SPORTING

‎Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has turned down a staggering €1 billion offer from the Saudi Pro League and is poised to sign a new contract with Los Blancos, according to reports from Cadena SER. The deal is expected to be formally announced at the end of the 2024-25 season. ‎ ‎ Vinicius Junior rejects Saudi mega-deal, set to sign new Real Madrid contract. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎The Brazilian winger, 24, remains committed to his long-term future in the Spanish capital despite the allure of Middle Eastern riches. The renewed contract will reportedly extend his stay by an additional two or three years beyond his current terms, which run until 2027. ‎ ‎Vinicius’ decision comes at a pivotal moment for both club and player. Real Madrid, fresh off a disappointing campaign that saw them exit the UEFA Champions League and potentially miss out on the La Liga title, are in a period of reflection and recalibration. Nevertheless, the club views Vinicius as a cornerstone for the...

‎Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero has spoken out in defense of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is reportedly set to leave Liverpool this summer, slamming the backlash from fans as excessive and unfair. ‎ ‎' Trent Alexander-Arnold. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎The Liverpool-born right-back, whose contract expires at the end of June, has reportedly agreed in principle to join Spanish giants Real Madrid on a free transfer. The potential move has triggered a strong emotional response from sections of the Liverpool fanbase, with some accusing the 25-year-old of betraying his boyhood club. ‎ ‎Banners criticizing Alexander-Arnold were spotted near Anfield in recent days, reflecting the disappointment and anger felt by many supporters. Some fans have gone as far as labeling him a "snake"—a term often reserved for those seen as disloyal. ‎ ‎Aguero, however, urged for greater understanding and respect for player autonomy. Speaking to Stake.com, the former Argentine striker st...

‎Chelsea FC are set to deepen their strategic partnership with Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, as two of the Premier League club’s brightest young prospects—Mathis Amougou and Kendry Paez—are primed for season-long loan moves to the French outfit for the 2025–26 campaign. ‎ ‎' Mathis Amougou. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎The potential transfers come on the back of a highly productive loan spell for Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos, who flourished under the guidance of Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior during the 2024–25 season. Santos' development and contributions in midfield have not gone unnoticed at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca eager to integrate him into the senior squad ahead of this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup. ‎ ‎According to reports from L'Équipe, 19-year-old Amougou, a French youth international, is among the next wave of young Blues heading to Stade de la Meinau. The promising centre-back arrived at Chelsea from Saint-Étienne in J...

‎Chelsea are once again preparing for a dramatic squad overhaul—regardless of whether they secure a top-five finish and qualify for the Champions League. Despite spending over £1 billion under Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, the Blues remain a work in progress. ‎ ‎ Chelsea set for another squad overhaul—Champions League or not. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Although Sunday's win over Fulham halted a slide in form, the performance did little to inspire confidence. The second half of the season has exposed significant shortcomings within the squad, and calls for change are growing louder. ‎ ‎While the future of under-pressure manager Enzo Maresca is uncertain, one thing is increasingly clear: this team needs more than just tweaks. A comprehensive summer clear-out is on the horizon, with up to 15 players potentially heading for the exit. ‎ ‎Goalkeepers Under Review ‎ ‎Robert Sanchez has been a liability between the posts, leading the Premier League in errors directly resulti...

‎Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has reportedly begun the search for a long-term replacement for Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson, who continues to struggle with a persistent groin injury. Since joining City in 2017, Ederson has played a pivotal role in the club’s domestic and European success, securing multiple Premier League titles and the elusive UEFA Champions League crown. ‎ ‎' Ederson. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎However, his recurring fitness issues this season have cast doubt over his reliability between the posts, prompting Guardiola and City’s management to explore alternatives. According to a report from The Mirror, FC Porto’s Diogo Costa has emerged as the leading candidate. The Portuguese international, widely regarded as one of Europe’s top young goalkeepers, has a €75 million (£63m) buy-out clause in a contract that runs until 2027. ‎ ‎' Diogo Costa. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎While the release clause is viewed as steep by the City hierarchy, the...

