CHELSEA have had a bid for Erling Haaland turned down by Borussia Dortmund, according to reports from Germany.
And the Blues are also reported to have made an offer for Federico Chiesa of Juventus.
Lionel Messi is on holiday after winning the Copa America with Argentina but has reportedly agreed a five-year new deal with Barcelona.
And Gianluigi Donnarumma has followed the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva in joining PSG from AC Milan.
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- Jake Lambourne
MARC MY WORDS
Crystal Palace are closing in on the signing of Marc Guehi from Chelsea.
The England Under-21 star is having a medical today and is set to sign a five-year contract with the South London club.
Guehi, 21, had an impressive season last term while on loan at Swansea, where he played 45 games and helped the Welsh side reach the Championship play-offs.
His expected signing will continue Palace’s flurry of transfer business this month after finally appointing a new manager in Patrick Vieira.
Winger Michael Olise, 19, has been poached from Reading for £8million, while third-choice goalkeeper Remi Matthews has joined on a free transfer.
New contracts are expected for defenders Joel Ward and Gary Cahill, but more signings are in the pipeline as sporting director Dougie Freedman rejuvenates an ageing squad.
- Jake Lambourne
TOP ROB
Arjen Robben has called time on his playing career for a second time after a spell with boyhood team Groningen.
The 37-year-old hung up his boots after leaving Bayern Munich in 2019 but returned to play for his first club last season.
However, injuries blighted his comeback and Robben announced his departure from the Eredivisie club on Thursday.
He wrote on Twitter: "Dear football friends, I have decided to end my football playing career.
"It is a very difficult choice. I want to thank everyone for all the heartwarming support!"
In a statement on the Groningen website, he added: "The football heart wanted to continue, especially with the ultimate goal of [playing in front of] a full Euroborg.
"But the decision to stop is fair and realistic. That is why I am no longer a player from today, but a supporter of our club."
Arjen Robben has confirmed the end of his playing career - Jake Lambourne
MARCHING ON
EXCLUSIVE -Brighton are planning to reopen talks with Solly March over a new contract.
Albion were negotiating fresh terms for the versatile wing-back in February.
But the discussions were parked after he had his season ended by a serious knee injury at the start of that month.
March, 26, has now returned to fitness and is in pre-season training ahead of the new campaign.
The Seagulls are hoping to convince their long-serving player, who has only ever played for Brighton, to commit to a new deal.
March’s current contract expires next summer, though Albion have an option to extend for a further year.
- Jake Lambourne
OH CAM ON
Eduardo Camavinga is set to snub Premier League interest in favour of LaLiga, according to reports.
The Rennes wonderkid has drawn admiration from the likes of Manchester United, Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain this summer.
But according to The Telegraph, Camavinga has his 'heart set' on a move to Spain.
Neither Real Madrid nor Barcelona are well placed to make a bid for the 18-year-old, given their financial woes.
But both are expected to be better placed next summer – when Camavinga's contract at Rennes expires.
Man Utd and the Gunners have been asked to be kept in the loop regarding the midfielder's transfer status this summer.
Camavinga could see out the remaining year of his contract at Rennes - Jake Lambourne
OVERHAUL
Tottenham could sell TEN players this summer as part of a huge clearout.
The Athletic state Spurs’ finances mean ‘they are almost in a position where they must sell before they can buy’ this window.
For the second-straight year full-back Serge Aurier, linked with Paris Saint-Germain, is believed to be for sale.
Tottenham ‘would also listen to offers for Davinson Sanchez’ as well as fellow centre-half Cameron Carter-Vickers despite him shining on-loan at Bournemouth last term.
As we reported last week, Toby Alderweireld could be another on his way out, along with Moussa Sissoko, Harry Winks Erik Lamela and Lucas Moura.
Winger Jack Clarke is believed to want and stay to try and make a breakthrough under Nuno.
And Carlos Vinicius, who spent last season on loan from Benfica, will not be returning as Spurs have focused their attention elsewhere.
- Jake Lambourne
SUMMER LOVIN'
Erling Haaland could be set to become the Premier League's most expensivetransfer.
Chelsea have had an opening offer rejected for the Borussia Dortmund striker.
It is understood that BVB value him at around £150million.
And should the West Londoners cough up that sum, he would cost more than £60m more than what Man Utd paid for Paul Pogba in 2016.
- Jake Lambourne
HAA LA LAND
Chelsea have had their opening bid for Erling Haaland REJECTED by Borussia Dortmund.
The Blues have been heavily linked with a move for the Norwegian striker this summer.
