Fulham have now made an approach to sign a “top striker”, having expressed a “concrete interest” in securing his signature, Sky reporter Sacha Tavolieri has revealed on X.
Cottagers eyeing new striker amid Rodrigo Muniz uncertainty
Rodrigo Muniz’s future at Craven Cottage is in doubt, with the striker attracting interest from Premier League rivals Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur, with Thomas Frank’s side said to have made an offer for the Brazilian.
Losing the 24-year-old could be seen as a real blow for Marco Silva, given that he was a regular starter throughout the 2024-25 campaign, picking up a total of eight goals and one assist in 31 Premier League appearances.
However, the Cottagers should be able to pocket a tidy fee for the forward, should they choose to sanction a departure, given that Spurs’ bid was believed to amount to £32m, which would provide them with adequate funds to sign a top replacement.
Talks held: Fulham now approach agents of "incredible" £34m UCL finalist
The Cottagers have come forward to sign a midfielder…
ByDominic Lund Jul 2, 2025
In a recent update on X, Tavolieri has now revealed that Fulham are assessing potential options to replace Rodrigo, stating they hold a “concrete interest” in signing KRC Genk striker Tolu Arokodare, but there could be competition for his signature.
Alongside Fulham, a number of other Premier League clubs have made approaches for Arokodare, although the Sky Sports reporter appears to indicate Silva’s side are leading the race for his signature, with a move to Craven Cottage deemed the “most concrete possibility”.
A move may hinge upon Muniz leaving the club, however, with the Nigerian viewed as a “serious option” in the event of the former Flamengo man exiting Craven Cottage this summer.
"Top striker" Arokodare could be ideal replacement for Muniz
The Genk striker is yet to prove himself in one of Europe’s top leagues, but he has maintained a solid goal record throughout his career so far, and the 2024-25 campaign was by far his most prolific to date.
Season
Appearances
Goals
Assists
2021-22
40
13
2
2022-23
34
10
4
2023-24
52
15
3
2024-25
45
23
7
The Nigeria international’s exploits last season suggest that he could now be entering his prime, indicating he could make an instant impact at Craven Cottage, and Genk manager Thorsten Fink clearly holds his star player in very high regard.
Fink said: “Tolu is a top striker. He is fast, strong in the air, left and right-footed, and he scores. What more could you want as a coach? Moreover, he now also carries out his defensive duties, which he didn’t do before.”
With Genk looking to hold out for a fee of £25m, a deal for Arokodare will be affordable, should Fulham decide to cash-in on their Brazilian star this summer, and he has all the tools to be a success in west London.
Tottenham are currently in ongoing negotiations over selling a high-profile member of their squad, according to a new report.
Spurs boss Thomas Frank gave his first ever pre-match press conference before their friendly against Reading on Saturday, and in his statement to the media, he moved to quash rumours linking some star players with a move away.
Player's camp in talks with Tottenham, Frank convinced he'd join Spurs
The Dane is personally confident they can secure his signature.
2 ByEmilio Galantini Jul 18, 2025
Son Heung-min and Cristian Romero have both been repeatedly linked with a summer exit, attracting interest from Saudi Arabia and Atletico Madrid specifically, but Frank insists they both remain a part of his plans.
“Two top players, Sonny, been here 10 years, finally got his his well deserved trophy in the summer,” said Frank.
“So important for the team and the club. Cristian Romeo, World Cup winner, Europa League winner, Copa America winner, very, very important for us as well. Both have trained well, setting the standards out there on the training pitch and both will play tomorrow so I’m very happy.
“My expectation is all the players are here and they are training well. That is what I am focusing on and again very impressed by them. They set the standards and train hard. As I said, they are playing tomorrow, that’s a good indicator that they are here.”
Of course, depending on any suitable offers that come in, the nature of the transfer market means we can never completely rule anything out.
Spurs are now starting to move in terms of outgoings, with goalkeeper Josh Keeley completing a move to Luton Town after Tottenham agreed a £1 million deal with the League One side earlier this week, as first reported by Alasdair Gold.
Alfie Dorrington has gone out on loan to Aberdeen again as well, joining young striker Alejo Veliz in securing a temporary transfer away from N17 this summer in pursuit of more game time.
In terms of bigger names leaving, Yves Bissouma has reportedly been told he’s free to leave Tottenham, while great uncertainty surrounds the futures of Bryan Gil and Manor Solomon after their 2024/2025 loan spells elsewhere.
There is also the matter of Richarlison, who suffered from a plague of injury problems last term.
