The Transfer DealSheet: Latest on Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Barcelona and more

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Welcome to the latest edition of the Transfer DealSheet, your weekly guide to what is happening in the summer transfer window.

Every week, our team of dedicated writers, including Adam Leventhal and David Ornstein, will take you inside the market to explain the deals being worked on, the players who could arrive and the ones who are on their way out across the Premier League and beyond. You can read last week’s edition here.

The information found within this article has been gathered according to The Athletic’s sourcing guidelines. Unless stated, our reporters have spoken to more than one person briefed on each deal before offering the clubs involved the opportunity to comment. Those responses, where they were given, have been included in the Transfer DealSheet.

In this edition, we look at Arsenal’s interest in Riccardo Calafiori, explain why Joshua Zirkzee is edging closer to moving to Old Trafford as Manchester United step up their summer plans, find out why Marc Guiu chose Chelsea and assess Raphinha’s Barcelona future.

We aim to bring you analysis you can trust about what is happening at Europe’s leading clubs and the latest information we’re hearing from across the market. David Ornstein, our leading transfer reporter, will also deliver his one to watch here each week.

This article is long but detailed, so enjoy it all — or search for the club or player you want to read about.

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David Ornstein’s One To Watch: Riccardo Calafiori

Riccardo Calafiori’s performances for Italy caught the eye at the European Championship, but his displays will not have come as a surprise to Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.

Arteta is a big fan of Calafiori’s and the Bologna player is his primary defensive target as Arsenal look to strengthen what was already the Premier League’s meanest back line last season.

The 22-year-old is left-footed and can play at left-back or centre-back and can operate as an inverted full-back — a position Arteta has embraced in his formation in recent seasons.

With Italy now out of the Euros and Arteta and some of the players back from their summer holidays, the manager will hope to press ahead with the signing, though he may need to convince others within the club that the deal represents good business.

It is likely a player will need to be sold, but it is unclear whether this would be before or after the potential acquisition of Calafiori. Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko are the most obvious candidates, with the former looking more plausible at present because — despite his popularity at Arsenal — the Poland international appears to be generating more interest, particularly from Italy.

Analysis: What would Calafiori offer Arsenal?

Being a left-footed centre-back would make Calafiori a valuable addition to Arsenal, as would his versatility. Before joining Bologna, he often played left-back for Basel and could do the same at Arsenal if Arteta wanted to play him with Gabriel and William Saliba.

Calafiori displayed some of these traits last season, with one of the Bologna midfielders often dropping deep to allow the Italian to bomb forward on the left, out wide and centrally. This was a key reason behind Calafiori getting three assists in 30 Serie A appearances. It could be replicated at Arsenal if he plays at left-back, though he will have more defensive work to do.

A look at Calafiori’s defensive and passing stats from last season suggests he was some distance clear of his competition.

While performing better than Gabriel in most of these metrics, he also had the same number of goal-creating actions per 90 as Oleksandr Zinchenko (0.3) and more switches of play than Gabriel, Saliba and Zinchenko combined (0.6 vs 0.4).

Calafiori is also confident on the ball, with his 49.5 carries and 1.1 carries into the final third per 90 ranking him in the top 12 per cent of defenders respectively in Serie A. He has an innate ability to attack open space, completing 62 per cent of his take-ons.

However, he ranked in the bottom 11 per cent in times dispossessed (0.5) and bottom two per cent in miscontrols (1.2) per 90, while his 1.3 fouls per 90 was marginally over the league average of 1.2.

These are fixable issues given Calafiori is only 22 and the positive attributes of his game suggest this would be a shrewd signing by Arsenal.

