With pre-season preparations set to get underway, the start of the new Premier League campaign is now edging ever closer, ahead of the curtain raiser on 15 August.

For managers, the off-season is one of welcome respite, before the scrutiny ramps up when action gets underway again. For now, they are safe – but not for long.

Already, attention is turning to just which of those in the dugout will be facing the axe first, following in the footsteps of 2024/25’s first casualty, Erik ten Hag, at Manchester United.

On that front, the AI tool, ChatGPT, has provided the answers ahead of 2025/26…

AFC Bournemouth Andoni Iraola

Despite reportedly being in the running to replace Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham Hotspur, Andoni Iraola looks set to remain at Bournemouth – provided another suitor does not emerge over the next 12 months or so.

Two years into an exciting project on the south coast, the highly-rated Spaniard is seemingly more likely to jump than be pushed by the Cherries’ hierarchy.

ChatGPT says: Very low risk of the sack – extension more likely

Arsenal Mikel Arteta

In the words of former Arsenal man, Paul Merson, current Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has ‘until Christmas’ to improve his fortunes at the Emirates, having overseen a third successive second-place finish last time out.

That said, having only signed a new deal – ending in 2027 – back in September, the Spaniard appears to be in a strong position heading into 2025/26, not least following last season’s thrilling Champions League run.

ChatGPT says: Very low risk – secure through 2026

Aston Villa Unai Emery

A final-day defeat to Man United denied Unai Emery and Aston Villa a Champions League qualification spot, although the 53-year-old remains a beloved figure at Villa Park for having revived the club’s fortunes since replacing Steven Gerrard in October 2022.

Quarter-finalists in Europe and semi-finalists in the FA Cup in 2024/25, the Villans remain on the right track. It appears unlikely that things will soon derail.

ChatGPT says: Very low risk – secure through 2026

Brentford Keith Andrews

After a long period of stability, it’s all change for Brentford. Christian Norgaard looks to be on his way to Arsenal. Man United remain in hot pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo. Oh, and Thomas Frank has been replaced by Keith Andrews.

The former Republic of Ireland international turned set-piece coach has been boldly appointed as the Bees’ main man, with intrigue mounting over whether this bold gamble will pay off. In the view of ChatGPT, Andrews could find himself under pressure sooner rather than later.

ChatGPT says: Possible chance of the sack – late October/November 2025 if Brentford aren’t in mid-table or better

Brighton Fabian Hurzeler

The Premier League’s youngest manager, Fabian Hurzeler enjoyed a relatively smooth start to life at Brighton, albeit with the Seagulls narrowly missing out on European football – despite boasting the largest net spend on the continent.

While the German doesn’t appear to be under any immediate pressure, failure to make the most of the club’s exciting squad could see him come under scrutiny in the new year.

ChatGPT says: Low risk – could be sacked in January or February 2026 if Brighton have a shaky start

Burnley Scott Parker

So often the bridesmaid, but never the bride, Burnley boss Scott Parker has now overseen three promotions from the Championship, albeit while enduring a miserable time of things at Premier League level.

Sacked by Fulham amid their impending relegation in 2021, prior to enduring an acrimonious exit from Bournemouth a year later, the Englishman could again find himself at risk if the top-flight proves to be a step too far again for the newly-promoted Clarets.

ChatGPT says: Moderate risk – position likely to be reviewed in February-April 2026, if risk of relegation arises

Chelsea Enzo Maresca

A fine first season at Chelsea ended in Conference League glory and Champions League qualification for former Leicester City boss, Enzo Maresca, with the Italian having enhanced his reputation at Stamford Bridge thus far.

Knowing the typically ruthless nature of the Blues’ hierarchy, however, it won’t be too long before questions will begin to be asked if the team’s form falters.

