The summer transfer window remains lively with multiple Premier League and European clubs pursuing notable targets. Juventus has shown interest in Liverpool forward Darwin Núñez, with the Reds potentially open to a loan deal including an option to buy. Liverpool are reportedly preparing to negotiate a deal valuing Núñez at around €65 million. Meanwhile, Arsenal are maintaining contact with Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze, although they are hesitant to meet his £60 million release clause.

Chelsea are progressing towards a deal for Xavi Simons while RB Leipzig look to re-sign Christopher Nkunku. Bayern Munich’s continued interest in Luis Díaz complements their summer strategy to offload David Alaba and Ferland Mendy, though neither player is currently keen on leaving.

Manchester United have ruled out a move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez after failing to meet Villa’s demand for a permanent sale. Nottingham Forest’s £25 million offer for Manchester City’s James McAtee was also rejected, with the Premier League champions seeking a higher fee.

Tottenham Hotspur are set to submit a £45 million bid for João Palhinha following talks with Bayern Munich. Additionally, Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Tottenham are all tracking Parma center back Giovanni Leoni, valued at €35 million.

Aston Villa are increasing their offer for Galatasaray forward Barış Alper Yılmaz, though still fall short of a €40 million valuation. Barcelona face pressure from Real Madrid over defender Ronald Araújo, prompting President Joan Laporta to negotiate with Liverpool, who are readying an offer exceeding €40 million for the player. Meanwhile, Barcelona’s Gerard Martín may be sold after teammate Jofre Torrents’ rise secured coach Hansi Flick’s approval.

Lastly, Barcelona lead interest in Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, favouring a loan with an option to buy over the Blues’ €50 million asking price. Across the board, this summer’s transfer activity signals significant squad reshaping among top European clubs.

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has provided clarity regarding the status of striker Alexander Isak, who remains a prominent target for Liverpool this transfer window. Speaking to the media, Howe reaffirmed the club’s intent to retain the 25-year-old forward. “He is still our player,” Howe stated, emphasizing that Isak is under contract with Newcastle and that the club controls any potential move.

Howe expressed his preference for Isak to stay but acknowledged the decision is not solely in his hands. “My wish is that he stays, but that’s not in my full control. We have not received a formal offer for Alex, from any club.”

Reports indicate that should Liverpool submit an official bid, it would need to surpass the British transfer record recently set by Florian Wirtz’s arrival at Anfield, with figures rumored to reach as high as £150 million ($199.9 million).

Highlighting the strategic approach Newcastle aims to maintain in the transfer market, Howe remarked, “It’s going to be an important time for us. There’s lots to take in. I don’t think we should, in any way, act out of character for how we’ve always tried to work in the windows and try to do what’s best for the football club in a strategic way. That can’t change.”

In addition to the uncertainty surrounding Isak’s future, Newcastle is focused on strengthening the squad ahead of their Champions League campaign. So far, Anthony Elanga’s acquisition from Nottingham Forest stands as the only notable signing, with several key targets having eluded the team this summer. Howe’s frustration is apparent as the club navigates a demanding season.

Liverpool’s first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker has departed the club’s Asian pre-season tour due to a “personal matter,” according to reports. The 32-year-old Brazil international played the first half of Liverpool’s 4–2 defeat to AC Milan in Hong Kong before being substituted by Giorgi Mamardashvili. Alisson was absent from an open training session in Tokyo and has been granted leave by Liverpool, with an expected return once the team arrives back in the United Kingdom.

Liverpool’s goalkeeping department remains well-stocked despite Alisson’s temporary absence. Giorgi Mamardashvili, who replaced him during the match, has openly expressed his ambition to claim the number one spot even when Alisson is fit. Additionally, Freddie Woodman, recently signed on a free transfer from Preston North End, serves as a reliable third-choice option.

Woodman has spoken positively about training alongside Alisson, saying, “Working with Ali, for myself I’m getting to work with one of the best in the world and I’m just trying to take bits from his game and put them into my game. It’s the same with Giorgi as well—they are world-class goalkeepers, top goalkeepers, and it’s a joy to work with them every day.”

Liverpool’s pre-season schedule includes a forthcoming fixture against Yokohama F. Marinos in Tokyo before the squad returns to Anfield. Following this, the club faces an unusual challenge of two matches against Athletic Club at Anfield on the same day, with kick-offs separated by only three hours.