Aston Villa defender Lucas Digne has now explained why he has chosen to live in London instead of Birmingham, despite playing for the West Midlands club.
The left-back has explained that there are no French schools in Birmingham, and he wants his children to receive an education in both French and English. Residing in London has enabled him to provide his children with a multicultural education.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Lucas Digne on his London stay
Digne told SoFoot (h/t SportWitness): “It’s a family decision. When I signed for Villa (in 2022), my son started school, but in Birmingham, there aren’t any French schools.
“For us, it was really important that our children could read and write in both French and English. In London, they have the opportunity to do both. They have two cultures, or even three, since my wife’s family is Algerian. They’re young, but you can tell they’re already open-minded.”
The French fullback has to make a long commute to play for the West Midlands club, and he has not been able to relocate due to family reasons. The defender also explained that he leaves home early in the morning to attend club training regularly.
Digne has been an important player for Aston Villa since joining the club, and he is certainly one of the best fullbacks in the country right now. He will be hoping to help them finish the season strongly and secure Champions League qualification for the upcoming campaign. They have done well in the Premier League so far, and they will look to finish on a high.
Newcastle United picked up a dramatic win over Manchester United on Wednesday, but Jacob Ramsey was sent off during the game.
The Newcastle United midfielder picked up two yellow cards against Manchester United, and he received the second one for diving late on in the first half.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Dermot Gallagher on Jacob Ramsey red card
Newcastle will be delighted that the decision did not cost them dearly in the game. They had to play 45 minutes without a key player, and it could have easily cost them valuable points. The manager will be frustrated with the situation, and the player will also know that he made a mistake. It will be interesting to see if he can learn from this experience and bounce back strongly.
There have been speculations about whether the officials’ decision was right.
Speaking on Sky Sports’ Ref Watch, Dermot Gallagher explained (h/t Chronicle): “I back the referee because of the angle.
“Does he have to do that? Is he caught? No. He goes down so far after the incident has happened, and I don’t think he needs to. I would also suggest that if he hadn’t have got a yellow card for that, people would be screaming and saying we don’t want diving. So Peter Bankes has taken positive action, so back him.”
Newcastle picked up a 2-1 win against Manchester United thanks to a late goal from William Osula. They have been quite poor in recent weeks, and the win over Manchester United will give them a huge confidence boost.
It will be interesting to see if they can build on it and finish the season strongly.
Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing the Werder Bremen defender Karim Coulibaly at the end of the season.
According to a report from Sports Boom, they are hoping to sign the 18-year-old defender in the summer, and his performances have impressed the Arsenal scouts.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Arsenal scouts fancy Karim Coulibaly
The report claims that Arsenal scouts have given a “glowing” recommendation regarding the player, and it remains to be seen whether Arsenal can get the deal done. The left-footed central defender has the quality to develop into an important player for a top Premier League club in the future. Arsenal have done well to groom young players, and they could help him fulfil his potential.
If they can sign the 18-year-old for a reasonable amount of money, he could develop into a key player for the club in future.
The defender is likely to cost around €30 million, and Arsenal certainly have the financial muscle to pay up. However, the player is largely unproven at the highest level, and they might prefer to sign him for a more reasonable fee. It will be interesting to see how the situation develops. The towering defender has the physicality for English football, and he could be an important investment for Arsenal in the long term.
The opportunity to join the north London club will be tempting for the Germany under-19 international. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to play for them will be hard to turn down. They could help him win major trophies in future.
Arsenal are looking to build a team for the future, and it is no surprise that they are keen on the German defender. It remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Liverpool eye Federico Dimarco
Liverpool is likely to lose Andrew Robertson at the end of the season, and they will need to replace the Scottish international. Signing the Italian could prove to be a wise decision. He has the quality and the experience to replace the Liverpool star. Meanwhile, a report from Sports Boom claims that the player could cost around €80 million in the summer.
He is a “flagship player” for the Italian club, and they do not want to lose him easily. It remains to be seen whether Liverpool is prepared to pay €80 million for a full-back. They need to improve other areas of the squad as well.
Meanwhile, they splashed out on Hungarian defender Milos Kerkez at the start of the season. He is the first-choice left-back at the club right now, and it seems unlikely that they will drop him from the starting lineup and sign Dimarco for a substantial amount of money in the summer.
Any left-back coming in is likely to be a backup to the Hungarian rather than a marquee signing.
Meanwhile, Arsenal and Manchester United could use more depth at full-back, and it will be interesting to see whether they are willing to pay a premium for the Italian.
He is at the peak of his career right now and playing his best football with the Italian club. Whoever ends up signing him will have a star on their hands.
Liverpool is interested in signing Joel Ordonez during the summer transfer window, and they will face competition from Chelsea for his signature.
The 21-year-old central defender has done quite well for Club Brugge, and a report from SportsBoom claims that Liverpool would be willing to pay more than £40 million in order to sign the defender. Ordonez has been hailed as a “huge talent”.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
The French International will be out of contract soon, and he has not yet signed an extension with the club. Liverpool need to replace him properly, and the South American would be ideal for them. The 21-year-old has shown his quality in Belgium, and he has the physicality and technical attributes for English football as well.
Chelsea is also keeping tabs on his development. They need to find upgrades on players like Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile. It will be interesting to see if they can convince the 21-year-old to join the club. The opportunity to play in the Premier League will be exciting for the young defender, and he will look to join a big club. Both Liverpool and Chelsea will be attractive destinations for him.
Club Brugge could be tempted to sell the player if an offer in excess of £40 million is presented in the summer. It remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.
Manchester United are interested in signing Julian Ryerson from Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season.
The 28-year-old has been exceptional for the German club this season, and he could be sold in the summer. The German outfit will need to raise funds to balance the books, especially after failing to secure a place beyond the UEFA Champions League playoff stages this season.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Julian Ryerson asking price set
They are ready to sell the player for €30 million, and Manchester United are keen on him. The player has been labelled as the ‘king of crosses’ by BILD, and it remains to be seen whether Manchester United are prepared to pay up.
He has registered 14 assists in all competitions this season, and there is no doubt that he has the quality to succeed in the Premier League. Ryerson could add a new dimension to Manchester United. He will help them tighten up at the back and create more opportunities for his teammates going forward.
Diogo Dalot has been a decent option for Manchester United, but his attacking game leaves a lot to be desired. Manchester United could use an upgrade in that area of the pitch. The 28-year-old has the quality and experience to make an immediate impact.
The €30 million asking price is reasonable for a player of his quality as well. Manchester United have the resources to get the deal across the line, and they should look to wrap up the move quickly.
The player is reportedly a target for Liverpool and Barcelona as well. It will be interesting to see where he ends up. The opportunity to move to La Liga or the Premier League will be tempting for him. It would be a major step up in his career, and he would get to test himself at an elite level.
Chelsea goalkeeper Mike Penders has done quite well at Strasbourg on loan this season, and he has attracted the attention of multiple Premier League clubs.
According to a report from TeamTalk, Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly made enquiries for the 20-year-old Belgian goalkeeper, but Chelsea have turned them down. They have no plans to let the 20-year-old leave the club anytime soon.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Chelsea plan for Mike Penders
They are hoping to give him the starting spot next season. Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen have failed to convince the manager with their displays, and Chelsea believes the 20-year-old could be the ideal option in goal next season. Chelsea signed Penders for £17 million in 2024.
Meanwhile, Tottenham also need a goalkeeper. Guglielmo Vicario has been quite poor, and the Italian has been linked with a move away from the club. He could be sold in the summer, and the north London club will have to replace him properly. The 20-year-old Belgian is clearly a talented player with a big future, and he has shown his quality in France. He could prove to be a super long-term acquisition, but Chelsea are in no mood to sanction his departure.
Penders wants to prove himself in the Premier League, and the opportunity to play regularly with Chelsea will be exciting for him. He is unlikely to force an exit from the club anytime soon. It will be very difficult for clubs like Tottenham and Newcastle to secure his signature.
It would be ideal for them to move on to other targets now.
Manchester United are looking to add more quality on the flanks, and they have identified Yan Diomande as a summer target.
The 19-year-old has done exceptionally well for RB Leipzig, and Manchester United have scouted him several times this season. They could look to make a move in the summer, and it remains to be seen whether they can win the race for his signature.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Where will Yan Diomande end up?
The player has also been linked with Liverpool. It will be interesting to see where he ends up. The Ivorian will want to compete at a high-level and the opportunity to move to the Premier League will be hard for him. Manchester United are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and it could provide him with the opportunity to fight for major trophies.
Fabrizio Romano has revealed on YouTube: “The plan of Man Utd is to add one or maybe two midfielders. I see that Man Utd will be very busy with midfielders.
“It’s not finished there, there is more to do in this summer transfer window. Man Utd have been following left-wingers for some time. When Ruben Amorim was the manager, they were in the mix for Antoine Semenyo, but Manchester City was his favoured destination.
“Don’t forget about a player I’ve been telling you about, Yan Diomande. He’s doing fantastic at Leipzig, and my understanding is that United in January sent their scouts several times to follow Diomande. He’s being monitored for sure, but let’s see if there’s going to be more.”
Manchester United are currently better placed than Liverpool to secure Champions League qualification for the upcoming season. That could give them an edge in the transfer race. However, Diomande is an admitted Liverpool fan, and it will be interesting to see whether the Reds can get the deal done.
Whoever signs the 19-year-old attacker could have a future star on their hands. Diomande has 17 goal contributions in all competitions this season.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Yan Diomande is in fine form
The 19-year-old has been exceptional for RB Leipzig and has all the attributes to become a future star. It has been confirmed that Liverpool are looking to secure his signature in the coming months, and talks have already ‘taken place’. It will be interesting to see if Liverpool comes forward with an official proposal to sign the player.
They have the finances to pay a premium for him, and the 19-year-old could be tempted to join them. Diomande has previously admitted that he is a Liverpool fan, and the opportunity to play in the Premier League will be an extra incentive.
Liverpool needs an explosive wide player who can take on defenders and beat them in one-versus-one situations. They need more unpredictability in the final third. Diomande has 17 goal contributions this season.
Plettenberg claims that Liverpool has prioritised the signing of a ‘high-class’ winger in the summer. It remains to be seen whether they can wrap up a move for the 19-year-old.
Diomande is an elite prospect, and Liverpool would do well to secure his signature. He would be a super future investment for them, and he could develop into a star in the Premier League.
The attacker will cost around €100 million in the summer, and it remains to be seen whether Liverpool is prepared to pay up for him. Even though the asking price is quite high, Diomande might be able to justify the investment in the long term.
Jonathan David has been linked with a move away from Juventus at the end of the season, and he has been tipped to move to the Premier League.
According to a report from TeamTalk, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are among the clubs that have held talks with intermediaries about a potential summer move. It will be interesting to see if they come forward with an offer to sign the player.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Jonathan David needs a fresh start
The 26-year-old has not been at his best since moving to Italy, and he has just seven goals in 37 appearances for Juventus. He has previously proven himself in France, and there is no doubt that he could be a very useful acquisition for Manchester United and Tottenham. David has been hailed as an “excellent” player by Zinedine Zidane.
Manchester United need another quality striker to support Benjamin Sesko, and the Canadian International would be ideal. He will look to get his career back on track with regular football, and a fresh start in the Premier League would be ideal. On the other hand, Dominic Solanke has not been able to find the back of the net regularly, and Tottenham need to supplement him with a reliable striker. The Canadian International could be the ideal fit for them.
Juventus signed him for free, and they are unlikely to demand a premium. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United or Tottenham can negotiate a reasonable deal for him. If he manages to regain his form and confidence, he could be an asset to both clubs.
The player is very much at the peak of his career, and he will look to get back to his best once again. David has 153 goals in his career, and he will look to make an impact in the Premier League. If a move goes through in the summer.
Liverpool already have a deal in place to sign Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes in the summer, but the talented young defender is set to arrive recovering from a serious injury.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
As previously also reported by L’Equipe, Jacquet has a shoulder injury that has required surgery.
Jeremy Jacquet in action for Rennes
This now means the 20-year-old could be out for anywhere between four and six months, so it’s highly unlikely he’ll be back in time for pre-season with Liverpool.
It may even be that LFC fans will have to wait until September to see Jacquet making his debut for the club, which is far from ideal as they really needed this signing of a top young centre-back.
Jeremy Jacquet has a big role to play for Liverpool
Even if Jacquet is relatively inexperienced at the highest level, he’s shown tremendous potential during his time at Rennes so far.
