[ Removed by reddit in response to a copyright notice. ]

• Rivaldo: "Honestly, I neither understand nor agree with Braithwaite's signing, because this signing was made outside the window and, in addition, because Barcelona could have chosen a kid from La Masia instead of making this transfer"

 

• Bechler: "According to SER, since 2017 Barcelona is paying a company to create profiles (Up to 65k followers big) & spread positive messages about the club on social media. These profiles also attack names like Messi, Pique, Guardiola & opponents, although the club denies ordering those attacks."

 

• Carles Perez: "I don't know what happened. They didn’t give me good explanations, and said 10 days before market closed that i was leaving. Barca no longer have patience with youth. It hurts. My dream was to play, and it was taken away quickly. They talk a lot about La Masia but do the opposite."

 

• Barcelona [1]-0 Eibar - Messi 14'
  
• Barcelona [3]-0 Eibar - Messi 40' (Hattrick)
  
• Barcelona [2]-0 Eibar - Messi 37'
  
• Barcelona [4]-0 Eibar - Messi 87'
  
• Barcelona [5]-0 Eibar - Arthur 89'
  

 

• The Spanish Federation has denied Leganés's request to sign a replacement for Braithwaite should he join Barcelona

 

• Leganés director Martín Ortega: "Barça has benefited from an unfair rule with the Braithwaite signing."

 

• [Alfredo Martínez] OFFICIAL: La Liga has authorized Barcelona to make an emergency signing to replace Dembele

 

• FC Barcelona to trigger €20m release clause of Leganes striker Martin Braithwaite as emergency February signing, but relegation battlers Leganes will not be able to sign a replacement.

 

• Napoli Curva B to miss Barcelona: "The working-class sector is the only place left in a football only for rich people, where everyone can be together regardless of their income. We proved many times to be the 12th man of the team and get rewarded with €70 ticket. So we reward you with our absence".

 

• Pep Guardiola harshly criticizes FC Barcelona: “If they’re happy about our [Man City’s] suspension, I’ll remind them that they appealed the same punishment. My advice to them is to not speak too loud. Everyone’s involved in these situations.”

 

• FC Barcelona have signed Martin Braithwaite from Leganes.

 

• [Achraf Ben Ayad] "Some of the players at Barcelona want clarification from Bartomeu and the club regarding the recent news of paid attacks on specific players of the team. The club is currently studying how to respond and soon Bartomeu will explain everything to the media."

 

• Barca's president Bartomeu: "I would like to thank UEFA regarding FFP, they've been doing fantastic work in the last couple of years."

 

• Tadic: "I wasn't surprised Barcelona wanted me, because I believe in myself and I had an excellent season. But I've already said a hundred times that Ajax is my club. There was no reason to leave, because I've got everything I want here."

 

• Martín Ortega (Leganés Director): "The conduct of F.C. Barcelona has been correct. They informed us of their intention on Monday and the only way out was to pay the clause. We should not hold any grudge against them because they have made use of a possibility according to the current regulations".

 

• Piqué calls a Mundo Deportivo journalist who tweets a defense of the Barca Board and insinuates a conspiracy a "puppet".

 

• Barcelona president Bartomeu admits: "We have paid the clause following the regulations, but they should be revised because it is not fair that Leganes cannot now sign anyone"

 

• Santos demands €4.5M to Barça for breach of contract. As part of the Neymar signing Barcelona agreed to play two friendlies against Santos, one in Brazil and one in Spain valued at €4.5M each, but only the one in Spain was played

 

• Barça finance director resigns amidst scandal

 

• Allegri on Juve "Champions League curse": There’s no such thing as a curse. Reaching the Final is already a great event. It’s like going to the Superbowl, then you can either win or lose but you are facing the best. We lost to Real and Barcelona who at that time were the strongest teams in the world

 

• Pep: “All the clubs have to know that when Real Madrid or Barca knock on the door the other clubs must tremble, they will be a little bit in trouble. Barcelona and Real Madrid are maybe the strongest and most powerful teams in terms of history and how good they are.”

 

• 696 goals. 306 assists. Lionel Messi is the first player to ever achieve over 1,000 total goal contributions.

 

• Messi: "I couldn’t let the sporting director attack me in that way. I don’t know what went through his head. He was attacking the players. Too many things are already said about the dressing room, like we control everything, that we choose the players and the coaches; and about me especially."

 

• Bartomeu was not able to convince the four captains: Messi, Busquets, Piqué and Sergi Roberto. [cat radio]

 

• Puyol: "Messi is 32 and a player who takes care of himself like Leo does can play until he's 38..."

 

• [Transfermarkt] Robert Lewandowski has scored 38 goals in 32 games this season and is 3rd player ever to achieve this number before the end of February. Only Lionel Messi in his two legendary seasons and Luis Suarez in 15/16 have achieved that number. Cristiano best result was 37 in 14/15.

 

• De Jong: "The match between Getafe and Ajax was painful. For me it was especially frustrating. Getafe doesn't play to entertain the public. I find it annoying to watch their games. Ajax can come back, but it's difficult."

 

• [OFFICIAL] Sergio Ramos, Andres Iniesta, Gerard Pique and David Silva on pre-list of players that could represent La Roja in Summer Olympics 2020 in Tokyo. They can become first players to ever win all of World Cup, Olympics and EURO.

 

• Lionel Messi: "I feel very good, better than in previous years. Not scoring goals? Not so many right now but on a physical level I feel very good. Playing until I'm 40? We'll see, we'll see..."

 

• Suarez has missed 30% of La Liga matches and remains the 3rd highest goalscorer and 2nd best assister in the league

 

Alright you lot, it's been a while. How've you been?
Yes, I'm back again with a footballing history lesson none of you really asked for. I've split this one into two parts, I would say it's so we can have an in-depth discussion but it's mainly because I'm lazy. Hey, at least I'm honest.
I've done some similar posts to this one before, and the lovely people at 8by8 Magazine asked me to write them with a little more substance. You can see my past articles here:
PFA Young Player of the Season 1990-2000: Where are they now?
PFA Young Player of the Season 2000-2010: Where are they now?
Premier League Manager of the Season: Where are they now?
2003
RAFAEL VAN DER VAART
Club (at time of winning): Ajax
Position: Midfielder
Age: 20 then, 32 now
The winner of the inaugural Golden Boy award was a young Dutch boy from Heemskerk. At the time of winning he’d already been playing regular football for Ajax for three years, making his debut at just 17. Van der Vaart left Ajax in 2005 after a series of incidents that also sparked the sale of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, internet darling and absolute bellend, from Ajax after rumors that Zlatan had intentionally injured Van der Vaart during a Holland v Sweden game. The two were supposedly vying for the striker position at the time. Van der Vaart moved from Ajax to Hamburger SV and then on to Real Madrid for £10 million in 2008.
Van der Vaart’s time at Real Madrid started well with him being nominated for the Ballon d’Or in October 2008, but the next few years were not as kind seeing him reduced to a sub for much of his career, leading him to look elsewhere. So entered Henry James Redknapp into Van der Vaart’s life. In what was actually a fantastic piece of wheeling and dealing that would make Del Boy shed a tear, Redknapp managed to snag Van der Vaart for a mear £8 million after an £18 million deal to Bayern Munich had fallen through. He even got the Premier League to allow Spurs to conduct business after the transfer window had officially closed, presumably on the grounds that it was a top, top piece of business. In his debut season Van der Vaart was both Spurs top scorer and provided the most assists.
Van der Vaart currently plays for Real Betis, with injuries having plagued the later half of his career.

• 505 career appearances, 169 goals (0.32 goals per game)
  
• 198 Hamburger SV appearances, 66 goals
  
• 109 Netherlands caps, 25 goals
  
• Career silverware: 2 Eredivisie titles, 1 KNVB Cup, 1 Johan Cruijff-schaal, 2 Intertoto Cups, 1 Supercopa de Espana, 2010 World Cup Runner-up.
  

2004
WAYNE ROONEY
Club (at time of winning): Everton
Position: Striker
Age: 19 then, 29 now
Since the last time I wrote one of these, quite a lot’s happened for Wayne. It would be easy to poke fun at him getting knocked out by Phil Bardsley in his own home, but it happened and really the knowledge alone is enough for me. No the real story is that Rooney is now England’s all-time goalscorer. What makes it more magical is that he did it the right way. You can imagine it now: It’s Liverpool 1992, a young Rooney sits with his family, huddled for warmth around a burning Ford Escort someone at the pub “found”. Wayne looks up from the rat he’d been gnawing on and says “Mam, I’m gonna be England’s top scorer me. And I’m gonna do it by scoring dodgy pennas against San Marino and Switzerland”. Brings a tear to the eye.
Joking aside, the wake of Charlton’s record being broken sparked a desperate attempt by pundits to convince themselves that Rooney was in fact deserving of the record and that no-one had ever spoken ill of him. But the flurry of opinion pieces just served to highlight how sad it is that the media have made Rooney the scapegoat for so many of England’s failings over the years. Yes, he hasn’t lit up a major tournament since he was a teenager, but is it really his fault England have been so poor on the world stage? Should it really be expected that he has to be the one to get England over the line? Or should the blame be more on the FA for only producing one truly world class player in his generation and then pinning all their hopes on him?

• 565 career appearances, 252 goals (0.45 goals per game)
  
• 488 Manchester United appearances, 235 goals
  
• 107 England caps, 50 goals
  
• Career silverware: 5 Premier League titles, 2 League Cups, 3 Community Shields, 1 Champions League and 1 Club World Cup.
  

2005
LIONEL MESSI
Club (at time of winning): Barcelona
Position: Forward
Age: 18 then, 28 now
I was torn how to approach this little bio of Messi. What can I say? You all know who he is and what he’s about (if you don’t, he’s the third most famous Lionel in the world, behind Richie and Blair). I could talk about how he might worry about how aging will affect his game but unlike other players his age he shows no signs of slowing down. I could spend the whole bio just poking fun at him, but in reality that’s kind of impossible because at the end of the day he’s Lionel Messi. He’s dodged more in tax than I can ever hope to earn, he’s short but annoyingly that just makes him better at football and worse of all he seems like a nice bloke. At least most of the great footballers have the decency to be a bit of a knob to balance it out (Maradona, Pele, looking at you lads).
Undeniably the most deserving winner of the award and a footballer we are all lucky to be witnessing in his prime, Messi will undoubtedly become the impossible standard of all future Golden Boy winners. Perhaps even the anomaly that was too good at football - how many players will be built up to be “the next Messi” only to have expectation and inevitable disappointment tarnish their careers? How many already have been?

• 525 career appearances, 429 goals all for Barcelona (0.82 goals per game)
  
• 105 Argentina caps, 49 goals
  
• Career silverware: 7 La Liga titles, 3 Copa del Rey, 6 Supercopa de Espana, 4 Champions Leagues, 3 UEFA Super Cup, 2 Club World Cup, 2008 Olympic Gold Medal, 2014 World Cup Runner-up, 2 Copa America Runner up.
  

2006
CESC FABREGAS
Club (at time of winning): Arsenal
Position: Midfielder
Age: 19 then, 28 now
It’s funny how quickly things change in football. This time last season Fabregas was lighting up the Premier League, his partnership with Costa the personification of Mourinho’s smug ability to seemingly always have one over on Wenger. Fabregas was hailed as one of the signings of the summer, his return to the Premier League in blue a masterstroke from Chelsea and a foolish missed opportunity from Arsenal. But time and football are cruel mistresses and both have taken issue with Cesc. While time is doing her best to turn Fabregas, Costa and Mou into a trio of greasy kebab shop owners, football seems to have forgotten about the three of them altogether. Chelsea currently lie 15th in the table with 8 points from 7 games and Fabregas seems to have lost his magic touch that defined the first half of every season he’s played. Although a more impressive individual display against Newcastle does suggest the skill that earned him this award may still be around it remains to be seen if the malaise that seems to have infected the Chelsea squad is temporary or indicative of a permanent shift in an aging Fabregas’ career.

• 509 career appearances, 105 goals (0.21 goals per game)
  
• 303 appearances for Arsenal, 57 goals.
  
• 98 Spain caps, 14 goals.
  
• 3 Catalonia caps, 0 goals.
  
• Career silverware w/ Arsenal: 1 FA Cup, 1 Community Shield.
  
• Career silverware w/ Barcelona: 1 La Liga title, 1 Copa del Rey, 2 Supercopa de Espanas, 1 Super Cup, 1 Club World Cup.
  
• Career silverware w/ Chelsea: 1 Premier League title, 1 League Cup.
  

•  Also World Cup 2010 Winner, Euro 2008, 2012 Winner 

2007
SERGIO AGUERO
Club (at time of winning): Atletico Madrid
Position: Striker
Age: 19 then, 27 now
Like a lot of young and talented Argentinians Sergio Aguero, along with the likes of Lionel Messi and Carlos Tevez, was lined up to be the “New Maradona”. This would later establish what was undoubtedly the world’s worst father-in-law/son-in-law dynamic after Aguero married Maradona’s youngest daughter in 2009. I’m not saying that’s what caused Aguero to file for divorce in 2013, but can you imagine having to suffer through having Diego Maradona as your father-in-law? I bet he has a scrapbook full of articles about how you’re not as good as him.
Like so many strikers before him Aguero gained a reputation for himself in Europe at Atletico Madrid before making a big money move to the Premier League - joining Manchester City in 2011 for £35 million. In his debut year in the Premier League he quickly established himself as one of the league’s showpiece players, City’s talisman forward and a key part of Sky Sports Premier League advertising. His last minute strike against QPR has become one of the defining moments of the modern Premier League era, which due a planning masterstroke on my part I got to experience through live text updates sat outside a broken toilet on an overcrowded train from Middlesbrough to Sheffield. I’ve heard it was quite a special moment.
What is strange about Aguero is that unlike most other stikers there’s just something inherently likable about him. Even Manchester United fans don’t hate him really. I mean the nickname “Kun” on his shirt is the nickname his grandparents gave him as a kid and he even has a tattoo of it in Elvish on his arm. Come on now, how can you hate a bloke who loves his Nan that much?

• 463 career appearances, 231 goals (0.50 goals per game)
  
• 234 Atletico Madrid appearances, 101 goals
  
• 68 Argentina caps, 32 goals
  
• Career silverware: 1 Europa League, 1 Intertoto Cup, 1 UEFA Super Cup, 2 Premier League titles, 1 League Cup, 1 Community Shield, 1 2008 Olympic Gold Medal, 2014 World Cup Runner-up, 1 Copa America Runner-up.
  