Anantaajith Raghuraman

What we’re hearing

• Manchester United have discussed Brentford’s Ivan Toney and Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin as they look at striking options. Laurie Whitwell
• Ipswich Town are still hoping to sign Hull City pair Jacob Greaves and Jayden Philogene, in what would be two separate deals. The Athletic reported last week that Ipswich made a joint offer worth about £35million plus add-ons for the Hull team-mates and talks are continuing, though one deal is not reliant on the other. David Ornstein
• But… Ipswich face competition from Everton for Philogene after they made a bid in the region of £16m plus add-ons for the 22-year-old winger. Adam Leventhal
• Brighton are set to sign 18-year-old midfielder Malick Yalcouye from IFK Gothenburg for around £6m. The Mali prospect has been outstanding in 11 appearances in Sweden’s top-flight Allsvenskan for IFK after signing from Ivory Coast club Asec Mimosas in February on a five-year contract. Andy Naylor
• Brentford are preparing for interest in midfielder Frank Onyeka due to his limited minutes in the second half of last season. The Nigeria international is still considered to be an important squad member, but the club is aware a lack of game time makes alternative options appealing. Brentford would want significantly more than the £8.5m they paid to Nordsjaelland in 2021 and are protected in negotiations by a contract until 2027 with an extra year option. Adam Leventhal
• Aston Villa will review loan options for defender Kortney Hause. The 28-year-old has not played since September 2022 — when on loan at Watford — due to a knee injury that required surgery, but is ready to return to training. Hause is in the last year of his contract at Villa and without a renewal on the table under Unai Emery, options — including from the Championship — will be looked at. Adam Leventhal
• Watford are expecting interest in Yaser Asprilla as the Copa America draws to a close. The Colombia international — who is part of the squad who will play Uruguay in the semi-finals — is known to have admirers around the world. There is a growing acceptance at the Championship club that the attacking midfielder — Watford’s most saleable asset — is likely to be allowed to leave if the club’s valuation is met. The 20-year-old has scored seven goals and provided 10 assists in 86 appearances since arriving from Envigado. While the club would want to build around Asprilla, it’s acknowledged that a pathway to a bigger club may be difficult to turn down for the player and will prove beneficial for the reputation of the club for future prospects. Adam Leventhal
• Stoke are fielding interest in midfielder Josh Laurent, who has just one year left on his contract with the Championship side. The 29-year-old club captain is attracting interest from elsewhere in the Championship, as well as from Turkey. It is acknowledged internally at Stoke that Laurent is likely to leave if the club’s valuation is met. Adam Leventhal
• Orlando City have rejected an offer for forward Facundo Torres from Red Star Belgrade. Heightened interest was featured in The Transfer DealSheet last week and since then, the Serbian side submitted an initial bid in the region of £6.3m plus add-ons. That did not meet the MLS club’s valuation and it has subsequently been declined. It’s unclear whether this will lead to further negotiations. Torres, 24, has two years remaining on his contract, with the club holding a two-year extension option. Red Star were contacted for comment. Adam Leventhal

Arsenal

What has happened this week?

As reported in Italy and as referenced above by David Ornstein, Arsenal are interested in Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori. The Italy international would like to move to the Premier League and is keen to join Arsenal if a deal can be agreed. There are, however, significant obstacles to be overcome: his price is inflated by a good European Championship and a sizeable sell-on fee would be due to his former club Basel.

There is also the issue of Calafiori’s history of serious knee problems (see graph below). It remains to be seen whether Arteta’s belief in the player will overcome any possible fitness concerns.

Arsenal have also contacted Wolves to express an interest in 30-year-old goalkeeper Dan Bentley. They need cover for David Raya, who has now joined the club permanently from Brentford.

Arsenal sold 21-year-old striker Mika Biereth to Sturm Graz for £4milllion — a club-record fee for the Austrian club. Arsenal also retain a sell-on clause for the Denmark Under-21 international’s next move.

Would signing a defender, such as Calafiori, be dependent on exits?

Almost certainly.

Arsenal have a surfeit of left-sided defenders on the books. Loanees Kieran Tierney and Nuno Tavares remain available for permanent transfer, but Arsenal may also have to dispense with a player who has until now been part of Arteta’s plans.

Zinchenko has two years remaining on his contract but has not yet been offered a new deal, which indicates that Arsenal may be prepared to sell him. There’s also the possibility that Arsenal could cash in on Poland international Jakub Kiwior, who has admirers in Italy.

What positions/players are they looking at?

As well as a left-sided defender, Arsenal want a central midfielder. One player of interest is Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino, who headed Spain’s late winner in their Euro 2024 quarter-final win over Germany.

Arteta is an admirer of the former Newcastle man’s talent and physicality. Merino turned 28 in June, which would place him outside of Arsenal’s typical recruitment profile. The relative youth of the squad, however, means they can add more experienced players when required, as they did with Jorginho and Leandro Trossard.

Merino scored a late winner for Spain against Germany (Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

If Arsenal are to sign a wide player, Nico Williams would be Arteta’s preference.

Which players could be leaving?

Arsenal’s strategy for the summer is to raise the level of the squad. A necessary part of that is selling players off, with Aaron Ramsdale, Thomas Partey, Emile Smith Rowe, Reiss Nelson and Eddie Nketiah all available for transfer.

James McNicholas

Chelsea

What has happened this week?

An agreement was reached to acquire Portugal Under-20 international Renato Veiga from Basel of Switzerland for a fee of €14million (£11.8m/$15.2m), which would make him the club’s fifth signing of the summer.

