The incident took place when Southee was walking back after being dismissed for a first-ball duck against West Indies
ESPNcricinfo staff14-Jun-2024
File photo: It has not been a happy tournament for Tim Southee or New Zealand•ICC/Getty Images
Tim Southee has been handed an official reprimand for smashing a hand-sanitiser dispenser, which breached the ICC’s code of conduct that doesn’t take too kindly to “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an international match”.This was during the West Indies vs New Zealand T20 World Cup 2024 match in Tarouba on June 12. Dismissed by Alzarri Joseph for a first-ball duck in the 18th over of New Zealand’s chase, Southee smashed the dispenser on his way back to the dressing room. He was reprimanded officially for his troubles and had one demerit point added to his disciplinary record – it was the first offence in a 24-month period.For the record, when a player reaches four or more demerit points within a 24-month period, they are converted into suspension points and a player is banned; two suspension points equate to a ban from one Test or two ODIs or two T20Is, whatever comes first for the player. The demerit points remain on a player’s disciplinary record for a period of two years from their imposition, following which they are expunged.Related
Pakistan knocked out of T20 World Cup 2024 in first round
New Zealand's decade of excellence unravels in a hurry
It wasn’t a happy day for Southee or New Zealand – it hasn’t been a happy time for them at the World Cup on the whole – as they went down by 13 runs for their second loss in a row. With West Indies and Afghanistan getting to three wins and qualifying for the Super Eight stage from that group – Group C – New Zealand had a rare ICC event where they didn’t make the Super Eight stage.Their campaign isn’t over, though. They still have games against Uganda and Papua New Guinea to come, but wins there can only lift them to third place in the group.Southee returned 2 for 21 in that game, his first at the tournament after he sat out the opening loss to Afghanistan.
It seemed like it was just a matter of time before there would be reports of Leeds United being interested in a deal for Emiliano Buendia in the summer transfer window.
CaughtOffside recently reported that Aston Villa are ready to part ways with the Argentina international for a fee of around £20m, and that the Championship champions are leading the race to sign him.
Buendia scored 24 goals and provided 41 assists in 121 appearances in all competitions for Daniel Farke during their time together at Norwich City, which is why this feels like an obvious link for the Whites.
However, the 28-year-old star’s relationship with the German head coach does not make it certain that the 49ers will conclude a deal for his services, as the club are reportedly eyeing up another option in the number ten role.
Leeds expected to make move for Championship star
The Whites are looking to bolster their squad ahead of their return to the Premier League next season, and they have identified one of the top players from the 2024/25 Championship campaign as a target.
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 TEAMtalk, there is a ‘belief’ that Leeds United will make a move to sign Sheffield United attacking midfielder Gustavo Hamer in the summer transfer window.
The report claims that the Championship champions are active in the market to sign a number ten and that they are expected to swoop for the Dutch whiz, for whom they had an offer of £18m rejected last year.
TEAMtalk adds that it would take a fee in the region of £18m to secure his signature this time around, though, after the Blades failed to earn promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
Why Gustavo Hamer is as exciting as Emi Buendia
Both Hamer and Buendia appear to be good options on paper for Leeds to improve their options at the top end of the pitch, and they would both be exciting additions to the group this summer.
The former produced ten goals and eight assists in the Championship during the 2024/25 campaign, which is not quite as impressive as the 15 goals and 16 assists that the Argentine magician managed in the 2020/21 season under Farke.
Sheffield United's Gustavo Hamer celebrates scoring their first goal
This suggests that Buendia would be a more exciting signing for Leeds based on their form in the Championship, and what he did with Farke as his manager, but there is more to the situation than that.
For example, if you look at the last time that they both played a full season in the Premier League, it is Hamer who appears to come out on top as a better option for the West Yorkshire outfit.
