I’ve been speaking with my sources about a Serie A star who could be heading to the Premier League this summer after some impressive form.

A player attracting growing interest is Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu. I’ve reported before on the Frenchman being eyed by Liverpool after his strong performances and positive scouting reports. I’m told that the Reds continue to monitor him closely as one of their top defensive targets, while Manchester United and Aston Villa are also in the mix.

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Juventus, however, are standing firm. Sources close to the Italian giants insist they “do not intend to sell Kalulu” and view him as “central” to their long-term project.

Some sources have also suggested that Juventus are preparing a new contract for Kalulu, running until 2030, which would include a salary increase to around €3.5 million net per season plus bonuses. This move would not only secure the player’s future in Turin but also protect his market value against potential offers from abroad.

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Pierre Kalulu transfer could go through for the right price

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West Ham United are currently locked in a terrifying Premier League relegation battle, and their recent crushing 3-0 defeat at the hands of Brentford has left their survival hopes hanging by a very thin thread.

As manager Nuno Espirito Santo desperately tries to rally his squad for the final few games, vultures are already starting to circle above the club.

If they are relegated, a number of West Ham players are expected to leave the club for a new challenge elsewhere.

West Ham United could lose key player

According to The Telegraph, a host of top clubs across Europe are closely monitoring 24-year-old attacker Crysencio Summerville.

If the Hammers do end up taking the dreaded drop to the Championship, the Dutch winger’s asking price is set to plummet, setting the stage for an absolute transfer frenzy.

After arriving from Leeds United back in August 2024 for a reported £25 million, his debut campaign was frustratingly derailed by injuries, including a nasty nine-month hamstring issue.

However, he has completely flipped the script during the 2025/26 season.

Despite West Ham’s collective struggles on the pitch, Summerville has been an absolute revelation, bouncing back phenomenally to bag seven goals and four assists across 31 appearances.

Beyond just his raw attacking output, he holds a massive trump card for domestic suitors, he is officially classed as a home-grown player due to his formative years spent in the Leeds academy.

With Premier League squads strictly limited on the number of non-home-grown players they can register, his technical profile combined with that elite status makes him an incredibly valuable commodity.

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Sources: Liverpool, Man United, & Aston Villa could have exciting €40m transfer opportunity

May 6 2026, 9:51

Just in: European clubs on alert as relegation could lead to major West Ham exit

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Arsene Wenger highlights decisive factor in Arsenal’s win vs Atletico Madrid

May 6 2026, 8:58

Premier League clubs are monitoring Summerville

In fact, it is already being reported that clubs like Tottenham Hotspur are spearheading a massive chase for his signature.

Ultimately, West Ham’s financial gamble on the winger looks like it will pay off individually, but the club’s top-flight status is the ultimate deciding factor here.

The Hammers will be hoping to make more than the £25m plus add-ons they paid to sign the Dutchman.

Along with Summerville, midfielder Mateus Fernandes is catching the attention of top clubs in the Premier League.

Their Premier League status at the end of the season is going to be crucial and the next few weeks will decide the future of a number of key players.

Report: Newcastle plotting raid on West Ham for their star defender 

The post Just in: European clubs on alert as relegation could lead to major West Ham exit appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has explained how the Gunners masterminded a Champions League semi-final victory over Atletico Madrid.

The legendary ex-Gunners boss says he felt that Mikel Arteta’s side’s ability to win their duels and limit Atletico Madrid’s chances ended up being key on the night.

Arsenal won 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium, and 2-1 on aggregate, booking their place in the Champions League final in Budapest later this month.

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They’ll face either Bayern Munich or Paris Saint-Germain in that game, but for now Wenger feels it’s normal to celebrate even just making it to the final.

Arsene Wenger on Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final success

“I think Arsenal wanted wanted it a bit more than Atleti and they were more decisive in the duels,” Wenger said, as quoted by the Metro.

“We said before the game that to go to the final they needed to be strong defensively and they didn’t concede a goal tonight.

“They played a team who for 45 minutes absolutely needed to score a goal and they didn’t give them a chance.

“I believe it shows how strong Arsenal are defensively and how disciplined they are, as well a bit the limitations of Atletico, who were not good enough in the final third.”

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He added: “In the end it’s a well-deserved win for Arsenal, there’s no doubt they were the better team over the two legs.

“They celebrate well tonight which is normal but you want to focus already on the final and the next games.

“The celebration is deserved and happiness is normal – absolutely normal – but the next step is to go to the final and win in.”

Arsenal have been superb in the Champions League this season, having gone unbeaten in the competition up to this point.

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Arsene Wenger highlights decisive factor in Arsenal’s win vs Atletico Madrid

May 6 2026, 8:58

The north London giants are also sitting top of the Premier League and may now be the favourites to win it after Manchester City slipped up away to Everton in their game on Monday night.

Could Arsenal now go all the way and win a Premier League and Champions League double? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

The post Arsene Wenger highlights decisive factor in Arsenal’s win vs Atletico Madrid appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Newcastle United are currently 13th in the Premier League and they have had a disastrous season by their high standards.

Qualification for Europe was their target ahead of the season, with particularly the Champions League in their sights.

However, their poor summer transfer window last year, their inconsistent form and their out of depth performances mean that they will not qualify for any European competition next season.

A crucial summer transfer window is coming for the Magpies and they are trusting manager Eddie Howe to rebuild the team.

Newcastle United prepare for a busy summer window

According to iSport, Newcastle United are gearing up for their most dramatic and significant squad overhaul since the massive Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) takeover completely transformed the club’s trajectory back in late 2021.

Crucially, the boardroom has made a massive, unified decision regarding the dugout, manager Howe is being completely backed and will be the man leading this historic summer rebuild at St James’ Park.

The group of players that miraculously dragged Newcastle away from the relegation zone and sensationally fired them into the Champions League a few seasons ago has given absolutely everything to the cause.

However, a combination of an aging core, relentless injury crises, and the incredibly grueling physical demands of competing on multiple fronts has exposed a desperate need for a refresh.

The club’s hierarchy recognises that to consistently challenge heavyweights like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Manchester United at the very summit of the Premier League, “Newcastle 2.0” needs to be built immediately.

The strict reality of the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) means the Magpies simply cannot go out and spend unlimited cash without balancing the books.

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May 6 2026, 8:58

Eddie Howe has been given the keys to the kingdom

Howe is going to have to make some deeply tough calls on fan favorites.

We can fully expect a significant clearing of the decks, with several high-earning veteran players and squad rotation options being shown the exit door to free up crucial wage bill space and generate pure profit for the transfer kitty.

This financial maneuvering will be absolutely essential to fund the influx of young, dynamic, elite-level talent the club is aggressively targeting.

Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali are both facing uncertain future at St. James’ Park.
One of Howe’s biggest job this summer will be to sort out the futures of those two key members of the squad.

European giants circle as Newcastle star receives offer ahead of summer move

The post Newcastle United make crucial Eddie Howe decision after underwhelming season appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Brentford Move Quickly for Salzburg Prospect

Brentford appear close to another calculated move in the transfer market, with Florian Plettenberg reporting that the club have reached a verbal agreement with Red Bull Salzburg for defender Jannik Schuster in a deal worth around €20 million.

At 19, Schuster already carries the profile of a modern centre back. Comfortable in possession, physically composed and trusted regularly by Salzburg, he has made 30 appearances this season while also featuring for Austria’s Under 21 side.

Photo IMAGO

Salzburg Pathway Attracts Attention

There is growing recognition around Europe that Salzburg remain one of football’s strongest development clubs. Schuster’s rise has followed a familiar route, exposure to senior football at a young age, European competition experience and tactical education in an aggressive system.

Brentford’s recruitment department has repeatedly targeted players before their market value explodes. This deal feels consistent with that strategy. Rather than chasing established names, the club continue investing in profiles capable of developing into Premier League level performers.

Plettenberg reports that “a formal agreement and official announcement are expected once the final details of the deal are completed.”

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

There will naturally be caution around spending €20 million on a teenager with no Premier League experience, but Brentford supporters have seen enough smart recruitment decisions to trust the process.

Schuster’s age is important. Brentford are not signing someone expected to dominate immediately. Instead, this looks like a long term investment with significant upside. Fans will also appreciate that the club are continuing to recruit from high level development environments rather than overpaying for domestic options.

There is another factor here too. Brentford’s defensive structure has needed refreshing at times, particularly against stronger attacking sides. A younger defender with mobility and confidence on the ball could fit seamlessly into the aggressive style supporters expect.

Much will depend on adaptation speed, but the profile makes sense. Brentford rarely move without extensive analysis, and supporters will view that as reassuring heading into another demanding Premier League campaign.

West Ham United star Crysencio Summerville is reportedly attracting interest from top Premier League clubs ahead of the upcoming transfer window. 

The Hammers could lose some of their big players this summer, as they are battling to survive in the English top-flight. 

West Ham are back in the relegation zone after a shocking 3-0 loss at Brentford last weekend. 

Summerville is expected to leave the London Stadium, despite his current contract not expiring until 2029. 

According to The Telegraph, a range of Champions League clubs in England and across Europe have shown interest in the talented forward. 

West Ham would expect to make a profit on the £25 million plus add-ons they paid for the Dutchman in 2024. 

The player’s valuation will depend on whether the Irons manage to stay in the Premier League. 

Summerville has been a key member of Nuno Espirito Santo’s side this season. He has started 26 Premier League games, bagging five goals and three assists in the process. 

Summerville is still young and is highly rated for his dribbling skills, pace and work-rate. 

He is a versatile attacker who can play across the frontline. 

Several top Premier League clubs are looking to add a quality winger this summer. 

Arsenal aim to reinforce their attack, as Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard both had underwhelming 2025-26 campaigns. 

Liverpool are expected to be in the market for a forward, with Mohamed Salah leaving the club at the end of the season.  

Manchester United could also look to add a winger, although reinforcing midfield is said to be their main priority. 

Stats from Transfermarkt 

Confidence Growing Around Ekitike Recovery

Liverpool remain convinced that Hugo Ekitike can rediscover his highest level despite the serious Achilles injury that cut short his campaign at Anfield.

The France international suffered the setback during the defeat against his former club Paris Saint-Germain, an incident that immediately cast doubt over both his short-term future and his hopes of appearing at the World Cup. Surgery has since been completed successfully, with the striker now beginning the long rehabilitation process that accompanies one of football’s most feared injuries.

Yet inside the club there is no sense of panic. According to Dominic King, Liverpool’s hierarchy believe the 23-year-old will recover fully and return to the standards he produced before the injury. Writing about Liverpool’s summer transfer plans, King explained: “Liverpool will not look to find a replacement for Hugo Ekitike.

“They are confident after successful surgery the France striker will return to the levels he showed before rupturing his Achilles tendon and it would not be their style to spend big after such huge recent expenditure in one area.”

Those words reveal much about Liverpool’s thinking heading into a critical summer. While supporters naturally worry over the timing and severity of the injury latest surrounding Ekitike, the club’s medical department and recruitment staff appear aligned in their belief that patience will be rewarded.

FOOTBALL : Paris Saint Germain vs Liverpool FC – Ligue des Champions – Quart de Finale – Match Aller – 08/04/2026 Hugo Ekitike FC Liverpool Willian Pacho Paris SG ParisFrance PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxFRAxBEL Copyright: xBaptistexAutissierx

Transfer Strategy Hinges on Fitness Outlook

Liverpool’s stance on Ekitike could shape the entire attacking structure for next season.

Arne Slot already faces uncertainty in the centre-forward department, especially with Alexander Isak also enduring physical setbacks across the campaign. Relying heavily on one senior striker would ordinarily force movement in the transfer market, particularly for a club competing on multiple fronts domestically and in Europe.

Instead, Liverpool appear reluctant to abandon the long-term investment made in Ekitike. That approach reflects a club increasingly careful with financial allocation after major spending in recent windows.

There is also recognition that elite-level recovery from Achilles injuries has improved considerably in modern sport. Rehabilitation programmes are more advanced, conditioning methods sharper and recovery timelines more manageable than they were a decade ago.

Still, caution remains essential. Achilles ruptures are not injuries players simply shake off. Explosiveness, acceleration and confidence in movement can take months to fully return. For a forward such as Ekitike, whose game relies heavily on sharp transitions and quick directional changes, regaining rhythm will be just as important as physical healing.

Challenges Facing Liverpool Attack

Supporters will understandably question whether optimism alone is enough.

Liverpool endured periods this season where attacking depth looked stretched, and Ekitike’s absence leaves a significant void. Even if recovery progresses smoothly, expectations around his return must remain realistic. Midway through next season may represent the earliest point at which he approaches full competitive sharpness.

That creates a delicate balancing act for Slot and Liverpool’s recruitment team. Signing another striker could provide insurance, but equally it risks disrupting plans centred around Ekitike’s long-term role within the squad.

The club’s faith in the Frenchman reflects how highly he is regarded internally. Before the injury latest emerged, Ekitike had shown flashes of becoming a decisive figure in Liverpool’s evolving attack. His movement between defenders, technical composure and ability to stretch defensive lines offered dimensions that Liverpool badly needed at key moments.

At 23, time is also on his side. Younger players generally recover more effectively from major injuries, particularly when rehabilitation is managed carefully and workloads are controlled correctly upon return.

Patience Could Reward Liverpool Long Term

There is little emotional comfort in long recoveries, particularly when supporters know how influential Ekitike could become. Yet Liverpool’s calm response suggests they view this setback as temporary rather than transformative.

Football history contains countless examples of careers altered by Achilles injuries, but equally there are players who returned stronger, smarter and more complete after adversity. Liverpool believe Ekitike belongs in the latter category.

For now, the focus remains entirely on rehabilitation. Every stage of recovery will be monitored closely, with Liverpool aware there can be no shortcuts. The immediate concern is not transfer headlines or external pressure but ensuring Ekitike has every possible chance to return at elite level.

If Liverpool’s confidence proves justified, the current injury latest may eventually become little more than an unwelcome interruption in what still promises to be a highly successful Anfield career.

Enzo Maresca ultimately left Chelsea for three reasons with one of them a dispute over transfers according to BBC Sport.

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The Italian left Chelsea in January after 18 months in charge, and just six months after winning the Club World Cup.

Maresca also won the Conference League and got Chelsea back into the Champions League in his first season in charge.

Enzo Maresca left Chelsea for three reasons

Chelsea weren’t planing for a mid-season departure, and the decision to appoint Liam Rosenior backfired massively.

The Englishman made a good start, but the wheels fell off very quickly and he was sacked last month following a run of five league defeats in a row without scoring.

Marc Cucurella and Enzo Fernandez had spoken out against the departure of Maresca, and it’s clear he was very popular with the players.

His departure certainly impacted the season in a negative way, and BBC Sport have revealed the three reasons Maresca ultimately left.

The report states a dispute over transfers, his salary and what he perceived as interference from the medical department over use of players were the main reasons.

Maresca is currently out of work but is widely expected to take over from Pep Guardiola as the next Manchester City manager when he eventually leaves the club.

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In other news…

It’s been reported nothing is going on between Chelsea and Xavi Hernandez, despite suggestions the Blues had reached out to the Spaniard.

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Chelsea are still in the process of deciding who their new head coach will be after sacking Liam Rosenior last month.

Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva and Xabi Alonso are three names said to feature highly in their thinking at this point in time.

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:

Jan Ziolkowski can leave Roma by June 30th. The Polish defender hasn’t found much playing time during his first season in the capital.

Gian Piero Gasperini has given him a few chances, but the 2005-born defender’s on-field performances haven’t entirely convinced the manager.

The former Legia Warsaw player has played 21 games, including a header against Panathinaikos that allowed Roma to avoid the Europa League playoffs and advance directly to the round of 16.

Roma wants to avoid selling too many big names to comply with the settlement agreement with UEFA, while also earning the appropriate capital gains by June 30.

As reported by SiamoLaRoma.it, the rumor from recent weeks has been confirmed: the Giallorossi want to sell Jan Ziolkowski before the beginning of July.

The Roman club is seeking a buyer for the Pole. Roma values ​​him at around €25 million: the goal is to sell him to avoid sacrificing at least one big name.

It remains to be seen whether the interest from several foreign clubs (one English and one French) can translate into an offer that meets the Giallorossi’s demands.

Milan legend Marcel Desailly feels Bayern Munich will win the Champions League this season and believes Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal will be dark horses at the World Cup in the summer.

With the upcoming final stages of the UEFA Champions League and exciting run-ins for the domestic leagues across Europe, the football season has entered its most thrilling phase. Predicting which teams will come out on top is a challenge for fans as well as expert former players, like Marcel Desailly. The current odds present a number of intriguing opportunities, but exploring all the relevant betting bonus options on sites like NJ sportsbook promos before cementing those predictions with the bookies is always a sensible move for smart fans.

Inter reached the Champions League Final in 2023 and 2025, but unfortunately, this season, Serie A has no representative in the semi-finals of the three European club competitions: the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League.

The crisis in Italy’s top flight mirrors the issues facing the Italian national team, which has failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third consecutive time.

Milan and France legend Desailly lifted the Champions League twice as a footballer, first at Marseille and then with the Rossoneri and has now predicted this season’s winner in Europe’s elite competition.

“I don’t know who will win, but I wish it were a different team, and I believe when I look at all the squads, it should be Bayern,” he told The Italian Football Podcast.

“Because of the consistency they’ve shown in the Bundesliga for the last two seasons, they have suffered but readjusted their philosophy to adapt to the talented squad they have.

“The consistency they have shown this season shows that to win the Champions League, you need these types of winners.

BERLIN – JULY 9: General view of the World Cup trophy prior to the FIFA World Cup Germany 2006 Final match between Italy and France at the Olympic Stadium on July 9, 2006 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

“PSG have been on and off throughout with injuries as well. Real Madrid has been a disaster in La Liga. Luckily, Barcelona made some mistakes, so they couldn’t open a 15-point lead. Barcelona’s defence is weak.”

Barcelona and Real Madrid were knocked out in the quarter-finals, losing to Atletico Madrid and Bayern, respectively.

“So today I will tell you that definitely the next winner of the Champions League will make me happy if it is Bayern Munich,” confirmed Desailly.

The former defender also won the World Cup with France in 1998, crowning an impressive playing career that included six years at Chelsea.

MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 22: Laureus World Academy Member Marcel Desailly during the EURO 2024 Press Conference prior to the Laureus World Sports Awards Madrid 2024 at the Palacio de Cibeles on April 22, 2024 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Borja B. Hojas/Getty Images for Laureus)

France won the World Cup in 2018 and reached the Final four years later, and Desailly feels they are still the team to beat, although there could be a surprise.

“I have to say France will win it, otherwise Deschamps will kill me [laughs]. Didier has been able to start two different teams. The potential of France is huge; the same can be said of Spain,” he said.

“But the surprise could come from Portugal. They have talented players. I would like Cristiano to get a reward like Messi got his reward. Let Cristiano get his reward.

“If France cannot make it, I will say that the surprise could come from Portugal.”

Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain lock horns again in the Champions League’s last four tonight.

The first leg delivered one of the greatest Champions League games in modern memory, as two heavyweights went punch-for-punch at the Parc des Princes. Another epic could be on the cards tonight, as the star-studded squads battle it out for a place in the final.

Ahead of their semi-final showdown, we’ve picked our Bayern Munich and PSG Combined XI.

Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer – Bayern Munich

The German great did not enjoy his best night in the first leg, but he has proven this season that he can still be formidable. An exceptional performance at the Bernabeu helped Bayern beat Real Madrid in the last eight.

Right-back: Achraf Hakimi – Paris Saint-Germain

Even amid a plethora of stars at Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern board member Uli Hoeneß picked Achraf Hakimi as the PSG player he’d most like at the German side.

“Achraf Hakimi. We would take him immediately, because he would fit in well with us”, he told Dazn.

It’s with good reason. The Moroccan is widely considered the best right-back in the game.

Centre-back: Marquinhos – Paris Saint-Germain

Has been through every peak and trough of Paris Saint-Germain’s modern project and continues to lead by example. No player has made more than his 519 appearances for the club, with Marquinhos a 10-time Ligue 1 winner.

Centre-back: Willian Pacho – Paris Saint-Germain

Part of an exciting generation of Ecuadorian talent alongside Piero Hincapie and Moises Caicedo, Pacho has matured into one of Europe’s most dependable defenders in Paris. He ranks in the top 10% of centre-backs for forward passes completed and percentage of defensive duels won.

Left-back: Nuno Mendes – Paris Saint-Germain

The flying full-back is an unmissable presence for PSG with his marauding runs down the left. Mendes last week became the youngest Portuguese player to reach 50 Champions League appearances, beating Cristiano Ronaldo’s record.

Midfield: Joshua Kimmich – Bayern Munich

After last week’s chaotic clash, the midfield may be where this tie was won as both teams look to gain some control. Bayern’s best football flows through Kimmich, who sits in the elite bracket (top 5%) for progressive passes completed and chances created.

Midfield: Vitinha – Paris Saint-Germain

In the opposite corner will be Vitinha, PSG’s very own midfield metronome. His ascent to world-class status was acknowledged with a third-place finish in last year’s Ballon d’Or.

Right-wing: Michael Olise – Bayern Munich

Michael Olise has been unstoppable for much of the current campaign, breaking Bundesliga records in the process. His 33 direct goal involvements in this Bundesliga season (14G 19A) have equalled the record for a winger since the data was first collected in 2004/05.

Left-wing: Luis Diaz – Bayern Munich

Perhaps the most difficult decision on the team sheet. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has lit up the Champions League this season, including two first-leg goals, but Luis Diaz earns the nod.

The Colombian’s endless endeavour and threat have fit Bayern Munich like a glove, with Diaz forming part of the most dangerous frontline in world football.

Forward: Ousmane Dembele – Paris Saint-Germain

The Ballon d’Or holder can not be excluded, even if injuries have impacted his season. Dembele, when fit, has been as decisive as ever. He’s averaged a goal or assist every 72 minutes in Ligue 1 and the Champions League this season.

Forward: Harry Kane – Bayern Munich

The man who may replace Dembele as holder of the Golden Ball? Kane’s case for the Ballon d’Or is a strong one. The England captain has scored 54 goals in 47 games this season, the best return of his career. Winning this competition would make him the red-hot favourite.

Read – Bayern Munich vs PSG – Past meetings and head-to-head record

See more – Bayern Munich vs PSG – Match preview and team news

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Bayern Munich face Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final tie tonight.

Last week’s first fixture in Paris was an instant classic, as PSG edged a nine-goal thriller at the Parc des Princes. The 5-4 win for the French side made it the highest-scoring single semi-final game in Champions League history.

The stage is set perfectly for tonight’s return, as the two teams battle it out for a place in Budapest later this month. Arsenal await the winners, after the Premier League side eliminated Atletico Madrid on Tuesday night.

Bayern and Paris Saint-Germain have faced off in the Champions League on 17 previous occasions, with the balance of the rivalry evenly split. Despite that, there has incredibly never been a draw between the sides in European competition.

Bayern Munich vs PSG – Past meetings

• Paris Saint-Germain 5-4 Bayern Munich – 2025/26 semi-final, 1st leg
• Bayern Munich 1-0 Paris Saint-Germain – 2024/25 league phase
• Bayern Munich 2-0 Paris Saint-Germain – 2022/23 Round of 16, 2nd leg
• Paris Saint-Germain 0-1 Bayern Munich – 2022/23 Round of 16, 1st leg
• Paris Saint-Germain 0-1 Bayern Munich – 2020/21 quarter-final, 2nd leg
• Bayern Munich 2-3 Paris Saint-Germain – 2020/21 quarter-final, 1st leg
• Paris Saint-Germain 0-1 Bayern Munich – 2019/20 final
• Bayern Munich 3-1 Paris Saint-Germain – 2017/18 group stage
• Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 Bayern Munich – 2017/28 group stage
• Bayern Munich 2-0 Paris Saint-Germain – 2000/01 group stage
• Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 Bayern Munich – 2000/01 group stage
• Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 Bayern Munich – 1997/98 group stage
• Bayern Munich 5-1 Paris Saint-Germain – 1997/98 group stage
• Bayern Munich 0-1 Paris Saint-Germain – 1994/95 group stage
• Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 Bayern Munich – 1994/95 group stage

Bayern Munich vs PSG – Overall head-to-head record

• Bayern Munich wins – 9
• Draws – 0
• PSG wins – 8

Read – Bayern Munich vs PSG – Match preview and team news

See more – The teams with the most Premier League defeats in 2026 so far

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Over the last few seasons, whenever he's on the pitch, it feels like the play naturally flows through the left flank. Federico Dimarco is something of a magnet: he attracts the ball and draws attention. His teammates already know he'll be there, ready to receive and create chances. Among the many names behind Inter's 21st Scudetto, his stands out as one of the brightest. Inter has always been a part of his identity, and winning in these colours means everything to him, especially after last season's disappointment, which only fuelled him to come back stronger. And that's exactly what he did, focused on one thing alone: winning. He has grown into a true leader on the pitch, one of the pillars of Inter's style of play. He has blended intensity and determination with his lethal left foot, contributing to both phases of the game to influence the play. He's given his all for the badge and for our colours.

When Dimarco scores, as part of his celebration, he points to his mind. It's a gesture that reflects a feeling that has been with him all year: awareness, built through consistent hard work, and demonstrated on the pitch through incredible performances and new milestones. A more mature Federico has been evident on the pitch, a crucial pillar of Inter's system and a Nerazzurri through and through, driving the team forward both in terms of his mindset and technique. His impressive numbers are the result of that effort and reflect the impact of a truly unique and decisive player. He has been unstoppable down the left flank, an ever-present threat to opponents and a constant force of creativity in Inter's attack. If Inter have made the most of set pieces and aerial goals, and if the fans are on their feet every time there's a corner or a cross from deep, it's because they know it's Federico Dimarco's left foot sending in the ball. It's this left foot that has assisted 18 goals; no one in Serie A history has done better. A left foot that has also produced six goals of his own in the league, taking him up to 24 goal contributions in total: once again the best tally in the current season, and the only defender to beat 20 goal involvements since the statistic has been recorded in 2004/05. He's better than a forward, better than midfielders, better than all the rest because that left foot is simply sensational.

Dimarco has had plenty of iconic moments, beautiful goals and assists, but if there's one game that encapsulates his quality this season, it's the match against Pisa at San Siro, in which Inter were two goals down in the first 23 minutes. Dimarco started on the bench, keen to come on and turn the game around. The team was struggling, and Chivu brought him on in the 34th minute to change the momentum. Federico was simply electric, and as soon as he came on, Inter found their momentum, San Siro came alive, and the Nerazzurri went into the break leading 3-2 after scoring three times in six minutes. Following Zielinski's penalty, it was the same type of goal: a cross from Dimarco, followed by a header from Lautaro and Pio to get the Nerazzurri back on track and make the Meazza erupt. This best captures Dimarco's awareness: when he lifts his head and picks out a spot, the ball will end up exactly where he wants it to go.