Veiga, a 20-year-old midfielder, has flown to London for a medical ahead of joining up with new head coach Enzo Maresca’s squad for pre-season training at the club’s Cobham base, and his transfer will be formally announced soon. Sporting Lisbon, the club he left to join Basel, are due 10 per cent of the final fee.

An agreement has been reached for Chelsea to sign Veiga, right, of Basel (Harry Langer/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

That was not the only potential arrival under discussion.

Talks have continued with Argentina’s Boca Juniors over a deal worth around £17million, plus add-ons, for 19-year-old defender Aaron Anselmino, who is expected to spend at least the next six months on loan back at the Buenos Aires club.

Late on Monday, an agreement in principle was reached to sign Atlanta United’s USMNT left-back Caleb Wiley, also 19.

The United States international is expected to join for a fee of around £8.5m and on a contract until June 2031. Wiley is set to be sent on loan to Strasbourg next season for regular first-team football.

In terms of outgoings, Cobham graduate Michael Golding has signed for Leicester City in a deal worth £5million.

Why did Chelsea sign Veiga?

Targeted by Chelsea’s recruitment team in part because of his suitability for Maresca’s preferred system, Veiga is a tall (190cm/6ft 3in), technically adept left-sided defender capable of playing left-back, centre-back and defensive midfield. Maresca wants full-backs who can invert into midfield when Chelsea have possession and Veiga, along with Marc Cucurella, is viewed as being able to perform this role from the left.

Chelsea pursued the deal quietly while being repeatedly linked with Bologna’s Italy international defender Riccardo Calafiori, and regarded the younger, cheaper Veiga as a much better value proposition.

It is not yet decided if Veiga will have an immediate first-team role. Maresca will work with him in pre-season and assess whether he is ready to contribute this season or needs a loan spell to aid his development. But his arrival is a further indication, following the £30million signing of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester, that Chelsea are recruiting with Maresca in mind — even beyond his upcoming debut season.

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What positions/players are they looking at?

Chelsea are still looking to strengthen at left-winger and striker, but there is less incentive to conduct business quickly now June 30, a date so important for staying within profit and sustainability rules (PSR) has passed. Nico Williams is the highest-profile option to upgrade their left wing. Chelsea, however, are well aware they are not the only big club interested in Athletic Bilbao’s 21-year-old Spain international, who has shone at Euro 2024.

Maresca’s squad is reasonably well-stocked up front, with Nicolas Jackson backed up by promising youngsters Marc Guiu and Deivid Washington, and Christopher Nkunku also capable of playing as a No 9 in the Italian’s system. But as underlined by their earlier enquiry about Alexander Isak of Newcastle, Chelsea will look closely if a top striker becomes available. Interest in Jhon Duran of Aston Villa and Lille’s Jonathan David has receded, but Samu Omorodion, 20, of Atletico Madrid, is still being monitored.

Chelsea do not feel an urgent need to sign another midfielder, even if Conor Gallagher leaves in this window.

Gallagher’s future is undecided (Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Firm decisions are likely to be made during the club’s five-game pre-season tour of the United States, starting against Wrexham on July 24, with more expensive purchases partly contingent on raising further money from sales.

Which players could be leaving?

Chelsea are highly motivated to offload Romelu Lukaku, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Malang Sarr, while Armando Broja, Cesare Casadei, David Datro Fofana and Trevoh Chalobah could also depart. Gallagher’s future is also up in the air, with Atletico one club known to be interested.

The only member of the first-team squad available for loan is 20-year-old defender Alfie Gilchrist, who has interest from several clubs, including Serie A new boys Como, where former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas is the assistant manager.

On the academy front, Chelsea do not want to sell attacking midfielder Alex Matos and will look to send him on a season-long loan. Several clubs have expressed an interest in borrowing the 19-year-old for 2024-25, including some in the Championship, where he spent the second half of the last campaign with Huddersfield Town, but also in France’s Ligue 1 and the German Bundesliga.

Another leading under-21s prospect, 19-year-old midfielder Leo Castledine, is the subject of enquiries from clubs in the second-tier Championship and League One, the third division of English football. over a season-long loan.

Liam Twomey, Dan Sheldon and Adam Leventhal

Liverpool

What has happened this week?

Arne Slot was officially unveiled, and the new head coach talked up the depth of talent he has inherited from Jurgen Klopp. With the Dutchman keen to fully assess the squad during pre-season, sporting director Richard Hughes indicated that transfer business is more likely to take place later in the window.

