With Norwich City clearly eager to go one better than last season's Championship playoff loss, they may be dealt an early blow with one of their star players attracting interest from a Europa League side.

Norwich look to put playoff heartbreak behind them

Following their playoff disappointment, Norwich City have wasted no time getting their team ready to try and go one step further next season. The Canaries' recent retained list has seen a number of out of favour stars shown the door at Carrow Road, freeing up space for new talents.

Danny Batth

Ben Gibson

Dimitris Giannoulis

Sam McCallum

Jon McCracken

Sydney van Hooijdonk (returning to Bologna after loan)

The big changes at Norwich have also a fresh face arrive in the dugout. Following David Wagner's almost immediate dismissal following the playoff defeat, the Canaries moved quickly to appoint Johannes Hoff Thorup. The former Nordsjælland manager signed a three-year deal with the club back in May allowing Norwich to avoid the chaotic rush to find a coach seen at other Championship clubs.

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ByDan Emery Jun 15, 2024

With the manager situation sorted, Norwich can look towards the transfer window, with a Turkish side submitting an offer for one of the Canaries' star players.

Trabzonspor make swoop for Canaries star

As first reported by Sport Witness, the Turkish press have stated that Trabzonspor have made an opening offer for Norwich City midfielder Marcelino Nunez. Whilst the size of the bid is not clear, the outlet states that the Chilean is valued at a little over £4 million, with the Turkish outfit looking to strengthen ahead of a season in Europa League football thanks to their third place finish in the Super Lig.

The midfielder has been a vital part of Norwich's side this season as the Canaries made it to the playoffs but ultimately fell short over two legs against Leeds United. During the season, Nunez featured 36 times, contributing two goals and three assists in the process.

Nunez is a midfielder that excels with the ball at his feet. The 24-year-old ranks in the 97th percentile for shots taken and 91st percentile for passes attempted when compared to midfielders in similar competitions.

The Chilean has been quick to make himself a fan favourite at Carrow Road since arriving from CD Universidad Católica in 2022. Back in March, his former boss David Wagner was quick to sing the praises of the midfielder, telling the press: "What he has improved very, very much is his ball possession. He very rarely makes unforced errors, he's very reliable on the ball.

"Obviously because he has such good legs he is always in and around a challenge on the pitch. He is a lion, he is a fighter, he really goes for every challenge, even if he's only [very short].

"But the biggest progression he's made has been in being reliable in ball possession. All the other stuff was always there."

Considering that Nunez is currently under contract until 2026, there is no pressure on the Norwich side to sell the player this summer. Despite this, if Trabzonspor put in a bid that exceeds the midfielder's valuation they may have no choice but to accept this offer.

Nottingham Forest have a huge summer ahead of them to avoid any further breach of the Premier League’s PSR rules whilst improving their squad to maintain their top-flight status.

Nuno Espírito Santo’s side endured a tricky second half of the 2023/24 campaign, especially considering a four-point deduction which plunged them into fresh relegation woes.

With the summer transfer window now open, the club will undoubtedly need to bolster their ranks if they are to build on the end of the season which saw Nuno’s side win two of their last three matches.

However, given their financial troubles, they may have to sell multiple players to cut the wage bill and give themselves a huge chance of avoiding a second PSR punishment in as many seasons.

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ByStephan Georgiou Apr 16, 2024

One player in particular must be sold, especially considering his lack of impact since his move to the East Midlands last summer.

Odysseas Vlachodimos’ stats at Forest in 2023/24

After arriving in Nottingham following a £7.7m move from Portuguese side Benfica, goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos had ambitions of becoming the club's number one despite the addition of Matt Turner just a couple of weeks prior.

The 30-year-old, who is Greece's number one, had to bide his time before making his debut for the club, failing to make a single appearance until the 2-0 win over Aston Villa in November.

His clean sheet against Unai Emery's side is his only during his time in the Premier League, with his game time decreasing massively since the turn of the year.

Vlachodimos has only featured twice under Nuno, with both starts coming in the FA Cup against Blackpool. Insteaad, January addition Matz Sels started every Premier League match after his move to the City Ground.

The former Benfica shot-stopper has since become the third choice behind Sels and Turner, failing to appear in a single matchday squad since the 2-1 defeat against Arsenal in January.

A summer move must be on the cards for the 30-year-old, with the club needing to shift his hefty wages to avoid another punishment from the Premier League for breaking their PSR rules.

