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The Premier League returns this weekend with all 20 teams getting a feel for what they might need to do in the transfer window after the first round of fixtures

The opening weekend of Premier League matches has given plenty of teams a wake-up call when it comes to summer transfers. And now, as all 20 sides prepare to return to action, work is being done to get those last few deals over the line.

Eberechi Eze has been a man in demand all summer, and the expiry of his release clause hasn't changed that one bit. Tottenham had looked to be in pole position to sign the England international but Arsenal have now stolen a march.

Reigning champions Liverpool have been among the busiest in the league, but they might not be done. Alexander Isak's statement on Tuesday night could accelerate a move to Anfield for the Newcastle star, while a move for Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi remains possible.

Unlike Liverpool and Arsenal, Manchester United made a losing start to the campaign. A new central midfielder could be on the cards, even if Carlos Baleba is out of their price range, while they could also rival Manchester City for goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Stay with Mirror Football for all your transfer needs as we move that bit closer to deadline day.

Leverkusen's Boniface set for Milan

Victor Boniface is due to join AC Milan on loan from Bayer Leverkusen, according to various reports.

The Nigeria international's move will include an option to make the move permanent next summer for around £26m.

Boniface, 24, scored 11 times in 27 games for Leverkusen last term.

Godfrey set for Blades medical

Sheffield United are poised to bring in Ben Godfrey on loan from Atalanta.

According to Sky in Italy, the defender was due to fly to England on Wednesday night for a medical.

The Championship side will have a chance to make the move permanent at the end of the season.

Spurs' Eze issue uncovered

Part of Tottenham's early plan for Eberechi Eze was to send Richarlison to Crystal Palace as part of the deal.

However, according to Sky Sports, the Brazilian was not keen on heading to Selhurst Park.

Eze is now set for Arsenal in a deal worth up to £67.5m including add-ons.

DONE DEAL: Bournemouth sign Adli

Bournemouth have completed the signing of Amine Adli.

The Morocco international has joined from Bayer Leverkusen on a five-year deal, hot on the heels of Ben Gannon-Doak's move from Liverpool.

"Amine is a proven winner and someone that will be a real asset to our squad," president of football operations Tiago Pinto said.

"He’s entering the prime of his career and I’m really excited to bring him to the club."

Chelsea to cash in on Veiga

Chelsea are set to sell Renato Veiga to Villarreal, according to The Athletic.

The versatile Portugal international joined the Blues from Basel last summer but played just 18 times before joining Juventus on loan.

Juve had been linked with a permanent swoop, but instead he will join Villarreal for an initial £21m.

What Eze move might mean for Morgan Rogers

Arsenal had been linked with Morgan Rogers before their Eberechi Eze breakthrough.

Will the latest development ensure Rogers stays put after Villa set a high asking price for the England international?

Or might Tottenham now chance their arm after missing out on Eze?

Arsenal Eze excitement ramps up

Arsenal have yet to confirm Eberechi Eze's arrival, but excitement is growing.

Overnight, street art has emerged showing the playmaker in a Gunners shirt.

It might not be all that long before we see the real thing.

Douglas Luiz set for Forest medical

Douglas Luiz will undergo a Nottingham Forest medical today, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Brazilian is set to replace Danlio, who returned to his home country from Forest earlier in the summer.

Luiz's exit could help accelerate some of Juve's other transfer business before the window shuts.

Villa's Moreno off to Girona

Alex Moreno is set to leave Aston Villa for Girona, according to The Athletic.

The Spanish defender had been back at Villa Park after a loan spell with Nottingham Forest.

He will return to La Liga on a permanent basis, two-and-a-half years after joining Villa from Real Betis.

Marseille want West Ham's Emerson

Emerson Palmieri has emerged as a target for Marseille, according to Foot Mercato (via GFFN).

The West Ham left-back found him in and out of the side under Graham Potter last term after the emergence of Ollie Scarles.

Potter also brought in El Hadji Malick Diouf over the summer, and this could pave the way for Italy international Emerson to leave East London.

Enciso headed to Strasbourg

Strasbourg are closing in on Brighton youngster Julio Enciso, according to BBC Sport.

The French club are reportedly paying £17.3m for the Paraguay internatioanl, who is being tipped to later join sister side Chelsea.

Enciso, who joined Brighton in 2022, finished last season on loan at Ipswich after recovering from a serious knee injury.

Liverpool given fresh Guehi hope

Arsenal's move for Eze could see Jakub Kiwior move in the other direction, albeit in a separate deal.

If the Pole moves to Selhurst Park, that might prompt the Eagles to cash in on Liverpool target Marc Guehi.

