Liverpool are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign Alexander Isak as the transfer deadline approaches fast on the saga of the summer.
The Premier League champions have already had bids knocked back for Isak in this window, with the wantaway forward making clear he has no desire to remain at Newcastle and excluded from the squad - but a new £130m bid is said to be incoming. The Tyneside club have so far held firm but have now reached an €80m agreement to sign highly-rated German striker Nick Woltemade, which could open the door for an Isak exit.
Elsewhere, Tottenham finalised a deal worth around £50m for Xavi Simons, as they beat Chelsea to sign the RB Leipzig attacker. Chelsea were interested in the Netherlands star, but prioritised their summer-long pursuit of Alejandro Garnacho – for whom they’ve now agreed a £40m fee with Manchester United, with the winger set to undergo a medical today.
United could also face another departure with Kobbie Mainoo submitting a request to leave the club on loan in search of regular first-team football. The Old Trafford hierarchy have insisted he remain at the club and fight for his place.
Mikel Arteta appears to have identified another one-time Spurs target as a possible defensive addition, with Piero Hincapie linked with a move to north London and a loan-with-obligation deal is said to be close.
Follow all the latest transfer news, gossip, rumours and done deals in The Independent’s live blog below
Transfer news live
- Newcastle set to land highly rated Nick Woltemade after agreeing £65m fee
- Record move for German striker could have knock-on in Alexander Isak saga with second Liverpool bid expected
- Tottenham seal deal for Xavi Simons
- Chelsea agree fee with Manchester United for winger Alejandro Garnacho
- Kobbie Mainoo requests to leave Man Utd
- Arsenal hope to secure deal for Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie
Celtic make second offer for Sebastian Tounekti
22:00 , Will CastleCeltic have made a second offer worth £4.7m for Hammarby IF winger Sebastian Tounekti, according to Sky Sports.
It’s understood the improved bid consists of an initial fee of £3.9m, with £800,000 in add-ons.
Hammarby rejected Celtic’s opening bid of £2.6m earlier this week and value the Tunisia international at around £5m.
David Moyes backs Jack Grealish to rediscover best form at Everton
21:30 , Will CastleDavid Moyes has backed real talent Jack Grealish to rediscover his best form and fire Everton to a third consecutive victory against Wolves on Saturday.
The on-loan Manchester City star provided both goals in Everton's 2-0 win against Brighton last weekend and also played an hour in the Toffees' 2-0 Carabao Cup triumph against Mansfield.
Speaking about Grealish ahead of his side's trip to Molineux, Moyes said: "He (Grealish) is a real talent and someone we're hoping can get back to the levels he's produced before.
"He's helped us already and I hope we can continue to build on it, get him fitter, stronger and used to playing again."
David Moyes backs Jack Grealish to rediscover best form at Everton
Southampton getting busy
21:00 , Will CastleSouthampton have signed midfielder Caspar Jander from Nurnberg in a £10.4m deal.
The 22-year-old has signed a four-year contract at the Championship side after starring in the 2. Bundesliga.
They’ve also signed Tom Fellows from West Brom, following up on the arrival of Finn Azaz earlier today.
Caspar 🤝 confirmed pic.twitter.com/ql2hQ1dAsL
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) August 29, 2025
Manchester United set for huge Antony loss after agreeing fee with Real Betis
20:24 , Richard JollyManchester United have agreed to sell winger Antony to Real Betis, bringing to an end the second most expensive player in their history’s unhappy time at Old Trafford, writes Richard Jolly.
United are set to make a huge loss on Antony, who cost them £85m when he followed former manager Erik ten Hag from Ajax in 2022.
But the 25-year-old’s troubled spell in Manchester is nearing an end, with the Brazilian now travelling to Spain to undergo a medical and discuss personal terms.
Man United set for huge Antony loss after agreeing fee with Real Betis
AC Milan make proposal for Manuel Akanji
20:00 , Will CastleAC Milan have made an initial verbal proposal for Manuel Akanji to Man City, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The fee is around €15m plus add-ons, with there no issues on the club-to-club side as City are open to a sale.
Milan are also talking to Akanji’s agent alongside Tottenham, who are also interested.
Kostas Tsimikas set for Roma loan
19:45 , Will CastleKostas Tsimikas is set for a loan move to AS Roma, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The deal has been agreed with Liverpool, authorising their now third-choice left-back to make arrangements for travel and medical tests.
Roma will cover his salary until June.
Brentford see bid for Maximilian Beier rebuffed
19:30 , Will CastleBorussia Dortmund have turned down a club-record bid from Brentford for Maximilian Beier, according to The Athletic.
The official proposal for the 22-year-old striker is worth in the region of £45m and Brentford are not expected to send an improved offer.
Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku has put pen to paper on his AC Milan contract ahead of a proposed move, according to Sky Sports.
