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Cristiano Ronaldo will be “terribly sorry” about missing a “once in a lifetime” win for his country, claims the President of Portugal, as “geniuses are like that”. All-time great CR7 was forced to sit out a 9-1 victory over Armenia through suspension, with that stunning success seeing Roberto Martinez’s side secure automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Ronaldo suspension: Why Portugal superstar is banned

Ronaldo played no part in that contest as he served a ban. The evergreen 40-year-old frontman picked up the first red card of his international career in a defeat to the Republic of Ireland in Dublin – with that dismissal coming when earning his record-extending 226th cap.

Al-Nassr striker Ronaldo was given his marching orders after swinging an elbow into Irish defender Dara O’Shea. It is yet to be determined whether FIFA will force him to sit out two more matches – which will come at next summer’s World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

AdvertisementGettyMixed emotions: Ronaldo left watching on from afar

Ronaldo will be desperate not to miss any more action as he continues to chase down 1,000 career goals and more major honours. He was denied the opportunity to fill his boots against Armenia, with Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes bagging a hat-trick in that fixture as Portugal hit nine.

Portugal President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa told reporters of the mixed emotions that CR7 will have felt while watching on from afar: “Ronaldo always has a place. He's always in our hearts. He's part of our gratitude. He must be terribly sorry he didn't come today. It's a shame. He missed a game where it was crucial for the captain to be there. But, well, geniuses are like that.

“A word for Roberto Martínez. He deserves it. People said he wouldn't make it. I still remember the team's first dinner, where the players were at one table and Martínez at another, and they said they wouldn't pay attention. He held on, he held on, and he got to where he needed to be. Of course, with a big scare, but 9-1 is a joy for all of us.”

Portugal qualify for 2026 World Cup in style

De Sousa added on Portugal booking tickets to the 2026 World Cup in stunning fashion: “This is the game of my life and the life of many Portuguese people. We've had more exciting games, which resulted in victories, but 9-1 is a once-in-a-lifetime result. And it could have been 10-1 or 11-1. It was exceptional. The team played with such spirit, with class, with speed. It was unique. It's good that there were so many children here, who will remember this game.

“We are in the final phase [of the World Cup ] and, by happy coincidence, I had scheduled the awarding of medals for the Nations League victory for today. It's a happy combination. We won the Nations League, I'm handing out the medals, after a great game, and it's the closing of a cycle, because I started with Euro 2016 and I'm ending with this qualification.”

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GettyCan Ronaldo win the World Cup before retirement?

Plans can now start to be pieced together for another shot at global glory. The general consensus is that Portugal – who can call upon the likes of Ronaldo, Fernandes, Joao Felix, Ruben Dias, Joao Neves and Vitinha – have enough talent at their disposal to compete for the grandest of prizes.

De Sousa intends to witness their pursuit of the World Cup crown, adding on Portugal’s claims to the most prestigious of trophies: “Of course. I can see it. I have a phrase that the Federation president agreed upon with me and the Prime Minister: in America, Portugal will win. Will you watch the games? If I'm invited, I'll go. If not, one or two, I'll pay out of my own pocket to go.”

Ronaldo was quick to congratulate Portugal after seeing them wrap up qualification for the 2026 World Cup. He has conceded that event will likely be his last as an international performer, but has admitted – while working on a contract at Al-Nassr through to 2027 – that he has at least a couple of years left in him before retirement is considered.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to take on the New York Yankees in the 2024 World Series and the calendar suggests they get some reinforcements for the pitching staff. Superstar Shohei Ohtani, who spent this season as a designated hitter following his second Tommy John surgery, has reached the point in his recovery timeline where he could theoretically pitch again.

This became a talking point earlier in the season when Ohtani was seen throwing batting practice pitches in August, but the Dodgers insisted back then that the plan was to keep Ohtani off the mound until next year. That plan probably hasn't changed, but the Japanese All-Star is two months further along in his recovery and everything is now on the line, with only four wins standing between Ohtani and his first-ever title. If there was ever a time where the ends justified the means, it's now.

Hall of Fame pitcher Randy Johnson appeared on Thursday's episode of to discuss all things baseball ahead of the Fall Classic and touched upon this topic. The Big Unit was firm in his stance that Ohtani should not return to the mound.

