علق خافيير تيباس، رئيس رابطة أندية الدوري على الأزمة التي توجهت له بشأن شكوى المجلس الرياضي الإسباني، كما كشف عن القرار الذي اتخذه حول ذلك.
كانت هيئة التحكيم الرياضي قررت فتح تحقيق، أمس الجمعة، مع رئيس رابطة الدوري الإسباني لكرة القدم، خافيير تيباس، عقب شكوى قدمها المجلس الرياضي الإسباني في 20 أكتوبر الماضي.
وذكرت تقارير صحفية أن رئيس الاتحاد الوطني للاعبي لكرة القدم، ميجيل جالان، أرسل رسالة إلى المجلس الرياضي الإسباني ورئيسيه، خوسيه مانويل رودريجيز في 12 أغسطس الماضي، طالب من خلالها إقالة تيياس من منصبه.
وأوضحت أن تلك المطالبة جاءت بحجة أن تيباس ارتكب 5 مخالفات جسيمة للمادة أ.76.2 من القانون رقم 10/1990، والمتعلقة بخرقه لواجب الحياد.
اقرأ أيضًا | بسبب برشلونة.. 5 مخالفات قد تطيح بـ تيباس من رئاسة رابطة الدوري الإسباني
وفي ضوء ذلك، كتب تيباس عبر حسابه الرسمي على موقع التواصل الاجتماعي “إكس”: “لقد شاهدت هذا الفيلم مرات عديدة، في هذه المرحلة لدي بالفعل ثلاث شكاوى جنائية، وفقدت العد للشكاوى المقدمة إلى هيئة الأمن الجنائي، وهناك بضع عشرات من شكاوى الحق في الرد من بعض وسائل الإعلام الصاخبة للغاية”.
وأكمل: “الاستراتيجية لا تزال كما هي، إغراق النظام بالشكاوى لمعرفة ما إذا كان أي منها سيُجدي نفعًا، في هذه الأثناء سأواصل عملي من أجل كرة القدم الاحترافية، أما الباقي كما في السابق، فسيذهب أدراج الرياح وستكون له نتائج عكسية كارثية”.
وأتم: “وتقدم جالان بالشكوى لأنه يعتقد أن تيباس كشف معلومات تتعلق بقضية صناديق كبار الشخصيات في ملعب كامب نو وتسجيل لاعب كرة القدم داني أولمو”.
Ya he visto esta película muchas veces: A estas alturas ya llevo 3 querellas criminales, he perdido la cuenta de las denuncias ante el CSD y van unas cuantas decenas de derechos de rectificación de algunos portaCOCES muy ruidosos.
Os recuerdo este post del 11 de abril pasado,… https://t.co/Qyjl5vCkiE — Javier Tebas Medrano (@Tebasjavier) November 23, 2025
Aston Villa’s first Premier League win of the season didn’t fall until late September, but heading into Liverpool’s clash with Unai Emery’s side later today, the two sides are somehow tied on 15 points in the early league standings.
Of course, the West Midlands outfit has turned around its slow start, but it speaks more to how alarmingly quick the wheels have fallen off for Arne Slot’s machine in recent matches, with his side deep in a four-game losing streak in league action, alongside also tasting defeat in the Champions League and the EFL Cup along the way.
The under-fire Dutchman will surely be considering changes aplenty heading into this late-night clash against the Villans, with Alexis Mac Allister in danger of being dropped, as his own personal season shows no signs of improvement.
Mac Allister's drop-off at Liverpool
It’s not an exaggeration to suggest that Mac Allister was crucial to Slot and Co. last season as they romped home to the Premier League title.
Of course, Mohamed Salah stole most of the plaudits as everything he touched turned to gold, but the ex-Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder was also a sensational spectacle to take in all campaign long, with five goals and five assists heading his way, strengthening his presence as a constant livewire from the centre of the park.
Unfortunately for Slot, though, it looks as if the Argentinian’s days of hammering home strikes like this sweetly struck one against Fulham are long behind him, with Mac Allister now looking “like Fabinho in his final season”.
It’s been lethargic showing after lethargic showing all season long, in truth, with the number ten doing little to tighten his grip on a first-team spot against Villa when struggling, again, against Crystal Palace mid-week as a much-changed Reds XI crashed out of the EFL Cup as abject 3-0 losers.
Mac Allister would fail to hit a single shot at stand-in Palace keeper Walter Benítez, while also only managing to win a weak two duels centrally, as per Sofascore.
