Transfer market in overdrive as clubs chase late deals ahead of season
Even with the big Premier League kick-off looming—Liverpool welcoming Bournemouth—the transfer rollercoaster shows no signs of slowing. Here’s a look at the latest bubbling chatter across the top flight.
Manchester United’s pursuit of Brighton’s Carlos Baleba has become one of the summer’s enduring sagas. In a twist, United may decide Baleba isn’t the right fit after all and would instead target Morten Hjulmand, the anchorman who previously played for Sporting Club alongside Ruben Amorim. If United switch targets, Hjulmand would reportedly cost around £50 million, about half of Brighton’s asking price for Baleba.
If Hjulmand arrives, it’s unlikely he’ll line up alongside fellow Dane Rasmus Højlund, who is linked with a move to Milan or Fulham. United’s plans come amid broader activity elsewhere as Fulham—who have signed little so far—are now active in the market and reportedly pursuing other targets, with Richarlison also being linked as a potential option after his stint with Tottenham in the Super Cup final. United are also hopeful of cashing in on Alejandro Garnacho, while Chelsea eye additions to their wide-man stocks.
Donnarumma won’t be moving to United, amid high wage demands, with Manchester City now appearing to lead the chase for the goalkeeper. Meanwhile, Toby Collyer, who saw minutes last season, is expected to be loaned out to West Brom.
The Richarlison funds are expected to fuel Tottenham’s pursuit of Eberechi Eze, should Arsenal decide not to meet Crystal Palace’s asking price for the England international. Tottenham are also eyeing Savinho as Daniel Levy enters the final stretch of the window. City reportedly would rather move on from the Brazilian they once parked at Girona before his parent-club move, while Arsenal have begun offloading mode and are open to offers for Oleksandr Zinchenko, with Porto, Fenerbahce and Real Betis among the clubs reportedly in the mix.
In another development, Sverre Nypan could be headed for a loan spell. The 17-year-old Norwegian talent has drawn online praise, described as “an escape valve” with clever dribbling and a knack for finding interstitial spaces. That potential move could see him spend time with Middlesbrough.
Brighton, meanwhile, are preparing to loan out Facundo Buonanotte for the season. The 20-year-old Argentina winger impressed at times last year, offering a glimpse of potential, with Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen among the clubs showing interest.
What this could mean for the season is clear: the window remains a living, breathing story across major clubs as they balance wage demands, price tags, and squad depth. Fans can anticipate more late twists as clubs chase last-minute targets before the window closes, with several high-profile moves still in play and other players potentially shifting on loan or a permanent basis.
Summary and outlook
– United weighing Baleba versus Hjulmand amid questions over price and fit.
– Hojlund’s future remains unsettled with Milan or Fulham among the linked destinations.
– City appear poised to sign a top-choice goalkeeper if Donnarumma doesn’t come to terms with United.
– Richarlison could fuel Spurs’ bid for Eze, while Savinho remains on Tottenham’s radar.
– Arsenal looking to move on players like Zinchenko to fund new moves.
– Loans for young talents like Sverre Nypan and Facundo Buonanotte signal ongoing strategy to balance development with first-team needs.
A hopeful note: the late surge of activity suggests clubs are determined to refresh squads and respond to the evolving market, which could lead to some exciting signings and fresh tactical options for the new season.