LONDON: The Premier League transfer deadline is entering its final hours, with Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool and other top-flight clubs racing to complete last-minute deals before the window shuts on Tuesday at 2200 GMT.
With Premier League clubs unable to sign new players until January once the Premier League transfer deadline passes, several teams are preparing for a frantic end to the transfer window.
Manchester City are pushing to complete a major deal for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, while Arsenal are reportedly exploring a huge move for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez.
Manchester City Push for Enzo Fernandez
Manchester City have identified Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez as one of their major targets ahead of the Premier League transfer deadline.
Chelsea are understood to value the Argentina international at around £120 million ($162 million), although City have yet to meet the London club’s asking price.
Fernandez could reunite with former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, who is now managing Manchester City. Maresca is looking to strengthen his midfield following several significant departures, including Rodri’s move to Barcelona.
Bernardo Silva, Nico Gonzalez and Tijjani Reijnders have also left, increasing the need for additional midfield options.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has left Fernandez out of his squad for the club’s previous two matches as speculation surrounding his future continues.
City are also expected to complete a reported £65 million move for Everton midfielder Iliman Ndiaye, despite interest from Tottenham.
Meanwhile, Arsenal could make one of the biggest moves of the Premier League transfer deadline if they can persuade Atletico Madrid to sell Julian Alvarez.
The Argentina forward reportedly prefers Barcelona, but Atletico are reluctant to sell him to their La Liga rivals and could consider an offer of around £128 million from Arsenal.
Alvarez has missed training sessions and was not included in Atletico’s team for their recent win over Sevilla, further fueling speculation about his future.
Liverpool and Tottenham Race to Strengthen Squads
Liverpool have already made a huge statement in the transfer market, completing the signing of France forward Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain for a reported £123 million.
However, the Reds are still searching for another winger as they reshape their attack following Mohamed Salah’s departure.
Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr and Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh are reportedly among Liverpool’s targets.
Further attacking additions could also open the door for Dutch international Cody Gakpo to leave Anfield, with Manchester City and Tottenham reportedly monitoring his situation.
Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott is expected to leave on loan, with Valencia reportedly preparing to take the playmaker after his disappointing spell at Aston Villa.
Tottenham are also active in the final stages of the Premier League transfer deadline.
After missing out on Iliman Ndiaye, Spurs are reportedly considering a loan move for Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk. The club are also interested in Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo, with a potential £7 million deal being discussed.
Chelsea, Aston Villa and Everton Make Late Moves
Chelsea have continued strengthening their squad by signing highly rated 18-year-old Italy defender Honest Ahanor from Atalanta for around £40 million.
Manchester City winger Jack Grealish is also set to return to Everton on loan. The England international spent last season at Everton and impressed before a foot injury ended his campaign in January.
Everton are also close to completing a reported £40 million deal for United States forward Folarin Balogun from Monaco.
Aston Villa have strengthened their attacking options with the signing of Senegal winger Ibrahim Mbaye from Paris Saint-Germain in a deal reportedly worth £47 million.
Mbaye made 31 appearances for PSG last season as the French club won the Champions League and Ligue 1. The 18-year-old also represented Senegal at the recent World Cup and scored against France.
Villa manager Unai Emery subsequently added to his defensive options by signing Southampton centre-back Taylor Harwood-Bellis for approximately £29 million.
Elsewhere, Newcastle striker Nicolas Woltemade is reportedly set to join Juventus on loan.
With the Premier League transfer deadline fast approaching, clubs have only a few hours left to complete their business. Several major deals remain possible, meaning the final hours of the transfer window could bring plenty of drama and significant changes to Premier League squads.
