Arne Slot 'approves' Liverpool move for 19-assist winger as Arsenal 'agree amount' for clinical striker

Premier League clubs are wasting no time in getting stuck into the transfer market as they prepare for another action-packed season. With Euro 2024 in full swing and approaching the knockout stages, managers have had time to watch potential transfer targets in action as they mull over their options before the tournament ends.

Let’s dive into some of the latest Premier League transfer rumours as the start of the 2024/25 season creeps over the horizon.

Slot green lights Liverpool move for 19-assist winger

Liverpool have been tipped to undergo a busy transfer window under the reign of their new manager. The Reds have also brought in Richard Hughes as their new sporting director, who will work alongside Michael Edwards in his new role with FSG.

Amid a number of exit links, including Luis Díaz’s connection with Barcelona and the uncertain future of Mohamed Salah, Liverpool are monitoring some new forwards. CaughtOffside has reported that the Merseyside outfit remain keen on signing Nico Williams of Athletic Bilbao, and Slot has ‘approved a potential transfer move’ for the Spanish international.

Williams is currently enjoying his run at Euro 2024 and has caught a lot of attention following his impressive domestic season. The 21-year-old tallied an impressive eight goals and 19 assists across all competitions last season, making him an unsurprising target of many clubs this summer.

The report claims that Williams currently has a €50 million (£42.2m) release clause in place and Liverpool are up against fierce competition. Arsenal, Barcelona, Chelsea and Manchester United are all reportedly in the running for the winger as well, so it will be no easy task to convince him to join the Anfield ranks.

The 3AM Verdict: Liverpool are eyeing a number of wide attacking players right now, particularly on the left as Díaz could well be on his way out. They do also need to plan for Salah’s eventual exit too — even if it’s not this summer, the 32-year-old will leave some day and they must be prepared to replace such a talent. Williams is confident playing on both the left and right wing and his release clause is much lower than some asking prices for other wingers out there right now. At 21, Williams would be a smart investment for Liverpool but against such strong competition, they may struggle to convince him and his party.

Arsenal ‘agree amount’ for clinical striker

According to Portuguese outlet Leonino, Arsenal are ‘about to sign’ Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP as they continue their search for a new powerhouse to lead their attack. The 26-year-old has been linked with a number of clubs recently but the Gunners believe he is ‘the missing piece’ in their squad to topple Manchester City at the top of the table.

The report claims that Arsenal have also negotiated a lower fee for Gyökeres, who has a €100 million (£84.5m) release clause in place. Sources have revealed that both the Gunners and Sporting have ‘agreed on a fixed amount’ of €90 million (£76m) instead. However, the add-ons that are likely to be added could eventually increase the overall amount to more than €120 million (£101m) in total, depending on criteria including goals scored, appearances and titles won while in North London.

The 3AM Verdict: With a staggering 43 goals and 15 assists in all competitions last season, it’s very easy to see why Arsenal are so keen on winning the race for Gyökeres. Eddie Nketiah has been linked with a summer exit and Gabriel Jesus’ future is ‘not guaranteed’ at the Emirates, leaving a big hole to fill up front. A signing like Gyökeres would be a huge addition to Arsenal and their attack as they hope to finally get the better of Man City in next season’s title race. A clinical, goal-poaching No.9 could be exactly what they need to do that. Mikel Arteta is also keen to cash in on some existing players, which will help balance the books after splashing out such significant cash.