Palmeiras president in talks with Tottenham to sign Richarlison
The Brazil international, who cost Levy a whopping £60 million to sign from Everton in 2022, enjoyed a brief purple patch midway through Ange Postecoglou’s first season in charge, but his highlights have been few and far between.
Tottenham Hotspur'sRicharlisoncelebrates after winning the Europa League Final
Clubs in Saudi Arabia, Richarlison’s homeland and Turkish champions Galatasaray have all been credited with an interest in the 28-year-old, with a report from The Boy Hotspur now claiming that Palmeiras are taking the lead.
It is believed that Palmeiras president, Leila Pereira, is “personally conducting the negotiations” to sign Richarlison – currently working on payment plans and acquiring more financial resources to meet Spurs’ asking price.
Al-Ahli, Al-Hilal, Al-Shabab, Vasco de Gama, Fluminense and even Newcastle are named as other suitors for the ex-Watford forward, so he’s a man in demand, and Spurs are apparently keen on selling to reinvest Richarlison’s transfer fee in their own summer recruitment drive.
أعلن عماد النحاس، القائم بأعمال المدير الفني للفريق الأول لكرة القدم بالنادي الأهلي، عن قائمة مباراة سيراميكا كليوباترا التي تجمع الفريقين غدًا ضمن منافسات بطولة الدوري الممتاز.
وتلعب المباراة بين الأهلي وسيراميكا كليوباترا، غدا الجمعة، ضمن منافسات الجولة السابعة من بطولة الدوري المصري، على أرضية استاد القاهرة.
وكان الأهلي قد تعادل أمام إنبي بهدف لكل فريق بالمباراة التي جمعت بينهما مساء الأحد الماضي ضمن لقاءات الجولة السادسة من الدوري المصري.
ويحتل الأهلي المركز الخامس عشر في جدول ترتيب الدوري المصري برصيد 6 نقاط، جمعهم من الفوز في مباراة وحيدة والتعادل في 3 لقاءات، بينما خسر مباراة أمام بيراميدز. قائمة الأهلي لمباراة سيراميكا كليوباترا
حراسة المرمى: محمد الشناوي – مصطفى شوبير – محمد سيحا.
خط الدفاع: عمر كمال عبد الواحد – محمد هاني – ياسر إبراهيم – ياسين مرعي – أحمد رمضان بيكهام – مصطفى العش.
خط الوسط: أحمد نبيل كوكا – أليو ديانج – مروان عطية – محمد علي بن رمضان – أحمد رضا.
خط الهجوم: حسين الشحات – طاهر محمد طاهر – محمد مجدي أفشة – نيتس جراديشار – محمود حسن تريزيجيه – أشرف بن شرقي – محمد شريف – حمزة عبد الكريم.
Here we go, then. After finding themselves 2-0 down through a combination of hubris, inexperience and self-sabotage, Harry Brook’s bucks got themselves on the board up in Durham – from here on it’ll be Bazballs to the wall as they look to emulate last summer’s rip-roaring Ashes comeback (with the potential for a similarly underwhelming final outcome if the weather forecast holds true).Or perhaps not. Certainly, there won’t be the accompanying levels of interest, even if England can prove victory at Chester-le-Street to keep the series alive was not a flash in the pan. But there was undoubtedly something invigorating about the performance, with England’s one-day cricket perhaps at its lowest ebb since the disastrous 2015 World Cup campaign.Brook was to the fore as stand-in skipper, and one of the batters expecting to carry the side forward, scoring his maiden ODI hundred to make a chase of 305 look relatively straightforward (even if the rain meant England didn’t quite get to knock off the requirement themselves). With England seemingly floundering again at 11 for 2, the 156-run stand between Brook and Will Jacks was not only timely but demonstrated their ability to go through the gears in a format that requires stickability as well as crash, bang, wallop.It helped, of course, that Australia were missing their two best performers, in Travis Head and Adam Zampa – as did Brook winning the toss for the third time in a row. While England’s bowlers could not fully capitalise on useful seam-bowling conditions early on, as Alex Carey again lifted Australia clear of trouble, the pitch became more conducive to buccaneering strokeplay as the day wore on.For Australia, the end of their 14-game winning streak – second only to that put up by the legendary class of 2003 – will unlikely be cause for much lamenting. Steven Smith gave a reminder of his old-school qualities with his first fifty of the tour, while Aaron Hardie’s late-order cameo provided a glimpse of the future for this Australia side. The bowlers were not at their best but they have the experience and knowhow to saddle up and go again in a bid to seal the series at Lord’s.