"If I were ownership or management or whatever with the Dodgers I would just let him continue to be the offensive force that he's been for the Dodgers. Then I would go into spring training and see where he's at. Hopefully he can be a big part of the rotation next year," Johnson said.

It's a reasonable take. From an outside view there feels to be far more risk than reward with Ohtani pitching at this stage, even with the World Series within reach. It's not like he won't be affecting the game in other ways.

First pitch for Game 1 of the World Series is scheduled for 8:08 p.m. ET Friday.

Records tumble at Chelmsford as hosts pile up 417 for 6 in Surrey thrashing

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay15-Aug-2025Essex 417 for 6 (Campher 123*, Benkenstein 83, Harmer 68, Critchley 58) beat Surrey 173 (Steel 49, Bennett 5-36) by 244 runsEssex’s short-term signing Curtis Campher made an instant impression with a whirlwind century amid a multi-record victory over Surrey in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup.The 26-year-old Ireland allrounder, who has won more than 100 caps, hit his third List A ton and his highest score in the format, smashing an unbeaten 123 from 68 balls less than 48 hours after flying in for a medical ahead of a three-game stint for an Essex squad down to the bare bones.He thumped six sixes and 12 fours – and his clean hitting meant each one broached no reply – to help Essex to their highest List A total of 417 for 6, and a share in a county record of 175 for the sixth wicket with Simon Harmer. Matt Critchley’s 58 from 50 balls, Luc Benkenstein’s personal-best 83 from 72 and Harmer’s equal-best 68 from 47 were overshadowed by the Irishman’s 109 minutes of mischief and mayhem.To compound the visitors’ misery, seamer Nathan Barnwell, with 2 for 112 in 10 overs, posted the most expensive bowling figures for Surrey in the format. By contrast, rookie Essex bowler Charlie Bennett returned his best figures of 5 for 36 as Surrey were dismissed for 173 to lose by a crushing 244 runs with more than 12 overs unused. It was their heaviest defeat. Only Cameron Steel, with 49, offered resistance, but of a stubborn nature rather than threatening.Critchley had hit the blue touchpaper for Essex’s first win of the campaign, when he finally hit his stride. He scored just one run from his first dozen deliveries before going on the attack against James Taylor, hammering four successive boundaries to all parts off the Surrey pace bowler.By that time he had already lost opening partner Robin Das, playing on to Taylor, and captain Tom Westley, pulling Alex French tamely to square leg.The Essex allrounder reached his own half-century from 40 balls – fifty of them coming in just 28 balls – but a 10th boundary, cut square off Barnwell, was followed by his downfall next ball when he top-edged an attempted pull.Charlie Allison had brought up the fifty stand with Critchley by coming down the wicket and lofting Yousef Majid over long leg for six. His 46 from 47 balls ended with a thin edge for French’s second scalp.For a spell Benkenstein and Campher traded maximums. Benkenstein lofting two over long leg off Steel and another off Thomas, while Campher punished some wayward bowling by Steel with a succession of big hits into and over the well-populated stands. Indeed, he took 19 from one Steel over, including two sixes over midwicket.Benkenstein’s innings came to an end when he was lbw having misjudged a delivery from Thomas that didn’t get up. That brought in Harmer, who kept step with Campher for 16 overs that questioned Surrey’s decision to put Essex in on a worn pitch.The sixth-wicket carnage ended three balls from the end of the innings when Harmer drove Barnwell uppishly to extra cover. That only brought in Simon Fernandes to hammer 12 from those remaining deliveries, including a six second ball over long leg.Surrey’s chase faltered from the start. Thomas was bowled all ends up in Bennett’s second over, Nikhil Gorantla caught at third man in the bowler’s fourth, and Rory Burns snaffled behind in his fifth. Jamie Porter had Ollie Sykes caught on the midwicket boundary before Campher re-entered the arena. With only his third ball, he had Ben Foakes caught behind to underline his all-round ability.Campher should have had a second wicket but Harmer dropped a relatively simple slip chance when Steel had reached 6. The South African offspinner paid the price as Steel launched him over the ropes in the following over.Josh Blake became Harmer’s first wicket on his return from paternity leave when he lofted into the cover before Bennett claimed his fourth by bowling Taylor and a fifth to dismiss Steel. By then the result was long beyond dispute.