ChatGPT says: Lower risk – likely to be safe until mid-2026 at least, barring a catastrophic run of form

Crystal Palace Oliver Glasner

The man to lead Crystal Palace to their first ever FA Cup triumph, Oliver Glasner is an undoubted hero at Selhurst Park, having overseen a remarkable transformation after replacing Roy Hodgson in the dugout.

While seemingly safe from the sack, barring a disastrous start the campaign, the greater issue could be whether Glasner himself opts to depart, with just a year left on his current deal.

ChatGPT says: Low risk – potential exit in June 2026, if contract extension isn’t agreed

Everton David Moyes

The man to lead Everton into a new era at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, the returning David Moyes has more than enough credit in the bank, having built on a memorable first spell by steering the Toffees to safety in routine fashion last season.

For all that positivity, however, the mood could swiftly sour if the Merseysiders don’t get off to a good start in their new home.

ChatGPT says: Risk zone of October/November 2025, if Everton have a poor opening

Fulham Marco Silva

Speaking of Everton, one-time Toffees boss Marco Silva continues to quietly go about his business at Craven Cottage, with Fulham again comfortably finishing in mid-table in 2024/25.

Previously tipped to move to Saudi Arabia, the Portuguese coach appears content to stay put in west London, with owner Tony Khan suggesting back in April that the club want Silva to stay “forever”. A sacking seemingly feels unlikely any time soon.

ChatGPT says: Very low risk – secure through 2026

Bangladesh batter was dropped from the Champions Trophy squad on Sunday morning, and scored a BPL hundred later that day

Mohammad Isam13-Jan-2025

Litton Das has been out in single digits in six of his last seven ODI innings•BCB

Bangladesh batter Litton Das has accepted that he was dropped from the ODI squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy because of his poor form. Bangladesh announced their squad on Sunday morning and later that day Litton smashed an unbeaten 125 off 55 balls for Dhaka Capital against Durbar Rajshahi in the BPL.”The Champions Trophy selection wasn’t in my control,” Litton said after his performance. “The selectors took the call. They decide whom to play. My job is to perform. I haven’t been able to do that. I think I was a bit upset about it. I have the same mindset before and after the game today. The day has already passed. I have played a good knock but it’s in the past. I start from zero again. I will keep working hard, let’s see what happens next.”I was given a clear message. Maybe not from the selectors but it is easy to find out why I wasn’t picked in the team. I was dropped because I wasn’t performing. There’s nothing to hide about it. Basic, normal.”Related

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Litton Das and Tanzid Hasan slam tons to take Dhaka Capitals to record total

Litton and Shakib left out of Bangladesh's Champions Trophy squad

Litton hasn’t made it out of single digits in his last seven ODI innings and his previous 50-plus score was in October 2023. “Fans will support me but then when I don’t do well, people will be negative. That’s not really my concern,” he said. “I am focused on what I need to do. I haven’t been playing well, so I need to improve my game. I won’t change overnight, so I have to keep trying. People will love it when I score runs.”I am not out there to prove to anyone. I only look for improvement. I don’t think I was playing well for the last few months. I will try to become more consistent from this point, especially after this innings.”Litton began the BPL season poorly with scores of 31, 0, 2 and 9 before making 73 and 125 not out in consecutive games. The hundred helped Dhaka Capital end a run of six consecutive defeats.His unbeaten 125 contained 10 fours and nine sixes and his 241-run opening stand with Tanzid Hasan was the second highest partnership in men’s T20 cricket. Litton credited Shahin, a member of the Dhaka support staff who has given him throwdowns for years, for helping him out of his rut.”Shahin has been working in the [Dhaka Capital]) team. He has worked with Comilla Victorians for the last three years … He helps me in training all the time, and passes on information from time to time. He is capable of pointing out a batter’s mistake. That’s why I thanked him. But listen, please don’t make a news that he has now become a coach.”Litton believes Dhaka’s 149-run win against Rajshahi will help them perform better in the second half of the BPL season. “We have a good team but we haven’t been able to click so far. I think today was the first time we performed as a unit, both with bat and ball. We still have five matches left. Two teams are at the top, while the rest are around the same points. I think our run rate will improve after this game. We got our rhythm going. I don’t know if we can win the next games, but we feel more confident.”

