Latest transfer news today: Chelsea favourites to sign World Cup wonderkid as Man Utd get Tchouameni boost

As the clock continues to tick down to the 2026/27 season, many of the Premier League's elite are ramping up their squad plans and, as ever, the transfer rumour mill keeps spinning.

With that in mind, Football Whispers rounds up standout stories dominating today’s backpages.

Arsenal offered bargain William Saliba replacement

Arsenal are expected to dip into the centre-back market after William Saliba’s injury setback, and they may have been handed a cost-effective solution.

Reports indicate the Gunners have been offered Sporting CP and Belgium defender Zeno Debast through intermediaries.

The 22-year-old fits the profile Mikel Arteta is seeking – a player capable of covering for Saliba immediately while developing into a dependable long-term option.

Debast is believed to be available for around £34 million, almost half of Aston Villa’s asking price for Ezri Konsa, positioning him as a far more affordable alternative.

Man Utd handed Aurelien Tchouameni boost

Manchester United and their pursuit of a third midfield signing this summer appears to have received a significant lift.

The Sun reports that Real Madrid are now ‘open' to selling Aurelien Tchouameni to United as they look to raise funds for a move for Rodri.

United have repeatedly enquired about the France international, viewing him as the ideal specialist anchor to complete their midfield overhaul under Michael Carrick.

Any deal is expected to cost around £68 million, even though the 22-year-old is said to have verbally agreed a new contract at the Bernabeu.

Chelsea favourites to land Kerim Alajbegovic

Chelsea are showing no signs of slowing down in backing new boss Xabi Alonso, and he may be about to raid his former club.

According to reports, the Blues are the frontrunners in the race to sign Bosnia's 2026 World Cup sensation Kerim Alajbegovic from Bayer Leverkusen.

The 18-year-old, regarded as one of Europe’s most exciting young attacking midfielders, announced himself on the world stage with a stunning goal against Qatar last month.

Leverkusen only recently activated Alabegovic’s £3.5 million buy-back clause from RB Salzburg, but are now expected to sell him to Chelsea for around £30 million.