With news emerging that Ryan Gravenberch could be fit for the clash later today, it might be a case of swapping out the South American “disappointment” – as one analyst also branded him recently – for the returning Dutchman.
Mac Allister isn’t the only worrying drop-off Slot has had to contend with, though, as this high-profile summer signing is already in danger of being seen as a flop, based on his early days at Anfield, despite joining with such fanfare.
Liverpool star is looking "painfully out of his depth"
Liverpool demanded everyone’s attention in the hectic summer transfer window.
£415m was wildly spent, after all, with £40m of that huge amount being forked out to land blistering AFC Bournemouth defender Milos Kerkez, following a breakout campaign on the south coast.
His unbounded energy for Andoni Iraola’s men, which resulted in five league assists coming his way last season, must have made Kerkez a priority target for Liverpool, as they went about refreshing their defence in the wake of Trent Alexander-Arnold gallivanting off to Real Madrid.
Yet, while his extremely dangerous pace is clear for all to see in the above clip, Kerkez has yet to really find his Bournemouth groove again at Anfield, with two games on the trot against Chelsea and Manchester in October, seeing him attempt just one dribble.
Kerkez’s numbers vs Palace
Stat
Kerkez
Minutes played
90
Goals scored
0
Assists
0
Touches
76
Accurate passes
40/53 (75%)
Possession lost
19x
Tackles won
0
Total duels won
3/9
Stats by Sofascore
Much like Mac Allister, too, he struggled again when selected against the Eagles mid-week, with Ismaila Sarr having a field day up against the out-of-sorts Hungarian, leading to his two goals rubbing more salt into the gaping Liverpool wound.
Away from that one-on-one battle, Kerkez also only won three out of his nine duels on the night, on top of losing possession a high 19 times, with journalist Tim Spier’s comments that the number six is “painfully out of his depth” lining up for the red half of Merseyside very much ringing true.
Andrew Robertson might be a sensible replacement moving forward, as Slot attempts to put together a strong enough XI that can clinch a desperately needed win against Villa, with the “naive” full-back – as Gary Neville has labelled him – likely to drop out subsequently, alongside Mac Allister.
Every Liverpool game that Jeremie Frimpong will now miss after latest injury
وجّه الإعلامي أحمد شوبير، انتقادات حادة لمجلس إدارة نادي الزمالك، بعد تقدّمه بشكوى رسمية ضد لاعب الأهلي أحمد سيد زيزو إلى لجنة الانضباط، متهمًا إياه بتعمد عدم مصافحة المهندس هشام نصر نائب رئيس النادي عقب مباراة السوبر المصري الأخيرة.
قال الإعلامي أحمد شوبير في تصريحات عبر برنامجه الإذاعي صباح الأربعاء: “الزمالك بالأمس قدّم شكوى ضد اللاعب أحمد سيد زيزو إلى لجنة الانضباط، واتهمه بتعمّد عدم مصافحة المهندس هشام نصر، نائب رئيس النادي، وطالب بتوقيع العقوبة اللازمة طبقًا للائحة، لكن سؤالي ببساطة: ماذا تقول اللائحة في مثل هذا الموقف؟”.
وتابع: “أنا آسف أن أقول ذلك، لكن يجب أن نعمل بشكل مؤسسي وصحيح، إما أن نلتزم بالقواعد أو لا نتحدث عن تطبيقها من الأساس، أنا بالفعل وجّهت اللوم لزيزو على تصرفه، ولكن يجب أن أكون منصفًا: زيزو ذهب وصافح لاعبي الزمالك جميعًا، وصافح الجهاز الفني والإداري، واحتضن الكابتن أحمد عبد الرؤوف بعد المباراة، هذا الفيديو موجود أمام الجميع، وتصرف محترم من لاعب محترف، فقط وجّهت له اللوم على عدم مصافحته للمهندس هشام نصر، لا أكثر”.
وأضاف: “لكن ما الذي تنص عليه اللائحة في هذا الشأن؟ هل تنص على الإيقاف؟ أم الغرامة؟ أم ماذا تحديدًا؟ يجب أن نكون واضحين، فاللائحة التي تنظم السلوك والالتزام تنص على احترام المعايير والروح الرياضية، وتنص المادة السادسة منها على فرض العقوبات على من يسيء إلى الاتحاد أو المجلس أو اللجنة أو الجهة المنظمة أو المسؤولين أو عناصر اللعبة، إذًا هل ما فعله زيزو يدخل في هذا الإطار؟”.
