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Liverpool are battling Premier League rivals Manchester United for the signature of Benjamin Pavard, and a new report has now revealed whether he would be willing to leave Bayern Munich this summer.

What’s the latest Liverpool transfer news?

With just over two weeks left in the summer transfer window, the Reds must start making progress towards signing new midfielders, as they are running out of options, with Southampton’s Romeo Lavia now set on joining Chelsea.

Moises Caicedo has already joined the Blues, meaning PSV midfielder Ibrahim Sangare, who has a £32m release clause included in his contract, could be targeted as a potential alternative option, but there will be competition from Nottingham Forest.

Jurgen Klopp’s side are also said to be long-term admirers of Real Madrid’s Aurielien Tchouameni, but the Spanish side currently do not intend to let him leave, and the player himself has no interest in departing the Santiago Bernabeu this summer.

Midfield is not the only position that Klopp is keen to strengthen, though, with Portuguese journalist Pedro Almeida recently detailing that Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio is being targeted, with Liverpool willing to pay his €45m (£39m) release clause.

Read The Latest Liverpool Transfer News HERE

According to a report from Abendzeitung Munchen (via Sport Witness), the Reds are also courting Munich defender Pavard, who plans to leave the Bundesliga champions this month, with his contract due to expire in the summer of 2024.

However, there is set to be fierce competition for the 27-year-old’s signature, with Manchester United also interested, and a report from Sport Bild states the Red Devils have already agreed a deal with the player himself.

With the Frenchman struggling in the DFL-Supercup final on Saturday, it is suggested this may be because he is mentally already at either United or Liverpool, with Thomas Tuchel playing him in his unpreferred position of right-back, before bringing him off at half-time.

What’s more, the player even hinted that he’s keen on a move to Old Trafford with his activity on Instagram by commenting on Raphael Varane’s recent post, as noted by Fabrizio Romano.

Is Benjamin Pavard left-footed?

The left-footed defender has been utilised at right-back throughout the majority of his career, but the report seems to suggest he is more comfortable slotting at centre-back, having made a total of 109 appearances in that area of the pitch.

Even though the France international prefers to be deployed in a central role, his versatility may still be very useful to Klopp, as it could allow the manager to play Trent Alexander-Arnold in a midfield role, where he has admitted he enjoys playing.

The Bayern star has the right attributes to be a success in either position, averaging 2.37 tackles per 90 over the course of the past year, ranking him in the 93rd percentile compared to other centre-backs, while also placing in the 98th percentile for non-penalty goals.

The £83k-per-week defender is clearly a solid option to have at either end of the pitch, and there is also an indication he would be a good influence to have in the dressing room, having been lauded as a “wonderful character” by Bayern board member Uli Hoeness.

The only issue is that Man United appear to be ahead of Liverpool in the transfer race, so the Reds may have to move swiftly if they are to beat their rivals to his signature.

Leeds United have endured a tough transfer window, made even more frustrating when sure-thing deals begin to fall through. However, Daniel Farke cannot allow himself to become complacent amidst all the misery…

Who are Leeds United signing this summer?

In what promised to be a summer of vast revolution in Yorkshire, it has instead seen a mass exodus with little recuperation, as ten first-team players have departed with just four having been brought in.

This frustration was exacerbated when, despite seemingly agreeing a deal to sign Max Aarons from Norwich City, late interest from AFC Bournemouth spurred him to make a late change of heart. He would instead join the south coast club for £7m, breaking the hearts of Leeds fans and his former boss in one fell swoop.

Read the latest Leeds transfer news HERE…

However, journalist Dean Jones has now suggested an alternative that could allow them to speedily move on, with the availability of Djed Spence a fine option for them to explore. Especially given how out of favour he has fallen at Tottenham Hotspur despite joining for £20m back in 2022.

The transfer insider told GIVEMESPORT:

"Yeah, I think in the light of the Max Aarons move not working out it seems like a good idea to explore the situation with Spence.

"There’s huge competition at right-back at Spurs, and while there’s been a resistance to letting him out so far, I think that might have to change at the very end of the window. Both Leeds and Southampton should probably be interested in something like that if it came about."

How good is Djed Spence?

As a couple of young, dynamic, English full-backs, it would be easy for the Elland Road faithful to get behind such a talented ace who could not only help their current situation, but lead them into a brighter future too.

After all, before moving to north London, the former Middlesbrough star had shone in the Championship, particularly on loan with Nottingham Forest.

