It’s been a hugely busy summer for Arsenal so far this year.

On top of already playing some intense pre-season games against top opposition like Newcastle United, AC Milan and those lot from up the road, they’ve been making plenty of moves in the transfer market.

As things stand, Andrea Berta has made six permanent additions to the first team in a bid to finally help Mikel Arteta’s side get over the line in the Premier League and Champions League next season.

However, they are not done there, as they continue to be linked to several brilliant stars like Rodrygo and a new name, someone who has won comparisons to the Brazilian and the Gunners’ own starboy, Bukayo Saka.

Arsenal target Rodrygo & Saka hybrid

Of the six additions Arsenal have made thus far, it wouldn’t be much of a hot take to suggest that Viktor Gyokeres is the most exciting, as the team have needed a clinical number nine for some time now and the Swede racked up a tally of 54 goals and 13 assists in 52 games for Sporting CP last season.

Transfer Focus

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

However, while it is starting to look less and less likely now, the Gunners do continue to be linked with Rodrygo, who, thanks to his incredible ability, experience and trophy cabinet, could end up taking that spot as the most exciting signing the North Londoners make this summer.

Yet, there are still other names in the mix, as it now appears that the club are looking at another star from La Liga, someone who could be fairly described as a hybrid between the Real Madrid star and the incredible Saka.

At least that is according to a recent report from Sebastien Vidal, who claims that Arsenal are one of several teams showing genuine interest in Fermin Lopez.

He actually goes further than that, revealing that alongside Chelsea, the Gunners have already made contact with Barcelona, although it looks like Manchester United are currently leading the race.

According to Vidal, the Red Devils are preparing an offer of around £61m for the 22-year-old, and while Barça do not want to sell, financial issues could force their hand if such an offer arrives, which in turn will let Berta and Co know how much they’d need to offer.

It could be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given Lopez’s immense ability and potential, it’s one worth fighting for, especially as he’s been compared to both Rodrygo and Saka.

How Lopez compares to Rodrygo & Saka

In this instance, the primary comparisons to Rodrygo and Saka stem from FBref, which analysed players in similar positions in the Champions League last season and concluded that the Real Madrid star was the most similar attacking midfielder or winger to Lopez, and the Arsenal ace was the fourth most similar.

Non-Penalty G+As

0.79

0.72

Passing Accuracy

83.5%

85.1%

Passes into the Final Third

2.60

2.47

Shot-Creating Actions

3.40

3.70

Tackles Won

1.00

1.13

Clearances

0.80

0.72

Attempted Take-Ons

3.20

3.20

You can gain a better understanding of how these comparisons were made by examining the underlying numbers in which the Frenchman ranked closely to the two internationals. In the Brazilian’s case, these metrics included non-penalty goals plus assists, passing accuracy, shot-creating actions, attempted take-ons, and more, all per 90.

In the case of the Englishman, the underlying numbers included metrics such as non-penalty expected and actual goals plus assists, key passes, shots on target, tackles in the defensive and middle thirds, and more, all per 90.

Non-Penalty G+As

0.79

0.83

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.79

0.73

Shots on Target

1.59

1.42

Key Passes

1.20

1.19

Tackles in the Defensive Third

0.60

0.60

Tackles in the Middle Third

0.60

0.60

These numbers are particularly encouraging as they show that not only could the “amazing” ace, as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, match up to the two wingers when it comes to their attacking numbers, but that he’s also capable and willing to do some of the less glamorous defensive work.

With that said, while the comparisons to the Arsenal and Madrid stars are certainly a positive sign, they aren’t the only reason Arteta and Co should look to sign the young Spaniard.

For example, one of his significant strengths is his positional versatility, having played in central and attacking midfield, as well as out on both wings since breaking through at Barcelona.

If there is one thing we know about Arteta, it’s that he prefers players who can offer him tactical versatility.

Finally, despite being young, the El Campillo-born gem has already won a number of trophies with the Blaugrana, including La Liga last season, and so he’d bring some much-needed know-how to the North Londoners.

Ultimately, it might not be a cheap transfer to get over the line, but Arsenal should do what they can to sign Lopez this summer, as he’s got the ability and potential to be something special, and the comparisons to Saka and Rodrygo can only be a good thing.

This time last summer, Manchester United fans were understandably excited after they clinched the signing of highly-rated striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna.

The Dutchman joined the Red Devils in a £34m transfer, hoping to transform the club’s fortunes within the final third and subsequently take the club to the next level.

However, the club’s ambitions for a new talisman this window highlight the lack of impact the 24-year-old has achieved during his first year at Old Trafford.

He only managed seven goals in his 49 outings, but only three of his efforts came in the Premier League, ultimately failing to match the excitement generated by his arrival.

Numerous players have been linked throughout the ongoing window, which has seen Ruben Amorim personally making moves to land a new forward ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

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

Ollie Watkins has been a name constantly mentioned with a summer switch to Old Trafford, but a move may be on the back burner, with other options currently being pursued.

