Latest news with #Emery
Scottish Sun
4 days ago
- Sport
- Scottish Sun
Aston Villa join transfer chase for Dominic Calvert-Lewin with Premier League rivals and Italian giants also in hunt
His experience and slashed cost make him a strong value option for Emery have a lewk Aston Villa join transfer chase for Dominic Calvert-Lewin with Premier League rivals and Italian giants also in hunt Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) ASTON VILLA have joined the race for striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The Villans asked about the star's salary demands as Unai Emery tries to beef-up attacking options. 4 Dominic Calvert-Lewin, 28, is a free agent after leaving Everton at the end of the season Credit: PA 4 His wealth of Premier League experience - and fire sale price tag - has drawn the eye of Unai Emery, who has had a quiet window so far due to PSR rules Credit: PA Calvert-Lewin, 28, is available on a free transfer after leaving Everton following a nine-year stay at Goodison Park. AC Milan and Newcastle United are two potential destinations for the former England international — and the Birmingham outfit can now be added to the list. Emery is shy of two attackers as loanees Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio have not returned to Villa Park. And Villa — still struggling to meet Uefa regulations regarding profit and sustainability issues — are looking to more cost-effective additions. READ MORE ON FOOTBALL GYOK TO BE Viktor Gyokeres reveals why he REJECTED Man Utd transfer to sign for Arsenal As a free agent, Calvert-Lewin falls into that category. It would also provide cover for Emery should Manchester United and Newcastle target Ollie Watkins be the subject of a late bid. Calvert-Lewin notched just three goals in 26 games last season for Everton. He was also absent for 14 games towards the back end of last season with a hamstring injury. CASINO SPECIAL - BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS His last Premier League start came against Spurs in January. The Villans' summer has been near-silent so far, with their only business being the signing of backup keeper Marco Bizot, from Stade Brestois, and promising teenage defender Yasin Ozcan from Turkish side Kasimpasa. They are still in a battle to hold on to star striker Watkins, and have also knocked back an approach from Man Utd for keeper Emiliano Martinez. 4 Calvert-Lewin could provide depth in the event that a bid too good to refuse comes in for striker Ollie Watkins, who is on Newcastle's radar Credit: Getty 4 Chelsea hunting Morgan Rogers as Garnacho and £100m Jackson wanted by Villa | Transfers Exposed DCL's former club Everton are targeting £45m-rated Lyon winger Malick Fofana, 20, and full-back Adam Aznou, 19, for around £10m, from Bayern Munich. Keep up with the latest transfer news here with SunSport.
New York Times
6 days ago
- Sport
- New York Times
Why Boubacar Kamara's five-year deal is such an important piece of business for Aston Villa
The photoshoot was completed before the Aston Villa squad travelled to the airport. Villa were mid-air, en route to their pre-season tour of the United States, when The Athletic broke the news at lunchtime on Thursday that Boubacar Kamara had signed a new five-year contract. The agreement had been finalised shortly before and Kamara posed for photos with manager Unai Emery, sporting director Monchi and director of football operations Damian Vidagany. Advertisement There had been a major breakthrough in discussions in the past week and there was strong confidence from all parties that a resolution was imminent. Multiple sources who spoke on the condition of anonymity to protect their positions had, until then, expressed doubt over whether Kamara would put pen to paper. The 25-year-old was approaching the final two years of his existing deal and this extension had first been offered in April. Kamara signing until 2030 represents a significant coup for Villa. Kamara was very well-paid already, having signed on a free from Marseille in 2022, and the improved salary from this new contract puts him among the top earners at the club. The 2-0 defeat on the final day of the Premier League season away to Manchester United was tough to take for Kamara, his team-mates and the Villa staff. It meant they failed to qualify for the Champions League and there was concern from those close to the midfielder about both the make-up of the squad for next season (in part due to the club needing to trim their wage bill), and how they would put that disappointment behind them. Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio's loans were over and they departed, and there was uncertainty about what Villa would do in the transfer market this summer. Other teams were interested in Kamara, which had an impact on the contract discussions. Several European clubs were asked to be kept informed of negotiations and for a brief period, a move to Saudi Arabia felt like a possibility too. However, Kamara reiterated that playing at the top level was his priority. He shares an outstanding working relationship with Emery and is settled in the Midlands with his wife and young family. There is a belief that Emery can continue to maximise his development as a midfielder. Villa are keen on succession planning and while they waited for a clear idea about Kamara's future, Amadou Onana was being seen as a natural and ample replacement. They signed Onana from Everton for a club-record £50million 12 months ago, with the Belgian's profile appealing because he had the malleability to either replace Kamara or, should he decide to stay long term, play alongside him. The pair are internally viewed to have characteristics that can dovetail perfectly in midfield. Advertisement If they are played together, then Villa's best player last season, Youri Tielemans, is more than capable of playing further upfield as a No 10/attacking midfielder. 