وواصل: “الزمالك طلب في شكواه توقيع العقوبات اللازمة على اللاعب طبقًا للائحة، لكنني كنت أتصور أن الزمالك سيتحدث عن تصحيح المسار بعد خسارة السوبر، فخسارة السوبر أمر طبيعي؛ الزمالك قد يخسر أمام الأهلي أو بيراميدز، كما يمكن لأي فريق أن يخسر، فهذه كرة القدم، كنت أظن أن الزمالك سيعمل على الإصلاح، لا أن يقدم شكوى”.
وأردف: “كنت أتوقع أن يصدر النادي بيانًا أو يخرج المتحدث الإعلامي ليقول إن تصرف زيزو لم يكن لائقًا أو لا يتناسب مع روح الرياضة، وهذا حقه، لكن أن نذهب إلى لجنة الانضباط لمثل هذا الأمر؟ لا أفهم ذلك، أنا بدوري تحدثت عن زيزو وانتقدته، لكني في الوقت نفسه احترمته، لأنه لاعب خلوق ومحترف، ومن يريد تطبيق اللوائح، فعليه أن يطبقها على الجميع داخل المنظومة على الجماهير أيضًا، فحين يخطئ الجمهور يجب أن نواجهه حتى تسود الروح الرياضية ويستقيم العمل”.
طالع أيضًا | بعد شكوى الزمالك.. 4 عقوبات تهدد زيزو حال إدانته في أزمة السوبر المصري
واستكمل: “نادي الزمالك لديه خسائر في كرة اليد والسلة وكرة القدم، إذًا لا بد أن يتكلم ويواجه الأمور، الجمهور ينتظر ذلك، لكنه لا ينتظر دغدغة المشاعر بشكاوى لا طائل منها، فحتى لو تم تغريم زيزو ألف جنيه أو خمسة آلاف أو مائة ألف أو نصف مليون، ما الفائدة؟ الأفضل أن يعمل مجلس إدارة الزمالك من أجل مصلحة النادي”.
وتساءل: “هل الكابتن أحمد عبد الرؤوف سيستمر أم لا؟ هل سيتمكن النادي من إنهاء مشاكله القانونية مع جروس، وفرجاني ساسي، وجوميز وغيرهم؟ هذه هي الأسئلة الأهم، لا أن نقول: لقد اشتكينا زيزو في لجنة الانضباط!”.
وأضاف: “يا جماعة، فلنكن منطقيين، دغدغة مشاعر الناس عبر السوشيال ميديا لا تفيد النادي، علينا أن نعمل بجد وبشكل مؤسسي، الهدف هو إصلاح النادي لا خلق أزمات فرعية، لا يمكن أن تظل الأمور تسير بهذه الطريقة الغريبة، نحتاج إلى منطق وهدوء وعمل حقيقي”.
وشدد: “زيزو لم يخطئ في أحد، ولم يقل أدبًا، ولم يتحدث بكلمة خارجة، كل ما حدث أنه لم يصافح نائب رئيس النادي، لا أكثر، أنا قلت إنه كان عليه أن يسلم، لأننا اعتدنا منه دائمًا على الاحترام، لكن أن نترك كل شيء حدث في المباراة ونقف فقط عند هذه اللقطة؟ هذا غير منطقي، يا جماعة، فكروا في الصالح العام، فكروا في ملايين الزملكاوية الذين يتمنون رؤية ناديهم يعود للانتصارات والبطولات”.
وواصل: “الزمالك الآن يعاني في أكثر من لعبة في الكرة الطائرة، والسلة، وكرة اليد، وحتى كرة القدم، لم يعد الفريق ينافس على المركز الثاني في الدوري، على الإدارة أن تعمل لتصحيح الأوضاع وإسعاد الجماهير، وإعادة النادي إلى المنافسة في دوري أبطال إفريقيا”.
واختتم: “الله يبارك فيكم، يا مجلس إدارة الزمالك، انظروا إلى مصلحة النادي أولًا، ركّزوا على القضايا المهمة مثل قضية أرض أكتوبر والطعن القانوني بشأنها، هذه أمور تمس مستقبل الكيان، أما شكوى زيزو فلن تضيف شيئًا، نحن بحاجة إلى من يعمل من أجل عودة الزمالك إلى مكانته الطبيعية كنادٍ كبير وبطل كما تعوّد جمهوره دائمًا”.
