Premier League transfer news and rumours
Mbappe turned down Arsenal and Wenger
The 19-year-old striker, who scored four goals for France at the World Cup in Russia, said he was in contact with then-Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger about a potential transfer last year. However, the Gunners boss had to admit defeat as PSG secured the teenager’s signature.
The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
In an interview with France Football magazine, Mbappe spoke of his admiration for Wenger. He said: “He is a real French football monument. I have not seen many people in this world being viewed in such a unanimous way.
“When the entirety of Europe gets on its knees in front of him to celebrate him, that certainly means something.
“A little while ago, before I signed for PSG, we were in contact in 2017. I chose a different direction but he wasn’t annoyed at me. He was a gentleman about it and wished me good luck.”
Juve discuss bid for Pogba
Another French World Cup star who is making the headlines today is Paul Pogba. The midfielder’s Manchester United future and relationship with boss Jose Mourinho is a major talking point in the transfer gossip columns. The Sun and The Guardian report that Pogba’s former club Juventus have discussed making a bid for the 25-year-old.
Hazard offered deal
Chelsea have offered Eden Hazard a new contract worth £300,000 a week. The Belgian playmaker has been linked with Real Madrid and Blues boss Maurizio Sarri says the ball is now in Hazard’s court on whether he signs. Sarri said: “It’s up to him. The club is available to sign a new contract immediately but it’s up to him if he wants to renew.” (Daily Mail)
Welbeck to leave Arsenal
Danny Welbeck looks likely to have played his last game for Arsenal. The England striker suffered a bad ankle injury last month and is set for a long spell on the sidelines. Welbeck can leave on a free transfer when his current Arsenal contract expires at the end of the season. The Gunners are not set to offer the 28-year-old a new deal. (Sky Sports)
Fabinho happy at Anfield
Liverpool midfielder Fabinho is happy at the club despite speculation that Paris Saint-Germain are interested in signing him. The Brazilian, who joined Liverpool from Monaco in the summer, told UOL Esporte: “I was told there was something in the press, but I never said I’d like to leave Liverpool. I knew I would need to have patience to wait for my moment. I’m happy at Liverpool. There is no reason for me to leave.”
Clubs eye Pavard
VfB Stuttgart defender Benjamin Pavard is a target for a number of European clubs. The French defender, 22, is wanted by Liverpool, Tottenham, Napoli and Bayern Munich. (Calciomercato)
Chelsea want Suarez
Barcelona midfielder Denis Suarez is wanted by Chelsea and Italian side AC Milan. The 24-year-old spent two seasons with Manchester City as a teenager and could be available for £45m. (Daily Mail)