If you didn’t believe that Manchester City were bona fide title contenders, well, you surely do now.

On Sunday, the serial champions crushed the reigning champions 3-0 at the Etihad, doing so with plenty to spare.

Despite the fact Erling Haaland saw an early penalty saved by Giorgi Mamardashvili, this merely momentarily delayed the Sky Blues onslaught.

Haaland headed home the opener soon after, before Nico González’s deflected shot deservedly doubled the Citizens’ advantage in first-half injury time, with Jérémy Doku curling home a clinching third; more on the brilliant Belgian in a bit.

The match marked Pep Guardiola’s 1,000th match in management and took his tally to 716 wins, which isn’t bad.

Now eyeing a seventh Premier League title, Manchester City are just four points adrift leaders Arsenal, after Mikel Arteta’s team were denied victory at the Stadium of Light on Saturday night by Brian Brobbey’s last-gasp equaliser for Sunderland.

if Man City are going to become champions of the land once again, they’ll need two of their stars from Sunday to continue to perform.

Jérémy Doku's performance against Liverpool

As noted by Opta, Jérémy Doku won 11 duels, completed seven dribbles, created three chances and registered three shots on target against Liverpool.

If you think that sounds impressive, well, that’s because it is. He is the first player to rack up such an impressive figure in a single Premier League game since Eden Hazard against West Ham in April 2019.

Doku’s thunderous strike capped off the victory as well as his own sublime display, with Gary Neville, speaking during commentary for Sky Sports, saying never before had he awarded the player of the match after 62 minutes, until today.

David Hytner of the Guardian asserted that the winger was ‘unplayable’, praising his ‘blur of tricks and direct running’, with Doku tormenting Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley, the Northern Irishman having pocketed Vinícius Júnior just a few days before.

This was Doku’s 100th appearance in sky blue, scoring just his 17th goal for the club, previously netting against Napoli and Swansea this season, his previous Premier League goal coming at Portman Road against Ipswich in mid-January.

Now though, perhaps the 23-year-old is showing signs of realising his full potential so, while he was the obvious star of the show, an under-the-radar Man City player also deserves to be heralded for their display.

Pep Guardiola's unsung Man City hero

12 months ago, when Manchester City were in complete free fall, all the talk was about how this team cannot win without Rodri.

Well, despite enjoying a brief cameo off the bench against Bournemouth last weekend, the Ballon d’Or winner was not even in the matchday squad against Borussia Dortmund nor Liverpool subsequently, which was one of the major talking points prior to kick off on Sunday.

Nevertheless, Guardiola once described Nico González as like a “mini-Rodri”, and the midfielder helped ensure his compatriot was not missed.

Nico scored the second goal, a hammer blow for Arne Slot’s team coming on the cusp of half-time, and put in a generally imperious performance, as the numbers support.

Goals

1

1st

Accurate passes

51

3rd

Passing accuracy %

88%

5th*

Defensive actions

8

3rd

Tackles won

3

2nd

Duels won

6

4th

Ground duels won

5

3rd

Touches

72

2nd

SofaScore rating

8.3

2nd

*minimum 30 passes completed.

As the table highlights, the midfielder ranked in the top four when it came to a wide variety of statistics, registering more touches than any other player in sky blue, winning five of the six ground duels he contested as well as completing 51 of 58 passes. Truth be told, this was probably his best display in blue, dominating one of the best sides in the division.

The Manchester Evening News awarded him an 8/10 for his performance, noting that the Spaniard took ‘charge of the game’.

This, in truth, should not be overly surprising.

The midfielder joined from Porto back in January for around £50m and did so with a big reputation, given that he is a La Masia graduate, breaking into the Barcelona team with fellow mononymously known midfielders Pedri and Gavi, rated as highly as both when they were teenagers.

Nevertheless, it is still invaluable for Man City that Nico is able to take a step forward in his development and has the quality to operate as a one-man midfield, allowing their attacking stars, namely Doku, Haaland and others, to shine.

With Rodri and his obvious back-up Mateo Kovačić both struggling due to ongoing injury issues, while Tijjani Reijnders appears ill-suited to the role, Nico has been thrown in at the deep end in the number 6 position, but is gracefully swimming like a swan, rather than sinking like a heavy stone, to continue that analogy.

