Football Transfers, News, Rumours, Reaction - talkSPORT

Mohamed Salah tipped to return to former club in shock transfer – but only on one condition

Amy Hamerslagh — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:50:59 +0000

Mohamed Salah has been tipped for a move to Serie A to play for former club Roma but only if he’s willing to take a significant pay cut.

The Egyptian star recently revealed his departure from Liverpool in an emotional statement, addressing fans on social media.

Salah has scored 255 goals in all competitions for the Reds

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The 33-year-old only signed a two-year deal last summer but will not see out the final year of his contract.

Salah arrived from Roma in the summer of 2017 and, in that time, has become a legend for the club, returning the Reds to their glory days.

During his time on Merseyside he has won the Premier League twice, the Champions League, two Carabao Cups and the FA Cup.

Additionally, the modern day Liverpool icon has achieved numerous personal accolades including a record three PFA Player of the Year awards and four Premier League Golden Boots.

talkSPORT’s Andy Brassell has speculated on where the Egyptian will play next and said: “Money is presumably important to everyone.

“We all want to look after our family’s future and I wouldn’t criticise anyone for that. However, if money was Mo Salah’s only consideration surely he could have made the Saudi move happen already.

“If he was that into the idea, we would know about it, and in terms of the public record we have very little idea of what Mo Salah is thinking about.

“It is assumed he would go to Saudi Arabia because he’s an Arab superstar and he would be the biggest thing ever in terms of the Saudi Pro League but in terms of what he wants, he stayed at Liverpool for a reason.

“He had nothing more to prove there, he had done it all really – he could have made more money going somewhere else but from a romantic perspective, him going back to Roma is beautiful.

“I love it and it would be amazing if he could spend his last couple of years at the Stadio Olimpico in a Roma shirt.

The Egyptian international played for Roma from 2015-2017 and scored a total of 34 goals across two seasons

“He would be incredible, he would be the best player in the league.”

Former Premier League star Kevin De Bruyne left Manchester City at the end of last season and moved to Napoli on a free transfer.

The Belgian was offered the legendary number 10 shirt that Diego Maradona had worn at the Italian club, however, he declined out of respect and opted for the number 11 instead.

The midfielder has struggled with a hamstring injury during his time in Serie A however in his 11 appearances he has still managed to score four goals and compete in the Champions League.

The highest paid footballer in Italy is Juventus‘ Dusan Vlahovic who earns an estimated amount of €22.2million (£19m) a year, while the current top-earning Roma player is Paulo Dybala, on approximately €7m (£6m) annually.

This would be a considerable wage drop for Salah after his time in the Premier League, where the winger earned roughly £21m per year.

Salah accused Slot of wanting him out of the club in December and that the two had no relationship.

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Meanwhile, Brassell has argued there’s a league barely being mentioned that would tick all of the Egyptian star’s boxes and said: “It could unify all of his potential interests and it would be Galatasaray or Fenerbahce in the Super Lig.

“I think they’re an obvious choice. If you’re talking about a desire to go and succeed in a Muslim country, Turkey is the place.

“It was interesting when Nicolas Anelka went to Fenerbahce, he felt quite strongly that he wanted to go and play in a Muslim country at that point in his career and it did a lot for him – it really changed him on a footballing and a personal level.

“The other side is you can get the biggest wages in Europe by playing for one of the biggest clubs in the Super Lig. You wouldn’t earn as much as you would in the Middle East but more than you would at another Premier League club and definitely more than you would at a Serie A club.

“You get to play in the Champions League and play in front of full stadiums where you would be worshipped. It does seem to tick a lot of boxes if you are Mo Salah, we can’t underestimate how quiet he has been on what he wants to do next.

“Maybe it takes him a few months or after the World Cup to decide but when he wants something he is not quiet about it.”

A move to Saudi Arabia has been the most speculated as the Saudi Pro League is already home to a host of world-class players from across the globe, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Salah’s former teammate Sadio Mane.

However, there may be one issue with the league that doesn’t align with the winger’s plans and that is the lack of Champions League football which has been incredibly impactful on his career, having scored 48 goals in the competition.

Sean Dyche reveals transfer for Ballon d’Or nominee ‘could have changed everything’ at Everton

Joe Brophy — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 12:56:17 +0000

Sean Dyche once came so close to signing Scott McTominay and admitted his arrival could have turned his Everton fortunes around.

The 54-year-old told talkSPORT that the Scotland talisman ‘was on’ for a switch to the Toffees before he left Manchester United.

McTominay could have proved a transformative signing at Everton

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McTominay has developed into one of Europe’s most influential midfielders since his £25m switch to Napoli in August 2024.

The 29-year-old claimed the Serie A MVP Award en route to firing Antonio Conte’s side to their fourth league triumph last season.

His debut campaign saw him become an instant hero in Naples, and he was rewarded with a top 20 finish in the 2025 Ballon d’Or.

McTominay added the latest chapter of his recent fairytale by scoring a bicycle kick to help Scotland reach their first World Cup in 28 years.

And Dyche revealed it could have been so different for him had the midfielder continued his post-Old Trafford career at Everton instead.

The ex-Toffees boss confirmed the club’s serious interest in McTominay during an appearance in the talkSPORT studios.

Dyche reveals how close Everton came to signing McTominay

“When I was at Everton, I was very close to getting McTominay, do you know that?” Dyche told friend and actor Jonny Owen live on air.

“Very close, couldn’t believe I missed out on him, I couldn’t believe, I think his agent said he was on for it and everything.”

Dyche had been desperate for reinforcements after PSR-related issues forced Everton into the £50m sale of Amadou Onana.

McTominay scored in a 2-0 win over Dyche’s Everton in 2023

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The midfielder was ‘very close’ to moving to the Toffees before he joined Napoli

McTominay, who had fallen out of favour at Man United under Erik ten Hag, had been earmarked as the ideal fit to bolster the midfield.

Instead, the 67-cap Scotland international moved to Napoli, while Dyche was sacked by Everton half a season later.

“There was a deal [for McTominay],” The former Burnley and Nottingham Forest boss added.

“I’m not gonna name, there was a player who’s going the other way, and all that business, and I couldn’t get it over the line.

“I reckon that could have changed everything for me.”

McTominay has become a superstar since his move away from Man United

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‘Couldn’t believe’ he wasn’t playing

McTominay, who enjoyed a 22-year association at Man United, made only 18 Premier League starts during his final season at the club.

That was despite registering what was then his best scoring campaign, having netted 10 times in 43 appearances in all competitions, which he surpassed with 12 Serie A goals last term.

Dyche continued: “What a player – I couldn’t believe he wasn’t playing at Man U, I couldn’t get my around [the fact that] he wasn’t playing.

“I couldn’t believe it.”

Six Premier League clubs in for Championship star loved by Chelsea legend

Ciaran Wiseman — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:52:07 +0000

Brighton goalkeeper Carl Rushworth is attracting interest from as many as six Premier League clubs, talkSPORT understands.

Rushworth has spent the season on loan at Coventry City and has been a revelation for the Sky Blues, keeping a Championship-high 13 clean sheets.

GettyRushworth is wanted by six Premier League clubs after his heroics for Coventry[/caption]

Coventry boss Frank Lampard would love to sign the former England under-21 international permanently, but faces fierce competition.

Brighton are believed to value Rushworth in the region of £20million and could also opt to keep him.

The 24-year-old’s contract with the Seagulls currently has one year remaining.

Rushworth joined Brighton aged 17 in 2019 and has since had loan spells with Worthing, Walsall, Lincoln City, Swansea City and Hull City.

It is with Lampard’s side that he has excelled this season, though, playing every minute of their Championship campaign.

As well as conceding just 40 goals in his 38 league appearances, Rushworth also provided an assist in last month’s win over Middlesbrough.

Lampard hails Rushworth

Meanwhile, his recent performance in a 2-0 victory at Bristol City saw him tipped for a future England call-up by his manager.

After the match, Lampard was asked if international football is a reasonable target for Rushworth.

The Sky Blues boss told reporters: “Yes, for sure. I mean, without telling any England manager what to do…

“I know Jordan Pickford who I worked with (at Everton), and is an incredible goalkeeper, and the goalkeepers are around him.

Lampard has tipped his on-loan goalkeeper for a future England call-up

“But Rushy, just to isolate him, he’s got absolutely the talent to be able to play for his country, in my opinion.

“He just needs to keep working, but the levels he’s playing at are really, really good, and he’s been a big signing for us.”

talkSPORT revealed earlier this season that Rushworth was being eyed for a potential Three Lions call-up.

Thomas Tuchel will name his squad for the upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan on Friday.

Rushworth previously won the Under-21 Euros in 2023 as part of Lee Carsley’s side.

However, he won just one cap for the Young Lions, which came on the eve of the tournament.

Rushworth’s 13 clean sheets in the Championship this term is more than any other player

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Instead, he was forced to watch on as an understudy to first-choice stopper James Trafford.

Rushworth could have his hands on a trophy once again this season as Coventry close in on a return to the Premier League.

The Sky Blues are seven points clear of Boro at the top of the table, whilst third-place Ipswich Town are nine points adrift of the leaders.

Coventry visit Swansea on Saturday as they aim to take another step towards ending their 25-year absence from the top-flight.

Chelsea told 31-year-old free agent wanted by Arsenal is ideal Enzo Fernandez replacement

Joe Brophy — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:24:33 +0000

Chelsea have been told to rival Arsenal for Bayern Munich star Leon Goretzka, especially if the Blues end up losing Enzo Fernandez.

The 31-year-old Germany international will be among the most coveted free agents this summer when his current contract expires.

Goretzka will leave Bayern Munich at the end of his current contract

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Goretzka‘s trophy haul includes six Bundesliga titles, two DFB-Pokals and the 2020 Champions League in his eight-year Bayern stint.

This season, the midfielder has scored two goals and registered one assist across 35 appearances for Vincent Kompany’s side.

He has started in all-but six of his 23 Bundesliga outings, but has been restricted to just 83 minutes in Bayern’s European campaign.

It was announced in late January that Goretzka would become a free agent this summer, days before Arsenal made their interest clear.

Leon Goretzka transfer latest

European football expert Andy Brassell admitted that the idea of Goretzka in the Premier League makes a lot of sense.

“He’s not at his 2020 peak,” he told talkSPORT.com. “I don’t think there’s any doubt about that.

“He was built like a Marvel hero after his lockdown workouts, and he and Joshua Kimmich seemed to represent the future of Bayern on and off the pitch.

“What he has underlined in this season, when he has started 17 Bundesliga games, is that he remains a very, very good player.

“When you look at the physical side of him, I think him in the Premier League makes a lot of sense.”

Goretzka remains a senior figure in Bayern’s squad with Kimmich and Kane

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Goretzka to Arsenal or Chelsea?

The 67-cap German international has played the entirety of his senior career in his homeland but is a long-standing Premier League target.

talkSPORT’s Alex Crook revealed the Gunners did ask the question of his availability in the wake of Mikel Merino’s injury, but ultimately put a move on hold with the idea to revisit at the end of the season.

Chelsea could also be in the market for a new midfielder, with Ben Jacobs confirming Enzo Fernandez is open to leaving the Blues.

Meanwhile, Manchester United are another option, with veteran Casemiro set to leave a void upon the expiry of his contract in June.

On Goretzka, Brassell added: “I think if you could get him into a side with a really good defensive midfielder, then he’s off the chain.

Goretzka’s profile makes him an ideal fit for the physicality of the Premier League

The Argentina international has produced a mixed bag of displays throughout his Chelsea career

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“I think you’re getting 10, 12 goals a season out of him. If you can unlock that side to him, again, he’s tough, he can handle himself, he can do the defensive side of the game as well.

“This has been a reminder that even if he’s not become quite the player that Bayern thought he would be, at 31, I still think he’s got plenty in the tank.

“If you’re looking at someone who really all you’re dealing with is the wages, he’s on a free, so you’re not paying a massive fee for him.

“I guess if Bayern had sold him two or three years ago, they could have commanded whatever.

“I’d like him for Arsenal, I’d like him for Man United, I’d like him for Chelsea, especially if they end up losing Enzo Fernandez. We’ll have to see what happens there.

“But because he’s not always been first pick, he’s become more versatile as well, so he can do more different roles in the midfield.

“I’m not saying he starts for whatever Premier League team, I’m not sure that’s the case.

“But he’s someone who, in a game now where if you’re one of the best teams, you’re playing like 60 games a season, if you’ve got a bloke who takes part in like 45, starting or sub, or 50, he’s someone who can definitely do that.”

Premier League clubs urged to ‘think twice’ about signing free agent who Jurgen Klopp wanted before Mohamed Salah

Joe Brophy — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 16:58:39 +0000

Premier League clubs have been warned against picking up Julian Brandt as a free agent this summer.

The 29-year-old, who turns 30 in May, will leave Borussia Dortmund when his current contract expires at the end of the season.

Premier League clubs have been cautioned over signing Julian Brandt

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The 48-cap Germany international, who has been a central figure at the Signal Iduna Park for seven years, has mutually agreed to part ways at Dortmund.

Brandt is a long-standing Premier League target, having famously been the player Jurgen Klopp favoured for Liverpool in 2017 before the club’s data team successfully lobbied for Mohamed Salah instead.

The German is now ironically said to be attracting attention from the Reds’ Merseyside rivals Everton, as well as Aston Villa.

However, European football expert Andy Brassell told talkSPORT.com that there are massive warning signs for any potential English suitors.

Julian Brandt transfer news

“We know that Villa have been interested in Julian Brandt before,” Trans Europe Express regular Brassell said.

“But if you’ve already got [Emi] Buendia and if you’ve already got Morgan Rogers, John McGinn, I don’t really know why you would want Julian Brandt. OK, he’s on a free, I get that.

“But is someone who will command absolutely enormous wages, who’s going to be 30-years-old and has never played in the Premier League before?

“Those are all big warning signs to me.

“And I think the difficulty for Brandt from his perspective is that on one hand, he has a really good CV.

“He’s two games off playing 300 games for Dortmund, but there’s always been that feeling at Dortmund that can’t he just do a little bit more?”

Brandt is Dortmund’s third top goalscorer in the Bundesliga this term, while he sits joint fourth for assists

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Klopp has initially been keen on bringing Brandt to Anfield in 2017 before Salah was brought in

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Julian Brandt stats

This season, the attacker is just one goal contribution shy of reaching double figures in the Bundesliga with six strikes and three assists.

Yet Brassell added: “He’s just lacking a little something to make him absolutely elite.

“We know he’s capable of elite performances and elite performances in big games in the Champions League.

“But the fact is that Dortmund have decided enough is enough for a reason, because it’s a mutual decision, of course.

“That’s the way it’s been framed, but they’re not desperately unhappy to get out from €8million (£6.9m) a year of wages.

“And if you think that Dortmund are looking at a bit of a reset, they want to move on from a fairly old team, and what they’ve been is a bank for almost elite players who are commanding absolutely humongous wages.

Brandt remains capable of elite performances in the Champions League, as was the case against Atletico Madrid in Dortmund’s run to the 2024 final

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“The amount of salary that they’re getting off by losing a few of these guys, and if they lose Karim Adeyemi as well, is significant.

“And they’ll be able to do a complete rebuild and be a lot healthier financially, which they’ve wanted to be for a long time.

“The reality is, Brandt at his best is brilliant. He could decide any game.

“The other part of the reality is, he’s not been consistent enough to make any other club come and buy him or to make Dortmund continue to pay his absolutely enormous wages.

“So maybe there is a Premier League club that picks up, but at 30? I don’t think there are that many contenders out there.

“And of course, there’s the question of where you put him in the team? Because really, he’s probably an 8 or a 10, despite the fact that he’s flirted with playing on the wing before.

Dortmund have confirmed Brandt will become a free agent when his contract expires at the end of the season

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“But do you give a guy like that, who hasn’t played in the Premier League before and is a bit inconsistent, the keys to the team?

“I don’t know if you do.”

Real Madrid told to forget about Dominik Szoboszlai transfer and use player right under their nose

Joe Brophy — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 14:16:02 +0000

Real Madrid have been told to forget about trying to sign Liverpool star Dominik Szoboszlai – as brilliant as he is.

That is the verdict from European football expert Andy Brassell, who believes the Hungarian fixes neither of Los Blancos’ two glaring issues.

Szoboszlai (R) has been tipped as Van Dijk’s successor as Liverpool captain

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Szoboszlai, whose current Liverpool contract is due to expire in 2028, has been labelled as one of the best players in the world this season.

The 25-year-old has been one of the few standouts from the Reds’ difficult season, despite playing several games at right-back.

Ironically, he has been linked to following in the footsteps of his close friend and former teammate, Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was in that position last season, by moving to Madrid.

Hungary boss Marco Rossi said the LaLiga giants have always been his captain’s ‘dream’, while Vinícius Júnior recently gifted Szoboszlai a personalised pair of his signature Nike boots.

Szoboszlai to Real Madrid

A switch to the Bernabeu would throw into doubt the future of Arda Güler, who had a pubic spat with the Liverpool midfielder last year.

Brassell, who called the 21-year-old the most important player of the Xabi Alonso era, doubled down on how valuable the Turkish star is.

“I think probably Real Madrid need Arda Guler even more than they did in the first part of the season,” he exclusively told talkSPORT.com.

“Without going full recency bias, I look at the last couple of games, where they’ve just about chiselled a win out of Celta with a massive deflected goal by Federico Valverde in the fourth minute of stoppage time. Before that, they lost at home to Getafe at the Bernabeu.

“Those last couple of games, it really underlines how much they have to rely on Arda Guler. Who else in that midfield is unlocking the door?

Szoboszlai was called a ‘joke’ by Real Madrid star Guler following a clash last year

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“When you look at the quality of players that they’ve got, when you look at the range of options that they’ve got, the amount they spend on wages and the amount they spend buying players in, it’s remarkable really.

“There’s this guy who’s still young, still developing, and if they want someone to open up another team, it has to be him.

“If they want a player for a really crafty last pass or a mini-dribble, it’s him. Who else is it apart from Arda Guler?”

Guler vs Szoboszlai

Guler has scored three goals and registered 13 assists in all competitions this season, two fewer than Szoboszlai’s haul of 10 goals and eight assists, with the latter also often deployed at right-back.

“Funnily enough, I guess there’s two strands of the Szoboszlai argument,” Brassell continued to talkSPORT.com.

Aurélien Tchouameni and captain Federico Valverde are the only Madrid midfielders to have played more minutes than Guler

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Suspension and two Carabao Cup games are the only matches Szoboszlai hasn’t started across all competitions for Liverpool

“One, I guess you think, okay, well, he makes you very dangerous from set-pieces, he can shoot from distance, he brings some real dynamism to that team.

“But he wouldn’t be the first player I thought of because if you’re thinking of someone who could add craft to that Real Madrid team, they’ve got a lot of power in that midfield already.

“Now, obviously, with his long-range shooting, Szoboszlai adds something a little bit extra.

“But if I was a Real Madrid director of football, he wouldn’t be the first player on my list.

“I think someone who can regulate the flow of the game with their passing, rather than someone who hares around like you’re playing Premier League every day of the week and twice on Sundays, makes better sense for Real Madrid.

“So, look, clubs don’t always, and particularly a Real Madrid-type club, don’t always go for what they really need in the transfer market.

Salah claimed Szoboszlai is one of the best in the world on current form

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“They buy the most bankable players and then figure it out from there.

“But if we’re looking at the issues that Real Madrid have got, the two biggest ones are defence, which was a problem for them last season as well.

“They’ve sort of drifted into the buy-in role of suffering from poor defensive recruitment, and that being something that really lets them down at an elite level on the pitch.

“And that bit of craft in midfield. Dominik Szoboszlai doesn’t address either of those. Brilliant player as he is.”

Joao Pedro’s ex-EFL teammate wouldn’t be surprised to see him join Chelsea’s major rivals

Joe Brophy — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 10:51:23 +0000

Joao Pedro’s form comes as little surprise to one of his ex-teammates, who said he always had the belief that he could reach the top.

The Chelsea attacker is enjoying the best purple patch of his career, having scored 11 goals in only 13 appearances under Liam Rosenior.

Rosenior claimed Joao Pedro belongs in the same ‘category’ as Haaland, Kane and Mbappe

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The 24-year-old has already surpassed the seven goals he managed for Enzo Maresca following his £60million switch from Brighton.

He netted Chelsea‘s fourth in their 4-2 FA Cup win over Wrexham on Saturday, which came days after bagging his first Blues hat-trick.

Rosenior, who has labelled the Brazil international ‘world class’ and said he wouldn’t swap him for anyone, first saw Joao Pedro up close during the pair’s respective tenures in the Championship.

His stint as Hull City boss saw him manage against Chelsea’s No.20 for the first time during a goalless draw with Watford in December 2022.

On that day, Joao Pedro was joined in the Hornets’ attack by Udinese’s main man Keinan Davis, who was on loan from Aston Villa.

The pair played 25 times together at Vicarage Road in the ’22/23, and Davis was in no doubt about the levels his ex-teammate could reach.

‘Top person’ Joao Pedro wouldn’t surprise ex-teammate with Arsenal transfer

In fact, the 28-year-old admitted he wouldn’t even be surprised if Joao Pedro emulated Kai Havertz in moving across London to Premier League leaders Arsenal.

“Yeah, for sure [you could see it],” he exclusively told talkSPORT.com. “You’re gonna see in training his quality.

“Even playing with him, he’s Brazilian, so he’s just got that flair and belief in himself that he knows he’s a very good player.

Davis had high praise for his former Watford teammate

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Davis told talkSPORT that he wouldn’t be surprised to see his former strike partner at Arsenal

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“He’s a good guy as well,” Davis continued to talkSPORT.com. “He’s not disrespectful or anything like that; he’s just a top person.

“So yeah, you could definitely see that you can move on to make big steps.

“To see him at Chelsea now is like…Even if he went to Arsenal or something like that, I wouldn’t be surprised; he’s very good.”

On paper, that Watford side now boasts the richest attacking talent in Europe, with Ismaïla Sarr also part of a team that began that season under now-Wolves manager, Rob Edwards.

Crystal Palace talisman Sarr exceeded his goal tally from last season with his double against Tottenham, in 839 fewer minutes.

Davis, meanwhile, moved up to second in the race for the Serie A golden boot after scoring two goals in as many games last week.

Davis spent a season on loan at Watford in 2022/23 before joining Udinese

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He is now a hugely popular figure in both Udinese’s dressing room and among the fans

The England youth international’s nine league strikes in Italy are two clear of the total tally he managed during his difficult Watford loan.

“Obviously, when I went there, I was thinking, ‘yeah, we’re going to have a good opportunity to go up’,” Davis added to talkSPORT.

“Hamza Choudhury was there as well. We had a lot of great players.

“I don’t know, it just didn’t work. Maybe, Ismaïla Sarr, he got to a stage where he’s been in the Premier League, he’s gone down, he’s gone back up. Maybe he wanted to leave that year.

“Joao was on the rise. Joao was a top player. So, I think it’s just kind of a crossroads of a lot of different stuff.

“Obviously, I got promoted at Nottingham Forest, and when I went to Watford, that wasn’t my first choice to go to Watford.”

Davis is not the only star from that Watford team to thrive at the top level

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Sarr’s double against Spurs means he’s beaten his total output from last season

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Keinan Davis: ‘I was a bit immature at Watford’

“So, I think I was a bit immature, and I was just a bit in my own head thinking, like I thought I’d be somewhere else, honestly,” he added.

“So, yeah, it was just kind of this; that year was definitely on me. Even when people ask me, ‘How was it?’ my response would be, I was a bit immature in the beginning, and you can’t go into a season like that and then expect things to go well. So, I took full responsibility for how I approached going into it.

“Throughout the season, you speak to your friends and your family, but at the end of the season, you reflect, and then I just knew how I approached it, I can’t do that because no one cares.

“You can’t feel sorry for yourself. You can’t expect this. That’s just not how it works.

“You’ve got to put your head down and do what you have to do and prove it. That season, I didn’t.”

Davis is in the form of his life after registering his 12th goal contribution in 24 games

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‘Modern striker’ Keinan Davis ‘has everything’

However, this season, Davis is more than proving it at Udinese, and is just one goal away from being the joint second-highest scoring Englishman playing in one of Europe’s top-five leagues.

“For sure, this is his best season since he’s been playing for Udinese,” his manager Kosta Runjaić told talkSPORT.com.

“He struggled the first season, and even the second season, he had some injuries, so he couldn’t get into the rhythm.

Davis is only one goal behind the second-highest scoring Englishman in Europe’s top-five leagues

“And now, this season, he’s playing a very important role inside the team, scoring goals, but not only about this, he’s working hard for the team, he’s able to keep the ball, a very skilful player. And a player who makes a difference.

“He’s still, for me, a very young player, a very young striker, and we’ll see what the future will bring.

“He’s a very modern striker; he has everything.

“He has speed, technical skills, he has a good perception on the pitch, he’s a good finisher. So he just needs games, and he needs to play to get the rhythm, to become really physically strong.”

Tottenham striker Dominic Solanke wanted by Premier League rivals to replace £69m star

Anton Stanley — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 13:05:07 +0000

As Tottenham’s Premier League woes continue, star striker Dominic Solanke is being targeted by Premier League rivals Newcastle.

Those already sure of their top-flight status are mulling over picking the bones out of the troubled Londoners, with the forward a key target for the Toon, according to reports.

GettySolanke could easily find himself back in the Premier League if Tottenham are relegated[/caption]

Spurs aren’t yet in the relegation zone, but a horrific run of form sees them one point ahead of Nottingham Forest and West Ham in 16th position.

The Europa League holders – hit by a raft of injuries and suspensions – haven’t won since December 28.

Their calamitous 3-1 loss to Crystal Palace – ironically the team they beat last – was their 11th game in the Premier League without victory.

That run has included seven defeats – six of those coming since Solanke’s return from an ankle injury.

However, the centre-forward has been a rare bright spot with his hard-working displays.

He also has three goals in that time, including two vital strikes against Man City, with one of those a Goal of the Season contender, coming via a scorpion kick.

He said after the strike: “It’s great work from Conor, as soon as he went I thought, ‘this is my moment.’ It was a crazy feeling watching it go in. I’m doing a roly-poly as I see it going into the back of the net!

“It’s a very rare goal to score. We don’t see many of those go in. Obviously, it’s nice to try it, but when it works, it’s one in a million. It’s definitely one of the best goals I’ve ever scored. It’s a goal that I’m going to watch back a lot for sure.”

Solanke also netted in the most recent loss to Crystal Palace, flicking home from an excellent Archie Gray move.

It was he who had to face the media after, and cut a composed figure despite the chaos around him.

Dominic Solanke’s goalscoring could keep Tottenham in the Premier League

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Remaining Tottenham PL fixtures

Liverpool vs Tottenham – March 15
Tottenham vs Nottingham Forest – March 22
Sunderland vs Tottenham – April 12
Tottenham vs Brighton – April 18
Wolves vs Tottenham – TBD
Aston Villa vs Tottenham – TBD
Tottenham vs Leeds – TBD
Chelsea vs Tottenham – TBD
Tottenham vs Everton – TBD

Solanke said: “We’ve just had a big conversation. We know the position we are in is definitely not where we want to be so we need to figure out how we are going to get out of it as soon as possible.

“We know there’s been difficulties but we’re not in a position to make any excuses anymore.

“We need to do the job on the pitch and I think it is easy to say that we want to be better, but we need to make sure we are better on the pitch.”

As such, his form, despite the lengthy injury absence has him on Newcastle wanted list.

talkSPORT understands the Magpies will sell their current starting striker, Nick Woltemade, as he’s unhappy at the club.

Solanke would be a smart replacement for the forward, if Spurs are relegated and forced to sell.

Nick Woltemade cut a disconsolate figure during Newcastle’s FA Cup loss to Man City

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Toon boss Eddie Howe worked with the 28-year-old at Bournemouth too, which could help any possible transfer.

Woltemade, a £69million summer signing, has had ups and downs since his arrival at St James’ Park

He’s scored seven goals in 25 Premier League matches but hasn’t netted in the competition since December 20 when he hit a double against Chelsea.

The German has one strike since then in 20 appearances across all competitions.

His national team boss Julian Nagelsmann still has faith in the forward, despite the downturn in form, and he should still head to the World Cup this summer.

Monaco CEO makes frank admission on Paul Pogba’s future after ‘very high expectations’

Joe Brophy — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 11:12:39 +0000

Monaco’s CEO Thiago Scuro has admitted the club will hold talks with Paul Pogba over his future but insisted nothing has been decided.

The Ligue 1 club gave the former Manchester United star a career lifeline after a two-year ban, yet injuries have wrecked his comeback.

Monaco manager Sebastien Pocognoli left Pogba out of his Champions League knockout squad

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Pogba, once the world’s most expensive footballer, has endured a big ordeal to return to glory after failing a drugs test at Juventus in 2023.

Having then been released by the Old Lady, Monaco offered the midfielder the chance to play competitively again in his homeland.

Pogba signed a two-year deal with the Principality outfit last June, but had to wait until November 22 to make his first appearance.

He played four minutes in a 4-1 loss to Rennes and managed late cameos against Paris Saint-Germain and Brest before injury struck.

Why did Monaco sign Pogba?

The club’s CEO, Scuro, joined talkSPORT on Tuesday to discuss the reasons behind signing the Frenchman and the plans for the summer.

“Paul, first of all, was about performance,” the 44-year-old told Matterface & Jordan. “It is about performance, the first step.

“Paul is a very talented player with a different tier than we are used to having in Ligue 1.

“He’s coming back from two years without playing – We knew that the challenge to bring him back would be high.

“Of course that he brings also an impact in terms of visibility to the league, to AS Monaco, commercial revenues, all of this.

Pogba was emotional when his eventual return to football was celebrated by both Monaco and rival fans

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The ex-Man United midfielder has managed just 30 minutes for his new club

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“But as we all know, the player must be on the pitch performing for everything to work well,” Monaco CEO Scuro continued on talkSPORT.

“At the end, we started this process in the summer with a very high expectation.”

Pogba suffered a calf injury on December 13 and has been out since – even being deregistered from Monaco’s Champions League squad.

In total, the 2018 World Cup winner has played just 30 minutes across three substitute appearances in Ligue 1 since joining last summer.

Les Monégasques CEO added: “It’s costing a lot for him to be able to be consistently on the pitch.

“He had a few minutes during the season which showed his level, his capacity, and we are still pushing for him to have more time on the pitch at the end of the season.”

Pogba has missed the past 14 games across all competitions through injury

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Will Pogba leave Monaco?

Scuro, who was previously linked with a move to Arsenal, revealed all parties will hold talks over the Frenchman’s next steps soon.

“Considering what is going on is both hands discussion in the summer if Paul is still willing to keep facing this process, and also on our side, at the right moment, we’re going to have this conversation,” he said.

“I would say today that both directions can happen by Paul’s position or even the club.

“Now we are focused on giving him the opportunity to be more on the pitch and show that he’s still able to play for a few more seasons.”

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Pogba shared snaps of his latest return to training this week, but his European demotion has ruled him out of facing PSG on Wednesday.

Monaco travel to the Parc des Princes for the second leg of the Champions League playoff, looking to overturn a 3-2 deficit.

Asked about the club’s hopes of a shock away victory, Scuro replied: “Well, we are going fully with the mindset that we are able to face them.

“At the end of our second half with 10 men, we did well conceding only one goal against Paris.

Champions League holders PSG came from two goals down to beat Monaco 3-2

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“We saw the level of substitutions, the quality of the squad, they have one of the best coaches in the world, who is the current champion of champions league.

“No doubts about their quality, but if we have a strong mindset on the game, if we keep ourselves together, if we follow the game plan, we are able to qualify to go further.

“This is the mindset we’ve been working on the last two to three days, especially here, and we go fully with this objective.

“[We know] how hard it is, but we have the capacity and the tools to go there and make a very good game tomorrow at Parc des Princes.”

Premier League club plan to win race for Germany World Cup wildcard by signing his brother

Joe Brophy — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 14:59:23 +0000

Brighton have a unique plan to beat Premier League rivals in the race to land Said El Mala by making the transfer a family affair.

The Seagulls’ lauded recruitment model earmarked the 19-year-old in Germany’s third division last summer – and have since watched him blossom into one of the Bundesliga’s biggest breakout stars.

El Mala ended a run of six games without a goal contribution by scoring and assisting in the 2-2 draw with Hoffenheim

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His form for Köln, aka Cologne, earned him his first international call-up in November after just over 501 top-flight minutes.

Brighton remain interested in the five-cap Germany U21 star, who has also attracted interest from Manchester United and Tottenham.

However, Fabian Hürzeler’s side hope to have the edge on the Premier League’s ‘big six’ by signing El Mala’s brother Malek as well.

Said El Mala transfer latest

talkSPORT’s chief football correspondent, Alex Crook, told Matterface and Jordan: “This is a really interesting one. It was reported in The Times. I’ve tried to do some digging on it this morning, and there does seem to be some substance to it.

“Said El Mala, who was playing in the German third tier for his local club only last season, he’s now starring in the Bundesliga.

“He’s got an outside chance, apparently, of making Germany’s World Cup squad.

“He’s the perfect profile for Brighton and their data models. So they’re interested not only in him, but in his brother Malek.

“And I think they’re looking to potentially sign both of them, hoping that getting Malek would persuade Said to join them.

“So, yeah, I mean, it looks like a good signing on paper for Brighton.”

El Mala has started just two of the past five Bundesliga games despite being the club’s top goalscorer

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His brother Malek is currently playing for Köln’s reserve team in the fourth division

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Brighton’s recruitment model

The south coast outfit’s transfer strategy has often been labelled as the blueprint for English clubs in discovering hidden gems.

Nine of the club’s top 10 most expensive sales have been to Premier League rivals, and all have come within the past four and a half years.

Yet there has been little evidence to suggest that Brighton’s recent crop will generate a Moises Caicedo or Joao Pedro type profit.

During the Seagulls’ 2-0 win over Brentford, only two of the nine players who arrived in Hürzeler’s first summer started – while his three most expensive signings were all unused substitutes.

Crook added: “I would argue one of the issues they’ve had this season is they’ve not probably invested enough in experienced players.

Chelsea have paid Brighton nearly £300m in transfers over the last three years

The Blues are among the potential suitors for El Mala as well

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“And we saw at the weekend that they put the experienced heads back in the team. James Milner, at the age of 40, breaking the Premier League appearance record.

“And they’ve picked up a good 2-0 win at Brentford.

“So I think they’ll keep investing in young players, but I think they’re aware they need that experience as well.”

Who is Said El Mala?

Brighton’s proposed plan for the teenager mirrors the one taken by Köln themselves when they landed El Mala and his older brother, Malek, from city rivals Viktoria Köln in 2024.

A transfer ban meant the siblings were sent back on loan to the German third-tier side last season, where Said particularly flourished.

El Mala is understandably frustrated by his limited playing time

Köln head coach Lukas Kwasniok prefers to use his top goalscorer as an impact sub

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The younger El Mala scored 13 goals en route to being named the 3. Liga Newcomer of the Season, and Brighton soon made their move.

Köln, who had already missed out on a bumper payday when Bayer Leverkusen poached an emerging Florian Wirtz, resisted the interest.

That decision looked inspired when El Mala scored six goals and registered three assists during his first 13 senior Bundesliga matches.

However, the 6ft 2in winger has completed 90 minutes in Germany’s top-flight just twice in the 10 gameweeks since.

European football expert Andy Brassell exclusively told talkSPORT.com: “It’s been difficult for him to kick on, actually.

“He’s almost become a hub of a bit of a culture war in Cologne, because as they’ve started to struggle a little bit, Lukas Kwasniok, the coach, has sometimes not started El Mala.

“That is something that has deeply angered a lot of fans, both online and in the stadium, and it’s been difficult for people to understand.

“Cologne has not had a lot of players that you can say are superstars and really get you out of your seat. El Mala is that.

European expert Brassell speaking to talkSPORT on El Mala before Christmas

‘They want to sell him for maximum value’

“He gets the ball, and he goes past players. He’s an incredibly direct winger. He’s able to contribute goals, and he’s done that.

“Really good teams like Bayern Munich have struggled to handle him this season. And he scored at Hoffenheim at the weekend with that sort of pace, that directness, that ability to make decisions at pace and the ability to execute at pace.

“In the last couple of weeks, a lot of local media speculation has been saying, well, he’ll definitely be gone at the end of the year because he doesn’t feel like he’s playing enough, which is really sad.

El Mala – pictured challenging England’s Ethan Nwaneri at Under 19 level – looked good value to force his way into Germany’s World Cup squad

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He looks increasingly likely to leave the club this summer

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“El Mala needs to play. The club needs him to play to keep his value up because when they sell him, they want to sell him for maximum value. They can only sell him once.

“And I think the fans really want to be bathing in his brilliance until the moment that he goes. And so they should.

“He would have been a Germany World Cup wildcard. But because he’s not started as much recently and Kwasniok has always been a little bit reticent to start him, I think he’s less and less likely to make the final squad, even with enlarged squads going into the World Cup, which would be a shame.

“I’d love to see him do it for Germany, just as I would like to see him play for Cologne every week until such times as he gets sold on.”

West Ham flop would be perfect for Premier League – if he hadn’t fallen flat at Hammers

Joe Brophy — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 13:08:57 +0000

Gianluca Scamacca’s revival in Serie A would be catching the eye of Premier League clubs – if they could forget his spell at West Ham.

That is the opinion of European football expert Andy Brassell, who believes there is a shortage of centre-forwards of the Italian’s level.

Scamacca has a goal involvement every 137 minutes for Atalanta in Serie A this season

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Much was expected of the 22-cap Italy international upon his arrival at the London Stadium from Sassuolo for £35.5million in 2022.

However, Scamacca scored just eight goals in 27 appearances during his one and only season at the Hammers.

Only three of those strikes came in the Premier League, while injury meant he missed out on the club’s Conference League final triumph.

West Ham took a big hit to allow Scamacca to return to his homeland with Atalanta in 2023, where the striker has since returned to form.

The 27-year-old already has nine goals and three assists across all competitions this season, with two-thirds of his goals via Serie A.

Scamacca also struck in Atalanta’s Champions League win over Chelsea in December, which normally would have put many on notice.

Yet European football expert Brassell believes his stint at West Ham will diminish his chances of securing a big-money return to England.

“Atalanta have looked much improved under [coach Raffaele] Palladino recently,” Brassell told the Trans Europe Express podcast. “Of course, they beat Chelsea towards the end of the knockout stage to get themselves in this position.”

“They’ve got what is kind of a rare commodity in European football at the moment; an old-fashioned centre-forward who really looks the part,” Brassell continued.

“You know what? If he hadn’t failed at West Ham already, people would be looking at Gianluca Scamacca and the way he’s played over the last couple of months and thinking, ‘Yeah, some Premier League club is going to pick him up.’”

West Ham fans didn’t get to see Scamacca at his best

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Scamacca scored just three Premier League goals in his only season in England

West Ham’s striker issues

Scamacca is far from the first struggling West Ham striker to have reversed his fortunes since leaving the club.

Sebastian Haller became the Champions League’s top scorer despite managing just 10 goals in 48 Premier League games for the Irons.

Similarly, Niklas Fulkrug joined West Ham as a European finalist with Borussia Dortmund, but netted only three goals in 27 appearances.

His replacement, Pablo Felipe, a January signing, is now out injured, having not scored a Premier League goal in his five games in London.

On Scamacca, Brassell told talkSPORT.com: “I think people would judge him less harshly if he hadn’t picked up that ACL injury relatively soon after going to Atalanta because that made him sort of leave West Ham and then sort of fade from view.

Scamacca was far from the only striker who failed to impress at West Ham

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“But the way he’s played since he’s come back the way he’s played in the first half of this season he’s been really good. He’s looked dangerous.

“Everything he does in the game in terms of fighting defenders in terms of holding the ball up I look at him and I’m like if you didn’t know he’d been at West Ham and you just didn’t know who he was; if he was just some random player you’d think yeah this guy would do a great job in the Premier League if you had no idea of the history at all.

“With Scamacca, it’s not just about the fact that he can score goals consistently, and he’s scored a reasonable lick so far this season.

“It’s everything else he does in the game. He makes his teammates’ lives a hell of a lot easier, and there are so few centre-forwards in the game of this sort of level at the moment.

“So if it wasn’t for his age and injury history and the fact that he’d fallen at least partly flat on his face in the Premier League, people would be looking at him in an entirely different way.

“He’s a problem.”

‘Hard slog’ – Jesse Lingard warned over shock transfer to little-known side

Joe Brophy — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 09:22:24 +0000

Jesse Lingard has been told to draw out his negotiations with Remo to entice other Brazilian clubs into making an offer for him.

The 33-year-old has been warned that there are easier ways to earn money than signing for the little-known South American team, which would be the ninth of his professional career.

Lingard’s last club was FC Seoul

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The former England international has been a free agent since terminating his contract at South Korean side FC Seoul in December.

talkSPORT previously revealed that Lingard was likely to join another overseas club after failing to secure a return to West Ham.

The Hammers were among the Premier League clubs who rejected the chance to re-sign Lingard in the final days of the transfer window.

The 32-cap star was linked with a reunion with Raheem Sterling under ex-Manchester United star Robin van Persie at Feyenoord.

However, Lingard has since entered talks with Remo, who are winless in the opening three matches of the new Brazilian top-flight season.

Leo Azul only ended their 31-year absence from the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A last year and have also been in the third tier.

Lingard ‘in talks’ with Remo

South American football expert Tim Vickery told talkSPORT’s Hawksbee & Groves: “He’s in talks with a club called Remo, which means rowing loads of the big Brazilian clubs started life as rowing clubs.

“Anyway, it is a little bit left field.

“Remo are right up in the north of Brazil, Belem, which is actually the Portuguese translation of Bethlehem.

Lingard is currently a free agent but looks set to move to Brazil

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Relegation-threatened Remo have to travel hours for away games

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“There was once a Brazilian player who went to play there, and he said, ‘I am so honoured to be playing in the very place where [Jesus] Christ was born.’

“And it had to be explained that that really wasn’t the case. But anyway, what I wonder is going on here, because Remo are newly promoted and everyone expects them to go straight back down.

“Three rounds into the Brazilian championship, they’ve got two draws and a defeat. It’s a hard slog that you’re going there, Jesse Lingard.

“If you’re going to go there, it’s a hard slog. First, because you’re going to be battling against relegation all year.

“Secondly, because look at the map. Now, the heartland of Brazilian football is in the southeast. Rio, São Paulo, and Belo Horizonte.

“Remo, where they are, almost every away game is like a four-hour plane journey. Brazil is vast.”

Lingard could be hoping Remo’s domestic rivals hijack the deal

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“So there are easier ways to earn your money than signing for Remo,” Vickery continued.

“What I wonder, this is putting on my Dick Dastardly and his snickering hound hat, because what I would do in the circumstances is draw the negotiation out a little bit, see if anyone else comes through.

“Maybe there’ll be more Brazilian clubs…That’s what I would do in his situation.”

‘Make any team better’ – Leeds flop who left after 20 games told to join Premier League giants

Joe Brophy — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 08:51:11 +0000

Weston McKennie has been told he can ‘make any team better’ amid continued calls to return to the Premier League this summer.

The 27-year-old has revived his career at Juventus, but is out of contract at the end of the season and could become a free agent.

McKennie has reinvented himself as Juventus’ false nine in recent weeks

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The midfielder has scored seven goals and registered as many assists from 35 matches across all competitions for the Serie A giants this campaign.

He underlined his versatility while operating as a false nine in the Champions League this week, and assisting one of Teun Koopmeiners’ two strikes in Juve’s 5-2 playoff first-leg defeat against Galatasaray.

The Bianconeri remain keen to secure McKennie’s future, but the American holds the cards ahead of a home World Cup this summer.

The 62-cap international is a key part of Mauricio Pochettino’s squad, with an impressive tournament likely to increase his wage demands.

Wild West

Ex-USMNT star Tab Ramos has now said that his compatriot would ‘make any team better’, but wants him at a potential title contender.

He told GOAL: “I have to tell you, Weston McKennie is a player that can play anywhere – in any position on the field.

“Look at what he has done for Juve the last couple of months, they have had him everywhere – from right-back to centre mid, attacking mid.

“He always ends up in the box and is always dangerous. He has always made a difference.

“To be fair, Juventus’ recovery is partly on the shoulders of Weston McKennie; he has been that good for them.

“Would I like to see him go to the EPL? Juventus is another one of those clubs – you are talking about a great club all over the world.

McKennie has four goals and five assists in 24 Serie A games this season

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“I really think that Weston McKennie can make any team better,” Two-time MLS All-Star Ramos continued.

“I would personally like to see him back in the EPL playing for a club that is fighting for titles.”

Ell of a hard time

Juventus’ No.22 may be keen to prove his Premier League doubters wrong following his disastrous first spell in English football.

McKennie joined Jesse Marsch’s ‘American Revolution’ at Leeds in January 2023 on a six-month loan from Juventus.

However, he made just one appearance under Marsch before his countryman was fired – and soon things went from bad to worse.

McKennie ultimately managed just one assist in more than 1,400 minutes over 20 games as Leeds were relegated that May.

McKennie failed to score a single goal in 16 Premier League starts for Leeds

He bore the blame for the club’s demise, as he was booed and abused by the Elland Road faithful on the final match of the season.

Peterborough owner Darragh MacAnthony told talkSPORT that Leeds were relegated ‘because they signed half the U.S. national team, who weren’t very good’.

Gabby Agbonlahor went further, adding: “Weston McKennie at Leeds, no wonder they didn’t want to sign him permanently.

“I think he went back to Juventus a couple of hours after the game against Spurs.

“He was a poor signing, I don’t understand how he played so long at Juventus, he was very poor.”

Deal or no deal?

McKennie even admitted that he felt he ‘let people down’ months later, but three years later, he is now a player reborn.

McKennie was largely underwhelming during his stint at Leeds

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McKennie may now be ready for a second crack at the Premier League

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European football expert Andy Brassell told talkSPORT.com: “He has been pretty good this season.

“I guess the thing is with the sort of game that Weston McKennie’s got, he’s so busy and such an exciting player.

“He can cover a number of positions, he can contribute to the attack, he can take up a more defensive register.

“If he were put on the market tomorrow, a load of Premier League clubs would want him, I think.

“But I suppose the difficulty for Juventus now is that, really, they brought in the current football management to cut wastage and to cut costs.

“So clearly at the end of the season, there are going to have to be some players that go. So maybe, maybe he falls among those.”

European club raise cash from fans to try to sign veteran English National League star

Joe Brophy — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:35:18 +0000

A non-league star who made his name under Graham Potter at Östersunds is wanted back by the club – if fans pay his transfer fee.

English midfielder Curtis Edwards, who played for former Chelsea boss Potter in Sweden, is currently plying his trade at Gateshead.

Östersund are keen to bring Edwards back to the club, but need help from their fans

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The 32-year-old only joined The Tynesiders on a deal until the end of the season in September, after being released by Notts County.

Edwards has three assists in 18 National League appearances for Rob Elliot’s men, who sit rock bottom of the table after 29 matches.

The Middlesbrough-born star has now been the subject of an ambitious bid from his former club Östersunds.

ÖFK have even released a statement on their official website asking for help from fans to raise the funds needed to re-sign Edwards.

Östersunds Communications Manager Niclas Lidström confirmed to talkSPORT.com: “We have been talking to Curtis for some weeks and we thought that a Crowdfunding should be a good way of signing him.

“We have of course talk to Curtis about it and he knew that this is the way we work.

“Right now we have 125 000 SEK (£10,238.12) and the goal is 200 000 SEK (£16,411.60). We hope that we can fix this during the next days!”

Östersunds’ 200,000 SEK bid works out to 100 SEK for each of the club’s 2,000 fans, which made up their average crowd last season.

That is the equivalent of each supporter paying just over £8 sterling to help their club bring Edwards back to Sweden’s top-flight.

Edwards’ crowdfund has already passed the £10,000 mark

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Edwards moved to Gateshead following a stint at League Two side Notts County

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“Help us! An opportunity has recently opened up to bring former ÖFK player Curtis Edwards here,” a statement online read.

“An addition to the squad that could be crucial for the season. The club is informing you about this in advance because we need your help to get him here.

“Since this is a player acquisition that was initially not intended or budgeted for, we need to do what we can together to bring Curtis Edwards home to Jämtkraft Arena and Östersunds.

“Now we are gathering strength and making this acquisition possible!

“Help us get the next dream signing to the player squad! Any surplus will go to future strengthening of the player squad.

“Everyone who donates over 1500 SEK (£122.89) will be able to pick up their very own Curtis Edwards scarf in connection with the home [debut] in Superettan!”

Edwards played twice under Graham Potter against Arsenal in the Europa League Round of 32 in 2018

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Edwards spent much of his career playing in Sweden

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Who is Curtis Edwards?

Edwards came through Middlesbrough‘s academy but never played a senior game for his boyhood club.

He made his professional debut at Darlington and went on to spend nine years playing in Scandinavia.

Edwards starred for Östersunds under fellow Englishman Potter, and even featured twice for the club against Arsenal.

He also turned out for domestic rivals Djurgarden before moving to Norway, where he featured for Stabaek.

Former Gateshead manager Alun Armstrong described Edwards’ arrival as a ‘real coup’

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Edwards returned to England in 2023-24 to make 17 appearances for Woking in the National League and was signed by Notts County.

Yet he only made seven starts in 18 appearances in all competitions during his 14 months at Meadow Lane and is now at Gateshead.

Inter Milan told to sign Tottenham star despite Italy icon defending player he’d replace

Anton Stanley — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 15:22:51 +0000

Inter Milan have been told Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario should be ‘front row’ if they replace Yann Sommer in the summer.

That’s the view of Italy icon Walter Zenga, who also stuck up for the Swiss international at the San Siro.

GettyVicario has been in mixed form this season[/caption]

The 37-year-old’s form has oscillated this season, and there had been reports that manager Cristian Chivu was considering dropping him.

However, with his contract ending in the summer, Sommer is still seeing his future spoken about.

Serie A is a league well-regarded for its goalkeepers, with the Italy national team rarely without an elite option between the sticks.

One of those gargantuan glovesmen, Zenga, was asked about Sommer’s form, but insists he has no major concern.

“First of all, a premise: if we focus on a goalkeeper’s mistakes, we’ll never get over them. Yann is a high-performance player, a guarantee. He has experience and quality to spare,” he told Gazzetta dello Sport.

Asked further about what he liked about the veteran, he added: “Self-control. Nothing can affect him.”

With Sommer’s future in doubt, there is talk about who should replace him at the San Siro.

And Zenga, who made 473 appearances for Internazionale, has given his take on who should come in.

He responded: “With an Italian goalkeeper: Vicario and Marco Carnesecchi in the front row, then Elia Caprile.”

Vicario, a £17.2million signing, has been Tottenham’s No.1 since club legend Hugo Lloris left in 2023.

GettySommer helped Inter Milan reach the Champions League final last term, but has had the odd tough moment this season[/caption]

GettyZenga has also coached in both Italy and England in a lengthy career in the game[/caption]

After an incredibly strong start to life in north London, the Italian’s poor distribution and lack of physicality have caused him issues in England.

Meanwhile, a broken bone in his ankle saw him miss three months of action last season.

Carnesecchi is Atalanta’s star shot-stopper, making the No.1 spot his own in Bergamo over the last three campaigns.

Caprile, though, was once on the books at Leeds United without making a single appearance and is now coming to the fore at Cagliari.

Since leaving Elland Road in 2022, he’s played for Bari, Napoli, and Empoli, as well as the Sardinian side.

All three of those shot-stoppers linked with Inter by Zenga are in contention to be in Italy’s squad for their World Cup qualification play-off with Northern Ireland on March 26.

Free agent Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain completes Celtic transfer nine months after last competitive game

Amy Hamerslagh — Sat, 07 Feb 2026 16:01:03 +0000

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has joined Celtic on a free transfer nine months after his last competitive game.

The 32-year-old left Besiktas last summer following a mutual termination of his contract.

Oxlade-Chamberlain has been training with former club Arsenal since November

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Celtic sign Oxlade-Chamberlain

The former England international has joined the Hoops on a contract until the summer, with an option for a further year.

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill told the club’s website: “We are really pleased to bring Alex to Celtic.

“He still has so much to offer the game, and I am sure he can add another dimension to us with his great ability and wealth of experience in the game.

“Above all, he is passionate and excited about this move himself, so we are welcoming a great player who is hungry to help us achieve as much as we can.”

Speaking to Celtic TV, Oxlade-Chamberlain added: “It’s been a busy few days, but I’m delighted and really excited.

“Speaking with the manager, it just felt like the perfect fit for me, and I feel like I can come in and help out the lads.

“Just talking to the manager, and Shaun Maloney as well, who told the expectations on the club and what it means to play here, what our targets are and that he’s going to push me.

“That’s all the stuff I identify with, and that’s the environment I’ve always been in and been lucky enough to be in.

“It’s exactly what I need. I need another challenge and lucky enough at a massive club like this. And they can help me get back to where I need to get to and, more importantly, I need to help the team achieve the goals we want to do.”

View Tweet: https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeAlex?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

Andy Brassell believes the Ox still has plenty left in the tank

Oxlade-Chamberlain has been training with former club Arsenal in recent weeks in a bid to regain match fitness.

Having started his career at Southampton in 2009, he joined the Gunners in 2011 and then Liverpool in 2017, where he won the Premier League and Champions League.

He then joined Turkish Super League side Besiktas in 2023 and scored five goals in 50 appearances, winning the Turkish Cup in 2024.

He played under nine managers during his two years in Turkey, including Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, with none lasting more than 20 games.

