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Many protagonists of that final will not be in action in this series, but can South Africa hit back at home?

Hemant Brar07-Nov-2024Big picture: Rematch of T20 World Cup finalIn one way, Friday’s T20I between South Africa and India is a grudge match. The last time these two sides met was in Barbados, in the 2024 T20 World Cup final. India had no business winning that match when South Africa needed 30 off 30 balls with six wickets in hand. But Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya and Co snatched the win, and the trophy, from South Africa’s grasp, leaving them heartbroken.In another way, it is not. Many protagonists of that final will not be in action in this series. From India’s XI for the final, only four – Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya Axar Patel and Arshdeep Singh – are part of the current squad. South Africa, too, are without Quinton de Kock, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje and Tabraiz Shamsi.Therefore, this four-match series might look inconsequential. But don’t forget, the next T20 World Cup is only 15 months away, and the teams have already started preparing for it.Related

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India recently faced a shock whitewash at home at the hands of New Zealand, but that was in Test cricket. Their T20I side, which has never been more different from their Test team, is coming on the back of a thumping 3-0 series win against Bangladesh. Continuing their attacking template from the World Cup, they posted a gigantic 297 for 6 in their most recent T20I.South Africa are yet to recover from their defeat in the final. Since then, they have lost 3-0 to West Indies and drew 1-1 against Ireland in the format. Playing at home now, can they bounce back?Form guideSouth Africa LWLLL (last five T20Is, most recent first)
India WWWWWIn the spotlight: Aiden Markram and Tilak VarmaAiden Markram has crossed 25 only once in 14 T20I innings this year. His tally in the format is 201, at an average of 16.75 and a strike rate of 118.23. This is in complete contrast to his career numbers: average 32.17, strike rate 144.62. On the eve of the first T20I against India, he said he was in a good space mentally. Both he and South Africa would want that to be converted into runs.Can Aiden Markram turn his form around?•Getty ImagesA couple of freak hand injuries earlier this year had put Tilak Varma’s career on hold. While he is back in the mix now, the competition has got intense. He was drafted in for the Bangladesh T20Is as an injury replacement for Shivam Dube but did not get a match. After that, he led India at the Emerging Asia Cup in Oman where his returns were unglamorous: 117 runs in four innings at a strike rate of 120.61. Can he step up against a much tougher opponent?Team news: Debuts for Simelane and Ramandeep?South Africa could hand a debut to allrounder Andile Simelane. Simelane plays his domestic cricket at Kingsmead, which could come in handy.South Africa (probable): 1 Reeza Hendricks, 2 Ryan Rickelton (wk), 3 Aiden Markram (capt), 4 Tristan Stubbs, 5 Heinrich Klaasen, 6 David Miller, 7 Marco Jansen/Gerald Coetzee, 8 Andile Simelane, 9 Nqabayomzi Peter, 10 Keshav Maharaj, 11 Ottneil BaartmanIndia are likely to hand batting allrounder Ramandeep Singh his T20I cap. Axar Patel should also get a chance after warming the bench during the New Zealand Test series.India (probable): 1 Sanju Samson (wk), 2 Abhishek Sharma, 3 Suryakumar Yadav (capt), 4 Tilak Varma, 5 Hardik Pandya, 6 Rinku Singh, 7 Ramandeep Singh, 8 Axar Patel, 9 Avesh Khan, 10 Arshdeep Singh, 11 Varun ChakravarthyPitch and conditions: Runs ‘n RainsSouth Africa do not have happy memories of Durban. Last year, Australia whitewashed them in a series of three T20Is, all played at this venue. It’s a high-scoring venue; the average first-innings total in the last seven T20Is here is 184. However, the weather could spoil things – there is a 40% chance of rain on Friday. The last time India were supposed to play a T20I here, in December 2023, rain did not allow even the toss.Stats and trivia: Suryakumar’s strike rate India have a strong head-to-head record against South Africa in South Africa: six wins and three losses in nine T20Is. Among those who have scored at least 1000 T20I runs, Suryakumar has the highest strike rate (169.48). Arshdeep Singh is India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is this year, with 28 scalps in 14 games. In nine T20I innings against India, Heinrich Klaasen has three half-centuries and a strike rate of 168.09. Quotes”It has been a testing few months now. Obviously, we have addressed the reasons behind it, growth opportunities, things that are going to make cricketers better in South Africa over a long period of time. But as a captain, it hurts your pride and I have got a lot of pride wearing this badge and want to carry it forward and want to win games and win series for South Africa. But you lock into the bigger picture, you lock into how much it is going to help cricket in South Africa moving forward. Sometimes you have to go through these tough times and hopefully there will be some light at the end of the tunnel.”
“It has always been challenging playing against South Africa, be it in the T20 World Cup or any bilateral. The last time when we were here, we had a good series. Hopefully, we will have a game [tomorrow]; last time we missed out on the game here. But yeah, it’s always fun and challenging and both sides enjoy having that great competition.”

Enzo Maresca is wasting no time in building a Chelsea squad which he hopes will progress in both the Premier League and Champions League next season.

