The last few weeks have been quite extraordinary for Arsenal.

The club has gone from signing no one as their rivals made additions to already securing three impressive players in Martin Zubimendi, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Christian Norgaard, and they aren’t done yet.

The promising Valencia defender Christian Mosquera had his medical this afternoon, the goalscoring monster Viktor Gyokeres looks like he’ll be on the plane to preseason on Saturday, and Noni Madueke could be announced at any moment.

The latter will add some quality depth to the squad and could even push for a starting role on the left, although, based on reports, Arsenal might be pushing for an even more exciting attacking signing this summer.

Arsenal target star more exciting than Madueke

It would be fair to say that when news first broke of Arsenal’s interest in Madueke, the reaction from the fanbase wasn’t entirely positive.

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

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In fact, it got so vitriolic at one point that murals outside the stadium were vandalised, and journalist Sam Dean questions whether a big-money signing had ever resulted in such backlash.

However, as you’d expect, the club pushed on and ended up reaching an agreement worth up to £52m for the player, who has passed his medical and should be announced either today or tomorrow.

Madueke might have an uphill battle to win over some at the Emirates, but he’s undeniably talented, and Arteta would not have wanted him if he did not think he could add something to the squad.

With that said, it now looks like the North Londoners have switched their attention to another wide talent, someone who would undoubtedly be a more exciting addition than the former Chelsea man.

At least that is according to a recent report from GIVEMESPORT, which claims Arsenal have entered fresh talks with Rodrygo’s representatives over a potential move.

The report has revealed that if the Real Madrid star moves to the Emirates, he’d want a contract that made him the top earner, which would see him surpass Kai Havertz, who is currently making £280k-per-week.

The story does not reveal how much the Gunners might have to pay to secure their man, but reports from earlier this week claim that an offer of around £80m should suffice.

It would be a massive financial investment to bring in Rodrygo, but he’s proven in recent years that he would be worth it, and a far more exciting transfer than Madueke at that.

Why Rodrygo would be more exciting than Madueke

Starting with the indisputable, the first reason Rodrygo would be a more exciting signing than Madueke this summer is the simple fact that he’s more effective.

For example, despite being played out of his favoured left-wing position, the 24-year-old scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists in 54 appearances, totalling 3452 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.16 games, or every 138.08 minutes.

In contrast, the Englishman scored 11 goals and five assists in 46 appearances, totalling 2647 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.87 games, or every 165.43 minutes.

Rodrygo vs Madueke in 24/25

Players

Rodrygo

Madueke

Appearances

54

46

Minutes

3452′

2647′

Goals

14

11

Assists

11

5

Goal Involvements per Match

0.46

0.34

Minutes per Goal Involvement

138.08′

165.43′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

The second reason is that the game-changing “monster,” as dubbed by Arsenal journalist Eduardo Hagn, would bring with him so much more top-level experience.

For example, he’s won two La Liga titles with Los Blancos and played a pivotal role in two Champions League triumphs as well.

In fact, of the 25 goals he has scored in the competition, to go along with his 14 assists, eight of them have been game-winning goals, and eight have come in the knockout rounds.

Finally, and this may be somewhat superficial, the Real ace wouldn’t be another player making the all-too-common move from Stamford Bridge, a journey some fans have become particularly tired of seeing.

Ultimately, Madueke will provide Arsenal with some much-needed depth in attacking areas, but if it happens, there is no denying that Rodrygo’s signing would be far, far more exciting.

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Posts ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 16, 2025

Manchester United are now willing to trigger the £8m release clause required to sign a “fantastic” Casemiro replacement, according to a report.

Casemiro's future at Man Utd

Widespread recent reports have suggested that Casemiro wants to stay at Man United, following talks with new Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti, which could be viewed as a positive, given that the 33-year-old ended the season very well.

The 33-year-old made it clear he was proud of the way he was able to force his way back into the starting XI, saying: “Of course, you want to win titles, but one of the most successful seasons of my career, without a doubt, was this one. For turning things around, with hard work and dedication.”

However, there have been suggestions that the former Real Madrid man is not the player he once was, with Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher famously claiming the midfielder should call it a day at the top level and move to the MLS or Saudi Arabia.

According to a report from Spain, United are now looking at replacements for Casemiro, given that the Brazilian is past his best, and they are willing to trigger the £8m release clause in Wilfred Ndidi’s Leicester City contract.

