Everton have reached a full agreement with Monaco to sign American striker Folarin Balogun for a fixed fee of €45 million plus €5 million in add-ons and a sell-on clause. The 25-year-old has agreed personal terms on a four-year contract with a one-year extension option and is set to travel for a medical. However, L'Équipe reports the move may be in doubt due to delays in Everton's sale of Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester City before the transfer window closes.
Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernández is in advanced talks to join Manchester City from Chelsea, with negotiations expected to progress within 24-48 hours. City plans an initial bid below Chelsea’s £120 million asking price, while Chelsea insists on the full valuation and seeks a replacement before selling. Fernández has given City the green light and was left out of Chelsea’s match squad, signaling the transfer’s final stages. The deal is one of the most anticipated moves of the summer window.
Paul Pogba, 33, suffered a left thigh injury during AS Monaco’s pre-season training camp at St George’s Park in England, his latest setback after a series of fitness issues. The former World Cup winner joined Monaco in June 2025 but made only six appearances (115 minutes) due to injuries and a prior doping ban. Monaco is now in talks to terminate his contract by mutual agreement, with a decision expected by end of August. The club had hoped to restore his fitness but has concluded the project has not worked.
Paris Saint-Germain successfully negotiated the transfer of French international midfielder Maghnes Akliouche from AS Monaco for €50 million, after Monaco rejected earlier offers including a €45 million bid. The 24-year-old, under contract until 2028, had expressed preference for PSG, which also fended off interest from Liverpool. The deal, finalized in late July 2026, surpasses the previous Ligue 1 transfer record and strengthens PSG's squad for the upcoming season.
Karim Benzema, the 38-year-old Ballon d'Or winner who joined Al-Hilal in February, played a friendly match against MC Alger on Wednesday evening, which Al-Hilal lost 0-2. Despite the defeat, Benzema appeared cheerful after the game. He agreed to exchange jerseys with Chareddine Boukholda, a 30-year-old Franco-Algerian midfielder for MC Alger who previously trained at Monaco and played for Lille's reserve team. Boukholda was surprised by the request, and the exchange continued in the locker room. Benzema, who has faced physical setbacks this season and played only 10 of 16 league matches, is under contract with Al-Hilal until June 2027.
Paris Saint-Germain is the frontrunner to sign AS Monaco attacking midfielder Maghnes Akliouche, a 24-year-old French international. PSG has accelerated negotiations after clearing attacking departures—Gonçalo Ramos to AC Milan and Lee Kang-in likely to Atletico Madrid. Akliouche has agreed in principle and prioritized PSG, though he remains focused on the World Cup. Monaco initially demanded €70 million but is expected to lower its price due to a need to sell and good club relations. A deal is expected soon.
German 100m record holder Owen Ansah (25) faces a potential four-year ban after the National Anti Doping Agency (NADA) initiated proceedings for allegedly refusing a doping test on July 10, 2026. Ansah claims he was rushing to the Diamond League in Monaco and had just used the toilet when the tester arrived outside his time window. He was not provisionally suspended and can compete at the European Championships in Birmingham. The case treats refusal as seriously as a positive test under Article 2.3 of anti-doping rules.
Getafe CF began its second preseason training camp on Monday, July 27, 2026, in Campoamor, where the team will train until Thursday before returning to Madrid. The club has already played three friendlies: a 1-0 win over Reading (goal by Martín Satriano), a 2-1 win over Tenerife, and a 0-0 draw with Real Valladolid. On Thursday, Getafe will face Atlético Madrid at their Ciudad Deportiva. The team will also play against Monaco and Tottenham to close a demanding preseason ahead of their La Liga opener against Alavés at Mendizorroza in 15 days. The article also notes Getafe's upcoming participation in the Conference League.
