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

Today’s top stories:

• Arsenal target move for world class attacker.

• Man United want Premier League duo.

• Hugo Ekitike injury update.

Champions League round-up

Liverpool knocked out by PSG again

Ousmane Dembélé scored twice late on as Paris Saint-Germain secured a 4-0 aggregate win over Liverpool to reach the Champions League semifinals.

Liverpool’s hopes of an Anfield comeback faded after a second-half penalty was overturned by VAR, and Dembélé’s late goals ensured PSG comfortably finished the job.

FT Liverpool 0-2 PSG (Agg: 0-4) [Pictures from TNT Sports]

Atletico Madrid survive scare against Barcelona

Atlético Madrid reached the Champions League semifinals with a 3-2 aggregate win over Barcelona despite losing 2-1 on the night.

Barcelona scored twice early through Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres, but Ademola Lookman pulled one back for Atlético, who held on, helped by Eric García’s late red card, to seal progression.

FT Atletico Madrid 1-2 Barcelona (Agg: 3-2) [Pictures from TNT Sports]

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Arsenal

• Arsenal are looking to sign Gonzalo Garcia from Real Madrid at the end of the season. (Fichajes)

• Arsenal willing to sell Jesus and Havertz to make way for €120 million attacker. Full Story here!

• Paul Scholes pinpoints what Arsenal are missing this season. Read more!

Aston Villa

• Aston Villa join two other Premier League clubs in chase for unwanted Chelsea man valued at €15m. Full Story here!

Atletico Madrid

• Atletico Madrid drop interest in possible Barcelona exit. More details!

Bayern Munich

• Bayern Munich launch audacious pursuit of attacker wanted by Arsenal and Liverpool. Full Story here!

Chelsea

• Chelsea now looking at 24-year-old UCL centre back with negotiable €60m release clause. More details!

• Chelsea are one of three Premier League clubs monitoring Newcastle United midfielder Lewis Miley. (TEAMtalk)

  

Liverpool

• Ibrahima Konate has been linked with the move away from Liverpool at the end of the season. However, the Reds are now closing on an agreement with the defender. (RMC)

• Bazoumana Toure has been linked with a move away from Hoffenheim at the end of the season, and Liverpool are keen on him. (Sky Germany)

• 25-year-old German international midfielder Angelo Stiller has emerged as a premier target for Liverpool. (Football Insider)

• Andy Robertson on his talks with the club regarding his future: “It’s not like I’ve knocked back a contract or anything, there was no contract on the table. It was a conversation we all had. It was a conversation of ‘okay, this is what I want to do, I want to play and I believe I’ve still got the ability to play’. I think I have showed that this season.”

• Sky Sports confirm summer transfer is on & Liverpool could complete £43.5m steal. More details!

• What Fabrizio Romano heard about Anthony Gordon transfer is excellent news for Liverpool. Read more!

• Latest update on the injury suffered by Hugo Ekitike against Paris Saint-Germain. It could be seriously bad news for the Reds. More details!

• Liverpool can sign Nico Schlotterbeck from Borussia Dortmund but this is what they must do. Read more!

Manchester United

• Noah Sadiki has impressed with Sunderland in the Premier League since joining the club, and top clubs are now monitoring his situation. Manchester United are one of the clubs monitoring him. (TEAMtalk)

• Man United and Chelsea circle as Spurs face losing key star amid relegation fears. Full Story here!

• Maghnes Akliouche could be on his way to the Premier League during the summer transfer window, and Manchester United are keeping tabs on him. (Football Insider)

• Manchester United man with six starts this season will be INEOS’ first sale of the summer. More details!

• Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi will be a free agent at the end of the season, and he is a target for Manchester United and Tottenham. (talkSPORT)

  

Newcastle United

• Newcastle United prepare for the exit of trio at the end of the season. More details!

• Eddie Howe remains fundamentally involved in the club’s overarching recruitment strategy despite rumours of his job being unsafe at St. James’ Park. (iNews)

Wrexham

• Wrexham are currently leading the race to sign Leicester City midfielder Harry Winks ahead of the upcoming transfer window. (SportsBoom)
  

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

Today’s top stories:

• Liverpool face blow to sign Salah replacement.

• Bayern Munich monitoring Chelsea defender.

• Man United target Newcastle United star.

Premier League round-up

Man Utd stunned at home by Leeds United

Noah Okafor etched his name into club history with a brilliant brace at Old Trafford, helping Leeds United secure their first Premier League victory over Manchester United in more than 23 years.

It marked only Michael Carrick’s second defeat since taking charge in January and his first loss at home, as Manchester United’s push for Champions League qualification suffered a setback against a relegation-threatened side that has also reached the FA Cup semi-finals.

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

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Arsenal

• Michael Owen backs Arsenal to win the Premier League title: “I think Manchester City have got the slightly more difficult games. They’ve got Bournemouth away, they’ve got Everton away. They are two tough games. However, when you look at this weekend we thought Arsenal at home to Bournemouth and City away at Chelsea. Everything is pointing to City, the momentum, the record of Pep Guardiola, the experience of the players, the current form, City at home against Arsenal. It’s the toss of the coin but I think Arsenal might just nick it.”

• Despite overseeing a dramatic cultural and tactical transformation at the Emirates Stadium, Mikel Arteta’s position as Arsenal manager is under threat. Cesc Fabregas has been identified as his potential replacement. (Mundo Deportivo)

• Oscar Mingueza is set to leave Celta Vigo at the end of the season, and a move to the Premier League could be a possibility. Arsenal are interested in a move for the La Liga defender. (TEAMtalk)

• Arsenal and Liverpool battle for teen sensation from English rivals. More details!

Bayern Munich

• Bayern Munich may not be actively searching for a new central defender at present, but the Bundesliga champions are keeping a close eye on Chelsea youngster Josh Acheampong as part of their long-term scouting strategy. (Christian Falk)

Chelsea

• Chelsea lead race for €50m “complete midfielder”, face Tottenham competition. Full Story here!

• Chelsea transfer target speaks out about summer links with The Blues. More details!

Everton

• Everton looking to sign highly-talented €50 million-rated star from Arsenal. More details!

Liverpool

• Liverpool are unlikely to complete the signing of their dream Mohamed Salah replacement and that is Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise. (Football Insider)

• Representatives from both Liverpool and Manchester United were in attendance during Leipzig’s gritty 1-0 victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach to scout left-back David Raum. (TEAMtalk)

  

• Transfer insider: £60m could be enough for Liverpool to snap up coveted midfield ‘diamond’. More details!

Manchester City

• Manchester City star Bernardo Silva is wanted by Barcelona, Juventus, Galatasaray and Saudi clubs as he prepares to leave the club in the summer. (Nicolo Schira)

• Wayne Rooney believes Manchester City have advantage in Premier League title race: “I think City will have the edge on that, just purely the manager and players they’ve got. They will be able to stay a little calmer than the Arsenal players.”

