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Bangladesh opener hit 67 off 69 balls in the second ODI but wants to “play long innings”

Mohammad Isam07-Jul-2025

Parvez Hossain Emon: “I try to assess the situation, and play accordingly”•AFP/Getty Images

Parvez Hossain Emon doesn’t like throwing his wicket away after a good start, but he will not step back from his natural instincts in the third ODI against Sri Lanka on Tuesday. Parvez made a rapid 67 in the second game, which Bangladesh won by 16 runs. It kept them in contention going into Tuesday’s match, and also broke their eight-match losing streak.Parvez rued getting out after making 67 off 69 balls, when Wanindu Hasaranga beat him with a subtle googly.”I didn’t bat long in the last match,” Parvez said on the eve of the third ODI. “I was feeling guilty after getting out because I was set and the wicket was beautiful. I could have scored a hundred that day, and I felt bad about it. [Towhid] Hridoy was unfortunate; he got run-out. We have been talking about it. If we get set, we need to play long innings. We have to be consistent. If we score runs early and consistently, it will be easier for the team to do well.”Related

Rain in the way as Bangladesh look for first ODI series win in SL

Tanvir: Mehidy kept telling us we could defend 248

Batting first in the second ODI, Bangladesh were bowled out for 248 with Parvez and Towhid Hridoy getting fifties. The visitors have shown a tendency to play a high-risk shot much before getting to a decent score in this ODI series.Parvez said that he is hopeful of getting a good start in the third ODI at the Pallekele International Stadium, a ground which is regarded as one of the better batting wickets in Sri Lanka. Parvez himself has looked in good form, particularly after his breakthrough century against UAE in the T20I series in May.”I try to assess the situation, and play accordingly, and I try to play my natural game,” he said. “I don’t have any set target. I spoke to the guys who have played here earlier, and everyone is saying this wicket will be good for batting. I will try to play a big innings if I get a start.”Parvez also talked about his dismissal in the second ODI, when Hasaranga beat him with a lovely delivery. He said that he missed the line of the ball, but generally felt comfortable playing the Sri Lanka legspinner.”He is a good bowler, but he didn’t give me much trouble,” Parvez said. “I just missed the line on that delivery. Legspinners are important in world cricket, and Rishad [Hossain] is also doing well for us. I am sure if he gets a chance, he will do well.”Bangladesh’s players have a bit of their confidence back after Saturday’s win in Colombo. Parvez said that they are eager to grab the opportunity for the series win.”This is a big chance for us. If we win the match tomorrow, it will be a great series win,” he said. “Everyone is feeling confident. After the win in the last match, the confidence has been building among us, so we will try our best to win tomorrow.”

تحدث مهاجم برشلونة روبرت ليفاندوفسكي، في مؤتمر صحفي اليوم الثلاثاء، قبل مباراة فريقه أمام كلوب بروج ببطولة دوري أبطال أوروبا.

وأدلى ليفاندوفسكي بتصريحات بشأن زميليه لامين يامال، وماركوس راشفورد، والمنافسة في بطولة دوري أبطال أوروبا، وحالته البدنية بعد العودة من الإصابة، وما يخطط له بعد هذا الموسم.

وقال ليفاندوفسكي: “أشعر أنني بحالة جيدة بعد الإصابة، بدنيًا، أنا في حالة جيدة جدًا، كنت مع الفريق ولعبت قبل ثلاثة أيام، الأهم هو كيف أساعد فريقي على الفوز”.

وأضاف: “أنا مطمئن بشأن مستقبلي، أفكر أيضًا فيما هو الأفضل لي، لديّ أمور أعمل عليها، مباريات كثيرة، والمنتخب الوطني، أركز على هذه الأمور وعلى تسجيل الأهداف”.

وواصل: “لقد تعرضتُ للإصابة وبدأ موسمي للتو، في النهاية، أفكر أيضًا في فريقي وكيفية مساعدته، عندما يكون لديك الكثير من المباريات في الموسم، من المهم أن تكون لائقًا حتى النهاية”.

وأشار: “الأمر مختلف بعض الشيء بالنسبة لي، لكنني كنتُ أعمل بجدٍّ كبير خلال الأسبوعين أو الثلاثة الماضية، عندما أتدرب، أرى أنني في مستوى عالٍ جدًا، إذا لعبنا كفريق واحد، يمكننا الفوز بالألقاب، بالنسبة لي، بعد سنوات طويلة في كرة القدم، أنا هادئ وأعلم أنني أستطيع مساعدة فريقي كثيرًا”.