Getafe CF has started its second preseason training camp in Campoamor, where the team will train from Monday until Thursday before returning to Madrid to finalize preparations for the new season, which begins in just 15 days. The team previously trained in Oliva, playing friendlies against Reading (1-0 win with a goal from Martin Satriano), Tenerife (2-1 win), and Real Valladolid (0-0 draw). Upcoming friendlies include a match against Atletico Madrid on Thursday at their Ciudad Deportiva, followed by games against Monaco and Tottenham. Getafe's league debut will be away at Mendizorroza against Alaves.
Getafe CF has started its second preseason training camp on July 27, 2026, in Campoamor, where the team will train until Thursday before returning to Madrid to finalize preparations for the new season, which begins in fifteen days. The team previously trained in Oliva and played friendlies against Reading (1-0 win), Tenerife (1-2 win), and Real Valladolid (0-0 draw). Upcoming matches include a derby against Atlético Madrid at their Ciudad Deportiva on Thursday, followed by games against Monaco and Tottenham as part of a demanding preseason. Getafe will open their league campaign away at Alavés's Mendizorroza stadium.
Sporting CP released behind-the-scenes footage of their 2-0 victory over Monaco in the Cinco Violinos trophy, held at the Estádio José Alvalade. The video shows the relaxed atmosphere at the Cristiano Ronaldo Academy, the team presentation, and the goals that secured the win. A notable moment features Italian midfielder Issa Doumbia briefly speaking Portuguese before quickly switching back to Italian. The match was a pre-season presentation game for Sporting, who won 2-0.
Jesse Derry, a 19-year-old English forward, scored a stunning goal in Sporting's 2-0 victory over Monaco. In his post-match reaction, Derry expressed his honor at playing for the club and admitted he was overwhelmed with emotion, stating he 'didn't know what to do' and simply stared at the stands after scoring. The article also notes that former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand is monitoring Derry's progress. Derry expressed confidence in scoring more goals for Sporting in the future.
Spanish midfielder Altimira expressed readiness to replace Hjulmand at Sporting CP, stating he has been accustomed to pressure since childhood. He made his debut at Alvalade in Sporting's 2-0 victory over Monaco. The article also includes other football transfer news, such as Franjo Ivanovic joining Croatia's World Cup reserve list, Arsenal's offer for Julián Alvarez, Xavi Simons' serious knee injury, and various transfer moves involving Portuguese and top European clubs.
Monaco suffered a 0-2 defeat to Sporting Portugal in a pre-season friendly match in Lisbon on Saturday. The Ligue 1 side, missing several key players including Paul Pogba (on crutches) and World Cup participants Balogun, Camara, Zakaria, and Akliouche, were outclassed throughout the match. Sporting dominated from the start, with Geny Catamo hitting the post early and Lukas Hradecky making saves. After a goalless first half, Rafael Nel opened the scoring with a diving header in the 54th minute following a one-touch collective sequence. Jesse Derry added a second goal with a curled shot in the 68th minute. Monaco goalkeeper Philipp Köhn made several interventions to prevent a heavier defeat, and Sporting's Silas Andersen hit the crossbar late on. The result highlighted Monaco's lack of readiness compared to Sporting, who resume competition earlier. Monaco's next pre-season match is scheduled against Cercle Bruges on Friday.
Portuguese winger Pote received a standing ovation from fans at Alvalade Stadium during what is likely his final match for Sporting CP. He was introduced at halftime of the friendly against Monaco and played 30 minutes before leaving to strong applause. The attacker thanked the crowd and shared a moment with fans as they chanted his name. The match was part of the Troféu Cinco Violinos pre-season tournament.
Sporting Clube de Portugal presented its new signings for the 2026/27 season to members at the Estádio José Alvalade on Saturday, July 25, 2026, before a match against Monaco for the Cinco Violinos trophy. Players were called one by one to show themselves to the fans. The presentation featured images of several players, including Silas Andersen, Altimira, Debast, Pote, Geny Catamo, Maximiliano Araújo, Diomande, Jesse Derry, Luis Suárez, and coach Rui Borges. The event highlighted the club's new reinforcements and generated mixed reactions from fans, particularly regarding Luis Suárez.
