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Very little is predictable in the final weeks of a transfer window, well apart from the fact Chelsea will be busy!

The Blues are currently finalising a deal to sign Xavi Simons, while reports suggest that they’re also in talks with Manchester United to bring Alejandro Garnacho to Stamford Bridge.

This would take the Blues’ summer spend above £300m, but could they leave their most important addition for last?

Chelsea target a transformational signing

Inarguably, the best signing of the Clearlake Capital-era is the £42.5m paid to Manchester City to sign Cole Palmer two summers ago, given that he has become one of the very best players in the Premier League.

Since, the Blues have signed a further 21 players, as the table below outlines.

Chelsea’s signings in 2024 and 2025
Players	Fee	Chelsea appearances
Summer 2024
Omari Kellyman	£19m	Zero
Tosin Adarabioyo	Free	41
Marc Guiu	£5m	16
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall	£30m	36
Renato Veiga	£12m	18
Caleb Wiley	£8.5m	Zero
Filip Jörgensen	£21m	24
Aarón Anselmino	£15.6m	1
Pedro Neto	£52m	51
João Félix	£44.5m	20*
Jadon Sancho	£5m penalty fee	41
Winter 2025
Mathis Amougou	£12.5m	2
Summer 2025
Mike Penders	£17m	Zero
Dário Essugo	£18.5m	3
Liam Delap	£30m	6
Mamadou Sarr	£12.5m	1
Kendry Páez	£17.2m	Zero
João Pedro	£55m	3
Jamie Gittens	£48.5m	Zero
Jorrel Hato	£35.5m	Zero
Estêvão Willian	£29m	Zero
*appearances made during his second spell only
All statistics and information courtesy of Transfermarkt

As the table documents, Chelsea have signed 21 senior players since Palmer’s arrival, some of whom have never and will never make a first team appearance for the club, but could that trend be about to change?

Well, according to a report by Julien Laurens of ESPN, Paris Saint-Germain are expecting to receive an offer from Chelsea for goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, with Manchester United and Internazionale Milano also noted as being interested.

Les Rouge-et-Bleu are actively attempting to sell the Italian national team captain, having just signed Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier for £35m, with a report by La Repubblica claiming that Donnarumma is valued at a similar figure.

Transfer Focus

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

So, could there soon be a new number one in West London?

How Gianluigi Donnarumma would transform Chelsea

Despite no longer being wanted in Paris, Donnarumma’s quality should not be questioned.

Walid Acherchour of RMC Sport labels his performances for PSG last season “phenomenal”, while Mark White of Four Four Two believes he is the very best goalkeeper in the world, praising his ‘shot-stopping ability’, asserting that his game has reached a new level in the last 12 months.

Still only 26 years old, Donnarumma is vastly experienced, accumulating 251 appearances for boyhood club AC Milan, debuting for the Rossoneri as a 16-year-old, featuring a further 161 times for PSG since making the move four years ago.

He is also now Italy’s captain, racking up 74 caps at international level, very much on course to break the all-time appearance record of 174, held by his idol and namesake Gianluigi Buffon.

Should he make the move to Chelsea, he would surely be a key figure in West London too.

That’s because, as outlined by Nizaar Kinsella of BBC Sport, many believe the Blues still require a top-class goalkeeper if they’re going to challenge for the biggest trophies once again, noting that neither Robert Sánchez nor Filip Jörgensen ‘have proven themselves at the highest level’.

Donnarumma, on the other hand, certainly has, as the table below emphasises.

Gianluigi Donnarumma Champions League 2024/25 statistics
Statistics	Donnarumma	UCL rank
Goals conceded per 90	0.91	5th
Saves	35	13th
Save %	7.08%	20th
Clean sheet %	40%	9th
Post-shot xG – goals conceded	+2.2	13th
Crosses stopped	14	3rd
Punches	13	1st
High claims	13	4th
Errors leading to a goal	1	13th
Average SofaScore rating	7.1	16th
Statistics courtesy of FBref.com and SofaScore

As the table highlights, Donnarumma was one of the very best goalkeepers in last season’s Champions League, a key factor behind PSG’s triumph in Munich, making crucial saves against Liverpool, Arsenal and Aston Villa en route to the final.

