Louis Sealey

Chelsea are discussing the sale of Nicolas Jackson for around £65 million after new manager Xabi Alonso placed him in a training group away from the first team. Jackson, signed from Villarreal for £32 million in 2023, returned from an unsuccessful loan spell at Bayern Munich after the Bundesliga club declined to make the move permanent. Aston Villa and Tottenham have shown interest, while Chelsea are reportedly in talks with Napoli. Manchester United have also been advised to consider the Senegal international, who has scored regularly but is no longer viewed as part of Alonso’s long-term plans.

Viktor Gyökeres is reportedly considering leaving Arsenal after concerns that Mikel Arteta’s preference for Kai Havertz, combined with Arsenal’s pursuit of Victor Osimhen, could limit his playing time. Spanish outlet COPE claims the Sweden striker has offered himself to Barcelona, whose representatives are reportedly seeking a meeting with transfer chief Deco. Gyökeres has publicly said he remains focused on the new Premier League season, while Arsenal continue to explore attacking reinforcements despite resistance from Galatasaray and Atlético Madrid over Osimhen and Julián Álvarez.

Former Chelsea striker Carlton Cole says Morgan Rogers disrupted Arsenal’s transfer plans by choosing Chelsea after Arsenal had reportedly been close to signing him. Cole believes Arsenal still need a left-sided forward and identifies PSG’s Bradley Barcola as a potential target, although Arsenal are reluctant to meet the £140 million asking price. He backs Arsenal to win the Premier League again, ahead of Chelsea and Manchester City, while suggesting City may struggle without Pep Guardiola and Rodri.

Manchester United approached Barcelona midfielder Gavi after Barcelona signed Rodri from Manchester City for £65 million, but Gavi rejected the move and intends to remain at Barcelona. United are now pursuing Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba and have reportedly offered £65 million. The club needs midfield reinforcements following Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s long-term injury, having already signed Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos.

Joe Cole predicts Manchester City will dethrone Arsenal unless the defending champions sign a new No. 9, specifically backing Victor Osimhen as the transfer that could reverse his forecast. Carlton Cole says Osimhen would significantly strengthen Arsenal, while also tipping Chelsea to finish third under Xabi Alonso. Wayne Rooney considers Arsenal the favourites and believes they could run away with the Premier League title.

Chelsea have been offered the chance to sign AC Milan winger Rafael Leao for around €40 million (£34 million) after Arsenal and Manchester United ended their interest. Milan are seeking to reduce costs and have also approached Roma, while Chelsea could view Leao as a replacement for Pedro Neto if the Portuguese winger leaves. Leao has expressed a preference for a move to the Premier League, where he believes his style would be better suited.

Wayne Rooney predicts Manchester United will finish fourth in the Premier League, arguing that the club needs two or three more signings to remain competitive. He identifies defending champions Arsenal as favourites who could run away with the title after their Community Shield victory over Manchester City. Rooney expects City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham to improve or remain strong, making the top-four race more difficult, while viewing a United title challenge as unrealistic this season.

Wayne Rooney has urged Manchester United to reverse its decision and pursue Arsenal midfielder-left-back Myles Lewis-Skelly, who could reportedly be available for around £45 million. Rooney views the 19-year-old's versatility as an ideal solution to United's need for left-back cover and midfield depth, particularly given his concerns about Luke Shaw's consistency. He also believes United should sign another centre-back, central midfielder and centre-forward before the transfer window closes. Arsenal may consider selling Lewis-Skelly after signing Bruno Guimaraes, while Newcastle have reportedly ruled out a move for United target Lewis Hall.

Victor Osimhen would reportedly approve a move to Arsenal if Galatasaray agree to sell him. Arsenal are seeking a new striker after Viktor Gyökeres received criticism despite scoring 21 goals in his first season, while Galatasaray have rejected offers for Osimhen and maintain that they do not want to sell. Turkish journalist Serdar Ali Çelikler claims Osimhen would not reject Arsenal, and former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has said the striker wants to play in a top European league and compete for the Champions League. Arsenal remain interested before the transfer deadline, although manager Mikel Arteta said defensive reinforcements were the club’s immediate priority.

