A polêmica envolvendo Palmeiras e CBF está dando reflexos no São Paulo, que enfrenta o rival nesta quarta-feira (5), às 19h30, no Morumbi, pela ida das quartas de final da Copa do Brasil. Apesar de toda a expectativa, o Tricolor está tranquilo, mas atento as próximas ações.
Em entrevista ao canal Camisa 21, no YouTube, o diretor de futebol do São Paulo, Carlos Belmonte, falou sobre o tema e preferiu ‘jogar panos quentes’ na polêmica. Segundo o dirigente, o Tricolor segue com confiança nos protocolos da CBF, mas de olhos abertos.
– As questões extracampo vamos estar sempre atentos, temos que acreditar que tudo ocorra na melhor forma possível. Acreditamos na arbitragem do Bráulio na quarta-feira. Se ele for bem vamos elogiar, se ele for mal, vamos falar. Acreditamos no sistema do futebol brasileiro e na seriedade do que estamos fazendo aqui. Vamos ficar atentos. Essas situações nunca são boas perto desse momento decisivo. Não vai ter posicionamento nenhum do São Paulo nesse sentido, mas estamos atentos. Sempre é ruim nas vésperas de um jogo decisivo, qualquer ponderação. O que nos cabe é ficar atentos. Os erros acontecem contra todos os times. Isso acontece sempre. Faz parte do futebol – disse Belmonte.
Para os tricolores paulistas apaixonados: produtos a partir de R$39,90 na FutFanatics!
O diretor também relembrou um gol polêmico validado para o Palmeiras no Choque-Rei de 2021, quando Gustavo Gómez marcou um gol contra, mas o juiz assinalou interferência de Miranda, que estava impedido no lance.
– Eu acho que todos os clubes têm os direitos de fazerem as ponderações. Não podemos aceitar e criar qualquer tipo de tumulto nesse momento. O São Paulo como sempre vai estar atento a tudo que acontece nesse sentido. Sempre acho que o importante é quando bola rolar, que ganhe quem jogar melhor. Erros de arbitragem acontecem muitas vezes e são comuns no futebol. Nós mesmos contra o Palmeiras, em 2021, tivemos um gol contra do Gómez e foi dado impedimento. Cabe a todos nós ter muita calma – finalizou Belmonte.
O que aconteceu?
João Martins, auxiliar de Abel Ferreira que comandou o Palmeiras na Ligga Arena contra o Athletico por conta da suspensão de Abel Ferreira, fez fortes declarações contra os homens do apito. O profissional chegou a falar em vergonha e afirmou que no Brasil o “sistema não deixa os melhores ganharem”.
Nesta terça-feira (3), a principal entidade do futebol brasileiro emitiu nota repudiando as falas do auxiliar técnico do Verdão, João Martins, e falando até em xenofobia por parte do português. O Palmeiras respondeu defendendo o profissional e fazendo uma série de perguntas para a Confederação Brasileira de Futebol.
Liverpool’s search for a top-tier striker has intensified as the transfer window enters its final stages.
The club’s pursuit of Alexander Isak has dominated headlines this summer.
However, with Newcastle holding firm over a potential British-record transfer fee, Liverpool have started exploring alternative options.
Alexander Isak
The Reds have already been active in the market.
They have brought in Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen, Hugo Ekitiké from Frankfurt, Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth, and Giovanni Leoni from Parma.
These signings signal the club’s intent to strengthen the squad ahead of another Premier League title challenge and a fresh Champions League campaign.
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Liverpool target Isak alternative
Isak’s protracted saga has created uncertainty, forcing the club to explore options capable of delivering an immediate impact while providing long-term potential.
One such player has emerged as a potential alternative.
A striker described by journalist Pablo González as a “monster,” whose skill set and goal-scoring instincts make him an intriguing proposition for a team with high expectations in both domestic and European competition.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Enter Julian Álvarez, the 25-year-old Argentine international. The Liverpool Echo’s Ian Doyle has suggested that the former Manchester City star is ‘another name’ on their radar, while his colleague, Paul Gorst, has questioned how much ‘appetite’ there might be on Liverpool’s end to test Atletico Madrid’s resolve.
With a market value soaring to £142m, Álvarez has made 46 appearances for Argentina, scoring 13 goals, and netting 29 goals alongside seven assists across all competitions last season for Atletico.