Premier League
Hamer (23/24)
Buendia (22/23)
Appearances
36
38
xG
2.97
6.36
Goals
4
5
Big chances created
10
8
xA
4.55
4.19
Assists
6
2
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, the Dutch star was more efficient as a finisher at the top level and created more high-quality opportunities for his teammates as an attacking midfielder.
Hamer, who was dubbed “unbelievable” by former teammate Ollie McBurnie, has shown that he can be a quality operator in both the Premier League and the Championship for the Blades, which is why he is an attractive target for the Whites.
The 27-year-old star, who can also operate on the left flank as well as in midfield or as a number ten, could add a threat as both a scorer and a creator of goals to Farke’s squad this summer.
Based on their respective statistics in the top two tiers, Buendia and Hamer are equally exciting targets with solid arguments as to why the club should sign them this summer.
Farke's own Zubimendi: Leeds lining up move to sign "exceptional" £9m star
Leeds United are lining up a move to sign a star who could be their own Martin Zubimendi.
ByDan Emery Jun 22, 2025
If the Whites end the summer transfer window with at least one of them added to the group for the upcoming Premier League season, Farke should be a happy man.
It would be hard to deny that this season was a disappointment for Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta’s side may have done well in the Champions League and finished second in the Premier League, but the club’s ambition was to win a significant honour, which they failed to do.
There were a number of players who failed to deliver, with Gabriel Martinelli being one of the attackers who really flattered to deceive.
Arsenal's GabrielMartinellireacts
Interestingly, the Brazilian’s inability to get back to the levels he showed in 22/23 might have cost him his place in the team, as recent reports have linked the club with an exciting youngster who could be an ideal upgrade.
Arsenal's chase for a new winger
Much of the chatter this summer has been about Arsenal’s need for a new winger.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Fortunately, they have several players on their radar, albeit that have yet to formally make a move for any of their targets.
Real Madrid’s Rodrygo has been one name linked, as has another Spanish-based forward in Nico Williams. However, if they are unattainable, then they could look forwards the Bundesliga.
According to a recent report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are now one of a handful of teams interested in Leipzig star, Antonio Nusa, ahead of the transfer window reopening on Monday.
While the report claims that the interest from the Gunners is currently the most notable, other teams like Chelsea, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Everton, and Napoli are all keen on the dynamo, presently valued at €45m, which is about £38m.
It could be a somewhat complicated transfer to get over the line, but Nusa could be a special player, and someone Arsenal should pursue, especially as he could be an upgrade on Martinelli.
How Nusa compares to Martinelli
One of the significant strengths of Nusa is that he can play in a number of positions, be that off the right, up top or even wide midfield, but when it comes down to it, his most natural and best role is as a left-winger.
Therefore, if the “ridiculous” Norwegian entertainer, as dubbed by journalist Dean Jones, is to join Arsenal this summer, then one of his main competitors for game time would be Martinelli, so how do the pair stack up against one another?
Well, when it comes down to their raw output this season, it would be fair to say neither was prolific, but even though he’s almost four years his junior, it’s the Leipiz star who comes out on top here.
For example, in 36 appearances for the German outfit, totalling just 2185 minutes, the Langhus-born ace scored five goals and provided seven assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every three games, or 182.08 minutes.
In contrast, the Gunners’ number 11 scored ten goals and provided six assists, but did so in 51 appearances, totalling 3564 minutes, which comes out to a goal involvement every 3.18 games, or every 222.75 minutes.
Okay, what about their underlying numbers, then? Which winger comes out on top when we take a look under the hood?
Unfortunately for the former Ituano, while he does do better in some metrics, like shots, shots on target, and passes into the penalty area, he comes out as a clear second-best in the vast majority of others.
