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Transfer sagas look simple from the outside. A player likes one club, another club pays more, and years later somebody who sat in the room explains how the last 48 hours actually went.

Those explanations tend to arrive long after the photos have been taken. By then the fee is fixed in the memory and the preference of the footballer is treated as a footnote.

January windows are especially blunt. Clubs decide whether they will match a bid, and the selling side rarely waits for sentiment to catch up with the numbers.

Shakhtar Donetsk director of football Darijo Srna has now said Mykhailo Mudryk preferred Arsenal to Chelsea before his move in January 2023. The Gunners and the Blues both chased the Ukraine winger that month.

Chelsea won when they agreed a package that could rise to £88million, including about £26million in performance-related add-ons. Srna handled talks with Chelsea while general director Serhiy Palkin dealt with Arsenal.

“Misha talked to Arteta. I talked to the Chelsea coach. And, probably, at that moment he liked Arteta more,” Srna said.

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That matches what was visible at the time. Mudryk had spoken warmly about Arsenal and Mikel Arteta and posted in a way that made north London look like the destination.

Srna said the club still had the final word. “But it is the club that decides whether to sell a player or not. We told him that the club has found a common language with Chelsea.

“And then you decide for yourself: do you want to move or not? Either you go to Chelsea, or Arsenal offers the same conditions, or you stay at Shakhtar.”

On the money, he was blunt. “Chelsea generally made a much better offer to Shakhtar than Arsenal. We can discuss it, but we cannot accept a worse offer than the one we have.”

Arsenal chose not to match it. Arteta later spoke about discipline and staying consistent with what the club could do at that moment.

Mudryk went to Stamford Bridge instead. He made 73 appearances for Chelsea before a long absence, had anti-doping proceedings resolved in the summer of 2026 and joined Tottenham on loan on deadline day.

The new comments do not rewrite the fee. They only confirm what many suspected in 2023: the player leaned towards Arteta, and Shakhtar leaned towards Chelsea’s offer.

For Arsenal it is an old sliding-doors story with a clear ending. They liked the winger, they would not pay what Shakhtar wanted, and the club that did pay got the deal.

In the end the Gunners signed Leandro Trossard who became a Premier League champion.

Attacking overhauls in the final days of the window often involve players moving in opposite directions. Agreements in principle still need medicals and personal terms before they become official. Forwards who asked to leave one club can find a route back to a former home.

Clubs that miss out on one target sometimes pivot quickly to another. Senegal internationals with Premier League minutes remain in demand across north London and beyond. Separate deals that happen to run in parallel still change both squads at once.

Tottenham Hotspur have reached an agreement in principle to sign Iliman Ndiaye from Everton, with Richarlison heading back to the Merseyside club. The two moves are separate and not linked, according to sources, and remain subject to personal terms and medicals.

Ndiaye joined Everton from Marseille in 2024 for £15million and has scored 17 goals in 73 games. He declined multiple new contract offers last season and started Everton’s first three matches of this campaign.

Richarlison is returning to the club he left for Spurs in 2022 in a deal worth up to £60million. The Brazilian has scored 32 goals in 134 appearances for Tottenham. Roberto De Zerbi left him out of the squad for Saturday’s defeat at Newcastle after the player asked to leave.

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Manchester City had shown interest in Ndiaye as part of talks that also involved Jack Grealish, but City are now focused on Cody Gakpo. Tottenham had also looked at Gakpo before turning to the Everton forward.

Ndiaye has previously been linked with Arsenal as the Gunners assessed attacking options. Any serious pursuit from north London now looks to have been overtaken by Tottenham’s agreement.

Spurs have already added several attackers this summer. Ndiaye would offer proven wide quality alongside new arrivals such as Omar Marmoush and Savio. Richarlison’s return to Everton closes a four-year spell that was badly affected by injuries.

Arsenal’s own late attacking search continues after Julian Alvarez made clear he does not want to join. Supporters will note another name coming off the market. Formal announcements for both Everton and Tottenham deals are expected once medicals are complete.

The window closes on Tuesday night. Ndiaye’s next destination now appears to be Tottenham unless the remaining formalities collapse.

Arsenal have reportedly missed out on Cristian Romero after the Tottenham defender decided to join Atlético Madrid.

According to reports from Argentina, Romero has thanked Barcelona, Inter Milan and Arsenal for their interest before choosing Atlético as his preferred destination following his departure from Tottenham.

Diego Simeone’s persistence is understood to have played a major role in the decision, with the Atlético Madrid manager having pushed for Romero’s arrival across the last three transfer windows.

The Spanish club are now working to complete an agreement for the Argentina international, with talks expected to intensify this afternoon.