The England international still remains as an option, but remains lower down the list, unsurprisingly so given his current £60m asking price.

Another name has subsequently been thrown into the mix, with Stuttgart talisman Nick Woltemade emerging as a potential option, according to The Sun’s latest update.

They claim that the Red Devils are currently facing a battle for the 23-year-old, who scored 17 goals across all competitions for the German outfit last summer.

The article also states that Newcastle United are also considering a move for the 6 foot 6 forward, who is valued at £40m, after his proposed transfer to Bayern Munich hit a stumbling block.

Why United’s latest target would be another Zirkzee

Benjamin Sesko is another player who’s been firmly in United’s sights this window, leading to reports claiming that the RB Leipzig striker is currently the hierarchy’s main target.

Such interest in his services is understandable given his record in the Bundesliga, with the youngster managing to score the most goals of any U21 striker in Europe last season.

His tally of 21 goals would undoubtedly hand Amorim the clinical option he’s been lacking since his appointment, but they may face an uphill battle for his signature.

Newcastle are another side constantly matching the Red Devils in the race for his signature, with both clubs trying to work out a deal for the forward who’s valued at around £78m.

Given the current asking price, other options may be pushed back up their current shortlist, leading to a potential deal for Woltemade, who is available at nearly half the price.

Interestingly, he possesses a very similar skill set to that of current first-team member Zirkzee. The pair are both towering assets at 6 foot 6 and 6 foot 4, respectively, while they are also very skilful, something which may come as a surprise given their towering frame.

Indeed, Zirkzee’s former Bologna boss Thiago Motta has previously likened him to Ronaldinho due to his prowess on the ball, while Woltemade has been compared to both Lionel Messi and Jamal Musiala for his dribbling ability.

The 23-year-old can also operate as a striker or in a slightly deeper role, whilst also having experience in Germany’s top division, just as the Dutchman possesses, given his previous spell at Bayern Munich.

However, there’s no denying that Sesko will remain the fanbase’s number one choice, but Woltemade would be just as exciting an addition, offering a cheaper alternative, but a just as impactful option based on the stats they produced last campaign.

The Stuttgart ace, who’s been labelled “unstoppable” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, posted a higher goal per shot on target rate, whilst achieving a better goal and assist per 90 rate – undoubtedly offering more of a clinical edge to the United side.

How Woltemade & Sesko compare in the Bundesliga (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Woltemade

Sesko

Games played

28

33

Goals & assists

14

18

Goals & assists per 90

0.78

0.68

Shot-on-target accuracy

50%

43%

Goals per shot on target

0.4

0.3

Pass accuracy

71%

67%

Key passes made

2.1

0.7

Passes into the opposition box

1.3

0.3

Take-ons completed

1.7

1.4

Carries into the opposition box

1.2

0.5

Aerials won

2.7

2.6

Stats via FBref

He also completed more key passes per 90, more of which made their way into the opposition’s penalty area, subsequently handing Amorim’s side another creative option in their hunt for added success.

Woltemade’s talents are further highlighted in his higher tally of take-ons completed, whilst winning more aerial battles per 90, which would make him the perfect all-round outlet in the final third.

Given the interest from elsewhere, Amorim’s side will have to act quickly to avoid missing out on the talented youngster’s signature – especially to a divisional rival.

Despite the huge interest in Sesko, the hierarchy desperately need to put such a move on the back burner and prioritise a summer deal for the U21 Euro top scorer.

Related Bad news for Onana: Man Utd make contact for "incredible" star after Sesko

Manchester United are making huge moves in the transfer market this summer.

Posts ByEthan Lamb Jul 31, 2025

Manchester United’s forward line has had somewhat of an overhaul during the summer transfer window, unsurprisingly so given their lack of goals in 2024/25.

The Red Devils only managed a tally of 44 goals in the Premier League, an average of 1.15 goals per 90 – a tally no way near good enough for a side of their stature.

Ruben Amorim has taken measures to improve such a situation, securing the signatures of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha – with the pair setting the hierarchy back over £130m.

The pair netted 35 top-flight goals between them last season, potentially forming a deadly partnership with soon-to-be new addition Benjamin Sesko, who has agreed a £74m deal with the club in recent days.

There’s no denying that the trio could cause many sides endless troubles throughout 2025/26, with other areas of the pitch needing similar investment between now and the end of the window.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

Carlos Baleba has emerged as a shock option for United in the midfield department, with the Brighton star’s agents in talks with the Red Devils over a move to Old Trafford.

The 21-year-old could well be out of the club’s price range this summer, with Fabian Hurzeler’s side slapping a £100m price tag on his head to fend off any interest in his services.

However, the middle of the park isn’t the only area which could also be strengthened, with United making a move to land Fiorentina centre-back Pietro Comuzzo, according to Firenzeviola.

