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Newcastle United find themselves in a delicate situation as the Premier League transfer window approaches its final weeks.

The Magpies are in urgent need of a striker to fill the void left by Alexander Isak, whose refusal to reintegrate with the squad has caused disruption ahead of the new season.

While the club has made several signings, including Anthony Elanga, Malick Thiaw, Aaron Ramsdale, a permanent solution in attack remains elusive.

Isak’s unsettled stance stems from an approach by Liverpool, and he has made it clear that he does not intend to train with Newcastle despite continuing to receive his reported £140k-per-week wages.

The side’s need for a replacement is immediate, although any potential new signing will not be available for their opening fixture against Aston Villa this Saturday.

Adding further complexity to Newcastle’s forward planning, the club recently missed out on Benjamin Sesko, who opted for Manchester United, while deals for other targets such as Yoane Wissa slowly edge towards completion.

This leaves Newcastle in a challenging position.

They must secure a striker capable of stepping into the squad and maintaining Premier League standards, without overpaying or rushing a decision.

Premier League striker keen on Newcastle switch

Enter a 24-year-old striker whose profile has drawn both excitement and cautious scrutiny.

Nicolas Jackson has emerged as a potential replacement, with his performances at Chelsea generating interest across Europe.

While there has been no formal bid from Newcastle yet, this “monster” of a player, as noted by John Obi Mikel, is reportedly ‘keen on a move’ to St James’ Park, as has been reported by Mark Douglas of the i.

Douglas notes that despite the striker’s willingness to move to Tyneside, the Magpies have yet to lodge a bid for the Blues exile.

If that deal does progress, the comparison to Anthony Gordon is unavoidable.

Transfer Focus

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

Gordon, who joined Newcastle from Everton in 2023 following an acrimonious exit, was initially considered a gamble by fans and pundits.

At the time, his record was respectable but not spectacular, with just seven goals scored at Goodison Park in all competitions.

However, since his move, Gordon has thrived under Eddie Howe, recording 22 goals and 23 assists in 106 appearances for the Magpies.

Jackson represents a similar gamble for Newcastle.

Like Gordon, he is young, somewhat untested, and carries a notable price tag – reportedly as much as £80m.

Yet the potential upside is significant, especially for a team seeking a clinical finisher to partner with the likes of Wissa this coming season.

Why Jackson could be another Gordon for Howe

To understand the potential for Jackson at Newcastle, it helps to examine Gordon’s trajectory.

At 24, Gordon’s profile mirrored Jackson’s in several ways: a relatively young player with talent but inconsistent performances at his previous club.

Gordon’s 2023/24 season was his breakthrough.

According to data from FBref, he produced 4.30 progressive carries per 90, 3.15 progressive passes per 90, and 4.45 shot-creating actions per 90.

He contributed significantly both in terms of attacking output and defensive work, registering 1.71 tackles and 0.84 blocks per 90.

Gordon’s touch volume in the attacking third (22.8 per 90) highlighted his influence in key areas, a benchmark Jackson may aim to emulate at Newcastle.

In 65 Premier League appearances for Chelsea, Jackson has scored 24 goals and contributed ten assists.

Notably, he was on the scoresheet in the Conference League final against Real Betis in May, underlining his capacity to perform on bigger stages.

While Jackson has demonstrated his attacking prowess, he has also attracted scrutiny for disciplinary issues, including red cards against Newcastle in a 2-0 defeat at St James’ Park and against Flamengo at the Club World Cup.

These incidents suggest an element of volatility, though they also reflect the intensity and commitment he brings to the pitch.

In terms of performance metrics, Jackson’s numbers, as per FBref, highlight a player capable of influencing games in multiple ways.

He averages 3.08 shots per 90 minutes, with 1.38 on target, translating to a 44.7% shot-on-target rate.

His progressive carries (1.90 per 90) and passes (1.54 per 90) are slightly lower than more creative forwards, but his shot-creating actions per 90 of 2.80 demonstrate his ability to generate opportunities.

Pass completion sits at a solid 75.9%, while his progressive passing distance per 90 of 35.8 meters shows an emerging ability to link play beyond the immediate attacking third.

Matches Played

30

Starts

28

Minutes Played

2,220

Goals

10

Assists

5

Shot on Target Percentage

44.7%

Pass Completion Rate

75.9%

Shot Creating Actions per 90

2.80

Tackles

22

Blocks

15

Yellow Cards

7

Red Cards

1

Gordon’s success underscores the potential payoff of taking calculated risks on younger forwards with room for growth.

Just as Gordon has adapted and flourished under Howe’s management, Jackson could follow a similar path, benefiting from clear guidance, consistent playing time, and the confidence of the coaching staff.