Yet, as Antonio Conte was guilty of with many players, the 23-year-old saw his chances limited before being forced out to France on loan to reignite a stuttering career.

It is his exploits at the City Ground, which massively aided their Premier League return, that Farke should keep fresh in his memory, as the speedster offered plenty at both ends of the pitch in a way potentially even more potent than Aarons has ever shown.

Spence featured 42 times during that league campaign, posting six goal contributions as he marauded down that right flank. However, despite his one key pass per game he never shirked his defensive responsibilities, also maintaining 1.5 interceptions and 1.4 tackles per game, alongside 15 clean sheets, via Sofascore.

Such form caught the attention of many, with former Forest star Brian Laws leading the praise:

"His rise has been remarkable. He has been the standout player in the Forest side and we are talking about a full-back. Full-backs do not tend to get many headlines. He grabs them by the handful. In every single game, he has a positive impact.

"He has power going forward, he has electric pace, he has an abundance of skill, he can drop his shoulder, step-over, go inside or outside — he is a major threat. I’ve been impressed with his one-to-one defending. He is decent on the back post, he is strong in the air.

"There is nothing I have seen that you could call a weakness.”

Then, to compare those earlier figures with Aarons' most recent full Championship campaign, it is clear that there is little to no comparison to be made. His 2022/23 league term saw him average a 6.78 rating, scoring once, assisting twice and recording just one interception and 1.9 tackles per game, via Sofascore.

He too may have pace, but it seems Spence has already learnt how to harness that into a tangible threat. Perhaps a return to the second tier could help reignite his career, and help fans forget about the former Canaries ace in a heartbeat.

After both getting off to strong starts in the new Premier League season, Brighton and Hove Albion and Newcastle United will now cross paths with each other at the Amex Stadium.

This was a Championship fixture just six years ago, and now it’s a regular top-flight fixture with both teams set to enjoy European football this season.

We at Football FanCast have taken a deep dive into the history of this matchup and what can be expected when they go head-to-head.

Brighton and Hove Albion vs Newcastle United: Who has the better head-to-head record?

These two clubs have only faced off in 32 competitive matches dating back to the 1929/1930 FA Cup campaign. Newcastle United prevailed then only to be knocked out by Hull City in the next round and is it Brighton and Hove Albion who have a narrow advantage in this fixture overall.

• Brighton and Hove Albion wins: 12
• Draws: 9
• Newcastle United wins: 11

Brighton and Hove Albion vs Newcastle United: Who has more wins at Goldstone Ground/ the Amex?

Brighton have played their home games at a few different stadiums, it all began with the Goldstone Ground and they were there for nearly a century. More recently though, they set up shop at Falmer Stadium which is more commonly known now as the Amex. Once again, the Seagulls have the slight edge over the Magpies.

• Brighton and Hove Albion wins: 6
• Draws: 6
• Newcastle United wins: 4

Brighton and Hove Albion vs Newcastle United: Who has more wins at St. James’ Park?

Newcastle United have been much less nomadic with England’s ninth most-successful club playing their home games at St James’ Park since day one. It has undergone a lot of changes of course, as has the ownership structure at Newcastle, but is still regarded as one of the best atmospheres in the country. With just one game in at, the Geordies boast the bragging rights when on their home patch against Brighton.

• Brighton and Hove Albion wins: 6
• Draws: 3
• Newcastle United wins: 7

Brighton and Hove Albion vs Newcastle United: Who has the better cup record?

As previously mentioned, the first ever meeting between Brighton and Hove Albion and Newcastle United was in the FA Cup nearly 100 years ago. It was the later who came out on top there by a score line of 3-0, but they haven’t won since.

The 1982/83 FA Cup saw the teams draw after 90 minutes and so it was onto a replay, where Brighton got their first cup win in this fixture. Since then, they have won every time with the most recent outing being a third-round victory in 2012/13 thanks to goals from Orlandi and Will Hoskins.

• Brighton and Hove Albion wins: 4
• Draws: 1
• Newcastle United wins: 1

Brighton and Hove Albion vs Newcastle United: How have the last 5 meetings played out?

Both of these clubs are now established in England’s top flight and so it is no surprise to see that their last 5 meetings have come in the promise land of football. The common pattern is that once again, it is very hard to separate these two!

18th May 2023- Newcastle United 4-1 Brighton and Hove Albion:

The most recent competitive meeting between Newcastle and Brighton took place at St James’ Park back in May and the hosts made light work of it.

