All posts by h716a5.icu

Having seen their rivals enjoy yet another excellent campaign whilst they struggle once more, Manchester United are now reportedly racing Liverpool sign an attacking reinforcement this summer.

Man Utd scouts impressed by Serie A star

The summer transfer window is one that Manchester United simply must get right. Those at Old Trafford can no longer afford to waste money on failed stars as INEOS continue to cut costs outside of the playing squad. With Ruben Amorim desperate for reinforcements too, Sir Jim Ratcliffe must ensure that he builds a side capable of thriving in his manager’s 3-4-2-1 system.

Amid their struggles, it’s no surprise that the transfer rumours have already been coming thick and fast at Old Trafford – particularly when it comes to attacking reinforcements. The Red Devils have been far too blunt at times this season and targets such as Jonathan David and Rayan Cherki have threatened to steal the headlines as a result.

David would certainly be an impressive coup, given the amount of interest in his signature ahead of the expiration of his current Lille contract this summer. Signing such a talented goalscorer as a free agent is undoubtedly the type of deal that Ratcliffe needs to chase.

Meanwhile, after signing Patrick Dorgu from Lecce in January, the Red Devils have seemingly returned to Serie A. According to Caught Offside, Manchester United are now battling Liverpool to sign Assane Diao from Como this summer, with scouts wowed by the 19 year-old.

Man Utd's £50k-p/w star is in danger of becoming the new Anthony Elanga

Man Utd saw Elanga come back to haunt them on Tuesday evening at the City Ground

ByRobbie Walls Apr 2, 2025

The teenage winger has been one of the players to watch since joining Cesc Fabregas’ side in January, with Como sat as high as 13th in their first Serie A campaign in 21 years. It seems as though that form has done enough to earn the attention of some top sides too, with Manchester United potentially landing a future star in the coming months.

Whether they can beat a side of Liverpool’s calibre to the teenager’s signature remains to be seen, however.

"Magnificent" Diao is a future star

At just 19 years old, all signs are pointing towards the very top for Diao who may yet stop off at Manchester United on his way. The teenager is certainly the type of player that the Red Devils should be aiming to sign too. Already, he’s showcasing an eye for goal despite lacking the same experience as some of the struggling stars in Amorim’s squad – scoring seven times in all competitions.

Earning plenty of praise during the second-half of the campaign, football talent scout Jacek Kulig had nothing but good things to say about Diao – describing his start to life in Serie A as “magnificent”.

Having recently moved from Real Betis to Como, another move at this stage may well come too soon for the young winger, but he is not a talent that United will want to miss out on.

In the wake of Liverpool’s leave-it-late victory over West Ham United to move within touching distance of claiming the Premier League, both Arne Slot and Virgil van Dijk have alluded to a big summer of investment.

The runaway leaders have surprised everyone in ending Manchester City’s four-peat and leapfrogging Arsenal, who look set to complete their third second-place finish on the trot.

However, Liverpool definitely haven’t been perfect, with several first-team regulars struggling to prove themselves under new management and seemingly heading toward a summer exit.

From an attacking sense, Darwin Nunez is the most likely name to be drawn to mind, but he’s not the only one, oh no, Diogo Jota has also flattered to deceive for months and could be sold this summer.

Why Liverpool should sell Diogo Jota

Nunez has been consigned to the margins all season – the Uruguayan wasn’t even a part of Liverpool’s matchday squad against West Ham – but Jota has been utilised in a more important manner.

However, injuries have managed to scupper Jota’s hopes of a standout season. The 28-year-old has only started 13 Premier League matches all year, with the goals drying up since overcoming setbacks across winter and before.

Indeed, the Portugal international has only scored twice across his past 13 fixtures in all competitions, with the combination of injuries and goalscoring impotence highlighting the need for a new centre-forward.