وعما يريد أن يفعله بعد هذا الموسم، أجاب ليفاندوفسكي: “لست مستعجلاً، الأهم هو شعوري، وفي الوقت الحالي، لستُ مضطراً للتفكير في مستقبلي، قد تحدث أشياء كثيرة، حتى في حياتي، أنا سعيد للغاية ومركّز على هذا الموسم”.

وإذا كان بإمكانه تكرار أداء الموسم الماضي، رد: “لا أعرف من حيث الأرقام، لقد غبت عن العديد من المباريات بسبب الإصابة، لكن عندما ألعب، أعتقد أن معدل الأهداف في الدقيقة الواحدة قد يكون مشابهًا”.

واسترسل: “عليك أن تنظر إلى جوانب أخرى لم تكن تنظر إليها من قبل، لكنني واضح جدًا بشأن هذا الأمر، أتدرب بمستوى عالٍ جدًا، مما يُسهّل الأمر على المهاجم، إذا عملنا بجد، يمكننا الفوز في النهاية”.

وسُئل إذا فكر في عدم الانضمام للمنتخب البولندي، ورد: “لقد فاتني الكثير من اللعب هذا الموسم، ويمكن للمنتخب الوطني مساعدتي في ذلك، الخطة التي وضعناها صُممت خصيصًا لي، أنا سعيد جدًا بتدريباتي خلال الأسابيع القليلة الماضية، وآمل أن أتمكن من اللعب بمستوى عالٍ بنهاية الموسم، هناك العديد من المباريات، والأهم هو كيفية إنهاء الموسم”.

وعن زميله في برشلونة، لامين يامال، وإذا وجه نصائح له في ظل الجدل الإعلامي الدائر حوله، أفاد: “كنتُ أتحدث مع لامين كثيرًا، من الأفضل عدم التحدث إليه الآن، يحتاج إلى الهدوء والوقت والخبرة، هذا أمر طبيعي في سنّه”.

وبشأن بطولة دوري أبطال أوروبا، علّق ليفاندوفسكي: “الآن نعرف كيف يعمل النظام الجديد، كل مباراة مهمة، وكل نقطة مهمة، رأينا ذلك في الموسم الماضي، حيث عانت الفرق الأخرى للتأهل، لهذا السبب، كل ما نفكر فيه هو الفوز بالمباراة، الرغبة في الفوز هي أفضل ما يمكن أن يحدث لنا، كلوب بروج فريق قوي جدًا على أرضه، ونريد العودة بالنقاط الثلاث”.

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وعن زميله ماركوس راشفورد، أشار: “كنت أعرفه من قبل، لعبت ضده، وعرفته من مانشستر يونايتد، لديه إمكانيات هائلة، منذ اليوم الأول، رأيت أنه قادر على مساعدتنا، إنه يلعب بشكل جيد، آمل أن نلعب بشكل أفضل معه، معه، نكون أقوى، إنه يسجل الأهداف، ويقدم الكثير من التمريرات الحاسمة”.

وأردف ليفاندوفسكي: “أعتقد أن فليك أشار إلى وجود نقص في الاستقرار لدى اللاعبين المصابين والغائبين عن الفريق، لكن في كرة القدم، هناك أوقات لا تسير فيها الأمور على ما يرام، وهذا أمر طبيعي، لكن الأهم هو الفوز بالمباراة واللعب بشكل أفضل”.

وأكمل: “بعد موسم لعبنا فيه بأفضل حالاتنا، يُكرر الجميع أن هذا الموسم ليس سهلاً، وعلينا أن نستعد نفسيًا، من تجربتي، أعلم أنه إذا سجلت الكثير من الأهداف في موسم، فإن الموسم التالي يبدأ من الصفر، نريد الفوز دائماً، لكن هناك أوقات في كرة القدم لا يهم فيها كيف نحقق ذلك، بل علينا فقط الفوز بالمباراة”.

وأتم: “أنا متأكد من أننا سنعود إلى أفضل مستوياتنا ونلعب بشكل أفضل بكثير، لا يجب أن نبالغ في التفكير، إذا عملنا بجد، في النهاية يمكننا الفوز بالعديد من الأشياء”.

