is bound for Saudi Arabia as he gets his move to Al-Hilal.
Aston Villa can confirm that Ollie Watkins has completed a permanent transfer to Al Hilal.
— Aston Villa (@AstonVilla) August 30, 2026
Signed by Dean Smith in 2020, Watkins hit double figures in every one of his six seasons at Villa Park and departs as our record Premier League goalscorer with a total of 91.
He was also… pic.twitter.com/VmFKQDMmYJ
Aston Villa ready to add Southampton defender for £30m
Sunday 30 August 2026 18:00 , Jack RathbornAston Villa continue to reshuffle the deck, it would seem, with a new centre-back a pressing need after Ezri Konsa’s move to Arsenal.
After £50m coming in for the England international, £30m could be going back out for Southampton’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis.
The Athletic reports that a deal is agreed and the 24-year-old could leave Saints before Tuesday’s deadline.
Porto to sign Brazilian wonderkid
Sunday 30 August 2026 17:30 , Jack RathbornPorto have struck a deal for one of Brazil’s finest young talents Gabriel Mec, according to widespread reports, including Fabrizio Romano and ESPN Brasil.
The 18-year-old attacker will cost the Portuguese giants €10m (£8.6m) in his inevitable move to Europe after impressing back home with two goals in Serie A already.
Boreham Wood star set for record move to Swedish giants
Sunday 30 August 2026 17:10 , Jack RathbornBoreham Wood are set to sell Abdul Abdulmalik for a National League record £1.5m to Swedish club Djurgardens, reports the BBC’s Nizaar Kinsella.
The 23-year-old winger’s move tops the fee paid in the fifth-tier in 2012 by Leicester City to Fleetwood Town Jamie Vardy at £1m.
The forward scored 17 goals and provided 10 assists last term, which prompted rejected bids worth £1m and £1.5m for the former Millwall academy player.
Abdulmalik said: "I'm ready for the next challenge. I'm ready to prove to myself and those around me that I'm capable of reaching the top."
What next for Enzo Fernandez? Chelsea's wantaway star left out by Xabi Alonso again
Sunday 30 August 2026 16:50 , Jack RathbornEnzo Fernandez missed the Chelsea game against Brighton with Xabi Alonso omitting him from the squad again.
“We need the squad to be 100 per cent focused”, Xabi Alonso told Sky Sports.
Man City appear to be playing the waiting game, perhaps teasing Chelsea into backing down from their £120m valuation should they face a scenario where they have to reintegrate an unhappy player.
Julian Alvarez returns to Atletico Madrid training amid Arsenal and Barcelona interest
Sunday 30 August 2026 16:30 , Jack RathbornJulian Alvarez has returned to Atletico Madrid training today.
The Argentina is back to work with the La Liga giants amid speculation over his future and interest from Arsenal and Barcelona.
Atleti have refused to do business with Barcelona and so far the player is against a move to to London.
But rejoining the group is perhaps an indication that Alvarez, after a couple of days missing through illness, could be open to staying at the Metropolitano.
Liverpool still targeting second new winger after Barcola?
Sunday 30 August 2026 16:10 , Jack RathbornLiverpool are still in the hunt to sign Ismaila Sarr, reports Sacha Tavolieri.
Al-Ittihad, who previously held an interest in the Senegalese winger, are out of the running.
With Bradley Barcola coming in, Sarr could be the replacement to allow Cody Gakpo’s departure.
Forest want Liverpool goalkeeper
Sunday 30 August 2026 15:50 , Jack RathbornNottingham Forest are pursuing Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, reports Marca.
Mamardashvili remains behind Alisson Becker at Anfield and could now move on to secure the No 1 jersey at another club.
Matz Sels started against the Reds at Anfield on Saturday but more competition in the position appears a priority before Tuesday’s deadline.
Arsenal's Martinelli set to secure Al Hilal deal?
Sunday 30 August 2026 15:30 , Jack RathbornGabriel Martinelli to Al Hilal is a done deal, reports Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg.
Al Hilal and Arsenal will do business at €65m (£55.7m).
A medical and long-term deal are the next steps.
Jamie Carragher backs Cody Gakpo sale at the right price
Sunday 30 August 2026 15:10 , Jack RathbornJamie Carragher has backed Liverpool to sell Cody Gakpo to Man City at £80-85m.
City have shown interest in the Dutch international, while the Reds are close to signing Bradley Barcola for £123m.
And Carragher believes Gakpo’s role would be diminished enough with Barcola on board that a sale now makes sense.