Manchester United

• Manchester United plot summer move for ‘unpredictable’ teenage sensation. Full Story here!

• Manchester United are confident Bruno Fernandes will remain at Old Trafford beyond this summer, despite continued speculation linking the Portuguese midfielder with a lucrative move abroad. (Fabrizio Romano)

• Manchester United and Chelsea are interested in signing the Bayern Munich midfielder Aleksandar Pavlovic at the end of the season but they have been informed he is not available for transfer. (TEAMtalk)

• Manchester United are interested in signing the Newcastle United midfielder Lewis Miley at the end of the season. (TEAMtalk)

• Manchester United and Tottenham are interested in signing the South Korean international striker Hyeon-Gyu Oh. (TurkiyeGazetesi)

• Manchester United and Liverpool target move for Sporting midfielder Morten Hjulmand. (Caught Offside)

• £80m ‘nightmare’ ready to join Man Utd on one condition. Full Story here!

Newcastle United

• Newcastle United have made Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte their priority transfer. (Football Insider)

  

Real Madrid

• Premier League clubs on alert as Real Madrid take decision to sell forward this summer. More details!

Tottenham

• Tottenham are interested in signing Bart Verbruggen from Brighton at the end of the season. (TEAMtalk)

• Christ Inao Oulai has done well for the Turkish outfit Trabzonspor since joining the club last summer, and he is attracting interest from Tottenham. (SportsBooms)
  

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Chelsea have had no shortage of noise around them this season, but Liam Rosenior’s decision to drop Enzo Fernandez for two matches has changed the tone of the story. What looked like one of those familiar end-of-season rumours now feels more serious because it has produced a real disciplinary response from inside the club.

According to Yahoo Sports’ April 3 report and a Reuters-backed SuperSport report from the same day, Rosenior believed Fernandez had crossed a line with comments that cast doubt on his future. That matters because it is no longer just a player talking loosely on international duty. It is now a club issue, publicly acknowledged and impossible to wave away as background noise.

Why This Feels Bigger Than a Usual Transfer Hint

Players speak carelessly all the time. Managers usually smooth it over, agents float explanations and the cycle moves on. Chelsea’s reaction tells us this situation has landed differently. The problem is not simply that Fernandez spoke warmly about Madrid or about Spain as a place to live. The problem is that he did so while Chelsea are still trying to hold together a coherent project under a relatively new manager and in the middle of a season that has already felt fragile in stretches.

The Daily Briefing has already charted the wider turbulence around the club in its January report on Enzo Maresca’s departure, and it also flagged the possibility of upheaval around the midfielder himself in its March 19 piece on Chelsea planning for a future without Fernandez. Put together, those earlier signals now look more significant. This no longer feels like isolated noise. It looks more like a club trying to manage instability in public.

A Leadership Issue, Not Just a Selection One

What makes the episode especially damaging is Fernandez’s status inside the dressing room. Chelsea can survive transfer speculation around almost anyone. It is much harder to ignore when one of the team’s leadership figures appears to be mentally opening the door to a move elsewhere. Rosenior may have intended the punishment to reassert standards, but the act itself also confirms that the club felt a public line had been crossed. Once that happens, the story inevitably becomes larger than two missed matches.

That is where the situation becomes awkward for Chelsea. If Fernandez returns and performs brilliantly, the club may be able to move forward. But even then, the episode will not disappear. It has introduced another layer of uncertainty around a project that already feels as though it is being assessed week to week rather than season to season. For supporters, that creates the sense that the club are still reacting to events rather than controlling them.

Control Matters When Pressure Builds

That is true outside football as well, and the online casino world offers a useful comparison. In that space, players are not simply chasing constant action; they are often weighing timing, judgement and risk from one decision to the next, especially in formats where a rushed move can change the feel of a session immediately. That helps explain why established names such as Spin Casino continue to hold attention in the category. A trusted online casino is not only about access to games, but about operating in a setting where control and decision-making matter as much as excitement.

Chelsea are dealing with their own version of that now. One set of comments, one disciplinary call and suddenly the question is no longer talent, but whether the club still looks in control of the situation.

Chelsea Need a Football Answer Quickly

Ultimately, the easiest way for Chelsea to quieten this story is the oldest one in football: win and look convincing while doing it. But discipline alone will not settle the deeper question that now hangs over Fernandez’s place in the project. If the relationship between player and club is still sound, Chelsea need to show it. If it is not, this punishment may come to be seen less as a firm corrective and more as the moment a summer rumour became something much harder to contain.

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

Today’s top stories:

• Man United edge closer to midfielder deal.

• Arsenal & Chelsea battle for Newcastle star.

• Liverpool want Premier League youngster.

Premier League round-up

Spurs edge closer to relegation

Roberto De Zerbi’s first match as Tottenham manager ended in disappointment as Spurs suffered a 1-0 defeat to Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

Tottenham thought they had won a penalty in the 21st minute, but the decision was overturned, while Brian Brobbey, Richarlison and Dominic Solanke all came close in an open first half.

Sunderland secured the victory early in the second half when Nordi Mukiele’s deflected effort found the net, giving Regis Le Bris’ side back-to-back league wins.

FT Sunderland 1-0 Tottenham [Pictures from Sky Sports]

Man City put pressure on Arsenal with statement win

Manchester City strengthened their Premier League title charge with an impressive 3-0 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, reducing the gap at the summit to six points.

Nico O’Reilly kept up his fine scoring run by opening the scoring early in the second half, before Marc Guéhi netted his first league goal for the club.

Jérémy Doku then capitalised on a costly mistake from Moisés Caicedo to seal a convincing win and pile further misery on Chelsea.

FT Chelsea 0-3 Man City [Pictures from Sky Sports]

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Arsenal

• Arsenal, along with Premier League rivals Chelsea, are seriously interested in signing Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall. (Caught Offside)

• Fabrizio Romano confirms interest in Arsenal youngster Ethan Nwaneri: “Dortmund wanted (Nwaneri) on a permanent transfer from Arsenal already one year ago, when Arsenal were negotiating a new contract with Nwaneri. At the end they were successful in reaching an agreement. There were Chelsea very interested and Borussia Dortmund – these two clubs. So interest especially from Borussia Dortmund remains very strong in Nwaneri. There are several clubs around Europe attentive to the situation.”

Atletico Madrid

• Jan Oblak and Johnny Cardoso have resumed training before facing Barcelona in the Champions League this week. (Sport)

• Atletico Madrid asked Barcelona about signing Marc Bernal in the January transfer window but the youngster is in the future plans of Barca boss Hansi Flick. (Mundo Deportivo)

Barcelona

• Barcelona have drawn up plans to sign a new central defender during this summer’s upcoming transfer window and Jhon Lucumi is Bologna is on the list. (Sport)

Bournemouth

• Bournemouth central defender Marcos Senesi may reportedly be closer to choosing his next club as he’s in talks with Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham. (Matteo Moretto)

  

Chelsea

• Fabrizio Romano gives Chelsea’s stance on sacking Liam Rosenior. Full Story here!

