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“So the evolution might just be: what’s next for him? Tactically, what he needs to do to keep evolving,” CSK bowling consultant Eric Simons says

ESPNcricinfo staff01-May-20253:37

Pathirana’s downturn ‘mainly due to his action’, says Ambati Rayudu

Matheesha Pathirana was one of Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) great success stories in 2023, when he picked up 19 wickets in 12 games with an economy rate of 8.01. A hamstring injury curtailed his participation in 2024. In IPL 2025, it’s been nine wickets in eight games, a high economy rate of 10.40, and an average of 33.11.Part of the reason for the lack of success, kind of mirroring the season CSK have had, is a changed action.”I think it’s been pretty well documented that there was a bit of [an] action change,” Eric Simons, CSK bowling consultant, said after CSK lost to Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Wednesday to be eliminated from the playoffs race. “But I think he’s pretty much back to where he was, just in terms of the height of his arm on a reasonably consistent basis.”Related

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Stephen Fleming, CSK’s head coach, had seemed to suggest after CSK’s previous match, against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), that the action change had become evident in South Africa during the SA20 earlier this year and that Sri Lanka Cricket were possibly responsible for it.”Pathirana, in South Africa, he was way off. And yes, there was an issue with his action and that might be a question for Sri Lanka Cricket,” Fleming had said in a press conference. “But we’ll certainly look to try and get him back into form and get him back to what we think is his best action and his best opportunity at performing well.”He’s not far away. He’s made a massive improvement in the two months since South Africa. And we just hope he keeps making that improvement part of his evolution; he is going to try things, and be asked to try things, and he’ll settle at some point on an action that will give him the best results.”Pathirana’s worst day in office was against Mumbai Indians (MI) on April 20 at the Wankhede Stadium, when he came on to bowl the 14th over, conceded 14 runs chiefly to Rohit Sharma, and then got tonked for three sixes by Suryakumar Yadav in his next over, finishing with 1.4-0-34-0.2:10

Is CSK losing five times at home IPL’s biggest shocker?

“I’m not sure that he is less accurate. I think batsmen are playing him a lot better. We can certainly see a trend the way batsmen are playing against him. Particularly against Mumbai the other day, the technique they are using, they understand what his plans are [and] what he does,” Simons said. “So the evolution might just be: what’s next for him? Tactically, what he needs to do to keep evolving. Batsmen need to keep evolving. Bowlers need to keep evolving.”Again, tonight, his channels were quite good. His lines were quite good, obviously he got his lengths… you prefer a fuller length. But the batsmen are treating him differently this year. So it’s about the evolution of him, but if you check his accuracy, it’s not a reflection of the runs that were scored [off him].”He picked up the wickets of Nehal Wadhera and Shreyas Iyer against PBKS, but gave away 45 runs in his four overs.”It’s a feel thing for him,” Simons said, “much more than the conversation around his technique. We feel he’s pretty much back there.”

Newcastle United’s search for a striker has become the dominant theme of their summer transfer window.

The uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak has left the club scrambling for solutions at a time when Eddie Howe is desperate for stability.

Despite playing well in their Premier League opener against Aston Villa, Newcastle looked blunt without a proper No. 9, failing to make their dominance count in a 0-0 draw.

Isak’s public fallout with the club has only heightened the urgency. The Swede has made it clear he has no intention of reintegrating into Howe’s squad, regardless of whether a transfer materialises.

His absence has destabilised the attack, leaving Newcastle with plenty of industry in wide areas but little cutting edge through the middle.

Newcastle handed striker opportunity

Liverpool’s approach appears to have unsettled Isak beyond repair, and his Instagram statement about broken promises suggested a player who sees his future away from St James’ Park.

But Newcastle will not sanction his departure without first securing a replacement.

Two bids for Brentford’s Yoane Wissa have already been rejected. Wolves’ Jørgen Strand Larsen and Atlético Madrid’s Alexander Sørloth remain on the list, but neither is straightforward to acquire.

Transfer Focus

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

With time slipping away, Newcastle’s options are narrowing – and Juventus have offered them a striker who could transform their frontline.

According to Sport Witness, Juventus are actively encouraging Newcastle to make a late move for Dusan Vlahović.

