Chelsea legend John Terry has mocked Arsenal for their over-the-top celebrations after their win in the Carabao Cup semi-final this week.
The Gunners beat the Blues 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium to secure a 4-2 aggregate victory and book their place in this season’s Carabao Cup final.
Terry, however, has hit out at the way some of the Arsenal players celebrated at the end of the game, reminding them that it’s not like they’ve made it to the Champions League final.
Posting on his TikTok account, as quoted by the Metro, Terry played down Arsenal’s achievements and suggested they could still slip up if they really are feeling the pressure.
“I just want to talk on Arsenal’s celebrations after… let’s not forget, it’s the Carabao Cup, it’s not the Champions League final,” Terry said.
“They celebrated far too much for me, I think that showed the pressure that’s on them at the moment.
Gabriel and Kepa celebrate as Arsenal beat Chelsea in the Carabao Cup (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
“I’ve said it before, Arsenal are looking the best team by far in the Premier League so far and I think they’ve got the best squad in the Premier League so far.
“They’ve got a lot of strength in depth and I think they’ve been the best, but also, it certainly wasn’t the Champions League final that they’ve qualified to, it’s the Carabao Cup final.
“Yes, it’s the first competition you can win, I think it’s really important, but that just showed me where the Arsenal team are at at the moment.
“They can feel the nerves and I know every Arsenal fan out there is feeling what I’m feeling, that there’s still a chance.”
Can Arsenal win the lot this season?
Arsenal fans probably won’t care too much about what Terry thinks right now, with their club riding high on all fronts.
Mikel Arteta’s men are six points clear at the top of the Premier League, in the Carabao Cup final, and still in the Champions League and FA Cup.
At this point, there seems a very good chance of Arsenal winning both the Premier League title and the Carabao Cup, and some fans will be dreaming of lifting those other two remaining trophies as well.
Realistically, AFC probably don’t quite have the squad depth for that, given their injury record in the last couple of years, but it’s also hard to see them slipping up like they have in the past, so there will surely be at least one major trophy heading to the Emirates in the months ahead.
According to iNews, Ronaldo could leave for £43m, the value of his release clause with Al Nassr, with a return to Sporting Lisbon looking a genuine possibility.
Another of Ronaldo’s former clubs, Manchester United, are not currently looking to re-sign the Portugal international, however.
Cristiano Ronaldo transfer situation explained by sources
The report from iNews quotes Saudi sources as sounding relaxed about the Ronaldo situation, as other big names could be targeted in this summer’s transfer window.
Cristiano Ronaldo reacts during a game for Al Nassr (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Even if it would be a blow to lose a huge name like Ronaldo, it seems the Saudis remain confident that they could perhaps land someone like Liverpool star Mohamed Salah.
“With other big names leaving, we will look at lots of other marquee names in the summer,” one source is quoted as saying.
“Mohamed Salah and Bruno Fernandes would be the perfect picks. Salah especially, given he would attract an Arab audience as a Muslim.
“Either of those coming in, along with that younger talent, would be huge for us. And really soften any Ronaldo blow.”
Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr
Games
Goals
2022/23
19
14
2023/24
51
50
2024/25
41
35
2025/26
22
18
Cristiano Ronaldo not set for third Manchester United spell
Even if it makes sense that we were always likely to see Ronaldo linked with Man Utd again after two previous spells at Old Trafford, it seems this one is not happening.
The 41-year-old forward may still be a top class player, but paying the kind of money required to sign him at this age is surely too big a risk for someone like United.
In truth, it’s hard to see any European club who could afford Ronaldo being tempted to go in for him after his spell in Saudi football, which is far less competitive than most of the major European leagues.
United fans would surely love to see CR7 return again, particularly after the difficult end to his second spell, but there would also surely be some acknowledgement that that’s based on sentiment more than anything else.
It would be quite a fitting end to Ronaldo’s career, however, if he were to end up back at his first club Sporting.
Still, Falk also noted that Goretzka sees himself as being a good fit for Premier League football, so that could be good news for Arsenal as they’re expected to try again for him this summer, according to Calciomercato.
Goretzka has had a fine career at Bayern, but is not getting any younger, so it perhaps makes sense that he’s about to become available and that big clubs are interested.
Calciomercato’s report also names AC Milan as an option for the 31-year-old, while Falk also reported on interest from the likes of Juventus and Napoli.
Leon Goretzka linked again as Arsenal eye midfield rebuild
Leon Goretzka of Bayern Munich (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
It seems like Goretzka is not the only target for Arsenal in midfield as they look to strengthen in that area of their squad this summer.
Sandro Tonali to Arsenal could be another saga to watch out for, according to the Sun and others, with the Italy international’s agent suggesting his client could leave Newcastle.
“We’ll evaluate and decide what to do in the summer,” Tonali’s agent Giuseppe Riso said about the player, as quoted by the Daily Mirror. “These transfer discussions will take place later. We’ll see how the season ends and then we’ll decide what to do.”
Tonali might be a difficult target, however, as Newcastle surely won’t sell unless they receive crazy money, so that might make Goretzka a good alternative.
Above all, AFC probably need depth more than they need someone to compete with Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi for a starting spot.
Tonali is someone Arsenal would sign if they wanted to replace either of those two, whereas Goretzka could be a good rotation option who’d probably also be more willing to accept not being first choice at this stage of his career.
The England international has been a key player for Liverpool for a number of years now, proving himself to be a solid and reliable member of the Reds’ squad, even if he’s not always been a regular starter.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has previously praised Jones as being “outstanding” and a “complete” player, as per BBC Sport, so he’d presumably like to keep him around if possible.
Could Curtis Jones seal a transfer away from Liverpool?
Jones has 18 months left on his current Liverpool contract, so it could be that it would make sense for them to cash in on him this summer.
Curtis Jones looks on from the Liverpool bench (Photo by Kate McShane/Getty Images)
The 25-year-old might also feel it’s time for a new challenge, and that he could get more regular minutes at a club like Newcastle.
The Magpies could be facing some doubt over a midfielder of their own, with the Athletic reporting on Sandro Tonali being offered to Arsenal earlier this week.
If that saga drags on into the summer then NUFC will surely be on the lookout for a new midfielder, and Jones could be a decent option.
Curtis Jones transfer: How important is he to Liverpool?
Liverpool could end this speculation very easily by giving Jones a new contract, but the fact that they haven’t done so already could suggest they’ve already made up their minds about his future.
Even if keeping Jones around for squad depth could make sense for the Reds, there might also be some key decision-makers at the club who want to make changes in midfield.
Jones is a hard-working player with some qualities, but he’s probably not outstanding enough in any particular area for a top club with Liverpool’s ambitions.
Newcastle might be a better fit for Jones, though of course LFC could live to regret letting him strengthen a rival.
The agent of Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has seemingly opened the door for a potential transfer to Arsenal in the summer.
As was recently reported by the Athletic, it seems Tonali was offered to Arsenal on Deadline Day, though there was never likely to be enough time to get such a major deal done on that occasion.
Still, it seems the Italy international could still be on his way out of Newcastle in the summer, with latest updates sure to have the Gunners on alert.
Tonali’s agent Giuseppe Riso has spoken out on the situation and suggested further talks over his client’s potential exit will take place soon.
Sandro Tonali agent opens the door to potential Arsenal transfer
Although Riso did not mention Arsenal specifically, his words could be significant given that he supposedly contacted the north London giants about this deal.
“Newcastle are having a hard time letting go of Sandro, and he wants to lead the club to the Champions League,” Riso told Tuttosport, as quoted and translated by the Daily Mirror.
Sandro Tonali waves to the Newcastle fans (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
“We’ll evaluate and decide what to do in the summer. These transfer discussions will take place later. We’ll see how the season ends and then we’ll decide what to do.
“There’s no preference at the moment. It’s still early. What we’re saying today won’t apply tomorrow. Newcastle couldn’t let him go now, and there’s no point in moving, especially since Sandro is very attached to the club.”
Do Arsenal need Sandro Tonali?
Interestingly, despite the surprise talk about Tonali and Arsenal towards the end of the January transfer window, it’s not yet been confirmed if Mikel Arteta’s side are actually interested.
AFC already have Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi as their first choice in that area of midfield, with Christian Norgaard as backup.
It’s hard to see Tonali starting over Rice or Zubimendi that often, while he also surely wouldn’t settle for a backup role like Norgaard has had.
Arteta would obviously love to have more depth if possible, but Tonali might be better off moving somewhere where he’d be a guaranteed starter, as there are surely plenty of other top clubs who could give him that kind of key role.
Chelsea are reportedly reviving their interest in a potential transfer swoop for Porto striker Samu Aghehowa ahead of the summer.
The west London giants have been admirers of Aghehowa for some time, and it seems they remain keen on the Spain international.
That’s according to a report from TEAMtalk, which also mentions interest from Tottenham in what could be an intriguing battle between two major rivals.
Aghehowa has an impressive record of 47 goals in 76 games for Porto, and those numbers certainly suggest he could be an upgrade on the struggling Liam Delap.
Samu Aghehowa to replace Liam Delap at Chelsea?
Samu Aghehowa celebrates a goal for Porto (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Chelsea signed Delap from Ipswich Town in the summer, but the 22-year-old has struggled with the step up to playing for such a big club.
Delap scored an impressive 12 Premier League goals for a struggling Ipswich side last season, but he has just one in his first 15 league appearances for the Blues.
Speaking on talkSPORT this week, pundit Gabriel Agbonlahor singled Delap out for criticism and suggested the transfer was a mistake.
“I said when he joined Chelsea that I thought he should have gone to a team like Everton,” Agbonlahor said. “Develop there for a couple of years and then make the big move to top-six side. I think the jump from Ipswich to Chelsea was too much.
“When I look at him as a striker, I like him – he can hold up the ball well, he’s a good finisher, but he just doesn’t look sharp enough for the top level of the Premier League.”
Aghehowa looks like he could be a good signing for Chelsea, but would the 21-year-old do well to join them?
Even if CFC could be a good fit due to their need for a striker and their willingness to build around talented young players, it would also be fair to say that Stamford Bridge hasn’t looked like the most settled environment in recent years.
With so many players and managers coming and going under this ownership, Aghehowa might not find it that easy to settle and find his best form, so perhaps a club like Tottenham would be a safer option.
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) — The Angelo State Rambelles played their season home openers on Friday, Feb 6.
Day one of Angelo State’s annual George & Ola McCorkle Challenge was a tale of two halves. The Rambelles’ opening game versus Missouri Western was a scoreless tie through six full innings, until the top of the seventh inning when the Griffons’ Ashlyn Finarty cranked a go-ahead two-run home run to centerfield, proving to be the game winning run(s) scored.
In game two, the Rambelles flipped the script. Angelo State scored six runs in the bottom of the fourth inning en route to an early 8-1 lead. ASU added an additional run in the bottom of the sixth inning, which proved to be the game’s final play. Greysen Collins’ RBI single to left field drove in another run to increase the Rambelles’ lead to eight, thus ending the game via run rule.
The Rambelles begin day two of the George & Ola McCorkle Challenge on Saturday, Feb 7. Angelo State faces Missouri Western first at 1:15 p.m. CST, followed by Ouachita Baptist at 3:30 p.m. CST.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Telegram for Android is getting a major upgrade this February, bringing an iOS-style UI (user interface) and unlocking access to the Stories feature for everyone.
On February 6, Telegram pushed a new update for Android users, which adopts UI changes from its iOS version. Upon checking the user interface changes, I found a working Stories menu, and further inspection revealed that Stories is now open.
iOS-style UI
Telegram for Android has reduced the height of the Header. The app label has been retained, accompanied by Stories. The hamburger menu has been repositioned from the left to the right side for easier access.
The “Search chats” has become a full bar, replacing the legacy icon. If you use the folders feature, you may notice another change with terms aligned inside pills. The bottom side has also added a navigation bar with four items:
Chats
Contacts
Settings
Profile
Telegram has also tweaked the design of Settings and simplified various options. It’s now even easier to find tools and options. The settings page also features a search icon, which will help you easily find the required settings.
Well, posting stories is already available on the Beta channel and specific accounts.
Image – SammyFans
Telegram Stories
Wide arrival of Telegram Stories is the big news of the day. The feature was previously limited to premium subscribers. Reports suggest Stories have become available to some users for a limited time, but Telegram later pulled the feature.
With the latest UI, Telegram is allowing users to post stories. You can access it from the Chats screen, which lets you capture photos, videos or select one from the Gallery.
Selecting a picture or video takes you to the next section, which offers cool customization options like drawing, stickers, link, location, weather, audio and so on.
Image – SammyFans
Once done, you are headed to the final phase of posting a Story on Telegram. If you own channels, you can switch to the personal account. Privacy limits include Everyone, My Contacts, Close Friends, and Selected Users.
Like Instagram archives, Telegram lets you create an automatic album linked to your account. Stories posted will be saved in a dedicated album, which will remain accessible even after the Story expires after the timeline.
Note: For now, non-premium account users can post 1 story in a day.
Alex Ferreira set a record as the first halfpipe skier to have a perfect season. That means he’s ready to go and one to watch in the upcoming Winter Olympic Games in Milan.
These are the third Olympics for the 31-year-old. He won silver in 2018 in PyeongChang and a bronze in 2022 in Beijing.
Ferreira is one of the favorites for gold, especially after winning all seven events he competed in during the 2023-2024 season.
Ferreira signature trick is the right side double-cork 1620 lead tail grab, which he practices a lot.
“Five days a week on the trampoline and the roller blades. Jumping off a ramp into a foam pit. Sauna with visualization. And affirmation in the hot tub. Telling myself I do perfect right side double-cork 1620 lead tails,” Ferreira said.
He added that any given week, he sees or does a trick at least 100 times.
Irwin posted a 7th-place finish in the 15km individual race at the 2022 Winter Olympic Games in Beijing, the best-ever Olympic finish by any American in the event.
Four years later, Deedra Irwin returns to the same stage as a known commodity in the Nordic skiing world, with plenty of familiar experiences and faces.
Familial Love
When Irwin arrived in Beijing, she was just excited to make the team, and she even said she didn’t have many expectations, but now she’s trying to remember those feelings to help cope with the high emotions.
(AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)
Irwin says it’s a little heavier this go-around in her second Olympics, because, unlike in 2022, there will be some familiar faces in the crowd—which is what she’s most excited about.
“I’m most looking forward to my family getting to watch me at these Olympics,” Irwin said. “They weren’t able to come to Beijing, so I’m super excited. I’ve been getting a lot of pictures of them boarding the plane today and they’re really excited to come over.”
She says when she was a really young runner in Pulaski, her tough-love mother gave her some of the best advice she’s ever gotten—hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard. Her dad always gave her the ‘do your best, give it 100%.’
Irwin said the balance of both pieces of advice sticks with her, with a ‘tough love’ on one shoulder and the ‘softy’ side on the other.
Another big part of her support group is her fiancé, whom she met during the 2022 Olympics in Beijing, and he understands the training and the sacrifice, being an Alpine snowboarder. That story is almost too perfect.
“He’s been my rock,” Irwin said. “Our eyes locked at the opening ceremonies and it was love at first sight.”
Pulaski & Packers support
Irwin is a Pulaski High School alum, and before the Games, her alma mater gave her quite the remote send-off, with an assembly of musical performances from the band and orchestra, surrounding a larger-than-life cutout of her.
Irwin said she hasn’t lived in Pulaski for a while, but that it’s been cool seeing all of the support from her hometown.
“They’ve been huge supporters,” Irwin said. “I always have people from the area messaging me every year to wish me good luck. It’s been really cool to see the response in Pulaski, and the entire community following my entire journey.”
Irwin cited her Packers fandom and just growing up near Titletown as helping her not just see her dreams as a big picture but making them come true, saying that growing up near a historic and successful franchise allows people to dream big.
“You get to grow up in that presence of excellence,” Irwin said. “All of the Lombardi stuff we learned growing up, when they asked us to write about leadership, you pretty much chose a Packers coach and wrote about them in high school.”
The Packers noticed Irwin when she made her Olympic debut, as then-Team President/CEO Mark Murphy wrote her a personal letter, and the team sent her a customized Packers jersey. The season following her Olympic debut, she was invited to Lambeau Field by the organization.
“It’s been a really cool experience to be able to be seen as one of the great athletes coming out of the area,” Irwin said. “Anytime they send me a message, I’m super grateful that they’re watching out for local athletes and cheering us on.”
Camaraderie with her USA teammates
Irwin has a plethora of supporters, but one of her closest confidants has been Joanne Reid, her fellow teammate, whom she credited with getting her into the sport.
“Joanne was with me the whole way. She’s the one who got me into the sport and mentored me through the first four years,” Irwin said.
(AP Photo/Matthias Schrader, File)
Irwin said the biathletes are not actually in the Olympic Village; they have their own little house, and she’s living with Joanne, too, who she’s traveled with for the past eight years.
“I think I’ve spent more Christmases with her than I have with my own family in the past eight years,” Irwin said. “It’s like having your best friend on the road.”
The camaraderie doesn’t just exist between Irwin and her close friend Joanne; it’s extended to some of the newer faces around the Biathlon house.
“We have a couple of teammates, I swear they’re like 10 years younger than me, I don’t even know what ‘Gen’ they are anymore, but they’re bringing in all this young energy,” Irwin said. “It’s been fun to see their chaotic energy running around the house.
Representing the Stars & Stripes with Sports & Service
“They do all of the things you’re supposed to do at basic training, they strip you down of your personality, make you work as a team,” Irwin said. “You really have to become more than just yourself, you become part of a bigger & broader plan. It was really eye-opening for me.”
Irwin says it taught her resilience and perseverance, jokingly referring to the 4 a.m. wake up yells, which wasn’t easy, but it was important.
(AP Photo/Frank Augstein)
“I think I learned a lot about how to work as a team and succeed under pressure,” Irwin said. “I definitely brought that back to my athletic career.”
Joining the Vermont Army National Guard also gave Irwin a chance to be in the sport for longer, because she’s in the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program, which allows her to represent her nation as an athlete and a soldier, which she takes great pride in.
“I’ve learned to appreciate being able to be somebody who represents the country on so many different levels as an Olympian, an athlete and as a soldier,” Irwin said. “I’m proud to represent my country and I’m proud to serve. Wearing the American flag is an incredible honor.”
The fundamentals of the Biathlon
Looking at the event she’s in, it’s grueling. She says one of the biggest challenges is the demanding fitness level.
“Luckily, I grew up running in Pulaski, so I had a lot of fitness when I learned how to Nordic Ski, but it took 15 years or so of Nordic ski experience to get as fast as I am today,” Irwin said. “We train about 600-750 hours a year just to cover our base volume for fitness.”
Those several hundred hours of fitness training don’t even cover the technique, because the biathlon isn’t just skiing, it’s shooting, which she didn’t start until she was 25 years old. She says the shooting is actually a little more of a level-playing field, but it’s still nothing to scoff at.
“I didn’t start shooting until I was 25 years old, and it took me 3-4 years to get proficient, and it’s taken me additional time to get consistently proficient,” Irwin said.
(AP Photo/Matthias Schrader)
To her, neither shooting nor skiing is particularly ‘easier,’ but it’s about putting together those ‘perfect’ days by bringing both together, which is when the great results show.
Irwin says the sport’s taught her a lot about herself and life in general, specifically talking about the idea of perfection.
“There’s a certain personality of people who can do biathlon because it’s very hard to shoot 100% all of the time,” Irwin said. “I think athletes are always striving for a 100% perfect performance, and you just don’t get that in biathlon.”
Simply put—it’s really hard to be perfect.
“Even when you’re perfect, you can still find something or somewhere you could have found another second,” Irwin said. “Perfection doesn’t win races; you just have to perform your best. There’s a failure-to-success mindset with the biathlon.”
Expectations & Enthusiasm
Irwin says she’s quite familiar with the venue in Italy, because they come here often for World Cup competitions; however, it’s a little different seeing the Olympic Village, even though they’re staying elsewhere, so she and her teammates took a little trip over.
“We got to etch my face into a Coca-Cola can, check out the golden Corona bottles that we’re getting,” Irwin said.
Irwin’s 7th-place finish in 2022 is the best by any American ever in the Biathlon at the Olympics, and in her second go-around, she’s ready for the opportunity, citing her higher confidence and skill since that Olympic debut.
(AP Photo/Frank Augstein)
“This time, I definitely have more skill and confidence going into the races, and I would love to bring home a medal for my team,” Irwin said. “I think it’s going to be a really exciting Olympics for our team.”
Of course, Irwin wants to medal, as does every athlete at the Olympics, but she says she’s confident that even if she doesn’t, one of her American teammates will.
“If I’m not the one [on our tea] to medal, I’m sure somebody else will,” Irwin said. “I think we’re going to break records this time. I’ll be super pumped if one of my teammates does.”
Irwin says that on both the men’s and women’s side, they’re all working hard together to be a nation to fear in the biathlon, an event historically dominated by Norway, the former Soviet Union and Germany.
“We’ve always been seen as the underdog against some of the European nations,” Irwin said. “I think we’re all really pushing to show everybody that we hold a place among the top teams here.”
A Message to Pulaski & northeast Wisconsin
When it comes to the support from home, Irwin expressed heavy gratitude.
“Thanks for supporting me on this journey,” Irwin said. “I can hear them cheering from Wisconsin and even from the Chicago area.”
Irwin joked as well, of course, being a Packers fan, that she’ll let the Bears fans adopt her, because she loves the rivalry.
Deedra Irwin’s first event of the Olympics is the biathlon mixed relay 4x6km on Sunday, February 8. Her second is the women’s 15km individual on Wednesday, February 11.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
One of the most emotional stories coming into the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan centers around men’s figure skater Max Naumov.
There’s no doubt he is a fantastic skater, but he nearly stepped away from the sport last year.
“I didn’t know that I was if I was ever going to skate again, period, let alone competing,” Naumov recently said.
It’s because Naumov lost both of his parents in a plane crash on January 29, 2025. The former Russian skating Olympians were among the members of the Skating Club of Boston on a flight that collided with a military helicopter in Washington, DC. Sixty-seven people died. The family was going to fly back from the competition together, but Naumov said his parents and several others decided to take an earlier flight.
At the National Championships, where Naumov earned the third spot on Team USA, he held tightly to a picture of his parents.
“My dad would always be by the boards, by the side, you know, cheering me on, following me and in that kiss and cry moment, we always had some of our most intimate, you know, bonding family moments. So I really wanted to feel their presence in in the kiss and cry,” Naumov said.
As the emotions poured out of him, the crowd and his fellow skaters were there to help pull him through.
“I almost don’t even remember hearing my scores, because I was so just in the zone of competition,” Naumov reflected.
Naumov has a large extended family in the Boston skating world.
Naumov took over the Youth Academy at the club, a program founded by his late parents.
Now the memory of his parents is headed to Milan with their son, a dream fulfilled despite tragedy.
“I will definitely, definitely be taking some photos with me. I want them to be there as well, to share that experience with me and to really feel their presence in that moment, in the kiss and cry, or even just in my in my room, you know, placing them there and kind of just giving them a glance in the mornings and and telling them that, you know, we’re here,” Naumov said.
He’ll have them in his heart as he laces up his skates for the world’s biggest stage.
Liverpool remains interested in signing the Newcastle United defender Sven Botman.
They are plotting a move for the 26-year-old Netherlands international at the end of the season, and it remains to be seen whether Newcastle is prepared to sanction his departure.
Liverpool have secured an agreement to sign Jeremy Jacquet recently. However, they are looking to add another defender to the squad. Ibrahima Konate will leave the club on a free transfer in the summer, and Virgil van Dijk is entering the twilight stages of his career, so he will need to be replaced in the future.
Sven Botman of Newcastle United (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Botman has done well for Newcastle in the Premier League, and there is no doubt that he is good enough for Liverpool as well. However, he sustained multiple injuries during his time in England. Liverpool will not want to sign an injury-prone player. They need someone with excellent availability, and it remains to be seen whether they are prepared to take a gamble on the Newcastle star.
The opportunity to join Liverpool will be exciting for the Netherlands international. It would be a step up for him, and he would get to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world. He would also get to join a team where he might be able to push for trophies.
However, Newcastle are already lacking in defence, and selling one of their best players would be a huge blow. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
Carolina Panthers rookie Tetairoa McMillan is facing backlash after a video of him using a racial slur during a livestream went viral. Some users, however, defended McMillan's statements, including former NFL player Dez Bryant, who declared McMillan meant "no harm."
Video Shows Carolina Panthers Rookie Tetairoa McMillan Reciting A Racial Slur
According to ESPN, McMillan appeared at a livestreamed video game event on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, where he recited a racial slur. "N—a," he said. "N—a."
The moment clearly stunned those around him, who stared at each other with shocked expressions before quietly moving on.
A day later, McMillian addressed the situation in an Instagram post, apologizing for his actions. "Yesterday, while on live stream, I used a term I should not have," he wrote. "There’s no excuse for what I said — I sincerely apologize for speaking thoughtlessly and will do better."
Tetairoa McMillan Named Offensive Rookie Of The Year Hours After Scandal
McMillan received 41 of the 50 first-place votes to secure the award, beating New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough, New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart, and New England Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson.
McMillian was selected eighth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft and recorded 70 receptions on 122 targets for 1,014 yards and seven touchdowns, according to his ESPN player profile.
Tetairoa McMillan Draws Mixed Reaction Over Racial Slur Statement
Online, social media users reacted to McMillan's language, with some expressing genuine disappointment over the athlete's choice of words. Other users blasted the Arizona alum for allegedly only apologizing because he was caught.
Another claimed McMillan likely uses the derogatory slur regularly, writing, "You can tell he uses the word daily. Just keep your apology."
Another user defended McMillan, saying the NFL player had no ill intent. "Unpopular opinion, this man clearly didn’t say it in a derogatory way," they wrote.
Former NFL player Dez Bryant echoed that sentiment, sharing, "Bruh. The way he said... no harm no foul.. he been around. Folks need to chill because it's really not that f-cking serious."
Problematic Behavior Rocked The NFL This Year
Mega
McMillan wasn't the only NFL player forced to issue a public apology after being shamed for indefensible behavior.
According to The Blast, Los Angeles Rams player Puka Nacua apologized on Instagram after appearing on a livestream with streamer Adin Ross and making a gesture many have deemed antisemitic.
"When I appeared the other day on a social media livestream, it was suggested to me to perform a specific movement as part of my next touchdown celebration," he said. "At the time, I had no idea this act was antisemitic in nature and perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jewish people."
A month prior, Cincinnati Bengals player Ja'Marr Chase came under fire after spitting at Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey during a heated moment on the field.
He, too, apologized online, saying, "Please know I am speaking from my heart when I say I take full responsibility for my actions during last Sunday's game at Pittsburgh. What I did was wrong. The circumstances don't matter. My passion for the game is no excuse. There's no place in our sport—or in life—for that level of disrespect."
Super Bowl Sunday Is Upon Us
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All eyes are on the NFL as the league's upcoming Super Bowl contest between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks draws near. The Big Game will be held at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on February 8, and is expected to be a stellar showdown between two powerhouse teams.
Bad Bunny will headline the Super Bowl Halftime Show, according to PEOPLE. "What I'm feeling goes beyond myself," the popular artist said in 2025. "It's for those who came before me and ran countless yards so I could come in and score a touchdown… this is for my people, my culture, and our history. Ve y dile a tu abuela, que seremos el HALFTIME SHOW DEL SUPER BOWL."
The Super Bowl will also have performances from Green Day, Charlie Puth, Brandi Carlile, and Coco Jones.
West Ham United crashed to a 2-0 defeat against Chelsea in the Premier League and manager Nuno Espirito Santo has now admitted that the approach did not work out.
West Ham employed a high-pressing style of football against Chelsea and did reasonably well until the hour mark. However, fatigue crept in during the second half, and West Ham eventually lost their spark.
Nuno Espirito Santo needs a change of approach
The 4-4-2 system deployed by Espirito Santo demands high pressing from the two strikers, but West Ham simply do not have the depth in that area of the pitch to change things around and maintain the same level of pressure throughout the 90 minutes.