His statistical profile positions him as a modern forward capable of both finishing chances and contributing to build-up play, drawing comparisons to players such as Vinícius Jr. of Real Madrid and Omar Marmoush of Manchester City.
Liverpool’s interest reflects a desire to secure a striker who combines goal threat with versatility.
Álvarez is capable of playing across the front line, linking effectively with wingers, and providing an option in wide channels if needed.
While the price tag and competitive market will complicate negotiations, his proven ability to perform in high-level competitions makes him an appealing alternative should the Isak deal fall through.
How Álvarez compares to Isak
From a tactical standpoint, Álvarez offers several advantages that could make him a suitable replacement for Isak while also complementing Liverpool’s existing attacking options.
His profile blends technical skill, mobility, and a high work rate, which would enable him to integrate into Arne Slot’s pressing and positional systems.
Whereas Isak excels as a central finisher with excellent movement and finishing in tight spaces, Álvarez provides additional dimensions through progressive passing and creative contributions, offering versatility in multiple attacking scenarios.
Statistically, the comparison underscores this difference.
2024/25 Season
Metric
Isak
Álvarez
Matches Played
34
37
Starts
34
30
Goals
23
17
Assists
6
4
Penalty Goals
4
4
Source: FBref
In terms of ball progression, Álvarez averages 2.83 progressive carries per 90 versus Isak’s 2.71, and 3.30 progressive passes per 90 compared with Isak’s 2.88, highlighting his involvement in moving the ball forward and initiating attacking sequences.
Shooting metrics reflect a similar pattern.
Álvarez takes 2.51 shots per 90 with 1.29 on target, slightly below Isak’s 3.10 shots and 1.34 on-target rate, but his shot accuracy (51.4%) surpasses Isak’s 43.2%, indicating a higher efficiency when attempting to score.
Passing also remains an area where the Atleti forward differentiates himself, completing 25.7 passes per 90 at a 74.2% pass completion rate, compared with Isak’s 17.0 passes and 75.3% accuracy.
Notably, Álvarez’s progressive passing distance of 95.1 metres per 90 dwarfs Isak’s 53.7 metres, showing his capacity to advance the ball into threatening positions consistently.
In terms of creativity, Álvarez recorded 3.87 shot-creating actions per 90, significantly above Isak’s 3.01, suggesting he can make an impact beyond pure goal scoring.
This combination of attributes makes Álvarez a multi-dimensional forward capable of linking play, finishing opportunities, and contributing to Liverpool’s wide and central attacking structures.
He offers a slightly different skill set from Isak, providing Slot with the flexibility to adjust the team’s tactical approach depending on opposition and match context.
His ability to carry the ball into attacking zones, create chances for others, and finish efficiently mirrors Liverpool’s style of blending pressing intensity with dynamic attacking movement.
Moreover, the 25-year-old’s versatility could help Liverpool mitigate risk.
Should Isak’s transfer fail, having a player capable of playing across the front line or drifting into wide channels ensures Liverpool are not left with a single type of striker.
His profile complements the creativity of Mohammed Salah, allowing for multiple combinations in attack.
While Isak may bring superior finishing instincts, Álvarez provides a more rounded offensive package, combining goal-scoring ability with creative distribution and positional fluidity.
He represents a high-potential alternative for Liverpool, embodying the traits necessary to thrive in the Premier League while adding layers of creativity and adaptability.
The Argentine offers a balance of efficiency, technical ability, and tactical intelligence that aligns with Liverpool’s attacking philosophy.
If Liverpool act decisively, he could emerge as a central figure in their forward line, bridging the gap left by an unsettled Isak while complementing the club’s existing offensive talents.
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Kerkez will love him: £76m star talking to Alisson about joining Liverpool
Liverpool are drawing up contingency plans in the event they can’t sign Newcastle’s Isak.
Following Eddie Howe’s approval, Newcastle United have now reportedly opened initial talks to sign a midfield reinforcement who’s already keen on the move.
Newcastle's nightmare summer goes on
Newcastle have just under a month to turn their summer around. So far, the Magpies have welcomed Aaron Ramsdale, Anthony Elanga and young winger Antonio Cordero. Whilst on paper that may sound like a solid list of incomings, the real story is that it’s been a nightmare summer full of rejection for those at St James’ Park.
