Transfer news LIVE: Vinicius Jr hands Arsenal boost with new decision, Liverpool get £140m Barcola green light

FootballSports
29 Jul 2026 • 1:29 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Transfer news LIVE: Vinicius Jr hands Arsenal boost with new decision, Liverpool get £140m Barcola green light

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 Real Madrid may yet offer the Brazilian fresh terms though Vini Jr is reportedly skipping training due to the standoff over a new deal.

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 – though the latter appears bound for Italy. 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 believe a £140m asking price is fair though negotiations will take place to try and lower that fee for Liverpool.

Chelsea appear set to strike a surprise double deal for England veterans Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson as Xabi Alonso seeks to add experience to his squad. The Brighton striker, 35, and Brentford midfielder, 36, could continue an intriguing summer of incomings at Stamford Bridge after the marquee addition of Morgan Rogers earlier in the window.

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.

Follow the latest transfer news, rumours and reports with our live blog below

Read More

The Chelsea pensioners: Why Xabi Alonso has suddenly shifted transfer strategy to sign older players

Arsenal eyeing shock deal for Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr

Xabi Alonso explains how Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer can shine together at Chelsea: ‘I have a plan’

Transfer news LIVE

  • Chelsea line up shock double deal for Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck
  • Veteran England internationals could add experience to Xabi Alonso's squad
  • Arsenal continue pursuit of Vinicius Jr and ready huge offer to Brazilian
  • Vinicius Jr decision gives boost to Arsenal rumours
  • Man City braced for Rodri offer from Real Madrid
  • Liverpool told hefty Bradley Barcola price as PSG make demand clear

Arsenal 'prepared' to break British transfer record to sign Julian Alvarez

07:04 , Flo Clifford

Arsenal are prepared to break the British transfer record to sign Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid, according to Teamtalk.

The Independent first reported on Arsenal’s interest in Julian Alvarez in April and a three-way battle between the Gunners, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona was expected this summer. Barcelona’s approach for Alvarez angered Atletico and they have reportedly set their LaLiga rivals a deadline of July 31 to accept their offer, which will need to be around €150m.

Having missed out on Morgan Rogers, Arsenal would arguably have more resources available should Barcelona fail to land their priority target and Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is prepared to take a patient approach for the former Manchester City forward and Argentina international. Alvarez’s preference would be Barcelona, and it would take a record bid from Arsenal to get the deal over the line.

Why do Arsenal want to sign Vinicius Jr?

06:04 , Flo Clifford

Arsenal want to land a major signing to improve their attack this summer and Mikel Arteta has been on the hunt for a superstar left winger for years.

On his day, Vinicius Jr is the best left winger in the world and the 26-year-old only has one year left on his Real Madrid contract.

If there would be a time to move for him, it would be now, given that the Spanish side would not want to lose him on a free next summer.

Vinicius would instantly add firepower to Arsenal. He scored 22 goals last season for Real Madrid but talks over a new deal have stalled.

Eddie Howe offers update on future of Bruno Guimaraes

05:04 , Flo Clifford

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has admitted he “does not know” if captain Bruno Guimaraes will remain at the club next season but insisted he wants his best players to stay.

Arsenal are prepared to step up their pursuit of Guimaraes but have been told that a fee of £100m will be needed to sign the Brazil international midfielder.

The BBC report that Arsenal are preparing to test their resolve with a £70m offer for Guimaraes, who is said to be keen on a move to London.

Newcastle believe the fee Tottenham paid for Sandro Tonali should set the benchmark for any interest in their captain, yet the Gunners are still said to be poised to “accelerate” their interest, according to the Telegraph.

And Howe told Sky Sports: "We've had some really good conversations, before the World Cup, during the World Cup and after the World Cup. What we speak about obviously has to remain private, but just a great player, a great person.

“I don't know what's going to happen with Bruno's future. That's for other people to speculate about, but also conversations that I'm not part of.”