Nuno has now admitted that the system needs to change, and it will be interesting to see whether he can get the best out of his team while staying within the resources available to him. They should have signed more players if they wanted to play a high-pressing style.
Nuno said (h/t Claret&Hugh): “We spent a lot of energy pressing high in the game, and playing so well offensively, and after about 55–60 minutes, we felt that energy getting away. We tried to rebalance the team with an extra body and it didn’t work out, so the challenge is to keep the standards throughout the whole match.”
There is no doubt that they have the players to do much better than they have this season. The fan will certainly expect them to step up their performances and bounce back strongly.
Illan Meslier has been linked with a move away from Leeds United in recent months.
The French goalkeeper has fallen down the pecking order at the English club, and he needs to leave in order to play more often. Sitting on the bench at Leeds United will not benefit him.
Illan Meslier linked with a move to Turkey
He has been linked with Turkish club Besiktas. The Turkish outfit is hoping to sign the player before the winter transfer window closes, but the player is reluctant to move to Turkey (h/t Leeds Live). The Turkish transfer window closes today, and it remains to be seen whether they can finalise a last-gasp move for the Leeds United goalkeeper.
Meslier has previously shown his quality with Leeds, but he has not been able to hold down a regular starting spot this season. He is nearing the end of his contract at the Premier League club. He will be a free agent in the summer, and it seems that he will wait out the duration of his contract and leave for nothing.
Illan Meslier of Leeds United FC (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Leeds United have Lucas Perri and Karl Darlow ahead of him in the pecking order. The French goalkeeper is unlikely to get too many opportunities until the end of the season. It remains to be seen whether he can secure a suitable move at the end of the season and get his career back on track. He is at the peak of his career and needs to play regularly. Joining the right team could bring out the best in him once again.
Meanwhile, Leeds are fighting for survival in the Premier League, and it will be interesting to see if they can continue in the top flight beyond this season.
Wolves attacker Jhon Arias is now closing in on a move away from the club this month.
According to a report from Globo Esporte, the player has signed a pre-contract agreement with Palmeiras, and the two clubs are now preparing the final paperwork ahead of the move.
The 28-year-old Colombian attacker is now set to complete a €25 million move to the Brazilian club next week.
Jhon Arias needs a move
Arias has played 23 Premier League matches for Wolves this season, and he has scored just once. His form has been erratic, and it will be interesting to see if he can recapture his peak form with the Brazilian club. There is no doubt that he is a quality player and versatile enough to play in multiple roles. He can play as a centre forward or a wide player. He could be a very useful addition to Palmeiras if he regains his confidence.
Meanwhile, Wolves have also sanctioned the departure of Jorgen Strand Larsen.
Jhon Arias of Wolverhampton Wanderers (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
They are at the bottom of the league table, and they are fighting to survive. Losing these players will only further weaken them. It will be interesting to see if they can miraculously escape relegation this season. As things stand, they are the favourites to go down.
Arsenal are interested in signing the Bournemouth attacker Eli Junior Kroupi.
The 19-year-old attacker joined the Cherries at the start of the season, and he has been excellent for them. He has eight goals in the Premier League so far, and he scored against Arsenal earlier this season. The Gunners are impressed by his performances and hope to sign him, according to a report from MediaFoot.
Bournemouth paid €13 million to sign the player, and they are likely to demand a substantial fee for him if Arsenal come calling in the summer. It is no secret that they need more quality in the attack. They spent a lot of money on Viktor Gyokeres during the summer transfer window, but the Swedish International has not been prolific enough.
Eli Junior Kroupi of AFC Bournemouth is congratulated by teammate Antoine Semenyo (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Arsenal need a more reliable attacker leading the line for them, and the 19-year-old could be ideal. He has the potential to develop into a top-class player. He has adapted to Premier League football seamlessly, and he will only improve with coaching and experience. Playing for one of the biggest teams in the country will only help him improve further.
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal follow up on their interest with an official proposal to complete the deal. They will face competition from the French outfit PSG. Both clubs have the financials to pay a premium, and it will be interesting to see where the 19-year-old attacker ends up.
He should look to join a club where he can play a prominent role. He needs regular high-level gametime to fulfil his tremendous potential.
Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season.
According to a report from Fichajes, Arsenal wanted to sign the player during the January window, but the move did not materialise. The player is likely to be on the radar of top clubs in the summer as well. Real Madrid are reportedly monitoring his situation, and they could look to make a move for the Italian.
Sandro Tonali asking price revealed
The midfielder is reportedly valued at €90 million, and it will be interesting to see whether Real Madrid decides to sign him. They could use a reliable defensive midfielder, and the Italian would be an excellent addition. He has shown his quality in the Premier League and can thrive in La Liga as well.
Both Arsenal and Real Madrid could be exciting destinations for the player. He has won the English League Cup with Newcastle, but he will now want to win major trophies. Newcastle are not quite at the level required to win league titles or the UEFA Champions League. Real Madrid or Arsenal could provide him with that platform.
Sandro Tonali warming up for Newcastle United (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
A report from The Times has also confirmed that the player is looking to move on in the summer. His agent has indicated that a summer move is on the cards.
The 25-year-old is an indispensable asset for Newcastle, and his departure would be a huge blow for them. However, they cannot hope to keep top players at the club if they are unable to compete regularly for major trophies. They will have to reluctantly let the player move on.
€90 million is a lot of money, and they should be able to find a quality replacement.
Chelsea are interested in signing the Nottingham Forest defender Murillo, and they will face competition from Manchester United.
According to a report from Fichajes, both clubs are keen on the 23-year-old Brazilian defender, and it will be interesting to see where he ends up. The South American has shown his quality with Nottingham Forest, and he is certainly ready for the next step.
Murillo could fancy a big move
The opportunity to play for Chelsea or Manchester United will be exciting for him. They are among the biggest clubs in the country, and they could provide him with a platform to compete in Europe and fight for trophies.
It will be interesting to see if Nottingham Forest is willing to sanction his departure at the end of the season. They have had a disappointing season so far, and it will be difficult to convince top players to continue. Players like Murillo will want to compete at the highest level, and it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.
Murillo of Nottingham Forest (Photo by Jack Thomas/Getty Images)
Chelsea have looked quite vulnerable defensively, and they need to improve in that area of the pitch. Murillo would be an excellent acquisition for them, and he could prove to be an upgrade on players like Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile.
As for Manchester United, they need a quality long-term replacement for Harry Maguire, and the Brazilian certainly fits the profile. He is well settled in English football, and he could make an immediate impact at Chelsea or Manchester United. It remains to be seen where he ends up eventually.
Real Madrid continues to be linked with Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea.
They are looking to improve in the middle of the park, and they have identified the 25-year-old South American as the ideal target.
Fernandez has established himself as a key player for Chelsea, and he’s one of the best central midfielders in the Premier League. There is no doubt that he would be a quality acquisition for Real Madrid. However, convincing Chelsea to sell the player will not be easy.
Real Madrid plan to sign Enzo Fernandez
Real Madrid is now looking to sweeten the deal for Chelsea by including Eduardo Camavinga in a move for the Argentine. According to a report from Fichajes, Fernandez is valued at €120 million. Real Madrid are hoping to sign him for an offer of €60 million, along with Camavinga.
It will be interesting to see if Chelsea is willing to accept a player plus cash deal for their star midfielder. They will need to replace Fernandez properly, and the French International could be an interesting acquisition for them. There is no doubt that he is a promising player with a bright future and could be an asset to Chelsea.
Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez in action against Fulham (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
The 23-year-old is versatile enough to slot into multiple roles. Camavinga can play as a central midfielder, defensive midfielder, fullback, or central defender.
It remains to be seen whether the two clubs can agree on a deal in the coming months. Chelsea would also need to agree terms with the French midfielder. Player plus cash deals can be quite complicated, and it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.
Manchester United are interested in the Aston Villa playmaker Morgan Rogers.
The 23-year-old has been outstanding for Aston Villa, and Manchester United believe that he could revitalise their attacking unit. Rogers will look to create opportunities for his teammates and find the back of the net as well.
Rogers has registered 16 goal contributions already this season. He’s a young player with a lot of potential, and he’s likely to cost a lot of money. According to a report from Fichajes, any deal could be worth around €100 million. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United is prepared to break the Bank for him. They need an elite creator like him.
Bruno Fernandes has been linked with a move away from the club, and they will need to replace the Portuguese international properly. The Aston Villa star could be the ideal acquisition for them.
Morgan Rogers celebrates a goal for Aston Villa (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
The opportunity to join Manchester United will be exciting for the young playmaker. It would be a step up in his career, and he would get to play for one of the world’s best clubs. He will hope to fight for major trophies with them in future.
Manchester United have the financial resources to pay the asking price, and it remains to be seen what they decide in the coming months. Aston Villa will not want to lose a player of his calibre, but they could be under pressure to sell if a suitable offer is presented.
Rogers has been linked to multiple clubs in recent weeks, and Manchester United should move quickly to complete the deal. There is likely to be intense competition for his signature in the summer.
Real Madrid are reportedly interested in signing the Manchester United defender Leny Yoro
The defender has been linked with Real Madrid in the past, and they have been monitoring his progress since 2024. Manchester United signed the player for €62 million and are prepared to sanction his departure for €70 million at the end of this season, according to Fichajes.
Real Madrid keen on Leny Yoro
It will be interesting to see whether Real Madrid renew their interest in the player and sign him in the summer. It is no secret that they need more quality in the defensive unit. The Frenchman has shown he is a top talent with a bright future, and he can succeed in La Liga as well. He will look to establish himself as a key player for the Spanish outfit if the deal goes through.
Real Madrid have the financial muscle to pay €70 million for him, and it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds. Manchester United are quite vulnerable at the back as well, and losing the defender would be a blow for them.
Leny Yoro of Man United (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
The 20-year-old is quite young, and he will only improve with coaching and experience. He could develop into a world-class defender with the right guidance. Manchester United could regret letting him leave. Yoro has been labelled as a “special talent” in the past.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid should do everything in their power to sign the talented young defender. He could justify the investment in future and prove to be a long-term asset for them. They need to tighten up at the back if they are serious about winning major trophies again.
Meanwhile, Yoro might fancy a move to Real Madrid as well. They are widely regarded as the biggest club in the world, and the opportunity to play for them can be hard to turn down.
AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit has been the name on everyone’s lips over the last few months.
The 20-year-old Dutch midfielder has attracted the attention of top clubs with his performances, and there is likely to be an intense fight for his signature in the summer.
Arsenal and Liverpool lead Kees Smit race
According to a report from Fichajes, Arsenal and Liverpool have now taken the lead in the race to sign the 20-year-old playmaker. The two Premier League clubs are competing with Real Madrid, and they have already accelerated negotiations to sign the player in the summer.
However, Real Madrid are yet to make their move. They are analysing whether they should enter a bidding war for the talented young midfielder. The report claims that the player could cost as much as €75 million. The 20-year-old has shown that he can control games from the middle of the park, and he could be an asset for all three clubs.
Kees Smit warming up for AZ Alkmaar (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Liverpool need a midfield controller like him, and they are hoping that. Arne Slot can use his connections at the Dutch club to help them complete the deal.
Arsenal could use an elite talent like him as well. The 20-year-old could complement the likes of Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice in the midfield three. His arrival would allow Arsenal to control games better.
The asking price is quite high for a player who is still largely unproven at the highest level. It will be interesting to see if the Premier League clubs are willing to pay that kind of money for him.
There is no doubt that he is an elite talent who could justify the investment in future, but spending €75 million on him now might be a gamble.
The Premier League’s 2025-29 deal was worth £6.7 billion. Have the vast sums paid to every top-flight team made the league more competitive, and how have they spent so far?
Summer 2025 spending
There wasn’t a clear pattern of mid-table clubs spending more, relative to the traditional bigger sides.
Fulham spent €44.5 million, a relative pittance in Premier League money. Kevin from Shakhtar was their biggest buy for €40m.
Crystal Palace won the FA Cup and finished one place behind Fulham in 12th. They spent €55.3m, with most of that going on Yeremy Pino.
Bournemouth did spend €138.1m, with Bafode Diakite their most expensive signing at €35m. Their €15m fee for Veljko Milosavljevic, a teenage centre back bought with future seasons in mind, highlighted how much the Premier League has grown. (It was only six seasons ago that Manchester United, who were aiming for a title, signed Dan James for a similar fee to compete for a position in the starting eleven. That same season, Newcastle signed Allan Saint-Maximin for a similar amount.)
These new players are playing to bigger audiences than ever, in large part because the UK is showing even more games on TV. Sky Sports and TNT Sports share an average seven games per weekend, with a typical gameweek having just three traditional 3pm kickoffs. These Saturday 3pm games are the only ones not allowed to be shown on domestic TV, with the UK the last country in Europe still applying the “3pm blackout”.
This law does not apply to fans abroad in countries like the United States, where football fans regularly watch 3pm kickoffs on channels like NBC. If they travel to the UK, though, they have to use a tool likeExpressVPN to access their subscriptions.
The Premier League and EFL are reportedly in talks to end the3pm blackout. The contracts do not expire until 2029 so any changes would likely take place from the 2029-30 season. The currentPremier League rights is clouded in uncertainty as Netflix attempts to buy Warner Bros. Pictures, Television, and Games, along with DC Studios, HBO, and TNT Sports. The latter being part of Warner Bros Discovery’s umbrella of companies means that if the Netflix sale were to go through, Premier League fans could be watching games on Netflix.
Top six
Of the bigger clubs, Liverpool were the summer’s biggest spenders. €482.9m went on stars including Alexander Isak (€145m), Florian Wirtz (€125m), and Hugo Ekitike (€95m). They spent €46.9m on Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, which meant the latter club’s net spend wasn’t quite as dramatic as it would have been (“only” €100.31m).
Chelsea had a typically active window, spending €339.15m and bringing in €332.25m. Joao Pedro, yet another purchase from Brighton and Hove Albion, was their biggest buy at €63.7m.
Arsenal finished second last season and were the summer’s next biggest spenders, with Martin Zubimendi (€70m), Eberechi Eze (€69.3m), Viktor Gyokeres (€66.9m), Noni Madueke (€56m), Christhian Mosquera (€15m), and Christian Norgaard (€11.6m) all arriving in the same window.
Aston Villa finished 6th last season but made a summer profit of €24.65m, with their only significant signing being Evan Guessand from Nice (€30m). They sold Jacob Ramsey to Newcastle for €45m.
Manchester United, a traditional “big six” team, finished 15th last season and attempted to make amends with a €250.7m outlay. It wasn’t enough for Ruben Amorim to keep his job but interim coach Michael Carrick may benefit from having Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbuemo, and Matheus Cunha to choose from, each costing over €70m.
Is the Premier League more competitive?
Spending has not always correlated with results in the Premier League, and this season is similar. Bournemouth started well but then dramatically dropped off and have looked relegation candidates for much of the season. Arsenal may be happiest with how their new signings have paid off: Zubimendi has made a strong midfield even better, Eze has given them more options and still has room to grow at 27 years old, and while Gyokeres (also 27) hasn’t had the smoothest of starts, Mikel Arteta has repeatedly said the striker will find his feet.
Despite Amorim’s sacking, United look like they could climb back to the top five and potentially Champions League qualification this season. While it wouldn’t be quite as romantic as Fulham or Bournemouth competing with Real Madrid and co, it would suggest that the TV money helps teams stay competitive even after a huge underperformance.
Newcastle United are reportedly planning for a busy summer transfer window, with sporting director Ross Wilson already working on key positions.
A report from iNews states that the Magpies are preparing some serious investment in their squad, with Eddie Howe set to get significant backing.
Sources are quoted in their report as saying there are already “constant meetings” taking place, and that “we’ve got clear plans on what we’d like to do”.
Which positions do Newcastle want to strengthen in the summer transfer window?
According to the report, Newcastle are looking for a new goalkeeper, a new centre-back, a left-back, a midfielder, and possible support for their strikers up front.
There are not yet that many specific names doing the rounds, though the report does note someone NUFC had their eye on for that midfield position.
Newcastle players in training (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
The player in question is now unavailable, however.
Patrick Zabi was a target for Newcastle while he was at Reims, but he has instead recently ended up joining Paris FC.
Newcastle need significant spending after last summer’s nightmare
Newcastle have really suffered this season, with Howe’s side down in 11th place in the Premier League table.
It seems plainly obvious that the club weren’t prepared for the departure of Alexander Isak, but they must now use that money from his sale to fund new signings in a number of areas.
It’s also crucial that Newcastle don’t lose other star names, with worrying reports emerging this week that Arsenal are targeting Sandro Tonali.
Other big names like Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall have been the subject of speculation, so it could end up being another long window for the north east club.
The 23-year-old hasn’t played much since joining Man City in the summer, and one imagines his situation might attract a lot of interest if it doesn’t change soon.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke is keen to strengthen in goal, and it seems Trafford is a name on the club’s radar, according to TEAMtalk.
The report also names Tottenham and Aston Villa as admirers of the England Under-21 international, so this might not be an easy race for Leeds to win.
James Trafford praised as “incredible” by Pep Guardiola, but could he leave Man City?
Trafford looked like a top young talent at former club Burnley, and he probably thought he was moving to the Etihad Stadium to become City’s number one.
Pep Guardiola described Trafford as “incredible”, as per BBC Sport, but actions speak louder than words and it’s clearly Gianluigi Donnarumma who’s the number one for City.
James Trafford in action for Manchester City (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
The Italy international ended up joining later in the summer, but he’s clearly the bigger name and more proven performer at this level, so that doesn’t bode well for Trafford.
Where should James Trafford move to if he leaves City?
Trafford will perhaps regret his move to City, so he needs to choose his next club very carefully in order to ensure he will end up playing regularly.
Leeds seems a fairly safe bet from that point of view, as he’d surely be a clear upgrade on the likes of Karl Darlow and Illan Meslier.
Tottenham would probably also make Trafford their number one after unconvincing performances from Guglielmo Vicario since he joined.
Villa, meanwhile, currently have Emiliano Martinez as their number one, so that might be a trickier one for Trafford, unless of course the Midlands outfit end up selling the Argentine this summer.
Seabourn Venture reached 70 degrees south during a 12-day Antarctica exploration voyage from Jan. 28 to Feb. 9, 2026, setting a new record for the most southerly point in Seabourn and Carnival Corporation history, according to Seabourn. The expedition ship became the most southerly ship on the Antarctic Peninsula at the time while crossing the...
The attacker has made it clear to Palace that he wants to leave the club for a new challenge and join a club who can match his ambitions.
However, a knee injury resulted in him failing to get his desire move to the Serie A.
With the player now stuck at Palace and perhaps needing a surgery on his injury issue, his future looks uncertain.
It was expected that his actions will not go down well with the fans but even some of his teammates are unhappy with him and how he treated the club.
Crystal Palace players are unhappy with Mateta
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that some key figures in the dressing room are unhappy with Mateta.
“I don’t agree at all with the way Mateta has gone about things,” Brown told Football Insider.
“He’s been making noise about how much he wants to be paid, which clubs are interested, all of that forgetting that Crystal Palace are the reason he’s in this position.
“It’s nothing we haven’t seen before, but in my experience, it doesn’t go down well with the squad.
“He refused to play against Nottingham Forest, saying his head wasn’t in the right place, and there have been suggestions he’s not been training either, that can have an impact on the squad.
“From what I hear, some of the stronger players in that dressing room are unhappy with him. There are some good lads in that dressing room, so I’m not surprised.
“They’ll say, you’ve made your bed, you’ll have to lie in it. They’re getting on with the job with players who want to play for Crystal Palace.
“Mateta can’t have an argument for that, because it’s not as if he’s been banging the goals in either. Plus, they’ve signed Strand Larsen now, so it might be hard for him to get back in.”
Although Robertson ended up staying, it seems he now has other suitors monitoring him, including Newcastle, according to TEAMtalk.
Andrew Robertson heading for free transfer out of Liverpool
It seems inevitable that Robertson will end up leaving Liverpool this summer, as it’s hard to imagine a scenario where he’d get a new contract.
Andrew Robertson in action for Liverpool (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
The younger Milos Kerkez is now firmly ahead of Robertson in Arne Slot’s pecking order, so it surely makes sense for all parties involved if they go their separate ways in the summer.
Still, even if this is not the end he would have wanted to his LFC career, there’s no doubt Robertson has been a tremendous servant and surely up there with the all-time greats of their defence.
The 31-year-old has won two Premier League titles and the Champions League during his time on Merseyside, performing as one of the most consistent performers for those great Jurgen Klopp sides, as well as for Slot’s title winners last term.
Could Andrew Robertson do a job for Newcastle?
Tottenham’s interest surely shows that Robertson could still do a job for most Premier League clubs, so he could be a smart signing by Newcastle.
However, it looks like there could be plenty of interest in Robertson this summer, so it remains to be seen if the Magpies can give him the most tempting offer.
TEAMtalk’s report also mentions Aston Villa and Celtic, but Newcastle is undoubtedly a promising project at the moment, as well as a club with a great history and roaring atmosphere at St James’ Park.
The Hungary international has been one of Liverpool’s most important players this season, and most fans would probably agree that he deserves a new and improved deal, and that keeping him at the club would be important.
However, it could be that Szoboszlai is now demanding as much as £300,000 per week, according to Hungarian outlet Blikk.
Additional information from Anfield Watch states that Szoboszlai currently earns more like £120-150k per week, so it could be that he’s going to more than double his wages.
Should Liverpool pay up to keep Dominik Szoboszlai?
Liverpool surely need to do whatever they can to keep Szoboszlai at Anfield, but it might be tricky for them to pay quite as much as he’s apparently asking for here.
Anfield Watch’s report also notes that a £300k-per-week contract would put him ahead of Alexander Isak in terms of earnings.
Perhaps that’s justified as Szoboszlai has performed so well this season, much better, in fact, than Isak has.
Dominik Szoboszlai in action for Liverpool (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
At the same time, though, it is perhaps unclear if Szoboszlai has fully worked his way into that kind of bracket yet, or if producing this level more consistently over a longer period will be required first.
Dominik Szoboszlai’s impact for Liverpool this season
Szoboszlai has eight goals and six assists from midfield so far this season, meaning he’s already matched his goal tally from last term.
The 25-year-old looks like he’s just hitting his peak, and it’s easy to imagine him being a success at other top clubs.
Capable of playing a variety of midfield roles, Szoboszlai has also done a decent job when asked to fill in at right-back for Arne Slot’s side.
What do you think LFC fans? Is Szoboszlai worth whatever he’s asking for, or should the club be careful about paying over the odds here? Give us your thoughts in the comments!
Barcelona are preparing to turn Marcus Rashford’s loan spell into a permanent move, with the club convinced the England international represents outstanding value in the current market.
According to reports from Diario Sport, the Catalan giants intend to activate the €30 million purchase option included in Rashford’s agreement with Manchester United and are planning to offer the forward a three-year contract at Camp Nou.
The decision shows Barcelona’s satisfaction with Rashford’s impact since arriving in Spain.
At 28, the forward has rediscovered form and confidence, becoming an important part of Barça’s attacking structure.
His numbers show that influence, Rashford has directly contributed to 23 goals in 33 appearances across all competitions this season, a return that has strengthened the club’s belief that securing him permanently is both a sporting and financial win.
In a market where established forwards regularly command fees well beyond that figure, Rashford’s combination of experience, versatility, and productivity has convinced the club that finding a comparable player for less would be “impossible”.
Rashford’s ability to operate across the frontline has been a major factor.
Comfortable on either wing or through the middle, he has given Barcelona tactical flexibility while also adding pace and directness to their attack, qualities that have sometimes been missing in recent seasons.
Marcus Rashford warming up for Barcelona (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
From Man United’s standpoint, the move represents a clean break.
Rashford is a product of the club’s academy and enjoyed spells of outstanding form at Old Trafford, but consistency and direction became issues in recent years.
The loan to Barcelona was designed as a reset, and while his revival in Spain may prompt some regret among United supporters, the financial return and wage savings make the deal appealing for the Premier League side as they reshape their squad.
Former Arsenal striker Jay Bothroyd has hit back at Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior over his comments about a lack of respect from the Gunners.
Speaking on Sky Sports in the video clip below, Bothroyd insisted that what Rosenior described – players warming up and occasionally moving into their opponents’ half – happens all the time.
Rosenior was clearly not happy with Arsenal’s antics when he spoke about it in his press conference yesterday, saying: “It wasn’t the players. When you warm up, we have our half and the other team have their half. I’ve never asked my team or coaches to encroach on the other team’s territory. I thought they were affecting our warm up.
"It happens in every single game" ??
Jay Bothroyd doesn't believe Arsenal showed disrespect to Chelsea following Liam Rosenior claims but understands his frustrations ? #skysportsfcpic.twitter.com/t7qxw6uvUa
“I asked them, maybe not politely, to move away. I’m not here to have mind games. There are certain etiquettes in football. I don’t have an issue with anyone at Arsenal Football Club. It was just in that moment, I don’t think that respect was shown to my team.”
Has Liam Rosenior handled Chelsea-Arsenal saga badly?
Liam Rosenior shouts instructions during Chelsea’s defeat vs Arsenal (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Rosenior is relatively inexperienced at the highest level of management, even if he did an impressive job at Strasbourg before landing the role of replacing Enzo Maresca at Chelsea.
The 41-year-old might learn from this and decide it’s not the best way to try to manage the media, but it could also turn out to be clever mind games.
Overall, however, the reaction seems mostly to be pretty negative for the time being.
See below as journalist Henry Winter offered his take on it all…
Liam Rosenior is a highly promising young coach as he proved at Derby, Hull, Strasbourg and with six wins in eight games at Chelsea. He thinks deeply about the game. He’s obviously a very intelligent person. He’s also worked in the media. So Rosenior should be smart enough to…
“Rosenior should be smart enough to avoid observations that lead to headlines unhelpful to him and his players,” he posted.
“Coaches, especially goalkeeping ones, do step into the opposition half to deliver long kicks to warm up their keeper. It happens often. Crossing the halfway line isn’t crossing the line,” he added.
Chelsea ended up losing 1-0 to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, with the Gunners progressing 4-2 on aggregate to set up a Carabao Cup final date with Manchester City next month. In a sense, the fact that we’re now talking more about this than about Chelsea’s poor performance over both legs could be mission accomplished for Rosenior!
What do you make of this whole incident, Chelsea fans? Are you behind Rosenior or has he massively overreacted here? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Morgan Rogers’ rapid rise at Aston Villa has not gone unnoticed, and the attacking midfielder is now emerging as one of the most sought-after young talents in the Premier League.
According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea are among several top-flight sides showing a ‘strong interest’ in the 23-year-old, viewing him as a player with the potential to develop into one of the very best in his position.
Club scouts have reportedly been impressed not only by his output, but by his adaptability, Rogers has operated as a central attacking midfielder, from wide areas, and even in deeper roles when required.
Chelsea face competition from Premier League rivals
That level of interest shows how highly Rogers is now rated across the division.
For Arsenal, his dynamism and ability to operate between the lines would fit naturally into Mikel Arteta’s positional play system.
Manchester United, meanwhile, see him as a potential long-term solution in attacking midfield as they continue reshaping their squad profile.
Manchester City’s interest is perhaps the strongest endorsement of all, given their reputation for only targeting players they believe can meet the highest tactical demands under Pep Guardiola.
Aston Villa have firm stance on the England international
Morgan Rogers celebrates a goal for Aston Villa (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Despite the growing attention, Aston Villa are in a commanding position. Rogers is viewed internally as a pillar of their project, and there is no appetite to sell unless an extraordinary offer arrives.
Reports suggest Villa would demand a fee north of £100 million to even consider negotiations, a valuation that reflects both his age and his importance to the squad.
Under Unai Emery, Rogers has flourished, benefiting from a system that encourages intelligent movement, pressing intensity, and technical bravery.
Villa believe his best years are still ahead of him and see little reason to weaken their side as they aim to establish themselves as regular contenders for European football.
Chelsea defender Benoit Badiashile is now rated as “very likely” to be out of the Blues’ project as transfer suitors emerge ahead of the summer.
As first reported here for the Daily Briefing, there has not yet been any contact from clubs for Badiashile, despite some background interest from AC Milan.
