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Manchester United’s fans have been hugely disappointed over the last 12 years, with the club unable to reach the heights that were set under the Sir Alex Ferguson era.

The Scotsman led the Red Devils to a staggering 13 Premier League titles, but since his retirement in 2013, the first-team have only been able to muster multiple second-place finishes.

Ruben Amorim will no doubt want to end such a drought, but the 2024/25 campaign was the polar opposite of what he would have had in mind after taking the reins in November.

The 15th-place finish was unacceptable, especially given the expectations of the fanbase, but the recent run of three wins in a row has highlighted glimpses of a turnaround in form.

However, the upcoming January transfer window will present a new opportunity for the manager to further invest in the squad and bolster the options at his disposal.

United’s hunt for added additions in January

Over the past couple of days, United have been named as one of the sides interested in a move for Borussia Dortmund star Jobe Bellingham in the January window.

The Englishman only moved to the Bundesliga during the summer, but after just two starts in 2025/26, he could be set for a quick exit to gain valuable minutes to aid his progression.

A £42m price tag has been mooted as a result, but other teams such as Crystal Palace and Sunderland are also in the race for his signature at present.

However, he’s not the only player in their sights, with AC Milan winger Rafael Leao another top-level star who’s reportedly being scouted by the Red Devils hierarchy.

According to TEAMtalk, the Portuguese international would be “very keen” on a Premier League switch, with Arsenal and Chelsea just two other sides in contention for his services.

Their report also states that the 26-year-old does have a €150m (£132m) release clause in his contract, but it remains unclear if the Italian side would be willing to negotiate a cut-price deal.

Why United’s £132m target is even better than Mbeumo

The summer gave Amorim and United the perfect chance to improve the first-team squad, with the hierarchy forking out a fee in the region of £71m for attacker Bryan Mbeumo.

The Cameroonian international was a key target for multiple sides in the division, but ultimately, it was the Red Devils who came out on top to win the race for his services.

Many people raised eyebrows at the mammoth fee, especially after one solid year in the top-flight with 20 goals, but it’s safe to say the money spent looks worthwhile just a handful of games into his spell.

The 26-year-old has already found the net on five occasions within his first ten outings for the club, already sitting as the club’s top goalscorer at present.

Mbeumo has nailed his starting role down in Amorim’s system, but that could be about to change beyond January – especially if a deal is agreed for Leao.

There’s no denying it would be a hefty investment given the recent spending at Old Trafford, yet it could be one that takes the current first-team squad to the next level.

When comparing the pair’s respective stats from the current season, the Portuguese star has managed to outperform the current United star in countless key areas.

Leao may have scored slightly fewer goals in 2025/26, but he has posted a better minute per goal ratio – showcasing his clinical nature within the final third.

With the ball at his feet, the Milan star has dominated Mbeumo, posting a higher tally of take-ons per 90 and subsequently achieving a higher success rate.

Finding a teammate is also another strong point of his game, as seen by his higher tallies of key passes and passes into the opposition box per 90 in 2025/26.

Such numbers would allow the likes of Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha to also hit the ground running in Manchester after their own big-money transfers this summer.

To top off his dominance over the current Red Devils star, Leao has produced more progressive passes and progressive carries per 90 – highlighting his ability to get the ball into forward areas at any given opportunity.

£132m is an absurd amount of money, with United having to break the current English transfer record to secure his signature if the Serie A side are unwilling to negotiate.

However, it’s evidently clear that the 26-year-old is a phenomenal talent, levels above Mbeumo, with the hierarchy needing to jump at the chance of landing him in January.

Not Cunha or Mbeumo: Man Utd gem is becoming one of the "best in the world"

Manchester United have yet another world-class star on their hands under Ruben Amorim.