Nusa vs Martinelli
Statistics per 90
Nusa
Martinelli
Non-Penalty G+As
0.52
0.38
Progressive Passes
3.09
1.87
Progressive Carries
3.61
4.69
Shots
1.94
2.12
Goals per Shot
0.13
0.12
Shots on Target
0.75
0.94
Goals per Shot on Target
0.35
0.28
Passing Accuracy
73.2%
71.4%
Key Passes
1.57
1.56
Passes into the Final Third
1.65
0.47
Passes into the Penalty Area
1.37
1.40
Live Passes
30.8
25.4
Shot-Creating Actions
3.34
2.90
Goal-Creating Actions
0.28
0.25
Tackles
1.69
0.92
Blocks
0.88
0.73
Interceptions
0.52
0.16
Clearances
0.56
0.70
Successful Take-Ons
2.25
1.48
Ball Recoveries
4.38
3.10
All Stats via FBref for the 24/25 Season
For example, the former Club Brugge gem emerges victories in metrics like non-penalty goals plus assists, progressive passes, shot and goal-creating actions, key passes, tackles and many, many more, all per 90.
Moreover, the 20-year-old “1v1 specialist,” as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, also does far better when it comes to successful take-ons per 90, which could help make the North Londoners’ left-hand side so much more effective.
Ultimately, Martinelli could still be a valuable squad player for Arsenal next season, but it’s clear that, despite being considerably younger, Nusa is the better winger and, therefore, someone the club should be going all out to sign.
He's just like Saka: £68m winger is Tognozzi's dream target for Arsenal
The exciting wonderkid would be a superb addition to the Arsenal squad.
Arsenal’s transfer plans continue to evolve with the first mini-transfer window now open for business, and sporting director Andrea Berta has a limited opportunity to register new players before deadline day on June 10.
Andrea Berta in "numerous talks" over signing new winger for Arsenal
The Italian’s arrival has been greeted with much anticipation, and it hasn’t taken long for Berta to commence laying the groundwork on key potential Arsenal signings.
"True" – Fabrizio Romano backs reports as Arsenal target £126m striker
The north Londoners are in fact interested.
ByEmilio Galantini May 29, 2025
One of his first acts as director was to make contact with Nico Williams’ representatives (The Guardian), and reports ever since claim that a new winger is high on Arsenal’s transfer to-do list after they missed out on this year’s Premier League title to Liverpool by 10 points.
Arsenal transfer spending under Arteta (via Sky Sports)
Money on new signings
19/20 – winter
£0
20/21 – summer
£81.5m
20/21 – winter
£900k
21/22 – summer
£156.8m
21/22 – winter
£1.8m
22/23 – summer
£121.5m
22/23 – winter
£59m
23/24 – summer
£208m
23/24 – winter
£0
24/25 – summer
£101.5m
24/25 – winter
£0
Bukayo Saka’s hamstring injury midway through the season crippled Arsenal’s attacking output. Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds the long-term futures of both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.
Arsenal will entertain suitable bids for Martinelli, according to The Athletic, and Trossard is about to enter the final 12 months of his contract at the Emirates. The north Londoners, as per Sky Germany correspondent Florian Plettenberg, are holding “numerous talks” about wide options.
Since that update from Plettenberg, Arsenal talks for Rodrygo have stalled due to wage demands, and Brighton star Kaoru Mitoma has found his way on to Berta’s shortlist.
Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane has also been offered to Arsenal as his contract in Bavaria ticks down towards expiry, according to Sky Sports in England, so there are many names in Berta’s orbit, and it is highly likely the 53-year-old will bring at least one winger to N5.
Juventus sensation Kenan Yildiz emerging as prime Arsenal target
Now, according to website Turkish-Football, another player is now under serious consideration from Berta and co – Juventus sensation Kenan Yildiz.
Juventus' KenanYildizcelebrates
The 20-year-old can play on either flank and even as a second striker, with his versatility appealing to Arteta’s “tactical vision”. Juve view the 19-cap Turkey international as a key star for the future, off the back of a solid campaign for the youngster personally.
Yildiz weighed in with 16 goal contributions (nine goals and seven assists) in 48 total appearances across 2024/2025, and he even finished the season as Juve’s highest-performing regular by average match rating per 90, according to WhoScored.
