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The 2024/25 Premier League season has been dominated by Liverpool’s brilliant start under Arne Slot, Manchester United’s continued fall from grace, Nottingham Forest’s unlikely Champions League bid and contentious refereeing decisions.

The latter is often the main talking point come Saturday evening, let alone Monday morning. William Saliba’s contentious penalty against Brighton saw the referees under the spotlight once again last weekend, while Tottenham’s Lucas Bergvall was the centre of controversy in the EFL Cup when he perhaps ought to have walked before his late winner against Liverpool.

Here, FootballFanCast looks at 11 of the most controversial refereeing decisions of the current Premier League campaign, and why they’ve left players, managers and fans alike angry.

10 of the worst referee mistakes in football history

Some say it’s the hardest job in football, but these refs got it really, really wrong.

By
Ross Kilvington

Jan 7, 2025

11

Declan Rice second yellow v Brighton

Referee: Chris Kavanagh

Declan Rice was sent off during Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brighton in August after being shown a second yellow card after poking the ball away from Joel Veltman as he prepared to take a free-kick.

While by the letter of the law, the decision was correct, it incensed many Arsenal fans, and has continued to do so because other similar incidents have since gone unpunished.

Even referee Chris Kavanagh, who showed Rice the red, said he “didn’t like” the decision, but “had no choice”.

10

Pedro Neto penalty claim v Crystal Palace

Referee: Tim Robinson

Chelsea were 1-0 up against Crystal Palace when Pedro Neto and Tyrick Mitchell sprinted towards a loose ball just inside Palace’s penalty area.

Neto beat Mitchell to the ball, poking it away with his toe, while Mitchell missed it, instead connecting with Neto’s legs and sending him to the ground.

Match official Tim Robinson judged Mitchell to have fairly won the ball, as did the VAR. Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher, later told Sky Sports that he would have pointed to the spot.

9

Ait-Nouri handball claim v Nottingham Forest

Referee: Peter Bankes

Viewers were left puzzled as to why Rayan Ait-Nouri was not penalised for what appeared to be a blatant handball during Wolves’ 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forest.

Referee Peter Bankes dismissed appeals for a penalty after Ola Aina’s cross struck Ait-Nouri’s arm. VAR checked the incident and agreed with the on-field decision.

After the game, a tweet from the Premier League Match Centre account revealed that Ait-Nouri had escaped punishment because his arm was deemed to have been in a natural position when the ball struck it. An interesting call, to say the least.

8

Jhon Duran red v Newcastle

Newcastle United 3-0 Aston Villa, December 26

Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran was sent off when he was deemed to have intentionally stamped on Magpies defender Fabian Schar during Villa’s 3-0 loss at St James’ Park.

While some, including in the video below, agreed that it was right for the Colombian to be sent off, others, including former Villa star Dean Saunders, were outraged.

“There was no intent!” raged Saunders on TalkSPORT. “If you watch, Duran is trying to get to the ball past Schar.”

Duran reacted angrily to his sending-off at the time, kicking a water bottle as he left the pitch and having to be restrained by a member of Villa’s backroom staff. He was later charged by the FA with improper conduct.

7

Ebere Eze disallowed goal v Brentford

Referee: Sam Barrott

Crystal Palace midfielder Ebere Eze was controversially denied a brilliant free-kick goal in the Eagles’ 2-1 defeat to Brentford back in August.

Eze had scored directly from a wide free-kick with the game goalless, but referee Sam Barrott had blown the whistle before the ball crossed the line for a foul by Palace’s Will Hughes.

Because of the early whistle, VAR was unable to review Hughes’ supposed foul, or Eze’s goal.

Eze later claimed that Barrott admitted to making an error by disallowing his goal, telling BBC’s Match of the Day: “I was told [by the referee] that he blew too early and made the mistake. It could have changed the game but we have to deal with it.”

6

Issa Diop foul v Liverpool

Referee: Tony Harrington

Liverpool fans were left baffled when Fulham defender Issa Diop wasn’t shown a red card during the Reds’ 2-2 draw with the Cottagers in mid-December.

While challenging Andy Robertson for a bouncing ball, the French defender missed the ball and instead sunk his studs into the knees of the Scotsman, leaving him writhing in pain on the floor. Diop was only shown a yellow card by referee Tony Harrington, with the VAR deciding against overturning the original call.

