Category Uncategorized

Arsenal star William Saliba is set to sign a new contract until June 2027 with the club also tying down both Ethan Nwaneri and Reiss Nelson.

Who is leaving Arsenal?

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta could be about to orchestrate a major summer overhaul, particularly in midfield, with West Ham United star Declan Rice finally about to join the north Londoners.

Arsenal are set to sign the England international for £105 million in total (£100m + £5m in add-ons), coming after Arteta's side agreed to pay the initial £100m over a 24-month period.

Rice will join the likes of Kai Havertz, who has already put pen to paper on a £65 million move from Chelsea, and Ajax defender Jurrien Timber as reports suggest he is also on his way to the Emirates.

With all of these incomings, it is inevitable certain players will have to make way, and there are a fair few who could depart. Kieran Tierney, Emile Smith Rowe, Nuno Tavares, Sambi Lokonga, Folarin Balogun and, of course, long-serving star Granit Xhaka are all nominees (Goal).

Meanwhile, it is believed star midfielder Thomas Partey has requested to leave Arsenal, meaning supporters could be seeing the back of the Ghanaian sooner rather than later.

However, there are now a couple who seem set to stay as they avoid the chopping block, a list which includes both Nwaneri and Nelsson as both starlets committ their futures to Arsenal.

Saliba, whose deal is set to expire in 2024 as things stand, will follow the aforementioned duo in penning fresh terms as renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano shares what he knows.

According to the Italian reporter, Saliba is "set to sign" a new long term deal till 2027, with the option of a further year. This is brilliant news for the club, especially considering his importance last campaign.

"After Nwaneri earlier today, Arsenal have scheduled new long term deal signing for Reiss Nelson — four year as revealed in May," said Romano on Twitter.

"Next one: William Saliba, set to sign until June 2027 with option for further year."

What's been said about William Saliba?

The former Marseille star returned from his 2021/2022 loan spell in France to become a fixture in Arteta's starting eleven, playing nearly every game alongside Gabriel Magalhaes before his injury.

Saliba has been praised for his epic contribution by Arteta, not only for his quality, but also a brilliant attitude and application.

"His attitude, the way he came in and said: ‘I’m going to prove that I’m very good and I deserve to be here," said Arteta.

“Without any looking back or being shy, he was doing it the right way and giving the right reasons to think that he was going to be really good for us.

“He took out every question mark that we could have with him and gave us all the reasons to play him. And I think he’s been exceptional since that day.”

Arsenal are already closing in on a number of new signings to kick off this summer's spending, with Mikel Arteta unafraid to throw big money around to bolster his team.

For all their success in the Premier League last term, they still came up considerably short of Manchester City, who went on to claim an unprecedented treble as they won the FA Cup and Champions League too.

Immortalised forever, it will be no mean feat to topple Pep Guardiola's monopoly on English football. However, if anyone is best placed to do it, it's surely his apprentice turned adversary.

Kai Havertz promises to add some additional firepower, whilst Jurrien Timber would provide depth and immense quality to the full-back and midfield spots. Declan Rice is another hopeful addition, leaving almost every role bolstered except for one: a true centre-back.

For all the qualities of the Dutchman, it is clear he has transcended beyond being solely a defender. Still, the Gunners require viable competition for Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba, and yet they could even seek to displace one should reports be true.

After all, it could be argued that the potential acquisition of Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace has the necessary qualities to take over from the hulking Brazilian, and is available for around £50m.

Would Marc Guehi improve Arsenal?

As a couple of bulky central halves, the England international surprisingly boasts comparable quality in possession to the 25-year-old who has shone of late at the Emirates.

Considering that the Chelsea academy graduate has starred for a far weaker team, maintaining an average rating of 6.94 buoyed by his 85% pass accuracy, 1.2 interceptions, 1.4 tackles and 3.6 clearances per game in the league last term (via Sofascore), his performances are made even more impressive.