Big Picture

Ricky Ponting knows the challenge of navigating a disrupted season. In 2021, when he was with Delhi Capitals (DC), he coached them to a top-of-the-table finish before a Covid-induced mid-season pause. When the IPL resumed at the time, DC maintained the momentum to finish in the top two only to stumble in the playoffs.Now with Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2025, Ponting has a familiar task: keeping a playoffs-bound team on track. PBKS, who are aiming for a top-two finish for the first time since 2014, currently sit on 15 points with three games left in the league stage. Two wins will guarantee qualification; they may sneak through with one, with help from other results. The abandoned game in Dharamsala against DC being replayed gives them a vital extra shot.However, it hasn’t been smooth sailing for PBKS. Two key overseas players, Josh Inglis and Marcus Stoinis haven’t returned, forcing changes in team balance. Mitchell Owen, a BBL standout known for his exploits as an opener, could debut in the middle order, given how well Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh have clicked at the top.While PBKS will chase a top-two finish, Rajasthan Royals (RR) are fighting to avoid the wooden spoon. With just three wins from 12 games, their playoff hopes are long gone, and the focus has now shifted to salvaging pride and shaping the future.Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the 14-year-old who lit up the league with a 35-ball century against Gujarat Titans last month, offers hope for the future. Riyan Parag, who had earlier stood in as captain for Sanju Samson, also showed signs of resurgence, smashing 95 in his previous innings, at Eden Gardens, as RR almost chased down 207.The batting has found some rhythm, but the bowling continues to flounder for RR. Injuries to Sandeep Sharma and the absence of Jofra Archer have left their pace attack short on quality and confidence. For context, Royals have the worst average (52.1) for a pace attack this season.

Form guide

Rajasthan Royals: LLWLL (last five completed matches, most recent first)
Punjab Kings: WWLWW

In the spotlight: Sanju Samson, Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh

Sanju Samson has cleared hit fitness test after a three-week absence due to a side strain. In his absence, young Suryavanshi impressed at the top with 155 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 209.45. With Yashasvi Jaiswal also back in form after a middling start to the season – he has hit four half-centuries in his last seven innings – Samson will probably have to slot in at No. 3.Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya have been key to PBKS’ success, consistently setting the tone in the powerplay. Their 534-run aggregate is the second highest this season, behind only Shubman Gill and B Sai Sudharsan (634). When either scores 45 or more, PBKS have won five games (plus two no results); when neither does, they’ve lost all three.4:33

What went wrong for Rajasthan Royals this season?

Team news and probable XIIs

RR are without Archer and the injured Sandeep, with left-arm seamer Nandre Burger brought in as Sandeep’s replacement. Samson will take over the captaincy from Parag.Rajasthan Royals: 1 Vaibhav Suryavanshi, 2 Yashasvi Jaiswal, 3 Sanju Samson (capt, wk), 4 Riyan Parag, 5 Dhruv Jurel, 6 Shimron Hetmyer, 7 Shubham Dubey, 8 Wanindu Hasaranga, 9 Maheesh Theekshana, 10 Tushar Deshpande, 11 Kwena Maphaka, 12 Akash MadhwalPBKS will have to replace two overseas players. Owen, BBL 2024-25’s breakout star, could be playing his first game in India. Kyle Jamieson, who has replaced Lockie Ferguson, could also get a game.Punjab Kings: 1 Priyansh Arya, 2 Prabhsimran Singh, 3 Shreyas Iyer (capt), 4 Mitch Owen, 5 Nehal Wadhera, 6 Azmatullah Omarzai, 7 Shashank Singh, 8 Harpreet Brar, 9 Marco Jansen, 10 Arshdeep Singh, 11 Yuzvendra Chahal, 12 Kyle Jamieson

The big question

Pitch and conditions

Day-time temperatures in Jaipur are expected to reach a high of 42 degrees Celsius. The dry heat will test the players’ fitness. RR believe the surface could be on the slower side. Since it’s a 3.30pm start, dew is unlikely to be a factor.

Stats and Trivia

• Yashasvi Jaiswal (19) and Priyansh Arya (16) have hit the most sixes in the powerplay this season. Meanwhile, Parag’s 12 sixes are the most by a batter in his first 10 balls.
• Arya’s strike rate of 189 is the highest in the powerplay among batters who’ve faced at least 100 balls.
• Despite playing two seasoned overseas spinners in Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, RR have one of the highest economy rates among teams at 9.3 and an average of 37.40.
• RR have won only one out of eight matches chasing so far this season.
• PBKS have the second-highest powerplay run rate (10.4) this season.

عاد فريق برشلونة للانتصارات بعد تحقيقه فوزاً قاتلاً أمام جيرونا في ديربي كتالوني، على ملعب مونتجويك بهدفين لهدف في إطار منافسات الدوري الإسباني لكرة القدم.

