With pre‑season underway, several Premier League sides are moving quickly to firm up their squads, sparking fresh negotiations and a few unexpected twists.
Football Whispers takes a look at the biggest stories dominating today's backpages.
Arsenal send scouts to watch Kaua Elias live
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Arsenal may have suffered a major setback in their chase for Vinicius Jr, but it hasn’t derailed their wider summer plans.
Fresh reports indicate the Gunners were among the clubs to send scouts to watch Shakhtar Donetsk forward Kaua Elias this week.
The Brazilian impressed with a ‘perfect’ hat‑trick in a 5–1 pre‑season win, attracting attention not only from the Gunners but also Manchester United.
Elias is also on the radar of AC Milan and Porto, with Shakhtar believed to value the 19‑year‑old at around £30 million.
Sunderland set to win Geny Catamo race
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Sunderland have edged clear in the Premier League battle for Geny Catamo.
That's according to new reports, which suggest the Black Cats are now poised to beat Aston Villa, Everton, Fulham and Brentford to the 25‑year‑old’s signature.
The Sporting CP winger has been one of Regis Le Bris’ priority targets, offering versatility on both flanks and coming off a strong season with 11 goal contributions.
It’s still unclear how much Sunderland are willing to spend, with Catamo holding a £51 million release clause.
Spurs chances of signing Cody Gakpo rated
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Tottenham Hotspur have been one of the biggest‑spending clubs in the summer transfer window so far, and they aren’t slowing down yet.
The north Londoners have splashed out over £300 million on additions and have been linked with a move for Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo.
Despite uncertainty over whether the Reds want to keep the 27‑year‑old, Fabrizo Romano believes there is a “good chance” a move could still happen.
“If a big proposal arrives, and if the player is keen, Liverpool could consider this possibility,” he said, leaving the ball in Spurs’ court.