Manchester City are now keen on hijacking Manchester United’s move for an “incredible” player, who is set to be available for £35m this summer, according to a report.
Man City's summer rebuild continues
Pep Guardiola has made major changes to his squad this summer, with the Man City boss looking to reclaim the Premier League crown from Liverpool, and Phil Foden believes the rebuild was necessary after a disappointing 2024-25 campaign.
Foden said: “It is needed after last season, bringing in fresh legs and the new additions have done well. They have settled very quickly.
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“We can all see their quality from the Club World Cup and what they bring to the team. We have got a big squad at the moment but I think it is definitely needed. I’m looking forward to the season and linking up with players that I like to play with and enjoying it really.”
Bad news for Doku: Man City preparing £87m bid for "world class" forward
As Manchester City seek to reclaim the Premier League title, they are preparing an £87m bid to sign a “world class” attacker who’s better than Doku.
ByBen Gray Aug 6, 2025
It is certainly true that Guardiola is blessed with a large squad, and having added Nico Gonzalez in the winter, before bringing in Tijjani Reijnders this summer, there are plenty of options in the middle of the park.
However, according to a report from Takvim, Man City are now keen on signing Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara, who is also being targeted by Man United, with the Red Devils even set to make a formal offer for his services in the coming days.
The Turkish club are reluctant to sanction Sara’s departure this summer, but they could be tempted if they receive an offer of €40m (£35m), amid widespread interest from the Premier League.
AZ Alkmaar's Ernest Poku and Seiya Maikuma in action with Galatasaray'sBarisAlperYilmaz
Leeds United, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Nottingham Forest, Everton and Aston Villa are also credited with an interest in the Brazilian, although United’s interest appears to be the most advanced, with an offer in the works.
"Incredible" Sara could flourish in the Premier League
The 26-year-old has experience in England, performing remarkably well for Norwich City in the 2023-24 campaign, picking up 13 goals and 12 assists in 46 Championship outings.
That season alone proved the maestro is more than ready to make the step-up to the Premier League, but he has since gone on to prove himself in Turkey too, amassing 11 league goal contributions last season as Galatasaray went on to win the title.
As such, Sara could flourish at the Etihad Stadium, although there are some doubts over whether he would be a necessary signing for Man City, given that Guardiola is already well-stocked in central midfield.
Arsenal star Alessia Russo has been confirmed as the highest-rated Women's Super League player in the soon-to-be released EA Sports FC 26 game.
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Cover featuring Zlatan Ibrahimovic recreating a photo of his younger self You’ll get up to 6,000 FC Points over two months, a Season 1 Premium Pass and an additional Player Evolution slotUntradeable Icon Player item included
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$59.99
Buy Standard
Standard Edition
It's available across PC, PlayStation and XboxFeatures over 20,000 players, 750+ teams, over 120 stadiums, and 35+ leaguesExperience Manager Career like never before with all-new Manager Live Challenges
From
$69.99
BuyUltimate
Ultimate Edition
Cover featuring Zlatan Ibrahimovic recreating a photo of his younger self You’ll get up to 6,000 FC Points over two months, a Season 1 Premium Pass and an additional Player Evolution slotUntradeable Icon Player item included
From
$89.99
Buy+ Pre Order Bonus
Standard Edition + PO Bonus
Pre-order by 26 September for bonus inclusions Bonus will include Archetype Unlock Consumable, 2 Double AXP for 10 Matches and 3 ICON Career PlayersWill also include 5-Star Coach & 5-Star Youth Scout and Manager Live Challenge Content
From
$59.99
Buy Standard
Standard Edition
It's available across PC, PlayStation and XboxFeatures over 20,000 players, 750+ teams, over 120 stadiums, and 35+ leaguesExperience Manager Career like never before with all-new Manager Live Challenges
From
$69.99
BuyUltimate
Ultimate Edition
Cover featuring Zlatan Ibrahimovic recreating a photo of his younger self You’ll get up to 6,000 FC Points over two months, a Season 1 Premium Pass and an additional Player Evolution slotUntradeable Icon Player item included
From
$89.99
Buy+ Pre Order Bonus
Standard Edition + PO Bonus
Pre-order by 26 September for bonus inclusions Bonus will include Archetype Unlock Consumable, 2 Double AXP for 10 Matches and 3 ICON Career PlayersWill also include 5-Star Coach & 5-Star Youth Scout and Manager Live Challenge Content
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Buy EA Sports FC 26 ratings revealedRusso tops WSL rankingsLionesses score highly as wellFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱EA Sports FC 26 RUSSO LEADS PLAYER RATINGS WITH CALDENTEY & SHAW
Gunners striker Russo and Manchester City forward Khadija Shaw were joint-top WSL scorers last term with 12, and now they, alongside Arsenal ace and player of the season Mariona Caldentey, have been given 89 ratings – the best in the division. Chelsea's Guro Reiten is fourth at 88, and Arsenal's Chloe Kelly is tied with fellow Lionesses Lucy Bronze, Leah Williamson, Beth Mead, Lauren Hemp, and Millie Bright on 87. Ella Toone is the top-ranked Manchester United player in 16th with 85.
