Manchester United have held talks over a swap deal to sign a “generational” Premier League forward, with Jadon Sancho potentially being sent in the opposite direction, according to a report.
Sancho's future remains up in the air
Last week, it was revealed that Sancho was in discussions over a permanent move to Chelsea, having put in some improved performances towards the back end of the campaign, most notably scoring in the UEFA Conference League final.
Fabrizio Romano has since revealed the winger will not be making a move to west London, meaning the Blues had to pay Man United a £5m penalty clause. However, that does not mean he will remain at Old Trafford beyond the summer.
With Sancho’s future very much up in the air, the Red Devils are now exploring different ways to get him off the books, and secret talks have even been held over a swap deal for West Ham United winger Mohammed Kudus.
That is according to a report from United in Focus, which reveals Kudus was ready to make the move to Old Trafford, with his West Ham career coming to an end, but the deal currently remains on hold.
That is because the Ghanaian is not Ruben Amorim’s number one priority, having set out to sign Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo, who recently made it clear he wants to join United this summer, despite interest from Arsenal.
As such, while the West Ham star is expected to move on this summer, he may not join the Red Devils, with the move further complicated by the fact Graham Potter’s side are reluctant to sign Sancho.
Deal for "generational" Kudus could break the bank
Mbeumo appears to be United’s priority target, but should they switch their focus to the 24-year-old, a deal could be on the expensive side, as the forward has a £75m release clause in his contract with the Irons.
As such, it does not seem likely that Amorim’s side will sign the Ghana international this summer, with West Ham uninterested in Sancho, but he could be a fantastic signing if they do manage to facilitate a deal.
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The Accra-born attacker has been described as a “generational talent” by journalist Gary Al-Smith, and he has impressed in the Premier League in the past, picking up eight goals and nine assists in the 2023-24 campaign.
That said, Mbeumo has been far more prolific than Kudus in recent times, reaching the 20-goal mark this season, so it is clear to see why the Cameroonian is the preferred option for Man United.
Glasgow Rangers transfer business has been a major cause for concern since the summer of 2021.
Plenty of managers have come and gone during that time, but not one has been able to say they enjoyed success in the transfer market.
Giovanni van Bronckhorst spent big on the likes of Ben Davies, Rabbi Matondo, and Ridvan Yilmaz, but they have hardly set the world on fire at Ibrox.
Former Rangers boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst.
Michael Beale also had money to spend, but like his predecessor, it was wasted on flops such as Sam Lammers and Jose Cifuentes, who are now playing elsewhere.
Last summer, Robin Propper and Nedim Bajrami arrived in Glasgow under Philippe Clement, but they also failed to live up to the hype generated upon their move to Scotland.
Of course, not every signing has been poor. Nico Raskin has emerged as one of the club’s best players this season, winning the club’s Player of the Year. Todd Cantwell was solid in spells, while Hamza Igamane could generate a profit for the Light Blues following a stunning debut campaign.
Perhaps the player who could become one of the most important for the club is Mohamed Diomande, who has gone about his business without much fanfare since joining in January 2024, initially on loan.
Mohamed Diomande has been a great signing for Rangers
The Ivorian midfielder joined the Gers on a six-month loan deal in the 2024 winter window, which would become permanent that summer for a fee in the region of £4.3m.
It was a gamble, especially with the money involved, but the move turned out to be a success.
He showed glimpses of his ability during the loan spell, scoring twice in 19 games, grabbing an assist too, and it looked as though he could become a key figure in Clement’s midfield.
Able to operate either as a number ten or in a slightly deeper role, Diomande’s ability to run with the ball and glide past opponents ensures he is a success in either of these roles.
With the likes of Ianis Hagi and Tom Lawrence likely to leave this summer, a space for someone like Diomande to play higher up the pitch could be available regularly. This season, the 23-year-old has scored six and registered nine assists in all competitions for the Light Blues.
His game is well-suited to a more advanced role. When compared to his positional peers across the Europa League this season, the midfielder ranks in the top 6% for assists (0.23) and in the top 11% for successful take-ons (1.14) per 90.
He has still to reach his peak years as a player, and if Rangers can keep hold of Diomande under the new manager, he could become the new fulcrum of the team.
Whoever does take charge of the Glasgow giants on a permanent basis will be keen on making their own signings. It appears as though the 49ers Enterprises have earmarked a Brazilian midfielder as one of the first of a new era this summer.