I’m also told that Juventus and Marseille could be two teams to watch in the race for Badiashile’s signature, as he’s set to be made available for around €35m this summer.
Chelsea consider Badiashile out of their project and will ideally look to sell him permanently rather than loaning him out.
Sources on Benoit Badiashile’s Chelsea future
“Badiashile is very likely out of the Chelsea project now,” one source in the industry told me this morning. “There has been some interest from AC Milan, albeit nothing that concrete yet, but we can expect to see them and others step up their efforts in the months ahead.
Benoit Badiashile in training with Chelsea (Photo by Jasper Wax/Getty Images)
“While I wouldn’t say Chelsea are forcing Badiashile out, they are very much open to offers and would prefer a permanent sale to a loan. His asking price will be in the region of €35m.”
Badiashile will surely have options once it comes to leaving Stamford Bridge, but he’ll no doubt be disappointed he couldn’t make more of this opportunity.
The Frenchman looked highly promising when he first joined from Monaco in 2023, but it just hasn’t quite happened for him in English football.
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has acknowledged that the club came close to strengthening their defensive ranks during the closing stages of the January transfer window, only to see a potential move fall through.
The Reds, who have been severely stretched at the back this season, explored a deal for Lutsharel Geertruida, but ultimately decided against pursuing the transfer due to its complexity.
Liverpool targeted a move for Lutsharel Geertruida
Slot knows the defender well from their shared time at Feyenoord, where Geertruida captained the side and became a cornerstone of Slot’s defensive structure.
His versatility, capable of operating at centre-back or full-back, made him particularly appealing given Liverpool’s short-handed squad.
However, the move proved far from straightforward. Geertruida is currently on loan at Sunderland from RB Leipzig, creating a complicated three-club scenario.
Rather than forcing through a stopgap solution, Liverpool opted to think ahead.
The club instead focused their efforts on securing Jérémy Jacquet from Stade Rennais, agreeing a deal worth around £60 million to bring the highly rated centre-back to Anfield in the summer.
The move reflects Liverpool’s preference for long-term planning over short-term fixes, even in the face of immediate challenges.
“I think I’ve said that we’ve tried to strengthen the squad, so that probably tells you [I wanted players] and I don’t think I was the only one who wanted that,” Slot said on Thursday, as reported by the Mirror.
“But it’s always about availability and the right player.
“We do have discussions about what is good for the short and for the long term of the club and now, for example, Jeremy Jacquet wasn’t available for the winter, but he was for the summer.
“We’ve made a decision to sign him because we think he’s a really good signing for the future of this club. I’m very happy with the squad. Let that be clear. But it’s all clear and obvious, that we have three long-term injuries (Bradley, Leoni, Alexander Isak).
“That’s why we’ve tried to strengthen the squad in winter break and the player you mentioned (Geertruida), in the end, wasn’t available. But we’ve tried to strengthen the squad – that is clear.
“And that tells you that we think that it would have helped us. But it should be possible that we’re not gonna sign players that are not good enough to play for this club.”
Lutsharel Geertruida of Sunderland (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Slot has since hinted that while January was difficult, the club did not want to compromise its wider strategy.
Bringing in Jacquet is seen internally as a major investment in the future of Liverpool’s defense, rather than a reactionary decision driven solely by injuries.
With injuries testing their depth and Geertruida’s situation proving too complex, the Reds chose patience over panic.
The Argentina international has been linked strongly with Arsenal by ESPN after impressing during his time in La Liga, but he’s probably not someone who’d make sense for Bayern as they already have Harry Kane up front.
Arsenal, however, could do with bringing in someone like Alvarez after an unconvincing start for Viktor Gyokeres at the Emirates Stadium this season.
Arsenal boost in Julian Alvarez transfer race
Discussing Bayern links with Alvarez, Falk said: “He’s an interesting player, but when I spoke with some guys from Bayern, they said they didn’t need these rumours at the moment – they wanted a quiet transfer window.
Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid looks on (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
“So they won’t go for him at the moment. They’d love to have a player like him in the team, but with a contract until 2030, it’s a no-go.
“They did try to sign him in 2023, around the time Harry Kane signed; they were thinking about another striker and whether having the Englishman alone was enough. But, at the moment, it’s not a move they’re going to push for.”
Is Julian Alvarez the answer for Arsenal?
Alvarez has mostly shone during his time in Madrid, as well as looking a very decent squad playing when he was at Manchester City, so it’s easy to see why Arsenal might be interested.
At the same time, however, it’s worth noting that the 26-year-old is on a run of just one goal in his last 13 games in all competitions.
Given that Alvarez would surely cost huge money, Arsenal need to be careful before putting all their eggs into that basket, even if there appears to be a bit of a shortage of top strikers on the market at the moment.
Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka feels his style of play would be suited to the Premier League after interest from Arsenal in January.
The Germany international is coming towards the end of his contract at the Allianz Arena, and Christian Falk has provided a fresh update on his situation.
Arsenal made Goretzka an offer towards the end of the winter window, and although he didn’t want to leave midway through the season, a move to England is still a possibility, according to Falk in his CF Bayern Insider column.
This could mean the Gunners will still get their man eventually, but Falk also mentioned other suitors in the race for his signature.
Christian Falk on Leon Goretzka and potential Premier League transfer
Leon Goretzka of Bayern Munich in action (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
“This was a very interesting option for the German, but at this point, he’d already decided he wouldn’t move in the winter. When Atletico Madrid knocked at his door, he made an official statement on his Instagram account – as did Bayern Munich. It’s not the way of Goretzka to break his word at the last minute – even for Arsenal!
“I think he has a good idea for the Premier League. He believes his playing style suits the English top-flight.
“There’s still, also, the interest from Atletico Madrid, so plenty of options for the future. Italy is also an opportunity, with interest from Juventus, Milan, Napoli.
“Arsenal, of course, would have been interesting for the midfielder, but the offer came too late on deadline day, which didn’t leave anyone enough time to react. What a pity for Arsenal and Goretzka!”
Arsenal left with lack of midfield cover
Arsenal’s interest in Goretzka was presumably a response to the injury to Mikel Merino, which leaves them a little short of depth in midfield.
Mikel Arteta has only Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi as reliable options in the middle of the park, with Christian Norgaard barely featuring for the north Londoners since joining last summer.
Goretzka is a player with great experience at the highest level, and he could have been an ideal short-term signing to add depth like someone like Jorginho did for a couple of years.
It remains to be seen if this is something AFC would look at again in the summer, but perhaps other Premier League clubs could come into the equation too.
Transfer news expert Fabrizio Romano has provided his insight into the Cristiano Ronaldo situation with Al Nassr, admitting that the Portuguese superstar is “upset”.
The 41-year-old is currently refusing to play for Al Nassr, as reported by ESPN, who also state that his long-term future with the Saudi Pro League club could be in serious doubt.
Romano has admitted that Ronaldo is not happy at the moment, but he also stressed that people shouldn’t be overreacting to the situation and talking up a transfer away for the player at this stage.
It will be interesting to see how this develops, but for now it seems that Romano does not necessarily see this as the beginning of the end for Ronaldo at Al Nassr.
Fabrizio Romano on Cristiano Ronaldo’s situation at Al Nassr
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said: “I can tell you that Cristiano remains upset. Cristiano remains upset with the situation.
Cristiano Ronaldo reacts during Al Nassr vs Al Taawoun (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)
“I told you in a video yesterday, let’s not overreact – Cristiano to MLS, Cristiano breaking his contract, and this kind of stuff. For now, let’s not overreact.
“But for the present, to give you an update, to give you news, Cristiano Ronaldo, according to my information, will not play a crucial game on Friday because Cristiano has no injury, no fitness management, no physical problems.
“So, forget about that. Cristiano is fit but Cristiano will not be without squad exactly as he did a few days ago. Why? Because Cristiano remains upset with the management from the Saudi group, especially PIF, that is taking care of several clubs in Saudi.”
He added: “Again I told you yesterday guys I’m not here to speak for Cristiano Ronaldo. I am not one to speak for Cristiano Ronaldo. There will be Cristiano clarifying. There will be people close to Cristiano clarifying.
“There will be Al Nassr for sure also clarifying. So it’s not my duty to come here and tell you what’s going on, but it’s my duty to tell you what I’m hearing. And my information is that Cristiano is not happy with the current situation and with what happened in this transfer window.”
What next for Cristiano Ronaldo?
If Ronaldo doesn’t stay at Al Nassr then there will inevitably be big speculation about where he could end up next, and if we could see him back in Europe.
The Portugal international remains a top player and even at the age of 41 he may well still fancy himself to play for a big club in a competitive league.
At the same time, however, there probably aren’t too many clubs who can afford his astronomical wages, while it also seems a bit risky to be moving for someone who is surely not too far away now from retiring from football altogether.
Chelsea are preparing to play hardball over the future of Enzo Fernández, with reports in Spain suggesting the club have drawn a clear financial line amid growing interest from Real Madrid.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Chelsea have set a minimum asking price of €100 million (£87m) for the Argentine international, though sources believe the final figure could rise closer to €120 million (£105m) before negotiations become realistic.
Even that valuation shows how highly Chelsea rate Fernández. The midfielder arrived at Chelsea in a blockbuster deal worth around £107 million, and the club remain keen to protect both their sporting and financial investment.
With a long-term contract in place, Chelsea are under no immediate pressure to sell and are expected to demand a fee that reflects Fernández’s importance to the squad.
Real Madrid have long term interest in Fernandez
Even that valuation shows how highly the Blues rate Fernández.
With a long-term contract in place, the Premier League side are under no immediate pressure to sell and are expected to demand a fee that reflects Fernández’s importance to the squad.
Chelsea hold firm stance over their star midfielder
Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez in action against Fulham (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
From Chelsea’s perspective, Fernández remains central to their project.
Despite periods of inconsistency across the squad, he has been one of the more reliable performers, offering control, passing range, and leadership in midfield.
Club sources suggest the Blues view him as a cornerstone around which future improvements will be built, not a player earmarked for sale.
That explains why the reported €100-120 million range may only represent the starting point rather than a final compromise.
Given Chelsea’s original outlay, selling below that level would make little sense unless circumstances change dramatically.
Cristian Romero’s standing as one of the Premier League’s most combative and accomplished centre-backs has not gone unnoticed across Europe, and his future at Tottenham is now under growing scrutiny.
According to TEAMtalk, both Barcelona and Real Madrid are showing serious interest in the Argentine defender amid signs of mounting frustration in north London.
At 27, Romero is entering what should be the peak years of his career.
Since arriving at Tottenham Hotspur, he has established himself as the heart of Spurs’ defense, admired for his aggression, leadership, and ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.
However, despite his individual growth, Tottenham’s wider project has struggled to match his ambitions.
Frustration behind the scenes at Tottenham
Romero’s discontent appears to stem from Tottenham’s recruitment strategy and their perceived inability to consistently strengthen the squad with elite-level signings.
Spurs’ recent transfer windows have focused heavily on youth, depth, and financial sustainability rather than marquee arrivals, a model that has drawn mixed reactions from senior players.
The defender’s frustration became public after he took to Instagram to comment on Spurs’ lack of squad depth, describing the situation as “unbelievable but true and disgraceful.”
While Romero did not explicitly call out the club hierarchy, the timing and tone of the message were widely interpreted as a clear expression of dissatisfaction, particularly given Tottenham’s recurring injury problems and struggles to compete on multiple fronts.
Sergio Romero celebrates after Tottenham’s win vs Eintracht Frankfurt (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
For Romero, the appeal of a move to Spain is clear. Both Barcelona and Real Madrid offer regular Champions League football and realistic chances of competing for major honours, ambitions Romero is believed to hold strongly.
Barcelona admire his intensity and front-foot defending, viewing him as a potential long-term leader in their back line as they continue to rebuild under financial and sporting constraints.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, are always alert to opportunities involving elite defenders.
With an ageing defensive core and a long-term succession plan already in motion, Romero’s profile, battle-hardened, experienced, and still in his prime, fits their recruitment philosophy.
Manchester United fans may be interested to learn that two of their former players, Jesse Lingard and Robin van Persie, could be set to link up at Feyenoord.
Lingard and Van Persie briefly played together for Man Utd, and it could now be that the former England winger will be managed by the former Netherlands striker.
It remains to be seen if this will definitely go through, but it looks like a return to Europe with Feyenoord is a serious option for Lingard since his departure from South Korean club FC Seoul.
Who else is looking at Man United cult hero Jesse Lingard?
Jesse Lingard celebrates a goal for FC Seoul (Photo by Lintao Zhang/Getty Images)
It could also be that Lingard has another spell in the Premier League in him, with the Mail noting that the likes of West Ham and Wolves have been looking at him.
Serie A outfit Genoa are also mentioned in the report, so it seems like the 33-year-old won’t be short of options.
Lingard remains something of a cult hero from his United days, and he also previously shone during a loan spell with West Ham.
Even if the former England international is clearly no longer at his peak, it would be exciting to see him back playing at a higher level again before the end of his career.
MUFC supporters will also surely be particularly intrigued to see how he might get on under Van Persie, who has not endured the smoothest start as manager of Feyenoord, but who will surely be one of a number of former players who could be a future candidate for the job at Old Trafford if he manages to improve.
Manchester United’s hunt for a new permanent manager has taken a dramatic turn, with fresh reports from France suggesting the club have already begun exploring one of the most high-profile options available in European football.
According to a trusted source on X, relayed by a reliable contact in France, Man United officials recently held talks in Paris with Iván de la Peña, whose agency, De la Peña & Sostres, represents Luis Enrique.
The meeting reportedly took place last week and centred on an ambitious attempt by United to convince Enrique to reject a new contract offer from Paris Saint-Germain.
While no agreement was reached, the very fact that discussions occurred shows the scale of Man United’s managerial ambition ahead of the summer.
Man United in transition after Ruben Amorim exit
United are currently in a holding pattern following the dismissal of Rúben Amorim, with club legend Michael Carrick installed as interim head coach.
Carrick is expected to guide the team through the remainder of the season, but the club’s hierarchy have made it clear that a permanent appointment will only be made after a thorough evaluation of all available options.
That process appears to be well underway and targeting Enrique would represent a bold statement of intent.
Luis Enrique looks on during PSG vs Bayer Leverkusen (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Enrique is regarded as one of the elite managers of the modern era. He won a historic treble with Barcelona, showcasing his ability to manage global superstars while implementing a clear tactical identity.
At PSG, he has further enhanced his reputation by transforming the club into a more cohesive and tactically disciplined side, taking them to a new level in Europe by winning the Champions League in 2025 and reinforcing their status as a genuine force in football.
Club
Competition
Trophy Count
Season(s) Won
Paris Saint-Germain
Ligue 1
2
2023/24, 2024/25
UEFA Champions League
1
2024/25
Coupe de France
1
2023/24
Trophée des Champions
1
2023
UEFA Super Cup
1
2025
FIFA Intercontinental Cup
1
2025
FC Barcelona
La Liga
2
2014/15, 2015/16
Copa del Rey
3
2014/15, 2015/16, 2016/17
UEFA Champions League
1
2014/15
FIFA Club World Cup
1
2015
UEFA Super Cup
1
2015
Supercopa de España
1
2016
Total Honours
Major Trophies
16
2x Treble Winner
His track record at the highest level, combined with his experience handling dressing rooms filled with elite talent, makes him an attractive candidate for a Man United side desperate to re-establish authority, consistency, and a clear footballing vision.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, there are now plans for Napoli and McTominay to sit down and discuss a new contract for the Scotland international, whose current deal with the Serie A giants expires in 2028.
Red Devils fans must be disappointed with their club’s decision to let McTominay leave, as he’s gone on to become a star player for Napoli, scoring 22 goals in 69 appearances so far and helping them win the title last season.
Scott McTominay to extend his stay at Napoli?
It now looks like McTominay is likely to extend his stay at Napoli even further, dashing hopes of a possible return to the Premier League.
Scott McTominay in action for Napoli (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
United looking into bringing the 29-year-old back is hardly surprising after his eye-catching displays since leaving, and in truth he was often a bit of an underrated part of their squad while he was still at Old Trafford.
Arsenal, meanwhile, don’t exactly look like they desperately need new midfielders, but someone with McTominay’s goal threat from the middle of the park would always be useful.
Players improving after leaving Manchester United
McTominay is not the only big name to shine after leaving MUFC in recent times, with the likes of Marcus Rashford, Antony and Rasmus Hojlund also improving.
Rashford has looked back to his old self whilst on loan at Barcelona this season, while Antony has flourished at Real Betis and Hojlund has impressed alongside McTominay at Napoli.
This will be immensely frustrating for United fans, with their club frequently unable to make the most out of their signings despite often spending more than their rivals in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era.
Snowboarder Red Gerard is looking to secure a spot back on the podium in Milan. He’s one to watch in the winter games.
Gerard set the bar high during his first winter game in 2018 in Pyeongchang, becoming the youngest American snowboarder to win an Olympic medal. He took home gold in Slopestyle at just 17-years-old.
Four years later in Beijing, he finished just off the podium in fourth place.
Gerard credits his family for his success.
“Growing up in Colorado is really hard to get snow days. I was lucky my parents were so awesome and with all my brothers, that when we got tons of snow our parents would let us skip school that day,” Gerard said.
In addition to his Olympic gold medal, he also has four World Cup wins.
Tommy Novak shoveled Egor Chinakhov’s rebound for a hard-fought goal, and frustrations over officiating and scoring chances denied melted away. Novak was the only Pittsburgh Penguins (29-15-12) goal scorer who was not a rookie.
And the Penguins hit the Olympic break with a well-earned 5-2 win over the Buffalo Sabres (32-19-6) at Key Bank Center.
Avery Hayes scored a pair of impressive goals. Important ones, too.
Second shift. First career shot. First NHL goal. The perfect storm of Penguins’ injury (Rickard Rakell), illness (Noel Acciari), and personal absence (Blake Lizotte) created a need for the Penguins to make a recall just hours before the game. The organization chose the scrappy Hayes to make his NHL debut, and they were handsomely rewarded.
Midway through the first period, Hayes chased a bouncing puck in the offensive zone and zipped past defenseman Jacob Bryson for a short breakaway. Hayes (1) showed a healthy burst of speed past Bryson for the puck and whipped it past Buffalo goalie Alex Lyon at 9:17 of the first period for a 1-1 tie.
Tottenham Hotspur passed on the opportunity to bolster their attack with a high-profile loan move for Colombian striker Jhon Duran on transfer deadline day.
Despite a frantic final few hours of the winter window, the North London club ultimately decided to stick with their current squad.
Tottenham turned down chance to sign Jhon Duran
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed on the Here We Go podcast that Duran was offered to Spurs as a ‘last-minute chance’ while he was looking to cut short his loan spell at Fenerbahce.
The 22-year-old, who made headlines last year with a massive £64 million move to Saudi side Al-Nassr, has amassed an impressive career tally of 54 goals and 15 assists across his spells in MLS, the Premier League, and abroad.
The French international has been heavily linked with a return to PSG or a move to Juventus after a stop-start beginning to life in London.
“Tottenham were offered the possibility to sign Jhon Duran on loan from Fenerbahce, who is on loan from Al-Nassr.
“He was offered to Tottenham as a last-minute chance for Spurs. The club decided against it.
“It was a possibility that was offered because some people in the industry thought that Tottenham were going to break the loan for Randal Kolo Muani to go to Juventus from Paris Saint-Germain.
“So that was a possibility, but Tottenham decided to continue with Kolo Muani. He started the last two games, so they decided to trust the player and turn down the opportunity to sign Duran, who was keen on this possibility.”
Manager Thomas Frank reportedly played a key role in the decision, opting for continuity over another mid-season transition, despite the team languishing in 14th place.
Duran joins Zenit in shock move
With the door to the Premier League closed, Duran’s entourage acted quickly.
Within hours of the English deadline passing, it was confirmed that the ‘lethal‘ striker had terminated his contract in Turkey to join Zenit Saint Petersburg on loan for the remainder of the season.
The move to Russia marks Durán’s third club in just 12 months, continuing a nomadic period for the former Aston Villa man.
While Spurs fans wonder if they missed out on a clinical goalscorer, the club’s hierarchy is betting that Kolo Muani will finally find his shooting boots as they look to salvage their season.
NBA fans have been lighting up the internet as each trade is announced, eagerly anticipating the next move. The NBA trade deadline isn’t for the weak, and the internet is undefeated when it comes to jokes, chaos, and viral reactions.
From shocking player moves to unexpected deals, social media is buzzing with reactions, memes, and hot takes. Whether celebrating, panicking, or just scrolling for the drama, NBA fans are making it clear: deadline day is pure chaos.
And now that the deadline has officially passed, let's deep dive into what the fans are talking about.
There have been some trades no one saw coming and some that everyone pretty much anticipated would happen.
Shams Charania, ESPN Senior NBA Insider, has been working overtime to report each trade and share anticipation on who was possibly next. Some of the big trades fans are discussing include James Harden, Jared McCain, Rob Dillingham, Kristaps Porzingis, Jonathan Kuminga, Lonzo Ball, Chris Paul, Collin Sexton, and Anthony Davis.
When Charania announced Davis was being traded in what he called “an NBA trade deadline week stunner,” fans immediately took to the comment section of the IG post.
“Anthony Davis for Khris Middleton and some picks there’s no way,” one fan wrote. Another said, “Congrats Mavericks, you traded Luka for absolutely nothing!” One other fan shared, “Dallas is literally giving up.”
Fans Joke About James Harden Jumping From Team To Team
Sportscenter shared the news that Harden “is a Cavalier” and that “Cleveland becomes his sixth team in his NBA career” on their IG page.
It didn’t take fans long to share their thoughts on Harden being traded to the Cavs.
“This would’ve made the world explode in 2016,” one fan joked. Another asked, “Who won this trade?” And one other shared, “Now LeBron has to return to Cleveland for the Last Dance.”
One other fan said what many might be thinking right about now - “Around the same time next year, James Harden?”
Jared McCain Gets Traded And NBA Fans Are Divided
One trade that seemed to have mixed reviews right down the middle is Jared McCain. McCain, well known both on the court and on TikTok as a dancing content creator, was traded to Oklahoma City Thunder from the Philadelphia 76ers.
DraftKings wrote, “Thunder are STACKED” in the comment section of Charania’s post.
One viewer said, “TikToks boutta be egregious.” Another added, “Thunder front office is genuinely insane.” One fan shared, “he’s gonna have SO much fun w this team I already know.”
McCain has nearly 5 million followers on TikTok. His last post on the app was a few days prior to being traded, but fans are taking to the comment section of that latest video to share some thoughts.
“Go win a ring in OKC,” one person wrote. Another said, “He was supposed to be a Sixer for life.” Many of the comments were positive about the change and welcomed him to OKC. There were also plenty of people sad about McCain leaving Philly and shared that in the comments.
Many NBA Fans Were Waiting In Anticipation To Hear About A Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade
Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has been the talk of the internet for some time regarding a trade. Most NBA fans were waiting for that big news, but it appears that if he gets traded, it will be during the offseason.
One fan was clearly tired of Charania talking about the possibility of a trade and took to X to make a bet.
The account BucksRealm shared, “If GA gets moved before the deadline, you can have the deed to my home and my 2025 Grand Cherokee. If nothing happens yet again, you convince ESPN to let me square up with you for just 37 seconds so I can rearrange your entire f-cking face.”
Shortly after that post, Charania shared, “The Milwaukee Bucks have indicated to teams that they are keeping Giannis Antetokounmpo through the trade deadline and will start making other trades, sources tell ESPN.”
One Thing Many Fans Didn't Expect: Ja Morant Stays With The Memphis Grizzlies
Many fans not only were watching to see if Antetokounmpo was headed to a new team, but many were watching Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant.
Charania posted on IG shortly after the deadline passed, "Ja Morant remained with the Memphis Grizzlies past today's NBA trade deadline. Multiple teams were intrigued by Morant's talent but none were willing to make a serious offer, sources said."
"Miami Heat running it back," one fan took to the comments to say. Another added, "He’s coming to Miami in the offseason."
One fan was clearly not amused by the way this trade season went and said, "Is the Trade deadline over? If yes, it gotta be the worst and most boring trade deadlines in recent years."
Liverpool host Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday in what is set to be a cracking showdown between two of Premier League’s best teams over the last decade.
The Reds need a win to continue their growing momentum in the second half of the season.
While Man City can not afford to lose any more points if they want to catch up with Arsenal at the top of the table.
Tension will be high on Merseyside, and fans will be desperate to witness the spectacle firsthand. If you are looking to be there in person, you can find information on how to buy Liverpool vs Manchester City tickets.
Liverpool predicted XI vs Man City
(Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Arne Slot is expected to keep the same lineup that beat Newcastle 4-1 last weekend.
Most notably, Dominik Szoboszlai is expected to continue his “inverted” role at right-back, filling in for the injured Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley while adding extra midfield presence in possession.
The only change in defence we expect is for the experienced Andy Robertson to replace Milos Kerkez for this encounter.
Ibrahim Konate is expected to partner Virgil van Dijk in the heart of the defence while Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch.
In attack, the partnership between Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike has been the talk of the Premier League.
Ekitike, who scored twice against Newcastle, starts up top, flanked by the ever reliable Mohamed Salah and the versatile Cody Gakpo.
GK: Alisson Becker
RB: Dominik Szoboszlai
CB: Ibrahima Konaté
CB: Virgil van Dijk
LB: Andy Robertson
CM: Ryan Gravenberch
CM: Alexis Mac Allister
LW: Cody Gakpo
AM: Florian Wirtz
RW: Mohamed Salah
ST: Hugo Ekitike
Liverpool Predicted XI vs Man City via Create Formation
Form Comparison: Liverpool vs Manchester City
The two giants enter this fixture with contrasting momentum. Liverpool have found their rhythm in early 2026, while City have struggled with uncharacteristic inconsistency and a rare goal drought for Erling Haaland.
Liverpool’s Last Six (PL):
W 4-1 vs Newcastle
L 2-3 vs Bournemouth
D 1-1 vs Burnley
D 0-0 vs Arsenal
D 2-2 vs Fulham
D 0-0 vs Leeds
Manchester City’s Last Six (PL):
D 2-2 vs Spurs
W 2-0 vs Wolves
L 0-2 vs Man United
D 1-1 vs Brighton
D 1-1 vs Chelsea
D 0-0 vs Sunderland
While City won the reverse fixture 3-0 in November, Anfield has rarely been a kind hunting ground for Pep Guardiola.
With Liverpool’s new look attack starting to click, the Reds are expected to be much more of a threat compared to the game at the Etihad.
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has addressed the inevitable future of the club without captain Virgil van Dijk, insisting that while the defender remains vital, the hierarchy is already preparing for a transition.
Speaking ahead of a crurcial clash with Manchester City, Slot emphasised that Liverpool’s recruitment strategy is based on long-term stability rather than reactive “panic.”
Speaking to the media ahead of the game against City, he said (via BBC Sport): “Everything done over here is never from panic, it’s always long term idea and or something that has been thought about for a long time and not only one person.
“Of course, we are aware of the fact that Virgil won’t play for 10 years but he has one-and-a-half years [of] contract left, so he will be with us for that time, maybe longer even longer if he keeps staying fit as fit as he is now.
“What a compliment to him at his age to play every three days, not only now for our club but for his country for seven or eight months already.
“Hopefully, he can stay as fit as he is for multiple years but this club is not stupid. We do know somewhere in the upcoming years, there is life for this club after Virgil.
“You are talking about Virgil but I can say this for every position. This club is not only thinking short-term future but also the mid to long-term future.”
Van Dijk has been an outstanding servant for Liverpool
Since his transformative £75 million move from Southampton in 2018, Virgil Van Dijk has anchored the most successful period in Liverpool’s modern history.
Having led the team to Premier League and Champions League titles, his influence remains immense.
Even at 34, his statistics remain elite. This season, he has won more aerial duels (119) than any other defender in the Premier League.
Van Dijk can play at elite level for another several years
Despite the club signing younger reinforcements like Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni, Van Dijk’s fitness proves he can continue playing at the top level for another several years.
The manager suggested that as long as the fitness levels hold, an extension beyond 2027 is a genuine possibility.