When Manchester City return to action after the international break, they’ll do so with a tricky trip to St James’ Park, but victory over Newcastle would cut the gap at the top to just one point, ahead of the North London derby the following day.

For the here and now, on the occasion of Guardiola’s 1,000 match as a manager, it was probably fitting that a diminutive Spanish defensive midfield shone.

Pep's £230k-p/w duo look like becoming Man City's new De Bruyne & Sterling

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ByBen Gray Nov 8, 2025

Captain needed treatment on the field after apparently experiencing discomfort to his groin

Valkerie Baynes10-Jul-2025

Ben Stokes receives treatment from the physio•Getty Images

England face an anxious wait on the fitness of their captain, Ben Stokes, after he pulled up sore while batting on the first day of the third Test against India at Lord’s.Stokes was unbeaten on 39 at the close, having faced 102 balls on a slow day in which the hosts ended on 251 for 4 with Joe Root on 99 overnight.On 32, Stokes took a step forward before leaving a Nitish Kumar Reddy delivery outside off and immediately winced in pain, clutching at his right groin.Related

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He called for the physio and after some on-field treatment returned to his crease. But he was still in visible discomfort, hobbling as he set off for a single and sitting on his haunches trying to loosen up between deliveries. Stokes was stretching again as the second new ball was brought out and Root eyed a century.Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah got the ball swinging again immediately – as it had at the start of the day, making the going tough.Root thought he could reach his milestone with a glance behind point on 98 but he only managed a single as Ravindra Jadeja swooped, then beckoned for Root to come back for a second as he held onto the ball, grinning. But there was no way he was risking it, especially with Stokes’ running a concern.

“We’ll see how he pulls up tomorrow, but for me, that is partially one of my roles, to make sure that he doesn’t push himself to a ridiculous place with whatever he’s dealing with at the moment”Ollie Pope on Ben Stokes

Ollie Pope – who faced 104 balls for his 44 before falling to Jadeja on the first ball after tea – was hoping the as-yet-undiagnosed problem would improve overnight.”Fingers crossed he can do something magic and come back strong,” Pope said. “I’ve not seen him since, so fingers crossed there’s nothing too serious. But clearly we’ve got a big Test over the next four days and we’ve got a big two [at Old Trafford and The Oval] coming up as well, so it is important to try and manage him.”As vice-captain, Pope acknowledged he had a part to play in ensuring that Stokes didn’t push himself too hard in spite of the problem.”We’ll see how he pulls up tomorrow, but for me, that is partially one of my roles, to make sure that he doesn’t push himself to a ridiculous place with whatever he’s dealing with at the moment,” Pope said. “I’m sure the physios, the medics will work with him to lay out a plan and then I’ll help push him in the right direction.”2:23

Pope: We’re constantly trying to get batting balance right

Stokes was England’s most effective bowler when they won the opening Test at Headingley, having finally been able to increase his bowling workload after two bouts of surgery to repair tears in his right hamstring in the space of six months.He bowled 19 overs in India’s first innings at Edgbaston and seven at an economy rate of 3.71 in their second before the tourists won by a massive 336 runs, levelling the five-match series 1-1.Stokes’ resurgence as a bowler follows painstaking work after he underwent knee surgery in late 2023. That threw a spotlight on his penchant for exerting himself through any discomfort for the good of the team.With plenty more runs needed before any thoughts turn to his bowling in this match, England will be carefully weighing up what is good for both heading into the second day.

Celtic were in Scottish Premiership action on Sunday against Dundee, but Chris Sutton made his vehement opposition known to one Brendan Rodgers decision at Dens Park.

Celtic fall to dismal defeat against Dundee

The international break passed, and Celtic came back into things looking to close the gap on Heart of Midlothian following their victory over Kilmarnock on Saturday evening.

Truthfully, the Bhoys have been well below par this campaign and appear to be struggling in their quest to put together a convincing run of victories. This was reflected on Tayside as they turned in an abject display that left far more questions than answers.

Dundee were spirited and got themselves into a deserved two-goal lead, something that Celtic never looked like recovering from as their problems continue to show themselves at an alarming rate and the hosts earned a victory that vindicated their performance.