His star player status has prompted the Old Lady to value him at up to £86 million, as per this report, but that hasn’t stopped Yildiz emerging as a “prime” transfer target for Arsenal as Berta continues his search for forwards.
The former Bayern Munich academy gem appears set to have a bright future, and if Arsenal are willing to invest significantly, it could be in the Premier League.
This is going to be a big summer for Liverpool. Bigger, perhaps, than any stretch of off-season at Anfield since Phil Coutinho was sold to Barcelona for an exorbitant fee and Alisson and Virgil van Dijk were brought in as replacements.
FSG have a bit of a reputation for being frugal in the transfer market, but Liverpool are hardly averse to strengthening and know that they have chinks to cover if they are to successfully defend their Premier League title next season, challenge for the Champions League too.
But with Trent Alexander-Arnold off to Real Madrid, Andy Robertson declining, Darwin Nunez set to be sold after a disappointing three terms, Ibrahima Konate’s contract situation uncertain, and Ryan Gravenberch lacking competition at number six, it’s understandable that Arne Slot should demand investment.
That exhausting list isn’t actually exhaustive, though. Liverpool are always attentive to opportunities, and what’s bigger than Florian Wirtz’s desire to leave Bayer Leverkusen in search of a new challenge?
Liverpool's pursuit of Florian Wirtz
Former Leverkusen star Patrick Helmes remarked at the start of the season that Wirtz is “probably the best midfielder in the world.” He may well be right.
Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz
Wirtz, certainly, is one of the most exciting and entertaining playmakers in the business, having played an instrumental role in Xabi Alonso’s invincible domestic double last year and now finishing the current campaign with 31 goal involvements to his name.
Though he typically operates from a number ten berth, the Germany international is proven across a whole range of attacking positions, with his seasonal Bundesliga heatmap, sourced via Sofascore, denoting a left-leaning preference.
Florian Wirtz – Career Stats by Position (club & country)
Position
Apps
Goals
Assists
Attacking midfield
169
48
57
Left winger
21
4
5
Right winger
17
8
5
Centre-forward
15
7
7
Central midfield
5
0
3
Data via Transfermarkt
While Bayern Munich have the lead in the race for the attacking midfielder, Liverpool and Manchester City are both hot on his trail, as per The Athletic.
Who knows where he’ll end up, but given Die Werkself are looking to claim some £101m for his sale, Liverpool have lined up alternatives.
Liverpool eyeing marquee deal
Liverpool will lose Alexander-Arnold this summer, and, yes, it would be a shock if he didn’t sign for Real Madrid. However, Rodrygo may travel in the opposite direction, having been left disgruntled by his role at Los Blancos this year.
According to Football Insider, Liverpool are plotting to make their move for the Brazilian forward, who would cost FSG something in the region of £85m.
Arsenal are also named as suitors, but it’s said that Mikel Arteta’s side are deterred by Real Madrid’s financial demands, thus leaving the door open for Liverpool to make their move as the Gunners not wanting to pay the fee could give them an advantage in the race to sign him.
Scout Mick Brown is quoted as saying that the Reds are not happy with their current forward options and that they could make a move for the Brazilian if he becomes available this summer.
Why Rodrygo would be perfect for Liverpool
Only a few months ago, in March, Jude Bellingham claimed Rodrygo is “the most gifted player in the squad.”
There’s been something selfless about the versatile winger’s time at the Santiago Bernabeu, for he has never quite reached the reputation of his frontal peers yet has been one of the most important players under Carlo Ancelotti’s wing.
Across 267 appearances for Real, Rodrygo has notched 118 goal contributions, a very good return when considering he arrived at the club an 18-year-old in 2019, leaving his Brazilian homeland, leaving Santos.
It might not have been the best of seasons for the South American, but he’s still showcased his skills wonderfully. As per Sofascore, the £202k-per-week talent has still hit six goals and five assists from just 22 La Liga starts, averaging 1.6 dribbles and key passes per game while winning 56% of his ground duels.