The club also landed a windfall of around £2million after the completion of Kamil Grabara’s transfer from Copenhagen to Wolfsburg. A fee of around £11.4m was agreed last year but the Polish goalkeeper’s move from Denmark to Germany only became official at the start of July. Liverpool inserted a 20 per cent sell-on clause in the deal when they sold Grabara to Copenhagen for around £3million in 2021. Grabara left Anfield without making a competitive senior appearance.

Backup goalkeeper Adrian confirmed he was leaving Liverpool following the end of his contract. The 37-year-old was offered a one-year extension but has opted to rejoin boyhood club Real Betis in La Liga. The 22-year-old ’keeper Vitezslav Jaros will be promoted to Slot’s senior squad to provide cover for Alisson and Caoimhin Kelleher.

Thiago took the decision to bring the curtain down on his illustrious career. The Spanish midfielder had been considering his options since waving goodbye to Anfield in May. His final season at Liverpool was wrecked by a hip problem.

The wait for the first signing of the Slot era goes on, but Liverpool’s new backroom staff is coming together. Former Manchester City analyst Aaron Briggs has been appointed as the club’s new elite development coach, while the former Everton defender Johnny Heitinga is also in talks over a coaching role.

What’s the latest on defensive recruitment?

Liverpool continue to consider their options following the departure of centre-back Joel Matip as a free agent at the end of last season. They retain a strong interest in Lille’s Leny Yoro but expect Real Madrid to secure the 18-year-old French defender’s signature. The situation will be influenced by what happens with outgoings.

Sepp van den Berg, who returned to Liverpool this summer after a successful loan spell at German club Mainz, has impressed Slot during the opening stages of pre-season.

Van den Berg played for Mainz last season (Luciano Lima/Getty Images)

Slot is determined to give the 22-year-old opportunities to prove himself during the upcoming tour of America when centre-backs Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez are all set to be missing following their involvement in the Euros.

Liverpool have already turned down offers from Mainz and Wolfsburg for Van den Berg, who they value at around £20million.

What positions/players are they looking at?

As well as a centre-back, a defensive midfielder and an attacking wide player have also been discussed.

However, with a youthful squad packed with potential, it was never going to be a busy summer for Liverpool in terms of incomings. Much depends on who steps up during pre-season and what gaps still need to be filled.

“We need to improve on the training pitch, first and foremost. And with the window open we will always be opportunistic if we can,” Hughes said.

Which players could be leaving?

Nat Phillips’ eight-year stay at Liverpool will be coming to an end. The 27-year-old defender, who has entered the final year of his contract, was the subject of a £4million bid from Turkish club Trabzonspor, but Liverpool are holding out for £8m to £10m. Phillips is also attracting interest from several Championship clubs, including Scott Parker’s Burnley.

It remains to be seen if a club will test Liverpool’s resolve to keep £25m-rated goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, who is desperate to become a No 1 after a long stint as Alisson’s deputy.

Luis Diaz has also been linked with a summer exit, but Liverpool have not had any offers for him and are not looking to sell the Colombian.

James Pearce

Manchester City

What has happened this week?

Kevin De Bruyne stated he will have a “quiet summer” and will continue at City for another season, but that did not stop reports of him agreeing a deal with Al Ittihad of Saudi Arabia. As reported in last week’s DealSheet, the club expect De Bruyne, now 33 and out of contract at the end of the coming campaign, to stay this summer.

That is also the case for Ederson, although there were reports last week that he has reached an agreement with another Saudi side, Al Nassr. The Brazilian goalkeeper’s future has been subject to speculation since the final weeks of last season: it had appeared in the spring he was set to sign a new contract, but that became more doubtful as the campaign drew to a close.

Sources close to Ederson felt he was ready to make a move to the Middle East around that period and every week brings new reports about his future. City have been exploring the goalkeeper market, although that was largely driven by uncertainty around No 2 Stefan Ortega’s own situation.

City expect both De Bruyne and Ederson to stay (Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

The Athletic has reported City had reached an agreement with a goalkeeper to come in and be their backup if Ortega left but, in the end, he signed a new contract last month.

City are not expecting to have to bring in any major replacements this summer, including for De Bruyne and Ederson, as well as Bernardo Silva, but there is certainly some clarity needed around their No 1 goalkeeper.

What is the latest with Joao Cancelo?

The situation with Joao Cancelo now is what it has been for the past 18 months: City do not have him as part of their plans for next season and want him to move on. They would prefer a permanent transfer but know there are very few takers, so another loan is most likely after he spent last season with Barcelona.

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Clubs know City do not have much leverage in this situation and that they can afford to haggle, which could mean another loan with no obligation to buy Cancelo at the end of it. Manager Pep Guardiola would not want the Portugal international around his squad if he has no chance of playing, so City will have to agree to something.

What positions/players are they looking at?

