Transfer News LIVE updates: Rakitic to Liverpool claim, Man Utd, Chelsea, Arsenal latest

Transfer news LIVE updates: Follow below for the latest gossip and breaking news

Wednesday August 16

Liverpool and Everton in Yazici scouting mission

05:40: Liverpool and Everton are interested in signing Trabzonspor midfielder Yusuf Yazici. 

Yazici, 20, is one of Turkey’s brightest young talents and made an instant impact for Trabzonspor last season.

And his qualities have not gone unnoticed with Liverpool and Everton apparently interested in bringing him to the Premier League. 

Turkish-Football claim the Merseyside rivals have stepped up their efforts to sign him after sending scouts to watch him in action in Trabzonspor’s 2-1 win over Konyaspor. 

However, they will face a battle to sign him with club chairman Muharrem Usta making it clear that they have no intention of selling him this summer.  

Perisic boost

04.20: Manchester United could still sign Ivan Perisic from Inter Milan, but time is running out.

That's according to Italian outlet Calciomercato who claim Inter would still be willing to consider selling Perisic if United met their £48million valuation.

Perisic is reportedly close to signing a new deal with the Serie A club but was understood to be keen on a move to Old Trafford earlier in the summer.

Usain Bolt offered trial by Burton Albion

03:00: Usain Bolt has been offered a trial by Championship side Burton Albion following his retirement from sprinting. 

Bolt, 30, wants to become a professional footballer after hanging up his running spikes. 

And his dream could become a reality with Burton chairman Ben Robinson willing to offer him a trial at the club should he be interested. 

Robinson, 71, told The Sun: “I’m sure we would (offer a trial) and that the manager would. He’s quick, if nothing else!

“He’s done great for his sport athletics and if you look at Adam Gemili who was in the 4x100m relay he played football when he was younger.

“We would be very interested, obviously.

“I’m sure the manager would give him a trial. He’s done a tremendous amount for his sport.

“If he can apply the same amount of enthusiasm and dedication to soccer then who knows what might lie ahead?

“The standard is very high (in the Championship) and obviously he would need a level of talent to get his place in the team.”

Chelsea still want Andrea Belotti

01:30: Chelsea are not giving up on trying to sign Torino striker Andrea Belotti. 

The Italy international has been constantly linked with a move to Stamford Bridge throughout this summer. 

Antonio Conte has already signed Alvaro Morata from Real Madrid for £70million to replace AWOL striker Diego Costa. 

However, The Daily Star claim the Blues boss wants to bolster his strike force even further with doubts remaining over Michy Batshuayi. 

But they will face a battle to sign Belotti with Torino playing hardball over his £80m transfer fee. 

Ian Wright slams Diego Costa

00:30: Ian Wright has slammed Diego Costa’s behaviour at Chelsea.

Diego Costa last played for Chelsea in their 2-1 FA Cup Final defeat to Arsenal at Wembley back in May.

Costa has been heavily linked with a return to Atletico Madrid, although they can’t sign players until January, as they are serving a transfer ban.

And Wright is furious about the whole saga.

“What should be happening is that he should be back at Chelsea training,” Wright said on Sky Sports.

“In your contract, you should be fit and ready if selected."

Tuesday August 15

Jack Wilshere to Aston Villa?

23:00: Aston Villa are interested in signing Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere. 

The 25-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away from Arsenal this summer with just one year remaining on his current contract. 

West Ham, Newcastle, Swansea, and Italian side Sampdoria have reportedly expressed an interest in the England international. 

But The Daily Mirror claim Aston Villa has entered the race with Steve Bruce keen to bring in another marquee signing following the arrival of John Terry. 

It is said he is willing to offer him a big contract and bonuses in the hope of luring him away from the Emirates. 

However, Wilshere could stay and fight for his place after returning to full fitness for the Gunners against Derby Under 23s on Monday night. 

Ivan Rakitic to Liverpool?

22:00: Ivan Rakitic is wanted by Liverpool as part of a deal that would see Philippe Coutinho join Barcelona.

Coutinho remains on the Nou Camp giants' radar.

And Spanish outlet Diario Gol claim Jurgen Klopp wants Rakitic in return.

Barcelona could be open to doing business as it would lower the £135m asking price Liverpool are demanding for their No10. 

Sanchez going nowhere

21.40: Arsene Wenger has stressed Alexis Sanchez will not be leaving Arsenal this summer under any circumstances.

When asked if he stands by the fact Sanchez will not be leaving, Wenger told BeIN Sports: “Yeah, of course."

And when questioned about clubs regaining power from their players, the Frenchman insisted it was important they learned to honour their contracts.

“It’s difficult to say power back," the Arsenal boss added.

“I just think… It looks unusual to the media sometimes that clubs want contracts to be respected.

"For me, it looks logical so I am amazed that you are amazed because it looks normal. If I sign a contract, I respect it. 

