The Independent

Thomas Frank has a seismic job on his hands to rebuild Tottenham and lead the freshly crowned European champions into a new era.

Spurs came into the summer off the back of success in the Europa League final - a first trophy in 17 years, delivered by Ange Postecoglou.

However, silverware was not enough to save the Aussie’s job after what was otherwise a catastrophic campaign, with Tottenham finishing 17th in the Premier League on just 38 points.

Frank was sounded out as Daniel Levy’s first choice to replace Postecoglou in the dugout, with the Dane winning his fair share of admirers over a seven-year spell at the Brentford helm.

He oversaw a remarkable rise in the Bees’ fortunes, guiding them to promotion to the top flight in 2021, and has now moved to one of the Premier League’s “big six” in a bid to restore Spurs’ status as a contender at the upper end of the table.

The capture of West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus for £55m was the first step in doing that, but a potential move for Morgan Gibbs-White went awry before Spurs were beaten to the signing of Eberechi Eze by arch-rivals Arsenal.

And with James Maddison out for the majority of the season with an ACL injury, reinforcements are desperately needed ahead of the window closing on 1 September, with Spurs tracking targets in several attacking positions.

Here’s everything you need to know about Tottenham’s summer transfer plans.

Areas to improve

Tottenham might be boasting European champion status, but their team is hardly reflective of such an achievement. At the heart of their issues is depth, something that was brutally exposed last term in the midst of their unrelenting injury crisis.

Future injuries in defence cannot lead to Archie Gray being plonked at centre-back. As such, Spurs will be desperate for cover in those defensive positions, especially given the amount of time Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero spent in the treatment table last season.

Spurs were targeting a top quality defensive midfielder to elevate the team, given the issues experienced in that position. Though they have a few top-drawer midfielders – with the likes of James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall impressing – a new No 6 was a priority, and they seem to have sorted that with the loan signing of Joao Palhinha.

Going forward, Spurs need further reinforcements. Mathys Tel’s loan move has already been made permanent, and alongside the arrival of Kudus these signings act to partly address issues in depth on the wing and up top. However, Spurs could really do with another striker option and ideally an extra body on the wing, though their much-publicised pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White was derailed after the Englishman signed a new contract at the City Ground.

Done deals

Ins: Mohammed Kudus (West Ham, £55m), Mathys Tel (Bayern Munich, £30m), Kevin Danso (Lens, £21m), Luka Vuskovic (Hadjuk Split, £9.4m), Kota Takai (Kawasaki Frontale, £5m), Joao Palhinha (Bayern Munich, loan)

Outs: Pierre-Emile Hojberg (Marseille, £17m), Alejo Veliz (Rosario Central, loan), Fraser Forster (released), Sergio Reguilon (released), Alfie Whiteman (released), Heung Min Son (LAFC, £20m), Mikey Moore (Rangers, loan)

Potential targets

Savinho, Manchester City

City winger Savinho emerged as a main target for Spurs after the injury to Maddison, with the club seeing a proposal worth a rumoured €50m rejected by City.

City’s hierarchy are blocking the move at the moment, though it is suggested that a bid closer to £70m would tempt the Cityzens, and Spurs are still interested.

Maghnes Akliouche, AS Monaco

AS Monaco winger Akliouche has been identified as an alternative target to Savinho, with the Frenchman available for around £47.5m.

The 23-year-old scored seven goals for the club last season and opened his account for 25/26 in the 3-1 win over Le Havre on the opening day, and it is understood that several of Europe’s top clubs are tracking him.

Morgan Rogers, Aston Villa

As reported in The Independent, Spurs have made Morgan Rogers a primary target after missing out on Eze, with contact made via intermediaries to see if a deal is possible.

Villa do not want to sell the 23-year-old, who won the PFA Young Player of the Year award this week, though they may have to consider if a bid arrives due to their ongoing PSR struggles.

Nevertheless, it is suggested that Villa would require a bid worth around £80m to even consider a sale.

Marc Guehi, Crystal Palace

Eagles skipper Marc Guehi has been near the top of Tottenham’s wish list for a while now, though they face competition from clubs including Liverpool and Newcastle.

Spurs had a late move for the defender rejected in the winter window but could go back in for him in the coming weeks, with his contract at Selhurst Park expiring in 2026. Palace are said to be holding out for around £40m for the 25-year-old, though Liverpool are reportedly close to a move after agreeing personal terms with the England international.

Yoane Wissa, Brentford

Tottenham are interested in Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, who is Brentford’s leading scorer in the Premier League with 45 goals. Spurs originally held an interest in the striker in January, and have been quoted a price of £50m for his signature.

Newcastle, Nottingham Forest and even Liverpool are also interested in the Congo international, but with Brentford wanting to keep him and Newcastle already seeing two bids rebuffed, this is not an easy deal to do at this point.

Nico Paz, Como

Reports in Italy claim that Spurs submitted an offer worth €40m for Como midfielder Nico Paz, who joined the club from Real Madrid last season and subsequently won the Serie A young player of the season award. Como are said to want at least €60m for the Argentina national, with Madrid set to earn up to 50 per cent of any transfer fee due to a sell-on clause.

Rodrygo, Real Madrid

File this one under ‘unlikely’, but Tottenham continue to be linked with Real Madrid winger Rodrygo in several reports over the last few weeks.

The Brazilian is said to be unhappy at his lack of a starting berth at the Bernabeu, and could move elsewhere with leading clubs including PSG and Liverpool interested.

However, conflicting reports suggest he could opt to fight for his future and sign a new deal at Los Blancos, so each report needs to be taken with a pinch of salt.

Thomas Frank has said he only wants to sign players who are desperate to play for Tottenham, after Eberechi Eze snubbed the club for Arsenal.

Eze was set to move to Spurs before Arsenal stepped up their interest following an injury to forward Kai Havertz. The Gunners matched Tottenham’s bid for the Crystal Palace midfielder and Eze, who was released by Arsenal aged 13, chose the Emirates Stadium as his new home.

The blow leaves Frank with few attacking options. Richarlison scored two goals against Burnley last weekend and is set to continue in attack at Manchester City on Saturday, while new signing Mohammed Kudus made an impressive league debut. Mathys Tel and Brennan Johnson are also options on the wings, and Dominic Solanke is fit, but injuries to James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski, and the departure of Heung min-Son, leave Spurs short of resources.