وسيستعد برشلونة بعد لقاء أولمبياكوس في دوري أبطال أوروبا لمواجهة الكلاسيكو أمام ريال مدريد يوم الأحد المقبل 26 أكتوبر على ملعب سانتياجو برنابيو.

ونشرت صحيفة “آس” الإسبانية أن هانز فليك مدرب برشلونة اضطر للدفع برونالد أراوخو في مركز المهاجم الصريح على غرار ما كان يقوم به يوهان كرويف مع أحد لاعبيه أليكسانكو.

وحاول هانز فليك بهذا التغيير أن يصلح جميع مشاكل برشلونة ويخطف الفوز في اللحظات الأخيرة، وقد بدا المدرب الألماني متوتراً ومعترضاً على قرارات التحكيم.

وقد حصل فليك على بطاقة حمراء من الحكم جيل مانزانو، المعروف عنه إشهار البطاقات في مباريات برشلونة، حيث سبق وأن طرد ليونيل ميسي ونيمار وسواريز وليفاندوفسكي وبيكيه.

اقرأ أيضاً.. رجل مباراة برشلونة وجيرونا في الدوري الإسباني

وتعد هذه البطاقة الحمراء هي الثانية التي يحصل عليها فليك منذ توليه مسؤولية تدريب برشلونة، وكان قد تم إيقافه لمباراتين الموسم الماضي بعد تلقيه بطاقة حمراء في ملعب بينيتو فيامارين.

كما عاقب الاتحاد الأوروبي لكرة القدم، هانز فليك على سلوكه في ميلانو حيث رأى فيه يويفا أنه خالف المبادئ العامة والقواعد الأساسية للسلوك خلال مباراة إياب نصف نهائي دوري أبطال أوروبا ضد إنتر ميلان وتم العفو عنه في وقت لاحق بعد ذلك.

وقد احتفل المدرب الألماني الذي كان يقف بجانب رافينيا بهدف أراوخو القاتل في شباك جيرونا بطريقة غير تقليدية وغير لائقة، في دليل على التوتر والضغط اللذين سيطرا عليه أمام الفريق المنافس.

وجاءت مشاعر فليك الغاضبة وعدم رضاه عن حكم المباراة ليس فقط بسبب قصر الوقت في الوقت بدل الضائع، ولعدم احتساب ركلة جزاء لراشفورد ولإلغاء هدف لكوبارسي، بل أيضاً لغيابه عن المباراة الحاسمة ضد ريال مدريد على ملعب سانتياجو برنابيو.

ويشكل غياب المدرب الألماني تحديًا استراتيجيًا لبرشلونة، الذي سيخوض واحدة من أهم مباريات الموسم بدون مدربه الأساسي على مقاعد البدلاء.

وقد أوضح هانز فليك في طريقة احتفاله بهدف أراوخو أنها لم تكن موجهة لأحد بل تنفيس شخصي بالنسبة له: “كرة القدم تتعلق بالعاطفة، إنها مشاعري، بالنسبة لي كان الهدف الثاني رائع وطريقة الاحتفال ليست موجهة لأحد”.

MatériaMais Notícias

A Chapecoense voltou a vencer após nove partidas na Série B do Campeonato Brasileiro onde superou o CRB, por 2 a 1, no último domingo (9). E quem ajudou no triunfo foi o meia Giovanni Pavani, nome que contribuiu com a assistência do segundo gol.

Acumula 23 partidas pelo clube em sua primeira temporada na Chape, ele destacou o foco do elenco em subir na tabela de classificação. Atualmente, a equipe está em 16° lugar, com 15 pontos, apenas três acima do primeiro ocupante da zona de rebaixamento, o Tombense.

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– A Série B é um campeonato muito competitivo e sabemos que não teremos jogo fácil. Porém, a vitória e a atuação contra o CRB nos deram a certeza de que estamos no caminho certo e de que o trabalho que realizamos diariamente com o professor Gilmar Dal Pozzo e com a sua comissão está rendendo frutos. O elenco está focado em subir na tabela – exalta Giovanni.

Sobre a sequência da equipe, o meio-campista de 26 anos de idade fez questão de ressaltar o comprometimento do elenco e da ideia de se concentrar, sempre, em superar o próximo adversário para concretizar a ascenção na tabela:

– Fiquei feliz por ter contribuindo com assistência, mas agora é manter o foco, a determinação e encarar todas as partidas com seriedade. Estamos comprometidos para conquistar os nossos objetivos.

>Transforme qualquer TV em Smart e assista aos jogos do seu time do coração quando quiser!