Howe made his demand clear to PIF that he wanted any business done early and, to the credit of the Newcastle owners, their failure hasn’t been for the want of trying. Initial targets included Liam Delap, Joao Pedro and Bryan Mbeumo before all three headed to Chelsea and Manchester United respectively. But it couldn’t go on like this, could it?
Chelsea forward Joao Pedro
Simply put, it could go on and has done ever since. Next on their list of targets was Hugo Ekitike. Lying in wait this time around, however, were the Premier League champions before Ekitike rejected the Magpies and became a Liverpool player.
The same story has since followed Newcastle’s interest in Benjamin Sesko, who has reportedly chosen Manchester United to send Howe and co. back to square one for the umpteenth time this summer.
Newcastle chiefs confident £40m star with "nose for goals" is set to join
Newcastle are confident they will sign a Premier League forward.
By
Callum Kemp
Aug 7, 2025
They can’t be knocked for their resilience, however, and those in Tyneside have instantly picked themselves up to go again – reportedly targeting both Nicolas Jackson and Malick Thiaw.
Reports have even gone as far as to suggest that they’ve already had an opening offer worth £26m to sign Thiaw turned down by AC Milan, having stepped up their chase for the centre-back.
Whether that ends their pursuit or they increase their offer is the big question, but the Milan defender isn’t the only new name on Newcastle’s reported shortlist.
Newcastle open talks to sign John McGinn
According to Football Insider, Newcastle have now opened initial talks to sign John McGinn from Aston Villa after receiving Howe’s approval. The Scotland midfielder is reportedly keen on a move to St James’ Park in an instant boost for Newcastle, and could yet be on his way to Tyneside this month.
Whether Unai Emery is willing to bid farewell to his captain is another question, though. Following a quiet summer of their own, Aston Villa are reportedly reluctant to sell McGinn this summer.
Whilst adding another attacker to their ranks should take priority, there’s no doubt that McGinn would add valuable leadership to the current Newcastle squad and replace the departed Sean Longstaff.
Will Graham Potter secure any more new signings before the start of West Ham United’s Premier League campaign?
So far this summer, the cash-strapped Hammers have brought in both Callum Wilson and Kyle Walker-Peters on free transfers, while El Hadji Malick Diouf has arrived from Slavia Prague for a reported fee of £19m.
However, given that Mohammed Kudus has been sold to Tottenham for around £55m, the Irons are still in the market for midfield reinforcements, so have they pinpointed their prime target?
West Ham's search for a new midfielder
Earlier this week, it was reported that West Ham had identified Jacob Ramsey as their ‘top target’, willing to spend around £30m to secure the signature of the midfielder.
However, it was claimed that Aston Villa value the 24-year-old at close to £43m, with Nottingham Forest and Tottenham also purportedly interested, meaning this certainly will not be an easy deal to finalise.
Thus, potentially in need of an alternative, Football Insider reports that the Hammers are ‘plotting a late-window move’ for Mateus Fernandes of Southampton, adding that the Saints are ‘reluctant’ to sell, but the Portuguese under-21 international is ‘keen’ to return to the Premier League, following his side’s relegation.
It’ll therefore be interesting to see if he is involved in their EFL Championship opener against Wrexham at St Mary’s on Saturday.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Fernandes joined Southampton from Sporting CP for £15m as recently as last August, but there claims he could fetch as much as £50m, which would make him West Ham’s record signing, surpassing the record of £45m held by Sébastien Haller.
Of course, the later into the window we get, if Fernandes pushes for a move, potentially the stronger West Ham’s negotiating position gets, so could the 21 year old soon swap the South Coast for the East End of London?
What Mateus Fernandes would bring to West Ham
Fernandes joined Sporting Clube de Portugal at the age of 12, and is the latest product of their academy forecast to go to the top.
He actually made just ten appearances for Sporting, his only goal in green and white hoops coming against Farense in the Taça da Liga group stages, spending the 2023/24 season on loan at fellow-Primeira Liga outfit Estoril Praia, before Southampton were convinced to sign him.
Analyst Ben Mattinson is certainly a fan, labelling him a “massive talent’, outlining that “passing” and “vision” are his key attributes, adding that he is a “solid ball-winner” and a “press-resistant midfielder”.
Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout agrees, asserting that he is a “big talent” who is definitely capable of remaining at Premier League level, while Kevin Araújo Fernandes of Breaking the Lines adds that he is ‘capable of covering ground with real intensity’, making him an ‘extremely talented’ all-round midfielder.
Ahead of Southampton’s visit to Old Trafford in January, Rúben Amorim, who was his manager at Sporting, described Fernandes as a “really good player” who is able to “overload the midfield” from wide areas, a skillset that should translate well to Potter’s West Ham team.
Nevertheless, the question remains: how does Fernandes compare to the Hammers’ other top midfield target Ramsey? Let’s find out.
Mateus Fernandes vs Jacob Ramsey 2024/25 comparison
Statistics
Fernandes
Ramsey
Appearances
42
45
Minutes
3,365
2,074
Goals
3
4
Assists
6
7
All statistics below are on a per-90 basis:
Shots
0.7
0.7
Shots on target %
63.64%
33.33%
Chances created
1.1
1.1
Big chances created
0.18
0.28
Passes attempted
38.2
31.5
Duels contested
12
9
Tackles
2.8
1.7
Clearances
1
0.5
Interceptions
0.9
0.5
Ball recoveries
5.6
4.6
Touches
59
46
Average SofaScore rating
6.95
6.87
Statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt, Squawka and SofaScore
Caveats required for both: Ramsey’s minutes were limited last season due to injury and lack of selection, while Fernandes was playing for one of the worst teams in Premier League history, with Southampton collecting an ignominious 12 points.
With that out the way, the Portuguese midfielder’s underlying statistics are almost universally more impressive across the board, ranging from passing and touches, to out-of-possession metrics, namely duels, tackles, ball recoveries and interceptions.
The fact Southampton struggled so much may directly correlate as to why Fernandes’ defensive metrics were so high but, with many forecasting a tough campaign for West Ham too, this could certainly be useful.
Thus, if the Hammers are able to secure the highly-rated Portuguese youngster for a reasonable fee, he would surely prove to be a shrewd addition.
Kudus replacement: Bellingham-esque £40m star is now West Ham's top target
West Ham need attacking difference makers, having sold Mohammed Kudus to Tottenham, hence why they’re chasing a £40m star “similar” to Bellingham.
Thomas Frank will be the latest Tottenham Hotspur boss tasked with the responsibility of making the club Premier League title challengers in 2025/26, after taking the reins following Ange Postecoglou’s dismissal.
Whilst only being in the role for a matter of weeks, he’s already seen the challenges he faces in the role, with the Dane already embroiled in a saga over the addition of Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White.
A deal for his signature appeared to all be in order, after the Lilywhites decided to pull the trigger and activate the £60m release clause within his deal at the City Ground.
However, this is Spurs we’re talking about, and nothing ever comes easy – resulting in a missed opportunity after the player remarkably signed a new deal, in a move spearheaded by Reds’ owner Evangelos Marinakis.
Being unable to land the star will undoubtedly leave a sour taste in the hierarchy’s mouth, but ultimately, the show goes on, with other targets now being considered to help strengthen the squad this summer.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer
In an attempt to forget about the failed move for Gibbs-White, the Spurs board have since turned their attention to a potential deal for Liverpool star Harvey Elliott.
It’s been reported that the Lilywhites have made an approach to the 22-year-old’s representatives over a move to North London, with Arne Slot’s side demanding £40m for his signature.
Harvey Elliott celebrates for Liverpool
However, he’s not the only Englishman currently on their radar, with want-away Manchester City star Jack Grealish another name being considered, according to GIVEMESPORT.
Their report claims that enquiries have already been made for the 29-year-old forward, who joined Pep Guardiola’s side for a then-English record £100m back in the summer of 2021.
The article also goes on to state that the player himself would be keen on a move to North London this summer, subsequently leading West Ham United in the race for his signature.
A move could cost £40m if previous reports are to be believed.
Why Spurs’ latest target would be a better signing than Gibbs-White
Given the addition of Mohammed Kudus already this summer, along with the offer for Gibbs-White, it’s evident the Spurs hierarchy are targeting Premier League-proven options for Frank’s side.
