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Jermaine Jenas has lost his presenting role with Formula E following the recent BBC scandal.

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• Jenas recently involved in BBC sexting scandal
• Sacked by broadcasting company
• Now dropped by Formula E

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Jenas' career is continuing to crumble after Formula E decided to drop the former midfielder from his lead TV role. The ex-Newcastle and Tottenham man was dismissed by the BBC after recently uncovering inappropriate messages the presenter sent to colleagues and it seems that has again played a part in his most recent loss of work.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  TNT Sports announced their presenter line-up for season 11 of Formula E and did not mention Jenas at all in the reveal. Nicki Shields, previously a pit-lane reporter, will take over Jenas' duties. His removal from the show is another big blow for a man who was tipped to take over from Gary Lineker as the next Match of the Day host.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  The 41-year-old has not appeared on British television since being sacked by the BBC, although he was a pundit in October for Malaysia-based broadcaster Astro during Arsenal’s Premier League clash against Liverpool.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR JENAS?

  The future remains unknown for Jenas as he looks to bounce back from the scandal. He has apologised for his actions and appears to be taking steps to better himself in an effort to return to TV, but he may struggle to get a new gig on the big screen anytime soon.

USMNT star Christian Pulisic has warned AC Milan must improve in all areas after their unconvincing 3-2 win against Slovan Bratislava on Tuesday.

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• Pulisic scored in AC Milan win
• Was critical of his team's performance
• USMNT star went off as a 'precaution'

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Pulisic opened the scoring as the Serie A side took the lead in the Champions League clash, only to see his goal quickly cancelled out before Rafael Leao and Tammy Abraham struck in the second-half. The hosts fought back with another goal, but had a player sent off late on as the Rossoneri left with the three points.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Despite the victory, United States international Pulisic was not entirely satisfied with the way his side played as he felt they gave too many chances to the Slovakian team.

• WHAT PULISIC SAID

  "It was a difficult match. We are happy for the three points which is the most important thing, but we had to play better," he told . "It’s not easy to play here, we took the lead, they had chances, we have to do better. We want to play better. Winning is important, but we have to improve."

  He continued to : “The most important thing is that we won. But it is clear that we want to play a little better… It’s everything. We have to score more goals and defend better, we have to improve."

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  WHAT NEXT FOR MILAN?

  Pulisic was taken off after 74 minutes when his side were 3-1 up, but quashed injury fears as he said his substitution was "a precaution", meaning he will likely start again when AC Milan meet Empoli on Saturday.

As the Premier League campaign approaches, Arsenal are reportedly eyeing a move to hijack Barcelona's deal to sign an in-demand free agent for Mikel Arteta this summer.

Arsenal transfer news

Whilst the Gunners are yet to officially complete their move to sign Riccardo Calafiori, Fabrizio Romano has claimed that the Bologna defender is set to travel to London before completing a medical and joining up with his new teammates on Arsenal's tour of the United States.

The defender will arrive off the back of an impressive Euro 2024 campaign in a struggling Italy squad and a sensational season with Bologna, helping the Serie A side qualify for the Champions League against all odds.

After Calafiori, it's lining up to be the late show in north London when it comes to arrivals, with a matter of weeks until Arsenal's Premier League campaign gets underway against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Arsenal move for "sensational" £21m Neto alternative who's like Saka

The impressive international would be an excellent addition to the Gunners’ squad.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Jul 26, 2024

According to Sport in Spain, Arsenal are now eyeing a move to hijack Barcelona's deal to sign Sergi Roberto, who recently left the La Liga giants as a free agent. The Catalan club reportedly want to secure the La Masia product's signature for another year in a new contract proposal, though Arsenal and Aston Villa are among the clubs lurking and hoping to pounce.

Now 32 years old, Roberto finds himself at quite the crossroads, having never been away from Barcelona throughout his career. With reports indicating that he's personally attracted to the Premier League, however, he could finally step away from Spanish football in pursuit of one last big move.

"Marvellous" Sergi Roberto would offer crucial versatility

Signing Sergi Roberto would represent the ultimate bargain for all involved at the Emirates. The right-back offers key experience and the ability to play in midfield as well as the backline, in what could be a repeat of Oleksandr Zinchenko. Famous for arguably one of the most historic goals in Champions League history when he completed Barcelona's incredible comeback against Paris Saint-Germain in 2017, Roberto may now get the chance to bring that fame to the Gunners.

