Arsenal are closing in on a sensational double deal for Bruno Guimaraes and Vinicius Junior, with the move for the Newcastle captain described as a 'done deal' since the weekend. The Gunners have already seen a first official bid for the Brazilian midfielder rejected, but personal terms are reportedly agreed on a club-record contract for the Real Madrid star.
Guimaraes to Arsenal: 'Done Deal' Claims
According to ESPN Brazil journalist Bruno Andrade, all major details of Guimaraes' transfer have been agreed behind the scenes. Newcastle United are reportedly furious that details of the agreement leaked earlier than expected, as they had hoped to keep negotiations confidential until they were ready to announce his departure and unveil his replacement.
Amid reports a first bid was rejected on Monday, this report claims the deal was essentially finalised before then. Former Chelsea midfielder Claude Makelele has endorsed the move, saying Guimaraes' game fits Arsenal perfectly.
Man Utd Explore Alternatives
Manchester United are aware that completing a deal for Newcastle left-back Lewis Hall will be far from straightforward and are already exploring alternative targets. The club has reportedly assessed Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly as a potential option, while Spanish outlet AS claim that United are also monitoring Racing Santander defender Jorge Salinas. However, United could face competition from Barcelona for the promising defender.
Chelsea Confirm Arrivals, Target Defender
Chelsea have confirmed the arrivals of Danny Welbeck, Jordan Henderson and Valentin Barco, and are now working on a deal for Pep Chavarria amid links with Alex Scott. Meanwhile, Makelele has predicted that Chelsea will not sign Mike Maignan, saying he doesn't see Milan letting him go.
Liverpool in Talks for Barcola
Liverpool have seen their first bid for Bradley Barcola rejected, said to be worth around £100million, but will go back in to test Paris Saint-Germain's resolve. According to Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool and PSG have now commenced talks over a deal for the Frenchman, who is keen on a move to Anfield after reportedly deciding against signing a new contract with the reigning European champions.
Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has confirmed a winger is at the top of his shopping list despite the arrival of Victor Munoz from Osasuna. He told reporters last month: "I think it is difficult to say a number. When the market is open, you have to be always open to new options to improve the squad."
Tottenham Eye Gakpo, Osimhen
Tottenham hope to pounce on Liverpool's pursuit of Barcola by making a move for Cody Gakpo, while they remain keen on Savinho and are now being linked with Victor Osimhen.
Fulham Confirm Double Deal
Fulham have confirmed the signing of Gonzalo Garcia from Real Madrid, with new head coach Alvaro Arbeloa using links with his former club to land the coup. Cesar Palacios has also arrived from Real Madrid, with the pair costing a combined fee of £42.5million. Palacios has signed a five-year contract, keeping him at the club until 2031, with an option to extend by a further 12 months.
Garcia said: "I'm very grateful, very happy to be here. I have to thank the board and Arbeloa for the trust they've put in me, and I'm very, very excited to start."
Arsenal Star Issues Vinicius Verdict
Christos Tzolis has said he is confident of impressing Mikel Arteta, despite Arsenal's interest in Vinicius Junior. The Greece international became the Gunners' third signing of the summer upon completing a £34million move from Club Brugge last month. Tzolis has delivered his verdict on Arsenal potentially signing the Brazil superstar by insisting he plans to stake his claim for a spot on the left-wing.
Liverpool Injury Update
Iraola has allayed fears over a fresh injury setback for Jeremie Frimpong, confirming that the change in the 4-2 loss to Leeds United was just a precaution. The Dutchman is not believed to have joined an injury list that already includes Joe Gomez, Hugo Ekitike, Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni.