Guehi is in the final year of his contract, but Palace's high asking price has so far put off the champions.

ICYMI: Arsenal lead Eze race

If you were out last night, you may have missed the news that Arsenal are poised to pip Tottenham to the signing of Eberechi Eze.

Spurs had reached an agreement with Crystal Palace for the England star, only for their rivals to swoop in at the eleventh hour.

We should see movement on the deal pretty swiftly, though Eze might be an Arsenal player in time for Saturday's game against Leeds.

He is set to undergo a Gunners medical, but only after one last Palace game against Fredrikstad in tonight's Conference League play-off.

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Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze looked set to join Tottenham Hotspur, but a last ditch attempt by Arsenal to secure his signature now looks to have won over the England international

Bukayo Saka possibly dropped a subtle hint that Eberechi Eze could join him at Arsenal earlier this month. The Gunners have swooped in for the Crystal Palace winger at the eleventh hour ahead of their bitter rivals, Tottenham Hotspur.

Spurs looked to have secured their man. However, Mikel Arteta's side made it clear they would meet Palace's asking price of £68million, while agreeing terms with the England star, pulling off an incredible late stage hijack. A switch to the Emirates Stadium will see Eze join up with some of his international team-mates, one of those being Saka.

Before the new season kicked off, Saka posted pictures on his Instagram story showing him visiting the New Balance shop in London.

In one of the snaps, there is a big picture of Saka, alongside a display of New Balance footballs. However, just in front of the picture of the Arsenal star, is a much smaller photo of Eze. Subtle? Indeed. A coincidence, with Eze also having a partnership with the sportswear brand? Maybe.

However, with recent events transpiring how they have, it's safe to say, while the placement of Eze's photo in Saka's story was perhaps coincidental, it now looks like a deliberate hint from the 23-year-old that he perhaps knew all along that his England team-mate would end up joining him in north London.

Palace chairman Steve Parish and Tottenham owner Daniel Levy were locked in talks over a deal for Eze. Yet Eze always preferred to join Arsenal – the club where he spent time in the academy – and that proved crucial in luring him back to the Gunners.

The Athletic reports that, having previously been put off by the asking price, Arsenal eventually indicated that they will pay the release clause, which expired last Friday.

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta and vice-chairman Tim Lewis worked fast to reach an agreement, which will see Eze undergo a medical after playing one final time for Palace in their Conference League play-off match against Fredrikstad on Thursday evening at Selhurst Park.

However, Palace could still omit him from the tie to avoid risk of injury before his Arsenal medical.

Palace’s insistence that any deal be put on hold until after their Conference League play-off match ultimately helped to end Spurs' chances of landing Eze, as it gave Arsenal time to swoop.

The Gunners have not hidden their admiration for Eze, but had backed away from a deal in recent weeks, seemingly leaving Spurs to have a free run. However, a knee injury to Kai Havertz spurred Arsenal into action.

Arsenal have already spent over £200m this summer on Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera, Christian Norgaard and Kepa Arrizabalaga.

And adding Eze to their armoury will certainly strengthen their push for the title. Eze has made 167 appearances for Palace since joining from Queens Park Rangers in 2020 in a deal worth £17m. The 27-year-old played 43 times in all competitions for Palace last season, scoring 14 goals and providing 11 assists.

Meanwhile at Tottenham, Thomas Frank is still desperately keen to add a creative spark to his squad after losing James Maddison to a serious knee injury, while Son Heung-min also departed this summer. Mohammed Kudus has arrived from West Ham, but further reinforcements are certainly needed.

This summer has seen Premier League stars down tools to secure moves away, but Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze has kept his head down before sealing his dream transfer to Arsenal

Eberechi Eze’s professionalism for Crystal Palace despite knowing he's been likely to move on this month shows exactly the kind of character Arsenal are getting. The Palace talisman, 27, was seemingly set to join Tottenham until Wednesday night’s bombshell news that their north London rivals had hijacked the deal.

The Gunners had cooled their interest in the England international after agreeing a contract extension for 18-year-old Ethan Nwaneri. That opened up the floor for Spurs to emerge as favourites to land Eze, who was up for making the move but had preferred to join his boyhood club, Arsenal.

Several days of difficult negotiations followed between Spurs chairman Daniel Levy and Palace co-owner Steve Parish over a fee, only for Arsenal to brutally cast their bitter rivals aside by agreeing a deal with the south London club. The Gunners submitted a bid in the region of Eze’s £68million release clause, which expired earlier this summer, usurping the fee rivals Spurs were prepared to pay and giving Palace what they wanted.