A Chapecoense volta a campo na próxima sexta-feira (14), quando visita o Botafogo-SP, fora de casa, às 19h (de Brasília).

Manchester United have made a new midfielder one of their priorities for the remainder of the summer transfer window – with such an area next on the list for their overhaul of the squad.

Casemiro started at the heart of the side alongside Bruno Fernandes, but the 33-year-old is certainly coming to the back end of his professional career and is unable to maintain his fitness over the course of a full campaign.

Manuel Ugarte is another option currently at Ruben Amorim’s disposal, but the Uruguayan has fallen below the standards set by the fanbase after his £50m move from PSG last summer.

Academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo has also struggled to fit into the manager’s 3-4-2-1 system, with the aforementioned duo often being chosen ahead of him – as seen on Sunday, with the youngster being an unused substitute.

Despite the four options currently on the books at Old Trafford, the boss and the hierarchy still remain in the market for added reinforcements in the midfield department, targeting numerous options before the September 1st deadline.

Man Utd targeting a new midfielder for Amorim

United’s hunt for a new midfielder has seen them target various options in the Premier League over recent weeks, but their hunt has so far been to no avail.

Moves for Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton have both been made in recent weeks, but deals for either of the 21-year-olds now look unlikely, given their current £100m asking prices.

However, no time has been wasted by the hierarchy, subsequently turning their attention to Como star Nico Paz, according to Spanish outlet Defensa Central.

They claim that the Red Devils are one of various sides currently pursuing a move for the 20-year-old, who registered 14 combined goals and assists in his 35 Serie A appearances last campaign.

It also states that Amorim’s side are preparing a €45m (£38m) offer to land the youngster, but it’s unclear if the player himself would want a move to England this summer.

Why United’s latest target joining would be bad news for Bruno

Bruno mainly operated in a number ten role under Amorim during the 2024/25 campaign, managing to register 37 combined goals and assists – easily being the shining light in what was a dismal year for United.

However, the additions of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have seen the Portuguese international drop into a deeper role to allow the new additions to thrive.

The 30-year-old, who’s the club’s captain, may struggle to replicate such numbers in his new role, ultimately having to sacrifice his own numbers to allow the team to progress.

Given his allowance to play in a free role, Bruno needs a player who’s capable of sitting in front of the backline and regaining possession before handing him the ball to continue his excellent return of goals and assists.

Moves for the likes of Wharton and Baleba will undoubtedly make more sense, given the demands of the current hunt in the market, but it appears the club’s attention is now firmly on the Como star.

However, a move for Paz could spell bad news for the captain, with the youngster a similar sort of player, often making more of an impact with the ball at his feet rather than without.

The Argentine, who can play as a ten or a box-to-box midfielder, would likely provide competition for the Portuguese star, which could result in fewer minutes on the pitch for him in 2025/26.

It may seem a ludicrous decision to utilise Paz over Fernandes at Old Trafford, but when comparing their stats from last season, the Como star managed to better him in various key areas.

The youngster, who’s been labelled as a player with “immense potential” by Jacek Kulig, posted a better shot on target rate, highlighting the threat he poses in front of goal when making his third man runs in beyond the centre-forward.

How Paz & Bruno compared throughout 2024/25
Statistics (per 90)	Paz	Bruno
Games played	35	36
Goals & assists	14	18
Shot on target accuracy	34%	28%
Pass accuracy	81%	76%
Key passes made	2.8	2.7
% of tackles won	47%	40%
Interceptions made	0.8	0.7
Take-ons completed	51%	41%
Carries into final third	2.1	1.9
Aerials won	57%	49%
Stats via FBref

Paz also completed more of the passes he attempted, whilst also making more key passes per 90, able to provide those ahead of him with constant chances at Old Trafford.

His dominance over the United star is further reflected out of out-of-possession, winning more of the tackles he entered last campaign, along with more interceptions made per 90.

Such figures could make him the perfect box-to-box option in Amorim’s side, especially if he can replicate the numbers he produced in Italy for Como in 2024/25.

Any move would certainly be an exciting one for the fanbase, possessing a lot of qualities that would provide immediate impact, but also pocketing a whole heap of potential to improve further in the years ahead.

However, as previously mentioned, it could spell bad news for Bruno if he joined the club, offering needed competition, which could result in less game time in the not-too-distant future.

New Pogba: INEOS offered bargain deal to sign "world-class" CM for Man Utd

Manchester United could finally end their midfielder pursuit with a player just like Paul Pogba.

2

By
Ethan Lamb

Aug 21, 2025

Alexander Isak’s time at St James’ Park appears to be drawing to a tense and acrimonious conclusion.

