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Jude Bellingham could face a potential ban after being caught making an X-rated gesture during Real Madrid's 2-1 victory over Barcelona in El Clasico. The English midfielder was the match-winner at the Bernabeu, but his celebration has once again sparked controversy after cameras appeared to capture him repeating the same gesture that landed him in trouble at Euro 2024.

Bellingham makes lewd gesture after winning Clasico for Real Madrid

Bellingham played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s 2-1 triumph over Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu, contributing both a goal and an assist in one of the most anticipated fixtures of the season in La Liga. Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring for Madrid, only for Fermin Lopez to level for Barcelona before Bellingham struck just before half-time to restore Los Blancos’ lead — one that ultimately proved decisive.

However, celebrations took an unexpected turn when the England international was caught on camera making a lewd gesture, pointing toward his crotch while sticking out his tongue in front of supporters. The incident quickly spread across social media, drawing comparisons to the same gesture Bellingham made at Euro 2024 after scoring for England against Slovakia, for which UEFA issued him a £25,000 fine and a suspended one-match ban.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportReal Madrid and Barcelona players clash in heated Clasico

The gesture has once again placed Bellingham in an uncomfortable spotlight, overshadowing an otherwise stellar performance that helped Real Madrid extend their lead at the top of La Liga to five points. The match itself was a heated affair, with tempers flaring late on as Andriy Lunin was sent off in stoppage time amid a scuffle involving multiple players. La Liga and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) are expected to review the footage to determine whether Bellingham’s actions warrant disciplinary action, though a decision may depend on how seriously the governing bodies interpret his intent.

If sanctioned, Bellingham could face a fine or even a short suspension, a setback that Real Madrid can ill afford as they prepare for a demanding run of fixtures. Head coach Xabi Alonso, who has praised the midfielder’s resurgence since the international break, will be keen to keep one of his most influential players available. Speaking after the match, Alonso said: “He’s had three very good games. We knew before the last break that he needed time and minutes to get going, and he’s done better than we expected. Jude is all about feeling, communicating, and connecting. That’s why he’s had some very good games.”

Bale got away with a similar gesture in 2019

This is not the first time a Real Madrid player has become embroiled in controversy for a similar act. Back in 2019, Gareth Bale made the infamous “corte de mangas” gesture toward Atletico Madrid fans — a motion considered deeply offensive in Spain — yet he escaped punishment from the authorities. That precedent could provide some comfort to Bellingham, who will hope that the Spanish FA takes a lenient view. The midfielder’s previous incident at Euro 2024, however, may not work in his favour, even though UEFA’s jurisdiction does not extend to La Liga matches.

Barcelona boss Hansi Flick landed himself in hot water last week after being shown a second yellow card for making a gesture during a win over Girona. Flick also picked up a one-match ban and was suspended from the touchline for El Clasico. All eyes will now be trained on whether La Liga manage to clamp down on Bellingham’s X-rated gesture with similar vigour, while a lack of action could very well reiterate a dig made by Lamine Yamal before the Clasico, a sentiment shared heavily by fans of other La Liga teams through the last few seasons.

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AFPCould Bellingham be banned for Valencia clash?

Bellingham will now await any formal word from the league authorities regarding potential punishment, but as of now, no official statement has been released. If history is any indicator, a review process could take several days, with Real Madrid’s legal team likely to argue that the gesture was made in jest or misinterpreted by cameras. Even if he avoids a ban, the incident is likely to be discussed heavily in the Spanish media over the coming days, reigniting debates that have raged in the last few weeks.

In the meantime, the 22-year-old remains focused on maintaining his fine form for Madrid, who are entering a critical phase of the season. After being left out of Thomas Tuchel’s most recent England squad, Bellingham will hope that his club displays — rather than his on-field antics — become the talking point ahead of the Three Lions’ upcoming fixtures against Serbia and Albania.

West Bromwich Albion fans will want to see their team break free of their tag of nearly-men in the Championship promotion race this coming season.

The Baggies have now been outside the luxuries of the Premier League for four seasons on the spin, with Carlos Corberan clinching a playoff spot for the West Midlands side during the 2023/24 season, only for a semi-final exit to crush their promotion dreams.

It will be up to rookie manager Ryan Mason to finally guide West Brom back up to the Premier League, with the powers that be at the Hawthorns going down a brave, new route in offering the inexperienced 33-year-old the reins.

