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The latest round of action across Europe's elite leagues saw Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Porto maintain their winning starts to the 2025-26 season. However, while everyone expects Bayern to run away with the Bundesliga, Barca are hot on the heels of Madrid in La Liga, while Porto are presently processing the news that the most famous manager in the club's history has just taken charge of their hated rivals Benfica.

Over in Italy, Juventus dropped their first points of the season at Verona but Massimiliano Allegri's resurgent AC Milan made it three wins on the bounce by beating Udinese, with Christian Pulisic the star of the show at the Bluenergy Stadium.

In France, Le Classique between Marseille and Paris Saint-Germain was pushed back until Monday due to the weather and that allowed Monaco to draw level with PSG thanks in no small part to a former Barcelona star…

Below, GOAL runs through all the big winners and losers from Europe's top leagues…

AFPWINNER: Lorenzo Pellegrini

Gianluca Mancini played his 15th Rome derby on Sunday but admitted afterwards that he still gets "butterflies" before every game.

"Those on the outside cannot understand what the derby means," the Roma defender told . Lorenzo Pellegrini is no outsider, of course. The Italy international was born and raised in the Eternal City. The derby has always been everything to him.

However, Pellegrini was even more emotional than usual after netting the winner against Lazio as he expected to be sold during the summer before picking up a hamstring injury that ended any hope Roma had of finding a buyer for a midfielder that has often been criticised by the club's fans.

"It's true that I was very moved after scoring the goal," Pellegrini, who is out of contract next summer, told . "Life is unpredictable: you don’t know what could happen next. To win the derby, that is for my people and my family. You are all my family and helped me during this difficult time."

A group of supporters had also unfurled a banner before the game that read "Welcome back, captain!", so even though Bryan Cristante was actually wearing the armband, it was a gesture that was very much appreciated by Pellegrini.

"I know there are those who love me in the stands, and I never doubted it. I love them too," the 29-year-old said. "I also believe this team has so much more to give, as so many great men with character who care about Roma are here now.

"I feel proud to be one of the many captains, those responsible for passing on the passion for Roma to those who have just arrived and haven’t realised where they are. That includes Mancini, who is my brother from another mother.

"Aside from all the reasoning and words, though, there is one constant, which is that I love Roma. As long as I wear this jersey, there won’t be a moment when I will hold back."

AdvertisementAFPWINNER: Ansu Fati

Monaco endured a miserable start to their Champions League campaign, losing 4-1 away to Club Brugge last Thursday. However, there was one positive: Ansu Fati coming off the bench to net his first goal for the club, which put a smile on the face of neutrals all across the world.

Remarkably, even better was to come at the Stade Louis II on Sunday, with the on-loan Barcelona attacker bagging a brace on his Ligue 1 debut as Monaco beat Metz 5-2 to move level on points with PSG at the top of the table.

"I feel very good and capable of helping the team," Fati told the club's official website. "I’m happy to be playing football again. You have to live in the moment and take it one day at a time. No one knows what the future holds but, whatever happens, I’m very happy tonight."

Obviously, Fati is right: there's no point in looking too far ahead. It's very early days and it would be unwise to take anything for granted when it comes to such an injury-ravaged player, making giddy talk of Fati being 'back' feel incredibly premature. 

In fairness, though, it's hard not to be excited by the prospect of the former prodigy getting a once-promising career back on track after so many setbacks in recent seasons. As Barcelona sporting director Deco pointed out during the summer, Fati is still only 22, while there are few better clubs than Monaco when it comes to getting the best out of young talent.

Nobody wanted Fati after his dismal loan spell at Brighton in 2023-24 – least of all Barca boss Hansi Flick – but Monaco might just have pulled off a masterstroke by securing an €11 million (£9.5m/$13m) option to buy the former Spain international at the end of his loan spell in the principality.  

Getty Images SportLOSER: Harry Kane's critics

claimed over the weekend that Barcelona are eyeing up Harry Kane as a possible replacement for Robert Lewandowski – which, on the face of it, appears pretty nonsensical. Why would Barca even consider replacing a 37-year-old forward with a player that turns 33 next summer?

On the other hand, Kane is showing zero signs of slowing down and is actually enjoying one of the more productive periods of his career.

After netting twice in Bayern Munich's Champions League opener against Chelsea on Wednesday, the England international went one better at the weekend, hitting a hat-trick in a 4-1 rout of Hoffenheim at the PreZero Arena.

Consequently, Kane has a frankly ridiculous eight goals in just four Bundesliga matches so far this season and 13 in seven in all competitions, which is why some German journalists are now publicly apologising for previously arguing that Bayern had overpaid for the forward – and why the reports emanating out of Spain don't actually feel that far-fetched! 

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AFPWINNER: Jose Mourinho

Things have worked out pretty well for Jose Mourinho. Just over three weeks after Bruno Lage’s Benfica effectively cost the Portuguese his job at Fenerbahce, 'The Special One' returned to Lisbon 25 years after starting his illustrious coaching career with The Eagles.

Although it's never been a good idea to try to predict what Mourinho might do – or say – next, it seems likely that his second spell in Lisbon will definitely last longer than his first (nine games) because he believes that Benfica – unlike Fenerbahce – are on his "level".