2008
ANDERSON
Club (at time of winning): Manchester United
Position: Midfielder
Age: 20 then, 27 now
So I’m not really sure what happened this year. Maybe the pre-vote party got a bit heavy, maybe the England representative took the other lads out for a Nando’s, things got extra cheeky and they agreed to vote for Anderson “for the bants”. Whatever the events that led to him winning the award it seems Anderson is the only player on the list whose career didn’t quite pan out as planned. Or that’s what you’d think. Believe it or not in terms of silverware, Anderson is the second most successful Golden Boy winner of all time. Just take a moment to think about that.
In a way I’m being hard on Anderson, when he won the award in 2008 he was one of the hottest and most exciting prospects in world football and was rightfully recognised for that. Anderson was fantastic for Brazil U17s; picking up the Golden Ball at the 2005 World Championship and this exceptional form is probably what helped him secure a £20 million move to Manchester United in 2007. Yet somewhere along the way something went wrong. Brought in as replacement for Keane and Scholes, during his time at United Anderson struggled to keep a grip of both the central midfield spot and his waistline. Injury and off the field insubordination left Anderson in the footballing wilderness, with United eventually washing their hands of him, taking a loss as Anderson left for Inter Internacional on a free transfer in January 2015. Sadly there doesn’t seem to be a second coming on the cards for Anderson, on his Internacional debut he missed a penalty and was substituted after only 36 minutes into his second game, uninjured but still requiring an oxygen mask.

• 261 career appearances, 21 goals (0.08 goals per game)
  
• 181 Manchester United appearances, 9 goals
  
• 8 Brazil caps, 0 goals.
  
• Career silverware: 4 Premier League titles, 2 League Cups, 2 Community Shields, 1 Champions League, 1 Club World Cup, 2 Primeira Liga titles, 1 Taca de Portugal, 1 Supertaca Candido de Oliveira, 1 Campeonato Gaucho, 1 Campeonato Brasileiro Serie B title, 1 2008 Olympics Bronze Medal, 1 Copa America.
  

Looking at the way that the season has gone alongside the last couple of years I believe that it would be pretty extraordinary if Arsene Wenger stays Arsenal manager at the start of the 2017/18 season. Whether the board decides enough is enough, which is unlikely, or Arsene decides that he can no longer move the club forward there will have to be a new manager in place. I am going to look at some potential candidates for the job, their suitability for the role, some pros and cons and how they would fit in at the club.
Personally I have always been a big advocate of Wenger and I hope that he will have some capacity at the club in the future but at this stage I think we have hit a wall and he is arguably the main reason for this. I have huge respect for what he did for us after our move to the Emirates and has done a better job than most fans and media give him credit for. Having said this, he has had the chance with our current squad to challenge for the league in the past two seasons and has failed to do so.
Massimo Allegri, Juventus (2/1 SkyBet)
The main candidate for the next Arsenal manager has been Allegri. The current Juventus manager, he has guided them to the 2 previous Serie A titles alongside a Champions League final in 2015 where they lost to Enrique’s Barcelona. He also won the league in 2011 with AC Milan and is moving towards his fourth title at the end of this season.
A tactically versatile manager not afraid to play 3 or 4 at the back he has been able to transform Juventus into a possession based football team. Looking to play out of the back and press when they haven’t got the ball he has made Juventus into one of the most feared teams in Europe getting the best out of world class players such as Leonardo Bonucci, Gonzalo Higuain, Paulo Dybala and Paul Pogba before his move to Manchester United. He has also been able to attract some large names to the club such as Higuain and the highly rated Miralem Pjanic from rivals Roma and may be able to do the same at Arsenal.
If he were to come to Arsenal he would help to carry on Wenger’s legacy of possession based football whilst bringing in a winning mentality which is arguably lacking from our current setup. A calm persona in the dressing room it wouldn’t be a huge shift and could be a smooth transition if he were to come to London. Not a huge advocate of youth but in a league where players play late into their 30’s this may change if he came to the Emirates. He may however be able to get the best out of ageing players such as Cech, Koscielny, Santi and Mertesacker
The main argument against Allegri is that he has been able to lead a dominant Juventus team (following on from Conte’s successes) to titles in a league where competition is no longer at its strongest. With the competitiveness of the Premier League would he be able to take Arsenal to the next level and that is the big question.
Ronald Koeman, Everton (10/1 SkyBet)
A natural successor to Wenger would be Dutch legend Ronald Koeman. Currently managing Everton, he has been able to turn their poor start around and they are now pushing towards the European spots. He joined them in the Summer after a successful spell in Southampton where he lead them to their highest points total in the Premier League era.
A manager who likes to play fast attacking football he is a manager who would suit the style of Arsenal nicely using formations of 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3 which are used commonly at the club. He likes to have his fullbacks bomb forward which would be perfect for Bellerin and Nacho, although I would like to see a replacement in the summer at LB. A manager who likes youth, with players such as Romelu Lukaku and Ross Barkley striding towards their potential as well as introducing players such as Lookman and Tom Davies to the first team squad. Having said this, he is a manager who has struggled defensively and that is not going to help address one of the main problems with Arsenal on the pitch.
Another calm persona, he has been able to get the best out of his players especially when at Southampton where he lost many key players such as Adam Lallana, Luke Shaw and Morgan Schneiderlin who he has just signed for Everton. He is also tactically adept and not afraid to try something different in big games as shown against Chelsea, although it didn’t work out for him.
He may be able to attract names such as Lukaku to the club and Arsenal seems like a logical step for him in his managerial career. However, you can clearly see that he is angling for his move to Barcelona and a couple of seasons at Arsenal would probably be it for the Dutchman. If we are looking for a long-term replacement then Koeman is unlikely to be that man but in the short-term (which is likely to be a period of transition) he may be the perfect man for the job.
Thomas Tuchel, Borussia Dortmund (12/1 SkyBet)
Current Borussia Dortmund manager Thomas Tuchel is version 2.0 of Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. It is easy to draw comparisons of the two with their high pressing, swashbuckling style and it would be interesting to see how Tuchel would manage at a club like Arsenal. Although struggling this season, he was able to push a far superior Bayern close in his first season.
A manager who looks to youth for the answer, with prospects such as Julian Weigl and Ousmane Dembele getting large amounts of minutes at the German giants and he could be the man to get the best out of some of Arsenal’s best youth products. Another manager that likes the 4-2-3-1 he would bring something similar to Liverpool and something different to the current set-up. Again, like Koeman he is unlikely to stop the goals being scored against but will make Arsenal a very exciting team to watch.
His main problem however is consistency. After last season’s strong showing Dortmund are currently 13 points adrift of Bayern, but we all know how strong the Bavarian’s are so it is not necessarily unsurprising. They are however, below this seasons surprise package Red Bull Leipzig and only 3 points ahead of 5th placed Hertha. In the last month they smashed Bayer Leverkusen 6-2 and lost to bottom placed Darmstadt 2-1. It really would be like watching Liverpool after all and I don’t know how much our fanbase could take of that. With a large project going on and Tuchel the glue that holds it all together I believe that this would be a long-shot in all honesty.
Eddie Howe, Bournemouth (14/1 SkyBet)
A young English manager, with a real folklore story and his team currently solidifying their place in the Premier League it is understandable why the media and many fans are jumping on the Eddie Howe hype train. He is currently making history with ‘plucky little Bournemouth’ and has done a fine job to get them where they are currently.
A very tactically versatile manager, who is arguably the most natural successor to Wenger in terms of playstyle and youth development, it would be interesting to see how Eddie Howe makes the step up to a large club like the Arsenal. As seen in our two games this season Bournemouth haven’t been afraid of the bigger clubs and have given us a scare at both the Emirates and that night on the South Coast. He likes to play a 4-3-3 and a counter attacking game to get the best out of players such as Joshua King and the always injured Callum Wilson, who use their pace to terrorise defences and get in behind. He has been able to develop youth prospects and get the best out of players who could be seen out of their depth such as Charlie Daniels and Simon Francis who came through the leagues with him.
He has been able to get Jack Wilshere fit this season and is getting him back to the form which we have craved for over the last couple of years. If he were to come to the Emirates it would be likely that Jack would be a huge adversary to him and we could see the best of others such as Oxlade-Chamberlain and Ramsey under his watch.
The most glaring problem for Howe is that Arsenal could be a bridge too far for him at this stage. Would he be able to manage the egos of some of Arsenal’s stars? I don’t think so. A couple more seasons at Bournemouth to make them a solid Premier League team or a move to Everton or Southampton would be logical at this stage of his career although it would be great to see him at the Emirates in a number of years.
Diego Simeone, Atletico Madrid (14/1 SkyBet)
My personal choice for the role would be Argentine Simeone. He has done the unthinkable with Atletico leading them to the La Liga title in 2014, their first in nearly 20 years in an era when Barcelona and Real Madrid are so dominant. Couple this alongside Champions League finals in 2014 and 2016 it shows that Simeone’s Atletico are something special and a leading light amongst Europe’s top teams.
A lively personality on the touchline and fiery personality in the dressing room he would be something completely different to Wenger, but may be what we need at this stage. He likes to play a 4-4-2 and as we have seen in the Champions League loves to play with 2 banks of 4 and hit teams on the counter. He likes players with a team ethic in mind and likes the dirty, defensive side of the game. Having said this, he is able to get the best out of flair players such as Arda Turan, Yannick Carrasco and of course Antoine Griezmann. A team for the big occasion we could see Arsenal become a European force under his watch. It would be like going back to the era of George Graham and the defensive solidity that he bought to the club.
Despite the obvious successes, there would likely have to be a major overhaul to fit his style. Luxury players such as Mesut Ozil and Theo Walcott may not succeed in the system but players such as Alexis (if he stays), Coquelin and Ramsey (not what anyone wanted to hear) may be the perfect fit with the workrate they provide. He could also bring Griezmann with him to the Emirates. Both say that they are huge admirers of each other and I for one would drool of the prospect of the Frenchman at the Emirates.
A big problem however, is that Atletico are moving into a new 70,000 seater stadium from next season and Simeone would like to move the club into it. Also with such a large personality and playstyle change this would need to take time and the success is unlikely to come straight away with the current players at the club.
Arsene Wenger, Arsenal (2/1 SkyBet)
Arsene to remain is a definite possibility. With the board seemingly unwilling to do anything to touch Arsene it is all in his hands. As mentioned, I believe that change is needed and you can clearly see that the fanbase is divided at this point. It is almost at breaking point and something needs to happen. We don’t seem to be moving forward at this point and with Wenger in charge we may be going the opposite direction. With Alexis heading out the door and potentially others to follow it is a difficult place to be at this stage as a fan.
On the flip side, I would like to see Arsene given the chance to compete with the money that he has helped to generate through the Emirates. With the stadium debt paid off we are now able to compete with the two Manchester clubs and Chelsea financially but its whether we can compete with them on the pitch and that is where I feel we have a hit a wall. We should be able to compete with them and with the squad as strong as it has been in years why shouldn’t we be. We should’ve have won the league last year and at the very least competing this year. Unfortunately with Wenger at the helm I can’t see us doing this in the next couple of seasons and if he signs a new contract I think things may turn ugly at the Emirates.
As many others have mentioned it is not solely Arsene’s fault and there needs to be an overhaul at board level but at this stage that looks incredibly unlikely. Unless we slide hugely down the table then there is likely to be no questions asked and that’s not what this club is about. Accountability needs to be given to them and I would rather see Kroenke and Gazidis go before Wenger does.
Other Candidates
Leonardo Jardim, Monaco (18/1 SkyBet)
High flying Monaco are reaping the rewards from Portuguese manager Jardim. An attacking side with youth throughout the side, Jardim could be a good fit at the club. He helped mastermind their victory against us a couple of years ago, and has been able to get the best out of Radamel Falcao and many youth prospects this season. With the links of Arsene and Monaco the rumours will always be there and this could happen.
Luis Enrique, Barcelona (14/1 SkyBet)
We all know what Enrique’s Barcelona has done over the last couple of seasons and in the last week. With the Spaniard leaving at the end of the season it could be an obvious selection but says that he would like a break and I believe that he will stay true to his word on this.
Patrick Vieira, New York City FC (16/1 SkyBet)
This ship sailed a number of years ago. I believe he will go back to Man City once they have done with Pep.
Dennis Bergkamp, Ajax (25/1 SkyBet)
Would love to see this in the future but at this stage and with the task in hand this will be a monumental step up from assistant at Ajax. Don’t ruin your reputation Dennis.
This is my first really long post, so please let me know how I did :) Edit - Formatting

First en foremost let me say that I am in love with the game of football. I could say addict, but when you’re addicted it might be bad for you on the long run.
I play football myself and the videogames, I watch it approximately 5/6/7 days a week, I know about all the transfers, facts and actualities and it ruins or makes my weekend when my hometown club wins.
It is safe to safe that Football Manager for me is probably the best game there is in the football departement. I used to like FIFA though, but that game is just utterly broken, and money greedy.
So as every year I bought the new FM (FM18), as I have been doing for the last 5/6 years or so. I really love the in-game depth, the start from scratch setup, regen scouting, transfer period and succes story creation with lower league teams. You name it.
In real life, without being cocky, I think I might be above average with my knowledge on football tactics, importance of certain aspects and stuff. In FM I always have an idea on how to play, looking at the strength of my team and building a solid tactic with a strong defense to begin with.
This year is basically the same old story, I started with my hometown club (Ajax) and won the league 5 times in 6 seasons, reached the final of the Europa league and got knocked out in the semi-final of the Champions League. All because there is, in my opinion, just something missing. This something is always missing when the game is getting a bit harder.
Currently I’m in my second save with Blackburn Rovers, a team that I think should come back in the PL some day. And therefore this is my first goal in FM. I won the Sky Bet League 1 and finished mid-table in the Championship in my second year. My third year is about to end the same, by the looks of it.
This is what my problem is, again: I’m losing due to conceding sloppy, extremely annoying goals whilst the opponent has 2 shots on goal and I have 8/9. My strikers miss open goal chances. I never score any set piece situation and I always concede them. My squad isn’t listening to my instructions; work ball into box for example, they just shoot whenever they feel like it.
This is just a small summary of the problem. My point is: I love this game, but I hate that for some reason I looks like I suck at it. Sometimes I win randomly 5 times in a row, followed by consecutively losing 6 times.
I have been reading guides, manuals and watching youtube stories, helps, tips and tricks for ages now. But it doesn’t really improve.
Sometimes I wish somebody would just show me how he, or she, plays half a season.
Well, as a conclusion of the literary piece, which could be even longer, I’m not expecting any of you telling me the magic solution. But any tips, tricks or just plain essentials that I have been missing are very welcome!
Maybe I’ll post an update if I magically have found the solution!

