Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is still looking to bolster Spurs’ attacking ranks before the transfer deadline in four days’ time, and given their previous luck this window, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them scrambling till the eleventh hour.
Thomas Frank watched on as his side failed to secure the signings of Morgan Gibbs-White and Eberechi Eze, both in spectacular fashion.
Gibbs-White saw his once-advanced move to N17 blocked by Nottingham Forest, who wrote a letter to Spurs threatening legal action, as weeks of back and forth between the clubs ensued before the 25-year-old signed a new contract regardless.
Meanwhile, Tottenham were convinced they’d land Eze at one stage – having agreed personal terms with the player and the finances of a deal with Crystal Palace – only for Arsenal to swoop in and hijack the transfer.
Their need for a number 10 is glaring, having lost both Dejan Kulusevski to a knee injury earlier this year and James Maddison to an ACL rupture in pre-season.
FFC Spurs – James Maddison
At one point, Frank was planning to head into 25/26 with a fully fit Maddison and Gibbs-White, only to now have neither. In an ideal world, it’s been reported that the Dane would like two new playmakers (Gary Jacob), but that scenario looks near-impossible barring a last-gasp miracle.
In terms of who they could bring in, Spurs are in the market for a new centre-back, number 10 and a winger.
One of the playmakers on their radar is West Ham United’s Lucas Paqueta, and the Hammers are reportedly open to selling, if their asking price is met, and they can source a replacement (Paul O’Keefe).
The Brazil international would be Spurs’ second signing of the window from their London rivals after a £55m deal for Mohammed Kudus, which also ended an unofficial transfer embargo between the two clubs spanning 14 years.
Tottenham offered Yves Bissouma in swap deal for Lucas Paqueta
According to TBR Football and journalist Graeme Bailey, Levy and the Spurs recruitment team actually made a unique proposal for Paqueta recently, involving Galatasaray-linked Yves Bissouma.
Bailey reports that Tottenham offered Bissouma in a direct swap deal for the Brazil international, and the talks centered around Paqueta going the other way on a straight loan.
Bissouma also would’ve departed for the London Stadium on a dry temporary deal, but it is believed that negotiations didn’t progress to the final details and the Mali international has now agreed to join Galatasaray instead.
According to other reports, West Ham want £60 million to part company with Paqueta, so Spurs will need to head back to the negotiating table.
قدم النادي الأهلي، بشكل رسمي المدير الفني الجديد، الدنماركي ياس سوروب، في مؤتمر صحفي اليوم الجمعة، لتوضيح خطته مع القلعة الحمراء في الفترة القادمة.
وكان النادي الأهلي، أتم الاتفاق مع المدرب الدنماركي ياس سوروب، لتولي تدريب الفريق الأول لكرة القدم بالنادي الأهلي، لمدة عامين ونصف.
وقال ياس سوروب خلال المؤتمر الصحفي: “أشكر الجميع على الحضور، شرف كبير لي أن أكون جزءًا من النادي الأهلي العظيم والكبير”.
وأضاف: “أتيحت لي فرصة مقابلة الكابتن محمود الخطيب، رئيس النادي الأهلي، وتحدثنا سويًا في مركز الهجوم بحكم أني كنت مهاجمًا وهو كذلك”.
وتابع: “أعلم الكثير عن تاريخ الأهلي، وأعرف أن هدفه هو تحقيق الفوز دائمًا، هذا ما أتيت من أجله لتحقيقه مع الفريق”.
وواصل: “تعودت التواجد في أندية تبحث عن الفوز، وفي نفس الوقت سأبذل قصارى جهدي لتطوير النادي واللاعبين سأبذل قصارى جهدي للحفاظ على تاريخ النادي ومتشوق للعمل مع الفريق وأبدأ عملي، لأني أعلم بأن لدي مباراة بعد 8 أيام”.
وأكمل: “أبحث فقط عن الفوز وتحقيق الألقاب وجئت إلى النادي الأهلي من أجل هذا الأمر تعودت أكون جزءًا كبيرًا من فرق كبيرة تبحث عن الفوز وتتأهل إلى البطولات الأوروبية أعلم بأنها مهمة صعبة لكني معتاد على هذا الأمر، جئت لتحقيق الامجاد مع النادي الأهلي”.