Manchester United’s quest to return to their former glory has reached an all-time low in 2024/25, with the club registering their lowest ever Premier League finish.

The Red Devils only managed to pick up a total of 42 points from their 38 outings, also their lowest since the division’s formation in 1992, highlighting the work needed this summer.

Ruben Amorim is the latest manager tasked with the responsibility of winning the league, after numerous other candidates tried and failed to end their now 14-year drought.

Sir Alex Ferguson was the last person to lift such a trophy at Old Trafford, with millions upon millions of pounds wasted on players who are evidently not at the level required for success in England’s top flight.

The current transfer window is an opportunity to learn from their mistakes in the past and secure top-level talents who can contribute positively to their end goal of once again being a force to be reckoned with.

The latest on United’s hunt for a new striker this summer

Juventus star Dušan Vlahović has emerged as a surprise option for United this summer, with work already being done behind the scenes to complete a deal for the Serbian international.

He’s not the only one, with Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta another player on their shortlist after he scored 17 times this campaign and led the Eagles to an FA Cup triumph.

However, despite the interest in the aforementioned talents, progress has been made on a deal to land Eintracht Frankfurt talisman Hugo Ekitiké, according to one Spanish outlet.

They claim that talks have already been held with the Frenchman’s representatives over a move to Old Trafford, with a bid expected for his services in the coming days.

It also states that the hierarchy see the 22-year-old as a priority addition this summer, unsurprisingly so given his tally of 22 goals and 12 assists across all competitions this campaign.

One obstacle is likely to be the player’s asking price, reportedly valued at around £85m.

Why United’s latest target would be a better signing than Gyokeres

Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres is another striker who’s been firmly on United’s radar over the last couple of months, with the Swede undoubtedly one of Europe’s hottest prospects at present.

The 27-year-old has caught the eye with his bonkers goalscoring record, notching 54 goals in just 52 appearances across all competitions throughout the 2024/25 season.

Such form, coupled with his previous stint under Amorim, has seen him hugely linked with a move to Old Trafford, but concerns have been raised over his ability to replicate such form in the Premier League.

However, it appears as though the club could be set to miss out on his signature completely, with the talisman personally wanting a move to rivals Arsenal instead this window.

Such a decision will undoubtedly be a blow to the Red Devils’ ambitions within the market, but they shouldn’t worry, with fellow target Ekitike arguably a better addition.

The youngster has already proven his talents in one of Europe’s top five leagues, as seen by his tally of goals this campaign, demonstrating he’s more than capable of carrying such form over to England with him.

Whilst he’s been outscored by Gyokeres, he’s managed to better him in numerous key areas that are vital for a top-level striker, highlighting why he’d be a more effective option for Amorim.

Games played

33

33

Goals scored

15

39

Goals per shot on target

0.4

0.3

Pass accuracy

75%

71%

Passes into final third

0.8

0.5

Take-on success

47%

45%

Carries into final third

2

1.3

Aerials won

1.8

1.1

Ekitike, who’s been described as the “next Mbappe” by journalist Graeme Bailey, has produced a better goal per shot on target rate, proving that he’s more effective with the opportunities that fall his way in front of goal.

His all-round play is also more impressive than the Swede’s, completing more passes and winning more aerial battles per 90, having the ability to link up with players around him and provide the side with a focal point should they need to be direct.

The French star has also shown evidence that he can produce chances out of nothing, registering more carries into the final third per 90 and completing more of the take-ons he’s attempted, subsequently not relying on others around him to hand him an effort at goal.

There’s no denying that both options would massively bolster the attacking unit at Amorim’s disposal, but given the stats produced and the difference in age, there’s no doubt that Ekitike is the more attractive prospect.