Auto-Refreshing Transfer News Thread from Sky Sports
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22:00

THAT'S ALL FOLKS!

That's all we have time for today, many thanks for joining us. We'll be back here from 7am tomorrow with the latest done deals, news and rumours.
See you then!
21:58

WATCH: TRANSFER CENTRE

Get the latest transfer updates from Sky Sports News.
21:53

LERMA HANDS IN REQUEST

Sky sources understand Jefferson Lerma has handed in a transfer request at Levante after a significant bid from Bournemouth was rejected.
Sources close to the deal tell us the player is disappointed he is being denied the opportunity to fulfil his ambition of playing in the Premier League
21:35

'TRANSFER RUMOURS NOT NICE'

Ajax midfielder Frankie De Jong is getting tired of being linked to Barcelona, and says he does not find the rumours "nice" anymore.
“I’m an Ajax player so I can’t say too much about it at the moment,” De Jong told Voetbal International. “Of course there is interest, everyone knows that, but I am an Ajax player, as I say.
“In the beginning the transfer rumours are nice, but gradually I think I don’t need this anymore, they can write what they want. That’s not me and it’s not that I think ‘ah, that’s nice’.”
21:14

NZONZI TO BARCA?

Arsenal transfer target Steven Nzonzi is reportedly attracting interest from Barcelona, according to Mundo Deportivo.
The Gunners have reportedly been put off his £35m valuation and Barca see Nzonzi as a more viable option than Paris Saint-Germain’s Adrien Rabiot.
20:44

NO WIN FOR RICHARLISON

Everton have lost 3-0 to Blackburn in their pre-season friendly, with new signing Richarlison getting minutes under his belt but no goals yet.
https://twitter.com/Everton/status/1022581029603827721
20:22

NEW DEAL FOR NAVAS?

Real Madrid are planning to offer Keylor Navas a new contract, reports La Nacion.
Navas, who has been Madrid’s first-choice goalkeeper in each of the past three seasons, could drop down the goalkeeping pecking order at the Bernabeu this term if the European champions bring in Thibaut Courtois from Chelsea.
However, it appears as though Madrid are still keen for the Costa Rica international to continue at the club, with La Nacion reporting that they are set to present him with a two-year contract renewal offer which would tie him to the La Liga giants until 2022.
20:06

MALCOM PRESENTED BY BARCA

New Barcelona signing Malcom has been presented by the club, with the player saying: "I am really happy to be here, it's a dream, playing at Barça is a great challenge and I hope to make the fans happy."
https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1022571318464667655
19:51

RICHARLISON ON FOR DEBUT

Richarlison is on for his Everton debut in their pre-season friendly with Blackburn. They currently trail Rovers 2-0.
https://twitter.com/Everton/status/1022569789720551427
19:40

RUSNAK TO REAL SALT LAKE

Sky Sports News understands former Manchester City midfielder Albert Rusnak will snub a number of offers to return to European football, and instead sign an improved contract to stay in the MLS with Real Salt Lake.
Rusnak hinted last month that he was expecting to leave America in this window, with Sparta Prague among the clubs interested in him, but it now looks like he will be staying put, with Salt Lake offering him a new deal until 2021.
19:26

PALMER TO JOIN ROVERS

Chelsea’s young midfielder Kasey Palmer is joining Blackburn Rovers on a short-term loan deal until Christmas, Sky Sports News has learned.
The deal won’t be completed until after the weekend. Palmer spent the second half of last season on loan at Derby County, and earlier this month it looked like he was bound for Pride Park again to join up with Chelsea legend Frank Lampard.
But the 21-year-old will instead head to the North West for four months, once the paperwork is completed on Monday.
19:14

LOVELL PLEASED WITH SIGNINGS

Gillingham are holding a Q&A; evening, and manager Steve Lovell has been chatting about transfer activity.
https://twitter.com/TheGillsFC/status/1022551331867971584
https://twitter.com/TheGillsFC/status/1022551628866613249
https://twitter.com/TheGillsFC/status/1022552136171892738
19:00

'BONUCCI WANTS JUVE RETURN'

AC Milan defender Leonardo Bonucci wants to return to former club Juventus this summer, says Milan's new sporting director Leonardo.
He explained: "I've met with a range of clubs, including Juventus. The desire (to talk to Juve) came from him, so if the conditions are right, we'll try to make it happen."
18:46

'RAMSEY WILL STAY'

Unai Emery believes Aaron Ramsey is going to stay at Arsenal despite speculation surrounding his future.
"Football changes every day. It's not easy. For that, I am thinking the match today first, then training tomorrow, then the match Saturday, with an important player here," the manager said.
"Aaron is an important player for us, and the contract is one thing for the club and the player. For me, I want him to stay with us, to work with us, to give the team the big performance.
"I think he is going to stay here with us."
18:30

ROANLDO'S FIRST GAME CONFIRMED

Cristiano Ronaldo will start his Serie A career with Juventus at Chievo.
The Portugal forward became Juve's club record signing last month when he joined from Real Madrid for £99.2m.
And Thursday's announcement of the opening round of Italian top flight fixtures sees him head to the Stadio Bentegodi for the champions' first match of the 2018/19 campaign, on the weekend of August 18-19.
18:16

ENQUIRIES FOR TRIO

Cardiff City have received enquiries for Lee Tomlin, Anthony Pilkington and Omar Bogle, but Neil Warnock has revealed the players may not leave until the last day of the window.
"We've had one or two enquiries, that will all come up I would imagine and liven up in the next three weeks," he told Wales Online.
"Especially when I announce my squad on the 9th (of August), the Football League have got another two or three weeks so I think a lot of them will be waiting until deadline as always."
17:59

RICHARLISON ON BENCH

Everton are playing in a pre-season friendly at Blackburn tonight, and new signing Richarlison is among the substitutes.
17:46

RABIOT GOING NOWHERE

PSG are unwilling to sell Adrien Rabiot this summer, reports L’Equipe.
Rabiot, who is attracting interest from Barcelona and Juventus, is out of contract next year and PSG want to hand him a new deal. Even though he is inside the final 12 months of his deal, PSG are not contemplating cashing in on him this year.
17:32

VALVERDE HAS NEXT TARGET

Ernesto Valverde has identified Dani Parejo as his next target, according to Sport.
The Valencia playmaker has been linked with a move to Barcelona before, but now the Catalans' interest in the 29-year-old is coming to a head.
17:16

FRED IN THE USA

New Manchester United signing Fred has joined up with his team-mates for their pre-season tour of the USA.
https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1022522747317043200
17:03

REINE-ADELAIDE JOINS ANGERS

Jeff Reine-Adelaide has joined Ligue 1 side Angers from Arsenal in a permanent deal, following a loan spell with the club earlier this year. The 20-year-old signed for the Gunners in July 2015 from Ligue 2 side Racing Club Lens. He made eight first team appearances over three seasons.
17:01

ANOTHER CHELTENHAM SIGNING

https://twitter.com/CTFCofficial/status/1022511680260071424
16:47

WATCH: TRANSFER CENTRE LATEST

Get the latest from the Sky Sports News Transfer Centre.
16:37

SELS MAKES MOVE

Goalkeeper Matz Sels has completed a permanent move to French side Strasbourg from Newcastle.
The 26-year-old joins the Ligue 1 outfit for an undisclosed fee after a two-year spell at St. James’ Park.
https://twitter.com/NUFC/status/1022519589241069576
16:25

GUTHRIE JOINS STEVENAGE

Kurtis Guthrie has signed for Stevenage, subject to EFL registration.
The striker was signed by Colchester from Forest Green Rovers in July 2016 and scored 13 goals across 49 appearances for the U’s.
15:50

LEEDS TARGET BAMFORD

Leeds are interested in Middlesbrough striker Patrick Bamford, according to the Yorkshire Evening Post.
New manager Marco Bielsa wants a striker for his squad, and Leeds have also been linked to Derby forward Matej Vydra.
15:35

CHESTER TO STAY AT VILLA

Captain James Chester is ready to snub Stoke and hand Aston Villa a further boost by staying at the club.
The defender is keen to help Villa return to the Premier League, Press Association Sport understands.
Stoke have made an offer, reportedly worth up to £10m, for the Wales international but he would prefer to remain at Villa Park.
15:21

EVERTON JOIN GONALONS RACE

Everton have reportedly joined the race for Roma midfielder Maxime Gonalons, according to the Liverpool Echo.
Crystal Palace are also said to be tracking the Frenchman.
15:06

MUTO DEAL IN PRINCIPLE

Mainz 05 Sporting Director Rouven Schroder has confirmed they’ve agreed a deal in principle to sell striker Yoshinori Muto to Newcastle.
The German club have said the transfer has been agreed subject to a few formalities and the player gaining a work permit. Muto is on his way to Tyneside from Tokyo.
It’s our understanding the fee is £9.5m.
14:51

PJANIC ON THE MOVE?

Juventus will sell Man City transfer target Miralem Pjanic this summer, but only if they receive the same amount they paid to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid, according to Calciomercato.
The Bianconeri view the Bosnian as good as Ronaldo and want at least £89m for him.
14:31

MADDOX JOINS CHELTENHAM

https://twitter.com/CTFCofficial/status/1022489137172152320
14:26

BARCA EYE MIGNLOET

Barcelona are interested in out-of-favour Liverpool 'keeper Simon Mignolet, according to Marca.
The arrival of Alisson at Anfield has pushed Mignolet further down the pecking order, and Barca want a potential replacement for Jasper Cillessen.
14:11

CAVANI NEW REAL TARGET

Edinson Cavani is Real Madrid's new number one target after Chelsea demanded the Spanish giants pay £178m for Eden Hazard, according to AS.
Robert Lewandowski is also no longer a serious target for Real.
13:53

AFTERNOON HEADLINES

For those of you just joining us - firstly where have you been? - but here is a quick roundup of where we stand with some of the day's main transfer stories...
13:35

MITCHELL MAKES ST JOHNSTONE LOAN SWITCH

St Johnstone have announced the signing of 'keeper Conor Mitchell on a season-long loan from Burnley.
The Northern Ireland U21 international trained with the Saints squad towards the end of last week before boss Tommy Wright moved to capture the 22-year-old to add to his goalkeeping options which include Zander Clark and Mark Hurst.
13:13

KLAASSEN NEARS BREMEN SWITCH

Everton midfielder Davy Klaassen’s move to Bundesliga side Werder Bremen is close to completion, according to Sky sources.
The former Ajax captain failed to nail down a regular starting place at Goodison Park and is on the brink of making the move to Germany.
Klaassen won’t be involved at Blackburn Rovers tonight.
12:56

TOP-FLIGHT TRANSFER TARGETS RATED

Sky Sports Fantasy Footballhas priced up potential Premier League transfer targets, rating Nabil Fekir and Gonzalo Higuain as the most valuable potential additions.
With just two weeks until the revised transfer deadline date of August 9, business looks set to crank up as Premier League sides prepare for the new campaign.
Arsenal, Liverpool and West Ham have made moves early but while Manchester United reportedly have domestic targets in Toby Alderweireld and Harry Maguire, plenty of further additions are expected from abroad.
Based on the most likely major deals according to Sky Bet's transfer odds, here are five big names expected to arrive and the Sky Sports Fantasy Football valuations you may just want to make a note of...
12:24

OLDHAM SIGN IVERSEN

Oldham have announced the signing of Leicester 'keeper Daniel Iversen on a season-long loan deal.
The 21-year-old Dane, who will wear the number one shirt during the loan spell, has been on trial with the Latics and featured in pre-season friendlies against Nottingham Forest and Girona.
Iversen joined Leicester from Esbjerg in January 2016, going into the club’s development squad. He has not made a first-team appearance for the Foxes.
12:00

UNITED MAKE MAGUIRE APPROACH

Man Utd have approached Leicester over the sale of their England centre-back Harry Maguire, SSN understands.
However, with a fortnight of the summer transfer window remaining, it looks like Jose Mourinho will have a battle on his hands, with Leicester adamant their star defender is staying at the King Power Stadium.
We understand United value the player, who starred in England's summer World Cup campaign, at around £65m.
Maguire is due to return from holiday in the next few days and is understood to be keen to make the move to Old Trafford.
11:53

LUNCH-TIME WHISPERS

Here are the latest transfer rumours from our friends at Football Whispers...
https://storify.com/services/proxy/2/VDm0MySpxb2hXz0YVvVSKQ/https/d2kmm3vx031a1h.cloudfront.net/XwuB7ttTeeEPBrFP5G5g_Capture.JPG
11:34

EURO PAPER TALK

• Edinson Cavani is Real Madrid’s new number one target after Chelsea demanded the Spanish giants pay £178m for Eden Hazard. Robert Lewandowski is also no longer a serious target for Real (AS).
  
• Chelsea contacted Barcelona once reports of their interest in Malcom started to surface, offering Willian for a cut price. The Catalan club were reluctant to continue the bidding war for Willian with Manchester United (Mundo Deportivo).
  
• Juventus will sell Manchester City transfer target Miralem Pjanic this summer, but only if they receive the same amount they paid to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid. The Bianconeri view the Bosnian as good as Ronaldo and want at least £89m for him (Calciomercato).
  