Form guide
(last five completed matches, most recent first) England WLLLW Australia LWWWW
In the spotlight: Will Jacks and Alex Carey
While Brook took the headlines, Will Jacks was equally important to the Chester-le-Street turnaround. Although he was unable to press on to a maiden hundred, an innings of 84 from 82 balls was, by his own evaluation, his best international performance to date. Following his half-century at Trent Bridge, it suggested he is beginning to acclimatise to the format and his role at No. 3. Curiously, despite a body of work in T20 that dwarfs his List A experience (186 appearances to 32), it is in ODIs that he has currently had more of an impact with England.There was weather around as the teams trained at Lord’s•PA Photos/Getty Images
Alex Carey may have arrived back in the UK with a touch of trepidation, given his turbulent experience during last summer’s Ashes, but after being handed an unexpected opportunity with the ODI side after Josh Inglis’ injury he has seized it with both hands. Showing absolutely no ring-rust despite having not batted in a competitive scenario since March, Carey has top-scored for Australia two matches running while continuing to be an assured presence behind the stumps. It has, in the words of head coach Andrew McDonald, created a “good problem” for the team as preparation for the Champions Trophy gears up.
Team news: Archer set to play
Jofra Archer is expected to play back-to-back games so England could well be unchanged. Reece Topley has left the squad after suffering from illness.England: (possible) 1 Ben Duckett, 2 Phil Salt, 3 Will Jacks, 4 Harry Brook (capt), 5 Jamie Smith (wk), 6 Liam Livingstone, 7 Jacob Bethell, 8 Brydon Carse, 9 Olly Stone, 10 Adil Rashid, 11 Matthew PottsAfter the illness issues that dogged the start of the tour, Australia have reported a clean bill of health, which includes Adam Zampa, whose absence was significant at Chester-le-Street. The only issue is whether Inglis is yet match-fit, though Carey’s form makes that academic.Australia: (possible) 1 Travis Head, 2 Matthew Short, 3 Mitchell Marsh (capt), 4 Steven Smith, 5 Marnus Labuschagne, 6 Alex Carey (wk), 7 Glenn Maxwell, 8 Aaron Hardie, 9 Mitchell Starc, 10 Josh Hazlewood, 11 Adam Zampa
Pitch and conditions
Lord’s is not foremost among English grounds when it comes to playing like a billiards table, although England did put up 311 in their previous ODI in north London against New Zealand last September. Given the amount of rain around recently, it could well be another seamer-friendly track – that’s if the weather relents enough to get a game, with showers forecast for the morning and early afternoon.
Stats and trivia
With two wickets in Durham, Starc overtook Mitchell Johnson to go clear in fourth on Australia’s ODI wicket-takers’ list. He has a bit of a climb to reach Shane Warne in third.
Brook’s hundred was only his second in the 50-over format – and first since 2019, when he scored 103 off 105 balls for Yorkshire against Leicestershire. In the intervening period, he made 13 first-class centuries (five in Tests) and three in T20.
Australia have a strong record at Lord’s, winning six of their last seven ODIs against England at the ground – including their 2019 World Cup group stage encounter.
England have only played three ODIs at Lord’s since the 2019 World Cup final, winning all three.
Quotes
“We said once we were 2-0 down, we’re going to stay true to how we play. And I think we’d done that at Durham and backed everyone to play their own game. It paid off at Durham, so I don’t see there’s any reason [to change].” Matt Potts says England are on the comeback trail again“None of the blokes are training, we’re only here for lunch.”
It’s safe to say that Mikel Arteta and Edu Gaspar’s squad building at Arsenal hasn’t been the greatest.
Yes, the Gunners have been able to put together a starting XI capable of challenging for both the Premier League and Champions League.
Yet, amid injuries and suspensions last season, they struggled to maintain their form post-Christmas.
Arsenalplayers pose for a team group photo before the match
While the semi-finals of the Champions League were reached, their domestic form took a turn for the worse, ultimately finishing ten points behind Liverpool in their quest for the title.
To rubberstamp Arsenal’s at times puzzling strategy in the transfer window, they have signed six players from Chelsea in the last seven years, the latest of which saw Kepa Arrizabalaga arrive as David Raya’s back-up in a £5m move.
Incredibly, the north Londoners have now also signed more goalkeepers since Arteta’s arrival than wingers and strikers.
So, it’s clear they need to do better in the ongoing market and what better way to do so than by handing the manager a wealth of new forwards.
Here’s what Arsenal’s dream squad could look like if everything goes according to plan this summer.
The goalkeepers
Raya vying for the Golden Glove again
Having won the Golden Glove in consecutive years, Raya is the undisputed number one at Arsenal now.