The Englishman has been key in Forest’s remarkable rise in England’s top-flight, notching 15 combined goals and assists last season, subsequently securing European football for the first time in 30 years.
Such a season saw him make his senior England international debut, making £60m an excellent deal had they managed to get it over the line before Marinakis’ intervention.
However, the Premier League is a ruthless division, with other sides able to completely bypass you if you rest on your laurels – something which the Lilywhites aren’t currently guilty of.
Their disappointment will be undeniable, but it could prove to be a blessing in disguise if they manage to pull off a deal for Grealish in the coming months.
There’s no denying his move to the Etihad has halted his progression; only starting seven league outings last season after falling down Guardiola’s pecking order.
However, he managed to outperform Gibbs-White in multiple key areas last season, handing Frank a proven winner and arguably a better option given his trophy collection and experience in major European competitions.
Games played
20
34
Goals & assists
2
15
Progressive carries
8.6
2.2
Progressive passes
6.5
5.2
Pass accuracy
88%
78%
Key passes made
3.1
1.6
Take-on success
45%
40%
Carries into opposition box
5.8
0.4
Crosses completed
2.5
1.4
Grealish, who has previously been dubbed a “monster” by Joe Cole, showcased his excellent ball-carrying ability last campaign, completing more progressive carries, with the vast majority being into the opposition’s box.
Such figures would massively bolster Frank’s side, as would the 29-year-old’s tally of key passes per 90, bettering Gibbs-White in such a department, able to provide a creative threat off the left or in central areas.
He also has the end product at the end of his mazy runs with the ball, completing more crosses per 90, having the talent to provide others in forward areas to improve their own goalscoring tallies.
It’s unclear whether a move for Grealish would be a temporary or permanent one this summer, but they could massively take advantage of his lack of game time with the Citizens.
Manchester City's JackGrealishon the substitutes bench
The former Villa star has showcased he’s still capable of outperforming a £60m star despite his lack of action, potentially playing a huge role in any success endured during the Frank era.
Their very own Rodrygo: Spurs preparing £28m bid to sign "Messi-esque" star
Tottenham Hotspur could forget about Rodrygo with a move for another young star.
Tottenham, in unprecedented circumstances, missed out on Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White, with the club now forced to move on to other transfer targets.
Tottenham advancing move for £24m defender after 'emerging' as favourites
Spurs have been told what it would take to get a deal done.
ByEmilio Galantini Jul 23, 2025
The announcement of Gibbs-White’s new contract dropped on Saturday evening, thwarting Thomas Frank’s hopes of bringing in a proven number 10 to inject some much-needed creativity – at least for now.
The England international was due to be another statement signing immediately after Tottenham’s £55 million deal for Mohammed Kudus, with chairman Daniel Levy and co booking Gibbs-White in for medical tests at Hotspur Way on July 11 (BBC).
Tottenham’s best-performing regulars in the Premier League – 2024/2025
Average match rating
Son Heung-min
7.00
James Maddison
6.98
Pedro Porro
6.95
Dominic Solanke
6.84
Dejan Kulusevski
6.83
via WhoScored
The Lilywhites were also ready to pay his £60 million release clause, but Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis put a stop to the transfer, threatened Spurs with legal action and somehow convinced Gibbs-White to pen a contract extension.
Gibbs-White praised Marinakis in an interview after the new deal was confirmed, with the Greek tycoon standing proudly next to him in what was seen as a bizarre move.
It is never straightforward when it comes to Tottenham, with Levy, technical director Johan Lange and the recruitment team wasting over a fortnight on their chase for Gibbs-White as just weeks remain of the summer window.
Their need for a new creator is emphasised by club legend Son Heung-min’s potential departure to the States.
Los Angeles FC are actively pursuing a deal for the South Korea international with an approach made, but the north Londoners are unlikely to sell before the end of their pre-season tour of Asia due to certain contractual obligations and his obvious commercial appeal in the Far East (The Telegraph).
There are reports that Levy is prepared to sanction Son’s move to LA for around £15-20 million, and another update has now come to light.
Son close to agreeing personal terms with LAFC over Tottenham exit
According to GiveMeSport, Son is now close to agreeing personal terms with LAFC, and the MLS side are eyeing a transfer towards the end of August.
