The transfer window is set to ramp up further with the 48-team World Cup in North America now concluded. Attention quickly turns back to club football ahead of the Premier League's return on August 21. Major deals have already been struck, including England midfielders Morgan Rogers and Elliot Anderson moving for enormous fees, but plenty of business remains before the summer market closes on September 1.
Arsenal Targets Midfield Reinforcements
Arsenal are keen to strengthen in midfield, but a move for Bruno Guimaraes appears difficult. Newcastle are determined not to sell, and the Gunners will not exceed their valuation of the Brazilian. This could force Arsenal to look elsewhere, with Manu Kone emerging as a cheaper option. The 25-year-old started four games for France at the World Cup, playing 45 minutes in the semi-final defeat to Spain. Manchester United are also keen on the Roma midfielder, but Arsenal have enquired about his availability. Kone is a strong ball-carrier who would add power to Arsenal's midfield. With Declan Rice managing neural pain in his hamstring for six months and Martin Zubimendi's form dropping off in the second half of last season, Arsenal need midfield depth. Christian Norgaard's future is also uncertain, making Kone a potential target.
Yan Diomande: A Winger to Solve Arsenal's Attacking Needs
Ivory Coast were knocked out in the round of 32, but Yan Diomande enhanced his reputation. In his first game against Ecuador, he faced Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie and dribbled past him four times—Hincapie had been dribbled past just 19 times all last season for the Gunners. Arsenal missed out on Morgan Rogers, but Diomande is a more out-and-out winger who adds pace. Signing a winger is Arsenal's big priority this summer after selling Leandro Trossard and with Gabriel Martinelli's future uncertain. RB Leipzig likely demand over £100m for Diomande, who also attracts interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool.
Tottenham Eye Striker Upgrade: Brian Brobbey
Spurs are not short of strikers but need an upgrade. Richarlison has struggled for consistency, and Dominic Solanke cannot prove fitness regularly. Interest in both has been thin, but Spurs, looking to maximise player sales to offset aggressive spending, could entertain offers. If a club comes in for either, Spurs need a replacement, and Sunderland and Netherlands forward Brian Brobbey fits the bill. Brobbey enjoyed an excellent first Premier League season, scoring seven goals in 31 appearances, earning a reputation for physicality and hold-up play. The 24-year-old bullied Spurs' defence home and away, netting an 80th-minute equaliser at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. At the World Cup, he scored three goals as the Netherlands topped their group before losing to Morocco in the last 32.
Zion Suzuki: Competition for Kinsky in Goal
Spurs have put faith in Antonin Kinsky by handing him a new contract, expecting Guglielmo Vicario to leave. But Spurs remain in the market for a goalkeeper, and Japan's Zion Suzuki offers an alternative to long-term target James Trafford. Born in America, Suzuki chose to represent Japan and impressed despite their last-32 exit to Brazil. The 23-year-old made seven saves, including a superb stop to tip Vinicius Jr's close-range effort onto the post, before Brazil struck late to win 2-1. An imposing physical presence, Suzuki is noted for claiming crosses and distribution. The Parma shot-stopper already attracts Premier League interest and could provide competition for Kinsky.
Chelsea's Centre-Back Search: Joel Ordonez
Chelsea are in the market for a centre-back and have drawn up a list of targets. Joel Ordonez is among the options, and his performances for Ecuador at the World Cup encouraged the Blues. Ecuador were knocked out by co-hosts Mexico in the last 32, but they showed defensive astuteness. PSG centre-back Willian Pacho is the heart of Ecuador's defence, but alongside him, Ordonez impressed with speed and aerial ability. The 22-year-old endured a tricky match against Mexico and was replaced at half-time, but he is seen as one of the brightest young defensive talents in Europe. His progressive passing makes him an interesting option in and out of possession.