Frank is confident the club will make a signing before the transfer deadline on 1 September, and although he didn’t namecheck Eze, the manager laid out what he wants from a new signing.

“Talking generally, to be very, very clear, I don’t want any players that don’t want to come to the club,” Frank said. “If they don’t want to come to the club, to wear this fantastic badge, we don’t want them here.”

Tottenham looked slick in their 3-0 win over newly promoted Burnley and Frank insisted he is happy enough with his options, while admitting there is a need for more.

“I think we just played the first game and scored three goals so I think that was pretty promising. Kudus has that spark and creativity. I think Mathys Tel can play in different positions. Dom [Solanke] and Richy [Richarlison] can score goals and Brennan [Johnson] is our deep runner. We have variations.

“Of course we need to do everything we can [in the transfer market]. We have six good front players that is very competitive. Kulusevski will come back this season, probably longer term with Maddison. I am also confident we will sign a player before the end of the window.”

Frank said Richarlison, who has been linked with an exit this summer, will not be leaving the club. “Right now he is my starting nine. He scored two top goals. Richy wants to stay, I want to keep him and there’s been no talks about anything else.”

As well as Maddison and Kulusevski, Spurs are also without Radu Dragusin, Manor Solomon, Destiny Udogie, Yves Bissouma and Bryan Gil for the trip to City.

“Destiny is better and trained with the team twice, full training, just too short to be involved against City,” Frank said. “We want him to train tomorrow and get another week. Bissouma is also out. Kulusevski is out for some time and I don't want to put a timeframe on it.”

Next article

Liveupdated

Transfer news live: Eze to undergo Arsenal medical, Spurs scramble to sign alternative, Isak to Liverpool update

The latest transfers, gossip and rumours as deadline day begins to pull into view

Arsenal have dramatically stolen Eberechi Eze from Tottenham’s grasp and are set to sign the England international after he bid farewell to Crystal Palace last night.

The Gunners moved quickly after the news that Kai Havertz damaged his knee in their win over Manchester United, and look set to complete a transfer worth £60m and £7.5m in add-ons – pretty much exactly Eze’s release clause, which expired for this window last Thursday. Spurs are now in a late scramble for a new attacker as the deadline looms.

Alexander Isak’s explosive statement this week accused Newcastle United of “broken promises” and “lost trust”, with Liverpool still strongly linked with a move for the Swedish striker. The Reds’ offer of £110m fell short of Newcastle’s valuation and the North East club issued a statement of their own saying conditions for a sale were unlikely to be met before the transfer window deadline.

Elsewhere, Manchester United continue to endure frustration with their goalkeeper situation, and could yet rival Manchester City for Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, while striker Rasmus Hojlund could be on his way to Napoli. Chelsea are closing in on Brighton winger Julio Enciso and are still working on a deal for United’s Alejandro Garnacho.

Follow all the latest transfer news, gossip, rumours and done deals in The Independent’s live blog below:

Tottenham turn to new attacking targets

It’s not been a great week for Tottenham. After missing out on Eberechi Eze to rivals Arsenal, there are reports that Dejan Kulusevski has been ruled out until 2026, to add to James Maddison’s injury absence.

The Independent understands that Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche is their latest target, while Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, Southampton’s Tyler Dibling, RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons and Como’s Nico Paz have been discussed.

A bid of around £67m for Manchester City’s Savinho has faltered.

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 10:30

Mikel Arteta to speak this afternoon ahead of Eberechi Eze transfer

Mikel Arteta will appear at a press conference at 1:30pm this afternoon and could by then be in position to confirm Arsenal’s deal for Eberechi Eze, with the Crystal Palace star reportedly undergoing a medical at their London Colney training centre this morning.

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 10:20

Oliver Glasner angry at Crystal Palace transfer window ahead of Eberechi Eze exit

Oliver Glasner has slated Crystal Palace’s transfer window with Eberechi Eze’s exit to Arsenal imminent and no quality replacement lined up.

“I can’t do anything,” fumed a helpless Glasner. “I can’t sign a player’s contract. We have to act. We need this. This is Crystal Palace’s future. It’s easy to add numbers, we need to add the right players.

“The profile has been defined for months, for months. Also it’s not surprising for everyone that Ebs left, because five days earlier we couldn’t have done anything if he leaves (due to his release clause).

“We knew that this chance is very high that this would happen, and honestly, I say it like it is, we missed the chance to replace him early enough. That’s completely our fault, and nobody else’s fault.”

Oliver Glasner angry at Crystal Palace transfer window ahead of Eberechi Eze exit

Eze is on the verge of a move to Arsenal but Palace have done next to nothing in terms of bringing in players this summer

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 10:10

Ruben Dias signs new long-term Manchester City contract

Ruben Dias has signed a contract extension to keep him at Manchester City until 2029.

The centre-back’s new deal has an option for an extra year which would mean that he spends a decade at the Etihad Stadium. Dias, whose previous deal was due to expire in 2027, said he could not imagine playing anywhere else.

The Portugal international said: “I am incredibly happy today. I’m so proud to represent this great club. City are where I want to be – at the top of the sport, competing for trophies. The club’s ambition aligns perfectly with mine and as a footballer there is nothing better than that.”

Richard Jolly22 August 2025 10:00

Alexander Isak has destabilised Newcastle and now Liverpool can inflict further damage

As Alexander Isak remains unavailable, Newcastle are being destabilised and damaged during an unhappy impasse - and Liverpool have ensured the striker cannot again torment their defence.

But will he get his move to Liverpool before the deadline?

Isak has destabilised Newcastle and now Liverpool can inflict further damage

Newcastle host Liverpool on Monday night, a fixture framed by the striker who has dominated the summer transfer window

Richard Jolly22 August 2025 09:49

Eddie Howe responds to Alexander Isak’s claim Newcastle broke promises over Liverpool transfer

Eddie Howe has described Alexander Isak’s statement accusing Newcastle of breaking promises over his desired transfer to Liverpool as a “sad moment”.

More here:

Eddie Howe responds to Alexander Isak’s claim Newcastle broke promises over transfer

The Newcastle manager insists he still wants Isak to be part of his squad this season despite the Swedish striker’s statement accusing the club of going back on their word

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 09:44

Alexander Isak won't be involved against Liverpool, Eddie Howe confirms

So confirmation from Eddie Howe that Alexander Isak won’t play against Liverpool on Monday night as the striker pushes for a move away before the transfer deadline.

