Arsenal still to bid for Bruno Guimaraes as Chelsea agree Chavarria deal and sign Barco

The transfer market is heating up ahead of the 2026-27 season, and the biggest stories from 2 August are dominated by Arsenal, Chelsea and plenty of midfield movement. Arsenal have not yet made a formal offer for Bruno Guimaraes. Newcastle are reportedly still waiting for an official approach, despite reports claiming a deal worth more than €90m is close. Chelsea, meanwhile, have agreed a €25m move for Pep Chavarria. The Blues are also planning to keep Joao Pedro, who is of interest to Arsenal. Arsenal are prepared to pay over €100m, but Chelsea have no intention of selling and are expected to offer him a new contract. Elsewhere, Manchester United are exploring a deal for Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly. Chelsea wonderkid Reggie Walsh is close to leaving on a season-long loan, while Joshua Zirkzee is open to a move away from United after saying yes to a potential suitor. Celtic are preparing a fresh bid for Gvidas Gineitis, who is valued at €15m by Torino. Mohamed Salah has also made a significant transfer demand as clubs in Turkey monitor his situation. Chelsea have also completed one piece of official business: the signing of Strasbourg midfielder Valentin Barco.