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Leicester City may be on the hunt for a new manager, but that doesn’t mean they have put a pause on recruiting players with pre-season now underway.

Leicester City's hunt for a new manager

Ruud van Nistelrooy was relieved of his duties at Leicester City nine weeks after their relegation from the Premier League, which has put the cat among the pigeons regarding who his successor will be at the King Power Stadium.

Chris Wilder and Sean Dyche have been mentioned in connection with the role, though the chaotic nature of events at the Foxes hasn’t impressed former player Matt Piper.

He stated: “Flip-flopping around from different managers, different journeymen, just reeks of what we’ve all been pointing fingers at the club for. It all seems a little bit unprofessional, not well planned out and scraping the barrel. No candidates really on that list that you’re really excited about or I’m certainly not anyway.”

Certainly, there is an understandable level of dissatisfaction from supporters heading into this season and questions are there to be asked about the process that led to Van Nistelrooy’s future being decided so late on in the grand scheme of things.

Nevertheless, recruitment must go on in the East Midlands, and Leicester could pounce for free agent Jack Kingdon if enough of their budget is put aside to thrash out a deal.

Leicester City’s 2025/26 start
Sheffield Wednesday (H)	Championship
Huddersfield Town (A)	EFL Cup
Preston North End (A)	Championship
Charlton Athletic (A)	Championship
Birmingham City (H)	Championship

Retaining key stars or assets for the future will also be important. However, 16-year-old Louis Page has rejected a professional contract at the Foxes, which will need to be looked at.

Either way, there may finally be some positivity for Leicester fans to get their teeth into amid reports involving their pursuit of a high-profile England international.

Leicester City keen to sign Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

According to Haber Turk, Leicester City are keen on bringing Besiktas midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to the King Power and his current employers are happy to offload him this summer.

The Turkish giants could move to terminate his contract, leaving the former Liverpool man free to leave for nothing, though Premier League newcomers Burnley are also in hot pursuit of the 31-year-old.

Leicester City may now approach 4-4-1-1 boss who has coached 322 PL matches

Ruud van Nistelrooy could find himself ousted at the King Power Stadium.

By
Sean Markus Clifford

Jun 5, 2025

Earning 35 caps for England in his pomp, Oxlade-Chamberlain scored once in 20 appearances for Besiktas last term, struggling to break into their side regularly due to a string of injury issues.

It remains to be seen whether he would be willing to drop to the Championship, but his affordability will definitely appeal to those in the corridors of power at the Foxes.

Once labelled “brilliant” by Paul Merson, Oxlade-Chamberlain still has more to give at a high level. Nevertheless, his wage demands will need to be factored in should Leicester press ahead in negotiations, as he currently earns £69,000-a-week with Besiktas.

The PCB is confident that Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and the National Stadium in Karachi will be ready in time to host the Champions Trophy next year, though ongoing work could continue to impact their bilateral commitments this season, including the Test against England in Karachi.The board has already moved the second Test against Bangladesh, originally scheduled in Karachi, to Rawalpindi. Speaking to reporters on Monday in Lahore, Mohsin Naqvi, the PCB chairman, acknowledged that “matches [during the season] may move back and forth but the main target is that these stadiums are ready before the Champions Trophy”.England play their second of the three Tests in Karachi, from October 15-19. In announcing the switch of Bangladesh’s Test to Rawalpindi on Sunday, the PCB did not exactly nail down Karachi as a venue for England.Related