Roberto earned plenty of praise during that time of his career, with his then-manager Luis Enrique saying via FourFourTwo: "He was as marvellous as ever. He's more than a player because he does well wherever I ask him to play."

As Arsenal gear up for a third attempt to dethrone Manchester City in the Premier League, welcoming a player who knows all about winning titles would certainly go a long way for Arteta's side.

The Villans and the Magpies have not sustained the form that saw them reach the Champions League and are dropping back down the Premier League table

In the 21st century, finishing inside the Premier League's top four can be celebrated as much as winning the whole thing altogether. The riches of qualifying for the Champions League can prove transformative.

That's what took Tottenham from just another top-flight team to a member of the 'Big Six'. Since their first qualification in 2010, only three sides from beyond that bracket have cracked the top four – 2015-16 champions Leicester City, Newcastle United in 2022-23, and Aston Villa in 2023-24.

It's proven a pretty closed shop towards the top of the table. The views from the summit's peak are mostly exclusive and often a once-in-a-generation look for the outsider.

As Newcastle and Villa are discovering this season, it's one thing to crash the Champions League party, but another to stay and make yourself feel welcome. Both have stumbled through the campaign and are unlikely to rank fourth or higher come May. But just why have they found it so hard to maintain that previously upward trajectory?

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  Lacking element of surprise

  "We have to try to keep balance. I know this year is going to be more difficult," Villa boss Unai Emery said after Sunday's 3-0 loss away at Chelsea, taking his side's recent record to eight games without a win in all competitions. "We are going to try to recover our confidence and everything we are doing, as well as trying to understand this year is more difficult. We need points, now thinking of the top eight and if we want to get into the top five. We have to come back.

  "This year has been different because we are not a surprise like last year. They [opposition teams] don't have doubts now like they had last year. We were being consistent last year with the same style and a lot of the same players. This year, a lot of teams are facing us thinking we are a top-seven opponent. We have to keep calm, thinking of the next match and trying to cut this spell."

  On the pitch, that's the long and short of Villa and Newcastle's problems. There hasn't been enough evolution to match their previously striding progress up the table. Life's very different when you're the hunter rather than the hunted.

  It's why Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola were and have been able to have such extensive legacies – they set tactical trends and adapted to them as well, forever chopping and changing to suit the needs of the contemporary game.

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  Lightning in a bottle?

  Such has been Newcastle and Villa's lack of transformation from finishing fourth that you start to question how they even reached the Champions League in the first place. Were they really that much better than some of the challengers and pretenders from those respective seasons?

  It's easy to get swept up in a story or narrative when wins are falling and points and stacking up. Both Newcastle and Villa weren't expected to challenge for a spot in the top four, and it was a delightful treat when they made that leap early.

  But there's every possibility that these were simply two good-not-great teams who went on a tear and put some results together to the extent they leapfrogged the slackers in the 'Big Six'. You can only get so far without star power in the Premier League.

  Remember, before the 'Big Six', we had the 'Big Four' – Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United. All of those remain established at the top, with City's Abu Dhabi Group-backed spending propelling them into the discussion. The only outliers are Tottenham, who have followed a plan of sustainability and marginal improvement, as well as supposedly forgoing other competitions in pursuit of Champions League money – this particular element has left the fanbase divided on the work of chairman Daniel Levy.

  That's the line the outsiders have to tread. Without freedom to spend millions with little repercussion (at least to this point), you need to be supremely focused and driven to reach the top four and stay there.

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  Squads not built to cope

  Obviously every top-half Premier League team could prove hard to stop in their tracks if they had all 25 players in their first team fit and fresh for a whole season, but that's not how football works. It's a squad game.

  With the calendar full to the brim and on the brink of overflowing already, there's no respite for the game's best athletes. If you're indispensable, then you're likely undroppable week to week.

  That's especially true in teams trying to punch above their weight. It's difficult enough as is trying to put together 11 players who can challenge for major honours or a high position in the standings, let alone double that tally.

  The gap between your best starters and your worst cannot be a massive chasm. The big dogs will eat you up. Newcastle barely survived their injury crisis of 2023-24 as it derailed their form domestically and on the continent, while Villa's barren run has Emery scrambling for solutions, as calm as he has preached he is and needs to be.