If he can replicate such success at Old Trafford, he would certainly become a fan-favourite, potentially playing a huge role in their ambitions of ending their unthinkable wait for a title triumph in the years to come.

The new McTominay: Man Utd moving to sign "one of the best CMs in Serie A"

Manchester United have a player in their sights who could replicate Scott McTominay’s success.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 19, 2025

KL Rahul left the field after being struck on the elbow in an injury concern for India ahead of the first Test, while Virat Kohli shrugged off speculation over his fitness but was one of several batters caught behind the wicket in an intra-squad match simulation at the WACA.After three days in the WACA nets, India ramped up their preparations a week before the series-opener at Optus Stadium with an XI featuring their main stars out in the middle against a side filled with mostly their fringe and India A players.In perhaps an indication that he is earmarked to open the batting if captain Rohit Sharma misses the first Test, Rahul opened alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal in overcast conditions.Related

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Rahul looked in fluent touch and appeared to be handling short bowling well until he was struck on his right elbow by a rising delivery from quick Prasidh Krishna. The blow left him grimacing and he trudged off the ground after seeking medical attention.Rahul did not come out to bat later in the day as India’s main batters had another turn at the crease.Jaiswal started aggressively with a belligerent whack through the covers, but on 15 he nicked off to second slip in what would become a common sight through a simulation that lasted two-and-a-half hours before lunch.Amid reports that he has undergone scans in recent days, Kohli looked in fine touch and hit a couple of gorgeous shots through the covers. But on 15 he nicked seamer Mukesh Kumar to second slip before he then spent around 30 minutes in the nearby nets.Short-pitched bowling had been a priority for India’s batters on Thursday, with local club quicks unleashing rapid speed while some batters took part in a drill where a tennis ball was fired from close range aimed at their heads.The WACA surface so far in this simulation has had considerably less bounce and carry than Sheffield Shield matches this season. But there has been some movement off a length and India’s batters looked wanting.Rishabh Pant, who had struggled against the short ball at times during his net sessions earlier in the week, smoked a boundary through the off-side early in his innings but he seemed shaken after copping a blow to the groin. He was cleaned bowled by a quick delivery from Nitish Kumar Reddy, who was a standout after also later claiming Dhruv Jurel in the slips.KL Rahul walks off after being hit on the arm•Getty Images

No. 3 Shubman Gill started slowly and struggled to get the strike for his two-hour stay at the crease. He started looking more comfortable before on 28 fending to gully a short of a length delivery from quick Navdeep Saini who celebrated with gusto.The rare sight at the WACA of spin from both ends occurred just before the interval with Washington Sundar and Tanush Kotian bowling in tandem as the batting side reached the break at 106 for 5 after 28 overs.Befitting the simulation, with it not being an official match, India’s main batters had another go of it. It appeared there were more specific match situations being tested as Jaiswal and Gill, who was scratchy the first time around, went all-out attack.But they soon reverted to a cautious approach as they mostly dead-batted in a sedate passage of play as India’s coaching staff walked laps around the boundary.Jaiswal has looked the most comfortable against the short ball, including during the net sessions, and he was also ultra-attacking when spin came into the attack. He finished 58 not out, while Gill, who sometimes appeared anchored to the crease, made an unbeaten 42.After the final interval, Kohli and Pant returned and they were confronted by sharp short of a length bowling from Prasidh and Reddy. Kohli was particularly troubled and played and missed on several occasions. But he found his rhythm and played a few gorgeous backfoot strokes, including a pull shot to the boundary which damaged his bat and required a change.Kohli did not look in any discomfort, quelling injury fears, as he batted for an hour before finishing up on 30.Pant tried to counter the length by skipping down the pitch and he had mixed success. He was eventually bowled on 24 by the impressive Mukesh – the second time in the day his wickets had been rattled.Jurel returned and was joined by Akash Deep in the final passages as the batting side finished on 339 for 8 in a match simulation that lasted 75 overs.The simulation is expected to continue over the weekend.

