Sports Mole

Amid suggestions that Arsenal are keen on Tottenham Hotspur's Cristian Romero, Sports Mole's Site Coordinator Ben Knapton argues against a move to the Gunners for the Argentina international.

Ben Knapton, Site Coordinator: "I would not take Cristian Romero at Arsenal"

No, not a chance. Being straight up, I would not take Cristian Romero at Arsenal. It harks back to the Sol Campbell days, but Sol Campbell became an invincible and an absolute legend. Romero is now in the prime of his career.

On his day he can be a very good defender. When he gets it right he can be a great, aggressive, no-nonsense, all-action defender. We have seen him score and assist plenty of times as well.

But there are so many more red flags than green flags with this one. Tottenham fans will tell us better than anyone just how overly aggressive and rash he can be. He had two red cards in the Premier League last season and 11 yellow cards.

That was the joint most red cards, level with Wesley Fofana of Chelsea. So there are so many more cons than pros to this signing. Arsenal do need some defensive cover, but that cover should never be Cristian Romero.

I'd be very surprised if Romero plays another game for Tottenham. He is due back quite soon from the World Cup.

Towards the end of last season, and even during the season when he was getting those red cards and yellow cards and proving to be a liability, so many more Spurs fans were turning on him.

Then, against Everton, he flew home to Argentina before the final day of the season, before the game Spurs needed to at least get a point from to stay up.

He did come back for that one, so he was watching on from the sidelines, but the damage had already been done, and it has been exacerbated since.

Quite firm reports say that Romero would be open to joining Arsenal. It seems like he has really burnt a lot of bridges with Tottenham fans, and even if he does stay, which I don't expect to happen, those bridges will not be rebuilt.

Tottenham would entertain a sale, but certainly not to Arsenal. They are doing their absolute utmost not to sell to Arsenal in any circumstances.

I don't think they will have to, because Arsenal are just one of four interested clubs. Atletico Madrid have been the front runners, but there has been no major breakthrough yet.

Inter Milan's name was mentioned quite prominently a month or two ago. Reports initially said they had given themselves a 10-day deadline. Those 10 days have now passed, and there has been no breakthrough there either.

Another report yesterday in Spain said Romero was waiting for Barcelona to make their move. Araujo is going to Liverpool, and that should be confirmed pretty soon.

Deco, the sports director of Barcelona, does like Romero. But Barcelona don't see the need, and the expectation is that Cubarsi and Martin will be the starting central pairing under Hansi Flick next season.

They have also got Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia and Kounde, who can play center-back even though it is not their natural position.

There is also a La Masia prospect, Alvaro Cortes, who would take on that role if Araujo is replaced. Tottenham will entertain bids of maybe between £35 and £40m, but they would avoid selling to Arsenal at any cost.

Hello and welcome to Sports Mole's live Tottenham Hotspur transfer news blog on Monday, August 10!

Roberto De Zerbi's men returned to Hotspur Way over the weekend and drew 1-1 with Getafe in a behind-closed-doors friendly, while the men upstairs continued to work around the clock on incomings and outgoings.

Stay entirely up to date with the latest Tottenham done deals and rumours with our social-led live blog below!

Today's Tottenham transfer headlines

Cristian Romero 'waiting' for one club to make move

Tottenham handed boost in pursuit of ex-Arsenal striker

Tottenham transfer news today: What's happening on August 10?

Tottenham are believed to have received a boost in their pursuit of USA striker Folarin Balogun, who is reportedly open to leaving Monaco after an impressive World Cup.

Balogun's representatives are understood to have approached Spurs through intermediaries, though there is no suggestion a deal for the former Arsenal youngster is close.

De Zerbi is said to be weighing up Balogun alongside other attacking options, with Dominic Solanke and Richarlison both linked with possible exits that could free up space.

Spurs have also reportedly been given Liverpool's asking price for Cody Gakpo, understood to be in the region of £70m.

Liverpool are said to have little intention of selling the Dutchman, leaving Balogun as the more attainable alternative if De Zerbi wants fresh firepower.

Captain Cristian Romero's Tottenham future, meanwhile, continues to hang in the balance, with the defender apparently still waiting to see whether Barcelona will make a concrete approach.

Blaugrana sporting director Deco is believed to be an admirer of Romero, though talks are understood to have stalled while the Catalan club prioritise a move for Manchester City's Rodri.