Such form was foreseen though, with his former teammate at U21 level, Josef Bursik, having branded him a "brick wall" and an "absolute tank" to play with,

To think that this man is three years younger than Gabriel, and yet outperforms him in all three of these defensive metrics just mentioned, it is a scary prospect to imagine Guehi in a team as good as Arteta's.

He would also prove a more reliable asset too, as the Brazil international committed two penalties last year, making one error leading to a goal, via Sofascore. Whilst the Eagles' star defender made a sole similar error of his own, he could be regarded as far more capable in his own box, having conceded no penalties.

Placing a more defensively capable asset beside the elegance and poise of Sailba could help skyrocket this partnership to levels beyond last season, pushing Gabriel back as a remarkable first reserve on the bench. It would be bold, but Arteta is chasing squad depth that only rivals Manchester City can boast.

Saliba could benefit from such a move too, with the Frenchman ranking in the top 7% for pass completion percentage when compared to other centre-backs across Europe. That ball-playing excellence could be further improved with this 6-foot warrior beside him.

Such a transfer would no doubt add the requisite depth needed to compete further with the Citizens, whilst also complying with the club's model of trusting in the quality that youth can bring.

Guehi's future is so bright, and arguably he is already at a level above his potential new teammate. His signing could be the final piece needed to make Arsenal true challengers.

Newcastle United have thrown their hat into the ring in the race for youngster Adama Bojang, according to a report from The Guardian.

Who is Adama Bojang?

The 19-year-old may not be familiar to many because of where he currently plies his trade but it appears as though he is catching the eye of those who have been able to see him in action.

Despite his age, he has already been given the opportunity to play for his country for example in The Gambia Under-20 team. He has eight caps for them so far and has hit the back of the net six times – an incredible rate.

As for his club side, he currently plays Steve Biko FC in his home country and therefore a move to Europe is somewhat of a risk considering that he has yet to test himself at a really high level. However, it is testament to his abilities that so many clubs have now watched him and consider him to be worth the money that is being demanded. One such side now considering a move for him is Newcastle.

According to a report from The Guardian, the Toon are one of a growing number of Premier League sides – and German teams – who are keeping tabs on the player and are considering stumping up the asking price to seal his signature.

What is Bojang's transfer value?

It appears as though his club would want around 3 million Euros in order to let him leave (or about £2.6m). It's a large fee for a player who is so young and has little experience in the game but again, it showcases the potential interested parties are clearly seeing. In fact, the report adds that there has already been an offer from an unnamed team in Germany for Bojang.

Despite being only 19-years-old, his talent already appears to be clear to those who have seen him. Football talent scout Jacek Kulig for example called him "the future of Gambian football" based on his showings for his international team's Under-20 side. It shows that he is already displaying his potential – and he could be a really good signing for the future if the Toon are able to snap him up and add him to the likes of Garang Kuol.

Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has said day-night Tests are likely to be the future of cricket, just the way Twenty20s have gained popularity over ODIs in the last few years

