European Transfer Buzz: Newcastle Target Scalvini, Arsenal Set Gyokeres Deadline, And Barcelona Eye Diaz.
Newcastle United have pinpointed Italy’s Giorgio Scalvini as their top defensive target this transfer window. The 21-year-old Atalanta centre-back, valued at around £30 million, is seen as a key addition to bolster the Magpies’ backline, with manager Eddie Howe keen to secure the promising defender’s signature.
Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has issued a tight deadline of less than two weeks to finalise a deal for Sporting’s 27-year-old Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres. Should negotiations falter, the Gunners have identified RB Leipzig’s 22-year-old Slovenian forward Benjamin Sesko and Aston Villa’s 29-year-old England international Ollie Watkins as alternative options to strengthen their attack.
Across Europe, Barcelona are preparing a renewed push for Liverpool’s 28-year-old Colombian winger Luis Diaz. The Spanish giants have turned their attention to Diaz after their primary target, 22-year-old Spain winger Nico Williams, signed a new contract with Athletic Bilbao. Should their pursuit of Diaz stall, Barcelona have Manchester United’s 27-year-old England forward Marcus Rashford lined up as a contingency option.
In other transfer news, Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, aged 35, is set to extend his stay with Barcelona. Having come out of retirement to join the Spanish champions last season, Szczęsny is poised to sign a new two-year contract, solidifying his role at the Camp Nou.
Everton have secured a new one-year contract for their 35-year-old Senegal midfielder Idrissa Gueye, whose previous deal expired earlier this week. The agreement includes an option for an additional year, ensuring the experienced midfielder remains a key part of Sean Dyche’s squad.
Tottenham are among the clubs monitoring Genoa’s 23-year-old Belgian centre-back Koni de Winter, who is valued at £21.5 million by the Italian side. Spurs face competition but are keen to reinforce their defensive options with the versatile youngster.
Elsewhere, Napoli are contemplating a move for Fiorentina’s 25-year-old Italy striker Moise Kean, whose £45 million release clause expires on 15 July. The Serie A side could rival Manchester United and Saudi Pro League club Al-Qadsiah for the forward’s signature.
In the Premier League, Burnley and Crystal Palace are tracking Napoli’s 25-year-old Swedish midfielder Jens Cajuste, who impressed on loan at Ipswich Town last season. Crystal Palace have also made an offer for Ajax’s 27-year-old Croatian left-back Borna Sosa, as manager Oliver Glasner looks to add depth to his squad.
Finally, Inter Miami are in ongoing discussions with 38-year-old Argentina legend Lionel Messi to extend his contract, which is due to expire at the end of 2025. The MLS side are eager to keep the World Cup winner as they continue to build their project around the iconic forward.