With approximately two hours until the official kickoff of the Sporting vs. Monaco match at Alvalade, fans are already gathering near the stadium, particularly at the green store. Sporting's new jerseys, which have generated significant buzz on social media, are in high demand. Dozens of fans have been stopping by the club store to secure the best attire for the match later today against Monaco. The alternative kit has been praised by fans and media. The match is part of the Cinco Violinos trophy event, a celebration for Sporting supporters.
Sporting Group has announced a consolidated profit of 23.8 million euros for the 2024/25 financial year, according to documentation set for discussion and voting at the club's General Assembly on Saturday, ahead of the Cinco Violinos Trophy. The financial results show a significant profit, though lower than the previous year's 36.4 million euros. For the 2026/27 fiscal year, Sporting forecasts a modest profit of 170,000 euros and has proposed a budget of 13 million euros for investments, including 8.7 million euros earmarked for the repurchase of the Holmes Place health club asset. The club is also seeking member authorization for this repurchase. The accounts and budget for 2025/26 were previously approved with over 90% of votes. The article also covers other club news, including player transfers and preparations for a match against Monaco.
Sporting CP continued preparations for their pre-season friendly against Monaco, scheduled for Saturday at 7:30 PM at Estádio José Alvalade, as part of the Cinco Violinos trophy and the team's presentation to fans. Coach Rui Borges will be without several international players for the match, including Luis Suárez, Rui Silva, Gonçalo Inácio, and Debast, who are returning from World Cup holiday. However, these players will be present at the stadium. Defender Diomande's participation is uncertain as he is in talks to join Nottingham Forest for around €40 million, pending final details. The squad also has injuries to João Simões, Nuno Santos, Ibrahima Ba, and Bruno Ramos. The session on Friday was light, focusing on tactical fine-tuning. This match is the penultimate friendly of pre-season, with another against Nottingham Forest on July 31 at Estádio do Algarve, before the season opener against Estrela da Amadora on August 8.
English Premier League club Newcastle United has agreed a deal worth up to €41 million (£34 million) with AS Monaco for 20-year-old French defensive midfielder Aladji Bamba. The transfer includes €5 million in add-ons and a sell-on clause for Monaco. Bamba, who led Ligue 1 midfielders in duels won last season, has arrived in Newcastle for a medical and to sign a long-term contract. The move follows Newcastle’s sale of Sandro Tonali to Tottenham and aims to reinforce their midfield.
Crystal Palace is accelerating efforts to sign 24-year-old central defender Chrislain Matsima from Bundesliga club Augsburg, as current defender Maxence Lacroix is set to join Chelsea. According to Foot Mercato, discussions between the two clubs have intensified and are progressing positively. Matsima, who was trained at Monaco (which holds 15% of any future capital gain), has already verbally agreed to personal terms with Crystal Palace. The London club, managed by Pierre Sage, is moving quickly to secure the succession for Lacroix. The transfer is reportedly moving in the right direction for the Eagles.
In a 'Square Mile and Me' interview, David Collyer, Global Senior Vice President at Aspire, shares personal and professional anecdotes from his career in hospitality and the City of London. He recounts his first job as a paperboy, his early role at WPP, and his passion for hospitality sparked by working with luxury brands. Collyer describes a memorable meeting at Enzo Ferrari's office and a business faux pas at the Cinnamon Club where he unknowingly ordered the hottest dish on the menu. He expresses love for London, advocates for free museum access, and shares his proudest moment winning an IHG Star award. Collyer offers career advice ('It's not signed until it's signed'), names his uncle as his inspiration, and reveals his ideal lunch spot at Coq d'Argent. He is optimistic about the year ahead and describes his weekend life at Ascot and Guards Polo Club.