Huge fee set for Bradley Barcola

04:03 , Flo Clifford

Widespread reports suggest that Paris Saint-Germain are open to selling Bradley Barcola – but only for a fee of around £145m or more. Pricey!

The Times suggest that Arsenal and Liverpool both have interest, though may be unwilling to pay the terms PSG desire with the French capital club using the Morgan Rogers and Elliot Anderson deals as a benchmark.

 (Getty)

Inter Milan join race for Tottenham captain Cristian Romero

03:03 , Flo Clifford

Cristian Romero is expected to leave Tottenham this summer and Inter Milan want to sign the Argentina defender.

Spurs would be willing to let Romero leave if they receive the right offer, according to Sky Sports, following a tumultuous season.

Inter’s sporting director Piero Ausilo has confirmed the Italian club’s interest in the player, who previously played in Serie A with Alatanta.

"It's definitely a deal we are trying to sign with the player and the club [Tottenham],” Ausilo said. “These things take some time but there's definitely interest. Let's see."

Chelsea set to sign Maxence Lacroix as medical planned before £52m move

02:02 , Flo Clifford

Maxence Lacroix will have a medical at Chelsea before a £52m move to leave Crystal Palace, but what could the France international bring to Stamford Bridge?

The 26-year-old centre-back is set to sign a six-year deal to boost the Blues’ defence. Lacroix played in a back three under Oliver Glasner at Crystal Palace, a system previously favoured by Xabi Alonso, but the right-footed defender is also versatile and can play in a back four.

He brings authority to defence as well as excellent recovery pace, and his arrival at Chelsea could lead to the departures of Trvevoh Chalobah and Axel Disasi.

Juventus boss claims Emiliano Martinez 'wants to leave Aston Villa'

01:02 , Flo Clifford

Emiliano Martinez wants to leave Aston Villa this summer, Juventus boss Luciano Spaletti has claimed.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Spaletti said: “He's a goalkeeper who wants to change clubs, and we're looking for competitiveness. But we currently have two [keepers]."

Juventus have placed Argentina and Aston Villa goalkeeper Martinez at the top of their summer wish list, but Villa director of football operations Damian Vidagany revealed earlier this month that Martinez would not be sold.

Aston Villa have already sold key players Morgan Rogers and Youri Tielemans this summer.

Chelsea make surprise move for Brighton striker Danny Welbeck

Wednesday 29 July 2026 00:02 , Flo Clifford

Chelsea are in talks to sign veteran striker Danny Welbeck from Brighton, according to Press Association sources.

The 35-year-old has emerged as a surprising target to reinforce the Blues’ attacking options, following an impressive season where he netted 13 Premier League goals in 37 appearances.

Joe Gomez injury takes shine off Liverpool’s first win under Andoni Iraola

Tuesday 28 July 2026 23:30 , Flo Clifford

Andoni Iraola said the injury to Joe Gomez was the “worst news” after he began his Liverpool reign with a 4-2 win over Sunderland in Nashville.

Gomez, 29, was forced off within 10 minutes of Liverpool’s first friendly of pre-season after appearing to suffer a muscle issue.

Gomez, who is Liverpool’s longest-serving player, has struggled with injuries throughout his time at Anfield.

The Chelsea pensioners: Why Xabi Alonso has suddenly shifted transfer strategy to sign older players

Tuesday 28 July 2026 22:30 , Lawrence Ostlere

The surprising pursuit of several players in their 30s this summer shows Chelsea have learnt lessons from a calamitous season dogged by inexperienced and ill-discipline – but will it fix the problem?

Image from: Transfer news LIVE: Vinicius Jr hands Arsenal boost with new decision, Liverpool get £140m Barcola green light

Why Chelsea suddenly want players in their thirties

Italy turn to Premier League winners to solve managerial crisis

Tuesday 28 July 2026 21:21 , Flo Clifford

Having been knocked back by Pep Guardiola, and forced to move on from Andrea Pirlo after a backlash, Italy finally have a new manager. And an old one, too, with Roberto Mancini returning for another stint in charge. He’ll be joined by Claudio Ranieri as two Premier League winners unite – Ranieri replaces Paolo Maldini, who stepped down over the Pirlo decision, as technical director.

