Manchester United are edging closer to completing the signing of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, with negotiations between the two clubs progressing as the transfer window nears its close. United have tabled an offer in the region of £60-65 million plus add-ons for the 22-year-old Cameroon international, though the bid still falls short of Brighton's valuation. Talks are continuing as both parties look to bridge the gap before United's deadline to register new players ahead of their Premier League opener away at newly-promoted Hull City.
United have long admired Baleba, having made an approach for the midfielder roughly a year ago when Brighton reportedly wanted closer to £100 million. That valuation has since dropped following a dip in his form and playing time last season, when his starts fell from 31 to 23 in the Premier League, even as Brighton secured European qualification for only the second time in their history. Manager Michael Carrick will be hoping his new midfielder rediscovers the box-to-box qualities that first attracted United's interest, despite the club already strengthening that area with the arrivals of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.
Elsewhere at Old Trafford, United have rebuffed interest from Galatasaray in captain Bruno Fernandes. The Turkish club reportedly offered a package that would have doubled the 31-year-old's wages, but United have made clear he is not for sale and have instead opened discussions over extending his contract, which currently runs until next summer with an option for a further year.
Manchester City's rebuilding of midfield continues following Rodri's departure to Barcelona in a deal worth £65.4 million, ending his seven-year spell at the Etihad. Speaking about his move, Rodri said: "I'm very happy and excited about this new stage in my career. It's a fresh challenge, a chance to experience new things and feel that excitement again. I've come to a hugely ambitious club that really suits my personality, so I'll try to help in every way I can to achieve our objectives this season." He also sent a message to City supporters, adding: "My heart will always be blue all my life. And they always have Rodri for anything they need." City are now pursuing Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez, though they face a steepened asking price after missing the Blues' deadline for offers, while also closing in on 18-year-old Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi for around £85 million.
Arsenal's pursuit of a new forward remains complicated. Julian Alvarez appears to be edging towards a move to Barcelona rather than the Gunners, with Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone confirming the Argentine will be benched for their LaLiga opener amid the ongoing transfer saga. Atletico's hierarchy have indicated they would not sanction a sale even for €200 million. Arsenal are said to be considering Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz as a cheaper alternative, alongside continued interest in Victor Osimhen.
Liverpool have cooled their interest in PSG teenager Ibrahim Mbaye but remain in the frame for his club-mate Bradley Barcola, who is also a target for Arsenal. PSG are believed to be seeking around £145 million for the winger, though Liverpool are prepared to negotiate patiently rather than meet that valuation immediately.
Among confirmed moves, Aston Villa have completed the signings of full-back Matteo Ruggeri from Atletico Madrid for £21.4 million and goalkeeper Zion Suzuki from Parma for £29.9 million. Benoit Badiashile is also closing in on a season-long loan to Napoli, with an option to buy set at €27 million next summer.
With the window edging towards its close, all of the Premier League's leading clubs are working against the clock to finalise their squads before the new season fully gets underway.
Based on reporting from The Independent, London Standard, and BBC Sport.