In today’s transfer news round-up, it’s clear that significant negotiations will have to be done if Liverpool are to make their first signing of the summer.
A swap may help Jurgen Klopp get his man while, in Arsenal transfer news, Mikel Arteta has picked between Willian and Philippe Coutinho.
All that and much more in today’s transfer news round-up.
Liverpool face tough negotiations
When it comes to Liverpool’s pursuit of Jamal Lewis, the Reds face a fight at the negotiating table.
Jurgen Klopp has reportedly identified Norwich’s Lewis as one of his top transfer targets this summer but there’s quite a gap between Liverpool’s valuation and that of the Canaries.
Klopp is eager to bring in cover for Andy Robertson and believes Lewis is the ideal candidate. Liverpool are reportedly willing to pay £8 million up front for Lewis, with an additional £2 million coming in add-ons.
However, The Athletic reports that Norwich are prepared to stick to their guns and hold firm on their stance that they will only pick up the phone for opening bids of £20 million.
What could benefit Liverpool in the potential deal is their willingness to offload young defender Yasser Larouci as something of a makeweight.
Norwich have been monitoring Larouci, who could move to Carrow Road in a player-plus-cash arrangement between the clubs.
Arsenal pick Willian over Coutinho
In Arsenal transfer news, the Gunners have reportedly opted to sign Willian this summer rather than Philippe Coutinho.
Arsenal were interested in bringing in both Brazil internationals but decided that Willian was the better fit.
The Mirror reports that Arsenal even rejected the opportunity to bring Coutinho in on loan, with Mikel Arteta more eager to get Willian on board.
Willian’s contract with Chelsea expires this month so he is available on a free transfer.
Man City make Felix enquiry
Manchester City are wasting no time in strengthening their side this summer.
Having already brought in both Ferran Torres and Nathan Ake, City still have plenty left in their summer budget and are considering at least one superstar signing.
The Athletic reports that City have already made an enquiry to Atletico Madrid for Joao Felix, who has fallen out of favour with manager Diego Simeone.
Pep Guardiola is eager to add to City’s attacking options but the traits of his ideal forward have yet to be identified because while Felix has been pinpointed as a potential signing, Lautaro Martinez is considered to be the natural heir to Sergio Aguero’s throne.
Chelsea’s Rice approach rebuffed
Chelsea have been forced to look elsewhere after West Ham dug their heels in with their refusal to sell Declan Rice.
Frank Lampard’s summer overhaul of his Chelsea squad is now set to focus on defensive reinforcements after some early attacking arrivals.
After missing out on Rice, the Blues have now made Atletico Madrid’s Jose Gimenez their top defensive target this summer.
While Gimenez has a release clause of £110 million, Football Insider reports that Chelsea hope to sign him for just £60 million.
Read More About: Arsenal, Chelsea, Declan Rice, Joao Felix, jurgen klopp, Liverpool, Manchester City, philippe coutinho
