Category: Transfer live

  • England confirm appointment of interim manager to replace Gareth Southgate

     

    • England announce Lee Carsley as new interim head coach
    • FA still looking for permanent replacement to Gareth Southgate
    • Three Lions to face Ireland and Finland in September

    The Football Association have confirmed Lee Carsley will take interim charge of the England men’s national team for their upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.

    Gareth Southgate confirmed shortly after Euro 2024 he would be standing down as head coach and the search for a permanent successor is underway.

    In the meantime, Under-21s boss Carsley has been promoted to oversee the Three Lions’ fixtures against the Republic of Ireland and Finland in September.

    Carsley said in a statement: “It’s an honour to step up and lead this England Squad on an interim basis. As I am very familiar with the players and the cycle of international football, it makes sense for me to guide the team while the FA continues the process to recruit a new manager.

    “My main priority is to ensure continuity and our goal is to secure promotion in the UEFA Nations League”

    FA CEO Mark Bullingham added: “Lee is a fantastic coach who is well known to the majority of our current senior squad having worked with most at international or club level.

    “He offers us a very strong interim solution and we are confident he will perform well in the UEFA Nations League games ahead. We are grateful to Lee for stepping up to manage the team while we continue with our recruitment process.”

    Ben Futcher will take on Carsley’s role as Under-21s manager for the time being.

    SPORT9JAA

  • 10 Big stars still set to move in the final month of the summer transfer window

     

    Nico Williams, Ivan Toney & 10 big stars still set to move in the final month of the summer transfer window

    A host of high-profile names could switch teams before the deadline as clubs scramble to complete their squads in time for the new season

    The 2024 summer transfer window has been a fascinating one so far, even if there haven’t been quite as many blockbuster deals as supporters might have hoped for. In the Premier League, Manchester United have been busy, bringing in promising young duo Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee for a combined fee of £95m ($122m), while Arsenal have snapped up Italy sensation Riccardo Calafiori and Chelsea have six new players on their books – including ex-Leicester City star Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and United States prospect Caleb Wiley.

    Elsewhere in Europe, Bayern Munich have raided the English top-flight for Michael Olise and Joao Palhinha, Juventus have prised Douglas Luiz away from Aston Villa and Real Madrid have finally captured long-term target Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer. None of the top clubs have really broken the bank yet, but that could well change over the next four weeks as preparations for the new campaign go into overdrive.

    GOAL is here to run down 10 big stars who are still set to switch clubs before the market slams shut on August 30, starting with one of the most deadly marksmen in the game…

    Victor Osimhen (Napoli)

    Victor Osimhen looks destined to part ways with Napoli after a turbulent 2023-24 campaign that saw the Italian giants surrender their Serie A crown in embarrassing fashion. Paris Saint-Germain has long been mooted as the most likely next destination for the Nigerian, who has hit 76 goals in 133 appearances for the Partonopei, but he has also publicly admitted he dreams of playing in the Premier League.

    Arsenal and Chelsea have been credited with an interest in Osimhen, with both clubs in desperate need of a ruthless No.9 to reach the next level, and the 25-year-old certainly has all the attributes to shine in the English top-flight. However, Napoli will only let Osimhen go if his £113m ($146m) release clause is triggered, and PSG’s need for his services is greater as they seek to secure a long-term replacement for Mbappe.

    Nico Williams (Athletic Club)

    Nico Williams is probably the most sought after player on the planet right now, and with good reason. The 22-year-old followed up a historic Copa del Rey success with Athletic Club by spearheading Spain’s run to the Euro 2024 title in Germany, showing off his dazzling pace and footwork down the left flank, leading Barcelona to put him at the top of their wishlist.

    The Spanish giants are said to be leading the race for Williams ahead of PSG, Arsenal and Chelsea, despite their well-documented financial problems, and it’s easy to imagine him fitting in well at Camp Nou alongside La Roja partner-in-crime Lamine Yamal. Athletic Club are said to be pulling out all the stops to keep hold of Williams, but his €58m (£49m/$63m) release clause still leaves them vulnerable, and he really should be making the step up to a Champions League club after such a memorable year.

    Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich)

    Despite being arguably Bayern Munich’s most reliable performer of the last decade, Kimmich’s future at the club is in serious doubt, with his contract set to expire in 2025 and no sign of an extension being agreed. A Premier League switch could beckon for the 29-year-old as Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool said to be weighing up offers, and he has the quality to walk into the starting XI at all three clubs.

    Kimmich is a combative midfielder who is versatile enough to play in a number of positions, and seems to be ageing like a fine wine based on his performances for Germany at the Euros. It has been suggested that Bayern will let him go for around £50m ($64m), which is a bargain price for a player of his quality and experience, but it remains to be seen which Premier League project he opts for.