ESPNcricinfo staff12-Oct-2016

Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has said day-night Tests are likely to be the future of cricket, just the way Twenty20s have gained popularity over ODIs in the last few years. Misbah also expressed reservations about the visibility of the pink ball, but said it would probably lead to “a fair competition between bat and ball”.”At the moment, it looks like [the future] keeping in mind the interest of the audience, who want to watch Test cricket,” Misbah said a day before Pakistan’s first day-night Test, against West Indies in Dubai. “After they [spectators] come from work, it’s a good opportunity and you will see it mostly in future. Let’s see how it goes with the pink ball, it’s an experiment. First the one-day came, then Twenty20 came, so [day-night Test] is a good step to keep the Tests alive.”When asked about the pink ball in particular, Misbah’s main concern related to the timing of the Test; he said the players would have to readjust to the pink ball once the lights come on later in the day. Misbah also did not hesitate to crack a joke, when asked if the pink ball needed more grass to survive on.”The only difference is the different timing [of the matches], just the visibility because it’s different for red ball and white ball,” he said. “Maybe when the pink ball gets older, you have to look at it carefully as a batsman because it could be difficult at times [under lights]. You need to make a few adjustments here and there. Overall, it’s good playing under lights also. It’s not like it’s terribly difficult for the batsmen. It’s a fair competition between bat and ball.”Maybe the pink ball survives on grassy pitches but we also have to make sure that we survive as a team,” Misbah said with a laugh. “You look at your strengths and I believe that it’s up to the team; the better team performs well in all conditions and that is the bottom line. I think if you are a good team, then you do well irrespective of the circumstances. Forget about the pink ball and lights, just go out and perform.”Pakistan had recently moved to No. 2 in the ICC Test rankings after drawing 2-2 in England, and rose to the top for the first time since the current ranking system was introduced when India’s last Test in the West Indies was washed out. Now No. 2 again after India’s home series win against New Zealand, Misbah said they would rather focus on the upcoming series against West Indies than the rankings.”That’s not important for us,” Misbah said. “The most important thing is to do well; we are more attentive to our performance in this series. You can’t take West Indies lightly because they are a young side and they have everything to prove and such a side is more motivated. We have done well in the last six years, did well on the England tour so the expectations are high.”Misbah on Babar Azam’s chances: ‘I think there could be no better time than this to make his Test debut’•Getty Images

Pakistan would, however, be without Younis Khan for the first Test as the batsman was advised 10 days of rest to recover from a bout of dengue fever. That would probably mean a debut for an in-form Babar Azam, who struck three straight centuries in the recent ODIs, and maybe a shuffle in the batting order too. Pakistan had already moved Azhar Ali to No. 3 during the England tour after Shoaib Malik’s Test retirement last year, and tried Asad Shafiq ahead of Younis only for the fourth Test, in which Shafiq shone with a century.”I think at the start it was tough, we had to do that in England and considering the conditions it was tough. Not only promoting Azhar but also Asad for No. 3,” Misbah said. “Once we did that and it was successful, we know can do that again. It was a chance to bring in the fifth bowler and bring in a youngster at No. 7. I think a window has opened. I think opening and batting at No. 3 here is a good opportunity before the [upcoming away] New Zealand series, so it’s an advantage to do this before a tough series and settle down on a structure and a balance.”I think there could be no better time than this to make his Test debut,” Misbah said of Azam. “He has played mature innings and has developed well. He has played well not only here but also in New Zealand and looks a good prospect. He is lucky to get a chance at this time, unfortunately because of Younis’ absence due to ill health, but I think this is the best time.”Pakistan will be playing their 400th Test starting Thursday and Misbah said it would be a source of “motivation” for the players to make the historic match “memorable” for them.

Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is wanted by Arsenal this summer, according to an intriguing update from reliable journalist David Ornstein.

Is Gundogan leaving Man City?

The 32-year-old has been one of the standout players in the Premier League this season, producing some magnificent performances for the newly-crowned champions. He has been lauded as "exceptional" by manager Pep Guardiola, scoring nine goals and registering six assists, in all competitions.

There has been plenty of talk surrounding Gundogan's future at the Etihad, however, with his current deal expiring at the end of the season, and an extension not yet being signed. A move to Barcelona has been mooted, with the German possibly wanting one more big move at this stage in his career.

Now, a fresh update has emerged regarding the silky City star's next step, with Premier League title rivals Arsenal seemingly in the mix to sign him.

Could Arsenal snap up Gundogan?

Taking to Twitter on Monday morning, The Athletic's Ornstein claimed that the Gunners are interested in making a move for Gundogan in the summer window:

"Arsenal trying to sign Man City captain Ilkay Gundogan. Arteta wants 32yo if Xhaka goes. Fresh attempts will be made to keep him at #MCFC + other options. #AFC additionally pushing hard for Rice & Mount + renewed efforts to secure Nwaneri."