This prompted Liverpool to make a move for him in January, and he was also strongly linked with Chelsea by Give Me Sport and others.
It’s clear that Liverpool are bringing in a special talent for the future, but he’d also have a role to play straight away after a difficult season defensively for Arne Slot’s side.
Virgil van Dijk is perhaps starting to show his age, and the Reds have conceded a worryingly high 39 Premier League goals in 29 games so far.
On top of that, Ibrahima Konate is coming towards the end of his contract, so Jacquet could be immediately required to step into Slot’s XI to replace his fellow Frenchman.
Liverpool are reportedly keen on a potential transfer move for Eintracht Frankfurt left-back Nathaniel Brown this summer.
This comes after a slightly underwhelming first season from Milos Kerkez, who joined from Bournemouth last year after impressing with the Cherries.
It’s proven harder for Kerkez to look as convincing at Liverpool, however, who have generally had a disappointing season, with new signings all slightly struggling to adapt and with the team not at a real risk of missing out on Champions League qualification.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Liverpool might do well to give Kerkez a bit more time, but Arsenal arguably look in need of making changes in that area after an injury-hit season for Riccardo Calafiori, while Myles Lewis-Skelly has fallen completely out of favour.
Man Utd, meanwhile, should probably be thinking about an upgrade on the ageing and injury-prone Luke Shaw, while Patrick Dorgu has tended to play further forward more in recent times.
Liverpool to raid Eintracht Frankfurt again?
Liverpool signed Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt last summer, in what has been one of their more successful signings.
It could be that the Reds will use that relationship to agree a deal for Brown as well, with Fichajes suggesting the opportunity will be there as long as clubs pay the right price.
Even if Brown doesn’t replace Kerkez, this generally looks like a smart deal to bolster Arne Slot’s squad as Andrew Robertson has fallen out of favour this season and might need replacing as a rotation option.
Gareth Bale has named Carlo Ancelotti as the manager who would be ideal for Manchester United.
The Red Devils are looking for a permanent manager after sacking Ruben Amorim earlier this year.
Atlhough Michael Carrick has since joined the club as interim boss but he is still not certain to get the job permanently despite his impressive performances.
The decision to appoint a new manager will be taken at the end of the season when United have carefully assessed all their options.
Gareth Bale names Ancelotti as ideal choice for Man United
Speaking recently on The Overlap, Bale, who enjoyed massive Champions League success under the Italian tactician at the Bernabeu, explained exactly why Ancelotti’s profile is exactly what a club of United’s stature needs to navigate the intense pressure of the Premier League.
‘I think he would do great,’ Bale said.
‘He’s not just the manager, he is a coach as well. (But) He can do the tactical stuff.
‘When he was the head coach in his second spell (at Real Madrid), he did a lot more tactically then than we did the first time, but I think we had a better team the first time. Wherever Carlo goes, I think he would do an amazing job, just because he gets everyone on board.
‘If you go into a big club, you’ve got good players, whether they’re performing at the time or not. Like Man United, they have been the last few weeks, but, prior to that, they hadn’t been performing, but they’ve got good players. He’ll get the best out of players and will just simplify things, which you see now with Michael Carrick.
‘He’s simplifying a lot of things that the previous manager was doing, and you’re getting results. So that’s Carlo’s genius, getting the best out of the players and just making it simple.’
Italian manager is highly respected for his achievements
Carlo Ancelotti during Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
If the INEOS sporting department is looking for a guaranteed, proven winner, Ancelotti’s resume is essentially unmatched in the history of the sport.
Currently in charge of the Brazil national team after leaving Real Madrid at the end of the 2024/25 campaign, Ancelotti’s trophy cabinet speaks for itself.
He is the only manager in history to have won domestic league titles in all five of Europe’s top leagues (Premier League with Chelsea, La Liga with Real Madrid, Serie A with AC Milan, Bundesliga with Bayern Munich, and Ligue 1 with PSG).
He holds the all-time record for the most UEFA Champions League titles won by a manager.
Having managed the biggest, most demanding dressing rooms in world football, the intense media scrutiny and pressure cooker environment of Old Trafford wouldn’t faze him in the slightest.
Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder João Gomes has emerged as a sought-after figure ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, with both Manchester United and Napoli reportedly monitoring his situation closely.
According to journalist Nicolò Schira, the Brazilian international is open to leaving Wolves at the end of the season as interest from across Europe begins to intensify.
With the club entering a new era under the guidance of INEOS and interim manager Michael Carrick, strengthening the centre of the pitch has become one of the most pressing priorities.
Gomes has been a huge hit at Wolves
Despite Wolves enduring a challenging 2025/26 campaign near the bottom of the Premier League table, Gomes has been one of the team’s most consistent performers.
Since arriving from Flamengo, the 25-year-old has earned a reputation as an aggressive ball-winner and tireless competitor.
Nicknamed “The Pitbull” during his time in Brazil, Gomes has carried that same intensity into English football.
His relentless pressing, strong tackling, and ability to recover possession quickly have made him a crucial component of Wolves’ midfield.
Man United see Gomes as the ideal midfield addition
Joao Gomes reacts after Wolves’ defeat against Chelsea (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Man United’s midfield is widely expected to undergo changes this summer. Casemiro remains a respected figure at Old Trafford but is no longer able to cover the same ground he once did during his peak years.
Meanwhile, other midfield additions have struggled to consistently impose themselves in the Premier League.
Such a signing could also benefit young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. With a dedicated defensive anchor behind him, Mainoo would likely be able to play with greater freedom.
Napoli are also believed to be exploring a move. The Serie A side are seeking midfield reinforcements as they look to maintain competitiveness both domestically and in European competition.
The former Jamaica international ended up leaving West Ham at the end of his contract in summer 2025 as he continued his comeback from a broken leg.
Still, looking back at the saga now, Antonio has admitted he feels saddened by not being given the chance to say a proper goodbye to the fans at the London Stadium.
Michail Antonio’s dig at Graham Potter
Potter was not exactly Mr Popular as West Ham manager, and that’s largely down to results and performances on the pitch.
Still, judging from what Antonio has said, it also seems clear that Potter perhaps wasn’t the right man for the club with the way he handled things away from the pitch either.
Speaking to BBC Sport, the 35-year-old said he had “so much love” for West Ham, but found the way his departure was handled a “hard pill to take”.
Liverpool could face one of the most significant decisions of their modern era this summer as uncertainty grows around the future of Mohamed Salah.
According to Football Insider, the club may be open to letting the Egyptian superstar depart if a substantial offer arrives from the Saudi Pro League.
Salah, who has been the face of Liverpool’s attacking dominance for nearly a decade, remains one of the most iconic figures in the club’s recent history.
However, with the forward approaching the final year of his contract and entering the latter stages of his career, Liverpool’s leadership must decide whether to extend his stay or begin planning for life after their legendary No. 11.
Salah has been a legendary figure for Liverpool
Since arriving from AS Roma in 2017, Salah has rewritten Liverpool’s modern record books.
His debut season produced a remarkable 44 goals in all competitions, setting a new benchmark for a 38-game Premier League campaign and establishing him as one of the world’s elite attackers.
Over the following years, he played a central role in Liverpool’s most successful period of the modern era.
Salah helped deliver the Champions League in 2019 and the club’s long-awaited Premier League title in 2020, while consistently finishing among the league’s top scorers.
Saudi Pro League could be Salah’s next destination
Mohamed Salah reacts during Marseille vs Liverpool (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
The Saudi Pro League has pursued Salah for several years. In 2023, Al-Ittihad famously had a reported £150 million offer rejected by Liverpool late in the transfer window.
The Saudi clubs’ financial power has only grown since then, and fresh interest is expected if Salah becomes available.
With only 12 months remaining on his contract this summer, Liverpool’s sporting department are likely to make the decision to let Salah leave the club.
Newcastle United central midfielder Sandro Tonali has dropped a possible hint over his future plans after discussing his role as one of the main leaders in this Magpies squad.
Tonali has been a key performer since joining Newcastle from AC Milan, and it’s perhaps not too surprising to see the Italy international become the subject of transfer interest from bigger clubs.
Arsenal were linked with Tonali by the Athletic in January, but now the player himself has suggested he’s already thinking about how he’s going to be an important leader in Eddie Howe’s squad next season.
Sandro Tonali may have just dropped a transfer hint
Tonali has been asked about his more senior role at Newcastle now, and he’s admitted it’s something that seems important to him.
“It would be a little bit tough because it’s not my first language, but I will try,” Tonali said beIN Sports, as quoted by the Chronicle.
“I try to do my best. I try to help every player in the pitch. And I think this is should be for every player, not just for me.
“I think we have six or seven players in the leadership group, they all really helped me, especially the first year, three years ago, for me it was very difficult.
“Especially, Jacob Murphy, Callum Wilson, Jamaal, Bruno and Joelinton as well. Every day, they helped me a lot in that the first the first season. And they help every player now in in our team.”
Should Sandro Tonali leave Newcastle for Arsenal?
Tonali is surely good enough to go to the very top, and that means playing for a club like Arsenal who regularly compete for the biggest trophies.
Newcastle may have won the Carabao Cup final last season, but for now they look like they’ll be in and out of the top four for the foreseeable future, and eventually Tonali might be tempted to look elsewhere.
The Gunners could do with more depth in midfield after using Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi a lot this season without much rotation.
Of course, it remains to be seen if Tonali would be happy to make the move to the Emirates Stadium unless he were to become a guaranteed starter, but it’s the kind of challenge he might also relish.
Manchester United fan and YouTuber Angry Ginge has told the Red Devils to sign Chelsea star Cole Palmer.
The Chelsea player has been in fine form once again this season. He scored for the Blues in their 4-1 win against Aston Villa this week.
Although Bruno Fernandes is currently performing at a world class level, in a few years Man United will have to look for his replacement in the market.
Replacing Fernandes is a near-impossible task given his creative output and sheer volume of games played over the last six years.
However, Palmer fits the tactical and statistical profile perfectly.
Just like Fernandes, Palmer is a highly versatile, high-volume creator who thrives in the No. 10 role or drifting in from the right half-spaces.
His ability to dictate the tempo, thread defense-splitting passes, and consistently find the back of the net makes him the ideal modern playmaker.
Palmer grew up in Wythenshawe, Manchester, and it is a well-documented fact that he was a boyhood Man United fan before joining Manchester City’s academy.
Manchester City have reportedly joined Manchester United in monitoring Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson as the Premier League giants assess potential midfield reinforcements.
According to The Sun, City’s interest in the 23-year-old is closely linked to uncertainty surrounding Rodri’s long-term future at the Etihad Stadium.
While Anderson has quietly developed into one of the Premier League’s most promising young midfielders, City’s pursuit could depend heavily on whether Rodri remains central to the club’s plans.
Real Madrid are believed to be tracking the Spanish international’s situation, particularly with his contract set to run until the summer of 2027.
Man City, particularly, know well of his abilities as the Forest midfielder scored a stunning goal for his team against City in the 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium last night.
The midfielder, who previously progressed through Newcastle United’s academy system, has impressed with his versatility, work rate, and technical ability in central areas.
Anderson offers a combination of energy and creativity that fits the demands of modern Premier League football.
Rodri celebrates a goal for Manchester City (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)
For Man City, however, the potential pursuit of Anderson is intertwined with Rodri’s future.
The Spanish midfielder has been one of the most influential players in Pep Guardiola’s system, acting as the team’s primary anchor and orchestrator in possession.
Real Madrid’s reported interest in Rodri could play a huge role in City’s pursuit of Anderson.
Although Rodri remains under contract until 2027, speculation about his future naturally affects City’s long-term planning.
Should the club anticipate a departure in the coming seasons, identifying younger midfielders capable of evolving into key roles becomes a priority.
Manchester United are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimarães, with the Brazilian emerging as one of the club’s primary transfer targets ahead of the summer window.
According to TEAMtalk, United view the 28-year-old as a potential long-term successor to fellow Brazil international Casemiro, who is set to leave the club at the end of the season.
The Magpies are eager to secure the midfielder’s future with an improved contract beyond his current deal, which runs until 2028.
At the same time, interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs suggests a fierce transfer battle could unfold if Newcastle are forced to consider offers.
Man United are ready to rebuild their midfield
Man United’s midfield is widely expected to undergo significant changes in the coming months.