Games

17

16

5

Clean sheets

2

1

1

Goals conceded

28

27

12

Save percentage

66%

59%

46%

Pass accuracy

64%

65%

79%

How much Odysseas Vlachodimos earns at Forest

A recent report from Football Insider claims that the Reds are willing to part ways with the shot-stopper this summer, hardly a surprise given his hefty wages at the City Ground.

The goalkeeper signed a four-year deal upon his move to the East Midlands, on a reported £45k-per-week, as per Capology – a huge figure given his lack of impact on Trentside.

His weekly wage of £45k-per-week sees the Greece international take home £2.3m a season, with the club needing to cut such a figure off the bill this summer.

Vlachodimos’ subsequent wage sees him earn nearly two times more than attacker Anthony Elanga, who only earns a reported £25k-per-week, despite his stellar first campaign at the City Ground which saw him register 14 goal contributions.

Whilst at the time it was seen as a brilliant piece of business signing a player of his calibre, it has, unfortunately for both parties, been a complete disaster.

Given his experience in Portugal and internationally, he certainly won’t be short of interest, with the Reds needing to cash in as soon as possible to avoid missing the June 30th PSR deadline.

What Forest's starting XI could look like after £77m spending spree

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ByEthan Lamb Jun 16, 2024

The 2023/24 Premier League campaign has been a tricky one for Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United side, with injuries plaguing his side for the vast majority of the season.

Bruno Guimaraes has often been the man to rely on in the middle of the park but has often been partnered by numerous different teammates throughout the season due to various injuries and suspensions.

Fellow Brazilian Joelinton has struggled with a thigh issue that ruled him out for numerous months, disrupting his progress alongside his compatriot in the Magpies' midfield.

Sandro Tonali has barely made an impact following his big-money move to Tyneside last summer following a 10-month suspension for breaking betting rules during his time at AC Milan in Italy.

He only featured eight times before his subsequent suspension back in October, with Howe having to rely on young prospects such as Elliot Anderson and Lewis Miley to provide numbers in the middle of the park for his side.

However, the upcoming transfer window gives the club the opportunity to strengthen their midfield, with the Magpies still targeting one player who has previously disappointed during his relatively short stint in England’s top-flight.

Newcastle targeting former Arsenal man to bolster their midfield

According to TEAMtalk, Newcastle are attempting to hijack Aston Villa's attempts to sign former Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi this summer.

The 25-year-old has played for Lazio in Serie A this season, featuring 46 times, scoring on three occasions from central midfield. However, despite only being on loan at the Italian side during the 2023/24 campaign, the deal included an option to buy, which Lazio decided to take up, but he is expected to leave following a fallout towards the end of the season.

Although Villa remain ahead in the race, with boss Unai Emery wanting to be reunited with his former player, the Magpies have seemingly lodged an enquiry after requesting more information on the Frenchman – as per the report.

It’s been stated that Lazio are holding out for a least €30m (£25m) for his signature, with Howe’s side needing to pursue a move for the former Gunner to allow one Newcastle player to reach the next level and become unstoppable.

Why Guendouzi would allow Guimaraes to become unstoppable

With Newcastle's various issues in midfield, Guimaraes has often had to play in a deeper role than usual to provide cover and allow players such as Sean Longstaff and Anderson to go and create carnage in the final third.

However, despite playing in a deeper position under Howe in 2023/24, the Brazilian managed to achieve a tally of seven goals and eight assists in the Premier League – a fantastic return for a player who has mainly been tasked with defensive duties.

The 26-year-old averages 1.3 shots per 90 and averages 0.4 goals or assists per 90, as per FBref, for the Magpies in the Premier League this season, demonstrating his qualities when in attacking positions.

Games

37

Goals + Assists

15

Goals + Assists per 90

0.4

Shots per 90

1.3

Take-on success

55%

Goals per shot on target

0.4

Guendouzi’s potential arrival could allow the Brazilian to operate in a more advanced position, further bolstering his already impressive stats in the attacking third.

The “monster” Frenchman, as described by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has won 34 tackles and 21 interceptions in Serie A during 2023/24, demonstrating his ability to regain possession for his side.

However, he’s also able to progress the play and play forward upon winning the ball, completing 121 progressive passes at a completion rate of 83% last season.

