Around the clubs - insight, analysis and fan views
Why might Arteta want Madueke?published at 17:19 18 July
17:19 18 July
Alex Howell BBC Sport football news reporter
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You can see why Mikel Arteta might be excited about the prospect of signing Noni Madueke.
His expected goals (9.6), his number of shots (80), touches in the opposition box (199) and progressive carries with the ball (242) were all higher than Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka in the Premier League last season.
Saka only played in 25 league matches compared to Madueke's 32, so it is a fairer comparison with Martinelli, who played 33 times.
Madueke also contributed a combined 10 goals and assists to Chelsea last season and could boost Arsenal's much-criticised attack.
Injuries plagued Arteta's side last season and they ended the season with limited options in the final third as they fell away in the title race.
Madueke is one of the most direct wingers in the league and Arsenal, who mainly play against teams who defend deep against them, could benefit from his eagerness to beat his defender and get a shot at goal.
The winger has joined the Gunners in a deal worth £50m, with an initial fee of around £48.5m.
Madueke joined the Blues from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023 for £30m and has scored 20 goals in 92 appearances.
The 23-year-old was part of Chelsea's Club World Cup squad and came on as a substitute as they reached the final by beating Brazilian side Fluminense 2-0, before leaving to complete his move to the Emirates.
He also leaves the club as a Conference League winner having helped the side to the trophy in 2024-25.
In a message posted on his social media, Madueke said: "Dear Chelsea Football Club, I want to thank you for the Last three or so years.
"To every staff member that helped me along this journey, thank you. To my teammates - thank you for everything, I leave with only love and admiration for you guys. We achieved so much this season and I honestly wish you guys nothing but the best.
"To Enzo Maresca, it was a privilege to play under you, thank you for trying to better me as a player and as a person.
"Lastly, thank you to every single Chelsea fan. Thank you for the love, the praise and also the criticism, I appreciate it all. I leave here with nothing but fond memories."
The England international becomes the second Blues player to move to north London this transfer window after Kepa Arrizabalaga completed a permanent move to Arsenal earlier this month.
'Right time' or 'not clever at all'? Fans on imminent Longstaff salepublished at 14:58 18 July
14:58 18 July
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We asked for your views on Sean Longstaff leaving his boyhood club for newly promoted Leeds United.
The 27-year-old academy graduate, who joined the Magpies' youth set-up in 2006, has just entered the final year of his contract and his sale would generate pure profit in terms of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Here are some of your thoughts:
Anthony: Longstaff is a consummate professional who has served the club well. A local lad who always gave his best, a loyal and valued member of the squad, a great role model to the younger players. I wish him well and I hope he regains the form that almost had him being considered by England. All the best, Sean, but don't come back to haunt us like Chris Wood.
Ste: It's a difficult one. You need homegrown players for the Champions League and we will struggle to fill that quota in our European squad. However, PSR dictates a lot and this sale presents profit for a squad player. It's disappointing that a local lad has to leave mainly because of PSR.
Brian: It may be good in a business sense, but in terms of the squad needed for all of the games next season it's not clever at all, unless they can replace him with a better player. And so far the recruitment has been very limited...
Kegs: It's the right time and the right move for the club and the player to go their separate ways. Longstaff's opportunities, with an improving Newcastle squad, are becoming fewer and fewer, and he will certainly get more game time at Leeds. A good player in the Mike Ashley era, but he doesn't fit and isn't good enough for the current one.
Russell: Sean has been a great servant to the club for the past few years and seen us through really rough times. I'm glad he was around last season to win a trophy with his boyhood club, but if we want to progress it is time for him to move on. I wish him all the best. Howay, Sean, go smash it!
Mbeumo 'will be expected to perform straight away'published at 14:11 18 July
14:11 18 July
Chris Sutton Former Premier League striker
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Bryan Mbeumo has done well at Brentford, but playing for Manchester United is very different. With respect to Brentford, there is no great expectation there.
At United, he will be expected to perform straight away.
He has experience, he is a good finisher, and his versatility is a big positive - he can play as a central striker as well as on the wing, cutting inside off the right on to his left foot.