AdvertisementEA SPORTS FC 26 TOP WSL RATINGS
Top 26 Barclays Women's Super League
Rank
First Name
Last Name
Common Name
OVR (Overall ratings)
Position
Team
League
1
Alessia
Russo
89
ST
Arsenal
Barclays WSL
2
María Francesca
Caldentey Oliver
Mariona
89
CM
Arsenal
Barclays WSL
3
Khadija
Shaw
89
ST
Manchester City
Barclays WSL
4
Guro
Reiten
88
LM
Chelsea
Barclays WSL
5
Chloe
Kelly
87
RM
Arsenal
Barclays WSL
6
Lucy
Bronze
87
RB
Chelsea
Barclays WSL
7
Leah
Williamson
87
CB
Arsenal
Barclays WSL
8
Beth
Mead
87
RM
Arsenal
Barclays WSL
9
Lauren
Hemp
87
LW
Manchester City
Barclays WSL
10
Katie
McCabe
87
LB
Arsenal
Barclays WSL
11
Millie
Bright
87
CB
Chelsea
Barclays WSL
12
Sam
Kerr
87
ST
Chelsea
Barclays WSL
13
Grace
Geyoro
86
CM
London City
Barclays WSL
14
Sandy
Baltimore
85
LM
Chelsea
Barclays WSL
15
Erin
Cuthbert
85
CDM
Chelsea
Barclays WSL
16
Ella
Toone
85
CAM
Manchester Utd
Barclays WSL
17
Caitlin
Foord
85
LM
Arsenal
Barclays WSL
18
Yui
Hasegawa
85
CDM
Manchester City
Barclays WSL
19
Vivianne
A
85
ST
Manchester City
Barclays WSL
20
Kim
Little
85
CDM
Arsenal
Barclays WSL
21
Lauren
James
85
RM
Chelsea
Barclays WSL
22
Naomi
Girma
85
CB
Chelsea
Barclays WSL
23
Keira
Walsh
85
CDM
Chelsea
Barclays WSL
24
Chiamaka
Nnadozie
85
GK
Brighton
Barclays WSL
25
Hannah
Hampton
84
GK
Chelsea
Barclays WSL
26
Sjoeke
Nüsken
84
CDM
Chelsea
Barclays WSL
EA Sports FC 26ARSENAL DOMINATE WSL TOP 10 BUT NOT EUROPE'S
While Russo, Caldentey, and Shaw lead the WSL pack, which features six Arsenal players in the top 10, they don't make up the top three in Europe. Spain stars Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmati are tied on 91, and Barcelona team-mate Caroline Graham Hansen is third at 90. Incidentally, the Lionesses may have been helped in the player ratings after beating Spain in the Euros final this summer.
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EA Sports FC 26 Ultimate Edition is being launched on September 19, 2025, but the Standard Edition of the game is out a week later on September 26. In the meantime, WSL action continues over the course of this weekend.
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The future of Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak continues to dominate headlines as he hopes to sign for Liverpool within the month.
Arne Slot has welcomed a range of high-quality signings to his fold since winning the Premier League in his first season in charge, but the cream of the summer crop perhaps lies yet ahead.
Isak was described as “the best striker in the world, bar none” by analyst Raj Chohan for his performances across the recent season, scoring 27 goals across all competitions as United qualified for the Champions League and won the Carabao Cup (against Liverpool in the final).
Liverpool have seen a £120m bid knocked back by the Magpies, and may yet return depending on developments over the coming weeks, with Isak determined to join the Premier League champions.
But this isn’t the only area that sporting director Richard Hughes will need to look at, for Slot needs another central defender if he is to succeed in attacking the many different fronts of the 2025/26 campaign.
And Hughes has a few different options in mind.
Liverpool scouting new defender
Having sold Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen for £35m, Liverpool are light on their feet in central defence, with Joe Gomez’s minor Achille injury exacerbating the situation.
