Transfer news LIVE: De Jong swap deal, Chelsea’s £70m bid, Man Utd wait for Garnacho bids

Premier League transfer spending higher than last season

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Today’s the day. The new Premier League season kicks off tonight with Arsenal taking on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, but there is still just under a month of the summer transfer window to play out. Plenty of dealings are still to be done before the September 1 deadline, with Manchester United, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and more eyeing more reinforcements.

Chelsea look set to announce the signing of Marc Cucurella from Brighton & Hove Albion after agreeing a deal worth in excess of £60million for the Spanish defender. His impending arrival has prompted Thomas Tuchel to hold crunch talks with Ben Chilwell.

United are still eagerly awaiting a positive outcome from their Frenkie de Jong saga, with his future still up in the air due to deferred wage payments owed by Barcelona. Meanwhile, the Red Devils hunt attacking firepower after Anthony Martial’s latest ill-timed injury.

Tottenham are closing in on their seventh signing of Antonio Conte’s first summer as head coach, but fans may not be too happy with the structure of the deal… Express Sport keeps you up to date on all the latest transfer news coming out of the Premier League and across Europe below…

JUST IN: Ronaldo’s behaviour in Man Utd training is absolutely typical

KEY EVENTS

Chelsea eye De Jong ‘swap deal’

Frenkie de Jong’s agents are understood to be crunching the numbers in order to reach a wage-cut agreement with Barcelona to keep the Dutchman at the cash-strapped Catalan club.

However, Chelsea are reportedly pushing to pip Manchester United to the signing of the midfielder and are thought to have offered the La Liga giants Marcus Alonso as a makeweight within a potential swap deal.

According to Sport, De Jong’s agents are now exploring the possibility of lowering the player’s wages in order to facilitate his stay at the Spanish club. Should no suitable agreement be reached, it is only then that De Jong would be open to discussing a potential move to Chelsea.

Chelsea’s £70m Fofana proposal rejected

Chelsea have reportedly seen a fresh £70million proposal to Leicester City for star centre-back Wesley Fofana turned down.

The Blues saw an opening bid of £60m immediately knocked back by the Foxes with Brendan Rodgers admitting it was “nowhere near the valuation of our ownership”. Despite Chelsea having upped their offer, it seems Leicester remain intent on digging their heels in over the highly-rated 21-year-old.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano now claims Chelsea have returned with an improved offer worth £70m. However, that too has been ‘turned down’ by Leicester with Rodgers insistent that Fofana is not for sale.

Mari nearing Arsenal exit

Pablo Mari is edging ever closer to an Arsenal exit this summer, according to reports.

The Spanish centre-back spent last season on loan in Italy at Udinese and appears destined to return to Serie A with Gunners boss Mikel Arteta having deemed the 28-year-old surplus to requirements.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Mari will definitely be exiting the Emirates this summer with Hellas Verona understood to have tabled Arsenal an offer to take the defender off the Gunners hands of a permanent basis.

Serie A newboys Monza are also said to be pushing to sign Mari on loan for the upcoming season, and are looking to include an obligation-to-buy agreement should they be successful in their bid to survive in Italy’s top-flight this campaign. 

Arteta eyeing more signings

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed the Gunners have not yet finished in the transfer market with regards to new signings following his side’s 2-0 triumph over Crystal Palace in the Premier League curtain-raiser on Friday night.

The north Londoners have already added five new faces to their squad in Marquinhos, Fabio Vieira, Matt Turner, Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko, but it seems more arrivals could be on the way in the coming weeks.

“We are going to try,” Arteta admitted when probed on further potential incomings in the current window. “There are a few things we have planned and we are going to try.”

Good morning!

Welcome folks!

The Premier League is BACK and we’re all set for an enthralling day of action on the pitch with a multitude of games taking place.

But there’s plenty happening away from it too, as clubs continue to scramble around in order to conclude their summer transfer business before the window close in a few weeks’ time.

Stick with us at Express Sport today as we bring you all the latest goings on in the transfer market from across Europe.

Leeds owner ‘felt ashamed’ to speak to Todd Boehly about Raphinha deal

Leeds United owner Andrea Radrizzani has admitted he felt ‘ashamed’ to return to his Chelsea counterpart Todd Boehly to inform him that Raphinha was headed to Barcelona this summer. Chelsea agreed a deal worth around £55million for the Brazilian winger in June, but he delayed a decision before completing a switch to the Nou Camp two weeks later.

Man Utd ‘willing to meet Sesko asking price’

Manchester United are willing to meet Red Bull Salzburg’s £41.8million asking price for Benjamin Sesko, according to reports in Spain. The 19-year-old has emerged as a priority target for Erik ten Hag late in the transfer window. John Murtough recently jetted out for talks with the teenager’s agent, with the Red Devils supremo eager to deliver a fourth signing before September 1.