The Sweden international has refused to reintegrate with Eddie Howe’s squad after Liverpool’s summer approach, making it clear he will not play for the Magpies again.

Newcastle United’s hierarchy, unwilling to be left light in attack, have made it clear no deal will be sanctioned until a replacement is secured.

The club’s search for a new centre-forward is urgent, with the new Premier League season just days away.

Howe’s focus turns to Wolves' Jørgen Strand Larsen

Missing out on Benjamin Šeško to Manchester United was a significant blow, while Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson has been monitored following his own push for an exit from Stamford Bridge.

However, the emphasis is now firmly on another target – one who ticks the stylistic and physical boxes required to replace a forward of Isak’s calibre.

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 GIVEMESPORT, Newcastle have explored the possibility of signing Wolves forward Jørgen Strand Larsen this summer.

Larsen only joined Wolves permanently this summer following a season-long loan from Celta Vigo, in which the club triggered a £23m buy option.

He quickly became a fan favourite, finishing the season with 14 league goals – the highest ever by a Premier League debutant for Wolves, surpassing Raúl Jiménez’s 2018/19 record.

His impact was particularly telling during April, when he scored in three consecutive matches, earning a nomination for Player of the Month.

Standing at 1.93 metres, Larsen is a classic penalty-box presence but with enough technical skill to link play and occupy defenders intelligently.

His market value now sits at £65m according to reports, and Wolves have no appetite to lose him, especially in light of Matheus Cunha’s big-money move to Manchester United.

Nevertheless, Newcastle’s situation with Isak has forced them to probe possibilities that might otherwise have been shut down early.

Wolves’ resolve remains firm, but the Magpies believe Larsen’s profile is worth pursuing, especially before Saturday’s opener against Aston Villa.

How Isak compares to Strand Larsen

Both strikers began their careers in their Scandinavian homelands before taking the next step in the Netherlands — Isak with Willem II and the new target with Groningen — and both have enjoyed spells in Spain prior to their current Premier League stints.

However, it’s not just the biographical similarities that make the tag stick.

Isak

29

23

6

JLarsen

18

14

4

Both finished clinically, but Larsen actually outperformed Isak in shot accuracy, hitting the target with 61.1% of his efforts compared to the Swede’s 43.2%.

Physically, both are imposing forwards, yet stylistically, there is a clear divergence.

Isak is a more complete ball-playing forward, registering 2.71 progressive carries and 2.88 progressive passes per 90, compared to Larsen’s 0.59 and 1.01, respectively.

This reflects Isak’s tendency to drop deep or drift wide, using pace and dribbling to open up defences, whereas Larsen thrives on intelligent positioning and quick, decisive finishing inside the penalty area.

Larsen’s aerial ability and hold-up play resemble that of Chris Wood – another former Newcastle forward – hence why analyst Ben Mattinson has suggested he’s a “proper number 9”.

Crucially, he ranks in the 84th percentile for non-penalty expected goals per shot (0.19), suggesting an ability to get on the end of high-quality chances, and in the 99th percentile for shot-on-target percentage.

From Newcastle’s perspective, this profile offers a different kind of focal point — one who could complement Anthony Elanga’s pace, Yoane Wissa’s potential arrival from Brentford, and the creativity of Jacob Ramsey, who is close to joining in a £40m deal from Aston Villa.

This approach to replacing Isak suggests Howe may be seeking to evolve his side’s attacking blueprint rather than simply slot in a like-for-like clone.

Isak’s combination of dribbling, progressive passing and positional flexibility made him a unique weapon but also left Newcastle vulnerable when he became unavailable.

Larsen’s more orthodox No.9 skill set could allow Newcastle to build a more direct, penalty-box-oriented attack, especially if supply lines from wide areas are strengthened.

Time, however, is against them.

With the Isak situation unresolved and Wolves digging in over Larsen’s availability, Newcastle must decide whether to push aggressively for their chosen man or pivot once again to alternatives like Jackson.

Given the urgency before the Villa clash, the coming days could define not only their start to the season, but also the tone of Howe’s third full campaign in charge.

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Tottenham Hotspur want to showcase ambition in the transfer market before deadline day, and this has been backed up by their moves thus far.

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The standout signing has been Mohammed Kudus, who arrived from West Ham in a £55 million deal earlier this month. The Ghanaian, famed for his versatility, flair and explosive pace, fits seamlessly into Thomas Frank’s setup, and he’s already impressed in flashes during pre-season.