Dimarco has won his second Scudetto with Inter, a club he grew up loving, the Nerazzurri colours woven into his identity through both joy and hardship. This season, he has topped the assists charts, standing out among Inter's stars and playing a crucial role in winning the Club's 21st league title. Federico has not only made his dream of seeing Inter as Champions of Italy come true, but has also fulfilled ours.

Parma defender Mariano Troilo mocked Inter star Nicolò Barella on Sunday over Italy’s failed World Cup qualification, but the Nerazzurri midfielder hit back: ‘They don’t even know who he is in Argentina.’

There was tension between Parma defender Troilo and Inter midfielder Barella on Sunday during the Nerazzurri’s 2-0 victory at San Siro, which secured them their 21st Scudetto.

As reported by DAZN (via FCInter1908), Troilo stepped on Barella’s foot during a corner kick near the end of the game, prompting Inter captain Lautaro Martinez to defend his teammate by pushing Troilo, an Argentine compatriot, away.

Barella looked in a lot of pain while on the ground, but Troilo told him, “Get up, I didn’t even touch you.”

MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Mariano Troilo of Parma Calcio celebrates after scoring their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The Italian midfielder and Troilo continued provoking each other, prompting Inter coach Cristian Chivu to replace his star to avoid consequences.

MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 05: Nicolo Barella of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s fifth goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 05, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

When Barella arrived on the bench, he told his teammate Marcus Thuram what exactly had happened with the Parma defender.

“Do you know what he told me?” Barella asked.

“Shut up, Bobo, you’re out of the World Cup!”

The Inter midfielder sarcastically added before sitting on the bench: “They don’t even know who he is in Argentina!”

Get French Football News sat down with former France, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton striker Louis Saha this week for a wide-ranging interview.

Another of your – and Michael Carrick’s – former clubs where things are not going quite as well as at United, is Tottenham. What is going wrong there? Are you fearful that they may go down?

Ah, we have the right to be afraid for them, that’s for sure; they are in a very tough spot. But at the same time, I have confidence in a group of talented players who I think, when they’re pushed into a corner, can be at their most dangerous. In any case, I hope that’s the case for them, that they will show their character, like they did in their last match [a 1-0 victory at Wolverhampton Wanderers].

In terms of what’s gone wrong, I think it’s a lack of consistency going back years. Maybe – and that’s what Antonio Conte has said – you sometimes get the impression that they’re too hesitant and looking for a teammate to take the initiative, that maybe there is a mental disconnect at key moments, whether during the match or across the season. Sometimes it comes from the board and the type of signings made, strategically – it’s great to go out and sign super-talented youngsters but maybe you need to bring in players who have already established themselves as world-class – it’s a similar issue that Arsenal were long criticised for –  so you don’t find yourselves suffering from this lack of experience at key moments.

We see it with Chelsea today. Chelsea have made, I don’t know, about 20 signings of talented young players, but there are key moments in a match or in a season where mistakes are made at great cost to the team. So if you’re doing that regularly, to the detriment of the results and players, then it might work commercially, but then you find yourself in a situation like Tottenham’s.  

You mentioned Conte there – it’s strange that, even as the players change, the same problem continues within the club?

Definitely, because I remember maybe hearing Jose Mourinho complain about the same thing, hearing Ange Postecoglou make the same observation. There are things that clearly are not working. I can’t tell you exactly what, I’m not party to the board’s discussions! I’m just a fan who watches football, maybe through the eyes of a player who was on the inside, and it might not be for me to try to put my finger exactly on what the issue is – that would be too easy. I am sure that other players, especially legends like Ledley King or others, have given their suggestions, but they still haven’t yet found the solution. So I don’t know, it’s very complicated. They have the talent, they have the budget, they have the infrastructure, they have the coaches. I struggle to understand it.

Louis Saha was talking exclusively to Get French Football News courtesy of Betinia

This exclusive interview is a repost from Get French Football News and can be found HERE

GFN | Jeremy Smith

Get French Football News sat down with former France, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton striker Louis Saha this week for a wide-ranging interview.

Obviously, you’re very associated with Manchester United; you had a very good career there, won a lot of medals. They’ve completely transformed their season since Michael Carrick arrived. For you, what does he bring to the team and, if you were Jim Ratcliffe, would you keep him for next season?

I think that he has brought a certain simplicity, a cohesion in the group that suits the players. He didn’t arrive saying, “This is my style of play.” No, he came in with the attitude that, in order for the players to feel comfortable and play to their maximum potential, I have to make them understand a system of play that is simple, that plays to their strengths and that allows them to be that second or split-second ahead of their opponent. Period.

Because logically these players have more quality than most Premier League players, they were recruited because they are good, because they have great stats. So to get the players to recognise this and give them the roles that suit them, I think that has been his major strength.

His second major strength is really knowing the place and being able to say this is the way that this institution is run because it has always got results in this way. I think it brought a lot of confidence both to those who didn’t yet understand this and to those who did.

So yes I definitely ask Sir Jim Ratcliffe to think like me and to not only extend Carrick’s contract but to strengthen his position because I think that with the support of a few signings, with the support of a staff who will be able to work on a form of progression with this group, that would be the coherent thing to do, working with the very good spine of the current team, with a clear plan for the future, with two or three signings of key players in midfield who will have more running in them, more creativity, maybe more defensive potential, to be able to change system from time to time. I think they have that but some defenders are still a little young, some midfielders are a little old, some strikers a little young too. Those little things need improving and then I think things can progress very quickly.

Louis Saha was talking exclusively to Get French Football News, courtesy of BetVictor Online Casino

This exclusive interview is a repost from Get French Football News and can be found HERE

GFN | Jeremy Smith

Another impressive season, another trophy lifted to the air with the captain's armband: Lautaro Martínez continues to write unforgettable pages in the Inter history books, a Story that has earned the right to be amongst the most impressive of those who have worn the Inter shirt.

El Toro has been the beacon of this Nerazzurri side, a role model and leader of a dressing room that could always look to its Captain in moments of difficulty. A kind word for everyone, a piece of advice for a younger teammate, but also the ability to keep the whole group's intensity at its peak. Direct, even cutting when the situation called for it, but always and only with a single objective in mind, the one he has consistently underlined in every interview and public statement:

Ever upward, always higher, with ambition and self-belief. The very same qualities that drive Lautaro every day and that the Captain brings to the pitch in every touch of the ball. Since his arrival in 2018, El Toro has always stood out for his hunger, determination and garra: every match played giving absolutely everything he has, every duel approached as though it were his last.

It was no different in the 2025/26 season: a year of fresh starts, a year of change that was also meant to represent a rebirth. A resolve that was evident from the very first match, with Lautaro scoring a goal by pressing Torino's defensive build-up. It was a symbolic strike, one that demonstrated his relentless will to fight, celebrated with raw, furious emotion standing on the advertising hoardings: an image that has by now become inseparable from Lautaro's Inter career, whether it be a Champions League semi-final or the opening day of the league season. A roar that is a rallying cry for an entire fanbase: because when Lautaro scores at San Siro, the vibration that shakes the Meazza is unlike any other.

Lautaro steers the Inter ship through every storm, repelling every obstacle: overcoming every difficulty. A journey made up of goals, but above all, of extraordinary performances: an unstoppable path that flies straight towards the 21st Scudetto, while passing through the history and the eras of the Nerazzurri. The first part of El Toro's season allowed us to leaf through the album of Interista memories in a wonderful ascent. On 4 October, Lautaro scored against Cremonese at San Siro and reached 158 goals with Inter: the same tally as Luigi Cevenini, fifth in the all-time top scorers' rankings in Inter's history. Zizì is just the first of the Nerazzurri monuments alongside whom the Captain finds himself, with respect and humility, during the first half of the season: on 9 November, a wonderful finish against Lazio from out wide brings El Toro to 161, level with Sandro Mazzola. Fourth place, a dream in his heart and an objective that begins to feel within reach: the third step of the podium.

In un campionato dove gli attaccanti hanno faticato a segnare Lautaro Martinez è la principale eccezione: dopo un inizio positivo tra novembre e febbraio il Toro diventa decisivo nel trascinare l'Inter in vetta alla classifica. Pisa, Como, Genoa, Atalanta, Bologna: tra la fine del 2025 e l'inizio del 2026 l'Inter cambia marcia anche grazie alle reti del suo Capitano, a segno in cinque partite consecutive con sei gol totali. La squadra di Chivu conquista la vetta per non lasciarla più.

Gol spettacolari, importanti, segnati in ogni modo: di destro, di sinistro, di testa, lottando in area oppure con il classico gol alla Lautaro, tagliando con decisione sul primo palo per staccarsi dalla marcatura del difensore, vero e proprio marchio di fabbrica del centravanti argentino.

Six goals in five consecutive matches, four in four successive games between January and February during the period in which Inter began to open up the decisive gap in the title race. A crucial goal away at Udinese, a header of extraordinary power to spark the comeback against Pisa, the goal that broke the deadlock in Cremona. Right through to the away fixture in Reggio Emilia against Sassuolo: the date with history was 8 February, 2026. Inter were winning 2-0 away at the Neroverdi: the minute was the 50th. From a throw-in into the box, the ball reached Lautaro, who controlled and drove it across goal with his left foot, leaving Muric helpless: in that moment, there was the weight of history and the effortless touch of an artist who knows his craft. 171 goals in Nerazzurri colours, level with Roberto Boninsegna: the Captain had become the third-highest scorer in Inter's history.

This incredible journey suffered a setback due to an unfortunate evening in Norway. Away at Bodø/Glimt, Lautaro picked up an injury and was forced to stop. But the Captain fought as hard as ever, if not harder: he worked tirelessly, tried to shorten his recovery time, did everything in his power to get back on the pitch as soon as possible. In March, he watched Inter's difficulties from afar, champing at the bit and roaring like a caged lion, unable to make his contribution. A Lenten absence lasting 46 days that came to an end on Easter Sunday itself, when Inter faced Roma at San Siro. It took Lautaro just 60 seconds to remind everybody of his worth and that of the entire Inter side: the goal shook San Siro and sent every Inter supporter into raptures. Something had changed: El Toro scored a brace, Inter won 5-2 and once again emphatically reaffirmed their superiority in this title race.

Another knock kept him away from the pitch once more, but not from the team: the Captain took his place on the bench for the away fixtures at Como and Torino. He couldn't bring himself to miss the final stages of the journey, leaving his teammates at the crucial moment. The goals and victories came: only the last step remained. A step that Lautaro took personally during Inter vs Parma, when he came on in the 67th minute. Barella handed him the captain's armband as a mark of respect, and Lautaro fought with the same hunger and desire to score. A goal that the entire stadium dreamt of, to see him up there again: a goal that never came despite some extraordinary moments, including the assist for Mkhitaryan's 2-0 that set off the Inter celebrations in the stands and on the pitch. The decisive pass told us everything about who Lautaro Martínez is: a man who puts the good of the team first, a Captain who plays for Inter and for his supporters, the Nerazzurri faithful who have always stood by him.

Heart and soul of Inter, the symbol of a team that found a way to rise again and now celebrates the 21st Scudetto of its glorious history: a history that now welcomes Lautaro among its most beloved sons, a three-time Italian Champion, twice as Captain.

Get French Football News sat down with former France, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton striker Louis Saha this week for a wide-ranging football chat.

You mentioned Ledley King, you had the chance to play with incredible players like Zinedine Zidane, Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, for example. Who is the best player you have played with? And then – I don’t know if King will come up here, but who is the most underrated player you played with?

[Smiles] You mustn’t think that it’s just because he’s my friend that I think of Sylvain [Distin]. I’ve always teased him because I’ve never understood why he was never selected for the full France team. I think he’s a player who didn’t receive the same attention or recognition as other players in his position. Maybe others had the gift of the gab or knew how to promote themselves more. He had stiff competition, like William Gallas, Michaël Silvestre, Jean-Alain Boumsong and others – very good players. But I always felt that Sylvain was at the same level, he played in a huge number of Premier League games – certainly of all French players he must be among those with the most appearances. So yes, he’s definitely right up there and it’s incomprehensible to me that he never received a call-up. But hey, that’s football; sometimes we miss out on things and don’t understand why. But he’s certainly one of the most underrated players of his generation, at least as far as defenders go.

And if we’re talking about Ledley King too, I had the chance to play with him for four or five months and what impressed me the most was that he was very physically diminished but you would never have known that on the pitch because of his mentality, his ability to adapt and always perform. So Ledley King is a legend in that sense.

As for best player, without disrespecting “ZZ” – ZZ had amazing charisma, had that magic – I’m talking about pure talent.

But, after maybe Pelé for those of another generation, the most complete, the most perfect player, if you had to build the perfect footballer, it’s Cristiano Ronaldo. If you’re creating Lionel Messi, you’re going to create him within a certain tactical system. But the ideal player, with the physique, the guy who is 1m88 tall, who goes at 3,000 kilometres an hour, who has endurance, technique, strength, who has a high footballing IQ – maybe not as high as Paul Scholes or even Messi but still very high – who is strong mentally, who is a leader but who also continues to challenge himself,  who will give you confidence because he always has so much self-confidence. Well, I can’t think of any other player like that. It’s impressive. For me, he’s a cyborg!

Speaking of very talented players, France at the moment is blessed with several great strikers. Does Louis Saha, at the top of his form, have a place in the current France squad?

Oh, that’s a great question! I think I have a game that is a little different from the others who are in the team today. We don’t necessarily have the traditional number 9 à la Olivier Giroud. Between Giroud, Djibril Cisse and me, let’s say, we had that number 9 role. I’m not in the mode of a Hugo Ekitike, who is an incredible talent. I could see maybe Jean-Philippe Mateta in the squad. But when you see the likes of Dembouz – Ousmane Dembélé – and Kylian Mbappé as your strikers, with Marcus Thuram in the squad too – yes, I’d hope to be able to bring something too!

Louis Saha was talking exclusively to Get French Football News courtesy of ToonieBet

This exclusive interview is a repost from Get French Football News and can be found HERE

GFN | Jeremy Smith

FC Internazionale Milano and the entire Nerazzurri family join in mourning the passing of Evaristo Beccalossi, sending their condolences to his loved ones as they remember him.

It feels impossible to accept. In memory and in everyday life, Evaristo was always on our minds – indescribable, like his dribbles, unique, like his control of the ball.

Talent cannot be taught – it is a gift which, at most, can be nurtured. Such as the stubborn determination of a naturally right-footed player who, from a young age, trained his left foot in the garage at home until he became ambidextrous, equally magical with both feet. Beccalossi’s talent was pure, and though at times contrasted by an inconsistency that would appear match to match, one that teammates and fans always adored.

Beccalossi, a fantasista in the truest sense, whom Gianni Brera famously nicknamed “Driblossi”. His art of dribbling, of beating opponents, was audacious, almost always successful, executed with lightness. He brought beauty to football, its most romantic expression, capable of making fans fall in love. With his curls flowing over his shoulders and his unmistakable stride across the pitch, he "caressed" the ball. No one captured his essence better than Peppino Prisco: “He didn’t play with the ball, the ball played with him; he didn’t kick it, but caressed it, filling it with affection.”

Those "caresses" were countless, on and off the pitch, throughout his years in Nerazzurri colours (1978-1984) and beyond, in his life after football, always close to Inter, always within the game, working with the Federation and inspiring younger generations. A fantasista there, too.

Right foot, left foot, goals and vision. Beccalossi fed Oriali, Marini, Baresi and more, scoring and assisting. He once said: “When I arrived at San Siro, my teammates didn’t know if they would be playing with ten or twelve – it depended entirely on me.”

Wearing the number 10, he joined Inter from his hometown club Brescia in 1978 and was immediately embraced by a Meazza crowd. The tip-off to Sandro Mazzola (his predecessor as No.10 and then a club director) came after a match in which he dribbled past five players before missing in front of goal. The perfect snapshot of his immense talent and his captivating unpredictability.

“With Beccalossi and Pasinato, we will win the league.” Many were not yet born in 1980, but that chant accompanied Inter, coached by Eugenio Bersellini, to their 12th Scudetto. Alongside Bordon, Baresi, Altobelli, Caso, Bini, Marini, Oriali, Canuti, Pasinato, Muraro, Mozzini, Pancheri, Ambu, Cipollini and Occhipinti, Beccalossi was the team’s No.10. Seven league goals, including two in the derby on 8 October 1979: a sublime right-footed volley on a pitch reduced to mud, and another to seal a derby stamped firmly with Nerazzurri colours.

Putting his 37 goals in 215 appearances aside, as well as his Scudetto and Coppa Italia, Beccalossi was the man of dreams. The player capable of producing magic at any moment. And if it didn’t arrive, it hardly mattered: having him on the pitch was enough, knowing that sooner or later a dribble or an impossible ball would come. Even a difficult night, like missing two penalties in five minutes, became part of his legend, later transformed into a theatrical monologue by actor Paolo Rossi.

“The most beautiful thing, in my opinion, was that the Inter fans identified with us. I left a good memory, even today.” Not just a good memory, but a deep sense of pride in having had “Becca” as part of the Club’s history. Now, that pride blends with a profound sadness, as we remember the life of Evaristo Beccalossi.

Arne Slot’s future has become a growing talking point after Liverpool’s defeat to Manchester United, but both Alan Shearer and Micah Richards believe the Dutchman deserves more time at Anfield.

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The reaction comes after another frustrating afternoon for us at Old Trafford, where Liverpool recovered from 2-0 down before eventually throwing away the game again in a damaging 3-2 defeat.

Richards backs Slot despite Liverpool concerns

Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast after Gary Lineker asked whether Slot would still be Liverpool manager next season, Shearer admitted he would stick with the 47-year-old.

The former England captain said: “I think so. I think in terms of what he did last season and winning the league, manager of the season… with the issues and the problems they’ve had at Liverpool this year, then yeah.”

Richards agreed, although the pundit did raise major concerns about Liverpool’s performances and recruitment.

The ex-Manchester City defender explained: “The signings have not worked, have they? Isak’s been injured. Wirtz has not been at the level that we all expect.”

Richards also questioned where Jeremie Frimpong fits tactically, adding that Liverpool are now “too slow”, “too passive” and “too easy to play against”.

Liverpool identity concerns continue to grow

That criticism echoed what several pundits have said in after another chaotic defensive display from us.

Roy Keane claimed Liverpool looked “frightened to death” during the opening stages at Old Trafford, while Daniel Sturridge questioned whether the team currently has any clear identity under Slot.

Richards made a similar point when comparing this side to the intensity associated with Jurgen Klopp’s teams.

The pundit said: “What you normally associate Liverpool with is being aggressive, hard to beat, work rate… and they’re none of those things.”

Even so, Richards still insisted the Dutch coach deserves the opportunity to rebuild the squad and turn things around.

Meanwhile, Gary Lineker admitted: “I wouldn’t be surprised if we saw Xabi Alonso there next season.”

Liverpool were poor in the first half against United, although there’s also a fair argument that Slot has suffered dreadful luck this season with injuries and controversial decisions, including Sesko’s handball goal being allowed to stand.

Get French Football News sat down with former France, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton striker Louis Saha this week for a wide-ranging football chat on Ligue 1.

Another of your former teams, who are doing even worse than Tottenham this season, is FC Metz. When you played for them, they were challenging for the title, with players like Robert Pires. How do you explain the fact that they have become a yo-yo club?

Oh yes, it’s been hard going this season! I think a lot comes down to framework. When you have results that look like repeated bad cycles and lots of yo-yoing, then for me it means that there is a problem with the structure. You can change the players, change the managers, but if you end up repeating a pattern, then there is a structural problem.

FC Metz are among the best clubs in terms of developing players – some unbelievable players have come from there. So I don’t think it’s a problem related to players coming through the academy. Maybe it’s a need to keep those players for a little longer. That would be good in terms of the stability of a club – try not to be a springboard club too soon – that might be something that could be managed.  Although it’s a risk and sometimes you have to admit defeat because there are bigger clubs that splash the cash straightaway, as soon as you’ve developed a player. But for the good of the team, you need to try to keep those players at least one or two years longer than they have done the last few years. I think it’s been very detrimental; I find it quite striking.

Then, of course, in the course of this season, there have been key matches that Metz should have won but which they lost, home matches against direct relegation rivals where they didn’t show the necessary solidity. In a league like Ligue 1, you get punished for that – you only need four or five really poor performances like that and it’s the descent into hell. Well, that has happened too often and it’s a cycle that has repeated itself. That’s the club’s problem.

I think that the issue of clubs needing to sell players as soon as they come through youth development is a Ligue 1 problem, because so many clubs have financial issues…  

That’s very true. That’s why we end up with lots of feeder clubs. When you have an academy and you find yourself forced by necessity to play that selling game, then there is less stability. Whereas a club like AS Monaco, which is not a club known for its youth development with the same structures as a club like Metz, don’t have the same issues to contend with.

I’m not a specialist but if I try to put my finger on it, some do it very well, others not so well. It looks like FC Nantes may fall through the trapdoor, too. But there are other clubs that manage to do it very well, like Stade Rennais. Three or four years ago, I saw Rennes being like Bordeaux in terms of big financial difficulty. Ligue 1 clubs are under a lot of financial pressure under the oversight of the DNCG [France’s football financial regulatory body]. It’s extremely tough because it’s not regulated to the same extent in Europe – it’s not at all as regulated in other leagues. So French clubs inevitably get cleaned out and clubs like Metz, who have developed great links in Senegal or in other countries and manage to bring through super-talents, then have to sell them. It’s a really tough game to play and that’s where you need to try to ensure your investment lasts not just three years but maybe four to five years. That’s what I think, with my modest level of knowledge anyway. I think it’s a real shame.

Louis Saha was talking exclusively to Get French Football News courtesy of Wiz Slots

This exclusive interview is a repost from Get French Football News and can be found HERE

GFN | Jeremy Smith

“I don’t even know what to say about Coco anymore. He’s an exemplary, determined captain. He shows it match after match. We’re at a loss for words regarding his performances,” Clinton Mata gushed after Olympique Lyonnais’s 4-2 victory over Stade Rennais. Corentin Tolisso, or Coco as he is affectionately known to his teammates, was at his inspired best on Sunday night as Lyon fought from behind to put one hand on the Ligue 1 podium. 

The Lyon captain was involved in three of the four goals, registering two assists and converting his 42nd-minute penalty as Lyon leapt past Lille OSC to move back into third and with it a shot at automatic qualification into the league phase of the UEFA Champions League, with only two games remaining. However, the night could have been a very different outcome when, with almost the first kick of the game, Tolisso went down clutching his head after a challenge from Rennes defender Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal. 

Both sets of players quickly surrounded him as they shielded him from view while he received treatment. Despite the initial concern and the fact that he looked visibly dazed after the duel, he was given the all-clear to continue and leave his indelible mark on a tight Champions League race. 

Didier Deschamps and the debate in Lyon

When, like last night, you see Tolisso at full pomp, controlling the tempo, orchestrating the press, and unpicking the defence, it becomes very hard to ignore the argument that has been raging in Lyon throughout this season: Coco should be in Didier Deschamps’s France plans for the upcoming summer World Cup. It’s baffled the Lyonnais that the France head coach has been as yet unmoved by the midfielder’s performances or the 14 goals he’s scored across all competitions. 

It’s been five years since he was last selected to represent France. His last of 28 caps came in the group stages of the 2020 UEFA Euros (which were, of course, rescheduled to be played in 2021 due to the disruption caused by the global pandemic). Since then, the phone has been quiet, even as he’s watched Florian Thauvin’s performances this season with RC Lens end a six-year exile from Les Bleus. 

In April, Tolisso admitted he was disappointed to miss out on the squad announcement for the March international break, which was the final international break before the World Cup. He said, “I was a bit disappointed when the last squad was announced. I believed [I would be there]. I have promised myself that I won’t talk about it in the media anymore. What will happen will happen. You can dream. I am working.”

Time running out for Corentin Tolisso

At 31 years old, it feels as if this could be his last shot at representing his nation at the World Cup, and while the door has not fully closed on the 2018 winner, the signs are not promising. According to a report from Téléfoot, Deschamps wants to take five midfielders to the World Cup, and there are already at least six players ahead of him, with Aurélien Tchouaméni, Warren Zaire-Emery, Adrien Rabiot, Manu Koné, N’Golo Kanté, and Eduardo Camavinga (with the latter the most likely to miss out). 

At the very least, Tolisso will not let the decision to leave him off the plane to North America be an easy one for Deschamps. It looks as if the Lyon captain will spend the final two weeks of the domestic season making the best possible case for his inclusion. And with this fire behind him, it’s hard not to think that Lyon are in a very good position to hold onto their spot on the podium and return to Europe’s premier competition. 

This week’s Ligue 1 sub-plots

• On Saturday, Paris Saint-Germain had both eyes on the second leg of their Champions League semi-final with Bayern Munich as they hosted FC Lorient. Luis Enrique rested most of his starters… the result was as expected, as Les Merlus held them to a 2-2 draw. Read how it happened HERE. 

• PSG dropping points was great news for Lens, who played that same evening. However, they couldn’t take advantage of PSG’s slip in the title race as they were forced to share points with relegation-threatened OGC Nice. Read all about it HERE.

• Lorient are on course for a top-half finish, but will likely go into the summer in search of a new head coach. Olivier Pantaloni is expected to step aside following the midseason takeover by Bournemouth owner, Black Knight FC. His replacement might well have been found. Read more HERE.

This feature is a repost from Get French Football News and can be found HERE

GFN | Nick Hartland

Roma doesn’t want to lose in their last three games: their goal is to collect nine points, hoping Juventus can slip up.

The Giallorossi coach and his team are a monolithic unit. Gasperini has defended the group since the start of the season: “It bothers me that some think this is a 5th-6th place team and can’t go any higher. If they had had more reinforcements, perhaps they would have achieved greater heights.”

It’s not a trivial comment, after the latest 4-0 victory against Fiorentina, like the one about the future: “Either I move forward with my ideas or I’d better look for another position.” A clear message.

Gian Piero Gasperini wants a say in coaching decisions.

He reiterated this repeatedly, even after the 4-0 win over Fiorentina thanks to goals from Mancini, Wesley, Hermoso, and Pisilli.

The coach also has clear ideas on the issue of contract renewals for players whose contracts are expiring.

As Corriere della Sera reports, the manager is asking the Friedkins for contract extensions for all those who could leave the capital on June 30th. No one is excluded.

The list is long: El Shaarawy, Celik, Dybala, and Pellegrini. It remains to be seen what the owners’ response will be, especially since a month ago the exact opposite was being reported.

Werder Bremen have reached an agreement to sign Kenny Quetant, according to Sky Germany.

Yet to sign a professional contract with Le Havre, the 19-year-old is available on a free transfer and is set to become Bremen’s first signing of the summer.

Per Florian Plettenberg, Quetant’s medical is planned for Thursday, where he will then sign a four-year contract until 2030 with an option to extend by a further year.