Only minor details are reportedly left to resolve before the deal can be completed, with Atlético hoping to have Romero arrive in Madrid between Wednesday and Thursday.

For Arsenal, the development represents a blow in their search for another centre-back.

The Gunners have been looking at options to strengthen their defensive depth this summer and Romero had emerged as one of the players attracting interest.

Arsenal’s interest was particularly notable given the defender’s Premier League experience, having spent several seasons with Tottenham before his expected departure from north London.

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Romero has established himself as one of the leading defenders in the Premier League and has also played a key role for Argentina at international level.

His availability following his Tottenham exit therefore made him an attractive option for clubs looking to strengthen at the back.

However, Atlético appear to have won the race for his signature.

Simeone’s long-standing pursuit has ultimately proved decisive, with Romero reportedly choosing the Spanish side despite interest from several major European clubs.

The report claims the defender has already made his decision, leaving Arsenal to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements.

The Gunners have continued to assess the market for a centre-back as Mikel Arteta looks to build greater depth across his squad ahead of another demanding campaign.

Romero’s decision means one of the more high-profile options on their radar now appears to be off the table.

For Atlético, meanwhile, the potential signing would represent a major statement as they look to strengthen their squad with an established Argentina international.

Talks between all parties are expected to continue, with the final details of the agreement now being worked on.

If everything proceeds as planned, Romero could arrive in Madrid as soon as Wednesday or Thursday.

Arsenal will now have to turn their attention elsewhere as they continue their search for defensive reinforcements.

Defenders who have won major international trophies remain high-value targets when domestic opportunities arise. Interest from multiple European clubs creates competition and can accelerate decisions. Rivalries between neighbouring Premier League sides often complicate potential transfers.

Centre-backs capable of immediate impact provide cover when key players are sidelined for extended periods. Clubs that have already strengthened elsewhere still assess defensive depth. Statements of genuine interest keep the player’s future under discussion.

Arsenal have real interest in signing Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero this summer. The 28-year-old Argentina international, a 2022 World Cup winner, has been linked with a move away from north London as several clubs monitor the situation.

Atletico Madrid are currently the most active side in the race according to reports, having already sanctioned departures and possessing the finances to complete a deal. Inter Milan also hold interest and are understood to have an arrangement in place with Tottenham, though agreement with the player remains outstanding.

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Arsenal’s interest is driven in part by the extended absence of William Saliba, who is recovering from a back injury. The Gunners already possess a strong defensive unit but are looking to add further quality and depth. Romero’s Premier League experience and leadership qualities would allow him to make an immediate contribution.

Any potential deal faces significant obstacles. The longstanding rivalry between Arsenal and Tottenham means the latter would be reluctant to sell directly to their neighbours. Romero is well settled in the Premier League and would need to be convinced that a move to the champions offers the right platform for his ambitions.

Supporters will note the links with caution given the historical difficulties of transfers between the two clubs. Further updates will depend on whether Arsenal formalise their interest and how Tottenham respond to approaches from abroad. The defender’s future remains unresolved as the window continues.

Arsenal continue to assess their options at the back while progressing other business. Romero represents a high-quality addition if the complicated circumstances can be navigated. The coming days will clarify whether the interest develops into a concrete pursuit.

Arsenal are reportedly among the Premier League clubs closely monitoring Hugo Camberos, with the Chivas winger continuing to attract attention following another impressive performance for Mexico’s Under-20 side.

According to TUDN, scouts representing both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur were present at the Cuauhtémoc Stadium to watch Mexico’s Under-20 World Cup qualifying match against Guatemala.

The two Premier League clubs are said to be following Camberos closely as they assess one of Mexico’s brightest emerging talents ahead of a possible future move.

The 19-year-old certainly gave the watching scouts plenty to think about.

Camberos produced an eye-catching display as Mexico cruised to a 4-0 victory, scoring one of the goals in another confident attacking performance.

His display helped Mexico complete the group stage with a perfect record as they moved one step closer to securing qualification for both the FIFA Under-20 World Cup and the football tournament at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Camberos has enjoyed a rapid rise over the past year with Chivas and has become one of the most exciting young attacking players to emerge from Liga MX.

Capable of operating on either wing, he is known for his direct dribbling, acceleration and ability to create chances in one-versus-one situations.

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Arsenal have made a habit of identifying elite young talent from around the world in recent years, with sporting director Andrea Berta continuing to strengthen the club’s recruitment network across Europe and the Americas.

The Gunners have also shown a willingness to invest in promising youngsters before their value explodes, making Camberos the type of player who could fit the club’s long-term recruitment strategy.