But he has had one very good season where his numbers were very good, so the question is whether he can repeat that.
Consistency in those forward positions is what United are striving for, because they have not had it with, say, Alejandro Garnacho or Antony.
They are maybe thinking an older, more experienced player, who is more reliable, is what they need. That's Mbeumo - he fits into Ruben Amorim's system, and he fits the bill as proven Premier League quality too.
United's attack is clearly an area they need to improve. People talk about how the way they play at the back, with the back three Amorim wants, and it is a difficult system to play at times when you are trying to press high because all your players have to work hard and be really switched on.
That's why he has gone for Mbeumo, because I think he is someone he feels he can trust in all areas, in possession and out of it, with the work-rate and energy he needs - and goals too.
The deal is expected to be concluded for a guaranteed £12m - plus £3m in potential add-ons.
The North Shields-born player joined the Magpies aged nine and made his debut for them in 2018, having initially gained experience on loan at Kilmarnock and Blackpool.
His form during his first Premier League season meant he briefly became a transfer target for Manchester United, but the Red Devils baulked at the reported £50m asking price.
He was a regular starter in both 2022-23 and 2023-24, but lost his place last season. With Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton firmly established as the midfield three, Longstaff only began eight Premier League matches - none of which came after Christmas.
A move to Elland Road should give the 27-year-old the chance to play more regularly and would also see him follow in the footsteps of his uncle Alan Thompson, the former Bolton,Aston Villa and Celtic midfielder, who also had a stint with Leeds towards the end of his career.
How do you feel about Longstaff leaving his boyhood club? Does sentiment have to be put to the side, or is it important to keep local players?
Was Isak interest a smokescreen?published at 14:00 18 July
14:00 18 July
Sami Mokbel Senior football correspondent
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Liverpool's interest in Alexander Isak was - or rather is - entirely genuine.
Newcastle United, at least publicly, have maintained that the 25-year-old Sweden international simply is not for sale.
But when the Reds stepped up their efforts to land the striker earlier this week, it suggested they had had some private encouragement to the contrary.
As things stand, the former Real Sociedad forward will enter the final two years of his contract next summer - a juncture at which Newcastle face significantly more jeopardy.
Of course, Liverpool - with or without Ekitike - may enter next summer's transfer window believing they do not require another centre-forward.
But, if they do, Isak is unlikely to be too far away from their thoughts.
'The bus stop in Hounslow moves onwards and upwards'published at 09:35 18 July
09:35 18 July
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With Brentford having already lost their manager and captain, they are now going through a period of seemingly never-ending transfer speculation around their star players, so we asked for your views on the summer of upheaval for the Bees.
Here are some of your comments:
Charlie: Losing Thomas Frank will be the biggest problem. We've sold a lot of top strikers before (Neal Maupay, Said Benrahma, Ollie Watkins, Ivan Toney) and survived, but there are a lot of core players now going. Jordan Henderson could be a good leader and Igor Thiago will hopefully play and be good. With all the money coming in, I can't understand why we're not going for Liverpool's Harvey Elliott - surely a good fit?
Carl: It is a massive summer for the club. We will need to recruit across the pitch to keep up recent levels. I would raid the unhappy bunch at Manchester United and give people like Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho their mojo back - in exchange for a fulfilling life with less money!
Darrell: Brentford fans expect nothing. Look at where we came from? The past 13 years have been one hell of a journey, but there is no doubt that the summer of 2025 is going to test the club's approach. Bring it on!
Stuart: A difficult summer with Bryan Mbeumo and Frank swapping mid-table obscurity for a relegation dog-fight, Mark Flekken heading off to Germany, Christian Norgaard off to sit on Arsenal's bench, and now speculation about Yoane Wissa. But it is not all doom and gloom. We have upgraded our keeper, Henderson is a perfectly able short-term replacement for Noorgard, Thiago will shine up front in place of Wissa, and hopefully we can get a deal done for Omari Hutchinson as a replacement for Mbeumo. The only uncertainty is whether or not our new manager can successfully make the step up. Come on, you Bees!