• Chelsea “enter the race” for midfielder with €50m asking price wanted by Man United and Real Madrid. More details!

Liverpool

• Liverpool and Chelsea are among the clubs preparing to make a move for Bournemouth’s Eli Junior Kroupi. (Caught Offside)

Manchester City

• Manchester City fan becomes viral sensation with Arsenal-branded bottle at Stamford Bridge. More details!

Manchester United

• Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has provided a massive boost to the Old Trafford faithful by confirming the club is nearing a breakthrough in contract negotiations with “phenomenal” midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. (Fabrizio Romano)

• Michael Carrick has advised Manchester United to sign Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers. (TEAMtalk)

• Man United hatch plan involving three first-team stars to land £100m-rated “elite player”. Full Story here!

• Man United lead Arsenal in the race for £69m star with “real talent with real potential”. More details!

• Man United have a three-man shortlist to replace Marcus Rashford in the summer. That shortlist includes: Yan Diomande, Iliman Ndiaye and Morgan Rogers. (Sky Sports)

  

Newcastle United

• Newcastle United have told clubs interested in Sandro Tonali that they must declare their intentions early in the transfer window and be prepared to meet a substantial valuation of around £100 million. (i Paper)

Real Madrid

• Real Madrid add new name to managerial shortlist as Alvaro Arbeloa doubts continue. More details!

Tottenham

• Tottenham Hotspur are looking to improve their defensive unit with the signing of Italian defender Giorgio Scalvini. (TEAMtalk)

• Tottenham are interested in signing the Belgian midfielder Arthur Vermeeren at the end of the season. (FussballDaten)
  

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Liverpool and Chelsea are among the clubs preparing to make a move for one of the most exciting young talents in Europe this summer.

Read more

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

Today’s top stories:

• Manchester United eye in-form Premier League stars

• Arsenal and Man City battle to sign free agent

• Liverpool close to important deal, & much more!

Premier League round-up

Arsenal slip up in the title race

Arsenal were stunned by Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium yesterday to suffer a major blow in the Premier League title race.

Eli Junior Kroupi punished some sloppy defending to make it 1-0 early on, though Viktor Gyokeres brought the Gunners level from the penalty spot later in the first half.

Still, Bournemouth were the better team and put together a lovely move, finished off by Alex Scott, to re-take the lead in the 75th minute.

Arsenal remain nine points clear at the top of the table, but Manchester City have two games in hand, and host the Gunners at the Etihad Stadium next week.

FT Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth [Pictures from TNT Sports]

Liverpool score two stunners to beat Fulham

Liverpool fans haven’t had a lot to celebrate this season, but they were treated to two delightful goals in yesterday’s win over Fulham.

First, Reds wonderkid Rio Ngumoha cut inside before curling in a stunning finish into the far corner, and Mohamed Salah then produced a quality first-time shot into the back of the net.

The result boosts Liverpool’s hopes of finishing in the top five and securing Champions League football for next season.

FT Liverpool 2-0 Fulham [Pictures from Sky Sports]

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Arsenal

• Anthony Gordon would be tempted by a transfer to Arsenal this summer, while Newcastle might come under financial pressure to sell the England winger. (CaughtOffside)

• Arsenal are up against Chelsea for the potential transfer of highly-rated Monaco attacker Maghnes Akliouche. (Media Foot)

• Arsenal could also be one of a number of clubs in the mix for Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers this summer, along with Chelsea, Manchester United, and PSG. (Sky Sports)

• Oscar Mingueza has been offered to Arsenal by intermediaries as he is set to become a free agent this summer, with the Gunners tempted to sign the versatile Celta Vigo defender. (TEAMtalk)

Barcelona

• Barcelona player ratings as they take a step closer to winning La Liga with a derby victory over Espanyol!

• However, Barca could have fitness concerns ahead of their crucial Champions League quarter-final second leg against Atletico Madrid. (Football Espana)

Bayern Munich

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

Chelsea

• It’s increasingly hard to see Enzo Fernandez staying at Chelsea this summer amid links with Real Madrid and PSG. (Football Insider)

• Chelsea are looking closely at West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes as a replacement for Enzo Fernandez if he leaves this summer. (Fichajes)

• Chelsea are also looking for a statement signing in attack and are preparing a blockbuster move for this La Liga sensation - full details here!

• This Premier League manager has responded to talk of Chelsea targeting one of his most important players - read more here!

Liverpool

• Liverpool are at the ‘final stages’ of sealing a new contract for Ibrahima Konate as he now looks increasingly likely to stay at Anfield. (Fabrizio Romano)

• Tottenham have a verbal agreement with Liverpool left-back Andrew Robertson over a free transfer when his contract expires this summer. (Fabrizio Romano)

• Rio Ferdinand has heaped praise onto Liverpool wonderkid Rio Ngumoha after his performance against Fulham - more here!

Manchester City

• Manchester City are one of the clubs showing a strong interest in Celta Vigo full-back Oscar Mingueza as he’s set to become a free agent this summer. (TEAMtalk)

• Pep Guardiola has responded to Bernardo Silva being linked with Juventus as he nears the end of his contract this summer - full quotes here!

Manchester United

• One interesting piece of World Cup news this summer could be Manchester United using the tournament to their advantage in the race to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest ahead of rivals Manchester City. (Sun)

• Manchester United are intensifying efforts to sign a top attacking player this summer, with Yan Diomande and Iliman Ndiaye emerging as their main targets. (Sky Sports)

• Morgan Rogers is also emerging as one of Manchester United’s priorities in attack, with the Red Devils possibly prepared to break the bank for him this summer. (Fichajes)

• Bruno Fernandes is increasingly tempted to stay at Manchester United now that they’re highly likely to qualify for the Champions League, but Saudi interest remains. (Fabrizio Romano)

• Manchester United are currently ahead of Arsenal in the race for this €80m transfer - full story here!

• Could Manchester United make a surprise signing to replace Luke Shaw this summer? Full story here!

Newcastle United

• Newcastle United are exploring a move to bring former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez back to the Premier League from Saudi club Al Hilal. (Fichajes)

Real Madrid

• Real Madrid could be back in for Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck this summer, with the Germany international having a release clause for a few select clubs, one of which is Real Madrid. (AS)

Tottenham

• Tottenham have a verbal agreement with Liverpool left-back Andrew Robertson over a free transfer when his contract expires this summer. (Fabrizio Romano)

• Tottenham have a serious interest in Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, who is known to be a big fan of manager Roberto De Zerbi from their time together at the Amex Stadium. (TEAMtalk)

• Celtic star Benjamin Nygren is a top target for Tottenham this summer, though they could face competition from Brighton and Bournemouth. (Sports Boom)

• Tottenham have been dragged into the bottom three after West Ham’s win over Wolves, with a huge task awaiting Roberto De Zerbi in his first game as Spurs manager today.