Tottenham target excluded from squad

Tottenham target Destiny Udogie was absent from the Udinese squad for their Coppa Italia clash with Feralpisalo – sparking optimism a potential move to Spurs is in the works. The 19-year-old wing-back has been the subject of transfer talks between the two clubs as Fabio Paratici eyes a seventh summer signing for manager Antonio Conte.

Roma announce Wijnaldum

Roma have confirmed that they have signed Georginio Wijnaldum from Paris Saint-Germain. The 31-year-old midfielder endured a miserable debut campaign in France last season afer joining PSG from Liverpool when his contract at Anfield expired.

Wijnaldum arrives in Italy on a season-long loan and Roma have the option to sign him permanently at the end of the campaign. 

Chelsea prepared to test Leicester resolve

Chelsea are prepared to test the resolve of Leicester once again by upping their offer for Wesley Fofana after their opening proposal was rejected by the Foxes, Express Sport understands. The 21-year-old centre-back has emerged as Thomas Tuchel’s primary defensive target after Jules Kounde sealed his mega-money switch to Barcelona.

Tottenham could sign Nicolo Zaniolo for new price

It is reported that Roma have lowered their asking price for forward Nicolo Zaniolo, meaning that Tottenham will be able to secure their seventh signing of the summer for a reduced fee if they press on with their bid. Antonio Conte is thought to be very keen on the Italian as he looks to strengthen his frontline.

Chelsea eye Cesare Casadei for bargain price

Chelsea can inflict transfer ‘pain’ on Inter Milan by signing Cesare Casadei for as little as £12.5million, according to reports.

Inter have reportedly wanted to insert a buyback clause in the deal, something Chelsea have not been keen on. But Inter are said to have softened their stance and are willing to sell without such a clause.

Howe earns Newcastle contract

Eddie Howe has signed a new long-term contract to remain Newcastle United manager as the club’s project under new ownership continues.

Howe said: “It’s a great feeling to commit my future to this incredible club. I’m extremely proud to be the head coach of Newcastle United and have enjoyed every moment here.”

Newcastle sporting director, Dan Ashworth, said: “I’m delighted Eddie has committed his long-term future to Newcastle United. He is an incredibly talented leader and has had a huge impact since being appointed in November.”

“It’s a great feeling to commit my future to this incredible club. I’m extremely proud to be the head coach of Newcastle United and have enjoyed every moment here.

Ten Hag’s De Jong declaration

Erik ten Hag has given his latest response to questions over Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, as Manchester United’s pursuit continues.

Ten Hag has suggested United will opt against strengthening in defensive midfield if they can’t acquire the ‘right player’.

And the Dutchman has placed faith in his current options to perform while the Red Devils attempt to get his primary target over the line.

He told reporters: “We want Frenkie? It’s about the right players… In this moment we have players in that position and perform really well.

“It would be a good situation [the sign more players] but I am happy with current squad. We need players. You don’t need any player, you need the right player.”

FULL STORY

Gibbs-White offer rejected

Nottingham Forest have seen a £35million approach for Morgan Gibbs-White rejected by Wolves.

The Athletic report the newly-promoted club say it’s their final offer, but the deal isn’t dead yet due to the 22-year-old winger’s refusal to discuss a new contract.

His current deal expires in 2024, and his stance could persuade Wolves to cash in this summer if a replacement is identified.

Chelsea confirm Cucurella

Chelsea have announced the signing of Brighton & Hove Albion defender Marc Cucurella on a six-year deal.

The Blues have wrapped up Cucurella’s services for a fee surpassing £60m after hijacking Manchester City’s pursuit.

Lewis Colwill has moved the other way, joining Brighton on a season-long loan.

Brighton strongly denied reports that an agreement had been struck earlier this week, and Chelsea made sure to fire back with their confirmation…

Torreira’s Arsenal exit imminent

Lucas Torreira is set to leave Arsenal imminently after slight complications delayed his summer transfer.

Express Sport understands Torreira is likely to complete a move to Galatasaray within the next 24 hours.

The Turkish giants will pay just over £7million for his services as Mikel Arteta’s fire sale continues.

Tuchel provides Cucurella update

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has confirmed the club are working to complete the signing of Marc Cucurella.

The Blues have reportedly agreed a £63m deal with Brighton & Hove Albion for the defender.

And ahead of Chelsea’s season opener against Everton, Tuchel has provided an update on where the transfer is at.

He told reporters: “It’s not done yet. The paperwork is in process and hopefully we can get it finished before noon and Marc is our player.

“Marc is a fantastic player, young player. He’s young, hungry, mobile, very intelligent player in several positions in our system. That’s why we hope that the transfer goes through.”

Everton to sign Onana

Everton will complete the signing of Amadou Onana in the coming days after striking a £33.5m deal with Lille for the 20-year-old midfielder.

The Toffees have reportedly agreed personal terms and a transfer fee, opening the door for his Goodison Park arrival.

Onana rejected the chance to join West Ham United in favour of Everton, with Frank Lampard also expected to add Idrissa Gana Gueye to his squad soon.