24/25

32 (21)

9

4

23/24

32 (19)

15

5

22/23

28 (15)

7

8

21/22

55 (39)

21

6

20/21

30 (19)

13

1

Liverpool need to aim for the stars. Some reports claim that Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak is very much the dream target this summer, but at around €150m (£130m), the Reds might need to part ways with more than just Nunez.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Luckily, Slot knows that he has an up-and-coming star who could take Jota’s place and save Liverpool a whole load of money.

Liverpool already have a perfect Jota heir

Who knows how Liverpool’s transfer window will pan out. In fairness, though, there’s every chance that the Reds could launch a stunning move for a player of Isak’s ilk.

Finances are good at Anfield, but those working away in the offices will always look for a shrewd solution if one presents itself, and promoting Jayden Danns through fire sales of Nunez and Jota could be the perfect, resourceful way to take Liverpool forward next season.

Danns, 19, has suffered with a few unfortunate injuries over the past year, ending his January agreement to move on loan to Championship promotion hopefuls Sunderland before he had even kicked a ball.

But there’s no mistaking the teenage striker is one to watch, with analyst Ben Mattinson already pronouncing him to be “a better finisher than Nunez.”

Based on the evidence of the past three years, this isn’t all that hard, but it does highlight the natural ball-striking prowess that Danns can develop over the coming years, having already scored three times for Liverpool across just nine professional appearances.

Serving as Isak’s understudy, for example, Danns could save Liverpool millions and allow them to stock up the war chest through sales of Liverpool’s existing – and struggling – number nines.

With attention needed across various other areas of the park, this might just be the perfect way to keep Slot’s side firing while strengthening across key areas too.

He could surpass Salah: Liverpool ready £130m offer to sign world-class CF

Liverpool are set to break the bank on a new striker this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 14, 2025

Arsenal are now in talks to seal an early summer deal for a “sensational” striker, who has now emerged as their top target, according to a report.

Gunners' striker pursuit heating up

These are exciting times for the Gunners, who are daring to dream after defeating Real Madrid over two legs to reach the Champions League semi-final, but there is a feeling a top striker could be the final piece of the jigsaw in their Premier League title pursuit next season.

As such, the north Londoners are now ramping up their pursuit of a new forward, and talks have now been held over a deal for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, with sporting director Andre Berta trying to convince the Slovenian to move to the Emirates Stadium.

However, given that a deal for Sesko could amount to £58m, there may be a temptation to look at a cheaper alternative, and talks have also been held over Lille striker Jonathan David, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer.

Kiwior upgrade: Arsenal want to sign "the most in-demand CB in the world"

The tremendously exciting prospect could be incredible for Arsenal.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Apr 21, 2025

Mikel Arteta’s side have expressed clear interest in Sesko and David, but a different striker is now their first choice option for the summer transfer window.

According to a report from Football Insider, Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres is now Arsenal’s top target, and they have opened talks to sign the Sweden international in an early summer deal.

Berta is known to be an admirer of Gyokeres, and the sporting director is driving the pursuit, with negotiations ongoing to try and convince him about the move to north London, while the Gunners are also attempting to put a package together.

The Sporting CP star becoming the north Londoners’ top target is the latest ‘twist’ in their pursuit of a new striker, with bringing in an elite forward deemed to be a priority heading into the summer window.

"Sensational" Gyokeres is a goal machine

Despite having an £86m release clause, Fabrizio Romano has revealed the Swedish striker will cost up to £60m this summer, which seems a reasonable fee, given just how impressive his goal and assist record has been this season.

Competition

Appearances

Goals

Assists

Liga Portugal

29

34

7

Champions League

8

6

0

Taca de Portugal

5

3

2

Allianz Cup

3

4

0

Supertaca

1

0

2

The 26-year-old was lauded as “sensational” by Richard Keys earlier in the campaign, and his performances in Portugal indicate that he is now ready to make the step-up to a top club.