Jamie Carragher argues that Manchester United should have paid Tottenham's reported £85 million asking price for Mateus Fernandes instead of signing Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa for £35 million. He questions whether Fernandes was truly too expensive and says Tielemans's move felt like a delayed transfer that should have happened several years earlier. Manchester United have also signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea, but Paul Scholes believes the club may still need another central midfielder or centre-half as Michael Carrick prepares for the new Premier League season.

Arsenal began their season with an emphatic 3-0 Community Shield victory over Manchester City in Cardiff, with goals from Riccardo Calafiori, Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard. Despite the strong performance, Mikel Arteta said Arsenal still intend to strengthen defensively before the transfer window closes, particularly because William Saliba faces a long-term injury and Jurrien Timber is not yet ready to return. Arsenal are interested in Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa, valued at £60 million, and also admire former Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah.

Arsenal began their title defence with a 3-0 Community Shield win over Manchester City, with Myles Lewis-Skelly assisting Riccardo Calafiori's opener. His strong performance prompted Jamie Carragher to question reports that Arsenal may sell the 19-year-old for around £45 million. Ally McCoist also praised Lewis-Skelly, while Carragher urged Manchester City to retain Rodri amid speculation over a move to Barcelona.

Manchester United have reportedly placed Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae on their transfer list as they consider adding a centre-back before the summer window closes. The club is dealing with injuries to Lisandro Martinez and Leny Yoro, while Harry Maguire is approaching his 34th season. Despite previous links with Chelsea, Kim is said to be happy at Bayern and wants to fight for a starting place. Bayern are also keen to retain him because they need defensive depth for domestic and Champions League competition.

Arsenal remain determined to sign Victor Osimhen despite Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek reportedly insisting that the striker will not be sold at any price. Galatasaray have already rejected a €130 million bid from Al Hilal, while Arsenal view Osimhen as a more accessible alternative to Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez. Osimhen has scored 59 goals in 74 appearances for Galatasaray, but has kept his options open. The article also notes Galatasaray's interest in Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri, and Arsenal's mixed experience with Viktor Gyokeres.

Chelsea have completed an £18m deal to sign Spanish left-back Pep Chavarria from Rayo Vallecano on a five-year contract after Marc Cucurella moved to Real Madrid. The club are also pursuing Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, having had a £64m bid rejected and considering an improved offer for the 22-year-old, who is valued at about £80m. Chelsea’s interest could intensify if Enzo Fernandez leaves for Manchester City or Real Madrid, with Chelsea reportedly valuing the Argentina midfielder at £120m. Chavarria said he is excited to work under Xabi Alonso and believes his aggressive, high-intensity style suits the Premier League. Chelsea are seeking improvement after finishing 10th last season.

Arsenal are reportedly pursuing Barcelona defender Jules Koundé after Mikel Arteta approved a potential transfer. The move follows William Saliba’s serious back injury, which is expected to sideline him for an extended period, while Aston Villa’s £60 million valuation of Ezri Konsa has encouraged Arsenal to consider alternatives. Barcelona are reportedly willing to sell Koundé as they rebuild their defence and seek funds for other major transfers, though the defender must be persuaded to leave and Bayern Munich are also interested.

Chelsea are reportedly seeking a very large bid for Pedro Neto after Arsenal approached about signing the winger. Neto was excluded from Chelsea’s summer list of untouchable players but remains highly regarded, with the club previously reported to value him at around £70 million. Arsenal are looking for another winger after Leandro Trossard’s departure and missing out on Vinicius Junior, while Gabriel Martinelli could also leave. Former Arsenal striker Jeremie Aliadiere has recommended Neto as an experienced alternative, but urged the club to balance its transfer spending after signing Christos Tzolis.

