Sports Mole

Newcastle United have reportedly failed in their approach to sign Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Archie Gray in the current summer transfer window.

The Magpies could be set for a busy transfer window, with a major rebuilding job on the agenda after losing Anthony Gordon to Barcelona and seeing several other key players linked with moves away.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle have submitted an offer to Tottenham for Gray, but Spurs are unwilling to sell the former Leeds United midfielder.

The 20-year-old joined Spurs from Leeds in 2024 for a fee of around £40m and has already played in multiple positions under different Tottenham managers.

Gray has made just over 80 appearances for Spurs, and it is believed that Roberto De Zerbi is impressed by the youngster's versatility and sees him as a key player for the club.

Leeds United explain Pascal Struijk transfer decision

© Imago

The Whites have sold Dutch defender Pascal Struijk to Brighton & Hove Albion for a fee of around £18m during the summer transfer window.

The 26-year-old made 196 appearances for Leeds, including 34 in the Premier League last season, after joining the Yorkshire club from Ajax in January 2018.

Leeds have explained that Struijk's sale has helped the club remain compliant with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules.

The Whites released a lengthy statement confirming that Struijk's transfer fee, along with the additional income generated from a 14th-placed Premier League finish and a run to the FA Cup semi-finals, has ensured the club remain within their PSR limits.

Brighton sold Jan Paul van Hecke to Tottenham earlier this summer, and Struijk is expected to come in as his natural replacement.

Bayern Munich sign Ismael Saibari

© Iconsport / Stanley Gontha, Pro Shots / Alamy

Bayern Munich have secured their first signing of the summer transfer window after confirming the arrival of Moroccan striker Ismael Saibari.

The 25-year-old joins from PSV Eindhoven and has signed a contract with Bayern until June 30, 2031.

Saibari recorded 42 goals and 29 assists in 142 competitive appearances for the Dutch outfit, enjoying a trophy-laden spell that included three Eredivisie titles, three Dutch Super Cups and two KNVB Cups.

The forward has also impressed for Morocco at the 2026 World Cup, scoring in the 1-1 draw with Brazil, the 1-0 win over Scotland and the 4-2 victory over Haiti, before converting the decisive penalty in the Round of 32 win over the Netherlands.

Bayern are also reportedly close to signing Germany full-back Nathaniel Brown, with the deal expected to be completed in the coming days.

Tottenham Hotspur are making the right decision in entrusting Antonin Kinsky ahead of Guglielmo Vicario's expected exit, a former Spurs goalkeeper has exclusively told Sports Mole.

The Lilywhites announced on Tuesday that Kinsky had signed a new contract with the club until 2031, after enjoying an unexpected renaissance in the latter stages of the campaign.

The 23-year-old's Tottenham career was ostensibly close to dead in the water after a nightmarish evening against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, where he made two errors leading to goals and was taken off in the 17th minute.

However, Kinsky took his chance in the Premier League after Vicario underwent hernia surgery, keeping crucial clean sheets against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton while pulling off a save-of-the-season contender against Leeds United.

The Czech shot-stopper started each of Tottenham's last seven Premier League games of the season as Spurs staved off relegation, and he is expected to be Roberto De Zerbi's number one moving forward.

Brad Friedel backs Antonin Kinsky to become Tottenham's number one

© Iconsport / PA Images

Sports Mole recently spoke to ex-Tottenham goalkeeper Brad Friedel, who admitted that he was not surprised at the developments and backed Kinsky to displace Vicario as the established first choice.

"Vicario hasn’t looked comfortable for a while now," Friedel said. "At the end of last season Kinsky looked comfortable in goal, made a few crucial saves and after the night in Madrid, he has bounced back really well.

"I like him. He is imposing, he has confidence, has belief in his own ability and De Zerbi it seems has given him confidence as well. So I do think he can take the number one jersey and show everyone how good a keeper he is."

