EPL Transfer News: Gyokeres, Man United, Villa and More

As the summer transfer window gathers pace, major Premier League clubs are busy finalising deals or making strategic moves in the market. From failed bids to confirmed signings, here is a complete breakdown of the latest developments.

Arsenal’s Pursuit of Viktor Gyökeres: Talks Ongoing Despite Rejected Offer

Arsenal have submitted a formal offer to sign Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres, but the bid was rejected by the Portuguese champions. Despite this, both clubs are reportedly “close” to reaching a transfer agreement.

Gyökeres, who netted an astonishing 54 goals last season, has become one of the most sought-after forwards in European football. Sporting, however, have remained firm on their valuation and are determined to control the negotiations on their terms.

Reports have emerged suggesting Gyökeres might consider refusing to train during pre-season to force a move, though this situation could soon be resolved. While Sporting are not insisting on the full £86.4 million release clause, rumours of a possible sale at £51.8 million are inaccurate.

Instead, the agreed price is £69.1 million, but Arsenal’s current bid—comprised of £56.2 million in guaranteed funds and £13 million in add-ons—was turned down due to its structure. Sporting are holding out for £60.5 million in guaranteed money.

Despite this, negotiations are progressing in “constructive dialogue”, and the transfer saga may soon reach its conclusion.

Tottenham Secure Signing of Japan’s Kota Takai

Tottenham Hotspur have officially signed 20-year-old Japanese defender Kota Takai from Kawasaki Frontale. The promising centre-back becomes the second acquisition under new manager Thomas Frank.

Earlier in the window, Spurs completed a discounted deal for Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich. The club successfully negotiated the price down after Tel impressed on loan during the latter half of last season.

Takai, now the first new arrival of the Frank era, has committed to a five-year contract and is expected to play a role in the senior squad. According to BBC Sport, Spurs paid £5 million for the talented youngster, who already has four caps for Japan and was named the J.League’s best young player in 2024.

A towering presence in defence with experience on the right side, Takai joins a reshaped Spurs backline that also includes Kevin Danso, whose permanent deal was recently confirmed.

Manchester United Open Talks for Atalanta’s Ederson

Manchester United have initiated discussions with Serie A side Atalanta over the potential signing of Brazilian midfielder Ederson. According to GOAL, the player has a price tag of £51.7 million, as confirmed by FourFourTwo.

With midfield reinforcements high on Ruben Amorim’s agenda, Ederson could be a strategic addition to United’s core this summer.

Arsenal Face Competition in Race for Eberechi Eze

Arsenal are exploring a creative payment solution to land Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze without needing to sell players first, The Independent reports. Eze is reportedly keen on a move to the Emirates, though Liverpool are also considering a formal bid.

In a further twist, Bayern Munich have entered the fray, and The Times notes that Tottenham Hotspur are monitoring Eze’s situation closely.

Nico González Eyes Barcelona Return

Manchester City midfielder Nico González is contemplating an exit after falling out of favour under Pep Guardiola. According to El Nacional, González is eager to return to his boyhood club, Barcelona, potentially signalling a homecoming for the young Spaniard.

Arsenal Lead the Chase for Rodrigo Mora

Scouts from both Arsenal and Manchester City were in attendance at the Club World Cup to watch 18-year-old Porto talent Rodrigo Mora, FootballTransfers reveals. Arsenal are currently considered favourites to secure the midfielder’s signature, though Manchester United are also showing interest.

Inter Milan Lead Race for Quinten Timber

Feyenoord’s Quinten Timber, the younger brother of Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber, is attracting interest from Manchester United and Newcastle United. However, TEAMtalk reports that Inter Milan are in pole position to land the midfielder.

Osimhen’s Representatives Urge Man Utd and Liverpool to Act

Victor Osimhen’s representatives have contacted both Manchester United and Liverpool, warning that they must submit formal offers immediately if they intend to sign the Napoli forward. According to TBR Football, Osimhen is willing to entertain a permanent move to Galatasaray should no concrete bids arrive.

Liverpool Set Asking Price for Darwin Núñez

Gianluca Di Marzio reports that Liverpool are ready to offload Darwin Núñez for £43.2 million, with a potential £4.3 million in add-ons. This valuation may be too steep for AC Milan, who are instead exploring alternative options like Nicolas Jackson of Chelsea and Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace, as per Matteo Moretto.

Aston Villa Target Douglas Luiz; McGinn Off-Limits

Aston Villa have reportedly approached Juventus regarding a possible return for midfielder Douglas Luiz, Tuttosport writes. The Brazilian previously impressed at Villa Park and could now be on course for a reunion.

Meanwhile, manager Unai Emery has declared that club captain John McGinn is not for sale. According to BBC Sport, Villa have dismissed interest from Everton for the Scottish international.

Rashford Will Wait for Barcelona Move

El Nacional reports that Marcus Rashford has given assurances to Barcelona that he will wait until the end of the transfer window to secure a move to Camp Nou. The Manchester United forward has already rejected proposals from other Premier League sides and from Saudi Arabia.

Arsenal Offer William Saliba New Deal Amid Madrid Interest

Arsenal have proposed a lucrative contract extension to centre-back William Saliba. However, French outlet Le10Sport states that the player remains undecided. With interest from Real Madrid looming, Saliba is well aware that signing a new contract would likely rule out a future move to the Santiago Bernabéu.