Kudus brings both Premier League experience and creativity, qualities Spurs lacked in stretches of last season, mainly due to their injury nightmare. The 24-year-old also brings Champions League know-how from his time at Ajax, and in an alternate universe, he would’ve been joined by Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White in a statement £60 million move.

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

Average match rating

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Spurs were on the verge of completing a sensational, quick-fire £115 million double deal for both Kudus and Gibbs-White, but chairman Daniel Levy was forced to settle for just the former with Forest blocking the Englishman’s exit.

After Forest threatened legal action against both the Lilywhites and Gibbs-White’s camp for an alleged ‘illegal’ approach (Sky Sports), Spurs were in limbo hoping for the 25-year-old’s transfer over the next fortnight (Fabrizio Romano).

However, it was all in vain, with Gibbs-White signing a record-breaking new £150,000-per-week contract at Forest to end all hopes of Frank welcoming the attacker to N17.

The statement of intent was there from Levy and Tottenham, but an unprecedented chain of events means that the north Londoners must now turn to alternative forward targets in their quest for upgrades.

Frank needs to be backed with fresh faces ahead of his first ever campaign managing in the Champions League, and according to recent reports, Spurs are now turning towards Real Madrid star Rodrygo.

Tottenham want to make Real Madrid star Rodrygo their new "crown jewel"

Reports earlier this week claimed that Tottenham have opened discussions with intermediaries over a potential deal for Rodrygo, who faces an uncertain future under new Los Blancos boss Xabi Alonso.

Now, journalist Eduardo Burgos has shared an update on the situation in a piece for Diario AS.

Spurs have apparently approached Madrid, requesting their green-light to formally speak with the Brazil international, and they want Rodrygo to be the “crown jewel” of Frank’s new-look squad for 2025/2026.

This follows the arrival of a “new investor” in the club which has given them “significant financial muscle”, but they still want to lower Real’s £78 million asking price. Tottenham are said to be moving for Rodrygo’s signature through an intermediary, and they might actually have a free run at signing the 24-year-old.

While Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is a fan of Rodrygo, they’re yet to move, and it is believed both Liverpool and Chelsea are dropping out of the race with their eyes on Alexander Isak and Xavi Simons respectively.

AS and Burgos state that Spurs are the only club in a solid position to sign the “superstar” former Santos sensation right now, and he’s also open to leaving the Bernabeu before September 1.

Already closing in on Bryan Mbeumo, Manchester United are now reportedly very keen to sign an upgrade on Casemiro in the form of a £35m midfield star this summer.

Man Utd submit fresh Mbeumo bid

It hasn’t been the easiest deal to negotiate and the winger is yet to sign on the dotted line, but Manchester United’s latest bid to sign Mbeumo could yet prove to be successful at long last. The Red Devils have reportedly offered Brentford over £60m to sign their talented star who looks destined to become the second summer arrival at Old Trafford sooner rather than later.

Mbeumo’s arrival would take United’s spending to over £160m for the summer despite missing out on European football and often watching on as INEOS implemented several money-saving plans.

Success on the pitch has been given the priority no matter what, however, and the pressure will now be on Ruben Amorim to get the best out of his side next season.

What’s more, it seems unlikely at this stage that it will just be Cunha and Mbeumo who arrive. The likes of Emiliano Martinez have threatened to steal the headlines in recent weeks as Aston Villa attempt to comply with PSR rules, as has Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike.

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Both arrivals would again offer Amorim much-needed upgrades on Andre Onana and Rasmus Hojlund, who has been linked with a move to Inter Milan in recent weeks.

Before Martinez and Ekitike enter Old Trafford, though, United may turn their focus towards a talented defensive midfielder worth just £34m this summer.

Man Utd very keen to sign Jashari

According to HLN, as relayed by Get Belgian & Dutch Football News, Manchester United are now very keen to sign Ardon Jashari from Club Brugge and, unlike others, are not put off by his €40m (£34m) price tag.

The Red Devils would be signing a player who was just voted the best player in Belgium – winning the Player of the Season award in the Belgium Pro League – and one who would be an instant upgrade on the ageing Casemiro.

Dubbed “impressive” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Jashari certainly isn’t short on suitors this summer but it’s a race that Manchester United could have the financial power to win once again.

If the 22-year-old was the follow Cunha and Mbeumo through the Old Trafford doors then Amorim would instantly have three very impressive signings to work with this summer.

Glasgow Rangers are still yet to appoint their permanent successor to Philippe Clement in the dugout at Ibrox, four months on from his exit from the club.