Finances may be difficult at St James’ Park, but his talent is evident from his statistics from this season, with Newcastle needing to pursue a move for his signature.

Whilst Aston Villa may have the advantage of Champions League football in 2024/25, the project being built by the Saudi PIF is an exciting proposition for the former Arsenal man, in a deal which could be very similar to that of Guimaraes, who joined Newcastle when they were out of any form of European competition.

Newcastle make approach for "phenomenal" £30m titan who's Gibbs-White 2.0

The Magpies are still looking to bolster their midfield ahead of next season.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 6, 2024

MatériaMais Notícias

O futebol, esporte mais popular do mundo, adorado por cerca 3,5 bilhões de pessoas, segundo a FIFA, é também o carro-chefe das casas de apostas esportivas ao redor do planeta. Mas a variedade de modalidades esportivas à disposição dos apostadores impressiona.

O Lance! preparou uma lista com alguns dos esportes mais inusitados que você pode fazer uma aposta na KTO.com. Confira:

Pesapallo: Conhecido também como beisebol finlandês não é um esporte mundialmente difundido, sendo restritos a países com comunidades de origem finlandesa, como os da Escandinávia, Alemanha, Japão, Reino Unido, Nova Zelândia, Canadá, entre outros. É um esporte centenário, tendo sido jogado pela primeira vez em 1920.

Tal como no beisebol tradicional, a ideia é que o rebatedor acerte a bola lançada por um arremessador e a mande o mais longe possível, permitindo que o próprio rebatedor e demais companheiros de time percorram as bases e anotem pontos. Uma das principais diferenças entre Pesapallo e o beisebol tradicional é que os arremessos são feitos verticalmente, o que torna o ato de rebater muito mais fácil no Pesapallo.

RelacionadasFutebol AmericanoBrasileiros terão chance de embolsar R$ 100 mil com aposta de apenas R$1 neste final de semanaFutebol Americano02/09/2021Futebol AmericanoOdds turbinadas em apostas combinadas no US OpenFutebol Americano01/09/2021Futebol AmericanoGigantes europeus em campo nesta quinta pelas Eliminatórias da Copa do MundoFutebol Americano01/09/2021

Pesapallo, often called Finland's national game, is similar to baseball. But watch, and you'll see the difference. https://t.co/gNmcOuCA1T pic.twitter.com/aXeuAWP8MG

— New York Times Video (@nytvideo) September 26, 2016

Críquete: Segundo esporte mais adorado do mundo, com 3 bilhões de fãs ao redor do mundo, devido sobretudo ao fato de ser o mais popular da Índia, segundo país mais populoso do planeta. O críquete é um ilustre desconhecido em quase todo ocidente.

Também semelhante ao beisebol, um rebatedor tenta rebater a bola o mais distante possível e, assim, anotar pontos para sua equipe.

We have lost both of our openers early.

Scorecard/Clips: https://t.co/Kh5KyTSOMS

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 #ENGvIND 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/iW4LdNKiuu

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 2, 2021

Dardos: Nada desconhecido, porém bastante incomum. Quando você imaginaria que aquela brincadeira de bar ou presente na infância poderia ser um esporte ao redor do mundo, com competições organizadas, campeonato mundial e, até mesmo, possibilidade de apostas?

𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐔𝐋𝐓 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Gary Stone makes it six straight wins as he denies Martin Heneghan in a decider with a 96 average! @DartsLiveLeague | #ODLiveLeaguepic.twitter.com/QsSS76JvK7

— MODUS Sports (@ModusDarts180) September 1, 2021

Biatlo: Popular em países com neve e invernos mais rigorosos, o biatlo é a mistura de uma ‘corrida de esqui por longas distâncias’ com a habilidade no tiro. O biatlo é dividido em várias subcategorias, como o sprint, estafetas e o individual – o mais popular. Neste último, as mulheres esquiam por 15km e, durante o percurso, há quatro estandes de tiros, dois deitados e dois em pé. Já os homens esquiam por 20km. Vale lembrar que para cada erro nos tiros o tempo do competidor sofre um acréscimo de um minuto em seu tempo como penalidade.

The Men's Relay Biathlon start in rather tricky conditions, as some snow final arrived. #Biathlon #BritishArmySport #chiemgau #ArmyWinterSports pic.twitter.com/PzRun3PQp9

— British Army Sport (@ArmySportASCB) February 6, 2020

علق محمد مصيلحي رئيس نادي الاتحاد السكندري على أداء فريق الكرة ببطولة الدوري المصري، موضحًا موقفه من الاستمرار في منصب رئيس القلعة الخضراء بالفترة المقبلة.