They were given the lead by a Deniz Undav own goal only for the German to then score at the right end later on in the game. With it finely poised at 2-1 going into the dying stages, Callum Wilson and Bruno Guimaraes put the game to bed.

13th August 2022 – Brighton and Hove Albion 0-0 Newcastle United:

In the second game of last season, these two went head-to-head on the south coast and there was nothing to separate them. Prior to that, Newcastle got off to a good start with a 2-0 win against Nottingham Forest and Brighton secured a famous victory over Manchester United, so this was a sign of things to come from both sides.

5th March 2022 – Newcastle 2-1 Brighton and Hove Albion:

Newcastle’s resolute form on their own patch is there for all to see with another home win over the Albion. Early goals from Ryan Fraser and Fabian Schar were enough for Eddie Howe’s side to get the win against Graham Potter’s Brighton.

6th November 2021 – Brighton and Hove Albion 1-1 Newcastle United:

Robert Sanchez’s 90th-minute red card is the obvious headline in a game that ended honours even. It didn’t end up costing his side with Leandro Trossard giving them the lead from the penalty spot before Isaac Hayden’s strike cancelled that out.

20th March 2021 – Brighton and Hove Albion 3-0 Newcastle United:

Lastly now to a score line that is a record for Brighton against Newcastle and one that has only been managed twice. The game in question was also in Potter’s spell and goals from an attacking trio of Trossard, Danny Welbeck and Neal Maupay made sure of a huge three points for Brighton.

Who has played for both Brighton and Hove Albion and Newcastle United?

Steve Harper (Newcastle 1993-2013; Brighton 2011)

Steve Harper is a legend in and around Newcastle as one would expect given that he played there for two whole decades. Despite this perceived loyalty he went on loan to a number of different clubs during his time there, one of which was Brighton, and he actually finished his career with Sunderland of all teams, who he grew up supporting.

Leon Best (Newcastle 2010-2012; Brighton 2015)

Leon Best enjoyed a couple of productive seasons with Newcastle in and amongst the rest of his journeyman-like career as a professional footballer. He was part of the team that lifted the Championship trophy in 2010 and then five years later, he also frequented Brighton, where he made 13 appearances whilst on loan.

Dan Burn (Brighton 2018-2022; Newcastle 2022-current)

Now to the only of these three players who is still active and of course Dan Burn is still a Newcastle player too. He rose to prominence as a Brighton man and his exploits at the Amex earned him an eight-figure move to St James’ Park.

Burn has played as a centre-back and as a left-back under Eddie Howe and he has played all 180 minutes of their season so far.

What is Brighton and Hove Albion’s biggest victory over Newcastle United?

20th September 2020: Newcastle United 0-3 Brighton and Hove Albion

As previously mentioned, 3-0 is the biggest win for Brighton and Hove Albion in this fixture and it has happened twice. What makes it all the more interesting is that both of these convincing victories actually took place back-to-back.

In the 2020/21 season, Graham Potter certainly had the number of Steve Bruce and his side, winning on aggregate, six goals to nil. Maupay had the Seagulls 2-0 up with less than eight minutes on the clock, and then it was a late strike from Irishman Aaron Connolly that struck the dagger blow. In spite of all of this, Newcastle actually finished 4 points ahead of Brighton come the end of the season.

What is Newcastle United’s biggest victory over Brighton and Hove Albion?

21st October 1961: Newcastle United 5-0 Brighton and Hove Albion

Newcastle’s biggest victory in this meeting is even more one-sided, and it certainly isn’t as recent. In the first-ever league meeting between the pair, in late October of 1961, the Magpies put their opponents to the sword and came out 5-0 victors.

Brighton and Hove Albion vs Newcastle United: Key stats

• This will be the 13th league meeting between the two clubs in the Premier League era
• Newcastle United haven’t lost to Brighton and Hove Albion in their last four competitive meetings
• These two teams were the highest scoring on the opening day of this season, Brighton scored 4 and Newcastle scored 5

Brighton and Hove Albion vs Newcastle United: Famous fixture

28th February 2017- Brighton and Hove Albion 1-2 Newcastle United:

Given that they haven’t actually faced each other that many times, there weren’t a plethora of choices for famous fixtures. As a result, there is just one, but it really is quite famous in the grand scheme of things.

In the latter stages of the 2016/17 Championship season, with both teams in the hunt for the title, they met at the Amex on a Tuesday night under the lights. Glenn Murray gave the hosts the lead from the penalty spot, a lead they held onto for large parts of the game, but it didn’t last. First Mohamed Diame popped up and then in the 89th minute, Spaniard Ayoze Perez turned the match on its head.