'Bouba is a very good player and very easy to play with,' Tielemans said in a pre-match press conference before the first leg of last season's Champions League quarter-final at Paris Saint-Germain. 'He's a guy who can make the team play and break up play easily. He's a joy to play with.' Villa have considerable strength in central midfield — just look at the remarkable consistency that led to Tielemans' end-of-season awards — but there are plenty who believe Kamara is Villa's most important and best player. When he is unavailable — such as the eight months after he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in February 2024 — it makes it much harder for Emery to implement his style. His absence was keenly felt in Villa's run-in at the end of the 2023-24 season, but fortunately for Emery and his squad, they had enough of a lead over their rivals to secure Champions League qualification. They certainly lost ground last season, with Kamara missing the opening five months with that serious knee injury. Emery believes Kamara has made big strides when it comes to dictating the tempo of play and resisting the opponents' press when he has possession. The Spanish coach appreciates Kamara's ability as a deep-lying midfielder to snuff out counter-attacks and provide defensive cover when his team-mates are out of position. His influence on this Villa side is comparable to Rodri at Manchester City. 'I'm very happy — when I am speaking with different people around football and about our players, one of them having a good impact is Kamara,' Emery told reporters last year. Under Emery's instructions, Kamara is secure in possession and, crucially, has the talent to keep the ball for a second longer, which allows team-mates to move into correct positions. Watch Emery on the touchline and he will exaggeratedly applaud whenever Kamara takes an extra touch, or delays a pass, sometimes to the crowd's frustration, as it ensures Villa maintain their shape and are secure behind the ball. This, in turn, offers the team a distinct level of control. The length of this five-year contract highlights Kamara's commitment to Villa — and the feeling is very much mutual.
North Wales Live
6 days ago
- Politics
- North Wales Live
Readers call for by-election after councillors defect to Reform
The recent switch by Llandudno councillors from the Conservative Party to Reform UK has seen some intense discussion among North Wales Live readers, with a flurry of social media and online commentary. This political shift is seen by some as indicative of broader transformations within local and national political landscapes. Two Conwy councillors have crossed the floor to join Reform UK, leaving the Conservatives behind. Llandudno representatives Louise Emery and Tom Montgomery cited their dissatisfaction with the nation's lack of progress as their reason for defecting, expressing a desire to "stand up for Britain" upon announcing their decision. Addressing the Local Democracy Reporting Service, both councillors voiced their discontent with the current state of governance. As they departed the Conservative party, they extended gratitude towards their former colleagues, while Cllr Emery levelled criticism at the previous Tory-led UK Government for being "not good enough". Cllr Emery stated: "I have resigned from the Conservative Party and joined Reform UK. I have not taken this decision lightly." She continued, emphasising her commitment to her constituents: "For the past eight years, I have worked tirelessly for the residents of the Gogarth Mostyn ward and the town of Llandudno; I am enthusiastic, and more than ever driven to deliver for residents and businesses. "But I am so frustrated at how our country is stagnating and declining. We need a shake up; we need a government that listens to its people and is prepared to stand up for Britain – its history, its place in the world, its future. "I am tired of defending the legacy of the Conservative Government – they weren't good enough. I am horrified at the first year of Labour Government. "There is only one party that can deliver the change we so desperately need and that is Reform UK." She added: "Reform have a manifesto of common-sense policies which are the only way to set this country back on course and ensure that both local and national government work as they should - for the taxpayer." Cllr Emery also referenced additional "common sense" Reform policies behind her decision. These encompassed social care overhauls, a fresh curriculum, assessments of council expenditure, employment incentives, a "reward-based benefits" structure, and immigration controls, including "halting illegal crossings". One reader, Totemlad1 simply says: "And