MatériaMais Notícias

A Conmebol projeta mudanças para as decisões da Copa Libertadores e da Copa Sul-Americana. Em carta enviada à Fifa divulgada nesta quinta-feira (30), a entidade manifestou seu desejo de que o intervalo entre as etapas das duas decisões tenha um aumento de 15 para 25 minutos. O intuito é “oferecer um espetáculo artístico de alta qualidade” neste período, além de melhorar o período de descanso das equipes envolvidas. As partidas valeriam apenas para a final da Copa Sul-Americana, no dia 20 de novembro, e a da Copa Libertadores, no dia 27.

RelacionadasFlamengoDiário ‘Olé’ explica por que título do Flamengo diante do Palmeiras seria ‘conveniente ao Boca Juniors’Flamengo30/09/2021FlamengoDavid Luiz comemora vaga do Flamengo na final e elogia Gustavo Henrique: ‘Entrou muito bem’Flamengo30/09/2021PalmeirasResponsável pelas regras do futebol, IFAB diz que gol do Palmeiras contra o Atlético-MG não deveria ser anuladoPalmeiras30/09/2021

O Flamengo encarará o Palmeiras na decisão da Libertadores, no dia 27. Já o RB Bragantino espera o vencedor de Peñarol e Athletico-PR para saber quem enfrentará no dia 20. Ambos os confrontos acontecerão no Estádio Centenário.

>>> E MAIS: Lembre a campanha invicta do Flamengo até a final da Libertadores!

A Conmebol destacou em nota que a decisão dos torneios ficaria mais atrativa:

>>>> A batalha final! Lembre os recentes duelos entre Palmeiras e Flamengo

“Neste documento, foi levantada a possibilidade de prolongar o intervalo para 25 minutos entre os dois tempos dos jogos finais do campeonato. Um intervalo ligeiramente mais longo permitiria proporcionar um espetáculo artístico de alta qualidade para os torcedores no estádio e para os telespectadores, tal como ocorre em outros esportes, com excelente receptividade. Isto tornaria mais atrativa a definição das competições”.

>>> Quem é mais valioso? Veja a disputa entre Flamengo e Palmeiras, posição por posição!

Além disto, a entidade evidenciou outros aspectos nos quais a Copa Sul-Americana e a Libertadores podem melhorar.

“Com esta modificação, os atletas teriam uma melhor recuperação física e os
treinadores teriam a oportunidade de dar instruções mais precisas, aumentando assim o nível de competitividade bem como a qualidade do jogo.

>>> Quais clubes brasileiros mais disputaram títulos continentais? Veja!

A entidade ainda falou sobre a situação extenuante pela qual passam os atletas.

“Cabe lembrar que estes jogos frequentemente chegam aos 120 minutos ou aos pênaltis, sendo que os jogadores ficam sujeitos a uma enorme exigência física e extrema tensão psicológica e emocional. É importante salientar, caro Presidente, que esta mudança se aplicaria exclusivamente para os jogos finais de campeonato”.

It has been pleasing to see West Ham United show proactivity in the transfer market this summer, instead of biding time and being forced into reactive moves after one disappointing development or another.

Technical director Tim Steidten clearly held some positive talks at the maiden stage with Julen Lopetegui, who has replaced David Moyes, for teenage winger Luis Guilherme has been signed for £25.5m and centre-back Max Kilman has been welcomed to the rearguard for £40m.

More is yet to come. The fact remains that signing a striker is the east London outfit's most pressing concern, and if reports are to be believed, the transfer cannon has been levelled in that direction.

West Ham bid for new striker

West Ham have submitted a bid to sign FC Metz striker Georges Mikautadze, who was one of the standout performers for Georgia during their impressive Euro 2024 campaign.

It was Football Insider with the reveal, though they do stress that interest is thick and it would take an offer of €25m (roughly £21m) to convince the Ligue 1 outfit to sell.

With a throng of suitors eyeing up the dynamic striker, Steidten better kick on with negotiations to ensure that Mikautadze moves to the London Stadium.

The Georgian isn't the only striker the Irons could bring to the capital this summer, however, with Aston Villa's Jhon Duran a player said to be on their radar. Fabrizio Romano has even suggested that personal terms have been agreed with the player.