Real Madrid rarely sell players they don’t want to, but Rodrygo’s situation is a little more complex: with Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior both nailed down in their left and central berths, Liverpool’s target has been ferried off to the right, where he’s at his most ineffective.
Despite Rodrygo’s frustrations this season, deployed in his favoured left-sided position only 12 times (though scoring six goals and supplying six assists), he has played 50 games and still stands firm against Wirtz. He’s even been described as a “magician” by Statman Dave.
In balmier conditions, angled toward breeding positivity for the wideman, there’s no telling how far he could climb. Slot has something of a knack for getting the best out of bothered stars, and Rodrygo could be next, having been praised for being a “more mature player” than compatriot Vini by former Brazil boss Tite.
A man for the big moments, you’d be surprised if Rodrygo didn’t have a say in Liverpool’s efforts on the continental front going forward, should Slot win the race for his services.
It’s not just his clutch moments, though, with an underlying surety in his actions illustrating his world-class quality. As per FBref, the 24-year-old ranks among the top 2% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for pass completion and for carries into the final third and the top 12% for passes attempted.
Rodrygo is fleet-footed, but he’s also inventive and crisp on the ball. Eager to get on it, his vicious blend of deadliness and dynamism suggests he would be a tailor-made addition to Slot’s project, especially if the Dutch coach is willing to unleash him from the left flank, as the player wishes but rarely receives in the Spanish capital.
Ultimately, either Rodrygo or Wirtz would have a significant impact on a flourishing Liverpool side. Wirtz might feel like the most favourable pick, but the £85m-rated star’s stunning career has merely lulled this year, and if Slot were to pick him back up from the Madrid wayside, he might just take his team to the next level.
A better signing than Wirtz: Liverpool ramp up move for "the next Mbappe"
Liverpool’s primary goal this summer remains signing a new centre-forward.
Often, the playoff semi-finals in the Championship can be a nervy and tense occasion as four sides desperately battle it out to try and reach the promised land of the Premier League.
Sheffield United obviously didn’t feel like playing to this script when they demolished Bristol City 6-0 over two legs to clinch a spot at Wembley, with just one more pressurised game now standing in their way of an immediate top-flight return.
It was a joyous night to take in at Bramall Lane during the second leg, with a whole host of standout performers showing Chris Wilder across the two legs that they’re ready for the strain of the top-flight.
How Sheffield United reached Wembley
Wilder’s men would ultimately blow away Liam Manning’s Robins over the two contests, with the 22-point gap between the two sides during the regular season clear for all to see.
Across both contests, Callum O’Hare stuck it out as a stylish impact substitute option when scoring twice from off the bench, while Kieffer Moore from the start made sure the second leg wasn’t going to be a nervy affair when heading home to make it 4-0 on aggregate.
Moreover, the Blades defenders should be commended for picking up two clean sheets on the spin, with Michael Cooper having to stay alert during the second clash by making six saves, on top of Hamza Choudhury succeeding in a somewhat makeshift right-back spot across both matches by winning 14 duels.
But, there is one defender who hasn’t been named yet and he certainly stole the show across both the 3-0 victories.
Sheffield United star is seeing his value soar
Harrison Burrows hasn’t just left all of his blistering displays for the lottery of the playoffs, however, with the exciting 23-year-old also making up a spot in the Championship team of the season.
A lively presence and constantly creative full-back, he bowed out from his two clashes against Manning’s men with a sublime one goal and three assists tallied up.
If you throw in these crucial goal contributions to his overall numbers for the regular season, Burrows finds himself on a sizeable six goals and six assists from 47 games, with this sterling output more than justifying the £6m splahed out on his services last summer.
Now, it remains to be seen whether the expansive 23-year-old can conjure up some more moments of magic on the intimidating stage of Wembley, with a spell in the Premier League to come no doubt boosting his ever-growing transfer value even more.