• Gaddafi redevelopment picks up pace as Champions Trophy nears

• Pakistan women miss out on daily allowances at training camp

• Pakistan vs Bangladesh Test moved from Karachi to Rawalpindi

“At this stage, we will not like to speculate on the hosting of the second Test in Karachi from 15-19 October and will continue to work closely with the architects and construction experts on the safe and secure hosting of the match, while keeping the England and Wales Cricket Board updated,” the statement said.The fluidity of the situation is evident in how the switch in venues for Bangladesh occurred. Two days after posting ticket prices online, the PCB announced the Karachi Test would be played behind closed doors with no spectators. Then on Sunday they announced they were moving it to Rawalpindi, because they wanted to ensure the renovation work went on uninterrupted and that hosting a game while such major work was being undertaken could have an impact on the game.Naqvi confirmed on Monday the reasons for the move. “Our calculation was that we could do matches without crowds, but various security institutions and the police said that even if there are people working inside, you shouldn’t host a match.”That talk with journalists has led to some reports that Naqvi implied a change in venues or dates for the Champions Trophy from the draft schedule the PCB has submitted to the ICC. In a statement on Tuesday the PCB emphatically denied that was the case.”During the media talk, which is available on the PCB’s official YouTube channel, the PCB chair clearly stated that the redevelopment and redesign of the three designated stadia would be completed on schedule, ensuring readiness to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The PCB chair also mentioned that while some domestic matches may need to be shifted to facilitate uninterrupted construction work, this in no way pertains to the ICC Champions Trophy, which remains a priority for the PCB as a premier eight-team international event.”During that media talk, Naqvi did point to the pressing need for this renovation work. “Our stadiums and those abroad, there is a massive difference,” he said. “In no way were our stadiums international-standard stadiums. None of our stadiums could qualify internationally. Not the seats, not bathrooms, and a view that looks like you are watching from 500 metres away. If I want to stay in a 1980 model then great, but the world has gone far ahead.”Naqvi pointed out that while both stadiums in Lahore and Karachi are eventually undergoing total upgrades, partial renovation between now and early next year will mean they are ready in time for the Champions Trophy.”Right now we have five months,” he said. “In that time, definitely the two enclosures on either side [in the Gaddafi stadium] and the main building [will be ready], that is the focus for now.”The stadiums will be totally upgraded. Not just this but we plan to have a new stadium in Islamabad, in Abbottabad, we want to work on that as well. A few stadiums that we don’t operate – we’ve written to the local authorities that either you upgrade it or hand it to us so we can host domestic and even international cricket there. These stadiums will be 100% upgraded but in the next five months, the target we have, we hope to complete that.”The New York stadium [for the T20 World Cup] was completed in the last 10-15 days. We will be ready well before that timeline.”

Manchester United appear to be making huge strides in their move to land Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo after a second offer was made in recent days.

The Cameroonian has been one of the club’s key targets over the course of this window, as boss Ruben Amorim looks to improve his frontline at Old Trafford.

Such interest is hardly a surprise given his form in the Premier League this campaign, netting 20 times in his 38 appearances – the best return of his professional career to date.

It’s been reported that the latest bid is in the region of £60m for the 25-year-old, but it remains to be seen if such an offer will be accepted, with the player himself wanting the move this window.

However, even if Mbeumo does complete a switch to join the Red Devils this summer, it appears as though he won’t be the last attacking addition, with numerous other names still on their radar.

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

A striker has been high up on United’s radar, with Juventus star Dušan Vlahović the latest name mentioned over a potential switch to join Amorim’s side.

Viktor Gyokeres has been another player hugely linked with the Red Devils, recently stating his desire to leave current side Sporting CP ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

However, another name has remerged on their shortlist, with Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku again a key target, after previously registering interest last summer, according to L’Equipe.

They claim that United have entered talks with Enzo Maresca’s side over a deal for the Frenchman forward, who cost a staggering £52m back in the summer of 2023.

It also states that current Red Devils star Alejandro Garnacho could be used to lower the fee in any deal with the Argentine expected to depart throughout the off-season.

Why United’s £52m target could be perfect alongside Mbeumo

As previously mentioned, a deal for Mbeumo appears to be heading in the right direction, with his goal tally showcasing the talent he possesses within the final third.

However, should he move to United this summer, it’s unclear which position he will regularly feature in, having operated in the right-wing position at the GTEC this season.

The 25-year-old has also started in a central role when needed, something which he will likely do on a regular basis at Old Trafford considering Amorim operates with a 3-4-2-1 system which uses two central attacking midfielders.

His versatility could be key to any future success endured by the club in the near future, but he could also strike up a key partnership with fellow potential addition Nkunku.

The 27-year-old has struggled for minutes with the Blues this campaign, starting just nine times in the league but still posting a respectable tally of three goals and two assists.

He’s capable of playing as a central striker, or even as a number 10, but he will likely operate in the former, with the Cameroonian handing him the ammunition from a deeper role.

The Chelsea star, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by one analyst, has averaged 1.1 shots on target per 90 this campaign, putting 44% of his efforts on target, subsequently able to provide the needed threat the side have lacked.

Christopher Nkunku’s PL stats for Chelsea (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

27

Goals & assists

5

Shots on target per 90

1.1

Pass accuracy

90%

Shot-on-target accuracy

44%

Key passes made

1.4

Aerials won

42%

Stats via FBref

He will certainly be bolstered in the final third by Mbeumo’s creativity, with the Cameroonian registering 3.7 progressive passes per 90, having the tools to hand those in front of him with key opportunities.