The Italian giants are under financial strain, with the Serbian forward’s €12m-per-year wages proving prohibitive as they attempt to reshape their squad.

To balance the books, they have put him on the market for €38m (£35m) – a fraction of the €85m (£80m) valuation he once commanded at his peak in 2022.

Vlahović, however, is not pushing for a move.

Although he has muted aspirations to play in the Premier League one day, Newcastle would have to convince him that now is the right moment. Their Champions League qualification could help, as could the prospect of leading the line in front of St James’ Park’s raucous atmosphere.

For Howe, who has watched his team create chances without anyone to finish them, Vlahović represents the kind of focal point Newcastle have been crying out for.

How Vlahović could link with Gordon and Elanga

The appeal of signing Vlahović lies not just in his ability but also in the potential partnerships he could form with Newcastle’s wide players.

This summer has already seen the arrival of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest, joining Anthony Gordon in giving Howe two explosive options on either flank.

Elanga is particularly strong as a supplier.

Last season he recorded 11 assists, ranking in the 94th percentile for assists per 90 according to FBref.

His delivery was equally impressive, with 6.66 crosses per 90 (94th percentile) and 3.09 corners per 90 (93rd percentile).

With a striker like Vlahović attacking those deliveries, Newcastle would finally have a clinical finisher to match the service from wide.

On the opposite flank, Gordon offers direct running and intelligent distribution into dangerous areas.

According to FBref, he ranked in the 85th percentile compared to positionally similar players for passes into the penalty area per 90 (2.03) and in the 83rd percentile for crosses per 90 (4.84).

His ability to cut inside and release balls into the channel would dovetail neatly with Vlahović’s movement across the front line, whether the Serbian drops deep to hold up play or runs in behind.

Vlahovic himself could offer the presence and decisiveness Newcastle lacked against Villa.

Vlahović – Serie A – 2024/25

Matches Played

29

Starts

21

Goals

10

Assists

4

Progressive Carries

27

Progressive Passes

22

Standing at 1.90m, he combines physical dominance with intelligent movement and a sharp instinct for goal.

Described as a “monster” by Carlo Garganese and as a “better and more complete forward than Haaland” by Serbian FA president Nenad Bjekovic, he scored ten times in Serie A last season, adding four assists, as Juventus secured a top-four finish and returned to the Champions League.

He also netted twice in three games at the Club World Cup, underlining his pedigree on the biggest stages.

The tactical balance looks promising. Vlahović thrives when supported by high-volume chance creators, and Newcastle’s wingers fit that mould.

His aerial ability also provides the Magpies with a set-piece weapon, an area where Howe has been keen to maximise output.

Elanga’s and Gordon’s consistent delivery could therefore add another layer to Newcastle’s attacking threat.

Yet there remain hurdles. Newcastle’s recruitment strategy has been cautious since their initial Saudi-backed spending surge, and the wages involved in a deal for Vlahović could test the limits of Financial Fair Play.

Juventus’ willingness to sell does not automatically mean Newcastle can afford to buy, especially after significant outlays already this summer on Jacob Ramsey, Malick Thiaw, and Aaron Ramsdale.

Still, the logic is clear.

Newcastle cannot allow the Isak saga to derail their season, and they need a proven striker to lead their Champions League campaign.

Vlahović, with his blend of power, finishing, and top-level experience, ticks every box on paper.

Whether Newcastle can persuade him to swap Turin for Tyneside, though, will decide if this move is remembered as an opportunity seized – or one that slipped away.

He'd be the new Andy Carroll: Newcastle now chasing £30m Wissa alternative

Newcastle United Consider Move for Atlético Madrid Striker to Replace Unsettled Alexander Isak

ByWill Miller Aug 24, 2025

Arsenal could reportedly launch a mega Kenan Yildiz swoop as the Gunners have been linked with a €60 million (£52m/$70m) swap deal to sign the Juventus ace. The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has been on fire for the Old Lady this term. With two goals and four assists in just five appearances, Yildiz has rocketed to the top of Juve’s list of untouchables.