As revealed last week, City are looking to do business this summer but are not expecting to have to replace any major names. So there will not be a huge amount of movement.

Bruno Guimaraes is the big target in midfield but City had no intention of triggering the £100million buyout clause in his Newcastle United contract, and so that is a situation that is likely to drag on. City, though, do recognise the need to get somebody in to alleviate the pressure on Rodri. Joshua Kimmich of Bayern Munich and Germany also remains an option.

City are still exploring a move for a right-winger, and they could sign a left-back to replace Sergio Gomez, who is bound for Real Sociedad in Spain. Although given Gomez did not play too much, his replacement may not be a regular first-team contender.

Jeremie Frimpong, a former City academy graduate now at German champions Bayer Leverkusen, is of interest — but that would depend on Kyle Walker’s future and, as with Ederson and De Bruyne, City are not expecting too much to happen on that front.

It was reported on Monday that both City and Tottenham Hotspur are ready to trigger the £60m release clause in Eberechi Eze’s Crystal Palace contract but while City strongly considered signing the player last summer, they are not currently planning a move ahead of the new season.

Which players could be leaving?

Matheus Nunes could move to the Saudi Pro League if interest in him is made concrete, as City would be willing to sell to bring in funds and reduce the number of players competing for midfield places, should reinforcements arrive.

Julian Alvarez has also attracted interest from several clubs, and it is understood he would welcome a move, but there has not been too much movement.

Sam Lee

Manchester United

What has happened this week?

In terms of confirmed ins and out, still nothing yet. The matter of Erik ten Hag’s contract was finally resolved last week though, with United triggering the one-year extension option in his existing deal.

Ruud van Nistelrooy, Rene Hake and Jelle ten Rouwelaar are expected to join Ten Hag’s coaching staff and attended Carrington on Monday, but they did not take part in the first day of training as they are still awaiting work visas and the confirmation of their appointments.

Ten Rouwelaar is expected to join as Ten Hag’s new goalkeeping coach as United finalise a compensation deal with Ajax, who the 43-year-old had agreed to join from Burnley. He will be working with Tom Heaton, who signed a new one-year contract last week to extend his stay for another season as United’s third-choice goalkeeper.

What’s the latest with Zirkzee and De Ligt?

The past week has seen significant progress in the pursuit of Joshua Zirkzee, with United reaching an agreement on personal terms, including a five-year deal, and agent commission for the Bologna forward.

A move for Zirkzee is now close, but United are still weighing up whether to pay the Netherlands international’s €40million release clause or to negotiate and structure a deal differently. The €40m clause must be paid in full if it is triggered, which could be an issue for United from a cash-flow perspective.

More clarity is expected on that front when the club release their results for the third quarter of the financial year, up to the end of March, on Wednesday.

Matthijs de Ligt of Bayern Munich is still the likeliest addition in the centre of defence, despite United’s interest in Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite and Lille’s Leny Yoro. United have made an improved £45million plus £5m in add-ons offer for Branthwaite, but the offer falls far below Everton’s valuation of the England international and is firmly expected to be rejected.

De Ligt is viewed as a replacement for Raphael Varane, who left as a free agent upon the expiry of his contract.

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United remain in club-to-club talks for De Ligt with Bayern, which were initiated last week. Negotiations over the 24-year-old’s personal terms are not expected to provide an obstacle.

The deals for both Zirkzee and De Ligt could accelerate this week if the Netherlands go out of the European Championship after their semi-final against England on Wednesday, with medicals then possible.

Matthijs de Ligt has been at Bayern Munich since 2022 (Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

What positions/players are they looking at?

As mentioned above, United have made an improved offer for Everton centre-back Branthwaite, though it is expected to be rejected.

Despite progress in negotiations for Zirkzee, the 23-year-old might not be the only addition United make to their front line this summer.

With Zirkzee capable of playing as a wide forward as well as a striker — in a similar vein to the outgoing Anthony Martial — there remains scope for United to sign a recognised No 9 to provide support for Rasmus Hojlund.

Club finances mean major sales would need to take place to add another forward, but the prospect has not been totally ruled out given United scored only 58 and 57 Premier League goals in Ten Hag’s two campaigns.

Internally, talks have taken place about Ivan Toney and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who each have one year remaining on their contracts. Both have indicated they will not be signing fresh terms at their clubs and are looking to move.

Brentford are thought to want £60m for Toney, 28, but some believe they might accept a figure closer to £40m. Everton’s financial situation means they are open to selling Calvert-Lewin, 27, this summer rather than risk him leaving for free in 2025. A deal around the £30m mark is viewed as plausible.

Calvert-Lewin’s injury record is a consideration, but United figures have noted he featured in 38 games last season, playing 18 more minutes than Hojlund in the Premier League overall, and scored seven goals.

United are also looking for a left-sided defender who could provide cover for Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw given their injury issues last season, with Tyrell Malacia still working his way back to fitness, too.

Feyenoord’s David Hancko, 26, who can operate at centre-back or full-back, has been considered, but he may prove too expensive for someone likely to be a squad player.

As well as up front and at centre-back, United would ideally like to strengthen in central midfield and are considering Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte, but loan options are also being seriously contemplated.

Which players could be leaving?

Donny van de Beek is closing in on a move to Girona, in an initial €500,000 deal which could rise to a total of €20m with add-ons. Around €5m of those add-ons are viewed as realistically achievable.

Mason Greenwood attended a meeting at Carrington on Monday with members of the United hierarchy to discuss resuming his career away from the club. The 22-year-old did not train and, for now, there is no expectation he will rejoin the first-team squad while the club work on securing a possible exit.

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Marseille and Lazio have submitted firm offers for Greenwood and are in advanced talks. Juventus, Napoli, Benfica and Borussia Dortmund are among the other clubs to express an interest. Valencia also submitted a proposal, which did not meet United’s demands.

United are still open to offers for Jadon Sancho, but nothing is currently advanced with potential suitors. As with Greenwood, a permanent sale, loan or return all remain possible outcomes. Sancho staying would be dependent on an apology to Ten Hag.

Mark Critchley and Laurie Whitwell

Newcastle United

What has happened this week?

Paul Mitchell was announced last week as Newcastle’s sporting director, following a more-than four-month search.

With a compensation package finally agreed with Manchester United to release Dan Ashworth at the end of June, Newcastle were able to appoint a successor. Mitchell, who has held similar positions at Tottenham Hotspur and Monaco, had initially distanced himself when Newcastle reached out in April, but communication was reopened and the 42-year-old’s surprise appointment was confirmed on Thursday.

Despite reports continuing to link Anthony Gordon with an exit, following an enquiry from boyhood club Liverpool earlier in the summer, Newcastle have no interest in selling the 23-year-old England international. Talks over an improved contract may be opened once Gordon returns following his Euro 2024 involvement, with head coach Eddie Howe keen to reassure the forward his ambitions can be achieved on Tyneside.

Newcastle do not want to sell Gordon (Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)

How will Mitchell’s appointment affect plans?

Newcastle believe Mitchell represents a genuine coup and part of his remit includes a greater focus on recruitment than Ashworth had. Whereas Ashworth is renowned for his holistic approach as a sporting director, Mitchell’s background as a former scout appealed to Newcastle and means he can offer specialist support to the recruitment department.

Mitchell will work closely with Steve Nickson, the head of recruitment, and Andy Howe, the assistant head of recruitment — the pair who have identified Newcastle’s list of targets for this summer. Eddie Howe has then confirmed his preferred options.

The hope inside Newcastle earlier this summer was that, once a new sporting director arrived, they would look to act upon a blueprint which had already been determined. Mitchell is set to hold conversations with key members of staff to discuss the plan for the remainder of a window which shuts on August 30.

What positions/players are they looking at?

Their priorities are centre-back, right-winger and another forward, although the latter may depend on whether Callum Wilson leaves. Newcastle are also reassessing their recruitment plans following the PSR deadline fallout at the end of June.

However, Howe is keen to bolster Newcastle’s right wing, with much of their budget expected to be spent on that position. Newcastle retain an interest in Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga, while Noni Madueke of Chelsea and West Ham United’s Jarrod Bowen are among other options to have been discussed.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin had been a target but, after Newcastle failed to agree personal terms with the centre-forward, a deal with Everton collapsed. That transfer will not be revived unless Wilson moves on, and even then Newcastle may look to other options.

Another defender is also needed, given Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles are going to be sidelined for most of 2024 recovering from injuries. Newcastle want a right-sided centre-back who can be a long-term successor for Fabian Schar, who turns 33 in December. AC Milan’s Malick Thiaw, a 22-year-old Germany international who Newcastle have long tracked, has been linked.

The arrivals of Odysseas Vlachodimos and John Ruddy mean the club currently have five senior goalkeepers. Newcastle have not yet followed up with their interest in James Trafford, despite opening talks with Burnley last month. Howe is set to appraise his goalkeepers during pre-season and, with last season’s No 2 Martin Dubravka expected to leave, the recruitment of another player at the position has not been entirely ruled out.

Which players could be leaving?