وأردف: “تابعت بعض المباريات للنادي الأهلي في الفترة الماضية سواء في كأس العالم للأندية أو مباريات الدوري، من أجل تحليل الأداء وأعرف ماذا أحتاج في الفترة المقبلة، سوف أساعد الفريق على تطوير الأداء”.
وأستكمل: “الأهلي خاض 3 مباريات في كأس العالم للأندية وقدم مجهودًا مميزًا للغاية، من الممكن أنه لم يحقق النتائج التي يُريدها لكني موجود لكي أساعدهم أنا مسؤول عن تحقيق الإنجازات في الفترة المقبلة، ومساعدة الفريق على التطوير”.
طالع | وليد صلاح الدين: صلاحيات سيد عبد الحفيظ إضافة لـ الأهلي.. وقرار الخطيب أقلقني
وعن تفضيل عرض الأهلي، أوضح: “كان لدي الكثير من العروض في الشهر الماضي، عندما أكون مدربًا في أحد الدوريات الأوروبية وهو الدوري الألماني فطبيعي أن أتلقى عروض بكل تأكيد ستصل لي عروض من جميع أنحاء العالم، كانت المرة الأول منذ أسابيع أن أعرف عن اهتمام الأهلي بالتعاقد معي قلبي أبلغني بعدما سمعت العرض بأنني أريد أن أسمع الكثير عن هذا العرض، وبعد ذلك كان هناك وفد من النادي الأهلي جاء للدنمارك لإقناعي بتدريب النادي، فخور لأنني سأكون جزء ًامن كيان النادي الأهلي، إن شاء الله سأحقق نتائج، ومن المهم أن أعرف عن ثقافة جديدة أعرف جيدًا”.
عن الضغط التي تتسبب فيه وسائل الإعلام للنادي الأهلي، قال: “سمعت عن حجم النادي وشعبيته التي تتخطى 70 مليون مصري أعرف قيمة النادي الأهلي العظيمة، وحجم شعبيته، وهناك اهتمام إعلامي كبير وهذا من الممكن أن يشكل ضغطا كبيرا علي، ولكن سيكون من الخارج وليس من الداخل ما يهمني هو النجاح الذي سأكون قادرًا على تحقيقه مع فريقي، وأنا مؤمن بأن ما أفعله هو الشيئ الصحيح”.
وعن التعامل مع الإعلام، أستكمل: “سأكون جاهزًا للرد على أي سؤال من الإعلام، وأتمنى أنه عندما يحدث بيننا محادثات أن أرد عليه، وأعد الإعلام بالرد بصراحة وأن أكون أمينًا سيكون بيننا علاقة إنسانية، وأعلم بأن هذا بالنسبة لكم شيئ مهم”.
وعن الاستعداد لمباراة إيجل نوار البوروندي في دوري أبطال إفريقيا وعدد كبير من اللاعبين غير متواجد بسبب الانضمام إلى المنتخب، تحدث قائلاً: “أولًا أقدم التهنئة لمنتخب مصر على التأهل لكأس العالم 2026 أعلم جيدًا أن هناك عددا كبيرا من لاعبي النادي الأهلي متواجدين في معسكر منتخب مصر وهو أمر يعكس جودة النادي هذا الأمر ليس بجديد علي لقد اعتدت على تولي تدريب الأندية التي تنضم لمنتخباتها”.
واستطرد: “أثق بأنه سيكون لدي الوقت لتحديد كيفية اللعب مع الفريق من الطبيعي أن أي مدرب عندما يتولى تدريب فريق أن يتواجد قبل بداية الموسم، ولكن هذا الأمر غير متوافر حاليًا وأعلم بأن هناك مباراة قادمة بعد أيام قليلة، وبعد عودة اللاعبين الدوليين سيكون هناك تدريبات معهم”.
وأتم: “لقد شاهدت على السوشيال ميديا بعض الصور لي مع الثنائي المصري محمود أبو الدهب وعبد الستار صبري الذان كان يلعبان معي في النمسا، على الرغم من مرور السنين، أنا متذكر تلك الأوقات، أتمني رؤيتهم قريبًا”.