HerzyBee: Brentford fans embrace change as part of the club's development. We trust the management to fire up the conveyor belt of talent and replace those who have moved on. There is a bond of trust that the club looks forward but learns from the past. 'Little old Brentford' has gone - and the 'bus stop in Hounslow' moves onward and upwards...
Anthony: We at Brentford know what we are - a selling club. Every year we sell our star. Every year we are doomed by the media for relegation. Every year pundits are surprised by us and a new star emerges. Keep doubting us, because we revel in it! Here's to another year of critics being wrong!
Newcastle 'building something unique and special' - Elangapublished at 08:44 18 July
08:44 18 July
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Newcastle's new winger Anthony Elanga says it was "perfect timing" to make his £55m move from Nottingham Forest.
The 23-year-old Sweden international has been training with his new team-mates in their pre-season camp in Austria and will be available to make his first Magpies appearance in Saturday's friendly against Scottish champions Celtic in Glasgow.
"It's been amazing," he told BBC Radio Newcastle's Matthew Raisbeck. "I've only been here a week, but it feels like I've been here for years.
"The way I'm getting on with the lads and the way they made me feel welcome is a credit to them - but also credit to me for opening myself up, wanting to learn and wanting to know them.
"I know there is a lot more to come. I'm just trying to take it day by day and enjoy it as much as I can."
Elanga scored six goals and provided 11 assists for Forest in 2024-25 as they secured Conference League qualification - now seemingly upgraded to Europa League - but he believes it was the right time to move to Newcastle, who are in this season's Champions League.
"It's about looking at the project and what they're building here is something unique and special," he added. "Not taking anything away from Nottingham Forest because we had an amazing season there as a collective, and me individually - although I know I can do a lot more.
"Coming here, I want to showcase my ability and my talent with an amazing manager in Eddie Howe and his amazing staff.
"The players here will help me elevate my game even further and I think it is the right time for me. It's something I want to be a part of.
"The fanbase is so passionate about football. It was a no-brainer really. It is the perfect timing. I'm trying to take it all in and it's amazing."
'I want to have a more positive season' - Milnerpublished at 17:49 17 July
17:49 17 July
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James Milner says he is "feeling good" after a "long journey" back to fitness.
Milner underwent routine knee surgery after a knock in training in August 2024 but complications with the operation led to a long period of rehab.
The 39-year-old returned after nine months out in the final game of last season.
"I'm not 100% yet. We haven't had too much of pre-season but I've been training hard," Milner told the Seagulls' media team from the club's training camp in Spain.
"Nine months is a long time out so that takes time but I've been working hard over the summer and come back in the best possible shape I can.
"After all the things that happened in the last year or so, I'm feeling good to be fair.
"The early part of the rehab was to just get the knee moving again so I could do my knee rehab. We tried everything in the gym and hyperbaric chambers, hot coals, all different types of therapies.
"Sean Duggan the physio was incredible. It's not a common injury. At that time it was a difficult ask to come back and play but through the physio department and Sean's hard work - it was a long journey and a difficult one but the challenge of coming back from it at my age was what drove me on."
Milner is now preparing for his 24th Premier League season and is 16 appearances away from breaking Gareth Barry's all-time record. The three-time Premier League winner never thought about giving up despite his lengthy spell on the sidelines.
"I wouldn't say there was dark times but there was frustrating times," he added.
"There was times where I'd get to five or six weeks constantly then needed a break for two or three days, just a change of scenery to regain the focus and the intensity.
"I wouldn't say I got too down about it. There is the determination to get back and try and contribute and help the manager and club move forward. I want to have a more positive season this time round."
What can Ekitike bring to Liverpool?published at 16:15 17 July
16:15 17 July
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Former West Ham and Wolves first-team coach Edu Rubio on the prospect of Hugo Ektike joining Liverpool: "He can be a great signing for Liverpool FC. He can play on his own at the front or in a front two. He can also drift to the wing. He is versatile and comes from 18 excellent months at Frankfurt.
"Ekitike excels in quick attacking transitions with his forward runs and his accuracy in dribbling with the ball at his feet. He can also do well in tight areas when his team is playing against a low block. His height will also come in handy for set pieces.