The first port of call is to go all the way in the Club World Cup. Not only would it see Maresca claim his second piece of silverware with the Blues, but it would also net them around $125m in prize money.

Chelsea’s results at the Club World Cup
Date	Opponent and score	Stage
July 5	Palmeiras (Won 2-1)	Quarter-final
June 28	Benfica (Won 4-1)	Last 16
June 25	Esperance (Won 3-0)	Group stage
June 20	Flamengo (Lost 3-1)	Group stage
June 16	LAFC (Won 2-0)	Group stage

Considering they have spent £60m on Joao Pedro, £51.5m on Jamie Gittens and £30m on Liam Delap since the start of June, this would be a nice bonus.

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Everything you need to know about the Club World Cup.

By
Charlie Smith

Jun 13, 2025

Just two more wins would seal the title, and it could provide a nice momentum booster heading into 2025/26 for the Blues.

Several players have impressed thus far. Delap has scored once and grabbed an assist, while Pedro Neto has also been a big hit.

The Portuguese winger has scored three goals stateside, along with averaging 2.5 key passes and creating two big chances throughout the competition.

As ever, Cole Palmer has been excellent for the Blues at the Club World Cup and Maresca will be keen on building his squad around the former Manchester City starlet, no doubt about that.

Why Cole Palmer is so important to Chelsea

The £40m that Chelsea spent to lure Palmer to London in 2023 is turning into a bigger bargain every week.

At the time of writing, he is currently valued at £103m via Transfermarkt and there is no doubt that this valuation will continue to rise as long as he is performing well.

His debut campaign at Stamford Bridge saw the youngster register 40 goal contributions – 25 goals and 15 assists – and he continued this rich vein of form under Maresca last season.

While he may have scored fewer goals (15) and recorded fewer assists (12), Palmer was still crucial to the Blues as they sealed a Champions League spot and won the Conference League.

Aside from his goal involvements last term, the Englishman created a staggering 24 big chances in the Premier League. Furthermore, he averaged 2.4 key passes and succeeded with 53% of his dribble attempts.

Furthermore, when compared to his peers in the top flight, Palmer ranked in the top 9% for progressive passes (6.04), in the top 4% for shot-creating actions (5.7) and in the top 8% for through balls (0.62) per 90.

This suggests he offers far more than simply a goalscoring threat in the final third. At the Club World Cup, the 23-year-old is showing plenty of promise ahead of his third season with the club.

As such, Palmer ranks first in the Chelsea squad for shots per game (4) at the tournament, while also ranking third for big chances created (2), second for key passes (1.8) and third for successful dribbles per game (2.3).

If he maintains this sort of form over the next two matches, the Blues have a great chance of securing the trophy.

Maresca would love to sign another Palmer-like player for the Blues, so could he perhaps raid another Premier League side for one of their most talented youngsters?

Chelsea eyeing yet more transfers

While the Blues are keen to bolster their first-team squad with yet more additions, it is clear that moving several players on will be required too.

Nicolas Jackson has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge this summer. As to have Christopher Nkunku and Joao Felix.

This will free up the wage bill significantly, allowing others to make moves to the club. Noni Madueke is another who appears close to departing the Blues.

A formal offer is reportedly being lined up by Arsenal for the winger, and if conditions are met, Maresca will let the player leave.

There could be more to the potential deal, however, as Gunners insider, Hand of Arsenal, claims that the Blues wish to sign one of their youngsters.

Taking to social media they revealed that during talks for Madueke, Chelsea ‘floated the idea of involving wonderkid Max Dowman’ in the deal.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Sadly for Maresca and Co, this was rather unsurprisingly rejected as Arsenal view him as their “crown jewel.”

Although the initial proposal might have been rejected straight away, might Maresca make another cheeky approach? If so, it could be another Palmer situation.

Why Chelsea want to sign Max Dowman

Dowman is only 15 years old, but he has already racked up 14 appearances for England at U17 level, scoring four goals in the process.

It won’t be long before he makes the step-up to the age group above him, such is his superb potential and talent.

Last season saw Dowman give the supporters a glimpse into the future, showing exactly what he is capable of.

Across 23 matches for the U18 and youth teams, Dowman registered Palmer levels of goalscoring and creativity, not only scoring 19 goals, but he also chipped in with five assists. That is a simply excellent return for someone who can’t even legally drive for another 18 months.

While playing for England U17s against the Czech Republic at the Euro U17 tournament recently, he scored and recorded an assist, leading to heavy praise from Arsenal academy expert Will Balsam, who said that “Dowman was unstoppable.”

The praise for this young jewel doesn’t stop there. Teammate Declan Rice has described him as the “best 15-year-old in the country” while the aforementioned Balsam has claimed that the in-demand playmaker is the “biggest talent in England”.

While Arsenal won’t be looking to let Dowman go by any stretch of the imagination, the fact that the Blues want to include him as part of the deal shows how talented he is.

One for the future perhaps, but if things don’t go to plan at the Gunners, Maresca will have one eye on nabbing his next version of Palmer.

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Despite signing João Pedro and Jamie Gittens in the last week, Chelsea are now expected to bid £50m+ for a Premier League “superstar”.

