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Carlos Baleba has been backed to become Manchester United's own Rodri despite Casemiro's resurgence at Old Trafford. In recent weeks, the Brazilian has reminded fans exactly why he’s one of the finest defensive midfielders of his generation. Yet, Ruben Amorim feels that he needs to add more steel in midfield, and a summer bid for Baleba has not been ruled out.

Casemiro’s renaissance, but time is ticking

Casemiro's performances have been nothing short of vintage. He scored and assisted in United’s 4–2 win over Brighton, and before that, he produced a commanding display in the club’s first victory at Anfield in almost a decade. Add to that his match-winning strike against Chelsea in September, and it is clear Casemiro’s hunger is far from fading. Yet behind the resurgence lies a reality that can’t be ignored. He is 33 years old, and with countless miles already on the clock, he is definitely not getting any fresher. Amorim has managed Casemiro’s minutes with care, and the Portuguese manager is convinced that, although the veteran has shown no signs of slowing down, another marquee addition is necessary.    

AdvertisementGOALA £115 million dream that slipped away

United had been tracking Baleba for months. But Brighton, ever the masters of the market, slammed the door shut. They valued Baleba at no less than £115 million ($153m), which is the same figure Chelsea paid for Moises Caicedo. United’s hierarchy balked at the price, and the deal was shelved. Now, with Amorim’s midfield plans for next summer already in motion in the boardroom, and Casemiro still holding the fort, calls to reignite that pursuit are growing louder, led by none other than Louis Saha, the former Old Trafford striker. 

Speaking to OLBG, Saha said: "Fabinho was very powerful for Liverpool and Rodri happened to be the same for Man City. When you have this very strong midfielder that provides in the transition, the power and the stability at the same time, that's a top player and there are not so many who are able to actually dictate midfield as much. We’ve heard that there were talks with Brighton for Carlos Baleba who was very close to joining and I really like his style.  

"Everyone can see that there is a gap and a need for power and the ability to change the tempo of the game. Sometimes United play to stay secure and slow the pace and that is not helpful for United’s strikers so we need something better." 

But Saha was equally quick to praise Casemiro’s current form, insisting that his recent resurgence should not go unnoticed.

"I have to say that Casemiro has done really well, not because he’s scored goals, but more his capacity to represent stability and resilience," he said. "That's really important when you are under pressure and I think he's managed the pressure really well because the expectations are enormous. I think he's done really well. He gives a new tempo and new belief to Manchester United and I do think that he needs credit for that."

Baleba is the midfield engine United crave

Baleba has an explosive engine and the tactical intelligence to read danger before it happens. Those qualities have drawn comparisons not just to Rodri but to former United star Michael Carrick. Saha believes it’s those physical and mental attributes that make Baleba such a perfect fit for Amorim’s system. 

He said: "Give me back Michael Carrick! I think when you look at the need for power and the legs to cover ground I think Baleba is a little bit more useful because I think you can then have Bruno Fernandes repositioned a little bit. You could have another player, even Kobbie Mainoo, who can do that if he had maybe a better understanding of positioning and the momentum you need to bring to the game."

Saha also explained that Amorim’s pressing system requires a midfielder with relentless stamina. And Baleba is a player capable of pushing the defensive line 10 yards higher and then recovering instantly.

"There is an element that can compensate where we need power, but we need those legs to be able to really impose the pressure that Amorim wants, maybe 10 yards further up the field. When you do that you need the ability to come back on the pressure, on the counter-attack, so I think that Baleba is more suited to that," he added. 

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Getty Images SportThe transfer battle ahead

Despite United’s renewed interest, Brighton have made it clear that Baleba is not for sale in January. The Seagulls see him as central to their long-term project and will resist any bids mid-season. That means United must either wait until the summer to submit an official bid. However, they are also looking at other targets as backup. Among them is Elliot Anderson, the Nottingham Forest midfielder who is admired by Amorim for his versatility. Another name on United’s radar is Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace. Angelo Stiller of Stuttgart, meanwhile, could represent a more attainable target. The German midfielder has a £35 million release clause, and sources suggest he is open to a Premier League move. But the most realistic and immediate option might be Conor Gallagher, as Atletico Madrid might sanction a loan move until the end of the season in the winter. 

Football's lawmakers will discuss giving VAR the power to review second yellow cards at a meeting in January. The International Football Association Board's (IFAB) advisory group has confirmed the proposal will be submitted, which would expand VAR's remit beyond its current limitation of only reviewing straight red cards. The move is based on the idea that second yellow cards are often match-changing decisions which should be subject to review.

