Good morning everyone and welcome to the latest edition of the Daily Briefing! Thanks as always for reading, and hope you enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Eli Junior Kroupi continues to attract interest

• Could Liverpool lose manager Arne Slot?

• Arsenal beat Atletico Madrid to reach UCL final

Bukayo Saka fires Arsenal into Champions League final

Arsenal are through to their first Champions League final in 20 years after a hard-fought win over Atletico Madrid at the Emirates Stadium.

Bukayo Saka fired in from close range for what proved to be the winner, with the Gunners again generally the better of the two sides, as they were for much of the first leg in Madrid last week, which finished 1-1.

Gabriel Magalhaes had to make an incredible last-ditch challenge to prevent an equaliser, while Viktor Gyokeres missed a great chance to kill the game and cap what was an otherwise superb performance up front.

The Emirates Stadium erupted at full time as Arsenal now prepare to take on either Bayern Munich or Paris Saint-Germain in the final in Budapest on 30th May.

FT Arsenal 1-0 Atletico Madrid (2-1 on aggregate) [Pictures from Prime Video Sport]

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Arsenal

• Arsenal and Liverpool could battle it out for the potential big-money transfer of Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi this summer, but the Cherries aren’t planning to sell. (iNews)

Atletico Madrid

• Diego Simeone was involved in a row with Arsenal director and former Atletico Madrid chief Andrea Berta towards the end of the game - full story here!

Barcelona

• Barcelona are understood to be one of the top clubs showing a strong interest in Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi ahead of the summer. (Sky Sports)

• Barcelona are exploring Anthony Gordon as an alternative to keeping Marcus Rashford permanently, while they also like Real Betis star Ez Abde. (Matteo Moretto)

Bayern Munich

• Bayern Munich have made a concrete offer of a five-year contract to Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon. (Florian Plettenberg)

Chelsea

• Chelsea have made contact over hiring former Barcelona manager Xavi to take the job at Stamford Bridge this summer. (talkSPORT)

• Chelsea are leading their Premier League rivals in the race to sign talented young Club Brugge defender Joel Ordonez this summer. (TEAMtalk)

Liverpool

• Liverpool manager Arne Slot has received a surprise approach over becoming the new manager of Ajax. (De Telegraaf)

• Liverpool are competing with Arsenal for the potential big-money transfer of Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi this summer, but the Cherries aren’t planning to sell. (iNews)

• Liverpool are eyeing up Alessandro Bastoni and Nico Schlotterbeck as two of their top targets to replace the ageing Virgil van Dijk this summer. (Football Insider)

• Liverpool are looking to make a major raid on one of their Premier League rivals this summer - full story here!

Manchester City

• Manchester City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders is emerging as a surprise target for Real Madrid after falling out of favour at the Etihad Stadium. (Defensa Central)

Manchester United

• Manchester United are leading the race to sign Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba this summer, with the Seagulls preparing to let him go in a big sale. (CaughtOffside)

• Manchester United also have a strong interest in signing in-demand West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, whom they view as the perfect all-rounder for that position. (Ben Jacobs)

• Casemiro is making a move to Inter Miami a priority once he leaves Manchester United this summer, with the Brazilian midfielder even prepared to take a pay cut so he can play alongside Lionel Messi. (Sky Sports)

• Bruno Fernandes is emerging as a shock target for Galatasaray in an ambitious potential summer transfer. (Sky Germany)

Newcastle United

• Bayern Munich have made a concrete offer of a five-year contract to Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon. (Florian Plettenberg)

Real Madrid

• Kylian Mbappe’s relationship with Real Madrid is rapidly deteriorating - will he play in El Clasico? Full details here!

• Real Madrid have reportedly placed Aston Villa manager Unai Emery as a surprise name at the top of their list to take over this summer. (talkSPORT)

• Manchester City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders is emerging as a surprise target for Real Madrid after falling out of favour at the Etihad Stadium. (Defensa Central)

Tottenham

• Tottenham are hopeful of agreeing a new contract for talented young defender Luka Vuskovic at the end of the season. (Sun)

• Tottenham could also look to strengthen their defence this summer with a move for out-of-favour Bayern Munich centre-back Kim Min-jae. (Fussball Daten)

• Radu Dragusin is attracting interest from Juventus, Roma, and RB Leipzig as Tottenham are prepared to cash in on the defender this summer. (Sports Boom)

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Morning folks! Welcome to the latest Daily Briefing - all your essential football headlines delivered ad-free and straight to your inbox as always. Thanks for reading, and enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Liverpool’s shortlist to replace Van Dijk.

• Man Utd identify Casemiro replacement.

• Dutch star on Chelsea’s radar this summer.

Premier League round-up

Chelsea suffer embarrassing loss against Forest

Chelsea hit a new low as Nottingham Forest claimed a 3-1 win at Stamford Bridge, handing them a sixth straight Premier League defeat.

Forest’s rotated side stunned the hosts early, with Taiwo Awoniyi scoring twice, including inside two minutes and Igor Jesus adding a penalty to lift them six points clear of danger.

Chelsea finally ended their long scoring drought when Joao Pedro netted a stoppage-time overhead kick, their first league goal since March 4.

FT Chelsea 1-3 Nottingham Forest [Pictures from Sky Sports]

Man City titles hopes dented by Everton

Manchester City suffered a blow in the title race after a dramatic 3-3 draw with Everton.

Jérémy Doku scored a late equaliser to rescue a point, but City had led before collapsing, conceding three quick goals, two to Everton’s Thierno Barry, including one from a mistake by Marc Guehi.

Erling Haaland sparked the comeback before Doku’s final strike denied David Moyes a first win over Pep Guardiola.

City now sit five points behind Arsenal with a game in hand.

FT Everton 3-3 Man City [Pictures from Sky Sports]

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Arsenal

• Arsenal target Endrick is not considered a player for sale by Spanish giants Real Madrid. (TEAMtalk)

Aston Villa

• Aston Villa are preparing to reignite their long-standing interest in Juventus forward Jonathan David. (Tuttosport)

Barcelona

• Barcelona interested in 25-year-old England forward as Raphinha alternative. More details!

• Roma’s Evan N’Dicka is on the shortlist for Barcelona as a defensive option. (Gianluca Di Marzio)

Chelsea

• Chelsea and Manchester United are actively plotting an audacious summer swoop for Dutch attacker Donyell Malen. (Corriere dello Sport)

  

• “Why would I sign for Chelsea?” – Worrying admission after Chelsea lose to Forest. Read more!

Inter Miami

• Inter Miami are continuing their pursuit of another marquee signing, with Casemiro emerging as a top target ahead of the summer transfer window. (Fabrizio Romano)

Liverpool

• Liverpool have two world class names on their shortlist to replace Virgil Van Dijk. Full Story here!

• Liverpool and Arsenal could be involved in a transfer battle this summer to sign PSG winger Bradley Barcola. (TEAMtalk)

• Liverpool ready to ruin Man United’s transfer plans by targeting Premier League defender. More details!

• Dominik Szoboszlai makes transfer plea after Old Trafford defeat. Read more!

Manchester City

• Marc Guehi may have just gifted Arsenal the title with one of the worst howlers you’ll see. Watch here!

• Tijjani Reijnders could be on the move again just a year after arriving at Manchester City, with fresh reports suggesting the Dutch midfielder may be open to leaving in the coming weeks. (Football Insider)

• Pep Guardiola’s side are putting the final touches on a “huge bid” to lure Nottingham Forest standout Elliot Anderson to the Etihad Stadium. (Nicolo Schira)

Manchester United

• Manchester United are searching for a long term replacement of Brazilian midfielder Casemiro. Brighton’s Carlos Baleba is their primary target. (Caught Offside)

  

• Manchester United have made contact with Botafogo regarding their 25-year-old midfield dynamo, Danilo. (Fogao)

• Manchester United make Carrick decision after private talks with three key stars. Read more!

Tottenham

• Manchester United have identified Tottenham defender Micky Van de Ven as the “ideal candidate” to reinforce their backline. (The Boy Hotspur)
  

  Leave a comment

Morning folks! Welcome to the latest Daily Briefing - all your essential football headlines delivered ad-free and straight to your inbox as always. Thanks for reading, and enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Mo Salah decides his next move.

• Favourite for Man United manager job.

• Defender wants move to Arsenal.

Premier League round-up

Man United do the double over Liverpool this season

Kobbie Mainoo marked his new contract in perfect fashion, scoring the winner as Manchester United edged Liverpool 3-2 to secure Champions League qualification.

The high-stakes Premier League clash at Old Trafford saw United start fast, with Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko scoring inside 14 minutes.

