Joe McConnell
The most important news and transfer rumours published in Thursday’s newspapers…
THE GUARDIAN
Arsenal are prepared to be patient in their bid to land Mikel Merino after their initial bid for the Spanish midfielder was rejected by Real Sociedad.
THE TELEGRAPH
Arsenal have approached Real Sociedad regarding midfielder Mikel Merino, stepping up their efforts to sign the Spain international.
Diego Simeone personally assured Conor Gallagher that he remains desperate for the midfielder to sign for Atletico Madrid before Gallagher boarded his flight back to London.
Manchester United are ready to give Jadon Sancho the chance to fight for his career at Old Trafford, as Paris Saint-Germain are unlikely to make a bid for the winger.
Eddie Hearn is open to offering gender-defying Olympic boxer Imane Khelif a professional contract after the Algerian’s gold medal in Paris, citing “talent” and “commercial appeal”.
A trial date has been set for next year after a South African man was accused of racially abusing former England international Ugo Monye after an Exeter Chiefs match.
THE TIMES
Napoli have begun talks with Manchester United over the potential signing of Scott McTominay.
Liverpool have stepped up their interest in Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, although he will not replace Alisson as the club’s No1 this season.
Napoli have stepped up their efforts to sign Romelu Lukaku, offering Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen to Chelsea as part of a proposed deal.
DAILY MIRROR
Arsenal president Edu was in Spain this week to finalise the purchase of 28-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino.
Peter Schmeichel argues that Erik ten Hag must improve Manchester United because the Premier League is their daily bread.
DAILY MAIL
Liverpool have stepped up talks to sign Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Napoli have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Billy Gilmour and Scott McTominay.
Rio Ferdinand has called on Manchester United not to bring Ivan Toney to the club, claiming the Brentford star’s profile is “wrong” after the striker was linked with a move to Old Trafford.
