Former Arsenal defender Sol Campbell believes that Arne Slot is 'lucky' to have inherited this title-winning Liverpool squad. Slot succeeded Jurgen Klopp as Reds boss last year and won the Premier League title in his debut season at Anfield. By comparison, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has had to build his squad as the north London side look to pip the Reds to first this season.
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Slot turned Klopp's Liverpool squad into champions
Slot succeeded Klopp at the Liverpool helm last summer after the German's nine-year stint on Merseyside drew to a close. Klopp won his only Premier League title in the 2019/20 'Covid' season, and the Dutchman matched his predecessor's triumph in his first year at Anfield.
Liverpool made few changes to the Liverpool squad last year, with Federico Chiesa the only senior arrival in Slot's first summer at the club. However, as Klopp's Liverpool finished third in his final season in charge, Slot pipped both Manchester City and Arsenal to top spot in 2024/25.
The Reds have spent big this summer as they look to successfully defend their Premier League crown, bringing in the likes of Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz. Campbell, though, is more impressed with Arteta's Arsenal rebuild as the Gunners seek to secure a first domestic title in over 20 years.
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'He hasn’t changed much. He’s lucky.'
The ex-Arsenal centre-back believes that Slot is 'lucky' to have inherited the squad the Klopp assembled, and has hinted he is more impressed by Arteta's rebuild, saying: "I think slow is good sometimes. Some people are lucky. Arne Slot inherited a fantastic side and won the league. He hasn’t changed much. He’s lucky. A new manager, good bounce, players responded. Arteta had to get rid of some players, the deadwood.
"The last couple of years, he’s had pretty much the team. The centrepiece is the centre forward. Finally, they’ve got someone [Viktor Gyokeres, who joined from Sporting over the summer], but they’ve got to find out how to play him. But you have to build it.
"[William] Saliba wouldn’t have signed the contract [until 2030] as well if he didn’t believe Arsenal can win. They just have to win. This year they’ve got to win by hook or by crook – but you have work to get a lucky break."
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'The belief is there They know they can do it'
Arsenal went into the international break top of the Premier League following their 2-0 win over West Ham and Liverpool's late 2-1 loss at Chelsea last weekend. Estevao's second half injury time strike condemned the Reds to a third successive competitive defeat for the first time since 2023.
However, Campbell believes that the understanding in the Arsenal defence will be key as the Gunners look to top the Premier League pile next May, reserving praise for Jurrien Timber in the process.
On Timber, Campbell said: "I think Jurrien Timber is probably one of the best right backs in Europe at the moment. He’s incredible, can score goals, good in one-on-one scenarios. He’s definitely lost a little bit of time from his injury but he’s a top, top player."
And on Arsenal's defence, he added: "I think it comes down to the back five. They know what they’re doing now. They’re young, but it’s the maturity of their play now. The belief is there. They know they can do it."
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Arsenal have a favourable run coming up
Arsenal sit top of the Premier League table after seven games having collected 16 points so far. Victory over West Ham means they went into the international break ahead of Liverpool by a point after Slot's side fell to back-to-back late league losses.
And the Gunners have a favourable run of games following the domestic hiatus as they take on Fulham, Crystal Palace, Burnley and Sunderland before the November internationals. Arteta's men are also up against Atletico Madrid and Slavia Prague in the Champions League and Brighton in the EFL Cup over the coming weeks as the north London side seek to secure major silverware this season.
To some, Arsenal are now favourites to win the Premier League and Champions League having invested heavily over the summer, landing the likes of Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, Martin Zubimendi and Eberechi Eze, among others.
