Key Player Transfers to Watch Before Deadline Day
By Editor • August 31, 2026 • 2 min read
As the summer transfer window approaches its final hours, Premier League teams are racing against the clock to finalize major player signings. With the deadline set for Tuesday at 23:00 BST, several high-profile names are in the spotlight, including Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, and Cody Gakpo.
One of the most talked-about potential transfers is that of Julian Alvarez, the Atletico Madrid striker. The 26-year-old has reportedly expressed a desire to leave the club, yet Atletico is unwilling to sell him to their rivals Barcelona. However, they are open to a deal with Arsenal, who have shown keen interest in him. The Gunners are prepared to negotiate, though Atletico is demanding a hefty fee of €150 million (£128 million). Alvarez's absence from training, due to reported health issues, adds to the uncertainty surrounding his future.
Meanwhile, Enzo Fernandez's position at Chelsea is increasingly precarious. Having missed Chelsea's recent win over Brighton, he is being eyed by Manchester City for a potential record-breaking transfer. City, seeking to bolster their squad following key player departures, may surpass the £116 million paid for Elliot Anderson if they secure a deal for Fernandez. Should Fernandez leave, it could pave the way for Lamine Camara, currently at Monaco, to join Chelsea as his replacement.
Cody Gakpo, another player in the transfer spotlight, has generated interest from Manchester City and Tottenham. City is reportedly willing to offer around £85 million for the Dutch international, who is open to the move. However, Liverpool has also shown interest in Gakpo, but they would only allow his transfer if they can sign a replacement first.
Adding to the intrigue, Liverpool is now considering a move for Ismaila Sarr of Crystal Palace after their attempts to sign Yankuba Minteh from Brighton fell through. Initial bids for Sarr were rejected, but the Reds may return with a more attractive offer to secure the right-sided winger.
Tottenham is also active in the market, reportedly in advanced talks to bring Iliman Ndiaye from Everton. Richarlison could be part of this deal, as he aims to return to Everton after expressing a desire to leave Spurs. Meanwhile, Everton is optimistic about re-signing Jack Grealish on loan from Manchester City, despite the complexities surrounding the agreement.
In the backdrop, Newcastle's pursuit of Matias Fernandez-Pardo from Lille continues, with the 21-year-old's absence from recent matches signaling a possible transfer. Lastly, Manchester United is focusing on Joshua Zirkzee, with potential deals hinging on other transfers, including Jonathan David’s move to Atletico Madrid.
Source: www.bbc.co.uk
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