so it starts." While Chucker writes: "More Conservatives going over. Looks like Conservatives doomed. Maybe it's an easy way out for them." Underdog_1 believes: "Sooner Reform are in, the better Britain will be and illegal immigration will reduce/stop." Dewibach replies and asks: "And how exactly will Reform stop illegal immigration?" PedroD says: "I'm worried about the state of our county (Conwy) and its lack of effective leadership." Redsheep writes: "How is it a change when most of them are ex-Conservatives - Reform are just ultra right wing Conservatives, I think its going to be a case of 'be careful what you wish for' if Reform ever get in. People read 'Reform' and think this limited company is going to change things, all they have are carbon copies of Trump policies and look how they are going down in America. "There will have to be international agreements in place with places like France first before we can send anyone anywhere and Reform have already stated if France does not comply then they would remove fishing rights, then we end up in stale mate situation that will never be resolved because Reform are too stubborn to negotiate a deal." EllVis says: "They were voted in on the policies of their party. Defection should mean resignation and a fresh election should be called. Totally unacceptable to have party in that didn't win." Dewibach comments: "It doesn't matter what label is on the tin of paint when it comes to the issue of immigration no party can resolve it without friends on the continent." Froggyfrogs writes: "Louise Emery is one of our councillors in Llandudno. Now she has defected to she should resign, because she is no longer representing the people who voted for her. I didn't vote for her as it happens, but I certainly wouldn't vote for or Farage, so we don't want the likes of her representing our town without a new election. If she wins that, fair enough, but I doubt she will." BarnettFormulaSpongers says: "Fantastic news. Reform is on course to take all councils and Senedd next year. Time for change in wales." Everyyear feels: "Disappointing and somewhat undemocratic. Although it is quite common for politicians to change parties, I feel they should do that at election time not mid-term. My reasoning is that many will have voted for the party being represented - because they do not know the person. Personally, I would never vote for the Reform Party."
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Sky Sports: Aston Villa ‘Finalise Deal' for 25-year-old Midfielder
Aston Villa Tie Down Kamara With Fresh Contract Amid Champions League Miss Aston Villa have secured the long-term future of Boubacar Kamara, finalising a new deal with the 25-year-old midfielder despite their narrow miss in the race for Champions League qualification. As first reported by Sky Sports, the French international has committed to Villa Park following weeks of internal optimism that a deal would be struck. Kamara, who joined the club on a free transfer from Marseille in 2022, has become a vital part of Unai Emery's midfield, drawing praise for his composure on the ball and tactical intelligence in front of the back four. With two years remaining on his previous deal, there were growing concerns about whether he would stay if European ambitions were not met. However, those fears have now been put to rest. Kamara's Importance To Emery's System Since arriving in the Premier League, Kamara has quickly established himself as a consistent performer under Emery. His ability to dictate tempo and read the game has made him a mainstay in the starting XI when fit. Emery views him as a pillar around which the team can build towards consistent top-six finishes. 'He's one of the smartest players we have when it comes to controlling space,' a club source said. 'We've built a lot of our transitions around his positioning.' Photo: IMAGO Contract Extension Despite European Disappointment According to Sky Sports, Kamara had initially wanted to see whether Villa would reach the Champions League before deciding on a contract extension. That did not materialise, yet the player has opted to stay, signalling belief in the club's project. 'The report suggests the 25-year-old had been waiting to see whether Villa would qualify for the Champions League, but he has now extended his stay despite the club missing out on the final qualifying spot.' Villa's ownership and management will see this as a statement of intent. Retaining a player of Kamara's calibre while fending off speculative interest from other top clubs sends a message that Villa are serious about sustained progress. Building Stability Ahead Of Next Season This decision also offers a degree of stability heading into the 2025 season. Villa are likely to be active again in the transfer window, but keeping core players like Kamara gives them a base from which to build. With European football still secured via the Europa League, the club can offer Kamara meaningful continental experience, which may have helped tip the scales in their favour during negotiations. What This Means For Villa's Midfield Kamara's renewal allows Villa to plan the midfield future with greater clarity. Douglas Luiz has attracted interest, and while nothing is guaranteed in the market, locking down Kamara gives Villa a crucial safety net. It