North London's obsession with Yildiz

reports that Mikel Arteta and his recruitment chiefs are “crazy” about the Turkish international. Behind the scenes, initial conversations are said to have been sparked, although it remains unclear whether they’ve reached out to the player’s camp, Juventus directly, or both. What is clear, however, is Arsenal’s burning intent to bring Yildiz to the Emirates.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesDetails of the deal

Arsenal are willing to table €60m in cash along with Leandro Trossard as bait. Juventus, though, reportedly value Yildiz closer to the €80-100m (£70m/$94m-£87m/$117m) bracket, making the proposed package a test of their resolve. For Juve, the Belgian winger offers experience and versatility, but at 31 this December, his resale value is slim compared to the rising star they currently possess.

Juve digging in their heels

Sources close to the Italian club insist the Bianconeri want to hold on to their prized asset. In fact, Juve are already working to lock Yildiz down on a fresh contract running until 2030. That long-term plan signals just how central the young midfielder is to their future vision. Letting him go now, even with €60m plus Trossard on the table, would be a bitter pill to swallow.

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Getty ImagesArteta desperate for more firepower

Despite strengthening his frontline in the summer, with the likes of Eberechi Eze, Victor Gyokeres, and Noni Madueke, Arteta is still keen to inject fresh creativity and youth into his attack. Yildiz, with his ability to glide past defenders and unlock tight games, fits the bill perfectly.

As the Premier League campaign draws near and they continue their summer business, reports are now claiming that Tottenham Hotspur have launched an approach to sign a Barcelona midfielder.

Palhinha reveals delight at Premier League return

After missing out on Morgan Gibbs-White, who opted to sign a new contract at Nottingham Forest instead of joining up with Thomas Frank’s side, a new midfielder always seemed on the Tottenham agenda. And whilst Joao Palhinha is a different type of player to Gibbs-White, he will offer the Lilywhites the reinforcement that they’ve been craving.

Delighted to be back in the Premier League following a tough year at Bayern Munich, Palhinha – on paper – is the perfect midfielder for Frank’s hard-working, combative midfield.

It wouldn’t even be absurd to suggest that the ex-Fulham man could be the Dane’s new version of Christian Norgaard, who thrived under his management at Brentford before leaving for Arsenal this summer.

That said, Palhinha isn’t the only midfield name to find himself on Tottenham’s radar following their Gibbs-White disappointment earlier in the summer transfer window.

Tottenham make first Casado approach

As reported by Sport in Spain, and relayed by Sport Witness, Tottenham made an approach to sign Marc Casado from Barcelona before they secured Palhinha’s signature.

The 21-year-old is free to leave the La Liga giants for around €30m (£26m) this summer and, although he reportedly turned down the chance to complete a move the first time around, it will be interesting to see whether Spurs come calling with a second attempt to secure his arrival this month.

Praised for his “superb attitude” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Barcelona’s loss could quickly become Tottenham’s gain if they managed to convince Casado into a move this summer. Whilst Palhinha’s arrival does ease their desperation for another midfielder, the chance to sign a La Masia graduate is not one that the Lilywhites should turn down.

At just 21 years old, the Spaniard would be the long-term option that Palhinha – at 30 years old – can’t guarantee Frank’s side, especially given that they have no obligation to buy the latter after his loan spell next summer.

Arsenal chiefs were recently handed the chance to sign a Chelsea star this summer, with sporting director Andrea Berta and the Gunners recruitment team delivering a clear response.

Mikel Arteta’s side have spent north of £200 million this window – an outlay signaling major ambition ahead of another Premier League title challenge.

There’s still interest in Eberechi Eze, with reports suggesting the player is keen on the move, but there’s still been no official bid to Crystal Palace. Arsenal are still in dialogue with the 27-year-old’s representatives (Fabrizio Romano), though, so a move for Eze remains on the cards as we enter the final three weeks of the summer.

Interestingly, BBC journalist Sami Mokbel doesn’t see it happening unless Arsenal can sell players first, namely Leandro Trossard.

They’ve also been linked with Rennes defender Jérémy Jacquet recently, who’s believed to be debating his long-term future after Arsenal’s approach for the 20-year-old recently (Graeme Bailey).

In a major boost for Arteta, the north Londoners brought an end to their long search for a new number nine.

Viktor Gyokeres sealed a blockbuster move from Sporting CP to the Emirates Stadium late last month, in a deal worth up to £64 million with bonuses included following weeks of back-and-forth negotiations.