Rangers need a new midfielder
Several names have already been linked with a move to Rangers ahead of the summer transfer window opening in a few weeks.
The 49ers will be aiming to build a side that can challenge Celtic for domestic dominance, hoping that the club will return to the summit of Scottish football once again.
According to the Scottish Sun last week, the Light Blues have earmarked Basel loanee Metinho as a top target this summer.
He is currently valued a £4m, which is a significant outlay for the club. A potential move could depend on whether the new manager can raise funds by selling some deadwood.
He will return to his parent club, Troyes, when the season finishes, but with Championship clubs showing interest, acting swiftly will be key.
With Raskin being touted for a move to England this summer, the 49ers will need to replace the Belgian international sufficiently.
Nico Raskin
If Metinho arrives in Scotland, he could fill the gap left by Raskin, which, in turn, would allow him to thrive with Diomande in the midfield.
Why Rangers must sign Metinho
Metinho came through the Fluminense academy and was one of the best prospects of his generation.
Indeed, in 2021, he was lauded by SelecaoTalk, who said: “Brazil’s best from his generation. He’s called ‘Little Pogba’.”
“He’s got everything, so complete. Very similar to Gerson who also came through the Fluminense academy.”
Moving to Europe later that year, the Brazilians struggled to make much of an impact. An 18-month loan spell at Sparta Rotterdam saw him demonstrate glimpses of his talent.
Comparing Raskin and Metinho domestically this season
Metric (per 90)
Raskin
Metinho
Tackles
2.9
3
Interceptions
0.7
1.1
Possession lost
10.1
6.2
Total duels won
6.6
4.7
Balls recovered
5.7
4.5
Accurate passes
46.7
29.3
Stats via Sofascore
It wasn’t until moving to Basel earlier this year, however, that the 22-year-old finally matured enough to perform consistently well.
Operating at the heart of the midfield, Metinho has played a solid role in the club winning their first league title since 2017.
Across ten matches, he averages three tackles and 1.1 interceptions per game domestically, while also recovering 4.5 balls per game for the Swiss side.
Furthermore, his ability to retain possession is excellent, losing the ball just 6.2 times per game. The midfielder even wins an impressive 4.7 total duels per game – a success rate of 66% – for Basel.
These statistics would not only make a solid replacement for Raskin, but also someone who could work well deployed behind Diomande at the base of the midfield.
As evidenced, the Ivorian star looks better when playing in a more advanced role. Having someone like Metinho mopping up everything behind him would certainly give Diomande plenty of freedom to attack.
Much will depend on the finances available to the new manager this summer. If the Brazilian is still available for around £4m by the time he arrives at Ibrox, it is a move which could be worth pursuing.
He could be a player who may generate a magnificent profit in the years to come for the Glasgow side.
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Newcastle United rode into the summer transfer window on the crest of a wave, having finished the 2024/25 campaign as Carabao Cup champions, also sealing their place back in the Champions League after finishing fifth in the Premier League.
All told, Eddie Howe will be a happy man after his side’s success, but the onus is now on improving across the next few months ahead of the fresh term, when expectations will be heightened.
Efforts have certainly been made at this early stage to go from strength to strength. As per The Telegraph, the Magpies have singled out England centre-back Marc Guehi and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, although the latter has reportedly chosen he wants to join Manchester United.
Mbeumo
A right-sided forward is still at the top of the agenda, and Newcastle might just have identified the perfect man for the job.
Newcastle open talks for new right winger
No, it’s not Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga, although the 23-year-old is admired by senior Newcastle officials.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Instead, the man of the moment could be West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus, with The Athletic revealing talks have been held among senior Magpies officials to ascertain the potential of a summer signing.
Kudus has an £84m release clause in his Hammers contract and is expected to leave east London this summer.
After a difficult campaign, however, it’s thought Graham Potter’s side would be open to a more agreeable £65m fee.
Why Newcastle should sign Kudus
Kudus only scored five times in the Premier League last season, also assisting three goals, but he hit four goal contributions across his final eight appearances, and presents one of the most menacing profiles out there.
West Ham's Mohammed Kudus
Though Elanga, Newcastle’s other top wide target, chalked up six goals and 11 assists across the league campaign, Kudus may yet hit a new level of prolific progress, which would see him soar away from the Tricky Trees star’s capacity.