Image from: Transfer news LIVE: Vinicius Jr hands Arsenal boost with new decision, Liverpool get £140m Barcola green light

Italy turn to Premier League winners to solve managerial crisis

Top 10 transfer deals so far this summer

Tuesday 28 July 2026 20:30 , Flo Clifford

1. Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa to Chelsea) - £117m

2. Elliot Anderson (Nott’m Forest to Man City) - £116m

3. Sandro Tonali (Newcastle to Tottenham) - £100m

4. Matheus Fernandes (West Ham to Tottenham) - £84m

5. Jeremy Jacquet (Stade Rennais to Liverpool) - £53.7m

6. Johan Manzambi (Freiburg to Aston Villa) - £51m

7. Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton to Tottenham) - £51m

8. Marco Palestra (Atalanta to Chelsea) - £48.6m

9. Andrey Santos (Chelsea to Man Utd) - £48m

10. Luka Vuskovic (Tottenham to Brighton) - £46m

James Maddison outlines Roberto De Zerbi’s ‘very clear’ message to Tottenham squad ahead of new season

Tuesday 28 July 2026 19:16 , Flo Clifford

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder James Maddison has voiced his enthusiasm for working under new manager Roberto De Zerbi, and is confident that the Italian's attacking philosophy will perfectly align with his playing style as the club prepares for the new Premier League campaign.

Image from: Transfer news LIVE: Vinicius Jr hands Arsenal boost with new decision, Liverpool get £140m Barcola green light

James Maddison outlines Roberto De Zerbi’s ‘very clear’ message to Tottenham squad

Leeds close in on James Trafford

Tuesday 28 July 2026 17:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

James Trafford’s search for a new club could soon be over with Leeds set to announce his signing. The goalkeeper’s return to Manchester City lasted just one season, and a fee of £40m has been mooted by The Athletic.

James Trafford looks set to leave Manchester City...again (PA Wire)

Top Premier League outgoings so far

Tuesday 28 July 2026 17:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

1. Anthony Gordon (Newcastle to Barcelona) - £68m

2. Marc Cucurella (Chelsea to Real Madrid) - £50m

3. Rasmus Hoijlund (Man Utd to Napoli) - £37.5m

4. Donyell Malen (Aston Villa to Roma) - £21m

5. Eliezer Mayenda (Sunderland to Stade Rennais) - £18.8m

6. Leandro Trossard (Arsenal to Besiktas) - £15.3m

7. Jakub Kiwior (Arsenal to Porto) - £14.5m

8. Manuel Akanji (Man City to Inter) - £12.8m

9. Enzo Barrenechea (Aston Villa to Benfica) - £10.2m

10. Will Lankshear (Tottenham to Middlesbrough) - £9m

Anthony Gordon has joined Barcelona (PA Wire)

Mohamed Salah's move to Besiktas breaks down

Tuesday 28 July 2026 16:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle

On the hunt for a new club is Mohamed Salah – though it appears Besiktas won’t be his next employers. Media in Turkey report that club director Onder Ozen has paused negotiations having been unhappy over the demands of Salah’s agent.

Mohamed Salah is searching for a new club (Getty)

Barcelona in for Junior Kroupi

Tuesday 28 July 2026 16:20 , Will Castle

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.

Eli Junior Kroupi of Bournemouth enjoyed a standout season (Getty)

John Stones in talks with Inter Milan

Tuesday 28 July 2026 16:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

John Stones is available on a free after reaching the end of his Manchester City contract, and the Telegraphbelieve Inter Milan may be his next club. Arsenal had been keen on the experienced centre-half after William Saliba’s injury.