Atletico Madrid remain the reported frontrunners for Romero - valued at £34m - with Inter Milan also credited with interest, while a shock switch to Arsenal is said to have been effectively ruled out by Spurs.

In more negative news, Paris Saint-Germain starlet Ibrahim Mbaye is reportedly leaning toward a move to Liverpool ahead of Arsenal and Spurs, although the Lilywhites have Savinho higher up their shopping list anyway.

Liverpool and Cody Gakpo have reached the point where a natural parting of the ways is best for both parties, a Reds Champions League winner has exclusively told Sports Mole.

The Netherlands international was frequently criticised by Liverpool fans last season for perpetual inconsistency in attack, having only managed an indifferent nine goals and six assists in 52 games in all tournaments.

Gakpo is now facing added competition for starts on the left from new signing Victor Munoz, while Liverpool are also still pushing to bring Bradley Barcola to the club from Paris Saint-Germain.

As a result, Gakpo's long-term future is the subject of increasing uncertainty, and both Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United have been credited with a serious interest in the 27-year-old.

Liverpool have reportedly set Gakpo's asking price at £70m given that he has three years left on his contract, and Dietmar Hamann feels that the Dutchman's time at Anfield has now run its course.

Liverpool Champions League winner makes Cody Gakpo transfer prediction

© Iconsport / Daniel Derajinski/Icon Sport, Azzuu

"He's been there a long time now, and I think that over the years he's been a very good player for Liverpool," Hamann told Sports Mole on behalf of MrQ, one of the UK's top casino sites.

"But sometimes you just get a feeling it comes to a halt, it comes to an end, and I think with him you get the feeling that maybe he needs a fresh challenge.

"Maybe if they part ways, it's best for both parties. And if there was a taker, and I'm sure there's a lot of interest in him, then it might be best because sometimes when you've been successful at a club and won trophies, sometimes it's best for both parties to part ways when the time is right. And I think with Gakpo, I get that feeling.

"Spurs bought an awful lot of players recently, but they have always bought players who, in the past, couldn't really fulfil the expectations placed on them at the start of the season.

"The same goes for Newcastle. They're pretty high up in the wage bill, but they very badly underperformed last season, so they need players. I think they are two fantastic clubs who could potentially look at Gakpo and will want to go well for the next season.

"And you've seen with Luis Diaz what sometimes a change of scenery can do for you. He's been a brilliant player for Bayern Munich last season. So, yes, Gakpo to Spurs or Newcastle, I can see that happening."

Tottenham or Newcastle: Which club needs Cody Gakpo more?

© Imago

Tottenham have been credited with a more serious interest in Gakpo, a consequence of losing both Xavi Simons and Wilson Odobert to severe knee injuries while Manor Solomon and Mikey Moore prepare to join West Ham United and Koln respectively.

However, Mathys Tel has looked dangerous on the left-hand side in pre-season, while Richarlison could also be deployed on the same flank if Dominic Solanke starts down the middle.

Meanwhile, Newcastle have only replaced Anthony Gordon with a 20-year-old Bazoumana Toure, although Anthony Elanga at least avoided a serious injury after being stretchered off in Saturday's friendly against Valencia.

Therefore, the Magpies have a more pressing need to sign an experienced, ready-made winger, one who has come up with 32 goals and 18 assists during his Premier League career.

Tottenham Hotspur may have received a significant boost in their pursuit of USA striker Folarin Balogun during the summer transfer window.

It has already been a hugely ambitious window for Spurs, who have spent around £240m on new arrivals, but Roberto De Zerbi remains keen to add further firepower before the new Premier League campaign gets underway.

The Tottenham boss is searching for another striker and has reportedly been offered the opportunity to sign Balogun, who enhanced his reputation with three goals in four appearances for the United States at the 2026 World Cup.

Balogun came through the youth ranks at Arsenal but struggled to establish himself in the senior side, scoring just two goals in 10 appearances.

The USA international subsequently joined Monaco in the summer of 2023 and has since found the net 31 times in 91 appearances for the French club.

Tottenham receive boost in Folarin Balogun chase

© Imago / IMAGO / Belga

According to Football Insider, Balogun is open to leaving Monaco this summer following his impressive World Cup campaign, a development that could encourage Tottenham to explore a potential deal.

Spurs could soon require additional firepower if either Dominic Solanke or Richarlison departs, with both forwards having been linked with moves away from North London.

Balogun's representatives have reportedly approached Tottenham through intermediaries to explore the possibility of bringing the 25-year-old back to the Premier League.