What Mikautadze would bring to West Ham

Rumour has it that Danny Ings is heading back to Southampton, with the respective Premier League sides currently haggling over a £6m figure. The 31-year-old hasn't exactly been brilliant for the Hammers, scoring four goals from 52 appearances.

Moreover, Divin Mubama has left the club after his contract expired and Michail Antonio is now 34, starting just 21 Premier League matches last year as he battled against injuries.

Mikautadze, 23, would be a brilliant addition to shape the frontline with fresh clay, ranking among the top 11% of centre-forwards across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for progressive carries and the top 4% for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref.

The Georgian ace was in prolific showing in the French top flight last year, scoring 13 goals and supplying four assists across just 20 appearances, averaging 1.1 key passes, 2.1 dribbles and 4.3 successful duels per game to boot, as per Sofascore.

If there have been concerns in the past concerning how the nimble star's skills would translate to life on the major stage, he has dispelled such notions with his talismanic efforts in Germany over the past month, hailed by talent scout Jacek Kulig as the "living legend" of his nation.

Georgia, a nation with less than half the population of London, earned the loftiest of laurels during their historic run to the round of 16, defeating Portugal to rise from the group stage for the first time in their history. They achieved this illustrious feat not through regimented pragmaticism, but through the breezy, free-flowing football of an awe-inspiring side.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia deservedly takes the plaudits as Georgia's prized possession, but Mikautadze proved that he is a figure of similar importance, notching three goals and an assist across four outings.

It might not be the easiest of deals to engineer, with Monaco pressing to complete a deal and a host of further suitors lingering, but West Ham will hope that the allure of the Premier League and the promise of a starring role as the Irons spearhead could tempt the 5 foot 9 forward to make the move to London.

Matches played

4

Matches started

4

Goals

3

Assists

1

Pass completion

83%

Shots per game

1.5

Key passes per game

1.3

Dribbles per game

1.8

Duels won per game

4.5

Given Mikautadze's athletic ability, he must be prioritised as the top target to fight for a place as United's focal frontman, and Lopetegui must discard interest in Sevilla's Youssef En-Nesyri to get the move over the line.

How Mikautadze compares to En-Nesyri

As per Spanish reports in June, West Ham have been considering a swoop for their long-term target, who has been transfer-listed for an affordable €20m (£17m) by the Spanish club with his contract set to expire in one year.

The 27-year-old has been described as a "pure goalscorer" by Kulig and indeed would arrive off the back of a sharp scoring season, posting 20 goals across 41 fixtures in all competitions.

He's an imposing target man at 6 foot 3 but not quite the most mobile of players, and as the chart below will show, the Morocco international is one of the lowest-ranking forwards regarding his passing metrics.

Lopetegui will strive to implement more of a passing focus at West Ham than that of his predecessor, with a balanced but flexible structure opening up fluid passing play.

Mikautadze would be the perfect player to add to the mix in this regard, not least because of his crisp and creative emphasis. The Georgia star, further to the point, is progressive and would be able to effectively influence attacking sequences through his driven, penetrative approach into the final third.

Furthermore, the electrifying support of stars such as Mohammed Kudus, Jarrod Bowen and the earlier-mentioned Guilherme makes for the perfect, balanced frontline that would see Mikautadze thrive.

While West Ham have already been active in the transfer market this summer, there's no hiding from the fact that signing a new centre-forward is the priority.

Mikautadze could be the poster boy for years to come, with so much yet to give but so much already showcased. Steidten and Co need to get this one completed with dispatch.

West Ham enquire about £32m striker who'd make Kudus unplayable

East London could finally land a top-class centre-forward by sealing this signing.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 5, 2024

They were found to be party to attempted match-fixing during the 2019 T20 World Cup qualifier

ESPNcricinfo staff26-Jan-2021

Mohammad Naveed is a former UAE captain•IDI via Getty Images

The ICC has found UAE players Mohammad Naveed and Shaiman Anwar guilty of offences relating to attempted match-fixing during the 2019 T20 World Cup qualifying tournament. The verdict follows a hearing by an independent anti-corruption tribunal, with the ICC saying in a statement that “the pair remain suspended and sanctions will follow in due course”.The two are among UAE’s most experienced international cricketers. Anwar, now 41, is their highest run-getter across the ODI and T20I formats, and 33-year-old Naveed their most prolific wicket-taker and a former captain.Related