Casemiro has been an influential figure since arriving from Real Madrid, but injuries and the physical demands of the Premier League have raised questions about the long-term composition of the team’s midfield.
With the Brazilian now leaving the club this summer, the Red Devils are in the market for a new defensive midfielder.
Guimarães fits the profile of a player capable of anchoring the next phase of United’s project.
He is known for his energy, passing range, and ability to dictate tempo. His leadership qualities have also stood out. Guimarães quickly became a fan favourite at St James’ Park since joining the club.
Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes in action (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Newcastle remain determined to keep their star midfielder and are reportedly exploring the possibility of extending his contract.
The club’s ownership group has made it clear that retaining key players is essential to their long-term vision of establishing Newcastle among Europe’s elite.
Such a price reflects Guimarães’ importance to the team, his age, and the length of his contract.
Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are also monitoring the situation.
Former Real Madrid star Gareth Bale has admitted that his old teammate Eden Hazard is the worst trainer he ever came across in his career.
Speaking on today’s episode of The Overlap, Bale also admitted he wasn’t someone who loved training or put much effort in either, as every player needs something different in how they prepare for matches.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
The Welshman did, however, single Hazard out straight away as the worst trainer he saw, as he also gave some insight into the Belgian’s struggles at the Bernabeu.
Eden Hazard struggled after injury at Real Madrid
Hazard was a world class performer at Chelsea, establishing himself as one of the top Premier League players of all time.
Things couldn’t have been more different for him at Real Madrid, though, as he struggled to make the same kind of impact with goals and assists as he did at Chelsea.
Bale feels an early injury for Hazard upon his arrival in Spain ultimately led to his downfall as he never really recovered from it.
Hazard and Bale could have been a great partnership, and it’s a shame we never saw Hazard at his best while he was playing alongside Bale in Madrid.
Former Real Madrid and Tottenham star Gareth Bale has made it clear that he spoke to Manchester United about a transfer.
However, Bale never ended up at Man Utd, and he’s explained in detail why he went to Real Madrid instead of Old Trafford.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
The former Wales international would undoubtedly have been a dream signing for the Red Devils during what proved to be a difficult period for them after Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.
As noted by Gary Neville on The Overlap, it seemed that United were at one point confident of deals for big names like Bale and also Cesc Fabregas, but Bale responded by saying he had his heart set on joining Real Madrid.
Gareth Bale opens up about Manchester United transfer talks
Speaking on The Overlap today, Bale explained that he spoke with former United manager David Moyes, but it seems he never considered the move that strongly due to his desire to go to Madrid.
The 36-year-old also suggested a key part of this may have been an informal agreement with former Spurs chairman Daniel Levy about not moving to a Premier League rival.
“I did talk to United yeah,” Bale said.
“But my heart was set on Madrid anyway,” he added. “And I had something in place with Daniel Levy, more of a gentleman’s agreement … he didn’t want to sell me to a rival also. He don’t want to strengthen another (Premier League) team.”
Gareth Bale had a great career at Real Madrid
Looking back, Bale surely made the right choice when he decided to move to the Bernabeu.
Bale went on to score 106 goals in 258 games for Los Blancos, and won the Champions League a remarkable five times in total, including scoring in two finals.
United, meanwhile, have not won a single Premier League or Champions League title since Ferguson’s retirement almost 13 years ago.
Bale may well have helped them, but it’s also clear that there have been major structural issues at the club, rather than just a problem of missing out on a few top players.
Wrexham’s remarkable rise through English football could soon reach another extraordinary chapter. The Welsh club, owned by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, are reportedly preparing ambitious transfer plans should they secure promotion to the Premier League.
According to TEAMtalk, Wrexham have identified Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson and Fulham attacking midfielder Harry Wilson as potential free-agent signings if they successfully complete their push for top-flight football.
Currently sitting sixth in the Championship table, Wrexham are fighting to secure a place in the end-of-season play-offs.
If they manage to win promotion, it would mark an unprecedented fourth consecutive rise through the English league pyramid, a feat rarely seen in modern football.
Wrexham are a remarkable football story
Since Reynolds and McElhenney took ownership in 2021, Wrexham have transformed from a National League side into one of the most talked-about clubs in Europe.
The duo’s investment, global marketing appeal, and the popularity of the Welcome to Wrexham documentary have significantly boosted the club’s profile.
On the pitch, the project has been equally impressive. Strategic recruitment and strong leadership have allowed the club to climb rapidly through the divisions.
Andy Robertson of Liverpool in action (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Among the players reportedly on their radar are Robertson and Wilson.
Robertson has been one of Liverpool’s most influential defenders over the past decade, playing a key role in the club’s Premier League and Champions League triumphs.
If available as a free agent, his leadership and experience could prove invaluable for a newly promoted side.
While promotion remains the immediate priority, the club’s leadership is already preparing for what life in the Premier League might require.
Sources in the industry indicate that Manchester City have already held informal talks with people close to the player, but despite this interest, Pavlovic’s priority remains to stay with Bayern Munich.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
I’ve also been told that Chelsea are expected to open discussions with the Bundesliga champions directly in the coming weeks, though any negotiations are unlikely to lead to a breakthrough given the player’s stance and Bayern’s position.
The 21-year-old German international midfielder has publicly stated that he can envision spending his entire career at Bayern. He emphasized that as long as the club continues to meet his ambitions, there would be no reason to seek a transfer. These remarks have significantly cooled speculation about a summer departure and underline Bayern’s determination to keep him at the heart of their long-term project.
Aleksandar Pavlovic Bayern exit looks unlikely at this stage
Pavlovic is under contract with Bayern until 2029, a factor that strengthens the club’s hand in any potential negotiations. His current market value is estimated at €65 million, a figure that explains the strong interest from England but also highlights the financial challenge of prising him away from Munich.Bayern, however, have no intention of cashing in on their rising star, instead viewing him as a cornerstone for both domestic success and European ambitions.
On the pitch, Pavlovic has already proven his worth. In the 2025/26 Bundesliga season so far, he has made 19 appearances, contributing three goals and one assist. At international level, he has earned nine caps for the German national team, scoring once. Despite still being at the early stages of his career, his consistency and maturity beyond his years have made him a firm fan favourite at the Allianz Arena.
While Premier League clubs continue to monitor his situation, Pavlovic’s words and Bayern’s firm stance make a summer transfer highly improbable. The midfielder looks set to remain in Bavaria, where he is expected to play a central role in shaping the club’s future.
Real Madrid are reportedly determined to strengthen their squad with a top young talent this summer, with Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly one of their priorities.
The 20-year-old has shone for Man City since becoming more of a first-team regular this season, showing that he can flourish in a variety of different positions.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
According to Fichajes, this has led Real Madrid to take a serious look at O’Reilly ahead of this summer, with the Spanish giants’ recruitment team rating him very highly.
At the same time, however, it’s hard to imagine City being prepared to let the England international go any time soon.
O’Reilly’s contract at the Etihad Stadium runs until 2030, so MCFC should be in a reasonably strong position with this one.
Nico O’Reilly transfer is not something Manchester City should consider
O’Reilly’s remarkable rise this season surely shows he’s too important for the club to let go, with their academy often producing fine talents.
Phil Foden has been the best example of this, but we’ve also seen Rico Lewis doing well in the first-team, while others such as Cole Palmer, Liam Delap, and Romeo Lavia have left the club and gone on to do well elsewhere.
O’Reilly looks like he’s more than capable of emulating players like Foden and Palmer in becoming a top performer at the highest level.
Whether he does that at City or elsewhere remains to be seen, but it’s hard to imagine Madrid being able to get this ambitious deal done at this moment in time.
Could PSR tempt Man City into Nico O’Reilly sale?
One key element of the modern game, however, is the PSR regulations that tempt clubs into cashing in on homegrown players.
Someone like O’Reilly would potentially bring in a lot of money for City, and would also count as pure profit as he came up through their academy.
City would do well not to fall into this trap, however, as they need to put their squad first, and O’Reilly has shown he’s more than capable of contributing a lot in either defence or midfield.
Manchester United have reportedly decided against selling Mason Mount this summer, even as interest from fellow Premier League clubs continues to grow.
Mount’s time at United has been turbulent since his £55 million transfer from Chelsea in 2023.
Injuries, tactical adjustments and intense competition for midfield places have made it difficult for the England international to secure a consistent run of games.
Yet internally, the club still believes the 27-year-old can play a meaningful role in the squad moving forward.
Mount has endured a challenging period at Man United
Mount arrived at Man United with high expectations after establishing himself as one of Chelsea’s most reliable performers during their Champions League-winning era.
His reputation for relentless pressing and attacking contributions made him an appealing addition to United’s midfield rebuild.
However, injuries have repeatedly interrupted his progress. During the 2025/26 campaign, Mount has once again struggled to maintain full fitness, leaving him fighting to define his place in a team that has undergone several tactical changes under Michael Carrick.
Despite these challenges, United’s coaching staff still value his versatility. Mount can operate as an advanced attacking midfielder, a wide playmaker, or in a deeper central role when required.
Mason Mount is staying at Man United. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
Speculation surrounding Mount’s future intensified after Aston Villa and Fulham reportedly began monitoring his situation.
Unai Emery’s Villa are believed to be particularly interested, with the Spanish manager known for reviving the careers of players who struggled to find form elsewhere.
Villa’s recruitment team reportedly views Mount’s work rate and positional awareness as a strong fit for Emery’s structured tactical system.
Fulham have also been linked with the midfielder. Marco Silva’s side are understood to be exploring ways to add greater experience and creativity to their midfield options.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Fernandes surely won’t have much trouble overtaking that in the final few games of the season, and this stat is yet another reminder of just how important the Portugal international is for the Red Devils.
14 – Bruno Fernandes has now assisted 14 goals in the Premier League this season; only David Beckham has ever assisted more goals in a season in the competition for @ManUtd (15 in 1999-00). Machine. pic.twitter.com/YgL9h8ucFU
Fernandes also has seven league goals so far this season, with the 31-year-old looking simply irreplaceable, even if he’s not getting any younger.
Manchester United must keep Bruno Fernandes
We recently reported on information we’d received on Fernandes and a potential transfer out of Old Trafford this summer.
Although United’s preference is to keep Fernandes, there’s also the feeling that he could leave for the right price, perhaps around £87m, as top clubs like Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain show an interest in him.
It may already be that United are shifting their stance, with the Daily Mirror reporting on a possible bumper new contract for the former Sporting Lisbon man.
Given his influence on this team, it would surely be madness for United not to at least consider extending his stay, and making an exception for such a special player, even if he’ll be 32 next season.
Bruno Fernandes should be part of United’s midfield rebuild
Fernandes’ importance is arguably even greater now that MUFC also know Casemiro will be leaving at the end of his contract this summer.
That already means the club will need to make changes in that area of the pitch, with at least one, but perhaps two new signings needed, as Manuel Ugarte’s poor form surely means he could be replaced.
If Fernandes were also to move on, it would surely be too many changes happening all at once in such an important position in United’s squad.
Karim Adeyemi’s future at Borussia Dortmund is becoming increasingly uncertain as contract negotiations between the player and the club continue to stall.
According to German outlet Bild, the winger has yet to commit to a new deal and is reportedly hoping for a future move to the Premier League.
With his current contract entering its final year in June, Dortmund now face a familiar dilemma, convince a key player to sign a long-term extension or risk losing him at a reduced fee in the near future.
Dortmund have been attempting to secure Adeyemi’s long-term future at Signal Iduna Park, but negotiations have reportedly made little progress.
One major sticking point concerns the player’s request for a release clause to be included in any new contract.
Such clauses are common in Germany, but they can limit a club’s leverage if interest from wealthier leagues intensifies.
Dortmund are hesitant to include a clause that would make it easier for Premier League sides to trigger a transfer in the future.
The club’s patience is reportedly beginning to wear thin after months of discussions without resolution.
With the contract ticking down, Dortmund may soon be forced to decide whether to continue negotiating or consider a sale while Adeyemi still retains significant market value.
Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise has emerged as one of the most sought-after attacking players in European football, with several elite clubs monitoring his situation ahead of the summer transfer window.
According to TEAMtalk, Manchester City and Liverpool have both made contact with the German champions regarding a potential deal worth around €100 million.
Despite the interest, Bayern are reportedly standing firm. The Bundesliga club have rejected initial enquiries and made it clear that they are not currently willing to part ways with the 24-year-old, who has become a key figure in their attacking setup.