His arrival back in 2023 was undoubtedly a strange one. Arteta claimed that he had two number 1s and that Raya and Aaron Ramsdale would battle it out.
Sadly for the latter, he was rather cast aside by the Spaniard, eventually sold last summer to Southampton, who became one of the worst Premier League sides in history.
Neto came in as backup, but after playing just one game while on loan, he has departed Colney and has now been replaced by the aforementioned Kepa.
Goalkeepers signed by Arteta
Player
Fee
Alex Runarsson
£1.5m
Mat Ryan
Loan
Aaron Ramsdale
£30m
Matt Turner
£5.5m
David Raya
£27m
Neto
Loan
Kepa Arrizabalaga
£5m
Signed from Chelsea, the Spaniard enjoyed a pretty decent time of it on loan at Bournemouth last season and his error-ridden days appear to be behind him. Now 30 years of age, he’ll provide strong competition for Raya.
Full list of goalkeepers: David Raya, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Karl Hein.
The defence
New centre-back signs to compete with Gabriel & Saliba
Undoubtedly, the strongest point of this Arsenal team in the last two years has been their defensive record. No side has shipped fewer goals than Arteta’s men in 2023/24 (29) and 2024/25 (34).
Any success this team have next season will be built on strong foundations again and with Gabriel Magalhaes having already signed new terms in recent months, Arsenal will be hoping they can swap William Saliba away from the jaws of Real Madrid by tying him down too.
Gabriel’s stand-in, Jakub Kiwior, has been linked with a move away, but having stood out during the Brazilian’s absence through injury, deserves his place in this squad now. He could be joined, however, by young Valencia centre-back Cristhian Mosquera. The 20-year-old “wants” Arsenal in the words of Fabrizio Romano and a deal could be done for a cheap fee of £17m.
At full-back, while Jorrel Hato of Ajax has been touted with a switch, it’s unlikely that move goes through if Mosquera arrives.
Cristhian Mosquera for Valencia.
As a result, despite Kieran Tierney’s exit and Oleksandr Zinchenko’s likely departure, the right and left side of defence will have a familiar ring to it. Expect Myles Lewis-Skelly to dazzle again after being rewarded with a new contract. Here’s hoping Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori can stay fit too.
Full list of centre-backs: William Saliba, Cristhian Mosquera, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jakub Kiwior.
Full list of right-backs: Jurrien Timber, Ben White.
Full list of left-backs: Myles Lewis-Skelly, Riccardo Calafiori.
The midfielders
Two new signings arrive
There could be big changes in the middle of the park this summer with the Gunners moving quickly to fill gaps in the squad.
Martin Zubimendi is due to arrive from Real Sociedad for just over £50m, having been billed by Spain manager Luis de la Fuente as “one of the best midfielders in the world”.
Vying for a spot as the holding midfielder will be Brentford captain Christian Norgaard. A surprise transfer is in the works for the Dane to come to Arsenal for £10m and he is likely to play second fiddle to Zubimendi.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Elsewhere, Arsenal do lack genuine depth for Martin Odegaard but a sliver of minutes could be handed to Max Dowman, the current poster boy for the Hale End academy.
Declan Rice will be the standout option as the left 8 but expect Mikel Merino to continue impressing after his strong end to the 2024/25 campaign.
Full list of midfielders: Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, Martin Odegaard, Max Dowman.
The forwards
A big improvement for Arteta
Here we go, then. Just what can Arsenal do to bolster their tame forward line this summer? The fanbase are expecting that a shiny new centre-forward arrives but before we get there, let’s evaluate options out wide.
The Gunners have long needed cover for star boy Bukayo Saka on the right wing but the emergence of Ethan Nwaneri last season is set to save them a bucket load of cash on finding a deputy.
Nwaneri is one of the finest young talents in the game and will be ready to make a splash again after scoring nine goals in his 37 first-team outings.
The left-hand side is where big improvements are required. Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard are decent options but after scoring ten goals apiece last season, failing to really stand up when the likes of Saka and Kai Havertz were injured, Arteta needs to be ruthless.
Arsenal have been linked with several wide forwards, notably the likes of Anthony Gordon and Morgan Rogers but we expect Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Crystal Palace superstar Eberechi Eze to arrive.
The club have flirted with making a move for Rodrygo this summer and it’s reported that positive talks have been held. Yet, with a possible £85m fee lined up, it’s not an easy deal to do. Still, the Brazilian should be pushing for a move having played just 88 minutes at the Club World Cup so far. He’s clearly not in new manager Xabi Alonso’s plans.
