Arsenal are making a deal for Julian Alvarez their top priority, with the Atletico Madrid striker having made clear his desire to leave. The 26-year-old Argentina international said last month: "I spoke with people at the club, with those I had to speak with and the best thing for everyone is a transfer and I want to fulfil my dream." The Gunners are pushing for a quick deal before pre-season begins, though they are reluctant to exceed £90m while Atletico hold out for more than £100m. Barcelona had tabled a proposal involving Ferran Torres plus cash, but Atletico turned it down and, according to Spanish radio station COPE, are now working with Arsenal on a deal. Meanwhile, Arsenal's alternative target Bradley Barcola is not available; Paris Saint-Germain, the European champions, wish to retain the winger.
Aston Villa are finalising a move for Freiburg and Switzerland midfielder Johan Manzambi, who was on course to join Newcastle United. The 20-year-old was one of the breakout stars of the World Cup, scoring a double off the bench against Bosnia and Herzegovina, then a goal and an assist on his full debut versus Canada, and setting up the opener in the round of 32 win over Algeria. A knee injury kept him out of the last 16 victory over Colombia, but his five goal involvements are the most by a player his age at a single World Cup since records began in 1966. Manzambi's former Freiburg II manager Benedetto Muzzicato said: "He wants to improve every single day. If anything, you have to slow him down rather than motivate him." The midfielder was named the Europa League's young player of the season after helping Freiburg reach the final.
“Arsenal make Julian Alvarez their top priority as Aston Villa surpass Newcastle for World Cup star Johan Manzambi.”
Manchester City's former boss Pep Guardiola is on the shortlist to become the new Italy manager after Paulo Maldini was appointed as the country's technical head. Bayern Munich remain confident of tying England striker Harry Kane down to a new long-term contract despite interest from Real Madrid. Chelsea are looking at a move for Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton after Liverpool and Manchester United cooled their interest. Sunderland aim to make Roma winger Matias Soule their first summer signing for around £30m, while Newcastle have held talks over Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki. Roma want Chelsea's Alejandro Garnacho and Strasbourg's Diego Moreira, and Manchester United goalkeeper Radek Vitek is wanted by Celtic. Atalanta have held discussions with Ederson after a move to Manchester United broke down, with Newcastle still interested.