Laura Wolvaardt, Smitri Mandhana, and Katie Mack all play important innings to set up a good total
AAP19-Nov-2024Adelaide Strikers put a severe dent in the WBBL finals hopes of the Perth Scorchers with a 30-run victory as Megan Schutt put on a masterclass.Strikers posted 169 for 6, with Laura Wolvaardt, Smriti Mandhana, and Katie Mack the chief contributors at Karen Rolton Oval. Scorchers slumped to 17 for 4 as Schutt ran through the top order, leaving their finals chances hanging precariously.With two games left, Scorchers remain in fifth spot with eight points and they trail fourth-placed Hobart Hurricanes by a sizeable run rate difference.Strikers, champions of the past two tournaments, climbed from bottom of the ladder to seventh – they have six points but just one match remaining.Strikers were sent into bat openers Mandhana and Mack made an instant impact, taking 40 from the initial four overs. They reached 81 in the 10th over when Mandhana was caught at mid-off from the bowling of Sophie Devine, ending a knock featuring five fours and a six.Just eight balls later, Mack advanced down the pitch but was beaten by a perfectly flighted delivery from legspinner Alana King and was stumped.Wolvaardt soon took centre stage with her rapid-fire innings featuring three fours and three sixes – two from consecutive balls from Chloe Ainsworth.The South African was caught on the cover boundary with three balls remaining and King finished with another stumping on the last ball, giving her figures of 3 for 29.Scorchers’ run chase began terribly with Maddy Darke bowled by Schutt second ball. And in the third over, Schutt struck with consecutive deliveries, dismissing Dayalan Hemalatha and bowling Amy Edgar for a golden duck with a top-shelf inswinger, to boast figures of 3 for 6.Schutt was denied a hat-trick by Scorchers stalwart Beth Mooney, who fell in the next over for 6 as the Scorchers crashed to 17 for 4 from 3.3 overs. Skipper Devine and new signing Brooke Halliday rallied but the task was beyond them.
NZ captain scored 86 after Santner bagged 7 for 53, with visitors ending day two 301 runs ahead
Sidharth Monga25-Oct-20243:12
Why have India’s batters struggled in home Tests?
New Zealand 259 and 198 for 5 (Latham 86, Blundell 30*, Washington 4-56) lead India 156 (Jadeja 38, Santner 7-53, Phillips 2-26) by 301 runsNew Zealand took massive strides towards doing the unthinkable: not just their first Test series win in India, but also India’s first series defeat at home in 12 years. Mitchell Santner, who had never taken four wickets in an innings before this Test, and with just one first-class five-for to his name, tied India to the crease and took seven wickets to bowl India out for 156. The batters, led by Tom Latham, did some efficient front-running by attacking the Indian spinners to end the day with a lead of 301 runs with five wickets in hand.India have only twice overturned a lead of 100 to win a Test: the great Kolkata Test in 2000-01, and a successful chase of over 400 in Port-of-Spain in 1976, for long the highest in Test cricket. They found themselves in this situation because their legendary spinners were outbowled by two who came into the match with two first-class five-fors between them. Glenn Phillips was Santner’s partner in crime, taking out the two dangerous left-hand batters, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant.Santner bowled unchanged through the day for 17.3 overs. Six of his victims were either bowled or lbw as he kept attacking the stumps with balls behaving differently from the same spot. This wasn’t quite the square turner that India lost their last Pune Test on – against Australia in 2016-17 – but there was enough turn and enough variation in turn to not allow India the ultra-aggressive approach they have employed this home season.Right from the first three balls of the day, the challenge for India was apparent. From the same spot, the first one turned lesser than expected, the second one went straight on but Shubman Gill survived the umpire’s call, and the third one turned big past the outside edge. There was not just turn, but also quick turn and natural variations from the surface.India had batting till No. 9, but on such pitches, the depth doesn’t mean much. So accurate was Santner that it took just 47 false shots to run through India. For the first half hour, though, New Zealand’s patience and belief was tested. Gill managed to start breaking free with a six off Tim Southee after charging at him. Yashasvi Jaiswal drove Southee for a four, before Ajaz Patel, the lead spinner on paper, offered him another half volley.Sweeps, reverse sweeps, and the use of feet were all employed by Tom Latham and co•AFP/Getty ImagesBut it turned around for New Zealand in the 22nd over of the day when Santner again beat Gill with one that went straight on. This time the umpire’s call went the bowler’s way. As the 15 seconds on the DRS timer lapsed, the crowd broke into a big cheer. For the arrival of Virat Kohli. The joy for them was short-lived as Kohli soon missed a full toss, which he tried to mow to square leg. The ball did drift in from the initial line, but it was still a full toss that Kohli would have dispatched almost every