Michael Olise has enjoyed a rapid rise
Olise’s reputation has grown significantly over the past few seasons.
Known for his exceptional dribbling ability, creativity in the final third, and composure in one-on-one situations, the French-born attacker has developed into one of Europe’s most dangerous wide players.
His performances in the Bundesliga and European competitions have drawn widespread praise.
Bayern view him as an important component of their long-term attacking strategy and are therefore reluctant to entertain offers unless they receive an extraordinary proposal.
Man City are constantly evaluating options to maintain the creativity and unpredictability of their forward line, while Liverpool are looking to refresh their attacking options as they continue rebuilding their squad.
According to The Daily Mail, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool are all keeping a close eye on the Bournemouth midfielder Tyler Adams as he works his way back to full fitness following injury setbacks.
The 27-year-old United States international has only recently returned to action, featuring in three Premier League matches since making his comeback in the goalless draw against West Ham last month.
Despite the limited appearances, his reputation as an energetic and tactically disciplined midfielder has ensured he remains firmly on the radar of some of England’s biggest clubs.
Adams is known for his energy and leadership
Adams has built a reputation throughout his career as a relentless ball-winner and intelligent defensive midfielder.
Having previously impressed in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig, he established himself as one of the most reliable pressing midfielders in Europe before making the move to the Premier League.
His playing style is defined by high work rate, positional awareness, and the ability to break up opposition attacks.
These qualities have made him a key figure for the United States national team as well, where he has frequently served as captain and leader in midfield.
At Bournemouth, Adams has faced a challenging period due to injuries limiting his opportunities.
However, his return to the pitch has quickly reignited interest from clubs seeking to strengthen their midfield depth.
Bournemouth could consider offers in the region of £40 million for Adams.
That valuation shows both his Premier League experience and his international pedigree, though any potential transfer is unlikely to progress immediately.
Sources indicate that interested clubs may prefer to wait until after the FIFA World Cup before making a final move, allowing them to assess his fitness and form over a longer period.
Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie could be seen shushing Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler during a bad-tempered game in last night’s Premier League action.
The Gunners ended up winning 1-0 away to Brighton thanks to an early deflected goal by Bukayo Saka, but it was far from a vintage display from Mikel Arteta’s side.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
It seems the Seagulls boss also made this clear to Hincapie at one moment, with the Ecuador international clearly not having any of it as he gave this cheeky response…
The clip appears to show Hurzeler telling Hincapie and Arsenal to “f**king play football”, with the Gunners ace seeming amused as he tells the German tactician to keep quiet.
He added: “I will never be that kind of manager who tries to win in that way. I want to do well. I want my players to keep improving, keep playing football on the pitch.
“In the end, of course, every team will manage and waste time, but I think there has to be a limit, and the limit has to be set by the Premier League. The limit has to be set by the referees, at the moment they just do what they want.”
Stats
Brighton
Arsenal
Possession
59.9%
40.1%
Shots
11
7
Shots on target
3
2
Touches in opponents’ box
29
18
A big night in the title race between Arsenal and Manchester City
While there might be a lot of focus on Arsenal’s playing style, the reality is that they were big winners last night with three points at Brighton while their nearest rivals Manchester City surprisingly dropped points at home to Nottingham Forest.
City twice took the lead against Vitor Pereira’s side, but were twice pegged back and had to settle for a 2-2 draw.
This set of results puts Arsenal seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table, though City have a game in hand, meaning that gap could still be cut to four points.
Overall, though, it’s a huge psychological boost for Arsenal as they take control of the title race again with some strong recent results.
Liverpool have reportedly made checks on Michael Olise as the Bayern Munich winger is described as a “dream target” for the Reds.
However, it seems Liverpool are realistic about their chances of signing Olise, and currently consider a deal completely unrealistic, according to Florian Plettenberg.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
The France international has had an outstanding season for Bayern, with Plettenberg noting in his post on X that the player is currently on a total of 38 goals and assists in all competitions.
Michael Olise to Liverpool transfer looks unrealistic
“Michael #Olise remains a dream target for Liverpool ahead of the upcoming summer window, and further background checks have been made,” Plettenberg posted.
?? Michael #Olise remains a dream target for Liverpool ahead of the upcoming summer window, and further background checks have been made. However, #LFC now consider a transfer to be completely unrealistic.
“However, #LFC now consider a transfer to be completely unrealistic. He is not for sale. In addition, FC Bayern are looking to extend his contract beyond 2029, with plans to improve his current deal. Incredible 13G/25A this season yet.
“As a result, LFC are shifting their focus within the Bundesliga to Yan #Diomande.”
Diomande is another exciting talent who’s impressed in the Bundesliga, and LFC fans will just have to hope he can end up developing into a player similar to Olise.
Liverpool’s need for a new winger is clear
Whether Liverpool sign Olise, Diomande, or someone else, what’s clear is that they need a winger of this profile this summer.
In recent history, the Merseyside giants were able to rely on the goals and assists of Mohamed Salah, but it seems age is finally catching up with the legendary Egypt international.
Salah, now 33 years old, only has eight goals and seven assists in all competitions so far this season – a big drop off from the crazy figures that fired the club to the Premier League title last term.
But it’s not just Salah – there’s also been a considerable dip in form from Cody Gakpo this season, while the sale of Luis Diaz looks like more and more of a mistake as time goes on.
Olise looks better equipped than anyone to replace Salah, but it also wouldn’t make sense for Liverpool to pursue an unrealistic deal, so Diomande could be a smart alternative for the long-term.
Brighton & Hove Albion’s Pascal Gross has slammed Arsenal’s time-wasting tactics following the Gunners’ narrow 1-0 win at the Amex Stadium on Wednesday night.
The result, secured by a deflected Bukayo Saka strike in the ninth minute, saw Arsenal move seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table.
However, the victory was marred by controversy as the Seagulls’ veteran leader expressed his outrage over Arsenal’s approach to seeing out the game.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Pascal Gross on Arsenal’s time-wasting
Despite a spirited performance that saw Brighton outshoot the league leaders, they were unable to find a breakthrough against a resolute, if cynical, Arsenal defence.
Speaking to BBC Match of the Day (via BBC Sport) after the whistle, Gross was scathing in his assessment of the final stages of the match.
“In the second half, we had two or three chances. We didn’t finish the attack; it’s the only thing we missed today. We found a lot of solutions against them. We created a lot. It wasn’t the case today, so we are disappointed that we outplayed them.”
Turning his attention to Arsenal’s dirty tactics, Gross didn’t hold back:
“No words needed for that for Arsenal. I said my opinion on it. Everyone can make their own decision, but I’m sure you don’t like to watch these football games. Football fans want to see a football game, not time-wasting.”
Mikel Arteta’s side has built up a reputation for “playing dirty”
The accusations from Gross follow a growing trend this season where Mikel Arteta’s side has been criticised for utilising “dark arts” to protect narrow leads.
From goalkeepers taking an eternity over goal kicks to players going down with cramps at convenient moments, Arsenal have become experts at breaking up the flow of the game when holding a lead.
While Arteta has previously defended his side’s game management as “competitive,” the frustration at the Amex was palpable.
For Brighton, the defeat leaves them winless in five, while for Arsenal, the ugly win puts them one step closer to their first Premier League title in 22 years.
Super-sub William Osula scored a sensational 90th-minute solo goal to hand 10-man Newcastle United a 2-1 victory over Manchester United, ending Michael Carrick’s impressive unbeaten start as interim manager.
The dramatic win at St James’ Park snapped a three-game losing streak for Eddie Howe’s side and dealt a significant blow to the visitors’ hopes of cementing third place.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
William Osula wonder goal stuns Manchester United
With the game locked at 1-1 and appearing to head for a draw, Osula, who had only been on the pitch for six minutes, produced a moment of pure magic.
Collecting a long pass from Kieran Trippier near the right touchline, the Denmark U21 international embarked on a lung-busting run, weaving past several defenders before cutting inside and curling a magnificent strike into the far corner beyond Senne Lammens.
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 4, 2026
Despite playing with a numerical disadvantage for over 45 minutes, the hosts remained composed, with Aaron Ramsdale producing two world-class saves to deny Man United.
The match turned on a frantic ten-minute spell at the end of the first half. Newcastle were reduced to 10 men in the 41st minute when Jacob Ramsey was controversially shown a second yellow card for simulation.
However, just minutes later, Anthony Gordon put the hosts ahead from the penalty spot after being fouled by Bruno Fernandes.
The lead was short-lived, as Manchester United responded in the ninth minute of stoppage time.
Fernandes turned provider, whipping in a pinpoint free-kick for Casemiro to power home a header and send the teams in level at the break.
Carrick’s unbeaten run comes to an end
The defeat marks the first for Michael Carrick since taking over the reins in January, ending an eight-game unbeaten streak across his two spells as caretaker boss.
While United remain in a strong position for Champions League qualification, they failed to capitalise on Liverpool’s defeat to Wolves and Aston Villa’s defeat to Chelsea.
Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya cemented his status as a fan favorite on Wednesday night with a heartwarming gesture following the Gunners’ vital 1-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion.
Amid the high-stakes tension of a Premier League title race, the Spaniard took a moment to create a lifelong memory for one young supporter in the away end at the Amex Stadium.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
David Raya’s gesture towards young Arsenal fan
As the full-time whistle blew, signaling a hard-fought three points for Mikel Arteta’s side, the Arsenal players headed toward the traveling fans to show their appreciation.
While most were caught up in the jubilant celebrations, Raya spotted a young lad in the front row who had been cheering tirelessly throughout the ninety minutes.
As reported by BBC Sport, in a touch of class, the 30-year-old shot-stopper took off his match-worn gloves and handed them directly to the delighted youngster.
‘David Raya gives his gloves to a young lad in the jubilant away end. There were big cheers when the full-time result at Man City was confirmed.’
(Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
The gesture sparked a fresh wave of applause from the surrounding Arsenal faithful, who have increasingly warmed to the goalkeeper following his consistent performances between the sticks this season.
Raya, who kept his 14th clean sheet of the campaign in the victory, spent several additional minutes applauding the supporters after another solid performance.
A clean sheet for David Raya in his 100th Premier League appearance for Arsenal. pic.twitter.com/YBan4cuHH4
The atmosphere in the away end shifted from celebratory to ecstatic shortly after the whistle, as news came through of a major twist in the title race.
Manchester City were held to a 2-2 draw at Etihad by Nottingham Forest, a major setback for Pep Guardiola’s side.
The combination of results means Arsenal have now opened up a significant seven-point lead at the top of the Premier League table with only a handful of games remaining.
It was far from a vintage performance from the North London side, with Bukayo Saka’s early goal proving to be the only difference in what many pundits described as an “ugly” win.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
However, they have come to realise that they might have to sell at the right price. It remains to be seen where he ends up. The Ivorian is regarded as a phenomenal young talent, and he has the potential to develop into a world-class player.
Liverpool need Yan Diomande
Liverpool need more quality on the flanks, especially with the decline of Mohamed Salah. The 19-year-old could be the ideal addition for them. He will add explosive pace and flair to the team. The opportunity to join Liverpool will be exciting for him as well. The player has publicly admitted that he is a boyhood Liverpool fan.
Meanwhile, Manchester United need more quality on the flanks as well. They need to add more unpredictability in the final third. They are well placed to secure Champions League qualification, and they will have the project and the finances to attract the player. It will be interesting to see what the attacker decides.
Meanwhile, the German club will demand a substantial sum for him. A fee of around £80 million could be required to get the deal done. The player has 14 goal contributions this season, and he will only improve with coaching and experience. The Ivory Coast international could be a star for either club.
It remains to be seen where he ends up. He will look to join an ambitious project where he can win major trophies.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Victor Osimhen linked with summer move
German champions Bayern Munich appear to be leading the race for his signature, and it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done. They are looking to sign a quality long-term replacement for Harry Kane, and the Nigerian has emerged as a target.
Meanwhile, Manchester United could use another striker in the summer. They need to replace Joshua Zirkzee, and it will be interesting to see who they end up signing. The Nigerian would have been an exceptional acquisition. He is at the peak of his career, and he could have made an immediate impact.
The player currently earns €20 million per season, and it will be interesting to see if the German champions are willing to break the Bank for him. Manchester United have the finances to offer him a lucrative deal, but it seems that they are not too keen on the move right now. It will be interesting to see if the stance changes in the summer.
