Latest transfer news today: Leeds ‘ready’ to smash record fee as Chelsea told to pay £60m for Spain star

With the 2026 World Cup about to kick off, the transfer market is refusing to slow down, and clubs are scrambling to get business done before the chaos begins.

Mexico vs South Africa is set to begin a six-week adventure in North America later this evening, but it is the Premier League rumour mill that continues to dominate headlines.

Football Whispers takes a look at the top stories of the day.

Arsenal handed boost over long-term target Nico Williams

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has been handed a major boost in his pursuit of Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, a long‑term target since 2024.

According to fresh reports, the Spain international is now open to considering his future despite signing a ten‑year deal last summer to fend off Barcelona interest.

That development has alerted the title‑winning Gunners boss, who wants left‑side reinforcements to push Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard next season.

However, Williams will not come cheap, with the LaLiga club expected to demand more than £80 million – a fee that could rise with a strong World Cup campaign.

Chelsea now learn Dani Olmo asking price

Meanwhile, new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has plenty to address as he looks to revive the club’s fortunes next season after missing out on European qualification.

The Spaniard has now learned the asking price for one of his reported targets, with Barcelona willing to let Dani Olmo leave for £60 million, per reports from Spain.

Chelsea face competition from Premier League rivals Arsenal and hold no clear advantage in the race for the 28‑year‑old’s signature.

One positive for the Blues is the suggestion that the LaLiga champions are already searching for replacements, hinting they may be prepared to part with Olmo this summer.

Leeds prepared to smash records to sign Ousmane Diomande

Leeds United enjoyed a solid first season back in the Premier League, finishing above Tottenham Hotspur in 14th without ever truly flirting with relegation.

That momentum has clearly carried into the transfer window, with Portuguese reports suggesting the Whites are ‘ready' to smash their transfer record to sign Ousmane Diomande this summer.

The 22‑year‑old centre‑back has long been linked with Liverpool and Manchester United, but it is the Yorkshire club who now appear to be pushing hardest for his signature.

Despite a £69 million release clause, Sporting CP are believed to be open to offers around £43 million – a fee Leeds are willing to meet, surpassing the £36 million spent on Georginio Rutter in 2023.