Premier League Transfer News: Liverpool Target Hato Amid Defensive Concerns, Arsenal Close to Sealing Multiple Deals

The Premier League transfer window is officially open, and the rest of Europe is set to follow suit on July 1st. Here's a look at the latest transfer news and insights from ESPN's sources.

Liverpool's active start to the window, marked by £170 million in spending, might not be over yet. The departure of academy player Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen has created a pressing need for defensive reinforcements.

Defensive Targets for Liverpool:

• Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace): The 24-year-old England international is a strong contender to fill the defensive gap. He is homegrown, experienced, and admired at Anfield. However, securing guaranteed game time ahead of the 2026 World Cup could be a sticking point.

• Jorrel Hato (Ajax): The versatile 19-year-old, capable of playing both center back and left back, is attracting attention from top European clubs. While Liverpool have already strengthened at left back with the signing of Milos Kerkez, they might prefer a specialist central defender.

Other Potential Liverpool Departures

While Liverpool have been proactive in bringing players in, further additions may hinge on player departures.

• Darwin Núñez: Napoli are reportedly pushing to sign the striker. If he leaves, Liverpool will likely seek a replacement No. 9, but only if the right target becomes available. A move for Alexander Isak was deemed too expensive.
• Harvey Elliott: The midfielder may seek more playing time elsewhere after limited Premier League starts last season. Brighton & Hove Albion are reportedly interested.

Arsenal's Impending Signings

Arsenal are poised to announce several signings soon:

• Kepa Arrizabalaga (Chelsea): A £5m deal for the goalkeeper is expected to be finalized.
• Martín Zubimendi (Real Sociedad): The midfielder's £51m arrival is also imminent.
• Christian Nørgaard (Brentford): Talks have progressed quickly, with a deal worth up to £15m close.
• Cristhian Mosquera (Valencia): He is now Arsenal's preferred target for center back, with negotiations ongoing.
• Rodrygo (Real Madrid): Interest remains, but a deal is far from certain.

The center forward position remains a priority, with Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyökeres as leading targets. However, their valuations are proving to be a major obstacle.

Spurs Eye Eberechi Eze

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly keen on making Eberechi Eze their statement signing. However, Crystal Palace may demand as much as £70m for the forward. With Son Heung-Min potentially leaving, Eze has been identified as a perfect replacement.

Ronald Araújo's Release Clause

Barcelona defender Ronald Araújo's €65m release clause becomes active on July 1st. While Barcelona insist he is not for sale, their need to raise funds could make him a target for clubs like Juventus and Bayern Munich.

Monaco's Recruitment Strategy

Monaco's signings of Paul Pogba and Ansu Fati are considered significant gambles. While both players possess immense talent, questions remain about their fitness and ability to return to their best form.

Jonathan David's Future Uncertain

Despite attracting interest from several European clubs, Lille striker Jonathan David has yet to receive any firm offers as a free agent. Juventus are keen, and clubs like Atlético Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Everton are monitoring the situation.

Other Potential Deals

• Napoli are set to reject Al Hilal's approach for Scott McTominay.
• Manchester City have turned down a €6.5m offer from Hoffenheim for Callum Doyle.
• AC Milan are preparing an offer for Club Brugge midfielder Ardon Jashari.
• Atlético Madrid are pursuing deals for Johnny Cardoso, Matteo Ruggeri, and Álex Baena.
• Napoli have reached a verbal agreement with PSV Eindhoven to sign Noa Lang.
• Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini is attracting interest from several Premier League teams.
• Galatasaray are targeting Bayern Munich's Sacha Boey.
• Several clubs, including Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, and Fulham, are interested in FC Porto winger Pepê.
• São Paulo are open to letting Damián Bobadilla leave if an offer arrives.
• Luka Jovic's move to Cruz Azul is currently stalled.