They claim that Amorim’s side have been spotted scouting the 20-year-old during pre-season, with the club able to get a closer look at the talent in the clash against the Italian outfit this weekend.

The report also states that Sunderland and Bournemouth have also been keeping a close eye on his progress, but any deal could cost any interested party a fee in the region of €40m (£35m).

Why United’s £35m target could be their next Yoro

Leny Yoro was a huge addition to the United squad last summer, joining the club in a staggering £59m in a move to bolster the side in the immediate and long-term future.

The Frenchman had to bide his time during the early stages of the 2024/25 season, but after Amorim’s arrival, he cemented his place in the side and demonstrated signs of being a great buy from INEOS.

He managed to register a total of 33 appearances across all competitions, scoring his first goal against Lyon in the Europa League – helping the side secure their place in the final.

Yoro also ended his debut year at Old Trafford with a tally of 1.7 aerials won per 90, along with a 93% pass completion rate – showcasing his superb ability to be a ball-playing option in the club’s backline.

However, a move for current target Comuzzo could see them land another young, talented defender, with the Italian producing numerous top-tier stats despite his tender age of just 20 years.

When comparing his stats to those of Yoro from the 2024/25 campaign, the Italian managed to outperform him in numerous key areas, showcasing how he can follow in the teenager’s footsteps at Old Trafford.

Comuzzo, who’s been labelled “incredible” by former boss Raffaele Palladino, made more key passes per 90 last season, showcasing his excellent ability to pick out a teammate in possession.

Games played

33

21

Minutes played

2200

1165

Key passes made

0.4

0.1

Tackles won

0.9

0.8

Blocks made

1.4

0.3

Clearances made

4.6

3.3

% of tackles won

79%

68%

Aerials won

2.6

1.2

Aerial success rate

59%

50%

He also managed to win more of the tackles he entered last season, whilst making more blocks and clearances per 90, handing Amorim the added defensive talent he needs ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

The 20-year-old’s dominance is further reflected in his tally of aerials won per 90, potentially offering the side an added threat at both ends of the pitch – something which has been greatly lacking in recent months.

Whilst competition for his signature is fierce, the club are building an exciting project which any young player may prove to be tempted by in the near future.

£35m for a player of his calibre could prove to be excellent business, potentially seeing Comuzzo strike an excellent partnership with fellow youngster Yoro in the years ahead.

Perfect for Bruno: Man Utd leading the race to sign "phenomenal" £100m gem

Manchester United could be about to land another big-money talent for Ruben Amorim.

ByEthan Lamb Aug 7, 2025

Chelsea are expected to remain busy on transfers this summer after clinching the Club World Cup in New Jersey, with the Blues receiving an estimated £87.5 million worth of prize money as a result of their success in the tournament.

£22m player very keen to join Chelsea, talks once held, he's a top target

The west Londoners could still make more signings.

By
Emilio Galantini

Jul 17, 2025

Their statement 3-0 win over European champions PSG at the MetLife Stadium last Sunday, rounding off six wins from seven CWC matches across the pond, effectively paid for both Liam Delap and Jamie Gittens – who cost Chelsea a total of £85 million to sign earlier this window.

This, combined with the exits of Kepa Arrizabalaga, Basir Humphreys, Noni Madueke, Marcus Bettinelli and Djordje Petrovic, who left for an estimated £96 million, means Chelsea are actually making a profit so far this summer.

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

That isn’t even including the undisclosed fee they received for Mathis Amougou, who joined sister club Strasbourg in a permanent deal just months after arriving from Ligue 1 side St Etienne.

Chelsea do have more money to spend whilst comfortably keeping in line with PSR, even if they’re under pressure to sell more players by UEFA, or risk not being able to register new signings for their Champions League squad next season (Kaveh Solhekol).

According to reliable journalist Simon Phillips, BlueCo are pondering unofficial swap deals as a solution to this – given it would allow them to both reinforce Enzo Maresca’s ranks and balance out the squad.

Nicolas Jackson is one of the men who could be used as a makeweight, given the uncertainty surrounding his future and interest from Premier League sides, including Aston Villa.

Writing via his Substack, Phillips reports that Villa’s interest in Jackson could open the door for Chelsea to ask about their star winger Morgan Rogers.

Morgan Rogers "very open" to joining Chelsea

It’s already been suggested by other sources that they hold a serious interest in the England international, and Phillips suggests that Rogers is “very open” to joining Chelsea, who’d absolutely “love” to sign him.

“Chelsea would love to sign Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa, but they quoted north of £90m for him, so Chelsea haven’t taken it any further yet,” said the journalist.

“If Villa come knocking for Jackson as expected, then Chelsea will mention Rogers. It would have to be a deal that would suit both. Rogers is very open to moving to Chelsea but isn’t actively pursuing a move from Villa, who would also be open to selling Rogers but for the right price.