The 33-year-old also has firm admirers in Saudi Arabia, who are prepared to pay £30 million plus add-ons, but it appears LAFC are taking the lead right now with talks “advancing”. That being said, Son has made no final decision on leaving just yet.
The £190,000-per-week winger is expected to hold crunch discussions with Frank over his future and role in the first team once they return to London, with Tottenham happy to keep Son and let him leave on a free transfer next year.
Levy won’t stand in the former Bayer Leverkusen star’s way if he does choose a move to LA, though, meaning Son’s future is entirely in his hands.
An exit would bring an end to Son’s incredible 10-year stay in N17, where he cemented himself as a club icon. Son is past the century mark in terms of both goals (173) and assists (101) since joining Spurs, with supporters facing the prospect of bidding an emotional farewell to the forward.
Robbie Keane called Son the most “underrated” player in Premier League history, and he could soon become the new star of LAFC’s project.
West Indies captain Hayley Matthews will return to Melbourne Renegades after the club secured her as a pre-draft signing on a one-year deal.Matthews joined amid much fanfare last season when taken as the third pick in the draft having produced some stunning performance for West Indies including her spectacular innings against Australia at North Sydney Oval.However, she struggled to replicate that with 255 runs at 19.61 and a strike-rate of 114.34 in a forgettable season for Renegades, who finished bottom with just two wins, although she did finish as their joint-leading wicket-taker with 14 at 27.64.Renegades’ prospects for the 2024-25 season will be boosted by the availability of Sophie Molineux after injury. Tayla Vlaeminck also missed the full campaign and is currently off contract.”We haven’t achieved what we’ve wanted to the last couple of years but with some key members back and some new additions cooking up as well, I’m confident we can go out there and put it all together,” Matthews said.Matthews is the fourth overseas player to be signed ahead of the WBBL draft following Amelia Kerr (Sydney Sixers), Nadine de Klerk (Brisbane Heat) and Marizanne Kapp (Melbourne Stars).Meanwhile, in domestic moves the two Sydney clubs have bolstered their pace attacks. Courtney Sippel, who is part of the Australia A squad to face India A next month, has signed a three-deal with Sixers to move from Heat while Taneale Peschel has moved to Thunder from Perth Scorchers.”At the Scorchers, I’ve been given…every opportunity, but I felt like I’d been stagnant for the last season or two,” Peschel said. “I always play the safe card and I’ve always stayed in WA and thought, okay, I’m still getting opportunity, I’ll stay here. I think just this year, something clicked.”I thought, I’ve got to try something else. I’ve got to stop playing a safe card. Who knows what something like a change to another team can offer my career.”Peschel, 29, was talked out of retirement earlier in her career by Lisa Keightley, the former Western Australia and Scorchers coach, who is now in charge of Thunder.”Taneale was playing club cricket, and she was the fastest bowler there, the best bowler there, and I just thought she had the potential to give it another crack at a higher level,” Keightley said.”Taneale is a highly skilled bowler and has pace that not many have. It’s what we are after to compliment our medium pacers. She has bowled at key times for the Scorchers, in the power play and at the death and done really well.”
Chauhan also broke the record for most sixes in a men’s T20I, hitting 18 in his 41-ball innings
ESPNcricinfo staff17-Jun-20246:06
Highlights: Sahil Chauhan breaks record for fastest T20I ton (Credit: FanCode)
Jan-Nicol Loftie Eaton’s record for the quickest T20I century, off just 33 balls, lasted less than four months as Sahil Chauhan, the Estonia batter, smashed a century off just 27 balls in a T20I against Cyprus on Monday.It was also the fastest century in all T20s, topping Chris Gayle’s 30-ball bash in IPL 2013. Along the way, Chauhan also got to the top of the table for most sixes – 18 – in a men’s T20I innings.Two matches were slotted on Monday’s opening day of the six-match bilateral series in Episkopi, and while Estonia won both, Chauhan’s time with the bat was as mixed as it could be. In the first game, the 32-year-old Chauhan was dismissed for a first-ball duck even as his team chased down Cyprus’ 195 for 7 in the last over.But he came into his own in the second game, which started not long after the first one got over. Batting first again, Cyprus scored 191 for 7. Estonia’s start was terrible, with both openers falling inside eight balls with just nine runs on the board.ESPNcricinfo LtdChauhan, however, took off straightaway, hitting 6, 4 and 6 in the first three legal deliveries he faced, from Buddika Mahesh. Stuart Hook, his partner, and Steffan Gooch fell soon after, leaving Estonia at 89 for 4 in the seventh over, but by that time, Chauhan was on 66 from 17 balls, with five fours and three sixes.The mayhem started in the previous over, the sixth of the chase, where Chauhan hit Mangala Gunasekara for four sixes and a four, getting to a 14-ball fifty in the process. This was not a record, though, which instead stands in the name of Dipendra Singh Airee (nine balls). There have also been two other quicker T20I half-centuries, including Yuvraj Singh’s 12-ball show against England in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007.Chauhan continued to deal in sixes, hitting four more off Chamal Sadun in the eighth over, and then hit three more in the next, off Neeraj Tiwari, the last one taking him to his century. The big hits continued, till Chauhan finished off the chase with a four off James Chialoufas off the last ball of the 13th over. Chauhan scored his runs at a scarcely believable strike rate of 351.21.For Estonia, Bilal Masud, Chauhan’s partner for the fifth wicket, was the second-highest scorer with an unbeaten 21.The corresponding record for women’s T20Is belongs to Deandra Dottin, the West Indies allrounder, who had got to the mark in just 38 balls in a game against South Africa in 2010.