11:23

ARE YOU READY?

https://twitter.com/SkySports/status/1022436441526288385
11:02

LUNCH-TIME HEADLINES

OK for those of you just joining us - firstly where have you been? - but here is a quick roundup of where we stand with some of the day's main transfer stories...
10:41

DOUGALL TO HAVE BARNSLEY MEDICAL

Sparta Rotterdam defender Kenneth Dougall will undergo a medical at Barnsley on Thursday ahead of proposed move to Oakwell, according to Sky sources.
10:33

WATFORD STAND BY EVERTON COMPLAINT

Watford are standing by a complaint against Everton over an allegation of an illegal approach to former manager Marco Silva.
The clubs entered a mediation process at the request of the Premier League that involved club officials and their respective legal teams, but no conclusion was reached.
The sale of Richarlison to Everton had prompted reports a resolution had been found between the two clubs, but Watford say they have been "compelled" to reiterate the disciplinary process is still ongoing.
10:19

MILAN TOLD TO PAY £62M FOR MORATA

Chelsea have told Milan they will have to pay up to £62m for Alvaro Morata after initial negotiations got underway on Wednesday.
Sky Italy believe Milan’s new sporting director, Leonardo, had a series of phone conversations yesterday about a potential transfer, with the player reportedly keen on a return to Italy.
However, the two clubs remain poles apart on their valuations of the player, prompting Milan to retain their interest in bringing Gonzalo Higuain or Radamel Falcao to San Siro.
The 25-year old striker joined Chelsea last summer from Real Madrid for an initial £57m, with the job of replacing Diego Costa.
10:05

NEWCASTLE SIGN SCHAR

Newcastle have completed the signing of defender Fabian Schar from Deportivo La Coruna on a three-year deal.
https://twitter.com/NUFC/status/1022421302563487744
10:01

MOORE PENS NEW BLADES DEAL

Simon Moore has signed a new contract at Sheffield United, ending speculation of a move to West Brom.
The Baggies held discussions with the Blades over signing the 28-year old 'keeper as back-up to Sam Johnstone.
Moore has signed a new three year-deal, keeping him at Bramall Lane until the summer of 2021.
The player joined United from Cardiff for an undisclosed fee in August 2016 and has made a total of 64 appearances for United.
https://twitter.com/SUFC_tweets/status/1022417464712486912
09:54

CHELSEA MONITOR MILINKOVIC-SAVIC

Chelsea are keeping tabs on Lazio midfielder Sergei Milinkovic-Savic, says the Independent.
However, the Blues face competition from Man Utd and Real Madrid, although the Serbian would prefer a move to Stamford Bridge.
09:32

NEWCASTLE AND FULHAM IN MITROVIC STALEMATE

Newcastle and Fulham remain apart over their valuation of Aleksandar Mitrovic.
The Serb striker is back training on Tyneside after returning from an expended holiday following the World Cup.
09:11

MAN UTD PONDER £60M MAGUIRE MOVE

Jose Mourinho is urging Man Utd's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward to tie up a deal for Harry Maguire, according to reports in the Sun.
However, Leicester may demand £60m for the England international defender.
09:07

SCHAR UNDERGOES NEWCASTLE MEDICAL

Newcastle are closing in on Deportivo La Coruna defender Fabian Schar after activating a £3m release clause in his contract, according to Sky sources.
The Swiss international is due on Tyneside on Wednesday and will undergo a medical with the club.
Newcastle are looking to replace Chancel Mbemba, who they sold to Porto for £7m earlier this month.
The Magpies have been tracking Schar, who won three Swiss titles with Basel, for some time.
The 26-year-old left Basel to join Hoffenheim in 2015 where he made 30 appearances before joining Deportivo last year.
08:57

NEWCASTLE AGREE MUTO DEAL

Newcastle have agreed a deal with Mainz to sign striker Yoshinori Muto for £9.5m, according to Sky sources.
The 25-year-old Japanese striker is currently on a flight from Tokyo to Newcastle after they agreed a fee with Mainz, with the move subject to the player gaining a work permit.
Muto played for Japan in the World Cup in Russia.
08:55

SILVA HINTS AT NEW CHALLENGE

David Silva admits his latest contract at Man City will probably be his last at the club but says he wouldn't join a Premier League rival.
Silva signed a one-year contract extension at City last season to keep him at the club until 2020.
"When I finish my contract with Manchester City I will be 34 years old, at that time I will probably want to do something different," he said.
"I don't know yet but I won't play for another club in England.
"People always love me in England, it's been eight years - very successful years, and the football we've played has been very attractive. English people love that type of football - those type of games. And that's why I'm so happy here."
08:36

DERBY LAND MARRIOTT

Derby have completed a deal to sign 23-year-old striker Jack Marriott from Peterborough.
Sky Sports News understands Derby will make an initial payment of £3m, with significant add-ons that could see the fee rise to £5m.
https://twitter.com/dcfcofficial/status/1022398646782976000
08:24

GOLOVIN AGREES TO JOIN MONACO

CSKA Moscow midfielder Aleksandr Golovin has agreed to join Monaco, despite being heavily linked with Chelsea this summer.
The 22-year-old, who starred for Russia at the World Cup, is expected to sign a five-year contract with the Ligue 1 club and Sky Sports Newsunderstands the move could be completed in the next few days.
08:21

POCH: MANY SPURS RUMOURS

Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino has admitted there are currently "many rumours around the team" as the club continue to be linked with possible moves for Palace forward Wilfried Zaha and Villa midfielder Jack Grealish.
"There are many rumours around the team," Pochettino said after Spurs beat Roma 4-1 International Champions Cup in San Diego on Wednesday.
"I cannot talk and I don't want to talk because I think we need to be focused on trying to work hard and get in the best form for the first game of the season."
08:05

ERIKSSON NEARS IRAQ ROLE

Sven Goran Eriksson has agreed a deal in principle to take over as head coach of Iraq, according to Sky sources.
The Swede held positive talks with Iraqi FA officials in Istanbul last week.
Eriksson’s representative Saif Rubie says he has a couple of other options and will make his final decision in the next week.
08:03

MOURINHO: DARMIAN CAN LEAVE

Jose Mourinho has confirmed Matteo Darmian can leave Man Utd if a suitable bid comes in for him this summer.
Full-back Darmian has been linked with a return to Italy with either Inter Milan, Juventus or Napoli.
"Matteo wants to leave and I think when a player wants to leave, if the right offer arrives you have to try to be human and let the player follow his instinct but not at any price," he said after watching his side beat Milan on penalties on Wednesday night.
"And, until now, the offers we got for Matteo are not even close to being accepted."
08:00

PALACE MAKE £8.9M GONALONS OFFER

Crystal Palace have made an £8.9m offer for Roma midfielder Maxime Gonalons, according to Sky Italy.
The 29-year-old is a defensive midfielder who has eight caps for France.
Palace need midfield reinforcements following the departure of Yohan Cabaye.
07:52

MOURINHO: LIVERPOOL HAVE TO WIN

Man Utd boss Jose Mourinho says Liverpool have to win something next season after their heavy summer of spending.
"Maybe this season finally you demand that they win," he said after watching his side beat Milan on penalties on Wednesday night.
"You, I think, you have to be fair and now you have to demand and say the team with investments, who are making investments that they started making last season, not just this season, last season.
"That you made in January, that you make now, that will probably be the record of the Premier League this season, I don't see another team getting close to that level of investment, a team that was a finalist in the Champions League, you have to say you are a big candidate.
"You have to win."
07:46

WATFORD JOIN REYES RACE

Watford are interested in Mexico international defender Diego Reyes, according to Sky sources.
However, no formal offer has been made for the player so far.
Reyes is a free agent after he ran down his contract at Porto.
Newcastle and West Ham are two of a number of Premier League clubs who have also made an offer for the centre back.
07:42

POCH WON'T DISCUSS LLORENTE FUTURE

Mauricio Pochettino refused to discuss the future of Fernando Llorente after the Spanish striker scored twice in Spurs' 4-1 International Champions Cup win over Roma in San Diego.
Llorente is widely understood to be up for sale this summer after failing to make a big enough impression following his move from Swansea at the start of last season.
"I'm not going to talk about individual situations because if I'm going to talk now about someone I need to talk about everyone," he said.
"I am focusing on trying to work hard, trying to provide the team and every single player with the best tools to improve. Of course I'm happy when the striker scores and finds the net."
07:31

MOURINHO: NO PROBLEMS WITH MARTIAL

Man Utd boss Jose Mourinho says he has no problems with Anthony Martial leaving the club's pre-season tour to attend the birth of his first child.
Some reports in the press today had claimed Mourinho wanted the Frenchman out of the club due to his decision to leave the US.
"I found out that Martial was going to Paris when he told me," Mourinho said after watching his side beat Milan on penalties on Wednesday night. "Was two or three days ago.
"When it is personal reasons, everyone analyses that the way they think is the correct way and when a man is going to be a father in this case, it's the second time he is going to be a father, and he decides is very important for him to go, nobody has the right to stop him to go."
07:25

UNITED TARGET REBIC

Manchester United have made contact with the representatives of Ante Rebic, reports the Mail.
The Eintracht Frankfurt winger starred for Croatia at the recent World Cup in Russia, where his country were runners-up to France.
07:08

CHELSEA SIGN GREEN

Chelsea have completed the signing of 38-year old former England goalkeeper Rob Green on a one-year deal.
Green, who was released by Huddersfield at the end of last season, is likely to be third-choice keeper behind Thibaut Courtois and Willy Caballero at Stamford Bridge.
06:48

SHAQIRI: CRITICS WRONG ABOUT ME

New Liverpool signing Xherdan Shaqiri believes his critics are "totally wrong" about him.
06:34

REAL CLOSE IN ON COURTOIS

Real Madrid have agreed terms with Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, but Spurs No 1 Hugo Lloris is also a target, says the Mail.
The European champions are believed to be after a new 'keeper for the upcoming season.
06:28

MORNING WHISPERS

Here are the latest transfer rumours from our friends at Football Whispers...
https://storify.com/services/proxy/2/rSEbzTt0fMn9tzCZrBXqtA/https/d2kmm3vx031a1h.cloudfront.net/M1m6XliFTgefUZFiXg9m_2018-07-26-05-48-21-sky-top-10-graphic.png
06:17

PAPER TALK

Right, let's kick things off this morning with a quick roundup of some of the biggest stories making today's back pages...

• Real have agreed terms with Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois, but Spurs stopper Hugo Lloris is also a target (Mail)
  
• Jose Mourinho is urging Man Utd's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward to tie up a deal for Harry Maguire - even though Leicester may demand £60m for the defender (Sun)
  
• Liverpool and Everton have made offers for Croatia defender Domagoj Vida, according to the player's agent (Express)
  
• Jack Wilshere turned down an £8m signing-on fee and Champions League football at Fenerbahce in order to join West Ham (Star)
  
• Marcos Rojo is fearing for his United future after Jose Mourinho made signing a centre half a priority this summer (Telegraph)
  
• West Brom are the latest club to register interest in the Liverpool winger Sheyi Ojo as they bid to make an immediate return to the Premier League next season (Guardian)
  

06:06

GOOD MORNING!

Hi everyone and welcome to today's Transfer Centre as we bring you all the news, updates and gossip from around the world, so strap in tight and make sure you do not go anywhere...!
Join the discussion on Discord. I am a bot. Found any errors? Contact /Football Mods

Auto-Refreshing Transfer News Thread from Sky Sports
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21:56

THAT'S ALL FOLKS!

That's all we have time for this evening, many thanks for joining us. We'll be back here from 7am tomorrow with the latest news, rumours and done deals.
See you then!
21:42

TRANSFER HEADLINES

As we head towards the end of the day, here’s a recap of the day’s biggest stories:

• Man Utd are preparing to make a bid for Harry Maguire before the transfer window closes on Thursday, according to Sky sources.
  
• West Brom striker Salomon Rondon is on Tyneside to complete his move to Newcastle.
  
• Leicester have completed the signing of winger Rachid Ghezzal from AS Monaco for an undisclosed fee.
  
• Wolves are closing in on a club-record transfer for Middlesbrough winger Adama Traore, Sky Sports News has been told.
  
• Everton remain in contact with Barcelona over a deal to sign Colombia defender Yerry Mina, Sky Sports News understands.
  
• Pep Guardiola has confirmed Man City are trying to sign another midfielder before Thursday's transfer deadline.
  
• Ben Gibson has joined Burnley on a four-year deal from Middlesbrough for a joint club record fee.
  

21:28

WOLVES CLOSE ON TRAORE

Wolves are closing in on a club-record transfer for Middlesbrough winger Adama Traore and a deal has been agreed, Sky Sports News has been told.
Traore has a release clause in his Boro contract of £18m, but it’s understood Wolves are likely to pay more than that, with an initial £10m up front, and more in installments which will take the total fee over £20m, depending on appearances.
There is broad agreement over personal terms. He is expected to complete a medical tomorrow.
21:21

WILLIAN STAYING PUT

https://twitter.com/SkyKaveh/status/1026214759522349058
21:05

MINA STIL ON EVERTON'S RADAR

Everton remain in contact with Barcelona over a deal to sign Colombia defender Yerry Mina, Sky Sports News understands.
Reports in Spain have claimed a deal is already in place between the two clubs with Everton paying just over £28m for Mina.
Mina scored three goals in the World Cup, including the late equaliser that sent their last-16 tie with England to extra-time.
20:51

VIDAL IN BARCELONA

Arturo Vidal has arrived in Barcelona ahead of his official unveiling tomorrow afternoon.
The midfielder completed his move to the club from Bayern Munich on Friday, signing a three-year deal.
https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1026193897503027206
20:29

MEE CLOSE TO NEW DEAL

Ben Mee is close to signing a new deal with Burnley, the Lancashire Telegraph reports.
Talks over an extended contract have rumbled on for months, but the newspaper says an agreement is close.
20:08

DUO MAKE DEBUTS

https://twitter.com/atletienglish/status/1026171990535806976
19:51

GOFF GOES ON LOAN

Northampton Town goalkeeper James Goff has joined Banbury United on a month's loan.
19:33

PEP UNSURE ON DUO

Man City manager Pep Guardiola has suggested that midfielder Douglas Luiz, loaned to Girona last summer, can play a role in the first team if he is awarded a work permit.
There is yet to be any confirmation of his status, nor is there any news on Joe Hart's expected exit to Burnley.
"I don't know [the latest situation]," Guardiola said. "I know they are in touch, but I don't know if it's already done because I didn't speak with the club, I didn't speak with Txiki [Begiristain, City's director of football] about Joe."
19:18

MOURINHO WARNS OF DIFFICULT SEASON

Jose Mourinho fears Manchester United are in for a "difficult season" if he is unable to add to his squad before Thursday's deadline.
"My CEO knows what I want for quite a long time," he told MUTV. "He knows what I want, I know that he tries to do the best for me and I still have a few days to wait what is going to happen.
"The other clubs who compete with us are really strong and have fantastic squads, like Chelsea, Tottenham or Manchester City, or they are investing massively like Liverpool, that are buying everything and everybody.
"And if we don't make our team better it will be a difficult season for us."
19:01

MILINKOVIC-SAVIC COY ON MOVE

Chelsea target Sergej Milinkovic-Savic refused to dismiss rumours that he may leave Lazio before the transfer window ends.
He told the club's official website: “I have returned to Lazio, I have a contract with the club and I am focused on the experience and on my team.
"Despite this, in football you never know how things can evolve."
18:42

