Premier League Transfer Rumors: Liverpool Target Hato, Arsenal Weighing Moves Amidst Summer Spending Spree

The transfer window is now open, and the rumor mill is in full swing. Here's a look at what's being discussed across Europe.

Every week until September, we'll provide updates and insights on the most significant transfer news and potential deals.

Liverpool's Defensive Reinforcements

Liverpool had an active start in the transfer window, spending £170 million. However, further moves are expected, especially with academy player Jarell Quansah potentially joining Bayer Leverkusen, highlighting the need for defensive reinforcements.

Crystal Palace center-back Marc Guéhi is a leading candidate to replace Quansah. The England international aligns with Liverpool's criteria: he's 24, homegrown, and has extensive domestic and international experience.

With only a year left on his contract, Guéhi could be available for a reasonable fee. The main challenge for Arne Slot is offering him the guaranteed playing time he needs before the 2026 World Cup.

Jorrel Hato, the Ajax defender, is another player linked with Liverpool. The 19-year-old, capable of playing at center-back and left-back, is attracting attention from top European clubs.

However, Ajax doesn't need to sell and wants to keep Hato for another season. Also, Liverpool has already strengthened at left-back by signing Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth for £40m. This suggests they might focus on a more specialized center-back.

Potential Anfield Exits

Despite their proactive approach, Liverpool will likely pause to assess their squad before making further additions. Future business will depend on player departures.

Darwin Núñez is expected to leave this summer, with Napoli aggressively pursuing his signature. If he departs, Liverpool will seek a new No. 9 but only if the right target is available. They were priced out of a £150m move for Newcastle United's Alexander Isak.

Harvey Elliott might also move on, expressing his desire for regular playing time. Having started only two Premier League games last season, Elliott, 22, showcased his talent in the European Under-21 Championship, attracting interest from clubs like Brighton & Hove Albion.

Arsenal's Impending Signings

Arsenal is expected to announce the £5m signing of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea soon. The £51m arrival of midfielder Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad is also imminent. Talks with Brentford for Christian Nørgaard have progressed, with a deal worth up to £15m close. The club has also been searching for center-back options.

Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia is now their preferred target, with negotiations ongoing.

There's ongoing interest in Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, but a conclusion is distant.

The main need for the squad is still at center forward. The valuations of their top targets, Benjamin Sesko at RB Leipzig and Viktor Gyökeres of Sporting CP, remain a significant obstacle. Leipzig values Sesko at around £70m and is awaiting an official bid from Arsenal.

Tottenham's Eze Pursuit

Tottenham Hotspur aims to make Crystal Palace forward Eberechi Eze their statement signing this summer. However, securing him could cost as much as £70m.

With Son Heung-Min potentially leaving despite a recent contract extension, Tottenham sees Eze as the ideal replacement for their captain. However, Eze isn't actively seeking a move after helping Palace win the FA Cup. A significant offer is needed to persuade both the player and Palace.

Arsenal is also interested in Eze, but Tottenham's pursuit is more advanced, and a £65m-£70m offer could trigger a move.

Araújo's Release Clause

Barcelona defender Ronald Araújo has a €65m release clause that becomes active on July 1. This makes him a player to watch. While Barcelona's sporting director Deco insists Araújo is not for sale, he admits the club has an "overbooking" in central defense.

Juventus and Bayern Munich have been linked with Araújo. While Bayern have already signed Jonathan Tah, Premier League interest remains a possibility. While he's expected to stay, nothing is entirely ruled out.

Monaco's Recruitment Strategy

Monaco's recent signings, including Paul Pogba and Ansu Fati, are viewed with both optimism and skepticism. Pogba's leadership and experience, and Fati's potential for career revitalization, could make Monaco formidable.

However, these signings are also significant risks. Pogba hasn't played in over two years due to a doping ban, and Fati struggled at Brighton. Their return to peak performance and fitness remains uncertain.

Jonathan David's Future

Jonathan David's future remains unresolved as of June 27, despite attracting interest from numerous European clubs. Juventus is interested, but there haven't been any concrete offers. Atlético Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Everton are also monitoring the situation. Tottenham has scouted David but isn't currently interested in signing him during this window.

Juventus is in discussions with David's representatives, while clubs in Turkey and Saudi Arabia are also interested.

Other Potential Deals

• Napoli is expected to reject Al Hilal's advances for Scott McTominay, who was outstanding last season.
• Manchester City turned down a €6.5m bid from Hoffenheim for Callum Doyle. They expect offers for James McAtee, potentially exceeding £20m.
• AC Milan will contact Club Brugge with an offer for Ardon Jashari.
• Atlético Madrid is focusing on Johnny Cardoso and Matteo Ruggeri and plans new talks for Álex Baena.
• Napoli reached a verbal agreement with PSV Eindhoven to sign Noa Lang.
• Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini is being tracked by several Premier League teams, including Newcastle.
• Galatasaray wants Sacha Boey, who may be open to a return from Bayern Munich.
• Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Fulham, Fenerbahce, and Burnley are interested in FC Porto winger Pepê.
• São Paulo might let Damián Bobadilla leave.
• Luka Jovic's move to Cruz Azul is stalled.