Thus, while many of Chelsea’s recent signings have been acquired for money-trading purposes, viewed as assets or market opportunities more than key contributors, the Italian would instantaneously improve the Blues’ starting lineup in a way that, it could be argued, no one has done since Palmer joined two years ago.

Chelsea coaching staff now want Maresca to replace Colwill with 22-year-old

The Blues are weighing up their options.

By
Emilio Galantini

Aug 9, 2025

Chelsea, amid their ongoing negotiations for Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho, also have to find a solution to their defensive shortage.

The west Londoners were considering a centre-back even before Levi Colwill’s nightmare ACL injury (Simon Phillips), but those plans have been brought more to the forefront with their Cobham academy graduate poised to miss around six-to-nine months.

He suffered the anterior cruciate ligament problem towards the end of his first training session back at the west London club, with his return ending in horror and 2025/2026 now mostly written off for Colwill.

There were some reports that Chelsea could turn to Renato Veiga as an option to fill in for the 22-year-old, but that notion has since been followed by credible sources confirming that the Portugal international remains up for sale.

Chelsea have already signed Jorrel Hato from Ajax, but Enzo Maresca and co reportedly view the teenage starlet as more of a left-back to alternate with Marc Cucurella.

Chelsea looking into signing defender on loan

Now, according to journalist Simon Phillips, via his Substack, Chelsea are thinking of an emergency measure to reinforce their central defensive numbers.

The club are under pressure from UEFA to register a positive transfer balance by September, or they won’t be able to register new signings for the Champions League, so it is imperative that BlueCo do not overspend on a new centre-back.

To combat this, Phillips reports that Chelsea are holding internal talks over signing a new defender on loan.

“Chelsea are exploring possible new centre backs after the injury to Levi Colwill,” wrote the journalist.

“Well, they were exploring new centre backs before that, and the proof is in the pudding because they tried to sign Dean Huijsen and failed, and then tried for Jarrad Branthwaite after that but his price tag was way too high.

“Sources have said this week that the club are discussing a new centre back again, and although we don’t have any solid names yet and will update accordingly when we do, there is talk of a potential loan deal being done for an incoming centre back.

“Chelsea do still hold an interest in Antonio Silva from Benfica, but the Marc Guehi noise is dying off because he prefers to go elsewhere at the moment.

“At the moment, it’s still all being considered, but at this point I’d be surprised if Chelsea now don’t sign a new centre back this window. It could still rest on player sales, but that will only be if we decide to sign a permanent new centre back rather than loan one in, which as I say, is now being spoken about internally.”

Maresca has confirmed that Wesley Fofana is likely to play against Crystal Palace in their Premier League opener this weekend, and Trevoh Chalobah’s ankle injury isn’t as bad as first though, so it’s likely the Italian will start with those two against the Eagles.

Having already advanced towards Hugo Ekitike, Liverpool have reportedly been handed another boost towards signing a top target, who is now open to completing a summer switch.

Liverpool advancing in Ekitike deal

It’s been the summer of Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes in the transfer market and Liverpool’s double act are now advancing towards their latest blockbuster deal. Not only have they emerged into the race to sign Ekitike this week, but they’ve shoved Newcastle out of the picture entirely.

Reports are now indicating that Liverpool have already received the green light from the forward and are now actively negotiating with Eintracht Frankfurt. Newcastle, meanwhile, have walked away from any potential deal.

Likely to follow Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong on Liverpool’s list of incomings, Ekitike will be solving the biggest problem that Arne Slot had within his title-winning squad last season.

The Dutchman often chose to deploy Luis Diaz as a No.9 over Darwin Nunez as the latter struggled more than ever at Anfield. Now, amid rumours that both South American stars could yet leave this summer, Liverpool are advancing towards an instant upgrade.

Minutes

2,563

2,399

1,133

Goals

15

13

5

Assists

8

5

2

Expected Goals

21.6

12

5.8

Even after Ekitike, however, the Edwards and Hughes show may not be over. Reports are now suggesting that Liverpool have also set their sights on signing a South American megastar in a deal that would arguably be even bigger than Ekitike.