Liverpool hit back after the break, as Dominik Szoboszlai punished a loose pass before Cody Gakpo equalised following a goalkeeping error.

But Mainoo had the final say, firing home in the 77th minute in front of the Stretford End just days after signing a new deal until 2031.

FT Man United 3-2 Liverpool [Pictures from Bein Sports]

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Arsenal

• Newcastle United defender Tino Livramento is convinced he will join Arsenal in the summer. (HandofArsenal)

• Ray Parlour on the future of Gabriel Jesus: “I think Jesus might leave at the end of the season, he is at that age where he wants to be playing week in, week out.”

Aston Villa

• Aston Villa are continuing to shape their long-term recruitment strategy, and Paris Saint-Germain teenager Ibrahim Mbaye has emerged as one of the young talents on their radar. (Daily Mail)

Barcelona

• Barcelona striker target opens door to summer move – “I would be very grateful”. Full Story here!

Bayern Munich

• Bayern Munich appear to be stepping up their pursuit of Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon, with manager Vincent Kompany giving his approval for the club to move forward with plans to sign the England international this summer. (Florian Plettenberg)

  

Chelsea

• Maximiliano Araújo of Sporting is wanted by Chelsea but they face competition from Premier League rivals Manchester United. (Caught Offside)

• Chelsea star wants summer exit after struggles under Liam Rosenior. Full Story here!

Liverpool

• Mohamed Salah is strongly considering a move to Major League Soccer once his Liverpool contract expires, allowing him to leave Anfield on a free transfer. (TEAMtalk)

• Liverpool head coach Arne Slot had urged the Anfield hierarchy to make a swift, bargain swoop for Napoli defender Sam Beukema. (AreaNapoli)

• Slot hints at potential return dates for Alisson and Isak as Liverpool duo miss Man United clash. Read more!

Manchester United

• Michael Carrick has quickly gone from interim solution to leading contender as Manchester United consider their long-term managerial future. (Fabrizio Romano)

• Man United star spotted filming farewell video ahead of summer departure. Read more!

• Bruno Fernandes to Sky Sports: “I really like to be at the club and I really think that being successful at this club is something that I would NEVER get being in ANY other club.”

• Kobbie Mainoo aims subtle dig at Ruben Amorim as Manchester United star praises Michael Carrick after Liverpool winner. More details!

• David Ornstein shares immediate post-match update on Carrick’s future after United secure UCL spot. Read more!

Manchester City

• Manchester City star John Stones is wanted by clubs in Italy, Germany and England. (Caught Offside)

  

Newcastle United

• Nick Woltemade’s future at Newcastle United is suddenly becoming a talking point, with reports suggesting the German striker could leave the club just a year after arriving in England. (Christian Falk)

Real Madrid

• Alvaro Arbeloa accused of neglecting Real Madrid players as dressing room toxicity revealed. Read more!

Tottenham

• Tottenham are interested in signing the Real Madrid forward, Brahim Diaz, at the end of the season. (Fichajes)

• Tottenham are interested in signing the Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki at the end of the season. (Caught Offside)
  

  Leave a comment

Morning folks! Welcome to the latest Daily Briefing - all your essential football headlines delivered ad-free and straight to your inbox as always. Thanks for reading, and enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Pep Guardiola’s successor named.

• Liverpool in talks with Premier League midfielder.

• Manager interested in Man Utd job.

Premier League round-up

Arsenal beat Fulham to build lead over Man City

Viktor Gyökeres scored twice as Arsenal sent a strong Premier League title message with a convincing 3-0 win over Fulham at the Emirates Stadium.

Bukayo Saka played a key role by assisting Gyökeres’ ninth-minute opener before scoring Arsenal’s second just before halftime.

Gyökeres completed his brace in first-half stoppage time, heading home from Leandro Trossard’s cross to seal the victory.

The win puts Arsenal six points ahead of Manchester City at the top of the table, with a superior goal difference of four, though they have played two matches more.

FT Arsenal 3-0 Fulham [Pictures from TNT Sports]

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Arsenal

• Lifelong Arsenal fan could be on the move as Man United lead Gunners in transfer chase. Read more!

• Arsenal and Liverpool are interested in signing Daniel Svensson from Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season. (FussballDaten)

• Arsenal could have superstar midfielder banned for Atletico Madrid showdown. Full Story here!

Aston Villa

• Aston Villa among a host of clubs strongly interested in securing the services of Rangers prospect Bailey Rice. (TEAMtalk)

Barcelona

• Raphinha considering his future at Barcelona amid Saudi Arabia interest. Full Story here!

Chelsea

• Fabrizio Romano believes Andoni Iraola would be highly interested in taking over Manchester United or Chelsea. Read more!

• Aston Villa will sell reported Chelsea target Morgan Rogers this summer under one circumstance. Full Story here!

  

• Chelsea have made it clear Joao Pedro is not for sale this summer, despite supposed interest from Barcelona. (ESPN Brazil)

Liverpool

• Mo Salah interview with Liverpool legend reveals underlying rift with Slot. More details!

• Liverpool are interested in signing the Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton at the end of the season. (Marca)

• Liverpool have joined the race for the Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi. (Marca)

• Liverpool ‘likely’ to target PSG magician this summer; he could plausibly be tempted. Full Story here!

• Liverpool have joined the race for Chelsea target Jan Paul van Hecke. (Voetbal International)

Manchester City

• Pep Guardiola will step down at the end of this season, with everything in place for Enzo Maresca to take over. (HandofArsenal)

Manchester United

• Manchester United are interested in signing Donyell Malen at the end of the season. (GiveMeSport)

• Blow for Manchester United as Euro giants make final decision on Marcus Rashford. More details!

Newcastle United

• Newcastle United are preparing a raid on West Ham for defender Konstantinos Mavropanos, as they look to capitalise on the instability currently surrounding the East London club. (SportsBoom)

  

• Newcastle United are monitoring Corinthians starlet Andre Luiz as a potential successor to Bruno Guimaraes, should the Magpies’ talisman depart St James’ Park this summer. (Felipe Silva)

Real Madrid

• Real Madrid are losing the race against Liverpool to sign Premier league midfielder. Read more!

Tottenham

• Tottenham are interested in signing Sunderland midfielder. Read more!

• Youssouf Fofana has been linked with a move away from AC Milan at the end of the season. Tottenham and Aston Villa are showing interest in signing him. (Gazzetta Dello Sport)
  

  Leave a comment

Hello everyone, and welcome to the latest edition of the Daily Briefing! Thanks as always for reading, and hope you enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Andrea Berta personally involved in a move for Baris Alper Yilmaz

• Liverpool make enquiry for an ex-Premier League flop

• Tottenham submit offer for French midfield star

• Chelsea and Manchester United are scouting Noah Sadiki extensively

Arsenal

• Arsenal are interested in signing the Galatasaray attacker Baris Alper Yilmaz, and Andrea Berta has scouted him personally. (Sabah)

• Arsenal have been offered the opportunity to sign AC Milan forward Rafael Leao for a fee of £43 million. (TEAMtalk)

• Arsenal are interested in the Newcastle United attacker Anthony Gordon, and there is a serious chance he could leave the club in the summer. (Fabrizio Romano)

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Barcelona

• Barcelona are interested in signing the Chelsea striker Joao Pedro, and they have opened talks for the Brazilian. (ESPN Brasil)

• Barcelona are interested in the Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, and they would have to pay around €100-110 million. (Radio Marca)

• Barcelona are interested in signing the Borussia Dortmund prodigy Samuele Inacio. (BILD)

Chelsea

• Chelsea are eyeing up a summer move for Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola as a replacement for Liam Rosenior. (Football Insider)

• Chelsea have been told they can sign Rafael Leao from AC Milan in the summer for a fee of £43 million. (TEAMtalk)

• Chelsea are interested in signing the FC Koln winger Said El Mala this summer. (Christian Falk)

• Chelsea are keeping tabs on the West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes. (TEAMtalk)

• Chelsea have held fresh talks with the representatives of Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki. (CaughtOffside)

Everton

• Everton are looking to improve the attacking unit with the signing of Chelsea flop Liam Delap in the summer. (iNews)

• Everton are interested in bringing John Stones back to the club from Manchester City at the end of the season. (iNews)

• Everton are looking to sign the Arsenal defender Ben White at the end of the season. (iNews)

Liverpool

• Liverpool are interested in signing the Sporting CP playmaker Francisco Trincao at the end of the season, and they have made enquiries for him. (Anfield Index)

• AC Milan forward Rafael Leao has been offered to Liverpool for a fee of £43 million in the summer. (TEAMtalk)

• Liverpool are plotting a summer move for the 17-year-old Porto winger Oskar Pietuszewski. (Record)