Whilst Alisson Becker is unquestionably the best goalkeeper that Liverpool have ever had in the Premier League, there’s no denying that his unique injury history have left the Reds short at times. It’s something that Jurgen Klopp had to deal with almost every season and something that Arne Slot now has to handle following the Brazilian’s latest hamstring setback.
The Liverpool manager confirmed the news of the injury that Alisson suffered against Galatasaray and the extent of it, telling reporters ahead of the trip to Chelsea: “I’d be surprised if Alisson’s ready for first game after international break.”
The good news for Liverpool is that they should be used to being without their goalkeeper, but to say that they’ve had some mixed results in his absence in previous seasons would be an understatement.
So, with title rivas Arsenal about to embark on an ‘easier’ run of fixtures by all accounts, do the Gunners now have the upper hand or will the Reds survive with Giorgi Mamardashvili between the sticks?
2019/20: Alisson absent for 18 games
Adrian fumbles on biggest stage
Although many will remember the 2019/20 season for how the Covid-19 put a stop to football altogether before Liverpool lifted their first Premier League title, there will still be fans who remember it for Adrian’s Champions League horror show against Atletico Madrid.
Filling in for Alisson, who missed three games with a hip injury not long after he missed 15 games through a calf injury in the same campaign, Adrian gift-wrapped Marcos Llorente’s equalising goal in extra-time as Atletico Madrid advanced in dramatic fashion.
Had Alisson been fit and ready to face Atletico Madrid, Anfield could have enjoyed another Champions League night to remember in a season that they were at their very best under Jurgen Klopp.
2020/21: Alisson misses 10 games
Adrian's struggles continue in thrashing at Villa
As football recommenced under Covid-19 protocols, Liverpool and the rest of the Premier League were forced to get used to empty stadiums and what felt like meaningless games at times.
One thing didn’t change for the Reds, however, and that was Alisson’s injury problems. This time, he added to the Reds’ woes by missing 10 games – including five through a shoulder injury and three courtesy of another hip injury.
Once again, it was Adrian who was forced to step up and once again, Liverpool paid the price in full. This time, they found themselves on the end of one of the most shocking results in Premier League history as Aston Villa battered them 7-2 in the Midlands.
2023/24: Alisson injured for 15 games after another hamstring issue
Kelleher steps up for Liverpool
By the time that the 2023/24 campaign arrived and Alisson suffered his next injury setback – missing 15 games through a hamstring problem – Caoimhin Kelleher was ready to step up. The Adrian days were over and the Reds finally had a reliable backup to turn to, who enjoyed some excellent form.
Kelleher in 23/24
PL Record
Games
10
Wins
8
Draws
2
Defeats
0
Clean Sheets
2
The Irishman enjoyed an unbeaten Premier League run and even played the role of hero as Liverpool defeated Chelsea 1-0 after extra-time in the Carabao Cup. For the first time, Alisson’s absence was not a major concern for those at Anfield.
2024/25: Trend of hamstring problems continue for Alisson
Kelleher called upon once again
In this two-year period, Kelleher staked his claim as one of the best backup goalkeepers that the Premier League has to offer. The truth is that he was more than ready to step up to a starting role elsewhere last season and earned a move to Brentford in the summer as a result.
Alisson, meanwhile, struggled with hamstring problems once again and missed a total of 26 games as Slot won the Premier League title in his first season in charge. Without him, Liverpool’s form didn’t necessarily dip. After all, they won the Premier League title in fairly dominant fashion. But Kelleher still had moments to forget against Newcastle United and Fulham.
Truth be told, no matter how impressive the Irishman was during his time at the club and how reliable Giorgi Mamardashvili may not prove to be, it’s hard to deny that Liverpool would rather have a player of Alisson’s calibre at their disposal every week.
Manchester United star Matthijs de Ligt revealed why the Red Devils have always held a special place in his heart, and it all traces back to two club icons, Cristiano Ronaldo and Edwin van der Sar. Long before he became one of Europe’s most sought-after defenders, De Ligt was just a football-obsessed kid in the Netherlands. He might have come through Ajax’s legendary academy, but beneath that red-and-white shirt, his footballing heart was always rooted for United.