BVB have been adamant that they will not sell the youngster after allowing Jadon Sancho to join Manchester United.
According to Sky Sports, Chelsea have tested the water with an opening bid which has been swiftly turned down.
The offer included Tammy Abraham or Callum Hudson-Odoi.
It remains to be seen whether the West Londoners will return with an improved bid for the £150million-rated centre forward.
- Jake Lambourne
GIOR DROPPING
Giorgio Chiellini is set to be handed a new contract by Juventus.
The Euro 2020 champion is a free agent after his contract at the Allianz Stadium expired last month.
But it is understood that the Old Lady plan to offer the 36-year-old a new one-year deal.
Chiellini's agent Davide Lippi is set to hold talks with the Serie A giants in the next few days.
- Jake Lambourne
VERY RICE KIT
Declan Rice features front and centre in West Ham's new home kit launch in a huge hint he could stay at the club.
The Hammers also gave local NHS heroes a first look at the classy throwback strip before its official launch on Thursday morning.
Staff from Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust were invited to see the new gear before anyone else to thank them for their sterling efforts during the pandemic.
The Trust's Queen’s Hospital in Romford is just around the corner from the Irons’ Rush Green training ground.
And die-hard Hammers fans Lindsey Wood, Tony Kaura, Biruk Tessema and John Mealey were given an exclusive first peak.
Hammers fans will be delighted to see Declan Rice modelling their flash new home kit for 2020-21
- Jake Lambourne
SAM’S TOWN
Arsenal are reportedly one of a number of clubs keen to sign West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.
The Gunners are in the market for a new shot-stopper after No2 Mat Ryan departed, while Bernd Leno is still facing an uncertain future.
And according to The Athletic, Arsenal, Tottenham and West Ham are looking to snap Johnstone up.
The Hammers have already had a £10million bid rejected for the England international.
However they are said to be prepared to pay no more with Johnstone in the final year of his contract at the Hawthorns.
- Jake Lambourne
S-MART MOVE
Neil Warnock has confirmed Argentinian midfielder Martin Payero has passed a medical with Middlesbrough.
The 22-year-old is set to move from Argentine club Banfield for around £6million after competing with his nation’s U23 side at the Tokyo Olympics.
The Boro boss said: “Whether he can start straight away with the Championship we'll have to see.
“I'm hoping he plays regularly in the Olympics so if he does fitness won't be a problem.
“I've asked him to get knocked out in the quarter finals if he can. I had a good chat with the lad and he was looking forward to it.
“Nice lad and I think he's looking to build a platform for the next few years.
"He can play eight and 10. He makes some good runs when he's further forward. He very rarely gives the ball away, good on set pieces. He can chip in with goals as well.”
Middlesbrough are swooping for Argentinian midfielder Martin Payero - Jake Lambourne
RON HIS WAY BACK
Juventus have insisted Cristiano Ronaldo has given no indication he wants to leave and that they expect him back for training this month.
The 36-year-old Portuguese legend only has a year left on his contract in Italy and faces an uncertain future at Juve with Paris Saint-Germain believed to be keen to secure his services.
However, Juventus director Pavel Nedved is adamant that the icon has not asked to quit the club a year early.
And he expects him back in Turin after the superstar has finished holidaying following his exploits at Euro 2020 that saw him secure the golden boot at the tournament.
Nedved said: “Cristiano is on holiday. We have no signal from his entourage that he wants to leave.
“We're waiting for him and he will return around 25 July as scheduled.”
- Jake Lambourne
DON’T TRIP UP
Atletico Madrid defender Kieran Trippier is ‘open’ to joining Man Utd this summer, reports say.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is in the market for a new right-back to provide competition for Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
And according to the Telegraph, the England international is desperate to return to the Premier League after two years in Spain.
United have already had one bid rejected for Trippier, with Atletico holding out for £30million.
Two other English sides remain keen to sign Trippier, but the player’s preference is to link up with United.
- Jake Lambourne
LEW & BEHOLD
Man City's hunt for a new elite striker appears to have switched to Bayern Munich’s Robert Lewandowski.
The Premier League champions lost legendary frontman Sergio Aguero this summer to Barcelona leaving them desperate for reinforcements.
Pep Guardiola’s No1 target is Tottenham’s wantaway England skipper Harry Kane.
But a £100m transfer offer for the 27-year-old was rejected by Spurs prior to Euro 2020 with the North London club determined to keep their talisman.
That has led City to seek out alternative options and the Daily Mail claims they are monitoring Lewandowski’s contract situation.
The Polish hitman has two years remaining on his £300,000-plus a week deal at Munich but has still not signed a new one.
