Liverpool manager Arne Slot has openly addressed the absence of Luis Díaz from the recent friendly defeat against AC Milan, attributing it to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the player’s future. Díaz, whose contract situation is becoming urgent with just two years remaining, remains a key figure Liverpool wish to secure for the long term.

Díaz did not feature in the squad for the friendly held in Hong Kong, alongside Darwin Núñez, who is also expected by many to leave the club this summer especially after the arrival of Hugo Ekitiké from Eintracht Frankfurt. Despite this, Liverpool stakeholders remain hopeful that Díaz will remain with the club.

When questioned about Díaz’s exclusion, Slot was candid: “due to speculation on his future.”

Díaz himself has been transparent about his position, acknowledging ongoing negotiations and the possibility of a transfer. He stated, “We are in the midst of negotiations, talking with Liverpool and everyone who is approaching us. I am very calm where I am and very happy. [But I will] make the best decision for me.” This openness underscores an important moment in Liverpool’s squad management as they navigate contract renewals and potential transfers ahead of the new season.

Nottingham Forest have intensified efforts to secure Morgan Gibbs-White with a new contract after accusing Tottenham Hotspur of an illegal approach during the summer transfer window. The dispute has escalated, with Forest reportedly considering legal action in response to how Spurs accessed confidential information, including a £60 million release clause—information which was not public knowledge.

Gibbs-White had been scheduled for a medical with Tottenham on July 10, but ongoing legal concerns have halted any progression towards a transfer. This disruption is a setback for Spurs and their new manager Thomas Frank, who, alongside signings such as Mohammed Kudus, had viewed Gibbs-White as a key reinforcement to bolster their squad following the departure of Ange Postecoglou.

Forest, who last season narrowly missed a top-four finish and participation in the UEFA Conference League playoffs, regard Gibbs-White as vital to their continued progress. The midfielder’s retention is particularly important amid the club’s summer exit of Anthony Elanga to Newcastle United.

Since joining Forest from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2022, Gibbs-White has been a crucial figure, contributing 18 goals in 112 appearances, alongside 28 assists. Last season, he delivered 17 goal involvements in the Premier League, tallying seven goals and 10 assists. Recent reports indicate Gibbs-White has joined Forest’s preseason preparations in Portugal, signaling his commitment to the club at this stage.

Viktor Gyökeres has expressed enthusiasm about proving his capabilities at Arsenal following his high-profile transfer from Sporting CP. The 27-year-old striker will don the legendary No. 14 jersey, previously worn by Thierry Henry, signaling high expectations among the Arsenal faithful.

In his first interview with the club’s media, Gyökeres emphasized his eagerness to score goals, stating, “I always want to score. To be a part of this club and to score in this kit and with this badge in front of all the supporters, I can’t wait. It will be an amazing feeling.” Reflecting on his career progression since first stepping onto English soil, he noted, “I started here [in England], it feels like a long time ago. I think I’ve improved a lot since then. Now I want to prove myself for real and perform together with the team.”

Gyökeres, who netted 54 goals across all competitions in the 2024–25 season, credited Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta as significant influences in his decision. He remarked on Arsenal’s strong squad and rich history as major draws, saying, “When I was playing against Arsenal last season, I could really feel it was a very strong team and very difficult to play against. That made me choose Arsenal, and of course all the history the club has and the massive fanbase. It’s been amazing to see all the support that they have already given me before I even arrived. That’s what it’s all about. It’s going to be very nice to see them in the stadiums as well.”

Gyökeres also reflected on his international success and Champions League experience, expressing confidence about his ability to perform at the highest levels with Arsenal: “It’s a big honour to play for your country, and then to score goals for them is amazing. When I played at Sporting, I scored a few goals in the Champions League so I feel that I can be on that level as well. Now to come here to a club on Arsenal’s level, I think it’s going to help me perform even better with all the amazing players in this team. I’m really excited to get going.”