The summer transfer window, which opened on the 14th of June for domestic clubs and will close on the 1st of September, has kicked off with a lively start. Each team is scrambling to secure the top players and bolster their line-up for the upcoming season. But, with some players unwilling to move and others caught up in swap deals, the future of the season remains uncertain, and fans can only watch eagerly as we move further into the transfer window.
Mason Mount
As Manchester United move ever closer to their first match of the season against Leeds United, they are eager to sign Mason Mount, Chelsea’s central midfielder and member of the England national team. While Mount underperformed this season, he is still celebrated as a crucial player in Chelsea’s line-up and has long since been part of the first team.
As such, it is of little surprise that Manchester United followed up their first bid of £50 million with a second bid of £60 million. Despite Mount’s rejection of the first offer made by the Reds, after an indifferent season with Chelsea and only a few months left of his contract, it might be time for a change.
Declan Rice
West Ham midfielder, Declan Rice, has found himself caught between two teams as both Manchester City and Arsenal have been fighting to secure him for themselves. After losing Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona, Manchester City are eager to restrengthen their midfield with the addition of Rice and Chelsea player, Mateo Kovacic.
However, they are not alone in their eagerness. Arsenal have made two bids for the midfielder and are planning a third. The second bid, which totaled £95 million was rejected by West Ham earlier this week. After a successful season and his second title as Hammer of the Year, Rice’s price tag is understandable, but it remains to be seen if he’ll make the leap to a new team or if he’s happy as a Hammer.
Harry Kane
Harry Kane, celebrated England captain and key Tottenham striker, has also found himself at the center of a transfer conflict between his current club and Manchester United. While Tottenham doesn’t want to lose an essential player to a Premier League rival, Kane is reportedly desperate to transfer to a new team.
Tottenham valued Kane at £100 million, making him one of the most expensive English players in the league. As such, United’s offer of £80 million fell short of Tottenham’s expectations, leaving the negotiations in a stalemate unless United can close that £20 million gap.
Manchester United has urged Kane to submit his own transfer request or to write a statement to the team’s manager, Ange Postecoglou, expressing his desire to move. Kane is known for his tactical expertise, so United fans can only wait to see if they can win the striker’s favor.
Lottoland sportsbook has set the odds on Tottenham’s match against Brentford at 5/4 for Tottenham to win, while Brentford has been given the odds of 21/10 to secure a victory, but that could all change if Kane transfers to United.
Final Thoughts
With over two months left in the transfer window the set-up for next season remains unknown. The current deals could fall through or be secured within a matter of days. However, what remains certain is that the league is comprised of exceptional players, each of whom can dramatically alter the dynamic of their chosen team.
To further complicate matters, the international summer transfer window will open on the 1st of July. This will introduce both new players and new clubs to the bidding war. Be sure to keep track of transfer news so you can make your own predictions about the upcoming season.