It is a five-year deal that runs until 2030, and comes after Chelsea and Milan agreed a deal that could be worth more than £36m.
An announcement is expected to come soon from the Serie A side.
Vincent Kompany laments Premier League’s wealth as Newcastle pip Bayern to Nick Woltemade
19:00 , Will CastleBayern Munich boss Vincent Kompany has attributed the Premier League’s superior financial might as key to the Bundesliga’s recent exodus of top stars, with Nick Woltemade on the verge of a move to Newcastle.
When asked what has triggered this flurry of departures from the Bundesliga, former Burnley boss Kompany answered: “Money?
"The truth is I remember going with Burnley to the Premier League. All of a sudden you have TV money coming in and it's £100m for promoted teams.
“So you go from a budget of £20-25m to £120m or £130m which in the Bundesliga you would compete with the top six, top eight.”
Kompany laments Premier League wealth as Bayern miss out on Woltemade
Man Utd remain in talks over goalkeeper Senne Lammens
18:30 , Mike JonesSenne Lammens was not involved in Royal Antwerp’s squad at the weekend as Manchester United remain in talks over signing the 23-year-old goalkeeper.
But, according to the Telegraph, personal terms are yet to be agreed despite United feeling confident over a proposed £17m move.
Lammens has been on United’s radar for a while but is not viewed as a No 1 goalkeeper, with Andre Onana yet to start a game this season.
Ruben Amorim admits ‘sometimes I want to quit’ Man United job
18:16 , Richard JollyRuben Amorim has said that sometimes he wants to resign as Manchester United manager – but insisted he was just being emotional when he cast doubt on his future after the Carabao Cup exit to Grimsby Town.
The Portuguese said “something has to change” after United lost on penalties to the League Two team but claimed that in the heat of the moment he sometimes hates his players.
But Amorim claimed it was just a passionate outburst and admitted there will be plenty more as he vowed not to change.
Ruben Amorim admits ‘sometimes I want to quit’ Man United job
Chelsea monitoring Isak situtation
17:59 , Mike JonesThe Telegraph say that Chelsea are monitoring the situation with Alexander Isak and are reluctant to finalis Nicolas Jackson’s move until it is resolved.
Bayern Munich are interested in Jackson and Christopher Nkunku is going to AC Milan.
Chelsea believe that if Isak isn’t sold then Newcastle or Liverpool could come in for Jackson very late in the window and want to keep options on the table.
Nkunku’s sale means the Blues are better placed to wait out before committing to Jackson’s sale.
Sunderland make offer fo Lucumi
17:37 , Mike JonesSunderland have made a new offer to Bologna for defender Jhon Lucumi.
The Premier League side have offered £24m to the Italian club with Lucumi said to be interested and open to the move.
Enciso back at Brighton
17:25 , Mike JonesBrighton manager Fabian Hurzeler says Julio Enciso has returned to the club to continue his rehabilitation.
Enciso was expected to join French club Strasbourg for around £20m, with a deal close to being finalised last week.
Asked to clear up Enciso's situation, Hurzeler said: "It is not a big injury, so he is back in rehab training.
"It is very important that the players now are our plans for the future.
"We have an open conversation with Julio and then we will see what happens in the next days."
No Wissa in Brentford squad
17:12 , Mike JonesBrentford boss Keith Andrews does not expect Yoane Wissa to be a part of his squad for this weekend's Premier League game at Sunderland
"It's copy and paste from the other day, nothing's changed in terms of my stance," he said. "I don't see any movement behind the scenes.
"No [he won't be involved]. We focus on the group that's settled and not got ongoing issues which clearly Yoane has. The squad will be pretty much the same.
"We're in constant dialogue, I keep saying about the level of respect I have for Yoane. It's been difficult, for obvious reasons, but what we say will remain between us."
DONE DEAL! Tottenham complete signing of Xavi Simons
17:06 , Harry Latham-CoyleSpurs have got their man. Xavi Simons is officially a Tottenham player, signing for a fee of around £50m to move to London.
Tottenham called and he answered 📞 pic.twitter.com/2OVw8ALgWx
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 29, 2025
Arsenal agree personal terms with Hincapie
17:00 , Mike JonesArsenal and Bayer Leverkusen remain in talks over a Piero Hincapie.
Fabrizio Romano claims the Gunners’ preference is a loan with obligation to buy at the end of the season.
He also says that personal terms between the player and Arsenal have been agreed and all that remains is to finalise the structure of a deal.
Malacia heading out on loan?
16:48 , Mike JonesTyrell Malacia could be on his way out of Manchester United.
The 25-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan with PSV Eindhoven, has been linked with moves to Lille, Besiktas and Porto in this window.
However, Dutch publication Voetbal International, says Elche are closing in on a loan move for Malacia instead.