To add insult to injury, Robertson was later sent off for a challenge on Harry Wilson.

5

Leandro Trossard second yellow v Man City

Referee: Michael Oliver

Weeks after Declan Rice’s dismissal against Brighton, Leandro Trossard left his Gunners teammates in a similar pickle after being given a second caution, which also came from delaying the restart following a foul.

Leading 2-1 against champions Manchester City moments before half-time, the Belgian barged into Bernardo Silva, with referee Michael Oliver awarding the home side a free-kick.

Trossard appeared to kick the ball away after the whistle, which Oliver took as seeking to delay the restart of play despite Silva being prone at the time, while the winger protested his innocence as he may have been looking to set Gabriel Martinelli clear.

It was certainly on the pettier side as red cards go, and it was made all the more sickening for Arsenal given that Mateo Kovacic had escaped the same punishment for a pair of more egregious misdemeanours in a previous meeting (under Oliver) – even before they were pegged back by a late equaliser.

Every Premier League team's worst referee

Which referees are full of bad omens and shocking statistics? FFC breaks down each PL club’s least-wanted referee.

1

By
Stephan Georgiou

Oct 2, 2024

4

Matthijs de Ligt foul v West Ham

Referee: David Coote

In what proved to be Erik ten Hag’s last game in charge of Manchester United, the Red Devils were tied with West Ham at one goal apiece when United defender Matthijs de Ligt conceded a late penalty.

Referee David Coote did not initially give a spot-kick, but it was overturned by VAR official Michael Oliver, who adjudged De Ligt to have fouled Hammers striker Danny Ings.

Jarrod Bowen stepped up and fired home, sealing victory for West Ham. Ten Hag was sacked less than 24 hours later.

Former Premier League referee Howard Webb, who is chief of refereeing body PGMOL, told Premier League’s Match Officials Mic’d Up show that he thought the decision to award the penalty was incorrect.

“I think this is a situation where we’d leave the on-field decision as it is, probably whichever way it’s called. On balance, I don’t think it’s a penalty kick,” he said.

We suspect that United fans may be grateful it was given.

3

William Saliba foul v Brighton

Referee: Anthony Taylor

“I’ve never seen a decision like this in my career,” Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said after his side conceded a penalty against Brighton.

With Arsenal leading 1-0 thanks to Ethan Nwaneri’s goal, Joao Pedro went to ground following a clash of heads with Saliba while both contested a looping ball.

Referee Anthony Taylor awarded a penalty and the VAR saw no reason to overturn his original call.

However, other angles of the incident appeared to show Saliba getting a touch on the ball before catching the Brazilian, which is what angered Arteta, whose side ultimately dropped two points because of the decision.

2

Pervis Estupinan challenge v West Ham

Referee: Rob Jones

Late on in West Ham’s recent draw with Brighton, Hammers defender Maximilian Kilman advanced the ball into midfield only to be met by a flying Pervis Estupinan, who appeared to leave the floor with both feet, clattering into Kilman with his studs up.

Referee Rob Jones immediately produced a yellow card, but it was then checked by VAR official Paul Tierney. His decision? Somehow, no red card.

Ollie Watkins is happy at Aston Villa, according to Fabrizio Romano, despite his furious post-match interview after their clash with Newcastle.

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• Watkins fuming he was left out of UCL clash
• Linked with summer exit from Villa
• Villa keen for him to stay

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Watkins gave a furious post-match interview after Villa's 4-1 win over Newcastle at the weekend, in which he scored, after being left out of Unai Emery's team for their clash with PSG in the Champions League quarter-finals. Watkins has continually been linked away from Villa, and was the subject of a January bid from Arsenal.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Villa are pushing for Champions League qualification and sit seventh in the Premier League, although they are level on points with fifth-placed Chelsea, and are only out of the top five due to goal difference. Watkins has remained productive this season and has scored 15 league goals in 33 games, while also providing seven assists.

• WHAT FABRIZIO ROMANO SAID

  Writing in his GiveMeSport newsletter, Romano responded to the question of whether there are doubts over Watkins' future, saying: "No, at the moment no. They’re happy with Watkins and he’s happy at the club. Then if a proposal comes, never say never – as it was the case in January."

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  WHAT NEXT?

  Villa play Manchester City in midweek as they aim to continue their push for Europe. It is a huge game for both clubs' European ambitions.