    Ederson (Manchester City)

    The Saudi Pro League’s bid to lure away Europe’s elite has stalled slightly in recent months, but Al-Ittihad’s €55m (£46m/$60m) capture of Aston Villa midfielder Moussa Diaby served as a reminder of their financial power, and Ederson could well be the next man to turn his back on the Premier League.

    The Manchester City goalkeeper has been strongly linked with a move to Al-Ittihad – to link up with Real Madrid legend Karim Benzema – and even Pep Guardiola has admitted he is unsure whether the Brazilian will stay at Etihad Stadium.

    If Ederson does leave, he will leave behind a huge void after serving as the last line of defence for a City side that has dominated English football over the past eight years. Still, there were one or two signs that the 30-year-old’s powers are starting to wane last season, and after winning every trophy on offer in the European game, it’s possible now has his eye on a king’s ransom and a stress-free path to retirement.

    Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig)

    Williams and Yamal stole most of the headlines for Spain at the Euros, but Dani Olmo’s contribution to their success was equally important. The RB Leipzig man recorded three goals and two assists as he showed his value as both a starter and impact substitute, and the 26-year-old is now in very high demand, with Man City, Bayern and Juventus said to be on his tail.

    It is believed that Barcelona have the edge, given Olmo’s status as a La Masia academy graduate, and reports in Spain have suggested an agreement on personal terms has already been reached. But it would surely take a miracle for he Blaugrana to sign Williams AND Olmo, because Leipzig are demanding €60m (£50m/$65m) for their prized asset. This saga could continue right up until the deadline, and it would be a huge coup for City if they end up beating Barca to the punch.

    Jadon Sancho (Manchester United)

    Jadon Sancho is currently in line for a second chance at Manchester United, having mended his broken relationship with head coach Erik ten Hag on the back of a successful loan spell at his former club Borussia Dortmund. But there are no guarantees for Sancho at Old Trafford. He’s still got to compete with Marcus Rashford for a spot on the left-wing, and there will be huge pressure for him to perform after a hugely disappointing start to his career with the Red Devils.

    But there is another option for Sancho. PSG have reportedly reached an ‘agreement in principle’ to sign the England international, and if they match United’s £50m ($71m) valuation, he will be free to take on a new challenge in France. Sancho is good enough to make Ligue 1 his own personal playground, and that might yet appeal to him more than another season of uncertainty at United, who are still a long way from challenging for the biggest titles again.

    Ivan Toney (Brentford)

    Ivan Toney was being courted by elite clubs long before his eight-month ban for breaching betting rules, and although he largely underwhelmed after returning to action with Brentford in January, his stock remains as high as ever. Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea are all still keen on Toney, while according to The Athletic, he has also been discussed as an option by Manchester United’s new INEOS ownership regime.

    The report adds that although Brentford are under no pressure to sell the 28-year-old, they won’t stand in his way if they receive an offer in the region of £50m ($64m). Toney’s record of 36 Premier League goals in 85 appearances for the Bees is hugely impressive considering he’s never really had top class-service, and it would be fascinating to see him get an opportunity at a bigger club, especially after his impressive cameo displays for England at Euro 2024.

    Matthijs de Ligt (Bayern Munich)

    De Ligt’s career trajectory hasn’t gone the way most people expected since his 2019 departure from Ajax, with Bayern Munich rescuing him from a thoroughly underwhelming spell at Juventus just three years later. The Dutchman’s fortunes haven’t improved all that much at Allianz Arena, though, and he was in and out of the Bayern starting XI last season amid strong competition for places alongside Dayot Upamecano, Kim min-jae and Eric Dier.

    Bayern are reportedly set to add Germany and Bayer Leverkusen star Jonathan Tah to that defensive contingent, and so they are open to selling De Ligt, with Manchester United currently locked in talks over a permanent deal for the 24-year-old. De Ligt would be a risky signing for the Red Devils given his struggles in recent years, but he still has plenty of potential left to unlock, and may benefit from a reunion with his former Ajax boss Ten Hag.

    Raphinha (Barcelona)

    According to Spanish outlet SPORT, Al-Nassr are prepared to fork out a Saudi Pro League-record fee of €100m (£84.5m/$108.7m) to sign Raphinha from Barcelona, in a bid to strengthen the supporting cast behind poster boy Cristiano Ronaldo. The Brazilian hasn’t quite managed to live up to expectations since joining Barca from Leeds in 2022, and now seems like the perfect time to cash in.