But Howe made it clear that he wants Isak to stay at the club and said there is a route for the striker to play for Newcastle again if he remains at the club after the deadline.

Isak hit out at Newcastle earlier this week over “broken promises” regarding his future. Liverpool are yet to submit a second bid for the 25-year-old.

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 09:42

Eddie Howe latest on Alexander Isak transfer saga: 'I want him back'

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is speaking at a press conference this morning, where he has responded to Alexander Isak’s statement on social media this week.

“It was a sad moment,” Howe said. "My preference is these things do not happen publicly. They are better dealt with behind closed doors. But needs must.

“The club has spoken and justifiably so in that moment. He’s contracted to us. He’s our player. My wish is that he would be playing on Monday [against Liverpool]. He won’t be and that’s regrettable.

“But 100 per cent I want him back in a Newcastle shirt.”

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 09:34

Brentford turn down Newcastle's bid for Yoane Wissa

Newcastle want to sign a striker, or two, before even considering the idea that Alexander Isak will be allowed to leave the club this summer.

But they have been frustrated in their attempts to sign Yoane Wissa from Brentford, with a bid of £40m turned down for the striker.

Wissa did not play for Brentford last weekend and has taken an Isak-style approach to get his move.

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 09:30

Crystal Palace turn to new targets after Eberechi Eze move

Crystal Palace could respond to losing out on Eberechi Eze by targeting Southampton winger Tyler Dibling, who has been linked to several Premier League clubs this summer.

Palace have been linked to a £35m-plus bid, according to Givemesport, after interest from Everton and Tottenham in the teenager.

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 09:15

Tottenham Hotspur have made Morgan Rogers a priority target after missing out on Eberechi Eze, and contact has already been made with intermediaries to see if a deal is possible.

Aston Villa do not want to sell a young star who on Tuesday won PFA Young Player of the Year, but there is a feeling that a proper bid might change things, especially as the Birmingham club continue to face PSR constraints.

One huge obstacle for Spurs is that Rogers is expected to cost considerably more than Eze, given that he has a contract until 2030. While figures of £80m have already been mentioned in Spurs circles, it might have to go even higher to make Villa think.

This all comes amid increasing pressure on the Tottenham hierarchy, after the high-profile nature in which they missed out on both Morgan Gibbs-White at Nottingham Forest and Eze. There is also a pressing need for attacking players, after the injury to James Maddison.

Villa see Rogers as their club star, but they have had a situation where the wage bill was recently over 90 per cent of revenue, which led to a Uefa fine of £9.5m for breaching financial rules. They also have to comply with settlement restrictions on the registration of new players, unless the value of new signings is recouped in sales.

Spurs’s interest comes after a bid of around £67m for Manchester City’s Savinho has faltered, although as we revealed earlier, the club also have a number of other attacking targets on their list.

They ideally want to get Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche and one other attacker in to fill the hole left by Eze’s move to their north London rivals.

There are still several targets available, albeit with Spurs having lost their leverage now that every club knows they need to do business, and in addition to the Akliouche interest, an approach has been made for Southampton’s Tyler Dibling, and the possibility of Xavi Simons has been discussed, after the Leipzig player’s move to Chelsea stalled.

The Independent has also been told that Spurs had looked at reviving interest in Conor Gallagher, but there is a feeling that his wages at Atletico Madrid are too high, and many close to the situation feel Como’s Nico Paz is the most achievable transfer.

Tottenham Hotspur are trying to get Maghnes Akliouche and one other attacker in, as the club was left scrambling to find a solution after being gazumped by Arsenal for Eberechi Eze.

There is genuine shock at White Hart Lane about how the transfer played out, with all of that amid considerable supporter unrest and pressure, especially after the injury to James Maddison. Spurs have now lost out on two major transfers late into negotiations, after Morgan Gibbs-White decided to stay at Nottingham Forest.

There are still a number of targets available, albeit with Spurs having lost their leverage as every club knows they need to do business.

While The Independent first reported the Akliouche interest on Tuesday, other overtures have been made in the 24 hours since it became apparent they were going to lose out on Eze.

An approach has been made for Southampton’s Tyler Dibling, and the possibility of Xavi Simons has been discussed, as the Leipzig player’s move to Chelsea stalls.

The Independent has also been told that Spurs did look at reviving interest in Conor Gallagher, but there is a feeling that his wages at Atletico Madrid are much too high.

Many close to the situation feel Como's Nico Paz is the most achievable transfer, and movement on that is expected over Thursday.

Spurs are one of a few clubs to have a long-standing interest in Morgan Rogers, amid the belief that Aston Villa would consider a deal at the right price due to PSR constraints. That would be upward of £80m, however, and a much lower fee than that – at around £67m – has already seen a move for Manchester City’s Savinho falter.

Next article

Liveupdated

Transfer news live: Arsenal book Eze medical, Newcastle’s Wissa bid rejected, Chelsea to sign Enciso, Isak latest

The latest transfers, gossip and rumours as deadline day begins to pull into view

Arsenal have dramatically stolen Eberechi Eze from Tottenham’s grasp after acting decisively following a major injury blow to Kai Havertz. The Gunners moved quickly after the news that Havertz damaged his knee in their win over Manchester United, and look set to complete a transfer worth £60m and £7.5m in add-ons – pretty much exactly Eze’s release clause, which expired for this window last Thursday. Spurs are now searching for a new attacker as the deadline looms with Manchester City winger Savinho remaining a target.

Alexander Isak’s explosive statement this week accused Newcastle United of “broken promises” and “lost trust”, with Liverpool still strongly linked with a move for the Swedish striker. The Reds’ offer of £110m fell short of Newcastle’s valuation and the North East club issued a statement of their own saying conditions for a sale were unlikely to be met before the transfer window deadline. Newcastle have missed out on a raft of strikers and their latest bid, offering £40m to Brentford for Yoane Wissa, has also been rejected.

Elsewhere, Manchester United continue to endure frustration with their goalkeeper situation, and could yet rival Manchester City for Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, while striker Rasmus Hojlund could be on his way to Napoli. Chelsea are closing in on Brighton winger Julio Enciso and are still working on a deal for United’s Alejandro Garnacho, Leeds are set to announce AC Milan’s Noah Okafor, and Nottingham Forest are close to completing a deal for Douglas Luiz from Juventus.