After confirming the arrival of defender Emmanuel Agbadou, Wolverhampton Wanderers have now reportedly set their sights on signing an experienced striker on loan this month.

Wolves transfer news

After failing to sign a central defender in the summer and suffering ever since, Wolves have instantly backed new manager Vitor Pereira by welcoming Agbadou from Ligue 1 side Stade Reims. 27 years old and providing the experience that the Midlands club have lacked at times, Agbadou and the rest of his new teammates will undoubtedly have their focus firmly fixed on Premier League safety.

Speaking to the club website after officially welcoming the Ivory Coast defender, chairman Jeff Shi said: “We’re delighted to welcome Emmanuel to the club. He’s a player our recruitment team have watched for a long time and Vitor agreed that he was the right player and the right character to strengthen our squad now.

“It was important we completed the transfer early in the window to help Vitor straight away, and, like all transfers, this one took a lot of hard work from a lot of people. I hope Emmanuel has a successful career at Wolves, and he’ll have the full support of everyone during his time here.”

6 players who could join or leave Wolves in January

New Wolves manager Vitor Pereira could face a busy January transfer window.

By
Ross Kilvington

Jan 8, 2025

Agbadou may not be the last player to be welcomed with open arms at the Molineux this month, however, with the Midlands club instantly setting their sights on a reinforcement at the opposite end of Pereira’s side.

According to Wayne Veysey of Football Insider, Wolves have now opened preliminary talks to sign Kelechi Iheanacho on loan from Sevilla, who will allow the Nigerian to leave for the rest of the season this month.

The former Leicester City striker – earning a reported £76,000-a-week – has struggled in La Liga, but could now receive the opportunity to rediscover his best form in a league he knows incredibly well all whilst keeping Wolves afloat in England’s top flight.

"Talented" Iheanacho can be Cunha fail-safe

Signing Iheanacho – an experienced striker who knows all about the Premier League – would certainly be an intelligent move by all involved at Wolves and not just for that knowhow. The Nigerian could also act as a fail-safe for Matheus Cunha’s potential decision to depart as early as the January transfer window.

Whilst the Brazilian’s exit seems unlikely at this stage amid Arsenal’s reported interest, Wolves would be wise to prepare for the worst and welcome a player who could go on and cover for the goals that they’d so desperately miss.

When at his best, Iheanacho is more than capable of stealing the headlines, having earned Brendan Rodgers’ praise for doing exactly that in 2021.

The former Leicester City boss told reporters as relayed by The Independent: “He’s a talented player and I think of the difference in him tonight than when we played Crystal Palace last time. When we played them around the Christmas period, he wasn’t playing so much, and when you are a striker in particular that rhythm of games is important.”

West Ham United are interested in signing a “skilful” forward with 24 goals during the 2024/25 season, according to Fabrizio Romano.

West Ham eyeing new attacker in January

Graham Potter picked up his first win as West Ham boss on Tuesday evening, with the Irons defeating Fulham 3-2 at the London Stadium.

The Hammers went into the game without a recognised centre-forward, with Mohammed Kudus, Carlos Soler, Tomas Soucek and Lucas Paqueta making up the front four.

Soler, Soucek and Paqueta all got on the scoresheet, though, with West Ham currently without Niclas Fullkrug, Jarrod Bowen and Michail Antonio. Fullkrug was the latest attacker to pick up an injury, with Potter describing the German’s latest setback as “significant”.

“Fair to say it is a significant one. When a player pulls up like that, you know that something fairly serious has happened. It is still early in terms of full diagnosis but nevertheless a significant one, and a number of weeks. A number of weeks probably leads up to months, yes.”

Asked whether or not Fullkrug’s injury will result in West Ham bringing in a new striker before the deadline, Potter said that there is a “logical rational to do something”.

“I would not say [it is] imperative. Obviously with the situation with Mic as well, there is certainly a logical rational to do something. But it is not quite as simple as that. I would not want to make the wrong decision or do something for the sake of it in this window.”

West Ham now in pole position to sign "experienced" Rangers attacker

He’s enjoying an impressive season…

By
Tom Cunningham

Jan 15, 2025

A number of forwards have been linked with moves to the London Stadium in recent days, including Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford.