"Of course if a club releases me it’s normal that I can go somewhere else. I know when I signed for two years at Arsenal, it’s a contract and I have to respect it.”

Barry a Baggie

20.25: Gareth Barry has completed his move from Everton to West Brom.

The 36-year-old former England midfielder, who missed Everton's opening Premier League match of the new season against Stoke because of an ankle problem, has signed for the Baggies on an initial one-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

"I want to come and help the team. That's always been the same for me wherever I have played," Barry said on West Brom's official website. "I want to help the team improve, work hard and hopefully add quality."

Everton land Gylfi

20.20: Gylfi Sigurdsson will undergo a medical at Everton tomorrow after they agreed a £45m fee with Swansea.

The Iceland ace has been on Ronald Koeman's radar for much of the summer and will finally seal his move this week.

Everton have has two bids rejected but have struck an agreement with Swansea worth around £45m.

Liverpool made two bid for Keita

18.15: Liverpool had two bids rejected from RB Leipzig for winger Naby Keita, the club's sporting director Ralf Rangnick.

There were two offers from Liverpool and in between times also a telephone call between the clubs. But not between me and Jurgen Klopp," Rangnick said.

"For us, it was always clear that we would not give Naby Keita. That is why there was no direct contact.

"Every club that has sporting ambitious would have done the same as we did.

"But we must weigh it up. If we let Keita go for €70-80m this year, what more would that bring us compared to the sum we would get next year?"

Begovic: Why I left Chelsea

17:30: Bournemouth goalkeeper Asmir Begovic says he left Chelsea because he missed the buzz of Premier League football.

The 30-year-old stopper joined Eddie Howe’s side for £10million in May having spent the majority of his Stamford Bridge career playing second-fiddle to Thibaut Courtois.

Speaking to the Bournemouth Daily Echo, the goalkeeper said: "I missed the buzz, I missed the competition. I missed competing and everything about it, it’s nice to be back playing.

"There’s nothing like playing Premier League football, week in, week out. That was something I missed and wanted to do again.

"This opportunity is a great one for me and, hopefully, this will be a good season for us."

Van Dijk will sign for Liverpool

17:17: Virgil van Dijk will leave Southampton to join Liverpool this summer, according to ex-Saints star Brett Ormerod.

He said: “I think he’s off to Liverpool if I’m honest. A player who is clearly upset and not giving his all for the club can have a detrimental effect on the squad and Southampton are a team that always have a great team spirit and bond.

“At some point, perhaps there is a temptation to cut their losses and take the substantial profit the move will generate.”

Philippe Coutinho latest 

17:00: Reports in the Catalan press overnight claimed Philippe Coutinho’s transfer to the Nou Camp would be completed within 48 hours.

But Spanish football expert Guillem Balague is adamant that’s not the case and that Liverpool still don’t want to sell.

He tweeted: “1. On Coutinho. No matter what the Catalan press say (48 hours, Liverpool has put a price on him, meetings soon), LFC insist: NOT FOR SALE!

“2. In fact: no meetings planned with FCB, no price has been put on Coutinho, right now LFC do not want to sell.”

Bundesliga expert on Keita to Liverpool

16:48: Bundesliga expert Lee Price says Liverpool are unlikely to sign Naby Keita - despite there already being a contract agreement in place.

“As I’ve been saying all summer, Naby Keita’s agents have met Liverpool and a contract has been agreed,” Price told Express Sport.

“He wants to go there - in so much as he wants to play for someone as big and with as much history as Liverpool - but he’s not actively pushing to leave.

“In fact, Keita sees staying put and playing Champions League football as far from the end of the world - especially as they’re the ones who gave him his chance to shine in the first place. Don’t expect him to chuck in a transfer request and rock the boat as he’s not that kind of player.

“So while there is an agreement between Liverpool and Keita, there is no agreement between Liverpool and Leipzig, and this is - at the minute - where the deal falls down.”

Aurier agrees Spurs deal - claims

16:45: Manchester United and Chelsea look set to miss out on Paris Saint-Germain star Serge Aurier, with reports saying the Ivory Coast international has agreed personal terms with Tottenham.

Manchester United and Chelsea have both been linked with moves for Aurier in recent weeks.

But French newspaper L'Equipe say Aurier has now agreed personal terms with Tottenham.

The report adds Juventus and Inter Milan also want him but Spurs appear to be in pole position to snap him up.

Perez to Deportivo stalls

15.50: Deportivo La Coruna are not willing to increase their £11m offer for Arsenal's Lucas Perez, according to the London Evening Standard.

The report says the Gunners are holding out for £13.4m but the La Liga side will not stretch to meet their demands.

The deal has now stalled and there are no plans for further talks between Deportivo president Tino Fernandez and Arsenal chiefs.

Fernandez admitted last week that attempts to bring Lucas back to Galicia had been “very difficult".