Rodrygo now "open" to Liverpool move

According to Eduardo Burgos, a reporter from Spanish outlet AS, Rodrygo is now “open” to joining Liverpool this summer and the Reds have sent super agent Pini Zahavi to help broker a deal with Real Madrid.

Burgos told The RedmenTV: “It’s genuine. Liverpool already held talks with his camp. They sent an emissary to Madrid to talk to his family, and Rodrygo is happy with the interest.

“He’s open to a move. He always liked the Premier League. Two summers ago, even [Manchester] City tried to sign him. Guardiola called him a few times. He appreciated the gesture but in the end his preference was to stay in Madrid.

“His preference has now changed and now he’s hoping to leave…I think he will leave because he wants to be the star of the team, and [at Real Madrid] it will be very, very difficult, almost impossible. I think it’s not 50-50; it’s maybe 70-30. He’s open to a move and I think Liverpool may make a move.”

Liverpool now contacted with fresh opportunity to sign "superb" UCL winner

They could steal in ahead of Premier League rivals.

ByTom Cunningham Jul 17, 2025

The winger’s arrival would send yet more shockwaves around the transfer market, but it’s one that Liverpool have seemingly set their sights on despite the Brazilian’s hefty £11m-a-year salary.

Manchester United’s pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo feels as though it has been going on for months now, with no deal yet agreed for the Brentford star this summer.

The Cameroonian has been a key target for many months now, unsurprisingly so given his record of 20 Premier League goals for the Bees throughout 2024/25.

The Red Devils have so far had two separate offers rejected for the 25-year-old, with Ruben Amorim yet to get his hands on the player who could transform the club’s fortunes in attacking areas.

Keith Andrews’ side are said to be holding out for £65m to part ways with their star man during the current window, but the sides are yet to agree to such a figure, with United’s latest offer totalling £62.5m including add-ons.

It would be a huge disappointment to miss out on the forward, given the huge attempts made for his signature, but other targets have been drawn up over the last couple of weeks as a result of the delay.

The latest on United’s hunt for new signings this summer

Southampton forward Tyler Dibling was a name that was thrown into the mix last week over a potential move to join United, with his current employers demanding a fee in the region of £55m.

Other attackers such as Christopher Nkunku, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Benjamin Sesko have all been touted with moves to join the Red Devils this summer.

However, other areas of the pitch have also been subject to interest, with the hierarchy currently exploring a deal to sign Brighton star Pervis Estupiñán, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

He claims that the club have already held talks with the player and his representatives over a move to Old Trafford, after he made 30 league appearances last campaign.

Jacobs also states that the Seagulls will be open to allowing the 27-year-old to depart this summer, after securing the signing of Maxim De Cuyper, but doesn’t state the fee any deal would cost Amorim’s side.

Why United’s latest target would be perfect for Mbeumo

Despite the delay around a deal for Mbeumo in recent weeks, there’s still a strong feeling that the club will complete a deal for his services at some stage this window.

It would be such a shame to miss out on the forward, especially considering the tiny difference of just £2.5m in valuation between the Red Devils and the Bees.

The player himself has previously expressed his desire to move to Old Trafford, which should only bolster their chances of landing the Cameroonian international in the coming weeks.

However, he will need to be aided in his attempt for success should he move to the club, with Mbeumo unable to transform the Red Devils’ fortunes all by himself.

The addition of fellow attacker Matheus Cunha will certainly help him in the final third, but Estupinan could also play a vital role in the Bees star’s hunt to be a success in the North West.

Despite being a full-back, the Ecuadorian international has showcased his talents higher up the pitch, potentially playing perfectly into the hands of Mbeumo as a result.

Estupinan, who’s been labelled “exceptional” by journalist Ryan Adsett, registered 4.9 progressive passes per 90 along with 3.9 passes into the final third – having the tools to provide Mbeumo with opportunities in attacking areas.