Follow all the latest transfer news, gossip, rumours and done deals in The Independent’s live blog below:

Why Alexander Isak may have closed his own window on dream move to Liverpool

It was only minutes after the PFA team of the year departed the stage at Manchester Opera House on Tuesday, with just 10 players rather than 11, that Alexander Isak decided to make his presence felt in a different way.

You could sense the ripple around the room as people began to animatedly tell each other of the Swede’s social statement, the first time that he has publicly spoken on this summer’s dominant saga.

More than a few players raised their eyebrows. Everyone was taking it in.

Why Alexander Isak may have closed his own window on dream move to Liverpool

Alexander Isak is desperate to move to Liverpool but as the transfer deadline nears, the balance of power is shifting

Miguel Delaney21 August 2025 09:25

Newcastle hint at Alexander Isak decision in response to striker’s bombshell statement

Newcastle United have rejected Alexander Isak’s claim that he was told he could leave this summer and hinted at no future deal for an exit materialising in the closing stages of the transfer window.

The saga turned ugly earlier this week with the Swedish striker accusing the club of “broken promises” and maintaining that “trust is lost” between the parties.

Now the Magpies have hit back.

Newcastle hint at Alexander Isak decision in response to striker’s statement

The striker made claims over ‘broken promises’ on Tuesday night with the transfer saga turning ugly in the closing stages of the window

Richard Jolly21 August 2025 09:10

How Arsenal silently hijacked Spurs’ Eberechi Eze transfer well before anyone knew

Just hours before Arsenal clinched a deal for Eberechi Eze, somewhat cruelly, Tottenham Hotspur finally put in the offer they felt would be acceptable to Crystal Palace. There had been a verbal agreement. Spurs just never got a proper answer.

After days of difficult and painstaking negotiations between Daniel Levy and Steve Parish, Arsenal had appeared to steal in within a matter of mere hours. That has already seen this move cast as the mother of all transfer hijackings, especially with how it is another North London derby victory.

Except, The Independent can now reveal it wasn’t really a hijacking at all.

Read Miguel Delaney’s exclusive on how the late-night Eze drama really went down:

How Arsenal silently hijacked Spurs’ Eberechi Eze deal well before anyone knew

Exclusive: It seemed the Gunners swooped past their North London rivals on Wednesday, but they made their move much earlier than that

Luke Baker21 August 2025 08:58

Eze medical booked for Friday

So, to the next stage of the Eze transfer to Arsenal – his medical. That’s reportedly been booked for Friday, after Crystal Palace’s Conference League match this evening.

Eze was set to play in that clash against Fredrikstad when rumours were swirling about his future but we’ll have to wait and see if that’s still the case.

The initial sense is that he will still pay but can Arsenal stop that happening ahead of this evening?

Luke Baker21 August 2025 08:43

Man City still interested in Rodrygo

Savinho to Spurs, Rodrygo to City? This would be an interesting exchange, should it happen...

Lawrence Ostlere21 August 2025 08:36

Chelsea set to sign Enciso from Brighton

Chelsea are closing in on signing Brighton’s Julio Enciso.

The Athletic reports that Enciso is about to join Chelsea but will initially go on loan to sister club Strasbourg.

Agreements have been made with both club and player for his transfer.

Lawrence Ostlere21 August 2025 08:22

Napoli open talks to sign Hojlund

Napoli have begun talks with Manchester United to sign Rasmus Hojlund.

The striker would prefer to stay at United, Fabrizio Romano reports, but has accepted that he may have to leave after Benjamin Sesko joined the club.

Hojluns is pushing for any loan move to include an obligation to buy, so he can be assured of a long-term switch.

Lawrence Ostlere21 August 2025 08:02

Brentford reject Newcastle's £40m Wissa bid

Brentford have rejected a £40m bid from Newcastle for striker Yoane Wissa.

Wissa is determined to make the switch to St James’ Park, according to the Athletic. but Brentford would prefer to keep the goalscorer after selling his partner in crime last season, Bryan Mbeumo, to Manchester United.

Newcastle will have to come back with more than their £35m + £5m add-ons offer to prise him away.

Lawrence Ostlere21 August 2025 07:48

Arsenal swoop to sign Eze from under Spurs' noses

We start with the stunning news that Arsenal have hijacked Tottenham’s move to sign Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace.

Eze had seemed increasingly likely to join Spurs over recent days, as chair Daniel Levy negotiated with his counterpart Steve Parish over the finer details of the deal. Eze had indicated that he was keen to join Tottenham and Palace had been searching for a replacement.

But that picture changed yesterday after Arsenal discovered the extent of Kai Havertz’s injury, pushing the Gunners into action. They are not only prepared to match Tottenham’s offer of around £60m, but are also prepared to make faster payments that appeal to Palace as they try to find their search for a new attacker.

Here’s Miguel Delaney with all the latest:

Arsenal reignite interest in Eberechi Eze after Kai Havertz injury setback

The Gunners look to hijack Tottenham’s attempts to sign the Crystal Palace winger in desire to strengthen their forward line

Lawrence Ostlere21 August 2025 07:40

Good morning!

Welcome to The Independent’s coverage of transfer news, rumours and gossip.

Throughout the day we’ll have all the latest updates, and completed deals.

Let’s get into it...

Mike Jones21 August 2025 07:30

Just hours before Arsenal clinched a deal for Eberechi Eze, somewhat cruelly, Tottenham Hotspur finally put in the offer they felt would be acceptable to Crystal Palace. There had been a verbal agreement. Spurs just never got a proper answer.

After days of difficult and painstaking negotiations between Daniel Levy and Steve Parish, Arsenal had appeared to steal in within a matter of mere hours. That has already seen this move cast as the mother of all transfer hijackings, especially with how it is another North London derby victory.

Except, it wasn’t really a hijacking at all. The Independent can now reveal that Arsenal had actually struck the principles of an agreement with Palace as early as the morning of Sunday 10 August. They managed to keep it extraordinarily quiet, as illustrated by how it was only after Wednesday evening’s sensations that multiple sources were willing to talk about it.