Man City are monitoring Robert Lewandowski's situation at Bayern Munich - Jake Lambourne
WHAM TAM
Chelsea are reportedly snubbing all advances for Tammy Abraham because they want to use him to help sign Erling Haaland.
Norwegian Haaland is wanted by Blues and is their No1 summer transfer target ahead of Harry Kane and Romelu Lukaku.
Borussia Dortmund have already agreed to sell Jadon Sancho to Manchester United.
And they are determined to hold on to the 20-year-old striker until at least next summer.
However, the Daily Mirror claims Chelsea hope the inclusion of England international Abraham could be key in their pursuit.
The Chelsea ace is wanted by a host of Premier League clubs after falling out of favour with Thomas Tuchel.
West Ham and Aston Villa are attempting to sign him on loan or permanently.
- Jake Lambourne
GREAL CHANCE
Jack Grealish has treated Aston Villa fans to a cheeky strip tease.
Pessimistic Villa fans feared they would never see Grealish in their club's colours again when he headed off for England duty, amid rumours Pep Guardiola was preparing to launch a £100million bid after the Euros.
However Grealish surprised and delighted his Villa fanbase when he was pictured wearing the club's new 2021-22 Kappa kit when it was launched.
The club's poster-boy was shown in snaps with his feet up at Villa Park modelling the new look, while declaring his love for his hometown club in a promotional video.
"Everyone knows what claret and blue means to me," commented the England midfielder.
"I've been a Villa boy all my life, and I love playing for this club."
Jack Grealish pictured wearing the Aston Villa's new 2021-22 Kappa kit - Jake Lambourne
MAG-ICAL BOSS
Harry Maguire has revealed his relief that Gareth Southgate will lead England into the World Cup next year.
The Three Lions manager is contracted until after the 2022 tournament in Qatar and the FA wants to extend the deal.
The Manchester United captain said: “It is good that everything is settled. You don’t want anything hanging over the team.
“He has done an amazing job from when he first took over. We spoke about how we wanted to be recognised as the best team. So to reach the final of Euro 2020 is a great achievement but we now have to take the next step and be convincing in these big games and these big moments.
“I think Gareth has done an amazing job and deserves the credit and deserves another opportunity.”
Southgate has been manager since 2016 but said: “I did not want to outstay my welcome” in terms of agreeing a longer contract.
- Gary Stonehouse
GOOD MORNING FOOTY FANS
Chelsea could be ready to agree to Borussia Dortmund's £150million asking price for Erling Haaland – while Manchester United are unhappy with Real Madrid's £60m valuation of Raphael Varane.
That's the pick of the transfer speculation, with updates too on Jadon Sancho and Ben White.
Chelsea are now strong favourites for Norway striker Haaland, despite earlier links to Premier League champions City and neighbours United.
And it's thought Blues' owner Roman Abramovich is finally willing to pay something like the huge fee Dortmund want for the 20-year-old, with player-exchanges previously pondered.
Meanwhile, it's claimed France centre-back Varane is very happy with the possible terms on offer from United.
But the main stumbling block is said to be Old Trafford chiefs only wanting to pay out around £40m for a player Real value at £60m.
Better news for United fans is that England attacker Sancho is tipped to complete his £73million move from Dortmund.
And Brighton’s £50m-rated centre-back White could complete his move to Arsenal this month.
The England squad member, 23, is on holiday after Euro 2020.
- Ian Tuckey
HARRY WILL INSPIRE A GENERATION
Terry Butcher is loving the idea that kids will now be itching to become defenders.
After England conceded just two goals at the Euros, the Three Lions legend reckons the days of children lining up to play striker could be over.
Instead, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and the rest of the 2021 crop have put defending back in vogue.
Former centre-back Butcher said: “I was talking to someone and they were saying youngsters will now want to be a Maguire, a Shaw, a John Stones, a Kyle Walker or a Kieran Trippier.
“I just think, ‘Wow’, that’s really positive compared to everyone wanting to be a striker — a Harry Kane.
“We’ve moved on a long way from when nobody wanted to be a defender.
“As a kid, others were already strikers so you had to go and play centre-back.
“People didn’t want to do that, but not now — it’s all changed and that gives me a lot of pride.”
- Ian Tuckey
JACKASS
A yob filmed putting a lit flare in his bum strolled into Wembley without a ticket following a 15-hour drink and drugs bender.
Charlie Perry, 25, last night boasted of dodging shambolic security at England’s Euros final after downing 20 cans of cider.