The Red Devils don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to sign Ndidi for such a low fee, having tracked the midfielder for quite some time, and the fact he is experienced in the Premier League means it shouldn’t take too long to adapt to life at Old Trafford.

The 28-year-old is viewed as a long-term replacement for Casemiro, but there is also a possibility the two midfielders are used interchangeably next season, should the Brazil international remain at the club.

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ByBrett Worthington Jun 30, 2025 Ndidi could be "fantastic" Casemiro replacement

Should Casemiro decide he wants to stay at Old Trafford, it will be difficult to get him off the books, given that the central midfielder remains under contract for another year, and his £350k-a-week wages could be prohibitive for potential suitors.

However, there are signs that Ndidi could be a solid replacement for the maestro on a long-term basis, having performed very well across some key defensive metrics over the past year, despite Leicester’s relegation from the top flight.

Statistic

Average per 90

Tackles

3.29 (95th percentile)

Blocks

1.82 (93rd percentile)

Clearances

3.10 (97th percentile)

Aerials won

2.36 (96th percentile)

Not only that, but the Nigerian has been lauded as “fantastic” by members of the media, and he is vastly experienced at Premier League level, having made 220 appearances in the competition.

At just £8m, Ndidi could be a bargain addition to Ruben Amorim’s squad, but it doesn’t look like Casemiro will be on the move in the near future.

Centurion Ryan Higgins became this summer’s second batter to reach 1,000 runs in the Vitality County Championship as Middlesex batted themselves to an almost certain draw against Yorkshire on day three at Headingley.Unbeaten all-rounder Higgins, who followed Glamorgan batter Colin Ingram’s lead after he achieved the feat on day two, top-scored with 117 off 210 balls in Middlesex’s 441 for five as they replied to Yorkshire’s first-innings 601 for six declared.Higgins posted his fifth hundred of the ongoing Division Two campaign, in his 10th appearance, and was joined in posting a century by opener Sam Robson with 108 off 219 balls.Higgins was slightly more aggressive against an accurate spin-led Yorkshire attack, as reaching his hundred with a six suggests, while Robson’s innings came on the ground where he scored his only Test century for England 10 years ago.Another ex-England player, Dom Bess, claimed four for 168 in 64 overs of off-spin.Robson started day three 65 not out, with Middlesex 141 for one, and he went on to record the 35th first-class century of an impressive career including seven Test appearances in 2014.Having been trapped lbw defending against Bess, before lunch, Robson then watched Higgins build on his good work and see his side to the verge of the 452 follow-on target late in the day.Robson’s England century – 127 – came in the first innings at Headingley against Sri Lanka, a Test the visitors won in June 2014. It was the now 35-year-old’s second of seven home appearances before being discarded.Jonathan Trott acted as a locum opener alongside Sir Alastair Cook for a West Indies tour in early 2015 before Adam Lyth took over for that summer’s home series against New Zealand and then Australia.Ironically, Lyth is playing in this game for Yorkshire and bowled at Robson late on day one.Lyth also played seven home summer Tests before discarded, and his only century came at Headingley.Robson was expertly watchful against the rare bursts of seam but mainly spin in the form of Bess, Lyth and Dan Moriarty, and he worked well off his legs.Having shared 61 for the first wicket with Mark Stoneman either side of tea on day two, he completed a second-wicket 121 with Max Holden this morning.Left-handed Holden made 51 before feathering behind off Bess, leaving Middlesex at 182 for two in the 64th over.Robson was trapped lbw playing forwards at Bess with the score on 207 in the 76th, a key time with the new ball around the corner.Leus du Plooy and Higgins negated that threat, utilised by the spinners, as they added a fourth-wicket 57 either side of lunch, where Middlesex reached at 248 for three.Du Plooy was ousted early in the afternoon for 33, caught at short cover off a low full toss from new ball seamer Ben Coad, who was bowling only his seventh over of the innings – 263 for four in the 93rd.While determined Middlesex will be delighted to achieve their mid-match goal of avoiding defeat, this wasn’t a day they dominated.They weren’t able to break free and achieve a sizeable haul of batting bonus points as Bess and Moriarty have bowled 116 overs between them in the innings.Upon reaching 321 for four after 110 overs, they claimed two batting points to Yorkshire’s one for bowling. In the match overall, Yorkshire have edged that battle five to three.Should this contest finish in a draw, as expected, second-placed Middlesex would be one point clear of Yorkshire in third with three matches remaining in the promotion race.Fifth wicket pair Higgins and wicketkeeper-batter Jack Davies shared 128 either side of tea, the latter adding 61 before edging a low catch to slip off Bess – 391 for five in the 133rd.Excellent Higgins, who swept and reverse swept well, reached 1,000 Championship runs for the season upon getting to 92 and brought up his latest century with a six over long-on against Moriarty’s left-arm spin.He got there off 185 balls amidst an unbroken sixth-wicket stand of 50 with Luke Hollman, 21 not out.

