EPL Transfer News: Arsenal, Robertson, Mikautadze and More
Arsenal Prioritise Defence as Cristhian Mosquera Becomes a Key Target
Arsenal supporters have long been calling for a new striker, but the club’s transfer strategy this summer is also heavily focused on strengthening the defence. Reports from The Athletic reveal that signing a centre-back is a “priority” for the Gunners.
Among the Premier League’s ‘Big Six’, Arsenal remain the only club yet to make a signing in the current window. Meanwhile, rivals Liverpool and Manchester City have already secured eight players combined.
Although no progress has been made on securing a top-class No. 9 to lead the front line, Arsenal are said to be actively working on a deal for Valencia centre-back Cristhian Mosquera. The 20-year-old is viewed as an ideal rotational option behind regulars William Saliba and Gabriel, an area where Arsenal lacked sufficient depth last season.
Having spent nearly a decade with Valencia, Mosquera has already racked up 70 La Liga starts across the last two seasons (2023–24 and 2024–25). While born in Spain, the defender has Colombian heritage, making him eligible for both nations, though he has only represented Spain at youth levels up to Under-21.
Atlético Madrid Shift Focus from Robertson to Ruggeri
Liverpool full-back Andy Robertson was linked with a potential move to La Liga giants Atlético Madrid earlier this month. Reports initially suggested the Scottish international was “keen to leave” Anfield, despite previously expressing a desire to remain at the top level.
However, Robertson’s prospects have changed with the arrival of Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth. The 21-year-old new signing described Liverpool as the “biggest club in England,” effectively pushing Robertson down the pecking order.
Now, according to ESPN, Atlético Madrid have dropped their pursuit of Robertson, turning instead to Atalanta full-back Matteo Ruggeri. The 22-year-old Italian has made over 100 appearances for the Bergamo-based club and is seen as a long-term investment.
Despite his experience and decorated career, Robertson may now find his options limited. The same ESPN report even claims that a deal had been agreed between Robertson and Atlético, highlighting the Scot’s openness to a move abroad.
Manchester United Reject Inter’s Swap Deal for Højlund
Manchester United have reportedly turned down a proposal from Inter Milan to swap Mehdi Taremi for their young forward Rasmus Højlund. As per United In Focus, the Red Devils are not entertaining any part-exchange deals and are only interested in permanent, cash-only offers.
Gyökeres Signals Intent to Join Manchester United
TEAMtalk reports that Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres has directly informed Manchester United of his intent to join the club during the summer window. However, the Premier League side may need to offload players first before making a formal bid, with Bryan Mbeumo’s arrival nearing completion.
Man Utd Eye Ambitious Move for PSG’s Warren Zaïre-Emery
TEAMtalk also mentions that Manchester United have identified Warren Zaïre-Emery of Paris Saint-Germain as an ambitious transfer target. However, PSG have placed a hefty £85.3 million valuation on the 19-year-old midfield prodigy.
Ibrahima Konaté Offered to Spanish Giants Amid Contract Talks
Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konaté is reportedly looking to leave as he nears the final year of his contract. Foot Mercato claims that the French defender has been offered to European powerhouses including Barcelona, PSG, and Real Madrid — with the latter believed to be his preferred destination.
Arsenal Also Target Inter Midfielder Carlos Augusto
FCInterNews reports that Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is pursuing a deal for Inter Milan midfielder Carlos Augusto. Berta, who previously tracked the player during his stint at Atlético Madrid, appears to have maintained his interest and is now pushing for a move to the Emirates.
West Ham Chase Chelsea’s Robert Sánchez After Ramsdale Snub
West Ham United are looking to bring in Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez after failing in their efforts to sign Southampton’s Aaron Ramsdale, according to Football Insider. The Hammers are now turning their attention to Sánchez as they bolster their goalkeeping department.
Spurs Join Race for Mikautadze Amid Lyon Relegation
Tottenham Hotspur are eyeing Lyon striker Georges Mikautadze following the French club’s relegation to Ligue 1. As reported by TuttoJuve, Juventus are also keeping tabs on the Georgian international, setting up a potential transfer battle between the two European giants.
Newcastle United Make Move for Marcus Rashford
Newcastle United are reportedly making a push to sign Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, per CaughtOffside. Despite interest from the Magpies, Rashford is said to favour a move to Barcelona — although such a switch may not materialise.
Chelsea’s Raheem Sterling in Talks with Beşiktaş
According to Turkish-Football, Beşiktaş have held preliminary discussions with Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling over a potential transfer. Initial contact between both parties has been positive, and the 30-year-old has not ruled out the prospect of moving to Turkey after returning from a loan spell at Arsenal.
Tottenham Refuse to Budge on Romero Valuation
Despite pressure from Atlético Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur are unwilling to lower their asking price for centre-back Cristian Romero. As per The Telegraph, Spurs value the Argentine international at over £60 million and remain firm in negotiations.
Aston Villa Target Galatasaray Midfielder Gabriel Sara
Foot Mercato also reports that Aston Villa are interested in Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara. The potential move is believed to be unrelated to the Turkish club’s interest in Aston Villa stars Emiliano Martínez and Lucas Digne, both of whom remain targets for Galatasaray.