That’s why FSG have shown a vested interest in Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, who has just one year remaining on his contract at Selhurst Park.
Guehi would be the perfect fully-formed addition to join Virgil van Dijk and the rest, but Liverpool will not overpay.
However, previous interest in Dean Huijsen this year emphasises the need for more quality and depth at the rearguard, and Liverpool may turn to an up-and-coming talent who has performed highly on scouting tests.
Indeed, according to Liverpool correspondent Lewis Steele, the Reds have been monitoring the situation of 21-year-old defender Konstantinos Koulierakis, who plays for the German club Wolfsburg.
Wolfsburg defender Konstantinos Koulierakis
Koulierakis might not be ready for a starting role, week on week, for Slot’s Merseysiders, but he’s making steady progress and is highly rated.
The Greek talent has also been chased by Aston Villa and Real Madrid in 2025 and has a price tag of €50m (£42m).
Why Liverpool should sign Konstantinos Koulierakis
Described as a “mature and complete centre-back” who belies his youth and inexperience by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Koulierakis is a dynamic defender with the perfect style of play for the Premier League scene, having been likened to Manchester City star Josko Gvardiol.
Finland's Benjamin Kallman in action with Greece's KonstantinosKoulierakis
As per Sofascore, the up-and-comer won 59% of his duels in the German top-flight last year and averaged 4.6 clearances per game, and his fundamental early career development in the Bundesliga could even lead him to become Van Dijk’s next version of Joel Matip.
A cult hero and a crucial part of the Jurgen Klopp era, Matip was forced into an agonising early retirement in December 2023 after injuring his knee against Fulham in the Premier League.
The towering defender joined Liverpool on a free transfer after his contract with Schalke had expired in 2016. What a signing. That assist for Divock Origi in the Champions League final stands out as the apotheosis of his illustrious career, but he provided steely support across eight seasons in total.
23/24
14
–
–
22/23
21
2
–
21/22
43
3
3
20/21
12
1
2
19/20
13
2
–
18/19
31
1
1
17/18
35
1
–
16/17
32
1
–
Known for his mazy, physique-belying runs upfield and his slick partnership with Van Dijk, the Cameroonian contributed greatly at Anfield, all the more impressive given that he was signed on a free transfer, Klopp’s second signing after replacing Brendan Rodgers.
Van Dijk once said, “I wish I had Matip’s quality!” That, surely, emphasises the level of ability that Liverpool once had in their defensive ranks, and given that Koulierakis has been considered tactically comparable to Gvardiol, it might be the perfect move to land a new partner for the Dutch skipper in Slot’s side.
The 6 foot 1 Koulierakis gained a wealth of experience in his homeland with PAOK before making the leap over to the German scene one year ago, and he actually has 106 senior appearances to his name across the two outfits, with 14 caps for Greece besides.
Ranked among the top 2% of centre-backs in the Bundesliga last season for switches too, as per FBref, Koulierakis likes to promote expansive passing play and make an impact both with crunching challenges and attacking inspiration.
In that way, he has an offensive side to his game as a central defender that offers slight shades to Matip.
ousmane-diomande-joel-matip-liverpool-opinion
Liverpool would surely prefer to sign Guehi this summer, given his experience and reputation as one of the Premier League’s best centre-backs, but Palace’s stance will make the final comment on that one.
Ibrahima Konate is believed to be hopeful that he and Liverpool might reach an agreement over a new contract, and that he would remain on Merseyside over the coming years, signing this Wolfsburg gem might prove the perfect swoop for the Reds.
Ibrahima Konate warming up for Liverpool
Konate and Van Dijk will continue to star as Slot’s recognised defensive partnership over the next few years, but Koulierakis has proven himself to have the potential to thrive at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
And with Real Madrid yet again registering their interest in a player somehow tied to Liverpool, FSG would be wise to forge ahead and get this one over the line as soon as possible, should the pursuit of Guehi prove fruitless.
Shades of Suarez: Liverpool can forget Isak by signing 'world's best CF'
Liverpool saw an official bid for Alexander Isak rejected by Newcastle on Friday.
Liverpool are now looking to sign an attacking superstar who has been likened to Florian Wirtz to replace Luis Diaz in the summer transfer window, according to a fresh claim.
Diaz linked with Liverpool summer exit
The future of Diaz has been a big talking point at Anfield in recent months, with the 28-year-old not exactly committing his future to the Reds, hinting that “negotiations” have taken place over an exit.
