The summer transfer window is accelerating as Premier League clubs push to strengthen their squads. Arsenal have scouted PSG winger Bradley Barcola as an alternative to primary target Morgan Rogers, while Manchester United have turned to Bournemouth's Alex Scott and Borussia Dortmund's Felix Nmecha after losing the race for Mateus Fernandes to Tottenham. Chelsea remain determined to sign Granit Xhaka despite a rejected bid and are close to completing a deal for Pep Chavarria.
Arsenal Scout Barcola as Rogers Alternative
Arsenal have been encouraged to make a move for Bradley Barcola after scouting the France star. The Gunners have reportedly made the PSG winger a summer target, along with Christos Tzolis and Morgan Rogers. Barcola is said to be pushing to leave PSG amid the club's pursuit of Yan Diomande, who will cost around €100 million. Liverpool have also been linked with Barcola, having pursued Diomande. Arsenal remain keen to reinforce their midfield, with Morgan Rogers their priority target despite Aston Villa's £130 million valuation. A second bid for Bruno Guimaraes is also expected.
Tottenham Win Race for Mateus Fernandes
Tottenham have sensationally won the race to sign West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, beating Manchester United with a club-record-smashing £85 million bid. Both Spurs and Man Utd had made the young Portuguese a priority summer signing as the Hammers welcomed a bidding war. Fernandes was prepared to join either club, as his agent, Jorge Mendes, negotiated with the rival bidders. Spurs will pay a guaranteed £85 million fixed fee for the 21-year-old, easily surpassing the previous club-record £65 million purchase of Dominic Solanke in 2024. Man Utd’s finances could not match Spurs’ might, both in terms of fee and player salary. Spurs will now look to break their transfer record for the second time in a week by pursuing Newcastle star Sandro Tonali, who could cost close to £100 million.
Manchester United Turn to Scott and Nmecha
Manchester United have turned their attention to Bournemouth’s Alex Scott and Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha after missing out on Mateus Fernandes. TEAMtalk report that Michael Carrick views Scott as a strong alternative, although BBC Sport add that Bournemouth are determined to keep the England youngster and could demand around £80 million to change their mind. Former Man City youngster Nmecha is open to a Premier League return, and Man Utd hope to negotiate a lower asking price with Dortmund. United must now turn attentions elsewhere with Carlos Baleba also of interest.
Chelsea Close in on Chavarria and Other Deals
Chelsea remain determined to sign Granit Xhaka from Sunderland despite an opening £8 million bid being rejected. The Blues are also negotiating for Maxence Lacroix and are close to completing a deal for Marco Palestra and Pep Chavarria. Chelsea are pushing to strengthen their squad under new management.
Liverpool and Other Clubs in the Mix
Liverpool also want Barcola, after missing out on Yan Diomande, who is set to join Paris Saint-Germain. Manchester City have joined the race for Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, with interest from Arsenal as well. City could look to bring the 18-year-old in on loan or on a pre-agreement which would allow him another season to develop in Ligue 1, according to Ben Jacobs.
Other News: Koeman Steps Down, Klopp Open to Germany Job
Ronald Koeman has resigned from his post as head coach of the Dutch national team after being dumped out of the World Cup by Morocco. The Dutch were not entirely convincing in group play and fell at the first hurdle in the knockout rounds. Their meeting with Morocco in Guadalajara ended 1-1 in regular time, before misses from Crysencio Summerville, Quentin Timber and Justin Kluivert scuppered their efforts in the penalty shootout. Writing in a translated open letter on his Instagram page, Koeman said: "Last night (Monday) I took the decision to end my stint as head coach of the Dutch National Team. Looking back on my career, I feel especially proud and gratefulness." Meanwhile, Jurgen Klopp is said to be open to replacing Julian Nagelsmann as Germany’s head coach after Germany's World Cup exit, per the Telegraph.
Coventry and Other Moves
Coventry have completed a deal to sign Aurele Amenda from Eintracht Frankfurt for around £17 million, according to Sky Germany. Coventry City manager Frank Lampard has signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2029 after guiding the Sky Blues to the Championship title and promotion to the Premier League. Lampard said: "After the incredible work of everybody to get promoted and win the Championship, it was important to enjoy the moment... I'm looking forward to getting back with the players." RB Leipzig have sent a bid of €26 million (£22.3 million) for Burnley's Maxime Esteve after Burnley were relegated to the Championship.