David Ornstein has reported that Arsenal’s pursuit of Eze is separate from their chase of a winger and if they could get both deals over the line here, it would significantly improve their forward line. Once rejected by the Hale End academy at 13, the Eagles star has dreamed of playing for the first team and that could become a reality in 2025/26 if his £68m release clause is activated .
Eberechi Eze: Last three seasons
Stat
22/23
23/24
24/25
Games
40
31
43
Goals
10
11
14
Assists
4
6
11
Mins played
2,686
2,285
3,303
Stats via Transfermarkt.
At long last, we come to the striker position. This is where Arsenal need to improve big time and failing to get a new centre-forward in this summer would be a disaster.
Viktor Gyokeres, the scorer of 54 goals in 52 games last season, remains a key option and reports this week have suggested he’s already agreed a five-year deal to sign. Still, there remains a gap in what Arsenal are willing to pay and what Sporting want to receive.
A deal for Benjamin Sesko, billed as “the new Haaland” by scout Jacek Kulig, remains in the works and reports this week suggested that they are moving closer to an agreement with Leipzig on what could be a £64m fee.
While the Slovenian is not as prolific as Gyokeres, scoring 21 goals last term, he’s got an amazing profile that consists of pace, power, height and goalscoring. There are few better options out there and he could truly explode in Arsenal colours.
Full list of wingers: Bukayo Saka, Ethan Nwaneri, Rodrygo, Eberechi Eze, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard.
Full list of strikers: Benjamin Sesko, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus.
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Andrea Berta is in for a big summer at Arsenal; here’s how it could play out.
Glasgow Rangers are in competitive action for the first time in the 2025/26 campaign as they host Panathinaikos at Ibrox in the Champions League this evening.
The Light Blues welcome the Greek side to Glasgow in the first leg of their second round qualifier, in what will be Russell Martin’s first game in charge of the club.
Supporters will be hoping to see some new faces in the Rangers team for the first time, in a competitive setting at least, with the likes of Emmanuel Fernandez, Max Aarons, Joe Rothwell, and Djeidi Gassama all hoping to feature in some capacity.
Thelo Aasgaard, who signed for the club from Luton Town on a permanent deal this summer, missed training on Monday, though, and does not appear likely to be in the squad.
The Light Blues are still in the market for further reinforcements before the end of the transfer window, as well, but one player who may not be coming to Ibrox is Motherwell’s Lennon Miller.
Rangers were reportedly exploring a deal for the Scotland international last month. However, the Daily Record claims he has his ‘heart set’ on a move abroad.
Why missing out on Lennon Miller would be a blow for Rangers
Whilst the 18-year-old talent is still a Motherwell player and has not officially signed with another club, the latest claim that he is looking to move abroad suggests that the Gers are unlikely to land his signature before the end of the current transfer window.
This is a shame for Rangers, who were exploring a potential swoop for him, because he is an exciting young talent who has proven himself in the Scottish Premiership.
The teenage central midfielder started 32 matches in the Scottish top-flight for Motherwell in the 2024/25 campaign, and caught the eye with his impressive performances in the middle of the park.
Miller produced two goals and eight assists as an attacking force from midfield for his side, but it was his work off the ball that really showcased his best qualities.
Tackle success rate
68%
Top 28%
Duels won
5.84
Top 36%
Duel success rate
53%
Top 31%
Interceptions
1.38
Top 14%
Ball recoveries
6.52
Top 10%
Blocks
0.48
Top 28%
As you can see in the table above, the Scotland international ranked very highly among his positional peers in the Premiership in a host of key defensive metrics.
Miller’s contributions in and out of possession for Motherwell led to him being named the Scottish Premiership Young Player of the Year, which further illustrates why it would be a blow for Rangers to potentially miss out on him.
Rangers lining up move for new midfielder
However, the Light Blues are now interested in signing another teenage talent who could arrive at Ibrox as Martin’s own version of Lennon Miller.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
According to Edinburgh News reporter Barry Anderson, Rangers are lining up a move for FC Cukaricki central midfielder Andrej Bacanin this summer.
The journalist claims that both the Gers and Celtic are keen on a potential deal for the Serbia U19 international, whilst Ajax and Udinese are also chasing a move for the impressive youngster.
Anderson adds that the Serbian side want a fee of around £2.6m, but that there is a feeling that the club would be willing to accept a fee of around £2.1m.
Cukaricki sporting director Vladimir Matijašević had already confirmed that Rangers made an enquiry, but this latest report outlines how much a deal could cost the Gers if they decide to go in with an official approach for him.