Category
Stat
Appearances (All Competitions)
353 (ongoing)
Goals (All Competitions)
31
Assists (All Competitions)
16
Clean Sheets
130+
Premier League Titles
2 (2019–20, 2024–25)
UEFA Champions League
1 (2018–19)
FA Cup
1 (2021–22)
League Cup
2 (2022, 2024)
FA Community Shield
1 (2022)
UEFA Super Cup
1 (2019)
FIFA Club World Cup
1 (2019)
With his leadership in the dressing room and his unmatched reading of the game, Van Dijk remains the gold standard.
While the club is wisely building the mid-to-long-term future, the immediate priority remains centered around the man who redefined the Liverpool defense.
Manchester United are looking to improve the attacking unit with the signing of Yan Diomande at the end of the season.
The 19-year-old has performed well for RB Leipzig and has attracted the attention of top teams. According to a report from TEAMtalk, Manchester United are keeping tabs on the Ivorian, and they could be leading the race for him in the summer.
Man United eye Yan Diomande
“One name emerging strongly is Yan Diomande. Indeed, there is a growing feeling within recruitment circles that Diomande could be the first option United explore as a replacement [for Rashford].
“Other clubs who have enquired about the RB Leipzig winger have come away with the understanding that United are very much in the picture and could lead the race for his signature when the summer window opens.”
The report further claims that the player dreams of a move to Liverpool. It remains to be seen whether the Premier League champions are willing to make a move for him. They could use more quality and depth in the wide areas. They need an upgrade on Cody Gakpo.
Diomande will add explosive pace and flair to their attacking unit. He has 14 goal contributions this season.
The 19-year-old will look to join a team where he can play a prominent role. Sitting on the bench will not be an option for him. It will be interesting to see where he ends up. He is a tremendous prospect with a bright future, and he could develop into a world-class player with the right guidance. He is unlikely to be a cheap acquisition either.
Arsenal are interested in signing the Borussia Dortmund left-back, Daniel Svensson.
According to BILD, Arsenal will compete with Leeds United for the 23-year-old, and it remains to be seen whether they can complete the deal.
The defender is valued at £26 million, and Arsenal certainly have the financial muscle to complete the deal. However, it would be quite surprising if they invested in the Swedish defender. They already have players like Myles Lewis-Skelly and Riccardo Calafiori. They might not be able to accommodate Svensson in the starting lineup.
Arsenal move might not be ideal for Daniel Svensson
The Bundesliga fullback needs to play regularly at this stage of his career, and sitting on the bench at Arsenal would be detrimental to his growth. On the other hand, moving to Leeds United could be ideal. He could play regularly with them, and exposure to the Premier League could further improve and accelerate his development.
The asking price is affordable for both clubs. It will be interesting to see if they follow up on the interest with an official proposal to get the deal done.
Daniel Svensson has been linked with Arsenal (Getty Images)
If Arsenal do proceed with their interest in signing the player, it could mean the end of the road for Lewis-Skelly.
The young defender has been linked with a move away from Arsenal, and Chelsea are keen on him, as per TEAMtalk. The Blues will certainly look at the situation as encouragement to continue their pursuit. It remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.
Svensson has performed well in Germany and has the quality to thrive in English football as well. He could be an asset in the right team. Although he is naturally a left back, he can operate as a winger as well as a central midfielder.
As Super Bowl excitement builds this week, ESPN host and reporter Laura Rutledge is currently in one of the busiest, and most electric, weeks of the NFL season.
From delivering coverage of the Big Game to sharing her personal game-day party must-haves, Rutledge offers an insider’s look at how she balances high-pressure reporting with fun, fan-friendly traditions. The Blast got an exclusive glimpse into Super Bowl week through the eyes of Rutledge, one of ESPN’s most trusted and recognizable voices.
Through a timely partnership with Farm Rich Frozen Snacks, Rutledge also shares her must-have game day menu and tips, as well as how she prepares for the big game.
Laura Rutledge On Getting Game-Day Ready
Contributed Photo
Ahead of the Big Game, Rutledge was excited to team up with Farm Rich Frozen Snacks and fans can get a delicious piece of the action. Farm Rich is giving away 10 Ultimate Farm Rich Game Day Hosting Packs to help fuel some game day parties.
“I love football and I love anything that has to do with football, so the fact that Farm Rich is really right in line with all of that with their great snacks, has been an incredible partnership for me and I’ve really enjoyed it,” she told The Blast exclusively. “My kids love the snacks. We’re big fans of the mozzarella sticks and the loaded potato skins.”
Rutledge said that she just “throws these in the air fryer,” making busy nights a little bit easier and tastier. She’s excited to help spread the word to fans on how they can win a Game Day Hosting Pack.
“I am so excited for everyone to try Farm Rich and to experience this with their awesome Big Game giveaway which is really, really great stuff,” she said. “You get a top of the line air fryer plus Farm Rich frozen snacks for up to 20 friends. You can really put on a great party with this, and they’re giving this out to 10 lucky winners.”
How To Enter To Win One Of 10 Ultimate Farm Rich Game Day Hosting Packs
To enter, visit Farm Rich’s website or Instagram page, or Rutledge’s Instagram page. Rutledge shared all the information in her recent IG post with a cute video featuring her kids.
“Hosting the Big Game should not feel like a full contact sport. @farmrichsnacks are the ultimate hosting hack so I can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the game with my family. Easy to pop in the air fryer, delicious, and always gone before halftime. Now we’re cookin’” she wrote.
“How to Enter: Like the giveaway post pinned on the @farmrichsnacks official Instagram account. Follow @farmrichsnacks and comment on their giveaway post to enter. Share the giveaway post to your Instagram Story or feed for a bonus entry!”
Laura Rutledge's Must-Haves For A Game Day Party
Farm Rich
When she’s not on the sidelines working, Rutledge knows what makes a game-watching party fun and memorable.
“I think it’s all about having a little bit of variety, so that’s where Farm Rich helps so much because they have so many different options and there is really kind of something for everyone. The mozzarella sticks are kind of a mainstay and the jalapeno poppers are amazing, and I mentioned the loaded potato skins, too,” she said. “We even make a little dip to go with them that was actually suggested. Farm Rich has a bunch of great recipes that you can find on their page.”
Rutledge explained that the key to a good game day party is having a variety of finger foods, veggies, and dips, something that people can “grab and sort of go and be around the house socializing” or watching the game. Finger foods also make it easy for the kids since they rarely want to sit down to eat during a party.
She also said another main focus for her is making sure the food is something that isn’t difficult or complicated to prepare, so she can socialize and have a good time with everyone. Her no-fail hack? Dips!
“I think people love dips and like to have options with the dips. One of the things I do and it works great with the loaded potato skins is take some ranch dressing and then chop up some chives. So it looks a little bit more gourmet and kind of just sprinkle your chives over the top,” she shared. “You could make a ranch dip with ranch seasoning, a little bit of sour cream, a little bit of Greek yogurt, put that all together, stir it up and then top it with your chopped chives.”
Laura Rutledge Shared Some Insight Into Her Journey To The NFL
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA
With yesterday being National Girls and Women in Sports Day, the conversation with Rutledge was super timely.
“It’s cool we have this day,” she said. “Just really thankful for what this is and really the path that’s been paved before us and then the path that we hopefully can continue to pave ourselves.”
Rutledge explained that it’s taken a lot of hard work throughout her journey and credits her success with “being professional, being well researched, leading with knowledge and curiosity.”
“Also, looking at things through the lens of a fan. You know, what does a fan want to know and how can I bring that to them?” she continued. “That’s ultimately at the end of the day, our most important job, especially as a sideline reporter.”
Something she also spoke about are the relationships she’s built with the other women in the business.
“What I think has been amazing for me is just some of the great relationships I’ve built with other women in this business who are in the same boat or maybe trying to get into the business,” she said. “I take that very seriously, you know, passing this to the next generation of women who are going to be doing this and providing a helping hand. I think it’s such an honor to be in a position to be able to do that, so it means the world to me and I really pinch myself."
Starting off in radio and never really aspiring to be on TV, Rutledge’s career has taken some interesting turns, so she has some advice to share with women looking to get into sports media.
“I love the audio side of storytelling, and I think that’s given the foundation for what my career would ultimately become. I tried so many different sports, got a lot of experience, failed a ton. I still fail all the time and failing is something that I hate, but I do think it helps and you learn something from it,” she said. “For me, it’s sort of putting yourself out there, especially as a woman in this business and trying all sorts of different things, being willing to try different things because that’s really attractive to somebody that would be your potential employer. But lead with knowledge and be over prepared. I think that sets you up for a lot more success than the alternative.”
When asked what one of the biggest misconceptions about being a sideline reporter is, Rutledge shared that nobody is telling them what to say.
"Whatever we say is something we came up with. That's sort of the blessing and the curse of it, but there's also nothing that's really scripted or nothing that's really planned," she said. "We will know in the open of the game that we're going to have a report or maybe an interview, but then it's kind of up to us to find things or to report on injuries or report on the things that are happening down there."
Preparing For The Big Game, Balancing Motherhood And Work, And What Happens After Sunday
This has been one busy week for Rutledge, who shared a little about how she prepares for this time of year.
"There are so many different roles that I have this week, and so it's kind of like a variety of preparation," she told The Blast. "And one of the cool things about 'NFL Live,' just being on a daily show on ESPN, is that we have talked about this game in every which possible way, so it's kind of funny trying to find different ways to look at it and then also pulling out a little bit and saying, 'Okay, what's the bigger picture view?'"
When the topic of work/motherhood balance entered the chat, Rutledge proudly talked about her two kids, ages 6 and 2.
"Being a mom is by far the most important role I'll ever have. That's the thing that take the priority over everything," she said. "And I think what's been important for me, especially this season that's been so crazy with the workload and the travel, is when I am home, just being completely present with my kids as much as I can."
So once the Big Game is all said and done, what's Rutledge looking forward to?
"The offseason's actually really fun for us on 'NFL Live' because we continue on. So even though the football offseason has commenced, we carry on and it's a daily show," she said. "What's neat for me is that we really transition into covering the NFL draft and the prospects that are going to be coming into the NFL or the guys that I've been covering in college football, so it's kind of like my worlds finally collide."
And of course, being able to slow down a bit and spend more time with the kids is also on the agenda for the offseason.
Brazilian outfit Bahia have reached an agreement to sign Tottenham striker Alejo Veliz on a permanent deal, as confirmed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The move, worth €9 million (£7.8m) plus performance-related add-ons, marks a significant shift for the Argentine forward who arrived in North London with high expectations just three years ago.
The agreement was verbally finalised today with Bahia director Cadu Santoro.
Veliz, currently back in Argentina on loan, expressed a desire to complete his current spell with Rosario Central before moving to Brazil.
Consequently, his medical and formal signing are scheduled for June 2026.
“€9m fee plus add-ons, Véliz wanted to stay in Rosario until the end of his loan and then join Bahia.Medical to happen in June, deal verbally agreed with director Cadu Santoro today.”
??? Bahia agree deal to sign Alejo Véliz from Tottenham on permanent move, here we go!
€9m fee plus add-ons, Véliz wanted to stay in Rosario until the end of his loan and then join Bahia.
Medical to happen in June, deal verbally agreed with director Cadu Santoro today. pic.twitter.com/1pW9H3GVWF
Alejo Veliz failed to make it at Tottenham despite strong reputation
When Veliz joined Spurs for £13 million in August 2023, he was hailed as one of South America’s most “dynamite” young talents.
Standing at 6’2″ and possessing a physical, aerial presence, he was expected to provide a different dimension to the Tottenham attack.
However, his time in England was marred by a lack of opportunities and unfortunate timing.
He made just eight substitute appearances for the senior team, with his sole goal coming in a 4-2 defeat to Brighton.
Loan spells at Sevilla and Espanyol also failed to ignite his European career, as he struggled for consistent minutes in La Liga.
He is currently back in Argentina, playing for Rosario Central on loan from Spurs, and it appears that his time at the North London club has come to an end.
(Photo by Mateo Occhi/Getty Images)
Veliz career stats across all clubs
Despite his struggles in Europe, Veliz’s overall career numbers highlight why Bahia, backed by the City Football Group, are willing to invest in him.
He has consistently proven his worth in his homeland, recently surpassing a career milestone of 34 senior goals across his various stints.
Club
Apps
Goals
Assists
CA Rosario Central
82
25
3
RCD Espanyol
29
4
0
Tottenham Hotspur
8
1
0
Sevilla FC
6
0
0
CA Rosario Central II
5
3
0
Tottenham Hotspur U21
2
1
0
Total
132
34
3
Alejo Veliz’s career stats across various clubs via Transfermarkt
Leicester City’s survival hopes have been dealt a massive blow after the Premier League confirmed an immediate six-point deduction for the club.
The sanction, handed down by an independent Commission, relates to a breach of Profit and Sustainability Rules (P&S Rules) during the 2023/24 season.
The ruling follows a complex jurisdictional battle. After Leicester’s promotion to the top flight in 2024, the EFL’s investigation was transferred to the Premier League.
Despite legal challenges from the Foxes, including a claim that the rules breached competition law, the Commission determined that the club exceeded the permitted loss threshold by £20.8 million over a three-year assessment period.
(Photo by Jon Hobley/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Premier League statement after six points deduction confirmation
In an official statement, the Premier League revealed that the Commission rejected Leicester’s plea of “exceptional cooperation,” citing the club’s failure to provide annual accounts by the required deadline as a further rule breach.
While the Commission acknowledged the club’s “improving financial position” as a mitigating factor, the EFL Board has now ratified the recommendation.
As Leicester is currently competing in the Championship, the deduction has been applied to the current 2025/26 standings with immediate effect.
Leicester City in danger of relegation?
The timing of the points deduction could not be worse for the Foxes. Currently managed by an interim team following the recent sacking of Marti Cifuentes, the club has plummeted down the Championship table.
Position
Club
Played
Points
19
Norwich City
30
33
20
Leicester City
30
32*
21
West Brom
30
32
22
Blackburn Rovers
29
29
*> Reflects 6-point deduction
The deduction leaves Leicester in 20th place, hovering just three points above the relegation zone.
With back-to-back relegations now a distinct possibility, the club described the sanction as “disproportionate” and is currently considering an appeal.
Double standards highlighted as Man City yet to be charged
While the Foxes have been sanctioned for a single-period breach, the investigation into City’s alleged historical financial irregularities (stretching from 2009 to 2018) remains unresolved.
Critics argue that the current system punishes mid-sized clubs while the “Big Six” benefit from protracted legal timelines.
With a verdict on Manchester City’s case not expected until late 2026 or even 2027, the perceived “double standard” in English football’s financial policing has never been more apparent.
Stam urges Manchester United to snub Michael Carrick for Roberto De Zerbi
He said (via The Mirror): “I like De Zerbi very much, you know, because of how he performed at Brighton and also now in Marseille.
“How he’s playing with his teams, because he plays possession-based football, he’s very good on the ball. He also sets the players in certain positions that it makes it really difficult for the opposition to press them.
“You know, he’s going forward, he attacks. Scores a lot of goals, sometimes concedes, but you know that as a manager.
“But I think he’s also a good man-manager. I think he’s also good with the players and giving them the confidence, giving them the attention they need – and not only the starting XI, but also the other players within the squad.
“And that’s what you need in a big club like that. So I would be very happy if they don’t go for Carrick, and that they go for him.”
(Photo by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images)
Roberto De Zerbi has made a name for himself in European football
De Zerbi’s reputation has skyrocketed since his time in the Premier League, where he led Brighton to European qualification for the first time in their history.
Stam highlighted the Italian’s ability to manage big personalities and squads, a leadership skill required to manage a club like Man United.
Club
Matches
W
D
L
ø-Goals
PPM
Marseille
68
39
8
21
2.35 : 1.38
1.84
Brighton
89
38
20
31
1.81 : 1.56
1.51
Roberto De Zerbi’s manerail stats for Marseille and Brighton via Transfermarkt
He is highly rated and loved by his players, both current and former. In fact, Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has even rated him above Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot.
Speaking on the Rest is Football podcast, he said about De Zerbi: “He’s a crazy guy, but I love him. I think he’s the best manager I’ve ever had.”
Host Gary Lineker asked: “Really? Wow! You’ve got Slot and Klopp in there.”
Mac Allister replied: “I had a couple of conversations with Slot about De Zerbi as well, because he really likes the idea. Then I have coaches like (Gabriel) Heinze as well in Argentina. So I have very good coaches.”
Michael Carrick is making a strong case for a permanent role
While Stam looks elsewhere, Carrick is doing everything right on the pitch.
Since taking the reins, he has scrapped the rigid tactical systems of his predecessors and restored a sense of harmony to the dressing room.
Under his guidance, United have a 100% win record and have climbed back into the top-four race.
Fixture
Result
Outcome
Manchester United vs Manchester City
2–0
Win
Arsenal vs Manchester United
2–3
Win
Manchester United vs Fulham
3–2
Win
With a crucial home fixture against Tottenham looming, the clamor for Carrick to stay is growing, but the debate between a “club man” and an established European tactician like De Zerbi remains the central question for the United hierarchy.
West Ham United attacker Crysencio Summerville has impressed in recent weeks, and he could be handed the opportunity to impress with his country.
According to reports, when Leeds United sold the player to West Ham, they inserted a clause into his contract that would see them pocket around £4 million if he gained international recognition during his time at the London club.
According to Suleyman Ozturk on Soccernews.NL, the player could get opportunities with the Netherlands national team during the international break in March. It will be interesting to see if he can impress during that time and cement a place in the national team set-up.
“He now gets such a return and high level… I think he plays so well at West Ham now,” Ozturk told SoccerNews.nl. “He is specifically a type of Noa Lang, a dribbler who can create something. With four goals and two assists in his last five games, Summerville is in top form at West Ham.
“That boy, I think, has the ambition to join the Orange. I think he’s in shape just the right time, so he has a chance to go to the World Cup. He can be the big surprise in the selection you didn’t expect six months ago.”
Crysencio Summerville in action for West Ham United (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
There is no doubt that he’s a technically gifted player with a lot of potential. West Ham United will be delighted with his performances in recent weeks, and the player will look to prove himself at the international level now. This is a golden opportunity for him to cement his place in the Netherlands’ World Cup squad.
The money from the clause will also benefit Leeds. The Whites are currently fighting for survival in the Premier League. It will be interesting to see if they can secure safety in the coming months. They have quality players at their disposal, and if they can add some consistency to their performances, there is no reason why they cannot stay up.
Tottenham manager Thomas Frank is under a lot of pressure after a disappointing first half of the season.
There have been rumours that he could be shown the door soon if the results do not improve dramatically. However, the recent performance against Manchester City shows that the players retain their faith in the manager and are willing to fight for him. Tottenham were 2-0 down, but they battled hard to secure a 2-2 draw.
Thomas Frank has the backing of his players
Keith Wyness believes Frank has not lost the dressing room yet and that there is hope for him. He is a quality manager who has demonstrated his Pedigree at Brentford. It will be interesting to see if he can silence the doubters at Tottenham and prove his quality.
He told Football Insider: “I don’t think they’re out of getting a European place by any means yet. I think they could still challenge for that and that would be acceptable, I think, to the Spurs fans, and they see some growth coming back.
“But Frank got that second half out of them and that did surprise me. I mean, like everybody, I was writing them off at 2-0 down, but the comeback certainly showed me that the players are still playing for Frank, and so I think, look, it’ll settle down at Spurs. We’ve got to, I hate using the excuse of injuries, but in this case, it is such a long list.”
Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank gestures on the touchline during the Premier League match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London. (Photo by John Walton/PA Images via Getty Images)
A club of their stature should regularly push for Champions League qualification and do well in domestic competitions. Instead, Tottenham are in the mid-table positions. It remains to be seen whether they can get the season back on track over the next few weeks.
They have had multiple injury problems, and that has contributed to their struggles. Frank will certainly hope that his key players can return to action quickly and help him salvage the season.
According to Football Insider, Everton are prepared to sell him for £20 million, and the player will be seeking a new destination in the summer. It remains to be seen whether he can convince the manager to give him more opportunities before the end of the season. He has shown his quality in the top flight before, and he could be a useful player for Everton until the end of the season.
“I was surprised to see that deal hadn’t gone through,” Mick Brown told Football Insider.
“It looked like he was on his way to Palace, the deal was agreed with Everton and he’d done a medical, but they pulled out of it for whatever reason.
“These things happen in football and I expect Palace will have their reasons for their decision.
“McNeil now will have to be looking for other opportunities, because Everton were obviously prepared to let him go because he’s not part of the plans.
“If that’s the case now, it’ll be the case in the summer and I expect they’ll be looking to move him on.
“Whether Palace come back in for him, I highly doubt it because as I say they had their reasons for pulling out, but there will be other clubs interested.”
Dwight McNeil of Everton is challenged by Max Kilman of Wolverhampton Wanderers. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
The winger is at the peak of his career, and sitting on the bench at Everton will be disappointing for him. It remains to be seen whether he can work hard in training and convince the manager that he can help the team.
Ever are pushing for a respectable finish in the Premier League this season, and they could use all the resources at their disposal. There is no doubt that McNeil could be a handy option for them in the attack, especially if they need to turn games in their favour late on.
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has slammed Arsenal for showing what he felt was a lack of respect ahead of their Carabao Cup semi-final this week.
Arsenal beat Chelsea 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium to complete a 4-2 aggregate victory over Rosenior’s side and book their place in the Carabao Cup final.
Still, as well as the action on the pitch, there was an intriguing moment before the game when Rosenior could be seen shouting at someone off-screen about moving into their own half.
It has now emerged that Rosenior was not happy with Arsenal’s pre-match preparations as he felt they encroached onto Chelsea’s side of the pitch and didn’t show respect.
Liam Rosenior hits out at disrespectful Arsenal antics
Arsenal and Chelsea in action in the Carabao Cup semi-final (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
When asked about the incident at his press conference today, as quoted by BBC Sport, Rosenior explained why he was unhappy with the Gunners.
“It wasn’t the players. When you warm up, we have our half and the other team have their half. I’ve never asked my team or coaches to encroach on the other team’s territory. I thought they were affecting our warm up,” Rosenior said.
“I asked them, maybe not politely, to move away. I’m not here to have mind games. There are certain etiquettes in football. I don’t have an issue with anyone at Arsenal Football Club. It was just in that moment, I don’t think that respect was shown to my team.”
Arsenal dent strong Liam Rosenior start at Chelsea
It perhaps makes sense that the 41-year-old was frustrated by Arsenal, but it also sounds slightly like he’s making something out of nothing here.
Only time will tell if this proves to be Rosenior playing the media game cleverly, or if it’s an unforced error that comes across as a bit of a tantrum.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Arsenal are keeping tabs on his situation and they are interested in signing him. Meanwhile, other Premier League top clubs are also monitoring his situation. The Italian has been exceptional since joining Newcastle, and he could be an excellent addition for most teams in the country.
Arsenal already have quality players like Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi. It will be interesting to see how they accommodate Tonali in the starting lineup if they end up signing him.
Romano said on his YouTube channel: “In the summer, keep an eye on Tonali. We will tell you more soon, but there is Juventus interested, there are Premier League top clubs interested, so I am sure for Tonali, the summer is going to be busy, very busy.
“With Arsenal, because Arsenal, and this is important, I told you also yesterday, Arsenal are interested in the player. Arsenal are considering Sandro Tonali, but there are more clubs, in England and on Italy with Juventus.
“So, nothing at the moment, concrete, also because, as his agent said, we have to see Newcastle’s position, we have to respect Newcastle in this story. So, let’s see around end of February, March, April when agents and Newcastle will meet to discuss what Newcastle will decide to do.”
Tonali is likely to be tempted. If a top team like Arsenal comes calling. They could provide him with the platform to regularly fight for major trophies. Newcastle have an ambitious project, but they are not quite at that level yet.
Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has been linked with a move to Real Madrid in recent months, and the Spanish club is prepared to secure his signature.
According to a report from Fichajes, they believe the 26-year-old international could help them tighten up at the back. They value his defensive quality and physicality. However, they will only proceed with a move if the player is willing to accept reasonable wages.
Real Madrid eye Ibrahima Konate
The report confirms that Real Madrid wants the player to understand that their wage structure is non-negotiable and they are not willing to pay a premium for him.
It will be interesting to see whether the 26-year-old defender is willing to accept modest wages to secure a move to a La Liga club. He is now eligible to secure a pre-contract agreement with the Spanish club.
Liverpool have been trying to reach an agreement with the defender on an extension for months, but they have not been able to convince him. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. His departure would be a blow for Liverpool. He has been a key player for them since joining the club from RB Leipzig.
Ibrahima Konate in action for Liverpool (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
The defender is at the peak of his career, and losing him for free would be a huge blow. Even though Liverpool have signed Jeremy Jacquet, they should do everything in their power to keep Konate at the club. Virgil van Dijk is in his 30s, and Liverpool need to plan for the future. Konate could be the next defensive leader at the club.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid have looked vulnerable at the back this season, and they need to improve there if they want to win major trophies again. The Liverpool star could certainly help them improve their defensive performance.
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton will be a player in demand during the summer transfer window.
Manchester United and Liverpool are interested in signing the 21-year-old central midfielder, and they have already begun preliminary talks to sign him. According to Fichajes, the London club has reportedly set a €95 million (£83m) price tag on the midfielder, and it remains to be seen whether Liverpool or Manchester United are prepared to pay it.
Liverpool and Man United need Adam Wharton
It is no secret that they need more control and defensive cover in the middle of the park. Liverpool needs someone who can control the tempo of the game and protect the back. They have been using Ryan Gravenberch as a defensive midfielder, but the Netherlands International is more suited to an advanced role. Signing the Crystal Palace star would allow the Dutchman to operate in his natural role.
At Manchester United, he could be the ideal long-term replacement for Casemiro, who will leave the club in the summer. Both clubs have the resources to pay the asking price, and it remains to be seen where he will end up.
Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace reacts after the defeat to Sunderland (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are monitoring his situation as well. They are in desperate need of more quality in the middle of the park. They have not been able to dominate midfield contests like they used to, since the departures of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos. The 21-year-old Crystal Palace star could be a solid long-term acquisition.
All three clubs could be exciting destinations for the young midfielder, and it remains to be seen where he ends up. He will be hoping to join an exciting project where he will play regularly and fight for trophies consistently.
Rodrigo Mendoza completed a move to Atletico Madrid in January, and he is already being linked with another transfer.
According to a report from Fichajes, Chelsea are keeping tabs on his situation, and they could look to make a move for him next summer. The Blues are aware that he is likely to cost a premium, but they are monitoring his development.
It remains to be seen whether Mendoza can make a defining impact at Atletico Madrid. The Spanish club will not want to lose him soon after securing his signature. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
Chelsea are looking to add more quality and depth in the middle of the park. They believe that Mendoza would be ideal for them because of his ability to read the game, his physicality, creativity, and intelligence. Mendoza has been likened to Barcelona star Pedri.
The 20-year-old will now look to prove his quality at a top club like Atletico Madrid. It is unlikely that he will be distracted by the links with Chelsea. Any transfer might have to wait.
Rodrigo Mendoza in action for Elche (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
Mendoza was excellent during his time at Elche, and it will be interesting to see if he can make a similar impact under Diego Simeone. He is a talented young player with a bright future, and it is normal for clubs like Chelsea to monitor his progress. It remains to be seen whether they decide to follow up on their interest with an official proposal at the end of the season.
They would have to make a mind-boggling offer to convince Atletico Madrid to sell a player they signed only recently.
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has revealed that Blues winger Jamie Gittens is out for the long term with a torn hamstring.
Speaking at his press conference today, Rosenior admitted it’s a “real shame” to lose Gittens, as he feels he is an “outstanding player”, even though he hasn’t worked with him for long.
Watch below as Rosenior is asked about injuries, and Gittens in particular, explaining that the 21-year-old will be out for the long term, though he could not specify for now how long that would be…
"Jamie [Gittens] is looking a little bit more long term"
“Jamie is looking a little bit more long term,” Rosenior said when asked about Gittens.
“It’s a real shame for him, he’s got a tear in his hamstring.
“Obviously I’ve not worked with him for too long, obviously I’ve known about his career and what an outstanding player he is, so that’s going to be a big miss for us.”