While there may be some concerns that Gyokeres is yet to prove himself in a major league, his Champions League exploits this season suggest he could be a fantastic signing for Arsenal, and potentially the missing piece of the jigsaw in their title bid.

Chelsea booked their place in the Europa Conference League final last night with a routine 1-0 victory over Swedish outfit Djurgarden at Stamford Bridge.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s first-half strike was enough to secure a 5-1 aggregate win, with Enzo Maresca’s side facing Real Betis in the final at the end of the month.

The Blues have reached their eighth major European final, looking to add to their two Champions League and two Europa League triumphs in previous years.

Given their form in the competition, it would be a surprise to no one that Maresca’s men are the favourites to go all the way – topping off a superb first year in the role for the Italian.

Numerous players impressed during the second leg victory, potentially handing the manager a selection headache ahead of the remaining Premier League fixtures.

Chelsea’s star performers against Djurgarden

Alongside scoring the goal that clinched another win, midfielder Dewsbury-Hall enjoyed an evening to remember, producing numerous impressive figures throughout.

The 26-year-old created three chances – the most of any player in the match – whilst also completing 100% of the dribbles he attempted, showcasing the threat he carried in attacking areas.

He wasn’t the only star to impress at the Bridge last night, with 16-year-old academy graduate Reggie Walsh getting the opportunity to start from the off after his cameo last week.

The teenager impressed with the opportunity, completing 91% of the passes he attempted, whilst winning four fouls and posing a serious threat to the opposition despite his tender age.

However, despite the showings by the aforementioned duo, one other Blues star managed to impress, with the boss simply unable to drop him from the side after such a positive showing.

The Chelsea star who now looks undroppable after Djurgarden

The Europa Conference League run has been extremely beneficial for Maresca over the last few months, handing the manager the opportunity to fully evaluate the players at his disposal.

Many players, like Walsh, have taken the chance handed to them with both hands, but the same can’t be said for others, with departures likely over the summer window.

That being said, investment is also to be expected in West London as the club looks to push towards the summit of the Premier League during the 2025/26 campaign.

However, such events shouldn’t affect youngster Josh Acheampong, who’s managed to go from strength to strength after originally being frozen out during the early stages of the Maresca reign.

The 19-year-old featured for the entirety of the clash once again last night, thriving in the side as the Blues booked their place in the final of yet another final.

He registered a staggering 122 touches on the ball, completing 85 passes at a completion rate of 91% – not looking out of place in the first-team ranks despite his youthful years.

Acheampong also managed to make 10 passes into the final third and won two tackles, having a huge impact at both ends of the pitch during the triumph – leading to journalist Nizaar Kinsella labelling him as “Chelsea’s best player”.

Minutes played

90

Touches

122

Passes completed

85/93 (91%)

Passes into final third

10

Tackles won

2

Fouls won

4

Duels won

9

To top off his magnificent showing, the teenager was handed a 7/10 match rating by The Express’ Dom Smith, highlighting how impressive he was during the meeting at the Bridge.

After such a display, Maresca can’t drop the academy gem, handing him a selection headache ahead of the weekend’s huge clash with Newcastle United.

The Blues need an excellent end to the campaign if they are to secure Champions League football for next season, with Acheampong deserving of the opportunity to help the club in their quest.

He's better than Gittens: Chelsea in talks to sign "world-class" £64m star

Chelsea are making moves over a deal to land new attacking stars ahead of the summer transfer window.

ByEthan Lamb May 8, 2025

Chelsea chiefs hold a private belief that one “sensational” player will make the move to Stamford Bridge this summer, following the club’s decision to offer him a tempting contract.

Chelsea suffer damaging 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United

The race for Champions League qualification is the tightest and most enthralling we’ve seen in years, with six teams involved in a narrow top-five battle which could see any one of them drop out in the final two Premier League games of the season.

Chelsea favourites to sign £148m forward ahead of Al-Nassr with talks held

The Blues are ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo’s side.