Daizen Maeda’s injury blow left the Bhoys short of attacking options, and they looked toothless from the outset, something that the club hierarchy has a lot to answer for in the grand scheme of things.

Remaining five points behind, they now look ahead to the toughest week of their season so far, starting off with a home clash against Sturm Graz in the Europa League before travelling to face Heart of Midlothian at Tynecastle.

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Win in Edinburgh and the gap will narrow again to two points. Lose, and an eight-point gap could stare Celtic in the face heading into a key run of fixtures between now and the November international break.

Pressure has arguably never been higher on Rodgers, even if he has been left grossly short by his hierarchy, though some believe he has a lot to answer for after another terrible day for the Scottish Premiership holders.

Chris Sutton can't believe Hyunjun Yang started vs Dundee

Speaking on Sky Sports shown via X, Sutton couldn’t believe that Hyunjun Yang started for Celtic against Dundee and made a vocal plea for the manager to take him off at half-time.

He said: “I do not understand the decision to start Yang in front of James Forrest. James Forrest, he’s getting on a bit, but you know what he’s going to do, I don’t think Yang knows what he’s going to do with the ball himself. He gives players the ball when he’s finished with it. Just get him off!”

Sutton is an outspoken Celtic pundit, but he is completely right on this occasion. Yang, alongside many others, simply put in a performance that was miles off the standard needed to claim three points at Dens Park.

Fotmob show that the £6,000 per week earner achieved a 6.1/10 match rating and had 25 touches in total, doing nothing to trouble the Dundee backline before he was hooked at half-time.

The South Korean winger was far from the only culprit, it has to be said. Celtic are in a bad place and need to improve swiftly to avoid public scrutiny of their performances multiplying.

Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele has picked up another injury and was forced off early in Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League clash with Bayern Munich. The French winger, who was crowned the best male player in the world only weeks ago, lasted barely 25 minutes before limping off in visible distress, just moments after seeing what he thought was an equaliser ruled out by VAR.

The goal that wasn’t

In the 23rd minute, Dembele thought he had given PSG hope. A lofted cross from Achraf Hakimi was met by the 28-year-old’s chest before he poked it into the Bayern net. But celebrations turned to disappointment within seconds as VAR intervened. After a lengthy review, the replays showed Dembele had strayed fractionally offside in the build-up. The goal was chalked off, and Bayern’s lead, earned earlier through Luis Díaz’s tidy finish, remained intact, as the mood inside the stadium turned sour. Only two minutes later, the situation worsened as Demele, grimacing and clutching his thigh, signalled to the bench. Luis Enrique immediately called for a substitution, replacing him with Bradley Barcola. He strode straight down the tunnel, visibly frustrated, as the Parc des Princes fell into a stunned silence.

AdvertisementAFPA familiar and frightening sight

For PSG fans, this was a painful case of deja vu as just days earlier, Dembele had sparked injury fears during PSG’s 1-0 league win over OGC Nice. Having come off the bench in that game, cameras caught the winger in conversation with Achraf Hakimi during stoppage time, clearly distressed. "It hurts, it hurts so bad," he was caught saying as he pointed to his right hamstring. "I'm hurting in my hamstring…I’m hurting too much." The comments immediately set alarm bells ringing in Paris. Dembele has battled hamstring problems throughout his career, right from his Barcelona days, and it appeared another setback was looming just as he was rediscovering top form.

Luis Enrique’s reassurance proves hollow

PSG manager Luis Enrique had tried to ease fears before the Bayern clash, insisting that his star man was "fully fit". 

He said: “There’s no risk, he’s fully fit. He’s completed all training sessions over the last two weeks and played the last two matches. His physical condition is improving.”

But within half an hour, that optimism crumbled. Dembele's sprint down the tunnel told its story of frustration and a player who knows his body all too well. It was his fourth appearance since recovering from the hamstring injury suffered while on international duty with France in September, but now there’s genuine concern that the Ballon d’Or winner faces yet another long spell on the sidelines. 

Speaking to Canal+ after the match, Luis Enrique said: "I don't know. I think it has nothing to do with the previous injury. It's something new. We need to be very careful, we're looking to improve the players' condition."