  Balancing Premier League and European campaigns with a small roster is tough. It's much easier with mass rotation or without the burden of extra fixtures.

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  PSR concerns

  Most Newcastle and Villa fans will point to restrictions over their transfer activity for their decline. To which, consider this a rebuttal – stop blowing money up the wall, guys.

  Villa were prevalent spenders even before Profit & Sustainability Rules (PSR) came into effect, somehow managing to stray close to the red despite the £100 million sale of Jack Grealish. Which, to be fair, is quite remarkable and hard to bounce back from, so well done.

  The Magpies splashed the cash upon the Saudi PIF takeover in 2021, which helped them break free from relegation battles and into a new tomorrow. That's fine if it's within your means, which they were in a hassle to ensure they were by the end of June 2024.

  PSR isn't fool proof and there should probably be some amendments to stop the trading of homegrown assets for the sake of staying within limits, to ensure youngsters aren't just bargaining chips in the name of 'pure profit'.

  Newcastle were forced to sell promising midfielder Elliot Anderson to Nottingham Forest, where he is now thriving and sitting above his boyhood side in the table. Meanwhile, Villa pushed Douglas Luiz out the door to Juventus in part-exchange for two young players, Samuel Iling-Junior and Enzo Barrenechea, who have already left on loan. The best players at St James' Park and Villa Park were there for the rise and didn't just meet them at the peak.

Crystal Palace have reportedly reignited their interest in a centre-back target as they look to provide cover in the event that Marc Guehi leaves the club this summer.

Guehi on the move?

Much of the speculation surrounding Oliver Glasner's side ahead of the new Premier League season has been in the wrong direction from their perspective, with a host of their stars linked with a move away from Selhurst Park.

Michael Olise has already left, while there remains interest in his magical partner in crime Eberechi Eze, who is thought to be attracting attention from Manchester City and Tottenham among others.

Also on the wishlist of top clubs is defender Guehi, who is down to the final two years of his contract in south London and is unlikely to pen a new deal with the Eagles. Newcastle United have begun negotiations to sign the EURO 2024 star, though it is reported that Palace "are adamant they will not be selling Guehi for less than £60m", with Chelsea having a 20% sell on clause (£12m should he leave for £60m).

Guehi is "open" to the idea of moving to Tyneside, but there is also thought to be interest from Liverpool in his services and that could complicate matters for the Magpies, playing into Palace's hands in the process as they push for the maximum value from their captain.

In the event that Guehi departs, Glasner's side will be in the market for a new centre-back to partner Joachim Andersen, and are ready to turn another former Glasner pupil to plug the gap.

Centre-back back on the radar for Crystal Palace

That comes as Football Transfers report that Palace have reignited their interest in signing Wolfsburg defender Maxence Lacroix, who has long been linked with a move away from the German club.

The Frenchman is down to the final 12 months of his £59,000-a-week deal in Germany and is unlikely to pen a new contract, meaning that he could be available this summer for just €20m (£17m).

He's Haaland-esque: Crystal Palace can land dream £59m Mateta replacement

Crystal Palace eye interesting Mateta replacement

By
Connor Holden

Aug 4, 2024

He has racked up over 100 Bundesliga appearances to date and was compared to Manchester United icon Rio Ferdinand by the Bundesliga's official website when first breaking through in 2021.

"Lacroix has a certain grace on the ball that is reminiscent of former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand in his prime. Similarly able to glide out of defence and pick a forward pass to a teammate, his elegance masks a steely will to win and a healthy aggression," they wrote.

His career has not caught fire in the way many anticipated since though, and he endured a tough 2023-24 campaign in which he saw red on three occasions in just 28 appearances.

But that has not put Palace off, with Glasner having worked with the defender during the 2020-21 season, when he was considered a major talent. The now-Palace boss handed Lacroix 29 Bundesliga starts and knows him well from their time together, with the report adding that he would be "eager" to work with Lacroix once more in south London.

Any deal for the Wolfsburg man may hinge on Guehi, but should he depart the Eagles are "firmly looking" at Lacroix with "an ambition to secure his signature" before the transfer window closes.

Arsenal have received a reply to their opening bid for a Euro 2024 star amid their talks over signing Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino.