Losing Gundogan would be a big blow for City this summer, with his influence highlighted so much in recent months, and his performances going up another gear. He has arguably been as good as anyone since the turn of the year, Erling Haaland included, and the £140,000-a-week ace is someone who will hopefully decide to commit his future to the club.

Leaving for Arsenal wouldn't make a great amount of sense, considering Guardiola's men have ended up blowing the Gunners away in the title race, and it would feel like a step down, at a point where Gundogan still feels like someone performing at the peak of his powers.

The hope is that he eventually decides that signing at extension at the Etihad is the sensible option, hopefully even seeing out the rest of his career there, and further cementing his legendary status at the club in the process. He has already done so much good, making 301 appearances and famously scoring the title-clinching goal against Aston Villa last season, and there is still more to come from him.

Liverpool target Ryan Gravenberch is reportedly keen on a move to Anfield this summer and the Dutchman could be an ideal alternative to Jude Bellingham in Jurgen Klopp's midfield.

Could Liverpool sign Gravenberch this summer?

According to reports from Spain, the former Ajax man is unhappy with his game time following his move from the Dutch giants last summer, with just two starts to his name in the Bundesliga.

Things haven't changed under Thomas Tuchel and the 21-year-old is said to have met with the management team at the Allianz Arena recently in order to request a move to Anfield, where he feels he could be a key part of Klopp's midfield revolution ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.

Understandably, that has put the Reds in pole position to seal a signing that could well be a bargain price.

A report from Football Transfers last month suggested that while Die Roten are keen to keep hold of the talented youngster, an offer of €40m (£35m) could be enough to tempt him away in the upcoming window.

Would Gravenberch be a good signing?

Although Gravenberch's time at Bayern isn't much to go off, his time at Ajax saw him recognised as one of the top young midfielders in Europe after some superb performances.

His final season with the club saw him notch two goals and five assists in 30 Eredivisie appearances, earning a superb 7.33 average rating from WhoScored for his performances.

Midfield reinforcements are vital for Klopp this summer if Liverpool are to challenge for the title again next season, especially with James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita all departing on free transfers.

With Fabinho and Thiago both getting on, a youngster such as Gravenberch could be ideal at Anfield as Klopp looks to build a team for the future, although the Dutchman possesses the impressive physicality and title-winning experience that the likes of Harvey Elliot and Fabio Carvalho arguably lack.

His former coach Brian Tevreden said: "Technically, I would say he’s a better version of Pogba in his best days at Juventus, in terms of his technique and his presence on the pitch. He’s very dominant like Pogba was, and that’s what I see in Ryan.”

Would Gravenberch be an ideal Bellingham alternative?

Liverpool were once touted as a potential destination for the Borussia Dortmund star but Real Madrid's interest combined with the Reds' failure to qualify for the Champions League means that a move is surely no longer on the cards.

However, FBref coincidentally suggests that the England international is the third-most similar player to Gravenberch when compared with other midfielders across Europe's top leagues.

If we compare the Netherlands international's stats from last season with Bellingham's from the 2022/23 campaign, they registered extremely similar numbers with regard to passes into the penalty area (both 45) aerial duels won (35 vs 34) and expected assists (3.9 vs 4).as a marker of their ball-playing and athletic prowess.

Gravenberch is clearly a physical ball-carrier with huge potential and while he might not be Liverpool's first choice in midfield, the Dutchman is clearly keen to move away from Munich and could be a superb alternative to Bellingham for Klopp this summer.

Manchester United are eyeing up a swoop for goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen ahead of the summer transfer window as Erik ten Hag looks to bolster his side.

What’s the latest on Bart Verbruggen to Manchester United?