He might well look to utilise his former Tottenham Hotspur connections when attempting to land gems in the transfer market, with Mikey Moore one North London prodigy that continues to stick out.

Latest on West Brom's pursuit of Moore

It has been a long-standing rumour at the Hawthorns this summer that West Brom are interested in bringing the 17-year-old sensation to the Championship.

After all, the teenage attacker does boast an astounding return of 19 goals from 24 appearances for Spurs’ U19s, on top of also showing off his class in senior action when powering home his first-ever men’s goal for Thomas Frank’s men last season in the Europa League.

But, it could be argued that West Brom are already strong down both the left wing and right wing – where Moore regularly roams – with Tom Fellows, Jed Wallace, and Mikey Johnston all at Mason’s disposal. Between them last season in the second tier, the entertaining trio would tally up a hefty 27 goal contributions.

Moreover, with experience perhaps preferred when looking for fresh recruits down the wing as ex-Derby forward Tom Lawrence continues to be linked, the Baggies might look to other faces in the Spurs academy to bolster their squad, with a loan return for this striker potentially on the menu as a better pick-up than Moore.

How Mason could seal a better signing than Moore

If there was an area on the pitch that fills West Brom with anxiety, it would be up top in the centre-forward position.

West Brom haven’t been blessed with lady luck in this department, considering Josh Maja found himself out of action from January onwards last campaign when picking up an unfortunate injury, away from Daryl Dike also being a regular member of the Hawthorns treatment room.

Josh Maja

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12

44

Karlan Grant

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7

4

Devante Cole

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0

Daryl Dike

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Therefore, to ensure they don’t leave themselves short on numbers in attack, West Brom could soon welcome back former loan face Will Lankshear to Mason’s camp, with Football London reporting earlier this week that the Baggies want to secure the temporary signature of the 20-year-old once more, alongside other Championship suitors sniffing around.

Lankshear did endure a testing loan stint with the club last season, with zero goals picked up across 11 appearances, but he was shoved into the deep-end arguably, considering he joined the building right in the midst of West Brom’s promotion push falling flat.

He only started four of those league clashes too, and with such a glowing track record in youth circles at Spurs – much like Moore – Mason might well be the perfect manager to get the most out of Lankshear in a senior set-up, having worked with him closely in North London.

Amazingly, the “phenomenal” forward – as he was labelled by journalist John Wenham – has an even sturdier goal tally next to his name for the Spurs U21s than Moore has managed in his age bracket, with a venomous 26 strikes amassed from just 35 contests.

Even if Maja is back to full fitness this coming season, adding in Lankshear wouldn’t hurt, with the 20-year-old hotshot no doubt able to enhance his game bouncing off of such an experienced EFL head.

With their highest average age across the lineup coming in at 28.7 last season, adding in stars of the future, such as the England U20 international, could be a worthwhile move, as Mason attempts to leave his mark on the Baggies to try and push his new employers up the league.

After Nat Phillips: West Brom could sign "sublime" Fellows replacement

If West Bromwich Albion are powerless to Tom Fellows leaving, this sublime star joining the building could be his best possible replacement.