RONDON ON TYNESIDE

Salomon Rondon is on Tyneside to complete his move to Newcastle, Sky Sports News understands.
He was due to take his medical today. Newcastle and West Brom have agreed a season-long swap for the Venezuelan and Dwight Gayle, with Newcastle paying a fee of around £2m.
Gayle is in the Midlands finalising his part of the deal.
18:40

LEICESTER SIGN GHEZZAL

Leicester have signed Rachid Ghezzal from Monaco for an undisclosed fee, subject to Premier League approval.
The 26-year-old winger has signed a four-year contract and is the Foxes fifth signing of the summer after the arrivals of Ricardo Pereira, Jonny Evans, James Maddison and Danny Ward.
Ghezzal has been capped 13 times for Algeria and played at the 2017 African Cup of Nations.
18:38

DONE DEAL

https://twitter.com/LCFC/status/1026174019274502144
18:20

PEP TARGETS MIDFIELDER

Pep Guardiola is trying to push through the signing of a holding midfielder before Thursday's transfer deadline.
"We are trying," he said after Sunday's 2-0 win against Chelsea in the Community Shield. "We would like to find maybe one more because we don't have two specific players to substitute Fernandinho. But if he doesn't come, there won't be anyone else."
18:02

INTER ENTER BERNARD CHASE

Inter Milan have joined the race to sign Bernard, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Brazil winger is a free agent after running down his contract at Shakhtar Donetsk and had been thought to be close to joining AC Milan, with Chelsea also interested, but Inter have also made an offer.
17:47

LENNON SURPRISED BY McGINN INTEREST

Hibernian head coach Neil Lennon is surprised more suitors have not emerged for John McGinn.
Only Celtic have bid so far for McGinn, who set up Hibs' second goal in a 3-0 win over Motherwell on Sunday, but the Edinburgh club have rejected three offers. Brighton and Blackburn have also been linked.
"The only concrete bid we have had is from Celtic and that hasn't met our valuation," said Lennon.
"I would be amazed if we didn't get more offers in for him. He is outstanding, he is at the peak of his powers, and he has handled the situation brilliantly. That speaks volumes, not only of the player he is, but the personality as well because it can't be easy for him. He was outstanding again.
"He is one of the best I have worked with in terms of what he brings to the team and his influence. If he does go, he will leave a huge hole. But whether he is here on Thursday or not, it's going to be a fraught couple of days."
17:31

FLYING START FOR BIELSA

https://twitter.com/SkyFootball/status/1026158188155097088
17:21

WHERE IS MARTIAL?

Anthony Martial is not in the Manchester United squad for this final pre-season game against Bayern Munich as his future at the club remains unclear.
Martial left United's pre-season tour of the United to attend the birth of his son but failed to report back for over a week and suggested his partner Melanie da Cruz had been unwell.
Martial's agent clarified in June the forward wants to leave United and Jose Mourinho is open to selling him, according to reports.
Head here to follow the game!
17:09

SARRI NOT INTERESTED IN AGENT

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri says he is "not interested" in what Thibaut Courtois' agent has to say after he publicly asked the Blues to let the goalkeeper go to Real Madrid for personal reasons.
"I am not interested in the agent. I want to hear Courtois. If Courtois tomorrow will say to me the same, I have to speak with my player of course. I want only players who play with a very high level of motivation," he said.
16:58

OBIANG MOVE OFF

West Ham midfielder Pedro Obiang is unlikely to re-join former club Sampdoria after the two clubs failed to agree a fee, reports TMW.
Sampdoria want to re-sign Obiang, who joined West Ham from the Serie A side in 2015, and offered €10m (£8.9m) for the Spaniard. However, the Hammers are seeking a fee of €12m (£10.6m) for the 26-year-old and it has proven to be a stumbling block.
16:40

LISTEN: SUNDAY SUPP PODCAST

Neil Ashton was joined by Matt Dickinson, Jason Burt and Raphael Honigstein to discuss all the big talking points on the first Sunday Supplement show of the new season.
16:22

FODEN STAYING?

There has been speculation this summer over Man City midfielder Phil Foden, and if he would be loaned out to another club for more playing time and experience in the upcoming season.
However, it looks like Pep Guardiola is planning on keeping him as City look to defend their Premier League title...
Foden set up Sergio Aguero for his opening goal as Man City beat Chelsea 2-0 in the Community Shield at Wembley this afternoon.
https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1026136265454956544
16:07

JOAO MARIO WANTS PL MOVE

Joao Mario still wants a permanent move to the Premier League this summer, Tuttosport reports.
The Inter Milan midfielder is attracting attention from Everton and Leicester City and wants a deal to be reached before next week's deadline in England.
15:50

MALDINI RETURNS TO MILAN

AC Milan have appointed Paolo Maldini as the club's new Sporting Strategy and Development Director.
Maldini spent 25 years as a player at AC Milan, winning 26 trophies.
15:36

UTD PREPARING MAGUIRE BID

Sky sources understand Manchester United are preparing to make bid for Harry Maguire before Thursday’s deadline.
The Leicester and England defender is Jose Mourinho’s number one target and United are aware it will take a world record bid for a defender for Leicester to sell.
Maguire is returning to training at Leicester tomorrow. He has been given extra time off after England reached the semi-finals of the World Cup in Russia.
Leicester play at United in the first game of the new Premier League season on Friday, live on Sky Sports. Alternatives to Maguire are Toby Alderweireld and Yerry Mina.
15:30

BIELSA DEBUT

New Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa has just kicked off his first game of the Sky Bet Championship season against Stoke, who also have a new manager at the helm in Gary Rowett.
Head here to follow the action or watch live on Sky Sports Football NOW!
15:17

'A HUGE STEP FOR ME'

Defender Ben Gibson says his move to Burnley from Middlesbrough is a 'huge step' and is proud to have arrived at Turf Moor.
“I’m absolutely delighted. It’s a big step for me. I’ve played for Middlesbrough for 15 years since I was a boy so it’s a huge step and one I’m really, really excited about,” Gibson told Clarets Player HD.
“There’s a good feel about the place. Burnley is a club that recently has had some fantastic success and I’ve had some great battles against them myself and I’m looking forward to wearing their colours.
“We are very proud to be here and I just can’t wait to get started.”
15:00

FOXES CLOSE ON GHEZZAL

Sky sources understand Leicester City are close to signing Monaco winger Rachid Ghezzal.
The clubs have agreed a deal that could be worth £10m and the player has been having a medical ahead of the transfer. Personal terms not expected to be a problem.
14:46

GUNDOGAN TOPS INTER LIST

Ilkay Gundogan is now top of Inter Milan's wish list, according to Tuttosport.
The Serie A club have targeted Luka Modric and Arturo Vidal, who joined Barcelona, this summer, but are more likely to sign the Manchester City midfielder who could be available for £36m (€40m).
14:28

WATCH: 'QUESTIONS OVER EMERY'

There are question marks over new Arsenal boss Unai Emery, according to the Sunday Supplement panel.
Hit play to watch or head here to read!
14:13

TRANSFER HEADLINES

Here are the main stories from the transfer world today:

• Ben Gibson has joined Burnley on a four-year deal from Middlesbrough for a joint club record fee.
  
• Sky Sports News understands West Ham are in talks with Benfica over the signing of Joao Felix and Porto for striker Moussa Marega.
  
• Bournemouth have agreed a deal for defender Jack Simpson to go on loan to Rangers.
  
• Sky sources understand Ipswich have accepted a bid from Middlesbrough for their striker Martyn Waghorn.
  

13:57

HOW DID ALISSON, TORREIRA DO?

Two high-profile summer signings, Alisson and Lucas Torreira, made their first pre-season appearances for Liverpool and Arsenal respectively on Saturday.
We analyse how they both fared...
13:40

MAHREZ AND JORGINHO START AT WEMBLEY

Riyad Mahrez has been named in Man City's starting XI for this afternoon's Community Shield clash against Chelsea.
Mahrez completed a £60m move from Leicester over the summer and makes his competitive debut at Wembley.
Meanwhile, Maurizio Sarri takes charge of Chelsea in his first competitive match and named summer signing Jorginho in his side.
Follow the game here
13:35

CHELSEA SET FOR HAZARD TALKS

Chelsea will hold talks with Eden Hazard over his future at Stamford Bridge on Monday, reports the Sunday Times.
The Blues are set to offer the Belgium international a £300,000-a-week contract to stay in west London.
13:17

CILLESSEN IN DARK OVER BARCA FUTURE

Jasper Cillessen admits he is unsure about his future at Barcelona.
It has been reported that the Dutch 'lkeeper, who has played second fiddle to Marc-Andre ter Stegen over the past two seasons, wants to leave the Nou Camp in search of regular first-team football.
When asked about his future after Barca's 1-0 defeat against Milan, the former Ajax man revealed that he is in the dark.
“I don’t know, I don’t know how my future is,” he is quoted as saying in AS.
12:48

BREAKING NEWS

Burnley have completed the signing of defender Ben Gibson from Middlesbrough on a four-year deal.
The centre back had his medical in the North West on Saturday after Boro accepted a £15m bid on Friday.
Gibson signed his contract on Sunday morning before taking in this afternoon’s friendly against Espanyol at Turf Moor.
12:31

'SCATTERGUN UNITED LACK IDENTITY'

Jose Mourinho's Manchester United "lack identity" thanks to a "scattergun" transfer approach, the Sunday Supplement panel said.
12:00

PERISIC OPENS BAYERN DOOR

Ivan Perisic has opened the door to joining Bayern Munich, talking about the influence manager and fellow Croatian Niko Kovac has had on him, reports Bild.
The Inter winger also admitted that he would like to play in “Spain or England in the future,” but that the Champions League is most important to him now.
11:26

EURO PAPER TALK: INTER TARGET GUNDOGAN

Inter Milan reportedly target Man City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, plus more from the papers across the continent.
11:10

CONTE REJECTED REAL

Meanwhile, Antonio Conte turned down the chance to become the Real Madrid manager this summer, the Daily Telegraph's Chief Football Correspondent Jason Burt told the Sunday Supplement.
The Italian first wanted to sort out his departure from Stamford Bridge before committing to a new club.
10:52

CITY WANTED SARRI

Man City wanted Maurizio Sarri to replace Pep Guardiola at the Etihad had the Catalan left the club this summer, according to the Daily Telegraph's Chief Football Correspondent Jason Burt.
However, Sarri went on to take over from Antonio Conte at Chelsea.
10:32

CHELSEA TO BEAT REDS TO RAMSEY

Chelsea are ready to pip Liverpool to the £35m signing of Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey before Thursday's deadline reports the Sunday Express.
Ramsey has 12 months remaining on his contract at the Emirates and the Wales international, speaking last week, admitted he is unsure over his future.
10:10

WEST HAM'S BRAHIMI DEAL OFF

West Ham will not pursue Porto winger Yacine Brahimi at this stage, according to Sky sources.
A deal was in place between the clubs, but personal terms could not be agreed.
09:53

RANGERS' SIMPSON LOAN DELAYED

Bournemouth have agreed a deal to send centre-back Jack Simpson on loan to Rangers, according to Sky sources.
However, the deal has been delayed after a potential injury to Nathan Ake.
The defender picked up a knock during Bournemouth’s friendly against Marseille on Saturday and will be checked by the club’s medical team.
The injury isn’t thought to be serious, but a deal for Simpson will only be approved once Ake’s fitness is assured.
09:49

WEST HAM STILL IN FELIX, MAREGA TALKS

West Ham remain in talks with Benfica over the signing of attacking midfielder Joao Felix (pictured), according to Sky sources.
A deal is close and there is a willingness from all parties to get it done.
Meanwhile, West Ham continue to negotiate with Porto over striker Moussa Marega.
The clubs remain apart in their valuation for the player.
09:31

KLOPP: PLAYERS MAY LEAVE

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp says some players may leave the club before Thursday's deadline.
Both Divock Origi and Danny Ings could reportedly be set for moves away from Anfield.
"Yes," was Klopp's direct answer when quizzed on whether he expected business in or out of the club to occur, before then going on to elaborate.
"I cannot kill your D-day [Sky Sports Deadline Day] show, people sit there in front of the television all day waiting."
09:06

BORO'S WAGHORN BID ACCEPTED

Middlesbrough have this morning had a bid for striker Martyn Waghorn accepted by Ipswich, Sky Sports News understands.
Talks have now started over personal terms and Boro hope they can complete the deal in time for Waghorn to feature in Tuesday nights’ game at home to sheffield united.
The news will come as a blow to Derby, who also want to sign Waghorn. However, because of Financial Fair Play, they were trying to sell Matej Vydra first, but his move to Leeds fell through a few days ago because the player couldn’t agree personal terms.
08:51

BENITEZ STILL LOOKING TO ADD

Rafael Benitez is still hoping to add to his Newcastle squad before Thursday's transfer deadline.
08:26

UNITED TO MAKE LATE WILLIAN MOVE

Man Utd will launch a last-ditch bid to sign Willian from Chelsea, who is Jose Mourinho's top summer target, reports the Sunday Mirror.
The Brazil international, 29, is contracted to the Blues until the summer of 2020.
08:03

PEP WANTS LONG-TERM STERLING DEAL

Pep Guardiola says there is "no doubt" everyone at Man City wants Raheem Sterling to sign a new contract.
Ahead of Sunday's Community Shield against Chelsea, Guardiola said: "There's no doubt we want him.
"He knows, his agent knows. We want him. Txiki [Begiristain, City's director of football] spoke with him.
"It's clear since the first day I arrived we want him, but the deals are the deals, and the agents are the agents, and the players are the players.
"So, at the end, I don't know what is going to happen, but I assure you 100 per cent that the club, myself like a manager, sport director, even his team-mates - we want him to stay longer here."
07:34

EMERY: WE MAY LET PLAYERS GO

Arsenal boss Unai Emery has suggested that the Gunners may be willing to let players go before the window shuts.
07:19

KLOPP HINTS AT FINAL SIGNING

Jurgen Klopp has hinted Liverpool's transfer window business may not be over as Deadline Day approaches.
The German manager was asked about potential activity in the final few days of the window, which is due to shut at 5pm on Thursday, following a 5-0 victory over Napoli in Dublin.
"We will see what happens," Klopp replied on the subject of any potential last minute deals.
06:57

UNITED CLOSE ON ALDERWEIRELD

Man Utd are set to complete a £60m move for Tottenham defender Toby Alderweireld in the next 48 hours, says the Sunday Mirror.
The Red Devils had previously been unwilling to meet Spurs' £75m valuation of the 29-year-old, but a breakthrough now appears to have been reached between the two clubs.
06:35

CHELSEA NEAR £75M ZAHA MOVE

Chelsea are in pole position to sign £75m-rated Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha, reports the Sunday Mirror.
It had been expected that Tottenham would also make a move for the Ivorian, only for the north London club to drop their interest in the player.
06:20

PAPER TALK

Right, let's kick things off this morning with a quick roundup of some of the biggest stories making today's back pages...