Arsenal have received an approach from Galatasaray for Gabriel Martinelli after completing a £75 million deal for Bruno Guimaraes and signing winger Christos Tzolis for £34 million. Martinelli, who scored once in 30 Premier League appearances last season, could leave if Arsenal recruit another winger, although the club is reportedly reluctant to sell after failing to sign Vinicius Junior. Alan Smith supported a possible Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus departure but criticised Arsenal’s decision to let Leandro Trossard join Besiktas.

Andrey Santos says Manchester United are a step up from Chelsea after completing a reported £48 million transfer. The Brazil international, who made 43 appearances for Chelsea last season, has quickly settled at United and hopes to remain there long term. He expects to operate as a deep-lying midfielder and help replace the departing Casemiro, while United prepare for the Premier League season under Michael Carrick after qualifying for the Champions League.

Arsenal’s £75 million signing of Bruno Guimaraes has raised questions about Martin Zubimendi’s future after the midfielder lost his place late last season. Real Madrid are reportedly considering a renewed approach, while Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is said to be urging his club to sign the former Real Sociedad player. Arsenal would reportedly demand at least €90 million (£77 million) to sell, although Jamie Carragher believes Guimaraes’s arrival could prevent Zubimendi from reclaiming his midfield role.

After Arsenal missed out on Vinicius Junior, who agreed a new six-year contract with Real Madrid, former Arsenal defender William Gallas has urged the club to consider Marcus Rashford. Rashford is expected to return to Manchester United after a loan spell at Barcelona, but United are reportedly willing to sell him for around £40 million to clubs other than Manchester City and Liverpool. Gallas believes Rashford would add quality to Arsenal’s attack, although a transfer depends on United’s willingness to sell and the player finding a new club.

Arsenal are reportedly pushing hard to sign Tottenham defender Cristian Romero, who is valued at about £42 million and wants to leave Spurs after repeated relegation battles. Atlético Madrid are believed to lead the race, while Chelsea and AC Milan have also shown interest. Arsenal are seeking defensive cover after William Saliba suffered a back injury expected to keep him out for an extended period. The club have also considered Ezri Konsa and John Stones, amid a relatively subdued transfer window.

Arsenal are reportedly close to signing Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes for £75 million as they seek to defend their Premier League title and compete in the Champions League. Jamie Carragher questions the transfer and believes it could end Martin Zubimendi’s Arsenal career, while praising Sandro Tonali as a better midfield option. Carragher also remains uncertain about how Mikel Arteta will balance Guimaraes and Declan Rice. Former Chelsea midfielder Claude Makelele offers a more positive assessment, saying Guimaraes fits Arsenal’s ambitions and style perfectly.

Arsenal are reportedly pursuing a third major signing alongside planned deals for Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior and Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes. The club has reportedly agreed terms with Newcastle and scheduled Guimaraes’s medical, while Arsenal are attempting to persuade Vinicius to leave Real Madrid amid a contract dispute. Arsenal are also seeking a central defender to cover for William Saliba, who faces an extended absence after suffering a back injury during the World Cup. Ezri Konsa is identified as a remaining defensive target after John Stones joined Inter Milan.

Arsenal are reportedly pursuing Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior, with Mikel Arteta said to have personally contacted him and promised that the team would largely be built around him at the Emirates. Vinicius is entering the final year of his contract, but his preference remains to stay in Madrid and negotiations over a renewal are reportedly stalled. Former Arsenal player Paul Merson doubts the transfer will happen, arguing that Vinicius may be using Arsenal's interest to improve his Real Madrid contract, while warning that Arsenal need a left winger after Leandro Trossard's departure.