Both teams are looking to shake off a lean run in red-ball cricket as the 2025-27 cycle of the World Test Championship gets underway
Mohammad Isam16-Jun-2025Big picture: Galle set for spin-heavy scrapEven before South Africa could fire up the final celebratory after their triumph at Lord’s, the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle for 2025-27 is set to begin some 9,000 km away in Galle. Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, both looking to snap out of extended Test slumps, will kick off the new cycle, however, the looming threat of rain could dictate terms over the next five days.Sri Lanka return to red-ball cricket four months after a 2-0 home defeat to Australia, also in Galle. Bangladesh, meanwhile, have managed just two international wins since the start of the year and are visibly short on confidence. Despite fielding a squad with six uncapped players, Sri Lanka will believe this is an opportunity to get back on track, especially against a side that’s just as brittle.This series also marks the end of an era. Angelo Mathews will retire from Test cricket after this series, following in the footsteps of Dimuth Karunaratne, who bowed out after the Australia series earlier this year. Sri Lanka’s top order collapsed in that series, despite being one of the most productive Test batting units in 2024. Kamindu Mendis, one of their mainstays last year, has crossed fifty just once since January. To cover their bases, the selectors have brought in four uncapped batters – Lahiru Udara, Sonal Dinusha, Pavan Rathnayake, and Pasindu Sooriyabandara – all of whom have shown promise in domestic cricket and for Sri Lanka A.Prabath Jayasuriya was the third-highest wicket-taker among spinners in the last WTC cycle•AFP/Getty ImagesIn the spin department, Tharindu Rathnayake, the ambidextrous spinner with 337 first-class wickets, has earned a call-up, as has Akila Dananjaya, who could feature in a Test for the first time since 2019. Their main task will be to support Prabath Jayasuriya, who has carried Sri Lanka’s spin attack almost single-handedly in the past year. The fast-bowling department looks steadier, with allrounder Isitha Wijesundara and Kasun Rajitha in the running to make the XI.For Bangladesh, the concerns run just as deep. After splitting a Test series against Zimbabwe in April, their top-order remains erratic. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has just two half-centuries in his last ten Tests, while Mushfiqur Rahim hasn’t passed fifty in his last 13 innings. Though Shadman Islam and Anamul Haque shared a century stand against Zimbabwe, neither has delivered consistently. With no reserve openers in the squad, Shanto may be pushed to open if needed. Mominul Haque has struggled to convert starts, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz – despite his issues with the short ball – remains their leading run-scorer in recent Tests.Related
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Spin will be central to Bangladesh’s hopes in Galle, with Mehidy and Taijul Islam leading the charge. They’re backed up by Nayeem Hasan and uncapped left-arm spinner Hasan Murad. Ebadot Hossain returns to the squad for the first time in two years, while Hasan Mahmud and Nahid Rana offer pace options to complement an attack picked for the spin-friendly conditions.Sri Lanka-Bangladesh Tests have often lacked drama, with one side dominating. But with both teams rebuilding and their batting misfiring in 2024, this one might be more competitive. In the end, as always in Galle, it may just come down to which spin attack holds up better.Form guideSri Lanka: LLLLW (last five Tests, most recent first) Bangladesh: WLWLLIn the spotlight: Dinesh Chandimal and Mehidy Hasan MirazDinesh Chandimal was excellent in 2024. He hit two fifties against Australia in February, followed by solid returns in domestic first-class cricket and a brief PSL stint last month. Batting at his new position at No. 3, Chandimal remains a key threat. He averages 67.06 in 12 Tests against Bangladesh, with five centuries.Mehidy Hasan Miraz was Bangladesh’s standout performer in the Zimbabwe series, scoring a century and taking five wickets in their Chattogram win, after a ten-wicket haul in the Sylhet Test. One of Bangladesh’s few consistent players over the past two years, he has grown into the allrounder’s role in Shakib Al Hasan’s absence. In Sri Lanka, he’ll shoulder added responsibility with the ball in spin-friendly conditions.Mehidy will shoulder the allrounder’s responsibility, but will he be match-fit?