Interestingly, Bremen wasn’t the first option for Quetant. Le Parisien reported that Freiburg had been favourites to sign the young forward, who has scored one goal in nine Ligue 1 appearances for Le Havre this season, while Lille had also shown an interest in the Frenchman.

What’s more, Quetant hasn’t been a member of Le Havre’s first team squad since the end of March, due to the player’s lack of commitment to the club.

GGFN | Daniel Pinder

Gasperini wants to build the Roma of the future.

The Giallorossi coach believes the core team is a good foundation to which to add some top-notch players. No revolution, just a targeted reinforcement.

In the meantime, the Giallorossi club will have to deal with the transfers scheduled by June 30th and then also think about the incoming market.

Roma is looking for Malen’s reinforcements for next season.

As Il Messaggero reports, Gasperini is worried about not finding players of a certain caliber, because while he’d like to start over with his core squad, he’s equally determined to push for reinforcements. Malen is a sure thing, and the agency handling his interests could bring further signings.

In addition to West Ham’s Summerville, Tzolis, a left winger from Brugge, has been offered to the club via intermediaries.

The 2002-born player is valued at around €30 million.

Roma already conducted an enquiry last summer, so a resurgence of interest isn’t out of the question.

The Greek winger has scored 19 goals this season and added 22 assists.

Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana (25) has been offered to Barcelona by the Frenchman’s representatives, as per a report from Sacha Tavolieri. 

Since joining Chelsea from Leicester City, the France international has struggled with injury issues, limiting him to 68 club appearances since 2022. However, 34 of those have come this season, suggesting that the injury issues may be behind him.

His future, however, may not lie at Chelsea, Tavolieri understands. Fofana has been offered to Barcelona by the player’s representatives. The La Liga giants are in the market for a left-sided centre-back, but could also target a defender capable of playing on the right of the defence. There have been talks between the Catalan club and the player’s entourage in recent weeks.

Chelsea are not opposed to selling Fofana this summer. However, the London club will not do so for a fee lower than €30m (without bonuses). Barcelona would prefer a loan with a buy option. Chelsea would prefer a permanent deal if Fofana is to leave the club at the end of the season.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle

Former Inter and Brescia midfielder Evaristo Beccalossi has died aged 69: ‘Always one of us,’ wrote the Nerazzurri.

Italian football mourns former midfielder Beccalossi, who died on Tuesday night aged 69.

Ex-Inter star Beccalossi dies at 69

The former Inter star suffered a cerebral haemorrhage in January 2025. After being in a coma for 47 days, he underwent a long rehabilitation period in his hometown, Brescia, where he tragically passed away last night.

Beccalossi would have 70 on May 12.

A former midfielder for the Rondinelle, Inter, Sampdoria, Monza, Barletta and Pordenone, Beccalossi scored 30 goals in 249 appearances in Italy’s top flight.

He played for Inter from 1978 to 1984, scoring 37 goals in 216 appearances across all competitions, and won the Serie A title in 1979-80.

During his time at the Stadio Meazza, Beccalossi also reached the 1980-81 European Cup semifinals and won the 1981-82 Coppa Italia. He did win the Coppa Italia with Sampdoria as well, in the 1984-85 campaign.

Beccalossi did not play for the Italy national team, but made three appearances with the U21 team and scored one goal in four matches with Italy’s Olympic team.

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 23: Evaristo Beccalossi attends The Best FIFA Football Awards 2019 at the Teatro Alla Scala on September 23, 2019 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

Inter paid tribute to their former midfielder with a statement on their official website.

“FC Internazionale Milano and the entire Inter community join in mourning the passing of Evaristo Beccalossi, and, in remembering him, extend the deepest condolences to his family,” the Nerazzurri said.

“It feels impossible. In the folds of memory and in everyday life, Evaristo was always one of us. Unpredictable, like his dribbling, unique, like his way of handling the ball.”

Borussia Dortmund have re-entered the race to sign Hertha Berlin prodigy Kennet Eichhorn.

Sport Bild report that a personal meeting took place between newly appointed sporting director Nils Book and Eichhorn at the beginning of April.

However, Dortmund face competition from Bundesliga counterparts RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen in the bid to sign Eichhorn, who has a reported €12m exit clause – a feasible fee for all three clubs.

Who is Kennet Eichhorn?

Awarded his 2. Bundesliga debut by Stefan Leitl at 16 years and 14 days in August 2025, Eichhorn has played 15 times for Hertha Berlin in Germany’s second division, picking up seven yellow cards in 999 minutes of football.

Valued at €20m on Transfermarkt, the defensive midfielder has also attracted attention from Europe’s elite clubs: Real Madrid, Manchester United, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal, among others.

GGFN | Daniel Pinder

Chelsea face the biggest decision in the club’s history this summer and could end up like Tottenham if they get it wrong according to talkSPORT host Andy Jacobs.

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It’s been another difficult season for the Blues, who find themselves ninth in the league with just three games remaining.

Monday’s 3-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest condemned the Blues to their sixth league defeat in a row, and they’ve only scored once in those games.

Andy Jacobs warns Chelsea they could end up like Spurs

Chelsea still have an FA Cup final against Manchester City to try and salvage something from the season, whilst their only chance of Champions League football is a sixth placed finish if Aston Villa come fifth and win the Europa League.

The Blues face arguably one of the most important summers in recent history with a new head coach needing to be appointed, and serious reinforcements added to the squad.

Liam Rosenior lasted less than four months, and Jacobs has warned Chelsea they could end up like Tottenham if they get this wrong.

“People are having a go at the players, but it’s like the Spurs players under Igor Tudor, it’s not them, it’s the manager,” he told talkSPORT.

“The manager does matter, who it is, and the whole structure. This season’s over and it’s done, now it’s the biggest decision in the club’s history, they’ve got to get it right.

“If they don’t get it right, then everybody can see the writing on the wall and what’s going to happen next season.”

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In other news…

It’s been reported nothing is going on between Chelsea and Xavi Hernandez, despite suggestions the Blues had reached out to the Spaniard.

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Chelsea are still in theprocess of deciding who their new head coach will be after sacking Liam Rosenior last month.

Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva and Xabi Alonso are three names said to feature highly in their thinking at this point in time.

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:

John Aldridge has implored Liverpool not to sell two players who’ve recently been linked with potential exits from Anfield in the summer.

Last week, Fabrizio Romano claimed that Curtis Jones’ contract situation is on ‘standby’ (he has 14 months remaining on his current deal) and he could duly become a ‘really interesting option’ for several prospective suitors.

Meanwhile, Sky Sports reported earlier this week that Juventus have now made Alisson Becker a ‘top target’ for the upcoming transfer window, following on from Paul Joyce writing that ‘there is renewed doubt‘ as to how much longer the goalkeeper will stay with the Reds.

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Aldridge implores Liverpool to keep Alisson and Jones

In his latest column for the Liverpool Echo, Aldridge made the case for his former club to keep hold of both players, particularly amid the context of other high-profile departures, and questioned how those rumours originated in the first place.

He wrote: ‘Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson will be leaving the club at the end of the month and there has been talk about other players who could leave, such as Alisson and Curtis Jones. I don’t know where this talk has come from. I feel like someone is trying to throw a spanner in the works.

‘There’s no way Liverpool can let Alisson and Jones go this summer. We’ve had one big transition last year. Alisson can play at Anfield for another four or five years. Why make the squad situation any more difficult?

(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

‘I can’t see the point in letting someone like him go. I know he’s had some injury problems this year that have affected his kicking a bit but it feels like someone outside the club just trying to cause chaos.

‘As for Jones, he’s a local lad and a Liverpool fan. Where would he go? I’d be very surprised he if left.’

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Alisson and Jones are vital performers for Liverpool

Even though his playing time over the past couple of seasons has been significantly curtailed by injuries, Alisson remains a crucial figure for Liverpool, and to lose him off the back of Salah and Robertson leaving would be an enormous blow for the Reds.

The Brazilian is a standard bearer on the pitch and in the dressing room, and we’ve already seen several big leadership presences depart over the past three years.

(Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, for all the criticism that Jones gets, some of his underlying performance statistics are among the best of any Premier League midfielder this season, and he’s currently the one local presence in the senior squad, a commodity which should never be dismissed or underappreciated.

That alone shouldn’t get a player into the first-team setup, but the 25-year-old has proven over the past several years that he belongs at this level. If he didn’t, there’s no way he’d have surpassed 200 appearances for Liverpool.

We fully agree with Aldridge that it’d be a massive risk to let either of them depart in the summer, and we firmly hope that both will agree to remain with the Reds for at least another season, even if their contract situations are both at that delicate one-year stage.

This summer transfer window is expected to be one of the busiest for Manchester United.

They are in the market for strengthen several positions with midfield and the centre-back position high on their priority list.

Now, another position is receiving attention from the recruitment team at Old Trafford as they feel a new, long term replacement of Luke Shaw is needed at the club.

Although Luke Shaw has recently returned to form and fitness, United simply cannot rely on him alone given the grueling, expanded European schedule awaiting them next year.

That is why Bournemouth defender Adrien Truffert has become their target ahead of the summer transfer window.

Man United interested in promising left-back

According to reports from TEAMtalk, the 24-year-old Bournemouth defender has rapidly emerged as a primary target after establishing himself as one of the standout full-backs in the Premier League this season.

Interestingly, Truffert had been on United’s radar over the past year, but he simply didn’t fit the tactical blueprint under former manager Ruben Amorim.

However, Carrick’s switch to a traditional back four has completely changed the landscape, making the defender an absolutely ideal fit for the new defensive system.

Since arriving on the south coast from Rennes last summer to replace the Liverpool-bound Milos Kerkez, Truffert has been nothing short of phenomenal.

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Truffert has been a revelation this season

He has started every single Premier League match for the Cherries, chipping in with a crucial goal and three assists.

If the Cherries demand an astronomical fee, the Red Devils are keeping a close eye on several high-profile alternatives. The shortlist reportedly includes Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde, Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall, and Arsenal’s highly-rated Myles Lewis-Skelly.

Adding a dynamic, reliable left-back like Truffert would be a massive step toward building a squad actually capable of challenging on multiple fronts.

If the Red Devils can successfully negotiate this deal, the left flank of Old Trafford is going to be incredibly exciting to watch next season.

Man United transfer update: Centre-back signing has become a summer window priority 

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Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has given credit to the improved form of Viktor Gyokeres in recent games after a particularly strong display in last night’s Champions League semi-final.

The Sweden international scored twice in the win over Fulham at the weekend, and though he didn’t find the back of the net against Atletico Madrid, he worked tirelessly all night long and proved a real handful for Diego Simeone’s side.

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Henry admits he’s been critical of Gyokeres at times, but he now feels that the former Sporting Lisbon man is proving him and his other critics wrong by becoming more of a real number 9 that opponents fear.

Watch below for Henry’s analysis…

Thierry Henry gives the Arsenal team their flowers after they make their first #UCL final since he played for the club in 2006 ??? pic.twitter.com/dlZpHPO1tm

— CBS Sports Golazo ?? (@CBSSportsGolazo) May 5, 2026

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Thierry Henry on Viktor Gyokeres

Discussing Gyokeres, Henry said: “You know, I’m old school, show me what you can do and I’ll say it.

“If you’re not playing well I’ll say you’re not playing well. For a very long time, for example, if I take the example of Gyokeres, the jury was out on him.

“It’s not a bad thing – embrace it, try to prove people wrong. Tonight he did, not only tonight but in the last month.

“I will give him his credit. He’s running, he looks solid, he looks a bit more like a number 9 you can be scared of.”

The Frenchman also praised Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and the players for seeming to adapt better to Gyokeres by looking for him early and doing more to get the best out of his strengths.

Viktor Gyokeres’ first Arsenal season in numbers

Gyokeres hasn’t always looked that convincing in a red and white shirt, having been an absolute goal machine at former club Sporting.

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Still, the 27-year-old has managed an impressive 21 goals in 51 games in all competitions, which isn’t bad considering it’s his first season with a new club in a new league.

Gyokeres has also managed five goals in the Champions League to help the Gunners reach only their second ever final.

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Marcus Rashford’s future has been up in the air for a while, but the situation is getting seriously complicated.

After spending this season out on loan at Barcelona, it originally looked like the Manchester United academy graduate was destined to stay in Spain long-term.

However, a major rift is reportedly developing between the two heavyweights over finances.

That has given other clubs a major boost to target a move for Rashford and one of the clubs closely monitoring the England international is Premier League leaders Arsenal, according to Daily Mail.

Marcus Rashford faces uncertainty over his career

To be fair to Rashford, the change of scenery has definitely helped him reset his career.

He has chipped in with 13 goals in 45 appearances for Barcelona across all competitions.

However, manager Hansi Flick has mostly used him as a rotation option, handing him just 15 starts in La Liga.

The real issue, though, is the money. Barcelona have an option to make the move permanent for £26 million, but their well-documented financial troubles are making them seriously hesitate.

The Catalan giants are reportedly trying to aggressively negotiate that fee down.

Man United just want him off the wage bill. With the Red Devils qualifying for the Champions League next season, Rashford’s salary would automatically jump to a staggering £325,000 per week.

United simply cannot afford to carry that massive financial burden for a player who isn’t even in their long-term plans.

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Arsenal have entered the race for Man United attacker

This is exactly where Mikel Arteta and Arsenal step into the picture. As Barcelona and Man United continue to haggle over the £26 million fee, the Gunners are quietly monitoring the situation, ready to pounce if the deal completely collapses.

Adding a player with Rashford’s blistering pace, Premier League pedigree, and big-game experience could be a massive coup for an Arsenal side looking to solidify their status as top-tier contenders.

They aren’t the only ones watching closely. Tottenham have also shown genuine interest in offering the 28-year-old a fresh start in London, provided they manage to survive their current relegation battle.

If Arsenal decide to pull the trigger and meet the asking price, we could very well see Rashford back in the Premier League, playing for one of Man United’s biggest rivals.

Man United transfer update: Centre-back signing has become a summer window priority

The post Arsenal keeping a close eye on Man United star ready to end his Old Trafford nightmare appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool are reportedly weighing up trying to hijack Tottenham’s move to sign Bournemouth centre-back Marcos Senesi.

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The Argentine is set to be out of contract at Bournemouth this summer, and our understanding is that he has been in advanced talks over joining Spurs.

However, nothing has been fully agreed yet due to uncertainty over whether Tottenham can stay in the Premier League, which could lead to other clubs joining the race.

According to talkSPORT, Liverpool could be set to try to get in ahead of their rivals, with there still seemingly being no clarity on Ibrahima Konate staying and signing a new contract at Anfield.

Marcos Senesi transfer looks like a good opportunity for top clubs

Even if Senesi isn’t the biggest name in world football, he’s a quality player with Premier League experience who’s about to be available on a free transfer.

Tottenham could certainly do well to add someone like that to their squad for next season after flirting with relegation this term.

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Liverpool, meanwhile, have also had a disappointing season by their high standards, with Champions League qualification still not entirely guaranteed yet.

It seems clear the Reds would benefit from strengthening at the back after conceding 47 league goals – more than the likes of Everton and Crystal Palace, and 21 more than league leaders Arsenal.

Bournemouth to lose more star players?

Bournemouth saw Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez leave last summer, while Antoine Semenyo then joined Manchester City in January.

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The Cherries now look set to lose Senesi for nothing, while there’ll likely be speculation over other star players such as Eli Junior Kroupi and Alex Scott.

Meanwhile, manager Andoni Iraola is also leaving his position as he’ll also be out of contract this summer.

The post Report: Liverpool weighing up offer to hijack major Tottenham transfer deal appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United have secured Champions League football for next season and their target for next season is achieved.

But as the dust settles on an intensely demanding campaign under interim boss Michael Carrick, the club’s hierarchy is already looking ahead to a massive summer rebuild.

They need a clever summer transfer window and a lot of positions will be on their agenda.

The midfield issues are there for all to see and it is clear that the Red Devils will target new midfielders in the summer.

Man United are looking to sign a new centre-back

Latest report has suggested that even signing a new centre-back has become a priority at Old Trafford ahead of the transfer window.

According to Football Insider, Man United have made signing a new, elite centre-back their absolute number one priority for the upcoming transfer window.

To understand exactly why the United board is so desperate to splash the cash on a central defender, you just have to look at the absolute injury nightmare they’ve endured this season.

While young talents like Leny Yoro have stepped up admirably in crucial, high-pressure moments, like coming off the bench to lock down that massive win against Liverpool and veterans like Harry Maguire have consistently put their bodies on the line, the sheer lack of structural consistency has been a massive headache.

You simply cannot mount a sustained Premier League title challenge or survive deep, grueling Champions League knockout runs when you are forced to field a different centre-back partnership every single weekend due to nagging muscle injuries.

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Focus has now turned towards new signings

Now that Carrick has brilliantly steered the ship back into Europe’s elite competition, Man United once again hold the ultimate bargaining chip.

Elite, highly sought-after defenders want to play under the Champions League lights.

Furthermore, the massive financial windfall that naturally comes with UEFA qualification means the club’s sporting directors won’t be forced to bargain hunt in the market, they can legitimately target a marquee, world-class defensive anchor who can immediately slot into the starting XI and provide some much-needed physicality and leadership.

Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt and other defenders have all struggled with injuries this season and United are looking for someone more reliable in the market.

Casemiro ready to take pay cut for special reason as he decides next club after Man United

The post Man United transfer update: Centre-back signing has become a summer window priority appeared first on CaughtOffside.

The World Cup is the biggest stage in football, and a chance for the top players to prove their worth. There will be a whole host of stars from the Premier League heading to North America this summer, looking to do the business, and we’ve picked out some of those who could make the difference for their respective nations.

Elliot Anderson

For the last couple of seasons, Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson has established himself as one of the top-flight’s leading players in his position. This has allowed the Whitley Bay-born star to secure the role next to Declan Rice in England’s central midfield. The Three Lions start as one of the favourites to win the tournament according to the latest online World Cup betting, and if Anderson can transfer his league form to the competition, they have a great chance of success.

Bruno Fernandes

Bruno Fernandes is in the running to be named the Premier League’s player of the season due to his stellar form for Manchester United. The Portuguese number ten continues to excel, regardless of United’s form, and he also plays a key role for his country. The talk is often about Cristiano Ronaldo, but in Fernandes, Portugal have another genuine world-class talent who can make the difference on the pitch by scoring a goal or finding the right pass.

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Antoine Semenyo

Last season, Antoine Semenyo started to show what he’s truly capable of at the top level of the English game, and he continued that form into the current campaign. Even before he joined Manchester City in January, the Ghana star was doing the business with goals and assists. Since arriving in Manchester, he’s taken his game to another level, and the Black Stars will be relying on him to help them compete in and progress out of Group L, a group that also features England.

Igor Thiago

Rewind a season, and people would have scoffed at the mere suggestion that Brentford striker Igor Thiago could be on the plane to represent Brazil at the World Cup this summer. Serious injury halted Thiago’s start to life in the Premier League, but this season he’s delivered an impressive goals return of 21 in 33, and is only second to Erling Haaland in the goalscoring charts. The 24-year-old is brimming with confidence and will be looking to take that into the tournament.

Emiliano Martinez

Emiliano Martinez has been one of Argentina’s most important and dependable players in recent times, as proven by his displays at the 2022 World Cup. Argentina ran out winners of that tournament, with Martinez showing up in the big moments, and in the final especially. The Aston Villa keeper sets the tone for the rest of the team, and if La Albiceleste are to defend their crown, they will need Martinez to be that big presence he’s shown he can be once again.

Conclusion 

As anticipation builds ahead of the 2026 World Cup, a whole raft of Premier League players will be dreaming of what’s to come. The players mentioned above all have the ability to make a difference for their respective nations when it matters most. And, it’s players like these that can ultimately make the difference between progressing in a tournament or heading home.

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Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has reportedly decided he’d be prepared to take a pay cut to get a summer transfer to Inter Miami.

The Brazil international is heading towards the end of his Man Utd contract and is keen to make a move to Miami his priority due to a desire to play with Lionel Messi.

Apparently, Casemiro would even be willing to accept a pay cut to get this dream move, with he and his family also keen on the move to the US, according to Sky Sports.

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Casemiro has performed well for United this season, with some fans perhaps even wondering if the club should make a quick U-turn on the 34-year-old’s deal as he edges closer to becoming a free agent.

Manchester United will surely miss Casemiro

Despite surely coming towards the end of his career, Casemiro has enjoyed a real renaissance this season, putting some of his past difficult MUFC form behind him.

It’s slightly surreal that it was two years ago we were seeing Jamie Carragher famously declaring that Casemiro should leave football before the football leaves him, with the former Real Madrid man now looking like someone the Red Devils are really going to miss…

It will be interesting to see how United end up replacing such an influential player, with Casemiro widely regarded as one of the top defensive midfielders of his generation.

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Even if we didn’t see Casemiro at his peak during his time at Old Trafford, he was world class for many years at Real Madrid, where he won five Champions League titles, three La Liga titles, and numerous other major honours.

United will surely have a tough job on their hands this summer trying to strengthen in midfield, with a signing needed to replace Casemiro, and also another probably required as an upgrade on the struggling Manuel Ugarte.

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Arsenal successfully navigated the ultimate test of their mental fortitude, grinding out a tense, hard-fought 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid to officially punch their ticket to the Champions League final.

Following last week’s incredibly grueling 1-1 draw in the Spanish capital, the stakes were extremely high.

But as the full-time whistle blew and the red half of North London erupted into pure euphoria, manager Mikel Arteta knew exactly who deserved a massive chunk of the credit, his blockbuster Swedish striker, Viktor Gyökeres.

Arteta praises Gyokeres for his work rate

Shortly after the wild celebrations moved from the pitch into the dressing room, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano took to X to share Arteta’s glowing post-match comments.

The Spanish manager was absolutely buzzing, highlighting how his star forward has completely transformed the team’s ceiling.

While Arsenal have played beautiful, possession-heavy football for the last few years, Arteta noted that Gyökeres has finally given them an undeniably ruthless edge.

Arteta said: “Gyökeres tonight was immense, his work rate, the way he held the ball… fantastic”.

In just one season, Viktor Gyokeres has:

—Lead his Sweden to their first world cup in over a decade
—Lead Arsenal to a potential Premier League title
—Lead Arsenal to their first UCL final in 20 years
—Scored 20 goals and contributed 25 g/a in all competitions

What a season… pic.twitter.com/Oq0FbBZf73

— The Football Era (@FootballEra_) May 5, 2026

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Gyokeres is showing his worth at a crucial time

Coming off the back of a brilliant brace against Fulham over the weekend, Gyökeres once again proved that he is the ultimate big-game player.

To fully appreciate the massive impact of the Arsenal number nine, you just have to look at exactly how this semi-final tie played out.

Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid are the undisputed kings of the European dark arts. They are experts at frustrating teams, sitting deep, and bullying technically gifted players.

In seasons past, a younger, more naive Arsenal side might have completely crumbled under that immense physical pressure. But this time around, Gyökeres acted as the ultimate battering ram.

He happily occupied both central defenders all night, taking the heavy hits and continuously stretching the defensive line.

His goal in the first leg and his work rate in the second leg proved crucial for Arsenal in both the semifinals.

Saka gets big reaction from Henry & Richards as he says he knows who he wants Arsenal to play in CL final 

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Arsenal star Bukayo Saka got a big reaction from the pundits in the CBS Sports studio as he discussed who he wants to play in the Champions League final.

The Gunners were in celebratory mood last night as they made it to the final of Europe’s biggest club competition for the first time in 20 years and only the second time in their history.

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Saka scored the winner for Arsenal as they beat Atletico Madrid 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium and 2-1 on aggregate, and he was asked about his preferred final opponent out of Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain afterwards.

Watch below, however, as Saka insisted he couldn’t give an answer to that question from Micah Richards, though he dropped the cryptic line that “deep down” he knows who he wants to face…

Micah Richards asking Saka who he wants to face(Bayern/PSG) ? pic.twitter.com/dwKQcukJCu

— EMDG (@EmanDaGoon) May 5, 2026

Pictures from CBS Sports

This got a big reaction from the likes of Richards and Thierry Henry on the punditry team, and it’s interesting to think about what Saka could mean.

Who does Bukayo Saka want Arsenal to face in the Champions League final?

We will probably never know for sure which team Saka was talking about as Bayern prepare to host PSG at the Allianz Arena this evening for the second leg of their semi-final tie.

It may be that the England international has his eye on revenge on PSG for knocking them out in last season’s semi-final, which was a closer contest than the 3-1 aggregate score-line would suggest.

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May 6 2026, 7:43

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Then again, perhaps Saka is thinking back to Arsenal’s 3-1 win over Bayern earlier this season in the league phase of the competition, with the player and the rest of his teammates perhaps fancying their chances against a side they already know they can beat.

We’ll find out later who will be Arsenal’s opponents, with the two finalists set to meet in Budapest on the 30th of May.

The post Saka gets big reaction from Henry & Richards as he says he knows who he wants Arsenal to play in CL final appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea are once again on the hunt for a new permanent boss following the brutal sacking of Liam Rosenior last month.

Rosenior’s turbulent reign lasted a mere 107 days, leaving the Blues scrambling to secure European football after a dismal string of league results.

While caretaker manager Calum McFarlane is steadying the ship until the end of the campaign and has a massive FA Cup final against Manchester City to look forward to, the club’s hierarchy is intensely focused on the upcoming summer rebuild.

The Chelsea ownership is currently undergoing what is being described as a “period of self-reflection” following the Rosenior debacle.

They are absolutely desperate to find a coach whose tactical approach matches with their footballing identity.

Chelsea make approach to Xavi Hernandez

According to talkSPORT, the Blues have made contact with Spanish manager Xavi, who guided Barcelona to the La Liga title in the 2022–23 season season.

We already know that Fabregas isn’t expected to abandon his project at Como this summer.

Meanwhile, outgoing Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola is heavily admired by the board, but there are lingering concerns that his distinct tactical style might represent too much of a deviation from the club’s desired philosophy.

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May 6 2026, 7:43

Spaniard is interested in a move to the Premier League

This is exactly where Xavi comes into the picture. The legendary Spanish midfielder has been out of work since departing Barcelona in May 2024, but early indications suggest he is “open” to the prospect of taking the reins in West London.

Interestingly, the Premier League is a stage Xavi has had his eyes on for quite some time.

Back in 2019, he openly confessed his love for the English game, stating, “Who doesn’t like the Premier League?” and specifically naming Chelsea among the top clubs he would choose to manage.

Despite contacting Xavi, the report mentions that the Spaniard is no longer a contender for the Blues job and the hierarchy at Stamford Bridge is considering other options.

Chelsea pushing to sign £35m defensive star on Liverpool & Man United wishlist 

The post Report: 46-year-old La Liga winning manager approached by Chelsea appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Shortly before the final whistle, tempers flared once again in the Champions League semi-final between Arsenal and Atlético. While the Arsenal bench was calling for the whistle, Diego Simeone became furious and ran toward his former boss Andrea Berta. 