Bayer Leverkusen chief offers Piero Hincapie update
16:36 , Mike JonesBayer Leverkusen are yet to receive an opening bid from Arsenal for their centre-back Piero Hincapie, with the German club’s sporting director Simon Rolfes confirming they want to keep the defender this summer.
Rolfes told RTL: “We still haven’t received an official offer from any club, so he’s our player. That’s the status quo. He knows that we value him highly and would like to see him continue with us.”
Hincapie reportedly has a release clause of £52m and Arsenal are exploring whether a move for the left-sided defender would be possible. It may depend on whether Jakub Kiwior joins Porto on loan.
Spurs working on two deals
16:24 , Mike JonesTottenham are working on two deals as the transfer window deadline looms closer.
18-year-old defender Luka Vuskovic is expected to complete a loan move to Hamburg while Spurs are also in talks with Galatasaray over Yves Bissouma.
The 28-year-old is out of contract at Spurs next summer and is not in Thomas Frank's plans.
Discussions are being held with Galatasaray over a loan with an obligation to buy.
Guehi 'not likely' to leave before deadline
16:12 , Mike JonesMarc Guehi is not likely to be leaving the club in the current transfer window.
Oliver Glasner says there isn’t time to find a replacement for the club captain.
Glasner said: "From my side, he has to [still be a Crystal Palace player] because it's not possible at the moment to find a Marc Guehi replacement who can play straight in the Premier League, being a starter, being consistent.
"Getting the right replacement in now is almost impossible.”
Leeds also chasing Buonanotte
16:00 , Mike JonesLeeds United have advanced in their pursuit of Brighton attacking midfielder Facundo Buonanotte.
Brighton have been keen for the 20-year-old to go on loan to an English club to gain more experience.
Buonanotte's departure from Brighton would be a straight loan with no obligation involved in the deal.
Chelsea are also interested in him as are Borussia Dortmund.
Glasner wants more signings
15:48 , Mike JonesCrystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is confident the club will bring in new players before Monday's deadline.
He said: "We wanted to bring the players in at the beginning of pre-season, to be in a good position of negotiating and to integrate the players.
"Now having to integrate four or five players delays being successful. This is the missed opportunities to bring in the players early enough.
"Usually when you are busy at the end, you missed something at the beginning. Everywhere is the same.
"I'm still confident we'll get the right players in."
No approach for Fermin Lopez yet
15:36 , Mike JonesBarcelona are yet to receive any official approach from Chelsea for Fermin Lopez.
The 22-year-year old is of interest to Chelsea and has been on their radar for a long-time.
It is understood they are prepared to approach Barcelona if they are convinced the attacking-midfielder wants to join them.
Martinelli remaining at Arsenal
15:24 , Mike JonesMikel Arteta insists Gabriel Martinelli remains a "super-important" player to Arsenal.
When asked if the Brazilian could be sold, Arteta said: "No. I think Gabby has been a super-important player for us and he is going to remain very important.
"I'm very happy with what we have."
Chelsea in for Buonanotte
15:12 , Mike JonesDavid Ornstein of The Athletic reports that Cehslea are working on an agreement with Brighton over signing Facundo Buonanotte.
The 20-year-old spent last season on loan at Leicester City and Chelsea are said to be working on a temporary deal for him.
Alan Shearer’s problem with Alexander Isak and why it goes beyond Newcastle loyalties
15:00 , Will CastleWhen Alan Shearer left Blackburn Rovers in 1995 to secure a world-record transfer to his boyhood club, he did not have to go on strike. “I did sign a new contract the year before I left, but I knew the relationship I had with Blackburn that if I ever wanted to leave, then that was the scenario.”
He had the word of Rovers owner Jack Walker and hence when the opportunity to move to Newcastle – or Manchester United – arose, Shearer was allowed to make the jump.
Three decades on, such an amicable exit involving the Magpies and a record transfer fee has not occurred.
Alan Shearer’s problem with Alexander Isak and why it goes beyond Newcastle loyalties
'Sometimes I want to quit' says Amorim
14:48 , Mike JonesManchester United’s head coach, Ruben Amorim, has said sometimes he wants to quit his role at Old Trafford.
“If you are one way and this behaviour, you have things that are good and you have the other side of the coin," he said when asked about the comments he made about change being needed at the club.
"Sometimes I want to quit, sometimes I want to be here for 20 years.
“Sometimes I don’t want to be with my players. I need to improve on that.”
The chain of deals that could be done if Liverpool agree Alexander Isak move
14:40 , Harry Latham-CoyleIf Liverpool do now come back in for Alexander Isak, it could set off a potential chain of striker moves around the Premier League and Europe. This will obviously hinge on Newcastle’s asking price being met, but with Yoane Wissa still seemingly a target for the Tyneside club, one would expect the wantaway Brentford forward to be eyeing a move should Isak goes.
That would leave Keith Andrews in need of a replacement, with Borussia Dortmund’s Max Beier heavily connected with a move to west London. Aston Villa are also said to be interested, though.