Tottenham are also believed to be monitoring the winger’s development, setting up the possibility of another transfer battle between the north London rivals if interest develops into formal negotiations.

At this stage, there is no indication that either club has submitted an offer, with the current focus understood to be on gathering further information through live scouting.

However, the presence of Arsenal representatives at Mexico’s Under-20 qualifier highlights the growing reputation Camberos is building beyond Liga MX.

With another impressive international performance now added to his résumé, the young winger’s stock continues to rise, and Arsenal appear determined to keep a close watch on one of Mexico’s most exciting prospects.

Transfer speculation can intensify when agents are seen meeting clubs in person. Reports linking unexpected suitors sometimes serve as leverage in ongoing negotiations. Rival Premier League sides are rarely realistic destinations for certain players, yet their names still appear in coverage.

Centre-backs with leadership qualities and international experience remain in demand across Europe. When a player’s future at his current club looks uncertain, multiple sides are often mentioned. Separating genuine interest from tactical briefing becomes part of following the story.

Arsenal have been linked with an interest in Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero according to reports in Italy. Corriere dello Sport claims the Gunners are among the clubs Inter Milan must overcome in their pursuit of the Argentina international, alongside Barcelona.

Romero’s future appears likely to be away from Tottenham. Inter have been in contact with his representatives and the player is open to a move to the San Siro. Spurs initially set a €50million price but are understood to be willing to lower their demands, giving the Serie A champions optimism.

Romero’s agent Ciro Palermo was recently seen in Milan, adding fuel to the talks. Some observers believe the inclusion of Arsenal and other names in reports may be designed to strengthen the player’s negotiating position with Inter. A move across north London is considered highly unlikely given the rivalry between the clubs.

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Chelsea have also been mentioned, though their impending signing of Maxence Lacroix could reduce their need. Inter are aware it would be difficult to compete financially with Premier League sides if genuine interest existed.

For Arsenal the link appears speculative at this stage. The club’s defensive priorities have centred on other targets in recent weeks. Tottenham would almost certainly refuse to sell their former captain to their local rivals even if an approach were made.

Supporters will treat the reports with caution. Agent activity often generates headlines that do not reflect serious negotiations. The more realistic destination for Romero remains Inter Milan if a fee can be agreed. Further clarity is expected once formal talks progress.

Former Arsenal academy coach Ali Chahali has joined Tottenham Hotspur after being appointed as the club’s new Pre-Academy Lead Coach.

Chahali confirmed the news on social media, describing the opportunity as a “privilege” and revealing that he is returning to the club he supported as a child.

“It’s a privilege to join the club I’ve supported since a kid, as the Pre-Academy Lead Coach.”

The appointment comes just weeks after Chahali announced his departure from Arsenal following three seasons at Hale End.

In an emotional farewell message to Arsenal, Chahali thanked the coaches, players, families and staff he had worked alongside, writing:

“After 3 unforgettable seasons at Arsenal, the time has come for me to move on to a new challenge.”

He also paid tribute to everyone at Hale End who had helped him during his time with the club, thanking the academy staff for making him feel welcome from his first day.

Chahali has built a strong reputation in youth football through his work at Arsenal and as the founder of Pro Elite Football Academy, where he has helped develop a number of promising young players.

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His move sees him cross the north London divide to take up an important position within Tottenham’s academy structure, where he will oversee the development of players in the club’s youngest age groups.

The role of Pre-Academy Lead Coach is a crucial one, focusing on introducing young children to the club’s coaching philosophy before they progress into Tottenham’s formal academy system.

While supporters will naturally be disappointed to see a respected academy coach join one of Arsenal’s biggest rivals, the move also represents a significant career opportunity for Chahali as he takes on a leadership position at Spurs.

Arsenal have already moved to reshape their academy structure this summer following the departure of Per Mertesacker, appointing Pascal De Maesschalck as the club’s new Academy Director, while continuing to recruit both staff and young talent ahead of the 2026/27 season.

For Chahali, meanwhile, the next chapter of his coaching career will now begin across north London after fulfilling what he described as a childhood ambition by joining Tottenham.

Youth recruitment has become increasingly competitive among Premier League clubs. Talented teenagers who captain their age-group national sides often attract interest from multiple academies. Rival north London clubs frequently find themselves competing for the same prospects.

Securing the best young players requires early identification and strong relationships with the selling club. When one side gains an advantage, the other can be left disappointed. These battles form an important part of long-term squad building.

Tottenham are close to beating Arsenal to the signing of West Ham midfielder Isaac Allen. The England Under-15 midfield captain has been actively pursued by the Gunners for weeks, with Arsenal keen on the player. However, Spurs are now confident of securing the deal.