Manchester United are currently focused on securing Champions League football for the next season. They will look to plug the gaps in the squad during the summer transfer window and bounce back strongly next season. Someone like Osimhen could make a defining impact for them.
Chelsea and Newcastle United are interested in signing the former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez.
The player is desperate to leave Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal in the summer, and it will be interesting to see if Chelsea or Newcastle can bring him back to the Premier League. He is struggling with the lack of regular gametime, and he needs to change clubs in the summer.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Darwin Nunez set for Europe return
According to a report via TMW, clubs from Italy are also monitoring his situation. The 26-year-old is at the peak of his career, and he could be a very useful addition for most teams.
Even though he was not a prolific goal scorer in the Premier League, he was quite effective in the final third. He is a hard-working player who will help create opportunities for his teammates and affect the game with his pressing abilities as well.
Nunez knows the Premier League well, and he could make an immediate impact. He won the league title with Liverpool last season. The opportunity to join Chelsea or Newcastle could be exciting for him. Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in the country, and they could provide him with the platform to compete at a high level regularly. On the other hand, Newcastle has an ambitious project and is one of the richest clubs in the world.
It will be interesting to see where the striker ends up. He will look to join a club where he will be a regular starter. Meanwhile, he could be available for a reasonable fee given his situation at Al-Hilal. It remains to be seen which of the two Premier League clubs can get the deal done.
Moving to Italy could be exciting for him as well.
Astro Villa are interested in signing Harry Wilson at the end of the season.
The 28-year-old will be a free agent in the summer, and they have already held ‘initial talks’ with the player regarding a free transfer, as per Fabrizio Romano. The 28-year-old has been spectacular this season, with 17 goal contributions.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
The Welsh attacker will want to compete at a high-level, and this could be the right time for him to join Aston Villa. They are pushing for Champions League qualification, and they have an ambitious project. They also have a top-class manager like Unai Emery. Wilson will look to establish himself as an important player for Aston Villa and to compete regularly in the Champions League.
The opportunity to sign a player like him for free would be a masterstroke for the West Midlands club. He will help them improve, going forward without significant investment. Sunderland is also keeping tabs on Wilson.
The player is at the peak of his career and well settled in the Premier League. He could hit the ground running at Aston Villa and help them improve immediately.
Fulham will be disappointed to lose a player like him for free, but they are powerless to stop him from leaving because of his contract situation. It will be interesting to see if Aston Villa can convince the player to join the club.
Aston Villa will need more depth in the team if they want to compete in the Champions League regularly, and someone like Wilson could be the ideal utility man for them.
Virgil van Dijk was left visibly fuming after Liverpool’s defensive collapse led to a 94th-minute winner for Wolverhampton Wanderers on Tuesday night.
The Reds’ captain appeared to single out 17-year-old sensation Rio Ngumoha in the immediate aftermath of Andre’s deflected strike, capping off a nightmare evening at Molineux.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
While Curtis Jones has also been blamed for his poor pass leading to the goal, Leon Osman noted how Van Dijk was seen berating Ngumoha, who had replaced Cody Gakpo in the 65th minute.
“You see Virgil van Dijk’s reaction here. He’s so furious with Ngumoha,” noted former Everton midfielder Leon Osman on Premier League Productions.
“I think it was the effort or not being able to get a bit closer and put André under a bit more pressure when he initially lifted it and took the ball.”
Ngumoha, who had almost become the hero minutes earlier when his goal-bound effort was tipped onto the post by Jose Sa, was seen on the receiving end of a berating from his captain for failing to track Andre’s run from midfield.
Despite the criticism, club legend Steven Gerrard later jumped to the youngster’s defence, insisting he “has to start” the next game after providing more of a spark than many of his senior teammates.
Virgil van Dijk and Konate blamed for Wolves opener
The late winner was not the only point of contention for the Liverpool backline. Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard was scathing in his assessment of the opening goal, where Tolu Arokodare appeared to outmuscle Van Dijk in the air to set up Rodrigo Gomes.
“I don’t think it’s a foul. He [Van Dijk] has got to be a lot stronger in that situation,” Gerrard told TNT Sports.
"I don't think it was a foul. He has to be stronger" ?
Steven Gerrard questions the defending from Ibrahima Konaté and Virgil van Dijk for Wolves’ opener.
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 3, 2026
He also questioned Ibrahima Konaté’s positioning, noting that the Frenchman gravitated toward the ball, leaving Gomes in acres of space to dink his finish over Alisson.
The defeat marks the fifth time this season Liverpool have lost a game to a stoppage-time goal, a new Premier League record.
With a rematch in the FA Cup looming this Friday, Van Dijk and his defense will be under immense pressure to prove that this “sloppy” performance was a one-off.
How La Liga’s Squad Wage Bill Transforms Barcelona and Real Madrid
Squad Cost Limit was introduced in La Liga in 2013, but the 2025-26 season really drives home the significance of this regulation. This rule has taken Barcelona and Real Madrid on different paths. What was originally a local financial regulation has evolved to affect the position of both clubs in the overall European scheme.
It’s not just about what appears on the pay envelope. The matter is the entire cost of the team. It’s salary, social security, the amortization of the cost of the transfer fees over the length of the contract, bonuses, and the costs associated with the reserves and the academy.
This method of money management is nothing new. It’s relevant to any field you can imagine. Even if you’re just looking for a review of a good place to gamble in the UK, money management is key. A proper way to do this is by working with the demo versions of various slots. And then you can take risks by playing for money.
Immediate Financial Impact: Two Clubs, Two Realities
Real Madrid entered the window with more breathing space than in the previous one. Barcelona, however, hit a ceiling underneath the expected figure as the VIP agreement, which would’ve boosted them to a higher figure, is still waiting for approval and hasn’t been factored into the prediction.
Part of the explanation for this disparity comes down to several converging factors:
The new stadium has significantly increased the club’s income.
Improved sponsorship deals have added to overall revenue.
Barcelona only breached the €1 billion mark in turnover last season, but the debts accrued under Bartomeu still restrict the size of their wallet. Lower down the pecking order, sides such as Villarreal bank on their European adventure to contain their ceiling, sales their only option. Especially while Sevilla remains more vulnerable as they persist in seeking financial equilibrium.
Transfer Strategy Adjustments
The two clubs have responded to their contrasting positions with markedly different approaches to squad building. The 1:1 rule – which requires Barcelona to save €1 for every €1 spent when operating above their limit – has made the club’s transfer philosophy a study in pragmatic constraint:
Without transfer fees and the end of contract signings to avoid the costs of amortization.
Loan deals that allow talent acquisition without immediate financial registration.
Cost-shifting performance-based contract arrangements into later fiscal periods.
Promotees, including Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez, to reduce the need for external recruitment.
Real Madrid, with their financial backing, signed Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Franco Mastantuono, and Alvaro Carreras during the summer window, as well as several La Fabrica youth prospects into the Champions League squad on List B. This is not only a tactical switch; it is a completely different mindset with the SCL system.
Competitive Implications
The financial disparity is forming a tiered competitive system. Clearly, the two-club duopoly that has long dominated Spanish football is under threat. Atletico Madrid’s financial situation continues to improve while Barcelona’s remains constrained.
The Squad Cost Limit is active only in the territory of Spain. In Europe, Barcelona and Real Madrid compete by completely different financial regimes:
Club
League
Primary financial framework
Spending dynamic
Real Madrid
La Liga
Squad Cost Limit
Capped by domestic rules
FC Barcelona
La Liga
Squad Cost Limit
Further restricted by prior debt
Bayern Munich
Bundesliga
UEFA FFP only
No domestic salary cap
Manchester City
Premier League
PSR rules
Higher permitted outlay
Arsenal
Premier League
PSR rules
Higher permitted outlay
This disparity may not win matches on the day. But it certainly impacts the team’s depth, the attractiveness of the very best free agents, and the ability to cope with the loss of their stars without sacrificing overall quality.
Long-Term Strategic Effects
The long-term impact of the SCL system could be the quietest and most impactful: it could make the case for investing in the youth more attractive to clubs as a strategic decision rather than an emotional one. Both teams are committing more to youth development, not only because they want to, but also because the numbers make more sense.
A youth graduate costs the team nothing in transfer fees, incurs no amortization costs, and is signed without violating the spending limits on new signings. For Barcelona, with its limits of half of Madrid’s cap this year, La Masia is no longer a “nice-to-have” but a “must-have” from a spending perspective. For Real Madrid’s La Fabrica, several youth graduates are already starting in the team’s Champions League squad.
For the revenue side, the numbers work the same way: a team’s SCL is based on income, which means any avenue to increase revenues raises the spending limits – sponsorships, merchandising, and digital content included. And both teams understand this concept all too well:
Barcelona’s ongoing stadium renovation at Spotify Camp Nou targets higher matchday and VIP revenue that would directly increase their SCL.
Real Madrid’s expanded Bernabeu already generates premium revenues that contribute to its comfortable financial position.
Both clubs’ global brand value makes them attractive to sponsors even during periods of sporting or financial difficulty.
The playing field may yet alter as financial prudence gradually reshapes the depth and quality of the squad. La Liga has positioned the SCL model as a corrective influence to the big-spending approach taken by the Premier League. Whether the result is a better team or a healthier bottom line remains a matter for debate.
The SCL system has reached its goal. La Liga clubs are no longer spending money as they once did, and the clubs that need the money the most are feeling the pinch straight away in their day-to-day operations, rather than as a distant threat of regulatory action. Sevilla’s €22m limit is the most obvious example.
For Barcelona and Real Madrid, the legacy of the SCL system has been a split that neither club could have predicted. Real Madrid has the real financial muscle in Spain, with its limit more than twice that of its longtime rival. Barcelona has entered a new era of rebuilding that has changed the way the club operates in several areas:
transfer market activity and the scale of deals it can pursue;
negotiations with players over contracts and wage structures;
reliance on the academy as a cost-effective route to first-team quality.
But the key to the legacy of the SCL system lies in the speed with which the finances of Barcelona recover to the point where the SCL system has a chance of returning to something close to its original status of competitive balance. What can be said with certainty is that the La Liga system of controlling finances is no longer a short-term measure. It’s the framework through which the two biggest clubs in Spain need to build and compete – domestically and in Europe.
Bruno Fernandes has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford, but Manchester United are hoping to keep him at the club.
According to a report from The Mirror, they are ready to offer him a bumper contract of around £400,000 a week. However, they have not yet been able to convince the midfielder. The Portuguese international wants to gauge the club’s ambition before signing a new contract. He wants them to secure Champions League qualification first, and he is also looking to see how the managerial situation develops.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Bruno Fernandes wants Carrick to stay
Michael Carrick has done an excellent job since taking over at Manchester United, and Fernandes has a good relationship with him. He is hoping for the 44-year-old to get the job permanently. It will be interesting to see what the club hierarchy decides.
They will need to convince Fernandes with their decisions in order for him to commit his future to the club. He has been a key player for Manchester United, and losing him would be a huge blow. They must do everything in their power to keep him at the club for as long as possible. He is one of the best players in the Premier League, and he could help Manchester United fight for major trophies next season.
Manchester United are pushing for Champions League qualification, and they will look to finish the season strongly. They have shown great improvement under the new manager, and they will look to build on their recent run of form.
Harry Maguire has been handed a 15-month suspended prison sentence following a long-awaited retrial in Greece, nearly six years after the original incident.
The verdict was delivered on Wednesday by an appeals court on the island of Syros, marking a fresh development in the ongoing legal battle involving the Manchester United defender.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Court finds Harry Maguire guilty after retrial in Greece
According to The Guardian, the three-member panel of judges upheld Maguire’s conviction for non-serious assault, resisting arrest and attempted bribery.
However, the court reduced his original 21-month sentence to 15 months and 20 days, with the punishment remaining suspended. A mandatory fine of €1,500 was also imposed.
The prosecution, led by Ioannis Paradisis, welcomed the ruling and stated that “justice was done” for the Greek police officers involved in the 2020 incident.
Maguire’s legal team have already confirmed their intention to appeal to Greece’s Supreme Court, with the 32-year-old continuing to maintain his innocence.
Under Greek law, the initial conviction had been nullified once the appeal process began, but this latest verdict reinstates his guilty status unless overturned.
Maguire has consistently claimed that the confrontation began after he feared his sister had been injected with a “rape drug” by a group of men.
The 32-year-old previously told the BBC he was “scared for his life” during the arrest, alleging that plainclothes officers did not identify themselves and treated him aggressively.
