Newcastle United’s transfer window has been one of the most eventful in the Premier League.

The Magpies, fresh from a fifth-place finish last season and preparing for a Champions League campaign, have already been among the busiest clubs in the market.

Their recruitment strategy has been clear: target young players with scope to grow.

Jacob Ramsey arrived from Aston Villa to add drive to midfield, Malick Thiaw was secured from AC Milan to bolster the back line, and Anthony Elanga and Aaron Ramsdale have added depth in attack and the goalkeeping department respectively.

Yet, for all the excitement surrounding these signings, Newcastle’s summer has been dominated by uncertainty around Alexander Isak.

The Swedish striker has been at the centre of intense speculation, refusing to train with the squad and missing the opening fixtures against Aston Villa and Liverpool.

The absence of a recognised number nine left Eddie Howe short of attacking options, with Anthony Gordon even forced to operate as a makeshift forward before his red card compounded matters further.

A sudden £69m agreement with Stuttgart for Nick Woltemade has steadied nerves, but it has not distracted from Newcastle’s wider concerns in midfield.

Injuries to Sandro Tonali and Joelinton – even if not serious – have exposed how dependent Howe’s side can be on certain personnel.

It is within this context that the Magpies have begun exploring additional midfield reinforcements.

While one target in particular has caught their attention, prising him away from Inter Milan will be anything but straightforward.

Newcastle table approach for Serie A star

According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Newcastle United have lodged a proposal for Inter Milan’s Davide Frattesi, with talks continuing over a potential late move.

Their initial suggestion involved a loan deal with an obligation to buy, but the terms of that arrangement are far from guaranteed.

The Nerazzurri value the midfielder at around €40m (£35m) and would only sanction an exit if the structure of the deal was near-certain – either through a permanent transfer or a cast-iron obligation to purchase.

Frattesi is far from surplus to requirements at San Siro.

Transfer Focus

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

Although Inter’s midfield remains one of the deepest in Europe, manager Cristian Chivu considers the Italian international an important part of his side.

Indeed, the 25-year-old former Sassuolo man has carved out a reputation as one of the most dynamic midfielders in Italy.

Fabrizio Romano recently described him as “one of the best midfielders in Serie A,” a testament to his all-action playing style.

For Newcastle, the pursuit of Frattesi appears to be linked directly to the fitness issues of Joelinton and Tonali.

While neither is expected to face long-term layoffs, the scare was enough to prompt the club to consider adding extra depth.

However, with Ramsey already added this summer and Inter proving resistant to complex proposals, it remains to be seen if a deal will be struck.

Even so, the very fact they made the enquiry highlights how highly they regard Frattesi and how keen they are to ensure their midfield remains among the strongest in England.

Why Frattesi represents an upgrade on Joelinton

From a tactical standpoint, the Italian midfielder offers a profile that differs significantly from Joelinton.

At 29 years old, the Brazilian is approaching his peak years and has been a vital part of Howe’s project, not least for his versatility in operating as both a box-to-box midfielder and an occasional forward.

Last season, he contributed 4 goals and 3 assists in 29 Premier League appearances, while also ranking well for defensive metrics such as tackles (2.14 per 90) and blocks (1.39 per 90).

His combative style and physical presence have long made him a fan favourite. Frattesi, however, provides a more modern interpretation of the central midfield role.

His ability to break forward into advanced areas is reflected in his statistical profile.

Davide Frattesi – 2024/25
Matches Played	28
Goals	5
Assists	5
Progressive Carries	23
Progressive Passes	31
Shot-Creating Actions	19
Source: FBref

According to FBref, he ranks in the 99th percentile for non-penalty expected goals per 90 (0.37), the 95th percentile for total shots (1.91), and the 93rd percentile for touches in the attacking penalty area (3.08).

Few midfielders in Serie A can match his late runs into the box or his instinct for goal-scoring opportunities.

Compared to Joelinton, he registers a higher volume of shots per 90 (2.06 vs 1.69) and demonstrates greater efficiency in getting into dangerous positions, even if his shot accuracy (25%) lags slightly behind the Brazilian’s (28.9%).

Defensively, the comparison tilts back towards Joelinton.

The Brazilian remains stronger in duels, tackles, and blocks, highlighting his value in regaining possession and providing cover in midfield.

Frattesi, by contrast, is less imposing in pure defensive numbers, averaging 1.25 tackles per 90 and 0.88 blocks – a reflection of his role in a side where he is tasked with progressing the ball and supporting the attack rather than anchoring.