ByKelan Sarson Jun 24, 2025

Under-used asset should be picked to perform for free-to-air TV outing

Matt Roller24-Jun-2021Whatever Eoin Morgan’s views on fiscal policy, it is safe to assume he places limited faith in the free market.When Moeen Ali’s name was called at February’s IPL auction, it sparked a bidding war between Punjab Kings and Chennai Super Kings, fetching him a fee of Rs. 7 crore (£690,000 approx.). It proved that while Moeen has been surplus to requirements for England’s T20I side for more than nine months, there is still high demand for his services in the biggest T20 tournament in the world, where competition for one of the limited number of overseas slots is fierce.And Moeen’s performances in the six games he played before the IPL’s curtailment vindicated Chennai’s faith in him. Batting at No. 3, he made 206 runs in six innings with a strike rate of 157.25 – only Prithvi Shaw and AB de Villiers made more runs at a quicker rate. With the ball, he bowled two overs a game on average, taking five wickets and conceding a miserly 6.16 runs an over.In an England shirt, by contrast, Moeen has not been required for nine consecutive T20Is and there is every chance that streak will extend to 10 games in Cardiff on Thursday evening (though Morgan has hinted there will be a handful of changes). He has played in just 12 of England’s last 37 T20Is and while he is certain to be named in the squad for the T20 World Cup this autumn, the fact he went unused during the five-match series in India in March was proof that he has been overtaken by Sam Curran as the luxury pick at No. 7, afforded by Ben Stokes’ presence in the top six. In all formats, Moeen has played only four times for England in nine months.England’s explanation for his ongoing omission is simply that conditions haven’t suited him. Pitches in Cape Town, Paarl and Ahmedabad offered very little turn throughout the winter and Cardiff, the venue for their thumping eight-wicket on Wednesday night, has such short straight boundaries that Morgan has always been reticent to use spinners there, particularly from the River Taff End. In Liam Livingstone – preferred to Moeen at No. 6 in the first T20I – he has a batter who can bowl both offspin and legspin in the same over, versatility which Moeen does not offer.But that rationale demonstrates the disconnect between how Moeen is viewed at club and international level as a T20 player: England see him as a second spinner who adds to their batting depth; Worcestershire, Chennai and Multan Sultans use him as a top-order batter who also offers an extra spin option when required. His offspin has been used increasingly sparingly in T20Is – he bowled a single over in each of his last six appearances and has been relatively expensive – but Morgan still refers to him publicly as their second spinner. For all England’s batting riches, it seems like a waste of his ability with the bat.ESPNcricinfo LtdThe elephant in the room is Dawid Malan’s form, which has dipped sharply since a superb innings of 99 not out against South Africa at the start of December. There is little doubt that Malan – still ranked the world’s No. 1 T20I batter by the ICC – would be a good option at No. 3 in a World Cup in Australia, where hard, bouncy pitches suit his strengths square of the wicket and off the back foot, but with the T20 World Cup due to be played either in India or on used pitches in the UAE, that has limited relevance.Malan struggled in India in March, being dismissed three times in 39 balls against spin, and with his runs drying up in domestic white-ball cricket, he is averaging 24.35 with a strike rate of 111.95 across all T20s since the start of the Big Bash. England’s unparalleled batting depth means that innings of 25 off 20 balls are significantly more damaging than early failures or flashy cameos, and Moeen – a quick starter, and a clean hitter of spin – looks like the ideal candidate to replace him if his lean patch continues.There is no guarantee he would have made a significant score, but it is hard to imagine Moeen nudging his way to 7 off 14 balls as Malan did on Wednesday night while England were cruising to victory. And if Morgan needs reminding about Moeen’s worth in Cardiff, he need only cast his mind back to his only T20I appearance there in 2015, when he hit 72 not out off 46 balls from No. 3 then dismissed Glenn Maxwell with the first ball he bowled.There is a wider context to consider, too. Thursday’s second T20I is one of two England men’s games shown live by the BBC on free-to-air TV in the UK this summer, and through no real fault of their own, the white-ball side has had limited opportunity to connect with the public at large since their World Cup final win.Related

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The first T20I last night was their first game in front of a home crowd since that Lord’s final nearly two years ago, and with the vast majority of their careers stuck behind a paywall, their players will want to serve up a better spectacle than Wednesday night’s; even Jos Buttler and Jason Roy – perhaps the most destructive opening partnership in T20I cricket – could do little to liven things up with such a low target to chase. The fact that tonight’s match falls on the first rest day in the Euro 2020 schedule means the scope to draw in casual viewers is all the greater.There are two moves to make. The first is that if they win the toss, England should bat first regardless of the conditions on what is expected to be a used pitch. Not only would it give their batting line-up valuable experience of setting a total before this autumn’s World Cup, it would ensure there is a chance to show off their wealth of batting options.And the second is to pick Moeen, if not for Malan then for either Curran or Livingstone, whose brief spell on Wednesday proved that Cardiff does not have to be a graveyard for spinners. The demand for him in the IPL suggests he is wasted carrying drinks, and there are fewer better sights in the game than Moeen’s smooth flow while hitting down the ground – it would be a missed opportunity not to open it up to a significantly bigger audience than usual.

The champions of Europe may have already been crowned, although there is an even bigger prize on offer this summer, as 32 teams compete to be named the best club side on the planet.

Yes, amid much excitement and intrigue, the revamped FIFA Club World Cup is now finally on the horizon, with things kicking off on Saturday 14 June, ahead of what will be a month-long feast of football in the United States.

Every English club to play at the Club World Cup

Chelsea and Man City are preparing to head to the United States in the summer.