Colwill to leave Chelsea

Levi Colwill is set to join Brighton & Hove Albion as part of Chelsea’s £63m deal for Marc Cucurella.

Fabrizio Romano reports Colwill will move to the Amex Stadium on a season-long loan with no option to buy included.

The 19-year-old centre-back has already arrived at Brighton’s training ground ahead of a medical.

Chelsea’s £300m plan

New Chelsea owner Todd Boehly is ready to back Thomas Tuchel with a staggering £300m to spend in his first summer since replacing Roman Abramovich at the helm, The Telegraph report.

Chelsea have already splashed over £100m on Raheem Sterling, Kalidou Kouliably and Gabriel Slonina.

But the Blues are in talks over a move for ex-Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, actively pursuing Leicester City centre-back Wesley Fofana and ready to hijack Manchester United’s deal for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.

Marc Cucurella’s £63m move from Brighton & Hove Albion could be confirmed today.

Neto is Premier League-bound

AFC Bournemouth have agreed a deal with Barcelona to sign 33-year-old goalkeeper Neto.

Sky Sports report the Brazilian will travel to England today for a medical before his switch to the Vitality Stadium becomes official.

Scott Parker has also recruited Ryan Fredericks, Joe Rothwell and Marcus Tavernier as he prepares to lead Bournemouth into their latest season of Premier League football.

Pep unsure on Bernardo future

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted that he’s unsure whether Bernardo Silva will still be at the club beyond the summer transfer deadline.

Barcelona have been heavily linked with Bernardo, who is understood to be open to a move to the Nou Camp.

And it’s a deal that’s expected to happen if the Blaugrana can offload Frenkie de Jong.

Guardiola, in his first pre-match presser of the new season, has showered the Portuguese playmaker with praise but suggested he could depart.

He told reporters: “I would love for Bernardo to continue here, a very special player in the locker room.

“But I don’t know what will happen. What happens will happen, if he stays is perfect, if he has to leave it’s because football is like this.”

Cornet to join West Ham today

Maxwel Cornet will soon be donning the iconic claret and blue at the London Stadium.

According to talkSPORT, Cornet will complete his £17.5m move from Burnley to West Ham United today.

And the Ivorian attacker could even be registered in time to make his debut in Sunday’s Premier League opener against Manchester City.

Raphinha a ‘sacrifice’ for Leeds

Leeds United owner Andrea Radrizzani has described Raphinha as a ‘sacrifice’ after his £55million summer switch to Barcelona.

The Whites have heavily backed Jesse Marsch this summer with almost £100m in signings as they look to avoid another Premier League relegation battle.

And while he admitted he didn’t want Kalvin Phillips to leave, the Elland Road chief has claimed Raphinha’s exit was planned to help bolster Leeds’ transfer funds.

He told The Athletic: “It was more a sacrifice to buy the players we needed to reinforce the squad.

“We cannot do another three years spending £100million without any (transfer) income. The club will collapse. This is the first year in the Premier League that we sold players.”

Frenkie de Jong latest

Rumours still swirl surrounding Frenkie de Jong’s future at Barcelona, with Chelsea now firmly in the frame for his signature.

The Evening Standard have provided the latest…

They claim Chelsea have asked Barca to keep them informed of three players’ situations – Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Memphis Depay and De Jong.

Although they have yet to make contact with the Dutchman’s representatives, the Blues are ready to challenge United if his deferred salary payment issue is resolved.

Chelsea’s fresh blow

Chelsea have hit their latest summer transfer hurdle, but this time it’s relating to Thomas Tuchel’s attempts to streamline his squad with exits.

Kepa Arrizabalaga has been in talks with Napoli over a loan move after Chelsea’s £12m capture of Gabriel Slonina.

However, Gianluca Di Marzio reports that despite being in negotiations with the Blues for Kepa, Napoli have turned their attention elsewhere.

The Serie A outfit are now eyeing Keylor Navas, who could leave Paris Saint-Germain in the coming weeks.

Ten Hag ‘unhappy’ with Man Utd

Erik ten Hag is growing disgruntled by Manchester United’s bumpy first transfer window since appointing him as manager.

The Independent report Ten Hag is unhappy that United have failed to land more of his transfer targets before the start of the new season.

He has added Tyrell Malacia, Christian Eriksen and Lisandro Martinez to his squad, but would’ve hoped for his priority target, Frenkie de Jong, by now.

De Jong’s future is up in the air, with a move to Old Trafford no certainty, while United also eye a deal for Red Bull Salzburg striker Benjamin Sesko.

The Red Devils have faced frustration this summer, though, already missing out on Ten Hag’s first and second-choice attacking options – Darwin Nunez and Antony.

You can’t blame him for being dissatisfied…

FULL STORY

Good morning!

Goodddd morning!

It’s Friday, August 5, which means one thing… the Premier League is BACK!

But there is plenty more action still to go down off the pitch as clubs line up deals in the final month of the summer transfer window.

Welcome to Express Sport’s live coverage, with regular updates coming your way throughout the day.

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