From Ajax prodigy to United star
For De Ligt, the journey to Old Trafford has been long and winding. He rose through Ajax’s ranks and guided them to a stunning domestic double and an unforgettable Champions League semi-final run in 2019. United had come knocking before, but fate took him elsewhere. Instead, De Ligt joined Juventus in 2019 for £65.3 million. It was a move that would make his admiration for Ronaldo grow even deeper as he got the opportunity to share a dressing room with his childhood hero. That gave him a first-hand look at the relentless mentality that defines greatness.
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The boy who dreamt of Old Trafford
Speaking to , De Ligt revealed that one of the very first football shirts he owned was a Ronaldo No.7 United jersey.
“It was the time that Cristiano became Cristiano. Everybody knew Cristiano at United,” he said. "There was also [Edwin] Van der Sar at United at that time and they played Champions League finals. As a kid, naturally, you looked to the Champions League finals and there was United and Ronaldo. So I was always a big Ronaldo fan and a fan of United because of that.
“They tried to buy me before, but it was probably not the right moment, or there were other options that at that time suited me better. But in the end maybe destiny brought me here… it’s a dream for every player to play for United.”
During his time in Turin, De Ligt witnessed Ronaldo day in and out. Speaking to Tuttosport, he called the Portuguese superstar “the best of his generation" as the GOAT debate with Lionel Messi rages on.
“Ronaldo is the best of his generation and a huge example for young players,” the Dutchman said. "I always try to improve the way I play by watching him because even in training he has a crazy intensity and you wonder if he really is 35 years old."
Ronaldo’s future: A shock return to United on the cards?
While De Ligt lives out his dream at Old Trafford, Ronaldo's name continues to swirl around the club he once lit up. Danny Simpson has dropped a stunning hint that CR7 could indeed one day return to Manchester, this time in a leadership or directorial role.
Speaking to GOAL, Simpson said: “I wouldn’t say no. If you look at his mentality, he obviously cares about the club. I think he would say that because he would like to come back again but in another way. I don’t think he liked the way he left so he’d like to come back and make United great again, on some kind of level making decisions.
"The business side is obviously very different, but he’s also a businessman. You can’t knock that team he’s got around him. I’d love him to because I think he’s got a lot to offer, even on that side of the game going forward. Just his mentality and everything he does, he achieves it. That’s what United need."
While no one knows what the next chapter holds for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, one thing is certain that Ronaldo’s legacy is far from over. The 40-year-old continues to defy time in Saudi Arabia, where he leads the line for Al-Nassr. He’ll be back in action this weekend against Al-Fateh, looking to add to his goal tally and keep their title chase alive. His side has made a perfect start to the Saudi Pro League season, winning four in a row, and Ronaldo’s fire still burns as bright as ever.
Wes Brown once speculated about Ronaldo's future and said, "You never know what Cristiano Ronaldo wants to do, but you can’t doubt him after everything he’s achieved. I think first of all, it depends how he’s doing in Saudi Arabia, because it’s not clear he’ll be stopping any time soon – he’s still banging them in for Al Nassr. But he could definitely move into the boardroom, he’s got the ability to swerve away from coaching and into the executive level, 100 per cent. Why not? If he’s enjoying it, it’ll be perfect for him."
While Quinton Fortune opined, "Could Cristiano Ronaldo be a coach? I think he could do anything he puts his mind to. We’ve seen it first-hand during his career. At Manchester United, I could see him as a part-owner, he’s done incredible things in football and also financially, anything is possible because he loves the club. The club still loves him with the amazing memories he created there, if he got an opportunity behind the scenes, I think he’d jump to be a part of it.
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De Ligt’s big test at Anfield
De Ligt’s focus is now on United's trip to Anfield to face Liverpool. With Alexander Isak fully fit and ready to fire on all cylinders, the Dutchman will have his work cut out keeping one of the Premier League’s deadliest forwards quiet.
“We know the magnitude of it,” De Ligt says of the fixture. “I walked down the street yesterday and several people said to me, ‘Hey, Sunday’s the game!’ You feel around here what it means. We already know that as players. But, besides that, we also know that it’s really important for us to get a result because we’re improving. But we have to keep winning.”
Already thinking about 2026 arrivals, Celtic have now reportedly joined Spanish giants Atletico Madrid and Premier League side Chelsea in the race to sign teenage talent.
Rodgers admits "there'll always be criticism"
It’s been a frustrating week for the Hoops so far after being forced to settle for a point at Red Star Belgrade. The Bhoys once again came up short on the European stage, although manager Brendan Rodgers claimed that it was a good point and admitted that “there’ll always be criticism” on such a stage.