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Good morning everyone and welcome to another Daily Briefing! Thanks as always for reading, and hope you enjoy today’s post! :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Manager involved in talks with Man United.

• Arsenal ready to sell two important players.

• Chelsea could sell key midfielder in summer.

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Arsenal

• Despite securing both Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly to long-term contracts just last summer, Arsenal are now actively preparing to listen to offers for the prized academy graduates. (BBC)

• Arsenal’s relentless ambition to refine their attacking ranks has increased with Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez firmly on their radar. They may have to offload Viktor Gyokeres or Kai Havertz if they want to sign Alvarez. (BBC)

• Arsenal are closely monitoring Newcastle United trio Tino Livramento, Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon. (BBC)

Aston Villa

• Aston Villa join race for 23-year-old Man City star wanted by top Premier League clubs. Full Story here!

Atalanta

• Atalanta midfielder Ederson has rejected the approach of Manchester United and Arsenal as he dreams of playing for Atletico Madrid. (AS)

Barcelona

• Future of Barcelona veteran hinges on teammate’s transfer decision. Full Story here!

Chelsea

• Enzo Fernandez and his representatives have apologised to Chelsea after recent developments. (Sky Sports)

• Chelsea “enter the race” for midfielder with €50m asking price wanted by Man United and Real Madrid. More details!

• Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers valuation revealed as Chelsea renew interest. Full Story here!

  

• Chelsea could put midfielder up for sale if they fail to qualify for the Champions League. More details!

Liverpool

• Fenway Sports Group (FSG) have complete confidence in the ability of manager Arne Slot to lead the club. (Telegraph)

• Agent of high-profile manager spotted watching PSG vs Liverpool as Slot faces uncertain future. More details!

• Arne Slot on his Liverpool future: “I have said many times I feel a lot of support from the owners, as from Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards as well. As weird as it might sound, I also feel the support of the fans.”

• Arne Slot responds to Liverpool fan protest ahead of Fulham clash. More details!

• David Ornstein names club leading race for Andy Robertson transfer. Full Story here!

Manchester United

• Manchester United are in the race to sign ‘new Kevin De Bruyne’ but face severe Premier League competition. Full Story here!

• Xabi Alonso has held talks with Manchester United, along with other clubs who are looking for a new manager. (Football Transfers)

• Manchester United make Bundesliga midfielder their priority ahead of summer transfer window. More details!

• Manchester United are prepared to sanction his departure of Joshua Zirkzee at the end of the 2025/26 campaign but only on the strict condition that the club’s recruitment department successfully secures a high-caliber replacement first. (Football Insider)

• Boost for Man Utd as EPL rivals open to selling ‘unbelievable’ full-back wanted by INEOS. Full Story here!

• Man Utd target signs new deal to become one of ‘best paid’ players at his club. More details!

Newcastle United

• Newcastle United attacker Anthony Gordon is attracted by the idea of playing for Arsenal. (Caught Offside)

  

RB Leipzig

• Top Premier League clubs are on alert after finding out about the availability of RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba. (TEAMtalk)

Real Madrid

• Real Madrid defender moves to deny rift with manager Alvaro Arbeloa. More details!

Tottenham

• Injury setback for Tottenham star could potentially rule him out of the 2026 World Cup. More details!
  

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Good morning everyone and welcome to another Daily Briefing! Thanks as always for reading, and hope you enjoy today’s post! :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Liverpool close to reaching agreement.

• Arsenal target ambitious move for PSG star.

• Man United make decision on 30-year-old.

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

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Arsenal

• Rio Ferdinand names surprise Arsenal player crucial to their title chances. More details!

• Arsenal have recently taken steps to explore a potential transfer move for Paris Saint-Germain star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. (Caught Offside)

• Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United are closely monitoring Bazoumana Toure, and they could look to make a move in the summer. (FussballDaten)

• Arsenal are now interested in signing the Spanish defender Jacobo Ramon from the Italian club Como. (Fichajes)

• Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea are keen on Morgan Rogers, and they would have to pay over £80 million in order to get the deal done. (Times)

Aston Villa

• Aston Villa plot summer swoop for West Ham United star Crysencio Summerville. (Football Insider)

Barcelona

• Barcelona and Atletico Madrid lead race to sign Premier League defender. Full Story here!

Borussia Dortmund

• Borussia Dortmund are evaluating the possibility of bringing Jadon Sancho back to the club for a third time, as uncertainty continues to surround the winger’s long-term future at Manchester United. (Telegraph)

  

Chelsea

• Chelsea set sights on Premier League trio as transfer plans explained. Full Story here!

• Chelsea are looking to sign the Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado at the end of the season. (Fichajes)

Everton

• Everton want to keep Jack Grealish at the club after his loan spell from Manchester City this season. (Athletic)

Liverpool

• Marco Materazzi tips Enzo Maresca for the Liverpool job: ‘Can Enzo Maresca make Real Madrid into champions again? Yes, why not! He speaks very good Spanish because he was at Sevilla, but I think Maresca also has a good opportunity to get a job in the Premier League for next season too. Newcastle United? Not for me. Manchester United would be a good move for Maresca but he’s too connected to Manchester City to make that happen. I think Liverpool would be the best fit for Enzo Maresca. He is the perfect coach to lead a rebuild at Liverpool to create a new vision for the team.’

• Liverpool confident of securing crucial agreement now. More details!

• Liverpool interested in £66 million Premier League star to replace Mohamed Salah. Full Story here!

• OFFICIAL: Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson is set to leave the club at the end of the season. Read more here!

• Steven Gerrard names two players Liverpool should target after Salah exit. More details!

Manchester City

• Manchester City joined a growing list of top European clubs monitoring highly rated German teenager Kennet Eichhorn, as the race intensifies to secure one of the country’s most promising young prospects. (Fabrizio Romano)

Manchester United

• Man United are preparing to part ways with Andre Onana this summer, even though the Cameroon international remains eager to prove himself at Old Trafford. (Daily Mail)

• Fabrizio Romano confirms the two signings Man Utd will absolutely, 100% make this summer. Full Story here!

• Man Utd set to shun Bruno Fernandes transfer request for two reasons. More details!

Newcastle United

• Newcastle United’s relentless search for attacking reinforcements has reportedly led them to the Spanish capital, with Real Madrid’s highly-rated forward Gonzalo Garcia emerging as a serious summer target. (TEAMtalk)

  

Tottenham

• Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the Marseille midfielder Arthur Vermeeren. (SportsBoom)

• Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea are interested in signing Ian Subiabre from River Plate. (Hernan Castillo)

West Ham United

• Midfielder Mateus Fernandes, who has been linked with a move to Manchester United and Manchester City, is considered unsellable by West Ham United. (TEAMtalk)

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Arsenal have recently taken steps to explore a potential transfer move for Paris Saint-Germain star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and they’re not the only ones.