Man Utd chasing Perisic

15:00: Manchester United have not backed down in their pursuit of Inter Milan star Ivan Perisic and will make a fresh attempt to finally sign him.

The Gambling Times claim the Red Devils are still confident they will reach an agreement.

The report suggests Chelsea and Barcelona's sudden interest has prompted United to ensure a deal is pushed over the line and that they don't miss out on the 28-year-old to their rivals.

Both clubs have made contact with Inter to enquire about Perisic's situation.

Firmino on Coutinho

13:49: Roberto Firmino has admitted Philippe Coutinho leaving Liverpool “would be awful”.

"I prefer to not think of this because it would be awful,” Firmino told the Liverpool Echo.

“He's a great player but also a great friend to me.

"It is normal that great teams are interested in his football but my concentration is now on the team.”

Sheyi Ojo to Fulham

13:00: Liverpool youngster Sheyi Ojo is set to join Championship club Fulham on loan.

The 20-year-old has been weighing up his options after receiving offers from a number of clubs, including the likes of Middlesbrough, Derby and Aston Villa but Express Sport understands the winger has opted to move to Craven Cottage.

Who will your Premier League team sign before transfer deadline day?

12:51: The new season may have got off to a breathless start, but there's still plenty more transfer drama to unfold before deadline day.

Gylfi Sigurdsson, Ross Barkley and William Carvalho are among the biggest potential Premier League transfers that could take place.

But who is your team most likely to snap up before the end of the window? Find out here.

Drive Coutinho to the airport

12:42: Jurgen Klopp has been told to “drive Philippe Coutinho the the airport” by Richard Keys.

Writing in his personal blog, Keys said: “I’ve no idea how they've managed to get into such a mess over Coutinho. 

“They can't possibly not have known that he was on Barcelona's shopping list - so why the public surprise now?  The bottom line is they've 'lost' him. If they stick to the stubborn line that he's not going anywhere they keep the individual - but not the player. 

“He'll switch off and the chances are he'll stink the place out. He wants to leave and might never get another chance to join the Catalans. 

“If they don't get him now they'll look elsewhere for Neymar's replacement and Coutinho's chance will have gone. He knows that. 

“If I was Klopp I'd drive him to the airport myself and bank the money. Never mind the tough talk - it's all posturing anyway.”

Barry having West Brom medical

12:30: Everton midfielder Gareth Barry is having a medical at West Brom.

The 36-year-old looks set to link up with Tony Pulis at the Baggies after dropping down the pecking order under Ronald Koeman.

Sky Sports claim his move to West Brom could be completed win the next 24 hours.

Turan to Man Utd?

11:20: Barcelona ace Arda Turan looks set to leave the club and Manchester United are an option.

Spanish publication AS claim Turan's agent Ahmet Bulut is exploring his options and a return to his boyhood club Galatasaray has been mooted.

But Manchester United are also listed as potential suitors with Jose Mourinho a long-term admirer of the 30-year-old.

AS claim Turan has met Mourinho numerous times and the chance to link up this summer is a possibility.

The attacking midfielder's agent also has a close working relationship with Mourinho's representative, Jorge Mendes, with the pair working on deals involving players moving in and out of Turkey in the past.

Barca to land Coutinho and Dembele for £200m

10:38: Barcelona will sign Philippe Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele in a stunning £200million-plus double deal in the next few days.

Barca have £200m burning a hole in their pocket following Neymar’s shock move to Paris Saint-Germain.

And Spanish newspaper Sport say they will follow up their £36.5m signing of Paulinho by completing deals for Liverpool star Coutinho and Borussia Dortmund ace Dembele in the next few days.

Coutinho and Dembele will both cost £91m (€100m) up front with further payments in add-ons being negotiated.

Julan battle

10:26: Le Havre striker Nathael Julan has attracted a host of interest from English clubs this summer.

Julan has enjoyed a stunning start to the season, scoring five goals in his three outings across all competitions.

He came off the bench in two of those matches and has featured for just 130 minutes, also chipping in with two assists.

And Express Sport understand his goalscoring form has caught the attention of Premier League duo Crystal Palace and Stoke.

While Championship outfits Wolves, Middlesbrough and Norwich have also shown an interest in the 21-year-old forward.

Roberto eyeing Man Utd or Chelsea

09:55: Sergi Roberto is considering leaving Barcelona with Manchester United and Chelsea both keen to sign him.

Spanish newspaper Sport claim Paulinho's arrival from Guangzhou Evergrande has left Roberto fearing for his place.

He is now set to make a decision on his future this week and Manchester United and Chelsea are both feasible options.

Sport claim United and Chelsea would both be willing to meet his €40million (£36.3m) release clause.

Martial urged to snub Inter

08:55: Anthony Martial should stay and fight for his place at Manchester United and not move to Inter Milan, says Emmanuel Petit.

"Manchester United, they are building a team to play for the title this year," he told SFR Sport.