Why Bacanin could be Rangers' own Miller
If Rangers secure a £2.1m deal to sign the 18-year-old talent, who is the same age as Miller, then Martin could have his own version of the Motherwell dynamo on his hands.
Of course, the Serbian youngster is not a proven Premiership performer who would be almost guaranteed to hit the ground running at Ibrox in the same way that the Scottish star would be.
However, Bacanin is another 18-year-old prospect who would arrive in Glasgow as an excellent midfield talent with the potential to be a star for the club in the future, although he may not be expected to make a huge impact in the short term.
With a return of one goal and two assists in 17 appearances in the Superliga, the Serbia youth international is unlikely to provide the goals and assists that Miller did for Motherwell last season. However, he caught the eye as a screener in front of his defence, making vital defensive contributions on a regular basis in his breakthrough campaign at senior level.
Appearances
17
Starts
10
Goals
1
Assists
2
Tackles per 90
2.3
Interceptions per 90
1.8
Aerial duels won per 90
1.3
Error led to goal
0
Penalties committed
0
As you can see in the table above, Bacanin averaged 4.1 tackles and interceptions per 90 in his first season for Cukaricki, which shows that he has the tenacity and reading of the game to constantly step in to break up attacks.
Serbian Football Scout, who is a professional scout for MLS side Colorado Rapids, hailed the teenage ace as a “true midfield controller”, and his defensive work plays a crucial role in that.
His ability to consistently win possession back for his side, through tackles and interceptions, allows him to control games by breaking up opposition attacks and creating new possessions for his own team to then create chances.
This suggests that he can offer similar qualities to Miller in terms of what he can do out of possession in the middle of the park, as they are both midfielders who can consistently stop the other team from building up play.
Perfect for Gassama: Rangers ready to step up move for "exemplary" CF
Rangers are reportedly ready to pursue a deal to sign a star who would be perfect for Djeidi Gassama.
ByDan Emery Jul 20, 2025
He may not be a like-for-like replica of the Motherwell star, as he has yet to show as much quality as a creator, but they are both teenage midfield stars who can operate as impressive defensive enforcers, which is why the £2.1m star could be Martin’s own version of Miller at Ibrox.
Kyle Verreynne believes his 114 against Bangladesh is the best innings of his short career. He said that handling spin in the heat and humidity of Dhaka, particularly with South Africa under pressure when he came to the crease, made it a special occasion.Verreynne spent just over four hours to get his second Test century after South Africa had slipped to 99 for 5 in reply to Bangladesh’s 106 all out. The visitors ended the first day on 140 for 6 before Verreynne added 119 runs with Wiaan Mulder, who made 54. By the time he was dismissed on the second afternoon, South Africa were ahead by 202 runs, a big lead on the Shere Bangla National Stadium wicket.Verreynne said that since his maiden Test century in New Zealand came in conditions he is familiar with, he rated his Dhaka knock slightly higher.”It is definitely the best innings of my Test career,” Verreynne said. “It is probably the toughest conditions I have played under in terms of heat and humidity. Back home we don’t face long periods of spin bowling. Around 90% of that innings was just against spin. Things happen quickly. You don’t have much time to reset from a concentration point of view. This was certainly my most rewarding innings.Related
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“This (century) felt like better just in terms of the context of the game and the conditions. I think New Zealand is a lot similar to our conditions back home. To do in the continent in quite a tough wicket and tough circumstances, it is probably a better innings. The impact will hopefully be bigger than the first (century). I am really happy with it. It has been a long time since the one in NZ, so it is nice to get in another one.”Verreynne was particularly strong on the sweep. According to ESPNcricinfo’s stats, he got 49 runs off the 29 sweep shots he attempted which included the slog sweep. He struck five fours and a six in that region. The Bangladesh spinners, usually very good in Dhaka, didn’t have much of an answer against Verreynne.He said that a discussion on the second morning with batting coach Ashley Prince really helped him get a perspective of what to do for the rest of the day. “Wiaan Mulder and I, and the batters chatted this morning. We spoke to batting coach Ashy P (Ashwell Prince) about how we are going to try to go about things. There was no specific emphasis put on playing the sweep.”It was more just about how we back our options. Make sure we try to score and not go into our shells. We tried to play positively, get into better positions. We spoke to Ashy P about batting with the tail. It gave me a lot of clarity when I was batting with (Dane) Piedt and KG (Kagiso Rabada).”Verreynne said that he usually plays the sweep shot against spin so he just implemented it regularly in this game but other batters have different styles of scoring runs in their side.”I don’t think there’s been any extra emphasis (on the sweep shot). It is something that I have worked on quite a bit against spinners. It is not really a subcontinent specific thing. I would play it back home against spin as much as possible. I faced a lot of spin out there today so it is kind of what I am trying to do.”A lot of guys have different ways of going about playing it. For me, this is something that I worked on. You saw Wiaan (Mulder), (Tony) de Zorzi and Ryan (Rickelton) scored runs through other areas. It is one of my strengths so I want to stick to it.”Verreynne said that the pitch played better in the morning session but expects it to deteriorate further in the game.”I think this morning (the pitch) played better than yesterday morning. I don’t know if it dried out or there wasn’t as much moisture. It seems to be getting tough as the day has gone on, so tomorrow and going further in the Test, (the pitch) will get tougher and tougher.”