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Good morning everyone and welcome to another Daily Briefing! Thanks as always for reading, and hope you enjoy today’s post! :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Chelsea eye surprise Newcastle raid!

• Arsenal step up pursuit of elite young CB

• Latest on Elliot Anderson transfer saga

• Plus Liverpool in talks to sign free agent, and more!

Champions League round-up

PSG dominate Liverpool at the Parc des Princes

Paris Saint-Germain got the win they were expecting against this out-of-form Liverpool team, and the only disappointment will be that they’ll feel they could’ve won by a larger margin.

Desire Doue scored via a deflection early on, before Khvicha Kvaratskhelia made it 2-0 with a stunning run and neat finish to maintain his fine recent form.

Liverpool barely offered anything and will need to be much better at Anfield next week if they are to have any hope of a comeback.

FT PSG 2-0 Liverpool [Pictures from TNT Sports]

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Atletico Madrid stun ten-man Barcelona

Atletico Madrid produced a superb display to stun Barcelona with a 2-0 win at the Nou Camp in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.

Julian Alvarez scored an absolute beauty of a free-kick in the first half, before Alexander Sorloth finished a good team move to score the second.

Barca would have been the slight favourites for this tie, but Pau Cubarsi’s red card hurt them and they’ve got it all to do in the second leg next week.

FT Barcelona 0-2 Atletico Madrid [Pictures from TNT Sports]

Arsenal

• Arsenal are looking at Jacobo Ramon as well as Victor Valdepenas as they seek to add an elite young centre-back to their squad this summer. (Mark Brus, the Daily Briefing)

• Arsenal are also eyeing a new signing at left-back and could move for this Premier League star - more info here!

Aston Villa

• This Aston Villa star is heading for the exit door and his next club has been revealed - full story here!

• Aston Villa are planning to make an offer for Leeds United defender Pascal Struijk as he looks set to leave Elland Road this summer. (TEAMtalk)

Barcelona

• Barcelona player ratings after a hugely disappointing 2-0 defeat at home to Atletico Madrid!

Borussia Dortmund

• Jadon Sancho will leave Manchester United as a free agent this summer and is set to take a potentially significant pay cut, with Borussia Dortmund increasingly keen to bring him in for a third spell. (Christian Falk, CaughtOffside)

Chelsea

• Chelsea are among the clubs exploring Marcos Senesi as a potential transfer target for this summer as he’s set to leave Bournemouth on a free. (Mark Brus, CaughtOffside)

• Chelsea are also keen on Jacobo Ramon as a centre-back target, but Arsenal will rival the Blues for the Como youngster’s signature. (Mark Brus, the Daily Briefing)

• Nick Woltemade to Chelsea could be a surprise story to look out for as the Blues have a long-standing interest in the Newcastle forward, with Liam Delap possibly set to move in the opposite direction. (Simon Phillips)

• Chelsea are said to be the club currently leading the race for Koln winger Said El Mala as a move to Brighton may now be in some doubt. (Bild)

• Josh Acheampong has attracted interest from other clubs but Chelsea insist they don’t want to sell the 19-year-old defender this summer. (Daily Express)

• Chelsea could try bringing Lewis Hall back to the club as a replacement for the unsettled Marc Cucurella. (Fichajes)

• Chelsea are set to rival other Premier League clubs for this top goalkeeper this summer - full story here!

Inter Milan

• There is no buy option in Benjamin Pavard’s loan deal with Marseille, with the French defender set to return to Inter Milan this summer. (Football Italia)

Liverpool

• Liverpool are among the clubs exploring Marcos Senesi as a potential transfer target for this summer as he’s set to leave Bournemouth on a free. (Mark Brus, CaughtOffside)

• Liverpool have scouted highly-rated young Hoffenheim winger Bazoumana Toure as they eye up a potential long-term investment. (Sport Witness)

• Liverpool have made a final contract offer to Ibrahima Konate as they bid to finally secure the French centre-back’s future at Anfield - full details here!

Manchester City

• Nottingham Forest expect Elliot Anderson to join one of Manchester City or Manchester United this summer. (Florian Plettenberg)

• Forest hope to get over £100m for Anderson as their sources indicate nothing is agreed with Man City yet. (TEAMtalk)

Manchester United

• Jadon Sancho will leave Manchester United as a free agent this summer and is set to take a potentially significant pay cut, with Borussia Dortmund increasingly keen to bring him in for a third spell. (Christian Falk, CaughtOffside)

• Nottingham Forest expect Elliot Anderson to join one of Manchester United or Manchester City this summer. (Florian Plettenberg)

• Bruno Fernandes is reportedly keen for Manchester United to sign his namesake Mateus Fernandes from West Ham this summer. (Sun)

• Manchester United are up against Tottenham and Newcastle for one of English football’s biggest prospects - more info here!

Newcastle United

• Newcastle are keen on Manchester City wide-man Rico Lewis this summer and it looks like he might now be available for a fee in the region of £30m. (Chronicle)

• Nick Woltemade to Chelsea could be a surprise story to look out for as the Blues have a long-standing interest in the Newcastle forward, with Liam Delap possibly set to move in the opposite direction. (Simon Phillips)

• Newcastle could be in the mix to sign this in-demand Serie A star this summer - full details here!

Real Madrid

• Jude Bellingham is expected to start for Real Madrid in their second leg against Bayern Munich after impressing off the bench in the first game. (Marca)

Tottenham

• Tottenham have been linked with an exciting move for this England international - full story here!

Leave a comment

Arsenal are stepping up their interest in strengthening in defence this summer, with a top young centre-back likely to be the priority.

The Gunners have a long-standing interest in Real Madrid’s Victor Valdepenas, and my sources have confirmed another name to me in conversations this morning.

Read more

Good morning folks and welcome to another Daily Briefing - your essential round-up of football headlines delivered ad-free and straight to your inbox every morning. Thanks for reading, and hope you enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Chelsea look to re-sign former player for £70m

• Liverpool’s Alisson linked with shock exit

• Plus Mateus Fernandes exclusive and much more!

Champions League round-up

Kai Havertz gives Arsenal win vs Sporting

A late goal from Kai Havertz was enough to give Arsenal a hard-fought 1-0 win away to Sporting Lisbon.

The Gunners survived an early scare as Maximiliano Araujo’s effort crashed against the bar, while David Raya was in fine form with some important saves throughout the game.

Deep into stoppage time, however, Gabriel Martinelli beat his man and produced a clever pass into the penalty area, with Havertz making no mistake with a great touch and finish from close range.