"There is, though, a question mark around whether Ekitike will manage to up his goals and assists and find consistent high figures in this department; as well as if he can deploy an aggressive high-press style since he has not been exposed to that at Frankfurt.
"However, he is a very exciting young French talent with huge potential to do very well in the Premier League. I am sure Arne Slot will also like his link-up play and ability to drop to help build the attack phase, as this is an area Liverpool introduced last year. So all in all, a good signing for the Reds."
Is Ekitike 'a better fit than Isak'?published at 14:14 17 July
14:14 17 July
Image source, Getty Images
We asked for thoughts on Liverpool moving for Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, who had been a Newcastle target amid Reds interest in Magpies star Alexander Isak.
Here are some of your comments on a deal that could be worth in excess of £70m:
Alfie: He is one of the best young strikers in the world. He would be an unbelievable addition to not just Liverpool, but the Premier League as well. If he does join us, it would complete the deadliest attack in the world.
Fran: Ekitike is more in line with Liverpool's approach. He's still young and can be coached to improve. Isak is nearly 26. Very good player but I like Ekitike and think he's a better fit.
Solomon: Very good signing if it goes through. We definitely need an upgrade on Darwin Nunez. My only concern is we had the same high expectations of Nunez but he has flattered to deceive.
Ryan: I can't pretend to be an expert on the kid but from what I've seen, he looks a terrific talent. I fully trust the club in their judgement and think he could form a formidable partnership with the attacking players we already have, so great news. We all know Isak would have been our prime target but, realistically, unless he hands in a transfer request, he is going nowhere.
Andrew: This does feel a bit underwhelming after the Isak news. Has potential but is unproven in the Premier League. I remain hopeful, though, and there haven't been too many misses from the FSG recruitment team.
Thom: I'd rather Liverpool pay £70m on a player, rather than £130m-plus on Isak. He's a great player, but at that price? Not for me.
Tony: Ekitike could be the perfect striker for Liverpool. Quick, intelligent and able to link up with Florian Wirtz to create space, mayhem and opportunities for himself and our other frontmen.
'At some point, he will leave'published at 14:02 17 July
14:02 17 July
Charlotte Robson Fan writer
Image source, Getty Images
I want to tour other Premier League clubs with a big 'HANDS OFF ALEX ISAK' sign and wave it around. What good will that do? I don't know. But it feels like a statement I want to make.
Pleasingly, the noises coming from Newcastle United at the moment make it seem like Isak is not for sale, and will still be in black and white this September. This is huge for Newcastle's season, with Champions League football returning and hopefully another decent cup run to come. Without Isak, I think a lot of our hopes of finishing high in the table, doing respectably in the Champions League, and generally having a happy time this season fade away.
At some point, he will leave. I don't believe Isak is so in love with Newcastle United that he wants to stay years and finish his career here. He's an ambitious player who probably wants to be playing in the best leagues in the world.
I, however, don't think it's inevitable that he leaves this time next year, but I do think it's more likely. His price will still be high; he will only be 26. At that point, it makes no sense from a PSR perspective to hold on - particularly if the player himself is ready to move.
It's frustrating that this is where we are, financially, and at the same time I understand it. It would be lovely to just fling cash at players, keep them happy, and buy reinforcements. It would also be boring and not good for the game if, say, three rich clubs just did that all the time. I'm just glad we look like we might keep hold of Isak for another massive season at Newcastle United, and develop/scout other players in case we find ourselves without him next.
Dunk? Van Hecke? Baleba? Tell us who Brighton's nailed-on starters arepublished at 09:05 17 July
09:05 17 July
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With so many incomings at Brighton already this summer, along with a number of players returning from loan spells, BBC Radio Sussex's Albion Unlimited podcast team believes Fabian Hurzeler could have quite the "headache" when it comes to picking his starting XI for the new season.
There are still question marks over a few of the players' futures too, which adds to the difficulties in deciding who will be guaranteed a place come August.
In fact, after Wednesday's friendly win over Stoke in Spain, Hurzeler said: "The squad is quite big at the moment but I think they understand their roles. We are one step further than we were, and now we have to make decisions about selling and loaning players."