It’s a major statement from Berta, who was thought to be a big admirer of the 27-year-old and prioritised him over fellow top striker target at the time, Benjamin Sesko (Simon Phillips).

Gyökeres netted 54 goals in all competitions last season – numbers that made Europe’s elite take notice, but Arsenal ultimately won the race.

He arrives as the long-term solution through the middle, and has been handed the iconic No.14 shirt, once worn by Thierry Henry. Gyökeres has big shoes to fill, and the Sweden international will be desperate to get off the mark as soon as possible.

Arsenal needed firepower, and they’ve got it.

Interestingly, Berta was actually handed the chance to sign another rival centre-forward before agreeing a deal for Gyokeres.

Arsenal's response after being offered Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson

That man was Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson, who’s now set to leave Stamford Bridge and become one of the next moving number nines in this summer’s striker domino (Fabrizio Romano).

According to CaughtOffside, Arsenal turned down the chance to sign Jackson this summer after being offered the chance to do a deal, which also comes as good news for Newcastle, who’ve held informal talks with the Senegalese and have less competition in pursuit of his signature, with Man United also signing Sesko.

The 24-year-old did command a valuation of £80-£100 million, according to Sky Sports, but it is now believed that Chelsea could sanction his sale closer to the £56 million mark.

Joe Cole has actually called Jackson one of Chelsea’s “most important” players, but their deals for Joao Pedro and Liam Delap means his place in the first team is no longer cut and dry, with an exit firmly on the cards.

It’s a curious thing, football’s summer transfer market. So much goes on, rumours and shocks zipping about like so many hoofed clearances in a Sunday League match.

For Liverpool fans, the window has been not so much curious as chaotic, with Arne Slot’s side undergoing an incredible transformation after marching to last year’s Premier League title.

Trent Alexander-Arnold up and left for Real Madrid toward the end of his contract, and so Liverpool signed Jeremie Frimpong. But it is Frimpong’s Bayer Leverkusen teammate Florian Wirtz who is the Scouser’s true heir, signed on for a British-record £116m fee and heralded as “the best midfielder in the world” by former Werkself striker Patrick Helmes. Wirtz, for sure, is a world-class playmaker.

Milos Kerkez and Giorgi Mamardashvili both arrived too. And then along came Hugo Ekitike, leaving Eintracht Frankfurt for Anfield for a £69m initial fee. The 23-year-old has the potential to become one of the best strikers in the world.

But with Darwin Nunez a priority target for Al Hilal, sporting director Richard Hughes has set his focus on Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak.

Why Liverpool might not sign Alexander Isak

Oh, he’s the dream, all right. However, prising Isak away from St. James’ Park this summer will be no easy feat, even though he’s desperate to wrap up his Newcastle career and join the Reds on Merseyside.

Could Liverpool pull it off? Certainly, if Isak is to join Slot’s side this summer, it would require a fee eclipsing that which Leverkusen have chequed in for Wirtz, with Newcastle valuing him somewhere in the ballpark of £150m.

The Premier League champions have already seen a formal offer worth £110m knocked back last week, though this was likely a negotiating tactic from Hughes and FSG to unsettle a player whose heart lies in Liverpool, and who refused to travel with the Toon for their pre-season tour in Asia.

The 25-year-old has now returned to Newcastle’s training facilities and is set for face-to-face talks with Howe.

Last season, pundit Jamie Carragher called Isak “the best striker in the Premier League”, and his 27-goal contribution across Newcastle’s title-winning campaign displays merely the tip of the iceberg of a wide-ranging and expansive skill set.

He’s the dream target, and understandably so. However, Liverpool might fail; Newcastle might fail to find and sign an acceptable replacement.

Thus, an alternative has been lined up.

Liverpool target favouring move to Anfield

According to ESPN, Real Madrid’s Rodrygo has made it known to his entourage that he would prefer to sign for Liverpool this summer, should he have to depart from the Santiago Bernabeu.

Rodrygo is no longer considered one of Real Madrid’s untouchable superstars, but Los Blancos will only cash in if their valuation is met, with £78m the figure touted.

Tottenham Hotspur are also keen on Xabi Alonso’s Brazilian star, and with Heung-min Son set to sign for LAFC in the MLS, FSG will need to make a swift decision as to whether they forge ahead with a bid.