FT Sporting Lisbon 0-1 Arsenal [Pictures from Prime Video Sport/TNT Sports]

Bayern Munich earn deserved win at Real Madrid

Bayern Munich continued their superb form this season with a well-deserved 2-1 win against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu.

Luis Diaz opened the scoring towards the end of the first half, before Harry Kane doubled Bayern’s lead with a lovely finish almost straight from the second half kick-off.

Kylian Mbappe pulled one back for Real Madrid but they’ve got it all to do in the second leg at the Allianz Arena.

FT Real Madrid 1-2 Bayern Munich [Pictures from TNT Sports]

Arsenal

• Mikel Arteta has provided an update on Martin Odegaard’s fitness after the Arsenal captain was taken off in the win over Sporting Lisbon - full details here!

• Arsenal are eyeing up a stunning potential €60m transfer raid on Barcelona this summer for Dani Olmo. (Fichajes)

Barcelona

• Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado has instructed his agent to get him a transfer to a new club this summer, with Barca director Deco aware of the situation. (Cadena SER)

• Joao Cancelo has spoken out on his Barcelona future - full quotes here!

Bayern Munich

• Bayern Munich player ratings from a memorable win over Real Madrid!

Chelsea

• Enzo Fernandez is ready to hand in a transfer request in order to get out of Chelsea this summer as he eyes Real Madrid as his preferred next destination. (El Chiringuito)

• Cole Palmer is also being tipped to leave Chelsea amid links with Manchester United - full story here!

• PSG are preparing a surprise €100m bid for Chelsea winger Estevao Willian this summer. (Fichajes)

• Newcastle left-back Lewis Hall is emerging as a target for his former club Chelsea as they look to replace Marc Cucurella this summer. (Fichajes)

• Chelsea and Tottenham are among the clubs looking to strengthen their attacking units by signing Hoffenheim striker Fisnik Asllani in the summer. (Bild)

• Chelsea scouted one of the impressive players in Sporting Lisbon’s team against Arsenal last night - more info here!

Juventus

• Juventus are in talks to beat Chelsea to the signing of Al Hilal striker Darwin Nunez as he looks to leave the Saudi Pro League for a return to Europe. (Fichajes)

Liverpool

• Liverpool have held talks with the Gestifute agency over a potential £55m transfer move for West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes. (Mark Brus, the Daily Briefing)

• Liverpool are also eyeing Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga and are seemingly leading the race for his signature at the moment. (L’Equipe)

• Liverpool are keeping close tabs on highly-rated Brazilian wonderkid Erick Bele and hope to sign him for below Palmeiras’ €40m asking price. (ESPN)

• Alisson Becker continues to be linked with a surprise transfer to Juventus - full details here!

• Is it time for Liverpool to sack Arne Slot? Analysis here!

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Manchester City

• Manchester City now believe they’re in pole position to sign Elliot Anderson, with the Nottingham Forest midfielder choosing them over Manchester United. (Daily Mirror)

Manchester United

• Harry Maguire has signed a new Manchester United contract - full story here!

• Manchester United are likely to sign TWO new midfielders this summer as they prepare to lose Casemiro and probably also Manuel Ugarte. (Fabrizio Romano)

• Amad Diallo has urged the Manchester United board to keep Michael Carrick as manager permanently, saying: “Obviously, it’s not for us as players to decide his future but he’s been great. He knows the club, he played for the club, he has great experience to manage this club. His relationship with every player is very good and sometimes you need this kind of manager to bring the club to where they belong.” (beIN Sports)

• Joshua Zirkzee is likely to return to Serie A this summer but also has interest from Bundesliga clubs as Manchester United prepare to let the Dutch forward go. (TEAMtalk)

Napoli

• Napoli have identified Thiago Motta as their ideal replacement for Antonio Conte if he leaves the club to return as manager of the Italian national team. (Football Italia)

Newcastle United

• Newcastle left-back Lewis Hall is emerging as a target for his former club Chelsea as they look to replace Marc Cucurella this summer. (Fichajes)

PSG

• PSG are preparing a surprise €100m bid for Chelsea winger Estevao Willian this summer. (Fichajes)

Real Madrid

• Enzo Fernandez is ready to hand in a transfer request in order to get out of Chelsea this summer as he eyes Real Madrid as his preferred next destination. (El Chiringuito)

• Eduardo Camavinga is not in Real Madrid’s plans for next season, but his personal preference is to stay at the club. (Fichajes)

Tottenham

• Tottenham are up against rivals Chelsea for the potential summer signing of Hoffenheim striker Fisnik Asllani as he’s given a €30m asking price. (Bild)

• Tottenham want to sign one of Argentina’s biggest prospects in the form of Ian Subiabre, but he may already cost as much as €100m. (El Transingiente)

• Cristian Romero can leave Tottenham this summer, with the Argentine having “serious chances” to be sold as long as clubs pay his £43.5m asking price. (Fichajes)

Leave a comment

Harry Maguire’s new Manchester United contract has been officially announced by the club this morning, with the England international speaking out on his decision.

Earlier this season it looked like Maguire was likely coming to the end of his time as a Man Utd player, as his previous deal was due to expire this summer.

We reported on clubs showing an interest in signing Maguire, including Chelsea, but the veteran defender has instead opted to remain at Old Trafford.

This will surely be seen by supporters as a big boost, with Maguire’s recent form improving a lot, with the 33-year-old showing what an important member of this squad he can be.

Read more

Liverpool have already held preliminary talks over a major new signing in midfield for this summer, I’m reliably told.

Read more

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

Today’s top stories:

• Chelsea eyeing push for Barcelona’s Jules Kounde

• The latest on Rafael Leao’s AC Milan future

• Manchester United handed Elliot Anderson boost

• Plus Yan Diomande latest, and much more!

AC Milan

• AC Milan sporting director Igli Tare on Rafael Leao’s future amid Arsenal transfer links: “Rafa has two years left on his contract and he’s very important for us. His skills are not in doubt, this season he’s suffered from injuries.” (Fabrizio Romano)

Arsenal

• Arsenal have the edge over Liverpool in the race to sign RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande this summer as he’s likely to prioritise Champions League football. (Mark Brus, CaughtOffside)

• Christian Kofane is a top target for Arsenal and they’re expected to make a formal offer for the Bayer Leverkusen forward soon, while Bayern Munich links have been played down. (CF Bayern Insider)

• Are Arsenal going to bottle the Premier League title? Analysis here!

• This latest Arsenal injury news certainly doesn’t sound too positive for their Premier League and Champions League hopes…

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Barcelona

• Barcelona are open to selling Jules Kounde for the right price this summer, with Chelsea and other Premier League clubs showing an interest. (Mark Brus, the Daily Briefing)

Borussia Dortmund

• Borussia Dortmund are showing an interest in Strasbourg wide-man Diego Moreira, who is planning to move clubs this summer. (Florian Plettenberg)

Chelsea

• Chelsea are set to make an aggressive push to sign Jules Kounde as Barcelona are open to selling for the right price this summer. (Mark Brus, the Daily Briefing)

• Chelsea have a favourable buy-back clause for Diego Moreira, whose fine form at Strasbourg has started to attract interest from Borussia Dortmund ahead of the upcoming transfer window. (Florian Plettenberg)

• Chelsea have made contact over signing this exciting €30m wonderkid - full story here!