time had he played with a straighter bat.By now, the effect of the roller was wearing off. Batters were shanking even full balls – or those that they got close to – by using their feet. The ones that didn’t turn created further doubt. As it tends to happen at such times, fielders were everywhere: a hard sweep went straight into the shin of short leg, a short ball stopped and turned, and the pressure kept mounting.With two left-hand batters in the middle, Latham went to Phillips post the first drinks break. It took Phillips four balls to turn one and take Jaiswal’s edge to slip. Rishabh Pant, who had been kept quiet with in-out fields, then went to pull one that was only slightly short of a length. The ball stayed low and bowled him, drawing an inaudible invective that might end up hitting Pant in the wallet.Sarfaraz Khan, who had shown proficiency against spin in Bengaluru, soon found out that the margin for error was little in Pune. If you had to attack, you needed everything to go right. He tried to go inside-out to a really full ball, and it still spooned just over cover. His sweep was blocked, and brought him just singles. Eventually, he tried to the clear the deepish mid-off without getting to the pitch of the ball, a reminder of Phillips’ dismissal on day one. A shooter then did R Ashwin in, the first time Santner went past three wickets in a Test innings.Washington Sundar completed only his second ten-wicket match haul in first-class cricket•BCCIIndia had lost 6 wickets for 53 runs, and so far ahead were New Zealand that they could afford to make a DRS error and have Ajaz bowl to two left-hand batters four overs for 32 runs. Meanwhile, Santner kept attacking the stumps and kept producing enough chances. Only some hitting from Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar took India past 150.A lead of 103 here was a far worse scenario than the 356 in Bengaluru because this pitch was only going to get worse and India would have to bat last. Latham paddle-swept the first ball. A backward short leg came in to block that shot, and he cover-drove a boundary. Rohit Sharma was now just chasing the ball because you can’t react when you trail by so much on a turning pitch.The taking down of two of India’s greatest match-winners was clinical. Sweeps, reverse sweeps, and the use of feet were all employed. Ashwin’s first spell went for 33 in six overs, and Jadeja went for 24 in three. Washington, at the other end, kept picking up wickets. Devon Conway edged a sweep on to the pad, but didn’t review the lbw decision. So far ahead were New Zealand.Once they had got off to a start and the field had spread, Latham pitched his tent for a long innings while the others batted more briskly around him. Washington went on to convert his first-innings seven-for into only his second ten-wicket match haul in first-class cricket, but New Zealand found runs easier to come by at the other end. Latham missed out on a century, but he had brought New Zealand to a great position.
Manchester City have enacted a sea change involving their squad this summer and Pep Guardiola could now be about to make a bold move for a Real Madrid ace.
Man City see plates spin in transfer market
The Citizens are known for their swift approach to negotiations and their speedy nature has led to the capture of Sverre Nypan from Rosenborg on a five-year deal.
Speaking after becoming Manchester City’s latest signing, the versatile 18-year-old stated: “I am incredibly happy and proud to have joined Manchester City. It’s a dream for any young footballer to become part of this club and to join such a group of world class talent.
Manchester City manager PepGuardiolabefore the match
“I am still very young with a lot to learn but the chance to be coached by Pep Guardiola, the best manager in the world, will only help me to become a better player.”
Nevertheless, legendary Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson could soon be set for Galatasaray after enduring a drop-off in performances last season and may potentially be joined by Ilkay Gundogan in the Turkish capital.
Acting to secure his replacement, contact has been made between the Citizens and Burnley over James Trafford, who could complete an unexpected return to the Eithad Stadium courtesy of a £40 million buyback clause included in his deal at Turf Moor.
Arsenal beat Man City and Liverpool to sign "highly-rated" forward after bid
Mikel Arteta is poised to win the race.
ByEmilio Galantini Jul 17, 2025
Newcastle United had long been thought of as the natural next destination for the England Under-21 international, though Manchester City mean business this window, and it doesn’t appear that they are likely to care about feathers ruffled along the way.
Having said that, recent noises do back up the notion that Guardiola is keen on a first-choice goalkeeper, but it may not be Trafford between the sticks after all come the start of competitive action.
Man City set to offer £50m+ package to land Andriy Lunin
According to reports in Spain, Manchester City would be willing to offer £52 million inclusive of add-ons for Andriy Lunin as the Ukraine international continues to be behind Thibaut Courtois in the pecking order at Real Madrid.