According to the Manchester Evening News, United are keen on signing Anderlecht ‘keeper Verbruggen during the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils have two goalkeepers out of contract this summer in the form of David De Gea and Tom Heaton, while Jack Butland will return to Crystal Palace once his loan spell is finished, meaning Ten Hag will be in the market for a new shot-stopper.

Verbruggen has two years left on his contract and despite being valued at only €3.4m (£3m) by Football Transfers, the Belgian side will be demanding more than that.

Does David De Gea have a future at Manchester United?

The Spaniard is expected to sign a new contract, though some figures at the club want to move on from him and sign a new ‘keeper as a replacement.

His latest error against West Ham United, letting a weak shot by Said Benrahma escape his grasp, was the fourth time he made an error this term which directly resulted in an opposition goal, and if he does stay, his contributions could be minimal.

The £375k-per-week “colossal liability” – as dubbed by writer Muhammad Butt – has conceded 53 goals in 46 appearances this season and a change may be on the horizon for the club.

Verbruggen may only be 20 years old, but he has already played 31 matches for Anderlecht, keeping 11 clean sheets, and he could have the potential to be a long-term No 1 for Ten Hag.

He has been impressive across 17 league matches this season, averaging a Sofascore rating of 7.24/10 while making 3.8 saves per game, keeping eight clean sheets and also committing zero errors which led to goals, suggesting he has a bright future ahead of him.

The youngster was even called up to the Netherlands squad for their European Championship qualifier with Gibraltar in March, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him gain his first cap sooner rather than later.

Ten Hag will surely be looking to do business as soon as possible ahead of an important campaign in 2023/24 and signing the young Dutchman, although raw and still learning, could prove to be a stroke of genius over the next few years.

Arsenal are "following" Valencia's Yunus Musah, with the midfielder now expected to leave the La Liga side in the summer transfer window, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Will Arsenal sign a central midfielder this summer?

With it recently being reported the Gunners are willing to listen to offers for Granit Xhaka in the upcoming window, there are indications Mikel Arteta is planning to revamp his midfield this summer.

Of course, West Ham United captain Declan Rice remains a major target, and Arteta is now becoming increasingly confident he can convince the England international to move to the Emirates Stadium this summer, despite their faltering title bid.

Other options in midfield include Lovro Majer, with the Daily Mail reporting Arsenal have taken a strong interest in the Rennes maestro, while journalist Ben Jacobs believes Moises Caicedo "could still end up" making the switch to north London.

The Gunners have reportedly had a bid turned down for Musah in the past, as detailed by FC Inter News back in December, but they are still considering a move for the midfielder this summer, as per a new update from Romano.

Speaking to CaughtOffside, the transfer guru said: “I’ve mentioned Arsenal and Chelsea’s interest in Yunus Musah and it is the case that they are following Musah since January; Inter as well,”

“At the moment it’s just scouting and not advanced yet, but Musah has good chances to move this summer.”

Should Arsenal sign Yunus Musah?

Football scout Jacek Kulig praised the American for his "excellent" performance with his national side against England at the World Cup, which indicates he would be mature enough to immediately challenge for a place in the starting XI, despite his age.

Kulig also claims the youngster has a "huge future ahead", and he is already making a name for himself at Valencia, having made 32 appearances in all competitions this season, during which time he has picked up two assists.

The 20-year-old's attacking output has not been overly impressive, but he is a threat going forward, ranking in the 90th percentile for successful take-ons per 90 in the past year, and in the 97th for progressive carries, indicating he is capable of working the ball into more promising areas of the pitch.

The £8.3k-per-week starlet would be a fantastic addition for Arsenal, considering the vast potential he possesses, however they still need to make sure they bring in a more proven option in midfield ahead of the Champions League next season, and Rice should be the priority target.

Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay has told Old Trafford officials that he wants to leave the club this summer, Football Insider report.

What’s the latest news on McTominay and Man United?