    Al-Nassr are offering well above market value for Raphinha, and that money could be used to finalise the deals for Williams and Olmo that Catalan fans so desperately want to see. For his part, Raphinha has always insisted he wants to stay at Barca, and it would be a shame to see such a gifted player leave Europe at just 27, but the decision might be taken out of his hands.

    Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)

    Trent Alexander-Arnold is Mr Liverpool. He’s been affiliated with the club since the age of six, and was an integral part of Jurgen Klopp’s first-team revolution, which culminated in Premier League and Champions League glory. But the Klopp era is now over, and Alexander Arnold is just 11 short months away from free agency.

    Liverpool have yet to tie Alexander-Arnold down to a new contract, and Real Madrid are ready to pounce on the uncertainty surrounding the 25-year-old’s future. Rumours of an imminent transfer to Santiago Bernabeu were fuelled when Alexander-Arnold was spotted out for dinner in Los Angeles with Jude Bellingham last week, and it’s certainly true that his England team-mate could help the full-back settle in quickly to life with Los Blancos.

    This one feels slightly far-fetched at this stage, but it’s not every day that Madrid come calling. Alexander-Arnold has achieved all of his dreams at Anfield, and no one would begrudge him the chance to expand his horizons at the most successful club in the history of the sport.

  • Enzo Maresca is Chelsea’s new manager!


    Enzo Maresca is Chelsea’s new manager! Pep Guardiola’s former assistant agrees shock five-year contract at Stamford Bridge after guiding Leicester back to Premier League

    Leicester City boss Enzo Maresca has reportedly agreed to become Chelsea’s new permanent manager on a five-year contract.

    WHAT HAPPENED?

    According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have reached an agreement to make Maresca their new head coach, and he’s now set to replace Mauricio Pochettino on a long-term contract. The Blues will also have the option to extend Maresca’s stay by an extra year, which means he could potentially be in the Stamford Bridge dugout until 2030.

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Leicester are set to be paid a compensation fee by Chelsea as they bid farewell to Maresca after just one season, which saw the Italian mastermind their immediate return to the Premier League as Championship winners. Maresca had previously worked as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City and stuck to a similar tactical blueprint to his old mentor with the Foxes, who finished their Championship campaign with a whopping 97 points.

    DID YOU KNOW?

    The Evening Standard has reported that Chelsea quickly identified Maresca as their No.1 target after parting ways with Pochettino last week, despite links with several other managers, including Ipswich Town’s Kieran McKenna and departing Barcelona boss Xavi. The report adds that Maresca won Chelsea over with his plan to help their club record signing Enzo Fernandez unlock his full potential after his frustrating start to life in west London.

    WHAT NEXT FOR CHELSEA?

    Chelsea are expected to make Maresca’s arrival official in the coming days, and he will inherit a squad that managed to finish sixth in the Premier League, earning a Europa Conference League spot in the process. The 44-year-old will be on the touchline when the Blues head to the United States for their pre-season tour, with games against Wrexham, Celtic, Club America, Man City and Real Madrid already pencilled in.

    SPOR9JAA

  • 30 players set for big-money transfers in the 2024 summer transfer window

    Kylian Mbappe, Victor Osimnhen and 30 players set for big-money transfers in the 2024 summer transfer window

    We are all set for another busy few months of comings and goings across European football with some huge names potentially changing clubs
    After an extraordinarily quiet January window, the transfer cogs appear to be spinning at top speed once again. Some of the biggest names in the game are looking like they’re on the move, and they won’t come cheap, meaning we could be in for some record-breaking spending over the next few months.
    The Saudi Pro League is expected to be a big player in the market once again as they execute the second phase of their plan to permanently alter the constitution of top-level football. Meanwhile, the financial issues that prevented several Premier League clubs getting their business done this winter are set to play less of a role in proceedings this time around.
    Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton)

    The next big thing when it comes to English defenders, it seems Jarrad Branthwaite is destined for the very top after a breakout season with Everton. The centre-back formed part of one of the most staunch backlines in the Premier League, inevitably drawing admiring glances from some big hitters.
    Manchester United have been linked with him for some time, while Manchester City and Newcastle have entered the picture in the weeks leading up to the transfer window creaking open. Everton’s asking price may well prove to be a stumbling block, though, with the infamous ‘English tax’ coming into play with his £80 million ($102m) valuation.

    Gleison Bremer (Juventus)
    Juventus defender Gleison Bremer is among a host of centre-backs who could be on the move this summer. Having impressed in Serie A for both Torino and Juve, the Brazilian has admitted his desire to test himself in the Premier League or La Liga.
    It seems he has plenty of interest in England too, and the opportunity to make that dream a reality could well present itself. Manchester United have been linked with him for some time, but as the transfer period draws closer, Chelsea have emerged as another potential suitor. It’s said the Bianconeri would be willing to do business if an offer in the region of €60m (£51m/$65m) arrives.

    Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich)
    Alphonso Davies has been on Real Madrid’s radar for some time, and it was reported in February that they had reached a verbal agreement with the Canada international for a transfer to take place either this summer, or in 2025. The Spanish giants are waiting for Davies to respond to Bayern Munich’s latest extension offer before making any formal approach, however, as they refuse to spend upwards of €60m (£52m/$64m) on a player in the final year of his contract.
    There are few full-backs in the game more electrifying to watch than a fully-fit and firing Davies, and a transfer to Santiago Bernabeu feels like a natural next step for the 23-year-old. But the price has to be right for Real – who are already putting most of their resources into the Kylian Mbappe deal – and they won’t be held to ransom by Bayern, especially given the fact they already boast a top left-back in the form of Ferland Mendy.

    Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace)

    Eberechi Eze also took his game to new heights at Crystal Palace this campaign, positioning himself as a possible wild card pick for England ahead of Euro 2024 this summer.
    Eze also edged into double figures for Premier League goals and established his reputation as one of the most fearsome ball-carriers in England. Tottenham are understood to have identified him as a target and they’re unlikely to be his only suitors this summer.

    Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)
    United’s new minority owners INEOS are planning a major squad overhaul this summer, but Bruno Fernandes is one of the few members of the team who is considered untouchable. The Red Devils are still reeling from their worst-ever Premier League finish, but a relegation battle might have been on the cards without Fernandes, who quite literally carried the team after being handed the captaincy.
    However, Fernandes’ patience is running low; he wants to be fighting for major honours as he approaches the ripe old age of 30, and is not short of high-profile admirers. Bayern Munich are reportedly heading the queue for the Portuguese playmaker, with a switch to Allianz Arena likely to hold greater appeal than a prospective move to Saudi Arabia, and United may be fighting a losing battle to convince him to stick around given the long road back to the elite stage they are now facing.

    Conor Gallagher (Chelsea)
    Surely Chelsea aren’t really willing to cash in on their latest homegrown hero?! Conor Gallagher was absolutely crucial for the Blues in 2023-24, appearing in 50 of 51 games, regularly wearing the captain’s armband and playing a key role in a late-season resurgence that delivered European football.
    However, despite that and now-former manager Mauricio Pochettino’s obvious desire to keep him, all the signs seem to suggest the club’s decision-makers are willing to emotionlessly cash in on the academy product, as a potential £50m ($64m) fee would represent 100 percent profit. Chelsea’s London rivals Tottenham have been continually linked, with Aston Villa being touted as another possible destination.

    Mason Greenwood (Manchester United)

    Mason Greenwood is one of the most sought after players in Europe again, after an impressive season-long loan stint at Getafe, which has seen him record 16 goal contributions in all competitions. United are now demanding £50m ($64m) for the 22-year-old as they prioritise a full sale over another loan, and Juventus, Napoli and Atletico Madrid are all poised to swoop.
    Getafe could also make a play to sign Greenwood outright, though it has been reported he wants to play in the Champions League again. It seems the only certainty right now is that the one-cap England international will not return to Old Trafford, where he still has a contract until 2025, having recently put his £2m Manchester mansion up for rent.

    Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace)
    If there are any Palace fans reading this, we’re sorry, but unfortunately the Eagles could also lose their defensive lynchpin and captain in the summer. Marc Guehi has been remarkably consistent for the Eagles in recent years, forming a solid partnership with Joachim Anderson at the heart of the backline.
    And these performances have caught the attention of some of the Premier League big boys. Manchester United are in dire need of bolstering their back four, with Guehi believed to be one of the players they are considering signing. Should Gareth Southgate get the Old Trafford job this summer, he’d be a big fan of the move, with the England boss handing Guehi a string of Three Lions caps in recent years.

    Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle)

    After posting an alarming financial loss earlier this year, Newcastle could be forced to make at least one big sale this summer – and Bruno Guimaraes is one of their most coveted assets. The midfielder has enjoyed another impressive Premier League season, balancing his creative and defensive roles perfectly.
    Arsenal and Manchester City currently look like his most likely suitors, with Eddie Howe warning that it will take a sizeable bid to prise him away from St James’ Park. The Brazilian has a £100m ($127m) release clause in his contract that expires at the end of June, so any interested clubs will need to move quickly to avoid a summer of protracted negotiations.

    Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting CP)

    Brighton to Coventry to Sporting CP is not the most conventional route to superstardom, but Viktor Gyoekeres’ performances in Portugal mean his name is on everyone’s lips this summer.
    After missing out on Premier League promotion with the Sky Blues in 2023, Gyokeres had interest from across Europe. He eventually settled on Sporting, which has proved to be an inspired choice. Gyokeres has scored more than 40 goals this season and also chipped in with 15 assists, instantly becoming one of Europe’s most sought-after centre-forwards. Close to €100m (£85.5m/$108.6m) is understood to be Sporting’s asking price this transfer window.

    Alexander Isak (Newcastle)

    Newcastle are also set to contend with interest in another of their key performers over the coming months. Alexander Isak has exploded this season, reaching the 20-goal mark in the Premier League, with only Erling Haaland and Cole Palmer scoring more.
    His ability to hold the ball up and bring his team-mates into play will only increase his market value further, and like Guimaraes, Isak has been touted for a move to Arsenal. The similarities don’t stop there either; it’s thought the Swede would also fetch at least £100m ($127m) in the current market, too.

    Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich)

    Joshua Kimmich is another Bayern star about to enter the final year of his contract, and he is widely expected to take on a new challenge this summer. The 29-year-old has won everything there is to win at the Allianz Arena, amassing 390 appearances for the club along the way, but renewal talks have stalled, putting a host of top clubs on red alert.
    Man City, Arsenal and Manchester United are among those said to be weighing up bids, and La Liga could also be a viable option for Kimmich amid reported interest from Barcelona. It will just be a question of where he sees himself fitting in best for the final stage of his illustrious career.


    Kylian Mbappe (Paris Saint-Germain)

    The longest-running transfer saga of the modern era will finally come to an end this summer. Kylian Mbappe is almost certainly heading to Real Madrid on a free transfer, despite the fact he will have to accept a significant pay cut on his current €37m (£32m/$40m) per season deal at Paris Saint-Germain.
    The World Cup winner should still be quite content as the highest-paid player in Real’s history, though, and the prospect of him lining up alongside Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo in the final third is a frightening one. The Premier League has also been mooted as a possible destination for Mbappe, amid interest from Liverpool and Arsenal, but he was born to play under the bright lights at Santiago Bernabeu, and it’s the best place for him to go on and fulfil his Ballon d’Or ambition.

    Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich)

    A dark cloud is sitting over the Allianz Arena after Bayern’s first trophy-less season in 12 years, but Jamal Musiala is one of the few who can still hold his head up high. The 21-year-old racked up 12 goals and eight assists for Bayern despite their lack of cohesion as a collective, and looks ready to spearhead Germany’s bid for Euro 2024 glory on home soil.
    According to The Guardian, Musiala’s dazzling displays have caught the attention of Pep Guardiola, who wants to bolster his attacking midfield options at Manchester City. The Premier League champions are unlikely to be put off by Bayern’s reported £100m ($127m) valuation of Musiala, either, as the best years of his career are still very much ahead of him.

    Joao Neves (Benfica)

    Benfica’s penchant for producing world-beaters is well known, and next off the production line in Lisbon is Joao Neves. The 19-year-old has properly broken into the first team this season, missing just one game as his side missed out on the Liga Portugal title to Sporting CP.
    Unflappable in possession, the defensive midfielder is already an accomplished passer, too. Players in his mould are like gold dust in the transfer market, and it’s little surprise that a host of big teams are keen to secure his services this summer. His €120m (£102m/$130m) release clause will make things difficult for any interested parties, however.

    Darwin Nunez (Liverpool)

    Liverpool’s ‘master of chaos’ had a mixed second season at Anfield. Darwin Nunez scored a respectable 18 goals across all competitions, but endured an eight-game drought down the finishing stretch, and was guilty of missing a host of big chances as the Reds’ title challenge collapsed in spectacular fashion.
    Supporters have a right to expect more from the £85m ($108m) forward, and he further alienated a large section of the Liverpool faithful by deleting all club-related images from his Instagram account at the start of May. Nunez is a handful for any defence on his day, and has bags of potential still to unlock at 24, but he seems to be unsettled on Merseyside, and Barcelona could turn his head after reportedly identifying the Uruguayan as a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski.

    Michael Olise (Crystal Palace)

    If there was any remaining doubt that Michael Olise was an elite Premier League player, Crystal Palace’s talisman proved otherwise this season. Despite missing a considerable chunk of the campaign through injury, the Frenchman still managed to reach double figures for goals from a right-wing berth, with his return to full-fitness coinciding with the Eagles winning six of their final seven league games.
    Chelsea were extremely interested last summer, but Palace simply wouldn’t play ball. Chairman Steve Parish remains one of the toughest negotiators around, meaning Olise is not expected to depart for anything less than £60m ($76m) this summer.