Jamie Gittens dealt another blow after slow start at Chelsea
Gittens finished last season with a total of 12 goals in all competitions, and looked like one of Dortmund’s best players in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League.
It will be interesting to see if Gittens can recover from this injury blow to work his way back into contention in Rosenior’s side, but it won’t be easy due to the huge amount of competition in this squad.
Leon Goretzka has been linked with a move away from Bayern Munich, and he could be on his way to the Premier League.
According to a report from Fussball Daten, Arsenal and Manchester United are closely monitoring his situation and have held initial talks with his representatives about a potential move.
The €250k-a-week star will be out of contract in the summer, and signing him for free would be a masterstroke. Both clubs could use physicality and defensive steel in the middle of the park. The 30-year-old has the quality and the experience to play for an elite club, and he could make an immediate impact.
At Arsenal, he could prove to be a major upgrade on someone like Christian Norgaard. He knows what it takes to play for big clubs and fight for trophies regularly. Arsenal could use his quality, experience, and leadership skills.
On the other hand, Manchester United need an experienced head like him in the middle of the park, especially after Casemiro’s departure. It will be interesting to see which of the two clubs can get the deal done.
At 30, this could be his final opportunity to join an elite club, and the Germany international will be attracted to the idea of playing for Arsenal or Manchester United. They are among the biggest clubs in the world. He has the skill set to succeed in the Premier League, and he could be tempted to make the move.
Whoever ends up signing the German International could have a real asset on their hands for a nominal investment. He has been hailed as an “absolute top player” in the past. He will look to hit the ground running in the Premier League if a move goes through.
Julian Alvarez continues to be linked with a return to the Premier League.
Arsenal and Chelsea are interested in signing the 26-year-old South American, and they could compete with Barcelona for his signature in the summer. According to a report from SPORT, the player will cost over €100 million, and the two London clubs are pushing hard to secure his signature.
The striker’s agent recently travelled to the United Kingdom, and it is unclear whether he held talks with Arsenal or Chelsea. It seems that the two clubs are prepared to break the Bank for him.
Alvarez has been one of the best strikers in the world since his move to Atletico Madrid. He has been scoring goals consistently, and there is no doubt that he would be an exceptional addition for either club. Arsenal have invested heavily in Viktor Gyokeres, but the Swedish International has not been able to find the back of the net regularly. They will need an upgrade on him if they want to win major trophies regularly.
Similarly, Chelsea invested in Liam Delap and Joao Pedro at the start of the season. Both players have failed to consistently find the back of the net. It remains to be seen which of the two clubs can sign the former Manchester City striker.
Alvarez is a complete forward and more than just a goal scorer. He will add creativity to the side as well. Furthermore, he is excellent when it comes to taking free kicks, and he could add a new dimension to the Arsenal or Chelsea attack.
The asking price is quite high, but the two Premier League clubs have the resources to pay it.
The 2022 World Cup winner has 16 goal contributions this season, and he is a proven performer at the elite level. He could make an immediate impact in the Premier League. If the move goes through.
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino may be a doubt for the rest of the club season and perhaps even the 2026 World Cup in the summer due to a mysterious injury.
Gunners manager Mikel Arteta explained that Merino’s injury is a rare one, so there’s not a clear idea of when the Spain international will be back to fitness, though for the time being it is being treated as pretty serious.
Numerous outlets have reported that Merino is almost certainly out for the rest of the season, meaning he’ll miss the title run-in with Arsenal, while his participation at the World Cup could also be in doubt.
This will be a blow for fans of the Spanish national team as they start making their own preparations for the tournament and looking into how to buy Spain World Cup tickets as their country aims to lift the trophy this summer.
What Mikel Arteta has said about Mikel Merino’s injury
Describing it as a “big blow”, Arteta said: “He (Merino) needs to go through a procedure, which is not always positive. He’s a big player for us, a player that has such versatility and capacity to compete in various positions, and that’s a big blow.
Mikel Merino applauds the Arsenal fans (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
“It’s a very rare injury so we have to wait and see once we have the surgery, how that reacts daily, obviously monitor it throughout the week for the surgery and see.
“I know Mikel is going to do absolutely everything that he possibly can to come back as quick as possible. But as well you have to respect the healing process and the fact that obviously it’s an injury that is quite rare.”
Mikel Merino will be missed by Arsenal and Spain
Anyone who’s watched him closely will surely agree that Merino is one of the most underrated footballers in today’s game.
The 29-year-old has put in a series of superb displays whether playing in midfield or as a makeshift striker for Arsenal, and he has a surprisingly good scoring record.
With 15 goals in 77 appearances for Arsenal, and eight goals in his last ten games for Spain, Merino has shown how valuable he can be as he really starts to establish himself quite late on in his career.
Spain have fellow Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi as another key part of their midfield, as well as other big names like Manchester City’s Rodri and Barcelona’s Pedri, so they certainly aren’t short of other quality options in that area of the pitch.
At the same time, however, Merino offers some unique qualities that a lot of others can’t, and Arsenal fans will have to hope he can perhaps return earlier than expected, and that his absence doesn’t prove too costly as they compete for the Premier League and Carabao Cup in the months to come.
Manchester United are reportedly alongside other big clubs like Liverpool, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich in eyeing up Barcelona defender Jules Kounde.
The France international has mostly been a key player for Barca down the years, but it seems the club are now less sure about keeping him.
According to Fichajes, Kounde could be available for around €80m this summer, with Premier League clubs on alert due to his versatility as one of his most appealing attributes.
Jules Kounde transfer interest hotting up after change to Barcelona situation
Fichajes claim there is great debate internally at Barcelona about Kounde’s future, with his recent form leaving the club increasingly open to letting him go if the money is right.
Jules Kounde in action for Barcelona (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
The former Sevilla player can still be a top performer on his day, but there are perhaps some signs of his decline, and that could mean now is a good time to try cashing in.
Liverpool could do well to pounce on the situation as they’re a bit short in defence right now after injuries to right-backs Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong.
The Reds also need to think about central defence as Ibrahima Konate comes towards the end of his contract, while Virgil van Dijk is not getting any younger.
Man United surely need Jules Kounde
Meanwhile, United have long looked in need of an upgrade on Diogo Dalot at right-back, and it’s surprising this hasn’t happened yet.
Still, if Kounde is on the market then perhaps this will be the moment they make a move.
The Red Devils could probably also do with more depth in the centre of their defence as it’s not yet clear what will be happening with Harry Maguire, who is out of contract at the end of this season.
Atletico Madrid are reportedly eyeing up a potential transfer swoop for Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus for the summer.
The Brazil international is being monitored and considered by Atletico, according to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, in news that will surely excite a fair few Gunners supporters.
Jesus has performed well for Arsenal since returning from injury, but in general the feeling at the Emirates Stadium is that they surely need a new striker this summer.
Julian Alvarez to Arsenal with Gabriel Jesus moving in the opposite direction?
Gabriel Jesus celebrates scoring for Arsenal against Leeds United (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Swap deals are not that common in football, but if Atletico really are keen on Jesus, then it seems like a no-brainer for Arsenal to try to reach an agreement with them involving Alvarez.
The Argentina international is not in the best form right now, but in general he’s been hugely impressive in recent years, both in Madrid and during his time at Manchester City.
Despite not being a regular starter at Man City, Alvarez scored 36 goals in two seasons at the Etihad Stadium, and has a further 40 goals in 88 games in Spain.
Julian Alvarez celebrates scoring for Atletico Madrid (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
AFC probably can’t rely on Jesus for much longer due to his poor injury record, so if they could use him to tempt Atletico into doing business that could be a big win for them.
Could Arsenal succeed in swap deal with Atletico Madrid?
It remains to be seen how this will all pan out, but if Atletico want a signing up front, then perhaps they could also look at other Arsenal players like Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz, and Leandro Trossard.
There are surely a few players there who’d be tempting for Diego Simeone even if Jesus ends up being deemed too risky due to his poor recent fitness record.
Newcastle United have asked about the availability of striker Dusan Vlahovic, according to Calciomercato.
The Magpies, along with Chelsea, are exploring a move for Vlahovic who is set to become a free agent at the end of the season.
After his contract talks stalling at Juventus and his contract expiring at the end of the season, Vlahovic could leave Juventus as a free agent and that has alerted several top clubs who are now joining the race to sign him.
The Serbian attacker earns £200,000 a week at Juventus and the Italian giants have been unable to agree a new deal with him.
Newcastle United face competition to sign Vlahovic
AC Milan are the other club interest in the Serie A striker which means Newcastle United and Chelsea would have intense competition to sign the former Fiorentina star.
Eddie Howe has depth in the attacking department with strikers like Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa at the club.
The Premier League side spent heavily on bringing them to St. James’ Park last summer after the departure of Alexander Isak to Liverpool.
The fact that Vlahovic is available as a free agent is a bargain option that many clubs are considering.
Milan might still hold advantage as they offer him the continuity he may need and a familiar environment in the Serie A but if the Juve star wants a new challenge in his career, Newcastle United and Chelsea would love to welcome him with open arms.
Manchester United’s interim manager Michael Carrick will have “very good chances” of landing the job permanently if this strong start continues.
That’s according to Fabrizio Romano on YouTube, with the journalist explaining that there’s no final decision yet on the Man Utd manager position.
Still, Carrick has made a terrific start, winning three out of three since taking over in an interim role until the end of the season.
The 44-year-old former Red Devils midfielder has earned impressive wins over Manchester City and Arsenal in that time, and it seems Romano is not ruling him out getting the job beyond this season.
Fabrizio Romano on Michael Carrick’s chances of being Manchester United manager permanently
“In the summer we will see obviously, if Carrick will continue like this he will have very good chances, but this will be decided by the club later on, not now,” Romano said.
Michael Carrick celebrates after Manchester United’s win over Fulham at Old Trafford (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Romano has established himself as one of the most reliable journalists when it comes to transfers and reporting on managerial changes, so fans will undoubtedly be interested to see that he’s not ruling Carrick out of the running for the permanent job.
MUFC probably need to go for someone more proven and experienced, but it’s also looking like being increasingly hard for them to ignore the impact Carrick has had.
Should Michael Carrick be next Manchester United manager?
Carrick did an impressive job during a spell in charge of Championship club Middlesbrough, and one imagines he has it in him to coach in the Premier League.
It’s probably too early to know for sure if he has what it takes to manage a big name like United, but he’s done his chances no harm with a fantastic start.
Many United fans will also surely be rooting for him as he’s one of their best players from the Sir Alex Ferguson era, and someone who understands a lot about what it takes to succeed at this club.
Wolverhampton Wanderers have reportedly agreed to sell Jhon Arias back to Brazil, accepting a £21 million offer from Palmeiras despite the English transfer window already being closed.
According to GE Globo, this represents a rapid turnaround for a player who arrived in the Premier League with considerable expectations just months ago.
Arias joined Wolves last summer from Fluminense in a deal worth around £15 million, following a string of eye-catching performances at the FIFA Club World Cup.
His energy, creativity, and ability to influence matches had convinced Wolves that he could add a new dimension to their attacking play. However, the transition to English football has proved challenging.
Arias struggled to settle at Wolves
The 28-year-old has found it difficult to establish himself under head coach Rob Edwards, scoring just once in 23 Premier League appearances.
While his work rate and tactical flexibility have been appreciated, Arias has struggled to deliver consistent end product in the final third, a key reason Wolves initially moved for him.
In recent weeks, Edwards has increasingly deployed Arias in a deeper, box-to-box midfield role rather than as a forward, a tactical shift that further limited his attacking influence.
Jhon Arias of Wolverhampton Wanderers (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
From Wolves’ perspective, the decision to accept Palmeiras’ offer is grounded in pragmatism.
Recouping £21 million, significantly more than the initial outlay, provides financial flexibility at a time when the club are reshaping their squad.
Although the Premier League window is closed, the Brazilian transfer window remains open until March 3, creating a narrow but valuable opportunity to conclude the deal.
Arias is already in negotiations over personal terms, and sources in Brazil expect the move to be formalised shortly.
A return home would place him in a familiar environment where his qualities are well understood and his confidence could be quickly restored.
Those funds were partly reinvested in reinforcements, with Adam Armstrong arriving, alongside the loan signing of Angel Gomes from Olympique de Marseille.
However, the Daily Mirror now report that this request has been rejected by the EFL, leaving City without an important player for the March 22nd clash against the Gunners.
Pep Guardiola on Marc Guehi playing the Carabao Cup final
Speaking after the semi-final victory over Newcastle United last night, Guardiola made it clear he could not understand why Guehi was not allowed to play.
“Hopefully we can convince the Carabao Cup that Marc can play the final. I don’t understand why he cannot play the final.
“You buy a player for a lot of money and he is not able to play for a rule I don’t understand. Hopefully they can change it.”
Marc Guehi in action for Man City vs Tottenham (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
He added: “I said to the club, they have to ask, definitely. I don’t understand the reason why he cannot play in the final in March, when I have been here for a long time.
“The rules to buy a player depends on Fifa, Uefa, the Premier League who say, OK the transfer window is open, when you buy a player you have to play, no? It’s logic. Of course we are going to try to ask [for] him to play. Pure logic.”
Early boost for Arsenal in Carabao Cup final
Even if it was never particularly likely that Guehi would be allowed to play, this is a bit of a boost for Arsenal as they prepare to take on City at Wembley next month.
Mikel Arteta’s side are desperate to end their six-year wait for a trophy, and it won’t be easy defeating this City side, even if they’ve not been at their best this season.
Any boost they can get will be welcome, with City suffering some injuries in defence in recent times that could prove costly in a big game like this.
That’s why Guehi was signed from Crystal Palace this January, and Guardiola will no doubt be furious that he can’t use the England international in what is sure to be one of his team’s most important games all season.
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Beşiktaş have moved decisively to secure the signing of Emmanuel Agbadou, with the Turkish giants tabling an offer in the region of £16 million for the Wolverhampton Wanderers centre-back.
Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri has reported the story and it signals a rapid turnaround for a player who only arrived in the Premier League a year ago.
For Wolverhampton Wanderers, the January transfer window was one of adjustment rather than continuity.
After a difficult start to the league campaign, Wolves streamlined their squad, sanctioning several departures.
While Jørgen Strand Larsen was the only player to leave on a permanent deal earlier in the window, a number of others departed on loan, reshaping the depth of the squad.
At the same time, Wolves sought to rebalance by bringing in fresh options, adding Adam Armstrong and Angel Gomes to provide attacking and creative support.
Against that backdrop, Agbadou’s imminent departure may come as a surprise.
Wolves defender expected to start new chapter in Turkey
Agbadou joined Wolves from Stade de Reims in January 2025 for a reported €20 million.
Despite the club’s struggles, the 28-year-old quickly established himself as a dependable presence when available, making 14 league appearances this season.
His campaign was interrupted by international duty with Ivory Coast national football team at the Africa Cup of Nations, but his performances did enough to attract attention abroad.
That interest has now crystallised in Turkey. Wolves and Beşiktaş are understood to have agreed a fee of approximately €18 million, allowing the Black Eagles to move quickly.
Agbadou has already reached personal terms and is expected to sign a contract running until 2030.
Beşiktaş step up interest in the Premier League defender
Emmanuel Agbadou of Wolverhampton Wanderers (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Beşiktaş have identified defensive solidity as a priority for the second half of the season, and Agbadou’s physicality, aerial presence, and experience at international level make him an appealing solution.
Sources in Turkey suggest the defender was eager for the move, attracted by the prospect of a central role in Istanbul and the opportunity to compete for honours.
For Beşiktaş, it is a statement signing aimed at strengthening a vulnerable back line with immediate effect.
This comes just a few weeks after Liam Rosenior’s appointment to replace Enzo Maresca, though it isn’t entirely clear if Hazard is pushing for this to happen now.
Still, speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Belgian made it clear how big a fan he is of Fabregas after seeing his work with Serie A side Como.
The Spaniard, who played alongside Hazard at Chelsea, is becoming widely regarded as one of the most promising young coaches in the game, so it makes sense that a big move could be on the cards sooner or later.
Eden Hazard wants Cesc Fabregas as Chelsea manager
Discussing Fabregas’ work at Como, Hazard says he’s already urged him to come back to Stamford Bridge.
Eden Hazard and Cesc Fabregas (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos, Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I’ll be honest, in the summer we talked a bit. I told him he was one of the best midfielders in history and that he’s destined to become one of the best coaches as well,” Hazard said.
“I explained to him that the time has come for him to return to Chelsea, and he joked about it, but I really believe it. He loves football and knows everything about this sport.
“I’m a Chelsea fan, and I want the best for the club. That’s why I dream of seeing Cesc on their bench, while I’ll be staying in the stands behind him, enjoying the show.”
Could Cesc Fabregas replace Liam Rosenior?
Even though Rosenior hasn’t been in the job long, we know that Chelsea change managers pretty quickly.
The west London giants have already been through Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino, and Enzo Maresca under these owners, so Rosenior might not get that much time to impress.
It seems Hazard is already making it clear he’d welcome Fabregas back to CFC even if it meant replacing Rosenior, though he didn’t say that explicitly.
Still, Hazard’s comments hint at that, with the pair clearly already discussing this in recent times, and with Hazard stating clearly that he still views the 38-year-old as ideal for the job.
The England international had fallen completely out of favour under Amorim, who was sacked by Man Utd last month after poor results and performances.
However, Mainoo is now back in the starting line up under interim manager Michael Carrick, and performing very well again, showing how important he can be for the Red Devils.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano explained that Mainoo really could have left if Amorim had stayed, but not because he wanted out of United for any reason other than the fact that he wasn’t playing.
Kobbie Mainoo update from Fabrizio Romano
Kobbie Mainoo in action for Manchester United against Arsenal (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Although Mainoo was unhappy at falling down the pecking order at Old Trafford, he only wanted to leave on loan to boost his playing time, according to Romano.
“Don’t forget the big change around Kobbie Mainoo in the recent weeks with Ruben Amorim. He was probably going to leave the club,” Romano said.
“And let me mention once again, Kobe Mayo never wanted to leave Man United. Kobbie Mainoo only wanted to play football. So Kobbie was not asking, ‘I don’t like Man United. I don’t love Man United. I want to go. I want another project.’ No, Kobbie only wanted to play football, which is something normal for a football player, especially when you are so young.
So Kobbie was prepared to go on loan, not on a permanent transfer because he loves Man United. He loves the club. He’s a Man United boy. But let me mention to you that Kobbie Mainoo is now a crucial player for Michael Carrick.”
Kobbie Mainoo happy at Manchester United
As we’ve recently reported, Mainoo is happy at United now despite having previously attracted interest from the likes of Napoli and Chelsea.
The 20-year-old now looks like he can become a key player for MUFC after initially making his breakthrough under Erik ten Hag.
Things went downhill for him under Amorim, but Carrick now looks to be reviving his career, which will no doubt go down well with fans who like seeing homegrown talents coming through.
Raheem Sterling’s next career move is beginning to take shape, with Napoli emerging as a serious option following the winger’s recent departure from Chelsea.
According to reports from The Sun, discussions are already taking place between the Serie A club and the England international, who is keen on the idea of restarting his career abroad, and potentially reuniting with close friend Kevin De Bruyne.
Sterling, now 31, became a free agent last week after his Chelsea contract was terminated by mutual consent, bringing an underwhelming chapter at Stamford Bridge to an early end.
While his spell in west London never fully delivered on expectations, the winger remains highly motivated to prove he can still perform at the top level.
Sources suggest he is open to a reduced salary if it allows him to secure a fresh start in a new league.
Sporting director Giovanni Manna publicly acknowledged at the time that Sterling’s wage demands were a major obstacle, effectively closing the door on a deal.
That situation has now shifted. As a free agent, Sterling represents a far more realistic opportunity for Napoli, particularly if his willingness to accept lower terms proves genuine.
With no transfer fee involved, the club’s focus is now on structuring a package that balances experience with financial sustainability.
Sterling wants to reunite with former teammate De Bruyne
Raheem Sterling during his time at Chelsea (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
From a sporting perspective, Sterling offers qualities Napoli currently lack in wide areas, pace, directness, and a proven ability to perform in high-pressure environments.
His experience at elite clubs such as Manchester City and Chelsea would add leadership to a squad undergoing transition.
The presence of Kevin De Bruyne also adds an emotional factor to the story.
The pair formed a strong bond during their time at City, winning multiple trophies together.
Reuniting with a trusted teammate could help Sterling settle quickly and rediscover confidence after a challenging period.
While negotiations are still at an early stage, the conditions for a deal appear more favourable than ever.
Arsenal’s long-term recruitment strategy has once again taken them to South America, with reports from Brazil linking the club to highly rated Palmeiras teenager Eduardo Conceição.
According to UOL, Arsenal are interested in a move for the youngster who has received attention from some of the biggest clubs in the world.
The Gunners have increasingly focused on identifying elite potential early, casting their net well beyond Europe to secure future first-team options before competition intensifies.
South America, in particular, has become a key area of interest, with Arsenal keen to replicate the success other top clubs have enjoyed by investing in emerging talent at source.
Arsenal reportedly held talks to sign Conceição
Arsenal were the first English club to make formal contact regarding Conceição, carrying out initial checks to better understand his contractual situation and long-term plans.
Those exploratory steps reportedly progressed quickly, with a meeting taking place in London between the player’s representatives and Arsenal officials.
While no deal is close at this stage, the discussions are said to have clearly demonstrated Arsenal’s strong interest.
Such early engagement is consistent with the club’s recent recruitment philosophy, which prioritises building relationships and gaining clarity long before any transfer window pressure comes into play.
Conceição is regarded as one of Palmeiras’ most promising academy products. Despite his young age, he has already been competing above his natural age group, a marker often used by Brazilian clubs to identify elite-level potential.
He featured in the Brasileirão Sub-17 competition at just 15 and later impressed in the prestigious Copinha tournament aged 16, a pathway previously followed by several Brazilian stars.
Palmeiras are well aware of the growing attention surrounding their prospect.
As highlighted by Sport Witness, Conceição recently signed a new contract containing a €100 million release clause, with the club retaining 80 percent of his economic rights.
Feature
Detail
Full Name
Eduardo Conceição Silva
Age
16 (Born Dec 7, 2009)
Club
SE Palmeiras (U20)
Position
Winger (Left/Right) / Forward
Height
1.80m (5ft 11in)
Strong Foot
Right
Contract
Valid until Dec 2029
Release Clause
€100 Million
Club president Leila Pereira is said to believe Conceição could eventually follow the path of recent blockbuster departures, such as Endrick, now at Real Madrid, and Estêvão, who joined Chelsea.
Arsenal are far from alone. Several Premier League heavyweights, including Liverpool, Manchester City, and Newcastle United, are also closely monitoring Conceição’s development.
That growing list of suitors could significantly complicate any future negotiations.
Ronaldo was notably absent from Al Nassr’s last match, in an act of protest against the Public Investment Fund, which directly controls Saudi Arabia’s major clubs.
The striker, who is used to having his own way, feels that PIF’s decision-making is not in his favour, according to ESPN. Now, with the situation at boiling point, it seems unlikely that he’ll complete the remaining 18 months of his £488,000-per-day agreement with the Saudi club.
The final straw for Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo in action for Al Nassr (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Ronaldo’s refusal to play in the latest match was triggered by Karim Benzema’s transfer from Al Ittihad and Al Hilal, a shift which greatly strengthens Al Nassr’s biggest rival. According to sources close to the star, Ronaldo feels that his club is taking a backseat in the eyes of the PIF.
In his view, he is being exploited, while other teams receive unfair favouritism. His decision not to play is a dramatic declaration of intent. He is leveraging his huge public persona to force changes in the Saudi league. If he can’t do that, his exit seems inevitable.
Cristiano Ronaldo transfer back to Man United looks unlikely
Following this intense scrutiny, it’s no surprise that fans are wondering whether we’ll see Ronaldo back at the club where he made his name.
But his former colleague, Wes Brown, says no. The ex-Manchester United centre back told BettingLounge: “He’s not happy, but would Cristiano Ronaldo come back to Manchester United for a third go? I would say no. I can’t see how that could happen.”
Kai Havertz could find himself at the centre of another major transfer discussion this summer, with Bayern Munich reportedly monitoring the Arsenal forward’s situation closely.
According to Fichajes, the German champions are considering a move to bring Havertz back to the Bundesliga, sensing an opportunity as his role at the Emirates Stadium becomes less clearly defined.
Bayern’s interest is not new. Havertz has long been admired in Germany following his breakthrough years at Bayer Leverkusen, where his intelligence, technique, and versatility marked him out as one of Europe’s most exciting young attackers.
Now under Vincent Kompany, Bayern are reassessing their attacking options and see Havertz as a player capable of adding flexibility and experience to their frontline.
From a key signing to squad competition at Arsenal
Havertz arrived at Arsenal from Chelsea amid significant debate, initially deployed by Mikel Arteta as a left-sided midfielder alongside Martin Ødegaard.
He later transitioned into a central striking role, becoming the first-choice option ahead of Gabriel Jesus.
A lack of consistent goals from the striker position last season prompted the club to make a decisive move for Viktor Gyökeres, while the arrivals of Declan Rice and Martín Zubimendi have further crowded the midfield.
As a result, Havertz has slipped down the pecking order, despite being one of the club’s highest earners.
Kai Havertz in action for Arsenal (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Bayern view Havertz’s adaptability as a major asset. Capable of operating as a striker, attacking midfielder, or wide forward, he could provide cover for Harry Kane while also offering a different tactical profile to Bayern’s attack.
The Bavarian club are also assessing their forward depth following uncertainty around Nicolas Jackson, making Havertz an appealing option.
Despite the speculation, Arsenal are reluctant sellers. Arteta remains a strong believer in Havertz, having backed him publicly and privately since his arrival from Chelsea.
Season
Competition
Apps
Goals
Assists
Yellow Cards
2023/24
Premier League
37
13
7
11
Champions League
10
1
0
2
Domestic Cups*
4
0
0
1
2024/25
Premier League
35
12
5
8
Champions League
10
4
1
2
Domestic Cups
5
2
1
1
2025/26
Premier League
21
8
4
3
Champions League
6
2
1
1
Domestic Cups
4
1
0
0
Arsenal Total
All Competitions
132
41
19
29
Havertz stats at Arsenal
The German international has recently returned from a long-term injury and has featured in games against Kairat Almaty in the Champions League and against Chelsea in the EFL Cup.
He scored the decisive goal in the second leg of the EFL Cup semi-final against his former club at the Emirates Stadium, a timely reminder of his ability to deliver in big moments.
Arsenal have had some initial talks over signing one of the hottest prospects in Brazil, but Chelsea could also come into the conversation.
As first reported here for the Daily Briefing, sources in the industry believe it could end up being a big summer for Corinthians midfielder Breno Bidon, who already attracted a lot of interest in the January transfer window just gone.
The 20-year-old central midfielder has already played over 100 senior matches for Corinthians, scoring four goals, and it seems clear that he’ll earn himself a big move sooner rather than later.
Breno Bidon on Arsenal’s radar as host of European clubs show interest in star with €100m release clause
For the time being, the feeling among well-connected sources in the industry is that Arsenal have the strongest interest in Bidon, and that they’re also most advanced with that interest as initial talks have already taken place.
The Gunners have reached out over this deal via intermediaries, but other top clubs like Chelsea are also monitoring the Brazilian starlet closely.
Breno Bidon in action for Corinthians (Photo by Pedro H. Tesch/Getty Images)
“Arsenal are firmly in the mix,” one source said. “They have done some early work on this deal, but of course Corinthians aren’t keen to sell. They’re in a strong negotiating position because his release clause is €100m.”
Other sources suggest, however, that Corinthians are realistic about Bidon’s future and might accept something more like €30m for him in the summer.
Chelsea are known for recruiting elite young talents like this and he could view Stamford Bridge as a good move for his development, though Arsenal also look like a tempting destination right now.
I’m told that other clubs to watch could be Barcelona, as well as clubs in Italy and Portugal.
Manchester United were presented with an opportunity to bolster their midfield during the recently concluded winter transfer window, but ultimately chose to hold their nerve and stick to a longer-term plan.