By
Ben Gray

Jul 7, 2025

Glasgow Rangers are closing in on yet another addition to their first-team squad this week, having already made a host of signings to bolster Russell Martin’s squad.

Max Aarons, Lyall Cameron, Joe Rothwell, Emmanuel Fernandez, and Thelo Aasgaard have all already arrived to improve the manager’s options across the pitch at Ibrox.

The Scottish Premiership giants are not done there, though, as Martin and sporting director Kevin Thelwell are eyeing up several more signings to ensure that the team is ready to compete with Celtic next season.

Sheffield Wednesday’s versatile attacker Djeidi Gassama could be the next player to arrive at Ibrox, as reporter Joe Crann claims that a deal has been agreed between the two clubs.

Rangers have already agreed personal terms with the 21-year-old forward, who came up through the Paris Saint-Germain academy, and it now seems like just a matter of time before he holds up the scarf.

What Djeidi Gassama could bring to Rangers

The French youngster is an exciting young talent who could bring speed, goals, and dribbles to the left flank for the Scottish giants next season.

He is still learning and developing as a player, which means that the attacker is far from the finished article, but his performances in the Championship last season suggest that Gassama could make an instant impact in the Premiership as a goal threat.

The Owls star ended the season with a return of seven goals from 5.92 xG in the second tier of English football, which shows that he offered a decent goal threat and finished the chances that he was provided with at an impressive rate.

A consistent goal threat on the left wing is exactly what Martin is in dire need of at Ibrox, given what the existing left-wing options produced in the division last season.

Rangers’ left-wing options

24/25 Premiership

Appearances

Goals

Hamza Igamane

29

11

Ianis Hagi

23

4

Tom Lawrence

15

4

Nedim Bajrami

25

2

Rabbi Matondo

6

2

Oscar Cortes

8

0

Scott Wright

2

0

Stats via WhoScored

As you can see in the table above, Hamza Igamane, who scored nine of his goals as a striker, was the only left-wing option for the Gers who managed more than four goals.

This suggests that Gassama has the potential to be the player that Rangers need if he can translate his efficient goalscoring form on the left wing for Sheffield Wednesday in the Championship over to the Premiership next season.

However, the French dynamo may not be the only winger who arrives at Ibrox in the coming weeks, as Rangers are reportedly interested in another wide attacker.

Rangers make contact to sign new winger

According to Africa Foot, Rangers are interested in a deal to sign free agent winger Grady Diangana, who left West Bromwich Albion at the start of the month.

The report claims that the Scottish giants have already made contact with his camp, as they pursue a move to bring him to Ibrox to bolster their options on the flanks.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

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It adds that there is plenty of interest from elsewhere, though, as Wolverhampton Wanderers, Valencia and Al Ettifaq are all also interested in signing the former West Ham United forward.

Africa Foot reveals that Diangana is intrigued by the prospect of a move to Scotland this summer and is carefully considering a switch to Ibrox to link up with Martin, who is very keen on signing a player of his profile.

It now remains to be seen what final decision the 27-year-old dynamo is going to make, with Rangers hoping that he will decide that a move to Glasgow is the best next step for him in his career.

What Grady Diangana could bring to Rangers

Diangana would be an interesting addition to the Rangers squad this summer because he did not deliver outstanding quality on the pitch for the Baggies in the 2024/25 campaign.

However, he is an incredibly versatile attacking option who can play on the left, on the right, or through the middle as an attacking midfielder, having started at least 37 games in each position in his career to date.

This means that Martin could utilise him in a plethora of roles next season, whether that’s on the wing or as an attacking midfield, which would make him a valuable depth option for the Scottish boss to call upon when needed.

Gassama, given his potential and impressive goalscoring output in the 2024/25 campaign, could come in as the first-choice option on the left flank, with Diangana providing an experienced alternative who can support the Frenchman’s developement whilst also being a quality back-up.

Grady Diangana (Championship)

23/24

24/25

Appearances

36

34

Starts

29

14

xG

5.44

3.67

Goals

7

4

Big chances created

8

5

Assists

8

3

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the former West Brom star did provide decent quality in the final third in the Championship in the 2023/24 season, but his form fell off last term as his contract was due to expire.

Diangana, who was once hailed as “unplayable” by pundit Michael Brown, joining Rangers for a fresh challenge could motivate him to get back to his best, potentially providing Martin with a winger who can make an impact in the final third as both a scorer and a creator of goals.

At worst, the DR Congo international will be a versatile and experienced player to support Gassama and step in as a starter when needed for the Gers.

At best, Diangana will recapture his best form and be a terrific winger for Rangers who can decide matches with goals and assists on a regular basis, leaving Martin with two brilliant left wing options to pick from next season.

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Posts ByDan Emery Jul 9, 2025

Liverpool aren’t messing about this summer, pulling in high-level signings from every which way. However, this is not so much scattergun spending as the product of calculated, expeditious planning.

Florian Wirtz, for example, was brought in from Bayer Leverkusen for £116m, the British record, after Jeremie Frimpong’s £29.5m release clause was activated. Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez has since finalised his move to Merseyside.