• Man Utd are set to complete a £60m move for Spurs defender Toby Alderweireld in the next 48 hours (Mirror)
  
• Inter have failed in a move to sign Tottenham midfielder Mousa Dembele (Sun)
  
• Jose Mourinho is not giving up hopes of signing Leicester and England centre-back Harry Maguire, who has been priced up at £80m by his club (Express)
  
• Agent Mino Raiola will have talks with Man Utd this week over the future of midfielder Paul Pogba, with Barcelona among the teams hovering with interest (Star)
  
• Chelsea will hold talks with Eden Hazard over his future on Monday, with a £300,000-a-week contract on the table when he returns from a post-World Cup holiday (Times)
  
• Tottenham have been told they will have to pay a premium price to sign Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish (Mail)
  

06:09

GOOD MORNING!

Hi everyone and welcome to today's Transfer Centre as we bring you all the news, updates and gossip from around the world, so strap in tight and make sure you do not go anywhere...!
Join the discussion on Discord. I am a bot. Found any errors? Contact /Football Mods

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22:23

GOOD NIGHT!

And on that final bit of news, that's it for the day! See you bright and early for more.
22:19

UNITED SELL BLIND

Daley Blind has left Manchester United and returned to former club Ajax, in a deal which could reach £18.5m. The initial fee the Dutch club will pay is £14.1m, just £100,000 more than they sold Blind to the Red Devils for four years ago.
21:23

BOGA NEARS CHELSEA EXIT

Chelsea midfielder Jeremie Boga is close to leaving Stamford Bridge, according to Goal, who state the 21-year-old has had an offer accepted from Sassuolo of around £3.5m.
The Blues man is yet to agree personal terms over any move, the website also claims.
20:05

HEARTS ASSISTANT TO REMAIN

Hearts assistant manager and Northern Ireland coach Austin McPhee will stay with the Edinburgh club after knocking back an approach from Indian Super League team Pune City, they have announced.
19:52

MBAPPE TO UNITED?

Kylian Mbappe could join Manchester United - with Paul Pogba potentially allowed to leave Old Trafford - according to Don Balon.
The Spanish newspaper, known for its hit-and-miss calls, states Jose Mourinho has prepared a world-record bid for the 19-year-old, and would be tempted to cash in on Pogba to facilitate the transfer.
19:13

TOTTENHAM CHASE QUINTERO

Colombia star Juan Quintero, arguably his country's shining light at the World Cup alongside Yerry Mina, is a target for Tottenham according to Ths Sun.
18:12

BUTTON JOINS BRIGHTON

Fulham back-up goalkeeper David Button has joined Brighton and Hove Albion.
The 29-year-old has joined the Seagulls on a three-year deal.
Manager Chris Hughton said: "We’re delighted to bring a goalkeeper of David’s experience to the club.
“With Christian Walton and Robert Sanchez going out on loan this season, we felt we needed someone to provide further competition for places in that area of the team."
17:47

FONTE BACK TO PREMIER LEAGUE?

Jose Fonte has seen his contract at Chinese club Dalian Yifang torn up - and he's now keen on a return to the Premier League.
The Portuguese defender, who featured for his country at the World Cup in Russia, played just seven times for the club after his move from the London Stadium in January.
17:24

LOAN FOR HERRERA

Rangers striker Eduardo Herrera has joined Mexican side Santos Laguna on a 12-month loan deal.
Herrera previously played on loan there when Pedro Caixinha was manager of Santos, who have a partnership arrangement with Celtic.
The 29-year-old was signed again by Caixinha for Rangers last summer but only scored two goals in 24 appearances and had been sidelined by new boss Steven Gerrard during pre-season.
17:16

WATCH: RONALDO SIGNING SHOWS JUVE AMBITION

Football finance expert Fausto Zanetton told Sky Sports News on the day Cristiano Ronaldo was unveiled as a Juventus playerhis signing showed the Old Lady's ambition - click play below to hear his full views.
17:14

KHAZRI LEAVES STADIUM OF LIGHT

Wahbi Khazri has completed his move from Sunderland to Saint-Etienne following an impressive World Cup for Tunisia.
The 27-year-old scored twice in Russia, as well as 11 times in 29 games for Rennes in France on loan last season.
17:04

SUNDERLAND MAKE SECOND WYKE BID

Sunderland have not given up their pursuit of Charlie Wyke, and Sky Sports News understands the Black Cats have returned with a second bid of £600,000 for the Bradford man.
Bradford are understood to be considering the offer, with Bolton waiting in the wings with interest as well.
16:53

SANCHEZ MISSES UTD TOUR ON 'VISA ISSUES'

Alexis Sanchez has missed Manchester United's tour of North America with visa issues, throwing his pre-season preparation into problems.
The Chilean has blamed a 'personal administrative issue', meaning he will miss the whole of their two-and-a-half-week trip as it stands - although United are hopeful of a resolution.
16:17

BLACK CATS LOOK TO EVANS

Sunderland are close to an agreement with Reading for midfielder George Evans, Sky Sports News understands.
The two clubs are negotiating a fee of just less than £1m for the 23-year-old, who is a former England Under-19, but remain slightly apart.
He joined the Royals in 2016, having previously been with Manchester City's academy, but played only five times in the Sky Bet Championship last season.
16:10

TWO IN AT VALLEY PARADE

Bradford City have signed Huddersfield Town midfielder Jack Payne on a season-long loan, and also Middlesbrough striker George Miller for the same period.
15:44

EVENING WHISPERS

Here's the latest movers and shakers from our friends at Football Whispers about the biggest transfers which look to be on their way...
https://storify.com/services/proxy/2/7v_LIAYlL6Z1hxZWtn-qcg/https/d2kmm3vx031a1h.cloudfront.net/lgsCpPr1QKaFhuw2X6NC_2018-07-16-16-41-19-sky-top-10-graphic.png
15:33

PEARSON JOINS SILKMEN

Former Leicester City and Barnet defender James Pearson has joined Macclesfield Town on a one-year deal.
The 25-year-old left The Hive last season, joining Coventry on non-contract terms before moving to Kidderminster Harriers.
15:10

SARRI VOWS TO MAKE CHELSEA 'FUN'

Following a largely miserable season for Chelsea in 2017/18 - even with an FA Cup win in May - new boss Maurizio Sarri has vowed to bring the fun back to Stamford Bridge, as quoted in the Daily Mail.
Sarri said: "In Naples I was very lucky to find my players adapted to my way of football. They were strong as players, and strong from a human point of view. I was lucky to transport my idea of football onto the pitch, with the quality of these players.
"The players have to enjoy themselves. First of all, I hope the fans can enjoy the team. I want to bring enjoyment to the fans, the fans have to be proud of the team. One hundred per cent hard work and 90 per cent fun.
"It is impossible in my job to promise something else but I will surely give all in my possession to win something with Chelsea."
15:01

A NEW BOND

West Brom have signed goalkeeper Jonathan Bond on a two-year contract. The 25-year-old was a free agent after leaving Reading.
14:56

MOWBRAY STAYING PATIENT

Blackburn manager Tony Mowbray is playing the waiting game as he looks to add to his squad.
"It's difficult because the Premier League teams have just come back, because of the World Cup," he told the club website.
"They've generally taken their young players with them, because their international players are not back yet or are still on holiday, so they need to make sure their squads are deep and strong enough to play games.
"So the players that probably will be available to go out on loan are not available at the moment, so we have to be patient and wait."
14:42

HILTON: THIS IS THE START

Goalkeeper Joe Hilton, 18, has signed a one-year deal with Everton.
Hilton joined the Toffees from Manchester City in 2016 and has been part of the first team's pre-season training camp in Austria.
"Signing this new deal means a lot," he told the club website. "I’ve put in a lot of hard work and I think this shows it has paid off. Hopefully it’s the start of a good career."
14:35

SAMMON MAKES SWITCH

Motherwell have made Conor Sammon their sixth signing of the summer.
The Republic of Ireland striker has joined on a season-long loan from Hearts.
14:30

THOMAS JOINS DONS

Signing number seven for AFC Wimbledon...
https://twitter.com/AFCWimbledon/status/1018865281953927168
14:25

ANOTHER LOAN FOR BORJA

Before we get the AFC Wimbledon announcement, there's news of a departure of sorts from Swansea.
Borja Baston has joined La Liga side Alaves on a season-long loan, having spent last season with Malaga.
Borja joined Swansea for a club-record £15.5million from Atletico Madrid in 2016.
14:21

AFC ANNOUNCEMENT

Will it be kind of a big deal for AFC Wimbledon?
https://twitter.com/AFCWimbledon/status/1018862681862950912
14:10

CRAWLEY SIGN STRIKER

Reece Grego-Cox has signed a two-year deal with Crawley after impressing on trial.
The 21-year-old started his career with QPR and made five first-team appearances.
13:53

TRANSFER CENTRE

A round-up of all the top transfer news on SSN this afternoon...
13:38

NEW DEAL FOR BIALKOWSKI

Goalkeeper Bartosz Bialkowski has signed a new three-year contract with Ipswich.
Birmingham had been interested in signing him this summer but are currently under an EFL transfer embargo.
13:15

MONACO BID FOR GOLOVIN

Monaco have made an offer to CSKA Moscow for Alexsandr Golovin
The Russia midfielder is a Chelsea target, according to Sky in Italy. Monaco Vice President Vadim Vasilyev told Russian newspaper Sport Express that the bid is “a more than generous offer” but warned they “cannot wait long.” He predicts a conclusion “in the coming days.”
Vasilyev said: “We have made an offer for CSKA Moscow for Golovin. A more than generous offer. The contract length offered is five years. I think that a transition in a club like Monaco is best option for him, at this stage in his career.
"Everything should be decided in the coming days, maybe even today. We cannot wait long. If it does not come off, we will look to another option.”
12:53

HOW GOOD IS JORGINHO?

Following Chelsea’s £57m signing Jorginho, Adam Bate gets the thoughts of the midfielder’s former coaches to find out what makes him so special and why he can transform the team’s style of play under Maurizio Sarri.
Read the feature HERE
12:32

CONTE RELEASES STATEMENT

Former Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has released a statement through the League Managers Association after being dismissed by the club last week.
He said: “I would like to thank all of my friends at Chelsea Football Club for their hard work and support over the past two seasons which enabled us to win the Premier League and FA Cup together. “To the players, whose talent and commitment was so important to our successes, I thank them for everything. It has been a pleasure working with them every day. To my staff, who always worked so hard, I must say thank you and well done for their professionalism and dedication throughout. “I have enjoyed my time in England and London so much and I want to thank the Chelsea fans who have been amazing to me and my Family. It was fantastic for me to be able to share my emotions, passion and enthusiasm throughout two unforgettable seasons with these amazing Chelsea supporters, who will always stay in my heart. “I hope Chelsea will continue to be successful and I wish everyone well for next season. I have made many memories during my time with Chelsea, which I will take with me into my next challenge.”
12:29

RONALDO'S DOMINO EFFECT?

Cristiano Ronaldo's shock move to Juventus has got the world talking, but it could have a significant impact in the Premier League, too.
Head here to see how his move could cause a transfer domino effect...
12:16

CARROLL ON LOAN?

West Ham striker Andy Carroll has reportedly been offered on loan to Besiktas for next season, according to Turkish outlet Fanatik.
12:00

LEEDS SIGN BLACKMAN

Right on cue... Leeds United have confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Jamal Blackman on a season-long loan deal.
Blackman joins the club from Premier League side Chelsea and becomes the second signing of the summer transfer window.
The 24-year-old spent last season on loan with fellow Yorkshire outfit Sheffield United.
11:56

LEEDS ARE UP TO SOMETHING...

https://twitter.com/LUFC/status/1018823812077371393
11:50

BIALKOWSKI'S CONTRACT TALKS

Bartosz Bialkowski is in talks over a new Ipswich contract, according to Sky sources.
The Championship club hope to reach an agreement with the goalkeeper over the next few days.
Birmingham have been interested in signing him this summer but are currently under an EFL transfer embargo.
11:44

YARMOLENKO PROFILE

West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini expects £17.5m signing Andriy Yarmolenko to be well suited to the Premier League, but what exactly will he bring to the London Stadium?
Ukranian football expert Russ Taylor takes a look...
11:29

LATEST WHISPERS

Here is the latest round-up from our friends at Football Whispers...
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11:19

RODWELL ON TRIAL AT WATFORD

Sky sources: Midfielder Jack Rodwell is on trial with Watford, and is currently in Austria at their pre-season training camp
Rodwell, 27, is a free agent after leaving Sunderland in the summer.
11:16

CITY'S MIDFIELD SEARCH

Manchester City are considering whether to move for another central midfielder this summer – after their number one target Jorginho signed for Chelsea.
They’ve looked at Mateo Kovacic, but we understand they would not be willing to pay Real Madrid’s reported £80m asking price.
City have also shown interest in Mario Lemina from Southampton, but it’s not now certain they’ll strengthen before the window closes in August. We’re told that Pep Guardiola is happy with his squad as they prepare to fly to the USA tomorrow for their pre-season tour.
City broke their transfer record last week when they completed a £60m deal for Riyad Mahrez.
11:09

JUVE FANS WELCOME RONALDO

Juventus fans have wasted no time in buying shirts with Cristiano Ronaldo's name on the back following his move to Turin.
10:56

N'ZONZI UPDATE

Sevilla will not sell midfielder Steven N’Zonzi unless his £35m release clause is activated, according to the Spanish club's director of football Joaquin Caparros.
Sky sources understand Arsenal have held initial talks with Sevilla over a deal for the France World Cup winner, but it is likely the Gunners would need to sell before financing the move.
N’Zonzi, who previously played for Blackburn Rovers and Stoke in the Premier League, has two years remaining on his current contract at Sevilla.
Caparros told Cadena Ser: “Steven has two years remaining on his contract. We have texted each other during the World Cup and I have congratulated him on his achievements with France, of course.
“We have not received any offers for him and I will say the same to any clubs who may be interested as what we said with Lenglet – he has a buyout clause, and it’s £35m."
10:48

TRANSFER CENTRE

A round-up of all the best transfer headlines so far today...
10:31

SUNDERLAND CLOSE ON EVANS

Sunderland have agreed a deal for Reading midfielder George Evans, according to the Northern Echo.
The Black Cats, now in League One, will pay around £250k for the 23-year-old.
10:14

BURY SIGN STOKES

Bury have signed Coventry City left-back Chris Stokes on a free transfer.
The 27-year-old signs a two-year deal, having played 35 times for Coventry last term.
09:51

MILINKOVIC-SAVIC NEXT FOR CHELSEA?