As the Arsenal chief was gesturing emphatically for the game to be ended, he was shoved by the Atlético coach. The two then had to be pulled apart. 

Several Arsenal and Atlético officials, together with the fourth official, Tobias Stieler, tried to calm the situation down. Simeone was shown a yellow card for it. 

Berta has been Arsenal’s sporting director for a year and previously worked with Simeone at Atlético for more than ten years. The Italian was first technical director from 2013 to 2017, then sporting director of the Rojiblancos for eight years. Over time, the two had maintained a friendly relationship. 

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.

Borussia Dortmund have finalized the signing of Liam Claude Kanté, according to local and often reliable source Ruhr Nachrichten.

The talented central defender looks set to move from Croatian club NK Lokomotiva Zagreb to Strobelallee this summer.

In Dortmund, Kanté will initially be introduced to his new environment via the U-19 team, but the Croatian U-15 international is highly rated.

Kanté, still only a 15-year-old is considered capable of making the jump to the professional ranks in the long term.

In the race to sign the defensive talent, Borussia Dortmund prevailed against renowned competition in the Bundesliga and abroad. 

Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig, TSG Hoffenheim, and some unnamed clubs from Italy were also believed to be courting him.

Kanté's decision to join the Black and Yellows is said to linked to the career plan presented to him by the club's management. 

Barcelona are already planning for life after Robert Lewandowski, and it appears the club has now identified one of its preferred candidates to eventually take over the striker position at Spotify Camp Nou. 

Reports coming out of SPORT suggest that Barcelona are seriously considering a move for Joao Pedro as the club prepares for a long-term transition in attack.

The Brazilian forward, currently playing for Chelsea, has emerged as one of the two leading names on Barcelona’s shortlist alongside Julian Alvarez. 

This development comes in the wake of Barcelona’s need to replace an ageing Lewandowski, whose contract expires at the end of the season.

Despite Chelsea enduring a difficult and inconsistent period, Joao Pedro has continued to stand out with his performances. 

Since arriving at the London club, the Brazilian has developed into a versatile attacker capable of playing centrally while also contributing creatively around the box. 

There have been contacts

As reported before, Deco has been following the player closely for quite some time. 

The former Barcelona midfielder has watched the Brazilian live on several occasions during visits to England and believes the forward has the profile needed to succeed under Hansi Flick. 

Barcelona are interested in Joao Pedro. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Beyond the sporting aspect, Barcelona also see strong commercial potential in the Brazilian, something they believe could further increase his value at the club.

As per the outlet, contact has already taken place between Barcelona and the player’s representatives. 

In fact, discussions have been ongoing over the past few weeks as the Catalan side explores whether a future operation could become financially possible.

What about the price?

One factor working in Joao Pedro’s favour is his expected price tag compared to Julian Alvarez. 

While Atlético Madrid would reportedly demand an enormous fee to even consider selling the Argentine striker, the Chelsea forward could become available for a lower amount, although the PL side would still seek a major transfer fee believed to be between €80 million and €100 million.

Barcelona’s financial situation means the club must be extremely careful with every major signing, but the intention to secure a long-term replacement for Lewandowski is becoming increasingly clear through these developments.

*Note: Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on the date of publication

Despite the growing uncertainty surrounding Vinicius Jr. and his contract situation, the possibility of Real Madrid selling the Brazilian superstar anytime soon still appears remote.

Fresh reports Ramon Alvarez de Mon suggest that although negotiations over a renewal are not progressing smoothly, those close to the situation believe a transfer in 2026 remains highly unlikely. 

The main reasons are both financial and sporting, as Real Madrid would struggle not only to negotiate a deal of such enormous value but also to find a player capable of replacing Vinicius’ impact on the pitch.

An important player for Real Madrid

The Brazilian forward has become one of the most decisive players in world football over the past few seasons. 

Hence, losing a player of that stature would create a massive gap in the squad, especially considering how difficult top attacking players are to find in the current market.

However, the contract issue continues to pose a big problem for the club.

The biggest concern for Real Madrid is that if Vinicius enters January 2027 without signing a new deal, he would officially move into the final six months of his contract. 

At that point, FIFA regulations would allow him to negotiate freely with any other club without Madrid having control over the situation.

Vinicius Jr. will not leave in the summer. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

That situation would represent a scenario Real Madrid have rarely experienced with a player of such importance and global value. 

The idea of one of the club’s biggest stars potentially walking away for free is viewed as an extremely dangerous situation.

So what now?

Even so, people close to the player insist that Vinicius still wants to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu for the long term. 

His commitment to the club has not changed, and there is currently no indication from his side that he is actively seeking an exit.

The only problem remains the overall economic package required to complete a renewal.

Any club interested in signing Vinicius would need to pay not only a gigantic transfer fee but also meet enormous salary demands. 

That financial reality alone makes a transfer incredibly difficult to execute, even for Europe’s wealthiest sides.

Manchester United ditched a 3-4-2-1 system with three centre-backs following the departure of Ruben Amorim at the turn of the year.

This development initially shifted United’s focus from targeting more central defenders to full-backs, as Michael Carrick re-introduced the 4-2-3-1 system at Old Trafford.

However, INEOS may be forced to address both areas, with the club’s recruitment team considering bringing in another defender.

Manchester United eyeing Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh

According to journalist Paddy Keogh, a move for a centre-back was not an option until April, as Manchester United felt comfortable with having Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, Lisandro Martinez, and Matthijs de Ligt at their disposal.

However, injury worries over Martinez and De Ligt have changed United’s stance. The Argentina international has made just 10 starts this term, and the Dutchman last played for the Red Devils in November. He is not expected to feature again this campaign.

The Premier League giants have extended Harry Maguire‘s contract after nearly letting him leave and are now looking to bulk up their options without making a considerable investment.

It is claimed United are closely watching Tromsø prodigy Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh, who “could be a cheap high-upside” defensive addition this summer.

The 19-year-old Gambian is thought to be valued at £4.3m and is also being chased by Chelsea, AC Milan and RB Leipzig after impressing with his consistent performances in Norway.

Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh is frighteningly quick

The 6’1″ tall defender is a unicorn profile of sorts, boasting a massive frame and lightning pace, having clocked a top speed of over 37 km/h this season. At United, Bryan Mbeumo is currently the fastest player with an electric top speed of 36.4km/h.

The figure also makes Sedi Kinteh as quick as Tottenham Hotspur’s “speed machine” Micky van de Ven.

Interestingly, Keogh adds that United are also extensively monitoring Van de Ven, Toulouse star Charlie Cresswell, SC Braga’s Bright Arrey-Mbi, and Sporting CP sensation Ousmane Diomande.

Sedi Kinteh is not the most exciting name on the list, but his price tag and profile certainly make him a very appealing target.

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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Liverpool have been tipped to sign an experienced centre-back in the summer transfer window.

Richard Hughes has taken steps to shore up the position long into the future - through the signings of Giovanni Leoni, Jeremy Jacquet and Mor Talla Ndiaye.

But given their age and relative lack of top-flight action there would be a risk attached to throwing those three in at the deep end.

There are question marks in the short term against most - if not all - of Liverpool’s senior centre-back options and that makes it imperative to secure the position.

Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez are out of contract in 2027 and it would be no surprise to see the Premier League champions entertain bids for the 28-year-old Englishman this summer.

More alarmingly Ibrahima Konate still hasn’t signed his new deal - despite claiming a couple of weeks ago that it was all but done.

Arne Slot wants Sam Beukema

Accordingly the likes of Micky van de Ven and Goncalo Inacio have been linked with a transfer to Merseyside. But one long-term Arne Slot favourite is beginning to emerge on the radar.

Sam Beukema, 27, was wanted by Slot when he was head coach of Feyenoord and the defender was starring for Go Ahead Eagles.

Slot missed out on a deal for his compatriot - who has since carved out a career for himself in Serie A. Beukema was picked up by Bologna from AZ back in 2023 before moving to Napoli last summer.

It hasn’t been the move that the 2024/25 Coppa Italia winner had been hoping for however with the outgoing Serie A champions now willing to cash in.

If 2026 has proved anything, it’s that the Premier League is an unforgiving place even for some of its biggest clubs. 

Chelsea are well versed in this fact, having been dealt their sixth consecutive top-flight defeat on Monday when a second string Nottingham Forest side crushed them 3-1 at Stamford Bridge.

That has taken the Blues to eight defeats since January, which is an awful lot in the span of just four months. But how does their record in the calendar year compare to the league’s biggest strugglers over that period?

The teams with the most Premier League defeats in 2026:

=4. Chelsea – 8

So Chelsea have not been the worst team in the Premier League this year, but they haven’t been far off it either. Their form since the New year would leave them sixth from bottom in the table, having won five, drawn three and lost eight of their matches.

They’ve scored 22 goals (and conceded 27) in that time, but only one of those goals has come in their last six outings, which was Joao Pedro’s acrobatic consolation against Forest this week.

Oddly, while things have been falling apart in the league, they reached the FA Cup final. Swings and roundabouts.

Read – Joao Pedro matches Hasselbaink and Costa feat for Chelsea

=4. Sunderland – 8

It’s not at all surprising that, after making such a strong start, Sunderland’s form has tailed off since the midway point of the campaign. With safety secured, they can afford to drop a few points here and there.

=2. Newcastle United – 9

It’s been a pretty disappointing campaign overall for Newcastle, but the past few months have been brutal for the Magpies. Four consecutive defeats from the end of March into April effectively killed any chance of qualifying for Europe next season and they might not even finish in the top half.

Eddie Howe’s men are still capable of getting themselves up for big matches, exemplified by Saturday’s 3-1 win over Brighton. They’ve beaten Manchester United and Chelsea, and drawn with Barcelona this year, but they severely lack consistency.

Read – Most goals scored by teenagers in a debut Premier League season

=2. Tottenham Hotspur – 9

Not exactly a shock to see this iteration of Spurs here, is it? But it is genuinely astounding how poor they have been this year.

It took Tottenham almost four full months to win their first game of 2026 in domestic competition, plunging them deep into the relegation battle. Roberto De Zerbi may have arrived in the nick of time, though; they are unbeaten in three, picking up seven points to take them out of the dropzone.

1. Burnley – 10

Remarkably, Wolves do not feature on this list. Unremarkably, Burnley are bottom. The Clarets have been dire all season long, which was pretty predictable given the lack of talent or investment in the squad.

After starting 2026 with just one defeat in four, they have lost all but three of the following 12 league matches. Their last win came against Crystal Palace in February, which was followed up by a shock defeat to Mansfield in the FA Cup just three days later.

Read – Iraola overlooked for dream job amid Premier League links

See Also – Premier League clubs with most away points in 2025/26

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West Ham United forward Crysencio Summerville is a target for leading Premier League clubs this summer, according to The Telegraph.

The Hammers expect to profit on the £25 million they paid to sign him when he joined the club two years ago.

West Ham would ideally love to keep the ‘fantastic’ Summerville, but if they go down, they may not be able to hold on to their best players.

Players like Summerville and Mateus Fernandes are already attracting keen interest, and more West Ham players will be targeted.

Summerville has bagged seven goals and four assists in 31 appearances this season, bouncing back phenomenally from an injury-riddled debut campaign.

He has been one of the few shining spots in what has been a very drab season at the London Stadium, and the interest in his services is unsurprising.

The Dutch youth international will be hot property as he is classed as home-grown after starting in Leeds United’s academy.

Squads are limited in the number of non-home-grown players they can register, meaning clubs will increasingly be searching for home-grown players.

West Ham should consider Wilfried Gnonto to replace Summerville if they go down

If West Ham do suffer relegation, they may have to revisit Elland Road for reinforcements once again to replace Summerville. Wilfried Gnonto is the perfect replacement.

The Italian attacker has struggled for consistent game time this season after Noah Okafor moved ahead of him in the pecking order, but his quality remains unquestionable.

Gnonto was a major part of Leeds’ promotion push last term, registering nine goals and six assists in 43 appearances as they climbed back into the Premier League.

At the Championship level, his explosiveness, direct dribbling, and ability to decide games in transition could make him a devastating weapon for West Ham.

If the Hammers are forced into a rebuild, targeting hungry, proven EFL performers like Gnonto may offer the quickest route back to the top flight.

• Arsenal, Chelsea & Barcelona had scouts in attendance for Ajax’s 2-2 draw vs PSV on Saturday
• Europe’s best sides interested in Ajax forward Mika Godts, including Man City & Bayern Munich
• Godts has scored 17 times this season, provided 14 assists in 40 games in all competitions

Manchester City are among a long list of clubs tracking Ajax winger Mika Godts ahead of the summer transfer window, according to reports from the Netherlands. 

Godts is enjoying a superb campaign in the Eredivisie, having found the net 17 times while garnering 14 assists in 40 appearances across all competitions for John Heitinga’s side, most recently scoring in a 2-2 draw with PSV on Saturday.

The talented left-winger has proven himself to be a consistent performer in the Dutch top-flight and has a contract running until the summer of 2029, making his potential exit a costly one.

FC Koln considering €8M permanent deal for Manchester City’s Jahmai Simpson-Pusey

What is Mika Godts like as a player?

Only time will tell whether can replicate his rising form in the Premier League but the 20-year-old certainly shows the strengths that come with being a positive and influential player. 

Not only is he a good dribbler with the ball, Godts can also make driving runs out wide with too. He can shoot from range or exploit defences in tight areas while possessing the vision to create wherever. 

So eye-catching is his talent that, according to Voetbal Primeur journalist Lentin Goodijk, Pep Guardiola’s side are among the clubs hoping to land the wonderboy in the summer transfer window.

Which clubs are interested in Mika Godts?

In addition to the interest from the Etihad Stadium, Arsenal, Chelsea and ManchesterUnited are other Premier League sides keeping their eyes peeled on the winger’s situation and some have sent scouts in recent weeks to monitor his performances in the Netherlands.

Godts has the option to explore various moves across Europe, with Barcelona also deploying scouts and BayernMunich retaining strong interest to keep the chase for his signature competitive.

With three years remaining on his current deal at the Johan Cruijff Arena, it will certainly be tough for HugoViana, City’s sporting director, to snap up a cheap deal for the forward – despite the Portuguese executive’s impressive track record of bringing bargained stars to the EtihadStadium since replacing long-serving official Txiki Begiristain last summer.

Manchester United accept defeat in Elliot Anderson chase as Manchester City plan £100M transfer talks

How would Mika Godts fit into Man City?

Most notably was Viana’s ability to lure AntoineSemenyo to east Manchester in the January transfer window before signing MarcGuehi for just £20 million to help with Guardiola’s title charge. 

Godts’s potential inclusion into City’s frontline would improve Guardiola’s options in the longer run – given he already has the ability to get into most Premier League starting squads. 

Whether he could cope with the league’s physical demands is yet to be seen but Guardiola already has a wide portfolio to show how he has turned the likes of KevinDeBruyne, RiyadMahrez and RayanCherki into one of the world’s very best.

Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna has confirmed the club will sign Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund this summer, per the Mirror. 

Hojlund joined the Serie A side on loan in the previous summer transfer window. 

He has impressed with his performances in Italy, scoring 14 goals and creating six assists in 41 appearances. 

Napoli will trigger the £38 million buy-out clause in his contract.   

The Denmark international has already agreed a new and improved long-term deal with the Blues. 

Hojlund began his career at HUI and Brondby before moving to fellow Danish outfit Copenhagen in 2020. 

His impressive performances for the Superliga club earned him a transfer to Sturm Graz, and then he moved to Atalanta for £14.6 million. 

United splashed £72m to secure Hojlund’s services in 2023, but he failed to make the desired impact in the Premier League. 

The Dane managed just 26 goals in 95 appearances across all competitions. 

United decided to cut their losses on the forward, allowing him to join Napoli on loan last summer. 

The Red Devils brought in Benjamin Sesko, who has hit the ground running at Old Trafford. 

Hojlund has also revived his career in Italy, playing a pivotal role to help his side do well this season. 

Napoli currently sit second in the Serie A table, and have won the Italian Super Cup by beating Bologna in the final. 

Stats from Transfermarkt

Coming back to the place where they won their first Champions League crown last season, PSG need no encouragement for taking on Bayern Munich today, said Luis Enrique. 

“We don't need any extra motivation, we're already at 100%. It brings back great memories when we go back to Munich; it will always be a real pleasure," he said at his press conference.

“We can remember last year, and if I go back even further, when I was the Barcelona coach, the year of our CL win, we played against Bayern in the semi-final, with the second leg in Munich. We went on to win the final.

“As a team, we have the same objective away from home as we do at home. We don't need to defend the result because the objective is to win,” he said.  

Regarding the pressure of the semi-final in Munich with only a goal between them, the PSG coach drew inspiration from compatriot and professional tennis star Rafael Nadal. 

“Both teams throughout the season, and in our case over the last two seasons, have shown their ability to handle difficult moments. We need to be more competitive than ever.

"When I see these kinds of matches, I remember Rafael Nadal saying that facing Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer was a motivation for him.

“He saw the potential to improve. We'll try to overcome the atmosphere [at the Allianz Arena] and a team that plays sensational football,” Enrique explained. 

Contract talks between Vinicius Jr. and Real Madrid are facing a major obstacle as both parties continue to remain far apart financially. 

According to reports from Ramon Alvarez de Mon, negotiations between the two parties have slowed significantly because of the salary demands being requested by the Brazilian star’s camp. 

Vinicius’ representatives are pushing for a package worth close to €30 million net per season, while Real Madrid are currently unwilling to go beyond approximately €20 million net.

That gap is understood to be the central reason why no agreement has been reached yet.

Details of the matter

The situation is particularly delicate because Vinicius is one of the faces of the club, both on and off the pitch. 

The 25-year-old’s importance has only increased following the departures and ageing of several senior figures, and Madrid internally view him as one of the pillars of the next generation.

However, despite the player repeatedly expressing his desire to continue at the Santiago Bernabeu for many years, the financial side of the negotiations is creating growing uncertainty.

Still no development in Vinicius’ contract renewal. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)

Real Madrid are also cautious about how they structure the new agreement. 

The club does not want to create a dangerous precedent by offering massive renewal bonuses or excessively inflated salaries that could later affect future negotiations with other stars in the dressing room. 

Maintaining wage balance is of extreme importance, especially with several young players expected to demand improved contracts in the near future.

Approaching final year

One particular scenario that worries Madrid is the possibility of the contract entering its final stages without an agreement. 

If Vinicius reaches January 2027 without renewing, he would legally be free to negotiate with any club as a free agent. 

For a player of his age, quality and commercial value, such a situation would be unprecedented for Real Madrid.

For now, both sides remain calm, but the longer negotiations continue without progress, the bigger this story could become inside the Spanish capital.

Barcelona are already preparing for a busy summer transfer window and strengthening the left wing appears to be one of the club’s biggest priorities ahead of next season. 

With the squad expected to undergo several changes, the Catalan giants are now keeping a close eye on multiple attacking profiles across Europe.

According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugrana currently have six different names on their shortlist as they search for a winger capable of adding pace, creativity and goals from the left side of attack.

The impossible dreams

One of the most surprising names being linked with the club is Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United. 

The English winger has impressed with his intensity and direct style in the Premier League, qualities that Barça believe could suit Flick’s system. 

However, the biggest obstacle is the financial side of the operation, as Newcastle value the player at around €85 million, a figure that currently looks far beyond Barcelona’s comfort zone.

Another player attracting serious attention is Victor Munoz, who has emerged as one of the breakout stars in La Liga this season with Osasuna. 

Notably, Real Madrid still hold significant control over the player’s future after keeping 50 percent of his rights and also securing favourable buyback clauses. 

He has a release clause worth €40 million in his contract and if Barcelona decide to activate it, as much as €20 million would go to Real Madrid’s coffers.

Jan Virgili is still on Barcelona’s radar. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

That reality makes any potential Barça move extremely complicated politically and financially.

The more realistic options

Barcelona are also monitoring Jan Virgili, a former La Masia talent now developing at Mallorca. 

The Catalans previously sold part of his rights, meaning they would now need to negotiate a costly return if they decide to move seriously for him.

Meanwhile, Mika Godts of Ajax is quickly gaining admirers inside the club. 

Barcelona scouts reportedly watched him closely during Ajax’s recent clash against PSV, where the young winger delivered an impressive performance, scoring and assisting. 

His lower valuation compared to some of the other targets makes him an attractive option.

Two more names completing the shortlist are Andreas Schjelderup of SL Benfica and former Barcelona player Ez Abde, who has enjoyed an excellent spell at Real Betis. 

Barcelona still retain a percentage of Abde’s rights, something that could help lower the overall cost if the club decides to bring him back.

Arsenal claimed a 1-0 win over Atletico Madrid at the Emirates Stadium to progress to the UEFA Champions League final.

The Gunners are on the verge of sealing a double after Mikel Arteta’s side found another gear to dispatch the Spanish side.

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice was the official man of the match, but he reserved praise for teammate Myles Lewis-Skelly, who was equally outstanding.

Rice said (via the BBC): “We have always known what Myles can do. I remember last year when he played so many games.

“Last year, when he stepped up, Real Madrid away at the Bernabeu at 18 – I thought: ‘Wow, what a player.’

“The manager has been tough on him behind the scenes. He has kept his head down, and he has worked so hard.

“He is in early, gym and works hard. To be thrown in at the deep end and perform how he did is no surprise to me.”

The Arsenal academy graduate won 3/3 aerial duels, made one key pass, and recorded two progressive carries.

Lewis-Skelly could help define Arsenal’s season. Arteta’s side looked strangely flat when Martin Zubimendi operated in midfield.

The Gunners lacked the intensity, drive, and verticality that have powered them through the campaign.

The decision to turn to Lewis-Skelly for the last two matches has completely changed the dynamic for Arsenal.

The teenager brings aggression without the ball, carries possession fearlessly through pressure, and injects energy into the midfield.

Yesterday, he played with the maturity of a seasoned international rather than a teenager experiencing the biggest nights of his career.

Arteta may have stumbled upon the perfect balance at exactly the right moment.

With the Premier League title race entering its decisive stage and a Champions League final now looming, Lewis-Skelly’s athleticism could become a major weapon.

On current evidence, he looks capable of helping drive Arsenal toward a historic double.

Barcelona are in the market for a new striker and have eyes on Bournemouth star Eli Junior Kroupi, according to Sky Sports.

The France Under-21 international centre-forward has caught the eye this season, bagging 12 goals in his debut Premier League campaign.

Kroupi’s exploits have caught the attention of several clubs, with Manchester United, Manchester City, and Arsenal linked. Barcelona are the latest to show interest.

Barca are preparing to lose Robert Lewandowski this summer when his contract expires, and they need a replacement.

Barcelona’s first-choice target to fill the gap is Julian Alvarez, but securing his services might prove too expensive. Kroupi is a cheaper alternative.

However, Bournemouth are adamant that Kroupi is not for sale this summer, as they look to keep the talented young centre-forward.

There is no doubt Kroupi has the talent to reach the very top.

Still, Barcelona would be taking a huge gamble by placing the burden of replacing Lewandowski on the shoulders of a 19-year-old still learning the demands of elite football.

Lewandowski is not just any departing striker. He is one of the greatest goalscorers of his generation, a player who delivered time after time in front of goal for over a decade.

Barcelona cannot afford to downgrade experience and reliability for raw potential alone.

One strong campaign at Bournemouth is not enough evidence that Kroupi is ready to lead the line for a club where every match carries enormous pressure and scrutiny.

The jump is too big, too soon.

From the player’s perspective, the move also feels premature.

Bournemouth are giving him regular minutes, trust, and the perfect environment to develop without overwhelming expectations.

Another year or two refining his game in the Premier League would benefit him far more than rushing into a career-defining transfer before he is fully ready.

Chelsea have stepped up their long term interest in Club Brugge centre back Joel Ordonez according to reports.

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Having been quiet in January, the Blues are once again expected to be busy this summer with reinforcements required in a number of areas of the squad.

Chelsea are said to still be in the market for a centre back, whilst it’s believed they want to add another midfielder and attacker.

Chelsea step up interest in Joel Ordonez

The Blues have struggled defensively this season, and haven’t kept a clean sheet in the Premier League since January.

Chelsea were boosted by the return of Levi Colwill in Monday’s defeat to Nottingham Forest, as he made his first appearance since suffering an ACL injury.

The Blues desperately need to add at least one starting level quality centre back, and have been linked with both Murillo and Jan Paul van Hecke.

However, it appears there’s another name on their radar in Ordonez, and TEAMtalk have reported Chelsea have stepped up their interest in the Ecuadorian.

The report adds Chelsea sent scouts to watch the 22-year-old in action over the weekend, and have been impressed with his development.

TEAMtalk add Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham and Aston Villa have also shown interest, whilst the Ecuador international will cost around €40m.

Ordonez is under contract until 2029, and has made 42 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring four goals.

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In other news…

It’s been reported nothing is going on between Chelsea and Xavi Hernandez, despite suggestions the Blues had reached out to the Spaniard.

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Chelsea are still in the process of deciding who their new head coach will be after sacking Liam Rosenior last month.

Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva and Xabi Alonso are three names said to feature highly in their thinking at this point in time.

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:

Manchester United have prioritised the academy in recent years under Ineos’ stewardship.

Focus

The Red Devils have spent significant sums trying to bring in some of the most exciting players at youth level.

Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi were plucked from Arsenal’s academy.

Sekou Kone, Diego Leon and Cristian Orozco have also been signed from abroad to enhance the strength of the academy.

This has resulted in strong performances, with the under-21s progressing to the semi-final of the playoffs against Manchester City.

The under-18s have also reached the final of the prestigious FA Youth Cup, where they will again face City next week.

Continued restructuring

United have also been restructuring at the decision-making level, as Darren Hughes was poached from Manchester City as a coach to work under academy head Stephen Torpey.

The Daily Mail reports that United are not yet done in reshaping their academy team.

The paper states that, “United have launched another raid on Newcastle’s academy in a bid to strengthen their recruitment operation.”

The Red Devils had made an offer for Newcastle’s head of youth recruitment, Paul Midgley, in December but he turned down the role.

The Daily Mail is now stating that the club “have headhunted their Premier League rivals’ lead youth technical scout Harvey Busby to fill the role of lead national scout at Carrington.”

Were he to accept the role, it is thought he would be in charge of the under-14 to under-16 age group.

The Red Devils also famously enticed former sporting director Dan Ashworth away from Newcastle in 2024, but he only lasted a matter of months at the club before being replaced by Jason Wilcox.

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Liverpool must intervene as Manchester United look to sign an ideal midfielder.

The Telegraph reports that Manchester United are looking into a deal for West Ham United midfielder Matheus Fernandes. The Portuguese star is expected to be available, especially if the Hammers are relegated.

The 21-year-old has his admirers and United could try to snap him up on the cheap. If that is their plan, it’s one Liverpool should absolutely hijack.

There is no greater need at Liverpool than a solid midfielder and Fernandes is one of those. He wins the ball, moves it on, and has consistently been doing that over the last couple of seasons.