While Wirtz is the cream of the crop, heralded as a “generational talent” by Bundesliga commentator Dan O’Hagan, Liverpool still need a striker, especially as uncertainty around Luis Diaz’s future continues to rumble on.

Why Liverpool need a striker

Arne Slot led Liverpool to the Premier League title last season without a focal frontman. Well, without an in-form central striker, at least. Such were Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez’s woes that Diaz was redefined as a false nine, almost exclusively used on the left wing by Jurgen Klopp.

Liverpool’s Frontline in 24/25 (Prem)

Player

Apps

Goals

Assists

Mohamed Salah

38

29

18

Luis Diaz

36

13

7

Cody Gakpo

35

10

5

Diogo Jota

26

6

4

Darwin Nunez

30

5

3

Federico Chiesa

6

–

1

Data via Transfermarkt

So then, it seems pretty justified that Slot wants a new centre-forward, especially as Nunez is currently in the process of signing for Napoli, a move that’s definitely not done yet.

And with Diaz also facing rumours of a summer exit, FSG are perhaps going to need to dip into the coffers once again. Slot’s Colombian star, who is 28, is frustrated that Liverpool are prepared to run his contract down, expiring in two years, instead of cashing in or discussing a renewal, and would consider leaving as Barcelona and Saudi Arabian suitors circle.

We all know Alexander Isak is the glinting jewel in the eyes of Liverpool’s overlords, but Newcastle United aren’t really willing to part with their star man, pricing him at an exorbitant £200m.

Luckily, Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, knows his stuff and has already earmarked an exciting alternative.

Liverpool eyeing Isak alternative

As per transfer insider Graeme Bailey, Liverpool are interested in signing Benjamin Sesko this summer, having done their due diligence on the RB Leipzig striker.

Newcastle are ready to make Isak the highest-paid player in their history, so it makes sense that Hughes has turned toward Sesko.

The Slovenian star is only 22 but has made waves in the Bundesliga over the past couple of years. It must be said that Arsenal are leading the race, with Sesko valued between £68-85m, but Liverpool may yet shift the odds by tabling an official offer.

Why Liverpool want Benjamin Sesko

Sesko isn’t the only striker on Liverpool’s radar. In fact, Bailey’s above-mentioned report reveals an interest in Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres too, but the 27-year-old Sweden international would be the wrong choice for FSG to make.

Now, Sesko is still loading on the striking scene, but he’s already revealed himself to be a sensation in the making in Germany, hailed as a ball-striking “monster” by analyst Ben Mattinson after scoring 39 goals and adding eight assists across 81 Leipzig appearances.

Athletic, powerful and rangy, Sesko has all the properties to become a superstar on Premier League shores, even dubbed “the new Haaland” by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Benjamin Sesko – Senior Career Goals so Far

Club

Season

Apps

Goals

RB Leipzig

24/25

45

21

RB Leipzig

23/24

42

18

RB Salzburg

22/23

41

18

RB Salzburg

20/21

37

11

RB Salzburg

20/21

1

0

FC Liefering

20/21

29

21

FC Liefering

19/20

15

1

Data via Transfermarkt

Manchester City’s goalscoring talisman needs no introduction, and if Liverpool could get their hands on their own version, Slot would move one step closer to defending his Premier League title.

It might seem that Gyokeres would be the better pick for the Merseysiders; he’s scored 97 goals across 102 matches for Sporting, after all.

However, this isn’t so. Liverpool, let’s not forget, signed Nunez after his 34-goal campaign with Portuguese giants Benfica in 2021/22, and for a towering £64m fee (the full £85m payment has not been reached).

Nunez’s prolific streak over on Iberian territory hasn’t translated to life in the Premier League, where life is tougher, the opponents stronger, the pace faster. A maverick though he is, Nunez has struggled to bring it all together, not just profligate but prone to drifting through games.

The 6 foot 4 Sesko might not be the finished article, but he’s definitely got more about him from an athletic standpoint, ranked among the top 11% of centre-forwards across Europe last season for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref.

Of course, to discredit Gyokeres’ qualities simply because he walks the same ground as Nunez before him would make a feeble argument, but he’s 27 and has yet to prove himself in one of Europe’s big five leagues, whereas Sesko has demonstrated his qualities in Germany, scoring incredible strikes such as this one against Bayern Munich.

Furthermore, Sesko only failed to convert ten big chances in the Bundesliga last term, as per Sofascore, scoring 13 times. This illustrates a natural-born goalscoring prowess, of course, but also composure and the level-headedness required to hit the ground running in the Premier League. Gyokeres, for comparison, missed 23 big chances over in Portugal.

With a Haaland-esque style of play and several years of invaluable experience cutting his teeth in Germany’s top flight, Sesko is ready to make the leap over to England and start expanding his potential on the European stage.

While Sesko is raw, an uncut gem, he’s a jewel all the same, and one who would arrive at an Anfield side both fronted by an elite coach in Slot and thick with incredible creative players such as Wirtz and Mohamed Salah.

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Posts ByAngus Sinclair Jun 27, 2025

Since the turn of the century, Chelsea rank first across Europe for transfer expenditure, spending a rather grotesque figure of €3.86bn (£3.2bn).

