Latest news with #GiveMeSport
Yahoo
15 hours ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Report: Liverpool tracking Ligue 1 defender
Liverpool Eye Charlie Cresswell as Long-Term Defensive Prospect Liverpool's recruitment team are reportedly keeping tabs on Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell, according to a recent GiveMeSport report. The 22-year-old centre-back, who moved to Ligue 1 from Leeds United last summer, has emerged as a player of real interest for Arne Slot's Anfield project. Though there is no official bid or move at this stage, GMS state that 'Cresswell is very much a player Liverpool like, and one who remains under consideration as they assess future defensive options.' At 6 ft 3, with an aggressive aerial presence and composed play from the back, Cresswell has developed significantly during his time in France. His performances have not gone unnoticed. Profile Fits Liverpool's Emerging Blueprint Cresswell's profile aligns with what Liverpool appear to be targeting this summer and beyond: youth, potential, and experience in more than one top league. With Virgil van Dijk now 34, long-term succession planning has become unavoidable. While Ibrahima Konaté remains a key figure, the need for a fourth or even fifth centre-back option, particularly one who can evolve into a regular starter, is pressing. Photo IMAGO The young defender, who impressed for England under-21s this summer, continues to grow in stature. GMS highlight that 'Charlie Cresswell won 10 duels and made nine clearances during the England under-21 side's victory over Germany in the European Championships final last month' – a performance that showcased his readiness for bigger stages. Tactical and Technical Maturity on the Rise Cresswell's year in Ligue 1 has done more than refine his defensive instincts. His passing range has improved, and there's a greater sense of control in his game. Sources told GMS that Slot's staff have scouted the player on multiple occasions, suggesting a long-standing interest rather than a reactionary one. While Toulouse have yet to comment publicly, it's clear Liverpool's interest has not faded. Crucially, this is not about immediate transformation, but steady reinforcement. Cresswell would not be expected to walk into the starting XI. Instead, his development would likely continue under Slot's guidance, with opportunities to learn alongside Van Dijk and Konaté in a high-press, high-responsibility system. Cresswell's Career Trajectory Being Carefully Watched At just 22, and with both Premier League and continental experience under his belt, Cresswell is in a strong position. Liverpool have built a reputation for identifying and cultivating long-term solutions. The manner in which they are tracking the defender speaks volumes. As GIVEMESPORT report, 'it remains a case of watching,' but the fact he remains in their conversation highlights his rising stock. He may not be the headline arrival, but he might just be the next long-term cornerstone. Our View – Anfield Index Analysis From a Liverpool supporter's perspective, this is precisely the type of rumour that flies under the radar until it suddenly becomes very real. Charlie Cresswell might not carry the glamour of a marquee name, but his profile is tailor-made for the club's evolving defensive blueprint. Cresswell is young, physically dominant, and importantly, has tasted both the intensity of English football and the technical demands of Ligue 1. His performance against Germany's under-21s was a statement – not just of potential, but readiness. That kind of blend is rare and increasingly valuable. Arne Slot will want centre-backs who are aggressive in the press, comfortable pushing high, and brave on the ball. Cresswell ticks those boxes. And while there's no need to rush, having him training alongside Van Dijk and Konaté for a season could fast-track his development immensely. What stands out here is the nature of the interest: long-term, deliberate, and persistent. That's often a good sign. If Cresswell does make the switch, it would reflect Liverpool's strategy under Slot – focused, forward-thinking, and not afraid to trust youth with responsibility.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Nottingham Forest ‘persuading' Gibbs-White to stay
Tottenham Set Timeline as Forest Dig In Over Gibbs-White Deal Forest determined to keep key midfielder despite Tottenham interest Nottingham Forest are pushing to retain Morgan Gibbs-White amid persistent interest from Tottenham Hotspur, according to GiveMeSport. The midfielder, who played a crucial role in Forest's impressive campaign last season, is seen as a priority target for Thomas Frank. Photo IMAGO Forest are understood to be preparing a new contract offer in a bid to secure the England international's long-term commitment. The club's intention is to remove a £60 million release clause that has attracted attention from rivals. However, GiveMeSport state that Forest have 'struggled for over a year' to convince Gibbs-White to extend his stay. Legal questions arise as Forest push back The situation has now escalated. Forest have written to Tottenham to express concerns over how the North London club became aware of the clause. The club believes there is no legal pathway for Spurs to access that information unless it came directly from Forest themselves. As GiveMeSport report, 'it's not uncommon for clauses to be kept secret, and players are sometimes bound by terms not to breach confidentiality.' Forest are reportedly exploring legal action and have raised the issue with the Premier League. Tottenham aim