•AFP/Getty ImagesTeam news: Three spinners for Bangladesh?Sri Lanka have to make four changes from the side that played against Australia in February. Karunaratne has retired, Lahiru Kumara is injured while they have dropped Ramesh Mendis and Nishan Peiris. There could be a debut for Udara, while Milan Rathnayake and Dananjaya could form a two-spin, two-pace attack.Sri Lanka (likely): 1 Pathum Nissanka, 2 Lahiru Udara, 3 Dinesh Chandimal, 4 Angelo Mathews, 5 Kamindu Mendis, 6 Dhananjaya de Silva (capt), 7 Kusal Mendis (wk), 8 Milan Rathnayake, 9 Prabath Jayasuriya, 10 Akila Dananjaya, 11 Asitha FernandoBangladesh are unlikely to fiddle with their top and middle order positions. They could tinker with their bowling attack by including three spinners, which will leave them with just one pace bowling option. There’s a slight concern around Mehidy, though, since he was reported to have a fever.Bangladesh (likely): 1 Shadman Islam, 2 Anamul Haque, 3 Mominul Haque, 4 Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt), 5 Mushfiqur Rahim, 6 Jaker Ali (wk), 7 Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 8 Nayeem Hasan, 9 Taijul Islam, 10 Hasan Murad, 11 Hasan MahmudPitch and conditions: Rain threat loomsSpinners consumed wickets in Galle, where both the Sri Lanka-Australia Tests were played earlier this year. But in between that there have also been two 600-plus first-innings totals over the last nine months. Pitches are likely to be conducive to slow bowling in this Test too. There’s rain forecast on all five days in Galle.Stats and trivia: Galle and spin Bangladesh have now played 21 successive Tests without a draw, equaling their longest run from 2001 to 2004. Their last drawn Test in this cycle was against Sri Lanka three years ago. Galle’s reputation for being a spin haven can be expressed in numbers too. Spinners have taken 373 wickets at Galle, the most at any venue since 2020. A wicket falls to spinners roughly once every ten overs at this venue. Awaiting their Test debuts, Tharindu Ratnayake has 337 first-class wickets while Lahiru Udara has 16 centuries in first-class cricket.Quotes”The best thing we can do for Angelo is win the match for him and give him a good farewell. Unfortunately we couldn’t do that for Dimuth. Personally I’m hoping we can do it for Angelo.”
Jack Haynes’ unbeaten fifty seals chase as Durham lose ground in congested qualification race
ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay11-Jul-2025Notts Outlaws kept their qualification hopes alive with a seven-wicket victory over Durham, who began the evening as marginal North Group leaders but ended it locked in a battle for the top four places that is still impossible to call.Chasing 157 to win on a slow pitch, Jack Haynes steered the Outlaws home with an unbeaten 55 off 40 balls with two sixes, backed up by Moises Henriques (43 off 33) and Joe Clarke (43 off 26), both of whom also cleared the ropes twice as Durham were beaten with eight balls to spare.Australian seamer Daniel Sams and offspinner Matt Montgomery, with a career-best 4 for 30, led for the Outlaws with the ball as Durham were all out for 156 in precisely 20 overs. Graham Clark passed 300 for the season with three sixes in his 27-ball 44, with finisher Jimmy Neesham making 29 off 17.Although they move on to 24 points, four behind Durham, the Outlaws’ chances are slightly more tenuous with just two matches left, while Durham have three to play.Clark cleared the ropes three times in the first four overs but Durham lost three wickets in the powerplay, left-handers Alex Lees and Ben McKinney falling to top-edges as they attempted to club Montgomery’s offspin over the short leg-side boundary before Haynes took a stunning, one-handed catch at mid-off as Colin Ackermann went without scoring, just a week after plundering 83 from 33 balls against Notts at Chester-le-Street.From 52 for 3 after six, Durham were 70 for 4 after 10 as the Outlaws spinners applied the brakes on a slow surface, the opening half of the innings concluding with Clark caught on the wide long-on boundary as Montgomery picked up a third wicket. A somewhat tortured 18 off 30 by Will Rhodes ended with a second brilliant catch by Haynes on the midwicket boundary as Durham reached 104 for 5 from 15.Ollie Robinson hit Montgomery straight to cover before Neesham and Kasey Aldridge blitzed 32 off 13 balls, some 21 coming off Calvin Harrison’s final over before Sams picked up his third with Aldridge missing a full, straight one and Ollie Stone ran all the way to the 30-yard circle to claim a superb caught-and-bowled as Potts departed.Neesham fell to another excellent boundary catch as Sams claimed his first four-wicket haul for Notts and Nathan Sowter was run out off the final ball of the innings but 52 from the last five overs gave Durham something to defend.They made a good start in that respect as Matty Potts had Freddie McCann caught behind and left-arm spinner Callum Parkinson conceded just seven in his two powerplay overs but Ackermann went for 21 as Clarke twice cleared the ropes on the offside but the Notts skipper fell for 43 attempting to scoop Aldridge in the eighth, he and Haynes adding 63 off 37 balls.The Outlaws were bang on the required rate at 79 for 2 from 10 and sensible batting by Haynes and Henriques brought the target down to 38 from the last 30 balls as Durham struggled to create a chance, the Australian allrounder clearing long-off for six off Aldridge and hauling another maximum off Neesham before slicing the same bowler to fall for 43.By then, though the Outlaws were well on track, Haynes completing his fifty from 38 balls before Tom Moores pulled Neesham for the winning boundary.