As first reported by The Independent, the Gunners struck the principles of an agreement with Palace as early as August 10, but did not appear to want to follow through on that agreement - until forward Kai Havertz’s injury blow left them short offensively. Steve Parish’s relationship with Arsenal executive vice-chairman Tim Lewis and that prior agreement already being made, moved the Gunners right to the front of the queue.

Eze is expected to undergo his medical on Friday at London Colney, and has made clear that he is keen to play for Palace in Thursday’s Conference League play-off against Fredrikstad. It demonstrates the same exemplary attitude and commitment the player has shown all summer long amid swirling rumours around his future.

However, he may not get his way, now that a fee has been agreed with Arsenal.

Despite making it clear to Palace that he was open for a new challenge, Eze has not downed tools like various other Premier League stars we have seen in recent weeks, playing in both of their competitive games thus far, having already etched his name into club folklore by winning the FA Cup and the Community Shield.

Eze is now set to become Arsenal’s seventh signing of the window under new sporting director Andrea Berta. And given how vocal the player has been in the past about his love for the Gunners, it is likely he will give his all in an Arsenal shirt too.

Eze was once part of the north Londoners’ academy and has made no secret of his heartbreak when he was released as a 13-year-old. The then-teenager admitted he couldn’t focus on his training and was left “crying for a week” in his room.

Nevertheless, Eze’s affection for the Emirates Stadium outfit remained strong, as he stated in 2018 Thierry Henry was his idol and that Arsenal would win the league that season.

He said: "When I was younger, I used to love Thierry Henry, and that's sort of why I decided to sign for them. Just growing up playing for them, I've grown a love for them."

If Eze plays on Thursday night, it will be his 170th and final appearance for Palace, during which time he's scored 40 goals. He has been capped 12 times by England, scoring once.

Arsenal have moved ahead of bitter rivals Tottenham in the race for Crystal Palace winger Eberechi Eze with sporting director Andrea Berta attempting to get a deal done by next month’s deadline

Arsenal have once again put Tottenham’s noses out of joint when it comes to the transfer market - this time with a move for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze. Spurs looked set to seal a sensational deal for the England wideman in what represented a considerable coup for Thomas Frank's side.

But Arsenal have not let Eze move to North London without muscling in on a deal and it now appears that the 27-year-old is now primed for a switch to the Emirates Stadium before next month’s transfer deadline. It’s certainly left Spurs baffled, while Arsenal now appear to have secured a player that they have admired for some time. The process in the Gunners hijacking the move has not been particularly swift though.

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta actually thrashed out the terms of the deal as early as August 10 - as first reported by The Independent - although that was kept quiet, so much so to the extent that word was put out that they needed to sell players first, while a left-winger was higher up on their agenda. Their move for Eze was basically put on ice.

That left the door open to Spurs, who were then considered as the favourites for his services. They finally agreed terms with Palace and Eze on Wednesday after a series of complicated and often fraught discussions - with the player himself ready to move, albeit after turning out for the Eagles in their Europa Conference League playoff vs Fredrikstad on Thursday.

Kai Havertz’s knee injury however accelerated Arsenal’s thinking and pushed them into actions - leading them to gazump Spurs’ bid.

Daniel Levy had thrashed out a deal worth £50m plus £10m in add-ons, while Arsenal will pay £60m and £7.5m in add-ons. Steve Parish’s relationship with Arsenal executive vice-chairman Tim Lewis appears to have moved the Gunners to the front of the queue over recent days.

The pair are in regular communication - far more than Parish and Spurs chief Levy. The chance of more business also appears to have strengthened Arsenal’s hand - with defender Jakub Kiwior currently of interest to Palace.

Is Eberechi Eze a good signing for Arsenal? Share your thoughts in the comments below

In the middle of all of it though was Eze himself, who was ‘excited’ about becoming a Spurs player despite his affection for the Gunners. The England man was released by Arsenal as a teenager and had spoken of his ‘dream’ to one day represent the club.

Given Arsenal’s previous hesitation, he had accepted that dream might not become a reality. He had held talks with Parish to try and resolve the situation but to no avail. That was until Wednesday, when Arsenal moved to the front of the queue for Eze. Spurs have not officially pulled out but all of the signs now point to Eze becoming an Arsenal player.

It has now left Levy facing questions. The Spurs chief has also missed out on a deal for Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White this summer, with Gubbs-White also ready to move before performing a dramatic u-turn to sign a new deal with the Midlands side.

This one will likely sting more. It leaves Arsenal with a hugely talented footballer, who appears to have secured his dream move against all odds.

Tottenham are still working on a deal to sign Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace and their pursuit could now be aided with their Premier League rivals closing in on a replacement

Tottenham and Crystal Palace have still not yet reached an agreement over a transfer fee for Eberechi Eze, who is now likely to feature in the Eagles' opening Europa Conference League fixture on Thursday.

Spurs and Palace have been in talks over a deal for Eze, 27, this week with the former stepping up their efforts to land the attacking midfielder after discovering that the injured James Maddison is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines. However, the two clubs have so far been unable to agree on a payment structure for a proposed £60million deal.

Talks are expected to continue over the coming days with Eze keen on the idea of moving across London. But with no agreement in place, the former QPR man is now poised to start in Palace's Europa Conference League play-off first leg against Fredrikstad on Thursday.

Oliver Glasner, Crystal Palace's head coach, confirmed as much on Wednesday when he revealed that Eze and Marc Guehi - a target for Liverpool - remain committed to the cause despite interest from elsewhere.

"Most of you will be surprised that they will start again tomorrow because of all the rumours," Glasner said in a press conference. "But they are committed here and they will play a crucial part."

While Eze is likely to be on the pitch for the start of Crystal Palace's maiden European campaign, it seems likely that the club and Tottenham will reach an agreement for his transfer before September 1. Encouragingly for Tottenham, though, Palace have made progress in their pursuit of a player who could help fill the sizeable void Eze would leave.

Join the debate! Do you think Tottenham will manage to sign Eze this summer? Let us know here

Bilal El Khannouss of Leicester is one of the targets Palace have identified amid interest in Eze and Sky Sports claim that the FA Cup winners are now 'close' to agreeing a deal worth £32million for the attacking midfielder.

El Khannouss, 21, is among a number of options Palace are weighing up during the final two weeks of the transfer window. They also hold an interest in Christos Tzolis of Club Brugge, though it now seems that a deal for El Khannouss is more advanced.

The Morocco star contributed two goals and three assists in 32 Premier League appearances for Leicester last season as they were relegated from the top-flight.

Stars push for Arsenal transfer

Alex Iwobi has revealed his team-mates are pushing for a deal to bring Reiss Nelson back to Craven Cottage. Speaking to the Standard, Iwobi said: “It’s the same with Reiss. His style of play is very explosive. He is very sharp. I just hope that he returns fit and healthy as soon as possible.

“It would be nice for him to come back to Fulham, because we know the sort of player he is. I can try to be an agent - but I am not!

“There is a specific group chat - I am not going to name names - but a lot of people are pressuring him, trying to find out what is going on! Me, I am not one of them!”

Next Arsenal move

Mikel Arteta still wants to strengthen his left wing options - but must sell before he can do more transfer business.

The Gunners have been linked with Eze and Rodrygo with not much time less in the window but could yet hold off another deal.

Porto considering Kiwior

Porto could offer Jakub Kiwior a route away from Arsenal, according to Sky Sports.

The centre-back had previously been linked with a move back to Serie A, where he previously played for Spezia before joining the Gunners.

Kiwior has three years left on his current contract so Arsenal are in no rush to sell.

Sunderland in for Lucumi

Sunderland might not be done, despite adding Nordi Mukiele over the weekend.

Jhon Lucumi is another defensive target for the Black Cats, with Sky Sports reporting a bid has been lodged for the Bologna man.

Lucumi, a Colombian international, played 32 times in Serie A last term.

Wissa drops transfer hint

Yoane Wissa has deleted all links to Brentford from his Instagram account.

The forward has been linked with a Newcastle switch, and was left out of the Bees' squad to face Nottingham Forest on Sunday.

He still has photos on display from DR Congo international appearances but none for his club side, who want a reported £50-60m if they are to sell him this summer.

Guardiola's Man City exit plans

Pep Guardiola is ready to let Stefan Ortega and Kalvin Phillips leave Manchester City this summer, but more exits could follow.

According to The Athletic Manuel Akanji and Mateo Kovacic could also leave for the right price.

Rico Lewis looks more likely to stay than go at this stage, though, with Guardiola confirming as much - though the boss admitted Nottingham Forest target Lewis could yet leave.

Rodrygo in Madrid squad for league opener

Real Madrid have named Rodrygo in their squad to face Osasuna in La Liga on Tuesday.

The winger has been linked with a Premier League move, but head coach Xabi Alonso is continuing to treat him as an important squad member.

"There are many rumors in the summer, but I've seen him well and I count on everyone,” Alonso said.

Nypan set for Boro loan

Sverre Nypan is set to join Middlesbrough on loan, according to various reports.

