❌

Normal view

Today — 16 July 2026Channel-Football

Watch: Jude Bellingham appears to blame England teammate for Argentina goal

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
16 July 2026 at 02:37

Jude Bellingham seemed to blame England teammate Jordan Pickford for the Enzo Fernandez goal for Argentina in the World Cup semi-final.

Chelsea midfielder Fernandez fired in a superb long-range strike for Argentina to make it 1-1, but it seems Bellingham feels the shot was actually quite central.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Watch below as some fans seem to have been able to lip-read Bellingham’s reaction to the goal, with the Real Madrid ace complaining that it was in the middle of the goal…

Bellingham moaning about Pickford’s little arms. ‘It’s the middle of the goal’ ?? pic.twitter.com/eMqWz2FKg7

— Paul (@pclfc8) July 15, 2026

Make your own minds up, but that perhaps seems a bit harsh on England goalkeeper Pickford, who mostly had a really good game and another strong tournament overall.

Bellingham has been superb for England at this World Cup, but it’s moments like this that perhaps rub some fans up the wrong way, as he can be a little petulant when things aren’t going for him.

Who’s to blame for England’s World Cup exit?

England will likely need to do some soul-searching after this World Cup semi-final loss, as they were a goal up with just a few minutes left, but perhaps handed momentum back to Argentina by being overly defensive and cautious.

Perhaps Pickford could have done better too, but overall it seemed more like the wrong tactical approach from Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Still, this was a good tournament for England and there’ll perhaps be some optimism about what they can build for the future, even if it feels painful now to have missed out on a place in the final.

England still haven’t won the World Cup since all the way back in 1966, and to many this felt like the best opportunity to finally do it again.

Argentina are a fantastic team, however, and are now looking to retain the trophy in what should be a mouth-watering encounter against Spain this Sunday.

The post Watch: Jude Bellingham appears to blame England teammate for Argentina goal appeared first on CaughtOffside.

“No regrets” – Thomas Tuchel explains why he went so defensive in England defeat vs Argentina

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
16 July 2026 at 02:19

England manager Thomas Tuchel has defended his decision to adopt such a negative approach in the World Cup semi-final defeat against Argentina.

Anthony Gordon scored to give England the lead, but they quickly went quite defensive as Tuchel made a few subs and altered his team’s shape even with quite a lot of time remaining.

As a result, Argentina eventually took control and came back to win 2-1 to book their place in this Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain.

Tuchel has been widely criticised for his tactics, but when he spoke after the game he attempted to explain why he felt he had to try to close the game out this way.

Thomas Tuchel on England’s negative tactics

When asked about his decision, Tuchel insisted he had no regrets and that he did what he felt he had to do against Argentina as they kept finding too much space.

“I analysed the match and I did it a certain way so that’s my responsibility,” Tuchel said, as quoted by BBC Sport.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

“In the moment, no regrets. The team gave everything and we were very, very close. We deserved to be up 1-0.

“We played one of our better matches, maybe our best match in the circumstances. The team was top, we couldn’t get over the line but no regrets.

“I think we saw the mentality throughout the match and the strong group. We played the matches how they were, we played against strong teams in the group, travelled a lot of miles, played at altitude, we played with 10 men, we played in the heat and we overcame every obstacle.

“We were very close today. It’s not the moment to analyse the full tournament, we just went our because we lost a crucial match.”

Dan Burn responds to questions about England’s approach

England defender Dan Burn also spoke after the game about how Tuchel set the team up.

It seems the Newcastle man was sympathetic with the Three Lions boss, and admitted that it was also a response from the players to a certain extent, while for some time it also seemed like it was working.

“I thought we had the gameplan pretty well for the majority of it. But obviously, when we scored, we went a bit passive and dropped off and were ultimately punished for it,” Burn said.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

“We probably conceded too many chances and if you do that, they are going to get goals. Disappointing from us. We have defended games better and seen them out. When you get that close to the World Cup final, that hurts.”

He added: “It’s only human nature a little bit as well. You know how well we have defended leads in previous games. That tends to happen to majority of teams.”

Where do you stand on this? Should England have done better to control the game without just taking off attacking players and sitting back? Or was it the right idea and just a bit of bad luck against a quality side? Share your thoughts in the comments!

The post “No regrets” – Thomas Tuchel explains why he went so defensive in England defeat vs Argentina appeared first on CaughtOffside.

“Pathetic” Thomas Tuchel tactics blamed as England approach “backfired terribly” in defeat to Argentina

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
16 July 2026 at 01:57

The knives are really out for England manager Thomas Tuchel this evening as a host of journalists have taken to social media to slam his tactics against Argentina.

Tuchel has long been regarded as one of the top coaches in the game, but he went defensive far too early in England’s World Cup semi-final defeat on Wednesday night.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Anthony Gordon had given the Three Lions a 1-0 lead, but Tuchel made a number of subs that saw them concede massive amounts of ground to Argentina, who eventually found their way to a 2-1 comeback.

While teams sometimes have to be a bit more cautious towards the end of close games, Tuchel just overdid it a bit tonight and also started that negative approach quite early.

Take a look at the screen grab below

Thomas Tuchel criticism on social media
Thomas Tuchel criticism on social media

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Thomas Tuchel’s defensive substitutes for England against Argentina

See below for the subs Tuchel made for England, and what minute they came in, and it certainly paints a picture…

Player subs Minute
Gordon off, Konsa on 72′
Rice off, O’Reilly on 82′
James off, Burn on 82′
Stones off, Toney on 96′
Spence off, Rashford on 96′

This will be an important lesson for England and for Tuchel, who surely had enough quality in the team to continue to take the game to Argentina.

No one is arguing that England should have continued to go all-out-attack, but it’s rare that a team can just defend their way to a win.

All this did was hand the momentum to Argentina, and when you allow the likes of Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernandez more and more opportunities to get into dangerous positions, you’re always going to get punished eventually.

The post “Pathetic” Thomas Tuchel tactics blamed as England approach “backfired terribly” in defeat to Argentina appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Argentina 2-1 England player ratings: Messi gets 9/10 with 2 assists while Chelsea & Spurs stars shine

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
16 July 2026 at 01:35

Argentina have beaten England and made it to the World Cup final, with Lionel Messi and co. now preparing to take on Spain.

Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in Wednesday night’s semi-final, but Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez scored twice late on to send the Three Lions out of the World Cup.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

For England, the 60 years of hurt goes on, and they’ll have to look back at what ended up being a pretty negative performance against Argentina.

Thomas Tuchel went far too defensive after England went ahead, so it’s not exactly the players’ fault, but here’s our look at how the players from both sides rated…

Argentina 2-1 England World Cup semi-final player ratings

Jordan Pickford – 6

Reece James – 7

Djed Spence – 7

Marc Guehi – 6

John Stones – 6

Declan Rice – 7.5

Elliot Anderson – 6

Jude Bellingham – 6.5

Morgan Rogers – 7

Anthony Gordon – 7.5

Harry Kane – 6

Not too many stand-out performers there from England, but Rogers and Gordon combined well for the goal, while Rice also played his part and generally worked hard in a difficult midfield battle. James and Spence were also in good form at both ends of the pitch, with the latter particularly impressive with one last-ditch challenge in the second half.

Emiliano Martinez – 6

Nahuel Molina – 6

Nicolas Tagliafico – 6

Cristian Romero – 8

Lisandro Martinez – 7

Leandro Paredes – 7

Alexis Mac Allister – 6.5

Enzo Fernandez – 8

Giulio Simeone – 6

Julian Alvarez – 7

Lionel Messi – 9

Argentina were not exactly spectacular, but Messi and Fernandez produced when it mattered and that will give them confidence against Spain in the final. A word too to Romero, who hasn’t always been at his best in a Tottenham shirt, but who looked like a real leader at the back tonight in an important game, keeping Kane quiet throughout.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Who do you think will win this weekend’s final now? Give us your predictions in the comments!

The post Argentina 2-1 England player ratings: Messi gets 9/10 with 2 assists while Chelsea & Spurs stars shine appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Video: Enzo Fernandez & Lautaro Martinez score quickfire double to break England hearts

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
16 July 2026 at 00:58

Enzo Fernandez scored a stunning goal to level things up for Argentina against England in tonight’s World Cup semi-final clash.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The Chelsea midfielder scored an absolutely sublime long-range effort after a short corner by Argentina, with Lionel Messi setting him up to hit it from outside the box.

Watch below as Fernandez finally beat Jordan Pickford, who had been superb for England to keep out Alexis Mac Allister on numerous occasions…

"Enzo Fernandez has simply been setting his sights!" ?

A rocket of a strike from the midfielder draws Argentina level. pic.twitter.com/f5kUPkaP0a

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

We all know Fernandez has that in his locker, with the 25-year-old often scoring some real beauties for Chelsea.

Now he’s delivered on the big stage for his country as they look to be heading for a second consecutive World Cup final appearance.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Argentina produce stunning comeback against England

Lautaro Martinez has just scored a second for the South American giants, who now lead 2-1 with just a few minutes of stoppage time remaining.

Watch below as Messi was again the creator with a lovely cross to set up Martinez for the header…

Argentina are ahead! ?

A relentless spell of pressure sees Alexis Mac Allister hit the post before ANOTHER Lionel Messi assist sets up Lautaro Martinez to make it 2-1. pic.twitter.com/kVoNouFgKZ

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

Having won the World Cup in 2022, it looks like Argentina are heading back to the final as they look to retain their trophy, with Spain waiting for them this time.

For England, unless something dramatic happens in the next few moments, it’s more heartache at a World Cup, with 60 years of hurt set to continue for even longer.

The post Video: Enzo Fernandez & Lautaro Martinez score quickfire double to break England hearts appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Video: Anthony Gordon puts England 1-0 up against Argentina in World Cup semi-final

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
16 July 2026 at 00:30

England have taken the lead against Argentina in the World Cup semi-final thanks to a goal from Anthony Gordon!

The former Newcastle United winger, who recently sealed a transfer to Barcelona, has his first goal of this summer’s World Cup, and he’s picked a hell of a moment to get it.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Watch below as Gordon tapped in from close range after great play down England’s right-hand side from Declan Rice and Morgan Rogers…

ENGLAND HAVE THE OPENER! ?

Anthony Gordon puts the Three Lions ahead in the World Cup semi-final! pic.twitter.com/5fBlRcf1oI

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

Gordon has often been quite prolific from out wide, so it’s no surprise to see him making that run from the left into the penalty area and finding the back of the net.

Still, he can’t have scored many bigger goals than this one, with England now closing in on a place in their first World Cup final in 60 years!

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Thomas Tuchel’s gamble on Morgan Rogers pays off

It was superb play by Morgan Rogers on the right flank, not normally his best position, to set Gordon up for the simple finish.

Rogers has often played out on the left or in a central attacking midfield role for Aston Villa and England, but he has had to adjust to a new position tonight.

Still, Thomas Tuchel’s gamble looks to have paid off, with Rogers performing well so far and doing brilliantly with his cross to pick out Gordon.

The right-hand side has been an issue for England so far at this tournament, with Bukayo Saka’s fitness issues meaning that Noni Madueke has played a lot of games.

While Madueke has his qualities, he hasn’t had enough of an impact so far, which led to Tuchel trying Rogers on the right this evening, and it looks like a tactical masterstroke.

Can England hold on or even add a second? Give us your thoughts in the comments!

The post Video: Anthony Gordon puts England 1-0 up against Argentina in World Cup semi-final appeared first on CaughtOffside.

“Dirty team” – Outrage as ref accused of missing 5-6 Argentina yellow cards vs England

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
16 July 2026 at 00:06

The referee in tonight’s World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina has come in for strong criticism for a lack of yellow cards.

More specifically, a number of high-profile media figures cheering on England are not happy at what they perceive as favourable treatment towards Argentina in this game.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

They may have a point, but these discussions often feel a little tedious in what has generally just been quite a close game without much else to talk about so far.

See below as former footballer Stan Collymore claims Argentina could easily have had two players sent off as both Enzo Fernandez and Giuliano Simeone have made the equivalent of three yellow card offences…

Simeone. 3 yellow challenges.
Fernandez. 3 yellow challenges.

— Stan Collymore (@StanCollymore) July 15, 2026

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Meanwhile, Piers Morgan has also slammed the referee for missing about five yellow cards for Argentina so far…

What the f*ck is this referee doing? Argentina should have 5 bookings by now. Dirty team going woefully unpunished.

— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) July 15, 2026

Argentina have certainly been quite aggressive, and that’s always frustrating when you’re on the receiving end of it.

Still, it seems a tad over-the-top to be suggesting there’s any serious favouritism going on.

England looking to make first World Cup final since 1966

England have done well at this World Cup, and they’re taking the fight to current holders Argentina so far.

They can do better, though, and will likely have to in the second half if they are to have a serious chance of making it to the World Cup final for the first time since they won the competition all the way back in 1966.

Argentina, meanwhile, are looking to retain the trophy they won back in Qatar in 2022, and they’ll hope for more Lionel Messi magic tonight to continue the remarkable form he’s showed at this year’s tournament so far.

The post “Dirty team” – Outrage as ref accused of missing 5-6 Argentina yellow cards vs England appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Video: Declan Rice praises “incredible” Arsenal transfer target ahead of link-up

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 23:12

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has praised the “incredible” Morgan Rogers as they play together for England in tonight’s World Cup semi-final vs Argentina.

Rogers starts on the right-hand side for England, with Thomas Tuchel trying something a bit different in this big game after mostly using Noni Madueke in that position throughout this World Cup.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

With Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka not fully fit, another Gunners star Madueke has come in for the Three Lions, but he’s not been that convincing.

Rogers, meanwhile, has been linked with Arsenal very strongly this summer, and it seems Rice is clearly a big fan of the Aston Villa man as they prepare to link up this evening…

Declan Rice looking forward to playing with Morgan Rogers

Declan Rice is back to full fitness ?

And he's excited to see Morgan Rogers start ? pic.twitter.com/J5XzvBX2NT

— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) July 15, 2026

On Rogers starting, Rice said: “Yeah I think the manager’s obviously made a decision there. Morgan’s an incredible player, obviously he’s going to be playing off the right.

“He’s direct, he’s fast, he’s strong, can come inside, so whoever starts, whoever comes off the bench as seen throughout this tournament has made a massive impact, so I don’t think it’s going to affect much, but it’s a player we’re all looking forward to playing with today.”

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Morgan Rogers on Arsenal’s agenda

Rogers has shown outstanding quality with Villa and England, and it seems inevitable that he’ll soon get himself a big move.

As has been widely reported, our understanding is that Arsenal are making Rogers a priority this summer, and the 23-year-old is also keen on the move to the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners would do well to bring Rogers in, though he doesn’t normally play on the right, so would likely be signed with the view of replacing the departing Leandro Trossard on the left-hand side, or to provide an alternative to the likes of Martin Odegaard and Eberechi Eze in the centre.

Either way, Arsenal fans will no doubt be excited that Rice is such a big fan of Rogers, and perhaps take it as a hint that there’s strong interest from everyone at the club in signing him this summer.

The post Video: Declan Rice praises “incredible” Arsenal transfer target ahead of link-up appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Yesterday — 15 July 2026Channel-Football

Manchester United transfer target could be allowed to leave current club

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 22:18

Eduardo Camavinga could reportedly be allowed to leave Real Madrid this summer amid transfer interest from Manchester United.

The Red Devils have been among the France international’s admirers in recent times, as we exclusively reported here recently.

There’s now confirmation in a report from the Daily Mail that Camavinga’s Madrid future is in some doubt under new manager Jose Mourinho.

It remains to be seen if Camavinga will definitely leave, as the Mail note that his personal preference would be to remain at the Bernabeu.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Still, it’s suggested that there are some doubts about his long-term future with Real, and that could mean there’s an opportunity there for United to pounce.

Manchester United linked with Eduardo Camavinga as they chase third midfield signing

United have already had a busy summer, with deals for midfield duo Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos both officially announced in the last few days.

It could be, however, that MUFC will now pursue a third signing in that area of the pitch, with Camavinga one of the options on their radar.

Another one to watch could be Roma’s Manu Kone, with Fabrizio Romano posting on his YouTube channel that United have been in touch with the France international’s representatives.

Camavinga and Kone are similar profiles, so could be good signings for United, though it’s debatable if they really need yet another arrival in that part of their squad.

Where else could United strengthen?

Michael Carrick could do with more depth in attack and defence as well as in midfield, though in fairness he’s coping with the loss of both Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte.

The latter of those is admittedly only out with an injury, though it looks like a serious and long-term one, but Casemiro left on a free transfer after his contract expired, and will be hard to replace.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Over the course of a long season, United will need the option to rotate, and Camavinga would perhaps also be a good option for them due to his ability to fill in at left-back.

The post Manchester United transfer target could be allowed to leave current club appeared first on CaughtOffside.

“Great market opportunity” – Ornstein’s Man United transfer update on “excellent” World Cup star

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 21:31

David Ornstein says there could be a “great market opportunity” for Manchester United and other clubs to sign Roma midfielder Manu Kone this summer.

The France international has been in superb form in Serie A and also put in some “excellent” displays for Les Bleus at the 2026 World Cup.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Kone has been linked with a number of top clubs in recent times, and it seems Ornstein is aware of Man Utd’s interest in him, with the Athletic journalist describing him as a good cheap option on the market this summer…

A lot of reports suggest that Manchester United are looking at him, and I think that would be excellent.

“It's, from what we hear, a great market opportunity, the value that you could get him from Roma.”

France’s Manu Kone was one of the World Cup’s breakout stars – and… pic.twitter.com/xi1fA5gZJE

— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) July 15, 2026

“It’s, from what we hear, a great market opportunity, the value that you could get him from Roma,” Ornstein said of Kone.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Manu Kone transfer: What we know so far

Kone previously made a name for himself at Borussia Monchengladbach before moving to Roma in 2024, in an initial loan move that later became permanent.

The 25-year-old now clearly seems to be on United’s radar, following updates from both Ornstein in the video above, as well as a recent YouTube post from Fabrizio Romano.

MUFC have already confirmed the signings of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos in midfield, but it seems they’re keen on a third new addition in that position.

Do Man United need Manu Kone?

Some fans might feel a third new midfielder is a bit excessive, but there could be a case for completely revamping that position.

Casemiro has just left Old Trafford after coming to the end of his contract, while Manuel Ugarte is out with a long-term injury and hadn’t particularly impressed enough to be a regular starter for the club anyway.

There’s also Kobbie Mainoo, but if Michael Carrick can rotate between him, Kone, Tielemans, and Santos, that should cover the team well for the season ahead, with the team now set to have more games due to being back in the Champions League.

The post “Great market opportunity” – Ornstein’s Man United transfer update on “excellent” World Cup star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Talks to begin for surprise club to sign Manchester United star

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 21:09

It seems that surprise talks could be about to begin for Fenerbahce to sign Manchester United misfit Marcus Rashford this summer.

The England international, currently at the World Cup 2026 and preparing for tonight’s semi-final clash against Argentina, has been left in limbo after his loan spell at Barcelona.

Rashford shone during his spell at the Nou Camp last season, but it seems that Barca will not be taking up the option to sign him permanently.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

According to Turkish outlet Fanatik, Fenerbahce are now targeting Rashford after already completing their deal to sign Mason Greenwood.

Marcus Rashford set to move to Turkey?

Rashford was once a star player for Man Utd and showed he’s still got what it takes to perform at the highest level with some fine performances for Barcelona in La Liga and the Champions League.

So, in many ways, it seems slightly surprising that Rashford might now be about to move to the Turkish league, which would represent a significant step down in terms of the competitiveness of the division.

Still, there are also a lot of good players at clubs like Fenerbahce, Galatasaray, and Besiktas, so perhaps Rashford can flourish there and make an impact in major competitions like the Champions League.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

It would also be interesting to see Rashford linking up with his former United teammate Greenwood again, with the pair often combining well together at Old Trafford.

MUFC will now have a decision to make, as some fans might even feel that Rashford’s fine form at Barcelona last season should mean he’s in contention for a first-team role again.

Perhaps that ship has now sailed and a fresh start would be the best for everyone, but much of that will now hinge on whether or not Rashford himself is open to joining Fenerbahce, or if he waits for other opportunities.

The post Talks to begin for surprise club to sign Manchester United star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Ornstein reveals England star “rewarded” with start in unfamiliar role vs Argentina tonight

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 20:45

England manager Thomas Tuchel is reportedly set to start Morgan Rogers on the right against Argentina in tonight’s World Cup semi-final.

The Aston Villa attacking midfielder usually plays on the left or centrally, so this is a slightly unfamiliar role for him, but he’s also someone who’s surely good enough to contribute in almost any attacking role.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

See below for David Ornstein’s update on England’s team selection for this evening’s big game, with the journalist posting on X that Tuchel is set to reward Rogers for his impact off the bench in the win over Norway in the last round…

? Morgan Rogers set to start on right for England in #FIFAWorldCup semi-final v #Argentina. Opportunity would see 23yo Aston Villa forward rewarded after impact off bench against Norway & form for #AVFC + #England across Thomas Tuchel reign @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/f3tAfwuZXu

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) July 15, 2026

“Morgan Rogers set to start on right for England in #FIFAWorldCup semi-final … Opportunity would see 23yo Aston Villa forward rewarded after impact off bench against Norway & form for #AVFC + across Thomas Tuchel reign,” Ornstein said.

In truth, something needed to change on that right-hand side as Noni Madueke hasn’t been particularly convincing at this tournament, though he’s started a lot of games because Bukayo Saka isn’t 100% fit.

Can England get past Argentina?

Tuchel will need to get his team selection right tonight for this huge game, which some people are calling their biggest since the World Cup final victory in 1966.

England haven’t been in a World Cup final since their only victory 60 years ago, so it would be a huge achievement to do it.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Argentina are the current holders, so will probably be the favourites tonight, especially with Lionel Messi in such exceptional form at this year’s tournament so far.

For England, the key men will surely be Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, who have both been superb for the Three Lions, though a top young talent like Rogers could also cause Argentina some problems.

The post Ornstein reveals England star “rewarded” with start in unfamiliar role vs Argentina tonight appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Update: Contacts held as clubs queue up to sign Arsenal star, including Man Utd & Newcastle

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 20:22

Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli is reportedly attracting transfer interest from as many as five clubs as he could be on the move this summer.

The Brazil international has perhaps not developed quite as well as many at Arsenal will have expected, scoring only one league goal for the entire 2025/26 campaign.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Martinelli fared better in Europe, scoring six goals in 14 Champions League games as the Gunners reached the final of the competition.

According to Ekrem Konur, it now seems Martinelli could leave Arsenal, and he has interest from big clubs such as Manchester United, Newcastle, Bayern Munich, Juventus, and Roma…

?#Arsenal Gabriel Martinelli could leave Arsenal this summer.

? Man United, Newcastle and Bayern Munich are interested.

? Roma and Juventus have also contacted Arsenal for the Brazilian winger. https://t.co/IQREY7Thwc pic.twitter.com/IMcERmFXhq

— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) July 15, 2026

Konur posted: “Gabriel Martinelli could leave Arsenal this summer. Man United, Newcastle and Bayern Munich are interested. Roma and Juventus have also contacted Arsenal for the Brazilian winger.”

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Arsenal need an upgrade on Gabriel Martinelli

It’s surely time for Arsenal to move on from Martinelli, who is just not consistent enough to start regularly for a club with the ambition to win major titles like the Premier League and the Champions League.

The 25-year-old has been at the Emirates Stadium since 2019 and perhaps he’d now benefit from a change of scene.

Arsenal could also do well to try something different on that side of their front three, and they’ve been strongly linked with Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis by Ben Jacobs and others.

Could Gabriel Martinelli still have a good Premier League career?

Martinelli has still shown enough during his time at AFC that could make him tempting to other English clubs, so the links with Man Utd and Newcastle aren’t too surprising.

We’ve previously been informed of Newcastle asking about Martinelli, though this has not yet progressed as far as we’re aware.

The Magpies could do well to land Martinelli as a replacement for Anthony Gordon, who left for Barcelona earlier this summer.

United, meanwhile, might do well to bring in Martinelli to give them more depth behind their first choice front three of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko, as he can fill in on the left, right, or as a central striker.

The post Update: Contacts held as clubs queue up to sign Arsenal star, including Man Utd & Newcastle appeared first on CaughtOffside.

World Cup star wants Real Madrid transfer this summer, could be “record” deal

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 19:47

Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise is reportedly keen on a transfer to Real Madrid this summer, while the Spanish giants are eyeing a record move.

This is not the first time we’ve heard speculation about Olise’s future in recent months, with the France international in absolutely stunning form in 2025/26 with 29 goals and 32 assists.

Those numbers, via WhoScored, are for club and country, including last summer’s Club World Cup with Bayern, and this summer’s 2026 World Cup with the French national team.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

According to Santi Aouna, Olise is now eyeing Real Madrid as his preferred next move, and ideally wants it to happen this year, with Bayern already keeping an eye out on potential replacements…

?EXCL: ???? #Liga |

?? Michael Olise veut rejoindre le Real Madrid CET ÉTÉ.

? L'international français estime que c'est le club parfait pour continuer sa progression.

? Le Real Madrid souhaite réaliser un transfert record.

??Posture officielle du Bayern : Olise est… pic.twitter.com/kvy4PvBZu9

— Santi Aouna (@Santi_J_FM) July 15, 2026

“Michael Olise wants to join Real Madrid THIS SUMMER,” the journalist posted on X. “The French international believes it’s the perfect club to continue his progression.

“Real Madrid wants to pull off a record transfer. Bayern’s official stance: Olise is not for sale but the truth is more nuanced. The Bavarian club would like to extend his contract, but has also been in contact in parallel with players who could come in to replace him.

“Olise will discuss with his leaders after the World Cup.”

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Will Michael Olise be Real Madrid’s next Galactico signing?

Olise looks like he has it in him to get even better, and it would be exciting to see the 24-year-old at the Bernabeu alongside other world class talents like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.

Michael Olise TOTAL SCORE: 22/25
Transfer fee **
Performance *****
Achievements *****
Career phase *****
Squad need *****

Olise gets a near-perfect score with our Transfer Fit rating system – find out more about how it works here!

The former Crystal Palace man was not at his best in France’s defeat to Spain yesterday, but in general he has been really consistent on the biggest stage, winning the Bundesliga title with Bayern and helping them to the Champions League semi-finals.

Olise’s best position is coming off that right flank so he can cut onto his left foot, and that’s undoubtedly somewhere Real Madrid could do with strengthening.

Bayern don’t tend to sell their star names, but it seems this can’t be ruled out, with Olise keen on the move to Spain, as has been previously reported by TEAMtalk.

The post World Cup star wants Real Madrid transfer this summer, could be “record” deal appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Wayne Rooney singles out England star who can “destroy” key Argentina players tonight

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 18:30

England legend Wayne Rooney has backed Harry Kane to “destroy” Argentina’s centre-backs if he’s really on his game in tonight’s World Cup semi-final.

Spain beat France last night to book their place in the final, and now fans will be preparing to follow England vs Argentina in the second semi-final, with the Three Lions chasing a first appearance in a World Cup final since their famous victory of 1966.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Speaking ahead of the big game, former England forward Rooney is backing Kane as the big difference-maker, as he could be too much for Lisandro Martinez and Cristian Romero if he plays at his best.

Wayne Rooney makes big Harry Kane claim

Watch below as Rooney explains how Kane could cause that duo a lot of trouble with his intelligent movement…

"If Harry Kane is on it, he'll destroy these two centre-backs" ??????? ?? pic.twitter.com/9vqdSouHMJ

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

“If Harry Kane is on it, they won’t be able to deal with Harry Kane,” Rooney said. “Because Harry’s a nightmare for that type of defender.”

He added: “If Harry’s just dragging them into positions where they feel a bit exposed, which they will do … it’s just about the timing of the pass and the timing of the run in behind them.

“I think if Harry is on it he will absolutely destroy those two centre-backs.”

Is this going to turn into Lionel Messi vs Harry Kane?

Football is complex and unpredictable, so to say any game is a battle between any two individuals is far too simplistic.

However, we also know that there are certain talents who are a level above the rest, and that entire game plans can revolve around.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Kane and Lionel Messi fall into that category, as, arguably, does Jude Bellingham after the form he’s shown at this World Cup so far.

If Rooney is right and Kane can unsettle that Argentina defence, then that could be the game plan that brings England victory.

However, as Thomas Tuchel has alluded to, there also needs to be a plan for Messi, who has been in superb form at this tournament even at the age of 39.

Who do you see having the bigger influence tonight? Give us your thoughts and pre-match predictions in the comments!

The post Wayne Rooney singles out England star who can “destroy” key Argentina players tonight appeared first on CaughtOffside.

“I’m not a fan of…” – Thomas Tuchel gives interesting response to Lionel Messi question

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 17:58

England manager Thomas Tuchel has dodged a question about whether he thinks Lionel Messi is the greatest player of all time.

The German tactician is preparing to lead the Three Lions against Argentina in tonight’s World Cup semi-final clash, and stopping Messi will probably be the tactic he most needs to get right.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Messi has never played against England before, so it will be interesting to see what he can do, but he goes into this game in superb form as he’s joint-top of the Golden Boot charts at the World Cup so far.

See below as Tuchel discusses Messi’s quality, but falls short of declaring him the best player ever, as he admits he’s not a fan of lists like that…

‘We’re NOT here to build him a throne’ ?

Thomas Tuchel on the challenge Lionel Messi and Argentina pose for England ?????????#ITVFootball | @England | @gabrielclarke05 pic.twitter.com/L5c9xfnERb

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) July 15, 2026

Tuchel also sent a clear message about not worshipping Messi too much, which seems like the right kind of mentality for England if they are to avoid being overawed by the 39-year-old.

How can England stop Lionel Messi?

Tuchel also spoke in another video clip about how he’s tempted to try an old-school man-marking system to keep Messi quiet.

See below as the England manager admitted to that kind of plan crossing his mind, though he obviously wouldn’t reveal one way or another if he’d definitely choose that particular option, as it might not be something that works on Messi anyway…

How Thomas Tuchel and England are planning on stopping Lionel Messi… ?? pic.twitter.com/iaF3mSpYUe

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) July 15, 2026

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Ultimately, it might just be best not to focus too much on Messi, as throughout his career he’s got the better of pretty much every top defence you can think of.

Player Goals Assists
Kylian Mbappe 8 3
Lionel Messi 8 1
Erling Haaland 7 0
Harry Kane 6 1
Jude Bellingham 6 1

It might work best for England if they just focus on their own game tonight, and do their best to keep the ball, create chances, and limit what Messi can do by simply being the better team.

That’s easier said than done, of course, but if they retreat and make everything about stopping Messi, chances are he’ll find at least one moment of immense quality to undo all that work anyway.

The post “I’m not a fan of…” – Thomas Tuchel gives interesting response to Lionel Messi question appeared first on CaughtOffside.

New talks held: Man City communicate plans to £85m star, Arsenal also still firmly in race for transfer

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 17:32

Manchester City have reportedly intensified talks over signing Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, while Arsenal are also still in the running.

The talented young Morocco international has shone in Ligue 1 and also impressed with his national team at the 2026 World Cup, though his tournament ended with the recent defeat to France.

A recent report from the Guardian claimed Man City were keen on a potential £85m deal for Bouaddi, and there’s now been a new update.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

According to TEAMtalk, City have communicated to Bouaddi’s representatives that they want the player to come in straight away and become part of Enzo Maresca’s first-team.

They add that Arsenal remain ‘firmly’ in contention for Bouaddi, even if City have clearly been advancing on this one.

Should Ayyoub Bouaddi choose Arsenal or Manchester City?

A few years ago this would probably have been a no-brainer, with City the go-to destination for the world’s best players due to the chance to play under Pep Guardiola and get as good a guarantee as you can get of winning major trophies.

With Guardiola leaving this summer, though, there is no longer that guarantee, even if Maresca is also a good manager, and this remains a City squad full of world class players.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Arsenal are reigning Premier League champions and possibly the favourites to retain their title in 2026/27, so Bouaddi could do well to choose the Emirates Stadium for the next step in his career.

It’s not an easy decision, though, with City probably likely to be able to offer more money, while there’s actually also a lot of competition in Arsenal’s midfield at the moment.

The Gunners already have Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, and Myles Lewis-Skelly in that area of their squad, so there’s no guarantee Bouaddi would get regular minutes.

City, by contrast, probably need to start thinking about rebuilding their midfield a little bit as Rodri is not getting any younger and has had some injury problems in the last couple of years, with Bouaddi looking like an ideal long-term successor in that role.

The post New talks held: Man City communicate plans to £85m star, Arsenal also still firmly in race for transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

After Trossard: Another attacker is on his way out of Arsenal as Arteta eyes major rebuild

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
15 July 2026 at 12:49

Arsenal’s attacking rebuild is gathering pace, with Mikel Arteta prepared to make several difficult decisions after guiding the club to the Premier League title.

Rather than allowing successful players to remain because of past contributions, the Gunners appear determined to refresh the squad and create room for younger or more reliable attacking options.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The departure of Leandro Trossard has already changed the picture on the left wing, while another experienced forward could now follow him out of the Emirates.

Injuries and increased competition have reduced his importance, leaving Arsenal ready to listen to offers before his contract expires.

AC Milan emerge as leading contenders for Jesus

According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal are actively trying to sell Gabriel Jesus, with AC Milan currently among the strongest contenders for his signature.

The 29-year-old has entered the final year of his contract, and the Gunners are reportedly prepared to consider proposals worth around £20 million.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Jesus made only 14 Premier League appearances last season, scoring six goals, and now finds himself behind Viktor Gyökeres and Kai Havertz in Arteta’s attacking hierarchy.

Milan have made contact, while Juventus, Atlético Madrid and clubs in Turkey are also understood to have explored the situation.

A move to Italy could appeal to the Brazilian. Football Italia recently reported that Jesus had spoken positively about Serie A, admitting that playing in Italian football had been a childhood dream.

His experience, movement and ability to cover several forward positions could make him a useful option for Milan.

Arsenal expected to rebuild attack this summer

Jesus could become the second experienced attacker to leave Arsenal this summer.

Leandro Trossard has left the club to join Besiktas after Arsenal agreed a transfer worth approximately £17m.

Sky Sports reported that the Belgian was given permission to travel to Istanbul and complete the move after recording 36 goals in 174 Arsenal appearances.

Selling Jesus makes sense if Arsenal already have replacements lined up. His quality has never been in doubt, but repeated injury problems have made it difficult for Arteta to depend on him consistently.

However, Arsenal should avoid accepting a heavily discounted offer simply because his contract is running down.

A fee near £20m would be reasonable, particularly given his wages and fitness record.

With Trossard already gone, losing Jesus would leave the attack noticeably younger and less experienced.

Two-time Champions League winner considered Morgan Rogers alternative by Arsenal 

The post After Trossard: Another attacker is on his way out of Arsenal as Arteta eyes major rebuild appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Approach dismissed: Liverpool reject latest bid for midfielder who is looking for a move

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
15 July 2026 at 12:22

Liverpool face a delicate decision over one of their homegrown midfielders as Inter Milan continue testing their resolve.

The Italian champions have returned with an improved proposal, but the Reds are refusing to lower their valuation despite the player entering the final year of his contract.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The situation is about more than a £3m difference. Liverpool must balance the risk of losing a useful squad member for nothing next summer against the value of keeping an experienced,  locally developed player during Andoni Iraola’s first season in charge.

Inter, meanwhile, appear confident that their persistence could eventually force a compromise.

Liverpool hold firm despite improved offer from Inter

According to talkSPORT, Liverpool have rejected Inter’s latest offer of approximately £27m for Curtis Jones.

The proposal was closer to the Reds’ reported £30m asking price than Inter’s previous bid of around £21.6m, but it was still dismissed.

Jones is believed to be open to leaving Anfield after seeing his starting opportunities decrease last season.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

However, Liverpool’s new head coach reportedly values his versatility and wants to assess him during pre-season before approving any departure.

This Is Anfield has reported that Iraola would like Jones to remain beyond the coming campaign, suggesting a new contract could still become possible if the midfielder earns an important role under the Spaniard.

Contract situation leaves Reds facing a major gamble

Liverpool cannot ignore the financial risk. Jones’ current agreement expires in 2027, and The Guardian previously reported that extension talks had failed to produce an agreement.

Inter may therefore believe Liverpool’s position will weaken as the transfer deadline approaches.

Liverpool are right to reject £27m because the gap to their asking price is small enough for Inter to bridge.

Jones is Premier League-proven, homegrown and capable of covering several midfield roles, so accepting a discounted offer would make little sense.

However, the Reds must quickly decide whether they genuinely intend to extend his contract. Keeping him for one season and then losing him for free would be poor business.

If Inter reach £30m and Jones makes it clear he wants the move, Liverpool should accept the deal and reinvest rather than allow the situation to drag on.

Fresh contact: Liverpool step up winger pursuit by making efforts to sign 23-year-old

The post Approach dismissed: Liverpool reject latest bid for midfielder who is looking for a move appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Two-time Champions League winner considered Morgan Rogers alternative by Arsenal

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
15 July 2026 at 12:14

Arsenal are continuing to reshape their attack after Leandro Trossard’s departure, with another high-level wide forward now under serious consideration.

Mikel Arteta wants more pace, unpredictability and goals from the left side as the Gunners prepare to defend their Premier League title and challenge again in Europe.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Morgan Rogers has been one of Arsenal’s leading targets throughout the window because of his versatility, physical strength and proven Premier League quality.

However, Aston Villa’s enormous valuation has forced sporting director Andrea Berta to examine other possibilities rather than allowing one negotiation to delay the club’s wider plans.

Arsenal consider French star as Rogers’ alternative

According to Daily Mail, Arsenal are turning their attention towards Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola as a possible alternative to Rogers.

The France international can play from either flank and would give Arteta a more natural wide option capable of stretching defences with his speed and direct running.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

The Frenchman has been crucial for PSG in their two Champions League wins in the last two seasons.

The main reason for Arsenal’s change of focus is the financial difficulty surrounding Rogers. Sky Sports reported that Villa would demand a British-record fee of around £130m before considering negotiations.

With the 23-year-old under a long-term contract, Villa have little reason to accept a discounted offer.

PSG stance means alternative is not straightforward

Barcola may not be easy to sign either. talkSPORT reported that PSG do not currently consider him available, although their position could change depending on further attacking arrivals.

Liverpool are also monitoring his situation, while uncertainty over a possible PSG contract extension has encouraged interested clubs.

Barcola could actually suit Arsenal’s immediate requirements better than Rogers. He is a specialist winger with explosive pace and would bring a different threat to an attack that can occasionally become too predictable.

Rogers is more Premier League-proven and can influence matches from several positions, but paying £130m would place enormous pressure on both the player and Arsenal’s remaining transfer budget.

Arsenal should therefore explore Barcola seriously, but only at a sensible price. Moving away from one excessive valuation merely to accept another would defeat the purpose.

Arsenal willing to offer 28-year-old crucial player in a swap deal to sign Julian Alvarez 

The post Two-time Champions League winner considered Morgan Rogers alternative by Arsenal appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Just in: Liverpool closely watching Tottenham player impressing at the World Cup

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
15 July 2026 at 12:06

Liverpool’s defensive recruitment could lead them towards a familiar Premier League name following his impressive role in England’s World Cup campaign.

The Reds need greater depth across the back line, particularly players capable of covering more than one position without forcing Andoni Iraola to completely change his system.

A homegrown defender with pace, international experience and the ability to operate on either flank would address several needs at once.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

His tournament performances have increased his profile, but they may also make a potential agreement with Tottenham more expensive and considerably harder to negotiate.

Liverpool continue to monitor long term target

According to Anfield Watch, Liverpool have monitored Djed Spence since his loan spell with Rennes in 2023.

Their scouts were initially watching Désiré Doué but also assessed Spence, who reportedly performed particularly well when facing the talented French winger.

Liverpool’s interest has never developed into a formal offer, although the club have continued tracking his progress and would consider acting if a realistic market opportunity appeared.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Spence’s performances for England have strengthened his reputation.

The Times reports that he has appeared in all six of England’s matches on their way to the semi-final, starting twice and coming off the bench four times.

His speed and one-on-one defending have made him a useful tactical option for Thomas Tuchel, including during the 2-1 quarter-final victory over Norway.

Tottenham are in a strong position regarding Spence

Spence can play as a right-back, left-back or wing-back, while his homegrown status would also help Liverpool meet squad-registration requirements.

Those qualities make him an attractive option for a team needing reliable defensive cover.

However, Tottenham confirmed in August 2025 that he had signed a new long-term contract, leaving Spurs under no pressure to sell. His strong World Cup could further increase their valuation.

Spence would be a smart signing for Liverpool because he provides pace, flexibility and Premier League experience. He would strengthen the squad without needing a lengthy adaptation period.

Still, Liverpool should not overpay after a handful of impressive tournament appearances.

Fresh contact: Liverpool step up winger pursuit by making efforts to sign 23-year-old

The post Just in: Liverpool closely watching Tottenham player impressing at the World Cup appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Fresh contact: Liverpool step up winger pursuit by making efforts to sign 23-year-old

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
15 July 2026 at 11:40

Liverpool’s search for a new elite winger appears to be gathering momentum as the club continues planning for the next phase of its attack.

Finding someone capable of eventually replacing Mohamed Salah’s goals and influence is an enormous challenge, so the Reds have been assessing several young forwards with pace, creativity and room to develop.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Their latest move suggests one of Europe’s most exciting wide players has become a serious option rather than simply another name on the shortlist.

However, Paris Saint-Germain remain in a powerful negotiating position and would demand a huge package before allowing an important member of their squad to leave.

Liverpool reopen talks with French champions

According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool have made fresh contact with PSG regarding a potential summer transfer for Bradley Barcola.

The 23-year-old’s representatives are reportedly exploring possible moves, and the France international would be interested in discussing the opportunity to join Liverpool.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

The interest has grown since Liverpool encountered difficulties in their pursuit of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande.

talkSPORT reported that Barcola remains high on the Reds’ list, although PSG continue to insist publicly that he is not for sale.

Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh, Köln’s Said El Mala and Lille’s Matias Fernandez-Pardo are being considered as alternatives.

Barcola would offer speed, direct running and flexibility across the front line. He is most comfortable attacking from the left, but his movement and technical quality could allow him to operate in several roles under Liverpool’s new system.

PSG position makes blockbuster deal difficult

PSG have little reason to accept a modest offer. Their official player profile confirms that Barcola remains under contract until June 2028 after joining from Lyon in 2023.

With Arsenal also linked, Liverpool may need to pay well above £100m to take control of the race.

Barcola would be an exciting long-term addition, but Liverpool should not allow their need for a Salah successor to push them into an excessive deal.

He has enormous potential, yet he is not currently producing the extraordinary numbers that would automatically justify a British-record fee.

The Reds should continue discussions and establish PSG’s genuine selling price. If that figure remains unreasonable, moving quickly towards a more affordable alternative would be the smarter decision.

2/10 – Liverpool transfer target slammed for nervy and error-prone performance for France vs Spain

The post Fresh contact: Liverpool step up winger pursuit by making efforts to sign 23-year-old appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal willing to offer 28-year-old crucial player in a swap deal to sign Julian Alvarez

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
15 July 2026 at 11:31

Arsenal’s pursuit of another elite attacker has produced an unexpected development, with the club exploring whether one of their current strikers could be used to unlock a blockbuster agreement.

Mikel Arteta remains determined to improve his forward line despite winning the Premier League last season, suggesting the Gunners are unwilling to stand still while their rivals strengthen.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The proposed structure would reduce the cash required for an extremely expensive target, but it would also mean moving on from a major signing after only one campaign.

Arsenal must therefore decide whether this is a genuine opportunity to upgrade or an unnecessarily ruthless reaction to an inconsistent debut season.

Arsenal consider player exchange offer to sign Álvarez

According to talkSPORT, Arsenal have explored offering Viktor Gyökeres as part of negotiations for Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez.

Preliminary discussions have taken place, although no final strategy has been agreed and the possibility remains at an exploratory stage.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Álvarez is considered one of Arteta’s leading attacking targets because of his Premier League experience, pressing intensity and ability to operate as a central striker or supporting forward.

However, Atlético’s valuation remains a major obstacle.

FourFourTwo reports that Atlético would want more than £100m, while Arsenal have been reluctant to exceed £90m. Including Gyökeres could narrow that financial gap, although Atlético would still need to value the Sweden international highly enough for the structure to work.

Decision could define the attacking future of Arteta’s team

Álvarez has already indicated that he is open to leaving Madrid.

Reuters reported that the Argentina international had spoken with Atlético and expressed a desire  to pursue a new challenge, although he has not publicly identified Arsenal as his preferred destination.

Arsenal should seriously pursue Álvarez, but sacrificing Gyökeres after one season would be a major call.

The Argentine is more versatile and better suited to Arteta’s fluid attacking system, yet Gyökeres could still improve considerably after fully adapting to English football.

A cash-plus-player deal makes sense only if Arsenal are convinced Álvarez is the final piece of their attack.

Otherwise, trading away a proven goalscorer while also paying a substantial fee could create more risk than value.

Sources: Arsenal enter race for Liverpool target who has boosted his profile at the World Cup

The post Arsenal willing to offer 28-year-old crucial player in a swap deal to sign Julian Alvarez appeared first on CaughtOffside.

New contract for midfielder on offer after Man United move for him collapsed unexpectedly

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
15 July 2026 at 11:04

Manchester United’s failed pursuit of a new midfielder has created an unexpected opportunity for Atalanta.

A transfer that once appeared close to completion has now broken down, leaving the Serie A club working quickly to secure the long-term future of one of their most important players.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

For United, the situation highlights the risks involved when medical concerns appear during advanced negotiations.

For Atalanta, it provides an opportunity to turn a disappointing transfer setback into a positive outcome by rewarding the Brazilian and removing uncertainty around a contract approaching its final year.

Atalanta respond after Man United deal breaks down

According to journalist Nicolo Schira, Atalanta have proposed a new four-year contract to Ederson, with the option of an additional season.

The offer arrives after his expected move to Man United fell through and could keep the midfielder in Bergamo for the prime years of his career.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Sky Sports reported that United had agreed a package worth approximately £37.8m but decided not to proceed at that price after concerns emerged during the medical process.

The transfer was not necessarily ruled out under completely different terms, but United had already started redirecting their midfield plans towards other targets.

The setback is significant because Ederson had been identified as a potential replacement for Casemiro. His physical strength, ball-winning ability and willingness to carry possession through midfield appeared well suited to Michael Carrick’s rebuilding project.

New offer could close door to United move

Football Italia reported that Ederson’s current Atalanta agreement expires in 2027 and that the club now want to improve both its length and financial terms.

A successful renewal would strengthen Atalanta’s negotiating position and make any future transfer considerably more expensive.

Man United were right not to ignore concerns raised during the medical. Even a talented player can become an expensive mistake if the club commits a major fee and long contract without complete confidence in his fitness.

However, United should also avoid treating Ederson as damaged goods when Atalanta clearly believe he is healthy enough to receive a substantial new deal.

The collapse may simply reflect two clubs making different assessments of risk.

How much Manchester United have banked from Mason Greenwood’s latest transfer 

The post New contract for midfielder on offer after Man United move for him collapsed unexpectedly appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham enter full-back race despite enquiries already made by Man United

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
15 July 2026 at 09:46

Tottenham Hotspur have joined the growing battle for one of the Premier League’s most dependable and versatile defenders.

Spurs are looking to strengthen their options across the back line, and targeting a player capable of operating on either flank would give them valuable protection during a demanding domestic and European campaign.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The move would also represent a relatively low-risk piece of recruitment.

Rather than signing someone who needs time to adjust to English football, Tottenham would be bringing in an established international who has already demonstrated his durability, energy and tactical flexibility at Premier League level.

Tottenham enter crowded race for Forest defender

According to TEAMtalk, Tottenham have entered the race to sign Nottingham Forest full-back Neco Williams.

Manchester United and Newcastle United have already registered their interest in the 25-year-old, meaning Spurs could face serious competition if they decide to submit an offer.

Williams enjoyed an excellent 2025/26 campaign and was voted Forest’s Player of the Season by the club’s supporters.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Nottingham Forest’s official website praised his consistency after he established himself as one of their most reliable performers.

His ability to play at right-back, left-back or wing-back is a major part of the attraction. Tottenham would be gaining someone who can provide competition on both sides while also allowing the manager to switch formations without making major personnel changes.

Long contract gives Forest control of negotiations

Completing the transfer will not be straightforward because Forest are under no immediate pressure to sell.

The club confirmed in July 2025 that Williams had signed a new contract lasting until the summer of 2029.

That agreement, combined with interest from three major Premier League clubs, means Forest can demand a strong fee or simply refuse to negotiate.

Williams would be a sensible addition for Tottenham. He may not be a glamorous signing, but his availability, intensity and positional flexibility could make him extremely useful over a long season.

However, Spurs should avoid getting dragged into an expensive bidding war. Williams would improve the squad, but he may not arrive as a guaranteed starter.

Tottenham should test Forest’s position with a realistic proposal and move quickly if the price is reasonable.

Tottenham set sights on 30-G/A winger after World Cup wondergoal 

The post Tottenham enter full-back race despite enquiries already made by Man United appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Sources: Arsenal enter race for Liverpool target who has boosted his profile at the World Cup

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
15 July 2026 at 09:31

Arsenal’s plans to refresh their forward line are gathering momentum, with the club now considering a significant move for one of the standout young attackers from the 2026 World Cup.

Mikel Arteta wants greater pace and unpredictability from the left flank as the Gunners prepare to defend their Premier League title and compete for the Champions League.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Leandro Trossard’s departure has created an immediate opening, while uncertainty surrounding Gabriel Martinelli’s future means Arsenal may need more than one wide attacking option.

The latest target would offer explosive dribbling, positional flexibility and considerable resale potential, although RB Leipzig’s valuation could create a difficult negotiation.

Arsenal ready to test Leipzig with an opening offer

Sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside that Arsenal are preparing an offer worth around €40m for Antonio Nusa this month.

The Norway international’s performances at the World Cup strengthened the club’s interest, with the 21-year-old viewed as a possible long-term solution on the left.

That opening figure is unlikely to satisfy Leipzig. Get German Football News reports that the Bundesliga side want at least €60m, with Newcastle, Juventus and several other European clubs also monitoring his situation.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Leipzig would prefer to retain Nusa, but their stance could change if a major offer arrives.

Nusa helped Norway reach the World Cup quarter-finals and produced one of the tournament’s memorable individual moments with a brilliant goal against Ivory Coast.

His ability to beat defenders and carry the ball through pressure would give Arsenal a different threat from their more possession-focused attackers.

Trossard exit adds urgency to Mikel Arteta’s plans

Arsenal have already confirmed an agreement for Trossard to join Besiktas in a deal worth approximately £17m.

Sky Sports reported that the Belgian was permitted to travel to Istanbul for his medical after contributing 36 goals across 174 Arsenal appearances.

Nusa would be an exciting replacement because he offers youth, directness and genuine one-against-one quality. His relationship with Norway captain Martin Ødegaard could also help him settle quickly in north London.

However, Arsenal should not jump from €40m to €60m without careful negotiation.

Nusa remains a developing player rather than a guaranteed starter, and intense competition could inflate the fee beyond his current level.

Arsenal should test Leipzig’s resolve, but remain disciplined. At the right price, this could be an excellent long-term signing, at €60m or more, it becomes a much riskier gamble.

Just in: Winger informs Arsenal he is interested in joining them, could cost around £35m

The post Sources: Arsenal enter race for Liverpool target who has boosted his profile at the World Cup appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Report: Injury-prone Man United player offered to Atletico Madrid

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
15 July 2026 at 09:10

Manchester United’s defensive planning has come under fresh scrutiny after reports in Spain linked one of Michael Carrick’s most trusted centre-backs with Atlético Madrid.

The Argentine remains highly regarded at Old Trafford, but his injury record and contract situation mean the club may eventually face a difficult decision.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

A departure would still be surprising. His aggression, leadership and ability to play progressive passes from defence give United qualities that are not easily replaced.

However, with only one guaranteed year remaining on his deal, the club cannot completely ignore outside interest or allow uncertainty to continue deep into the new season.

Atletico link raises questions over Man United future

According to El Chiringuito TV, Lisandro Martínez has been offered to Atlético Madrid while representing Argentina at the World Cup.

The report does not clarify whether United initiated the approach, whether intermediaries are testing the market or whether Atlético intend to submit a formal proposal.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Martínez’s original transfer announcement on Man United’s official website confirmed that he signed until June 2027, with the club holding an option to extend his contract for another season.

That clause means United are not under immediate pressure to sell, although discussions about his longer-term future should become a priority.

Contract and fitness could define his next step

The biggest concern remains his availability. Martínez has endured several significant injury setbacks since arriving from Ajax, preventing him from building consistent momentum despite his importance when fit.

Carrick has continued to support him publicly. Sky Sports showed the United manager strongly defending Martínez following a controversial red card in April, underlining the trust that appears to exist between the pair.

United should reject any approach unless Atlético submit a major offer and Martínez makes it clear that he wants to leave.

When fully fit, he remains one of the club’s best defenders and provides personality that would be difficult to replace.

The smartest move would be to retain control through the extension clause and begin renewal talks. Selling an influential defender without a clear replacement would create another problem in a squad Carrick is still rebuilding.

Club director “stunned” by Manchester United transfer decision

The post Report: Injury-prone Man United player offered to Atletico Madrid appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Just in: Winger informs Arsenal he is interested in joining them, could cost around £35m

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
15 July 2026 at 09:00

Arsenal are moving closer to strengthening the left side of their attack, with club-to-club discussions expected to gather pace over a deal worth up to £35 million.

The Gunners want greater depth and directness in wide areas as Mikel Arteta prepares his squad for another demanding Premier League and Champions League campaign.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The proposed transfer appears to be progressing independently of Arsenal’s pursuit of a more established attacking star.

That suggests the club view the winger as a squad-strengthening addition rather than the single headline signing expected to transform Arteta’s forward line.

Arsenal receive major boost to sign the winger

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Christos Tzolis has informed Arsenal that he wants to join the club.

Negotiations with Club Brugge are now expected to accelerate, with the final transfer fee likely to fall between £30m and £35m depending on the payment structure.

Club Brugge are reportedly prepared to sell despite the Greece international being tied to a long-term contract.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

The Belgian club confirmed last year that Tzolis had extended his agreement until 2029 after registering 21 goals and 16 assists across his first 56 appearances.

That contract gives Brugge a strong negotiating position, but the player’s desire to move should help Arsenal’s efforts.

The 24-year-old has rebuilt his reputation impressively after struggling during his previous spell in English football with Norwich City. His improved end product, confidence and European experience now make him a far more complete player.

Gunners remain interested in Morgan Rogers

Tzolis’ potential arrival will not affect Arsenal’s interest in Morgan Rogers.

talkSPORT has also reported that the two deals are considered separate, with the Club Brugge winger viewed as an affordable wide option while Rogers remains among Arsenal’s more ambitious attacking targets.

Tzolis would represent a sensible piece of recruitment at around £30m. He may not arrive with the reputation of Rogers or Bradley Barcola, but his productivity and willingness to join Arsenal make the risk easier to justify.

His disappointing Norwich spell will create understandable doubts, but he has developed significantly since then.

Arsenal would be signing the current version of Tzolis, not the inexperienced youngster who previously struggled in England.

“Fresh contacts” – Arsenal have directly approached Atletico Madrid over Julian Alvarez

The post Just in: Winger informs Arsenal he is interested in joining them, could cost around £35m appeared first on CaughtOffside.

2/10 – Liverpool transfer target slammed for nervy and error-prone performance for France vs Spain

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 01:58

Liverpool-linked winger Michael Olise has received criticism for a particularly poor game for France against Spain in Tuesday night’s World Cup semi-final.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The Bayern Munich star was not his usual self at all, and it proved hugely detrimental to France as they lost 2-0 to Spain and exited the competition.

Given the presence of world class attacking players like Olise, Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, Bradley Barcola, and Rayan Cherki, this France side were seen as one of the big favourites for this year’s World Cup.

However, Olise really let them down tonight, with Get French Football News giving him just a 2/10 rating and slamming him for making some sloppy mistakes in possession.

What next for Michael Olise this summer?

It will be interesting to see what happens next with Olise after so much speculation over his future in recent months.

Of course, France still have the third place play-off this weekend to think about, but their tournament is still essentially over, which might mean players switch their focus to potential transfers.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Olise could be one to watch as TEAMtalk have linked him with Liverpool, while our colleague Christian Falk has written in his CF Bayern Insider column about the 24-year-old being unlikely to sign a new Bayern contract.

This could perhaps open the door for Liverpool, but it’s unlikely to be a deal that would come cheap.

Bayern are a huge club, so won’t want to sell a world class talent like Olise, even if he just had a pretty poor game for France.

An in-form Olise is one of the deadliest attacking players on the planet, and his playing style also makes him an ideal long-term Mohamed Salah replacement at Anfield.

The post 2/10 – Liverpool transfer target slammed for nervy and error-prone performance for France vs Spain appeared first on CaughtOffside.

How much Manchester United have banked from Mason Greenwood’s latest transfer

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 01:34

Manchester United have reportedly made a total of €12.48m from Mason Greenwood’s transfer move from Marseille to Fenerbahce.

The former Red Devils forward shone during his time in Ligue 1 and this has seen Fenerbahce pay €39m for him in total.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Due to a sell-on clause in his contract, this gives Man Utd a pretty decent fee, though some of that also goes to another of his former clubs Getafe, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

See below for the full details and breakdown of the money involved here…

Fenerbahce confirm Mason Greenwood has joined from Marseille on a four-year contract.

Fee is €39m paid in three equal installments over three years.

Manchester United receive €15.6m due to a sell-on clause on the full fee. Yet €3.12m goes on to Getafe. It leaves #MUFC with… pic.twitter.com/ZePxaoN0D4

— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) July 14, 2026

Jacobs posted: “Fenerbahce confirm Mason Greenwood has joined from Marseille on a four-year contract. Fee is €39m paid in three equal installments (sic) over three years. Manchester United receive €15.6m due to a sell-on clause on the full fee. Yet €3.12m goes on to Getafe. It leaves #MUFC with €12.48m.”

Manchester United continue to benefit from Mason Greenwood sale

Greenwood looked like an outstanding young talent when he first came up from United’s academy into their first-team, but in the end the club didn’t really have any choice but to let him go.

The 24-year-old was notably arrested after very serious allegations were made against him, though these charges were later dropped. Still, this led to him being suspended by United and he never played for them again.

Since then, Greenwood has rebuilt his career well, though it seems unlikely he’ll ever come back to the Premier League.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Overall, MUFC have profited well from selling an academy player who didn’t cost them money to sign in the first place.

When they first sold Greenwood to Marseille, they banked £26.6m from his sale, according to BBC Sport‘s report at the time.

Another €12.48m is roughly £10.6m, so that’s £37.2m in total.

Many fans would probably rather have had the player, but given his quite specific situation, the club have done quite well financially out of this.

The post How much Manchester United have banked from Mason Greenwood’s latest transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Video: Pedro Porro’s superb finish puts Spain 2-0 up vs France but PL defender completely falls asleep

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 00:33

Tottenham full-back Pedro Porro has scored for Spain to put them 2-0 up against France in tonight’s World Cup 2026 semi-final clash.

It was a lovely move and a superb finish by Porro, who fired past France goalkeeper Mike Maignan with all the quality and confidence of a centre-forward.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

However, watch the video clip below and you’ll see that Aston Villa left-back Lucas Digne completely fell asleep to allow acres of space for Porro on that side…

INCREDIBLE ?

Spain one-two their way through the France defense and Pedro Porro doubles his country's lead… pic.twitter.com/DFGCLMzFUC

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) July 14, 2026

Porro made no mistake after being played in so well, but Digne made it that much easier for him by completely failing to spot or track his run.

Spain heading for impressive win over France

Spain will now be the big favourites to win this game, as it’s hard to see even this France team scoring three late goals at this stage.

Les Bleus have long looked like the favourites for this year’s World Cup, but it looks like their tournament may now be coming to an end.

In fairness, Spain have also looked like one of the big favourites to go all the way in this competition, having won Euro 2024 two years ago.

Spain last won this trophy back in 2010, which is also the only time they’ve ever won it in their history, but they’ll perhaps be the clear frontrunners now if they see this game through.

Knocking out this France team is some statement, with the Spain defence doing well to keep elite attacking talents like Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, and Michael Olise quiet.

In fairness, one big issue for France was the William Saliba injury in the first half, with the Arsenal defender one of the very best in the world in his position, and one of his country’s most important players.

The post Video: Pedro Porro’s superb finish puts Spain 2-0 up vs France but PL defender completely falls asleep appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Fabrizio Romano reveals Manchester United “made a call” to star’s agent over surprise transfer

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 00:21

Manchester United have reportedly had recent contact with the agents of Roma midfielder Manu Kone as they look for a third signing in that position this summer.

The Red Devils have already officially confirmed the arrivals of both Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos in midfield, but it seems they’re surprisingly still looking for more in that area of their squad.

A replacement for the departing Casemiro was undoubtedly needed, while Manuel Ugarte is also injured after generally struggling for form, so two new signings looked sensible.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

A third perhaps looks like a bit too much, however, when other positions also surely need strengthening.

Still, Romano says United have had contact over Kone as they continue to look for new additions in that department.

Fabrizio Romano on Manchester United’s Manu Kone pursuit

Speaking in his latest post on his YouTube channel, Romano said: “Manchester United are still looking at midfielders. (There are) many names among the defensive midfielders.

“Many of you asking me, can you give us some names? It’s still early to indicate who is going to be the wanted player for Manchester United. I will tell you in the next days was going to develop there.

“I can tell you, for example, that Manchester United made a call to the agents of Manu Kone from Roma – (he) is one of the players they appreciate. There was a call over the recent days. Let’s see if it’s going to develop.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

“They have more targets at defensive midfielders. But Man United are looking for that kind of player.”

MUFC are clearly determined to make sure they have plenty of quality and depth in midfield, and Kone looks like he could be a good option.

Still, it will be interesting to see what this means for Kobbie Mainoo’s playing time after such impressive form at Old Trafford last season.

The post Fabrizio Romano reveals Manchester United “made a call” to star’s agent over surprise transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

“Both sides” expect Arsenal transfer deal for 22-goal star to “progress soon”

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
15 July 2026 at 00:03

It seems everyone involved in the Christos Tzolis to Arsenal transfer deal expects this to happen soon, according to the reliable Hand of Arsenal account.

Tzolis, currently of Club Brugge, has shone during his time in Belgium, as well as with his performances for the Greek national team, and it could be that he’s about to earn himself a big move this summer.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The 24-year-old scored 22 goals in total in the season just gone, so looks very much like the kind of prolific goal-scoring winger Arsenal will need to replace the departing Leandro Trossard.

See below for HoA’s latest update on all the major Arsenal transfer news, which features a line on Tzolis looking like happening soon…

Julian Alvarez

– From my last update, every single point still remains true
– Arteta sees Julian as a major marquee transformational signing
– There are direct fresh contacts between the ownership at Arsenal and Atleti regarding a possible transfer. There is still a gap in the…

— HandofArsenal (@HandofArsenal) July 14, 2026

“People around the Tzolis deal on both sides expect it to progress soon,” HoA said.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Christos Tzolis looks like a smart signing for Arsenal

While there may be bigger names being linked with Arsenal at the moment, such as Julian Alvarez, Morgan Rogers, and Bruno Guimaraes, all mentioned in the post above, it looks like Tzolis could be a smart purchase.

The Greece international probably won’t be very expensive, and he arrives in fine form after performing so well with Brugge.

Given that he’d probably mostly be coming in to be a squad player, Tzolis looks pretty much the ideal profile, and there’s always the chance that he’ll improve further as he gains more experience.

In many ways, Tzolis looks like someone who could develop into the kind of player Trossard was for Arsenal, and that can only be a good thing.

Gooners will be keen to see more established world class stars arriving, but they’ll also know the value or having reliable squad players who know where the back of the net is.

The post “Both sides” expect Arsenal transfer deal for 22-goal star to “progress soon” appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Major worry for Arsenal as important Gunners star goes off injured during France-Spain

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
14 July 2026 at 23:37

Arsenal centre-back William Saliba has gone off injured in the first half of tonight’s World Cup semi-final clash between France and Spain.

The Frenchman was unable to continue as he seemed to have a sudden problem with his back, and he’s been replaced by Maxence Lacroix.

It is not yet clear how serious this injury for Saliba will prove to be, but it’s perhaps not a great sign that he was taken off immediately despite suffering this problem when there wasn’t anyone around him.

Watch below for the moment Saliba simply had to stop playing as he fell to the ground…

i feel so bad for saliba 🙁 pic.twitter.com/E9n3oQCRDm

— ola ! (@bIuezoya) July 14, 2026

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Saliba was a star performer for Arsenal as they won the Premier League title in 2025/26, and he’s been key for France at this World Cup as well.

It remains to be seen if this will now be his final moment at this tournament, with France 1-0 down to Spain at the time of writing, while one imagines there could be doubts over his fitness for the start of the new club season as well.

William Saliba’s injury concerns going into this World Cup

This is not the first time we’ve heard about Saliba having a back problem, as it was reported as being an issue for him ahead of this summer’s World Cup.

The 25-year-old was reported as looking likely to miss the World Cup, as per ESPN, though in the end he was able to take part, at least until this evening’s flare-up.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Meanwhile, L’Equipe also reported that Saliba may require surgery after the tournament, which could mean a delay to the start of the 2026/27 campaign with Arsenal.

After playing so much football for Arsenal as they won the title and reached two cup finals in the season just gone, it’s not too surprising that it’s all caught up with Saliba a little bit.

AFC supporters will just be hoping this doesn’t mean he’ll be out for a really lengthy period, or they’re surely going to find it very hard to replace him.

The post Major worry for Arsenal as important Gunners star goes off injured during France-Spain appeared first on CaughtOffside.

“Fresh contacts” – Arsenal have directly approached Atletico Madrid over Julian Alvarez

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
14 July 2026 at 23:04

Arsenal have reportedly had fresh contacts over a potential transfer deal for Julian Alvarez, though there remains an issue with Atletico Madrid’s valuation.

The Gunners have been linked several times with the Argentina international, and it seems this story is not going away.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

According to Di Marzio journalist Luca Bendoni, Arsenal have had direct contact with Atletico over possibly signing Alvarez, while Barcelona are also still heavily involved in this transfer saga.

See below for details…

There are direct fresh contacts between the ownership at Arsenal and Atleti regarding a possible transfer. There is still a gap in the valuation of the Argentine. W/@HandofArsenal #AFC

Per @SkySportsLyall FC Barcelona are still heavily involved on the topic. pic.twitter.com/I9h0sL4RPM

— Luca Bendoni (@LucaBendoni) July 14, 2026

“There are direct fresh contacts between the ownership at Arsenal and Atleti regarding a possible transfer. There is still a gap in the valuation of the Argentine,” Bendoni posted on X.

This information was shared with the reliable Hand of Arsenal account, and there’s further information on Alvarez and other Arsenal targets there.

More on Julian Alvarez and other Arsenal transfer targets

According to HoA, AFC manager Mikel Arteta is really keen on Alvarez and views the 26-year-old as a potentially transformative signing for the north London giants.

Julian Alvarez

– From my last update, every single point still remains true
– Arteta sees Julian as a major marquee transformational signing
– There are direct fresh contacts between the ownership at Arsenal and Atleti regarding a possible transfer. There is still a gap in the…

— HandofArsenal (@HandofArsenal) July 14, 2026

It seems Atletico are also really not keen to sell Alvarez to rivals Barca, so that could end up benefiting Arsenal, as long as they’re prepared to pay up.

Alvarez scored 20 goals in 49 games in all competitions last season, which was actually less than Viktor Gyokeres scored for Arsenal.

Still, most fans would surely agree that Alvarez’s all-round qualities would likely make him a significant upgrade on Gyokeres and also on the likes of Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Alvarez is also Premier League-proven from his time at Manchester City, so this wouldn’t be too big a culture shock for him.

Whether or not that makes him worth paying such huge money for remains to be seen, especially when Arsenal also seem to have other big targets.

As HoA notes, the Premier League champions also want Morgan Rogers and Bruno Guimaraes, so unless they make several big sales this is all going to be very tricky to do in line with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules.

The post “Fresh contacts” – Arsenal have directly approached Atletico Madrid over Julian Alvarez appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Fabrizio Romano confirms Cristian Romero is leaving Tottenham, names two transfer suitors

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
14 July 2026 at 22:44

Tottenham centre-back Cristian Romero is leaving the club this summer, with Inter Milan and Barcelona interested, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Argentina international has had a mixed spell at Spurs, while the club have also endured mixed fortunes in the last few years.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Overall, it perhaps makes sense that Romero is keen on a new challenge, and that Tottenham might perhaps also be content to part ways with him.

See below for details as Romano has posted on X to confirm that the plan is for Romero to leave Spurs this summer…

??? EXCLUSIVE: Cuti Romero to leave Tottenham this summer, Inter held talks with Spurs over recent days.

Romero has been offered as option during talks for Djed Spence.

Inter keen but costs very high.

?? Barça also like Cuti Romero.

? https://t.co/kTNiTHRWTl pic.twitter.com/0jripDDK9R

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 14, 2026

“EXCLUSIVE: Cuti Romero to leave Tottenham this summer, Inter held talks with Spurs over recent days. Romero has been offered as option during talks for Djed Spence. Inter keen but costs very high. Barça also like Cuti Romero,” Romano posted.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

What next for Cristian Romero?

Romero could be a decent signing for someone like Barcelona, while Inter also makes sense for him, even if that currently looks complicated due to how expensive the deal would be.

For now, it seems there isn’t much possibility of Romero staying in the Premier League, and that makes sense given that he hasn’t always appeared that settled here.

Despite some moments of quality, Romero hasn’t always looked that well suited to the physical demands of English football.

Still, it’s easy to imagine the 28-year-old still having the quality to perform at a high level in a different league, and perhaps in a more settled environment than he’s had at Tottenham.

Spurs have been poor in the last two seasons, finishing 17th in 2024/25 and 2025/26, so even if Romero could have done better at various points, he’s far from the only one under-performing, and the frequent managerial changes and poor decisions in the transfer market won’t have helped.

The post Fabrizio Romano confirms Cristian Romero is leaving Tottenham, names two transfer suitors appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Before yesterdayChannel-Football

Official: Man Utd announce Youri Tielemans signing, club chief names 3 things he’ll add to the squad

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
14 July 2026 at 22:02

Manchester United have officially announced the arrival of Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, with club chief Jason Wilcox explaining why they signed him.

The Belgium international shone for Aston Villa, and was previously also a star performer at Leicester City, with Man Utd director Wilcox praising him.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Tielemans had been linked strongly with the Red Devils in the last few days, and it’s now been officially announced on ManUtd.com.

Wilcox is clearly delighted to bring Tielemans in, explaining three qualities he feels the 29-year-old will add to this United squad – composure, creativity, and leadership.

Jason Wilcox on Youri Tielemans transfer

“Youri has consistently been one of the most outstanding midfielders in the Premier League throughout the past seven years. He has all of the technical qualities, as well as the ambition and mentality, to thrive at Manchester United,” Wilcox said in a club statement.

“Youri’s consistency is exceptional, and he will add further composure, creativity and leadership to our squad. We are delighted to welcome a player of his influence and experience, both on the pitch and within the dressing room, as we continue to build a team ready to challenge for the biggest honours.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Man United have added a top passer to their squad

Tielemans is not the youngest, and perhaps not always the most consistent performer, but there’s no doubt about the quality he brings when he’s really on form.

This is highlighted in United’s statement, which explains that the former Monaco youngster really excelled when it comes to line-breaking passes last season.

United stated: “Amongst attackers and midfielders, Tielemans broke the most defensive lines per 100 passes in the Premier League as well as making the second most line-breaking passes under pressure.”

While that might not sound like the most eye-catching kind of detail, it’s a stat that managers love, and it will surely help the rest of this United team to shine even brighter next season.

This is the kind of quality on the ball that MUFC arguably didn’t have last season, and it should help Michael Carrick improve this team after he already did such a good job as interim manager.

The post Official: Man Utd announce Youri Tielemans signing, club chief names 3 things he’ll add to the squad appeared first on CaughtOffside.

“Looks absolutely fine” – positive update on England star’s availability for Argentina clash

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
14 July 2026 at 21:46

Declan Rice is looking better after a recent battle with a sickness bug that left him bed-ridden for three days, according to Sky Sports.

Watch below for a video update from England’s training base earlier today as Rice could be seen taking part in a session ahead of tomorrow’s World Cup semi-final clash against Argentina.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

France take on Spain in today’s first semi-final, and by tomorrow night we’ll know whether or not it’s England joining one of those two in this year’s World Cup final.

Luckily for England manager Thomas Tuchel, it now looks like he should have Arsenal midfielder Rice fit and available and in good condition to take on Argentina…

England are training for the final time before their World Cup semi-final with Argentina ???????

Declan Rice is with the squad, who looks to have fully recovered from illness ? pic.twitter.com/MeaoKiOnnz

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) July 14, 2026

The report explains that everyone is in England training now, apart from Jordan Henderson, who injured his arm in that freak incident celebrating the Three Lions’ victory over Mexico.

That’s encouraging, as there have also been some fitness concerns for Reece James during this tournament, so perhaps there’s now hope of him starting tomorrow night as well.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Can England beat World Cup holders Argentina?

England face old rivals Argentina tomorrow and it’s sure to be their toughest test of the World Cup so far.

Tuchel’s side have shown remarkable character and resilience at times in this year’s competition, but they’ll really need to up their game once again if they are to get past Lionel Messi and co.

Argentina are the reigning world champions and will no doubt be desperate to win the trophy again for what seems highly likely to be Messi’s last ever World Cup.

If England can get past Lionel Scaloni’s side, it’s a huge statement that they can go all the way and win this competition for the first time since 1966.

The post “Looks absolutely fine” – positive update on England star’s availability for Argentina clash appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Club director “stunned” by Manchester United transfer decision

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
14 July 2026 at 21:15

Atalanta director Cristiano Giuntoli has admitted to being left “stunned” by Manchester United’s decision to pull the plug on the Ederson transfer.

The Red Devils had everything more or less done to sign Ederson from the Serie A club, before pulling out of the deal late on.

BBC Sport were among the outlets to report that this was due to an injury concern that came up during Ederson’s medical, though Atalanta have denied that there’s any problem with the player’s fitness.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The Brazilian midfielder has been a star player for Atalanta, so they’ll surely be glad to keep him, with Giuntoli adding that they’re now working on tying him down to a new contract.

See below for Giuntoli’s response to Man Utd deciding against signing Ederson, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano on his X page…

??? Atalanta director Cristiano Giuntoli: “We were stunned [by Man United calling Ederson deall off]”.

“Now we are working on a new contract for him”. pic.twitter.com/mrTforgvsl

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 14, 2026

Romano posted: “Atalanta director Cristiano Giuntoli: “We were stunned [by Man United calling Ederson deall off]”. “Now we are working on a new contract for him”.”

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Will Manchester United live to regret Ederson transfer decision?

United clearly decided that signing Ederson wasn’t quite worth the gamble for one reason or another, and of course it would have been a big waste of money if they’d brought him in only to find that he wasn’t up to scratch fitness-wise, or ended up missing a lot of games through injury.

Still, Ederson looks like a top player and this surely won’t be the end of this summer’s saga, with other top clubs surely likely to also take a look at the 27-year-old.

MUFC, meanwhile, have turned to other options, so they’ll hope that new signing Andrey Santos can prove a success, while Youri Tielemans looks like being next, according to the Athletic and others.

Santos and Tielemans are both Premier League-proven, which is a nice bonus to have when signing a player, but Ederson would have arrived more at ‘peak age’ than either of those two, and might arguably have acted as more of a level-raiser for this team.

The post Club director “stunned” by Manchester United transfer decision appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal eye statement signing of 22-goal star with ‘first contact’ made

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
14 July 2026 at 20:45

Arsenal are hoping to sign Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge during the summer transfer window.

According to a report from HLN, they have already made the ‘first contact’ with the Belgian club regarding a move for the 24-year-old, but they are yet to submit an offer.

The Belgian outfit rejected a €40 million offer from Crystal Palace for the player and will demand a club-record fee (more than Charles De Ketelaere’s €37.5m sale). It will be interesting to see if Arsenal is willing to pay a premium for the 24-year-old.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Arsenal need Christos Tzolis

Tzolis has been outstanding for the Belgian outfit, recording 51 contributions (22 goals and 29 assists) in all competitions last season.

Arsenal have sanctioned Leandro Trossard’s departure, and they need a dynamic attacker to properly replace him. The Greek international could be ideal for them. He can operate on either flank, and he can operate centrally as well. He will help create opportunities for his teammates and find the back of the net.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Tzolis could be tempted to join

The opportunity to play for Arsenal will be tempting for him. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and they can offer him the platform to fight for the league title and the UEFA Champions League. The attacker will certainly hope that the two clubs can finalise a deal in the coming weeks.

Arsenal have the financial muscle to get the deal across the line, and it remains to be seen whether they follow up on their enquiry with an official proposal. They have a quality team at their disposal, but they need to improve their attacking unit if they want to consistently compete with elite clubs. Apart from a top-quality creator, they also need to invest in a reliable finisher.

The post Arsenal eye statement signing of 22-goal star with ‘first contact’ made appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Man United and Liverpool enter race for £30m-rated “wonderful player” from Brazil

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
14 July 2026 at 20:00

Manchester United are looking to sign the Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Joao Gomes during the summer transfer window.

According to Football Insider, the 25-year-old will be made available for £30 million. The Brazilian wants to leave Wolves after their relegation, and the opportunity to play for Manchester United will be hard to turn down for him.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Man United could use Joao Gomes

Manchester United need more quality and control in the middle of the park, and Gomes could be an excellent option for them for a reasonable fee. He impressed with Wolves despite their relation, and he has the quality to play for a bigger club. He will add control, composure, and physicality in the middle of the park for Manchester United.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are also interested in signing the Brazilian midfielder. It will be interesting to see if the two clubs are willing to pay the £30 million asking price for him. They have the resources to get the deal done, and the demands are quite reasonable for a player of his experience and quality. He is well settled in the Premier League, and he could make an immediate impact.

Gomes has been hailed as a “wonderful player”.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Gomes is angling for a move

The midfielder will be desperate to sort out his future quickly and join a big club before the new season begins. Manchester United and Liverpool will be able to offer him Champions League football in the upcoming campaign. He will certainly hope that either of the two clubs will come forward with an acceptable offer for him in the coming weeks.

Both teams have struggled in the middle of the park, and they need to sign quality midfielders before the new season begins. Manchester United have already signed Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, whereas Liverpool are yet to address their problems in the midfield.

The post Man United and Liverpool enter race for £30m-rated “wonderful player” from Brazil appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea launch talks with 18-year-old attacker on Arsenal radar

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
14 July 2026 at 19:30

Chelsea are hoping to agree on a new contract with Sol Gordon.

The 18-year-old winger is highly rated within the club and has made his mark in the youth teams. According to Football Insider, Arsenal, Leeds United and Everton are keeping tabs on Gordon, and they could look to make a move in the coming months.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Chelsea eyes a new deal for Sol Gordon

Chelsea are determined to keep him at the club and are prepared to offer him a contract extension. He has a contract with Chelsea until 2027. The Blues will not want to lose a talented young player like him, and it remains to be seen whether they can convince him to commit his long-term future to the club.

Chelsea are looking to build a team for the future and need to keep the club’s best young players. Gordon has the potential to develop into an important first-team player for them with the right guidance. They will probably have to offer him assurance about gametime to convince him to sign a new deal. He is at a stage in his career where he needs first-team exposure to improve further.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Gordon could be a future asset

Chelsea have done well to groom young players in the past, and they could play a role in his development as well. It remains to be seen whether Xabi Alonso is prepared to give him the exposure he needs right now.

Meanwhile, Arsenal, Leeds and Everton are keeping tabs on his situation, and it would not be a surprise if they decided to in the coming weeks. If Chelsea failed to secure an agreement with the player, the 18-year-old could prove to be a solid future investment for all three clubs.

The post Chelsea launch talks with 18-year-old attacker on Arsenal radar appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool keeping close eye on 25-year-old England international ahead of potential move

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
14 July 2026 at 19:05

Liverpool are reportedly keeping tabs on the Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence.

The 25-year-old could be on his way out of the London club this summer, and the likes of Inter Milan and Newcastle United are also interested in him, as per TEAMtalk.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Djed Spence could be a handy option

Liverpool could use more quality in the full-back department, and Spence would be the ideal acquisition. He has shown his quality with Tottenham, and he is impressing in the World Cup with the England national team as well.

He is versatile enough to operate on either flank, and he could be the ideal utility man for Liverpool. Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley struggled with injuries last season, and Liverpool needs more depth in the full-back areas.

Andrew Robertson has also left the club, and Spence will be able to provide cover and quality in both positions. It will be interesting to see if he’s willing to join Liverpool. He might not be a guaranteed starter for them. It would be a similar situation for him, where he would be a squad player.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Can the Reds provide Spence ample game time?

He needs to play regularly at this stage of his career, and the 25-year-old is certainly good enough to start for Premier League teams. Perhaps moving to Newcastle or Inter Milan would be ideal for him if they are prepared to provide him with guaranteed first team action. Spence has also been linked with Everton.

It remains to be seen whether Liverpool follows up on their interest with an official offer to get the deal done. They will have to promise him gametime in order to convince the player to join.

Meanwhile, Tottenham are prepared to sanction his departure for the right price. They have spent heavily in the transfer window so far, and they still need to add a couple of quality attackers before the window closes.

The post Liverpool keeping close eye on 25-year-old England international ahead of potential move appeared first on CaughtOffside.

£80m star “really wants Arsenal” transfer but Gunners “unsure” about one issue

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
14 July 2026 at 18:54

Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes really wants the transfer to Arsenal, but the Gunners are currently unsure about paying his asking price.

The Brazil international has shone during his time at St James’ Park and looks like he’s ready to go to the next level, with Newcastle currently unable to offer him Champions League football.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

It surely makes sense for Guimaraes to push now for a big move to Arsenal or it might be his last chance to take that kind of opportunity as he’ll turn 29 later this year.

See below for the latest on this deal as TEAMtalk’s Fraz Fletcher discusses Arsenal’s links with Guimaraes and a number of other players…

Arsenal's transfer window is kicking off ?@FrazFletcher ?? pic.twitter.com/5UgC9DeOHA

— TEAMtalk (@TEAMtalk) July 14, 2026

Fletcher says the Guimaraes story is still rolling on, with the player really keen on the move, but Arsenal unsure about paying so much for him.

This follows the Telegraph reporting that Newcastle could demand close to £100m for the former Lyon man, which might have been feasible a few years ago, but surely not when he’s at this stage of his career.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Will Arsenal give in to the demands of this inflated market?

Unfortunately for Arsenal, who have never really been the biggest spenders, the market changes all the time and prices tend to just keep going up and up.

It’s easy to forget now, but eyebrows were raised when Liverpool paid £75m for Virgil van Dijk, which now arguably looks like a bargain.

Fees keep being inflated, and that means some slightly eye-watering fees for players like Elliot Anderson and Sandro Tonali.

It also surely means Guimaraes is going to cost slightly more than some fans expect, but that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t still be a worthwhile investment for Arsenal.

The Premier League champions could do with something different in the middle of the park, as well as more rotation options after Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi played so much football without rest last season.

The post £80m star “really wants Arsenal” transfer but Gunners “unsure” about one issue appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea eye £34m move for PSG and Bayern target after identifying key upgrade

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
14 July 2026 at 18:30

Chelsea are hoping to sign the Portuguese international goalkeeper Diogo Costa during the summer transfer window. 

The 26-year-old has done quite well for Porto and impressed with the Portuguese national team at the World Cup. PSG and Bayern Munich are also keeping tabs on his development.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Can Chelsea afford Diogo Costa?

He has a £51 million release clause in his contract, and Chelsea will have to pay to get the deal done. According to reports from Correio da Manha, Chelsea are willing to pay £34 million to sign the goalkeeper. They believe he would be an upgrade on Robert Sanchez. Sanchez has been quite underwhelming since joining Chelsea, and they desperately need an upgrade.

Costa has shown his quality at club and country level. He has the quality to succeed in the Premier League, and there is no doubt that he would be an asset for Chelsea if they manage to get the deal done.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Costa will cost a premium

However, they will need to pay the asking price in order to get the deal done. With other top clubs interested in signing the 26-year-old, the Premier League outfit might need to accelerate their pursuit in order to win the race for his signature.

Costa will be hoping to sort out his future quickly so that he can focus on his football again. He is at the peak of his career, and the opportunity to play in the Premier League will be exciting for him. Chelsea are among the biggest clubs in the world, and they could provide him with the platform to fight for major trophies. The move could be ideal for all parties.

The post Chelsea eye £34m move for PSG and Bayern target after identifying key upgrade appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Crystal Palace eye Arsenal ace as surprise summer move emerges

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
14 July 2026 at 18:15

Christian Norgaard has been linked with a move away from Arsenal this summer.

Crystal Palace are reportedly interested in signing the 32-year-old midfielder. He struggled to get regular opportunities at Arsenal last season, and he needs to move to play more often. At this stage of his career, he will not want to sit on the bench regularly.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Crystal Palace keen on Norgaard

According to Ekstra Bladet, Crystal Palace would be prepared to provide him with an exit route. They could use his quality, experience, and leadership.

He has a contract with Arsenal until 2027, and it would be ideal for the Premier League champions to cash in on him. They will not want to lose him for free next year. Also, he is not a guaranteed starter for them, and it makes no sense for Arsenal to keep him. They should look to recoup as much as possible from his departure and bring an upgrade.

Arsenal have been linked with players like Bruno Guimaraes in recent weeks.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Christian Norgaard needs a move

Norgaard will be hoping to sort out his future quickly and focus on his football. Crystal Palace could be an attractive opportunity for him. They will be able to provide him with European football, and they have a competitive team as well.

The player is likely to be available on a nominal fee due to his contract situation, and he could prove to be a bargain for the Eagles. They need more quality and experience in the team, especially when it comes to juggling European football and the Premier League. Signing a Premier League-winning midfielder would be ideal for them.

The 32-year-old could prove to be a solid acquisition for them in the short term.

The post Crystal Palace eye Arsenal ace as surprise summer move emerges appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Fabrizio Romano drops “here we go” for long-term Arsenal transfer target

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
14 July 2026 at 18:10

Arsenal have reportedly missed out on the transfer of Real Madrid defender Victor Valdepenas, who is set to join Fiorentina instead.

The talented young Spaniard is closing in on an €8m move from Real Madrid to Fiorentina, according to Fabrizio Romano in a post on his official X page today.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

See below as Romano claims Valdepenas will have a 50% sell-on clause and some form of first refusal option with his new club, putting Real Madrid in control over his long-term future…

?? Fiorentina reach verbal agreement to sign Víctor Valdepeñas from Real Madrid, here we go! ??

€8m transfer fee, contract until June 2031, Real Madrid mantain 50% sell-on clause and future control in case of any bids.

Clubs started exchanging documents today. pic.twitter.com/1HrErsjgM6

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 14, 2026

“Fiorentina reach verbal agreement to sign Víctor Valdepeñas from Real Madrid, here we go!” Romano posted. “€8m transfer fee, contract until June 2031, Real Madrid mantain (sic) 50% sell-on clause and future control in case of any bids. Clubs started exchanging documents today.”

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

How Arsenal missed out on Victor Valdepenas transfer

Arsenal have a long-standing interest in Valdepenas, so there’ll likely be some disappointment that they missed out on the 19-year-old.

However, when you look at the terms of this deal with Fiorentina, they’re very favourable towards Los Blancos, and it’s hard to imagine Arsenal would’ve agreed to anything like that.

In truth, this looks like a sale that is very much set up for Valdepenas to come back to Madrid at some point in the future.

Otherwise, even if he leaves Fiorentina for big money, that should be profitable for Real, whereas a club like Arsenal would not generally be in the business of selling star names in that way.

What it could mean, however, is that the Gunners can come back in for Valdepenas in the future if he impresses at Fiorentina, and whatever fee they pay would be split evenly between La Viola and Los Merengues.

Either that, or it could force Real into re-signing Valdepenas themselves.

The post Fabrizio Romano drops “here we go” for long-term Arsenal transfer target appeared first on CaughtOffside.

World Cup star “high” on Liverpool’s list, current club “realistic” on transfer situation – Ornstein

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
14 July 2026 at 17:43

Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola is reportedly high on Liverpool’s list of transfer targets for this summer, according to David Ornstein.

The France international, currently at the World Cup 2026 with his national side, is an exciting talent, and looks like someone who could improve this Liverpool side after they were dealt the blow of losing Mohamed Salah this summer.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Ornstein, speaking in the video below, says that PSG ideally don’t want to sell Barcola, but are “realistic” about his situation as he hasn’t been a regular starter at the Parc des Princes.

This could surely help Liverpool if they do decide to pursue a deal, with the 23-year-old also likely to be attracted to becoming a key player for such a big name in English and European football.

David Ornstein on Bradley Barcola to Liverpool

“Liverpool really like Bradley Barcola. PSG would like to keep him, but they are realistic. He has only two years left on his contract. He’s not a regular starter, and he wants to be, so I suspect he would be open to a move if the right opportunity arose,” Ornstein said.

“Liverpool have him high in their thinking, and I imagine Barcola himself would be attracted to clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal, and so on.

“The price would be very high. Of course, we’ve got to keep a close eye on Barcola and Liverpool, but at this moment I’m not sure it’s at an advanced stage. France are still in the tournament. PSG, I’m told, don’t want to trouble him or take his focus away from the World Cup.

“So, like with many situations, I would imagine this one starts to develop, in whatever shape or form, if that means staying, going, Liverpool or elsewhere, post-tournament.”

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Where next for Bradley Barcola?

Ornstein’s latest information on Barcola seems to point more towards Liverpool than anyone else, but he has also been linked with Arsenal.

With the Gunners having just won the Premier League title, perhaps that could be seen as the more tempting destination for Barcola, but LFC will likely be in next season’s title race, even if they dipped significantly in 2025/26.

Barcola would likely be a major upgrade on Gabriel Martinelli, and in many ways he perhaps addresses a more obvious need in this Arsenal squad.

Liverpool, by contrast, probably need a left-footer to come in on the right-hand side if they really want to fill the void left by Salah.

The post World Cup star “high” on Liverpool’s list, current club “realistic” on transfer situation – Ornstein appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Aston Villa join Man United in race for €50m star “having a great World Cup”

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
14 July 2026 at 17:30

Manu Kone continues to be linked with a move to the Premier League this summer.

The 25-year-old had an impressive season with AS Roma last year, and he has done well in the World Cup with France. Gian Piero Gasperini heaped praise on him recently, claiming he is “having a great World Cup”.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Man United and Villa eye Manu Kone

Manchester United are interested in securing his signature, and a report from AS Roma Live claims that Aston Villa have now joined the race for him. There have been reports that Roma could sell Kone to balance the books.

The West Midlands club are losing Youri Tielemans to Manchester United and is looking to bring in a replacement. On the other hand, Manchester United need a quality replacement for Casemiro. They need more physicality and defensive steel in the middle of the park.

The French International could be an outstanding acquisition for both clubs. He has the physicality and technical attributes to make an impact in English football, and he could make a big difference for both teams.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Kone asking price could be an issue

There have been rumours that he could cost around €50 million. It will be interesting to see if either of the two English clubs is willing to pay up. The opportunity to test himself in the Premier League will be exciting for the Frenchman.

Manchester United and Aston Villa will be able to offer him Champions League football next season, and he is likely to be tempted to join either club. It remains to be seen which of the two outfits can get the deal done.

Kone is at the peak of his career and could be a key player for both teams for the foreseeable future. However, the asking price is quite high, and the two English clubs will probably hope to sign him for a more reasonable fee.

The midfielder has shown his quality in Germany and Italy, and he could be an asset in the Premier League as well.

The post Aston Villa join Man United in race for €50m star “having a great World Cup” appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal now expected to intensify pursuit of two transfer targets after player’s message to the club

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
14 July 2026 at 17:21

Arsenal are reportedly now expected to step up their transfer pursuit of Morgan Rogers and Christos Tzolis after the sale of Leandro Trossard.

The Gunners are reigning Premier League champions but will want to build on that success and try to improve even further after notably reaching the Champions League final but losing to Paris Saint-Germain on penalties.

It looks like the major changes could take place in attack, with Trossard confirming to Arsenal that he plans to accept an offer to join Besiktas, according to TEAMtalk.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

This is then expected to kickstart Arsenal’s spending, with Aston Villa star Rogers one of their key targets, along with Greek winger Tzolis of Club Brugge.

Arsenal to revamp their attack with new signings and sales

The report also adds that Gabriel Martinelli could leave the Emirates Stadium this summer, though Arsenal can also spend significant money on Rogers and Tzolis even if Trossard is the only one departing.

It’s important in modern football to be careful with squad planning due to Financial Fair Play laws, but it seems Arsenal are confident they could invest in signings even without selling Martinelli on top of Trossard.

The north London giants spent big last summer and it helped them take that crucial step forward to land their first title in 22 years, so if they show similar ambition this year they’ll surely feel they can keep improving and perhaps finally land that elusive Champions League title.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

How to improve this Arsenal team

Even if AFC were fully deserving champions in the end, and unlucky to lose on penalties after a 1-1 draw with PSG, there is clearly room for improvement in Mikel Arteta’s side.

Some fans will feel the title could have been wrapped up even earlier with a bit more spark and flair in the front three, and that’s where someone like Rogers could have a major influence.

And in that final against PSG, Arteta’s side struggled to keep the ball and create enough, even if they were defensively solid, so in future we could perhaps see a more even game with the presence of players like Rogers and Tzolis who can give them more initiative and forward momentum.

The post Arsenal now expected to intensify pursuit of two transfer targets after player’s message to the club appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham set sights on 30-G/A winger after World Cup wondergoal

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
14 July 2026 at 17:00

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the Benfica attacker Andreas Schjelderup.

The 22-year-old has 15 goals and 15 assists to his name since joining Benfica, and he has impressed at the international level in Norway.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Spurs want to sign Andreas Schjelderup

According to reports from Portugal via Sport Witness, the player will cost €50 million. Tottenham are keen on securing his signature, and it remains to be seen whether they are prepared to pay the asking price.

They need more quality on the flanks, and the Norwegian International will add peace, flair, and unpredictability. He can create opportunities and score goals. He scored an outstanding solo goal against England in the quarter-finals of the World Cup.

However, the asking price is quite high, and it could complicate any potential move. Tottenham need to improve multiple areas of the squad, and they have already invested significantly in the midfield. €50 million is considered too expensive for an unproven talent.

Other clubs are also interested in the 22-year-old, and it will be interesting to see how the situation develops. His performance in the World Cup has seen his value skyrocket, and Benfica are unwilling to yield.

Unless the player decides to force an exit, the Portuguese outfit will hold all the cards in the transfer battle.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Spurs could use Schjelderup

Tottenham must improve the attacking unit before the window closes. Adding a quality wide player and a striker should be top priorities. It remains to be seen whether they can bring in the necessary additions and turn things around after a disappointing season.

The opportunity to play in the Premier League will be exciting for the Norwegian, and regular game time in England could help him improve further. There is no doubt he will be excited to move to the Premier League if the opportunity presents itself.

The post Tottenham set sights on 30-G/A winger after World Cup wondergoal appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Andoni Iraola makes decision on the future of injury-hit Liverpool player

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
14 July 2026 at 16:30

Stefan Bajcetic has been linked with a permanent move away from Liverpool this summer.

The 21-year-old defensive midfielder was highly rated within the club, but he has suffered multiple serious injuries and has had barely any gametime in recent seasons. Naturally, there are rumours that he could be sold in the coming weeks.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Iraola could hand Stefan Bajcetic another chance

However, a report from Radio Marca claims that the newly appointed Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola admires the talented young midfielder, and he could give the 21-year-old a lifeline at the Premier League club.

It will be interesting to see whether the Spanish midfielder can impress during the preseason and convince the manager to keep him at the club.

When he broke into the first team scene at Liverpool, he was regarded as one of the finest young talents at the club. He has the maturity, composure, technical ability, and intelligence to compete at a high-level.

There is no doubt that he had the potential to play regularly for the first team. However, injuries have halted his development. It remains to be seen whether he is at the level to play for a club like Liverpool.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Can Bajcetic redeem himself?

It seems that a massive pre-season is now ahead of the young midfielder, and he will need to seize the opportunity and prove to the manager that he is good enough to continue at a top club like Liverpool.

However, if he stays at the club, he needs to secure gametime assurance. At this stage of his career, sitting on the bench every week would be detrimental to his growth. He will need ample opportunities to express himself and to continue improving.

The post Andoni Iraola makes decision on the future of injury-hit Liverpool player appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham line up move for 23-year-old exciting creator from Serie A gaints

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
14 July 2026 at 16:00

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing the Napoli attacking midfielder Antonio Vergara.

The 23-year-old impressed with his cameos last season, and Spurs have expressed interest in signing him. According to a report from Area Napoli, multiple other Italian clubs are keeping tabs on his situation.

However, Napoli is unwilling to let him leave, and they are already holding talks with his representatives regarding a contract renewal. It will be interesting to see if Spurs follow up on their interest with an official offer to sign the player.

They could use more depth in the final third, and Vergara would be the ideal utility man for them. He can operate centrally as well as on the flanks. He could add technical ability, creativity, and flair to the team.

The 23-year-old was not a guaranteed starter for Napoli last season, and if Tottenham can provide him with the necessary assurances, he could be drawn to the idea of moving to England. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.

Tottenham have been very active in the market this summer, and they have already spent a substantial amount of money to improve the squad. However, they must add more quality in the final third before the window closes.

Apart from creativity, they also need a reliable goal scorer who can find the back of the net regularly.

They finished 17th in the league table last season, and it is clear that the club hierarchy does not want to be in that position once again. They are spending heavily so that they can bounce back strongly. It remains to be seen whether Tottenham and Roberto De Zerbi convince the 23-year-old Italian to join the club this summer.

The post Tottenham line up move for 23-year-old exciting creator from Serie A gaints appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea “closely monitoring” €100m World Cup star as next big transfer target

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
14 July 2026 at 15:30

Chelsea are looking to improve their attacking unit with the signing of Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup.