2

By
Ethan Lamb

Oct 30, 2025

Stampede-like conditions cause chaos outside Chinnaswamy Stadium

Shashank Kishore and Ashish Pant04-Jun-2025

Eleven people died in Bengaluru on Wednesday due to injuries suffered during stampede-like conditions around the Chinnaswamy Stadium, where the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) players were being celebrated for winning the IPL for the first time in 18 years.There have been reports of injuries to several more people, who have been admitted to nearby hospitals.Karnataka’s chief minister Siddaramaiah said he had ordered an inquiry into the chain of events that led to the tragedy. “I don’t want to defend this incident,” Siddaramaiah said on Wednesday evening. “Our government is not going to do politics on this. I have ordered a magisterial inquiry, and given them 15 days’ time. There are only small gates at the stadium; hope you’ve visited the stadium.”People entered through the gates, and broke them. A stampede took place; no one expected such a huge crowd. Capacity of the stadium is only 35,000, but two-three lakh people have come to participate in the celebration. I’m not denying or saying nothing happened, that’s why I’ve ordered an enquiry. The pain of this tragedy has also erased the joy of victory.”Several police personnel engaged to manage crowds on Wednesday afternoon were seen carrying fans – some of them minors – to hospital amid rain and heavy traffic that had come to a grinding halt, even as RCB’s victorious squad held the trophy aloft as celebrations continued in front of at least 25,000 fans who had made it inside the Chinnaswamy Stadium.ESPNcricinfo understands the chaos outside the venue prompted state police to issue a directive to the franchise, urging them to keep the celebrations brief. A planned victory lap around the ground was also curtailed as the players exited the venue quickly.Hours after the end of the event at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, RCB issued the following statement: “We are deeply anguished by the unfortunate incidents that have come to light through media reports regarding public gatherings all over Bengaluru in anticipation of the team’s arrival this afternoon. The safety and well-being of everyone is of utmost importance to us.”RCB mourns the tragic loss of lives and extend our heartfelt condolences to the affected families. Immediately upon being made aware of the situation, we promptly amended our program, and followed the guidance and advice of the local administration. We urge all our supporters to please stay safe.”An administrative staff member at one of the hospitals confirmed emergency cases ranging from dehydration to bruises and mild skull fractures. There were also cases of exhaustion and trauma caused by the stampede-like situation that led to several fans trying to climb the boundary wall of the stadium along Cubbon Road.A family member of one of those injured described the scenes as “complete mismanagement” by local authorities. At least four fans were brought in unconscious from the nearby Cubbon Park Metro Station, with emergency wards at Bowring Hospital and Lady Curzon Hospital working swiftly to address the crisis.BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia expressed his condolences. “It is very unfortunate. This is a negative side of popularity,” he said. “People are crazy for their cricketers. The organisers should have planned it better. My deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. I wish early recovery of the injured.”Crowds gathered in large numbers for RCB’s victory parade•PTI

“When one organises a victory celebration of this magnitude, proper precautions, safety and security measures need to be taken. There have been some lapses somewhere.”The news that there would be an event in Bengaluru to celebrate the RCB team emerged on Tuesday night, after they won the final against Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad. “I think I’m going to feel the real side of it when we get to Bengaluru,” Virat Kohli had told RCB Bold Diaries. “And celebrate it with the city and fans who’ve stood by us through thick and thin.”Over the course of the last 24 hours, there was a lack of clarity in public information regarding how events would unfold in Bengaluru on Wednesday. At around 9.45am, RCB outlined the team’s movements from the airport to the Chinnaswamy Stadium via the Vidhana Soudha.However, at noon, the Bengaluru traffic police said there would be no felicitation or parade, and that entry to the Chinnaswamy Stadium required tickets or passes; the public was advised to use the metro and avoid the central business district between 3pm and 8pm. In the early afternoon, RCB maintained the parade was on but advised caution, and requested fans to follow all guidelines issued by the police.It was hard for the police to control the large number of people who turned up to catch a glimpse of RCB•Associated Press

As early as 10am on Wednesday, fans had thronged the Kempegowda International Airport in Devanahalli to welcome the team even before they had departed from Ahmedabad. To minimise heavy traffic movement along the route to the international airport, there was a change of plan: local police and the chief minister’s office issued clearance for the team to land at the old HAL Airport instead. They arrived around 2pm and were received by Karnataka’s deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar, after which they travelled by bus to their team hotel and then got to the Vidhana Soudha at 4.55pm to meet the chief minister, after which reached the Chinnaswamy Stadium at 5.45pm.The movements of the team were flanked by immense crowds. The metro service in central Bengaluru had to halt trains briefly along the Purple Line, while more private security personnel were called in to man the stations along the route to the stadium. In an additional crowd-control measure, authorities suspended stops at key metro stations near the venue to prevent more fans from disembarking and converging on the already overwhelmed area. At one point, the stampede-like situation also led to the police employing mobile jammers, according to the stadium officials.Heavy traffic around the ground and surrounding areas even forced a number of airlines to issue advisories to passengers flying out of Bengaluru on Wednesday evening.

For all the scrutiny on Newcastle United’s inconsistent attack, their defensive organisation has been the team’s saving grace.

Eddie Howe’s side may not have been firing at the other end, but their solidity at the back has provided a foundation to build from.

Heading into their meeting with Arsenal, Newcastle had conceded the lowest expected goals against (xGA) in the Premier League at just 2.5. Compare that with their efforts in offence and the difference is stark.