• Major shake-up of VAR rules

  IFAB will consider proposals aimed at both speeding up the game and improving communication between players and referees, according to . One proposal involves extending the eight-second countdown currently applied to goalkeepers holding the ball to also include throw-ins and goal kicks, with the intention of reducing time wasting. 

  Additionally, it will be recommended that the existing policy of allowing only team captains to speak with referees about decisions be made a mandatory rule. The eight-second rule has been used twice so far this season, when Martin Dubravka delayed too long with the ball for Burnley against Tottenham and Caoimhin Kelleher for Brentford against Liverpool. Controversially, Brentford took a total of nine minutes 18 seconds to take just ten throw-ins during the game against Liverpool at the Gtech Community Stadium.

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• AFP
  

  VAR decision expected early next year

  A statement from IFAB said: "In relation to the video assistant referee (VAR) protocol, it was discussed that, among others, the video match officials (VMO) should have the possibility to intervene when an incorrect second yellow card has been given. A relevant proposal will be submitted to the Ifab’s Annual Business Meeting, which is due to meet on 20 January 2026 in London. Deliberations included whether the countdown principle could be applied to throw-ins and goal kicks and how to reduce the amount of time lost owing to stoppages caused by injuries and substitutions."

• VAR-reaching powers have grown in recent years

  Since its 2019 introduction, VAR has been a constant source of controversy. While intended to increase decision accuracy, VAR has frustrated fans, players, and managers alike with its inconsistencies and slow execution. Critics argue it has diminished the matchday experience by sapping the emotion from goal celebrations. Former Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou said, "This constant erosion of referees' authority… is diminishing the authority of the referee". And Anthony Gordon bemoaned VAR’s intervention in him not being awarded a penalty in 2023, he said: "I don't mind the referee getting it wrong on the pitch, but I don't understand the point of VAR. Either get rid of it or get better. It's that simple, there are too many mistakes." Despite complaints and admitted errors, like the infamous Luis Diaz offside incident at Tottenham in 2023, the Premier League maintains VAR has increased overall correct decision-making. However, a 2024 YouGov poll revealed nearly 90 per cent of matchgoing fans want changes or for it to be scrapped completely. Most opt for reform rather than abandonment, citing delays and communication issues as primary concerns. 

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• Getty Images Sport
  

  No guarantees move will be given green light

  There is no indication if the move to include yellow cards will definitely be taken up and there is resistance from those within the game in England. FA chief executive and IFAB board member, Mark Bullingham, told the in July: "There are regular discussions in IFAB about what VAR should be, and how it should move forward. I think our position is that we’re in a good place now. Of course if someone brings an item forward for IFAB to consider, then as a group we’ll consider it. But as a group we don’t necessarily think that VAR needs to be extended at the moment. We think there’s enough interruptions to the game in the current model."

A number of iconic strikers have donned Sunderland red and white over the years, getting the Black Cats out of many sticky patches in the Premier League.

Kevin Phillips will always go down as the most memorable, notably winning The Golden Boot on Wearside when he powered home 30 strikes during Sunderland’s 1999/2000 campaign.

While Jermain Defoe would never hit these amazing heights, the lethal Englishman did consistently bail his team out of relegation danger when scoring 34 top-flight goals over three seasons near the bottom of the tough division.

In the here and now, a new hero is forming to potentially rival the exploits of both journeyman attackers.

Wilson Isidor was already firmly in the Stadium of Light’s good books when he fired home 13 strikes last season to steer Sunderland back up to the top-flight after a seven-year absence.

So, Isidor, already bagging some crucial strikes in the infancy of this season, has not harmed his glowing reputation among the hardened Wearside masses whatsoever. Rather, it has significantly strengthened his fan favourite status.

Isidor's start to Premier League life

Often, the jump-up from the Championship to the Premier League can swallow a player whole.

Many Sunderland supporters might have anticipated that the French striker would find the step-up in quality to be a frightening one to navigate. Instead, he has seemingly taken it in his stride.

Three glorious strikes have already been picked up by the ex-Zenit St. Petersburg forward, with those first two efforts only coming about from a combined 39 minutes of action.

The Black Cats’ “one man machine” – as he was glowingly labelled by Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley in the second tier – has since become Le Bris’ main starter up top, with that third and final strike falling against Aston Villa handing the ten men on the day a dramatic share of the points.

Isidor will just be glad he hasn’t been branded as a presence who couldn’t handle the intense heat of the Premier League, with Unai Emery’s Villans reportedly contemplating a move for the skilful 6-foot-1 striker, off the back of his late heroics at the tail-end of September.

Unfortunately, not every addition made by Sunderland in recent memory has been able to make their start to top-flight life in England look as seamless, with Jozy Altidore still sticking out to this day as one of the Black Cats’ worst blunders in the attacking department.