Nottingham Forest’s Taiwo Awoniyi is another under consideration, whereas West Ham had a recent bid rejected for Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran, and are planning a January loan bid for Marseille striker Elye Wahi.

The club also appear to have one eye on the future and have been linked with an up-and-coming gem who has been scoring with ease in 2024/25.

West Ham interested in Celtic forward Daniel Cummings

According to Romano, West Ham are keen on signing Celtic forward Daniel Cummings, who is out of contract with the Hoops this year. The Hammers aren’t the only side interested in Cummings, though, with Brighton & Hove Albion also named by Romano.

The 18-year-old appears to be a star in the making with 24 goals in 24 games for Celtic at youth level, and he has previously attracted the interest of Burnley, Fulham, Ipswich Town, Sunderland and Wolves.

Cummings, dubbed “skilful” and “resilient” by The Young Team, could also cost just £250,000 in cross-border compensation, and by the looks of things, a move to the London Stadium is one to keep an eye on in 2025.

Everything you need to know about Florian Wirtz's salary details playing for Bayer Leverkusen

German midfielder Florian Wirtz is undeniably one of Europe's most exciting talents. Rising through Bayer Leverkusen's ranks, he made his first-team debut for the Bundesliga club in 2021.

Delivering stellar performances season after season, Wirtz spearheaded Bayer to a groundbreaking 2023-24 campaign, clinching their first-ever Bundesliga title and breaking Bayern Munich's long-standing reign. Under Xabi Alonso's guidance, Wirtz was arguably Bayer’s standout player throughout the season.

In 2022, the German star committed to a five-year contract with the club, receiving a lucrative package for his invaluable contributions. Despite strong interest from top European clubs, he remains loyal to Leverkusen.

Just how much does he earn at the Bundesliga outfit, though?

GOAL delved into the figures with Capology to uncover the details!

*

• Florian Wirtz's wages at Bayer Leverkusen in numbers

  Under Wirtz's current contract with the German team, he earns a substantial £72,368 ($94,735) weekly, with his annual salary reaching an impressive £3.7 million ($4.9m).

  Despite his outstanding performances and unwavering commitment to Bayer, Wirtz surprisingly does not make it into the top-five highest earners at the club.

  Player	Nationality	Weekly wages in GBP	Weekly wages in USD	Annual wages in GBP	Annual wages in USD
  Florian Wirtz	German	£72,368	$94,735	£3,763,136	$4,926,198

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  Top earners at Bayer Leverkusen

  Leading Bayer Leverkusen's wage list is the talented French defender Nordi Mukiele, who joined the club in the summer of 2024.

  Close behind are fullback Alejandro Grimaldo and striker Patrik Schick, both earning the same wages. These two stars were instrumental in Bayer's championship-winning season.

  In fourth place is Edmond Tapsoba, followed by Argentine midfielder Exequiel Palacios, both earning equal wages.

  Player	Nationality	Weekly wages in GBP	Weekly wages in USD	Annual wages in GBP	Annual wages in USD
  Nordi Mukiele	French	£135,087	$176,838	£7,024,520	$9,195,569
  Alejandro Grimaldo	Spanish	£96,491	$126,313	£5,017,514	$6,568,264
  Patrik Schick	Czech	£96,491	$126,313	£5,017,514	$6,568,264
  Edmond Tapsoba	Burkinabe	£80,409	$105,261	£4,181,262	$5,473,553
  Exequiel Palacios	Argentine	£80,409	$105,261	£4,181,262	$<

• Top earners in Bundesliga

  Imagine a league where no Bayer player cracks the top-five highest-paid list. This starkly highlights Bayern Munich's financial dominance, as they lead the league with a staggering wage bill. In fact, the top thirteen earners in the Bundesliga are all Bayern stars, showcasing their unparalleled investment in talent. Borussia Dortmund's Niklas Sule only manages to break into the list at number fourteen.

  Player	Nationality	Weekly wages in GBP	Weekly wages in USD	Annual wages in GBP	Annual wages in USD
  Harry Kane	English	£402,044	$526,303	£20,906,308	$27,367,765
  Manuel Neuer	German	£337,717	$442,095	£17,561,299	$22,988,923
  Joshua Kimmich	German	£321,636	$421,043	£16,725,047	$21,894,212
  Jamal Musiala	German	£303,463	$397,254	£15,780,082	$20,657,189
  Serge Gnabry	German	£303,463	$397,254	£15,780,082	$

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  Highest paid players in the world

  Despite the substantial earnings of Bundesliga players, particularly Bayern's stars, they don't make it to the top five highest-paid players globally. This elite list is entirely dominated by Saudi Pro League players, with the legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo leading the pack.