“The money talked about for Gakpo £80/85M we should sell. With Barcola arriving he will be a squad player,” Carragher said on social media.
“We need to use that money for a right winger & give the squad a better balance.”
Leao heads to Galatasaray
Sunday 30 August 2026 14:50 , Alan SmithRafael Leao had been linked with a number of Premier League clubs earlier this summer but the Portugal winger has instead left Milan for Galatasaray in a deal worth €38m.
He has signed a four-year contract with the Istanbul club.
💊 Yeni transferimiz Rafael Leão, sponsorumuz @AcibademSaglik Maslak Hastanesi’nde sağlık kontrolünden geçti! ✅ pic.twitter.com/OsUN55iqhs
— Galatasaray SK (@GalatasaraySK) August 30, 2026
Coventry confirm 11th signing of summer
Sunday 30 August 2026 14:30 , Alan SmithCoventry City have made teenage defender Stephen Mfuni their 11th signing of the summer with the 18-year-old joining from Manchester City on a season-long loan.
Mfuni spent a portion of last season on loan at Watford.
Everton eye Balogun
Sunday 30 August 2026 14:15 , Alan SmithFolarin Balogun has been linked with a move to Everton, according to ESPN, but it is dependent upon the Toffees being able to offload several fringe players to fund a move.
The former Arsenal striker, who became the inadvertent centre of controversy at the World Cup, currently plays for Monaco.
2pm games underway
Sunday 30 August 2026 14:00 , Alan SmithThere are three games underway in the Premier League - including Leeds hosting Brentford and Fulham’s visit to Sunderland.
And you can follow all the action from Stamford Bridge as Chelsea meet Brighton at the link below.
Chelsea vs Brighton LIVE: Team news and latest updates from Premier League
Barcelona to sign Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus
Sunday 30 August 2026 13:55 , Jack RathbornBarcelona are closing in on a deal to sign Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus, reports Fabrizio Romano.
A medical has been booked for the Brazilian, who is out of favour under Mikel Arteta and behind Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz.
A €10m package plus add-ons for a permanent deal has now been agreed.
Fernandez absent again
Sunday 30 August 2026 13:45 , Alan SmithXabi Alonso has said Chelsea “need a team that is focused” while explaining why Enzo Fernandez is not involved against Brighton today. The Argentina midfielder continues to be linked with a switch to Manchester City before the window closes on Tuesday.
Alonso told Sky: "We assess what's best for the team and considering everything, the situation, we need a team that is focused, with everyone involved that's fully committed and engaged with the game."
John Terry explains why he allowed Emi Martinez to take Chelsea's No 26 shirt
Sunday 30 August 2026 13:25 , Jack Rathborn"I spoke to him, he's taken the 26 shirt, he's been given the green light,” John Terry said.
“Because he loves keeping clean sheets as much as I did when I wore the 26 shirt.
“Hopefully that serves him well, what a keeper, what a player and I'm delighted to have him in the building."
Virgil van Dijk takes swipe at ‘bitter’ Liverpool critics over transfer business
Sunday 30 August 2026 13:10 , Richard JollyVirgil van Dijk has declared that anyone who doubts Liverpool can attract top-quality players must be bitter as he said he would welcome Bradley Barcola to Anfield.
Liverpool have agreed a fee of £106m, which could rise to £123m, with Paris Saint-Germain for the France winger and Van Dijk said he thinks the 23-year-old is a “very good player”.
But he also urged Liverpool to keep Cody Gakpo, who has attracted interest from Tottenham and Manchester City.
Virgil van Dijk takes swipe at ‘bitter’ Liverpool critics over transfer business
Hull City move for Roma forward on hold?
Sunday 30 August 2026 12:50 , Jack RathbornHull City may have to be patient to acquire Robinio Vaz, who is the subject of talks between Roma and the Tigers, according to The Athletic.
A season-long loan for a fee of €2m, with a €30m option to buy, has been negotiated.
But La Repubblica reports that the Serie A club would push for a replacement before sanctioning the player’s exit.
West Ham in talks over £18m deal for Viking winger
Sunday 30 August 2026 12:35 , Jack RathbornWest Ham are in talks to sign Viking winger Edvin Austbo, as per The Athletic.
The 21-year-old has scored 15 goals across 71 appearances and a deal in the region of £18m is being discussed.
Austbo has also graduated through the age groups to represent Norway.
Fulham target Roma winger
Sunday 30 August 2026 12:20 , Jack RathbornFulham are in talks to sign Matias Soule from Roma, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The 23-year-old Argentine midfielder could bolster Alvaro Arbeloa's squad after a two-year spell in the Eternal City.