Arsenal in ongoing talks to seal Mikel Merino deal

The 28-year-old, who starred for Sociedad last season and contributed to Spain's triumph at the Euros, has been on Mikel Arteta and Edu Gaspar's radar for quite some time.

Fabrizio Romano says Arteta pushed Arsenal hard to sign star before Merino

The Spaniard is having a big say on their transfer plans this year.

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By
Emilio Galantini

Aug 9, 2024

Merino's contract situation means he could leave Sociedad for a much lesser fee than his reported £55 million release clause, with reports suggesting that Arsenal could strike an agreement for the midfielder at around £25 million.

According to reliable media sources like Fabrizio Romano, the Gunners are keen to take advantage of this situation and sign a proven top-level player, who would come in to complement the likes of Jorginho, Declan Rice and Fabio Vieira in Arsenal's midfield.

Merino scored eight goals and registered five assists across 45 appearances in all competitions last season for Sociedad, and the former Newcastle United ace bagged Spain's winner in their Euro 2024 quarter-final triumph over host nation Germany.

“He knows that Mikel Arteta is a big fan," said Romano to GiveMeSport this week.

"Mikel Arteta has been very influential this summer for Arsenal. He was pushing a lot to have Calafiori, now, similar with Merino, he is another player he would love to have at the club.

“And so the player is keen, very keen on the move. Now it depends on the clubs when they can reach an agreement on the package and on the structure of the deal.”

The ex-Osasuna gem, like his Liverpool-linked teammate Martin Zubimendi, hasn't been called up to Sociedad's next game as Arsenal attempt to iron out the final details of a deal for Merino.

Another enticing draw for Arsenal in regard to Merino is his Premier League experience with Newcastle United, so he may not need much time to get re-accustomed to Europe's most prestigious league.

Arsenal make offer to sign Ferdi Kadioglu as club reply

According to a report out of Turkey this week, Merino and Calafiori aren't the only Euro 2024 stars who Arteta wants at Arsenal this summer.

Indeed, Fenerbahce defender Ferdi Kadioglu is another player who's been on Arsenal's radar all summer. Now, it is believed Arsenal have made a £17 million offer to sign Kadioglu, who impressed for Turkey at the Euros and for his club last season.

However, the Gunners will be disappointed by Fenerbahce's response, who have rejected the bid outright and are demanding a much higher fee for interested sides.

The 24-year-old started 37 Turkish Super Lig games last season, marking himself out as one of their best players with four assists and an average 7.25 match rating over those appearances, according to WhoScored.

“Ferdi is a quality and fantastic player," said Spartak Trnava boss Michal Gasparik.

"He plays on both wings. He is a very good player”.

Manchester United sensation Amad Diallo is in 'advanced talks' with the club over a new long-term contract.

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• Diallo close to new long-term contract
• Club in 'advanced talks'
• Current deal expires in June 2025

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Diallo's existing contract at Old Trafford runs until June 30, 2025, though the club have the option to extend it by one more season. report that United are planning to tie down the youngster with a long-term contract and are in 'advanced talks' with the player. They are trying to reach an agreement with him before the end of 2024.

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  The 22-year-old has been in the limelight for his heroics in the Manchester derby on Sunday. After captain Bruno Fernandes brought United on level terms at Manchester City with an 88th-minute penalty strike, the youngster scored a brilliant second goal to seal crucial three points for his side at Etihad Stadium.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  The Red Devils have been internally discussing Diallo's contract extension ever since Ruben Amorim replaced Erik ten Hag as manager. The club consider the Ivory Coast international as an important player for the present as well as the future.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR MANCHESTER UNITED?

  A rejuvenated United side will next face Tottenham Hotspur in a Carabao Cup quarter-final on Thursday before meeting Bournemouth in the Premier League on Sunday.

The 22-year-old has surged ahead of Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho as the club's best winger – and he should be recognised as such

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was the player who used to make Manchester United fans happy when skies were grey and now there is a new smiling assassin on the block who is letting them see the sunshine amid the clouds. The Red Devils were staring down the barrel of a fourth consecutive defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium and facing three consecutive league defeats for the first time in nine years when Amad Diallo turned a wretched derby into an unforgettable win.

The winger's show-stopping late show on enemy territory has entrenched his cult-hero status among supporters after his last-gasp winner against Liverpool last season. Amad said he had been "working so hard to live this moment", but he has been bringing joy to the club for a long time already.