Burrows – Sheffield United numbers
Stat
Burrows
Games played
47
Goals scored
6
Assists
6
Clean sheets
17
Big chances created
10
Transfer value when joining
£6m
Transfer value now
£11m
Value increase
£5m
Sourced by Football Transfers/Sofascore
His value has already shot up by a steep £5m off the back of his confident showings in South Yorkshire, with Football Transfers now estimating the “unbelievable” defender – as he was previously lauded by ex-manager Darren Ferguson – to have a heftier valuation of £11m.
The electric number 14 has arguably turned into his Blades’ new Jayden Bogle – offering pace and creativity from the full-back spot – with Burrows hopeful his next onward destination is the Premier League too, so he can continue to follow in the now Leeds United man’s footsteps.
Before anyone gets too carried away, however, Wilder’s side have never won promotion through the treacherous playoff route.
But, if the two excellent wins against the Robins are anything to go by, such a hoodoo could soon be put to bed.
Wilder must axe Sheffield United star who only made 2 passes
Sheffield United secured another impressive 3-0 win over Bristol City to reach the Championship playoff final.
Crystal Palace have now emerged as dark horses to sign a “future Ballon d’Or winner” as a possible replacement for Eberechi Eze this summer, according to a report.
Eze's future at Selhurst Park in doubt
Eze has once again been very impressive in a Palace shirt this season, picking up four goals and eight assists in the Premier League, while he also played a major role in the 3-0 FA Cup semi-final victory over Aston Villa, scoring the opening goal in the rout.
As such, the England international is now starting to attract widespread attention from elsewhere, with Premier League rivals Liverpool recently being named as the frontrunners for his signature.
There could be fierce competition for the 26-year-old, however, with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur also in the race, and there is a feeling he could be “open” to a move to north London.
Would cost £0: Crystal Palace now open talks to sign versatile 6'4 colossus
The Eagles have made contact over a move for a defender, who is capable of playing in five positions.
ByDominic Lund Apr 24, 2025
With Eze contracted until 2027, it remains to be seen whether the Eagles are willing to sanction his departure this summer, particularly considering Marc Guehi, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Adam Wharton are also attracting interest.
However, should Palace decide to cash-in, they will need to bring in a replacement, and a report from Caught Offside has now revealed they are now emerging as dark horses to sign Lyon attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki.
Rayan Cherki
Cherki is being targeted by a number of Europe’s top clubs, with Lyon prepared to let him leave for a fee of €30m – €35m (£25m – £30m) this summer, which is viewed as a bargain sum by a number of the potential suitors.
With the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham also in the picture, it may be difficult for Oliver Glasner’s side win the race, but the Lyon star is keen on a move to the Premier League this summer.
"Genius" Cherki could be "future Ballon d'Or winner"
French journalist Julien Laurens is a big fan of the young Frenchman previously lauding him as a “genius” after performing a remarkable roulette during Lyon’s 3-1 victory against AS Monaco.
The 21-year-old broke into the Lyon team at a very young age, making a total of 27 appearances in the 2020-21 campaign, but this season has been by far his best to date, picking up 12 goals and 19 assists in all competitions.
Competition
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Ligue 1
27
8
10
Europa League
12
4
8
Coupe de France
2
0
1
Having also been described as a potential “future Ballon d’Or winner”, there is every indication that Cherki could be a real coup for Palace, but it may be incredibly difficult to compete with the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United in the race for his signature.
Chelsea are huge admirers of an “incredible” Ballon d’Or contender, and they have now been informed they may be able to sign him for a fee of £80m this summer, according to a report.
Blues keen to strengthen in attack
BlueCo have spent heavily to strengthen Chelsea’s attack since their arrival at Stamford Bridge, but after some concerning performances over the past few weeks, it is looking increasingly likely at least one new forward will be brought in this summer.