Where the Italian really shines is in transitional play.

His 1.70 progressive carries per 90 underline his ability to drive the ball forward, while his off-the-ball movement allows him to destabilise defensive lines and create space for teammates.

Comparisons have even been drawn with Scott McTominay of Napoli and Roma’s Niccolò Pisilli – midfielders who combine stamina with attacking intent.

In a Newcastle side often reliant on the directness of Joelinton and the passing range of Bruno Guimarães, Frattesi’s blend of dynamism and goal threat could provide a new dimension.

Crucially, the 25-year-old is also a player for the long term.

With a market value of €35m (£30m), as per Transfermarkt, he offers both current quality and future resale potential, aligning with Newcastle’s strategy of recruiting players with prime years still ahead of them.

While Joelinton has been integral to the club’s rise, the Italian’s ceiling appears higher, particularly in terms of end product.

For Howe, the question is whether depth or evolution is the priority.

If the aim is to simply safeguard against injuries to Tonali and Joelinton, then Newcastle’s midfield may already be well-stocked.

But if the ambition is to add a midfielder capable of pushing the side towards the next level in Europe, Frattesi represents a compelling option.

Amazing with Woltemade: Newcastle made move to sign "best 9 in the world"

Newcastle could have landed the perfect partner for Nick Woltemade…

1

By
Will Miller

Aug 30, 2025

Leeds United have had some incredibly gifted attacking players grace the turf at Elland Road in recent seasons to help them to succeed on the pitch.

Go back to Pablo Hernandez and Raphinha under Marcelo Bielsa, Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter under Daniel Farke. There have been some remarkable talents at the club.

Unfortunately, the Whites wer unable to add more attacking quality to their current squad of players for the Premier League season when they tried to dip into the market on deadline day.

Journalist Pete O’Rourke told Football Insider: “There will be a hint of frustration for Daniel Farke – they missed out on some targets.

“They are still lacking a bit up front, Leeds and he fears for them on that front – not getting the deal done for Manor Solomon will be a blow to Farke and the Leeds fans, because he had such a great impact there on loan last season.”

The Whites will have to hope that other players are now able to step up and show that they can be the club’s next number ten in the making, to truly take over from the likes of Summerville and Raphinha.

Why Leeds needs to find their next Summerville or Raphinha

You only have to look at what happened to Leeds in the Premier League with and without Raphinha to realise how important it is to have a pure game-changer in the squad. Someone who can create something out of nothing to win a game for the team.

The Brazil international helped the Whites to avoid relegation in both of his seasons in the Premier League at Elland Road, and they were relegated the season he left for Barcelona in 2022.

Raphinha scored 17 goals and created 22 ‘big chances’ in two Premier League seasons with Leeds, per Sofascore, which shows that he made a big impact at the top end of the pitch.

Appearances

30

35

Goals

6

11

Big chances missed

4

6

Big chances created

12

10

Key passes per game

2.1

1.9

Assists

9

3

Dribbles completed per game

1.9

1.8

Summerville picked up the club’s number ten shirt after Raphinha’s move to Barcelona and went on to become a hugely important player for Daniel Farke in the 2023/24 Championship season.

The Dutch wizard racked up 19 goals and nine assists in 41 starts in the regular season of the second tier, before adding another goal to his tally during the play-offs against Norwich City, per Sofascore.

These statistics show that Summerville and Raphinha were mercurial wingers who could impact games with goals and assists on a regular basis to win vital points for the team during their time at Leeds.

The club’s current holder of the number ten shirt, Joel Piroe, is not that kind of player. He is a goal poacher, and a good one at Championship level, who scored 19 goals in the second tier last term.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

His lack of physicality, having won 27% of his duels in the Championship last season and 9% of his duels in the Premier League so far, may prevent him from making much of an impact in the top-flight, as opposition defenders find it too easy to get the better of him in physical battles.

Leeds, though, may have a natural successor to the number ten shirt in waiting in the form of summer signing Noah Okafor, who could be the new Raphinha for the club at Premier League level.

Why Noah Okafor may be the new Raphinha for Leeds

The Switzerland international arrived from AC Milan in a £17m deal last month and ended the window as the only winger signed by the club all summer.