for swift resolution Despite the legal warning, Tottenham remain focused on signing Gibbs-White. According to the report, they are 'hoping to resolve the situation this week.' A medical had been scheduled last week, but the process has stalled while Spurs evaluate their next steps. Photo: IMAGO While the player is said to be open to the move, Forest are holding firm. They have made it clear that Tottenham are not permitted to contact Gibbs-White without formal permission. The North London club's pursuit now hinges on how they respond to the potential legal proceedings. Comparison made with Olise situation There are echoes of the Michael Olise case, where Chelsea believed they had triggered his clause, only for Crystal Palace to contest the process. Olise ultimately signed a new deal before later joining Bayern Munich. Forest are clearly hoping for a similar outcome in their efforts to keep Gibbs-White. Photo IMAGO Our View – EPL Index Analysis Morgan Gibbs-White has been transformative since his arrival, and letting him go now, just as Forest are building momentum, would send the wrong message. Forest's insistence on defending their contractual terms and even considering legal action shows a level of backbone we have not always seen. The idea that another club could potentially exploit a release clause through informal channels is unacceptable, and supporters will be pleased to see the club not rolling over. Yes, £60 million is significant, but so is the player's value to the project. You do not replace someone like Gibbs-White easily. He fits Forest's style, understands the club, and has shown loyalty. If they are to progress as a club, they need to keep players like him at the centre of it. Offering a new deal and removing the clause is smart business. Forest must hold firm. If Spurs want him, they should go through the proper channels or move on. This one could still get messy, but Forest look ready for the fight.
Yahoo
04-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Richarlison Return and Youth Targets Shape Everton's Transfer Plans
Everton's Summer Reset: Ambition, Recruitment and a Dockside Dream Moyes' New Era Gains Traction With Bramley-Moore Dock nearing completion and Premier League status tentatively secured, Everton head into the summer with cautious optimism. David Moyes' second coming hasn't been about romance—it's been about restoring identity. He's made the Toffees harder to beat and now turns his gaze toward a recruitment drive crucial to bridging ambition with reality. Advertisement As GiveMeSport reports, Moyes has 'a promising start to his second spell in charge,' and the Friedkin Group's financial muscle, combined with Nick Hammond's input, gives the blue half of Merseyside rare structural clarity heading into the transfer window. It's a moment to shape not just a team, but an entire club future. Forward Line Faces Overhaul The future of Dominic Calvert-Lewin hangs in the balance, triggering a striker hunt that spans continents. Names such as Mika Biereth, Evan Ferguson, and Albert Gudmundsson are being monitored, but it's the whisper of a Richarlison return that truly stirs emotion. Photo: IMAGO 'The dream return would be Richarlison,' notes GiveMeSport. At under £40 million, that deal feels loaded with sentiment, but also strategy—his tenacity and link-up play embody exactly what Moyes seeks. Defensive Diligence Underway With Jarrad Branthwaite expected to stay—despite admiration from England's elite—attention turns to bolstering depth. David Hancko may be unattainable, but Burnley's Maxime Estève and Leicester's Victor Kristiansen offer Premier League readiness without eye-watering price tags. Quiet moves, maybe, but in keeping with Everton's pragmatic tone. Photo IMAGO Midfield Mix of Experience and Potential Midfield evolution is under way. Idrissa Gueye and Abdoulaye Doucouré may renew on reduced terms, but Moyes is planning for the future. 'Moyes is pushing for depth in the middle,' and admires Tomas Souček's grit and leadership. Meanwhile, Chris Rigg and Merlin Röhl offer the promise of a dynamic, youthful engine room. Advertisement This is a club thinking long-term for the first time in years. Stadium move. Structural rebuild. Recruitment vision. It's measured. It's overdue. And it might just work. Our View – EPL Index Analysis Excited Everton Fan Perspective For once, it feels like Everton aren't flying blind. Under David Moyes and the Friedkin Group, the chaos of recent years has been replaced by something refreshingly boring—structure. And that's exciting. The mention of Richarlison's return isn't just nostalgic fantasy—it's exactly the sort of aggressive, feel-good signing that would unite the fanbase and send a message to rivals: Everton are done with decline. Advertisement Sure, Calvert-Lewin's uncertainty is frustrating, but seeing credible striker options being explored offers hope. Biereth and Gudmundsson aren't Hollywood names, but they'd add energy and hunger. Defensively, Branthwaite staying is like a new signing in itself, and looking at players like Kristiansen shows the scouting has finally caught up with modern demands. The midfield evolution is particularly encouraging. Souček? Yes please—Premier League-proven and a leader. Pair that with future stars like Chris Rigg and Merlin Röhl and suddenly the long-term picture looks brighter than it has for years. Evertonians are used to false dawns, but this summer could genuinely mark a reset. With Moyes at the helm, Bramley-Moore on the horizon, and sensible signings incoming, there's belief again. And belief, in football, changes everything.