وقال محمد مصيلحي في تصريحات تلفزيونية عبر قناة اون تايم سبورتس: “نحن في الأسبوع الخامس من الدوري المصري، لعبنا 5 مباريات فزنا في إثنين وتعادلنا مع الأهلي”.

وتابع: “الاتحاد السكندري تعرض للخسارة أمام طلائع الجيش في الدقيقة الأخيرة ثم تعادلنا مع غزل المحلة في المحلة، وأرى أن هذه النتائج معقولة، ومثلنا مثل سيراميكا وزد وبيراميدز رغم فارق الإمكانيات المادية”.

واستطرد: “لكن مازال الوقت طويلا على الدوري، وبابا فاسيليو يُقدم مستوى جيد مع الفريق رغم الإصابات الصعبة التي يعاني منها الفريق”.

وحول الفوز على الأهلي في نهائي دوري المرتبط لكرة السلة، أجاب: “منذ أقل من شهرين حصلنا على السوبر البحريني، فريق السلة يسير بشكل جيد، والجهاز الفني يبذل مجهودًا رائعًا ولدينا لاعبين كبار، وأتمنى بطولة المرتبط هذا الموسم تكون بداية قوية”.

طالع | الاتحاد السكندري يفوز على الأهلي في ذهاب نهائي دوري المرتبط لكرة السلة

وبسؤاله هل ستكون مستمرا مع الاتحاد السكندري؟، أوضح: “كل شيء في وقته، هناك لائحة وأنا أحترمها، أنا منذ 7 سنوات وشهرين في رئاسة النادي، والإنجاز الذي تحقق صعب، أدينا أداءً جيدَا ومجهود صعب، والتاريخ سيذكر هذا الأمر”.

وأضاف: “ما يحدث في الاتحاد السكندري بكم الألعاب التي فيه يعد إعجازًا، لا أحد يتخيل المجهود الذي بُذل، واستنزف قدرات صحية ومالية ومعنوية وضغوطات”.

واختتم: “أحترم لائحة النادي التي تقضي بعدم الترشح على منصب الرئيس بعد فترتين، وحتى لو تدخلت الجمعية العمومية لتعديل اللائحة، فقراري النهائي هو أن هذه الدورة هي الأخيرة لي”.

So far so good for Glasgow Rangers this summer. Not only has Philippe Clement recruited a few players prior to pre-season, but he has recruited well at Ibrox.

Jefte, Connor Barron and Oscar Cortes are all aged 22 or under, and it looks like there will be more to come for Rangers in the next few weeks.

Striker Hamza Igamane appears to be close to a move, while players such as Callum O’Hare and Reuell Walters are other talented individuals who have been linked with a move north of the border to join Clement’s revolution.

This transfer strategy – one which sees the Gers manager forming the bulk of his squad with promising youngsters – may be a gamble, but it is one the 50-year-old has to take, otherwise he could end up like his predecessors.

Michael Beale and Giovanni van Bronckhorst both spent lavish sums of money on a host of players who failed to light up Ibrox. Both were sacked as a result after just ten and 12 months respectively.

Thankfully, the Belgian has taken a different route and there is a new name being linked with a move to the Scottish side…

Rangers make enquiry about former Premier League defender

The Light Blues are hardly blessed with a transfer war chest, which suggests Clement has to be smart about the signings he wishes to make ahead of the new season.

While some funds will be spent – depending on how much is raised via sales – plenty of his business will be loans or free transfers.

One name to have cropped up recently is Ryan Sessegnon, with Rangers reportedly looking at bringing the former Tottenham Hotspur gem to Scotland this summer.

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, West Ham United have made contact with the player in a bid to keep him in England next season.

They aren’t the only ones who wish to sign Sessegnon, however, as Rangers are also mentioned as a club who have made an enquiry about whether he'd like to join.

Indeed, other sides such as Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, Real Betis, Monza and Atalanta are showing plenty of interest, which suggests Clement will have plenty of competition to fend off.