What does Newcastle's move for Woltemade mean for Isak?
14:36 , Mike JonesIf Woltemade joins Newcastle is it good news or bad news for Alexander Isak?
Probably a bit of both.
Bringing in a striker could open the door for Newcastle to accept a second bid from Liverpool. They’ve asked for £150m for Isak but Liverpool won’t bid that much. A figure closer to £130m may be more realistic and acceptable for the Magpies to offload a player that does not want to be at the club.
On the flip side, Woltemade’s arrival means Newcastle no longer need another striker.
Woltemade can be seen as a replacement for the released Callum Wilson and if Newcastle keep Isak they have two strikers at their disposal.
The next steps may rest with Liverpool who will have to put forward another bid to test Newcastle’s resolve once Woltemade’s move is complete.
Enzo Maresca reveals how he sees Alejandro Garnacho's best fit at Chelsea
14:25 , Harry Latham-CoyleEnzo Maresca has confirmed that Alejandro Garnacho is close to joining Chelsea, and explained that he intends to use the Argentina international as a winger.
"I know he is around here,” Maresca said a little earlier. “It's quite clear his position is a winger and I see him as a winger.”
Of possible further additions, Maresca added: “You can expect anything with the transfer window open - anything can happen in and out.
"I joined the club one year ago saying I was in love with the squad and it has got better. The feeling is the same."
Newcastle set to land highly rated Nick Woltemade after agreeing £65m fee
14:25 , Mike JonesNewcastle look set to secure a striker, at last, after agreeing a £65m fee with Stuttgart for Nick Woltemade.
The North East side have put in bids for five strikers this summer with all of them rejected.
Some of those players, such as Hugo Ekitike and Benjamin Sesko, joined their Premier League rivals while others remained at their current clubs.
Woltemade will discuss personal terms with Newcastle today and has been released for Stuttgart’s training and media duties to finalise his move and complete a medical.
If he joins them, Newcastle will have broken their club record for a player which is currently the £62m paid for out of favour forward Alexander Isak.
Crystal Palace keen on Reiss Nelson
14:12 , Mike JonesSky Sports News reports that Crystal Palace are in talks with Arsenal over forward Reiss Nelson, who spent last season on loan at Fulham and has not worked his way back into Mikel Arteta’s side.
He did not feature in the Gunners’ squad for either of their opening two games of this season and is into the last two years of his contract.
Andrews wants to keep Ajer
14:00 , Mike JonesKeith Andrews wants to make sure Kristoffer Ajer will not be leaving Brentford.
The Bees rejected a bid from Wolfsburg forAjer earlier this week, with the offer understood to be worth an initial £11m, rising to a total of just under £13m (€15m).
Andrews said: "For me Kristoffer's someone I definitely don't want to lose. Whether something's happened in my time on the grass in what I've been doing today, I'm not sure.”
Chelsea and Milan reach agreement over Nkunku
13:48 , Mike JonesChristopher Nkunku looks to be on his way out of Chelsea as the Blues have agreed a deal with AC Milan.
The deal is worth €42m with a sell-on clause included according to David Ornstein of The Athletic.
Nkunku has been granted permission to travel to Italy and personal terms have already been agreed.
Sancho could remain at Man Utd
13:36 , Mike JonesJadon Sancho may not secure a move away from Old Trafford this summer.
A number of clubs are in talks with his representatives over a loan deal and he has ruled out a few options.
Roma have been pushing hard to sign him but Sancho wanted to explore other possibilities.
There is also interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia and their windows close on the September 11 and September 10 respectively.
The staggering numbers behind MLS’ record-breaking transfer window
13:24 , Mike JonesMajor League Soccer clubs paid around $336m on players this summer to smash its transfer spending record.
Son Heung-min’s move from Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur to LAFC's was the league’s headline deal as the total outlay was nearly double the previous MLS record of $188m set in 2024, and represents a 75% year-on-year increase in spending.
MLS teams broke the league's individual transfer fee record three times in 2025, most recently by LAFC's reported $26.5m deal for South Korea captain Son, followed by Atlanta United's acquisition of Emmanuel Latte Lath for $22m and FC Cincinnati's move for Kevin Denkey at $16.3m.
Arne Slot provides Liverpool transfer update amid Alexander Isak sagaer update amid Alexander Isak saga
13:12 , Richard JollyArne Slot said Liverpool will try to strengthen their squad at the end of the transfer window if the price is right and the player they want is available.
Liverpool had a £110m bid for Alexander Isak rejected at the start of August and the Sweden forward has been on strike at Newcastle as he has looked to secure a move away.
Arne Slot provides Liverpool transfer update amid Alexander Isak saga
Man Utd consider fresh move for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba
13:00 , Mike JonesManchester United are considering a fresh move for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba after the club’s 1-1 draw at Fulham on Sunday, according to The Independent’s Miguel Delaney.