Having sold players to recoup around €1.96bn (£1.65bn) during the same period, the Blues have a total net spend of €-1,899.67m since 2000.

While the club may have won two Champions League titles and five Premier League crowns during that period, plus winning a plethora of other domestic and European trophies, spending has gone to a new level since Todd Boehly took control.

The Stamford Bridge side did make plenty of exciting signings during the first 12 years of the century. Players such as Didier Drogba, Claude Makelele and Ricardo Carvalho all played key roles under José Mourinho as the Blues emerged as a major force.

Eden Hazard, Thibaut Courtois and Oscar saw Chelsea enjoy a successful second act between 2012 and 2017, winning another two Premier League titles and a Europa League crown.

One signing was perhaps lauded more than the rest, especially given how much potential he had upon moving to Stamford Bridge.

Juan Mata looked ready to explode into life in the Premier League upon moving to England. Unfortunately, his time in London was short-lived, but his cult status hasn’t left him.

Juan Mata’s Chelsea statistics

Mata had enjoyed an excellent start to his career. After making his debut for Valencia, the Spaniard accrued over 150 competitive appearances for the La Liga side, scoring 46 goals and grabbing 52 assists in just four seasons.

This form saw him secure a place in the 2010 World Cup squad. He may have only played 20 minutes for Spain during the tournament, but he got his hands on the trophy.

Chelsea made their move a year later, signing the playmaker for a fee in the region of £23.5m, which was certainly a bargain.

Juan Mata’s Chelsea statistics
Season	Games	Goals	Assists
2013/14	17	1	3
2012/13	64	20	30
2011/12	54	12	20
Via Transfermarkt

During his first season with the club, he played 54 games and registered 32 goal contributions, helping the Blues win the FA Cup and Champions League.

Remarkably, 60 goal involvements were recorded in the season after as Mata emerged as a key attacking threat for the London side. They didn’t win anything, but with Mourinho announced as the new manager in the summer of 2013, hopes were high of further glory.

It was clear he wasn’t going to fit into his tactical system, resulting in Mata making just 11 Premier League starts for the Blues during the first half of the season.

In January, Manchester United paid £37.1m to bring him to the North East, but he left Chelsea as a cult icon for his impressive displays.

With the transfer window set to open in just a few weeks, could Chelsea be about to raid Valencia once again for a talented young player with the world at his feet?

Indeed, a move for Cristhian Mosquera this summer could see him become Mata 2.0.

Chelsea make their move for La Liga sensation

While the club are in urgent need of a new striker or two heading into the transfer market, Enzo Maresca is also on the lookout for a new defender.

According to Caught Offside, Chelsea are keen to step up their interest in Mosquera, who has enjoyed a breakthrough season for the Spanish side.

As per the report, the Blues could be set to initiate talks with the centre-back soon in a bid to secure his signature. Due to the fact that his contract expires next summer, Valencia are only demanding a fee of around €25m (£21m), which is certainly feasible for Maresca.

They face stiff competition from Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen and RB Leipzig. While Atletico Madrid are also keen. Three of these clubs will take part in the Champions League next term, meaning Chelsea must secure their place in the competition to stand a chance of landing the youngster.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Although Maresca has plenty of centre-backs at his disposal, Mosquera could soon become a first-choice option for the Italian.

Why Chelsea must sign Cristhian Mosquera

The 20-year-old has started all but one of Valencia’s league matches this season, although the club have underperformed as a whole, looking like they might finish in the bottom half of the table.

Throughout the campaign, the Spaniard exuded the qualities of someone ten years older. Indeed, he has won an impressive 69% of his total ground duels per game in the top flight, along with making 3.4 clearances, 1.4 tackles and losing possession only 0.3 times per match.

These solid displays at the heart of Valencia’s backline have bolstered his reputation, being praised heavily in the process.

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig stated that Mosquera is a “magnificent CB in the making” earlier this year. He also stated that the youngster was “one of the most talented U-21 CBs in Europe” following an excellent performance against Real Madrid in April.

When compared to his positional peers in La Liga this season, Mosquera currently ranks in the top 4% for ball recoveries (5.16) per 90, along with ranking in the top 14% for pass completion percentage (90.8%) and in the top 18% for percentage of dribbles tackled (76.3%) for Valencia.

He is certainly still raw and has plenty of development to do over the next few years, but these statistics prove he can mix it with the very best in Spain, no doubt about that.

For a fee of just £21m, Maresca won’t find better value out there all summer. Mosquera has proven throughout the 2024/25 campaign that he is a reliable centre-back,k and his signing fits into the club’s policy of bringing younger talent to London.

Mata enjoyed a wonderful two-and-a-half-year spell with Chelsea after sealing a move from Valencia. Given his growing reputation and talent, Mosquera could certainly go on to enjoy a similar sort of impact at Stamford Bridge should he make the move this summer.

Maresca must act swiftly to secure his signature, especially with plenty of other suitors swirling around the player.

Chelsea really looking at signing £25m "new name" who agreed to join Arsenal

He’s shook hands on personal terms with the Gunners last year.

