Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal identify Vinicius Jr alternatives and Cristian Romero eyes shock switch

In partnership with

The Independent

·8 August 2026

Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal identify Vinicius Jr alternatives and Cristian Romero eyes shock switch

Arsenal have moved on from their chase of Vinicius Jr after he signed a contract extension with Real Madrid and the Gunners have now reignited their interest in Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez, while PSG’s Bradley Barcola is also on their list.

Meanwhile, Rodri looks set to leave Manchester City amid interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid. The World Cup winning captain is into the final year of his contract and favours a move to Barca – who are considering a second bid after an initial offer of £38m was rejected.

OneFootball Videos

Liverpool, meanwhile, also want to sign Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain and have lined up his teammate Ibrahim Mbaye in what could be a double swoop for Andoni Iraola’s side, while the Reds also look to have secured much-needed defender help with ex-Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo set for a loan deal with an option to buy.