Premier League clubs are in a desperate race against the clock to finalize their squads before the summer transfer window officially shuts on Tuesday, September 1, at 23:00 BST. With just hours remaining, several high-profile deals—including potential blockbuster moves for Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández, and Cody Gakpo—still hang in the balance.

Here are the biggest transfer storylines to monitor as deadline day approaches:

The Battle for Julián Álvarez

The future of Atlético Madrid’s Argentine forward Julián Álvarez remains one of the window’s most intense sagas. Both Arsenal and Barcelona are circling, though Atlético has repeatedly refused to negotiate with the Catalan giants.

The Spanish club has placed a staggering €150 million (£128 million) valuation on the 26-year-old, issuing a final deadline for Arsenal to submit an acceptable bid. Speculation intensified after Álvarez missed recent training sessions and was notably left out of Atlético’s squad for their weekend clash against Sevilla, signaling an imminent departure.

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Manchester City Eyes Enzo Fernández

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández is increasingly linked with a shock move to reigning champions Manchester City. Fernández was absent from Chelsea’s recent victory over Brighton, heavily fueling rumors of a departure.

Should City proceed, the deal would likely shatter their club-record transfer fee, eclipsing the £116 million they spent on Elliot Anderson earlier this summer. To fill the potential void, Chelsea is reportedly preparing a move for Monaco and Senegal international Lamine Camara, who would mark the Blues’ 13th incoming signing of a frantic summer window.

Gakpo to City or Spurs?

Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo is attracting serious attention from Manchester City, who have reportedly opened negotiations with an offer hovering around £85 million. Tottenham Hotspur also remains in the mix, though the Netherlands international is understood to prefer a switch to the Etihad Stadium.

Liverpool is unwilling to sanction Gakpo’s departure without first securing attacking reinforcements. The Reds are exploring moves for Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola and Crystal Palace’s Ismaïla Sarr, despite Palace initially rejecting their approach for the latter.

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Other Key Deals Across the League

  • Richarlison & Ndiaye Swap: Everton and Tottenham are in advanced talks over a potential swap deal involving Iliman Ndiaye and Richarlison. While Ndiaye’s move to Spurs is largely agreed upon, Manchester City’s late interest could complicate matters. Meanwhile, Richarlison, who is entering the final year of his contract, has agreed in principle to return to Goodison Park.

  • Jack Grealish’s Return: Everton is increasingly confident of securing a loan return for Jack Grealish. The Manchester City winger spent last season at Goodison Park and reportedly prefers a second stint with the Toffees over a return to his boyhood club, Aston Villa.

  • Newcastle’s Attacking Push: Magpies boss Matthias Jaissle is pushing to sign 21-year-old Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo. The versatile attacker has been frozen out of Lille’s training and matchday squads until the window closes, heavily hinting at an imminent Premier League transfer.

  • Joshua Zirkzee’s Exit: Manchester United’s late window activity may center on outgoings, specifically Joshua Zirkzee. Fiorentina is pursuing a loan deal with an option to buy the Dutch forward, though United reportedly prefers a permanent sale or a strict obligation to buy.

With the clock ticking down, fans should expect a frantic finale as the Premier League transfer window draws to a close.