However, there is no suggestion that a transfer is imminent, with Balogun understood to be just one of several attacking options currently being considered by De Zerbi.

Folarin Balogun or Cody Gakpo: Who should Tottenham sign?

© Imago

Spurs have also been heavily linked with Liverpool attacker Cody Gakpo, and the Netherlands international would undoubtedly bring another dimension to De Zerbi's frontline.

Gakpo offers the kind of versatility managers crave, capable of operating as a centre-forward or drifting in from the left, giving Spurs another tactical weapon as they attempt to build a more potent attack.

However, Liverpool have little appetite for losing one of their key attackers, particularly with the Reds already short of options in the final third.

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly been informed how much they would need to pay to prise Cody Gakpo away from Liverpool this summer.

Spurs have been heavily linked with a move for the Netherlands international, who represented his country at the 2026 World Cup.

Gakpo joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023 and has since made 180 appearances for the Reds, scoring 50 goals across all competitions.

Although the 27-year-old endured a below-par 2025-26 campaign by his standards, managing just nine goals, Liverpool have no intention of selling him as Andoni Iraola looks to preserve the attacking strength at his disposal.

Cody Gakpo: Liverpool set asking price

© Imago

According to Football Insider, Tottenham have been informed that an offer in the region of £70m could be enough to convince Liverpool to part ways with Gakpo.

The Dutchman has emerged as one of Roberto De Zerbi's leading targets during the closing stages of the transfer window, although Spurs will have to do considerably more than simply meet a valuation if they are to prise him away from Anfield.

Iraola views Gakpo as an important component of his plans for the season ahead, and Liverpool would reportedly want to sign another winger before even contemplating his departure.

Tottenham have been among the biggest spenders in Europe this summer, having splashed close to £240m on new recruits, but whether they are prepared to test Liverpool's resolve with a sizeable offer remains to be seen.

Liverpool should keep Cody Gakpo

© Imago

Liverpool have already added Victor Munoz from Osasuna, but Iraola has made it abundantly clear that further attacking reinforcements are required before the window closes.

The Reds remain desperate to sign Bradley Barcola, although their pursuit has become more complicated with Arsenal reportedly entering the race for the Paris Saint-Germain winger.

Against that backdrop, selling Gakpo would make little sense.

The Netherlands international has already proved himself a reliable source of goals for Liverpool, and sanctioning his departure without first securing a suitable replacement would leave Iraola with an avoidable hole in his frontline.

Gakpo's versatility only strengthens the argument for keeping him, as although he prefers operating from the left flank, he is also capable of leading the line when required.

With Hugo Ekitike set to miss the start of the new campaign, having another forward capable of filling that role could prove invaluable, making Gakpo far more than just another winger in Iraola's squad.

Paris Saint-Germain starlet Ibrahim Mbaye would reportedly prefer to sign for Liverpool this summer.

Despite the 18-year-old having made a strong impression for Senegal at the recent World Cup, his future at PSG is unclear.

With Bradley Barcola being linked with a move to the Premier League, Luis Enrique is looking for Ajax's Mika Godts to follow Monaco's Maghnes Akliouche in moving to Parc des Princes.

As a result, that would leave Mbaye struggling to earn regular game time for the two-time Champions League winners.

According to Football Insider, that has led to the teenager identifying his ideal next club.

© Imago / David Rawcliffe, Propaganda Photo

Liverpool handed Mbaye boost

The report alleges that Mbaye has 'had his head turned' by the possibility of making the switch to Anfield.

Liverpool are now said to be preparing an official approach for the prospect, who has already racked up 42 outings for PSG.

Mbaye has been playing a full part in PSG's pre-season, featuring for 90 minutes in the recent 1-1 draw with Manchester United.

He provided an assist in that fixture to follow his 60-minute outing versus Mallorca in the previous game.

Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are among the other clubs who allegedly hold an interest in adding Mbaye to their respective squads.

Previous reports have indicated that PSG will demand at least £42m for the playmaker.

© Iconsport / Powerpics/Alamy

Would Mbaye become first choice at Liverpool?

Andoni Iraola's current wide options are Florian Wirtz, Cody Gakpo, Victor Munoz, Rio Ngumoha and Federico Chiesa.

When Wirtz could play centrally, Chiesa may leave and Gakpo is being linked with a move elsewhere, Iraola could soon find himself short in that department.