“We’re there, negotiating. We’ll see what can happen, for us and for the club. We’ll try to do our best and make the best decision. We’re in the process of negotiations, talking with the club, with Liverpool, with everyone who’s approaching us. But I’m very calm where I am, you know, very happy. Trying to make the best decision, now.”
Bayern Munich appear to be the front-runners to snap up Diaz before the summer transfer window reaches its conclusion, but it remains to be seen what his decision will be, with Liverpool reportedly not willing to hand him a contract extension.
If the Colombia international does move on, a top-quality replacement will need to be found by Liverpool, with Lyon’s Malick Fofana one player who has been mentioned as an option, as well as Newcastle United ace Anthony Gordon, who was backed up come in last year.
Liverpool express interest in Real Madrid's Rodrygo
According to AS, Liverpool have expressed an interest in signing Real Madrid superstar Rodrygo to replace Diaz this summer, should the Colombian leave Anfield.
The 24-year-old Madrid ace is valued at as much as £112m by the La Liga giants, which is almost as much as the £116m the Reds paid Bayer Leverkusen for Wirtz, who he has been compared to as a player by FBref.
Rodrygo is arguably one of the world’s best wide attacking players currently, so the idea of him in a Liverpool shirt is a mouthwatering prospect.
The Brazil international has enjoyed a hugely successful spell with Madrid, winning three La Liga titles and two Champions League crowns, among other trophies, while Carlo Ancelotti has lauded him in the past.
“He is a special striker, he can play in all positions. He is fast, smart and effective one on one. The learning is over. He is a Real Madrid player for all purposes.”
In reality, though, Liverpool’s chances of signing Rodrygo appear to be unlikely, given the amount of money they would have to pay for him, having already spent a record-breaking amount on Wirtz.
Slot's next Wirtz: Liverpool in contact to sign "the new Haaland" for £78m
Liverpool are planning to sign a new striker in the summer transfer market.
By
Angus Sinclair
Jul 14, 2025
While the Reds’ finances appear to be good this summer, being able to splash out the same amount again feels like a stretch too far, and there is also no guarantee that Diaz will depart.
تحدث الإعلامي أحمد شوبير عن كواليس تعادل الزمالك مع الجونة في المباراة التي جمعت الفريقين مساء أمس ضمن منافسات الدوري الممتاز، مؤكدًا أن الأبيض أهدر نقطتين ثمينتين في سباق القمة.
وقال شوبير في تصريحات عبر برنامجه الإذاعي صباح اليوم الأربعاء: “لا توجد ظروف أفضل من تلك التي خاض فيها الزمالك مباراته أمام الجونة، صحيح أن الأهلي فاز على حرس الحدود، لكن مستواه لم يكن جيدًا، وجماهيره كانت غاضبة جدًا، وكان واضحًا على مواقع التواصل الاجتماعي أن هناك حالة استياء”.
وتابع: “الزمالك واجه الجونة في القاهرة، وكنت قد أكدت قبل اللقاء أن الأهلي مرشح نظريًا للفوز على حرس الحدود، والزمالك مرشح نظرياً للفوز على الجونة، لكن ما هو نظري شيء وما يحدث في الملعب شيء مختلف تمامًا”.
وأضاف: “المباراة كانت صعبة للغاية، فقد هدد الجونة مرمى الزمالك بتسديدة قوية اصطدمت بالعارضة، قبل أن يسجل الزمالك هدفه الأول في الدقيقة السابعة والعشرين عن طريق عدي الدباغ بعد عرضية رائعة من ناصر ماهر، حارس مرمى الجونة محمد علاء كان متألقاً بشكل لافت، وتصدى للعديد من الفرص الخطيرة”.
طالع أيضًا | ميدو يهاجم مجلس الزمالك بعد التعادل مع الجونة ويتهمهم باستفزاز اللاعبين
وواصل: “مع مرور الوقت أجرى الزمالك عدة تغييرات، حيث دفع بعمر جابر وأحمد عبد الرحيم إيشو وأحمد حمدي وعمرو ناصر، لكن يانيك فيريرا ارتكب كارثة قبل أن يحسم مواجهة الجونة، فأراح بعض اللاعبين وخسر نقطتين غاليتين، لأنه يُفكر في مباراة الأهلي، وسمح لـ بيزيرا بأن يحصل على بطاقة صفراء في المباراة السابقة حتى يتمكن من المشاركة أمام الأهلي، الحقيقة أن كل مباراة في الدوري بثلاث نقاط، ولا يجوز التفريط في أي مواجهة مهما كان الخصم”.