Sunderland confirmed their latest addition of the summer transfer window on Thursday when they unveiled Simon Adingra as a new player for Regis Le Bris.

The Ivorian forward, who has scored eight Premier League goals in the last two seasons, is a right-footed winger who can operate on either flank and will provide competition at the top end of the pitch.

Adingra joins Chemsdine Talbi, Noah Sadiki, Habib Diallo, Reinildo, and Enzo Le Fee in making the move to the Stadium of Light ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.

There is more still to come from the Black Cats before the deadline at the start of September, though, as they are reportedly eyeing another new forward option.

Sunderland pushing to sign new winger

Despite having just signed Adingra and Talbi in the last few days, Le Bris and his recruitment team are hoping to bring in another wide option to improve the team.

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 Calcio Mercato, Sunderland are pushing to sign French winger Armand Lauriente from Italian side Sassuolo in the summer window.

The report claims that the Black Cats are continuing to put pressure on the Serie A outfit to strike a deal for the 26-year-old forward, whilst Sassuolo are eyeing up Canada international Tajon Buchanan as a possible replacement for him.

It has previously been reported that it will take a fee of around £17m to secure a transfer for the French whiz, who has also attracted interest from Roma and Marseille.

Why Sunderland should sign Lauriente

The Black Cats are right to be pushing to sign the Sassuolo star this summer because he is an exciting attacker who could be an even better signing than Adingra for the club.

In the 2024/25 campaign, Lauriente fired his side to promotion from the Serie B with an outstanding haul of 18 goals and five assists in 33 appearances from the left flank, which shows that he made a big impact in the final third on a regular basis.

Before last season, the 26-year-old star showcased his quality as both a scorer and a creator in the Serie A in the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons for Sassuolo.

Appearances

66

60

xG

9.6

6.87

Goals

12

8

Big chances created

12

9

Assists

10

3

As you can see in the table above, the French whiz produced more quality in front of goal in those two seasons than Adingra provided in his two Premier League campaigns with Brighton before his move to the Stadium of Light.

Lauriente, who was previously hailed for his “amazing” free-kick for Lorient in 2021 by talent Jacek Kulig, could provide more to the team next season than the Ivorian youngster, as a winger who has proven that he can make a huge impact in the final third in a major European league.

Sunderland should sign the winger in the hope that his electric form in the Serie B propels him on to offer even more quality at the top level than he did in the Serie A in the past.

The statistics suggest that he has more potential to make an immediate impact on the pitch in the Premier League, due to his form in the top two tiers in Italy, than Adingra next term, which is why the club should push to bring him to the club this summer.

Adingra & Lauriente's dream CF: Sunderland have big interest in £21m "icon"

Sunderland are still in the race to sign this exciting attacker who could well be Armand Lauriente and Simon Adingra’s dream partner up top.

ByKelan Sarson Jul 9, 2025

da betsul： Tottenham Hotspur’s long-awaited trophy finally came at the end of this season, but attention has quickly turned to the 2025/26 campaign, with work needing to be done to sustain the success.

da bet sport： Ange Postecoglou led the Lilywhites to a Europa League triumph, but it wasn’t enough to save his job in North London, as Daniel Levy relieved the Aussie of his duties.

He subsequently appointed Thomas Frank, handing the Dane the responsibility of building on the European victory and making the side a competitive Premier League outfit.

He will need to make a quick start to life at the club to prove the owner made the right decision in opting for a change, potentially coming under huge pressure should he fail to deliver.

However, if he is to be a success in the role, he will need backing within the current transfer window, handing him the platform for success during his first season at the helm.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Over the last couple of days, Lyon star Georges Mikautadze has emerged as a key target for Spurs, with the club expected to make an offer for the Georgian forward after their relegation to Ligue 2.

