Mark Wakefield

Birmingham City have reportedly joined Derby County, Frosinone and Lecce in pursuing FC Basel winger Philip Otele. Basel are said to value the 27-year-old at about €5 million after he scored 10 goals and supplied five assists last season across Basel and Hamburg, including two Europa League goals. Otele has been praised for his explosiveness, physicality and versatility, but his move to Birmingham remains uncertain.

Arsenal are preparing a summer bid for Ezri Konsa, but Aston Villa may block the move by offering him a new contract. Konsa, a key performer for Villa and currently with England at the World Cup, has two years left on his deal, with valuations between the clubs reportedly far apart. Arsenal’s interest comes as defender William Saliba faces a lengthy injury absence. Morgan Rogers is also attracting attention from Arsenal. Unai Emery previously commented on Konsa’s contract length, noting it runs until 2028.