There was also the fact that, in those nine days, it didn’t look like Arsenal would follow through on that agreement. The word put out was that they wanted to sell before any other purchase, and that they preferred a left winger. Interest in Eze was repeatedly played down. There had been a lot of mixed messages, which fit with the whole summer as regards Arsenal and the Palace star.

Levy might certainly feel that now. The situation has led to some surprising sympathy for the Spurs chairman within the game. Their own negotiations for Eze had encountered repeated difficulties, as first reported by The Independent on Saturday night. The problems actually preceded that. Talks almost collapsed the Thursday before, and there were constant hold-ups over issues like add-ons and how much was being paid up front. Just when one issue was solved, another would arise.

One description over the last few days was that “the deal is both almost done and constantly at the point of collapse”. There is now a belief, especially within Spurs, that Palace were stalling. They were waiting for Arsenal to come back, since competition would mean getting a better price.

It nevertheless looked so remote by Saturday that Eze himself had accepted Arsenal wasn’t going to happen. He even spoke to Parish to try and get his move sorted, as Levy and the Palace chairman met on Monday morning. Eze was genuinely excited about joining Tottenham. It just wasn’t the one he really wanted. His dream was a move to Arsenal.

That suddenly looked like it would become a reality on Wednesday morning. Arsenal finally acted on that deal. That shift will be linked to Kai Havertz’s injury but there is actually hope the German's absence won't be that long, maybe less than three months. The Havertz development just accelerated everything. Arsenal wanted to make sure they didn’t miss out.

Parish and Arsenal executive vice-chairman Tim Lewis have a closer relationship than Parish and Levy, even if they often bicker. They WhatsApp a lot about regulations and other in-game issues. That helped by Wednesday, especially given that Sunday 10 August agreement.

Arsenal also have more players they can offer who Palace need. It is possible a deal is next done for Jakub Kiwior, given how Oliver Glasner’s side need a centre-half on that side.

Everything could happen very quickly.

Arsenal, for their part, still had to pay more than the initial agreement. That was to ensure it actually got done over Spurs. Whereas the previous deal had been for £50m plus £10m in add-ons, this is for £60m and £7.5m in add-ons – pretty much exactly Eze’s release clause, which expired for this window on Thursday. It is understood to have been superior to Spurs’ offer.

Parish played that part masterfully. He got the best possible deal for his club, which was the best-case scenario if you’re forced to lose one of the greatest legends in your club history. Eze did just deliver the first major trophy in the club’s trophy. Queens Park Rangers will also be celebrating, since they stand to receive 15 per cent of any deal. The Loftus Road hierarchy are now aiming to complete more business of their own, as they are set to receive more money than they’ve had in years.

Eze has ultimately preferred Arsenal because they offer better opportunities for more trophies than the FA Cup – that he can prove a missing piece for – but also because of that dream. The connection was there. When Eze posted on instagram on 26 May celebrating Palace’s FA Cup success, the fifth and last picture was a conspicuous image of Ian Wright.

It is still to be confirmed whether Eze will play in the Europa Conference League play-off against Fredrikstad on Thursday. There would obviously be romance in this club hero putting in the performance that properly delivers Palace to Europe, while also getting the opportunity for an emotional goodbye.

Except, amid all this talk of dreams, a realism must exist. This is a huge transfer, with a lot of money at stake.

Levy knows the cost of that now. He will face even greater questions having lost out on two big transfers late on this summer, after Morgan Gibbs-White. Fan protests at Spurs are likely to heat up again.

Arsenal have meanwhile signed a game-changer, in the way that some felt might be missing against Liverpool’s and Manchester City's business. They’ve now pulled off the deal of the summer. It could be hugely significant in the season.

Next article

Liveupdated

Transfer news live: Arsenal target new striker after huge injury blow, Liverpool’s Isak stance, Eze to Spurs update

The latest transfers, gossip and rumours as deadline day begins to pull into view

Arsenal are reportedly in the market for another new striker after a major injury blow to Kai Havertz.

The transfer market is hotting up with one forward in the centre of the market, Alexander Isak, changing the tone of his saga late on Tuesday night with an explosive statement. He accused Newcastle United of “broken promises” and “lost trust” with Liverpool still strongly linked with a move for the Swedish striker.

The Reds’ offer of £110m fell well short of Newcastle’s valuation with the deadline for the transfer window now fast approaching, but the player has three more years on his contract, retaining some leverage for Eddie Howe’s side.

The Premier League champions are still linked with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, too, with the England defender a year away from becoming a free agent, though the FA Cup holders have stood firm on a valuation, despite the difficult situation.

Eberechi Eze’s potential move to Tottenham Hotspur also dominates the closing stretch of the window, though the deal is edging closer with Palace negotiating a suitable payment structure in a deal worth more than £55m.

Manchester United continue to endure frustration with their goalkeeper situation, and could rival Manchester City for Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Follow all the latest transfer news, gossip, rumours and done deals in The Independent’s live blog below:

Gary Neville on Manchester United's 'glaring issue'

The former Manchester United captain and Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville has picked out a ‘glaring issue’ that the club need to solve during the transfer window.

He said: “There is a glaring issue for United that can't be ignored, and that is that they need to find a goalkeeper, they have to. I am absolutely unequivocal on that.

“It's really unsettling when you don't have a dominant No1 who is dominant in the air, who makes a lot of saves in one on one and saves you points when your defenders make mistakes.

“They might have to magic up some more money in the next week or two or do something on loan.”

Mike Jones20 August 2025 14:28

Kai Havertz injury blow forces Arsenal into transfer rethink

Arsenal have suffered a bitter blow with Kai Havertz having picked up a knee injury, causing a rethink of their remaining transfer plans this summer.

According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Havertz is set for a spell on the sidelines after suffering the issue and is now undergoing assessments to determine the extent of the injury. Given these are still at an early stage, the prognosis and how long he will be out for is still unclear.

Kai Havertz injury blow forces Arsenal into transfer rethink

Havertz has sustained a knee injury, with a spell on the sidelines set to cause a problem for Mikel Arteta

Mike Jones20 August 2025 14:08

Douglas Luiz closing in on Forest move

Douglas Luiz is on his way to Nottingham Forest.

The Brazilian made 27 appearances for Juventus last season, after switching from Aston Villa, but struggled to hold down a place in the starting XI.

And his time at Forest appears to be over, says Fabrizio Romano.