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By
Brett Worthington

Dec 6, 2024

Among those from across the globe who are bidding to reach the showpiece on 13 July are Premier League giants – and recent Europa Conference League winners – Chelsea, with the Blues set to take on MLS outfit LAFC on Monday (16 June).

The west Londoners have earned their place following their Champions League triumph back in 2021, while for their opponents, the Los Angeles-based hopefuls saw off Club America in a lucrative play-off showdown to secure the final spot in the competition.

• Watch the FIFA Club World Cup live and on-demand here

Ahead of what should be an enthralling opening fixture for two of the four sides in Group D, here’s everything you need to know on how to watch – and who to be looking out for – when Monday rolls around…

Where to watch Chelsea vs LAFC at the Club World Cup

63 games. The world’s best players. All in one place. All without paying a penny. It really doesn’t get much better than that, does it?

Indeed, FIFA revealed back in December 2024 that this bumper Club World Cup edition will be available for free globally, with the world’s current largest sports streaming platform – DAZN – showcasing every game from this footballing extravaganza.

Available worldwide in 14 languages, DAZN really is the go-to place for this summer’s affair, with easy access provided to watch the likes of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland – and many more – strutting their stuff at the highest level.

If you are already a DAZN subscriber, then the Club World Cup action will already become a part of your membership. For those who haven’t yet signed up, all you have to do is use your email address to register a free account on the DAZN website, with no hidden costs or fees added. You will then be able to watch every game on the DAZN app via your TV, computer, phone or even on your games console.

Chelsea vs LAFC (Monday 16 June – Atlanta – 8pm UK time, 3pm local time)

• FIFA Club World Cup

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Chelsea vs LAFC – Who to look out for

Fresh off the back of their recent European success, Enzo Maresca’s youthful side have already bolstered their ranks with a handful of key signings, with Strasbourg’s Mamadou Sarr joining Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap in making the move to Stamford Bridge.

Those two new arrivals will be in line to make their Chelsea debuts against their MLS opponents, while there is further excitement surrounding new man Dario Essugo and the returning Andrey Santos.

Delap, in particular, will strengthen a frontline that already includes the dazzling Cole Palmer, with the Blues talisman seeking to build on his return of 67 goals and assists in just 91 games for the club to date. Behind the Englishman, the South American duo of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo will likely prove crucial to the club’s fortunes once again.

As for the side hoping to throw an early spanner in the works, LAFC boast a handful of familiar faces to Premier League audiences at their core, with the World Cup-winning French duo of Hugo Lloris and Olivier Giroud operating at either end of the pitch.

This meeting will, of course, be something of a reunion for Giroud, following his prior three-and-a-half-year stay in west London, with the veteran striker memorably scoring six goals en route to Chelsea’s Champions League triumph four years ago.

The 38-year-old – who has scored just five goals during his time in the States – is not manager Steve Cherundolo’s danger man, however, with number 99, Denis Bouanga, having hit 20+ MLS goals in each of his last two seasons, prior to netting eight in 15 league games in 2025. One-time Roma and Marseille starlet, Cengiz Under, will be another for Chelsea to keep tabs on down the right flank.

Who else is in Group D?

Chelsea’s Premier League status will make them overwhelming favourites to progress from Group D, although Brazilian outfit, Flamengo, will provide a stern test, having won the Copa Libertadores back in 2022.

Those two sides go head to head in the second round of games, with that fixture providing the chance for another potential reunion, as former Chelsea man Jorginho bids to make his debut for the Serie A side, amid his recent free transfer exit from Arsenal.

Elsewhere, aside from latecomers LAFC, the final place in Group D has been taken by Tunisian outfit, Esperance de Tunis, with the relative outsiders having earned their place as the highest ranking eligible side in the CAF – African football’s governing body.

With the chance for new rivalries to be made, this quartet is not one to be overlooked…

FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Qualified teams, format, venues & how to watch

The FIFA Club World Cup takes place this summer, with plenty of teams set to head to the United States in July 2025.

By
Ross Kilvington

Oct 30, 2024

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly identifying targets for incoming new manager Thomas Frank already, with the Dane also having his own input on their summer recruitment plans as he prepares for his debut season in the Lilywhites dugout.