By
Emilio Galantini

May 23, 2025

It’s safe to say this has been a perplexing season for Arsenal, who are now very likely to finish second having secured Champions League football for next season.

It came in the 37th gameweek as Mikel Arteta’s men defeated Newcastle 1-0. It was a game that rather typified the Gunners’ recent form, truth be told. Arsenal didn’t create a huge number of openings and left themselves exposed at the back.

This time, they had Man of the Match David Raya to thank for their victory with the Spaniard making a number of high-class saves in the opening 45 minutes. While Arsenal don’t need a goalkeeper, their end-of-season form has showcased where they need to strengthen.

Fortunately, writing before the game in the programme, Josh Kroenke spoke of the club’s summer plans and indicated that they will spend, sparking excitement for what’s to come.

So, speaking of transfers, who is likely to come through the door?

Arsenal ramping up summer transfer plans

While the biggest box to tick this summer is that of a shiny new centre forward, the Gunners must also hone in on a new winger after inconsistent campaigns for both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.

Martinelli has found form in the back end of the campaign but has only scored on eight occasions in the Premier League. As for Trossard, he’s netted the same number in top-flight action.

As a result, we’ve seen continued links to Spanish winger Nico Williams and a suggestion that Arsenal are fans of Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon.

Despite their need for a new winger on the left, they could actually bolster the right-hand side too. That’s because, according to new reports, they are interested in signing Brentford talisman Bryan Mbeumo.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

That’s the word of club insider Teamnewsandtix, who wrote in his latest Patreon entry: “After the data team identified him last summer, Arsenal are targeting Bryan Mbeumo again. I’m told talks are progressing, but they aren’t the only team in for him.”

The Cameroon international has been nothing short of a sensation this summer and is also attracting the interest of Manchester United, according to other reports.

The forward is allegedly valued at around £51m by the Bees.

Where Mbeumo would fit into Arteta's Arsenal team

With Bukayo Saka very much still the leading light in Arteta’s lineup, fitting Mbeumo into the equation may be hard.

Described as a “Mini Salah” by talkSPORT pundit Jason Cundy, the Brentford star has made a living out of cutting inside from the right and bamboozling defenders on his stronger left foot. As the compliment suggests, he’s like Salah and, as a matter of fact, he’s very much like Saka in that regard.

While Arsenal do need to find someone who’s capable of giving the England international a break every now and then, spending £51m on a right winger when they are arguably more in need of a left forward perhaps doesn’t make too much sense.

Well, fortunately, Mbeumo is a versatile player, most notably playing six times as a centre forward this season, scoring four goals in the process.

Meanwhile, he’s played off the left on nine occasions in his career and he’s also featured behind the main striker as a no.10 or second striker 43 times. While that may well take away his strongest asset, cutting inside from the right, he certainly has the ability to make a difference in more central areas.

So, how does he compare with Saka?

Goals

0.51

0.19

Assists

0.32

0.53

Shots

2.09

3.39

Key passes

1.84

2.96

Progressive passes

3.71

3.54

Shot-creating actions

3.82

5.93

Successful take-ons

1.38

2.12

Progressive carries

3.39

4.97

Mbeumo has been in remarkable form this season and ranks fifth in the race for the Premier League Golden Boot, having bagged 19 goals. In all competitions, he’s also produced nine assists for his troubles.

When analysing their respective numbers, it’s clear the Brentford star is a more clinical player in front of goal. Despite taking fewer shots per 90 minutes, he’s scoring more regularly than Saka.

However, this would certainly be to the advantage of Arteta’s team. While Mbeumo may well be the better goalscorer, Saka is one of the most creative wingers in the world and is streets ahead in metrics like key passes and shot-creating actions.

Yes, there would likely be confusion about Arsenal signing a natural right winger, but supporters shouldn’t turn their noses up at more goals. This term, the league’s second-placed side have scored 67 goals in the top-flight, 16 fewer than Liverpool.

On that basis, it’s not a surprise to see that the Reds run away with proceedings.

Their own Isak: The "best finisher in the world" wants to sign for Arsenal

Arsenal may not sign Alexander Isak this summer, but they could still sign their own version.

ByMatt Dawson May 19, 2025

Leeds United have made an opening enquiry to sign a new Premier League player, according to a fresh transfer report.

Leeds latest as Farke drops Meslier for Darlow

The Whites are still pushing for Championship promotion under Daniel Farke, with Leeds in a current battle with Sheffield United and Burnley.

It looked like it could be a straightforward promotion after wins over the Blades and Sunderland back in February, however, Leeds have taken just six points from a possible 15 since.

Goalkeeper Illan Meslier was once again at fault last time out in a draw with Swansea City, and Farke has now taken the decision to drop Meslier for Karl Darlow. Talking at a recent press conference, Farke said: “I think I’m a big believer to have clarity on GK position. I’ve taken the decision – Karl Darlow will play on Saturday. Karl and Illan are aware.

“I think in general with a goalkeeper, it’s important you don’t change game to game. Especially with a promising GK like Illan. He took part in securing promotion a few seasons ago. He’s still young for a GK. It’s professional football and you have to deliver and handle the pressure. In the last weeks we felt he could have done a bit better.