"They will play the Champions League, he (Martial) will have playing time and the competitions will be long until the end of the year. 

"So going to Inter which is under reconstruction, there are a lot of uncertainties at this level there. 

"It's a risk to take but I think he has the qualities to claim to play more at Manchester United.

"Whether it is on the left side or even in the centre, he has already shown that he has the instinct of a scorer."

Arsenal make Benzema approach

07:55: Arsenal have made contact with Real Madrid over the possibility of signing Karim Benzema.

Spanish publication Don Balon claim Arsenal have made an approach to Madrid officials to see if they would be keen on signing Alexis Sanchez with Benzema moving in the opposite direction.

However, Arsenal's attempts have been knocked back with the European champions insisting Benzema is not for sale.

Zinedine Zidane believes the 29-year-old will be an important part of his plans this season and Madrid are already working on trying to tie him down to a new deal.

ICYMI transfer deadline changing?

07:00: Premier League clubs will discuss proposals to move the transfer deadline to BEFORE the start of the season in future.

The current transfer window closes in England at the end of August, meaning distraction and disruption for clubs once the domestic season starts in earnest.

Transfer sagas involving the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Gylfi Sigurdsson and Ross Barkley have dragged on this summer and could go right up untl deadline day.

But representatives from the 20 Premier League clubs are to attend ­September’s shareholders’ meeting with the majority pushing for a new transfer deadline to be introduced.

It will be proposed that the ­deadline is brought forward to the week before the start of the 2018-19 Premier League season, with almost all of the 20 clubs understood to be behind the idea.

The move would only affect buying players not selling, meaning current deals for the likes of Philippe Coutinho and Diego Costa could still go through.Van Dijk preference

5.40am: Southampton are more likely to sell Virgil van Dijk to Chelsea or Manchester City than Liverpool, according to reports.

The Merseyside club were thought to be the frontrunners to sign Van Dijk, with the defender said to be keen on working with Jurgen Klopp.

But Yahoo Sports claim Southampton are unlikely to sell to Liverpool and will only accept a world record bid for a defender of £70m.

Coutinho must go

5.10am: Liverpool have been told to sell Philippe Coutinho because he was never going to play a leading role at Anfield.

That's according to Liverpool legend Ronnie Whelan who doesn't believe the Brazil international is up there with the best in the world.

“I rate Coutinho as an attacking player but I’ve always had doubts about him as a man to build a team around," Whelan told the Irish Independent.

“Too often I see him drift out of a game and the very best in the business don’t do that.

“He’s not a man to lead or to rally players when the going gets tough and while Barcelona can indulge talent like that, Klopp cannot afford to.

Perez close to Arsenal exit

03.45: Lucas Perez is reportedly edging closer to ending his nightmare year at Arsenal by returning to Deportivo La Coruna for £10.9million.

The 28-year-old started just two Premier League games in his debut season with the Gunners as he struggled to dislodge Alexis Sanchez and Olivier Giroud in the starting line-up.

And the Daily Mail report Perez is closing in on a return to Deportivo, the club he left to join Arsenal 12 months ago.

Ousmane Dembele to Barcelona fee agreed

02:30: Barcelona have reportedly agreed a £90million fee with Borussia Dortmund for Ousmane Dembele.

Barcelona are desperate to fill the void left behind by Neymar, who joined Paris Saint-Germain for a world-record fee of £198million.

Dembele is currently suspended by Dortmund after he skipped training last Thursday in an effort to engineer a move to the Nou Camp.

Spanish paper Sport say the Catalan giants have had a £90m bid accepted by Dortmund, as they are prepared to pay the full amount up front.

The report adds that Dortmund want an extra £27m on top of the transfer fee which is currently being negotiated.

Thierry Henry on Philippe Coutinho

01:15: Philippe Coutinho shouldn’t worry about leaving Liverpool in the lurch, according to Thierry Henry.

Barcelona have been unrelenting in their pursuit of Philippe Coutinho as they seek to find a replacement for Neymar, who joined Paris Saint-Germain in a world-record deal worth £198million.

Reports emerged last night that there could be a change to the transfer window which would see it close earlier next season.

But Henry doesn’t think Coutinho should worry if that were to leave Liverpool unable to find a replacement.

“So Liverpool, as we all think, will lose Coutinho; he leaves you and you can't sign a replacement? They're trying to do the right thing but not in the right way,” Henry said on Sky Sports.

“I don't personally agree with that one."

Monday August 14

Can contract update

11.25pm: Jurgen Klopp admits Emre Can's contract situation at Liverpool is 'not perfect'.

The 23-year-old's deal at Anfield runs out in June next year and Juventus have been monitoring his contract saga.

Klopp is not happy the deal hasn't been agreed, but remains confident Can will sign on the dotted line.

“So far there is no signing and that is the situation,” Klopp said.