John Stones could soon have a new club (Reuters)

Italy turn to Premier League winners to solve managerial crisis

Tuesday 28 July 2026 15:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Having been knocked back by Pep Guardiola, and forced to move on from Andrea Pirlo after a backlash, Italy finally have a new manager. And an old one, too, with Roberto Mancini returning for another stint in charge. He’ll be joined by Claudio Ranieri as two Premier League winners unite – Ranieri replaces Paolo Maldini, who stepped down over the Pirlo decision, as technical director.

Micky van de Ven excited by Tottenham’s summer spending spree as he makes promise to fans

Tuesday 28 July 2026 15:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven believes the club is demonstrating "new ambition" following a substantial £237m summer spending spree, and has promised a more entertaining brand of football under Roberto De Zerbi next season.

The significant investment comes after a turbulent period for Spurs, which saw them narrowly avoid relegation on the final day of the 2025-26 Premier League campaign.

Majority owners the Lewis family subsequently pledged to be "all in" for a necessary rebuild, leading to six new arrivals. The club has twice broken its transfer record, first for £85m midfielder Mateus Fernandes, then securing Sandro Tonali from Newcastle in a £100m deal.

Image from: Transfer news LIVE: Vinicius Jr hands Arsenal boost with new decision, Liverpool get £140m Barcola green light

Micky van de Ven excited by Tottenham’s summer spending spree

Inter Milan interested in Cristian Romero

Tuesday 28 July 2026 15:10 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Cristian Romero is expected to leave Tottenham this summer and Inter Milan want to sign the Argentina defender.

Spurs would be willing to let Romero leave if they receive the right offer, according to Sky Sports, following a tumultuous season.

Inter’s sporting director Piero Ausilo has confirmed the Italian club’s interest in the player, who previously played in Serie A with Alatanta.

"It's definitely a deal we are trying to sign with the player and the club [Tottenham],” Ausilo said. “These things take some time but there's definitely interest. Let's see."

Cristian Romero could leave Spurs (Getty)

Arsenal 'prepared' to break British transfer record to sign Julian Alvarez

Tuesday 28 July 2026 14:55 , Mike Jones

Arsenal are prepared to break the British transfer record to sign Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid, according to Teamtalk.

The Independent first reported on Arsenal’s interest in Julian Alvarez in April and a three-way battle between the Gunners, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona was expected this summer. Barcelona’s approach for Alvarez angered Atletico and they have reportedly set their LaLiga rivals a deadline of July 31 to accept their offer, which will need to be around €150m.

Having missed out on Morgan Rogers, Arsenal would arguably have more resources available should Barcelona fail to land their priority target and Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is prepared to take a patient approach for the former Manchester City forward and Argentina international. Alvarez’s preference would be Barcelona, and it would take a record bid from Arsenal to get the deal over the line.

 (Getty)

Premier League trio eye Sevilla winger

Tuesday 28 July 2026 14:35 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Could Ruben Vargas, who scored a winning penalty for Switzerland against Colombia at the World Cup, be on his way to the Premier League? Mundo Deportivo in Spain suggest the Sevilla winger could be available for around £17m, which has pricked the ears up at Aston Villa, Brighton and Newcastle.

Ruben Vargas is being targeted by Premier League clubs (Reuters)

The Chelsea pensioners: Why Xabi Alonso has suddenly shifted transfer strategy to sign older players

Tuesday 28 July 2026 14:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Chelsea’s links with Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson feel a significant shift in strategy. Lawrence Ostlere explains why it has happened – and why it might make sense:

Why Chelsea suddenly want players in their thirties

ICYMI: Chelsea make surprise move for Brighton striker Danny Welbeck

Tuesday 28 July 2026 14:05 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Chelsea are in shock talks to sign veteran striker Danny Welbeck from Brighton.

The 35-year-old has emerged as a surprising target to reinforce the Blues’ attacking options, following an impressive season where he netted 13 Premier League goals in 37 appearances.

Image from: Transfer news LIVE: Vinicius Jr hands Arsenal boost with new decision, Liverpool get £140m Barcola green light

Chelsea make surprise move for Brighton striker Danny Welbeck

DONE DEAL! Ipswich sign Dutch shot-stopper

Tuesday 28 July 2026 13:45 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Ipswich have completed a deal for goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen, who joins from Union Saint-Gilloise and says...