With Dembele gone, PSG’s attacking spark dimmed. Bayern, ruthless as ever, wasted little time pressing their advantage. Diaz doubled his tally seven minutes later, punishing a disjointed PSG backline with a thunderous strike. However, just before half-time, Diaz launched into a reckless tackle on Hakimi, catching the Moroccan full-back’s ankle with a high, late challenge from behind. Hakimi screamed in agony, rolling on the turf as medics rushed in. Referee Maurizio Mariani initially showed a yellow card but was summoned to the monitor. After reviewing the tackle, the official had no choice but to brandish a straight red. He was carried off, tears streaming down his face, as team-mates gathered around him. The timing could not be worse with Hakimi expected to captain Morocco at the Africa Cup of Nations next month on home soil. Now, it remains to be seen if the injury rules him out of the tournament, which will be a devastating blow for the country.

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AFPPSG left counting the cost

With Hakimi injured, Dembele out, and tempers fraying, Paris looked like a team unravelling. By full-time, PSG’s night had gone from frustrating to disastrous. Joao Neves managed to pull one back in the 74th minute, but Bayern held firm to seal a 2-1 victory. For Luis Enrique, the defeat is about more than lost points, as it’s about mounting injuries that plague the reigning champions. Vincent Kompany’s side now sit firmly at the summit of the Champions League group stage table with 12 points from four matches. They must already have their eyes on the next challenge, which is a heavyweight clash against Arsenal at the Emirates on November 26. It will be a titanic clash with the top two going at each other for top spot.

Why don’t we park the negativity for a moment: Liverpool have won the Premier League in Arne Slot’s season, and with plenty of time to spare at that.

You may have seen on social media that Slot is partying out in Ibiza, while Virgil van Dijk has taken the lads off to Dubai for a mini-break to celebrate Trent Alexander-Arnold before his contentious move to Real Madrid as a free agent.

This is amusing to watch, not least because the Reds still have to play Brighton & Hove Albion at the AMEX on Sunday before the culminating game of the campaign against Crystal Palace at Anfield in two weeks. But it highlights the club’s staggering success this year, so dominant throughout.

To think that FSG’s new iteration achieved league gold with only Federico Chiesa added to the first-team squad. Signings are needed now, and no mistake, with sporting director Richard Hughes acting swiftly to seal a deal for Jeremie Frimpong, Liverpool’s right-back-in-waiting.

Why Liverpool are signing Jeremie Frimpong

Frimpong has scored 30 goals and supplied 44 assists across 190 matches for Bayer Leverkusen. The 24-year-old is rapid, physically robust and dynamic, and if Liverpool’s data-driven team are convinced, fans should be too.

According to Fabrizio Romano, advanced discussions are underway, with details pertaining to the structure of the €35m (about £30m) release clause being ironed out.

Frimpong differs greatly from Alexander-Arnold but he will add an attacking dimension to Liverpool’s backline, ranking among the top 6% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues this term for goal contributions and the top 2% for progressive carries per 90, as per FBref.

24/25

48

5

12

23/24

47

14

12

22/23

48

9

11

21/22

34

2

8

20/21

13

0

1

The Netherlands star will be a great addition, one who will tussle with Conor Bradley for that number one spot. However, Liverpool are planning surgery across three quarters of the backline, and there’s an even better deal currently in the works.

Liverpool lead race for new defender

While Milos Kerkez remains the top target at left-back, it’s unlikely Liverpool will advance their intrigue, given Bournemouth still have it all to play for in the Premier League.

Transfer Focus

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

Dean Huijsen also plays for the Cherries, but the young centre-back is being pursued by almost every top team worth their salt, with a £50m release clause that demands a decision on his future in the coming weeks.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Liverpool are ready to lodge an official bid for Huijsen to trigger that clause, though Real Madrid are interested too and it’s felt the young star would be interested in moving to the Spanish capital.

Of course, Liverpool are an interesting destination themselves. According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, not only is a decision is forthcoming, but Liverpool are alongside Arsenal in leading the race.

A decision will indeed be made soon, and FSG must surely be ready to seal the deal with a first major central defensive signing since Ibrahima Konate arrived from RB Leipzig for £36m in May 2021.

Why Dean Huijsen would be Slot's perfect signing

Romano’s revelation suggests a conclusion to this saga will be found soon, and FSG must ensure they are doing all they can to complete Slot’s backline with the young star.