“They really like Jackson though, so it may well be something that could develop down the line if the deal fits all parties.”

The 22-year-old made a real name for himself at Villa Park last term, bagging 14 goals and 15 assists across 54 appearances in all competitions, including four goals and three assists in the Champions League.

He also fits Chelsea’s usual transfer profile as a young star with bags of potential and plenty of resale value, but Villa will be very wary of green-lighting his exit, considering just how imperative Rogers was for Unai Emery throughout 2024/2025.

The PCB has adopted a more rigid stance on its hosting of the tournament, ruling out a hybrid model format

Osman Samiuddin10-Nov-2024

The BCCI informed the ICC this week of the decision of the Indian government to not allow India to travel to Pakistan.•Getty Images

The PCB is seeking advice from the Pakistan government on how to proceed with its hosting of the Champions Trophy, after the BCCI made clear it will not send India to Pakistan for the tournament in February.The BCCI informed the ICC this week of the decision of the Indian government to not allow India to travel to Pakistan. That decision was formally conveyed by the ICC to the PCB on Friday, who have now gone to their government for next steps.”The ICC emailed the PCB informing them about the inability of the BCCI to send its team to Pakistan,” a PCB spokesperson told ESPNcricinfo. “No reason was given. There is nothing in writing we have received from the BCCI. The PCB has apprised the federal government of the situation.”Related

Hybrid model for Champions Trophy? ICC likely to take call on November 26

Champions Trophy: PCB wants an explanation in writing from India for refusal to travel

PCB 'not prepared to accept' hybrid model for Champions Trophy

Akram urges India to travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025

Champions Trophy without India not an option, say ECB chiefs

The PCB has adopted a more rigid stance on its hosting of the tournament – the first ICC event in the country since 1996 – with the board chairman Mohsin Naqvi ruling out a hybrid host model very clearly on Friday. Such a model, used in the 2023 Asia Cup which Pakistan hosted, would see India play its games outside of Pakistan and all non-India games in Pakistan.Given that Naqvi is Pakistan’s interior minister, that stance can be taken as representative of the government’s in this case. An official familiar with the situation said the Pakistan government will consider directing the PCB to stand firm, reject the hybrid model and insist the entire tournament is held in Pakistan. That would be a directive the PCB would be in no position to ignore in much the way the BCCI is unable to act against its own government’s directive.It leaves the ICC, with 100 days to go to the start of the Champions Trophy, in an especially difficult situation with simmering political issues between its two leading Full Members threatening to spill over – unsurprising given that Naqvi’s BCCI counterpart, Jay Shah, is the son of Naqvi’s counterpart in the Indian government, the home minister Amit Shah. The situation will not become any simpler when Shah takes over as the ICC chair, on December 1.The India-Pakistan rivalry is the marquee match in all global events, and organisers have long made sure they face each other at least once in every tournament since the 2013 Champions Trophy. It is regularly the match that draws the most eyeballs. But indications within this PCB administration are that their government might not allow Pakistan to travel to India for future ICC events – the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup is the next such event. On Friday, Naqvi had warned that “gestures” Pakistan had made in the past might not be repeated: he was referring to Pakistan traveling to India for the men’s ODI World Cup in 2023, right after India had refused to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup.Last month, the ECB chief executive Richard Gould made clear how important India and Pakistan both were to ICC events and the global cricket ecosystem. “If you play the Champions Trophy without India, or Pakistan, the broadcast rights aren’t there, and we need to protect them,” he said, on a visit to Pakistan during England’s Test series in the country.An event in Lahore this week to launch the schedule and start the 100-day countdown has been postponed in light of the developments. Instead, the PCB is expected to push the ICC this week to secure in writing from the BCCI the reason for its decision and on what specific grounds the Indian government is preventing its team from traveling. The ICC has been contacted for comment.As of now, the eight-team event is due to be played between February 19 and March 9, across Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi. Stadiums at all three venues have been undergoing renovation and upgradation to different degrees in order to be ready for the event. Pakistan are the defending champions, having won the event in 2017.

Chelsea certainly appear to be a team who are aiming for a big season in 2025/26.

Enzo Maresca not only led the Blues to a wonderful triumph at the Club World Cup, but he simultaneously managed to bolster his squad in the process.

In came João Pedro and Liam Delap. Elsewhere, Jamie Gittens was signed to bolster Maresca’s wide options, while Brazilian sensation Estevao will link up with the club ahead of the new season.

It is a summer of change at Stamford Bridge, and the victory stateside will only heighten expectations once the Premier League season gets underway in a few weeks.

The $125m that the club won at the tournament this summer will help fund a few of the summer signings, but Maresca will be looking to sell a raft of players to fund more incomings.

João Felix and Christopher Nkunku could be set to leave the club this summer. As to Axel Disasi, Renato Veiga and Raheem Sterling in the coming weeks.

These players could fetch decent fees, which, in turn, will allow the club to further bolster key positions.

