Arsenal is at the forefront of the pursuit for top forward Viktor Gyokeres, while Manchester United shifts its focus to Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa.

Arsenal’s pursuit of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres has received a significant boost in recent days, as reported by The Mirror. One key factor in this development is Manchester United’s decision to shift their focus towards Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins. The Mirror states, “Arsenal’s move for Viktor Gyokeres appears to be back on track following various reports around clauses being activated and personal terms being agreed.”

However, the biggest hurdle remains Sporting Lisbon’s reluctance to accept a fee lower than Gyokeres’ €100 million release clause. The reports suggest that Manchester United’s apparent withdrawal from the race for Gyokeres has coincided with their interest in bringing Ollie Watkins to Old Trafford, a player who was previously on Arsenal’s radar in January.

In other news, Everton are facing challenges in reshaping their squad after 15 players became free agents at the start of the month. Despite the upheaval, there is hope for the Toffees as Michael Keane and Idrissa Gana Gueye may return on new deals, while Jack Harrison could also be signed again. The Telegraph explains, “In all, 15 players were out of contract on July 1. Exciting Argentine Carlos Alcaraz was signed on a permanent deal and veteran club captain Seamus Coleman was retained.”

Both Idrissa Gana Gueye and Michael Keane are reportedly close to agreeing new contracts, and there is a possibility of Jack Harrison returning after successive loan spells. The start of July was always expected to bring more clarity, particularly for those contemplating their futures after being offered reduced terms, most notably Dominic Calvert-Lewin. His departure, alongside Armando Broja’s return to Chelsea, means Everton are in urgent need of two strikers, as well as a full-back, central midfielders, wingers, and at least one back-up goalkeeper.

Meanwhile, Rangers have made a move for Joe Rothwell and are now setting their sights on Luton Town’s Thelo Aasgaard. The Daily Mail reports that the Norway international is expected to cost well in excess of £3 million. The paper states, “Rangers are in talks to sign Luton Town’s highly-rated Norway midfielder Thelo Aasgaard after completing the signing of Joe Rothwell from Bournemouth on a three-year deal.”

Aasgaard, who joined Luton from Wigan in January, is now poised for a move following the club’s relegation to League One. The 23-year-old was signed for a fee of £3 million, and it is anticipated that Luton will make a healthy profit on that investment.

Lastly, Leeds United are looking to strengthen their squad for the upcoming Premier League season, but they are also open to selling certain players. Max Wober is one such player, with the Austrian international defender reportedly close to joining Werder Bremen. The Athletic states, “Leeds United are in talks with Werder Bremen over the permanent transfer of Max Wober to the Bundesliga outfit.”

While a deal has not yet been finalised, sources at Elland Road, speaking on the condition of anonymity, are optimistic that an agreement will be reached. Injuries hampered Wober’s 2024-25 season, and with the form of Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk, he struggled to secure regular minutes when fit. With two years remaining on his Leeds contract, a summer move appears to be beneficial for all parties involved.