"I am so happy the team is very happy with me because I am a chill guy," Amad told "Every time we are training, I put a smile on everyone's face. But in the game you have to be focused and give your best. We knew today was not going to be easy because they are among the top teams. But this is a derby and you have to be more hungry than them and we showed we're hungry."

Four years after signing for United as an 18-year-old at an eye-catching £37 million ($48m) despite only playing five senior games for Atalanta, the "chill guy" is turning into the club's flag bearer. That initial investment is now handsomely paying off but the club need to show Amad how much they value him and lock down his future, ensuring he can keep them smiling for many years to come.

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  Always believing

  Amad's decisive display right at the end of the derby was both incredible and inevitable. He had always looked like the player in a red shirt who was going to make the most difference although things hadn't exactly gone his way. But he kept believing, staying alert and waiting for the right moment, such as reacting quickly when Matheus Nunes underhit a backpass and then anticipating the Portugal international's contact in the area.

  He also kept believing when he latched on to Lisandro Martinez's chipped pass and flicked the ball over Ederson before guiding it into the net. He explained: "When I have to press, I go with 100 per cent and I do not care who is there or who is not there, I go 100%. I was happy to win the penalty. I tried to shoot but I was maybe a little bit smart and saw the defender coming and he touched my legs.

  "For the second one, we know Licha is a good player to give you this ball. At the beginning, I did not believe in the ball because it was going too quickly, but I touched the ball and I scored."

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  Shining light

  Gary Neville could not contain his excitement in the commentary box, letting out a cry that was reminiscent of the infamous 'Goal-gasm' in reaction to Fernandes Torres scoring for Chelsea against Barcelona. This goal, in the Manchester derby, would have felt far more to Neville, and he spoke from the heart when he said Amad was "the only player to look like a Manchester United player". He also called him "a shining light".

  pundit Danny Murphy added: "Talk about someone trying to impress a new manager. He is competing against some really good players and now he has said to the manager 'you can't leave me out'. He was the one player on the pitch who was playing with freedom and fearlessness, and also the only one from either side who seemed to be enjoying himself and trying to make an impact whenever he got on the ball."

  The statistics backed up Murphy and Neville's assessments. Amad had 10 touches in the opposition box, more than any other player, while he also ranked top for shots on target, successful dribbles and sprints.

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  Victim of trafficking

  Amad might always have a smile on his face, but life has been far from easy for him. He left his family in the Ivory Coast when he was just 12 years old to move to Italy with false immigration papers, later becoming embroiled in a child trafficking investigation which concluded he had moved in with "fictitious parents" and used a fake name.

  Despite being the victim in the plot as he was just a child, he was fined €48,000 (£40,000/$50,000) by the Italian FA. Having first played for Italian club Boca Barco before being scouted by Atalanta, Amad then moved clubs four times in less than two years, joining United in January 2021, Rangers in January 2022 and then Sunderland in August 2022.

  Solskjaer, the manager at the time, hailed Amad as "one of the most exciting young prospects in the game, a player with all of the raw attributes that are needed to be an important player for Manchester United". He saw him as a prospect, though, rather than a ready-made player and so too did Rangers, who afforded him just four Scottish Premiership starts in a disappointing loan spell. It was in the north east of England where Amad ended up finding his feet, propelling Sunderland into the play-offs with 17 goals.

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  Frustrated with Ten Hag

  The Black Cats' boss Tony Mowbray was enamoured with the forward, who he said arrived "as just another young kid presented to the fans, doing 20 minutes here and there" before becoming "one of the first names on the team sheet" in just a few months. Mowbray backed him to succeed at United. "He undoubtedly has the talent to play at the top level," he said. "It is whether the personality will mature and grow into believing he can play on that stage. If he can get that and feel comfortable in that environment, then he has the talent to thrive there."

  Amad looked set for a big year back at United but damaged his knee in the pre-season tour of the USA, not returning to action until December. He returned to a team in which Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho were the established wingers and despite scoring the goal that knocked out Liverpool and sent United to the FA Cup semi-finals, he didn't start a Premier League game until May.