• Liverpool remain long-term admirers of Bradley Barcola, and they could move for the PSG attacker in the summer. (The Times)

• Liverpool want to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United, but the Hammers are unwilling to sanction his exit. (TEAMtalk)

Manchester City

• Manchester City are interested in signing the West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, and they will face competition from Manchester United. (TEAMtalk)

Manchester United

• Manchester United could pocket up to £36 million from Mason Greenwood’s summer move, who is a target for PSG. (Hooligan Soccer)

• Intermediaries have reached out to Manchester United regarding a summer move for AC Milan star Rafael Leao. (TEAMtalk)

• Manchester United want to sign Bayern Munich left-back Alphonso Davies, but they would have to pay a premium. (Football Insider)

• Manchester United are interested in signing the Porto attacker Oskar Pietuszewski. (Record)

• Manchester United have identified Sunderland star Noah Sadiki as a priority target, and they have been scouting him repeatedly. (CaughtOffside)

Real Madrid

• Jose Mourinho has confirmed that Real Madrid have not been in touch with him regarding a summer move. (Marca)

• Dani Ceballos has played his last game for Real Madrid, and he has fallen out with Alvaro Arbeloa. (Marca)

Tottenham Hotspur

• Tottenham Hotspur have already submitted an offer to the representatives of AC Milan midfielder Youssouf Fofana. (Gazzetta dello Sport)

Liverpool and Manchester United are on alert as this big-name Premier League star is set to make a decision over his future this summer.

Read more

Happy Friday everyone and welcome to the latest edition of the Daily Briefing! Thanks as always for reading, and hope you enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Aurelien Tchouameni to Liverpool or Manchester United?

• Yan Diomande eyed for ambitious Arsenal transfer

• The latest on Andoni Iraola’s future

• Plus don’t miss Christian Falk’s latest column!

Europa & Conference League round-up

Nottingham Forest edge out Aston Villa in close first leg

A penalty from Chris Wood was enough for Nottingham Forest as they secured a 1-0 win over Aston Villa in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final.

There’ll still be plenty to play for for Villa in the return fixture at Villa Park, but Wood’s superbly-taken spot-kick was the difference on this occasion, while Forest goalkeeper Stefan Ortega also made a superb save from Ollie Watkins.

Plus watch out for a moment of outrageous skill by Elliot Anderson against Morgan Rogers!

FT Nottingham Forest 1-0 Aston Villa [Pictures from TNT Sports]

Crystal Palace have one foot in the final after impressive win

Crystal Palace have a big advantage in their Europa Conference League semi-final after winning 3-1 away to Shakhtar Donetsk.

The Eagles took the lead after just 21 seconds as Ismaila Sarr made an immediate impact with a smart finish, and that set the tone for the rest of the evening.

Although the home side equalised, Palace were quickly back in front and even broke away to grab a third that makes them the big favourites to reach the final.

FT Shakhtar Donetsk 1-3 Crystal Palace [Pictures from TNT Sports]

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Arsenal

• Arsenal are stepping up their interest in Yan Diomande, with Mikel Arteta pushing for the club to make the RB Leipzig winger a top priority target. (Fichajes)

• Arsenal are closing in on the signing of 17-year-old Red Star Belgrade wonderkid Vasilije Kostov in a deal worth an initial €12m, potentially rising to €20m. (Sportinjo)

• Myles Lewis-Skelly could leave Arsenal for a fee of around £43m this summer, with Atletico Madrid interested in the talented young England international. (Fichajes)

• Mikel Arteta was pictured with Arsenal transfer target Julian Alvarez after Wednesday night’s Champions League semi-final first leg. (Fabrizio Romano)

• AC Milan are eyeing up a potential move for Gabriel Jesus, with the Arsenal striker becoming one of their top targets, though it’s not yet clear if he’ll be available. (Gianluca Di Marzio)

• An Arsenal winger target could be available for a reduced €35m price this summer - full story here!

• This Arsenal star has explained why the team are confident of reaching the Champions League final - full quotes here!

Atletico Madrid

• Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has provided an update on Julian Alvarez’s fitness for the second leg against Arsenal - full story here!

• Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie hit out at a mistake by the referee in the Atletico Madrid game this week - full quotes here!

Barcelona

• Barcelona are looking to make a major sale or two this summer, with full-backs Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde currently looking like the main candidates to be offloaded by Deco. (Sport)

• Barca are also not ruling out selling star attacking duo Raphinha and Fermin Lopez this summer. (Sport)

• Hansi Flick has an agreement in place to sign an extension to his Barcelona contract, with talks to finalise the deal planned for the end of the season. (Mundo Deportivo)

Bayern Munich

• Bayern Munich have held meetings with goalkeeper Manuel Neuer over signing a new contract. (Christian Falk, CF Bayern Insider)

Chelsea

• Andoni Iraola is a top target for both Manchester United and Chelsea, but the Blues are currently understood to be further ahead in the running after holding talks with the Bournemouth manager’s representatives. (Mark Brus, CaughtOffside)

• Xabi Alonso is open to taking the Chelsea job as long as he’s given a decent amount of ‘control’ in the role. (Simon Phillips)

• Chelsea are working hard to hire Porto manager Francesco Farioli, but the Italian tactician is not convinced about managing the Blues. (TEAMtalk)

• Nicolas Jackson can leave Chelsea this summer, with the Blues confident they could bank as much as £60m from selling the Senegalese striker permanently. (the Athletic)

• Chelsea could look to replace Robert Sanchez with this exciting goalkeeper signing this summer - full story here!

• Mauricio Pochettino has revealed the only two signings he was involved in during his time as Chelsea manager. (the Overlap)

Everton

• Everton are gearing up for a busy summer as they eye up Arsenal defender Ben White, Chelsea striker Liam Delap, and a return for their former player John Stones, whilst also looking to make Jack Grealish’s loan permanent. (iNews)

Juventus

• Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has personally called Manchester City attacking midfielder Bernardo Silva over joining when he becomes a free agent this summer. (Gazzetta dello Sport)

• Juventus have also held talks with the representatives of Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski as they’re confident of reaching an agreement on a free transfer in the coming weeks. (Tuttosport)

Liverpool

• Liverpool are one of the clubs interested in the potential transfer of Aurelien Tchouameni, but Real Madrid are likely to give him a new contract. (Mark Brus, the Daily Briefing)

• Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes is now just one step away from leaving his role to take up a job with Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal. (Nicolo Schira)

• Liverpool are considering a slightly risky summer move for the out-of-form Athletic Bilbao and Spain winger Nico Williams. (Fichajes)

Manchester City

• Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has personally called Manchester City attacking midfielder Bernardo Silva over joining when he becomes a free agent this summer. (Gazzetta dello Sport)

Manchester United

• Manchester United are one of the clubs interested in the potential transfer of Aurelien Tchouameni, but Real Madrid are likely to give him a new contract. (Mark Brus, the Daily Briefing)

• Andoni Iraola is a top target for both Manchester United and Chelsea, but the Red Devils have also still not ruled out keeping Michael Carrick for the permanent job. (Mark Brus, CaughtOffside)

• Kobbie Mainoo has spoken about why he decided to sign a new Manchester United contract - full quotes here!

• Despite interest in Elliot Anderson, Manchester United are keen to avoid a bidding war with Manchester City for the midfielder, who Nottingham Forest value at as much as £120m. (ESPN)

• Manchester United are interested in Lille wonderkid midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, 18, but they’re competing with Arsenal, Bayern Munich and other top clubs for his signature. (Abdellah Boulma)

• Manchester United are interested in highly-rated young West Ham defender El Hadji Malick Diouf. (the Guardian)

• Manchester United could have a clear run at Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba this summer. (Ben Jacobs)

• Manchester United have identified this in-form Bundesliga star as a top target for a problem position - more info here!

Real Madrid

• Jurgen Klopp is open to a return to management, but is currently not understood to be a candidate for the Real Madrid job. (AS)

Tottenham

• Radu Dragusin could be allowed to leave Tottenham for a fee of just €20m this summer, with the defender attracting interest from Bundesliga clubs. (Fanatik)

• Tottenham have made their first offer to sign AC Milan midfielder Youssouf Fofana ahead of the summer transfer window. (Gazzetta dello Sport)

Leave a comment

I’ve been looking into one of the big transfer rumours that’s taken off in the last week or so, and I’m happy to be able to provide an update after speaking with some top sources.

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Good morning everyone and welcome to another Daily Briefing - here as always to give you all the essential football headlines in one place, delivered straight to your inbox. Enjoy! :-)

Today’s top stories:

• What Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid return means for Chelsea

• Rafael Leao to Manchester United in a swap deal?