Liverpool are the champions of the Premier League once again. And what’s more, Arne Slot has been backed by FSG this summer as they prepare to do it all over again.

While the bulk of transfer activity has been dealt with already on Merseyside, there’s more to come, with Darwin Nunez the centre of ongoing talks between Liverpool and Napoli after an opening €55m (£48m) bid was rejected.

Many would hope that FSG are gearing up to splash out the cash on Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, but the “world-class” goalscorer, as he has been described by pundit Alan Shearer, will likely prove too expensive.

And anyway, Slot has proven his ability to grow exciting talents into superstars. See the 22-year-old Ryan Gravenberch and Cody Gakpo.

Now, the Dutch coach is hoping to sign his next version of the former, whose meteoric rise last season led to him being crowned the Premier League Young Player of the Season.

Liverpool's next top transfer targets

After missing out on Dean Huijsen, who swapped Bournemouth for Real Madrid after his £50m release clause was met, it was clear from the early stages of the transfer window that Liverpool are interested in signing a centre-back.

Marc Guehi is the man at the top of the shopping list, and while developments appear to be minimal at the moment, expect FSG to try their luck before the summer window slams shut.

Liverpool need a new central defender, to be sure, but Slot knows that the 33-year-old Mohamed Salah will need greater attacking support than he received last term, practically engineering the incredible Premier League success of 2023/24.

And indeed, Nunez’s forthcoming sale will demand that sporting director Richard Hughes signs a successor, one who is fit to serve as Liverpool’s out-and-out frontman over the coming years.

Well, the Reds have just the player in mind, and their interest is beginning to get stronger and stronger.

Liverpool with growing interest in new striker

As per transfer insider Graeme Bailey, Liverpool’s interest in Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike is indeed getting more intense as Nunez edges closer to a transfer to Napoli.

The Premier League champions have been among the frontrunners for the 23-year-old in recent months, with Chelsea and Manchester United also keen on bagging his signature.

However, the sticking point is that Frankfurt are happy to play hardball, seemingly unwilling to budge on their €100m (£85m) valuation.

What Hugo Ekitike would bring to Liverpool

In 2022, Paris Saint-Germain signed a teenage Ekitike from Ligue 1 rivals Reims for a fee in the region of £30m. Newcastle had come close to a deal but failed to close it.

The Frenchman might not have brought it all together for PSG, only scoring four times across 33 senior matches, but he’s certainly built himself back up in Germany, with analyst Ben Mattinson hailing him as “one of the best strikers out there” after his 2024/25 term with Frankfurt.

Notching 36 goal involvements across all competitions for Frankfurt last season, Ekitike is clearly a “special talent”, as has been noted by journalist Bence Bocsak.

But it’s his dynamism and fluency that makes him such an attractive option for a club like Liverpool, finishing the 2024/25 season ranked among the top 6% of strikers across Europe’s top five leagues for shot-creating actions, the top 4% for both progressive carries and successful take-ons, and the top 20% for ball recoveries per 90, as per FBref.

The fact that he’s more complete than Gravenberch was when he joined Liverpool from Bayern Munich in August 2023 bodes well for his potential at the highest level of the European game.

As you will see in the table below, Gravenberch bloomed into a midfielder of remarkable quality and confidence last term, sitting deep in the centre of the park in spite of early career criticisms that he lacked the temperament and composure for such a role.

Looking at the Dutchman’s gains under Slot’s wing last season, as opposed to his less defined role when a part of Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool, it’s very easy to see that Slot’s tactical grasp brought out the best in his young compatriot.