His last senior football game before leaving in the summer was an 11-minute appearance against Adana Demirspor in May 2025.

Since then, Oxlade-Chamberlain played for Arsenal Under-21s in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Manchester United in December.

Arteta even refused to rule out a move to Arsenal for his former teammate.

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Celtic are currently sitting in third place in the Scottish Premiership, six points behind leaders Hearts.

European football expert Andy Brassell believes the player can be an instant hit for the current champions.

He said: “I saw him a couple of times out there in the flesh in the Turkish Super League, and I think it’s clear that there’s still a big player in there.

“I think he can get to a level where he can be massively influential for Celtic quite quickly.

“He scored the winner against Fenerbahce, and he was someone who could still run all day, he could still cover a number of midfield positions, he’s still got great craft.

Oxlade-Chamberlain will now look to revitalise his career north of the border

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Oxlade-Chamberlain won the Champions League in 2019 with Liverpool against Tottenham

“A lot of the reason it didn’t work for him at Besiktas was circumstantial, and he was seen really as a symbol of a regime gone wrong, of a transfer policy gone wrong. None of that was really his fault.

“He was cast out because all of a sudden, they weren’t in a position to be chasing trophies, and he was still getting paid a lot of money.

“He was diligent, hard-working, there was still plenty of quality there. But he was just in a situation where, having been in clubs that were contending for stuff all his life, all of a sudden, he was in this completely dysfunctional situation where there was only a limited amount that he could do.”

“So I feel there’s plenty left in the Oxlade-Chamberlain tank.”

Celtic made three loan signings on transfer deadline day.

Striker Junior Adamu joined from Freiburg, winger Joel Mvuka from Lorient and defender Benjamin Arthur from Brentford.

‘No truth’ – Dele Alli return to former club ruled out but shock LaLiga strugglers offer lifeline

Joe Brophy — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 14:34:33 +0000

Dele Alli won’t be returning to MK Dons, according to head coach Paul Warne, but four clubs in Spain are keen on throwing him a lifeline.

The 29-year-old has been without a club since having his contract at Serie A side Como terminated at the start of September.

Dele is still one of the most high-profile free agents on the market after leaving Como

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The former Tottenham and Everton star lasted just eight months in Italy and made only one appearance under Cesc Fabregas last season.

However, his first competitive appearance in 748 days ended after just nine minutes as he was shown a straight red card last March.

Having not featured at all since playing for Turkish club Besiktas in February 2023, Dele came off the bench in Como’s 2-1 defeat to AC Milan, but was sent off in stoppage time for fouling England team-mate Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

He was then left on the fringes by Como manager Fabregas as a result, and his 18-month deal was terminated last summer.

Reports from Italy claimed Dele was contemplating retirement, but the 37-cap England international soon cast those rumours aside.

The attacking midfielder has since been linked with a return to MK Dons, the club where he made his professional debut aged 16.

‘No truth’ to Dele Alli return to MK Dons

Dele scored 24 goals in 88 appearances for the Dons, who currently sit just two points behind the League Two automatic promotion places, before making his move to Spurs in 2015.

But EFL boss Warne shot down those reports, telling the Citizen: “I haven’t heard anything about that.

“There is absolutely no truth to it, unless I leave here and the owner pulls me aside!

“I’ve heard nothing, I’ve not spoken to him, we don’t know each other, we don’t have phone numbers, there’s no text banter.

Milton Keynes-born Dele came through the youth ranks at the Dons and made his debut as a 16-year-old

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“I’ve not seen him on the training pitch, he’s not asked to come and walk my dog!

“If you want to come here, it doesn’t matter if you’re one of the best players this club has ever had; you’ve still got to at least try and get on my good side!

“I don’t know who started that rumour, but it’s crazy season.”

Dele is now back to the drawing board when plotting his next move, having endured several challenges in his attempts to revive his career.

European football expert Andy Brassell exclusively told talkSPORT.com that Como was just entirely the wrong club for him.

Dele – making his first appearance in 748 days – was shown a red card minutes into his comeback

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‘Dele in Italy should have worked’

Dele cultivated a reputation as one of England’s most promising young players at Spurs, winning the PFA Young Player of the Year award in both 2016 and 2017, before being an integral part of the team that reached the club’s only Champions League final in 2019.

Yet months after that 2-0 defeat to Liverpool, his manager, Mauricio Pochettino, left the Lilywhites, and his career started unravelling.

He moved to Everton in 2022, but managed just 13 appearances for the Toffees, following a succession of injuries and off-field issues.

Prior to joining Como, Dele had not played competitive football for nearly two years since appearing in a 0-0 draw against Antalyaspor in February 2023 while on loan at Besiktas.

That July, he detailed his harrowing childhood trauma that curtailed his rise during an emotional interview with Gary Neville, but he looked to be on the comeback trail when he signed for Como in January 2025.

The sky looked like the limit for Dele after he hit the ground running at Spurs

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“If you look at Dele in Italy, it should have worked, or at least should have had a good chance of working,” Brassell told talkSPORT.com.

“Because if you look at so many of the players who’ve gone off course in the Premier League, where they’ve been able to rebuild themselves in recent years in Italy.

“I guess the difference is he was coming out of an incredibly difficult personal situation and a lot of pressure. And he’s had a long time dealing with injury.

“I think the other problem, really, is that Como was completely the wrong club for him, because if you look at how Como are built, it’s around, mainly around young players.

“He was only ever signed as the understudy to Nico Paz. That’s what Cesc Fabregas said. Now, Paz is one of the best players in the league, and you’re never getting past him – So, you’re never getting a game.

“So, it’s really difficult. You need to find yourself that sort of middling place where you’ve got a chance of playing games.

Dele never made another appearance for Como after returning from suspension

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“And if you can never get in the team, how are you ever going to recover your optimum form and fitness?

“There was a glass ceiling for him that he obviously couldn’t get past.”

Dele Alli next club: LaLiga transfer?

Spanish football has been touted as a possible landing spot for Dele, who has played professionally in England, Turkey and Italy.

Real Oviedo (20th), Sevilla (15), Elche (13) and Getafe (17) are all said to have been in touch over potentially offering out a short-term deal.

Brassell added to talkSPORT: “Now, if we assume that Dele Alli was still keen to be and able to be a top-level footballer, I think those clubs in Spain are the sort of level where he should be pitching.

“Obviously, at his very best, he could do a good job for any of those.

Dele has not been seen for a long time

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“Now, I think Sevilla is an interesting one because you look at them and they’re a club with enormous success in the 21st century.”

Sevilla an ‘interesting’ choice for Dele

“It’s a great place to play football,” Brassell continued. “The fans are brilliant. The stadium is brilliant. A bit old-fashioned, but brilliant.

“They are a long way off getting themselves back into Europe. So, that removes that sort of pressure, I suppose…

“The sort of peace and quiet that you get to get on with it, that’s something he didn’t genuinely have at Como, because Como are a big noise, they’re an interesting new project, they’re aiming to be very international, and they’re succeeding in that as well.

“And they’ve got Cesc Fabregas in charge. All of those things mean he can’t really do what he needed to do quietly.

MK have denied any interest in a fairy-tale comeback for their greatest academy talent

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“Whereas I think if you look down at those other clubs, where you look at Elche or Getafe, where Mason Greenwood, of course, rebuilt himself in very different circumstances for very different reasons.

“To me, I think you’re getting less scrutiny, which is potentially helpful.”

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain ‘massively influential’ but little-known rule risks immediate Celtic disappointment

Joe Brophy — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 12:57:22 +0000

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is unlike other free agents looking to return to top-level European football – he still has plenty left in the tank.

That is the opinion of European football expert Andy Brassell, who believes the ex-England star can become an instant hit at Celtic.

Oxlade-Chamberlain has been training with former club Arsenal since November

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Hoops manager Martin O’Neill confirmed earlier this week that he has held talks with Oxlade-Chamberlain over a move to Scotland.

The 32-year-old is a free agent after leaving Besiktas last summer, so he is available to join a new club outside the transfer window.

However, Oxlade-Chamberlain will need to be signed before Friday should he wish to play for his new team in Europe this season.

Oxlade-Chamberlain in race against time to join Celtic amid UEFA deadline

The Hoops are said to be in advanced talks with the 35-cap England international over completing the move to Glasgow.

While he could prove hugely influential in Celtic’s bid to overhaul Hearts’ six-point lead in the Scottish Premiership, he may not be able to feature in their upcoming Europa League play-off ties against Stuttgart.

Celtic have until 11pm on Thursday night to register new eligible players for the knockout games, which include the play-offs.

Oxlade-Chamberlain’s last appearance at senior level was an 11-minute cameo in the Turkish giant’s win over Adana Demirspor in May 2025.

The midfielder has since kept up his fitness by training with Arsenal, having spent six years at the club in his early career.

Oxlade-Chamberlain played for the Gunners’ U21s in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Manchester United in December.

Can new signings play in the league or knockout phase of the Europa League?

The Uefa rule in question states: “After the completion of the league phase and before the start of the knockout phase, a club may register a maximum of three new eligible players for the remaining matches in the current competition.

“Such registrations must be completed by 5 February 2026 (24:00 CET) at the latest.”

Andy Brassell believes the Ox still has plenty left in the tank

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta even refused to rule out a move for his former teammate after Mikel Merino sustained a broken foot.

Several of Oxlade-Chamberlain’s old England pals similarly face a challenge of returning to elite football following a long layoff.

Jesse Lingard is a free agent after spending the past two years playing in South Korea, while Raheem Sterling is without a club following the termination of his contract with Chelsea.

Meanwhile, Paul Pogba has managed just 30 minutes across three substitute appearances at Monaco since making his comeback from his two-year drugs ban in November.

The former Man United superstar has since missed the last nine games in all competitions with a calf injury.

However, football expert Brassell told talkSPORT.com that Celtic shouldn’t be fearful of Oxlade-Chamberlain suffering a similar fate.

Pogba has faced numerous challenges in rebuilding his fitness after years out of the game

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‘He can be massively influential for Celtic quite quickly’

“Oxlade-Chamberlain has been a viable first-team player more recently,” he argued in contrast to other notable free agents.

“Part of the reason he got shifted from Besiktas was because it wasn’t the ideal personal situation for him, with obviously his family staying at home.

“It was also the fact that Besiktas had fallen well, well short of expectations over the last couple of years, having spent a lot of money and having spent a fair bit of money on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s wages, of course.

“I saw him a couple of times out there in the flesh in the Turkish Super League, and I think it’s clear that he’s still a big player in there.

“I think he can get to a level where he can be massively influential for Celtic quite quickly. And that is the massive difference, I think, between him and Dele [Alli] and Pogba.”

Oxlade-Chamberlain has tested himself against Arsenal stars like Eberechi Eze

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Ex-Arsenal and Liverpool man Oxlade-Chamberlain spent two seasons in the Turkish Super Lig in his first venture abroad.

The Englishman made 30 first-team appearances during his maiden campaign and helped Besiktas win the Turkish Cup.

That trophy triumph earned the club a spot in the Europa League for last season before being frozen out of the team by then-manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst, who is now Arne Slot’s assistant at Anfield.

Oxlade-Chamberlain played under nine managers in his 24 months in Turkey, including Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, with none lasting more than 20 games.

“Even after he was deposed from the first team the first time, he came back and was really influential,” Brassell added.

“You think when Solskjaer first came in, he was a big player for him then. He influenced big games.

Oxlade-Chamberlain scored five goals in 50 appearances in Instanbul

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He welcomed his second child with Perrie Edwards of Little Mix fame last month

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Besiktas fallout ‘not Oxlade-Chamberlain’s fault’

“He scored the winner against Fenerbahce, and he was someone who could still run all day, he could still cover a number of midfield positions, he’s still got great craft.

“So for me, for him to take the leap to where he’s an influential player is not that much of a leap all over again.

“He was cast out because all of a sudden, they weren’t in a position to be chasing trophies, and he was still getting paid a lot of money.

Oxlade-Chamberlain mutually agreed to terminate his contract at Besiktas in August

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill would be ‘very interested’ in signing the former Liverpool and Arsenal midfielder

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“So they needed to move him on from there. So a lot of where he fell short of Besiktas was not his fault.

“He still performed creditably in very, very difficult situations in some cases. The last time I saw him play in the flesh, they were getting beaten 5-0 at home by a Club Brugge in the Europa League.

“And he still played really well. He still had a really good influence on that game despite the fact that the team was a shambles.

“So I feel there’s plenty left in the Oxlade-Chamberlain tank.”

Chelsea’s ‘Ecuadorian Foden’ taken backwards loan in contrast to Man City’s ‘next Messi’

Joe Brophy — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:33:58 +0000

Premier League starlets Kendry Paez and Claudio Echeverri have both taken a step back with their respective loan moves this window.

That is the verdict of South American football expert Tim Vickery, who shared his surprise at the struggles of the £30million pair.

Kendry Páez failed to impress Liam Rosenior on loan at Strasbourg

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The Chelsea and Manchester City youngsters have each flattered to deceive under the weight of early comparisons to Lionel Messi.

Paez, who burst onto the scene as the youngest debutant and scorer in the Ecuadorian top flight, agreed a deal to join the Blues in 2023.

However, the teenager didn’t officially complete his £17.5m switch to Stamford Bridge until after his 18th birthday last summer.

He linked up with Chelsea‘s squad at the Club World Cup, but failed to make a single matchday squad as his new club won the tournament.

Paez, whose former club, Independiente del Valle, also produced Moises Caicedo, joined partner club Strasbourg on loan in July.

The attacking midfielder, likened to Messi by former footballer Carlos Tenorio, managed just four starts across 15 Ligue 1 appearances under current Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior and his successor, Gary O’Neil.

His loan move was terminated at the start of the year, and Paez will spend the rest of the season at Argentine giants River Plate.

“This is proof that things aren’t going as hoped and expected,” South American football expert Vickery told talkSPORT’s H&J on Thursday.

“He’s 18. He is a kind of Ecuadorian Phil Foden. He burst on the scene, he was scoring goals at 15 in club football. At 16, he was playing and scoring for Ecuador in World Cup qualification.

“There are enormous hopes, but the last 18 months or so, they haven’t been good.”

Páez made just one appearance as a 90th-minute sub since O’Neil took charge

Chelsea wonderkid joins River Plate on loan

Vickery continued: “Obviously, Mr Rosenior knows all about him from his time at Strasbourg, all about his progress or lack of it.

“There’s no doubt about it – It is a step backwards. You want to get him adapted to European football.

“It’s a step backwards to loan to River Plate…It’s a good club to go to. It’s a massive stadium.

“It’s the biggest capacity stadium in South America, and they’re going to make it bigger. They’re going to make it over 100,000.

“It’s a club that loves good football. They’re not in the Champions League this year, the Libertadores, but hopefully, if he’s taking one step back in the long term, it will be two steps forward.”

Kendry Páez was described as an ‘Ecuadorian Phil Foden’

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The teenager has now returned to South America for the rest of the season

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Man City’s Echeverri ‘a massive talent’

Ironically, Paez’s fellow South American, Echeverri, left River Plate at the same age he has now joined on loan when he signed for City.

Pep Guardiola‘s men beat out interest from Chelsea for the Argentina U23 international, who similarly was touted as another Messi regen.

Unlike Paez, who has never made a competitive appearance for Chelsea, Echeverri made three appearances for Man City last season.

He was handed a surprise debut in the FA Cup final defeat to Crystal Palace and then scored his first goal for the club during a 6-0 win over UAE side Al-Ain at the Club World Cup.

Echeverri spent the first half of the campaign on loan with Bayer Leverkusen, who sacked Erik ten Hag after two league games.

Echeverri proved a real bright spark for City at Wembley after coming on

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His form at the Club World Cup hinted at big things to come this season

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He started just three times across 11 appearances in all competitions, the last of which was in a 2-2 Champions League draw with Newcastle.

Echeverri sealed a switch to Girona two weeks ago, who became part of the global City Football Group (CFG) network in 2017.

Asked if the move was a surprise, Vickery added to talkSPORT: “A little bit, yes…I thought, and I hoped that he’d get more of a go at City.

“You remember when he came on, he made his debut in the FA Cup final. There were things happening straight away.

Echeverri struggled to break into Leverkusen’s starting XI

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The Argentine will now look to rebuild his reputation in LaLiga with Girona

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“Electric little buzzsaw of a figure. He scored for City in the Club World Cup in the summer.

“Then it was a surprise to me that they loaned him to Germany. It hasn’t worked out there.

“He’s gone to Spain. I think he’s a massive talent. Hopefully, again, this is a case of step back to take steps forward in the future.

“I think he’s got something. I think he’s really, really talented.”

Liverpool made ‘massive’ transfer mistake but can fix it for triple the money this summer

Joe Brophy — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:26:29 +0000

Liverpool have been told to make a signing before the window closes – but one former target could have already solved a major issue.

Arne Slot splashed £450million on transfers after winning the Premier League title, but the Reds now sit in sixth in the table.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot needs reinforcements to fix the club’s current crisis

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The defending champions are 14 points behind leaders Arsenal and out of the Champions League places for next year as things stand.

The Reds are in the midst of an injury crisis, headlined by record signing Alexander Isak, who has had surgery on an ankle injury.

Giovanni Leoni suffered an ACL injury on his debut for the club in September, while Conor Bradley is also out for the rest of this season.

Both Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez have been absent in recent weeks, with Jeremie Frimpong then pulling up against Qarabag.

On any potential incomings before deadline day, the Athletic’s James Pearce told talkSPORT’s Inside Liverpool: “At the moment, there’s still no sign of the club’s stance changing.

“I think some people thought at the start of the month that they’re just keeping their cards close to the chest when a lot of the reporters on this patch kind of wrote that it was fully expected to be a quiet window.

“They pointed to just how much Liverpool had spent last summer and also a belief that the players that Liverpool feel they want aren’t available now, certainly not at the kind of price they’d be willing to pay.

“So they were going to sit tight, over the course of the month, with the injury situation that’s obviously been compounded by Ibrahima Konate’s compassionate leave after the loss of his father.

“It’s just cranked up that scrutiny, hasn’t it, especially as you said on the defensive options, with five defenders missing now.

Liverpool’s absentee list has seen Ryan Gravenberch have to play at centre-back

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“But I’d be surprised, just because I think Liverpool don’t really go down the route of short-term fixes.

“The last time they did that [Ozan Kabak and Ben Davies], that didn’t really work out too well, did it? You throw into the mix when they kind of panicked with the deadline approaching, and signed Arthur Melo on loan.

“It’s a lovely idea to go and get someone on loan, go and get a body, but they’ve got to be good enough, and the reality is, there’s not many players of the calibre who clubs around Europe are willing to let go at this point.

“It’s still possible something could happen if, like, a market opportunity opens up.”

Liverpool have previously been warned that failure to dip into the transfer market in January means risking derailing their season.

However, European football expert Andy Brassell told talkSPORT.com that the club have already made a mistake in not signing Manu Kone.

Dominik Szoboszlai has also been deployed regularly at right-back to leave a void in midfield

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Kone to Liverpool transfer

The 24-year-old was earmarked as Liverpool’s ideal alternative to Jude Bellingham in 2023 ahead of Jurgen Klopp‘s midfield rebuild.

In fact, Tony Cascarino even claimed that a transfer for the then-Borussia Monchengladbach ace was all but a done deal.

Liverpool instead signed Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch, and Wataru Endo as Kone joined Roma a year later.

“Of course, he was linked with Liverpool before when he was still at Borussia Mönchengladbach, and a lot of people seemed to think it was a done deal at a certain point,” Brassell revealed to talkSPORT.

Liverpool had Kone as a key alternate target to Bellingham, who joined Real Madrid in 2023

Slot has since tried and failed to sign Martin Zubimendi before playing Gravenberch at No.6

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“He had a few choices when he left Mönchengladbach, going back to the summer of 2024.

“Given that the first half of his first season at Roma was an absolute bin fire in between [Daniele] De Rossi getting fired, Ivan Juric coming in, and that being a total mess, and eventually [Claudio] Ranieri bringing some sort of calm to it, the fact that he stood out as a player of quality and a real character in that season was notable.

“He made it work because he’s such a mentally strong player. He’s so versatile, he’s incredibly athletic, and he will run all day.

“Funnily enough, a little bit like Michael Olise when he came into the French team, Manu Kone notably for the last Nations League campaign, which he was excellent in by the way, again when things were still a bit dicey at Roma.

“There’s this sense of it’s only when he got in the team that you’re realising, ‘Oh actually, maybe France were missing this kind of guy.’

Kone has started all 22 of Roma’s Serie A matches, but has now suffered a minor injury

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“Now, N’Golo Kante been out of the picture for a bit, Adrian Rabiot’s been moved to a few clubs, and he’s getting older.

“He’s a different player to either of those [Kante and Rabiot], and he’s played in a slightly more advanced role for Roma recently.

“Not out and out attacking, but a bit more box to box rather than just defensive. He’s so good at driving a team up the pitch. He’s a good dribbler. He wants to be involved; he makes lots of tackles.”

Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini admitted earlier this season that if Kone scored more, he probably would not be playing for the club.

He is expected to attract serious interest this summer

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How can Roma keep him? He is ‘that good’

“Really, if you’re a Roma fan, you want him to be a cornerstone of your team for the next 8-10 years,” Brassell continued.

“But the reality is, Roma’s financial situation is not incredible. Really, what does that mean?

“That means that if he goes to the World Cup and plays as well as he has been for France on many occasions, and if he plays as well as he has been consistently for Roma, how can they keep him?

“So I think that is the pertinent question. They bought him for a touch over €20m. If he has a good World Cup, they can triple that.

“I don’t think there’s any doubt about that because he is that good. That would be really tough for Roma.”

Liverpool transfer mistake

Kone, who has scored two goals with one assist in 29 appearances, will have another chance to move to England this summer.

And Trans Europe Express co-host Brassell wouldn’t rule Liverpool out of reigniting their interest in him, having missed out the first time.

“I think he would have been a massive hit for Liverpool,” he added to talkSPORT.com. “Obviously, they might have used him in a particular way, but we’ve seen how Arne Slot has got other players in to adapt.

“Then again, it does seem as if they’ve missed that bit of pep in midfield this season, that bit of bite, really, which is what Manu Kone is all about.

“If you’re asking, would he have been a good signing for them for £20-25 million, it’s a no-brainer, really.

Kone has earned 12 caps for France and is set to be part of their World Cup squad

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Liverpool to reignite interest in Kone

“He just adapted to Serie A and adapted to propping the team up as if it had been there forever.

“The sort of shift and the sort of effort and the sort of commitment and sort of, deep in your head when all else around you are losing theirs, you would expect from a player who’s eight to ten years older than him, with a lot more experience in that league and in that club.

“He would have been a massive success for Liverpool.

“I wouldn’t rule out Liverpool coming back for him. We know there’s a lot of people in the building who like him.

“Ultimately, if you want to step up, you need the best players, don’t you? That’s clearly an area in which Liverpool needs help.”

Listen to the latest episode of talkSPORT’s Inside Liverpool show on YouTube.

‘Makes enormous sense’ – Arsenal urged to sign striker wanted by Premier League rivals

Joe Brophy — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 09:07:57 +0000

Arsenal have been urged to firm up their interest in Karl Etta Eyong amid fears over their faltering Premier League title challenge.

The Gunners, as well as Manchester United and Chelsea, have scouted the Levante striker this season, as talkSPORT revealed in November.

Eyong’s flying start to the season had him only behind Mbappe for goal contributions

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None of the trio have made a meaningful move for the Cameroon international yet, but West Ham did make an initial enquiry.

Earlier this month, talkSPORT confirmed that Barcelona are actively exploring new forward options with Robert Lewandowski set to become a free agent in June, and Eyong is on their radar.

However, European football expert Andy Brassell believes the latter is ‘a really Arsenal type of forward’ that would work for Mikel Arteta.

Eyong, a £2.5million arrival last summer, has nine goal contributions in LaLiga, all of which came within the first ten gameweeks.

Eyong stats and style of play

By mid-November, the 22-year-old was only behind Kylian Mbappe in terms of output in the Spanish top-flight, before experiencing a drought as Levante tumbled into the relegation zone.

Despite this, Brassell told talkSPORT.com: “He’s been really good.

“Levante have been in the relegation zone for pretty much all of the season, [but] Eyong is able to stand up in the biggest games and make an impact in those biggest games.

“It would be a big leap going from Levante and doing pretty well there, to being productive at Arsenal, because at the moment, despite the defeat to [Manchester] United, Arsenal are so good that you’re looking at only the very, very best being able to crack that team, really.”

Eyong has attracted interest from Barcelona as well as Premier League giants

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Karl Etta Eyong to Arsenal

Eyong’s six LaLiga goals this campaign represent a better output than every Arsenal player in the Premier League.

Viktor Gyokeres and Leandro Trossard have managed just five, one ahead of Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Mikel Merino, and Eberechi Eze.

On how Eyong would fit in, Brassell added: “As a medium-term prospect, I could definitely see him working for Arsenal.

“Why? I think he’s a really Arsenal-type forward. One of those guys who could fit in a few different places over the front three.

“I think you could see him contributing from a wide position. He can drop inside and score goals as well.”

Eyong was part of the Cameroon side that reached the AFCON quarter-finals

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Eyong to Arsenal ‘makes enormous sense’

“He’s not massive, but he’s good in the air,” Brassell continued.

“There are so many elements that recommend him, not just as a Premier League player, but as an Arsenal player.

“In terms of Arsenal getting someone like him and stashing him for the future, I think it would make an enormous amount of sense.”

Arsenal, like the rest of Eyong’s suitors, will have to wait until the summer to officially make their move for the young striker.

Levante’s No.21 had already played and scored for Villarreal this season prior to joining the club’s domestic rivals.

Eyong played alongside a former Arsenal player, Nicolas Pepe, at Villarreal

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His transfer to Levante after his season had begun has prevented any potential January move

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As a result, he won’t be able to make another move in January, as players are blocked from playing for three clubs in one season.

This may come as a huge blow to Arsenal, who have failed to win any of their past three league games and could use the extra firepower.

On the title race, Inside Gooners host Harry Symeou said: “City are not showing at the moment that they can go on that kind of run, but you know in the back of your mind that they could do it.

“And that’s why I’m still a little bit anxious and nervous about it and why I won’t say, even when we were seven points clear, that it was done because there’s that within them.

“With Aston Villa, I don’t think Aston Villa have what it takes. But it’s the fear of it being Unai Emery that makes it worse for me.

Arteta is expected to overhaul his front line this summer

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“There’s this thing that keeps happening every time we play them or we drop points to them where people start to become really revisionist and say ‘he should have stayed’ and ‘he should have had more time’.

“He’s absolutely the right manager for Villa. He wasn’t the right manager for Arsenal. That is (a) fact. And that’s my worry about them.”

“I do wonder with him, does he get a little bit further in the Europa League, though, and go ‘right, this is my thing’.

“Does he start to prioritise (the Europa League) in a way that sees them drop off in the league.

“That’s part of the reason why I’m not as fearful of them still at this stage.”

Liam Rosenior eyes Chelsea reunion with ex-Premier League defender now starring in new role

Joe Brophy — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 08:12:48 +0000

Gary O’Neil is reaping the rewards as manager of Strasbourg from one of Liam Rosenior’s former protegees – but it may not be for long.

Valentin Barco has undergone a dramatic transformation in Alsace from a flying full-back into one of Ligue 1’s top young midfielders.

Barco has played in midfield for both of O’Neil’s first two Ligue 1 matches

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The 21-year-old was once tipped as Brighton’s ‘next £100million player’ upon his arrival at the Amex in January 2024.

Barco signed for the Seagulls for £7.87m on a four-and-a-half-year deal, having been scouted by Manchester United and Man City.

The then left-back initially hinted at living up to the hype during his first six months in England, after impressing against the Red Devils, Pep Guardiola‘s men, and indeed, Chelsea.

Valentin Barco: FPL favourite to Strasbourg playmaker

Pervis Estupinan underwent surgery in April 2024, which hinted at Barco being Brighton’s first-choice for the start of the 24/25 season.

The one-cap Argentinian international started the final pre-season friendly under Fabian Hurzeler before the Premier League restarted.

The hype around Barco became so huge that nearly 25 per cent of FPL managers selected him in their squads ahead of the season.

He became the most owned defender in the £4.0million price bracket, and yet was sent on loan to Sevilla after Gameweek 2.

Six months later, Barco was then loaned to Strasbourg and helped Rosenior’s men qualify for this campaign’s Conference League.

The 5ft 7in starlet completed a permanent switch to ‘Le Racing’ last July, where he has since continued to go from strength to strength.

Barco looked to be Brighton’s latest South American gem upon his 2024 arrival

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The former FPL favourite ultimately made just seven appearances for the club

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Barco stats and Chelsea transfer latest

The Argentine has scored one goal and registered four assists in 17 Ligue 1 appearances under Rosenior and now O’Neil this season.

He is joint top for big chances created with nine alongside former Chelsea man Diego Moreira, another of Rosenior’s success stories.

At Strasbourg in Ligue 1 this season, Barco also ranks first for ball touches (1271) and second for successful passes (812).

Out of possession, he sits second in the club’s charts for contests won (18), total distance covered (178.29 km), and successful tackles (22).

Even more impressively, those stats come despite Barco missing two Ligue 1 matches through suspension and illness late last year.

Barco found a new lease of life under Rosenior

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‘Barco was such an important player for Rosenior’

Barco has started all three matches of O’Neil’s tenure, but a further ban has ruled him out of facing Paris Saint-Germain this Sunday.

And that might be a window into what’s to come, with Chelsea interested in signing yet another of their BlueCo affiliate players.

On Barco’s change into a midfield force, European football expert Andy Brassell told talkSPORT: “It’s come from Liam Rosenior, actually.

“I think it really underlines how good Rosenior is with individual players.

“What he’s been able to do to Moreira, Barco, who I know they’re interested in. I know Chelsea and Rosenior are interested in him.

BlueCo, the group that owns Chelsea and Strasbourg, are no stranger to moves between the two clubs

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Rosenior now could take one of his former proteges to Stamford Bridge

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“And actually, to a growing extent, I think you can say Martial Godo, who’s been increasingly good in the last couple of months.

“But it’s interesting when you look at a fullback who’s as good on the ball as Barco.

“It’s kind of a relatively simple thing to get him to play this inside left sort of role, quite similar to probably Raphaël Guerreiro’s best spot, actually. He still plays left-back for Portugal, but that’s just because no one else will do it, really.

“I think, really, if you look at him, he’s best used in midfield because he’s such a good passer of the ball, because he’s such an intelligent runner, because he can even get in the box and score goals.

“All those sorts of things, you’d rather him be a little higher up the pitch.

“Barco was such an important player for Rosenior that even before the speculation, to me it seemed obvious that he’s the player, every coach wants a player who can run things for him.

“It’s a little bit like, if we’re going way back, Vincent Kompany going to Burnley and bringing Josh Cullen from Anderlecht. A guy who can interpret on the pitch what my sort of football wants to be.

“I spoke to a couple of the Chelsea players at NBA London, Joao Pedro and Malo Gusto, and they were both, well, it is way different under Liam Rosenior, and they seem to quite enjoy that and embrace it.

“But on the other hand, I think if you can have a player on the pitch that says, ‘Right, this is how we get organised, I think it’s enormously helpful.'”

Victor Moses joins 11th different club of his career in surprise free agent move

Anton Stanley — Sun, 25 Jan 2026 12:05:35 +0000

Victor Moses appears to have no intention of hanging up his boots anytime soon after he signed for the 11th club of his career.

A Premier League winner with Chelsea in 2017, he’s also played for Inter Milan, Liverpool, and West Ham, amongst others.

Moses saw his career revitalised as he won the title at Stamford Bridge as a right wing-back

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He spent last season in the EFL Championship with Luton Town but couldn’t help them avoid relegation to League One.

However, before he was even released, a source speaking to Africafoot suggested Moses was far from finished in the game.

They said: “He (Moses) hasn’t played much since the start of the year, that’s a fact we can’t ignore. But internally, the decision has been made: he will leave the club at the end of the season.

“He wants to finish his time here on a high note, so he remains focused and professional until the very end.

“His future will be determined very soon, but one thing is certain: he will not retire.”

The 35-year-old was then released in the summer but has only just found a new club and the location might surprise some.

Seven months on, Moses has now pitched up in Kyzylorda, Kazakhstan to sign for FC Kaysar.

The club said on Instagram: “The football club “Kaysar” officially announces the signing of an experienced midfielder Victor Moses.

“The former player of the Nigerian national team will defend the honor of the club from Kyzylorda in the new season.

“Victor Moses is a football player who has played for a number of European giants and is known for his high-level experience. His joining the team “Kaysar” is a clear proof of the team’s goals for the upcoming season.

Moses has been unveiled by Kaysar in Kazakhstan

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“The club management and coaching staff believe that Victor’s experience and skills will have a positive impact on the development of the team and the growth of young players.

“We wish Victor Moses good luck in the “Kaysar” team!”

In a brief address to fans at his unveiling, the versatile winger said: “Hi Kaysar fans. It is a pleasure to be here.”

And he added on Instagram: “Delighted to announced that I’ve joined FC Kaysar. Excited for what’s to come.”

The Kazakhstan Premier League side finished last season in 11th position, six points clear of relegated Turan in 14th.

Clubs in Kazakhstan are restricted to a maximum of 13 foreign players which, most teams use readily.

Moses also won two Europa Leagues with Chelsea

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However, Kaysar didn’t have one last year but have now added Moses to the arrivals of Thomas Jones from Chile, Serbian midfielder Nikola Cuckic, and Slovakian goalkeeper Adam Kovac.

They play at the Gani Muratbayev Stadium which has a modest capacity of 7,000 and was built in 1968.

While in Kyzylorda, Moses might want tot take in the Baikonur cosmodrome, or the memorial complex of Korkyt Ata, a legendary figure in Kazakhstan.

‘So good’ – Thiago Silva’s new teammate is £52m wonderkid wanted by Premier League giants

Joe Brophy — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 08:14:42 +0000

Porto have been warned that they will already face a fight to hold onto their latest wonderkid just weeks after signing him.

The Portuguese giants have been active in the winter market by landing 41-year-old Thiago Silva and a player 24 years his junior.

Silva, who played for Porto’s B team between 2004 and 2005, has now returned to the club

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Silva penned a six-month contract, with the option of a further year at Porto, days after he officially departed Brazilian club Fluminense.

The veteran defender’s first spell at ‘Tricolor’ ended in 2008 upon his move to AC Milan, the same year Oskar Pietuszewski was born.

17 years later, the pair both made their league debuts for Porto in a 1-0 win over Vitória Guimarães on Sunday, and each had an impact.

Silva played the full 90 minutes and kept a clean sheet, but Pietuszewski stole the headlines with a breathtaking cameo.

European football expert Andy Brassell admitted he was ‘really impressed’ in a glowing review of the teenage winger’s debut.

“You look at him coming over just before Christmas, 17 years old, he’s come from Poland, and you’re thinking, ‘OK, one for the future, here we go’,” he told talkSPORT.com.

“Then he comes on in the second part of the second half, away at Guimarães, maybe the most difficult game that Porto have had this season.

“Pietuszewski comes on, never played for them before, only 17, and changes the game.

“The way he stretches the play, he’s playing off the left, the way he dribbles, the way he attacks players, the way he actually gets through his defensive work when he’s not got the ball.

“What planet has this kid come from? It’s amazing, really.”

Pietuszewski’s dazzling debut

The Poland U21 international joined compatriots and former Premier League stars Jan Bednarek and Jakub Kiwior upon his Porto arrival.

Against Guimarães, he came on with the score goalless after 73 minutes and won a penalty from which Alan Varela scored the winner.

Pietuszewski then got the home side reduced to ten men late on after gliding past Telmo Arcanjo, who fouled him and was sent off.

“From the moment he’s arrived, he’s appeared super confident,” Brassell continued to talkSPORT.

“A part of that is he’s already got an excellent level of English, so he’s communicating with everyone in Portugal from day one, which really helps.”

Pietuszewski won a penalty and got an opponent sent off in his first outing

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Varela (left) scored from the spot but owed it all to his new teammate

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‘Already going to be hard to hold on to’

“But it’s interesting, because you think Francesco Farioli, as is his growing reputation, is such a win-now coach, that was what he was at Ajax, really.

“His vibe, Farioli, is that if you’re good enough, you’ll just play, and that’s it. And [Pietuszewski’s] made an enormous first impression.”

Earlier this month, Pietuszewski signed a three-year contract at Porto until January 2029 with a release clause of €60 million (£52m).

Brassell admitted: “I think, depending on how much he contributes between now and the end of the season, Pietuszewski is already going to be hard to hold on to, it feels, because he just looks so good already.”

Pietuszewski will continue his development at Porto after leaving his boyhood club

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The Poland U21 international is considered a generational talent

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Pietuszewski transfer news

Porto’s 77 had burst onto his new manager’s radar when he made his first-team debut for local club Jagiellonia at just 16 years old.

Pietuszewski came on as a substitute in a 3-0 away loss to Farioli’s Ajax in the second leg of the Europa League playoff round in 2024.

That connection may have played a part in the Polish starlet snubbing interest from Premier League giants to join Porto.

Arsenal, Chelsea and Man City were all reported to have sent senior scouts to watch Pietuszewski in action at the start of this season.

Pietuszewski, who boasted seven goals and two assists from the first half of the 2025/26 campaign, was also linked with Barcelona.

Pietuszewski has a release clause of €60m (£52m)

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Buying from the Portuguese league

English clubs are no strangers to buying youngsters in the Portuguese league, but with mixed results.

Vitinha and Fabio Silva both struggled to settle at Wolves, and Enzo Fernández is still trying to justify his £100m price tag.

However, Brassell argued: “Some players are just so instantly convincing. I’m just going off a cameo in one game here.

“I’m just dazzled by this. I’ve no idea what it will be worth.

“All I know is it’s as good as starts get, and also what you have to say is Porto, Sporting and Benfica are really, really good at marketing players and extracting maximum value.”

Chelsea told to sign Liverpool star over £67m transfer target who will ‘go to the top’

Joe Brophy — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 17:56:45 +0000

Chelsea have been told the two Premier League defenders they should have signed amid their interest in top target, Jeremy Jacquet.

The Blues are optimistic of bolstering their options at the back, but negotiations with Rennes over their first choice have proved tough.

Chelsea have to pay big to land France Under-21 international

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Jacquet has informed Rennes he would like to join Chelsea this winter, but the Ligue 1 side wants a record sale to sanction an exit.

Any deal for the 20-year-old, who is regarded as one of Europe’s most exciting young players, would need to surpass the £55million that the club earned from Jeremy Doku’s 2023 move to Manchester City.

Ironically, Pep Guardiola‘s side have already strengthened in central defence this January, by signing former Chelsea starlet, Marc Guehi.

And talkSPORT’s chief football correspondent, Alex Crook, is baffled as to why Stamford Bridge chiefs didn’t eye a potential homecoming.

Chelsea told to sign Konate from Liverpool

Chelsea, who made an enquiry for Virgil van Dijk in March last year, before the Dutchman signed a new two-year contract with Liverpool, were also urged to turn their attentions to fellow Reds defender Ibrahima Konate, who will become a free agent this summer as it stands.

Crook told talkSPORT Breakfast: “If they’re going to spend £60million on a defender, why don’t they go and get Ibrahima Konate from Liverpool?

“Someone who’s tried and trusted in the Premier League, because that’s what they really need.

“Why weren’t they in the conversation for one of their former players, Marc Guehi?”

Ibrahima Konate has made no progress on a new Liverpool contract

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Guehi has now joined Man City from Palace

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‘Brief from upstairs’

Fans concurred on talkSPORT’s Inside Chelsea when discussing the club’s move for Jacquet, with Matisse Armani saying: “We know that this team doesn’t need another young, inexperienced player to come into an already shaky back line and manage it and marshal it.

“That is a lot of pressure to put on him and his shoulders.”

“It’s not like we have a Thiago Silva or someone, you’re coming alongside that,” he continued.

“You’re coming alongside [Wesley] Fofana, inconsistent, injury-prone. [Trevoh] Chalobah, Tosin [Adarabioyo], [Benoit] Badiashile. This is not an environment to bring him into.”

Jason Cundy added: “The brief must be from upstairs.

Rosenior already has several young French defenders among his defensive options

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“I mean, [Paul] Winstanley and [Laurence] Stewart [Chelsea’s joint Co-Sporting Directors], certainly on social media, certain fans have got a huge amount of criticism.

“My instincts are that they’re being told, this is the profile of player we want to sign. Go and get the best 19- to 20-year-old players that you can find in this position.”

Chelsea view Jacquet as the perfect blend of youth and talent, while being capable of slotting straight into Liam Rosenior’s side.

“He’s totally in the zone of what Chelsea want,” European football expert Andy Brassell explained to talkSPORT.com.

Rennes remain keen to hold onto Jacquet this month, who has a contract that runs until 2029

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“He’s physically imposing, incredibly athletic, has improved on the ball a lot in the last year and a half as well, since his loan at Clermont.

“What Rennes are asking for is a lot. They’ve already rejected one 50 million euro offer.

“They’re looking for about 80, it seems. So that’s what, about £67-68 million. This is where big Premier League clubs are at now.

“They would rather bid and pay for players at the top level who have a really long future at the top level, who they feel that they can mould into something.

“So maybe players who are not there yet, but you can see the players they’re going to be, rather than the players they actually are at the moment.”

Rosenior will be acutely aware of his potential from his time in Ligue 1 with Strasbourg

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As previously reported, Jacquet has informed Rennes he wishes to join Chelsea, but such action is unlikely to shake the French side.

“They’re a wealthy club, they’re well-backed,” Brassell continued. “And I don’t think whatever fuss the player kicks up is really going to make a massive difference there.

“But he comes out of a generation of very, very good Rennes players as well. We’re talking about not just an exceptional academy, but an exceptional generation. So there is a real feeling that he’ll go all the way to the top.”

One of those included Jacquet’s former teammate, Jeanuël Belocian, who has played 90 minutes in the Bundesliga just once this season.

Brassell added to talkSPORT: “Belocian’s gone to Bayer Leverkusen, played very well in bits, had a couple of bad injuries as well.

“Staying at Rennes and learning your trade is not the worst thing in the world.”

Bournemouth risk repeating Tottenham and West Ham mistake with £30m ‘next Antoine Semenyo’

Joe Brophy — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:32:27 +0000

Bournemouth have been warned that a deal to sign their top choice to replace Antoine Semenyo might be happening a year too early.

The Cherries are in talks with Vasco da Gama over teenage winger Rayan Vitor and have made an opening offer, talkSPORT understands.

Bournemouth are interested in a move for Vasco starlet Rayan

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Vasco are looking to fetch €35million (£30m) for the 19-year-old, who is being eyed as the long-term replacement for Semenyo.

However, talkSPORT’s chief football correspondent Alex Crook has revealed that Andoni Iraola’s side values him much lower.

Ghana superstar Semenyo completed a £62.5m move to Manchester City this month, in what was a record sale for Bournemouth.

Who is Bournemouth target, Rayan?

Rayan is the latest jewel from the Vasco academy that has produced Romario, Chelsea’s Andrey Santos, and teammate Philippe Coutinho.

He scored 14 league goals in Brazil’s top-flight, with one assist in 34 games as the club finished two points outside the relegation zone.

The attacker has already hit the ground running in the first game of this year, scoring twice in a 4-2 win in the Campeonato Carioca.

Is he the Semenyo replacement?

“Yes and no,” South American football expert Tim Vickery told talkSPORT’s Hawsbee and Jacobs on Thursday. “He’s not direct.

“He’s less of a winger, I think. He’s less of a fly-past people, but he is very promising.

The Brazil U20 international is yet to earn a senior cap for his country

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Former Liverpool star Coutinho has been mentoring Vasco’s latest academy star

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“He was the big revelation of the Brazilian Championship last year. He’s a giant figure, a real strapping figure, left-footed.

“Been playing almost all of his football wide-right, cutting in. But during the course of a very successful year, he ended up moving inside, playing at centre-forward.

“Now, his back-to-goal game, I think, still needs a lot of work. He’s not the finished article.”

Another potential transfer flop?

Premier League clubs have become no strangers to taking an early punt on wonderkids from South America, with varied success.

Chelsea have been told that £56m starlet Estevao Willian can reach Eden Hazard levels of stardom following his move from Palmeiras.

Bournemouth are hoping to knock down Vasco’s £30m valuation for Rayan

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His ex-teammate, Luis Guilherme, failed to enjoy the same success at the Blues’ London rivals, West Ham, after his £25m arrival in 2024.

The 19-year-old was flogged to Sporting this month off the back of just 18 appearances for the Hammers, one start, and zero goals.

Tottenham have also been burned in the case of Alejo Véliz, who joined Spurs from Rosario Central for around £13m in August 2023.

The striker is now back on loan at the Argentinian side, having scored just one Premier League goal in eight appearances (all as a sub).

Vickery, who publicly warned Tottenham about moving for Véliz too early three years ago, has now voiced similar concerns over Rayan.

West Ham sold Luis Guilherme to Sporting this month

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GettyTottenham have been desperate to recoup some funds for Alejo Véliz[/caption]

‘I’d just be a little bit worried’

“I would be a bit worried about him moving now,” talkSPORT’s Vickery added on the latter. “I think he probably needs a little bit more.

“I know that people around him and his club coach think he probably needs a little bit more before he moves.

“We’ve seen the consequences of premature moves. The likes of Luis Guilherme at West Ham. Or Véliz at Tottenham, who is now negotiating with a Brazilian club.

Bournemouth have been warned about the consequences of a premature transfer

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“I would be a little bit worried about him, although the promise is huge. And it seems that what Bournemouth are doing to seduce Vasco, whose financial situation is not great, is you can retain a cut in him.

“The idea, obviously, is that he moves to England, he does well, and he’s sold on a profit. And Vasco can keep a stake in him and participate in that profit.

“So, we’ll see. I suspect that the money will talk. If Bournemouth really, really want him, I suspect the money will talk.

“For me, I’d just be a little bit worried. It might be happening six months or a year too early.”

Former Man United target on transfer hunt again just months after Premier League exit

Joe Brophy — Sun, 18 Jan 2026 12:54:16 +0000

Pervis Estupinan could find himself back on the transfer hunt again just months after leaving Brighton for AC Milan.

The Ecuadorian international defender signed a five-year contract upon completing a deal worth £17million including add-ons, in July.

Estupinan turns 28 later this month

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The 27-year-old’s move came after Manchester United held talks with Estupinan’s camp over a summer swoop for the left-back.

However, according to Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, his underwhelming performances have put his Milan future in doubt.

European football expert Andy Brassell told talkSPORT.com: “He hasn’t been hugely impressive.

“There’s been a doubt about him since a few games in, really.

“Max Allegri and his staff have been thinking, ‘Yeah, maybe the club’s made a bit of a mistake here.’ It feels like that.”

Estupinan’s future at Milan already in doubt

Estupinan made 104 appearances for Brighton across three seasons and helped the Seagulls qualify for the Europa League in 2023.

Yet he’s made just Serie A starts this campaign, and has been an unused substitute in three of Milan’s last five league matches.

Despite playing in a more attacking left-sided role, Estupinan hasn’t yet scored for his new club, and has just one assist – the same number of red cards he has received in red and black.

“It doesn’t feel as if he’s been trusted,” Brassell added. “But in the last couple of months, what’s really made the difference is Davide Bartesaghi.

Rise of Bartesaghi

Brassell explained to talkSPORT.com: “Bartesaghi’s still a teenager. He’s been enormously impressive. Really, really good.

“It’s tempting to say, although I don’t know if he’s been here at Milan long enough for us to really be able to say this, it’s tempting to say that Estupinan has been Sylvinho-ed by his Ashley Cole in Bartesaghi.

“Sometimes there’s a guy who just comes up from the ranks who, it turns out, is way better than you.

“And I wonder if that has happened with Estupinan. And it would be a shame because it was a big move for Estupinan to a very prestigious club.

20-year-old Bartesaghi has won the race to replace Theo Hernandez as Milan’s starting left-wing-back

“For Milan, it’s awkward because they paid a lot of money for him.

“If Real Madrid wanted to sell Dean Huijsen tomorrow, there would be a market in the Premier League.

“For Estupinan, I’m not convinced they’d get their money back. Or I’m not convinced they’d get all of it back.

“I’m sure they’d sell him to some Premier League team, but they’d probably be taking a 30-40 per cent cut on what they paid for him, having taken a while to piece a big deal together.

“And I guess if you asked a lot of match-going Milan fans, that would probably be the issue they have with the club at the moment.

They’ve got a good coach in Max Allegri, but the transfer policy, which has, of course, been a hostage of fortune to the fact that there’s been a bit of musical chairs upstairs, you look at some of the transfer business, and you can’t really see the logic in some of it.”

Estupinan made 30 Premier League appearances last year, scoring once and providing a single assist

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Milan shouldn’t be shopping in the Premier League

“Particularly for a club in Milan’s position, which has generally done quite sensible transfers, I would take Christian Pulisic out of what I’m about to say because he’s been very influential.

“But really, a club of Milan’s relatively modest means compared to the name of the club means they shouldn’t be habitually shopping in the Premier League.

“They shouldn’t be going to Brighton, who get good prices for everyone, really, and buying Estupinan.

“They probably shouldn’t be going to Chelsea and buying Nkunku. Even if Chelsea took a loss there, Milan paid upwards of 38 million euros. That’s a lot of money.”

Nkunku is attracting interest from other clubs but wants to stay at Milan

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talkSPORT understands that Fenerbahce are interested in signing Nkunku, who has just four goals in 14 Serie A games, in January.

However, the 28-year-old is believed to want to stay at AC Milan, despite his struggles since arriving from Stamford Bridge.

“When Igli Tare, the sporting director, said, ‘Oh, we believe in him, and we want him to succeed,’ what he kind of meant is we can’t afford for him to fail,” Brassell continued.

“So they kind of have to stick with him a little bit.

“Now, with Estupinan, because you’ve got someone in his position who’s so good and promises to be a future star for Milan over the next decade, maybe it’s a little bit more undeniable, but it’s a real shame for Estupinan.”

Arne Slot warned against signing ex-player who once said ‘Liverpool, no one else’

Joe Brophy — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 12:52:27 +0000

Arne Slot has been warned that Liverpool’s reported interest in one of his former players makes little sense.

The Reds would have envisaged a quiet January transfer window after a £446million summer spree before injury ravaged their squad.

Givairo Read has made no secret of his desire to join Liverpool

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Liverpool broke the British transfer record with the £116.5m arrival of Florian Wirtz, and then again when Alexander Isak joined for £125m.

However, the latter will be sidelined for months after undergoing surgery on an ankle injury, which included a fibula fracture.

He is one of several long-term absentees for Liverpool, with Giovanni Leoni suffering an ACL injury on his debut for the club in September.

Conor Bradley became the latest as the right-back was ruled out for the rest of this season with a knee issue sustained against Arsenal.

As a result, Liverpool have been linked with fast-tracking plans for defensive reinforcements, having also seen a deadline day deal for Marc Guehi collapse in August.

Feyenoord star Givairo Read has been reported as one player the Premier League champions are keeping tabs on this month.

Who is Givairo Read?

Liverpool boss Slot signed the 19-year-old in 2023 and handed the teen his debut against Roma in the Europa League knockout round.

Since then, Read has established himself as Feyenoord’s first-choice right-back, with two assists in 12 Eredivisie matches this season.

However, European football expert Andy Brassell believes a proposed switch to Anfield makes little sense, especially in the January window.

Read was signed by Slot at Feyenoord and has since gone from strength to strength

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Givairo Read vs Conor Bradley attacking stats

Read’s stats in the Eredivisie in 2025/26 per 90 vs Bradley’s stats in the Premier League in 2025/26 per 90 via FotMob

Read: 0.11 non-penalty xG
Bradley: 0.02 non-penalty xG

Read: 0.34 assists
Bradley: 0.1 assists

Read: 0.16 xA
Bradley: 0.09 xA

Read: 1.26 chances created
Bradley: 0.39 chances created

Read: 0.92 successful dribbles
Bradley: 0.68 successful dribbles

Read: 66.7% successful dribbles
Bradley: 31.8% successful dribbles

Read: 4.59 touches in oppposition box
Bradley: 2.7 touches in opposition box

Transfer ‘seems a bit mad to me’

Brassell exclusively told talkSPORT.com: “I think the idea of dropping in a younger player that’s not played in the Premier League… We talked with Viktor Gyökeres about adapting to the Premier League, and he’s a little bit more experienced and has played in England in some form before.

“The idea that Liverpool would do that and just drop him in the deep end mid-season, especially when Jeremie Frimpong‘s still adapting to the Premier League, that seems a bit mad to me, to be honest.

“The obvious thing is just to use Joe Gomez as cover, really.

“Of course, he’s a very different type of right-back, but that’s fine, because Frimpong and Bradley are different types of right-back as well.

“And Feyenoord have had a difficult couple of weeks. There’s a bit of pressure on Robin van Persie for the first time.

Bradley is expected to miss the rest of the season

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There have been reports that Liverpool might bolster at right-back

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“Ajax are catching them up in the race for a Champions League place, PSV are up, up and away, no-one’s catching them in terms of the title.

“So, to me, it doesn’t make an enormous amount of sense, particularly at this mid-point of the season, unless you think that he’s going to be a long-term solution and you’re going to get rid of one of Bradley and Frimpong, which seems unlikely to me.”

Should Liverpool choose to follow up their interest anyway, Read has already issued a come-and-get-me plea to reunite with Slot.

When asked to pick between Manchester City and Man United as his favourite Premier League team, the Dutchman replied: “Liverpool, for sure! Nothing else, no one else.”

Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s son follows his advice with first senior move and gets iconic shirt number

Joe Brophy — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 11:31:59 +0000

Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s son, Maximilian, has completed his first senior transfer by moving from one of his dad’s old clubs to another.

The 19-year-old has left AC Milan to join Ajax on loan for the rest of the season, with an option to make the deal permanent.

Maximilian Ibrahimovic will initially join Ajax’s reserves with the hope of eventually reaching the first-team

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The Sweden U19 international will wear the number 27 in Amsterdam, the first kit number his father was given at Malmo in 1999.

Ibrahimovic Jr. has starred for Milan Futuro in Serie D this season, having scored five goals and laid on four assists in 16 appearances.

His reserve-team form saw him receive his first maiden senior call up for Massimiliano Allegri‘s side for the Supercoppa Italiana last month.

Ibrahimovic, who was an unused substitute in Saudi Arabia for Milan’s 2-0 semi-final defeat to Napoli, has now left the Italians weeks later.

Ajax have confirmed he will initially play for Jong Ajax, who play in the Dutch second tier, with the plan to work his way into the first-team.

“We are very pleased with the arrival of Maximilian,” Marijn Beuker, Ajax director of football, said in a club statement.

“He is a talented forward with a good sense of positioning in and around the penalty area, and he has strong goal-oriented finishing.

“He is skilful with his dribbling and, above all, has a great winner’s mentality and training attitude.”

“He will initially mainly get his playing minutes with Ajax U23 and will regularly move between Ajax U23 and the first team during the season, so that he can get used to the higher level and the intensity of Ajax 1.

“Maximilian is a player with a lot of potential, and we hope that in time he can become a permanent part of Ajax 1’s attack.”

Maximilian Ibrahimovic (left) training with Zlatan at Milan in 2023, months before his father retired

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Following in his father’s footsteps

Maximilian’s father, Zlatan, remains a hero at Ajax, having scored 48 goals in 110 appearances across a three-year spell from 2001-2004.

However, upon his arrival at the Johan Cruijff ArenA, his son said: “I am my own person and player, and I want to write my own story.”

“Nice that my father also played for Ajax,” he added. “I am happy that I get the opportunity to continue developing myself here as well.”

Ibrahimovic arrived at Milan from Hammarby in 2022 during his dad’s second stint as a player at the club.

Zlatan remains in an advisory role at San Siro, but his reduced influence has, in part, played a role in his son seeking pastures new.

The teenager has been playing for Milan Futuro this season

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Milan have to be smart with their transfer business

European football expert Andy Brassell told talkSPORT.com: “There’s a couple of elements to it.

“One being, and we don’t know if this is explicitly connected, but Zlatan Ibrahimovic is slightly less influential at the club than he was, say, six months ago, before Tare was there, when he was Gerry Cardinale’s right-hand man.

“So much of what was at the club went through him. Another part of it is that Milan always has to be looking for value.

“They’re not the same status that they had in 1990. If there were a [Marco] Van Basten and [Ruud] Gullit, [Frank] Rijkaard out there, they wouldn’t be in the market for them. There’s no doubt about that.

“They have to be smart with their transfer business…and the fact is that there was this interest in Maximilian Ibrahimovic.

“So, it’s not only a loan to get experience. They’ve actually got an option to buy in it, which was maybe the bit that surprised me a little bit.

Maximilian Ibrahimovic is a very different profile of player from his old man

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“Now, of course, his younger brother is still at the club, so there is still an Ibrahimovic on the playing staff. They’ve both turned pro.

“But it’ll be really interesting to see how he gets on now. By all accounts, a very different type of player. A wide player.

“But given how much Milan have put into developing young players, he’s come from good stock in that sense.

“Also, he’s got the advantage of arriving at Ajax when they’re having quite a rotten season,” Brassell continued to talkSPORT.

Ibrahimovic Sr. is becoming an increasingly isolated figure at AC Milan

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“Things have improved a little bit under Fred Grimm, and they’re really back in the mix for a Champions League spot now.

“You’re talking about a player who was really not going to be getting on the bench regularly for a while.

“Now, he’s got the opportunity to play for a club that is going for a Champions League place for next season. That’s very exciting if you’re 19 years old. As well as, again, following in his dad’s footsteps.”

Mario Balotelli joins 14th club of his career in surprise move

Joe Brophy — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 12:43:48 +0000

Mario Balotelli has now completed the 14th transfer of his career after being handed a surprise career lifeline by Al-Ittifaq in Dubai.

The maverick Italian has spent the first half of the season as a free agent, having left Genoa upon the expiry of his contract last June.

Balotelli has sealed a switch to Al-Ittifaq FC of Dubai

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Balotelli attracted interest from both Major League Soccer and Liga MX clubs last summer, but ultimately remained unattached.

Balotelli joins new club

The 35-year-old, who maintained his fitness playing and coaching at Kandima in the Maldives, has now found a new home in the UAE.

Balotelli has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with Al-Ittifaq, not to be confused with the Saudi side that Steven Gerrard managed.

Instead, the Emirati football club, who were only founded six years ago, currently sit rock bottom of the UAE First Division.

Al-Ittifaq have only won two of their 11 games this season while scoring just six goals, and need Balotelli to hit the ground running.

However, the striker, whose time in European football looks over, failed to score in any of his six appearances for Genoa last season.

It is the 14th new club of Balotelli’s career, since earning a move to Italian giants Inter Milan in 2007 as a teenager from Lumezzane.

He was part of the Nerazzurri side that won the treble under Jose Mourinho, including the 2010 Champions League.

Balotelli then arrived in England that summer after completing a £20million move to Manchester City.

Balotelli fell out of favour at Genoa in his last spell in Serie A

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Famously, his only Premier League assist proved to be the one that teed up Sergio Aguero‘s dramatic winner to seal the title in 2012.

Following a falling out with City boss Roberto Mancini, Balotelli was shown the door just six months later as he went to AC Milan.

It wasn’t long before Super Mario made a return to the Premier League, however, as he signed for Liverpool in the summer of 2014.

A disastrous spell at Anfield ensued, in which Balotelli managed just four goals in 28 matches for the Reds – one in the Premier League.

The 36-cap Italy international then enjoyed a three-year spell with French club Nice from 2016, after a season on loan back at AC Milan.

Since then, Balotelli hasn’t remained at one club for longer than a season, with stints in Ligue 1, Serie A, Switzerland and Turkey.

Balotelli has spent the last six months without a club

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Mario Balotelli joins 14th new club

2006 – Lumezzane
2007–2010 – Inter Milan
2010–2013 Manchester City
2013–2014 AC Milan
2014–2016 Liverpool
2015–2016 → AC Milan (loan)
2016–2019 Nice
2019 Marseille
2019–2020 Brescia
2020–2021 Monza
2021–2022 Adana Demirspor
2022–2023 Sion
2023–2024 Adana Demirspor
2024–2025 Genoa
2026– Al-Ittifaq

Balotelli ‘thinking’ about becoming a coach

“I’m thinking about it as I’m getting old,” Balotelli told reporters on Saturday ahead of his flight to Dubai to join his new team.

“But what if I find another one with my same character? What would I do next?”

On Al-Ittifaq, Balotelli added: “It’s a nice project.

“It’s hot in there, while here it’s cold, so I can’t wait to get there. I’m even stronger than the others.

“There were a few calls from Italy. We tried to negotiate, but I wasn’t up for it.

“I think football has changed; there are other players, and it’s right to make room for them. I’m 35.”

Chelsea handed immediate edge over Arsenal in £38m race to sign ‘next Lionel Messi’

Joe Brophy — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:49:55 +0000

Chelsea have been told that the arrival of Liam Rosenior as manager has handed them a huge boost in the race for Genk’s new wonderkid.

The Blues are no strangers to plucking talent from the Belgian club, having landed both Kevin De Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois as teens.

Chelsea are hoping to beat Arsenal to the signing of Genk wonderkid Konstantinos Karetsas

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Goalkeeper Mike Penders, who is currently on loan at Strasbourg, became the latest starlet to swap Genk for Stamford Bridge last year.

His former teammate, Konstantinos Karetsas, who has been likened to Lionel Messi, has now caught the eye of Chelsea and Arsenal.

Who is Karetsas?

The 18-year-old, who made 39 appearances as Thorsten Fink’s side won the Belgian Pro League last year, has impressed again this term.

Karetsas has registered six assists in 18 league games, while he also has a goal and laid on two more in only six Europa League matches.

The midfielder, who was born in Belgium to Greek parents, earned the first of nine caps with Greece last March.

He scored two of his three international goals against Scotland in 2025, but was unable to help his country qualify for the World Cup.

Arsenal were said to have been close to reaching a £37.8million deal to sign him in the summer, but a transfer failed to come to fruition.

The Gunners remain keen on Karetsas, but European football expert Andy Brassell believes a switch to Chelsea would serve him better.

Chelsea over Arsenal for Karetsas

The Blues do boast an abundance of young attacking midfielders, but new manager Liam Rosenior is an excellent developer of players.

It is for that reason, and Arsenal‘s depth of established senior talent, that Brassell believes makes Chelsea a better next step for Karetsas.

“With Karetsas, he’s been given such agency at such a young age by Genk and by Greece,” he explained exclusively to talkSPORT.com.

“But as someone who plays regularly for Genk and takes responsibility on the pitch, both for Genk and for Greece, I think Arsenal is actually quite a difficult sell at the moment, unless they’re buying him and loaning him out somewhere else.

“If you think about, say, Ethan Nwaneri, who occupies a not entirely dissimilar zone on the pitch to the one that Karetsas does, even though he can come from deeper positions, he’s a left-footed player who drifts out right and then comes back inside onto that left foot.”

Chelsea have already signed Karetsas’s former Genk teammate Mike Penders

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The goalkeeper spent the first half of the season under Rosenior at Strasbourg

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‘Being developed by Rosenior is quite a compelling pitch’

“He loves to dribble players, go past players. He’s become better and better at delivering the final pass,” Brassell continued on Karetsas.

“I think there are more goals to come in his game, that’s for sure. To go to Arsenal, how is he going to get a game at the moment?

“I just don’t see it. He’s such a good player, and he’s going to become a really good player, I think. But he’s only going to become a really good player if he plays.

“If all of a sudden there’s a block on that, I don’t know. Obviously, I can’t know what’s going through his head, but I would say Arsenal is an Everest at the moment, even though he’s a player with real quality.

“I think with Chelsea, even though there are other competing players in those areas in which he could play, if I were him, I would fancy my chances more of getting a game at Chelsea.

“Being developed by Liam Rosenior, I think, is quite a compelling pitch if you’re looking for someone to go top level.

Karetsas played for Belgium’s youth sides before switching allegiances to Greece

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“So, could I see Karetsas signing for Chelsea and maybe getting loaned out elsewhere? Yeah, maybe that would be a possibility.

“I think the talent is so big, it would make sense for a Premier League club to sign him at the moment.

“But I’m just not completely sold on whether he immediately gets decent game time at a Premier League side.

“If a big Premier League club picks him up, it’s all about picking the right one to make sure he’s developed correctly. And I think actually, I would fancy Chelsea to do that better than Arsenal.”

Man United rival Arsenal for £70million target that could trigger Jadon Sancho move

Joe Brophy — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 08:54:59 +0000

Jadon Sancho has been told that a third return home may only be possible if ex-teammate Karim Adeyemi leaves Borussia Dortmund.

Sancho has made just one Premier League start since joining Aston Villa on loan in September, failing to register a goal or an assist.

Sancho’s first Premier League start this season came at Arsenal on December 30

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talkSPORT revealed last month that Manchester United are resigned to allowing the England international leave for free next summer.

Sancho has not played a league game for the Red Devils since August 2023, following a public spat with former manager Erik ten Hag.

The club have the option to extend his Old Trafford contract, which expires next summer, by a further year to protect his transfer value.

However, talkSPORT has been told United are leaning towards cutting their losses to avoid paying Sancho’s wages for another 12 months.

His Villa struggles have sparked fresh speculation that a third move to Dortmund could be on the cards to revitalise his career.

Sancho back to Dortmund again

European football broadcaster Andy Brassell explained to talkSPORT.com: “There’s no doubt about it.

“Borussia Dortmund is home for Jadon Sancho in football terms. He is a fit there, unlike he’s a fit anywhere else.

“He’s been able to get his level up higher there than he’s got anywhere else.

“I think the fact that he feels like he belongs there, and he feels like he gets a bit more love and understanding there than he does elsewhere.

“Again, it feels like that’s what he needs at the moment.”

Sancho has struggled for form during his loan spell at Villa Park

“I guess we look at Sancho through the prism of what happened at United and other bits in his career,” Brassell continued.

“Really, we could look at him in the same way that people are looking at Harvey Elliott. A good player who can’t get in the XI at Villa because they’re really good at the moment.

“Why would you put Elliott or Sancho ahead of any of those other players that are playing at the moment? Because the 14-15 that they’re playing with at the moment are doing amazing things.

“So, I don’t really think that what’s not happening for Sancho at Villa at the moment should be seen as his fault, particularly.”

Kar holds they keys

Sancho retains admirers in the Dortmund hierarchy, but much will depend on the future of long-standing United target Adeyemi.

Sancho enjoyed a strong loan spell back at Dortmund in the second half of the 2023/24 season

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The winger played in the Champions League final defeat against Real Madrid

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According to The Mirror, United are among the many sides monitoring his situation, but Adeyemi favours a switch to Arsenal.

Brassell added: “The Sancho-Dortmund question is a difficult one. Because if they were to be more formally offered him in a sense that United and Villa were happy to do the deal, and Dortmund were really keen to come to the table.

“Dortmund, there are a lot of people on the board there and in the dressing room who have got a lot of support for him, and immediately. I think that is a huge plus for him.

“Now, I think there has to be a question from Dortmund’s perspective. It’s a big investment. Is it really what we need at the moment? Where’s the fit?

“So, the last loan was an opportunity loan, really. They were getting him for a short period of time.

“They weren’t paying an enormous amount for the deal. It felt like a deal that just fell in their lap and worked for the short term.

Adeyemi has become embroiled in controversy on-and-off the pitch this season

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“But if they were going to take him back again, there would be a sense that they’re responsible for his redevelopment.

“And they’re more than aware of what he can do, now, I think there are a couple of things connected to this. There are doubts over the futures of a few Dortmund players at the moment. One of whom is Karim Adeyemi, who is out of contract in 2027.

“Talking of split opinions over Sancho, there’s quite a split opinion over Adeyemi about whether they’re going to keep him; it’s going to cost them quite a lot of money. They’re going to have to probably double his current salary. They might have to wear a release clause.

“And Dortmund don’t like to have release clauses in contracts, ever since the Mario Gotze one kind of blew up in their faces.

“So I think that there is a possibility that they will decide, right, enough is enough.

“There are a lot of people at the club who think they could do with cashing in on Adeyemi while his reputation is still reasonably high.

Sancho scored in Chelsea’s Conference League final win over Real Betis last term

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“Now, if they were to do that, then a medium-term move for Sancho would make more sense, I think, because I think to have them both in there, it seems like they’re quite expensive.

“Whereas, obviously, Adeyemi is a little bit different because he’s played as a central striker as well.

“But if you’re looking for that sort of X-factor attacking player, and they’re not going to continue with Adeyemi, because as we said, to extend his contract would be a really big investment.

“If they can get the money for him, I think the gamble, and it would be a gamble, in bringing Sancho back is a balance we’ll want.”

Real Madrid target £45million right-back months after Trent Alexander-Arnold transfer

Joe Brophy — Sat, 20 Dec 2025 11:26:49 +0000

Real Madrid have been told that they are absolutely right to keep an eye on wing-back Wesley França following his start to life at Roma.

The 22-year-old is already said to be on the radar of the Spanish giants after scoring three goals in his first 13 Serie A matches.

Wesley Franca has made a flying start at Roma

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Wesley, who only made his Brazil debut this year, impressed for Flamengo at the Club World Cup before moving to Europe.

The defender, who starred in a 3-1 win over Chelsea, snubbed interest from Juventus to emulate Cafu in linking up with the Giallorossi.

According to reports, Barcelona and Real Madrid are already watching Wesley with keen interest, having helped Roma launch a title bid.

European football broadcaster Andy Brassell isn’t surprised by the interest, but believes a transfer next month looks unlikely.

He exclusively told talkSPORT.com: “If you sign Wesley, it’s not just that he’s a right-back and right-wing back. He’s played left-back and left-wing back as well for Roma. So, he looks pretty versatile.

“I would be surprised if he went in January. Now, I think part of it is Roma’s availability issues, really.

“In the medium term, if they were to get a big offer for Wesley, and they paid €25 million (£21m) for him, so it would need to be big.

“It would need to be a substantial profit. I think you’re looking up to maybe the €40-50m (£35-45m) mark, and they’d sell.

“Obviously, they’re not in the strongest financial position ever. But they’ve got Devyne Rensch as well.

“They’ve got Angelino when he comes back, even though it’s been suggested that he’s not really Gian Piero Gasperini’s cup of tea. So, they do have other options.

Wesley has scored three goals in 13 Serie A games

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Real Madrid watching Wesley

“With the money they were going to get for Wesley, if they were to double or almost double their money, they’d be in a good position to go out and replace him,” Brassell continued to talkSPORT.

“That’s definitely one to watch going forward. Wesley’s been impressive.

“Compared to a lot of wing-backs who are out there, what really impresses me about Wesley is not only the adaptability, that he can play right and left, and he’s very skilled in the attack. He can actually defend as well.

“It’s obviously more of a high-level and physical challenge now as well, and I think he’s adapted to Roma pretty quickly as well.

“So, yeah, Real Madrid are absolutely right to keep an eye on him.”

The Brazilian signed a contract until 2030

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What does this mean for Trent?

Trent Alexander-Arnold won’t be relishing links to another right-back as he recovers from his second injury as a Madrid player.

The ex-Liverpool man is not expected back from an ankle issue until next year, having also missed six weeks with a hamstring problem.

He was recently ranked as having made the worst start of 10 English stars to have completed overseas transfers last summer.

The 27-year-old had finally registered his first assist for Madrid this month before suffering his latest injury later that same game.

However, Brassell argued that Wesley’s versatility, coupled with doubts over Dani Carvajal‘s long-term future, might not mean bad news for Alexander-Arnold.

Trent has endured an injury-hit season at Real Madrid

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Real Madrid need defensive options

“We don’t know how long Carvajal’s going to be able to go on for. Been out injured again, of course, recently, since coming back.

“If I was Real Madrid, I’d be looking at really trying to avoid Federico Valverde playing right-back. We know he can do a really good job.

“We know he’s got the engine to power from deep. But they miss him so much in midfield when he’s not in midfield.

“If you’re talking about the defensive solidity of the team, the composition of the midfield is a huge part of that. And I think that’s quite easily missed.

“They don’t want to Joshua Kimmich him just because he’s capable there. They don’t want him to play there on the regular.

“Clearly, you need cover for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has been good in patches, but of course, has suffered those two big injuries.

“Hopefully for him, he’ll be back, but he’s still adapting to Spanish football. So, I think Carvajal, if he can get fit, is the ideal competitor slash sub for him in the meantime.

“But if we’re looking at the long term, Real Madrid do need defensive options. Because I think you look at left-back as well.

“Alvaro Carreras has been their best signing this summer. He did great at Benfica. He’s looked the part at Real Madrid. He’s looked really, really ready for it.”

“Someone who they dropped a fair old chunk of change on, but wasn’t someone who you had to play all the time,” Brassell continued.

Real Madrid will need competition at right-back to stop Trent’s run of injury problems

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“He wasn’t a superstar. And Wesley won’t turn up as a superstar as well.

“He might turn up as an expensive player if he comes, but he won’t turn up as an absolutely cannot leave this guy out sort of a superstar.

“I think the political pressure to pick someone comes more from their profile rather than the fee spent on them when you’re talking about Real Madrid.

“So I could see it happening in the medium term if it was the right money for Roma.

“I would trust Real Madrid actually to ease him in in the right way.”

Manchester United transfer dream in tatters as Premier League target faces up to three months on sidelines

Joe Brophy — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 13:52:36 +0000

Bournemouth have suffered a huge blow with boss Andoni Iraola confirming Tyler Adams will be sidelined with a torn MCL.

The 26-year-old has starred for the Cherries this term, which has led to Manchester United considering a potential £40million move in 2026.

Adams suffered his knee injury during the recent 4-4 draw at Old Trafford

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talkSPORT’s transfer correspondent Ben Jacobs revealed that Adams is on United’s radar as a future midfield target for Ruben Amorim.

However, his prospects of a January transfer have effectively been ended by an injury suffered, ironically, at Old Trafford.

The USA international injured his knee in the second minute of the 4-4 epic during a challenge with Matheus Cunha and was forced off.

Speaking immediately after the thriller, Bournemouth coach Iraola said: “He’s the worst news from the game, definitely. The knee twisted, I think the MCL. We’ll have to check and see if it is a small sprain or bigger.”

Iraola’s worst fears have now been realised, with the Bournemouth boss confirming the injury timescale in his pre-match press conference on Friday ahead of Saturday’s clash with Burnley.

The Spaniard revealed that Adams has suffered a torn MCL and could be sidelined for up to three months.

Can’t Adam and Eve it

Iraola said: “Tyler is injured. He has torn his MCL. So he will be out, definitely out for some time.”

Commenting on when Adams could be back in action, Iraola remarked: “Normally two, three months.

“Two months, optimistic two months, pessimistic three, something like this.

“So, yes, it’s a big blow. It’s a big blow because it’s an important player for us.

Adams suffered his latest injury against a team interested in signing him

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Amorim may need to rejig his transfer plans

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“But straight away, when you see the mechanism, the action, we were feeling that there could be something there. Yes.”

Adams has started 15 of Bournemouth’s 16 Premier League matches this season, only missing the other game through suspension.

He has scored twice and registered one assist, and even won November’s Goal of the Month award for his stunning long-range lob in the club’s 3-2 away defeat at Sunderland last month.

“Tyler is very valuable for us,” Iraola continued. I think he’s also a very unique player, very specific player in what he does.

“But we also have options. Alex [Scott] has been playing there as a number six.

“We have Lewis Cook, that is his natural position that we recover him from the suspension. But it’s true that he’s a player that is difficult to replace because he’s very, very unique.”

Adams has been a key figure for Bournemouth this season

The midfielder’s latest fitness setback comes as a heavy blow, having previously endured a near two-year road back to full fitness.

A hamstring injury in March 2023 ultimately required surgery, with multiple back issues then hampering his progress on the south coast.

The US 2022 World Cup captain has made over 50 appearances for Bournemouth since his £20m arrival from Leeds two years ago.

Adams was a virtual ever-present in Iraola‘s side that finished ninth in the Premier League last season after an injury-hit first year.

His continued form this term saw him emerge as a cost-effective alternative target to Elliot Anderson or Carlos Baleba for United.

Second big-six transfer derailed

Any potential switch to Old Trafford was always more likely to be next summer, but injury has come at an inopportune time again.

Adams’ recent run of good fitness came to an unfortunate end at Old Trafford

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Adams was previously nursing a fitness issue when Chelsea activated his £20m release clause at Leeds, before talks broke down.

Bournemouth swooped in a week later and would be reluctant to let their key man go when interest is renewed after the World Cup.

Leeds urged to sign Arne Slot’s record transfer who is now outscoring Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe

Joe Brophy — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000

One of Arne Slot’s record signings is a striker with more league goals than Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe – but it’s not Alexander Isak.

Feyenoord star Ayase Ueda is mixing it with the world’s best forwards after scoring an astonishing 19 goals in 21 games in all competitions.

GettySlot broke Feyenoord’s transfer record to sign Ueda in 2023[/caption]

Two years on, the striker is one of Europe’s top goalscorers

The Japanese international has found the net 18 times in just 15 Eredivisie matches this season, without taking a single penalty.

Ueda was on course for a 37-minute hat-trick in Feyenoord’s 6-1 demolition of PEC Zwolle when his side were awarded a spot-kick.

The 27-year-old let Quinten Timber, brother of Arsenal defender Jurrien, score the penalty before bagging another two himself.

His four-goal haul has meant Ueda now has more league goals than Kane, Mbappe, and Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland.

Under Robin van Persie, Feyenoord’s No.9 has more than doubled the nine-goal tally that he managed in 31 games last season.

Deja vu for Arne Slot

In each of the two summer windows after winning a league title, Slot has broken a club’s transfer record to bring in a new striker.

Isak has just one goal across 641 minutes in the Premier League and Champions League since his £125million move from Newcastle.

The Swede has been outshone by fellow striker Hugo Ekitike, with talkSPORT’s Danny Murphy saying he looks ‘weak and well off it’.

Two years ago, it was Ueda struggling under Slot as backup behind Santiago Gimenez following Feyenoord’s Eredivisie triumph in 2023.

GettyUeda scored four without a single penalty in Feyenoord’s win over Zwolle[/caption]

Best goals per 90 for European strikers

Players with more than 10 league goals in Europe's top leagues

Harry Kane – 1.53

Ayase Ueda – 1.32

Ferran Torres – 1.06

Erling Haaland – 1.05

Kylian Mbappe – 1.03

Ueda has more league goals than Kane, Mbappe and Haaland

Ueda joined Feyenoord in a deal worth up to €10.5m (£9.1m) off the back of scoring 23 goals during his single year at Cercle Brugge.

Yet he started just five Eredivisie games in the 2023/24 campaign, all but one of which came in the final four matches of that season.

Over a year later, Ueda needed just five league appearances to equal the entirety of his goal return under Slot across 1,204 minutes.

“If you look at Ueda, he has been a bit of a slow burner for Feyenoord, it’s fair to say,” European football expert Andy Brassell told talkSPORT.

“It’s taken a while for it to happen, and it’s taken a while for him to be a consistent choice in the team.

GettySlot believed in Ueda’s potential but never saw the best of him[/caption]

“Now, I think the fact that he’s played as many minutes as he’s played in almost any other season already, because he’s started every game, which has been a really big thing.

“But it feels to me as if Ueda’s learnt to play in this Feyenoord team. He’s got some great creative talents around him, by the way.

“You look at Anis Hadj Moussa, Quentin Timber, you’ve got Goncalo Borges, the winger, to help create for him as well.

“I think that’s an important thing, when you’re looking at wide service for Ueda, that’s really helped this season, the arrival of Borges has been a big thing.

GettyUeda has formed a stellar partnership with Quinten Timber and Goncalo Borges[/caption]

“What’s remarkable about him is that he scores lots of different types of goals. He has got that presence in the box.

“If you look at his height, you wouldn’t say this is a guy who’s going to get a third of his goals in the air. But he is a really, really good dominator of those central spaces; he’s a really good header of the ball, as well as being able to get behind and run behind.

“So he’s almost like two strikers in one, really. I think the way that Feyenoord play and the way that they create chances has enabled him to become that kind of player.

“The way that he’s come out of the blocks, and of course it’s unavoidable to say the way that he’s been coached by Robin Van Persie, and that clearly helps.”

Feyenoord to cash in?

De Kuip will find European clubs knocking for their star striker for a second successive winter window following Ueda’s form.

Earlier this year, Feyenoord allowed Santiago Gimenez to join AC Milan, with clubs also expected to take a punt on his old teammate.

“There’s always a bit of a question mark attached to the Eurodivisie strikers because you just wonder, are you getting Van Nistelrooy or are you getting Afonso Alves, basically?” Brassell added.

“It’s quite hard to judge whether that goal scoring will transfer to one of the elite European leagues.

“I could see Ueda doing well in Spain, but I’m just not really convinced there’s the money out there for him, likewise with the Bundesliga.

GettyUeda – far right – has flourished since Santiago Gimenez – far left – was sold[/caption]

‘Got Leeds written all over him’

“I wonder if a bottom-half Premier League team has a dart for him next summer or maybe even as early as January, depending on where they’re at.

“He’s kind of got Leeds written all over him. There’s a lot to like about them, but where are the guys putting it in the back of the net?

“There are big question marks over the sustainability over the period of a season for both Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha.

“So I wonder if you throw in Ueda in the mix and make use of that hot-hand syndrome. This guy’s in great nick at the moment.

“Why don’t we get him in now and just let him continue that great season, but at our place?

“If you’re Feyenoord and a Premier League club come in with a proper offer, I think it’s quite hard to say no.

“However ambitious Van Persie is, I think a big offer tempts you.”

GettyLeeds will likely face extensive competition for his signature[/caption]

Premier League transfer in January

Ueda’s former boss, Slot, recently admitted that part of Isak’s struggles is the lack of a Jacob Murphy profile in his Liverpool squad.

Fortunately, that wouldn’t be an issue for Ueda, who ‘scores all types of goals’ according to Brassell.

He continued: “If you look at the Leeds full-backs as well, if I’m Ueda, I’d go in and make friends with Gabriel Gudmundsson on the first day.

“There are so many opportunities for him – Leeds is just one example.

“I’m sure when it comes to January, there will be a couple of bottom-half Premier League clubs that have a dart for him.

“I’d be really surprised if that wasn’t the case.”

Champions League club told to replace 22-cap England international with Kobbie Mainoo

Joe Brophy — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 10:44:44 +0000

Kobbie Mainoo has three Champions League giants pushing to sign him – but Manchester United have been urged to loan him to Lyon.

The 20-year-old wants to leave the Red Devils next month, talkSPORT understands, having fallen out of favour under Ruben Amorim.

Mainoo has been left out in the cold by Amorim

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Bayern Munich and Napoli are among the clubs interested in Mainoo, who has only played 183 minutes of Premier League football this year.

European football expert Andy Brassell has told talkSPORT.com that Vincent Kompany’s men would be the better pick between the two.

That is despite Napoli already revitalising the careers of two of Mainoo’s ex-teammates in Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund.

“I think when you look at Napoli at the moment, of course, you can see why they would be interested,” Brassell started.

“There’s absolutely no doubt about that. But midfield is the strongest part of Napoli’s team.

“You look at the players, they do have McTominay, [Stanislav] Lobotka, who’s an absolute prince of a midfielder. André-Frank Zambo Anguissa, who’s been brilliant since he’s been there, and then on top of that, you’ve got [Kevin] De Bruyne to come back.

“Is it just out of the frying pan, into the fire for Mainoo? I want him to go somewhere where I feel he’s going to play a lot.

“Now, look, his talent is a bit of a dilemma because his talent, on one hand, demands that he should play for an elite club.

“On the other hand, I think he needs to be somewhere where he’s going to play a lot. So, Bayern, again, there’s a question mark.

“What kind of helps him if he goes to Bayern is the fact that Konrad Laimer has basically permanently relocated to right-back.

Bayern over Napoli for Mainoo

“As a player who’s not the same but shares quite a few of the same qualities, he’s not competition for him,” Brassell continued.

“When we’re talking about the other players in the Bayern midfield, [Joshua] Kimmick, maybe to an extent, but Aleksandar Pavlović, they’re different players to Mainoo.

“So, there’s definitely still, I would say, a place for him to get involved.

“Kompany likes guys who are really good on the ball. Again, big box ticks for Mainoo. When they get to next summer, I suspect, if not January, they will try and shift Leon Goretzka.

“Even if Ryan Gravenberch got stuck there, it feels to me that there will be more logical openings at Bayern than Napoli for Mainoo.”

GettyMainoo has a big decision to make in January as clubs register their interest[/caption]

Atletico Madrid another option for Mainoo

Diego Simeone is also said to have earmarked Mainoo as a replacement should Conor Gallagher leave Atleti.

It would represent a full-circle moment for the midfielder, who replaced his compatriot during England’s Euro 2024 campaign.

Incidentally, Gallagher is on a six-man shortlist for Man United in 2026, having revealed his unhappiness at his lack of gametime.

The 22-cap England international even saw a potential loan switch to Old Trafford rebuffed on deadline day in August.

Brassell told talkSPORT: “The other one we’ve got to mention, the other major European club that have shown interest in him [Mainoo], has got to be Atletico Madrid.

“Now, sometimes you feel as if they could do a little bit more craft in that midfield. Now, they have brought in Thiago Almada, Alex Baena, who would play a little bit further forward than Kobbie Mainoo and would be expected to provide more goals.

“That is the other plus for Mainoo, that he can play in a number of different midfield positions.”

Gallagher back in the Premier League

“There would be competition with Pablo Barrios, but the fact is, again, they’re going to be making a change,” Brassell added.

“I would be very surprised if Conor Gallagher wasn’t back in the Premier League by the start of 2026-27, the latest.

“We know Simeone appreciates him and his teammates appreciate him. He can’t make a permanent spot for himself.

“At some point, he’s going to say, ‘Look, I’m still in my 20s, I still want to play for England, I need to play regularly somewhere, and I’m never going to get that at Atletico’.”

Man United are interested in Gallagher, who has struggled to start at Atletico

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Mainoo loan to Lyon or Benfica

Mainoo, who has been with United since joining their academy aged nine, has so far failed to agree to a new contract with the Red Devils.

Amorim’s side blocked a loan move for the youngster last summer, but such an option may look more appealing in the winter window.

“All these clubs, I feel like Mainoo could be in the first 11s at any of those clubs. But I guess the question is, how do you get him into a position where he’s going to play all the time?

“That’s not an easy answer when you think of any of these clubs that are really suited to him.

“I wonder if you’re maybe a club not quite of that level, you’re thinking, let’s make United an offer here, let’s loan him for half a season and then after he plays every week and plays really well, then we’ll sell him for whatever we want to sell him for, and we’ll get maximum value.

“Everyone has to agree that he’s not at the peak of his value at the moment. That is largely not his fault, but he hasn’t played enough to be.

“I think you’ll struggle to sell him for 60 or 70 million, for example, at the moment. It’s just not happening for that sort of money.

“I wonder if you loan him to a club that couldn’t actually afford to buy him. Whether that be a Lyon or a Benfica or someone like that.

“This is a guy who’s going to play every week, he’s going to absolutely smash it.

GettyEndrick (right) is closing in on a loan to Lyon[/caption]

Mainoo impressed Ten Hag, but the same can’t be said with Amorim

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Like Real Madrid’s Endrick plan

“A little bit like what is the plan at the moment, at least, for Endrick to go to Lyon on a dry loan for the second half of the season.

“He’s keen to go because before the World Cup, he knows he can play every week. A dry loan for Mainoo would seem like a really good idea.

“Maybe still if he goes and plays 20, 25 games in the back half of the season, he’s still got an outside chance for the World Cup squad.

“Okay, it is an outside chance, but it’s a chance nevertheless.

“Then, after he’s proved how great he is, United can sell at the sort of value more commensurate with his talent.”

Tottenham told to end interest in Inter Milan legend’s son with £20m transfer clause

Joe Brophy — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:29:38 +0000

Aleksandar Stankovic has earned praise in his breakthrough season – but interest from Tottenham in signing him has been questioned.

The 20-year-old, son of Inter Milan hero Dejan, has been rewarded for leaving his father’s old club to make his name at Club Brugge.

GettyAleksandar Stankovic is attracting Premier League interest[/caption]

The Serbian midfielder, who captained Inter’s youth side, quit Serie A last summer without making his senior debut for the Nerazzurri.

However, Stankovic has been vindicated in his decision, with 26 appearances already this season, with a goal and an assist.

The youngster played the entirety of Brugge’s epic 3-3 draw with Barcelona, and featured in Serbia’s 2-0 loss to England last month.

Stankovic was emboldened to depart Inter by the success of his older brother Filip, who is currently impressing at Serie B side Venezia.

Dejan Stankovic’s sons leave Inter

“You guess that him and his older brother, Filip, presumably had similar advice from dad,” European football expert Andy Brassell said.

He added to talkSPORT.com: “Either that or they’re young men who very much know their own mind, perhaps a bit of both.

“Both brothers came through the Inter Academy, and both have decided to go and make their career elsewhere, despite both having admirers at Inter and both being valued by Inter as well.

“Now, for Aleksandar, it’s clear that this has been a really good decision for him.

“You look at the amount of players moved, not just through Club Brugge, and the fact that getting to play in the Champions League as well is a big deal. But he’s seized his opportunity really well.

GettyStankovic scored on his debut for Serbia in October and played against England a month later[/caption]

GettyHe has been cutting his teeth against Champions League heavyweights as well[/caption]

Spurs and Newcastle are both said to be monitoring his performances for Brugge

“I think if you look at their mix that they have between young players and more experienced players, they’ve got the right elder players in there to really guide.

“Simon Mignolet is one of those, for a start. Hans Vanaken, who has been there for ages now, can really help those young players as well.

“But Stankovic has obviously got a huge amount of quality. He’s tough. He doesn’t really give the ball away.”

Tottenham interested in Aleksandar Stankovic

Recent reports from Italy claim that both Spurs and Newcastle are keen on signing the midfielder, who has a buyback clause with Inter.

Cristian Chivu’s side can trigger a buy-back clause of €23million [£20.33million] in 2026, having sold him for under £9m last July.

And Brassell questioned why Tottenham would be rivals for Stankovic’s signature, with Joao Palhinha already on their books.

GettyDejan Stankovic’s sons, Filip and Aleksandar, both spent time at his old club’s academy[/caption]

GettyInter retain an option to buy Stankovic back next summer[/caption]

Thomas Frank‘s men still have the option to make the Portuguese’s temporary stay from Bayern Munich permanent for around £27m.

On Stankovic, Brassell told talkSPORT: “When you look at those clubs that have been linked with him, I don’t know why Spurs would want another of that type of midfielder, if I’m being perfectly honest.

“He’s a better set-piece deliverer than either Palhinha or [Rodrigo] Bentancur. But I think you look at them and think, do they need another player like that?

“Unless they’re not keeping Palhinha, presumably. Maybe that’s part of it. But he’s developing really, really quickly as well.”

GettyDejan Stankovic is the only player to have played for three different countries at the World Cup[/caption]

Watch out for his Filip Stankovic

“It is also worth keeping an eye on Filip, his older brother. He’s a goalkeeper, and he did really, really well on loan at Venezia last season.

“They were almost able to stay up in Serie A. He had a huge influence on that.

“Funnily enough, he’s probably not a big goalkeeper by modern standards. He’s six foot two.

“But he does have that presence about him, almost Schmeichel-esque in that sense. Really great shot stopper, dominates the area.

GettyFilip Stankovic – pictured with his father – has made a name for himself at a different Italian club[/caption]

GettyThe 23-year-old is joint top of the clean sheet standings with seven from 14 Serie B matches[/caption]

“And he got them some surprising results that kept them in the hunt for staying up longer than probably they should have done with the sort of team they had.

“Now, he’s signed permanently for Venezia this summer. They are pushing to get promoted. They’re in the top six.

“So it could be a big season for both of the Stankovic brothers.”

Manchester United could sell 11 players leave in drastic fire sale which includes Bruno Fernandes to fund summer transfer war chest

Connor Andrews — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 17:56:55 +0000

Manchester United are considering yet another squad clear-out in an effort to make things click under Ruben Amorim.

The two-time Portuguese champion was publicly backed by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe last month, being told he’d be given three years despite a horror start.

Amorim is being backed to overhaul his squad once again

Getty

That could well mean goodbye captain Bruno Fernandes

Getty

Now a report from The Sun claims that United’s hierarchy will go even further, and sell up to 11 departures and a series of incomings.

United spent an estimated £216million in the summer (£170m net spend), mainly overhauling their forward positions with Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha costing the vast majority of that.

Next up appears to be the midfield, with the report claiming England internationals Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest and Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace are seen as a fit for Amorim’s 3-4-3 system.

A wide player and goalkeeper are also high on the list of priorities despite Senne Lammens arriving from Royal Antwerp to fill the latter issue in an £18m summer deal.

To achieve such a feat, that net spend figure may need to be reduced by the means of an almighty clear-out.

Making the biggest dent could be captain Bruno Fernandes, should he finally say goodbye to Old Trafford after six-and-a-half years of service.

The Portuguese has often looked out of place in Amorim’s system, and has a contractual clause that allows him to join a foreign side for £57m.

United also have a guaranteed incoming of £38m for Rasmus Hojlund, with Napoli obliged to purchase the striker who moved to Manchester for a massive £72m in 2023.

Elsewhere, Barcelona have a £30m option to purchase loanee Marcus Rashford, and the signs are pointing towards such a deal given his six goals and eight assists in 17 games.

United’s bursting wage bill

The move would also boost United’s rebuild in another area – wages, given that Rashford is one of three players to be on over £300,000 per-week.

Rashford looks set for a Barcelona stay with both parties very happy thus far

Manchester United's 11-man cull list

Estimated weekly wages, via The Sun

Casemiro – £350,000
Bruno Fernandes – £300,000
Marcus Rashford – £325,000
Jadon Sancho – £250,000
Harry Maguire – £190,000
Manuel Ugarte – £120,000
Joshua Zirkzee – £105,000
Rasmus Højlund – £85,000
Tyrell Malacia – £75,000
Altay Bayindir – £35,000
Kobbie Mainoo – £25,000

TOTAL COMBINED – £2,080,000

Fernandes is another, while five-time Champions League winner Casemiro is reportedly the club’s top earner on £350,000 per-week.

The 33-year-old Brazilian is very likely to be released next summer, while Manuel Ugarte and Kobiee Maino are two other midfielders Amorim clearly doesn’t see in his long-term plans.

Much like Casemiro, a new home will be sought for Jadon Sancho, given his £250,000 per-week wages and lack of form at Old Trafford.

Tyrell Malacia was part of United’s infamous ‘bomb squad’ and will be released if he’s not sold beforehand, while Joshua Zirkzee and Altay Bayindir are two more players clearly not viewed as being up to the level.

Last but not least, former captain Harry Maguire is likely to be the final goodbye of the 11, with his contract expiring next summer.

Previously the world’s most expensive defender at £80m, the former England regular signed a one-year deal in the summer, but with wages of £190,000 per-week, he’s another near-certain departure.

Maguire hinted at his departure after scoring the decisive goal during Man United’s 2-1 win over Liverpool at Anfield in October

Such a clear-out would result in over £2m in salary space and upwards of £125m should the right buyers be found.

It’s a bold strategy, but United have tied their future to Amorim, and it looks like he will be backed to the hilt.

‘Dream of mine’ – Crystal Palace hero names Manchester United as one club he’d love to join

Connor Andrews — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 15:34:47 +0000

Flying Crystal Palace fullback Daniel Munoz can see himself playing for one of the world’s best sides – or Manchester United.

The Colombian has been one of the Premier League’s stand-out players this season, having already shone under Oliver Glasner in 2024/25.

Munoz has been shining at Selhurst and may get a big move, even at the age of 29

Getty

That’s understandably brought some transfer speculation, with many of Palace’s key men going on to shine elsewhere.

Michael Olise has become a stand-out attacker for Bayern Munich and France since leaving Selhurst Park, and Eberechi Eze is on the same path for Arsenal and England.

Munoz is doing similar for Colombia, booking a spot at the 2026 World Cup, and he admits he’s already thought about his next club.

Asked about a Palace departure by AS, he responded “I think there’s a lot of talk about one club or another.

“For me, it would be a dream to play for one of those clubs, whether it’s Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Manchester United.

“I think I’m working towards that; every day I give it my all so that maybe one day I can catch the attention of these clubs.

“Right now, I’m focused on my club, on doing things well at Crystal Palace. I’m not really aware of what’s being said; I don’t have any information about whether these teams want me or are interested in me.

“We’ll see when the winter transfer window approaches. Right now, I’m fully focused on these two matches with the national team.”

Munoz will undoubtedly continue to draw attention, particularly from those European sides should he have a strong showing in the Americas next summer.

Yet being mentioned along regular Champions League and league winners Madrid, Barca and PSG shows just how big United’s lure remains, having snagged Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo ahead of better-placed rivals in the summer.

Munoz has helped take Palace to new heights

Munoz is following up his excellent 2024/25 season with another fine campaign

When it comes to attacking Munoz has eight goals and 13 assists in 81 games for Palace, while he’s also been part of a rock solid defence, winning a first-ever major trophy in the FA Cup last season.

The 29-year-old is still very happy where he is, though, saying playing in England was just as big a dream, and one he realised upon leaving Belgian side Genk in January 2024.

Discussing his suitability for the league, he said: “I prepare myself in every aspect to the best of my ability.

“Reaching the Premier League and then staying there was a dream of mine, and I believe that’s the result of daily hard work.

“To achieve that, you only get there by working hard and putting it at the service of my team and the national team.

“I’ve always been known for my work ethic, and one of my strengths is my athletic ability, which I strive to improve to maintain a high level.”

Arsenal legend urges club to reignite interest in Jude Bellingham’s ‘most-gifted’ teammate

Joe Brophy — Sat, 15 Nov 2025 13:03:06 +0000

Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva has urged the Gunners to reignite their interest in his Brazilian compatriot Rodrygo.

The Invincible midfielder encouraged the Real Madrid star to ‘make the next step’ this summer and tipped his old club as ‘the perfect fit.’

Rodrygo has been linked with a move to the Premier League

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In May, talkSPORT revealed that Arsenal were genuine contenders to sign Rodrygo, who was thought to be unsettled at the Bernabeu.

The 24-year-old ultimately stayed put at Madrid, but has continued to play second-fiddle to Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr.

Rodrygo stats

The winger is without a goal in 13 LaLiga and Champions League appearances this season, having started just three of those games.

“I know him and we’ve met a couple of times, but I don’t know his situation with Arsenal,” Silva told talkSPORT.com, via Casino.Guru.

“At the beginning of the season, I thought it would be fantastic to have Rodrygo at the club.

“It is clear he will not have much of an opportunity to play under Xabi Alonso at Madrid, but he’s a great player with real talent, which is a waste if he is on the bench – but obviously there is big competition at Arsenal as well.”

Mikel Arteta’s side held exploratory talks with Rodrygo’s camp, but ultimately sought attacking reinforcements elsewhere.

Noni Madueke arrived for £52million from Chelsea, before his England teammate Eberechi Eze snubbed a switch to Tottenham for Arsenal.

Neither Leandro Trossard nor Gabriel Martinelli ended up leaving north London during the summer despite speculation beforehand.

However, Silva added that Arsenal should still try and make a play for Rodrygo if the opportunity does present itself.

Rodrygo has found gametime hard to come by under Alonso this season

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Bellingham previously described Rodrygo as the most talented in Madrid’s squad

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Rodrygo to Arsenal

Gabriel Magalhães described his countryman as a ‘phenomenon’, while Jude Bellingham claimed he is the most talented and most gifted player in the Real Madrid squad.

Silva added: “He’s got the ability to perform not only from the left side but in other positions across the forward line as well.

“Should Arsenal go in for him? Why not?

“If he’s not happy and there is an opportunity to increase the strength of the squad, then we can try and get him.

“The only question is, where would he fit? Maybe a few years ago, it would have been much easier to find a good player to fit that Arsenal squad.

“However, nowadays, even if you are a good player, it’s not so easy to find a starting place in this current team.”

Rodrygo has only started three matches for Real Madrid this season

Getty

Other suitors

Rodrygo has won three LaLiga and two Champions League titles with Madrid since signing in 2019, scoring 68 goals and assisting 53.

At the start of June, Los Blancos valued the Brazil international, who has a contract that runs until 2028, at €90m (£77m).

Rodrygo remains a long-standing Saudi Arabia target, but links with Chelsea and Spurs are wide of the mark, talkSPORT understands.

Arsenal, who still love the player, remain in a similar position due to the overall package with the squad depth they already have out wide.

Chelsea told incoming star dubbed ‘next Zlatan’ will fix glaring issue and be a massive hit

Joe Brophy — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 11:56:11 +0000

Future Chelsea star Emanuel Emegha has been backed to be a major hit after receiving his first senior call-up to the Netherlands.

The 22-year-old will join the Blues from sister club Strasbourg in 2026, to finally put an end to the glaring striker issue at Stamford Bridge.

Emegha will officially join Chelsea in 2026 from sister club Strasbourg

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Enzo Maresca is still waiting for a frontman to be the focal point of his attack, with Joao Pedro more suited to a No.10 role.

The Brazilian has scored in back-to-back Premier League games in November, but had endured a 10-game drought before that.

His chief competition, Liam Delap, is yet to score since returning from a two-month injury, while he got sent off against Wolves last month.

Emegha also started the season with a hamstring issue, but has picked up exactly where he left off under Liam Rosenior this term.

The Dutchman has netted six goals and registered two assists in his first eight games of the season for Strasbourg, which included a double in Sunday’s impressive 2-0 win over Lille.

As a result, Emegha has been called up by Netherlands boss, Ronald Koeman, for World Cup qualifiers against Poland and Lithuania.

European football expert Andy Brassell has told talkSPORT.com that it is all falling into place at the right time for Emegha.

He said: “Everything’s coming together for Emegha in that if he reaches the Premier League in 2026 and does well, he’s going to be the Netherlands starting forward for Euro 2028, that’s pretty clear.

“He’s still young, of course. But given his age, he’s got a decent amount of experience in French football.

“I think he’s a gifted leader of the line. He makes good runs. He’s strong. He’s a good finisher.”

Emegha has received a first senior call-up to the Netherlands squad

AFP

The young striker replaced Wout Weghorst

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Emegha vs Chelsea's strikers this season

Ligue 1 and Premier League only

Emanuel Emegha

Matches: 5

Goals: 4

Assists: 2

–

Joao Pedro

Matches: 11

Goals: 4

Assists: 3

Liam Delap

Matches: 4

Goals: 0

Assists: 0

Emegha dubbed ‘next Zlatan’

Maresca recently caused a stir with his scathing criticism of Delap’s ‘embarrassing’ and ‘stupid’ red card upon his return.

However, Emegha has continued to live up to his ‘next Zlatan’ tag by firing in the goals despite dealing with jibes from his own fans.

Brassell added: “He’s ridden out a lot of criticism that to some of the people around him seems unnecessarily harsh since he’s chosen to move to Chelsea.

“Everyone knew when he started playing well for Strasbourg that he would end up at Chelsea at some point because they have first dibs because it’s Strasbourg and he’s a player of very high quality.

“But I think the fact that he got given the captaincy and then a couple of weeks later he’s posing at Stamford Bridge with a Chelsea shirt, that upsets some Strasbourg fans.

Strasbourg captain Emegha was called a ‘pawn of BlueCo’

Getty

“I get it totally. I understand that, but after some Strasbourg ultras [during a 1-0 league win against Le Havre] put up a banner saying he was just a pawn of BlueCo, he was obviously a bit put out by that.

“So when he scored at Paris FC, he took his shirt off and pointed to the back of it and made quite a show of it and all the rest of it.

“Now, since then, he’s been partly marginalised because he’s been out of the team. Joaquin Panichelli has come in and played really, really well.

“The Argentinian centre-forward has got himself to top-scoring Ligue 1 status. Fantastic performance from him.

“When he scored those two goals at PSG, Panichelli, Liam Rosenior said it was the best centre-forward display that he’d seen in the flesh.

“Seeing as he’d been such a staunch defender of Emegha, that was quite interesting; it felt like they’d moved past Emegha a little bit.”

Emegha responded to the challenge of Panichelli (left) by scoring twice against Lille

AFP

Emegha will be a massive hit for Chelsea

“But then he comes back in the team, puts back on the captain’s armband and scores twice as they beat Lille at the weekend.”

“The second one from a really bad back pass by Olivier Giroud, who has not scored in the league since August, by the way.

“Really, I think that underlines not just Emegha’s quality, but the attitude that he has and the belief in himself that he has.

“That makes me think that he will be a massive success in the Premier League. Because these moments where he’s under scrutiny or he’s marginalised, he’s got the nuts to step up and say, ‘Yeah, okay, this is what I’m made of.’

“And he proves it every time, and it’s super impressive. And so he’s got a lot more to say in this season.

“Bear in mind whether he and Panichelli play together or not, I don’t think it really matters because I suspect Strasbourg will go pretty deep in the Conference League.

“So they’ll have plenty of games to play. But yeah, I see him being a massive hit for Chelsea.”

Liverpool legend claims Arne Slot should have followed Jurgen Klopp’s lead over summer transfers

Anton Stanley — Sun, 09 Nov 2025 14:17:52 +0000

Liverpool manager Arne Slot should have taken a different approach this season after signing seven superstars in the summer.

After spending a reported £446million on the transfers, the Dutchman immediately put four of those players into his starting XI.

Slot has had a difficult time, but gradually seems to be getting things right at Liverpool

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That’s despite Liverpool being the reigning champions with arguably the best midfield trio in the division.

In the season opener against Bournemouth, Florian Wirtz was played in the no.10 role, while Hugo Ekitike featured as the striker, with fellow new signing Alexander Isak not arriving until deadline day.

Meanwhile, full-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez were drafted straight into the team to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson, with Giorgi Mamardashvili on the bench.

Liverpool had a fine start to the domestic season, winning seven in a row in all competitions, but the new signings have all underperformed.

This has partially contributed to a collapse in form that saw them win only one of their next seven.

And Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher feels Slot should have learnt a lesson from Jurgen Klopp about how to introduce new players into a winning team.

“Looking at Liverpool in these last couple of weeks, there may be one valid criticism with hindsight would be about the manager,” Carragher told talkSPORT.

“Maybe he blooded too many of the signings too early, and it didn’t really help them as such.

“Maybe, even when you look back at what Jurgen Klopp did, especially with Andy Robertson initially, Andy Robertson didn’t actually play too much when he first signed, and he was sort of going to the Liverpool team around November, December.

“Maybe that would be the case with a few of the new signings as well, going forward.

Slot was forced to substitute Kerkez early against Burnley to ensure he wasn’t sent off during his initial struggles

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How Liverpool’s two left-backs stack up against one another in the Premier League

Liverpool’s defensive improvement

Liverpool’s defensive struggles in particular have been cause for concern, with 14 goals conceded this season before the clash with Man City.

