Arsenal have been given fresh encouragement in their pursuit of Julian Alvarez, with Atletico Madrid reportedly changing their stance and now willing to sell the striker, according to the Daily Express.
The Argentina international is the leading transfer story in Saturday’s newspapers, with Atletico Madrid said to have softened their previous position over a possible move to the Gunners. The report does not state the fee being sought or suggest that an agreement has been reached.
Elsewhere, Brighton have rejected a second offer from Liverpool for winger Yankuba Minteh, the Daily Mirror reports. Brighton are understood to be insisting on £70m for the player, leaving Liverpool facing a significant valuation if they are to continue their interest.
Chelsea are also working to reduce the size of their squad before the summer transfer window closes, according to the Daily Mail. New manager Xabi Alonso is reportedly only interested in having up to five centre-backs available for the coming season.
Manchester United are continuing to work to complete new signings as the new Premier League season gets under way, says the Daily Star.
One of the Premier League’s record-breakers, Max Dowman, has received his GCSE results and is leaving school to begin his first season as a full-time professional footballer, the Daily Mail reports.
In political and sporting news, Prime Minister Andy Burnham is exploring a bid for the United Kingdom to host the men’s World Cup. The Independent says the proposal is being considered alongside plans for a Northern Olympics.
Former Liverpool hero Mohamed Salah has met inspirational Liverpool fan Isaac Kearney again in Turkey, in what the Daily Mirror describes as a heartwarming reunion.
Rangers are considering Lens striker Rayan Fofana as a short-term replacement for Youssef Chermiti, who is unavailable because of injury, according to the Scottish Sun.
Celtic have suffered a major injury setback, with Alistair Johnston facing an extended period on the sidelines. The Scottish Sun reports that the problem has left manager Martin O’Neill considering several options at right-back during the final two weeks of the transfer window.
At Dundee United, manager Jim Goodwin has confirmed that Will Ferry will miss the Dundee derby. However, Goodwin has indicated that Ferry is not about to leave Tannadice, despite the speculation that has surrounded the United left-back throughout the summer, the Scottish Sun says.
The newspaper reports also include developments from tennis. Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the US Open while continuing his recovery from a right knee injury, according to the Daily Express.
Jack Draper will also miss the US Open because of a long-term bone-bruising injury. The Independent reports that the problem has disrupted the last 18 months of the British player’s career.