Newcastle went on to lift the title that year with Brighton securing automatic promotion as a close second. When all was said and done, with 46 games played each, only one point separated the pair and so that midweek clash really did have meteoric ramifications.

West Ham United have now made progress in their bid to bring Jesse Lingard back to the London Stadium, Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth has revealed.

What's the latest West Ham transfer news?

The Hammers could be set for a fairly lively transfer deadline day, with 90min journalist Graeme Bailey revealing they are in the market for a number of players, saying: "West Ham working on a few things today if they can, but they are pretty happy with business so far.

"A winger is something they would like but initial offer for Juventus' Filip Kostic turned down whilst they also asked about Samuel Iling-Junior.

Bailey also added: "They would like a striker but their efforts for Brazilians Yuri Alberto, Pedro and Marcos Leonardo look tough. Divock Origi is someone David Moyes does like."

The Evening Standard reports that Paris Saint-Germain forward Hugo Ekitike is also of interest to David Moyes' side, but at this stage, he is looking more likely to complete a move to Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt, with talks currently ongoing.

Even so, the Irons have no shortage of attacking targets, with reinforcements near the top end of the pitch clearly a priority for Moyes, and there is now a growing opportunity for the manager to bring one of his former players back to the London Stadium.

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Sheth has now indicated that West Ham are closing in on a move for Lingard following talks – and the move can be completed after the transfer deadline, as the attacking midfielder is a free agent.

When asked whether the Hammers are exploring a move for the 30-year-old, the Sky Sports reporter said: “One hundred per cent, yes. He has been training with the first-team squad for the last month now we think.

“And it was primarily to keep his fitness up. But it's [the move] starting to develop now. And we're told initial talks have taken place between West Ham United and Lingard’s representatives about a short-term deal.

“But as you mentioned it can happen after the window because he is a free agent. So he's not tied down to the deadline of this Friday at 11 o'clock and he can move next week.”

Read The Latest West Ham Transfer News HERE

How many Premier League goals has Jesse Lingard scored?

The Englishman is very experienced in the Premier League, making a total of 182 appearances in the competition, during which time he has weighed in with 29 goals and 17 assists across spells with Manchester United, West Ham and Nottingham Forest.

Hammers fans will be well aware of how talented their former player is, given that he shone during a loan spell at the London Stadium in the 2020-21 season, picking up nine goals and five assists in 16 performances.

Lauded as "fantastic" and "excellent at West Ham" by Wayne Rooney, the Warrington-born midfielder is clearly a top player on his day, but there may be some justified concerns about bringing him back.

Lingard was released by Forest for good reason, with the former England ace failing to record a single goal or assist in 17 Premier League appearances, so he will need to seriously up his game if he is going to break into the first team at West Ham.

Amid all the turmoil that has beset the pitch of Goodison Park over the past several years, Everton have maintained an impressive youth academy at Finch Farm, admired by those in English football.

Sean Dyche has got a task on his hands in navigating away from danger in the Premier League this season, especially after falling to defeat across the opening three matches of the term, without scoring a single goal.

A battling away draw against newly-promoted Sheffield United last time out did provide a platform for the club to now build from, but there will be many twists and turns yet in the coming weeks and months.

Dyche, understanding the issues Everton were blighted by, strove to replenish the attacking ranks; and he has, signing the likes of Beto, Arnaut Danjuma, Jack Harrison, Youssef Chermiti and co to provide the Blues with a chance to finally end several years of malaise around the bottom of the Premier League table.

They will have to do so without creative midfielder Alex Iwobi, however, with the Nigeria star completing a £22m move to divisional rivals Fulham, having held just one year left on his deal with the Merseyside outfit.

Everton will also have to make do without Demarai Gray, who transferred away from the club in acrimonious circumstances earlier this month.

Why did Everton sell Demarai Gray?

One week after the transfer window had slammed shut for European outfits, Gray completed an £8m transfer to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq, ending weeks of speculation regarding the player's imminent future.

The Toffees had initially rejected a bid from the Saudi Pro League team, despite the winger's role on the periphery and with his contract having been set for expiry next summer.

Gray's mind was clearly fixed on pastures new, with the 27-year-old sharing a post on his social media conveying his thoughts and desire to leave the club.

It was a bit of a blow for Everton after Gray played an instrumental role in the Premier League last season, scoring six goals across all competitions and impressing with his dynamism and versatility, which was paramount amid the injury woes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and the woeful efforts of Neal Maupay, who scored once all term.