Chelsea are interested in Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, according to Corriere dello Sport.
They've already gazumped one Manchester club with their signing of Jorginho, and with Milinkovic-Savic having been linked with United, could the 23-year-old be the second?
09:36

WEST BROM SIGN BARTLEY

West Brom have signed defender Kyle Bartley from Swansea.
Bartley has signed a three-year contract with the Sky Bet Championship club.
https://twitter.com/WBA/status/1018789765808836608
09:33

ARSENAL UPDATE: N'ZONZI AND RAMSEY

Arsenal manager Unai Emery has not ruled out making more signings before the transfer window shuts, but says he would only consider a “big opportunity”.
We are told Arsenal have held initial talks about Sevilla midfielder Steven N’Zonzi, but it is likely there would have to be departures to accommodate the French international.
A big priority is the future of Aaron Ramsey; talks continue over a new contract with Arsenal hopeful of a positive resolution. Ramsey has one year left on his contract.
09:14

JUVE FANS EXCITED

Juventus supporters believe Cristiano Ronaldo can lead them to the Champions League title during his time in Turin.
09:02

LOPEZ TO EVERTON?

Everton are interested in Espanyol’s David Lopez, according to Mundo Deportivo. The 28-year-old defensive midfielder has also been linked with Real Betis and Valencia.
08:43

TRANSFER TALK: RONALDO EXIT EXPLAINED

Graham Hunter reveals the reasons behind Cristiano Ronaldo's departure from Real Madrid.
08:20

BENFICA WANT SANCHES

Benfica are interested in former-Swansea City midfielder Renato Sanches, according to O Jogo.
The 20-year-old midfielder is back with Bayern Munich, following a disastrous loan spell in South Wales, but the Portuguese club are hoping that new manager Niko Kovac will be prepared to let the youngster go.
07:57

'WE WERE OFFERED RONALDO'

Napoli were offered the chance to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid, according to the Serie A club's president.
Ronaldo joined Juventus last week in a £105m deal and will be presented on Monday.
But De Laurentiis told La Repubblica that "Ronaldo was also offered to Napoli. [Jorge] Mendes, his agent, called me. We formulated our offer and would have paid Ronaldo with the percentage of the income guaranteed by his arrival.
"[But] the €350m that Juventus invested [including wages] is beyond our reach. We would have risked pushing the club towards bankruptcy."
07:40

WHO WILL REPLACE RONALDO?

Graham Hunter reveals the players Real Madrid are targeting following Cristiano Ronaldo's move to Juventus.
07:25

UNITED 'STILL KEEN ON BALE'

Manchester United remain interested in Gareth Bale ahead of his meeting with new Real Madrid boss Julen Lopetegui this week.
The Daily Mail are reporting that the Welshman is seeking assurances from Lopetegui, and with Real publicly denying they will sign Neymar or Kylian Mbappe this summer, Bale could play a bigger part.
07:13

LIVERPOOL IN FOR CILLESSEN?

Liverpool may bid for Barcelona goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen this summer, according to Mundo Deportivo.
The 29-year-old Dutchman has spent most of his time on the Barcelona bench since moving from Ajax in 2016, but reports also suggest Cillessen may want to stay to fight for his place under current No 1 Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
06:53

HOW GOOD IS JORGINHO?

Following Chelsea’s £57m signing Jorginho, Adam Bate gets the thoughts of the midfielder’s former coaches to find out what makes him so special and why he can transform the team’s style of play under Maurizio Sarri.
06:34

RONALDO UNVEILING TODAY

Cristiano Ronaldo has arrived in Turin to complete the formalities of his £105m switch to Juventus from Real Madrid.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, whose transfer was announced on July 10, will have a medical with the Italian club today, before holding a news conference later this afternoon.
06:20

HAZARD TO REAL 'ALMOST INEVITABLE'

Chelsea forward Eden Hazard's move to Real Madrid is "almost inevitable", says World Cup Supplement panellist Andy Dunn.
"I find it almost inevitable," the Mirror's chief sports writer told the World Cup Supplement podcast. "Look how one of the best players at this World Cup, Luka Modric, has developed since he went to Real Madrid.
"He was a great player when he was with Spurs but he's a class above that now because he's playing with the best players in the world in a team that dominates the Champions League.
"Why wouldn't Eden Hazard want to play for Real Madrid? Now there is an opening with Cristiano Ronaldo leaving and he's quite right that he's had six years at Chelsea where he's been excellent."
06:14

GOOD MORNING!

And welcome to Sky Sports' live Transfer Centre, bringing you all of the news and rumours from the market on Monday, July 16.
06:13

TRANSFER HEADLINES

• United sell Blind back to Ajax
  
• Fonte wants PL return
  
• Man City baulk at Kovacic fee
  
• Arsenal continue Ramsey talks
  
• Brighton sign Button from Fulham
  
• Monaco bid for Chelsea target Golovin
  
• Rodwell on trial at Watford
  
• Euro Papers: Blues want Milinkovic-Savic
  
• West Ham confirm Anderson
  
• How good is Jorginho??
  
• Courtois: I could run down deal
  
• Hazard hints at Chelsea exit
  
• Klopp offers Sturridge hope
  
• Transfer Talk: Sarri's targets??
  
• Premier League ins and outs
  
• PL retained/released lists
  

Join the discussion on Discord. I am a bot. Found any errors? Contact /Football Mods

Auto-Refreshing Transfer News Thread from Sky Sports
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20:02

THAT'S ALL FOLKS!

Join us at 7am tomorrow for all of the latest news and rumours from the market. Until then...
19:54

NO OZIL WAGES FOR RAMSEY

Arsenal are keen to tie Aaron Ramseyto a new contract but will not give him the kind of wages that his teammate Mesut Ozil earns, report the Evening Standard.
Ramsey is seeking a significant increase on his current £110,000 weekly wage with Ozil earning £350,000 since signing his new contract last season.
The Welshman's contract expires at the end of the season and Chelsea, Manchester United and Lazio have all been linked with a move for him.
19:19

REAL'S LAST-DITCH HAZARD ATTEMPT?

Real Madrid will make one last attempt to sign Eden Hazard before the Spanish window closes, according to the Daily Mirror.
Real have been linked with the Chelsea star all summer, and with their window closing on August 31, they feel there is still time to do a deal.
Julen Lopetegui's side have not made a major signing this summer.
18:33

RANGERS APPOINT NEW DIRECTOR

Rangers have made Hong Kong-based shareholder Julian Wolhardt a new director of the club.
Wolhardt, a Danish national, bought a 4.5 per cent stake in the club from Mike Ashley in June 2017. His appointment comes 10 days before a general meeting is held at the club over a proposed share issue.
18:16

SOCCER SPECIAL PRICE BOOST

Back Derby, Leeds and MK Dons all to win this evening in Sky Bet’s latest Soccer Special Price Boost- at odds enhanced from 6/1 to 8/1.
Click here to place your bets
18:11

MILLER SIGNS UP

Calvin Miller has today signed a new one-year contract with Celtic, keeping him at the club until 2020.
The 20-year-old left back made four starts for Celtic last season.
17:52

SUPER 6

The £1 million jackpot may have gone at the weekend, but £250,000 is up for grabs as the free-to-play Soccer Saturday Super 6 game returns for the midweek fixtures.
To be in with a chance of scooping the lot, all you have to do is correctly predict six scorelines in the selected Sky Bet Championship matches taking place on Wednesday night.
Entries in by 19:45 BST (22nd August 2018).
Click here to enter
17:23

PJANIC SIGNS NEW JUVE DEAL

Miralem Pjanic has signed a new five-year deal with Juventus.
Pjanic, 28, has helped Juve win the Serie A and Coppa Italia double in both of his seasons at the club, following five years at Roma.
17:00

DUNNE DEAL

Burnley centre-back Jimmy Dunne has joined Hearts on a six-month loan deal, the Scottish Premiership club have announced.
Hearts have been on the lookout for centre half cover following injury to club captain Christophe Berra.
16:35

MARTINA DEBUT?

Defender Cuco Martina could make his Stoke debut as Wigan visit in the Sky Bet Championship on Wednesday.
The Curacao international, signed on a season-long loan from Everton, has been building up his fitness in the U23s side and will be assessed ahead of the game.
16:03

LOPETEGUI WANTS RODRIGO

Real Madrid boss Julen Lopetegui wants Valencia forward Rodrigo Moreno, reports AS.
Lopetegui, whose side sold Cristiano Ronaldo earlier this summer, wants to strengthen his attacking options and believes Rodrigo would be a perfect fit for his squad.
However, senior figures in Madrid are reluctant to bring a new forward to the Bernabeu.
Madrid believe Rodrigo’s €120m buyout clause is excessive and feel €60m would be a fair fee for the Spain international.
15:30

BREAKING NEWS

Leeds United full-back Laurens De Bock has joined Belgian side K. V. Oostende on season-long loan.
The 25 year-old joined Leeds from Club Brugge and went on to make seven appearances for the Whites.
De Bock will spend the rest of the 2018/19 campaign on loan at the Jupiler Pro League side.
https://twitter.com/LUFC/status/1031926402386481152
15:09

‘VAN DIJK WORTH EVERY PENNY’

Virgil van Dijk's price tag is not an issue anymore, says Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who salutes the attributes of his Dutch centre-back.
14:39

BREAKING NEWS

Real Madrid forward Martin Odegaard has joined Vitesse Arnhem on a season-long loan, the European champions have announced.
https://twitter.com/realmadrid/status/1031911782355546112
14:36

RAMSEY ON UNITED RADAR

Manchester United are planning a January move for Aaron Ramsey, reports the Manchester Evening News.
The Wales international’s future is up in the air after entering the final year of his current contract at the Emirates.
Ramsey famously rejected a move to Old Trafford before joining Arsenal from Cardiff in 2008.
14:16

BOLT LOOKING TO LEARN

Eight-time Olympic gold medallist Usain Bolt has teamed up with Central Coast Mariners for pre-season training and admits he has a lot to learn if he is to earn a place in the team.
13:42

MADRID DUO AFTER ALONSO

Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid could be in direct competition to sign Chelsea left-back Marcos Alonso, according to AS.
Alonso has started the season in fine form, scoring and assisting a goal in Chelsea's 3-2 win over Arsenal on Saturday.
Real are seeking reinforcements at left back after allowing Theo Hernandez to join Real Sociedad on loan while Atletico are wary of an approach from PSG for Filipe Luis.
Alonso started his career with Real Madrid before leaving for Bolton Wanderers in search of first-team football back in 2010.
13:36

VILLA TO HIJACK BOLASIE MOVE

Aston Villa are looking to snatch Yannick Bolasie from Middlesbrough's grasp according to Keith Downie.
https://twitter.com/SkySports_Keith/status/1031896906052452352
13:10

JANSSEN UNDERGOES SURGERY

Out-of-favour Tottenham striker Vincent Janssen has undergone minor foot surgery which could scupper the chances of him leaving the club this month.
Janssen spent last season on loan at Fenerbahce and has been linked with a return to Turkey particularly after being stripped of the No.9 shirt at Spurs.
The Dutchman does not feature in Mauricio Pochettino's plans for the coming season.
12:44

SAINTS SEAL HODSON SIGNING

St Mirren have signed Rangers defender Lee Hodson on a season-long loan deal.
The full-back has found himself surplus to requirements under new Rangers boss Steven Gerrard following the signings of Jon Flanagan and Borna Barisic this summer.
12:38

BRUNT RETIRES FROM INTERNATIONAL DUTY

Chris Brunt has announced his retirement from international duty in order to focus on helping West Brom earn promotion back to the Premier League.
"After a period of lengthy consideration I have taken the difficult decision to retire from international football," he said in a statement.
"I have spent a lot of time thinking it over but I feel, at this point in my career, I need my sole football focus to be on helping West Bromwich Albion return to the Premier League."
Brunt made 65 appearances for Northern Ireland after making his debut in 2004 but missed out on participating at Euro 2016 due to a knee injury.
12:34

FORSTER RUNNING OUT OF TIME

Southampton goalkeeper Fraser Forster is running out of time to leave the club before the European transfer window closes, reports the Daily Echo.
Forster has fallen behind Alex McCarthy and Angus Gunn at the pecking order at St Mary's and has been linked with Turkish clubs Fenerbahce and Besiktas this summer.
12:20

NO OZIL WAGES FOR RAMSEY

Arsenal are keen to tie Aaron Ramsey to a new contract but will not give him the kind of wages that his teammate Mesut Ozil earns, report the Evening Standard.
Ramsey is seeking a significant increase on his current £110,000 weekly wage with Ozil earning £350,000 since signing his new contract last season.
The Welshman's contract expires at the end of the season and Chelsea, Manchester United and Lazio have all been linked with a move for him.
12:07

MILLER TO JOIN ST MIRREN?