The Norwegian only joined City from Rosenborg over the summer, but is being given a taste of English football at Championship level first.

City have already sent a number of other youngsters out on loan to second-tier clubs, with Divin Mubama at Stoke and Joel Ndala spending the seaosn with Hull.

No movement on Garnacho

After last week's news that Alejandro Garnacho and Chelsea had agreed personal terms, some might have expected a deal to be done by now.

That's not the case, with Chelsea yet to agree a fee with Manchester United.

The Blues left it very late to sign Jadon Sancho on loan from United last summer - might we be in for a repeat?

Palace in advanced talks for Eze and El Khannouss

Crystal Palace could be set to open the door to Eberechi Eze's move to Tottenham. According to Sky in Switzerland, both Tottenham and Palace are in advanced talks to finalise his move to North London.

Steve Parish has reportedly given his assurances that he will not stand in Eze's way. Palace have accepted his potential departure, with a replacement having already been identified.

It is suggested that Palace are already in advanced talks with Leicester regarding Bilal El Khannouss, with a final meeting between the two clubs expected.

Newcastle fear Isak anger

Newcastle could face a transfer backlash after the Alexander Isak saga.

The Toon Army are desperate to bring in replacements with Paris Saint Germain’s Goncalo Ramos on their wanted list for a new No9.

That would enable Newcastle to cash in on want-away striker Isak with Liverpool desperate to land the Sweden international.

But there are fears among top agents that if Newcastle are digging in and playing hardball over Isak then it sets a worrying precedent for future targets.

Birmingham plot Oxlade-Chamberlain swoop

Birmingham City are plotting a blockbuster move for former Liverpool and Arsenal star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain ahead of next month's deadline.

The Blues are determined to bolster their side following a positive start to the new campaign. And Oxlade-Chamberlain is on their list of potential targets.

The midfielder is currently at Besiktas and is open to a move back to England amid reported interest from the Premier League.

Liverpool closing in on Doak sale

Liverpool are set to sell forward Ben Doak to Bournemouth. According to reports, the forward has undergone a medical with the Cherries ahead of a move to the South Coast.

Bournemouth are expected to pay around £25m for Doak. He was previously of interest to Leeds and Porto, as per the BBC.

Bournemouth have made a move for the forward after selling Dango Ouattara to Brentford.

DONE DEAL - Spence signs new deal

From a new Forest player to a former one now as Djed Spence puts pen to paper on a new deal with Spurs.

The full-back has signed a new long-term deal with the North London side.

Spence arrived at Spurs from Middlesbrough in 2022 and has gone on to make 42 appearances - 35 of which came last season.

DONE DEAL - Forest sign Kalimuendo

Another big move from Nottingham Forest as they confirm the signing of French striker Arnaud Kalimuendo. The forward pens a five-year deal with the Midlands side.

He said: "When I heard about the interest from Forest, I was honoured. This is a proud moment for me, joining a team who had a strong season last year and a Club with great history.

“I’m ready for the challenge, and I arrive here with good experience. I had a good season last year with goals and assists but I want more and want to reach a new level here.

“I can’t wait to play in the Premier League, and to play at the City Ground. I watched games from last season and it’s clear the fans create a beautiful atmosphere. I'm excited to see them and impatient to get started.”

Roma threaten to end Sancho interest

ROMA are threatening to pull the plug on a £20m deal for Jadon Sancho.

The Italian giants are keen on the Manchester United misfit but are ready to give him an ultimatum after becoming frustrated with negotiations.

Sancho, 25, is surplus to requirements at Old Trafford and a £20m deal has been agreed for a loan with an obligation to buy the England international.

But Sancho’s £250,000-a-week wages have been a major sticking point as the winger does not want to take a financial hit.

It would also appear by the long, drawn out negotiations that he has some reservations about moving to Italy and another loan move after joining Chelsea and former club Borussia Dortmund on loan during his nightmare spell at United.

Spurs chasing Eze

TOTTENHAM are pushing hard to complete a £60m deal for Eberechi Eze - but may have to wait until the weekend.

And Crystal Palace are also playing hardball over England defender Marc Guehi and talks with Liverpool have stalled over a potential move to Anfield.

Palace chairman wants to keep his prize assets until after the start of their Europa Conference League campaign which kicks off against Fredrikstad on Thursday.

The most pressing deal is Eze who has made it clear he is keen on Spurs and the deal - likely to be £55m plus £5m in add-ons - is now primed after negotiations.

Spurs were pushing hard to get a deal agreed but Palaca are determined to stay in charge and dictate over both Eze and Guehi before the end of the window.