Gray had made 75 displays in total for Everton, scoring 12 goals, since joining from German side Bayer Leverkusen for roughly £2m – a paltry fee in the modern game – and had been noted for his "attacking threat" by journalist Josh Bunting.

While Dyche will feel he has adequately compensated for Gray's exit with the acquisitions made over the past several months, there is undoubtedly a sense of poignancy surrounding the nature of an exit of a player who served so well against the threat of relegation last year.

The transfer window is now shut, and the Goodison Park side will have to wait until January if they wish to bring in fresh faces, but there may already be a tailor-made replacement in Katia Kouyate, with the talented academy winger eyeing up his senior debut this season.

Who is Katia Kouyate?

Kouyate, 20 years old, has been impressing among the Finch Farm academy ranks for several years now, and has chalked up 55 total appearances, plundering 11 direct goal contributions.

Described as "brilliant" by journalist Dan Ghorbal, the player's official club profile claims that he 'possesses impressive speed, skill and power'.

Praised for his "good work" already this season by reporter Joe Thomas, the starlet has been making increments to his game over the past several seasons and is now a regular member of Everton's development squad, penning a new two-year contract in 2022.

The Manchester-born forward has demonstrated his dynamism this season, playing across the frontline already after just four matches – and netting his first goal last time out – and could be in line for a big season this year, earning an opportunity to impress among the seniors.

Although he only posted two goals and assists apiece from 25 matches in the previous edition of the Premier League 2, Kouyate did clinch each contribution across the final 13 outings, starting ten times.

Blessed with a naturally impressive physique, lightning speed and awe-inspiring power, Kouyate is pushing for inclusion and will perhaps earn a shot if he keeps his head down and continues to ply his trade for David Unsworth's development side.

The talented prospect offers a slightly different profile to the recently departed Gray, focusing on his direct threat and utilising his pace and power to beat his man and drive the ball into promising openings.

Gray, comparatively, is slightly more fleet-footed, weaving around defenders and creating confusion with his deft shimmies and ball-playing skills, often the instigator with his looping balls from deep.

This could prove to be an invaluable asset, though, with Lewis Dobbin, who enjoyed a promising loan spell with Derby County last season in League One and has already made three appearances in the top flight this year, starting in the 1-0 defeat against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Praised for his "relentless" approach and role as a "crowd-lifter" by BBC Radio Derby reporter Dominic Dietrich, Dobbin, also aged 20, certainly brings an extra dimension to the Toffees attack.

Also described as "explosive" by one talent scout, Dobbin is a proficient dribbler and could be the sort of progressive presence suitable to step in and fill the void left in Gray's wake, although Kouyate would offer something different still.

Indeed, this could be the start of an exciting new era at Goodison Park, with these two homegrown talents blending skill sets to wreak havoc down, primarily, the left channel.

Although he has not yet found his shooting boots with the regularity Dyche will hope for, Kouyate continues to burgeon and could now thrive in the position vacated by the Jamaica international, gone to enjoy the riches of Saudi Arabia.

Given Everton's toothless attack, who showed promise in the 2-2 draw at Bramall Lane but still face uncertainty around their reliability, especially after finishing as the second-lowest scorers in the Premier League last term, and Dyche may well be wise to delve deeper into the club's resources and unleash a precocious talent of Kouyate's ilk.

Things appear to be looking up as far as Tottenham Hotspur are concerned, with the Lilywhites having gone into the international break in buoyant mood following an unbeaten start to the new Premier League season – under the direction of an attack-minded, progressive coach in Ange Postecoglou.

Chairman Daniel Levy has abandoned his pursuit of mere short-term glory by taking on a more long-term approach at N17, with the prior appointments of Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte – both of whom were seemingly "serial winners", according to journalist Samuel Luckhurst – having set the club back in recent years.

In truth, it would appear that the north Londoners are longing for a return to what was an impressive period under former boss Mauricio Pochettino, with the Argentine tactician memorably guiding the club to the Champions League final in 2019 after assembling and building a stellar side in the capital.

The current Chelsea man was able to put together a particularly fearsome frontline including the likes of Heung-min Son, Harry Kane and Dele Alli, with it something of a crying shame that such a gifted XI were not able to get their hands on silverware.

Stats via Transfermarkt

Another figure who was also central in the attacking ranks in those golden years was Danish maestro, Christian Eriksen, with the playmaker arguably a player whose void had not been filled at Spurs following his exit – until now…

How much did Tottenham pay for Christian Eriksen?