Noni Madueke has also been sold to Arsenal, while Nicolas Jackson is being heavily linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge. These two might be the biggest losses.

Chelsea looking to sell more players

Given the imminent arrival of Estevao at Stamford Bridge, plus the presence of Pedro Neto, it was evident that Madueke’s chances of regular game time on the right flank would be limited next term.

When Arsenal began to show serious interest, it was only a matter of when and not if the Gunners would seal the deal.

His sale could earn Chelsea around £50m, which is a remarkable sum for a player who scored seven Premier League goals for the Blues last term.

Jackson has been subject to interest from a host of clubs since the summer transfer window opened a few weeks ago.

Recently, however, it is Manchester United who are keen on securing a move for the Senegal international.

According to reports, United have already held talks with Jackson’s representatives regarding a potential move to Old Trafford.

With Pedro and Delap looking like they will share the centre-forward workload this season, is there any room for Jackson?

Last term, he made just 37 appearances in all competitions, scoring only 13 goals in the process for the club.

His form tailed off towards the end of the season after a decent start, going on to find the back of the net on four occasions after Christmas.

Given his competition for a place in the starting XI combined with his poor form throughout 2025, Jackson could seek a fresh start by moving away from London.

He could easily command a fee of over £50m in the current market, and he wouldn’t exactly be a massive loss to Maresca.

The Blues might have to brace themselves for a potential offer for one of their star players, however, and he would be a far bigger loss than Madueke and Jackson combined…

Chelsea could receive an offer for Cole Palmer

While Maresca is keen on selling several of his first-team players this summer to raise funds, certain players won’t be for sale.

Cole Palmer is one such name. The Englishman is at the forefront of the club’s recent success, and he will have another big part to play next season.

An extraordinary recent report from Spain has claimed that Manchester City are looking to bring him back to the Etihad, just two years after selling him.

Indeed, Pep Guardiola is willing to offer Chelsea £147m to seal a swoop for the former City academy graduate, and he could be the final part of the jigsaw for the Spaniard.

It is highly unlikely that Maresca will even consider such an offer, despite it meaning the club could rake in £100m profit on the midfielder. He is far more important than that ahead of the new season.

What Chelsea would lose if Palmer leaves

For a fee of just £40m, Palmer has arguably been one of the finest signings in the club’s recent history.

Hailed as having a “special quality” in front of goal by Guardiola a few years ago, Palmer soon emerged as one of the finest talents in the Premier League during his maiden season at Stamford Bridge.

Palmer scored 27 goals and grabbed 15 assists for the Blues as they sealed a return to European football under Mauricio Pochettino.

Last season, the former City starlet registered 32 goal contributions across all competitions, particularly shining at the recent Club World Cup.

Indeed, the attacking midfielder was in sublime form stateside. Aside from his five-goal involvements, Palmer averaged 3.5 shots per game, created four big chances while also averaging two key passes each game.

He powered the club to the title, and it sets him up for another wonderful campaign at Stamford Bridge.

This will be the first time the Blues will play in the Champions League since 2022/23, highlighting how important it is for them to keep Palmer.

Metric

2023/24

2024/5

Goals

22

15

Assists

11

8

Big chances created

17

24

Key passes per game

2.1

2.5

Shots per game

3.2

3.4

While everyone has their price, Maresca will surely be ready to turn down any official bid should it arrive in the coming days; that’s for sure.

Jackson and Madueke are certainly dispensable, with the Blues already having players better than them in the current squad.

As for Palmer, there might not be a better attacking midfielder in the whole of England who has offered as much as the Englishman since he moved to London.

There are plenty of weeks left in the transfer window, but every single Chelsea fan will be hoping that their talisman remains at the club. Not just for next season, but for the foreseeable future too.

Chelsea in talks with agents of "amazing" £40m star, he's open on the move

The Blues have made an approach for a Premier League player, who could now be tempted by a move to Stamford Bridge.

ByDominic Lund Jul 21, 2025

MatériaMais Notícias

O sábado (15) não foi só de tormento para o São Paulo com a derrota por 2 a 1 para o Botafogo em sua estreia no Campeonato Brasileiro. No decorrer da tarde, veio a informação do Morumbi de que a diretoria tricolor e o volante Luan podem ter chegado a um entendimento sobre a renovação de contrato.

A informação foi publicada inicialmente pelos portais ‘Blog do São Paulo‘ e ‘Gazeta Esportiva‘. Ao LANCE!, fontes da diretoria são-paulina indicaram que Luan e seu estafe sinalizaram de forma positiva a uma nova proposta (a quarta) feita pelo clube.

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+ ATUAÇÕES: Ceni mexe, São Paulo até cria, mas defesa deixa a desejar em derrota na estreia

Não há indicativo de qual lado enfim cedeu nas exigências. Na última semana, a diferença salarial entre o que o São Paulo oferecia e o jogador pedia beirava os 50%.

