Ipswich Town are now in talks to sign a “fantastic” midfielder who manager Kieran McKenna is a big admirer of, chairman Mark Ashton has revealed.

Ipswich preparing for life in the Championship

It was always going to be a tall order for Ipswich to avoid relegation from the Premier League, but much like when Burnley went down under Sean Dyche the first time around, Ipswich seemingly think they can come straight back up if they stick by their manager.

However, there are now some doubts surrounding McKenna’s future at Portman Road, with widespread reports suggesting the 39-year-old could be Brentford’s first-choice target to replace Thomas Frank, should the Danish manager complete a move to Tottenham Hotspur.

Having led the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions, it will be a difficult task to find an heir to the Englishman, while signing a replacement for Liam Delap could also be tricky, given the 22-year-old managed to score an impressive 12 goals in his debut Premier League campaign.

Middlesbrough’s Emmanuel Latte Lath is one of the targets to replace Delap at striker, but Ashton has revealed that Ipswich are also looking to reinforce their midfield this summer.

The chairman has now confirmed that talks have been held over a deal for former loanee Jens Cajuste, saying: “Jens is a loan player who I think has done really well for us.

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“He’s had some challenges with injury this season, which have been well documented.

“Our conversations with Jens are ongoing. A deal for Jens to be here for the long term, it would need to be something that’s right for us, him and his club – and that dialogue continues.”

Mckenna has also admitted he’s a big fan of the midfielder, adding: “We’ve loved having Jens here, but there’s probably a lot to do for that to happen. We’ll see what the next few weeks brings.”

"Fantastic" Cajuste could be real coup for Ipswich

The Ipswich boss was clearly impressed by the Swedish midfielder’s performances last season, praising him for showing “fantastic character” against Nottingham Forest in April, and given that the manager knows the 25-year-old very well, he could be an ideal signing.

Not only does the £35k-a-week maestro have Premier League experience, but he has previously featured regularly for Napoli in Serie A and Reims in Ligue 1, so the Tractor Boys securing a permanent deal could be a real statement of intent.

McKenna certainly knows what it takes to win promotion, and the signing of Cajuste could fuel his side’s Championship title bid next season, although Luton Town suffering back-to-back relegations to League 1 should serve as a warning to not get carried away.

Manchester United are set for a huge summer transfer window if they are to rise up the table and be a success in the Premier League throughout 2025/26.

The Red Devils finished in a measly 15th position last time around, registering their lowest points tally and finish since the division formed back in 1992.

Ruben Amorim was unable to work his magic after being appointed back in November, but this window presents him with the chance to make his desired changes at Old Trafford.

The likes of Jonny Evans, Christian Eriksen and Victor Lindelof will all depart at the end of the month, raising key funds in their pursuit of landing key targets.

With the window reopening on Monday, it allows the club to add to the signing of Matheus Cunha, with multiple additions needed if they are to have any chance of pushing for European football.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions

All areas of the pitch are expected to be subject to investment as the hierarchy looks to hand Amorim with the tools he needs to be a success at Theatre of Dreams.

Hugo Ekitiké, Richard Rios and Ronald Araujo are just three names thrown into the mix over recent months, but as of yet, no deals have yet been agreed for any of the aforementioned talents.

However, serious moves have been made to land Copenhagen star Rooney Bardghji before the end of the transfer window, that’s according to GIVEMESPORT’s latest update.

They claim that the Red Devils have held talks with the Danish side over a move for the 19-year-old, who’s previously scored against United in the Champions League.

It also states that he’s seen as one of Europe’s most promising stars, but has endured somewhat of a dismal spell with injuries, only making six appearances in 2024/25.

Why United’s latest target would be a more exciting signing than Mbeumo

Over recent weeks, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo has been the most likely star to make the move to join United and further aid Amorim’s attempts in the final third.

The Cameroonian has starred in the Premier League throughout 2024/25, scoring 20 times in his 38 appearances, undoubtedly being the shining light in the Bees’ side.

Such a record has led to the Red Devils’ keen interest, even making a £55m bid for the attacker, but it was swiftly rejected with a £70m price tag mooted.

They face huge competition from Tottenham Hotspur for his signature this window, with the Lilywhites potentially having the edge given the appointment of his former boss, Thomas Frank.

However, given the interest from elsewhere, it’s led to a move for Bardghji, with the Swedish youngster a more exciting and upcoming talent than Mbeumo, with Amorim needing to pursue a move for his signature.

The teenager, who’s been labelled “very special” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, hasn’t had the opportunity to showcase his talents this campaign, but has previously demonstrated the elite-level talent at his disposal.

In the 2023/24 campaign, he thrived in the Champions League, completing 90% of the passes he attempted and creating 1.9 chances per 90 – highlighting his ability to provide for teammates in attacking areas.

Roony Bardghji’s stats for Copenhagen in the UCL (2023/24)

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

9

Goals scored

1

Pass accuracy

90%

Chances created

1.9

Dribbles completed

3.8

Dribble success rate

75%

Shots taken

2.8

Stats via FotMob

He also managed to complete 3.8 dribbles per 90, at a completion rate of 75%, posing a real threat with the ball at his feet and starring in a competition Mbeumo has yet to be in his career.