Matches (starts)

26 (12)

37 (37)

Goals

1

0

Assists

0

4

Touches*

28.8

66.5

Pass completion

83%

89%

Key passes*

0.6

0.9

Dribbles*

0.9

1.0

Ball recoveries*

2.8

5.2

Tackles + interceptions*

1.5

3.5

Total duels (won)*

2.8 (47%)

5.0 (57%)

The same could be said for Gakpo, of course, but given that Ekitike is an exciting young player from the Bundesliga who has previously struggled to bring it together after a big-money move to a European superpower, he could emulate the silky holding midfielder.

And without a doubt, Ekitike has the technical ability to become the kind of all-encompassing centre-forward that Slot wants to connect his frontline.

Given the high regard Ekitike is held in already, it’s frightening to consider what Slot might manage to achieve in elevating the weaker points of his game and polishing any blemishes which a rising talent is naturally going to bear.

Gravenberch, certainly, has improved, having been branded a “passenger out of possession” by journalist Danny Corcoran during his maiden term in English football.

He’s now a player of smooth ability, one of the finest in Europe. Slot has earned his flowers, all right, and he’ll receive a whole bouquet if allowed to tinker away at Ekitike’s mechanics, shaping him into a world-beater.

Talent scout Jacek Kulig claimed that the Die Adler star “could reach world-class striker levels” after his excellent campaign, and if he moves to Liverpool, his chances of this happening will increase tenfold.

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Manchester United has been the home to countless attacking talents over recent years, with the fanbase undoubtedly wishing they currently had some of their former talents in the present day.

Wayne Rooney still holds the club record for the most goals scored for the Red Devils, registering a staggering 253 goals in his 559 appearances – subsequently overtaking Sir Bobby Charlton’s record.

The likes of Eric Cantona, Cristiano Ronaldo and Ruud van Nistelrooy have all made a name for themselves at Old Trafford, with all the players undoubtedly capturing the hearts of the fanbase.

Current boss Ruben Amorim must wish he could rely upon just one of the aforementioned talents to help him in his quest to be a success during his time in charge of the club.

However, that could be about to change this summer, with the hierarchy looking to back the 40-year-old in the transfer market during the off-season.

The latest on United’s hunt for a new striker this summer

A striker has been high up on Amorim’s shopping list in recent weeks, unsurprisingly so, given the club’s terrible record of just 44 goals in their 38 Premier League matches last campaign.

The likes of Dušan Vlahović, Viktor Gyokeres and Victor Osimhen have all been touted with a move to Old Trafford, but no deals have yet been agreed for any of their signatures.

However, it appears as though that could be about to change, with Aston Villa talisman Ollie Watkins emerging as a key target for Amorim, according to CaughtOffside.

Their report claims that the 29-year-old is seen as a Premier League-proven option for the Red Devils, even making an approach for his services over the last couple of days.

It also states that the hierarchy would be willing to match his current £60m asking price, allowing the England international to follow in the footsteps of one other star at the Theatre of Dreams.

Why United’s £60m target would be Amorim’s own Van Persie

Striker Robin van Persie is a player who managed to hugely impress during his time at United, leading the club to their last league triumph back in the 2012/13 campaign.

He joined the Red Devils in a £24m deal from fellow English side Arsenal, a deal that was seen as a controversial one at the time, especially from the Gunners’ point of view.

The Dutchman was entering the back end of his career upon his move, joining the club at the age of 29, but it didn’t prevent him from starring at Old Trafford.

He managed to score 58 times in his 105 appearances over a three-year period, leading the side to title glory, something which Amorim will be hoping to replicate in the near future.

If he is to achieve such a goal, he could certainly improve his chances with a move for Watkins, with the Villa star following in Van Persie’s footsteps in the North West.

He would join the club at the same age as the Dutchman, also making an immediate impact, rather than being signed as one for the future in the club’s quest for glory.

Watkins would also be handed the responsibility of providing the goods in the final third, just like Van Persie was over a decade ago, also having the tools to offer the clinical edge the Red Devils have lacked.

The Englishman, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by Statman Dave, registered 17 goals in all competitions last season, averaging 1.4 shots on target per 90 – highlighting the clinical edge he possesses.

He’s also showcased his all-round talent, completing 75% of the passes he’s attempted, creating 1.1 chances per 90, handing other forwards around him the chance to improve the situation should he move to Old Trafford.