    Victor Osimhen (Napoli)
    It feels as though Victor Osimhen’s love affair with Napoli is drawing to its natural conclusion after their meagre defence of their Scudetto in 2023-24. The Partonopei finished the season in mid-table and will not be able to offer European football next season as a result.
    Although Osimhen’s stock has also dipped as his goal return paled in comparison to the triumphant previous campaign, the Nigerian hitman seemingly still has plenty of potential suitors, with PSG chief among them, while Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea have all been mentioned. His £111m ($141m) release clause may act as a deterrent, though.

    Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig)

    Dani Olmo has had a couple of niggling injuries to contend with since making the move to RB Leipzig back in 2020. When he has been fit, though, the Spaniard has often been pretty sensational. A product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, Olmo is an exquisite technician, capable of playing on either wing as well as in midfield if required.
    Barcelona are understood to be keen to bring him back to Catalunya, with Leipzig holding out for at least €60m (£51m/$65m). He’s had Premier League interest in the past, too.

    Joao Palhinha (Fulham)

    Joao Palhinha was cruelly denied a dream move to Bayern Munich at the 11th hour of last summer’s transfer window, despite being in Germany ready to put pen to paper. He has since signed a new contract at Fulham and the west Londoners are determined to keep him, but surely a big move finally beckons for the Portugal international this summer?
    Whether Bayern are still interested remains to be seen, as it has been reported that outgoing manager Thomas Tuchel was a big advocate for bringing in the £56m-rated ($71m) midfield destroyer. Euro 2024 will give him a chance to put himself in the shop window if not.

    Raphinha (Barcelona)

    Brazil international Raphinha is believed to be among the cohort of players Barcelona are willing to cash in on this summer, as they continue to try to balance the books amid their ongoing financial woes. A return to the Premier League could beckon for the former Leeds winger, who is said to be valued at €80m (£68m/$86m).
    Given his pedigree in the English top flight, you wouldn’t be surprised to see a top-six club roll the dice on a player who hasn’t had the easiest time of it in Catalunya, but we’ve been here before with Barca, who have a tendency to cling onto their assets despite their crippling economic situation.

    Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

    Mohamed Salah showed real loyalty to Liverpool last summer after being targeted by Al-Ittihad, who failed with a £150m ($191m) bid for the Egyptian. However, his resolve his likely to tested again when the transfer market reopens, as the links to Saudi Arabia have only intensified over the past year, and a public fall out with Jurgen Klopp added fuel to the fire.
    A new era is now beginning at Anfield, with Klopp making way for highly-rated Feyenoord tactician Arne Slot, and Salah has strongly hinted that he wants to be part of it. Money talks, though, and if another mega offer comes in for the 31-year-old then Liverpool would be foolish not to take it seriously, especially considering his worrying decline in performance during the second half of the season.

    Jadon Sancho (Manchester United)

    Jadon Sancho’s first three years on Manchester United’s books have been a disaster. Nine goals and six assists in 55 Premier League appearances is a poor return for a £73m ($93m) player, and Erik ten Hag was met with resistance every single time he tried to challenge the winger to raise his application levels.
    But that does not mean Sancho is a lost cause. He’s rediscovered his confidence since returning to Borussia Dortmund on loan, and reminded the world just how devastating he can be when masterminding PSG’s downfall in the Champions League semi-finals, giving his stock a timely boost in the process.
    Dortmund have made it clear they want Sancho back permanently, but they may struggle to meet United’s £55m ($70m) asking price, and it’s entirely possible alternative suitors will step forward to try and beat the German side to the punch.

    Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig)

    Benjamin Sesko is no stranger to seeing his name in the transfer gossip columns. The Slovenian is a product of Red Bull’s football system, making his breakthrough in Salzburg before being moved over to RB Leipzig in summer 2023.
    He’s since taken to Bundesliga life like a duck to water, scoring 14 goals despite only starting half of his side’s games. Arsenal are said to be very interested, and his physical profile would suggest he’d have little issue adapting to the Premier League. With a €65m (£55m) release clause in his contract, several other clubs might take a look at him over the summer, too.

    Georgiy Sudakov (Shakhtar Donetsk)

    Top-quality attacking midfielders are like gold dust in the modern era, which goes some way to explaining the clamour for Giorgiy Sudakov’s signature – a player unproven in Europe’s top five leagues. Such is the 21-year-old’s ability, though, it seems one of the continent’s elite is ready to make their move.
    A wonderful technician, Sudakov has starred in a dominant Shakhtar side, with his performances and 16 goal contributions this season seemingly piquing the interest of Premier League giants Arsenal and Chelsea. Valued at a cool £65m ($83m), Shakhtar’s CEO has already admitted he will leave this summer for “a top club”.