• Plus Arsenal linked with left-back and more

Arsenal draw with Atletico Madrid in semi-final first leg

Arsenal got a decent result away to Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie, though it was not a game without major controversy.

The Gunners took the lead through a Viktor Gyokeres penalty in the first half, but David Raya was one of their best performers as Atletico had a few good chances saved.

Julian Alvarez eventually equalised through a penalty of his own, while Arsenal were then controversially denied a second spot kick for a foul on Eberechi Eze.

FT Atletico Madrid 1-1 Arsenal [Pictures from TNT Sports]

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Arsenal

• Arsenal are interested in Real Madrid left-back Alvaro Carreras ahead of the summer and he could be open to a move away from the Bernabeu. (CaughtOffside)

• Andrea Berta was a key figure in bringing Viktor Gyokeres to Arsenal, with manager Mikel Arteta initially favouring Benjamin Sesko. (the Athletic)

Atletico Madrid

• Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone gave his views on the controversial penalty that was awarded to this side against Arsenal last night. (Marca)

Barcelona

• Barcelona star Raphinha is emerging as a top transfer target for Saudi Pro League clubs ahead of this summer. (Mundo Deportivo)

• Real Betis defender Natan is the latest target to emerge for Barcelona as they explore the market for a number of options in that position. (Mundo Deportivo)

Chelsea

• Andoni Iraola has indicated he’d be open to taking the Chelsea manager’s job following reports of contacts between the Blues and his representatives. (Football Insider)

• How Jose Mourinho’s likely return as Real Madrid manager could impact Chelsea and other clubs in a changing market. (Mark Brus, the Daily Briefing)

• Liam Delap could leave Chelsea after just one season, with the west London giants open to selling the striker amid interest from Everton. (Football Insider)

• Chelsea and Liverpool are showing a strong interest in signing Norwegian midfield wonderkid Eirik Granaas this summer. (TEAMtalk)

• Chelsea are up against Manchester City for an exciting Bundesliga youngster - full story here!

Liverpool

• Liverpool and Chelsea are showing a strong interest in signing Norwegian midfield wonderkid Eirik Granaas this summer. (TEAMtalk)

• Could Liverpool snap up this in-form Premier League star? An ex-Red is confident of their chances - full story here!

• Liverpool left-back Andrew Robertson could be set for a surprise move to Turkey when his contract expires this summer - full story here!

• Virgil van Dijk on Alisson Becker possibly leaving: “It would definitely be a big blow and a miss, but I don’t think it’s a good idea to think ahead about what could or could not happen. He’s very important for me as one of the leaders in the team, and he is very important on the pitch because he is, in my opinion, the best goalkeeper in the world. He’s trying to be back as soon as possible to help us for the last four games, and that’s our main focus. Whatever happens after that is not something you should ask me. Would I love him to stay? Of course, there’s no doubt about that.” (James Pearce, the Athletic)

Manchester City

• Manchester City are exploring a possible transfer move for Porto midfielder Alan Varela, who has a €75m release clause. (Ekrem Konur)

Manchester United

• Manchester United may find themselves powerless to prevent Bruno Fernandes leaving this summer as he has a release clause in his contract and wants assurances over the direction of the club. (Telegraph)

• Rafael Leao to Manchester United could be a realistic possibility as AC Milan have an interest in Joshua Zirkzee, while Marcus Rashford and Manuel Ugarte could also be options in a swap deal. (Gazzetta dello Sport)

• Manchester United have set their sights on signing an in-form Brighton star, and it’s NOT Carlos Baleba - full story here!

• Manchester United are the latest club to be linked with an interest in talented young Ajax sensation Mika Godts. (Football Insider)

• Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara is on Manchester United’s radar as he could be available for €35-40m this summer, with other Premier League clubs also keen. (Calciomercato)

Newcastle United

• Newcastle United are already prepared to offload Yoane Wissa after just one season at St James’ Park, with Eddie Howe frustrated by the striker’s lack of impact. (the Athletic)

PSG

• PSG have recently been intensifying their efforts to sign Lille wonderkid Ayyoub Bouaddi ahead of other top clubs such as Arsenal and Liverpool. (Abdellah Boulma)

Real Madrid

• How Jose Mourinho’s likely return as Real Madrid manager could impact Chelsea and other clubs in a changing market. (Mark Brus, the Daily Briefing)

• Real Madrid plan to sign at least three new defenders in this summer’s transfer window, with Antonio Rudiger and Dani Carvajal facing uncertain futures. (El Chiringuito)

• Real Madrid and Toni Kroos are now in formal talks over the former Los Blancos midfielder coming back, though it’s not yet clear what role he’d have. (the Athletic)

• Real Madrid defender Eder Militao is now looking set to miss the 2026 World Cup with Brazil through injury. (Marca)

Tottenham

• As many as FIVE Tottenham players are being eyed up as summer transfer targets for Barcelona director Deco. (Fichajes)

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Trends can change quickly in football. Up until this season there had appeared to be a near-worldwide consensus on possession football - playing out from the back, emphasis on dominating the ball and winning it back as quickly as possible. Then suddenly, some time early on in the 2025/26 campaign we all realised we were back to lumping it forward, set-pieces, and even long throws. The arc of the universe is long, but it bends towards vindication for Tony Pulis’ Stoke City eventually.

The era of Pep Guardiola coming to an end suddenly meant that even the man himself deployed a low block away to Arsenal back in October, happy to sit back on just over 30% possession of the ball and try to hit the Gunners on the break. It seems fitting, then, that his old nemesis Jose Mourinho now looks set to land back at Real Madrid after over a decade.

Guardiola adopting Mourinho-style football earlier this season now looks like not only a sign of tactical trends shifting, but also the men football clubs might start hiring in response to the change in style.

Read more

Supporting the Premier League nowadays looks very different compared to even just five or six years ago. Crucially, football matches continue to be important. However, the major change in football fandom happens not because of the matches themselves, but because of the numerous activities people engage in surrounding them - before the matches, during the matches, and even long after they have ended.

Actually, in terms of daily time and attention, being a fan has become a continuous thing. It exists on social networks, in conversations between friends, and in entertaining short video clips as well as lengthy discussions on forums. At the same time, smaller behavioural changes are noticeable: fans will check odds, follow match stats, or even place a quick bet early in the day before the noise of the day officially starts.

A Global Crowd That Never Logs Off

The Premier League has always had the potential to attract fans from around the world. That aspect is not new at all. What has changed is that now those fans are more connected to each other than ever before.

If you take a moment to scroll through any matchday hashtag, you will instantly realize it. Fans from London, Lagos, Jakarta, and New York share the same reaction within seconds to a particular moment. There is no lag anymore; it is just a global conversation happening simultaneously.

Indeed, this has become a digital stadium of sorts, we would say. While it certainly doesn’t compare to actually being there in person, it’s very close, especially when it comes to the emotional side of things.

And the clubs have taken full advantage of this. Most of them even have multiple accounts with content tailored to different regions. Besides that, they post at times suited to their global audience. This is no accident, and it yields results.

Those interested in how this interactive environment relates to broader football analysis should take a look at Premier League match insights and data trends at theanalyst.com, which offers an excellent perspective on how global fan engagement ties into performance narratives.

Matchday Isn’t 90 Minutes Anymore

Modern football fandom follows a certain rhythm. No rules are set, but if you become a close enough observer, you can discern it.

Before Kickoff: The Build-Up

As the game approaches, the pre-match buzz gets louder:

• People guess the lineups

• Supporters discuss tactics (sometimes with quite some detail)

• Short video clips and edits start appearing

Not everyone is correct, but it doesn’t really matter because the aim is not to be precise. It’s all about excitement and looking forward to the game.

During the Game: Real-Time Reaction

Everything speeds up the minute the match kicks off.

Social media posts are sent out in waves. Goals lead to spontaneous posts - video clips, memes, commentary. The response on some occasions even seems to be quicker than the broadcast.

At this point, apart from watching the match, many fans check live stats or follow changes in betting odds. They don’t do this obsessively, but just enough to keep their interest and engagement beyond what is immediately visible on the screen.

After the Final Whistle: Analysis and Narrative

At this point, everything calms down.

• Different player ratings can be found

• There are lots of tactical breakdowns shared

• Fan podcasts and reactions take over timelines

And slowly but surely, a story emerges. Performers and non-performers are identified, and consequences are tracked. The atmosphere is no longer wild, but rather thoughtful.

Creativity Is No Longer Optional, It’s Central

What is striking when you examine fan culture today is that fans don’t simply consume; they also produce.

This wasn’t always the case. Or maybe it was, but not on the scale that we have now.