What’s more, Newcastle’s interest in Jackson comes at a pivotal time The club is navigating the financial pressures of PSR while managing high-profile departures and arrivals.

Securing a striker who can hit the ground running, and potentially blossom into a top Premier League talent, is a priority.

Jackson’s style, combining physical presence with technical flair, could offer Howe tactical flexibility.

If Newcastle can integrate him effectively, Jackson might not only replace Isak but provide a long-term solution in attack.

Of course, there are risks.

Yet the upside is clear: a young, talented forward with a proven scoring record in Europe and the mentality to succeed under the right management.

For Newcastle, the gamble may well be worth taking, just as it was with Gordon a year ago.

More of a bully than Isak: Newcastle set to submit bid for £70m "monster"

Newcastle United target Champions League striker following Alexander Isak saga

3 ByWill Miller Aug 14, 2025

Steven Gerrard could become a future star of ‘Welcome to Wrexham’, with Bryan Robson claiming that the opportunity to work with Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney “would interest” the Liverpool legend. Gerrard has been out of management since severing ties with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq in January, but is leaving himself open to enticing offers.

Change at Wrexham? Questions of Parkinson

There is no coaching role to be filled at Wrexham for now, with record-setting Phil Parkinson still at the Red Dragons’ helm. Questions are, however, being asked of his future following a testing start to the 2025-26 campaign.

AdvertisementGetty/GOALHollywood co-owners aiming for the Premier League

The ambitious Welsh outfit, who saw Hollywood co-owners help to fund another elaborate spending spree in the summer transfer window, have made no secret of their desire to reach the Premier League as quickly as possible.

Wrex appeal: Gerrard still a big draw

Many have suggested that a bigger name will be appointed in the dugout to help guide the club down that path, with ex-England captain Gerrard still a huge draw around the world. He may be of interest to Reynolds and Co if a vacancy opens up in North Wales.

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Getty/GOALRobson explains why Gerrard may fancy challenge

Another former England skipper, Manchester United legend Robson, has told of Gerrard returning to management in front of documentary cameras: “It's whether Stevie wants to get back into the game. I mean, he's had a good experience now in Saudi but you know a job like that would definitely interest him if he does want to go back into management.

“I think Wrexham at this moment of time should give Phil a bit more time because he has done a great job for them. Well, they've done fantastic to get where they are from where they were to get into the Championship in a short period of time. For me, if they can consolidate in the Championship, even if they finish mid-table, that would be a really good season from where they've come from.

“But yeah, the charisma that the U.S. lads have is fantastic, and the good thing about Wrexham, they've got a good fan base that’ll get right behind them so there’ll always be a good atmosphere within the stadium. Then with the sponsorship Ryan Reynolds has brought in too, that can only hold the club in good stead.”

Australian also expected to be available for County Championship window

ESPNcricinfo staff31-Jan-2025Lancashire have signed Australia allrounder Ashton Turner for the Vitality Blast group stage. Turner will also be available for Lancashire’s two County Championship fixtures at the end of June.Turner, 32, has been capped 28 times in in limited-overs internationals but his most recent appearance for Australia came in 2023. He spent the last three seasons playing county cricket for Durham, averaging 33.00 with a strike rate of 148.07 in the Blast, as well as making an unbeaten century in one of his two first-class outings.He also featured in the Hundred in 2022 and 2023, making 13 appearances for Manchester Originals, whose home ground is Emirates Old Trafford.”To have the opportunity to join one of the biggest county cricket clubs in England is a really exciting one for me,” Turner said. “Emirates Old Trafford is a stadium that I know well, following my two years with Manchester Originals – I am looking forward to making it home again this summer and pulling on the red rose for the first time.Related

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Yorkshire sign Sutherland for Blast and Championship stint

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“The Blast is a competition that I have loved playing in, while testing myself in the County Championship is something I have always wanted to do, so I can’t wait for that.”Turner will join fellow Australians Marcus Harris, who has signed a season-long deal, and Chris Green (T20 Blast), as well as West Indies quick Anderson Phillips (first 11 rounds of the Championship), in the overseas contingent at Old Trafford.Mark Chilton, Lancashire’s director of cricket performance, said: “We are really pleased to get the signing of Ashton over the line for the full group stage of the Vitality Blast, while he will also provide another high-quality overseas option for the County Championship matches throughout that period.”Ashton fits the role of a powerful middle-order player that we have been looking to add into our T20 side, who also provides another spin bowling option. He knows Emirates Old Trafford very well following his time with the Originals, which means he will feel at home with conditions right away.”From my conversations with Ashton, I got the impression that he was very keen to come and play for Lancashire. He is a strong leader who has captained Perth Scorchers for a number of the years in the Big Bash and his experiences around the world will serve our dressing room well.”

