EPL Transfer News: Trafford, Chelsea, Palhinha and More

Manchester City Re-Sign James Trafford

Manchester City have re-acquired goalkeeper James Trafford from Burnley, bringing back their former academy star ahead of the new season. Trafford, who will wear the No.1 shirt, returns on a five-year contract until June 2030.

Initially sold to Burnley in 2023, the deal included a £40 million buy-back clause. However, City secured his return for a lower fee—£27 million—matching a bid from Newcastle.

Trafford played a key role under Vincent Kompany at Turf Moor, achieving 29 clean sheets in 45 Championship games and setting a record of 12 consecutive clean sheets. His performances helped Burnley gain promotion to the Premier League.

In the club’s announcement, Trafford shared his emotions: “Rejoining City is such a special and proud moment both for me and my family… This is the place I call home. It’s a truly special football club with fantastic people who make it such a unique place to work and play.”

Chelsea to Secure Marc Cucurella’s Future

Chelsea are reportedly taking steps to tie down Marc Cucurella with a new contract amid interest from Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr.

The Spanish left-back played more minutes than any other Chelsea player last season, contributing to their Champions League qualification, UEFA Conference League, and FIFA Club World Cup triumphs. This is a sharp contrast to his early struggles following a £63 million move from Brighton & Hove Albion.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea view Cucurella as a “key part of the long-term project” in west London. While Al Nassr’s interest is unconfirmed, Chelsea appear determined to retain the defender.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are close to signing Jorrel Hato from Ajax. The Dutch teenager is expected to serve as both Cucurella’s backup and a central defensive option.

João Félix Completes Al Nassr Move

Portuguese forward João Félix has officially left Chelsea for Al Nassr on a permanent transfer. Félix had hoped to return to Benfica, but the Portuguese club could not meet Chelsea’s valuation.

Instead, Al Nassr capitalised on the situation, reportedly with the approval of Cristiano Ronaldo, and secured Félix for an initial £26.1 million, with add-ons of £17.4 million expected.

The 25-year-old has already been seen in training with his new team.

Arsenal May Part Ways with Leandro Trossard

Leandro Trossard is assessing his future at Arsenal as the club considers offers for the Belgian winger. Although not a starter in Mikel Arteta’s preferred XI, Trossard made 56 appearances last season, contributing 20 goals and assists.

The Athletic reports that Arsenal are monitoring options to sign a new wide forward—possibly Eberechi Eze—which could prompt the sale of Trossard or Gabriel Martinelli. Contract talks with Trossard, focused on a pay rise, have stalled.

Trossard is reportedly keen to “see what opportunities the market brings,” while Arsenal are eager to resolve the situation, especially after turning down a bid from Al Ittihad last September.

Manchester United Drop Sancho Price

Manchester United are prepared to sell Jadon Sancho for just £15 million, according to the Daily Mail. Interest is building from Juventus and Borussia Dortmund, Sancho’s former club.

Juventus Target Liverpool’s Darwin Núñez

Reports from Fichajes indicate Juventus have identified Darwin Núñez as a potential target. Liverpool are demanding £56.4 million, though they may consider a loan deal with a buy option.

Arsenal Remain in Talks for Eberechi Eze

Fabrizio Romano confirms that Arsenal are still in communication with Crystal Palace for midfielder Eberechi Eze. However, The Athletic notes Arsenal are hesitant to meet his £60 million release clause.

Chelsea’s Nkunku Attracts Interest from RB Leipzig

RB Leipzig are keen to bring Christopher Nkunku back from Chelsea, according to The Chelsea Chronicle. The Blues, meanwhile, are progressing in their pursuit of Xavi Simons, while Bayern Munich remain interested in Nkunku despite securing Luis Díaz.

Man Utd End Interest in Emiliano Martínez

Manchester United have reportedly dropped their pursuit of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, per The Athletic. United failed with a loan offer, while Villa insist on a permanent sale.

Manchester City Reject Forest Bid for James McAtee

Sky Sports News reports that Nottingham Forest have had a £25 million bid for James McAtee turned down. Manchester City are willing to sell but want a higher fee.

Barcelona Eye Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson

According to CaughtOffside, Barcelona are leading the race to sign Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea. The Blues are asking for £43.4 million, but Barça prefer a loan with an option to buy.

Tottenham Plan Bid for João Palhinha

Following discussions with Bayern Munich, Tottenham Hotspur are now preparing a £45 million offer for João Palhinha, reports Sébastien Vidal.

Young Parma Defender Draws Liga Primer Attention

Giovanni Leoni, the 18-year-old Parma centre back, has attracted interest from Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Tottenham, according to Corriere dello Sport. The Italian club value the player at £30.4 million.

Aston Villa Push for Barış Alper Yılmaz

Aston Villa continue negotiations for Barış Alper Yılmaz of Galatasaray, reports Fotospor. However, Villa’s latest bid still falls short of the £34.7 million valuation.

Liverpool Pursue Ronald Araújo

Liverpool are in talks with Barcelona president Joan Laporta over a move for Ronald Araújo. The Merseyside club are willing to pay over £34.7 million for the Uruguayan defender, seen as the long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk.

Barcelona reportedly favour selling to Liverpool rather than to Real Madrid, who are also interested in Araújo.