Thursday’s transfer news: Lionel Messi ‘never been closer’ to leaving Barcelona, Arsenal close on Gabriel, Manchester United stall on Jadon Sancho terms

Review all Thursday's transfer news as Premier League clubs look to strengthen ahead of the new campaign, which begins in just over three weeks’ time. Lionel Messi’s future is no closer to being resolved despite the appointment of Ronald Koeman as Barcelona head coach, with the 33-year-old having become unhappy at the Nou Camp and Manchester City interested in swooping for him.

Jose Mourinho is reportedly keen on bringing Gareth Bale back to Tottenham, with the winger having been in a feud with Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane for some time now. Chelsea are also primed for a big-name signing, expecting to agree a deal to sign Bayer Leverkusen’s Kai Havertz before the end of the week.

Manchester United continue their chase of Jadon Sancho, with personal terms proving the issue at the moment in securing the services of the Borussia Dortmund man. Follow live updates below.

United are also understood to be keeping an eye on Juventus winger Douglas Costa, while West Ham could see Lazio come in for their former player Felipe Anderson, who faces an uncertain future at the London Stadium as David Moyes contemplates a squad revamp.