Despite his strong end to the season with Tottenham, Kinsky was not nominated for the Czech Republic's World Cup 2026 squad, being cut from the final selection after being named in the preliminary team.

What is the latest on Guglielmo Vicario's Tottenham future?

© Iconsport / Fred Dides / Icon Sport

Even though Vicario recovered from his operation in time for the end of the season, De Zerbi left the 29-year-old on the bench in matches against Chelsea and Everton.

Vicario was Tottenham's undisputed number one before undergoing hernia surgery, but during the latter months of the campaign, speculation began to swirl over a return to Italy for the ex-Empoli man.

A move to Juventus is now seen as increasingly likely for Vicario, who is about to enter the final two years of his Spurs contract he signed upon his arrival in 2023, meaning that this summer is Tottenham's best chance to recoup a maximum fee.

Furthermore, Martin Dubravka's arrival on a free transfer from Burnley suggests that De Zerbi is planning for life with Kinsky as his number one, the Slovakian as his number two, and Vicario out of the picture.

The Italian has kept 29 clean sheets in 117 appearances for Tottenham, who paid £15.9m to bring him to North London three years ago.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing USA forward Folarin Balogun from Ligue 1 side Monaco.

After narrowly avoiding relegation last term, Spurs are working to significantly improve their squad to fight in the top half of the Premier League table next term.

Spurs have already splashed out £52m to sign Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton & Hove Albion.

Roberto De Zerbi's side also recruited centre-back Marcos Senesi, left-back Andy Robertson and goalkeeper Martin Dubravka on free transfers.

Tottenham now appear to be looking at strengthening in other positions, including a central midfielder and a striker.

© Iconsport / PA Images

Spurs identify Balogun as top striker target

They are continuing to pursue a deal for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, while they are in the race to sign an Arsenal academy product in their search for a new centre-forward.

According to journalist Santi Aouna, Tottenham have made Monaco's Balogun their priority striker target.

Spurs seemingly view Balogun as someone who can compete with Dominic Solanke and Richarlison for the number nine spot.

That said, it is possible that Richarlison could leave this summer, which would only strengthen Spurs' need to bring in another forward, although they face competition in their pursuit of Balogun.

Tottenham's London rivals, Chelsea, are understood to be among his potential suitors, while he is also 'appreciated' by Champions League winners PSG.

© Iconsport / Newspix

Why is Balogun attracting significant interest?

Balogun has evidently impressed with his performances at Monaco, where he scored 19 goals in 43 competitive games last term.

In fact, he netted in eight consecutive Ligue 1 games from February 21 to April 19, helping his side secure Conference League qualification.

Balogun has since gone on to register three goal contributions in two World Cup appearances for Mauricio Pochettino's USA side.

After being rested in the USA's final group game, Balogun is set to return to the starting lineup for Thursday's Round of 32 clash against Bosnia-Herzegovina.

The striker could drive up his asking price if he continues to perform for the World Cup co-hosts in the knockout rounds.

Tottenham Hotspur have won the race to sign Mateus Fernandes for £85m, with Manchester United unwilling to match the offer, the latest report has claimed.

Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi managed to save the club from Premier League relegation last season, and he will be determined to help the team avoid another campaign in which they battle against the drop.

The Italian has already enjoyed a strong summer window, bringing defenders Andrew Robertson, Marcos Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke to London.

Tottenham have consistently been linked with midfield reinforcements too, with West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes said to be of interest.

David Ornstein has claimed in The Athletic that Spurs have agreed a deal worth a guaranteed £85m with West Ham for Fernandes, with Man United unwilling to part with such a significant sum.

© Iconsport / PA Images

Mateus Fernandes to Spurs: How will Roberto De Zerbi use midfielder?

Fernandes is a rounded midfield talent, capable of contributing at both ends of the pitch, so perhaps his best use would be in a double pivot.

When De Zerbi was last in the Premier League with Brighton & Hove Albion, he deployed Alexis Mac Allister and Moises Caicedo together in midfield frequently, and the duo formed arguably the best partnership in the division.

