Transfer gossip round-up: Junior Kroupi on Arsenal radar - Friday's gossip

The transfer chatter on Thursday reads like a who's‑who of Europe’s biggest clubs, with a mix of youthful promise and seasoned talent sparking interest across the continent.

Arsenal’s radar is buzzing on two fronts. According to Football London, the Gunners are extremely keen on Bournemouth and France Under‑21 forward Eli Junior Kroupi, 20, but the Cherries would expect a huge fee for the young striker. In the same vein, Football Insider reports that Arsenal have no intention of selling 27‑year‑old Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi in January, signalling that the club is looking to add rather than off‑load.

Real Madrid’s summer agenda appears equally busy. Goal says the Spanish giants are weighing up a move for Everton’s 24‑year‑old English defender Jarrad Branthwaite, who is also on the radar of several Premier League clubs. Meanwhile, Teamtalk adds that both Real Madrid and Barcelona have made fresh enquiries about American teenager Cavan Sullivan, 16, who is set to move to Manchester City from Philadelphia Union when he turns 18.

Chelsea’s interest is anchored in a high‑profile target. Fichajes – in Spanish – claims the Blues are keen to explore a £69m deal for Spain and Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, 24, indicating a willingness to splurge for proven Premier League quality. Elsewhere in the capital, Liverpool face a steep price tag. ESPN Brazil via Caught Offside reports that Liverpool will have to pay the full £130m release clause to buy 20‑year‑old Brazilian Rayan from Bournemouth, despite manager Andoni Iraola’s prior relationship with the midfielder from his time as Cherries boss.

Atletico Madrid’s pursuit of midfield talent adds another layer. Mundo Deportivo says the Spanish outfit and Argentina midfielder Julian Alvarez, 26, who counts Arsenal and Barcelona among his suitors, is considering leaving his long‑term agent after a summer of transfer speculation. This suggests a potential shift in representation could influence the final destination.

Everton’s own transfer calculus appears more restrained. Football Insider reports that the Toffees are unlikely to pursue Tottenham and Brazil forward Richarlison, despite the 29‑year‑old being linked with a return to the club over the summer. The club’s stance hints at a focus elsewhere in the market.

All told, the day’s rumors paint a picture of clubs probing both emerging stars and established names, each weighing options amid a landscape of hefty price tags and shifting allegiances.