'Corruptors like weak governance and chaos because it allows them in'

UAE's Naveed, Shaiman, Qadeer suspended for corruption

'I feel guilty' – Naveed accepts he failed to report corrupt approach

UAE looking into wicketkeeper Ghulam Shabber's disappearance

Naveed and Anwar were charged under the ICC anti-corruption code in October 2019, and suspended days before the start of the qualifiers in the UAE. Naveed, who was UAE’s captain at the time, was stood down from the post.The two have both been found guilty of the following breaches of the anti-corruption code: Article 2.1.1 – for being party to an agreement or effort to fix or contrive or otherwise influence improperly the result, progress, conduct or other aspect(s) of a match or matches at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019. Article 2.4.4 – failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2019.Naveed, in addition, was also found guilty of breaching the same two codes during the T10 League in 2019, which was also held in the UAE.ESPNcricinfo understands the two players had allegedly stood to make around US$ 272,000 if they had been successful in impacting the outcome of matches during the qualifiers.In October 2019, Naveed accepted that he had failed to report a suspicious approach during the T10 tournament, but claimed he had ended the conversation when he realised the person he was meeting was a “fixer”.

Ex-Netherlands star Rafael van der Vaart claimed that Viktor Gyokeres is a "better version of Erling Haaland" ahead of Sporting's clash with Man City.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

• Gyokeres hailed as 'real footballer'
• Told he is better than Haaland
• Sporting CP face Man City on Tuesday

Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  The Sporting CP sensation has displayed terrific form since the start of the 2024-25 campaign, scoring 16 goals in 10 matches across all competitions. He has attracted interest from Premier League giants like Arsenal, Liverpool, and, of course, Manchester United, where his current manager Ruben Amorim is heading to replace Erik ten Hag later this month.

Advertisement

• Getty
  

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Gyokeres is fresh from scoring a hat-trick against Estrela in a Liga Portugal clash. He will now face reigning English champions Manchester City in the Champions League on Tuesday. Ahead of the exciting encounter in Europe, Dutch legends Van der Vaart and Van Basten have spoken highly of the Swedish forward, with the former even claiming that he is a 'better version' of City's goal machine Erling Haaland.

• WHAT RAFAEL VAN DER VAART SAID

  Speaking to , the former Tottenham star said: "It sounds a bit crazy, but I think he’s a bit of a better version of Haaland. Haaland is of course incredible, but Gyökeres has a bit more, or something."

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

• WHAT MARCO VAN BASTEN SAID

  AC Milan and Ajax icon Van Basten added: "He’s a real footballer, I think. A real footballing striker. Strong, scores easily and is calm in front of goal. He is also able to pass the keeper, I think he’s a really good striker. I can enjoy him."

It's been an awfully quiet transfer window from Arsenal so far this summer, but with just over a month remaining, it could be about to change.

For example, Ajax's highly rated young goalkeeper Tommy Setford joined over the weekend, Riccardo Calafiori's move from Bologna looks to be edging ever closer, and a move for Real Sociedad's Mikel Merino is still a distinct possibility.

However, based on recent reports, Edu Gaspar and Co might have found the perfect alternative to the Spaniard in a player who has shades of former Gunners great Patrick Vieira about him.

Arsenal transfer news

According to a recent report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are one of several sides keen on landing French international Adrien Rabiot this summer.

Alongside the Gunners, the report revealed that the player's representatives are in talks with Tottenham Hotspur, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Manchester United, with the latter currently leading the way.

The good news for the North Londoners is that with the 29-year-old's Juventus contract expiring last month, they won't need to pay a transfer fee to secure his services. The bad news is that he's after an annual wage between €10m and €15m, which converts to between £8m and £13m.

It could be challenging to get ahead of United, but given Rabiot's ability and experience, Arsenal should do what they can to bring him to N5 this summer, as he could be the perfect alternative to Merino, and his similarities to Vieira are certainly a nice bonus.