Burnley

4.5

Aston Villa

5.0

West Ham

5.0

Newcastle United

5.2

Wolves

5.6

That xGA record slipped slightly after the defeat to Mikel Arteta’s side, but they still sit second in that particular metric – underlining the strength of their structure without the ball.

Across their opening fixtures, the Magpies have conceded only five goals, keeping four clean sheets. Only Liverpool and Arsenal have managed to score against them in the league play.

A big part of that early-season resilience has been the work of Tino Livramento, who added balance with his pace and anticipation on the flank.

His injury against Arsenal, which looked serious, could prove damaging to Howe’s plans.

Yet it also highlighted the broader point: Newcastle are in the process of rejuvenating their defensive line.

The partnership of Dan Burn and Fabian Schär has been a reliable one, but with Champions League football and a congested schedule, rotation is no longer optional.

Howe has made it clear that everyone must be ready to slot in seamlessly and that process is beginning to accelerate as one fantastic servant edges towards the twilight of his career.

How Fabian Schär became Newcastle's defensive heartbeat

When Newcastle signed Schär from Deportivo La Coruña in 2018 for just £3m, few predicted he would go on to become one of the club’s most consistent performers of the modern era.

Now into his sixth season, the 33-year-old has amassed 235 appearances, scoring 21 goals and contributing 10 assists – remarkable numbers for a centre-half and a reminder of his set-piece threat.

What sets Schär apart is his technical ability.

Described as a “true legend of the club” by one Newcastle content creator earlier this year, he is most notably comfortable receiving the ball under pressure. The Swiss defender can step out of the backline, carry into midfield, and fire incisive passes through the lines.

Under Howe, that skill has been essential in moving Newcastle away from being a purely reactive side to one that can build attacks from deep.

Chalkboard

He also brings invaluable experience. With 86 international caps for Switzerland before his retirement last year, Schär has featured at World Cups and European Championships, developing into a leader by example rather than volume.

Supporters regard him as one of the best value-for-money signings in the club’s history.

Yet even leaders decline. At 33, Schär has become more vulnerable to injuries, missing recent fixtures due to concussion protocols after a heavy knock against Barcelona in the Champions League.

Subtle lapses – slower reactions to second balls, occasional mistimed challenges – have also crept in.

While his passing remains assured, there is a growing sense that Newcastle must prepare for a future where he is no longer the constant at the heart of their back four.

Newcastle's future leader ready to replace Schar

If Schär represents the present, new signing Malick Thiaw may well be the future.

Signed from AC Milan in the summer for £30m, the Germany international arrived with a reputation as one of Europe’s most technically capable young centre-backs.

At 24 years old, he already had 85 senior appearances for Milan and experience in the Champions League – proof that he can handle high-pressure environments.

Thiaw’s qualities are exactly what Howe seeks in a modern defender.

He is calm in possession, able to turn away from pressure, and plays progressive passes that cut through midfield lines.

Matches Played

22

Tackles

24

Blocks

14

Interceptions

15

Aerial Duels Won

49

His statistical profile backs this up: with a 93.2% pass completion rate, ranking him in the 95th percentile among his positional peers across Europe, he rarely concedes possession cheaply.

He also averages nearly five progressive passes per 90 minutes, placing him in the 85th percentile – evidence of his willingness to play forward rather than sideways.

His performance against Arsenal offered a glimpse of his potential. Thiaw won four of six aerial duels, cleared the ball eight times, and crucially, was not dribbled past once.

In possession, he completed 20 of his 23 passes, showing the kind of poise that makes him such a natural fit for Howe’s tactical approach.

Defensively, he read danger well, stepping out to intercept once and shepherding Arsenal’s attackers away from goal with his positioning.

Stylistically, Thiaw has drawn comparisons with Ibrahima Konaté and Micky van de Ven – defenders who blend physical dominance with technical assurance.

Newcastle fans already see the potential for Thiaw to form a long-term partnership with Sven Botman, one that could anchor the club’s backline for the next five years.

Of course, the summer arrival still needs to adapt fully to the pace and intensity of the Premier League, but the early signs are encouraging.

With Champions League fixtures demanding rotation, Howe may soon face a decision that seemed unthinkable only a year ago.

Phasing out one of the club’s most reliable veterans in favour of a player who looks ready to lead Newcastle’s defence into a new era.

Newcastle can axe Gordon by unleashing 18-year-old who's "similar to Mbappe"

Anthony Gordon hasn’t been at the races this season for Newcastle United.