Bardghji’s effort against United in such a period is evidence of the brilliance he’s able to produce when featuring on the pitch, having the potential to explode into a top-level talent when injury-free.

Given his tender age, he has bags of time to reach his full potential and build on the impressive start he’s made to his professional career at Copenhagen.

Should he move to United, he would hand Amorim a new dimension, certainly offering a more exciting signing than the Brentford star, given the levels he’s produced and the room he still has to grow over the next few years.

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Posts 1 ByEthan Lamb Jun 18, 2025

How sad that Liverpool’s smart business sense in the transfer market will likely prevent Arne Slot’s side from becoming engaged in the frenzied crowd come August, when panic stations are manned ahead of the impending closure date.

Ah well. There are worse problems for a side to have. Liverpool, having won the Premier League with relative ease last season, have already completed a series of signings to plug gaps ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, where a title must be defended and where expectations will be heightened across tournamental fronts, where the Reds perhaps fell flat.

Still, that shiny league title softened the blow of losing the Carabao Cup final, did it not? However, we can’t deny that Liverpool suffered a dip around spring, a rough patch which limited the scope of Slot’s extraordinary success.

More quality was needed, and that’s why Richard Hughes has overseen such an imperious start to the summer market, with the sporting director now turning his head toward central defence.

Why Liverpool want a centre-back

Earlier in June, Liverpool agreed to sell Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen for £30m plus add-ons. A buyback clause has been written into the contract.

The move will not be finalised until the defender completes his duties with England at the U21 European Championship, but he won’t be a Liverpool player next season.

With a question mark also hanging over Ibrahima Konate, Liverpool have set their sights on Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, who is anticipated to leave Selhurst Park this summer. Anfield has emerged as the leading suitor in the race.

We all know of Real Madrid’s expertise in warping Spanish media, but the fact remains that Konate has been left ‘disappointed’ after rejecting Liverpool’s latest contract offer, and is indeed heading into the final year of his £70k-per-week contract.

However, if Liverpool fail to get a deal for Guehi over the line, a fresh face will still be needed to strengthen the rearguard.

Liverpool register interest in Guehi alternative

According to transfer insider Graeme Bailey, Liverpool have entered the race for Spanish centre-back Cristhian Mosquera, who plays for Valencia in La Liga.

Transfer Focus

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

Though the Reds will slow the pace after their breakneck start to the window, Hughes will remain attentive to opportunities and is keeping a close eye on the 21-year-old as Arsenal begin to accelerate their own interest.

Indeed, The Athletic’s David Ornstein revealed that the Gunners are locked in talks for the rising star, with a €20m (£17m) being agreed.

If Liverpool want to complete a hijack, they will need to move fast.

Why Liverpool want Cristhian Mosquera

Guehi would bring a certain completeness to Liverpool, and he’s proven in the Premier League besides, but he’d cost quite a fee at £50m.

If a breakthrough is found vis-à-vis Konate, would it make sense to launch such a bid, especially when Guehi already harbours certain reservations about playing time?

He’s an excellent player, but Mosquera is showing significant potential and could be a worthwhile project for Slot and his coaching team over the next few years, especially as he’s already shown a certain precocity in chalking up 90 senior appearances for Valencia, having turned 21 today.

Across the 2024/25 campaign, the Spaniard, born and reared in Alicante to Colombian parents, Mosquera actually started 37 of Valencia’s league fixtures, with his one absence coming when his side faced Barcelona at Camp Nou. They lost 7-1.

Coincidence? Likely not. The hulking defender’s natural ease in high-pressure situations would have been perfect for that match, and when looking at how his metrics compare to Guehi’s over the players’ respective league seasons, you begin to see exactly why he’s so coveted.

Matches (starts)

37 (37)

34 (34)

Goals

1

3

Assists

0

2

Clean sheets

8

11

Touches*

65.7

64.9

Pass completion

91%

84%

Key passes*

0.0

0.5

Ball recoveries*

5.1

4.3

Dribbles (success)*

0.1 (56%)

0.4 (86%)

Tackles + interceptions*

2.4

2.6

Clearances*

3.3

4.6

Ground duels (won)*

2.3 (70%)

2.9 (63%)

Aerial duels (won)*

1.1 (45%)

2.0 (54%)

Just a reminder that Mosquera is only 21. You really can see why Arsenal are so interested in bringing him over to the Emirates. However, Mosquera’s blend of steely tackling and crisp passing play, those fundamental defensive virtues, could be developed into something world-class at Anfield.

Slot promotes a ball-playing game, and he expects his centre-halves to contribute, picking out those in space upfield to spark a devastating transition.

And if that weren’t enough, Mosquera also ranked among the top 18% of central defenders in La Liga last term for progressive carries and the top 7% for ball recoveries per 90, as per FBref, emphasising a mobility to rival Guehi’s and indeed an athleticism which allows him to roam about, hoovering up danger and recycling it into something positive.

This is an interesting element for any defender to equip to their toolkit, but when you are so naturally talented in winning the ball back, as Mosquera is, a “truly magnificent centre-back” is created, as has been noted by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Moreover, Mosquera’s success in the air might not be great, but it will improve. Guehi, too, finds his stronger challenges come on the ground, and so it’s curious indeed that the La Liga star is already performing to a higher standard in that regard, in fact superior to all his positional peers across Spain’s top flight as well.