Rodrigo Muniz is another player on their radar this window, but will cost a pretty penny during the off-season, as Fulham are demanding £50m for the Brazilian forward.

However, if either of the players are to move to North London, they will need to be provided with opportunities in the final third, with Xavi Simons a player in their sights, according to GIVEMESPORT.

Their report claims that the RB Leipzig star is keen on a move to the Premier League this window, but the German outfit are demanding a fee in the region of £60m to part with their star man.

It also states that the Lilywhites have registered a keen interest in the 22-year-old, who managed to register 10 goals and seven assists in the Bundesliga this campaign, with contact already taking place as the north Londoners have been ‘updated on Simons’ situation by his representatives’.

Why Spurs’ £60m target would be a better signing than Eze

Over the last couple of years, Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze has been constantly on Spurs’ radar, but they’ve never been able to complete a deal for his signature.

This window remains no different, with Frank already targeting the England international and considering making a move to take the star to North London.

His stock is undoubtedly higher this time around, after netting the winner in the FA Cup final this campaign, securing the Eagles’ first major trophy against Manchester City at Wembley.

However, he does currently have a £68m release clause in his contract, but could face huge pressure to land his services, as North London rivals Arsenal have also entered the race.

As a result, the Lilywhites hierarchy should shift their attention to a move for Simons, with the Dutch international a better option for Frank’s outfit this window.

He would provide the side with a younger and cheaper option, but when comparing the pair’s respective figures from 2024/25, he’s also managed to outperform him in key areas – subsequently making him a higher-quality addition.

Simons, who’s been labelled “exceptional” by OptaJohan, has completed more of the passes he’s attempted, and posted more progressive passes per 90 – handing other attackers at the club the chance to bolster their own tallies.

How Xavi Simons compares to Eberechi Eze in 2024/25

Statistics (per 90)

Simons

Eze

Games played

25

34

Goals scored

10

8

Progressive carries

3.6

2.4

Progressive passes

5.9

3.3

Shot-on-target accuracy

46%

27%

Pass accuracy

79%

74%

Passes into final third

3.3

1.7

Carries into final third

3

1.6

Stats via FBref

The youngster has also starred with his ball-carrying, registering nearly two times more carries into the final third per 90, showcasing his desire to get forward at any given moment.

Given his age, price tag and difference in figures produced, a deal for Simons should be a no-brainer this window, offering Frank the elite-level talent he craves within the final third.

It would be an expensive addition for the hierarchy, but ultimately, it’s one that’s needed if the club are to reach the next level during the Dane’s tenure at the club.

There’s no denying that Eze is a hugely talented player, but it’s evident that there is a tendency for more expensive fees to be touted for English stars, subsequently making Simons the better option this window.

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Posts ByEthan Lamb Jun 27, 2025

Riyan Parag, Mayank Yadav and Shivam Dube are out injured

ESPNcricinfo staff25-Oct-2024Middle-order batter Ramandeep Singh and fast bowler Vijaykumar Vyshak have earned their maiden India call-ups for the four-match T20I series in South Africa, which begins on November 8 in Durban.Left-arm quick Yash Dayal, who has recently been part of India’s Test squad but is yet to make his international debut, has also found a place in the squad.Related