Despite his struggles, the Ghana international has still maintained his ball-carrying quality across the past year, with Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku the only man to produce a greater regularity of successful dribbles.
This metric is further underscored by data-driven site FBref, who recorded that Kudus ranked among the top 6% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues last season for pass completion, and the top 3% for successful take-ons per 90.
And you’d think that Howe could restore Kudus’ finest level. When comparing his 2023/24 campaign, under David Moyes’ wing, against Elanga’s at Forest over the past year, it becomes a little clearer that Kudus’ ceiling stretches higher.
Matches (starts)
33 (27)
38 (31)
Goals
8
6
Assists
6
11
Shots (on target)*
2.0 (0.5)
1.2 (0.6)
Pass completion
84%
78%
Big chances created
5
9
Key passes*
0.8
1.3
Dribbles*
3.8
0.7
Ball recoveries*
6.4
2.3
Tackles*
2.0
0.5
Duels won*
8.5
3.0
Given that Forest would be looking to bank in excess of £50m for the sale of Elanga, it might be more worthwhile to invest in a star such as Kudus, who, when at his rip-roaring best, has been regarded as a “generational talent” by those such as journalist Gary Al-Smith.
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Newcastle are looking to make sweeping changes as they step back into the Champions League.
If Mikel Arteta could pick any striker in world football to bring to Arsenal this summer then it’s likely Alexander Isak would be at the top of their list.
The Gunners looked at adding the impressive Swede to their ranks before he actually signed for Newcastle, but were reportedly put off by his asking price.
How foolish they were. Isak has become a genuine phenomenon in the following years, notably scoring as many as 27 goals in 42 games throughout the 2024/25 campaign.
Newcastle United's AlexanderIsakcelebrates scoring their first goal
In comparison, Arsenal struggled in front of goal. No player scored double figures in the league and their leading bagsman was Kai Havertz on 15.
Sadly, Isak now looks to be off the table. Liverpool are also dreaming of a move but with a reported £150m asking price and the Toon having secured Champions League football, signing the forward is now a pipe dream.
Arsenal's Isak alternatives
Much of the chatter so far this summer has revolved around two men; Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres.
Sesko has been of interest for quite some time now but the asking price of both players, as it did with Isak a few years ago, is proving problematic.
Sesko is now thought to have an asking price of between £68m to £85m. That’s according to Sky Germany who still insist that Arsenal have a ‘positive’ feeling a deal can be done.
So, how about Gyokeres? Well, according to reports from Portuguese outlet, Record, Arsenal have put a £55m offer on the table. That isn’t deemed enough by his club, Sporting CP.
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Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
As a result, the report notes that Andrea Berta and Co are set to turn their attention to another striker. That man is Ollie Watkins.
Indeed, it’s speculated that the Gunners have put their efforts to sign Gyokeres on hold and will begin drawing up plans to sign Watkins instead.
It’s stated that talks have already been held with the Aston Villa forward’s representatives.
Arsenal tried to do a deal for Watkins back in January but with Jhon Duran heading to Saudi, a move felt impossible with all bids rejected.
Why Watkins could become Arsenal's very own Isak
Isak hasn’t just been one of the most impressive centre-forwards in the Premier League, but he’s also now one of the best in Europe, notably even heralded as “the best striker in the world” by analyst Raj Chohan.
Indeed, over the last two seasons, he’s been right up there as far as goal scorers are concerned, bagging 44 in 64 matches. The only two players to better that record? Erling Haaland and Mo Salah.
Premier League top scorers since 2023/24
Player
Games
Goals
1. Erling Haaland
62
49
2. Mo Salah
70
47
3. Alexander Isak
64
44
4. Cole Plamer
71
37
5. Ollie Watkins
75
35
6. Chris Wood
67
34
7. Yoanne Wissa
69
31
8. Jean-Philippe Mateta
72
30
Data via StatsMuse.
As we can see, the aforementioned Watkins is also right up there. Now said to boast an asking price of £40m, he could be around £100m cheaper than Isak which is rather incredible considering there isn’t much to separate the two players in the last two years. Indeed, only a few years ago, one prominent analyst on social media suggested that he was “a €100m player” if he could score goals regularly in the Premier League.
While he may not be as prolific as he was in 2023/24, if we add assists to the mix as well, the Villa star – who won the Premier League’s Playmaker Award in 2023/24 for creating the most goals – is a better all-around package.