Arsenal have approached Chelsea about signing João Pedro and indicated they could pay €100 million (£86 million), but Chelsea rejected the proposal. Chelsea regard the Brazil striker as an untouchable player and are preparing a contract extension with a substantial pay rise. Pedro scored 20 goals last season and is competing successfully with Liam Delap, while Arsenal continue to explore other targets including Julian Alvarez, Bruno Guimarães and Vinícius Júnior.

Mateus Fernandes says daily conversations with Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi and encouragement from former Sporting teammate Pedro Porro were decisive in his choice to leave West Ham for Tottenham rather than join Manchester United. The Portuguese midfielder joined Spurs for a club-record £85 million and scored on his pre-season debut, though he was later rested as a precaution. Tottenham have two further friendlies before opening their Premier League campaign against Brentford.

Chelsea have opened talks with Atalanta over Italy defender Giorgio Scalvini, who is valued at around £42 million and is also attracting interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United. The move follows Chelsea’s signing of Danny Welbeck from Brighton on a two-year contract, while manager Xabi Alonso plans further recruitment and the sale of several central defenders. The article also reports that Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia has invested in Be Your Best, an Oslo-based football technology company focused on virtual-reality cognitive training.

Manchester United are reportedly investigating a summer move for Arsenal and England teenager Myles Lewis-Skelly, but Arsenal currently prefer to keep the versatile midfielder. The situation could change if Arsenal sign Bruno Guimaraes and Vinicius Junior and decide to reduce their squad. Lewis-Skelly regained prominence late in the 2025–26 season after initially struggling for playing time, and Mikel Arteta admitted he may have delayed using him in midfield.

Argentinian media and pundits criticised FIFA for awarding Spain’s Rodri the World Cup Golden Ball instead of Lionel Messi after Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final. Journalist Antonio Serpa called the decision insensitive, arguing Messi’s performances merited the honor. Spain’s Rodri, Pau Cubarsi and Unai Simon collected major awards, while Kylian Mbappe won the Golden Boot. Wayne Rooney and Alan Shearer questioned the fairness of counting goals scored in the third‑place play‑off. Zlatan Ibrahimovic praised Messi’s overall tournament despite Argentina falling short.

Nicolas Otamendi confronted Spain captain Rodri after Argentina’s 1-0 World Cup final loss, accusing Spain players of influencing referees following prior officiating complaints by Aymeric Laporte. A late red card for Enzo Fernandez and an extra‑time goal from Ferran Torres secured Spain’s second World Cup title. Post‑match clashes involved several players, while manager Luis de la Fuente praised Spain’s achievement and resilience throughout the tournament.

Argentinian broadcaster TyC Sports issued harsh ratings for four Argentina players following a 1‑0 World Cup final loss to Spain, criticising Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Giuliano Simeone and Nahuel Molina for major errors and ineffective performances. Spain dominated the match and secured victory through an extra‑time goal by Ferran Torres after Fernandez’s late red card left Argentina with ten men. Lionel Scaloni expressed sadness over the defeat but praised his team’s commitment throughout the tournament.

Gary Neville argued that England’s World Cup campaign was hindered by Declan Rice’s injury and illness, limiting the midfielder’s influence during the tournament. He praised England’s run to the semi-finals and highlighted strong performances from Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane and Djed Spence. Rice expressed pride in the team’s third‑place finish despite disappointment over the loss to Argentina, stressing that England are close to achieving major tournament success.

Dwight Yorke says Manchester United ignored his recommendations to hire Unai Emery and sign Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise, both of whom have since become top performers after leaving Crystal Palace. He urges the club to move for Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who impressed for Morocco at the World Cup, arguing he has the talent to become the centrepiece of United’s midfield rebuild.

Bryan Robson urges Manchester United to compete with Arsenal for Bruno Guimaraes after Newcastle rejected an initial £45m approach and reportedly set a valuation of up to £100m. Robson sees Guimaraes as an ideal replacement for Casemiro, while Manchester United continue to strengthen their midfield following recent signings and injury issues. Dwight Yorke questions whether Guimaraes offers the quality needed to elevate United despite acknowledging his work ethic and solid performances at Newcastle.

