The summer transfer window is developing into an interesting one even though much of the football world’s attention remains fixed on the World Cup.
Clubs are quietly working away on major deals behind the scenes as the World Cup reaches the business end and league games in Europe near.
For most sides, summer planning is already complete, with managers, sporting directors and recruitment staff having identified key targets to sign and players they intend to sell.
Arsenal Eye Tzolis To Replace Trossard
Arsenal remain interested in Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis, with one source telling Sky Sports News he is among the club’s primary targets to replace Leandro Trossard.
There is said to be long-standing admiration for the player within Arsenal’s recruitment setup.
While the conditions of a potential deal have reportedly been explored, no direct club-to-club contact has yet taken place.
Club Brugge are believed to be holding out for around £34m for Tzolis – a fee that would set a new Belgian Pro League record.
Trossard, meanwhile, is set to complete his transfer to Besiktas in Turkey in a deal worth £17m.
Arsenal have also been linked with Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers as another attacking option, but Tzolis is Trossard’s direct replacement.
Gyökeres Included In Alvarez Package
Arsenal are reportedly open to including Viktor Gyökeres as part of their offer to sign Julian Alvarez, with the Argentina international remaining the Gunners’ priority attacking target this summer.
Atletico Madrid are said to be valuing Alvarez in excess of €100m.
Barcelona Weigh Up Romero Move
Elsewhere, Barcelona are considering a move for Cristian Romero.
The 28-year-old, currently at the World Cup with Argentina, is understood to be looking to leave Tottenham Hotspur this summer, with Barca among the clubs monitoring his situation.
Juventus Chase Balogun
Juventus are also showing interest in Folarin Balogun this summer. The 25-year-old United States international has been linked with Chelsea, PSG and Tottenham, but Juventus are considered the club most likely to submit a formal bid.
Monaco are said to value Balogun at around €50m.