ByWill Miller Sep 29, 2025

Derbyshire fought out a final-over draw as Glamorgan took a pendulum-swinging thriller down to the final ball thanks to Ben Kellaway’s heroics in the Rothesay County Championship.Kellaway claimed career best batting and bowling figures on the same day as Luis Reece and Derbyshire No. 11 Blair Tickner survived 28 balls to secure a draw. Kellaway, 21, had struck 78 to set up a declaration before taking 5 for 101 in 25 overs, falling just short of handing Glamorgan a win.Tasked with the last over after taking two wickets in two balls, Kellaway produced a spectacular turnaround after twists and turns on the final day with Derbyshire firing towards victory on numerous occasions when set 338 in 65 overs.David Lloyd ignited Derbyshire’s winning hopes against his former side before Martin Andersson and Brooke Guest’s 97-run partnership put Derbyshire in the ascendancy for 56 of their 65 overs.The day began with all results possible. Glamorgan had an explosive end to the first session via Chris Cooke and Kellaway, despite the latter having some fortune when kicking a ball away from his stumps on 19. With 124 added in 32 overs from the overnight score, Glamorgan subsequently declared at lunch with the veteran keeper on 49 not out.Derbyshire, requiring a chase which would rank fourth amongst their successes if achieved, started strongly with the opening pair chalking up a half-century partnership in just 10.5 overs, stamping their authority early.But Ned Leonard struck in his first over to trigger a “will they, won’t they” scenario. Wayne Madsen took over as enforcer for his 22 from 19 balls, ended by a diving catch from Andy Gorvin at fine-leg, another for Leonard.Kellaway sparked Glamorgan hopes on two occasions, initially with the prize wicket of Caleb Jewell short of 50, sweeping against the spin. But Guest and Andersson’s run-a-ball 50 partnership with innovation and big hitting in form of reverse-sweeps, muscled pull shots and clean strikes over mid-on put Glamorgan into defensive mode, until Asitha Fernando broke through by trapping Guest in front.Kellaway kickstarted the hosts for a second time to forehadow a Derbyshire collapse, removing Andersson and Zak Chappell with successive balls before having Anuj Dal stumped to complete his five-for. That dismissal left Derbyshire nine down with almost five full overs remaining.But Tickner showcased his international experience in blocking out for 1 in 10 balls alongside the injured Reece, batting at No. 10, as the last pair survived against an ambidextrous over from off-spinner-come-left-arm-orthodox Kellaway.

Yorkshire show fight but chase of 148 never enough to fully test home side

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay06-Apr-2025Hampshire 249 (Brown 49*, Hill 3-36) and 148 for 5 (Prest 57) beat Yorkshire 121 (Dawson 3-8, Abbott 3-42) and 275 (Lyth 106, Bairstow 56, Wheal 4-56) by five wicketsThe Ben Brown era as Hampshire captain began with a five-wicket Rothesay County Championship win over newly promoted Yorkshire.Brown took over from James Vince as the club skipper – who had led the side to a second-placed finish last season – and was given a few anxious moments during their chase of 148.Yorkshire had been behind the eight-ball since they being bowled out for 121 on the first day but Adam Lyth ground out 106 to give them hope of a sensational turnaround victory. Jack White and Dom Bess’s two wickets left Hampshire sweating on 86 for 4, but Tom Prest eased the worries with a bullish 57 to take his side towards the win with Liam Dawson.It meant Hampshire’s fresh start without Vince and influential fast bowler Mo Abbas began with 19 points, while the visitors – with their new-look leadership team of Jonny Bairstow and Anthony McGrath – took three points from the contest.Hampshire began the day with the dream of taking four quick wickets, a short chase of less than 100 and getting home in time for . The route to victory didn’t quite follow that script, with Lyth stoutly compiling runs with some brave, defensive tail-end batting.Lyth had taken 123 balls to strike his first boundary of the innings, but started day three with a luscious straight drive for four – it marked a gear shift from his overnight 56 off 192 balls, accelerating with 49 runs off 83 on day three.He found a willing partner in nightwatcher Ben Cliff – who had suffered an injury earlier in the match which prevented him from bowling. Cliff stuck around for 78 balls, adding 42 with Lyth, before Kyle Abbott found his outside edge during the first over with the second new ball.It didn’t blow Yorkshire open. Dom Bess blocked out for 16 balls before Abbott sent his off stump cartwheeling from the 17th, before Ben Coad hung firm for nine off 46 balls.But the main contributor was the experienced Lyth. The 37-year-old went to a 38th first-class century in 263 balls – four short of his slowest. He brought it up with a firm back-foot drive to the boundary and quickly celebrated with two arms akimbo, before a series of fist pumps. He is Yorkshire’s 11th all-time leading red-ball century-maker.New Zealander Brett Hampton ended Hampshire’s toil. Firstly, he got one to bounce on Coad, who edged behind, before Lyth skied straight up in the air.Initially, Hampshire strode towards the winning post, with Fletcha Middleton and Mark Stoneman putting on 47 in 14 overs, but things went south.Stoneman got frustrated, having been dropped, after only scoring 11 in an hour and attempted to attack Bess, and was bowled. Nick Gubbins was struck plumb in front on the back pad, Toby Albert edged behind – both falling to White – and Middleton’s 38, which also saw him dropped, was ended when Bess had him lbw.Four wickets had been lost for 40 runs, and at tea 62 runs were still required.Prest got the bit between his teeth and refused to bow to the pressure by trying to knock the runs off swiftly, although he was also put down. His sixth 50-plus score in first-class cricket came in 64 balls, a ball before reaching a half-century stand with Dawson. Prest was bowled to give Bess a third with the scores level, ending a 61-run stand – before Brown came in to score the winning run to delight a sun-kissed Utilita Bowl crowd.