No doubt, Palace have the more refined man. However, given Liverpool already boast two of the finest defenders on the globe in Konate and skipper Virgil van Dijk, does it not make sense to sign the developing star, who could learn from the superstars already under Slot’s wing ahead of a more prominent role in the coming years?

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ByAngus Sinclair Jun 27, 2025

The transfer window hasn’t been a happy hunting ground for Newcastle United in recent times, with the Magpies notably enduring a protracted saga involving Marc Guehi last summer, prior to also seeing a bid rejected for Anthony Elanga on Deadline Day.

Fast forward almost 12 months, and little has changed in that regard, with a fresh bid for that man Elanga having been swiftly knocked back by Nottingham Forest, with moves for Burnley’s James Trafford and Brighton’s Joao Pedro also proving difficult to get over the line.

With a return to Champions League football looming, Eddie Howe and co can ill-afford another messy summer, having thus far only secured the capture of Spanish teenager Antonito Cordero on a free transfer from Malaga.

Keeping hold of the likes of Alexander Isak, Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes may be viewed as almost as key as any potential incoming, but the Tynesiders are in need of a squad capable of challenging, not just a starting XI.

With that in mind, there may be reason for encouragement amid the news that Newcastle are in the mix for an exciting Premier League talent.

Latest on Newcastle's transfer search

For all the frustration over the Magpies’ lack of business thus far, it is to their credit that the club are seeking to pursue proven, ready-made Premier League talents, in the form of Pedro and Elanga.

Whether that duo to eventually arrive at St James’ Park remains to be seen, although they would provide Howe with the ability to make an instant impact in the top-flight, without the need for any period of adaptation.

The same could also be said of Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott, with journalist Graeme Bailey reporting that Newcastle are among a raft of Premier League clubs to have made a move for the 22-year-old.

Transfer Focus

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

Indeed, the suggestion is that contact has been made after an initial enquiry was lodged, with the Carabao Cup winners said to be watching developments closely, amid the prospect of the England U21 star sealing a departure from Anfield.

Not only would Newcastle have to fend off rival English suitors for his signature, but they may also need to contend with the looming presence of Jurgen Klopp, with the German keen to take Elliott to RB Leipzig.

For whoever does ultimately nudge ahead in that race, the suggestion is that the playmaker would command a fee of more than £40m, with two years left on his existing deal.

Why Elliott would be a good signing for Newcastle

That potential £40m fee may have a few eyebrows raised, should any suitor cough up to meet the asking price, not least with Elliott having started just two league games last term under Arne Slot.

With that being said, Newcastle have previously reaped the rewards of a similar investment, having forked out what at the time looked to be an eye-watering £45m sum for Elliott’s former England youth colleague, Anthony Gordon.

Indeed, the promising forward had scored just seven times in 78 games at Everton, prior to making the switch in January 2023, with the Magpies gambling on his potential, rather than his record at the time.

Despite enduring a trickier 2024/25 campaign, which yielded just nine goals and seven assists in all competitions, the 24-year-old was an electric force the previous season, notching 28 goals and assists in total.

That had come after an initially quiet first six months at St James’, with Gordon appearing to be revived by his performances at the U21 European Championship in the summer of 2023, having scored twice en route to England’s glory.

Elliott, currently something of a bit-part player at club level, has also taken on a talismanic presence for the Young Lions this time around, with the versatile left-footer having scored five goals amid the surge to the final.

That return included a stunning, solo effort against the Netherlands in the semi-final, with the one-time Fulham starlet only rubberstamping why he is a simply “special” talent, in the words of former Reds striker, Neil Mellor.

Games (starts)

6 (6)

Goals

5

Assists

0

Big chances created

0

Key passes*

1.7

Pass accuracy*

82%

Tackles & interceptions*

1.2

Balls recovered*

4.0

Successful dribbles*

0.7

In a similar manner to Gordon on the Blue half of Merseyside, Elliott hasn’t exactly pulled up any trees at Anfield to date, with 35 goals and assists in 147 games, although he has shown more than a flicker of his quality.

Ranking in the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for non-penalty goals per 90, as per FBref, Elliott has illustrated what he can do when given a rare outing, with a new home perhaps what is needed for his brilliance to be truly unlocked.

Gordon, once released by Liverpool as a teenager, has dazzled in his new home on Tyneside. Why can’t his compatriot do the same?

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1 ByAngus Sinclair Jun 27, 2025

This has been a testing first window as Arsenal Sporting Director for Andrea Berta so far. Then again, it was never going to be easy was it?

The Gunners desperately need a new striker and the footballing world knows that. RB Leipzig and Sporting are trying to milk Arsenal for all Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres are worth.

The Londoners have reportedly held talks to sign both players but at this moment in time, a deal doesn’t look too forthcoming.

Still, Arsenal are active and Berta is working his socks off to ensure that Mikel Arteta’s side are ready for that opening weekend’s encounter against Manchester United.

The arrival of Martin Zubimendi will certainly help.

Arsenal’s pursuit of new midfielders

The Gunners are set to confirm the arrival of Zubimendi from Real Sociedad any day now.