Lawrence Ostlere20 August 2025 13:28

Fulham forward set to extend contract

Rodrigo Muniz is set to sign a new contract at Fulham, reports Miguel Delaney.

The Brazilian striker, who scored the late equaliser at Brighton last weekend to earn the Cottagers a point, was linked with a move to Atalanta.

But Muniz, after Fulham knocked back a £35m bid for the 23-year-old, is now set to remain at Craven Cottage for the foreseeable future.

Miguel Delaney20 August 2025 13:08

Leeds close in on Swiss forward Okafor

Leeds are set to confirm the arrival of Swiss international forward Noah Okafor.

The 25-year-old scored seven goals in 54 games for AC Milan.

Lawrence Ostlere20 August 2025 12:46

Kai Havertz out with knee injury

Arsenal’s Kai Havertz faces a spell on the sidelines after picking up a knee injury reports David Ornstein.

The striker missed Arsenal’s open training session on Wednesday morning and is undergoing assessments to determine the extent of the injury.

With the transfer window still open, Arsenal have time to strengthen their attack in the absence of Havertz.

Viktor Gyokeres and Leandro Trossard are the only attackers available as Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are both injured.

Mike Jones20 August 2025 12:36

Thi is perhaps a slightly surprising development – Galatasaray are pushing to sign Manuel Akanji.

Akanji has become an integral part of Manchester City’s defence, intelligent and versatile in what he offers across the back line. But Pep Guardiola is open to the move as he bids to reduce the City squad before the deadline, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Negotiations underway but no agreements in place yet.

Lawrence Ostlere20 August 2025 12:24

Fofana deletes Chelsea references from social media amid transfer speculation

File this one under ‘the way of the modern world’, for better or worse... A lot of people are getting very excited because Wesley Fofana has deleted all references to Chelsea from his Instagram account.

Fofana has struggled at Stamford Bridge since his £75m move from Leicester three years ago mainly due to injuries and was only on the bench for Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Crystal Palace despite the absence of Levi Colwill – with youngster Josh Acheampong and Trevoh Chalobah preferred at centre-back.

He has now sparked further rumours of a departure from the Blues by removing all mention of the club from his Instagram, in a similar move to the one employed by wantaway stars Alexander Isak (Newcastle) and Yoane Wissa (Brentford) this summer.

Luke Baker20 August 2025 12:06

Man United want Sevilla star

Carlos Baleba from Brighton may still be Ruben Amorim’s preferred midfield general at Manchester United but Sevilla’s Lucien Agoume is being lined up as an alternative.

According to Spanish outlet Orgullobiri, Sevilla are asking for around £25m for the former France Under-21 star, which is less than the £35m release clause in his contract.

The 23-year-old joined Sevilla in January 2024 after struggling at Inter Milan and was a regular as they narrowly escaped LaLiga relegation last season before impressing at the European Under-21 Championships this summer.

Other Premier League sides are also said to be interested in Agoume, although Arsenal’s previous interest is likely to have cooled after the signing of Martin Zubimendi.

Luke Baker20 August 2025 11:55

Dibling an option for Palace as Eze replacement

We reported earlier that Crystal Palace have identified Leicester star Bilal El Khannouss as a replacement for Eberechi Eze should he complete his £60m move to Tottenham but the Eagles are also looking at other options.

One of those is Southampton midfielder Tyler Dibling, according to talkSPORT.

Dibling has attracted plenty of Premier League interest since Southampton’s relegation to the Championship, with Everton having three bids turned down earlier in the window.

The 19-year-old would be a more expensive option than El Khannouss, with the Saints valuing him at £45m+, but Palace are long-term admirers after having a bid rejected for him back in January.

Luke Baker20 August 2025 11:40

Next article

Liveupdated

Transfer news live: Newcastle hint at Isak decision after bombshell statement, Spurs near Eze deal

The latest transfers, gossip and rumours as the deadline begins to pull into view, with Alexander Isak, Eberechi Eze and Alejandro Garnacho linked with big-money moves

Alexander Isak changed the tone of his transfer saga late on Tuesday night with an explosive statement, accusing Newcastle United of “broken promises” and “lost trust” with Liverpool still strongly linked with a move for the Swedish striker.

The Reds’ offer of £110m fell well short of Newcastle’s valuation with the deadline for the transfer window now fast approaching, but the player has three more years on his contract, retaining some leverage for Eddie Howe’s side.

The Premier League champions are still linked with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, too, with the England defender a year away from becoming a free agent, though the FA Cup holders have stood firm on a valuation, despite the difficult situation.

Arne Slot’s side have the funds to buy again, with the boost of a £25m sale of Ben Doak to Bournemouth. While Eberechi Eze’s potential move to Tottenham Hotspur also dominates the closing stretch of the window, though the deal is edging closer with Palace negotiating a suitable payment structure in a deal worth more than £55m.

Manchester United continue to endure frustration with their goalkeeper situation, and could rival Manchester City for Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Follow all the latest transfer news, gossip, rumours and done deals in The Independent’s live blog below:

Bayern hit trouble in Nkunku pursuit to delay Chelsea deal for Simons

Bayern Munich have encountered trouble in their pursuit of Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku.

A deal for the 27-year-old has stalled, reports the Guardian.

And the knock-on effect is that it has delayed Chelsea's attempts to sign RB Leipzig's 22-year-old Dutch midfielder Xavi Simons.

Jack Rathborn20 August 2025 08:31

Bournemouth sign Liverpool winger Ben Doak in deal worth up to £25million

Bournemouth have completed the signing of winger Ben Doak from Premier League rivals Liverpool in a deal worth up to £25million.

The 19-year-old Scotland international has agreed a five-year contract at Vitality Stadium.

Doak spent last season on loan at Championship club Middlesbrough, scoring three goals and registering seven assists in 24 appearances.

Bournemouth are understood to have paid an initial £20m and could spend a further £5m in add-ons as they reinvest some of the funds received from a series of lucrative summer departures.

Forward Dango Ouattara finalised a £42.5m move to Brentford at the weekend, while the south-coast club had already sold defenders Illia Zabarnyi, Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez to Paris St Germain, Real Madrid and Liverpool respectively for a total of around £150m.