Under Greek law, the filing of the appeal automatically nullified the initial conviction, but this latest verdict re-establishes his guilty status unless the Supreme Court intervenes.
Michael Carrick hints at Harry Maguire contract extension
Away from the courtroom, Maguire remains a central figure at Old Trafford.
Carrick recently described Maguire as an “impressive character” and hinted that talks over a potential contract extension could follow.
“Harry has had a great career so far and hopefully there is a lot more to come,” Carrick said.
Reports suggest that while a wage adjustment may be required to align with the club’s evolving financial structure under INEOS, there is a strong desire within Manchester United to retain the experienced centre-back beyond the expiry of his current deal in June 2026.
For now, though, attention remains split between Maguire’s future at United and the next stage of his legal appeal in Greece.
Chelsea is interested in signing Julian Hall from the New York Red Bulls Academy at the end of the season.
According to SportsBoom, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur have been monitoring the talented young attacker, and it will be interesting to see where he ends up.
The report claims that the player is valued at around €20 million, and he is considered “untouchable” by RBNY. He is a tremendous talent with a bright future, and he could prove to be a solid long-term acquisition for all three clubs.
Hall could be tempted to move to the Premier League in the summer. It would be the ideal next step in his career, and he would get to join a big club. Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to play for them will be exciting. Even though he might not be a regular starter for them, the 17-year-old could be a future acquisition.
He has the potential to become a reliable Premier League attacker, and Chelsea could help him further develop. The reported asking price seems reasonable for a player of his quality. The €20 million investment could look like a bargain in future.
Manchester City and Tottenham could also be attractive destinations for the young attacker. They could offer him the platform to showcase his qualities in the Premier League in future.
Hall is more than just a finisher, and he can help create opportunities for his teammates as well. His ability to hold the ball up and bring others into the play makes him a complete forward. Whoever ends up signing him could have a future star on their hands.
Thomas Frank may not be out of work for long, with Crystal Palace reportedly identifying the former Tottenham Hotspur boss as a top candidate to succeed Oliver Glasner.
Frank, who was dismissed from his role in North London just weeks ago, is said to be eager for a swift return to the dugout to restore his reputation following a challenging eight-month stint at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Crystal Palace shortlist Thomas Frank for managerial role
According to The Sun, the Eagles have a “clear profile” for their next appointment: a manager with proven Premier League experience and playing style similar to the one Glasner has implemented during his tenure.
Frank has emerged as a frontrunner on a shortlist that reportedly includes names like Kieran McKenna and Gareth Southgate.
Despite his recent struggles, the Palace hierarchy believes Frank’s ability to build a cohesive team unit makes him a perfect fit for their current squad.
For Frank, the move represents a chance at redemption in a “project” environment more akin to his successful years across London at Brentford.
Frank’s CV still impressive after Brentford transformation
The interest from Palace is largely fueled by Frank’s remarkable body of work with the Bees.
After taking over in 2018, he transformed Brentford into one of the most efficient and tactically disciplined units in English football.
He famously led the club to Premier League promotion in 2021 and subsequently consolidated their status among the elite with a series of historic results, including a 4-0 thrashing of Manchester United and an opening-night win over Arsenal.
During his time at Brentford, he praised Oliver Glasner’s side for their consistency despite limited resources.
He said: “I need to praise Crystal Palace because they have been in the Premier League for the last eight years and have been very consistent in everything they do.
“They have a low budget and constantly produce good performances in the last eight years. It is very impressive what they have achieved.
“It is going to be very difficult. Selhurst Park is one of the most difficult places to go in the Premier League. They will be on top of us from the first minute and a very strong counter-attacking team.”
Manchester United are hoping to sign Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United, and they are ready to pay a premium for him.
According to SportsBoom, Arsenal and Liverpool are interested in the 25-year-old English attacker as well, but Manchester United would be prepared to spend £80 million in order to get the deal done.
They are looking to add more quality and depth on the flanks. Gordon has established himself as a quality player in the Premier League, and he could help Manchester United improve. He will add peace, flair, and goals to the team. The Englishman has proven himself in the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League. There is no doubt that he is ready to join a bigger club. Manchester United could be the ideal move for him.
They are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and they could provide him with the platform to fight for trophies. They are well placed to secure Champions League qualification for the upcoming campaign, and Gordon is likely to be attracted if there is a concrete proposal from Manchester United on the table. Newcastle have an ambitious project, but they are not quite at that level yet.
Arsenal and Liverpool need more quality on the flanks as well. They are likely to be attractive destinations for the attacker. It will be interesting to see what he decides. All three clubs have the financial muscle to pay a premium for the Newcastle star.
Newcastle will not want to lose a player like him, but they could be under pressure if a suitable offer comes in.
Newcastle and Aston Villa are interested in signing the Sunderland attacker Chemsdine Talbi.
According to a report from SportsBoom, the player is likely to cost around €55 million, and the two English clubs are leading the race for his signature. It will be interesting to see if they are prepared to pay the asking price for him.
Talbi has impressed in the Premier League with Sunderland, and there is no doubt that he could help Aston Villa and Newcastle improve as well. They need more quality on the flanks, and Talbi will add peace and unpredictability going forward. The 20-year-old has five goal contributions in the league this season.
The player averages 4.2 successful dribbles per game and could add a new dimension to both clubs’ attacking units. Talbi has been labelled as an “elite” modern winger. The reported asking price seems quite expensive for him, and it remains to be seen whether Newcastle or Aston Villa is willing to pay.
Talbi certainly has the quality to help them improve and justify the investment in future. Meanwhile, Sunderland will not want to lose an important player like him. However, they could be tempted by a lucrative offer. They have done quite well since promotion, and they are chasing a respectable finish in the Premier League table.
It will be interesting to see whether they can hold on to their best players beyond this season. It will certainly help establish themselves as regulars in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Talbi could be excited about the prospect of joining Aston Villa or Newcastle. Both clubs have exciting projects, and they could provide him with the platform to compete at a high level. Aston Villa, in particular, is chasing Champions League qualification, and they could be an attractive destination.
Newcastle are one of the wealthiest clubs in the country, and they have an ambitious project as well.
RB Leipzig attacking midfielder Christoph Baumgartner has been linked with a move away from Germany, and Everton is hoping to sign the player.
According to a report from SportsBoom, the 26-year-old is keen on a move to the Premier League, and it will be interesting to see if Everton can wrap up the move. The fact that he wants to move to England will come as a huge boost for the Merseyside outfit. They will hope to secure his signature in the coming months.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Everton could use Christoph Baumgartner
They need more creativity and goals from the middle of the park, and the 26-year-old would be ideal for them. He has recorded 14 goals in all competitions, and he has the physicality and technical attributes for English football as well. He could prove to be an excellent acquisition for Everton.
Clubs in Italy are also monitoring his progress. It will be interesting to see if they come forward with an acceptable offer for the player in the summer. The fact that the player prefers a move to the Premier League will encourage clubs like Everton. They will also face competition from Brighton. It will be interesting to see where the Austrian midfielder ends up.
Everton have a competitive project and could be tempted to join them in the summer. The Toffees will be hoping to agree on a reasonable deal to sign the player. He will have two years left on his current contract at the end of this season, and the German outfit will be under pressure to consider suitable offers. It remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.
Manchester United has been linked with multiple managers in recent months.
Michael Carrick has done a stellar job since taking over, with a win rate of 85.7%. Manchester United are well placed to secure Champions League qualification for the next season, and a report from TEAMtalk claims that he is in the box seat to manage the club next season. However, Manchester United are still looking at multiple options.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Man United looking at Julian Nagelsmann among others
Niko Kovac and Julian Nagelsmann have been mentioned as potential options. The 38-year-old German manager is reportedly keen on taking over at Old Trafford. He is currently the manager of the German national team, and he is expected to return to club management in the summer.
It will be interesting to see if Manchester United is willing to persist with Carrick beyond this season. He has certainly earned the trust of the club hierarchy, and he deserves the opportunity to manage the club in the long term. The 44-year-old has turned things around at Old Trafford since his arrival, and the players are enjoying their football under him.
It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Nagelsmann could be an excellent appointment as well. He has shown his quality in the Bundesliga and with the German national team. The opportunity to manage in the Premier League will be tempting for him, and it is no surprise that he is open to the job.
Manchester United need to choose their next manager carefully if they want to fight for major trophies. Perhaps a bit of stability with Carrick could do them a world of good.
Chelsea are looking to sign the Hoffenheim striker Fisnik Asllani during the summer transfer window.
The 23-year-old has done quite well for the German club, and he is on the radar of Tottenham and Aston Villa as well. According to a report from Fussball Daten, Chelsea have prepared a “priority file” for the 23-year-old striker and are looking to finalise the deal. He will cost around €30 million because of a clause in his contract, and the report claims that a move for that kind of money would be a “bargain of the century”.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Chelsea could use Fisnik Asllani
It will be interesting to see if Chelsea can wrap up the move in the summer. They need another quality striker, especially with the way Liam Delap has performed. The summer signing has been quite underwhelming for Chelsea, and they need an upgrade on him.
Asllani has proven his quality in German football, and he has the physicality and technical attributes to succeed in the Premier League as well. He could form a quality partnership with Joao Pedro at Chelsea. The Blues have the financial muscle to get the deal done as well. Asllani has 15 goal contributions this season.
Meanwhile, Tottenham are interested in the player, but they are going through a rough patch. They are fighting for survival in the Premier League. Asllani might prefer to join a competitive team where he can regularly fight for trophies. Chelsea is pushing for Champions League qualification, and they will be an attractive destination for the player.
It will be interesting to see if Chelsea comes forward with an official proposal at the end of the season.
Aston Villa are monitoring his situation as well, and they are well placed to secure Champions League qualification. They have the finances to get the deal done as well, and they are looking for a quality long-term alternative to Ollie Watkins. It will be interesting to see where the 23-year-old attacker ends up eventually.
United have evolved from a disjointed squad into one of the most in-form teams in the Premier League.
The dramatic turnaround has sparked questions among the United faithful, is it too late to mount a sensational charge for the Premier League title and catch a high-flying Arsenal?
Michael Carrick has made Man United competitive
Carrick’s tenure so far has been nothing short of a masterclass in crisis management.
Rather than overcomplicating his approach, the former United midfielder has taken the squad back to basics, completely revitalising the dressing room in the process.
Players who looked entirely devoid of belief earlier in the campaign are suddenly playing with swagger and aggression.
While United’s form is staggering, bridging the gap to the top of the table is a monumental task.
However, when Carrick was asked about catching league leaders Arsenal, he said, as reported by Simon Stone:
“Listen, you can’t rule anything out in football, but we’ve got to be realistic. We’ve just got to try and keep winning games and see. Above us now there’s two fantastic teams. There’s some really good teams in and around us. We’ve had a good run, we’re certainly not getting carried away in. You’ve got to be patient but you’ve got to be living in the moment a little bit. Wherever that’s going to take us, we’ll just have to see. But we’ll keep pushing anyway.”
When Manchester United sacked Ruben Amorim in January after a dismal 14-month spell, few could have predicted the immediate and drastic turnaround under interim manager Michael Carrick.
Fast forward to March, and the club legend has entirely transformed the mood at Old Trafford, rocketing the Red Devils back into the Premier League’s top three and firmly establishing himself as a prime candidate for the permanent managerial role.
Since taking the reins, Carrick’s impact has been nothing short of a revelation.
Man United are currently unbeaten in his seven Premier League games in charge, securing an astonishing 19 points out of a possible 21 (six wins, one draw).
Their recent gritty 2-1 comeback victory over Crystal Palace, where the team rallied from an early deficit, pushed United up to third place, putting them firmly in the driver’s seat for Champions League qualification.
Michael Carrick opens up on his future
Carrick’s near-perfect audition has given the INEOS hierarchy a massive, albeit welcome, headache ahead of the summer.
Transfer news expert Fabrizio Romano reported Carrick as saying:
“I love being here and doing what I’m doing. I don’t make decisions to get quick short-term results. My responsibility, no matter how long my tenure lasts, is to make the decisions that are best for the club in the long term.”
Arsenal’s summer transfer plans could take an unexpected turn, with reports suggesting the club are pushing hard to sign Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon.
According to a source on X, negotiations are progressing rapidly, but Newcastle have reportedly responded with a bold counter-demand, insisting that Gabriel Martinelli be included in any potential deal.
