Chicago Fire FC signed Finland international midfielder Robin Lod on a contract through June 2028, adding a veteran player with a strong goal-scoring record and international experience to bolster their squad for the upcoming seasons.
Thomas Frank was surprised Tottenham managed to acquire Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich, seeing him as a key addition to fill a crucial role in their midfield with his defensive and distribution skills, and highlighted the strategic value of the loan deal with an option to buy, emphasizing his experience and immediate performance potential.
Manchester City has signed Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan on a five-year deal, recognizing his all-round midfield capabilities and recent accolade as Serie A’s Best Midfielder for 2024/25. Reijnders, who has international experience with the Netherlands, expressed enthusiasm about joining City and the Premier League, aiming to contribute to the club's continued success.
Marco Verratti, considered one of the best midfielders of his era, has joined the Qatari Sports League at the age of 30. While he achieved success at Paris Saint-Germain, winning nine domestic league titles, his performances in the Champions League knockout phase were inconsistent. Despite praise from football legends like Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta, Verratti's career has been hindered by injuries and limited international success. His move to Qatar raises questions about his potential and whether he will ever fulfill his true potential in one of the top leagues.
Manchester City is nearing the completion of a €55 million deal for Wolves midfielder Matheus Nunes, with a verbal agreement in place. Additionally, the two clubs have agreed on a loan move for City's Tommy Doyle, with Wolves having the option of a permanent £5 million transfer. Despite Wolves manager Gary O'Neil's previous expectation that Nunes would stay, an agreement has been reached between the clubs. City has been seeking midfield reinforcements since Kevin De Bruyne's injury, and Nunes, a £38 million signing from Sporting in 2022, is expected to finalize the move before the transfer deadline.
Liverpool has signed Wataru Endo from Stuttgart for approximately €19m. The 30-year-old Japan captain has agreed to a four-year contract, pending a work permit and international clearance. Endo's versatility as a defensive midfielder, central defender, and right-back, along with his experience and work ethic, make him a valuable addition to Liverpool's squad, according to manager Jurgen Klopp.
Liverpool's second transfer offer of around £41 million for Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia has been rejected, with Southampton holding out for a fee closer to £50 million. Liverpool is considering alternative options, including Andre at Fluminense. The club has been actively refreshing their midfield following the departures of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, James Milner, and Naby Keita. Lavia, who joined Southampton from Manchester City last summer, has attracted interest from Chelsea in the past.
FC Barcelona has announced the signing of defensive midfielder Oriol Romeu from Girona, making him their third major signing of the summer. Romeu, who previously played for Barcelona's La Masia academy and made two appearances for the first team, has returned to the club after successful stints at Southampton and Girona. The 31-year-old has signed a three-year contract with Barcelona, and his buyout clause is set at €400 million ($449 million). Romeu's arrival provides depth and experience to Barcelona's midfield, and it remains to be seen how he will fit into coach Xavi Hernandez's plans.
Mason Mount reveals that he left Chelsea for Manchester United after it became clear that he wasn't part of Chelsea's plans. The midfielder, who signed a five-year deal with the option of a further year, expressed his excitement to join a "massive club" and play under United manager Erik ten Hag. Mount sees himself as a No 8 and aims to contribute both offensively and defensively. He will wear the No 7 shirt at United, which has been vacant since Cristiano Ronaldo's departure.
Liverpool has signed Hungarian midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig on a five-year deal after triggering his £60 million release clause. The 22-year-old is seen as the next addition to Liverpool's midfield and brings versatility and creativity to the team. Szoboszlai had attracted interest from Newcastle United but ultimately chose Liverpool. He made 48 appearances for Leipzig last season, scoring 10 goals, and has 32 caps for Hungary.
Declan Rice's potential transfer to Arsenal would be the most significant addition to the club in a generation, surpassing even the signing of Mesut Ozil. The highly coveted midfielder, who has attracted interest from top clubs in England and Europe, would bring leadership, composure, and versatility to the Emirates Stadium. At just 24 years old, Rice has already proven himself as a top-tier defensive midfielder with a rapidly improving on-ball game. His ability to drive beyond opponents and his football intelligence make him a valuable asset for any team. Arsenal's pursuit of Rice showcases their ambition to compete with the elite clubs and signifies a new era for the club.
Barcelona has signed midfielder Ilkay Gundogan from Manchester City on a two-year deal with the option for a third year. The German international, who is out of contract with City at the end of the month, becomes Barca's first signing of the summer. Gundogan will add depth and goals to midfield after they missed out on Lionel Messi, who has opted to join Inter Miami CF.
Real Madrid has officially confirmed the signing of 19-year-old midfielder Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund on a six-year deal. The transfer fee is reported to be €103 million, making it one of the highest-value transfers in the history of both clubs. Bellingham has established himself as a key player for Dortmund and England, and is known for his well-rounded playing profile, including his ability to make progressive passes, tackles, interceptions, and attacking contributions. Madrid will present Bellingham at a press conference on Thursday.
Real Madrid has reached an agreement to pay Borussia Dortmund over €100million for midfielder Jude Bellingham. The deal is not yet signed, but Bellingham is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days. Liverpool and Manchester City were among those interested in the 19-year-old, but Bellingham expressed his eagerness to be part of a project including young players with enormous potential. Dortmund wanted €150million, which Real Madrid could not afford, but the talks have been on very good terms. Bellingham will be the long-term replacement for Luka Modric or Toni Kroos, with both now in the twilight of their careers.
Midfielder Evander has been the driving force behind the Portland Timbers' recent three-game winning streak, contributing five goals (three goals, two assists) in three games and helping the team climb back into the playoff picture in the MLS.