In the last two seasons, Isak has registered just eight assists but Watkins has as many as 21. Compared to the Premier League’s best in that time, only Salah has more.
Top assist makers in the Premier League since 2023/24
Player
Assist tally
Games
1. Mo Salah
28
70
2. Ollie Watkins
21
75
3. Anthony Elanga
20
74
4. Bukayo Saka
19
60
5. Cole Palmer
19
71
6. Jacob Murphy
19
56
7. Son Heung-min
19
65
8. Bruno Fernandes
18
71
Data via StatsMuse.
So, there is a clear difference in their chance creation, but as far as their other attributes go, they’re very alike.
Crucially, not only are they both Premier League proven, something that neither Sesko or Gyokeres can shout about, they share similar traits such as the ability to play on the shoulder of the last man and run in behind.
In Havertz and Mikel Merino, Arteta has two players who lead the line with their back to goal. They don’t have the pace of Watkins or Isak to run beyond the defence. It’s an attribute they have sorely missed in the last few seasons.
They’re also rather proficient carriers of the ball. Over the last two seasons, Newcastle’s star man has registered 2.71 progressive carries per 90 minutes, actually beating Watkins’ efforts of 1.81 per 90.
They combine that with raw pace, too. During Euro 2024, Watkins was clocked at a top speed of 32.4 km/h while Isak has previously been clocked at 33.6 km/h. In comparison, Merino was the third-slowest player in the Premier League at one point during 2024/25, hitting a top speed of just 29.7 km/h.
How Arsenal's striker targets compare in 2024/25.
So, it’s evident Arsenal need someone who’s a bit more mobile. Isak would guarantee this but with the Swede off the table, Watkins is surely the next best thing as far as proven players in the English top-flight go.
He’s a competent ball carrier, he’s got pace and he’s more efficient in front of goal than the aforementioned Sesko. He’s also far better at creating chances. Over the last two seasons, the England international has amassed 56 goal contributions while Sesko has only managed 34.
If Arsenal want a win-now solution, Watkins is the man.
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Newcastle United’s season ended in the perfect way last weekend, despite a 1-0 defeat at home to Everton in the final game of the campaign. The Magpies secured Champions League qualification once again, after a year out of any continental competition in 2024/25.
Their final finish saw them pip Aston Villa to that last Champions League spot by finishing in fifth, helped by the fact that the Premier League gained an extra spot due to high coefficient points. They have been in the top five since the second game in April, and have clung onto the position to return to the Champions League.
Thus, it will be a big summer for Eddie Howe and his squad, as they look to shape the perfect group ready to compete amongst Europe’s elite clubs.
Newcastle’s summer targets
Already, the rumour mill has been whirring, and the transfer window has not even opened yet. Newcastle were recently linked with Liam Delap by TeamTalk, who say they held ‘showdown talks’ with the Ipswich Town star.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Now, according to CaughtOffside, the North East outfit ‘have expressed interest’ in signing Atletico Madrid right-back Nahuel Molina. They are believed to be ‘keen on securing his signature’ as they look to add to full-back depth.
However, they are not thought to be the only side trying to sign him this summer. Premier League rivals Liverpool are also keen. They’re in the market for a new right-back after Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure.
Serie A sides Inter, Juventus and Roma are also interested. Should Molina leave the Spanish capital, he could cost upwards of £29m.
Why Molina would be a good signing
At 27 years of age, you might struggle to find a better option at right-back than Molina this summer. Not only is he in the prime of his career, but the defender is hugely experienced, too. He was a World Cup winner back in 2022 with Argentina.
This season, the former Boca Juniors star has featured in 44 games for the La Liga giants. In that time, he has contributed to an impressive 17 clean sheets playing mainly as a right-back, but even slotting into centre-back as well.
He has also managed to chip in with goal contributions this term. Not only has the defender registered three assists across all competitions, but he even managed to get himself on the scoresheet away to Paris Saint-Germain in a 2-1 win in the Champions League group phase. As Neal Gardner said, he is a “stupidly good” player.
Molina would not be the only right-back Newcastle have signed from Atleti in recent seasons. In fact, they brought Kieran Trippier to the club from the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano for just £12m back in January 2022.