ByEmilio Galantini May 11, 2025

Chelsea acquired some breathing room between themselves and sixth place after their excellent win over champions Liverpool, but immediately followed up that result with a damaging 2-0 loss to Newcastle at St. James’ Park over the weekend.

Sandro Tonali opened the scoring inside two minutes, kickstarting the uphill contest awaiting Enzo Maresca’s men, with striker Nicolas Jackson then compounding Chelsea’s misery by receiving a red card on 36 minutes.

Man United (home)

May 16th

Nottingham Forest (away)

May 25th

They remained in the game until the dying seconds, with midfielder Bruno Guimaraes sealing a precious three points for Newcastle. Chelsea remain in the top five on goal difference alone, making their final matches against Man United and Nottingham Forest absolute must-wins.

The race for Europe is absolutely vital in more ways than one, with their success set to have an influence over their transfer plans for the summer as well.

Beyond this season, Chelsea are competing in the Club World Cup and reportedly want to bolster their squad before the tournament kicks off.

According to widespread reports from reliable media sources, Bournemouth starlet Dean Huijsen is a very serious target for Maresca’s side as they seek to reinforce their central defensive options.

Chelsea have already held talks with Huijsen’s representatives, and some reports claim they’re moving in with an attractive proposal for the 20-year-old, one which he personally likes (Simon Phillips).

Huijsen’s £50 million release clause has piqued interest from a host of English rivals and beyond, but it appears BlueCo are making real moves for the ex-Serie A defender, and want a deal done “by the end of May” (Fabrizio Romano).

Chelsea convinced Huijsen will join with "lucrative" contract offer

Now, TEAMtalk have backed up previous reports that Chelsea are ready to tempt Huijsen with an offer, providing further background on this evolving story.

The outlet reports that Chelsea’s offer to Huijsen will be a “lucrative” seven-year contract, and he’s responding “positively” to their eagerness. Those within Stamford Bridge are also convinced that he’ll choose to join them over rival clubs.

While they haven’t won the race for his signature just yet, with Real Madrid described as a threat in particular, Chelsea view themselves as serious frontrunners to sign the Bournemouth sensation after his impressive debut campaign in England.

Dubbed a “sensational” centre-back prospect by members of the media (Ben Mattinson), the intense race for his services is a clear indicator that elite club insiders see Huijsen as a potentially world-class addition, both for now and the long-term.

There have been two significant problems for Arsenal this season, which have resulted in yet another trophyless campaign.

The first is their numerous and significant injuries, and the second is their lack of cutting-edge up top, which said injuries have exacerbated.

For example, as things stand, the North Londoners have scored 17 goals fewer than Liverpool in the Premier League despite being just one place behind them in the table.

So, with such a clear deficit between them and their title rival, it’s hardly been surprising to see a host of talented attackers linked with the Gunners in recent weeks, such as Bryan Mbeumo, although even with his lofty price tag, one of Arsenal’s own stars is worth millions more.

Why Arsenal want sign Mbeumo

So, according to reports from earlier this week, Arsenal are keen on signing Mbeumo during the summer, but what is it about him that has caught the North Londoners’ eye

Well, the main thing is that even though he’s not the biggest name around and plays for a team who were in the Championship just a few seasons ago, the Cameroon international is a lean, mean goalscoring machine.

For example, in just 41 appearances, totalling 3487 minutes this season, the “unplayable” attacker, as dubbed by Brentford boss Thomas Frank, has scored 19 goals and provided nine assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.46 games, or every 124.53 minutes.

Moreover, on top of his prolific nature in front of goal, the former Troyes star can play in a number of different positions, from right-wing to centre-forward to second striker, and he’s even made a few appearances off the left.

In all, Mbeumo would bring a mountain of goals with him to the Emirates and help bulk out Arteta’s attacking options, making his supposed £60m price tag seem relatively reasonable.

Yet, while he’d likely be a hit in North London, the Brentford star would have to hit the ground running and then some to see his valuation get anywhere near one of his potential teammates.