واختتم: “قرأت بيان مجلس إدارة الزمالك قبل المباراة واستغربت كثيرًا من توقيته ومضمونه، فقد تحدث عن أزمة أرض السادس من أكتوبر، بينما اللاعبون لا علاقة لهم بهذه القصة، هم يريدون فقط الحصول على مستحقاتهم المالية، كان من الأفضل تأجيل البيان بدلاً من إصداره عشية لقاء مهم”.
There is a serious rain threat over the entire game, with bad weather forecast for the whole week
Ashish Pant15-Oct-2024Persistent and occasionally heavy rain in Bengaluru has forced the cancellation of India’s training session the day before the first Test against New Zealand at the city’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The session, originally slotted for 9.30am, was first postponed by an hour and then cancelled altogether with the rain showing no signs of relenting.New Zealand ‘s training session, slotted for 1.30pm, did take place*, but in the indoor facility at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy, also in the Chinnaswamy premises.The Indian Meteorological Department has forecast rains for the rest of the week, which could seriously affect the Test match. There is a 70% to 90% chance of rain on the first and second days of the Test, and a yellow alert has also been issued for many places in the state of Karnataka (of which Bengaluru is a part).Bengaluru has experienced a lot of rainfall for the past week. It rained on Monday as well, two days before the game, but both teams managed to finish their respective training sessions. India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma also had time to get a good look at the surface, which was followed by a long discussion with the pitch curator.There was rain in Bengaluru all through Monday night and Tuesday morning, and the covers at the Chinnaswamy stayed in place. There was some activity when the rain stopped for a bit around 1pm, and the covers were being moved a bit, but within half an hour the clouds opened up again and the covers were back in place.
Absolutely pelting down in Bengaluru a day before the first #INDvNZ Test. India team practice delayed, and this doesn’t look like stopping anytime soon @ESPNcricinfo pic.twitter.com/pJQEHwun52
— Ashish Pant (@ashishpant43) October 15, 2024
The weather had taken away roughly half the playing time of India’s last home Test, in Kanpur against Bangladesh just over two weeks ago, but India still managed to win the game with some quick run-scoring and fantastic bowling.New Zealand’s tour of the subcontinent has also had its share of weather woes – their first Test of the tour, a non-World Test Championship (WTC) game against Afghanistan in Greater Noida, couldn’t be played at all, though the lack of proper drainage facilities at the venue played as big a role as the weather in that case.The Chinnaswamy Stadium, however, has a world-class drainage facility. The venue has a subsurface aeration system installed, which is designed to allow play to begin within minutes of the rain ceasing.That was apparent on Tuesday when, despite rain lashing down for close to six hours, there were no signs of puddles on the outfield. The only small pool of water was around the edges of the covers. It can be assumed that on match days, if the rain relents, play won’t take much time to resume, unlike in Kanpur where a soggy outfield delayed proceedings for hours.India are coming into this Test on the back of a 2-0 win against Bangladesh while New Zealand suffered a 2-0 loss in Sri Lanka. India are perched at the top of the WTC rankings and a 3-0 series win here will go a long way towards helping them seal a third straight WTC final berth. New Zealand, currently placed sixth, are also not out of the race yet.