McTominay has featured heavily in Erik ten Hag’s first season at the club, making 35 appearances in all competitions so far. However, the Scotland international may have been hoping for more starts in those games, turning out from the off on 16 occasions.

One of those was yesterday against Everton, though, playing the entirety of the 2-0 Premier League win at Old Trafford, with Ten Hag praising the midfielder as a result.

"Great player, great personality. So happy I have him in my squad – he gives all his energy, never gives up, so it’s great.”

The 26-year-old opened the scoring with his first league goal of the season and was one of United’s top performers, as per SofaScore, ending the game with a match rating of 7.6/10, winning 12 duels and completing 100% of his long balls and crosses to go with his goal. However, despite this positive display, McTominay has been linked with a summer exit, and an update has now emerged.

Football Insider reporter Pete O’Rourke shared a story in the last 48 hours regarding McTominay and his United future. He stated that the midfielder has informed the Old Trafford board that he wants to leave the club this summer if he is dropped further down the pecking order.

United are looking to sign a new midfielder over the coming months, with McTominay seeing that as a threat as he wants regular first-team football.

Should McTominay stay or go?

The Red Devils have reportedly placed a £50m price tag on McTominay amid interest from Newcastle United, with the 26-year-old’s contract not expiring until 2025.

Therefore, United look set to have a big decision to make over the coming months, especially with McTominay keen to leave. He has enjoyed a purple patch of form in recent weeks, though, scoring four times during the recent international break with Scotland and his recent strike against Everton.

The versatile midfielder is currently battling the likes of Fred, Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Marcel Sabitzer and Bruno Fernandes for a starting spot, though, and with a new big-name midfielder potentially arriving, United may see it as the right time to cash in, only time will tell.

Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Alexis Mac Allister this summer and the Argentine could be a big upgrade on Mason Mount at Stamford Bridge.

Could Chelsea sign Mac Allister?

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the midfield maestro will depart the Amex Stadium early in the summer transfer window, with Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool all said to be keen.

The three clubs are all said to have approached the Seagulls over a potential deal for the 24-year-old, who was reportedly valued at an eye-watering £70m for the 24-year-old, who has caught the eye with his performances for club and country this season.

"Alexis Mac Allister, expected to leave early this summer — understand there are three clubs in the race: Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United," the renowned transfer guru tweeted. "These clubs have approached player’s camp to discuss the project. #BHAFC will decide price tag soon."

Blues owner Todd Boehly has invested a remarkable amount of money during his time at Stamford Bridge but could be swayed by Mac Allister after he starred in Argentina's World Cup win in Qatar, where he contributed one goal and one assist in six appearances, earning a strong 7.11 rating from WhoScored.

His performance in the final against France was particularly impressive, with journalist Roy Nemer celebrating his display just a few days after Lionel Scaloni's side took home the trophy.

He said:

"Alexis Mac Allister was unplayable in the World Cup final. The intelligence, the technique. Incredible talent."

The former Argentinos Juniors man has also been a key factor in Roberto de Zerbi's side's success in the top flight so far this campaign, as he boasts eight goals and one assist with an average rating of 7.08 in the Premier League, which is better than everyone bar Reece James in Chelsea's squad.

Would Mac Allister be a Mount upgrade at Chelsea?

For this reason, he could be a big upgrade on Mount at Stamford Bridge next season, with the England international looking likely to leave amid a contract dispute with his boyhood club.

If you compare the two midfielders' performances in the top flight so far this term, it seems clear that the Argentina international would be the better long-term option for the Blues.

Mount boasts just three goals and two assists in 23 Premier League appearances this campaign, with a far less impressive average rating of 6.72 for his performances.

He has also averaged fewer shots (1.4 vs 2.5), dribbles (0.7 vs 1.2) and tackles (1.4 vs 2.2) than the Brighton maestro, which are all stats you would hope from an all-action, creative midfielder, and this suggests that Mount would not be missed at Stamford Bridge should Boehly bring in Mac Allister as his replacement this summer.