Liverpool

• Liverpool face competition to sign Yan Diomande and might need a top four finish to be realistic contenders, while RB Leipzig could also ask for over €100m for him. (Mark Brus, CaughtOffside)

• Eduardo Camavinga’s Real Madrid future is increasingly uncertain and Liverpool are on alert for a possible summer deal. (L’Equipe)

• Liverpool are now on the verge of agreeing a new long-term contract with Ibrahima Konate despite the likes of Barcelona and Bayern Munich being keen on the defender. (TEAMtalk)

Manchester City

• Manchester United are still very much in the race to sign Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson as Manchester City seem to be focusing more on a new contract for Rodri. (Florian Plettenberg)

• Newcastle United are interested in signing Rico Lewis from Manchester City this summer. (Chronicle)

Manchester United

• Manchester United are still very much in the race to sign Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson as Manchester City seem to be focusing more on a new contract for Rodri. (Florian Plettenberg)

• Manchester United have been quoted £43.5m to sign one of their top summer targets - full story here!

Newcastle United

• Newcastle United are interested in signing Rico Lewis from Manchester City this summer. (Chronicle)

• Karim Coulibaly is likely to be on the move this summer and Newcastle are emerging as one of the main contenders for his signature in what is expected to be a ‘big race’ for the 18-year-old. (Fabrizio Romano)

RB Leipzig

• There is a roughly 80-90% chance of Castello Lukeba leaving RB Leipzig this summer, with plenty of interest in the French centre-back. (Fabrizio Romano)

Real Madrid

• Eduardo Camavinga’s Real Madrid future is increasingly uncertain and Liverpool are on alert for a possible summer deal. (L’Equipe)

Tottenham

• Luka Vuskovic has made it clear he expects to be back at Tottenham next season once his loan with Hamburg ends, despite transfer rumours linking him with bigger clubs. (Evening Standard)

• Tottenham are one of the clubs showing an interest in West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville as he looks likely to leave the London Stadium at the end of this season. (Tutto Atalanta)

• Moise Kean is attracting interest from Tottenham as he could leave Fiorentina due to a tempting €62m release clause in his contract. (Calciomercato)

• Tottenham have set their asking price for Cristian Romero as it looks increasingly likely he could leave this summer. (Fichajes)

• Meanwhile, another Tottenham star wants to leave this summer and his agent has started looking for a new club for him - more info here!

Leave a comment

Chelsea were notably close to signing Jules Kounde during his time at Sevilla back in 2021, only for him to end up at Barcelona instead.

However, the Blues are now on alert for Kounde again as it looks like he could be made available for the right price this summer.

My understanding is that Chelsea are now ready to try an “aggressive” push for the France international’s signature, though other clubs could also get involved.

Read more

Good morning everyone and welcome to the latest edition of the Daily Briefing! Hope you enjoy today’s post :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Vinicius Junior has been offered to Premier League clubs

• Anthony Gordon is a top target for Arsenal

• Valentin Barco to Chelsea is close, plus much more!

FA Cup round-up

Leeds survive late West Ham fight-back

Leeds United are through to the FA Cup semi-finals after a penalty shoot-out win over West Ham.

Daniel Farke’s side went 2-0 up at the London Stadium, only for the Hammers to score twice in stoppage time to claw the tie back.

Still, Leeds eventually won on penalties to set up their first FA Cup semi-final since 1987.

FT West Ham 2-2 Leeds (2-4 on penalties) [Pictures from TNT Sports]

FA Cup semi-final draw

Chelsea vs Leeds
Manchester City vs Southampton

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Arsenal

• Vinicius Junior has been offered to Arsenal by intermediaries as he’s yet to agree a new contract with Real Madrid. (TEAMtalk)

• Anthony Gordon is a top target for Arsenal in attack this summer as they prepare to try a move for the Newcastle winger. (Football Transfers)

• Arsenal are competing with Borussia Dortmund for the potential transfer of Brazilian wonderkid Lucca Marques. (Sport Witness)

• Arsenal may have been dealt another majorly worrying injury blow - full story here!

Aston Villa

• Aston Villa have moved into pole position to sign this exciting new goalkeeper this summer - full story here!

Barcelona

• Dani Olmo was a transfer target for Saudi club Al Qadsiah in January, but the Spain international turned down a lucrative contract in order to stay at the Nou Camp. (Sport)

• Julian Alvarez remains a top target for Barcelona, but he’d cost at least €100m, so they’re also exploring Victor Osimhen as an option up front. (Sport)

Chelsea

• Valentin Barco is now reportedly ‘one step away’ from completing a transfer to Chelsea for next season. (TYC Sports)

Inter Milan

• Stop what you’re doing and watch this Hakan Calhanoglu strike for Inter against Roma last night - surely one of the goals of the season! FT

Liverpool

• Vinicius Junior has been offered to Liverpool by intermediaries as he’s yet to agree a new contract with Real Madrid. (TEAMtalk)

• Liverpool are considering an ambitious summer transfer window move for Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella. (Inter Live)

• Marcos Leonardo is an option for Liverpool as they look to replace Mohamed Salah in attack this summer. (Give Me Sport)

Manchester City

• Pep Guardiola has made it clear that this Manchester City star should leave if he’s not happy - full story here!

Manchester United

• Manuel Ugarte can leave Manchester United this summer, with clubs in the Premier League and beyond eyeing up a move for the Uruguay international. (CaughtOffside)

• Manchester United could succeed with a “huge” bid to Aston Villa for Belgian midfielder Amadou Onana after previously considering him as one of their targets this summer. (Football Insider)

• Manchester United have a confirmed interest in Borussia Dortmund contract rebel Nico Schlotterbeck as his future is in doubt ahead of this summer. (Florian Plettenberg)

Newcastle United

• Newcastle are among the clubs eyeing up Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte as he’s made available this summer. (CaughtOffside)

• This Newcastle star says he’s “done” with the club and preparing to leave - full story here!

RB Leipzig

• Yan Diomande is in discussions with RB Leipzig over a new contract with a significant wage increase and a potential release clause. (Fabrizio Romano)

Real Madrid

• Vinicius Junior has been offered to top Premier League clubs by intermediaries as he’s yet to agree a new contract with Real Madrid. (TEAMtalk)

Tottenham

• There has been an immediate lift in the mood at Tottenham, with the club’s players buying into Roberto De Zerbi’s training methods. (Football London)

• Inter Milan are set to accelerate their transfer pursuit of Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario in a deal worth around £17m. (Calciomercato)

Leave a comment

With the Champions League close to returning after the international break, an intriguing battle between Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe looks set to be decisive for the rest of the season.

