Al-Hilal are preparing for life after Karim Benzema, with manager Simone Inzaghi targeting Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins as his replacement. However, any deal for the England international remains stalled while the Saudi club negotiate a contract termination payout with the 38-year-old Ballon d'Or winner.
One should always be wary of reading too much into friendlies but it's clear that some clubs - and players - are in better shape than others ahead of the big kick-off...
Juventus have made a significant breakthrough in their search for a new goalkeeper after reaching a full agreement with Tottenham Hotspur for Guglielmo Vicario. The Italy international is set to return to his homeland on an initial loan deal as the Bianconeri shift their focus away from Aston Villa and Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has voiced serious concerns over Manchester United's summer recruitment strategy, suggesting the club may have moved for the wrong midfielder in Youri Tielemans. While Michael Carrick has been busy rebuilding his engine room at Old Trafford, Carragher believes a major opportunity was missed in the market.
Juventus have officially ended their pursuit of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez after failing to agree on a transfer fee. The Italian giants have completely closed the chapter on the Argentine international, pulling the plug on the potential move due to excessive financial demands, forcing them to rapidly explore alternative options before the window shuts.
Aston Villa have moved decisively in the transfer market, reportedly reaching a total agreement to sign Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki. The deal represents a significant coup for Unai Emery, who has successfully hijacked a move that appeared destined for Paris Saint-Germain just days ago.
Cheltenham Town Women