Watkins’ tally of 1.8 aerials won showcases his ability to hold the ball up in forward areas, offering Amorim’s side that needed focal point that they have lacked in recent months.

£60m may appear to be a mammoth figure for a 29-year-old star, but he’s consistently demonstrated that he’s capable of thriving in England’s top-flight.

If he can make the immediate impact Van Persie did during his time in Manchester, it would be a phenomenal signing and one that can push Amorim’s side back in the right direction.

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Despite fifties from Masood, Ayub and Agha, and four dropped catches, Pakistan were bowled out for 274

Hemant Brar31-Aug-2024

Despite half-centuries from Shan Masood, Saim Ayub and Salman Ali Agha, and four dropped catches of varying difficulty, Pakistan were bowled out for 274 on the second day of the second Test in Rawalpindi. For Bangladesh, Mehidy Hasan Miraz caused the most damage, finishing with figures of 5 for 61.The Bangladesh openers, Shadman Islam and Zakir Hasan, had two overs to face before stumps. Mir Hamza got Shadman to edge the first ball of the innings to fifth slip but Saud Shakeel grassed the chance, letting Bangladesh go back unscathed.That Pakistan are without Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah makes their position even more precarious. With Naseem “rested”, Pakistan’s four frontline bowlers for this match have played a combined experience of 16 Tests.Earlier, a warm and sunny morning greeted the teams after rain had washed out the opening day. Given the moisture in the pitch, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto had no hesitation in bowling first in what is now a four-day Test.Taskin, who returned from a shoulder injury, proved his captain right by striking in the first over. After bowling five outswingers to Abdullah Shafique, he got the last ball to nip back off the seam. Shafique was not prepared for it. He came forward to defend but left a huge gap between the bat and the pad. The ball sneaked through and hit the top of off stump.For a while, Taskin and Hasan Mahmud kept Ayub quiet by bowling predominantly from around the wicket. Ayub was on 4 off 25 balls at one point but hit three fours in the next 11 balls he faced. Masood was positive right from the start. As a result, the fifty stand between the two came in just 68 balls.Saim Ayub and Shan Masood had a century partnership for the second wicket•PCB

It was not that the Bangladesh seamers did not induce mistakes but none of them brought a wicket. As the day progressed, the pitch eased out. Ten minutes before lunch, Masood brought up his fifty, off just 54 balls. He hit only two fours in his fifty, which made it the fastest fifty in Test cricket since 2002 with two, or fewer, boundaries.At lunch, Pakistan were comfortably placed on 100 for 1 from 25 overs. But things changed after the break with Mehidy removing Masood and Ayub in quick succession. Bowling around the wicket, he first trapped Masood lbw with the one that straightened after pitching. Ayub brought up his fifty with a pulled four off Nahid Rana but when he came out of his crease to smash Mehidy, the offspinner beat him in the flight and had him stumped.Mehidy had an opportunity to further increase Pakistan’s woes but he dropped a regulation catch of Shakeel at second slip off Rana’s bowling. Had the catch been taken, Pakistan would have been 125 for 4.Shakeel failed to take advantage of the reprieve, though. He did hit Taskin for back-to-back fours but chopped on the last ball of the over onto his stumps to be dismissed for 16.At 151 for 4, Pakistan were relying on Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan for the umpteenth time to pull them out of trouble. But it was not to be. Shakib had Babar playing back to an arm ball when the batter should have been forward and had him lbw. Shakib could have had Agha too in the same over but Zakir failed to hold on to a difficult bat-pad chance at short leg.Rizwan fell shortly after tea, fending a short ball from Rana to first slip. Agha and Khurram Shahzad added 25 for the seventh wicket to keep Bangladesh at bay for a while. Mehidy threatened to end their resistance when he got Shahzad to edge one low to the left of first slip but Shadman could get only fingertips to the ball.Mehidy, though, did not have to wait for long. In his next over, Shahzad miscued a lofted shot towards mid-off where Shakib moved swiftly to his right to take a tumbling catch.But Bangladesh were not done with their gifts. Soon after, Mominul Haque dropped a straightforward chance from Mohammad Ali at leg slip off Shakib. However, that also did not hurt Bangladesh as Mehidy had Ali caught at slip in the next over.Agha got another life on 46. He inside-edged Taskin onto his pad and Mehidy caught the rebound at gully. But the umpire failed to spot the edge. Having burnt all their reviews, Bangladesh had no other option than to accept the on-field decision. Agha rubbed it in by pulling Taskin over fine leg for a six to bring up his fifty.With only two wickets left, Agha was taking more and more chances. Along with Abrar Ahmed, he added 28 for the ninth wicket before pulling Tasking into the hands of fine leg. From the other end, Abrar gave charge to Mehidy and was stumped, bringing curtains to the innings.