The Arsenal star worth millions more than Mbeumo

The good news for Arsenal is that while they haven’t all performed at their best this season, they do have a few very talented attackers in the squad, such as Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard and Kai Havertz.

However, when it comes to someone who is worth considerably more than Mbeumo, only one player stands out: Bukayo Saka.

Yes, according to Transfermarkt, the young Englishman is worth up to an astounding €150m, which is about £126m, or a whopping £66m more than the Brentford ace is likely to cost the club.

Now, while that might sound like an absurd valuation, it’s probably a fair one, as, despite still being just 23 years old and missing over three months of the season, the Hale End superstar has still been the Gunners’ most productive player this season.

For example, in just 36 appearances, totalling 2592 minutes, the “legend in the making,” as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has scored 12 goals and provided 14 assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.38 games, or every 99.69 minutes.

Appearances

24

9

3

Minutes

1709′

764′

119′

Goals

6

6

0

Assists

11

2

1

Goal Involvements per Match

0.70

0.88

0.33

Minutes per Goal Involvement

100.52′

95.5′

119′

Moreover, according to FBref, he sits in the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for shot-creating actions from shots and goal-creating actions, the top 2% for expected assists, the top 5% for goals plus assists and more, all per 90.

Ultimately, while Mbeumo would be a brilliant signing, it feels unlikely that he’d ever be as valuable as Saka, as the talismanic winger is already performing at a world-class level and has many more years to get even better.

Gyokeres alternative: Arsenal working to sign "monster" £60m Havertz upgrade

The Premier League star would be unreal for Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 20, 2025

Manchester United need a huge rebuild over the summer transfer window, with Ruben Amorim desperately needing to make his own mark on the current first-team squad.

His side were only able to finish in the bottom half of the Premier League table, with their Europa League final defeat against Tottenham Hotspur topping off their dismal campaign.

However, the manager has wasted no time in making the changes he wants to the side, allowing Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans all set to depart at the end of their contracts.

Matheus Cunha appears to be the first signing of the summer window, with Fabrizio Romano confirming that he’s set to move to Old Trafford after the Red Devils agreed a £62.5m deal with Wolves.

Whilst the deal hasn’t been confirmed yet, it’s likely to be the start of a big few months for Amorim, with other players on their radar ahead of the summer transfer window.

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

Even though the window is yet to open, United have been in constant pursuit of a new talisman, with Viktor Gyokeres the main man on the list in such a department after his stint under Amorim at Sporting CP.

However, it appears that they may miss out on the 26-year-old this summer, with the latest report claiming that they could be set to miss out on the Swede, with other targets ahead of him this summer.

Whilst it’s disappointing, other targets in other areas have also been considered in recent days, with Atalanta’s central midfielder Ederson the latest on their shortlist, according to CaughtOffside.

The report claims that the Red Devils have made contact with the Serie A side over a potential move ahead of the upcoming window, demanding a fee in the region of £50m for the Brazilian.

It also states that the 25-year-old is also on the radar of local rivals Liverpool, with Amorim’s side needing to work tirelessly to avoid missing out on his signature this summer.

Why United’s £50m star could be Amorim’s own McTominay

Scottish midfielder Scott McTominay departed United last summer for just £25m, bringing his 22-year spell at Old Trafford to an end, joining Italian outfit Napoli.

He registered over 250 appearances for the Red Devils, but it was decided by former boss Erik ten Hag and the hierarchy that it was the right time to cash in on the 28-year-old.

However, his switch to Serie A has taken his career to the next level, registering 13 goals and four assists across all competitions, leading Antonio Conte’s side to the league title in 2024/25.

On a personal level, it was the best season of McTominay’s career, scoring the most goals he has ever scored in a single campaign, subsequently being named the Serie A Player of the Year.

The deal to allow him to leave now looks a huge mistake, but Amorim could land his own version of the midfielder with a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson in the next few months.