Everton manager David Moyes has responded to his opening-day defeat at the hands of newly-promoted Leeds United in the Premier League by striking a deal for a top transfer target.

Yes, a £40m deal has been agreed for Southampton’s Tyler Dibling, the 19-year-old attacking midfielder who has been described as a “world-class talent” by former Saints academy manager Andy Goldie.

It fixes a gaping hole on the Toffees’ attacking right flank, though there remains a desperate need for greater depth, if Moyes is to pull it all together and ensure his side challenge for a place at the higher end of the league table.

In particular, Everton need a right-back.

Everton pushing to sign new right-back

Everton released the 40-year-old Ashley Young at the end of his contract last season, retaining club legened Seamus Coleman. However, the skipper is into the twilight of his career, and so Jake O’Brien continued to deputise as a right-back at Elland Road.

Nathan Patterson, after all, was sidelined through injury once again.

O’Brien, 24, is a talented, tenacious defender, but he’s naturally a centre-back, and so it’s clear that Everton need to make a signing who could add a bit more dynamism and impetus to the side.

Well, according to Spanish outlet Sport, Barcelona are preparing for the departure of young prospect Hector Fort, with the 19-year-old at the centre of a loan approach from West Ham United.

The report continues to suggest that the Premier League is the likely destination for the up-and-comer and that other teams, such as Everton, remain in the running.

Just last summer, Barca rejected an offer north of £30m so it would not be a surprise if the Toffees had to pay big to secure his services.

What Hector Fort would bring to Everton

Fort, a versatile full-back, would join a list of players to have made the move from La Blaugrana to the blue half of Merseyside, but his ability to play across both flanks, his technical gifts and his ball-playing acumen suggest he could become Everton’s next version of cult hero Gerard Deulofeu.

Swiftly asserting himself as he joined Everton from Barcelona on loan for the 2013/14 season, Deulofeu notched eight goal contributions across 29 matches for the club, with the manager at the time, Roberto Martinez, going on to hail him as a “real diamond” of a player.

He spent two-and-a-half years at Goodison Park, all told, playing with a point to prove, and though he ebbed and flowed, none can contest the winger’s skilful style.

The same could be attributed to Fort, who, hailed for his “immense” talent by journalist Antonio Mango, would be determined to showcase his qualities and unleash some of his Catalonian flair on the Premier League, be that at right-back or on the left.

Right-back

43

2

1

Left-back

11

–

3

As per FBref, Fort ranks among the top 1% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues for pass completion, the top 2% for passes attempted, the top 26% for shot-creating actions and the top 14% for ball recoveries per 90.

In La Liga, he might have only featured 17 times last term, but he played his part in winning the title, with Sofascore recording that the teenage talent completed 92% of his passes and avoided making a single error, bespeaking his cultured style even at this stage of his career.

Fort would certainly present Everton with a welcome contrast on the right side of defence, and with a point to prove on a short-term deal, the Spaniard might even find himself enjoying the same success as Deulofeu when his 31-year-old compatriot was in his pomp.

And as a natural right-back, he would surely mark an upgrade on O’Brien too, allowing the Irishman to shift into his own natural berth and enrich the dynamism and fluency that Moyes is trying to achieve.

Better move than Grealish: Everton open talks to land Premier League star

Everton are interested in a deal to sign a star who could be even better than Jack Grealish.

ByWill Miller Aug 23, 2025

With seven goals conceded, one goal scored and no points on the board, it would be fair to say that West Ham United’s Premier League season has got off to just about the worst start possible.

Graham Potter’s side looked utterly hopeless on Friday night, were played through with ease and are in desperate need of some serious steel in the middle of the park, someone like Declan Rice.

While things didn’t always go his way in East London, the former Hammers captain was determination personified, and if he were still in the side, we do not doubt that the situation would be far better at present.

Fortunately, while the Englishman is plying his trade elsewhere in the capital, it now looks like West Ham are eyeing a late move for someone who could be their new Rice.

West Ham target their new Declan Rice

West Ham’s midfield situation was not great heading into the summer, and in recent weeks it has only got worse.

Transfer Focus

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

After a couple of rather uninspiring campaigns, Mexican international Edson Alvarez has left the club to join Fenerbahçe on a season-long loan with an option to buy.

The departure of the former Ajax star has left an already leggy-looking midfield in even greater need of reinforcement, specifically with younger, more energetic players.

Fortunately, the club seem to have realised the same thing, as they appear to have identified the perfect recruit, someone who could be their new Rice.