Despite clear concerns in the middle of the pitch, the club resisted the temptation to make a short-term addition.
According to respected transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, United were offered the chance to sign Wilfred Ndidi, who currently plays for Beşiktaş.
The proposal was framed as a low-cost opportunity, but the response from Old Trafford was swift and decisive.
Romano revealed on the Here We Go podcast:
“I can tell you that Wilfried Ndidi, former midfielder from Leicester, now at Besiktas, was offered as an opportunity to Man United.
“A low-cost opportunity, the player was very keen on the move but Man United decided immediately not to proceed.
“They had the chance to do something like a low-cost opportunity but they decided against it.”
Why Man United said no
Ndidi only joined Beşiktaş last summer after spending nine years as a cornerstone of Leicester City’s midfield.
During his time with the Foxes, he lifted the FA Cup, won the Community Shield, and played a crucial role in their promotion from the Championship.
His pedigree and Premier League experience made him an attractive short-term option on paper.
However, United’s decision to pass highlights a shift in recruitment philosophy.
Rather than opting for a stopgap solution, the club appear determined to avoid repeating past mistakes of reactive signings that offer immediate cover but limited long-term value.
Former Aston Villa star Gabriel Agbonlahor has criticised Liam Delap’s decision to join Chelsea last summer as he seems to be struggling for the Blues.
Delap impressed at Ipswich Town last season, scoring 12 goals in 37 Premier League games for a weak side that ended up getting relegated.
The 22-year-old has just one league goal in 15 appearances for CFC so far this season, and Agbonlahor believes this move came too soon for him.
Chelsea should’ve signed Victor Osimhen, Liam Delap should’ve gone to Everton
Speaking on talkSPORT, Agbonlahor said that although he rates Delap, he felt in the summer like this big move came too soon for him, and that he should have gone to a club like Everton instead.
The pundit also suggested that Chelsea would have been better off signing a proven big name like Victor Osimhen for the striker role instead of Delap.
Liam Delap applauds the Chelsea fans (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
“No, this isn’t working. I said when he joined Chelsea that I thought he should have gone to a team like Everton,” Agbonlahor said.
“Develop there for a couple of years and then make the big move to top-six side. I think the jump from Ipswich to Chelsea was too much.
“When I look at him as a striker, I like him – he can hold up the ball well, he’s a good finisher, but he just doesn’t look sharp enough for the top level of the Premier League.
“Someone like Osimhen was the striker they should have gone out and got.”
Liam Delap the latest striker to struggle for Chelsea
Chelsea have had a lot of problems signing strikers down the years, with so many big names turning out to be flops.
Nicolas Jackson looked promising when he first joined, but failed to develop, and is now out on loan at Bayern Munich, while Delap has not looked like an upgrade at all.
Going further back down the years, others like Timo Werner, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Romelu Lukaku, Alvaro Morata, Gonzalo Higuain, Radamel Falcao, and Fernando Torres also struggled to live up to expectations at Stamford Bridge.
Delap is still young and could have a big future in the game, but he’ll have to improve quickly or he might not get many more opportunities for Chelsea.
Manchester United are laying the groundwork for a major midfield rebuild this summer, with Elliot Anderson emerging as a leading target in their recruitment plans.
According to The Athletic, the Nottingham Forest midfielder currently sits at the top of a shortlist that also includes Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace and Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion.
United’s urgency in the market has intensified following confirmation that Casemiro will depart Old Trafford at the end of the season.
The Brazilian has been a stabilising force since his arrival, providing leadership, experience, and defensive structure in midfield.
His exit, however, leaves a significant void, one United are keen to fill with a younger, more mobile profile capable of anchoring the next phase of the club’s rebuild.
Since joining Nottingham Forest, he has impressed with his energy, ball progression, and tactical discipline, earning recognition at international level with the England national football team.
Anderson’s age profile also fits United’s strategy of targeting players who can grow into leadership roles rather than offering only short-term solutions.
Elliot Anderson in action for Nottingham Forest (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
While Anderson is currently the frontrunner, United are keeping their options open.
Wharton, 21, has been one of the best young midfielders in the Premier League since his move to Crystal Palace, earning praise for his composure, passing range, and maturity.
His rapid adaptation to top-flight football has not gone unnoticed at Old Trafford.
Baleba remains another name of interest. United explored a move for the Brighton midfielder last summer, but Brighton & Hove Albion’s valuation proved prohibitive.
Since then, Baleba has continued to develop, reinforcing Brighton’s reputation for nurturing elite midfield talent and potentially making any future deal even more complex.
The departure of Rúben Amorim has been viewed as a boost for academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo, whose long-term future at the club now looks more secure.
However, concerns remain over the form and consistency of Manuel Ugarte, adding further pressure to recruit effectively.
Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly ready to boycott another Al Nassr game as he could push for a transfer away from the club in June.
According to ESPN, Ronaldo remains firm in his stance that PFI should change their transfer policy, and he’s willing to continue his strike to push for change.
The report adds that if the situation doesn’t change by the summer, Ronaldo would be prepared to ask to leave Al Nassr.
The Portugal international refused to play in Al Nassr’s last game, with ESPN adding that he tried to block Karim Benzema’s transfer from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal earlier this week.
Why is Cristiano Ronaldo unhappy at Al Nassr?
As the report goes on to explain, there have been some changes at Al Nassr recently that have hindered what the club can do in the transfer market.
Cristiano Ronaldo lining up for Al Nassr (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Club director Simao Coutinho and CEO Jose Semedo were recently suspended by PIF, which angered Ronaldo, while there was also apparently a cut to the team’s expenses.
While all this has been happening, Al Hilal have been given more money to spend on big signings like Benzema, so it’s perhaps not too surprising that Ronaldo has been left frustrated by the whole saga.
The 41-year-old has a contract with Al Nassr until 2027, but it might now be tricky for them to hold on to him.
It would surely be a big blow for Saudi football to lose Ronaldo, but it’s clear they’ll have to make some changes to keep this star name happy.
Atlético Madrid are reportedly preparing to reignite their pursuit of Cristian Romero, with the Tottenham Hotspur captain’s recent public outburst adding fresh intrigue to his long-term future in north London.
According to The Sun, Diego Simeone’s side are considering a renewed approach at the end of the season after being priced out of a deal last summer.
Romero’s situation has come into focus following an explosive post on social media shortly after Monday’s transfer deadline passed.
The post was widely interpreted as a pointed message towards the club’s hierarchy and recruitment strategy, and it quickly gained traction after being liked by several Spurs players.
Frustration boils over at Tottenham
Tottenham have endured a challenging campaign marked by injuries and inconsistency, leaving Romero visibly frustrated.
As captain, the Argentine has often set the tone with his intensity and leadership on the pitch, but his latest comments suggest growing dissatisfaction behind the scenes.
With key players sidelined and limited reinforcements arriving in January, Romero’s reaction resonated with sections of the fanbase who share concerns over squad depth and ambition.
Despite the noise, Tottenham’s official stance remains strong. The club only tied Romero down to a new four-year contract in August, reportedly worth in excess of £200,000 per week.
Atletico Madrid’s longstanding admiration for Romero
Sergio Romero celebrates after Tottenham’s win vs Eintracht Frankfurt (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Atlético Madrid’s interest is far from new. Diego Simeone is known to be an admirer of Romero’s aggressive defending and warrior-like mentality, traits that match perfectly with Atlético’s identity.
Last summer, however, the Spanish side were unable to meet Tottenham’s valuation, forcing them to look elsewhere.
The landscape could look different at the end of the season.
Atlético are expected to reassess their defensive options, and Romero’s apparent frustration may be viewed as an opening, even if prising him away would still require a substantial offer.
That remains the key question. Given Romero’s contract length and status, Tottenham are under no pressure to sell and would likely demand a fee reflecting his importance.
Casemiro’s time at Manchester United could be approaching a natural conclusion, with Major League Soccer emerging as a serious option for the Brazilian midfielder’s next chapter.
According to reports from Daily Mail, LA Galaxy are actively considering a move for the 33-year-old once his contract at Man United expires.
United are understood to have decided against extending Casemiro’s stay beyond the end of his current deal, a decision shaped by a combination of age, wages, and the club’s long-term rebuilding strategy.
While the midfielder remains a respected figure within the squad, Old Trafford is increasingly focused on refreshing its core with younger, more dynamic profiles.
Casemiro changed Man United midfield
Casemiro arrived in Manchester as a statement signing, bringing elite pedigree from Real Madrid and immediately raising standards in midfield.
His influence was undeniable, providing leadership, defensive stability, and a winning mentality that had been missing.
However, as the seasons have progressed, the physical demands of the Premier League have taken their toll, and United’s tactical evolution has gradually reduced his importance.
Despite that, Casemiro’s experience and professionalism continue to command admiration, both inside and outside the club, qualities that make him an appealing target for leagues seeking established global stars.
Even in Man United’s most recent win in the Premier League, which came against Fulham, Casemiro provided an assist and scored a goal, showing his importance to the team.
Competition
Apps
Goals
Assists
Yellows
Reds
Premier League
22
5
2
6
1
FA Cup
1
0
0
0
0
EFL Cup
0
0
0
0
0
Total
23
5
2
6
1
Casemiro’s stats this season
MLS appeal and LA Galaxy’s ambition
Casemiro in action for Manchester United (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
For LA Galaxy, the potential signing represents more than just a midfield reinforcement.
The club have a long tradition of attracting high-profile names to MLS and see Casemiro as a figure capable of elevating their sporting and commercial profile.
His global recognition aligns with the Galaxy’s ambition to remain one of the league’s flagship franchises.
Casemiro is not expected to rush his decision. Reports indicate he intends to assess his options at the end of the season, with additional interest anticipated from clubs outside England.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has made it clear that the club will try to ask to get Marc Guehi available for the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal.
The England international actually scored against Arsenal in Palace’s quarter-final defeat at the Emirates Stadium in December, and he’ll now be a key player for Guardiola’s side after being brought in to help with the club’s injury crisis.
City recently lost Josko Gvardiol to a long-term injury, while Ruben Dias has also missed a lot of games, so it’s not surprising to see Guardiola now pushing to have Guehi available to him for the Carabao Cup final.
Pep Guardiola on pushing to get Marc Guehi eligible to play vs Arsenal
Speaking after last night’s semi-final second leg victory over Newcastle, Guardiola suggested the club will speak to the relevant authorities about getting them to change the rules.
Marc Guehi in action for Manchester City (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
As quoted by BBC Sport, the Spanish tactician said: “Hopefully we can convince the Carabao Cup that Marc can play the final. I don’t understand why he cannot play the final.
“You buy a player for a lot of money and he is not able to play for a rule I don’t understand. Hopefully they can change it.”
He added: “I said to the club, they have to ask, definitely. I don’t understand the reason why he cannot play in the final in March, when I have been here for a long time.
“The rules to buy a player depends on Fifa, Uefa, the Premier League who say, OK the transfer window is open, when you buy a player you have to play, no? It’s logic. Of course we are going to try to ask [for] him to play. Pure logic.
Asked what answer he expected, Guardiola responded: “No. But we will try.”
When asked about this by talkSPORT, Magpies CEO David Hopkinson didn’t deny the stories, but simply stated he didn’t know.
This follows the Athletic reporting that Tonali’s agent offered the player to the Gunners, and although it was too late for anything to happen in the January transfer window, it perhaps suggests it’s going to be a story to watch out for in the summer.
Hopkinson, however, made it clear that he feels Tonali is very happy at Newcastle and that the Italy international is hugely important to the club.
Newcastle chief speaks out on Sandro Tonali Arsenal transfer story
When asked if the Tonali stories were true, Hopkinson said: “I have no idea. That’s our answer.
“Eddie (Howe) got it right, he doesn’t know, I don’t know. Here’s what I do know, he’s a superstar player, he’s under contract here.
Sandro Tonali warming up for Newcastle United (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
“He’s not the only player we had that other clubs would covet, so I think if we get a situation where people aren’t trying to muck about and sew some chaos into the marketplace in order to dislodge our players then we’ve got a real problem.
“Sandro has been a wonderful player, a smile’s on every day I see him, I believe he’s happy here and we’re certainly happy with him.”
Could Arsenal lure Sandro Tonali away from Newcastle?
Tonali has shone for Newcastle, helping them qualify for the Champions League last season, but he’d surely be tempted by a big name like Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta’s project really looks like it’s going somewhere now, with the north Londoners topping the Premier League table, Champions League league phase, and making it to the final of the Carabao Cup this season.
Tonali could be a great fit alongside the likes of Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi in midfield, but Newcastle will surely do all they can to keep the 25-year-old.
As Hopkinson said, he’s a superstar player for NUFC and they won’t want a repeat of last summer’s saga that saw Alexander Isak leave St James’ Park for a big-money move to Liverpool.
Leeds United are among the clubs interested in signing Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough.
They were interested in signing the player during the January window, according to Sports Boom. It will be interesting to see if they decide to return for him in the summer.
Leeds eye Hayden Hackney move
They view the 23-year-old central midfielder as a “future captain”, and he could cost around £30-£35 million. He has proven himself consistently, and the opportunity to move to the Premier League is exciting for him. He will look to test himself at the highest level.
Leeds United must secure Premier League safety before they can sign quality players like him. Hackney will not want to join Leeds United if they’re in the Championship. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Leeds are currently fighting for survival. They must focus on securing Premier League football for the next season.
Hayden Hackney in action for Middlesbrough (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
It is no secret that they need more quality and depth in the middle of the park, and Hackney would be a solid acquisition. He will bring control, creativity, and composure to the team. He will aim to compete at the highest level, and a move to the Premier League would be ideal for him next season. Hackney has been linked with multiple clubs in recent months, and it remains to be seen whether he can finally complete the move in the summer.
Leeds will be hoping to establish themselves as Premier League regulars. They need quality players like Hackney if they want to compete at this level regularly. It remains to be seen whether they can convince the player to join the club after securing safety this season.
Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool are interested in signing the Middlesbrough attacker Cruz Ibeh.
The 17-year-old is highly rated across England, and he is expected to develop into a top-class player. According to a report from TEAMtalk, Arsenal and Chelsea are pushing hard to secure his signature. Meanwhile, Liverpool are monitoring his development.
Cruz Ibeh is in demand
Ibeh is regarded as a special talent, and he could develop into a quality Premier League forward with the right guidance. Arsenal and Chelsea need more depth in the attack, and it is no surprise that they are keen on the 17-year-old.
They have done well to nurture young players in the past, and they could help him fulfil his potential. Ibeh is likely to be interested in joining the London club if a suitable proposal is presented. It would be a step up for him, and he would get to test himself in the Premier League.
The two London clubs have the financial muscle to tempt the Championship club as well. It remains to be seen whether they come forward with an offer at the end of the season.
Meanwhile, Liverpool could be an attractive destination as well. However, they already have two quality strikers at their disposal, and the 17-year-old will find it difficult to break into the first team in the near future. He needs to join a club where he will get a prominent role and a clear pathway to the first team.
Perhaps a move to Arsenal or Chelsea could be ideal for him. Viktor Gyokeres, Liam Delap, and Joao Pedro have not been able to find the back of the net regularly since joining their respective clubs, and Ibeh could push them for a starting spot in the future.
Liverpool are interested in signing the AS Roma defender Zeki Celik.
The 28-year-old right back will be out of contract at the end of the season, and Liverpool have made enquiries for him. According to journalist Marco Conterio, multiple clubs are interested in the experienced fullback. It remains to be seen whether Liverpool can get the deal done.
The opportunity to join Liverpool will be exciting for the defender. It would be a major step up at this stage of his career. He would get to play for one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League, and he would look to fight for trophies with them.
Zeki Celik of Turkiye REACTS during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Spain and Türkiye at Estadio de La Cartuja on November 18, 2025 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Signing the player on a free transfer would be a no-risk acquisition for the Premier League site. They should look to get the deal done. He has shown his quality in Italy and can succeed in England as well.
If the 28-year-old manages to adapt to English football quickly, the deal could look like a huge bargain. Celik is at the peak of his career, and this could be the final opportunity for him to join an elite club. It remains to be seen how the situation develops over the next few months.
Technically, Liverpool can secure a pre-contract agreement with the defender ahead of a summer move.
Bayern Munich attacker Lennart Karl has been linked with a move away from Germany in recent weeks.
According to a report from Fussball Daten, Arsenal and Chelsea are interested in signing the 17-year-old attacker. He has been compared to Arjen Robben for his style of play and described as a player with “fearless magic”. Karl has 10 goal contributions so far this season.
They are looking to build a team for the future, and signing one of the best young players in Europe would be a step in the right direction. Meanwhile, the German champions will not want to lose a prospect like him. It would be a huge blow for them.
Lennart Karl in action for Bayern Munich (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
It is no secret that Arsenal and Chelsea need more cutting-edge in the final third. They have struggled to create opportunities at times, and Karl good to be an excellent addition. He is exceptional at taking on defenders and beating them in one-on-one situations. He will add pace and unpredictability to the team.
It remains to be seen whether the player is open to moving to the Premier League. It could be an excellent next step in his career and accelerate his development.
Arsenal and Chelsea are among the biggest clubs in the world, and they could be an attractive destination for most players. It remains to be seen what the player decides.
Liverpool and Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing the Wolves attacker Mateus Mane.
According to SportsBoom, they have held formal discussions to sign the 18-year-old, and he will cost around £45-50 million. It will be interesting to see if Liverpool or Manchester United are prepared to pay that kind of money for the young attacker.
They need more quality and depth in the attacking unit, and the England youth international would be a long-term acquisition. Liverpool and Manchester United have been scouting the player extensively over the last month and have been impressed by his performances. The young attacker will also be attracted to the idea of joining a big club. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
The asking price seems high for a player who is still unproven at the highest level, but Mane has tremendous potential and could justify the investment in the future. It remains to be seen whether Liverpool and Manchester United are prepared to take a gamble and pay a premium for him.
Mateus Mane applauds the Wolves fans (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
The 18-year-old will add technical ability, flair, and explosive pace from the flanks. He can operate centrally as well. Liverpool or Manchester United could groom him into a future star. They have done well to nurture young players in the past. Mane has been described as a player with a “footballing brain beyond his years”.
Wolves are currently the favourites to go down at the end of the season, and they will be powerless to stop their players from leaving. The young attacker will want to compete at high-level and joining Liverpool or Manchester United would be ideal for him. It remains to be seen where he ends up.
Liverpool and Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing the Sunderland goalkeeper, Robin Roefs.
The 23-year-old Dutch goalkeeper has done quite well since joining the Premier League club, and Sunderland is expecting offers in excess of £50 million for him in the summer. According to Football Insider, Liverpool and Chelsea are keen on the player.
Roefs will be attracted to the idea of joining a top club, and it remains to be seen whether Liverpool or Chelsea acts on their interest with an official proposal. Liverpool already have two quality goalkeepers, and it would be quite surprising for them to move for the Sunderland star. They need to improve the other areas of the squad in the summer.
However, Chelsea need a reliable goalkeeper. Robert Sanchez has been criticised since his arrival, and they need to replace him. Signing the Sunderland star could be ideal for them. He has shown his quality in the Premier League with the black cats, and he could be tempted to take the next step in his career and join a bigger club.
Robin Roefs joined Sunderland during the summer transfer window. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Chelsea are one of the biggest clubs in the country, and they could provide him with the platform to compete in Europe and fight for trophies.
It will be interesting to see if Chelsea are prepared to pay an excess of £50 million for him. It is a lot of money for a goalkeeper. They have also been linked to Mike Maignan of AC Milan.
It is no secret that Chelsea needs a quality goalkeeper, and it remains to be seen who they end up with. Signing a reliable keeper should be one of their priorities heading into the summer window.
Manchester United want to add more creativity and control in the middle of the park. Scott could prove to be an excellent long-term acquisition for them. He has shown his quality with Bournemouth, and there is no doubt that he is good enough to play for a bigger club.
Alex Scott of Bournemouth (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)
The young midfielder can play as a central or attacking midfielder. He will add technical ability and creativity to the team. Meanwhile, the opportunity to play for Manchester United will be exciting for the youngster. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and he will want to take the next step in his development. He will hope to compete for trophies with Manchester United.
It remains to be seen whether Manchester United follow up on their interest with an official proposal to complete the deal. Convincing the young midfielder to join the club will not be difficult, but they need to agree on a deal with the Cherries.
The Red Devils have not competed for major trophies for quite some time, and they will look to return to the top of English football. Signing the right players could help them bounce back strongly. Scott could be an excellent acquisition for them. They have done well to groom young players in the past, and they could help the Bournemouth star fulfil his tremendous potential.
Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing Aitor Paredes from Athletic Club Bilbao.
The 25-year-old central defender has done well for the La Liga club, and Tottenham want to secure his signature in the summer. They could lose key players like Cristian Romero at the end of the season, and they need to replace them properly.
The Spanish defender has proven himself in La Liga, and he has the physical and technical attributes for Premier League football as well. According to a report from Fichajes, he will cost around €40 million due to a release clause in his contract. Tottenham have the financial muscle to get the deal done, and it remains to be seen whether they can wrap up the move quickly.
He has been identified as a priority target by Thomas Frank. Tottenham have looked vulnerable at the back this season, and losing a key defender in the summer would further weaken them. They need to bring quality alternatives, and Paredes could prove to be a useful addition. The 25-year-old could be tempted to move to the Premier League. It would be a huge step up in his career, and he will look to prove himself in English football.
Athletic Bilbao’s Spanish defender #04 Aitor Paredes (C) celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammates during the Spanish league football match between Sevilla FC and Athletic Club Bilbao at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan stadium in Seville on January 4, 2024. (Photo by CRISTINA QUICLER / AFP)
The €40 million asking price is reasonable for a player of his quality, and he could justify the investment in future. The 25-year-old has the quality to hit the ground running in English football and adapt quickly.
He will look to establish himself as a key player for the North London club if the transfer goes through. The Spanish outfit will not want to lose a key player like Paredes, but the release clause in his deal makes them powerless to stop him from leaving.
Manchester United are considering a summer move for Lewis Hall from Newcastle United.
The 21-year-old has been an important player for Newcastle since joining the club, and he could prove to be an excellent long-term investment for Manchester United as well. They are looking to bring in a specialist left back, who will compete with Luke Shaw for the starting spot. They are prepared to move Patrick Dorgu to a more attacking role and have identified Hall as a key target for the summer transfer window, according to Fichajes.
It will be interesting to see if Newcastle is prepared to sanction his departure. The 21-year-old defender is a key player for them, and losing him would be a blow.
Meanwhile, the opportunity to join Manchester United could be exciting for the young defender. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and he will look to fight for trophies with them. Manchester United are pushing for Champions League qualification, and they are likely to be an attractive destination for players if they finish in the top four.
Hall has proved himself to be a reliable performer in the Premier League. He will help Manchester United improve defensively and going forward as well. The 21-year-old is quite young, and he will only improve with coaching and experience. He has all the tools to develop into one of the best fullbacks in Europe.
Lewis Hall of Newcastle United (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
However, convincing Newcastle will be difficult. They are one of the wealthiest clubs in the world, and they do not want to sell their key players. They are looking to build a formidable team for the future, and selling the 21-year-old would be a mistake. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United decides to test their resolve with an attractive offer.
They are prepared to submit an offer of around €70 million (£60m) in order to get the deal done. They signed Liam Delap and Joao Pedro at the start of the season, but they have not been able to score goals consistently. The report from Fichajes claims that Chelsea are prepared to cash in on Delap in the summer. It appears that they are looking to sign the Real Madrid star as a replacement.
It will be interesting to see if the Spanish outfit is willing to sanction the departure of the Brazilian forward. His explosive loan spell in Ligue 1 will certainly force Real Madrid to reconsider his future. They will not want to lose an elite prospect like him. He was regarded as a world-class talent when he arrived in Spain, and he has shown glimpses of that quality in the French league. There is no doubt that he could develop into a world-class player with the right guidance.
Endrick of Real Madrid (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
Chelsea are in desperate need of elite talents like him if they want to return to the top of English football once again. €70 million is a substantial amount of money for a player who has struggled for opportunities at Real Madrid this season. It will be interesting to see what the outfit decides if an offer is presented. If they cannot offer him regular opportunities, they should look to cash in on the player.
Tottenham have struggled to create opportunities this season and find the back of the net consistently. They have multiple attacking players on the sidelines with injuries, but they failed to bring in an attacking signing. They were heavily criticised by fans and the media, and Tottenham director Johan Lange has now responded to the situation with a transfer promise.
The Tottenham chief has explained that plans are already in place for an ambitious summer transfer window and that the club will aim to significantly improve its squad.
Johan Lange said (h/t Fabrizio Romano): “We will go into the summer with big ambitions, the plans are already drawn up and we have a clear picture of what positions and which profiles we need”.
Johan Lange and Fabio Paratici look on during the UEFA Super Cup Final. (Photo by Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
The message from the club chief will certainly appease the fans to some extent. It will be interesting to see if Spurs can now deliver on that promise at the end of the season.
They need high-quality additions to compete regularly with elite clubs. They will need to improve multiple areas of the squad at the end of the season. They should look to bring in a quality striker, a dynamic winger, a defensive midfielder, and another central defender, especially if Radu Dragusin leaves.
Tottenham won the UEFA Europa League last season and were expected to compete for trophies again this season. So far, it has been a disappointing season, and they are in the mid-table positions. It will be interesting to see if they can improve during the second half of the campaign and finish strongly.
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Manchester United could emerge as a surprise destination for Jean-Philippe Mateta this summer, with reports suggesting the Crystal Palace forward is now firmly on the Red Devils’ radar.
The 28-year-old striker is approaching a key moment in his career. With his contract at Crystal Palace set to enter its final 12 months in June, Palace could be forced to consider offers at a reduced price rather than risk losing him for nothing further down the line.
That contractual situation has alerted several clubs, with Man United now monitoring developments closely.
Why Man United are looking at Mateta
Man United’s interest comes amid continued uncertainty over their attacking options.
Although the Red Devils have Benjamin Sesko, who they signed last summer, they still want more depth and quality in attack.
Joshua Zirkzee is out of favour at the club and United would need someone else to take his place if he is moved out of the club.
Mateta has enjoyed a strong spell at Selhurst Park, developing into a reliable focal point capable of leading the line or operating as a rotational option.
His ability to hold up play, occupy defenders, and contribute consistently in the final third has earned praise across the league.
Jean-Philippe Mateta in action for Crystal Palace (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Crystal Palace’s actions in the market suggest they are already planning ahead.
The Eagles have secured what is widely regarded as Mateta’s long-term replacement, completing a £48 million deal for Jørgen Strand Larsen from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
That move significantly alters Palace’s negotiating position and increases the likelihood they would be open to selling Mateta if the right offer arrives.
Manchester United have been encouraged to closely monitor the situation of Sandro Tonali, with growing belief that the Newcastle United star could represent an ideal long-term successor to Casemiro at Old Trafford.
As United prepare for another pivotal summer rebuild, midfield succession planning is emerging as a key priority and Tonali’s name is increasingly being mentioned in those discussions.
Tonali has become a central figure at Newcastle United since arriving from AC Milan, establishing himself as one of the most tactically complete midfielders in the Premier League.
The Gunners were searching for midfield reinforcement after Mikel Merino suffered a season-ending injury, and Tonali was briefly discussed as a potential solution.
However, that interest never progressed beyond internal consideration.
Newcastle made it clear they had no intention of entertaining late-window negotiations, and no formal talks took place.
Chelsea have also been loosely linked in recent months as they continue reshaping their midfield profile.
Former United defender Danny Simpson believes the club should be proactive rather than reactive.
Simpson has urged United to position themselves early in any potential bidding war, arguing that Tonali possesses the composure and intelligence required to anchor a midfield at the highest level.
Man United told to sign the Newcastle United midfielder
Sandro Tonali of Newcastle in action vs Man United (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
‘I think Tonali would work really well in that United midfield’, Simpson told Metro via Meta Spins Casino.
‘I think he would complement Kobbie Mainoo really nicely, because he gets about the pitch so well.
‘Obviously, he’s been a top player for Newcastle. He’s good on the ball, he’s strong, he’s physical, he’d be a brilliant player in there in many regards.