Forest close to Luiz deal

Nottingham Forest look set to add to their impressive summer transfer business with a move for Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz. The Midlands side are targeting the Brazilian for a permanent move.

As per reports in Italy, they have already agreed a five-year deal with Luiz, but now need to agree a fee with Juventus. It is suggested that talks are continuing on that front.

Juventus reportedly want to bank around €40m for the former Aston Villa man.

AC Milan confirm Hojlund interest

AC Milan have confirmed that they hold an interest in Man United star Rasmus Hojlund.

"Højlund is a good option for us," Milan sporting director Igli Tare told Mediaset on Sunday. "We are thinking about him, but in the transfer market, you never know what could happen."

Hojlund was left out of United's squad for their clash with Arsenal on Sunday.

Donnarumma close to Man City move

Manchester City are close to signing PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. According to Le10 Sport, Pep Guardiola's side are in a 'very good position' to sign the Italian.

However, they at first need to move on Ederson before making a move for Donnarumma. The Brazilian has been linked with Galatasaray.

City have already signed James Trafford this summer, who shone in City's Premier League opener against Wolves.

Richards approves Rodrygo deal

Micah Richards has suggested that the signing of Rodrygo could finally get Arsenal over the line in the race for the Premier League title.

Speaking on the Rest is Football podcadst, he said: "I just look at that position on the left-hand side and think if they could sort that. When they was linked to Rodrygo, that could solve a lot of problems for them."

Arsenal reject Saliba swap

Arsenal have turned down a sensational swap deal from Real Madrid involving William Saliba and Rodrygo.

According to Marca via Sport, the Spanish giants have the Frenchman right at the top of their transfer shortlist. They wanted to sign him for free in 2027 - or for a reduced fee next summer.

But they have attempted to accelerate a move with a swap deal which would see the Brazilian winger move to North London. Arsenal have already responded by rebuffing the proposal.

ICYMI - Newcastle sign Ramsey

Newcastle completed the signing of Jacob Ramsey yesterday amid suggestions that Alexander Isak could leave the club.

The midfielder has joined in a £39m deal from Aston Villa. "I'm delighted to be here. It's been a mad two or three days, but I'm really happy to be here and I can't wait to get started," he said after the move was made official.

"This is a big move for me, but as soon as I knew the gaffer was interested and really liked me, it didn't take much time to decide. His track record of developing players, especially those who have gone on to become internationals here, speaks for itself.

"It was always a tough game playing for Villa against Newcastle - the team is full of energy, so athletic and the fans are so passionate. I feel my game will suit that and I'm excited to be on the other end of it now."

Guardiola expects Lewis to stay

Pep Guardiola has revealed that Rico Lewis has told him that he wants to stay at Man City despite interest from Nottingham Forest.

"I think he is going to stay. I think," he said. "He told me that. But maybe tomorrow it changes.

"For example for the case with Phil, for Rico, for Nico O’Reilly, I have special sympathy because they were 16 or 17 years old when they arrived here and we were winning Premier Leagues. In his role he is an extraordinary player.

"But he is so small. If he was taller we’d say, 'oh what a player'. Today, I think he is going to stay but I don’t know what is going to happen."

Glasner gives Eze update

Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze is not a Tottenham player YET, Eagles boss Oliver Glasner has said, who suggests he has no doubt over his commitment.

"The 15, 16 players who had the most minutes last year are still here," Glasner told Sky Sports after his team earned a goalless draw at Chelsea. "There are a lot of rumours about Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi but they were 100 per cent with this group in Crystal Palace and they have proved that in a big way.

"Eb should have scored a goal today, he had one and it was disallowed. He will come tomorrow to the Crystal Palace training ground, Tuesday off, we take Wednesday and I expect him to be back playing for us against Fredrikstad."

Good morning!

Good morning everyone and welcome along to Mirror Football's live transfer blog on Monday.

We're now on the two-week countdown until transfer deadline day. Get up to date with all of the latest transfer news and rumours throughout the day.

Eberechi Eze is nearing a move to Tottenham Hotspur, but the Crystal Palace FA Cup hero's past comments about Arsenal are unlikely to go down well with their rivals

Old video footage of Tottenham and Arsenal transfer target Eberechi Eze expressing his love for the Gunners has emerged. The Crystal Palace playmaker has been linked with both north London clubs this summer.

Arsenal were initially expected to be Eze's next destination due to their interest in signing a left-sided attacking midfielder. But their bitter rivals Tottenham now appear in pole position to sign the 27-year-old England international.

