Spurs ready to hijack £15m Aston Villa deal as Chelsea plot fresh striker swoop

We begin Thursday’s Premier League transfer rumour roundup with news of the ongoing tussle to lure USA international midfielder Weston McKennie back to the Premier League. The Juventus star was previously on the books at Leeds United, and has emerged as a prospective target for Aston Villa, with suggestions that he could be used as a makeweight in a swap agreement involving current Villa talent Douglas Luiz.

According to Football Insider, however, talks to that effect have stalled, allowing other clubs to enter the race for McKennie’s signature. To that end, Tottenham have entered proceedings, and are now said to be in ‘pole position’ for the 25-year-old. It is understood that talks are underway regarding a £15 million transfer.

The 3AM Verdict: The Luiz/McKennie situation is a complex one that has been simmering away in the background for some time now, but it would appear that Spurs are willing to swoop in with a much simpler solution. A fee of around £15 million would be a steal for a player of McKennie’s quality, and the hope will be that he can add strength in depth to Ange Postecoglou’s squad.

Liverpool plot double defender raid

Elsewhere, Caught Offside report that Liverpool are considering signing two new centre-backs in the coming weeks, and have established a five-man shortlist to reinforce the heart of their defence. It is understood that Leny Yoro, Goncalo Inacio, Riccardo Calafiori, Marc Guehi, and Jean-Clair Todibo all attracting interest from Anfield, with transfer chiefs willing to back new manager Arne Slot substantially in the market.

Of that quintet, Inacio is said to be the Reds’ main target, with the Sporting CP star expected to entertain the idea of a departure having decided against a move away from the Portuguese capital in January. Crystal Palace talisman Guehi is set to be monitored closely during his time with England at Euro 2024.

The 3AM Verdict: Liverpool could certainly use a recruit or two at the heart of defence, and supporters of the club will be pleased to see the calibre of candidate being linked with Anfield. Any two of that reported quintet would represent really good pieces of business, and the hope will be that they can wrap deal quickly and effectively.

Chelsea eye Omorodion

And finally, Chelsea have reportedly added Atletico Madrid striker Samu Omorodion to their list of summer striker targets. As per ESPN, the Blues are keen on the 20-year-old, who spent last season out on loan at Alaves, scoring nine goals in 36 outings in the process.

It is understood that Chelsea have indicated a willingness to pay around £33.8 million for the starlet, but Atletico are said to value him ‘significantly higher’. It remains to be seen whether or not the Blues will push ahead with their interest.

The 3AM Verdict: Omorodion is evidently a talent with plenty of potential, but whether he is the striker that Chelsea need right now is a matter of some debate. The Blues could really use a proven goal-scorer, and the 20-year-old’s record last season was hardly anything to write home about. Still, there could be plenty of merit to bringing him to Stamford Bridge - especially with one eye on the future.