From their worst-ever Premier League finish, to managerial changes and a Europa League final defeat, it certainly was a year to forget for Manchester United in 2024/25.
Ruben Amorim was chosen as the man to try and save the sinking ship after Erik ten Hag’s dismissal, aiming to bring the glory days back to Old Trafford during his tenure.
He alluded to their struggles when taking the reins, but promised that ‘better days are coming’ – still, as everyone knows, actions speak louder than words at the top-level of professional football.
Judgement on whether his ambitions come to fruition will be seen in due course, as England’s top-flight once again gears up for another year of promise, disappointment and expectations.
A mammoth reaction is needed from everyone associated with the Red Devils in the coming months, especially after the backing provided by the board during the off-season.
Manchester United manager RubenAmorimduring training
Man Utd’s hunt to land a new midfield star
Their failures on the pitch in recent times are there for all to see, but there’s no question the United board are showcasing their attempts to prevent such an embarrassing year from reoccurring down the line.
Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have all been recruited to improve the frontline, resulting in a whopping £200m already being splashed in the summer window.
Carlos Baleba alternatives
After such moves, reports of landing a new midfielder have intensified, with such a hunt leading them to Brighton star Carlos Baleba – albeit being a complex move given his £100m price tag.
The Cameroonian isn’t alone on their shortlist, as Amorim seemingly wants a reunion with Sporting CP star Morten Hjulmand – leading to The Sun reporting a potential £50m bid is currently being lined up.
Within the piece, it’s claimed that the player himself would be open to switching to England, but any move could hinge on any development in the move for Baleba.
With the trasfer deadline now rapidly approaching in the rearview mirror, it’s vital the right move is made to allow the players currently on the books to thrive alongside any new addition.
How United’s £50m target would impact United’s midfield
United’s failures in recent times have largely been down to poor recruitment, forking out mammoth sums for talents who’ve been unable to adapt to the demands of the Premier League.
Erik ten Hag
However, the same can’t be said for one man – Bruno Fernandes, who may well end his career at Old Trafford as one of their greatest ever purchases.
No supporter could’ve foreseen the impact he would make, after the board forked out an initial £47m to prise him away from Sporting in January 2020.
The Portuguese international – who’s since been made club captain – has amassed a staggering 98 goals from his deep-lying position, often being the club’s go-to in terms of goal contributions.
However, the arrival of the attacking trio will likely take such responsibility off his shoulders, able to form a partnership with Hjulmand – solving the massive issue which has been apparent at the heart of the side.
Morten Hjulmand for Sporting Lisbon
Like Fernandes, the Dane may be an unknown quantity to many at present, but any move to the Theatre of Dreams could catapult himself to stardom, whilst aiding Amorim’s ambitions of bringing the glory days back to the club.
According to FBref, Hjulmand ranked in the 99th percentile for passes completed (90%), offering a needed composed figure to the side – who sat sixth in average possession in the Premier League throughout 2024/25.
Games played
28
Goals & assists
4
Pass accuracy
90%
Progressive passes
6.4
Take-on success
62%
Passes into final third
6.7
Tackles won
2.2
Interceptions made
1.1
Aerial success
56%
Being comfortable on the ball is always important in a system that demands intricate play, but the 26-year-old has also demonstrated his ability to break the lines in Portugal.
He made 6.7 passes into the final third per 90, ranking him in the top 8% of all players in Europe – ultimately leading to analyst Ben Mattinson labelling him a “complete midfielder”.
Such comments also take his ball-winning ability into account, notching 2.2 tackles won and 1.1 interceptions made per 90 – numbers which could put an end to the club’s hunt for a new midfielder.
Hjulmand’s all-round quality would allow him to operate slightly deeper, seeing Bruno take up a free role ahead of him, enabling him to continue his phenomenal levels of output in attacking areas.
Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres celebrates scoring their second goal with Sporting CP's MortenHjulmand
Now, the question becomes whether Amorim pursues a move for his former player, or breaks the bank and makes a club-record move to prise Baleba away from the Seagulls’ clutches.