A tendência é que a reunião agendada entre os cartolas tricolores e o estafe do camisa 8 para a próxima segunda-feira (17), no CT da Barra Funda, seja para sacramentar e anunciar de forma oficial o acerto.

Luan tem contrato com o Tricolor até o final deste ano. Em junho, o jogador poderá assinar um pré-contrato com quem quiser e deixar o clube de graça.

Neste cenário, longe de um acerto, o São Paulo se posicionou. Publicamente, o técnico Rogério Ceni deu a entender que o volante não atuaria enquanto não tivesse uma definição sobre seu futuro. Assim foi feito no empate sem gols com o Ituano em pleno Morumbi, na terça-feira (11), pela Copa do Brasil, e neste sábado, ante o Botafogo. Tanto que o jogador sequer foi inscrito para a primeira rodada do Brasileirão.

Nos bastidores, conforme o L! revelou os dirigentes quiseram se antecipar ao estafe do jogador e estudavam organizar reuniões com eventuais interessados no camisa 8 para agilizar uma troca de atletas a tempo do fim da atual janela de transferências, na próxima quinta-feira (20).

Nem uma coisa nem outra. Luan viu Abel Ferreira, o técnico do Palmeiras, um dos prováveis interessados, descartar por completo sua contratação. E o São Paulo viu o Atlético-MG, outro que sondou sua joia, rejeitar uma reunião.

Dessa forma, um acerto entre as partes parecia mais plausível. O São Paulo não se manifestou de forma oficial sobre a informação até a publicação desta reportagem.

+ Confia os jogos, classificação e simule resultados do Brasileirão-23 na tabela do LANCE!

Big picture – SA have a shot at WTC final

Test cricket’s context was cracked open over the last week as South Africa won a first match in the subcontinent in a decade, and New Zealand won their first series in India to prove (some parts of) Asia can be conquered. All that means that the World Test championship (WTC) is alive. Both South Africa and New Zealand remain in contention for the final, with virtually every remaining match a must-win. For South Africa, that starts in Chattogram, where they will play their last away Test of the 2023-25 cycle.After beating Bangladesh in Mirpur, South Africa will be confident of their chances of a clean sweep – especially as their opposition continues to operate in disarray. Bangladesh replaced their head coach on the eve of the series, which they expected to start with a farewell for Shakib Al Hasan. But he had to make himself unavailable as he was not able to travel to Dhaka. Now, their current captain Najmul Hossain Shanto wants to step away from the leadership after being in charge for less than a year.Related

• Jaker Ali ruled out of second Test against SA with concussion

• Shanto wants to step down as Bangladesh captain after SA Tests

• Temba Bavuma to miss second Test against Bangladesh

Shanto’s legacy includes an away Test series win over Pakistan, and a drawn series against New Zealand at home. If this is his last game in charge, he will doubtless want to add South Africa to his list of achievements.To get that right, Bangladesh will have to acquit themselves better in the first innings, which is where they lost the opening Test. Conditions in Chattogram are expected to be less hostile, but they will also need some of their big names to step up. Mominul Haque and Litton Das, neither of whom got into double-figures last week, are two players on whose shoulders much responsibility rests, as they seek to blunt a South African attack buoyed by a fast-bowling great.Kagiso Rabada picked up his 300th wicket and his first five-for in Asia in the first Test, and after sitting out white-ball series in recent months, is showing the value of workload management. How he performs on what is expected to be an unhelpful surface in the second Test could define the outcome of the series.The same might be said of the two spin contingents. Taijul Islam exposed familiar problems in some South Africa batters’ reading of turn, and Bangladesh may want to provide him with someone who can offer more support than Nayeem Hasan did. South Africa, too, might seek an extra bowler to add an option to the four frontline bowlers they used in Mirpur, especially as the result has important consequences for them.South Africa more or less need to win at least four of their five remaining Tests to qualify for the WTC final, and while Bangladesh are out of contention, they will want to do well at home after a major setback.Mahmudul Hasan Joy hasn’t scored a half-century in his last eight Test innings•AFP/Getty Images

Form guide

Bangladesh: LLLWW
South Africa: WWDLL

In the spotlight – Mahmudul Hasan Joy and David Bedingham

With scores of 30 and 40 in the first Test, Mahmudul Hasan Joy was the only Bangladesh batter to get starts in both innings. He will know that a lot depends on him if his side is to bat better. Mahmudul already has a Test century against the same opposition, with his only hundred so far having come in South Africa in 2022, against an attack that included Keshav Maharaj and Wiaan Mulder. Since that hundred, Mahmudul has scored three half-centuries in 21 innings, and none in his last eight. As recently as August, he scored 65 for Bangladesh A against Pakistan A, and will want to re-find form in this most important of matches.Just seven Tests into his career, David Bedingham will be keen to build on the hundred he scored with an under-strength South Africa team in New Zealand earlier in the year, by showing what he can do in a first-choice team. Since that match, Bedingham has not crossed 40 in six innings, and was dismissed for 11 and 12 in Mirpur. With a first-class average of 51.66, Bedingham is, by a distance, one of South Africa’s best batting talents, and will be given a long run in a Test side searching for stability. He’ll also know that he carries a reputation as a run-scorer, and is expected to deliver on that soon.