Nkunku’s talents don’t end there, also posting a superb tally of 90% of passes completed, with 1.4 of his passes per game being defined as key passes, subsequently able to return the favour to Mbeumo.

He may not be the tallest centre-forward, but he’s managed to win 42% of the aerials he’s entered, having the tools to get on the end of crosses provided by Mbeumo, who ranks in the top 9% of attackers in the division for such a category.

The prospect of the pair linking up together at Old Trafford is certainly an exciting one, having the chance to lead the club back up the table throughout 2025/26.

Whilst it’s unclear how advanced a deal for Nkunku is, he has proven that he’s capable of being a success in the Premier League, subsequently weakening a rival in the process.

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Tottenham Hotspur chiefs hold a very real belief that they can now sign a “sensational” England international following their Europa League triumph on Wednesday, with the player himself also entertaining talks behind-the-scenes.

Ange Postecoglou makes Tottenham history after precious European win

Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou came under serious fire for his early-season comment that he ‘always’ wins silverware during his second season in charge, but the Australian’s decision to back himself with a bold statement was ultimately proved correct on a glorious night in Spain.

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His future is set to be a major talking point after the Australian’s triumph in Bilbao.

2

By
Emilio Galantini

May 23, 2025

Spurs parked the bus and shut up shop against a dominant but largely unthreatening Man United side in the Europa League final on Wednesday, following Brennan Johnson’s scrappy opener just before half-time, with Postecoglou’s side displaying a resoluteness we’ve scarcely seen this season.

Tottenham vs Man Utd – best performers on the night	Match Rating
Guglielmo Vicario	7.7
Yves Bissouma	7.6
Cristian Romero	7.4
Bruno Fernandes	7.4
Destiny Udogie	7.2
via WhoScored

The heroics of shot-stopper Guglielmo Vicario in goal, not to mention the stellar performances of Pedro Porro, Destiny Udogie, Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, helped Spurs to keep a rare clean sheet and end the club’s 17-year wait for a major trophy.

Their 1-0 win over United in the Europa League final also marked their first European trophy since 1984, with the Lilywhites squad and Postecoglou celebrating long into the night after what was a monumentous occasion at Ruben Amorim’s expense.

The trophy drought is now officially over, and to put the cherry on top of an already-sweet cake, Tottenham are set to play Champions League football next season.

The significance of Wednesday evening cannot be overstated, with Spurs’ qualification for the Champions League handing the north Londoners a seismic financial windfall whilst also making them a far more appealing destination for the continent’s top talents.

The summer transfer window is right around the corner, and Tottenham have dramatically increased their odds of tempting world-class targets by hoisting the Europa League aloft in Spain.

According to reports, a centre-back signing is on the cards this summer, and they retain a keen interest in Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi.

Spurs actually made an ambitious £70 million bid for the England international in January, which was rejected by Eagles chairman Steve Parish, but the consensus is that Tottenham are still eyeing a move for Guehi as he enters the final 12 months of his contract.

Marc Guehi prepared to hold Tottenham transfer talks

According to GiveMeSport, who shared a new update on his future this week, Guehi would be keen to hold talks with Tottenham and find out what they have to say – providing a boost for Postecoglou’s side in pursuit of the defender.

As per their information, Spurs have been given “fresh” belief they can seal a deal for Guehi after their European conquest, and Palace may have to sell him for £50 million or less considering the player’s contract situation.

Club chiefs are also “adamant” behind-the-scenes that qualification for the Champions League could tempt the 24-year-old to N17, and it is clear why they wish to sign Guehi this summer.

He’s been a pivotal member of Palace’s backline for years, and is now an established England regular following his impressive performances in place of Harry Maguire during Euro 2024 last year.

An “incredible” £100m midfielder who is among Liverpool’s top targets is now open to leaving his club this summer, according to a report.

Reds set sights on new midfielder

It has been an unbelievable first season in the Anfield dugout for Arne Slot, with the Dutch manager securing the Premier League title despite making very few additions to the squad he inherited from Jurgen Klopp.

However, it appears as though Slot is now looking to put his own stamp on the squad, and bringing in a new midfielder seems to be of particular interest as we approach the summer transfer window.

The Reds are now preparing to submit a £34m offer for Barcelona’s Frenkie De Jong, whose future at the Camp Nou is now uncertain, while they are also in the race for Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, although it will take £80m to prise the Englishman away from the Eagles.

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Earlier this year, it was reported that Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White is a top target for Slot, and there has now been a positive update on the Merseysiders’ pursuit of the central midfielder.

