He was one of five remaining voting members on the committee after Wahab and Razzak were sacked in July

Danyal Rasool29-Sep-2024The restructured selection committee for the Pakistan men’s side has been pared down further, with Mohammad Yousuf announcing his resignation from the role. Yousuf, who was one of five remaining voting members on the committee, said in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that he was quitting for “personal reasons”.”Serving this incredible team has been a profound privilege, and I am proud to have contributed to the growth and success of Pakistan cricket,” Yousuf said. “I have immense faith in the talent and spirit of our players, and wish our team all the best as they continue to strive for greatness.”Shortly after, a PCB statement thanked Yousuf for his services, saying he had “voluntarily stepped down…to focus on other key responsibilities within the cricket board”. Yousuf remains a batting coach at the PCB’s National High Performance Centre.Related

PCB restructures selection committee by picking Aleem Dar, Aaqib, Azhar

Aamer Jamal returns for first Test against England

Wahab and Razzaq sacked from PCB selection committee

Comings and goings in Pakistan’s selectorial setup are not new but it has become especially volatile over the past few months. Wahab Riaz was appointed chief selector late last year, overseeing series defeats against Australia and New Zealand, and a dramatic row with Haris Rauf that saw the fast bowler’s central contract ripped up and then restored a few weeks later.In March, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced a new selection committee with seven members and no chief selector. But after Pakistan’s disastrous first-round exit at the T20 World Cup in June, Wahab and Abdul Razzaq were sacked by the PCB and not replaced, whittling the committee’s voting members down to the captains and coaches, and Asad Shafiq and Yousuf. Yousuf’s departure, with no word on whether he will be replaced, means Shafiq is the only voting member outside of the captains and coaches still part of the selection committee.The committee’s next task will involve the announcement of the squad for the remainder of Pakistan’s Test series against England, having made public the squad for the first Test in Multan, which begins on October 7.

Nottingham Forest are thought to be among the frontrunners to sign an “insane” £20 million-plus star who could replace the departed Anthony Elanga, according to a recent report.

Elanga sends Nottingham Forest a goodbye message

Newcastle United confirmed on Friday evening that they had completed the signing of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest. The Reds have sold the Sweden international to the Magpies in a deal worth £55 million after he scored six goals and recorded 11 assists during the 2024/25 Premier League season, as Forest secured a place back in European football.

Nottingham Forest bid to sign "rated" Brazilian attacker who Dortmund want

He’s out of contract in 2026.

3

By
Charlie Smith

Jul 12, 2025

After his transfer to Newcastle was completed, Elanga took to Instagram to send a goodbye message to Forest and their supporters. The winger described Forest as a “family” and said he will never forget walking out at the City Ground and feeling their energy.

Elanga wrote: “My Forest Family— it’s been real! From day one, the love has been crazy, and I felt it every time I stepped on that pitch. Grateful for the memories, the lessons, and the chance to wear that shirt with pride.

“Big love to my teammates, coaches & all the backroom staff, and to the City Ground faithful… You all made it special. I’ll never forget that feeling of walking out to your energy.

“Time for the next chapter. But this one? Forever in my heart. Thank you, Nottingham Forest. YOU REDSSS.”

Nottingham Forest among frontrunners to sign "insane" £20m+ star

Now Elanga has left, the Reds are wasting no time in finding a suitable replacement, as according to journalist Sebastien Vidal, Forest are progressing in their talks to sign Johan Bakayoko from PSV Eindhoven and are among the frontrunners.

It could cost the Premier League side well under half of what they sold Elanga for to sign Bakayoko, as the Dutch champions want just £22 million for the exciting winger.

However, since then, Sacha Tavolieri has added that it is Bayer Leverkusen who are in the lead for Bakayoko, who has agreed a five-year deal with the Bundesliga giants.

The 22-year-old, who has been dubbed an “insane” talent by football scout Ben Mattinson, has been at PSV since 2019. During that time, Bakayoko has won the Dutch title, the Dutch Cup, and the Dutch Super Cup twice, playing a key role in a lot of those campaigns.

Johan Bakayoko’s PSV stats
Apps	131
Goals	33
Assists	22

Bakayoko scored nine goals in 30 Eredivisie games last season, but given he is out of contract next summer, PSV may see this as the right time for him to move on. Bakayoko poses a similar threat to Elanga; he is a very quick and direct winger who has enormous ability and can also play in numerous positions across the frontline. The fact he may well be available for just £22 million means he could be a bargain purchase for the Reds, who are looking to go even better than last season.

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

Teenage prodigy Sam Konstas has announced himself on the big stage, striking a coming-of-age century for New South Wales against South Australia in Sydney.Konstas went to his maiden century on day one of the Blues’ Sheffield Shield season opener, hitting 152 as the hosts went to stumps on 297 for 7 against South Australia at Cricket Central.One of the leading lights of Australia’s U19 World Cup success last year, Konstas has long been touted as one of the country’s best young talents. And the opener showed why on Tuesday.The 19-year-old cover-drove superbly throughout his innings, and took to spinner Ben Manenti by hitting him down the ground for three sixes. He then brought up his century off his 163rd ball in the final over of the second session, nudging Brendan Doggett down to backward-square for a single. Konstas’ first Sheffield Shield ton came with Australia’s chief selector George Bailey in attendance. And while the right-hander is not yet in the conversation for the Test opening spot, good judges expect him to one day figure.Konstas made his Shield debut for NSW last summer, and amid glimpses of promise he brought up a maiden half-century in the last round against Queensland. But he looks a far more accomplished and confident batter this summer.He used his feet well to spin, and swept Nathan McSweeney for a big six before offering up his only chance with a missed stumping by Alex Carey.The youngster then brought up 150 by flat-batting a Lloyd Pope full toss over the legside. He was eventually caught at slip off the legspinner, when adjudged to have inside-edged a ball onto Carey’s legs before it was caught by McSweeney.”It was an amazing achievement. Obviously, it’s good to get my first one,” Konstas said. “I just have to be hungry for runs. And whatever teams I make, it’s a bonus.”With Shane Watson as his mentor, Konstas is a regular meditator before games and rushes to the wicket at the start of his innings.”A big thing [I learned from last summer] was my mental stuff, just keeping simple plans and how can I do it for longer?” Konstas said. “I try to be calm.”I did [meditate] this morning, and then I was trying to do that on the field. Just breathing and using it to switch me on and off.”It worked today.”Konstas’ runs came as wickets fell around him under heavy cloud cover and light drizzle. Moises Henriques (five) and Matthew Gilkes (10) both fell to loose shots outside off stump, while Nic Maddinson was caught charging Manenti on 12.Oliver Davies provided some brief fireworks before being bowled by Jordan Buckingham for 37, while Josh Philippe hit 56 in his first Shield game for the Blues.Philippe was eventually stumped off Pope, as the South Australia spinner finished the day with 3 for 61 and NSW suffered a collapse of 3 for 17. Umpires called off play shortly after due to bad light, infuriating visiting captain McSweeney given he had kept his spinners bowling.

Celtic have not made many headline-making signings during the summer transfer window so far, but the return of Kieran Tierney has been the exception.

The Scotland international has returned to Parkhead after six years down south with Arsenal, putting pen to paper on a permanent deal after his deal at The Emirates expired at the start of this month.

Tierney has played four times in pre-season for the Scottish Premiership champions and registered an assist for Liam Scales in the 4-0 win over Newcastle United.

Celtic supporters can get excited about the prospect of watching the attack-minded left-back bombing up and down the left flank to make an impact in the final third next season.

However, it remains to be seen who will be playing ahead of him on the left wing on a regular basis, whether Daizen Maeda starts on the left or plays through the middle as a number nine.

Celtic hope for bargain deal for new winger

The Scottish giants are in the market to add another left-sided attacker to their squad before the end of the summer transfer window, and are keen on a star who would love Tierney.

Transfer Focus

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

According to the Daily Record, Celtic are refusing to give up on their long-standing pursuit of Royal Antwerp attacker Michel-Ange Balikwisha.

The report claims that the Belgian forward is out of contract next summer and that the Hoops hope to land a ‘cut-price’ deal for him, as the ‘cash-strapped’ Pro League side are open to selling.

However, Royal Antwerp have been reluctant to budge on their £5m valuation of the winger and negotiations are seemingly ongoing to find a middle ground.

The Daily Record adds that Balikwisha has been identified as a top target for the Hoops, and it is now down to them to reach an agreement with the Belgian side.

Why Michel-Ange Balikwisha would love Kieran Tierney

If Celtic can strike a deal for the 24-year-old forward, Balikwisha and Tierney could form an exciting connection down the left flank for Brendan Rodgers next season.

As shown by the left-back’s assist tally of 37 from his first spell at the club, the Scotland international is a full-back who loves to go down the outside to deliver crosses and create goals by holding the width.

This means that Tierney is the perfect foil for a left-sided attacker who wants to cut inside onto their right foot, because his energetic runs down the flank can draw attention away from the winger by giving the opposition’s defender an extra player to think about.

Therefore, Balikwisha could take advantage of that potential overload, depending on how much the other team’s right winger wants to track back, to either play Tierney into the space out wide or to dribble inside with the ball to exploit the space that the left-back’s run could create.

Starts

27

12

xG

6.46

2.65

Goals

7

4

Big chances created

6

7

Key passes per game

1.5

1.6

Assists

5

3

Based on the Belgian dynamo’s form in the Pro League in the last two seasons, as shown in the table above, the £5m-rated star could make a fairly big impact in the final third by playing with the former Arsenal man.

Balikwisha, who was described as a “creative” talent by analyst Will Glavin, has the quality to deliver both goals and assists for his side from the left flank, as he outperformed his xG and averaged 1.5 key passes or more per game across two years in his home country.

These statistics show that coupling him with Tierney down the left will cause the opposition’s right-back plenty of problems, whilst also forcing the other team’s manager to have to pull players from other positions to come and double up on them, possibly creating overloads elsewhere on the park.

Celtic make contact to sign promising star who could be Ajer 2.0

Celtic have made an enquiry about a young star who could be a Kristoffer Ajer repeat for the club.

1 ByDan Emery Jul 22, 2025

Therefore, signing Balikwisha could be a move that makes a lot of sense for Celtic and one that could be very effective for their left side next season.

When it comes to picking the best Chelsea player of the last 20 years or so, fans are spoilt for choice.

Some will immediately think of Didier Drogba for his Champions League-winning goal, while others might point to Frank Lampard for his absurd record from the middle of the park.

You might even have some who lean towards John Terry for how he led the club through their greatest period ever.

However, for many, when it comes to pure skill and technique, it’s hard to look past Eden Hazard, and so fans should be excited about reports linking the club with a player who has shades of the Belgian about him.

Chelsea target ace with shades of Hazard

This summer has undoubtedly been one of Chelsea’s most positive in some time, as the club has not only achieved success on the pitch but also been busy and effective in the transfer market.

Transfer Focus

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

For example, the additions of Jamie Gittens, Joao Pedro and Liam Delap will make them far more dangerous going forward, and Jorrel Hato should make them more solid at the back.

And yet, even with all of these players in, and Xavi Simons likely to join them, the West Londoners are looking to do even more business and are targeting a player with Hazard-esque qualities.

At least that is according to a recent report from journalist Graeme Bailey, who has reaffirmed Chelsea’s intense interest in Alejandro Garnacho.

Baliey goes a step further, though, revealing that while other teams are interested in the Manchester United ace, the Blues have done the most work and are currently leading the race for his signature.

A price is not mentioned in the story, but other reports from this summer indicate that the final fee could reach around £40m, which might not be a bad price for someone as talented as Garnacho, especially not when he has shades of Hazard about him.

Garnacho's Hazard-esque qualities

Now, the first thing to stress here is that we are not claiming that Ganracho is as good as Hazard was during his time at Chelsea, nor would we even suggest he’s all that close at the moment.

However, there are some similarities between the pair, and it’s important to remember that the United ace is still only 21 years old, and therefore has at least five or six years until he should be hitting his peak.

With that said, one of the similarities that’s hard to ignore is how effective the Argentine is with the ball at his feet, which was most certainly one of the Belgian’s strengths – just look at a few of his highlights.

For example, according to FBref, the Madrid-born gem was in the top 6% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Premier League last seaosn for carries into the final third, the top 7% for progressive carries, the top 10 % for carries into the penalty area and the top 12% for progressive carrying distance, all per 90.

In other words, while the dynamic attacker can get the ball into dangerous areas with a pass, he’s even more effective at doing so with the ball at his feet and dribbling up the pitch.

Touches (Att Pen)

7.20

Top 6%

Carries into Final Third

2.95

Top 6%

Progressive Carries

5.77

Top 7%

Shots Total

3.44

Top 7%

Progressive Passes Rec

11.87

Top 8%

Total Carrying Distance

260.50

Top 8%

Shots on Target

1.19

Top 10%

Carries into Penalty Area

2.74

Top 10%

Tackles (Att 3rd)

0.53

Top 11%

Progressive Carrying Distance

132.81

Top 12%

On top of this key similarity, we have already seen that the eight-capped international “superstar,” as dubbed by journalist Liam Canning, is capable of the spectacular, much like the Blues ace was before him – that goal against Tottenham Hotspur always springs to mind.

The best example of the youngster doing something truly out of the ordinary was when he scored that sensational Puskas-winning goal against Everton at Goodison Park, in what might be the best bicycle kick we’ve ever seen, at least from a technique standpoint.

Finally, with a goal in the 2024 FA Cup final against Manchester City, we also know that the incredibly talented ace can thrive on the biggest of stages, just like Hazard did before him.

Ultimately, Garnacho has no match for the level the Belgian did before him, but he has shades of him in his game, and therefore, Chelsea should do what they can to bring him to Stamford Bridge this summer.

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Peter Handscomb struck a century but the total was comfortably hauled in by the home side

AAP06-Nov-2024

Mackenzie Harvey struck his maiden one-day hundred•Getty Images

Mackenzie Harvey and Daniel Drew scored magnificent One-Day Cup centuries while Spencer Johnson took four wickets to lead South Australia to an emphatic nine-wicket win over Victoria.The victory at Karen Rolton Oval completed a wonderful week for South Australia after they earlier completed their first Sheffield Shield win over the Victoria in nine years.Harvey’s unbeaten 134 off 110 balls, his first in the format, was complemented by skipper Alex Carey initially in an 80-run opening stand before Drew (108 not out off 86) made an equally impressive ton to chase down Victoria’s 286 for 7 in the 38th over to claim a vital bonus point.Victoria skipper Peter Handscomb had earlier rescued his side from a precarious position with an excellent 104 from 121 deliveries after Johnson and Brendan Doggett tore through the top order.Harvey, 24, gave the run chase a real kick along when he took 16 off Sam Elliott’s first over. It was a masterclass by the stylish left-hander who grafted for his runs early before accelerating and dominating his former team to earn player-of-the-match honours.Harvey, the nephew of former Australia allrounder Ian Harvey, easily surpassed his previous highest domestic one-day score of 61.Drew, 28, was just as impressive and lifted the tempo to ensure his team claimed the win inside 40 overs to get what could be a crucial extra competition point.Earlier, Johnson took 4 for 46 in a fast and furious spell that set up the win after Carey had won the toss. Johnson removed big-hitting Josh Brown when his former Brisbane Heat teammate was brilliantly caught by a diving Drew at mid-off.His second wicket was a tribute to the left-armer’s searing pace and attacking mindset. Johnson let rip with a straight short ball that had Campbell Kellaway rushing his pull shot and gloving through to Carey.Handscomb came in with Victoria reeling at 42 for 3 and showed aggression and patience depending on what was required. After lashing a suite of boundaries and two imperious sixes, Handscomb accumulated 15 singles in a row.He was dropped on 83 when Liam Scott was unable to grab a caught and bowled chance. An effortless lofted cover drive to the boundary against spinner Lloyd Pope summed up Handscomb’s absolute control for much of the innings. He found a willing ally in Jonathan Merlo (78 off 71) but the final tally was nowhere near enough.

Benjamin Sesko has been a player who has been massively on the radar of Manchester United this summer, unsurprisingly so given his goalscoring form in recent times.

The RB Leipzig striker managed to score 21 times for the Bundesliga side across all competitions, undoubtedly improving the situation within the final third at Old Trafford.

He’s found the net 39 times in his 87 outings for the German side, evidently ready for the next step in his career, which could see him move to the Red Devils this summer.

However, any deal for the Slovenian could be an expensive one, with a fee in the region of £80m constantly being mooted to see him move clubs this summer.

Their interest has been growing throughout the summer transfer window, leading to a huge update being dropped on his future over the last couple of days.

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

The Red Devils made their opening offer for the 22-year-old this week, with their bid totalling £74m including add-ons, but it’s unclear if such a bid will be accepted by the Leipzig hierarchy.

However, they’re not alone in their hunt for his signature this window, with fellow English side Newcastle United in the hunt for his signature – leaving the player with a decision to make before the end of the window.

He’s not the only player currently in their sights, which could see Galatasaray star Gabriel Sara also make the move to England, according to Takvim via Sport Witness.

They claim that the Red Devils are preparing a €40m (£35m) offer for the 26-year-old central midfielder this summer, just one year after he joined the club from Norwich City.

It also states that the player would be open to a move to join Amorim’s side, but the Turkish side are in no rush to offload him and will only part ways if his asking price is met in this window.

Why United’s latest target would be their next Bruno

Bruno Fernandes has been one of the key members of the United squad in recent years, playing a vital role despite the club’s lack of success in England’s top-flight.

The Portuguese international has often been the go-to man in terms of contributions within the final third, scoring a staggering 98 goals in his 290 appearances for the Red Devils.

Such a deal will go down as one of the best in the club’s history, with his £47m move from Sporting CP back in January 2020 now looking like an excellent piece of business.

However, the club have the opportunity to replicate such a move this summer with a deal to sign Sara, with the Brazilian potentially following suit of the 30-year-old and his own move to Manchester.

The 26-year-old could replicate such a move by joining the club from another European side outside the top five divisions – before making an impact with his creativity.

If he can replicate such figures from his recent season in Turkey, it would be a superb addition and one that could add another dimension to Amorim’s already impressive attack.

Sara, who’s been labelled “outstanding” by former boss David Wagner, registered 7.6 progressive passes per 90, along with 2.4 passes into the opposition’s box – with both figures ranking him in the top 7% of all players in Europe.

Gabriel Sara’s stats for Galatasaray (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

31

Goals & assists

10

Pass accuracy

82%

Progressive passes

7.6

Progressive carries

2.7

Passes into final third

6.3

Passes into opposition box

2.4

Take-ons completed

65%

Aerials won

68%

Stats via FBref

He also completed 2.7 progressive carries per 90, helping him complete 65% of the take-ons he attempted – showcasing his impressive ability with the ball at his feet.

The Brazilian’s talents are also reflected out of possession, winning 65% of the aerial battles he entered, whilst registering 1.6 tackles won per 90 – arguably being a perfect box-to-box option.

£35m for a player of Sara’s quality this summer would be great business by the club, adding needed depth within the midfield department in their quest for success.

If he can replicate the levels achieved by Bruno at Old Trafford, it would go down as another brilliant piece of work by the recruitment team – handing Amorim the platform he needs for success.

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A “very good” Birmingham City player has now reportedly agreed a deal to leave the Blues imminently, with a medical at his new club booked early this week.

Birmingham boss Davies positive ahead of Championship return

The Blues are edging closer to their return to the Championship, with the new season getting started with a mouthwatering home clash with Ipswich Town on August 8th.

On Saturday, Birmingham were beaten 4-0 by Crewe Alexandra in a surprise pre-season friendly defeat, but despite this, manager Chris Davies was in good spirits about what he saw from his side.

“The No. 1 thing you’re looking for is, can you build your fitness from these type of games as the first 60 minutes we’ve been exposed to this season? I think the boys looked leggy, they’ve had a strong week in training. So, I think that’ll do them the world of good having that 60 minutes under their belt for most of them.

“I thought first half we were very fluid, we conceded a ridiculous goal which we won’t concede any worse than that, so that’s something to learn from. “But then it was obviously all us and we were pretty fluid, we just lacked a bit of killer instinct in the in the final bit. That will come.”

Birmingham will know that new signings are needed before the end of the summer transfer window – Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been mentioned as an ambitious target – but now a current player has been linked with a move away from the club.

Alfie May set for Birmingham exit

According to a fresh claim from Football League World, Birmingham striker Alfie May has agreed a move to League One side Huddersfield Town and could undergo a medical on Monday, having almost joined them last year.

A £1.2m transfer is expected to go through imminently, bringing an end to the 32-year-old Scot’s one-year spell with the Blues in the process.

May leaving Birmingham this summer may come as a surprise to some, considering he played such a key role in helping his side win the League One title last season, scoring 16 goals and registering eight assists in the competition, also being praised by Davies.

“He was very good. He dropped in as a false nine in possession and is very good at linking the play. He knows where the opposition players are and where to take his touch. He was brought in just to score goals basically and he took it brilliantly again. That’s why we signed him.”

That said, May isn’t considered a key starter and is now jumping up a division, not to mention being 32 years of age, so cashing in on him now makes sense, with his current deal expiring in the summer of 2027.

Wayne Rooney has backed Jack Grealish to make an England comeback after he joined Everton on loan in the summer. Grealish ended his struggles at Manchester City during the transfer window by completing a switch to the Toffees. He has made a bright start to his journey on Merseyside, registering four assists in three Premier League games.

• Rooney backs Grealish for England comeback
• Has four assists for Everton in three games
• Joined on loan from Man City

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• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Grealish has not appeared for the Three Lions since their Nations League clash against Finland last October. Since Thomas Tuchel took charge of the national team, the Man City flop has remained out of the national team set-up. However, Manchester United legend Rooney feels that the talented attacker will make a return soon.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  After completing his switch to Everton, Grealish made an appearance from the bench against Leeds United in the season opener, but was included in David Moyes' starting line-up in the club's next two fixtures against Brighton and Wolves, and in both matches he contributed with assists.

• WHAT ROONEY SAID

  Speaking on podcast, Rooney said: "After the final, actually, the Euros, gave, I don't know what, he gave one of my boys his shirt from the final, which they were delighted with. But, yeah, listen, he's a very gifted player. He's a little bit different to what England have. So, we just hope he gets back in the squad. I'm not going to, yesterday, I'm sure there's a possibility of that. But yeah, no, he's just getting back playing, enjoying his football, that's the main thing for him."

  Rooney added: "Yeah, you know, Jack's a really kind-hearted person and I don't think that comes across as much as it probably should. He's got a big heart, he's very respectful and I think by not playing at Manchester City it was very difficult for him I know it was. But going to Everton, it's a club which he's going to get the time and the space to go and play and enjoy his football and he's started very well. Hopefully that continues."

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  WHAT NEXT FOR GREALISH?

  The 29-year-old will be back in action for the Toffees next weekend, as Moyes' side take on Aston Villa in a Premier League clash on September 13 at home. He will be determined to continue his fine start to catch Tuchel's eye.