Arsenal make Morgan Rogers their number one target
Arsenal have identified Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers as their primary transfer target this summer. The 23-year-old Englishman enjoyed a breakout season at Villa Park, catching the eye with his combination of physicality, technical ability, and goal threat from midfield.
Rogers joined Aston Villa from Middlesbrough in January 2024 and quickly established himself as a key player under Unai Emery. His performances in the Premier League and Champions League have attracted attention from several top clubs, but Arsenal appear to be leading the race.
The Gunners are looking to strengthen their midfield options ahead of a season where they hope to finally overtake Manchester City in the title race. Rogers’ ability to play as both a number eight and a number ten makes him an ideal fit for Mikel Arteta’s system.
Why Arsenal want Rogers
Rogers offers something different to Arsenal’s current midfield options. At 6ft 2in, he brings a physical presence that the Gunners sometimes lack in the middle of the park. His direct running style and eye for goal — he scored eight Premier League goals last season — would add a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack.
His versatility is another major plus. Rogers can operate in multiple positions across the midfield and forward line, giving Arteta tactical flexibility. With Arsenal competing on multiple fronts next season, including the Champions League, squad depth will be crucial.
Aston Villa are unlikely to let Rogers go cheaply. The midfielder is under contract until 2028, and Villa have shown in recent windows that they will demand top dollar for their best players. Any deal could cost Arsenal upwards of £60 million.
Arsenal also closing in on Illan Meslier
In separate transfer news, Arsenal are set to complete the signing of goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer. The French shot-stopper left Leeds United at the end of his contract and will provide competition for David Raya between the posts.
Meslier, 26, made over 150 appearances for Leeds during his time at Elland Road. He was part of the squad that won promotion back to the Premier League and has extensive top-flight experience. The move represents excellent business for Arsenal, who get a proven Premier League goalkeeper without paying a transfer fee.
Liverpool eye Mexico teenager
Liverpool are reportedly monitoring a young Mexican talent as they look to bolster their squad for the future. The Reds have been active in identifying promising young players from around the world, and this latest link suggests their scouting network remains one of the best in the game.
Arne Slot’s side are building for the long term while also competing at the highest level. Adding a talented teenager to their development squad would fit the club’s strategy of nurturing young talent into first-team players.
Everton target Djed Spence
Everton are eyeing a move for England defender Djed Spence as they look to strengthen their backline. Spence, who has experience in the Premier League from his time at Tottenham and various loan spells, would add pace and attacking threat from the right-back position.
The Toffees have been busy this summer already, and adding Spence would give them more options in defence. His ability to get forward and deliver crosses could be a valuable asset for Everton’s attacking play.
Fulham appoint Arbeloa as new manager
In managerial news, Fulham have appointed former Real Madrid and Liverpool defender Alvaro Arbeloa as their new head coach on a three-year contract. The Spaniard succeeds Marco Silva, who left Craven Cottage to take charge of Benfica.
Arbeloa, who won the World Cup with Spain in 2010, has been coaching in Real Madrid’s academy system since retiring as a player. This will be his first senior managerial role, and he faces the challenge of building on the solid foundations laid by Silva.
What to watch
The transfer window is heating up as clubs prepare for the new Premier League season. Arsenal’s pursuit of Morgan Rogers could be one of the sagas of the summer, with Aston Villa unlikely to make it easy for the Gunners to prise away their star midfielder.
Keep an eye on how quickly Arsenal move for Meslier — with the goalkeeper available on a free transfer, this deal could be wrapped up soon. The Rogers situation may drag on longer, with Villa in a strong negotiating position.
Liverpool’s interest in young talent and Everton’s defensive recruitment suggest both clubs are planning carefully for the season ahead. The Premier League’s competitive nature means every club needs to get their summer business right.