Leeds have gambled on the 25-year-old attacker after he endured a dismal 2024/25 campaign. The speedster only scored one goal in 21 matches for Napoli and Milan in all competitions, per Sofascore, and missed 13 games through injury, per Transfermarkt.

Okafor’s worrying injury record and his disappointing goal return last season may not fill many supporters with much hope for the kind of impact he can have on the pitch in the Premier League this season.

However, the Swiss left winger’s form in previous seasons suggests that there is the potential for him to emerge as a Raphinha-esque star who is worthy of wearing the number ten shirt at Elland Road.

Okafor produced six goals in 881 minutes in the Serie A in the 2023/24 campaign, a goal every 147 minutes on average, for Milan, which shows what he can do when fit.

The Leeds winger shone in Austria for RB Salzburg prior to his move to Milan in 2023, having racked up 34 goals and 23 assists in 110 appearances, per Transfermarkt.

Appearances

21

Goals

9

Conversion rate

24%

Minutes per goal

105

Big chances created

7

Key passes per game

1.2

Assists

8

As you can see in the table above, Okafor’s best season in Austria shows that he does have the potential to deliver goals and assists on a regular basis when he is at his best.

The Switzerland international was described as an “electric” and “dangerous” player by analyst Ben Mattinson, which are adjectives that could also be used to describe both Summerville and Raphinha during their time at Elland Road.

Okafor has not had much luck with injuries in recent seasons, which has affected his development, but his form for Milan in his first season in Italy and his performances for Salzburg show that he does have the quality to make a big impact in the final third.

It is now down to Farke to get the best out of the left-sided attacker because he could be the Raphinha to his Bielsa at Premier League level, by scoring and assisting goals to win vital points for the team.

Leeds let a "magnificent" CF go for £0, now he's outscoring Calvert-Lewin

Leeds United once released a star who has outscored Dominic Calvert-Lewin significantly in recent years.

ByDan Emery Sep 9, 2025

Given Piroe’s dismal start to the Premier League season, losing 91% of his duels and being left as an unused substitute against Newcastle last time out, Okafor may have a real chance to grab the number ten shirt next season if the Dutchman moves on and he produes quality displays out wide this term.

MatériaMais Notícias

É mais um dia de Campeonato Brasileiro. Neste domingo, o Internacional visita o Red Bull Bragantino, às 16h, no Estádio Nabi Abi Chedid, em Bragança Paulista. O jogo será transmitido pela TV Globo (para o Rio Grande do Sul) e pelo Premiere. O Lance! acompanha o duelo em tempo real. O jogo marca a reestreia do técnico Eduardo Coudet no Colorado. Ele substituiu Mano Menezes, que foi demitido.

RelacionadasAtlético MineiroPróximos jogos do Atlético-MG: onde assistir e calendário com datas e horários das partidasAtlético Mineiro12/10/2023GrêmioPróximos jogos do Grêmio: veja calendário, datas, horários e onde assistir às partidasGrêmio12/10/2023São PauloPróximos jogos do São Paulo: onde assistir, datas, horários e calendárioSão Paulo10/10/2023

+ Veja a classificação atualizada e a tabela completa do Brasileirão

O Red Bull Bragantino é sétimo colocado com 24 pontos e tenta se reaproximar do G4. Já o Colorado é o 12º, mas apenas com dois pontos a menos. Ou seja, um duelo direto.

RED BULL BRAGANTINO X INTERNACIONAL

Data e horário: domingo, 23/7, às 16h
Local: Estádio Nabi Abi Chedid
Árbitro: Maguielson Lima Barbosa (DF)
Assistentes: Kleber Lucio Gil e Leone Carvalho Rocha
Onde assistir: Globo (Rio Grande do Sul) e Premiere. O Lance! acompanha o jogo em tempo real.

PROVÁVEIS ESCALAÇÕES

BRAGANTINO: Cleiton; Aderlan, Eduardo Santos, Luan Patrick e Juninho Capixaba; Matheus Fernandes, Lucas Evangelista e Eric Ramires; Sorriso, Vitinho e Eduardo Sasha. Técnico: Pedro Caixinha.

INTERNACIONAL: Rochet; Bustos, Mercado, Nico Hernández e Renê; Rômulo, Aránguiz, Johnny e Alan Patrick; Wanderson e Enner Valencia. Técnico: Eduardo Coudet.