At least that is according to a recent report from Foot Mercato, which has claimed West Ham are still very interested in Soungoutou Magassa.

The report reaffirms previous claims that the Hammers made an offer of around €16m for the Frenchman, about £14m, but that Nottingham Forest have made an even better offer of €17m, about £15m, and that Atalanta are now interested as well.

It looks like the Irons are going to have something of a battle on their hands to land the AS Monaco ace, but he seems like he’d be worth it, especially as he could be their new Rice.

Why Magassa could be West Ham's new Rice

Now, while fans obviously shouldn’t expect Magassa to be on the same level as Rice to begin with, there are some apparent similarities between the two.

The first is that, like the former West Ham captain, the young Frenchman first started as an impressive centre-back, before slowly moving up the pitch and finding his best position at the base of midfield, as a six.

Therefore, if he does end up making the move to East London before the window slams shut next week, he’d be doing so to fill in where the Englishman thrived during his time at the club.

However, the similarities go deeper than just a position, as, just like the former Irons star, the tremendously “effortlessly” brilliant Monaco ace, as dubbed by respected analyst Ben Mattinson, is both a monstrous presence in the midfield and a technician with the ball.

We can clearly see these two parts of his game when examining some of his outstanding underlying numbers.

Dribblers Tackled

1.88

Top 1%

Ball Recoveries

7.59

Top 1%

Tackles (Mid 3rd)

1.81

Top 2%

Dribbles Challenged

3.62

Top 2%

Tkl+Int

5.22

Top 2%

Tackles

3.48

Top 3%

Interceptions

1.74

Top 4%

Passes Blocked

1.39

Top 6%

Switches

0.77

Top 7%

Through Balls

0.42

Top 10%

Blocks

1.74

Top 10%

Successful Take-Ons

1.11

Top 12%

Tackles (Def 3rd)

1.25

Top 14%

Touches (Mid 3rd)

42.70

Top 14%

Passes into Final Third

5.78

Top 18%

Tackles Won

1.60

Top 18%

For example, when it comes to the defensive side of the game, FBref ranks him in the top 1% of midfielders in Europe for ball recoveries, the top 2% for tackles plus interceptions and the top 6% for passes blocked per 90.

When it comes to his ability with the ball, he’s ranked in the top 7% of midfielders for switches, the top 10% for through balls and the top 12% for successful take-ons, also all per 90.

Finally, despite still being so young, Mattinson has described the midfielder as being “composed when under pressure” and someone who has a “forward-thinking mindset,” which sounds an awful lot like the former Hammers star.

Ultimately, West Ham need young and dynamic midfield reinforcements this summer, and even though he’s not reached his full potential just yet, Magassa looks like he’d be the perfect addition, especially as he could be the club’s next Rice.

New Soucek: West Ham submit £17.5m offer to sign "complete" CM

West Ham United could pick up their next Tomas Soucek by landing this £17.5m star.

2 ByKelan Sarson Aug 25, 2025

Atletico Madrid and UEFA will reportedly launch an investigation into the heated clashes that overshadowed Liverpool's 3-2 Champions League win at Anfield. Atletico boss Diego Simeone was shown a red card following a heated exchange with a Reds fan on Wednesday night after Virgil van Dijk's late winner. Now, a probe will look into an Atletico employee appearing to spit into the crowd.

UEFA to investigate Anfield spit-gate

Following Van Dijk's stoppage-time winner in their Champions League opener, Simeone was dismissed following a melee close to Atletico's bench. Footage appears to show one of his team spitting into the crowd, and now the Spanish side and UEFA will review this, with the latter potentially taking disciplinary action.

AdvertisementZiggo SportSimeone explains furious outburst

The Argentine said after the match: "It's never very good when we react as managers, is it? But if there are comments against racism or insults, we can get angry and fight back as well, managers. When they scored the third goal, he [the supporter] turned around and insulted me. When I turned around, I am a person and I'm human.

"I'm not going to get into the exact nature of the insults. I don't want to get involved with that. I have got to stay in my place. I know what went on behind the manager's bench. I can't solve society's problems in one press conference. I've got to live with it because it exists all over the place."

Atletico boss regrets actions against Liverpool

Simeone also said that he regretted clashing with Liverpool supporters after seeing his side coming from 2-0 down and then equalise, only to come away with nothing at the death.

The 55-year-old said: "Firstly, I regret the part I played. It's clear we are in a position where we do not have the right to react and it is not good when we react."

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AFPWhat next for Atletico and Liverpool?

It remains to be seen if Atletico, Simeone, or Liverpool fans will be punished for what transpired at Anfield this week. Next up, the Reds host bitter rivals Everton in the Premier League on Saturday in the latest edition of the Merseyside derby.