With 11 goals across two seasons for Roma, the Whites should have a new option down the right.
Everton keep £40m-rated teenager after ‘riot’ threat and eye Jack Grealish return
Sunday 30 August 2026 12:05 , Richard JollyHarrison Armstrong is staying at Everton after the club called off his possible transfer to Nottingham Forest amid a backlash from supporters, while Jack Grealish is set to return to the club.
Forest were interested in a £40m move for Armstrong, with the midfielder the subject of chants from Everton fans at their 1-1 draw with Bournemouth.
Evertonians warned there would be a “riot on their hands” if they sold the midfielder.
Everton keep £40m-rated teenager after ‘riot’ threat and eye Jack Grealish return
Unai Emery hopes new-look Aston Villa squad can hit the ground running
Sunday 30 August 2026 11:45 , Harry Latham-CoyleAston Villa boss Unai Emery says his overhauled squad have to hit the ground running.
Villa’s Europa League winning team has been ripped apart this summer as Ezri Konsa, Morgan Rogers, Emiliano Martinez, Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne have all left, with Ollie Watkins also on the way.
Nicolas Jackson, Leon Goretzka, Johan Manzambi and Alejandro Garnacho are among those who have arrived and Emery needs his new men to bed in quickly.
They lost last weekend’s Premier League opener 4-0 at Brighton and things do not get any easier as Villa host champions Arsenal at Villa Park on Monday.
“In football, if you are expecting transition, maybe you are not in the right way,” Emery said.
“We must compete, we must win. We have to rebuild the team as fast as possible; we have to accept our way, our decisions, and why we are taking some decisions, but I am positive, and we are working.
“At the same time, rebuilding the team with the players, they can understand how we want to play, and trying to give some necessary time for some players to adapt to us.”
Man City target Cody Gakpo but one hurdle remains for Liverpool to sanction sale
Sunday 30 August 2026 11:30 , Richard JollyManchester City have made contact with Liverpool about Cody Gakpo as they try to sign the forward before the end of the transfer window.
But Liverpool are unsure whether they can allow Gakpo to go as they consider whether City’s late move would give them time to bring in further signings.
City are looking for replacements for Savio and Omar Marmoush, who have both joined Tottenham, for an initial £75m and a loan that will become a £60m purchase respectively.
Man City target Cody Gakpo but one hurdle remains for Liverpool to sanction sale
Tottenham and Everton agree swap deal?
Sunday 30 August 2026 11:15 , Jack RathbornTottenham and Everton have moved close to a swap deal, reports The Athletic’s David Ornstein.
The report details an agreement in principle has been struck for Iliman Ndiaye to move to Tottenham, while Richarlison will move in the opposite direction for a second spell with the Toffees.
Personal terms and medicals still need to be sorted, but Spurs appear set to sign another attacking player.
After being linked with Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo, it now looks to be Ndiaye who will join Omar Marmoush and Savio as new forwards for Roberto De Zerbi.
Juventus and Tottenham thrash out terms over Sarr
Sunday 30 August 2026 11:00 , Jack RathbornJuventus and Tottenham are looking to agree on a loan move with a buy clause for midfielder Pape Matar Sarr.
Sarr is keen to link up with Juventus with Roberto De Zerbi ravamping the Spurs midfield and not including Sarr in his plans.
And Fabrizio Romano details Sarr’s move to Turin is now gathering pace.
Armstrong to stay at Everton?
Sunday 30 August 2026 10:45 , Jack RathbornHarrison Armstrong to Nottingham Forest looks to be off, reports the Telegraph.
Everton had accepted a £35m bid with Harrison given the green light to travel for a medical.
But with fans irate at the move and the prospect of losing a rare talent, the Toffees have backed out of the deal according to John Percy’s report.
Unai Emery reveals Ollie Watkins apology – but confirms tearful Aston Villa departure
Sunday 30 August 2026 10:30 , Jack RathbornUnai Emery admitted he shed a tear as he received an apology from Ollie Watkins ahead of the Aston Villa striker’s move to Saudi Arabia.
Watkins is set to join Al Hilal in a £50m deal, with Emery’s side agreeing to sign Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea as his replacement.
The England international missed Aston Villa’s 4-0 defeat to Brighton on the opening weekend of the Premier League season.
Emery was left seething by Watkins’ absence and said he could “only answer by silence”, but revealed an emotional farewell on Thursday.
“I can tell you now Watkins’ commitment and behaviour was fantastic always,” Emery said on Friday.