The question is then how much he is really worth to United, and how much they’re willing to spend.
United now see Baleba as the potential £120m answer in the centre – although that was what £42.1m Manuel Ugarte was supposed to be, “that pin missing”.
Bamford speaks out over Leeds exit
12:48 , Mike JonesThe former Leeds United striker took to social media to talk about his exit.
Bamford wrote: "Right now, with the way it has come to an end and the way things have been handled recently it is all too raw for me to reflect on immediately.
"But in the years to come I will look back at this period of my life with nothing but joy and pride and be super happy with what I have achieved.
"I want to thank all the managers I played under but especially Marcelo Bielsa. I don't know where the club would be without the foundations he laid."
Kobbie Mainoo set to fight for Manchester United place as club reject loan request
12:36 , Mike JonesManchester United want Kobbie Mainoo to stay and fight for his place after rejecting the homegrown midfielder’s request to leave on loan.
The 20-year-old academy graduate has made 73 first-team appearances and scored seven goals for the Red Devils, including in the 2024 FA Cup final win against rivals Manchester City.
Kobbie Mainoo set to fight for Manchester United place as club reject loan request
Bamford also exits Leeds
12:24 , Mike JonesLeeds have also announced that Patrick Bamford has left the club.
The 31-year-old spent seven years at Elland Road, winning promotion twice.
But, injuries meant the striker was a peripheral figure last season, making jus 18 appearances, and was not in Daniel Farke’s plans for the new season.
He scored 60 goals in 205 appearances after joining from Middlesbrough for £7m in 2018 but leaves the club by mutual consent.
Ramazani leaves Leeds
12:12 , Mike JonesLargie Ramazani has left Leeds United to join Valencia on a season-long loan deal.
The attacker arrived at the start of last season and scored seven times in all competitions for Daniel Farke’s side enroute to the Championship title.
Solskjaer sacked by Besiktas
12:00 , Mike JonesBesiktas have announced the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after failing to qualify for the Conference League.
The Turkish giants were beaten 1-0 at home to Swiss side Lausanne-Sport in the second leg of their play-off tie in Istanbul on Thursday.
The Europa League and Conference League draws are taking place right now.
You can follow along here:
Europa League draw LIVE: Aston Villa, Celtic and Rangers to learn fate
Howe gives ‘positive’ Nick Woltemade update as Newcastle close in on new striker
11:49 , Jack RathbornEddie Howe has revealed Newcastle’s pursuit of Nick Woltemade is “positive” and progressing towards a total deal with Stuttgart.
The Magpies have been searching for a replacement for Callum Wilson, who departed on a free transfer, later joining West Ham.
While Alexander Isak remains away from the first team as he seeks a move to Liverpool.
Howe gives ‘positive’ Woltemade update as Newcastle close in on new striker
Raso joins Frankfurt
11:37 , Mike JonesHayley Raso will join Eintracht Frankfurt Women on a permanent transfer from Tottenham Hotspur Women.
The Australia joined Spurs last summer and made 16 appearances across all competitions including 13 in the WSL.
Hincapie to Arsenal is close
11:26 , Mike JonesArsenal and Bayer Leverkusen are getting close to finalising a deal for Piero Hincapie.
The Bundesliga side are ready to accept a loan with obligation to buy which is the method favoured by the Gunners.
The details of the deal are still being considered but this one is moving closer to happening.
Burnley agree deal for Luis
11:25 , Mike JonesBurnley have agreed a deal in principle with Benfica for midfielder Florentino Luis.
The deal is a loan plus an obligation to buy, with the total fee believed to be worth £21.6m.
The Clarest still have work to do to secure the Luis as personal terms need to be negotiated yet.
Fenerbahce sack Jose Mourinho after failure to qualify for Champions League
11:13 , Lawrence OstlereFenerbahce have sacked Jose Mourinho after they failed to qualify for the Champions League.
The club are only six games into the new season, having earnt four points from their first two league games.
They beat Feyenoord 6-3 on aggregate in the third round of Champions League qualifying but lost to Benfica 1-0 in the final play-off round to miss out on a place in the league phase of Europe’s most lucrative competition.
Fenerbahce sack Jose Mourinho after failure to qualify for Champions League
'Mainoo must fight for his place' says Amorim
11:00 , Mike JonesRuben Amorim says he wants Kobbie Mainoo to fight for his place at Manchester United.
"I expect a lot from Kobbie Mainoo," said Amorim, speaking to Sky Sports before their Carabao Cup defeat to Grimsby.
"People think that sometimes you need to just give, I think it's important for Kobbie to fight for his place.
"I believe a lot in Kobbie, more than everybody thinks.
"He's playing in one position, he's fighting with Bruno (Fernandes). If they can play together. We need to improve that position and you can see it against Fulham.
"I expect the best from Kobbie, the same as everybody."
