Mark Carruthers

Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl confirmed that negotiations are underway over Joao Palhinha’s possible departure, while stressing that the process remains lengthy and no transfer has been finalized. Newcastle United are reportedly targeting the midfielder after a proposed move for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg stalled, with Aston Villa also linked. Newcastle are meanwhile closing in on a reported £30 million deal for Benfica full-back Amar Dedic, who is expected to undergo a medical before completing the move.

Jarrow moved to the top of the Northern League Division Two table with a 2-1 home victory over Seaton Carew, despite being without ten squad members. Jonathon Bainbridge and Luca Nelson scored for Jarrow, with Lewis Standing equalising for Seaton Carew. Manager Kennie Malia praised his depleted squad but warned against complacency after the team remained unbeaten in its first seven matches at this level.

South Shields recovered from Jack Hazelhurst’s early penalty for Chorley to win 2-1 at Mariners Park and preserve their 100 percent start to the National League North season. Adam Campbell equalised in the final quarter of the match before Paul Blackett scored the winner with five minutes remaining. Manager Mike Williamson praised his players’ resilience, discipline and refusal to become frustrated, while describing Blackett as a selfless, hungry team player who has regained his fitness after a two-year absence from football.

FC Porto will not negotiate William Gomes’s departure during the summer transfer window despite reported interest from Newcastle United and Chelsea. The 20-year-old Brazilian forward scored 13 goals last season as Porto won the league, but the club is prioritizing a potential sale of Rodrigo Mora to Roma. Porto could consider Gomes’s departure in January or next summer if a suitable offer arrives. Newcastle is also pursuing Benfica full-back Amar Dedic and continues to seek midfield and attacking reinforcements under new head coach Matthias Jaissle.

South Shields striker Paul Blackett has signed a new three-year contract after rejecting interest from EFL and National League clubs, saying his happiness at the club and desire to help create something special drove the decision. He aims to help South Shields secure promotion after last season's play-off final defeat. Blackett also praised the team's defensive resilience in its 1-0 win at Scarborough Athletic, achieved despite playing more than half an hour with ten men, and stressed the importance of improving the club's home form under new head coach Mike Williamson.

Newcastle United’s new head coach Matthias Jaissle has taken charge after succeeding Eddie Howe, with his first match coming against Valencia. Alan Shearer warned that the 38-year-old German faces a “big ask” because of the intensity and scrutiny surrounding Newcastle and his limited experience in the Premier League. Jaissle is expected to restore the energy and consistency that declined during Howe’s final months, while building on Howe’s transformation of the club into regular Champions League qualifiers and Carabao Cup winners.

Jarrow FC began a run of four home matches by defeating Northern League newcomers Seaton Carew 5-0, with goals from Jonathon Bainbridge, Brad Lowes, Michael Enwere, Stephen Siyanbola and Evan Whittle. Manager Kennie Malia sees the home fixture run as an opportunity to build early-season momentum. Boldon CA also remained unbeaten after drawing 1-1 with Billingham Town; Callum Larmouth scored for Boldon before Ryan Telford equalised late.

South Shields FC opened its National League North campaign with a 1-0 victory away to Scarborough Athletic. Sonny Finch scored after 11 minutes, while South Shields had to defend with ten men after Ethan Mann was sent off before the hour. Manager Mike Williamson praised his team's resilience and defensive spirit, particularly goalkeeper Jasper Sheik, who made a decisive late save. Williamson also said Khanya Lashabela’s issue was cramp and that the club was awaiting further information about Dan Dodds’ possible knee injury.

Hebburn Town began life in the National League North with a 3–1 home victory over Southport at the Trustmark Group Stadium. Matty Cornish opened the scoring after an early Southport error, Jake Charles doubled the lead before half-time, and Josh Donaldson sealed the result late after Daniel Ogwuru had pulled one back for the visitors. Manager Daniel Moore praised his side's shape, defensive work and controlled performance, while acknowledging that Hebburn could have scored more.

Hebburn Town FC captain Aidan Heywood says he is proud to lead his hometown club into its first National League North fixture against Southport. The Hornets have risen rapidly since Heywood returned in 2023, winning the Northern Premier League East Division and Premier Division titles and securing a historic promotion. Jack Donaghy has been appointed vice-captain as the club begins its latest step up the non-league pyramid.