Pervis Estupinan’s stats for Brighton in the PL (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

30

Goals & assists

2

Progressive passes

4.9

Passes into final third

3.9

Take-ons attempted

56%

Carries into final third

2.3

Tackles won

1.6

Interceptions made

1.4

Stats via FBref

He also completed 56% of the take-ons he attempted, whilst making 2.3 carries into the final third, able to overlap the forwards and add a new dimension to Amorim’s attack.

However, despite his attacking capabilities, he’s also been just as impressive without the ball, making 1.6 tackles per 90 and 1.4 interceptions per 90, arguably being the perfect wing-back in United’s 3-4-2-1 system.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the full-back would cost this summer, it’s evident that he has all the tools needed to thrive on the left side of United’s system.

If he can form a partnership with Mbeumo at Old Trafford, it would further add to the quality of any addition, helping the side massively in their quest for success in the near future.

Related Amorim's own Pogba: Man Utd leading race to sign "sensational" £42m star

Manchester United could be about to make a move to land a key target in their plans for the 2025/26 campaign.

Posts ByEthan Lamb Jul 16, 2025

Shreyanka Patil has been ruled out of the women’s Asia Cup after picking up an injury to her left hand. A press release from the Asian Cricket Council on Saturday said the 21-year old India offspinner “sustained a fracture to the fourth finger of her left hand.”Shreyanka took a full part in the team’s only game of the tournament so far, against Pakistan on Friday, bowling 3.2 overs and picking up 2 for 14. She was not needed to bat with India wrapping up the win in 14.2 overs and with seven wickets to spare. Tanuja Kanwar, the uncapped 26-year-old left-arm spinner who plays for Gujarat Giants in the WPL and Railways in domestic cricket, has been called up as replacement.Shreyanka made her debut for India in December 2023 on the back of impressive performances in the WPL. This year, she went on to become champion with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a season where she took 13 wickets – the most by any bowler – at an average of 12.07 and an economy rate of 7.30. Shreyanka has played 12 T20Is for India and has gone wicketless in only two of those games. She’s also represented her country in three ODIs.Kanwar, born in Himachal Pradesh, also made a big splash in the WPL. She was bought by the Giants in 2023 for INR 50 lakh. A week before that auction she had starred with 3 for 26 for Railways in the One Day Trophy final to finish the tournament with 18 wickets while averaging 11.16 and conceding just 2.43 runs an over. Kanwar finished the 2024 WPL season with 10 wickets from eight matches at an average of 20.70 and an economy rate of 7.13. She is known for a variation where she bowls her left-arm spin from well behind the popping crease.India’s next match at the women’s Asia Cup is on Sunday against the UAE in Dambulla.

Leeds United are “interested” in signing a Premier League striker compared to Erling Haaland, as the 49ers Enterprises’ ramp up the Whites’ summer transfer business.

Leeds making moves with Nmecha and Bijol

With Premier League football to prepare for under Daniel Farke, Leeds are now becoming active in the window, with Lukas Nmecha the first official arrival of the summer.

Joining on July 1 when his Wolfsburg contract expires, Nmecha has agreed to a two-year deal at Elland Road and will actually count as a homegrown player following his time in England with Manchester City.

Talking after sealing a move to Leeds, Nmecha said: “It’s just a great challenge and I’m really excited to get to know the team. I’ve spoken with the manager many times and I’m excited to play that style of football that they played in the Championship, even in the Premier League.

“I saw that there was dominance last season in terms of possession and the goals. I’m an attacking player, so obviously that’s exciting for me. Of course, in the Premier League, there’s some big boys in there where you can’t play like that all the time, but I think the idea of the manager is to play good football, possession football, and that’s what I’m used to and what I love doing.

“I wish we could get going now, but we still have a few weeks of pre-pre-season, getting the runs in and all that! But, I just can’t wait to start training now.”

Bid submitted: Leeds make £8.5m offer to sign "excellent" ace after Bijol

He’s reportedly next on Leeds’ summer wishlist.

ByTom Cunningham Jun 17, 2025

Alongside the German forward, Leeds are also primed to bolster their centre-back ranks with a move for Udinese star Luka Bijol.

A deal has now been agreed for Leeds to sign Bijol from the Serie A side in a transfer that could be worth over £18m with add-ons. It is the 49ers’ first major outlay following the club’s Championship triumph, and by the looks of things, they won’t be stopping there.