A move for Hjulmand would make perfect sense, already knowing the demands of the manager, but also offering a much cheaper alternative for the hierarchy.
The new additions are undoubtedly providing excitement within the fanbase, but it remains vital they don’t neutralise players like Bruno as a result – with the Sporting star able to aid the captain in taking the Red Devils up the table in 2025/26.
New Pogba: INEOS chasing "extraordinary" Baleba alternative for Man Utd
Manchester United are preparing a move for a new midfielder and it’s not Carlos Baleba.
While it might be something of a cliché, this season does feel like it’s going to be Nottingham Forest’s most important in a very long time.
Nuno Espírito Santo’s side will need to prove that their form in the Premier League last year was no fluke, and on top of that, they’ll want to go as far as they possibly can in the Europa League.
Fortunately, there’s no reason to suspect that the Tricky Trees won’t be as good as they were last season, especially since the talismanic Morgan Gibbs-White is set to remain at the City Ground for the foreseeable future.
Moreover, while losing Anthony Elanga isn’t ideal, the club now look set to land someone who could be the perfect replacement.
Forest target perfect Elanga replacement
While the Gibbs-White saga has understandably dominated the headlines when it comes to Forest this summer, the club have made several smart additions to Nuno’s team so far.
Transfer Focus
Jair Cunha, for example, looks like he could develop into a useful defender for the side, while Dan Ndoye and Igor Jesus produced a combined tally of 25 goal involvements last season, which could make all the difference this year.
However, there are still just over two weeks until the window slams shut, and the Tricky Trees seem intent on making the most of that time, reportedly set to welcome Ipswich Town’s Omari Hutchinson to the club, alongside Arnaud Kalimuendo.
Nottingham Forest's AnthonyElangareacts
Yet, according to a recent report from mainland Europe, Forest are also closing in on signing Dilane Bakwa.
The Belgian journalist has revealed that, while the club have seen their €26m + €5m (£22m + £4m) rejected by Strasbourg, the two clubs are now much “closer to an agreement” than before, and the transfer is now “almost there.”
While Tavolieri does not mention what the final fee for the French winger is likely to be, a story from L’Équipe from earlier this month claimed that the French side value him at up to €35m, which is about £35m, and while that is a lot of money, Bakwa would be worth it.
Why Bakwa would be a perfect Elanga replacement
So, while there is no debating that Elanga was brilliant for Forest last season and one of their most important attackers, it certainly appears that not only would Bakwa be a great replacement, but potentially even an upgrade.
For example, when it comes to their pure output last season, which is fundamentally what matters most for any attacker, it’s the Frenchman who comes out on top.
In his 31 appearances for Strasbourg, the dangerous “diamond,” as dubbed by journalist Zach Lowy, scored six goals and provided nine assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.06 games.
In contrast, the Swedish international scored six goals and provided 12 assists, but did so in 43 appearances, which comes out to a far less impressive average of a goal involvement every 2.38 games.
However, it’s not just their output that paints the 22-year-old in a better light, as he comes out comfortably on top when we take a look under the hood at their underlying numbers.
Non-Penalty Expected G+As
0.41
0.36
Progressive Passes
4.66
2.27
Progressive Passes Received
8.99
8.24
Progressive Carries
3.86
3.67
Shots
1.87
1.58
Shots on Target
0.79
0.86
Passing Accuracy
72.9%
65.3%
Key Passes
1.70
1.80
Passes into the Final Third
2.42
1.15
Passes into the Penalty Area
1.44
0.94
Crosses into the Penalty Area
0.36
0.29
Live Passes
34.7
25.1
Shot-Creating Actions
3.97
3.67
Goal-Creating Actions
0.58
0.65
Tackles
0.94
0.68
Blocks
0.76
0.40
Interceptions
0.54
0.22
Clearances
0.97
0.90
Successful Take-Ons
1.81
0.90
In fact, it’s not even close, as the Créteil-born gem comes out ahead in almost every single relevant metric, including but not limited to non-penalty goals plus assists, progressive passes and carries, shot-creating actions, tackles, interceptions and more, all per 90.
In other words, the Ligue 1 ace looks to already be a relatively complete winger, who is as capable of creating chances as he is scoring them, and has no problem tracking back to do his defensive work either.