Graeme Souness sharply criticises Declan Rice following England’s World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina, arguing the Arsenal midfielder lacks creativity and ranks far below players like Rodri. He describes Rice as limited and unlikely to improve, contrasting him with more influential midfielders. John Terry defends Rice, insisting his role is to shield the defence rather than create chances. Questions over England’s midfield setup persist as Rice’s fitness issues leave him unlikely to feature in the third‑place play‑off.

Kobbie Mainoo did not feature for England during the World Cup despite expectations he would play, with Thomas Tuchel reportedly unimpressed by his training performances and instead preferring other midfield options even as Declan Rice struggled with injury and illness. Reece James and Jordan Henderson were used in midfield ahead of Mainoo, leading to frustration within the squad and criticism from former players such as Gary Neville, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt. Some argue Mainoo could have helped England retain control during their semifinal loss to Argentina, but others believe it would now be unfair to involve him after being overlooked throughout the tournament.

Nicky Butt urges England to prioritise youth development following their World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, calling for 16-year-old Arsenal midfielder Max Dowman to be fast-tracked into the national team and played consistently to build a winning mentality. He argues England must accept losing the next major tournament to prepare a squad capable of success in 2030. Paul Scholes supports the view that Dowman will feature prominently in future competitions, while Thomas Tuchel defends his tactical decisions and points to deeper structural issues in English football’s style and mentality.

Eden Hazard defends Senne Lammens after the goalkeeper’s mistake led to Belgium’s World Cup quarter-final loss to Spain, emphasising his quality and resilience. Thibaut Courtois also offers support, stressing that such moments are part of football. Lammens is highlighted for his strong season with Manchester United and positive recognition from Sir Alex Ferguson, while Hazard reflects on Belgium’s overall performance and the backing from fans.

Chelsea are considering replacements for Alejandro Garnacho, who is close to joining Roma after an underwhelming season. Former midfielder Andy Townsend believes Marcus Rashford, available after Barcelona declined a permanent deal, would strengthen Chelsea’s squad. Rashford’s wages are noted as a potential obstacle, but his form and experience at top clubs are seen as strong factors in favour of a transfer. Chelsea’s new manager Xabi Alonso has begun his tenure as the club assesses its options in the transfer market.

Arsenal prepare to replace Leandro Trossard following his sale to Besiktas by moving toward a £34 million transfer for Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis, who is reportedly keen on joining the Premier League champions. Trossard departed after four seasons and 174 appearances, prompting Arsenal to pursue additional attacking options. Tzolis, who has excelled in Belgium, is expected to become the club’s third summer signing, with further reinforcements targeted as Arsenal look to maintain their advantage over rivals such as Manchester City and Liverpool.

Thierry Henry revealed Marcus Rashford was originally set to be substituted on before Anthony Gordon’s opening goal in England’s World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina, a moment that prompted Thomas Tuchel to switch to an early defensive setup. Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimovic criticised Tuchel for moving to a back five too soon, arguing it surrendered control and invited Argentine pressure that led to two late goals. Argentina’s tactical adjustments under Lionel Scaloni were credited for the comeback, securing their place in the World Cup final against Spain.

Argentina reached the World Cup final after a late comeback to beat England 2-1, with manager Lionel Scaloni saying his team sensed England were losing confidence. England led through Anthony Gordon before becoming overly defensive, allowing Argentina to dominate and equalise via Enzo Fernandez before Lautaro Martinez scored the winner in injury time. Emiliano Martinez criticised England’s retreat after their goal. Argentina now prepare to face Spain as they aim for consecutive World Cup titles.