Allen’s progress at West Ham has made him one of the more highly-rated prospects in his age group. Arsenal’s interest underlines the club’s continued focus on adding quality to the academy ranks. The pursuit has been ongoing for some time as the Gunners looked to bring the midfielder to Hale End.

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Spurs’ confidence suggests they have made significant progress in negotiations. Completing the transfer would represent a coup for the north London rivals and a setback for Arsenal’s youth recruitment efforts. Both clubs place high value on identifying and signing the next generation of talent.

For Arsenal supporters, the news continues a mixed summer of transfer activity. While senior deals progress, missing out on promising youngsters can prove frustrating. The club’s academy remains well-stocked, yet every highly-rated prospect is worth pursuing.

West Ham will look to maximise any fee for a player they have developed. The outcome of this particular race appears to be tilting towards Tottenham. Arsenal may yet continue their efforts, but Spurs currently hold the stronger position.

The coming days should bring further clarity. Youth signings rarely generate the same headlines as senior transfers, yet they form a vital part of a club’s future planning. Arsenal will hope to bounce back with success on other academy targets as the window continues.

Arsenal have officially confirmed the signing of highly-rated defender Elijah Upson from Tottenham Hotspur, completing one of the most eye-catching academy moves of the summer.

The 18-year-old has joined the Gunners after leaving Spurs, with Arsenal announcing the defender’s arrival after he signed professional terms ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Upson arrives with an impressive reputation, having spent 11 years in Tottenham’s academy before deciding against signing a new contract with the club. Instead, he has crossed the north London divide to continue his development at Arsenal.

The defender had attracted significant interest after informing Tottenham of his decision to leave, but Arsenal ultimately won the race for his signature, with the club moving quickly to secure one of England’s most promising young centre-backs.

Upson is already an England Under-18 international and announced himself on the international stage by scoring a dramatic stoppage-time winner on his debut against France. Comfortable on the ball and highly regarded for his defensive qualities, he has established himself as one of the standout prospects in his age group.

His move also carries extra significance given his family ties to Arsenal. Elijah is the son of former Arsenal and England defender Matthew Upson, who made more than 100 appearances for the Gunners after progressing through the club’s academy before lifting the Premier League title.

Arsenal have placed a renewed emphasis on recruiting elite young talent in recent years, both from Hale End and from rival academies, with the club looking to build on the success of players such as Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly.

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Upson is expected to continue his development with Arsenal’s academy initially, but the pathway into Mikel Arteta’s first-team squad has become increasingly clear for the club’s brightest youngsters.

For Tottenham, losing an academy player directly to their fiercest rivals is a frustrating outcome, particularly after offering Upson a new contract in an attempt to keep him at the club. However, the teenager ultimately opted for Arsenal’s long-term project instead.

Having now been officially unveiled by Arsenal, Upson will begin the next chapter of his career in red and white as he looks to establish himself as one of the club’s next generation of defensive prospects.

Youth recruitment battles between rival clubs, such as Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal, add an extra edge to the summer window. When a talented teenager chooses one side over another, it often reflects confidence in the development pathway on offer. These signings can pay dividends for years as players progress through the ranks and into the senior team.

Defenders who show versatility and composure at a young age are always in demand. Clubs value those capable of adapting to different systems while demonstrating leadership qualities early. Arsenal have a strong track record of nurturing such prospects at Hale End.

The Gunners have now secured the signing of young centre-back Elijah Upson after he left Tottenham’s academy. The 18-year-old has agreed terms with Arsenal, with an official announcement expected in the coming days. The move will involve only a training compensation fee.

Upson rejected a new contract at Spurs despite interest from several other clubs. Chelsea, Manchester City, Everton, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen and Monaco were all credited with monitoring his situation. He ultimately chose Arsenal after visiting the training ground with his family.

The defender enjoyed a strong campaign with Spurs’ youth sides before speculation around his future affected his game time. He featured regularly in the UEFA Youth League and Under-18 Premier League, and even stepped up to the Under-21s. Upson has also represented England at youth level, including appearances for the Under-18s.

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His arrival adds to Arsenal’s efforts to bolster the academy following recent changes. As the son of former Gunner Matthew Upson, there is a nice family connection to the club. Upson will initially link up with the academy teams as he continues his development.

This signing highlights the competitive nature of youth football in north London. Arsenal have beaten their rivals to a player who showed real promise in Tottenham’s setup. For the youngster, it represents a fresh start and the chance to forge his own path at a club with a proven record of producing first-team talent.

Fans will be keen to see how Upson settles in and progresses through the ranks. With several other academy prospects making waves, the future looks bright for the Gunners’ youth setup. This latest addition is another positive step as Arsenal continue investing in the next generation.