The 2024/25 Premier League season begins in under two weeks, in what is a stark reminder for clubs at both ends of the table to kick into gear in the transfer window. Negotiations will need to be accelerated if teams are hoping to have their new signings integrated into their squads ahead of the opening weekend of the campaign.
Manchester United and Chelsea have both been busy already this summer, though their respective pre-season defeats this weekend have highlighted why their work is far from complete.
The Red Devils were beaten 3-0 by Liverpool in a crushing defeat on Saturday night, with goals from Fabio Carvalho, Curtis Jones and Kostantinos Tsimikas. Chelsea were equally poor against Manchester City, losing 4-2 in a loss which highlighted the gulf in quality between the two clubs.
The performances may be enough to push both sides into considering more signings than previously anticipated. Express Sport provides LIVE transfer updates and gossip below...
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Liverpool reject £15m offer for fringe star
Liverpool have reportedly rejected an offer for £15million from Southampton for Fabio Carvalho.
The Athletic report that the Reds are not keen to loan the Portuguese playmaker out this summer, though permanent offers will need to be markedly higher than Southampton’s opening offer.
Carvalho is keen to be a regular started next season, may that be at Anfield or elsewhere.
Man Utd book second medical for next week
Noussair Mazraoui is not the only star who is reportedly set to undergo his medical at Manchester United in the coming days.
According to Sky Sports, Chido Obi Martin is set to complete a switch to the Red Devils, with his medical pencilled in at Carrington.
The 16-year-old striker - who left Arsenal earlier this summer - could be one of two new arrivals next week.
The Gunners were keen to retain the services of the teenager but he has opted to join the Red Devils instead following extensive talks with several key figures at Old Trafford.
Man Utd book Mazraoui's medical
Manchester United are closing in on Noussair Mazraoui with the player’s medical in England reportedly now booked.
United have been locked in talks with Bayern for over a week, and they now appear to be closing in on the Morocco international.
According to Foot Mercato, the Bundesliga outfit have now ‘authorised’ that Mazraoui can join Erik ten Hag’s side soon.
A deal is described as ‘almost done’ and Mazraoui will now fly to England in the next few days to put pen to paper at the Theatre of Dreams. United have booked the ex-Ajax star’s medical for Tuesday, with personal terms already agreed.
Arsenal plot move for Man City's wantaway star
Arsenal are reportedly monitoring the situation of Manchester City star Julian Alvarez.
The forward has been heavily linked with a move away from the Etihad Stadium this summer after it emerged that he had doubts about his future at the Etihad Stadium, with Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain among his suitors.
According to The Mirror, Arsenal are willing to push for Alvarez if he becomes available this summer as well.
The Gunners are prepared to table a ‘significant bid’ if it becomes clear that Alvarez will be sold by City. Pep Guardiola has reiterated previously that his side will not retain the services of unhappy players, though it remains to be seen whether the Argentine is willing to change his stance on an exit upon his return for pre-season.