According to a report from The Boot Room, Gibbs-White is now open to leaving Nottingham Forest this summer, with the Englishman set to consider his options if the Tricky Trees fail to secure a place in next season’s Champions League.

Forest are keen to keep hold of the 25-year-old, but there is growing interest in his signature, with Manchester City and Newcastle United also in the race alongside Liverpool, which could make it difficult to keep hold of him if they fail to finish in the top five.

However, a deal will not be cheap, as Forest may only be willing to sanction a departure for a fee in the region of £100m.

"Incredible" Gibbs-White deserves big move

Despite a stellar campaign, it is looking increasingly likely that Forest will miss out on Champions League football, having now fallen to sixth place after a poor run, which could cause Gibbs-White to look for the exit door, and there are plenty of signs he could be a solid signing for Liverpool.

The former Wolverhampton Wanderers man has excelled since signing for Forest, most notably impressing in an attacking sense, picking up five goals and nine assists in 30 Premier League outings this season.

ESPN’s Janusz Michallik was also left impressed by the Forest star’s work rate in their 2-1 victory against Tottenham Hotspur last month, taking to X to single him out for high praise.

At 25-years-old, there is every sign that Gibbs-White is now entering his prime, and he could be a top-quality addition to Liverpool’s midfield, but Forest are in a strong negotiating position, with the midfielder contracted until 2027, and shelling out £100m would be a risk.

Yet more dropped points for Rangers in the Scottish Premiership, although, on this occasion, at least Barry Ferguson’s men didn’t lose.

On Sunday, the Gers seemed set for yet another defeat, 2-0 down against Aberdeen at Pittodrie and a man down too.

However, Hamza Igamane halved the deficit immediately after half time before, right at the death, after Cyriel Dessers had thwacked the post, Ianis Hagi curled home a stunning equaliser with, virtually, the last kick of the afternoon.

During Sky Sports’ coverage, Rangers legend Kris Boyd, rather jokingly, exclaimed that the title race is still on, with the Light Blues now 15 points behind Celtic with five games to go, albeit their goal difference is 42 inferior.

One player in particular came in for scathing criticism for his performance at Pittodrie.

Yet another Rangers red card

40 minutes into Sunday’s visit to Aberdeen, Ross McCausland was sent off for a second bookable offense, making a very rash challenge on Topi Keskinen.

This came just three days after Robin Pröpper was dismissed only 12 minutes into their Europa League quarter-final first leg against Athletic Club Bilbao, with Barry Ferguson’s side doing incredibly well to hold on for a goalless draw given the circumstances.

This is the Gers’ fifth red card of the campaign, after Jefté vs Dynamo Kyiv, Mohamed Diomandé vs Dundee United and Hagi vs St Johnstone, so let’s see how that compares to previous seasons.

As the table shows, one more sending off for Rangers this season would be their highest amount in a single campaign since 2018/19 when, mind-bogglingly, they collected 12, albeit five of which were brandished in the direction of a certain Alfredo Morelos.

Rangers number of red cards per season

Season

Red cards

2024/25

5

2023/24

5

2022/23

3

2021/22

4

2020/21

2

2019/20

4

2018/19

12

2017/18

6

2016/17

4

All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt

However, it was not the dismissed McCausland who came in for the most criticism on Sunday.

Rangers star must be dropped after early substitution

Fair to say, Danilo has not lived up to expectations since arriving at Rangers from Feyenoord two years ago.

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However, his display at Pittodrie must surely be one of his worst in red, white and blue, as these statistics outline.

Danilo’s performance vs Aberdeen

Statistics

Danilo

Match rank

Minutes

45

N/A

Shots

0

12th

Dribbles attempted

3

5th

Dribbles successful

0

N/A

Possession lost

9

14th

Duels lost

7

6th

SofaScore rating

6.5

23rd

All statistics courtesy of SofaScore

The fact Danilo lost the ball nine times in just 45 minutes is very concerning, having no shots, successfully completing no dribbles, and winning only four of 11 duels.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Kris Boyd exclaimed, “Danilo. £5m… WOW!”, adding “some of these Rangers players should never be seen again”, labeling the team’s first half performance “lethargic” and “embarrassing”.

Danilo has so far scored just 12 goals in 43 Rangers appearances, which is even more concerning considering there have been 68 matches during this period that he has not featured in, either due to injury or simply because he hasn’t been selected.

Thus, Ferguson is not likely to give the Brazilian forward any minutes against Athletic Club at San Mamés on Thursday, and his days as a Rangers player might be numbered.

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