England find reverse-swing to make key inroads after Leach’s early breakthroughs
Andrew Miller15-Oct-2024
Kamran Ghulam made a hundred on debut•Getty Images
There has been precious little for Pakistan cricket to cheer in recent months, but on the opening day of the second Test in Multan, Kamran Ghulam provided a moment of unbridled joy as he brought up a gutsy century in his maiden Test innings, to carry the fight for his embattled team.Though he fell late in the day for 118, bowled by Shoaib Bashir as he looked to stay proactive with the close of play looming, Ghulam’s debut efforts helped to lift Pakistan to 259 for 5 – scarcely riches by the standards that England were dishing up on this very same surface last week, but the beginnings of a score nonetheless.Despite Pakistan’s experience in the first Test, when their first-innings 556 ended up on the wrong side of an innings defeat, Ghulam’s resolute efforts – allied to a career-best 77 from Saim Ayub and an atypically entrenched 37 not out from Mohammad Rizwan – kept Pakistan on course for the sort of 300-plus score that could yet be competitive if their spin-heavy attack can take advantage of a pitch that had been heavily watered and dried with industrial fans in the four-day turnaround between Tests.The danger for Pakistan, however, may yet come from the weapons that they won’t be able to deploy. Despite two early wickets for Jack Leach, who has now claimed nine in three innings on this surface to reassert his status as England’s senior spinner, their most pronounced threat came through a mid-afternoon spell of reverse-swing, excellently harnessed by a three-pronged seam attack. Uniquely, all three hail from Durham, among them Ben Stokes, who was back to lead the team for the first time since his hamstring tear in August. In opting to ditch both Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah for this contest, much will be resting on their lone quick, Aamer Jamal, if Pakistan hope to utilise similar skills.All such considerations can wait for now, thanks to the efforts of Ghulam, who – at the age of 29 – was the second oldest Pakistani to record a debut century. He achieved the feat with a gleeful swing through the leg-side off Joe Root, after an anxious wait in the 90s that had encompassed the evening drinks break. A few more moments of delay could not perturb him, however, after more than a decade of service in Pakistan’s Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, in which time he might have assumed that his haul of more than 4500 runs at 49 would forever be overlooked.His innings had begun at 19 for 2 in the tenth over, after Leach – thrown the ball early after Stokes’ quick assessment of the surface – had become the first England spinner to strike twice so early in a Test match since Johnny Briggs in 1889. His impact threatened another meltdown to match Pakistan’s fourth-evening collapse in the first Test, but Ghulam proved his mettle from the outset, showcasing his familiarity with the arid conditions and his faith in the methods that had finally got him noticed.His first boundary was a composed launch for six back over Leach’s head, and in easing through to his first half-century from 104 balls, he recorded a milestone that had eluded his more illustrious compatriot, Babar Azam, in the 18 out-of-form innings that had resulted in his omission.Brydon Carse produced a key breakthrough with the old ball•Getty Images
Ghulam had faced just two deliveries of fast bowling in his first 120, however, when Stokes brought himself into the attack midway through the afternoon, and the challenge instantly went up a notch. In his first over, Stokes found a fat edge that flew at a catchable height through the vacant slip cordon, and when a second edge fell short soon afterwards, Root found himself donning a helmet four yards from the bat in a bid to make any further chance count.The breakthrough, however, arrived at the other end. Ayub’s reputation had suffered in this series, largely as a consequence of his hopelessly misfiring opening partnership with Abdullah Shafique, which at least reached double-figures for the first time in nine innings. It didn’t get much further, however, as Leach bowled Shafique for 7 to reduce Pakistan to 15 for 1, before Shan Masood clipped on the up to Zak Crawley at midwicket for 3.In isolation, however, Ayub has been a qualified success at the top of Pakistan’s order, and this was his third half-century in four first innings, following his twin fifties against Bangladesh last month. But, with tea approaching, and England beginning to make the ball talk, Matthew Potts threatened his outside edge with a diet of hooping outswingers from over the wicket, before Stokes pouched a firm push through the line at a very straight silly mid-off (168 for 3).After tea, Brydon Carse, energetic as ever, roughed up Saud Shakeel with an excellent short ball, then found his edge for 4 with an even better 140kph/87mph delivery that fizzed through to Jamie Smith behind the stumps. And England’s position could have been stronger still had Ben Duckett clung on to a loose slap from Ghulam, on 79, as he chose to take the attack to the returning Leach and almost paid the price at mid-on.The value of Stokes’ economy with his seamers throughout a morning session was brought to bear in the evening, with Carse helping to keep Rizwan under the cosh for 19 deliveries without scoring before Potts took over and so nearly landed an innings-altering blow. His first delivery to Rizwan, on 6 at the time, zipped past the outside edge and into Smith’s gloves, but England declined to use a review – even though replays showed that the ball had grazed the splice of his bat.England’s endeavours were worthy of another breakthrough before the close, and though he had once again been the weaker link in the attack, Bashir obliged with a critical strike late in the day. Armed with the second new ball, he skidded a good-length delivery past Ghulam’s tired charge, and clipped the top of leg to prise a critical opening that could yet make the difference in Pakistan’s quest for a serviceable first innings.
Manchester United need key additions in all areas of the pitch if they are to stand any chance of rising up the Premier League table during the 2025/26 campaign.
The Red Devils have showcased in recent times that they’re no longer one of the sides to be feared in the division, with Old Trafford no longer the fortress it once was.
Ruben Amorim’s side slid down the table last time around, ending the season in 15th place, a finish that was the club’s lowest since the division’s formation back in 1992.