Spurs are understood to want to sign Eze for a fee of £55million plus £5m in bonuses, with his release clause of £68.5m having expired earlier this summer. However, they are yet to reach an agreement with Palace.

And with Eze said to be interested in a Tottenham move due to their Champions League football, he may have already played his final Premier League game for the Eagles on Sunday against Chelsea, where he had a stunning free-kick controversially chalked off.

Arsenal's interest in Eze has cooled since they announced a new long-term contract for 18-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, with the England star's arrival potentially blocking both Nwaneri and 15-year-old wonderkid Max Dowman's pathway into the first team.

But while Spurs will have no issue with picking up the pieces, their fans are unlikely to be impressed by an old interview of Eze, which has surfaced online. In the clip, said to be filmed in 2018 while he was still an exciting prospect at Queens Park Rangers, Eze makes his allegiance to boyhood club Arsenal clear.

When asked who his favourite Premier League team was by journalist Alessandro Morolli-Schiavone, Eze responded: "Arsenal. I've just supported them from young. The way they play. I played with them when I was younger as well so they're my favourite team.”

Asked whether he would leave if Arsenal came calling, he sheepishly replied: "I don't know about all of that. I'm a QPR player now and I'm happy to be playing for QPR." Eze was also asked who would win the Premier League that season (2018/19), to which he boldly predicted: "Arsenal. I believe, somehow."

He went on to add: "When I was younger, I used to love Thierry Henry, and that's sort of why I decided to sign for them. Just growing up playing for them, I've grown a love for them."

Palace signed Eze from QPR back in the summer of 2020 for around £17m. Before that, he was on the books at Arsenal's famous Hale End academy, though he later admitted he was left "crying for a week" after being released at the age of 13.

He has gone on to become one of the Premier League's most exciting players at Palace, making 167 appearances in all competitions and scoring 39 goals - 14 of which came last season.

Spurs boss Thomas Frank was asked about a potential transfer following his side's opening day win vs Burnley, but remained tight-lipped.

He said: "We are definitely in the market. I said it before, Daniel and Johan and Vinai are working relentlessly to try to do their best to improve the squad, but we only want to improve the squad if we can get players in that can improve the squad. I want to keep it like this."

Asked specifically about Eze, the Dane responded: "I have that nice principle that I would like to speak about the players that are in-house and all the other speculations I don't want to speak too much about that."

Along with a fee still needing to be agreed, Eze's departure will also depend on whether or not Palace can land a replacement before the window closes. They are currently chasing Leicester's Bilal El Khannouss and Club Brugge midfielder Christos Tzolis. Eze is expected to be available for Palace's Conference League play-off on Thursday.

Tottenham are still hopeful of wrapping up a deal for Eberechi Eze while Liverool are keen on Marc Guehi, but Crystal Palace won't let them go without a fight

Tottenham are pushing hard to complete a £60m deal for Eberechi Eze - but may have to wait until the weekend. And Crystal Palace are also playing hardball over England defender Marc Guehi and talks with Liverpool have stalled over a potential move to Anfield.

Palace chairman wants to keep his prize assets until after the start of their Europa Conference League campaign which kicks off against Fredrikstad on Thursday.

The most pressing deal is Eze who has made it clear he is keen on Spurs and the deal - likely to be £55m plus £5m in add-ons - is now primed after negotiations.

Spurs were pushing hard to get a deal agreed but Palace are determined to stay in charge and dictate over both Eze and Guehi before the end of the window.

Eze, 27, is a player in demand and yet Palace want to get replacements lined up with Leicester's Bilal El Khannouss and Club Brugge midfielder Christos Tzolis on their radar.

Parish has gained a reputation for being a tough negotiator and therefore both deals will have to be done on Palace’s terms and Guehi’s future could be decided in the final days of the window.

Guehi only has a year left on his contract and Liverpool are keen but it would have to be at the right price as he is a free agent next year.

Palace are continuing to play both players throughout the uncertainty and, despite doubts in the build-up, Eze started at Chelsea and was unlucky to have an effort ruled out in the goalless draw.

Palace boss Oliver Glasner insisted afterwards that Eze’s £68m buy-out clause had expired and it was now in the hands of the club.

Eze clearly feels the time could be right for him to move on and push himself for England and also play in the Champions League.

Tottenham have always rated him but it was only after James Maddison ’s long-term knee injury which really forced their hand.

They are now leading the chase with Arsenal in the background even though Eze knows that Mikel Arteta is a big fan and his head has been turned by interest from the Emirates.

But Arsenal are not currently in a position to make another big deal and that has left the way open for Spurs to come in and get the in-demand England star.