“This is a very proud moment for me.

“This is a great opportunity for me to show my qualities and test myself in the best league in the world, so I’m really looking forward to making memories together.

“I’ve had great conversations and everything here has been really positive, so it’s made me very excited to join Ipswich Town.

“I’m looking forward to meeting my teammates and can’t wait to meet the fans and get started.”

Josko Gvardiol signs new Manchester City deal as defensive rebuild begins

Tuesday 28 July 2026 13:25 , Richard Jolly

Josko Gvardiol has become the second Manchester City defender to commit his future to the club this week by signing a new deal.

The Croatia international has put pen to paper on a five-year contract, with an option for a sixth season.

Gvardiol follows Abdukodir Khusanov, who also agreed a contract extension, as City's defence for the future takes shape after the departures of John Stones and Nathan Ake.

Image from: Transfer news LIVE: Vinicius Jr hands Arsenal boost with new decision, Liverpool get £140m Barcola green light

Key defender signs new Manchester City deal as squad rebuild begins

Rodri undergoes back surgery

Tuesday 28 July 2026 13:05 , PA

Manchester City have confirmed World Cup-winning midfielder Rodri has undergone successful back surgery.

It is not yet clear how long the Spain international will be sidelined but the club say he will now “begin a short period of rehabilitation”.

The 30-year-old had been troubled by a back issue for some time, prompting what City have described as a “minor” procedure.

It is another setback for the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, who has endured a series of fitness problems since suffering a serious knee injury almost two years ago.

A club statement read: “Manchester City can confirm Rodri has undergone successful minor back surgery.

“The midfielder had been feeling discomfort for some time but has now undergone a procedure to address the issue and will now begin a short period of rehabilitation.”

The update comes as speculation continues over Rodri’s future. The former Atletico Madrid player, who has one year remaining on his contract at the Etihad Stadium, has been linked with a move to Real Madrid.

Rodri has undergone back surgery (PA Wire)

Vinicius Jr decision gives boost to Arsenal rumours

Tuesday 28 July 2026 12:45 , Mike Jones

Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr will not be training with the club this week as rumours abound over a possible move to Arsenal.

The winger is entering the final 12 months of his contract with Los Blancos and negotiations over a new deal are at a standoff.

The Standard say that Arsenal are yet to make a formal approach for the Brazilian but are admirers of his and are monitoring the situation between the player and Real.

Previous reports claimed that the Gunners are prepared to offer a huge contract to Vini Jr though Real are thought to want to keep the player with a new long term deal.

 (Getty)

Crystal Palace set to secure centre-half replacement

Tuesday 28 July 2026 12:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle

With Maxence Lacroix bound for Chelsea, Crystal Palace have moved swiftly to secure centre-half cover. 19-year-old defender Raphael Le Guen is edging closer to completing his move from Brest, according to L’Equipe, having agreed personal terms.

Nottingham Forest back in for Liam Delap

Tuesday 28 July 2026 12:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Nottingham Forest are reported by The Telegraph to be interested in Liam Delap. Attempts to sign the striker last summer were quickly ended as Chelsea swooped, but the paper believes that Oliver Glasner may target the young English forward as he seeks to improve his squad after taking the role at the City Ground.

Liam Delap is facing an uncertain future at Chelsea (Getty)

What Manchester United’s midfield makeover reveals about their transfer strategy under Michael Carrick

Tuesday 28 July 2026 11:55 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Manchester United remain on the hunt for at least one more midfielder this summer, but their transfer strategy has felt distinct to others. Richard Jolly explains why – and what it says about Michael Carrick’s management.