The big positive for Celtic to take from Belgrade is Kelechi Iheanacho’s second goal in three games for the club. The former Leicester City striker didn’t exactly receive the instant support of those at Celtic Park after arriving late on in the summer window, but has since proved several doubters wrong.
With Hibernian up next, Iheanacho will be looking to make his mark yet again to hand Rodgers the talisman that he has been seeking. That said, even after the Nigerian’s arrival, the Bhoys still have unfinished business in the transfer window.
Reports are now suggesting that they’ve joined the race to sign a teenage talent alongside Atletico Madrid and Chelsea in 2026.
Celtic join race to sign Oyirwoth
As reported by The Blazing Musket, Celtic are now racing to sign Allan Oyirwoth alongside Atletico Madrid and Chelsea. The three clubs have all set their sights on the New England Revolution midfielder, who has already made his mark on senior football in the MSL.
Already earning plenty of praise, Oyirwoth was described as “very talented” by New England teammate Matt Polster earlier this month and is certainly a player to watch.
Of course, jumping ahead of Atletico Madrid and Chelsea in the race for his signature will be no easy task, but Celtic can offer the vital game time that their rivals are unlikely to hand the midfielder.
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ByBen Gray Sep 25, 2025
Rodgers has already proved his willingness to play young players this season – starting 19-year-old Colby Donovan in Belgrade – and Oyirwoth could be next to benefit from that in Scotland.
Monaco have shortlisted German manager Edin Terzic as a possible replacement if they decide to sack current coach Adi Hutter. The recent 2-2 draw against Nice leaves Monaco with just one win of their last five matches, putting Hutter’s job in jeopardy. However, Terzic is said to be evaluating Monaco's offer and is not fully convinced he wants to take the job.
Monaco eye Terzic as Hutter replacement
According to , Monaco owner Dmitry Rybolovlev is personally overseeing negotiations with Edin Terzic's representatives. The club has identified Terzic as the leading candidate to replace Hutter, who is on the verge of being sacked. However, Terzic is yet to be convinced and is carefully considering Monaco's proposal before agreeing to personal terms.
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Monaco struggling in Ligue 1
Hutter joined Monaco in the summer of 2023, succeeding Philippe Clement. Guiding the club to the Champions League on consecutive seasons, he was rewarded with a contract extension in January this year, but a poor start to the 2025-26 campaign, including a 4-1 defeat to Club Brugge in the Champions League, has left them fifth in Ligue 1 and still without a win in Europe. Hutter’s situation has been worsened by an ongoing injury crisis, which may prompt him to fast-track midfielder Paul Pogba’s return to the squad.
Terzic's availablity after hiatus
Terzic has been out of work since leading German side Borussia Dortmund to the 2023-24 Champions League final, where they eventually lost to Real Madrid. Despite that achievement, he left after Dortmund finished fifth in the Bundesliga. The German coach has since declared that he is ready to return to management after taking a one-year break from football.
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Monaco's expectation in the International break
Monaco will look to convince Terzic as soon as possible, with club football currently on pause due to the World Cup qualifiers. The club hopes his appointment can help turn around their fortunes once the season resumes.
Fulham have now opened fresh talks to sign a red-hot forward, who is open to a move to Craven Cottage this summer, according to a report.
Cottagers keen on new forward despite promising Muniz update
At one stage, it was looking likely that Rodrigo Muniz was going to move to Atalanta, but the Italian club were unwilling to meet the Cottagers’ demands, and they have since opted to sign Nikola Krstovic from Lecce.
Promisingly, it has since been revealed that Muniz is due to be offered a new deal, with the Brazilian eager to extend his stay at Craven Cottage.
Transfer expert Graeme Bailey said: “I am told that Muniz is one of Fulham’s lowest paid players, he is very much due a new contract, and Marco Silva has made it clear to Fulham’s top brass he wants this sorting out. Muniz wants to stay and pledge his future to Fulham.”
Fulham'sRodrigoMunizreacts after the match
As such, Silva may no longer need to bring in a new starting striker this summer, although an opening bid was recently submitted for up-and-coming Partizan Belgrade centre-forward Dusan Jovanovic.
However, having made no outfield additions to the squad up to this point, despite losing Willian and Reiss Nelson, Silva appears to be keen to bring in a new winger, and talks have now been re-opened over a deal for Shakhtar Donetsk’s Kevin.