Liverpool have reportedly made an initial approach to Monaco for winger Maghnes Akliouche, as they seek attacking reinforcements this summer. According to Sky Sports News, the Reds contacted Monaco to understand the financial terms required for a deal, potentially hijacking PSG's long-rumored move for the 24-year-old. PSG have seen multiple bids rejected by Monaco, with their latest offer around £34m (€40m) deemed unacceptable. Akliouche, a left-footed attacker who primarily plays on the right wing, has recorded 21 goals and 24 assists in 127 appearances for Monaco. He also featured in France's World Cup squad this summer. Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola is eager to add dynamism to his attack ahead of the new Premier League season, setting up a potential transfer battle with PSG.
Renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that AS Monaco midfielder Maghnes Akliouche has agreed personal terms with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), placing the Ligue 1 club ahead of Liverpool in the race for his signature. Club-level negotiations between PSG and Monaco are progressing steadily, with PSG viewing Akliouche as a key midfield reinforcement. The player is reportedly interested in PSG's sporting project. Romano cautioned that transfer agreements remain subject to change until officially signed, citing the example of Morgan Rogers. Separately, PSG has shown interest in RB Leipzig winger Diomande, but negotiations are at an early stage and complicated by Leipzig's high valuation and interest from multiple Premier League clubs. PSG is evaluating whether to invest further resources in that deal.
According to Sky Sports, Liverpool has entered negotiations to sign Monaco midfielder Maghnes Akliouche, despite an existing agreement between the player and Paris Saint-Germain. The French international, who has 10 caps and played in the 2026 World Cup, is seen by Liverpool as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah on the right wing. New Liverpool coach Andoni Iraola has emphasized the need for a winger despite the recent arrival of Victor Munoz. Additionally, Liverpool has reportedly made a €100 million offer for another PSG target, Ivorian winger Yan Diomandé, though RB Leipzig demands over €130 million. Meanwhile, PSG is close to selling Kang-In Lee to Atlético Madrid for around €40 million.
Manchester United have made inquiries about signing Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, despite reports that the French international has signed a new contract extending his stay at the Bernabeu until 2031. The 26-year-old defensive midfielder is a priority target for United, who are looking to replace Casemiro after his contract expired. However, new Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has no interest in selling Tchouameni, who is under contract until 2028. United have already strengthened their midfield this summer with Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, but view Tchouameni as a potential blockbuster signing. The club previously had the chance to sign him in 2021 when he was at Monaco but lacked the budget. Speculation about Real Madrid cashing in has increased following Spain's World Cup victory, with Rodri's performances fueling transfer rumors.
Liverpool are actively pursuing two wingers in the summer transfer window following Mohamed Salah's departure. The Reds are confident they will beat Arsenal to the signing of PSG star Bradley Barcola, who is valued at around £100m. Additionally, Liverpool have made an approach for Monaco's Maghnes Akliouche, a 24-year-old French international who scored seven goals last season. PSG are also keen on Akliouche and have had several offers declined by Monaco, the most recent around £34m. Liverpool have already signed Spanish winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna for £34.5m and centre-half Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes for £55m. The club spent over £400m last summer, signing Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, but finished fifth in the Premier League.
Ligue 1+, the exclusive streaming platform for Ligue 1, announced it will broadcast more than 30 friendly matches of French clubs before the Ligue 1 season resumes on August 21. The matches will be shown live on the LFP's streaming platform. The first matches begin on July 25, featuring five pre-season games including Lens-Charleroi, Union Saint-Gilloise-Lille, Marseille-Nice, Rennes-Club Bruges, and Sporting-Monaco. A total of nine matches will pit Ligue 1 clubs against Premier League teams, such as Crystal Palace-Lens, Liverpool-Monaco, Sunderland-Rennes, Everton-Lille, and Newcastle-Strasbourg. The weekend of August 15-16 will feature around 15 matches, providing a substantial warm-up program for subscribers ahead of the new season.
Crystal Palace are reportedly leading the race to sign Senegalese winger Krepin Diatta on a free transfer, beating competition from Bayer Leverkusen. Diatta, 27, is a free agent after five years at Monaco, where he made 114 league appearances but scored only 6 goals. Despite his low goal tally, his dribbling and crossing abilities are considered major assets. Sport Witness reports that Palace are the frontrunners, though Leverkusen have held two meetings with the player's agent. New Palace manager Pierre Sage is keen to add Diatta to his squad. The move is seen as a smart pickup on a free transfer.
