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Transfer News Roundup: August 23, 2024
Arsenal Secure Mikel Merino Transfer
Arsenal have officially completed the signing of Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad for €32 million plus €5 million in add-ons. The deal includes favorable payment terms, with Merino signing a contract until June 2028, with an option to extend until 2029. The Gunners have been closing in on this transfer since late July, and Merino had his heart set on joining Arsenal. The deal is now finalized.
Joao Felix Returns to Chelsea
Joao Felix has returned to Chelsea on a permanent deal from Atlético Madrid. The agreement, which had been hinted at in connection with Conor Gallagher’s story, has now been confirmed. Felix has already completed his medical tests and signed a six-year contract that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until June 2030, with an option to extend until 2031.
Sergi Roberto Joins Como in Serie A
After leaving Barcelona, Sergi Roberto has agreed to join Serie A side Como. The former Barça captain has signed a two-year contract with an option for an additional season. Medical tests are scheduled, and Como, strongly influenced by Cesc Fábregas, who pushed for the signing, are also close to completing two more transfers.
Paulo Dybala Commits to AS Roma
Paulo Dybala has rejected a final offer from Saudi club Al Qadsiah, which included an €80 million salary package over three years. The Argentine forward informed the club of his decision tonight, reaffirming his commitment to AS Roma and the club’s fans. Dybala’s love for Roma has kept him in the Italian capital.
Ilkay Gündogan Returns to Manchester City
Ilkay Gündogan is heading back to Manchester City after reaching an agreement with the club. Despite Barcelona’s desire to keep him, the German midfielder will return to City on a free transfer, with a deal in place until June 2025, including an option for an additional season. Pep Guardiola personally approved Gündogan’s return.
Manchester United Sign Malian Talent Sekou Koné
Manchester United have agreed on a deal to sign Sekou Koné, a highly-rated 2006-born Malian midfielder from Guidars FC. Koné was pursued by several clubs this summer, but United have secured the deal, considering him a top talent for the future, similar to their previous acquisition of Chido Obi Martin.
Nico Páz to Join Como from Real Madrid
Nico Páz is set to join Serie A side Como from Real Madrid in a permanent transfer. The deal is valued at €6 million, with Real Madrid retaining a 50% sell-on clause and a buy-back option. Páz will travel to Italy today to complete the move.
Thibaut Courtois Steps Back from Belgian National Team
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has announced that he will not return to the Belgian national team under the current manager. Courtois cited a lack of confidence in the coach, acknowledging his share of responsibility but emphasizing that his presence would not be conducive to a positive atmosphere moving forward.
AC Milan’s Rafa Leão Staying
AC Milan CEO Furlani has confirmed that Rafa Leão will not be leaving the club this summer, quashing any speculation about a potential move to Barcelona. Furlani assured fans that Leão is committed to staying at Milan, dismissing any chance of the Portuguese forward asking to leave.
Fulham Sign Sander Berge from Burnley
Fulham have officially signed Sander Berge from Burnley for a £20 million fixed fee, with an additional £5 million in potential add-ons. Berge expressed his excitement about joining Fulham, a team he has long admired both in the Championship and Premier League.
Pierre Kalulu Joins Juventus on Loan
Pierre Kalulu is set to join Juventus on loan from AC Milan after further talks earlier today. The deal includes a €3-4 million loan fee, a €14 million buy option clause (not mandatory), and €3 million in add-ons. Additionally, a 10% sell-on clause has been confirmed if the deal becomes permanent in 2025.