Mbappe could leave PSG, Arteta under pressure – Monday’s biggest stories
Robin Bairner
- 23 Aug 2021 16:26 CDT
- 4 min read
Monday may not have been a busy day in terms of done deals, but as clubs recovered from their weekend matches, they were more concerned about setting themselves up for what is to come in the future.
There is barely a week left in the summer transfer window, which means that matters are bound to become fraught, with last-minute deals and exchanges sought as clubs seek to get rid of their undesirable players, add to their ranks and tie down their most important stars.
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Mbappe uncertainty
PSG are certainly trying to do the latter with Kylian Mbappe, although news broke that there is an outside chance that the club may yet accept a late approach in the window from Real Madrid.
Pertinently, this news came from a source reliable when it comes to the Parisians’ activity, unlike more speculative reports from Spain previously.
It was reported that a mystery Premier League club also made a bid for the forward.
Arteta insecurity
Arsenal, meanwhile, have already spent upwards of £130 million in the summer transfer window but do not have a point to show for it. The pressure is mounting on manager Mikel Arteta, who was confronted by angry fans following the 2-0 loss to Chelsea on Sunday.
While he is odds on to become the first manager sacked this season, reports suggest he will be given at least until the October international break to prove himself.
Zouma nears Chelsea exit
Significant movement is set to come at Chelsea in the days ahead. With West Ham reportedly having secured a verbal agreement to sign Blues defender Kurt Zouma, the Stamford Bridge side are finally closing in on Sevilla’s Jules Kounde.
However, a couple more moves may be required before that particular deal is done and dusted.
Lyon land €6m Shaqiri
Perhaps the highest profile completed deal of the day was Lyon signing Liverpool attacker Xherdan Shaqiri for just €6m, plus a potential for another €5m in bonuses.
While the Reds haven’t received a huge windfall from the deal, it has opened up further possibilities for them in the closing week of the market.
Barca relief
Barcelona may get some financial relief in the days ahead with Brighton closing in on a deal to sign former youth team star Marc Cucurella from Getafe.
With the Seagulls poised to land the Spain midfielder for €18m, the Catalans are set to get a welcome cut of the deal.