‎Manchester City are positioning themselves at the front of the pack to sign Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White, with the Premier League champions identifying the midfielder as a potential successor to Kevin De Bruyne. ‎ ‎ Manchester City target Morgan Gibbs-White as De Bruyne successor amid growing transfer race. ‎Getty Images  ‎ ‎De Bruyne, who has played a pivotal role in City’s dominance over the past nine years, is expected to depart the Etihad this summer, prompting Pep Guardiola and the club’s recruitment team to search for a creative midfielder capable of filling the Belgian's sizable boots. ‎ ‎While Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz has long been on City's radar, The Daily Mail reports that attention has now turned more decisively toward Gibbs-White, whose performances under Nuno Espirito Santo have caught the eye across Europe. ‎ ‎The 24-year-old England international has been central to Nottingham Forest’s surprise push for Champions League qualific...

‎Barcelona could be on the verge of losing one of their brightest La Masia prospects, as Guille Fernandez draws significant interest from top European clubs including Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Borussia Dortmund, and FC Porto. ‎ ‎' Guille Fernandez. ' ‎FC Barcelona  ‎ ‎According to a report by The Daily Briefing, Borussia Dortmund are the latest club to join the pursuit of the highly-rated 16-year-old, whose potential has turned heads across the continent. However, Dortmund’s pursuit of Fernandez may hinge on their qualification for European competition next season, which remains in the balance. ‎ ‎Further insights from SPORT suggest that Fernandez is still focused on establishing himself within Barcelona's ranks. The teenager reportedly hopes to emulate Fermin Lopez's pathway into the senior squad. Yet, with Barcelona Atletic facing potential relegation to Spain’s fourth tier and no clear route into the first team guaranteed, Fernandez is open to a loa...

‎Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has identified AC Milan’s Mike Maignan as the top candidate to replace under-fire goalkeeper André Onana, according to an exclusive report from Caught Offside. However, the Red Devils face stiff competition from Chelsea and Aston Villa, both of whom have also shown interest in the France international. ‎ ‎Ruben Amorim eyes Mike Maignan as Onana replacement amid Chelsea and Villa interest. ‎Getty Images  ‎ ‎Onana, who arrived at Old Trafford in 2023 with high expectations, has endured a turbulent two seasons marked by inconsistent performances and high-profile errors. His omission from United’s squad in last weekend’s 4-1 Premier League defeat to Newcastle United has further intensified speculation around his future. Although Amorim confirmed Onana will return between the posts for Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon, he hinted at long-term change. ‎ ‎“We need to improve every position on the field – the ...

‎Wayne Rooney has suggested that Marcus Rashford would be eager to return to Manchester United, following a promising resurgence in form during his loan spell at Aston Villa. ‎ ‎ Wayne Rooney claims Rashford eyes Manchester United return after Villa revival. ‎Getty Images (2) ‎ ‎The 27-year-old forward moved to the Midlands club in January on a temporary deal, which includes a £40 million option to buy. Since arriving at Villa Park, Rashford has rediscovered his rhythm, netting three times and displacing England international Ollie Watkins from the central striking role. ‎ ‎Speaking on Amazon Prime’s coverage of Aston Villa’s Champions League quarter-final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, Rooney, who remains a legendary figure at Old Trafford, claimed Rashford’s heart still lies in Manchester. ‎ ‎“Marcus Rashford wants to play for Manchester United, 100 per cent,” said Rooney. “He is a Manchester lad, a United fan. The last couple of years have been tough for him. He needed t...

Manchester United’s 2024/25 campaign has revealed glaring deficiencies across the pitch — but none more pressing than the situation in goal. The Red Devils, already battling inconsistency in attack and vulnerability in defence, are now confronting a full-blown goalkeeper crisis. ' David de Gea ' and ' André Onana. ' Getty Images (2) Since joining from Inter Milan in 2023, André Onana has failed to deliver the reliability demanded of a Manchester United No.1. Despite his moments of excellence, the Cameroonian has been prone to critical errors — including in costly defeats to Bayern Munich, Brighton, and Wolves. His once-celebrated distribution has also faltered in the Premier League, and he has looked increasingly uncertain when dealing with high balls and set pieces. With Onana’s form under scrutiny and patience running thin, United must act. Whether they opt for a seasoned veteran, a high-potential talent, or a short-term solution until 2026, change is esse...

