EXCL: Man Utd *really close* to deal that feels like a NEW signing, Liverpool always planned THREE midfield purchases, crucial week ahead for Man City star, and more

Lavia, Caicedo and the midfield market - what’s the latest?

It could be a crucial few weeks ahead for Romeo Lavia. Chelsea and Manchester United are still keeping an eye on his situation, but the reality is that Chelsea are focusing on Moises Caicedo - more on that below.

Arsenal also have an interest in Lavia but are 100% focused on closing the deal for Declan Rice at the moment, and then Jurrien Timber. Still, Lavia could be an option for them if Thomas Partey leaves the club. As previously mentioned, Partey has interest from Juventus and from Saudi clubs, but as of now this is still nothing advanced. There has also been a verbal agreement for Granit Xhaka to join Bayer Leverkusen, which has been in place since May. It’s very advanced, but now it’s up to Arsenal, they will look to resolve final details of the Rice story and then decide on Xhaka and Partey.