Football Transfer News: Gabriel Jesus to Barcelona, Gakpo Linked to Man City
Cody Gakpo Transfer Talks and Liverpool Roster Shifts
The potential departure of Gakpo has drawn sharp criticism from pundits. According to Sky Sports, former Liverpool player Gary Neville called the possible exit “bizarre” while also questioning the club’s lack of full-back signings following a draw against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, August 29, 2026. Gakpo had been one of the standout performers in that fixture, whereas full-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez struggled on the pitch.
Liverpool are simultaneously working on additions to bolster their attacking options before the window closes. Sky Sports reported that Bradley Barcola has been undergoing a medical with Liverpool after a deal worth £106m rising to £123m was finalized with Paris Saint-Germain. Additionally, Liverpool have targeted Yankuba Minteh and Ismaila Sarr as they search for another new winger. Crystal Palace have insisted that Sarr is not for sale despite the player’s desire to leave before the deadline.
Premier League Deadline Deals and Squad Moves
Across the Premier League, clubs are finalizing squads with the transfer deadline approaching. According to Sky Sports, Arsenal have agreed to a club-record sale of Gabriel Martinelli to Al Hilal, while Gabriel Jesus is set to join Barcelona for £8.6m. Arsenal are also exploring a potential loan move for Marcus Rashford as a replacement for Martinelli, while Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez returned to group training on Sunday, August 30, 2026, as a deadline for his future passed.
Aston Villa have agreed in principle to a £30m package with Southampton for centre-back Taylor Harwood-Bellis, alongside a £47m move for PSG’s Ibrahim Mbaye, who has been completing his medical. Villa are also preparing to offer Ian Maatsen a new contract after Manchester United explored his availability. Meanwhile, Tottenham and Everton are locked in advanced talks over separate deals for Iliman Ndiaye and Richarlison, valued at £60m and £35m respectively, with Everton also discussing a potential deal with Manchester City for Jack Grealish.