Arsenal have seen an opening bid for Leicester City winger Jeremy Monga turned down as the summer transfer window heats up. The Gunners are one of several Premier League clubs making moves, with Liverpool reportedly ready to smash the £80m barrier for RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, and Arsenal also eyeing Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola. Here's a roundup of the latest gossip from Friday's papers.
Arsenal's Opening Bid for Monga Rejected
Arsenal have had their first approach for Jeremy Monga knocked back by Leicester City. The 19-year-old England Under-19 international is a long-term target for the Gunners, who view him as a key piece in their post-title rebuilding plans. According to The Telegraph, the bid was deemed insufficient by Leicester, who are reluctant to lose one of their brightest academy graduates. Monga's pace and versatility on the flank have made him one of the most sought-after teenagers in English football, and Arsenal are expected to return with an improved offer.
Liverpool Lining Up £86m Diomande Package
Liverpool are prepared to test RB Leipzig's resolve with a package approaching €100m (£86m) for Yan Diomande. The 19-year-old Ivory Coast international has emerged as one of Europe's most exciting wingers, and the Reds are keen to secure his signature early in the window. The Athletic reports that Liverpool have already triggered the release clause of Osasuna's Victor Munoz and are now turning their attention to further reinforcements, including Diomande, to add depth to their attacking options. The deal would be one of the largest in Liverpool's history, highlighting their ambition to challenge for the title next season.
Barcola Back on Arsenal's Radar
Not content with pursuing Monga, Arsenal are also preparing a bid for Paris Saint-Germain's French winger Bradley Barcola. The 23-year-old is highly rated by Mikel Arteta's recruitment team, and The Independent suggests an offer could be imminent. Barcola's ability to play on either flank and his Champions League experience make him an attractive target as Arsenal look to build on their first Premier League title since 2003/04.
Other Gossip: Real Madrid, Chelsea, and More
Real Madrid Eye Enzo Fernandez
Real Madrid are considering a move for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez as part of their summer rebuild. The 25-year-old Argentine is one of several midfield targets on the Spanish giants' shortlist, according to ESPN.
Leipzig Contact Everton Over Barry
RB Leipzig have made contact with Everton regarding striker Thierno Barry. The 23-year-old France Under-21 international is on the Bundesliga club's list, but no formal bid has yet been lodged, per The Liverpool Echo.
Tottenham in Mix for De Cat
Tottenham are firmly in the race for Anderlecht's teenage midfielder Nathan De Cat, with Manchester United also keen on the 17-year-old, reports Teamtalk.
Liverpool Rekindle Thuram Interest
Liverpool have reignited their long-standing interest in Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram, with Corriere dello Sport suggesting the Reds are exploring a deal.
Key Takeaways
- Arsenal's first bid for Jeremy Monga has been rejected by Leicester, but the Gunners are expected to return with an improved offer.
- Liverpool are ready to offer close to £86m for RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, signaling their intent to spend big this summer.
- Arsenal are also preparing a bid for PSG's Bradley Barcola as they look to strengthen their wide options.
- The transfer market is heating up with Real Madrid, Chelsea, Tottenham, and Everton all involved in potential moves.
- Youth and attacking talent remain the primary focus of Premier League clubs' summer recruitment.
Quick Facts
Player: Jeremy Monga (Leicester City)
Bid: Rejected (Arsenal)
Liverpool Target: Yan Diomande (RB Leipzig) – €100m package
Arsenal Target: Bradley Barcola (Paris Saint-Germain)
Other Key Links: Real Madrid for Enzo Fernandez, RB Leipzig for Thierno Barry, Tottenham for Nathan De Cat
Sources: The Telegraph, The Athletic, The Independent, ESPN, Liverpool Echo, Teamtalk, Corriere dello Sport