It’s fair to say Manchester United fans won’t be looking back on the 2024/25 season with any degree of fondness.
A miserable tally of 18 losses in total in the Premier League would see Ruben Amorim’s dismal Red Devils have to make do with an unimpressive 15th spot in the division, whilst a heartbreaking Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur means United won’t even have the joyful distraction of European football to look forward to next campaign.
It’s a huge summer at Old Trafford, therefore, as Amorim attempts to steer the sinking ship back on course, with a whole host of transfer rumours beginning to bubble to the surface involving outgoings and incomings.
The most notable exit that could soon be on the cards is Bruno Fernandes ditching the Theatre of Dreams, with United perhaps having to sell their standout star so they can finance some top-drawer signings through the door.
Man Utd's search for a striker
Although the ex-Sporting boss remains in good spirits that the attacking midfielder could stay put amidst interest from Al-Hilal, it could well be that United’s hand is forced in this regard if they want to upgrade their striker personnel this summer.
Indeed, French outlet Foot Mercato have reported that United will have to get rid of Fernandes and/or Marcus Rashford to try and tempt Galatasaray goal machine Victor Osimhen to England, with his annual wage costs alone coming in at an eye-watering £10m. After all, the Portuguese ace does earn a sizeable £300k-per-week salary in the current camp.
Galatasaray's VictorOsimhencelebrates scoring a goal that was later disallowed
Therefore, the Premier League strugglers might well have to just bite the bullet and allow Fernandes to sadly depart, especially when you consider the Red Devils are crying out for a new, potent goalscorer away from the likes of a goal-shy Rasmus Hojlund.
That’s where the ex-Napoli man could come to the rescue, with Amorim potentially possessing his next Viktor Gyokeres very soon if his side can spectacularly purchase the “world class” – as he was once labelled by Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley – menace.
Why Osimhen could become Amorim's next Gyokeres
Before delving deeper into Osimhen’s own unerring ability in front of goal, it’s only right to look at how Amorim had an instrumental part to play in Gyokeres becoming an equally ice-cold finisher of chances in Lisbon.
The Stockholm-born striker would instantly hit the ground running under the 40-year-old’s stewardship in Portugal, with a bumper 43 strikes coming his way across a memorable debut season.
The former Coventry City marksman is now up to a stunning 97 goals from 102 total appearances for Sporting, and whilst there were murmurs Gyokeres could reunite with his former manager in England, a statement move hasn’t yet whirred into motion.
But, the under-fire Red Devils boss can begin to claw his way into the Old Trafford good books by landing Osimhen instead, considering the Nigerian’s explosiveness in front of goal out in Turkey and across his goal-laden career to date means he could be the manager’s next Gyokeres.
Games played
29
33
Goals scored
26
39
Assists
5
7
Shots*
4.7
4.2
Shots on target*
1.9
2.4
Goal conversion %
19%
28%
Big chances missed
25
23
Big chances created
11
11
Amazingly, Osimhen isn’t a million miles off his Swedish counterpart’s insane Liga Portugal goalscoring numbers, with the Galatasaray number 45 actually boasting 37 goals and seven assists from 41 games in all competitions this season, away from setting the Turkish top-flight alight.