Clean sheets in their last two games, against Aston Villa and Real Madrid, hint that those worries are easing.

And Carragher believes that’s down to Slot finally getting the balance right.

He added: “I don’t think you necessarily need the best defenders in the world to be strong defensively as a team. I always think defence is about the team. It’s about a back four. It’s about working together.

“It’s not about individuals playing their own game. It’s about working off each other. You mentioned Andy Robertson’s relationship with Virgil van Dijk. They will know each other a lot better than young Kerkez will with van Dijk.

“That’s just natural because he’s young into the team. I think the addition of Andy Robertson coming in, he definitely needed help last season, which probably wasn’t there.

Robertson has come in for Kerkez and started three straight games

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“Now with Kerkez coming in, I would say the one mistake that maybe Arne Slot made is he almost treated Andy Robertson like he was the [Kostas] Tsimikas-type of role so far this season. I think the rotation should have been a little bit more at times with Andy Robertson.

“But now it looks like he’s got the shape. But eventually Kerkez will get that back. I don’t think it’s right that Andy Robertson plays every game because he found that tough, as he did at times last season.

“So yeah, it looks like there’s a better balance right around the team.

What is Florian Wirtz’s best position?

Florian Wirtz has also struggled since his £116.5million transfer to Liverpool.

The German had been unable to find his feet in a no.10 role at Anfield but looked brighter off the left against Real Madrid in the Champions League.

And Carragher believes altering Wirtz’s role within Slot’s team will ultimately dictate his success in the Premier League.

He said: “It’s not a case of you buy something like Florian Wirtz and it doesn’t quite work where you maybe thought it would initially, which is maybe in a number 10 position.

“When you’ve paid that type of money, you have to make it work. You have to almost find a role. How do we get the best out of them?

“I think the majority of his best work for Germany and Bayer Leverkusen comes not as a left winger, but in the left half spaces, almost the left half of the pitch, if you like, in that attacking third.

“Now, if playing left midfield, inside left, not left wing, but inside left can work for him. And also, when you think of central midfield in the Premier League, there’s always at least six players in there, sometimes even eight, in such a small area of the pitch.

“Now, maybe in that position where he played against Real Madrid, there’s just that little bit more space for him.

“And as I said, I think he looks at his best when he’s sort of centre left, if you like. And yeah, I think that’s maybe somewhere where we can see him going forward, where you feel like he could actually fit into the team, actually, and there could be a role for him.”

‘No brainer’ – Barcelona will sign Marcus Rashford but set to make contract demand

Joe Brophy — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 11:38:08 +0000

Marcus Rashford underlined why Barcelona are so desperate to sign him permanently following another standout showing on Sunday.

The Manchester United loanee received a standing ovation from Barca fans after scoring again in a 3-1 win over Elche.

Rashford continued his recent run of goals

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It means the 28-year-old has now taken his tally across all competitions to six goals and seven assists in 14 outings this season.

His form has been rewarded by England boss Thomas Tuchel, who has continued to name him in recent squads ahead of the World Cup.

This is a far cry from the latter stages of his United career, which saw the forward fall out of favour under head coach Ruben Amorim.

He was subsequently loaned out to Aston Villa for the second half of the 2024/25 campaign before moving to Barca last summer.

Rashford agreed to a pay-cut in order for his dream move to go through, with Barcelona paying the entirety of his wages.

The 66-time England international will be paid around €10million [£8.6m] gross, including bonuses – a huge reduction from his £16.9m-per-year wages at United.

Barcelona WILL sign Rashford in the summer

talkSPORT understands Barcelona will have the option to make his switch permanent for around £30 million at the end of the season.

European football expert Andy Brassell has revealed they plan to do just that – provided Rashford accepts further salary adjustments.

“Yeah, they’re gonna make an honest man of him, it seems, and not just ask him to commit to another year’s loan, which I’ve always suspected would be the case for obvious financial reasons,” he told Danny Kelly’s Trans Euro Express podcast.

Rashford acknowledged the Barcelona fans who gave him a standing ovation

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He is outperforming all of Ruben Amorim’s options at Old Trafford

“I mean, look, in terms of what he’s actually produced while he’s there, it’s a no-brainer to want to keep him. He’s been absolutely brilliant.

“I think he’s been allowed a little bit more latitude by the fact that Raphinha’s been injured and has been a regular face in the crowd or on the sidelines, and starting argy bargy after El Clásico.

“But look, Rashford has fitted in really well. Hansi Flick‘s very pleased with him. He got another great goal, a terrific finish left-footed from an angle to see off the game against Elche, which they eventually won 3-1.

“Elche, tougher opposition than they might seem on paper.
And they have Iñaki Peña, the former Barcelona goalkeeper in goal, who had a really good game [on Sunday], I thought.

“And look, he’s clicking with their best players. He’s clicking with Lamine Yamal; he’s clicking really well with Fermín [López] as well.

“Barca look like they’re gonna score goals with Marcus Rashford in the team. It’s that simple.”

Rashford scored Barcelona’s third in their win over Elche

Barcelona make Rashford contract demand

Rashford has made no secret of his desire to extend his stay in Catalonia, having recently blamed the ‘inconsistent environment’ at Old Trafford for its part in his career struggles.

“I think the mutual happiness of the relationship so far is very important,” Brassell added.

“The fact that there is interest in Rashford, clearly, especially with a view to England and the World Cup next summer, in how he’s doing over here.

“But it does feel maybe from his perspective that there’s enough distance for him just to be able to get his head down and get on with the game without sort of, I guess, microscopic levels of attention.

Rashford is hoping the reigning Spanish champions will buy him permanently in June

“Clearly, working with Hansi Flick is a real bonus. Barcelona have got an option which is around, thought to be around 30, 35 million euros.

“As we’ve underlined, Barcelona don’t have tons of money, but I think when you bear in mind that they could amortise that over the length of a contract, that they are planning to give Rashford another pay cut, if he will accept it.

“Obviously, he’s already taken a pay cut to go there, but he is speaking their language, and I don’t mean Catalan.

“And I think the plan is that they will give him a longer contract with the same sort of money that he’s getting at the moment.

“So, it works out to be spread over a longer period of time, which is how they will make it work financially.

“And look, long may it continue. It’s good for England, it’s good for him, and we wanna see him doing his stuff.”

Rashford has reignited his career in Spain

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Not about the money for Rashford

Speaking in June before his loan move, Rashford highlighted his ability to play as a striker in an attempt to showcase his versatility.

The Man United academy graduate has since willingly waived some bonuses and image rights, which equate to around €10m a year in his pay packet to facilitate his switch to Barca.

It comes amid the LaLiga giant’s latest financial reports show the club have accrued a staggering transfer debt of £138million.

Brassell admitted that usually pay cuts don’t sit well with people – especially if they’re performing at the level of Rashford – but the winger has proved it’s about more than just the money.

He added: “It always feels to me when you talk to footballers and when you talk to people around footballers that it’s not actually the exact poundage or Euro-ish that matters.

“It’s not the money, it’s the respect it conveys.

“Actually, if you are taking a bit of a pay cut to play for Barcelona, you’re playing for Barcelona.

“That affords you incredible status amongst your peers.

“Already, it feels like he’s getting healthier, even if he might be taking a little bit of a financial hit for it.”

Jordon Ibe, 29, joins eighth-tier club on free transfer to ‘rediscover the joy of football’

Ciaran Wiseman — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 17:02:22 +0000

Jordon Ibe has joined the ninth permanent club of his professional career.

The 29-year-old has completed a move to eighth-tier side Sittingbourne in the Isthmian League South East Division.

Ibe made a surprise appearance for John Terry’s Baller League team in March

It follows his exit from fellow non-league outfit Hungerford Town, who play one level higher in the English football pyramid.

His return to Kent, having previously turned out for Ebbsfleet United, comes after Ibe saw a move to Sweden break down in the summer.

He had been set to join second-tier side Umea following a successful trial period.

However, the transfer fell through due to issues relating to his work permit.

Jordon Ibe signs for Sittingbourne

Ibe is now hoping to ‘rediscover the joy of football’ after previously battling depression earlier in his career.

Confirming his arrival, Sittingbourne said in a statement: “We’re proud to announce that Sittingbourne FC has been entrusted with supporting Jordon Ibe on his journey to rediscover the joy of football.

“After discussions between Jordon, his agent and the club, it was agreed that Sittingbourne provides the ideal environment with our recent successes and strong team culture to help him thrive again.

“Jordon was influenced by the many positive things he’s heard about the club and he believes this is the perfect place to rebuild momentum and showcase his talent.

“We’re delighted to play a part in helping him get back to where he belongs in the game.”

Former Liverpool star Ibe has joined an eighth-tier side on a free transfer

AFP

View Tweet: https://t.co/3IVf8z0NTs

Sittingbourne finished second last season before losing in the play-off final to Burgess Hill Town.

They also reached the quarter-finals of the FA Trophy, their best-ever performance in the competition, before losing to eventual winners Aldershot.

However, the Brickies currently find themselves ninth in the table following a 4-0 loss at Crowborough Athletic on Tuesday, although they do have games in hand on those above them.

Ibe will be hoping to feature for his new side when they host Croydon on Saturday afternoon.

Jordon Ibe’s career path

His move to Sittingbourne is the latest step in a nomadic career across both England and overseas.

Sittingbourne hope to help Ibe ‘rediscover the joy of football’ after his arrival

Rex Features

Ibe saw a move to Swedish side Umea fall through in August after a successful trial

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Jordon Ibe's career path

2011 – Wycombe
2011-16 – Liverpool
2014 – Birmingham (Loan)
2014-15 – Derby (Loan)
2016-20 – Bournemouth
2020-21 – Derby
2022 – Adanaspor
2023-24 – Ebbsfleet
2024-25 – Hayes & Yeading
2025 – Hungerford
2025-Present – Sittingbourne

The former Three Lions under-21 international joined Liverpool’s academy from Wycombe aged 16 back in 2011.

He went on to make 58 first-team appearances for the Reds, scoring four goals and adding seven assists.

Ibe was later sold to Bournemouth for £15million in 2016 before joining Derby and heading to Turkey for a spell with Adanaspor.

Since returning to English football two years ago, he has turned out in non-league for Ebbsfleet, Hayes & Yeading and Hungerford.

The forward also featured in the first season of Baller League UK earlier this year.

Ibe was part of John Terry’s 26ers side in the indoor football tournament.

Charlie Austin leaves seventh-tier club two months into fan-funded transfer

Connor Andrews — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 16:34:22 +0000

Charlie Austin’s fan-funded move to Basingstoke Town has come to an end after just two months.

The former Premier League regular initially joined the seventh-tier outfit in August, with his wages paid for by club supporters.

The former Premier League star has been playing in the seventh tier thanks to some generous fans

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Austin made four appearances for ‘Stoke, and scored on his debut; however, he suffered an injury against Hungerford Town.

The 36-year-old successfully lobbied for supporter payments for his salary to be immediately halted so that fans and members avoided paying for an inactive player.

Charlie Austin leaves Basingstoke Town FC after four games

Announcing Austin’s departure in a statement, ‘Stoke said: “We’d like to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made his time with us possible.

“The generosity, commitment, and sheer determination shown by our Members and supporters was really something.

“From the first conversations to the final details, people went above and beyond, giving their time, effort, and resources to make something, at least in our world, extraordinary happen.

“With Charlie’s history, it was a signing that never felt possible until we leaned on the generosity of our supporters.

“What followed became a shining example of what this football club stands for. Collective spirit and everyone playing their ‘small’ part in creating something bigger.”

The Hampshire side then informed fans what had happened with Austin’s wages, and gave a hint over his future.

They continued: “Contributors to Charlie’s wages have been kept up to date with developments throughout, and will know that supporter payments for his wages were halted once we became aware of Charlie’s injury, in line with his wishes.

Berkshire-born Austin will be moving back home, having also played as far away as possible previously

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“Charlie played in our opening three games, scoring once on his debut and setting up a goal where he also picked up an injury away at Taunton in our 1-1 draw.

“He played once more coming on against Hungerford Town where the injury sadly reoccurred.

“It’s our understanding that, following an approach, Charlie will be moving to a club much closer to his family home.

“We’d like to thank Charlie for his time at our club, scoring on his debut and that memorable assist away at Taunton.

“We wish him and his family all the very best for the future.”

He was released by Swindon Town in May 2024

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Charlie Austin’s football journey

Austin is best known for his time in the Premier League, where he scored a very respectable 34 goals in 111 matches for QPR, Southampton and West Brom.

Leaving the latter side in 2021, he returned to QPR in the Championship for two seasons before heading abroad for the first time by signing with Australian A-League side Brisbane Roar.

Austin only made 11 appearances down under, returning to England with Swindon Town in the fourth tier for two seasons.

Reaching his mid-30s, a typical retirement age for strikers, Austin kept joining with seventh-tier outfit AFC Totton and explained to talkSPORT why.

“Do you know what I think it comes down to? Family time. I wanted to spend more time with the family,” he said in August 2024.

Austin has contributed to talkSPORT on a number of different shows and subjects

talkSPORT

“My son is now eight, and he’s really into football, and I coach his team, do his training.

“I don’t want to miss out on that, but when I went to Brisbane, I enjoyed that.

“But when I came back, the last 18 months since I’ve come back, it has felt like football for me has kind of changed, the mindset.

“Respectfully, I was playing for Swindon in League Two and the problems that arose around the football club I wasn’t really used to.

“The people there were very different to the people I was used to, playing at other clubs, and I was just thinking to myself, ‘I don’t want this stress’.

“I don’t need this agg, I don’t need the politics that goes on in these football clubs, arguing over irrelevant things, really.

“For me, I’d rather just play part-time, enjoy time with a family, but join a football club that’s trying to have a go, understand where they are, but see it for what it is.”

‘Not a kid anymore’ – Arsenal target facing make-or-break season after ending 512-day goal drought

Joe Brophy — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 15:43:27 +0000

The phrase ‘like London buses’ is ironically the best way to describe Rafael Leao ending his goal drought in a make-or-break season.

The 26-year-old has now scored in back-to-back appearances at San Siro, having gone 512 days without finding the net at home in Serie A.

Leao has scored three goals in four games, with just two league starts

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Leao is returning to the type of form which saw him awarded the Serie A MVP award as the Rossoneri won their 19th Scudetto in 2022.

In 2022/23 the following year, the Portugal international registered his best league season in terms of goals as he netted 15 times.

However, he has failed to reach double digits in Serie A in each of the last two seasons, largely due to his epic struggles at San Siro.

Rafa Leao ends 512-day drought

Having netted the first of six goals in Milan’s 3-3 draw with Salernitana on May 25, 2024, the winger then went over 500 days without scoring in a league game in front of his home fans.

Leao’s miserable run finally came to an end against Fiorentina, with the Portuguese bagging twice in a 2-1 comeback win.

And as the saying goes, he then followed that up with another in Friday’s 2-2 draw with Pisa to rubber-stamp his return to top form.

Fittingly, Leao almost could have been seeing London buses in the flesh following continued summer links with a transfer to Arsenal.

talkSPORT reporter Ben Jacobs revealed the Gunners’ interest in Leao was separate from their pursuit of Eberechi Eze in August.

A move failed to materialise ultimately as neither Leandro Trossard nor Gabriel Martinelli departed.

Rafael Leao transfer news

Months later, Manchester United and Liverpool have been credited with an interest in Leao, who is now playing in a front two in attack.

Leao was visibly relieved to end his San Siro curse

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European football broadcaster Andy Brassell claimed that if it doesn’t click for Milan’s talisman this year, then it never might at the top level.

“I think we’ve only seen the best of Rafael Leao in tiny little bits,” he said during an exclusive interview with talkSPORT.com.

“And I guess it’s a shame because since he was MVP, Serie A MVP, it seems like he’s gone backwards because at that point he was dangerous, difficult to stop, pretty consistent as well. And from there, he’s really struggled.

“Certainly in terms of consistency, you look at him on his day and he looks like one of the best 15 players in the world.

Leao one of the best 15 players in the world

“He’s so, so good on his day. He’s big, he’s quick, the ball sticks to his feet. He can go inside or outside.

“He can score goals. There’s so much to him. And yet I just feel that in the last couple of years, we’ve only seen the best of him in little fits and starts for both Milan and Portugal, where he really should have nailed on with his ability, he should have nailed a first 11 place for Portugal. And he’s not nailed a first 11 place for Portugal.

Modric agrees with the high assessment

“Clearly, there is competition, but his ability is not something to be sniffed at. It’s really something special.”

On his 500-day-plus drought at San Siro, Brassell added: “It’s remarkable to me. How can a player of that sort of ability, who’s had some injuries, but not a major injury, not like a broken leg or an ACL or anything like that, or an Achilles, go that long without scoring, without making a decisive contribution at home?

“Sometimes we forget this because we watch so much football from all over the world on TV. But how you play in the home games matters. It really matters.

“It really affects the opinion of a fan base of season ticket holders. So the people who actually come to the stadium every week, it affects the way they look at you. Of course it does.

“If that’s what they see firsthand, is you promising but failing to deliver week after week after week for a year and a half, that’s really difficult to overcome because you need the support of those fans to get to your best level, I think, and to feel good when you come out in a home game.

Leao and Modric have struck up an instant understanding on the pitch

“Now, look, a lot’s changed for Leao, over the last year and a half. He’s become the father of twins. He’s clearly grown up in a great many ways. And he spoke recently about how he arrived at Milan as a boy and now he’s a man.

“A lot has changed. But with that, with the big new contract, which he’s rarely looked worth, if we’re being honest.

“Milan went a long way to first help sort out his situation from when he left Sporting. Of course, there was that thing at the training ground.

Leao needs to start paying Milan back – they’ve invested a lot in him

“So they helped him on a legal and financial and really a moral support level as well. They feel they’ve invested a lot in him, and since they helped him sort that mess out and since they signed him to a new contract, they’ve not got consistency out of it.

“Max Allegri is quite a disciplinarian, not really to be messed with, he’s got huge credit and huge status in Italian football,” Brassell continued.

“It’s a real challenge for him to come in, and of course, you’ve got that injury in the Coppa Italia match right at the start of the season, which put Leao out for a number of weeks.

“For him to now come back, and this is the moment where we start seeing if Allegri has really managed to get inside his head and if Allegri has really managed to get him to produce and do his best.

Cristiano Ronaldo will be counting on Leao to deliver at the World Cup next summer

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“I don’t think it’s always about effort. I think we sometimes see it as either a player makes an effort and is implicated, or he doesn’t and he’s not. I don’t think he’s like that.

Leao is not a kid anymore – it needs to work for him this season

“I think the psychology is a lot more complicated than that, and Rafa Leao has been through a lot in his career.

“But the fact is, now he’s not a kid anymore. They’ve invested a lot in him both financially and in other ways in terms of support as we’ve said. And this is the point at which he needs to start paying them back.

“This is a season in which he’s going to get plenty of R&R, unlike a lot of his contemporaries.

Leao has proven he can be a world-beater on his day

“He is going to get to rest in the weeks and to recuperate in between the league games because they’re not in Europe.

“So this is a great opportunity for him under a disciplined coach who demands discipline, who demands implication.

“If it doesn’t work for Rafa Leao this season, I don’t know in what European context or what European club context it will work for him.

“He needs to be the player this season that he was when he was MVP in Serie A.”

Real Madrid may have to sell £300m-rated star to get the best out of Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe

Joe Brophy — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 13:01:19 +0000

Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham inspired Real Madrid to victory over Barcelona – but not all of their teammates were celebrating.

The pair both got on the scoresheet to claim a 2-1 win in El Clásico as Xabi Alonso secured the bragging rights in the famous fixture.

Mbappe and Bellingham’s partnership continues to flourish

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Bellingham became the youngest player to score and assist in a match against Barcelona in the 21st century (22 years and 119 days).

In doing so, the England international surpassed the previous record set by Vinicius Junior (22 years and 267 days) in April 2023.

Ironically, that mirrors the current situation unfolding around the Brazilian amid his continued frustrations at life in Madrid.

Vinicius’ status as an undisputed starter at Los Blancos has come under threat this season, while contract talks have stalled.

The 25-year-old, whose current deal runs until June 2027, was benched for Madrid’s Champions League opener against Marseille.

He was also dropped for La Liga fixtures against Getafe and Oviedo, and had an angry reaction to being substituted against Barcelona.

A mark of his downturn has been that he was named as the second biggest transfer market loser after enduring a £26m value hit.

During an exclusive interview with talkSPORT.com last month, European football broadcaster Andy Brassell shared his doubts over the attacker’s suitability for Alonso’s system.

“I think the biggest question mark really is over the future of Vinicius Junior, who, is in the last two years of his contract now,” he said.

“Him and the club are quite a long way apart on numbers to the point where they are not talking at the moment. They are not talking in terms of [his] contract at the moment.”

Vinicius endured an El Clásico to forget

AFP

Vini Jr contract talks stall with Real Madrid

In late April, Vinicius was thought to have been close to reaching an agreement with the Spanish giants over penning fresh terms.

However, contract talks stalled in the summer, and Saudi dealmakers were linked with a world record £302m bid for his services in July.

Last month, talkSPORT football journalist Ben Jacobs reaffirmed that the Saudi Ministry of Sport are prepared to offer Vinicius Jr a world-record salary to leave Madrid.

Brassell has since raised the question of whether Los Blancos’ cashing in on their former talisman actually benefits Mbappe and Bellingham.

“Now, look, it’s different for Real Madrid than it is for other clubs because they are in a position where they’re the biggest name in world football,” he added to talkSPORT.com.

Vinicius’ tensions were laid bare at full-time

AFP

Selling Vini Jr benefits Mbappe and Bellingham

“They know they’re the biggest name in world football, and they can let other players’ contracts run down because they’re never going to be held over a barrel by another club.

“I mean, they can always turn around to a player and go, ‘OK, if you think you can get better than Real Madrid, go on then.’ And that’s fine.

“We’ve seen that with players like Xabi Alonso himself, like Mesut Ozil, like Angel Di Maria, run their contracts down to a level that for any other club would be dangerously low.

“But for them, they have a greater tolerance for brinkmanship because of the name they are and because of the status they’ve got in world football.

“So I’m not writing off Vini Junior’s relationship with Real Madrid just yet. But I think there has to be a question.

“If they’re not going to sell Rodrigo, and that’s still an if, by the way, do they have to sell Vini Junior? And actually, does it benefit Mbappe and Bellingham? I think there’s an argument that it does.”

Vini (left) may be sacrificed to help the long-term future of Bellingham and Mbappe

AFP

Alonso speaks out on Vinicius Junior’s strop

Vini Jr was substituted in the 72nd minute and instantly lost his head the second he saw his No.7 on the fourth official’s board.

Sulking all the way off the pitch only to be stonewalled by manager Alonso, he marched down the tunnel and disappeared.

However, when the full-time whistle blew, he appeared to clash with Lamine Yamal in spectacular post-match scenes.

Alonso said: “Vini’s character? There are different personalities in any dressing room.

“Right now we will enjoy the win, then we’ll have a conversation, for sure.”

‘Exceptional coach’ – Liam Rosenior has transformed £1.7m Chelsea flop into ‘new Marcelo’

Joe Brophy — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 13:00:12 +0000

Liam Rosenior’s Strasbourg revolution has been so impressive ─ his striker is top scorer and another could soon be worth £60million.

The 41-year-old’s stellar work developing promising young talents into emerging stars has transformed ex-Chelsea flop Diego Moreira.

Rosenior’s side drew 3-3 with PSG – having also beaten the Champions League winners last season

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The former EFL boss has continued to go from strength to strength in France since replacing Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira in July 2024.

His appointment came two months after he was sacked by Hull City, having narrowly missed out on the Championship play-offs.

The Tigers’ loss has been Strasbourg’s gain, after Rosenior oversaw a seventh-place finish, which earned Conference League qualification.

Last season’s stars Andrey Santos, Habib Diarra and Dilane Bakwa are all now part of Chelsea, Sunderland, and Nottingham Forest‘s squads.

In their absence, Rosenior was laden with 18 new arrivals, with Strasbourg the biggest spenders in France last summer at €127m.

Liverpool’s issues have shown that money isn’t always the instant recipe for success, but Le Racing have experienced no such downturn.

Strasbourg currently sit fourth in Ligue 1, two points off the top, having won six of their 10 games and drawn 3-3 with Paris Saint-Germain.

Rosenior described Joaquín Panichelli’s two-goal showing against PSG as ‘one of the best centre-forward performances I have seen live‘.

The 23-year-old, who has flourished in the absence of injured captain and Chelsea-bound Emanuel Emegha, is Ligue 1’s top scorer, having been languishing in the Spanish second tier last season.

European football broadcaster Andy Brassell told talkSPORT.com: “I think Rosenior is maybe a little bit modest because really, I think Panichelli is already the benefit of his coaching.

Panichelli (right) is currently top of the Ligue 1 scoring charts

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Ligue 1 Top Scorers

Joaquín Panichelli – Strasbourg (9 goals)

Mason Greenwood – Marseille (7 goals)

Sofiane Diop – Nice (6 goals)

Ansu Fati – Monaco (5 goals)

“What we have seen since Rosenior has been at Strasbourg is that he is not just an intelligent, engaging guy in front of the cameras.

“He’s an exceptional coach and developer of players. And we saw that with Diego Moreira, who was formerly at Chelsea, who has really been transformed under Rosenior.

“He was someone who went out from Chelsea on loan to Lyon, looked absolutely nowhere near ready for top-flight football.

“Then a year later, he goes to Strasbourg, and all of a sudden, he’s one of the best wing-backs in the league because he changes his position.

“He’s so good, not just with the ball, but without the ball as well. His defensive awareness is fantastic now.

“In terms of scoring and creating, the runs he makes, the awareness that he’s got when Strasbourg are out of possession, all of those parts of his games, really, Rosenior has absolutely transformed him. It’s amazing.”

Moreira (far right) has been a revelation under Rosenior

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Chelsea blow after not including buy-back clause for ‘new Marcelo’

Moreira promises to be the first transfer mistake of the Blues’ symbiotic relationship with their fellow BlueCo-owned club.

Santos and Djordje Petrovic excelled for Chelsea’s sister side last season, with Mamadou Sarr, Mike Penders and Kendry Paez hoping to enjoy similar experiences at Strasbourg this term.

However, Moreira, who has been dubbed the ‘new Marcelo’, was sold for a paltry £1.7m without a similar type of buy-back clause involved in the deal between the two clubs for Mathis Amougou.

Brassell added that the 21-year-old’s success could see Strasbourg vie to challenge Borussia Dortmund as the future elite finishing school.

“Football’s a small community, people talk, and people who have been coached by Rosenior are going to go to their mates and their mates, [and say] ‘Mate, this guy has changed my game. This guy has really helped me develop and go on to the next level’”, he added.

He grabbed a goal and an assist in the 3-3 draw with PSG

Moreira made just one competitive appearance for Chelsea

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“Now, I think you’ve seen that with Dilane Bakwa, who got his big move to Nottingham Forest as well.

“You’ve seen what happened with Andre Santos, and he’s now considered ready to start Premier League games – not all of them, but he’s ready to start Premier League games in a Chelsea squad, which is particularly stacked in midfield.

“So everything that Rosenior has done since he’s been there is so, so impressive.”

Brassell continued: “Strasbourg have got a great opportunity not just to make the Champions League this year, but maybe to make the Champions League in subsequent years. So I think that makes them an incredibly attractive prospect to young players.

“Now, we’ve spoken at various other times, are Dortmund a genuine developer, for example, of young players still? Are Monaco still a club where you feel, as a young player, you can develop?

“If you think of the competition there is for players in their late teens or 2021, for those teams that are not quite elite level teams who say, well, if you come to us for a couple of years, we’re your finishing school to reach elite football.

Emegha will join Chelsea next summer

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Rosenior’s Strasbourg project shows no signs of slowing down

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“You come and play for us for a couple of years, and then you go to Chelsea or you go to Real Madrid or you go to Man City or Barcelona or Liverpool or wherever else.

“I think if you’re Strasbourg, you’re probably in quite a good position, particularly while Rosenior’s the coach, to say, ‘Come to us, we’ll make you into that guy’.

“Strasbourg, with the resource they’ve got, with the setup they’ve got, with the current condition of French football financially, I think they’ve got a unique opportunity to carve themselves a little niche here, and to maybe even go ahead of Monaco and say, this is the place as a top young player you should be.

“Obviously, over time, that makes them self-sufficient as well. If they get in Diego Moreira for cents on the dollar, and then all of a sudden they can sell him a couple of years down the line for 40, 50, 60 million, whatever. I mean, that’s some model, right?”

Bayern Munich ‘regret’ selling Ryan Gravenberch – but they deserve credit for ‘best No.6 in the league’

Joe Brophy — Sun, 19 Oct 2025 13:09:53 +0000

Ryan Gravenberch’s struggles at Bayern Munich sparked fears he might be a lost talent – but it made him the player he is today.

The Dutch midfielder has lived up to the ‘new Frank Rijkaard’ label that was once a burden upon him after flourishing at Liverpool.

Gravenberch started 37 out of 38 league matches last season, as Liverpool were crowned champions

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The 23-year-old has been the Premier League champions’ best player this season, having been dubbed the best No.6 in the top-flight.

Former Liverpool star Danny Murphy has gone one step further by claiming Gravenberch is the standout all-around midfielder.

It marks a remarkable turnaround for the latter, who saw his fortunes completely transformed by Arne Slot‘s arrival at Anfield in 2024.

Gravenberch’s Bayern Munich struggles

Gravenberch was hailed as ‘one of the biggest talents in Europe’ by Bayern’s former sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic two years prior.

The Netherlands international had just completed a £21million move from Ajax. but made just six starts for the Bavarians.

Despite this, European football broadcaster Andy Brassell claimed Gravenberch had become a better player than he had been at Ajax.

He exclusively told talkSPORT.com: “The reason that Gravenberch ended up at Bayern was, it wasn’t so much of a planned signing.

“He had a year left on his Ajax contract. And they just thought, ‘Oh, yeah, we could need a young midfield player and there’s an opportunity.’

“It never felt like they had a plan for him at all. Now, bear in mind that Bayern are quite chaotic at the time.

Gravenberch scored a stunner to help Liverpool to a Merseyside derby victory over Everton and has been one of the Reds’ outstanding players under Arne Slot

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He made a name for himself at Ajax

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“They’re still working out at that time whether they want their central midfield to be [Joshua] Kimmich and [Leon] Goretzka, who are very, very difficult to get past. There’s no doubt about that. And they were having doubts over that and thinking they needed more of a dedicated six.

“Kimmich, because of his wing-backish leanings, even though he doesn’t enjoy playing right back, lends himself to a slightly freer role than that. And he’s got attacking attributes that you want to make the most of.

“That kind of leads them to this long-term pursuit of Joao Palhinha, who doesn’t really work out, but is the player they want and the player they end up eventually getting.

“Now, with Gravenberch, because they get him as an opportunity rather than a planned signing, he’s an afterthought.

“I don’t think they really put that much into his development. But we talked before about Hugo Ekitike and how much he learned from an unfavourable situation at PSG – it’s kind of the same with Gravenberch at Bayern.

“He goes there and he quickly realises that it’s going to be hard for me to get a game. There’s not really a role here. And he’s still very young.

England manager Thomas Tuchel rarely put his trust in Gravenberch

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“He’s still developing as a player. At that point, it looks like Gravenberch is going to be more of an attacking midfielder.

“Given that Bayern play with wingers a lot as well, I think there’s a doubt whether he fits that system.

“You look at the fact they’ve got the two big guys, as we said, still ruling the roost, and it’s quite difficult to fit him in,

“I think, especially when he was coming out of a position where he wasn’t one of Ajax’s very best players. He’s a good player, but certainly a player where it felt like Bayern was a surprise. It felt like it was a bit of a leap for him. And so it proved in the end.”

*Ryan Gravenberch’s stats at Bayern Munich*	*Ryan Gravenberch’s stats at Bayern Munich*
Games: 34	Games: 95
Goals: 1	Goals: 6
Assists: 1	Assists: 8
Minutes played: 947	Minutes played: 6,738
Trophies won: 2	Trophies won: 2

How much did Liverpool pay for Gravenberch?

He was rescued by Liverpool on deadline day 2023 for £34m, but completed just one full 90 minutes under Jurgen Klopp.

Slot’s subsequent failure to sign now-Arsenal star Martin Zubimendi saw him turn to Gravenberch to play the role, and the rest is history.

Gravenberch’s success as a holding midfielder has reportedly caused a wave of ‘regret’ to sweep over his old club, Bayern Munich.

But Brassell argued that the Bundesliga champions still got a great deal and deserve credit for their part in his development.

“The way he’s been able to adapt at Liverpool firstly says that Bayern have done some sort of decent job with him, even if it wasn’t enough to get them into their first team,” he told talkSPORT.

“It’s developed him in a way. He’s a much better player than he was at Ajax by the time he arrived at Liverpool, simply through playing a few games and training with Bayern the whole time.

“Obviously, there’s enormous experience on their coaching staff, whatever the particular era that they’re in. There are senior players who you can learn from.

“You think of Kimmich himself, Goretzka, Thomas Müller, so many other players you can learn off.

“Really, Bayern get a really good deal out of it because they sell Gravenberch for two and a half times what they bought him for.

Gravenberch trained alongside some of Europe’s elite at Bayern

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“So really, they got an OK deal out of it to pick up a player, not quite on a whim, but really not as part of a long-term project. As more of a, let’s buy this guy and see if we can mould him into something.

“It turns out he finds it quite difficult to fit in the team, and they find it quite difficult to fit him in the team.

“Then to turn him into two and a half times what you spent on him when you figured out he’s not what you’re looking for.

“That feels pretty good to me.”

‘He’s not quite that yet’ – Harvey Elliott told what he needs to do to finally earn England chance

Joe Brophy — Sun, 19 Oct 2025 09:43:55 +0000

Michael Owen has praised Harvey Elliott as ‘a very good player’ but revealed why he wouldn’t have him in the England squad just yet.

Elliott would have expected to have been on the cusp of a senior breakthrough after his starring role for the Young Lions last summer.

Elliott was the star man for England U21s

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The 22-year-old was named the player of the tournament as Lee Carsley‘s side earned a second consecutive European title in Slovakia.

Elliott scored five goals – second only to Newcastle’s record signing, Nick Woltemade – as he defended the trophy he helped win in 2023.

His standout success fuelled his ambition to leave boyhood club Liverpool after falling down the pecking order under Arne Slot.

Elliott was given just six starts in all competitions for the Reds last season, and ultimately joined Aston Villa on deadline day.

The midfielder moved on an initial loan with a £35million obligation to buy based on appearances included in the deal.

Despite scoring Villa’s first goal of the season in their Carabao Cup exit to Brentford last month, he has only played around a quarter of the available Premier League minutes.

He was hauled off at half-time during his one top-flight start at Villa Park, and now faces a race against time to impress Thomas Tuchel.

On Elliott, former England and Liverpool striker Owen told talkSPORT, via casino.co.uk: “On paper, it looked like a good move.

“Obviously, you’re stepping down slightly from Liverpool. However, you’re still playing for a very good team, and you would have thought that the whole point of moving from Liverpool was to get more game time.

“He’s not necessarily been starting every single game just yet for Villa. Ultimately, if you’re not playing super regularly, then it’s hard to imagine that you’re going to get a call-up for England.”

GettyElliott has been waiting for his opportunity at Aston Villa[/caption]

The 22-year-old hasn’t got the Premier League gametime he would have wanted yet

Harvey Elliott stats

Before the international break, Elliott was only afforded a late cameo in the Europa League win over Feyenoord but remained an unused substitute in the 2-1 victory against Burnley.

Unai Emery claimed he needs time to learn to adapt to Villa’s style of play, but the timing of his infrequent appearances couldn’t be worse.

Tuchel left out three of Elliott’s competition at No.10 this month in Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and Jack Grealish, with Cole Palmer also injured.

However, his struggles to hit the ground running under Emery meant a golden opportunity to make his senior debut went begging.

Owen added: “I like Harvey Elliott, he’s a very good player and I hope he’s picked the right club.

Elliott made the difficult decision to leave Liverpool

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“He’s made contributions since he’s been there so far, so let’s just give him a little bit of time. It’s only been six or seven games, as we know.

“If I was the England manager, I wouldn’t have him in the England team just yet.

“I think he’s got to be one of the star players at Villa to be doing that, and he’s not quite that yet. But as I say, let’s see how the season progresses.”

Harvey Elliott transfer

Elliott has been itching to showcase regularly why Jurgen Klopp was so desperate to sign him for Liverpool as a 16-year-old in 2019.

Three months after joining, he became the then-second youngest debutant in Liverpool’s history in an EFL Cup tie at MK Dons.

At the start of the 2021-2022 season, Elliott broke into Klopp’s first team, starting each of the first three Premier League matches.

However, a dislocated ankle sustained in a 3-0 win at Leeds hampered his progress, and he has played only bit-part roles since.

An injury suffered at the start of the Slot era last season kept him out until December, by which time Liverpool were top of the league.

Upon his exit, Mo Salah posted on social media: “I’ve got no doubt you’ll do big things at your new club. They are lucky to have you.”

EFL club handed England £70m World Cup boost – but Eddie Howe decision ‘cost them Championship football’

Joe Brophy — Sat, 18 Oct 2025 11:44:29 +0000

Eddie Howe caused a stir by admitting he would ‘love’ to have Elliot Anderson back – and he’s far from the only one of his old clubs.

The Newcastle United boss sold the club’s academy graduate to Nottingham Forest in July 2024 for £35million to comply with PSR.

Boyhood Toon fan Anderson had to leave to help Newcastle avoid a possible points deduction

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He is now of the Premier League’s best midfielders

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To add insult to injury, Forest effectively paid only £15m, given Odysseas Vlachodimos moved in the opposite direction for £20m.

Anderson featured in 37 of the Tricky Tree’s 38 Premier League games last season, helping to qualify for European football for the first time since the 1995/96 campaign with a seventh-place finish.

Now, the four-cap England star is worth over double his original fee, with Manchester City and Chelsea said to be plotting a £75m bid.

Earlier this month, Howe publicly admitted he would ‘love’ to have Anderson back at Newcastle, claiming he never wanted to sell him.

However, there will be little sympathy for the Toon manager’s plight from Bristol Rovers president Wael Al-Qadi.

The Gas are the only other club Anderson has played for in his young career, having taken the midfielder on a transformative loan in 2022.

The 22-year-old had only made two senior appearances for the Magpies when he joined the side in 12th in the League Two table.

In a stunning 21-game spell, Anderson scored eight goals and set up five more, with Rovers only losing three of the matches he played.

The then-teenager won both the EFL Young Player and EFL League Two Player of the Month awards in April 2022, having also claimed the division’s goal of the month prize that March.

Anderson then capped off his Rovers stint on the final day of the season to help the club seal automatic promotion on goal difference.

Bristol Rovers still hold former loan star Anderson in extremely high regard

Anderson scored the seventh and decisive strike in a 7-0 win over Scunthorpe to ensure the Gas edged out Northampton Town, with the club’s fanbase still following his meteoric rise three years later.

“The feeling is the feeling of being proud and happy to be associated with such a player who we believe is going to be one of the greats,” Rovers president Wael Al-Qadi exclusively told talkSPORT.com.

“Our fans follow him like crazy because they were also part of his journey, and it’s a continuing journey, and they follow every second of his life. It’s incredible, really. It’s a beautiful story.

“I know his parents very well. Such a lovely family and his brothers. Very supportive, very down to earth, lovely, lovely people, really.

“You could see why he’s going to be successful because he’s so grounded and he has a beautiful family around him.

“It’s just really, really glad for them to see how successful he’s becoming.”

Anderson made his senior England debut in September, but now is a core part of Tuchel’s team

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Elliot Anderson stats vs Latvia

Touches

Total – 150
Match rank – 1st

Passes

Total – 130
Match rank – 1st

Passes in final third

Total – 80
Match rank – 1st

Final third entries

Total – 19
Match rank – 1st

Possession won

Total – 11
Match rank – 1st

Duels won

Total – 7
Match rank – 1st

Tackles

Total – 4
Match rank – 1st

Interceptions

Total – 3
Match rank – 1st

Elliot Anderson at Bristol Rovers

Unfortunately for Rovers, the club were unable to follow Anderson’s rapid rise to the top after suffering relegation in April.

The Pirates were desperate to get the ‘Geordie Maradona‘ back to front their League Push ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.

Yet an injury to Jonjo Shelvey and an impressive performance in pre-season meant Howe decided against letting Anderson leave again.

The latter was handed a new long-term contract, but made just three Premier League starts under Howe that year.

Anderson was never a first-team regular under Howe before he was sold to Forest

“I wanted him to come back,” Al-Qadi added to talkSPORT. “And he was begging Newcastle to send him back.

“We, of course, wanted him back. We were trying our hardest to get him back. But unfortunately, Eddie Howe…he liked to hoard players.

“He kept him up at Newcastle and didn’t play him that season. Not much, basically.”

Then-manager Joey Barton later attributed the Pirates’ struggles to compete in League One after losing the ‘Lionel Messi of League Two.’

Al-Qadi has gone one step further by claiming Rovers would have reached the Championship had Anderson been allowed to return.

‘Bristol Rovers would be in the Championship’

“Honestly, if we had him back in League One, we would have been in the Championship with him,” he claimed.

“Absolutely [we would have reached the Championship with Anderson]. Because he’s so versatile.

“Attacking-wise, on the wing, attacking midfielder, number 10. He’s just brilliant, his fitness, his physicality, his height, his dribbling, his feet, his shooting.

“What’s funny is that when he made it eventually, at Forest, he wasn’t playing that far up front.

“He was more sitting, wasn’t he? Which was, for me, a bit baffling. Because his strength is his attacking side, I think.”

Anderson drew comparisons to a teenage Maradona by his manager, Barton

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Elliot Anderson’s position change

At the City Ground, Anderson has starred in a deeper midfield role, where he has also played in each of his four England appearances.

The Rovers president continued: “Honestly, if you were to tell me he’d be a holding midfielder, I’d be like, ‘You don’t know what you’re talking about.’ Because he’s just incredible at the top end of the pitch.

“Scoring goals, assisting, trickery, dribbling, crossing. It’s just that’s where we saw him. For him to be holding midfielder is a bit strange.

“But he excelled at it. And that’s what we’re talking about. The talent is just in abundance there.”

Anderson is not the only England talent Rovers can feel proud of helping develop, with Jarell Quansah also in the most recent camp.

The defender played 16 times on loan at Bristol Rovers in 2023, which provided the springboard for him to break through at Liverpool.

Quansah made 58 appearances across two seasons at Anfield following his loan in BS7, before joining Bayer Leverkusen for £35m.

“For us to think that this guy was playing for us a year and a half ago and he was sold for 40 million, it’s mind-boggling.

“Again, it’s crazy numbers, especially at the level where we’re at. But, hey, that’s football, isn’t it?

“That’s why we are vital to the pyramid, because we can develop players and give them an opportunity, not only with Elliot Anderson.

The pair were both part of the England side that beat Germany in a five-goal thriller to retain their U21 European title

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“We’re a third of the way to a whole England team here [with England U21 and West Brom goalkeeper Josh Griffiths,” Al-Qadi joked.

“That doesn’t come from luck. I’m not going to take any credit for this, but we had excellent managers and people working, backroom staff who could identify these types of players and bring them in with their connections and networks.

“That’s what you need, people who know what they’re doing, basically.”

Real Madrid have three centre-backs in mind but William Saliba was never one of them

Joe Brophy — Sat, 18 Oct 2025 10:07:07 +0000

William Saliba staying at Arsenal amid interest from Real Madrid wasn’t a surprise – they don’t roll out the red carpet for defenders.

That is the verdict from European football broadcaster Andy Brassell, who believes three other centre-backs are better value for money.

Mikel Arteta was overjoyed to tie down Saliba for his peak years

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Los Blancos manager Xabi Alonso made revamping the club’s defence his primary objective in the transfer market last summer.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen and Álvaro Carreras all arrived in Spain, but another centre-back remains high on the wish list.

Reports in Saliba’s homeland emerged earlier this year that the Frenchman was a priority target for Real Madrid.

However, the 24-year-old ended the debate surrounding his long-term future by signing a new contract with Arsenal late last month.

When asked if that news came as a surprise to those in Madrid, Brassell told talkSPORT.com: “Well, if we look historically at the sort of players that the red carpet’s really rolled out for, it’s not defenders – However good they are.

“I remember Patrick Vieira almost went to Real Madrid in 2004, and he turned around afterwards and said, his heart made him stay at Arsenal.

“I think the fact that Florentino Perez said to him he wasn’t going to pay him on the same level as the Galacticos probably played into it as well.

“I’m not accusing Vieira of any avarice or anything like that, but with football, it’s never really just about the money. It’s about the respect that that money implies. And clearly, that was something that he couldn’t get over.

“He probably looked and thought, well, yeah, okay, I could be the next Claude Makélélé, but not in a good way — undervalued, underappreciated by the people in the boardroom.

“Obviously, Makélélé was loved by his teammates, but didn’t feel as if he was getting enough love from the board. And that’s what really provoked his move to Chelsea.

“But the Saliba thing is, it’s not a massive surprise.”

Mbappe, in contrast, was officially unveiled as a Madrid player in a presentation at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

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Madrid rolls out the red carpet for attacking stars like Cristiano Ronaldo

AFP

Saliba to Real Madrid link overplayed

Upon signing his new Arsenal deal, Saliba admitted he feels the club are well-placed to push on, which was a key factor in him staying.

Brassell added: “It’s not a massive surprise. One, because he’s been doing great at Arsenal.

“Two, because it always kind of felt that the interest, to what extent it was firm interest, I’m not quite sure.

“I sense that Saliba’s agents were thickening it up a bit to accelerate negotiations with Arsenal.

“But more recently, the reason that Saliba to Real Madrid hasn’t seemed like a goer is because of the freebies that are on the market going forward.”

Real Madrid target Guehi, Upamecano and Konate on free transfers

The La Liga giants have identified a trio of defensive reinforcements, with Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba in the final year of their deals.

The pair were both success stories of Madrid’s free agent strategy, which also saw them finally land Kylian Mbappe.

It all but paid dividends in their pursuit of Alexander-Arnold as well, albeit the club ended up paying an £8.4million fee to get him early.

Konate is close friends with France teammate Mbappe

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His former Liverpool teammate, Ibrahima Konate, could now follow him to the Bernabeu to link-up with another close friend, Mbappe.

The defender has entered the final year of his deal at Anfield and can sign a pre-contract agreement with overseas clubs in January.

Ironically, Marc Guehi, who saw a £35m switch to Liverpool fall through on deadline day, has been named another Madrid target.

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has admitted the England star will leave the club after deciding not to renew his contract, which expires in June 2026.

Konate’s compatriot Dayot Upamecano has also caught Madrid’s attention due to his similar contract situation at Bayern Munich.

Guehi is becoming an increasingly attractive option for Real Madrid

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Madrid wishlist better value for money

“I struggle to believe all three because I think we look at Real Madrid’s wage bill and they’ve brought it down significantly in the last five to six years,” Brassell continued.

“There are some big earners who have left, and they’ve set limits on what they wanna pay people. Of course, Kylian Mbappe took a pay cut to go to Real Madrid.

“I think if you could take, say, even two of those three, of Guehi, Upamecano and Konate, why would you go out and engage in a really tough transfer battle with Arsenal?

“You just wouldn’t do it, would you? I think you’re getting better value for money elsewhere, and value for money actually really matters to Real Madrid in the modern world.”

New transfer policy is the secret behind record number of Dutch players in Premier League

Joe Brophy — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 14:01:37 +0000

Dutch football academies have looked to the Premier League to maintain their status as the elite developers of European talent.

England’s top-flight has never been so armed with stars from the Netherlands, and a change in Eredivisie policy is the reason why.

Only three players from the Netherlands’ 4-0 win over Finland play outside the Premier League

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Premier League champions Liverpool currently boast a quartet of Oranje players, in addition to their Dutch manager, Arne Slot.

Captain Virgil van Dijk headlines a list of Ryan Gravenberch, Cody Gakpo, and Jeremie Frimpong – the latter who ironically came through the academy ranks in England with Manchester City.

City themselves now boast Tijjani Reijnders, who has featured the most of any player under Pep Guardiola since his summer arrival.

Tottenham have linked up Xavi Simons and Micky van de Ven at club level, with Jurrien Timber a key figure at north London rivals, Arsenal.

Manchester United have Mattijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee, while Chelsea also got in on the action by capturing Joel Hato from Ajax.

Even newly-promoted Sunderland completed a double switch for Dutch players in the form of Lutsharel Geertruida and Brian Brobbey.

European football journalist Andy Brassell has explained that Dutch clubs are aware of schooling starlets to be Premier League suitable.

The renowned Ajax system, famous for its ‘TIPS’ model (Technique, Insight, Personality, Speed), can now add physicality to that list.

“Ajax are well known over nearly 50 years of shaping players who are versatile and adaptable,” Brassell explained to talkSPORT.com.

“But what they’re also good at and what they’ve been really good at in recent years is developing players who are more physical.”

Another influx of £100m-plus Dutch talent joined the Premier League last summer

All 36 Dutch Premier League Football Players

Liverpool
Virgil van Dijk
Ryan Gravenberch
Cody Gakpo
Jeremie Frimpong

Tottenham
Xavi Simons
Micky van de Ven

Arsenal
Jurriën Timber

Manchester City
Tijjani Reijnders
Nathan Aké

Chelsea
Jorrel Hato

Manchester United
Matthijs de Ligt
Joshua Zirkzee
Tyrell Malacia

Newcastle United
Sven Botman

Bournemouth
Justin Kluivert

Brighton
Bart Verbruggen
Jan Paul van Hecke
Mats Wieffer
Joël Veltman

Aston Villa
Ian Maatsen
Donyell Malen
Lamare Bogarde
Marco Bizot

Brentford
Sepp van den Berg
Antoni Milambo

West Ham United
Crysencio Summerville

Sunderland
Brian Brobbey
Lutsharel Geertruida
Robin Roefs

Burnley
Quilindschy Hartman
Zian Flemming
Jaydon Banel

Leeds United
Joël Piroe
Pascal Struijk

Fulham
Kenny Tete

Wolverhampton Wanderers
Ki-Jana Hoever

Why is Dutch football developing more physical players?

“Well, it’s because Dutch football over a number of years has reacted to the financial hierarchy of European football as it is now and thought we need to develop players who we can sell,” Brassell continued.

“Who are the richest clubs? Premier League clubs. So we need players, they think.

“Bryan Roy told me this, and Frank de Boer told me this separately, that you need players who are going to be physically ready to play.

“They need to be physically ready quicker to deal with first-team football because sales mean we have to replace first-teamers with young players earlier than we would ideally like to.

“Also, when we get to sell those players, who do we want to sell them to? We want to sell them to Premier League teams.”

There is a record 36 Dutch players in the Premier League this season

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Portuguese football is going in the same direction

Alongside the influx of Dutch stars, the Portugal-to-England pipeline has been a key part of the transfer market in the past decade.

One of Benfica or Sporting (and sometimes both) facilitates a big-money exit to the Premier League, either directly or via a club in between with sell-on clauses attached nearly every year.

Arsenal’s capture of Viktor Gyokes followed Bruno Fernandes in 2019-20, Matheus Nunes to Wolves [now City] in 2022-23, Pedro Porro to Tottenham Hotspur in 2023-24, and Manuel Ugarte [to Paris Saint-Germain; now Man United].

Benfica, meanwhile, got Burnley to sanction a club-record obligation for Florentino Luis in August, to follow the likes of Enzo Fernández, Darwin Núñez, and Rúben Dias‘ transfers.

Brassell told talkSPORT: “Portuguese football is going in this direction as well, because it’s a second-tier league where they have to sell to survive, and what they need to do is they need to sell one or two big players.

Gravenberch started 37 out of 38 league matches last season, as Liverpool were crowned champions

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Jurrien Timber is an influential part of Arsenal’s backline

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“You don’t aspire to sell players to Serie A and La Liga because those clubs don’t have the money.

“You want to put players out there who have not just got the traditional Dutch technical skill set that you would expect from 50 years of history.

“They want players who are going to be physically able enough to cut it in the Premier League pretty quickly.

“Tijjani Reijnders is another really good example of that. Someone who is not 6 feet 4, but someone who is strong, powerful, and can get through loads of running.

“You see the way he’s adapted to the Premier League really, really quickly.

“That’s an example of the sort of players that Dutch football produces and aims to produce these days, even when you get to Ajax, that’s one of the most famous academies, if not the most famous academy in the world.”

Tijjani Reijnders made a flying start to life at Man City

Record number of Dutch players in Premier League

13 of the Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman’s 25-man squad for the September international break are based in the Premier League.

Overall, a record 36 Dutch players are at Premier League clubs.

“It’ll be even easier if they all play in the Manchester and Liverpool area. We only have to go there then,” Koeman recently joked.

‘Bigger clubs out there’ – Antoine Semenyo can do better than Tottenham, he starts for Arsenal and Liverpool

Joe Brophy — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 09:46:33 +0000

Antoine Semenyo’s private coach says it is just a matter of time until the ‘box office’ Bournemouth star goes to one of the big clubs.

However, talkSPORT’s Gabby Abonglahor has warned suitors Tottenham Hotspur that it won’t be to them for one key reason.

Spurs were heavily interested in a move for Semenyo last summer – as previously revealed in Alex Crook’s transfer notebook.

The Ghanian held talks with the Lilywhites and Manchester United before opting to sign a new deal at Bournemouth.

Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes is also a big admirer, having signed Semenyo for the Cherries from Bristol City for £10.5million in January 2023.

Despite his new contract, the Ghana international’s goal-laden start to the season has meant interest from the elite remains.

The winger has six direct goal involvements in the Premier League this season [six goals, three assists] – only Erling Haaland has more with ten [nine, one] – and Bournemouth value him at north of £75m.

Private coach, Saul Isaksson-Hurst, who also works with Arsenal’s Noni Madueke, said of Semenyo: “He’s just sensational. Box-office player.

“He’s got the pace, the power, the athleticism, but with the ball. That’s what he’s elite with. He can go left, he can go right.

“His ball striking is unbelievable. He’s just box-office.

“Even the guys who work with me, like the ‘keepers and people who help me with the sessions, they’re like, ‘Wow, this guy’s the real deal’.

“He does stand out, he’s top. He’s just electric. His consistency with his ball striking on the move, with his left and right foot, is just unbelievable. He opens his foot; he almost knuckle-balls it. With that control at full speed, it’s sensational.”

Semenyo is just one goal contribution away from double figures after just seven Premier League matches

Semenyo contract clause

Semenyo does have a release clause in his Bournemouth deal, as revealed by talkSPORT’s chief football correspondent, Alex Crook.

The exact terms of which are being kept under wraps as Andoni Iraola‘s side want to retain their star man for as long as possible.

Isaksson-Hurst admitted his client was unfortunate not to secure a big-money transfer last summer, while his former teammates secured moves to the likes of Real Madrid, PSG and Liverpool.

However, the individual skills development coach claimed it’s only a matter of time before Semenyo secures his dream move.

“He creates goals, he scores goals, he does everything,” Isaksson-Hurst added to Thursday’s talkSPORT Breakfast.

“On the training pitch, he really did blow me away. He has that mentality, has the speed, has the quality.

“He’s one of the most exciting players in the Premier League at the moment. He’s a Champions League player for me, straight away.

“He has all the qualities in terms of the technical attributes, the physical attributes, has the mentality, wants to be the best, wants to work hard.

“I think he was unlucky not to get a move in the summer.

“I think it’s come out of the press today, he’s got a release clause. I think it’s just a matter of time until he goes to one of the big clubs.”

Semenyo scored twice against Liverpool in this season’s Premier League opener – now the Reds are among the top clubs keen on signing him

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Semenyo starts for every Premier League club

Abonglahor was also effusive in his praise of Semenyo, who has been pivotal to Bournemouth’s best-ever start to a Premier League season.

The 25-year-old was hailed ‘world-class’ by teammate Justin Kluivert following his starring role in the 3-1 comeback win over Fulham.

Semenyo did twice get his side level against Liverpool on the first night of the season at Anfield – despite suffering racist abuse.

He scored the winner from the penalty spot to down Brighton last month, before his free-kick helped bag a point at Leeds.

“I look at the league table, and name me a team he doesn’t start for on that left-hand side. Name one,” talkSPORT host Abonglahor said.

“He’s better than [Man City’s Jérémy] Doku. He starts for Arsenal if [Eberechi] Eze plays in that number 10 position.

“[He’s] Better than [Gabriel] Martinelli and [Leandro] Trossard. Better than [Cody] Gakpo [at Liverpool]. Starts for Spurs.”

Spurs will have to fend off stiff competition to sign Semenyo

Are Spurs big enough for Semenyo?

Abonglahor’s Breakfast co-host, Jamie O’Hara, agreed and called for his old team to ‘go all out’ to reunite Semenyo with Ghanaian compatriot, Mohammed Kudus, in north London.

Earlier this month, Tottenham’s majority shareholders, ENIC, announced a new £100m cash injection into the club.

He said: “I’d love him at Spurs. I think they should go all out for him.

“When they come out and talk about an injection of £100m into Spurs. I think Spurs is an amazing club for him, a massive football club, a brilliant stadium and amazing facilities.”

Yet Abonglahor questioned: “Are Spurs big enough for him, though? Because he wants to play Champions League, and next season you won’t [be in the competition],” the ex-Aston Villa striker predicted.

“He can do better than Spurs.”

Ethan Mbappe emerging from brother Kylian’s shadow – ‘He didn’t need any favours’

Joe Brophy — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 07:24:57 +0000

Paris Saint-Germain may have guessed wrong when picking the Mbappe brother who would be the first to return and haunt them.

PSG’s first meeting with Kylian since his exit was a 4-0 demolition in the Club World Cup – but Ethan served up a timely reminder that there has always been two stars in the family.

Ethan Mbappe’s goal was only the second of his senior career

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He is forging his own path at Lille – according to Andy Brassell

The latter spent a lot of the time that his older brother was playing in Ligue 1 supporting from the stands.

However, before the international break, it was a case of role reversals as Kylian watched Ethan Mbappe score for Lille against PSG.

The 18-year-old only furthered the inevitable comparisons between the pair by emulating his brother’s folded-arms celebration in tribute.

It was the most significant moment in the midfielder’s young story, as he continues to emerge from the shadow of his famous sibling.

Following in Kylian Mbappe’s footsteps

The Mbappe brothers — eight years apart — have had their stories intertwined since their days playing for local club, Bondy.

They both joined PSG in 2017, with Ethan making his senior debut in a friendly in December 2022, the same month Kylian reached the World Cup final.

His official senior bow came in PSG’s 3-1 against Metz 12 months later, aged just 16, but it was one of just three league outings he made.

Ethan ultimately followed Kylian out the door at Parc des Princes when their contracts in the French capital expired in June 2024.

European football broadcaster Andy Brassell has since revealed that it was actually not what the Mbappe family had intended.

Mbappe poses with his brother Ethan (c) and father Wilfried (r) upon his PSG arrival

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“Kylian was clear to say, ‘Look, his future is separate from mine. Whatever happens with me shouldn’t affect my brother,’ but it was clear that it did. There’s no doubt about it.

“So I think you can say until you are blue in the face that the two things aren’t connected. We’re separate. We’re going on our different careers, et cetera, et cetera. But when it came to what happened with Kylian Mbappe, it was clear it was going to affect his brother.

“There was no void in that. And I think it was felt towards the end of that because it got so difficult.

“It wasn’t just a case of a star player leaving. It was a case of a star player leaving after an incredibly difficult final season, where he was put in with the players, the undesirables, at the start of the season.

“They wouldn’t even let him train with the first team at the start of his final season. And he had to offer to give back some bonus money to be allowed back into the squad as a sort of peace offering.

“Then you had Luis Enrique sporadically dropping him towards the end of that final season as well. And it left Ethan in a really, really difficult position.”

Kylian Mbappé would have stayed at PSG for his brother

Ethan Mbappe vs Kylian Mbappe

The former had no shortage of admirers when he left PSG, with Borussia Dortmund, Ajax, and even Queen’s Park Rangers interested.

“Now, look, I think when we make the separation between the two, they’re very different sorts of players, of course,” Brassell added.

“Ethan is a more deep-lying midfielder, although clearly he’s got a bit of finishing about him.

“But he’s someone who didn’t really need any favours, I don’t think. He was someone who looked good enough to be part of the PSG squad.

“I’m not saying necessarily a starter, and particularly with the midfield they’ve got now, I think for them to move on from him and him to move on from them, I think was definitely the right thing.

The Mbappe siblings are very different players

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*Ethan Mbappe [LOSC Lille]*	*Kylian Mbappe [Real Madrid]*
Age: 18	Age: 26
Height: 1.80m	Height: 1.78m
Favoured foot: Left	Favoured foot: Right
Position: Central midfield	Position: Centre-forward
Secondary position: Defensive midfield	Secondary position: Left winger
Market value: €5m	Market value: €180m
Career games: 83	Career games: 452

via transfermarkt

“Now, I think when you look at his outlook on football, it’s quite interesting. There was a documentary on French TV about Kylian Mbappe quite recently. And Ethan was saying the difference is, as well as the fact that there’s an eight-year age gap between them, is the fact that Kylian was obsessed with football from when he was a toddler. And from when he was like four, five, he’s focused on being a pro straight away.

“Whereas when you hear Ethan Mbappe talk about it, he’s like, ‘Well, it’s just a bit of fun. I just wanted to play because my dad and my brother were playing, and I just thought it would be fun.’

“He didn’t think until much later that it was a possibility that he would be a pro. So it was a very different attitude and outlook.

“I feel that the whole saga really will have shaken him because he felt that he was making his own way.

“All of a sudden, what was affecting Kylian, because it was so seismic, sort of enveloped him as well.

“Then he gets to Lille, which is a good move to make. He’s only an hour up the road from Paris. It’s a good club, a serious club.”

Overcoming injuries at Lille

Ethan Mbappe got his first taste of Champions League football at his new club, but his first season was hampered by a series of injuries.

A torn thigh muscle, knee injury and Adductor pain were among the seven fitness issues that sidelined him for over 300 days in 2024/25.

Most disappointingly, it denied him the opportunity to face his brother Kylian in a Champions League match last September.

Yet his sophomore campaign has got off to a perfect start – he netted the winner against Toulouse, before that goal against PSG.

Ethan Mbappe endured an injury-plagued first season at Lille

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Brassell continued: “So for him to come in and in his first little go at the first team this season, come on and score a winner in stoppage time, and then come on and score this late goal against PSG.

“Obviously, it’s absolutely replete with meaning, especially as he’s doing his brother’s celebration.

“I don’t think he did it particularly to hate on PSG or to rub it in their faces or annoy them. When he scored his previous goal, the winner against Toulouse, he did exactly the same thing. And he said it was a little tribute to his brother, who’s really supportive of him.

“He said when he scored that winner against Toulouse, he got back to the dressing room and his phone beeped. And the first message he had was from Kylian, which was like a minute after full time to say, yeah, he did it, great goal. So I mean, he’s always really supportive of his little brother.”

Kylian Mbappe celebrated his brother’s late goal against their former club, PSG

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Once upon a time, it was Ethan watching his older sibling from the sidelines

AFP

Getting Kylian’s support

Predictably, the cameras flashed straight towards the elder Mbappe when Ethan scored a late equaliser against his former club.

Brassell argued: “It’s a very modern thing for people to assume that, ‘Oh, well, it’s just the Mbappe brothers rubbing PSG’s noses in it.’

“Well, I tend to think it’s a young man who’s delighted to be playing football again, who is delighted to score a huge goal in a huge game.

“What a finish it was, by the way, for someone who’s not habitually a forward player, the two goals that he scored have been finishes that big brother would have been proud of this season.

“I don’t understand why people find it so hard to understand that, you know, they’d be happy, and Kylian would be happy for him.

“I don’t see why he should have to hide that. It’s his brother scoring a big goal in a big game, of course, he’s pleased for him.”

View Tweet: https://t.co/iDuXpfMbMs

“There was something that was shown on a Spanish TV show last week of Kylian Mbappe getting into a lift with a couple of other Real Madrid players, then he sees the camera, and you can see his face harden.

“A bit like that meme of Kanye West when he’s courtside at a Golden State Warriors game, and his face changes when he sees the camera on him.

“But that’s fine, it’s just part of the modern world, isn’t it? Especially when you see the fluctuating popularity and unpopularity of Kylian Mbappe in France over the last couple of years, and public perception of him and how that really bottomed out over the last couple of years.

“I think that he would be a little bit aware of where he is; it’s not even slightly surprising.”

Ethan Mbappe pointed to Kylian and the rest of his family after copying his brother’s celebration

AFP

Ethan Mbappe transfer

Lille’s involvement in the Europa League this season means a reunion with Kylian’s Real Madrid is out of the question.

But that could be just what Ethan needs as he continues to carve out his own story free from injury and the pitfalls of the Mbappe name.

“I don’t think he’s ever had a grand plan, the way he tells it at least,” Brassell concluded. “He’s never had a grand plan to be this absolute football giant.

“Kylian Mbappe definitely imagined himself winning the World Cup and the Champions League and the Ballon d’Or and all that other sort of stuff. Whereas with Ethan, I think making shorter steps makes a lot more sense. And I think it’s really worked out.

“When you consider if he had taken a move abroad, and he’s still young, of course, still a teenager, you think it would have been really tough for him, his first time outside France, injured all the time.

“It would have been really difficult. Whereas having his family still around him, I’m sure has been really helpful and helped him get back to this point where he’s competitive and he’s part of a squad, a really good club that could do things this season.”

Elliot Anderson was ‘Lionel Messi of League Two’ – Geordie Maradona will be ‘one of the greats’

Joe Brophy — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 17:00:00 +0000

England fans won’t fail to see the irony in that a player nicknamed after Diego Maradona will be key to winning the World Cup.

But League Two Bristol Rovers knew after just one training session that a teenage Elliot Anderson would become one of the greats.

Anderson was named Player of the Match in his first two England appearances, against Andorra and Serbia

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“Always good to talk about the Geordie Maradona,” was how Rovers president Wael Al-Qadi began an exclusive interview with talkSPORT.com. “Joe Barton labelled him with that, and it stuck with the Gas Heads that he’s our Geordie Maradona.”

Anderson is only 339 minutes into his senior England career, and yet he’s already been guaranteed a seat on the plane by talkSPORT’s Adrian Durham.

No player under Thomas Tuchel has made more forward passes than Anderson’s 98 since his senior international debut against Andorra.

A mark of his instant influence on the Three Lions came on Tuesday, when Anderson completed 115 passes in the opposition half; for context, the entire Latvia team managed just 66 in England’s half.

Al-Qadi added: “We’re not only proud, we’re just amazed. But we kind of knew it because we knew we had something special there.

“Although he was only 19 when he came. I remember speaking to Joe and Eddie Jennings, who was the Director of Football and the CEO.

“We always knew that he would reach such heights. We believed that he would because when you work with him day to day, you could tell basically.”

Anderson had only made two senior appearances for his boyhood club, Newcastle, when he was sent out on loan to Bristol Rovers.

Three years later, after his England debut, Tuchel’s instant reaction to his performance was to say, “I think he passed the test.”

Fittingly, the start of his meteoric rise involved a similar type of audition when the midfielder was initially unfancied by a team languishing in mid-table in League Two.

Bristol Rovers still hold former loan star Anderson in extremely high regard

He is now one of the Premier League’s best midfielders

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Elliot Anderson transfer

Bristol Rovers were 12th in the League Two table when they completed a deadline day move for Anderson in January 2022.

Despite his inexperience at senior level, the then-teen had scored seven goals in nine outings in all competitions for Newcastle’s U23s.

However, then-Pirates boss Barton – a former Magpies player – had to be convinced by an ex-teammate to take the chance on Anderson.

A move to Luton Town had broken down, while rumoured interest from Fleetwood Town and Northampton had failed to materialise.

Al-Qadi said: “It was a very funny story there because we were looking for an attacking midfielder, and we had our targets.

Anderson’s transition to the EFL was as seamless as it was to international football

“And because of Joe and Eddie’s strong footballing network and connections, you always get names thrown around from their colleagues in different clubs.

“So, Shola Ameobi, [then-loan manager at Newcastle], he called Joe up and said, ‘Listen to me, just take this kid.’ Joe, being Joe, was like, ‘No, I’m not going to take him.

“’How come nobody else has taken him? Now he must be crap then if you’re trying to push him onto us and nobody has taken him.’

“Shola was like, ‘No, trust me, trust me, and just take him.’”

A conversation with Newcastle loan manager Ameobi was instrumental in the deal

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Elliot Anderson £250 wages

Having missed out on other targets, Barton eventually sanctioned the move on deadline day.

Rovers ultimately agreed a deal to pay just £250 a week on Anderson’s wages – half of what Newcastle had originally proposed.

“First training session, our lads were just blown away,” the club’s president said to talkSPORT. “All of them were talking about him.

“Usually, a kid coming in on loan that’s so late in the window it takes time for him to get some minutes.

“But I remember he immediately made the first of the playing starting 11. And he’s just never looked back.”

Anderson drew comparisons to a teenage Maradona after scoring against Colchester

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Anderson was ‘Messi of League Two’

The Nottingham Forest star made his debut for Rovers two days after signing, in a 1-1 draw with promotion-chasing Sutton United.

His first start came in the following match – a 2-1 defeat to Oldham Athletic – but what happened next has gone down in club folklore.

Rovers only lost two more matches for the rest of the season, with Anderson scoring eight goals and registering five assists.

He won the Goal of the Month in March and claimed both the EFL Young Player and EFL League Two Player of the Month awards that April.

Anderson joined Newcastle at the age of eight but announced himself in League Two

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Elliot Anderson stats at Bristol Rovers

Appearances

21 (Starts 20)

Goals

8 (0 penalties)

Assists

League Two position upon arrival

12th

Final position

3rd (Automatic promotion to League One)

Individual awards

Sky Bet League Two Goal of the Month winner, March 2022
EFL Young Player of the Month, April 2022
The League Two Player of the Month, April 2022

After a 1-0 win over Colchester United, in which he scored the winner, Anderson was compared to iconic Argentine Maradona by Barton.

“It was just incredible. He was a huge factor in our surge upwards towards the promotion places; every goal was breathtaking.”

The highlight of his stint came on the final day of the League Two season, as Rovers sealed automatic promotion on goal difference.

Anderson scored the seventh decisive strike in the historic 7-0 win over Scunthorpe to ensure the Gas bettered Northampton Town‘s 3-1 victory at Barrow by five goals, sparking a pitch invasion that suspended the match for almost 20 minutes.

“I think it might have been his first header and his only header during his loan,” Al-Qadi continued. “It was so fitting because it was like icing on the cake. We needed seven goals, and he scored the seventh goal.”

Anderson’s final action in a Bristol Rovers shirt sealed their promotion to League One

Elliot Anderson will be a World Cup winner

The 22-year-old departed St James’ Park for Premier League rivals Forest in July 2024 and has gone from strength to strength.

His continued success remains a point of joy for his former loan side, but those at Rovers are in no doubt he’s nowhere near his ceiling yet.

Al-Qadi told talkSPORT: “The feeling is the feeling of being proud and happy to be associated with such a player, who we believe is going to be one of the greats, honestly.

Anderson’s dramatic rise has been incredible

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“You could just see it like when we got promoted afterwards, the celebration, how much it meant to him and how much more he wanted of this success.

“Some people, you get promoted, you have to win by seven, and you score seven and get promoted. You would say, ‘OK, I can die now.’

“He wants more. He wants the next level. He wants to win it all, and he’s going to be hungry for that. Those are the ingredients you need for success.

“Hopefully, we’ll see Elliot as a World Cup winner one day….It’s going to happen. Trust me!”

Tottenham loanee will be future captain – he’s already matched Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane test said it all

Joe Brophy — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:24:31 +0000

Tottenham Hotspur fans have been told they can be really excited about Luka Vuskovic. There’s no doubt that he’s going to be captain.

The 18-year-old joined Spurs a month after Harry Kane left, and yet they’ve played the same number of games for the Lilywhites since.

Vuskovic has already tested himself against Harry Kane on loan

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Tottenham swooped to sign Croatian starlet Vuskovic from Hajduk Split in September 2023 on a deal until 2030.

However, he didn’t arrive in north London for two years due to FIFA rules on overseas players under 18 following the UK’s EU exit.

During that period, Vuskovic was shipped out on loan to Polish outfit Radomiak Radom and Belgian side Westerlo, respectively.

The £12million star announced himself to Spurs fans by scoring and assisting on his debut in a 2-0 pre-season win against Reading in July.

Vuskovic was offloaded to Bundesliga giants Hamburg to further his development, with Martin Jol making the bold prediction that he will be better than Cristian Romero.

Two months into the new campaign, the defender is well on his way to be the Argentine’s long-term successor as Spurs captain.

European football broadcaster Andy Brassell told talkSPORT.com: “I think Spurs fans can be really excited about Luka Vuskovic.

“I think he’s made the totally right move as well. So not only is he getting to play in the Bundesliga every week, but as well, there was also already a connection with the club.

“Even though he’s 18, he feels like he’s at home because his older brother, Mario, was at the club and he’s still sort of with the club.

“Of course, he’s been serving a drugs ban for quite a while now. But Luka said right at the beginning, because of my brother, I know everyone at the club anyway. So it’s just like arriving home, really.”

He was given his brother (left) Mario’s shirt number — 44

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Mario Vuskovic – pictured alongside England star Eberechi Eze in 2021 – is serving a four-year suspension for a doping violation

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Vuskovic vs Kane

The centre-back endured a baptism of fire in his debut for HSV against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena.

Merlin Polzin’s side conceded four times in the first 29 minutes against Kane, Michael Olise, and Luis Diaz and eventually lost 5-0.

“For someone like him to be given that responsibility, he’s got such enormously high standards of himself,” Brassell added.

“He spoke after the game where they went to Bayern early on and they lost 5-0, which, if you look at Hamburg’s results in Munich down the years, 5-0 is not actually that bad. It’s below their average beating. So they must’ve been doing something right.

“But Vuskovic was asked about it afterwards. He’d been expressed into the XI. As an 18-year-old in an away game at Bayern, I mean, it doesn’t get any more difficult than that, facing someone else with a Tottenham connection in Harry Kane, of course.

“He stood there in front of the journalists and said, ‘Yeah, I didn’t think I played him that well. I was a bit disappointed in myself, to be honest.’

“The journalists there, and certainly I, looking at the interview, thought, ‘What are you expecting of yourself?’ But he’s expecting a lot of himself. And you see it in every little move he makes.”

Vuskovic broke a finger punching a post

In just his second appearance on loan, the teenager scored his first goal in the 2-1 win over Heidenheim, with his opener being Hamburg’s first Bundesliga goal since their relegation in 2018.

Yet he celebrated with a broken finger he’d received for punching the post in frustration after missing a sitter before that.

He made contact with the woodwork, but was fit enough to score the opener

@Mastrigtcomp X

Vuskovic’s goal guided Hamburg to their first win of the season

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Before the international break, Vuskovic was an instrumental part of a Hamburg defence that kept successive Bundesliga clean sheets.

The first of which, a goalless draw with Union Berlin, saw him break a five-year record across Europe’s top five leagues by winning 18 aerial duals in a single match.

That feat saw German media nickname him ‘Air Vuskovic’, while he has quickly become a fan favourite among fans as well.

According to Hamburg, 1,000 of his replica shirts have already been sold, and he is seen as a key factor in their Bundesliga survival.

He was crowned ‘Air Vuskovic’ for his dominant headed performance in Berlin

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Vuskovic a future Tottenham captain

Vuskovic emulated Jude Bellingham by being voted September‘s Bundesliga rookie of the month on his first time of asking.

Brassell continued: “He’s just such an engaging watch.

“He’s someone, even at this early age, I suppose, a little bit in a different way, like Lucas Bergvall, who I think from the moment he came into the Tottenham team, you’re like, ‘Yeah, this bloke’s gonna be the captain at some point.

“’There’s no doubt that he’s gonna be the captain at some point.’ And you can definitely see that for Vuskovic as well.

“Someone who’s confident but not arrogant. Someone who knows he’s got ability, but expects an enormous lot from himself and doesn’t make excuses and is aware that he’s fallible and he’s gonna make mistakes.

Vuskovic starred on his Spurs debut in pre-season against Reading alongside Bergvall

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Vuskovic has the potential to become one of Tottenham’s greatest defenders

Shutterstock Editorial

“What’s gonna happen over the next little while is really important because, of course, results have improved for them.

“They’re in the top 10, which is amazing. They’re ninth. When you look at them coming up and you think, right, if there’s a team that’s going straight back down, it’s probably them.

“Of course, they’ve been out of the Bundesliga for seven years, having never been relegated before that.

“But a 4-0 win against Mainz at the weekend. Mainz are decent as well. They were really, really good last season and weren’t that far off getting into the Champions League. They’re in the Conference League this season. And Vuskovic looked great again.

“For them to finally beat a side with comfort that are a really good side, especially after the week they’ve had where they’ve lost [Arsenal loanee Fabio] Vieira for quite a few weeks through injury.

“Wamed Omari, who is, I would say, the best defender, who’s on loan from Rennes, he’s injured and gonna be out till Christmas, which is pretty disappointing for them.

“For them to respond with a performance like that and for Vuskovic to be able to step up after Omari’s injury and say, ‘Okay, right, I don’t care how old I am. I’m the leader of this defence now.’

“And to keep a clean sheet against a decent Mainz attack, I think, is super impressive.”

He beat out Johan Bakayoko and Ilyas Ansah to win Bundesliga Rookie of the Month

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Hamburg chief makes Vuskovic transfer claim

His eye-catching performances led HSV Hamburg sporting director Claus Costa to reject claims Spurs could recall him in January.

In fact, the Bundesliga outfit told Transfermarkt.de they already want to extend Vuskovic’s loan deal from Tottenham.

Costa said: “The Luka Vuskovic issue has been on our minds throughout the summer. We always had the clear intention of signing him – and he committed to us relatively early on.

“We didn’t want to take Luka away from Tottenham, but instead wanted to create a win-win-win situation. We’re helping Tottenham, Luka is helping us, and we’re all helping him.

“He’s playing very convincingly, has a great charisma, and gives us a lot. We’re happy he’s here. It’s only October, so much can happen between now and May; there are many variables.

Vuskovic has quickly become a leader in the Hamburg defence

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“As of now, there’s no contractual option. Based on what we’ve seen so far, we’d like to keep him longer – absolutely. We certainly wouldn’t mind.

“The question is how we get there, what Tottenham’s plan is, and how Luka’s season is going. But that’s absolute crystal ball gazing, and as of today, there’s absolutely no way to assess it.

“We had very constructive discussions with Tottenham; they’re a top-professional club, judging by the communication with loan manager Andy Scoulding.

“They’re closely monitoring the player, which shows how they assess Luka. Tottenham isn’t interested in weakening us or ruining the loan.

“It’s understandable that they’re trying to protect themselves against possible worst-case scenarios. Otherwise, I don’t want to comment further.

“I believe Tottenham also knows how good the situation here is for Luka. That’s why I hope we never get into a situation where we have to think about anything else.”

Jurgen Klopp leaps to Florian Wirtz’s defence amid Liverpool struggles

Joe Brophy — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 15:36:06 +0000

Jürgen Klopp has described Florian Wirtz as a once-in-a-century talent amid continued scrutiny over his slow start to life at Liverpool.

The former Reds boss admits his old club are in an unusual run of poor form but insists he has no doubts over their £116.5million star.

Wirtz is yet to register a goal contribution in the Premier League or Champions League

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Wirtz has found himself under the microscope since he arrived at Anfield in June for what was then a British record transfer fee.

Prior to Liverpool’s £125m capture of Alexander Isak on deadline day, Wirtz was the face of the club’s eventual £446m summer splurge.

Two months into the season, the ex-Bayer Leverkusen star has endured criticism that he’s been shoehorned into the Liverpool team.

The German hasn’t scored or assisted in any of his Premier League or Champions League appearances in what has been a dull run of form.

The 22-year-old was harshly dubbed by fans as ‘the worst ever Premier League signing’, while facing widespread mockery online.

Bayern Munich chief Karl-Heinz Rummenigge even claimed that Wirtz would have been ‘better off’ joining the club than Liverpool.

Jürgen Klopp defends Florian Wirtz

Klopp has dismissed concerns over Wirtz’s form and insisted that criticism of his compatriot are being blown out of proportion.

“I don’t have to worry about Florian Wirtz because his quality is so outstanding,” Klopp told RTL and n-tv.

“Of course, everything’s fine, and everyone knows that. The discussion [around him] is certainly being blown out of proportion.

Wirtz is a once-in-a-century talent

Klopp added: “Liverpool have just lost three games in a row – it’s unusual for something like that to happen after such a long time. But it’s also normal in life.

“That’s why these things are being discussed. I’ve been in the middle of such discussions long enough now, and I can tell you: Nothing could interest people less than the public discussions that are taking place there. So it doesn’t matter, and everything will be fine.”

Klopp went on to tell fans not to worry about ‘a once-in-a-century talent’ who will ‘show that in every game again, as he did at Leverkusen’.

Wirtz has ‘a stable environment in Liverpool and the club is great in moments like these,’ he added.

Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer said: “If anyone is worried – you don’t have to! You can stop doing that.”

Wirtz will hope to regain his confidence on international duty

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Klopp opted to join Red Bull last year despite his past criticism

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Wirtz’s struggles didn’t prevent the playmaker from playing the full 90 minutes for his country in Germany’s 4-0 win over Luxembourg.

He hit the post from a free-kick but failed to end his wait for a goal contribution, and Julian Nagelsmann launched a firm defence over his star man’s performances afterwards.

“Even if he hasn’t scored a goal, he’s the player who creates the most chances in the Premier League,” the German told Sport 1.

“It’s not his fault if his team-mate doesn’t create them, and the statistic isn’t even a third of the truth. He simply has to get used to the league.

“I’ve seen him feel completely liberated. He knows what he’s capable of and how things work. Not everything has always been handed to him – he’ll work hard now, too.”

Crystal Palace chief reveals ultimate decision why Marc Guehi to Liverpool transfer collapsed on deadline day

Joe Brophy — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 11:40:09 +0000

Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has opened up on the ‘unusual set of circumstances’ behind Marc Guehi’s failed move to Liverpool.

Parish agreed a £35million deal with the Reds for his captain late in the transfer window, only to pull the plug on deadline day.

Guehi helped Palace beat Liverpool a month after his move to Anfield broke down

AFP

England international Guehi had completed his medical in London and even filmed an exit video before being told his move was off.

Real reason Guehi’s Liverpool transfer failed

talkSPORT understands Palace boss Oliver Glasner played a direct role in the defender staying at the club.

Glasner threatened to walk away if Guehi was sold, having failed to sign two centre-backs during the summer window.

talkSPORT understands Guehi has no plans to sign a new Palace contract and will thus leave Selhurst Park after the World Cup.

The club’s co-owner and chairman, Parish, has now opened up on why he ultimately turned down Liverpool’s £35m offer – even with his talisman set to depart for nothing within a year.

“It’s a difficult decision,” he explained live in the talkSPORT studio, “It’s as simple as that these things are never black and white.

“I decided in the end that, based on the advice that I got and with what I think, that we would have a better season if we kept Marc.

“We don’t guess about these things. If you look at it rationally, if you look at what is worth the place in the Premier League, the fact that we’re in the Conference League for the first time in our history, this is a fairly unusual set of circumstances in which to keep a player.

“If we were fighting between the difference of 10th and 14th, if that was going to be the difference between keeping Marc and letting Marc go, then probably we would have said right, ‘We should take the money.’”

Who will be Guehi’s replacement at Crystal Palace?

Parish also opened up on talkSPORT’s Sunday Session about the Eagles’ current succession plans for Guehi next summer.

Jaydee Canvot has already arrived from Toulouse, with Palace eagerly anticipating Chadi Riad’s return from injury as well.

“We’ve got Jaydee [Canvot] who’s coming in, who’s going to develop as a player we hope,” Parish added.

“We’ve got Chadi [Riad] coming back from injury. Hopefully, we’ll be okay. We should be okay, and that there’s no big loss.

“But with the Conference League, with the way that we want to fight this season, maybe finishing the top half of the league for the first time, we felt it was a good decision to keep Marc.

Parish joined talkSPORT on Sunday

Steve Parish

“We’ve got Chadi coming back, hopefully in October. So in theory, we could get to a place where we don’t need to buy one.

“We could get to a place where we don’t need to replace Marc if we keep him all season.”

Will Guehi still join Liverpool?

Liverpool have no plans to bid for Guehi in January, talkSPORT understands; however, that was prior to Giovanni Leoni’s injury.

With Leoni set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines, Arne Slot only has captain Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez at his disposal.

As it stands, Liverpool are not inclined to bid for Guehi in January, knowing the Palace captain is a free transfer next summer.

Teenage talent Leoni suffered an ACL injury on his Liverpool debut

AFP

Guehi is understood to be content to see out the season and pick his next club after the 2026 World Cup.

The 25-year-old will be able to pick from a series of clubs next summer with not just Liverpool still keen on adding him on a free transfer, but Real Madrid are said to be among his suitors as well.

Borussia Dortmund ‘under pressure’ to fix Jobe Bellingham’s slow start to protect £900m asset

Joe Brophy — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 11:40:52 +0000

Borussia Dortmund should be feeling the pressure of Jobe Bellingham’s slow start to life in Germany more than he should.

That is the belief of European football journalist Andy Brassell, who revealed the club’s status as the place for elite starlets is at risk.

The Bundesliga giants are renowned across the continent for their role in the development of some of the world’s best young talents.

Dortmund’s iron-clad status for nurturing has seen them rake in over €1 billion (£872m) in outgoing transfers across the past decade.

Robert Lewandowski, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Ilkay Gundogan, Ousmane Dembele, and Jadon Sancho all arrived at the club as relative unknowns but were eventually sold for massive profit.

However, their transfer strategy has evolved in recent times to invest in established youth such as Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham.

The latter’s younger brother, Jobe, looked seemingly destined to be the next player on the conveyor belt after joining this summer.

The 20-year-old held talks with Eintracht Frankfurt before completing a £31m switch to BVB from Sunderland in June.

He started Dortmund’s first two fixtures in the Bundesliga, but has since been relegated to late cameos as a substitute.

Jobe is yet to complete a full 90 minutes for Dortmund, clocking up a total of just 167 minutes in the German top-flight.

“I do think there is a lot of pressure on Dortmund to get this right, because he took a bit of a leap of faith going there,” Brassell exclusively told talkSPORT.com.

“I think it would have been easy to avoid those comparisons and go to another club.

The younger Bellingham could have chosen a different club in the Bundesliga

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“We know, for example, Eintracht Frankfurt were really interested in him, just like James McAtee went and had a look around there, really impressed. Eintracht Frankfurt are really good developers of players.

“You could argue, in fact, that Frankfurt are better developers of players than Dortmund now, because we wind back to Jurgen Klopp, and you think of all the players that developed and became stars there.

“Whether it was Mats Hummels, Lewandowski, or Nuri Sahin, it doesn’t necessarily need to be academy products, but young players who sort of got the head and got given a go there.

“Then, if you look more recently, they start going for older, more experienced, more expensive players, signings like [Marcel] Sabitzer, obviously, Pascal Gross is one. The ones that they wouldn’t have made back in the day are pretty clear.

“So there’s a different profile of player they’re going for. Of course, there’ll be people reading this saying, ‘Oh, well, you know, they did develop Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham.’

“I’m sorry, I’m not giving them those, because you’re talking about generational talents.

Jobe’s brother Jude and Haaland both furthered their careers at Dortmund

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Ballon d’Or winner Dembele had a good partnership with Aubameyang at BVB

Getty Images - Getty

“Of course, Dortmund do have a part to play in their story,” European football expert Brassell continued to talkSPORT.

“There’s no doubt about that, because they became more complete players there. And that’s something that speaks for Dortmund and will continue to speak for Dortmund.

“But if we’re talking about them as prolific developers of young players, using players who are generational talents to be indicative of what the club does, I don’t think it’s a fair comparison.

“So what they do with Jobe, and if they get it right, and if he becomes the player that he wants to become and they want him to become, that is something that’s really important for the next lot of players that they try and sign.

“Jude Bellingham is a player with a huge future, who had a choice.

“Maybe if this doesn’t go right, the next one goes, ‘Well, all right, maybe I’ll go to Eintracht Frankfurt. Maybe that’s the place for me to develop.’

“In terms of Dortmund still making itself a finishing school for elite young talent, that this works is really, really important for them.”

Dortmund biggest sales by season

Season	Biggest sale	Fee	Total sales
2025/26	Jamie Gittens	€56m	€72.75m
2024/25	Niclas Fullkrug	€27m	€58.6m
2023/24	Jude Bellingham	€103m	€103m
2022/23	Erling Haaland	€60M	€78.7M
2021/22	Jadon Sancho	€85M	€108.25M
2020/21	Omer Toprak	€4M	€5.5M
2019/20	Abdou Diallo	€32M	€132.25M
2018/19	Christian Pulisic	€64M	€114.2M
2017/18	Ousmane Dembele	€140M	€275.95M
2016/17	Henrikh Mkhitaryan	€42M	€111M

Jobe’s slow start to life at Dortmund

Despite an encouraging start in the Club World Cup, the England U21 star’s gametime in each Bundesliga game has gradually reduced.

Niko Kovac revealed that high competition within his squad is why Jobe has struggled to force his way into the starting line-up.

The Dortmund boss claims that while the younger Bellingham is a ‘very talented player’, he ‘obviously comes from the English second division’.

“You can’t make the mistake of applying too much pressure, despite the name,” Kovac said.

“I think that’s not doing the boy any favours, and the boy isn’t doing himself any favours.”

‘Needs space’ – Borussia Dortmund rule change has put so much pressure on Jobe Bellingham

Joe Brophy — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 13:49:54 +0000

Jobe Bellingham has been reassured that his slow start at Borussia Dortmund is normal amid pressure from off-field headlines.

The 20-year-old followed brother Jude in moving to the Bundesliga giants this summer, but hasn’t enjoyed the same instant impact.

Jobe has only been used sparingly by Dortmund since joining from Sunderland

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Jobe has featured in all six of Dortmund’s matches this season but has so far struggled to cement himself as a regular in the starting XI.

The ex-Birmingham City academy graduate has started just twice under Niko Kovac, with his minutes reduced with each appearance.

He is yet to complete a full 90 minutes for Dortmund while clocking up a total of just 167 minutes in the German top-flight.

On Jobe’s increasingly infrequent gametime, Kovac claimed the teen ‘isn’t doing himself any favours’ amid strong competition for places.

However, talkSPORT’s European football journalist, Andy Brassell, has sympathised with the former Sunderland star’s teething problems.

“I think it’s completely normal, to be honest,” he said exclusively to talkSPORT.com while discussing Jobe’s slow start in Germany.

“I think the biggest millstone around his neck, and he signed up for this, is the fact that he’s a Bellingham at Dortmund.

“He can wear what he wants on the back of the shirt, but everyone knows he’s Jude’s younger brother. And you only need to look at him to know that.

“But you’re looking at a player, if we’re being realistic, you’re looking at a player who’s not played in the top division before, let alone for a Champions League club that’s got aspirations of winning some stuff over the next little while. And where there is a huge amount of pressure, by the way.

“You’re looking at a guy, whatever his name is, whatever potential he’s got, turning up and having to compete with really experienced, well-paid players, I think it’s difficult.”

Kovac has reduced Jobe to a substitute role

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Bellingham’s father had ’emotional’ exchange with Dortmund executive

In September 2020, Jude Bellingham marked his Bundesliga debut with an assist en route to winning the league’s Rookie of the Month.

Five years later, Jobe wasn’t afforded the chance to do the same after being hauled off at half-time on the opening day of the season.

Jobe’s father, Mark, even held a heated discussion with Borussia Dortmund’s sporting director, Sebastien Kehl, after the 3-3 draw.

BVB’s CEO for sport, Lars Ricken, later revealed the club will subsequently limit locker room access to avoid similar incidents.

Brassell added: “Clearly, the incident where his mum and dad went down to the dressing room and his dad made plain that he wasn’t that happy, A, about the way Jobe got dragged at half time, and B, the fact that Dortmund hadn’t played that well.

Ricken also insisted, ‘everything has been resolved – no drama’

“I can’t believe he would be blind to the optics of that, to be honest, because it’s just put so much pressure on Jobe, really.

“With Jude, it’s clear he’s his own guy. Obviously, he was someone who had so much ability that whatever else was happening around him, it didn’t really matter because he could sort everything on the pitch.

“When you’re talking about living up to Jude Bellingham’s sort of status that he had at Dortmund, you can’t even look at it that way because it’s impossible.

“Jude Bellingham wasn’t just a great player for Dortmund for three years – He was someone who fulfilled a load of different roles in the team, who was a complete midfield player, who was a generational talent and was a leader.

“You look at the way he conducted the crowd, and he does that at Real Madrid as well, for goodness’ sake. I mean, what player goes to Real Madrid and conducts the crowd? It’s amazing.

“So to go from being a player of promise to that level, it’s a huge leap. And I don’t think it’s reasonable to expect that.

Jobe’s brother Jude and Erling Haaland both furthered their careers during their time at Dortmund

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“Now, of course, what his dad did in intervening after his Bundesliga debut, it’s not just embarrassing a little bit because you best believe the other players would have been ripping it out of him off the back of that. I’m sure they’ll all have been laughing about it.

“It’s just he’s trying to be his own man, as we’ve seen from what he’s got on the back of his shirt.

“All of a sudden, just in case you’re unaware, he’s a Bellingham.

“His dad’s down there in the dressing room, going, ‘OK, what’s going on with my son?'”

Jobe may have come in from some stick for the antics on his Bundesliga debut

AFP

To expect what they got from Jude is ridiculous

Dortmund snapped up the elder Bellingham at 17, and generated a huge profit with his transfer to Real Madrid three years later.

He became the club’s youngest captain aged 19 and was named the Bundesliga’s player of the season in his final campaign in Germany.

His younger sibling played a key role in Sunderland‘s promotion to the Premier League before sealing a £31million move to Dortmund.

Jobe enjoyed an encouraging start in the Club World Cup, scoring in a 4-3 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns.

But the England U21 international is yet to register a goal or assist across any of his seven appearances in all competitions this season.

Jobe has already played across the midfield in the No.10 and in a central partnership

“I do feel that Jobe just needs a little bit of space,” Brassell continued on talkSPORT.

“In terms of what he’ll be getting, at the moment, from Niko Kovac, he’s very demanding on his players, very demanding in terms of how physical they need to be as well.

“There’s a little step up that he needs to take, and it will take a while. And like I said, he is competing with some storied players.

“Marcel Sabitzer and Felix Nmecha, who couldn’t get in the team at the start of the season, despite costing 30 million euros, by the way, and was already a proven Bundesliga player, Nmecha.

“So they start the game, and it’s not obvious at the moment where he starts. Look, he will start games. They’ve got tonnes more games.

“They’ll get injuries. He’ll play plenty. But to expect from him what they got from Jude, it’s ridiculous.”

Florian Wirtz warned over massive Karim Benzema risk amid Liverpool transfer mistake claims

Joe Brophy — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 15:00:00 +0000

Florian Wirtz knew his Liverpool struggles were a possibility when he joined – it’s not acknowledged in England what a risk he has taken.

That is the verdict of European football expert Andy Brassell, who believes Wirtz will be unfazed by the intense scrutiny around him.

Wirtz is the second most expensive signing in Premier League history

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The German arrived at Anfield in June for what was then a British record transfer fee when he completed a deal worth £116.5million.

Prior to Liverpool’s £125m capture of Alexander Isak on deadline day, Wirtz was the face of the club’s eventual £446m summer splurge.

The Reds secured a huge coup by fending off interest from Bayern and Manchester City, with the latter later pulling out of the race.

Wirtz’s father has since revealed that it was Arne Slot’s ideas of how his son would fit in that helped to convince him to choose Anfield.

However, the ex-Bayer Leverkusen star has already faced criticism that he’s been shoehorned into the team by Tony Cascarino.

Wirtz enjoyed an impressive debut for Liverpool as he assisted Hugo Ekitike’s goal against Crystal Palace in the Community Shield.

However, his struggles during his Eagles reunion over a month later underlined his issues, having yet to complete a full 90 minutes.

Saturday’s 2-1 loss to Palace was the earliest Wirtz has been hooked, with Liverpool a goal down and chasing an equaliser at the time.

Wirtz, who was benched for the Merseyside derby, is yet to score or assist in either the Premier League or Champions League.

Wirtz is still awaiting his first Premier League goal contribution

That is a far cry from the output he was registering in Germany

Wirtz won’t be fazed by stats at Liverpool

The 22-year-old surprised many in his homeland by moving to England over remaining in the Bundesliga.

To the point that Bayern chief Karl-Heinz Rummenigge even claimed he’d have been ‘better off’ joining the club than Liverpool.

However, during an exclusive interview with talkSPORT.com, Brassell revealed Wirtz is no stranger to critics of his transfer decisions.

“He knew when he came to the Premier League that what’s happening now was a risk,” Brassell said. “He knew it was a possibility.

“I don’t think it will faze him because Wirtz has been through some really difficult stuff in his career so far.

Wirtz is in unfamiliar territory after struggling to impact games

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“You go back to when he was a teenager, and he was in the youth system at FC Köln, and it became clear that he was going to go to Leverkusen.

“There was a lot of blowback, and he’s 16 going on 17 at the time.

“There’s an agreement that at least Köln thinks exists that they’ve got with Leverkusen because they’re 20 minutes down the road from each other, to not pinch star players from each other or not pinch young players from each other. And Leverkusen are flouting this, they think.

“Obviously, Wirtz is a kid and getting it from all angles; he’s getting stick from everywhere. And yet he still goes, you know what, I’m going to go through with this because Leverkusen is my ramp and this is my career path.”

Wirtz flourished with the freedom Xhaka and co. provided at Leverkusen

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Wirtz shares Haaland/Mbappe mentality – ‘Going to Bayern was not enough of a step’

Wirtz’s commitment to choosing the sporting challenge on offer at Leverkusen, and now Liverpool, falls in line with other young stars.

Similarly, Erling Haaland engineered a progression from Molde to Salzburg, Borussia Dortmund, and now City.

“If you look at someone like Haaland and how carefully curated his career is, I think Wirtz is in a similar vein,” Brassell added.

“He’s one of a generation of young players, like Kylian Mbappe, who know what his stages are.

“I think it was planned out to a certain extent. He made the move to Leverkusen at the right time.

“He decided, because of the way it went at Leverkusen, because I think he reacted to the situation and how well it went there, particularly in the last couple of years, that going to Bayern was not enough of a step. And I think it would have been easier for him in a way.

Woltemade and Wirtz both favoured moves to England over staying in the Bundesliga

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“Obviously, he’s injured at the moment, but the fact that he and Jamal Musiala get on very well, they worked very well as dual tens in Euro 2024 for the German national team, I think there was a pathway to it being smoother if he were to go to Bayern.

“There’s no doubt he’s taken a massive risk because it’s a World Cup year. He wants to be a starter for Germany.

“If you compare it to, say, look at Karim Benzema leaving Lyon in 2009 and going to Real Madrid.

“If he stayed at Lyon the extra year and he’s 20 at the time, not a completely different age profile and quite similar ones to Florian Wirtz, he’s in the 2010 World Cup squad. There’s absolutely no doubt about that. He cruises into it. But he goes to Real Madrid.

Benzema scored 17 goals with Lyon in his final year in Ligue 1

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He started just 18 games and scored nine goals in his first season at Madrid

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“He struggles to adapt. He’s not that worldly either. So it’s the off-the-pitch stuff as well.

“Then he doesn’t go to the World Cup after that really ordinary first year at Madrid.

“Now, obviously, it works out for Benzema down the line. He goes on to have a great career.

“But I think you look at that and it’s sometimes not acknowledged, maybe within England at least, what a risk Florian Wirtz has taken. But he’s taken that risk because he believes in himself.”

Why has Wirtz struggled, and when will he come good at Liverpool?

Wirtz, by his own admission, has struggled to get to grips with the Premier League pace and intensity.

The German international is also required to do considerably more work off the ball at Liverpool than he was required at Leverkusen.

As a result. Wirtz has lacked his usual explosiveness on the ball, having used up a lot of strength and energy elsewhere.

Brassell explained: “Now, look, I think there’s a load of different reasons why he’s not absolutely smashed it for Liverpool so far.

“I think a huge part of it is getting up to the physical level, because I remember Xabi Alonso saying to me when I spoke to him in the season that Leverkusen won the double.

He played left wing at Palace after starting the season as Liverpool’s No.10

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“He said, basically, everyone’s got a role in the team. Everyone has duties that they have to fulfil, but Flo gets a little bit of a pass.

“So I [Alonso] trust him to interpret the role as best he wants, really. I trust his judgement on the pitch.

“He had Granit Xhaka at the time, Robert Andrich, and Exequiel Palacios to do the running for him and cover that.

“I think it’s unrealistic to expect that to be your role in the Premier League.

Wirtz said his former manager, Alonso, was happy that he joined Liverpool

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“There needs to be a little bit more. He needs to be a bit more athletic. He needs to do more off the ball.

“That is an incredibly steep climb. Now, bear in mind, when he came back from his ACL injury at Leverkusen, it took him a long time to recover.

“It was 10 months between when he got injured and when he played again.

“It took him another couple to actually properly start playing really, really well again.

Wirtz sent an obvious message to critics during the last international break

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“So if you’re looking at a sort of graph of physical improvement, for Wirtz to get from where he was when he arrived to the point that Liverpool needs him to get, it’s going to take a while.

“What he has got on his side is the fact that A, they’ve been winning, and B, they’re in a position where he doesn’t have to play every single game, and they’ve got a great bench, and they can take a bit of the pressure off him.

“But in terms of his talent, in terms of his mentality, I’ve got absolutely no doubt over any of that.

“If Bayern are sort of saying, well, you know, we told you it wouldn’t happen – I don’t think there’s so much of the we told you so about it.

“They’re more, you turned us down? Do you know who we are? I think that’s more what they’re feeling at the moment and what they’ve felt off the back of the Nick Woltemade decision as well.”

Xabi Alonso gushes over ‘complete’ Real Madrid signing who Man United sold for £5m

Joe Brophy — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 16:44:36 +0000

Alvaro Carreras continues to make a mockery of Manchester United’s decision to sell him as he continues to hit the ground running at Real Madrid.

The 22-year-old has started all of Los Blancos’ seven matches in all competitions this season and played almost every minute thus far.

Mbappe and Carreras have been ever-present for Real Madrid under Xabi Alonso

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He is already considered one of three exceptions to Xabi Alonso’s rotation policy, with Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouaméni.

It marks a stunning turnaround from the events which saw Carreras leave the Bernabeu to join Man United in July 2020.

The Red Devils pulled off a major coup to land the left-back, but he did not make a single first-team appearance in four years at the club.

Why did Man United sell Carreras?

The former Spain Under-21 international arrived at Old Trafford as a 17-year-old and quickly became a star in their youth ranks.

Carreras, then known as Alvaro Fernandez, appeared to be on the cusp of a senior breakthrough at the end of the 2021/22 season.

The defender was named in the matchday squad for Man United’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea in April 2022 under interim manager Ralf Rangnick.

A month later, Carreras won the club’s Under-23s Player of the Year award, before thriving on loan at Preston North End in the following season.

However, bizarrely, the Spaniard was never given any opportunity to impress under Erik ten Hag despite a left-back crisis in 2023.

Carreras was sent out on loan to Granada, with Ten Hag signing Sergio Reguilón, with both Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia out injured.

The left-back was part of the same youth side as Alejandro Garnacho

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He trained with Cristiano Ronaldo at Man United, but never played a game

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Carreras: ‘Erik ten Hag didn’t count on me’

Reguilón made 12 appearances in all competitions before United activated a break clause in his deal to send him back to Tottenham.

In the absence of any recognised left-backs, Ten Hag deployed Victor Lindelof and midfielder Sofyan Amrabat as emergency cover.

Carreras stated that the Dutch boss ‘did not count on me’, but claimed that his main objective was to earn a place at United.

He told The Athletic: “What message did United give me? That I should go out on loan, that Ten Hag didn’t count on me, that I should continue to gain experience, rhythm, and we’ll see what happens in the future.

“But it’s clear that football doesn’t end at any club and that you have to keep working. My main objective is to return to United and make a place for myself there.”

Carreras impressed on several loans without getting a chance under Ten Hag

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Man United did indeed terminate Carreras’ loan in January 2024, but only to send him on loan to Benfica for the rest of the season.

The Portuguese side made the move permanent for a reported £5m that May, with Madrid shelling out £43m to re-sign him a year later.

Why Ten Hag didn’t rate Carreras

United netted an additional £8m in the Madrid transfer due to a sell-on clause inserted in their initial agreement with Benfica.

However, such a fee is a drop in the ocean compared to what Carreras is now worth, following his starring role in the Spanish capital.

According to the BBC, former United boss Ten Hag felt Carreras was not quick enough for the Premier League and suited a back-three.

To add insult to injury, that formation is the exact one the 55-year-old’s successor at Old Trafford, Ruben Amorim, now uses at the club.

Real Madrid returned for Carreras after his impressive stint at Benfica

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The defender made 68 appearances for Benfica and scored five goals

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Xabi Alonso hugely impressed by Carreras

Ten Hag’s sentiments are not ones shared by new Real Madrid manager Alonso, who has already become a huge fan of Carreras.

The latter has played the full 90 minutes in each of the six matches in LaLiga and the Champions League, in which he started at left-back in a back-four defensive system.

Carreras showcased his versatility in a 4-1 win over Levante by playing nearly the entire match at centre-back to continue his perfect start.

Alonso heaped praise on him this week, saying: “I was optimistic because I’d been following him for a while, but his personality and competitiveness have pleasantly surprised me.

Carreras has quickly established himself as a key figure in the Alonso era

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“He makes very few mistakes, is very focused, and has great technical and tactical quality. He’s very complete.

“The instant impact he’s had is surprising.

“We also have Fran Garcia, David Alaba and Ferland Mendy who can play in that position, but his performances have been excellent so far.”

‘We felt he owed us’ – Ex-Southampton CEO admits handling of Virgil van Dijk transfer was ’embarrassing’

Joe Brophy — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 13:09:07 +0000

Virgil van Dijk’s then-record-breaking transfer to Liverpool in 2018 has become one of the most transformative in Premier League history.

However, seven years on, an ex-Southampton executive in charge of the deal has admitted he is embarrassed by the saga in hindsight.

Virgil van Dijk has been one of the best defenders in the world for years

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Van Dijk completed a then-world record transfer for a defender when he sealed a £75million move to Liverpool in January 2018.

He instantly endeared himself to the Kop by scoring an 84th-minute winner on his debut against rivals Everton in the FA Cup.