Both Gordon and Martinelli are among the Premier League’s most dynamic wide attackers, and a swap involving the two would represent a significant shift for both clubs.
With Mikel Arteta looking to strengthen his attack in the summer, Gordon has emerged a player that the Gunners are targeting due to his versatility to play in a number of different positions and his high potential.
Arsenal step up interest in Anthony Gordon
Gordon has developed into a key player at Newcastle since his move from Everton.
He is a player who can play on both the wings, as well as up front to lead the attack.
Gordon’s work rate and ability to attack space could complement Arsenal’s fluid attacking structure, which often relies on wide players to create overloads and isolate defenders.
Gabriel Martinelli in action for Arsenal (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Newcastle, however, are not believed to be eager sellers. Backed by ambitious ownership and with long-term goals of establishing themselves among Europe’s elite, the club are reluctant to weaken their squad without a significant return.
Newcastle would consider negotiations only if Martinelli were included in the deal.
The Brazilian winger has been one of Arsenal’s best performers in recent seasons, combining explosive pace with intelligent movement and a strong goal threat from wide areas.
The claim that Newcastle would be willing to make Martinelli their highest-paid player highlights how highly they reportedly value the 24-year-old.
His age, Premier League experience, and attacking output make him an attractive long-term option for any ambitious club.
Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard hasn’t minced his words following the Reds’ disastrous 2-1 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers, taking direct aim at Cody Gakpo’s lackluster performance and calling for a change in the form of highly-rated winger Rio Ngumoha.
Speaking as a pundit in the aftermath of the Molineux shocker, the former Liverpool captain expressed his frustration at the team’s toothless attack, which struggled to break down a low-block Wolves side until Mohamed Salah’s fleeting equaliser.
‘For 65 minutes Liverpool were desperate tonight, really poor, didn’t create enough, didn’t play at the right speed or the right tempo, didn’t have enough quality,’ Gerrard told TNT Sports, as reported by Metro.
‘He has to start Ngumoha now. He has to start him because he’s coming on and he’s doing more in a short cameo in a short space of time than Gakpo’s doing in 65, 70 minutes.
‘He deserves to start now. He’s got to start the kid on Friday night [in the FA Cup].’
Instead of continuing to rely on senior players who are out of form, Gerrard urged Slot to look toward the club’s academy, specifically championing 17-year-old Ngumoha.
Since his highly publicised move from Chelsea’s academy in the summer of 2024, Ngumoha has been tearing it up in Liverpool’s youth ranks, drawing attention for his explosive pace, one-on-one ability, and fearlessness.
Arne Slot needs to sort out his team’s attacking issues
Cody Gakpo in action for Liverpool vs Burnley (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
With the top-four race tightening and an immediate FA Cup rematch against Wolves looming this Friday, the pressure to find a spark in the attacking third is much needed for the defending Premier League champions.
Gerrard’s comments are not just his feelings but most fans on social media have also called on the manager to make changes to the team’s attack and add some more pace and unpredictability to the starting line up.
With the Reds fighting for a place in the Champions League, the FA Cup and preparing for a European knock out clash against Galatasaray, things need to change quickly for Slot and his team.
Manchester United could prioritise the addition of a new left winger in the upcoming summer transfer window, with manager Michael Carrick hinting that the club may strengthen in that area as part of their squad rebuild.
The Red Devils are expected to be active in the market as they prepare for the 2026/27 campaign, aiming to build on signs of improvement after several challenging seasons.
Since stepping into the managerial role, Carrick has overseen a gradual stabilisation at Old Trafford.
Performances have become more consistent and the team’s tactical structure appears clearer.
Nevertheless, there remains a sense that further recruitment will be necessary if United are to compete consistently at the top end of the Premier League.
Michael Carricks addresses transfer plans of Man United
Speaking to the media this week, Carrick acknowledged that reinforcing the left side of the attack is something the club may consider during the summer window.
While he highlighted the versatility within his current squad, he did not dismiss the possibility of bringing in a specialist winger.
“It’s something to look at [signing a left-winger]. I think Matheus [Cunha] can play in that position. Amad can do it too. We have very good options all over the front line.”
It is interesting to see Carrick talk about the transfer plans of the club since he is not certain to get the permanent job at the club.
What should the Red Devils plan for the left-wing?
Matheus Cunha of Man United celebrates scoring (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Both players have featured in wide roles at times this season, but neither is traditionally a fixed left winger.
Cunha is naturally more comfortable operating as a central attacking midfielder or second striker, where his creativity and link-up play can influence the game.
Amad Diallo, meanwhile, thrives in a more fluid attacking role, drifting between positions rather than staying wide.
For a team looking to improve its attacking balance, the addition of a natural wide player could provide greater width, stretching opposition defenses and creating more space for central attackers.
Mauricio Pochettino could be prepared for an emotional return to Tottenham, even if the club suffer relegation to the Championship, according to GiveMeSport‘s Ben Jacobs.
The Argentine coach, who previously oversaw one of the most memorable periods in Spurs’ modern history, has reportedly not ruled out the possibility of returning to north London should the opportunity arise.
Tottenham are widely expected to appoint a new permanent manager at the end of the season as the club attempts to reset following a turbulent campaign.
Tottenham face managerial uncertainty
Spurs are currently relying on Igor Tudor to guide the team through a difficult relegation battle.
The Croatian tactician was brought in to stabilise results during a challenging stretch, but reports suggest his role is widely viewed as a short-term solution rather than a permanent appointment.
Regardless of whether Tottenham remain in the Premier League or drop into the Championship, a more comprehensive managerial project is expected to begin this summer.
Several names have been linked with the role. Former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi is admired for his progressive tactical philosophy, while ex-Tottenham striker Robbie Keane has also reportedly been considered as a potential candidate.
“The good news for Tottenham fans is that, I’m told, Pochettino is open to returning, and would not necessarily be put off even if Spurs got relegated to the Championship.
“But if they were a Championship club, they’ve obviously got to be able to still afford Maurizio Pochettino’s wage, which wouldn’t necessarily drop significantly.”
Bruno Fernandes is expected to hold discussions with Manchester United at the end of the season to clarify his long-term future at Old Trafford.
According to TEAMtalk, the club captain is not actively seeking an exit, despite renewed speculation about potential interest from abroad.
The Portugal international has remained one of United’s most influential figures in recent campaigns, but with the club navigating another transitional phase, it is natural that conversations about direction and ambition are beginning to surface.
Fernandes has been a brilliant leader for Man United
Fernandes has consistently been central to United’s attacking play since arriving from Sporting CP in January 2020.
He has delivered goals, assists and leadership in equal measure, often carrying creative responsibility during challenging periods.
His work rate and intensity have made him a key presence in the dressing room, and he was appointed captain as recognition of that influence.
Last summer, Fernandes was linked with a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League, as clubs in the region continue targeting high-profile European talent.
More recently, Fernandes has spoken publicly about being open one day to playing in Italy or Spain, leagues he has long admired for their tactical depth and historical prestige.
Manchester City are keeping a close watch on Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha, according to Sky Sports Germany, as Pep Guardiola continues to refine his options in the centre of the pitch.
The 25-year-old Germany international is reportedly open to the idea of testing himself in the Premier League, even said to “dream” of playing in England’s top flight.
While no formal bid has been made, the situation is developing against the backdrop of Dortmund’s efforts to tie Nmecha down to a new and improved contract.
Nmecha is the type of midfielder Man City want
Nmecha has steadily established himself as a key figure in Dortmund’s midfield since joining from Wolfsburg.
Known for his athleticism and ball-carrying ability, he offers versatility across central roles.
He is comfortable operating as a box-to-box midfielder, capable of contributing defensively while driving forward in transition.
Guardiola has often sought players who combine physical presence with technical security.
Perhaps interest in signing him could be linked with the future of Spanish midfielder Rodri, who has attracted interest from top Spanish clubs.
Bottom-of-the-table Wolverhampton Wanderers pulled off a massive 2-1 upset against Liverpool at Molineux, dealing a heavy blow to the Reds’ Champions League qualification hopes.
Despite dominating possession, Liverpool struggled to find a breakthrough from open play against a resolute Wolves defense. The match suddenly exploded into life in the final stretches.
Gomes opened the scoring for Wolves in the 78th minute, shocking the visitors and sending Molineux into a frenzy.
Mohamed Salah finally ended his 10-match Premier League goal drought in the 83rd minute, slotting home a quick equaliser that seemingly rescued a point for Liverpool.
Disaster struck for the Reds. Following a weak clearance from Alisson, Wolves midfielder André unleashed a shot from the edge of the area in the 94th minute.
The ball took a massive, looping deflection off defender Joe Gomez, completely wrong-footing Alisson and sealing a dramatic 2-1 victory for the hosts.
Arne Slot opens up on his future at Anfield
Ahead of the match, Liverpool boss Arne Slot talked about his future and suggested that he needs more time.
“A rebuild takes time, a transition takes time, and that’s what we did last summer”.
“But we didn’t expect the league to become like it did this season. You couldn’t know this because last season it wasn’t as extreme as it is this season”.
Liverpool are now 5th in the Premier League, three points behind both Manchester United and Aston Villa.
A win against Wolves would have given them hope of a top four finish but now thing are looking difficult for them looking at their fixture list.
As for Slot, he has been unlucky with injuries to key players this season but the style of football at the club has been poor, something that Liverpool fans are not used to.
He has not only struggled to make them play attractive football like the fans want, his over all management of the squad has been shocking, with some bench players not getting the minutes they deserve.
Juventus midfielder Khéphren Thuram is expected to be one of the most closely watched players in the upcoming summer transfer window, with several Premier League clubs monitoring his situation in Turin.
The France international has grown significantly since arriving in Italy, developing into one of Europe’s most coveted box-to-box midfielders thanks to his physical dominance and ability to influence matches at both ends of the pitch.
Sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffsidethat both Liverpool and Manchester United are interested in signing the French midfielder to strengthen their squad and add depth in their midfield.
While Juventus have publicly insisted that Thuram remains a central part of their long-term project, the realities of modern football finances mean few players are entirely untouchable.
Thuram has impressed at Juventus
Since joining Juventus, Thuram has steadily established himself as a key figure in the club’s midfield structure.
Standing out for his athleticism and ball-carrying ability, the 24-year-old has added tactical maturity to his game, becoming more disciplined defensively while still offering forward thrust.
He can operate as a traditional box-to-box midfielder, shield the defence in deeper areas, or drive forward to support attacking transitions.
Arsenal’s interest appears more cautious, though the club’s recruitment department reportedly admires Thuram’s technical quality and ability to thrive in high-tempo systems.
With Juventus holding him under contract until 2029, the Italian club retain strong leverage in negotiations.
The expected valuation, between €65 million and €75 million, reflects his current importance.
Barcelona are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Tottenham Hotspur’s Micky van de Ven as Hansi Flick looks to secure a top-level, left-footed center-back this summer.
According to a report from Spanish outlet SPORT, the Dutch international has emerged as a primary alternative to Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni, whose price tag and Inter’s reluctance to sell make a deal difficult.
Barcelona eyeing Van de Ven amid Tottenham crisis
(Photo by Rob Newell – CameraSport via Getty Images)
The sports management at Barcelona has been tracking Van de Ven for months, but interest has intensified due to the club’s current crisis.
With Spurs sitting in 16th place and winless in 2026, the 24-year-old is said to be looking to leave the club this summer.
The report suggests that Van de Ven is “highly questioned” by sections of the London team’s supporters, and with the club facing the genuine threat of relegation, an early departure is increasingly likely.
Crucially, Van de Ven has reportedly prioritised Barcelona over other potential suitors, including rivals Real Madrid.
The prospect of signing a ‘world-class‘ defender at a potentially reduced price will no doubt make him a highly sought-after player.
With Ibrahima Konate’s contract situation still unresolved, Van de Ven will be a prime candidate to bolster Arne Slot’s defensive options.
Losing Van de Ven would be a huge blow for Tottenham
For Tottenham, the potential exit of Van de Ven represents a nightmare scenario.
The club is already struggling with a defensive crisis, and losing their most athletic defender would be a devastating blow to their hopes of a rebuild, regardless of which division they find themselves in next season.
What makes this a nightmare situation is the uncertain future of club captain Cristian Romero.
The Argentine is currently serving the final match of a four-game suspension following a red card against Manchester United, and reports from his home country suggest he is also keen to leave this summer.