  He made a strong finish to the season, inspiring United to victory over Newcastle in their final home game and was given more opportunities early in the campaign by Ten Hag, although he didn't lock down his place. And his frustration at his secondary role under the Dutchman boiled over when Antony was brought on ahead of him in the 1-1 draw with Fenerbahce.

Wolverhampton Wanderers fans may rue the £54m sale of Pedro Neto to Chelsea, but a prudent approach this summer has ensured that Gary O'Neil's frontline is well-stocked.

Neto, moreover, has long been accepted to be Wolves' most saleable asset and his departure surprised no one. Adding to Max Kilman's £40m move to West Ham United earlier in the window, sales have crossed the £100m ballpark.

It's a healthy situation to be in, and while the Neto situation has been dealt with pleasingly, Kilman is yet to be replaced. If Wolves wish to impress in the Premier League, addressing that issue feels paramount.

Wolves transfer news

According to Football Insider, Wolves have set their sights on Sheffield United centre-back Anel Ahmedhodzic, who was one of the Blades' standout performers in the Premier League last season.

Sure, the Blades were relegated after a dismal year, but the 25-year-old proved his top-flight quality and could be a real titan in sturdier conditions at Molineux. It is perhaps for this reason that O'Neil's are ready to 'test [their] resolve' with a bid.

With a mooted market price of £20m, this feels like an affordable deal for a talented defender, and Fosun have to get it done.

Why Wolves should sign Ahmedhodzic

The obvious point: O'Neil might find himself short-handed without an exciting Kilman replacement, with the Englishman excelling in progression, playing forward to influence Wolves' attacking fluency.

Ahmedhodzic would bring the kind of steely defensive quality needed for the season ahead. Last term, in the top flight, he flattered to deceive but it was difficult to perform to the height of his level considering the catastrophic nature of the Bramall Lane team's season.

But he still managed to showcase some of his exciting qualities. As per Sofascore, the Bosnian centre-half started 29 Premier League matches, and while he was rash at times, he averaged 2.1 tackles, 3.4 ball recoveries and 4.3 clearances per game while winning 56% of his 4.5 contested duels per match – respectable numbers for one mired in the mud of a relegation scrap.

Often have relegated players been picked from established outfits and added to strengthen the ranks, so Ahmedhodzic could be the perfect player to join a Wolves team with a pleasing level of togetherness under O'Neil's leadership. The United titan, to put it another way, has yet to show the full scope of his talent.

This season, for example, he has starred across Sheffield United's opening Championship fixtures, completing 93% of his passes. A strong passing game is within his capability, and the Old Gold could help him realise that.

United averaged a measly 36% of possession in the Premier League last season, ranking bottom, whereas O'Neil's Wolves had a counter-pressing way about them but still retained the ball with greater confidence, with a 49% average that placed them 11th in that ranking.

Ahmedhodzic could bring his latent ball-playing ability to the fore while fostering his defensive acumen further, and given that FBref's player comparison model has likened him to Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite, it's definitely one to get over the line as soon as possible.

O'Neil's own Jarrad Branthwaite

Branthwaite was a revelation for Everton last season, bringing authority and a rock-solid defensive skillset that saw the Merseysiders shape into one of the Premier League's most formidable units.

Standing at 6 foot 5, he's a daunting opponent and has even been described as an "absolute monster" by talent scout Jacek Kulig for his performances over the past 12 months.

A mainstay last season, he started 35 times in the league and has been the subject of transfer interest with Manchester United this summer, though Everton have rejected the advances and maintained that the 21-year-old will only be allowed to leave for a £75m figure, placing him in the same ballpark as the Premier League's most expensive defenders: Virgil van Dijk, Harry Maguire and Wesley Fofana.

Ahmedhodzic does not have that same reputation right now, having sat at the epicentre of the Premier League's worst-ever defence last season – the Blades conceded a staggering 104 goals, branding them with an unwanted record.

But he's got talent, and a statistical deep-dive into the players' respective 2023/24 campaigns highlights a number of metrics that suggest Wolves would be wise to snap the 24-year-old up.

Neither centre-back stood out in regard to the crispness of their passing last year, but then that is principally down to Everton and Sheffield United sitting at the bottom of the year's possession charts.

But Ahmedhodzic was slightly more creative and more inclined to carry the ball forward, nearly equal to the Toffees sensation in goal-scoring and actually proving to be crisper in the tackle.