Fulham close to signing Dilane Bakwa
10:48 , Mike JonesFulham are closing in on the signing of Stasbourg striker Dilane Bakwa.
There has been plenty of Premier League interes in the 23-year-old with Nottingham Forest previously having a £30m bid rejected.
Fulham will offer more than that as talks over a deal continue.
Leeds United are also reported to be interested in the forward.
Bakwa has 11 goals and 20 assists in 69 matches for Strasbourg.
Could Tottenham go for West Ham's Lucas Paqueta?
10:36 , Mike JonesTottenham would be interested in signing West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta if Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers is unavailable.
A move for Paqueta presents difficulties, however, since West Ham's troubled start to the season means it is a bad time to push to sign one of their key players.
Manager Graham Potter is instead far more concerned with bringing recruits in, as his side face up to the reality of a relegation battle.
West Ham confirm Fernandes signing
10:21 , Mike JonesWest Ham have confirmed the signing of Mateus Fernandes from Southampton.
The deal is for an initial fee £38m plus £4m in add-ons.
Fernandes said: “I'm very happy to be here. I'm very excited to play for West Ham. I think it's a big step for me.
“It's a big club, a massive club. The project, the stadium, the city, everything.
“I want to try to play football, enjoy football, not just run and try to score, but try to play good football.
“I think the most important thing is to try to give everything every day.”
Welcome to West Ham, Mateus Fernandes! 🤝@CorpayFX✍️✅ pic.twitter.com/26Dws5HOeZ
— West Ham United (@WestHam) August 29, 2025
Tottenham are hesitant to target Morgan Rogers
10:12 , Mike JonesTottenham would love to sign Morgan Rogers but some figures in the hierarchy are wary of getting into another pursuit that would end up as high-profile and without success, having previously missed out on Eberechi Eze and Morgan Gibbs-White.
Villa are so far resistant to even countenancing the idea of a sale, and some sources maintain that Tottenham would not go high enough in terms of an offer to make the club reconsider.
There has been a lingering question from sources in the market over Spurs having to "learn" to do big deals again.
The haunting Ruben Amorim image that sums up Manchester United’s deep-rooted decay
10:00 , Miguel DelaneyRuben Amorim claimed he had “nothing to say”, but, in vintage fashion for such a crisis, one picture said enough.
The haunting image of the Manchester United manager looking away during the shootout, having already been playing with a tactics board, was one thing. Well, two things… and they mount up.
But for all that to culminate in a defeat against a League Two side in Grimsby Town just adds a sense of farce to something that had already seemed alien.
The haunting Ruben Amorim image that sums up Man United’s deep-rooted decay
Eddie Howe speaks out about Nick Woltemade move
09:56 , Jack RathbornEddie Howe has revealed Newcastle’s pursuit of Nick Woltemade is progressing towards a deal with Stuttgart.
The Magpies have been searching for a replacement for Callum Wilson, who departed on a free transfer, this summer.
Alexander Isak remains away from the first team as he seeks a move to Liverpool and Anthony Gordon has a three match suspension after collecting a red card against Liverpool on Monday.
Howe said: “Things are moving and developing in a good way at the moment. Until things are done, I can't confirm anything.
“I don't think that [a debut against Leeds] will be possible due to lots of reasons I don't understand.
“The most important thing is to bring a centre forward in which we have been working on all summer, and we're getting closer.”
Man Utd hopeful over Antony deal with Real Betis
09:48 , Mike JonesManchester United have received their first offer for Antony, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Real Betis, where the Brazilian flourished on loan last term, have submitted a loan offer.
Independent journalist Peter Hall adds that United will reject a straight loan offer and instead insist on an option or obligation to buy.
Tottenham secure Simons
09:42 , Mike JonesAfter the Eberechi Eze debacle this news will be a welcome relief for Tottenham fans.
Fabrizio Romano reports that the north London side have completed their transfer for RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons.
Simons flew into London for a medical, which is reportedly done, and has allegedly signed a contract until 2030 with an additional two years optional.
Romano also says that Spurs will announce their signing shortly.
🚨💣 BREAKING: Xavi Simons to Tottenham, here we go!
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 29, 2025
All SIGNED between Spurs and RB Leipzig for fee worth €60m fixed after agreement revealed overnight.
Xavi has completed his medical and his contract is also now signed. 🔐🇳🇱
Contract until 2030 + 2 year option. pic.twitter.com/t98SrgrAh2
Second Liverpool bid for Isak expected over weekend
09:38 , Mike JonesThe Telegraph’s Mike McGrath says that movement on Alexander Isak’s potential transfer to Liverpool has happened over the last 24 hours and that the Premier League champions are preparing their second record-breaking bid which should come over the weekend.
Newcastle’s agreement over signing Nick Woltemade is probably the reason for the latest development and this saga looks set to head down to the wire.