On this week's podcast, BBC Radio Sussex Brighton reporter Johnny Cantor named who he believes is mostly like to make the starting XI at the beginning of the season.
"I would probably say Bart Verbruggen. I would say initially Lewis Dunk because I think he will start. I won't necessarily say Pervis Estupinan as I'm not sure he will be there or not. I would say Carlos Baleba, Georginio Rutter, Yankuba Minteh, Kaoru Mitoma and Danny Welbeck.
"If they are all fit, and bearing in mind Stefanos Tzimas and Charalampos Kostoulas are coming to a new club and environment, that's how I think the attacking end will look.
"I didn't say Jan Paul van Hecke - because that would mean neither of the two new defensive signings would play - and you have got Adam Webster and Igor Julio sitting on the bench or not involved at all as well. They won't have four centre-backs."
Former Albion forward Warren Aspinall added: "I will go with three or four - Mitoma, Verbruggen and Van Hecke. I'm not even putting Carlos Baleba in there."
So who do you think are Brighton's guaranteed choices? Do you agree with Johnny and Warren's, or are there other players who should be included?
"It is certainly one that Forest could have been doing without and one that has got the fans worried," Fray said on the Shut Up And Show More Football podcast.
"On the back of the exit of Anthony Elanga to Newcastle, fans were willing to accept that a big sale might be necessary this summer because that's life in the days of PSR and the Premier League. Although disappointed with that possibility and subsequent reality, people accepted that.
"But, to have this right on the heel of the Elanga deal caused a lot of concern among supporters, and still is. It is a moving situation and things may change quickly - but it is messy, it is horrible, Forest don't want to be there in that situation. I'm fairly sure Gibbs-White doesn't either."
Gibbs-White returned to training with Forest this week, adding to the speculation surrounding his future.
"It's going to be interesting to see how it plays out from here," added Fray.
"Most thought it would be ironed out and the transfer go through. Not many were expecting him back at training and here he is. That is another twist in the story.
"Forest have set their stall out that they aren't looking for a quick resolution. They want to keep him."
Were Chelsea right to cash in on Petrovic?published at 09:04 17 July
09:04 17 July
Tom McCoy BBC Sport journalist
Last season, Chelsea sent Djordje Petrovic on loan to Strasbourg, where he was voted the club's player of the year.
But, rather than welcoming the goalkeeper back into the squad as competition for Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen, the Blues have instead sold the Serb to Bournemouth for £25m, banking an £11m profit on what they paid for him in 2023.
One of the reasons Chelsea loaned Petrovic to their partner club was to help him improve his ability on the ball, BBC Sport football news reporter Nizaar Kinsella reported in March.
Though Petrovic's passing stats did not notably improve during his year in France, his distribution over the past 12 months was still more accurate than Sanchez, who posted lower figures for pass accuracy and long pass accuracy. Cup keeper Jorgensen, meanwhile, finished with a better record than both.
Where Petrovic stood out with Strasbourg was in his shot-stopping. He prevented almost 10 goals more than an average goalkeeper would save, based on the expected goals on target model. That total was the sixth highest in the top five European leagues last term.
Sanchez, however, excelled as Chelsea lifted the Club World Cup, where he won the Golden Glove given to the tournament's best goalkeeper.
The Spaniard made several key saves in the final against Paris St-Germain, also impressing with some pin-point passes to set up attacks. Despite occasional shaky moments in 2025-26, he seems likely to remain number one for the new season.
Who else could be interested in Isak amid Liverpool links?published at 09:03 17 July
09:03 17 July
Gary Rose BBC Sport journalist
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Newcastle have maintained throughout the summer that their top players - and Alexander Isak is certainly one of those - are not for sale.
Indeed, like Liverpool, Newcastle - who are owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) - are in a comfortable PSR position.
Isak has three years left on his contract, so the Swede would most likely have to actively push for a move.
Apart from Liverpool, few other clubs in the market for a striker could afford Isak's reported £130m price tag.