Players to have joined Rangers for free since the summer of 2021

Player

Previous club

Year

Dujon Sterling

Chelsea

2023

Leon Balogun

QPR

2023

Kieran Dowell

Norwich City

2023

Jack Butland

Crystal Palace

2023

John Souttar

Hearts

2022

Tom Lawrence

Derby County

2022

Fashion Sakala

KV Oostende

2021

John Lundstram

Sheffield United

2021

Nnamdi Ofoborh

Bournemouth

2021

Via Transfermarkt

There is no doubting his talent, but the Englishman hasn’t exactly enjoyed the best of times recently due to suffering from a succession of injuries.

Ordinarily, Clement should avoid moves like this, especially as it seems to sum up the club’s transfer market over the previous few years.

In Sessegnon, however, Clement could potentially get the best out of him should he decide to move to the Gers.

What Ryan Sessegnon could offer Rangers

The 24-year-old burst onto the scene with Fulham during the 2016/17 campaign when he was just 16, making a total of 30 appearances, scoring seven times and grabbing four assists in the process.

After a couple of years in the Fulham first team, Sessegnon’s displays were certainly going a long way to helping him reach the very top of the game.

In 2018, he was even compared to Gareth Bale after his ability to burst down the left flank in order to cause havoc in the final third.

After 120 games for the Cottagers across just three seasons, which featured 25 goals and 18 assists, Spurs signed him for £25m, which was looked upon as somewhat of a bargain considering how much they could potentially sell him for down the line.

Slavisa Jokanovic, his former manager at Fulham, once dubbed Sessegnon as “special” but his spell in North London was anything but.

Indeed, over five years, he made only 57 appearances, scoring just three goals as injuries hit him hard.

If Clement can get him back to the sort of form he displayed for Fulham between 2016 and 2019, then he could be a wonderful signing, but it is a big if.

Not only that, but he could form a stunning partnership with Oscar Cortes down the left wing.

Oscar Cortes’ statistics for Rangers last season

The young Colombian signed on a six-month loan back in January from RC Lens in a bid to gain some regular game time after a tough start to life in France.

He made just four appearances for the Ligue 1 side, yet managed to score and grab an assist, showing massive potential.

During the early stages of his Ibrox spell, Cortes shone when called upon on the left flank, scoring once and chipping in with two assists before an injury against Kilmarnock in February ruled him out for the season.

In just six games, the 20-year-old created a big chance, averaged 1.2 key passes and 1.7 shots on goal per game, showing his attacking intent.

Now, imagine if a player like Sessegnon was playing just behind him, linking up with the Colombian winger down the left side of the pitch. The duo could cause havoc.

During his final season in the Championship for Fulham, Sessegnon registered six assists, created 11 big chances and averaged 1.2 key passes per game.

Adding in the fact he succeeded with 1.2 dribbles, it becomes clear that if Clement can bring him back to his best, the Englishman could be a superb signing.

It won't be easy, especially considering the problems the former Fulham gem has endured recently, but managing to secure his signature on a free transfer would allow the manager to keep his precious transfer funds for other targets.

There is no doubt he will demand a decent wage to swap England for Scotland, yet for the chance to win trophies and play in Europe, it could be a move that breathes new life into a career which has gone from promising to stagnant in a blink of an eye.

Much will depend on how much of a gamble Clement is preparing to take on Sessegnon. Plenty of players from down south have arrived at the club and struggled, failing to make much of an impact.

The 24-year-old could be different. That is if he can stay fit and healthy.

Related Imagine him & Barron: Rangers ready to move for "irreplaceble" star

The Light Blues are reportedly keen on a deal to sign the Scotland international.

Posts ByDan Emery Jun 25, 2024

Newcastle United enjoyed another successful campaign in front of goal, with the club scoring the fourth-most goals in the Premier League during 2023/24.

However, the club failed to secure a second successive season of European football, finishing seventh, three places lower than the season prior in the Premier League.

The defensive department has prevented the Magpies from any further success, with numerous different injury problems seeing Eddie Howe's side conceding 29 more goals in the league than they managed in 2022/23.

Newcastle's forward line undoubtedly saved the Magpies from a disastrous campaign, with striker Alexander Isak single-handedly keeping the club within arm's length of a European spot, scoring 21 times in 30 Premier League outings over the course of the season.

Despite the Swede’s excellent performances for the Magpies, Howe’s side are still on the hunt for more attacking reinforcements, including one player who has previously excelled during a stint in England’s top flight.

