Key issues to watch with one week to go in the transfer window

Isak's transfer stand-off makes bookmakers favour him staying at Newcastle through the deadline; punters could back Newcastle to keep Isak and target late-market value on Guehi or Wissa moves. Expect volatility after key fixtures — small stakes on last-day transfers and futures (Isak stays; Guehi to Liverpool) could offer best value.

Transfer Deadline Week: Record Spending and Final-Frenzy

The summer window enters its final week with Monday's 7 p.m. BST deadline looming. Clubs have spent heavily this summer and the 2023 British transfer record of £2.36bn looks likely to be broken before the window slams shut. Early-season performances have intensified demand, and the next seven days promise frantic business and last-minute drama.

Isak Transfer Saga

Record-Breaking Potential and Standoff

Alexander Isak's future has dominated the market. The Sweden international wants to leave Newcastle and has trained apart from the first team, but Newcastle have repeatedly insisted he is not for sale. Liverpool lodged a £110m offer on Aug. 1 that Newcastle rejected, and no second bid has followed. With limited time to find a replacement, the balance of probability currently favors Isak staying — though matches between the clubs could alter momentum.

Manchester United: Who Will Move on Deadline Day?

Manchester United remain under pressure to raise funds but have yet to bank significant sales. Marcus Rashford’s loan reduced the wage bill without generating transfer income, while players exiled from the first team have struggled to secure exits. Alejandro Garnacho and Jadon Sancho are among the names linked with moves, with valuations and wage demands proving sticking points. As time runs out, United may be forced to lower asking prices to complete deals.

Brentford and Wissa

Bryan Mbeumo’s exit has left Brentford reluctant to lose another forward. Neal Maupay/Wissa (featured forward) has been training separately and could move if Newcastle increases a reported opening offer near £35m plus add-ons. Wissa’s fate is closely tied to Isak: if Newcastle sell Isak, their urgency to recruit increases and Brentford’s valuation may rise accordingly.

Guehi: Contract Timeline and Premier Interest

Palace captain Marc Guehi could be a major deadline storyline. With his contract running down next summer, the club prefers to recoup funds rather than lose him for free. Liverpool appear to be the frontrunners given their need for centre-back cover, though Manchester City have also shown interest and could act quickly if they sell centre-back assets this week.

Fernandes and Saudi Interest

Bruno Fernandes reportedly rebuffed a Saudi offer in the summer but renewed interest from Saudi clubs has surfaced. A mega-offer would present Manchester United with a major decision: keep their captain and creative fulcrum or accept a windfall that would fund several late reinforcements. For now, a move looks unlikely but remains a live storyline if a substantial bid arrives.

City: Winger Moves and Goalkeeper Shuffle

Manchester City are juggling options on the wings and in goal. City have considered moving young winger Savinho to free space — Tottenham are among the interested parties — which could unlock funds for a marquee wide forward. In goal, a potential move for Gianluigi Donnarumma is contingent on City selling Ederson. Ederson’s exit would clear the path to recruit Donnarumma as Guardiola seeks long-term options between the posts.

Late-Window Mechanics: Who Benefits and Who Pays?

Clubs under time pressure may concede on prices; sellers with bargaining power (contract length, replacement options) will hold firm. Expect transfer fees to oscillate in the closing days as tactical decisions — sell now to avoid losing a player for free next summer, or hold and risk unrest — determine moves.

Betting Implications and Market Moves

Isak’s likely stay at Newcastle shortens odds on him remaining; punters should look for value on “stays” markets rather than expensive long-shot transfers. Guehi-to-Liverpool markets may shorten if City move a centre-back, so monitor linked sales for price shifts. Last-day transfer markets often see sudden liquidity and odds movement; consider small stakes on deadline-day arrivals and re-evaluate after key fixtures that could trigger late bids.

What to Watch in the Final 72 Hours

Key triggers include head-to-head fixtures, late financial bids for marquee players, and clubs’ willingness to accept cut-price deals as the clock winds down. Expect statements of intent, last-minute bids and a flurry of medical-room updates as the window reaches its climax.

There is one week to go before the transfer window closes on Sept. 1 and Liverpool, Man United, Tottenham and Man City are all going to be busy.

Espn United Kingdom