Now, three years on from his move to St James’ Park, the former England international is still a big part of Howe’s squad, although maybe not as much of an important player. This term, he played 25 times in the Premier League, but featured for just 1309 minutes, the equivalent of 14.5 full 90-minute games.
Kieran Trippier
With that being said, there is no denying Trippier’s importance to this Newcastle project over the past few years under Howe. In 123 appearances, he has four goals to his name and an impressive 25 assists, which included ten in the Premier League in 2023/24.
During their most recent season for Atleti, Molina and Trippier can be compared statistically via Squawka. For example, in 2024/25, Molina created 0.8 chances and won 4.4 duels per 90 minutes, compared to Trippier in 2021/22, where he created 0.7 chances and won 5.8 duels each game.
Molina and Trippier – key stats compared
Stat (per 90)
Molina (2024/25)
Trippier (2021/22)
Chances created
0.8
0.7
Forward passes
19.5
22.6
Take-ons competed
0.9
0.7
Duels won
4.4
5.8
Ball recoveries
3.8
5
Stats from Squawka
If Molina can come into Newcastle and recreate the impact Trippier has had at the club, then he will surely be a successful signing.
The 27-year-old might well have a role that is just as important to play.
For just £29m, this could be a steal for the Magpies, as they look to bring in a player who could be Howe’s next Trippier.
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Manchester City are seeking to retain their FIFA Club World Cup crown this summer as the tournament takes on a new and exciting format, with 32 teams competing to be named football’s best club side.
After much excitement and intrigue, the revamped FIFA Club World Cup has begun, with stars like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Michael Olise already taking centre stage in the United States.
Pep Guardiola’s side can become the first English team to be crowned the kings of world football on two occassions with a triumph this summer, and only the second side in history to retain the title, after Real Madrid’s three-peat between 2017 and 2019.
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The eight-time Premier League champions’ quest to reach the final, which takes place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 13, starts this week on Wednesday June 18 when they take on Wydad AC, who compete in Botola Pro, the top flight of Moroccan football.
City earned their place in this competition via their UEFA Champions League triumph against Inter back in 2023, while Wydad were crowned CAF Champions League winners in 2022 after a heroic 2-0 win against Egyptian side Al-Ahly.
Watch the FIFA Club World Cup live and on-demand here
Ahead of what should be an action-packed opening fixture for two of the four sides in Group G, here’s everything you need to know on how to watch – and who to be looking out for – when Wednesday rolls around…
Where to watch Man City vs Wydad at the Club World Cup
63 games featuring the world’s best players all in the space of a month and all in one place, for free! Sound too good to be true? It isn’t.
Indeed, FIFA revealed back in December 2024 that the extended Club World Cup will be available for free globally, with the world’s largest sports streaming platform, DAZN, showcasing every game with unique coverage which will finally settle the debate – who is the best club side in the world?
Available globally in 14 languages, DAZN is the only place to truly celebrate the groundbreaking new tournament, with easy access provided to watch the likes of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham competing on the biggest stage.
If you are already a DAZN subscriber, then the Club World Cup action is already included in your membership. For those who haven’t yet signed up, all you need is an email address to register a free account on the DAZN website, with no hidden costs or added fees. You will then be able to watch every game on the DAZN app via your TV, computer, phone or even on your games console.
Man City vs Wydad AC (Wednesday 18 June – Philadelphia – 5pm UK time, midday local time)
FIFA Club World Cup Current Champions Manchester CityFounded 2000Most Championships Real Madrid (5)
DAZN
Watch all FIFA Club World Cup games free on DAZN. The biggest clubs and the best players in the world compete in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Watch Every Game Live on DAZN Man City vs Wydad – Who to look out for
Bouncing back from a challenging campaign, City have strengthened their ranks significantly in 2025, with several new signings included in their Club World Cup squad, like Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Ait-Nouri and perhaps most excitingly of all Rayan Cherki.
All three new arrivals could make their Man City debuts this week, while we are also likely to be treated to more spectacular showings from Omar Marmoush, who has scored eight goals in 22 games since moving to the Etihad Stadium in January.
Marmoush and Cherki could form an unstoppable attack which of course already includes Norwegian superstar Erling Haaland. The 24 year-old will be looking to continue his incredible scoring rate since moving to England, becoming the fastest player to reach 100 Premier League goal involvements earlier this year, reaching the landmark with 84 goals and 16 assists in just 94 matches.
