Arsenal are targeting a deal for Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres, while Manchester United have shortlisted three potential left-back signings. In addition, Chelsea have made an offer for Villarreal goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen, and Crystal Palace are moving closer to an agreement for Marseille forward Ismaila Sarr.
Arsenal Pursue Viktor Gyokeres
Arsenal are preparing to sign Sporting Lisbon’s striker Viktor Gyokeres, following progress in their negotiations for Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori. The London club hopes to secure Gyokeres, but they must meet Sporting’s £85 million demand. According to The Sun, Calafiori has committed to Arsenal after reaching an agreement with Bologna. However, the transfer has been delayed by a dispute between the Serie A club and his former team, Basel, over a sell-on clause. Gyokeres, a long-term target for Arsenal, scored 43 goals for Sporting Lisbon last season after joining from Coventry. The Swedish striker’s release clause of £85 million is non-negotiable, making him a pricey acquisition.
United’s Left-Back Search
Manchester United are urgently seeking a solution for their left-back position amid an injury crisis. Luke Shaw struggled with fitness for Euro 2024, and Tyrell Malacia remains uncertain for the upcoming season. The Mirror reports that United are intensifying their search for a left-back, with Tyrell Malacia no closer to returning to action. Malacia, sidelined for 14 months due to knee surgeries, has not been included in the squad for the club’s US tour. With Luke Shaw on an extended break after Euro 2024, United lacks a senior left-back for their three-game tour in the States. Potential left-back targets include Feyenoord’s David Hancko, former Chelsea star Marcos Alonso, and Crystal Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell, who may be available at a reduced price due to his contract expiring next year.
Chelsea’s Jorgensen Bid
The Daily Mail reveals that Chelsea has offered £17 million for Villarreal goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen. The Danish under-21 international is valued at £21 million, so Chelsea needs to increase their offer. The report states: “Chelsea have proposed £17 million plus add-ons for Villarreal goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen to boost their goalkeeping options. The 22-year-old is interested in joining the west London club to compete with current No 1 Robert Sanchez, amidst interest from Saudi side Al-Ittihad. Jorgensen, Villarreal’s first-choice keeper last season, made 37 appearances across all competitions. The 22-year-old regularly plays for Denmark’s Under-21 team and previously represented Sweden at various youth levels. Chelsea is also offering £1.7 million (€2 million) in add-ons. Mail Sport understands Villarreal are holding out for £21 million.”
Palace Near Sarr Signing
Crystal Palace aims to acquire Marseille winger Ismaila Sarr during the summer transfer window. The Premier League team previously targeted Sarr when he was at Rennes, before his move to Watford. The Evening Standard reports: “Crystal Palace is pursuing Marseille winger Ismaila Sarr. The Eagles have monitored Sarr for years and missed out on him in 2019 when he joined Watford from Rennes. Palace needs a wide player after selling Michael Olise to Bayern Munich for around £50 million. Sarr is a key target for sporting director Dougie Freedman, and it’s hoped Marseille could be persuaded to sell as they revamp their squad under new boss Roberto De Zerbi. Marseille’s interest in Eddie Nketiah could facilitate the sale of Sarr to fund their move for the Arsenal striker.”