The LSG opener admitted there is temptation to want to bat like Pooran and Marsh but his best chance of success was to bat his way

ESPNcricinfo staff12-Apr-20251:14

Jaffer: Pooran hands down the best T20 batter at this point

Aiden Markram had a slow start to IPL 2025. But in his last three matches, he has scores of 58, 47 and 53, which have played their part in Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) registering a hat-trick of wins.He is a key part of their high-scoring top order along with Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh.”Yeah, definitely slow [start to the campaign],” Markram said after being named Player of the Match against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Saturday. “You want to start this competition sort of ahead of the game, but unfortunately [I] fell a bit behind. But slight change of role [from a middle-order player last IPL] and probably just getting accustomed to that again and being up top and having the complete freedom to play your game and take the bowlers on. So, didn’t come off in the first few, but grateful that the last couple of matches have been a bit better.”Markram said that sticking to his game, and not trying to emulate Pooran and Marsh’s approach of hitting “sixes for fun” has helped him find his form.Related

Pooran and Marsh getting out early 'brought the best out of Markram', says Boucher

Free-falling CSK meet high-flying LSG in clash of contrasts

Despite the loss, Gujarat Titans believe in #NehraMaths

Markram and Pooran end Gujarat Titans' winning streak

“Schedules are packed obviously, so you’re sort of just hopping around, playing lots of cricket and conditions always changing and things like that. So, there’s lots to take in, but ultimately you need to stick true to your game,” he said. “There’s guys that can hit sixes for fun. That might not be my strength, so [you] back what you’re good at. So, if it comes off, the team can benefit from that.”Markram said one could “very easily” get sucked into trying to play differently with team-mates like Pooran and Marsh. “So, initially in the competition, I sort of thought I need to remould my game and find a way to really clear the boundaries as often as they do, but you always end up going back to your strengths as a player.”If it’s good enough for selection, then you get back. If not, you completely understand. So, I think it’s quite important to stick true to things like that and if the team can benefit and you can come up for the team, obviously that’s the most important thing.”Marsh missed the match against GT as his daughter was unwell, and LSG captain Rishabh Pant opened in his absence. Markram and Pant put on a 65-run stand in 6.2 overs before Pooran came in and continued his stunning form, which has kept him at the top of the run chart since he got there,Aiden Markram hit a 31-ball 58 against Gujarat Titans•Associated Press”Unfortunately, Mitch didn’t play today and obviously Rishabh stepped up to play [at the top]. What was important for us was that partnership,” Pooran said after the game. “Aiden continuing his good form throughout the season, it’s nice to see him get a start and obviously carry on. He would have liked to go to the end as well, but we obviously take that.”GT tried to tempt Pooran into targeting the longer boundary by bringing on left-arm spinner R Sai Kishore in the tenth over. The gambit didn’t pay off, with Pooran hitting him for three sixes off four balls.Pooran said that while batting at No. 3, a batter has to sometimes consolidate, but also “target their goal”.”Today I was lucky that obviously they brought Sai on to bowl to me, obviously with the big side [on the leg side],” Pooran said. “Yes, I can hit the ball in the air and get out as well but for me that was definitely a match-up and I had to be brave and take my match-up and try to pull the game. So today was just one of those days that it came off for me.”

Declan Rice came back to haunt West Ham once again as the former Hammer opened the scoring against his old club to help Arsenal to a 2-0 victory which sent them to the top of the Premier League table. Bukayo Saka was also on target but there was to be more injury agony for Martin Odegaard, as he once again had to leave the pitch prematurely in what's proving to be a bit of a nightmare start to the season on a personal level.

Rice, who has already found the net against his former employers once since switching east London for north London was at it again this afternoon, firing home from close range to break the visitors' first-half resistance after Alphonse Areola had kept out Jurrien Timber's strike.

It was a crucial goal for Mikel Arteta's side, who went on to make the game safe after the interval when Saka struck from the penalty spot following a foul on Timber.

Saka's spot-kick sealed a routine win for the Gunners, but there was some disappointment as they lost captain Odegaard to a knee injury early on, with the Arsenal skipper becoming the first player in Premier League history to be substituted before half-time in three consecutive starts.

GOAL rates Arsenal's players from Emirates Stadium…

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Goalkeeper & Defence

  David Raya (6/10):

  Flapped at a very early corner. Barely troubled from that moment on.

  Jurrien Timber (8/10):

  Strong display down the right. Got forward well and could have scored early on when he forced Areola into a good save. Won the penalty with another strong run in the second half.