"I came to coach a big club, I came to coach a giant," he said after leading the two-time European Cup winners to a 3-0 win over AVS on Saturday night. "I've been with giants, Real Madrid, Inter, Manchester, Roma – not a giant in terms of winning titles, but a giant from a social point of view.

“So, I've been at big clubs and now I had the opportunity to come and coach a giant, and that's what brought me here.”

Deep down, maybe even Mourinho knows that he’s lucky to have landed such a top job after flopping at Fenerbahce but it’s kind of irrelevant now.

All that matters is that he’s back at one of Europe’s prestigious clubs – and back in the Champions League, too. Truth be told, we’re already counting down the days until his upcoming return to Stamford Bridge. The pre-match press conference alone should be gold!

The former USMNT striker highlighted the significance of the national team's victory over Japan, noting signs of pressure on the coach

Victory could be turning point in Pochettino's USMNT tenureGomez says there were signs of pressure affecting the manager Tactical approach finally maximized player strengthsGetty Images SportWHAT HAPPENED

Former USMNT and MLS striker Herculez Gomez said U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino is already showing signs of strain despite the United States’ 2-0 win over Japan. Gomez argued that while the coach is known for his calm, collected demeanor, he showed he was under pressure based on his actions and comments to the media.

“Massive,” Gomez said on the when asked how big this win was for Pochettino. “First time in Mauricio Pochettino’s tenure we can see the pressure getting to him. He could say, ‘It's not getting to me’, he can say ‘It doesn't bother me,' but he was taking – I would say not shots – but he felt defensive. And he's doing his front of the U.S press. I could only imagine what he's faced in Paris, what he's faced in England, what he has faced in other places he's been in, like La Liga – this should be nothing.

"But he felt slightly, he felt like he had to be a little bit more defensive. And the only thing that can cure the ails of the fan base, the only way to ensure the worries of certain pundits is winning."

Despite Pochettino's attempts to downplay the significance of criticism, Gomez said that the manager's tactical change showed his awareness of the criticism and need for improved results.

“So he did what he needed to do," he said. "I thought it was very intelligent of the coaching staff to see the players they had at their disposal and say, 'You know what, we've got to do what we can with what we have. ’ They changed the formation, 3-4-2-1, more catered to the players and how they play at their club teams… He played to the player's strengths."

AdvertisementWHAT GOMEZ SAID

The ESPN FC broadcaster pointed out that the doubts surrounding Pochettino's leadership were well-founded, highlighting the manager's decision to field 15 different starting lineups within a single year. 

“This [win] was very much needed for the coaching staff,” Gomez added. “This was fresh air. They were being doubted, and I think for good reason… In October, it’ll be one full year [under Pochettino's leadership]. So there were these doubts, there were these cracks that people were starting to see. It gives a relief to the coaching staff.”

Despite acknowledging the importance of the result, Gomez made it clear that his fundamental concerns about Pochettino's suitability for the position remained unresolved. Gomez stressed that the coach has yet to field what he considers an optimal squad, often missing key pieces even when the decisions were his own.

“Because you don’t have a Messi, you have to be the equal to the sum of the parts," he said. "And he didn’t have those parts, so I wanna give him the benefit of the doubt, but he’s not helped his cause. Now this [win] is going to help.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The USMNT beat Japan 2-0 with goals from Alejandro Zendejas and Folarin Balogun to win their first game in seven tries against a team inside the FIFA top 30 rankings during Pochettino's tenure.

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Getty Images SportWHAT’S NEXT?

Following their win over Japan, Pochettino and the USMNT will regroup in October against Ecuador and Australia.

As Alexander Isak edges closer to the exit door, Newcastle United are beginning to map out life without their talismanic striker.

The Swede’s choice to skip Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Southeast Asia and instead train at former club Real Sociedad has only heightened speculation about his future.

While Liverpool lodged a bid to secure his signature, the Magpies are already working on contingency plans. In Benjamin Šeško, Newcastle believe they have identified an heir to Isak’s throne.

A towering presence at 1.94m, the 22-year-old is equally capable of leading the line with intelligence and intensity.

Despite the club’s willingness to meet RB Leipzig’s valuation, the Slovenian appears to prefer a move to Manchester United – even in the absence of European football.

This has left the door open for alternatives.

One name is emerging as a serious contender – a raw but high-ceilinged talent who combines power, pace and composure in front of goal.

Newcastle looking at Europe's next powerhouse forward

According to TEAMTalk, Newcastle and Aston Villa are among five Premier League clubs interested in Porto striker Samu Aghehowa.

The 21-year-old Spanish-Nigerian powerhouse has taken Europe by storm since joining Porto from Atlético Madrid for around £15m last summer.

Aghehowa has scored 27 goals in 45 games, including six in the Europa League and two against Manchester United, evidence of his ability to shine on the biggest stage.

As per the report, sources close to the player suggest he is keen on a move to the Premier League, drawn by its competitiveness and global appeal. However, Porto’s valuation, a steep £70 million, partly due to Atlético Madrid’s 50% sell-on clause, may complicate matters.

