European Transfer Deadline Day Preview: Key Moves to Watch
With the European transfer window closing on Friday, several high-profile moves could still materialize. Here are some of the names to watch:
Forward: Victor Osimhen, Napoli
Victor Osimhen is poised to be one of the biggest stories of deadline day with potential bids from Saudi Arabia and Chelsea. Napoli has already secured his replacement, Romelu Lukaku, and a late-stage offer from an unexpected suitor could finalize the deal. Arsenal, just a clinical number nine away from challenging Manchester City in the Premier League, might make a last-minute move for Osimhen, who would be a significant addition to any club he joins.
Midfielder: Manuel Ugarte, Paris Saint-Germain
With Scott McTominay moving to Napoli, Manuel Ugarte appears set to join Manchester United. If the deal goes through, the Red Devils will finally address their defensive midfield issue, boosting Erik ten Hag's expectations. Ugarte is a top-tier midfielder who will contribute significantly to United's squad depth following a busy summer.
Goalkeeper: Matt Turner, Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest rejected a loan offer for American goalkeeper Matt Turner, preferring a permanent sale, according to ESPN. While Turner's prospects as a Premier League starter are uncertain, he could easily become a first-choice keeper elsewhere. Sitting on the bench would harm his international prospects ahead of the 2026 World Cup, so he'll likely seek a permanent home soon.
Forward: Raheem Sterling, Chelsea
Raheem Sterling has been marginalized in Chelsea's bloated squad and saw limited playing time last season. With even less opportunity on the horizon, a change is needed. His high salary complicates matters, but the 29-year-old still holds value for the right club. Sterling's ability to find space and create chances makes him a useful asset, although perhaps not at Chelsea anymore.
Forward: Jadon Sancho, Manchester United
Another England winger on the fringes at his club, Jadon Sancho could be involved in a swap deal with Sterling. Both Chelsea and Manchester United have excluded the players from their plans, and a trade could benefit both sides. United needs additional pace on the left, while Sancho's creativity and ball control would be valued at Chelsea. Financial considerations could be a hurdle, but where there's a will, there's a way.
Forward: Ivan Toney, Brentford
Ivan Toney is reportedly weighing options between Saudi Arabia and Chelsea, but the outcome is unclear. Chelsea has found success with Nicolas Jackson, but adding another forward would further congest their squad. Toney is a solid player who could improve any team, but his time at Brentford seems to be coming to an end.
Defender: Kieran Trippier, Newcastle United
Kieran Trippier has been linked with a reunion with Sean Dyche at Everton, but he may be the least likely to leave among the players mentioned. Newcastle aims to rejuvenate its defense, but there are good reasons for Trippier to remain and regain his starting spot after a slow start to the season.
Forward: Santiago Jimenez, Feyenoord
Nottingham Forest is pursuing Feyenoord's Santiago Jimenez. Feyenoord has signed Julian Carranza as backup, but insists they want to keep Jimenez. Forest, known for spending, might present an offer too good to refuse. Chris Wood has been the main striker, but Forest seeks additional options.
Defender: Ben Chilwell, Chelsea
Chelsea's crowded squad could lead to Ben Chilwell's departure. Enzo Maresca has indicated that Chilwell doesn't fit his preferred style of play, and durability issues have plagued the left-back. Although no serious suitors have emerged, a move away from Stamford Bridge before the window closes remains possible.