  William Saliba (7/10):

  Cruised through the game and got forward a bit more than usual, playing a couple of nice passes around the box.

  Gabriel Magalhaes (7/10):

  Comfortable afternoon's work at the back. Rarely troubled.

  Riccardo Calafiori (8/10):

  Popped up all over the pitch, so unlucky not to make it 2-0 just before half-time when he smashed an effort against the post. Another fine performance.

Advertisement

• AFP
  

  Midfield

  Declan Rice (8/10):

  On the scoresheet against his former club once again. It was actually a decent finish, as it was not the easiest shot to keep down. A typically strong performance and the standout player on the pitch.

  Eberechi Eze (7/10):

  Missed a great early chance but consistently got into dangerous positions and it was his shot that led to Rice's opening goal. Lively in the first half, although faded a bit after the break.

  Martin Odegaard (N/A):

  So unlucky to be forced off early again. He becomes the first player in Premier League history to be subbed off before half-time in three consecutive starts.

• AFP
  

  Attack

  Bukayo Saka (7/10):

  Constant threat down the right in the first half. Less involved in the second, but tucked the penalty away emphatically to make it 2-0.

  Victor Gyokeres (6/10):

  Struggled to really get into the game. Worked hard, but West Ham dealt with him well. 

  Leandro Trossard (7/10):

  Neat and tidy. Had one early shot blocked. Kept things moving and was probably Arsenal's best attacker in the second half.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

• AFP
  

  Subs & Manager

  Martin Zubimendi (7/10):

  Class act. On early for Odegaard and immediately made an impact, playing the ball through for Eze in the build-up to Rice's goal.

  Myles Lewis-Skelly (6/10):

  Replaced Calafiori as Arsenal saw the game out.

  Ethan Nwaneri (6/10):

  Never really got into the game having come on for the final 20 minutes.

  Mikel Merino (N/A):

  Replaced the injured Rice with 10 minutes remaining.

  Gabriel Martinelli (N/A):

  On for Eze late on.

  Mikel Arteta (7/10):

  Went with a more attacking line-up, but Odegaard's injury denied us the chance to see how it worked. He'll be happy with the win, although would have liked to have seen a more clinical edge to his side.

تمكن فريق ريال مدريد من تحقيق فوز شاق على خصمه خيتافي، مساء يوم الأحد، في إطار منافسات بطولة الدوري الإسباني لكرة القدم لذلك الموسم.

وحل ريال مدريد ضيفًا على خيتافي، في الجولة التاسعة من بطولة الدوري الإسباني، موسم 2025/26، حيث حقق الملكي فوزًا بهدف دون رد (لمطالعة التفاصيل من هنا).

جاء فوز ريال مدريد عن طريق النجم كيليان مبابي، الذي سجل هدف المباراة الوحيد في الدقيقة 80.

ونجح مبابي في تسجيل هدف الفوز بعد دقائق قليلة من حصول لاعب خيتافي، نيوم، على بطاقة حمراء بعد تدخله القوي على فينيسيوس جونيور، ليخرج من أرض الملعب بعد دقيقة من نزوله كبديل.

وقال الحكم الإسباني السابق، بيريز بورول، في تصريحات عبر شبكة “راديو ماركا” الإسبانية: “الأمر قريب جدًا ما بين التهور واللعب العنيف”.

وأضاف: “لا يبدو أن هناك أي اعتداء، مع إن وضع الذراع على مستوى الرقبة يمثل خطرًا كبيرًا، الأمر قابل للنقاش”.

وواصل: “العامل الذي يجعلني أعتقد أنها بطاقة حمراء أكثر منها صفراء هو أن لاعب خيتافي كان يتطلع بوضوح إلى ضرب الخصم وليس الكرة”.

Manchester United could now join the race to sign a Premier League player who has been described as an “absolute gem” of a footballer.

Amorim backed by former Man Utd player

It’s fair to say that Ruben Amorim is feeling the heat as Red Devils manager, not least after the humiliating EFL Cup penalty shootout defeat to Grimsby Town last month.

Despite this, former United defender Phil Jones has shown his support for the Portuguese, suggesting he still believes he is the right man for the job.

“I’ll tell you where I’m at with Amorim… I like him. I like the transparency he has between the players and the fans – and I think that’s certainly been something we’ve missed over the last few years. I think certain previous managers have missed a trick, because if you’re transparent with this fanbase, they will back you all the way; they will sing your name and cheer for you.