Leeds "interested" in signing £35m Rodrigo Muniz

According to Sky Sports senior reporter Rob Dorsett, Leeds are “interested” in signing Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz over the coming months, describing Leeds as “busy” in the window.

Thought to be valued at £50m by those at Craven Cottage, Leeds are willing to pay £35m, as the Whites look to bolster their attacking ranks even further.

Reliable reporter Graham Smyth of The Yorkshire Evening Post added that Leeds would still be in the market for another striker after landing Nmecha, and it looks as if Muniz is a real target.

Still just 24 years of age, Muniz has been a steady performer in the top flight in recent seasons, which have actually been his only campaigns in the Premier League. As per FBref, Muniz is similar to Man City star Haaland based objectively on his statistical profile, and ranks in the top 2% of forwards for aerial duels won over the past 12 months.

Games

26

31

Goals

9

8

Minutes played

1,599

950

As can be seen, Muniz hasn’t exactly been guaranteed game time at Craven Cottage under Marco Silva, so a move to Yorkshire may appeal to him, providing Farke can promise him more action.

The fallout of Manchester United’s Europa League final defeat has largely been centred around the future of manager Ruben Amorim, as well as that of rising star, Alejandro Garnacho.

According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Amorim, however, is said to have told his squad that he will still be at the club next season, despite their 15th-place Premier League finish, following a meeting last week.

That same announcement came alongside the revelation that Garnacho is set to be shown the door, with recent reports indicating that the Portuguese coach told the 20-year-old – in front of his teammates – that he will have to “pray” that a new club wants to sign him.

It could be argued that the former Sporting CP boss will also need to ‘pray’ that the Old Trafford side are capable of signing an upgrade on the Argentine winger. Thankfully, that search looks firmly in motion, not least amid Matheus Cunha’s impending switch…

Latest on Cunha's move to Man Utd

It’s been no real secret that United have been chasing a move for the Brazilian in recent weeks, with The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell notably confirming that interest last month, alongside the club’s admiration for Ipswich Town talisman, Liam Delap.

Despite signing a new contract at Molineux back in January, Cunha’s exit from the Midlands side has appeared an inevitability over the past few months, having notably outlined his desire to take “the next step” in his career.

Well, that next step appears to be leading him to Manchester, with it having been widely reported that the 25-year-old is set for a medical, after the two clubs agreed terms regarding the payment of his £62.5m release clause.

That move is expected to see the former Atletico Madrid man take on the number ten shirt, thus ousting the exiled Marcus Rashford from that jersey – providing a further hint to where the Englishman’s future lies.

As for Cunha, the 15-goal sensation is expected to line up in one of the two attacking roles behind the striker in Amorim’s 3-4-3 system, having already starred in that set-up under Vitor Pereira.

With Garnacho potentially departing – and Amad Diallo able to slot in at right wing-back – the other number ten berth may well be filled by another Premier League talent this summer.

Man Utd's search to replace Garnacho

The deal for Cunha appears to be edging ever closer toward completion, with the INEOS regime seemingly looking to get their business done early, ahead of a summer free of World Cup or European Championship commitments.

Transfer Focus

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

According to reports in Spain, the move for the Old Gold ace is likely to be followed by the pursuit of Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, with it claimed that United are already ‘moving decisively’ to sign the 25-year-old.

Indeed, while the Cameroon international is set to be courting interest from ‘several clubs’ following a fine campaign at the Gtech, the report indicates that it is those at Old Trafford who have ‘made the first formal move’.

The suggestion is that with the former Troyes star having just a year left on his existing deal in west London, he would command a fee of around £50m, representing good value for the perfect Garnacho upgrade.

How Mbeumo compares to Alejandro Garnacho

Garnacho, it must be said, would hardly rank among the first crop of players that supporters would wish to see leave this summer. Indeed, the youngster managed to chalk up 21 goals and assists in 2024/25 – a record bettered only by Bruno Fernandes among his teammates.