How Rabiot compares to Merino and Vieira

Now, before we compare Rabiot to Merino, let's examine how he mirrors former Arsenal great Vieira, who left the club with three league titles, four FA Cups, and 405 appearances to his name.

So, the first and most obvious similarity is that, like the former Gunners star, the 29-year-old is a prominent French international who operates best at the heart of midfield, where he can demonstrate his incredible ability on and off the ball.

For example, according to FBref, which compares players in similar positions across Europe's top five leagues, the Saint-Maurice-born star sits in the top 11% of midfielders for aerial duels won and the top 14% for progressive carries per 90.

This demonstrates that, like the World Cup winner, the "monster" midfielder, as football writer Robin Bairner dubbed him, uses his impressive physicality to win the ball off opponents before driving through the middle of the park to help at the sharp end of the pitch.

Speaking of their physicality, while the former Paris Saint-Germain ace isn't quite as tall as the 6 foot 4 retired superstar, he's still an imposing midfielder thanks to his 6 foot 2 frame, which would undoubtedly come in handy in the Premier League.

So, with his similarities to the Invincibles legend clear to see, how does the "extraordinary" dynamo, as described by French icon David Trezeguet, compare to Merino?

Well, when we look at their underlying numbers, it becomes clear that both midfielders are fantastic players and would bring a great deal to Mikel Arteta's side, but unsurprisingly, the Frenchman just edges things.

Non-Penalty Expected Goals + Assists

0.25

0.19

Progressive Carries

2.44

0.94

Progressive Passes

4.07

5.91

Shots

1.29

1.09

Shots on Target

0.54

0.40

Passing Accuracy

82.2%

76.2%

Key Passes

0.88

0.72

Carries into the Penalty Area

0.34

0.11

Shot-Creating Actions

2.17

2.36

Tackles

1.97

2.79

Blocks

0.88

1.30

Interceptions

0.85

0.58

Errors Leading to a Shot

0.00

0.11

Successful Take-Ons

0.95

0.87

Miscontrols

1.76

2.21

Dispossessed

0.64

1.52

Ball Recoveries

5.08

7.14

For example, he comes out ahead in more relevant metrics, including non-penalty expected goals plus assists, progressive carries, shots and shots on target, carries into the penalty area, key passes and passing accuracy, interceptions and successful take-ons, all per 90.

Moreover, he is dispossessed less often, makes fewer errors leading to a shot, and miscontrols the ball less, all per 90.

Arsenal hit gold on sensational star who's worth way more than Pedro Neto

The immense talent could become a legend at the club.

3 ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 21, 2024

Ultimately, even with a higher-than-average salary, signing Rabiot seems like a great idea, as he offers more than Merino, and the comparisons to Vieira also work in his favour.

Last season, Liverpool fell apart at the final stretch. A slump in form after enduring the bite of the winter months saw conquests for the FA Cup and Europa League severed by eventual winners Manchester United and Atalanta, with Premier League title aspirations torn to tatters after several inexplicable losses.

Jurgen Klopp's fairytale ending wasn't to be, even if the Carabao Cup was clinched against the odds in February. The German's decision to leave Liverpool heightened expectations, of that there is no doubt, but supporters are eager to see the squad reinforced after demonstrating exceptional qualities last season, if falling a bit short.

Perhaps it's because Liverpool fell slightly short that there is a hunger for new signings. Defensively, the Reds lacked steel at points; in midfield, a first-class No. 6 could have been the difference-maker; up front, for all the Anfield side's creativity and attacking verve, a lack of incisiveness formed the crux of the late-season stutter.

Arne Slot is working toward rebuilding the outfit as a force to be reckoned with, and while FSG's silence in the transfer market this summer has been… disappointing, the squad is replete with quality and could raise its level with fresh life at the helm.

There are certainly several players who will be expected to lift themselves up a notch, with Dominik Szoboszlai's second season on Merseyside likely to be one of the most interesting plot points of the early months.

Why Liverpool signed Dominik Szoboszlai

Liverpool signed Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig in July 2023 after meeting his £60m release clause. The Hungary international had been hailed as a "generational talent" by journalist Marcel Moeller for his performances in Germany, with optimal athletic performance wrapped around technical distinction and high-quality endurance levels.