“Look, he came in straight away and said things were going to get worse before they got better, and that’s been the case. I like his authenticity. He is who he is, and he’ll face criticism for it. But he’s not going to change for anyone. He owns it. He inherited a squad which wasn’t his, halfway through a season, who were used to playing a different way. Let’s just give him time.”

United are by no means the finished article, and they still need to strengthen certain areas of the squad after a mixed summer transfer window.

Man Utd could join race for Premier League hero

Speaking to The Boot Room, journalist Graeme Bailey claimed that Manchester United could join the race to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, should they secure Champions League football this season.

“Liverpool will be back for him, of course. But they know they’ll be one of many clubs making an offer. Now, with Guehi, it resets everything. Everyone starts at a blank slate. Guehi’s people are aware of the clubs who have already told them they’ll be making an offer next summer – clubs like Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid.

“In England, let’s see where Tottenham finish – they love him as a player. Would Chelsea come into the equation on a free transfer? Of course, they would. Man United? If they finish in the top four, of course they do.”

Guehi missed out on joining Liverpool on deadline day, despite even passing a medical, so for United to suddenly swoop in and sign him next summer would be significant, pipping their rivals to his signature in the process.

The 25-year-old is a fantastic player who has grown into a key starter for England in the coming years, with coach Michael Beale hailing him during his time working with him at Chelsea as a youngster.

“He shows a huge amount of confidence to play on the left side and his technical upbringing from Chelsea means he can use his left foot, albeit he is dominant on his right foot. When you see the teams line up, he’s not the biggest centre-back but he has a huge leap. Quietly people are realising we have an absolute gem in him.”

Guehi is out of contract at Palace in 2026, and his anger at not joining Liverpool means he is highly unlikely to sign an extension, so United should be all in on signing him on a free transfer.

Man Utd plotting to kick star out and do one of the headline deals of 2026

The Red Devils could be set to spring a surprise on the market.

1 BySean Markus Clifford Sep 6, 2025

That said, Champions League football will surely be needed for the Red Devils to get their man, and in truth, their biggest rivals still feel like the favourites to sign him.

England Test off spinner Shoaib Bashir is set to join Glamorgan for the start of the County Championship season on a short-term loan from Somerset, ESPNcricinfo understands.With Bashir behind Jack Leach at Somerset, and the emergence of off-spinning allrounder Archie Vaughan, the county were happy to let Bashir leave Taunton on a temporary deal. The ECB helped facilitate the move to Glamorgan as Bashir is currently on a one-year central contract, and are keen for the 21-year old to get more playing time to hone is raw talent. The stint is understood to be for the first three matches of the season, starting at Sophia Gardens against Leicestershire on April 4, before away fixtures against Gloucestershire and Middlesex.The move allows Glamorgan to cover for leg spinner Mason Crane who will miss the first three rounds with a shoulder injury. The acquisition of Bashir in the absence of Crane, who was due to partner Ben Kellaway – who bowls both left- and right-arm orthodox – allows the club to adhere to a plan of playing two spinners in their XI at the start of their Division Two campaign.Related

• Shoaib Bashir on fast track as Ashes mission begins in earnest

• Shoaib Bashir joins Worcestershire on short-term loan from Somerset

Bashir emerged as Ben Stokes’ go-to spinner last year, with 49 wickets across 15 Tests, and will use the move to tune-up for the one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge which begins on May 22. The 21-year-old undertook a similar loan spell at Worcestershire last season – an arrangement Glamorgan were also interested in at the time – in what was a breakthrough 2024.Propelled onto the international scene for the Test tour of India despite just six first-class appearances to his name, Bashir impressed with 17 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls, in his first three caps. He soon usurped Leach as England’s primary slow-bowling option for the home summer and marked that ascension with career-best red-ball figures of 5 for 41 in the second Test against West Indies, bowling England to victory at Trent Bridge.Challenging series followed against Sri Lanka (six dismissals at 49.33) and in the winter against Pakistan (nine at 49.55) and New Zealand (eight at 51.75). And after taking just four wickets in three matches on England Lions’ tour of Australia, including 1 for 74 in the unofficial Test against Australia A, the chance to start the summer with first-team cricket at Glamorgan will be vital given the high-profile engagements that lie ahead.Bashir will hope to lock horns once more with India in this summer’s five-match Test series, leading into the Ashes at the end of the year. At six-foot-four, his high release point, and a natural ability to impart overspin on the ball are regarded as vital characteristics for success on Australian pitches, something he was able to work on as part of Andrew Flintoff’s Lions squad at the start of the year, with assistance from Lions spin-bowling coach Graeme Swann.To date, just 11 of Bashir’s 27 first-class appearances have come in the County Championship, and his current deal at Somerset is set to expire at the end of the summer, along with his central contract.Speaking to ESPNcricinfo at the start of the year, Bashir underlined a desire to improve his consistency and ability to hold up an end without shirking his wicket-taker responsibilities. “I’m 21 years old, right? I’m still learning. I’ve only played professional cricket for about, what, two or three years? It’s just a work in progress.”Even in the short-term, a move to Glamorgan will aid that development given their propensity to operate with an out-and-out spinner. Last year, Crane played 11 of a possible 14 matches in Division Two, bowling 304.2 overs, the second most in the squad after James Harris’ 309.5, with 29 dismissals. Bashir can also call on the expertise of ex-England spinner Richard Dawson, who was appointed interim-head coach at Glamorgan in January.

