EPL Transfer News: Palhinha, Garnacho, Aston Villa and More
João Palhinha Secures Loan Switch from Bayern Munich to Tottenham Hotspur
João Palhinha has officially joined Tottenham Hotspur on loan from Bayern Munich, as confirmed by both clubs. According to The Athletic, the Portuguese midfielder was due to undergo his medical in Germany on Friday to complete the move. Transfer insider Florian Plettenberg revealed that Spurs will pay Palhinha’s wages in full, alongside an initial £4.3 million loan fee.
There is also a buy option included, allowing Tottenham to sign Palhinha permanently for £25.9 million at the end of the season. Plettenberg further reported that Palhinha is targeting his debut in a pre-season friendly against his parent club Bayern Munich on 7 August in Germany.
This makes Palhinha the second Bayern Munich player to arrive at Tottenham this summer. Spurs have already made Mathys Tel’s transfer permanent following his loan spell in January. The club also added West Ham United star Mohamed Kudus to bolster their midfield options.
AC Milan Eye Liverpool’s Darwin Núñez Amid Growing Transfer Rumours
Reports from Italy suggest that AC Milan are the latest club vying for Liverpool striker Darwin Núñez. The Uruguayan forward is widely expected to depart Anfield this summer after struggling to impress under new manager Arne Slot. Núñez started just 17 matches across all competitions last season, fewer than even Liverpool’s second-choice goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher.
Núñez accumulated more yellow cards (nine) than goals (seven) or assists (five) during the campaign. While he has reportedly held discussions with Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, Sky Italia now claim that Milan have also spoken to the 26-year-old and intend to make a “serious attempt” to sign him.
Liverpool are prepared to make a loss on their former club-record signing, who could eventually cost £85 million if all bonuses are met. A price tag of £43 million has been proposed, but that valuation previously deterred Napoli and could prove prohibitive for Milan.
Milan, who finished eighth in Serie A and lost the Coppa Italia final to Bologna, are undergoing a period of transition. With Sérgio Conceição replaced by Massimiliano Allegri and Luka Modrić joining the ranks, Milan’s lack of European football means they must tread carefully on the financial front.
Chelsea Sign Ajax Starlet Jorrel Hato in £38.5 Million Deal
Chelsea have officially landed Ajax defender Jorrel Hato on a long-term contract lasting until 2032. The deal marks another significant move by the Blues this summer. The 19-year-old Dutchman expressed his excitement at joining the Premier League giants, calling it “the best place” to take the next step in his career.
Hato’s arrival strengthens Enzo Maresca’s defensive ranks ahead of his second season at Stamford Bridge. A primarily left-sided defender, Hato made 46 appearances for Ajax last season as they finished runners-up to PSV Eindhoven and exited the UEFA Europa League in the round of 16 against Eintracht Frankfurt.
Chelsea’s spending spree continues to grow, with other notable additions including João Pedro, Jamie Gittens and Liam Delap. The club’s total expenditure has now surpassed £244 million, eclipsing last year’s budget with plenty of time still left in the window.
Tottenham Star Heung-Min Son Poised for Record-Breaking MLS Move to LAFC
According to GiveMeSport reporters Tom Bogert and Ben Jacobs, LAFC have reached an agreement with Tottenham Hotspur over the transfer of South Korean icon Heung-Min Son. The proposed fee stands at £20.3 million, which would make Son the most expensive incoming player in MLS history.
If the deal is finalised, Son would surpass Atlanta United’s £16.6 million acquisition of Emmanuel Latte Lath. Even a slightly reduced fee of £15 million would still place him second ahead of Kévin Denkey’s £12.6 million move to FC Cincinnati.
LAFC officials reportedly travelled to South Korea to continue negotiations with Son and Spurs, ahead of what is likely to be his final match for the club — a pre-season clash against Newcastle United at Seoul’s World Cup Stadium.
Tyrique George Seeks Chelsea Exit Amidst Squad Competition
Chelsea youngster Tyrique George is eyeing a move away from Stamford Bridge this summer, citing concerns over game time. The 19-year-old forward is facing stiff competition following the arrivals of João Pedro, Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens and Estêvão.
Even with Noni Madueke’s departure, George must still contend with attacking rivals such as Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto. Despite playing a part in Chelsea’s successful UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup campaigns, George wants more consistent minutes, as revealed by Fabrizio Romano.
German sides RB Leipzig and Borussia Mönchengladbach are among the clubs interested in securing his services. While it remains unclear whether the move will be permanent or a loan, Chelsea are open to negotiations but would prefer to retain the player.
Mourinho Wants Alejandro Garnacho
Fenerbahçe, managed by José Mourinho, have reportedly shown interest in Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho. Turkish outlet Milliyet report that the club is weighing up a £39.1 million bid.
Blues Consider Pricey Deal for Rogers
Chelsea are said to be targeting Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers, according to Football Insider. However, the 21-year-old England international could command a fee of more than £80 million.
Veiga to Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabian clubs are reigniting interest in Chelsea defender Renato Veiga after his proposed move to Atlético Madrid collapsed late in negotiations, reports Ben Jacobs.
Spurs to Bring in Man City Reject
In light of James Maddison’s serious pre-season injury, Tottenham are considering a move for Manchester City’s Jack Grealish, claim Sports Mole.
United Get New Keeper
Manchester United’s search for a new goalkeeper has led them to Botafogo’s John Victor. CaughtOffside reports that United are willing to trigger his release clause, although West Ham and Everton are also in pursuit of the 29-year-old Brazilian.
Wissa to Leave Brentford?
Brentford have changed their stance on Yoane Wissa and are now open to selling the Congolese forward for the right price. Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are both monitoring the situation, according to Ben Jacobs.
Aston Villa Make Offer for Barcelona Fullback Hector Fort
According to El Nacional, Aston Villa are prepared to offer as much as £13 million for Barcelona fullback Hector Fort. The 20-year-old Spaniard has also attracted interest from Paris FC during this transfer window.
Chelsea Fail in Swap Attempt for Fermín López
Mundo Deportivo have reported that Chelsea failed in their attempt to engineer a swap deal involving midfielder Christopher Nkunku in exchange for Barcelona’s Fermín López. While Manchester United are also said to be interested in López, the Spanish midfielder remains a key part of new manager Hansi Flick’s plans at Camp Nou.