Enough so that we pitched the idea of signing him a year ago as he went down with Southampton. One of the best tackling midfielders in the Premier League, Fernandes also completes around 87 per cent of his passes and is one of the most consistent dribblers in the position.

All in all, that’s exactly what Liverpool lack in the middle. Someone who can win the ball back and limit his mistakes on the ball.

The fact Fernandes does it at 21 is even better - a long-term option who would, at the very least, bring a dimension that no other Liverpool midfielder can offer.

So don’t let United snap him up! Fernandes should be a Liverpool player.

Matheus Fernandes: Situation Summary

West Ham Performance and Stats

As of 4 May 2026, Mateus Fernandes (often referred to as Matheus) has emerged as the standout performer in an otherwise difficult season for West Ham United. The 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder, who joined from Southampton for €46 million last summer, has recorded three goals and three assists in the Premier League. He played the full 90 minutes in a 3–1 defeat to Brentford on 2 May, maintaining his status as a permanent fixture in Nuno Espírito Santo’s midfield. Despite the club sitting just two points above the relegation zone, Fernandes has earned widespread praise for his technical ability and work rate, currently holding an average rating of 6.84.

Transfer Speculation and Heavyweight Interest

Fernandes’ rapid ascent has made him a primary target for Europe’s elite. Reports from 4 May 2026 confirm that Manchester United have identified him as a priority for their summer rebuild following their return to the Champions League. Manchester City and Liverpool are also reportedly monitoring the player, with City’s sporting director Hugo Viana—who knows the player from Sporting CP—tracking his progress closely. While West Ham are determined to keep him regardless of their league status, a valuation of approximately £55–65 million has been discussed.

International Standing

Fernandes made his senior international debut for Portugal in a friendly against the United States in April 2026. Given his domestic form, he is widely expected to be named in Roberto Martínez’s squad for the 2026 World Cup this June.

Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has called out the Chelsea owners for making their biggest mistake – there’s been many.

When you look back at the amount of mistakes that these new Chelsea owners have made in the four years they have owned the club, you will have lost count of them. It’s been pure ignorance, but some of the mistakes have been bigger than others.

EXCLUSIVE! Chelsea contact former Blues player for shock return to the club this summer!

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Mikel has rightfully called out their biggest mistake though, or at least it is their biggest mistake in my opinion – they have literally gutted out the entire club of anyone who was formerly here under the previous ownership and they have refused to bring in any former players to any roles. John Terry has a tiny role in the academy, but that’s literally it.

Mikel calls it out

Job Obi Mikel lays into Chelsea’s owners.

In words picked up on X this week, Mikel said on his latest Podcast:

“It’s this thing of BlueCo not wanting anyone who represented the football club before and who helped build the club to what it is today. They don’t want the people still, which is the wrong thing to do.

“You need to continue that success. You need the people who knew what it took to build the football club to what it is today. You need the people to continue the success, the culture. We don’t have that any more.”

In other news today..

Chelsea’s transfer of Joao Pedro worked out, and the club will surely try to repeat the trick this summer in the market. He’s been a rare example of buying proven quality for the here and now.

Chelsea have ruled out an attempt to bring Xavi Hernandez in as their new manager according to Ben Jacobs’ reporting today. What’s odd is that it was Jacobs who reported Chelsea made contact with Xavi just moments before he said this!?

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Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:

Napoli Sporting Director Giovanni Manna has confirmed the club will be signing Rasmus Hojlund from Manchester United this summer.

As a result, the forward’s Red Devils tenure will come to an end after three years, only two of which he spent actually playing for United.

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Rasmus Hojlund to join Napoli in June

When Hojlund made the switch to Naples last summer, it was swiftly revealed that a buy obligation worth £38 million had been included in the terms, which they would have to activate if they qualified for the Champions League.

Although Napoli have maintained since early on his loan spell that they intended to keep hold of the Dane, the clause will automatically have to be fulfilled in the coming weeks when the side book their UCL spot.

Unfortunately for Antonio Conte and his men, they were unable to retain their Scudetto following last season’s triumph, as Inter Milan claimed the title over the weekend with three games left to play.

However, they did lift silverware midway through the campaign when winning the Italian Super Cup back in December.

How is Hojlund getting on over in Italy?

In regard to how Hojlund, whom United signed for an initial £64m, has fared in sky blue, he has enjoyed a revitalised run in comparison to 2024/2025, when he returned only four Premier League goals in 32 appearances.

The 23-year-old has notched 14 goals and six assists in 42 appearances across all competitions in 2025/2026, including 10 in the league and three in Europe.

At the time United chiefs were negotiating his departure, it’s thought Hojlund was desperate to stay put and prove himself to INEOS.

Hojlund’s complete record for United

Yet, with how United’s frontline has performed in his absence and how he’s been able to enjoy his football under less scrutiny, it goes without saying that the impending deal is the best outcome for all parties.

“There are no doubts. Rasmus will stay here,” said Manna (as cited by Mirror Sport) when weighing in on the striker’s future. “We have an obligation to buy from Manchester United in case of Champions League access, but he is in our plans regardless of this condition.”

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While Alvaro Carreras started strong at Real Madrid after arriving in the summer, his descent has been as swift as his ascent was a few months ago.

From being an undisputed starter to going behind Ferland Mendy and Fran Garcia, a lot has changed for Carreras in recent months and there are conflicting reports as to why the player has lost the manager’s faith.

The decision does not appear to be tactical but rather due to a reported rift between the new signing and the coaching staff.

Carreras’ statement

Taking to his personal Instagram account yesterday, the Real Madrid defender addressed the news of him rumouredly losing his spot under Alvaro Arbeloa due to poor professionalism and dedication.

“In recent days, certain insinuations and comments about me have emerged that do not correspond to reality.”

“My commitment to this club and to the coaches I’ve had has been unwavering since day one, and it will continue to be so,” he added.

Alvaro Carreras has assured his commitment to Real Madrid. (Source: Instagram)

Commenting on how he has always given his all for the club crest, the Spanish defender said,

“Since I returned, I have always worked with the highest level of professionalism, respect, and dedication. I have fought very hard to fulfil my dream of returning home.”

Finally, he confirmed that there was truth to his altercation with a teammate behind the scenes, although he did not take any names or get into specifics.

“Regarding the incident with a teammate, it was an isolated matter without importance that has already been resolved. My relationship with the entire team is very good.”

With El Clasico coming up this weekend, it will be interesting to see who the management sees as the best candidate to hold off Barcelona’s threat down the flank. 

Barcelona’s plans for the summer transfer window may already be facing a serious complication as one of the club’s top targets is beginning to lose patience. 

Reports emerging from Mundo Deportivo suggest that Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni is no longer willing to wait endlessly for the Catalan giants to make their move official.

The Italian international has been heavily linked with Barcelona for months, with the club viewing him as one of the ideal options to strengthen the backline ahead of next season. 

The defender is admired internally for his composure on the ball, tactical intelligence and ability to fit naturally into Hansi Flick’s system.

There was an offer

Barcelona’s interest in Bastoni is understood to be genuine, as the club approached the defender in April and even presented him with a five-year contract proposal. 

The player accepted the idea of joining Barça in principle, but everything depended on final approval from Flick and the sporting department.

For weeks, Bastoni remained calm and optimistic. The message reaching his camp was that the transfer would eventually happen once Barcelona finalised their sporting plans for next season. 

Bastoni wants to have better clarity from Barcelona. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

However, despite the club moving closer to securing the La Liga title in recent weeks, no official offer has yet arrived at Inter Milan and that delay is now beginning to frustrate the defender.

Bastoni growing impatient

It is said that Bastoni wants clarity regarding his future and does not want to enter the summer surrounded by uncertainty. 

More importantly, the Italian centre-back only wants to leave Inter if he feels truly important to Barcelona’s project. 

He is said to value the confidence of the coach above everything else and wants guarantees that he would play a leading role under Flick.

At the same time, the situation is not creating panic for the player personally. Bastoni remains very happy at Inter, where he is considered one of the pillars of the squad. 

The Serie A giants continue to trust him completely, and the player himself sees the club as one of the best teams in the world.

Still, Barcelona remain the one exception that could tempt him away from Italy.

Bruno Fernandes has had a brilliant season for Manchester United and media speculation continues to link him with a move away from Old Trafford.

The Portuguese midfielder could make history this season by providing the most assists in a single Premier League season. He is just two assists away from the record.

Naturally, his form and consistency has attracted interest from some of the top clubs.

According to Sky Germany, Turkish heavyweights Galatasaray have identified Man United captain Fernandes as their absolute “dream target” for the upcoming window.

Galatasaray eyeing move for Bruno Fernandes

The Istanbul outfit is reportedly desperate to initiate formal contact with the player’s camp, hoping to pull off one of the biggest European transfer heists of the entire year.

To be completely fair to Galatasaray, their immense admiration for the Portuguese magnifico is absolutely nothing new.

The Turkish giants actually tried their luck by attempting to tempt him away from Old Trafford back in January of this year, but those initial efforts were quickly and firmly rebuffed.

However, after watching Fernandes put together yet another stunning individual campaign, racking up a massive 28 goal involvements across all competitions even at 33 years old, their desire to bring him to Rams Park has only intensified.

They clearly view him as the ultimate marquee signing required to elevate their squad to the next tier of European competition.

Prying Fernandes away from the red half of Manchester right now feels like a completely impossible mission.

Fernandes’ stats this season

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Portuguese star remain crucial to Man United

As we saw recently during United’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Liverpool, the captain remains the undisputed, beating heart of this squad.

Having just helped interim boss Michael Carrick successfully steer the club back into the promised land of the Champions League, Fernandes is currently riding a massive emotional high.

Furthermore, his contract at Old Trafford runs safely until June 2027.

This is a player who recently turned his back on astronomical sums of money, including a heavily reported £200 million mega-offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal last summer, simply because of his profound, unshakeable connection to the Man United badge.

If he wasn’t willing to cash out for unbelievable Saudi riches, it is incredibly difficult to imagine him suddenly abandoning his current project for a move to the Turkish Süper Lig, especially just as magical Champions League nights are returning to Old Trafford.

Man United ready to pounce on rivals to sign “ultimate Premier League midfielder”

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Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta could be seen having a major touchline row with Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone during last night’s Champions League semi-final.

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It’s not clear precisely what went on between the pair, but there’s clearly some bad blood after their time working together with the La Liga club.

See below for a video of the incident, though it possibly doesn’t capture the entire context of what went down, with additional footage and reporting from TNT Sports suggesting Simeone may have started it by pushing a member of Arsenal’s coaching staff…

Video footage shows Diego Simeone in a heated touchline confrontation with Andrea Berta late in the match. #ucl https://t.co/yqmySARrep pic.twitter.com/OZA68zqxsV

— Arsenal Radar (@ArsenalRadar) May 6, 2026

Tensions were clearly high towards the end of such a big game, with Arsenal eventually going through after a 1-0 victory on the night, and a 2-1 win over both legs of the tie.

Simeone is known for being a bit of a fiery character, so it’s possible that he didn’t show his best side here as he looked to get his team back into the game.

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Arsenal get past Atletico Madrid into Champions League final

In the end, Arsenal held on to their lead in a close and intriguing tie against Simeone’s side to make it to only their second ever Champions League final.

The Gunners have had to wait 20 years for this moment, with the club last reaching the final of this competition in 2006 when they were beaten 2-1 by Barcelona.

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May 5 2026, 23:31

Mikel Arteta’s side are also top of the Premier League in what could still be a memorable season, though they will likely be underdogs in the Champions League final whether they end up facing Bayern Munich or Paris Saint-Germain.

The post Video: Arsenal chief has to be held back during bizarre row with Diego Simeone appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has put out his latest information on Chelsea’s new manager search this week.

Blues fans are eagerly anticipating any news on who the next manager might be. Some of them are desperate for news in fact.

EXCLUSIVE! Chelsea contact former Blues player for shock return to the club this summer!

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But the fact is at the moment, I don’t think any of us will know who the new manager will be until the end of the season, which is when the club are expected to announce them.

There is a load of speculation flying around in the mean time though, but none of it is holding much weight to it at the moment. Even news of Xavi being contacted yesterday was quickly shut down by top sources.

Romano’s latest on manager search

Xavi Hernandez managing Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Romano reported yesterday:

“There is nothing ongoing between Chelsea and Xavi Hernandez. That’s my understanding as of today.

“If tomorrow morning they decide to meet. I will let you know. But as of today, beginning of May, zero contacts between Xavi and Chelsea.

“Chelsea continued their process to find a new manager. The feeling at the club is that they are still at early stages, talking to candidates, representatives of candidates, and preparing the final list. But still nothing advanced, still nothing decided.”

In other news today..

Chelsea’s transfer of Joao Pedro worked out, and the club will surely try to repeat the trick this summer in the market. He’s been a rare example of buying proven quality for the here and now.

Chelsea have ruled out an attempt to bring Xavi Hernandez in as their new manager according to Ben Jacobs’ reporting today. What’s odd is that it was Jacobs who reported Chelsea made contact with Xavi just moments before he said this!?

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CHELSEA NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON THE APP STORE

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:

Tigres return home to play the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinal against Nashville.

The Tigers hold a 1-0 advantage on the scoreboard, with an away goal, but they cannot let up because one mistake would knock them out of the competition. 

Tigres XI

Nashville XI

Don’t miss the match details with OneFootball. 

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

In Paraguay, Santos are drawing 0-0 with Recoleta in the fourth round of the Conmebol Sudamericana group stage.

The score, however, could have changed in the first half if Gabigol had "lived up to" his nickname.

In the 20th minute of the opening half, the Peixe No. 9 missed an open goal, unmarked and inside the six-yard box, sending Rollheiser’s pass wide.

And the even more "cruel" detail is that Neymar was right behind him, in position to send the ball into the back of the Paraguayan net.

With the partial result, Santos remain on three points and still at the bottom of Group D.

In the Sudamericana, only the group leader advances directly to the round of 16.

The team that finishes second has to play a playoff against a side eliminated from the Libertadores.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Manchester United are currently leading the race to sign Atalanta’s Ederson, ahead of other top clubs including Arsenal, according to prominent Italian journalist Matteo Moretto.

The 26-year-old Brazilian, who has been a standout performer in Serie A, is increasingly likely to head to Old Trafford this summer.

While Atletico Madrid were previously considered the frontrunners, United’s financial muscle and a lucrative contract offer have shifted the momentum firmly in their favor.

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Man United leading the race to sign Ederson

Speaking via Fabrizio Romano’s YouTube channel, Moretto revealed that several Premier League sides have stepped up their interest.

However, the Red Devils have made the most significant move, reportedly offering a salary that surpasses the proposals currently on the table from Spain.

Moretto said: “I can tell you that Manchester United are currently the club that has shown the most interest, offering around €4.5 million net per year.

“Arsenal have also made enquiries, though Ederson is not a priority for them. Right now, United appear to have the strongest financial capacity.”

While a personal agreement seems closer, United still face the task of negotiating a transfer fee with Atalanta.

The Italian side is known to be tough negotiators and is expected to demand a high fee, likely in the region of £39 million (€45-50m), for their midfield engine.

Man United need to bolster the midfield this summer

The pursuit of Ederson comes at a critical time for Manchester United’s midfield.

Following a season of transition under Michael Carrick, the club is preparing for a significant clearing of the decks.

Manuel Ugarte is expected to be sold after failing to cement a regular starting spot, while veteran Casemiro has decided to leave the club at the end of this season, with interest from the MLS.

With Kobbie Mainoo recently signing a new long-term deal until 2031, United have secured a generational talent to build around.

However, the departures mean, United will need to bring in replacements.

To bolster the squad for their return to the Champions League, United are reportedly looking to sign at least two midfielders.

The post “I can tell you” – Journalist confirms Man United have made a strong offer for €50m star in exciting update appeared first on CaughtOffside.

While Atletico Madrid were largely gracious in defeat to Arsenal in their Champions League semi-final on Tuesday night, there were a couple of incidents that threatened that adjective. Diego Simeone may argue that it was one of Arsenal’s staff members that crossed the line in the dying stages.

As the clock ticked down in stoppage time, the tense Simeone caught view of a particularly demonstrative Arsenal staff member. It turned out to be none other than Andrea Berta, Arsenal’s Sporting Director, who had come down to the pitch, and was seen gesticulating widly for the referee to blow the full-time whistle.

Simeone and Berta separated during closing stages

Simeone, upon seeing him, made a B-line for the Italian, and the shoved him. The two had to then be separated by other staff members and the fourth official, with the Argentine picking up a booking in the process. He then protested that he was simply telling him to leave the area. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also picked up a yellow card during stoppage time for his hyperactivity during the closing stages.

Berta spent eight years at Atletico Madrid

A layer of intrigue is added to the incident by the fact the pair were long-term colleagues. Berta spent eight years at Atletico Madrid, working alongside Simeone at the Metropolitano. He only left 18 months, joining Arsenal shortly afterwards.

During their time together at the club, there were plenty of rumblings that they did not always see eye-to-eye on players and recruitment, most notably when it came to the club’s record transfer, Joao Felix. Berta was usurped in the hierarchy by Director of Football Carlos Bucero. Since, Mateu Alemany has come in as sporting director, and is believed to be wielding the power, with Simeone, when it comes to signings.

Santos take the field this Tuesday (5) at 9:30 p.m. (Brasília time), when they face Recoleta in Paraguay in the fourth round of the 2026 Conmebol Sudamericana group stage.

Peixe are bottom of Group D with two points and need a win if they want to keep any chance of qualifying alive.

The Paraguayans have three points, behind Deportivo Cuenca (four points) and San Lorenzo (five points), who play at 11 p.m. (Brasília time).

Compared to the last match (a 1-1 draw with Palmeiras in the Brasileirão), coach Cuca opted to bring in João Ananias and Neymar in place of Luan Peres and Barreal, respectively, for Santos.

In the Sudamericana, only the group leader advances directly to the round of 16.

The team that finishes second must play a playoff against a team eliminated from the Libertadores.

📋 Check out Santos' lineup

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Viktor Gyokeres’ overall play as Arsenal’s focal point, both on and off the ball, has seen a marked improvement in recent weeks, and Premier League legend Alan Shearer believes the transformation is down to a specific tactical tweak by Mikel Arteta’s side.

The Swedish powerhouse has not been able to repeat the his outrageous goalscoring numbers from last season and often struggled with the physicality as well, but he has improved as the season went.

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Alan Shearer on how Arsenal have improved Viktor Gyokeres

According to Shearer, the secret behind this surge in form lies in the service provided by the Arsenal midfield.

Speaking as a pundit on Amazon Prime during Arsenal’s vital victory in the Champions League semi-final, Shearer noted that the Gunners have finally learned how to maximize their striker’s unique skillset.

Shearer elaborated that early service prevents opposition defenders from doubling up on the Swede, allowing him to use his explosive pace and strength in one-on-one situations.

By eliminating the extra touches in the buildup, Arsenal have turned Gyokeres from a target man into a devastating transitional weapon.

He said (via BBC Sport): “One of the things I think Arsenal have improved on is Gyokeres. They need to play the ball quick and early to him, and it’s something they’ve done more of in the last few weeks.”

Gyokeres has been praised by Wayne Rooney

It isn’t just Shearer who has been impressed by the forward’s development. Former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney also recently praised him for becoming the focal point that Arsenal missed.

Following his best ever performance in an Arsenal shirt against Fulham, Rooney said the following about Gyokeres:

“I’ve liked Gyokeres all season. I think he does so well for the team. He occupies defenders and I think his goal tally has been good this season. This is when you need him now, during the run-in. This is what you need when you bring a no. 9 into the club. This is when you need them most.”

The post Alan Shearer reveals the one Arsenal tweak behind Viktor Gyokeres’ recent improvement appeared first on CaughtOffside.

West Ham United are interested in signing the Wolves defender, Santiago Bueno, at the end of the season.

The 27-year-old has done well for Wolves despite a disappointing season, and he is on the radar of top clubs. According to a report from Football Insider, West Ham are hoping to get the deal done for him in the summer.

It remains to be seen whether they come forward with an official offer in the coming weeks. Leeds are also keen on Bueno.

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Santiago Bueno to West Ham?

Bueno will want to compete at the highest level, and leaving Wolves in the summer would be ideal for him. However, West Ham will need to secure Premier League safety to attract him. They are not guaranteed to compete in the Premier League next season. They are still fighting for survival, and it remains to be seen whether they can finish the season strongly.

They have been quite poor defensively, and the 27-year-old will certainly help them improve. He has impressed in the Premier League since 2023, and he is a reliable performer in the top flight. He will help West Ham tighten up defensively.

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Bueno is set to move on

Meanwhile, Wolves will be under pressure to sell key players in the summer, especially now that they have been relegated to the Championship. Top players will not want to compete in the second division of English football.

It remains to be seen whether any other club is prepared to provide Bueno with an exit route. The report claims that Crystal Palace and Brentford are also monitoring his situation. All three clubs could be exciting opportunities for the 27-year-old defender.

The post Relegation fallout could help West Ham land 27-year-old defensive star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Newcastle United attacker Anthony Gordon has been linked with multiple clubs in recent weeks.

The 25-year-old has 22 goal contributions this season, and he has been quite impressive for the Premier League club. He has the quality to play for a bigger club in future, and the likes of Barcelona and Bayern Munich are interested in him.

Gordon has also been linked with Arsenal and Liverpool.

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Anthony Gordon offered a contract by Bayern Munich

According to Florian Plettenberg (h/t The Mag), the German champions have offered the England international a five-year contract, and it will be interesting to see whether they can convince the player to join the club.

The player’s agent has also met with Barcelona sporting director Deco. It remains to be seen what he decides.

The 25-year-old is at the peak of his career, and this could be the right time for him to move on and join a bigger club where he can fight for major trophies.

Newcastle are still in a period of transition, and they are likely to finish in the mid-table this season. It is unlikely that they will be able to challenge for major trophies next year. Gordon will not want to waste his peak years, and joining an elite club will be quite attractive for him.

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Where will Gordon end up?

Bayern Munich and Barcelona are both attractive destinations for the player, and it remains to be seen where he ends up. The 25-year-old can operate on the flanks as well as centrally. His versatility would be a huge bonus for both clubs.

Bayern Munich need more depth in the attacking unit, and Gordon could be the ideal cover for Harry Kane, Michael Olise and Luis Diaz. He can operate anywhere across the front three, and he would be a very useful acquisition for the club.

On the other hand, Barcelona will need more quality going forward. They will be hoping to win the UEFA Champions League and need a deeper squad. Signing the versatile Newcastle attacker could be a wise decision.

The post European giants circle as Newcastle star receives offer ahead of summer move appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Radu Dragusin has been linked with a move away from Tottenham Hotspur at the end of the season, and they are prepared to cash in on him.

The Romanian defender has been a squad player for Tottenham and needs to leave to play more often. He is at the peak of his career, and sitting on the bench at the London club will not appeal to him.

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Radu Dragusin needs a move

Dragusin will look to get his career back on track with regular opportunities. He was an impressive defender for Genoa during his time in Italy. He has been linked with multiple clubs, and it will be interesting to see where he ends up.

According to a report from Sportsboom, RB Leipzig, Roma and Juventus are interested in signing the defender. Tottenham would be prepared to sanction his departure for a fee of around €20-€25 million. It is a reasonable asking price for a player of his quality, and it remains to be seen whether the interested parties are prepared to pay up.

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Where will Dragusin end up?

Dragusin has shown his quality in Italy, and the move to Roma or Juventus could be ideal for him. Returning to his comfort zone could help him discover his form and confidence.

On the other hand, a move to Germany could be exciting for him as well. RB Leipzig have an exciting project and a talented squad. They could provide him with regular opportunities. It will be interesting to see whether the player is willing to take on a new challenge and move to Germany.

Meanwhile, Tottenham might need to invest in multiple central defenders at the end of the season. Apart from the Romanian, Cristian Romero or Micky van de Ven could also be on the way out of the club.

The post Tottenham ready to cash in as European giants circle 24-year-old first-team ace appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Leeds United are keen on signing Dynamo Dresden midfielder Kofi Amoako at the end of the season.

The 20-year-old defensive midfielder is highly rated across Europe and a report from BILD claims that Leeds are monitoring his progress.

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Leeds keen on Kofi Amoako

The Germany Under-20 international could be a quality long-term investment for the Premier League club and it remains to be seen whether they are prepared to make a move for him. The report claims that he could cost around €2 million.

It would be a major bargain for Leeds United if they manage to get the deal done. There is no doubt that they have the financial resources and they should be able to convince the player to join the club as well. The opportunity to play in the Premier League will be exciting for Amoako.

He is a young player with a lot of potential and regular football in the Premier League could help him improve further. The 20-year-old could develop into an important player for Leeds United with the right guidance.

Leeds and West Ham target 19-G/A creator to boost attacking output

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Amoako would improve Leeds

The Premier League side is currently looking to secure safety in the top flight and they need to improve defensively next season.

Adding a quality defensive midfielder will help shield the defensive unit and allow the creative players to operate with more freedom. The 20-year-old could prove to be an excellent addition for the Whites.

It remains to be seen whether Leeds United follow up on their interest with an official offer at the end of the season. Multiple clubs are keeping tabs on his situation, and the Premier League side must look to move quickly in order to win the race for his signature.

Leeds eye bold double swoop as two Premier League stars consider exit

The post Leeds United plot smart summer raid for Europe’s next midfield gem appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing the Newcastle United defender Tino Livramento at the end of the season.

According to football transfers, Arsenal are looking to replace Ben White in the summer, and they have identified the Newcastle defender as a target.

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Arsenal in talks for Tino Livramento

They have reportedly held talks with the player’s representatives regarding a summer move, and it will be interesting to see if they come forward with an official offer to get the deal done.

Livramento is a key player for Newcastle United, and they will not want to lose the player easily. They have had a disappointing season, and they will look to bounce back strongly next year. Signing the right players could help them get back on track.

Meanwhile, Arsenal have had an outstanding season so far, and they are looking to win the Premier League title and the UEFA Champions League. Adding more quality to the team will help them sustain their current run of form and compete at the highest level.

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Livramento could be tempted

The opportunity to play for the London club could be exciting for the Newcastle defender as well. It would be a step up in his career, and he would get to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world.

It will be interesting to see if Arsenal can secure an agreement with Newcastle. The player has also been linked with clubs like Manchester City in recent months.

The 23-year-old is a reliable performer in the Premier League, and he has shown that he has the quality to play for bigger clubs and compete at a higher level. It remains to be seen where he ends up.

The post Talks held: Arsenal step up chase for 23-year-old Premier League talent appeared first on CaughtOffside.

If you've been looking forward to this summer's World Cup and thought to yourself, "You know, I'd really like to watch every match in a public enclosure," Fox Sports has just the job for you.

In a partnership with Indeed, Fox Sports — which has the English-language World Cup broadcast rights for the U.S. — announced on Tuesday that it would be hiring a "Chief World Cup Watcher" to be somewhat a part of its World Cup coverage.