Fan Content Today

• Shooting and posting short videos with edits and music

• Writing tactical discussions explaining formations and changes

• Making memes related to the club or rivalries

• Producing long-form narrative content about players or seasons

Some pieces are very much works in progress. Some are very professional. However, all of them contribute to the experience.

Even from our perspective, it is quite astonishing how some players can become “digital gods” regardless of their actual performances on the pitch. One viral video can completely change the way people see a player, sometimes even unfairly, but that’s how it is now.

Clubs Have Become Media Platforms

This is not a reactive stance on the clubs’ part; instead, they very much want to be involved in shaping changing football fandom.

A useful UK example is City A.M.’s “Arsenal: Leading the digital charge as well as the Premier League”, which shows how top clubs are building digital ecosystems that keep fans engaged far beyond matchday.

The quality of their output has been subtly but noticeably enhanced over the past few seasons. Shots from behind the scenes, glimpses into training sessions, showing players interacting… all of these are components of a broader content strategy.

What Clubs Focus On Today

• Content is continuously available day-to-day, not just on matchdays

• Players’ personal and professional stories are shared (interviews, personal moments)

• Videos are short and designed primarily for mobile devices

• Interactive formats such as polls or live sessions

Essentially, these activities work towards the same goal: helping fans get to know the team as if they were never far from the stadium.

Those interested in gaining insights into how football clubs leverage these digital strategies can frequently visit sportbusiness.com, which continuously analyses the shift from sports to media ecosystems.

The Role of Storytelling, Subtle but Powerful

The outcomes still count. That remains unchanged.

In fact, stories are becoming a mainstay alongside the results, and sometimes even more important.

A young star making his debut. A managed team under new supervision. Two rivals are reigniting their competition. These are just some stories that have a great impact, particularly in the digital world.

When stories become popular, they travel fast. Fans not only spread them but also often reinvent or even exaggerate them at times, which is quite natural in such processes.

From one standpoint, it is evident that the emotional aspect of fan investment has come to rely as much on narrative as on the sporting performance itself.

Internal Content Loops: How Fans Stay Engaged

Interconnectivity is another feature of content that is often overlooked by the general public, and understandably so.

Three examples of linked content types are:

• A tactical analysis article

• A player performance evaluation

• A historical comparison piece

The net result of this is a continuity cycle or loop. Users are not limited to consuming a single piece of content, but almost unwittingly move from one to another.

Presently, in the case of sports analysis and match previews, platforms also direct fans toward features like team form analysis and player breakdowns across recent fixtures (INSERT INTERNAL LINK HERE), and this helps keep fans engaged across multiple pages.

It is subtle, but very effective.

Technology Is Changing the Experience Again

We are even talking about evolution in the sense that things are not fixed right now.

One can immediately recognise shifts in the way fans engage with their teams as new tools are introduced:

• Second-screen apps providing the latest stats in real time

• Personalised content feeds based on users’ preferences

• Highlight reels generated by AI, released seconds after key moments

• Highly experimental AR features for immersive viewing

Notwithstanding that some of the above-mentioned innovations seem a bit futuristic or underutilised at present, it is a safe bet that eventually they will become as common as live tweeting and matchday threads today.

For a related look at how digital habits and entertainment now intersect with football culture, see The Daily Briefing’s “Beyond the Pitch: How Off-Field Influences Are Shaping Player Performance”, which connects online entertainment with broader patterns of football behaviour.​

Where Does This Leave Fan Culture?

It is more complex and multi-layered now than it was a few years ago.

The fundamental elements, however, have stayed the same: loyalty, rivalry, shared emotion. They have gone nowhere.

Yet, a whole digital layer has formed around that core. It is fast-paced, inventive, and occasionally a little wild.

In reality, the majority of fans now exist in two separate worlds simultaneously: watching a football match and scrolling, reacting, posting, and engaging on their devices. Being exclusively one or the other is a thing of the past.

Summary

If there is one takeaway, it would be this: nowadays, Premier League spectatorship is no longer limited to the stadium, or even the match itself.

It is almost continuously in progress. It is greatly influenced by communities, content, and small daily interactions, which, when combined, shape the overall experience.

Of course, the game itself will always determine the outcome, but the surrounding experience - that’s really where the changes have happened.

Morning folks! Welcome to the latest Daily Briefing - all your essential football headlines delivered ad-free and straight to your inbox as always. Thanks for reading, and enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Liverpool step up interest in PSG winger.

• Chelsea in talks with top manager target.

• Man United secure midfielder deal.

Champions League round-up

PSG and Bayern Munich play a CL classic semifinal

Paris Saint-Germain edged Bayern Munich 5–4 in a thrilling Champions League semifinal first leg at Parc des Princes, the highest-scoring semifinal in the competition’s history.

PSG recovered from an early Harry Kane penalty to lead 5–2, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembélé both scoring twice.

Late goals from Dayot Upamecano and Luis Díaz kept Bayern firmly in the tie ahead of the second leg.

FT PSG 5-4 Bayern Munich [Pictures from Prime Video Sport UK]

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Arsenal

• Sky Sports News have concerning update for Arsenal fans ahead of Atletico clash. Full Story here!

• Arsenal and Chelsea are interested in signing the Ajax attacker Mika Godts. (Voetbal Premiur)

• Arsenal have an interest in the potential transfer of Bournemouth forward Junior Eli Kroupi as Mikel Arteta has been impressed by him this season. (talkSPORT)

• Arsenal have held talks on the player side as they eye an ambitious transfer move for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez. (Ben Jacobs)

• Arsenal eye long-term striker solution with bold €40m bid for Chelsea target. More details!

Barcelona

• Barcelona have a cheeky plan to keep Marcus Rashford away from Manchester United. Read more!

Chelsea

• Liam Delap has absolutely no intention of packing his bags and running away from the challenge of playing for Chelsea. (Telegraph)

• Chelsea have three managers on their shortlist: Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva and Xabi Alonso. (Sky Sports)

• Chelsea start initial talks with candidate to become next manager. Full Story here!

• Chelsea are open to negotiating the sale of Spanish left-back Marc Cucurella amid interest from Barcelona ahead of the summer. (Fichajes)

• “He’d be brilliant” – Kaveh Solhekol names the manager Chelsea should hire. Read more!

Liverpool

• Liverpool may struggle to sign RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande because of one reason. Read more!

• Liverpool are looking at Portuguese international goalkeeper Diogo Costa. (TEAMtalk)

  

• Liverpool eye €100m move for attacker who lit up Anfield in UCL clash. Full Story here!

• Arne Slot urges Liverpool to sign £30m centre-back Sam Beukema, who previously impressed him at Anfield. (TEAMtalk)

• Liverpool are ‘actively assessing’ their goalkeeping options ahead of the upcoming transfer window, with four candidates believed to be on their shortlist. Bart Verbruggen, Robin Roefs, Diogo Costa and James Trafford. (TEAMtalk)

Manchester City

• Both Manchester City and Chelsea could be involved in a transfer tug-of-war for Nathan De Cat. (TEAMtalk)

Manchester United

• Manchester told to appoint Xabi Alonso by Alan Pardew: “If you are going to look at a financial situation, Alonso isn’t going to cost you a transfer fee. Taking all of his staff would all be involved with a new contract, with a new club. There’s a real window of opportunity. I think they’re going to have to make a big call in the summer. Slot has had a strange season. He could still end up in the Champions League. So is that enough with the injuries and the problems that he’s had? So that’s an interesting one, but if he isn’t going to Liverpool, I think Man United should be interested.”

• Manchester United transfer target Adam Wharton is reportedly expected to be the next big departure out of Crystal Palace. (talkSPORT)

• Manchester United have secured a massive victory off the pitch as Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that “phenomenal” midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has agreed to a new long-term contract at Old Trafford. More here!

• Fabrizio Romano says Man United have already agreed personal terms with one transfer target. More details!

• Andy Mitten says it’s entirely ‘possible’ Man Utd facilitate deal for £70m Real Madrid star. Read more!

Newcastle United

• Newcastle United are already actively exploring ways to offload 29-year-old forward Yoane Wissa. (The Athletic)

Paris Saint-Germain

• Winger’s PSG future in doubt as Liverpool step up interest along with Man City. More details!

Real Madrid

• Real Madrid are not ready to sell Manchester United transfer target Aurelien Tchouameni and instead want to offer him a new and improved contract. (Telegraph)

  

• Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is interested in bringing Jose Mourinho back to the club. (The Athletic)

Tottenham

• Tottenham Hotspur are looking to add more quality to their attacking unit and have identified Japanese forward Ayase Ueda as a target. (TEAMtalk)

• Tottenham linked with bold move for €70m Arsenal talent amid squad rebuild. Full Story here!