The 26-year-old would be open to a move given his situation and desire to play a ‘leading’ role elsewhere, but his current employers see him as an important asset for the future and wouldn’t let him depart without a fight.
Andriy Lunin for Real Madrid in 2024/25 – La Liga (Fotmob)
Save percentage rate
65%
Goals conceded
7
Clean sheets
4
High claims
2
Pass accuracy
84.8%
Labelled a “complete goalkeeper” by RB Leipzig star Peter Gulacsi, Lunin made 14 appearances across all competitions last term for Real Madrid, keeping six clean sheets in the process.
Nevertheless, with Ederson now possibly on his way our, it may be time for a change of guard between the sticks at the Etihad Stadium and the Kharkiv-born man is emerging as a strong contender to become the Brazil international’s successor alongside links to Trafford.
Manchester City won’t be taking the Club World Cup trophy home with them after all, after a dramatic 4-3 loss to Al-Hilal in the pre-season tournament.
Pep Guardiola and Co.’s defensive frailties were clear for all to see when watching the back-and-forth knockout tie in Orlando, with the Citizens registering a bumper 30 shots in total, only to be undone in extra-time by Simone Inzaghi’s never-say-die side.
With the tournament now out of the way, City can press on with even more signings away from previously landing Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, and Rayan Ait-Nouri in quick succession, as the rumour mill begins to kick back into life.
Man City's transfer latest
It has been somewhat quiet on the transfer front from City’s point of view after landing all those high-profile names in quickfire fashion, with the main hot topic centring on Kevin De Bruyne finding a new club to call his home in Napoli, alongside Oscar Bobb reportedly being looked at by Serie A giants Juventus.
However, a new development seems to suggest City will be busy with another fresh incoming very soon.
Newcastle's Tino Livramento
Indeed, Football Insider’s Mick Brown has now revealed that City will accelerate a move for Newcastle United star Tino Livramento to join the Etihad ranks, with the Magpies defender now done with his England U21 international duties at the Euros.
Scouts had even been sent on City’s end to watch Livramento in action at the tournament as Guardiola’s men try and hunt down a long-term right-back replacement for Kyle Walker.
After lifting the Euros trophy, the in-the-spotlight 22-year-old’s summer could become even better if he seals a switch to the sky blue half of Manchester shortly, with Livramento’s attacking qualities playing out from defence in the Premier League potentially making him a perfect candidate to be Guardiola’s next João Cancelo.
Why Livramento can be Pep's next Cancelo
Cancelo was once a regular mainstay of the City XI, but in Orlando, he was having the last laugh over his ex-employers when contributing with an assist for Al-Hilal to down the Citizens 4-3.
Irrespective of this memorable contribution souring his relationship with his former side even more, the Portuguese full-back was a firm fan favourite previously, with nine goals and 22 assists coming his way from 154 appearances at the Etihad.
Three Premier League titles would even be lifted by the long-standing City servant before a move to Al-Hilal opened up, with Guardiola never fully recovering from Cancelo’s exit, arguably, having had to now force Matheus Nunes into an uncomfortable position down the right-hand side when he’s far more suited to a central midfield role.
This is where Livramento could well come to the rescue in offering the Spaniard a more reliable, attack-oriented option down the right resembling Cancelo at this peak, with their similarities not just ending there.
Livramento
RB
87
1
6
Livramento
LB
19
0
1
Cancelo
RB
247
13
44
Cancelo
LB
114
6
20
Much like the one-time Champions League winner, the promising 22-year-old can also comfortably slot into any side in the left-back spot away from just the right, as seen in his 19 career games lining up on the opposing channel.
The London-born defender is some way off hitting Cancelo’s elite level when you consider the table further, but with Ait-Nouri already making that left channel look his own at the Club World Cup – with two key passes registered from his 119 touches versus Al-Hilal – Guardiola would surely drop Livramento into any upcoming City team selections on the right.
Having also amassed 14 goal contributions further up the pitch in the right midfield position, this could really go down as a golden deal much like when Cancelo first entered the building, with Toon content creator Kendall Rowan once referring to the youngster as a “superstar.”
City clearly requires even more fresh blood after a reality check loss to Al-Hilal, with their next major buy perhaps coming in the form of snapping up Livramento for a substantial £60m.