Jack Rathborn20 August 2025 08:21

Lionesses star Michelle Agyemang leaves Arsenal on loan to join another WSL club

Arsenal’s Michelle Agyemang has rejoined Brighton on loan for the 2025/26 Women’s Super League season following her breakout summer with England at Euro 2025.

Agyemang, 19. scored twice at the tournament and was named best young player as the Lionesses defeated Spain to retain their European title in Switzerland.

She spent last season on loan at Brighton, scoring five goals, as she earned a surprise call-up to Sarina Wiegman’s England squad and then rescued the Lionesses against Sweden in the quarter-finals and Italy in the semi-finals.

Lionesses star Michelle Agyemang leaves Arsenal on loan to join another WSL club

The 19-year-old striker has rejoined Brighton on loan ahead of the new WSL campaign

Jack Rathborn20 August 2025 08:10

Newcastle hint at Alexander Isak decision

summer and hinted at no future deal for an exit materialising in the closing stages of the transfer window.

The saga turned ugly on Tuesday evening with the Swedish striker accusing the club of “broken promises” and maintaining that “trust is lost” between the parties.

But the Carabao Cup winners hit back with their own strongly-worded statement, hitting Isak’s hopes of a move to Liverpool, who had a £110m bid rejected earlier this summer, by underlining that they “do not foresee those conditions [of a sale] being met]” before the deadline.

A club statement read: “We are disappointed to have been alerted to a social media post by Alexander Isak this evening. We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer.

Newcastle hint at Alexander Isak decision in response to striker’s statement

The striker made claims over ‘broken promises’ on Tuesday night with the transfer saga turning ugly in the closing stages of the window

Jack Rathborn20 August 2025 08:01

Leeds in talks over AC Milan forward as Daniel Farke makes transfer priority clear

Leeds are advancing in talks with AC Milan for Noah Okafor as Daniel Farke looks to strengthen his forward line.

The promoted club have made eight summer signings but want to add to their attack and are progressing in their attempts to sign the Switzerland winger.

Okafor, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Napoli, could join the exodus from AC Milan after Tijjani Reijnders, Theo Hernandez and Malick Thiaw were sold.

Leeds in talks over AC Milan forward as Daniel Farke makes transfer priority clear

Noah Okafor could join free signings Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha at the club as Farke strengthens his forward line

Jack Rathborn20 August 2025 07:50

Wrexham close in on £8m deal for Man City starlet Callum Doyle

Wrexham are closing in on an £8m deal for Manchester City defender Callum Doyle that would take their summer spending past £30m.

The 21-year-old is set to become Phil Parkinson’s 10th summer signing while City continue to trim their squad and bring in money by selling youth-team products.

Centre-back Doyle would become the second biggest buy in Wrexham’s history after Nathan Broadhead joined from Ipswich last week in a move that could cost up to £10m.

Wrexham close in on £8m deal for Man City starlet

The England Under-21 international enjoyed a loan spell with Norwich last season but is now poised to depart the Etihad Stadium on a permanent deal

Jack Rathborn20 August 2025 07:36

Spurs also line up Savinho alternative

Tottenham Hotspur have identified Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche as a new target due to the lofty asking price for Manchester City’s Savinho.

In addition to the pursuit of Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, Spurs have looked at the Brazilian winger, who was omitted from the City squad for the Premier League opener at Wolves last weekend due to an injury sustained in a friendly with Palermo, though the 21-year-old faces stiff competition this season to play every week under Pep Guardiola.

City can also call on Jeremy Doku, Phil Foden, Rayan Cherki, Omar Marmoush, Oscar Bobb and Claudio Echeverri to play out wide, though Savinho remains highly-rated by the club since joining from Troyes for £30.8m in 2024.

Tottenham identify Monaco star as Savinho alternative

The French attacking midfielder could emerge as a target with Manchester City holding firm on the Brazilian winger after Spurs registered two bids

Jack Rathborn20 August 2025 07:35

Tottenham edge closer to Eberechi Eze deal with Crystal Palace – but key obstacle remains

Tottenham Hotspur have edged closer to a deal to sign Eberechi Eze after encountering difficulties over the weekend in negotiations with Crystal Palace.

The FA Cup holders have made a request over the payment structure of the transfer, with a proposed deal for the England international discussed at £55m plus add-ons.

Another round of negotiations concluded on Monday afternoon, and while no compromise has been reached, there is a feeling that talks are progressing towards an agreement, with the final details over how the sum will be paid between the clubs.

Tottenham edge closer to Eberechi Eze deal with key obstacle remaining

The England international is the subject of interest from Spurs, but featured in Palace’s Premier League opener against Chelsea on Sunday, highlighting that significant work was still needed to complete a deal between the London clubs

Jack Rathborn20 August 2025 07:35

Liverpool set deadline in pursuit of Alexander Isak

The saga that has rolled on for most of the summer concerns Alexander Isak, Newcastle and Liverpool.

The Premier League champions submitted a £110m bid for Newcastle’s main forward but that was rejected out of hand and the Reds moved to sign Hugo Ekitike.

They have remained interested in Isak but the weekend’s results prove that Newcastle need his services more than Liverpool do.

The latest in this move is that Liverpool have made Isak their priority for the closing weeks of the window but want the deal done sooner than later.

They’ve set a deadline of next week to get an agreement done with Newcastle otherwise they will move on to other targets.

Jack Rathborn20 August 2025 07:34

Alexander Isak accuses Newcastle of ‘broken promises’ over transfer saga

Alexander Isak has accused Newcastle of breaking promises to him and has said his relationship with the club is damaged beyond repair and that it is in everyone’s best interests he leaves.

The striker tried to force through a move before the end of the transfer window by claiming the Carabao Cup holders had long known what he wanted to do and claimed his private conversations with them had been misrepresented.

Liverpool had a £110m bid for Isak swiftly rejected by Newcastle, whose stance has been that the Sweden international is not for sale, while the Premier League champions have claimed they will not return with a second offer.

Alexander Isak accuses Newcastle of ‘broken promises’ over transfer saga

The striker said a move away was ‘in the best interests of everyone’ after a loss of trust between him and the club

Jack Rathborn20 August 2025 07:34

Next article

Liveupdated

Transfer news live: Arsenal and Spurs in Eze update, Newcastle identify Isak replacement, new club in for Chelsea cast-off

The latest transfers, gossip and rumours as the deadline begins to pull into view, with Alexander Isak, Eberechi Eze and Alejandro Garnacho linked with big-money moves

Liverpool still hope to make additions to their squad before the transfer window closes in September and have two big names on their list of potential signings with the Reds aiming to bring in Newcastle’s Alexander Isak and Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi.