Sporting CP's Estádio José Alvalade renovation progresses with the 'Lion's Corner' lounge space taking shape between the West and South stands, ahead of the Cinco Violinos Trophy match against Monaco. Annual seats for the new area are already sold out. The article also reports on player transfers: left-back Ricardo Mangas is leaving for Italian club Monza after one season, creative midfielder Pote is expected to bid farewell at the Cinco Violinos Trophy with Al Diriyah leading the race for his signing, and Sporting has identified Famalicão center-back Ibrahima Ba as a potential successor if Ousmane Diomande leaves for Nottingham Forest in a deal exceeding €40 million.
1 reports · 1 sources · Updated
Periodic recap
What changed for this subject in each tracking window — generated from matched events, delta-first.
→· 1 event in window
Monaco has reached a full agreement with Everton for the transfer of striker Folarin Balogun for a fixed fee of €45 million plus €5 million in add-ons. However, L'Équipe reports the move may be in doubt due to delays in Everton's sale of Iliman Ndiaye.
Monaco agreed a deal with Everton for Balogun worth €45 million fixed plus €5 million in add-ons and a sell-on clause.
Balogun has agreed personal terms on a four-year contract with a one-year extension option.
L'Équipe reports the transfer may be in doubt due to delays in Everton's sale of Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester City.
Earlier recaps
→· 1 event in window
Enzo Fernández's move to Manchester City has entered its final stages, with the player giving the green light and being left out of Chelsea's match squad. Manchester City plans to submit an initial bid within 24-48 hours, though the offer is expected to fall below Chelsea's £120 million asking price. Chelsea is insisting on the full valuation and wants a replacement secured before selling, adding urgency to its earlier contacts with Monaco over Lamine Camara.
→· 1 event in window
Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara has become a focal point in the transfer market, with Chelsea pushing to sign him. With Enzo Fernández potentially moving to Manchester City for over €140 million, Chelsea views Camara as a replacement and has held direct meetings with Monaco officials. Monaco is demanding €50-60 million for the 22-year-old Senegalese international, who is under contract until 2029.
→· 1 event in window
Monaco continues to reshape its squad in the transfer window, now moving to address Paul Pogba's contract situation after the record sale of Akliouche. Pogba suffered another injury during pre-season training, and the club has concluded that its rehabilitation project has not worked, entering talks to terminate his contract by mutual agreement.
→· 1 event in window
Monaco's role in the transfer window has reversed, as the club sold midfielder Maghnes Akliouche to Paris Saint-Germain for €50 million, shortly after nearing the signing of Nantes striker Matthis Abline. The deal broke the Ligue 1 transfer record, after Monaco rejected an earlier €45 million bid from PSG. Akliouche had expressed a preference for the move, which was finalized in late July.
→· 1 event in window
Monaco is closing in on a record-breaking transfer, set to sign Nantes striker Matthis Abline. The deal, worth approximately €30 million, will be a record sale for Nantes, with Abline agreeing to a five-year contract. Monaco won the bidding war against competitors including Paris FC and Crystal Palace, convincing the player to commit to their project.
Tracked events
Events matched to this subject by the tracking pipeline, with signal scores.
Chelsea Pursues Monaco Midfielder Camara as Enzo Fernandez Replacement
Chelsea FC is in advanced talks to sign AS Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara, a 22-year-old Senegalese international, as a potential replacement for Enzo Fernández, who is reportedly set to join Manchester City for over €140 million. Monaco demands a fee between €50-60 million for Camara, who has a contract until 2029. Chelsea has held direct meetings with Monaco officials, and Camara is open to the move. Liverpool and Crystal Palace also show interest, but Chelsea is in a favorable position to finalize the transfer before the summer window closes.