Team News – Jaker Ali ruled out

Batter Jaker Ali has been ruled out of the second Test after suffering from concussion during practice on Sunday. Bangladesh have handed a maiden call up to Mahidul Islam Ankon in his place. But they could yet replace Jaker with a bowler in seamer Nahid Rana, who has four Test caps to his name. Bangladesh might also consider handing a debut to left-arm spinner Hasan Murad in place of offspinner Nayeem, who went wicketless last week.Bangladesh (probable): 1 Mahmudul Hasan Joy, 2 Shadman Islam, 3 Mominul Haque, 4 Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt), 5 Mushfiqur Rahim, 6 Litton Das (wk), 7 Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 8 Mahidul Islam Ankon/Nahid Rana, 9 Nayeem Hasan/Hasan Murad, 10 Taijul Islam, 11 Hasan MahmudSouth Africa could field an additional seamer in either Lungi Ngidi or Dane Paterson•Alex Davidson/ICC/Getty Images

Temba Bavuma has been ruled out of this match as he continues to recover from an elbow injury, which will leave Aiden Markram with the leadership role again. Though four bowlers proved enough for South Africa in the first Test, they may want to bulk up their resources at a more batter-friendly venue in Chattogram. That would likely mean benching Matthew Breetzke, and including one of spin-bowling allrounder Senuran Muthusamy or a seamer in either Lungi Ngidi or Dane Paterson.South Africa (probable): 1 Aiden Markram (capt), 2 Tony de Zorzi, 3 Tristan Stubbs, 4 David Bedingham, 5 Ryan Rickelton, 6 Matthew Breetzke/Senuran Muthumsamy, 7 Kyle Verreynne (wk), 8 Wiaan Mulder, 9 Keshav Maharaj, 10 Dane Piedt, 11 Kagiso Rabada

Pitch and Conditions – Chattogram likely to be batting friendly

After the bounce and turn of Mirpur, which was particularly prevalent on the opening day, Chattogram is expected to be better for batters upfront. It is reputed to be the flattest of all Bangladesh’s pitches, with ten totals of over 500 in 24 matches played at this venue. That might make taking 20 wickets a challenge.The weather is set to be fair for all five days, with no rain forecast, and temperatures in the early 30°C. Humidity is high at over 70%, and South Africa were asked how they were preparing for it. “From a weather point of view, there’s not too much we can do besides hydrate well,” Markram said.During the first Test, Kyle Verreynne joined Aiden Markram in getting a Test century in Asia•AFP/Getty Images

Stats and Trivia

• Bangladesh have only won two of the 24 Tests they have played at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram, and the last one was almost six years ago. They beat West Indies in 2018, and previously also won a match against Zimbabwe in 2014.
• Before the Mirpur Test, Markram was South Africa’s only top-seven batter to have played a Test in the subcontinent, and consequently, the only one to have scored a century in Asia. He has since been joined in the latter category by Kyle Verreynne.

Quotes

“You have asked a very deep question. I don’t have an answer to it. This depends a lot on the individual. Some can move on, while others may be affected by [off-field activities]. I personally try to keep away from these things, and stick to my job.”
“It’s not much that we pay attention to, to be honest. It’s completely outside of our camp, outside of our team… Whatever the Bangladesh team is going through, unfortunately, has got nothing to do with us.”

His comments come at a time when there are still doubts over his availability for IPL 2025

Sruthi Ravindranath27-Oct-20249:15

Will CSK retain Dhoni as uncapped player? What about Jadeja and Dube?

MS Dhoni has said he wants to enjoy “whatever last few years of cricket” he can play. While there are still doubts over his availability for IPL 2025, Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan said last week he was hopeful that Dhoni will be part of the upcoming season.”I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I’m able to play,” Dhoni said at a promotional event in Goa. “Like how during our childhood we used to go out and play at 4[pm], just enjoying the game. But when you play professional sport it becomes difficult to enjoy the game just like a game. So what I want to do is, there are emotions and commitments, but I want to enjoy the game for the next few years.”October 31 is the deadline by which the ten franchises have to submit their list of retained players to the IPL ahead of the mega auction, and this year Dhoni is eligible to be retained by CSK as an uncapped player. That was made possible after the IPL brought back a rule that had been scrapped in 2021, according to which a player can be considered as uncapped if they have been retired from international cricket for five years.Related