Manchester City's ErlingHaalandcelebrates scoring their first goal
As for the underdogs, Wydad are the most successful team in Moroccan football history, winning 22 top flight titles, most recently in the 2021-22 campaign, when they also won their version of the Champions League and Cup Winners’ Cup to complete a historic treble.
Based in Casablanca, they had a poor season by their own lofty standards in 2024-25, finishing third in Botola Pro, but that is not to say they cannot pose a problem to their opponents in Group G this summer.
Undoubtedly their biggest threat is Dutch winger Mohamed Rayhi, who came through PSV’s academy and has been capped at youth level by the Netherlands. Rayhi scored 13 times this season and can play on either flank, but is best cutting in from the left onto his dangerous right foot.
A familiar face to MLS fans will be attacking midfielder Cassius Mailula. The South Africa international spent a year with Toronto FC before joining Wydad last summer, scoring five times and providing seven assists in his first campaign in Morocco. He will hope to be the creative force to unlock Man City’s defence on Wednesday.
Who else is in Group G?
Manchester City will fancy themselves as favourites to top Group G, but there is certainly some stern competition from Juventus, the 36-time champions of Italy, who qualified for this competition courtesy of their four-year UEFA ranking.
With two UEFA Champions League titles to their name, Juve have suffered a slight fall from grace in recent years, failing to win a league title since 2020 and finishing fourth in Serie A this season. Led by Serbia striker Dusan Vlahovic and Turkey wonderkid Kenan Yıldız, they can restore themselves as a global footballing superpower with success at the Club World Cup.
June 18
Man City vs Wydad AC
Philadelphia – (midday/5pm)
June 18
Al Ain vs Juventus
Washington – (9pm/2am June 19)
June 22
Juventus vs Wydad AC
Philadelphia – (midday/5pm)
June 22
Man City vs Al Ain
Atlanta – (9pm/2am June 23)
June 26
Wydad AC vs Al Ain
Washington – (3pm/8pm)
June 26
Juventus vs Man City
Orlando – (3pm/8pm)
The final place in Group G has been taken by Al Ain FC, who are based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates and compete in the UAE Pro League. They finished 5th this season but gained access to this summer’s action after winning the 2023–24 AFC Champions League.
Could Wydad kick off the Group G action with one of the biggest upsets of all time? Find out on DAZN!
Tottenham Hotspur’s pull in the transfer market, not to mention the finances available for crucial signings, have undoubtedly been boosted by their spot in the Champions League for next season, with chairman Daniel Levy and the Lilywhites recruitment team set for a very intriguing summer window.
Ange Postecoglou vows better Premier League finish for Spurs
Spurs confirmed their place in Europe’s most prestigious competition by reigning triumphant in the Europa League final last week, an historic night for both the club and under-fire manager Ange Postecoglou.
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Domestically, Spurs finished one place outside the relegation zone in 17th, breaking their all-time record for most Premier League defeats in a single campaign, and this has resulted in a major dilemma for Levy when it comes to deciding Postecoglou’s long-term future.
Son Heung-min
7.00
James Maddison
6.98
Pedro Porro
6.95
Dominic Solanke
6.84
Dejan Kulusevski
6.83
via WhoScored
Their Europa League triumph represents a significant milestone for the north Londoners, who ended their 17-year wait for silverware and secured their first European trophy since 1984, with Postecoglou highly suggesting that he wants to stay at Tottenham during their trophy parade last week.
The final call on that won’t rest with the Australian, though, who also vowed to put Spurs in a much stronger position domestically if he’s given the chance next term.
“From my perspective, I made decisions that I felt were giving us the best chance of achieving the goal we needed to achieve this year and that has affected our league form,” said Postecoglou after Tottenham’s 4-1 loss to Brighton on the final day.
“If people don’t want to take that into account, then there is nothing I can say to explain it any better than that.
“I came to the club and we had finished eighth. I didn’t take over a club that had finished second. They had no European football to speak of. Lost the one player who probably guarantees you European football. That was my starting point. At the end of two years, I’ve got the club a trophy it has been crying out for, Champions League football, we finished fifth last year. Either people are saying ‘last year it was a huge anomaly for us to finish fifth or this is what we deliver right.’
“I have got no doubt next year we will be in a much stronger position, challenging for the top places.”