After Head hit a blazing fifty before lunch, the Khawaja-Smith pair stamped its authority on the day’s fortunes

Tristan Lavalette29-Jan-2025Stand-in captain Steven Smith scored his 10,000th Test run before completing the momentous occasion with a majestic century, while Usman Khawaja reached his 16th ton as Australia were rewarded for an aggressive approach against a spin-heavy Sri Lanka attack on a slow Galle surface.Australia finished the opening day of the series in a dominant position at 330 for 2 with rain ending play after 81.1 overs. Khawaja and Smith have combined for an unbroken third-wicket 195-run partnership to capitalise on the batting-friendly conditions in the perfect start for an Australian side striving for a first series victory in Sri Lanka since 2011.Having averaged 66 in 38 previous Tests as captain, Smith has clearly enjoyed taking the leadership reins with Pat Cummins on paternity leave. He was in sublime form after lunch and reached his half-century in 57 balls before showing patience in the final session as Sri Lanka talisman Prabath Jayasuriya resorted to a defensive leg stump line.As gloomy skies threatened, Smith regained his momentum to notch his 35th Test century. He raised his baggygreen in a reserved celebration with Smith having peeled off three tons in his last seven Test innings.Smith had started the match perched on 9999 runs after agonisingly falling short of the landmark in the fifth Test against India on his SCG home ground.Steven Smith got his third Test ton in Sri Lanka, becoming the most prolific to do so among Australia batters•Ishara S Kodikara/AFP via Getty ImagesBut Smith reached the milestone on his first delivery just before lunch with a flick to mid-on to join Ricky Ponting, Allan Border and Steve Waugh as the only Australians to achieve the milestone. He earned a strong ovation from his teammates and the jovial Australia fans in the terraces as he celebrated with a modest wave of the bat.He almost fell moments later when he offered a return catch to Jayasuriya, who spilt a chance low down to his right. But Smith was almost flawless after that as he donned his baggygreen cap and batted with authority. Much like openers Khawaja and Travis Head in the first session, Smith was quick on his feet and targeted the trio of spinners down the ground.Not having to face tormentor Jasprit Bumrah, Khawaja cut a relaxed figure and played with good intent to end a long drought having gone without a century since the opening Ashes Test in mid-2023.Related

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After a lean series against India, pressure had built on 38-year-old Khawaja but he repaid the faith by perfectly complementing the aggressiveness of Smith and Head, who justified his promotion up the order with 57 off 40 balls.Khawaja unfurled the reverse sweep to good effect and reached his century off 135 balls, celebrating by pumping his fists and taking off his helmet before waving his bat.Usman Khawaja ended his longest streak without a century with a first-day hundred in Galle•Robert Cianflone/Getty ImagesIt has been a torrid start to the two-Test series for Sri Lanka, who were particularly sloppy in the field and tardy with their reviews. They were left to rue numerous chances to dismiss Khawaja, including two dropped catches off the bowling of an increasingly flustered Jayasuriya, who destroyed Australia at the venue with a 12-wicket haul in his Test debut in 2022.Khawaja was also lucky on 74 when he edged Jayasuriya through to wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis, but Sri Lanka did not review the not out decision.Apart from a menacing spell before lunch by legspinner Jeffrey Vandersay, who turned the ball square having been a surprising inclusion, Sri Lanka’s bowlers were rattled and unable to rein in Australia’s scoring run until restorting to defensive tactics in the backend of the day’s play.But the damage had been done after Australia piled on 261 runs at a rate of 4.35 in the opening two sessions.Head set the tone after Smith had no hesitation to bat when the coin fell in his favour amid stifling humidity and a grassless surface. In a somewhat contentious move, Head moved up from No. 5 at the expense of 19-year-old Sam Konstas, who had made an eye-catching start to his Test career against India.The decision also allowed Josh Inglis, the Western Australia wicketkeeper and a noted player of spin, to make his Test debut at five as a specialist batter. But he’s not been needed so far.Having previously struggled as a middle-order batter in Sri Lanka, Head had success as an opener in India on the 2023 tour and he replicated that in a 92-run partnership with Khawaja. Head’s swift strike rate suggests belligerent batting straight out of the recently concluded Big Bash League, but he played smartly and mostly in orthodox fashion.Head raced to 23 off 13 and showed no mercy, but he did receive some luck on the last ball of quick Asitha Fernando’s opening three-over spell when he was rapped on the pads. Fernando had appealed vigorously, but Sri Lanka opted against reviewing although replays suggested the not out decision would have been overturned.Head reached his half-century off 35 balls, but fell shortly after when he tried to hit Jayasuriya over long-on but mis-hit to Dinesh Chandimal on the rope.The game turned – literally – with Vandersay producing sharp legspin from the get go. He ripped a Shane Warne-esque legbreak to beat Marnus Labuschagne all ends up on his first delivery, while Nishan Peiris had a huge lbw shout on the batter turned down with DRS upholding the decision.Labuschagne on 20 poked Vandersay to first slip as Sri Lanka ended the first session in better spirits. But their mood quickly soured on resumption when Smith smashed Jayasuriya straight down the ground for six and he scored with ease until Sri Lanka changed their tactics.Jayasuriya bowled four consecutive maidens either side of tea, aiming at a leg stump line as a patient Smith continually padded the ball away.The negative lines did lead to umpire Chris Gaffaney giving the Sri Lankans a talking to before the game received a much needed spark as Smith pounced on weary bowling to move into seventh spot on the list of most Test century makers.Sri Lanka took the second new ball but seven balls later rain intervened in a relief for the beleaguered home side.Australia selected a spin-heavy attack with offspinner Todd Murphy and left-armer Matthew Kuhnemann to complement frontliner Nathan Lyon.Mitchell Starc was the sole paceman named with allrounder Beau Webster capable of bowling seam and spin. Scott Boland unluckily was dropped after taking 10 wickets against India in the SCG Test.