He basically embodied the traits that Klopp called for in a midfielder, though with the German manager fashioning him into a deeper-lying, more industrious midfield role than he was accustomed to at Leipzig, Szoboszlai flattered to deceive toward the end of the term.

Still, Liverpool's wretched 2022/23 season demanded a midfield rebuild, and so Klopp made sweeping changes to the engine room, replacing a beleaguered lot with Alexis Mac Allister, Szoboszlai and the like.

And while he left plenty to be desired last season, the 23-year-old hardly flopped. As per FBref, he ranked among the top 17% of central midfielders in the Premier League last year for passes attempted and progressive passes, the top 9% for progressive carries and the top 4% for shot-creating actions per 90.

Dominik Szoboszlai: League Stat Comparison

Statistics

22/23 (RBL)

23/24 (LFC)

Matches played

31

33

Goals

6

3

Assists

8

2

Pass completion

83%

87%

Big chances created

14

7

Shots per game

1.9

1.8

Key passes per game

2.3

1.7

Dribbles per game

1.7

0.7

Ball recoveries per game

5.6

7.3

Tackles per game

1.5

1.0

Duels won per game

4.6

2.9

Stats via Sofascore

Furthermore, the 6 foot 1 star averaged 7.3 ball recoveries per game (Sofascore), highlighting his noteworthy energy levels. That said, it's hard to argue against his regression in performance when comparing his final year in Germany to his first on Merseyside.

He has one of the meatiest strikes in the business, adding a wonderful dimension to his team. This was evidenced on several occasions, and while he won't be delighted with his tally of seven goals and four assists from 45 appearances (30 starts) throughout his debut campaign, he has rooted his talent deep in Anfield's soil and will be set on reaching the next level under Slot's tutelage.

More is required this season though. Benched for five of the final six Premier League matches under Klopp, Liverpool's record midfield signing fell by the wayside at the end, losing his initial look as a domineering new midfield talisman and fizzling out after injuries and second-half-of-season struggles got the better of him.

It's nothing to worry about too greatly. The talent is permanent and Szoboszlai's off-the-ball numbers – i.e. his ball recoveries – speak of his tenacity and resolve, but something slipped nonetheless.

With the club's new head coach often employing a 4-2-3-1 formation at Feyenoord, the talented midfielder could see his technical qualities maximised. It could almost feel like a new signing.

Dominik Szoboszlai's market value in 2024

Despite a maiden campaign in England that ebbed and flowed, Szoboszlai is still regarded as one of the most lucrative members of Slot's Liverpool squad.

According to CIES Football Observatory's player valuation model, Szoboszlai's market price stands at an unabashed £90m, which actually marks a 50% increase after just one year. Imagine what might happen when he enters the ascendancy next year.

That's a staggering figure for one so young, so soon into their professional career. To put it in perspective, CIES' valuation of the Hungarian towers is some £40m above what Manchester United are paying LOSC Lille for Leny Yoro.

Yoro, another to be considered a 'generational talent' – as relayed by The Telegraph – was courted by Liverpool this summer before FSG withdrew from consideration after resigning themselves to the 18-year-old defender's wish to join Real Madrid.

That didn't happen, and now the prodigious French starlet is heading to Old Trafford to sign a deal in excess of £50m. Sure, Szoboszlai has five years on the young gun but it's a testament to his lofty ability that he is valued so much higher.

Perhaps it's also a measure of how highly regarded the £120k-per-week star was when FSG sanctioned the £60m outlay one year ago – similar to that of the Red Devils' prospective new signing.

There's an optimistic sense that Liverpool that Szoboszlai has not tapped into his potential by half yet. Based on the evidence so far, that only means that he's headed straight for the very top of the European game.

Related He's a cheat code: Liverpool could sign dream Trent replacement for £34m

The Reds star has been linked with a move away from the club this summer.

Posts ByDan Emery Jul 18, 2024

Los Blancos' season is already going down the pan following humiliations in La Liga and the Champions League, and the manager is usually the fall guy

When you're Real Madrid, you only have one of two moods: 'simply the best', or 'total crisis'. After taking their place as 15-time champions of Europe in June, they have drastically drifted into the flames of calamity.