Thomas Frank already identifying transfer targets at Spurs

According to Fabrizio Romano and other reliable media sources, Frank is closing in on the Spurs job and an agreement has been reached for him to replace Ange Postecoglou – just days after the Australian was given his marching orders.

Tottenham now offered £42m star who Mourinho held talks to sign for Spurs

The former Spurs boss FaceTimed him constantly.

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By
Emilio Galantini

Jun 11, 2025

Romano has given his renowned ‘here we go’ to the appointment and there is an expectation that Frank could even be confirmed as Tottenham’s new manager in the next few days (BBC), with the 51-year-old poised to swap Brentford for north London.

The move is so advanced, in fact, that reports are already flooding in regard to Frank identifying his preferred summer transfer targets for Spurs.

GiveMeSport reported earlier this week that Frank has recommended Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze to Tottenham and chairman Daniel Levy as a possible signing, in the event they cannot beat Man United in the race for Bryan Mbeumo.

This comes amid reports that they’re after a new left-winger after the departure of Timo Werner, with Spurs said to be eyeing Man City star Jack Grealish, who is almost certain to depart Eastlands this summer (talkSPORT).

The arrival of a new forward in that area would also raise questions about the future of Mathys Tel.

The Frenchman arrived at N17 on loan in January, and the deal includes an option to buy for around £45 million. However, it is believed that Spurs would want to whittle down that fee if they do opt to keep Tel, following a mixed first six months at the club.

Tottenham to open talks over cut-price Mathys Tel deal

According to TEAMtalk this week, that is most certainly the plan, and Tottenham are set to open talks over a reduced-price move for Tel in the coming weeks.

They also state Frank has personally told Spurs chiefs that the 20-year-old’s permanent arrival would sufficiently reinforce his attacking options ahead of a 2025/2026 campaign where they’ll be competing in the Champions League.

Frank apparently believes Tel is a perfect fit for his high-pressing system, and is a major fan of the winger’s work rate among other desirable traits, like his versatility.

Taking this into account, Frank has requested that the club keep Tel right where he is, which could end up being the right call considering his glowing reputation among Bayern Munich circles.

Ex-Bayern boss Julian Nagelsmann once tipped Tel to bag ’40 goals a season’ at some point in his career, while Bayern back-up keeper, Sven Ulreich, called him a ‘role model’ for younger players.

“Mathys is a fine guy, is inquisitive, willing to learn, down-to-earth and works a lot on himself,” Ulreich said.

“He is a role model for all the young players who come here. He comes up and does his job. We’ve had other examples that didn’t handle it that way.”

Rafael Leao made the difference for AC Milan as the Serie A giants overcame Liverpool 4-2 in a closely-fought pre-season encounter in Hong Kong.

• Leao with goal and assist
• Liverpool show promise but defeated by Milan
• Wirtz starts for Reds

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  Liverpool tasted defeat in the first game of their pre-season tour courtesy of a strong counter-attacking display from Milan at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong. Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo scored for the Reds, who showed glimpses but ultimately came out second-best on the day as Leao shone with a well-taken goal and assist.

  The Reds continued their tributes to the late Diogo Jota, which were prevalent in their emotional opening fixture at Preston North End. On Saturday, they wore special shirts containing a patch saying 'Diogo J 20'.

  It was Milan who started the brighter of the two sides, as Leao opened the scoring in the 11th minute after an earlier warning shot. The Portuguese winger was freed by Christian Pulisic on the break down the left, and despite being forced out wide by Virgil van Dijk, the 26-year-old rifled the ball into the top corner. He paid tribute to former Portugal team-mate Jota with a muted celebration.

  Mohamed Salah had a great opportunity to equalise after he was played through by new man Florian Wirtz, but the Egyptian was unselfish and played a ball back towards the German which was cleared away before it could reach him. However, Liverpool would be level before the half-hour mark courtesy of the right boot of Szoboszlai. Assisted by ever-impressive 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha, Szoboszlai nonchalantly clipped the ball over the lead of Mike Maignan and into the top corner of the net from the edge of the penalty area.

  Liverpool dominated first-half possession but Milan could have gone in ahead at half-time had Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Leao not combined to waste a golden opportunity on the counter-attack.

  The pair would combine again to have their say early in the second period though, Leao this time breaking on the break and finding Loftus-Cheek, who showed poise to calmly finish into the bottom corner. Soon the Italian side would score a third, Noah Okafor this time powering into the net after another rapid counter-attack.