Liverpool chiefs will feel that they have two of the most exciting young wingers in world football if Mbaye joins Ngumoha on Merseyside.

Nevertheless, Mbaye would be viewed as a rotational option in 2026-27 should he move to England.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero is allegedly waiting on Barcelona to make their move as speculation surrounding his next transfer grows.

The Argentina international would ordinarily be due to return from his World Cup holiday this week, but it would be a surprise to see him pull on the Tottenham shirt again.

Romero is heavily expected to head for the Tottenham exit door before the transfer window slams shut, and a shock move to North London rivals Arsenal was previously mooted.

The 28-year-old would apparently be open to doing a Sol Campbell and joining the Gunners, but Tottenham will flat-out refuse to negotiate with their bitter adversaries over a deal for their captain.

However, neither Atletico Madrid nor Inter Milan have reached a critical breakthrough in their efforts to sign Romero, although Diego Simeone's side are still considered the frontrunners.

Cristian Romero 'waiting' for Barcelona to make transfer move

© Iconsport / SUSA

Nevertheless, Mundo Deportivo reports that Romero is 'still waiting' to see whether Barcelona will make a late play for his services as they prepare to bid farewell to Ronald Araujo.

Liverpool have agreed to sign Araujo on loan for the 2026-27 season, and the Reds will also have the option to sign the Uruguay international on a permanent basis for approximately £47m at the end of the campaign.

Sporting director Deco is said to be a fan of Romero's qualities and versatility - believing that he could operate effectively on either side of the backline - and the former Portugal international has been holding talks with the Tottenham defender's agent Ciro Palermo.

Progress has been held up due to Barcelona's other transfer priorities, though, as Barcelona have just submitted a second bid for Rodri and are also targeting a centre-forward to replace Robert Lewandowski.

However, Tottenham would entertain offers of around €40m (£34.3m) for Romero, while Atletico are yet to surpass the €30m (£25.7m) mark.

Why Cristian Romero may not secure dream Barcelona transfer

© Imago / PHOTOxPHOTO

Even though Deco has an admiration for the Argentine and believes that he would adapt seamlessly to life at Camp Nou, Barcelona are well-stocked in defence.

Araujo's departure will not have a major impact on Hansi Flick's starting team, given that the Uruguayan only made the first XI on 11 occasions in the 2025-26 La Liga season, and just four times in the Champions League.

Instead, Pau Cubarsi and Gerard Martin are expected to form Flick's first-choice pairing in 2026-27, while Andreas Christensen and academy graduate Alvaro Cortes are also waiting in reserve.

Furthermore, Eric Garcia and Jules Kounde could fill in centrally if required, and Barcelona have also not ruled out using Rodri as an emergency centre-back next season.

Therefore, depending on how much money Barcelona spend reinforcing their midfield and attack, Romero's Camp Nou dream may not become a reality.

Aston Villa sporting director Damian Vidagany has confirmed that talks have been held over the potential signing of Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha.

Unai Emery is in the market for at least one more central midfielder after a serious knee injury sustained by Amadou Onana and the departure of Youri Tielemans to Manchester United.

Although there was talk of Villa chasing Palhinha earlier in the transfer window, speculation has quietened down in recent weeks.

However, the two teams squared off in a friendly on Friday, with Bayern Munich running out 2-1 victors in a game which saw Palhinha introduced as a substitute.

In an interview with BILD, Vidagany has provided an update over whether Villa are close to finalising a deal.

© Imago / STEINSIEK.CH

Aston Villa chief speaks on Palhinha interest

While Vidagany wanted to withhold many details of the discussions, he conceded that Villa were pushing hard to sign the former Tottenham Hotspur star.

He said: "We need a midfielder because Amadou Onana is out for the entire season – and João Palhinha is a very good player who would fit our plans.

"We are in talks, but there is currently no agreement. If something were to happen, it would always be based on the great respect we have for Bayern.

"We are friendly clubs, and our relationship with Max Eberl, Christoph Freund, and all the other officials is excellent. Therefore, I cannot and do not wish to comment on any further details."

Vidagany is of the opinion that Villa are the ideal club for Palhinha to continue his career, adding: "I believe Aston Villa would be a great club for the player. In the league, six or seven clubs have a bigger budget than us.

"Nevertheless, we’ve qualified for international competitions every year for the past four years.

"That’s down to our project, our work as a team, and the tactical influence of Unai Emery, who in my eyes is one of the best coaches in the world."

© Imago

What next for Palhinha?

