The window is shut—but the deals keep coming: Friday’s post-deadline transfer stories

Vardy at 39, Martial at 30 and Zaha at 33: Football’s free agent class of September 2026… Plus Everton’s striker crisis, Estevao’s Chelsea fears and Sancho’s UAE offer

EVERTON EYE VARDY AND MARTIAL AS FREE AGENT STRIKER OPTIONS

Everton are considering a move for veteran England forward Jamie Vardy, 39, after failing to secure a striker before Tuesday’s transfer deadline, according to The Sun. Vardy is available as a free agent after departing Italian club Cremonese. David Moyes’ side are also exploring a move for former France and Manchester United striker Anthony Martial, 30, who is equally available after leaving Mexican side Monterrey, according to Talksport. The twin pursuits reflect Everton’s urgent need for attacking reinforcement after the window shut without a senior striker addition.

AC MILAN EYE WILFRIED ZAHA AS FREE AGENT WIDE OPTION

AC Milan are considering a move for Ivory Coast winger Wilfried Zaha, 33, as they look to add a free agent to bolster the left side of their attack, according to Gazzetta dello Sport. Zaha — who left Crystal Palace in 2023 — has been without a club and would bring Premier League experience and direct dribbling ability to Ruben Amorim’s squad.

ESTEVAO ALREADY WORRIED ABOUT CHELSEA FUTURE UNDER ALONSO

Brazil attacking midfielder Estevao Willian, 19, is concerned about his first-team opportunities at Chelsea under manager Xabi Alonso and is already reflecting on a potential January move if his situation does not improve, according to ESPN Brazil. The teenage Brazilian joined Chelsea from Palmeiras in the summer amid enormous fanfare but has found first-team minutes harder to come by than anticipated.

ARSENAL SECURE NWANERI RECALL OPTION FROM DORTMUND LOAN

Arsenal have secured an option to recall 19-year-old England Under-21 winger Ethan Nwaneri from his season-long loan at Borussia Dortmund in January if the club requires his services, according to Sky Sports Germany. The clause gives Mikel Arteta flexibility to bring back one of the club’s most exciting academy prospects mid-season if injuries or form require it.

SUNDERLAND’S TALBI IN TALKS WITH AL-ITTIHAD

Sunderland winger Chemsdine Talbi, 21, is in talks with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad, with Turkish giants Fenerbahce and Galatasaray also interested in the Morocco international, according to Talksport. Talbi’s potential departure would represent a significant loss for Sunderland as they prepare for European competition this season.

SANCHO LINKED WITH UAE SECOND-TIER CLUB MANAGED BY SHELVEY

Former Manchester United and England winger Jadon Sancho, 26, has been targeted by Arabian Falcons — a UAE second-tier club managed by former Premier League midfielder Jonjo Shelvey, according to the Daily Mirror. The link represents a dramatic potential fall from grace for Sancho, who was once considered one of European football’s most exciting young talents before a turbulent spell at Old Trafford derailed his career.

LAUTARO: IT WAS AN HONOUR BUT INTER IS HOME

Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez, 29, has confirmed he had no intention of leaving the club despite Barcelona’s interest this summer, according to Sky Sports Italia. “It was an honour to have attracted interest from Barcelona,” Martinez said — before making clear that Inter Milan remains his home and that he is focused entirely on helping the Italian champions defend their Serie A title.