"Shameful" claims about Lazio star quashed as Sergio Busquets quits Barcelona
The agent of Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has slammed “shameful” claims over the Lazio star’s future.
A move for the Serbian international has been touted this summer once again, with Premier League sides including Newcastle and Manchester United linked.
But ex-Chelsea striker Mateja Kezman, who represents the the 6ft 4in midfielder insists he is not yet thinking about his future and remains committed to his current club.
“We’ve spoken many times with the president, deciding that we’ll discuss everything at the end of the season, especially now that Lazio need peace,” said Kezman.
“That’s why everyone at Lazio must remain united. Four games remain, and I am sure they will play in the Champions League next season.”
Marcel Sabitzer completes Man Utd transfer after last-minute deadline day dashBy Jake Polden
Farewell Sergio
Barcelona have confirmed that Sergio Busquets will leave the club when his contract ends this summer.
The 34-year-old has been a fixture in the first team since 2008, played over 700 games and is on the verge of a ninth La Liga title. He is also a three-time Champions League winner.
But he has elected to leave after rejecting a new deal on reduced terms.
“It has been an honour, a dream, a source of pride and meant everything to defend and represent this badge for so many years. Although it has not been an easy decision I think the time has come.”
The World Cup winner has been tipped to make a Saudi Arabian pay day.
By Alex Richards
Premier League clubs on Abraham alert
Rma are ready to sell Tammy Abraham for £40m this summer - and believe he will return to the Premier League.
Former Chelsea striker Abraham enjoyed a brilliant first season in Italy but it has not gone so well this time and Roma will be open to offers. Chelsea do have a buy-back option on the England international but a return seems unlikely with their bulging squad numbers.
However, Roma expect any buyer to come from the Premier League because of the price tag and also his contract would make it hard for him to move to another Italian club.
Man Utd deadline day live updates as Sabitzer completes loan moveThe Italian media have linked him with Aston Villa but, judging by Ollie Watkins’ form and how he has benefitted from being the main man, that would seem unlikely. Abraham has spoken before about how much he has enjoyed his move to Italy but there will be no shortage of Prem clubs eyeing him this summer.
By John Cross
Arsenal eye Premier League defensive pair
Arsenal are looking for big-name signings this summer - but will also look to bolster their squad depth.
They want a top quality defender with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi among their more ambitious targets. But they could also look for a back-up right back, having lost Takehiro Tomiyasu to a long term knee injury.
Gunners scouts have made checks on Leicester’s Belgium full back Timothy Castagne as one potential option. He has also played at left back. The other current back-up right back Cedric Soares is out on loan at Fulham.
They are unlikely to spend big on bolstering the squad as big names signings remain the priority with Declan Rice at the top of the wish list but they may also balance the books with Folarin Balogun and Kieran Tierney potential departures. AC Milan and Newcastle respectively are both interested.
By John Cross
Burnley’s transfer plans
Vincent Kompany says Burnley have been preparing for this summer’s transfer window for six months.
Kompany, in his first season in charge at Turf Moor, led the Clarets to an immediate return to the Premier League ending the season with 101 points.
But he knows he needs to improve his squad further if they hope to re-establish themselves in the top flight.
“We’ve been planning for comfortably six months for this scenario,” Kompany said. “We’re going to have to be smart but, because we’ve been planning for a long time, I feel confident we can improve the squad without losing what has been good for us this season.
“At the same time we have to make sure we don’t go and bankrupt the club. It’s about healthy decisions, protecting the club, but at the same time trying to be competitive.”
By James Whaling
McAtee happy to return to Blades
Manchester City youngster James McAtee is open to staying at Sheffield United next season.
The midfielder played his part in the Blades’ promotion back to the Premier League and with first-team opportunities likely to be at a premium at the Etihad, would be keen to return for more first-team action.
"Everyone can see that I have developed, I have got a little bit bigger and a bit more comfortable playing in front of fans. I have developed massively.
“They (United) have treated me very nicely and trusted me all the way, so it's definitely an option. I want to be playing in the best league in the world, everyone does. It's the next step in my career."
By Tom Blow
West Brom ready to sell Grant
West Brom will listen to offers for striker Karlan Grant this summer.
Grant has Championship admirers while Scottish side Rangers have registered an interest.
Grant signed a six-year deal when he joined the Baggies for £15million in 2020 but he is now surplus to requirements.
By Darren Witcoop