"As the most profitable club in Premier League history, Arsenal could easily spend over £200m in the window and have no PSR concerns," said football finance expert Kieran Maguire.
Despite Isak having been linked with a move to Arsenal, the Gunners are instead expected to reach a full agreement with Sporting for the 73.5m euros (£63.5m) signing of striker Viktor Gyokeres this summer.
Manchester City are unlikely to be in the market for a striker, with Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush under lengthy contracts.
It seems doubtful that Manchester United would be able to afford Isak's fee without significant player sales, having missed out on Champions League football next season.
Chelsea have bought strikers Liam Delap and Joao Pedro this window.
"In theory, Tottenham could also afford Isak," said Maguire. "But whether the player would want to move from a team who finished fifth to one who finished 17th is a whole other story."
Who is Serbia 'national hero' Petrovic?published at 17:17 16 July
17:17 16 July
Slobodan Maricic BBC Serbia journalist
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The baggage of Serbia goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic has been checked in for several different destinations all over Europe in the past couple of months, according to the transfer gossip.
He was linked with Galatasaray, Bayer Leverkusen and Monaco, as well as several Premier League clubs like Leeds, Southampton and Aston Villa.
But, after a standout season at the French side Strasbourg, where he was on loan from Chelsea, he has landed in Bournemouth.
The strong interest in the 25-year-old from the city of Pozarevac, in central Serbia, comes as no surprise to football fans back home - Petrovic is living the best of his days.
Last season, he helped Strasbourg finish seventh and was rewarded with a place in the Serbia squad, and he now has seven caps.
Saving a penalty in the World Cup qualifier against Albania – a match charged with a lot of tension, because of politics and history – even earned him national hero status.
The German media compared him with Manuel Neuer, one of the best goalkeepers of the century, due to their similar height, footwork and pass accuracy.
His former coaches commend Petrovic's physical attributes, noting his strength in the air and willingness to come off the line, particularly noting his effectiveness in one-on-one situations and at stopping penalties.
Up until his move to Chelsea in 2023 from Major League Soccer side New England Revolution, he was a relatively unknown name in Serbia.
He came up through Cukaricki, a club from the capital Belgrade, that has a notably smaller fanbase than the two Belgrade giants, Red Star or Partizan.
His move to the United States did not do much for his visibility, but he did win a place in the MLS All-Star squad before his £12.5m switch to the Premier League made him the most expensive Serbian keeper in history.
The 21-year-old only managed three Premier League goals and two assists as the Tractor Boys were relegated last season, so why are the Bees prepared to pay a club record fee to bring the former Chelsea player back to west London?
Hutchinson displayed only fleeting moments of quality as Ipswich struggled last term but put himself in the shop window at this summer's European Under-21 Championship, where he was a key part of the England side that retained their title, including scoring in the final against Germany.
Deployed on the left wing - a role he has rarely played for the Suffolk club, despite being left footed - Hutchinson was a constant menace with his direct running.
He attempted 29 dribbles - at least six more than any other player, including nine in the semi-final against the Netherlands, when he repeatedly beat his opposite man.
The former and Chelsea youngster also had 35 touches in the opposition box at the tournament, second only to Germany's rising star Nick Woltemade, and created 11 chances - the joint-third highest total.
It was harder for Hutchinson to make the same kind of impact in the Premier League, with his Ipswich team often penned into their own half and struggling to get the ball to their attacking players.
Fielded either as a number 10 or on the right, he nonetheless showed a willingness to run with the ball and attempted 147 'take-ons' (trying to dribble past an opponent), which was the league's fifth-highest tally.
The step up in quality was undoubtedly a challenge for him, but Brentford, who are renowned for their data-led approach to recruitment, have seen enough promise to try to prise him away from Portman Road.
'The picture is too cloudy for any Man Utd fan to feel confident'published at 13:25 16 July
13:25 16 July
Simon Stone Chief football news reporter
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Injuries have dented the confidence of Luke Shaw and Lisandro Martinez, who must compete for a place in a defence containing promising youngsters Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven.