A striker is of particular interest, given Nicolas Jackson’s struggles in front of goal, and a £60m offer is now being prepared for Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy, while they are also in talks to sign Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres.
It would be fair to say Enzo Maresca’s side have also lacked a creative spark in recent weeks, failing to score in away trips to Arsenal and Brentford, which means the manager may also be keen on bringing in a new playmaker.
Chelsea eager to sign £40k-p/w full-back who's "one of the best" in Europe
The Blues are set to battle it out for a defender, who has been in very impressive form this season.
ByDominic Lund Apr 21, 2025
Lyon’s Rayan Cherki certainly fits the bill in that regard, with the Blues now willing to submit a £20m bid for the Frenchman, who ranks in the top 1% of attacking midfielders for assists per 90 over the past year.
Cherki is an up-and-coming talent, but Chelsea have also been informed they could sign one of the world’s most established forwards this summer, namely Barcelona star Raphinha, who could now be available for £80m.
FC Barcelona'sRaphinhacelebrates scoring their fourth goal
The west Londoners are huge admirers of the Brazilian, and intermediaries have now hinted a deal could be possible this summer, with Premier League rivals Liverpool and Arsenal also monitoring the situation.
Saudi Pro League sides are also keen on the 28-year-old, but he is currently happy at the Camp Nou, and Barcelona are looking to offer him a new contract to ward off the interest from elsewhere.
"Incredible" Raphinha is a Ballon d'Or contender
In the aforementioned report, it is detailed that Thierry Henry believes the Barca forward is a leading contender for the Ballon d’Or, given his very impressive performances in both La Liga and the Champions League this season.
TEAMtalk’s James Marshment has also hailed the Brazil international for his “incredible” goal and assist tally, which has played a major role in Barcelona reaching the Champions League semi-finals and going four points clear at the top of La Liga.
Competition
Appearances
Goals
Assists
La Liga
30
15
11
Champions League
12
12
7
Copa del Rey
4
1
4
Supercopa
2
2
1
It almost goes without saying that Raphinha would be a fantastic signing for Chelsea this summer, but it seems likely they will have to qualify for the Champions League to stand any chance of competing for his signature.
Manchester United are set to axe a £65,000-a-week player this summer who Ruben Amorim called out in his first game in charge.
Man Utd and Amorim preparing for summer after another defeat
The Red Devils can still salvage their season by lifting the Europa League, however, it has been a disappointing campaign on the whole.
Last time out in the Premier League, Man Utd suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United, with Amorim critical of his side making numerous mistakes.
Man Utd making moves to sign "incredible" assist king for bargain £20m fee
The Red Devils are in pursuit of a playmaker, who is set to leave his club on the cheap this summer.
ByDominic Lund Apr 15, 2025
“We did a lot of mistakes and they were better than us, stronger than us. Suffering the second goal in the beginning of the second half hurt us a lot and then we did mistakes during the game that helped Newcastle to win the game.
“It’s a team thing [and not about individuals]. We are doing a lot of mistakes in certain games that give confidence to the opponent, give goals, and then it’s hard to cope with everything. We had the first chance, we didn’t score, [then] they have their chance, they score. Then they took control of the game. We scored to draw but then second half, we were suffering in the second play of the game, it’s hard for our team and we did a lot of mistakes.”
Man Utd’s next 5 fixtures
Date
Man Utd vs Lyon
April 17
Man Utd vs Wolves
April 20
Bournemouth vs Man Utd
April 27
Brentford vs Man Utd
May 4
Man Utd vs West Ham
May 10
One player who was dropped for the trip to St James’ Park was Andre Onana, and there have been plenty of rumours that the goalkeeper is unsettled at Old Trafford and looks set to be sold over the coming months.
There is interest from Saudi Arabia in Onana, whereas Man Utd are looking at replacements and have recently shown an interest in Anders goalkeeper Yahia Fofana.
More Old Trafford exits are on the cards, though, and Fabrizio Romano has shared another Man Utd exit update.