That is according to Sky Sports News’ Dharmesh Sheth, who states the fee and structure of the deal are currently being discussed, with Fulham encouraged by the fact the Brazilian is open to a move to Craven Cottage this summer.
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However, there is currently a gap in valuation between the Cottagers and the Ukrainian club, with the west Londoners perhaps unwilling to match the huge £43m asking price.
Kevin could be ready for Premier League move
The 22-year-old has made a flying start to the 2025-26 campaign, having already chipped in with six goal contributions in Shakhtar’s opening three Europa League qualifiers, while he has also impressed across the previous two seasons.
Season
League appearances
Goal contributions
2023-24
14
7
2024-25
24
10
The Shakhtar star tested himself in the Champions League last season, scoring two goals in seven outings in Europe’s elite competition, which suggests he could now be ready to cut his teeth in the Premier League.
That said, it would be a gamble for Fulham to shell out what would be a club-record £43m fee for the Sao Paulo-born star, given that he is yet to prove himself in a major domestic league, making just 11 appearances for Palmeiras before moving to Ukraine.
As such, Fulham should continue trying to get a deal done for a lower price, but if Shakhtar continue to play hardball, there are plenty of alternative options on the shortlist, with the likes of Reiss Nelson and Raheem Sterling being named as potential targets.
In Alexander Isak’s ongoing absence from Newcastle United’s matchday squads, Anthony Gordon was tasked with leading the line for the Magpies in their Premier League opener against Aston Villa.
Manager Eddie Howe was certainly complimentary of the England international, and said he “looked very good as a centre forward” at Villa Park.
Gordon, who got 90 minutes under his belt against the Villans, managed two shots on target and completed 23 sprints, as per Sofascore. He showed great threat at running in behind and managed to get Ezri Konsa sent off when he was bearing down on goal.
Yet, as threatening as the forward looked as a striker on Sunday, it’s not his natural position. Newcastle have been linked with some true centre-forwards.
Newcastle’s latest striker target
The hunt goes on for the Magpies, as they search for a new striker to strengthen up front this summer. As has been reported this week, Goncalo Ramos is reportedly open to a move to the North East from PSG, but it remains to be seen if that deal will materialise.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Another alternative option could come from within the Premier League, according to TEAMTalk. Newcastle are said to be ‘exploring a move’ to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers and Norway international striker Jorgen Strand Larsen.
However, this deal will not be easy at all, with Wolves ‘thin on attacking depth’ after sales and injuries have already affected them.
Even so, ‘the door isn’t entirely shut’ for Howe’s side to sign Strand Larsen, and if the Old Gold find a replacement, a £30m deal could be on the cards this summer.
Why Strand Larsen would be a good signing
After initially moving on loan to Molineux last season from Celta Vigo, it was an impressive debut season in the West Midlands for Strand Larsen. He became a key source of goals in a Wolves team that had previously only had Matheus Cunha to inspire them in front of goal.
Last season, the 25-year-old managed to find the back of the net 14 times in 35 Premier League appearances. Some of the underlying numbers show just how well he played, averaging 0.5 goals and 1.2 shots on target per 90 minutes.
Goals
0.5
14
Shots on target
1.2
34
Key passes
0.7
21
Expected goal involvements
0.39xGI
11.32xGI
Aerial duels won
2.3
67
Described as a “target man” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, the former Celta Vigo star has shown a great instinct in front of goal for the Old Gold.
This goal against Manchester City last season sums that up, with excellent movement in the penalty box to get on the end of an early cross.
The Magpies are looking for a long-term replacement for Isak, and Gordon would love to find someone with whom he can have an equally deadly partnership. As per Transfermarkt, the pair have combined for ten goals, more than any other player in Gordon’s career.
Indeed, the 2024/25 campaign was not the best of Gordon’s career, after struggling for form at the start of the season.
He scored nine goals and assisted seven in 42 games. Yet, crosses like this to Isak make him such a dangerous prospect for opponents.
It is easy to imagine a cross like that going onto Strand Larsen’s head, instead. The Norwegian star stands at six feet four inches tall, so if he gets service like that, there is every chance he can capitalise.
There are numbers to suggest Gordon excels at deliveries into the box, like the one above. Last season, he averaged 0.63 crosses into the penalty area and 2.03 passes into the penalty area per 90 minutes. That placed him in the top 7% and 15% of Premier League attackers.