  Liverpool pushed to get back into the game and substitute Jeremie Frimpong would prove a threat playing higher up on the right wing, forcing a good save before Gakpo headed home expertly to halve the deficit in stoppage time. However, any chance of a last-gasp equaliser was quashed when a defensive lapse allowed Okafor to score his second with the last kick of the game. This would ultimately prove Milan's day.

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  THE MVP

  The game's outstanding player was Milan's Leao. The Portuguese international has been touted as one of the world's most exciting forwards for several years now and he showed exactly why. An outstanding individual goal opened the scoring early on, before he broke forward on the counter to assist Loftus-Cheek for his side's second. He even had a role to play in the third goal with a backheel in the centre circle to set off a counter attack. Milan's threat waned after their danger man was withdrawn just after the hour mark.

• NEW FACES

  Wirtz made his second appearance following last week's behind-closed-doors friendly with Stoke City and showed several glimpses of his undoubted quality in 45 minutes on the pitch in his new colours. A moment where he broke through the centre of midfield and played through Harvey Elliott stood out, as did a clever through-ball to Salah which could have led to a goal. Liverpool clearly have a very accomplished new signing on their hands, though he was playing in the slightly unfamiliar position of false nine on this occasion.

  Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong were introduced at half-time as they continue to build connections with their new team-mates. Frimpong stood out and almost got on the scoresheet after a brilliant take out of the sky got him in behind the defence, only for the Dutchman's fierce strike to be thwarted.

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  ONES TO WATCH

  Ngumoha is just 16 years old but has already stood out throughout pre-season, and he did so once again against Milan. Following up a goal against Stoke, he registered an assist for Szoboszlai's goal and looked comfortable among his esteemed team-mates out on the left wing in the first half. He also forced Maignan into a smart save after a rapid stepover earned him some space on his weaker left foot.

  We also saw appearances by rising Liverpool stars such as Luca Stephenson, Trey Nyoni, Tyler Morton and Ben Doak, who all aimed to show glimpses of their quality in hope of finding a more regular role to play in Slot's squad next season.

There have been two significant problems for Arsenal this season, which have resulted in yet another trophyless campaign.

The first is their numerous and significant injuries, and the second is their lack of cutting-edge up top, which said injuries have exacerbated.

For example, as things stand, the North Londoners have scored 17 goals fewer than Liverpool in the Premier League despite being just one place behind them in the table.

So, with such a clear deficit between them and their title rival, it’s hardly been surprising to see a host of talented attackers linked with the Gunners in recent weeks, such as Bryan Mbeumo, although even with his lofty price tag, one of Arsenal’s own stars is worth millions more.

Why Arsenal want sign Mbeumo

So, according to reports from earlier this week, Arsenal are keen on signing Mbeumo during the summer, but what is it about him that has caught the North Londoners’ eye

Well, the main thing is that even though he’s not the biggest name around and plays for a team who were in the Championship just a few seasons ago, the Cameroon international is a lean, mean goalscoring machine.

For example, in just 41 appearances, totalling 3487 minutes this season, the “unplayable” attacker, as dubbed by Brentford boss Thomas Frank, has scored 19 goals and provided nine assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.46 games, or every 124.53 minutes.

Moreover, on top of his prolific nature in front of goal, the former Troyes star can play in a number of different positions, from right-wing to centre-forward to second striker, and he’s even made a few appearances off the left.

In all, Mbeumo would bring a mountain of goals with him to the Emirates and help bulk out Arteta’s attacking options, making his supposed £60m price tag seem relatively reasonable.

Yet, while he’d likely be a hit in North London, the Brentford star would have to hit the ground running and then some to see his valuation get anywhere near one of his potential teammates.

The Arsenal star worth millions more than Mbeumo

The good news for Arsenal is that while they haven’t all performed at their best this season, they do have a few very talented attackers in the squad, such as Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard and Kai Havertz.

However, when it comes to someone who is worth considerably more than Mbeumo, only one player stands out: Bukayo Saka.

Yes, according to Transfermarkt, the young Englishman is worth up to an astounding €150m, which is about £126m, or a whopping £66m more than the Brentford ace is likely to cost the club.

Now, while that might sound like an absurd valuation, it’s probably a fair one, as, despite still being just 23 years old and missing over three months of the season, the Hale End superstar has still been the Gunners’ most productive player this season.