When comparing their stats from this season, the Brazilian has matched or bettered him in numerous key areas, highlighting the quality he possesses in and out of possession.

Ederson, who’s been labelled “world-class” by one former professional, may have registered fewer goals, but has matched the Scotsman’s goal per shot on target rate – having the clinical nature needed in front of goal.

Games played

37

36

Goals & assists

5

16

Goals per shot on target

0.3

0.3

Pass accuracy

87%

84%

Passes into final third

6.1

2.2

Shot-creating actions

3.1

2.1

Tackles won

1.6

1.3

Interceptions made

1.1

0.7

Aerials won

60%

57%

He’s also managed to complete more passes and made more passes into the final third, handing the players in front of him the chances to bolster their tallies and changing the Red Devils’ fortunes in attacking areas.

Out of possession, the Brazilian has been just as dominant, winning more tackles and making more interceptions – offering an added defensive presence at the heart of the midfield.

£50m may prove to be a massive investment from the hierarchy, but as seen by his stats, it’s a deal that would massively improve the options currently at the manager’s disposal.

If he manages to have such an impact like McTominay has at Napoli this campaign, it would prove to be a bargain, enabling Amorim to have the elite-level talents he needs to be a success at Old Trafford.

Forget Garnacho: Man Utd must sell flop who's worth even more than Cunha

Man Utd could find a different solution to selling Alejandro Garnacho…

ByRobbie Walls May 29, 2025

Chelsea’s prospering Cobham academy has birthed a plethora of outstanding talents over the last decade, which has both saved on transfer fees and brought in hundreds of millions of pounds to the Stamford Bridge coffers.

Chelsea poaching world football's brightest young starlets

However, while the west Londoners are famed for their ability to nuture top-quality prospects, BlueCo have not been shy when it comes to poaching world football’s most elite rising stars from elsewhere.

Earlier this year, Chelsea sealed a double-deal for Geovany Quenda (18) and Dario Essugo (20), with the latter officially announced as a new Blue earlier this week and eligible to play at the Club World Cup later this month.

In the short-term, Essugo is viewed as a natural back-up option to Moises Caicedo, with his ball-winning skills and athleticism set to be a real asset to Chelsea (Ben Jacobs).

This comes amid their £30 million deal for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, who is debatably England’s most exciting young striker, especially after a productive season at Portman Road where he bagged 12 Premier League goals for an otherwise dismal side.

Ipswich Town 2-0 Chelsea

8.08

Bournemouth 1-2 Ipswich Town

8.05

Ipswich Town 2-2 Aston Villa

8.04

Ipswich Town 1-2 Southampton

7.83

Fulham 2-2 Ipswich Town

7.55

via WhoScored

BlueCo’s transfer policy of signing younger players has been evident since their takeover in 2022, with Chelsea fielding the youngest team in Premier League history for a single campaign by average age.

The youthful nature of Enzo Maresca’s squad has prompted calls for Chelsea to bring in more experienced players to help balance out the team, and this could be imperative considering they’ll be a Champions League team next season.

However, the abundance of talent in their set-up is something to be greatly admired, and Brazilian starlet Estevao arrives in London this summer with a fearsome reputation.

Chelsea completed a deal for the 18-year-old last year, and he will fully link up with Maresca’s squad after their participation in the CWC.

Willian says Estevao could be Chelsea's own Lamine Yamal

Speaking to ESPN Brasil, former Chelsea star Willian has lavished praise on the teenage talent. In a glowing endorsement, Willian says that Estevao could be Chelsea’s answer to Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal.

“Without a doubt, he has a lot of potential, a lot of quality,” Willian said.

“The player has the advantage of still being so young, but with great potential like Lamine Yamal, they have a similar style.

“I hope that he can be very successful here in England playing for Chelsea, he can win many titles, score a lot of goals with the Chelsea jersey, and he will help to win titles over the years.