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim will have been left relieved after his side went into the international break off the back of a last-minute winner against Burnley in the Premier League.

The Red Devils had picked up one point from the first two matches in the division and lost to League Two Grimsby in the League Cup before Bruno Fernandes’ last-gasp penalty secured all three points at Old Trafford against the Clarets.

It has been far from a perfect start to the campaign, with one win in four games in all competitions, and there has been debate around the manager’s calls on Kobbie Mainoo’s game time.

Why Kobbie Mainoo is not starting for Man Utd

The England international has not started any of the club’s three matches in the Premier League. He also came off the bench in just one of those games, which was the 3-2 win over Burnley.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Expand Collapse

Mainoo has found himself on the bench because the signings of Mateus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have moved Fernandes into a central midfield role alongside Casemiro.

This has left the 20-year-old academy graduate without a space in the team because of the 3-4-2-1 set-up that Amorim has favoured throughout his time at the club so far.

The quotes from the manager in the graphic above explain why Mainoo has not started in the Premier League, because he sees him as an alternative to the captain, rather than an alternative to Casemiro or Manuel Ugarte.

Amorim could find a way to get the English maestro into the starting line-up, though, by finally changing his formation from a 3-4-2-1 to a 4-3-3 or a 4-2-3-1.

Why Ruben Amorim should change his Man Utd formation

The Portuguese head coach has been criticised in some quarters for his lack of flexibility with his formation. It is not hard to understand why that has been the case when you look at his record in the Premier League.

Ruben Amorim (Premier League)

24/25

25/26

Matches managed

27

3

Wins

7

1

Draws

6

1

Losses

14

1

Points

27

4

Position

15th

9th

Stats via Transfermarkt

As you can see in the table above, Amorim has lost 15 of his 30 matches in charge of the club in the division, winning just eight, so it may finally be time for a change.

That would allow Mainoo to slot into a midfield three that suits him, with Casemiro or Ugarte as the number six and Mainoo, Fernandes, and Mount battling it out for the two number eight roles.

In order to facilitate this change in formation, Amorim must ruthlessly ditch Luke Shaw from the starting line-up, as he will need to remove one of his three centre-backs to put another central midfielder in.

Shaw, who earns £150k-per-week, has not done much of note in his three starts in the Premier League this term, losing 56% of his duels and failing to make a single interception, per Sofascore, and is not a natural centre-back, which is why taking him out seems to be the most logical move.

The English defender, who was described as “disastrous” by podcaster Adam Joseph earlier this year, could be dropped to the bench to be a back-up to Patrick Dorgu at left-back, which would then allow the formation to change to a four-back with three central midfielders to revive Mainoo’s career.

Given that Fernandes is the talisman and captain of Manchester United, it seems unlikely that Mainoo’s career is going to be revived at Old Trafford unless Amorim makes this change in system, which is why he should consider it.

This would also allow Fernandes to push further forward, with Mateus Cunha, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo competing for places out wide, to impact matches in the final third.

Therefore, this is a move that could work out for the best of the team and for Mainoo by getting United’s attacking players into their best roles to affect games consistently, and help Amorim to finally string a run of wins together after a dismal time in Manchester so far.

Related Man Utd tipped to join race for Premier League star who's an "absolute gem"

What a coup this would be for the Red Devils.