• Tottenham’s campaign has descended into a full-blown medical emergency, with Dominic Solanke becoming the latest high-profile casualty to be ruled out for the remainder of the season. (Fabrizio Romano)
  

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Morning folks! Welcome to the latest Daily Briefing - all your essential football headlines delivered ad-free and straight to your inbox as always. Thanks for reading, and enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Frontrunner for Chelsea’s manager job.

• Arteta wants to sign Newcastle star.

• Gareth Southgate to Premier League club?

Premier League round-up

Man United edge closer to UCL qualification

Manchester United moved closer to Champions League qualification with a 2–1 win over Brentford, as Bruno Fernandes recorded his 19th assist of the season.

Casemiro opened the scoring before Benjamin Šeško added a second, while Brentford threatened late on, but United held firm to secure a crucial victory.

FT Man United 2-1 Brentford [Pictures from Sky Sports]

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Arsenal

• Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta wants to sign Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes. (Fichajes)

• Arsenal have been linked with a move for Real Madrid attacker Endrick who has impressed on his loan spell at Lyon. (Mundo Deportivo)

• Arsenal closely monitoring 14 G/A star who’s available for €40m. Full Story here!

• Arsenal and Chelsea scouts were present to watch Ajax winger Mika Godts. (TEAMtalk)

• Why Wayne Rooney is backing Arsenal to win the Premier League title this season. Read more!

• Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has been spotted attending a Galatasaray game for reported talks over Victor Osimhen.(Serkan Korkmaz)

Barcelona

• Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford is keen for his move to Barcelona to become permanent in this summer’s transfer window. (Matteo Moretto)

Bayern Munich

• Bayern Munich chief Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has spoken out on the Michael Olise transfer saga and more or less completely ruled out selling him for any price. (T-Online)

Burnley

• Burnley are lining up a move for Steven Gerrard as their next manager as they prepare for life in the Championship. (Sun)

Chelsea

• Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is the frontrunner to get the Chelsea job at the end of the season. (Caught Offside)

  

• Paul Merson urges Chelsea to hire Premier League coach who’ll be in-demand. More details!

• Chelsea will contact Porto manager Francesco Farioli again to try to change his mind about taking the job at Stamford Bridge. (Simon Phillips)

• The reasons Chelsea have “made contact” with Andoni Iraola ahead of other manager options. Read more!

Liverpool

• Liverpool defender Andy Robertson is attracting interest from La Liga giants Atletico Madrid. (Daily Record)

• Craig Burley on the future of manager Arne Slot: “I don’t think they’ll run with him next year, I don’t. I think there’s too many questions from up above about spending money again and letting him [spend it].”

• Jamie Carragher on Alexander Isak: “It might work in the future because I don’t think you can judge every signing in the first year. But I’ve said this before; my experience as a Liverpool player, every player who came to the club, I can’t remember one who didn’t really do much in his first season, and then was a revelation afterwards. Isak hasn’t got going. He obviously got the injury, but he didn’t look great to start with.”

• Fabrizio Romano drops big update on Alisson Becker future amid Juventus interest. More details!

Manchester City

• Manchester City director Hugo Viana has met with Eli Junior Kroupi’s agent. (Sacha Tavolieri)

Manchester United

• Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants the club to consider former England boss Gareth Southgate for the Manchester United job. (talkSPORT)

• Manchester United ready to take advantage of Tottenham uncertainty by targeting midfielder. Full Story here!

• Manchester United are ready to make an offer for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba but this time they are likely to face competition from Premier League rivals Chelsea. (Nicolo Schira)

• Fabrizio Romano drops late-night Man Utd midfielder update with three targets addressed. More details!

Newcastle United

• Newcastle United are targeting a move for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson who is set to return from his loan spell at Bayern Munich. (talkSPORT)

  

Real Madrid

• Real Madrid makes final decision on future of Arsenal target. Read more!

• Real Madrid are said to be open to selling Gonzalo Garcia this summer. However, they will only do so if an offer of €60m is received. (Diario Sport)

Tottenham

• Tottenham have confirmed that Xavi Simons has a serious injury that has ended his season and will keep him out of the 2026 World Cup this summer. (Ben Jacobs)

• Tottenham have a strong interest in a potential transfer move for Marcus Rashford as long as they stay up. (Matteo Moretto)

• Tottenham plot surprise move for Englishman with 144 goals & 148 assists but deal hinges on relegation. More details!
  

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Morning folks! Welcome to the latest Daily Briefing - all your essential football headlines delivered ad-free and straight to your inbox as always. Thanks for reading, and enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Pep Guardiola linked with surprise job.

• Man City in talks with new manager.

• Man United winger target available for transfer.

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AC Milan

• AC Milan are ready to let winger Rafael Leao leave the club in the summer transfer window. The Portuguese is on the radar of Manchester United. (Calciomercato)

Arsenal

• Mikel Arteta on the injury suffered by Kai Havertz: “I don’t know how serious it is but should not be too bad. The action, the way he describes it, is not too sharp”.

• Gary Neville points out what Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi is missing from his game. Read more!

• Mikel Arteta is urging Arsenal’s board to do all they can to sign Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes. (Football365)

• Arsenal view Nicolo Tresoldi as a potential replacement of Gabriel Jesus and could attempt to bring the attacker to North London. (TEAMtalk)

• Update on the injury suffered by Eberechi Eze in the win against Newcastle United. More details!

• Arsenal are open to listening to offers for summer signing Viktor Gyokeres this summer. (Indy Kaila)

Atletico Madrid

• Atletico Madrid in talks to sign €46m Premier League midfielder. Full Story here!

• Atletico Madrid host Arsenal at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie this week and they will be without midfielder Pablo Barrios for the crucial match. (Diario AS)

• Julian Brandt has been identified as Atletico Madrid’s primary target to replace Antoine Griezmann. (Marca)

  

Barcelona

• Insider claims Barcelona star has decided to leave this summer. More details!

Chelsea

• Chelsea target ex-manager who left Stamford Bridge after fall-out with club’s hierarchy. Full Story here!

• Chelsea star Cole Palmer is being linked with a move away from the club ahead of the summer transfer window. More details!

• Chelsea managerial target Francesco Farioli rules himself out of taking the job if offered. (Fabrizio Romano)

Manchester City

• Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is being linked with an exit from the club this summer. Sources in Italy are claiming that he could be targeted for the Italian national team job. (Gazetta dello Sport)

• Former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has held talks with Manchester City over becoming the successor of manager Pep Guardiola. (talkSPORT)

• Bernardo Silva is set to receive a number of offers as he moves closer to exit from Manchester City. More here!

Manchester United

• Manchester United are targeting a move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson as they look for a long term replacement for Casemiro. (talkSPORT)

• Jadon Sancho has clearly communicated his willingness to pack his bags and return to his ultimate safe haven: Borussia Dortmund. (Sky Germany)

• Manchester United now want to sign “very valuable” Premier League star on Liverpool radar. Full Story here!

RB Leipzig

• Representatives of the 19-year-old RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande have begun discussions with both Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain, signaling growing interest from two of Europe’s biggest clubs. (Bild)

  

Real Madrid

• Tension between Vinicius Junior and Xabi Alonso started months before infamous El Clasico spat. More details!

• Real Madrid have agreed to sign Nico Paz from Como in the summer transfer window. (Diario AS)

• Real Madrid have been offered the chance to sign Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva. (Diario AS)

Tottenham

• Tottenham star deletes all posts from social media after incident vs Wolves. More details!
  

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Morning folks! Welcome to the latest Daily Briefing - all your essential football headlines delivered ad-free and straight to your inbox as always. Thanks for reading, and enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Arsenal star’s big money move to PSG.

• Real Madrid attacker to Premier League?

• Mo Salah replacement at Liverpool.

Premier League round-up

Arsenal move back to the top of the league

Eberechi Eze’s early strike proved decisive as Arsenal secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Newcastle at the Emirates Stadium. The midfielder found the net in the ninth minute, giving Mikel Arteta’s side the ideal start in a match they badly needed to win after recent setbacks.

Arsenal had come into the game under pressure following consecutive defeats to Bournemouth and Manchester City, which had briefly seen them lose their place at the top of the Premier League table.

Despite the narrow scoreline, Arsenal showed resilience to protect their early lead and keep Newcastle at bay for the remainder of the match. The result allowed Arteta’s side to reclaim top spot from Manchester City

FT Arsenal 1-0 Newcastle United [Pictures from Sky Sports]

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Arsenal

• Arsenal could be handed a major boost for their Champions League semi-final tie with Atletico Madrid as Ademola Lookman is an injury doubt. (Football London)

• Arsenal have already established contact with the representatives of Sporting Lisbon left-back Maxi Araujo ahead of a potential summer transfer. (Record)

• Arsenal “like” Real Madrid star facing transfer uncertainty. More details!