Brentford have sights on Beier
09:37 , Mike JonesBrentford are in talks with Borussia Dortmund over a deal for Max Beier.
According to German tabloid Bild, the Premier League club have made an offer of just under €64m, with additional add-ons taking the full fee to as high as €69.5m.
The Bees are looking to bring in another striker before allowing Yoane Wissa to leave the club.
Wissa is agitating for a move to Newcastle, who remain abrest of the situation in case anything changes.
Brentford will not sell unless they bring in another forward first and with so many moving parts this situation could come down to the deadline on Monday.
Fabio Silva completing Dortmund medical
09:26 , Mike JonesWolves' Fabio Silva is now undergoing the second part of his medical with Borussia Dortmund.
His £22.8m move seems to be nearing completion but he must be registered by 3pm today if he is to be included in the Dortmund squad on Sunday against Union Berlin.
Silva flew to Germany yesterday to finalise his move and complete a medical and an announcement of his signing is expected at some point today or over the weekend.
Wolves reject improved bid for Newcastle target Jorgen Strand Larsen
09:15 , Mike JonesWolves turned down an improved bid from Newcastle for their striker Jorgen Strand Larsen.
Newcastle’s £55m bid, an increase on their opening £50m offer for the Norway international, has been similarly dismissed.
Wolves do not want to sell and are open to offer Strand Larsen a new contract if he stays. He scored twice in their 3-2 win over West Ham on Tuesday night.
With Newcastle seemingly moving on to Nick Woltemade it seems Wolves will be able to keep their frontman for the season which would be a big boon for them as they look to secure another season in the Premier League.
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe issues update on Alexander Isak saga
09:04 , Mike JonesNewcastle boss Eddie Howe has called for clarity over Alexander Isak’s future.
Newcastle’s hierarchy met with Isak on Monday and while head coach Howe insisted he was not party to what was said during those discussions, he admitted a decision was needed sooner rather than later.
Howe said: “I’ve not been party to talks on this for a long time now. I’ve been preparing the team and giving all my energy to the players that want to play for Newcastle. I think that is where my energy is best put at the moment.
“We want clarity, we want to move forward, we want the narrative to change because we’re in the start of the season now.”
Chelsea consider move for Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez
08:54 , Mike JonesChelsea are considering the possibility of signing Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez.
According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein there hasn’t been contact between the clubs yet but the Blues have touched based with Lopez’s camp.
Chelsea are exploring attacking options amid expected exits for the remaining days of the window.
Fermin’s Barcelona contract runs through to 2029. He made 46 appearances in 2024/25 scoring eight goals and creating 10 assists.
Savona close to Forest transfer
08:45 , Mike JonesNicolo Savona is flying to the UK to undergo a medical and complete his move to Nottingham Forest.
Forest agreed a fee of £11.25m for the Juventus right-back yesterday.
Savona told Sky Sports: "I'm happy and ready for this adventure, I'm sorry to leave Juventus."
Hincapie gives green light to Arsenal move
08:36 , Mike JonesPiero Hincapie has agreed personal terms with Arsenal and wants to move to the Gunners before next week’s deadline, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Romano adds that Arsenal will approach Leverkusen with a loan offer with obligation to buy - and says that Porto are leading contenders to sign Jakub Kiwior.
That would create the space Arsenal need to sign Hincapie and add another left-sided defender to the squad.
Tottenham launch Xavi Simons bid in attempt to hijack Chelsea transfer plans
08:30 , Miguel DelaneyTottenham are in talks about a move of €60m plus add-ons to RB Leipzig for Xavi Simons, as they now hope to finalise details for a signing that would represent a coup in a difficult summer.
The 22-year-old still has interest from Chelsea, and wants a contract that would put him among Spurs' highest-paid players, but is increasingly open to a move to Thomas Frank’s side.
Simons has been given permission to travel to London to sort his future, according to sources in Germany.
Tottenham launch Xavi Simons bid in attempt to hijack Chelsea transfer plans
Could Chelsea target Xavi Simons instead head to Tottenham?
08:25 , Mike JonesRB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons had been viewed as a certainty for Chelsea, but they have been intent on moving players out first, and are currently pursuing Garnacho.
That leaves an opening for Spurs who are in talks over a move for the creative midfielder.
Atalanta's Ademola Lookman and Monaco's Maghnes Akliouche have also been discussed though Simons seems likeliest at this stage.
Kobbie Mainoo requests to leave Man Utd
08:25 , Mike JonesA surprising development from Old Trafford sees Kobbie Mainoo wanting to leave the club... temporarily.
Mainoo has requested to be sent out on loan before the transfer window closes in order to secure more first team football.
Ruben Amorim has tended to prefer other midfielders in the centre ahead of Mainoo who broke into the team and impressed under former manager Erik ten Hag.
Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte and Mason Mount have all played ahead of Mainoo this season and the 20-year-old wants more guaranteed gametime.
