Amie Wilson

Manchester United are reportedly monitoring Inter striker Pio Esposito and may wait until later in the transfer window in hopes that Inter lowers its demands. Inter considers the 21-year-old untouchable but has reportedly placed a £73 million valuation on him, while Arsenal is also interested. Esposito wants to play in the Premier League but is not expected to force a departure, and reports suggest he could instead sign improved terms with Inter after recording seven Serie A goals and two assists in the previous season.

Manchester United are reportedly prepared to pay up to £60 million for Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall, but Newcastle are expected to resist selling him. Hall has impressed in the Premier League and is high on United’s shortlist as the club seeks more left-back depth, with Patrick Dorgu potentially moving forward and Harry Amass allowed to leave. Newcastle’s determination to retain Hall has reportedly increased after several major departures, and the club is also considering a new contract for him. Fulham’s Antonee Robinson is viewed as a cheaper alternative, although his previous season was affected by a knee injury.

Manchester United remain interested in AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone, but reports suggest the club’s hierarchy is divided over a potential £51 million deal. Roma are reportedly seeking around €60 million, while Arsenal have been mentioned as an alternative destination, although their pursuit of Bruno Guimaraes may reduce the likelihood of a move for Kone. Patrice Evra praised Kone’s energy, ball-carrying and work rate but said his success would depend on adaptation and consistency. United are also considering other midfielders and have made Newcastle left-back Lewis Hall a priority amid questions over how to allocate their remaining transfer budget.

Manchester United have reportedly held talks with Palmeiras, alongside Manchester City and Barcelona, over 16-year-old Eduardo Conceicao. Palmeiras have cooled on a potential deal and intend to integrate the Brazilian teenager into their first team, believing his future value could rise to about €50 million (£42.8 million). The report also outlines United’s wider youth recruitment and midfield plans, including recent signings and possible targets, while noting that Rasmus Hojlund has left and Joshua Zirkzee may depart.

Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has reportedly agreed contract terms with Manchester City, positioning them ahead of Manchester United and Arsenal in the race to sign the 18-year-old Morocco international following his standout World Cup performances. Lille are expected to demand around €100 million, with City preparing negotiations while anticipating further interest from major European clubs. City view Bouaddi as capable of joining Enzo Maresca’s first team immediately, and former France international Emmanuel Petit highlighted the player’s maturity and technical qualities.

Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in extra time of the World Cup final, prompting post‑match confrontations and a controversial gesture as Argentina’s players turned their backs on Spain’s trophy presentation. Argentina finished with two red cards, including one issued after the final whistle. Spain’s Ferran Torres scored the winner and spoke of national pride, while manager Luis de la Fuente praised his team’s unity and resilience. Argentina’s behaviour throughout the tournament drew criticism for aggression and poor sportsmanship.