Tottenham Hotspur love a deadline day signing under Daniel Levy and, well, they’ve made another one.

On Monday, Spurs completed the signing of striker Randal Kolo Muani, arriving on a season-long loan from Paris Saint-Germain, costing a €5m (around £4.3m) loan fee, with no option or obligation to buy included.

This certainly gives Thomas Frank plenty of choice when it comes to his centre-forward position, with Richarlison having started all four matches in that position so far, including the UEFA Super Cup, bagging a brace on the opening day of the Premier League season against Burnley.

That’s not to mention Dominic Solanke, who joined Spurs as recently as last summer for £65m, but has seen just 49 minutes of action so far this season, spread across three substitute appearances, although he remains a contender for serious minutes.

However, will Tottenham still rue selling one of the highest-scoring players in Europe since the start of last season, one that could have flourished in North London had he not moved on?

What Randal Kolo Muani will bring to Tottenham

Tottenham will become the fifth club Kolo Muani has represented in just six seasons, searching for a more permanent home.

His major breakthrough came at Nantes, scoring 12 Ligue goals in 2021/22 for the Canaries, earning a move to Eintracht Frankfurt, who snapped him up as a free agent.

Well, one season and 23 goals later, Kolo Muani joined Paris Saint-Germain in a deal worth, potentially, as much as £78m on deadline day of 2023, but this has not proved to be a shrewd investment from les Rouge-et-Bleu.

Never truly in Luis Enrique’s plans, the Frenchman scored just 11 goals in 54 PSG appearances, spending the second half of last season out on loan at Juventus, for whom he bagged a more than respectable ten goals in 22 outings, eight of which came in Serie A. He most recently scored a brace against Al Ain during the Club World Cup.

Now though, having scored goals in Ligue 1, the Bundesliga and Serie A, he’ll be looking to add the Premier League to this list, hoping to make his Tottenham debut against West Ham after the international break.

Well, perhaps Spurs would never have needed to sign Kolo Muani, had they not sold one of their best academy products of recent times.

Ex-Tottenham striker free-scoring in Europe

Having scored 17 goals in 15 appearances for the U18s, as well as nine goals in nine UEFA Youth League outings, there was plenty of excitement from within the Tottenham fan base about Troy Parrott, even before his senior debut in September 2019.

Nevertheless, despite being free-scoring at youth level, the Irishman made just four senior Spurs appearances, loaned out to Millwall, Ipswich, Milton Keynes and Preston, before exploding in the Netherlands.

During the 2023/24 season, on loan at Excelsior, Parrott scored a total of 17 Eredivisie goals, averaging a goal every 127 minutes, made all the more impressive by the fact that his team finished third-bottom, subsequently netting seven times during the play-offs, including four in the final, but this was in vain as the Rotterdam-based side were relegated, defeated 7-6 on aggregate by NAC Breda.

This though, caught the attention of bigger Dutch clubs, including AZ Alkmaar, who agreed to pay €8m (around £6.7m) to sign him permanently from Tottenham last summer.

Well, the Cheeseheads are certainly glad they made this decision, given that the Republic of Ireland international scored 20 goals last season, four of which came in the Europa League, on target against Elfsborg, Ferencváros, Galatasaray and Roma.