Iker Casillas sharply criticised England for adopting a defensive approach after taking the lead in their World Cup semi‑final against Argentina, arguing that their passivity invited pressure and led directly to their late defeat. Enzo Fernandez equalised before Lautaro Martinez completed Argentina’s comeback, prompting further criticism from former England striker Chris Sutton, who labelled Thomas Tuchel’s tactical decisions a coaching failure. The loss ends England’s campaign and sends Argentina to a final against Spain.

Argentina reached the World Cup final after coming from behind to defeat England, with Valentin Barco criticised for celebrating provocatively in front of the England bench. Pundits highlighted England’s decision to sit back after taking the lead, allowing Argentina to seize momentum and complete their comeback through goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez. Post-match reactions from former players pointed to frustration over England abandoning their effective early approach, while acknowledging Argentina’s resilience and deserved progression.

Chelsea have opened talks with Roma over signing France midfielder Manu Kone, challenging Manchester United, who have also been negotiating with the player’s representatives as part of their search for midfield reinforcements. Arsenal had previous interest, while Chelsea’s discussions came during talks for Alejandro Garnacho’s potential departure. Chelsea are targeting midfield additions as Enzo Fernandez seeks to leave and Andrey Santos has joined United. Roma value Kone at around £51 million following his strong World Cup performances for France.

Chris Waddle advises Arsenal to abandon their pursuit of Bruno Guimaraes, arguing the midfielder’s age, contract demands and high asking price make the transfer poor value. Despite Guimaraes expressing interest in a move and Arsenal having made an initial rejected offer, Newcastle’s valuation near £100m and the player’s desire for a long-term deal are cited as major obstacles. Waddle believes Newcastle could still sell if the contract is not improved but expects the fee to deter many clubs.

Rodri praised Spain’s dominant World Cup semi-final win over France but criticised referee Iván Barton for not adequately protecting Lamine Yamal, who he said was repeatedly fouled without calls. Spain advanced 2-0 through goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro, while France failed to meet expectations despite entering as favourites. Patrick Vieira acknowledged France’s poor performance and Spain’s tactical superiority. Spain will face either Argentina or England in the final in New York.

Spain advanced to the World Cup final after a dominant 2-0 victory over France, secured through goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro and backed by a strong defensive record. Manager Luis de la Fuente called his side the best team in the world, praising their commitment and quality. France struggled to create chances in Didier Deschamps’ final tournament, while pundit Roy Keane described Spain’s performance as exceptional. Spain will face either England or Argentina in the final as they aim for their second World Cup title.

Manchester United are pursuing additional transfers after signing Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Karl Darlow, with the club targeting a third midfielder along with a winger and a forward. Manu Kone is under consideration following unsuccessful attempts to sign other midfield targets, while several wide and attacking options are being monitored. Tielemans expressed pride at joining the club as former players and leadership praised his quality and value as United continue strengthening ahead of the new season.

Spain advanced to the World Cup final after a dominant win over France, with pundits highlighting Spain’s pressing, work rate and technical superiority. Chris Sutton criticized Ousmane Dembele and France’s attacking stars for ineffective performances, while Gary Neville praised Spain’s full-backs and overall tactical control. Spain await the winner of England versus Argentina in the final.

Alexis Mac Allister clarifies earlier remarks downplaying England’s World Cup chances, explaining his comments were made jokingly and acknowledging England’s quality ahead of Argentina’s semi‑final against them. He says he is not surprised by England’s run, praising their players and coaching, while affirming Argentina’s respect for their opponents. Both teams enter the semi‑final after narrow knockout-stage wins and strong tournament performances.

England face Argentina in the World Cup semi-final as manager Thomas Tuchel considers changes to his starting lineup, particularly on the right wing after Noni Madueke’s poor performance against Norway. Former internationals Darren Bent and Gabby Agbonlahor argue Madueke should be dropped, with Bukayo Saka or Marcus Rashford proposed as stronger alternatives. England’s progress, individual player form and tactical options dominate the discussion ahead of the match.