Posts ByHenry Jackson Sep 6, 2025

Liverpool are enjoying the fruits of a bold transfer window while simultaneously trusting in their academy.

Under Arne Slot, the Reds have seamlessly balanced blockbuster arrivals with the promotion of youth talent, echoing the philosophy that served them well under Jürgen Klopp.

The summer business was headline-grabbing.

Florian Wirtz joined from Bayer Leverkusen for a British-record £116m fee, only for Alexander Isak to eclipse that figure with his £125m move from Newcastle on deadline day.

Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Geovani Leoni and Hugo Ekitike also arrived, while Luis Díaz, Darwin Núñez and Jarell Quansah were among those to depart.

Despite those upheavals, Liverpool began their Premier League defence with three straight wins – 4-2 at home to Bournemouth, 3-2 away at Newcastle, and 1-0 against Arsenal at Anfield.

Slot has rotated his stars while showing a willingness to reward academy prospects. Against Newcastle, that faith paid off spectacularly when a debutant stole the headlines.

Rio Ngumoha: A star Rises

Rio Ngumoha had been on Liverpool’s radar for months before his 2024 switch from Chelsea’s academy, but few predicted the immediate impact he would make.

Introduced in the 96th minute at St James’ Park, the then 16-year-old marked his Premier League debut by scoring in the 100th minute – becoming the youngest goalscorer in the club’s history.

Youngest Scorers in PL History

#

Player

Age

1

James Vaughan

16 yrs, 8 months, 27 days

2

James Milner

16 yrs, 11 months, 22 days

3

Wayne Rooney

16 yrs, 11 months, 25 days

4

Rio Ngumoha

16 yrs, 11 months, 26 days

5

Cesc Fabregas

17 yrs, 3 months, 21 days

Now 17, Ngumoha is regarded as one of England’s brightest talents.

A skilful and creative forward, he combines flair with composure beyond his years. His market value, via Transfermarkt, already stands at €10m (£8m), reflecting his rising reputation.

The England youth international had been gradually integrated into senior training last season, appearing on the bench in an EFL Cup tie against Southampton before making his professional debut in January’s 4-0 FA Cup win over Accrington Stanley.

That appearance made him the youngest Liverpool player to start a first-team game, and the youngest to feature in the competition for the Reds.

Ngumoha’s rapid ascent has naturally drawn comparisons with other academy graduates who once carried a similar weight of expectation.

For Liverpool, there is a recent example that provides both inspiration and caution.

Liverpool's original Ngumoha

Kaide Gordon was once Liverpool’s golden boy, described by Klopp as a “special talent.”

Signed from Derby County in 2021 for £1m, he was earmarked for a swift breakthrough.

The right-winger wasted little time making an impression, debuting in an EFL Cup win at Norwich and scoring his first senior goal against Shrewsbury in the FA Cup.

A Premier League debut soon followed in 2022, and Gordon looked set to carve out a long-term role in Liverpool’s attack.

But progress stalled. Persistent injuries disrupted his momentum and halted his development at a crucial stage.

Last season brought loan spells at Portsmouth and Norwich in the Championship, intended to reignite his trajectory having not played in the Slot era to date. In fact, he’s not been seen in Liverpool red for 18 months.

While those experiences offered game time, they also highlighted the gulf between potential and consistency.

Gordon was linked with another temporary move this summer, but a deal failed to materialise, leaving him to fight for minutes at Anfield.

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast’s In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

Expand Collapse

Now 20, Gordon’s story serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of academy prospects. For every breakthrough like Ngumoha, there are setbacks like Gordon’s. The path from prodigy to first-team regular is rarely linear.

That juxtaposition makes Ngumoha’s situation fascinating. The youngster’s debut winner has elevated him into the spotlight, but Liverpool will be keen to manage his development carefully, avoiding the pitfalls that befell Gordon.

With Slot’s track record of nurturing talent, there is optimism that Ngumoha can continue his upward curve without being burdened by premature expectation.

Ngumoha may be Liverpool’s present and future, but his progression must be handled with care.

The contrast with Gordon illustrates both the opportunity and the risk of investing in youth.

For Slot, the challenge is to integrate Ngumoha while continuing Liverpool’s title defence – a delicate balancing act that could shape the club’s future as much as its present.

Related Not Ngumoha: Liverpool's exciting 17-year-old could become the next Isak

Liverpool have refined every level of their squad this summer, from youth to senior standard.

Posts ByAngus Sinclair Sep 4, 2025