Happy Friday!
With the FIFA Club World Cup concluded, the European transfer market is heating up, especially with the Women’s Euro quarterfinals happening this weekend. Another star from the US Men’s National Team is reportedly in talks to join a Serie A team this summer. I’m Francesco Porzio with the latest.
Footy Fix
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Friday, July 18th
🇪🇺 Women’s Euro: Spain vs. Switzerland, 3 PM
Saturday, July 19th
🇪🇺 Women’s Euro: France vs. Germany, 3 PM
🇺🇸 MLS: New York Red Bulls vs. Inter Miami, 7:30 PM ➡️ ATV
🇺🇸 MLS: LAFC vs. LA Galaxy, 10:30 PM
Arsenal’s Transfer Moves
Arsenal, alongside Manchester City and Liverpool, is notably active in the Premier League transfer window. Under manager Mikel Arteta, the Gunners have already signed three players ahead of the preseason, including the Premier League’s top signing from last season. Here’s a look at Arsenal’s ambitious transfer strategies as outlined by our own James Benge.
- Benge: "Two more deals are on the brink of announcement. Christian Mosquera is set to strengthen the defense, with Noni Madueke arriving from Chelsea for $70 million. Negotiations are ongoing regarding a $73.6 million deal for Viktor Gyökeres, focusing on specific terms and achievable add-ons worth $11.6 million."
The question arises: Why is Arsenal making these moves all in one summer? Much of this can be attributed to Andrea Berta, the team’s new sporting director, who joined from Atletico Madrid.
- Benge: "The revamping of Arsenal is largely thanks to Andrea Berta. While it’s an oversimplification to attribute a club’s successes or failures in the transfer market solely to one individual, Arsenal’s past successes have depended on a blend of data-driven scouting and a clear vision. This summer, CEO Vinai Venkatesham emphasized the need for changes following Berta’s arrival. While it’s difficult for a club of Arsenal’s caliber to fully shield its operations, they have yet to clarify whether players like Benjamin Sesko or the Swede were under consideration before Gyökeres’ major move."
Midfield Focus
Is Gio Reyna heading to Serie A?
Sky Italia reports advanced discussions regarding Gio Reyna’s transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Parma. The Italian club, owned by American Kyle Klaus since September 2020, has been undergoing a rebuilding phase. This summer, Parma appointed the youngest coach in Serie A history, Carlo Squerita, to replace Christian Mista.
Reyna has reportedly agreed to a four-year deal until summer 2029 while clubs negotiate transfer fees, with Parma proposing around $7 million. As he seeks to shine in a new environment, Serie A could be an ideal league for him, following in the footsteps of fellow Americans Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie.
In other transfer rumors, Inter Miami is reportedly aiming to sign Rodrigo De Paul from Atletico Madrid, as the two clubs have come to an agreement. De Paul would be joining his national teammate Lionel Messi, potentially increasing the team’s attacking options. Last season at Atletico, De Paul played 53 matches, scoring three goals and assisting 10.
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Arsenal’s Aggressive Transfer Window: James Benge dissects Arsenal’s tactics and what to expect this summer.
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Betting Insights
Serie A Championship Odds
Pick: Napoli to win the title (+195). With the current competition, Napoli remains a strong contender for another title, even with managerial changes at other clubs.
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Fan Take: These developments highlight a surge of American talent moving to top European leagues, which not only elevates their careers but also enhances the U.S. Men’s National Team’s profile on the world stage. Such transitions signal a promising future for American soccer, potentially leading to greater success in international competitions.