Nicole Faltum will go from the T20I tour of New Zealand to leading the Australia A 50-over side

ESPNcricinfo staff06-Mar-2025

Heather Graham, Nicole Faltum and Charli Knott will captain Australia A in a multi-format series against England A from late March.The series includes three T20s, three one-day games and a four-day match with all the games being played in Sydney.Graham will lead the Australia A T20 side while Faltum, who has been called up for the T20I tour of New Zealand starting March 21, will captain the one-dayers and Queensland allrounder Knott will take charge of the four-day contest from April 12-15 at Cricket Central.Australia A vs England A fixtures

26 March: First T20, Hurstville Oval

28 March: Second T20, Hurstville Oval

30 March: Third T20, Hurstville Oval

2 April: First 50-over match, Cricket Central, Sydney

4 April: Second 50-over match, Cricket Central, Sydney

7 April: Third 50-over match, Cricket Central, Sydney

12-15 April: Four-day match, Cricket Central, Sydney

The England A matches will be preceded by the second running of the Green vs Gold fixture where two groups of Australian players face each other in a three-day game which will be held in Canberra from March 12-14. The concept was introduced last year and Georgia Voll scored a double century.Faltum will captain the Green side while Gold will be led by Knott.”These series make up a crucial part of the elite player pathway, providing some our best and most promising domestic players with additional development opportunities and the chance to show selectors what they can do against strong international opposition,” national selector Shawn Flegler said.”The National Selection Panel is always looking to the future as we’ve seen in recent years with Georgia Voll and Phoebe Litchfield transitioning into the Australian team with great success, so this is a great opportunity to get a look at a wide range of players.”We’ve included some fresh faces across the squads and are excited to see the likes of Grace Dignam, Elsa Hunter, Gabby Sutcliffe, Sianna Ginger and Rhys McKenna in action.”With a one-day World Cup in India this year and a T20 World Cup next year, the ‘A’ series in particular, will allow us to have a good look at players we think could push for selection.”The visit of England A comes after the senior side was whitewashed 16-0 in the Ashes earlier in the season.Australia A squads vs England AT20s
Lauren Cheatle, Hannah Darlington, Sophie Day, Amy Edgar, Tess Flintoff, Sianna Ginger, Heather Graham (capt), Charli Knott, Anika Learoyd, Rhys McKenna, Madeline Penna, Amy Smith, Courtney Webb, Tahlia Wilson50-overs
Lauren Cheatle, Hannah Darlington, Sophie Day, Nicole Faltum (capt), Tess Flintoff, Sianna Ginger, Nicola Hancock, Ella Hayward, Charli Knott, Anika Learoyd, Amy Smith, Georgia Voll, Courtney Webb, Tahlia WilsonFour-day
Maitlan Brown, Lauren Cheatle, Maddy Darke, Sophie Day, Nicole Faltum, Tess Flintoff, Sianna Ginger, Nicola Hancock, Ella Hayward, Charli Knott (capt), Anika Learoyd, Lilly Mills, Rachel Trenaman, Tahlia WilsonAustralia Green v Gold SquadsGreen
Lauren Cheatle, Maddy Darke, Grace Dignam, Nicole Faltum (capt), Sianna Ginger, Ella Hayward, Elsa Hunter, Katie Mack, Lilly Mills, Georgia Prestwidge, Gabby Sutcliffe, Rachel Trenaman, Amanda-Jade WellingtonGold
Maitlan Brown, Hannah Darlington, Sophie Day, Emma de Broughe, Amy Edgar, Tess Flintoff, Nicola Hancock, Charli Knott (capt), Anika Learoyd, Bridget Patterson, Amy Smith, Courtney Webb, Tahlia Wilson

Everton’s summer transfer window has been defined by a need to strengthen both in attack and defence.