The former Ajax man was undoubtedly the most successful addition of the infamous 'magnificent seven' that was signed in the summer of 2013, with Levy and co opting to reinvest the £85m that had been raked in from the sale of Gareth Bale on a host of new faces.

While the likes of Federico Fazio and Etienne Capoue made little or no impact in a Tottenham shirt, Eriksen, by contrast, was a mainstay in the side over the next seven years or so, proving something of a bargain in relation to his minimal £11.5m transfer fee.

Hailed as a "special person" by Pochettino, the elegant Dane was the undoubted creative spark behind the likes of Kane and Son, having racked up a stellar haul of 90 assists in 305 games in all competitions for the club.

Also a clinical weapon in his own right, the majestic gem also contributed 69 goals in that time after typically operating on the flanks or in a central role, with Pochettino having said of his talents back in 2019.

"He has an amazing quality and can shoot from outside the area and has an unbelievable shot with his left and with his right foot."

That dual ability to both provide quality service to others and get in on the act himself made Eriksen a truly instrumental presence as a link between midfield in attack, with it easy to argue that in his pomp he was a real "world-class player", according to former Wales international, Craig Bellamy.

Why did Eriksen leave Tottenham?

Like any glittering period, it all had to come to an end, however, with Pochettino receiving the boot just a matter of months after the European showpiece defeat to Liverpool in 2019, while Eriksen outlined his desire to depart that summer – amid interest from Spain.

Having had just a year left on his contract at the time, it wasn't until January 2020 that the wantaway asset eventually sealed his exit from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, joining Conte's Inter Milan side for a measly £16.9m.

As BBC Sports's Phil Parry suggested earlier this year, it is perhaps not an overstatement to claim that Spurs had "still not replaced Eriksen" until the recent summer window, with there having been "a big hole between the defensive part of midfield and the front three".

Speaking amid the club's woes last season, former Charlton Athletic defender Steve Brown also noted that the Lilywhites had become somewhat "predictable", with the likes of Son and Dejan Kulusevski needing "someone to pick the ball up in pockets, be intelligent and feed them accuracy".

While it may be too soon for Postecoglou and co to be counting their chickens, it looks as if their lengthy search to find an Eriksen successor has ended, following the capture of James Maddison.

How good is James Maddison?

On the face of it, it appears as if the former Leicester City star – who arrived on a £40m deal from the Foxes – is the perfect man to fill that Eriksen-shaped hole in the centre of the pitch, with Tottenham's number ten relishing the ability to be the "main man" in the side – or at a roast dinner…

Hailed in the past as a "super talent" by talkSPORT pundit Danny Murphy, the 26-year-old has settled in beautifully in his new surroundings with two goals and two assists from just four league games, after previously contributing 96 goal involvements in 203 games during his time in the Midlands.

The Coventry-born gem's recent strike away to newly-promoted Burnley was seemingly right out of the Eriksen copybook, as the England international found himself a pocket of space before rifling in a stunning, curling effort from range.

Already being talked about as the "signing of the summer" – in the words of TNT Sports pundit Joe Cole – Maddison could well be integral to what Spurs can achieve both this season and beyond, with pundit Darren Ambrose even going as far as to suggest that he is "probably a better player than Christian Eriksen was for Spurs already."

While it may be slightly too soon to be making such a statement, the "sensational" new arrival – as per Ambrose – is clearly picking up where Eriksen left off, having already spoken about trying to emulate the current Manchester United man's success:

“They’ve always had that type of player,” Maddison told the Independent. “That sort of midfielder who wants to be creative and entertain the fans and be a personality.

"Christian Eriksen in more recent years but since him they probably haven’t had that type of player. I’d put myself in that category. I’m not putting myself on the same level. But I’m that type of player."

If the early evidence is anything to go by, that self-assessment is rather bang on indeed…

Plenty of Liverpool contract news has dominated the headlines of late, and it looks as though one Reds hero could be set to extend his stay, following a new update.

Which Liverpool players will sign new deals?

Jurgen Klopp is at the beginning of an exciting new era at Anfield, following a summer that saw him almost completely rebuild his midfield. Drastic changes were needed after a massively underwhelming 2022/23 – one that saw the likes of Fabinho and Jordan Henderson struggling greatly in the middle of the park.

In total, four new midfielders came in, including Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister. While new signings at Liverpool were paramount, there are also indispensable members of the squad who have been at the club for years, and who will continue to be huge players for years to come.