If Postecoglou does stay for 2025/2026, there is little denying he needs to be backed in the transfer market with Tottenham’s newly-found Champions League riches this summer.
Pundit convinced Angel Gomes wants to join Tottenham
Injuries left Postecoglou hamstrung at various points over the course of 24/25, emphasising the need for Spurs to strengthen across the board.
Their greater pull could also help them to land Europe’s most coveted free agents, like England international midfielder Angel Gomes, who is set to leave Lille when his contract expires on June 30.
Tottenham have been tipped as one of the favourites to sign Gomes on a free this summer, with pundit John Wenham telling Tottenham News that he’s convinced the 24-year-old would jump at the chance to join Postecoglou’s side.
“Tottenham are going to be playing in the Champions League next season,” Wenham said.
England'sAngelGomesin action
“Therefore, when it comes to the pecking order of options Gomes has, I’m sure that Tottenham would be near the top of the list if they were to make an offer.
“I’m sure Gomes wants to come to Tottenham and live in London and play Champions League football with the current Europa League holders. As a result, I’m sure a decision will be made on that soon.”
The former Man United gem has impressed in Ligue 1 since his switch there in 2020, so much so that he was awarded his first call-ups to the Three Lions squad late last year.
He could be an astute option to reinforce Tottenham’s midfield, which was left desperately short at points last season and crippled their chances of success.
Somerset returned to the top of the South Group after knocking off their target with 45 balls to spare
ECB Reporters Network11-Jun-2024
Riley Meredith was playing his first match at Lord’s•Getty Images
Riley Meredith led the rout as Somerset bowled Middlesex out for 78 at Lord’s – their lowest ever score in the history of Vitality Blast cricket.The 27-year-old Tasmanian with six white-ball caps for his country took 4 for 12, while Craig Overton, Josh Davey and the competition’s leading wicket-taker Ben Green took two apiece in the nine-wicket romp.Middlesex only got within two runs of their previous worst score – 80 against Kent at Lord’s three years ago – thanks to as defiant 10th-wicket stand of 28 between Tom Helm and Noah Cornwell, who top scored with 15 apiece.Tom Banton, 49 not out and Tom Kohler-Cadmore 30 not out were both given lives as Somerset sealed a third win of the campaign. Middlesex remain bottom of the South Group.As well as Meredith and Overton bowled up top, Middlesex contributed to this debacle by batting with reckless abandon. Pinch-hitter Martin Andersson crashed two fours through the covers in the opening over after Middlesex were put in, but once he skied Meredith to mid-on in the next, the rot set in.Stephen Eskinazi fell to a cross-batted slog, before Meredith had Holden taken at mid-on to an even worse heave. Overton cranked up the pressure with a maiden to Ryan Higgins, during which the all-rounder failed to lay bat on ball and in the aftermath Joe Cracknell, back in the side for the sick Leus Du Plooy edged Meredith’s best ball of the match through to wicketkeeper Banton.Davies too had perished by the time the opening bowlers took their leave with the Lord’s tenants in tatters at 34 for 6.The competition’s leading wicket-taker Ben Green didn’t enter the fray until the score was 50 for 7 but made an instant impression taking the wickets of Luke Hollman and Blake Cullen with his first two balls.Cornwell saved the hat-trick before celebrating his call-up to the England U19s by clubbing Somerset skipper Lewis Gregory into the Grandstand but that was about the only cause for cheer for the beleaguered hosts.Will Smeed fell for only one caught on the fence off Helm and had Davies clung on to an inside edge from Kohler-Cadmore in the next over bowled by Cullen Middlesex might have made a fist of it, but the chance was grassed.Middlesex’s misery was compounded when Cornwell was forced from the field mid-over with a hand injury caused trying to take a return catch off one smashed back at him by Banton.Thereafter the Somerset duo settled down, both striking sixes into the Grandstand as the Cider-men romped home with 45 balls to spare.
Manchester City have now opened talks to sign a £42m attacking midfielder who’s “one of the best” number 10’s in the world, according to a report.
Man City making progress in Rayan Cherki pursuit
Man City have set their sights on a new attacking midfielder this summer, following the departure of Kevin De Bruyne, and their pursuit of Lyon star Rayan Cherki is progressing nicely, with Fabrizio Romano recently dropping an exciting update.