أثار عمرو الصفتي، مدافع الزمالك الأسبق، جدلًا واسعًا بتصريحاته النارية حول بعض قرارات الأهلي الأخيرة على صعيد التعاقدات ورحيل اللاعبين.

وقال عمرو الصفتي في تصريحات عبر بودكاست “جول كاست”: “نقول للأهلي شكرًا لأنك قمت ببيع وسام أبو علي، لقد أسديت إلينا أعظم معروف، ومن اتخذ قرار بيع وسام يجب أن يُعدم داخل النادي الأهلي”.

وتابع: “وسام لاعب مميز، وهل تملك مثله لتقوم ببيعه؟ لاعب يجيد ضربات الرأس، ويستعمل قدميه اليمنى واليسرى، وينفذ ركلات الجزاء والركلات الحرة، ماذا تريد أكثر من ذلك؟ إنه يمنحني الفوز ثم أبيعه، هل بعد رحيله الأهلي في نفس مستواه؟”.

وتابع متسائلًا باستغراب: “يعني أنا أدفع مائة مليون للتعاقد مع زيزو، وأنت لا تريد أن يحدث مثل هذا في الأهلي؟ بينما اللاعبون في ذلك الوقت يحصل أحدهم على ثلاثة وأربعة ملايين، وتعطي آخر 100 مليون، ولاعبًا آخر مليونًا واحدًا، كيف تريد للأهلي أن يفوز؟ أنا ألعب تسعين دقيقة وهو يلعب تسعين دقيقة”.

وأضاف: “ما الذي جذب إدارة الأهلي في زيزو مع الزمالك؟ والله العظيم بأمانة، ماذا كان يفعل زيزو يختلف عن اللاعبين الذين كانوا عندك؟ أم أنها صفقة كيدية للزمالك؟”.

طالع أيضًا | خالد الغندور: لاعب الأهلي كسب الجمهور.. وماذا سأقول عن زيزو وأنا زملكاوي؟

وعن سؤال: هل كان زيزو أفضل لاعب في مصر في فترة من الفترات؟ أجاب: “لا، لم يكن في رأيي أفضل لاعب على الإطلاق، بالنسبة لي زيزو طوال الوقت لاعب عادي جدًا، حتى وهو في الزمالك لاعب عادي جدًا، ولو كان في زمننا لم يكن ليدخل قائمة الـ 18، لو كان في وقت تألق شيكابالا وحسين ياسر المحمدي، أقسم بالله ما كان سيدخل قائمة المباريات، أقسم بالله لم يكن ليدخلها”.

وواصل: “زيزو لا يستطيع المرور من لاعب في مواجهة واحد لواحد إلا بسرعته على الخط، وهذا إنصافًا له، فهذا فقط ما يفعله، وينفذ ركلات الجزاء، ماذا فعل زيزو غير تنفيذ ركلات الجزاء؟ أعطني شيئًا آخر، أنا طوال عمري أراه هكذا، لكن لم يُسألني أحد عنه من قبل”.

وأكد: “زيزو لم يلفت نظري أبدًا، لم يكن يومًا أفضل لاعب في الزمالك، جاء وقت كان فيه بدنيًا قويًا، وهذا ما ساعده على التفوق، إذ كان يمكن أن يتخطى لاعبًا واحدًا بقوته البدنية وسرعته، ولكن كي أكون منصفًا، كان ذلك في فترة قصيرة، ربما لمدة عام واحد فقط، ثم انتهى الأمر”.

واختتم: “الأهلي تلقى الضربة بالفعل، من باع وسام أبو علي ومن تعاقد مع زيزو هم من وجهوا الضربة إلى الأهلي، ربما يكون هؤلاء أشخاصًا منتمين للزمالك والله.. والله العظيم هذا ممكن، وليس بعيدًا، الاثنان أثّرا على النادي الأهلي بشكل واضح، وفي رأيي الفني، لقد أثرا سلبًا على الأهلي، أما اللاعبين المصريين، كما قلت من قبل، فقد خذلوا الأهلي في كأس العالم للأندية”.

