Manchester United are chasing midfield reinforcements. Arsenal have entered the race for a Super Eagles star, and Newcastle may miss out on yet more transfer targets.
Today’s blog runs through all the latest moves, bids, and fallouts.
Arsenal rivalling Inter Milan for Ademola Lookman
Arsenal have entered the race to sign Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman, with reports suggesting they’re willing to meet the £43m asking price Inter Milan are yet to match.
The Gunners are still looking to strengthen their attacking options after an inconsistent pre-season, and Lookman’s ability to beat defenders and contribute goals makes him a standout target. With Inter stalling, a move to the Premier League could be on the cards – and Atalanta would likely prefer to sell him abroad.
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Valencia submit Sadiq bid
Valencia have moved first in the race for Umar Sadiq by submitting a formal loan offer to Real Sociedad.
The Nigerian striker has struggled for fitness and form since arriving in San Sebastián, but still holds strong value in La Liga. While clubs like Getafe and Girona have shown interest, only Valencia have acted so far.
Kazeem Olaigbe lands in Turkey
22-year-old winger Kazeem Olaigbe is set to complete his switch from Rennes to Trabzonspor. The Belgian-Nigerian arrived in Turkey to a hero’s welcome and will join a growing Nigerian contingent at the club, alongside Paul Onuachu and Anthony Nwakaeme.
United approach Carlos Baleba
Man Utd have made a formal approach for Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Red Devils have contacted the player’s camp and are weighing up a move for the dynamic 20-year-old midfielder. Brighton are reluctant to sell and value Baleba highly, but United are prioritising midfield reinforcements after strengthening up front. Baleba fits the profile Ruben Amorim is keen to build around.
Isak pushes for Liverpool move
Newcastle striker Alexander Isak trained separately from the squad on Wednesday amid ongoing interest from Liverpool.
After skipping the Magpies’ pre-season tour due to a minor injury, Isak travelled to Spain to train alone and has since returned. Liverpool had a £110m bid rejected but could return with another offer. Isak has reportedly told Newcastle he wants to leave for Anfield.
Tottenham bid rejected
Spurs have had a £34m bid rejected for Como’s Nico Paz, as they search for a replacement for the injured James Maddison. The Serie A club are demanding closer to £52m for the former Real Madrid talent, who was named the best U23 player in Italy last season.
Liverpool target Barcola
Liverpool are keeping tabs on Bradley Barcola as a possible alternative to Isak. The PSG forward is valued at over £86m and has not asked to leave, but the Reds are expected to test the waters. Barcola joins Rodrygo and Isak on Liverpool’s shortlist as they prepare for the exit of Darwin Nunez.
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Red Devils meet for Sesko talks
United are in fresh talks with RB Leipzig over Benjamin Sesko. The 22-year-old Slovenian striker is seen as the final piece in United’s revamped attack. Talks are progressing, and while the deal remains complicated, there is optimism it can be completed before the window closes.
Milan block Thiaw, Al Nassr target Wissa
AC Milan have rejected a £26m offer from Newcastle for Malick Thiaw. The Rossoneri have instead made Yunus Musah and Samuel Chukwueze available for transfer. Meanwhile, Al Nassr are reportedly eyeing Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, a long-time Newcastle target, with the Saudi club now threatening to hijack the deal.
Forest’s Hutchinson bid rejected
Forest’s £35m offer for Omari Hutchinson has been turned down by Ipswich Town. Talks are ongoing, with Brentford also considering a renewed bid. The England U21 star impressed in his debut Premier League season and could still make a big-money move. Forest are also in talks for Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz.
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