Mbappe currently sits top of the Champions League top scorers list with 13 goals in the 2025/26 season so far, while Kane is in joint-second on 10, though Anthony Gordon, also on 10, is now out of the competition.

Since Bayern Munich and Real Madrid will be among the main favourites to win the Champions League, the performances of these two world class strikers in their upcoming quarter-final tie could be crucial.

In just under two weeks’ time we’ll know which one of these is still in Europe and able to add to their goal tally, and which one will be licking their wounds.

After all, there is so much at stake here, with the top scorer in the Champions League looking set to be decisive in deciding the tournament’s winner, and perhaps therefore the destination of this year’s Ballon d’Or.

Harry Kane vs Kylian Mbappe numbers this season

You can always take a look at BetUS UEFA Betting if you have an inkling which of these will have more joy in the Champions League, and we also have some of their stats so far from this season.

Starting with Kane, the England international is so far on 48 goals and five assists in all competitions for Bayern this term.

Those remarkable numbers have come in just 39 appearances, meaning Kane is averaging 1.35 goal contributions per game this season.

Mbappe, meanwhile, has 38 goals and five assists in 35 appearances in all competitions, giving him an average of 1.22 goal contributions per game.

Kane and Mbappe set for big World Cup

The 2026 World Cup then comes later this year and will be another big occasion for these two players.

England and France will be among the favourites for the competition, and they’ll need their star strikers in top form.

Mbappe notably scored a hat-trick in France’s defeat to Argentina back in 2022, and he’ll surely be key for Les Bleus if they are to win the trophy again, as he was in their victorious 2018 campaign.

For Kane, meanwhile, this could well be his last chance to win the World Cup, with the former Tottenham man set to turn 33 this July.

Even if Kane can do a Cristiano Ronaldo and play into his late 30s and early 40s, he’s at the peak of his powers now and this will surely be his best opportunity to star for England at a major tournament.

With other big names like Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer, and Jude Bellingham all worryingly out of form, it won’t be easy for Kane, but he looks like being the vital player for the Three Lions if they are to finally end 60 years of hurt.

Good morning everybody! Welcome to the latest edition of the Daily Briefing - thanks for reading, and hope you enjoy :-)

Today’s top stories:

• Liverpool want to sign €45 million-rated full-back

• Chelsea one step away from signing Argentine star

• Manchester United are keen on Bundesliga powerhouse

• Plus Tottenham interested in Serie A defender and much more!

Arsenal

• Mikel Arteta has provided a positive injury update on Noni Madueke.

  “It looked really bad. Noni was really worried, especially after what happened in his other knee a few weeks ago, and he was out for six weeks. But no, it’s nowhere near that injury. That was really good news,” Arteta said (Evening Standard).

• Despite persistent links, Arsenal have not made any concrete moves to sign Nicolo Tresoldi from Club Brugge as of yet. (Fabrizio Romano)

• Arsenal are keen on the Atalanta midfielder Ederson Dos Santos, but he has a verbal agreement to join Atletico Madrid. (Fabrizio Romano)

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Barcelona

• Barcelona have offered Andreas Christensen a new contract with a 50% wage reduction. (Sport)

• Barcelona have made contact regarding a potential move for the Bayer Leverkusen striker Christian Kofane. (Daily Arsenal)

• Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni has agreed to join Barcelona in the summer. (Matteo Moretto)

• Barcelona could move for Ez Abde if they fail to sign Marcus Rashford permanently. (ESPN)

Chelsea

• Chelsea have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of FC Koln winger Said El Mala. The German club is prepared to sell him for €40 million. (Florian Plettenberg).

• Enzo Fernandez has been hit with a sanction following his outspoken comments on how Chelsea is being run. Manager Liam Rosenior has now confirmed that the player crossed a line and he needed to be punished.

  “It’s disappointing for Enzo to speak that way,” Rosenior said.

  “I have got no bad words to say about him but a line was crossed in terms of our culture and what we want to build. As a character, a person and a player, I have the utmost respect. He’s frustrated because he wants us to be successful.

  “In terms of the decision, it’s not all about me, or the sporting directors. The ownership, the players, we are aligned in our decision.

  “The door is not closed on Enzo. It’s a sanction. You have to protect the culture, and in terms of that, a line was crossed.”

• Chelsea are interested in signing the Argentine defender Marcos Senesi from Bournemouth. (TEAMtalk).

• Chelsea are now very close to signing Valentin Barco from Strasbourg. (TYC Sports)

Liverpool

• Liverpool are now making serious preparations to sign Marco Palestra, who is currently on loan at Cagliari from Atalanta. (CaughtOffside)

• Ibrahima Konate would be open to signing a new contract with Liverpool, but the two parties have yet to finalise an agreement. (CaughtOffside)

• Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has urged his agent to sort out a move to Real Madrid in the summer. (Fichajes)

• Liverpool are interested in signing the Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi. (TEAMtalk)

• Mohamed Salah is now increasingly likely to head to the Saudi Pro League following recent transfer talks. (TEAMtalk)

Manchester City

• Pep Guardiola has maintained that Rodri will be allowed to leave Manchester City if he is unhappy at the club. The Spanish international has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid.

  Guardiola said: “There is NOT one player I would think that will turn down the chance to play for Real Madrid, I understand completely… he was born in Spain, so…”.
  
  “My wish is that Rodri could stay as much longer as possible in this club because he's an incredible player, a top player, but life for everyone is everyone”.

• Manchester City are already working to sign the Barcelona playmaker Dani Olmo. (Fichajes)

Manchester United

• Manchester United are interested in signing the Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck, who could be available for £30 million. (Florian Plettenberg)

• Manchester United target Said El Mala will be sold for a fee of €40 million in the summer. (Florian Plettenberg)

Real Madrid

• Enzo Fernandez has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, and his agent has now confirmed they will explore other options in the summer if an agreement on a new contract with Chelsea is not reached. (The Athletic)

• Real Madrid has no concrete interest in signing Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate. (Fabrizio Romano)

Tottenham Hotspur

• Tottenham are interested in signing the Atalanta full-back Marco Palestra at the end of the season, and they have scouted him several times this season. (CaughtOffside)

Speaking exclusively to CaughtOffside, Romano explained that Real Madrid informed Liverpool around Christmas that they were not pursuing Konate, and it remains the case that nothing is advancing there.

“Liverpool remain in active conversations with Ibrahima Konate and his camp over a new contract,” Romano said.

“There are discussions ongoing with the French defender. At the moment there’s still nothing done or agreed, but the conversations are still underway.”

He added: “Let’s see if they can find a financial agreement … The player is open to continuing at Liverpool, but obviously it’s an important contract for his career.”

FULL STORY HERE!

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