Wednesday's newspaper round‑up delivered a flood of transfer headlines, with several high‑profile clubs either confirming interest or dismissing prospects. The most notable story involved Arsenal's promising left‑back Myles Lewis‑Skelly, who found himself at the centre of negotiations that ultimately fell through with two of England's biggest teams.
According to the Daily Telegraph, both Chelsea and Manchester United were approached by an intermediary representing Lewis‑Skelly. The agent’s pitch suggested that the young defender could be a valuable addition to either club’s defensive line‑up. However, after reviewing the proposal, both Premier League giants decided not to pursue the player further. The exact reasons were not disclosed, but sources hinted at concerns over the financial terms and the player's long‑term development plan.
The Athletic added that Lewis‑Skelly is firmly committed to staying at Arsenal for the upcoming season. He has publicly stated his intention to fight for a regular place in Mikel Arteta's first‑team squad.
The 19‑year‑old’s focus on cementing his role at the North London club appears unwavering, despite the external interest. Meanwhile, The Sun reported that Manchester United, while initially open to the idea of signing the Arsenal left‑back, ultimately balked at the valuation placed on him. The club’s scouting department allegedly deemed the price tag too steep for a player who, although highly rated, has yet to establish himself as a consistent starter in the Premier League.
This valuation issue seemed to be the decisive factor in United’s decision to walk away. In other transfer news, the Daily Mail revealed that Newcastle United are monitoring Benfica's right‑back Amar Dedic. The Portuguese full‑back has impressed with his defensive solidity and ability to contribute to attacks, prompting the Magpies to consider a potential bid as they look to bolster their back line.
Fabrizio Romano, the well‑known transfer journalist, confirmed that Aston Villa have reached a verbal agreement with Atletico Madrid for the signing of Matteo Ruggeri. The Italian defender, known for his composure on the ball and tactical awareness, is expected to join the Villa squad pending a medical and the finalisation of personal terms. L'Equipe highlighted Tottenham Hotspur's interest in Folarin Balogun, a forward currently with AS Monaco. Balogun, who previously spent time in Arsenal's academy, has been linked with a move back to north London, though Spurs are the club reportedly monitoring his situation most closely.
His pace, technical skill, and goal‑scoring record in Ligue 1 have attracted attention from several Premier League sides. Everton have identified Kyle Walker as a potential target, according to The Sun. The experienced England right‑back could provide a seasoned option on the flank, especially as the Toffees look to reinforce their defensive options ahead of the next season.
The Daily Mail also reported that Manchester City defender Max Almiron (spelled Max Alleyne in the original source) is set to join Burnley on a season‑long loan. The move is expected to give the young defender valuable first‑team experience in the Championship, while offering Burnley additional depth at the back. In a surprising development, Paul Pogba is poised to leave Monaco by mutual consent.
The Athletic noted that the French midfielder has only made six appearances for the Ligue 1 side this season, and both parties have agreed to terminate his contract early, allowing Pogba to explore new opportunities. Benfica are weighing a potential transfer for Southampton centre‑back Taylor Harwood‑Bellis, as reported by the Daily Mail. The English defender, known for his physical presence and ball‑playing abilities, could be a strategic addition for the Portuguese giants looking to strengthen their defensive core. Hull City, the latest promotion side to the Premier League, appear to be in a strong position to sign Millwall winger Femi Azeez, according to The Sun.
The young attacker’s speed and ability to take on defenders have attracted interest from the newly promoted club, which is keen to add creativity to its attacking options. The Daily Mail also mentioned that Solly March has been training with Crystal Palace ahead of a possible free transfer.
The midfielder, currently out of contract, is using the training sessions to showcase his fitness and readiness for a new challenge. In business news, the Daily Telegraph reported that a consortium led by Jeff Bezos is on the verge of acquiring a £1.5 billion stake in Liverpool. The deal, which could be finalised within the week, would represent one of the most significant financial injections in the club’s recent history and could have far‑reaching implications for its future strategy. Lastly, the Celtic Gazette (Celtic’s local paper) disclosed that the Scottish club will need to meet a valuation of over £8 million to secure the services of Torino midfielder Gvidas Gineitis.
The club’s hierarchy is reportedly preparing a bid, but the price tag remains a hurdle that must be overcome to complete the transfer. Overall, the transfer window continues to generate a steady stream of speculation and confirmed moves, with clubs across Europe balancing ambition, financial prudence, and squad needs as they plan for the upcoming season.