Basically, the job requires the hire to watch all 104 matches in 4K on the Fox One streaming platform while hanging out in a "custom-built viewing space amidst thousands of daily visitors, tourists and commuters in the heart of Times Square."

This job will pay a salary of $50,000.

We've got your dream job--announcing @foxone#ChiefWorldCupWatcher hired through @indeed. Get paid $50,000 to watch every minute of all 104 matches. Go to https://t.co/TxS2OmNzumpic.twitter.com/NqGkRXFeg2

— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) May 5, 2026

It's very much a sponsored gimmick that calls for zero work-life balance. But hey, it's a unique idea, and someone will certainly be willing to give up an entire summer for $50,000.

The application steps were listed as:

To be considered for the role of FOX One Chief World Cup Watcher Hired Through Indeed fans should update their Indeed profile now through May 17 exclusively on Indeed.

The opening match of the World Cup is set to kick off on June 11 in Mexico City.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Fox Sports listing 'World Cup Watcher' job with $50K salary

An explanation for the premature withdrawal of Julián Alvarez from Atlético Madrid’s defeat at the hands of Arsenal has come to the fore online.

This comes amid confirmation that the Argentine was again struggling for fitness.

Frontman Alvarez emerged as a major doubt to play his part in Atlético’s Champions League semi-final return leg showdown with Arsenal at The Emirates over the last week.

The 26-year-old was struggling with a niggling ankle complaint, which proved enough to keep him out of his side’s weekend La Liga victory over Valencia.

In the end, Alvarez was cleared to feature from the off in north London, in a season-defining outing for he and his teammates.

It therefore came as a major surprise when, midway through the 2nd-half, the World Cup winner was hauled off by boss Diego Simeone.

As alluded to above, though, the reasoning for this call has since been revealed online.

As per a report from Marca:

‘After the hour mark, he could go no further. After an attempt to send in a cross that went straight into Raya’s hands, the Argentinian was the first to realize he was feeling the strain.’

Alvarez, after attempting to run the problem off, was from here forced to give in to his ankle pain, calling for an immediate substitution on a night to forget for all of a Rojiblancos persuasion.

Conor Laird – GSFN

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has stressed that there is “no chance” of him staying at the club beyond the end of the season, despite fans calling for him to carry on.

Revived

Enjoying a brilliant season, Casemiro is delivering a fitting swansong as his United career edges toward its end.

In January, he announced that he will depart the club at the end of the campaign, once his contract expires. United had the option to keep him for another 12 months but chose not to exercise it, presumably to remove his massive wages from the books.

Casemiro has stepped up to another level ever since Michael Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim in the dugout.

He has started every game under Carrick, regularly delivering decisive performances. He has been pivotal in United’s run to securing Champions League football.

The Brazilian has notched an impressive nine goals in 33 Premier League appearances. It is the most prolific season of his career. On multiple occasions now, especially when he has found the back of the net, United fans have been heard chanting “One more year!” “One more year!”

A model professional, Casemiro’s work ethic has always resonated with supporters and it’s no surprise that they have been calling for an extension of his stay.

However, United are not expected to perform a turnaround. Carrick is on record saying this, and Casemiro has now reaffirmed it, explaining that it’s because he wants to bow out while still at the peak of his powers.

Casemiro confirms stance

Speaking to ESPN, Casemiro explained, “I don’t think there’s a chance [that he stays], there’s no chance.”

“Mostly because of what I said, you know? Go out the big door, I think it was four beautiful, wonderful years and I am eternally grateful not only to the club, but to the fans.”

“But I think I have to leave in good terms, I have to go out on top. I will be an eternal United fan here in England and I just have to thank all the love from the fans.”

Carrick deserves the job

Casemiro threw his full support behind Carrick being handed the United hot seat on a permanent basis.

He told ESPN, “In my opinion, he completely deserves it [the Manchester United job], I think he’s a guy who has already demonstrated that he has very good qualities to be a Manchester United coach.”

“So it’s not up to me to choose, it’s up to the club. But if I could give my opinion, of course he deserves it, and he deserves the club’s total trust. Of course, the season is year-round, but since he arrived, he’s been doing an incredible job and I think that with more time he has everything to be a great manager of Manchester United.”

The five-time Champions League winner added, “He’s a coach who knows the club, he’s a coach who was an idol at the club, he’s a coach who played a lot, won titles here, knows what the club is like, he knows what Manchester United is. So, full credit to the coach and there wasn’t much time, that for me was one of the big surprises, because he entered the middle of a troubled season.”

“And the games, when he arrived, were not so much those games that we say to gain confidence, although in the Premier League there were not so many games like that, but those games, so there have already been difficult games.”

“And the guy arrived and managed to change the club and me in particular, even more so because he was a former player, a midfielder. I’m happy for the person he is, the guy is a sensational person, an incredible person, and he deserves everything that’s happening in his career.”

Titles

While there is much jubilation at United securing being back in the Champions League after a two-year absence, Casemiro believes the club should be aiming for a lot more.

“When it comes to United, I always say that you have to think about titles, you always have to think about winning, about winning titles.”

“Even more so, I’ve always liked to win titles, so I don’t think it’s an ideal season, but it’s a good season, especially because of the circumstance. But, I say again, you have to think about titles — United can’t be content with third place.”

“United must always be thinking about titles and thinking about winning at the top of the table. And that for me has to be United’s thinking, circumstances, third place, very good, playing Champions League next year is another European competition, but it has to be more — United must always be more.”

Casemiro and his teammates are next in action on Saturday when they go away to Sunderland.

Featured image Alex Livesey via Getty Images

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• Nathan Aké is set to join Bernardo Silva and John Stones in a high-profile summer exodus from Manchester City.
• The 31-year-old Dutch international has set his sights on the Italian top-flight, with Juventus, AC Milan, and Roma currently leading the chase.
• Despite strong interest from Eredivisie’s PSV Eindhoven, sources insist he has no intention of returning to the Netherlands at this stage of his career.

Nathan Ake is set to bring an end to his legendary stay at the Etihad Stadium, making it a minimum of three high-profile departures from the Manchester City squad.

The latest news arrives at a highly delicate time for Pep Guardiola’s squad as Manchester City remain in the midst of a relentless finish to the 2025/26 campaign, chasing down Arsenal in a thrilling title race while preparing for the FA Cup Final against Chelsea on May 16.

However, with Sporting Director Hugo Viana planning yet another major summer overhaul, the long-term makeup of the squad is shifting rapidly behind the scenes.

Nathan Aké, who joined City from Bournemouth for around £40 million in the summer of 2020, has enjoyed a trophy-laden six years at the Etihad Stadium, winning four Premier League titles and the historic 2023 Champions League.

Yet, the current season has seen his first-team opportunities dwindle significantly, and while national team coach Ronald Koeman demands regular club minutes ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup this summer, Aké has decided his future lies away from Manchester.

Serie A giants circle for Ake as PSV ruled out

Now, according to Voetbal International, Nathan Aké is set to leave Manchester City this summer, with the Netherlands international defender said to be attracting serious interest from top Serie A clubs.

Despite being linked to PSV in his home country, the report points to sources close to the player who are adamant that the Eindhoven club ‘stands no chance in the battle’ for the City man, who still wants to play in a top league.

Attracting concrete interest from Juventus and AS Roma, it is further explained that both clubs must first secure European football – in addition to AC Milan – if they are to successfully lure Nathan Ake to the Italian top-flight this summer.

Manchester City’s ongoing defensive rebuild

With Nathan Aké entering the final year of his contract – which runs until June 2027 – Manchester City are likely to be keen to sanction a sale this summer to avoid losing the versatile defender on a free transfer next year.

The Dutchman’s departure, alongside the confirmed exit of John Stones, leaves a significant void in Guardiola’s defence, placing further responsibility on the shoulders of January signing Marc Guéhi, Josko Gvardiol, and Abdukodir Khusanov in particular.

Transfer intermediaries are already offering Aké to various clubs, with Inter Milan also expected to be monitoring the situation, particularly after their success with Manuel Akanji – who joined the recently-crowned Serie A champions on a season-long loan last summer.

For now, Nathan Aké remains focused on helping Manchester City navigate their remaining Premier League fixtures, starting with the fallout from Monday’s dramatic 3-3 draw against Everton.

Match Report and Player Ratings: Everton 3-3 Manchester City (Premier League)

Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid have on Tuesday seen their Champions League hopes brought to an end in devastating fashion yet again.

And in the process, Barcelona star Raphinha has seen his post-quarter-final prediction proven correct.

Atlético marked their return to action a short time ago, making the trip to Premier League leaders Arsenal for a Champions League semi-final 2nd-leg showdown.

When all was said and done, the Rojiblancos were condemned to the wrong side of a 1-0 result, giving rise to a 2-1 aggregate defeat.

This means that Diego Simeone’s troops will finish the 2025/26 campaign without silverware.

Not only that, but it also means that the aforementioned Raphinha has been validated for his recent dig at Atlético.

After Barcelona were sent packing from Europe at the hands of Atléti last month, winger Raphinha was caught on camera assuring the home fans at the Metropolitano that:

“You’ll go home next round.”

And unfortunately for those of a Rojiblancos persuasion, this prediction has since proven to be spot on…

Conor Laird – GSFN

Rangers are bracing for life without James Tavernier, their long-serving captain, who confirmed his departure from Ibrox on 22 April after an incredible eleven years at the club. The 34-year-old will leave as a free agent at the end of the 2025/26 season, and according to Football Insider, a move to Saudi Arabia is now the most likely outcome this summer. Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown, speaking to Football Insider, believes Tavernier is heading for a major payday, suggesting the Saudi Pro League offers him the financial reward that his career honestly deserves.

Rangers set to lose Tavernier as Saudi Arabia emerges as the most likely destination

Brown made it clear that Premier League interest, including from Tottenham, isn’t really there at this point, stating that he would be shocked if any top English club chased a 35-year-old right-back regardless of his free-agent status. Clubs from Greece, including Panathinaikos, and Turkey have also tracked him closely, though Rafa Benitez’s uncertain position in Athens could complicate that route. Brown didn’t mince words. Tavernier’s age makes him unattractive to elite clubs, even on a free transfer, and the Middle East simply makes the most sense for everyone involved.

“James Tavernier has had a fantastic career,” Brown told Football Insider.

“He’s done a brilliant job for Rangers over a period of time, scoring and creating so many goals from right-back and always being a key part of that side.

“He’s very highly regarded in the game, but I would be very surprised if any Premier League club made a move for him, let alone a club like Tottenham.

“He’ll be 35 by the end of the year, and I can’t imagine many clubs are going to their sporting directors saying lets bring in this 35-year-old right-back.

“Being available for free makes it more of an option than it may have been otherwise, but regardless, I don’t see any top club looking to bring him in at this stage.

“I think at his age and after deciding to leave Rangers, Tavernier is going to be looking for a big payday in Saudi Arabia or somewhere like that.”

Does losing Tavernier leave Rangers dangerously exposed going into 2026/27?

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – APRIL 18: Marcus Tavernier of AFC Bournemouth celebrates his team’s second goal, scored by teammate Adrien Truffert during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Bournemouth at St James’ Park on April 18, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Rangers face a genuine problem heading into 2026/27 because replacing Tavernier is not simply a matter of finding another right-back. His 14 goals and six assists across 50 appearances this season show he was more of an attacking outlet than just a defender. The club have to figure out how much of Rangers’ attacking threat actually runs through him.

His weakness, getting caught out of position against pacey wide men, is well documented, and Celtic exploited it repeatedly in heavy Old Firm defeats. However, Rangers still built their attacking shape around his energy. Andrew Cavenagh and the recruitment team must act decisively because neither Dujon Sterling nor Max Aarons has really proven they can step into Tavernier’s shoes. Rangers cannot afford a slow start to their summer business.

Rangers supporters will always remember Tavernier as the man who captained their first title in a decade, leading the unbeaten 2020/21 Premiership campaign under Steven Gerrard. Whatever he chooses next, Saudi riches or European competition, his time at Ibrox is set in stone.

Arsenal 1-0 Atletico Madrid (2-1 on aggregate)

Arsenal will play the Champions League final on the 30th of May in Budapest against one of Bayern Munich or Paris Saint-Germain, after narrowly defeating Atletico Madrid in the semi-final. After a first-half goal from Arsenal gave Mikel Arteta’s side the lead, Atletico were unable to convert their meagre openings.

Diego Simeone had to be delighted with his side’s start, with Antoine Griezmann and Julian Alvarez combining to make life uncomfortable for the hosts. Gabriel Magalhaes had to prevent the latter getting off a clean shot, and Declan Rice was required to get a key block on Giuliano Simeone after an excellent ball from the by-line from Griezmann. To the surprise of the English media, Atletico began in hot pursuit of Arsenal, pressing hard and high up.

Yet that balance was redressed as the half went on, with Arsenal spending more time in the Atletico half. Like Los Rojiblancos, their dangerous attacks were largely limited to dangerous balls across the box without working Jan Oblak. Marcos Llorente and Matteo Ruggeri were the best examples of an Atletico that always got a foot in just in time, physical and chippy.

In the final minute of the first half though, Arsenal took the lead. A rare break free of the backline found Viktor Gyokeres down the right channel. Having forced him wide, Oblak retreated, but Gyokeres lofted a ball to the far post, which found Leandro Trossard. His shot was kept out by Oblak, but no more, with Bukayo Saka nipping ahead of Ruggeri and David Hancko to tap into the net.

Like the first half, the second period started off well for Atletico, with Los Colchoneros pushing high and moving into good positions. Only Griezmann managed to force David Raya into action though, and Giuliano Simeone missed the golden chance. After an errant backwards header, Giuliano rounded Raya, but could not wrap his foot around the ball to poke it into the net under pressure from Gabriel Magalhaes.

A string of changes followed, with Arteta and Simeone making eight changes between them in the first quarter of the second period. With Atletico desperate, now without Griezmann, Lookman and Alvarez, the game began to open up in the wrong way for Simeone’s side though. Gyokeres was picked out by Piero Hincapie with a golden chance, but couldn’t keep the bouncing ball down from the centre of the goal.

Moving into the final 20 minutes, the feeling was that Arsenal had the game where they wanted it. Atletico, incapable of founding the composure they needed to sustain attacks, were drawn into an exhausting game of football with little time on the ball, and less craft. The rare opening they did get was caused by Alexander Sorloth, but Gyokeres and Arsenal felt just as threatening on the break, with Marc Pubill on a mission to keep Atletico in the tie.

With five minutes to go, it was Sorloth that Alex Baena layed the ball back to, but he scuffed his shot. Aside from a penalty appeal that was waived away due to a supposed foul on Gabriel, that might have been the moment Atletico fans lamented most – they knew it would be the last chance. Los Rojiblancos finished the game with a single striker on the pitch, and no emergency measures next to Sorloth, unable to instigate an onslaught in search of the equaliser.

A Champions League journey that gave so much to Simeone and Atletico in terms of belief, identity and spirit comes to an end at the penultimate hurdle. Part of the electric feel that Los Rojiblancos had given to their fans was the feeling that when they got up ahead of steam, they could blow apart any opposition in their way. Not only did Arsenal find a way to stick a spanner in the Atletico motor, but Simeone’s side looked short of gas in the closing stages. The frustration will be accompanied by a sense of impotency, as they watched Arsenal celebrate a ebullient victory.

Bukayo Saka has give Arsenal a massive lead over Athletico Madrid, right at the end of the first half.

Viktor Gyokeres held the ball up brilliantly down the right-hand side before dinking a cross over to Leandro Trossard.

The Belgian appeared to hesitate on the ball, and for a moment, it looked like the opportunity might have vanished against a compact Atlético defence.

However, Trossard managed to fire a low drive toward the bottom corner. While Jan Oblak reacted with a sharp parry, Bukayo Saka was the most alert man in the box, to tap it in on the rebound

It is huge goal from Saka and a massive goal that has put Arsenal just 45 minutes away from a place in the Champions League final.

Watch the goal below:

Bukayo Saka steers Arsenal in-front vs Atletico! ?? pic.twitter.com/FLF6cx3wcf

— Prime Video Sport UK (@primevideosport) May 5, 2026

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Saka’s incredible form since returning from injury

Saka has made an instant impact since returning from an Achilles injury, proving once again why he is indispensable to Mikel Arteta’s tactical setup.

After a lengthy spell on the sidelines through April, he returned to the starting lineup this past weekend and looked like a man on a mission.

In a crucial 3-0 victory over Fulham that kept Arsenal six points (now five) clear at the top of the Premier League, Saka played only 45 minutes but still managed to record a goal and an assist.

Tonight, he has translated that domestic dominance to the European stage.

Bukayo Saka since returning from injury:

– Goal and assist in the title race
– Goal in a Champions League semi-final

Stepping up when it matters ? pic.twitter.com/GhrjzSli5u

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) May 5, 2026

While Arsenal faced heartbreak earlier this year, losing the League Cup final to Manchester City and suffering a shock FA Cup exit at the hands of Southampton. the potential for a historic Premier League and Champions League double remains very much alive.

With Saka firing on all cylinders, the Gunners look ready to exorcise their continental demons and finally claim the trophies that have eluded them for decades.

The post Watch: Bukayo with a massive goal right at the end of the first half to give Arsenal the lead vs Atletico Madrid appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United’s true feelings on the FA Youth Cup venue confirmation has been revealed.

FA Youth Cup details announced

Earlier on Wednesday, a report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Manchester City will host United in the FA Youth Cup final at the Joie Stadium.

United booked their spot in the final after overcoming Crystal Palace in the semi-final stage, courtesy of strikes from JJ Gabriel and Chido Obi. City were drawn as the home team for what will be the first Manchester derby to take place in an FA Youth Cup final since 1986.

The overwhelming expectation was that the showpiece event would be held at the Etihad, but an agreement on a date at City’s man grounds could not be found.

The game will therefore be staged at the Joie Stadium, which is reserved for the youth and women’s teams. It can accommodate 7,000 spectators.

The FA released a statement which reads, “The date, kick-off time, venue and broadcast details for the 2025-26 FA Youth Cup Final have now been confirmed.”

“Manchester City will play Manchester United on Thursday 14 May at the Joie Stadium. The Final will kick off at 19:00 BST and it will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1.”

The Daily Mail have now revealed how United feel about this development.

United’s true stance

According to the newspaper, Darren Fletcher’s side are “disappointed” at the decision to hold the match at City’s academy grounds.

The two clubs had been in talks for long to the point that they will not meet the FA’s deadline of playing the game by May 9.

The Mail further explain, “It is customary that the Youth Cup, the most prestigious tournament in academy football, hosts the final at a first-team stadium and City are the only club this century to use their academy ground for such an event.”

“There have been whispers for weeks that a match beyond the end of the Premier League season was discussed as a potential option, while a switch to play it at Old Trafford was proposed by the FA rather than United.”

“Sources close to United’s Under 18s team have expressed their disappointment to Confidential. They say it’s a shame that the first all-Manchester Youth Cup final since 1986 could not be played at the Etihad, but are keen not to fall out with their neighbours over it.”

It is said that City were not willing to give up home advantage. The Blues insist that the Etihad is not available for use due to ongoing construction on the North Stand ahead of a planned test event on May 20.

When United last appeared in an FA Youth Cup final, they drew over 67,000 fans to Old Trafford, with the squad featuring the likes of Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho.

Meanwhile, Michael Carrick and his players are next in action on Saturday when they go away to Sunderland.

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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Liverpool are in the market for a new forward.

Last summer around £200m went on new strikers - including a British record deal for Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike also came on board.

But it’s been a season to forget for Liverpool’s new strike force. Isak, 26, has spent much of the season injured while Ekitike is currently on the sidelines with a ruptured achilles.

Accordingly it’s been reported that sporting director Richard Hughes is ready to enter the market for a new No9 at the end of the season.

It would be unwise to rely just on Isak as a senior option next season - given the scale of the £125m man’s injury issues. That means acquiring a top-quality forward becomes a priority for the Premier League champions’ sporting director.

Eli Junior Kroupi available for £60m

And one name in the frame to arrive is Eli Junior Kroupi of Hughes’ former club Bournemouth.

The Frenchman has been the breakout star of his top-flight campaign - weighing in with 12 goals and putting himself in the shop window.

A report from Sports Boom now claims that the Cherries would be ready to discuss a deal at around £60m for the France under-21 forward.

Liverpool will be right there for his signature but face competition from Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea as well as Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid for Kroupi according to the report.

“Bournemouth is expected to open the door for the young striker in the €60 million to €70 million bracket,” the report reads. “The player’s long-term contract, running until 2029, significantly strengthens the club's hand at the negotiating table.

“The absence of any release clause allows Bournemouth to play the role of the "stubborn seller" to the fullest.

“[Liverpool] admire Kroupi’s tactical flexibility and his ability to play as a "False 9”, the report continues. “Liverpool seeks a name to add creativity to the attacking line in the post-Mohamed Salah era.”

Eli Junior Kroupi: Situation summary

Eli Junior Kroupi is a 19‑year‑old French forward who joined Bournemouth from Lorient in February 2025 for around €10–13m and has quickly become a key attacker in his first full Premier League season.

He is under contract until June 2030 and does not have a release clause, with Bournemouth exploring an improved “blockbuster” deal, which leaves them in a strong negotiating position.

Stylistically, Kroupi is a mobile, instinctive striker who stretches backlines, attacks space and finishes quickly, drawing comparisons with Kylian Mbappé and Sergio Agüero.

He thrives in Bournemouth’s high‑tempo, flexible attack, makes sharp runs, presses diligently and can play as a central nine or second striker, though he remains heavily right‑footed and is still developing his physical strength and final ball.

After a breakout campaign and rising valuations in the £50–80m bracket, he is attracting strong interest from Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City and PSG, with Bournemouth likely to sell only for a huge fee this summer or else keep him as a flagship asset for another season.

Everton, Brighton, and Sunderland are all keeping tabs on CA Osasuna defender Enzo Boyomo, according to Diario de Noticias de Navarra, via Sport Witness. The 24-year-old Cameroon international has a €25m release clause, and local sources claim at least some of these English sides are ready to pay up, though the report doesn’t specify which ones.

Everton eye a La Liga centre-back with a €25m price tag this summer

Ipswich Town and Italian club Como are also in contention; Sport Witness noted last month that Ipswich even sent a scout to watch Boyomo in person. That same scout was back in the stands against Barcelona last weekend. With Sunderland recently clinching promotion back to the Premier League this season, the race for his signature is getting crowded.

Osasuna, sensing the growing buzz, are already worried about losing him and have started looking for replacements. Any deal hinges on a club meeting his full release clause, a detail also confirmed by AS. Transfermarkt currently values Boyomo at €20m, and he’s under contract until 2029 with the agency All Iron Sports. So far this season, he has clocked 2,305 minutes over 27 games, including a start in the Copa del Rey.

Do Everton actually need Boyomo badly enough to spend €25m on him this summer?

PAMPLONA, SPAIN – MARCH 21: Enzo Boyomo of CA Osasuna duels for the ball with Viktor Tsyhankov of Girona FC during the LaLiga EA Sports match between CA Osasuna and Girona FC at Estadio El Sadar on March 21, 2026 in Pamplona, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Everton are set to kick off the 2026/27 season in their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, and there is massive pressure to put together a competitive squad from day one. As it stands, the club have some big question marks at centre-back heading into the summer. Boyomo reads the game well, holds his own in the air, and is a composed, left-footed defender, the exact type of player most modern backlines are looking for.

However, he is used to Osasuna’s structured La Liga system, and the Premier League’s pace and constant transitions would be a major jump in intensity. That makes this a bit of a gamble for Everton. Since the €25m price tag is non-negotiable, they would be placing a heavy bet on a player who hasn’t been tested in English football yet. Everton simply cannot afford another slow start.

Is Bukayo Saka overrated or underrated? After scoring the opener in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final against Atlético Madrid, the Arsenal winger still isn’t winning everyone over on social media. A roundup of tweets.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

Arsenal hardly looked truly dangerous in front of Atlético’s goal in the second leg of the semi-final. At least not until the final minute of the first half. 

Then they struck immediately. Gyökeres runs onto a clever through ball. Oblak first charges out, but then decides to retreat back to his goal. The Arsenal striker uses the space to send in a cross, which is flicked on by Pubill.

Leandro Trossard is in exactly the right place, dances past Giuliano Simeone, and gets his shot away through the Argentine’s legs. Oblak manages to save the close-range effort, but Bukayo Saka is there to bundle the ball over the line. Somehow, it could only have been the young Englishman to break the deadlock. 

In his 14 Champions League appearances at the Emirates, it was already his 14th goal involvement. One that makes the dream of reaching the final for the famous trophy feel very much alive. 

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.

Juventus are reportedly targeting Bernardo Silva for a potential move this summer, with the club identifying a need for greater creativity in their midfield. The Portuguese playmaker is expected to bring an end to his highly successful spell at Manchester City, where he has spent close to a decade and collected numerous trophies.

Silva departs as one of the most accomplished players in English football, having remained a consistent presence in Manchester City’s starting line-up. Despite the club’s efforts to convince him to extend his stay, he appears ready to seek a new challenge, creating an opportunity for interested teams.

Tactical need and player profile

Juventus believe that signing a player of Silva’s calibre would significantly enhance their squad. The Bianconeri are particularly focused on improving their ability to control matches in advanced areas, where creativity and composure are essential.

Luciano Spalletti has outlined the type of player his team is currently lacking, describing a profile that closely matches Silva’s strengths. His comments highlight the importance of technical ability and intelligence in breaking down compact defensive structures.

As reported by Calciomercato, the manager said, “We’re missing a playmaker who’s good at playing in tight spaces,” the coach told Sky, ” because in front of the opponent’s penalty area it becomes a quagmire. If you can’t get things right, you force some plays, increasing the nerves and the difficulties.”

Potential impact on Juventus

Silva’s ability to operate effectively in congested areas, combined with his vision and technical skill, makes him an ideal candidate to address Juventus’ current shortcomings. His experience at the highest level would also bring valuable leadership to the squad.

The prospect of signing him as a free agent further increases his appeal, offering Juventus a rare opportunity to acquire a world-class talent without a transfer fee.

If the move materialises, Silva could become a central figure in Spalletti’s plans, providing the creativity needed to elevate Juventus’ attacking play and strengthen their push for major honours.

Atletico Madrid have it all to do in the second half against Arsenal at the Emirates, as they will be forced to come from behind. It was the same in the first leg at the Metropolitano, but Diego Simeone will be required to pull a second change of tactics on Mikel Arteta.

The game was in a comfortable spot for Atletico Madrid, with Arsenal doing plenty of attacking, but struggling to break down the Spanish defence. Crucial interventions from Marcos Llorente and Matteo Ruggeri had prevented the Gunners from breaking through, but over the course of the half, Los Colchoneros could argue they had created just as much danger as the home side.