• Julian Brandt will leave Borussia Dortmund at the end of the season, and Arsenal are interested in securing his signature. (TEAMtalk)

• Arsenal chase €50m Brazilian sensation as Man United initiate contact to get deal done. Full Story here!

Barcelona

• Barcelona are making Chelsea forward Joao Pedro one of their top targets for the upcoming summer transfer window. (Fichajes)

Chelsea

• Former Chelsea star William Gallas has told the Blues to snub Cesc Fabregas and appoint Diego Simeone as the club’s next head coach. Full Story here!

Liverpool

• Liverpool are interested in signing Bradley Barcola from PSG as a replacement for Mohamed Salah. (Fichajes)

• Liverpool recruitment chiefs have already held talks with the representatives of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande. (Telegraph)

• Liverpool exploring summer move for Serie A wizard who’s been described as ‘magic in motion’. Read more!

• Liverpool are looking to add more depth to the defensive unit by signing Denzel Dumfries at the end of the season. (Times)

  

• Fabrizio Romano hints at potential Liverpool move for ‘relentless’ full-back. More details!

Manchester United

• Manchester United look to have been handed a boost in their rumoured transfer pursuit of Bayern Munich left-back Alphonso Davies. (Fichajes)

• “The player is still very keen on a move to Manchester United”, confirms Fabrizio Romano. Read more!

• Manchester United are interested in signing Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United at the end of the season. (Fichajes)

• Manchester United are interested in signing the Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni at the end of the season. (Guardian)

• Manchester United ‘have made contact’ over £43m move as Arsenal join hunt. More details!

• ‘We want him’: Euro club confirm they will try to sign £44m Man United man this summer. Full Story here!

Paris Saint-Germain

• PSG growing in confidence in bid to sign €100m Arsenal star. Full Story here!

Real Madrid

• Real Madrid are eyeing up an ambitious transfer move for Bayern Munich superstar and Liverpool target Michael Olise. (Fichajes)

Tottenham

• Tottenham Hotspur are hoping to sign Marcos Senesi on a free transfer at the end of the season. (Florian Plettenberg)

  

• Igor Thiago has done quite well in the Premier League with Brentford this season, and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing him. (TEAMtalk)
  

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Arsenal are keeping an eye on Endrick’s situation as there’s the growing sense that the Real Madrid forward could be available this summer.

Read more

Good morning everyone and welcome to your latest Daily Briefing - all today’s essential transfer news headlines delivered ad-free and straight to your inbox. Thanks for reading, and enjoy! :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Christian Falk is back with his latest EXCLUSIVE column!

• Cesc Fabregas to Chelsea? He’s responded to the links

• Cole Palmer is wanted by Manchester United

• Plus Arsenal in striker talks and much more!

AC Milan

• Fikayo Tomori has made it clear he’s still dreaming of making England’s World Cup squad this summer. (Gazzetta dello Sport)

Arsenal

• Arsenal are preparing to offer €30m for Club Brugge striker Nicolo Tresoldi after positive talks led by director Andrea Berta. (Tuttomercatoweb)

• Arsenal are among the clubs closely monitoring Atalanta midfielder Ederson this summer, along with Manchester United. (Ben Jacobs)

• Arsenal could also be in the mix for this in-demand Borussia Dortmund star - full story here!

Aston Villa

• Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones has been tipped to be a target for Aston Villa if he ends up being made available by the Reds this summer. (Football Insider)

• Morgan Rogers is attracting interest from top Premier League clubs, but also from PSG, as he’s open to a move abroad. (Ben Jacobs)

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Barcelona

• The chances of Lamine Yamal being fully fit for the 2026 World Cup have been described as “very slim” by a leading sports science specialist. (Cadena SER)

Bayern Munich

• Liverpool may have the edge over Bayern Munich in the race to sign Anthony Gordon due to the England international being too expensive for Bayern’s current budget. (Christian Falk, CF Bayern Insider)

• Xavi Simons has admirers at Bayern Munich but any deal this summer will depend on Tottenham’s asking price, which will likely be linked to whether or not they’re relegated. (Christian Falk, CF Bayern Insider)

Chelsea

• Cole Palmer is a target for Manchester United, but there is not currently any indication that he wants to leave Chelsea, while the Blues would also ask for crazy money to sell the player, who is under contract until 2033. (Mark Brus, the Daily Briefing)

• Como president Mirwan Suwarso has publicly stated that manager Cesc Fabregas is free to leave and take over at Chelsea if he wants to amid links with replacing Liam Rosenior at Stamford Bridge. (City AM)

• Fabregas himself has also responded to the Chelsea links - read his quotes here!

• Enzo Maresca will not be returning as Chelsea manager as he’s more likely to be the leading candidate to replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City once that job becomes available. (Fabrizio Romano)

• Chelsea will likely start conversations with representatives of new manager candidates in the next few days. (David Ornstein)

• Chelsea may have found their next wonderkid signing as they compete with Liverpool and Everton for the 18-year-old’s signature - full story here!

Leeds United

• Leeds United have reportedly been approached over the possibility of signing Liverpool playmaker Harvey Elliott this summer. (TEAMtalk)

Liverpool

• Liverpool have been intensifying efforts to sign RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande as he becomes their top priority, but one issue for the Reds is that his current club want to keep him for at least one more season. (TEAMtalk)

• Liverpool may have the edge over Bayern Munich in the race to sign Anthony Gordon due to the England international being too expensive for Bayern’s current budget. (Christian Falk, CF Bayern Insider)

• Rafael Leao is another winger target for Liverpool and he could be free to leave AC Milan on the cheap this summer, with other Premier League clubs also interested. (Daily Mail)

• Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones has been tipped to be a target for Aston Villa if he ends up being made available by the Reds this summer. (Football Insider)

• Liverpool are optimistic about their chances of signing this highly-rated La Liga talent this summer - full story here!

Manchester City

• Manchester City are ready to make a very important financial proposal to Elliot Anderson, but a deal is not advanced yet and Manchester United are still in the mix to sign the Nottingham Forest midfielder. (Fabrizio Romano)

• Enzo Maresca will not be returning as Chelsea manager as he’s more likely to be the leading candidate to replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City once that job becomes available. (Fabrizio Romano)

Manchester United

• Cole Palmer is a target for Manchester United, but there is not currently any indication that he wants to leave Chelsea, while the Blues would also ask for crazy money to sell the player, who is under contract until 2033. (Mark Brus, the Daily Briefing)

• Michael Carrick has hinted he’d “love” to stay on as Manchester United manager permanently once his spell as interim comes to an end - full story here!

• Pierre Kalulu is a target for Manchester United, with a club official heading to Italy to watch the player in action in the next 24 hours. (Tuttomercatoweb)

• Manchester United are among the clubs closely monitoring Atalanta midfielder Ederson this summer, along with Arsenal. (Ben Jacobs)

• Rafael Leao is a target for Manchester United as his AC Milan future looks in serious doubt this summer. (Calciomercato)

• Manchester United face competition from Atletico Madrid for the signing of Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes this summer, with the Spanish club already starting talks. (Ben Jacobs)

Napoli

• Napoli player ratings - Scott McTominay shines again as Antonio Conte’s side thrash Cremonese!

Newcastle United

• Sandro Tonali has made a total U-turn on his future, with the Newcastle United midfielder now expected to favour a return to Serie A over the likes of Manchester United and Manchester City. (Sebastien Vidal)

• Newcastle will be without TWO key players for today’s Premier League game away to Arsenal - full details here!

Real Madrid

• Real Madrid player ratings from last night’s disappointing 1-1 draw with Real Betis!

• Could Jose Mourinho return for a second spell as Real Madrid manager? Full story here!

Tottenham

• Tottenham have reached an agreement in principle with Bournemouth centre-back Marcos Senesi over a free transfer in the summer, though it hinges on Spurs waiting to see if they stay in the Premier League. (Florian Plettenberg)

• Micky van de Ven has put top clubs on alert after deciding that he definitely won’t be signing a new contract with Tottenham. (TEAMtalk)

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The Cole Palmer transfer situation has been making headlines for some time now, and I can confirm that Manchester United have a genuine and concrete interest in the Chelsea star.

As has been widely reported, there is the sense that Palmer would be open to a move back to Manchester, having left United’s rivals City for Chelsea a few years ago.

Read more

Good morning folks and welcome to another Daily Briefing! Thanks as always for reading, and hope you enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Gabriel linked with SHOCK Arsenal exit

• Don’t miss Christian Falk’s latest exclusive column!

• Liverpool among clubs chasing Rafael Leao

• Lamine Yamal injury fears, and much more!