The Dutchman has since become a Champions League winner and a two-time Premier League champion en route to becoming captain.

Van Dijk even won UEFA Men’s Player of the Year in 2019 and finished just seven points behind Lionel Messi in that season’s Ballon d’Or.

As such, it was little surprise that the Reds went to such lengths to sign him as their chief defensive target in the summer of 2017.

Van Dijk was wanted by Chelsea and Manchester City but made it clear he wanted to move to Liverpool, who had reached the Champions League play-offs after a year’s absence from European competition.

The 34-year-old exchanged texts with Jurgen Klopp and even met him in Blackpool, which provoked a furious Southampton response.

The Saints complained to the Premier League of a clandestine approach, leading Liverpool to issue a public apology.

In a statement, the Merseysiders declared they had ‘ended any interest in the player’ to prevent Southampton from filing a report.

Van Dijk ultimately spent several more months on the south coast before he was allowed to join Liverpool in the following January.

Van Dijk’s Southampton exit was a long, drawn-out saga

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The Dutchman was eventually allowed to join Liverpool six months later than planned

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Liverpool's 2017 statement on Virgil van Dijk

In an official statement at the time, the club said:

“Liverpool Football Club would like to put on record our regret over recent media speculation regarding Southampton Football Club and player transfers between the two clubs.

“We apologise to the owner, board of directors and fans of Southampton for any misunderstanding regarding Virgil van Dijk.

“We respect Southampton’s position and can confirm we have ended any interest in the player.”

Southampton felt Van Dijk “owed us”

Former Southampton CEO Martin Semmens reflected on the saga during an appearance live on talkSPORT earlier this month.

The London City Lionesses executive claimed Liverpool’s conduct had angered the Saints, but forcing Van Dijk to stay ultimately backfired.

“Virgil van Dijk was a big one for us,” he recalled on talkSPORT. “We treated him in a different way and said, ‘You can’t go’. It didn’t work well for us.

“We didn’t [get him back on our side]. Virgil was fantastic, in my opinion, he trained at 75 [per cent] and played at 75 [per cent] and was still the best player in the team, if not the league.

“He didn’t cause us any problems. He never said a single bad word to anyone, but he wanted to go, and it wasn’t effective for us to keep the player.

Semmens insisted Van Dijk never said a negative word after the deal was called off

“We kept him until January. It wasn’t good for the squad or the environment, but to be clear, Virgil never said one negative word to anybody.

“We felt, at the time, we could get more if he stayed. He’d had a bad injury, I think he’d been out for six to nine months, and we felt that he owed us, which is embarrassing now, I think back to it.

“There was also some contact from Liverpool we didn’t love. At that time, probably a little more for the morals, he had already met Klopp before he told us.

“But in the end, he did a very good job for us, and we sold him for a good price.”

Van Dijk pictured in Southampton training on December 20, 2017 – A week before his move to Liverpool was agreed

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The defender was arguably the most important signing of Klopp’s tenure

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Giovanni Leoni ‘as good as Van Dijk’

Liverpool fans fittingly got their first look at Leoni during the club’s 2-1 Carabao Cup win over Semmens’ old club, Southampton.

The Italian hugely impressed on his first appearance since his £26m move from Parma before he suffered an injury.

Liverpool will be desperate for Leoni to have avoided any major setback, having already started to deliver on Semmens’ high praise.

Semmens helped bring the 18-year-old to Parma from Sampdoria last year and revealed the centre-back is Van Dijk’s successor in waiting.

“Yeah, absolutely for me [Leoni is the heir to the Van Dijk throne],” Semmens told Matterface, Crook & Deeney on talkSPORT.

Leoni is highly rated across Europe, and Liverpool acted quickly to win the race to sign him

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“We signed him the second year I was there in the summer, and I have a deep love for the likes of [Newcastle defender] Tino Livramento [for Southampton] and signing these young players. Romeo Lavia: This was the same kind of deal.

“I think it was clearly the best young centre back in Italy, if not Europe. And again, we sold him the vision to come to our club to play in Serie A.

“I think it was 17 when he started playing, and then when the right moment comes, you will go.

“Our understanding was the same with the keeper we bought, [Zion] Suzuki the Japanese keeper. Man United tried to buy him. That’s a rumour I can semi-confirm.

Leoni was handed his Liverpool debut in the Carabao Cup

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GettyHis standout showing against Southampton was brought to an early end by injury[/caption]

“The view was that they would probably stay there longer than one year, but Leoni was such a level, and again, I think it highlights Liverpool’s ability that they spotted that.

“There were other clubs in the Premier League that asked me about him – not as an Executive for Parma because I’d left by then, and I told them what I thought, and they didn’t follow through on it. Liverpool never called me.”

“Five or six Premier League teams asked me,” Semmens added. “I told them he’s as good as Virgil.”

“Liverpool never called me, never asked for a reference, because they’ve got such an ability to find those players. Top player!”

Aston Villa sign ex-Unai Emery teammate who revived Alexander Isak and Martin Odegaard’s careers

Joe Brophy — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 12:29:01 +0000

Aston Villa havenamed Roberto Olabe as their new president of football operations

The move has been announced swiftly after the news that Monchi has left the position at the Premier League club.

GettyEmery and Monchi worked together at Sevilla before Villa[/caption]

He will now reunite with his former Sociedad teammate, Olabe

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Sources close to the Spaniard suggest that he felt he took Villa as far as he could due to financial constraints at the club.

Unai Emery’s side are 18th and winless in the Premier League following their 1-1 draw away at ten-man Sunderland on Sunday.

Villa are beginning to feel the effects of a poor summer transfer window, having been ranked 16th on talkSPORT’s list of all 20 teams.

However, the arrival of Olabe represents a huge coup, having been a previous target of both Arsenal and Real Madrid.

The 57-year-old put European clubs on red alert upon announcing his exit from Real Sociedad at the end of last season.

Olabe’s work at La Real since becoming their director of football in March 2018 helped propel the team to a 2020 Copa del Rey win, Champions League qualification, and multiple Europa League appearances, with their players soon sealing big-money transfers.

The retired goalkeeper turned out for Sociedad as a player, famously alongside Emery during the 1995/96 campaign.

During his first stint as the club’s sporting director, Olabe helped assemble the team that finished two points behind Madrid for the 2002/03 LaLiga title, headlined by a teenage Xabi Alonso.

A young Mikel Arteta was then signed from Rangers, laying the groundwork for his focus on buying Sociedad stars at Arsenal.

Gunners captain Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino, and Martin Zubimendi can all credit Olabe for a role in their development.

Olabe brought an emerging Arteta to his hometown club in 2004

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Arsenal have since benefited from the signings of Zubimendi and Merino in successive summers

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Olabe helped revive Odegaard’s career

Sociedad enjoyed their most successful stint in decades following Olabe’s return in 2018 for his third spell as sporting director.

Odegaard was a key part of the squad who enjoyed Copa del Rey glory, having been given the platform to revive his career.

The Norwegian hit the headlines in 2015 when he was snapped up by Madrid at 16, but he still hadn’t established himself four years later.

Olabe had studied Odegaard’s adaptation in Real Madrid Castilla and his loan spells at Heerenveen and Vitesse to convince him to join.

Olabe told the Daily Star in 2023: “Martin perfectly understood the game. That was his most important attribute. It was his interpretation of the game and what was happening around him at every single moment.

Odegaard had loans at three different clubs before joining Arsenal, including Real Sociedad

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Newcastle smashed their transfer record to bring Isak to Tyneside

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“His capacity to interpret the game was and is higher than the individual qualities. Because he thinks quickly, he is able to adapt and get one step ahead of opponents that people think are physically quicker.

“It wasn’t just one specific quality like control, receptions, last pass, shooting or set-pieces. His box of attributes was already full, complete.

“He had extraordinary values in a professional sense. He was serious about hard work, being a team player and he had the right mentality to continually improve.

“He wanted to be more every single day. With youth players, you usually needed to push that, but not with this guy.”

Odegaard was far from the only young star who revived their career at Sociedad, with Olabe also signing Alexander Isak in 2019.

Within three years, Olabe was part of the negotiations that led to a club-record sale of the Swede to Newcastle – who in turn have now sold the striker for a British transfer record £125m to Liverpool.

Caicedo came through the ranks at Independiente del Valle before joining Brighton

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Olabe helped produce Ecuador’s ‘golden generation’

It’s not just at Sociedad that he has left his mark – having also been the head of sporting strategy at Independiente del Valle.

Olabe helped build the youth system at the Ecuadorian side, which has since produced the likes of Moises Caicedo and Piero Hincapie.

At the 2022 World Cup, 12 of Ecuador’s 26-man squad had a link to Independiente del Valle, with the majority being under the age of 22 at the time of the tournament.

Fittingly, Olabe spent a period assisting Qatar in their World Cup preparations, with the two countries facing off in the opening game.

talkSPORT

Jack Grealish was wasted by Pep Guardiola at Man City – he has transformed Everton already

Joe Brophy — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 19:42:00 +0000

Jack Grealish never really got the credit he deserved at Manchester City – it’s great for England that he’s been allowed to fly at Everton.

That is the verdict from talkSPORT’s Troy Deeney, who claimed David Moyes’ approach to managing Grealish is the key behind his form.

The former Aston Villa captain has been a figure reborn during a stunning first month at Everton since joining on loan from Man City.

Grealish currently tops the Premier League assist standings, having set-up four goals in just three top-flight starts for the Toffees.

He has become the first new hero of Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium era, winning the Premier League Player of the Month award.

It represents a remarkable and rapid turnaround in his fortunes, who had fallen out of love with the game by his own admission.

The 30-year-old became the most expensive England transfer ever when he arrived at the Etihad in 2021 for £100 million.

Grealish, who inherited Sergio Aguero’s no.10 shirt, won the Premier League title in his debut season before becoming a vital cog of Pep Guardiola’s treble-winning side in 2022/23.

However, struggles with fitness and form saw his influence wane, and he made just seven top-flight starts last season, claiming one goal and one assist.

On why Grealish has hit the ground running on Merseyside, Deeney exclusively told talkSPORT.com: “Timing, he’s obviously won [trophies] at Man City.

“People are hammering [him], but he never really got the credit he deserved at Man City.

“But you look at where he is now, [he has] a manager that goes, ‘Right, solid framework. We’re going to do what we do, give the ball to Jack.’

Moyes admitted Grealish ‘probably needs a bit of love and attention’ after revitalising his career

The essence of the England international’s game had been reduced at the Etihad

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“And he’s going to Jack, ‘If you lose the ball, who cares? Do it again. Who cares? Do it again.’

“Now look at Pep, and you look at [Phil] Foden, you look at Savinho, you look at [Jeremy] Doku, you can go through it [City’s winger options].

“Anyone who’s on that wing, once you start losing the ball, he just sits you [on the bench], like, ‘Come and sit down, I don’t trust you.’

“And I think for wide players – mavericks and flair players – you have to allow them to make [mistakes].

“If they get the ball ten times and they make eight mistakes, OK, but those two that they get right will be goal-scoring opportunities.

“And I think that’s what David Moyes does really well with both Jack and [Iliman] Ndiaye on either side. [He] just says, ‘Go on then, go do your thing.’”

Grealish has the freedom to dribble past defenders

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Grealish stats under Moyes vs Guardiola

The stats all back up Deeney’s claim that Grealish’s natural flair and dribbling skills were a mismatch with Guardiola’s system.

He and Everton teammate, Ndiaye, sit numbers one and two for the most dispossessed Premier League players so far (10 and eight).

Grealish, meanwhile, was only dispossessed 16 times throughout the entirety of his 715 minutes in the top-flight for City last campaign.

However, his underlying attacking data, in addition to his actual goal contributions, all far exceed his 2024/25 output under Guardiola.

Grealish is up on his expected assists (xA), chances created, cross accuracy, and successful dribbles per 90 compared to last season.

Deeney argued that mavericks and flair players have to be allowed to make mistakes

Grealish is only going to get better at Everton

Deeney revealed Grealish’s current form is even more impressive considering the England international is not yet fully up to speed.

It means Everton fans can relish the first Merseyside derby of the season this Saturday lunchtime, live and exclusive on talkSPORT.

Grealish boasts a fine individual record against Liverpool, having scored three goals and registered four assists in seven Premier League games against them.

“The beauty for me that I see with Jack is, when they give him the ball, the fanbase gets excited – but the players do,” Deeney added.

“You can see the players go, ‘Oh, don’t worry, he’ll sort it out,’ and that’s what he had at Aston Villa, and I think he’s thriving.

Moyes has allowed Grealish to drift into central areas and be a focal point of Everton’s attack

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“Obviously, he won [the Premier League] Player of the Month, it’s his first ever one, which was incredible for me, but I’m happy for him.

“It was his 30th birthday the other day [September 10], he’s officially in the old man club now, like me.

“But he’ll be flying and I think that carrot of, well, I know this, he won’t mind me saying it – he’s not even fully fit at this moment, he’s match fit.

“So I think that the international break, everyone [is] talking about him working, it’s great for him, long may it continue.

“And for England, great! Isn’t that a good thing?”

Raheem Sterling ‘treated so badly’ by Chelsea as calls for PFA to intervene emerge

Joe Brophy — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 11:36:37 +0000

Raheem Sterling’s ‘bomb squad’ treatment may have serious consequences on the exiled Chelsea star’s mental health.

That is the belief of talkSPORT host Gabby Agbonlahor, who urged the PFA to intervene over the England international’s situation.

Sterling has no future at Chelsea, with the winger part of their bomb squad

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Sterling shared an insight into what it looks like to be exiled by the Blues

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On Monday night, Sterling laid bare the grim reality of being one of Chelsea’s bomb squad as he trained alone at 8pm.

A day later, Enzo Maresca’s first-team squad were pictured touching down in Germany ahead of the opening match of the league phase of the Champions League against Bayern Munich.

Sterling failed to secure a summer move away from Stamford Bridge after a deadline-day move to Fulham failed to come to fruition.

The 30-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Arsenal, also had interest from Crystal Palace and West Ham but ultimately stayed put.

Sterling’s preference was believed to be to join another London side, but he now faces a further four months without football before the window reopens.

Chelsea boss Maresca has already shot down any possibility of the former England international coming back into the fold.

It means that in the interim, Sterling, who is under contract until 2027, is forced to train on Cobham’s empty training pitches at night.

During an in-depth discussion on talkSPORT Breakfast, Alan Brazil admitted that the winger’s current situation was not right.

His co-host, Agbonlahor, went further to stress that Chelsea’s treatment of Sterling is why fans should be more sympathetic to the likes of Alexander Isak and Yoane Wissa going on strike to secure transfers, considering how clubs act when the shoe is on the other foot.

“I’ve seen it at Aston Villa with players,” Agbonlahor told talkSPORT, “I remember under Paul Lambert, there was a bomb squad that had to go and train together on their own.

Maresca has publicly said there is no way back for Sterling at Chelsea

“Players felt like, ‘Oh, I can’t speak to the bomb squad group. Don’t want to get caught speaking to them.’ It makes you feel so low.

“For Raheem Sterling, yes, last season wasn’t at his best. 17 Premier League games for Arsenal, only four starts, no goals, two assists. But he’s only 30, Raheem Sterling now.

“82 England caps, 20 goals, four Premier League titles, five League Cups, one FA Cup. And he’s training on his own, being treated so badly by the manager.

“This is the problem that I have with some fans, because they moan about players like Isak, like Wissa, wanting to leave. But when a club doesn’t want you, they will treat you like absolute garbage.

“They will make you train at this time. They will make you sit in the changing room on your own, away from your teammates.

“What about Raheem Sterling’s mental health? What about [Axel] Disasi’s mental health?”

Disasi shared an image of a bomb squad dressing room with Lesley Ugochukwu, Armando Broja and Alfie Gilchrist – who have all since left

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‘Money’s not everything’

Sterling joined Chelsea from Manchester City in July 2022 for a fee of £47.5million and has gone on to make 81 appearances.

He was the first statement signing following the takeover by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, but his high wages meant the club made it clear they wanted to offload him this summer.

His salary, reported to be over £300,000 per week, has become another sticking point in his relationship with fans.

“Because he earns £325,000-a-week it’s fine?,” Agbonlahor argued.

“Money’s not everything – Sterling earning £300,000 a week has got nothing to do with his mental health, or being on his own training.

“At that sort of time, you’ve been taken away from your teammates, you’re close with. You’re used to coming in at 9am, training at 10am with your teammates. I just don’t like it.

“I don’t like anything about it. What harm is Raheem Sterling going to cause training with that Chelsea team?

“Why can’t he be on the opposite side when you’re doing shape? Do you know what I mean? It just doesn’t sit right with me.”

Disasi and Sterling both went out on loan last season and now form a two-man bomb squad

Raheem Sterling’s mental health

Brazil also suggested another possibility would be that Sterling could be kept away from the dressing room if he were a bad apple.

However, Agbonlahor rightly pointed out that he is not that sort of player, having mentored many young players during his career.

Chelsea even made reference to Sterling’s leadership skills during a feature on their website last year, entitled ‘A positive influence’.

Agbonlahor stressed: “He’s not that sort of lad [to disrupt the dressing room] – it makes me dislike managers that do that to players.

“Maresca, you’re better than that. Think about players’ mental health as well.

“Money isn’t everything. Raheem Sterling, earning £350,000 a week, has nothing to do with him, and where he’s headed at the moment.

“People will throw that out there. I can imagine now people listening, ‘Oh, you know, he’s only on £300,000 a week’.

Sterling was unable to secure a move away from Stamford Bridge

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Cole Palmer claimed Sterling is ‘massively underrated’

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PFA urged to intervene over Chelsea bomb squad

In August 2024, the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) revealed it was pushing for clubs to stop using bomb squads.

Three years ago, FIFA updated their regulations to state in Article 14 (2) that forcing a player to train on their own may result in a club engaging in ‘abusive conduct’.

Agbonlahor has now joined the growing calls urging the PFA, the players’ union in England, to step in and help stars like Sterling.

“It’s just not right,” he continued. “And I know it’s happened to a lot of players at a lot of football clubs.

Sterling failed to reignite his career on loan at Arsenal last season

“That’s why there’s no loyalty in football. Because when a player wants to leave and wants to kick up a fuss to get out of a football club, fans are like, ‘How shocking that is. How dare you? You’re contracted.’

“When a club doesn’t want you, Alan, they will do everything to drive you out of that football club. They want you down in the dumps, so you just leave.

“I’m just glad I played when I played because it’s just ridiculous.

“Surely the PFA can do something about it. They’ve got to come into it. I’m sure you have to have more than five or six players. I have to check this out. You could just go home if you wanted to.

Kompany and Sterling won two Premier League titles together at Man City

“There’s got to be a certain amount of players that you’re training with. I think that’s a rule that clubs have to have.

“So maybe they’re using some of the younger lads, the Under-21s, Under-18s, that they might be training with.

“But also, Alan, sometimes when it happened at Villa, I saw the older players go and kick the young players. Because you’ve lost your head at being in the bomb squad.

“You’ve got to go and train with these Under-18s who are at it, they’re hungry to succeed. And they’re running past you, and you’re just kicking them. I saw that all the time.”

‘Not me, it’s you’ – Rasmus Hojlund promises to be the player Man United thought they were buying

Joe Brophy — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 11:41:00 +0000

Rasmus Hojlund is already promising to be the next Manchester United flop that have managed to go on and succeed elsewhere.

That is the verdict of European football expert Andy Brassell, who stated the Dane has ‘immediately clicked’ on loan at Napoli.

Hojlund scored just 14 minutes into his Napoli debut against Fiorentina

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Hojlund needed just 14 minutes on his debut for Antonio Conte‘s men to open his Serie A account for the Italian champions on Saturday.

The 22-year-old helped his new side maintain their 100 per cent record in the league during a 3-1 away win at Fiorentina.

It was his first appearance for any club this season, having been left out of each of United’s first three Premier League fixtures.

The striker, who was also excluded from the Red Devils’ Carabao Cup defeat to Grimsby last month, was made surplus to requirements after Benjamin Sesko’s arrival.

talkSPORT reported in June that head coach Ruben Amorim preferred to keep Joshua Zirkzee and sell Hojlund this summer.

Having initially expressed his intentions to stay and compete for his spot at United, the Denmark international was eventually forced to accept his future lay elsewhere.

However, his decision to follow Scott McTominay to Napoli already looks to be an inspired one following his impressive debut.

Hojlund’s strike doubled the visitors’ lead on the night after Kevin De Bruyne had opened the scoring from the penalty spot.

It was his first goal since joining on a season-long loan from United, with an obligation to buy if Napoli qualify for the Champions League.

If triggered, it would see him complete a permanent switch for £38million – just two years on from arriving at Old Trafford for £72m.

European football expert Brassell said Hojlund has ‘immediately clicked’ at Napoli

Speaking on talkSPORT’s Trans Europe Express podcast, Brassell said: “Hojlund scored a fantastic goal to put them 2-0 up, and immediately he’s clicked.

“He talked afterwards about what an incredible opportunity it was to go to Napoli.

“It always felt like United were keener to get rid of him than he was to leave, and maybe he was just waiting for an opportunity that probably wasn’t going to come on his form over the last couple of years.

“But really, the Romelu Lukaku injury has changed everything.

“It meant they had to go back into the market for a striker when they thought they’d completed their transfer market.

“And then he comes into the team, and a really supremely confident finish straight away.”

Conte expects more positive performances to come from Hojlund

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Hojlund is already on his way to matching the 14 league goals he scored for Man United

Conte teases Man United after Hojlund’s Napoli debut

The ex-Chelsea and Tottenham manager fired a cheeky dig at the Red Devils after Hojlund hit the ground running on his return to Italy.

“Hojlund is only 22 years old, we got him from Manchester United, seeing as it brought us luck doing that with McTominay,” Conte joked.

Red Devils academy graduate McTominay was named Serie A’s Most Valuable Player after scoring 12 goals in 34 appearances en route to helping Napoli win the Scudetto in his first year in Italy.

The Scottish star is part of a trend at United where players have regained their form after leaving the club.

Lukaku, Marcus Rashford, Antony, Memphis Depay, Anthony Elanga, Dean Henderson, and Angel di Maria are just some recent examples.

Man United took a £30m-plus hit to get Hojlund off the books

Hojlund set to be latest transfer regret

Hojlund has now threatened to become the latest, just weeks after he was branded a ‘£70m trialist’ who is not Premier League quality.

However, Brassell added to the Trans Europe Express podcast: “So you know when they say, ‘It’s not me, it’s you?'”

“Well, it’s not him, it’s United, I think is clear here because he promises to just be the next in a long list of players who’ve looked way short of it at Manchester United but have managed to go on and succeed somewhere else.

“I mean, what does that say for United?

“Not just in the [Ruben] Amorim regime, but I think in successive regimes of United, if a player goes out there and just becomes the player that he always should have been, the player that United thought they were buying.

“It’s a good deal for United until he has a good season and they pick him up for a fee that looks cheap.”

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Pep Guardiola told to release Man City star he once said wouldn’t be sold for €500m

Joe Brophy — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 10:09:15 +0000

Pep Guardiola has been told to let Phil Foden leave Manchester City if he’s not going to be first-choice once he returns from injury.

That’s the opinion of talkSPORT host Alan Brazil, who argued the England international is better than the other options at the Etihad.

If Foden can rediscover his 2023/24 form, he could earn a World Cup spot

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Foden has been hampered by a mixture of fitness and form issues for over a year since his standout 2023/24 campaign.

Coming into Euro 2024 as the reigning PFA Players’ Player of the Year, the ‘Stockport Iniesta’ was earmarked as England’s talisman.

Foden had just registered 19 Premier League goals and eight assists to help City lift a record fourth consecutive Premier League title.

However, he failed to register a goal or assist at the Euros despite starting all seven of England’s games in their run to the final.

That poor form continued into last season, where the 25-year-old only managed seven goals and two assists in the top-flight.

A mark of his downturn has been that he was recently named as the biggest transfer market loser after enduring a £35m value hit.

To compound his issues, Foden revealed off-field issues played a part in his ‘frustrating season’, as he pulled out of England duty in June.

“I’m astonished he’s not playing at the moment, I really am,” Brazil told talkSPORT Breakfast on Thursday.

“A couple of seasons ago, I thought, ‘What a player’. His energy levels, some of the goals he scored, were magnificent.

“Could Phil really miss out on the World Cup next summer? I think it’d be a disaster if he did.”

Foden hasn’t been able to hit the ground running this season

‘Wake-up call’ for Foden

Foden, who last featured for England against Latvia in March, was accused of underperforming for his country by Stuart Pearce.

A lack of fitness ruled him out of contention this month, with Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer ahead of him in the pecking order.

Morgan Rogers has since staked his claim to be an option in Tuchel’s No.10 role after impressing during England’s 5-0 thrashing of Serbia.

Gabby Agbonlahor admitted: “It’s a bit of a wake-up call for him.

“He’s had injury problems at the end of last season and at the start of this season, and has only made one appearance.

Foden was once an automatic pick for both club and country

“But if you look at his stats last season, 28 games in the Premier League, seven goals, two assists.

The season before, when he won Player of the Season, was 35 appearances, 19 goals, eight assists.

“He needs to get back to that sort of form for me to break into this England squad now.

“Because I just look at the options they’ve got, and I look at [Eberechi] Eze. For me, he’s a starter at Arsenal.

“Morgan Gibbs-White, a starter at Forest. Jude Bellingham, definitely a starter at Real Madrid. Cole Palmer, a starter at Chelsea. And Morgan Rogers is a starter at Aston Villa.

“Phil Foden’s not a guaranteed starter at Man City now.”

Guardiola once said City wouldn’t sign anyone else for the No.10 position

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But Cherki looks set to be out until November with an injury

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Brazil: ‘Let Phil go’

Brazil argued that Foden is better than the players Guardiola currently has ahead of him when all of his options are fully fit.

Foden started just one of City’s four matches at the Club World Cup, but still left the tournament with three goals and an assist.

In America, Guardiola preferred Savinho and Jeremy Doku as wide options, with January arrival, Omar Marmoush, and summer signing, Rayan Cherki, also vying for minutes, albeit the latter duo have both recently sustained injuries.

When discussing City’s pecking order, Brazil told talkSPORT: “Let Phil go then, let him go – he’s too good a player not to be playing.”

Agbonlahor replied: “I think he’s got a big part to play.

“When he’s back from injury, he needs to get back into that starting side now that Cherki is injured. Marmoush is injured as well.

“And he [Foden] needs to get those performances back. Show that hunger that got him player of the season.

“If he doesn’t, the players that are ahead of him…”

City's injury list

Rayan Cherki, Thigh Injury, potential return: 01/11/2025
Mateo Kovacic, Calf/Shin/Heel Injury, potential return: 04/10/2025
Josko Gvardiol, Other, potential return: 14/09/2025
Savinho, Other, potential return: 14/09/2025
Marcus Bettinelli, Knock, potential return: 14/09/2025
Abdukodir Khusano, Knock, potential return: 14/09/2025
Philip Foden, Ankle/Foot, potential return: 14/09/2025
John Stones, Other, potential return: 14/09/2025
Kalvin Phillips, Calf/Shin/Heel, No Return Date

What has happened to Foden?

Man City have sold an abundance of young talent under Guardiola, who have since become Premier League and European superstars.

Palmer and his Chelsea teammates, Liam Delap and Romeo Lavia, Liverpool defender Jeremie Frimpong, and Jadon Sancho are just a handful of Etihad academy players who became household names at other clubs.

Yet that has never been a risk until now with Foden, who Guardiola once said couldn’t be sold – even if a €500million bid came in.

Foden last featured for England against Latvia in March

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Discussing his recent issues, Agbonlahor added, “The season where he scored 19 Premier League goals, he was cutting in off that right-hand side, and he was whipping them into the top corner nearly every game.

“You didn’t really see that last season. Sometimes you have to have a word with yourself and say, ‘Listen, I need to get my standards back.’

“Now we’ve got a squad, and there are only three more qualifiers before the World Cup starts, with top talent, Morgan Rodgers, knocking on the door.”

Brazil shot back: “I think you’re being harsh on Foden, by the way.

“I don’t think we’ve seen him and given him a chance. I really don’t – and City are struggling, that doesn’t help.”

Michael Owen tips Liverpool star for ‘player of the season’ despite claims he’s ‘forgotten his joy’

Joe Brophy — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 14:48:25 +0000

Michael Owen has claimed that there is no question about Florian Wirtz’s talent following scrutiny over the start to his Liverpool career.

The Reds broke the British transfer record twice this summer, first doing so to sign the German in a deal worth £116.5million in June.

Wirtz has shown signs of feeling the pace of the Premier League, alongside his undoubted quality

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Liverpool later shattered their own record on deadline day with the £125m capture of Alexander Isak, who is yet to make his debut.

As a result, Wirtz has spent the opening weeks of the new season as the face of the Premier League champions’ eventual £446m splurge.

However, despite flashes of quality, Liverpool fans are still awaiting a breakout performance in red from the club’s new No.7.

The former Bayer Leverkusen playmaker is yet to register a single Premier League goal or assist in his first three matches in England.

“It’s fair to say that he hasn’t set the Premier League alight,” Owen admitted exclusively to talkSPORT, via betting site BetSelect.

“But it’s also fair to say there have been three games, and you can absolutely tell he’s quality.

“In the Community Shield game, he did a couple of things that took my breath away, and I was like, ‘I’m more excited about seeing him than any other player this season.’”

Wirtz joined Liverpool as one of only two players to both score and assist ten or more goals across the last two seasons in Europe’s big five leagues, alongside his new teammate, Mohamed Salah.

The 22-year-old lay on Hugo Ekitike’s opener in the Community Shield defeat to Crystal Palace, but has struggled to stamp his mark on Premier League wins over Bournemouth, Newcastle, and Arsenal.

Owen claimed: “It’s fair to say he’s been reasonably quiet in the three games so far, but he is adapting to a new league.”

Wirtz is still waiting for his first official Liverpool goal

Owen has seen enough from Liverpool’s £116m signing to prove he’ll be a future hit

talkSPORT

‘No question at all about Wirtz’s talent’

“He is adapting to new teammates,” former Liverpool striker Owen continued. “There are more things that he’s got to get used to.

“There’s no question at all about his talent. He could be absolutely anything he wants to be.

“I’m including the player of the season, one of the best players in the world, in the future.

“But it is possibly just going to take him a little bit of time. I would not be worried at all.

“I think it is premature, but I’m not going to sit here and say he’s not been quiet in the first three games, but they have won all three games, and he’s played a part, and I’m sure he’ll continue to grow into it.”

Former Reds striker Owen is in no doubt that Wirtz will live up to the hype

Wirtz receives brutal German media verdict

Pressure on Wirtz ramped up during the international break, having come in for some harsh criticism while playing for his national team.

The German international surprised many in his homeland by moving to Anfield over linking up with Bundesliga giants, Bayern Munich.

Wirtz was lambasted by local media for his performance in Die Mannschaft’s shock 2–0 defeat to Slovakia last week.

He responded in the perfect fashion by scoring an inch-perfect free-kick to seal a 3–1 win over Northern Ireland on Sunday.

However, Wirtz still found himself the target of German critics, with BILD rating him a grade three despite his stunning goal.

Westdeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung gave him a four and wrote: “He seems to have forgotten his joy of playing in Liverpool.

“But not his free-kick skills in the 3-1 win, which boosted his rating.”

Wirtz had an obvious message to critics of his form in Germany

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Wirtz responds to critics

The German Footballer of the Year showed what he made of all the criticism with his celebration on Sunday, by pointing to his ear.

“It’s another league, another type of football,” Wirtz said of his slow start during an interview with RTL. “I’m happy to be there.”

Asked if he believes he will open his account for Liverpool soon, he added: “I have no idea when I’ll score my first goal, hopefully in the next game [against Burnley], but it will come at some point.”

Barcelona isn’t the right choice for Marcus Rashford despite club rubbishing Manchester United return rumours

Joe Brophy — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 21:20:24 +0000

Marcus Rashford made a mistake joining Barcelona because he won’t be given the game time to properly rebuild himself.

That is the opinion of European football expert Andy Brassell, who argued that the Catalans can’t meet the England star’s needs.

Rashford needs gametime to return to his top level

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Rashford showed flashes of quality but unmistakable signs of rust during the Three Lions’ 2-0 win over Andorra at Villa Park.

talkSPORT’s Adrian Durham rated him a 5/10, while Thomas Tuchel named the forward as a player he wanted more from post-match.

Ironically, it was Rashford’s stint at Villa Park during the second half of last season that helped end his exile from the international fold.

However, the 27-year-old has been warned that he’s not been as successful in picking his second successive loan after joining Barca.

Rashford completed a season-long switch from Manchester United to the Spanish giants earlier this summer, with mixed results thus far.

The winger impressed for Hansi Flick’s side during pre-season, but has endured a subdued start to his competitive career at Camp Nou.

Rashford has had to make do as a substitute from the bench in two of the Blaugrana’s first three LaLiga games of the season.

His only start for the club saw him hooked at half-time during Barca’s 3-2 comeback win over Levante, with the club 2-0 down at the break.

As a result, reports in Spain emerged over the weekend that Barcelona chiefs were considering sending him back to Old Trafford.

That has been rubbished by sources close to the club, but Rashford has still been warned that the Nou Camp was the wrong option.

Rashford struggle to impose himself in England’s win over Andorra

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Tuchel said ‘As long as he trains like he did and behaves and is active and alive in the group, then we will always trust him and push him and support him’

Rashford stats vs Andorra

Minutes played: 68

Total shots: 1

Shots on target: 0

Chances created: 0

Successful passes: 24

Touches in the opposition box: 2

Touches: 44

Dribbles attempted: 4

Possession won: 0

What Rashford needs

Speaking exclusively on talkSPORT’s Trans Euro Express, European football expert Brassell discussed Rashford’s current form.

“How likely was it that he would ever be able to find the consistency of game time that he can properly rebuild himself at Barcelona?” he questioned.

“Because really, what Marcus Rashford needs is to be dropped into a team for 15 games.

“It’s like, right, play me every minute or play me most minutes for 15 games. And that can never happen at Barcelona.

“The fact that Deco said at the beginning, the most important thing for us is not defensive reinforcements.

“It’s not even a goalkeeper, even though they went out and got Joan Garcia, and he’s going to work out great for them. What we need is cover to relieve Raphinha.”

Rashford is hoping to turn his loan into a permanent transfer next summer

Rashford won’t play centre-forward

Brassell’s talkSPORT co-host, Danny Kelly, pointed out that cover was the operative word in Rashford’s case.

Barcelona’s first-choice at left wing, Raphinha, registered 34 goals and 25 assists across 57 appearances in all competitions last term.

Speaking in June before his loan move, Rashford highlighted his ability to play as a striker in an attempt to showcase his versatility.

Yet Brassell claimed: “There’s never really been a question that they play him centre-forward.

“It’s thought that if [Robert] Lewandowski can’t play, Ferran Torres plays instead. A very different type of striker.

“But actually, as Pep Guardiola and Luis Enrique correctly identified ages ago, a very natural centre-forward, even if he isn’t a big bruiser.”

Barcelona have insisted that Rashford is part of Flick’s project

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Rashford’s Man United return rumours

“Absolutely rubbish that Barcelona is planning to end Marcus Rashford loan deal early,” Spanish football expert Guillem Balague wrote on X.

“Barca told his representative that they have a lot of confidence in Rashford’s potential and that they believe he will recover as a top player.”

During an exclusive interview with talkSPORT.com last month, Brassell already hinted at when Rashford can expect his role to be greater.

“I think once the Champions League starts and they’ve got game, game, game, game, game, game, game, then Rashford starts to become really important,” he explained.

“That’s the bit, I think, especially with an eight-game Champions League group where they know that they’re going to have to change the team, and now they understand the format a little bit.

“I think teams are going into it blind last season, not really knowing how many points they need to get top 24 or top eight or whatever.

Rashford is enjoying a new lease of life in Catalonia

“But whereas now I think there’s a marker, I think we’ll see teams probably shuffle their teams, their first 11s, a little bit more efficiently this season.

“I would imagine then Rashford starts getting proper games.”

‘Historic transfer’ – Polish side signed Arsenal graduate from Premier League team named biggest loser of summer window

Joe Brophy — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Leeds were named the big losers of this summer’s shopping spree – and it could be even worse as one transfer is eyeing history.

talkSPORT Breakfast host Jeff Stelling argued the Whites have had the worst window, with one former star now hoping to become a household name abroad.

talkSPORT host Stelling did not hold back in his view’s on Leeds’ transfer window

Greenwood joined Leeds from Arsenal in 2020 as a 19-year-old and made 35 senior appearances for the club

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Sam Greenwood has started his journey from the fringes of Leeds United to a potential European star at Polish side Pogon Szczecin.

The former Arsenal academy player has spent the entirety of his career in England before a surprise transfer to the Ekstraklasa.

The 23-year-old first came through the ranks at Sunderland before the Gunners beat out Manchester United to sign him as a teenager.

Two years later, Leeds completed a six-figure purchase of Greenwood upon their return to the Premier League in the summer of 2020.

The England U21 international has now found himself on the move again following the Whites’ latest Championship promotion.

However, this summer, Greenwood, who spent last year out on loan at Preston North End, following a season-long stint at Middlesbrough, has joined Polish side Pogon for €4million (£3.5m).

While the fee is a drop in the ocean for Premier League clubs, it represents a huge investment for the three-time Conference League qualifying hopefuls.

Tan Kesler, who was appointed CEO, vice-president and minority shareholder at Pogon in March, was key in targeting the Leeds star.

The former Hull City vice-chairman exclusively told talkSPORT.com: “It was quite an exciting transfer for us, obviously.

“Me being from England, and then knowing the Championship dynamic, knowing the league’s organisation right down the street from us and also knowing how much they invested in players like Sam, Joe Gelhardt.

Pogon have parted with a seven-figure fee to land the England youth star

Greenwood will wear the No.90 for his new club

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“I was in Hull very highly and knew him from our scouting department, Lee and the rest of our recruitment specialists; they all knew him from even [his] Arsenal days.

“To be honest with you, we believe the Championship intensity could be very useful for extra class-up.

“Sam has always been a dynamic player, versatile, had different things to offer on the pitch, whether it’s a false nine, whether it’s a ten or whether sometimes it’s an eight.

“We were in need of a position in such, but also we were looking for a marquee player who could commence other leagues.

“Poland is an emerging market. We’re known as developing players, selling players, but at the same time, it’s just a high-level, very high-intensity league.

“We wanted to convince people that players from other big leagues and top players would consider coming to Poland and be a marquee player and be an example for many other English players.”

Greenwood was highly-rated among the England youth set-up

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Poland is an emerging market

This summer has seen young English talent head to Germany, with Carney Chukwuemeka and Jarell Quansah leaving Chelsea and Liverpool for Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen, respectively.

Jonathan Rowe has found his feet at Italian club Bologna after leaving Marseille, but Greenwood has broken the mould in Poland.

Kesler explained: “He’s suited technically in our system, he’s suited for personality checks. He has an amazing family. His father was brilliant.”

Greenwood’s record arrival is not just an investment for Pogon now – it will hopefully be one that will pay dividends in the future.

Jadon Sancho‘s decision to quit Manchester City for Germany started a trend that Jamie Gittens, Jude and Jobe Bellingham all emulated.

The Netherlands has also proved a hotbed in recent history, most notably with Mason Mount, Noni Madueke, and Dominic Solanke.

Greenwood headed to Poland this summer as Jobe moved to Germany

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Creating a pathway for English talents

In the same vein, Greenwood could act as the first of a line of emerging English talent that head to the Ekstraklasa for gametime.

“We wanted to create a pathway between England to Poland and Poland to England,” the 46-year-old told talkSPORT. “Not just a pathway, it’s more like a trusted channel between the player acquisitions.

“Sam is a no-brainer, and I have to thank our president because he personally got involved with me to convince him, and he pushed all his financials to make the deal happen as well.

“I look at the bigger picture. Sam is an ambassador, and hopefully, he’s going to represent English talent in Poland in a way that not only players will come here but also we want foreign investors to come in and invest in Polish football and extra-cluster teams so that we can develop the league.

“Then be able to create high standards and increase the standards of football, and be suitable for English talent as well.”

The Turkish businessman had been aware of Greenwood since his time at Arsenal

Getty Images - Getty

Greenwood is going to be this trendsetter

“It’s not just a simple plan,” Kesler continued. “It was more like a broader picture here. Sam has a bigger mission than just being an English-talented top player coming into Poland.

“He’s not only a leader, he’s a marquee player, but also he’s going to be this trendsetter or example for all the English players who want to consider playing in the Polish league as well.

“He already made an assist and made his debut, and that shows that he’s focused. Also, for English players, there are limited pathways to many countries.

“We also need and want to use homegrown talents as well. That’s why I think in England players are getting stuck with certain leagues being homegrown, and they’re very sceptical going abroad if it’s not the top leagues.”

Greenwood scored one goal and provided 4 assists in 25 Premier League appearances

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Greenwood’s decision to take the plunge is all the braver considering Pogon almost went bust earlier this year.

The Polish top-flight side were 18 hours away from losing its licence before Kesler, along with owner Alex Haditaghi, helped turn the tide.

The Pride of Pomerania have since reached the Polish Cup final and enjoy sell-out crowds in excess of 20,000.

On Pogon’s pitch to Greenwood, Kesler revealed: “I think the most significant part that he was more interested in, as a club, when we took over as an ownership, we’ve specifically said that we want to achieve something that hasn’t been achieved for the club’s history since 1948, which is winning a title.

“We’ve told him that he will be part of a special group to achieve something that hasn’t been achieved in over 70-plus years. That kind of opened his and his family’s eyes.

“Of course, we have a brand new stadium, two years old, full capacity, every home game 22,000. We had to show him that.

Pogon Szczecin are helping develop Polish domestic football’s reputation across Europe

“That also made him believe that this is a big city in Poland and a big club that has big ambitions and ownership and has also strong and big ambitions to achieve something special.

“We also told him how close we were, which probably made him more impressed. We were a cup finalist last year and the year before.

“He knew that we were always going to be chasing the European competitions. He did say, honestly, to be fair, he felt like he wanted to take up a challenge in Europe and be a European player, a high-level European player.

“Obviously, there are a number of British players going from England to Germany, Italy. We thought about why not Poland.

“He was very keen on it. He realised that it could be his starting point to go to bigger leagues from us.

“I’m not going to deny that we’re still an emerging league compared to Italy, Germany, Bundesliga. We are not underdeveloped.

“We currently have three teams playing in conference, European competitions and regularly in the group stage. He saw that pathway.

“I think that’s what made him convinced. This was the pitch that we’ve given it to him.

Kesler impressed during the nearly three years at Hull as vice-chairman

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Pogon have been indebted to the work he has done on and off the pitch

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“Aside from obviously, our president is also a very sentimental and emotional person. I sent him an offer with a very emotional message. He was also surprised that he had some kind of family environment in here that he wanted to be part of as well.

“I really have to thank him for understanding and being open-minded to our project in Poland. Of course, he had his own demands.

“That’s why I thank our president for pushing his financials as well. We’ve invested in Sam quite significantly.

“He’s one of the most historic players for us in terms of what we are investing financially. But it was not a financial discussion.

“He really was on board to play European football. We had to convince him that we can give him that European football within the infrastructure and management we have.

“He spoke to the coach. The coach loved him. He loved the coach. They discussed his position.

“He was convinced. Everything came along, and he didn’t have too many doubts further on.”

‘Not worth it’ – Newcastle told they overspent on Alexander Isak replacement

Joe Brophy — Sun, 07 Sep 2025 14:27:05 +0000

Bayern Munich’s honorary president, Uli Hoeness, has delivered a scathing swipe at Newcastle over the signing of Nick Woltemade.

The Bundesliga champions were heavily interested in the German striker prior to his club-record £69million move to the Magpies.

Newcastle replaced Isak with Woltemade

The deal eclipsed the £63m Newcastle forked out to sign Alexander Isak in 2022, who ironically completed a British transfer record £125m move to Liverpool on deadline day.

The arrival of Woltemade ended Eddie Howe‘s summer-long hunt for a striker after missing out on multiple targets.

The 23-year-old appeared to be one of the names on that list, having been earmarked to stay in his homeland by joining Bayern Munich.

However, Vincent Kompany‘s side failed to agree a fee with rivals Stuttgart, which opened the door for Newcastle to hijack the move.

During negotiations, Hoeness was left angered by Bayern legend Lothar Matthaus seemingly driving up Woltemade’s price tag by publicly claiming €80-100m (£69-86m) was a fair valuation when the Bavarians were offering a lot less.

The lower end of that estimation ultimately proved to be exactly what Stuttgart managed to extract from Newcastle.

During an interview with German TV channel SPORT1, Hoeness was asked about Matthaus’ correct prediction and replied: “He was just lucky.

“He [Woltemade] isn’t worth the €90million”, Bayern’s honorary president continued in a dig at Newcastle and their PIF owners.

“That only happened because of the money flowing from Saudi Arabia.”

The signing of Woltemade represented a huge coup for Newcastle, given Bayern saw three bids rejected for the 6ft 6ins forward.

Newcastle fended off competition from Bayern Munich

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Hoeness claimed that the Toon overpaid

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‘Bayern were prepared to go all in for him’

European football expert Andy Brassell was previously full of praise for Woltemade ahead of his arrival on Tyneside.

Speaking on The Transfer Insiders last month, he said: “I think he’ll be a really good addition, and it is really impressive how they’ve kept this on the down-low because they keep getting gazumped by other clubs.

“Bayern were prepared to go all in for him. They were very, very keen. He was keen to go there. They wouldn’t get to the number that Newcastle have, and it has been a meteoric rise for him because he arrived on a free transfer from Werder Bremen, where he wasn’t a regular, and Stuttgart have turned him into this player in the space of less than a year.

“If you are looking for someone who is quite a faithful replacement for Isak with a high upside, I am not sure you could have signed many better players than him.

“He’s 6ft 6in, but he’s not your typical target man. He likes to drop and dribble.

“When Bayern wanted him, and Bayern were very keen, they thought he could play with Harry Kane.

Woltemade started Germany’s shock loss to Slovakia

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“I don’t know if there are many higher compliments than that because he’s got a very high football intelligence. He doesn’t lose the ball very often, and he’s constantly progressing.”

‘Not ideal that the best German players are moving to England’

Woltemade began last season simply nicknamed ‘Big Nick’ due to his 6ft 6in frame, but ended it called the ‘Two Metre Messi’.

In 2023/24, he broke through at Werder Bremen, but only scored two goals in 30 games, and they both came in the same match.

Stuttgart saw enough to see him make the step up to a Champions League team, and were rewarded with 17 goals and a club-record sale.

While the opportunity to replace Isak at Newcastle is a huge one, Woltemade’s national team manager expressed his one big concern.

The striker followed Liverpool’s Florian Wirtz in surprisingly snubbing a move to Bayern for a Premier League transfer from the Bundesliga.

Woltemade and Florian Wirtz both favoured moves to England over staying in the Bundesliga

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Julian Nagelsmann said: “I’m happy when they play a lot of games and get a lot of minutes, that’s the most important thing for me.

“It’s not ideal for the German Bundesliga that the best German players are moving to England. But that’s how it is.

“It’s kind of normal at this period of time.”

Nagelsmann’s comments come in the wake of Germany‘s shock 2-0 loss in Slovakia – their first ever World Cup qualifying away defeat.

‘Mbappe calls me every two hours’ – Liverpool star opens up on Real Madrid transfer interest

Joe Brophy — Sun, 07 Sep 2025 12:09:41 +0000

Liverpool contract rebel Ibrahima Konate has joked that Kylian Mbappe calls him every two hours over a move to Real Madrid.

The defender has entered the final year of his deal at Anfield and can sign a pre-contract agreement with overseas clubs in January.

Konate is close friends with France teammate Mbappe

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The 26-year-old has established himself as Virgil van Dijk‘s chief centre-back partner since joining from RB Leipzig in 2021.

However, Konate is into the final 12 months of the five-year deal he signed with the Reds and has attracted interest from elsewhere.

Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and clubs in Saudi Arabia have all been touted as potential suitors for the Frenchman.

Konate attempted to keep his situation tight-lipped on international duty, but couldn’t resist joking once the topic of his future arose.

During a yes/no game on French TV, Téléfoot, presenter Séverine Parlakou asked: “The Spanish press is sending you to Real Madrid next season. Kylian Mbappé is putting a bit of pressure on you to come?”

“He calls me every two hours!”, the Liverpool star laughed in response, having also denied that he has already learnt Spanish.

For Arne Slot, though, Konate’s future is no laughing matter, having already lost one key defender to the Spanish giants this summer.

Liverpool couldn’t keep hold of vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold after he similarly rejected new deals to head to Madrid..

talkSPORT understands the Reds did bank £10million despite the right-back departing upon the expiration of his contract.

Konate, meanwhile, who has featured 136 times in all competitions since joining in 2021, could now follow in his footsteps next season.

Konate also risked upsetting Liverpool fans by choosing Dembele over Salah for the Ballon d’Or

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Ibrahima Konate yes/no transcript

Michael Olise is the worthy successor of Antoine Griezmann for France? Yes, I hope.

Is Dayot Upamecano one of the best defenders in the world right now? Yes

How is his neck after his goalsaving header vs. Ukraine: “I’m used to it. A backward header.”

Does he want to play with Paul Pogba for France? Yes

Does he want to play with Bixente Lizarazu? (Laughs) “It’s my dream” presenter responds: “But I’m too late, I’m done.”

Is it true that you speak Spanish? No. Parlakou: Hablas Español? No.

The Spanish press is sending you to Real Madrid next season. Kylian Mbappé is putting a bit of pressure on you to come? He calls me every two hours.

On Liverpool facing Marseille in the Champions League at the Velodrome. Are you scared? No, but we know that the Velodrome is tough. We like these atmospheres. We like them a lot

Hugo Ekitike is going to wreak havoc in the Premier League – Yes, I hope so. Yes.

Last season of Didier Deschamps as France manager. Does that make you a bit sad? Yes, but no. Because if it’s his decision, I’m happy. It’s really thought out for him. So I’m happy for him too.

Will Ousmane Dembélé win the Ballon d’Or on September 22nd? Yes.

Is that right for you? Yes.

Will Konate win the Ballon d’Or one day? Yes, yes, yes!

On Manu Koné being underrated: “Yes, we don’t talk about him enough. We see him, but we don’t talk about him enough.“

Going to give Deschamps the World Cup as a parting gift? First, we’d have to qualify to start...I hope so. Yes, yes. Yes. We’re going to do everything.

Did you lie during this interview? Yes

When we spoke Spanish? I lied, but not on this question.

I’m telling you, he lied on this question. He speaks Spanish very well. He speaks Spanish very well

‘That tells me Konate’s leaving’

He is a Premier League, FA Cup, Community Shield and two-time Carabao Cup winner with the Merseyside outfit.

Liverpool have already hinted at their succession plans for Konate, having targeted central defenders heavily this summer.

“If Liverpool are in for Marc Guehi, that signals to me that Konate is more on the side of leaving,” Jermaine Pennant told talkSPORT.

“I’m thinking, is this a situation like Real Madrid and Trent Alexander-Arnold, where Liverpool are saying to Guehi, ‘Just see your contract out and we will look after you’?

“Because Konate is in the same situation, he’s in the last year of his contract and they haven’t agreed a deal.

Mbappe wants another Liverpool man to be his new Real Madrid teammate

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Liverpool are set to move ahead with their pursuit of Guehi in January or at the end of the season – but they will have competition

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“So Liverpool might be saying to him, ‘Look, Konate’s going to go at the end of this season, Marc Guehi, you see out your contract and come, join us for on a free and we’re prepared to offer you this’.”

Ultimately, the Premier League champions’ move for Crystal Palace captain Guehi fell through in a huge twist on deadline day.

A deal sheet for a £35m switch to Liverpool had even been submitted, yet the Eagles’ lack of replacement saw the club pull the plug.

Leoni has just received his first senior Italy call-up

talksport

Liverpool could switch to a back-three

Slot’s men retain an interest in signing Guehi at a later date, while they did complete a £26m transfer for Giovanni Leoni.

The 18-year-old, who has already been named the heir to the Van Dijk throne, will take this season to bed in with a greater role next year.

Discussing Leoni’s potential pathway at Anfield, Troy Deeney told talkSPORT: “He’ll play enough games this year to adapt and get used to living in Liverpool and the pressures because it is a different pressure, right?

“But I think next year, with [Ibrahima] Konate going, it’s a seamless [transition]…I can see Liverpool playing three at the back.”

Ranking the biggest transfer market value losers from £70m trialist to ‘qualified failure’

Joe Brophy — Sun, 07 Sep 2025 10:15:04 +0000

Premier League clubs splashed a whopping £3 billion on transfers this summer – but not every player has proved value for money.

The summer window saw Liverpool break the British transfer record twice in what has increasingly become an oversaturated market.

It’s been a difficult 2025 for some of Europe’s best talents

Liverpool paid above Isak’s market value, but still have got a winner

Attackers particularly saw their worth skyrocket this year, with Gianluigi Donnarumma’s £26million move to Manchester City the most expensive goalkeeper move in talkSPORT’s £608m transfer XI.

At the other end of the scale, Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak spearhead the team, as they soon will at Anfield, having completed moves worth £116.5m and £125m respectively.

It remains to be seen which of the new arrivals will prove value for money in 12 months, considering the fate of similar stars before.

Things move fast in football, as the old saying goes, which means that those who were once worth big bucks are now much cheaper.

talkSPORT.com takes a look at the top 10 players who have suffered the greatest decrease in market value since the start of January, according to transfermarkt.