Andre Onana's pre-season hamstring issue gives Amorim an opportunity to assess his goalkeeping options but, in truth, unless 21-year-old Radek Vitek steps up, the choice will be to stick or twist with the Cameroon international, given Altay Bayindir was given his chance at the end of last season and failed to impress.
It is a similar story in attack.
The pursuit of Liam Delap, who instead chose Chelsea, emphasises Amorim feels he can improve on Rasmus Hojlund.
Viktor Gyokeres, who played for Amorim at Sporting, has also decided against a move to United.
Ollie Watkins, who lost his place at Aston Villa when Marcus Rashford arrived from United on loan, has been linked with a move to Old Trafford. So too have out-of-contract pair Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Jamie Vardy. They are all names to suggest United might be better off giving Hojlund one more chance.
But can Amorim trust that the Dane is ready to fulfil the promise that prompted United to pay Atalanta £72m for him two years ago?
Hojlund himself has been linked with his old boss Gian Piero Gasperini at Roma. But, as with so many players, turning vague interest into reality is not easy.
When he spoke to fanzine United We Stand last month, chief executive Omar Berrada said the pain of last season's 15th-placed finish, the worst since the 1973-74 relegation campaign, was self-inflicted in the belief reward would follow.
"He [Amorim] has suffered in the Premier League, and the team has suffered," Berrarda said.
"But we saw it as an investment for the following seasons, because we were going to give time to Ruben to get to know the squad, the club and the Premier League, so by the time that we got to now, we'll have had all the discussions about what the squad needs and the two-to-three-year plan to get to a squad that's capable of winning the Premier League."
There is still time before the opening Premier League game against Arsenal on 17 August for the clarity Amorim seemed so sure of when he spoke in Hong Kong to emerge.
But as of now, the picture is too cloudy for any United fan to feel confident about what lies ahead.
'Consummate professional' - why James' deal makes sensepublished at 12:01 16 July
12:01 16 July
Adam Pope BBC Radio Leeds reporter
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Dan James' deal to remain at Leeds United for a further four years is a clever move by the club and deserved for the player.
The flying winger's popularity has grown with supporters since he returned from a loan spell at Fulham, a deal that felt like he did not want but was the wish of then head coach Jesse Marsch.
His assists and goal contributions since returning to Elland Road in the summer of 2023 have been impressive but more so has his attitude. The Wales international has never moaned about being cast out from the club he now calls very much home.
It is a home of course from which he had the keys snatched in 2019 when at the 11th hour Swansea City chairman Huw Jenkins refused to sanction Leeds' attempt to sign him as the January transfer window closed.
This is a player who immediately after being present for the birth of his son in Manchester flew by helicopter to play 90 minutes and score in a victorious penalty shootout for Marcelo Bielsa's Leeds side at Craven Cottage in a League Cup tie.
This is a guy who also bears the scars of playing for United.
His tousled fringe can barely hide the huge wound on his forehead incurred in a head clash with Southampton's Kyle Walker-Peters in the 2024 Championship play-off final defeat at Wembley.
Bloodied, bandaged but unbowed, James returned to the fray to almost take the game to extra time with a stunning volley that crashed off the crossbar.
Having almost rescued that first full season under Daniel Farke, James was essential to Leeds' Championship title victory and a return to the Premier League the following year.
What is more, with the club having to skilfully navigate the choppy PSR waters, the amortisation of the remainder of his original £25m transfer fee over another four years makes shrewd financial sense, as does keeping a loyal and consummate professional.
The Colombian enjoyed his most prolific season for a single club as the Reds won the league title in 2024-25, scoring 17 goals.
Unsurprisingly, Diaz's shot conversion rate of 18.3% comfortably ranks as his best in a Premier League season.
Many of his other attributes stood out statistically, with Diaz hovering just outside the top 10 in the Premier League for most combined goals and assists (18), shots on target (30), chances created (56) and dribbles completed (52).
His defensive attributes and renowned work-rate are also evidenced by the fact he won possession in the final third on 22 occasions, more than any other Liverpool player relative to their time spent on the pitch.