Some 2,500 gatecrashers caused mayhem but he said: “I’m not sorry.”
One of the shameful army of Wembley gatecrashers last night told how getting in without a ticket for the historic Euro 2020 final was “p*** easy”.
Brazen Charlie Perry, 25, was filmed putting a lit flare in his bum after boozing since 8.30am — nearly 12 hours before the England-Italy game.
He estimates he downed 20 cans of Strongbow and “banged a load” of “powder” throughout Sunday — but was allowed to stroll in without a ticket for the showpiece final.
Scenes of Wembley being stormed by drunken gatecrashers who then refused to budge from the seats of paying fans may wreck England’s hopes of hosting a World Cup.
But Chelsea fan Perry, who boasted of bribing a steward to get in, insisted he “regrets nothing” and is already looking forward to the next tournament in Qatar in 2022.
He gloated last night: “I’d been on the p*** since half eight in the morning and had had at least 20 cans of Strongbow. It was the biggest day of my life. There were no rules that day. All I know is that I loved it all. I was off my face and I loved every minute.”
- Ian Tuckey
GRIFFITHS CLEARED
Leigh Griffiths has been cleared by cops over claims he sent inappropriate messages to two schoolgirls.
The Celtic striker was sent home from the team's training camp last week as police and the club launched separate probes.
And it has now been revealed that officers have ended their probe into the star – ruling there was no criminality.
A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: "In relation to recent reporting regarding alleged inappropriate communications online, a full assessment has been carried out and it’s been established there is no criminality."
It comes after cops have interviewed a 15-year-old who allegedly received inappropriate messages from the footie ace.
Officers are understood to have visited the teenager and her family at home after pictures of Instagram chats were made public last week.
Screenshots of messages which circulated on social media appear to show the Hoops forward called the girl “ya cutie” – but it’s not known if he was aware of her age.
The girl later wrote on Instagram: “I’m sure a lot of you have seen what’s going on, Leigh Griffiths didn’t ask my age, therefore he wasn’t capable of knowing.
“In no way does this make it right, but anyway Hail Hail."
- Ian Tuckey
TICKET-GATE FURY
AN England fan was left fuming after paying £1,000 for a Euro 2020 final ticket… only to be denied entry to Wembley.
Footy lover Thomas Watson, 25, forked out a grand to watch Sunday’s showpiece event between the Three Lions and Italy live.
Despite turning up late to kick-off, he had his £1,040 ticket – which cost double the general price – given the green light at check-in.
However, Thomas was not allowed inside the Wembley stands after gates were shut due to ticketless thugs storming the stadium.
Thomas’ father, who had his own ticket, managed to find a way in at half-time.
But his son wasn’t as fortunate after they split up in search of separate routes.
It meant the sales assistant from Luton missed almost the entire match.
Thomas did manage to get inside to see Italy’s winning penalty and England’s heartbreaking defeat after exit doors were opened.
But he admits he was left devastated by the brutal barring and his expensive 30 seconds of action.
- Ian Tuckey
PSG’S RUMM DEAL
PSG have confirmed the signing of Italy keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who was linked with Manchester United and Chelsea, on a free transfer from AC Milan.
The Euro 2020 player of the tournament has penned a five-year contract with the French giants, who were deposed as Ligue 1 champs by Lille.
The deal ends Donnarumma’s six years as Milan’s No1 stopper.
The 22-year-old was just 16 when he made his San Siro debut.
Donnarumma went on to play 251 times for Milan, winning the 2016 Italian Super Cup.
But he will now line up alongside superstars including Neymar and Kylian Mbappe after opting to play for Mauricio Pochettino’s side.
Donnarumma said: “I am delighted to be part of this huge club.
“I feel ready to take on this new challenge and continue to grow here.
“With Paris, I want to win as much as possible and to bring joy to the supporters.”
- Ian Tuckey
WHITE ON COURSE
Brighton’s £50million-rated centre-back Ben White could complete his move to Arsenal this month.
The England squad member, 23, is on holiday after Euro 2020.
And although the Gunners hope to land the two-cap star for around £40m, it’s thought an agreement could soon be finalised.
Credit: PA - Ian Tuckey
SANCHO ‘DEAL CONFIRMATION WITHIN DAYS’
Jadon Sancho’s £73million arrival from Borussia Dortmund should be confirmed by Manchester United within days, reports suggest.
The England wideman has already agreed personal terms and completed a medical on Tuesday
It’s thought he will formally complete his move by early next week at the latest as he recovers from the disappointment of missing a shootout penalty in England’s Euro 2020 final defeat against Italy.
Credit: AP
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