Sunday’s newspapers threw up one of the more eye-catching lines of the summer reports that Tottenham captain Cristian Romero would be open to crossing the north London divide to join Arsenal, even as Spurs insist any such move is off the table. As always with paper talk, these stories are transfer speculation and gossip rather than confirmed reporting, but here’s what’s being said across today’s back pages.
Romero Reportedly Open to Arsenal Move
According to the Sunday Mirror, Cristian Romero would be willing to consider a switch to Arsenal this summer, despite the obvious rivalry involved in swapping one half of north London for the other. Tottenham, however, are said to be firm in their stance that their captain and defensive lynchpin will not be sold to their fiercest rivals under any circumstances.
Arsenal Turn Attention to Kenan Yildiz
The same Sunday Mirror report suggests Arsenal have renewed their interest in Juventus winger Kenan Yildiz, following the collapse of their pursuit of Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior earlier in the window. It would mark another attempt by Arsenal to add genuine quality out wide after missing out on their two most ambitious targets in that area this summer.
Everton and Palace Discuss McNeil-Johnson Swap
The Mail on Sunday reports that Everton and Crystal Palace have opened discussions over a potential swap deal involving Dwight McNeil and Brennan Johnson, a move that would see both wingers switch clubs as each side looks to freshen up their options on the flanks.
Barcelona Confident on Rodri Compromise
Elsewhere, the Mail on Sunday reports Barcelona believe they can find common ground with Manchester City over a fee for Rodri, who City are said to value at around £68 million, with the Catalan club reportedly preparing to return with a revised offer.
Maresca to Handpick City Captain
Still with Manchester City, the Mail on Sunday reports that head coach Enzo Maresca intends to select his new club captain personally rather than leave the decision to a squad vote, with a stated preference for bringing more English influence into his leadership group.
Other Headlines
In Scottish football, the Scottish Sun reports Rangers have submitted an improved offer for PSV Eindhoven winger Couhaib Driouech, while also suggesting Greg Taylor could be open to a surprise return to Celtic, just a year after leaving Parkhead for PAOK. In non-league news, former Premier League striker Andy Carroll was sent off for an off-the-ball incident during Dagenham & Redbridge’s opening game of the season, according to The Sun.
Quick Facts: Sunday’s Paper Talk
- Romero to Arsenal: Player reportedly open; Spurs say not for sale (Sunday Mirror)
- Arsenal’s new winger target: Kenan Yildiz (Juventus) — Sunday Mirror
- Potential swap deal: Dwight McNeil (Everton) ↔ Brennan Johnson (Crystal Palace) — Mail on Sunday
- Rodri valuation: ~£68m, Barcelona preparing revised bid — Mail on Sunday
- Rangers target: Couhaib Driouech (PSV Eindhoven) — Scottish Sun