  Following closely is his former Real Madrid teammate, Karim Benzema, in second place.

  Next, Riyad Mahrez secures the third spot, with Senegalese stars Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly completing the top five.

  Player	Club	Weekly wages GBP	Weekly wages USD	Annual wages GBP	Annual wages USD
  Cristiano Ronaldo	Al Nassr	£3,216,155	$4,210,425	£167,250,468	$218,942,120
  Karim Benzema	Al Ittihad	£1,608,178	$2,105,213	£83,625,234	$109,471,060
  Riyad Mahrez	Al Ahli	£839,469	$1,098,921	£45,652,372	$57,43,893
  Sadio Mane	Al Nassr	£643,271	$842,085	£33,450,094	$43,788,424
  Kalidou Koulibaly	Al Hilal	£558,038	$730,509	£29,017,956	$37,986,458

One of the more problematic positions in Manchester United’s squad so far under Ruben Amorim is left wing-back. The Red Devils have two natural left wing-backs in their squad, namely Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.

However, injuries have affected the pair, with the England international currently out and the Dutch star still regaining full fitness after 18 months on the sideline. Diogo Dalot is the man who has played there most under Amorim so far, featuring 11 times as a left wing-back under the new United boss. However, given he is right-footed, it is far from ideal.

Thus, it might not be a surprise that United are chasing someone to play wing-back, and are looking at a player with Premier League experience.

Man United's left wing-back target

The player in question here is Crystal Palace left-back Tyrick Mitchell. The 25-year-old has been an important player under Oliver Glasner this term, but, with his contract due to expire in the summer, his future is up in the air.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

According to a report from Rob Dawson of ESPN, United have made an enquiry about a potential move for Mitchell. It appears that this is a deal they would try and do this winter, rather than waiting until his contract expires in the summer.

However, they are not the only big Premier League side showing an interest in signing the defender. Earlier in the window, Football Insider reported Arsenal were considering a move, and in December the likes of Atletico Madrid and AC Milan were also interested.

Why Mitchell would be a good signing for Man United

Once again, it has been a solid season for Mitchell, despite Palace struggling for form under Glasner. He has been a key player, starting every single game in the Premier League and Carabao Cup, which is 26 in total.

Crucially, and one of the reasons United might want to sign Mitchell, is the fact he has played as a left wing-back for the Eagles this term. He has been productive there, too, with three assists in the top flight this term, including one against Brighton and Hove Albion in a 3-1 win in the derby.

He also just so happened to lock down man of the moment Amad when Glasner’s side met Erik ten Hag’s men earlier in the season. The score finished 0-0 with the Ivorian failing to get the better of Mitchell, who won six of his duels. In comparison, United’s star winger lost seven of his eight duels.

So, on that evidence, he’d be a pretty handy player to acquire. Meanwhile, should United bring Mitchell to Old Trafford this winter, he would likely be an alternative signing to another target, Patrick Dorgu. According to Fabrizio Romano, ‘club to club talks have already started’ between the Red Devils and the Dane’s club Lecce.

However, a deal is not a guarantee at this stage, hence the focus from United on a wide range of wing-backs. Dorgu has played 22 times for Lecce this season, mainly as a right winger, and has three goals to his name in Serie A, to go along with his two strikes last term.

There are some differences between the Palace star and the 20-year-old Dane. One of the biggest is the fact Mitchell is perhaps better than his counterpart defensively, with football analyst Ben Mattinson describing him as a “solid lockdown defender”.

In fact, Mitchell’s superior defensive ability is reflected in the FBref stats, over the course of the last two domestic seasons. For example, the Englishman has averaged 3.53 tackles and interceptions per game compared to 2.93 for Dorgu.

In terms of the quality on the ball, there is not too much of a drop-off. The Eagles star averages 2.46 progressive passes and 1.32 progressive carries each game, whereas the 20-year-old Lecce man averages 2.69 progressive passes and 2.69 progressive carries.