The response from Old Trafford on Thursday evening was that he will not be sent out and that he must instead fight for a place in the team.
Chelsea agree fee for Garnacho
08:20 , Mike JonesOkay, moving on from Newcastle.
Chelsea have agreed a deal with Manchester United to sign Alejandro Garnacho for £40m.
United will also have a 10 per cent sell-on clause for the Argentina winger, who was part of Ruben Amorim’s “bomb squad” of players who were not training with the first-team squad and were omitted from their pre-season tour of the United States.
Chelsea’s interest in Garnacho dates back to the January transfer window, when he was also wanted by Napoli.
They have been linked with him throughout the summer and Christopher Nkunku’s move to AC Milan seems to have been key factor in progressing the deal.
Woltemade expected to undergo Newcastle medical today
08:15 , Mike JonesNewcastle are on the verge of signing highly-rated Stuttgart striker Nick Woltemade for a fee of £69.1m (€80m) plus add-ons.
Fabrizio Romano reports the bid has been accepted, with a medical in England expected today.
Woltemade starred in the Under-21 Euros and has been subject to interest from Bayern Munich.
After a summer of despair, Newcastle seem to have finally landed a striker - a development that could have massive ramifications on Alexander Isak to Liverpool.
What does Newcastle's move for Woltemade mean for Isak?
08:11 , Mike JonesIf Woltemade joins Newcastle is it good news or bad news for Alexander Isak?
Probably a bit of both.
Bringing in a striker could open the door for Newcastle to accept a second bid from Liverpool. They’ve asked for £150m for Isak but Liverpool won’t bid that much. A figure closer to £130m may be more realistic and acceptable for the Magpies to offload a player that does not want to be at the club.
On the flip side, Woltemade’s arrival means Newcastle no longer need another striker.
Woltemade can be seen as a replacement for the released Callum Wilson and if Newcastle keep Isak they have two strikers at their disposal.
The next steps may rest with Liverpool who will have to put forward another bid to test Newcastle’s resolve once Woltemade’s move is complete.
Newcastle close to £65m deal for Nick Woltemade – could it pave way for Alexander Isak exit?
08:05 , Richard JollyNick Woltemade will hold talks with Newcastle on Friday after Stuttgart accepted a club-record offer for the Germany striker.
Newcastle made a £65m bid for the 23-year-old and if he joins them, it could allow Alexander Isak to leave St James’ Park and move to Liverpool.
The Carabao Cup holders turned to Woltemade in their summer-long striker search, having bid for five other centre-forwards, in Hugo Ekitike, Benjamin Sesko, Joao Pedro, Yoane Wissa and Jorgen Strand Larsen.
Newcastle deal for Nick Woltemade could pave way for Alexander Isak exit
Newcastle set to land highly rated Nick Woltemade after agreeing £65m fee
08:02 , Mike JonesNewcastle look set to secure a striker, at last, after agreeing a £65m fee with Stuttgart for Nick Woltemade.
The North East side have put in bids for five strikers this summer with all of them rejected.
Some of those players, such as Hugo Ekitike and Benjamin Sesko, joined their Premier League rivals while others remained at their current clubs.
Woltemade will discuss personal terms with Newcastle today and has been released for Stuttgart’s training and media duties to finalise his move and complete a medical.
If he joins them, Newcastle will have broken their club record for a player which is currently the £62m paid for out of favour forward Alexander Isak.
Good morning!
07:57 , Mike JonesWelcome to The Independent’s live coverage of the summer transfer window.
There are plenty of stories to be cracking on with from overnight so let’s get straight into it, starting with...
The Liverpool trend that offers Arsenal newfound hope of upsetting champions
18:09 , Miguel DelaneyIn Arsenal’s analysis for this Sunday at Anfield, they have already noticed something different about Liverpool beyond new players. The champions now try the unexpected much more. It is as if the attackers have been given greater creative licence to indulge some of their individual quality. Hence the soaring beauty of Rio Ngumoha’s raucous winning goal against Newcastle United.
That can make this Liverpool team much more unpredictable, especially as stars like Mohamed Salah attempt things others couldn’t imagine. A fitting game for Eberechi Eze to make his debut, perhaps.
The offset is that it also makes Liverpool much more open, to go with Arne Slot’s front-loaded system. It’s not just that Ryan Gravenberch pinned the midfield together on his own against Newcastle. The more freedom you give players, the less proscribed any formation is going to be. So, if someone like Florian Wirtz loses the ball when trying something riskier, there’s instantly much more space in behind.
Slot has been willing to take such risks because Liverpool have the quality to punish you out of nowhere. He’s been vindicated by two results so far, despite the questions about performance. It’s almost as if the Liverpool manager is very literally trying to push the boundaries of last season; to move the lines of his formation; to try new things in order to go to new levels.
The Liverpool trend that offers Arsenal newfound hope of upsetting champions