Former manager Thomas Frank admitted before his departure that he had “no idea” if Romero would stay, and with the captain reportedly frustrated by the club’s lack of investment, Spurs face the terrifying prospect of losing both of their starting center-backs in a single window.
Stephen Warnock has pointed the finger at Curtis Jones for the defensive lapse that allowed Wolves to snatch a dramatic stoppage-time winner against Liverpool.
The 2-1 defeat at Molineux on Tuesday night has left the Reds’ Champions League ambitions hanging by a thread following a chaotic final ten minutes.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Warnock says Curtis Jones is at fault for Wolves winner
(Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
While much of the immediate post-match discussion centered on the unfortunate deflection off Joe Gomez, former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock, who also slammed Liverpool’s first-half performance, identified a critical error from Curtis Jones in the buildup.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Warnock argued that the midfielder’s decision-making put the entire defence under unnecessary pressure just as the game looked destined for a draw.
“It was a mistake from Curtis Jones. He plays a ball into Alisson and Alisson’s never going to get any purchase on it. It puts the keeper in a terrible position.”
The botched clearance eventually fell to Wolves midfielder Andre, who had looked fatigued in the closing stages.
“Andre looked heavy in the last five or so minutes, but he takes a shot and it takes a wicked deflection to loop over Alisson”, Warnock added.
The ball struck Gomez, changing trajectory completely and leaving Alisson stranded as it sailed into the net in the 94th minute.
The loss leaves Liverpool in fifth place on 48 points, now trailing fourth-placed Aston Villa by three points with only nine games remaining in the season.
For Wolves, who started the day rooted to the bottom of the table, the victory is a second straight “Midlands Derby” success following their win over Villa on Friday.
While they remain in the relegation zone with 13 points, they have moved within striking distance of safety.
Liverpool, meanwhile, must regroup quickly as they prepare to face Wolves again this Friday at Molineux, this time in the FA Cup fifth round.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Michael Carrick on his future
Meanwhile, the former Manchester United midfielder has revealed that he loves working at the club and he is not too worried about his future. He is focused on getting the best out of his team right now, and time will tell whether he will continue at the club beyond this season.
Carrick said: “There is no getting away from the situation. Of course, there’s not really an awful lot I can say about it, to be honest. I think I love being here. I love doing what I’m doing. I’ve said it from the start, I don’t, I’m not making any decisions for short-termor quick fixes. I think that it’s, it’s the responsibility, however long I’m here to make decisions the best for the football club.
“In the long term, so of course, listen, winning games helps, you know, and the boys are doing great with that. We’ll just have to see where it ends up. But there’s not really much I can give you on top of that.”
Michael Carrick applauds the Manchester United fans (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
The 44-year-old manager has certainly earned the trust of the club hierarchy with his exploits so far. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United is willing to give him the opportunity to manage the club in the long term.
If he can guide Manchester United to the Champions League for the upcoming campaign, there is no doubt that he would deserve an opportunity to prove himself in the long term
Former Aston Villa striker John Carew has revealed that Prince William played a key role in his transfer to the West Midlands club.
The striker joined the Premier League club in 2007 and was a major success story for them. He managed to score 48 goals and pick up 12 assists during his time with the English club.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
The striker has now confirmed that he met with Prince William during a dinner with the Royal family in Norway, and the Aston Villa fan convinced him to join the club. The signing worked out really well for the West Midlands outfit, and Carew was a key player for them.
John Carew on Aston Villa move
The striker spoke to Gazzetta dello Sport: “We met in Norway, during a dinner with the royal family. I remember we only talked about football, and shortly afterwards, he invited me to England to watch an Aston Villa match, his team. He convinced me to move there in 2007: for three consecutive seasons, I scored double figures in the Premier League. He admired me. In 2019, we watched the play-off final against Derby County together at Wembley, which secured our return to the Premier League.”
John Carew of Aston Villa looks on during the Barclays Premier League match between Liverpool and Aston Villa at Anfield on December 6, 2010 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
Carew managed to hit the ground running in the Premier League, and he will be remembered with fondness by the Aston Villa fans.
The Norwegian striker played for Stoke City and West Ham United after his departure from Aston Villa. He was a reliable performer in the Premier League, and Prince William will be delighted that he managed to make his mark for Villa.
The striker also made 91 appearances for his country, scoring 24 goals in the process.
Sunderland defender Omar Alderete has been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season.
The 28-year-old has done quite well for the English club, and his performances have attracted the attention of top teams. According to VS Sports, his performance against Manchester City and Liverpool was particularly impressive, and he could join a bigger club in the summer.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Can Sunderland keep Omar Alderete?
It remains to be seen whether Sunderland is prepared to sanction his departure. The 28-year-old is a key player for them, and they will not want to lose him easily. They will want to establish themselves as Premier League regulars, and they need to keep their best players at the club.
The defender could be attracted to the idea of joining a bigger club if there is a concrete proposal on the table. He is at the peak of his career, and this could be his final opportunity to join an elite club. The report does not mention which clubs are keen on the Paraguay defender it does claim that a move could materialise after the World Cup. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Sunderland will be hoping to keep them at the club for as long as possible.
Omar Alderete of Sunderland looks on during the Premier League match between Sunderland and Crystal Palace at Stadium of Light on January 17, 2026 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
They are currently fighting for their place in the top half. They have done quite well since promotion, but they have struggled in recent weeks. It will be interesting to see if they can bounce back strongly and finish the season on a high note.
Alderete has been a key player for them, and they will need players like him if they want to do well in the top flight.
Mohamed Salah finally found the back of the net to end his longest-ever goal drought, but his strike was not enough to save Liverpool from a crushing 2-1 defeat at the hands of Wolves.
In a dramatic late flurry at Molineux, the bottom-of-the-table hosts secured a massive three points that could ignite their fight for Premier League survival.
(Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 3, 2026
Salah ends longest-ever Premier League goal drought
The goal marked a massive personal milestone for Salah, as it brought an end to the most barren run of his illustrious Liverpool career.
Before tonight, Salah had failed to score in nine consecutive Premier League appearances, the longest drought since he joined the club in 2017.
His last league goal had come nearly four months ago in a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa in November 2025.
Despite his overall contribution of 16 goal involvements across all competitions this season, his lack of domestic goals had become a major talking point.
Liverpool fans will hope this clinical finish signals a return to form for their talisman.
Wolves score stoppage-time winner
The drama was far from over, however. In the 94th minute, Wolves midfielder Andre tried his luck from distance, and his shot took a wicked deflection off Joe Gomez, wrong-footing Alisson and trickling into the net to spark wild celebrations in the South Bank.
Liverpool have been shell shocked by Wolves who have scored against the run of play.
Rodrigo Gomes is the man who has put Wolves ahead with a brilliant lobbed finish over Alisson Becker.
But Virgil van Dijk will not be happy with his defending leading to the goal.
The ball is hoofed towards Tolu Arokodare who is marked by the big Dutchman. But Arokodare rather easily nudged Van Dijk away before sending Gomes through on goal, with Konate chasing him.
The Portuguese did really well to beat Konate with speed before finish with his right foot with a delicate finish.
Liverpool’s first-half performance against Wolves has been brutally slammed by former Reds defender Stephen Warnock, who described the display as “slow and boring” during a scathing live assessment.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Warnock slams ‘slow and boring’ Liverpool
(Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live at Molineux, Warnock did not hold back as the two sides headed into the interval with the scoreline deadlocked at 0-0.
While he was quick to praise the tactical setup of Rob Edwards’ Wolves side, his criticism for Arne Slot’s men was relentless.
“I just hope the half-time pies are good because that has been difficult to watch,” Warnock said.
“That has been really good from a Wolves point of view, the organization and how to make Liverpool’s lives difficult.
“But from a Liverpool point of view, so slow, so boring to watch, and that has been a tough watch. Hopefully, it will be a big improvement in the second half.”
Zero big chances created by Liverpool in a poor first half
The statistics from the opening 45 minutes paint a grim picture for the title contenders.
Despite dominating 68% of the possession, Liverpool struggled to penetrate a disciplined Wolves backline.
The Reds went into the break having created zero big chances, managing just two speculative shots on target. Perhaps most damning was the expected goals (xG) of just 0.21.
While Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo were largely anonymous, the lack of service from a midfield missing the creative spark of the injured Florian Wirtz was evident.
Wolves, currently sitting bottom of the table have dominated possession.
It has been a disappointing season for Tottenham Hotspur so far, and they could look to change managers in the summer.
Thomas Frank was shown the door recently, and Igor Tudor has been appointed as the interim manager until the end of the season. According to Football Insider, Tottenham are looking for permanent solutions, and Niko Kovac is a target.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Niko Kovac could be a useful option
The 54-year-old has done well for Borussia Dortmund, and he could be an interesting acquisition for Tottenham. The German club has no intention of letting him leave in the summer. It will be interesting to see if Tottenham decides to make a move for him.
He has managed big clubs, and he could prove to be an interesting acquisition for the north London club. The opportunity to manage in the Premier League could be tempting for him. Tottenham have quality players are there disposal and they have the resources to improve the team further. It remains to be seen whether the German manager is prepared to take on a new challenge at this stage of his career.
Head coach Niko Kovac of Borussia Dortmund (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)
Tottenham will need to bring in a quality manager in the summer. They need someone who can get the best out of their team and help them fight for trophies. They are one of the biggest clubs in the country, but they are currently fighting for survival in the Premier League.
The fans will certainly hope that they can bring in a quality manager who will help things around. For now, they will hope that Tudor can steady the ship and help them secure safety in the Premier League.
Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
The 28-year-old has been excellent for them, and he has been chosen as the captain of the club. According to Football Insider, Tottenham are looking for a replacement for Guglielmo Vicario. The Italian has been quite poor since joining the club, and he needs to be replaced.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Tottenham could use Dean Henderson
Tottenham will be hoping to bounce back strongly after a disappointing season, and they will look to fight for trophies. They need to plug the major gaps in their squad, and signing a reliable goalkeeper should be a priority. Henderson would be an excellent acquisition for them, but Crystal Palace are unwilling to sanction his departure.
It does not seem like the player is prepared to push for an exit either. It will be interesting to see if Tottenham can convince Crystal Palace with an attractive offer in the summer. The opportunity to play for the north London club could be exciting for Henderson. It would be a step up for him, and he would get to fight for trophies with Tottenham.
Even though they have struggled this season, they have quality players at their disposal, and they could bounce back strongly next season with a quality manager. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
Dean Henderson of Crystal Palace (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Henderson is at the peak of his powers, and he has proven himself in the Premier League since the departure from Manchester United. There is no doubt that he could prove to be an improvement on the Italian.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace have lost multiple key players in recent windows, and they will not want to lose the 28-year-old as well. Tottenham might have to make a lucrative proposal to convince them.
Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has caught the attention of fans and teammates alike after debuting a bold new look ahead of the match against Wolves.
The Hungarian international was spotted sporting a fresh hairstyle as the Reds arrived for their Premier League clash.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE &GOOGLE PLAY
Dominik Szoboszlai’s new Hugo Ekitike inspired hairstyle
The 25-year-old appears to have taken a leaf out of the book of teammate Hugo Ekitike.
Moving away from his usual long hair style, Szoboszlai has opted for a cornrows, similar to what his French teammate often pulls off.
(Photo by Steven Halliwell/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Images of the transformation quickly went viral after being shared by official club channels and TNT Sports.
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 3, 2026
While the ‘new hair, new me’ mantra is often a cliche in football, Szoboszlai enters the Wolves fixture with the confidence of a player currently at the absolute peak of his powers.
Szoboszlai has been Liverpool’s best player this season
While his off-pitch style is making headlines, it is Szoboszlai’s on-pitch dominance that has defined Liverpool’s 2025/26 campaign.
The midfielder has been the club’s standout performer, serving as the relentless engine in Arne Slot’s high-pressing system.
He has also become the club’s expert set-piece taker, having scored four free-kicks so far across all competitions.
The statistics certainly support the “Player of the Season” claims.
Szoboszlai has been a model of consistency, contributing 8 goals and 12 assists in all competitions so far this term.
His physical output remains unmatched; he currently leads the Premier League for distance covered per 90 minutes and ranks in the top 1% for progressive passes and shot-creating actions among midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues.
As Liverpool look to secure a vital three points at Molineux to keep their title charge on track, Slot will be hoping that his midfield talisman’s new look coincides with another masterclass in the center of the park.
Login