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Dhoni had batted lower down the order throughout IPL 2024, coming out to face only a handful of deliveries. While workload management owing to his knee surgery was one of the reasons for the move, Dhoni also revealed that it was to give game-time to India players who were then in the fray for the T20 World Cup.”My thinking was simple, if others are doing their job well why do I need to come up the order,” Dhoni said. “If you’re talking about last year (season) specifically, the T20 World Cup squad was going to be announced soon. So we have to give people who are fighting for a spot a chance. In our team (CSK) we had a few, [Ravindra] Jadeja was there, Shivam Dube was there so you give them an opportunity to prove themselves to get into the Indian team. There was nothing in it for me, no selection and other things. So I’m good behind [playing down the order] and my team was happy with what I was doing.”Dhoni: ‘Love how teams are playing Tests now’Dhoni admitted he’s a fan of Bazball. He said he “loves” how Test cricket has become more result-oriented when asked if he was a fan of this high-risk, no-fear brand of cricket.”You can give cricket any term that you want to, what we have seen is cricket has evolved,” Dhoni said. “The way people are playing cricket is very different. There was a time when in ODIs something was considered a safe score, now that score is not safe in T20s too.Will Dhoni return for another season?•AFP/Getty Images”You give something a term, it becomes much more interesting because you start talking about it, you start relating to it but at the end of the day what is it? It’s a way to play cricket. Some people want to play aggressive cricket, some people want to play authentic cricket. A lot of that depends on the kind of team you have got – whether they can change the way they play that cricket. What is important is to realise the strength of your team and according to the strength of the team you decide which is the way you want to play cricket but it takes time. It doesn’t happen that overnight you say, ‘let’s start playing like this tomorrow’. You need to give time to individuals because they have played maybe 10-12-15 years of cricket and they have a certain way of playing cricket, so you need to give them that time to change.”Dhoni said there were a few “difficult” days back when he was playing Tests especially when he knew the match was heading towards a draw.”For me, the most difficult time during a Test match was the fifth day of a match which is the last day when you knew that 100% it is going to be a draw,” he said. “I would still need to keep for nearly 2.5 sessions and that was the most tiring part. You see there is no result happening, you are just going through the motions. Yes, bowlers would like to take wickets, batters will try to score runs, [but] there is no result in the game. You think let’s finish this and go, why do I have to be here. So I love the fact there’s change in the way teams are playing Test cricket.”Imagine telling someone who doesn’t know much cricket we play over five days and we start at 9.30 and 4.30 is the scheduled end of play, we play till 5[pm] sometimes, and after five days we don’t get a result. That’s not nice for the game. So I love how there’s more results in today’s world. Even if we are playing only four days of cricket and one day gets washed out, still you get a result – that’s the beauty of Test cricket and that’s how it should stay – you want to get a result after five days and you shouldn’t have a draw.”

يستعد برشلونة لمواجهة ريال أوفييدو، مساء غداً الخميس، ويأمل الفريق الكاتالوني في مواصلة الحفاظ على زخم الانتصارات.

ويدخل برشلونة مباراة الغد بدون بعض لاعبيه الأساسيين، مثل جافي وأليخاندرو بالدي ولامين يامال، بسبب الإصابة.

ويغيب جافي لاعب خط وسط برشلونة منذ فترة طويلة مثل الحارس الألماني الدولي مارك تير شتيجن، ومن المتوقع أن يعود أليخاندرو بالدي ولامين يامال بشكل قريب.

وبحسب صحيفة “آس” الإسبانية، فإنه من المتوقع أن يحصل أليخاندرو بالدي على التصريح الطبي لمباراة الأحد في الدوري الإسباني ضد ريال سوسيداد على ملعب مونتجويك.

اقرأ أيضاً.. مدرب ألفاريز السابق: لا أراه سعيدًا في أتلتيكو مدريد.. وقد يلعب لـ”حب الطفولة”

وكان بالدي خريج أكاديمية لاماسيا قد غاب عن آخر 3 مباريات بسبب إصابة في الفخد تعرض لها خلال تدريبات برشلونة في وقت سابق من هذا الشهر.

وتدرب بالدي مع الفريق لليوم الثاني على التوالي، لكن هانز فليك مدرب برشلونة أكد استبعاد عودته لمباراة الغد، لكن المؤشرات تشير إلى أنه سيكون متاحاً لمباراة ريال سوسيداد.

وينتظر فليك أيضًا تعافي لامين يامال الذي بدأ التدريب على أرض الملعب منذ بضعة أيام، وإن كان يتدرب منفردًا، حيث كان قد غاب في وقت سابق بسبب ألم في منطقة العانة، لكنه أستأنف التدريبات مؤخراً في خطوة على الاتجاه الصحيح.

وفي حال لم يتعرض لامين يامال لانتكاسات، فإنه من المتوقع أن يلعب لبضعة دقائق ضد ريال سوسيداد، يوم الأحد، وسيكون هدفه الرئيسي لقاء باريس سان جيرمان.