The Spanish giants are already nine points off the pace set by early leaders Barcelona in La Liga – a 4-0 loss at home to their Clasico rivals didn't exactly do them the world of good – and currently sit in the bottom half of the Champions League's new table, behind the likes of Brest, Celtic and Dinamo Zagreb, after losing 3-1 at home to AC Milan on Tuesday.

Nearly every starter at Santiago Bernabeu has faced the brunt of the local media, been scapegoated and dug out for either a lack of quality or commitment to the cause. Now, manager Carlo Ancelotti is starting to feel the heat.

The Italian has won two Champions Leagues since his return to Madrid in 2021 and is heading for GOAT conversations for the next few generations, yet even he is not without fault. There are legitimate questions to put at Ancelotti's door.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱Getty Images SportShort shelf life

Outside of an eight-year spell in charge of Milan in the 2000s, Ancelotti has largely operated as a short-term manager, whether by design or accident. In seven of his 11 managerial roles, he lasted just two years, and has tended to bounce around from one super-club to the next.

Reaching a fourth season in charge of this Madrid side makes this Ancelotti's longest reign in charge of any club other than the Rossoneri. Even after winning the 2013-14 Champions League in his first stint with Los Blancos, he was cast aside a year later when they only narrowly failed to meet expectation. There was no good grace afforded, no sentiment to fall back on.

History tells us that Ancelotti likely won't have much left in the tank to activate his proverbial second wind, while Madrid are typically not a club who are patient with their managers. The dressing room wouldn't turn on him per se, but it's a results business for Madrid more than any other club and they will act swiftly if things don't pick back up again.

AdvertisementGetty Images Sport'Badly organised'

Ancelotti, at least, is not blind to Madrid's plight. He isn't rocking up to press conferences filled with misplaced bravado and trying to convince the masses that everything is hunky dory, that his side have actually been really, really, unlucky like the last days of Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.

Speaking after their most recent loss to Milan, Ancelotti said: "I don't think it's unfair that they question me, I think it's normal. When the team doesn't perform, the coach has the responsibility. We don't defend well. We're badly organised. Yes, we should be worried… This is not an individual problem."

Performances have been ropey all season long, and if anything, Madrid are a tad fortunate to not be in an even worse position. Late goals and inexplicable collapses from opponents (looking at , Borussia Dortmund) have papered over the cracks of a team that has lost its way and diminishing its own sparkle.

If Ancelotti isn't even bringing the vibes to the table, then he will quickly grow redundant in this new age of the club. It's not only the results that need improving upon.

Getty Images SportDoomed to fail?

You know those old Madrid teams featuring the likes of Zinedine Zidane, Luis Figo, Ronaldo, David Beckham, Roberto Carlos, Michael Owen, Raul and so many more? They didn't win as many trophies as you'd believe.

After success in the 2001-02 Champions League, Los Blancos won only a single domestic or European title over the next five years. Champions League club were routinely dumped out in the last 16 and fell way behind Barcelona on home soil.

Florentino Perez, for as much as he is a sporting and marketing genius today, struggled to build a balanced enough team to suit his superstars. They would still combine for moments of brilliance and pictures of these legends together are fawned over to this day, but they were not the best Madrid teams of this century. Sounds all too familiar a tale, right?

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

Getty Images SportUnderperforming superstars

When so many key players are failing to hit their usual levels, the blame tends to be on the manager. Ancelotti's extra problem is that nothing – from tactics to personnel to injuries – seems to be working in his favour.

Kylian Mbappe has been the centre of attention since his free summer transfer from Paris Saint-Germain. A return of eight goals and two assists in 15 matches across all competitions isn't awful, though if he has ambitions of winning the Ballon d'Or and continuing Madrid's rich history of winning the biggest honours, then that's not enough. That's before you even begin to question his negative impact on the team's chemistry and his unsuitability as a lone striker.

Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham, fresh from scoring 23 in his first season at the Bernabeu, is without a goal through 12 games this term. But again, he's an example of an out-of-form player who's struggling regardless of what the stats are saying. Goals are drying up across the team even beyond the main attractions.

The retirement of Toni Kroos has also proven difficult for Madrid to navigate. It's abundantly obvious that Aurelien Tchouameni is not ready to control a midfield alone, and Ancelotti overlooking his France team-mate Eduardo Camavinga is a story gathering momentum in the European press.