The Spurs boss could start Fernandes in Mac Allister's role given he is adept in advanced areas, though that would still leave Tottenham needing someone capable of operating in deeper zones.

Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali has often been linked with a move to Spurs, and his athleticism and physicality would prove to be complementary skillsets next to Fernandes.

© Imago / Every Second Media

Tottenham to challenge for the Champions League?

The number one priority for Spurs next term must be to secure European football, but if they manage to completely transform their midfield, they may be in a position to challenge for the top flight's Champions League spots.

De Zerbi's possession-based system relies on consistent progression from deep, and while Tonali is rudimentary on the ball, the likes of Fernandes, Van Hecke and Senesi are strong when asked to play out from the back.

Tonali's ability to screen the defence would then help Spurs pen opponents in, and that would allow attackers to spend more time in the final third.

More additions may be needed, but with so much uncertainty regarding Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea and even Manchester United, there is scope for Tottenham to finish in the top five next term.

Tottenham Hotspur are allegedly just two steps away from sealing the signing of Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali.

Despite Spurs only narrowly avoiding relegation from the Premier League in 2025-26, Roberto De Zerbi is leading a revolution at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Martin Dubravka, Andrew Robertson, Marcos Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke have all been signed over the past month.

However, speculation persists that a far bigger transfer could materialise, with Tonali being targeted by the North Londoners.

According to TEAMtalk, there is the increasing likelihood of Tonali leaving St James' Park for the capital.

© Imago / Every Second Media

What do Spurs need to do to sign Tonali?

The report alleges that personal terms have already been agreed between Tonali and Spurs.

Spurs are said to have indicated a willingness to meet Newcastle's valuation, said to be closer to £100m courtesy of what Manchester City are paying for Elliot Anderson.

If a proposal worth a fee close to that value can be formally agreed and Tonali passes a subsequent medical, the Italy international should become a Spurs player.

© Iconsport / PA Images

Why does Tonali want to move to Spurs?

While the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United have previously been linked with a move for Tonali, it is seemingly Spurs who will win the race.

Tonali is reportedly eager to play under De Zerbi. Both are former players of Brescia, albeit not at the same time.

Meanwhile, the 26-year-old is said to want to live in London, giving Spurs the edge over Man United.

Although Newcastle do not want to sell Tonali, he has just two years left on his contract and has no intention of penning a renewal.

A total of 10 goals and 10 assists have come from 110 appearances during his time in the North-East.

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly made a bold decision on highly-rated midfielder Archie Gray as Roberto De Zerbi looks to oversee a major squad overhaul this summer.

Gray joined Spurs from Leeds United in the summer of 2024 for a fee believed to be around £40m and has made just over 80 appearances for the club.

The 20-year-old is a versatile midfielder who has featured in multiple positions under different Tottenham managers, including at centre-back.

Tottenham make Archie Gray transfer decision

© Imago / Sportimage

According to a report from TeamTalk, Tottenham are not considering selling Gray, with his future simply not up for discussion.

Gray is viewed as an integral part of De Zerbi's long-term plans, and the former Brighton & Hove Albion boss has personally made it clear how highly he rates the 20-year-old.

The report adds that the former Leeds academy graduate has been reassured of his importance to the club and remains fully committed to his future in North London.

De Zerbi is reportedly impressed by Gray's versatility and believes the youngster can become one of the most influential players in his squad over the coming years.

Newcastle United, Everton and Nottingham Forest have all been credited with an interest in Gray in recent months, but Tottenham's stance remains unequivocal.

Tottenham transfer plans: Spurs want new midfielders

© Imago

Spurs are looking to revamp their midfield under De Zerbi and could yet bring in as many as three new midfielders before the transfer window closes.

The North London club are reportedly working on a deal for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, who is also said to be keen on the move.