Bukayo Saka gives Arsenal the lead before half-time

That was until the last minute of the first half. Viktor Gyokeres escaped down the right channel, with Jan Oblak coming out to meet him. After forcing the Swedish forward wide, Oblak got back in goal in time to halt Leandro Trossard’s shot at the back post, after Gyokeres’ cross. He could only keep it out though, and remaining in the danger area, Bukayo Saka was quickest to react, tapping home from close range.

• FC Koln are considering a move to sign Man City’s Jahmai Simpson-Pusey on a permanent deal
• The 20-year-old defender joined the German club on loan in January for the rest of the campaign
• Man City are to retain a buy-back clause if Koln exercise the reported €8M purchase option.

Bundesliga side 1. FC Koln are considering offering Manchester City loanee Jahmai Simpson-Pusey a permanent contract this summer, as per recent reports.

The English defender is a product of Manchester City’s academy and began his youth career with the U9s in 2013. He captained City’s U18 side to FA Youth Cup glory in 2024 after a 4-0 victory over Leeds United in the final.

After progressing through the youth ranks, the 20-year-old made his senior debut with the English club in October 2024 as a second-half substitute in a 2-1 away defeat in the Carabao Cup against Tottenham.

Manchester City eye Pumas UNAM star after successful Talent ID visit to Mexico

The 20-year-old made six appearances across competitions for Pep Guardiola’s side in the 2024-25 season, followed by leading City’s EDS to the Premier League 2 title.

Subsequently, he was also named the Premier League 2 Player of the Season, becoming the first defender to ever receive the award.

How has Man City’s Simpson-Pusey fared at Koln?

In August 2025, Simpson-Pusey joined Celtic on a season-long loan deal. However, his loan stint in Scotland was far from ideal, with his first appearance being for their B team in October 2025, followed by his first-team debut in the top-flight in November 2025.

Those also marked to be the centre-back’s only two appearances overall at Celtic, being on the pitch for the first-team for only 64 minutes.

Simpson-Pusey’s tenure at Celtic Park was cut short, followed by his loan move to Koln in the January for the remainder of the ongoing season.

The Englishman has started in nine out of the 10 appearances he has made for the German side in the Bundesliga so far, missing four games due to a muscle injury, two for a red card suspension and another one while being on special leave.

Girona willing to sanction €20M sale for Manchester City transfer target

Following his difficult stint at Celtic, Simpson-Pusey’s loan move to Koln was a crucial one for the City graduate in order to reset his campaign and establish himself as a promising asset.

And it appears the defender has been able to turn things around for himself as the Billy Goats are now considering making a permanent move for him as the season nears its end, as reported by Kicker and relayed by Bulinews.

What are the terms of Simpson-Pusey’s loan deal at Koln?

Earlier in January, transfer insider Fabrizio Romano reported that Simpson-Pusey’s loan deal at Koln includes an option to buy, with Manchester City estimating him at £10 million – while the Bundesliga side are ready to offer around £5 million.

Now, with the loan contract’s expiry approaching, Koln are considering triggering the reported €8 million purchase option and if they decide to offer him a permanent deal, Manchester City will be retaining a buy-back clause. Reports have also suggested that Simpson-Pusey is open to a permanent transfer to the German side.

While any official development with respect to this potential move is yet to be announced, Koln’s decision about the youngster is also reportedly dependent on whether the club are able to earn a significant fee from the sale of 19-year-old winger Said El Mala, who has been linked with a move to England this summer.

With his contract at the Etihad Stadium valid until the summer of 2027, it remains to be seen what’s next for Simpson-Pusey ahead of the transfer window.

Midfielder Indy, 16, lives in Denmark, her father’s home country, but chose to represent Brazil, her mother’s country, on the field. In an interview with CBF TV, the player spoke about her dual nationality and how her interest in Brazilian football began.

“My mother is Brazilian and my father is Danish. I always wanted to know what football is like in Brazil. I always knew Brazilian football was really cool, and I kept wanting to watch more and more,” she said.

"I feel very happy to represent my country. I always wanted to play for Brazil, and my parents are happy too. They have always supported me and cheered a lot for me," she added.

Indy started in the match against Peru in the South American group stageCredits: Staff Images/CBF

Indy was born in South Africa and has lived in Denmark her whole life. After choosing to represent the Brazilian National Team, the player had to adapt to some factors, such as the Portuguese language, for example.

She easily understands the coaching staff and her teammates and also expresses herself well in Portuguese, but in some cases, such as personal notes about the style of play and what needs to be done in the match, Indy prefers to use Danish.

Currently, the midfielder plays for FC Nordsjælland in Denmark. Still in her interview with CBF TV, she explained how her interest in football began.

“I started playing football when I was eight years old. A friend from school took me to a practice session, and I really liked it.”

Indy has dual nationality: her father is Danish and her mother is BrazilianCredits: Staff Images/CBF

Finally, Indy also looked ahead to the match against Chile, valid for the semifinals of the South American U-17 Women’s Championship.

“We have prepared a lot, and I hope we can qualify. I expect a good game, but a difficult one," she concluded.

Brazil and Chile will face each other on Wednesday (6) at 8 p.m. Brasília time, at Defensores del Chaco Stadium in Asunción, Paraguay. The match will be broadcast live on SporTV.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Mohamed Salah has named Gini Wijnaldum, James Milner, and Jordan Henderson as three players who do not get the credit they deserve for their pivotal roles in Liverpool’s trophy-laden success in recent years.

While the “Egyptian King” has been the headline stealer for Liverpool over the years, Salah was quick to point out that the foundation of the club’s Premier League and Champions League triumphs was built on the backs of these selfless engine-room operators.

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Reflecting on the era under Jürgen Klopp, the departing Salah emphasised that individual awards often overlook the tactical discipline and leadership provided by the veteran trio.

Mohamed Salah names trio as unsung heroes for Liverpool

During a recent interview with Steven Gerrard on TNT Sport, Salah named Jordan Henderson, Gini Wijnaldum and James Milner as three teammates who deserve more recognition for their role in Liverpool’s success.

Salah said: “I think people don’t know how good Alexander-Arnold is, but I think he gets a lot of credit.

“But I would say Gini Wijnaldum and Millie [Milner] and Hendo [Henderson]. These guys just, without them, we wouldn’t have won anything.”

Wijnaldum’s role in Liverpool’s success

Gini Wijnaldum was a key part of Klopp’s midfield, known for his ability to retain possession under extreme pressure and his tactical flexibility.

His most iconic contribution, two goals in the historic 4-0 comeback against Barcelona, which remains one of the best European nights at Anfield.

Jordan Henderson’s role in Liverpool’s success

As the captain who hoisted every major trophy, Jordan Henderson’s leadership was the heartbeat of the squad.

He captained Liverpool through their most successful era in recent history. Salah has even called for fans to give him a proper sending off that he deserved but couldn’t receive due to his sudden exit last summer.

In the same interview he said:

“I think last game of the season against Brentford, people in the city knows how much it meant to Hendo also, being captain of the club, being here for 12 years – more than me, more than Virg, more than Robbo, more than anyone.

“He didn’t get the send-off that he deserved because he left suddenly. I don’t know how the club is going to manage it.

“I have no plans, and I don’t know how the supporters will also manage it, but I really wish they do something special for him, because he’s been one of the best players in this club.”

James Milner’s role in Liverpool’s success

James Milner, often referred to as the ultimate professional, was the glue that held the dressing room together.

He was one of Klopp’s favourite players, in fact, he is every manager’s dream player.

Whether filling in at left-back or right-back or dominating the midfield, Milner provided a level of experience and fitness that was indispensable.

These three players represent the selfless spirit that defined Liverpool’s return to the pinnacle of world football.

The post Mo Salah names three players without whom Liverpool “would not have won anything” appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea are interested in signing the Ecuador defender Joel Ordonez at the end of the season.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, they will also face competition from Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

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Chelsea eye Joel Ordonez swoop

Chelsea have been tracking the 22-year-old defender since 2022, and it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done this summer. They need more quality in the defensive unit. They have looked quite poor at the back this season, and they need to improve in that area if they want to compete with top clubs next season.

The 22-year-old central defender could be the ideal acquisition for them. He has shown his quality in Belgium with Club Brugge, and this is the right time for him to take on a new challenge. Chelsea move would be a huge opportunity for him, and Ordonez is likely to be tempted.

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Liverpool and Man United also keen on Ordonez

Meanwhile, Liverpool need an alternative to Ibrahima Konate, who will be out of contract in the summer. It will be interesting to see if they can get a deal done for the 22-year-old South American defender.

Manchester United and Tottenham also need more quality in the defensive unit. Both clubs have looked vulnerable at the back this season. Manchester United need a long-term replacement for Harry Maguire, and Tottenham could lose Cristian Romero in the summer. It remains to be seen which of the Premier League clubs can get the deal done.

The Belgian club could demand around £35 million for the South American defender, and the Premier League club certainly has the financial muscle to afford him.

The post Chelsea pushing to sign £35m defensive star on Liverpool & Man United wishlist appeared first on CaughtOffside.

A supercomputer has predicted how the fight for survival will play out in what has been a nightmare season for Tottenham.

After a campaign defined by managerial upheaval and a staggering lack of form, the data suggests that Spurs fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief.

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Tottenham predicted to escape relegation

According to the latest simulation from FindSisterSites (via The Sun), Tottenham are tipped to avoid a historic relegation to the Championship by just three points.

The prediction comes following a tumultuous period where the club fell into the bottom three under former boss Igor Tudor, before turning to a familiar face in the Premier League to navigate the crisis.

While the supercomputer predicts Arsenal to clinch the title on goal difference, the drama at the bottom of the table is equally intense.

Tottenham’s predicted survival comes at the direct expense of their London rivals, West Ham.

The model expects the Hammers to join Burnley and Wolves in the second tier next season, unable to keep pace with a rejuvenated Spurs side in the final weeks.

For Tottenham, finishing 17th for second season in a row is disastrous, but in a season where they went months without a league win, survival is the only metric that matters.

Tottenham look completely different under Roberto De Zerbi

The catalyst for this predicted escape has been the arrival of Roberto De Zerbi. Since taking over, he has made an instant impact, injecting strong mentality and fighting spirit in a depleted Spurs side.

Under him, Tottenham finally ended their winless run in 2026 with back to back wins over Wolves and Aston Villa and the supercomputer expects that momentum to carry them through a grueling final run-in.

The Italian has already made fans excited on what’s to come under him and if they survive relegation, Spurs can be a team to watch for next season.

The post Supercomputer makes bold Tottenham Premier League prediction as season nears its end appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool and Arsenal are interested in signing the Bournemouth attacker Eli Junior Kroupi at the end of the season.

The 19-year-old has 12 goals in 30 league matches for the Cherries, and top clubs are interested in securing his signature. According to a report from INews, Liverpool are looking to reshape their attacking unit after the departure of Mohamed Salah, and they are firm admirers of the French attacker.

They believe he could become a key player for the club. However, the Cherries are unwilling to sanction his departure. The player is valued at in excess of £100 million, and they are hoping to offer him a new contract after his impressive debut campaign.

It will be interesting to see if Liverpool decides to come forward with an offer for him at the end of the season.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are keeping tabs on his situation as well. Even though Viktor Gyokeres has scored 20 goals in all competitions, this season, he has not been prolific enough in the Premier League.

Arsenal need more quality in the final third, and the French attacker would be ideal for them.

The 19-year-old has the potential to develop into a star in the Premier League, and joining clubs like Arsenal or Liverpool could be attractive for him. It would be a huge step up for him, and he would get to compete at the highest level with them.

However, it is unlikely that any club would be willing to pay in excess of £100 million for him this summer. Therefore, any move might have to wait for the future.

The post Liverpool eye explosive 19-year-old Arsenal target to kickstart post-Salah era appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are interested in signing the West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes. 

The 21-year-old has done quite well for the London club this season, and he has been one of their brightest performers despite a disappointing season. Naturally, top clubs are interested in him. According to Ben Jacobs, Manchester United are looking to sign him in the summer, and it will be interesting to see how the situation develops.

West Ham is fighting for survival in the Premier League, and they will struggle to keep their best players if they go down. Fernandes will want to compete at a high level, and the move to Manchester United would be ideal for him.

The hard-working central midfielder will add defensive cover, control and composure in the middle of the park. It could be the ideal next step in his development. Manchester United will be able to provide him with Champions League football and the opportunity to fight for trophies.

In theory, he should be the ideal partner for Kobbie Mainoo. He has been described as “an ultimate Premier League midfielder”.

Manchester United will need to invest in a reliable defensive midfielder as well. Adding more quality in the middle of the park should be a top priority for them as they head into the summer transfer window. They have shown great improvement in recent months, but they need quality additions in order to close the gap with Arsenal and Manchester City.

Convincing Fernandes to join the club will not be difficult for them. The opportunity to play for them will be exciting for the young midfielder. However, they will need to secure an agreement with West Ham United. They could demand a premium for the talented young midfielder.

The post Man United ready to pounce on rivals to sign “ultimate Premier League midfielder” appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham Hotspur are hoping to agree on a new deal with Luka Vuskovic at the end of the season.

The Croatian has been on loan at Hamburg, and he has been outstanding for the German club since joining.

He has been linked with multiple clubs in recent weeks, but Tottenham are determined to keep him at the club for the long term. According to a report from the Sun, they are prepared to offer him a new deal. The report further claims that Johan Lange personally flew to Hamburg to discuss a new deal with the player.

He has a contract with Tottenham until 2030, but he joined on relatively low wages. Tottenham is prepared to offer him a pay rise, given his performances in Germany this season. They expect him to be a key player for the club in the coming seasons.

Vuskovic has been very reliable defensively and has scored 5 goals as well. He has proven himself to be a revelation in German football, and there is no doubt he has the quality to succeed in England as well. He is regarded as one of the finest young defensive talents in the world right now, and Tottenham must do everything in its power to keep him at the club for as long as possible.

Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven have been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season. They will need someone to step up and fill the void. The creation defender could be ideal. He is a young player with a lot of potential, and he will only improve with coaching and experience. He has all the attributes to develop into a future star.

The post Spurs chief Johan Lange flies out for talks with 19-year-old sensation as top clubs circle appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Just one point. That is all FC Barcelona need to confirm their coronation as the champions of La Liga for the second consecutive season.

And, Hansi Flick & co. have the golden opportunity to do so against none other than their bitter rivals, Real Madrid, in the upcoming El Clasico on 10 May at the Spotify Camp Nou.

Frenkie de Jong or Gavi in midfield?

Leading up to the match on Sunday, Barcelona manager Flick is staring at a major selection in midfield, reports SPORT.

Indeed, the manager has a decision to make about who partners with Pedri in the middle of the park – Frenkie de Jong or Gavi.

De Jong has been a key figure in the starting line-up since Flick’s arrival at Barcelona. He has earned that role through his performances, not only because of his technical quality but also due to an increase in intensity that had sometimes been questioned in the past.

However, over the past two months, his presence has declined significantly. The main reason for this absence is the muscle injury he suffered in training on 26 February, which led to him missing a series of important games.

Gavi or De Jong in midfield for El Clasico? (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

After missing nine matches, his return has been handled in an extremely cautious manner by Flick & co. In the last five games, he has played only 95 minutes, a limited involvement for a player of his influence.

Gavi has stepped up

Barcelona have not felt De Jong’s absence as strongly as expected, largely because it has coincided with the strong return of Gavi. In recent matches, the La Masia graduate has become indispensable for Flick.

He has taken his opportunity to show that his physical issues are behind him and that he is ready for major challenges, starting in five consecutive matches, all of which ended in victories.

As a result, De Jong’s place in the starting line-up against Real Madrid, which would normally be certain, is far from guaranteed for the upcoming match at Spotify Camp Nou.

The Dutch midfielder is fit to start, and the final decision rests with the coach, but at present Gavi appears to be the more likely option.

It’s the night of nights for Arsenal and Atletico Madrid: a place in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League final in Budapest is at stake.

Watch all Serie BKT matches live on OneFootball for just €9.99 a month. Click here to buy the LaB Channel Monthly Pass with no automatic renewal.  

It starts again from the 1-1 draw at the Metropolitano, with the Gunners — also thanks to Manchester City’s slip-up in the Premier League yesterday — seemingly having rediscovered the confidence that had started to waver in recent days.

In the round robin, this clash, played in London, ended 4-0, but beware of underestimating Cholo Simeone’s men: this is a different stage, and what’s at stake is completely different, and we know how formidable the Colchoneros are at annihilating even the strongest opponents. Who will fly into the final? Tell us in the comments!

🔴 Article constantly updated: for live text commentary, click on the match card above.

🔥 RED-HOT atmosphere outside the Emirates Stadium

A red-hot atmosphere at the Emirates for the clash between Arsenal and Atletico Madrid. According to Sky Sports, Atletico’s bus arrived first, with a few objects thrown but no major problems. Then came Arsenal’s arrival, surrounded by red smoke and deafening chants: visibility was almost zero and the atmosphere electric.

✅ The OFFICIAL line-ups

ARSENAL (4-2-3-1): Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Lewis-Skelly; Saka, Eze, Trossard, Gyökeres.

Unavailable: Timber, Merino.

ATLETICO MADRID (4-4-2): Oblak; Pubill, Le Normand, Hancko, Ruggeri; Simeone, Llorente, Koke, Lookman; Alvarez, Griezmann.

Unavailable: Nico Gonzalez, Barrios.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.

Mikel Arteta's Arsenal are just 90 minutes away from a second-ever appearance in a Champions League final, and one of the key figures tonight is none other than Myles Lewis-Skelly.

A Gunner through and through who has brilliantly risen through the club's ranks before breaking into the senior side last season, the 19-year-old England international has been entrusted by his manager in what is one of the biggest nights in the club's history.

Despite questions being raised on whether his future remained in north London amid murmurings that he could be viewed as a sellable asset this summer, his top-class performance in midfield at the weekend against Fulham was enough to see him retain his place in the XI this evening.

With his inclusion from the first whistle tonight, MLS has closed ranks with two iconic football names as teenagers to start in a Champions League semi-final - Spain legend Iker Casillas and Nigerian icon, as well as former Gunner, Nwankwo Kanu.

With a possible place in Thomas Tuchel's England side this summer at the 2026 World Cup also on the line, another brilliant showing tonight at the Emirates could propel Lewis-Skelly to dizzying heights, perhaps he couldn't dream of.

In a recent report, Fichajes stated that Liverpool are ready to launch a move for Tottenham Hotspur star Micky van de Ven. It has been mentioned that the Reds are hoping to make a €95m offer to sign the Dutch defender this summer.

Van de Ven’s Impressive Form In English Football

Van de Ven has enjoyed a good run of form at the North London club after he produced a string of impressive displays for them on the defensive end of the field. The 25-year-old has scored seven goals and grabbed one assist in 42 matches for Tottenham this season in all competitions.

The Dutch talent is still among the best centre-backs in the Premier League when he is playing with confidence on the field. However, it is no wonder that Liverpool are showing interest in him in this upcoming transfer window.

His current contract at the North London club will run out in the summer of 2029, which could make it tough for the Reds to sign him on the cheap later this year.

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – MAY 03: Micky van de Ven of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur at Villa Park on May 03, 2026 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Should Liverpool Go For Van De Ven?

Van de Ven is a solid tackler of the ball and can scan the danger well to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind clearing his lines when the opposition are on the offensive and is proficient at playing his way out from the back.

Standing at 1.93m, the Dutch talent can use his strong frame to win his fair share of aerial duels. Van de Ven has also got the pace to get back and make some important recovery runs inside his half. He has got a wealth of experience in the Premier League and won’t take much time to settle into life at the Merseyside club.

We can expect Van de Ven to add more bite and steel to Liverpool‘s defence. He has what it takes to fight for a regular first-team spot at the Premier League club.

At 25, Van de Ven has his best years ahead of him, which makes him a worthy target for the Reds to pursue later this year. All in all, Liverpool would be wise to go for a player of his quality and skill set in this summer transfer period.

Liverpool Transfer News: Reds Eye £52m Porto Winger

Liverpool’s search for attacking solutions may be turning towards Portugal, with Record reporting that the Reds are monitoring FC Porto winger Oskar Pietuszewski ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 17-year-old, who joined Porto from Jagiellonia Białystok in January, has made a swift impression in Portugal and is already attracting attention from several major European clubs. Record credit Liverpool with interest, while Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea are also said to be watching his development.

Pietuszewski currently has a release clause worth around £52m, though Porto are reportedly keen to offer fresh terms and increase that figure. For a club with Porto’s record of developing and selling elite attacking talent, that is hardly surprising.

Diaz Departure Still Haunts Liverpool

The Luis Díaz angle makes this story particularly relevant for Liverpool. Diaz left Anfield for Bayern Munich last summer, and rather than signing a direct replacement, Liverpool placed their faith in Cody Gakpo to help carry the load from the left side of the attack.

That decision has not aged well.

Gakpo has struggled badly this season, both in terms of output and influence. At his best, the Dutchman offers intelligent movement, clean ball striking and positional flexibility. This campaign, however, he has too often looked short of rhythm, sharpness and authority in the final third.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s failure to replace Diaz now feels like one of the defining recruitment calls of last summer. Diaz gave the side vertical thrust, intensity, unpredictability and a capacity to beat defenders in moments when structure alone was not enough. Without him, Liverpool’s left flank has lost some of its menace.

Pietuszewski Profile Fits Liverpool’s Need

Pietuszewski has reportedly produced three goals and four assists in 14 Portuguese top flight appearances, impressive numbers for a player still only 17.

Operating mainly from the left, he is viewed as a direct, explosive winger with confidence in one against one situations. Those qualities are precisely what Liverpool have lacked since Díaz’s departure.

This is not to say Pietuszewski would arrive as an instant senior solution. At his age, any move would have to be framed as both a present squad option and a long term investment. Yet Liverpool’s issue is clear. They need more speed, more incision and more natural width in attack.

Photo: IMAGO

Summer Rebuild Requires Conviction

Arne Slot won the Premier League title in his debut season, but Liverpool’s title defence has been disappointing. Despite spending £450m last summer, the Reds sit 4th, and another busy window is expected.

That creates a delicate recruitment picture. Liverpool cannot afford another summer where a major attacking departure is not properly addressed. The Diaz exit left a gap, and trusting internal solutions has backfired.

Pietuszewski may be young, expensive and far from proven in England, but the logic behind the interest is easy to understand. Liverpool need to restore danger to their wide areas, and Record’s report suggests they are already assessing one of Europe’s more exciting emerging options.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report lands with a mixture of interest and frustration. Oskar Pietuszewski sounds exactly like the type of player Liverpool should be tracking, young, explosive, technically sharp and already producing in senior football. But fans have heard enough about long term planning. What they need now is evidence that the club have learned from last summer’s mistake.

Luis Diaz leaving for Bayern Munich was a major moment. Liverpool chose not to replace him properly, trusted Cody Gakpo to step up, and that gamble has failed. Gakpo has looked miles off the required level this season, and the left side of Liverpool’s attack has lacked speed, aggression and spark.

That is why this story matters. Pietuszewski might be an outstanding talent, but supporters will question whether a 17-year-old with a £52m clause is the answer to a problem that already needed fixing a year ago.

Liverpool need certainty this summer, not only potential. Slot’s title win bought him time, but this season has exposed serious flaws in the squad build. If Pietuszewski is part of a wider attacking rebuild, fine. If he is the headline answer, it feels risky.

Interesting player, logical profile, but Liverpool cannot afford another half measure.

Chelsea are not expected to proceed with a move to bring Xavi Hernandez into the Stamford Bridge dugout, according to Ben Jacobs.

The Blues had contacted his camp to discuss the Spaniard replacing Liam Rosenior.

However, even though he is open to a switch to England, the West Londoners will not hire him.

Chelsea are searching for a fourth permanent head coach in four years under BlueCo, after inexplicably dismissing Enzo Maresca, who had salvaged a badly assembled squad.

A little call for backing in the transfer market and a downturn in form prompted the Club World Cup champions to part ways with Maresca and hire Rosenior.

Unfortunately, the English tactician was a disaster, leaving after 106 days with Chelsea now in danger of missing out on Champions League football for the third time in four years.

The club’s hierarchy desperately needs to get its next hiring decision right, or risk plunging this team into even more trouble than it already is.

Xavi is what the squad is crying out for. He is a fine coach who did a stellar job with Barcelona, guiding them to the league title while playing exciting football.

The 46-year-old was renowned for giving opportunities to young starlets such as Pau Cubarsi, Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Gavi, and others.

He has top experience leading the Catalan outfit out in Europe as a player and as a manager. He would be an excellent addition.

Xavi would be a much better choice for the current Chelsea squad than other names like Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva.

He has managed at a much higher level than the Premier League duo and is the kind of big-name winner these players need.

Besides Xabi Alonso, he is the only other name on the Chelsea shortlist that makes sense.

This managerial search remains open with the club hierarchy facing a make-or-break situation.

Things do not seem to be okay at all between Real Madrid and their ace goalscorer Kylian Mbappe.

Since his ill-advised trip to Italy this past week, there has been tension developing between the French superstar and the club, while reports of unrest in the dressing room have also taken centre-stage.

Some players at the Spanish capital outfit are not entirely happy with the 27-year-old forward, his attitude and the privileges he has seemingly been granted at the club.

Meanwhile, Mbappe himself has not taken too well with the club’s decision to sack Xabi Alonso midway through the season, and the club’s mishandling of his knee injury is also seen as a concern in his camp.

Not the best moment, but no exit for Mbappe

Providing the lowdown on the situation, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that Real Madrid and Mbappe are not at all considering the possibility of parting ways in the summer.

Not going anywhere. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

While it is true that, at the moment, things are not at their best between the two parties, there is no doubt that the 27-year-old superstar will stay at the club and remain a part of the project next season.

The situation is described as a ‘difficult moment’, exacerbated by the fact that Real Madrid, as a club, are going through a precarious situation.

The disappointing season, the clashes inside the locker room, and the search for Alvaro Arbeloa’s replacement, have all contributed to the situation.

Mbappe’s trip to Italy, while Real Madrid are going through difficult period, was not welcomed.

However, the relationship between the player and the club is not broken and he will continue to remain an integral part of the project next season, with the Merengues set to restart from scratch after an underwhelming campaign.

A supercomputer has predicted how the Premier League finale will play out, forecasting one of the most dramatic conclusions in the history of English football.

With only weeks remaining in the 2025/26 campaign, the data suggests the title race will be decided not by points, but by the thinnest of margins.

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The latest simulation from FindSisterSites (via The Sun) has processed thousands of variables to map out the final standings, and the results point toward a photo finish between the two heavyweights of the modern era: Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal and Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.

Arsenal predicted to win the Premier League by just one goal

In a scenario that would mirror the legendary 1989 finale, the Gunners are tipped to clinch their second title in three years by a single goal.

According to the supercomputer, both Arsenal and Manchester City are expected to finish the season level on 83 points.

However, the North London side is projected to edge out the Cityzens with a goal difference of +45, compared to City’s +44.

For this nerve-wracking outcome to manifest, the model predicts Arsenal will win two and draw one of their final three fixtures.