Arsenal

• Real Madrid are eyeing an ambitious move for Arsenal centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes this summer, with the Gunners possibly prepared to sell for around €100-110m. (Sports Boom)

• Manchester City star Bernardo Silva could be an option for Arsenal and Chelsea as he’s set to leave the Etihad Stadium on a free transfer this summer. (TEAMtalk)

Barcelona

• Lamine Yamal has spoken out on his hamstring injury as he’s set to miss the rest of the season with Barcelona, but should make it back in time to play at the World Cup with Spain. (BBC Sport)

• Barcelona and Real Madrid could be two clubs to watch in the race to sign AC Milan star Rafael Leao. (AS)

• Barcelona have held talks over signing talented young Real Sociedad defender Jon Martin, with Deco in touch with his agent in the last week. (Sport)

• Robert Lewandowski has responded to transfer rumours linking him with a free transfer to Juventus this summer - full quotes here!

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Bayern Munich

• Bayern Munich are intent on moving ahead of Premier League clubs in the race to sign Newcastle and England winger Anthony Gordon. (Sky Sport Germany)

• Xavi Simons could be a tempting option for Bayern Munich this summer, but probably only if Tottenham get relegated and his price tag drops. (Christian Falk, CF Bayern Insider)

• The potential signing of Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon has been approved by Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany. (Christian Falk, CF Bayern Insider)

Chelsea

• Chelsea are set to go up against other top clubs for the potential transfer of AZ Alkmaar midfield wonderkid Kees Smit, who could be available for €60-80m this summer. (CaughtOffside)

• Andoni Iraola is among the candidates being looked at by Chelsea as they prepare to hire a new manager to replace Liam Rosenior. (RMC Sport)

• Chelsea are set to target a summer move for Brentford striker Igor Thiago this summer, but they face competition from Tottenham and Newcastle. (TEAMtalk)

• Manchester City star Bernardo Silva could be an option for Arsenal and Chelsea as he’s set to leave the Etihad Stadium on a free transfer this summer. (TEAMtalk)

Juventus

• Alisson Becker is a target for Juventus, but their approach for the Liverpool goalkeeper has left the Reds frustrated. (Calciomercato)

Liverpool

• Liverpool are one of the clubs exploring a potential £60m transfer for AC Milan forward Rafael Leao, who is seen as an excellent value option on the market. (Daily Mail)

• Personal terms are not expected to be an issue for Liverpool in their bid to sign €100m RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande this summer. (TEAMtalk)

• Liverpool are eyeing a surprise move for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford this summer amid doubts over Alisson Becker’s future. (Goal)

Manchester City

• Manchester City now look to be in pole position to sign Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson ahead of the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal. (Sky Sports)

• Manchester City star Bernardo Silva could be an option for Arsenal and Chelsea as he’s set to leave the Etihad Stadium on a free transfer this summer. (TEAMtalk)

Manchester United

• Manchester United are set to go up against other top clubs for the potential transfer of AZ Alkmaar midfield wonderkid Kees Smit, who could be available for €60-80m this summer. (CaughtOffside)

• Micky van de Ven is on Manchester United’s radar as his future could be in doubt this summer if Tottenham end up being relegated. (the Athletic)

• Manchester United are one of the clubs exploring a potential £60m transfer for AC Milan forward Rafael Leao, who is seen as an excellent value option on the market. (Daily Mail)

• Manchester United have officially decided that Bruno Fernandes is not for sale this summer. (Sun)

• Jadon Sancho has held positive talks over a return to Borussia Dortmund, with a deal advancing for the Manchester United winger to join the Bundesliga giants for a third spell. (Sky Sport Germany)

• Manchester United are interested in signing Sporting Lisbon defender Maximiliano Araujo, who is available for around €50m this summer. (Sport Witness)

• Manchester United could be ready to break their transfer record for this world class playmaker - full story here!

Newcastle United

• Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing Nicolas Seiwald from RB Leipzig at the end of the season. (Fussball Daten)

PSG

• Paris Saint-Germain have made contact over a potential transfer move for talented young West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes. (Foot Mercato)

Real Madrid

• Real Madrid are eyeing an ambitious move for Arsenal centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes this summer, with the Gunners possibly prepared to sell for around €100-110m. (Sports Boom)

• Real Madrid and Barcelona could be two clubs to watch in the race to sign AC Milan star Rafael Leao. (AS)

Tottenham

• Tottenham are closing in on the appointment of former Borussia Dortmund chief Sebastian Kehl as their new sporting director. (Ben Jacobs)

• Xavi Simons could be a tempting option for Bayern Munich this summer, but probably only if Tottenham get relegated and his price tag drops. (Christian Falk, CF Bayern Insider)

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Morning folks! Welcome to the latest Daily Briefing - all your essential football headlines delivered ad-free and straight to your inbox as always. Thanks for reading, and enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Liam Rosenior replacement identified.

• Arsenal targeting Real Madrid midfielder.

• Liverpool star approves move to Serie A.

The Daily Briefing newsletter is now FREE to read - with all your essential football headlines delivered ad-free straight to your inbox seven mornings a week.

UPGRADE to a paid subscription to receive exclusive in-depth transfer news, comment, and analysis from our experts!

Subscribe now

Arsenal

• Arsenal have been in touch with those close to Real Madrid star Arda Guler to see if there’s any scope for discussing a transfer this summer. (Caught Offside)

• Arsenal face fierce competition for 28-G/A target who’s tearing defenses apart. More details!

Chelsea

• OFFICIAL: Chelsea have sacked manager Liam Rosenior after a poor run of form. Read more!

• Chelsea are targeting a move for Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann. (TEAMtalk)

• Chelsea now leading candidates to hire world class Spanish coach to replace Liam Rosenior. More details!

• Chelsea have joined Liverpool in the frantic race to sign West Ham United’s talismanic forward Jarrod Bowen. (Football Insider)

• The real truth behind Liam Rosenior’s Chelsea severance package has emerged. More details!

• Chelsea and Manchester United are both among clubs monitoring Dutch midfielder Kees Smit. (Caught Offside)

• Premier League boss on Chelsea shortlist as they look for a new manager. Full Story here!

Crystal Palace

• Crystal Palace eye ambitious move for table-topping manager to replace Oliver Glasner. Full Story here!

Juventus

• Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has supposedly already said ‘yes’ to a summer transfer to Juventus, with talks between the clubs expected in the coming days. (Alfredo Pedulla)

  

Liverpool

• Jamie Carragher on the future of Arne Slot: “Arne Slot’s job has been spoken about all season. We’ve spoken about it a lot on Monday Night Football. There’s probably a split in the Liverpool supporters over whether he should stay or go, but the noises I am hearing is Slot will be the Liverpool manager next season if they can secure Champions League qualification, which they look like doing right now.”

• How Liverpool plan to bankroll squad rebuild under Arne Slot. More details!

• Liverpool could be tempted to listen to offers for midfielder Alexis Mac Allister in the summer transfer window. (Football Insider)

• Transfer insider claims Liverpool have set a target date for completion of Yan Diomande swoop. Full Story here!

• Mohamed Salah will leave Liverpool at the end of the season, and they want Rafael Leao to replace him. (Fichajes)

• Jamie Carragher says Liverpool need three signings as Mo Salah replacement claim made. Full Story here!

• Liverpool plot move for £35m French playmaker as Aston Villa join transfer hunt. Full Story here!

Manchester City

• Manchester City inquiry for Bayern Munich midfielder Aleksandar Pavlović rejected by the German club. (Christian Falk)

Manchester United

• Manchester United are reportedly still interested in a potential transfer deal for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos, while Romeo Lavia could also be available this summer. (Simon Phillips)

• Agreement reached: Manchester United make breakthrough in deal for midfielder. Read more!

• Fabrizio Romano on Manchester United interest in Aurelien Tchouameni: “There are some players they really like. Tchouameni is for sure appreciated, but at the moment from Real Madrid, they are not receiving any indication of doors open about a potential exit in summer transfer window.”

• Manchester United are interested in signing Benfica’s Richard Rios. (Caught Offside)

  

• Manchester Uunited preparing onslaught for ‘future England captain’. Full Story here!

• Manchester United have made it clear to Bruno Fernandes that he is not for sale in the summer. (Sun)

Newcastle United

• Newcastle United are interested in signing Nicolas Seiwald from RB Leipzig at the end of the season. (FussballDaten)

Real Madrid

• Real Madrid are open to selling starter in the summer transfer window. More details!

Tottenham

• Tottenham are looking to add more creativity and technical ability in the middle of the park, and they have identified Ibrahim Maza as a target. (FussballDaten)
  

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