Man City believe "excellent" £50k-p/w ace wants to join, bid being prepared
It has already been a summer of great change at Ibrox for Glasgow Rangers, with Russell Martin arriving as the new head coach and a new ownership group taking over.
Kevin Thelwell has also joined as the club’s new sporting director, whilst technical director Nils Koppen has moved on, and the changes may not be finished there.
There is also set to be some movement around the playing squad as Martin and Thelwell look to build a team that can compete for the Scottish Premiership title next season.
One player who is set to arrive at Ibrox in short order is Bournemouth full-back Max Aarons, who is due to join the Light Blues on a season-long loan from the Premier League outfit.
The former Norwich City star, who trained with Martin during their time together in Norfolk, will come in to provide competition for the starting right-back berth.
It will be interesting to see what the signing of Aarons will mean for club captain James Tavernier, who has been the first-choice right-back at Ibrox for ten seasons.
What the future may hold for James Tavernier
The 33-year-old star has one year left on his deal in Glasgow and said towards the end of this season that he is “settled” and is not looking beyond next summer yet.
This does not suggest that the English veteran is in a rush to move on from Ibrox during the current summer transfer window, after links to Trabzonspor and Al-Ettifaq last year.
Instead of pushing Tavernier out of the door with a year left on his contract, Martin should aim to keep hold of the defender to utilise his leadership skills whilst reducing his importance on the pitch.
The signing of Aarons could allow the skipper to explore the potential of being a centre-back option for Rangers moving forward, after five appearances in that position in the 2024/25 campaign.
James Tavernier as a centre-back
Vs Fenerbahce
1st leg
2nd leg
Clearances
9
12
Interceptions
0
1
Tackles
1
2
Dribbled past
0x
0x
Ground duels won
2/3
2/2
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, Tavernier caught the eye as a centre-back over two legs against Fenerbahce in the Europa League, as the Gers made their way through to the quarter-finals of the tournament.
This suggests that the potential is there for the experienced star to continue his career at Ibrox as a centre-back if he can continue to deliver impressive performances in that new role.
Whilst there is potential for Tavernier to reinvent himself to prolong his time in Glasgow, there is one Rangers defender who should be moved on this summer.
Rangers flop set for talks with Russell Martin
According to journalist Scott Burns, Dutch central defender Robin Propper is set to hold “talks” with Martin over his future at the club before the end of this week.
The reporter adds that the 31-year-old flop is due to return to pre-season training with the Light Blues this week, as they ramp up preparations for their Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos next month.
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Burns also reveals that FC Twente are keen to sign the centre-back this summer, one year after they sold him to the Scottish Premiership giants ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
Propper is now set to talk with Martin over a potential move away from Ibrox this week, and it remains to be seen what the manager’s thoughts on the situation are.
Given his performances in his debut season in Scotland and the fact that there is a club interested in signing him permanently, in FC Twente, the Light Blues head coach must allow the centre-back to leave Glasgow in the coming weeks.
Why Rangers should sell Robin Propper
The Dutch dud must go before Tavernier is moved on from Ibrox because the captain has more potential to be a useful player for Martin in the 2025/26 campaign, and potentially beyond that.
As aforementioned, the English ace has ten years of experience at Ibrox as the first-choice right-back and has the potential to reinvent himself as a centre-back, which means that he could provide value in multiple positions.
Being the club captain, Tavernier also brings leadership to the team and that can be valuable to Martin whether he is in the team or on the bench, as he is a big voice in the dressing room and commands respect.
Propper, meanwhile, does not have that element in his favour and does not have the positional versatility in his favour either, as he has only played as a centre-back for the Light Blues.
Former Gers ace Derek Ferguson noted that the defender was “struggling” with the physicality and intensity of Scottish football, as he was dribbled past 11 times in 22 starts in the Premiership.
Propper also struggled with the physicality involved in playing on the European stage for the Light Blues, as evidenced by his performances in the Europa League.
24/25 Europa League
Robin Propper
Appearances
10
Clean sheets
1
Tackles + interceptions per game
1.8
Dribbled past
4x
Ground duel success rate
45%
Aerial duel success rate
44%
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, the experienced defender was dominated in duels on the deck and in the air in the competition, which shows that opposition players found it too easy to get the better of him in physical contests.
These statistics and the criticism of his physicality in the Premiership suggest that Propper is simply not cut out to be a centre-back for Rangers as he is not suited to the style of football in Scotland.