    Jean-Clair Todibo (Nice)

    Jean-Clair Todibo has revived his career since leaving Barcelona and now seems ready for another big move after impressing for Nice in Ligue 1. He reportedly almost joined Manchester United in 2023, and the fact he plays for an INEOS-owned club means those links have intensified this year.
    A modern ball-playing centre-back, Chelsea and Tottenham are said to admire the Frenchman too, and he could come cheaper than a number of his peers as Nice are reported to be looking for as little as £40m ($50m) to let him go. Still just 24 years old, he would be a shrewd investment for the present and the future.


    Ivan Toney (Brentford)

    Having returned from an eight-month betting ban, Ivan Toney has made it abundantly clear that he plans to move on from Brentford this summer to test himself at the very highest level – his only problem might be finding a club willing to cough up the Bees’ asking price after his form dipped towards the end of the season.
    Nevertheless, Toney is a Premier League-proven hitman who may well be reaching his peak at the age of 28 and could flourish in new surroundings. It has been reported that his valuation has dropped significantly in recent months, so he could be well worth the risk for the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea or Tottenham.

    Manuel Ugarte (Paris Saint-Germain)

    PSG went all out to beat Chelsea to the signing of Manuel Ugarte last summer, handing the Sporting ace a massive five-year contract worth €10m after triggering his €60m (£52m/$64m) release clause. Ugarte had established a reputation as monstrous holding midfielder in Portugal, but the huge investment has yet to pay off for PSG, despite a promising start.
    Ugarte gradually fell down the pecking order under Luis Enrique as the 2023-24 season wore on, raising questions over his future at Parc des Princes. According to L’Equipe, PSG will let him go if they can recoup his initial fee. Juventus and AC Milan are said to be willing to hand Ugarte more regular minutes, and his aggressive style of play is an ideal fit for Serie A, but it remains to be seen whether either club will take the financial risk on a player with much still to prove at the highest level.

    Joshua Zirkzee (Bologna)

    Bologna have been one of Europe’s biggest surprise packages. Led by the much-admired Thiago Motta, they will be gracing the Champions League next season – and Joshua Zirkzee is a big reason why.
    After failing to make the grade at Bayern Munich, the Dutchman has finally began to fulfil his potential in Italy, leading the line for Motta’s side superbly. He has a €40m (£34m/$43m) release clause active this summer, with Bayern understood to hold first-option privileges, amid interest from Inter, Juventus and several Premier League clubs.

    Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad)

    The latest in a long line of smooth-passing Spanish midfielders, Zubimendi has invited admiring glances from Europe’s elite with his performances for Real Sociedad. A defensive midfelder by trade, he has been touted as the next Sergio Busquets – so it’s perhaps unsurprising that Barcelona are after him.
    Arsenal might have something to say about that, though, as they continue their search for a ball-playing No.6 to complete their midfield. Bayern Munich have been credited with an interest in the 25-year-old too, with a €60 million (£51m/$64.5m) release clause in his contract. However, La Real seem resolved to keep him.
  • Vincent Kompany will sign in as the new Bayern manager

     

    Vincent Kompany will sign in as the new Bayern manager, here we go!

    Agreement between clubs with Burnley on €12m fee, contract terms already sealed.

    Kompany will become new Bayern head coach on three year deal – it’s done after story reported on

    Monday.


    SPORT9JAA


  • Xavi’s letter to Barça fans

     Xavi’s letter to Barça fans

    “Dear friends, Sunday my stage on the bench of Barça will end. It’s never easy to leave the club of your life, but l’m very proud, after two and a half years at the head of a dressing room that has been like a second family”.

    ” want to thank the fans for the support and affection, who have always been by my side and have shown me the same love at all times as in my footballing stage”.

    “From Sunday so I will be one more fan in the stands, either now at the Olympic Stadium or in a few months at the New Camp Nou. Because before I was a player or a coach, I am a Barcelona fan and I only want the best for the club of my life”.

    “Worked with a great group of players and an awesome staff. Thanks to all of them we have been achieving the proposed objectives, also culminating last year with a League and a Super Cup”.

    This season things haven’t gone as we wanted, but we’ve let it go and helped grow a new generation of young footballers from La Masia that inspire all fans”.

    “Thank you very much to all. To the fans, the players, the staff, the club employees, the President, the Board of Directors, the sporting directors, the media and everyone with whom I have shared the journey over these two and a half seasons”.

    “I wish the best to the club that I carry in my heart. Long live Barça, I will always be your supporter”

    Xavi Hernandez

    Source Fabriziorom



    SPORT9JAA

  • Barcelona have all set with Hansi Flick to become the new manager!

     

    Barcelona have all set with

    Hansi Flick to become the new manager!