After the addition of Jack Grealish on loan from Manchester City, attention has now turned to shoring up the back line.

The Toffees were caught short in their opening Premier League defeat away at Leeds, with James Garner deputising at left-back in Vitaliy Mykolenko’s absence.

Jarrad Branthwaite’s injury further compounds the situation, leaving manager David Moyes eager to explore options that could reinforce the defensive spine of his team.

To complement a backline that conceded only 44 times last season, the joint fourth-best defensive record in the league, Everton must identify players capable of adding both experience and quality at the back.

Against this backdrop, Everton have begun exploring defensive reinforcements who could address immediate gaps while providing long-term stability.

Everton hold talks over Manchester City defender

According to TEAMtalk, Everton have entered exploratory talks regarding a move for Manchester City defender, Nathan Ake.

Described as an “exceptional guy” by Pep Guardiola, the 30-year-old is being considered as a potential addition to help strengthen a defence that Moyes is keen to build on.

Manchester City are reportedly open to selling the player, largely because of the depth of their squad and recent acquisitions in defence, including Rayan Ait Nouri.

Guardiola’s known preference for a smaller squad makes a move more feasible, though any transfer is likely to require a substantial fee, with City valuing the player in the £30-35m range.

Transfer Focus

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

While a loan deal with an obligation-to-buy clause could be considered, Everton cannot pursue that route due to rules that prevent them from taking two players on loan from the same club in one window, as they have already signed Grealish.

The defender is reportedly eager for consistent first-team football and is understood to prefer a club competing in European competitions, which could complicate negotiations, especially considering Newcastle hold an interest.

However, Everton are determined to find a solution before the window closes.

What Nathan Ake can bring to Everton

Ake offers versatility because he is capable of playing at both centre-back and left-back and brings extensive Premier League experience.

Since joining City from Bournemouth for £41m in 2020, he has been a reliable squad player, regularly competing with the likes of Ruben Dias, John Stones, Manuel Akanji, and Josko Gvardiol for minutes.

Last season, he featured 29 times in the league, showcasing his composure on the ball and technical reliability.

According to FBref, he ranks in the 99th percentile for pass completion rate at 94.4% and the 95th percentile for progressive passes per 90 minutes, with 6.17 per match.

His progressive carries per 90 also place him in the 90th percentile, highlighting an ability to advance the ball effectively from deep positions.

Despite these attributes, the player is less remarkable in traditional defensive metrics, ranking in the bottom 20 percentiles for tackles, blocks, interceptions, and dribblers tackled.

However, at City, his role has often been more focused on ball progression and positional play than on direct defensive duels, suggesting that under Moyes, who may deploy him with different responsibilities, he could adapt and improve in these areas.

Everton’s acquisition of Grealish on loan from Manchester City has added creativity to the squad, but the limitations of the forward are clear.

At 29, he has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, missing 17 games over the past two campaigns.

In 2023/24, Grealish played just 721 minutes, starting only seven matches and making 13 substitute appearances, per Transfermarkt.

His output last season was modest, with a single goal and one assist, though his quality on the ball and ability to create chances has never been in doubt.

Thomas Tuchel has emphasised that consistent first-team football is vital for Grealish if he has plans to play at the World Cup next year.

By contrast, Ake could provide a more immediate and reliable impact in a key area of need. The contrast between these two summer moves underlines Everton’s evolving priorities.

With the squad already strengthened in attack by the likes of Grealish and Thierno Barry, the remaining requirement is to ensure defensive stability.

Injuries to Branthwaite and Mykolenko have exposed the need for experienced and adaptable players who can seamlessly slot into multiple positions. The City defender’s Premier League experience, technical quality, and leadership make him a more impactful addition relative to the immediate threat posed by injuries.

His presence could allow Moyes to maintain balance across the pitch, protect the defensive line, and build a platform from which the team can attack more confidently.

While City value him at £30-35m, the investment is aligned with the type of secure, experienced reinforcement that Everton require.

In comparison, Grealish’s loan structure provides creative options but comes with limitations on continuity and availability, particularly if injuries recur.

For a manager focused on building a resilient and balanced squad capable of competing across a demanding Premier League season, the addition of a versatile centre-back offers more tangible returns than an attacking loan.

Everton’s interest in the Manchester City defender reflects a pragmatic approach to squad building.

By prioritising defensive reinforcement over additional offensive firepower, Moyes is targeting the most pressing weakness in his side.

The player’s Premier League experience, positional versatility, and technical skill offer a solution that addresses immediate needs while providing scope for adaptation and growth.

Romano: Everton leading race to sign £40m star with same agent as Barry

He has been one of Everton’s top targets all summer.