Image from: Transfer news LIVE: Vinicius Jr hands Arsenal boost with new decision, Liverpool get £140m Barcola green light

What Man United’s midfield makeover reveals about transfer strategy under Carrick

Top 10 transfer deals so far this summer

Tuesday 28 July 2026 11:35 , Harry Latham-Coyle

1. Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa to Chelsea) - £117m

2. Elliot Anderson (Nott’m Forest to Man City) - £116m

3. Sandro Tonali (Newcastle to Tottenham) - £100m

4. Matheus Fernandes (West Ham to Tottenham) - £84m

5. Jeremy Jacquet (Stade Rennais to Liverpool) - £53.7m

6. Johan Manzambi (Freiburg to Aston Villa) - £51m

7. Jan Paul van Hecke (Brighton to Tottenham) - £51m

8. Marco Palestra (Atalanta to Chelsea) - £48.6m

9. Andrey Santos (Chelsea to Man Utd) - £48m

10. Luka Vuskovic (Tottenham to Brighton) - £46m

Morgan Rogers has joined Chelsea (Getty)

Could Emiliano Martinez leave Aston Villa?

Tuesday 28 July 2026 11:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Emiliano Martinez wants to leave Aston Villa this summer, Juventus boss Luciano Spaletti has claimed.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Spaletti said: “He's a goalkeeper who wants to change clubs, and we're looking for competitiveness. But we currently have two [keepers]."

Juventus have placed Argentina and Aston Villa goalkeeper Martinez at the top of their summer wish list, but Villa director of football operations Damian Vidagany revealed earlier this month that Martinez would not be sold.

Aston Villa have already sold key players Morgan Rogers and Youri Tielemans this summer.

Emiliano Martinez could be on the move (Getty)

Micky van de Ven excited by Tottenham’s summer spending spree as he makes promise to fans

Tuesday 28 July 2026 11:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven believes the club is demonstrating "new ambition" following a substantial £237m summer spending spree, and has promised a more entertaining brand of football under Roberto De Zerbi next season.

The significant investment comes after a turbulent period for Spurs, which saw them narrowly avoid relegation on the final day of the 2025-26 Premier League campaign.

Majority owners the Lewis family subsequently pledged to be "all in" for a necessary rebuild, leading to six new arrivals. The club has twice broken its transfer record, first for £85m midfielder Mateus Fernandes, then securing Sandro Tonali from Newcastle in a £100m deal.

Micky van de Ven excited by Tottenham’s summer spending spree

Newcastle uncertain over Bruno Guimaraes future

Tuesday 28 July 2026 10:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has admitted he “does not know” if captain Bruno Guimaraes will remain at the club next season but insisted he wants his best players to stay.

Arsenal are prepared to step up their pursuit of Guimaraes but have been told that a fee of £100m will be needed to sign the Brazil international midfielder.

The BBC report that Arsenal are preparing to test their resolve with a £70m offer for Guimaraes, who is said to be keen on a move to London.

Newcastle believe the fee Tottenham paid for Sandro Tonali should set the benchmark for any interest in their captain, yet the Gunners are still said to be poised to “accelerate” their interest, according to the Telegraph.

And Howe told Sky Sports: "We've had some really good conversations, before the World Cup, during the World Cup and after the World Cup. What we speak about obviously has to remain private, but just a great player, a great person.

“I don't know what's going to happen with Bruno's future. That's for other people to speculate about, but also conversations that I'm not part of.”

Eddie Howe is unsure if he can keep Bruno Guimaraes (Getty)

Xabi Alonso explains how Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer can shine together at Chelsea: ‘I have a plan’

Tuesday 28 July 2026 10:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

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."

Image from: Transfer news LIVE: Vinicius Jr hands Arsenal boost with new decision, Liverpool get £140m Barcola green light

Xabi Alonso explains how Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer can shine together at Chelsea

Barcelona in for Junior Kroupi

Tuesday 28 July 2026 10:00 , Will Castle

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.

Eli Junior Kroupi of Bournemouth (Getty)

Mohamed Salah's move to Besiktas breaks down

Tuesday 28 July 2026 09:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Also on the hunt for a new club is Mohamed Salah – though it appears Besiktas won’t be his next employers. Media in Turkey report that club director Onder Ozen has paused negotiations having been unhappy over the demands of Salah’s agent.

