Former Premier League star Jason McAteer has raised concerns over the mental well-being of England internationals Jude Bellingham and Jack Grealish, warning that the current level of scrutiny placed on elite footballers is unsustainable without adequate psychological support. With growing public expectations and underwhelming outings in an England shirt, both players have faced a storm of negative attention in recent months.
Manchester City have beaten Newcastle United to the signing of goalkeeper James Trafford, with Pep Guardiola’s side reaching an agreement with Burnley. The deal has reportedly been sealed for less than the £40 million ($53.8m) buy-back clause originally set, as City prepare for possible changes in their goalkeeping department ahead of the new season.
Tottenham have been handed a fresh boost in their pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White after Manchester City's stance on returning for the midfielder was revealed.
Kevin De Bruyne’s much-anticipated first appearance for Napoli ended in disappointment as the reigning Serie A titleholders suffered an unexpected 2-0 defeat to third-division club Arezzo in a pre-season friendly. The Belgian midfielder, who recently joined from Manchester City, was handed a starting role by manager Antonio Conte, but the night didn’t unfold as planned for the star-studded Italian side.
Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis wants Morgan Gibbs-White to join Manchester City instead of Tottenham if he leaves the club this summer. Earlier this month, Spurs activated the midfielder's £60 million ($80m) release clause but the transfer talks stalled after Forest accused the Lilywhites of making an "illegal approach".
Manchester City have reportedly ruled out a summer move for Newcastle’s Tino Livramento, despite needing a new right-back following Kyle Walker’s departure to Burnley. Pep Guardiola is instead considering Barcelona’s Jules Kounde, although a deal looks difficult at the moment. City are now focused on player exits, but could still act if the deal for Kounde is deemed possible.