“We are still in talks. Do I think it is too cool that we didn’t fix it so far? No, to be honest. But it is all okay at the moment and we have to take it like this.

“I am 100% sure that we don’t sell the player now in this situation. Not a player from the first team line-up for sure.”

Man City plan £60m Sanchez bid

22:46: Manchester City want to sign Alexis Sanchez in a £60m deal, according to the Telegraph.

Arsenal don’t want to sell Sanchez but City believe a deal for the Gunners gem could be done before deadline day.

Sanchez has missed Arsenal’s first two outings of the season and may sit out of Saturday’s trip to Stoke.

he has just 11 months left on his contract.

Karnezis wanted in England

22:13: Premier League trio Watford, Newcastle United and Crystal Palace are in the running to sign goalkeeper Orestis Karnezis, his agent has confirmed.

“Karnezis will play in England for one from Watford, Newcastle United and Crystal Palace,” his agent Vasileios Panagiotakis told Calcionapoli24.it.

“The Napoli option is now definitively off the table.”

Neville on Matic

21:21: Gary Neville has rubbished claims Chelsea manager Antonio Conte wanted to sell Nemanja Matic.

Reaction to the reports that Conte was happy to see Matic leave in a £40m deal to Manchester United, Neville wrote on Twitter: "Bull****".

In a follow up tweet Neville added: "He told me last Wednesday it was a great loss."

Martial not interested in Inter

20:38: Anthony Martial is not interested in joining Inter Milan.

Martial has been linked with a move to Italy.

A switch to Inter was supposedly part of a proposal to bring Ivan Perisic to Manchester United.

That Perisic deal is now off the table but Inter remain keen on Martial.

However, BeIn Sports claim the Frenchman is not keen on a move to the San Siro.

WEST HAM DONE DEAL

20:25: West Ham have sold Sofiane Feghouli to Galatasaray.

In a statement, the Hammers confirmed the permanent switch has today been agreed.

“West Ham United would like to thank Sofiane for his efforts and wish him well in his future career,” the statement read.

Wright advice to Costa

19:24: Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright says Diego Costa should do what Bastian Schweinsteiger did at Manchester United when told by Jose Mourinho he had no future at the club.

“I think it’s disgraceful, the way he’s behaving,” Wright said on 5Live.

“You have to look back at Bastian Schweinsteiger. In respect to the texts and how that happened, of course you want the manager to pull you say ‘listen, I don’t see you in my plans’.

“But the way Bastian Schweinsteiger dealt with it, a World Cup winner, a player of repute. he’s a top, top player.

“I remember when he came on, went through all that rubbish about Mourinho wanting to get rid of him, training with the reserves. He never said a word. He just continued to be a consummate professional.

“I can understand Diego Costa is still irked and wants to leave but surely he’s got to come back here, train and get yourself in a position where if the manager changes his mind you’re there.

“But for him to say ‘I want to go to Atletico Madrid’ - he’s earning a fortune at Chelsea. Can Atletico even afford him? I can’t understand how players get away with that kind of behaviour.”

Klopp refuses to blame window

19:03: Jurgen Klopp has rejected the idea the continuing window is to blame for Liverpool’s current situation.

"It would have helped us this year (if the window shut when the season started)," Klopp said.

"There is a phenomenon and then people go looking for solutions. It makes sense that when the season is starting, planning for the team is over.

"But I also understand that some things take a bit more time. The whole market has changed – the behaviour of people.

"It's good to be with your whole team on the training pitch. The best thing is that the team stays together for four or five years but I know it's quite naive to say such a thing.

"I know the market has changed, it's become very hectic, but we won't take that as an excuse. We have a good team."

Juventus target Arsenal deal

18:40: Juventus are interested in signing Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere, reports in Italy claim.

Wilshere is free to find a new club as Arsenal prepare to lose the England international.

The Gunners player has already been linked with a move to Newcastle in recent days.

But Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport claim Juve could make a move.

Henderson spoke to Coutinho

17:58: Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson also spoke at the press conference in Germany, where the Reds are preparing to face Hoffenheim in the opening leg of their Champions League playoff clash.

Discussing Coutinho, Henderson said: “It’s a difficult situation for Phil.

“Whatever I say probably won't help. As players were are fully focused on the job in hand.

“As players you expect in transfer windows for this to happen. You have to focus on what's important, to stay together. The game tomorrow is the big focus for the team. That's what we will do.

“It shouldn’t have an effect at all.

“We want Phil to stay because he's a world-class player.

“It's a difficult situation but yeah, if you ask anyone in the team of course we want him to stay.”

Coutinho situation unchanged

17:31: Klopp was asked again about Philippe Coutinho is Liverpool’s pre-match press conference.

He said: “I really understand everyone is interested in this but I'm not thinking about it.

“I’m here, answering questions but I'm not thinking about it. I work with the players I have and don't work with the players I don't have.

“It can't change. It's the same situation for me.”