As Daniel Farke looks to make up for last season's heartbreak by securing a place in the Premier League in the coming campaign, Leeds United have reportedly tabled their first bid to sign a new reinforcement from the Bundesliga.

Leeds transfer news

The Whites and the 49ers Enterprises have endured a mixed summer transfer window. Whilst they'll still be recovering from losing academy graduate Archie Gray to Tottenham Hotspur, they have at least kept hold of the likes of Crysencio Summerville and Wilfred Gnonto for now, alongside welcoming Jayden Bogle, Joe Rodon, Alex Cairns and Joe Rothwell.

Of course, there's still plenty of time for things to change, given Gnonto's recent links to Everton, but as it stands, those at Elland Road can focus on the positives.

The latest to arrive, Bogle told Leeds' official website: "It’s amazing [to sign for Leeds]. It’s a great feeling, a massive club and a massive opportunity, I can’t wait to get going. I knew there was interest and since I heard it, this is where I wanted to be. As I said, it’s a massive club and opportunity, a fantastic team, great staff, so I am really excited."

Leeds could unearth new star duo by landing Szmodics and "ridiculous" star

The Whites have been linked with an interest in both players, who starred in the Championship last season.

ByDan Emery Jul 25, 2024

The former Sheffield United right-back may not be the last to come through the door at Elland Road this summer. According to Bild via Sport Witness, Leeds have tabled a £3.4m bid to sign Dejan Ljubicic, but have already seen their first offer rejected by FC Koln director Christian Keller.

That rejection has not stopped them in their pursuit of the central midfielder, however, and the Whites are expected to line up a second bid to sign Ljubicic, who does not want to sign a new contract at Koln. Given that his current deal expires next summer, Leeds could be in a strong position to land a deal this summer.

"Special" Ljubicic can replace Kamara

Following Glen Kamara's departure to Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais, Leeds can swoop in and land a simple replacement in the form of Ljubicic this summer.

The Austrian, even after suffering Bundesliga relegation alongside his Koln teammates last season, earned the praise of new manager Gerhard Struber, who told the German club's official website: "Dejan is a player who has performed great for FC in recent years and can help us very, very well on the way back to the Bundesliga. Great. Simply great. The overall package is special. I'm very happy for him."

Offering a different type of midfield option to the more defensive Kamara, Ljubicic could yet offer the Whites a surprise attacking boost at the heart of midfield if he completes a move before deadline day at the end of August.

Progressive Carries

1.80

1.57

Key Passes

1.23

1.30

Ball Recoveries

4.91

5.10

Shots

1.67

0.17

A midfielder who loves to shoot compared to the more reserved and safer Kamara, Leeds may welcome a player who provides something different in their pursuit of promotion this season.

The Brisbane Heat have been locked out of travelling to Victoria from Queensland this week due to the Victorian government’s hard border on travellers from Covid hotspots, something which has forced Cricket Australia to relocate seven upcoming BBL matches from Sydney and Melbourne as it tries to keep the season alive.CA has already shifted three fixtures from Sydney to Canberra, including the upcoming Sydney derby between the Sixers and the Thunder.

Fixtures relocated

• January 14: Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Renegades, Manuka Oval, 7:15pm AEDT (originally at Docklands)

• January 21: Adelaide Strikers vs Brisbane Heat, Adelaide Oval, 6:45pm ACDT (originally at Melbourne Cricket Ground)

• January 22: Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder, Adelaide Oval (originally at Sydney Cricket Ground)

• January 24: Sydney Thunder vs Adelaide Strikers, Adelaide Oval (originally at Sydney Showgrounds)

• January 24: Sydney Sixers vs Hobart Hurricanes, Melbourne Cricket Ground (originally at Sydney Cricket Ground)

• January 25: Adelaide Strikers vs Sydney Thunder, Adelaide Oval (originally at Sydney Showgrounds)

• January 26: Brisbane Heat vs Perth Scorchers, venue TBC (originally at Sydney Cricket Ground)