Why Liverpool should sign Rodrygo

Should Liverpool fail to sign Isak this summer, there’s a case to be made that Rodrygo could be the perfect alternative, and that’s despite him being more of a wide forward than a focal frontman.

Right winger

146

34

31

Centre-forward

84

22

8

Left winger

78

23

16

Attacking midfield

4

–

1

Hailed as “the most talented and the most gifted player” in Real Madrid’s squad by teammate Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo is renowned for his tenacious and industrious work-rate, his technical quality, and his ability to shift between multiple positions.

There’s no question that he could shift between wide and central positions in a manner not dissimilar to Luis Diaz, who last week completed a £65.5m transfer to Bayern Munich.

Diaz operated in a makeshift centre-forward berth under Slot’s guidance last term, notching eight goals and an assist from 15 fixtures in the role.

So then, we can see that Rodrygo, a goalscoring wide forward, could emulate the Colombian, whose crispness in possession is also a factor of note.

But then the same can be said of Real Madrid’s versatile forward, who ranked last season among the top 2% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues for pass completion, as per FBref.

Moreover, he missed just one big chance in La Liga last season, as per Sofascore. Albeit he only scored six times after a disappointing year. Given that Rodrygo was routinely played on the right flank, his unfavoured position, such woes are provided some important context.

This all points toward Rodrygo being the perfect, if somewhat left-field, alternative to Isak, for he could replace Diaz while providing a different dimension to Slot’s central striking area too.

Liverpool have, of course, welcomed Ekitike to the fold, and so have a new out-and-out striker to replace Nunez. The Frenchman scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists across all competitions for Frankfurt last season, and pundit Owen Hargreaves said last season that he “looks like the perfect centre-forward.”

With this in mind, losing out on Isak wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world, not when FSG have succeeded in packaging Slot’s squad with such a wide array of elite-level quality.

Rodrygo is one of Real Madrid’s “world-class superstars”, so says the great Luka Modric, after all, and he’s demonstrated that he has the ability to score and to assist and to come up with big-game defining moments with regularity.

For the moment, it seems as if Liverpool will continue to push for Newcastle’s star striker, but should they fail to break the British transfer record for a second time this summer, it might be worth advancing with a deal for Rodrygo, whose qualities suggest he could become a multi-positional machine for the Anfield side as they chase down more illustrious success.

Rangers transfer business so far this summer has been solid under Russell Martin as he embarks on his maiden season in charge of the club.

A couple impressed during the 2-0 win over Greek side Panathinaikos in the Champions League qualifier on Tuesday evening, with winger Djeidi Gassama scoring the crucial second goal with a smart finish.

It was a positive second half display by the Ibrox side, and they now have one foot in the next round of qualifiers.

The likes of Max Aarons, Nasser Djiga, Thelo Aasgaard and Joe Rothwell all look excellent signings for the Light Blues, but Martin wont be stopping there when it comes to adding more players.

Others have been linked with a move to the club of late, with names such as Luuk de Jong, Salvatore Esposito and even Jamie Vardy being touted over potential moves to Glasgow.

Much will depend on the money Martin has at his disposal, as he could be waiting for a few players to depart before eyeing any further move.

Robin Propper has completed his move back to former club FC Twente, which will free up some of the wage bill.

One player who has been linked heavily with a move to Rangers is Crystal Palace winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi. Signing the player would signify a statement of intent by Martin, no doubt about that.

What Martin has said about Rak-Sakyi deal

The Palace winger is of interest to the club and Martin has stated that he has tried to sign him previously.

“He’s a player I liked at Southampton. We tried to take him there and it didn’t quite happen,” said Martin amid the links to the youngster. “So, he’s a player I like and I think he’s a player the recruitment staff like. But, how far that’s gone, I’m not too sure.”

A few days ago, Rangers made an offer to Palace for the 22-year-old. The proposed deal was for Rak-Sakyi to move to Ibrox on a season-long loan ahead of making the move permanent next summer for a fee worth up to £10m.

This was rejected by the Premier League outfit and it remains to be seen whether Martin will adopt a different strategy or move on to other targets.

Last term, the Englishman spent a spell on loan with Sheffield United in the Championship. He scored seven goals and grabbed two assists for the Blades, but it wasn’t enough to see them secure promotion back to the top flight.