Whilst Benjamin Sesko continues to steal the headlines, Manchester United have now reportedly joined the race alongside Tottenham Hotspur to sign a teenage sensation.
Newcastle take advantage in Sesko race
Although initial reports indicated that Sesko is likely to favour a move to Manchester United this summer, it is now Newcastle United in the driving seat heading towards the forward’s signature. According to reports, the Magpies have taken pole position and have submitted a bid worth £70m to match RB Leipzig’s price tag.
As Sky Sports’ Keith Downie reported, however, there is still a chance for Manchester United if they decide to match or better Newcastle’s offer. Sesko is still open to both projects and, as ever this summer, there’s still every opportunity for a transfer hijack to take place.
Ruben Amorim would certainly welcome the chance to complete his revamped frontline too. So far, both Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have arrived to kick things off, but it’s clear that the addition of a star striker would truly round things off.
Of course, what may not help their pursuit of Sesko or an alternative option is the fact that Rasmus Hojlund is keen to stay and fight for his place rather than leave to fund his replacement.
Rasmus Hojlund
He told reporters after scoring in Man United’s 4-1 victory over Bournemouth in pre-season: “The most important [thing] for me is to keep working hard and stay focused and then we’ll see what happens. My plan is very clear and that is for me to stay and fight for my spot.”
Man Utd now chasing teenage sensation
Whilst it won’t steal the same headlines as Sesko, those at Old Trafford are still chasing one particular incoming. According to Expressen, as relayed by Sport Witness, Manchester United are now racing Tottenham Hotspur to sign Kevin Filling from AIK Fotboll.
The 16-year-old talent has impressed the Premier League duo, who are now looking to secure his signature despite the fact that they will be unable to welcome the forward on an official basis until 2028 when he turns 18.
Unlike in the Sesko saga, however, Manchester United could hold a key advantage thanks to INEOS. The United owners also hold a majority stake in FC Lausanne-Sport and they want to sign Filling then send him on loan to the Swedish club.
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In one swift move, INEOS could land a deal that benefits two of their clubs, with those at Old Trafford eventually reaping the rewards by welcoming a player who’s full of potential.
Filling is also a player who has already made his mark on senior football. The teenage gem enjoyed a dream debut for AIK in the Allsvenskan league, scoring in his first game to once again showcase his talent to the likes of Manchester United and Spurs.
With all signs currently pointing towards the departure of Alexander Isak this summer, Newcastle United are already reportedly planning how to spend the hefty transfer fee that they’ll receive if the Swede does seal his exit in the coming weeks.
In what has already been a summer transfer window to forget, the last thing that Newcastle needed was the bombshell that Isak sent their way last week. After missing out on Hugo Ekitike at the hands of Liverpool, there would have been plenty of hope that the Magpies would at least keep hold of their own star man. And in truth, it seemed as though that would be the case until Isak, himself, unexpectedly opened the door to a departure this summer.
Now, Liverpool are reportedly expected to make their move for the talented forward and continue a spending spree which is likely to reach the £400m-mark if they welcome Isak this summer. Whilst Arne Slot is left spoilt for choice, Eddie Howe and his transfer team have been forced back to square one for the umpteenth time.
Amid all of their transfer frustration, however, there is some good news for those at St James’ Park. Having identified the goalkeeper position as one that needs upgrading, as Nick Pope continues to fall short of his best form, the Magpies have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Aaron Ramsdale for Southampton.
The former Arsenal man solves one of Howe’s biggest problems and could be the beginning of a change in fortune, given Newcastle’s reported plan if they sell Isak this summer.
Newcastle targeting Barella in post-Isak spending spree
According to reports in Spain, Newcastle are now plotting a summer swoop to sign Nicolo Barella from Inter Milan in what will be a post-Isak spending spree. The superstar midfielder has been strongly linked with Real Madrid this summer, but their interest seems to have stalled over his price tag reaching €65m (£56m).