Recently, plenty of talk has surrounded the future of Mohamed Salah, amid strong interest from Saudi Arabia, while Thiago and Joel Matip's futures have also been topics of discussion, ahead of their contracts expiring next summer.

Who is close to signing a new Liverpool deal?

Another player who could sign a new contract is Trent Alexander-Arnold, and according to Football Insider, he is now closing in on an agreement, seeing himself as a key part of the rebuild currently going on at Liverpool:

"Trent Alexander-Arnold is desperate to be part of the ‘reloaded’ Liverpool side and is close to signing a new contract, sources have told Football Insider. Alexander-Arnold has no plans to leave Anfield and there is a willingness among all parties to agree a deal.

"The 24-year-old has just under two years remaining on his contract with the Reds and the club are keen to end any speculation surrounding his future."

The report added:

"Top clubs across England and Europe would love to prise the full-back away from Anfield, but a well-placed source has told Football Insider that Alexander-Arnold is fully committed to Liverpool. The England international has recently been made vice-captain at Liverpool following the exits of James Milner and Jordan Henderson and is keen to be part of a new look side that can get back into the Champions League next season."

Retaining Alexander-Arnold's services has to be near the top of Klopp's list of priorities at the moment, with the 24-year-old an exceptional footballer whose vision and fight are such a major part of this Liverpool team. He already has 73 assists, coming in a total of 277 appearances.

Having been made the club's new vice-captain in the summer, it would be a huge surprise if he wants to move anywhere else, and he may well be a future permanent captain in waiting. The fact that he is a boyhood Reds fan also increases the chance of him staying put.

At just 24, there is still so much to come from Alexander-Arnold, who has been described as "world-class" by legendary former Barcelona right-back Dani Alves, and a new deal could feel as important as any new signing that comes in over the next 12 months or so.

Newcastle United have clicked into form at the perfect time, starting to close the gap on the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool at the top of the Premier League – who both lost at the weekend – and now preparing the defences for the upcoming Champions League tie against Paris Saint-Germain at St. James' Park.

Eddie Howe's Magpies have indeed won four of the past five matches across all competitions, including an 8-0 drubbing over Sheffield United and a hard-fought win over Manchester City in the Carabao Cup.

The one match they failed to win came in the Champions League opener against AC Milan, with the Toon soaking up the pressure of the San Siro and stoically rebuffing the Serie A side's offensive efforts – PSG are next in line, and it will prove to be a tough task indeed.

What's the latest Newcastle team news?

Howe will have to contend with a deluge of injuries unfortunately, with Sven Botman, Joelinton, Joe Willock and Harvey Barnes unavailable.

Sandro Tonali might return to the starting line-up after starting from the bench during the recent 2-0 victory over Burnley, with his Champions League experience and control on the ball perhaps crucial against a technical Parisien side.

And while Miguel Almiron dazzled against the Clarets, Jacob Murphy might be selected for a starting berth to deal with the robustness of the Ligue 1 side's left channel, with the 28-year-old praised for his "relentless" work rate by journalist Chris Waugh.

Why should Newcastle start Jamal Lascelles?

One absolute in the build-up to the pivotal European encounter will be that captain Jamal Lascelles will retain his starting spot in Howe's team, with Botman's expected absence meaning that the 29-year-old will have the chance to shine on the ostensibly biggest match of his career.

Despite only starting twice in the Premier League last season and having been touted for an exit over the summer, Lascelles was kept on the books and has been a vital presence over the past few matches, praised as a "superb servant" by reporter Daniel Wales.

As per Sofascore, he excelled against the Citizens, winning 100% of his duels and making seven clearances, and he also won four of his six duels against Burnley while completing 88% of his passes and making a key pass.

Kieran Trippier will be confident that his defensive acumen is enough to stifle the threat of the left forward Kylian Mbappe, proclaimed to be an "alien" by Piotr Zielinski for his awe-inspiring feats, with the World Cup-winning France star already scoring eight goals from just seven matches this season.

But Lascelles, who kept a clean sheet against Pep Guardiola's City and the Clarets, will feel that he holds the tenacity and "heroic" mentality – as said by Howe – to effectively aid his team.

The £40k-per-week asset has been on the periphery since Howe took charge over 18 months ago, although now he could truly prove his worth up against the devastating, Mbappe.

Jadon Sancho put his skill on show as he scored his first goal since re-joining Borussia Dortmund on loan, putting them 2-0 up against Werder Bremen.