Signing Mitchell would certainly not be a terrible move for the Red Devils. Not only is he a great defender, better than Dorgu statistically, but is also good on the ball and can create chances, as his three assists this term suggests.

He is a ready-made, Premier League quality wing-back who could be a great value solution for Amorim. This might be a fantastic signing from United this winter.

He's way better than Dorgu: Man Utd plotting move to sign £51m PL star

Manchester United are planning on strengthening in the January transfer window.

By
Angus Sinclair

Jan 21, 2025

Chelsea are planning on sending more wonderkids to Liam Rosenior's Strasbourg following the success of Andrey Santos.

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• Santos to leave Strasbourg and return to Chelsea
• Blues impressed by Brazilian's displays in France
• Clubs connected by ownership group

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Strasbourg, the sister club of Chelsea, are once again set to be the beneficiaries of their ties with the Premier League giants, as two wonderkids in highly-rated Mathis Amougou and Kendry Paez could join the Ligue 1 outfit on a season-long loan deal ahead of the 2025-26 season.

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  Reports from L’Equipe suggest that Strasbourg may sign 19-year-old Amougou, a France youth international who joined Chelsea from Saint-Etienne in January. Since his move to Stamford Bridge, Amougou has had limited opportunities, making just two appearances for Chelsea with only 22 minutes of playing time. A loan move could further his development, as he could get regular minutes under Liam Rosenior in France. Additionally, L'Equipe also report that Ecuadorian prodigy Paez, who's currently training at Strasbourg, could also be sent on a season-long loan to Stade de la Meinau. Paez was signed from Independiente del Valle in 2023 but officially join after his 18th birthday.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  Amougou's move to Strasbourg makes even more sense considering the fact that Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos would be returning to Chelsea after spending the 2024-25 season on loan under Rosenior. Blues manager Enzo Maresca is reportedly keen to assess Santos further during the upcoming Club World Cup, with the Italian seemingly impressed with his vital contributions from midfield at Strasbourg.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR CHELSEA?

  Chelsea and Strasbourg are both hoping to compete in next season's Champions League, though they would need approval from UEFA to both compete due to multi-club ownership rules.

The latest update on Ousmane Dembele's injury ahead of next week's Champions League semi-final second leg might spell bad news for Arsenal.

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• Dembele walked off in discomfort in first leg
• His participation for the return leg seemed to be in doubt
• Fresh medical update might be unfavourable for Arsenal

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Arsenal have been dealt a blow ahead of their Champions League semi-final second leg, as PSG’s latest medical update on Dembele strongly suggests the former will be fit to feature. The club described his condition as “progressing well,” a phrase that hints at his availability for the crucial clash, boosting Paris Saint-Germain’s attacking options at a pivotal moment.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  The Frenchman, according to journalist Fabrice Hawkins, was absent from team training on Thursday and was confirmed to be unavailable for this weekend's Ligue 1 clash against Strasbourg. Since the extent of Dembele's hamstring issue was unknown, there were fears in the French capital that their talisman might not feature in next week's return leg at Parc des Princes.

  However, PSG officially released a new update on Dembele, which will come as a huge boost to Les Parisiens' ambitions of reaching their first Champions League final since 2020. "Ousmane Dembele has strained his right hamstring. His condition is progressing well. A further assessment will be carried out shortly," the medical report read.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  Arsenal are dealing with an injury crisis of their own. Stars such as Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Riccardo Calafiori, and Jorginho are currently recovering from their respective injuries on the sidelines, while Thomas Partey was also absent for the first leg.

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  WHAT NEXT?

  Although the extent of Dembele's hamstring sprain is not that severe, it remains to be seen what role he'll play in the second leg. Should his recovery not go as planned, it's highly unlikely that he'll start for Luis Enrique. Fans will be desperately anticipating further updates on the 27-year-old's fitness in the coming days.

Newcastle United have reportedly been offered the chance to sign a “tricky” attacking player who has been compared to Arjen Robben in the past.

Newcastle transfer news

The Magpies are believed to be pushing to beat Tottenham to the signing of Southampton youngster Tyler Dibling, who has been a breath of fresh air in a struggling Saints side in the Premier League this season. He would be an exciting long-term addition for Eddie Howe, having such a high ceiling in the game.