Yahoo
03-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
21-year-old Forward ‘Wants to Join' Liverpool in £25m Summer Move
Liverpool-Linked Rayan Cherki Keen on Premier League Move Amid Slot Caution Rayan Cherki, the Lyon sensation who continues to light up Ligue 1 with his creative flair and attacking versatility, is reportedly eager to join Liverpool this summer, according to a detailed report from GiveMeSport. The 21-year-old, who can operate as a winger or attacking midfielder, is available for a reported £25 million—a fee that many would consider a bargain for such a highly experienced young player. Advertisement The numbers back up the growing excitement: Cherki has made 182 appearances for Lyon, netting 29 goals and contributing 44 assists. In the current campaign alone, he has scored 12 goals and delivered 19 assists in 41 matches. These are impressive returns for a player who has consistently been one of Lyon's standout performers. As GiveMeSport reports: 'Cherki's agent has been eager to contact Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham, Manchester United and Manchester City to discover whether they would be prepared to make a move for his services in the coming months… but he has already decided that he would be eager to head to Anfield.' Photo IMAGO Man United Cools Interest as Spurs Step Up While the Frenchman's agent has cast a wide net in search of potential suitors, not every top-six club is maintaining interest. According to the same GiveMeSport report, Manchester United's 'admiration' for Cherki has now 'faded', possibly due to their shifting transfer priorities or concerns over fit. In contrast, Tottenham Hotspur are reported to have a 'genuine interest'. Advertisement Newcastle United, fresh off a Carabao Cup triumph and strong league campaign, are also monitoring the situation. Meanwhile, clubs like Fulham, West Ham, and Crystal Palace have been ruled out by the player himself—Cherki reportedly has 'no interest whatsoever' in joining these sides. Liverpool's Mixed Feelings Despite Cherki's clear preference for Anfield, it appears the feeling isn't wholly mutual. As GiveMeSport explains: 'There is some scepticism over whether Slot is prepared to grant the winger's wish as the Dutch tactician is pushing to make stringent personality checks and seeking very specific traits when considering his options in the transfer market.' Arne Slot, who led Liverpool to a historic Premier League title in his debut season, is taking a meticulous approach to recruitment. The squad already boasts attacking talents like Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz, while Mohamed Salah's long-term commitment provides further stability on the flanks. Photo: IMAGO With Darwin Nunez rumoured to be on his way out and Federico Chiesa's Liverpool career disrupted by injuries, some might see Cherki as a long-term investment to revitalise depth. However, Slot's vision appears more targeted. TEAMtalk has noted that Newcastle striker Alexander Isak is a major target for Liverpool, signalling a preference for an out-and-out forward rather than a wide playmaker. Where Would Cherki Fit? From a tactical standpoint, Cherki offers versatility, but he isn't the profile Liverpool are urgently seeking. His skill set might overlap with players already at the club, such as Gakpo or Harvey Elliott, limiting his potential impact without a clear role. Advertisement That said, it's difficult to ignore the sheer talent and potential Cherki brings. His age, experience, and technical ability make him a compelling option for any top Premier League side. If Liverpool's recruitment team can be convinced of his temperament and work ethic—key criteria under Slot—then this could be one to watch. Our View – EPL Index Analysis As a Liverpool supporter, it's hard not to be intrigued by the idea of Rayan Cherki donning the red shirt at Anfield. Coming off an exhilarating season under Arne Slot, who's just delivered us our first Premier League title since 2020, expectations are sky-high—and so are standards. Cherki's creativity and directness would certainly add flair and depth, especially if we're rotating in the Champions League and domestic competitions. The £25 million price tag makes him an attractive option in a bloated market, and he's clearly motivated, with GiveMeSport confirming that 'Cherki wants to join Liverpool this summer.' Advertisement But Slot's hesitance makes sense. We've moved past buying names just for buzz. The modern Liverpool model demands more—mental resilience, discipline, and a selfless commitment to team play. If Cherki checks those boxes, fans will welcome him with open arms. If not, we trust Slot to find the right fit elsewhere—possibly someone like Isak, who better complements our forward line. Either way, Cherki's story is one to keep an eye on. Whether he joins us or not, this summer is shaping up to be another critical chapter in Liverpool's next era of dominance.
