Crystal Palace have entered talks to sign Club Brugge centre-back Joel Ordóñez, challenging Aston Villa's pursuit of the Ecuadorian international. The development has prompted Aston Villa to seek alternatives, with West Ham's Jean-Clair Todibo emerging as a primary target, according to reports.
Palace move forces Villa to pivot
Palace's intervention in the Ordóñez deal has complicated Aston Villa's transfer plans. Unai Emery's side are now exploring a move for Todibo, who is reportedly available for transfer from West Ham. The Eagles are also considering a surprise move for Marseille's Quinten Timber, brother of Jurrien Timber, as they look to strengthen their squad before the window closes.
Aston Villa are also dealing with potential departures, with Ollie Watkins reportedly on his way out and Nicolas Jackson expected to arrive. The club's transfer strategy remains in flux as they balance incomings and outgoings.
Chelsea eye Martínez as Sánchez struggles continue
Chelsea may be preparing a bid for Aston Villa's second-choice goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who has been displaced by Zion Suzuki, following Robert Sánchez's latest error. The Stamford Bridge club are reportedly considering a move to bolster their goalkeeping options.
In other news, Honest Ahanor is set to join Bayer Leverkusen after an agreement was reached with Atalanta for the defender.
Brighton, Sunderland target young talent
Brighton are continuing their recruitment strategy focused on young players, with Deportivo Cali's Matias Orozco, 18, a target. The Seagulls would likely loan him out immediately to continue his development. Peterborough forward Bolu Shofowoke is also on Brighton's wanted list.
Sunderland are seeking more attacking options, with Jack Grealish interesting Aston Villa and Everton, and Marseille's Igor Paixão a target. Talks have been held with Marseille regarding Paixão, while Sunderland have also spoken to Sporting about Geny Catamo, who has three assists in his first three league games in Portugal.
Everton, Forest, and Championship moves
Everton are contemplating a move for Midtjylland's Franculino Djú. The Guinea-Bissau international has been prolific in Denmark and could shine in the Premier League.
Nottingham Forest may sell understudy centre-back Morato to Roma. Forest are also in the market for a right wing-back, with Dodô a potential target if a deal for Celta Vigo's Javi Rueda collapses.
James Ward-Prowse, who has struggled since leaving Southampton in 2023, could return to St Mary's. The midfielder was loaned to Forest and Burnley from West Ham and has rarely been popular with manager Nuno Espírito Santo.
In the Championship, Wolves are set to sign goalkeeper João Virginia from Sporting. The 26-year-old has only 23 league appearances in his career but continues to secure moves.