Improving his wide options is something Martin is keen to do before the transfer window shuts. A move for Rak-Sakyi would certainly be an interesting one, especially given how much the club were willing to pay for him permanently.

He is certainly a talented player, yet during his spell with Palace, he has made just ten senior appearances, registering zero goal contributions.

Appearances

43

34

Starts

40

22

Goals

15

7

Minutes per goal

233

248

Big chances created

5

3

Key passes per game

1.3

0.9

Assists

8

2

Should any proposed move cool down in the coming weeks, Martin could perhaps go after an alternative option – Abu Kamara.

Rangers’ search for a new winger

While Gassama may have been signed, bringing another wide player into the squad could prove advantageous for Martin and his team. A few weeks ago, it was reported via Sky Sports that the Gers were weighing up a potential offer to sign Hull City star Kamara.

Due to Hull’s financial issues, any deal for Kamara – who joined his current side for £4m last year – would likely be a cut-price one, which could suggest this is a more likely move to go ahead compared to the Rak-Sakyi one.

Furthermore, he is a year younger than the Palace starlet, and he also played in the Championship last season.

Given Palace’s demands for their young talent, perhaps a move for Kamara is the more feasible option out of the two. If so, Martin could forget all about Rak-Sakyi, as Kamara has all the attributes which could see him shine for the Light Blues this season.

Why Rangers want to sign Abu Kamara

Throughout his embryonic career thus far, Kamara has already racked up 95 senior appearances for Hull, Portsmouth and Norwich, scoring 16 goals and grabbing 15 assists for these clubs.

Despite being a year older, Rak-Sakyi has made the same number of senior appearances, although he has scored 22 goals and grabbed 11 assists in the process.

With the two players starring in the second tier last season, it is important to measure how they performed to see who stood out in a range of statistics.

Indeed, Kamara registered a shots on target percentage of 38.9%, while also recording 74 shot-creating actions, taking 494 touches in the final third, completing 519 carries and delivering 55 crosses into the opposition penalty area.

In comparison, Rak-Sakyi registered a shots on target percentage of 34.8% in the Championship last term, along with generating 71 shot-creating actions, taking 405 touches in the final third, completing 427 carries and delivering 34 crosses into the box.

As you can see, Kamara has better stats across all of these performance metrics compared to the Palace winger.

Kamara even created more big chances in the second tier last season compared to Rak-Sakyi (seven vs three) and missed fewer big chances (five vs six), suggesting that he was the better creator of opportunities.

Former teammate Conor Shaughnessy lavished plenty of praise on Kamara during their spell at Portsmouth, saying that “he will be dangerous on the right wing for them” when referencing his return to Hull City after his loan spell.

There is no doubt Kamara will get better as time goes on and experiencing European football at Ibrox will certainly aid his development.

Rak-Sakyi would be a fine signing, especially given his talent. But for the fee mentioned, it looks as though this deal could drag on throughout the summer.

In Kamara, Martin could sign someone who has demonstrated better stats in the same league as the Palace starlet, and he would be available for a cheaper price.

Watch this space.

Rangers target now up for sale in long-term deal after loan-to-buy offer

The youngster is up for sale…

ByBrett Worthington Jul 25, 2025

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank is a real fan of one Aston Villa star, and the Lilywhites are reportedly prepared to offer him something key which could well tempt him to north London.

Related Real Madrid "now expected" to make concrete move for £165k-a-week Tottenham star

Xabi Alonso’s side are big fans of the player.

Posts ByEmilio Galantini Jul 3, 2025

Spurs are poised to make J League sensation Kota Takai their second summer signing after a permanent deal for Mathys Tel, with the 20-year-old expected to undergo his medical at the club next week (Luca Bendoni, Sky Italia).

Tottenham’s best-performing regulars in the Premier League – 2024/2025

Average match rating

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

The centre-back was identified by technical director Johan Lange, and there is hope within Tottenham that Takai could eventually replicate the journeys of Lucas Bergvall, Destiny Udogie and Pape Sarr as promising young players who are now crucial to the first team (Alasdair Gold).

Tottenham will pay a record fee for a Japanese player from the J League, around £5 million, but supporters will be hopeful that they could sign a few more senior players as well.