Neither move is particularly close with negotiations ongoing though Isak has stopped training with the Newcastle squad and is keen for the move. The Reds have had a £110m bid rejected for the striker and are considering a second bid having raised more funds by completing a £25m sale of Ben Doak to Bournemouth.

Eberechi Eze’s potential move to Tottenham Hotspur is dominating the closing stretch of the summer transfer window, with Crystal Palace negotiating a suitable payment structure in a deal worth more than £55m but the Eagles are also looking to hold onto Guehi despite Liverpool’s interest.

Manchester United continue to endure frustration with their goalkeeper situation, and could rival Manchester City for Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma having seemingly ended their pursuit of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba who looks set to remain with the Seagulls.

Follow all the latest transfer news, gossip, rumours and done deals in The Independent’s live blog below:

First Sikh manager at professional British club sets out Morecambe ambition

New Morecambe manager Ashvir Singh Johal is determined to create history and guide the club back into the Football League.

Singh Johal has become the first Sikh boss at a professional British club after the Shrimps confirmed his appointment on Tuesday.

The 30-year-old takes over after the dismissal of Derek Adams, who was sacked on Monday, just a day after new owners Punjab Warriors completed the takeover to prevent the club from extinction.

First Sikh manager at pro British club sets out Morecambe ambition

Singh Johal became the first Sikh to take charge of a professional British club when he was named as the Shrimps’ new boss on Tuesday.

Mike Jones20 August 2025 02:00

Ruben Amorim’s surprise answer reveals a new side to Man United manager

An encouraging new beginning in one respect was a false start in another. Ruben Amorim could declare that Manchester United were better than habitual title challengers Arsenal on the day without being accused of bias.

Yet, after a £200m outlay, after a pre-season for a manager who was denied one last year, Amorim’s opening day was not supposed to end with him being asked if he should have picked Tom Heaton.

Ruben Amorim’s surprise answer reveals a new side to Man United manager

A question over goalkeeper Altay Bayindir for Arsenal’s winning goal, with Andre Onana dropped, provoked a curt answer from Ruben Amorim, which, as Richard Jolly explains, hints at a new atmosphere at Manchester United this season

Richard Jolly20 August 2025 00:00

Echeverri to go out on loan

Manchester City have agreed to loan midfielder Claudio Echeverri to Bayer Leverkusen for the season.

The 19-year-old will join the 2024 Bundesliga champions to help replace Florian Wirtz, who has moved to Liverpool for £100m, and as part of Erik ten Hag’s new-look team.

Leverkusen will not have an option to buy Echeverri as part of the deal, with the Argentinian due to return to City next summer.

Mike Jones19 August 2025 23:30

Cristian Romero ends transfer speculation by signing new Tottenham contract

Tottenham captain Cristian Romero has ended uncertainty over his future by signing a new long-term contract at the club.

The 27-year-old Argentina centre-back, who had been heavily linked with a move to Atletico Madrid earlier this summer, was named as Spurs' new skipper on Wednesday following the departure of Son Heung Min.

Cristian Romero ends transfer speculation by signing new Tottenham contract

The Spurs captain and Argentina international has signed a new long-term deal

Mike Jones19 August 2025 23:00

Wolves sign new right-back

Wolves have confirmed the signing of right-back Jackson Tchatchoua.

The 23-year-old Cameroon international joins from Serie A club Hellas Verona and will help fill the void left by Nelson Semedo.

Mike Jones19 August 2025 22:30

Thomas Frank toasts perfect start to Premier League life at Tottenham

Thomas Frank toasted the perfect start to life at Tottenham in the Premier League after a 3-0 win over Burnley, but joked Richarlison already had their goal of the season.

Frank’s managerial debut for Spurs on Wednesday almost ended with silverware, but Paris St Germain fought back from two down late on to clinch Super Cup success on penalties.

Thomas Frank toasts perfect start to Premier League life at Tottenham

Richarlison produced a sensational scissor kick in a 3-0 victory over Burnley.

Mike Jones19 August 2025 22:00

Wrexham close to move for Doyle

Wrexham want to agree a deal for Manchester City centre-back Callum Doyle.

It’s understood a deal worth up to £8m is being discussed by the clubs.

The England U21 international has two years left on his City contract.

Mike Jones19 August 2025 21:30

Tottenham identify Monaco star as Savinho alternative

Tottenham Hotspur have identified Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche as a new target due to the lofty asking price for Manchester City’s Savinho.

In addition to the pursuit of Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, Spurs have looked at the Brazilian winger, who was omitted from the City squad for the Premier League opener at Wolves last weekend due to an injury sustained in a friendly with Palermo, though the 21-year-old faces stiff competition this season to play every week under Pep Guardiola.

Tottenham identify Monaco star as Savinho alternative

The French attacking midfielder could emerge as a target with Manchester City holding firm on the Brazilian winger after Spurs registered two bids

Miguel Delaney19 August 2025 21:00

Sancho turns down Roma move

Jadon Sancho is another player that Manchester United want off their books and they are desperately hoping to secure a move for him this summer.

Fabrizio Romano reports that Sancho has rejected a proposal from the Serie A side and won’t be moving to Italy.

Romano posted on X: “Jadon Sancho’s agent also informed AS Roma of their decision not to accept the proposal.

“Sancho wants to consider other clubs’ proposals and AS Roma will now look at different options.”

Mike Jones19 August 2025 20:30

The Leeds logic behind their ‘magical night’ – and why it could last

Five years ago, Leeds United marked their return to the Premier League with a helter-skelter affair against opposition from Merseyside.

Marcelo Bielsa’s side lost 4-3 to Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool in a classic. In 2025, there was a superficial similarity in the fixture list, none whatsoever in the game but Leeds could savour an outcome they preferred.

Everton were beaten 1-0 and, for the second time in the opening round of games, a promoted club tasted victory.

The Leeds logic behind their ‘magical night’ – and why it could last

Leeds United 1-0 Everton: Lukas Nmecha’s late penalty gives the newly promoted side a perfect start with victory at Elland Road

Richard Jolly19 August 2025 20:00