The Spaniard was first linked with the club back in January when it was revealed that Arsenal were ready to trigger the midfielder’s release clause.

Fast forward several months and a deal is now on the verge of completion with it reported that he was in London over the weekend to tie up the formalities of his switch to the Emirates Stadium.

Zubimendi isn’t the only midfielder Arsenal have been tracking.

Indeed, according to TBR Football, they are ‘trying’ to sign PSG’s highly talented teenager, Warren Zaire-Emery.

Transfer Focus

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

Expand Collapse

They understand that the Gunners started talks with the Champions League winners last week regarding a move.

However, any deal looks incredibly unlikely with the Ligue 1 side informing Arsenal that the 19-year-old is not for sale.

They note that if a switch did happen, Berta and Co would need to come armed with a ‘significant’ offer.

What makes Zaire-Emery so special

With Jorginho having exited the Emirates on a free transfer and Thomas Partey’s Arsenal adventure potentially set to come to a conclusion, Arteta needs more midfielders.

Zubimendi certainly ticks one box. European football expert, Sid Lowe, has previously noted that the 26-year-old “is just about as good a deep-lying midfielder there is in Europe, apart from maybe Rodri”.

So, wouldn’t it be rather special if he were partnered alongside Zaire-Emery?

The PSG sensation may be young but the fact of the matter is that he’s rather special. The teenager’s agent, Jorge Mendes, has already described him as “one of the best midfielders in the world” while data analyst Ben Mattinson notes that he is an “Mbappe at Monaco level of talent”, largely thanks to his blend of skills.

Arsenal have enjoyed the talents of some of the best young players in Europe throughout the years, none more so in the current day than Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly.

Yet, Zaire-Emery reminds us of a certain Cesc Fabregas.

The Spaniard was younger than the French superstar when he moved to London, just 16, but his impact in the Premier League quickly helped him to showcase why he was one of the best young players in world football.

He eventually left Arsenal behind having scored 57 and assisted 95 in 303 outings. Named captain of the club when he was just 21, making him the youngest skipper in their history, there have been few better midfielders to grace Highbury and the Emirates over the last 20 years.

In short, he was a generational talent, an assist machine, someone who oozed class and could pass through the lines like very players on the planet.

Zaire-Emery, a player generating the same level of hype Fabregas was as a teenager, is cut from a similar cloth. He notably made his Champions League debut at the age of just 17, and since then, he’s gone from strength to strength.

Youngest UCL debutants since 2000

Player

Club

Age

1. Youssoufa Moukoko

Dortmund

16 years, 18 days

2. Lamine Yamal

Barcelona

16 years, 2 months

3. Rayan Cherki

Lyon

16 years, 3 months

4. Alen Halilovic

Zagreb

16 years, 4 months, 6 days

5. Youri Tielemans

Anderlecht

16 years, 4 months, 25 days

6. Francesco Camarda

AC Milan

16 years, 7 months, 12 days

7. Warren Zaire-Emery

PSG

16 years, 7 months, 17 days

8. Charalampos Mavrias

Panathinaikos

16 years, 7 months, 29 days

Data via Transfermarkt.

Compared to midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues, he ranks in the top 3% for pass success rate, the top 9% for passes made and the best 10% for switches, a ball that travels more than 40 yards the width of the pitch.

What those numbers rubberstamp is the comparison to Fabregas, one of the best passers of the modern era.

While PSG’s teen superstar doesn’t quite possess the same rate of assists just yet – producing just two last season – his ability as a deep-lying playmaker certainly evokes memories of Fabregas in the latter stages of his career.

As for his development as a youngster, it certainly has hallmarks of the way the Spaniard burst onto the scene all those years ago.

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Posts ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 23, 2025

Manchester United hit the ground at the end of the season, and they hit it hard, but Ruben Amorim is set on bringing Old Trafford back to the forefront of European football.

It bears testament to United’s stature in the Premier League that after finishing 15th and losing to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final, Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Matheus Cunha has signed for a £62.5m fee after rejecting interest from Champions League-qualified clubs like Arsenal and Newcastle United.

Moreover, Bryan Mbeumo wants to join Amorim’s side this summer despite interest from the aforementioned outfits, though INEOS are locked in a battle to get that one over the line, with Brentford standing firm on their £60m valuation.

But the Red Devils still need a centre-forward, and no mistake. Rasmus Hojlund struggled last season, scoring only four times in the Premier League.

If Man United are to pick themselves back up, they need a focal frontman who will provide a steady source of goals.

Man Utd's striker search

Last month, Chelsea signed Liam Delap from relegated Ipswich Town after meeting his £30m release clause. There was a wealth of intrigue in the forward’s signature, and Man United were among the interested parties, but their lack of continental football ended what might otherwise have ended positively for Amorim.

In any case, the plan is still to sell Hojlund, who is being targeted by Inter Milan in Italy, two years after leaving Serie A to join the Manchester side in a £72m deal.

With Delap off the cards, who should United turn to? Well, Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike has emerged as a target for Jason Wilcox to mull over, while Amorim would like nothing more than to reunite with Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres, though the Sweden striker is intent on joining Arsenal.