Peaceful protest 'just the start'published at 11:23 16 July
11:23 16 July
Jay Crame Fan writer
Image source, Getty Images
The gathering of Crystal Palace fans in and around Selhurst Park on Tuesday night was just the start - a peaceful protest that was not just about Palace, but about the sport we love that is slowly being taken away from us. This is about football.
What has happened to Palace could happen to any club. The frustration is that we have not been allowed to enjoy the FA Cup win this summer as we should have been and, with Uefa dragging its feet over a decision, it has also impacted the club in terms of planning for the new season.
Yes, we still have European football, but there is a vast difference between the two competitions. Not just that, but the FA Cup winners face a two-legged play-off in the Conference League.
The Palace fans who congregated, led by the Holmesdale Fanatics, showed everyone the level of frustration we are all feeling.
All ages were in attendance, along with some fans of other clubs supporting our cause, targeting Uefa and its rules that we think are unfit for purpose.
Palace are extremely well run financially and have not been in the spotlight, but are being made an example of.
You have to ask yourself if this would happen to Real Madrid, Barcelona etc.
This is just the start. Football fans need to make a stand against what is happening to our sport.
There is no reason to exclude the Eagles from their rightful place in the Europa League.
Head coach Graham Potter believes the £19m Senegal defender, who can play at left-back or left wing-back, is a "really good fit" for the Hammers. Here are some of your comments:
Bobby: Young, quick and gets forward. He had Bukayo Saka in his pocket in the recent friendly against England. A very good signing.
John: Very well thought of at Slavia Prague. He looked great against England. Potter has a decent record of improving young players so this seems a very sensible signing to me and, crucially, for sensible money.
Len: Looks like we could have a gem. He could be a much better player than Mohammed Kudus. He has more assists and an eye for goal, so add that to his determination and West Ham should be OK next season.
Dave: At long last, we have brought someone in and he is around the right age. We now need to back this up with some more signings. Keep David Sullivan and Karren Brady away from the transfers and leave it to Potter, then perhaps we might be able to build a team that performs better than the past few seasons.
Jamie: About time we got someone. He is a solid player and we have had some great deals from the Czech league. This guy looks like he has everything to succeed at the highest level and he is young with plenty of room to grow.
Rob: So the rebuild finally begins at West Ham. Let's hope we sign another two or three before we kick the new season off. Potter needs a chance to prove himself with his signings.
Nwaneri agrees new long-term Gunners contractpublished at 09:57 16 July
09:57 16 July
Sami Mokbel Senior football correspondent
Image source, Getty Images
Arsenal teenager Ethan Nwaneri has agreed a new long-term contract with the Premier League club.
BBC Sport revealed on Sunday that the Gunners were set to make a formal offer to Nwaneri this week with the clear direction of travel being the youngster committing his future to the club.
It is understood the new contract is for up to five years.
Sources have indicated the size of the new contract represents Nwaneri's position as one of European football's best young players with the Gunners reflecting his growing status with a new lucrative deal.
Talks over fresh terms have accelerated in recent days amid a will from all parties to reach an agreement.
While the deal has not been formally signed, BBC Sport understands the remaining steps towards Nwaneri putting pen to paper should be a formality.
Image source, Getty Images
![Goalkeeper comparison last season [all competitions]:
Petrovic (Strasbourg): 31 games, 10 clean sheets, 38 goals conceded, 1.2 goals conceded per game, 74.5% save percentage, 9.9 goals prevented (xGOT), 78.8% passing accuracy, 92.6% passing accuracy own half, 37.2% long pass accuracy
Sanchez (Chelsea): 40 games, 13 clean sheets, 42 goals conceded, 1.1 goals conceded per game, 73.6% save percentage, 5.1 goals prevented (xGOT), 66.5% passing accuracy, 88.6% passing accuracy own half, 28.6% long pass accuracy
Jorgensen (Chelsea): 24 games, 10 clean sheets, 22 goals conceded, 0.9 goals conceded per game, 76.3% save percentage, 5.9 goals prevented (xGOT), 89.6% passing accuracy, 96.5% passing accuracy own half, 39.3% long pass accuracy](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/640/cpsprodpb/2234/live/092f0980-6262-11f0-b1b9-2b94c1f6d9f3.png.webp)