The Belgian manager was relieved of his duties in February and replaced in the short term by interim boss Barry Ferguson, who left his post at the end of the 2024/25 campaign.

Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed that former Scotland international Russell Martin is set to be named as the new head coach to finally replace Clement.

The reporter claims that the ex-Southampton manager has agreed to join the Ibrox giants to start a new chapter in his career, as the first manager of the new ownership era in Glasgow.

Martin did win promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs with Southampton in the 2023/24 season, which shows that he has some demonstrable skills.

If the Scottish head coach now lands the job, as reported, then he will have to deal with potential exits from Ibrox, including midfielder Nicolas Raskin.

Why losing Nicolas Raskin would be a blow

The Belgium international is reportedly valued at a fee of at least £20m by the Scottish giants, amid interest from Premier League sides Aston Villa and Leeds United.

At least two teams from the English top-flight being keen on a move for the former Standard Liege central midfielder suggests that there could be a fight on for the Gers to keep hold of him through to the end of the summer transfer window.

It would be a big blow for the Light Blues to lose the Belgian talent ahead of the 2025/26 campaign because of his impressive performances for the club this season.

Raskin caught the eye with his sublime showings in possession in the Scottish Premiership for Rangers, despite their failure to win the title, with his contributions at the top end of the pitch.

Appearances

33

Touches per game

68.4

Goals

4

Big chances created

9

Assists

10

Pass accuracy

87%

Dribbles completed per game

1.0

Dribble success rate

68%

As you can see in the table above, the Gers number 43 provided plenty of quality in the final third with 14 goals and assists combined from a midfield position.

Raskin, however, also showcased his quality out of possession for the Scottish giants by averaging 5.0 tackles and interceptions per match in the Europa League across 12 outings in the competition this term.

It would, therefore, be a big blow to lose Raskin from the squad this summer because he is an important player who can contribute at both ends of the pitch as a central midfielder, thanks to his attributes on and off the ball.

However, the Belgian star may not be the only talent that the next Rangers manager will have to be wary about losing, as teams are circling around another central midfielder.

Premier League teams eyeing Rangers midfielder

According to TEAMtalk, Light Blues central midfielder Mohamed Diomande is attracting interest from several clubs in the Premier League in the summer transfer window.

The report claims that there are six Premier League sides eyeing up a potential move to sign the Ivorian dynamo from the Scottish giants ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Transfer Focus

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

It reveals that Everton are the frontrunners to land the Rangers star’s signature at this moment in time, as they have been keeping tabs on the former Danish league star’s progress at Ibrox.

David Moyes is looking to sign the left-footed star because of the versatility that he could provide the Toffees, due to his ability to play as a holding midfielder, as a box-to-box number eight, or as an attacking midfielder.

TEAMtalk adds that Rangers would want a significant profit on the £4.3m that they paid for him at the start of last year, although no exact figure is mentioned.

Irrespective of how much money the Gers could get back for the 23-year-old sensation, losing Diomande would be as big a blow as selling Raskin would be.

Why selling Mohamed Diomande would be a big blow for Rangers

As is also the case with the Belgian midfielder, the left-footed star has attracted interest from clubs down south because of his fantastic displays in the middle of the park for the Glasgow giants.

Just like Raskin, the Ivorian talent has proven that he has the quality to make a big impact in matches in the Premiership, including in matches against Celtic that could be pivotal in title races in the future.

Diomande has scored two goals and provided one assist in eight matches against the Hoops to date, including one goal and one assist in his last two clashes with the club’s Glasgow rivals – the strike shown in the clip above.

The Everton target’s general form in possession in the Premiership during the 2024/25 campaign also shows that he is as influential as Raskin, if not potentially more so, when it comes to making things happen at the top end of the pitch.

Appearances

36

33

Goals

4

4

Big chances created

11

9

Assists

7

10

Ground duel success rate

57%

57%

Aerial duel success rate

48%

56%

As you can see in the table above, Diomande produced 15 goals and ‘big chances’ created combined, compared to Raskin’s 13, but did not get as much luck when it came to assists as his teammates failed to make the most of the high-quality opportunities that he created.

The Belgian star may be better than him in the air, but the Ivorian ace is equally as efficient at winning duels on the ground, and showed promise defensively in the Europa League, making 3.0 tackles and interceptions per game.

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ByHenry Jackson Jun 2, 2025

These statistics show that selling Diomande to a Premier League side this summer would be just as bad as selling Raskin would be for Martin, because they are almost equally as influential in the middle of the park and both of them would leave a massive hole for Thelwell to fill.