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Man United ‘Considering' Move to Sign £80m Striker
Man Utd's Summer Striker Dilemma: Ekitike Price Hike Opens Door for Kolo Muani Revival With Matheus Cunha poised to arrive from Wolves, Manchester United's attacking rebuild under Ruben Amorim is beginning to take shape. Yet, according to a detailed report by Give Me Sport, the club's need for a prolific number nine remains urgent. Amorim, keen to use Cunha in the number 10 role, is reportedly pushing for a natural striker to lead the line next season. Advertisement United's current strike force, while promising, lacks the firepower of their Premier League rivals. As Give Me Sport states, 'Neither Rasmus Hojlund nor Joshua Zirkzee is a prolific goalscorer,' and without addressing this issue, United risk falling further behind the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City. Hugo Ekitike: Talented but Overpriced? Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike has emerged as one of the leading names on United's shortlist. At just 22, the Frenchman has already amassed an impressive 22 goals and 10 assists in 45 appearances this season. His potential is undeniable, and he fits the profile of a dynamic, multi-functional striker. Photo IMAGO However, his valuation poses a significant hurdle. Give Me Sport notes: 'Eintracht Frankfurt want £80million for the 22-year-old Frenchman,' and that 'if the Bundesliga club 'do not budge on that figure', then Man Utd will not be able to sign the former Paris Saint-Germain striker.' In the post-INEOS era, where financial discipline is increasingly prioritised, such a steep fee is a major sticking point. Kolo Muani: A Familiar Name Resurfaces If a move for Ekitike proves unfeasible, another French option could re-emerge—Randal Kolo Muani. The 26-year-old was linked with United during the January window before joining Juventus on loan from PSG. His impact in Italy has been noteworthy, with six goals and an assist in 12 appearances for the Bianconeri. Advertisement As the report adds, 'There remains a slim chance Randal Kolo Muani could re-emerge as an option too.' With Juventus lacking a permanent purchase clause and currently at risk of missing out on Champions League qualification, United could strike if the Italian side falter financially. Photo IMAGO What makes Kolo Muani particularly enticing is his versatility and completeness as a striker. Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappé has previously described him as a 'very complete' player—a glowing endorsement that underscores his value. Delap and Osimhen Among Alternative Targets United aren't limiting themselves to just one or two names. Ipswich Town's Liam Delap and Napoli's Victor Osimhen remain under consideration, although both deals come with complications. Advertisement Osimhen's name continues to surface, but his price and Napoli's reluctance to sell mean he remains more of a fantasy than a concrete target. Photo IMAGO Financial Pragmatism vs. Tactical Necessity Amorim's clear blueprint for the squad makes the need for a new striker urgent. However, United's hierarchy must balance that ambition with financial realism. Ekitike's talent is promising but unproven at the top European level, while Kolo Muani—though slightly older—offers a more developed skill set at potentially lower cost if Juventus cannot act. In this high-stakes game of transfer dominoes, Amorim and INEOS will need to act decisively—and wisely. Our View – EPL Index Analysis For Manchester United fans, especially those excited by Ruben Amorim's appointment, this report offers plenty to unpack. The emphasis on a fluid 4-2-3-1 or 3-4-2-1 formation under Amorim has already shown hints of promise—but a true No. 9 is clearly the missing piece. Cunha behind a top striker sounds ideal on paper, but United simply can't afford to get this decision wrong. Advertisement Hugo Ekitike sounds exciting, sure. His stats this season are impressive, but £80m for a player still building his top-flight pedigree? It feels like an old Glazers move—expensive hype, uncertain output. United can't repeat the Anthony Martial or Jadon Sancho mistakes again. Kolo Muani, on the other hand, feels more like an Amorim-style player. He's technically sharp, mobile, and works hard defensively. And if Juventus can't lock him down permanently, that could be a smart and financially sound signing. Mbappé calling him 'very complete' isn't something to overlook either. As for Delap—great talent, but the salary demands seem out of sync for a player yet to prove himself consistently. If he's available for £30m and willing to be developed, maybe. But £150k a week? That's starter money, not potential money. All things considered, Amorim's striker hunt will define this summer. And for fans craving direction and clarity after years of reactive transfers, this plan—if followed through intelligently—might finally offer a glimpse of a modern United.
