Players on the move: Join Razeen Gutta for a weekly roundup of all the biggest deals taking place around South Africa and Europe.
Arsenal are working on a huge double deal for Bruno Guimaraes and Vinicius Junior as Mikel Arteta looks to further strengthen his title winning squad ahead of the new campaign.
Europe
The Gunners have already been among the Premier League’s biggest spenders this summer, but their transfer business could be far from over.
According to multiple reports, Arsenal are working on moves for Newcastle captain Guimaraes and Real Madrid superstar Vinicius, with both Brazilians high on Arteta’s wishlist.
A deal for Guimaraes could be worth between £70 million and £80 million (± R1.6 billion to R1.8 billion), with negotiations now entering a crucial stage.
As for Vinicius, Arsenal’s hopes of landing the Real Madrid star could depend on the outcome of his contract negotiations with the Spanish giants.
With the Gunners spending heavily, Manchester United could look to take advantage by making a move for Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly.
The Red Devils are understood to be exploring whether the 18-year-old left-back could be available, although it remains to be seen whether Arsenal would even consider selling one of their brightest young players.
Staying in the Premier League, Chelsea have completed the signing of former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson on a free transfer.
The 36-year-old has signed a two-year deal at Stamford Bridge after leaving Brentford, with new Blues boss Xabi Alonso keen to add experience and leadership to his young squad.
Over at Liverpool, the Reds have had their opening bid for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola rejected.
The offer is reportedly worth around £100 million (± R2.3 billion), but Liverpool are expected to return with an improved bid as they look to test PSG’s resolve over the French international.
Tottenham could benefit from the situation, with Spurs now showing interest in Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo.
The North London club, who only just survived relegation last season, recently signed Andry Robertson and will now shift their attention to attack, with Manchester City winger Savinho also on their radar.
South Africa
Closer to home, Kaizer Chiefs have announced the arrival of Langelihle Phili from Stellenbosch.
The 21-year-old winger becomes the fourth signing under new head coach Fernando Da Cruz as Amakhosi continue to reshape their squad ahead of the new campaign.
Phili enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with Stellenbosch and had attracted interest from a number of clubs before Chiefs secured his signature. The winger scored seven league goals last season and will now get the chance to impress in Soweto.
Meanwhile, former Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa is closing in on a move to Moroccan champions Maghreb de Fès.
The 29-year-old was recently released by the Buccaneers and is reportedly set to sign a three-year deal, split into two years with an option for a further season as per Soccer Laduma.
Pictured above: Bruno Guimaraes and Vinicius Junior
Source: @afcupdates1