For example, in just 36 appearances, totalling 2592 minutes, the “legend in the making,” as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has scored 12 goals and provided 14 assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.38 games, or every 99.69 minutes.

Moreover, according to FBref, he sits in the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for shot-creating actions from shots and goal-creating actions, the top 2% for expected assists, the top 5% for goals plus assists and more, all per 90.

Ultimately, while Mbeumo would be a brilliant signing, it feels unlikely that he’d ever be as valuable as Saka, as the talismanic winger is already performing at a world-class level and has many more years to get even better.

Gyokeres alternative: Arsenal working to sign "monster" £60m Havertz upgrade

The Premier League star would be unreal for Arsenal.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

May 20, 2025

Manchester United have now held talks with the agent of a “sensational” player, who is among the main contenders for the Ballon d’Or, according to a report.

Man Utd's pulling power called into question

The Europa League loss against Tottenham Hotspur means, of course, that Champions League football has once again eluded Man United, and Roy Keane has suggested his former club no longer have the pulling power to attract top players.

However, Old Trafford clearly remains an attractive destination, even though European football will not be on offer next season, with it recently being revealed that Bryan Mbeumo would still prefer to join United ahead of Tottenham Hotspur.

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He’s won 20 trophies in his career so far.

ByDominic Lund Jun 11, 2025

There have also been suggestions that Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres remains interested in a move, despite the highly sought-after striker attracting the attention of some other top clubs, suggesting the Red Devils clearly still have pulling power.

As such, Man United have now stepped up their pursuit of the highly-regarded Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, making contact with his agent, Enzo Raiola, in order to discuss a potential summer move.

Donnarumma’s PSG contract is set to expire next June, meaning he could be on the move this summer, despite expressing a willingness to remain at the French club, saying: “My priority is to stay at PSG. I don’t think there will be problems in the negotiations.”

Ruben Amorim is keen to bring in an upgrade on Andre Onana, but it could be difficult to tempt the goalkeeper into a move, considering his desire to remain in Paris, and Champions League finalists Inter Milan could provide competition for his signature.

"Sensational" Donnarumma emerges as Ballon d'Or contender

With just one year left on his deal, the Italian could be available for just £34m this summer, which could be a bargain fee for a player vying to win the Ballon d’Or, currently ranked fourth in the 2025 Power Rankings.

In recent times, a player from the Champions League winners has often scooped up the prestigious award, and the 26-year-old kept a clean sheet in PSG’s 5-0 demolition of Inter in the final, although Desire Doue was arguably the star of the show.

Not only did the PSG shot-stopper impress in Munich, but he also caught the eye of Joe Prince-Wright in the semi-final against Arsenal, with the reporter suggesting the Italy international was one of the main reasons his side progressed past the Gunners.

Evidently, Donnarumma could be a fantastic signing for Man United, but it seems unlikely that he would be willing to leave the European champions to move to Old Trafford.

Nottingham Forest are “ready” to make their move for an England international in the summer transfer window, according to a new transfer claim.

Damaging draw for Nottingham Forest as Marinakis takes centre stage

Nuno Espirito Santo’s side suffered a poor afternoon at the office on Sunday, drawing 2-2 at home to already-relegated Leicester City in the Premier League, affecting their Champions League qualification hopes badly.

Amid the disappointment, Forest continue to be linked with potential additions in the summer window, but the quality of their signings is likely to be affected by which European competition they qualify for next season, something owner Evangelos Marinakis is all too aware of.

Liverpool centre-back Jarell Quansah has been linked with a move to the City Ground at the end of the season, with the 22-year-old struggling for regular playing time this season, and unlikely to oust Virgil van Dijk or Ibrahima Konate any time soon. He could be an exciting young option with a bright future in the game.

Forest are also believed to be considering a move for Manchester City attacking midfielder James McAtee, with the Englishman in a similar situation to Quansah, in terms of not being a key starter for one of the biggest teams in the country.

Nottingham Forest "ready" to sign Loftus-Cheek

According to MilanLive [via Sport Witness], Nottingham Forest are “ready” to move for AC Milan midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek this summer, and could pay just £17m for his services.

The 29-year-old could leave the Serie A giants at the end of the season, following an injury-plagued campaign, though Fulham and West Ham are also mentioned as possible destinations. Meanwhile, Roma’s “excellent” relationship with Milan could give them the edge in the race to snap him up.

