Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal identify new targets after Saliba blow, Liverpool hijack PSG’s bid for winger | OneFootball

Arsenal are set to sign a centre-back this summer after it was confirmed that Premier League title winner William Saliba has been ruled out for an “extended period” with a back injury. The Gunners could turn to Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa or former Manchester City centre-back John Stones, who is available as a free agent.

Arsenal are also set to step up their pursuit of Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes but the Magpies are said to be frustrated by the lack of contact from the Premier League champions in what could turn into a protracted transfer saga. Newcastle are holding out for a fee similar to Sandro Tonali’s potential £100m move to Tottenham Hotspur.

Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola has set out his targets for the transfer window and has confirmed the Reds “definitely need to sign a winger”. Liverpool have now reportedly turned their attention towards Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche, who is also wanted by Paris Saint-Germain, while PSG’s Bradley Barcola is also still a target.

Manchester United are still interested in adding another midfielder after signing Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans and are said to be in talks with Roma for France international Manu Kone, while Chelsea have agreed to loan Alejandro Garnacho to Aston Villa after their record signing of Morgan Rogers.

Alex Scott 'rejects Bournemouth contract' as Chelsea and Arsenal plot move

Bournemouth have rejected an approach from Chelsea for midfielder Alex Scott and the Cherris have reportedly made it clear that they will not be selling the England Under-21 international this summer.

However, the BBC have reported that Scott has rejected a new contract and has told Bournemouth that he is not willing to agree a new deal. The BBC report states that Chelsea’s bid was £64m but Bournemouth do not want to sell.

His current deal runs until 2028, so Bournemouth are not under pressure to sell this summer, having turned down one approach from Chelsea already.

Arsenal and Manchester United are also very interested as they seek help in the engine room and it would be a coup if any of the trio could prise Scott away from the south coast.

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Arsenal consider two centre-backs as cover for William Saliba after major injury blow

Arsenal are looking into a significant investment at centre-back with William Saliba expected to be out long-term following a major injury blow.

The France centre-back has returned from the World Cup 2026 with a back injury and while surgery is not required, he is expected to be out for an extended period.

The Independent understands that the Gunners will therefore pursue a new centre-back in the coming weeks as cover and are prepared to spend big to add depth to the position, rather than bring in a player on loan.

Although there is cover for Saliba in the shape of Piero Hincapie, Riccardo Califiori, Jurrien Timber, Cristhian Mosquera and Ben White, some of that group’s own injury issues and Mikel Arteta’s previous preference to avoid shifting his first-choice full-backs has led to a decision to spend again at centre-back this summer.

The Independent understands Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa and John Stones, available on a free transfer after his Man City contract expired, are both being considered.

Jack Rathborn23 July 2026 08:35

William Saliba set for ‘extended period’ on sidelines with back injury

Premier League champions Arsenal have been dealt a significant injury blow after centre-back William Saliba was ruled out for “an extended period” with a back injury.

The defender played with a back problem during France’s run to the World Cup semi-final and, although he will not require an operation, the 25-year-old is set for a spell on the sidelines.

“Subsequent specialist reviews on William’s return to London this week have confirmed that he has suffered a back injury which will require a period of rehabilitation,” said a statement from Arsenal.

Jamie Braidwood23 July 2026 07:57