Meanwhile, Manchester City are expected to take maximum points from their remaining four matches, including their crucial game in hand.

Such a result would represent the closest title race in Premier League history, eclipsing the famous “Agueroooo” moment of 2012.

Top 5 set with Liverpool and Aston Villa expected to grab final spots

While the title fight takes center stage, the race for elite European football is also reaching its conclusion.

Despite a season of significant ups and downs, Manchester United are backed to secure third place, continuing their impressive form under the Michael Carrick.

The supercomputer expects Liverpool and Aston Villa to round out the top five, claiming the final Champions League spots.

Arne Slot’s side is predicted to do just enough to claim the fourth spot while Unai Emery’s Villa, despite their dip in form are expected secure back-to-back seasons in Europe’s premier competition.

If these predictions hold true, the final day of the season will be less about the points on the board and more about every shot, save, and goal scored across the country.

The post Man City or Arsenal? Crazy supercomputer prediction names Premier League winners in dramatic twist appeared first on CaughtOffside.

According to Dutch media, Ajax have made an audacious enquiry for under-fire Liverpool manager Arne Slot as the Amsterdam giants continue their search for a permanent head coach.

The startling revelation comes from Mike Verweij of De Telegraaf, who revealed that the Eredivisie club reached out to the 47-year-old tactician despite his current role at Anfield.

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However, the approach was reportedly met with a swift and decisive refusal from the Liverpool boss.

Arne Slot turns down enquiry from Ajax

Speaking on the Kick-off podcast, Verweij detailed the exchange, noting that Slot remains committed to his long-term project on Merseyside.

“I was told again that they also informed Arne Slot,” Verweij said (quotes via Soccer News).

“Slot is still very firmly in the saddle; he will continue at Liverpool. I also understood that Arne Slot is not very keen to go to Ajax at this time in his career.”

Liverpool insist to continue with Arne Slot next season despite horrible season

The enquiry from Ajax highlights a paradoxical situation at Anfield.

Liverpool have endured a torrid 2025/26 campaign, recently suffering a 3-2 defeat to Manchester United, a result that marked their 11th league loss of the season and left them 18 points adrift of leaders Arsenal.

Despite breaking a 113-year-old record for home-and-away losses to both Manchester clubs in a single season, the Liverpool hierarchy reportedly remains behind their manager.

Unlike the chaotic managerial revolving door at Ajax, who are searching for their fourth permanent manager in three seasons, FSG appear determined to allow Slot the time to fix the current situation.

While he has lost the support of the fans, winning the Premier League title just 12 months ago seems to have bought him the time to oversee a rebuild next season.

For now, the Dutch giants will have to look elsewhere, with Girona’s Míchel now emerging as the favorite to take the hot seat at the Johan Cruyff Arena.

The post Report: Euro giants make surprise enquiry for Liverpool manager Arne Slot appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool are interested in signing the Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven. 

The 25-year-old defender has been outstanding for Tottenham since joining the club from Wolfsburg, and he has attracted the attention of top clubs recently. Liverpool would be willing to spend around €95 million (£82m) to sign the player in the summer, according to reports from FussballDaten.

Tottenham is fighting for survival in the Premier League, and it will be interesting to see if they can stay up. Even if they do, the top players could look to move on in the summer. They will look to compete at the highest level and fight for trophies. Liverpool is certainly better placed than Tottenham to fight for League titles or the UEFA Champions League.

The Netherlands International could be attracted to the idea of joining the Premier League champions. Liverpool has a strong Dutch contingent, and convincing Van de Ven to join will not be difficult for them.

Meanwhile, the Reds have looked poor at the back this season, and they need to improve defensively. Signing the Tottenham star would be ideal for Liverpool. He could replace Ibrahima Konaté at the heart of the Liverpool defence. The French International will be out of contract soon, and he has not signed an extension with the club.

Van de Ven is not just a quality defender; he is quite accomplished on the ball, and his recovery pace could add a new dimension to the Liverpool defence. He is a proven performer in the Premier League and at the peak of his career. This could be the right time for the Premier League site to secure his signature.

Van de Ven has been hailed as a “Rolls-Royce“ player.

The post Liverpool plot blockbuster £82m move for “Rolls-Royce” Premier League speedster appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are interested in signing Kim Min-jae from Bayern Munich. 

The 29-year-old central defender could be sold in the summer, and the two Premier League clubs are among the most interested. According to a report from FussballDaten, they have already expressed interest in signing the South Korean International as well. He could cost around €35-40 million during the summer transfer window.

The defender has struggled for regular opportunities at the German club, and it would be ideal for him to move on. Spurs or Newcastle might be able to provide him with regular opportunities next season. However, he earns around €16 million (£265k-a-week) at the German club, and he would have to take a significant pay cut to seal the move.

Tottenham need more in the defensive unit, especially with players like Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven expected to leave. They need to tighten up at the back, and the 29-year-old could prove to be a useful acquisition for them. He has the experience and the quality to succeed in the Premier League.

On the other hand, Newcastle need more depth in the defensive unit as well. They are looking to build a formidable team, and the 29-year-old will help them tighten up at the back. They have looked vulnerable defensively this season.

Tottenham is fighting for survival in the Premier League, while Newcastle is in the midtable. It will be interesting to see where the South Korean ends up.

The defender has a contract with Bayern Munich until 2028, and they will be hoping to get rid of him this summer to recoup as much as possible. His value is likely to plummet next season.

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Curtis Jones Transfer Latest: Newcastle and Inter Milan Circle Liverpool Midfielder

Curtis Jones Faces Defining Liverpool Summer

Curtis Jones has always carried something more than talent at Liverpool. He carries place, accent, memory and meaning. He is the boy from the city who grew into the shirt, a midfielder shaped by academy pitches, Anfield expectation and the heavy privilege of representing your own.

According to TeamTalk, Newcastle United have now entered the race for Jones, while Inter Milan are emerging as a particularly attractive option should the Liverpool midfielder leave Anfield this summer. That alone gives this story significance. This is not simply squad housekeeping. This is about Liverpool deciding how much room remains for one of their own in Arne Slot’s evolving midfield.

Jones, still only 23, finds himself in a delicate footballing corridor. He is neither a fading veteran nor an untested prospect. He is experienced enough to demand meaningful minutes, young enough to keep improving, and versatile enough to interest clubs with serious ambition.

Photo IMAGO

Inter Milan Interest Adds European Intrigue

TeamTalk report that Inter Milan first explored a deal in January, only for Liverpool to refuse a mid-season departure. That was understandable. Clubs with title ambitions rarely weaken themselves in winter. Summer, though, changes the temperature of every conversation.

Inter’s interest feels credible in footballing terms. Serie A would test Jones differently. It would sharpen his tactical discipline, reward his ability to retain possession under pressure and place him in a league where midfielders are often asked to think before they run. For Jones, Italy may offer reinvention rather than retreat.

Liverpool must be careful. Letting homegrown talent leave can look clinical on a spreadsheet and painful from the stands. Supporters understand evolution, but they also value identity. Jones is one of the few players who visibly links the current squad to the city beyond matchday symbolism.

Newcastle and Villa Monitor Midfield Opportunity

Newcastle’s interest adds a Premier League edge. TeamTalk claim the Magpies are assessing midfield reinforcements, with Sandro Tonali expected to depart this summer. Aston Villa have also made enquiries about Jones’ availability, which suggests the market sees something Liverpool may be tempted to undervalue.

For Newcastle, Jones would bring press resistance, ball carrying and an ability to operate between lines. For Villa, he would offer control and tactical intelligence. For Liverpool, he represents both depth and sentiment, which is where the decision becomes harder.

Liverpool are reportedly targeting Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace and Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid. Both names point towards a midfield refresh built on athleticism, technical quality and long term planning. Yet recruitment should not automatically mean removal. Jones has already shown he can contribute at elite level.

Liverpool Must Weigh Value Beyond Transfer Fee

Every successful side must make ruthless decisions. Sentiment cannot pick a midfield three. Yet Liverpool should ask whether selling Jones strengthens the squad, or merely tidies the balance sheet.

If Inter offer the right project, Jones may understandably listen. If Newcastle or Villa promise central status, he may feel the pull of regular Premier League football. But Liverpool should not mistake familiarity for limitation. Sometimes the player already inside the building remains more valuable than the one admired from afar.

Jones’ future now feels open. What Liverpool do next will say plenty about Slot’s rebuild, the club’s midfield priorities and how much space still exists at Anfield for local talent with unfinished business.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a concerned Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report should set a few alarms ringing. Curtis Jones may not be the flashiest name in the squad, but losing him would feel like another step away from the emotional core of the club. There is a difference between refreshing midfield options and casually allowing a technically gifted, homegrown player to walk away.

Jones has flaws. He can hold the ball too long, he has not always nailed down one fixed role, and injuries have interrupted momentum. Yet when Liverpool are functioning properly, he offers press resistance, composure and tactical discipline. Those qualities are not easy to replace, especially when squad rules and homegrown numbers matter.

Inter Milan would be a fascinating move for him, and perhaps even a smart one. Serie A could polish his game. Newcastle or Villa would be more uncomfortable, because watching Jones mature for a domestic rival would sting. Liverpool supporters have seen that story before with players allowed to leave too early.

The concern is not that Liverpool are planning boldly. They should be. The concern is whether they recognise what Jones still might become under Slot. Selling him should require a very strong fee, a clear midfield upgrade and absolute certainty. Anything less would feel premature.

Porto have completed the signing of Jakub Kiwior from Arsenal after a successful loan spell.

The Polish international joined the club last summer and has helped Porto reclaim the Portuguese title with two games to spare. Kiwior has also been part of a solid backline that has conceded just 15 goals in 32 games so far this season, seven fewer than the nearest team (Benfica, 22 goals conceded.)

Porto have now confirmed they have exercised the purchase option for the player that sees him join for an initial €17 million (just over £14.66m), a fee that could raise by a further €5 million depending on targets.

Arsenal could also receive a future €2 million from a future transfer fee should Kiwior be sold.

The defender has signed a four-year contract with Francesco Farioli's side which includes a €70 million release clause.

Manchester City has "strongly condemned" racist abuse directed at winger Antoine Semenyo during a 3-3 draw with Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool, and Merseyside Police confirmed they have arrested one suspected offender.

Additional, City said, defender Marc Guéhi, was subject to racist abuse online in the aftermath of the game, which saw City's Premier League title hopes dented and Arsenal take control of its destiny in the race to the title.

"Manchester City strongly condemns the racist abuse directed towards Antoine Semenyo at yesterday’s match," the statement read. "We welcome the swift action taken by Everton and the police to identify the individual responsible.

"We are also incredibly disappointed to hear that Marc Guéhi was subject to a series of vile racist social media posts last night. We will continue to offer our full support to both Antoine and Marc and never accept discrimination of any kind in our game."

Who was arrested for racist abuse at Hill Dickinson Stadium?

Police in Merseyside, the county where Everton calls home, said in a May 5 statement that, "A 71-year-old man from Nottinghamshire was arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence after supporters and stewards reported that racist abuse was shouted by a fan."

He has been bailed with conditions, among the conditions that he not go within a mile of a stadium four hours before, after or during a planned sporting event.

Everton moved to the 52,769-capacity stadium at the start of this season, and Everton has one match remaining at the venue this season, a May 17 home date with Sunderland.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Man City condemns racist abuse at Everton as police arrest one

La Liga giants Barcelona have joined the growing list of clubs expressing a keen interest in the signing of Bournemouth star Junior Kroupi.

It is of course widespread knowledge at this point that Barcelona are on the lookout for reinforcements in the final third with a view to next season.

Amid uncertainty surrounding the futures of all of Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres and Marcus Rashford, the Blaugrana are scouring the market for a player capable of making a difference in front of goal.

To date, the name most heavily linked with a Camp Nou switch has been Julián Alvarez.

In the knowledge that striking a deal with their counterparts at Atlético Madrid will prove no easy task, though, Barca are also eyeing more affordable backup options.

And as alluded to above, this week, one such option has been highlighted in the form of Junior Kroupi.

As per a report from Mundo Deportivo, citing the Daily Mail:

‘Barcelona have joined the list of major clubs interested in Kroupi. The youngster’s impressive performances have also reportedly attracted the attention of Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea.’

Deco and the Camp Nou board have long been keeping a close eye on Kroupi’s development, dating back to his days with Lorient.

Across the season to date, the attacker, still just 19, has racked up an impressive 12 goals in 30 Premier League appearances for Bournemouth.

Conor Laird – GSFN

Josep Maria Bartomeu is not a popular figure at Barcelona, at least not anymore, having been accused of multiple counts of corruption, which is coupled with the financial mismanagement of the club.

However, the former Barcelona president has never been shy about coming out in public to talk about his controversial time at the club.

In a recent interview with Cadena SER (h/t SPORT), Bartomeu talked about Messi’s time at the club and his eventual departure, as well as the Negreira case, among others.

On Messi’s stay and departure

Bartomeu was firm in his defence of the decision to keep Messi at the club despite the famous burofax requesting to leave.

“I’m very happy that Messi stayed with us; I would have kept him until the Qatar World Cup,” he said, adding that contract renewal talks had already been underway with the Argentine, who has recently purchased a stake in Spanish club Cornella.

“I tried to renew Leo Messi’s contract; it was essential to maintain our income level and because we were missing that player who brings a higher level of performance,” he added.

He also revealed that a move to Miami for both Messi and Luis Suarez had been discussed long before it eventually happened. “There had already been talk of a stint in Miami with both Messi and Luis Suarez,” he said.

Laporta wanted Messi to stay. (Photo by Marcos Brindicci/Getty Images)

On the current Barcelona squad, Bartomeu offered a telling reflection. “All these young players on the team, with Leo, would have learned faster. They are learning a lot, but they would have done so more quickly.”

“One or two more seasons at Barça, at least until the World Cup, would have been very positive for Barça,” he added. “He won a World Cup and another Ballon d’Or, and we couldn’t enjoy him as Barça fans; PSG did.”

Negreira case and his biggest mistake

Bartomeu was equally firm in distancing the club from any wrongdoing in the Negreira case, suggesting that the club only paid a company that produced reports.

“The reporting service has nothing to do with whether Barça had better or worse refereeing. We didn’t pay the vice president of the referees’ committee; we paid a company that produced reports,” he said.

Finally, Bartomeu identified one decision he would reverse. “My biggest mistake was not rising to the occasion when it came to firing Zubizarreta; if I could look back, as president I wouldn’t have made that decision,” he concluded.

Former Paris Saint-Germain defender Joane Gadou (19) is set to join Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season, as per reports from L’Équipe and Le Parisien.

Gadou left formative club PSG back in 2024 without having made a single appearance for the senior side. Despite not making the breakthrough, he was very highly rated. He convinced Red Bull Salzburg to spend €10m to acquire his services. 

The centre-back has already made 33 appearances for RB Salzburg this season, including seven in the UEFA Europa League. But his time with the Austrian side is nearing an end, as per reports from L’Équipe and Le Parisien.

They understand that an agreement in principle has been reached between RB Salzburg and Borussia Dortmund. The latter are currently second in the Bundesliga and guaranteed to participate in next season’s UEFA Champions League. 

The deal, should it be completed, will be worth €20m, without bonuses. 

GFFN | Luke Entwistle

Ismael Kone has a €35 million release clause in his Sassuolo contract that is valid until the end of July, with Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus all understood to be among the clubs interested in signing one of Serie A’s standout performers this season.

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According to Fabrizio Romano, via TuttoMercatoWeb, contacts between the parties are expected before the start of the World Cup, which Koné will feature in as a key member of the Canada squad.

Sassuolo CEO Giovanni Carnevali has also addressed the situation publicly. “I haven’t spoken with Inter or Milan about Koné, but it’s also true that we have had some requests from foreign clubs,” he said. “It’s possible that an Inter-Milan derby could emerge. We need to find the best situation for him, but at the same time for us too.”

PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Ismael Kone’ of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Arena Garibaldi on January 31, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Sassuolo open to Kone sale as Serie A giants circle ahead of World Cup

Milan sporting director Igli Tare has already publicly confirmed his club’s interest, and with the release clause set at a fixed figure, the race is likely to come down to the player’s preference rather than a negotiation over fee.

Inter and Juventus have also been linked with the Sassuolo man, in what promises to be a difficult battle for his signature.

As Carnevali noted, there is also interest from abroad in the Canadian, meaning Italian clubs will want to act fast to avoid missing out.

Koné will head into the summer with considerable leverage, having established himself as one of the most dynamic midfielders in Serie A this season.

The Champions League final four is often the stage for unbelievable scenarios.

From spectacular comebacks and historic thrashings to longevity records, the semi-finals have helped forge the legend of the Champions League.

Here’s a look back at the numbers and performances that have marked the competition’s history.

The biggest comeback in a Champions League semi-final

Liverpool 4-0 Barça in the second leg (0-3 in the first leg, 2018/19)

The biggest aggregate score (home and away)

Bayern Munich 7-0 Barça (4-0, 3-0) 2012/13

The biggest wins in a Champions League semi-final

Real Madrid 6-0 Zurich (07/05/1964)

Bayern Munich 4-0 Barcelona (23/04/2013)

Real Madrid 4-0 Bayern Munich (29/04/2014)

Liverpool 4-0 Barça (07/05/2019)

Manchester City 4-0 Real Madrid (17/05/2023)

Most goals scored in a Champions League semi-final

4 goals - Robert Lewandowski (Dortmund vs Real Madrid, 24/04/2013)

The oldest player in a Champions League semi-final 🦁

41 years and 206 days, Mark Schwarzer (Chelsea 1-3 Atlético), 30/04/2014

The youngest player in a Champions League semi-final

17 years and 2 days, Rayan Cherki (Lyon 0-3 Bayern, 19/08/2020)

The youngest goalscorer in a Champions League semi-final

17 years and 291 days, Lamine Yamal (Barcelona 3-3 Inter, 30/04/2025)

The oldest goalscorer in a Champions League semi-final

37 years and 148 days, Ryan Giggs (Schalke 0-2 Man United), 26/04/2011

The youngest player to score a hat-trick in a Champions League semi-final

23 years and 143 days, Alessandro Del Piero (Juventus 4-1 Monaco, 01/04/1998) 

The oldest player to score a hat-trick in a Champions League semi-final

32 years and 86 days, Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid 3-0 Atlético, 02/05/2017)

Top scorer in Champions League semi-finals

Cristiano Ronaldo - 13 goals 

Stats: UEFA

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

Romelu Lukaku’s agent, Federico Pastorello, confirms the Belgian striker will resume training with his Napoli teammates today, meeting with Antonio Conte: ‘The coach will decide what to do.’

Lukaku returns to Napoli to meet Conte

Belgium international Lukaku has returned to Naples after spending over one month in Antwerp, Belgium, for individual training sessions to regain full fitness.

Lukaku refused to return to Naples during the international break in March, remaining in Belgium without the club’s consent.

VERONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on February 28, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

He was, therefore, fined and frozen out of the team. He did return to Naples for just one day towards the end of April to meet club directors with his agent, Pastorello.

Lukaku and his representative did not sit down with Conte at the time, prompting the coach to publicly express his dissatisfaction.

“I know both [Lukaku and Conte] really well, and they both live football with great passion,” Pastorello told DAZN Belgium via TMW.

NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli reacts after missing a penalty in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

“That was not the right moment for a meeting, but they’ll do it today.”

Lukaku has now returned to Napoli’s training centre, his agent confirmed.

“Lukaku is back to Napoli, as expected, and he’ll resume training with the team now that he’s in better shape. Then the coach will decide what to do with Romelu,” Pastorello said.

Lukaku suffered a severe muscle injury at the beginning of the season, which forced him to the sidelines in the first part of the campaign.

The Belgian international, 32, has played only 64 minutes across all competitions this season, scoring one goal.

His contract at the Stadio Maradona runs out in June 2027.

James Tarkowski comes off second best against towering Newcastle defenders

(Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

For two seasons, James Tarkowski has been the bedrock of the Everton defence— the "Mr Dependable" who simply doesn't miss a minute of football.

But as we dissect the fallout from last night’s chaotic 3-3 draw against Manchester City at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, a growing number of Blues are asking a difficult question: is our vice-captain becoming a liability?

The Manchester City Meltdown

Last night was a microcosm of Tarkowski's season. While the headlines will rightly praise Thierno Barry’s double and the spirit shown to come from 0-1 to lead 3-1, the defensive lapses that allowed City to escape with a point were criminal.

The most egregious moment came in the 83rd minute. Having just taken a 3-1 lead, Everton’s defence — led by the veteran duo of Tarkowski and Michael Keane — completely switched off. Erling Haaland was allowed to race onto a Mateo Kovacic pass with embarrassing ease. Tarkowski’s lack of recovery pace and positioning were exposed as Haaland lifted the ball over Pickford. To concede within seconds of our third goal suggests a leadership vacuum at the heart of the backline.

Furthermore, Tarkowski's discipline was again called into question. His 53rd-minute yellow card for a cynical foul on Jeremy Doku was his 7th of the season (depending on the source, some data suggests 6, but his disciplinary record remains a concern). It forced him to play on a tightrope for the remainder of the match, limiting his ability to be aggressive against City's late onslaught.

The Statistical Decline

While Tarkowski still dominates the air — ranking in the 96th percentile for aerial duels won — other metrics paint a more worrying picture of his 2025-26 campaign:

• Goals Conceded: Everton have conceded 39 goals with Tarkowski on the pitch this season across 33 starts.
• Errors and Penalties: He has already conceded a penalty for handball this season (against Leeds) and was cited for an error leading to a goal in the 1-2 loss at Fulham in February.
• Indirect Responsibility: Beyond "official" errors, he has been part of a defensive unit that has struggled for consistency. In recent weeks, he has recorded low match ratings in losses to West Ham (1-2) and Liverpool (1-2), with critics pointing to a decline in his mobility following previous injury layoffs.
• The Pace Deficit: With only 4 successful dribbles all season and a 41% long-pass completion rate, Tarkowski is increasingly looking like a "box-defender" in a league that demands more mobility and technical security.

Time for the O’Brien-Branthwaite Axis?

The irony of last night was that Jake O'Brien, the man many want to see partner Jarrad Branthwaite long-term, was the one who scored the towering header from an excellent James Garner corner to put us 2-1 up. O'Brien showed the dynamism and goal threat that Tarkowski has struggled to provide this term (Tarkowski has just 1 goal from 16 shots inside the box this season).

The "squad audit" is becoming clear: while Tarkowski’s experience is valuable, his high wages and declining physical stats suggest he may no longer be an automatic starter if David Moyes wants to implement a more modern, mobile defensive line next season.

Of course, Branthwaite is out for what remains of this roller-coaster season, but worryingly, Tarkowski has already been granted a 2-year contract extension running through to June 2028. So his role going forward as one of Moyes's ageing favourites seems assured for the time being.

We love "Tarky" for his heart, but in a 3-3 thriller where the Everton defence "let themselves down" (Moyes's own words), the leadership we expect from our vice-captain was nowhere to be found when the game and the full 3 points from a precious win were on the line.

Manchester United have been on a roll under caretaker manager Michael Carrick, who remains an option for the full-time position at Old Trafford. However, that has not stopped the Red Devils from being linked to several managerial candidates ahead of the summer.

INEOS have had some poor luck with their managerial appointments and will be hoping to get third time lucky this year. Former head coach Ruben Amorim was appointed by United’s minority owners after a lot of background work, but his tenure turned out to be a disappointment.

The Portuguese head coach had an underwhelming 14-month spell at the Theatre of Dreams, and left in January with the club’s top-four hopes uncertain. Amorim’s future was also subject to speculation last summer after a 15th-placed finish in the Premier League last season.

The Portuguese survived the summer but had an underwhelming start to the new campaign, prompting speculation about his future. It was during that time that Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler was named as a possible replacement for the former Sporting manager.

Hurzeler’s rise at the Amex

Hurzeler arrived at the Amex in the summer of 2024, becoming the youngest permanent coach in Premier League history. The German soon added to his reputation as one of the most exciting young coaches in the world, and transformed Brighton into a well-drilled attacking unit.

Hurzeler has already displayed tactical flexibility, with his team playing intense attacking football and working extremely hard on the pitch. United had no answer to his tactics earlier this year in the FA Cup third round, losing the game 2-1 and exiting the tournament.

Darren Fletcher was in charge for that game in mid-January as interim manager following United’s decision to sack Amorim. The English giants were looking for some stability and appointed Carrick as the Portuguese’s temporary replacement a couple of days later.

Carrick, meanwhile, has already confirmed participation in next season’s Champions League by registering 10 wins and two draws in his 14 games in charge. United are third in the league table with three games remaining, and the focus has now shifted to the managerial selection process.

Michael Carrick Managerial Career Stats

Source: Wikipedia.

Several Premier League candidates have been named as options for the role, and it now appears that Hurzeler was also in the mix.

United considered Fabian Hurzeler

According to TEAMtalk, United briefly considered Hurzeler for the permanent position, but the German is now expected to sign a new deal at the Amex. The report states: “Brighton have moved decisively to secure the long-term future of head coach Fabian Hurzeler, with TEAMtalk able to confirm that the highly-rated German has agreed a new deal with the club.”

“We can also reveal that Manchester United had also done some work on him as part of their ongoing managerial hunt, though the Red Devils’ co-owners, INEOS, have long been convinced by Michael Carrick and were simply doing due diligence on alternatives should their first choice fail.”

A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person also states that United now consider Carrick as the frontrunner for the permanent position.

Final Thoughts

Hurzeler has been a revelation for the Seagulls, but as things stand, Carrick appears to be the best candidate for the position. With Champions League qualification secure, it is hard to look beyond the Englishman at the moment.

Featured image Gareth Copley via Getty Images

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As reported earlier this week, FC Barcelona are keeping tabs on AFC Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi heading into the summer transfer window.

The Blaugrana are in the market for a new centre-forward as Robert Lewandowski appears set to move on at the end of the season.

While Julian Alvarez is the priority target, his finances make the operation difficult, prompting Barça to keep an eye on alternatives, with Kroupi, 19, emerging as an option.

Eli Junior Kroupi not for sale

However, according to Lyall Thomas of Sky Sports, Bournemouth are not looking to sell Kroupi in the upcoming transfer window.

The teenage Frenchman joined the Cherries only last year, arriving from Lorient, and has enjoyed an impressive debut campaign – bagging 12 goals from 30 matches in the English top-flight.

His performances have alerted not only Barcelona, but also Manchester City and a number of other Premier League clubs.

Not for sale. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

As per the report, the Blaugrana have been tracking the France U21 international extensively this season and see him as a prospect for the long-term.

It must be remembered that the Catalans had already been monitoring Kroupi back in 2024 as well, before he had moved to Bournemouth.

Despite the interest that the young forward is attracting, Bournemouth are currently not looking to sell the player, who is tied down to a long-term contract until 2030.

So, unless the club come up with a significant offer, Barcelona’s chances of signing Kroupi in the upcoming transfer window appear to be very slim.