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• Sancho netted great individual goal
• His first since returning to Germany
• Put Dortmund 2-0 up against Bremen

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  The Englishman received a pass from Julian Brandt on the left flank and deceived Bremen defender Julian Malatini with a nice piece of skill to get in behind him, slaloming into the box and then sending it bouncing past goalkeeper Michael Zetterer.

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• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  The 23-year-old showed on Saturday a glimpse of the quality that was often on display during his previous four-year spell at the German outfit. After establishing himself as one of England's most promising players in the Bundesliga, he returned to his homeland to join Manchester United, but his time at Old Trafford did not go as planned. After being banished from the first-team after a war of words with coach Erik ten Hag he rejoined Dortmund on loan in January until the end of the season.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  Sancho's move back to Dortmund got off to a strong start as he registered an assist in his first game – a 3-0 win against Darmstadt. Since then, however, he had failed to score or create a goal in the seven games he played ahead of the weekend's trip to Dortmund.

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  WHAT NEXT?

  The England international will hope to continue to show his quality between now and the end of the season as Dortmund target a top-four finish to ensure they secure a place in next year's Champions League.

Not everything was rosy come the full-time whistle for Ipswich Town away at Aston Villa last weekend, with Julio Enciso’s injury against Unai Emery’s men looking rather serious.

Unfortunately, the Paraguayan attacking midfielder would look visibly emotional when having to hobble off the pitch after just 17 minutes, with a knee injury suffered by the loanee in the same knee that had required surgery when back at parent employers Brighton and Hove Albion.

Whilst everyone at Portman Road waits with bated breath over how severe of a setback this might be – amid claims that he is set for a spell on the sidelines – Kieran McKenna will be tasked with placing someone else into his XI up next down the left flank with some options at his disposal.

McKenna's attacking alternatives

Enciso was also of use to McKenna away from just bolstering the left-hand side of his team, with the South American also offering Ipswich another body capable of playing as a number ten alongside Omari Hutchinson.

Without Enciso, the popular Ipswich manager will have to put his faith in alternative faces, with Jack Clarke the preferred option off the bench last time out in the unfortunate 21-year-old’s place.

The ex-Sunderland man has shown flashes of his brilliance this season – with two assists coming his way in the Premier League – but he failed to spark into life against the Villans, having also been hauled off when the Tractor Boys were reduced to ten men.

There are also the likes of Sammie Szmodics and Nathan Broadhead who McKenna could throw into action here, alongside flashy new recruit Jaden Philogene-Bidace.

However, both Szmodics and Broadhead have battled with their own injury issues so far this season, whilst Philogene remained rooted to the bench at Villa Park having endured three goalless games so far in Suffolk.

Therefore, the Northern Irishman could be prepared to think outside of the box to fill in for Enciso, with this 20-year-old gem in question having the potential to be the club’s next Hutchinson.

Ipswich's wildcard Enciso replacement

The unconventional route explored by McKenna here could see him look towards the U21 squad as one unusual star continues to stick out.

Indeed, not every footballer attempting to cut their teeth in the men’s game has an Eton-based education to hand, but that is the case when it comes to 20-year-old prospect Tudor Mendel-Idowu.

Mendel-Idowu has since walked away from the Blues to take up a new opportunity at Ipswich – via a fresh adventure out in Belgium with Anderlecht – with the exciting attacker making a name for himself in recent U21 contests in Suffolk.

Having fired home 13 strikes from 35 U18 appearances at Chelsea, Mendel-Idowu has now taken to the U21 fold at Ipswich swimmingly, with plenty of strikes coming his way across his side’s past few Professional Development League encounters.

Across his side’s last six games, Mendel-Idowu – who U23 scout Antonio Mango claimed has “electrifying acceleration” and “fearless charisma” – has positively had an impact on both victories being secured with three goals next to his name.

Therefore, there will be a hope on the 20-year-old’s end that he can follow in fellow Chelsea academy graduate Hutchinson’s footsteps soon, with the 21-year-old going on to be a shining light in the senior ranks at Ipswich by picking up two goals and two assists this season in league action, having also left Stamford Bridge behind.

Capable of playing down both wings and in the number ten spot – much like Enciso – time will only tell if McKenna is willing to gamble on the promising youngster to come good or whether he’ll stick with what he currently has.

Ipswich now showing interest in summer move for "excellent" £12m defender

The Tractor Boys have pinpointed a 25-year-old Championship centre-back as a potential target.

By
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Feb 16, 2025