Transfer round-up August 4: Arsenal submit their first bid for David Raya, Axel Disasi joins Chelsea FC

During the exciting 2023 summer transfer window, foobtall enthusiasts around the globe are experiencing a mix of emotions due to clubs revealing unexpected and intriguing updates.

David Raya Martin in a file photo; Credit: Twitter@daviidraya1
By Animesh | Aug 5, 2023 | 3 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

During the exciting 2023 summer transfer window, foobtall enthusiasts around the globe are experiencing a mix of emotions due to clubs revealing unexpected and intriguing updates. These include notable player exits and arrivals, creating an eventful and sentimental time for supporters. Amidst the flurry of recent information, one specific announcement has emerged as a standout moment, capturing the focus of the entire football world. Juventus and Romelu Lukaku reportedly agreed on personal terms and a potential swap with Chelsea’s Dusan Vlahovic. Juventus aims to acquire Lukaku and offers Vlahovic plus a reported amount of €40m. Lukaku’s lackluster second Chelsea stint led to his potential departure, with Mauricio Pochettino seeking his transfer. Despite preferring Inter Milan, Juventus stepped in as Inter couldn’t meet Chelsea’s price. Negotiations continue, awaiting Chelsea’s agreement to the swap.

As per reports, the Ousmane Dembele transfer saga is concluding as the 26-year-old heads to Paris Saint-Germain for around €50m, benefiting Dembele and his agent. Barcelona will use a reported amount of €20m to address Financial Fair Play concerns and reinvest, possibly in right-back Joao Cancelo. Despite Dembele’s departure, the sale’s timing facilitates new signings’ registration before LaLiga starts. Chelsea reporetedly approaches a £25m deal for Brighton goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, succeeding Edouard Mendy’s move to Al-Ahli. Sanchez, 25, competes with Kepa Arrizabalaga, supported by Chelsea’s goalkeeping coach Ben Roberts, who previously worked with him at Brighton. Sanchez, Brighton’s main goalkeeper for nearly two years, earned two Spain caps in friendlies.

Read more- Transfer round-up August 3: Juventus closing in on Romelu Lukaku, PSG inching closer to Ousmane Dembele

Arsenal submit their first bid for David Raya

Arsenal’s reported initial bid of £20 million for Brentford goalkeeper David Raya is expected to be rejected. While the offer fell slightly below Brentford’s desired amount, negotiations persist as both sides aim to finalize the deal. Although Bayern Munich also pursued Raya, he prefers joining Arsenal, reuniting with former Brentford goalie coach Inaki Cana. Arsenal intends for Raya, with a year left on his contract, to compete with current top choice Aaron Ramsdale. Raya’s potential transfer could hinge on Matt Turner, Ramsdale’s backup, departing. Nottingham Forest is in talks to acquire Turner, as part of their goalkeeping additions. Arsenal faces Manchester City in the Community Shield before their Premier League opener against Forest.

Axel Disasi joins Chelsea FC

Chelsea has signed French defender Axel Disasi from Monaco on a six-year deal for a reported amount of £38.6 million ($49 million). The 25-year-old was recruited due to Wesley Fofana’s injury. Disasi, with 130 Ligue 1 appearances and four national caps, aims to contribute to the club’s success. The move is part of manager Mauricio Pochettino’s squad overhaul after a tough Premier League season. Disasi joins other summer additions like Nkunku, Jackson, Ugochukwu, Gabriel, and Moreira. Chelsea is also reportedly close to signing goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and linked to Brighton’s midfielder Moises Caicedo. Their season starts against Liverpool on August 13.

Al-Ahli reach verbal agreement with Franck Kessie

Recent reports suggests that Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessie is nearing a move to Saudi Pro League’s Al Ahli. Kessie, an Ivory Coast international, arrived at Barca from AC Milan last summer but had limited opportunities despite pivotal moments like a winning goal against Real Madrid. Earlier, Tottenham Hotspur discussed Kessie and teammate Clement Lenglet. However, Kessie is now set to join Al Ahli, disappointing Spurs once more. Although Barcelona initially believed Kessie preferred staying in Europe, they are now negotiating a reported €15m (£13m) deal with Al Ahli. The Saudi club has been active this window, signing players like Mendy, Firmino, Mahrez, and Saint-Maximin.

More football news:

Transfer round-up August 3: Juventus closing in on Romelu Lukaku, PSG inching closer to Ousmane Dembele

Transfer round-up August 2: Xavi confirms Ousmane Dembele’s intention to join PSG, Real Sociedad sign Andre Silva

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