    Flick has always wanted Barça job as priority, never in talks with English clubs as reported in the last 48h..

    Now he’s just waiting for Barcelona to inform Xavi of their decision to part ways, then it will be Flick time.

    The contract is ready and was never an issue, it’s on Barça president Laporta to proceed with next steps.


    Sport9jaa.com.Ng

  • Revealed: The private deal between Chelsea and Romelu Lukaku’s agent that could see striker leave for cut price this summer

     

    Chelsea are all set to offload Romelu Lukaku in the summer for a deal that was agreed privately with the player’s agent last year.

    Chelsea set to part ways with Lukaku

    Blues agreed private deal with the player’s agent

    Striker on loan at Roma this season

    WHAT HAPPENED?

    According to Fabrizio Romano, the Blues are willing to sell the Belgian forward for a transfer fee of £38m (€44m) in the upcoming window. The player’s exit clause was decided between the Premier League giants and his representative last summer.

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Teams from across the world, including his current club AS Roma – where he is on a year-long loan – can trigger the clause to sign him permanently ahead of the 2024/25 season. He has reportedly drawn interest from several Saudi Pro League sides.

    DID YOU KNOW?

    The former Manchester United and Inter player has enjoyed a successful loan spell in Italy in the current season having scored 20 goals across all competitions in 44 appearances and provided four assists for Daniele De Rossi’s side.

    WHAT NEXT FOR ROMELU LUKAKU?
    The Belgium international will be next seen in action for his club on Thursday as they take on Bayer Leverkusen in the second leg of their Europa League semi-final fixture.
  • Mikel Arteta targets £42.5m Benjamin Sesko amid rival interest from Chelsea and Man Utd

     

    Arsenal are reportedly stepping up their interest in RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko amid rival interest from Manchester United and Chelsea.

    Arsenal step up interest in striker Sesko

    Chelsea & Man Utd keen on RB Leipzig star

    Slovenian may be available for £42.5m

    WHAT HAPPENED?

    The Gunners have been linked with the 20-year-old for a couple of months now, with the Slovenia international understood to have a £42.5 million ($53m) release clause. Following the north London outfit’s Champions League exit on Wednesday, the Evening Standard claims manager Mikel Arteta wants to add more ‘firepower’ to his squad. However, United and Chelsea are also keen on recruiting the 6ft 5in forward – who has scored 13 goals this season.

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    While Arsenal have scored 75 goals in 32 Premier League games this season, a tally only bettered by Manchester City’s 76, they do not have a clinical striker. Winger Bukayo Saka is their top scorer with 18 goals in all competitions but strikers Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah, plus false nine Kai Havertz, only have 24 goals between them. Perhaps having more of a focal point in attack, such as Sesko, is what Arsenal need to take them to the next level.

    DID YOU KNOW?

    Sesko joined Red Bull Salzburg at the age of 16 in 2019 and went onto score 29 goals in 79 matches for the Austrian Bundesliga side. The striker, who had two seasons on loan at Austrian second-tier outfit FC Liefering between 2019-2021, signed for Leipzig in 2023 for a fee in the region of £20.5m ($25.5m).

    WHAT NEXT?

    Arsenal, who are two points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City with six games remaining, will look to bounce back from their Champions League quarter-final loss to Bayern Munich when they travel to Wolves on Saturday.

    SPORT9JAA

  • Man City agree personal terms with Lucas Paqueta ahead of potential blockbuster summer move from West Ham

     

    Manchester City are expected to wrap up a long-awaited deal to sign Lucas Paqueta from West Ham after agreeing personal terms with the midfielder.

    O. City attempted to sign Paqueta last year

    O. Probe into betting activity ended pursuit

    O. Midfielder agrees to summer transfer

    WHAT HAPPENED?

    City have a personal agreement with the Brazilian in place over his wages as they prepare to sign him in the summer transfer window, Foot Mercato reports. However, the reigning European and English champions are still to strike a deal with the Hammers over a transfer fee.

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    City attempted to sign the midfielder from the east London team last summer, but they pulled out of the reported £85 million deal because an investigation into alleged betting breaches was opened up by the Football Association (FA).

    DID YOU KNOW?

    Paqueta, who has scored eight goals and registered seven assists in all competitions this season, recently opened up about the investigation into his alleged betting activity, saying: “It’s been seven months since it’s been happened and I’m co-operating, doing what’s in my power so that it can be resolved.”

    WHAT NEXT FOR WEST HAM?
    Paqueta’s current contract at West Ham runs until 2027, though there is an option to extend his stay for another year. West Ham, then, could hold out for a similar £85m ($108m) fee from City this year before they agree to let him go.