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Ramandeep’s end-overs hitting was a key cog in Kolkata Knight Riders’ storming run to the IPL title earlier this year. He only faced 62 balls in the tournament, but scored 125 runs off them at a strike rate of 201.61 – the fourth-best among all batters to have faced at least 50 balls through the season. Ramandeep can also chip in as a medium-pacer and is a gun outfielder, which he demonstrated while taking a boundary catch that went viral during the recent Emerging Teams Asia Cup in Oman.Karnataka and Royal Challengers Bengaluru seamer Vyshak has been on the fringes of national selection over the last few months, and was one of five emerging players to earn fast-bowling contracts from the BCCI. He is known for his pace variations in white-ball cricket, and has impressed in the red-ball format recently as well, taking 10 wickets at 24.90 during the Duleep Trophy.Dayal, meanwhile, was originally part of the India A squad that is embarking on a shadow tour of the senior Test squad’s tour of Australia. He has, however, been withdrawn from that tour and will be part of the T20I squad in South Africa instead. His place in the India A squad has gone to Prasidh Krishna, who has also found a place in the Test squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.The T20I squad has three notable absentees, all due to injury. Batting allrounder Riyan Parag is undergoing rehabilitation for what the BCCI’s squad announcement termed a “chronic right shoulder injury”. Fast bowler Mayank Yadav and seam-bowling allrounder Shivam Dube were also unavailable due to unspecified injuries.ESPNcricinfo LtdMayank, who made his international debut during the recent home T20Is against Bangladesh, has been troubled by constant injuries including an abdominal muscle issue that ruled him out of IPL 2024 after he had made an eye-catching tournament debut, consistently crossing 150kph while picking up the Player of the Match award in his first two games.It is not known if Dube’s injury is the same back issue that ruled him out of the recent home T20I series against Bangladesh. Middle-order batter Tilak Varma, who had replaced him for that series, keeps his place in India’s squad.There are also recalls for the fast bowler Avesh Khan and spin-bowling allrounder Axar Patel. Axar was rested from the Bangladesh T20Is because he was part of India’s Test squad during a busy home season, but he has not found a place in the touring party to Australia, with Washington Sundar effectively leapfrogging him into that squad. Axar has now taken Washington’s place in the T20I squad.With the South Africa tour partially coinciding with the Test tour of Australia, the T20I squad is also without fast bowler Harshit Rana and allrounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, as well as established all-format players including Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah and the injured Kuldeep Yadav.India are scheduled to play four T20Is in South Africa, in Durban (November 8), Gqueberha (November 10), Centurion (November 13) and Johannesburg (November 15).India squad for T20Is against South AfricaSuryakumar Yadav (capt), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ramandeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Avesh Khan, Yash Dayal.

The forward's hot start to the season continued as he smashed home his first headed goal of the campaign

Norwich defeats Portsmouth 2-1Sargent scores game-winnerAmerican on three goals this seasonFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

U.S. men's national team forward Josh Sargent scored the game-winning goal for Norwich City on Saturday as they defeated Portsmouth 2-1 in English Championship action. It was Sargent's third goal of the season, and his second in the Championship, as his hot start to the 2025-26 season continued as the earned all three points.

He timed his run to perfection, crashing home at the far post with a close-range header off a long throw-in.

AdvertisementTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Sargent has been linked with a transfer away from Leeds United all summer long, but no deal has come to fruition. In July, the reportedly reached an agreement with Wolfsburg, but the American forward rejected the transfer, opting not to return to the German Bundesliga.

Recently, promoted Premier League sides Leeds United and Burnley have been monitoring him, but no move has been made.

Sargent is searching for a big move this summer to push him into the USMNT World Cup squad next summer. He was held out of the Gold Cup this summer due to "football reasons" per manager Mauricio Pochettino.

DID YOU KNOW?

Sargent's excellent scoring record at the club level has failed to transition to the international stage in recent years. He hasn't found the back of the net for the USMNT since 2019.

Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR SARGENT?

Norwich take on Middlesbrough next weekend. It will be a contest featuring two Americans on the pitch, as Sargent will face off against Aidan Morris.

Chelsea have a plethora of players to get off the wage bill before the last summer deadline day on September 1, and their success in selling unwanted players will likely have a real effect on their recruitment plans.

Chelsea players likely to be sold this summer

Alfie Gilchrist, Renato Veiga, Lesley Ugochukwu, Raheem Sterling, João Félix, David Datro Fofana, Carney Chukwuemeka, Ben Chilwell and Axel Disasi could all leave Chelsea this summer, according to a report by The Athletic, with all of these players also missing out on a place in Chelsea’s Club World Cup squad.