Manchester United manager RubenAmorimreacts
However, it remains to be seen how much funding the boss will have at his disposal this window, potentially needing to rely on outgoings before he can make the desired additions he craves.
The likes of Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans were all released at the end of their respective deals, freeing up needed budget to allow Amorim to get busy in the market.
The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer
Midfielders have seemingly emerged as key targets for United in recent days, with Lyon star Corentin Tolisso being named as a potential addition this summer.
Reports in recent days have linked the 30-year-old with a £20m move to Old Trafford, after the hierarchy entered talks with his current side over a deal for his signature.
Olympique Lyonnais' CorentinTolissocelebrates scoring their first goal with teammates
However, he’s not the only player currently on their radar, with Juventus star Douglas Luiz still remaining as a possible target, according to Football Insider.
Their report claims that the Red Devils are leading the race for the Brazilian midfielder, who looks almost certain to leave the club this summer, after making just three starts following his £42m move last year.
It also states that they could face competition from Everton and Nottingham Forest for the 27-year-old’s signature, leading to a loan-to-buy offer currently being mooted.
Why United’s latest target could be Amorim’s own Pogba
Paul Pogba is a player who will remain in United’s history for a very long time, after he joined the club in a record £89m deal from Juventus back in the summer of 2016.
The Frenchman rejoined the club just four years after leaving them on a free transfer, with his return costing them a pretty penny and one which certainly raised eyebrows.
He made over 200 appearances during his second stint with the Red Devils, lasting just under six years, scoring on 39 occasions – including a superb strike against Swansea City.
However, Pogba would ultimately fall down the pecking order once more, leaving on a free transfer for the second time in 2022, re-joining former club Juventus in the process.
There’s no doubt he possessed a lot of quality, something which can also be said about current target Luiz – who could follow in the 32-year-old’s footsteps in joining from the Old Lady.
Douglas Luiz in action for Juventus.
He also possesses a superb strike on him, but the Brazilian’s underlying stats from his time in Serie A could make him a superb piece of business for Amorim’s side next campaign.
The Brazilian, who’s been labelled “sensational” by Gary Lineker, registered 5.9 progressive passes per 90, with 2.7 progressive carries per 90, showcasing his talents in driving forward and finding a teammate at any given opportunity.
Games played
19
Progressive passes
5.9
Progressive carries
2.7
Tackles won
2.1
Tackle success rate
68%
Take-on success
79%
Aerials won
56%
He also won 2.1 tackles per 90, whilst winning 68% of the dispossession attempts he’s entered, capable of regaining possession before handing chances to those in forward areas – as seen by his superb tallies with the ball at his feet.
Luiz would be the perfect box-to-box option, as demonstrated by his 79% take-on success rate, having the capability to drive forward before making the killer pass to a teammate.
Given the interest from elsewhere, United will have to act quickly to avoid missing out on a deal for his signature, with one of their rivals subsequently strengthening as a result.
If he can get anywhere near the levels produced by Pogba during his time at Old Trafford, it would be a superb addition and one that could catapult the side up the table next time around.
Amorim's next Gyokeres: Man Utd make contact to sign "world-class" £86m CF
Manchester United appear to be making a move for a new striker this summer.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has admitted that he wants to add more players to his attacking arsenal before the end of the summer transfer window.
Speaking after the 1-0 win over St Mirren, the Hoops boss said: “It’s just about improving. There’s areas that we want to improve in the forward line. That’s something that we hope we can do over these remaining weeks.”
The Scottish Premiership champions kicked off their defence of the title with a win, thanks to a late goal from Luke McCowan, but it was far from an assured performance.
Celtic manager BrendanRodgersbefore the match
There were some underwhelming performances from a number of Celtic players across the park on Sunday, and one of those flops was Hyun-jun Yang.
Why Celtic need to sign a new right winger
After selling Nicolas Kuhn to Como, the South Korean forward appears to be the first-choice right-wing option for the Hoops, and he does not look ready for that responsibility.
Yang is a very capable and useful squad player for Celtic to have, as evidenced by his return of six goals and six assists in 34 appearances in all competitions last term.
The 23-year-old forward has not shown that he can deliver outstanding quality on a consistent basis, though, and failed to register a single shot, completed dribble, or chance created in almost an hour against St Mirren.
Yang did not take his opportunity to show that he can be the replacement for Kuhn, which is why the club should be pushing to bring in a new right winger to allow Rodgers to ditch the South Korea international from the starting XI.
Calcio Mercato recently reported that Celtic are interested in an ambitious loan swoop for Liverpool outcast Federico Chiesa, alongside Premier League side Fulham.