Oliver Glasner makes Eberechi Eze feelings very clear after Crystal Palace U-turn

Eberechi Eze looks to be on the verge of a move to Tottenham Hotspur from Crystal Palace but an exit might not be as straightforward as first thought with Oliver Glasner now speaking out

Oliver Glasner named Eberechi Eze in Crystal Palace's starting XI vs Chelsea on Sunday, despite an imminent move to Tottenham - with the Palace boss continuing to sing the praises of his star man.

Eze has been identified as a priority target for Thomas Frank’s men with talks between the clubs advancing in recent days. It was duly suggested that those talks had moved forward to the extent that Eze would not play a part in Crystal Palace’s Premier League season opener at Stamford Bridge, ahead of a potential £60m switch.

However Eze duly started in west London, despite the speculation, with Glasner continuing to be full of praise for the England international. Asked by Sky Austria which player currently embodies the spirit he has built at Selhurst Park, he only had one answer: “Eberechi Eze – a player who can score a goal out of nowhere that brings us victory. Sometimes you need that kind of momentum, without everyone having played tactically perfect and eight one-twos beforehand.”

Glasner has also sent Palace chiefs a warning over the futures of Eze - and Marc Guehi who has been linked with Liverpool. He has claimed that improvement could be difficult should the pair be sold.

Asked what his targets are for the forthcoming campaign, the Austrian responded: “That obviously depends on how the transfer window goes. If you constantly lose your best players and don’t replace them accordingly, it will be difficult to maintain or even improve your level.

“Except for the first eight match days, we finished at least seventh for the rest of last season. If that’s possible, I can’t think of any reasons why we couldn’t achieve that for the entire season.”

Elsewhere, Spurs boss Thomas Frank also dropped a hint about his side’s pursuit of Eze. Speaking after his side’s opening day win vs Burnley, he said: “We are definitely in the market.

Would Eberechi Eze be a good signing for Spurs? Share your thoughts in the comments below

"I said it before, Daniel and Johan and Vinai are working relentlessly to try to do their best to improve the squad, but we only want to improve the squad if we can get players in that can improve squad. I want to keep it like is.”

Asked specifically about Eze, the Dane elected to remain slightly more tight-lipped. He said: “I have that nice principle that I would like to speak about the players that are in-house and all the other speculations I don't want to speak too much about that.”

Eberechi Eze is closing in on a move to Tottenham Hotspur but it appears that Crystal Palace aren’t quite ready to ease their grip on the England star quite yet

Eberechi Eze is now expected to START for Crystal Palace against Chelsea despite reports of an imminent move to Tottenham Hotspur. The England star is the subject of serious interest from the North London side.

And reports over the weekend claimed that Spurs were stepping up their interest - and Eze was set to be out of action for Palace. The Eagles open up their latest Premier League campaign against Chelsea on Sunday.

But it now appears that a U-turn has been performed over Eze’s availability for Palace this weekend. According to a number of reports, the winger is now expected to be named in the starting line-up vs Chelsea after a similar claim by Palace boss Oliver Glasner.

Speaking ahead of the Chelsea game, he said: “Marc [Guehi] has trained the entire week with us, every single training session, the same with Ebs [Eze]. They’ve prepared the best way for the Chelsea game on Sunday afternoon.

“I’ve been in the football business for too long, so I know that at any time of any day, things can happen. If you ask me now, I expect both Marc and Ebs to start on Sunday.”

Spurs’ pursuit of Eze is still ongoing but there is no agreement between the two clubs as of yet, while Palace continue to work on possible replacements. Leicester ’s Bilal El Khannouss has been linked over recent days, while Club Brugge's Christos Tzolis is also an option.

It was claimed that Spurs wanted to sign Eze for around £60m, while a release clause of £68.5m expired earlier this summer. Spurs boss Thomas Frank was asked about a potential move following his side’s opening day win vs Burnley, but remained tight-lipped.

He said: “We are definitely in the market. I said it before, Daniel and Johan and Vinai are working relentlessly to try to do their best to improve the squad, but we only want to improve the squad if we can get players in that can improve squad. I want to keep it like is.”

Is Eberechi Eze a good signing for Spurs? Share your thoughts in the comments below

Asked specifically about Eze, the Dane responded: “I have that nice principle that I would like to speak about the players that are in-house and all the other speculations I don't want to speak too much about that.”

Palace signed Eze from fellow capital side Queens Park Rangers back in the summer of 2020 for around £17m. He has gone on to make 167 appearances in all competitions for the club, scoring 39 goals - 14 of which came last season.