Newcastle submit bid for former Premier League star

According to Jijantes FC, Newcastle have submitted a bid in the region of £17m including add-ons for Barcelona forward Ferran Torres who could be set to leave the Catalan giants this summer.

The 24-year-old has scored seven goals in his 29 LaLiga appearances this season, with his goalscoring exploits potentially able to complete the Magpies’ frontline in 2024/25.

As also relayed by Sport Witness, Barcelona are keen on offloading Torres who cost the Catalan club €55m (£46m) back in 2021, but it’s unclear whether the player himself would be keen on a move to Tyneside.

Barca desperately need to raise funds this summer to help combat their current financial issues, with Howe’s side needing to take advantage and sign the talent who could become their next addition after Bournemouth's Lloyd Kelly and prove to be the perfect alternative to fellow target Michael Olise.

Why Torres would be the perfect Olise alternative

In recent weeks, Newcastle have reportedly been aiming to make three or four ‘high impact’ signings, with the Frenchman on their list of targets ahead of the summer transfer window.

Olise, who is valued at £60m, is undoubtedly a top talent, with his tally of ten goals and six assists in his 19 outings in the Premier League certainty able to improve Howe’s attacking department.

However, despite having made contact with Palace over a potential move, the Tynesiders face competition for his signature, with the rumoured figure potentially out of Newcastle’s price range given their recent issues with FFP.

Torres could prove to be a cheaper alternative to the Palace forward, but he would provide just as much of an impact, with his stats in 2023/24 reflecting the talent he possesses despite his disappointing move back to his homeland.

Games

29

19

Minutes played

1,211

1,275

Goals + assists

9

16

Goals per shot

0.2

0.2

Percentage of shots on target

40%

36%

Pass accuracy

78%

75%

When comparing the pair on FBref, Olise has produced more goals and assists combined, but it’s the only area where he’s beaten the Spaniard over the course of the last 12 months.

The former Manchester City star, who’s been dubbed “world-class” by former boss Xavi Hernandez, has completed more of the passes he’s attempted and averaged more shots on target, thus indicating his creative and clinical threat in the final third.

They’ve both averaged the same amount of goals per shot during the last year, with Torres needing a fresh start to live up to the potential that he previously showcased at the Etihad.

Should the Magpies be able to negotiate a deal in and around the rumoured £17m fee, it would prove to be excellent business, with the club getting a very talented forward – whilst also ensuring they stay within the confines of the Premier League’s FFP rules.

Having already got Kelly through the door on a free transfer, another low-cost deal would be a dream scenario.

Howe can finally complete Newcastle's midfield by signing £38m "machine"

The Magpies are still looking to sign a new midfielder ahead of the summer.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 10, 2024

West Ham United have reportedly submitted an offer to sign a teenage attacker already drawing comparisons to Kylian Mbappe.

West Ham make Luis Guilherme first summer signing

The Hammers and Julen Lopetegui have already brought in Luis Guilherme from Palmeiras in a £25m+ deal, and goalkeeper Wes Foderingham on a free transfer after he left Sheffield United. Guilherme was the first addition of the Lopetegui era and expressed his delight at the move, saying last month:

“I’m very happy to be signing with West Ham United, a Club that trusted in my work. I also want to thank everyone at West Ham, particularly Tim and his team who came to Brazil, and not only talked with me, but also with my family.

“They presented the project, and both my family and I liked it. So, I'm very happy to be signing with this Club and hope to contribute as much as possible. If things go well, we have a beautiful journey ahead. The Head Coach and I already had a conversation. He showed me his project and I believe I’ll learn a lot from him. He’s coached at the national level in Spain and managed big clubs."

West Ham chiefs hold talks over move to sign "phenomenal" Player of the Year

He’s valued at £30m.

ByCharlie Smith Jul 4, 2024

Meanwhile, technical director Tim Steidten was also delighted at signing Guilherme, adding: “We are really happy that Luis Guilherme is now a West Ham United player. He is a very exciting young talent who we have followed for some time, and once we became aware that he was available, Julen and I were determined to bring him to London.

“Luis has enjoyed a fantastic start to his professional career with Palmeiras – naturally a wide player but with the flexibility to play across other attacking positions, which is an important and valuable factor in the modern game. He is technically very gifted, but also has very good physical qualities – great pace, strength and stamina, and these are traits that will help him to adapt to the demands of the Premier League and English football.”

