Leigh Curtis

Seventeen-year-old Aston Villa striker Brian Madjo attracted widespread praise after scoring on his competitive debut against Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup. His goal made him the youngest scorer in the competition’s history, while his physicality, movement and resilience prompted comparisons with Romelu Lukaku and Didier Drogba. Villa had previously fought FIFA restrictions over his registration after signing him from Metz, but the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled in the club’s favour because Madjo was born in England. Media figures and Villa teammates now believe he could become a major prospect for club and country, with some suggesting he may eventually challenge for an England senior call-up.

Brian Madjo became the youngest player to score in a European Super Cup final when the 17-year-old scored for Aston Villa against Paris Saint-Germain in Salzburg. Former Villa defender Alan Hutton praised Madjo's positioning, resilience and ability to trouble defenders. The goal followed Aston Villa's successful appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which overturned FIFA's block on registering Madjo after his £10 million transfer from Metz because he was born in England and is a UK citizen.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says the club remains highly active in the transfer market and expects further movement as it seeks to defend its Premier League title. Arsenal are linked with Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, while Bruno Guimaraes is reportedly expected to join. Liverpool are also interested in Konsa, whom former defender Jason McAteer praises as an experienced, versatile Premier League centre-back. Aston Villa may resist selling but could consider a substantial offer, reportedly around £80 million, amid wider squad changes.

Birmingham City are reportedly close to an agreement with Palermo for Danish-American full-back Kristoffer Lund, although it remains unclear whether the transfer will be permanent or a loan. Lund developed at FC Midtjylland, won the Swedish top-flight title with BK Häcken in 2022, became a USMNT international at Palermo and impressed during a Bundesliga loan at 1. FC Köln. His pace, athleticism and crossing make him an attacking replacement for departed left-back Kai Wagner, though his aggressive positioning can leave space for counterattacks.

Luciano Spalletti is considering giving Douglas Luiz a renewed opportunity at Juventus after the midfielder’s challenging loan spell at Aston Villa and injury‑affected period in Turin. Reports indicate Spalletti plans to evaluate Luiz closely in preseason, believing his technical ability and tactical awareness could suit a deep‑lying playmaker role in the coach’s possession‑based system. Despite multiple muscular injuries since his move to Italy, Juventus will assess Luiz before their August tour, with Spalletti viewing him as a potential key asset if he can regain form.

Sam Hudson, formerly of Aston Villa and most recently at Portsmouth, has joined Newcastle United as an academy individual development coach. His move follows restructuring within Portsmouth’s academy, including staff departures and role changes. Hudson announced the appointment on social media as he prepares for his 14th season in coaching.

Lucas Bergvall addressed speculation about his future after emerging as a transfer target for Aston Villa, Chelsea, Nottingham Forest and Bayern Munich. The midfielder said his priority is securing regular playing time but has focused on the World Cup, where Sweden lost to France. Tottenham are reportedly unwilling to sell despite limited opportunities for Bergvall following new midfield arrivals under Roberto De Zerbi. He remains under contract until 2031.