Paul Scholes predicts a chaotic, high-scoring World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, backing England to win 4–3 despite acknowledging Argentina’s greater big‑game experience. He believes both teams have underperformed but sees England’s squad as stronger. Scholes doubts England can beat France in a potential final, suggesting Spain would need to eliminate the tournament favourites for England to have a realistic chance at winning the World Cup.

Nicky Butt and Paul Scholes express concern over Kobbie Mainoo’s lack of playing time ahead of England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina, arguing that introducing him now could be detrimental due to limited recent action. With Declan Rice facing fitness issues and Jordan Henderson recovering from a broken arm, Thomas Tuchel’s midfield options are under scrutiny. Henderson is praised for his leadership despite injury, while anticipation builds for England’s matchup featuring Lionel Messi’s first-ever meeting with England.

Manchester United signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £48 million on a five‑year deal, with the 22‑year‑old midfielder calling the move an incredible opportunity and praising Michael Carrick as the ideal coach to elevate his game. United turned to Santos after missing out on other midfield targets, while club director Jason Wilcox highlighted his technical quality, experience and significant potential. Chelsea issued well‑wishes following his departure as United continue plans to strengthen their midfield this summer.

Ruben Amorim is looking to strengthen AC Milan by targeting Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui, whom he previously praised as a key player during his time at Old Trafford. While earlier interest in Manuel Ugarte, Mason Mount and Amad Diallo will not lead to transfers this summer, Mazraoui remains one of Amorim’s preferred options, though no negotiations have begun. Amorim reflected on mistakes made during his Manchester United tenure as he starts his new role at Milan, who finished fifth in Serie A while United rose to third under Michael Carrick.

Chelsea have submitted a £21m bid for Real Madrid left‑back Alvaro Carreras at the request of new manager Xabi Alonso, who previously worked with the player in Madrid. The offer was rejected, with Madrid reportedly valuing Carreras at around €50m despite increased competition following Marc Cucurella’s arrival. Carreras is said to prefer staying at Madrid, but Alonso hopes to lure him with the prospect of regular playing time after Chelsea’s poor tenth‑place Premier League finish.

Jannik Sinner defended his Wimbledon title with a four-set victory over Alexander Zverev, becoming the tenth man to win consecutive championships at the tournament and securing his 100th Grand Slam match win. Analysts praised his composure and shot-making, drawing comparisons to Novak Djokovic, whom Sinner also defeated in the semifinals without losing serve. Zverev, appearing in his first Wimbledon final, commended Sinner and reflected positively on his own recent progress, including his French Open win. Sinner acknowledged his team’s preparation, highlighted the absence of Carlos Alcaraz, and celebrated achieving back-to-back titles at the All England Club.

Arsenal are renewing efforts to sign Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez while progressing in negotiations for Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes. Alvarez is open to joining despite preferring to remain in Spain, though Atletico’s valuation of more than £100m may hinder a deal. Arsenal have already had a £45m verbal offer for Guimaraes rejected but remain confident after agreeing personal terms. The club is also monitoring Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers as they seek further reinforcements following their Premier League title win.

England's progression to the World Cup semi-finals prompted Rio Ferdinand to revise his tournament prediction, now backing England to win after previously favouring France and then Spain. Gary Neville believes England have a major opportunity despite Argentina's threat, while Ian Wright views Argentina as less formidable than France or Spain. Roy Keane expects England to fall short against Argentina, citing their ability to edge tight games.

Wayne Rooney predicts England can reach the World Cup final but warns they will fall short in the semi‑finals unless their performance improves after a narrow extra‑time win over Norway. Jude Bellingham scored twice to secure England’s place in the last four, where they will face either Argentina or Switzerland. Rooney supported Thomas Tuchel’s post‑match criticism, stressing that England must show more quality to overcome stronger opponents. He tipped an England–France final and highlighted Bellingham’s decisive influence throughout the tournament.