Frank’s side will be competing in the Champions League next season, and they’re in dire need of proven reinforcements to bolster their Premier League squad ahead of another congested fixture calendar.

Tottenham are known to be in talks for West Ham winger Mohammed Kudus, as reported by trusted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano and other reliable media outlets, with the Ghanaian also apparently keen on a switch to N17.

However, Kudus is not the only Premier League ace garnering their attention.

Tottenham boss Thomas Frank wants Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey

Speaking to Football Insider, former Spurs scout and Daniel Levy employee, Mick Brown, has shared information on their interest in £40 million Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey.

Spurs have been linked with a move for the Englishman in the last few days, but Brown says Frank is a personal admirer of Ramsey, and Tottenham are prepared to offer him more top-flight minutes, which could turn his head.

“Jacob Ramsey has to make a decision,” said Brown.

“In his own mind, he’ll weigh up whether he thinks he’s going to be a regular in the Villa team. If that’s not the case, he has to ask the same question about whether he would be at Tottenham.

“From what I hear, Spurs would be prepared to offer him more minutes from the start of games than he is currently getting at Villa. If that is the case, I’m sure he would be happy to make that move.

“He’s had doubts about whether he’s going to be a regular starting XI player at Villa, or if he’s going to be better served moving somewhere else. So a move to Tottenham would be a fresh start and a new environment for him. There have been a few questions about what his future at Villa might look like, because the manager isn’t certain he’s going to be a big part of the plans.

“That opens the door for Spurs, because Thomas Frank rates him, and he’s one they’ve been interested in for a while.”

The versatile 24-year-old has made 167 senior appearances for Villa already, and possesses that unique blend of both youth and experience. Taking this into account, Ramsey could be an excellent option to reinforce Frank’s midfield whilst providing first-teamers with more competition for places.

Strength in depth will be vital for Frank next season, so this is a move which could tick a few boxes.

Rashid Khan starred with the ball for Afghanistan but their batters fell short against India’s attack

Alagappan Muthu20-Jun-20241:18

Manjrekar: SKY showed his value on a tricky pitch

There were geniuses at play in Bridgetown, wearing the India blue as they cruised to victory in their first Super Eight game against Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup 2024. The pitch, once again, was tough to bat on: slow and offering purchase to everyone willing to roll their fingers across the ball. Suryakumar Yadav, though, found a way to prosper as he often does in T20 cricket, helping his team post an above-par total of 181 for 7. That brought Jasprit Bumrah into the fray and he immediately set about dismantling Afghanistan, his two early strikes leaving them indisposed for the rest of the chase.The old guardVirat Kohli and Rohit Sharma did not play a single T20I between the end of the previous World Cup in 2022 and January this year. But they’re here now because they want that medal around their neck. They want to be world champions. And to that end, they’ve been open to batting in a different way. Rohit made only 8 off 13 but he looked to hit a boundary off six of those balls. Kohli was going smoothly but he wasn’t willing to settle for that. He looked to hit Rashid Khan for six and got caught.After being burned in big matches for being too conservative, India have ditched the safety-first approach. And the reason for that played out in the middle overs of this game. When Kohli fell, ESPNcricinfo’s Forecaster had their total tracking down by 18 runs to 171. In the space of a mere six balls, the other batters had it tracking back up by the same number of runs. India were set to reach 189 now. That’s how quickly a game can change in this format. That’s why it’s better to have tried and failed than not try and all.Surya on songIt’s possible India knew this all along but were holding back because they weren’t comfortable with the options they had down the order. That’s changed now because their best T20 batter mans the No. 4 position.Suryakumar played some special shots – not in the way you usually associate with, where he finds a soft spot in the laws of physics and mercilessly pokes holes in them. But more in terms of just knowing his areas and trusting his skill. Even the one time when he made jaws drop to the floor – dragging Azmatullah Omarzai from somewhere off the wide line to the square-leg boundary – he was just trying to put away a full toss. The legside was the shorter boundary. It just made sense.Jasprit Bumrah struck off his second ball against Afghanistan and finished with 3 for 7•CREIMASSuryakumar focused on three things while he was out there. Sweep to mess with the wristspinners. He played four and each of them resulted in a boundary. Smash whenever the quicks went too full. He struck a six that sailed into the three Ws stand and held his pose. Worrell, Weeks and Walcott would’ve loved that. Finally swipe – after making sure to hold his shape – when they went slower ball. First time he tried it, he got beaten. Second time, he nearly hit the ball out of the ground. This was a classic case of an attacking batter paring down his options to just those he knew would succeed in the conditions.Suryakumar was box office, even without bat in hand. In between the innings, he admitted that he was nervous. “I began chewing my gum harder when Kohli got out.” But he knew he couldn’t let himself be bogged down. “It was important to keep the intent up.” India do not want to fall into the same traps as before. This World Cup, they’re going to bat like they have a full ten wickets to spare.Bumrah on fireHe has twice as many wickets as he’s conceded boundaries (8 vs 4) in this T20 World Cup. Bumrah is undeniably India’s most important player. He came on to bowl after Rahmanullah Gurbaz had struck a lion’s share of the 13 runs in the first over of the chase. He had seen, in the first innings, that slower balls had been mighty effective (five wickets for 30 runs at an economy rate of 7.2). Immediately, he dialled one up and also shifted his line real wide to deny Gurbaz the straight hit that he likes so much. Assessing the conditions and the opposition to that degree that quickly is the reason why he is an all-format great. He gave away only seven runs, the second-fewest by an Indian bowling four overs in a T20I.There were further positives as well. Kuldeep Yadav, back in the XI to exploit favourable conditions, picked up 2 for 32. Axar Patel began with a wicket-maiden in the powerplay. Ravindra Jadeja had a good run out as well. And Arshdeep recovered from a two-over spell for 22 runs to almost pick up a hat-trick in the dying moments.

