Robert O'Connor

New Zealand Football has withdrawn its support for Gianni Infantino’s bid for a fourth term as FIFA president, breaking with the wider Oceania Football Confederation. NZF cited a breakdown in trust and divisions within international football and called for an independent review of FIFA’s abandoned Forward Enterprise scheme, as well as stronger governance, accountability and transparency. The move follows opposition from UEFA, Concacaf, the AFC and several national associations, while African and South American football bodies continue to back Infantino.

Jordan Henderson has joined Chelsea on a two-year free transfer after Brentford mutually terminated his contract. The 36-year-old former Liverpool captain brings extensive Premier League, Champions League and international experience, although he is recovering from a broken wrist. His arrival, alongside Danny Welbeck's signing, signals a shift in Chelsea's recruitment strategy under manager Xabi Alonso and owners BlueCo, away from an exclusive focus on young players following a disappointing 10th-place finish.

Chelsea are reportedly in talks to sign 35-year-old Brighton striker Danny Welbeck after his 13-goal Premier League season. Brighton may sanction the move for the right fee, while Welbeck's arrival could increase uncertainty around Chelsea forwards Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson. The pursuit would mark a shift under manager Xabi Alonso toward experienced signings, contrasting with the club's recent focus on younger players.

Chelsea signed Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for £117 million on a seven-year contract, making him the club’s record signing. The 23-year-old forward chose Chelsea over strong competition from Arsenal, influenced by new manager Xabi Alonso. Rogers arrives after a successful spell at Villa and recent performances for England at the World Cup. The transfer signals a shift in Chelsea’s recruitment strategy toward experienced players and is part of a broader squad overhaul that includes several new arrivals.

West Ham agreed to sell Crysencio Summerville to Al-Hilal for £68m, surpassing previous interest from Roma, Manchester United, and Aston Villa. Summerville is expected to complete a medical and sign a long-term deal, ending his six-year stint in England. The transfer marks West Ham’s second major departure of the summer after Mateus Fernandes joined Tottenham Hotspur for £85m.

Arsenal have agreed to sell Leandro Trossard to Besiktas pending personal terms, ending his three-and-a-half-year spell with the club. The Belgian forward contributed key goals and assists during Arsenal’s title-winning season, including a decisive winner against West Ham and an assist in the Champions League final. Both clubs have confirmed negotiations, and Trossard departs after 174 appearances and 36 goals, following a strong World Cup showing for Belgium.