Everton insist Lukaku is not for sale

Everton have pulled Romelu Lukaku off the market, according to the Daily Mail. The report says that Everton will not consider offers due to Chelsea's public pursuit of Lukaku and John Stones last season, which has unimpressed the Toffees. It comes as Everton are aware of dialogue between Chelsea and Lukaku's agent Mino Raiola, as they believe the London club are trying to destabilise and unsettle the player during what they claim to be a 'crucial time in the club's period'.

Paper Round's view: Unless there was a severe breach of conduct, Everton are leaving us to read between the lines of Chelsea's alleged deeds in trying to sign players. On face value, it's pretty clear Everton in both situations have been holding all the cards with both Stones and Lukaku in contract, so perhaps it's merely sour grapes at potentially losing good, young talent.

Madrid feud over Nemanja Matic and Moussa Sissoko

Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane and president Florentino Perez are at odds over midfield reinforcements, according to the Evening Standard. The report says Zidane wants to sign Nemanja Matic, while Florentino Perez wants the club to sign Newcastle's Moussa Sissoko. Both players are valued by Madrid at £34 million, with Zidane holding talks with Perez during the week to resolve the issue.

Stoke City's Erik Pieters and Newcastle's Moussa Sissoko Image credit: Reuters

Paper Round's view: It's an odd argument to get drawn into, especially considering the names that Madrid are usually debating to sign. The reality is despite Madrid's Champions League win, the squad especially during the La Liga season lacked a cool-headed defensive anchor when things got tough. Siding with Zidane on this one, as Matic would fit the needs of the team better than Sissoko.

Leicester with shock £25 million move for Gabriel Barbosa

Leicester City will launch a £25 million bid for Santos' Gabriel Barbosa, according to the Sun. The report says that the Foxes are targeting the 19-year-old striker, as plenty of Europe's top clubs chase the hot prospect. Barcelona, Juventus, Inter Milan, Manchester United and a host of some of Europe's elite trying to court the player, with Santos chiefs set to sit down with Leicester City officials next week in England.

Gabriel Barbosa Gabigol (right) Image credit: Eurosport

Paper Round's view: Would be an incredible coup for Leicester City, as the cast of interested parties suggests that Barbosa has a lot to offer whoever makes the purchase. The problem for Leicester is, they could be priced out as it's clear that £25 million fee will skyrocket with all those teams with deep pockets bidding.

Andre Ayew set for £20 million West Ham move

Andre Ayew is on the verge of joining West Ham for £20 million, according to the Evening Standard. Swansea are yet to formally accept West Ham's bid, but the Swans are by all reports accepting that the player will be moving on. It comes as manager Slaven Bilic claims he'll be able to bring in a minimum of five players by the end of the transfer window, with striker and left-back positions marked as priorities.

Andre Ayew in pre-season action with Swansea Image credit: Reuters