Nevertheless, it’s believed a lower fee could be negotiated, with £50m-£60m having been suggested.

Why Samu Aghehowa Might Be the Next Šeško — Or Better

Standing at 1.93m, Aghehowa fits the same physical profile as Šeško. Indeed, analyst Ben Mattinson described Omorodion as an “absolute powerhouse”, while also noting that he is the “real deal”.

Crucially, he’s already proven capable of shouldering a club’s attacking burden, an attractive quality for both Newcastle and Villa, especially with the latter facing uncertainty over Ollie Watkins’ future.

Should Newcastle miss out on Šeško, Aghehowa represents a similarly ambitious gamble, albeit one with a potentially higher ceiling.

In truth, comparisons between the pair are as inevitable as both are towering, physically dominant forwards.

What’s more, both are under the age of 23 and represent the archetype of the modern target man: capable of bullying defenders whilst also possessing the technique to play in dynamic, high-tempo systems.

According to data from FBref, his non-penalty expected goals (npxG) stood at 8.4, with 11 goals scored in open play, and he averaged 2.5 shots per 90 minutes. But as promising as those numbers are, Aghehowa’s hold up well in comparison.

In the Liga Portugal, the Porto man scored 19 league goals and added three assists. Across all competitions, he notched 27.

The same data shows he ranks in the 75th percentile for non-penalty xG per 90 (0.43) and the 86th percentile for total shots per 90 (3.10).

In terms of pass completion, he’s even more efficient than Šeško, ranking in the 96th percentile (77.8%), demonstrating his ability to play quick link-up football.

Additionally, the former Atleti starlet is an active presence in the box.

He ranks in the 86th percentile for touches in the attacking penalty area (5.45), and, surprisingly for a striker, in the 73rd percentile for interceptions – testament to his defensive work rate.

Šeško, for all his finishing prowess, has a more passive off-ball profile. With Isak increasingly detached, training independently at Real Sociedad and unlikely to return without resolution, Newcastle’s hierarchy must make a call.

Wait for a Šeško U-turn, or invest in the next rising star before the market catches up?

Aghehowa might not be a household name yet, but neither was Haaland before his Salzburg breakout, nor Šeško before Leipzig.

The traits are all there: size, speed, hunger, and a fearless eye for goal. In the end, signing him wouldn’t just be a response to Isak’s departure, it could be a defining statement of ambition for the years ahead.

Related Gordon's new Isak: Newcastle leading the race for £50m Sesko alternative

Newcastle are faced with the unenviable position of finding an Isak replacement this summer.

Posts ByAngus Sinclair Aug 1, 2025

واصل برشلونة نتائجه الرائعة في الدوري الإسباني بعد الفوز ضد خيتافي بثلاثية نظيفة خلال اللقاء الذي جمع بين الفريقين على ملعب يوهان كرويف في الجولة الخامسة من الليجا.

وجاءت أهداف برشلونة عن طريق فيران توريس الذي سجل ثنائية في الدقائق 15 و 34، وأحرز داني أولمو الهدف الثالث في الدقيقة 62.

سجل فيران توريس هدفه الأول بعد تمريرة من زميله داني أولمو بالكعب، حيث وصلت الكرة إلى مواطنه، ليهز شباك الضيوف.

وتمكن اللاعب نفسه، فيران توريس، من تسجيل الهدف الثاني له ولكتيبة هانز فليك بعد هجمة مرتدة انتهت بتمريرة من رافينها، الذي مرر الكرة إلى الإسباني، ولم يتردد كثيراً ليسجل الثاني.

في حين وضع داني أولمو بصمته على الهدف الثالث الذي سجله بعد تمريرة من ماركوس راشفورد.

وشهد اللقاء استحواذ وخطورة كاملة من جانب برشلونة الذي سيطر على المباراة طولاً وعرضاً، ونجح في تسجيل ثلاث أهداف في المباراة والخروج بشباك نظيفة أيضاً.

ودخل هانز فليك لقاء اليوم بتشكيل مكون من: خوان جارسيا، كوندي، جارسيا، كريستينسن، مارتن، دي يونج، بيدري، داني أولمو، فيران توريس، ليفاندوفسكي، رافينها.

بهذا الفوز يرتفع رصيد برشلونة للنقطة 13 في المركز الثاني خلال 5 مباريات، ويتجمد رصيد خيتافي عند النقطة التاسعة في المركز الثامن. أهداف مباراة برشلونة وخيتافي في الدوري الإسباني

تابعنا معكم مباراة برشلونة وخيتافي لحظة بلحظة في الدوري الإسباني…. الشوط الأول

 انطلاق الشوط الأول

د1: مدافع فياريال يبعد كرة إلى رمية تماس من إريك جارسيا إلى روبرت ليفاندوفسكي

 د2: حكم المباراة يحتسب ركلة حرة مباشرة بعد تدخل قوي من لاعب فياريال على كوندي ويحصل ماريو مارتن لاعب الفريق الضيف على بطاقة صفراء

د3: برشلونة ينفذ الركلة الحرة المباشرة بجملة متفق عليها وتمريرة من بيدري إلى رافينها الذي سدد الكرة بعيداً بكثير عن مرمى خيتافي