“I’m in the position where I have to make a decision and protect him a bit. The spotlight is on him and the weight of the world is on him. That was my feeling this week. I have a really reliable option with Karl Darlow. A top class character. I see him every day in training – absolutely professional and loyal. He played two solid performances for Wales. he’s in a good rhythm. I’m convinced it’s the right decision.”

Should Leeds return to the top flight after a two-year absence, Leeds and the 49ers Enterprises could look to splash the cash to remain in the division.

Meslier replacement: Leeds now eyeing move for "world-class" £14m goalkeeper

The Whites are looking at options to replace Meslier, who has made a number of mistakes this season.

ByDominic Lund Apr 4, 2025

It has proven a tough task for the six promoted sides since 2023, however, Leeds are turning to experience to potentially help Farke.

Leeds make enquiry to sign Farke target Soucek from West Ham

According to Claret & Hugh, Leeds have made an opening approach over a deal to sign Tomas Soucek from West Ham United.

It is claimed that ‘Farke has identified West Ham midfielder Soucek as a player who can guarantee the Whites some top-flight goals’ and that any deal would require Leeds being promoted.

The report also adds that Leeds are ‘ready to offer him at least £30,000 per week more than his current wage’, which currently stands at £90,000 per week.

The 6 ft 4 midfielder, who can play in holding, central or attacking roles, could therefore earn £120,000 per week at Elland Road, however, he is currently settled at the London Stadium, where his deal runs until 2027.

Games

238

Goals

39

Assists

13

Yellow cards

33

Red cards

1

It appears as if Farke is personally keen on the Czech Republic international, and any deal would see the midfielder offer a physical presence as well as plenty of Premier League experience.

The globetrotter has a remarkable record with KKR, TKR and against Rohit Sharma

Namooh Shah04-Dec-2025Best economy and 100-plus wickets for two teamsAcross 568 T20 matches, Narine has maintained an economy rate of 6.16, the best among 117 bowlers with a minimum of 200 wickets in the format.Narine is one of only five bowlers in T20 history to take 100 or more wickets for two teams alongside Dwayne Bravo, Lasith Malinga, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Shadab Khan.One-franchise IPL career with KKRNarine is one of three players to play for a single IPL franchise alongside Virat Kohli and Kieron Pollard (minimum 150 matches). He has played all his IPL cricket for Kolkata Knight Riders, featuring in 189 matches, joint-most by an overseas player in the league with Pollard.With 192 wickets, he is the leading overseas wicket-taker in IPL history. Overall, 210 of his 600 T20 wickets have come for KKR, the most by any player for a single franchise, ahead of Lasith Malinga (195 for Mumbai Indians).ESPNcricinfo LtdThe ruler of Punjab KingsNarine’s only T20 five-wicket haul came in the 2012 IPL against Kings XI Punjab [now Punjab Kings], making him the first overseas spinner in IPL history to take a five-for. Since then, only Adam Zampa (2017) and Wanindu Hasaranga (2022) have achieved the feat as overseas spinners.In 2013, Narine also took his only T20 hat-trick, again against Punjab Kings, against whom he has the most dismissals in the format (36).Dominance against Rohit Sharma and at Eden GardensNarine has dismissed Rohit Sharma ten times in T20 cricket, the joint-most dismissals of a batter by a bowler, alongside Dwayne Bravo, who has dismissed Pollard ten times.Narine also has 72 wickets at Eden Gardens, the most by any bowler in Kolkata in T20s. His next best venue is the Shere Bangla Stadium, Mirpur, where he has 38 wickets.CPL’s leading wicket-takerNarine is currently the leading wicket-taker in the Caribbean Premier League, with 133 wickets, ahead of Imran Tahir (130). Out of the 133 wickets, 102 have come for Trinbago Knight Riders, making him one of the only three bowlers to take 100-plus wickets for a team in CPL.

With three of the four playoffs spots decided, the season is set for an explosive final leg

Deivarayan Muthu03-Jul-20234:50

TNPL highlights – Kovai vs Madurai

Shahrukh puts Kovai in the first qualifier

Fastest fifty in TNPL 2023: check. Wickets with the ball: check. Plucking a catch out of thin air with one hand: check. M Shahrukh Khan contributed handsomely in all three departments to help Lyca Kovai Kings thump Madurai Panthers by 44 runs in Tirunelveli on Sunday and seal their spot in the first qualifier.Related

• Jhathavedh's journey from Hong Kong to TN(PL), via UK and Hyderabad

• Ashwin reviews the review in bizarre incident in TNPL 2023

• Week 1: Sai Sudharsan's helicopter, Washington's low-key return

• Week 2: Natarajan's emotional homecoming

With B Sai Sudharsan leaving Kovai and linking up with the South Zone side for the Duleep Trophy, captain Shahrukh promoted himself to No.5 and flayed a 20-ball half-century. It included a sequence of 4,4,4,6 against legspinner M Ashwin. Shahrukh isn’t usually comfortable starting against wristspin, but on Sunday he started in fifth gear and stayed there.Shahrukh is also the joint-highest wicket-taker this season, with 13 strikes in seven innings at an average of 10.46 and economy rate of 6.80. Plus, his strike rate of 200 is also the best among batters who have faced at least 25 balls this TNPL.

