Seven Deals That Can Still Be Done This Summer

While the transfer window has slammed shut for many of Europe’s elite football leagues, the global market remains surprisingly active. For clubs in leagues like the Premier League and La Liga, the opportunity to acquire new talent has passed, but the chance to offload players persists. This ongoing fluidity creates a fascinating dynamic, as several high-profile players who couldn’t secure moves earlier this summer still have a glimmer of hope. Their options may have narrowed, but the clock hasn’t entirely run out.

Here, we delve into seven significant deals that could still materialize before various international windows close, offering both clubs and players a final chance for a fresh start.

Emiliano Martínez: A Saudi or Turkish Escape Route?

Aston Villa’s two-time Yashin Trophy winner, Emiliano Martínez, seemed poised for an exit at the end of last season, even appearing to bid farewell to fans. However, a move failed to materialize, leaving him in an awkward position. Manchester United’s late interest ultimately led to the acquisition of Senne Lammens, leaving Martínez stranded at Villa Park.

Now, the Argentine international faces a choice: be reintegrated into the Aston Villa squad or seek a transfer before other deadlines pass. Previously linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League, Martínez may need to reconsider his stance on a switch to the Middle East, especially with several leading Saudi clubs still active. Turkish giants Galatasaray, still seeking a new goalkeeper after their failed pursuit of Ederson, also present a viable option for the experienced shot-stopper.

André Onana: Old Trafford Future Looks Gloomy

Unlike Martínez, André Onana has publicly expressed contentment with his situation at Manchester United. However, the arrival of Senne Lammens has significantly altered his standing. Onana has been conspicuously absent from all three of United’s Premier League matches this season, with Altay Bayındır preferred. His only appearance came in the humiliating Carabao Cup exit to League Two side Grimsby Town, casting a shadow over his future as the club’s number one.

Should opportunities arise in Turkey or Saudi Arabia before their respective windows close later in September, the Cameroon international might be tempted to reconsider his position. Despite his initial contentment, the competitive landscape at Old Trafford suggests a gloomy outlook for Onana.

Tyrell Malacia: Stuck in Limbo at Man Utd

Tyrell Malacia stands as the sole remaining member of Manchester United’s so-called ‘bomb squad’ who has yet to secure an Old Trafford exit this summer. While teammates like Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, and Antony have found new clubs, the Dutch left-back remains in a state of limbo.

A loan move to Spanish side Elche appeared imminent late in the window but ultimately fell through. With first-team opportunities at Old Trafford looking increasingly unlikely, Malacia would be well-advised to seek a new club while he still can. The Red Devils, eager to reduce their wage bill, will also be keen to facilitate his departure as soon as possible, potentially eyeing markets like Portugal or Turkey.

Raheem Sterling: A Costly Conundrum for Chelsea

Raheem Sterling’s stock has plummeted following a disastrous loan spell with Arsenal last season, making a permanent Chelsea exit seem inevitable this summer. However, significant interest never materialized. Fulham was among the clubs reportedly considering a move but ultimately opted for alternative targets.

A move within England always seemed most probable for Sterling, who has never played abroad. Now, he may have to contemplate a journey to unfamiliar territory if he wishes to play regular football before the January transfer window opens. Chelsea faces a massive financial burden, reportedly paying Sterling a staggering £325,000 per week. Failing to offload him represents a significant financial drain for the club.

Axel Disasi: Saudi Arabia, Chelsea’s Potential Saviour?

Axel Disasi’s £39 million move to Chelsea from Monaco has largely been a disaster. The two-cap France international quickly fell down the pecking order after Enzo Maresca’s arrival and spent the latter half of last season on loan with Aston Villa. Villa opted against a permanent deal, and links with Bournemouth and his former club Monaco never materialized.

Chelsea is currently stuck with his £40,000 per week wages. While there appears to be limited interest from clubs in Turkey or Portugal, the Saudi Pro League could yet prove to be Chelsea’s saviour with a late bid for the defender, offering a potential escape route for both player and club.

Yves Bissouma: Tottenham’s Desperate Bid to Cash In

Since Thomas Frank’s arrival in the Tottenham Hotspur dugout, Yves Bissouma has been pushed to the periphery, even being omitted from the club’s Champions League league phase squad. Despite failing to sell him to one of Europe’s leading divisions this summer, Spurs still hold hope of offloading the midfielder.

Reports suggest Bissouma could still depart amid interest from clubs in Turkey and Saudi Arabia. With his contract expiring next summer, Tottenham will be desperate to cash in on him while they still can, even if the fee they receive is minimal. This situation highlights the urgency for Spurs to recoup some value from a player no longer in their immediate plans.

Jamaal Lascelles: Newcastle’s Defensive Overload

The signing of Malick Thiaw has pushed the injury-prone Jamaal Lascelles further down the pecking order at St James’s Park. The centre-back is yet to feature for Newcastle United this season, although he was named on the bench for the recent goalless draw at Leeds United.

According to The Athletic, Newcastle could allow Lascelles to leave this summer despite the deadline closing in England, as the club now boasts extensive cover in central defence. The challenge lies in finding a suitable suitor, especially given Lascelles lacks the high profile of other wantaway Premier League players. Nevertheless, a move for the 31-year-old could still be on the cards.