Well, Parrott has started this season absolutely on fire, netting ten times already, including seven in five Conference League qualifying outings, as well as a brace on the opening day of the Eredivisie season against Groningen.

The table below documents how prolific he has been since joining AZ.

Viktor Gyökeres

Sporting & Arsenal

56

Kylian Mbappé

Real Madrid

47

Harry Kane

Bayern Munich

47

Robert Lewandowski

Barcelona

42

Serhou Guirassy

Borussia Dortmund

42

Ousmane Dembélé

Paris Saint-Germain

37

Erling Braut Håland

Manchester City

37

Raphinha

Barcelona

35

Mohamed Salah

Liverpool

35

Sem Steijn

Twente & Feyennord

33

Vangelis Pavlidis

Benfica

33

Troy Parrott

AZ Alkmaar

30

As the table documents, Parrott is keeping quite illustrious company when it comes to players who’ve scored 30 or more goals across all competitions since the start of last season, with the Irishman skyrocketing up that leaderboard following his exploits last month.

For comparison, Kolo Muani has scored 12 goals during the same timeframe.

Former Tottenham midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has certainly been impressed by Parrott’s form in the Eredivisie, labelling him a “striker who actually has everything”, impressed by his “killer instinct” in front of goal.

Thus, the Republic of Ireland international could prove to be the one that got away for Spurs fans, even if they’ll be pleased to see him thriving over in the Netherlands.

Perfect for Kolo Muani: Spurs considering late move for £52m England gem

Tottenham Hotspur could be set to make another huge move before tonight’s 7pm deadline.

1 ByEthan Lamb Sep 1, 2025

Discussions have been held between SA’s premier and the Australian Football League to have the game played at Adelaide Oval in the week between football fixtures

Alex Malcolm09-Mar-2025South Australia’s dream of hosting the Sheffield Shield final at Adelaide Oval is one step closer to reality after they confirmed hosting rights thanks to a win over Victoria. Coach Ryan Harris said his side wants to play at the venue with it becoming a strong possibility as discussions have reached the state premier’s office amid a juggling act with the Australian Football League (AFL), which could see the dates of the decider shifted.South Australia will host their first Shield final since 2016 after locking up top spot on the table with an outstanding four-wicket win at the Junction Oval, after chasing down 300 in the fourth innings thanks to a superb unbeaten century from Jake Lehmann.Whispers that the final could be held at Adelaide Oval began to circulate after the win over Western Australia in Perth last month but nothing could happen officially until South Australia confirmed they would host the final.Related

South Australia prevented from hosting Shield final at Adelaide Oval

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Lehmann and Scott lead South Australia to home Shield final