However, given that signings are needed across other areas even after the frontline has been restored, United might want to delve down a shrewder road, sign a number nine for a cut-price fee.

Well, there might just be such a forward on the market whose style of play has been drawn against Romelu Lukaku’s – worth a shot?

Man Utd make contact for Hojlund upgrade

As per Spanish reports, Manchester United are in the running for Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic as the Italian giants look to part ways with their star striker.

There’s plenty of interest in his services, although Man United and Newcastle United have been singled out for having already opened talks to make an enquiry.

Undergoing some financial adjustments, the Old Lady have never quite realised Vlahovic’s full potential after an incredible start to life in Italy with Fiorentina, who he left for Turin three-and-a-half years ago in a deal worth around £67m.

Earning around £315k per week, Sir Jim Ratcliffe will no doubt look to reduce the Serbian’s earnings, although given that Vlahovic is reportedly available for a cut-price £25m figure, this might just check out. Nottingham Forest, it must be said, are also interested.

Why Man Utd want Dusan Vlahovic

When Juventus paid Fiorentina the big bucks to sign Vlahovic, they bagged themselves one of the most exciting attacking prospects in the world.

24/25

Juventus

29 (21)

10

4

23/24

Juventus

33 (27)

16

3

22/23

Juventus

27 (22)

10

2

21/22

Juventus

15 (12)

7

1

21/22

Fiorentina

21 (21)

17

4

20/21

Fiorentina

37 (34)

21

2

Still only 25, the Serbia international hasn’t matched that La Viola opening in Italy and needs to move on, especially as he’s entering the final year of his current deal.

Once described as a “real superstar” by reporter Andrew Cesare, Vlahovic indeed needs a change of setting to restore his reputation as one of the most effective strikers in the business, but there’s still plenty to like.

As per FBref, the powerful forward ranked among the top 11% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues last year for shots taken and the top 10% for touches in the attacking box per 90, highlighting his innate predatory instinct.

It also saw Napoli’s Lukaku pulled out as one of his most statistically comparable players, and if Man United can secure their next version of the Belgian star, they might just make real progress next season.

Lukaku is one of the best-known and most prolific goalscorers of his generation, having played for a wealth of outfits – including Man United, who paid at least £75m to sign him from Everton back in 2017.

The 32-year-old, who stands at 6 foot 3, scored 42 goals and added 12 assists across 96 outings for the club, leaving after just two seasons.

However, his strength and explosiveness are elements that have seen him become a sensation in Italian football, instrumental in helping his Neapolitan team toward the Scudetto, posting 14 goals and ten assists.

It bears testament to Vlahovic’s underlying qualities that he’s still been likened to the Belgium international in spite of what has been perceived as a middling campaign.

Talent scout Jacek Kulig knows that he is “incredibly prolific” at his best, and maybe even a “future legend” in the same manner as Lukaku, who has left his mark on the game for sure.

Across two of the past three seasons, Vlahovic has only returned ten goals in Serie A. Even so, he started 22 and 21 times respectively, which bespeaks his natural instinct in front of goal.

Let us turn toward the signing of Cunha and the deal being pursued for Mbeumo. Such dynamic wide forwards will be sure to bring Vlahovic back to a higher level, charging him with a supply line while also using their goalscoring abilities to ease the nine’s striking burden.

For just £25m, this is a shrewd deal that United need to get over the line.

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1 ByEthan Lamb Jun 22, 2025

Attention is already turning to the new 2025/26 Premier League season, with promoted sides Leeds United, Burnley and Sunderland looking to buck the recent trend and avoid relegation at the first time of asking.

Liverpool, under Arne Slot, will be the defending champions, whereas Pep Guardiola is leading a Manchester City rebuild. Arsenal and Mikel Arteta will finally be hoping that this is their year, while Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur will be looking to improve on their terrible domestic campaigns last time around.

Grok, the AI tool on X, relayed by Birmingham World, has already predicted the 2025/26 Premier League table, looking at how many points each team will collect, including their goal difference.

AI 2025/26 Premier League table in pictures:

1

Liverpool

38

88

+42

2

Arsenal

38

80

+30

3

Man City

38

78

+28

4

Newcastle

38

72

+22

5

Chelsea

38

68

+18

6

Aston Villa

38

65

+12

7

Nottingham Forest

38

62

+10

8

Tottenham

38

60

+8

9

Brighton

38

58

+6

10

Fulham

38

55

+4

11

Man Utd

38

54

+2

12

Everton

38

52

0

13

West Ham

38

50

-2

14

Bournemouth

38

48

-5

15

Brentford

38

46

-8

16

Leeds Utd

38

42

-12

17

Crystal Palace

38

40

-15

18

Wolves

38

38

-20

19

Burnley

38

34

-25

20

Sunderland

38

30

-30

The next 10 Ballon d'Or winners predicted by AI

Who could win the Ballon d’Or across the next ten years?

ByMatt Dawson May 31, 2025 20 20th: Sunderland (30 points, -30 GD)

Starting the countdown at the bottom of the table, AI thinks Championship playoff winners Sunderland will finish in 20th place.

They believe Regis Le Bris’ side will accumulate 30 points, though, 18 more than Southampton, who were 20th in 24/25.