Isak is expected to cost any side around £150m ahead of next season, which would hand Newcastle the ultimate freedom to spend. And that’s when they could make their move to hijack Madrid’s interest in Barella.
The Italian would arguably form the Premier League’s most combative midfield alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali, with Joelinton also adding depth in that same role. Whilst Howe’s frontline would take a major hit, his midfield could reach a new level entirely courtesy of Isak’s potential departure.
Starts
29
38
Progressive Passes
235
271
Tackles Won
31
47
Ball Recoveries
165
188
Ask Howe to name his perfect midfielder and the answer is likely to be Guimaraes. It’s, therefore, no surprise that Newcastle reportedly have Barella in their sights.
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In nine less games last season, the Italian almost matched Guimaraes all the way in several key areas. Put them together at the heart of Howe’s side and Newcastle’s midfield – both in and out of possession – could dominate almost every Premier League side.
Sunderland are yet to pick up a win during their pre-season outing to the Algarve, but there have been promising signs aplenty anyway.
Indeed, the Black Cats have faced some formidable opponents out in Portugal in the form of Sevilla and Sporting, meaning a 1-1 draw and a 1-0 loss aren’t disastrous outcomes, when you also consider a large chunk of the first team personnel selected by Regis Le Bris are still getting used to one another as brand new recruits.
In particular, Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki caught the eye of Sunderland spectators watching on, with the skilful midfield duo set to be joined by another impressive body in the middle if emerging reports are correct.
Sunderland agree terms with £17m battler
Of course, Sunderland fans will take any progressing deal with a pinch of salt until it’s officially over the line, having been burnt recently by Armand Lauriente’s deal falling through at the last minute.
Lauriente was even pictured jetting off to the Stadium of Light to complete a move, but the wheels unfortunately came off the deal in the end.
Armand Lauriente in action for Sassuolo.
Hopefully, any last-minute mishaps are out of the Wearside outfit’s system, with The Athletic’s David Ornstein dramatically revealing via X that Sunderland have now agreed personal terms with long-term target Granit Xhaka.
The exclusive development by Ornstein reveals that Xhaka is only considering the newly promoted side as his next onward destination, with the hope on his end that the deal can be tied up rapidly for him to return to the Premier League.
In a window where Sunderland have already made a few statement deals a reality, this could well be the pick of the bunch, with the deal for the Swiss international – who is said to be valued at €20m (£17m) – a far more exciting signing to seal than Lauriente’s ever was.
Why signing Xhaka would be more exciting than Lauriente
Lauriente no doubt would have made his presence known donning Sunderland red and white, off the back of an explosive campaign in Serie B.
After all, the silky Frenchman wasn’t labelled “amazing” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig just by fluke, with a stunning haul of 18 strikes last season for Sassuolo clinching a glorious promotion up to the Italian top-flight.
Xhaka also has a sumptuous rocket up his sleeve, yet the seasoned 32-year-old would pick up his impressive tally of two strikes and seven assists in the far choppier and intense terrain of the Bundesliga last campaign, with the Bayer Leverkusen number 34 elevating his game to the next level in Germany.
From 174 games in the top division – with 66 of those coming about for Leverkusen – the midfield enforcer would collect 11 goals and ten assists, 12 of which were registered at the BayArena, as his side were even crowned champions of the usually Bayern Munich-dominated Bundesliga during his two-campaign stint.
Games played
225
Goals
17
Assists
25
Completed passes
14,865 (88%)
Tackles
368
Duels won
1001
On the contrary, Lauriente only has 133 games next to his name in total when plying his trade in Serie A and Ligue 1, with Xhaka’s expertise of the taxing Premier League also making him a far more worthwhile signing to pursue, away from festering in any lingering disappointment of the Frenchman’s deal collapsing.
Whilst he did experience many bumps along the way at Arsenal, Xhaka – in retrospect – is now viewed as a cog that allowed the Gunners to tick during testing times, as seen in his impressive 17 goals and 25 assists from a mammoth 225 top-flight appearances.
On top of that, he also battled away valiantly for the Gunners’ cause time after time, with 1001 duels being won in total, gaining him the label of a “monster” by Arsenal-based writer Connor Humm.
With the necessary grit required for a relegation battle, on top of possessing the quality to try and push Sunderland away from that mire, this really would be a standout addition to make for a £17m star also lauded as a “technician” by Chelsea great Joe Cole.
Lauriente might well have developed into a dazzling attacker under Le Bris’ wing, but if it’s readymade Premier League performers the ex-Lorient manager is after, he should ensure this move is sealed.
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