No Ashwin? No problem for Dindigul

R Ashwin has left Dindigul Dragons for India’s tour of the Caribbean, but under B Indrajith, Dindigul continue to challenge Kovai for the title. Since Ashwin’s departure, Dindigul have notched up back-to-back victories, set up by back-to-back half-centuries from opening batter Shivam Singh.All told, Shivam, who was part of the Punjab Kings side in IPL 2023, has struck fifties in his last three innings in the TNPL. Shivam is particularly prolific on the off side and can even play the reverse-sweep. Suboth Bhati, the former Delhi allrounder, has fronted up to bowl the tough overs in the powerplay and death. Mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy has shared the load with Bhati, returning to his best after taking some tap from Sai Sudharsan last week. Left-arm fingerspinner Aushik Srinivas has belatedly joined the side as Ashwin’s replacement.Washington Sundar nails a slog-sweep against Chepauk Super Gillies•TNPL

Washington hits form before Duleep Trophy

Washington Sundar had managed just three wickets in seven matches in IPL 2023 before being sidelined from the tournament with a hamstring injury. Washington has had a fairly rusty start to TNPL 2023 and has picked up just one wicket in six games, but he has found some form with the bat ahead of joining South Zone for the Duleep Trophy.Against Chepauk, Washington came in when Madurai were 46 for 5. He watched his team slump further to 50 for 6 and then 79 for 7, but he walloped an unbeaten 56 off 30 balls to drag Madurai to 141 for 7, which proved enough to keep them in the hunt for the playoffs. Fast bowler Ajay Krishna, who has had a stint with Chennai Super Kings as a net bowler, claimed 4 for 18 in three overs to back up Washington’s punchy batting effort.Chepauk’s captain N Jagadeesan has also been released from the TNPL to turn out for South Zone in the Duleep Trophy as a potential replacement for KS Bharat, who has joined the India side for the Caribbean tour. Chepauk’s Pradosh Ranjan Paul will also miss the final leg of the TNPL for the Duleep Trophy.Gurjapneet Singh has had a stint with CSK as a net bowler•TNPL/TNCA

Emerging Player: Gurjapneet Singh

Gurjapneet Singh is a bit of a rare package in Tamil Nadu. He’s a tall left-arm seamer, who can pound the deck and bowl in the high 130s [kph]. He also has a deceptive back-of-the-hand slower variation and the yorker in his repertoire. After impressing R Ashwin at Dindigul during his first TNPL season in 2021, Gurjapneet was picked as a net bowler by CSK, but a back injury then ruled him out of TNPL 2022.Madurai snapped up Gurjapneet at the TNPL 2023 auction, and he has repaid their faith with 11 wickets in six games at an average of 11.72. His economy rate of 5.95 is the best among seamers who have bowled at least 15 overs this season.In his most recent game on a placid pitch in Tirunelveli, where Kovai piled up 208 for 5, Gurjapneet came away with 2 for 30 in his four overs, limiting the damage at the death.

A look at the India Women captain’s batting numbers in a storied career

Sampath Bandarupalli03-Jul-20211 Mithali Raj became the leading run-getter in women’s international cricket, going past Charlotte Edwards’ tally of 10,273 runs. Raj and Edwards are the only players to scale the 10,000-run mark in women’s international cricket.7304 Runs aggregated by Raj in ODI cricket. No other player has managed to breach the 6,000-run milestone in women’s ODIs. Raj is the only player with a batting average over 50 among the top ten run-getters in the format.ESPNcricinfo Ltd6015 Runs scored by Raj in 179 matches as captain in women’s international cricket. Only Edwards, with 6,728 runs in 220 games, has scored more than Raj when leading the team. She also went past Belinda Clark’s 83 wins as captain in Women’s ODIs.87 Scores of fifty-plus runs by Raj, including eight centuries, the most by any player in women’s international cricket. She has 54 scores of fifty-plus as captain (5 hundreds, 49 fifties), also the most for any player while being in charge.ESPNcricinfo Ltd2924 Raj’s runs against England, the most by any player against an opponent in women’s international cricket. She has scored these runs across 81 innings, with 25 fifties and a century.3613 Runs scored by Raj in international matches played in India. Only Edwards, with 4,490 runs in England, has scored more runs at home in women’s international cricket than Raj.214 Raj’s highest score, against England in 2002 during the Test match at Taunton. It is the only double century by an Indian woman, and the fourth-highest individual score in women’s international cricket.935 Runs scored by Raj in international cricket in 2018, the most she has scored in any calendar year. The majority of those came in T20Is, as she scored 575 runs in 19 innings with seven fifties. She also made 360 runs in 11 ODIs.700 Runs by Raj at the County Ground in Taunton, the most by her at any venue across the three formats in international cricket. Raj has scored 301 runs in two Tests, including her double century, and 311 runs in six ODIs with four fifties.16 years 205 days Raj’s age at the time of her debut, during an ODI against Ireland in 1999. She scored an unbeaten 114 in that game, earning her the title of the youngest centurion in international cricket, among men or women.