Altidore's awful spell at Sunderland in numbers

In the summer of 2013, Sunderland must have thought they’d picked up a stellar bargain when landing Altidore’s signature for a modest £9m.

After all, he was just fresh off an insanely potent season in the Eredivisie with AZ Alkmaar, with a stunning 23 league goals fired home from just 33 games during his swansong campaign in the Netherlands.

Games played

42

Minutes played

2080

Goals scored

1

Assists

1

Unfortunately, he never found that same lethal form on English soil, culminating in Altidore’s smart turn and finish against Chelsea – which can be seen above – going down as his only strike for the Wearside outfit from 42 largely forgettable outings.

Labelled as “Dozy Anti-score” by some Sunderland fans, Isidor will just be glad he has never received similar vitriol, with the Frenchman a reliable source of goals and entertainment, thankfully, as opposed to being public enemy number one for being wasteful in front of goal.

Coincidentally, the American’s nightmare at the Stadium of Light came to a halt when an exchange deal for the aforementioned Defoe to move back to England was arranged with Toronto FC. Altidore then turned into a dependable MLS marksman for the Canadian side.

Yet, a modern-day tale similar to Altidore’s could now be playing out in real time.

Sunderland "powerhouse" could be the next Altidore

Thankfully, most of Sunderland’s summer purchases haven’t fallen victim to the Altidore curse of freezing in the big time.

It was to be expected that Granit Xhaka would be an instant hit under Le Bris’ wing in the Premier League, having already proven himself to be a forceful machine with Arsenal in the demanding division.

But, other new faces such as Nordi Mukiele and Omar Alderete – who once called France and Spain home – have instantly slotted into the Frenchman’s lineup, too, and looked near faultless, with just three league goals given up as a pairing, before a humbling 2-0 defeat to Manchester United.

Yet, while a lot of the summer business has gone down as success stories from the get-go, striker Brian Brobbey is yet to live up to the “goal machine” tag once handed to him by scout Jacek Kulig, when gifted limited opportunities to impress.

In an eerily similar fashion to Altidore, Brobbey had long been seen as a feared goalscorer in the Eredivisie for previous employers Ajax before embarking on a fresh adventure to English shores, with the homegrown Amsterdam product bagging a lethal 56 strikes from 163 contests.

Therefore, with the 23-year-old also costing a bumper £17.3m to obtain in a stunning deadline day swoop, the world would have been expected of Brobbey on his arrival, with Isidor likely to be displaced by the number nine’s efficient ability to put away chances in an instant.

Games played

3

Games started

0

Minutes*

21

Goals scored

0

Assists

0

Touches*

5.7

Accurate passes*

1.3 (50%)

Total duels won*

1.3

In reality, Brobbey has struggled for gametime whilst Isidor continues to steal the limelight, much like Altidore was guilty of playing second fiddle to figures such as Steven Fletcher and Connor Wickham.

Worryingly, the brand-new number 9 is yet to even register a single shot in the Premier League from his three lacklustre cameos, away from also averaging just 5.7 touches of the ball per substitute appearance.

He has also looked concerningly weak in physical battles despite once being noted as a “powerhouse” by scout Antonio Mango, with just one aerial duel from four attempted won last time out against Ruben Amorim’s Red Devils.

It is far too early in the season to be writing off individuals, but it will be intriguing to see how long Brobbey’s early barren patch of form can run before he is looked down on as a potential expensive flop.

For now, Le Bris will hope he can come good, but it will be bothering some at the Stadium of Light already that the £17.3m signing could go down as a similar Altidore-style misfire.

Seb Larsson 2.0: Le Bris must unleash Sunderland's "sensational" talent

One wizard shines for Sunderland, drawing early comparisons to Seb Larsson

ByWill Miller Oct 4, 2025

Nottingham Forest are now into their fourth season of Premier League football after qualifiying for the Europa League during the 2024/25 campaign.

The Reds do fork out an eye-catching amount when it comes to salaries, though. In fact, their annual payroll stands at £93,210,000 with an average yearly wage for a first team player standing at just under £3m. Here’s Nottingham Forest’s best-paid players from the 2025/26 season. All earnings are based on reports via Capology.

Disclaimer – only the club and the players themselves truly know their wages, so take each of these figures as you will.