19 19th: Burnley (34 points, -25 GD)

Another newly promoted side, Burnley are believed to be the next side to go down. Scott Parker worked wonders at Turf Moor in his first campaign, conceding just 16 goals in 46 games and ending on 100 points.

However, potentially losing some of those defensive stars, including goalkeeper James Trafford, could see the Clarets struggle.

18 18th: Wolves (38 points, -20 GD)

Wolves have been flirting with the bottom three in the 23/24 and 24/25 seasons, and AI thinks 25/26 is the year they are going down.

After losing Matheus Cunha to Man Utd, the Old Gold will need to replace their top scorer and could struggle under Vitor Pereira.

17 17th: Crystal Palace (40 points, -15 GD)

Just avoiding the drop are the 24/25 FA Cup winners Crystal Palace. AI claims that the fixture congestion from Europe could see them struggle in the Premier League.

Another problem for the Eagles is player sales, with the likes of Eberechi Eze, Marc Guehi and Jean-Philippe Mateta all being linked with moves away from Selhurst Park.

16 16th: Leeds United (42 points, -12 GD)

AI feels that Leeds United, the Championship title winners, could buck the trend and avoid relegation by finishing on 42 points.

If they do, the Whites, who won the second tier title in stoppage time on the final day, will be the first side since the 2022/23 season to get promoted and remain in the Premier League.

15 15th: Brentford (46 points, -8 GD)

Despite a top 10 finish in 24/25, Brentford are next on the list, with AI believing Bryan Mbeumo’s potential departure could result in a drop-off for Thomas Frank’s side.

Mbeumo scored 20 of the Bees’ 66 goals last season but could be on his way to Man Utd, which may see them slide down the table.

14 14th: Bournemouth (48 points, -5 GD)

Another side who finished in the top 10 last season, Bournemouth, could also be in line to lose some of their star players.

Already selling Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid, Milos Kerkez and Antoine Semenyo are also in demand, with AI feeling that any sales will negatively impact the Cherries.

13 13th: West Ham (50 points, -2 GD)

One side that AI feels will slightly improve from 24/25 is West Ham, who finished 14th in the previous campaign on 43 points.

Graham Potter is preparing for his first full season in charge at the London Stadium and will be looking to make his mark in the transfer window.

12 12th: Everton (52 points, 0 GD)

Another team AI think will finish one place higher than 24/25 is Everton. David Moyes came in and steadied the ship for the Toffees and will be leading them at their new stadium in 25/26.

It is added that keeping hold of star defender Jarrad Branthwaite and adding depth to the side is key, though.

11 11th: Manchester United (54 points, +2 GD)

Things couldn’t have gone much worse for Man Utd in 24/25, so AI does have them finishing higher but still in the bottom half with 54 points.

‘Integrating new signings and addressing defensive frailties’ under Ruben Amorim in a 3-4-3 system could still see the Red Devils struggle, ending 12 points and four places better off.

There were washouts in Lauderhill on Friday and Saturday, but the forecast for Sunday isn’t as bad

Danyal Rasool15-Jun-20242:55

Flower: ‘Pakistan underperformed, they were panicking’

Match detailsIreland vs Pakistan
June 16, Lauderhill, Florida, 10:30am local timeBig picture: An end to two disappointing campaignsThere are parties you don’t want to be at, and parties the host doesn’t want you at. And then there are parties no one wants to be at.Pakistan and Ireland find themselves in that last position, in extremely wet conditions in Lauderhill, Florida. They’ve both been eliminated from the T20 World Cup, and nothing that happens during their final group game on Sunday can change that. But it must be played, weather permitting, and so they will gear up for one more fixture that will have no impact on this tournament, and almost certainly no implications on qualification for the next one in 2026.For Pakistan, it’s one more day in America before the players return to face the wrath of a nation whose anger has been bubbling up in the days following defeats to the USA and India. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is in an impregnable position, and is expected to ring the changes in the coming weeks, with Pakistan’s central contracts also up for review at the end of this month. Babar Azam’s side can do little to change the mood back home, though another defeat won’t help at all.Ireland have also endured a disappointing tournament, especially since the build-up was promising. A home win over Pakistan and victory in a T20 tri-nation series in the Netherlands. But crumpling on a horror pitch in New York against India set the tone for a dismal campaign, with a defeat against Canada the nadir. While their qualification chances were theoretically alive before Lauderhill’s weather washed out their match against the hosts, all that’s left now is the hope that they may end their party in the USA on a high note.Form guidePakistan: WLLLL (last five completed matches, most recent first)
Ireland: LLWWWIn the spotlightThis is almost certainly Imad Wasim’s final international match. Controversially brought back into the side, he has failed to provide the stardust Pakistan believed he would bring when they persuaded him to rescind his international retirement. His performances with the ball have been solid, if unspectacular, with no batting contribution of any heft, a point his innings during Pakistan’s chase against India painfully underscored. His statement before the tournament that “no one remembers semi-finalists and finalists, people remember champions” has aged like milk after Pakistan’s earliest T20 World Cup exit, but at this point, a game to remember as he signs off is the best consolation he can ask for.Lorcan Tucker scored two half centuries in three games against Pakistan last month, before following up with 40 and 55 in the tri-series against the Netherlands and Scotland. Since then, his runs have dried up as Ireland’s T20 World Cup campaign flamed out before it even got off the ground. He has managed starts in each of the group games, getting into double figures while facing 13 and 15 balls. With no pressure and little to lose, Tucker has the opportunity to rediscover the form he found against Pakistan just a few weeks ago.Pakistan have never been eliminated so early from a T20 World Cup•Associated Press