Ultimately, while he might cost them a little more than they were planning, Forest should be doing all they can to sign Bakwa as soon as possible, as not only does he look like the perfect replacement for Elanga, but he is also a potential upgrade.
Their new Gibbs-White: Nottingham Forest in race to land £30m star on loan
The hugely exciting gem could be a game-changer for Forest this season.
Liverpool have made a bid to sign a “monster” defender for Arne Slot, however, FSG’s offer hasn’t gone down well with the selling club.
Slot assesses Liverpool’s centre-back options
The Reds are preparing to defend their Premier League title with an opening Friday night game against Bournemouth on August 15.
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Before then, Liverpool will take on FA Cup winners Crystal Palace at Wembley in the Community Shield, and supporters should get to see a number of new faces in action ahead of the new campaign.
Florian Wirtz
Bayer Leverkusen
£116m
Hugo Ekitike
Frankfurt
£69m
Milos Kerkez
Bournemouth
£40m
Jeremie Frimpong
Bayer Leverkusen
£29.5m
Armin Pecsi
Puskas Akademia
£1.5m
Freddie Woodman
Preston North End
Free
Will Wright
Salford City
£200k
As can be seen, FSG have backed Slot in the transfer market by splashing more cash than any other Premier League side this summer.
More arrivals could still be on the way before the September 1 deadline, though, with a new centre-back not yet secured. Talking recently, Slot admitted that Liverpool are yet to replace Jarell Quansah, who joined Bayer Leverkusen, but shared how Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo may fill in if required.
A number of defenders have been linked with moves to Anfield, including Palace star Marc Guehi and Parma teenager Giovanni Leoni.
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Liverpool still need to sign a centre-back in the summer transfer market.
ByAngus Sinclair Aug 6, 2025
Guehi would be the more proven addition of the two, and a new update has now emerged regarding a possible move to Merseyside.
Liverpool submit two offers for Marc Guehi
According to journalist Santi Aouna on X, Liverpool have made two offers to sign Guehi from the Eagles, however, both proposals have been turned down.
The Reds are now ‘exploring other defensive targets’, and in his Foot Mercato report, Aouna added that Palace want €55m (£48m) for Guehi and were left insulted by Liverpool’s offers.
It remains to be seen how much Liverpool put on the table for Guehi, but it seems as if the defensive “monster” will be lining up against them at Wembley on August 10.
The 25-year-old has less than 12 months remaining on his Selhurst Park contract, so his future could be one to keep an eye on, and it wouldn’t be a complete shock if FSG returned with a third bid over the coming weeks.
Juventus star Gleison Bremer is reportedly being monitored by both Liverpool and Manchester United ahead of the January window with the pair aware of a €55 million (£48m/$65m) release clause. While Juventus are keen to keep hold of Bremer, Premier League sides could potentially secure his signature by offering between €70-80 million (£61m/$82m-£70m/94m), according to Italian outlet Tutto Juve. The race is heating up as Europe’s elite monitor one of Serie A’s standout defenders.
Liverpool ‘firmly focused’ on Bremer
The report claims that Liverpool are “firmly focused” on the Brazilian, seeing him as a vital upgrade for Arne Slot’s backline. Bremer has bounced back impressively from a serious injury suffered last season, reasserting himself as one of the Serie A’s most reliable centre-backs.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesMan United also in the mix
It’s not just Liverpool keeping tabs as United are reportedly monitoring Bremer’s situation closely, with Juventus fully aware of the interest from Old Trafford. Despite this, the Italian giants have made it clear informally that selling the defender is not part of their plans, at least in the winter.
Release Clause could spark January drama
Interestingly, Bremer’s contract runs until 2029, giving Juventus long-term security. However, the €55m release clause is valid between next June and July, creating a potential window for clubs to swoop in. Tutto Juve notes that if Juventus wish to remove this clause, they could offer Bremer a new contract, effectively nullifying the threat and keeping Premier League suitors at bay.
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CalciomercatoBremer’s immediate focus: Serie A battle
Amid the swirling transfer rumours, Bremer remains focused on his current responsibilities with Juventus. The Serie A side are set to face Atalanta on Saturday, and the defender will be aiming to maintain his strong form to churn out a clean sheet against the Bergamo side.