Manchester City are preparing to rival Paris Saint-Germain in the pursuit of Monaco’s highly-rated midfielder Maghnes Akliouche, according to French outlet L'Équipe. However, any concrete move from the Premier League champions is believed to be contingent on their qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League. ' Maghnes Akliouche. ' Getty Images  The 22-year-old playmaker has emerged as one of Ligue 1’s most promising attacking midfielders, registering eight assists and two goals in a breakthrough campaign for AS Monaco. With speculation mounting over his summer departure, Akliouche has become a prime target for both Pep Guardiola’s City and Luis Enrique’s PSG. City are expected to significantly revamp their midfield this summer, particularly with Kevin De Bruyne set to leave at the end of the season. Akliouche’s creativity and versatility make him a fitting candidate for Guardiola’s evolving squad, but the report indicates that the player’s camp is prio...

Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a summer move for Ajax teenage sensation Abdellah Ouazane, as the Premier League giants explore cost-effective options to strengthen their squad. According to the Daily Mail, the 17-year-old Moroccan has impressed with a string of standout performances at the Under-17 African Cup of Nations and is now firmly on the radar of the Old Trafford club. ' Jude Bellingham. ' Getty Images Sport  The talented midfielder, who has drawn stylistic comparisons to England international Jude Bellingham, is being monitored closely by United scouts. With Erik ten Hag’s side set to operate under a constrained transfer budget this summer, the Red Devils are prioritising the recruitment of high-potential youth prospects over big-money signings. Ouazane’s technical proficiency, vision, and maturity on the ball have marked him as one of Ajax’s brightest academy products. While any approach would require negotiations with the Dutch club, it is believ...

‎The Premier League headlines this week are dominated by Mohamed Salah, as the Liverpool icon officially signed a contract extension with the club—dashing rumors of a summer departure. But while fans rejoiced over the Egyptian king’s decision to remain at Anfield, it was his wristwear, not just his pen, that made waves across social media. ‎ ‎' M. Salah. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎The 32-year-old forward, who has been a cornerstone of Liverpool since his arrival in 2017, has amassed an extraordinary 243 goals and 109 assists in 393 appearances. Despite persistent rumors linking him with a move away and the looming departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid, Salah’s renewed commitment offers a glimmer of stability amid uncertainty—particularly as doubts linger over the futures of Virgil van Dijk and other senior players. ‎ ‎Contract Details: No Pay Cut, Massive Potential Earnings ‎ ‎Sources close to SPORTING confirm that Salah’s new deal is as lucrative as his previo...

‎Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo, currently playing for Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, is approaching the end of his record-breaking contract. While discussions about an extension have yet to be finalized, the 40-year-old superstar is widely expected to continue his career in the Middle East. However, new reports suggest an intriguing possibility before he settles back in Saudi Arabia: Ronaldo could sign a short-term deal with a Club World Cup team. ‎ ‎' C. Ronaldo ' and ' L. Messi. ' ‎Getty Images (2) ‎ ‎According to talkSPORT, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner has expressed a desire to participate in FIFA's expanded Club World Cup, set to take place in the United States in June. Inter Miami, who have already secured a special invitation to the prestigious 32-team tournament, are reportedly a possible destination for the legendary forward. ‎ ‎The South Florida club, already home to global superstar Lionel Messi, could make room for Ronald...

‎Arsenal’s pursuit of European glory faces an uphill battle as they prepare for a high-stakes Champions League quarter-final clash with the mighty Real Madrid. The Spanish side, boasting a squad brimming with talent, is led by two of the world’s most sought-after players—Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham. But in an alternate timeline, Arsenal could have been benefitting from their prowess, as both players came agonizingly close to joining the Gunners when they were still teenagers. ‎ ‎Real Madrid stars ' Bellingham and Mbappe. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎This near-miss scenario is a reflection of how fine margins in the transfer market can shape a club's destiny. Arsenal’s loss has certainly been Real Madrid’s gain, and these failed deals continue to haunt the club’s European ambitions. ‎ ‎The Bellingham Saga: A £500k Deal That Fell Through ‎ ‎Jude Bellingham’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular. At just 21 years old, he’s already cemented himself as one of the...