Huijsen really is “the most in-demand centre-back in the world,” as has been noted by analyst Ben Mattinson. At the moment, the race is absolutely open, and Liverpool can only do all they can to convince the Spain international that Anfield presents the best step forward in his career.

Joining Bournemouth from Juventus in a deal worth £15m last summer, Huijsen has established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout young stars, playing every minute of his side’s past 23 fixtures.

Would it be fair to say he’d be a better signing than Frimpong for Slot’s trophy-winning Reds? In fairness, Huijsen is regarded as the “ultimate modern-day centre-back” by Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp, and he’s got the statistics to back it up.

As per Sofascore, the 20-year-old has averaged almost three tackles and interceptions per game this term, winning 61% of his aerial battles and keeping seven clean sheets for Andoni Iraola’s side. It’s hardly surprising he’s been named a “world-class” star in the making by one analyst.

Honestly, there’s no question really that he’d be a better signing than Frimpong, not least having proven himself in the Premier League, while bearing all the traits needed to become a superstar in Slot’s Liverpool set-up. Who knows, given his left-footed inclination, maybe Huijsen could even succeed Van Dijk on the left side.

As per FBref, Huijsen ranks among the top 7% of defenders in the Premier League this season for goal involvements, the top 7% for shot-creating actions, the top 13% for progressive passes and the top 9% for progressive carries per 90, effectively illustrating a technical aptitude and athletic ability that marry into his core defensive quality.

Given the uncertainty around Ibrahima Konate, who has been confirmed to have seen contract talks stagnate with just one year remaining on his current deal, Liverpool must surely accelerate their plans to sign Huijsen, insofar as such efforts will hold any sway. Of course, they can canvass a proposal for the ages, one which promises a standout role in a standout team.

We’d love to watch Huijsen spray balls out into the path of an electric-bursting Frimpong next season, but there’s no question the Spanish man is the one that FSG should go for, should they need to prioritise.

A Salah-esque signing: Liverpool agree personal terms with "insane" target

Liverpool are ready to begin their summer shopping spree.

ByAngus Sinclair May 13, 2025

Manchester United are set for a crucial summer under boss Ruben Amorim, with the off-season the first real opportunity to get his feet under the table to make the changes he desires.

January was the first chance he had to make the changes he wanted, signing Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven to add to the first-team squad, with more additions expected in the coming months.

However, alongside new signings, departures are desperately needed to free up the wage budget and create funds to allow for the potential arrivals ahead of the Premier League season in 2025/26.

Countless players may be moved on and allowed to kickstart their careers elsewhere, as the owners look to avoid a repeat of the current campaign, which has seen them occupy a place in the bottom half.

With the window rapidly approaching, Amorim has already wasted no time in identifying potential targets to bolster his chances of being a success during his first full year at the helm.

An update on United’s hunt for new signings this summer

The cost-cutting operation in place at Old Trafford in recent months could make funds difficult to come by for the manager over the summer, restricting the additions he could possibly make.

However, Atalanta midfielder Ederson has already emerged as a key target for the club, with progress already being made in an attempt to provide needed depth in the middle of the park.

It was confirmed that the Red Devils were already in talks with the Serie A outfit over a potential move for the 25-year-old who’s made 29 league starts this season.

He’s not the only player who has appeared on their radar in recent days, with Real Betis sensation Jesus Rodriguez another player on their list ahead of the summer.

According to one Spanish outlet, United have made a swap offer for the 19-year-old forward, which would see big-money attacker Antony move in the opposite direction on a permanent basis – allowing them to bypass the Spaniard’s £42m release clause.

The Brazilian is currently spending the second half of 2024/25 on loan with the LaLiga side, with Amorim’s men looking to take advantage of their interest in signing him by moving for youngster Rodriguez.

Why United’s £42m target could be their next Amad

Ivorian attacker Amad Diallo has endured an excellent breakthrough year at Old Trafford after the former Sporting CP boss took the reins, enjoying increased minutes within the side as a result.

He’s made 36 appearances across all competitions, registering nine goals and seven assists, including the winner against local rivals Manchester City at the Etihad.

However, his progress has been restricted in recent months, missing the last 10 weeks of first-team action after suffering an ankle issue during a training session.