They’ve not lost a series to New Zealand in 21 years
Andrew McGlashan05-Oct-2020Australia 6 for 255 (Lanning 101*, Haynes 82, Kerr 3-47) beat New Zealand 9 for 252 (Devine 79, Satterthwaite 69, Jonassen 4-36) by four wicketsMeg Lanning produced another chasing masterclass, bringing up her 14th ODI century with the winning boundary, as Australia extended their hold on the Rose Bowl to 21 years. Their four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the 2nd ODI also gave them a chance to equal the world record of consecutive ODI wins held by Ricky Ponting’s 2003 team.Lanning, who appeared to be battling a tweaked right hamstring for much of her innings, and Rachael Haynes put on 117 for the second wicket to break the back of their chase of 256. This is the biggest target Australia has needed to chase in their 20-match winning run. ALSO READ: Meg Lanning: ‘Been more willing to show emotions, build relationships with the squad’
Amelia Kerr claimed three wickets, including two in consecutive balls, to leave Australia needing 57 with five wickets in hand. But they still got home quite comfortably in the end, as Lanning remained a calming, nerveless figure. Annabel Sutherland, who had shown her batting credentials on T20I debut against England earlier this year, gave another display of her talent in a settling stand of 49 to see off the chase.A Lanning six off a free hit against Kerr for a fielding regulation infringement helped ease the pressure although it appeared the captain could pull up short of three figures when Nicola Carey struck a boundary to leave three runs needed, but she then blocked out the rest of the over and Lanning produced a trademark late cut to crown her match.New Zealand produced a much better batting display than the opening game as Sophie Devine and Amy Satterthwaite both struck half-centuries before strong flurries from Katie Martin and Maddy Green, but a late collapse of 5 for 2 in nine balls sapped the momentum in the closing overs.Alyssa Healy threatened something destructive at the beginning of the chase when she took 14 off the first over from Lea Tahuhu – who was later forced off with a back injury early in her second spell. Though she was bowled by Devine, Lanning and Haynes were barely troubled as they chipped away briskly at the target.Haynes was superbly fluent as she collected 58 of her 89 runs in boundaries, which included a six onto the grass banks, regularly threading the ball through the off side and it came as big surprise when she picked out cover against a full toss from Devine.Getty Images
Kerr then gave New Zealand a glimmer of upsetting the chase. Beth Mooney was lbw when she missed a leg-break that took the back leg, Sophie Molineux did not pick the googly as she advanced down the pitch and Ash Gardner edged her first ball to leave Kerr on a hat-trick – the third such opportunity of the day – and Australia on 5 for 196 but there was never any run-rate pressure.New Zealand had been forced to reshuffle their batting order after injury had ruled Suzie Bates out of the series. It meant Devine pushed herself up to open and alongside Natalie Dodd was able to build a solid start with an opening stand of 75 in 18 overs.Devine and Satterthwaite then put all their experience to good use, although Australia never allowed the run rate to escape from them. There was, however, more proactivity against the spinners than in the opening match where the New Zealand batters had become stuck.Satterthwaite initially struggled to find her timing and was 18 off 33 balls before finding her stride in what became an increasingly fluent innings. She took three boundaries off an over by Carey and brought up her half-century from 58 balls.Australia were able to build pressure on Devine and the frustration of not being able to up her scoring rate was showing when she top-edged a sweep off Jess Jonassen. Kerr picked out mid-on against Carey and when Sattherthwaite chipped a return catch to Molineux, New Zealand needed to find someone to give the innings a strong finish.Martin and Green did an excellent job in a stand of 42 in less than four overs where, just briefly, it felt like Australia were losing a little bit of control but Jonassen removed both in consecutive ball in the penultimate over and would end up taking three in the over.Megan Schutt also found herself on a hat-trick in the final over and that late clatter of wickets may have been the difference between 250 and 270, although even the latter may not have been enough against this Australia team – and the master of a run chase, Meg Lanning.
Reporter Pete O'Rourke has dropped a worrying update regarding the future of Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, ahead of a potentially major summer saga.
Everton incomings & outgoings
The Merseysiders will be hoping to get to the end of the season as unscathed as possible, retaining their Premier League status amid a number of point deductions.
As long as Everton avoid relegation to the Championship, they should still be able to entice good players to the club, and VfL Wolfsburg centre-back Maxence Lacroix has been linked with a move at the end of the current campaign.