‘Also, he’s the type of player that I think could wear a Man Utd shirt. It’s not easy, that, and I feel like he could wear it with the pressure and deal with it.
Reports elsewhere suggest the Magpies would only consider offers well north of £90-100 million, a figure designed to discourage interest rather than invite it.
During his time in the Premier League, the Brazilian midfielder showed his quality and was one of West Ham’s best players at the club during his spell in East London.
However, he wanted to more comfort, more familiarity around him and that is why he decided to return to his boyhood club Flamengo.
Igor Julio is wanted by Brazilian side Cruzeiro
According to Brazilian journalist Samuel Venancio, Igor Julio, Brighton player who spent time on loan at West Ham this season, is being chased by Cruzeiro.
The Brazilian defender made just four appearances for the Hammers during his loan spell from September to January.
He initially joined in a season long loan but his loan was cut short in the winter transfer window.
Brighton knew he was finding it difficult to get regular appearances with the Hammers and decided to call him back at the club.
Igor Julio of West Ham United looks on (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
The 27-year-old centre-back, who can also play as a left-back, is set to be provided an opportunity by a club in his home country to revive his career away from the Premier League where he has found life difficult.
Brighton are not in favour of another loan for the defender, they are only looking for a permanent exit for the defender.
Palmeiras have been linked with Igor in the past but they were not willing to pay the £6m asking price set by Brighton.
Surprisingly, Cruzeiro play their first game of the year against Flamengo and Igor could come up against Paqueta in that match.
The Brazilian club have until 3rd March to conclude a deal for the defender.
Harvey Elliott, who is on loan at Aston Villa from Liverpool, has no interest of moving to the MLS despite interest from Charlotte FC, according to BBC’s Nick Mashiter.
Elliott’s loan spell at Aston Villa has taken an increasingly complicated turn, with the playmaker finding himself on the fringes of Aston Villa’s plans despite hopes of a fresh start away from Anfield.
The 22-year-old joined Villa from Liverpool on deadline day last September, but his situation under head coach Unai Emery has become awkward.
Elliott arrived in the Midlands with a significant clause attached to his loan, once he reaches 10 appearances, a £35 million obligation to buy is triggered.
Harvey Elliott frozen at Aston Villa by Unai Emery
However, he currently sits on just seven appearances, largely because he was frozen out for almost four months between October and late January.
Harvey Elliott in action for Aston Villa (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
There was, however, a potential escape route. Major League Soccer’s transfer window remains open until the end of March, and several MLS clubs explored a move for Elliott in recent weeks.
Charlotte FC were among the most prominent admirers, viewing the England youth international as a marquee signing who could elevate their attacking play.
Elliott has decided he has no interest in a move to the United States at this stage of his career.
The midfielder is instead expected to remain at Villa Park until his loan deal expires, despite the uncertainty surrounding his role.
Elliott’s decision suggests a desire to prove himself in England rather than seek a reset abroad.
From Liverpool’s perspective, the situation is also delicate, with the obligation-to-buy clause looming and Elliott’s long-term pathway still unclear.
For now, Elliott’s immediate future remains in the Midlands, even if his prospects at Aston Villa look limited.
Newcastle United are preparing for a potentially intense summer transfer battle after placing a firm and significant valuation on midfield pillar Sandro Tonali.
With elite Premier League clubs monitoring his situation, the Magpies are determined to make it clear that any approach for the Italy international will come at a premium.
While the links generated plenty of noise, Newcastle were quick to shut down suggestions of active talks, insisting the midfielder was never available mid-season.
Summer interest expected to intensify in Tonali
According to The Sun, Arteta would love to pair Tonali with Declan Rice as part of a dominant midfield unit at the Emirates.
Sandro Tonali of Newcastle in action vs Man United (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
From Newcastle’s perspective, there is no urgency or incentive to sell. Tonali is under contract until 2029, giving the club complete control over his future.
As a result, the Magpies are said to have set an asking price of at least £100 million, a figure designed both to reflect his importance and to deter speculative bids.
Despite the growing speculation, Tonali’s relationship with Newcastle remains strong.
The midfielder has spoken positively about the club’s backing during a difficult period following his betting ban, with Eddie Howe and the Newcastle hierarchy praised internally for their supportive approach.
That loyalty has helped Tonali re-establish himself both on and off the pitch, and he remains a popular figure within the squad.
However, sources suggest the 25-year-old is also ambitious. As a player who has competed at the highest levels in Italy and Europe, the pull of Champions League football and title contention could become increasingly influential.
AC Milan are reportedly positioning themselves to capitalise on Juventus’ ongoing contract impasse with Dušan Vlahović, with the Rossoneri exploring the possibility of landing the striker on a free transfer this summer.
According to Calciomercato, Milan have been monitoring the situation closely and believe conditions could soon align for a bold move involving one of Serie A’s most proven forwards.
Vlahović’s future at Juventus has been clouded for some time. Despite his status as one of the club’s marquee signings, negotiations over a contract extension have failed to progress, leaving the door open for rival clubs to sense an opportunity.
With time ticking down and no breakthrough in talks, Juventus risk losing a high-profile asset without a transfer fee.
AC Milan hold advantage due to Allegri
For AC Milan, the appeal is multi-layered. The San Siro side have long admired Vlahović’s profile and view him as a natural focal point for their attack.
There is also the prospect of reuniting the striker with Massimiliano Allegri, under whom Vlahović previously worked at Juventus.
That familiarity could ease the transition and help the Serbian rediscover peak form.
Premier League clubs remain interest in Vlahovic
The Premier League pair see the 26-year-old as a proven goalscorer capable of elevating their attacking options, though his salary demands are understood to be a key factor in any negotiations.
Newcastle & Chelsea face Premier League competition
Dusan Vlahovic reacts during Juventus vs Hellas Verona (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Despite that interest, sources in Italy suggest Vlahović may favour remaining in Serie A, where his game is well suited and his reputation already established.
A move within Italy could also offer continuity at a time when his recent seasons have been disrupted.
Injuries have limited Vlahović’s involvement this campaign, restricting him to just 13 league appearances so far.
According to the Mirror, Liverpool will be a part of the transfer race to sign Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton in the summer.
The Palace midfielder has several admirers after his impressive performances for the Premier League side.
Liverpool, along with Manchester United and Real Madrid are closely monitoring the midfielder ahead of a potential move in the summer.
The Reds signed Jeremy Jacquet in the winter transfer window but he will arrive at the club in the summer.
Liverpool enter race to sign Adam Wharton
Investing in youth is priorititised at Liverpool and they plan to do the same again in the near future.
More than Liverpool though, Man United have been linked with a move for Wharton in recent times.
The Red Devils are regularly linked with midfielders as it is their weakest position and more so after Casemiro announced he will be leaving the club at the end of the season.
United would need someone to take control of their midfield and even though Kobbie Mainoo has been impressive recently, he cannot be relied upon due to his lack of experience.
The likes of Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi have both left the club in recent times and manager Oliver Glasner is also on his way out after making it clear that he will not be signing a new deal at the club.
Wharton is a passer who likes to progress the ball forward and take control of the midfield, control the tempo of the game and bring stability to the playing style.
With Liverpool already having players like Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenverch in the midfield, the question is do they even need someone like Wharton.
Perhaps they should be targeting other positions more, like a left-winger to add depth to the squad.
Tottenham may yet revive their interest in Maghnes Akliouche when the summer transfer window opens, after missing out on the Monaco playmaker during January.
According to TEAMtalk, Spurs explored the possibility of a deal earlier this year but ultimately saw the 23-year-old remain with AS Monaco as the window closed.
Comfortable operating between the lines, drifting wide, or carrying the ball through midfield, he fits the profile Tottenham have been targeting as they reshape their creative options.
The reason why Tottenham lost interest in Akliouche
Tottenham’s failure to land Akliouche in January was not necessarily a reflection of lost interest, but rather a consequence of priorities elsewhere.
The North London club opted to reinforce different areas of the squad, bringing in Conor Gallagher to add energy and leadership in midfield, while also securing Brazilian left-back Souza to bolster defensive depth.
Last summer, Akliouche had already been discussed internally as an alternative to Xavi Simons, highlighting that Tottenham’s admiration for the Monaco man is not new.
While that move never materialised, sources suggest the player remains firmly on the club’s radar, particularly as Spurs continue to evaluate long-term attacking midfield solutions.
The likes of James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski will return to full fitness by then and the 23-year-old playmaker might not be Tottenham’s priority in the summer.
Jadon Sancho is increasingly expected to reassess his future this summer, with a return to the Bundesliga emerging as a realistic and potentially career-defining option once his loan spell at Aston Villa concludes.
The England international joined Aston Villa on loan from Manchester United in the hope of reigniting his form, but signs now point towards another change of scenery rather than a permanent stay in the Premier League, according to Football Insider.
Once regarded as one of Europe’s most exciting young wingers, the 25-year-old has found it difficult to reproduce the consistency, confidence, and attacking output that defined his time in Germany.
Despite flashes of quality, he has been unable to establish himself as a decisive figure in England’s top flight.
Struggle in Premier League continues for Jadon Sancho
This season at Villa Park has done little to alter the narrative.
While Unai Emery has spoken positively about Sancho’s professionalism and attitude in training, the winger has struggled to command a regular starting role or consistently influence matches.
Villa’s squad depth and tactical demands have also limited Sancho’s opportunities to express himself freely.
As a result, there is a growing acceptance on all sides that the loan will not be extended and that a fresh solution will be sought once the season ends.
Why Bundesliga move makes sense for the winger
Jadon Sancho is on loan at Aston Villa from Man United (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)
A return to the Bundesliga is viewed by many close to the player as a logical next step. Sancho’s most productive football came in Germany, where he thrived in a faster, more open style that emphasised attacking freedom and one-on-one creativity.
His previous loan spell back at Dortmund offered brief reminders of his quality, even if it fell short of a full renaissance.
It remains to be seen if Dortmund are willing to welcome him back to the club or some other German club will now take a chance on the English winger.
Premier League clubs are increasingly shaping the direction of the Kees Smit transfer saga, with England emerging as the most likely destination for one of European football’s most coveted young midfielders.
The 20-year-old AZ Alkmaar standout has attracted sustained interest from Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United, all of whom explored potential deals during the January transfer window, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.
Smit’s rise in the Eredivisie has been swift and eye-catching. Comfortable dictating play from deep while also capable of driving forward with the ball, the Dutch youth international has developed a reputation for showing maturity beyond years.
The Merseyside club have a track record of identifying elite young midfielders before their value peaks, and Smit fits that recruitment profile closely.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are thought to be operating with a longer horizon. Sources suggest the Gunners are already mapping out a possible move for the summer of 2026.
Man United have also kept a watching brief and could move more aggressively as soon as this summer if conditions allow, particularly as they reassess their midfield options.
Kees Smit warming up for AZ Alkmaar (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
AZ Alkmaar have placed an initial valuation of around €60 million on Smit, but that figure is widely expected to rise.
With multiple Premier League clubs monitoring the situation, the price could climb towards €75 million, a level that reflects both Smit’s potential and the inflationary effect of English interest.
That financial reality gives Premier League sides a clear edge over European rivals such as Real Madrid.
Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley could be out for much longer than initially thought.
That is according to injury expert Ben Dinnery, who claims that the Northern Irish international is looking at a significantly longer spell on the sidelines, with his return potentially pushed back as far as 2027.
While the club initially hoped for a return for pre-season, the latest assessment from the injury expert suggests otherwise.
Conor Bradley’s injury worse than initially feared
(Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Speaking exclusively to Anfield Index, Dinnery provided a rather discouraging update on the 22-year-old’s condition.
The injury, which occurred during a high-tension stoppage-time incident at the Emirates, involves both significant ligament and bone damage.
Dinnery said:
“We’re probably looking at something that is going to head into the latter part of the year.
“If there’s any return in 2026, it would be a massive bonus for Liverpool, but it could quite easily stretch into the early part of 2027.
Dinnery also explained that the non-contact nature of the mechanism of the injury points toward a serious ACL problem.
“You’re always concerned with regards to a non-contact injury, and the tests showed that there was bone damage as well as ligament damage.
“The mechanism itself suggested that it was a serious ACL problem.”
Liverpool’s defensive injury crisis deepens
Liverpool’s depth at right-back is currently non-existent, with summer signing Jeremie Frimpong also sidelined with a groin injury.
While Frimpong is expected back in a few weeks, his debut season at Anfield has already been marred by recurring fitness issues.
With Joe Gomez also battling a hip problem and the club failing to secure Lutsharel Geertruida on deadline day, the Reds are currently forced to use midfielders like Dominik Szoboszlai out of position.
Though Liverpool recently confirmed the £60 million signing of Jeremy Jacquet for the summer, he remains in France for the rest of the season.
This development may force Liverpool to jump back into the market for another specialist right-back this summer to ensure they aren’t left stranded during Bradley’s lengthy rehabilitation.
Arsenal have officially booked their place at Wembley for the Carabao Cup final after a pulsating 2-1 victory over Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium, securing a 4-2 aggregate win.
While the night ended in celebration, the closing stages were defined by a moment of pure tactical tension that saw Mikel Arteta lose his composure just seconds before the decisive blow was landed.
Mikel Arteta was going ‘mad’ before Kai Havertz winner
(Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
As Chelsea pushed for a late equaliser to force extra time, the atmosphere in North London reached a fever pitch.
With Arsenal clinging to a narrow lead, the ball appeared to drift out of play during a frantic Chelsea buildup, yet play was allowed to continue.
Former England international Matt Upson, commentating for BBC Radio 5 Live, reported the frantic energy on the touchline.
“Well, 30 seconds ago Mikel Arteta was going mad that the referee had not blown his whistle.
“It has been a high-pressure last 10 minutes.” Arteta was seen frantically gesturing at the fourth official, convinced his side was being denied a blatant stoppage.
However, that frustration leftin an instant. Arsenal intercepted the resulting play, launching a lightning-fast counter-attack while the Chelsea defense was still over-committed in the final third.
Arsenal likely to face Man City in final Wembley showdown
The win means Arsenal will now face one of Manchester City or Newcastle in the final of the competition.
Their most likely opponents are going to be Pep Guardiola’s side who lead 2-0 on aggregate.
The return fixture is at Etihad where the home side are favourites to beat the defending champions and book the place in the final.
Man City have not been at their usual best this season. In contrast, Arsenal look their strongest self and are full of confidence at the moment, with Arteta doing an incredible job at the club.
Could the League Cup be the first of multiple trophies Arsenal will win this season?
The young attacker needs to play regularly to further develop. Sitting on the bench at the English club will not benefit him. It is clear that Sunderland does not consider him a key player, and it would be ideal for him to seek a summer exit.
It will be interesting to see where he ends up. The former Brighton attacker is a technically gifted player with a bright future. Joining the right team could bring out the best in him. He will add peace and flair from the flanks, and he is versatile enough to operate on either wing.
As quoted by Sport News Africa, La Nouvelle Chaine Ivoirienne reporter Alex Payne said: “Simon Adingra is a technically gifted player, but not explosive. He’s also not very involved in defensive efforts, which is what you need to succeed in the Premier League. There, they no longer want simply talented players, but complete athletes who give their all match after match. It’s very intense.
Journalist Izoudine Ilupeju added: “For his own good, he needs to leave the English league as soon as possible. He hasn’t been able to find his feet even though he has the ability, but when things aren’t working out, you have to look elsewhere. [Roberto] De Zerbi, in particular, wanted to bring him to Marseille, but unfortunately, no such luck. He could look at the French, German, Belgian, or Dutch leagues to get in shape and shine.”
Simon Adingra in action during the Premier League match between Sunderland and West Ham United. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Sunderland have had an impressive season so far, and they are pushing for a place in the top half. It remains to be seen whether they can finish the season strongly. It would make sense for them to sell that African attacker in the summer and bring in an upgrade. Keeping him on the bench will not benefit them. They should look to bring in someone who can make an immediate impact on the first team. A summer exit would be ideal for all parties.
Bruno Guimaraes has been exceptional for Newcastle United since joining the club, and he has been linked with a move away in recent seasons.
Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann has now suggested that the Brazilian could be on the move soon. He believes that Guimaraes will want to compete at the highest level and that the opportunity to join elite European clubs will be hard to pass up.
However, the German explained that the player is quite settled at Newcastle and would not be surprised if he decided to stay for a season or two.
A player of his quality will want to win major trophies regularly. Newcastle have an ambitious project, but they are not quite at that level yet.
Hamann on Bruno Guimaraes
Hamann said (h/t Chronicle Live): “Without a question, the best players want to play in the Champions League. Money is important too but it’s not the deciding factor. He will be getting paid well up in the North East.
“But the Champions League is the trophy along with the World Cup that all players want to win. If you’re not in the Champions League, you can’t win it, and every single Champions League club in England would be interested in Bruno Guimaraes if he decides that he can see himself elsewhere. The two Spanish giants would be interested too.
“I think Bruno can pretty much pick his club depending on how much Newcastle would want for him but he seems to be very settled in the North East.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if he plays at least one more season or even a couple more seasons at Newcastle even if they don’t get into the Champions League.”
Bruno Guimaraes in action for Newcastle. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Newcastle are looking to build a formidable team for the future, and losing their best midfielder would be a huge blow. It will be interesting to see if they can convince the player to stay at the club for the foreseeable future.
Tottenham’s defensive linchpin Cristian Romero is ‘going to leave’ the club in the upcoming June transfer window, according to Argentinian journalist and reliable South American insider Gaston Edul.
Taking to X, Edul revealed that the 27-year-old World Cup winner has already attracted concrete interest from La Liga giants and at least one other major European league.
“Cristian Cuti Romero has interest from La Liga in Spain and another league as well. He had already had interest in the previous transfer window and they came very close to making a formal offer. He is going to leave Tottenham in the next June transfer window.”
Cristian Cuti Romero tiene sondeos de de La Liga de España y otra liga más. Ya los había tenido en el mercado de pases anterior y estuvieron a un paso de la oferta formal. Va a salir de Tottenham en el próximo mercado de junio. pic.twitter.com/OWrjDpQgf5
Cristian Romero blasts ‘disgraceful’ Tottenham after deadline day
The news of a summer exit comes amidst a period of high tension between the player and the club.
Tottenham came back from two goals down to draw 2-2 against Manchester City on Sunday, despite playing with a depleted Spurs side struggling with an injury crisis.
With only 11 senior players fit for the fixture, Romero’s public outburst suggests a deep-seated frustration with the club’s current direction under Thomas Frank.
Real Madrid want to sign Romero
This isn’t the first time Romero has voiced his discontent. He has voiced his frustration towards the Tottenham hierarchy in the past as well for their perceived lack of accountability and ambition.
The latest comments have further fuelled talks of an exit. Real Madrid have had a long standing interest in the World Cup winner and as per a recent report, Madrid are prepared with a mega offer for Romero.
(Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Micky van de Ven also linked with Liverpool
To make matters worse for the North London side, Romero’s partner in central defense, Micky van de Ven, is also a target for rivals.
Losing both starting center-backs in a single window would represent a catastrophic blow for Tottenham as they look to navigate an increasingly turbulent 2026 campaign.
Leeds United crashed to a comprehensive defeat against Arsenal in the Premier League, and manager Daniel Farke has criticised Karl Darlow for his poor goalkeeping.
Arsenal scored their second goal of the game when Darlow put the ball into his own net from Noni Madueke’s corner.
Farke claimed after the game that his team should have defended set pieces better and that there was no need to concede an own goal in a game already difficult for the team.
Farke on Karl Darlow error
He said (h/t Leeds Press): “Wouldn’t praise (Arsenal) too much for this goal, for their set-piece routine, I think we should defend this situation better, not even one Arsenal player was close.
“Overall, I would have wished to reduce their number of set-pieces in the first half, that would have made our life easier, but in this situation, I think there’s no need to score an own goal.”
Karl Darlow did not have a great time vs Arsenal. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
The goalkeeping situation has been a problem for Leeds United. They signed Lucas Perri during the summer transfer window, but the Brazilian has been unconvincing. Darlow has been given an opportunity to establish himself as the first-choice goalkeeper at the club, but he has shown that he is not a Premier League-level goalkeeper.
It will be interesting to see if Leeds United can get through the season with their current options and secure Premier League safety. It will be their top priority to improve the goalkeeping department in the summer. They need to bring in someone who can dominate the box and add more stability at the back.
It remains to be seen whether Perri and Darlow can raise their performance levels for the coming weeks and help their team secure safety in the top flight. Leeds are fighting for survival, and they simply cannot afford silly mistakes from their goalkeepers.
Manchester United are looking to improve the attacking unit with the signing of Aleksandar Stankovic from Belgian club Club Brugge.
The 20-year-old has impressed with his quality and leadership in Belgium, and Manchester United have set their sights on signing him. It remains to be seen whether they follow up on their interest with an official proposal at the end of the season. The 20-year-old is a tremendous talent with a bright future, and he could develop into a player for Manchester United.
Club Brugge would certainly welcome interest from multiple clubs, creating a bidding war for his signature. It would allow them to recoup a significant amount of money for the youngster.
Harry Kane of Bayern Munich has an attempted shot whilst under pressure from Aleksandar Stankovic of Club Brugge (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Manchester United need a quality replacement for Casemiro, and the Serbian could be ideal. He could anchor their midfield and help them control games better. Similarly, Tottenham need a player with his skill set. Joao Palhinha will leave the club at the end of the season, and they need to fill the void he leaves.
It will be interesting to see which of the two clubs can get the deal done. The 20-year-old will be attracted to the idea of moving to the Premier League. It would be a step up in his career, and he will look to prove himself at the highest level.
Whichever club manages to get the deal done, could have a future star on their hands.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has sparked intense transfer speculation after refusing to dismiss the possibility of re-signing former Gunners star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
Speaking during Monday’s pre-match press conference ahead of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea, Arteta admitted the club is “exploring every option” to bolster a depleted midfield.
Arsenal could re-sign Alex Oxlade Chamberlain
The 32-year-old free agent, who has been training with Arsenal since November to maintain his fitness, is legally available to sign outside the transfer window.
When asked directly if the Oxlade-Chamberlain could be handed a short-term contract, Arteta offered a cryptic but open-ended response.
He said: “We need to do everything that we possibly can to see if we have a player that is available. If we don’t, we keep what we have.”
The Spanish international is set to undergo surgery on a fractured bone in his right foot sustained during the recent clash with Manchester United.
With the winter window now closed, the free-agent market, and specifically a player already integrated into the training environment, presents a rare lifeline.
Why Oxlade-Chamberlain could be a masterstroke signing for Arsenal
(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
While injuries have plagued Oxlade-Chamberlain since his departure from Liverpool and a brief stint at Besiktas, his return would offer Arsenal much-needed tactical flexibility.
Having played nearly 200 games for the club between 2011 and 2017, his familiarity with the “Arsenal way” is a significant advantage.
Club
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Arsenal
198
20
28
Liverpool
146
18
15
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain stats for Liverpool and Arsenal
Beyond sentiment, his experience in high-pressure title races and Champions League nights with Liverpool provides a experienced presence for a young squad in a crucial period.
With interest also brewing from Martin O’Neill’s Celtic, Arsenal may have to act quickly if they want to secure the midfielder as an emergency depth option for the season’s final four months.
Tottenham Hotspur are struggling with injuries in their attacking unit and have been advised to sign Raheem Sterling on a free transfer.
The England International recently terminated his contract with Chelsea, and Paul Merson believes that Tottenham should sign Sterling.
Spurs could use Raheem Sterling
Mohammed Kudus, James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski are currently on the sidelines with injuries. Tottenham need someone who can operate anywhere in the front three and create opportunities for his teammates in the final third. They will also need goals, and Sterling could be the dynamic attacker they are looking for.
Signing him on a free transfer could prove to be an interesting opportunity for the north London club. Unless his financial demands are significant, the move would make a lot of sense for Spurs.
Merson told Sky Sports: “They need players in. Thomas Frank and Tottenham have been unlucky with Solanke, Kulusevski and Maddison all out.
“I would bring Sterling in. I think it’s a no-brainer on a free transfer. I really do.
“You don’t want to start bringing every Tom, Dick and Harry in to try and stay up.
“They just need one or two players in and get their players fit.”
It will be interesting to see how the situation develops. Tottenham have been mediocre this season, and they need quality players to bounce back. They improved in midfield and defence in January, but failed to plug the gaps in the attacking unit.
Newcastle United and Aston Villa have submitted an offer to sign the Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen.
The talented young defender recently joined Real Madrid from Bournemouth, and the Spanish club has no intention of sanctioning his departure. They will not enter into negotiations with the English clubs, and it remains to be seen whether Newcastle or Aston Villa move on to other targets.
Newcastle and Villa want Dean Huijsen
They could use a quality central defender, and they were preparing to spend €40 million (£34.5m) on the Spaniard, as per Fichajes. However, the 20-year-old is a key part of Real Madrid’s plans, and it is no surprise that they are not prepared to consider any move.
Aston Villa are pushing for Champions League qualification, and they are likely to be an attractive destination for players if they finish in the top four. However, Huijsen is unlikely to leave Real Madrid for them. They will have to look at other options as they look to tighten up at the back.
Newcastle are also looking to put together a formidable team. They need quality long-term alternatives to players like Dan Burn and Fabian Schar. There is no doubt that the Spanish defender would have been ideal for them, but the move seems unrealistic.
Dean Huijsen warming up (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Real Madrid are looking to build a team for the future, and they will not want to lose one of the most talented young defenders in Europe and football right now.
Newcastle and Aston Villa have exciting projects, and they will be attractive destinations for quality players in the summer. It remains to be seen whether they can plug the gaps in their defence and launch a strong push for trophies next season.
Mohamed Salah has been linked with a move away from Liverpool in recent weeks.
The 33-year-old Egyptian international has not been at his best for the English club. Al-Ittihad are interested in signing the player at the end of the season.
Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah during a training session (Photo by Tim Markland/PA Images via Getty Images)
Meanwhile, the player is valued at €30 million. He has a contract with Liverpool until 2027, and it remains to be seen whether the Saudi outfit is prepared to pay up. It seems unlikely that Liverpool will stand in his way at the end of the season. They will look to cash in on the player while he still retains some value. It remains to be seen whether they can replace him properly.
Salah has been a club legend, and he has helped Liverpool win several trophies. This is the right time for him to move on and take on a different challenge. Moving to a lower-intensity league could prolong his career. He would also earn a significant amount of money in Saudi Arabia, which could prove attractive in the twilight stages of his career.
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According to a prominent source on X, the representatives for Liverpool center-back Ibrahima Konate are scheduled to hold crunch talks with club officials this Friday.
The meeting comes at a critical juncture for the Reds, as the French international enters the final months of a contract that has become a source of mounting anxiety at Anfield.
Konate’s contract stand-off: Liverpool running out of time
(Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
The 26-year-old defender is currently playing on the same terms he signed upon arriving from RB Leipzig in 2021.
Reports suggest Konate previously rejected an offer that would have tied him to the club until 2030, citing frustrations over a performance-heavy salary structure.
With his deal set to expire in June 2026, Konate is already legally permitted to negotiate pre-contract agreements with overseas clubs.
Liverpool cannot afford to repeat Trent Alexander-Arnold mistake
The urgency surrounding Friday’s meeting is fueled by the ghost of last summer.
Liverpool fans are still reeling from the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who left for Real Madrid on a cut-price £10m deal just before his contract expired.
Losing a second world-class asset in successive years for free would be a significant blow to Sporting Director Richard Hughes’ reputation.
But there is a strong possibility that Konate could be on his way out and that would explain the club’s decision to go all in for another French centre-back.
Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero created controversy with his explosive social media post after the January window closed.
The South American defender seemed to criticise the lack of adequate signings, and he has now been slammed by Simon Jordan from talkSPORT.
Romero said: “Great effort from all my team-mates yesterday [against Manchester City], they were incredible. I wanted to be available to help them even though I wasn’t feeling well, especially since we only had 11 players available – unbelievable but true and disgraceful.
“We’ll keep showing up and taking responsibility to turn this around, working hard and staying together. All that’s left is to thank all of you for being there and for always supporting us, the fans.”