WA were 133 for 3 chasing 167 but lost 7 for 31 with McAndrew taking a career-best 5 for 40. Earlier, Bryce Jackson took the best-ever 50-over figures for WA of 6 for 31

AAP24-Sep-2024Western Australia have suffered an almighty collapse of 7 for 31 against South Australia, sparked by Nathan McAndrew’s five-wicket haul, to eventually lose by two runs and remain winless in the One-Day Cup after two games.Two days after being upset by New South Wales, Western Australia looked set for victory at 133 for 3 in pursuit of South Australia’s 166 at Sydney’s Cricket Central.But the three-time defending champions fell apart miserably, with McAndrew claiming career-best List A figures of 5 for 40 as Western Australia were all out for 164 in the 38th over.The loss leaves Western Australia with their worst start to a season since 2015, and the first time they have suffered back-to-back 50-over defeats in nine years.The defeat came despite the best efforts of quick Bryce Jackson, who claimed 6 for 31 and the best figures for Western Australia in the competition’s history.Jackson has long been touted as a potential talent in Western Australia, but a series of major back injuries denied him a debut until age 24 last summer.In just his second List A match, Bryce Jackson walked back with figures of 6 for 31•Getty ImagesThe right-arm quick took 3 for 67 in his maiden match against Tasmania in February, before taking his chance on Tuesday with Jhye Richardson rested.He had Henry Hunt caught behind with a ball that swung away in his first over, before getting Mackenzie Harvey and Daniel Drew in his next over.And after Liam Scott (46) and Daniel Drew (49) steadied the ship for South Australia, Jackson returned to get rid of both of them before beating McAndrew for pace on the hook shot.While Western Australia wobbled early in their chase, the competition heavyweights appeared to have the match under their control.With Ashton Turner going after Henry Thornton by cutting him for six and taking 16 off another over, a bonus-point win looked the most likely scenario.But the match swung viciously after Sam Whiteman pulled Wes Agar down the throat of Thomas Kelly at deep square leg on 48.Ashton Agar and Baxter Holt followed in similar fashion to McAndrew as the West Australians lost all control of the match.And when McAndrew had Matthew Kelly caught behind and clean bowled AJ Tye for a duck in his next over, Western Australia still required 10 for victory.Ben Manenti then landed the killer blow when he nicked off Turner on 53, leaving Lance Morris and Jackson six runs to get for the final wicket.Jackson was ultimately stumped trying to drive Manenti, denying him a dream day and handing South Australia their first win over Western Australia since 2017.

Will yet another summer spending spree at Chelsea continue?

Already this window, the Blues have spent in excess of £220m to recruit eight new players, including Estêvão Willian, Jamie Gittens, Liam Delap, João Pedro and others.

Now though, the newly-crowned Club World Cup champions have their eye on a Premier League superstar.

Chelsea's search for more attackers

Of the new recruits mentioned above, suffice it to say that Pedro has made the biggest immediate impression.

On his full debut, having been on a beach in Brazil just a matter of days earlier, the striker scored two absolute thunderbolts against former side Fluminense in the Club World Cup semi-finals, before adding the third during the 3-0 final demolition of PSG a few days later.

Ahmed Walid of the Athletic outlines how he has made an immediate impact, despite extremely ‘limited training time with the squad’, suggesting the Blues would not have won the competition without him.

Nevertheless, Chelsea could now sign an even bigger Premier League star for even more than the £60m paid to secure Pedro’s services.

That’s because, according to a report by Mark Brus of Caught Offside, Chelsea have been in contact with Eberechi Eze’s representatives over a potential move, as they enter talks over a potential move for the attacking midfielder.

Ed Aarons of the Guardian has previously documented Arsenal and Tottenham’s interest in the England international, noting that his contract contains a £67.5m release clause, with Palace ‘adamant’ that he will only be allowed to leave if that price point is met.

The Gunners have appeared to be the front-runners to sign Eze, but could Chelsea usurp their fierce London rivals, just as they did to infamously sign Mykhailo Mudryk for a reported fee of £88.7m back in January 2023?