10. Gavi (€60m, £52m) – Down €20m (£17.4m)

The 21-year-old was considered one of the brightest midfield talents in the world when Barcelona won LaLiga in 2022-23.

However, he ruptured his ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) in November 2023, which saw him miss Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph.

Gavi returned to action 11 months later last October, but has since struggled to reassert himself as first-choice under Hansi Flick.

The Spaniard started just 11 of Barca’s 29 matches in LaLiga after his comeback, and only played a combined 21 minutes across both legs of the club’s Champions League semi-final defeat to Inter Milan.

Gavi was introduced in the 106th minute of the second-leg semi-final epic

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Gavi has continued his substitute role this campaign and has since suffered a fresh knee issue to add insult to literal injury.

The La Masia graduate signed a new contract in January with a €1bn (£836m) release clause – but now is worth just a tenth of that.

9. Eduardo Camavinga (€60m, £52m) – Down €20m (£17.4m)

Barcelona’s rivals, Real Madrid, face similar problems with their own midfield starlet, who was once heralded as Casemiro’s successor.

Los Blancos fought off stern competition from Premier League clubs to sign Camavinga from Rennes in 2021, which initially looked a steal.

The customary Spanish £1bn release clause was plugged into the 22-year-old’s contract extension he signed in November 2023.

Camavinga has suffered five injuries in the last 12 months

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Earlier that year, the Frenchman had become the youngest player in Madrid history to win all six club trophies available at the Bernabeu.

However, he has at times been forced to operate as a makeshift left back, such is the depth of midfield competition at the club.

Cruelly, Camavinga has been unable to take advantage of Toni Kroos’ retirement and Luka Modric’s exit due to a flurry of injuries.

The 2022 World Cup finalist is yet to play a minute this term, having suffered a sprained ankle on the eve of the new season.

It is the fifth separate injury Camavinga has suffered in the last 12 months, which limited him to 19 appearances in LaLiga last season.

Camavinga’s new deal expires in 2029, which means there’s plenty of time to get his value back up

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8. Rodri (€110m, £96m) – Down €20m (£17.4m)

The Ballon d’Or winner could make the argument that his value should have increased during his recent struggles with injuries, such has been Man City’s fall-off in his absence.

Rodri became the first Premier League winner of the Golden Ball since Cristiano Ronaldo when he beat out Vinicius Junior in October.

The Spaniard lifted football’s greatest individual prize as a reward for winning both the Premier League and Euro 2024 with Spain.

But an ACL injury sustained on his first start of last season saw Man City endure their worst run of form in 18 years en route to failing to win a historic fifth consecutive title.

A 3-2 defeat to Brighton on Saturday was the first Premier League match City have lost with Rodri in the starting XI since February 2023.

“I’m not Messi. I’m not going to come back and just make the team win and win and win,” said Rodri afterwards. “This is a collective, when we won in the past, I needed all my teammates.

“For sure I need to recover my best level and we have to look to all of ourselves. It is a collective sport. Hopefully, after the [international] break we can be much better.”

Rodri has starred for Man City and Spain before his injury

7. Erling Haaland (€180m, £156m) – Down €20m (£17.4m)

If this one comes as a surprise, it may just be that the Norwegian put such an impossible value on himself with his record form.

Haaland smashed in 52 goals across all competitions in his first season at the Etihad en route to winning City’s first treble.

His absurd debut season saw him set a record for the most Premier League goals scored in a single season with an incredible 36.

Having finished runner-up to Lionel Messi in the Ballon d’Or, the 25-year-old has naturally seen a slight drop off from those standards.

Haaland’s 27 goals in 2023-24 remained enough to retain the golden boot and defend City’s crown, before last season’s woes.

His 34 strikes in all competitions were his fewest since the 2021/22 season for Borussia Dortmund, where he’d played 18 fewer games.

Nevertheless, Haaland has been tied down to a new City contract whose total value is £250m – £100m more than his transfer worth.

Haaland has three goals in as many games despite City losing back-to-back matches

AFP

Season	Club	Appearances	Goals
2016/17	Molde	20	4
2017/18	Molde	30	16
2018/19	Red Bull Salzburg	5	1
2019/20	Red Bull Salzburg	22	28
2019/20	Borussia Dortmund	18	16
2020/21	Borussia Dortmund	41	41
2021/22	Borussia Dortmund	30	29
2022/23	Manchester City	53	52
2023/24	Manchester City	45	38
2024/25	Manchester City	48	34
2025/26	Manchester City	3	3

Erling Haaland’s incredible career goal record

6. Bernardo Silva (€38m, £33m) – Down €22m (£19m)

The 31-year-old completes the Man City trifecta that has seen their stocks fall amid the club’s ever-turbulent calendar year.

Silva was branded as Pep Guardiola’s ‘favourite player’ as recently as April 2023 following his ever-present role in the Etihad set-up.

But the six-time Premier League winner was only fit to claim the less coveted honour of being the top-flight’s slowest player last term.

Despite his waning influence on the pitch, Guardiola did show how much he still values Silva by making him the club captain in June.

GettySilva will depart City as a free agent as it stands next summer[/caption]

5. Rasmus Hojlund (€35m, £30m) – Down €25m (£22m)

The Dane will be desperate to claw back some of his value on loan at Napoli after two tough seasons at Manchester United.

Hojlund managed to score only 26 goals in 95 appearances for the Red Devils since he joined in a £72m deal from Atalanta in 2023.

Just four of those came in the Premier League last season, and he was made surplus to requirements after Benjamin Sesko’s arrival.

Hojlund was even branded a ‘£70m trialist’ who is not Premier League quality by talkSPORT’s Tony Cascarino last month.

It’s understood Napoli have a conditional obligation to buy Hojlund, worth €44m [£38m], included in his initial season-long loan move.

Should the Serie A side qualify for the Champions League, they will have to pay United that fee and sign him permanently next summer.

Coupled with the €6m [£5.2m] loan cost, Ruben Amorim’s men stand to rake in more than Hojlund’s actual value despite the loss overall.

Man United took a £30m-plus hit to get Hojlund off the books

4. Dusan Vlahovic (€35m, £30m) – Down €25m (£22m)

Newcastle were told to make a late move for the former Arsenal target last month, and their refusal to do so said it all.

Juventus were willing to accept offers as low as €30m – below even his actual value – to get the Serb off their wage bill.

However, talkSPORT revealed Vlahovic was not a hot topic at St James Park as Newcastle instead signed Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade.

The Old Lady paid over €70m (with bonuses) for the striker in January 2022, beating out Arsenal and other top European clubs.

Three years on, the 25-year-old stands to leave Turin as a free agent next summer, having done little to justify his €12m-a-year wages.

Vlahovic has managed 60 goals over his 147 appearances for the Bianconeri, including two in two in just 38 Serie A minutes this term.

Vlahovic has been a long-term Premier League target

3. Martin Odegaard (€85m, £74m) – Down €25m (£22m)

The Arsenal captain has come under intense scrutiny from club legends following a struggle with both fitness and form.

Tony Adams claimed that Odegaard should be stripped of Arsenal’s captaincy, with Martin Keown expecting more from him creatively.

The Norwegian has worn the armband since the start of the 2022/23 season, and has overseen three successive runners-up finishes.

During that period, his numbers have dropped from 15 Premier League goals, to eight, and then just three in the top-flight last term.

Odegaard also endured a 66-day spell out injured at the start of last campaign, and is without a single goal contribition this term either.

Speaking after Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final exit to Paris Saint-Germain, Danny Murphy told talkSPORT’s White & Jordan: “I think he just gets a little bit overawed by the real big one.

“I can see it in him – He’s not as risky in his play. He’s not as free!”

Odegaard has struggled to return to top form after several injuries

AFP

2. Vinicius Junior (€170m, £148m) – Down €30m (£26m)

October 28, 2024 was the date the Brazilian’s seemingly unstoppable trajectory was brought to a screeching fault by France Football.

Vinicius Jr finished second behind Rodri in the Ballon d’Or, with Real Madrid infamously refusing to send any representatives to the ceremony following leaks that their talisman would not win.

The 25-year-old was defiant in his response on social media, writing: “I’ll do it 10x if I have to. They’re not ready.”

Unfortunately for Vinicius, he has struggled to live up to that claim with his performances dipping dramatically since finishing second.

Under new boss Xavi Alonso, the winger started Madrid’s 1-0 season-opening win over Osasuna, but was dropped for matchday two.

Vinicius was restored to the starting XI on Saturday, and rewarded his manager’s show of faith by scoring the winner against Mallorca.

Even if the attacker fails to return to top form, ongoing interest from Saudi Arabia will mean Madrid’s valuation will more than be met.

The Brazilian’s drop-off was alarming

1. Phil Foden (€100m, £87m) – Down €40m (£35m)

The ‘Stockport Iniesta’ has seen his stocks fall to an all-time low in what should be his biggest year to date, for both club and country.

This season, Foden has the opportunity to live up to his tag as Kevin De Bruyne’s long-term successor at Man City.

A stellar 2023/24 campaign saw him named the PFA Players’ Player of the Year as he inspired his side to the Premier League title.

Yet a tally of 13 goals and seven assists in 49 appearances last season represented 20 less goal contributions than that standout campaign.

The 25-year-old revealed off-field issues have played a part in his ‘frustrating season’, as he pulled out of England duty in June.

A chance to demonstrate that he can be a key part of Thomas Tuchel’s plans for the World Cup have since been hampered by injury.

Foden has played just 15 Premier League minutes for Man City this season, having missed two of the club’s opening three matches.

It’s been a disappointing 2025 for Foden, whose place in the Man City starting XI is no longer guaranteed

AFP

‘Never seen anything like it’ – Premier League clubs lost out on £26m teenager as good as Virgil van Dijk

Joe Brophy — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 15:23:32 +0000

Premier League clubs have been warned that Liverpool already have the perfect Virgil van Dijk replacement in new signing, Giovanni Leoni.

That’s the verdict from London City Lionesses CEO Martin Semmens, who oversaw the developments of both at Southampton and Parma.

Leoni is highly-rated across Europe and Liverpool acted quickly to win the race to sign him

Liverpool FC

The former Saints CEO claimed Liverpool, who signed current captain Van Dijk during his time at St Mary’s, have pulled off another coup.

Italian defender Leoni snubbed interest from other Premier League clubs to complete a £26million move to Anfield last month.

The 18-year-old was perhaps the most low-key signing of Liverpool’s £446m summer spree on arrivals for the new season.

The Reds broke the British transfer record twice, first with £116.5m Florian Wirtz, and then when Alexander Isak joined for £125m.

The last time the Merseysiders made such a statement in the market was ironically when now-skipper Van Dijk arrived for £75m in 2018.

In Leoni, whom Semmens helped bring to Parma from Sampdoria last year, Liverpool have been told they have the Dutchman’s successor.

“Yeah, absolutely for me [Leoni is the heir to the Van Dijk throne],” Semmens told Matterface, Crook & Deeney on Friday.

“I think it was clearly the best young centre back in Italy, if not Europe. And again, we sold him the vision to come to our club to play in Serie A.

“I think it was 17 when he started playing, and then when the right moment comes, you will go.

Leoni has just received his first senior Italy call-up

talksport

Leoni ‘as good as Virgil van Dijk’

“Our understanding was the same with the keeper we bought, [Zion] Suzuki the Japanese keeper. Man United tried to buy him. That’s a rumour I can semi-confirm.

“The view was that they would probably stay there longer than one year, but Leoni was such a level, and again, I think it highlights Liverpool’s ability that they spotted that.

“Five or six Premier League teams asked me,” Semmens added. “I told them he’s as good as Virgil.”

“Liverpool never called me, never asked for a reference, because they’ve got such an ability to find those players. Top player!”

Leoni left Parma for Liverpool just a year after joining

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Liverpool beat Newcastle to Leoni transfer

In July, talkSPORT revealed that at least ten Premier League clubs had enquired about signing Leoni.

Among those were Liverpool, Newcastle and Tottenham Hotspur, with the former completing a deal for the centre-back a month later.

Parma CEO Federico Cherubini has since revealed the club initially turned down a higher offer from Newcastle for Leoni.

However, the Italian club ultimately relinquished their bid to hold onto the teen due to his desire to link up with Arne Slot’s side.

Leoni marshalled Lukaku when Parma held champions Napoli

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The 6’4 teen bested the 32-year-old

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Leoni took Lukaku out of the game

Semmens revealed that one of the final moments from Leoni’s short stint at Parma remains one that will live long in the memory.

On the penultimate match of the season, Parma were in the midst of a relegation battle when they hosted champions-elect Napoli.

Yet Leoni ensured the Serie A title race went down to the wire after dominating Romelu Lukaku during a goalless stalemate in May.

“He took Lukaku out of the game,” Semmes reflected to talkSPORT. “We went to Napoli needing to get a point, and he marked him out of the game.

“I’ve never seen anything like it – just literally knocked him over!

“I spent my life losing to the likes of Troy [Deeney] and Lukaku’s bullying our centre-backs, and Leoni could do it.

“So I think he’s a top player. I don’t understand the pathway for him in terms of whether he’ll play this year or not.

“But at some point, yeah, I think he’s the long-term [replacement for Van Dijk].”

Deeney added: “He’ll play enough games this year to adapt and get used to living in Liverpool and the pressures because it is a different pressure, right?

“But I think next year, with [Ibrahima] Konate going, it’s a seamless [transition]…I can see Liverpool playing three at the back.”

‘Best of all time’ – Ranking every Premier League club’s transfer window including Liverpool’s record-breaking summer

Joe Brophy — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 22:20:53 +0000

Premier League clubs have ensured deadline day was one of the most dramatic of all time, but not every team are keen to celebrate.

English top-flight sides have spent more than £2billion this summer, with the British transfer record broken twice by the champions.

It’s been one of the most eventful summer transfer windows in memory, with multiple sagas and spending records smashed

Numerous other teams broke their club record for both signings and sales, but which navigated the market the best?

talkSPORT.com ranks ALL 20 clubs’ window from worst to first…

20. Wolves

Exactly where they find themselves in the real table is ironically where Wolves have ended up on this list as well.

The club’s 3-2 defeat to Everton means the Molineux outfit are the only side with no points on the board after the first three games.

That may not be a surprise to their fans, who had to wait until the start of November last season for the club’s first Premier League win.

Since then, Wolves’ starting XI has been pilfered with Rayan Ait-Nouri, Matheus Cunha and Nelson Semedo all leaving this summer.

To add insult to injury, Wolves fans were heard chanting against Fosun and Jeff Shi to ‘back the team or sell the club’ on Saturday.

Even more alarmingly, all three promoted sides this season have invested over £100m each, which isn’t a good omen for the Old Gold.

Vitor Pereira joined the voices calling for new signings, with Tolu Arokodare completing his £24m move from Genk, while Jørgen Strand Larsen was kept out of Newcastle’s clutches in another welcome boost.

Strand Larsen sat in the stands to watch Wolves fall to a 3-2 defeat by Everton

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19. Fulham

The Cottagers have been up against it on-and-off the pitch so far, with a VAR mix-up proving deeply costly in their defeat to Chelsea.

What hasn’t been costly is the club’s balance sheet this window, with manager Marco Silva even bemoaning Fulham’s lack of business.

Backup goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte was the sole arrival for the majority of the summer for less than £500,000.

Their long-standing interest in turning former loanee Reiss Nelson into a permanent addition even failed to come to fruition.

Fulham did manage to survive a late hijack attempt from Porto to seal a club record £34.6m move for Shakhtar Donetsk winger Kevin.

Meanwhile, they also signed Samuel Chukwueze from AC Milan.

However, a £22m deadline day deal for Chelsea’s Tyrique George fell through in a huge setback for both player and Fulham.

Following a record Premier League points tally and an 11th-place finish last term, Fulham have missed an opportunity to back Silva.

Marco Silva lamented Fulham’s transfer activity at the start of the season

18. West Ham

The Hammers received a huge boost with their 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest, highlighted by Lucas Paqueta’s celebration.

The Brazilian’s commitment to West Ham after they rejected Aston Villa’s offer worth £47m has just been enough to avoid bottom place.

Before Sunday, things were looking extremely dicey in east London after three straight defeats in all competitions, conceding 11 goals.

Captain Jarrod Bowen was also captured confronting some of the travelling supporters in the aftermath of the club’s Carabao Cup exit.

Hammers hero Dean Ashton argued Graham Potter has been let down in the transfer window, with Mohammed Kudus a high-profile exit.

Club legends Aaron Cresswell, Lukasz Fabianski, and Vladimir Coufal were all moved on with no real succession plan in place, with deals for Mads Hermansen and Callum Wilson not setting the world alight.

Late deals for Mateus Fernandes and Soungoutou Magassa, on the back of that morale-boosting Forest win, has improved the mood slightly.

As things turned out, West Ham played a huge role in the dramatic deadline day story with the loan capture of Brighton defender Igor Julio leading to Marc Guehi missing out on a move to Liverpool…

Potter has received the backing of West Ham’s decision-makers – but not in the market

AFP

17. Crystal Palace

The Eagles get a slight bit of leniency in that, for months, they didn’t know if they were selling Europa League football or a Conference League campaign to both prospective targets and their key stars.

Ultimately, it proved to be the latter – which may have been the definitive blow in any hopes of retaining Eberechi Eze.

It’s unfair to expect Yeremi Pino to provide the same quality as the England star, but it’s undeniable that Palace have downgraded.

Keeping Eze from returning to his boyhood Arsenal may have always been impossible, but the same can’t be said for Marc Guehi.

Palace have been aware for over a year that their captain wasn’t extending his stay at Selhurst Park, and yet their manager and owner found themselves at odds over whether to stick or twist by deadline day.

Oliver Glasner only just won the battle in holding onto Guehi, but the Eagles now run the risk of failing to build on the greatest era in their history.

Christantus Uche, Borna Sosa and Walter Benitez may all help in bulking out Palace’s squad for their debut European campaign.

But Glasner, who has one year left on his deal, cast doubt over his own future in response to his frustrations at another poor window.

If the impressive Austrian does leave Palace this summer’s activity will be a watershed moment in his historic tenure in south London.

Eze played a massive role in Palace winning the FA Cup and Community Shield

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16. Aston Villa

It’s hard to quantify how much Unai Emery‘s transfer plans were altered after a goal they didn’t get against Manchester United on the final day of last season led to them missing out on Champions League football.

Villa had invested heavily to try and build a side regularly able to compete in Europe’s elite, and now financial restrictions from dropping into UEFA‘s second tier have hamstrung further investment.

PSR woes meant fans have had to say goodbye to one of their own, with Jacob Ramsey the fall guy, having been forced to Newcastle.

A £30m move for forward Evann Guessand represented the only major signing for Emery until deadline day.

He was given his first start for the club in the 3-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, but the Ivory Coast striker was hooked at half-time.

Two Manchester United flops have since followed Guessand through the door, with Victor Lindelof a free agent since leaving Old Trafford.

Villa fans will hope Emery gets the same tune out of Jadon Sancho that he did from his last Red Devils loanee in Marcus Rashford.

The pair’s England colleague, Harvey Elliott, was also snapped up, while Emiliano Martinez, who was left out of their squad on Sunday, did stay put but has had his commitment to the club questioned.

Villa have yet to score a goal this season

15. Brentford

On balance, the Bees have suffered more than the five clubs below them in this list but have at least done what they can to back their manager.

In June, owner Matthew Benham would have thought that would have been Thomas Frank, but Tottenham swooped to land him.

Both of last season’s top goalscorers, Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa, eventually left – as did captain Christian Norgaard.

But in the cases of Mbeumo and Wissa, Brentford made Manchester United and Newcastle pay over the odds to complete a move.

Brentford did add some firepower as a much-needed replacement for the outgoing front duo with Reiss Nelson joining on a season-long loan from Arsenal. However, Nelson is yet to consistently perform in the Premier League.

Jordan Henderson is a shrewd signing to replace Norgaard’s leadership, with a club-record deal for Dango Ouattara also sanctioned.

Despite his mistake in the 2-1 defeat to Brentford, goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher will show his worth long-term.

The Irishman was a snip at £12.5m (rising to £18m), perhaps the only example of Liverpool not maximising the value of one of their sales.

Mbeumo and Wissa were one of the best scoring duos in England last season, but both ended up leaving

Getty

14. Leeds

The Whites would have bitten your hand off for four points from their first three Premier League games, with two clean sheets.

A 5-0 thumping at Arsenal aside, a win over Everton and a draw to Newcastle showed that they can compete at the top-flight level.

But the goalless stalemate on Saturday underlined the need for attacking arrivals, with a penalty their only Premier League goal thus far.

That at least came via their new striker, Lukas Nmecha, but the signing of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who hasn’t hit double digits for Premier League goals since the 2020/21 campaign, with just three in 26 appearances for Everton last season.

Leeds deserve credit for their £100m outlay on new stars, with Anton Stach and Sean Longstaff the standouts from the 10 fresh faces.

However, several key targets were missed out on, including Harry Wilson, Gustavo Hamer, Eduard Spertsyan, Igor Paixao, and Facundo Buonanotte.

Free transfers Calvert-Lewin and Nmecha have patchy goal and injury records

13. Bournemouth

It says a lot about the success of the Cherries’ recent transfer windows that they’ve had Europe’s elite fighting for their stars.

Milos Kerkez, Illia Zabarnyi, and Dean Huijsen have all departed for Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, and Real Madrid, respectively.

The trio were always going to leave this summer, but any team losing such a level of quality would have a damaging effect.

As they’re now renowned for, Bournemouth looked to have replaced well, with Adrien Truffert and Bafode Diakite impressing early.

Alex Jimenez, Djordje Petrovic, Amine Adli, and Ben Gannon-Doak all represent smart value in today’s market.

Arguably, their biggest boost was tying down Antoine Semenyo, who had attracted interest from Tottenham Hotspur prior to signing a new deal.

The departures of Neto and Ouattara have left Bournemouth slightly light in the back-up goalkeeper and striker departments, though.

Semenyo netted twice in the opener against the Premier League reigning champions

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12. Brighton

The Seagulls have served as the blueprint which Bournemouth have had to study this summer after years of losing their top talents.

Again, it was Chelsea, and this time it was Joao Pedro, whose fee has seen Brighton recoup just shy of £300m in fees from the Blues in just three years.

But they did succeed in giving Man United the hands-off during thier brief pursuit of midfielder Carlos Baleba.

As previously reported, Brighton owner Tony Bloom wants to keep Baleba for at least one more season.

Bloom believes Baleba will eventually be worth as much as £115m transfer Moises Caicedo.

Head coach Fabian Hurzeler has been one of the rare Premier League bosses to publicly admit that he is happy with his squad.

Brighton landed their key targets early, with summer signings afforded time to ease in, bar Maxim de Cuyper.

Stephanos Tzimas, Babis Kostoulas and Tommy Watson all could blossom into future stars in the Amex environment.

However, there is a sense that the club are light up top following Pedro’s exit and Evan Ferguson‘s departure on loan to Roma.

Danny Welbeck remains the only recognised number nine, with Giorginio Rutter preferred in deeper areas.

Brighton has been a happy hunting ground for Chelsea in recent seasons

11. Burnley

Scott Parker has been armed with 14 new signings in a bid to survive in the Premier League, with a promising start to the campaign.

Defeats away to Tottenham and Man United won’t decide Burnley‘s fate, with a huge six-point victory over Sunderland in between.

The Clarets have matched their fellow promoted rivals in spending £100m, but it’s yet to be seen whether they’ve got value for money.

Armando Broja has joined for an undisclosed fee believed to be worth up to £20m from Chelsea, having failed to score in ten Premier League appearances on loan at Everton last year.

Similarly, his ex-Blues teammate Lesley Ugochukwu arrived in a similar deal, but has a job on his hands protecting a Burnley back line that has shipped three goals in two of their three top-flight games.

On the flip side, a £5m deal for England’s Kyle Walker from Man City could be one of the best pound-for-pound moves of the summer.

Benfica midfielder Florentino Luis then became a highly welcome deadline day boost in another coup for the Turf Moor outfit.

The 26-year-old has joined initially on loan, with a conditional obligation to buy for a club-record £20.8m.

Parker has a beefy Burnley squad to try to survive this year

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10. Manchester City

Pep Guardiola became the first manager to spend €2billion on signings in history this summer, and yet similar problems exist.

Mistakes this time last year forced City into one of the most expensive January windows in football history with a £123m spree.

Half a year on, only Omar Marmoush looks to have shown anywhere close to the price tag shelled out for him to move to the Etihad.

City have attempted to conduct the bulk of their business before the Club World Cup to avoid similar errors this summer.

But Guardiola was denied his first-choice long-term successor to talisman Kevin De Bruyne, when Florian Wirtz opted for Liverpool.

His back-up option, Rayan Cherki, scored on his Premier League debut but is now sidelined for two months through injury.

Tijjani Reijnders has shown why he was named the Serie A Midfielder of the Year during his early Premier League career.

In contrast, goalkeeper James Trafford has already found himself usurped as Guardiola’s No.1 three games into his return to the club.

Incoming signing Gianluigi Donnarumma is an undeniable upgrade between the sticks, but De Bruyne, Walker, Ederson and Jack Grealish‘s departures all leave a void in the dressing room.

GettyTrafford signed for City this summer but has already lost his place[/caption]

9. Manchester United

Ruben Amorim has splashed over £230m this window, months after Sir Jim Ratcliffe claimed the club could ‘go bust by Christmas’ without cost-cutting measures.

Despite another poor start to the season, it’s hard to argue that United have not had a more positive summer than first feared.

Man United came into the summer market off the back of their worst-ever Premier League campaign by finishing 15th.

They were also beaten in the Europa League final, which suggested transfer activity would be hampered by no European football.

However, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko all snubbed interest from elsewhere to move to Old Trafford – the first two also being proven Premier League goalscorers, despite their comparatively slow starts in red.

A fanciful move for Brighton’s Baleba never materialised, but more importantly, goalkeeper Senne Lammens did arrive on deadline day.

In terms of outgoings, Christian Eriksen, Jonny Evans (since retired) and Lindelof have all been released to trim the wage bill.

Bomb squad members Rashford, Sancho, Antony, and Alejandro Garnacho have also all left, either on loan or permanently.

The Red Devils got in on the deadline day excitement with the signing of Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens to provide competition for the struggling Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir.

Mbeumo and Cunha scored nearly as many goals as Man United managed as a team in the Premier League last season

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8. Newcastle

The Magpies are proof that it’s not how you start, but how you finish, having been on track for an all-time disastrous summer last month.

Anthony Elanga represented the only new arrival on Tyneside for a huge portion of the window, as numerous players rejected moves.

Hugo Ekitike, Joao Pedro, James Trafford, Liam Delap, and Sesko were among the targets who opted for different Premier League clubs.

Then came the saga of the summer after Isak asked to leave, and then made his future at the club untenable.

His eventual move to Liverpool is obviously a blow to Eddie Howe, but the Swede was at least sold on Newcastle’s terms for a £125m fee.

The Toon secured a coup of their own with a club-record £69m deal for Nick Woltemade, who had been eyed by Bayern Munich.

Newcastle also managed to get Wissa over the line before the deadline, with Ramsey another impressive addition.

Isak aside, the rest of the group at St James’ Park that delivered the Carabao Cup and returned to the Champions League remains intact.

Considering where Newcastle may have found themselves as recently as two weeks ago, it’s been a mighty recovery to rescue the window.

Bayern rated Woltemade enough to see him as a partner and eventual successor to Harry Kane

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7. Nottingham Forest

Mr Marinakis can pat himself on the back with another summer window well done – though Nuno Espirito Santo will disagree.

Forest captain Morgan Gibbs-White turned his back on a move to Tottenham after they thought they had activated his £60m release clause.

Forest lodged a legal complaint after they believed Spurs’ approach was illegal, which sparked a total U-turn from the midfielder.

He pledged his long-term future to the Reds, penning a new three-year deal to keep him at the City Ground until 2028.

Callum Hudson-Odoi has since followed suit by signing an extension of his own, with Elanga the only star from last season moving on.

Forest have spent around £180m this summer, the most eye-catching of their 10 new arrivals proving to be Dan Ndoye, who already has a goal and assist in his opening three Premier League games.

Former Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz has arrived on a season-long loan from Juventus, with Dilane Bakwa signing on deadline day.

England Under-21 starlets Omari Hutchinson and James McAtee are both smart purchases from Ipswich and Man City, respectively.

And on deadline day they announced more deals including that of Oleksandr Zinchenko from Arsenal.

But all of that good work in the market threatens to be undone by manager Nuno’s ongoing spat with owner Evangelos Marinakis.

Nuno has been in charge of Forest since December 2023

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6. Everton

Gabby Agbonlahor was right to warn Premier League clubs to be wary of Everton this season following the arrival of Jack Grealish.

The England international has gone from forgotten at City to the Toffees’ main man in near-record time.

The former Aston Villa captain has already claimed four assists after just two Premier League starts for his new loan side.

In fact, Grealish is in contention for best single signing of the window, but Everton have also spent over £100m to back David Moyes.

Moyes previously admitted ‘we’re just finding it very difficult’ to complete deals, but Thierno Barry, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Tyler Dibling have all made the switch to Hill Dickinson Stadium.

German midfielder Merlin Rohl was plucked from Freiburg before the deadline, but a new right-back failed to prove the icing on the cake.

Moyes admitted Grealish ‘probably needs a bit of love and attention’ after revitalising his career

5. Chelsea

There haven’t been many transfer windows since Todd Boehly and co. took over at Stamford Bridge that the Blues haven’t won the window.

Again, Chelsea have proved a real force across the market with another £270m accrued in sales from fringe players.

But it’s not been perfect with their outgoings, highlighted by the recall of Marc Guiu from his Sunderland loan just three games into the season amid uncertainty around the future of Nicolas Jackson.

The latter eventually succeeded in pushing through his move to Bayern Munich, but Raheem Sterling is among the stars still in exile.

However, Joao Pedro has enjoyed a sensational start to his Chelsea career, with Estevao one of the brightest young talents around.

Question marks remain over some of the transfer strategy at the club, with Enzo Maresca admitting Garnacho is ‘quite similar’ to Jamie Gittens despite signing both this summer.

The Chelsea boss also publicly stated he wanted a new centre-back following Levi Colwill‘s serious injury, but none arrived.

Xavi Simons was a well-known target, but instead joined Spurs, while no goalkeeping replacement for Robert Sanchez materialised.

Garnacho became Chelsea’s seventh signing of the summer

Chelsea FC via Getty

4. Sunderland

Even the most optimistic around the Stadium of Light couldn’t have envisaged the summer the club have enjoyed.

The Black Cats sealed a club-record sale of £31m move to allow Jobe Bellingham to join Borussia Dortmund days after their Championship playoff final triumph.

Yet far from that being a sign that Sunderland would struggle in the Premier League, Regis Le Bris has been backed to the hilt.

Sunderland have now surpassed Nottingham Forest’s £142m spree in the summer of 2022, which was a British record for a promoted club.

The termination of Guiu’s loan is undoubtedly a blow, but one that the Wearsiders countered on deadline day with Brian Brobbey.

The Ajax striker joined his Netherlands countryman at RB Leipzig, defender Lutsharel Geertruida, in a double swoop on Monday.

Habib Diarra remains the statement arrival after completing a club record £30m from Strasbourg.

Granit Xhaka and Nordi Mukiele have both swapped Champions League football to move to Sunderland.

Their statement of intent has been backed up on the pitch, with the Black Cats winning both of their opening two home matches thus far.

Sunderland will hope to avoid the bottom three this season

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3. Tottenham Hotspur

Spurs boss Frank is in a curious scenario where he has missed out on key targets and yet has simultaneously conducted fantastic business.

Key defender Cristian Romero committed his long-term future to the club, with Kevin Danso and Mathys Tel‘s loans made permanent.

The Lilywhites then atoned for their slip-ups in doomed deals for Eze and Gibbs-White by pulling off a coup with the arrival of Simons.

The departure of captain and club icon Heung-Min Son, coupled with James Maddison‘s serious injury, meant more was still needed.

Joao Palhinha has a case for being the bargain of the summer, joining on loan from Bayern just a year after Fulham sold him for £42.3m.

Elsewhere, Kudus has proven an instant upgrade to Frank’s attacking options and already has two assists from his opening three matches.

Following the disappointing 1-0 defeat to Bournemouth, Spurs landed Randal Kolo Muani on loan from PSG on deadline day.

The Frenchman spent the second half of last season at Juventus, where he scored 10 goals in 22 games across all competitions.

Spurs completed the signing of Chelsea target Xavi Simons in a deal worth £51m

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2. Arsenal

Unfortunately for the team that has finished Premier League runners-up for three straight years, it’s second place again.

Until the final week of the window, Mikel Arteta had overseen the best business of any manager with several key signings.

The long-awaited arrival of former Liverpool target Martin Zubimendi and Norgaard served as upgrades on Jorginho and Thomas Partey.

Kepa Arrizabalaga and Noni Madueke are also high-quality back-ups to David Raya and Bukayo Saka.

Hijacking arch-rivals Tottenham’s move for Eze was another major boost, with Viktor Gyokeres finally ending Arsenal’s search for a No.9.

However, where the Gunners have been let down has been in moving on fringe stars, as another window has come and gone, where Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s £35m move to Liverpool in 2017 remains the club’s record sale.

Jakub Kiwior, Albert Sambi Lokonga, and Fabio Vieira all left for relatively small fees, but Leandro Trossard is still on the books.

Eze made his Arsenal debut in the defeat to Liverpool

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1. Liverpool

Was there any doubt? talkSPORT.com was already predicting it to be the ‘best transfer window of all time’ at the end of July.

That bar is an extremely high one, and not one to be taken lightly, with Premier League clubs often at the forefront of such debates.

Best transfer window ever?

Honourable mentions go to Man City’s 2010/11, (Yaya Toure, Mario Balotelli, David Silva, Aleksandar Kolarov, Jerome Boateng, James Milner), Chelsea’s 2004/05, (Didier Drogba, Ricardo Carvalho, Paulo Ferreira, Arjen Robben, Tiago, Petr Cech, Mateja Kezman), and of course, Real Madrid’s 2009/10, (Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Kaká, Xabi Alonso, Raúl Albiol and Álvaro Arbeloa).

However, in all three cases, those clubs were building teams to return their clubs to the top, not from a position of strength.

Liverpool are already the Premier League champions, but hinted at what was to come by tying down captain Virgil van Dijk and talisman Mohamed Salah.

They have since smashed the British transfer record twice, first for Florian Wirtz and now Alexander Isak on deadline day, although they were hit with the late setback of seeing their £35m move for Guehi fall through.

The data miners at the Reds have even signed the Swede’s successor with the £79million signing of Hugo Ekitike, who has hit the ground running at Anfield, with the arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili serving the same role for Alisson Becker.

Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, at ages 24 and 21, will be Liverpool’s two full-backs for the next decade, injuries permitting.

18-year-old centre-back Giovanni Leoni has just received his first Italy call-up, which shows the coup the Reds have got in the defender.

That’s just the incomings – Liverpool have also accrued £220m in sales, starting with an £8m fee for just three weeks of outgoing vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez have both been flogged for a combined triple-figures, with a buyback clause also inserted on Jarell Quansah.

A dramatic summer has ended with Isak as a Liverpool player

liverpoolfc.com

Top ten most expensive Premier League transfers ever: Liverpool break record for second time with Alexander Isak signing

Marc Williams — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 20:32:26 +0000

The Premier League has had its most expensive signing record broken twice in one transfer window – and both deals have been done by Liverpool.

Alexander Isak has finally joined Liverpool from Newcastle in a British record deal, ending a summer-long saga with the striker moving to Anfield from St. James’ Park.

Isak has become the all-time record signing in England

liverpoolfc.com

Florian Wirtz’s £116million move earlier this summer gave the record to Liverpool, taking it from Chelsea, who previously held top spot after signing Moises Caicedo from Brighton for £115million in August 2023.

But that deal is now going to drop to third in the all-time list, with the Blues also having the fourth-highest ever transfer fee following their signing of World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez from Benfica for £106.5million.

Meanwhile, Manchester United had a long history of being the leading spenders in England and former star man Paul Pogba had previously been the top-flight’s priciest player.

However, that all changed in the summer of 2021 when Manchester City bought Jack Grealish from Aston Villa.

Man City did hold the record after spending £100million on England maestro Grealish, but now that deal has slipped down the list.

Arsenal’s £105million signing of Declan Rice makes him the most expensive British player of all time, although he still sits behind the Chelsea duo and will remain behind Liverpool’s new signings in the history books too.

So, Isak will top this list once his move goes through, but who makes up the current top ten?

Here, talkSPORT.com looks at who has cost the most in English top-flight history.

10. Antony (Ajax to Manchester United in 2022) – £86million

Antony is already primed for a move away from Old Trafford

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9. Mykhailo Mudryk (Shakhtar Donetsk to Chelsea in 2023) – £89million

Mykhailo Mudryk’s move to Chelsea hasn’t been too successful so far

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8. Paul Pogba (Juventus to Manchester United in 2016) – £89million

Former Man United star Paul Pogba never justified his price tag at Old Trafford

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7. Romelu Lukaku (Inter Milan to Chelsea in 2021) – £97million

getty Romelu Lukaku’s move back to Chelsea didn’t go to plan[/caption]

6. Jack Grealish (Aston Villa to Manchester City in 2021) – £100million

Grealish was once the most expensive Premier League player ever

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5. Declan Rice (West Ham to Arsenal in 2023) – £105million

Arsenal broke the British transfer record to sign Rice in 2023

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4. Enzo Fernandez (Benfica to Chelsea in 2023) – £106.8million

Fernandez has become a leader at Chelsea

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3. Moises Caicedo (Brighton to Chelsea in 2023) – £115million

Caicedo has his record fee beaten by Wirtz

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2. Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen to Liverpool in 2025) – £116million

Wirtz lost his record transfer title after just a few weeks

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1. Alexander Isak (Newcastle to Liverpool in 2025) – £125million

@LFC / X Isak is the new most expensive player ever in the Premier League[/caption]

Manchester United decide against Emi Martinez as target flies in to complete transfer

Connor Andrews — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Manchester United are closing in on a move to sign Royal Antwerp goalkeeper Senne Lammens in an £18million deal, talkSPORT understands.

The Red Devils have decided against bringing in Aston Villa shot-stopper Emi Martinez.

Martinez will not be joining Manchester United this window

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Martinez was an option for United in the closing hours of the transfer window.

Amid speculation he could be on his way to Old Trafford, Martinez was omitted from Aston Villa’s squad for their defeat to Crystal Palace on Sunday evening.

But United have opted instead to sign Lammens, with the 23-year-old travelling to England for his medical and to complete his switch.

Lammens has already agreed personal terms with United on a five-year contract.

talkSPORT first reported Manchester United’s interest in Lammens in July

The Belgium Under-21 international has been left out of his team’s last two league matches amid speculation over his future.

While Martinez to United is off, it is believed that the Villans are actively looking to offload the 2022 World Cup winner before the 7pm deadline on Monday night.

Why are Manchester United signing a new goalkeeper?

United have been plagued by bad performances in goal for much of Ruben Amorim’s tenure.

Altay Bayindir was at fault for Riccardo Calafiori’s matchwinner in their opening game of the season against Arsenal.

He was guilty of another blunder in his side’s recent 3-2 win over Burnley where he was culpable for the Clarets’ second goal – spilling an effort that was then bundled home by Jaidon Anthony.

Lammens is heading to Old Trafford in an £18m transfer

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Both Onana and Bayindir don’t look up for the job as United’s No.1

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Meanwhile, Andre Onana was the face of humiliation against League Two side Grimsby in the Carabao Cup second round.

Lammens was initially seen as a back-up option to Onana, a role that may have been reconsidered after the Cameroonian’s horror start this term and inconsistencies since his arrival from Inter Milan in 2023.

Onana was at fault for both goals in United’s 2-2 Carabao Cup defeat to Grimsby which was decided on penalties, where he also failed to make multiple saves despite getting a glove on the ball.

Amorim was questioned about the goalkeeper in particular post-match, but refused to single anyone out.

“I think something has to change. In this moment, we need to focus on the weekend [against Burnley] and then we have time to think,” he said in response.

“In the first half, I told them that they were speaking really loud to me: ‘I understand what you are doing, what I am seeing. Let’s try to change that in the 45 minutes’.

Bayindir made another mistake in United’s 3-2 win over Burnley

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“It’s not the goalkeepers. It’s more than that. It’s everyone. Thank you.”

Despite his comments, Bayindir was again at fault for Burnley’s second equaliser of the match, with Amorim having to put up another defence.

“They are humans. At Manchester United, everything is analysed,” he said after the edgy 3-2 win.

“Everybody talks about the goalkeeper. And you can see, I can change the goalkeeper and these situations keep happening. We are in that moment.

“I think it is hard to be a Manchester United goalkeeper in this moment. But if you look at the first goal, we can defend it better.

“We suffered a quite similar goal against Fulham, because we don’t do the full rotation of the team when the ball is on the other side.

“All these small things have nothing to do with the goalkeeper.”

Wrexham part ways with ex-record signing who Ryan Reynolds cheekily scolded in X-rated plea

Connor Andrews — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 19:35:59 +0000

One of Wrexham’s most famous faces – Ollie Palmer – has departed the Championship side.

The striker, who had a brief cameo in Ryan Reynolds‘ Deadpool, left by mutual consent with a year still left on his contract in Wales.

Palmer left Wrexham on a high, scoring twice in a League Cup win over Hull in his final game

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Palmer has instead agreed a two-year deal with League Two side Swindon Town.

Wrexham co-owner Reynolds was a huge fan of the player, and dedicated a social media post to him with pictures of their three-and-a-half seasons together.

“Gut punch…Ollie is a big reason we’re in this league today,” he wrote to his 51million Instagram followers.

“Not to mention the boundless charisma and charm…he harnessed a lifetime of talent, heart and work-ethic to push Wrexham and the town forward.

“Spending time with Ollie’s incredible family: his wife, Caitlin, amazing kids and his dad, Andy, are forever-memories. Ollie is my friend now and always.

“The silver lining is Swindon is an excellent club and they get to experience that same feeling Rob McElhenney and I felt as Ollie steps onto the pitch at The County Ground to push Swindon FC forward and up the pyramid. Thank you, Ollie.”

Reynolds then went on to further explain how close their relationship was, and that his mum even had a crush on the 33-year-old.

“P.S. for the love of all that’s holy, DO NOT tell my Mom her boyfriend is changing shirts,” he hilariously wrote.

“Tam-Tam is unpredictable. Swindon can expect her to storm the pitch to provide fresh orange slices to Ollie without warning.

“She’s 80 years old. But homegirl is strong. Despite it making no sense at all…she JUST NOW qualified for the 1988 Olympics.

InstagramReynolds paid a heartfelt tribute to the departing star[/caption]

Wrexham's summer window

Ryan Hardie (£700,000 from Plymouth Argyle)
Danny Ward (Free transfer from Leicester City)
Liberato Cacace (£2.2m from Empoli)
George Thomason (£1.2m from Bolton Wanderers)
Josh Windass (Free transfer from Sheffield Wednesday)
Lewis O’Brien (£3m from Nottingham Forest)
Conor Coady (£2m from Leicester City)
Kieffer Moore (£2m from Sheffield United)
Nathan Broadhead (£10m from Ipswich Town)

OUT

Paul Mullin (Loan to Wigan Athletic)
Will Boyle (Undisclosed fee to Shrewsbury Town)
Luke McNicholas (Undisclosed fee to Forest Green)
Steven Fletcher (Released on a free)
Sam Dalby (Free transfer to Bolton Wanderers)
Jordan Davies (Released on a free)
Mark Howard (Free transfer to Salford City)
Liam Hall (Released on a free)
Brad Foster (Free transfer to Ross County)
Josh Adam (Free transfer to Ceske Budojovice)
Luke Bolton (Undisclosed fee to Mansfield Town)
Jake Bickerstaff (Loan to Cheltenham Town)
Ollie Palmer (Free transfer to Swindon Town)

“We suspect she’s on something a little stronger than calcium supplements. Her birthday card to Hugh Jackman said, ‘Do you even lift, bro?’ That’s it. Not even ‘Happy birthday’.”

In fact, it’s not just the Canadian’s mother Tammy that he has to be careful introducing to Palmer, but also his wife, Blake Lively.

Speaking in 2023, he said: “Every time we’ve come as a family we’ve come over we have a walk down to the dressing room.

“Ollie is always the first one to walk out, completely shirtless, to have a conversation with my wife.

“I’m like Ollie put a f****** shirt on and come back out to speak to her like a gentleman.”

Palmer’s Wrexham legacy

Palmer initially joined Wrexham in January 2022 for a then-club record £300,000 from Wimbledon.

Palmer was a key part of the club’s back-to-back-to-back promotions

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The Dragons were in the National League at the time, and the Epsom-born striker helped them on their way to a record three-straight promotions all the way up to the Championship.

Scoring 46 goals in 150 games for the club, Palmer was a popular figure, and regularly appeared on the Disney+ documentary Welcome to Wrexham as one of the club’s most outspoken players.

Commenting on his departure in a social media post, he said: “It’s been an absolute privilege and honour to be at this football club and to be able to achieve the things that we have.

“There’s going to be many more great moments for this football club and five, ten, fifteen or twenty years down the line, I want to be able to watch and be able to be in the stands and enjoy myself.

“The relationships within that dressing room are so strong. I think winning and getting promotion has definitely helped grow those bonds.

“There’s just something special about this football club, something that you want to last forever.

InstagramMcElhenney was just as sad to see Palmer leave[/caption]

“Wrexham’s going to have a place in my heart for the rest of my life. It’s been the best three-and-a-half years of my career so far, easily, and it’s something that can never be taken away from me.”

It wasn’t just Reynolds who loved the goalscorer either, but also his co-owner McElhenney who paid his own tribute.

The It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia star wrote in an Instagram caption: “I think the first photo is the first time I met this gloriously handsome, supremely gifted, kind and charismatic man.

“A great Husband, Dad, friend and of course footballer. Ollie, I can’t believe it’s time for you to move on. I’m in awe of your grace and (yes I swear) your humility.

“People only see what happens in public. They don’t know the Ollie I do. He’s given us so much. And I will miss him and his beautiful family.

“My only hope is that he has success on the pitch and returns to us in some capacity because he will always, always, always be a member of Wrexham and always have a home with us.”

Chelsea to grant Nicolas Jackson transfer exit amid Bayern Munich interest – but on one major condition

Alex Conrad — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 15:16:59 +0000

Chelsea are prepared to sanction a loan with an obligation to buy for Nicolas Jackson should a permanent transfer fail to be agreed, talkSPORT understands.

The Blues have informed interested clubs a £10million loan fee is required.

GettyJackson has seemingly kicked his last ball for Chelsea[/caption]

German giants Bayern Munich are one of the front-runners for Jackson’s signature but face competition from the likes of Aston Villa, Newcastle and AC Milan.

Jackson has fallen down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge following the summer signings of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, who have both enjoyed starts in Chelsea’s opening two Premier League fixtures.

Unfortunately for Jackson, Pedro and Delap’s arrival has meant he wasn’t included in the matchday squad for either fixture.

How Jackson’s mooted exit fits into Chelsea’s transfer plans

It has left the Senegal international facing an uncertain future at the club just two years after he joined for £32m from Villarreal.

Further muddying the waters of Jackson’s fate is the Blues’ continued pursuit of Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho and RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons.

talkSPORT understands Chelsea are still in conversation with Garnacho, with the belief a deal can be struck before the September 1 deadline.

Chelsea have tested the waters with a number of bids for Garnacho, who has already agreed terms with the club, although all have been rejected to date as the Red Devils hold out for £50m.

As for Simons, the Blues are yet to land a club-to-club agreement for the Dutch flyer.

However, the Bundesliga outfit are locked in talks with Chelsea outcast Christopher Nkunku, which could pave the way for Simons to move in the opposite direction.

How does Jackson fit into Bayern’s plans?

Given Bayern’s heavy interest in Jackson, Nkunku may not be the only Chelsea player heading to Germany.

The 24-year-old has notched doubles figures in both of his seasons at Stamford Bridge

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Although there may be the opportunity of a fresh start at the reigning Bundesliga champions, Jackson could face an uphill battle to break into Bayern’s starting line-up.

From two competitive games this season, Bayern boss Vincent Kompany has operated with a front four of Harry Kane, Michael Olise, Serge Gnabry and Luis Diaz, who they signed from Liverpool for £65.5m this summer.

In those fixtures, which included a German Cup victory over Stuttgart and a six-goal mauling of Leipzig, Kane netted four times while Diaz and Olise have each scored twice.

Given Jackson has spent the majority of his career as a striker, it appears unlikely he will unseat Kane from his role as Bayern’s starter up top.

However, with Bayern to compete across multiple fronts this season, additional firepower will certainly be needed.

What have Bayern said about the Jackson pursuit?

Despite the rampant rumours linking Jackson to the German giants, Bayern sporting diector Christoph Freund has largely kept his cards close to his chest when pressed on whether a move is in the offing.

Kane and Diaz appear to have already clicked for Bayern after just two games together

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“I’m not denying anything,” Freund said.

“There are a lot of names floating around. The transfer window is open until next Monday, and anything can still happen before then.”

Should Jackson’s departure eventuate, it means his last contribution was a 30-minute cameo in Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Fluminense in the Club World Cup semi-final.

During that game, Jackson was torn into by Blues teammate Cole Palmer after he failed to square the ball to the superstar, who would have had a tap-in.

That wasn’t the only low-light of Jackson’s time at the Club World Cup, as he was sent off after just four minutes of action against Flamengo following a shocking challenge on Ayrton Lucas.

Visit talkSPORT BET for all the latest transfer betting odds during the January window

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West Ham add Tottenham Hotspur star to list of midfield targets

Jack Cunningham — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 14:51:25 +0000

West Ham United have added Yves Bissouma to their list of midfield targets, talkSPORT understands.

With a week to go in the transfer window, the Irons are looking to strengthen the central midfield area of the pitch, and they think the Tottenham Hotspur man could be the one.

Bissouma could depart Tottenham before the end of the transfer window

CameraSport via Getty

Spurs are open to offers for the Malian international as well.

Bissouma joined Tottenham in the summer of 2022 for an initial £25million, with an additional £10m in add-ons.

The midfielder played a key role in Spurs’ Europa League win last year under Ange Postecoglou, but with the Australian gone, his future in north London doesn’t look so clear.

What is happening with Bissouma?

Bissouma has seen himself go from starter in a European final to not even in the matchday squad in the space of a few months.

New Spurs manager Thomas Frank removed the former Brighton midfielder from the UEFA Super Cup squad after turning up to training late on numerous occasions.

Speaking about the incident, Frank said: “Bissouma has not travelled with the group for disciplinary reasons.

“He’s been late several times and now this time was just one too many.

“With everything you need to give your players a lot of love and there needs to be demands and consequences.”

He hasn’t been part of the first two matchday squads in the Premier League either.

Frank provided no reason for his absence against Burnley, while he simply stated that Bissouma wouldn’t play against Manchester City.

Frank quickly laid down the law for Bissouma

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Tottenham do have plenty of central midfielders as well with all of the others being involved so far.

Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray started against Burnley before Rodrigo Bentancur and Joao Palhinha came in for the trip to the Etihad.

The one constant was Pape Mate Sarr, so it’s no surprise that Spurs are open to offers, though, it remains to be seen if West Ham launch a bid or try to get the player on loan.

What about West Ham?

The Hammers have endured a horrible start to the new campaign, losing both games and conceding eight goals.

talkSPORT understands that Graham Potter remains safe for now despite just five wins since he replaced Julen Lopetegui.

However, the board are monitoring the situation closely.

But the transfer window has been a frustrating one for everyone connected with West Ham.

Mohammed Kudus has left to join Spurs, while Mads Hermansen and El Hadji Malick Diouf are the only players who have arrived for fees.

Callum Wilson and Kyle Walker-Peters have also joined, but they were free transfers.

Central midfield is a position that needs reinforcements, with Edson Alvarez joining Fenerbahce on loan and Guido Rodriguez expected to leave as well.

But Bissouma isn’t the only midfield target with Southampton’s Mateus Fernandes on the list as well.

However, time is running out for the Irons to give their manager the tools he needs to be a success.

WWE star rattles Newcastle United fans over Alexander Isak transfer saga

Jack Cunningham — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 10:36:20 +0000

Liverpool fan and WWE star JD McDonagh annoyed Newcastle United fans on Tyneside on Sunday night with an Alexander Isak shirt.

The Irishman was taking part in WWE‘s Newcastle event, and after knocking his opponent to the ground, he turned and unveiled his top.

McDonagh wasn’t a popular man on Tyneside

@jd_mcdonagh

There were initial boos when everyone could see that it was a Liverpool shirt.

McDonagh motioned for the crowd to be patient as he turned to reveal that he had Isak‘s name and the No.9 shirt on the back.

The abuse from the crowd then ramped up a notch, while the referee in the background had to restrain his opponent from getting to McDonagh, who twirled to show off his outfit.

He then cupped his ear to the spectators in the Utilita Arena just off the banks of the River Tyne.

It would be fair to say it wasn’t a very popular decision from McDonagh.

Newcastle take on Liverpool this evening in the Premier League, live on talkSPORT, and the game is expected to be fiery.

This is due to the ongoing Isak saga and Liverpool, which was why the people of Newcastle were so annoyed at this gimmick from McDonagh.

Why did everyone hate McDonagh’s shirt so much?

Newcastle’s star striker Isak is wanted by Liverpool, and talkSPORT understands the forward wants to move to Anfield.

However, the Magpies insist the Swedish international isn’t for sale and have rejected Liverpool’s only offer of £110million.

