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How Chelsea and Liverpool saw approaches for key players blocked
02nd September, 2026 01:24 PM
In yet another closure to the English Premier League transfer window, English top-flight teams attempted to cross the enemy lines for much-needed squad strengthening or for key departments through either straight permanent deals or loan deals before the transfer window closed on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.
Whether to simply test their rivals’ resolve or endeavour to meet a gaping gap in personnel, there was plenty of drama on the final day as several Premier League heavyweights unsuccessfully attempted to raid their top-flight rivals in the frantic final moments.
Here are some of the clubs that approached direct rivals within the big six for possible deals.
Liverpool attempt to sign Gusto
Andonir Irola’s Liverpool made a late push to sign Chelsea’s 23-year-old right-back Malo Gusto on loan to reinforce their backline, according to reports.
The move, however, collapsed as Chelsea insisted on a permanent sale that the Reds could not financially accommodate, having spent too much to balance and reinforce their other department.
The Merseyside club considerably amounts of good fortunes to bring in Bradley Barcola, who is now the second-most expensive signing in Liverpool’s history.
Chelsea try to sign Zubimendi
Meanwhile, Chelsea found themselves on the receiving end of transfer rejections as well; seeking a replacement for Enzo Fernández following his move to Manchester City, the Blues had an inquiry for 27-year-old Spanish midfielder Martín Zubimendi, which was curtly turned down by Arsenal.
The Gunners have recruited massively and appear to have adequate cover in midfield with Bruno Guimaraes and Myles Lewis-Skelly and Declan Rice, among others, but could not allow the former Real Sociedad winger to cross the London enemy lines, pulling the plugs on the deal.
A return to South Coast club AFC Bournemouth for midfielder Alex Scott was also rejected as the Cherries held firm in refusing to entertain any deadline-day offers for their 23-year-old English midfielder.
Lamine Camara collapsed deal
This comes amid confirmed details of how Chelsea’s deal to sign midfielder Lamine Camara from Monaco collapses after a last-minute hitch in negotiations between the two clubs.
The tough-tackling Senegalese midfielder had been lined up as a replacement for Enzo Fernández, who completed a record-breaking deadline-day move to Manchester City. However, Xabi Alonso’s side was left frustrated in its pursuit after facing a late setback that thwarted the deal.
According to reports, the Blues had verbally agreed to a Ksh8.22 billion (£47m) deal with Monaco to sign the star and proceeded to conduct his medicals with permission from the French Ligue 1 side.
Camara had already agreed to terms with Chelsea on a six-year contract, with an option for a further 12 months.