How Eberechi Eze would improve Chelsea

Eze scored 14 goals and registered 11 assists in all competitions last season, most notably bagging the winner in the FA Cup Final as Crystal Palace upset the odds to defeat Manchester City at Wembley in May.

His performances warranted rave reviews, with Statman Dave labelling him a “gifted player”, while Simon Collings of the Evening Standard praised his ‘ability to play off the cuff and create something out of nothing’, adding that supporters are instantaneously enamoured by his ‘flamboyant playing style’.

Meanwhile, Sam Tabuteau of Breaking the Lines notes that he is ‘thriving as the talisman’ at Selhurst Park, believing now is the right time for the 27-year-old to make the next step in his career.

So, how did he compare to Chelsea’s most recent, big-money intra-Premier League signing, Pedro?

Appearances

43

30

Minutes

3,303

2,136

Goals

14

10

Assists

11

7

All statistics below are per-90 and PL only:

Shots

2.2

1.6

Shots on target

1.1

1

Chances created

2

1.3

Take-ons completed

2.4

1.4

Take-on success %

51.9%

38.2%

Touches

54.9

48.8

Average Sofascore rating

7.28

7.15

As the table outlines, Eze comes out on top for every single attacking metric included, both in terms of overall and on a per 90 basis.

In fact, only four players attempted more take-ons than Eze in the league last season, while also ranking sixth for shot-creating actions, both according to FBref.com.

Pedro played around 500 fewer minutes in the Premier League, mainly due to the fact that he didn’t feature in any of Brighton’s final five matches to conclude the campaign, first sent off against Brentford, subsequently serving a three-match suspension, before being exiled following a ‘training ground altercation’ with teammate Jan Paul van Hecke.

No such concerns surrounding Eze, who is a truly majestic player to watch, and would be a serious statement signing for Chelsea, even if they already boast plenty of options in attacking areas, as he could be even better than Pedro.

Their own Mbeumo: Chelsea in talks for "one of the best 10s in the world"

The international ace would be unreal for Chelsea.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 18, 2025

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has made quite the impression already since taking over from his predecessor, Edu Gaspar, in late March – and the 53-year-old is personally very keen to get one transfer over the line.

Arsenal complete signing with medical "done", announcement due "this week"

Mikel Arteta is set to welcome another player.

4

By
Emilio Galantini

Jul 9, 2025

Berta is currently attempting to seal an array of deals behind-the-scenes, right after the club officially announced the arrivals of Spanish duo Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martin Zubimendi, with Christian Norgaard also completing his move to Arsenal after a medical (David Ornstein).

Arsenal are in advanced talks for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, and the prolific 27-year-old could be joined by either Real Madrid star Rodrygo or Chelsea’s Noni Madueke as the Gunners also target a new left-winger.

Madueke has already agreed personal terms with Arsenal, but Rodrygo is understood to be their “dream” target in that area, and Berta is known to do work on targets simultaneously before pressing ahead with the best deal.

Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera has agreed terms over an Arsenal move too, but the Premier League title hopefuls are yet to find an agreement with his club and some reports suggest that talks for the 21-year-old have stalled.

Moves for either Madueke or Rodrygo, as reliably reported, won’t impact their talks to sign Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze.

Arsenal have held positive talks over signing Eze, but it is believed that Berta and co do not wish to pay the England international’s full £68 million release clause as all parties attempt to find a solution.

Eze is rumoured to be keen on joining Mikel Arteta’s side, though, giving the club some encouragement that there is a deal to be done here.

Arsenal could offer "emerging star" in swap deal for Eberechi Eze

There are a few avenues Arsenal could go down in their attempts to find a full agreement, and one of them is a potential player-exchange.

That is according to journalist Rahman Osman, who told The Sun this week that Arsenal could offer an unnamed “emerging star” to Palace in a swap deal for Eze.

Berta himself is personally “determined” to sign the 27-year-old – who scored 14 goals and registered a further 11 assists in all competitions last term – and the Italian has held talks with his representatives.

He will keep trying to convince Palace to part company, but the south Londoners are just as steadfast in demanding Eze’s full release clause be paid. That being said, Osman also reports that they might be open to accepting a “promising defender” as part of the deal.

A proven Premier League star, Eze spearheaded Palace to their first ever major trophy with the FA Cup final-winning goal against Man City at Wembley last season – 14 years after he was released by Arsenal as a 13-year-old academy youngster.