Juventus youngster Samuel Iling-Junior, who has been hailed as an "assist machine", has also been backed to join the Blues in the near future, with the young Englishman struggling to nail down a regular spot at his current club. He has scored seven times for England at youth team level, representing six different age groups including the Under-21s.
Samuel Iling-Junior
There are also plenty of players who could leave Goodison Park this summer, with Amadou Onana arguably the player who has been linked with a move away most often. The Belgian midfielder is thought to be wanted by a host of big clubs, including Premier League pair Arsenal and Newcastle United, along with La Liga giants Barcelona.
Branthwaite is also a target for some huge teams, from Manchester City to Manchester United, with the centre-back possibly feeling that now is the right time to enjoy a new challenge at a club challenging for major honours. He has been hailed as "magnificent" by Alan Shearer and "very brave" by Ian Wright.
It remains to be seen if Jordan Pickford will still be an Everton player when the 2024/25 season gets underway, too, but Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar has been lined up as a positive replacement for him, should he move on.
Everton suffer brutal Jarrad Branthwaite update
According to Football Insider's O'Rourke, Everton could now lose Branthwaite for a cut-price amount in the summer, having wanted £70m for him originally. It is described as an "unexpected and demoralising twist", as the club may be forced to cash in for a lower sum in order to raise funds before the next financial accounts deadline on June 30.
Losing the 21-year-old in the summer is bad enough, considering what a fantastic young player he is, but having to let him go for less than the desired amount would be an extra blow, especially at a time when the Blues are having financial issues already.
In truth, it almost makes the most sense for Everton to cash in on Branthwaite, using the funds to bring in a number of strong signings instead rather than one outright replacement. The same applies to Onana, but it should only be for massive figures that both balance the books and allow for reinvestment into the team.
Jarrad Branthwaite's Premier League stats this season
Total
Appearances
28
Starts
28
Clearances per game
4.5
Aerial duel wins per game
2.7
Tackles per game
1.9
Interceptions per game
1.6
Pass completion rate
79.4%
The hope is that the situation surrounding the Englishman and his price tag changes, but it would be typical of the Blues' struggles at the moment to have to accept losing a prized asset on the cheap.
A "world-class" Manchester City star has made a big decision over his future, according to a significant update, with one key factor behind his reasoning.
Man City transfer news
Pep Guardiola will want some impressive new signings to once again come in and freshen things up this summer, with various big names linked with moves to the Etihad of late. Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite has been backed to move down the M62 this summer, having been one of the few shining lights in a disappointing season for the Blues. He is seen as a potential long-term successor for John Stones, possessing some similar attributes to the current Cityzens star.
Meanwhile, Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar has also been linked with a move to City, should Stefan Ortega move on, with the Serbian making a combined 18 appearances in Serie A and the Europa League this season.
Mile Svilar for AS Roma.
Perhaps the most exciting option to emerge recently is Bayern Munich superstar Jamal Musiala, however, with the 21-year-old possibly keen on sealing a return to England in the summer window, having joined the Bundesliga giants from Chelsea back in 2019.
It is also essential that City's current big stars remain at the club moving forward, with one encouraging recent update suggesting that Rodri is set to be handed a big-money new deal. The Spaniard is arguably his side's most influential performer, having now gone a record 60 matches unbeaten in the Premier League.
Now, a big update has emerged regarding another undisputed City legend, in what represents worrying news for supporters.
"World-class" Man City ace wants to leave
According to a new claim from Football Insider, Manchester City ace Bernardo Silva wants to leave this summer, citing the bad weather in England as a reason for his decision. He wants a "better style of living" away from his current location, suggesting that a move abroad is now on the cards at the end of the season.
Bernardo Silva celebrates scoring for Manchester City.
The 29-year-old has been linked with moves away from the Etihad in the past, but ended up staying put, and he now has 345 appearances to his name, winning five Premier League titles and one Champions League, among numerous other trophies.
The £300,000-a-week star has been hailed as "world-class by pundits on Sky Sports News, while Guardiola has waxed lyrical over one of his favourite players he has ever coached in his career.
Granted, Bernardo does turn 30 in August, so some could see sense in cashing in on him this summer, but he is showing absolutely no sign of being past his best.