The final is currently scheduled to run from March 26 to March 30. One major issue is that Adelaide Oval’s drop-in pitches have already been removed from the venue ahead of AFL club Adelaide Crows first home game on March 16. South Australia’s other AFL club, Port Adelaide, play their first home game at the venue on Saturday March 22.If the Shield final were to be staged at Adelaide Oval, it would need to be moved forward two days to be played between Monday March 24 and Friday March 28, sandwiched between weekend football fixtures with Crows playing at home again on March 30.It is understood that a single drop-in surface could be put in place after the AFL game on March 22 is completed. The pitch would have already been prepared elsewhere and would be ready for play on March 24 with the outfield cut to an acceptable level.”We’re in now. I think that was part of the step,” Harris told ESPNcricinfo after the win over Victoria on Sunday. “I’ve left that up to the people above me, but it’s gaining momentum, I believe.”I think there are a few small bridges to cross coming into this week. But I think now that the fact that it’s been confirmed that we’re in Adelaide I guess we’ll hear over the next couple of days, what goes on there.”But I mean we want to play there. We love it there. It might be a little bit different. The outfield might be a little bit slower, but when we play early games in September, October, it’s generally quite slow anyway, so I don’t think it’s going to be a lot different.South Australia have been the dominant team of the season•Getty Images”But ultimately if we can get out there, it’d be great. But obviously, we understand as well the agreement football have. But as far as I know, the conversations have been really positive so we’ll wait and see over the next couple of days.”A Shield final has not been hosted at Adelaide Oval since 1996 with South Australia’s last home final played at Glenelg Oval. The encroachment of the AFL season into March over the last 15 years has meant venues that host both first-class cricket and Australian Rules Football such as the Adelaide Oval, the MCG, the SCG, the Gabba and Perth Stadium have been unavailable to host Shield finals due to football being prioritised once the winter code begins it’s season.A Shield final has not been played at any of those venues since 2012 when Queensland hosted the final at the Gabba. Since then Victoria has hosted finals at Alice Springs and Hobart while New South Wales hosted a final in Canberra before Junction Oval and Cricket Central became viable grounds. Queensland host two finals at Allan Border Field in recent years.South Australia premier Peter Malinauskas has even got involved and has already spoken to the local AFL clubs about the issue.”This issue has been drawn to my attention, I did spend a bit of time on the weekend making a few calls,” Malinauskas told ABC radio last week. “I’m pretty optimistic that with some hard-headed reason, there’s a compromise to be had here that would allow it to be played at Adelaide Oval.”But everyone is going to have to give a little bit. There’s a whole bunch of moving parts to this, but after the calls I’ve made, I’m pretty optimistic we’re going to get the right outcome if wiser heads prevail. I think the Crows have an appetite for pragmatism here, and that is to their great credit. The AFL’s got a role to play.”South Australia’s final Shield game of the home and away season starts on Saturday March 15 but it was already scheduled to be played at Karen Rolton Oval.The AFL are receptive to allowing the final to be played in between weekend football games with AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon saying that the league was open to co-operating.”Like we do with other sports where we have a scheduling clash, we’re fortunate to play in the best stadiums in Australia across all of our capital cities and we know those stadiums get built and operate because they are multi-sport,” Dillon said at a press conference on last week. “So if it can be accommodated within our schedule, we absolutely would look at that.”Playing the final at Adelaide Oval would shorten the turnaround from the last regular-season round from seven days to five for whichever travelling team qualifies. Queensland, Western Australia, New South Wales and Victoria all still a chance depending on the results of the final round.Lehmann, Alex Carey and Travis Head are the only current South Australian players who played in their last Shield final. Lehmann, whose father Darren played in the state’s triumph at Adelaide Oval in 1996, said he would love to play the decider at the ground.”If that arises, that’d be awesome, because I think the last time we played in the Shield final at home was at Glenelg,” Lehmann said. “We actually got a pretty good crowd there, and it was good. But also, I love Adelaide Oval. I think it’s the best stadium in the world. You know, it just produces good wicket good cricket wicket, great stadium. so I’d love to be able to do that.”Meanwhile, Harris confirmed that Carey will be available for both South Australia’s final Shield game of the season against Queensland and the final.”As far as I know, he’s back next week, and for the final now,” Harris said. “That’s huge. Getting a player who’s playing pretty well at the moment. I watched his innings the other night in the Champions Trophy, I don’t think I’ve seen him bat as good as that.”But Head is not going to be around. Having captained South Australia in their last two Shield finals, Head is committed to playing in the IPL for Sunrisers Hyderabad and their first game is on March 23. Jake Fraser-McGurk and Spencer Johnson, who both played Shield games this season for South Australia, are also IPL bound.”All fine with that,” Harris said. “That’s what they want to do. I think they’re probably having a bit of FOMO now and would want to be here. But that’s alright.”

Mikel Arteta revealed why he substituted Bukayo Saka against Port Vale as the Arsenal star suffered a fresh injury scare during the Carabao Cup win. The Gunners marched into the next round of the domestic cup competition with a late 2–0 victory over their lower-league opposition, but the sight of the England international hobbling after a bruising challenge left fans concerned.

Gunners win but hearts skip a beat

The Gunners got off to the perfect start with new signing Eberechi Eze bagging his maiden strike for the club just eight minutes in. Despite dominating possession, Arsenal struggled to kill the game off until the dying minutes, when the contest was finally sealed with a goal from Leandro Trossard in the 86th minute. Saka looked sharp on the flank, linking up well in attack, but the big talking point came when he crumpled under a heavy challenge shortly after the restart. After some treatment, he continued, but Arteta wasted little time in taking him off. 

AdvertisementGetty Images SportAnother injury setback for Saka?

Saka, only just back from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for three matches, looked in pain before being replaced on 63 minutes with 15-year-old prodigy Max Dowman. However, after the match, Arteta reassured fans that his talisman had not suffered a fresh blow and the plan had always been to give Saka just an hour on the pitch as part of his careful comeback programme.

Arteta calms the panic

Speaking on Saka to Arteta said: "Yeah, it was always the plan. The maximum we wanted him to play was 60 minutes; there is a lot of games coming up. He is coming back from an important injury, and again we need to manage his load. He will be around for the weekend, yes."

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Injury room still crowded

While Arteta can breathe easier over Saka, the treatment table at London Colney remains crowded. William Saliba featured for the second time in a week after recovering from an ankle knock, while Martin Odegaard continues his rehabilitation from a shoulder injury. Adding to the woes, Noni Madueke, who arrived from Chelsea to bolster the wide options, has now been ruled out for up to two months with a knee issue. That absence stretches Arsenal’s resources at a time when the fixtures are piling up.