Leeds United are making a move for an “incredible” striker, who knows he would be guaranteed to play every week under Daniel Farke next season, according to a report.

Leeds eyeing new signings with top-level experience

Ipswich Town, Leicester City and Southampton all suffered relegation in their first season back in the Premier League last season, underlining the need for Leeds to bring in proven players, and they have now set their sights on several options with top-level experience.

Amid doubts over Illan Meslier, Bayern Munich goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, who is “proven” in the Champions League, has emerged as an option between the sticks, while recent Premier League title winner Kostas Tsimikas may replace Junior Firpo at left-back.

Ipswich being relegated, despite Liam Delap’s form, goes to show that having a top striker is not always enough to avoid the drop, but Farke will be under no illusions about the need to sign a proven goalscorer, and the Whites are now stepping up their pursuit of a new striker.

Related Leeds now keen on signing "brilliant" Liverpool-born player with 3 England caps

The Whites are now interested in signing a Premier League player, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer.

Posts 3 ByDominic Lund May 27, 2025

According to a report from The Sun, Leeds have made a move for Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson, who has been widely linked with a move away from St. James’ Park upon the expiration of his £46k-a-week contract this summer.

Since arriving at Newcastle from AFC Bournemouth in a £20m deal, Wilson has maintained a solid goal record for the Magpies, but there is now growing interest from rival Premier League clubs, with Everton boss David Moyes thought to be keen to snap him up.

Despite the interest from the Toffees, the Championship title-winners are hopeful they can win the race for the striker, ‘as he would be guaranteed to play every week under Farke.’

"Incredible" Wilson could reignite career at Leeds

Almost any striker in world football would find it difficult to displace Alexander Isak in the starting XI, which is one of the reasons why the Englishman has found game time hard to come by in recent times, alongside various injury issues.

However, should the former Bournemouth man be able to put his injury problems behind him, there are plenty of signs he could play a major role in helping Leeds avoid the drop next season.

Prior to the 2024-25 campaign, the 33-year-old, called “incredible” by Eddie Howe, was a consistent source of goals for both Bournemouth and Newcastle, regularly finding the back of the net in the Premier League.

Season

Appearances

PL Goals

2019-20

35

8

2020-21

26

12

2021-22

18

8

2022-23

31

18

2023-24

20

9

However, there will, understandably, be concerns about Wilson’s age and injury record, with the forward sidelined for over half of Newcastle’s games throughout the 2024/25 campaign, so he will only be a worthwhile addition for Leeds if he is able to improve his fitness, making this one to keep an eye on.