It seems like Wolves are focusing on signing a goalkeeper as the first port of call at this late stage of the transfer window, with The Athletic's David Ornstein recently revealing that the Midlands side have submitted a proposal to sign England international Aaron Ramsdale from Arsenal on a loan deal that would contain a clause to make the move permanent.

This would be a major step in the right direction and is clearly the issue currently being addressed, but Ramsdale will need a sturdy backline in front of him and Ahmedhodzic could complete the set.

Therefore, Wolves simply have to get the signing of the defender over the line. He's demonstrated that he has the right skillset to succeed in the Premier League and could ensure that a smooth season lies ahead for an ambitious outfit.

Wolves could land dream signing for Cunha in deal for "remarkable" PL star

O’Neil has plenty of money to play with following the sale of Pedro Neto

By
Ross Kilvington

Aug 17, 2024

Ahead of the 2025 MLS campaign, GOAL takes a look at five players that could use a change of scenery

Transfer season is in full swing in Europe, and MLS is also gaining momentum with signings and trades as clubs actively shape their rosters for the 2025 season.

Some teams, like Lionel Messi's Inter Miami and Brian Schmetzer's Seattle Sounders, are preparing for more than just the regular season — competitions like the FIFA Club World Cup are also on the horizon.

Messi's arrival signaled a new era of ambition and expectation for the league's now 30 teams, and big moves aren’t limited to transfers alone. Trades have played a pivotal role in shaping champions, with Darlington Nagbe’s arrivals in both Atlanta United and Columbus Crew serving as prime examples of title-winning impact.

This offseason, similarly high-caliber players are available. Some, like U.S. internationals Duncan McGuire, Julian Gressel, and Eryk Williamson, have seen their roles diminish at their current clubs. Others, like 2023 MVP Lucho Acosta and winger Robert Taylor, remain stars but might benefit from a change of scenery after a challenging 2024 campaign.

The blockbuster $2.5 million trade sending Leonardo Campana to the New England Revolution from South Beach kicked off trade season. Acosta, Gressel, Taylor, McGuire, and Williamson are five names to watch as potential candidates to follow suit.

GOAL examines and offers some insight into where the ideal destination for the next stage of their careers may lie.

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  Julian Gressel, Inter Miami

  Why he should request a trade: Gressel began 2024 as an important player for the but as the season went on, it felt as though he was deemed surplus and come the postseason, he was ignored by then-manager Tata Martino despite Miami's struggles against Atlanta United in their Round One Best-of-3 series. An unused substitute in all three matches, it showed that the club's value in him lessened throughout the season — and that he'd likely be worth more and valued more by a different team in 2025.

  GOAL's ideal landing spot: The New England Revolution — When Gressel was traded from the Vancouver Whitecaps to the Columbus Crew, the U.S. international was adamant that he wanted to return to the East Coast. After he signed with Inter Miami ahead of the 2024 season, he remained in the conference of his choice, but it was never a good fit. Still a wanted man across the league, a return to the Northeast feels like a perfect fit.

  A Providence graduate, returning to the area could feel like a homecoming for the 31-year-old and he would be the important cog of a revamped project under Caleb Porter, who has been cleaning house with the Revs after a disastrous 2024. Under Porter, he could be deployed in the midfield or the attack in a system focused on possession and stretching the pitch — two of Gressel's best qualities.

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  Luciano Acosta, FC Cincinnati

  Why he should request a trade: Acosta and FCC had a falling out following their playoff exit in November, with the former MLS MVP sharing his time may be over at the club.

  "It could be the end at the club, we don’t know," Acosta said after NYCFC eliminated them in the first round of the postseason. "I have to keep talking, planning, and take a break, give my mind a break, and think of what’s coming, what’s best for the club and for me."

  For the 30-year-old attacker, who still has ambitions to represent the USMNT, a move away from FCC may be the best way to make that happen. He's led FCC from Wooden Spoon holders in 2021 to being one of MLS' best teams, but they've never been able to take the next step — while their incoming transfer business has not particularly been successful over the past two years, either.

  If Acosta wants to end his MLS career with an MLS Cup — or trophies of a larger nature — he likely needs to leave FCC, and this feels like the right time for both parties.

  GOAL's ideal landing spot: LA Galaxy — After Campana was sent to the New England Revolution, freed up a DP slot in the buildup to the 2025 campaign. Using it on Acosta is the perfect solution.

