Osuchukwu walks for Bilbao
Darlington Osuchukwu has left. The 16-year-old academy goalkeeper signed for Athletic Bilbao on a free transfer (1). Borussia Dortmund, Lille, Anderlecht, FC Copenhagen, Barcelona, and Crystal Palace all showed interest, but Bilbao won the race. He joins a club that has Unai Simon and Kepa Arrizabalaga ahead of him, and the legacy of José Ángel Iribar looming over the position. You have lost one of the academy's brighter goalkeeper prospects for nothing.
Summerville says yes to Roma
Crysencio Summerville, your first-choice target to replace Marcus Rashford, has agreed personal terms with AS Roma (2). The Dutch winger wants the move. West Ham and Roma still need to agree a fee, so the deal is not done, but the player's preference is now clear. That puts United's summer plans under pressure. The club identified Summerville as the Rashford successor and may now need to pivot.
Bowen commits to West Ham
Jarrod Bowen is staying at West Ham. The forward has signed a revised contract committing him to the 2026/27 season, despite interest from United and Chelsea (3). Another attacking target off the table. INEOS and Michael Carrick will have to look elsewhere.
Fan reactions
The mood is mixed but leaning pragmatic. A travelling squad for Helsinki has been confirmed, and fans are excited to see Andrey Santos, with even the club's Brazilian twins sending him a message of support. The bigger conversation, though, is about Michael Carrick. Simon Stone's piece arguing United were right not to wait for a World Cup manager has supporters nodding along, the consensus is that Carrick has brought stability after the chaos. Read the discussion here.