Loftus-Cheek could be an interesting option for Forest this summer, with the former Chelsea man a 10-cap England international who appeared for the Three Lions at the 2018 World Cup, playing four times. He is one of the best dribblers in his position in Europe, ranking in the 92nd percentile for progressive carries by central midfielders in Europe’s big five leagues.

The midfielder has now racked up 66 appearances in a Milan shirt, scoring 10 goals – it would be more if it weren’t for injury problems – and Owen Hargreaves has spoken of his admiration for him.

Nottingham Forest pursuing £29.7 million ace who may be available in summer

The Tricky Trees could land an exciting target.

BySean Markus Clifford May 10, 2025

Loftus-Cheek only has two years remaining on his current Milan deal, so they seem happy to cash in this summer, and he would be a shrewd addition for Forest, adding experience and physicality in the middle of the park, and not at an extortionate price.

Dillon Pennington was Nottinghamshire’s outstanding performer as Lancashire were denied the prosperity they had been hoping for when they opted to bat on day one of their Vitality County Championship match at Trent Bridge.Skipper Keaton Jennings made 91 and overseas batter Tom Bruce 73 but Lancashire let a good position slip, tumbling from 190 for 2 to close on 306 for 8.Pennington inflicted heavy damage by taking 3 for 15 in an excellent five-over spell with the second new ball before seamer Dane Paterson dealt Lancashire a further blow by removing Bruce in the day’s penultimate over.With Australian spinner Nathan Lyon rested for this round, Lancashire have named England pace bowler Saqib Mahmood in their line-up for the first time in 12 months following a stress fracture.It had looked like evolving as Lancashire’s day until the last half-hour of the middle session, when Jennings and George Balderson, who had shared a third-wicket stand worth 107, were both out in quick succession.The morning session had been theirs until Josh Bohannon’s dismissal by Lyndon James from what would have been the penultimate ball before lunch. Bohannon had picked up four boundaries against the Nottinghamshire allrounder, albeit one off an edge, but was struck on the front pad as he looked for a fifth through the on side and was clearly out.Despite pace bowlers Pennington and the fit-again Olly Stone subjecting Lancashire’s openers to a testing opening passage on a used pitch with a decent covering of grass, Nottinghamshire’s only breakthrough prior to that had come in the 10th over, when Paterson found the edge to have Luke Wells caught at second slip.Encouraged by James’ breakthrough, which had ended what had been a threatening partnership between the aggressive Bohannon and a more measured Jennings, Nottinghamshire emerged from lunch with renewed energy. Yet it was Lancashire’s third-wicket pair who dominated for the next couple of hours.Jennings, having built a painstaking 128-ball half-century, which he completed with his 10th boundary, upped the tempo. A paddle sweep for four and a nicely driven straight six off Calvin Harrison’s legspin signalled growing assuredness and he looked well set for a second hundred of the season.But Nottinghamshire’s bowlers never let their effort levels dip and fought back in the half-hour before tea.Jennings will take the blame for his own demise, going for a reverse sweep against Harrison but able only to top-edge it to slip where Tom Moores – back in the Nottinghamshire side for the first time this season but unable to prise the wicketkeeper’s gloves from Joe Clarke – took an easy catch.But the departure of Balderson was purely down to the skill of the bowler, Stone’s impressive contribution deservedly rewarded when the batter was beaten for pace as he tried to flick across the line, squarely in front as the ball collided with the front pad. The two wickets transformed 190 for 2 into 196 for 4.Lancashire’s double setback meant two new batters at the crease, but with Bruce taking the lead, reaching a half-century off 69 balls, it took the second new ball for Nottinghamshire to restore a measure of parity on the day, Pennington striking twice in the space of nine deliveries as George Bell edged to first slip and Matthew Hurst to third.The ex-Worcestershire quick picked up his third scalp when England spinner Tom Hartley found the safe hands of Harrison at second slip, after which Bruce reined himself in noticeably. Lancashire picked up a second batting point but the loss of Bruce, leg before to Paterson, was another big blow.Before play began, players and spectators observed a minute’s silence in respect for Josh Baker, the Worcestershire spin bowler who died last week at the age of just 20. Baker represented his county against Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge only last month.It was a particularly poignant moment for Pennington and Jack Haynes, who now wear Nottinghamshire colours but shared the New Road dressing room with Baker before switching counties at the end of last season.