Jonny Evans set to leave Man Utd – Fabrizio Romano
As per transfer expert Romano, Man Utd defender Jonny Evans and third-choice keeper Tom Heaton are both set to depart the club this summer when their contracts expire.
Evans, on £65,000-a-week, returned to the Red Devils in 2023 and has made 42 appearances in all competitions under Erik ten Hag and Amorim in recent years.
Now 37 years of age, the experience centre-back started Amorim’s first game as United boss against Ipswich Town back in November.
That was actually Evans’ last top flight appearance for United, with Amorim critical of the defender after the 1-1 draw.
“If you see the first half, we were a little bit afraid. The No.5 [Sam Morsy] was always alone, we have to jump on him. Hutchinson was always in the dead space, Jonny Evans should be pressing his guy, but when we don’t have the training and it’s hard to see say all the reactions to the players. We had two days, they are confused a little bit. If you stay here, you don’t run, you defend but you don’t run.”
Now, it looks as if Evans will be one of a number of Old Trafford players to depart, something that won’t come as a huge surprise due to his age and contract status.
As Ruben Amorim goes in search of the perfect duo to slot into his two No.10 roles, Manchester United have reportedly set their sights on signing a player who’s been compared to former Arsenal man Santi Cazorla.
Man Utd eyeing 'next Cazorla'
Now in April, Manchester United’s Premier League campaign can be summed up by the fact that they’re yet to win back-to-back games. Defeat against Nottingham Forest was expected, given the contrasting seasons that both are enduring, but Anthony Elanga’s winning goal certainly added salt to the wounds of a United side who will be desperate for matchday 38 to arrive.
It’s become clearer and clearer as Amorim’s reign has progressed that he needs a number of reinforcements if he is to turn things around at Old Trafford and INEOS seem to be well aware of that.
Even as cost-cutting measures continue, the Red Devils have been linked with moves for the likes of Rayan Cherki and now one other attacking midfielder who’d be perfect for Amorim’s system.
Man Utd's £50k-p/w star is in danger of becoming the new Anthony Elanga
Man Utd saw Elanga come back to haunt them on Tuesday evening at the City Ground
ByRobbie Walls Apr 2, 2025
According to reports in Spain, Manchester United are now eyeing a move to sign Oscar Gloukh from Red Bull Salzburg if they lose Bruno Fernandes this summer. Their star man has recently been linked with a move to Real Madrid in what would be a deserved upgrade, only for Amorim to swiftly slam the exit door shut ahead of the transfer window.
The former Sporting Club boss told reporters: “Bruno Fernandes to Real Madrid? It will NOT happen. He’s going nowhere. One day we want to win the Premier League again. So we want the best players to continue with us… and Bruno won’t leave, I already told him.”
"Special" Gloukh would be perfect for Amorim
Compared to former Arsenal midfielder Cazorla by analyst Ben Mattinson, Gloukh would be perfect for Manchester United even if Fernandes stays put. A Cazorla-type is exactly what Amorim needs in his 3-4-2-1 system. By keeping hold of his captain and then adding Gloukh, Amorim could form the ultimate duo in his two advanced midfield roles.
Stats comparison (via FBref)
Oscar Gloukh (24/25)
Santi Cazorla (2012/13)
Starts
16
37
Goals
9
12
Assists
2
11
In less than half the games that Cazorla started in the entirety of Arsenal’s 2012/13 campaign, Gloukh has managed just two less goals this season at Red Bull Salzburg. And whilst he has work to do if he wants to reach the Spaniard’s prime on the assists front, the blueprint is certainly there and Manchester United could yet benefit.
Still just 21 years old, Gloukh’s previous campaign was described as “fantastic” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig and he has only improved even more just one season later, with 10 goals in all competitions.
United have already seen rivals Manchester City benefit from a player who rose through the ranks at Salzburg in Erling Haaland. Now, they could enjoy a player of a similar calibre who may yet become the next Cazorla.