Today's PL summary — 1 Oct 2026

Here is FTZ's pick of the hottest Premier League stories from 1 Oct 2026.

1. Former Manchester United and England defender Chris Smalling has signed for Portuguese league leaders Porto after being without a club since leaving Al-Fayha in the summer. He has signed a contract until the end of the season with the option for a further year.

2. Wantaway Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel is training individually with a private coach in Barcelona as he seeks to leave Old Trafford before he turns 16 on October 6th.

3. Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly both interested in Benfica centre-back Tomas Araujo, who has a £68m release clause in his contract.

4. Sources: Chelsea rival Man United for CB transfer as two other clubs out of the running.

5. However, the three-week break actually gives the Gunners' injured stars time to rest and recover ahead of club football's return on October 10 when the Premier League champions host Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium.