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Ruben Amorim’s tenure at Manchester United has finally shown glimpses of lift off over the last couple of weeks, with the first-team squad now adapting to the demands of his 3-4-2-1 system.

Ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, his future at Old Trafford was massively up in the air, especially after only being able to register a 15th-place finish in the Premier League last season.

However, he maintained the backing of the board, with such a decision now proving to be the right one, especially if their recent run of form is anything to go by.

The Red Devils remain unbeaten in each of their last five outings, winning three in a row in the process, leading to the 40-year-old claiming the division’s Manager of the Month award.

However, one player who joined the club during the off-season has somewhat struggled to make the desired impact in recent weeks, leading to question marks around his future.

What former Man Utd players have made of Sesko’s start at the club

Benjamin Sesko joined United in a £74m transfer from RB Leipzig, with the fanbase having real expectations on the centre-forward to change their fortunes in the final third.

The Slovenian has already featured in 11 league outings to date, but has only managed to find the net twice, failing to score in any of the last four matches in the Premier League.

Given his lack of goals, questions have been asked about the 22-year-old’s role at Old Trafford, with many former players voicing their concern over his struggles in England.

Former right-back and now pundit, Gary Neville, spoke about Sesko early this month and gave an honest review on the youngster’s start to life at the club.

The 50-year-old stated: “The jury is out. He’s well off it compared to the other summer signings Manchester United made up front, like Cunha and Mbeumo.

“He looks awkward. He had a couple of good opportunities against Forest, but his touch wasn’t quite right. For £80 million, you can say he’s young and settling in, but you still want to see a bit more.”

He wasn’t the only former Red Devils first-team member to speak out on the striker’s lack of form at present, with Peter Schmeichel also questioning the big-money transfer.

The former goalkeeper said: “You spend £70 million-plus on Sesko, when we don’t have the number six we should have, and there’s the goalkeeping position as well.

“Why did we bring someone in that we didn’t need? Because the head of recruitment [Christopher Vivell] comes from Leipzig and he’s got to make a mark.”

However, Wes Brown has jumped to Sesko’s defence in the last couple of weeks, with the Englishman offering a more open-minded view on his early months in Manchester.

He claimed that: “The quality in wide areas is very good now, so this season can be a positive one for Manchester United. I think Sesko has all the attributes to score plenty of goals for Manchester United. He is mobile, good in the air and with his feet, so it all bodes really well for the club.”

If he is to reach the heights many anticipated earlier this summer, he will definitely need time to adapt to the demands of the Premier League, with Amorim needing to show patience in the talisman.

The United star who’s becoming INEOS’ worst signing

Despite Sesko needing time to prove his worth at United, the same can’t be said about numerous other talents who were brought to the club by INEOS in recent years.

Manuel Ugarte was signed for a reported £50m from PSG last summer, but his move to Old Trafford has fallen way below the expectations many had upon his arrival.

The Uruguayan was seen as the perfect ball-winning option at the heart of the side, but he’s struggled to cement his place in the starting eleven under Amorim.

It’s evident that the manager currently doesn’t trust the 24-year-old at present, with the boss currently selecting 33-year-old Casemiro ahead of him in the pecking order.

Given his tally of just two starts in the league throughout 2025/26, it would be a surprise to no one if he was sold in January, with the club needing to recoup as much of their investment as possible.

However, he might not be alone in that aspect, with forward Joshua Zirkzee another player who has struggled with the expectations after his own move 18 months ago.

INEOS forked out a reported £36m for his signature last summer, but the Dutchman has massively struggled to adapt to life in the Premier League.

The 24-year-old featured in 49 matches across all competitions last season, but was only able to register a measly tally of seven goals – an average of one goal every seven games.

This season has been a new low for the Dutchman, with the attacker only making four appearances in the league under Amorim – none of which have been from a starting position.

During those outings, he’s only featured for a combined total of 82 minutes, with the likes of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha ahead of him in the pecking order.

His struggles may be down to his own confusion, with Zirkzee even stating that he sees himself as a 9.5, often liking to drop deeper and affect the player – with the manager’s system just not suiting his playstyle.

Joshua Zirkzee – PL stats (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

32

Goals & assists

4

Pass accuracy

72%

Shots taken

1.8

Chances created

0.8

Dribble success

38%

Aerials won

29%

Times dispossessed

2.8

Stats via FotMob

His performances have unfortunately fallen way below what many expected last summer, leading to one analyst dubbing him as “terrible” after being hooked before half time against Newcastle United.

Given his lack of impact, there’s no denying that his move to Old Trafford has been a failure, with the board desperately needing to offload him in the upcoming window.

Whilst Sesko has had his own doubters in recent months, Zirkzee is on another level in terms of failures at the club – potentially going down as one of their worst dealings in the last couple of years.

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Posts ByEthan Lamb Nov 13, 2025

GOAL reviews the key takeaways from Americans playing in Europe, with Pulisic featuring for Milan after recovering from injury.

Pre-international break games always feel a little strange. There’s a sense that most players are operating at about 80 percent — trying to win, yes, but also doing just enough to avoid injury before joining their national teams.

And then there are those with a chip on their shoulder – maybe even a point to prove. For the U.S. men’s national team, the weekend was accordingly mixed, with those set for international duty going about their business with relative caution, and those left out making a real impact.

The headline moment belonged to Christian Pulisic, who had missed nearly a month through injury. The star attacking midfielder came off the bench for AC Milan and produced an exciting 30-minute cameo to remind manager Max Allegri exactly what he’s been missing. He didn’t score or assist, but he showed plenty of sharpness and intent.

But there were other strong showings, too. Patrick Agyemang may be out of the USMNT picture for now, but he’s finding form with Derby County. Then there was Folarin Balogun, who produced 45 baffling minutes for Monaco before his night ended early. And finally, there’s Tyler Adams, who was involved in a concerning collision with a Bournemouth teammate.

GOAL looks at the major takeaways from this weekend's Americans Abroad.

Getty ImagesPulisic returns

Mauricio Pochettino's decision to leave Pulisic off his November squad call-ups was probably the sensible move, all things considered. The American star was in a race against time to be fit for the USMNT’s friendlies with Paraguay and Uruguay next week. A return for those fixtures was unlikely – and would have drawn the ire of an already disgruntled Allegri. But after training this week, he was deemed fit enough to play a part for Milan over the weekend.

His impact on Saturday night was mixed. He entered the game at a crucial juncture, with the score level at 2-2 and Milan chasing a winner against a struggling Parma side. Pulisic delivered what was, in truth, a somewhat confusing performance. In some moments, he was excellent – stretching the defense with incisive runs and a few sharp dribbles. His constant activity also irritated the backline. But in critical moments, he fell short. He was handed a clear opportunity to win the game when Rafa Leão sent him through on goal – the kind of chance Pulisic usually buries. Yet, with a defender closing him down, he side-footed wide. It wasn’t Milan’s only chance, but it was their best. They were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportAgyemang scores winner

It's been a mixed few months for Agyemang at Derby. After breaking out for the USMNT in January and enjoying a solid start to the MLS campaign, there was a case to be made for him to stay in Charlotte. But Championship football beckoned, and Agyemang, it seemed, was eager to test himself. The results, thus far, haven't quite lived up to expectations. He has shown quality in glimpses, and certainly competed physically for the Rams, but his goal return – one in nine games – left a lot to be desired.

That is, until Saturday. Agyemang whipped out the kind of finish that he showed he can provide in MLS, making a late run to the far post before powering a header into the back of the net. It was a proper No. 9's goal, Agyemang at his very best. Derby went on to win the game 2-1, with Agyemang's goal proving crucial in securing the result. And perhaps that's what he can be in England. His technical quality doesn't quite get enough credit – yet he can certainly be used as a pure finisher in the box, for when his side needs to grind out results. Here, he did exactly that. 

AFPA crazy afternoon for Balogun

For 30 minutes, Folarin Balogun was brilliant. Monaco were always going to be up against it facing off with a well-drilled Lens side. They needed some attacking prowess. And Balogun brought it from the first minute, a constant menace in the channels and a true nightmare for the Lens defense. This was not an unbelievably involved showing from the American – he completed just five passes. But he never stopped moving, and kept his side in it, even when they didn't see much of the ball. Balogun was rewarded for his hard work on 37 minutes, when he converted a penalty to level the scoreline at 1-1.

And then, he threw it away. It was the kind of red card that strikers give away all too often. He lunged a little too far to try to win the ball. He went in just a little too high. His studs made contact above the ankle. In real time, Balogun thought the decision was harsh. Monaco's bench was incensed. But, after a VAR review, he could have few complaints. Monaco conceded a third goal shortly after, and trailed 3-1 before half time. A good afternoon was ruined. 

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GettyConcern for Adams

The opening minutes of Bournemouth’s match against Aston Villa set the tone for a difficult afternoon for Andoni Iraola’s side. In the fourth minute, Tyler Adams and teammate Adam Smith collided head-to-head while contesting a loose ball from a corner. Smith sustained a cut above his eye and was ruled out by team medical staff, while Adams was cleared to continue. The decision drew attention on social media, with former U.S. international Taylor Twellman questioning Iraola’s call to keep the midfielder on the pitch.

After the collision, Bournemouth struggled to contain an in-form Villa side, conceding twice in each half in a 4-0 defeat. The loss marked Bournemouth’s second consecutive Premier League defeat, following last week’s setback against Manchester City, and saw them drop to seventh in the table.

Iraola later acknowledged that Adams may have sustained an injury.

“But [Adams] has finished the game. So I hope that in his case it’s nothing there,” Iraola said.

Adams is scheduled to join the U.S. men’s national team for upcoming friendlies, though his status may be reevaluated depending on his condition.

West Ham United have now submitted an offer of around £20m for a “natural goalscorer”, with Nuno personally a big fan.

West Ham targeting new striker with Fullkrug heading for exit

It has recently been revealed that Niclas Fullkrug is heading for the exit door this winter, having struggled to find the back of the net consistently since arriving from Borussia Dortmund, scoring just three goals in 28 appearances for West Ham.

Callum Wilson has been the man leading the line as of late, and the Englishman has impressed, bagging a brace in the 2-2 draw against AFC Bournemouth, but there are also question marks over his long-term future at the London Stadium.

Given that Wilson is set to turn 34 in February, and his contract expires at the end of the season, it would be a shrewd move to bring in a younger striker, and the Hammers are desperate to sign at least one new centre-forward in the upcoming window.

That is according to a report from Hammers News, which states West Ham have failed with an opening bid of £20m for Al-Hilal striker Marcos Leonardo, with the Saudi Pro League side adamant they won’t sanction a departure.

However, the Irons may return to the negotiating table with another offer, such is their determination to get a deal done, with Nuno personally a big fan of the Brazilian, who was linked with a move to Nottingham Forest during the manager’s time in charge there.

Nuno has made bringing in a new striker the number one priority for the January transfer window, and if the Hammers were able to get a deal for the 22-year-old done, they would be signing a player in red-hot form.

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ByEmilio Galantini Nov 29, 2025 "Natural goalscorer" Leonardo on fire in Saudi Arabia

Indeed, the Al-Hilal star has been fantastic since the Club World Cup in the summer, scoring four goals in five matches in the new-look competition, and he has since impressed considerably domestically too.

Marcos Leonardo’s goalscoring record

Appearances

Goals

Saudi Pro League

6

6

AFC Champions League

5

3

King’s Cup

3

2

The former Santos man also earned high praise from scout Jacek Kulig courtesy of very impressive attacking numbers during his time in Brazil.

With Fullkrug heading for the exit door, West Ham undoubtedly need to bring in a new striker this winter, and Leonardo could be capable of leading the line for Nuno’s side for years to come.

Inter Miami are preparing to usher in a new era at left-back, with Jordi Alba set to retire after winning the MLS Cup on Saturday and Spanish full-back Sergio Reguilon lined up as his successor. The 28-year-old free agent has been spotted in Miami and is considered a near-confirmed signing, with the deal expected to be announced shortly after Alba’s farewell.

Alba retires – Inter Miami set to sign Reguilon

Inter Miami won Saturday’s MLS Cup final, knowing it would also mark the final appearance of Alba, who has decided to retire following the showpiece match. The former Barcelona star has been a key part of the club’s rise alongside Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets, but the 34-year-old has “waved the white flag” and brought an end to a storied career after one last push for silverware. With Alba departing, the club has accelerated plans to secure his replacement, identifying Reguilon as the preferred option, as per .

The report suggests the signing is essentially a “done deal,” with Inter Miami ready to announce the move soon. Reguilon has been seen in Miami in recent days, fuelling the belief that the transfer is imminent and that the Spaniard will join early in the 2026 MLS season. The former Tottenham defender has spent the past six months without a club, making the opportunity in Miami a timely lifeline.

Reguilon last played competitive football in May 2025, featuring for 74 minutes in Tottenham’s match against Aston Villa before his release in the summer. Since leaving Spurs, he has spent extensive time training individually to maintain his fitness and prepare for a January return to professional competition. Inter Miami view his experience across Europe as an ideal fit to succeed Alba in a team built on high-profile leadership and possession-based play.

Advertisement(C) Getty ImagesReguilon part of Inter Miami's new-age rebuild

Alba’s retirement represents a major turning point for Inter Miami, who structured much of their attacking width around the veteran’s overlapping presence on the left flank. His departure leaves a significant void, not only tactically but culturally, as he formed part of the celebrated quartet reunited from Barcelona’s golden era. Replacing that influence requires a player capable of contributing immediately, which explains the club’s push to secure Reguilon before preseason begins.

Reguilon’s arrival would continue Inter Miami’s strategy of balancing superstar talent with experienced professionals capable of adapting quickly to MLS demands. The move also signals Miami's broader commitment to long-term squad evolution rather than relying solely on ageing marquee names. With Alba and Sergio Busquets retiring and Messi and Luis Suarez entering the final years of their playing careers, the club appears intent on planning ahead rather than reacting late.

Reguilon has not played professionally in seven months

Reguilon’s career has taken him across several major clubs, beginning at Real Madrid before a loan spell at Sevilla. Tottenham signed him permanently in 2020 but recurring managerial changes and shifting tactical needs saw him fall out of favour and ultimately leave the club in 2025 after loan spells with Atletico Madrid, Brentford and Manchester United. Despite his absence from competitive football in recent months, his resume and athletic profile continue to attract interest.

His six-month free agency raised concerns about match fitness, though sources state he has been “training extensively” on his own to prepare for his next move. Inter Miami are aware he may need time to regain sharpness, but believe his upside outweighs that temporary limitation. The club values his ability to operate both defensively and in transition, traits essential for a team that relies heavily on wide build-up patterns.

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Getty Images SportInter Miami set to announce Reguilon signing soon

Inter Miami gave the perfect send-off to Alba and Busquets as they won the MLS Cup on Saturday against the Vancouver Whitecaps. If Reguilon’s signing is confirmed, he will join the roster in early February and begin preparations to slot into the starting XI for the 2026 campaign. The club will then face broader questions about further reinforcements and how best to evolve the squad as key veterans age out of their prime.

On Thanksgiving Thursday in the United States, Celtic supporters across the world are thankful that their side has finally won an away European match.

In the Europa League’s early kick off, despite falling behind inside 11 minutes, Martin O’Neill’s side fought back to beat Feyenoord 3-1; Yang Hyun-jun and then Reo Hatate on target in double-quick time, before substitute Benjamin Nygren lashed home a clinching third late on

Before this, the Hoops had failed to win any of their previous 16 European away matches, dating back to a 3-2 victory over Ferencváros in Budapest in November 2021; Kyōgo Furuhashi, Jota and Liel Abada the scorers for Ange Postecoglou’s side back then.

In the context of this campaign, it takes Celts’ points tally up to seven from five Europa League games, boosting their knockout phase hopes, with fixtures against Roma, Bologna and Utrecht still to come on their schedule.

By the time the current Serie A leaders visit Glasgow in a fortnight, there could well be a new face in the home dugout, so which forgotten figure staked a claim in Rotterdam to be a key figure under Wilfried Nancy?

Reo Hatate's magical night

Plenty of Celtic players deserve praise following a famous win in Rotterdam, but Hatate was the star of the show.

The Japanese midfield maestro spectacularly set up the equaliser, before cooly slotted home the vital go-ahead goal, gently passing the ball into the net having been gifted possession by goalkeeper Timon Wellenreuther, after some excellent, trademark closing down by Daizen Maeda.

Since arriving in January 2022, Hatate has been one of Celtic’s best and most beloved players throughout; scoring twice in a thumping Old Firm victory mere weeks after joining helps!

However, his position in the starting lineup has come under scrutiny, given the Celts’ do have other good central midfield options, namely Nygren, Arne Engels, Luke McCowan and Paulo Bernardo.

However, Hatate’s mercurial talent and exquisite ability makes him a dream for any manager and, based on how his Columbus Crew team like to play, Nancy will surely make the Japanese international a central figure in his team, once he does arrive.

Meanwhile, which usually less heralded figure will also surely have impressed the incoming manager with his display at De Kuip?

Celtic's "world class" talent stars vs Feyenoord

There were many heroes bedecked in green and white hoops during Thursday’s victory over Feyenoord.

Teenaged full-back Colby Donovan was immense, Luke McCowan was excellent out of position, despite his inexplicable early miss, while Daizen Maeda worked his socks off as always.

Meantime, one of the surprise starters when the team sheets dropped was Yang, chosen over Sebastian Tounekti, Nygren and Michel-Ange Balikwisha by O’Neill, but the Korea Republic international certainly repaid the manager’s

Yang lashed home Celtic’s equaliser on the half-hour mark, connecting with Hatate’s looping cross, the ball squirming in between Wellenreuther and the post.

This was only Yang’s second goal of the season, also on target against Partick Thistle in the League Cup in September beforehand, but this one was rather more important.

Overall, he was a constant threat at De Kuip.

Goals

1

1st

Attempted dribbles

3

2nd

Completed passes

25

16th

Duels contested

6

15th

Touches

43

15th

SofaScore rating

7.3

4th

Since arriving from Gangwon FC in July 2023 under Brendan Rodgers, Yang has flattered to deceive, showing glimpses of quality but only doing so on a very irregular basis.

Upon making the move, Gangwon’s then-club president Kim Byung-ji stated that he had “world class” potential, backing him to become as good as the national team’s all-time leading scorer Son Heung-min.

Speaking during commentary for TNT Sports, Joe Hart, a former teammate of Yang, said that “there’s an excellent player in there”, but that he just has to show it on a regular basis, while manager O’Neill stated that he needs to now replicate his form in training in matches.

Thus, with Nancy seemingly poised to arrive, every member of the Celtic squad will have a clean slate, which will surely be good news for Yang, looking to become a key figure under the new manager, hoping to force his way into Hong Myung-bo’s South Korea squad ahead of next summer’s World Cup.

Celtic's number 1 target: Nancy could sign £7m "finisher" to replace Maeda

With Daizen Maeda potentially set to leave Celtic in January, could possible new manager Wilfried Nancy sign a “really good finisher” to replace him?

Nov 21, 2025

Rashid, Nabi and Noor shared six wickets as Pakistan batters barely found any answers to spin

Danyal Rasool02-Sep-2025Afghanistan sealed an emotional victory over Pakistan with a sublime performance from their spinners, squeezing Salman Agha’s men out and triumphing by 18 runs. In the wake of the earthquake at home where the death toll has crossed 1400, a resilient performance from Afghanistan in Sharjah proved much too good for Pakistan with Ibrahim Zadran and Sediqullah Atal producing a 113-run second-wicket partnership that formed the backbone of their innings.It was an innings held up almost entirely by that single pillar; while Zadran and Atal scored 65 and 64 respectively, no other batter managed to get beyond single figures. Pakistan’s bowlers might have felt the had done enough as an economical showing from Saim Ayub and a sensational one from Faheem Ashraf kept Afghanistan on a leash, with Pakistan needing 170 to win in wet, dewy conditions.For the Afghan spinners, though, the dew proved an almost laughably negligible impediment. Fazalhaq Farooqi set them up by getting rid of Ayub for a golden duck and a misfiring Sahibzada Farhan shortly after. It was just the window Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad and Mohammad Nabi needed to run riot in the middle. No Pakistan batter was ever really able to work out which way Noor turned the ball or how to target Rashid without taking extreme risks.The trio took six wickets among them as Pakistan lost 7 for 49 to slump to 111 for 9. At the time they were looking at a chastening defeat, but Haris Rauf restored some balance to the scorecard with a breezy little cameo, an unbeaten 34 off 16 that took Pakistan past 150, and made the game look more competitive than Afghanistan’s dazzling spin attack had ensured it really was.Ibrahim Zadran scored a second fifty in two games•Emirates Cricket BoardZadran, Atal combine for a special standPakistan made a dream start after being put in to bowl with the early dismissal of Rahmanullah Gurbaz. By the end of the fourth over, Afghanistan had only shuffled along to 18. But Atal and Zadran have made a bit of a habit of partnerships that straddle multiple phases of an innings, and they produced their most impressive one yet.The first signs of a gear shift came when Rauf, who struggled all day with the ball, was smashed for a four and a six in the fifth over. Thereon, Atal and Zadran rendered the Pakistan bowlers strangely toothless, while gradually cranking up the scoring rate. The signal to launch had been building, but at the same time seemed to come out of nowhere as the pair plundered 20 off Sufiyan Muqeem in the 14th over. By the time the partnership was finally broken, the duo had added the second-highest second-wicket stand in Afghan T20I history.Faheem Ashraf returned his best T20I figures•AFP/Getty ImagesAshraf’s silver liningOn a forgettable day for Pakistan, Ashraf’s spell stood out, going some way to burnishing his short-form bowling credentials. It was a slow, spin-friendly wicket, but with Pakistan struggling to break that Atal-Zadran stand, they turned to Ashraf in the tenth over. He went through it without either inflicting or sustaining much damage, but it was his three-over stint at the back-end that demonstrated his value.It was he who broke that partnership off the second ball of the 16th, and was unfortunate not to snare Azmatullah Omarzai later on that over when Mohammad Nawaz shelled one. He would get his man with a beautifully disguised slower delivery next over, with another change of pace doing for Zadran two deliveries later. Taking pace of the ball continued to work when it proved too good for Nabi. At a time when Pakistan’s bowlers were travelling from the other end, Ashraf’s last three overs had seen just 18 scored and four wickets taken, ensuring the batting side were kept below 170.Noor Ahmad and Mohammad Nabi made life tough for the batters•Getty ImagesAfghan spinners rip through the middle orderThis is why Afghanistan feel so confident defending totals. There was plenty of dew by the midpoint of Pakistan’s pursuit, but Afghanistan’s spinners buzzed around the batters, relishing their defence of a total that was just about par. Pakistan had consolidated after two early wickets, and kept up with the rate; Fakhar Zaman took 15 off Omarzai’s first over to help Pakistan to 52 for 2 in the powerplay.In the eighth over, though, the spinners began to weave their web. Nabi threw in the change-up, darting the ball in as Fakhar sliced his smear to short third for Farooqi to grab. With the runs drying up, Pakistan threw in a signature unforced error, some lazy running combined with a clever bit of work from Rashid catching Salman short of his crease.Left-arm spinner Noor, curiously benched for the first two games, made up for lost time with a wicket off his first delivery to send Hasan Nawaz packing. Mohammad Haris failed to punish a long hop from Nabi the following over to allow Afghanistan to burrow deep into Pakistan’s tail. They had gone from 62 for 2 to 82 for 6, and no amount of deep batting can hedge against that kind of collapse against an attack of Afghanistan’s quality.

Arsenal are now ready to submit an offer for Valencia star Javi Guerra, with it emerging the midfielder could be available for a bargain fee.

The Gunners bolstered their options in the middle of the park considerably during the summer transfer window, bringing in Martin Zubimendi and Oliver Norgaard, and they now have two midfielders ranked among the best 15 in the world.

Declan Rice, who has been likened to a modern-day Patrick Vieira, has also continued to impress, with Micah Richards saying: “He’s taken his game to the next level now where you’re taking about one of the best in world football.

“It is so good to see and if Arsenal do win the Premier League this season it will be because players like him. I said at the start that it’s a team game but he’s just exceeding all expectations.”

Despite Mikel Arteta being blessed with a number of top-quality options, however, the north Londoners remain keen on bringing in another central midfielder…

Arsenal ready to submit offer for Javi Guerra

That is according to a report from Spain, which states Arsenal are now ready to submit an offer for Guerra, with it being revealed Valencia could be willing to listen to bids in the region of just €20m (£18m), despite the €100m (£88m) release clause in his contract, meaning the Gunners could get a £70m discount.

Atletico Madrid have also emerged as one of the strongest contenders to sign the midfielder, with the Spanish club preparing a move, alongside the Gunners, who have been closely monitoring his performances.

Valencia have tied the 22-year-old down to a contract which lasts until 2029, which should put them in a strong negotiating position in theory, but Arteta’s side could get a bargain deal over the line if they move quickly.

The Spanish maestro has been impressing in his home country for quite some time, catching scout Ben Mattinson’s eye courtesy of a solid display against Real Madrid during the 2023-24 campaign.

The Valencia-born star has remained an important player this season, setting up two goals in 11 La Liga outings, and he places in the 83rd percentile for assists per 90 over the past year, when compared to other midfielders, having averaged 0.17.

With the likes of Zubimendi, Rice and Norgaard on the books already, Guerra may not be a necessary signing, but a deal would not break the bank at around just £17m, and he would be a fantastic back-up option for Arteta in midfield.

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ByCharlie Smith Nov 6, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur are now pushing hard to sign a “powerful” midfielder who has been likened to Manchester City star Rodri, and his current employers could be willing to sanction a move for £30m…

Tottenham looking to strengthen in midfield after Fulham setback

Tottenham remain without a home win since the opening day of the season in the Premier League, having succumbed to a 2-1 defeat against Fulham on Saturday afternoon, and Danny Murphy has since criticised the lack of creativity in the middle of the park.

As such, Spurs may need to enter the market for some new signings in the January transfer window, and bringing in a new forward may be of key significance, given that Thomas Frank has decided he no longer wants Richarlison.

However, signing another midfielder could also be a savvy move, given the lack of creativity, and there has now been a new update on the north Londoners’ pursuit of Anderlecht maestro Nathan De Cat.

According to a report from Caught Offside, Tottenham sporting director Johan Lange is now pushing hard to sign De Cat, who has impressed scouts from across Europe, with Aston Villa, Brighton and Bayern Munich also keen.

The Belgian club had been hoping to keep hold of the 17-year-old until 2027, but they could now be willing to cash-in on the youngster, who has been compared to Manchester City star Rodri, for £30m.

"Powerful" De Cat could be future star

Likened to Rodri due to being a deep-lying playmaker, the teenager has been praised for his creativity by scout Ben Mattinson, who said he is able to unlock defences “from deep or as creator in the final third”, while also describing the starlet as “powerful.”

Fellow scout Jacek Kulig also clearly believes the Anderlecht ace could be destined for big things, having praised his performances at youth level back in July.

Since then, the Belgian has gone on to become a key player for the Anderlecht first team, making 20 appearances in all competitions this season, which is an impressive feat as such a young age.

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Spurs need more creativity.

ByEmilio Galantini Nov 28, 2025

At just 17, De Cat is likely to need more time to develop before being able to slot into Tottenham’s starting XI, but he clearly has a lot of potential, and £30m could end up being a bargain in the long run.

Newcastle United could be boosted by the unexpected return of a sidelined star sooner than first thought, according to reports.

Howe: "individual errors" hurt Newcastle

It’s not often that Eddie Howe is publicly critical of his Newcastle side, but even he couldn’t hide his frustration after the Magpies saw their lead wiped away by Tottenham Hotspur at the death. It was yet another late goal and yet more points dropped from a winning position for those in Tyneside, who rarely do things the easy way these days.

Howe admitted that “individual errors” hurt Newcastle against Spurs just when they thought they did enough to secure all three points against Thomas Frank’s side.

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The former Bournemouth boss told reporters: “I think it’s definitely a failing, you can’t sit here and go, I can’t sit here and go, everything’s okay in that respect, it’s happened too many times this season, that doesn’t mean we can’t figure it out and put it right very quickly.

“Today’s really a set piece, it’s a moment and those moments happen in football, they’ve been on the other end of it at times and individual errors usually from set plays hurt you and that’s what happened.”

Tottenham will feel as though their late winner was justified, however, after Newcastle were controversially awarded a penalty, which Anthony Gordon converted in the second-half.

Jamie Redknapp demanded “consistency” from the referees at full-time and Howe has every right to demand the same from his players. In a packed December full of fixtures, the Newcastle boss will be relieved to hear the latest update on Yoane Wissa’s long-awaited return from injury.

Craig Hope shares unexpected Yoane Wissa return date

According to the Daily Mail’s Craig Hope, Wissa could now make a shock return for Newcastle this weekend and take a place on Howe’s bench against Burnley. The forward recently took part in a training ground game, but it remained uncertain when he would finally make his debut for the club.

The summer signing endured a disastrous start to life at St James’ Park when he was injured not long after arriving. Now, he could get the chance to finally make his mark just when Newcastle need him most.

Dubbed “remarkable” by former Brentford boss Thomas Frank last season, it will certainly be interesting to see how Wissa is used in Tyneside.

Record signing Nick Woltemade has enjoyed such an excellent start, but will undoubtedly have a fight to keep hold of his place now that his competition is nearing a return. Whether Howe sticks or twists, there’s no denying that Wissa’s return will be a major boost.

Howe must finally bin 5/10 Newcastle dud who was "very sloppy" vs Spurs

Chelsea made their return to Premier League football in fine fashion on Saturday afternoon, comfortably dispatching Burnley 2-0.

That victory, followed by the rest of Saturday’s results, has left the Blues as the closest competitor to Arsenal, sitting six points off them and facing them on Sunday.

However, while Enzo Maresca has a squad full of incredible players, some might argue that they are just a bit short in certain areas compared to the Gunners.

Fortunately, that looks like something Chelsea are looking to address, as reports have linked them with one of Arsenal’s transfer targets, someone who could help make them serious title contenders.

Chelsea enter race for Arsenal target

Even with the transfer window not opening for over a month, Chelsea have already been linked with a plethora of unreal, difference-making players.

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For example, while he’s inexperienced, Juventus’ Kenan Yıldız would be an excellent signing for the Blues, having already scored three goals and registered four assists in 15 games this season.

Likewise, Antoine Semenyo, who is one of the most sought-after players in the country at the moment, would be an incredible addition to Maresca’s side.

However, if a player is going to come in and help turn the Blues into serious title contenders this season, they are likely going to be a defender, like Murillo.

Yes, according to a recent report from Caught Offside, Chelsea are one of several sides interested in the Brazilian international.

Alongside the West Londoners, Arsenal and Barcelona have also been credited with interest in the 23-year-old centre-back, who Nottingham Forest value at up to €90m, which is about £79m.

Therefore, it could be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given Murillo’s ability and potential, Chelsea should fight for him, especially as he could help make them serious title contenders.

Why Murillo could help Chelsea win the Premier League

As things stand, Chelsea are currently second in the Premier League, six points behind Arsenal, having scored just a single goal fewer than them.

However, while their attack is certainly comparable, the Blues have conceded 11 goals to the Gunners’ six, and you are conceding almost twice as many goals as your rivals, you aren’t going to finish above them in the table.

Now, one of the key reasons for the West Londoners’ middling defensive record – in the context of a title challenge – is that their best centre-back, Levi Colwill, has been out for the whole season so far, and the likes of

Tosin Adarabioyo and Trevoh Chalobah have not been anywhere near the same level in his absence.

Therefore, for Maresca’s side to become true contenders for the league, they need more and higher-quality defensive reinforcements, which is where Murillo comes in.

Despite having practically no stability at Forest this season, the Brazilian titan has still put up some seriously impressive underlying numbers.

According to FBref, he ranks in the top 3% of centre-backs in the league for blocks, the top 5% for interceptions and successful take-ons, the top 7% for ball recoveries, the top 9% for shot-creating actions, the top 11% for through balls and more, all per 90.

% of Dribblers Tackled

100.0%

Top 2%

Blocks

1.83

Top 3%

Shots from Free Kicks

0.12

Top 5%

Interceptions

2.07

Top 5%

Successful Take-Ons

0.49

Top 5%

SCA (Defensive Action)

0.12

Top 7%

Passes Blocked

0.85

Top 7%

Ball Recoveries

4.87

Top 7%

Shot-Creating Actions

1.46

Top 9%

Tkl+Int

3.65

Top 9%

Goals/Shot

0.25

Top 11%

Goals – xG

+0.09

Top 11%

Non-Penalty Goals – npxG

+0.09

Top 11%

Passes Attempted (Long)

9.99

Top 11%

Through Balls

0.24

Top 11%

SCA (Live-ball Pass)

1.10

Top 11%

SCA (Dead-ball Pass)

0.12

Top 11%

Progressive Passes

4.87

Top 13%

SCA (Shot)

0.12

Top 13%

Tackles (Att 3rd)

0.24

Top 13%

Goals

0.12

Top 15%

Add to that the fact that he played a massive role in the Tricky Trees having one of the best defensive records in the country last season, and it’s easy to see why one analyst made the bold claim that he’s “one of the best defenders in the Premier League.”

On top of all of that, the “monstrous” international, as dubbed by journalist Ryan Taylor, is both young at just 23 and experienced, having made 87 appearances for Forest, 27 for Corinthians and one for Brazil.

Now, with all that said, there is still a chance the Sao Paulo-born star wouldn’t be a starter when everyone in Maresca’s side is fit, but he would be an exceptional cover, and all title-winning sides need that.

Ultimately, it wouldn’t be cheap, but Chelsea should do what they can to sign Murillo, as he could be one of the final pieces to Maresca’s puzzle.

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