Rank

Player

Gross pay per week

Gross pay per year

1

Douglas Luiz

£135,000

£7,020,000

2

Oleksandr Zinchenko

£120,000

£6,240,000

3

Morgan Gibbs-White

£110,000

£5,720,000

4

Nikola Milenkovic

£105,000

£5,460,000

=5

Chris Wood

£90,000

£4,680,000

=5

Callum Hudson-Odoi

£90,000

£4,608,000

7

Dan Ndoye

£85,000

£4,420,000

=8

Ibrahim Sangare

£75,000

£3,900,000

=8

Murillo

£75,000

£3,900,000

10

Dilane Bakwa

£70,000

£3,640,000

11

Neco Williams

£65,000

£3,380,000

=12

Arnaud Kalimuendo

£60,000

£3,120,000

=12

Ola Aina

£60,000

£3,120,000

14

Omari Hutchinson

£55,000

£2,860,000

=15

Ryan Yates

£50,000

£2,600,000

=15

Taiwo Awoniyi

£50,000

£2,600,000

=15

Igor Jesus

£50,000

£2,600,000

18

Nicolo Savona

£45,000

£2,340,000

=19

Willy Boly

£40,000

£2,080,000

=19

Elliot Anderson

£40,000

£2,080,000

=19

John Victor

£40,000

£2,080,000

=19

Matz Sels

£40,000

£2,080,000

=19

James McAtee

£40,000

£2,080,000

=24

Nicolas Dominguez

£35,000

£1,820,000

=24

Cuiabano

£35,000

£1,820,000

=24

Jair Cunha

£35,000

£1,820,000

=24

Morato

£35,000

£1,820,000

28

Angus Gunn

£30,000

£1,560,000

29

Omar Richards

£15,000

£780,000

30

Zach Abbott

£12,500

£650,000

31

Tyler Bindon

£5,000

£260,000

Here's a detailed look at Nottingham Forest's top 10 earners… 10 Dilane Bakwa £70,000 per week

One of many to sign for Nottingham Forest in 2025, Dilane Bakwa arrived at the City Ground after impressing in France with Strasbourg.

The winger signed a five-year deal with the Reds on deadline day, earning £3.64m a season.

9 Murillo £75,000 per week

Murillo has proven to be an excellent signing for Nottingham Forest after joining back in 2023.

A number of European giants were circling for the Brazilian defender, however, he signed a new improved five-year deal to stay with Forest in 2025.

8 Ibrahim Sangare £75,000 per week

Ibrahim Sangare was Forest’s record signing when he joined from PSV Eindhoven in 2023, signing a five-year deal worth £75,000 per week.

The Ivory Coast international only made 17 Premier League appearances in his first full campaign and 13 in his second season, though.

7 Dan Ndoye £85,000 per week

Dan Ndoye signed for Nottingham Forest from Serie A side Bologna after the Reds qualified for the Europa League.

Costing around £34m, the Switzerland international signed a five-year deal and is in line to recieve a total of £22.1m in wages during his time at the club.

6 Callum Hudson-Odoi £90,000 per week

Winger Callum Hudson-Odoi also picks up an eye-catching £90,000 per week, with Forest landing the attacker from Chelsea for an initial £3m in 2023.

That has proven to be a shrewd signing so far, with the Englishman chipping in with numerous goals and assists with his direct play.

5 Chris Wood £90,000 per week

Chris Wood initially joined on loan from Newcastle United in 2023, with that move becoming permanent months later after Forest remained in the Premier League.

The New Zealand international has used all of his experience to become first choice and is now the club’s all-time record scorer in the Premier League.

4 Nikola Milenkovic £105,000 per week

2024 signing Nikola Milenkovic swapped Fiorentina for Forest and was a regular during his first season at the City Ground alongside Murillo.

The Serbia international is under contract until 2029.

3 Morgan Gibbs-White £110,000 per week

Arguably one of Nottingham Forest’s most important players, Morgan Gibbs-White has gone from strength to strength after swapping Wolves for Forest following the club’s promotion to the Premier League.

He nearly signed for Tottenham in 2025, however, at the last minute, signed a new improved contract at the City Ground on £110,000 per week.

2 Oleksandr Zinchenko £120,000 per week

Oleksandr Zinchenko signed for Forest late in the 2025 summer transfer window after the club submitted a deal sheet just before the deadline.

The Ukraine international is on a season-long loan from Arsenal, with Forest paying him over £6m in wages for the year.

1 Douglas Luiz £135,000 per week

Another loanee at the City Ground and Nottingham Forest’s top earner is midfielder Douglas Luiz, who will pick up more than £7m in wages from the Reds.

The Brazilian made the move back to the Premier League from Juventus, and there is an obligation to make a move permanent if conditions are met.

Finishing with aplomb, Sunderland have now reportedly reached an agreement to sign another impressive star from a Champions League club.

Chelsea recall Marc Guiu from Sunderland

One of the many impressive deals that Sunderland struck earlier this summer was an agreement to take Marc Guiu on loan from Chelsea. The young forward is full of potential and was ready to challenge for a place in Regis Le Bris’ side until Liam Delap’s injury caused a frustrating domino effect.

Now, having only just started working his way into Sunderland’s Premier League plans, Guiu must compete for a place in a dressing room that is filled to the brim with young talent. Sunderland, meanwhile, have been forced to turn their focus back towards the transfer market.

On that front, it looks as though the Black Cats are in for a frantic deadline day. Despite already spending big this summer, Reports now suggesting that they’ve reached an agreement with RB Leipzig to Lutsharel Geertruida in yet another impressive move for a player from a European club.

Meanwhile, when questioned on potential deadline day moves, Le Bris told reporters: “The last couple of days are always a crazy period. I think every club waits until the last minute to decide.”

After such a strong start to their Premier League return – winning two out of their opening three games – any added reinforcements will be an even further boost for those at the Stadium of Light. With Geertruida agreed and Guiu heading back to Chelsea, Sunderland have also shifted their focus towards a Champions League ace.

Sunderland reach agreement to sign Brobbey

As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Sunderland have now reached an agreement to sign Brian Brobbey from Ajax on deadline day. The forward has benefitted from Cheslea’s Guiu decision and a deal worth around €25m (£22m) with add-ons has now been struck. With a medical scheduled, the Dutchman looks poised to seal his move.

Granit Xhaka was an excellent coup earlier this summer, but Sunderland will arguably top that by signing both Geertruida and Brobbey on a fantastic double deadline day deal. The forward, in particular, would be a major upgrade on the more inexperienced Guiu.

Dubbed “powerful” by U23 scout Antonio Mango last year, Brobbey scored seven goals and assisted another six in all competitions last season as Ajax struggled, but it was the season prior that he showed his true potential.

Sunderland now "keen" to sign rapid £35m star similar to Vinicius Junior

The Black Cats are ready to make a late swoop…

1 BySean Markus Clifford Aug 31, 2025

After scoring 22 goals and assisting 11 more in all competitions in the 2023/24 campaign, it’s clear that Sunderland are signing a player that is capable of taking the Premier League by storm.

وجه ييس توروب، المدير الفني لفريق الأهلي، الشكر إلى بوروندي وشعبها على الاستضافة الكريمة، مؤكدًا أنها المرة الأولى التي يحضر فيها إلى بوجومبورا، مبديًا سعادته بالإقامة والضيافة.

جاء ذلك في بداية حديثه خلال المؤتمر الصحفي الذي عقد اليوم للحديث عن مباراة الأهلي وإيجل نوار في ذهاب دور الـ32 من بطولة دوري أبطال إفريقيا المقرر إقامتها غدًا.

طالع.. ييس توروب يحاضر لاعبي الأهلي استعدادًا لمواجهة إيجل نوار في دوري أبطال إفريقيا

وقال توروب في تصريحاته بالمؤتمر الصحفي: “شاهدت فريق إيجل نوار في العديد من المباريات، وأمتلك ما يكفي من المعلومات عنه، وهذه ليست أول مرة لي في إفريقيا، حيث سبق وحضرت برفقة فريق أوجسبورج الألماني إلى جنوب إفريقيا في معسكر مغلق هناك، وخضت بعض المباريات الودية مع العديد من الفرق في جنوب إفريقيا”.

وأضاف: “أعرف الكثير عن الكرة الإفريقية ولدي دراية كافية بها، وأعرف الكثير عن فريق إيجل نوار”.

وبسؤاله عن الطقس في بوروندي: “الطقس جديد علينا هنا بالنظر إلى مثيله في القاهرة، كانت هناك أمطار شديدة أمس لكن غدًا مع صافرة الحكم لا يهمني الطقس ويهمني فقط تحقيق الفوز”.

وأوضح أن دوري أبطال إفريقيا بطولة مهمة جدًّا بالنسبة له وإلى الأهلي، ويخوض منافساتها لأول مرة خلال مسيرته التدريبية، ولهذا يسعى إلى انطلاقة قوية أمام إيجل نوار بتحقيق الفوز واستكمال المسيرة.

واختتم: “مباراة الغد تعد الشوط الأول وهناك شوط ثان في القاهرة، والأهلي يمتلك تاريخًا حافلًا بالبطولات على جميع المستويات، ويقف على أرض عامرة بالإنجازات، ولكني جئت من أجل تحقق المزيد من الألقاب، أحترم الماضي ولكن سوف أعمل من أجل الحاضر والمستقبل”. 

وتعد مباراة إيجل نوار الأولى في مسيرة توروب مع الأهلي بعد تولي القيادة الفنية للفريق خلفًا لـ للإسباني المقال خوسيه ريبيرو.

Over the last couple of years, Tottenham Hotspur have parted ways with numerous top-level forwards who constantly produced the goods during their time at the club.

Harry Kane rose through the youth levels in North London, eventually making over 400 appearances for the Lilywhites – netting 280 goals – the highest individual tally in their history.

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However, he would depart the side back in the summer of 2023, leaving in a £82m deal to join German outfit Bayern Munich – with his legacy forever intact despite his departure.

Heung-min Son is another who has moved on to pastures new, joining LAFC this summer, ending his decade spell in the capital, which saw him and Kane break the record for the most combined goals between two players in Premier League history (47).

Losing such talents makes the job of replacing them a near-impossible one, but new boss Thomas Frank continues to hunt for added reinforcements ahead of his first season at the helm.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new attackers this summer

Savinho has been one of Spurs’ biggest targets over the last few weeks, with the hierarchy even submitting a £60m bid to try and land the Manchester City winger.

Such an offer was rejected, with further talks being held, but it now seems unlikely the 21-year-old will move to North London, with Pep Guardiola’s side wanting to keep hold of him beyond Monday’s deadline.

However, another name has entered the mix over recent days, with Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo reemerging on their shortlist, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

He recently claimed that the Lilywhites have “made some calls” to the Cherries over a deal for the Ghanaian, who penned a new contract until 2030 earlier this summer.

Romano also stated Frank’s side have stepped up their interest in the “last 24 hours”, but could have to fork out as much as £60m for the 25-year-old, who’s already scored twice in 2025/26.

Why Spurs’ latest target is just like Eze

Spurs’ hunt for a new forward has been a summer-long process, with numerous players constantly on their radar – including Eberechi Eze before his move to boyhood club, Arsenal.

The Lilywhites held constant discussions with Crystal Palace over a deal to land the England international – leading to terms being agreed between the two sides.

However, given Spurs’ inability to close other deals this summer, it was a surprise to no one to see a deal fail to cross the line, with the Lilywhites’ North London rivals swooping in at the 11th hour.

It was confirmed last weekend that the 27-year-old had joined Mikel Arteta’s side for a fee in the region of £67.5m, including add-ons, subsequently putting a huge dent in Frank’s ambitions of improving his front line.

Such a blow could be softened, especially if a deal for Semenyo gets completed before Monday’s transfer deadline, with the forward possessing numerous similarities to Eze.

He’s spent the last two and a half years at the Vitality, joining the Cherries from Championship side Bristol City – just as Eze did, when he linked up with the Eagles from QPR back in the summer of 2020.

However, despite their similarities, Semenyo, who’s also an Arsenal fan, managed to outperform him in numerous key areas last campaign – potentially offering Frank a versatile option across his front line in 2025/26.

The Ghanaian achieved a higher shot-on-target accuracy rate in the Premier League last season, a tally that could provide the new boss with the added ammunition he’s been craving within the final third.

Semenyo’s goalscoring ability is one thing, but he’s also showcased his superb technique to glide past the opposition – completing more take-ons than Eze, whilst also making over double the number of carries into the opposition box per 90.

How Semenyo & Eze compared in the PL (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Semenyo

Eze

Games played

37

34

Goals & assists

16

16

Shot on target accuracy

32%

27%

Progressive carries

3.9

2.4

Take-on success

51%

48%

Carries into final third

1.9

1.6

Carries into opposition box

1.9

0.7

Aerials won

1.9

0.2

Passes into opposition box

1.4

1.3

Stats via FBref

Such numbers would allow him to be a hit with the supporters, able to create an opportunity for himself out of nothing, before firing home and bolstering the side’s already potent attack.

However, he’s also able to be a provider, notching more passes into the opposition box per 90, with such a tally able to allow the likes of Richarlison the chance to build on their own impressive start to 2025/26.

£60m would be a huge sum spent on a new attacker, but it’s one that could prove to be a bargain if the forward can take his game to the next level in North London.

Missing out on Eze’s signature, especially to their main rivals, would have been a bitter blow, but it could prove to be a blessing in disguise if a deal can be reached for Semenyo.

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Posts 4 ByEthan Lamb Aug 27, 2025

أدلى ناصر الخليفي، رئيس نادي باريس سان جيرمان الفرنسي، بتصريحاته بشأن تتويج لاعب الفريق عثمان ديمبلي بجائزة الكرة الذهبية “بالون دور” للعام 2025.

ومر باريس سان جيرمان بموسم لا يُنسى، بتتويجه بدوري أبطال أوروبا للمرة الأولى في تاريخه، وكذلك فاز ديمبلي بالكرة الذهبية للمرة الأولى في مسيرته الكروية.

وقال الخليفي متحدثًا لصحيفة “ليكيب” الفرنسية بعد فوز عثمان ديمبلي بجائزة الكرة الذهبية: “إنه يوم تاريخي لنا، إنه يوم رائع”.

وأضاف: “إنه الفريق الذي فاز بكل شيء، في الحقيقة، إنه ليس انتصارًا شخصيًا، إنه انتصار الفريق، الجميع، إنه بالضبط ما نتوقعه، أن نمضي قدمًا معًا”.

اقرأ أيضًا | أول تعليق من ديمبلي بعد التتويج بـ الكرة الذهبية 2025

وواصل: “سنستمر على هذا المنوال، الجوائز الفردية جيدة، لكن الأهم دائمًا هو الفريق، نحن نعمل من أجل الفريق، من أجل شعار النادي، هذا هو الأهم”.

وأشار لمباراة باريس سان جيرمان أمام مارسيليا بالدوري الفرنسي، والتي تزامنت مع حفل الكرة الذهبية: “حاولتُ الحضور إلى مارسيليا (خسرنا 0-1)، لكن الأمر لم يكن سهلاً، وكان من الضروري أن أكون هنا الليلة لتمثيل النادي، نحن هنا، وكان من المهم أن أمثل باريس سان جيرمان”.

جدير بالذكر أن باريس سان جيرمان توج بجائزة أفضل نادٍ في العالم للرجال للعام 2025، وتسلم الخليفي الجائزة.

After months of speculation, Manchester United finally secured the signature of Bryan Mbeumo earlier this week, with the Cameroonian international penning a five-year contract.

The hierarchy forked out a whopping £71m for the 25-year-old’s signature, becoming Ruben Amorim’s second signing of the summer after Matheus Cunha joined from Wolverhampton Wanderers.

However, whilst it may be a hefty sum, it could prove to be a worthwhile investment should he replicate his form in the Premier League during the 2024/25 campaign.

He registered 20 league goals last time around, with only talents such as Alexander Isak, Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland finding the net more in the same period.

Despite the big-money addition of Mbeumo, the hierarchy are still working tirelessly to improve the current squad to try and be successful in the 2025/26 season.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

Ollie Watkins is a player who’s been constantly linked with United over the last couple of weeks, leading to strong interest from Amorim’s side this summer.

The England international could be available for a fee in the region of £60m this summer, a figure that could be slightly inflated given he’s 29 and coming into the back end of his professional career.

However, another name has been thrown into the mix over recent days, with PSG striker Randal Kolo-Muani also in their sights, according to one Spanish outlet.

They claim that the Red Devils are preparing an opening offer for the Frenchman after scoring 10 goals in his 22 appearances on loan at Italian side Juventus.

It also states that Newcastle United are in the hunt for the 26-year-old, with Luis Enrique’s side currently demanding a fee in the region of £39m for his signature this summer.

Why United’s £39m target would be a better signing than Mbeumo

There’s no doubt that signing a player after scoring 20 league goals in England’s top flight is excellent business for a club who were lingering in the bottom half all campaign.

However, there may be some concerns around his impact next season, potentially having to operate in an unnatural role at the club given Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system.

The Cameroonian operated in a right-wing position during his time at Brentford, but could be forced to play in a central attacking midfield role during his time at Old Trafford.

It could prove to be a huge investment on a player who’s not featuring in a familiar position, potentially failing to replicate his excellent form from 2024/25 as a result.

As a result, Kolo Muani could be a better option this summer, handing the manager the centre-forward he’s craved since taking the reins back in November last year.

When comparing the Frenchman’s stats to those of Mbeumo from the most recent season, he’s managed to better him in numerous key areas, highlighting the threat he carries in attacking areas.

Kolo Muani, who’s been labelled a “superstar” by former Ballon d’Or winner Lothar Matthäus, may have been outscored, but he posted the same goal per shot on target rate, showcasing the clinical edge he possesses in front of goal.

How Kolo Muani & Mbeumo compare throughout 2024/25

Statistics (per 90)

Kolo Muani

Mbeumo

Games played

26

38

Goals & assists

12

27

Shot on target accuracy

48%

43%

Goal per shot on target

0.4

0.4

Pass accuracy

71%

66%

Take-ons completed

1.5

1.3

Aerials won

1.2

0.9

Aerial success rate

39%

31%

Stats via FBref

He also managed to register a higher shot on target accuracy rate, whilst winning more aerial battles – handing Amorim the all-round talent he desires at the top end of the pitch.

Such dominance is further reflected in his tally of take-ons completed and a higher pass completion rate highlights he can also provide for others along with finishing off attacks himself.

£39m could prove to be an excellent fee for the 26-year-old striker, who will be entering the prime years of his career should he complete a move to Old Trafford.

If he can solve the issue the Red Devils currently have within the final third, he would be worth every penny, filling the void at the top end of the pitch, subsequently making him a better signing than Mbeumo.

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Posts 1 ByAngus Sinclair Jul 22, 2025

It has been a year of emotional homecomings at Celtic in 2025, with the Scottish champions having notably welcomed wing wizard, Jota, back into the fold in January, following a grim 18 months for the Portuguese sensation.

While the 26-year-old’s subsequent injury blow has somewhat overshadowed his £8m return, the hope will be that he can be revived under Brendan Rodgers next season, when he is fit and firing again.

The popular wideman has been a welcome addition back into Rodgers’ ranks, although it is Kieran Tierney’s Parkhead return that is arguably the greater story, with the Scotland star sealing a free transfer switch from Arsenal – six years on from his £25m exit from the Glasgow giants.

Although an injury-hit spell in north London has sparked doubts over whether the 27-year-old can flourish back at his boyhood club, his prior record for the Premiership outfit is more than enough reason for encouragement, having notably registered 37 assists in 170 games during his first spell on the books.

The sight of the rampaging full-back bombing up and down the left flank again in green and white will be a real delight, with Tierney seemingly desperate to be a success once again, having “sacrificed” financially in order to come back to Celtic, according to his manager.

A fit and in-form version of the Scotsman could then prove to be a significant acquisition for Rodgers and co this summer. That said, an even bigger coup could be on the cards…

Latest Celtic transfer news

With Nicolas Kuhn bringing an end to his year-and-a-half stint in Scottish football, in order to join Serie A side Como, the need for reinforcements in the forward ranks has only been heightened – not least with Kyogo Furuhashi having also departed in January.

With Swedish winger Benjamin Nygren already in the door, recent reports have suggested that the 23-year-old could be followed by Shin Yamada and Michel-Ange Balikwisha, albeit with other options still on the table.

Indeed, according to reports, Rodgers is keen on overseeing another high-profile reunion, this time with Tierney’s former teammate, Odsonne Edouard, with Celtic said to be ‘monitoring his situation closely’.

The Frenchman – who left Parkhead to join Crystal Palace on a £14m deal in 2021 – appears to be up for grabs this summer having been ‘put on the market’ by the Eagles, after spending the previous campaign on loan at Leicester City.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

While that temporary stint proved desperately disappointing as the 27-year-old failed to score and made just six appearances for the Foxes, a move back to Glasgow might well be just the solution.

Why Celtic could seal a bigger coup than Tierney

Six months on from having allowed Kyogo to depart for Stade Rennais on a £10m deal, such a switch still has supporters scratching their heads, with the Japanese marksman having shunned the chance to enjoy Champions League knockout stage action, in favour of joining a struggling Ligue 1 side.

Now, the 30-year-old is in England’s second tier at Birmingham City.

As for Celtic, ample time has passed and a suitable replacement has still not been lined up, with Rodgers currently left with Adam Idah – who scored 20 goals last season – and Johnny Kenny as his only senior options through the middle.

It is for that reason that managing to bring Edouard back into the fold could be such an attractive prospect, with the Palace outcast having at one stage looked like the “best striker since Larsson” at Celtic Park, in the words of Martin O’Neill:

Also described as “magnificent” and an “unbelievable player” by former boss, Neil Lennon, Edouard dazzled following his switch from Paris Saint-Germain on an initial loan deal in the summer of 2017, before signing permanently a year later for £9m.

Over the next few years, the 6 foot 2 marksman chalked up 87 goals in just 179 games in all competitions for the Hoops, alongside providing a further 37 assists. For comparison, Kyogo racked up 85 goals and just 19 assists in 165 games for the club.

Such a record emphasises why Edouard would be a worthy investment this summer, even amid his recent woes, having still registered a respectable, albeit unspectacular return of 21 goals in 103 games at Selhurst Park.

Games (starts)

31 (28)

Goals

18

Minutes per goal

130min

Big chances missed

12

Goal conversion

16%

Assists

4

Big chances created

9

Key passes*

1.2

Pass accuracy*

80%

Like Tierney, a fresh start is needed for the striker, and if he can recapture the form he showcased during his first spell, then Rodgers would surely be on to a winner.

Yes, the signing of a cult hero like Tierney is a joyous sight, but it is the figures at the top end of the pitch who truly make the difference, with few having been quite so successful in a Celtic shirt in recent times as Edouard.

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