Mohamed Salah is available on a free (Getty)

John Stones in talks with Inter Milan

Tuesday 28 July 2026 09:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

John Stones is available on a free after reaching the end of his Manchester City contract, and the Telegraph believe Inter Milan may be his next club. Arsenal had been keen on the experienced centre-half after William Saliba’s injury.

John Stones has left Manchester City (Getty)

Manchester United in talks to loan striker

Tuesday 28 July 2026 09:00 , PA

Manchester United are in advanced talks to send Joshua Zirkzee, 25, on a season-long loan to Juventus, according to The Sun. The reported deal for the Netherlands forward includes an option to buy for £30m.

Joshua Zirkzee may depart Manchester United (PA Wire)

Man City continue talks with Ayyoub Bouaddi as Josko Gvardiol nears contract extension

Tuesday 28 July 2026 08:45 , Will Castle

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.

Ayyoub Bouaddi had a strong World Cup (Getty)

Leeds close in on James Trafford

Tuesday 28 July 2026 08:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle

James Trafford’s search for a new club could soon be over with Leeds set to announce his signing. The goalkeeper’s return to Manchester City lasted just one season, and a fee of £40m has been mooted by The Athletic.

Liverpool learn Bradley Barcola price

Tuesday 28 July 2026 08:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Widespread reports suggest that Paris Saint-Germain are open to selling Bradley Barcola – but only for a fee of around £145m or more. The Times suggest that Arsenal and Liverpool both have interest, though may be unwilling to pay the terms PSG desire with the French capital club using the Morgan Rogers and Elliot Anderson deals as a benchmark.

Bradley Barcola could leave PSG (Getty)

Negotiations continue for Yan Diomande

Tuesday 28 July 2026 08:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Real Madrid appear to have won the race for the in-demand Yan Diomande, though negotiations continue over the fee for the RB Leipzig winger. Sky Sport in Germany believe a deal is not yet totally done for the Ivorian, a top talent who was strongly linked with Liverpool earlier in the year.

Yan Diomande is nearing a move to Real Madrid (Getty)

Manchester City braced for offer for Rodri from Real Madrid

Tuesday 28 July 2026 07:45 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Real Madrid have been strongly linked with World Cup winner Rodri this summer, and Manchester City are said by The Guardian to be bracing for an offer for the Spanish midfielder.

Rodri was voted the World Cup’s best player (Getty)

Real Madrid to hold contract talks with Vinicius Jr amid Arsenal interest

Tuesday 28 July 2026 07:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Could Real Madrid yet see off Arsenal’s interest and keep Vinicius Jr? Sky Sports reports that new contract talks are planned with the Brazilian’s representatives with hope of a breakthrough.

Vinicius in action for Brazil during the World Cup (Getty)

Chelsea target Jordan Henderson to add experience to their squad

Tuesday 28 July 2026 07:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Widespread reports also suggest Chelsea are hoping to sign Jordan Henderson, who may be available on a free transfer from Brentford. The 36-year-old was part of England’s World Cup squad and would add more experience to Xabi Alonso’s squad.

Could Jordan Henderson join Chelsea? (Getty)

Chelsea make surprise move for Brighton striker Danny Welbeck

Tuesday 28 July 2026 07:12 , PA

Chelsea are in shock talks to sign veteran striker Danny Welbeck from Brighton.

The 35-year-old has emerged as a surprising target to reinforce the Blues’ attacking options, following an impressive season where he netted 13 Premier League goals in 37 appearances.

Chelsea make surprise move for Brighton striker Danny Welbeck

Transfers news LIVE

Tuesday 28 July 2026 07:10 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A very good morning. A busy, and faintly fascinating, summer transfer window rolls on with Premier League clubs and those around Europe scrambling to get deals done after the World Cup. We’ll have all of the latest throughout the day.

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved