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Yesterday — 29 June 2026Channel-Football

After Elliot Anderson: Man City chase Arsenal target impressing at the World Cup

29 June 2026 at 15:30

Manchester City are still keeping an eye on Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, even after committing a huge fee to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest.

According to ESPN, City are monitoring the 18-year-old ahead of a possible summer move.

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That is interesting because the Premier League giants have already made a major midfield investment, with The Guardian reporting that City have agreed a £116m deal with Nottingham Forest for England midfielder Anderson.

Bouaddi is also being chased by Premier League champions Arsenal this summer as Mikel Arteta is targeting new midfielders for his team.

Bouaddi is being targeted by Man City this summer

City’s interest in Bouaddi shows they are not only thinking about immediate starters.

Anderson would arrive as a ready-made Premier League option, but Bouaddi represents a different type of deal: young, technically gifted and with huge development potential.

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The Lille midfielder is already rated highly across Europe. Transfermarkt lists him as an 18-year-old central midfielder at LOSC Lille, with a market value of around €50m and a contract running until 2029.

His rise has been rapid, and his composure in midfield has made him one of the more exciting young players in France.

Arsenal have also looked at Bouaddi, according to ESPN, although the Gunners’ main focus appears to be Newcastle United star Bruno Guimarães.

That could give City an opening if they decide to move quickly.

Would the Moroccan midfielder join City?

Bouaddi is exactly the kind of player Man City should be tracking.

He may not be ready to walk straight into Guardiola’s strongest XI, but his intelligence, ball security and physical profile make him a very interesting long-term project.

The youngster has impressed for Morocco at the World Cup and that is why clubs like City, Arsenal and Liverpool are keen on signing him.

The Anderson deal shows City want proven quality now, but Bouaddi would be about future control. If he continues developing at Lille, his price could climb quickly.

City should not rush into another expensive midfield signing just for the sake of it.

But if they believe Bouaddi can become an elite player, moving early could prove smarter than waiting until the rest of Europe joins the race.

Top priority: Arteta makes ‘fantastic’ Premier League player his number one target 

The post After Elliot Anderson: Man City chase Arsenal target impressing at the World Cup appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Newcastle back away from €100m midfield deal for long term Eddie Howe target

29 June 2026 at 15:14

Newcastle United are interested in Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha, but the Magpies are not currently prepared to meet the huge price being demanded by the Bundesliga club.

According to ChronicleLive, Newcastle have looked at the Germany international as part of their midfield planning, but Dortmund’s valuation makes a deal difficult.

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Sky Sports has also reported that Eddie Howe is a big admirer of the 25-year-old and previously considered signing him in 2023 before Newcastle eventually moved for Sandro Tonali from AC Milan.

Nmecha remains on Newcastle’s radar, but this does not look like an easy deal to complete.

Newcastle United interest faces a stumbling block

Nmecha’s name makes sense for Newcastle. He is physically strong, technically secure and capable of playing in different midfield roles.

He also knows English football well after coming through Manchester City’s academy, which makes him even more attractive to Premier League clubs.

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However, Dortmund are in a powerful position. GOAL, citing Kicker, reports that the German club want around €100m this summer.

Nmecha’s contract runs until 2030, while his release clause is not active in the current window.

That is a major issue for Newcastle, who are trying to be more careful with their spending.

The Magpies may admire Nmecha, but paying close to €100m would be a massive financial commitment, especially when other areas of the squad also need attention.

Magpies should wait for Dortmund to lower their valuation

Newcastle are right to step back unless Dortmund become more realistic.

Nmecha is a very good player, and his World Cup performances for Germany have only increased his profile, but €100m is too high.

Howe clearly likes him, and the club’s long-term interest shows this is not a random link.

Still, Newcastle cannot afford to overpay just because Premier League rivals are also watching.

If Dortmund lower the price, Newcastle should return to the table. But at the current valuation, walking away is the smarter move.

Internal feeling at Newcastle about potential Arsenal bid for £100m-rated star 

The post Newcastle back away from €100m midfield deal for long term Eddie Howe target appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Paul Scholes makes shock Declan Rice claim ahead of World Cup knockout stage

29 June 2026 at 14:23

Paul Scholes has sparked debate around England’s midfield ahead of their World Cup last-32 clash with DR Congo after suggesting Thomas Tuchel should leave Declan Rice out of the starting line-up.

Rice missed England’s 2-0 win over Panama, partly because of a fitness issue and partly because he was on a yellow card after being booked against Ghana.

The Arsenal midfielder is expected to return for the knockout match, especially with England needing control and experience in a game they cannot afford to get wrong.

However, Scholes believes Tuchel should take a more attacking approach.

The former Manchester United midfielder thinks Elliot Anderson should start instead of Rice, arguing England do not need two deeper midfielders against DR Congo.

Reuters also reported that England’s slow tempo and lack of creativity remain concerns despite finishing top of their group.

Scholes questions Declan Rice role ahead of DR Congo clash

Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football, Scholes said:

‘England don’t need to play two sitting midfielders in the next game,’

‘No disrespect to Congo but in those type of games you play as many attackers as possible. I think it has to be a straight shootout between Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson, and I think I would just go with Anderson.

‘I think he will pass it forward a bit more. Think about Rice with Arsenal… look, he’s a great player and a great leader, I get all that, and you’d rather him in your team than not most of the time.

‘But Arsenal didn’t play great football last season either, did they? Rice couldn’t get [Martin] Odegaard in the game, so maybe that’s transferred a bit to England. I don’t think that happens with Anderson.’

It is a bold take, especially because Rice has been one of England’s most trusted players for years.

Still, Anderson impressed against Panama alongside Jude Bellingham, giving Tuchel a real decision to make.

Dropping Rice could prove to be risky for England

Scholes has a point about England needing more forward passing and attacking intent, but dropping Rice completely feels risky.

Knockout football is not just about dominating the ball, it is also about protecting against transitions, set-pieces and pressure moments.

Rice gives England balance, leadership and defensive security. Anderson may offer more progressive passing, but Rice’s experience matters in a World Cup knockout game.

Tuchel could still solve the issue by adjusting the midfield roles rather than dropping Rice.

England need more creativity, but removing one of their most reliable players may create a bigger problem than it fixes.

‘Doesn’t look right at all’ – Gary Neville raises concern over underperforming England star 

The post Paul Scholes makes shock Declan Rice claim ahead of World Cup knockout stage appeared first on CaughtOffside.

‘Doesn’t look right at all’ – Gary Neville raises concern over underperforming England star

29 June 2026 at 13:06

England may have reached the World Cup knockout stage, but Bukayo Saka’s fitness has now become one of the biggest talking points before their meeting with DR Congo.

The Arsenal winger has featured in all three of England’s group-stage matches, coming off the bench against Croatia and Ghana before starting the 2-0 win over Panama.

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However, the concern is not just about minutes. Saka has been managing an Achilles issue for months, having played through discomfort during Arsenal’s title run-in at the end of last season.

England boss Thomas Tuchel has tried to manage him carefully throughout the tournament, with Reuters reporting earlier in the World Cup that Saka was back in training after the injury problem.

talkSPORT also reported that England’s medical staff were monitoring his workload closely.

Neville questions England winger Saka’s fitness

Speaking on Stick to Football, Gary Neville admitted he is worried by how Saka looks physically and emotionally at the tournament.

“Bukayo Saka doesn’t look right at all.

“He’s usually the boy that’s bubbling and smiling, he’s got that competitive edge to him, but he’s not right and that’s a concern to us I think.”

Those comments will worry both England and Arsenal fans.

Saka is usually one of England’s most reliable attacking players, not just because of his quality on the ball, but because of his energy, confidence and willingness to take responsibility in big moments.

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Against DR Congo, England may need that spark. Knockout football is different from the group stage, and Tuchel must decide whether Saka is ready to start again or whether using him from the bench is the safer option.

England must be careful with Saka

England should not take unnecessary risks with Saka.

He is too important for both country and club to be pushed through pain if he is not fully right.

At the same time, this is the World Cup knockout stage, and players of Saka’s level can decide tight matches. That makes Tuchel’s decision difficult.

If Saka is fit enough, he should play. But if there is any serious concern, England have enough attacking depth to protect him.

For Arsenal, the situation is also sensitive. Saka gave everything last season, and the last thing they need is for a manageable issue to become a long-term problem.

Arsenal and Tottenham linked with £35m Liverpool ace in surprise transfer twist 

The post ‘Doesn’t look right at all’ – Gary Neville raises concern over underperforming England star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Top priority: Arteta makes ‘fantastic’ Premier League player his number one target

29 June 2026 at 12:54

Arsenal are reportedly making Aston Villa attacking midfielder Morgan Rogers one of their top targets ahead of the next transfer window, as Mikel Arteta looks to add more power, versatility and creativity to his squad.

According to journalist Sébastien Vidal, Arsenal have identified Rogers as a priority target, with the 23-year-old valued at more than £100m after a brilliant season at Villa Park.

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That interest has also been backed up by The Guardian, which reported that Arsenal have made Rogers a top transfer target, while The Times claimed the Gunners are confident of competing for his signature despite interest from other major clubs.

Arsenal are far from completing a deal for the English star, but this is clearly a name high on their list.

Arteta is keen on signing Rogers for Arsenal

Rogers’ rise has been impossible to ignore.

The England international produced 14 goals and 12 assists last season, giving him 26 direct goal contributions across the campaign. For a player who is still only 23, that output is seriously impressive.

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He also offers the kind of tactical flexibility Arteta loves. Rogers can play as an attacking midfielder, wide forward or even as a second striker, which would give Arsenal more variety in the final third.

UEFA also named him the 2025/26 Europa League Player of the Season after his outstanding role in Aston Villa’s European campaign.

Villa, however, are in a strong position. Rogers is under a long-term contract, and after such a strong season, they have every reason to demand a huge fee.

This could be a statement signing for the Gunners

Rogers would be an excellent signing for Arsenal, but only if they are ready to spend at elite-player levels.

He has Premier League experience, physical strength, end product and the ability to play in several attacking roles.

The £100m-plus valuation is obviously high, but that is the price of buying a young English star from a Premier League rival.

If Arsenal want to stay ahead after winning the title, this is the type of ambitious move they should be considering.

Still, they must be careful. Rogers would improve the squad, but Arsenal should only go all-in if Arteta sees him as a guaranteed starter, not just another expensive rotation option.

Journo issues seismic update about Bruno Guimarães & latest Arsenal plan of action

The post Top priority: Arteta makes ‘fantastic’ Premier League player his number one target appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea receive Sunderland response to their bid for influential midfielder Granit Xhaka

29 June 2026 at 12:46

Chelsea have seen an opening move for Granit Xhaka firmly rejected by Sunderland, with the Black Cats making it clear they have no intention of selling their experienced midfielder this summer.

According to The Athletic, Chelsea submitted an £8m offer for the 33-year-old, but Sunderland turned it down immediately.

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Follow-up reports from talkSPORT say Sunderland considered the proposal unacceptable and have told Chelsea that no further bids will be entertained.

Xhaka remains a Sunderland player, and the message from the Stadium of Light is simple: he is not for sale at any price.

Xabi Alonso wants reunion with Xhaka

Chelsea’s interest is easy to understand. Xhaka worked brilliantly under Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, playing a key role in their unbeaten Bundesliga title-winning season in 2023/24.

With Alonso now at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea clearly see Xhaka as someone who could bring leadership, tactical intelligence and experience to a young squad.

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However, Sunderland’s reaction is also understandable. Xhaka only joined them last summer and quickly became one of their most important players.

The Sun reported that he helped Sunderland secure a strong Premier League campaign and European qualification, making him far more valuable to the club than an £8m fee would suggest.

Chelsea may have based their bid on his age, but Sunderland are looking at his influence, contract situation and importance to their dressing room.

Sunderland are justified in their stance

Sunderland are absolutely right to reject Chelsea’s offer. £8m for a player with Xhaka’s experience, leadership and tactical value feels low, even if he is 33.

For Chelsea, the idea makes sense. Xhaka would be a trusted Alonso player and could help guide a young midfield.

But Sunderland are not a club who should be bullied into losing a key figure cheaply.

If Chelsea really want him, they would need to return with something far more serious.

Even then, Sunderland’s stance suggests this deal may already be close to impossible.

Surplus to requirements: Liam Delap exit edges closer as PL club offer to rescue him

The post Chelsea receive Sunderland response to their bid for influential midfielder Granit Xhaka appeared first on CaughtOffside.

€40m price tag: Chelsea make their demand clear for defender being chased by top clubs

29 June 2026 at 11:52

Chelsea are open to selling Trevoh Chalobah this summer, but they are not prepared to let the defender leave on the cheap.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea value the 26-year-old at around €40m, with the final fee still open to negotiation.

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Como have already made a move for the academy graduate, while Inter Milan’s interest is also confirmed.

However, an offer in the region of €25m is not expected to be enough to convince Chelsea to sell.

Chalobah remains a Chelsea player, but his future is now one of the more interesting defensive stories around Stamford Bridge.

Como bid falls short of Chelsea demand

Chelsea’s stance makes sense when you look at Chalobah’s situation.

He is homegrown, experienced, still only 26 and capable of playing at centre-back or right-back.

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That versatility makes him valuable, especially in a market where reliable defenders are not easy to find.

The Times says the Blues have already rejected a £22m offer from Como.

Como’s interest is ambitious and fits their push to build a stronger squad, but Chelsea clearly believe Chalobah is worth more.

Why Blues should hold firm on Chalobah valuation

Chelsea are right to demand close to €40m.

Chalobah may not always be viewed as a guaranteed starter, but he has proved many times that he can be trusted when called upon.

Selling him for €25m would feel too low, especially when Chelsea know academy players count as pure profit in financial terms.

If Como or Inter really want him, they should have to pay a proper fee.

That said, this could still be a sensible sale if Chelsea receive the right offer. Chalobah deserves regular football, and a move to Serie A could be good for his career.

But from Chelsea’s side, the message should be clear: interested clubs must get much closer to the asking price.

Surplus to requirements: Liam Delap exit edges closer as PL club offer to rescue him

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Winger ‘high on Liverpool list’ becomes priority after Yan Diomande rejection

29 June 2026 at 11:24

Liverpool’s search for a new star forward could now lead them towards Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, with his future in France still described as open.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcola remains high on Liverpool’s list, and the Reds have been keen on the France international since the summer of 2025.

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The situation could change if PSG complete moves for Yan Diomande and Maghnes Akliouche, as more attacking arrivals in Paris may create a decision around Barcola’s role.

There is no agreement between Liverpool and PSG, but this is a story worth watching closely.

Liverpool have already suffered a setback in their pursuit of Diomande, with talkSPORT reporting that the RB Leipzig winger prefers PSG despite Liverpool making a significant offer.

🚨🔴 Bradley Barcola situation remains absolutely open as he’s high on Liverpool list, as reported for months.

If both Diomande/Akliouche join PSG, Barcola future could change in case of big proposal.

👀 Liverpool keen since summer 2025.

🎥➕ https://t.co/bpTBDx79tD pic.twitter.com/P7TCCojIfS

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 28, 2026

Barcola becomes key for Liverpool after Diomande decision

From a Liverpool point of view, Barcola now looks like one of the most interesting alternatives on the market.

The Reds need a long-term solution after Mohamed Salah’s departure, and missing out on Diomande would leave a major gap in their attacking plan.

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Barcola would offer a different kind of threat. He is quick, direct, comfortable attacking defenders one-v-one and already has experience at a huge club.

The Liverpool Offside has also noted that Liverpool are looking at Barcola after Diomande’s PSG preference became clear.

The key factor is PSG’s squad planning. If Diomande and Akliouche both arrive, Barcola could face even tougher competition for minutes, especially with PSG already stacked in wide areas.

Frenchman could be a key signing for the Reds

Barcola would be a very exciting signing for Liverpool.

He may not replace Salah’s numbers immediately, but very few players in world football can do that.

What Barcola could bring is pace, unpredictability and long-term upside.

He is still young enough to improve, but experienced enough to make an impact straight away. That balance makes him a strong fit for Liverpool’s rebuild.

The big question is price. PSG will not let him leave cheaply, and Liverpool must avoid overpaying out of frustration after the Diomande setback.

But if Barcola becomes genuinely available, the Reds should be ready to move quickly.

Liverpool chasing 17-G/A German sensation who will cost €50 million 

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Sources: Man United forced to rethink transfer plans after Manuel Ugarte injury blow

29 June 2026 at 10:32

Manchester United’s summer transfer plans have been thrown into fresh uncertainty after Manuel Ugarte suffered a serious knee injury while playing for Uruguay against Spain at the 2026 World Cup.

Ugarte was stretchered off during Uruguay’s 1-0 defeat after twisting his knee before half-time.

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United are still waiting for full confirmation on the severity, but The Times has reported that the injury could be an ACL issue, potentially ruling him out for 9 to 12 months.

This is a major problem for Michael Carrick’s squad planning, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

Man United had been open to moving Ugarte on this summer, either permanently or on loan, but that option now looks extremely difficult.

Man United transfer plans have now changed

United’s midfield was already set for major work before Ugarte’s injury.

Casemiro’s departure has left a gap, while Ugarte’s expected exit was supposed to free up wages, create room in the squad and help with Profitability and Sustainability Rules.

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That plan has now changed. Ugarte is expected to complete his rehabilitation at Carrington, and because the injury happened on international duty, United should be able to claim salary support through FIFA’s Club Protection Programme.

The scheme covers eligible injuries after the first 28 days of absence, although it only softens the financial blow rather than fixing the football problem.

United have already moved for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, with The Times reporting a deal worth around £38.8m.

The club are also still interested in West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes but face competition from Tottenham.

Signing a midfielder has become even more crucial

Ugarte’s injury makes signing at least two midfielders essential for United.

Ederson would add energy and defensive work rate, but he cannot be expected to solve everything alone.

United should keep pushing for Fernandes if the price is realistic, but they also need alternatives ready.

Alex Scott, Carlos Baleba and Felix Nmecha all make sense as different profiles, depending on budget and availability.

The biggest mistake United could make now is assuming Ugarte’s eventual return solves the issue.

This injury has removed both a squad option and a possible sale. Carrick needs depth immediately, and United must act quickly before the market becomes even harder.

Manchester United attacker set for surprise exit as Bundesliga move gathers pace

The post Sources: Man United forced to rethink transfer plans after Manuel Ugarte injury blow appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Surplus to requirements: Liam Delap exit edges closer as PL club offer to rescue him

29 June 2026 at 09:41

Everton are pushing strongly to sign Chelsea striker Liam Delap on a permanent deal this summer, with the Toffees looking to add more firepower before the new season begins.

According to Football Insider, Everton have offered Delap a contract as they accelerate their move for the 23-year-old.

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Chelsea are believed to be open to letting him leave, but they are not expected to accept a cheap deal, with reports suggesting the Blues are looking for around £40m.

Everton appear to be in a strong position, although several other Premier League clubs are also monitoring the striker’s situation.

Everton make early move for Liam Delap

Everton’s interest makes a lot of sense. The club have needed a reliable centre-forward for several seasons, and Delap offers the kind of physical, direct profile that could suit them well.

He is strong, aggressive, mobile and comfortable playing as a traditional No.9.

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Delap joined Chelsea from Ipswich Town in 2025, with Reuters reporting at the time that he signed a six-year contract after scoring 12 league goals for Ipswich in the Premier League.

His move to Stamford Bridge came with big expectations, but competition for places has made his long-term role uncertain.

The Guardian previously highlighted Delap’s old-school physical style and compared his aggressive edge to the type of striker Chelsea have often lacked.

That is exactly why Everton may see him as a smart option.

Why the English striker could be a decent signing for Toffees

Delap would be a very sensible signing for Everton if the price is right.

He is still young, already has Premier League experience and offers something different to many modern forwards.

The risk is the fee. Paying around £40m for a striker who still needs regular football and development is a big call.

Everton cannot afford another expensive attacking gamble that does not deliver.

However, if David Moyes believes Delap can become the focal point of the team, this is the kind of signing Everton should seriously pursue.

Moving early could be important, especially if rival clubs enter the race later in the window.

Cole Palmer likes Fabrizio Romano’s post about major Chelsea transfer target

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Journo issues seismic update about Bruno Guimarães & latest Arsenal plan of action

29 June 2026 at 09:34

Arsenal remain interested in Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimarães, but there has still been no official bid, approach or enquiry sent to St James’ Park.

According to Lee Ryder, Newcastle have not received any formal contact regarding their Brazilian captain, despite ongoing speculation around Arsenal’s interest.

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That is an important detail because the noise around this story has grown quickly, but interest from one side does not automatically mean negotiations are underway.

Newcastle’s position remains firm. They do not want to sell Guimarães, and unless Arsenal make a serious official move, the situation is still at the watching stage rather than the bidding stage.

Arsenal have concerete interest in the midfielder

From Arsenal’s point of view, Guimarães is an obvious player to admire.

He is Premier League-proven, aggressive, technically strong and experienced enough to improve Mikel Arteta’s midfield immediately.

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Arsenal are expected to keep looking for top-level midfield options, and Guimarães fits the profile of a player who could help them compete on several fronts.

However, Newcastle have been here before. The situation has been compared to last summer’s Alexander Isak saga, where outside interest was clear for weeks before Liverpool made their first formal move.

The Guardian later reported that Liverpool’s first bid, worth £110m, was rejected by Newcastle on 1 August 2025 before the striker eventually moved on deadline day.

That example shows why Newcastle fans may not fully relax yet. A lack of an offer in June does not mean the story is over.

Gunners must decide quicky if they want the Brazilian

Arsenal should not allow this to become a slow, messy transfer saga.

Guimarães would be an excellent signing, but Newcastle are under no pressure to make the first move or invite offers.

If Arsenal truly see him as a priority, they need to decide whether they are willing to pay the kind of fee Newcastle would even consider.

If not, they should move on quickly to other midfield targets.

For now, this is still interest rather than action. Until a formal approach arrives, Newcastle hold all the power.

Arsenal coach leaves as club continue revamp of title-winning staff 

The post Journo issues seismic update about Bruno Guimarães & latest Arsenal plan of action appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool suffer biggest blow as top target to replace Salah rejects them for PSG

29 June 2026 at 09:24

Liverpool have been dealt a major setback in their search for a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah, with RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande reportedly choosing Paris Saint-Germain as his preferred next destination.

According to The Athletic, the 19-year-old has decided that PSG would be his first choice if he leaves Leipzig this summer.

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That is a painful twist for Liverpool because Diomande had been described as the Reds’ No.1 attacking target after Salah’s departure.

Liverpool had already shown how serious they were by submitting a package worth around €100m, roughly £87m, which Leipzig rejected.

There has been no confirmed agreement with PSG, but the player’s preference has clearly changed the mood around the race.

Diomande chooses PSG over the Liverpool project

For Liverpool, this is not just another missed target.

Diomande was seen as the kind of explosive wide forward who could help reshape the right side of the attack after Salah.

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He has pace, directness, one-v-one quality and the confidence to carry a major attacking role despite still being a teenager.

This Is Anfield previously reported that Liverpool were expected to return with another offer after Leipzig rejected their opening bid.

That showed the club were willing to spend big, but PSG’s pull now looks difficult to ignore.

The French champions can offer Diomande regular chances to win trophies, work under Luis Enrique and be part of a project led by Nasser Al-Khelaifi and Luis Campos.

Reports also suggest the player believes PSG can help him compete for individual honours, including the Ballon d’Or.

A massive setback for the Premier League side

This is a serious blow for Liverpool. If Diomande really was their top target to replace Salah, losing him to PSG would force the club to rethink a major part of their summer plan.

The Reds cannot afford to waste too much time chasing a player whose mind is already leaning elsewhere.

They should test Leipzig and the player’s camp one more time, but if the answer remains the same, Liverpool must move quickly.

Replacing Salah was never going to be easy. Missing out on a player with Diomande’s ceiling makes that job even harder.

Liverpool chasing 17-G/A German sensation who will cost €50 million

The post Liverpool suffer biggest blow as top target to replace Salah rejects them for PSG appeared first on CaughtOffside.

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