The summer transfer window is open! Transfer Talk brings you all the latest on rumours, comings and goings and, of course, done deals!
MAIN STORY: Arsenal eye Williams and Merino
Arsenal are targeting two LALIGA stars in the hope of mounting another Premier League title challenge, according to the Standard.
Athletic Club winger Nico Williams Williams is said to be on the Gunners' shortlist as manager Mikel Arteta looks to improve his forward line and the 22-year-old is seen as an ideal option. Williams was a standout performer for Spain at the Euros, although the Emirates Stadium hierarchy could face competition for his signature from Barcelona. It is thought a move for Williams would increase the likelihood of a move to the club. Eddie Nketiah being transferred amid interest from Ligue 1 side Marseille.
Arsenal are also believed to be on the lookout for a defensive midfielder, having identified Real Sociedad as their stronghold. Mikel Merino as a possible reinforcement. Merino, 28, is another player who has also been on Barcelona's radar, and recent reports have indicated that a release clause in his contract could be activated for €60 million.
The two Spain internationals could be next in line for a possible move to north London after Fabrizio Romano reported on Wednesday that an agreement had been reached with the Bologna defender. Ricardo Calafiori had been completed, and the 22-year-old will join Arteta's team imminently.
PAPER GOSSIP
– Manchester United have drawn up a shortlist of three players to sign a left-back, according to the Mirror. Feyenoord David Hancko26 years old and star of Crystal Palace Tyrick Mitchell24 is reported to be two the Red Devils could approach for, but they are also open to a potential move for Marcos Alonsowho is available on a free transfer after his contract with Barcelona expired last month.
– Talks continue between Aston Villa and Atletico Madrid over a deal for the striker Juan FelixFabrizio Romano reports. The 24-year-old is considered a “dream signing” for Villa boss Unai Emery, although the Premier League side acknowledge a move could be difficult. Felix was on loan at Barcelona last season, where he contributed to 10 goals in 30 LALIGA games.
– Negotiations between Napoli and Chelsea over the transfer of the striker Romelu Lukaku According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the Serie A club are interested in signing the 31-year-old and are willing to make an offer of €25m plus bonuses, but the Blues are currently demanding €35m. Lukaku is seen as the perfect signing for new manager Antonio Conte, while the striker Victor Osimhen He continues to be linked with a possible exit from the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.
– Al Ittihad are interested in signing the Real Madrid centre-back Antonio Rudigeraccording to El Chiringuito TV. The Saudi Pro League side are believed to have considered the 31-year-old as a priority transfer option for this summer, and are ready to tempt him into making the switch there with a salary offer of €13m per season. Rudiger played a pivotal role in The whites in the last campaign, playing 48 matches in all competitions.