It is no secret that Tottenham needed more additions during the January window. They signed Conor Gallagher and Souza this winter, but they still need more depth in the attacking unit. They are without several key attackers and have struggled to create opportunities and regularly find the back of the net. The decision not to sign a quality attacker and to let Brennan Johnson leave the club could prove costly.
It is hardly a surprise that top-quality players like Romero are disappointed. He will want to fight for major trophies every season, and Tottenham have simply not shown the ambition required to challenge at the highest level.
Meanwhile, Jordan believes Romero has been “uncontrollable” in his social media outbursts and should be cautioned by the north London club. He also added that he feels the 27-year-old “will leave Tottenham” at the end of the season. The defender also wanted to leave at the start of the season.
Tottenham Hotspur were looking to add to their attacking unit during the January transfer window and wanted to secure the services of Angelo Gabriel.
The former Chelsea winner has impressed in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr, and Tottenham made discreet enquiries to sign him in the final days of the window. However, they failed to get the deal done.
The Brazilian winger is highly rated and has a bright future ahead of him. The 21-year-old could have been a useful acquisition for Tottenham. They need to improve in the final third, and signing the Brazilian would have been a boost.
Tottenham ended up signing Souza and Conor Gallagher during the January window, but they failed to plug the gaps in the attacking unit. It will be interesting to see whether that proves costly in the second half of the season. Tottenham are dealing with multiple injury problems, and key attackers like Mohammed Kudus, James Madison, and Dejan Kulusevski are currently sidelined.
According to a report from TeamTalk, Tottenham did not make an official offer to sign Angelo Gabriel, despite gathering information on his availability and potential fee.
The young attacker has six goals and 16 assists to his name for the Saudi Arabian club, and there is no doubt that he would have been a useful option for them in the attack. The 21-year-old is quite young and has a bright future; with the right guidance, he could have developed into a key player for Tottenham.
It has been a disappointing season for the north London club, and it remains to be seen whether they can turn things around in the coming months.
Liverpool have been handed a blow in their pursuit of the Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano.
The 27-year-old French defender has been linked with a move away from the German club in recent weeks. Liverpool were interested in securing his signature, but a CF Bayern Insider report claims the player has now decided to commit his long-term future to the German champions.
Bayern Munich offered the French defender a lucrative contract, but failed to secure an agreement with him. They ultimately decided to retract the offer, but the player has decided to stay at the club, and the two parties are set to complete the formalities.
Liverpool were hoping to sign him as a replacement for Ibrahima Konaté. The 26-year-old French International will be out of contract at the end of the season, and Liverpool have not been able to secure an agreement with him. They need to replace him properly, and the Bayern Munich star could have been ideal. He has been exceptional for the German club this season, and he is certainly good enough to play for the biggest club in the world.
It will be interesting to see if Liverpool moves on to another target now. They need to sign two quality central defenders, and they have already secured Jeremy Jacquet’s signature. Adding another quality central defender should be an absolute priority for them.
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich will be delighted to have secured the long-term future of their star defender. He is an indispensable asset for them, and his departure would have been a huge blow.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool can convince Konate to stay at the club. If they manage to do that, it would certainly offset the blow of missing out on his compatriot.
The 30-year-old has shown his quality in Germany and has the physical and technical attributes to do well in the Premier League. Arsenal are looking to add more muscle and drive in the middle of the park, and the German international would be ideal for them. He has extensive experience and the quality to play for the biggest clubs in the world. He is at the peak of his powers, and this could be the right time for him to take on a new challenge as well.
He has won several major trophies throughout his career, and he knows what it takes to play for a big club and to regularly challenge for trophies. He has been a key player for club and country over the years.
Leon Goretzka warming up for Bayern Munich (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
The 30-year-old will be out of contract in the summer, and it remains to be seen whether Arsenal can get the deal done. Signing a player of his quality and experience on a free transfer would be a huge bargain.
Goretzka has been labelled as a player “highly respected” by his teammates. There is no doubt that he would be an excellent addition for Arsenal on and off the pitch. Arsenal need leaders like him in the squad if they want to compete at the highest level regularly.
Liverpool are working on plans to replace struggling manager Arne Slot after a disappointing season.
Having spent a massive amount on new signings last summer, Slot has struggled to keep the club competitive at the top level.
Since October, Liverpool have struggled to keep up pace with Arsenal and Manchester City at the top of the Premier League standings.
Although their performances have been impressive in the Champions League, they have failed to have the same impact in the Premier League.
The signings of Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz and others have so far not completely lived up to expectations, possibly without the exception of Hugo Ekitike.
Liverpool identify Alonso as managerial target
Although nothing is decided at the moment, according to Fichajes, the Reds are interested in appointing Spanish manager Xabi Alonso as the next leader of the club.
Alonso was recently sacked by Real Madrid and despite his tough spell in Spain, he is still highly rated for his impressive work with Bayer Leverkusen where he ended the dominance of Bayern Munich.
Guardiola’s future at the Etihad Stadium is uncertain and a report has claimed that he is on the shortlist of Man City to replace the legendary manager.
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has praised Alonso in the past, calling him ‘exceptional‘.
Alonso knows the club well, he knows the sentiments of the fans and the type of football they want to see at the club.
He would be the ideal replacement of Slot at the club and players at Anfield would respect him due to his past success at the club as a player.
Marcus Rashford’s future appears to be moving decisively away from Old Trafford, with the England forward reportedly having no plans to return to Manchester United once his loan spell at Barcelona comes to an end this summer.
According to The Mirror, the 28-year-old has already made his intentions clear, prioritising stability and clarity over a reunion with his boyhood club.
Rashford joined Barcelona on loan in search of a reset after a turbulent period at Man United, where form, confidence, and scrutiny combined to stall his momentum.
While his time in Spain has been closely monitored, the move has given Rashford a fresh environment and renewed sense of purpose, something he is keen to preserve as he enters a crucial stage of his career.
Barcelona option and World Cup timing
Barcelona hold an option to make Rashford’s move permanent for a reported €30 million, a figure that reflects both his pedigree and the challenges United faced in maximising his value.
Rashford is understood to be eager for his future to be resolved swiftly, with the 2026 World Cup looming large in his planning.
Regular football, tactical clarity, and a settled club situation are viewed as essential if he is to remain a key part of England’s long-term plans.
Sources suggest Rashford has already communicated to Barcelona his desire to stay at Camp Nou beyond the current season.
While financial considerations remain central to any permanent deal, particularly given Barcelona’s well-documented constraints, the player’s stance is clear, a return to Man United is not his preferred option.
Man United position and Michael Carrick’s influence
Marcus Rashford is on loan at Barcelona from Manchester United (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
At United, the door has not been fully closed from the club’s side.
Interim head coach Michael Carrick is believed to admire Rashford’s qualities and would attempt to convince the academy graduate to stay should he be appointed on a permanent basis.
Carrick’s relationship with Rashford and belief in his ability could yet have played a role in negotiations.
However, reports indicate Rashford is prepared to look elsewhere if Barcelona are unable to finalise an agreement.
Rather than returning to Old Trafford under uncertain circumstances, he would prefer to secure a fresh long-term project, whether in Spain or another major European league.
Sandro Tonali is once again emerging as a major talking point ahead of the summer transfer window, with several of the Premier League’s biggest clubs reportedly keeping a close watch on the Newcastle United midfielder’s situation.
According to The Sun, Arsenal, Manchester City, and Chelsea have all registered an interest in the Italy international, showing his growing reputation at the top level.
Tonali, 25, has steadily reasserted his value at Newcastle United, becoming a pillar of their midfield along with Bruno Guimaraes.
His performances have not gone unnoticed, particularly by Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, who is believed to be a long-time admirer.
Arsenal admire Newcastle midfielder Tonali
Reports suggest Arteta views Tonali as an ideal partner for Declan Rice, with the pair potentially forming a balanced and dynamic midfield core capable of competing at the highest level.
Arsenal were even alerted to the possibility of a move on Deadline Day, though the enquiry failed to develop into anything concrete.
Pep Guardiola is understood to be a strong admirer of Tonali’s game intelligence and positional discipline and along with his teammate Tino Livramento, the Spanish manager is keen on bringing the Newcastle duo to the Etihad Stadium.
Sandro Tonali of Newcastle in action vs Man United (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Chelsea, meanwhile, are taking a more cautious approach. The Stamford Bridge club are monitoring Tonali’s situation as part of their midfield review but have yet to make any decisive moves.
Despite the mounting interest, Newcastle remain relaxed. Tonali is viewed as a central figure in the club’s long-term project, and there is no desire to part with him unless an extraordinary offer is presented.
A report from Fichajes has claimed that the Magpies have set an asking price of €80 million for the Italian midfielder.
Football pundit Paul Scholes has described the Newcastle United midfielder as a “brilliant” player.
Real Madrid are once again casting a close eye over the Premier League’s emerging talent pool, with reports from Fichajes claiming the Spanish giants are closely monitoring Myles Lewis‑Skelly, one of the most highly rated young prospects currently on Arsenal’s books.
At just 19 years of age, Lewis-Skelly has already established himself as a special young talent within Arsenal’s academy system and first-team environment.
Under the guidance of club president Florentino Pérez, Real Madrid have doubled down on a strategy focused on securing top young players before they fully establish themselves on the world stage.
This approach has already delivered significant success, with players such as Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga becoming central figures at the Bernabéu.
Lewis-Skelly is viewed in a similar bracket, a technically refined, tactically flexible player who could be moulded into Madrid’s next generation.
Madrid are particularly attentive to situations where young talents may feel blocked or uncertain about their immediate pathway.
That situation is not unusual for young players at title-challenging clubs, but it is precisely the kind of scenario Real Madrid have historically monitored closely.
From Arsenal’s perspective, there is little appetite to entertain any discussion over Lewis-Skelly’s future. Club sources maintain he is seen as a long-term asset and a player capable of playing a major role in the years ahead.
Speculation surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo is beginning to gather momentum once again, with interest from both Europe and Major League Soccer reportedly intensifying ahead of the next transfer window.
According to TEAMtalk, the 40-year-old forward’s situation at Al Nassr has sparked renewed debate over what could be the final major chapter of his illustrious career.
Ronaldo was notably absent from Al Nassr’s recent 1-0 Saudi Pro League victory over Al Riyadh, a decision that quickly attracted attention.
Sources cited by ESPN suggest the Portuguese icon has grown increasingly frustrated with how the league handled Karim Benzema’s high-profile move to Al Hilal, a transfer that has reportedly left Ronaldo feeling sidelined within the broader Saudi project.
Man United and MLS interested reignited
Ronaldo’s unease has inevitably triggered fresh interest abroad. Clubs across Europe are said to be closely monitoring his situation, with some reportedly willing to adapt their sporting plans to accommodate a player whose commercial and competitive impact remains significant, even at this stage of his career.
While few teams can realistically build around him tactically for the long term, his short-term influence, both on and off the pitch, continues to hold strong appeal.
In England, Manchester Evening News has reignited talk of a sensational return to Man United.
Although such a move would be complex and emotionally charged given his recent Old Trafford exit, the link shows how Ronaldo’s name still commands attention whenever uncertainty surrounds his future.
Across the Atlantic, MLS clubs are also believed to be exploring the feasibility of a move.
Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Despite turning 40, Ronaldo continues to defy conventional expectations. His goal output in Saudi Arabia has remained strong, and his professionalism and physical conditioning are frequently cited as evidence that he can still contribute at a high level.
Man United may not consider a move for him since they are now focusing on younger players who can contribute to the team for years to come.
The Brazilian midfielder has been brilliant for the Red Devils this season.
Under new manager Michael Carrick, Casemiro has found his form once again and in the last three matches, his contribution has been important.
Man United will have to look for Casemiro’s replacement
The midfielder scored and assisted a goal in the 3-2 win against Fulham. While United are happy with him, they know he is leaving and they are currently working behind the scenes to identify his replacement.
Nottingham Forest midfielder Anderson has been heavily linked with a move to United with Manchester City also expected to be a part of the race to sign him.
However, Merson has raised questions about Anderson and his ability to control the midfield.
Speaking on Sky Sports News, he said, as reported by United In Focus:
“I’m not sure, I like Elliot Anderson, but I’m not wow-factored over him.
“I like Elliot Anderson, but they’re fourth bottom of the league, fifth bottom of the league, Forest, so they’re not dominating all midfields, are they?
“And if you’re a midfield player, that’s where the engine is. Do you know what I mean? I don’t see him running the show in midfield at Nottingham Forest, and we’re talking about Man Utd.”
Arsenal’s transfer strategy has been forced into an unexpected turn after an injury to one of their midfielders.
The Gunners were left scrambling for cover on Deadline Day after Mikel Merino was ruled out for the remainder of the campaign, prompting internal discussions over whether to move aggressively in the market or wait until the summer.
Ultimately, Arsenal opted for restraint. Having already committed significant resources in the previous transfer window, the club were reluctant to sanction another major outlay.
Arsenal considered a move for Tonali in the winter window
Reports surfaced suggesting Arsenal had made enquiries into Tonali’s availability late in the window, fuelling excitement among supporters eager for an elite midfield addition.
However, those claims were swiftly played down. Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, dismissed the idea entirely in an interview with Sky Sports, insisting there were no discussions with Arsenal and no intention from Newcastle to entertain a January exit.
“We never had any conversation with Arsenal. Newcastle were never going to let Tonali leave in January. There’s absolutely nothing into it,” Riso said.
While the January links appear to have been overstated, the episode has done little to quieten longer-term talk.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano added further clarity, stating that a winter move was never on the table but hinting that the summer could be a different story.
Romano noted on X that Tonali’s situation is one to monitor once the season concludes, with several clubs already attentive to his status.
He wrote:
“Sandro Tonali was never gonna leave Newcastle in January window, never been a possibility. Could be one to watch in the summer with several clubs already keen, but it will depend on Newcastle + not a topic now.”
Tonali offers elite-level experience, tactical intelligence, and the ability to operate in multiple midfield roles and it is easy to see that Arteta would love a midfielder like him in the team.
Andy Robertson’s future at Liverpool is increasingly under scrutiny, with the Scotland international now expected ‘assess his options’ when his contract expires this summer.
According to Football Insider, the long-serving left-back is open to a new challenge after seeing his role at Anfield diminish over the course of the season.
Robertson, 31, has been one of Liverpool’s most influential players of the modern era, but recent developments have shifted his standing within the squad.
The arrival of Milos Kerkez has altered the pecking order at left-back, and head coach Arne Slot, Robertson is no longer considered the automatic first choice.
That reduced involvement has prompted serious reflection as he approaches the final months of his deal.
January interest and Tottenham’s persistent monitoring
Despite that rejection, Tottenham are believed to have revisited the situation on Deadline Day, making further enquiries to understand whether Liverpool’s position had softened.
It had not. Liverpool made it clear that Robertson would not be leaving midway through the campaign, particularly with the club still competing across multiple fronts.
Andy Robertson celebrates Liverpool’s victory over Burnley. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
While Liverpool’s refusal to sell in January was unsurprising, the longer-term picture appears more fluid.
With Kerkez increasingly trusted and Slot implementing a system that demands different positional profiles, Robertson’s minutes have declined sharply.
For a player accustomed to being central to Liverpool’s identity, that shift has been significant.
Sources close to the situation suggest Robertson remains highly professional and respected within the dressing room, but he is also realistic about his stage of career.
Robertson’s contribution to Liverpool cannot be overstated. Since arriving from Hull City, he has been a cornerstone of the club’s most successful period in decades.
Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero has delivered an honest and explosive assessment of the club’s situation following Spurs’ dramatic 2-2 Premier League draw with Manchester City, speaking out after the January transfer window closed with limited reinforcements arriving in north London.
The Argentine defender did not hide his disappointment, with sources close to the dressing room suggesting Romero feels Tottenham failed to adequately support head coach Thomas Frank during a critical period.
Tottenham’s resilience against Man City was undeniable. Trailing 2-0 late in the match, Spurs mounted an impressive comeback to secure a point, showcasing character and determination in the face of adversity.
However, the performance also showed how thin the squad has become.
At present, Tottenham are dealing with an injury list reportedly stretching to 13 players.
Key figures such as James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, Mohammed Kudus, and Richarlison are all sidelined, leaving Frank to patch together line-ups with limited options.
Romero’s post-match comments have been interpreted as a direct challenge to the club’s hierarchy.
“Great effort from all my teammates yesterday ,they were incredible.
“I wanted to be available to help them even though I wasn’t feeling well, especially since we only had 11 players available — unbelievable but true and disgraceful.
“We’ll keep showing up and taking responsibility to turn this around, working hard and staying together.
“All that’s left is to thank all of you for being there and for always supporting us, the fans, @spursofficial.”
Sergio Romero celebrates after Tottenham’s win vs Eintracht Frankfurt (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Tottenham’s form under Frank has dipped in recent weeks, and while injuries provide context, results have left the club drifting away from other top clubs.
The captain’s anger reflects not just the strain of injuries, but a belief that the squad needed greater backing when it mattered most.
As Spurs push through the remainder of the season with a depleted group, how the club responds, both on and off the pitch, may prove decisive for Frank’s project.
Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched figures of the summer transfer window in 2026, with interest growing from across Europe’s elite.
Despite being under contract at Chelsea until 2032, the Argentine’s future is far from straightforward, as sporting ambition, financial reality, and outside interest begin to converge.
Fernández remains a central figure at Stamford Bridge, both in terms of on-pitch influence and long-term planning.
Much of Madrid’s thinking is linked to the long-term outlook surrounding Jude Bellingham.
Should Bellingham move on at the end of the season, a scenario Madrid are not actively planning for but cannot ignore, Fernández is seen as a profile capable of stepping into a leadership role at the Bernabéu.
That said, Madrid’s midfield is currently well stocked, and sources close to the club suggest there is no urgency to act.
Any move would likely depend on significant outgoings, which naturally slows momentum.
Chelsea’s stance remains firm in public. Head coach Liam Rosenior has repeatedly shown his desire to build around Fernández.
Internally, the Argentine is viewed as a reference point for both the present and the future.
Yet Chelsea’s financial obligations mean tough decisions may loom. If the club opt to sell, sources suggest a fee in the region of €100-110 million would be required.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta gave the perfect response when asked about Manchester United legend Paul Scholes criticising his team’s style.
Speaking at his press conference on Monday, Arteta was asked about concerns over his tactics and how entertaining the style of football has been this season.
Arsenal have had their critics, though Arteta mainly insisted that he only hears good things from people he’s spoken to around Europe.
The Spanish tactician was then also asked about Scholes in particular, as the pundit has been particularly outspoken about finding Arsenal boring to watch.
See below as Arteta shrugged it off in pretty damning style, making it clear how little Scholes’ opinion meant to him!
? Mikel Arteta's brilliant reaction to hearing that Paul Scholes is not a fan of Arsenal's style of play! ? pic.twitter.com/I4shy7WBKM
Arsenal fans won’t care about style as Arteta’s side close in on titles
Arsenal aren’t exactly playing the free-flowing attacking football that became their trademark under Arsene Wenger for so many years, but that approach didn’t exactly bring much success in the second half of the Frenchman’s reign.
Arsenal fans will just want to see their club get over the line as they chase the Premier League title and close in on the final of the Carabao Cup.
Mikel Arteta shouts instructions during Leeds vs Arsenal (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Plenty of teams have enjoyed success with a variety of different approaches down the years, and Arsenal under Wenger were often criticised for not being better at adapting their tactics to grind out results when needed.
Now that AFC are better at that, they seem to be attracting critics too, so Arteta will surely continue to shut out the noise from media figures like Scholes.
See below for details as Dean also revealed the fee for the player, whose arrival still hasn’t been officially confirmed by the clubs…
I'm told Jaden Dixon will be joining Arsenal from Stoke City for a fee of around £500,000. Chelsea were also interested in signing the 18-year-old England youth international.
“I’m told Jaden Dixon will be joining Arsenal from Stoke City for a fee of around £500,000. Chelsea were also interested in signing the 18-year-old England youth international,” Dean posted.
Arsenal get a late deal done as Chelsea miss out on top prospect
Arsenal fans will surely be pleased with this smart bit of business, with Dixon joining for very cheap despite looking like someone whose value will surely increase a lot in the next few years.
Jaden Dixon in action for Stoke City
The teenager has shown huge potential at Stoke, and it makes sense that this was a deal Chelsea were also really keen on.
The Blues have a policy of recruiting the best young players from English football and elsewhere in the world, and it looks like Dixon could have been a good fit.
Arsenal fans will now hope the Dixon deal can be officially announced soon and that he can go on to make an impact on their first-team before too long.
Even if he most likely won’t be a regular straight away, we have seen Mikel Arteta giving plenty of opportunities to top young players in recent times.
The transfer window is now closed, so we’ve rounded up every single done deal by all 20 Premier League clubs over the last month.
It wasn’t the most memorable January transfer window, but read on for every done deal as there were some major deals done by the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham.
For City, it was a pretty exciting window as Pep Guardiola moved to bring in Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth after his terrific form there in the last year and a half or so.
Meanwhile, Marc Guehi also made the move to the Etihad Stadium to fill the void left by the injured Josko Gvardiol, meaning that long-running saga came to an end a little earlier than expected, with his Crystal Palace contract only a few months away from expiring anyway.
For Arsenal, it was mostly a window of exits, as Ethan Nwaneri joined Marseille on loan, while Oleksandr Zinchenko left for a permanent move to Ajax.
Elsewhere, Conor Gallagher was a big name arrival back to the Premier League, with the former Chelsea midfielder leaving Atletico Madrid after a year and a half to join Tottenham.
Read on for our full list of done deals from this transfer window…
Arsenal
IN
None
OUT
Osman Kamara – Blackburn, undisclosed
Oleksandr Zinchenko – Ajax, undisclosed
Louie Copley – Crawley, loan
Ethan Nwaneri – Marseille, loan
Maldini Kacurri – Grimsby, loan
Aston Villa
Tammy Abraham in action for Aston Villa (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
IN
Tammy Abraham – Besiktas, £18.2m
Alysson – Gremio, £10m
Brian Madjo – Metz, undisclosed
Leon Bailey – Roma, loan recall
Douglas Luiz – Juventus, loan
OUT
Louie Barry – Stockport, loan
Samuel Iling-Junior, Pisa, loan
Ben Broggio – Falkirk, loan
Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba – West Brom, loan
Evann Guessand – Crystal Palace, loan
Aidan Borland – Swindon, loan
Sil Swinkels – Chesterfield, loan
Donyell Malen – Roma, loan with £21.6m obligation to buy
Liverpool have reportedly taken another step closer to signing Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, who has now had his medical with the Reds.
The talented 20-year-old has been the subject of a lot of interest this winter, with the Athletic reporting on his medical with Liverpool being scheduled.
And now Mike McGrath of the Telegraph has posted on X that that medical has now been done, with Jacquet all set to join Liverpool for a potential £60m package in the summer.
Jérémy Jacquet has completed his medical at Liverpool. The 20yr centre-back will join #LFC in £60m deal, with £55m up front and join in the summer after completing the season with Rennes
McGrath posted: “Jérémy Jacquet has completed his medical at Liverpool. The 20yr centre-back will join #LFC in £60m deal, with £55m up front and join in the summer after completing the season with Rennes.”
Sky Sports’ Kaveh Solhekol had posted about the Blues pursuing the young defender, with Rennes’ preference always being to keep him until the summer.
Perhaps this ended up being the key detail, as LFC have clearly allowed Jacquet to remain with the Ligue 1 club for a few more months.
Jeremy Jacquet in action for Rennes
Chelsea, by contrast, looked like they really needed a new defender now, and this led to them recalling Mamadou Sarr from his loan spell at Strasbourg.
Liverpool fans will be delighted to see their club move quickly to hijack the deal and secure the services of one of the most highly regarded young defenders in Europe.
Arne Slot looks like he could do with a signing like this for the near future, with Virgil van Dijk not getting any younger, while Ibrahima Konate is coming towards the end of his contract this summer.
Chelsea have officially announced that Mamadou Sarr has been recalled to the club from his loan at Strasbourg, while Aaron Anselmino has joined the Ligue 1 side.
The Blues recently recalled Anselmino from his loan stint with Borussia Dortmund, and it looked like this could lead to him being involved in their first-team in the second half of the season.
However, Chelsea have now confirmed that the talented young Argentine has instead gone on loan to Strasbourg for the second half of this campaign, replacing Sarr as he’s returned to Stamford Bridge.
See below for the official announcements, which came in quick succession this evening…
Mamadou Sarr has returned to Chelsea from his loan spell at Strasbourg.
Even if some Chelsea fans might be a bit baffled by all this movement, it could end up being smart business by the west London giants to get Sarr playing under Liam Rosenior again.
Rosenior recently replaced Enzo Maresca as CFC manager, having impressed at fellow BlueCo club Strasbourg.
Mamadou Sarr takes a sip of water (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Sarr played under Rosenior and performed well, so that could be a useful option for Chelsea to have in the second half of the season.
It will be interesting to see if the talented 20-year-old goes straight into the Chelsea team, but there’s no doubt Rosenior could do with more options at the back.
There’ll no doubt be fans looking into last minute Arsenal vs Chelsea tickets for tomorrow night’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg, but that game is surely going to come too soon for Sarr.
The Senegal international would really be being thrown in at the deep end if he were to be handed his Chelsea debut in such a big game at the Emirates Stadium, but perhaps after that he’ll get a run in the side.
?? EXCLUSIVE: Dayot Upamecano approves new deal at Bayern, clubs interested are informed!
He’s set to sign new contract soon at FC Bayern, happy to stay as huge boost for the club after big efforts from club and player side to make it happen. ??
Romano posted: “Dayot Upamecano approves new deal at Bayern, clubs interested are informed! He’s set to sign new contract soon at FC Bayern, happy to stay as huge boost for the club after big efforts from club and player side to make it happen. It will be valid until 2030.”
Dayot Upamecano decision looks like a blow for Liverpool
We’ve previously reported on Liverpool’s interest in Upamecano, as has Christian Falk in one of his columns here, but the Reds now look set to miss out on the 27-year-old.
Dayot Upamecano in action for Bayern (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
This is hardly ideal for LFC at a time when they look in need of a major shake-up in defence, with Ibrahima Konate coming towards the end of his contract at Anfield.
Meanwhile, Virgil van Dijk is not getting any younger, so there could soon be the need for a player of Upamecano’s calibre to come in and become a new key player in Arne Slot’s back line.
Bayern fans will be delighted, though, as Upamecano can now put the speculation behind him and focus on getting back to his very best.
Fabrizio Romano has some positive Arsenal transfer news today despite it being a mostly underwhelming Deadline Day for the Gunners and a lot of other clubs.
It seems the Gunners have agreed the signing of Stoke City wonderkid Jaden Dixon, with Romano posting that the deal is done for £3.2m.
See below for details as Romano also claims Arsenal view this as a “massive signing” for a very highly regarded young talent…
???? EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal agree deal to sign England U19 international Jaden Dixon on a four-year deal.
Deal completed for £3.2m plus add-ons. Arsenal view the player as a massive signing beating several clubs to the signings. pic.twitter.com/9z5oX5SEKf
Romano posted: “Arsenal agree deal to sign England U19 international Jaden Dixon on a four-year deal. Deal completed for £3.2m plus add-ons. Arsenal view the player as a massive signing beating several clubs to the signings.”
Arsenal have had long-standing transfer interest in Jaden Dixon
This is not the first time Arsenal have been linked with Dixon, with the Daily Mail first reporting on the north Londoners keeping tabs on him almost a year ago.
Jayden Dixon is set to sign for Arsenal
Still, it now seems a deal is close to going through, so Arsenal can say they’ve got an important bit of business done before this evening’s transfer deadline.
Interestingly, it’s not the first time Arsenal have signed a Dixon from Stoke!
Back in 1988, Lee Dixon made the move from Stoke to Arsenal, and he ended up becoming an all-time great for the Gunners, forming part of that legendary back four along with other top defensive players such as Tony Adams, Martin Keown and Nigel Winterburn.
Dixon stayed at Arsenal until his retirement in 2002, winning a total of four league titles and numerous other major honours.
If this Dixon can go on to enjoy even half the career that his namesake had at Arsenal, then he’ll have done very well indeed!
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