A Bayern Munich official recently acknowledged that Palhinha is not part of the plans of Vincent Kompany.

Therefore, providing that Villa can agree terms with their Bayern counterparts, the expectation is that a deal will go through before the start of the new Premier League campaign.

However, negotiations may not conclude prior to Villa facing Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup final on Wednesday.

The transfer window is gathering momentum, with Premier League clubs stepping up their recruitment drives and working frantically behind the scenes to get their squads ready for the new 2026-27 season.

With deals beginning to take shape and plenty of big-name moves still in the pipeline, Sports Mole rounds up the latest transfer stories, rumours and developments doing the rounds this morning.

Newcastle United eye move for ex-Spurs midfielder?

Newcastle United are reportedly exploring a move for Marseille midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg this summer.

The Magpies have already lost Sandro Tonali to Tottenham Hotspur and are now preparing for life without captain Bruno Guimaraes, who is closing in on a move to Arsenal.

With two influential midfielders heading for the exit door, Newcastle are looking to replenish their options in the engine room and according to Sky Sports News, have identified Hojbjerg as a potential solution.

The 31-year-old brings a wealth of Premier League experience, having previously represented Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur, and has plenty of football left in him to offer at the highest level.

Hojbjerg initially joined Marseille on loan before making his move to the French club permanent last summer, and he has since made 75 appearances across all competitions.

The Denmark international remains under contract with Marseille until 2028, but Newcastle could reportedly secure his services for a fee in the region of £15m.

Leeds United goalkeeper to leave Elland Road?

© Imago / IMAGO / Pro Sports Images

From Tyneside, we head to Yorkshire, where Leeds United have recently confirmed the signing of James Trafford.

The 23-year-old has completed his move in a deal worth up to £45m, just 12 months after joining Manchester City from Burnley for £27m.

Trafford is now the most expensive British goalkeeper in history, eclipsing the previous benchmark of £30m which Everton paid Sunderland for Jordan Pickford in 2017.

His arrival could now pave the way for Lucas Perri to join Torino on an initial loan deal containing an option to buy.

According to Sky Sports News, the Whites are willing to sanction Perri's departure as they currently have sufficient options between the posts.

Crystal Palace agree deal for winger

It has been a slow-burn transfer window for Crystal Palace, but the Eagles now appear ready to accelerate their recruitment drive as the new 2026-27 Premier League campaign draws close.

According to Sky Sports News, Palace have agreed a £10m deal to sign Real Salt Lake winger Zavier Gozo.

The Eagles believe they have struck an excellent deal for one of the most exciting young talents to emerge from MLS, with the 19-year-old now granted permission to undergo his medical.

Palace are also looking to reinforce their defence and are reportedly keeping tabs on Nice defender Antoine Mendy.

The 22-year-old offers valuable versatility, capable of operating at centre-back or right-back, and could be available for a fee in the region of £15m, a figure that would comfortably fit within Palace's budget.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly close to finalising Manor Solomon's transfer to West Ham United.

After an unprecedented spending spree during the early phase of the summer window, Roberto De Zerbi and the club's board naturally want to facilitate some outgoings.

Ashley Phillips's pending move to Middlesbrough is expected to take Spurs' income through sales to the £80m mark, with many add-ons to follow in the future.

However, there is still a desire to cash in on players such as Solomon who have no future at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Israel star will soon become a West Ham player.

© Iconsport / PA Images

West Ham closing on Solomon transfer

The report claims that West Ham have progressed to the final stages of negotiations with their Spurs counterparts.

Championship title favourites West Ham are said to be confident that a deal will soon be completed.

Although a transfer fee is not mentioned by Romano, Israel National News claims that it will be just under £10m.

With Solomon having moved to Spurs on a free transfer in 2023, it will represent a huge profit for Spurs.

Injuries and loan spells elsewhere have meant that he has only made six appearances for the club.

During 2025-26, Solomon made 11 appearances for Villarreal and 19 outings for Fiorentina.

© Imago / IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire

Solomon deal major coup for West Ham

At a time when they are preparing to face Portsmouth in the EFL Cup first round on Saturday, West Ham supporters will argue that their transfer business has been slow.

Nevertheless, adding Solomon to the squad should be viewed as a major coup, the player having previous contributed 10 goals from 39 games during Leeds United's 2024-25 Championship title-winning campaign.

Providing that he stays fit, the 27-year-old has the potential to be a regular starter under Nuno Espirito Santo.