The talented young attacker has performed well in the Portuguese league and impressed at the World Cup with Norway. Naturally, top clubs are monitoring his situation, and Chelsea are one of the interested parties. However, the asking price could complicate any potential move. He has a €100 million release clause in his contract, and Benfica are unwilling to sell him for cheap.

The Portuguese outfit is not demanding his release clause to be paid in full, but they want around €40 million for his signature. That is still a high asking price for a young player who is still largely unproven at the highest level.

Chelsea Chronicle reports: “Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham are all closely monitoring his development and situation.

“Sources close to Chelsea indicate that the London club could look into the player’s situation, but they will not rush into a €40 million move. Benfica, on the other hand, are absolutely unwilling to sell Schjelderup for anything less than €40 million. Furthermore, the player’s contract includes a €100 million release clause, which significantly limits the bargaining power of interested clubs.”

It will be interesting to see if Benfica is willing to be more reasonable with their demands. Chelsea needs more quality on the flanks. Alejandro Garnacho has been linked with a move away after a disappointing campaign, and they need to replace him.

The Norwegian could be ideal for them. He is a left-sided winger, but he is versatile enough to operate on either flank. He will help create opportunities for his teammates and find the back of the net as well.

The player recently scored a goal against England in the quarter-finals of the World Cup. He has 15 goals and 15 assists in 86 appearances for Benfica. 

The post Chelsea “closely monitoring” €100m World Cup star as next big transfer target appeared first on CaughtOffside.

England vs Argentina semifinal fuels favouritism debate as FIFA announce decision

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
14 July 2026 at 15:16

The build-up to England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina has taken a controversial turn following FIFA’s choice of referee.

With Thomas Tuchel’s side attempting to reach their first final since 1966 and the defending champions chasing consecutive titles, every decision in Atlanta will face enormous scrutiny.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Argentina’s knockout run has already produced complaints about VAR and refereeing, so the appointment was always likely to attract attention.

However, previous connections between the selected official and matches involving Lionel Messi have intensified the debate before a ball has even been kicked.

FIFA appointment adds pre-match controversy

According to the Daily Mail, concerns about possible favouritism have grown after FIFA appointed Ismail Elfath to referee Wednesday’s semi-final.

The Moroccan-born American will be assisted by Corey Parker and Kyle Atkins, while Italy’s Maurizio Mariani has been named fourth official.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

ESPN has also confirmed Elfath’s appointment for the match at Atlanta Stadium. He has already handled three games at this World Cup, although this will be his first involving either England or Argentina.

Elfath served as fourth official when Argentina defeated France in the 2022 World Cup final.

He has also refereed several Inter Miami matches since Messi moved to MLS, including the 2023 Leagues Cup final against Nashville.

Calling him Messi’s “favourite referee”, however, remains a media description rather than evidence of an improper relationship or biased decision-making.

Officials face scrutiny ahead of Argentina vs England

The wider concern comes from controversy surrounding Argentina’s victories over Egypt and Switzerland.

Reuters reported that opponents have repeatedly complained about decisions benefiting Argentina, although former FIFA referee Christina Unkel said the incidents she reviewed did not clearly demonstrate poor officiating.

FIFA refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina has also rejected allegations of bias, insisting that World Cup officials work independently and that questioning their integrity without evidence is unacceptable.

Elfath should be judged on Wednesday’s performance rather than his previous contact with Messi.

Referees frequently oversee the same leading players, especially when they work in the league where those players compete.

Still, FIFA must understand why the appointment has created nervousness. After several disputed decisions involving Argentina, even a correct but marginal call could trigger another major backlash.

Argentina make special request to FIFA ahead of their World Cup semi against England 

The post England vs Argentina semifinal fuels favouritism debate as FIFA announce decision appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Medical completed: Romano issues blockbuster update on new Man United signing

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
14 July 2026 at 15:03

Manchester United’s midfield transformation has taken another significant step, with the club moving quickly to complete a deal for one of the Premier League’s most experienced central players.

Michael Carrick entered the summer wanting greater control, creativity and leadership in the middle of the pitch, and the latest arrival should provide all three.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The move also signals a clear change in United’s recruitment strategy. After investing in the long-term potential of Andrey Santos, they are now adding a proven performer who should be capable of contributing immediately.

It leaves Carrick with more tactical flexibility, but it could also create uncertainty for existing midfielders such as Mason Mount.

Medical completed as five-year deal is finalised

According to Fabrizio Romano, Youri Tielemans has completed his Man United medical and is expected to sign his contract today.

The agreement will run for five years until June 2031, with the transfer described as done and sealed.

Sky Sports reported that United triggered a release clause worth around £35m in the Belgium captain’s Aston Villa contract.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Negotiations advanced rapidly following Belgium’s World Cup elimination, allowing the club to complete the deal before pre-season preparations intensify.

Tielemans arrives with extensive Premier League experience from spells at Leicester City and Villa.

His passing range, ability to control the tempo and threat from outside the penalty area should give United a different dimension.

🚨🇧🇪 Youri Tielemans has completed his medical and signs today at Man United.

Understand the agreement will be valid until June 2031, five years.

Done and sealed. pic.twitter.com/BUanIRheKv

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 14, 2026

Carrick will have a new look midfield at Man United

The Belgian will join Santos, whose arrival from Chelsea was confirmed earlier this week. Reuters reported that United paid an initial £48m for the Brazilian, who also signed until 2031.

Tielemans represents sensible business at £35m. He is entering his prime, knows the league and should not require a long settling-in period.

His composure could be particularly valuable in matches where United previously struggled to retain possession.

However, Carrick must now manage a crowded midfield carefully. Tielemans and Santos will expect regular opportunities, while Bruno Fernandes remains central to the team.

That could be bad news for Mount, whose playing time may become increasingly limited.

After Santos and Tielemans: Man United turn attention towards bargain midfield signing 

The post Medical completed: Romano issues blockbuster update on new Man United signing appeared first on CaughtOffside.

£60m-rated defensive gem ready to jump the ship and move to rivals Man United

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
14 July 2026 at 14:15

Manchester United’s defensive rebuild could soon move towards the left-back position, with Michael Carrick keen to add a younger long-term option before the new season.

Luke Shaw remains an experienced and dependable player when fit, but United need greater competition and a clear succession plan as they prepare to return to the Champions League.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The player being targeted would offer Premier League experience, strong technical ability and the energy to contribute in both halves of the pitch.

However, Newcastle’s turbulent summer means persuading them to lose another important first-team player could prove extremely difficult.

Man United believes left-back wants to join them

According to TEAMtalk, Lewis Hall remains Man United’s first-choice option at left-back, with the club convinced that he would welcome a move to Old Trafford.

The 21-year-old is reportedly attracted by the opportunity to work under Carrick and establish himself as Shaw’s eventual successor.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Hall would initially be expected to compete for minutes rather than arrive with a guaranteed starting position.

That pathway could still appeal because United want a specialist left-back, while Patrick Dorgu is increasingly viewed as a more advanced attacking option.

Shaw is approaching 31, while young defenders Harry Amass and Diego Leon are not yet considered ready to become regular first-team starters.

Would Newcastle United let the full-back leave?

Newcastle have already lost Anthony Gordon to Barcelona and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham, while Bruno Guimaraes has expressed a desire to join Arsenal.

Sky Sports reports that the Magpies are undergoing a major squad transition and remain determined to prevent further damaging exits.

Hall would be an excellent long-term signing for Manchester United. He is young, comfortable in possession and already understands the demands of the Premier League.

However, United should avoid paying an excessive fee simply because he is Carrick’s preferred option. Newcastle have strong reasons to resist, and negotiations could easily move beyond the reported £60m valuation.

United should test Newcastle with a serious offer while keeping alternatives available. Hall fits the project, but smart squad building requires discipline as well as ambition.

After Santos and Tielemans: Man United turn attention towards bargain midfield signing 

The post £60m-rated defensive gem ready to jump the ship and move to rivals Man United appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Mount wanted by two Man United rivals, new signings to push him down pecking order

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
14 July 2026 at 13:25

Manchester United face an important decision over one of their senior midfielders as Michael Carrick begins reshaping his squad for the new season.

Aston Villa and Newcastle United are showing interest, but the Old Trafford hierarchy currently appear more focused on retaining useful depth than accepting an early offer.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Carrick values experienced players who can perform in several roles and contribute positively around the dressing room.

But United’s latest recruitment could significantly reduce the opportunities available in midfield. With one major arrival already confirmed and another moving closer, competition for starting places is about to become much more intense.

Carrick keen to keep Mount at Man United

According to TEAMtalk, Man United have received several enquiries for Mason Mount, with Aston Villa and Newcastle among the interested clubs.

Carrick is reportedly determined to keep the 27-year-old because of his versatility, pressing ability and influence within the squad.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Mount can operate as a No.8, an attacking midfielder or from a wider position, which gives Carrick useful tactical flexibility.

Nevertheless, his future may depend on whether he believes he can secure enough meaningful playing time rather than becoming a rotation option.

New arrivals could be bad news for Mount

The signing of Andrey Santos creates an immediate challenge.

Santos is younger, technically secure and capable of playing in central and deeper midfield positions, so the club will naturally want to give its new £48m investment regular opportunities.

The expected arrival of Youri Tielemans could make Mount’s position even more difficult.

The Guardian reports that United are in advanced negotiations for the Belgium international, who  has a £35m release clause and offers considerable Premier League experience.

Carrick is right to value Mount, but United’s transfer activity suggests he may no longer be close to the first-choice midfield. Santos represents the future, while Tielemans would likely arrive expecting an important role immediately.

Mount should stay only if Carrick can offer him a clear pathway to regular minutes. Otherwise, interest from Villa or Newcastle could become increasingly attractive.

After Santos and Tielemans: Man United turn attention towards bargain midfield signing

The post Mount wanted by two Man United rivals, new signings to push him down pecking order appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool step up interest in Norway’s World Cup hero who is ready for a new challenge

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
14 July 2026 at 12:47

Liverpool’s search for greater quality and long-term security in wide attacking areas has led them towards another of Europe’s rising talents.

With the Reds continuing to plan beyond Mohamed Salah, their recruitment team appear to be assessing younger wingers who can develop into major contributors rather than expecting one player to replace the Egyptian’s extraordinary output immediately.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

A move for a player already producing at Champions League and international level would fit that approach.

However, Liverpool are not alone in the race, and his impressive World Cup campaign has only increased Benfica’s negotiating power.

Liverpool join crowded Premier League race

According to A Bola, Liverpool are interested in Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup, with Chelsea and Tottenham also closely monitoring his situation.

The 22-year-old is considering taking on a new challenge despite having two years remaining on his contract, but Benfica are expected to demand at least €40m before considering a sale.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Liverpool’s admiration was reported before the World Cup reached its closing stages.

Liverpool’s transfer media watch previously identified Schjelderup as an attacking option for the Reds, while also noting Tottenham’s interest in the Norwegian international.

Schjelderup appeared six times as Norway reached the World Cup quarter-finals, using the tournament to demonstrate his confidence, direct running and ability to create danger from the left.

WHAT AN UNBELIEVABLE GOAL BY SCHJELDERUP!!!! WOW 🤯 🇳🇴 pic.twitter.com/myeiNzh6vQ

— GoalAlert HQ ⚽ 🥅 (@GoalAlertHQ) July 11, 2026

The deal could appeal to Iraola and his team

His finest World Cup moment came against England, when he opened the scoring with a superb effort before Norway eventually suffered a 2-1 extra-time defeat.

The Guardian described how his strike put England under major pressure in Miami.

Schjelderup would offer Liverpool a technically gifted winger who can drift inside, carry the ball and contribute goals. At €40m, he would also be considerably cheaper than several of the club’s other reported attacking targets.

Liverpool should explore this deal seriously. Schjelderup is still developing, but his age, European experience and strong international performances make him an attractive long-term investment.

However, the Reds should avoid being dragged into a bidding war with Chelsea and Tottenham. He would arrive as a promising option rather than a guaranteed Salah replacement, so Liverpool must ensure the final fee reflects that reality.

Liverpool star’s verdict fuels excitement over ‘great player’ wanted by the Reds 

The post Liverpool step up interest in Norway’s World Cup hero who is ready for a new challenge appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham dream of emotional reunion set to end after Bayern Munich development

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
14 July 2026 at 11:52

Bayern Munich are working to remove any uncertainty surrounding their leading striker before his contract situation becomes a serious distraction.

With only one year remaining on his current agreement, speculation has naturally increased, particularly as several of Europe’s biggest clubs are searching for an experienced centre-forward.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Tottenham continue to dream of an emotional reunion, while Barcelona and Real Madrid are closely monitoring developments.

However, Bayern remain relaxed and believe the England captain is happy in Munich, leaving interested clubs waiting for a contract breakdown that may never arrive.

Contract talks leave interested clubs waiting

According to TEAMtalk, Bayern are confident Harry Kane will sign a new long-term contract, with negotiations between the club and his representatives progressing positively.

The German champions reportedly view an extension as a matter of “when, not if,” despite interest from Tottenham, Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Kane’s existing deal expires in June 2027, as confirmed by Bayern Munich’s official player profile.

That places Bayern under some pressure to secure an agreement, as allowing talks to drift into 2027 could weaken their control over his future.

Barcelona have already explored the possibility of signing him. talkSPORT reported that representatives of the Spanish champions had made contact while Bayern planned to resume negotiations after the World Cup.

Real Madrid have also requested updates, while Tottenham remain hopeful that Kane will eventually return to north London.

Staying in Bayern Munich may be the sensible choice

Kane’s situation is very different from when he left Tottenham in 2023.

He is settled in Germany, remains Bayern’s attacking leader and continues to compete for the biggest trophies.

A Saudi Pro League move is reportedly not under consideration, while any switch to MLS would be viewed as a longer-term possibility.

Staying at Bayern is currently the most logical decision. He remains the central figure in their attack and would be difficult to replace, which should give him considerable influence during contract negotiations.

A Tottenham return would carry emotional appeal, while Barcelona or Real Madrid would offer a fresh challenge.

However, leaving a stable and successful environment at this stage of his career would involve significant risk.

“We’ll see what happens”: Tottenham ace refuses to shut the door on blockbuster transfe

The post Tottenham dream of emotional reunion set to end after Bayern Munich development appeared first on CaughtOffside.

‘He has a very good mentality’ – Chelsea player earns major praise from new boss Alonso

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
14 July 2026 at 11:40

Chelsea’s preparations for the new Premier League season are beginning to gather momentum under Xabi Alonso, and one of the manager’s first major decisions has been to add more flexibility to his defence.

Following an inconsistent campaign, the Blues need players who can operate in different systems without weakening the balance of the team.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

That makes their latest defensive addition particularly interesting. Chelsea have not simply signed a conventional right-back, they have recruited a physically strong, tactically adaptable player who could be used on either flank or as part of several different defensive structures.

Alonso’s early comments suggest that versatility was one of the main reasons behind the move.

Alonso highlights versatility and strong mentality

According to Xabi Alonso, he is “very happy” with Marco Palestra and believes the Italian offers valuable positional flexibility.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

The Chelsea manager highlighted his ability to play in a back four or a back five, while also noting that he has previously operated on the left side.

He said, as reported by Fabrizio Romano:

“I’m very happy with Palestra. He’s a player that gives you versatility in positioning, he can play in a back 4 or back 5”.

“He even played on the left sometimes, physically strong, he has a very good mentality”.

Alonso also praised the defender’s physical strength and mentality, qualities that could help him adjust to the intensity of English football.

The 21-year-old, who made his senior Italy debut earlier in 2026, was also named Serie A’s Defender of the Year last season.

New signing could help shape Chelsea tactically

Palestra is Alonso’s first signing as Chelsea manager, making the transfer an early indication of how he intends to build his team.

He remains Chelsea’s only major addition so far, with Alonso demanding greater hunger, passion and tactical discipline from his squad.

Palestra looks like a signing made with the manager’s system firmly in mind. His ability to play as a full-back or wing-back should allow Alonso to switch formations without needing to make substitutions.

However, Chelsea supporters should still give him time to adapt.

Serie A and the Premier League place very different demands on defenders, particularly in terms of pace and physical pressure.

Sources: Chelsea demand of £75m considered ‘excessive’ for versatile full-back

The post ‘He has a very good mentality’ – Chelsea player earns major praise from new boss Alonso appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Sources: Chelsea demand of £75m considered ‘excessive’ for versatile full-back

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
14 July 2026 at 10:19

Manchester City’s search for a specialist right-back has become one of the key stories of Enzo Maresca’s first transfer window at the Etihad.

The new manager wants a defender who can contribute in possession, move into advanced areas and adapt between different structures without disrupting the team’s rhythm.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

A reunion with a player Maresca previously coached at Chelsea would reduce the usual adaptation period.

However, the significant difference between the clubs’ valuations means City must decide whether to increase their offer or move quickly towards a more affordable alternative.

Chelsea full-back open to a move to Man City

Sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside that Man City have identified Malo Gusto as one of their leading defensive targets and believe the France international would be open to joining them.

City have considered an offer in the region of €45m, but Chelsea are demanding approximately £75m for the 23-year-old.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

The price gap remains the biggest obstacle. City Xtra reports that City will not meet Chelsea’s current valuation, although further discussions are expected after the World Cup.

Chelsea are not completely against a sale, but they will only negotiate seriously if their financial expectations are respected.

Gusto’s familiarity with Maresca’s methods is a major attraction. He made 72 appearances under the Italian at Stamford Bridge, producing two goals and six assists, so City would be signing someone who already understands the manager’s tactical demands.

High valuation could force City towards other targets

Chelsea hold a strong negotiating position because Gusto remains under a long-term contract and they have little reason to strengthen a domestic rival cheaply.

His versatility and Premier League experience also make him more valuable than an unproven overseas option.

But City consider Chelsea’s demand ‘excessive‘ and they may now turn their attention towards other targets.

City could consider Newcastle’s Tino Livramento, Feyenoord youngster Givairo Read or Porto’s Martim Fernandes if Chelsea refuse to compromise.

Gusto would be an excellent tactical signing for Maresca, but £75m is too much. City need a natural right-back, yet paying a premium simply because the manager knows the player would be poor financial planning.

Chelsea are entitled to protect their asset, especially when selling to a rival.

“Yes, yes” – Alonso confirms his desire to work with player heavily linked with Chelsea exit

The post Sources: Chelsea demand of £75m considered ‘excessive’ for versatile full-back appeared first on CaughtOffside.

England boss Tuchel faces selection headache ahead of Argentina clash

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
14 July 2026 at 09:49

England’s preparations for their World Cup semi-final against Argentina have been complicated by a late fitness concern in midfield.

Thomas Tuchel’s side are one victory away from reaching their first World Cup final since 1966, making the availability of every senior player especially important.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The Three Lions showed resilience to defeat Norway 2-1 after extra time in the quarter-final, but the demanding conditions and quick turnaround have taken a physical toll.

With Argentina likely to crowd central areas and look to control possession through Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister and Rodrigo De Paul, England will want their strongest possible midfield available in Atlanta.

England remain optimisitc despite illness concern

According to the BBC, England will make a late decision on Declan Rice’s availability for Wednesday’s semi-final.

The Arsenal midfielder is still experiencing the effects of a sickness bug, although his condition is improving and the England camp remain optimistic that he will be able to start.

Rice missed training sessions before the Norway game and was substituted at half-time after struggling physically.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

However, The Guardian reports that he is winning his fitness battle, with Tuchel hoping to pair him with Elliot Anderson against the defending champions.

The midfielder’s importance goes beyond his defensive work. Rice gives England experience, protects the centre-backs and provides the physical power needed to compete with Argentina’s aggressive midfield.

If he cannot start, Kobbie Mainoo or Eberechi Eze could be considered, although either selection would change the balance of the team.

Tuchel must avoid taking unnecessary risk

England’s official match information confirms that the semi-final will be played at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday evening, with the winner advancing to Sunday’s final.

It will be the countries’ first meeting for 21 years and their first World Cup encounter since 2002. England Football has also highlighted the long and often controversial history surrounding the rivalry.

Rice should start only if England’s medical staff are convinced he can maintain his intensity. A semi  final against Argentina is not the match to carry a midfielder who is still feeling weak.

However, his influence makes waiting until the last possible moment understandable.

A fully functioning Rice could be crucial to stopping Argentina from controlling the game, but an unwell version may leave England exposed when the tempo rises.

Argentina make special request to FIFA ahead of their World Cup semi against England

The post England boss Tuchel faces selection headache ahead of Argentina clash appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal reconsider move for Arteta’s top target after confusion over transfer price

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
14 July 2026 at 09:33

Arsenal’s pursuit of another elite midfielder has reached an unexpected crossroads, with the club now deciding whether the deal still represents good value.

The Gunners originally believed a rare market opportunity had emerged, but Newcastle United’s actual asking price is considerably higher than the figure discussed during early conversations.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

That difference matters because Arsenal are also trying to strengthen their attack and other areas of Mikel Arteta’s squad.

Sporting director Andrea Berta must now determine whether spending close to £90m on one midfielder is sensible or whether those funds would be better divided across several positions.

Arsenal discover £50m agreement does not exist

According to The Telegraph, Berta held discussions with intermediaries after receiving encouragement that Bruno Guimaraes could leave Newcastle for approximately £50m.

It was suggested that the Magpies had privately promised their captain a reduced-price departure if they failed to qualify for the Champions League.

However, after checks involving former Newcastle co-owner Amanda Staveley, Arsenal reportedly discovered that no such agreement had ever been made.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Newcastle instead want at least £80m, with some indications that the final cost could reach £90m.

The midfielder would also reportedly expect wages of around £300,000 per week.

The player’s desire may still give Arsenal encouragement. Sky Sports reported that Guimaraes has told Newcastle he wants to join the Premier League champions, although Arsenal had not formally contacted the club at the time.

Newcastle maintain that their captain is not for sale.

Gunners could reassess their options in the market

The Guardian also reported that Arsenal were preparing an offer of around £60m after holding talks with the Brazilian’s representatives.

Guimaraes has two years remaining on his contract, plus an option for another season, leaving Newcastle in a strong position.

Arsenal should remain interested but refuse to meet an inflated price. Guimaraes is Premier League-proven, technically excellent and capable of improving the midfield immediately.

However, a package approaching £90m alongside £300,000-a-week wages would be a major commitment for a 28-year-old. Arsenal should make one serious offer and walk away if Newcastle refuse to compromise.

The original £50m opportunity looked exceptional. At nearly double that amount, the transfer becomes a much more difficult gamble.

Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal authorisation to seal attacker transfer

The post Arsenal reconsider move for Arteta’s top target after confusion over transfer price appeared first on CaughtOffside.

“Yes, yes” – Alonso confirms his desire to work with player heavily linked with Chelsea exit

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
14 July 2026 at 09:26

Chelsea’s preparations for the new season have begun with one major question hanging over their midfield.

After a disappointing campaign and another change in the dugout, Xabi Alonso must decide which senior players will form the foundation of his Stamford Bridge rebuild.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Enzo Fernández’s future has been the subject of growing speculation, with the Argentina international linked with a possible move away from west London.

However, Alonso’s first public comments on the situation suggest he sees the midfielder as an important part of his plans rather than someone Chelsea should actively look to sell.

Alonso makes his position clear on Fernández

According to Fabrizio Romano, Alonso confirmed that he has already spoken directly with Fernández.

The Chelsea manager refused to reveal the contents of their conversation, explaining that it would remain private, but gave a clear response when asked whether he wanted to keep the player:

“Yes, yes.”

That stance was also reported by Reuters, which noted that Alonso wants Fernández to remain as he attempts to establish a stronger identity and restore stability following Chelsea’s tenth-place finish last season.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

The midfielder is currently away with Argentina at the World Cup, meaning more detailed discussions over his future may have to wait until his international commitments are completed.

Keeping the midfielder makes sense for Chelsea

Transfer rumours have continued despite Alonso’s position.

talkSPORT reports that Fernández has attracted interest from Real Madrid, although Chelsea would be in a powerful negotiating position because of his long-term contract and major valuation.

Alonso is right to push for Fernández to stay. Chelsea already face another summer of squad changes, and losing one of their most experienced midfielders would create an unnecessary problem.

Fernández’s passing range, movement and ability to influence games from deeper areas could suit Alonso’s possession-focused approach. A more structured system may also help Chelsea get greater consistency from him.

Unless an exceptional offer arrives, keeping Fernández should be the straightforward decision.

Alonso needs leaders and technically gifted players around whom he can build, and the Argentine remains one of the strongest candidates to become central to Chelsea’s new project.

Xabi Alonso gets his wish as Chelsea prepare improved offer to sign wide man 

The post “Yes, yes” – Alonso confirms his desire to work with player heavily linked with Chelsea exit appeared first on CaughtOffside.

After Santos and Tielemans: Man United turn attention towards bargain midfield signing

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
14 July 2026 at 09:15

Manchester United’s midfield rebuild may not stop with the expected arrivals of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.

The Red Devils are attempting to add greater energy, physical strength and Premier League experience in central areas after identifying the position as one of their biggest summer priorities.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Signing another midfielder would leave United with a significantly different engine room heading into the new season.

However, the club must decide whether three major additions are necessary or whether some of their remaining transfer budget should be reserved for other positions.

Man United turn attention to Premier League proven option

According to Football Insider, Man United are preparing a fresh move for Wolves midfielder João Gomes.

The Brazilian is a long-term target at Old Trafford and could be allowed to leave Molineux following the club’s relegation from the Premier League.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

The report claims United are extremely keen on the 25-year-old and hope to add him alongside Tielemans, with a verbal agreement reportedly in place for the Aston Villa midfielder.

The Guardian has also reported that United are in advanced negotiations for Tielemans after deciding to activate his £35m release clause.

Gomes would offer a different profile. His aggression, ball-winning ability and familiarity with English football could give United more protection in demanding matches, while his experience means he should require less time to adapt than an overseas prospect.

Michael Carrick is set to have a new look midfield

Man United have already completed the signing of Santos from Chelsea.

Gomes would be a strong addition if United can secure him at a reasonable price. He would bring intensity and defensive bite, while Santos and Tielemans offer more progression and creativity.

However, United must also provide a clear pathway for all three players. Spending heavily on several midfielders only makes sense if each one has a defined role.

This looks like a sensible opportunity following Wolves’ relegation. Gomes is entering his prime, already understands the Premier League and could give United the balance their midfield has often lacked.

Man United receive boost in race for World Cup star with club looking to ‘balance the books’

The post After Santos and Tielemans: Man United turn attention towards bargain midfield signing appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal authorisation to seal attacker transfer

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
14 July 2026 at 01:00

Leandro Trossard is expected to join Turkish club Besiktas from Arsenal this summer.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have already authorised the move and are now waiting for the Belgian to greenlight the transfer.

Romano wrote on X: “Besiktas remain locked in talks with Leandro Trossard’s camp to sort details and try to get the player’s final green light to the move. Arsenal have already authorized travel and medical. Up to Leandro.”

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Leandro Trossard needs a move

The 31-year-old has been an important player for Arsenal since joining the club from Brighton, and he played a key role in their Premier League title win last season. However, he is in the twilight stages of his career, and this is the right time for Arsenal to move him on.

An agreement has been reached with the Turkish club, and the Gunners are now waiting for the player to finalise the move so that they can bring in the necessary replacements.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Turkey move would be ideal for Trossard

Trossard will be looking to play regularly at this stage of his career, and the move to Turkey would be ideal for him. He was a squad player for Arsenal last season, and his game time would only go down if he stayed.

He will not want to sit on the bench at a big club at this stage of his career. He will be able to play every week in Turkey and showcase his qualities. He has already proven himself in England, and this is the right time for him to take on a new challenge.

It will be interesting to see whether Arsenal can properly replace him. They need a dynamic attacker who can score goals and create opportunities. The Belgian was versatile enough to slot into multiple attacking roles as well.

The post Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal authorisation to seal attacker transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Fabrizio Romano drops here we go as Chelsea finalise midfielder transfer

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
14 July 2026 at 00:30

Chelsea have agreed on a deal to sign the highly talented midfielder Harrison Bettoni on a free transfer.

The 18-year-old has joined the club as a free agent from Wigan Athletic. Chelsea will pay compensation for him. He is highly rated across England, and he has a bright future ahead of himself. He could prove to be a solid long-term acquisition for the club.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Harrison Bettoni joins Chelsea

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the player has signed a long-term contract with Chelsea until 2030.

Chelsea have shown a willingness to invest in talented players in recent years, and it is no surprise that they have snapped up the 18-year-old on a bargain. They will look to help him improve further and establish himself as a first-team player in future.

Meanwhile, the opportunity to join Chelsea will be exciting for the player. He is expected to join the youth team for now, but he will look to force his way into the first-team scene in the future.

Meanwhile, Wigan will be disappointed to lose a prized young prospect like him. However, his contract situation left them powerless to stop him from leaving.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Can Bettoni develop into a star?

Chelsea have helped multiple young players develop and fulfil their potential in recent years. The 18-year-old midfielder will certainly hope to follow in their footsteps and reach his potential in the near future.

If he manages to improve and establish himself as a first player for Chelsea in future, the deal could prove to be a shrewd long-term investment. The 18-year-old midfielder could end up saving millions in the market for Chelsea.

Bettoni will be delighted to have sorted out his long-term future, and he will now focus on his football.

The post Fabrizio Romano drops here we go as Chelsea finalise midfielder transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

“We’ll see what happens”: Tottenham ace refuses to shut the door on blockbuster transfer

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
13 July 2026 at 23:45

Tottenham Hotspur defender Pedro Porro has been linked with clubs like Barcelona in recent months.

The 26-year-old right back has recently signed a long-term contract with the North London club, and he has now revealed that he is very happy at the Premier League club. He has thanked the club for backing him and rewarding him for his performances.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Pedro Porro on Tottenham future

“Right now, as I said before, I’m very happy at Spurs because they’ve supported me,” he said (h/t SportWitness).

“They’ve given me a renewal that I think I’ve earned. So, in that respect, I’m very happy there.”

“Right now, I’m focused on the national team, my club, and the renewal. I’m very happy, as I said before. They’ve given me everything, and I’m grateful for that.”

The Spanish international has been outstanding in the Premier League, and he is undoubtedly one of the best right backs in Europe right now. He has been very impressive in the World Cup with Spain.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Barcelona keen on Porro

It is no surprise that he has been linked with Barcelona. The Spanish champions need more quality in wide areas, and the Tottenham defender could be an exceptional acquisition for them. But he has a contract with the London club until 2031, making it extremely difficult for Barcelona to sign him anytime soon. They would have to pay an absurd amount of money in order to convince Tottenham.

Meanwhile, the defender has maintained that a footballer’s future can be uncertain and that he does not know where he will end up.

“Regarding what you said about Barca and all that, people talk and want the best for their clubs.

“I’m focused right now on the national team and Tottenham. We’ll see what happens tomorrow, because you never know what can happen in football.”

It is evident that the 26-year-old is not ruling out a potential exit in the near future. However, Tottenham certainly hope to keep a player of his quality at the club for as long as possible.

The post “We’ll see what happens”: Tottenham ace refuses to shut the door on blockbuster transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool star’s verdict fuels excitement over ‘great player’ wanted by the Reds

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
13 July 2026 at 23:00

Mexico International Gilberto Mora has been linked with a move to the Premier League in recent weeks.

The 17-year-old impressed at the World Cup with his country and has been exceptional for Club Tijuana as well. Arsenal are also keeping tabs on Mora along with Liverpool.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Gilberto Mora linked with a Premier League move

Mora is regarded as one of the finest young midfield talents around, and he has been linked with Liverpool. Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has been questioned regarding Liverpool’s interest in Mora.

The Argentine international has claimed that the 17-year-old must be an exceptional talent, and that is why Liverpool have been mentioned as a potential destination.

“Honestly, I didn’t see anything about it. When these things happen, you’re always careful what you say, out of respect for the player and the club he belongs to. But if they’re mentioning him as a possible Liverpool player, he’s surely a great player. There’s a reason they’re mentioning him,” he said to Claro Sports.

The 27-year-old midfielder has recently helped his country reach the semi-finals of the World Cup with an important goal in the quarter-finals against Switzerland. His comments regarding Mora will certainly fuel further speculation surrounding a Liverpool move for the Mexican.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Mora could be a future asset

The 17-year-old is an attacking midfielder who could be a quality long-term acquisition for the Premier League club. They could use more technical ability and creativity in the final third. They have done well to nurture young players in the past, and they could help the Mexican develop further and fulfil his potential.

It remains to be seen whether they follow up on their interest with an official offer to close the deal.

The opportunity to join Liverpool will be exciting for the young playmaker as well. Regular football in England could bring out the best in him and help him improve further.

The post Liverpool star’s verdict fuels excitement over ‘great player’ wanted by the Reds appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Man United receive boost in race for World Cup star with club looking to ‘balance the books’

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
13 July 2026 at 22:35

Manchester United have been linked with a move for the French International midfielder Manu Kone in recent weeks.

The 25-year-old has been outstanding for Roma and has impressed with France at the World Cup. Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing the player, and they have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of the midfielder.

Kone has also been linked with Arsenal.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Manu Kone to be sold?

AS Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini has now confirmed that the club will have to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. He has hinted at a potential sale for the French midfielder.

He said (h/t AllRoma): “His future? I think these Financial Fair Play conditions are never so precise and defined; they vary from team to team. Roma also need to balance the books, which have been burdensome in recent years.

“I hoped that returning to the Champions League would be enough, but it’s clear that financial statements are crucial for clubs. I believe there will be more clarity in the coming weeks.”

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Man United could use Kone

It will be interesting to see if Manchester United come forward with an acceptable offer for the player. They need more physicality and defensive steel in the middle of the park, and Kone could be ideal for them. He has shown his quality in Germany and Italy. He has the technical attributes to do well in the Premier League.

After impressing with Roma, Kone could be tempted to take the next step in his career. Joining one of the biggest clubs in the world will be exciting for him. Manchester United could provide him with the platform to fight for major trophies.

Manchester United have improved the midfield unit with the signing of Andrey Santos, and they are closing in on Youri Tielemans as well. The addition of Kone will take them to a whole new level and complete their midfield unit for the upcoming campaign.

The post Man United receive boost in race for World Cup star with club looking to ‘balance the books’ appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Medical ‘later this week’ as Sky Journo drops fresh update on Man United transfer

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
13 July 2026 at 22:00

Manchester United are closing in on the capture of Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa.

The 29-year-old Belgian International has been outstanding for the West Midlands club, and he played a key role in their UEFA Europa League win last season. He also helped them secure Champions League qualification for the upcoming campaign.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Man United close in on Youri Tielemans

Manchester United needed more control and creativity in the middle of the park, and it is no surprise that they have decided to sign the Belgian International by activating his €41 million release clause. He was quite impressive for his country in the World Cup as well, helping them reach the quarter-finals.

The opportunity to play for the Red Devils will be exciting for the Belgian international. It will be a step up for him, and he can showcase his qualities at the highest level. Meanwhile, Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg has confirmed that the player will undergo his medical ‘later this week’, and all details have been agreed between the two clubs.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Tielemans to join up with Santos

Manchester United have also signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea. It is clear that they are looking to significantly improve the midfield. Two quality central midfielders will certainly help them next season. However, they also need to invest in a specialist defensive midfielder. They look quite mediocre at the back, and someone who can break up the opposition attack and protect the defensive unit would be ideal.

Casemiro has left the club, and they need to replace them properly. It will be interesting to see who they end up with. In addition to the departure of Brazilian, Manuel Ugarte has been hugely underwhelming and is currently sidelined with a serious long-term injury.

The post Medical ‘later this week’ as Sky Journo drops fresh update on Man United transfer appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal’s blockbuster move thrown into doubt after response from club chiefs

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
13 July 2026 at 21:30

Bruno Guimaraes has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal this summer.

The Gunners are hoping to add more creativity, composure, and technical ability in the middle of the park, and the Brazilian would be an exceptional acquisition.

He has been one of the best central midfielders in the league in recent seasons. He is at the peak of his career, and there have been rumours that he wants to join Arsenal.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Bruno Guimaraes move seems complicated

Meanwhile, reports have surfaced that Newcastle promised they would let Guimaraes leave for the right price, but Luke Edwards from the Telegraph has now spoken to Mehrdad Ghodoussi and Amanda Staveley, who have confirmed that no such promises have been made to the player or his representatives. This will certainly complicate any potential move for Arsenal. It seems that Newcastle are prepared to dig their heels in, and they want to keep the midfielder.

It will be interesting to see if Guimaraes decides to force an exit in the coming weeks. The opportunity to play for Arsenal will be hard to turn down for him.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Arsenal move could tempt Guimaraes

The Premier League champions could provide him with the platform to compete at the highest level and win major trophies. He is at the peak of his career, and he has clearly outgrown Newcastle. He needs to compete at a higher level, and joining one of the world’s biggest teams would be ideal.

Newcastle have lost multiple players in recent transfer windows, and losing the Brazilian would be another devastating blow. He is one of the best players at the club. They have recently sanctioned Sandro Tonali’s departure, and losing two of their best midfielders in one window could prove catastrophic for them.

The post Arsenal’s blockbuster move thrown into doubt after response from club chiefs appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Man United leave door open for sensational late move for 27-year-old star

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
13 July 2026 at 21:00

Manchester United were heavily linked with a move for Ederson from Atalanta in recent weeks.

The Brazilian midfielder completed his full medical with Manchester United recently, but the Red Devils have decided not to proceed with the deal after a potential issue was flagged following the medical.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Man United to return for Ederson?

According to Sky Sports, Manchester United could still return for the Brazilian midfielder towards the end of the window, depending on how the transfer window develops for them.

Meanwhile, the 27-year-old midfielder will be thoroughly disappointed with the situation. The report claims that Manchester United are sympathetic to the player and his family after the move collapsed at the very end. Manchester United agreed a £38 million deal with the Italian club, and personal terms were also agreed with the player.

Meanwhile, Manchester United have already signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea, and they are set to wrap up the signing of Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa. It remains to be seen whether they are prepared to return for the Brazilian in the coming weeks.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Man United need a defensive midfielder instead of Ederson

They should invest in a quality defensive midfielder instead. It is no secret that they need more quality in the middle of the park, and the likes of Santos and Tielemans will add control, composure, and technical ability there. Now, they need someone who can break up the opposition attack and protect the back four.

While there is no doubt that Ederson is a quality player and he can help out at both ends of the pitch, he is not a specialist defensive midfielder. It remains to be seen what Manchester United decide over the next few weeks.

The post Man United leave door open for sensational late move for 27-year-old star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Xabi Alonso gets his wish as Chelsea prepare improved offer to sign wide man

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
13 July 2026 at 20:30

Chelsea are currently working to sign the Rayo Vallecano defender Pep Chavarria.

The 28-year-old left back has impressed in La Liga, and he is a specific request from Xabi Alonso. Chelsea sanctioned Marc Cucurella’s departure to Real Madrid, and they need to replace him properly.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Pep Chavarria to replace Cucurella

The 28-year-old could be the ideal alternative to the Spanish international. According to a report from MARCA, Chelsea are currently locked in negotiations with the Spanish club, and they are set to submit an offer of around €25 million. They have already had an offer of around €15 million for the defender rejected.

The player has already agreed personal terms with Chelsea, and he is dreaming of the Premier League. The opportunity for one of the best clubs in the world will be exciting for him. He will certainly hope that the two clubs can finalise an agreement quickly so that he can focus on his football and sort out his long-term future.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Chelsea closing in on Chavarria?

Chelsea have now accelerated their effort to wrap up the move, and it remains to be seen whether Rayo Vallecano is prepared to accept the improved offer when it is presented. They will not want to hold onto the defender against his wishes. It is clear that he is distracted after the interest from Chelsea, and he will look to secure a summer exit soon.

It would be ideal for the two clubs to find common ground and get the deal across the line. Rayo Vallecano will need to replace a key player like Chavarria, and they need time in the market. They will not want to sell the defender lead on in the window, with little time to properly replace him.

The post Xabi Alonso gets his wish as Chelsea prepare improved offer to sign wide man appeared first on CaughtOffside.

“We will need him…”: Iraola makes huge pre-season promise to forgotten Liverpool star

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
13 July 2026 at 20:00

Harvey Elliott was on loan at Aston Villa last season, and the West Midlands club had an option to sign him permanently.

However, he did not play regularly for them, and they have decided to send him back to his parent club. There has been speculation surrounding his future at Liverpool, but newly appointed manager Andoni Iraola has now thrown him a major lifeline.

The 23-year-old played just 277 minutes for Villa last term.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Harvey Elliott is set for a fresh start

The Spanish manager has revealed that Elliott will be given a chance to prove himself during pre-season, and Liverpool could use a player like him. It remains to be seen whether Elliott can grab the opportunity and showcase his quality during pre-season.

Iraola said (h/t This is Anfield): “I’ve seen him with this eagerness to show himself, to get himself ready again. He will have a chance during the pre-season; we will need him.”

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Eliott could help Liverpool

He is a versatile player who can slot into multiple attacking roles. He could help Liverpool create opportunities in the final third and score goals as well. He is still relatively young with plenty of room for improvement. He could grow into a quality player for Liverpool with the right guidance.

The manager’s comments will be a huge boost for the player and motivate him to do well in the coming weeks. Elliott has also been linked with Leeds United.

Liverpool needed creativity and ingenuity in the final third last season, and someone like Elliott could be a very handy option for them. He has previously showcased his qualities with the Liverpool first team, creating and scoring important chances. There is no reason why he cannot get his career back on track and establish himself as a useful player for Iraola.

The post “We will need him…”: Iraola makes huge pre-season promise to forgotten Liverpool star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

“There is interest..”: Xabi Alonso sends clear message as Chelsea exit gathers pace

✇CaughtOffside
By:Saikat
13 July 2026 at 19:30

Alejandro Garnacho has been linked with a move away from Chelsea this summer.

Multiple clubs have been linked with the move for the Argentine attacker, and Chelsea are open to letting him leave. Manager Xabi Alonso has now confirmed interest in the player, and he’s hoping a resolution will be reached that suits all parties.

Alonso said (h/t Fabrizio Romano): “There is interest in him from other clubs. Hopefully it finishes in the best possible way for everyone”.

Garnacho has been underwhelming since joining Chelsea from Manchester United, and the Blues should look to sanction his departure before the window closes. They need an upgrade on him if they want to compete at the highest level. They looked quite mediocre in the attack last season, and they need more creativity and goals from the wide areas.

Garnacho scored eight goals and picked up four assists in 43 matches last season.

While there is no doubt that Garnacho is a talented player with a bright future, he has not performed consistently since joining the London club. It would be ideal for Chelsea to seek an upgrade.

It remains to be seen whether any club will come forward and offer him an exit route. He has been linked with clubs from Spain and Italy. He has the technical attributes to compete at a high level, and he is still very young.

There is plenty of room for improvement, and he could develop into a quality player with the right guidance. However, he needs to work on his consistency and end product. Joining the right team could bring out the best in him. It remains to be seen where he ends up.

The post “There is interest..”: Xabi Alonso sends clear message as Chelsea exit gathers pace appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Ornstein: Man United “to proceed” on surprise £35m transfer of “outstanding” World Cup star

✇CaughtOffside
By:Mark Brus
13 July 2026 at 14:48

Manchester United are proceeding with the transfer of Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans, according to a surprise exclusive dropped today by David Ornstein.

The Athletic journalist has posted on X about Man Utd being in advanced talks to sign Tielemans, who has been a star performer for Villa, and who also shone for the Belgian national team at this summer’s World Cup.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Praised by his national team manager Rudi Garcia as “outstanding” (via Flashscore), Tielemans now looks set to earn himself a big move, which has some somewhat out of the blue.

See below for details as Ornstein says United are set to go ahead with triggering Tielemans’ £35m release clause, leaving Villa powerless to prevent the deal even though they didn’t want to sell the 29-year-old…

? Youri Tielemans move from Aston Villa to Manchester United through £35m release clause in midfielder’s contract. #AVFC had no wish to sell + offered new deal but left with little choice due to mechanism & #MUFC set to proceed on transfer @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/KbWwD1jxov

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) July 13, 2026

“Youri Tielemans move from Aston Villa to Manchester United through £35m release clause in midfielder’s contract. #AVFC had no wish to sell + offered new deal but left with little choice due to mechanism & #MUFC set to proceed on transfer,” Ornstein said.

Youri Tielemans transfer comes after Ederson blow

United need to strengthen in midfield this summer after losing Casemiro at the end of his contract, while Manuel Ugarte has been mostly underwhelming during his time at Old Trafford, and is now injured.

Ederson looked to be on his way to MUFC, but Ornstein has confirmed that the deal is off for now, even if it’s one they could potentially look to revisit later in the summer.

? EXCLUSIVE: Manchester United in advanced talks to sign Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa. All parties in contact as #MUFC try to finalise – 29yo midfielder keen on move. Ederson deal off for now; #MUFC may look to revisit later this summer @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/KbWwD1jxov

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) July 13, 2026

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Youri Tielemans finally gets a big move

Tielemans was a top performer for Leicester City back in the day, and at that time it was perhaps a bit surprising that he didn’t end up earning himself a move to a big six club.

The Belgium international has continued to perform at a high level for Villa, though, and it now looks like he’s finally going to get the chance to shine at the very highest level.

It will be intriguing to see how Tielemans gets on at United, but he looks like just the kind of Premier League-proven player this squad needs.

The post Ornstein: Man United “to proceed” on surprise £35m transfer of “outstanding” World Cup star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Man United plot transfer hijack on Man City as €80m midfield race intensifies

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
13 July 2026 at 13:01

Manchester United’s search for midfield reinforcements could lead them into direct competition with Manchester City for one of the breakout stars of the World Cup.

United need more composure, mobility and long-term quality in central areas, but the growing demand for Europe’s best young players means any deal is likely to be expensive.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The teenager’s performances for Morocco have transformed him from an exciting Ligue 1 prospect into one of the most discussed names of the summer.

However, Man United must decide whether to invest heavily in a player for the future when their midfield also requires experienced reinforcements capable of making an immediate impact.

Man United consider move for Ayyoub Bouaddi

According to source on X, Man United are planning to hijack Manchester City’s pursuit of Ayyoub Bouaddi.

The claim has not yet been confirmed by either club, but United are reportedly preparing to enter the race after the midfielder played an important role in Morocco’s run to the World Cup quarter-finals.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

His calmness in possession, tactical awareness and ability to handle pressure have attracted interest from several leading European clubs.

talkSPORT reported that United, City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Bayern Munich have all monitored Bouaddi, with Lille potentially demanding as much as €100m for an immediate transfer.

A deal worth closer to €80m could reportedly be considered if the player remains in France on loan for another season.

Huge valuation creates difficult decision for United

The competition is already becoming complicated.

FourFourTwo reported that Arsenal and Liverpool are prepared to accept Lille’s loan-back condition, while Manchester City are also among the interested clubs.

Bouaddi is contracted until 2029, leaving Lille in a strong negotiating position.

Man United should explore the transfer seriously because Bouaddi has the potential to become an elite midfielder.

Signing him before his development accelerates further could eventually look like excellent business.

However, €80m remains an enormous gamble for an 18-year-old who may not arrive immediately.

United need players who can improve their midfield next season, not only prospects for 2027 and beyond.

Man United ready to finance blockbuster move for England’s World Cup hero

The post Man United plot transfer hijack on Man City as €80m midfield race intensifies appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Man United ready to finance blockbuster move for England’s World Cup hero

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
13 July 2026 at 12:56

Manchester United’s search for an elite centre-forward could eventually lead them back to one of the biggest names in English football.

The club are understood to be watching developments in Germany closely, knowing that a rare opening may appear if Bayern Munich fail to secure their star striker on a new contract.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

From United’s perspective, the appeal is obvious. They would be signing a proven Premier League goalscorer, England captain and experienced leader capable of raising standards immediately.

The difficulty is that Bayern remain confident of keeping him, while several of Europe’s biggest clubs are also monitoring the situation.

Man United prepared to fund ambitious move

According to TEAMtalk, Harry Kane remains on Man United’s wishlist, and the club would be prepared to finance a move if a genuine opportunity arises.

The 32-year-old has entered the final year of his Bayern contract, but the German champions have been speaking with his representatives for months and reportedly view an extension as a matter of “when, not if.”

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is a long-standing admirer and that United are ready to invest significant funds if Kane becomes available.

Barcelona and Real Madrid have made enquiries, while Tottenham continue to follow their former captain’s situation closely.

Bayern confidence leaves United waiting for an opening

Any summer deal still looks difficult. The Independent reported earlier this year that Bayern had entered intensive extension talks with Kane, whose current agreement runs until June 2027.

His extraordinary scoring record in Germany explains why Bayern are determined to avoid losing control of his future.

Man United should keep themselves informed without building their entire transfer plan around Kane. He would provide goals, leadership and the immediate authority required to improve a developing side.

However, United cannot afford to wait too long for a transfer that may never become realistic.

Bayern are confident, and competition from Madrid, Barcelona and Tottenham would make the financial package enormous.

If Kane genuinely becomes available, United should act decisively. Until then, they need alternative striker targets ready, because ambition is important, but smart planning matters even more.

Manchester United consider return to last summer’s top target as Premier League rivals relent over £100m asking price

The post Man United ready to finance blockbuster move for England’s World Cup hero appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Just in: Newcastle United goalkeeper search accelerate after latest round of talks

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
13 July 2026 at 12:35

Newcastle United’s summer rebuild is beginning to focus on one of the most important positions in the squad.

The Magpies want a goalkeeper capable of becoming their long-term No.1, rather than simply adding another short-term option behind Nick Pope.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

That approach makes sense with Pope now 34 and entering the final year of his contract.

Newcastle have already added young French goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen, but he is expected to develop as an understudy.

The next arrival, therefore, could be trusted with an immediate starting role at St James’ Park.

Newcastle open talks over long term goalkeeper target

According to the Newcastle Chronicle, Newcastle have held talks over Parma and Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki as they search for a new first-choice option.

The 23-year-old has built a strong reputation in Serie A and further raised his profile with a series of impressive displays for Japan at the 2026 World Cup.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Football Italia has also reported that Newcastle held initial discussions with Suzuki and his representatives.

The same report says Juventus, Aston Villa and Paris Saint-Germain have shown interest, while Leeds were previously keen before the goalkeeper rejected their approach.

Parma are widely expected to consider a sale, but competition could push the price higher.

World Cup form makes move attractive for Magpies

Suzuki’s appeal goes beyond his age. He is physically imposing, comfortable with the ball and already has experience in Japan, Belgium and Italy.

FourFourTwo highlighted his outstanding saves against Brazil at the World Cup, while noting that he remains Parma’s established No.1 despite missing several months last season with a fractured hand.

Newcastle should pursue Suzuki seriously. He fits the club’s need for a younger goalkeeper who can grow with the squad, and his international experience suggests he would not be overwhelmed by the pressure.

However, the Magpies should avoid being pulled into an inflated bidding war.

Suzuki is highly talented, but he is still developing and has not yet played in the Premier League.

‘Here we go’: Newcastle agree deal to sign Arsenal ace who rejected five offers

The post Just in: Newcastle United goalkeeper search accelerate after latest round of talks appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea make fresh contract with representatives of attacker who has “a bit of magic”

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
13 July 2026 at 12:30

Chelsea’s search for another wide attacker is beginning to gather pace, even after the club recently added more young talent to an already crowded forward line.

The Blues appear determined to increase competition on the flanks while also preparing for possible departures before the transfer window closes.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The latest target offers a slightly different profile. He already has experience in English football, can operate from either wing and has continued his development in France and Italy.

However, Chelsea are still assessing several alternatives, suggesting no final decision has been made over which winger they will pursue most aggressively.

Fresh contact made as Chelsea assess attacking options

According to respected Bologna newspaper Il Resto del Carlino, Chelsea have made fresh contact with Jonathan Rowe’s representatives.

No formal offer has been submitted, and Bologna remain keen to retain the winger, but discussions with his camp suggest the interest is genuine.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Rowe joined Bologna permanently from Marseille in August 2025. In their official announcement, the Italian club highlighted his speed, technical quality and ability to play on both flanks.

Those qualities would suit a Chelsea side looking for attackers who can beat defenders individually and move comfortably between different positions.

West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville and Sporting CP’s Francisco Trincão are also reportedly being considered, showing that Chelsea are keeping their options open rather than committing  immediately to one deal.

Competition for places could shape final decision

Chelsea have already strengthened out wide by completing the arrival of Geovany Quenda.

His arrival means any additional winger must offer immediate value rather than simply adding another development project.

Rowe could be a sensible option if Chelsea can secure him for a reasonable fee. He knows English football, has gained valuable European experience and offers flexibility on both sides of the attack.

Shane Duffy described Rowe as a player with “a bit of magic” in the past.

However, Chelsea must first create space in the squad. Signing another winger without moving players on could leave too many attackers competing for limited minutes.

Sources: Chelsea star makes his priority clear, could be used in swap deal to sign Frenchman

The post Chelsea make fresh contract with representatives of attacker who has “a bit of magic” appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Romano confirms attacker in World Cup semifinal to hold talks with Man United soon

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
13 July 2026 at 11:34

Manchester United could be preparing to reopen a chapter that appeared finished only a few months ago.

After spending more than a year away from Old Trafford on loan, one of the club’s most recognisable academy graduates is expected to return for pre-season and discuss whether he can rebuild his career under Michael Carrick.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The situation has changed considerably since his breakdown with former head coach Ruben Amorim.

Carrick’s arrival has created a possible route back into the first team, although United remain open to a permanent transfer if the right proposal arrives.

The coming talks will therefore be important for both the player’s future and the club’s attacking plans.

Carrick could open door to Rashford’s return at Man United

According to Fabrizio Romano, Marcus Rashford will hold direct discussions with Carrick after England’s World Cup campaign ends.

The 28-year-old has already informed United that he is available for pre-season and will initially rejoin the squad before both sides consider any offers that may arrive.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

The Guardian reports that there are no personal problems between Rashford and Carrick.

It adds that United expect to reintegrate the forward, although they would still consider a permanent exit and have no interest in arranging another loan.

Rashford remains under contract until 2028 after spells with Aston Villa and Barcelona.

Fresh start may suit both sides

United contacted Rashford’s representatives and made it clear he would be welcomed into Carrick’s pre-season group. Barcelona declined to activate their purchase option, leaving his long-term future unresolved.

Man United should give Rashford a genuine opportunity to impress before making a final decision.

Carrick offers a fresh tactical environment, and a motivated Rashford could still provide pace, goals and valuable Premier League experience.

However, the club cannot allow sentiment to control the situation. If Rashford is not fully committed or an attractive permanent offer arrives, a clean separation may remain the best outcome for everyone.

Former Man U defender tells Arsenal to “sweep” left winger up for £40m 

The post Romano confirms attacker in World Cup semifinal to hold talks with Man United soon appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Sources: Chelsea star makes his priority clear, could be used in swap deal to sign Frenchman

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
13 July 2026 at 11:15

Chelsea could soon face a major decision over one of their longest-serving academy graduates, with interest growing from Italy and the Premier League.

The Blues appear open to a permanent sale as they continue reshaping their defence, but the player’s preference may ultimately be more important than the size of the offers arriving at Stamford Bridge.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

Several clubs can offer European football and an important first-team role.

However, Inter currently hold the strongest position because the defender is prioritising a move to San Siro, leaving Chelsea to negotiate with a club that knows the player is firmly on their side.

Inter take control as Como prepare to step aside

Sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside that Trevoh Chalobah has reached an agreement with Inter and wants to join the Serie A champions, although the Italian club have not yet finalised a fee with Chelsea.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

Como initially offered around €25m before discussing an improved package worth €30m plus €5m in bonuses, which would effectively meet Chelsea’s valuation.

Como are willing to withdraw if Inter make a serious push, but could return should the Milan club abandon negotiations.

Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Inter and Como have agreed to avoid a bidding war, with Como ready to step aside once the Nerazzurri formally accelerate their pursuit.

AC Milan and Aston Villa are also monitoring the situation, but Chalobah’s preference for Inter gives those clubs little encouragement unless talks collapse.

Chelsea could look to use Chalobah in a swap deal

Chelsea could also use Chalobah in their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix.
talkSPORT reported that the Blues are prepared to offer several defenders, including Chalobah, in a part-exchange proposal.

Palace may be an attractive footballing option after his previous loan there, but reports suggest Italy remains his priority.

Chelsea should respect Chalobah’s preferred destination, but only if Inter submit an offer close to  their valuation.

His academy background should not mean the club accepts a discounted fee.

Inter would be an excellent tactical fit, offering Champions League football and a realistic chance of regular starts.

However, Chelsea must avoid letting the player’s preference weaken their negotiating position too much.

Overall, a clean permanent sale appears best for everyone. If Inter delay or attempt to force the price down, Chelsea should seriously consider Como’s stronger financial package or explore the Palace swap instead.

Garnacho’s potential exit from Chelsea takes fresh twist as details of double deal emerge 

The post Sources: Chelsea star makes his priority clear, could be used in swap deal to sign Frenchman appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Argentina make special request to FIFA ahead of their World Cup semi against England

✇CaughtOffside
By:Ahad Shaukat
13 July 2026 at 10:08

Argentina’s preparations for their blockbuster World Cup semi-final against England have taken an unexpected turn, with the reigning champions making a special request regarding the kit they will wear in Atlanta.

The decision may seem like a minor detail compared with team selection and tactics, but shirts often carry emotional and historical meaning in international football.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

With Argentina and England sharing one of the World Cup’s most famous rivalries, the choice of colours has already created another talking point before Wednesday’s meeting.

Argentina await FIFA decision over blue kit

According to journalist Gastón Edul, Argentina have requested permission to wear their blue away jersey against England.

A final decision is expected on Tuesday, just one day before the two teams compete for a place in the World Cup final.

Argentina have worn the blue strip only once during this tournament, in their 3-1 group-stage victory over Jordan.

Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust

England have been designated as the home team for the semi-final, which provides a practical explanation for Argentina’s request, although the traditional light-blue-and-white shirt would not necessarily create a major colour clash.

There may also be a superstitious element. Argentina wore darker away colours during their famous World Cup victories over England in 1986 and 1998, creating a possible sense of good fortune around the shirt.

Historic rivalry adds meaning to unusual request

The Football Association has confirmed that England and Argentina will meet in Atlanta on Wednesday, 15th July, at 8pm BST.

England reached the last four by beating Norway 2-1 after extra time, while Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 following another extended quarter-final.

The kit request adds another fascinating layer to an already enormous match.

Argentina are usually instantly recognisable in their striped home shirt, but the dark-blue jersey carries its own history against England.

Ultimately, the colour will not decide the result. Tactics, fitness and handling the pressure will matter far more.

Still, football is full of rituals, and if Argentina believe the blue shirt gives them even a small psychological lift, it is understandable that they want to wear it.

“He doesn’t really know” – Jude Bellingam brutally fires back at Thomas Tuchel’s England criticism

The post Argentina make special request to FIFA ahead of their World Cup semi against England appeared first on CaughtOffside.

❌
❌