Klopp on Coutinho

16:58: Jurgen Klopp insists “nothing has changed” in Philippe Coutinho’s current situation.

Coutinho has handed in a transfer request at Liverpool and wants to join Barcelona.

He is out of tomorrow’s Champions League qualifier after Hoffenheim with injury.

Asked about the Brazilian’s current situation, Klopp said: “Nothing has changed in the last few days on either side. I'm not sure what you're asking about.

“He's not available for us at the moment. That's the main issue. He cannot play for Liverpool at the moment.

“That's quite a blow for us. We've known for a few days about it do we prepare for this game without  him.”

Deportivo bid

16:28: Deportivo La Coruna have made a £10.9m bid for Arsenal forward Lucas Perez.

Arsenal want to sell Perez and Newcastle are interested in taking on the striker.

He is keen to return to Spain after just one unsuccessful year in the Premier League.

And Sky Sports claim Deportivo are hopeful an agreement can be reached.

Fabinho transfer demand

15:48: Manchester United target Fabinho has reiterated his determination to quit Monaco.

Fabinho is a right-back target for United manager Jose Mourinho, who is keen to strengthen that position.

And the player says he is keen to leave Monaco.

"I feel good, there is nothing to say about my situation, the club knows my will," he said after Monaco's 4-1 win over Dijon.

"I hope we will continue this way and that Monaco will still be okay."

Southampton takeover

15:34: A glance away from the transfer machine for a moment - Southampton have sold an 80 per cent stake in the club for £210m to Chinese businessman Gao Jisheng.

"Following extensive and fruitful work, we are entering into a partnership with the Gao family and I am excited about what we will achieve together,” said Southampton owner Katharina Liebherr.

"Today is the start of a new and exciting chapter for our club.”

Gao said: ”I am honoured and humbled to become a partner of Southampton Football Club alongside Katharina Liebherr, who, together with her father, has been such a great steward of the club, its growth and success.”

Hammers in talks to sign Carvalho

14:45: West Ham are in advanced talks to sign Sporting Lisbon midfielder William Carvalho.

The Portuguese midfielder has NOT been included in the club’s squad for tomorrow's first-leg Champions League qualifier against Steaua Bucharest.

And Sky Sports claim that’s because he’s on the verge of joining West Ham in a deal worth £40million included performance-related add-ons.

Giroud wasted on the bench - Redknapp

14:30: Olivier Giroud’s talents will go to waste if he is kept on the bench at Arsenal, according to Jamie Redknapp.

"It was interesting to see Olivier [Giroud] look down his nose at suggestions he is a supersub after his winner for Arsenal," Redknapp told the Daily Mail.

"Giroud is too good to be an impact man from the bench. He is behind Alexandre Lacazette and Alexis Sanchez and Arsene Wenger has a job on his hands to keep all his strikers happy. Giroud can remain a supersub but it's a waste of his talents."

Liverpool eye Jean Michael Seri

14:15: Liverpool are looking to sign Nice midfielder Jean Michael Seri, reports claim.

According to Guardian journalist Ed Aarons, Jurgen Klopp’s side have joined a number of European heavyweights interested in the Ivorian talent.

Seri, 26, is believed to have a £36.5million release clause in his contract, which is due to expire in June 2019.

Wilshere odds slashed

13:50: Newcastle have seen their odds slashed by the bookies to sign Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere.

Wilshere looks on his way out of Arsenal this summer after Arsene Wenger left the midfielder out of the squad that beat Leicester 4-3 on Friday.

The England international has been linked with a move to newly-promoted Newcastle, whose manager Rafa Benitez is desperate for new recruits.

And followings reports Newcastle are set to step up their interest, bookmakers Betfair have slashed their odds of signing Wilshere from 7/1 to 3/1.

Premier League rivals West Ham are also said to be interested in landing the 25-year-old, with Betfair pricing the Hammers as evens favourites for his signature.

Chelsea confident of signing Ox

13:25: Chelsea are growing increasingly confident they will sign Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from Arsenal for around £35million.

Oxlade-Chamberlain is in the last year of his contract at Arsenal and is considering his future.

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte wants Oxlade-Chamberlain as one of four more signings at Stamford Bridge.

And according to the London Evening Standard, Chelsea have not yet agreed a fee with Arsenal but negotiations are ongoing and the Blues have received enough encouragement to believe a deal is possible.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has ruled out selling Alexis Sanchez and Olivier Giroud before the 11pm deadline on August 31 but has given no guarantees over Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Wenger would prefer to keep the versatile 23-year-old, last week describing him as having the potential to become a “very great player”.

Virgil van Dijk offer

13:00: Chelsea are reportedly planning a move for Virgil van Dijk this week, reports claim.

Antonio Conte is keen to bring in a proven centre-back and Van Dijk is on his radar.

Their need has become more pressing after their shock defeat to Burnley on Saturday.

And according to the Daily Mail, the Blues will make a formal offer.

It is said they are prepared to spend more than £50million to bring him to west London.

Herrera approves of Lacazette but doubts top-four ambitions

12:45: Manchester United star Ander Herrera believes Alexandre Lacazette is a great signing for Arsenal, but isn’t sure he will be able to fire them back into the top four.

Asked about his arrival, Herrera said: “Arsenal will need a reaction after missing out on the Champions League last season and Alexandre Lacazette is a good signing, so let’s see.

“I don’t see many changes in the title race – Chelsea, City, Spurs, Liverpool and us.”

Deal agreed: Barcelona to sign Paulinho

12:25: Barcelona have reached an agreement for former Tottenham midfielder Paulinho.

The Catalan outfit, who lost 3-1 top rivals Real Madrid last night, announced the £36million agreement with Chinese side Guangzhou Evergrande on Twitter.

Paulinho, 29, will undergo a club medical on Thursday before signing his contract and being unveiled to supporters.

Deal close: Toon to sign Joselu

12:00: Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez is edging closer to a deal for Stoke striker Joselu.

Reports claim the player is discussing terms with the Magpies with a view to completing a £5million switch to St James' Park.

Newcastle have been targeting the 27-year-old Spaniard, as well as Arsenal's Lucas Perez, in recent weeks as Benitez attempts to add firepower to his team.

Joselu, a £5.75million signing from Hannover in June 2015, scored only four goals in 27 appearances during his first season at Stoke, and spent the last campaign on loan at Deportivo la Coruna, where he managed six in 24 run-outs.

Keown astonished by Matic sale

11:30: Martin Keown can't believe Chelsea sold Nemanja Matic to Manchester United.

Matic's move to United raised a few eyebrows with Chelsea agreeing to sell to one of their title rivals, and Keown thinks they made a mistake.

"Romelu Lukaku will grab the headlines with his two goals but we must not overlook the importance of Nemanja Matic to Manchester United's victory," he told the Daily Mail.

"That was the best midfield performance of the Premier League's opening weekend — has there been a better debut from a left-footed midfield player at Old Trafford since Bryan Robson in 1981?

"It is astonishing that Chelsea let him go. As he showed on Saturday, he has strengthened their rivals."

Chelsea to increase Drinkwater bid

11:00: Chelsea will increase their bid for Danny Drinkwater to £25million within the next 24 hours.

Chelsea are keen on signing Leicester star Drinkwater as they try to keep manager Antonio Conte happy.

The champions had a terrible start to the title defence on Saturday as they crashed 3-2 at home to Burnley and had two men sent off. 

Blues boss Conte has repeatedly insisted he needs more players and has been promised three more by owner Roman Abramovich before the deadline on August 31.

And Express Sport understands Chelsea will up their offer to Leicester for 27-year-old Drinkwater to £25m in the next day.

The Foxes have already rejected a £15m bid from Chelsea, who sold Nemanja Matic to Manchester United for £40m earlier this summer.

Rose won’t be sold

10:45: Danny Rose will not be sold despite his public criticism of Tottenham.

Rose stunned Spurs by giving an interview to a national newspaper last week where he hit out at the club.

The 27-year-old suggested among other things that he could be ready to quit Tottenham, insisting he will return home to the north at some point in his career. 

Rose has been linked with Manchester United and Chelsea but neither club have yet made an offer.

And the Daily Mail claim Tottenham will not sell Rose during the summer transfer window.

The window slams shut at 11pm on August 31, giving the former Leeds man just over two weeks if he does want to seal a move.

Matic sale was astonishing- Keown

10:30: Martin Keown can't believe Chelsea sold Nemanja Matic to Manchester United.

Matic's move to United raised a few eyebrows with Chelsea agreeing to sell to one of their title rivals, and Keown thinks they made a mistake.

"Romelu Lukaku will grab the headlines with his two goals but we must not overlook the importance of Nemanja Matic to Manchester United's victory," he told the Daily Mail.

"That was the best midfield performance of the Premier League's opening weekend — has there been a better debut from a left-footed midfield player at Old Trafford since Bryan Robson in 1981?

"It is astonishing that Chelsea let him go. As he showed on Saturday, he has strengthened their rivals."

Giroud would speak to Dortmund

10:15: Olivier Giroud is prepared to speak with Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund, reports claim.

According to French website Le 10 Sport, Dortmund searching for a new striker amid speculation that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Ousmane Dembele will leave the club.

And Giroud, 30, is on their shortlist.

The report claims Giroud is willing to speak with Dortmund representatives should they firm up their interest.

Second Martial bid - claim

10:00: Tottenham are planning a second approach for Manchester United star Anthony Martial.

French broadcaster RMC Sport claimed that United had rejected Spurs’ initial bid over the weekend.

But fresh reports claim a second bid is in the pipeline.

