Arsenal's transfer woes have been exacerbated by the worrying injury news surrounding William Saliba, and in response, they're sniffing out a top-class defender to fill the void. John Stones, Manchester City's England ace, is reportedly on their radar – a shrewd move that could provide valuable experience at the back if their 25-year-old French star faces an extended spell on the sidelines. With the transfer window open for business, clubs across the Premier League and Championship are wheeling and dealing in pursuit of key signings.
Meanwhile, Chelsea's scouting network has identified a gem in Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix – a 26-year-old French defender they're eager to snap up for £55 million. The Blues' interest in bolstering their defensive options is clear, with several top clubs vying for the best talent as the new season looms large.
Hull City are also getting stuck into transfer business, with Leon Bailey's signature from Aston Villa high on their wish list. The 28-year-old Jamaica winger would bring a much-needed attacking spark to the Championship outfit, while talks with former Newcastle left-back Matt Targett (30) are reportedly nearing completion – he's available on a free transfer.
Fulham boss Alvaro Arbeloa is going back to his old stomping ground at Real Madrid in search of fresh talent. He's keen to bring in 18-year-old Argentine winger Franco Mastantuono and 22-year-old Spanish forward Gonzalo Garcia to Craven Cottage, while the battle for Jonathan Rowe's signature between Aston Villa and Chelsea continues to simmer.
Liverpool are set to join the fray for Roma's 25-year-old French midfielder Manu Kone, who's also attracting attention from Manchester United. Meanwhile, Aston Villa have held talks with Chelsea about signing Nicolas Jackson and Alejandro Garnacho – a move that could add some much-needed firepower to their ranks.
Other transfer stories include Lazio's interest in West Ham's Aaron Wan-Bissaka (28) – the 33-year-old DR Congo defender also has Arsenal circling. Juventus are prioritising Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez, while keeping tabs on Fiorentina's David de Gea. Everton and Inter Milan are vying for Djed Spence's signature, with Liverpool keen on signing Daniel Svensson from Borussia Dortmund.