Jakub Kiwior (Arsenal)
August 2025
C Porto have ended their pursuit of Jakub Kiwior after being deterred by Arsenal’s €30 million valuation. The Portuguese side instead signed Jan Bednarek from Southampton for £6.5m. Despite Mikel Arteta’s desire to keep Kiwior, the defender is open to a move for more playing time. While a Serie A switch remains a possibility, he stays part of Arsenal’s squad for now.
Jeremy Jacquet (Stade Rennais)
August 2025
Arsenal’s bid for Stade Rennais defender Jeremy Jacquet has been turned down, with the 20-year-old opting to remain in Ligue 1 despite Gunners’ interest. Jacquet impressed during a loan at Clermont Foot and was offered a long-term deal by Rennes. Arsenal, who recently signed Cristhian Mosquera, must now look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements.
FIFA & Five National Football Associations
August 2025
FIFA and five national FAs face a class action lawsuit from a Dutch players’ foundation claiming unfair income restrictions from transfer rules, seeking billions in damages for 100,000 footballers. Sparked by a court win for Lassana Diarra, the case challenges FIFA’s contract termination and transfer rules, citing violation of EU labour rights. The Bosman-style case could reshape global player mobility.
Diogo Jota (Liverpool)
August 2025
Virgil van Dijk has paid tribute to Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in a car accident with his brother. Liverpool are determined to honour his legacy on and off the pitch. Jota was driving back to pre-season due to recovery from a lung operation when the crash occurred. Van Dijk emphasized the importance of supporting Jota’s family and carrying his memory forward across the season.
Alexander Isak (Newcastle United)
August 2025
Alexander Isak is back at Newcastle’s training ground after skipping the pre-season tour in Asia, citing injury. Talks with Eddie Howe are set as the striker eyes a move to Liverpool. Isak trained privately at Real Sociedad while Newcastle rejected Liverpool’s opening bid. With the Swede pushing for the switch, Newcastle are preparing for his potential exit by targeting Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.
Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
August 2025
Manchester United drew 2-2 with Everton in Atlanta to win the Summer Series title, with goals from Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes capping an exciting but defensively inconsistent performance. Fernandes scored from the spot and assisted Mount’s classy strike, while new signings Mbeumo and Cunha added attacking flair. Everton hit back with goals from Iliman Ndiaye and a bizarre own goal off Ayden Heaven.
Reinier Jesus (Real Madrid > Atletico Mineiro)
August 2025
Reinier Jesus has agreed to join Atletico Mineiro on a four-and-a-half-year deal after terminating his Real Madrid contract, ending a fruitless five-year stint with the Spanish giants. The Brazilian attacking midfielder never made a first-team appearance and spent multiple loan spells across Europe. Madrid included a 50% sell-on clause after paying €30m for him in 2020.
David Luiz (Pafos FC)
August 2025
Former Chelsea and Brazil defender David Luiz has joined Champions League hopefuls Pafos FC in Cyprus on a three-year deal, marking a surprise return to European football at age 38. Luiz mutually terminated his Fortaleza contract on August 1 before sealing the move. Pafos hailed it as the biggest signing in Cypriot football history, with Luiz set to help them in Champions League qualifying.
Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers)
August 2025
Damian Lillard has been appointed general manager of Weber State’s basketball program, returning to his alma mater to guide the team while rehabbing from a torn Achilles. Announced at the Weber State Alumni Classic, Lillard will support player development and team operations. The 9-time All-Star recently signed a new 3-year deal with Portland and remains sidelined for 2025–26.
Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers)
August 2025
Luka Doncic has signed a three-year, $165 million max extension with the Lakers, locking in through 2028 with a player option. He bypassed 2026 free agency, solidifying his future with the franchise. After averaging 28.2 points last season, Doncic expressed his desire to win titles and earn his place among Laker greats. The Slovenian star has shown renewed commitment through offseason conditioning and helped recruit Ayton and Smart.