“My advice is that he dedicate himself to the fullest. In England, football is quite different to what he is used to. When he gets here I think he needs some extra work at the club.

“I’m sure he has a very good head. There’s no need to argue about his quality.”

Looking to get their summer transfer business underway, Aston Villa have now reportedly made contact to sign a £400,000-a-week defender ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season.

Where Aston Villa stand with PSR

Aston Villa’s biggest concern after missing out on Champions League qualification on the final day came off the pitch rather than in Unai Emery’s dressing room. After missing out, those in the Midlands could now have PSR problems on the horizon which force them to sell at least one key man this summer.

As a result, one name that could be heading for the exit door is Emiliano Martinez. The goalkeeper looked emotional in Aston Villa’s final home game of last season and rumours have since linked the Argentine goalkeeper with a move to Atletico Madrid. Martinez, however, is reportedly waiting for Manchester United this summer.

After they finished sixth to follow up their Champions League qualification in the season prior, there will be plenty of questions about the PSR rules from those at Villa Park, but before they get answers they must find solutions.

He's like Palmer: Aston Villa could have bid accepted for £30m "machine"

Unai Emery is targeting several high-profile players this summer

ByRoss Kilvington Jun 14, 2025

Football finance expert Kieran Maguire delivered an explanation as to how Aston Villa found themselves in hot water financially, saying on Sky Sports: “And remember, Villa have done very well in that competition (UCL). So that will be a plus. And they have sold some players as well, in both the last summer market and the January one.

“But I think there is still a perception that Villa will have to box clever. And of all of the clubs under pressure to sell players by June 30, I guess they’re the ones who are the club that gives the most attention because their spending in the last couple of years before getting into Europe was so extensive.”

Aston Villa make contact to sign Laporte

The Villans seem to be in a defiant mood, however, and could still spend to welcome incomings of their own this summer. According to Spanish newspaper AS via Sport Witness, Aston Villa now made contact to sign Aymeric Laporte from Al-Nassr in an attempt to beat Arsenal to the defender’s signature in the coming months.

The Gunners have also reportedly made contact, as have Athletic Club, Marseille and Inter Milan. In a hectic race, it’s Villa who will hope to swoop in and make an impressive statement by welcoming a five-time Premier League winner.

Signing Laporte won’t come cheap, given that he reportedly earns around £400,000-a-week at Al-Nassr, but he has made it no secret that adjusting to life in Saudi hasn’t been easy.

The experienced defender told reporters last year: “It’s a big change compared to Europe, but in the end it’s all adaptation. They haven’t made it easy for us. In fact, there are many players that are dissatisfied. They do look after us but not enough for my liking. That is to say, in Europe they pay you a good salary, but they take better care of you.”

The result also secured USA’s place in the next T20 World Cup in 2026

ESPNcricinfo staff14-Jun-20243:17

O’Brien: USA deserve to be in the Super Eight

Match abandoned USA have qualified for the Super Eight stage in their maiden T20 World Cup appearance, after their final group game against Ireland was washed out in Florida. The no-result gave USA five points, which was enough for a second-place finish behind India in Group A.There was heavy rain in Florida all week and the outfield in Lauderhill was extremely wet on Friday morning. There wasn’t enough time to get the outfield ready for play before the rain returned to end any chances of the match beginning.USA had begun their campaign with a victory against Canada in Dallas, and then they upset Pakistan in a Super Over to become strong contenders to qualify for the Super Eight. Though they were then beaten by India, USA came to Florida needing only one point from the match against Ireland to qualify.The result also ensured that USA would be among the automatic qualifiers for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.Friday’s washout eliminated Pakistan, Canada and Ireland from Group A, and all three teams are scheduled to play in Florida over the weekend, weather permitting. Canada play India on Saturday, while Ireland take on Pakistan on Sunday. Ireland are the only team in Group A without a win yet, having lost to India and Canada before the abandonment against USA.