The Reds have no intention of bidding again unless the Toon show some willingness to accept an offer.

The Isak shirt didn’t go down well

@jd_mcdonagh

McDonagh was loving it

@jd_mcdonagh

This has left Newcastle manager Eddie Howe in an awkward situation because Isak has taken things to another level.

The striker hasn’t played a minute of pre-season after not going on tour with the rest of his teammates.

He then went to Spain to train on his own while the Toon squad were in Asia.

And since their return, Isak has been training away from the main group.

The former Real Sociedad forward took no part in Newcastle’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa on the opening weekend and won’t be involved against Liverpool.

After being named in the PFA Team of the Year for last season, Isak elected not to attend the event and released the following statement on Instagram.

Isak has tried everything in his power to move away from St James’ Park

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“I’m proud to be recognised by my fellow professionals with a place in the PFA Premier League Team of the Season for 2024/25.

“First and foremost I want to thank my teammates and everyone at Newcastle United who has supported me along the way.

“I’m not at the ceremony tonight. With everything going on, it didn’t feel right to be there.

“I’ve kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken. That silence has allowed people to push their own version of events, even though they know it doesn’t reflect what was really said and agreed behind closed doors.

“The reality is that promises were made and the club has known my position for a long time. To now act as if these issues are only emerging is misleading.

“When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can’t continue. That’s where things are for me right now – and why change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself.”

Howe has been left in a tough situation without a first-team striker

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In response, Newcastle issued their own statement in which they denied Isak had been promised anything.

But as the close of the transfer window approaches, time is running out for Isak and Liverpool.

If the Reds want the forward, they have to come to the table with an improved offer, with the Magpies looking for a £150m, which would be a Premier League transfer record.

If no offer is forthcoming, Isak will remain a Toon player at least until January and then it is up to him if he will reintegrate or continue to not play.

Therefore, any act around Isak from a Liverpool fan on Tyneside was always going to go down badly.

Renato Sanches makes shock loan away from Paris Saint-Germain to join ex-Man United and Liverpool players

Joe Brophy — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 17:29:19 +0000

Renato Sanches has fittingly linked up with two forgotten Premier League wonderkids as he joins the seventh club of his career.

The Portuguese has completed a loan transfer to Panathinaikos in Greece from Paris Saint-Germain six days after his 28th birthday.

It’s easy to forget that Sanches has only just turned 28

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Sanches returned to PSG this summer after spending last season at Benfica, the club he came through the ranks at as a teen.

His temporary second stint at Benfica was extended to cover the Club World Cup, with Sanches scoring one goal in three appearances.

However, injury ruled him out of appearing in their 4-1 defeat against eventual champions Chelsea in the last 16.

In doing so, it spared Sanches from revisiting his most memorable moment in English football, which came at Stamford Bridge in 2017.

Benfica decided not to activate his purchase option, and Sanches has now joined Panathinaikos with no future at his parent club either.

The midfielder has reunited with manager Rui Vitoria, who promoted him from Benfica’s B to the senior side as an 18-year-old.

The Portugal international quickly earned his initial wonderkid tag under Vitoria, which was cemented by his involvement in Euro 2016.

Sanches claimed the Golden Boy award as part of Cristiano Ronaldo‘s team that won Euro 2016, and earned a move to Bayern Munich.

A poor run of form left him out of favour at the club, and it was considered a massive coup when Swansea landed him on loan.

Then-Swans manager Paul Clement used his ties with former Bayern boss Carlo Ancelotti to strike an agreement for Sanches to continue his development in Wales when the club were in England’s top-flight.

Benfica decided against keeping their former starlet

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View Tweet: https://t.co/Y1lENm2lS3

What happened to Renato Sanches?

His Premier League loan was defined by one infamous moment when he passed the ball to an advertising board against Chelsea.

Sanches revitalised his career with Lille in France, proving an integral part of the team that beat PSG to claim the Ligue 1 title in 2021.

He made the move to Paris the following year, but similar issues with fitness and form re-emerged in his sole season as a starter.

Injuries limited Sanches to 12 appearances on loan at Roma in the 2023/24 campaign, with one of those seeing him substituted by Jose Mourinho just 18 minutes after bringing him on.

A return to his boyhood club followed last year, where he ranked as both Benfica’s and Liga Portugal’s highest-paid player.

His time at Swansea was a disaster

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He failed to find his feet at PSG

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Who does Renato Sanches now play for?

His high wages meant it was always unlikely his loan would be made permanent, and he was sent back to PSG after making 21 appearances.

Sanches, whose contract runs until 2027, was not reintegrated into Luis Enrique’s squad this summer.

The 32-cap international will now try his luck in the Greek Super League as the eighth signing of the Shamrock.

Panathinaikos already boast a slew of former Premier League wonderkids, with ex-Liverpool starlet Pedro Chirivella on their books.

Panathinaikos have signed Chirivella and Pellistri in the past year

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View Tweet: https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAOFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

Last year, Facundo Pellistri ended his four-year spell at Manchester United to make the move to the Athens Olympic Stadium.

Panathinaikos finished second in the Greek Super League last season and were knocked out of the Conference League in the last-16.

The club still have the opportunity to play Europa League football this term, should they come through the second-leg of their playoff with Turkish team, Samsunspor, having won the initial meeting 2-1.

Yoane Wissa transfer saga takes fresh twist in shock Brentford team news

Jack Cunningham — Sat, 23 Aug 2025 12:49:54 +0000

Wantaway striker Yoane Wissa will not play for Brentford today against Aston Villa.

The striker has not been named in the Bees squad for the Premier League fixture at the Gtech Community Stadium.

Wissa has returned to training, but he isn’t going to be involved this afternoon

Wissa surprised fans by returning to training earlier this week, despite recently removing all mentions of Brentford and pictures of him in club kit from his Instagram page.

He had previously been on strike and refused to train with his teammates as he looks to force a move to Newcastle United.

The Magpies are still looking to get that deal done, but they saw their third offer of £35million, plus a further £5m in add-ons, rejected.

They are now contemplating another bid with time running out in the transfer window, but the Bees are yet to indicate a price they would accept.

The Magpies have seen two previous offers also rejected as the Bees look to keep a hold of the DR Congo international.

Wissa has turned down offers to move to Saudi Arabia this summer and really wants to join Newcastle.

Eddie Howe’s side are looking to replace Callum Wilson, and they see Wissa as that man.

He scored 19 goals last year for Brentford, which explains why the club are so keen to keep him.

Andrews wants to keep Wissa, but the striker doesn’t want to play

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Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Villa, Andrews had suggested that Wissa could play.

He said: “He’s been training with the team.

“In terms of being involved this weekend I’ll make a decision on the squad on Saturday. He’s been part of the group this week.”

And on his future, he said: He’s a Brentford player right now. My stance around Yoane all along is that I don’t want him to leave.

“I don’t want to lose a player of that quality and that hasn’t really changed throughout the whole episode. So hopefully he is here in the next 10 or 12 days. That is what I would like.”

But ahead of the game, Andrews said: “It’s not right to involve him in the squad. The team is the focus and I felt that was the right thing to do”

What happen next?

Wissa wants to leave Brentford, Newcastle wants to sign him, but the fee is proving to be a problem.

talkSPORT understands that the striker had a gentleman’s agreement with Brentford to leave this summer.

However, with Bryan Mbeumo gone, the west Londoners want a replacement for Wissa signed.

They have brought in Dango Ouattara for £42.5million, but he is seen as Mbeumo’s replacement.

It remains to be seen if Newcastle return for Wissa.

Their star striker Alexander Isak is refusing to play as he wants to join Liverpool.

But as a result, Newcastle need a forward.

talkSPORT understands Wolves aren’t willing to sell Jorgen Strand Larsen, while Nicolas Jackson is still a target.

Manchester United accelerate talks with top goalkeeper target and what it means for Andre Onana’s future

Alex Conrad — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 14:42:41 +0000

Andre Onana is expected to stay at Manchester United even if they sign Senne Lammens, talkSPORT understands.

talkSPORT first reported on July 18 that United were seriously interested in Royal Antwerp star Lammens and talks have intensified in recent days.

Onana is set to have even more competition for United’s starting role

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The Belgian is likely to cost around £17m and will be brought in to compete with Onana for United’s number one jersey.

Sources in Belgium say personal terms between Lammens and United have already been agreed.

A deal for Lammens has accelerated following a poor display from incumbent Red Devils back-up gloveman Altay Bayindir against Arsenal last Sunday.

The Turkish international failed to deal with a corner from Declan Rice as his inability to divert the set-piece resulted in Riccardo Calafiori being gifted a header right in front of goal.

Why didn’t Onana play against Arsenal?

Onana was left out of the matchday squad entirely despite overcoming a hamstring issue he sustained early in pre-season.

Red Devils boss Amorim confirmed he had Onana at his disposal had he wished to play him, but he opted to reward Bayindir and third choice goalkeeper Tom Heaton for their pre-season efforts.

“We try to choose the best players for each game, so next week is a different life,” Amorim said prior to the 1-0 loss to Arsenal.

“This week, we chose these players. No (he is not injured), he’s recovered, but the other guys did so well during pre-season, so I need to balance that.”

Who is Senne Lammens?

Although Onana may enjoy an instant return to the starting lineup for United on Sunday against Fulham, the potential arrival of Lammens would add further competition to what is already a respectable goalkeeping unit at Old Trafford.

Lammens has kept 12 clean sheets in 60 senior appearances for Antwerp since he made his debut in November 2023.

GettyPer DataMB, no goalkeeper in the world made more saves this season than Lammens[/caption]

His impressive displays between the sticks for Antwerp earned him a call-up to the Belgium squad for their Nations League play-off games against Ukraine last March, although he did not see any minutes.

Regardless, the call-up represented a strong indication he is highly regarded within the Belgian set-up as the former world No. 1 look towards the future.

Despite his young age as a goalkeeper, Lammens feels ready for the step up in quality and even believes his style ‘suits’ the Premier League.

“The first time I heard I thought, ‘Wow’,” Lammens said in an interview with Belgian publication Gazet van Antwerpen earlier this year.

“Immediately a world [renowned] team that follows you. That is special.

“Of course, I was also spoken to about it a lot and when I made a save in training, it was United this, United that [from colleagues]… It’s only positive.

GettyAmorim looks poised to shake up his goalkeeping unit[/caption]

“Especially because it’s the best competition in the world and my profile, my stature and way of playing, is similar to English football.

“You have to physically hold your own there and that suits me.”

Nicolas Jackson becomes top priority for new Premier League club amid Newcastle interest

Jack Cunningham — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 20:44:21 +0000

Aston Villa have made Chelsea outcast Nicolas Jackson their priority signing for the remainder of the transfer window, talkSPORT understands.

Unai Emery worked with the Senegalese forward at Villarreal, and he is keen to be reunited with the striker.

Jackson isn’t part of the first-team plans at Chelsea this year

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Villa’s change in priorities follows fellow Premier League side Newcastle United having a look at the striker.

Newcastle aren’t the only side to register an interest in the striker, with AC Milan also having a look, and despite Villa making him a top target, the Toon and Milan haven’t gone anywhere, while Bayern Munich can’t be discounted.

The Magpies are struggling to get a deal for Yoane Wissa concluded after seeing a £40million bid rejected by Brentford, and the player has returned to first-team training.

Chelsea currently value Jackson at around £80million, but any club looking to sign the forward will be hoping for a fee closer to £60m.

But the Blues are expected to use the fees of other players this summer as a guide, meaning there might be little wiggle room.

Villa are in a tight spot with PSR, so a hefty fee could pose a problem.

Instead, they are looking at various solutions.

One of those includes a loan with obligation to buy, which the London giants are reluctant to sanction due to the fact they consider Villa rivals for the Champions League places this year.

And if they were to allow Jackson to leave on loan, Chelsea would want a £10million fee.

Chelsea see Morgan Rogers as a dream target, though Villa have deemed him untouchable this summer.

The Blues are still trying to get a deal for Xavi Simons done, but talkSPORT understands they are struggling to agree a fee with RB Leipzig.

Meanwhile, Jackson accepts his time at Stamford Bridge is over and wants a move.

Despite heavy criticism from many, Jackson’s direct involvement in goals last season was good

Is this the end for Jackson?

Jackson’s time at Chelsea is all but over, but he has a very strong chance of remaining in the Premier League.

The striker didn’t play either of the Blues’ two pre-season games, while he was nowhere to be seen during the 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace on the opening weekend.

Enzo Maresca has added Liam Delap and Joao Pedro to his forward line this summer, seeing Jackson and Christopher Nkunku get frozen out.

Ahead of the Blues’ game against West Ham live on talkSPORT on Friday night, Maresca confirmed that Jackson was fit but wouldn’t play.

He said: “He is available, but he’s not going to be part of the squad because, as we already said, we have two strikers, we have two players in that position and also we know that something can happen before the transfer window closes.”

He was then asked if a transfer was close.

Maresca has basically confirmed that Jackson has played his final game for Chelsea

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“No idea, to be honest. No idea.

“You know already from last season that I prefer to be focused on training sessions, prepare the game and these kind of things. I don’t know.”

But Scott Minto believes he would be a good addition.

Speaking on The Transfer Insiders, he said “I like Nicolas Jackson.

“He’s strong. He’s quick. He can run the channels, and he can have defenders hanging off him as well by bringing the ball down and playing it inside.

“The relationship [he had] with Cole Palmer was a very good one, so I like him. He’s still raw.

“He runs offside too much and his composure in front of goal [isn’t great], but his numbers are still not bad.

“In terms of Aston Villa, I think it would be great for Aston Villa.”

The 24-year-old joined Chelsea in the summer of 2023 from Villarreal in a deal worth £32m.

In his time leading the line at Stamford Bridge, he has scored ten or more Premier League goals in each season.

The criticism levelled at him is that he misses too many chances, while he’s also struggled with his discipline in recent months having been sent off during a defeat to then Champions League chasing rivals Newcastle.

Jackson was also red carded during Chelsea’s defeat to Flamengo in the Club World Cup in June.

However, time is running out in the transfer window, so it remains to be seen if anyone gets a deal for Jackson wrapped up.

Oliver Glasner explains why Eberechi Eze is out of Crystal Palace’s Conference League squad as he nears Arsenal move

Joe Brophy — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 18:47:00 +0000

Eberechi Eze will not make his European debut on Thursday night with Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner saying the player felt unwell.

The England star was set to start his farewell match for Crystal Palace in the Conference League ahead of a £60million move to Arsenal, but that won’t happen now with Eze not included in the matchday squad.

Eze had been confirmed to be starting for Palace on Thursday night – but he wasn’t even included in the squad

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Palace did not arrive at Selhurst Park to face Norwegian side Fredrikstad with the rest of his teammates, meaning his final game for the Eagles as is highly likely to be the 0-0 draw with Chelsea last weekend.

When asked about why Eze was absent, Glasner said: Obviously I expected that he would start today for us but he called me this morning and said that he doesn’t feel well to play in the evening.

“Of course I have to accept it and everything else you’ll have to ask the chairman.”

Glasner added: “I have to accept it. If a player tells me he’s not ready to play then of course I had to call the player that starts instead, Justin Devenny.

“(Make sure) that he’s ready because this is my responsibility to prepare the players who play for us in the best way.

“So it was quite busy. We don’t like to change the starting XI on matchday, especially in this situation.

“It’s the first time in European football for Crystal Palace but we have to deal with it and this is what we do in the best way.”

The Gunners made a late swoop for the 27-year-old after rivals Tottenham had been closing in on securing a deal to sign him.

talkSPORT confirmed on Wednesday night that the Gunners and Palace have reached an agreement in principle for £60m, plus add-ons, for the playmaker, which is a club-record sale for the Eagles.

Boyhood Gooner Eze, who also played in the club’s academy, went back on his agreement with Spurs to return to the Emirates Stadium.

Shutterstock EditorialThe draw to Chelsea looks to be Eze’s final appearance for Palace[/caption]

Will Eze be cup-tied for Arsenal in the Champions League?

Oliver Glasner had already insisted that Eze’s emotional reaction to fans following Saturday’s 0-0 draw at Chelsea wasn’t a goodbye, but it appears it was.

Given Eze won’t now be playing in Europe, there is no chance of him being cup-tied.

But even if he had played, UEFA regulations have clearly outlined the stipulations regarding players representing multiple clubs in a single season.

Eze playing wouldn’t have affected his ability to represent Arsenal in the Champions League anyway.

This is because qualifying or play-off rounds don’t prevent players from turning out for a different team in the league phase of any of UEFA’s top three competitions.

Eze has never played in Europe before

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As Crystal Palace’s clash with Fredrikstad is a play-off, and Arsenal are already safely into the league phase of the Champions League, Eze would have been allowed to play in both.

If Eze was to play in the Conference League proper, then the Gunners would have had to have waited until the knockout rounds to register him.

I played for USMNT at World Cup before joining rock band to open for Hootie & the Blowfish

Joe Brophy — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 16:28:42 +0000

Alexi Lalas has claimed that Christian Pulisic involving his father in a row between USMNT stars past and present isn’t very rock-and-roll.

And the 96-cap US defender should know all about that, having opened for Hootie & The Blowfish during a European tour in 1998.

Alexi Lalas has been embroiled in a war of words with current US stars ahead of next summer’s World Cup

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Now an analyst, Lalas has banded together with former USMNT stars to escalate a growing feud with Mauricio Pochettino’s current team.

Pulisic has been at the centre of controversy this year, first insisting there was an agenda against American players in European soccer.

The former Chelsea star then made the controversial decision to avoid playing at the 2025 Gold Cup to prioritize his rest and recovery.

Pulisic has remained steadfast in his choice despite the criticism from ex-USMNT stars, with his father, Mark, also coming to his aid in the latest episodes of the PULISIC docuseries.

“Don’t bring your dad to a fight,” Lalas wrote in a column for FOX Sports last week. “I get that Mark Pulisic, like other dads out there, has been involved directly in bringing up, in this case, Christian.

“I get that he’s a former coach. But who brings their dad to a fight? If you’re angry at me or Landon [Donovan] or anybody else who is being critical of you, that’s fine.

“You have a platform, you have a microphone – some would say bigger than anybody else out there – to get that off your chest, but you don’t need to bring your dad.

“Never once has it even occurred to have my father defend me from the slings and arrows that are inevitable, but well done.

“You got me to watch, and you got exactly what you wanted.”

Lalas also staunchly hit back at accusations from Pulisic and Tim Weah that USMNT legends look to make headlines for attention.

Lalas started all four matches for the USMNT on home soil

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“First and foremost, if you’re going to accuse people of doing things for clicks and for attention or to watch a show, well played,” Lalas added.

“That’s exactly what you just did, and it’s exactly what happened… We are evil? That’s a whole other level. I don’t feel evil.

“I don’t think that I am, and I don’t think that any of the other guys that you may have been referring to are evil in our criticism. But if they were, I sure as hell wouldn’t respect them.”

Lalas’ latest comments came after he had urged Pulisic and Co. to maintain their focus on the pitch over public feuds.

“For a team that has produced so much angst and, you know, relative worry and concern and – even at times anger and disappointment – for what they have done, the decisions that they’ve made, what has happened on and off the field?” Lalas said on his State of the Union podcast.

“You should be doing anything and everything to look good, to get into the good graces of an American public that is dying to love you, is dying to like you, and is dying to support you.”

His performances earned him a move to Serie A in Italy

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Lalas scored against AC Milan and rivals Inter during his tenure at Padova

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Alexi Lalas at the 1994 World Cup

Lalas has experience in that area, having been thrust into the spotlight for the 1994 World Cup on US soil.

The 55-year-old had never played a professional game in his life before he was playing in front of crowds of 73-94,000 for USMNT.

The former Arsenal trialist played every minute of his country’s home campaign until their round-of-16 exit following a 1-0 defeat to Brazil.

He went on to sign with Italian club Padova after the World Cup, before becoming one of the first stars in the newly set-up MLS.

Lalas joined a band during his teenage years at Rutgers University

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Lalas opened for Hootie & the Blowfish

After being named in the 1998 MLS All-Star team, Lalas’s band, ‘The Gypsies’, opened for Hootie & the Blowfish on their European tour.

“The Gypsies was a band I was in during college, when I eventually started really recording and touring, I simply went under my own name with the band, it was just easier,” he told Beats & Rhymes FC in 2012.

“We had a blast on the Hootie tour, the guys treated us great, and it was a challenge each night to go out and win over a crowd that wasn’t really there to see you.

“Music was never a hobby for me – I took it as seriously as my soccer. While my success in soccer gave me opportunities in music, I knew that I would have to prove that it wasn’t a vanity endeavour or whim.

The former LA Galaxy president (left) played a key role in David Beckham’s transformative arrival

“The reality is that the public is rightfully sceptical about athletes doing music, but I never let that stop me.

“I’ve released four albums through the years, you can find much of my stuff under ‘Alexi Lalas’ online.

“Nowadays I have a studio at my home and write for myself and others.

“Unlike soccer, music is something I can do for the rest of my life…and I intend to.”

Jose Mourinho’s move for £35m Premier League star in jeopardy as player doesn’t board flight

Alex Conrad — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 18:08:05 +0000

Edson Alvarez’s move to Fenerbahce is in major doubt, talkSPORT understands.

The West Ham midfielder had booked a private jet to fly to Istanbul on Tuesday to complete his switch.

GettyAlvarez’s West Ham exit has been thrown into doubt after he returned to training[/caption]

However, Alvarez never boarded the flight and has now returned to Hammers training.

It leaves his transfer to Jose Mourinho’s side in jeopardy, with Porto and Borussia Dortmund joining the race for the Mexico international.

Alvarez was an unused substitute during the Hammers’ 3-0 defeat against Sunderland on Saturday.

Alvarez, who joined the Hammers in 2023 from Ajax for £35million, has 73 appearances under his belt for the club across two seasons.

Meanwhile, Fenerbahce are looking to secure a spot in the league phase of this season’s Champions League.

The Turkish side booked their spot in the play-off round thanks to a 6-4 aggregate victory over Feyenoord, who are managed by Dutch icon Robin van Persie, in the third qualifying round.

Mourinho had seen his side slip to a 2-1 defeat in the first leg but rebounded in impressive fashion with a 5-2 win at home in the second leg.

They will face Portuguese heavyweights Benfica in the play-off round, with the winner progressing to the Champions League proper.

As for the loser, they will drop into the league phase for the Europa League.

When was Fenerbahce last in the Champions League?

Should Fenerbahce get past Benfica, it would mark their first appearance in the Champions League proper since the 2008/09 campaign.

In previous years, the club was often knocked out in the third qualifying round or the play-offs.

But Mourinho, a two-time Champions League winner, is hoping to secure his side a return to Europe’s elite club competition after nearly two decades away.

Anadolu via GettyMourinho is 180 minutes from restoring Fenerbahce to the Champions League[/caption]

The legendary manager had hoped the signing of Alvarez could go a long way towards doing just that.

Alvarez’s arrival would have been the latest in what has been a busy summer for the Turkish giants.

Sofyan Amrabat has joined from Fiorentina while tough-tackling centre-back Milan Skriniar arrived from Paris Saint-Germain.

Former Wolves captain Nelson Semedo was another who moved, as he linked up on a free transfer following the expiry of his contract with the Black Country side.

Fenerbahce also snapped up enigmatic striker Jhon Duran on loan from Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr.

However, the Colombian hasn’t quite settled into life under Mourinho.

Duran has one goal from three appearances for Fenerbahce

AFP

What happened between Duran and Mourinho?

Murmurs of a rift between Duran and Mourinho emerged after the Portuguese boss suggested the striker failed to attend pre-season training in Portugal.

But Fenerbahce’s head of communications was quick to shut down any such talk

“The alleged statements attributed to our head coach Jose Mourinho in the foreign press regarding our player Jhon Duran are entirely false,” Alper Yemeniciler said.

“Our coach has not made any statements on this matter. Our player arrived in Portugal this [Wednesday] evening to join our team’s Algarve training camp.”

The first leg of Fenerbahce’s Champions League play-off against Benfica takes place on Wednesday with kickoff scheduled for 8pm.

I was part of Pep Guardiola’s first-ever title win but ended up playing 5-a-side in Stockport

Joe Brophy — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 17:21:15 +0000

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola continues to show a ruthless edge in the transfer market in his pursuit of winning titles.

The Spaniard has waved goodbye to icons Kevin De Bruyne and Kyle Walker, having passed the €2billion spent mark on signings in history.

Guardiola has won 12 league titles as a manager

Reuters

Jack Grealish and James McAtee have been shown the Etihad exit, but the door has been firmly closed on Savinho joining Tottenham.

Guardiola’s mentality when it comes to chopping and changing his squad dates back to his first steps in management at Barcelona.

Gai Assulin came through the ranks under the City boss while at Barca, even earning the nickname the ‘Israeli Messi’.

Former Liverpool star Thiago Alcantara even described Assulin as ‘the most talented player I’ve ever seen in La Masia’.

Speaking to The Guardian in 2021, Assulin admitted: “They like to compare in football. It is something they do all the time, and for me it is a big compliment, but [Lionel] Messi is the greatest footballer in history.

“Sometimes it is not good if you take it in the wrong way, as the expectation is for you to go on to the pitch and do the same as Messi all the time.

“Whichever club I went to, they saw I was compared with Messi, so they thought I was going to be Messi and score 50 goals a year, so that comparison at the time was not as positive.”

Assulin had the world at his feet after scoring 10 goals for Barca B in the 2007–08 season to help Guardiola win his first title as a manager.

He told Sky Sports in 2018: “It was definitely the best time of my career.

“It was not just the goals, I really enjoyed playing under such a great person.

Assulin came through the fabled Barcelona academy

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“He was very close to all of the players. I think that is one of the reasons why we gave everything for him.

“Everyone enjoyed the style of play. He gave us a lot of freedom.”

When Guardiola made the step-up to take the senior Barcelona job, Assulin was among the starlets most heavily linked with following.

However, the winger’s first-team minutes amounted to just 56 minutes of a Copa del Rey tie against Cultural Leonesa in 2009.

Assulin, who had accrued his solo cap for Israel the year before, had a reported difficult relationship with Barcelona B boss, Luis Enrique.

He signed for Manchester City on a free transfer in 2010 and was on the books for Sergio Aguero‘s Premier League title-winning goal.

Assulin was part of Guardiola’s all-conquering Barcelona B team

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Assulin’s career stalled after his Barcelona debut

However, Assulin was restricted to reserve matches after failing to impress Roberto Mancini and was sent on loan to Brighton.

He was released after that 3-2 win over QPR, and a journeyman career followed, mostly in the Spanish second tier.

The former Football Manager wonderkid also had spells in Israel, Kazakhstan, alongside Andrey Arshavin, Romania, and Italy.

His career seemingly ended at the age of 30 playing for Crema in Serie D, and now he plays five-a-side football in Stockport.

He struggled to shed the Lionel Messi tag and later enjoyed a journeyman career

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Life after Premier League football

I was at Man United with Marcus Rashford and Scott McTominay – now I’m a cake business star helping next generation

EFL’s oldest captain who co-owns barber shops had a unique way to influence Michael Olise

I spent nine-years at Liverpool before working for Amazon – Jeremie Frimpong is now helping keep my pro dream alive

I was Jurgen Klopp’s ‘big Liverpool talent’ – now John Terry’s my manager and I earn £400 a game

I was last Wolves star to join Man United before Matheus Cunha – now own a dog-themed B&B

I’ve played for Liverpool and Tottenham before I witnessed fire and rubber bullets in Chile and have now rebuilt my career as title winner

What does Gai Assulin do now?

Assulin, who retained a hope of finding another club four years ago, added to the Guardian: “Football is something irreplaceable.

“Everything I did in my career is obviously connected to the football I learned in Barcelona and especially coached by Pep.

“I grew up as a kid in Israel, in a small town and my dream was to play first-team football for a professional club.

“I gave everything with my dad, who pushed me the most because he really believed in me.

“I never thought in a million years I would be playing for the first team at Barcelona – that was so far from my dream.

“I only dreamed to play for a normal club, but things got better and better, so I have achieved that, so that will always stay with me.

“I was the youngest player to represent the Israel national team, which is an unbelievable achievement.

“When you can’t find a club, there are a lot of thoughts in your head, ‘What should I do? Should I stop?’ But it is not an option for me, as football is everything.”

Brentford instantly reject improved offer from Newcastle for Yoane Wissa

Connor Andrews — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 14:13:03 +0000

Newcastle have had an improved offer worth £40million for Yoane Wissa rejected, talkSPORT understands.

The Magpies’ bid included a £35m fee plus £5m in potential add-ons, but Brentford‘s valuation remains in excess of £50m.

GettyNewcastle have now made an official bid for Wissa[/caption]

Wissa is pushing to leave the Bees and believes this could be his last chance to play Champions League football, having snubbed interest from Saudi Arabia.

The 28-year-old has been training alone and recently unfollowed Brentford on social media as the club continued to block a move to St James’ Park.

Newcastle had already had one bid for Wissa rejected this summer, along with unsuccessful attempts to sign Joao Pedro and Benjamin Sesko, who joined Chelsea and Manchester United respectively.

The Congolese international was previously told he could leave for just £26m, but the club have reneged on that after losing Bryan Mbeumo to Manchester United.

Brentford recently signed Dango Ouattara from Bournemouth in a club-record £42m deal – but club sources claim he is viewed as the Mbeumo replacement.

It means another striker would need to be signed before the Bees consider a bid for Wissa.

Meanwhile, Newcastle are thought to see Wissa as a replacement for Callum Wilson, who left the club on a free transfer at the end of last season.

Therefore any deal with Brentford is unlikely to impact the future of Alexander Isak, who lashed out at Newcastle in a bombshell statement on Tuesday night.

The latest on Isak’s future

Like Wissa, Isak wants to leave and believes his employers have broken promises over his future.

The Swede didn’t turn up to the PFA Awards on August 19 despite being included in the team of the season.

Newcastle see Wissa as a replacement for Wilson, not Isak

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Posting on Instagram shortly after, he wrote: “I’m not at the ceremony tonight. With everything going on, it didn’t feel right to be there.

“The reality is that promises were made and the club has known my position for a long time. To now act as if these issues are only emerging is misleading.

Wissa is yet to make any kind of statement on his future, but he has unfollowed Brentford on social media and deleted posts that included them.

The 33-time DR Congo international initially joined the Bees from Lorient in 2021 for £8.5m, but they now face losing him for free next summer upon the expiration of his contract.

@yowissaWissa removed any Brentford mentions from his Instagram page[/caption]

Adam Wharton appears to make Crystal Palace transfer stance clear in front of Eberechi Eze

Alex Conrad — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 13:39:58 +0000

Eberechi Eze may be inching closer towards an exit from Crystal Palace, but Adam Wharton won’t be going any time soon.

Well, that’s if a small gesture on live television is to be believed.

Sky SportsWharton made sure to point out where his allegiance lies[/caption]

Sky Sports cameras were at Palace’s training ground in Beckenham and captured their players being put though their paces during a warm-up exercise.

Reporter Gary Cotterill, who was in remarkably close proximity to Eze and Wharton, was asked by the Sky Sports host to enquire with Wharton about his future.

In response, Cotterill said within earshot of the Palace duo: “I’m not going to ask Adam Wharton about his future, no.”

Cotterill’s reply prompted Eze to turn around and sport a wry smile.

As for Wharton, he pulled up his sports vest and pointed to the Palace badge in an indication he seemingly plans to remain at Selhurst Park for the foreseeable future.

Cotterill kept going, and after hinting Eze ‘wasn’t 100 per cent committed’ to Palace while the star was still within earshot, Eze turned around and told the reporter: “Give it a rest.”

Which Premier League club was linked with Wharton?

talkSPORT reported last Sunday Manchester United had cast their eye towards Wharton after they were told Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba was not for sale.

The Red Devils had taken a liking to Wharton given the 21-year-old’s impressive rise since he joined from Blackburn in January 2024.

Since his arrival, Wharton has won the FA Cup and Community Shield with Palace and been capped for England at senior level.

It’s not just United who have kept tabs on Wharton in recent months.

GettyThe 21-year-old has made 45 appearances for the Eagles across two-and-a-half years[/caption]

The Eagles rejected Bayern Munich’s advances for their prized asset last summer while Spanish giants Real Madrid had their scouts cast their eyes over the midfielder in person.

Spanish giants Real Madrid sent scouts to watch the midfielder while Palace rejected Bayern Munich’s advances for their prized asset last summer.

Although the south London side stand a strong chance of keeping Wharton, it is increasingly likely Eze’s time at the club is nearing its end.

Eberechi Eze’s future

talkSPORT understands Tottenham Hotspur is on the brink of striking an agreement with Palace for Eze.

Palace are set to net approximately £60million as part of the deal, a figure £8m lower than his release clause which expired last Friday.

Tottenham’s need for a new attacking midfielder was exarcebated after James Maddison sustained an ACL injury in a pre-season clash against Newcastle.

GettyEze could be moving to the north side of London very soon[/caption]

The injury is expected to sideline Maddison for the majority of the 2024/25 campaign.

Who could Palace sign as an Eze replacement?

As Eze inches closer towards a Selhurst Park exit, Palace have wasted little time in procuring a replacement.

talkSPORT understands the Eagles have a verbal agreement in place with Leicester City for 21-year-old talent Bilal El Khanouss.

The Moroccan ace, who has featured three times and registered two assists for the Foxes this season, will cost Palace a cool £32m.

Eberechi Eze to Tottenham edges closer with Crystal Palace on the verge of signing replacement

Connor Andrews — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 13:31:56 +0000

Crystal Palace are closing in on a £30million deal with Leicester City for Bilal El Khannouss, causing dominoes to fall elsewhere.

talkSPORT earlier reported that Palace and Tottenham were closing in on a £60m deal for Eberechi Eze, one that has been made smoother by the Eagles already lining up his replacement.

Palace are closing in on a deal for El Khannouss, freeing up Eze to join Spurs

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GettyEze could arrive for £60m after the expiration of his release clause[/caption]

Palace have a verbal agreement with Leicester City over a £32m deal for playmaker El Khannouss, with the south London side wanting a replacement lined up before letting Eze leave.

The Eagles are now deciding whether to proceed or bid for Southampton’s teenage sensation Tyler Dibling, who was subject to a £45m bid from Everton earlier this summer.

Christos Tzolis is another leading option, but Club Brugge prefer not to sell.

El Khannouss only joined the Foxes last summer for £20m from Genk, but his performances drew interest from numerous Premier League sides and German Champions League outfit Bayer Leverkusen.

Much like Eze, the Belgian-born Morocco international had a release clause in his contract, but again in similar circumstances to the Palace star, it’s also expired.

El Khannouss had a £22.5m relegation clause written into his deal, but even with the Foxes falling down to the championship, that has now expired, allowing them to agree a higher figure with Palace.

Conversely, Eze had a £68m release clause in his deal at Selhurst Park, but it expired on August 15.

Such a figure would have put the 11-time England international clear as Spurs’ all-time record signing, but a £60m deal ties him with what Everton received for Richarlison in 2022.

The next step in Eze’s rise

Eze has become a certified star since leaving Queens Park Rangers for Palace in 2020, and had the best season of his career last time out, recording 15 goals and 11 assist, helping Palace to their first major trophy of the FA Cup.

He featured in the Eagles’ Premier League opener against Chelsea at the weekend, finding the net with a superb free-kick, but it was cancelled out and the match ended 0-0.

An FA Cup winner, Eze is now stepping up to the Champions League

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The 27-year-old then appeared to say a goodbye of sorts to the travelling fans at Stamford Bridge, only for Palace manager Oliver Glasner to state that he expected him to play in Thursday’s Conference League opener.

“Eb should have scored a goal today, he had one and it was disallowed,” the Austrian coach said.

“He will come tomorrow to the Crystal Palace training ground, Tuesday off, we take Wednesday and I expect him to be back playing for us against Fredrikstad.”

El Khannouss ready to star again in the Premier League

El Khannouss has similarly played his part in Leicester’s start to the season, showing his playmaking abilities with two assists already in three games.

Last season in the top flight he recorded three goals and five assists overall and was a rare bright spark in an otherwise miserable season for the 2016 champions.

Palace have had an otherwise quiet summer, just bringing in left back Borna Sosa from Ajax for £3m.

Spurs have had a busy summer but a deal for Eze would top the lot

They’ve also so far managed to hold onto captain Marc Guehi amid interest from Liverpool, with chairman Steve Parish previously suggesting a sale was necessary to avoid the centre back leaving for free next summer.

On Spurs’ part, the Europa League champions have been anything but quiet this summer, starting by trading their trophy winning manager Ange Postecoglou for former Brentford boss Thomas Frank.

With that European win booking a return to the Champions League, Frank has been backed heavily in the window, spending over £125m.

Mohammed Kudus arrived from West Ham for £55m, while deals for Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso were made permanent, totalling £50m.

Alexander Isak to Liverpool deadline day prediction made as Newcastle make them ‘sweat’

Alex Conrad — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 10:00:54 +0000

Former Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant believes his club will eventually land Alexander Isak, but will be made to ‘sweat’ until the last minute.

The Swedish striker has made no secret of his desire to leave Newcastle this summer and was absent from the Magpies’ 0-0 draw against Aston Villa last Saturday.

The Isak transfer saga has hogged the headlines this summer

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Liverpool are the frontrunners in the Isak sweepstakes and have already had a £110million bid for the striker instantly rejected earlier in the window.

The Merseyside outfit do not plan to lodge a second bid unless Newcastle provide encouragement a deal could be struck.

But Pennant believes there is simply too much water under the bridge for Isak to successfully work his way back into the hearts of the Toon faithful.

Even in the unlikely event he does, the 42-year-old feels Newcastle would be left with a shell of the Isak that slammed home 23 league goals last term.

Jermaine Pennant’s verdict on the Isak saga

“I just can’t see them keeping him now,” Pennant said on talkSPORT’s Inside Liverpool.

“There’s been so much noise, so much toxicity around the issue. He’s unsettled at the club.

“Even if they were to keep Isak, you’re not getting the same player. It’s facts. So 70 per cent, 80 per cent Isak, you’re not getting the same player.

“He doesn’t want to be there, his heart’s not in it. You can’t force someone to be wherever or do whatever, he’s got to do it on his own.

“Now, is it worth losing potentially £140m to rebuild your squad, to keep someone who is going to give you not what he could give you before and the value may drop as well.

“I think the deal is going to be done, but it’s not going to be done while we play Newcastle. I think this is going to be a deadline day thing. This is going to be like, ‘We’re going to make you sweat, Liverpool’. But I do see him coming, for sure.”

talkSPORTPennant expects to see Isak in a Liverpool shirt by the time the window shuts[/caption]

Liverpool are in the market for a new man up front after the summer sales of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez to Bayern Munich and Al Hilal respectively for a combined sum of over £110m.

Hugo Ekitike, who joined Liverpool despite heavy interest from Newcastle, started up top and scored for the Reds in their 4-2 victory over Bournemouth to kick off their Premier League title defence.

Virgil Van Dijk’s thoughts on Liverpool’s striker situation

Despite the arrival of Ekitike, Reds skipper Virgil van Dijk believes his side still remains light in the attacking department.

Speaking exclusively to talkSPORT following Liverpool’s defeat to Crystal Palace in the Community Shield, Van Dijk said: “Well we just lost Darwin, he went to Saudi and we lost Lucho, obviously he went to Bayern.

“I think there’s always room for an attacker in order to strengthen us so let’s see what the window brings in terms of the balance of the team.”

Should Liverpool come back with a second bid for Isak, a successful pursuit would take their transfer spending this summer north of £400m.

Ekitike has started brightly since joining from Eintracht Frankfurt

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Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Florian Wirtz, Giorgi Mamardashvili are amongst those who have moved to Anfield this window.

Wirtz is the marquee arrival having joined for an eye-watering £116m from Bayer Leverkusen, making him the most expensive player in Premier League history.

As for Newcastle, boss Eddie Howe is simply keen to eventually put the Isak saga behind him once and for all no matter the outcome.

“We’re keen for a resolution because the consistent noise around the team isn’t helpful for any team,” Howe told talkSPORT’s Sam Matterface after the draw against Villa.

“We’re aware of that, we would like closure on it, but we’re not in charge of when.”

Yoane Wissa takes drastic action as Brentford block proposed Newcastle United move

Jack Cunningham — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 14:19:28 +0000

Yoane Wissa has unfollowed Brentford and removed all club photos from his Instagram account as he looks to leave the club.

Wissa’s move to Newcastle is currently being blocked by Brentford, as revealed by talkSPORT.

Wissa has publicly expressed his desire to leave south west London

getty

The 28-year-old is unhappy Brentford won’t now engage over a sale unless a £60million+ valuation is met despite informing Wissa a few weeks ago they would entertain a sale.

Wissa was also told a year ago he could leave for £26m (€30m) after committing to last season following Ivan Toney’s departure to Al-Ahli.

Brentford insist Dango Ouattara is a Bryan Mbeumo replacement and for a Wissa exit to happen, another forward must be added as well as their high valuation met.

At the age of 28, he believes this could be his final chance of playing Champions League football and has rejected advances from Saudi Arabia to try and make this move to St James’ Park happen.

What will happen to Wissa?

Newcastle find themselves in a strange striker situation with just two weeks of the transfer window to go.

On one hand, their star striker Alexander Isak is refusing to play and has informed the Toon he’ll never represent them again.

He wants to join Liverpool, who saw a £110 million bid for Isak immediately rejected and are yet to return with another offer.

And on the other hand, Wissa is doing the exact same thing as Isak to try and force a move to Newcastle.

He hasn’t featured in pre-season and has been training away from the main group.

Brentford manager Keith Andrews opened up on his relationship with Wissa in an exclusive talkSPORT interview last week.

Eddie Howe is keen to see his striker situation resolved

AFP

Isak and Wissa refusing to play with one looking to get out of Newcastle and the other desperate to play for them

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He said: “I have got a good relationship with Wiss.

“I worked really hard with him last year to try and find goals. Seven of his 19 goals last year came from set pieces.

“He owes me really, so he shouldn’t be going anywhere, to be blunt!”

But Wissa was then not selected in the matchday squad for the Bees’ 3-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest.

Newcastle have identified Wissa as Callum Wilson’s replacement after scoring 19 top-flight goals last season.

They have seen two offers rejected, but with the Bees now looking for £60m and a replacement, it remains to be seen if they move on with time running out, and the Isak saga not resolved either.

It was expected that the Ouattara deal would open the door for Wissa to join Newcastle, but things have changed over the weekend, and the striker isn’t happy.

Jadon Sancho rejects Manchester United exit as he waits for more offers

Jack Cunningham — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 12:32:50 +0000

Jadon Sancho has rejected an offer from Roma to end his Manchester United nightmare, talkSPORT understands.

The Italian giants were willing to offer the Red Devils £20million to take Sancho to the Stadio Olimpico.

GettySancho is prepared to wait to see what offers come in[/caption]

But Fabrizio Romano is reporting the former England international couldn’t find an agreement on personal terms.

The player’s agents have also informed the Italian side that Sancho won’t be joining them this summer.

And talkSPORT’s Ben Jacobs understands that Sancho is convinced different offers will arrive.

Roma are now looking at alternative options, while the Red Devils are hoping to find a suitor for Sancho, who doesn’t even have a squad number this season.

Sancho has interest from Turkey and Besiktas, but he won’t consider that until the main European transfer window closes.

The former Borussia Dortmund star had the opportunity to join Chelsea after his loan spell last year.

However, an agreement over personal terms couldn’t be found, and Chelsea opted to pay a penalty fee of £5million to not sign the winger despite agreeing a loan with obligation to buy.

Sancho is still just 25, but he is in danger of watching his career go backwards if he doesn’t leave soon, with the winger not in Ruben Amorim‘s plans.

Sancho showed flashes of what he was capable of at Chelsea, but they decided not to sign him

Rex

What next for Sancho?

Since joining Man United in the summer of 2021 from Borussia Dortmund, Sancho’s career has stagnated.

He arrived as one of the most exciting prospects in Europe after some stellar years with Dortmund in Germany, but under several managers, he failed to deliver.

His time at Old Trafford effectively came to an end after a falling out with Erik ten Hag saw him isolated from the rest of the first team.

Sancho then re-joined Dortmund on loan in Januarry 2024, but the club couldn’t afford to make it permanent.

GettySancho still has plenty of time in his career to turn things around[/caption]

His loan to Chelsea seemed like the perfect move for the forward.

But after a promising start, Enzo Maresca started to favour other players but still gave Sancho plenty of game time.

In total, Sancho played 42 games for Chelsea, scoring five goals and setting up ten.

A lot of those goal contributions were in the Europa Conference League, and he scored in the final against Real Betis, but given he started the majority of Premier League fixtures, it would be fair to have expected more.

He is now in a tricky position, and after turning down Roma, it remains to be seen who will come in for him.

Newcastle United told to make shock move for ex-Arsenal target as Alexander Isak replacement

Jack Cunningham — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 11:07:38 +0000

Newcastle United should make a late move for former Arsenal target Dusan Vlahovic.

That’s the view of European football expert Andy Brassell, who told talkSPORT that the Toon could do a lot worse than trying to sign the Juventus star.

Vlahovic has been linked with a Premier League move for a long time

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Arsenal have been long-term admirers of the Serbian international but missed out on his signature in January 2022 when he joined Juventus from Fiorentina.

The striker’s deal with the Old Lady expires next summer, and the Italian giants could be looking to cash in.

Newcastle are in desperate need of at least one striker this summer with Alexander Isak on strike and Callum Wilson having joined West Ham.

It leaves Will Osula as the club’s only first-team forward, though he didn’t start the Toon’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa on the opening day.

Instead, Anthony Gordon led the line, while Eddie Howe has spoken about the need for a striker.

And Brassell thinks Vlahovic moving to St James Park would make sense.

Speaking on the Trans European Express and when asked about Vlahovic’s time at Juventus being a failure, he said: “I agree, especially when you look at his age. I would say he’s a qualified failure because he’s had his moments.

“Obviously, he’s way too expensive, they are paying him 12 million a year, which he’s not going to get anywhere else outside Saudi.

“I would say there are a few Premier League clubs, maybe a certain one who are having striker issues at the moment in the North East of England [Newcastle], who I think it’s worth having a little go for him.

“He only has a year left on his contract. Juventus have to sell him now, they won’t be charging a lot of money for him.”

Isak is currently refusing to play for Newcastle

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Vlahovic had an okay season for Juventus

What is the striker situation at Newcastle?

Isak has been the subject of a £110 million bid from Liverpool that was rejected immediately by the Toon.

The Reds are yet to come back with another offer and don’t intend to unless given encouragement that the Magpies would accept, talkSPORT understands.

Isak played no part in Newcastle’s 0-0 draw against Aston Villa and has told the club he’ll never play for them again.

He is currently training on his own and is desperate to join Liverpool.

The Magpies are seeking two forwards in the remainder of the transfer window, allowing Isak to leave.

But they are being frustrated by Brentford in their attempts to sign Yoane Wissa.

Howe has been frustrated in his attempts to sign players this summer

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GettyWissa is also refusing to play for Brentford and wants to join Newcastle[/caption]

The Bees have quoted Newcastle a price of £60 million until Brentford sign a replacement.

Dango Ouattara has arrived from Bournemouth in a deal worth £42.5 million, but he is seen as Bryan Mbeumo’s replacement.

Talks between Newcastle and Brentford are set to resume over Wissa this week.

talkSPORT understands Nicolas Jackson is also on Newcastle’s radar, but with time running out, it is proving to be increasingly hard for the Magpies to sign a striker.

They are yet to be linked with Vlahovic, but with his contract running down, and the Toon in need of a forward, it could be one to watch.

Tottenham close in on Eberechi Eze transfer as Thomas Frank gives update

Jack Cunningham — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 17:46:34 +0000

Tottenham are closing in on a deal for Eberechi Eze, talkSPORT understands.

Spurs and Crystal Palace are negotiating a fee after Eze’s £68m release clause expired.

Eze’s future looks set to lay beyond the confines of Selhurst Park

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The England international has already agreed personal terms with Spurs, who are looking to pay closer to £60m.

Eze has also informed some England teammates he expects the move to Spurs to happen.

There is still a possibility the 27-year-old plays against Chelsea on Sunday with no agreement reached.

Palace are understood to be holding out for a fee in excess of £60m.

Spurs view the England attacker as a No.10 and their pursuit is separate to the club’s interest in Manchester City winger Savinho as a result.

A key factor in Tottenham’s pursuit proving successful thus far is that Eze wants to both play Champions League football and ideally stay in London.

Thomas Frank provides update on Eze

Speaking after his side’s 3-0 win over Burnley in their season opener, Tottenham boss Thomas Frank was coy as to whether a deal for any new signing was close.

“We are in the market,” Frank said.

“Daniel (Levy), Johan (Lange) and Vinai (Venkatesham) are working very hard.

“If we can, we’d like to improve the squad.

“But we only want players we think that can improve us.”

Frank looks set to receive a handy boost to his attacking midfield stocks

Arsenal had also been in the race for Eze, but the desire to give Ethan Nwaneri minutes at No.10 this season led to some hesitation within the club as to whether to add another central attacker.

As for Palace, the potential loss of Eze will come as a major blow given his importance to the squad.

The Eagles are also understood to have decided at the start of the summer they wanted to keep at least one of Eze or Marc Guehi.

It now appears it is the defender who will remain at Selhurst Park.

The potential addition of Eze is undoubtedly a huge coup for Tottenham and Frank given they lost James Maddison for the majority of the season to an ACL injury.

They also swung and missed on a deal for Morgan Gibbs-White.

Gibbs-White looked set to link up with Spurs this summer

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Spurs triggered the player’s release clause only to see Nottingham Forest block the move and then get Gibbs-White to sign a new deal.

Darren Ambrose’s verdict on Eze to Spurs

But they quickly changed course to Eze and it is a transfer Crystal Palace hero and Tottenham fan Darren Ambrose is excited to see unfold.

Speaking on talkSPORT’s Inside Spurs, Ambrose said: “I want Eze as a Spurs player, I really do. I don’t want him as an Arsenal player, none of us do.

“And if there’s anywhere I would like him to leave Palace, if he ever was to leave, it would only be to Spurs.

“He clearly has ambition, he clearly wants to play Champions League football.”

Ambrose added: “He is a Champions League quality player. For me, he should be starting for England.

Inside SpursAmbrose hopes to see Eze in a Tottenham shirt very soon[/caption]

The affiliation I have for Palace is second to none, I love the club. But is he going to be starting for England at the end of this season with a season at Palace in the Conference League and finishing 10th, 12th? I don’t think he will.

“If he comes to Spurs and pushes Spurs up the table, they’re going well in the Champions League and he’s the main player, he has the opportunity to be starting for England and I think that’s in his thoughts as well.”

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Eddie Howe calls for ‘closure’ on Alexander Isak saga as Anthony Gordon sends Liverpool warning

Connor Andrews — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 15:01:01 +0000

Eddie Howe has told talkSPORT that Newcastle are looking for a resolution to the ongoing Alexander Isak transfer saga.

The Swedish striker didn’t feature in the Magpies Premier League opener against Aston Villa where they drew 0-0.

Isak was unsurprisingly nowhere to be seen as Newcastle got their season underway

Howe is now asking for some sort of resolution

AFP

That’s in part because he was banished from training after refusing to attend pre-season when the club rejected a £110million offer from Liverpool for his services.

Isak has reportedly responded by telling the club he won’t play for them again, and Howe has admitted that the ongoing saga has had an impact.

“We’re keen for a resolution because the consistent noise around the team isn’t helpful for any team,” he told Sam Matterface.

“We’re aware of that, we would like closure on it, but we’re not in charge of when.”

Adding more on the story of the summer, Howe said: “We had to change the narrative around us really because everything was negative and sometimes that can consume you.

“We’ve consistently had players here that have fought really hard for the club in difficult circumstances before and we’ve always come through as a better team for it.

“This is a unique situation and a difficult situation for the players to handle but today I think they were brilliant in their response.

“Today was going to be the true judge, pre-season is always a bit forced, so it was a brilliant response. I’m disappointed we didn’t win but there were so many positives to take.”

Howe was then asked if the outcome is either Isak being replaced in the transfer market, or he’s brought back into the team.

“I don’t know the answer to be honest. I’ve got no guarantee,” he responded.

Isak was a Newcastle icon last season, but he’s now become a massive problem

Getty

“We are active in the market but I think you could see today by what happened on the pitch, Anthony Gordon looked very good as a centre forward, he had chances and induced a sending off with his pace.

“So I’d rather focus on the players we have here. I’m sure the situation off the pitch will take care of itself and we’ll find out where we are pretty soon.”

Gordon’s Liverpool warning

Gordon played as a centre forward in Isak’s absence, and seemed even more hopeful the team can move on from their off-pitch distractions.

Discussing the transfer saga with TNT Sports, he said: “It has been difficult because we’re such a tight knit group, so for that to almost…

“We’ve never had any problems publicly so that being the first thing that’s happened has tested us, but you’ve seen today we’ve still got that spirit and togetherness.

“We work on it every day and it’s never going to go away regardless of individuals, we’re a top group and our togetherness is top and it always will be.”

Gordon deputised for Isak and is sure he and his teammates can move on

Getty

Asked if it could make their group stronger, he responded with the first of two warnings to their next opponents – Liverpool.

“Yeah it can [make us more together], but like I said we’re so together anyway,” the boyhood Liverpool fan said.

“Things like this can test you and make you better in the end and I think that’s going to be the case.

“I think with everything that’s gone on I’m sure the atmosphere is going to be a bit wild [against Liverpool].

“I’m just excited to see the home fans again and get back in the stadium, it’s going to be a top game.”