“Last week, we didn’t get a deal to finish playing the match against Brighton but he told us after the match that he was sorry and he told us he made a mistake and was wrong.
“We accepted it and the players did as well because he always had very good behaviour with me. For me, he’s a fantastic guy, even more so than as a player.
“I told him ‘bye’ with a huge hug and a small cry. But all the best with him in Saudi and with Nicolas Jackson replacing him.”
Burnley interested in Ryan Giles
Sunday 30 August 2026 10:20 , Jack RathbornBurnley are looking to sign Hull City left-back Ryan Giles on loan, according to Football Insider.
A clause could be included in the deal to make his arrival permanent next summer.
Giles was key to Hull’s promotion last season and is a fan favourite at the MKM Stadium.
Arsenal reignite interest in Endrick
Sunday 30 August 2026 10:10 , Jack RathbornArsenal have reportedly reignited their interest in Real Madrid forward Endrick.
The Brazilian striker is said to be concerned with having fallen doing the pecking order at the Bernabeu and talkSPORT say Arsenal have held talks over a potential signing.
More movement at Aston Villa? Ibrahim Mbaye fee 'agreed'
Sunday 30 August 2026 10:00 , Jack RathbornAston Villa’s busy summer looks set to continue: David Ornstein of The Athletic reports that Unai Emery’s side have reached an “agreement in principle” to sign 18-year-old winger Ibrahim Mbaye from Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain.
Mbaye was linked to Liverpool earlier in the window and has been left out of PSG’s squad for the last three games, along with the outgoing Bradley Barcola. The Athletic report that Villa have reached a €55m (£47m) for the forward.
Meanwhile, Villa target Rafael Leao is set to join Galatasaray from AC Milan. Sky Sports report that Leao has accepted the move after Villa did not match Galatasaray’s offer on wages.
Villa have signed Nicolas Jackson after the departures of Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers, and have signed Johan Manzambi too.
Chelsea sign Martinez and could hand goalkeeper immediate debut
Sunday 30 August 2026 09:50 , Jack RathbornChelsea have completed the signing of Emiliano Martinez.
The Argentine goalkeeper is thought to be available for Sunday’s game against Brighton at Stamford Bridge.
A two-year contract, with the option of a further 12 months has been signed between the World Cup winner and the club.
It brings an end to Robert Sanchez’s error-prone time as the Blues’ No 1.
Fearless. pic.twitter.com/fwmjGNVs7S
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 30, 2026
Man City hold interest in Enzo Fernandez with Chelsea prepared to sell midfielder
Sunday 30 August 2026 09:40 , Jack RathbornXabi Alonso said he wants players that “feel a desire to play” for Chelsea after Enzo Fernandez was left out of the squad for Thursday’s win over Luton.
Chelsea are open to Fernandez leaving before the transfer deadline, but Manchester City would need to pay more than the £120m asking price the Blues set earlier in the window.
Alonso has dismissed reports in Argentina that Fernandez asked not to be involved in the game against Luton and speaking ahead of Sunday’s Premier League game at home to Brighton, Alonso said: “We need the players that are in the best situation to play.
“We need to take everything into consideration, players that are in good moments, players that are not feeling that energy to play. For me it’s very important that they feel that desire to play and to have good preparation.
“We talked, and we decided that (for Luton) it was better not to be part of the squad. He’s a top player, there’s no doubt about that.”
Liverpool agree fee for PSG's Bradley Barcola as Reds prepare medical for winger
Sunday 30 August 2026 09:30 , Jack RathbornBradley Barcola is set to join Liverpool after they reached a final agreement with Paris Saint-Germain for his big-money transfer.
Liverpool will pay an initial £106m for the France winger, which could rise to £123m, including add-ons, and he is expected to sign a five-year deal at Anfield.
They had reached an outline agreement with Paris Saint-Germain earlier this week after a breakthrough in negotiations.
Bradley Barcola set for big-money move to Liverpool as deal agreed
Julian Alvarez misses training again before Atletico Madrid's deadline for offers
Sunday 30 August 2026 09:21 , Jack RathbornAtletico Madrid have given Arsenal target Julian Alvarez a deadline of Sunday to decide his future, with his options either to consider a move to the Premier League champions or stay at the club.
Atletico’s chief executive said the Argentina star will “never, ever” be sold to Barcelona, his preferred choice, with Alvarez now considering his options.
The 26-year-old will not feature in the squad to play Sevilla this weekend after missing three consecutive days of training, with boss Diego Simeone confirming his absence.

