English Premier League

Arsenal hunt for midfield options, the stumbling block in Jean-Philippe Mateta’s move to AC Milan – and Wolves agree deal for Jorgen Strand Larsen replacement: TRANSFER WINDOW WATCH

February 2, 2026

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Arsenal hunt for midfield options, the stumbling block in Jean-Philippe Mateta’s move to AC Milan – and Wolves agree deal for Jorgen Strand Larsen replacement: TRANSFER WINDOW WATCH

The transfer window is open and here are all the developments from Daily Mail Sport’s Simon Jones – including the reason why Jean-Philippe Mateta is yet to join AC Milan, why Arsenal are dipping into the market, and the man who will replace Jorgen Strand Larsen at Wolves.

Mateta move in doubt

Crystal Palace made their anticipated big money move for Jorgen Strand Larsen by agreeing a revised £43million fee with Wolves for the striker plus a further £5m in add-ons.

However, the knock-on sale of Jean-Philippe Mateta to AC Milan was delayed after the Italian side asked for further reports following his medical.

Talks over Strand Larsen had been paused last week after a disagreement on the structure of the add-ons. Yet Wolves were receptive to Palace’s compromise and the Norway international headed for a medical last night.

The agreement opened the door for Mateta’s £30m move to Milan. The 28-year-old had expressed frustration via his Instagram on Saturday night after being forced to wait on Larsen’s arrival, but the Frenchman was given permission to travel for a medical.

However, Milan brought extra drama to proceedings by asking for their club doctor to carry out further reports following initial medical tests.

Jean-Philippe Mateta’s move to AC Milan has been thrown into doubt following his medical

Strand Larsen’s replacement

Wolves have agreed a £9m deal with Southampton for striker Adam Armstrong to fill the void left by Larsen’s sale.

Armstrong will have a medical on Monday with Wolves paying £7m plus £2m in bonuses.

Wolves are also closing in the loan signing of Marseille midfielder Angel Gomes. He will join on an initial loan for £800,000 with an option to buy at £6m.

Wolves have moved on from Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips as it stands. Burnley also explored a deal for the 30-year-old but have paused talks.

Gunners in the market

Arsenal are looking for last-minute midfield options with Mikel Merino likely to miss most of the season with a broken foot.

The 29-year-old is due to undergo surgery this week.

Blues youngster heading to Merseyside

Chelsea forward Tyrique George is poised to join Everton after the clubs agreed a loan with option to buy in principle for the 19-year-old.

Everton also retain an interest in Fulham’s Harry Wilson who is out of contract in the summer.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are recalling centre back Mamadou Sarr from Strasbourg on Monday and are sending Aaron Anselmino the other way.

Striker David Datro Fofana is also joining Strasbourg on loan as cover for the injured Emmanuel Emegha.

Arsenal are in the market for a new midfielder after Mikel Merino suffered a broken foot

Cottagers’ striker search

Fulham have made an improved £30m bid for PSV striker Ricardo Pepi.

The Cottagers have been dogged in their pursuit of the USA international who is back training after having surgery on a fractured arm.

PSV have been holding out for a greater fee and wanted to find a replacement before letting the 22-year-old leave. That may yet scupper Fulham’s plans.

Forest looking to spend

Nottingham Forest have made an enquiry for Fiorentina left wing back Robin Gosens, 31.

Forest had earlier had a £14m bid for Celtic midfielder Arne Engels rejected. They turned to the versatile Belgian after Inter Milan’s Davide Frattesi stalled on a move to the Premier League.

Between the sticks at the Stadium of Light

Sunderland signed Malmo goalkeeper Melker Ellborg, subject to international clearance for £3.4m.

His arrival allowed Anthony Patterson to join Millwall.

West Ham goalkeeper Mads Hermansen, meanwhile, is wanted back by Leicester City on loan while Besiktas are also interested but West Ham need to get a keeper in first.