TMW suggest Martial, 21, is still thinking of leaving Old Trafford and that has encouraged Mauricio Pochettino’s side to follow up their interest.

Mourinho phones Costa

09:15: Chelsea forward Diego Costa has revealed Jose Mourinho contacted him to see how he was following his exile from Stamford Bridge.

Costa has received plenty of sympathy for the way Conte has exiled him, particularly in the way the Italian boss went about letting him know via text that he had no future with the club.

And one manager who did check to see how he was getting on was his former manager Mourinho.

"Jose has called me, direct to my phone, just to check I am OK and to see how I am," Costa told the Daily Mail.

"He wished me good luck. I never had any problems with Jose, we have a strong relationship. Everyone was very sad when things didn't work out in the end for him at Chelsea."

Chelsea eyeing Perisic swoop

08:50: Chelsea are weighing up a move for Inter Milan winger and Manchester United target Ivan Perisic.

Express Sport understands Chelsea are looking to splash around £130m before the window shuts on August 31 with owner Roman Abramovich hoping to keep Conte happy.

And Conte has his eye on Inter star Perisic.

The Italian boss saw first hand what the 28-year-old is all about when he scored against his side in pre-season in Singapore.

The Mirror claim Conte is now considering making a late move for the Croatia international after being impressed by his display.

News of Chelsea's interest in the winger will cause concern among Manchester United's camp though.

Jose Mourinho is also on the lookout for a wide player and United have been in talks with Inter over Perisic for months.

Barkley pay-cut

08:30: Everton midfielder Ross Barkley is ready to accept a significant pay-cut to join Tottenham.

Barkley, 23, has been told he can leave Goodison Park by manager Ronald Koeman after refusing to sign a new £100,000 a-week contract.

And The Sun claim that he’s willing to take a £70,000-a-week deal instead to join Mauricio Pochettino in North London.

Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United were previously linked with the England international, but its Spurs who remain front-runners.

Wilshere in-demand

07:45: Jack Wilshere’s a man in demand as it looks like his Arsenal days are numbered.

The England international, who spent last season on loan at Bournemouth, did not make the Gunners squad on the opening day of the season and could be set for a permanent exit.

It looks like he will have plenty of options to consider, with the Sun claiming Newcastle, West Ham, Crystal Palace and Bournemouth are all interested in the 25-year-old.

Southampton fan's chance Virgil van Dijk meeting

07:00: A Southampton fan has asked Virgil van Dijk about a move to Liverpool after meeting him in a restaurant.

The Saints man revealed all to his fellow supporters while posting under the pseudonym LeBizzier69 on the popular online SaintsWeb forum. 

He went over with his daughter to talk to the player and the pair exchanged smalltalk, it's claimed.

The fan then told Van Dijk he was too good to sign for Liverpool, which was apparently greeted with an icey response.

The fan wrote: "Double V D has just been having dinner with three of his entourage a few tables down from us. Took daughter over to his table after she wrote "don't go" on a knapkin. 

"Seemed nice enough until I said he was too good to go to Liverpool. All went a bit quiet then. That virus cleared up fast."

Diego Costa's explosive Chelsea interview

06:00: Diego Costa has admitted he's not expecting Antonio Conte to change his mind and pave his return to Chelsea.

The Spaniard was informed by Conte in June via text message telling him he wasn't a part of his long-term plans.

And he feels he has been treated like a 'criminal' by the club.

"They want me to be there training with the reserves. I wouldn't be allowed access to the first-team dressing room and I would have no contact at all with the guys," Costa told the Daily Mail.

"I'm not a criminal! I don't think it is fair after all I have done to be treated like that."

Liverpool told to sell Philippe Coutinho

05:00: West Ham midfielder Michail Antonio believes Liverpool should sell Philippe Coutinho because 'his head has been turned'.

Barcelona have had two bids of £72million and £90m for Coutinho rejected by Liverpool but the Brazilian responded to the club's stand by submitting a transfer request.

Express Sport understands Barcelona are ready to pay more than £100m for the Liverpool star and Antonio reckons the Reds have to consider letting Coutinho go before the end of the window.

He told BBC Sport's MOTD2 Extra: "As a player, Barcelona come knocking you go.

"I believe as a player, the club should let him go because his head has been turned."

Antoine Griezmann's Man Utd consideration

04:00: Antoine Griezmann will consider a move to Manchester United if Atletico Madrid sell goalkeeper Jan Oblak.

The French forward was linked with the Red Devils earlier this summer but after the La Liga side received a transfer ban he opted to stay at the club.

But now Spanish outlet Don Balon claim Griezmann could take up an offer to join United or Barcelona if Oblak is sold.

The reports claim the Atletico man is unhappy Diego Costa hasn’t joined yet and does not want the goalkeeper to leave either.

Oblak has been linked with a switch to Paris St-Germain who have already signed Neymar in a record-breaking £200m deal this summer.