Bruno Fernandes

39

19

20

Alejandro Garnacho

21

11

10

Amad Diallo

20

11

9

Rasmus Hojlund

14

10

5

Joshua Zirkzee

10

7

3

Marcus Rashford

10

7

3

Christian Eriksen

10

5

5

Casemiro

8

5

3

Diogo Dalot

8

3

5

Manuel Ugarte

8

2

6

It certainly doesn’t sit well that last season’s FA Cup final goalscorer may be shipped off due to his struggle to fit into Amorim’s system, with that certainly something of a gamble considering the manager could find himself under intense pressure if results don’t improve at the start of next term.

That said, perhaps now is the time for the manager to truly be backed, and if it is Mbeumo whom the 40-year-old has identified as a replacement, then so be it. That would certainly not be a deal to turn your nose up at.

Indeed, the France-born speedster is coming off the back of a simply sensational Premier League season, having scored 20 league goals for Thomas Frank’s side, while operating off the right flank or in a central role.

To put that into perspective, no player back at Old Trafford has hit 20 top-flight goals in a single campaign since Robin van Persie in 2012/13 – the last time that the club claimed the title.

Games (starts)

38 (38)

36 (23)

Goals

20

6

Goal frequency

171min

366min

Big chances missed

9

14

Assists

7

2

Big chances created

17

4

Key passes*

1.8

1.0

Pass accuracy*

74%

83%

Successful dribbles*

1.4

0.7

With seven assists also under his belt, Mbeumo enjoyed a far superior return to what Garnacho achieved in 2024/25, with the Argentina international registering just six goals and only two assists.

The Brentford man’s impressive output goes beyond just goals and assists, however, as indicated by his superior record with regard to key passes, successful dribbles and ‘big chances’ created. With regard to that latter stat, for instance, the aforementioned Fernandes managed to supply ‘just’ 16 big chances.

It must be said that this is no flash in the pan either, with Mbeumo also shining in 2023/24 with nine goals and six assists to his name in the league. Garnacho, meanwhile, recorded seven goals and four assists, in what was his first full season at senior level.

With the Bees star lauded by analyst Ben Mattinson as “one of the most deadly players on transition” in the division, he can also take on Garnacho’s mantle of being a real outlet on the counterattack – a trait that that United have already been the victim off, as he rounded off Brentford’s 4-0 win over Erik ten Hag’s side back in August 2022.

While a deal for Cunha is enough to get tongues wagging, managing to land Mbeumo to further bolster the attack would represent a potentially even bigger coup for those at Old Trafford.

Yes, the decision to sell Garnacho may well be viewed upon as a real mistake in years to come, although United could hardly have identified a better replacement.

He'll be amazing with Mbeumo: Man Utd agree personal terms to sign £30m ace

Manchester United already appear to be making serious moves for multiple targets this summer.

ByEthan Lamb May 27, 2025

Liverpool have held discussions for a £50m star who has recently praised both Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah.

Liverpool announce new Salah contract with Van Dijk to follow

The Reds officially announced a new contract for Salah on Friday morning, with the Egyptian penning a fresh two-year deal at Anfield.

Talking about staying at the club, Salah said: “Of course I’m very excited – we have a great team now. Before we also had a great team. But I signed because I think we have a chance to win other trophies and enjoy my football.

“I have played eight years here, hopefully it’s going to be 10. I’m enjoying my life here, enjoying my football. I have had the best years of my career here.”

The good news looks set to keep on coming away the pitch for Arne Slot, with Van Dijk to follow suit and extend his Liverpool contract for a further two years like Salah.

The news on Salah and Van Dijk will allow Liverpool to put their focus on preparing for the summer transfer market, and it looks as if they have made a move for an in-demand Premier League target who could end up partnering the Dutch defender.

Liverpool in talks for £50m Bournemouth star Huijsen

According to the reliable David Ornstein for The Athletic, Liverpool have held talks with the representatives of Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen.

Alongside the Reds, Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle and Tottenham have also been in touch for the Spain international who is available for £50m this summer.

“Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Newcastle, Tottenham have all met Dean Huijsen representatives ahead of decision being made on 19yo centre-back’s future. Bournemouth & player want swift outcome. Release clause £50m.”