Jude Bellingham reacted tersely to manager Thomas Tuchel’s criticism following England’s 2-1 extra-time win over Norway in the World Cup quarter-finals in Miami. Tuchel praised the result but condemned the team’s technical errors and sloppy play. Bellingham, who scored both goals, defended the players’ effort, while Gary Neville framed the tension between player and manager as a positive sign of high standards within the squad. England advance to face either Argentina or Switzerland, with France set to meet Spain in the other semi-final.

Jermaine Jenas expects France to fall short of winning the World Cup despite their dominant performances, backing Spain as the team most likely to stop them. France have impressed throughout the tournament with strong results and key contributions from Kylian Mbappe but face further challenges ahead. Spain’s recent progress boosts their credentials, and Marcel Desailly predicts France will still prevail if they avoid injuries. Other major contenders, including England and Argentina, remain in contention as the knockout rounds continue.

Troy Deeney argues that England have yet to deliver a convincing World Cup performance and warns that although they should overcome Norway in the quarter-finals, Argentina would likely end their campaign in the semi-finals. He criticises England’s lack of dominance under Thomas Tuchel and highlights Norway’s physicality and organisation as potential challenges, while noting Argentina’s resilience in their comeback win over Egypt. England remain among the bookmakers’ top contenders but trail France, Spain and Argentina.

Arthur Fery reached the Wimbledon semi-finals with a dominant win over Flavio Cobolli and received personal congratulations from Queen Camilla, who encouraged him to keep going ahead of his next match against Alexander Zverev. Fery described the encounter as special and said he hopes to reach the final on his birthday. His run marks the first time in 25 years that a men’s wildcard has reached the Wimbledon semi-finals, while the other semi-final will feature Jannik Sinner against Novak Djokovic.

Novak Djokovic criticised Wimbledon officials for closing the Centre Court roof during his quarter-final against Felix Auger-Aliassime, arguing the timing was inconsistent with previous decisions. Several former players supported his view, though Tim Henman suggested officials aimed to time the interruption at the end of a set. Despite the dispute, Djokovic regained momentum to win in a five-set tie-break and advance to a semi-final meeting with defending champion Jannik Sinner.

Arsene Wenger argues France are the strongest contenders to win the World Cup and identifies Spain as the only team with the technical quality and collective style capable of challenging them. France enters the quarter‑finals after a dominant run, while Spain recovered from an early setback to advance. Upcoming knockout fixtures include Spain facing Belgium, England meeting Norway, and Argentina preparing for a possible semifinal. Wenger highlights physical intensity and technical ability as decisive factors in the tournament.

Andy Roddick responded to Alex de Minaur’s emotional comments following his straight‑sets Wimbledon defeat to Flavio Cobolli, agreeing that the Australian missed a major opportunity given his favourable draw. De Minaur expressed feeling broken and worried that his Grand Slam dreams were slipping away. Roddick praised his professionalism but criticised repeated mistakes on his second serve and noted that the open field increased the sting of the loss. Cobolli advances to face Arthur Fery in the quarter-finals.

Erling Haaland’s father says the striker is happy at Manchester City but suggests a move to Real Madrid remains possible, noting that many players would want to join the Spanish club. Haaland strengthened his status as one of the World Cup’s top performers by scoring twice to send Norway past Brazil, prompting further transfer speculation. Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme recently claimed he would sign Haaland if elected, while Carlo Ancelotti expressed disappointment after Brazil’s tournament exit. Haaland prepares to enter next season under new City manager Enzo Maresca.

Kelly Cates criticised Travis Kelce for weighing in on the debate surrounding Folarin Balogun’s red card during the World Cup rather than focusing on his wedding. FIFA’s suspension of Balogun’s ban sparked anger from the Belgian FA and strong reactions from figures including Donald Trump and Gary Neville. Pundits debated the fairness and transparency of the decision ahead of the USA’s match against Belgium.