Team newsPakistan may give Abrar Ahmed and Abbas Afridi – the two players who haven’t got a game so far – a start.Pakistan: (probable) 1 Mohammad Rizwan (wk) 2 Saim Ayub 3 Babar Azam (capt) 4 Fakhar Zaman 5 Usman Khan 6 Shadab Khan 7 Imad Wasim 8 Shaheen Afridi/Abbas Afridi 9 Naseem Shah/Abrar Ahmed 10 Haris Rauf 11 Mohammad AmirIt’s been over a week since Ireland last played, so it’s trickier to predict how Ireland line-up.Ireland: (probable) 1 Andy Balbirnie 2 Paul Stirling (capt) 3 Lorcan Tucker (wk) 4 Harry Tector 5 Curtis Campher 6 George Dockrell 7 Gareth Delany 8 Mark Adair 9 Barry McCarthy 10 Josh Little 11 Craig Young/Ben WhitePitch and conditionsThe matches in Lauderhill between USA and Ireland on Friday, and India and Canada on Saturday, were both abandoned without a toss because of lots of rain and an extremely wet outfield. The forecast for Sunday is better, however, but it depends on how much rain falls overnight and the state of the outfield in the morning.Stats and trivia Pakistan have never before been eliminated from a T20 World Cup after just three games Ireland have lost four successive completed T20 World Cup games. They have only had one worse run, when they lost six in a row across the 2009, 2010 and 2012 World Cups.

Third fifty of this campaign sees her side home by six wickets at Lord’s

ECB Reporters Network06-Jun-2024South East Stars 118 for 4 (Scholfield 50*, Grewcock 2-18) beat Sunrisers 116 for 8 (Miller 39*, Jones 2-13, Stonehouse 2-17) by six wicketsPaige Scholfield continued her rich vein of form as South East Stars cantered to a six-wicket win over hosts Sunrisers at Lord’s to remain unbeaten in this season’s Charlotte Edwards Cup.The South African-born allrounder – currently only able to bat because of an ongoing niggle – and who had made two half-centuries already in the campaign, made her third in finishing 50 not out, reaching the landmark with the winning hit, her eighth four.In truth, the chase for 117 was not an arduous one, Sunrisers having earlier been restricted to 116 for 8, Emma Jones with 2 for 13 and Alexa Stonehouse with 2 for 17 the principal wicket takers, while teenage starlet Tilly Corteen-Coleman got a wicket with her first ball of the game for the second time in the tournament. Flo Miller produced the only resistance with 39 not out from 45 balls.Sunrisers were soon in trouble. Shortly after steering the first boundary of the innings through third, skipper Grace Scrivens slashed one from Stonehouse straight to point.Corteen-Coleman bowled Alice Macleod and Sunrisers’ leading scorer in the tournament Jo Gardner then spooned Stonehouse to Sophia Dunkley at cover to depart for only 1.Mady Villiers sparkled briefly with two fours and a five from an overthrow in her 14, but when she chipped Jones to Phoebe Franklin at midwicket the hosts were in disarray at 27 for 4.That they mustered any sort of score was largely down to Miller, who played the only of innings of substance, sending a full toss from Franklin to the fence before later pulling a short one from Jones down to the Tavern boundary.Others came and went. Jodi Grewcock contributing to her own downfall with a sloppy piece of running which saw her run out by Corteen-Coleman’s direct hit, while Jones picked up a second wicket with a caught-and-bowled to see the back of Eva Gray.Dunkley (24) was quickly into stride, caressing one through the covers in the opening over of the Stars’ reply before dancing down the pitch to strike the spin of Villiers back over the top.Skipper Smith, scratchy at first, caught the mood, twice depositing short balls from Gray to the midwicket boundary. However, both departed in the same over from Grewcock, Dunkley stumped by Amara Carr as she again ventured down the wicket, while Smith nicked one through to the keeper.Jones, promoted to four, should have departed in the next over, only for two fielders to collide meaning a simple catch at mid-on was grassed. The Cambridge University student of veterinary surgery failed to profit from the life, holing out in the deep soon afterwards.Stars, though, were ahead of the rate and simply needed a steady hand on the tiller and not for the first time in the campaign that proved to be Schofield, who swept and pulled with authority in another sparkling knock. And while Phoebe Franklin departed before the end, Stars sauntered home.

Enzo Maresca will have plenty of work to do this summer if he wants to strengthen his Chelsea squad for the challenges ahead.

The Blues are set to take part in the inaugural Club World Cup in America this month.

While the prize money on offer is ridiculous – the winner is set to receive up to $125m – Maresca will be keen on using the tournament as extended preparation for pre-season.