Why Celtic should sign Federico Chiesa
The Italy international, who is reportedly on £150k-per-week wages at Anfield, would come in as a big upgrade on Yang and allow the manager to drop the current Hoops forward down to the bench.
Chiesa, who was described as a “top-level player” by commentator Seb Hutchinson, only made 14 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool last season, starting once in the Premier League, which means that it is difficult to judge him on his time in England.
Liverpool's FedericoChiesaand Alexis Mac Allister
The 27-year-old star’s form for Juventus in the 2023/24 campaign, prior to his move to Anfield, though, suggests that he could be a terrific player for Rodgers to call upon.
23/24 Serie A
Federico Chiesa
Percentile rank vs wingers
xG
6.43
Top 32%
Goals
9
Top 23%
Shots on target
27
Top 14%
xA
5.58
Top 3%
Chances created
54
Top 3%
Crosses completed
40
Top 3%
Assists
2
Top 38%
Stats via FotMob
As you can see in the table above, Chiesa caught the eye as both a goalscorer and a creative threat across 33 outings in the Serie A for the Old Lady that term.
The Italian forward scored more goals (nine) in one of Europe’s major leagues than Yang has managed in over two years at Celtic in all competitions (seven), which speaks to the gap in quality between the two right-sided attackers when it comes to scoring goals.
Chiesa, who scored 32 goals during his time at Juventus, could thrive if given regular game time as a loan signing for the Scottish giants, after a year of riding the bench for Liverpool.
The Italy international thrived as a regular for the Old Lady in the 2023/24 campaign and could get back to his best, providing a regular threat as a scorer and a creator of goals, by coming in to replace Yang as a starter at Parkhead.
Federico Chiesa in action for Liverpool
It is not an easy deal for Celtic to do, though, as he is a full international who has proven himself in one of the best leagues in Europe, in Italy, so is likely to have plenty of suitors, including the aforementioned Fulham.
If the Scottish giants can find a way to agree a deal with Liverpool and convince Chiesa to make the move, though, then Rodgers can ruthlessly ditch Yang from the starting XI.
Gus Atkinson has been awarded the Bob Willis Trophy for England’s Player of the Year after a debut Test summer in which he collected 34 wickets as well as scoring his maiden hundred.Atkinson collected the award, voted for by members of the Cricket Writers’ Club, at the Kia Oval on Tuesday. The annual awards ceremony also saw Shoaib Bashir named NV Play Young Player of the Year, the latest winner of the CWC award dating back to 1950.Sophie Ecclestone won the JM Finn Women’s Cricket Award, while Ryana MacDonald-Gay was voted Emerging Cricketer. Liam Dawson, last month named the Professional Cricketers’ Association men’s player of the year, claimed the County Championship prize.”I was just hoping to make my England Test debut, and to have the summer that I’ve had, it’s a huge honour and to get this award at the end of it tops it off,” Atkinson said.”My debut, obviously taking 12 wickets was very special, and playing in Jimmy Anderson’s last Test was a big honour. Probably my favourite moment was that century against Sri Lanka.”Bashir has gone from virtual unknown to England’s first-choice spinner in the last 12 months, claiming three Test five-fors – including a match-winning haul in the second Test against West Indies at Trent Bridge. He picked up the prestigious CWC award for players under the age of 21 at the start of the summer.”Two years ago, I didn’t have a county,” Bashir said. “It’s been really special. With a lot of hard work, I’m thankful to be playing for my country. Long may it continue.”It was very special, first time I’d played at Trent Bridge. For me to take that last wicket and seal the deal to make it 2-0 in the series, it was one of the highlights of my season.”Other winners of the CWC awards included England Physical Disability opening batter Brendon Parr, who was presented with the Lord’s Taverners charity’s Disability Cricketer of the Year award.James Anderson and the cast of Tailenders took the Peter Smith Award for outstanding presentation of cricket to the public, and the Derek Hodgson Cricket Book of the year was won by David Kynaston and Harry Ricketts for.Cricket Writers’ Club chair Dean Wilson said: “Huge congratulations to all our award winners, reflecting another terrific year of cricket for all members of the media to cover.”At a time of unprecedented change in the game on and off the field, there are precious few opportunities to pause and reflect and honour the efforts of those who bring so much joy.”Whether it is the skill and guile of Sophie Ecclestone and Shoaib Bashir, or the excellence of Gus Atkinson or Brendon Parr, there has been much to admire. Long may that continue.”