Chelsea plan Rogers deal

Chelsea are focusing on landing Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers as they look to continue their summer spending.

They may be able to offer a deal for Nicolas Jackson in return, with Unai Emery a fan after their time at Villarreal together. 

The Sun claims: “Chelsea have made Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers their top target for the remainder of the transfer window.

“Villa boss Unai Emery is also keen on being reunited with Blues striker Nicolas Jackson after working with him at Villarreal.

“New world champions Chelsea have already spent more than £130 million on adding Joao Pedro, Liam Delap and Jamie Gittens to their array of forward options.

“But they are ready to push the boat out to bring in England star Rogers, who is valued at £80m or more.

“A partial-swap deal involving Jackson is not on the cards because financial rules make separate transfers more attractive.”

Liverpool target Salford City star

Liverpool could sign Salford City forward Will Wright after the teenager broke into the first team at the League Two side.

The 17-year-old has also been linked with a host of other Premier League sides, including Liverpool’s title rivals Arsenal.

The Mirror states: “Liverpool are looking to land the signing of Salford City teenager Will Wright, who has been hugely impressive after enjoying a swift rise at Moor Lane.

“The League Two outfit look to have unearthed a gem after seeing him excel with the club’s youth ranks, which eventually saw him make four appearances for the first team last season, one coming in the FA Cup loss at Manchester City. Salford are now co-owned by Gary Neville and David Beckham, but the duo are set to lose their young star.

“Arsenal, Brentford, Leicester City and Burnley have monitored the player.”

Sunderland keen on Xhaka

Sunderland could sign former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen, according to The Athletic.

The 32-year-old would add Premier League experience to the newly promoted Black Cats, but is also wanted by Saudi Pro League sides.

The website writes: “Sunderland hold an interest in signing Granit Xhaka from Bayer Leverkusen.

“The 32-year-old former Arsenal midfielder has played a key role for Leverkusen across his two seasons at the Bundesliga side, making 99 appearances and helping the club to their first Bundesliga title and DFB-Pokal in 2023/24.

“Xhaka’s Leverkusen contract runs through to 2028 and he is also the subject of interest from Saudi Arabia.”

Newcastle still want Ekitike

Newcastle remain keen to sign Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike and will not be distracted by Liverpool’s interest in Alexander Isak.

Their first bid for the Frenchman was turned down, but they will return with an offer in excess of their bid of £65 million.

The Telegraph reports: “Newcastle United are pushing ahead with their attempt to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike in the hope of pairing him with Alexander Isak next season.

“In a strong response to Liverpool’s unwanted approach for Isak on Tuesday, Newcastle are determined to deliver a power play of their own and have enjoyed a productive round of talks regarding the possible purchase of Ekitike in the last 24 hours.

“Newcastle have had an opening bid of £65m rejected but are expected to return with an improved offer in the hope of finalising the transfer of one of their long-term targets.

“Liverpool, though, have also made contact with the Bundesliga club and although they are yet to submit a formal offer for the 23-year-old, there is strong competition for his signature.”