Chelsea’s Club World Cup fixtures
Date	Opponent	Venue
Monday, June 16	Los Angeles	Mercedes-Benz stadium
Friday, June 20	Flamengo	Lincoln Financial Field
Tuesday, June 24	Esperance	Lincoln Financial Field

Liam Delap has already been signed by the Stamford Bridge outfit ahead of the competition, but unless a deal can be done swiftly, this will be all of their business before they fly across the pond.

Of course, this won’t stop the manager from working hard behind the scenes to try and plan with regard to future signings.

Indeed, several players have been linked recently. Mike Maignan, the French number one and AC Milan goalkeeper, could be tempted to make the move from Italy to England in the coming weeks.

Jamie Gittens is another potential addition to the squad that Maresca is working hard to get done.

The club have reportedly had a bid rejected for the winger, with Borussia Dortmund looking at a fee of around £42m for the Englishman.

This won’t be wrapped up before the Club World Cup, but could the Blues make the move a priority?

Why Chelsea want to sign Jamie Gittens

It is no secret that the Stamford Bridge outfit loves to hoover up the best young talents. The squad is full of players who aren’t quite at their peak, but have incredible potential.

Enzo Fernández, Cole Palmer, Tyrique George, Marc Guiu and Moises Caicedo immediately spring to mind.

There could be a major overhaul of the first-team squad this summer, as several players look set to leave London. As a result, there could be an opening for the exciting Gittens.

Since making his debut for Dortmund four seasons ago, the English forward has gone from strength to strength, echoing the trajectory of both Jadon Sancho and Jude Bellingham at the German club.

He has made over 100 appearances for the Bundesliga side, registering a total of 31 goal contributions – 17 goals and 14 assists – an impressive tally at such a tender age.

Last season was a mixed one for the 20-year-old, however. He did continue his development during the first half of 2024/25, but once Niko Kovac took over as manager, his progress stalled.

The winger created six big chances and succeeded with 2.4 dribbles per game – a success rate of 52% – which proved he loved causing chaos for opposition defenders.

Under Kovac, Gittens started just nine of his 16 matches, scoring a solitary goal for the club, a stark contrast to the 11 goals he’d netted earlier in the campaign. It is obvious that the Croatian manager doesn’t see a future for the talented youngster in his current system.

If the Blues are able to secure the services of Gittens for a fee that won’t break the bank, they could be onto a winner, no doubt about that.

He is young, has a high ceiling and has sparked in a top-five European League while making appearances in the Champions League.

Chelsea have a player joining in the next few weeks that may be an even bigger talent than Gittens, however. Step forward, Estevao.

Chelsea's future Ballon d'Or winner

In May 2024, the Blues secured a deal to bring Brazilian sensation Estevao to Stamford Bridge, paying a fee in the region of £29m for the winger.

Over the years, players such as Neymar, Vinícius Jr, Rodrygo and Kaka have moved from Brazil to Europe in a bid to make their mark on the continent.

Estevao is no different, and Chelsea certainly looked like they had struck gold in signing the then-17-year-old.

The teenager has received some wonderful praise during the embryonic stages of his career thus far. Analyst Ben Mattinson believes he is a “future Ballon d’Or winner” while already going as far as to say that he is a “superstar” thanks to his early displays for Brazilian side Palmeiras.

Former prodigy Neymar has even gone as far as to say the youngster is a “genius” and this sort of praise suggests Chelsea have signed someone who will rake them in a giant profit in a few years.

Since making his club debut in 2023, the 18-year-old has already racked up 78 senior appearances for Palmeiras, scoring 26 goals and grabbing 15 assists in the process.

His performances in the 2025 Copa Libertadores have been a joy to watch indeed. He has recorded five goal involvements across his five games in the competition thus far.

When compared to his peers in South America’s most prestigious club competition, the teenager ranks in the top 1% for touches in the attacking penalty area (7.82) and non-penalty goals (0.95) per 90.

GOAL.com NXGN List for 2025
1. Lamine Yamal
2. Estevao
3. Pau Cubarsi
4. Warren Zaire-Emery
5. Endrick
6. Ethan Nwaneri
7. Claudio Echeverri
8. Myles Lewis-Skelly
9. Jorrel Hato
10. Francesco Camarda

Furthermore, he also ranks in the top 2% for shots on target (2.13) and for carries into the penalty area (3.32) per 90 for Palmeiras.

His performances have led to the youngster already winning five caps for Brazil, making his debut against Ecuador last September, aged just 17.

If he continues this upwards trajectory, there is no doubt Estevao will be a regular fixture for his nation under the management of Carlo Ancelotti.

The World Cup is a year away and by enjoying a successful debut season at Chelsea, he could well be the star of the show in America next summer.

His final act as a Palmeiras player will be to take them as far as possible at the Club World Cup this month.

They are in a group that includes Inter Miami, Porto and Al Ahly, with a knockout round space is certainly attainable if the club perform at their best.

For Maresca, he will be able to count on the Brazilian sensation once the tournament ends and the 2025/26 campaign begins.

While Gittens would be an exciting signing, no doubt. Do Chelsea need him? If Estevao can hit the ground running, £29m could turn out to be a shrewd piece of business for all involved.

Better than Delap: Chelsea step up move for £85m "monster in the making"

Chelsea are looking to improve their attacking options further

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By
Ross Kilvington

Jun 9, 2025