However, Guilherme may not be the only Brazilian attacker moving to the Irons ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

West Ham make Wesley Gassova offer

According to reports from Foot Mercato in the last 48 hours, West Ham have made an offer to sign Corinthians winger Wesley Gassova, who is described as a Brazilian phenomenon.

As well as the Hammers, Premier League rivals Chelsea have also made a move, however, they don't say how much it is worth and add that Gassova would reportedly like to play in France before heading to England.

Nice are one of several Ligue 1 sides keen on the 19-year-old’s signature, with Gassova being compared to Mbappe due to playing from the left but being right-footed as well as his ability in one-on-one situations, being an excellent crosser and his strides with the ball at his feet.

Linked as becoming a potential right-footed Jarrod Bowen at West Ham in recent months, it looks as if the Irons have made their move for Gassova, who has scored seven senior goals for Corinthians in 72 appearances.

Birmingham City head into the forthcoming League One season as a major sleeping giant, with the Blues more used to battling it out in the Championship, as opposed to playing the likes of Burton Albion in the third tier.

The relegated side cannot underestimate the challenge ahead, however, as teams are likely to raise their game when facing off against Chris Davies' men, in an attempt to pull off a scalp and embarrass the Blues.

Birmingham could, however, become more feared by their upcoming League One opponents by signing this attacking gem, who could also soften the potential blow of Paik Seung-Ho departing, by strengthening the midfield ranks.

Birmingham locking horns over soon-to-be free agent

According to a recent report by Birmingham World, Birmingham could be set for an intense transfer scrap with Championship side and near neighbours, West Bromwich Albion, over the services of Josh Windass this summer.

The soon-to-be free agent, who was dazzling towards the back-end of last season for Sheffield Wednesday, would have been a much-needed boost to Birmingham's survival chances if he was on the roster at the Blues then, with Davies and Co now having to convince the 30-year-old to drop down to League One.

The former Accrington Stanley man will, no doubt, see West Brom as the more attractive offer on the table currently, and with the Baggies having already made contact as per the report, Carlos Corberan's men look to be in the driver's seat over a deal for the enigmatic attacker.

What Windass could offer Birmingham

With a reported £20m up for grabs in the Birmingham transfer kitty, Birmingham could flex their guns in the market and swoop in for Windass by offering him a bumper deal, without having to dent the bank too much when it comes to a fee, owing to Windass joining for £0, with his Wednesday contract ripped up shortly.

As well as offering Birmingham a composed head who can finish under pressure, as seen with the curled-in strike above against Newcastle United, Windass would also offer the Blues another option through the centre of the park, if South Korean gem Paik Seung-Ho is off this summer.

Linked with the likes of Blackburn Rovers recently, the 24-year-old Seoul-born midfielder departing will be a blow, but one that would be softened quickly by Windass' arrival onto the scene.

AM

48

16

6

CF

33

12

6

SS

14

3

0

RW

8

2

0

RM

5

1

1

LW

4

1

1

LM

2

1

1

CM

2

1

0

As much as Seung-Ho endeared himself to Birmingham supporters last season with his versatility across the midfield positions, Windass is, arguably, even more flexible for his team when needed, as can be seen glancing at the table above.

The 30-year-old's numbers last playing in the third tier will also make for extremely encouraging reading from a Blues perspective, with a combined goals and assists league tally of 18 from just 34 regular league games really sticking out.

That doesn't even take into account that a last-gasp header from the daring 5 foot 9 forward sealed promotion for Wednesday at the end of that campaign too, crashing in a very late header to win the League One play-off final for the Owls.

Danny Rohl even described Windass as being a "game-changer" for his men on his day last season, seen in his heroics in that play-off final, with more up his sleeve perhaps, if moved onto St. Andrew's soon.

Birmingham could sign perfect Miyoshi partner in swoop for deadly forward

Birmingham City would surely be overwhelming favourites for promotion if they signed this deadly Koji Miyoshi partner.

ByKelan Sarson Jun 25, 2024

There are some huge names being linked with football's 'impossible job', but who stands out as the best fit for the Three Lions?

Most supporters still feel the familiar desolation that followed England's Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain. Gareth Southgate resigned in the aftermath of that crushing disappointment, but three months have passed since then, and the FA has yet to make a decision on his permanent successor.