Newcastle are expected to continue to reduce the average age of their squad, with further senior players to depart, though there is no longer a pressing need to move people out for PSR reasons.

One of Mitchell’s first tasks is to evaluate the player pool, especially the 12 players who are now into the last 12 months of their contracts. Miguel Almiron may leave if a right-winger joins, with Saudi Pro League clubs showing tentative interest in the Paraguayan, while Wilson, Sean Longstaff, Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth are into the final year of their deals and exits have been explored. Nothing is agreed for any of those, however.

Newcastle hope to offload Jamal Lewis and Ryan Fraser, with the latter having agreed a deal with promoted Southampton, though the details must be finalised with his current club. Isaac Hayden is available. If that trio are not sold by the end of the week, some, if not all, may be sent to train with the under-21s when pre-season commences.

Bruno Guimaraes‘ £100million release clause has now expired and Newcastle are keen to keep hold of the Brazil midfielder, while they have no intention of selling Alexander Isak. There is confidence Gordon will stay, despite internal fears that his head has been turned by an awareness of Liverpool’s interest.

Chris Waugh

Tottenham Hotspur

What has happened this week?

Emerson Royal is one of the faces back at Hotspur Way this week for pre-season training but his long-term future is unclear. Spurs are open to selling the 25-year-old but have rejected an offer from AC Milan. The Italian side bid €10million for the defender, which is below Tottenham’s valuation.

Manor Solomon has been involved in pre-season training too. Solomon joined Spurs from Shakhtar Donetsk last year and made six appearances in all competitions before he suffered a knee injury in training in October which ruled him out for the rest of the campaign. The winger had surgery on the meniscus in his right knee in March and will be hoping to build up his fitness in pre-season so he can make a bigger impact during his second year in north London.

Tanguy Ndombele, who left Spurs in June after they agreed to terminate his contract a year early, has joined French side Nice on a contract until 2026.

How does Archie Gray’s signing affect other players’ future?

Gray’s arrival from Leeds United increases the intense competition for places in midfield.

He will fight for one of the three slots in Postecoglou’s 4-3-3 formation with James Maddison, Yves Bissouma, Rodrigo Bentancur, Pape Matar Sarr, Lucas Bergvall and Oliver Skipp. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg is expected to leave and he can concentrate on finding a move after Denmark’s elimination from the Euros.

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Gray is comfortable playing at right-back too which might impact Royal. Pedro Porro is the first choice in that position but because of his quality on the ball, Gray could quickly establish himself as the next best option and free up Royal to leave.

Hojbjerg is expected to leave (Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)

What positions/players are they looking at?

As previously reported by The Athletic, Tottenham have admired Conor Gallagher for a long time.

With the midfielder currently focusing on helping England to reach the final of the Euros, any potential move will have to wait. Other business will depend on who they sell.

Richarlison is attracting interest from the Saudi Pro League and if the Brazilian departs, he would need to be replaced.

Which players could be leaving?

Spurs have shipped out several players this summer including Ryan Sessegnon, Joe Rodon and Ndombele. Sergio Reguilon enjoyed a productive six-month loan spell with Brentford but they cannot afford to sign him on a permanent basis. There has been limited interest in Reguilon from elsewhere so far. Tottenham will try to find a new home for Djed Spence too.

Real Madrid

What has happened this week?

The board have continued to work on the signing of Leny Yoro, which they want to close soon because of the need for centre-backs. Talks have progressed and a fee in the region of €40m plus add-ons could be reached with French club Lille. There is optimism regarding the 18-year-old, which has reached coach Carlo Ancelotti. He currently has only two healthy specialist centre-backs, Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao, plus midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, who can play the position too. David Alaba will need a few more months to recover from his serious knee injury.

Madrid have reached an agreement for the sale of Rafa Marin, a 22-year-old centre-back yet to play for their first team who spent last season on loan to fellow La Liga side Alaves.

Napoli of Italy will pay an initial fee of €11million (£9.3m/$11.9m). If the Naples club pay a further €10m in the coming months, the buy-back options for Madrid will be €50m in 2025 and 2026, then €60m in 2027. If Napoli do not pay that extra €10m, the buyback options will be €25m in 2025 and 2026, and €35m in 2027. The player is in Italy to undergo his medical.

What’s the latest with Dani Ceballos?

The Athletic reported Dani Ceballos is keen to leave this summer. The 27-year-old is not happy with his situation, as the board and Ancelotti are aware. Madrid see his departure as complicated, as they still believe in his potential and it is not easy for a club in Spain, where the midfielder wants to continue to play, to pay a transfer fee or assume his high salary.