د5: ضغط قوي من خيتافي على دفاع برشلونة

د6: مرور رائع من رافينها من الجهة اليمنى ويتدخل مدافع آخر من فياريال وتصطدم عرضية رافينها بقدمه وتخرج إلى ضربة مرمى لفياريال

د7: فرصة خطيرة من برشلونة ولكن تسديدة فيران توريس داخل منطقة الجزاء بعد تلقيه تمريرة من جيرارد مارتن تصطدم بمدافع فياريال

د10: خطأ على فرينكي دي يونج لاعب برشلونة ضد ليزو لاعب فياريال في وسط الملعب

د11: خطأ على لاعب فياريال ضد داني أولمو لاعب برشلونة في وسط الملعب

د13: تناقل للكرات بين لاعبي برشلونة وتأتي الكرة لبيدري الذي يمرر لفيران توريس الخالي من الرقابة ولكن لاعب فياريال يبعد الكرة لركلة ركنية لبرشلونة

د14: جوووووووووووووووووووووووووول برشلونة بعد كرة رائعة من رافينها إلى أولمو الذي يصنع كرة بالكعب ومن اللمسة الأولى يسدد فيران توريس في مرمي خيتافي معلناً تسجيل الهدف الأول هدف فيران توريس الأول أمام خيتافي

⚽️ توريس يوقع على الهدف الأول لبرشلونة بعد تمريرة ساحرة من أولمو #الدوري_الإسباني | #برشلونة_خيتافي pic.twitter.com/mcWoqPJU24 — beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS) September 21, 2025

د17: ضربة مرمى لبرشلونة

19: هدوء من جانب برشلونة واستحواذ على الكرة

د22: رمية تماس لفياريال

د24: خطأ من رافينها على لاعب فياريال واعتراض قوي من مدرب فياريال مطالباً الحكم باحتساب بطاقة صفراء

د25: خطأ من داني أولمو على لاعب فياريال في وسط الملعب

د26: فرصة خطيرة لبرشلونة من عرضية جيرارد مارتن ولكن ظهير فياريال يشتت الكرة بعيداً عن منطقة الجزاء ويعود الاستحواذ للبارسا

د27: بيدري يصنع كرة على طبق من دهب ولكنها تمر من أمام ليفاندوفسكي في منطقة جزاء خيتافي

د30: مرور أول نصف ساعة وبرشلونة متقدم بهدف نظيف

د31: خطأ من لاعب فياريال على رافينها

د32: بطاقة صفراء على رافينها بسبب تأخير تنفيذ الركلة الحرة وهانز فليك يعترض

د34: جووووووووووووووووووووووووووووووووووول الهدف الثاني لبرشلونة من فيران توريس بصناعة وتمريرة رائعة من البرازيلي رافينها هدف فيران توريس الثاني أمام خيتافي

د37: رمية تماس لبرشلونة بعد ضغط من فياريال لتقليص الفارق

د38: ماركوس راشفورد ينال تصفيق جماهير برشلونة بعد قيامه لإجراء عمليات الإحماء

 د39: تمريرة قوية من كوندي إلى فيران توريس تذهب لرمية تماس لخيتافي

د40: فرصتين متتاليتين عن طريق برشلونة لتسجيل الهدف الثالث حيث يتصدى سوريا لتسديدة ليفاندوفسكي ثم تعود إلى أولمو الذي يسدد كرة بعيدة عن المرمى

 د42: فرصة تسجيل الهاتريك لفيران توريس تضيع بعد صناعة رائعة من بيدري ليستقبلها فيران توريس ويسدد بقوة في القائم

د43: بطاقة صفراء على لاعب منتخب توجو وفياريال دجيني بعد تدخل قوي على كوندي ظهير برشلونة

د44: بطاقة صفراء على خوسيه بوردالاس مدرب خيتافي لاعتراضه على إنذار لاعبه دجيني

 د45: دقيقتين وقت بدل ضائع

د46: توتر كبيرة في ملعب يوهان كرويف بسبب خشونة زائدة من لاعبي فياريال وتدخل آخر على كوندي

 صافرة الحكم ونهاية أحداث الشوط الأول في ملعب يوهان كرويف بداية الشوط الثاني

د45: خروج رافينها ودخول ماركوس راشفورد

د47: خطأ جديد من لاعب فياريال على كوندي

د48: فرصة خطيرة بعد جملة ثلاثية من لاعبي فياريال ويسدد لويس ميا لاعب فياريال وتمر تسديدته بجانب القائم

 د50: ضربة ركنية لفياريال ويتصدى خوان جارسيا لرأسية لاعب فياريال

د51: تسلل على ليفاندوفسكي بعد عرضية من جيرارد مارتن

د53: بطاقة صفراء على كريستينسن لاعب برشلونة بعد تدخل قوي على لاعب فياريال ويحتسب الحكم ركلة حرة من الناحية اليمنى للفريق الضيف

د55: لاعب فياريال يتدخل ليبعد كرة من أمام راشفورد إلى رمية تماس لبرشلونة

د56: رمية تماس لفياريال بعد تدخل رائع من جيرارد مارتن لاعب برشلونة

د58: تدخل قوي على ليفاندوفسكي مهاجم برشلونة من المدافع المغربي ابكار ويحصل على بطاقة صفراء

د59: أولمو يسدد من ركلة حرة مباشرة لبرشلونة ولكن تسديدته تمر فوق القائم

د60: مرور أول ربع ساعة وفليك يجري تغييرين لبرشلونة بدخول فيرمين لوبيز بدلاً من فيران توريس وكاسادو بدلاً من فرينكي دي يونج

 د62: جووووووووووووووووووووووووووووووووووووووول داني أولمو يسجل الثالث لبرشلونة بعد تمريرة رائعة من كاسادو في البداية وصناعة من الإنجليزي ماركوس راشفورد بعد أن مرت الكرة من ليفاندوفسكي داخل منطقة الجزاء لتجد أولمو الذي يسكنها في الشباك فارغة هدف داني أولمو أمام خيتافي

⚽️🤩 داني أولمو يسجل الهدف الثالث لبرشلونة بعد مجهود مميز من راشفورد #الدوري_الإسباني | #برشلونة_خيتافي pic.twitter.com/Aew5EZVq69 — beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS) September 21, 2025

 د63: طرد مساعد مدرب خيتافي للاعتراض

د66: رمية تماس لفياريال بعد أن بعدت الكرة على كوندي

 د67: مجهود فردي رائع من راشفورد من الناحية اليمنى وتسديدة قوية يتصدى لها سوريا حارس خيتافي

د68: خطأ من لاعب فياريال على داني أولمو خارج منطقة الجزاء

 د69: عرضية أولمو تصطدم في حائط فياريال

د70: تغيير لفياريال دخول كوبا وخروج أرامباري

 د71: مجهود فردي رائع من فيرمين لوبيز من الناحية اليسرى لبرشلونة ويسدد من زاوية صعبة لكنها تخطأ الشباك

د74: تغيير لبرشلونة دخول روني باردجي وخروج بيدري الذي ينال تحية كبيرة وتصفيق قوي من جماهير برشلونة

د76: رمية تماس لبرشلونة يحصل عليها ماركوس راشفورد

د78: برشلونة يستحوذ على الكرة ويحاول تسجيل الهدف الرابع

د80: تغيير لفياريال دخول أليكس سانكريس وخروج ليزو

 د81: ضغط من برشلونة ورمية تماس ينفذها كوندي

د82: تغيير لبرشلونة دخول أراوخو وخروج جيرارد مارتن

د84: ضربة ركنية لبرشلونة يحصل عليها ماركوس راشفورد

د85: دخول قوي من فيرمين لوبيز ليحتسب الحكم خطأ لصالح مدافع فياريال

د86: خوان جارسيا يتصدي لفرصة هدف محقق من فياريال داخل منطقة الجزاء

د90: حكم اللقاء يحتسب ثلاث دقائق وقت بدل ضائع

د91: تمريرات بين أقدام لاعبي برشلونة لإضاعة الوقت

د92: فرصة خطيرة من برشلونة وتذهب الكرة إلى روني باردجي الذي يسدد الكرة في يد حارس مرمى فياريال سوريا

 حكم اللقاء يطلق صافرة نهاية الشوط الثاني والمباراة بفوز برشلونة بثلاثية نظيفة

Arsenal supporters are desperate to see new faces come through the door this summer and Fabrizio Romano has delivered an update on their latest pursuit.

Arsenal look to find title-winning formula in transfer window

The Gunners have plenty to be optimistic about heading into the new season as they finally look to claim the Premier League title for the first time in over 20 years.

However, Sporting Clube de Portugal president Frederico Varandas has hit out at Arsenal and Manchester United regarding the bidding process for star striker Viktor Gyokeres, making his feelings clear on the way negotiations will be handled.

He stated: “I see the agent in the press releasing information. I want to make one thing clear: Sporting has common sense and keeps its word. Gyokeres scored 63 goals and 10 assists. Fantastic performance. Certainly one of the best players to have ever stepped onto Portuguese turf. And Sporting will not demand the clause.

“Now, blackmail and insults, Sporting will not accept. One thing is certain: Sporting will not accept 60 million plus 10. As of today, Sporting has not received any proposal for Gyokeres.”

Of course, Gyokeres isn’t the only target Mikel Arteta has identified to bring to North London; the Gunners’ pursuit of RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko is still very much on the agenda.

Arsenal set to bid for £40m star who has heart set on move to Emirates

The Gunners could land a long-term target…

By
Sean Markus Clifford

Jun 16, 2025

Real Madrid star Rodrygo is also being pursued by the Gunners, albeit bringing the Brazilian to the club would be a tall order in light of the financial details needed to make that happen.

The La Liga giants have been a happy hunting ground for Arsenal in the past. Nevertheless, Arteta may need to concede defeat for another target following recent reports.

Romano: Arsenal target Brahim Diaz set to pen new Real Madrid terms

Recently, reports in Spain suggested that Arsenal were willing to offer roughly £42.6 million to sign Brahim Diaz from Real Madrid having made an approach to tempt the Morocco international to the English capital.

However, despite being seen as a cheaper alternative to Rodrygo, Romano has now confirmed that he is set to sign a new deal at the Santiago Bernabéu, quashing any rumours of a switch to North London.

Diaz has already said ‘yes’ to new terms in Madrid, and finding an agreement is set to be nothing more than a formality, which may leave one or two Gunners fans feeling frustrated.

The man himself registered six goals and seven assists in 52 appearances across all competitions last term and is now involved with Real Madrid at the Club World Cup, so it may have taken Arsenal a while to get their hands on him anyway.

Manchester United’s need for reinforcements is there for all to see after the club registered a 15th-place finish in the Premier League during the 2024/25 campaign.

Ruben Amorim was unable to work his magic with the current crop of players at his disposal after taking the reins from Erik ten Hag back in November.

However, this summer presents the 40-year-old with a major opportunity to make the changes he desires to try and push the club back up the standings next time around.

He’s already completed the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers, whilst releasing Jonny Evans, Christian Eriksen and Victor Lindelof to help free up funds on the wage bill.

It’s likely that numerous players will also be sacrificed to help try and raise additional money to use in the market, with numerous players already linked with a move from Old Trafford.

The latest on players who could leave United this summer

Over the last couple of days, winger Alejandro Garnacho has been a man in demand after it was confirmed that the Argentine would be allowed to depart the Red Devils this summer.

The 20-year-old registered 11 goals and 10 assists across all competitions, but attitude issues have led to links with fellow Premier League outfits Chelsea and Arsenal, with Bayer Leverkusen also interested.

However, he may not be alone in leaving the club this summer, with Joshua Zirkzee another talent who could be sacrificed, according to Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport.

They claim that they are willing to offer the Dutch international in a deal to land Napoli talisman Victor Osimhen this summer, less than 12 months after his £34m move from Serie A side Bologna.

It also confirms that the board have been disappointed by his lack of impact this season, netting just seven times in his 49 appearances across all competitions – an average of one goal every seven games.

Why United’s £105k-p/w star could be the next McTominay

Scottish international Scott McTominay left United last summer in a switch to join Napoli for just £25m, bringing his 22-year spell at Old Trafford to a disappointing end.

He registered over 250 appearances for the Red Devils, but was offloaded to raise funds for the rebuild under former boss Ten Hag – similar to the situation which Amorim faces this summer.

However, his switch across Europe has been a blessing in disguise, registering 13 goals and four assists, subsequently playing a pivotal role in Antonio Conte’s side’s ability to claim the league title in 2024/25.

Such form and achievements saw the 28-year-old named the Serie A’s Most Valuable Player for last campaign – further indicating how much of an error the club made in allowing him to depart Old Trafford.

However, the hierarchy must bear such a transfer in mind this summer with Zirkzee, potentially seeing another repeat of McTominay’s success unfold right in front of their very eyes.

The 24-year-old has certainly failed to live up to the hype, as seen by his measly goalscoring tally, but his underlying figures prove there is a player in there, needing to be given more time to thrive in England.

Zirkzee, who earns £105k-per-week in Manchester, has registered 39% of his efforts on target, with an xG of 4.83 – meaning he’s been unlucky not to score more than he has throughout his debut year in the Premier League.

Joshua Zirkzee’s stats for United in the PL (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)	Tally
Games played	32
Goals scored	3
Shot on target accuracy	39%
Expected goals (xG)	4.83
Successful dribbles	1.9
Aerials won	1.5
Shots taken	1.8
Stats via FotMob

He’s also completed 1.9 successful dribbles per 90, whilst also winning 1.5 aerial battles per 90 – having the all-round skillset to hand Amorim with an impressive option in 2025/26.

The former Bayern Munich star has also operated in the number 10 role at times this season, having the versatility to thrive in numerous positions, something which could be crucial given the options already moving to Old Trafford in the near future.

It would be a harsh decision to allow the forward to depart the club this window, needing to hand him another 12 months at least to demonstrate the talent he possesses.

Given the success of former United players in Italy, it would be no surprise to see Zirkzee follow in McTominay’s footsteps should he depart, with their loss potentially being someone else’s gain next campaign.

Amorim's answer to Cherki: Man Utd to make huge bid for "phenomenal" star

Manchester United could be about to land a star who could be their Rayan Cherki.

By
Ethan Lamb

Jun 10, 2025

Burnley are now showing interest in signing a “superb” £10m defender, who is keen on a move to the Premier League in the summer, according to a report.

Clarets set to strengthen after promotion

The Clarets have made Championship history this season, becoming the first-ever side to reach the 100-point mark twice, sealing a return to the Premier League at the first attempt in the process.

The highest points tallies in Championship history

Leeds and Burnley recently made second-tier history.

By
Charlie Smith

May 17, 2025

Scott Parker will, of course, be delighted to have sealed promotion to the top flight, but the 44-year-old will be well-aware that his most difficult task awaits, having been sacked by AFC Bournemouth in August 2022 following a 9-0 battering against Liverpool.

Ipswich Town, Leicester City and Southampton being relegated this season also proved that it has not gotten any easier to avoid the drop after going up from the Championship, so Parker will need to improve his squad this summer.

Despite maintaining a stellar defensive record last term, transfer expert Graeme Bailey has now told the Boot Room that Burnley are looking to upgrade their defence in the upcoming window, having joined the race for Union Berlin right-back Josip Juranovic.

Juranovic, who joined Union Berlin from Celtic for £10m in 2023, is attracting the attention of several English clubs, with Fulham, West Ham United and Leeds United also in the frame, and he would be keen on a move to the Premier League.

As such, the Clarets should stand a good chance of signing the versatile defender, who is of great appeal to the interested clubs due to his versatility, having proven himself at left-back for Union Berlin during the 2024-25 campaign.

"Superb" Juranovic has proven himself at the top level

The former Celtic man may be yet to prove himself in the Premier League, but he has 11 Champions League appearances to his name, while also catching the eye with some impressive performances for his country at the 2022 World Cup.

Indeed, the Croatian received high praise from Jurgen Klinsmann during the quarter-final against Brazil, with the former Tottenham Hotspur man saying: “He is basically telling Vinicius Jnr, ‘I’m in charge, I’m the boss here.”

Alex Scott also hailed the defender for a “quality” first-half display, and Croatia went on to win the game on penalties, following a number of important defensive contributions from the now Union Berlin man.

Juranovic vs Vinicius	Defensive actions
Duels (won)	5 (5)
Clearances	4
Tackles	4
Interceptions	1

The Croatia international, who has been lauded as “superb” by former teammate Joe Hart, has since gone on to establish himself as an important player for Union Berlin when fit, making 62 appearances for the German side.

The only concern over the signing of Juranovic is likely to be his injury record, having been limited to just 17 Bundesliga appearances last season due to a number of setbacks, but his experience at the top level means he could still be a solid signing for Burnley.

There is no denying it: this season has been a disaster for Tottenham Hotspur.

Ange Postecoglou can end it spectacularly by winning the Europa League, but when it comes to the Premier League, things could not have gone much worse.

In fact, had it not been for some genuinely terrible form from the newly promoted sides, there might have been a real discussion around possible relegation at points, as so far, the North Londoners have lost a staggering 19 games in the league.

It’s been so poor that it seems as if Postecoglou will be on the way out regardless of what happens in Europe next, which has, in turn, seen a plethora of names linked with the job, including old boss Mauricio Pochettino and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola.

However, another name has also been linked with the job, someone who could make the board forget about the rest.

Manager Focus

Who are the greatest coaches in the land? Football FanCast’s Manager Focus series aims to reveal all.

Why Spurs would want Poch or Iraola

So, before getting to the manager in question, it’s worth looking at why the North Londoners might want to hire Pochettino or Iraola.

When it comes to the former, there are several reasons at play, but they all come back to one thing: familiarity.

Since leaving the club, it would be fair to say that the Argentine has not enhanced his reputation.

First came an unspectacular stint at Paris Saint-Germain, then a dire season with Chelsea and, as things stand, a disappointing spell in charge of the USMNT.

However, during his time in N17, he helped build a squad almost from the ground up, turned them into serious Premier League and Champions League contenders, and, just as importantly, formed a genuine connection with the fans.

Daniel Levy and Co would want to bring him back because they know that Pochettino can deliver at the club because he has done it before.

Iraola, on the other hand, does not have that familiarity with the club or fans, but he has the wind in his sails and is arguably one of the most exciting up-and-coming managers in the league.

For example, he took charge of a Cherries side that looked destined for relegation last year and has turned them into European hopefuls this season, all while losing their talismanic striker to the Lilywhites in the summer.

Games (All Comps)

83

Wins

33

Draws

20

Losses

30

Points per Game

1.43

Moreover, he helped to transform Rayo Vallecano in Spain before coming to England, so he has proven himself in more than one dugout.

With all that said, another manager hasn’t been talked about as much, but could be just the man Tottenham needs.

The Manager to make Spurs forget Poch & Iraola

According to reports from Germany earlier this month, as relayed by GIVEMESPORT, Tottenham have inquired about Borussia Dortmund’s Niko Kovač.

The Croatian coach may not be all that familiar to fans of English football, but for fans of the Bundesliga, he’s a well-known and well-respected quantity.

For example, over the last seven years, he has managed Eintracht Frankfurt, VfL Wolfsburg, Bayern Munich and most currently Dortmund – while spending a year and a half with AS Monaco.

Dortmund

17

1,76

Wolfsburg

66

1.30

Monaco

74

1.95

Bayern

65

2.26

Frankfurt

91

1.54

Described as “one of the best coaches in Europe” by football writer Sebastien C, the 53-year-old is generally regarded as a coach who likes his teams to play vertically, getting the ball forward quickly when possible, but also something of a pragmatist who likes his sides to be defensively sound.

This could see him win over the Tottenham faithful early on, as he wouldn’t be as gung-ho as Postecoglou, but he wouldn’t want to shut up shop as much as Antonio Conte, for example.

Moreover, he’s shown a willingness to switch up his formation to suit his players in the past and is currently employing a 4-2-3-1 at Signal Iduna Park.

This is a set-up that could work wonders in North London as well, with extra cover in front of the club’s frequently shaky backline.

Finally, he’d join the club as a proven winner, having picked up the German Cup with Frankfurt and then winning the Cup and League double with Bayern a year later, in 2019.

Ultimately, Kovac might not be the first name that comes to fans’ minds when thinking of Spurs’ next manager, but thanks to his moderate pragmatism and historical successes in the dugout, he should be.

Uh oh: Ange hints £190k-a-week Spurs star could miss Bodo/Glimt with injury

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ByDominic Lund Apr 28, 2025

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has held talks with the agents of a “dream” target for manager Mikel Arteta, and the Gunners know exactly what is required to convince the player to make a move to the Emirates Stadium.

Andrea Berta set for "big" first summer at Arsenal

The Italian was officially announced as Arsenal’s new director in late March, with Arteta since tipping Berta to have a “big” first summer transfer window at N5.

£200k-per-week Arsenal star "looking" to quit despite Real Madrid "masterclass"

He produced a truly excellent display against Los Blancos.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 9, 2025

Arteta candidly expressed his excitement over Berta’s appointment, and the 53-year-old could even orchestrate a summer spend of up to £300 million on seven key signings, according to GiveMeSport.

Brentford (home)

April 12th

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

April 23rd

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

The north Londoners are plotting serious changes to Arteta’s squad across the board, defensively, in midfield and further forward, with Berta expected to target a new back-up keeper, full-back, midfielders, a left-winger, an alternative to Bukayo Saka and, of course, a goalscoring number nine (GMS).

The wide positions will be a key area of improvement, with uncertainty surrounding the long-term future of Leandro Trossard as the Belgian begins to enter the final 12 months of his contract.

Saka was a dear miss when the England star was sidelined through injury, which undoubtedly played a role in Arsenal falling miles behind Liverpool in the Premier League title race, and Arsenal could move to bring in a proven back-up.

According to credible recent reports, that man could be Athletic Bilbao starlet Nico Williams, who’s capable of playing both on the right and on the left. Arsenal have also held very recent talks with Bayern Munich star Leroy Sane over signing as a free agent, but as things stand, the German favours remaining under Vincent Kompany.

With a move for Sane looking less likely, and Williams expected to push for a Bilbao exit, it is believed that Berta reached out for talks with the 22-year-old’s representatives last week.

The Spain international’s contract contains a tempting £48 million release clause, but the real issue will lie in his wages.

Nico Williams makes £250k-per-week demand to join Arsenal

Following talks with Berta last week, it has now been revealed by GiveMeSport that Williams will demand a salary of around £250,000-per-week to join Arsenal or any other interested club, which would make him the club’s third-highest earner behind just Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz.

Arsenal’s wage bill is currently massive, and Berta will be eager to avoid skyrocketing it even further amid PSR and FFP regulations.

That being said, Williams is definitely worth the effort to prise away from Bilbao, if Arsenal can reach a compromise on his pay packet expectations. He bagged 19 assists in all competitions last term and played a starring role in Spain’s triumph at Euro 2024, leaving little surprise that GMS have also reported the winger is a “dream” target for Arteta.

“Nico is unique, wonderful,” said José Mourinho recently.

“During the European Championship, people were focused on Lamine Yamal, who is obviously another wonderful kid, but personally, I prefer Nico. He’s a fantastic player, and you can’t think that a Turkish club could sign him. I hope he ends up with Real Madrid.”

MatériaMais Notícias

O Botafogo de Artur Jorge está voando na temporada e se tem um responsável por fazer a equipe chegar nesse patamar, o nome dele é Júnior Santos. Enquanto a equipe vivia a turbulência da não classificação para as semifinais do campeonato carioca e a demissão de Tiago Nunes que deixou a classificação para a fase de grupos da Libertadores ameaçada, foi a regularidade e o brilho do atacante que garantiram a tranquilidade.

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A boa do Lance! Betting: vamos dobrar seu primeiro depósito, até R$200! Basta abrir sua conta e tá na mão!

O Lance! Betting tem apostas a longo prazo para a Seleção Brasileira em 2024! Vem conferir!

A teporada de Júnior Santos é irretocável até aqui. O atacante é o jogador com maior número de participações em gols do futebol brasileiro em 2024. São 16 gols marcados e quatro assistências distribúidas, somando ao todo 20 colaborações em gols para o Botafogo. O jogador é o artilheiro da atual edição da Copa Libertadores com nove gols, além de ter assumido o posto de maior artilheiro da história do Botafogo na competição.

A grande temporada de Júnior Santos atraiu o interesse de outros clubes do futebol brasileiro. Ainda no início do ano, o atacante recebeu uma sondagem do Palmeiras, mas o próprio Textor, dono do Botafogo rechaçou qualquer negocio.

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Já o mais recente interesse veio de Minas Gerais. O Cruzeiro apresentou uma proposta no valor de cinco milhões de euros (28 milhões de reais), que também foi recusada pelo clube alvinegro.

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Artur JorgeBotafogoCruzeiroFutebol BrasileiroJohn TextorJúnior SantosLibertadoresLibertadores 2024PalmeirasSAF