The 19-year-old only made the move to England from Juventus last summer and has been a regular under Andoni Iraola, making 25 top-flight appearances for the Cherries.

Liverpool now in pole position to sign £80m+ star who dominated Bayern

The Reds could make quite the statement.

By
Tom Cunningham

Apr 11, 2025

Huijsen has come up against Liverpool twice this season and the centre-back has actually called Salah his toughest opponent.

“I think Salah because he has the ability to create stuff but he also has the ability to be in the right spot all the time to get an assist, to get a goal.

“Even against us, he scored two goals but out of nowhere. It was a dribble and he’s just curled it into the top corner. Plus a penalty, obviously, and penalty you have to score it still. But the second goal, he’s just dribbled and put it into the top corner and it’s just so easy. Even if he doesn’t manage to play a great game on the eye, he will still provide. He’s always there.”

Huijsen also praised Van Dijk, saying: “Obviously I wasn’t one-vs-one playing against him, but just seeing him on the pitch… he’s so impressive. He has an aura. He just stands there and he’s so tall, so strong. He’s a great player to be honest.”

Royals had a plan against Salt and it went okay for a while but then it all went downhill

Sidharth Monga13-Apr-20251:43

Rapid fire: Is Salt RCB’s best addition at the auction?

Rajasthan Royals (RR) had one of those days against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) where they didn’t seem to be able to get anything right on the field. Catches went down, a bowler disgusted at the fielding wasn’t in place to collect a throw for a run-out, their two big Sri Lankan spinners kept missing their lengths, and they bowled seven wides. Those innocuous down-the-leg-side ones and not the ones where you overcook defensive lines. That, though, is an execution problem. You can count on them to come out with plans that push the batters.One such plan, which was also executed for a while, was for Phil Salt. In particular, his contest against team-mate and friend at England, Sussex and Barbados when they were growing up, Jofra Archer. They had faced each other in the nets for sure, but never in a match. Salt teased some plans that he didn’t want to reveal. Archer’s hand was obvious: both deep fielders on the leg side, and Archer’s natural movement back in for the right-hand batter.Related

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RCB extend winning run away from home

Technical changes unlock Padikkal's ball-striking

A high-risk plan but one that makes sense for Salt, who loves to stay leg side of the ball and crash it through the off side: Archer’s pace, movement back in, and a 5-4 leg-side field. In the first over, Archer took away moral victories. The first ball nipped back in sharply, brushed the back pad and flew wide of wicketkeeper Sanju Samson. The next ball followed him again and hit him in the body. The fourth flew off the top edge on the hook for a six. The next one hit the pad even before he could react. The last ball of the over nearly had him lbw but Salt had moved across just enough for the umpire to rule the ball hit him outside the line. DRS would have returned an umpire’s call.Phil Salt peppered the leg side•Associated PressIn Archer’s next over, though, Salt took away both runs and moral victories. On air, Ian Bishop said he had never seen Salt do what he did. He said Salt’s coach at The Hundred, Simon Katich, hadn’t seen anything like this from either. Salt started to jump across to well outside off even before Archer released the ball, and kept hitting into the leg side. He kept taking on the two deep leg-side fielders. The first shot evaded deep square leg narrowly. The six, though, was majestic: way into the stands behind square leg.”I gave it a chance early doors, you know, try to hit him through the off side, but he was swinging it quite a long way so I realised there’s only one area of the ground I can try and hit the ball,” Salt said at the presentation. “Me and Jof have had a lot of battles in the nets. He’s bowled at me more than he’s bowled at anyone else and I’ve faced him more than anyone else. So, nice to have the wood on him, but we’ll play him again in a few days’ time.”Now Salt was unstoppable. RR tried to cramp him and make him hit into the leg side, but Salt kept taking the fielders on and kept clearing them. In all, Salt scored 51 runs in the leg side, the second-most he has managed in any IPL innings. When he scored 52 leg-side runs for Delhi Capitals against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2023, it was part of an 87-run innings. Here he scored 51 out of 65 on the leg side, easily the highest percentage of leg-side runs for him in an IPL innings.