Gordon and Isak had a sensational partnership at St James’ Park, but with the Swede seemingly set to leave the club – or remain in exile – it could be time for a new duo to form. Strand Larsen, with his aerial dominance and penalty box instinct, could be that striker.
For just £30m, Newcastle may have found the dream Isak replacement and someone Gordon can excel with.
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While they certainly didn’t help themselves, the biggest problem for Tottenham Hotspur last season was injuries.
Ange Postecoglou had to make do with a cobbled-together squad for much of the campaign, and when he did have his players back, they won the Europa League.
Arguably, the biggest miss for the Lilywhites was Cristian Romero, who missed 27 games before playing a pivotal role in the club’s first trophy triumph in 17 years.
The World Cup winner will undoubtedly be one of Thomas Frank’s most important players this season, and so fans should be delighted about reports linking the club to an international who has been compared to him, as well as Gabriel Magalhães.
Spurs target Romero and Gabriel hybrid
It’s been an interesting summer for Spurs so far regarding transfers, as while their pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White hasn’t borne any fruit, they’ve bought in several other potential game-changers.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
For example, while he wasn’t cheap, Mohammed Kudus could help turn the Lilywhites into a far more dangerous side, while Joao Palhinha has the ability to make them a far tougher side to break down.
Moreover, the North Londoners appear keen on adding at least one more player to their ranks before the window slams shut, a player who has been compared to Romero and Gabriel.
At least that’s according to a recent report from Sebastien Vidal, who claims that Spurs are very interested in Ronald Araujo, who is valued at £43m.
In fact, the journalist goes further, revealing that the Lilywhites are “expected” to make their first official approach for the Barcelona star as soon as “next week.”
Barcelona'sRonaldAraujo
It could be a complicated and relatively costly transfer to get done, but Araujo has proven he’d be worth it, especially as he’s been compared to Romero and Gabriel.
How Araujo compares to Romero & Gabriel
Now, there are several quite surface-level similarities you can point to between Araujo, Gabriel and Romero, such as them all being South American defenders who play for their nations, the fact they all play for top sides in one of Europe’s top five leagues, or that none of them are the kind of defender who gets bullied off the ball easily.
Paraguay's Julio Enciso in action with Uruguay'sRonaldAraujo
However, thanks to FBref, we know that there are also some undeniable statistical similarities between them as they looked at all centre-backs across the top five leagues and, over the last 365 days, the Arsenal star comes in as the third most similar to the Barça ace, while the Spurs titan ranks as the ninth most similar.
You can gain a better understanding of how these comparisons were made by examining the underlying numbers in which the Uruguayan ranked closely to the two Premier League monsters.
Non-Penalty Expected Goals
0.11
0.10
Passing Accuracy
91.9%
90.2%
Key Passes
0.48
0.49
Passes into the Penalty Area
0.36
0.30
Goal-Creating Actions
0.24
0.23
Interestingly, when it comes to the Gunners’ ace, the Rivera-born star doesn’t actually rank all that closely in the defensive metrics, and instead shares plenty of the Brazilian’s offensive qualities, from non-penalty expected goals to key passes and goal-creating actions, all per 90.
However, when it comes to the Lilywhites ace, the metrics include offensive and defensive statistics, such as interceptions, percentage of aerial duels won, tackles in the middle third, key passes and more, all per 90.
Non-Penalty Expected Goals
0.11
0.10
Interceptions
1.07
1.34
Aerial Duels Won %
62.3%
60.3%
Tackles in the Middle Third
0.60
0.51
Key Passes
0.48
0.45
Progressive Carries
0.71
0.76
With all that said, while comparisons to two of the best defenders in the world’s toughest league are certainly encouraging, there are other arguments for why the North Londoners should be all over a deal for the former Boston River star, such as his experience.
For example, despite still being just 26 years old, and therefore a year out from hitting his peak, according to research from The Athletic, the “athletic monster,” as dubbed by analyst Raj Chohan, has made 175 appearances for Barcelona, of which 141 have been starts, and he’s racked up a pretty good tally of ten goals and seven assists in those games.
On top of that, he has also helped the Spanish giants win two La Liga titles, two Copa del Reys and two Super Cups, which makes it easy to understand why legendary centre-back Carles Puyol once described him as “one of the best defenders in the world.”
Ultimately, even though it could be a complicated transfer to get over the line, Spurs should be doing what they can to secure Araujo’s services, especially as he’s something of a hybrid between Romero and Gabriel.
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