The Magpies have reportedly rejected two offers for the Italy international and are unwilling to consider a sale unless they receive around £100m.

Liverpool have reportedly joined Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign FC Koln attacker Said El Mala this summer.

The Reds continue to be heavily linked with RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, who is currently representing Ivory Coast at the 2026 World Cup.

Liverpool are reportedly willing to pay around £86m for the exciting attacker, but the Bundesliga club could demand closer to £112m before considering a sale.

Diomande himself has distanced himself from transfer speculations on his future, insisting that his full focus remains on the World Cup.

Liverpool transfer plans: Said El Mala emerges as Diomande alternative?

© Iconsport / PictureAlliance

Earlier this month, reports emerged that Liverpool retain a strong interest in El Mala and have kept the highly-rated forward firmly on their shortlist.

The 19-year-old enjoyed an outstanding 2025-26 campaign, scoring 13 goals and providing four assists in 34 appearances, attracting interest from several clubs.

According to German outlet FussballDaten, the Reds have registered a strong interest in signing El Mala, who is valued at €50m (£43m).

Liverpool have already secured the signing of Victor Munoz, but Andoni Iraola is keen to add further attacking reinforcements, and El Mala could emerge as a serious alternative should a move for Diomande fail to materialise.

The German attacker is capable of playing on either wing or as an attacking midfielder, and his technical quality and explosive pace could make him an excellent fit for the Premier League.

Liverpool face competition from Tottenham Hotspur for Said El Mala

© Imago / Noah Wedel

The Reds are not alone in the race, with reports claiming that Tottenham and Newcastle United are also interested in the Germany youth international.

Spurs are reportedly leading the chase, but Liverpool could hold an advantage by offering Champions League football.

The Merseyside club have also been linked with Paris Saint-Germain attacker Bradley Barcola, but the recurring links with El Mala suggest their interest in the youngster is genuine.

Mateus Fernandes would be more suited to Manchester United than Tottenham Hotspur, and the Red Devils should not lose sight of the midfielder, a former West Ham United man has exclusively told Sports Mole.

Following the Irons' relegation from the top flight, Fernandes is expected to make a high-profile move away from the London Stadium, and Man United were formerly seen as the leading contenders for an £80m deal.

However, Tottenham have moved ahead of Man United in recent days and apparently have an 'extraordinary' plan to beat Michael Carrick's side to the signing of the Portugal international.

Fernandes is reportedly open to joining both Spurs and Man United, though, and neither club has agreed a fee with West Ham yet, meaning that the battle is very much on.

Now, former West Ham attacker Robert Snodgrass has had his say, telling Sports Mole that Fernandes would be an invaluable addition to the Red Devils' ranks ahead of Casemiro's official departure.

Mateus Fernandes "most suited" to Man United, not Tottenham

© Imago / Craig Mercer

"I believe Man Utd would be the club he is most suited too," Snodgrass said. "With Casemiro leaving, he is a direct replacement there where he can look to fit in to that position. Whether he is first choice or not, he can be a good player for Man Utd to have with so many games to play.

"The fee would need to be right from West Ham’s perspective, but with Premier League football on the table, the player would most likely want to continue to play in the Premier League."

Man United confirmed earlier this year that Casemiro would be leaving as a free agent in June following the expiry of his contract, and the Brazilian is expected to sign for Lionel Messi's Inter Miami.

The Red Devils are already on the verge of signing Atalanta BC lynchpin Ederson, but another big-money midfielder is expected to arrive, especially in the wake of Manuel Ugarte's serious injury.

The Uruguay international was stretchered off in Friday's 1-0 World Cup defeat to Spain, and there are fears that his problem could scupper his chances of an exit from Old Trafford this summer.

How does Mateus Fernandes compare to Casemiro?

© Imago / Sportimage

Formerly a divisive figure among Man United fans, Casemiro is leaving on a high following a stellar 2025-26 season, in which he played a key role in the Red Devils' return to the Champions League.

