As the transfer window continues to heat up, several major European clubs are making significant moves. Inter Milan have reportedly agreed a record-breaking deal for Israeli star Anan Khalaili, while Arsenal have secured the signing of goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer. Meanwhile, Real Madrid are looking to offload several players to fund their transfer activities.
Inter Milan Secure Record Deal for Anan Khalaili
Inter Milan have reportedly agreed a €25 million deal for Union Saint-Gilloise's Anan Khalaili, a transfer that would make him the most expensive Israeli player in history. The Italian champions have been pursuing the right-wing back, and a breakthrough in negotiations has led to an agreement. Fabrizio Romano reported the "here we go" for the transfer, stating that the deal includes a €25 million fixed fee plus add-ons. Khalaili's previous club, Maccabi Haifa, is expected to receive approximately €3.5 million from this deal due to a 15% sell-on clause. The 21-year-old is seen as a crucial reinforcement for Inter, especially as they undergo a squad overhaul.
Arsenal Bolster Goalkeeping Ranks with Meslier Signing
Arsenal have officially announced the signing of goalkeeper Illan Meslier from Leeds United on a free transfer. The 26-year-old Frenchman has agreed to a contract and will wear the number 30 shirt. Meslier joins Arsenal after spending seven seasons at Leeds, where he made 215 appearances and kept 70 clean sheets. He was instrumental in Leeds' promotion to the Premier League in the 2024-25 season. Meslier's arrival is expected to provide competition for current first-choice goalkeeper David Raya and add depth to Arsenal's goalkeeping department, which also includes Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Real Madrid Generate Funds Through Player Sales
Real Madrid have generated approximately £92 million from player sales as they look to finance their summer transfer window activities. Among the notable departures is Nico Paz, who was sold to Como for £51 million, making it the second-most expensive sale of a homegrown player in the club's history. Victor Munoz has also been sold to Liverpool for £34 million, while Mario Gila moved to AC Milan and Alvaro Rodriguez joined Bournemouth, with both deals reportedly fetching £13 million each. These sales are part of a broader squad overhaul under new manager Jose Mourinho, who has already brought in Marc Cucurella, Denzel Dumfries, Bernardo Silva, and Ibrahima Konate.
Chelsea's Transfer Activity and Midfield Search
Chelsea have lodged a second offer of around €17.5 million for Rayo Vallecano left-back Pep Chavarria, with personal terms reportedly agreed. However, this bid still falls short of Rayo Vallecano's €24.5 million valuation. The Blues are looking to replace Marc Cucurella, who recently moved to Real Madrid. In midfield, Chelsea are still in the market for a new player after failing to sign Granit Xhaka. They are considering several targets, including Adam Wharton, though his price tag is a concern. Meanwhile, Andrey Santos is on his way out of Stamford Bridge, with Manchester United agreeing to a £50 million package deal for the Brazilian midfielder.
Manchester United's Midfield Reinforcements and Tchouaméni Blow
Manchester United are close to finalising the signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea for a reported £50 million package. Santos has completed his medical and is expected to sign a contract until 2031. The Red Devils have also agreed a £35 million deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, though a thorough medical is pending. In a blow to their midfield ambitions, Manchester United's long-term target Aurelien Tchouaméni has agreed a new five-year contract with Real Madrid, committing his future until 2031. This development ends United's hopes of signing the French international, who was reportedly unwilling to take a pay cut.
What it means
The transfer market is showing no signs of slowing down, with clubs actively strengthening their squads ahead of the new season. Inter Milan's pursuit of Khalaili signals their intent to remain competitive in Serie A and Europe, while Arsenal's free transfer for Meslier demonstrates shrewd business in reinforcing their goalkeeping options. Real Madrid's proactive approach to player sales indicates a strategic reshaping of their squad, potentially to fund future acquisitions or comply with financial regulations. Chelsea's continued search for midfield reinforcements highlights a need to address a disappointing previous season, while Manchester United's busy activity in the midfield area, despite the Tchouaméni setback, shows a clear strategy to rebuild their engine room. The confirmed deals and ongoing negotiations underscore the dynamic nature of the transfer window, with clubs aiming to secure their key targets early.
What's next
With the World Cup now concluded, transfer activity is expected to intensify. Clubs will be looking to finalise deals for their priority targets and offload players who are not part of their future plans. The coming days and weeks will likely see more official announcements and further developments in ongoing transfer sagas across Europe's top leagues.
Kickoff XI is an independent publication and is not affiliated with FIFA.
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