But the Heat were scheduled to head to Melbourne to face the Renegades on Thursday at Docklands. But Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, went into a three-day lockdown after a rare community Covid-19 case was found on January 7. The Victorian government has imposed border restrictions on travellers coming to Victoria from Queensland and New South Wales which has caused chaos with CA’s scheduling after they were unable to get exemptions for the teams who were in Queensland from January 2 onwards.The Heat-Renegades fixture on Thursday has been moved to Manuka Oval in Canberra, in the ACT, and won’t be played in front of a crowd, while the Heat’s match with the Adelaide Strikers, that was scheduled for the MCG on January 21, has been instead shifted to Adelaide.Alistair Dobson, the head of the BBL, said the border restrictions from the Victorian government forced CA’s hand.”We have elected to move this Thursday’s Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Renegades match from Marvel Stadium (Docklands) to Manuka Oval given the Victorian Government’s current restrictions on travel from Brisbane and to create certainty that this fixture can be delivered,” Dobson said. “Unfortunately, given the operational difficulties in providing a safe and secure environment for fans to attend at such short notice – including the ACT Government’s requirement that all tickets go off sale 24 hours prior to the match – tickets to this match will not be available to the public.”In addition, we will be shifting the Adelaide Strikers vs Brisbane Heat match to Adelaide Oval as a result of that venue being re-engaged at the back end of the tournament, a great reward for Strikers’ members and fans.”CA have also moved all the remaining matches that were scheduled to be played in Sydney interstate to avoid any potential disruptions for the remainder of the season. “We understand our many passionate members and fans of both the Sixers and Thunder will be disappointed by today’s news that KFC BBL 10 matches won’t be played in Sydney this year,” Dobson said.The schedule changes mean that the Sixers and the Thunder won’t play a single match at home this season. Both sides already had to endure heavy restrictions while playing in Western Australia against the Perth Scorchers after arriving from Queensland.The Heat had already faced issues earlier in the tournament when Chris Lynn and Dan Lawrence were fined for breaking CA’s Covid protocols in Canberra.

Looking to raise their summer funds, Manchester United are reportedly ready to listen to offers to sell one of Erik ten Hag's star players in the coming months amid new interest in his services.

Man Utd transfer news

The Red Devils are yet to secure their first arrival of the summer, but reports suggest that the likes of Joshua Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt could be on the cards. The latter has reportedly given a green light to the move and Manchester United are now in pole position to sign the Bayern Munich ace, who would undoubtedly improve their backline.

Imagine him & De Ligt: Man Utd scouting "electric" Shaw replacement

The impressive full-back could be a game-changer for United.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Jul 3, 2024

The Dutchman is currently away on international duty with the Netherlands as they hope to go all the way at Euro 2024. Once the tournament is over in Germany, however, De Ligt could be set to step into the Premier League and replace Raphael Varane in Ten Hag's defence.

The former Real Madrid star left as a free agent at the end of last season following a mixed spell at Old Trafford, but he might not be the only defender who needs replacing this summer.

According to TalkSport, Manchester United are now ready to listen to offers for Harry Maguire this summer just one year since his move to West Ham United failed to materialise. A lot has happened in a year for the defender who earns a reported £190k-a-week, however.

Maguire has gone from almost certain for the exit door to a player who battled back well to earn a place in Ten Hag's plans once again. Alas, last season's resurgence doesn't seem to have been enough, with United ready to cash in amid reported interest from the Serie A.

Of course, the Red Devils can end any hope of making any money back from their hefty £80m investment to sign Maguire back in 2019, but they may at least be in a position to use his potential exit towards increasing their current budget.

Selling "massive" Maguire is a mistake at this stage

With Lisandro Martinez's recent history far from reliable and Varane already out the door, Manchester United simply cannot afford to lose a resurgent Maguire at this stage. Even with De Ligt possibly on the way, Ten Hag lacks enough depth at the heart of his defence to avoid the catastrophe of dropping the likes of Casemiro into his backline for the second consecutive season.

The Dutchman could yet find a place for the England international next season, having been full of praise for Maguire at the start of the last campaign. Ten Hag said via Sports Mole: "[Maguire] was playing a massive, massive game. A very good performance. He showed leadership and in and out of possession he was very good, so I'm very pleased with that performance from Harry."

With that said, Maguire will be an interesting one to watch this summer, with his return to form seemingly not enough to add security to his role at Old Trafford next season