The Brazilian played two fewer games and 436 fewer minutes than Fernandes in the Premier League last season, but he managed nine goals compared to the Portuguese's three, boasting a conversion rate of 17.3% to Fernandes's 10.7%.

However, Fernandes claimed four assists to Casemiro's two and registered a superior pass accuracy of 87.4% to the South American's 81.3%, although the latter did attempt more forward passes and Fernandes more backwards passes.

The West Ham man's duelling statistics standout, though, as he completed 59.2% of his take-ons compared to just 37.5% for Casemiro, while winning 56.3% of his ground duels to Casemiro's 53.5%.

The latter was stronger in the air, winning 50.9% of his aerial battles to Fernandes's 48.7%, but the Portuguese would evidently bring a different skillset to Old Trafford.

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has reportedly emerged as a target for Tottenham Hotspur, although the England international has different plans for his future.

The 28-year-old is currently representing England at the 2026 World Cup, and his future at Old Trafford is expected to be resolved after the tournament.

Rashford spent last season on loan at Barcelona, scoring 14 goals and providing 14 assists in 49 appearances to help the Catalan giants win the La Liga title.

Despite his impressive performances, Barcelona opted against activating their £26m option to sign him permanently, resulting in his return to his parent club.

The Blaugrana instead spent £69m to sign Rashford's England teammate Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United, and are now only interested in another loan move.

Marcus Rashford preference amid Tottenham transfer link

© Iconsport / PA Images

Rashford has a contract at Old Trafford until 2028 and a £40m release clause that applies to every club except Manchester City and Liverpool.

Tottenham have reportedly expressed an interest in signing the England forward, but are unwilling to trigger his release clause.

According to the i paper, Rashford has no desire to join another Premier League club, a stance that will come as a blow to the North London side.

Marcus Rashford future: What happens next?

© Imago

With no club currently willing to meet Rashford's valuation, the Red Devils could lower their asking price to around £25m, which may represent the best fee they can realistically expect.

Barcelona are continuing to monitor Rashford's situation and could return with another loan proposal if no club manages to agree a permanent deal.

Man Utd have no intention of sanctioning another temporary departure, preferring instead to sell the 28-year-old outright to generate funds for new signings.

Manchester United have reportedly stepped up their interest in signing West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes this summer.

The 21-year-old joined the Hammers from Southampton last summer, but he could be on the move again following the club's relegation to the Championship.

Fernandes impressed during the 2025-26 campaign, registering three goals and four assists in the Premier League, and both Man Utd and Tottenham Hotspur are keen to sign him.

Man Utd make concrete approach to sign Mateus Fernandes

© Iconsport / PA Images

It was reported earlier this month that Fernandes has opened the door to moves to both Manchester United and Tottenham, leaving it up to the two clubs to strike a deal with West Ham.

The Hammers have placed an £80m valuation on the midfielder, but Spurs have reportedly devised an extraordinary plan by offering around £75m while significantly increasing the player's wages to tempt him to North London.

According to journalist Matteo Moretto, the Red Devils are back in the race for the former Southampton midfielder and have now made direct contact with West Ham.

On top of that, the Red Devils have approached the player's camp in the "last few hours" and are prepared to improve their contractual offer in an attempt to win the race for his signature.

Tottenham have been pushing hard to sign the Portugal international, and it remains to be seen whether the two Premier League clubs will become embroiled in a transfer tug of war.

Man Utd and Tottenham: Other midfield targets

© Imago / Pressinphoto

Man Utd are keen to strengthen their midfield and have already secured an agreement for Atalanta BC midfielder Ederson.

Michael Carrick is still looking to add one more midfielder, with Manchester United recently linked with a move for Real Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni.

Spurs, meanwhile, are reportedly keen to sign Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United alongside Fernandes, with Roberto De Zerbi said to want both players.

West Ham are open to selling Fernandes this summer, but only if an interested club meets their asking price.