Additionally, away from just twisting and turning Super Lig defences for fun, the 26-year-old target has also proven himself as a clinical threat on the books of Napoli and Lille previously, as seen in his 94 goals for both the Serie A and Ligue 1 titans.
Galatasaray's VictorOsimhencelebrates after the match
Therefore, whilst it might break United hearts to see Fernandes up and leave, it could well be a momentary, but necessary pain that then results in long-term success, particularly if Osmihen – who could be up for grabs for around £62m – enters the ranks and rips up yet another major league with his goalscoring prowess.
Better than Delap: Man Utd ready to pursue deal for "unplayable" £60m ace
Manchester United are reportedly ready to pursue a deal for this star who is even better than Liam Delap.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has suggested that he would like to extend his Everton contract, which is due to expire this summer, in comments which pertained to the excitement surrounding David Moyes’ budding project. BBC Sport report that a new deal is in the pipeline.
Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Injury-prone and inconsistent this season, some will feel the £100k-per-week star should depart, but keeping him on the books would lessen the urgency for a new number nine.
Thus allowing for signings across other areas, signing one new striker instead of two. It means Everton could move for their next Iliman Ndiaye, a player who has been nothing short of a revelation for the Toffees this term.
Iliman Ndiaye will be the key for Moyes
Ndiaye has proved this season that Everton do have the players to become a high-level attacking force while still being rooted in Moyes’ core defensive principles.
Everton star Iliman Ndiaye
Joining from Marseille in a deal worth £15m last summer, the Senegal international has scored nine goals across 34 Everton appearances, a shining light for Dyche and one of the driving forces behind the Moyes-led resurgence, scoring three in a row before being unfortunately injured in February’s Merseyside derby.
He’s quite the player, this 25-year-old left winger, all electric pace and frightening directness, with Sky Sports’ Jamie Redknapp hailing him for his “dynamite” ability earlier in the campaign.
Iliman Ndiaye – Premier League Stats (24/25)
Match Stats (* per game)
#
Matches (starts)
30 (27)
Goals
7
Assists
0
Shots (on target)*
1.1 (0.5)
Big chances missed
3
Pass completion
84%
Key passes*
0.6
Dribbles*
2.1
Tackles + interceptions*
2.2
Duels won*
5.5
Stats via Sofascore
It would take some beating to secure a signing capable of topping Ndiaye this summer, but The Friedkin Group are the harbingers of a new era, and they might just have their sights set on a real force.
Everton could seal their best signing since Ndiaye
Earlier this week, Football Insider revealed that Everton will explore the possibility of signing Gustavo Hamer from Sheffield United this summer, though a deal will likely hinge on whether the Blades qualify for the Premier League through the Championship play-offs.
Hamer, who last week was named the Championship’s Player of the Season, joined United from Coventry City in a £15m deal in 2023 and has since made 81 appearances, notching 29 goal contributions, with his technical quality and tireless work rate setting him apart from his positional rivals in England’s second tier.
This season, he’s been a fearsome presence off the left flank of Chris Wilder’s system, with journalist Ryan Dilks even going as far as to call him a “creative genius.”
Shifting beteen the left lane and a more central creative berth for his outfit this season, Hamer ranks among the top 20% of positional peers in the Championship for goal involvements, the top 6% for passes attempted, the top 1% for progressive passes and the top 4% for shot-creating actions per 90, as per FBref, underscoring his value as a high-class playmaker.
Given that he demonstrated his ability to thrive in England’s highest tier last year – and in an imperilled Blades team at that – by clinching ten goal contributions, creating 11 big chances and averaging 4.4 ball recoveries per game, as per Sofascore, there’s every chance that the 27-year-old could rival Ndiaye for that left-sided berth and potentially even elevate his game to the next level.
Gustavo Hamer for Sheffield United.
His playmaking prowess seems tailor-made for the success of a player like Ndiaye, and Calvert-Lewin, for that matter. It would be a fantastic signing and the perfect way for TFG to show to Moyes and the Blues fanbase that this new chapter could be one to remember.
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David Moyes is looking to overhaul his Everton squad this summer.