Madrid have decided they will not sign a midfielder this summer, whatever happens with Ceballos. If he leaves, he will be replaced in the first-team squad by promoting Mario Martin, 20, or 19-year-old Nico Paz from Real Madrid Castilla, the reserve side who play in the Spanish third division.

Ceballos wants to continue to play in Spain (Diego Souto/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)

What positions/players are they looking at?

In addition to Yoro, there’s also Bayern Munich left-back Alphonso Davies. The 23-year-old has reached the Copa America semi-finals with Canada, who will play against Argentina on Tuesday (early Wednesday in the UK). As The Athletic has previously reported, no significant developments are expected during the tournament.

Bayern told Davies weeks ago they are willing to keep him for another year and try to renew his contract during the season, despite the risk he could leave for free next summer when his current deal expires. There is still contact between the two clubs, and with the Davies camp.

Which players could be leaving?

There are doubts over the future of Fran Garcia. The Athletic reported Andoni Iraola likes him a lot for his Bournemouth side, although no negotiations are underway. Andriy Lunin‘s departure is not ruled out, despite a contract renewal until 2029 being agreed months ago. Jesus Vallejo has returned from another loan spell at Granada, his sixth overall and second to that club. The 27-year-old defender would like to stay with his parent club, but Madrid are not counting on him.

Mario Cortegana Santos

Barcelona

What has happened this week?

The week started with Marc Guiu‘s departure to Chelsea, who paid €6million (£5m; $6.5m) for him. Sources close to the player, who will remain anonymous to protect relationships, told The Athletic that since January, Guiu had received offers from many European clubs.

According to the source, Guiu did not want to leave Barcelona as he had been at the club for years, but he opted for Chelsea because they could offer him a sporting project he would not have at Barca.

Apart from this, the dispute with the two Joaos — Cancelo and Felix — continues.

Barcelona, after making a post on their social networks thanking both for their services subsequently deleted the post. Club sources told The Athletic it was a misunderstanding and they still intend to keep them in the team. A post was then uploaded with both dressed in azulgrana to congratulate them on Portugal’s passage to the quarter-finals of the Euros.

Barcelona want to keep Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix (Josep Lago/AFP via Getty Images)

Hansi Flick also finally arrived in Barcelona for the first time since being appointed as head coach in May. On July 5, he landed to set his new project in motion, meet with sporting director Deco, make player requests and talk to players who are recovering in the gym.

Is there any movement with Ansu Fati and Raphinha?

Ansu Fati is a sensitive case at the club. He’s a young player, who was very exciting four years ago but whose career was cut short by a serious injury.

Fati was on loan at Brighton last season and has returned to Barca with the intention of convincing Flick he should stay. They will give him a chance in pre-season but no longer see him as an untouchable player. He could be part of a player exchange package with another club and, if a good offer comes in, Barca would let him go.

Being a La Masia player, Fati has more credit than other players but both sides are aware that a sale could happen. Some Catalan media reported Sevilla’s interest in Fati, but the Andalusian club has denied this to The Athletic.

Ansu Fati was on loan at Brighton last season (Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)

As for Raphinha, the club has always seen him as a player to cash in on. He is one of the most marketable players and his natural position — right-winger — is occupied by Lamine Yamal. However, his impressive attitude and performances towards the end of the season have changed the opinion of the board and Deco, and the idea is to keep him.

They see him as a competitive and versatile player who was able to accept Yamal’s breakthrough with sportsmanship. However, if an offer of €60million or more comes in, the club will sell him.

What positions/players are they looking at?

Laporta has reiterated the club is looking for a “wide” striker, i.e. a left-winger, and continue to search for a defensive pivot who can make up for the absence of Sergio Busquets.

As far as left-wingers are concerned, there is still interest in Nico Williams. The player has said he will not think about anything until the end of the Euros. His release clause is in the region of €55million ($59m; £47m).

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Laporta was asked by Catalunya Radio on Monday whether the club could afford such a signing. “I like Nico a lot,” he said. “Here we have to let those who have that responsibility work. Deco is working to make the additions that Hansi Flick has asked for and I hope we get good news.

“Financially today, we can afford a signing like Nico Williams. We could afford such a signing thanks to the work we have been doing for the last three years”.

This claim differs from what sources close to other negotiations at the club have said.

Which players could be leaving?

The transfer of Mika Faye to Porto has stalled due to the financial situation of the Portuguese club but the idea is it will still go ahead. Clement Lenglet is out of favour and the club is looking for an exit for him. Oriol Romeu is also expected to find a new club, which could be Girona, the team that sold him to Barca just a year ago.

Laia Cervello Herrero

(Photos: Getty Images; design: Eamonn Dalton)