Premier League Latest: Joao Pedro Hits Hat-Trick, Rodri Undergoes Surgery and Transfer Updates

Premier League clubs are stepping up preparations for the 2026/27 season, with major developments emerging from pre-season matches, injury updates and the summer transfer market.

Joao Pedro produced a stunning hat-trick for Chelsea, Manchester City confirmed surgery for Rodri, while several high-profile players continue to feature in transfer speculation.

Here are the key Premier League updates.

Joao Pedro Scores Nine-Minute Hat-Trick for Chelsea

Chelsea were involved in a remarkable 10-goal pre-season friendly as they defeated Western Sydney Warriors 6-4 in Australia.

Joao Pedro stole the headlines after coming on as a substitute in the 64th minute.

The Brazilian striker scored a hat-trick in just nine minutes and also provided an assist, continuing the form that saw him finish as Chelsea’s leading Premier League scorer last season with 15 goals.

Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso praised the forward’s hunger and determination ahead of the new campaign.

Chelsea’s next pre-season test in Australia will be against London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in Sydney.

Manchester City Confirm Rodri Back Surgery

Manchester City have confirmed that Rodri successfully underwent minor back surgery after experiencing discomfort.

The midfielder will now begin a short period of rehabilitation.

Rodri remains one of City’s most influential players. Since his arrival from Atletico Madrid in 2019, Manchester City have recorded a 71.4 per cent win rate when he plays, compared with 60 per cent when he is absent.

City have also conceded an average of 0.84 goals per match with Rodri and 1.07 without him, highlighting his importance to the team.

Stones, Salah and Sancho Feature in Transfer Reports

Several well-known free agents continue to attract attention.

Former Manchester City defender John Stones has been linked with a free transfer to Inter Milan after leaving the Etihad Stadium.

Mohamed Salah is also without a club after his Liverpool departure. Besiktas have been linked with the Egyptian forward, although reports suggest a possible move to Istanbul has faced complications.

Jadon Sancho remains available following the expiry of his Manchester United contract, with Qatari club Al-Rayyan among the teams linked with the winger.

These moves remain transfer reports rather than confirmed deals.

Ipswich Sign 2.06m Goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen

Ipswich Town have strengthened their goalkeeping options by signing Kjell Scherpen from Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise on a four-year contract running until 2030.

Standing at 2.06 metres, the Dutch goalkeeper becomes the tallest player in Premier League history.

Scherpen impressed in Belgium last season, recording a league-high 16 clean sheets and a save percentage of 74.7 per cent.

Andrey Santos Impresses Manchester United Team-Mates

Andrey Santos has made a strong early impression at Manchester United following his move from Chelsea.

Mason Mount praised the Brazilian midfielder’s ability to read the game and his defensive qualities, while Harry Maguire highlighted how quickly the youngster has settled into the squad.

Santos is expected to provide United with another important midfield option for the new season.

Arbeloa Begins New Era at Fulham

Fulham are also preparing for a fresh chapter under new head coach Alvaro Arbeloa.

The Spaniard, who succeeded Marco Silva in July, has placed a strong emphasis on pressing during pre-season training and has been working closely with individual players to implement his tactical ideas.

Premier League Preparations Gather Pace

With the 2026/27 Premier League season approaching, clubs are continuing to fine-tune their squads through pre-season matches, transfers and tactical adjustments.

Joao Pedro’s impressive form, Rodri’s recovery and further developments in the summer transfer market are set to remain major talking points as the new campaign draws closer.