  Ahead of their CONCACAF Champions Cup and FIFA Club World Cup pushes, Javier Mascherano will be doing everything in his power to elevate the squad prior to tournament play.

  Acosta fits perfectly in that mold, filling the gap that Diego Gomez left after his blockbuster transfer to Brighton in the English Premier League while providing another attacking option up front beneath Messi and Luis Suarez.

  Factor in that he is another strong mentor for rising young American midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi, too, and it makes too much sense.

  Acosta's experience in MLS could be the missing piece that finally gets Messi and Co. hands on their two most coveted prizes: MLS Cup and the Club World Cup.

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  Duncan McGuire, Orlando City

  Why he should request a trade: McGuire’s 2024 was a whirlwind. In January, he had signed papers and posed for photos with Blackburn ahead of a European transfer—only for a paperwork error to derail the move. He returned to Orlando City, but the club had already signed his replacement in Luis Muriel. Despite the setback, McGuire managed 18 starts across 27 appearances, scoring 10 goals.

  He also represented the USMNT at the Summer Olympics as the roster's lone striker. However, after failing to score against France and New Zealand, he lost his starting spot two matches into the competition.

  Upon return to the after the Paris Games, things didn't get much better for him, earning just one start through the remainder of the regular season into the playoffs under Oscar Pareja — even after signing a new long-term deal with the club in August. He became the club's third-string forward, behind Muriel while Ramiro Enrique emerged as the starting forward as Orlando climbed all the way to the Eastern Conference finals in the postseason.

  Falling out of favor under Pareja, his poor showing in Paris and goal-scoring woes were detrimental marks to his 2024 campaign, and as a result, perhaps a change of scenery could put him back on track in 2025. Although a move to Europe cannot be ruled out again, switching clubs stateside could prove to be beneficial for him as he looks to make one last push to make the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad while furthering his career as a professional.

  GOAL's ideal landing spot: San Jose Earthquakes or San Diego FC — With the Quakes, McGuire would be the centerpiece in a revamped squad under the guidance of former U.S. men's national team manager Bruce Arena. The club has already been linked with a move for USMNT forward Brandon Vazquez at Monterrey, so McGuire would be a forward who would make sense if things fall through with Vasquez.

  At SDFC, Mcguire would join up with former USMNT assistant Mikey Varas, as he leads the club in their debut MLS season. A manager who has a reputation of helping young players progress, Mcguire could potentially flourish under him alongside Mexico superstar Chucky Lozano.

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  Eryk Williamson, Portland Timbers

  Why he should request a trade: Williamson made just 10 starts in 2024 despite appearing in 28 regular-season matches under Portland manager Phil Neville. It was the most action he’s seen in a single campaign since entering the league in 2019 — a reflection of the persistent injuries that have repeatedly disrupted his career. Still, he showed this past season that he’s more than capable of performing at a starting level in MLS, contributing two goals and three assists to Portland’s attack, even as the team struggled defensively.

  While a spot on Mauricio Pochettino's 2026 USMNT World Cup squad seems unlikely, Williamson made a strong impression across his six international caps, with his last appearance coming in the 2021 Concacaf Gold Cup.

  At 27, Williamson has battled through adversity with the Timbers, battling through setbacks and showing flashes of his best form when healthy. A change of scenery– and perhaps a shift away from Portland’s turf surface — could be exactly what he needs to reignite his career. Anyone who’s watched him play knows there’s still plenty of quality there, and he deserves a chance to anchor a midfield in MLS.

  GOAL's ideal landing spot: LAFC — After Ilie Sanchez departed the club as a free agent and Eduard Atuesta's loan ended in 2024, LAFC manager Steve Cherundolo will be looking for at least two new midfielders heading into 2025. Williamson fits perfectly into what the club is looking for, with a defensive-minded central midfielder who presses well and pushes the ball forward well in transition.

  However, there is one major caveat to any hypothetical transfer. His girlfriend, Kelli Hubly, played alongside him in Portland with the Thorns until her contract ran out at the end of 2024, and the two parties couldn't come together over a renewal. There's a high-percentage chance that wherever she ends up next, he will likely be close — so any move, like one to LAFC, would likely involve a market with an NWSL side. In this scenario, that would be Angel City.