The deal to sign Cherki is now thought to be close, with Lyon expected to ask for a fee of £35m, and the attacking midfielder cannot wait to make the move to the Etihad Stadium.
However, the move isn’t over the line just yet, which means Pep Guardiola’s side are still considering other potential targets, and they have now opened talks over a deal for RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons.
That is according to a report from L’Equipe, which states Simons has been identified as a back-up option for Cherki, should the deal for the 21-year-old fall through, with the Dutchman now expected to leave the German club this summer.
Alongside Ait-Nouri: Man City want "world-class" £67m full-back on the other side
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After arriving at Leipzig from Paris Saint-Germain for a fee of €50m (£42m), the attacking midfielder’s time with the Bundesliga side appears to be coming to an end, and there is no shortage of interest, with Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal also keen.
Simons could be among the world's best no.10s
Replacing De Bruyne was always going to be a difficult task, with chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak recently stating he believes the Belgian is the best player ever to wear the City shirt: “What Kevin has given to this club, in my view, he is the greatest player to play for this club. I think his accomplishments speak for themselves.”
In truth, it will be very difficult for any player to replicate the 33-year-old’s achievements, but there are some signs the RB Leipzig star could be on a similar level, having been singled out for very high praise by one scout back in January.
That said, the Blues making a move for Simons appears to be contingent on the Cherki deal falling through, and they should also be extremely happy if they secure the Frenchman’s signature, given his goal and assist return this season.
Will Smeed smashed 86 off 48 balls to lead Somerset to a 108-run Vitality Blast South Group victory over Glamorgan at the Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton.The opener blitzed nine fours and five sixes to dominate the home side’s innings of 193 for 8 after losing the toss. Craig Overton contributed 42, while Dan Douthwaite claimed three wickets in an over to finish with 4 for 37 from four.In reply, Glamorgan could muster only 85 all out, Sam Northeast top scoring with 24 and Lewis Gregory taking 3 for 11 to become Somerset’s equal leading wicket-taker in T20 cricket.Somerset’s innings was a rollercoaster, starting well, dipping dramatically and finishing strongly. Smeed and Tom Banton produced an opening stand of 38 inside four overs before Banton was bowled by a full delivery from Timm van der Gugten.It was 51 for 1 at the end of the six-over powerplay as Smeed took centre stage, dominating a second-wicket stand of 54 inside six overs with an out-of-sorts Tom Kohler-Cadmore, who fell to a boundary catch off Andy Gorvin for nine.By then, Smeed had gone to a brilliant 30-ball half-century with a pulled four to fine leg off Douthwaite. He celebrated by clearing the rope in the same area next ball and Somerset looked on course for a 200-plus score.That changed in the 12th over, which saw Douthwaite send back Tom Abell, Sean Dickson and Gregory with the second, fourth and sixth deliveries, Dickson to a brilliant one-handed catch by Jamie McIlroy at mid-on. When Ben Green was caught and bowled by Mason Crane at the start of the following over four wickets had fallen in the space of seven balls.Smeed, who had looked on course for his second T20 century, was bowled by a full-length ball from Douthwaite and Somerset were seven down with more than six overs of their innings left. Overton and Roelof van der Merwe showed their experience by steadying the ship before a late assault, which saw Overton hit sixes over long-off and long-on, the latter sending the ball sailing into the River Tone.A half-century stand off 30 balls gave the hosts momentum going into Glamorgan’s reply, which saw Overton dismiss Kiran Carlson, caught at third man in the first over, and Riley Meredith send down a wicket-maiden, having former Somerset player Eddie Byrom caught behind for a duck.Marnus Labuschagne and Northeast took the score to 37 by the end of the powerplay, but the second ball of the seventh over saw Labuschagne fall lbw to Gregory aiming to leg. Colin Ingram then guided an Overton delivery straight to gully to leave Glamorgan 43 for 4.Northeast miscued an attempted scoop shot off Gregory to Jake Ball at short fine-leg and when Douthwaite offered the same bowler a tame return catch Somerset’s captain had equalled leg-spinner Max Waller’s record of 139 T20 wickets for the county.Van der Gugten clothed a Ball delivery to cover and Chris Cooke was superbly caught by Green on the cover boundary at the end of the same over to make it 71 for eight.Gorvin delayed the inevitable with a couple of belligerent blows, but left-arm spinner van der Merwe wrapped up the result, taking wickets with his only two balls of the innings.