Chelsea has successfully outmaneuvered North London rival Arsenal to secure the signing of Aston Villa's 23-year-old playmaker Morgan Rogers, as reported by SunSport on July 20, 2026.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta made Rogers his primary attacking target and held direct conversations with the midfielder regarding a potential move to the Emirates Stadium.
However, personal intervention from new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso ultimately convinced the England international to choose Stamford Bridge, where he is projected to play along the left wing alongside Cole Palmer.
Arsenal Completes Elijah Upson Signing
Arsenal successfully completed the signing of 18-year-old defender Elijah Upson from Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday after the England Under-18 international rejected a contract extension with Spurs.
Upson, who is the son of former Gunners defender Matthew Upson, visited Arsenal's training ground with his family before agreeing to terms on a long-term contract.
Keown Analyzes Arsenal's Transfer Needs
Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown analyzed the club's current tactical requirements during an appearance on talkSPORT.
"I think Arsenal need another midfield player, someone who can control things," said Keown.
Keown highlighted additional areas of focus for the squad ahead of the upcoming season.
"I think they need a left winger.
You could say, they might go into the transfer market for a striker – I wouldn’t put it past them," said Keown.
He emphasized the critical importance of maintaining stability within the existing squad structure.
"Most players will want to sign for Arsenal, but the most important thing is to get the people who are successful to re-sign their contracts," said Keown.
Keown advised the club to build upon its current core squad before making further additions.
"Keep them on board, build what you have got, and then, add real quality to it.
It has to be quality because we are talking about the champions," said Keown.
Addressing rumors regarding potential targets, Keown dismissed the possibility of pursuing Marcus Rashford.
"I don’t see that. I’d be surprised if that happened," said Keown.
He commented on Rashford's previous spell at Villa Park and financial constraints.
"I thought Rashford did well for Aston Villa. They didn’t have the money to buy him," said Keown.
Keown further reflected on off-field discussions regarding the forward's trajectory.
"I just think he went off the rails. Lots of talk behind the scenes of potential issues," said Keown.
He noted the prospect of Rashford returning to Manchester United under Michael Carrick.
"I think he’s back on track now, and it is an interesting one when he goes back to Manchester United with Carrick," said Keown.
Keown raised questions regarding the player's residential environment.
"Does he welcome him back in? There is talk of him living in the city again.
Is that a problem?" said Keown.
He concluded his analysis by focusing on the forward's playing career potential.
"But I think he’s back on keel, and you really want to see these players play at their best.
It is a short career, so get out there and play," said Keown.
Meanwhile, Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka achieved a hat-trick in England's 6-4 victory against France in the World Cup third-place play-off match.
Following his limited participation during the tournament, Saka spoke to BBC Sport about his readiness.
"Of course, I would love to have played more but it’s too late to talk about that.
I try to do my talking on the pitch and it’s done now, so let’s move on. I’m fit," said Saka.
Additionally, Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil publicly shut down transfer speculation linking forward Julian Alvarez with a move to Arsenal or Barcelona.
"My position is clear, the club’s position is clear. We’ve made it known to the player, his representatives, and the president of Barcelona," said Gil.
Gil reaffirmed the Spanish club's commitment to retaining the Argentine forward.
"I have absolutely no doubt that Atlético is the right place in the world for Julián, and that Julián is the perfect centre-forward for Atlético Madrid.
We want to keep him," said Gil.
He addressed recent statements from rival executives regarding financial negotiations.
"I recently heard the president say that the offer he made to Atlético Madrid wasn’t unlimited. My only response is that our answer is unlimited," said Gil.
Gil confirmed that substantial monetary bids were rejected by Atletico Madrid.
"We didn’t accept an offer of €100 million, and we won’t accept one of €150 million or even €200 million," said Gil.
