Society Gists

Here are the top transfer-related stories in Thursday’s newspapers and online…

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger wants to bring in a superstar striker before the end of the transfer window – with Robert Lewandowski and Antoine Griezmann his top targets. The Gunners chief is desperate for a forward and willing to spend big on either of the pair – who will cost more than £60m. (The Sun)

Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil would jump at the chance to return to his former club Real Madrid. Ozil is determined to wait and consider his options before committing to a new deal with the Gunners and feels he has unfinished business at Real. (Bild)

Riyad Mahrez has accepted he will not be allowed to leave Leicester this month after talks between his representatives and the Premier League champions’ director of football on Wednesday. Mahrez expressed his desire to move last month after turning down a new contract and Arsenal have been tipped to make a £35m move. But the Algerian won’t be going anywhere this summer. (The Guardian)

Tottenham’s attempt to sign Georges-Kévin Nkoudou is on the brink of collapse after a breakdown in negotiations with Marseille over the £11m winger. (The Guardian)

Yannick Bolasie is set to land a bumper £20million five-year contract at Everton. The Crystal Palace attacking ace is expected to complete his £25m move to Goodison Park in the next 24 hours. (Daily Mirror)

Crystal Palace are eyeing a move for ex-Real Madrid defender Daniel Opare. The 25-year-old right-back will be allowed to leave Augsburg on a free this summer after a year in the Bundesliga. (The Sun)

Adnan Januzaj feels humiliated by his treatment by Manchester United and is in no rush to comply with their wishes for him to join Sunderland on loan. The Belgian international prefers the prospect of a loan move to Serie A or La Liga instead. (Independent)

Galatasaray have confirmed making an offer for Manchester City defender Jason Denayer. The 21-year-old is understood to be considering his future at The Etihad after becoming concerned at the lack of opportunities given to him by new manager Pep Guardiola. (Manchester Evening News)

Jurgen Klopp has blocked Galatasaray’s bid to sign Lucas from Liverpool. Gala felt they had a deal in place to sign Lucas, who is Liverpool’s longest-serving player, and were waiting for him to give them his decision. But Klopp has vetoed the Brazilian midfielder’s departure because he is worried it would have left him short because of his various injury concerns. (Daily Mirror)

Leeds United are close to signing Bristol City defender Luke Ayling on a three-year deal. The 24-year-old right-back, who can also play in the centre of defence, has undergone a medical and looks set to become United’s eighth new signing in the next 24 hours. (Yorkshire Evening Post)