ByCallum Kemp Aug 21, 2025

While Grealish brings flair and creativity, it is the defender’s ability to strengthen Everton’s spine that could have the most decisive impact on the club’s 2025/26 campaign.

Crystal Palace could sign an “extraordinary” Champions League player as part of a swap deal involving Eberechi Eze, according to a report.

Eze could be heading for Crystal Palace exit door

Eze’s future at Selhurst Park is now in major doubt, amid widespread interest from rival Premier League clubs, with Tottenham Hotspur recently stepping up their interest in the attacking midfielder.

With the 27-year-old eager to join Thomas Frank’s side, a move could be on the cards, but Spurs are far from the only potential suitors, as the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal have also been named as interested parties.

Of the aforementioned clubs, the Gunners’ interest appears to be the most advanced, and there have recently been suggestions that Mikel Arteta’s side could be closing in on a deal, having allegedly agreed a total package worth £55m.

However, there is also a possibility that a deal of a different nature could be agreed, according to a report from Football Transfers, which states Crystal Palace have identified Arsenal’s Jakub Kiwior as a potential replacement for Marc Guehi.

Guehi has now received an official approach from Man United, while the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea have previously been named as potential suitors, which means the Palace captain could be on his way out this summer.

As such, Kiwior could be used as a makeweight in Arsenal’s deal to sign Eze, with Arteta personally keen to take the England international to the Emirates Stadium.

"Extraordinary" Kiwior could be solid Guehi replacement

It will, of course, be very difficult for the Eagles to replace their captain, but there are signs that the Poland international, who is valued at over £30m, could be a solid option, having impressed for the Gunners in recent times.

Indeed, with Arteta short on options in defence at the back end of last season, the 25-year-old was given the nod at centre-back, and he received high praise from the Arsenal boss for his performances in the Champions League.

Related Crystal Palace want to sign £26m star from under nose of Nottingham Forest

The Eagles are keen to get one over their divisional rivals…

Posts BySean Markus Clifford Aug 11, 2025

Arteta said: “He deserves a lot of credit because he hasn’t played too much throughout many months, and suddenly he’s been thrown into the most difficult context, at the highest level, playing against the best opponents, when you haven’t had the physical rhythm or the confidence to do it, and I think he’s been exceptional.”

Having also been dubbed “extraordinary” by Robert Lewandowski, Kiwior clearly has the talent to be a success at Selhurst Park, but it would be disappointing if he is signed as part of a swap deal for Eze, as Palace should do everything to keep hold of their talisman.

Arsenal are currently working to tie up a few key summer deals for Mikel Arteta, as the Gunners also prepare to kick off their pre-season tour of Asia against AC Milan on Wednesday.

After announcing the signing of England international winger Noni Madueke from Chelsea for an initial £48.5 million, rising to £52 million with add-ons (Sky Sports), defender Cristhian Mosquera is poised to follow soon.

£50m "game-changer" would now love to join Chelsea despite Arsenal approach

The Blues have been handed a boost in their pursuit of an attacker.

By
Dominic Lund

Jul 21, 2025

Arsenal reached an agreement with Valencia to sign the 21-year-old some time ago, and reports suggest he’s undergone a successful medical in north London (Tribuna Deportiva Valencia).

However, sources from both sides are refusing to disclose the reason for Mosquera’s announcement delay (Tribuna Deportiva Valencia), and they’ll likely delay unveiling his capture until after their tour of the Far East.

Arteta’s side are in the market for a central attacking midfielder too, with both Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze and now RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons among Arsenal’s chiefs targets for the role.

Bolstering that area of the squad and bringing in someone to complement captain Martin Odegaard will immediately be prioritised once they finally seal a deal for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres.

Arsenal reached an agreement in principle with Sporting over the signing of Gyokeres midway through July, for a total fee of around £64 million including add-ons (The Athletic), but it is taking some time to fully finalise his transfer to N5.

The final round of negotiations has reportedly centered around the conditions of those add-ons and bonuses involved, which could take the fee up to £69 million (The Guardian), with Gyokeres’ agent even agreeing to waive his fee to make this move happen.

Viktor Gyokeres has "chosen to go to Arsenal" with Man Utd rejected

The hold-up has prompted reports that Man United could mount a late hijack for the 27-year-old, and Fabrizio Romano even confirmed this morning that intermediaries have invited the Red Devils to make a bid of their own.

Now, journalist Duncan Castles has told The Transfers Podcast that Sporting are unhappy with Gyokeres’ conduct, informing the striker last week that he’s in breach of contract for refusing to train.

