West Ham 'approach' European club over defender as Liverpool 'identify' midfield target

Less than two weeks remain until the new Premier League season kicks off, and clubs are now putting the final touches on their preparations for the new campaign. With the last pre-season friendlies taking place this weekend, managers will likely decide upon their starting XIs ahead of a crucial week of match-focused training next week.

Though, we could well see more deals take place over the next week or so with clubs scrambling to add more quality ahead of the big kick off. Here we round up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding the Premier League.

Henrique ‘interest’

West Ham are said to be interested in a deal for left-back Caio Henrique ahead of the new season. According to Brazilian publication UOL, the Hammers and Nottingham Forest have both enquired about the 27-year-old who is just returning from a serious knee injury.

The fee involved is unclear, but the Hammers will be hoping to get a friendly price based on the defender’s recent injury issues. West Ham currently have Emerson Palmieri at left-back, while Aaron Cresswell is the likely cover option.

Liverpool ‘identify’ target

Liverpool are said to be chasing Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi this month. According to reports, the Reds will start their transfer business with a signing in the heart of midfield, searching for a ball-playing holding midfielder.

Zubimendi fits the ball, and The Times’ Paul Joyce and others have reported that he could be an option for Liverpool. Crucially, though, the Euro 2024 winner who came on and impressed in the final after Rodri’s injury, has a release clause as high as £54million, while Real Sociedad already face losing Mikel Merino to Arsenal, likely meaning they will stand firm on the release clause.

Digne ‘rejects’ move

Aston Villa star Lucas Digne is said to have attracted attention from Turkey, with Galatasaray boss Jose Mourinho taking a liking to the left-back. But according to Football Transfers, Digne has actually rejected the chance to join the Turkish giants as he looks to play Champions League football with Villa this season.

The report claims Galatasary approached Villa with a loan deal with a view to making the deal permanent and after the club spoke to Digne, he made it clear that he is not interested in leaving the Midlands club this summer.