A 15-year-old academy sensation has been selected for Manchester United's pre-season friendly against Rosenborg in Norway, as Chelsea’s £117m capture of Morgan Rogers dominates a frenzied day of transfer activity.
JJ Gabriel, the teenage prodigy, was named in Michael Carrick’s squad for the trip to Trondheim, where the Red Devils continue their preparations for the new Premier League campaign. His inclusion came as United also explored midfield reinforcements, with the club considering moves for Manu Kone and Carlos Baleba, while making an enquiry for Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni.
“Man Utd field 15-year-old JJ Gabriel in pre-season as Chelsea seal £117m Rogers deal and Arsenal face Guimaraes rebuff.”
But the biggest splash in the market belonged to Chelsea, who completed the summer’s most expensive deal by triggering Morgan Rogers’ release clause from Aston Villa for a staggering £117m. The England star's arrival under new manager Xabi Alonso signals the Blues’ intent to overhaul their wide options.
Arsenal, meanwhile, saw their ambitious pursuit of Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes hit a wall. The Gunners are understood to be preparing a £70m offer for the Brazilian, but sources on Tyneside insist that is a “non-starter”. Guimaraes’ agent, Alexis Malavolta, fuelled speculation with a cryptic social media post as Arsenal intensify their chase.
Liverpool are also active under new head coach Andoni Iraola. The Reds have made an approach for Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche and are leading the race for PSG target Bradley Barcola — a move that would be another blow for Arsenal, who also hold an interest. Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes has agreed to extend his stay at Old Trafford, putting an end to exit rumours.
Newcastle themselves are closing on their fourth summer signing, with Monaco’s 20-year-old Aladji Bamba flying to the North East to complete his move. And Chelsea are not done yet: they have booked a medical for Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix in a £52m deal, following the Rogers blockbuster.
With a month to go until the Premier League returns, the scramble for talent shows no sign of slowing.