His lawyers defended against this by accusing Sporting of going back on their gentlemen’s agreement that Gyokeres could leave Sporting for a certain fee. So, there is a legal dispute apparently going on in the background, and the sense is now that Rui Borges’ side are attempting to make his exit as difficult as possible.

In some good news for Arteta, though, Gyokeres has “chosen to go to Arsenal” and will continue forcing through a move to north London, with United facing a brutal knockback if they decide to enter the race.

“There was a story in Portugal over the weekend that Manchester United had come in and gone over the top of Arsenal’s offer and that Sporting were very close to agreeing a transfer fee with Manchester United for Gyokeres,” said Castles.

“I’m told by sources at Manchester United that that’s not true, and also by people close to Gyokeres that it’s absolutely not true, and even if it were true, Gyokeres would not go to Manchester United. He has chosen to go to Arsenal, and he will continue to force that move.”

Gyokeres bagged 54 goals in all competitions for Sporting last season, leading the line in their charge for a first domestic double in around 20 years, but his memorable spell in Portugal isn’t about to end smoothly.

Shamar Joseph could return to the scene of his triumphant start to Test cricket after nominating for the BBL while India captain Harmanpreet Kaur is among the first group of players confirmed for the WBBL draft.Initial batches of ten names for both the BBL and WBBL were released on Monday after nominations closed ahead of the drafts which will take place on September 1. New Zealand quick Lockie Ferguson is among them having opted out of a central contract and could join Finn Allen in the tournament after his signing with Perth Scorchers was confirmed.England captain Heather Knight has nominated alongside left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone who is currently the No. 1-ranked bowler in both ODIs and T20Is. However, England players won’t be available for the entire tournament due to a tour of South Africa from late November.Related

• All the BBL and WBBL squads for 2025-26 season

• Devine stays with Perth Scorchers for two more seasons

• Chamari Athapaththu signs three-season WBBL deal with Sydney Thunder

• All the BBL and WBBL squads for 2024-25 season

• Finn Allen set for two-year Perth Scorchers deal

Players being included in the nominations list also confirm that they have not been signed under the pre-draft mechanism but 14 of the 20 are eligible for retention by their teams. That includes South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt who has been part of back-to-back titles with Adelaide Strikers. Harmanpreet can also be retained by Melbourne Renegades. From India, Jemimah Rodrigues and Deepti Sharma have also been confirmed in the draft.Other notable retention options include Jamie Overton (Adelaide Strikers), Alex Hales (Sydney Thunder), James Vince (Sydney Sixers), Alice Capsey (Melbourne Stars) and Shabnim Ismail (Hobart Hurricanes). Although Danni Wyatt withdrew from last season’s WBBL, she is eligible for retention by Perth Scorchers having originally been signed in the draft.Schedule clashes will again be a key issue in the BBL. West Indies have a Test series starting against Pakistan starting on January 16 and after his Gabba heroics Joseph said he would always be available for Tests although his current availability is stated as full including finals. Meanwhile Vince and Hales are among those who have deals in the ILT20 which will start on January 11. Overton was also retained in the ILT20 but is currently down as having full BBL availability.Players are drafted in either Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze categories and clubs must select at least two during the draft. Those signed under pre-draft agreements are allocated a pick that matches their salary band. The gaps in the pre-draft signings are expected to be fill in the coming days.The WBBL runs from October 27 to December 1 and the BBL from December 15 to January 27.

BBL nominations

(retention eligibility in brackets)Laurie Evans (Perth Scorchers), Lockie Ferguson, Alex Hales (Sydney Thunder), Shamar Joseph, Shadab Khan, Jamie Overton (Adelaide Strikers), Haris Rauf (Melbourne Stars), Jason Roy, Mujeeb Ur Rahman (Melbourne Renegades), James Vince (Sydney Sixers)

WBBL nominations

(retention eligibility in brackets)Suzie Bates (Sydney Sixers), Alice Capsey (Melbourne Stars), Sophie Ecclestone (Sydney Sixers), Shabnim Ismail (Hobart Hurricanes), Harmanpreet Kaur (Melbourne Renegades), Heather Knight (Sydney Thunder), Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Laura Wolvaardt (Adelaide Strikers), Danni Wyatt (Perth Scorchers)

Confirmed pre-draft signings

Adelaide Strikers: –
Brisbane Heat: Nadine de Klerk, Colin Munro
Hobart Hurricanes: Chris Jordan
Melbourne Renegades: Hayley Matthews, Tim Seifert
Melbourne Stars: Marizanne Kapp, Tom Curran
Perth Scorchers: Sophie Devine, Finn Allen
Sydney Sixers: Amelia Kerr
Sydney Thunder: Chamari Athapaththu, Sam Billings