Lee Carsley was being considered as a leading candidate after an impressive start to his interim reign. England played on the front foot in comfortable wins over the Republic of Ireland and Finland as the former U21s boss ditched the overly cautious blueprint that made Southgate such a divisive figure.

But it was a false dawn. Carsley was brought crashing back down to earth on Thursday as he watched Greece pick up a deserved win over his dismal England side at Wembley. Carsley went for an ultra-attacking line-up, with Jude Bellingham deployed as a false nine in the absence of Harry Kane, and it completely backfired as England were left exposed on the counter.

The Three Lions bounced back with a 3-1 away win against Finland, but it was another unconvincing performance that raised more questions over Carsley's credentials. "I keep saying the same thing. My remit was six games and I'm happy with that," he said after the game. "This job deserves a world-class coach that has won trophies and I am still on the path to that."

Carsley didn't completely rule himself out of the running, but it seems like his time in the dugout will be short-lived. The question is: who is better suited to the job? GOAL has ranked the nine other main contenders, with only a select few falling into the world-class bracket…

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  9Steven Gerrard

  Gerrard is the fourth-most capped player in England's entire history, and probably the most complete midfielder to ever pull on the famous white shirt. Respect would be guaranteed based on reputation alone, and the major tournament experience Gerrard can pass on is potentially invaluable.

  But the jury is very much out on whether he has what it takes to be an elite coach. Aside from a Scottish Premiership title success at Rangers, Gerrard's first six years in management have been a huge disappointment. The Liverpool legend flopped spectacularly at Aston Villa and his stock has only continued to plummet since his move to Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ettifaq.

  In truth, it's worrying that Gerrard has been linked with the England post at all. He's not even close to being ready, and would be wise to head back to the club scene in Europe if he wants to change that.

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  8Jose Mourinho

  Mourinho recently claimed that he has rejected the England job twice, back when he was revered as one of the world's finest managers. The Portuguese also insisted he will only consider international management when he's "old and tired", having embarked on a new challenge with Fenerbahce in the summer, but he may be forced to alter that stance in the near future.

  None of the top clubs are attracted to Mourinho anymore. His insistence on using a siege mentality to motivate his squad is more exhausting than inspiring these days, and his tactics looked hopelessly outdated at Manchester United, Tottenham and Roma.

  But that doesn't mean the former Chelsea and Real Madrid mastermind is finished yet. Mourinho's skills are actually a much better fit for the international stage; he knows exactly what it takes to win tournaments and how to get his players up for one-off games. Achieving success with England would repair his damaged reputation, too, though it's unlikely the FA will look at him seriously again until he stops courting controversy on the touchline.

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  7Frank Lampard

  Just like Gerrard, Lampard is a once great footballer who has found the transition into management far more more difficult than he would ever have imagined. He did okay in his first role at Derby, but jumped into the Chelsea hot seat too soon and was ill-equipped to deal with the chaos behind the scenes at Everton.

  After being sacked by both of those clubs, Lampard landed on his feet with a return to Stamford Bridge as caretaker manager, but also blew that opportunity as Chelsea slumped to a bottom half finish in 2022-23. Lampard has been out of work since, and it remains to be seen if he still has the same hunger to succeed as a coach.

  The outlook is not all bad for Lampard, though. He's a brilliant communicator and has a strong record with the development of younger players, notably bringing through Mason Mount, Reece James and Tammy Abraham at Chelsea. England would be taking a major risk if they were to turn to Lampard, but it would make more sense than opting for Gerrard, and he could surprise everyone.

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  6Kieran McKenna

  McKenna has come a long way since taking the brave decision to leave Manchester United's coaching staff and head out on his own. He took the reins at Ipswich in 2021 and has since guided the Tractor Boys from League One to the Premier League, earning plenty of admirers for his innovative style of play in the process.

  United, Chelsea, Tottenham and Brighton all reportedly had an eye on making McKenna their new head coach in the summer, but he eventually decided to pen a new four-year deal at Portman Road. The 38-year-old might be rueing that call privately, with Ipswich already staring down the barrel of relegation after a winless start to life back in the top-flight, but according to , he is still on England's shortlist to replace Carsley.

  FA technical director John McDermott is said to be a big fan of McKenna, having previously worked with the former Northern Ireland international when he was a youth coach at Tottenham, and England could certainly do a lot worse. McKenna is a progressive manager capable of creating a trust-based dressing room environment, and would also give the team a clear identity – which was lacking under Southgate.