‎After another frustrating defeat, this time a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest, Manchester United finds itself in the midst of a catastrophic 2024-25 season. Manager Ruben Amorim, who took over in November 2024, expressed his concerns, emphasizing the immense pressure at Old Trafford. "In Manchester United, you don't have the time," Amorim remarked following the loss, underscoring the urgency for change. ‎ ' ‎Manchester United ' must ' offload deadwood ' in 2025: 10 players to ' leave Old Trafford. ' ‎Getty Images (6) ‎ ‎This defeat marked United's 13th in the Premier League, matching the club's all-time worst tally from the previous season. With only eight matches remaining, United is now seven points adrift of 10th place, all but confirming their absence from continental football for the first time in a decade unless they secure a Europa League title. ‎ ‎Amorim, who signed a contract through 2027, faces mounting pressure to re...

‎Manchester United are reportedly set to rival Chelsea in the race for Jobe Bellingham, the 19-year-old brother of Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham, during the upcoming summer transfer window. ‎ ‎' Jobe Bellingham. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Under the management of Ruben Amorim, United are planning a major squad overhaul, with the Portuguese coach keen to bolster his midfield options. Amorim is looking to offload several first-team players, including Casemiro, Victor Lindelof, Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Christian Eriksen. Additionally, he may consider selling Kobbie Mainoo to generate funds for new signings, according to Standard Sport. ‎ ‎Jobe Bellingham has attracted significant attention following his impressive performances with Sunderland. The teenager, who is currently a key player for the Championship side, is reportedly on Chelsea’s radar for the summer transfer window. Tottenham and Brentford are also believed to be interested in the young talent, making h...

‎Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres, a standout performer for Sporting CP this season, has attracted considerable interest from top European clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United. The forward’s impressive form has made him one of the most sought-after players ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window. However, his potential move has been delayed previously due to Sporting's high asking price. ‎ ' Viktor Gyokeres. ' ‎Getty Images  ‎ ‎Recent reports indicate that the Portuguese club has slashed their asking price for Gyokeres, significantly altering the landscape for potential suitors. According to The Sun, Sporting CP is now willing to accept a transfer fee between £55 million ($70.7 million) and £70 million ($90 million), a reduction from the inflated figure discussed in January. While still a hefty sum, this revised price tag could make the striker a more viable option for both Arsenal and Manchester United, who have been tracking him for several month...

‎Arsenal are reportedly keen on signing Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP in the upcoming summer transfer window. As Mikel Arteta searches for a new striker, Gyokeres has become a top target, with the club looking to reinforce its attacking options. ‎ ‎' Viktor Gyoekeres. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎According to The Athletic, Arsenal's interest in the 25-year-old forward is growing, with Andrea Berti, the club's new sporting director, said to be a strong admirer of the Swedish striker. Gyokeres, who is proving to be an increasingly cost-effective option, could provide a more affordable alternative to high-profile targets like Alexander Isak of Newcastle United. Additionally, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, another option on Arsenal’s radar, has attracted significant attention from various suitors, making a move for him more complicated. ‎ ‎Gyokeres’ impressive form at Sporting CP has not gone unnoticed. In just 92 appearances, the striker has scored an impressive ...

‎RB Leipzig have initiated discussions with Jobe Bellingham as the Bundesliga club intensifies its efforts to secure the Sunderland midfielder for the 2025-26 season. According to Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Leipzig has thoroughly assessed Bellingham's profile, who is under contract with Sunderland until 2028. Despite recognizing the high cost of signing the 19-year-old, Leipzig has made him a priority target for the upcoming summer transfer window. ‎ ‎' Jobe Bellingham. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Bellingham, who has gained considerable attention for his performances with Sunderland, could potentially follow in the footsteps of his older brother, Jude Bellingham, by making a move to Germany. Borussia Dortmund, another prominent Bundesliga club, is also reported to be interested in the young midfielder. The German side believes they can persuade him to join, particularly due to his brother's successful tenure with the club before his recent transfer to ...