Illia Zabarnyi is enjoying an outstanding season at the heart of Bournemouth’s defence and Newcastle are reportedly eyeing a move for him, as they look to strengthen their centre-back options. He has started all 23 of the Cherries’ league games in 2024/25 to date, excelling alongside the equally impressive Dean Huijsen.

AC Milan wide man Noah Okafor has been linked with a move to the Magpies in the past, and the Serie A giants would be willing to allow him to leave in the January transfer window, due to their financial restrictions. He isn’t the only one of their players in that position, however, with another individual also linked with a switch to St James’ Park for the same reason.

Newcastle given chance to sign "tricky" Milan winger

According to Calciomercato, Milan have offered Newcastle the opportunity to sign winger Samuel Chukwueze, as they look to drum up funds for new signings. He is believed to be happy where he is, though, which could make it a tricky deal to agree for the £82,000-a-week man.

Not only that, but the Magpies are not alone in being given the chance to sign the Nigeria international, with fellow Premier League trio Everton, Crystal Palace and Tottenham also in the same boat.

With Miguel Almiron completing a move back to Atalanta United this week, Newcastle are in need of a new right winger, both in terms of squad depth to help Jacob Murphy, and to bring in an upgrade on both he and the departed Paraguayan.

Chukwueze could be ideal in that respect, proving to be a hugely exciting winger capable of creating and scoring with his left foot, with football talent scout Jacek Kulig comparing him to Robben and calling him “tricky”.

At 25 years of age, Newcastle wouldn’t be taking a risk on a player whose peak isn’t far away either, and they could even get the best years of his career, with plenty of time to still mature.

The fact that Chukwueze reportedly doesn’t want to leave Milan is a clear stumbling block, but if Howe feels he is a perfect option to replace Almiron with, the hope is that he can sell the Nigerian the idea of moving to St James’.

Having missed out on Yoane Wissa during the January transfer window, Nottingham Forest are now reportedly battling to sign a different Premier League forward who has been in fine form in recent weeks.

Nottingham Forest transfer news

Whilst it’s easy to assume that a side which just scored a stunning seven goals against Brighton & Hove Albion need anything but attacking reinforcements, Chris Wood’s age has far from reflected his form this season.

At 33 years old, the New Zealand striker has arguably been better than ever, scoring 17 Premier League goals this season, but that does not mean he can go on forever. Forest, perhaps more than most, seem to be well aware of that.

John Percy now drops huge Nottingham Forest update on Nuno's contract

It comes with the Garibaldi flying in the Premier League.

By
Ben Browning

Feb 5, 2025

Those at the City Ground even reportedly turned their attention towards an eventual replacement for Wood during the January transfer window when they attempted to sign both Matheus Cunha and Brentford’s Wissa. Although both deals failed to advance, the intention was certainly there and will likely remain as the summer transfer window approaches.

Those in the Midlands still found a way to keep themselves busy on deadline day too, signing Joel Ndala on loan from Manchester City in a last-gasp swoop for Nuno Espirito Santo.

Welcoming the young forward, Head of Football Development & Talent Management Craig Mulholland told Forest’s website: “We are delighted that Joel will be joining us here at Forest.

“He is an exciting young talent who our recruitment team have tracked for some time. We wish him well for this next exciting chapter in his career, and all of our excellent staff are looking forward to working with him.”

The young forward represents a short-term option before Forest could solve their problem permanently this summer. According to Graeme Bailey for The Boot Room, Nottingham Forest are now battling to sign Jean-Philippe Mateta this summer, as he continues to deliberate over signing a new contract at Crystal Palace.

"Amazing" Mateta could replace Wood

With Wissa and Cunha seemingly out of reach, Nottingham Forest would be wise to turn their attention towards another proven Premier League star in Mateta, especially in the face of his contract doubts.

The forward has eased any concerns that last season was a freak campaign by following up his 16-goal haul with another 10 and counting in the current campaign. Now, he could have Champions League football in his sights.

In the face of such interest, Palace boss Oliver Glasner will not be keen to lose his star man having praised him so highly following a well-timed brace in victory over Manchester United. The Austrian told reporters: “We don’t always talk because he knows what we demand of him. With his two goals today, he is amazing in the box.

“He has the feeling that a number nine must have in the box. He makes so many runs where he doesn’t get the ball. You need to suffer as a striker because you make so many runs where you don’t get the ball. He gets the reward and it decides the game for us.”