St Mirren boss Alan Stubbs has refused to rule out a move for Kenny Miller, a day after he left his role as player-manager of Livingston.
St Mirren were interested in signing Miller during the summer, before he joined Livingston. If he was to sign this week, he could make his debut this Saturday... against Livingston.
Stubbs says there have been no discussions thus far, as Miller has “a few things to tie up” at his former club. However he admits Miller could be a target if the circumstances change in the coming days
11:58

BORO AFTER EVERTON DUO

Middlesbrough remain in discussions over deals with Everton over midfield duo Yannick Bolasie and Mo Besic, according to the Northern Echo.
Tony Pulis is keen to get loan deals wrapped up for the pair before Friday's game against West Brom.
11:33

RABIOT IN BARCA LINK

Barcelona have already signed Arthur and Arturo Vidal this summer, but they remain keen on a move for PSG's Adrien Rabiot, according to Mundo Deportivo.
Rabiot's contract with PSG expires next summer and Barcelona think they will be able to get him for a fee worth £45m.
If Rabiot were to join it would raise question marks over Ivan Rakitic's future at Barcelona with the Croatian having been linked to PSG.
11:05

NEVILLE DEFENDS EMERY

Gary Neville has defended Arsenal's new head coach Unai Emery amid criticism over his tactics during his first two Premier League games in charge.
Arsenal have lost both of their games this season against Manchester City and Chelsea but Neville insists that he has seen improvement early on in Emery's reign.
"For me, the idea of what the coach has been trying to work on is there," he said on Monday Night Football. "He is trying to undo quite a lot of the bad habits, to be quite honest with you, that have been going on for the last five or six years, that those players have had in them.
"But the principle is there and that's a big change for me. It's a big step forward and if I were Unai Emery after these first two games against Manchester City and Chelsea I would be taking the positives."
10:55

MORNING WHISPERS

Catch up with the latest in the transfer world with help from our friends at Football Whispers...
https://storify.com/services/proxy/2/F5hKKG1jxDuHAkMwLai29w/https/d2kmm3vx031a1h.cloudfront.net/mmWGJvgSSaBHYE8P16KF_2018-08-21-11-37-25-sky-top-10-graphic.png
10:40

BETIS EYE ZINCHENKO

Real Betis are interested in signing Manchester City's versatile Ukrainian Oleksandr Zinchenko but are waiting for Pep Guardiola's side to allow him to leave, reports ABC de Sevilla.
The Premier League champions may still require his services this season, but Betis are ready to arrange a loan deal should he become available.
The player's agent was in Seville last week to agree personal terms. Zinchenko turned down a permanent move to Wolves earlier in the summer.
10:26

BARCELONA KEEN ON DE JONG

Barcelona are making another attempt to sign Ajax midfielder Frenkie De Jong, according to Sport.
The club have already had one bid rejected, but the 21-year-old could leave this season if Ajax fail to win their Champions League playoff tie against Dynamo Kyiv.
10:07

EVERTON SET LOOKMAN PRICE

Everton are demanding £28m plus add-ons for Ademola Lookman to join RB Leipzig, according to Sky sources.
Sky Sports News reported on Monday that Leipzig had made a fresh £22m offer for the 20-year-old winger after he impressed during a loan spell with the club in the second half of last season.
The German side have remained keen to sign him before their August 31 transfer deadline, with manager Ralf Rangnick stating earlier this summer: "We want him back and he wants to come."
Everton boss Marco Silva has said this summer that he wants to keep the player, that Lookman is the club’s “present and future”, and he was doing everything “to make him happy again”.
RB Leipzig head of recruitment Paul Mitchell - a potential candidate for Manchester United's new technical director role - is thought to be a long-term admirer of Lookman, who joined Everton from Charlton Athletic.
09:57

BASSONG TRAINING WITH QPR

Former Tottenham and Newcastle defender Sebastien Bassong is training with QPR.
The Cameroon international has not played since March 2017 and was released by his last club Norwich in the summer that followed.
The 32-year-old played an hour of QPR’s Under-23 fixture against Nottingham Forest yesterday and is understood to initially be looking to gain fitness.
Rangers are bottom of the Championship having lost their first three league games – the latest a 7-1 defeat at West Brom on Saturday.
09:44

BORDEAUX BEGIN HENRY TALKS

Bordeaux have begun preliminary talks with Thierry Henry’s representatives about the possibility of becoming their next manager, Sky Sports News understands.
The Ligue 1 side suspended current manager Gus Poyet on Friday after he labelled the French club a "disgrace" and the Uruguayan has said he no longer wishes to continue.
Arsene Wenger confirmed that Henry was interested in the job yesterday and said that he has the 'qualities' to be a success.
09:39

BHOYS IN FOR BRUMA

Sky Sports News reported earlier that Celtic are preparing a bid for Aberdeen central defender Scott McKenna but another player on their radar is Dutch defender Jeffrey Bruma.
According to Bild, Wolfsburg are open to selling him this summer for £5m after he was left out of their matchday squad against SV Elversberg at the weekend.
Bruma has been capped 25 times by the Netherlands and lists PSV, Hamburg, Leicester and Chelsea as his former clubs.
09:24

LIVINGSTON SIGN TOGO STAR

Manager-less Livingston have signed Togo international Steve Tevi Lawson.
The 24-year old fullback agreed to join the club at the weekend, before the departure of Kenny Miller.
Lawson has played 6 times for Togo – his most recent club was Neuchatel Xamax in Switzerland.
09:18

BRENTFORD SIGN DASILVA

Brentford have confirmed the signing of Josh Dasilva with the 19-year-old signing a four-year contract.
Dasilva opted to reject a contract offer from Arsenal at the end of his deal and as such Brentford will have to pay the Premier League club a compensation fee.
Phil Giles, Brentford's Co-Director of Football, said: "It is great that Brentford now has a reputation for being able to offer that to the best young players and that they are keen to join us."
https://twitter.com/BrentfordFC/status/1031828470383484929
09:14

CELTIC PREPARING MCKENNA BID

Celtic are preparing to bid for Aberdeen’s £10m-rated defender Scott McKenna, Sky Sports News understands.
The Dons have turned down bids for the 21-year old Scottish international from Hull and Swansea in the last two transfer windows.
Aberdeen are understood to value their centre half at around £10m which is some way off Celtic’s valuation of the player.
Aberdeen maintain their player is not for sale. He is contracted until 2023 having signed two new long-term deals in the past 12 months.
08:53

DENAYER JOINS LYON

Manchester City's Belgium international defender Jason Denayer has joined Ligue 1 club Lyon on a permanent deal.
Denayer joined City in 2013 and spent time on loan at Celtic, Galatasaray (twice) and Sunderland without making a competitive appearance for his parent club.
It is being reported that the fee for Denayer is €10m with a potential €3.5m in add-ons.
08:46

KLOPP: EVERYONE LOVES NABY

Jurgen Klopp has admitted that everyone at Liverpool loves summer signing Naby Keita and that he believes the Guinean midfielder will continue to improve following an impressive display against Crystal Palace.
"He's very shy and not very extroverted but on the pitch you don't see it. He needs to settle a little bit. He's next to Sadio all the time [in training]," Klopp told Monday Night Football.
"Everybody loves Naby but I don't know if he loves us because he doesn't speak a lot. But football-wise you can see the potential is outstanding but we have to give him time."
08:33

BARCA STANDING FIRM OVER RAKITIC

PSG have been linked with a move for Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic but the La Liga club will not sell the Croatian for anything less than his €125m buyout fee, report Marca.
That would likely rule the Ligue 1 champions out of a deal as their hands are tied due to Financial Fair Play regulations following the blockbuster signings of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.
08:24

CHELSEA WANT LOFTUS-CHEEK STAY

Chelsea want to keep Ruben Loftus-Cheek amid interest from clubs in Germany, Spain and France.
Loftus-Cheek has slipped down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge following the summer arrivals of Jorginho and Mateo Kovacic while Ross Barkley has also been picked ahead of him.
After playing for England at the World Cup, Loftus-Cheek was not named in Chelsea's 18-man squad against Arsenal on Saturday and he is said to be considering his options.
08:18

DORTMUND AFTER ALCACER

Borussia Dortmund are keen on a deal to sign Paco Alcacer on loan from Barcelona, reports L'Equipe.
Alcacer is not part of Ernesto Valverde's plans for the coming season and has been linked with Valencia, Real Betis and Alaves.
Dortmund are seeking a replacement for Michy Batshuayi who has joined Valencia on loan.
08:09

FORMER UTD ASSISTANT HITS BACK

Mike Phelan, who was Manchester United's assistant manager when Paul Pogba first left the club in 2012, has replied to Mino Raiola over the agent's comments this morning...
https://twitter.com/Mike_Phelan_1/status/1031808493039308800
08:02

MURRAY THANKFUL FOR PL OPPORTUNITY

Brighton striker Glenn Murray has thanked Chris Hughton for giving him an opportunity in the Premier League and not replacing him with a big-name player as other promoted clubs have done.
"You see with some of the promoted teams this year that they have got rid of some players and have brought some big names in. Thankfully our manager did not do that," Murray said.
"He gave everyone that helped the club to the Premier League an opportunity in the Premier League and I think most of us have taken that opportunity."
07:48

HARPER RETURNS TO MAGPIES

Former goalkeeper Steve Harper has returned to Newcastle to join the club's backroom staff, five years after leaving the club in 2013.
Harper was Newcastle's longest-serving player, first breaking through as an 18-year-old in 1993, and will become their goalkeeping coach with the club's Under-23 and Under-18 sides.
07:24

'300K-A-WEEK' FOR HAZARD'

Chelsea are to offer Eden Hazard a new £300k-per-week deal to ward off Barcelona and Real Madrid interest, according to the Daily Mail.
The newspaper reports the Belgian has held talks with the club over a new contract, but is yet to agree terms with the Blues.
07:16

READING SIGN SIMS

ICYMI last night, Reading have completed the signing of winger Josh Sims from Southampton on a season-long loan deal.
https://twitter.com/ReadingFC/status/1031798053450145792
07:07

NEVILLE'S RAIOLA ADVICE

A swift riposte from Gary Neville to Mino Raiola's comments, after Paul Pogba's agent took aim at fellow pundit - and former Manchster United player - Paul Scholes...
https://twitter.com/GNev2/status/1031799445728505856
07:01

POGBA AGENT TAKES AIM

Paul Pogba's agent Mino Raiola is normally a quiet, reserved man when it comes to publicity - but the Italian isn't showing that this morning on Twitter.
He hasn't aimed his anger at Manchester United per se, but is there some undertone in there?
https://twitter.com/MinoRaiola/status/1031790668304277504
https://twitter.com/MinoRaiola/status/1031791316030644224
06:54

CARRAGHER: VAN DIJK WORTH £75M

Jamie Carragher believes that Virgil Van Dijk's man of the match display against Crystal Palace shows why Liverpool spent £75m to sign him from Southampton in January.
"Tonight is the reason why you spend £75m on Virgil van Dijk," Jamie Carragher said on Monday Night Football following Liverpool's 2-0 win at Selhurst Park.
"There were two or three minutes to go and Liverpool give away a free-kick in a dangerous position. He wins the first header and it goes out for a corner. Then the next one comes in and that is where the breakaway comes, and that's the goal."
06:46

CITY SUFFER BRAVO BLOW

Manchester City were one of five clubs to vote against bringing the transfer deadline forward last summer and they might be lamenting their luck after seeing two players sidelined with injuries.
Following the news that Kevin De Bruyne will be out for up to three months with a knee injury, City have confirmed that No.2 goalkeeper Claudio Bravo has ruptured his Achilles tendon.
City will be unable to sign a replacement for the Chilean until January so young academy graduate Daniel Grimshaw is in line for a promotion to provide backup to Ederson.
06:33

NEVILLE'S PLEA TO WOODWARD

There's more fall-out to Manchester United's defeat at Brighton - with Gary Neville issuing a plea to chief executive Ed Woodward to improve the club's transfer strategy.
"Ed Woodward's job is to deliver profits on and off the pitch," he told Monday Night Football. "Profit on the pitch is performance and trophies - league titles and Champions Leagues.
"The club are delivering off the field, Ed Woodward has done an incredible job in terms of the commercial operation and the way in which the club makes an operating profit, but there is no doubt he should put a footballing structure underneath him that his extremely serious and can go and deliver for him on the pitch."
Read more from him here.
06:30

CARRAGHER EXPECTS MOURINHO EXIT

Jamie Carragher does not think Jose Mourinho will be Manchester United manager next season and suggested he could even leave the club at some point in this campaign.
"I'm not jumping to a knee-jerk reaction because Manchester United lost a game away from home," he told Monday Night Football.
"But after what's happened in the summer, if performances like that continue, I don't think Jose Mourinho will be the manager of Manchester United next season - he may not be manager at some time this season.
"There will be coaches up and down the country looking at what Mourinho said in the summer about bringing players in, a centre-back. [Of the four they have] Jose has spent £30m on two of them and two are England internationals in Phil Jones and Chris Smalling."
06:22

TRANSFER HEADLINES

• Raiola ignites Scholes feud
  
• Carragher expects Mourinho exit
  
• Neville: United needed new CB
  
• Bordeaux open Henry talks
  
• Denayer joins Lyon from City
  
• Villa hijack Boro's Bolasie bid
  
• Celtic prepare McKenna bid
  
• Leipzig make £22m Lookman bid
  
• Hazard coy over future plans
  
• Pep rules out Marchisio move
  
• Papers: Blues to offer Hazard £300k deal
  
• Euro papers: Modric's big admission
  
• Benitez: No more outgoings
  
• Which PL stars could still leave??
  
• Transfer talk: Raiola to push Pogba out??
  
• EFL clubs can seal loans to Aug 31
  
• European deadline Aug 31
  
• New football season offer
  

06:21

MOURINHO HAS UNITED BACKING

There has been plenty of speculation over Jose Mourinho's future at Manchester United, particularly after their 3-2 defeat to Brighton with Zinedine Zidane rumoured to be a potential replacement.
However, a senior source at the club told The Guardian: "Why would we discuss Zidane when there is no job?"
06:13

IN THE NEWS

• Aaron Ramsey's Arsenal career is on the line after Unai Emery dropped the midfielder at Chelsea. (Mail)
  
• Manchester United have given their backing to Jose Mourinho and insisted they have not sounded out Zinedine Zidane about taking over at Old Trafford. (Times)
  
• Chelsea are to offer Eden Hazard a new £300k-per-week deal to ward off Barcelona and Real Madrid interest. (Mail)
  
• Ruben Loftus-Cheek is eyeing a loan transfer to Spain after barely being used in Chelsea's first two games but Maurizio Sarri wants him to stay and fight for his place. (Mirror)
  
• Jose Mourinho's plea to Ed Woodward that Manchester United should sell Anthony Martial before Europe's transfer window closes is set to be ignored. (Star)
  

06:07

A LATE ONE FROM LAST NIGHT

In pretty much the dead of night last night it was confirmed Mario Balotelli would be staying at Nice, despite various links with other clubs.
Balotelli even failed to report back for pre-season training initially, but Nice's twitter account has now confirmed the Italian forward will remain with them this season.
"The Italian international expressed his wishes to the directors," they said. "There will be a third season for the forward. The agreement was signed by all parties on Monday evening.
"Suspended for the first 3 games of Ligue 1, the Gym's forward, who has scored 43 goals since arriving at the club, will be available for selection next week, ready for the trip to Lyon.
06:02

GOOD MORNING!

Welcome back to the Transfer Blog, early risers. Let's have a quick look at the big stories doing the rounds today...
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