At the age of 31, the Dutchman is not a young player with time on his side to develop and improve that part of his game, which is why the Light Blues must look to part ways with him this summer, especially before they look to move on from Tavernier.
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In fact, the captain’s foray into the centre-back position could result in him taking Propper’s place in the squad as an option in that area of the pitch for Martin next term.
Tottenham Hotspur could strike a summer reunion with one of their former players, and one who Mauricio Pochettino rated “very highly”, according to an update this week.
Spurs await season-defining Europa League final in Bilbao
Ange Postecoglou will soon face a blockbuster 90 minutes in Bilbao, which has the power to define his potential final season in charge of the Lilywhites.
Tottenham star clear he wants to join club as they hatch £84m transfer plan
Spurs face losing him to a big club.
3 ByEmilio Galantini May 14, 2025
Spurs play fellow Premier League strugglers Man United in the Europa League final on May 21, with the club’s first piece of major silverware in 17 years and qualification for next season’s Champions League all on the line.
Son Heung-min
7.05
Pedro Porro
6.98
James Maddison
6.98
Dominic Solanke
6.88
Dejan Kulusevski
6.83
via WhoScored
After Tottenham broke their record for most Premier League losses in a single season last weekend, Postecoglou could save face by clinching a precious trophy for Spurs, amid reports that the 59-year-old is likely to leave once the campaign has concluded (David Ornstein).
Unfortunately, following news of Dejan Kulusevski’s knee surgery, Postecoglou will be without a trio of his star midfielders, with the Swede joining both James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall on the injury list.
Injury absences have been a thorn in Tottenham’s side throughout 2024/2025, and they’ve seriously exposed the lack of depth in Postecoglou’s squad whilst emphasising the need for chairman Daniel Levy to acquire fresh faces.
Spurs will need to be clever when the summer window reopens, though, as they’re apparently likely to adopt a ‘sell to buy’ policy amid their lack of funds (The Telegraph).
Tottenham make contact with Southampton defender Kyle Walker-Peters
The free-agent market could be a fruitful pool of talent for the club, with ex-Spurs defender Kyle Walker-Peters currently set to leave Southampton on a Bosman once his contract expires on June 30.
A host of English sides are showing interest in Walker-Peters, who has arguably been one of the better performers in an otherwise dismal Saints side this term. According to journalist Graeme Bailey, in an interview with Leeds United News, Postecoglou’s side are among them.
Bailey states that Tottenham have held talks with Walker-Peters’ camp, but the competition for his signature will be rife.
“I’m told no decision just yet,” said Bailey on the Englishman’s future.
Southampton'sKyleWalker-Petersapplauds their fans after the match
“Leeds have had contact, but as we know they’re one of many clubs to be in touch with him. West Ham, Spurs, Everton, there’s loads. And some foreign clubs are lurking too. Can Leeds get him? Of course. But from what I can make out it’s going to be tough.”
While Spurs eventually let the right-back, described as a “beautiful” footballer by ex-Saints boss Russell Martin, depart in 2020 for around £12 million, Pochettino did shower Walker-Peters with praise during his time in the English capital.
“For me, he’s one of the best options,” said the Argentine about Walker-Peters in 2018.
“Like always, who deserves it more is going to play — you know me. I’m so happy with his performance. I’m so happy and so proud of how he managed the pressure. I’m very pleased and I talk very highly of him.”
Celtic want to move on a £16,000-a-week player this summer who feels hurt by manager Brendan Rodgers, and three clubs have been named as possible options.
Celtic gear up for summer with another treble on the cards
The Hoops and Rodgers are on course for another domestic treble after already sealing the Scottish League Cup and winning the Scottish Premiership ahead of rivals Rangers.
A Scottish Cup final triumph next Saturday against Aberdeen at Hampden Park will see Celtic seal another memorable campaign. However, after that, attention behind the scenes will quickly turn to the 2025/26 season.
Celtic set to receive major bids for "absolutely brilliant" 33-goal star
The Bhoys could have a decision to make.
1
By
Sean Markus Clifford
May 11, 2025
Left-back Kieran Tierney has already agreed to return to Celtic Park on a free transfer when his Arsenal deal expires, and he could be the first of many through the door in Glasgow.