Despite originally being ruled out for the remainder of the campaign, Amorim confirmed this week he’s set to return to training, potentially playing a key role between now and the end of May.

They could land another version of Amad in the form of Rodriguez, signing a talented young forward from a European club to try and push them back in the right direction.

When comparing his stats to those of the current Red Devils star, he’s managed to match or outperform him in numerous key areas – highlighting how much of a superb addition he would be.

Games played

17

22

Goals & assists

2

12

Shot-on-target accuracy

36%

32%

Shots on target per game

0.8

0.7

Take-ons completed

2.7

2

Carries into final third

3.1

2.6

Fouls won

3.3

1.3

The Betis talent, who’s been labelled “outstanding” by analyst Ben Mattinson, may have registered fewer combined goals and assists, but he’s notched a higher shot-on-target rate – showcasing his clinical nature.

He’s also managed to complete more of the take-ons that he’s attempted to date, along with more carries into the final third, having all of the tools to provide others in attacking areas.

Should the club manage to complete a swap deal with Antony moving in the opposite direction, it would be a phenomenal piece of business, using him as a bargaining tool to get themselves a superb young prospect.

It’s evident from the figures the Spaniard has produced this year, he is a talent who will hand Amorim the quality to try and make amends for their dismal season throughout 2024/25.

Better than Cunha: Man Utd in contact to sign another "world-class" forward

Manchester United could be about to land a star who could transform their fortunes in attacking areas.

ByEthan Lamb Apr 25, 2025

Arsenal have prepared an offer to sign a “dominant” attacking gem who’s drawn comparisons with Brazil legend Neymar, with sporting director Andrea Berta already having a fee in mind to put forward.

Arsenal targeting two wingers and a striker this summer

Berta, who’s set to work in tandem on the club’s recruitment with manager Mikel Arteta, arrives at N5 with a glowing reputation after 12 successful years at Atlético Madrid.

Arteta has "serious" wish to sign £40m star with Arsenal contact made

The Gunners boss is “huge fan”.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Apr 16, 2025

The 53-year-old was responsible for key transfer deals at the Wanda Metropolitano, including the signings of Jan Oblak, Marcos Llorente, Rodri, Antoine Griezmann, Luis Suárez, Yannick Carrasco and noteworthy names, with supporters now hoping he can replicate his excellent pieces of business in north London.

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

April 23rd

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

Arsenal’s board are set to back Berta with a significant transfer kitty this summer, which GiveMeSport estimates could be up to £300 million on as many as seven major signings before the beginning of 2025/2026.

Three items on their agenda include the potential acquisitions of a left-winger, right-winger and striker.

Arsenal have already held talks with the representatives of Nico Williams, who’s expected to leave Athletic Bilbao this summer, while it is also believed that they’re in ongoing communication with Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman’s agents as well.

Arsenal have also been told the price for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, according to Fabrizio Romano, with Berta sent a “clear” message in recent days/weeks that the Sweden international will cost around £60 million.

It is pretty evident that a new attacker or two will be coming to the Emirates Stadium, and it is now believed Berta has his eyes firmly on a rising star in Brazil.

Arsenal prepare bid for Atlético Mineiro starlet Gabriel Veneno

According to journalist Lucas Tanaka, that man is teenage forward Gabriel Veneno, who is earning quite the reputation in South America.

The 15-year-old right-winger has even drawn comparisons to Neymar due to his dribbling ability, with Future Ballers on X also branding Veneno a “dominant force” in one-v-one situations and an exceptional dribbler.

Tanaka believes Arsenal already have an offer prepared for Veneno, but he cannot reveal the exact nature of his bid for now.

“Here’s some exclusive information on Gabriel Veneno. The jewel of Atletico is considered a jewel by the people who follow the youth team,” said Tanaka on YouTube.

“Remember he’s in the under-16s, he’ll be 16 in July. He was called up to the Brazilian national team under-16s last year. If I’m not mistaken he’s an attacking midfielder who likes to play on the right wing, pulling inside.

“Gabriel Veneno is being watched and approached by a big European club, Arsenal.

“Arsenal in England is keeping an eye on Gabriel Veneno. I already have the value of the possible offer that they’re thinking of sending in the middle of the year, but I can’t give you the value yet.”