also sends a strong message to potential new signings that top players believe in Emery's long-term vision. Our View – EPL Index Analysis As an Aston Villa supporter, this is the sort of news that fills you with pride and quiet confidence. Boubacar Kamara committing to the club, despite Champions League qualification slipping through our fingers, tells you everything about how far Villa have come in the last two years. Kamara is not just a top talent, he's the type of player who glues a system together. You don't always see it in the highlights, but his positional discipline, ball retention and calmness under pressure are invaluable. To have him in claret and blue for the foreseeable future is a massive win. From the moment he arrived, you could tell Kamara had the mentality and maturity to thrive in the Premier League. It's even more reassuring to know that, according to Sky Sports, he waited to assess the club's European trajectory before making his decision. That he signed anyway shows how much faith he has in Unai Emery and the club's ambition. This is not just a contract extension, it's a statement. Villa are no longer a stepping stone. We are building something sustainable, and players like Kamara want to be part of it. That's a shift we've waited years to see.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Only on News 19: Family shares experience with daughter's rare genetic disorder
MADISON, Ala. (WHNT) — As a parent, you only want what's best for your child, but when things don't go as planned, it can be defeating. That's the case for a family from Madison and their daughter, who's living with an extremely rare genetic disorder. Maddox was born completely healthy, while his sister Emery is fighting an extremely rare genetic mutation. Judge denies landowners' request to be removed from Belle Mina quarry lawsuit 'Getting that diagnosis was devastating,' said Valerie Morris. 'We were led to believe for a while that there was no diagnosis from multiple specialists, and then to get a diagnosis like this.' Morris is Emery's mom. She said Emery was born with what's known as KIF1A-associated neurological disorder. 'Her twin brother does not have it, and her little brother does not have it either,' she said. 'So her genetic mutation was called de-novo, which is just a spontaneous, just a random thing that happened.' It's so rare; she's the only one of three people in Alabama with the disorder. There are only around 550 people worldwide with the diagnosis. Huntsville woman recalls her first concert – 'the infamous and legendary' Ozzy Osbourne at VBC 'She faces speech delays, cognitive delays, issues with gross motor skills, fine motor skills, and then of course, her vision issues too,' said Morris. Valerie said she pictured a full life for her daughter. 'You feel like you're losing the life that you thought your child would have, and so now it's not only just losing that, but having to accept this new life that is just going to be so challenging for her,' she said. No matter the challenges, nothing can stop Emery… especially with the help of her other half, Maddox. 'She's very social and very friendly,' she said. 'She's a happy girl. She loves going to school. She goes to our local preschool, and she actually is in a class with her brother.' That's not to say it's been easy. Her whole life, Emery has worked hard for every ounce of progress. 📲 to stay updated on the go. 📧 to have news sent to your inbox. 'She never complains,' said Valerie. 'She goes to all of her therapy appointments and just tries so hard, and she just has the sweetest personality.' Although now, three years after the family received her diagnosis, they have a glimmer of hope they didn't think existed. 'They create this medication that usually takes like 18 months to process, and it's literally made specifically for Emery and her genetic makeup,' she said. The medicine comes from a California nonprofit called 'n-Lorem.' The founder, Stan Crooke, said they personalize each patient's prescription. No injection is a 'one size fits all.' 'Once we know the genetic cause and we know the sequence of where the problem is, we can create a genetic medicine that uses the genetic code as a zip code to target that specific problem,' said Crooke. 'n-Lorem' took Emery's case in March of 2024. So far, the nonprofit has successfully treated 11 KIF1A patients across the country, with astonishing results… some can even walk again. 'It's amazing,' said Valerie. 'I just can't believe that there are people out there who wanted to even start this nonprofit. They're doing such special and life-changing work for all these families, so to have someone who's giving options to these people who have no other way is just it's so special.' There's no guarantee how successful the medication could be, but while they wait, the family said they are grateful and taking life day by day, all while clinging to the hope of a 'more healed' tomorrow. 'She deserves every single little inch and tiny milestone that she reaches, and we just celebrate it big time,' Valerie said. Emery's family said her condition has not regressed. 'n-Lorem' is currently crafting her medication, and the family hopes it will be ready for her to try early next year. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Solve the daily Crossword