Brøndby striker Mathias Kvistgaarden is once again being linked with a move to Celtic, whereas right-back Veljko Milosavljevic from Serbian champions Crvena zvezda is also of interest.
A plethora of incomings may see some players exit the club, and one who looks certain to depart is Luis Palma. The winger sent on loan to Olympiacos with an option to buy back in January, however, the Greek side won’t be making a move permanent in the summer.
Talking back in March, Palma said: “I’m still with them [Celtic]. As long as there’s no transfer, I’ll continue to be grateful to Celtic, but it’s time to defend Olympiacos.”
Now, a fresh report has suggested that the attacker may not be on the books at Celtic Park much longer.
Celtic transfer update on Luis Palma exit with 3 clubs potential destinations
With Olympiacos not exercising their option to sign Palma, Celtic need to work out what to do with the £16,000-a-week winger this summer.
A new update from Greece, relayed by Sport Witness, states that Celtic are no longer counting on Palma for next season and want to move him on ahead of the 2025/26 season, with the player himself also looking to leave as he feels he has been mistreated by Rodgers.
Panathinaikos, AEK Athens and PAOK FC, are all named as potential destinations for the Honduras international and a return to Greece ‘shouldn’t be ruled out’. During his time with Olympiacos, Palma hasn’t exactly caught the eye, managing just one goal and one assist in 12 appearances.
Luis Palma’s Celtic stats
Games
48
Goals
10
Assists
10
Minutes played
2,208
Trophies
4
Celtic paid £3.5m to sign the 25-year-old back in 2023 from Aris FC, and with his Parkhead contract not expiring until 2028, the Hoops will be looking to recoup as much of that figure as possible over the coming months, making this one to keep an eye on over the coming weeks.
La Liga leaders and Champions League semi-finalists Barcelona are readying a £30m+ offer to sign a Manchester United player.
Players who could leave Man Utd this summer
It has been a difficult 2024/25 campaign for the Red Devils and Ruben Amorim, who are looking to rescue their season by winning the Europa League.
Man Utd are set to take on Athletic Club in the semi-finals after a dramatic quarter-final triumph over Lyon, however, it is promising to be a busy summer in the transfer market ahead of Amorim’s first full season in charge at Old Trafford.
Previous reports claimed that Man Utd and INEOS could move on up to 10 Red Devils players who currently pick up £1.8m per week at the club.
Casemiro (£350,000-a-week), Marcus Rashford (£300,000-a-week), Mason Mount, (£250,000-a-week), Jadon Sancho, (£250,000-a-week), Antony (£200,000-a-week), Christian Eriksen (£150,000-a-week), Victor Lindelof (£120,000-a-week), Rasmus Hojlund (£85,000-a-week), Jonny Evans (£85,000-a-week) and Tom Heaton (£45,000-a-week) may all exit Old Trafford, with some out of contract and others out on loan.
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United are in desperate needs of reinforcements.
By
Barney Lane
Apr 21, 2025
Rashford is one of those currently out on loan and has been impressing at Aston Villa, which has led to plenty of praise from Unai Emery.
“He is a good guy – humble, a very good professional, and he is really happy with his teammates. He is being demanding on himself and with everything we want to work on with him, with the team. He is playing free, he feels comfortable and this is the most important thing.
“We try to connect with him as a person first of all, and afterwards as a player. His process here is getting better, playing in two different positions. He started with us as a left-winger and now he is playing more as a striker. It’s about how he can exploit his qualities as well as he can.”
Aston Villa have an option to sign Rashford on a permanent basis for £40m but are yet to make up their mind, and it looks as if Barcelona are readying their move as a result.
Barcelona ready £30m+ bid to sign Rashford from Man Utd
According to reports in Spain, Barcelona are preparing a €40m (£34.4m) offer to sign Rashford from Man Utd this summer. The Spanish giants are ‘willing to make a significant move’ to bring Rashford to the Nou Camp, and it is added that Rashford has dreams of playing for Barcelona.
Rashford’s 2024/25 stats
Man Utd
Aston Villa
Games
24
16
Goals
7
3
Assists
3
6
Minutes played
1,500
864
The report also claims ‘the Red Devils would have to seriously consider’ an offer of €40m as Barcelona look to take advantage of Rashford’s situation.
Rashford has starred for Villa since joining on loan in January, and by the looks of things, a move to Spain could be one to keep an eye on for the England international, especially if Villa decide against signing him permanently.