"I am told" – Journalist says insiders are shocked by who Chelsea have let go

Many are apparently surprised.

By
Emilio Galantini

Jun 12, 2025

Despite actually making the cut to represent Chelsea at the CWC, midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and defender Trevoh Chalobah may have key decisions to make about their futures at Stamford Bridge as well.

Dewsbury-Hall started just two of his 13 Premier League appearances last season, playing the vast majority of his minutes in the Conference League, while Chalobah could still be sold by Chelsea despite arguably being one of their best performers during the second half of 2024/2025.

“I suspect that they will try and sell him [Chalobah] because I think that’s what the whole bringing him back was about,” said Telegraph reporter Matt Law on the London is Blue Podcast last month.

Chelsea’s best performers in the Premier League last season	Average match rating
Cole Palmer	7.33
Moises Caicedo	7.02
Enzo Fernández	6.95
Nicolas Jackson	6.88
Noni Madueke	6.82
via WhoScored

“I know that they are obviously interested in bringing in one defender. I don’t think it will be two defenders, so I think it will be one defender rather than two unless there are a lot more sales than planned, but I do fear that Trev will be on the up for sale list again. No one can be surprised because it’s the same thing that happens every year.

“I mean, it’s literally, it’s like Groundhog Day with Trev. He becomes the best player of the second half of the season, then they try and sell him.”

Armando Broja is also on the chopping block, with the striker failing to break into the Chelsea first team or replicate his stellar 2021/2022 form, when he enjoyed a productive loan spell at Southampton.

Chelsea to sell Armando Broja for just £17 million this summer

The Albania international commanded huge promise at one point, so much so that Chelsea once put a £50 million price tag on the Cobham academy graduate’s head (The Telegraph).

Now, following two failed loan spells at Fulham and Everton, Chelsea are prepared to sell Broja for just £17 million as they attempt to get him off their books.

That is according to Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, who writes that Broja remains in-demand among some circles. The 23-year-old has actually received several enquiries from teams in the Bundesliga and abroad, so Chelsea have an avenue to offload him for good.

The striker would count as pure profit through the lense of PSR given his status as an academy player, but it’s been quite the fall from grace for Broja, who must now look to kickstart his career away from west London.

Hansi Flick has dismissed the possibility of defender Ronald Araujo leaving Barcelona this summer.

• Flick dismisses Araujo's exit
• Defender to fight for starting spot
• Barca willing to sell one centre-back

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• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Despite signing a six-year contract extension in January, the centre-back has been linked with a move away following an injury-plagued campaign at the Catalan club. Premier League and Italian sides had been linked to the 26-year-old.

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• AFP
  

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Barca are currently facing an overload in defence, with sporting director Deco admitting they want to sell one defender. Due to injury, Araujo and Andreas Christensen spent much of last season on the sidelines, forcing Flick to rely on Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez in the heart of the defence. While Christensen is the one most likely to be sacrificed, reports Araujo could ask to leave should he feel he will not be given a chance.

• WHAT FLICK SAID

  Flick, though, has suggested the Uruguay international will remain, telling reporters: "Ronald? There are always many rumours about Araujo, but I have no news or any sign that he wants to leave. I have a great team, with a lot of quality. We have doubled all positions and in some I even have three players. It's not easy to manage, of course, but I'm happy."

  He added: "I'm surprised this is coming from Ronald. I'm very happy with the team I have."

• Getty Images Sport
  

  WHAT NEXT FOR ARAUJO?

  While Spanish media have recently claimed Araujo might be sold to Liverpool, the defender himself declared earlier this month that he wants to stay at the Catalan outfit. He is currently part of the squad in South Korea and featured in their first pre-season game against Vissel Kobe last week, albeit from the bench. Barca are set to play their second game tomorrow against Korean top-tier club FC Seoul.