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Tottenham and chairman Daniel Levy by extension are planning to make a "top-level" signing for manager Ange Postecoglou this summer.

Spurs back Postecoglou with key January signings

In their race to seal a top four finish and Champions League qualification, it was imperative for Spurs to back Postecoglou with key signings like Timo Werner and Radu Dragusin in the January window.

"World-class" Tottenham star may now consider leaving after developments

He could apparently “reassess his future” this summer.

ByEmilio Galantini Feb 22, 2024

Dragusin, who joined in a £25 million deal from Genoa, came in to provide a much-needed back up centre-back option to Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero. Van de ven's injury absence earlier this season really crippled Postecoglou's side for a period, while Romero appears consistently flirts with suspension.

Werner's addition gifts Tottenham some attacking versatility in the forward areas, and he got off to a good start, bagging two assists in his first two top flight matches.

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Reports suggest Spurs are already planning for the summer window, and it is believed that another major defensive signing could be in the offing. Everton starlet Jarrad Branthwaite is among the options Levy and co are considering ahead of the summer, among a few others, with Postecoglou seemingly plotting a defensive reshuffle.

Tottenham planning to make "top-level" defender signing

Now, according to journalist Dean Jones, Tottenham are indeed planning to make a "top level" defender signing this summer as the club cast their net far and wide.

“The situation hasn't changed, and Tottenham have always intended to sign two top-level centre-backs across 2024," said Jones.

"They’ve got one through the door, and now, in the summer window, the plan is to go after another. Calafiori and Morato might be mentioned now, but the net is being cast wider than that. They’ve got some interesting options opening up to them. Still, from what I understand, they’re not committing at this stage, even though they want to make early moves in the summer transfer window similar to how they did in the winter market.”

In terms of the players linked, we believe Branthwaite could be the best option for Spurs, albeit a potentially expensive one. Homegrown and playing a starring role for Everton this season, Sky pundit Jamie Carragher is among the 21-year-old's growing list of admirers.

"I think he is [special]. And what is really special as well is the amount of centre-backs we have in the Premier League aged 21 or younger," said Carragher on Sky.

“I remember being a young lad going in myself at Liverpool and it’s an unforgiven position, I had to go to full-back for the next three or four years and then go back to centre-back, so you can see the quality we have.

“Branthwaite has been outstanding, Murillo I think has been outstanding. But I think this lad has been pretty special and he’s a big part of why in my eyes Everton still have a great chance of staying up, him and his partnership with Tarkowski.”

England allrounder hits out at publication of details of family tragedy more than three decades ago

ESPNcricinfo staff17-Sep-2019Ben Stokes has hit out at The Sun newspaper for the “heartless” and “immoral” decision to publish a front-page article about a family tragedy that occurred in New Zealand before he was born.In a statement on Twitter, Stokes said the story concerned “events in the private lives of my family, going back more than 31 years” adding that it contained “serious inaccuracies which has compounded the damage caused”.”The decision to publish these details has grave and lifelong consequences for my mum in particular,” Stokes said. “To use my name as an excuse to shatter the privacy and private lives of – in particular – my parents is utterly disgusting.”It is hard to find words that adequately describe such low and despicable behaviour, disguised as journalism. I cannot conceive of anything more immoral, heartless or contemptuous to the feelings and circumstances of my family.”Stokes has hit the headlines for all the right reasons this summer, thanks to his starring role in both England’s World Cup win against New Zealand at Lord’s in July, and his stunning unbeaten 135 in the third Ashes Test at Headingley, a performance that was hailed as one of the greatest innings of all time as England squared the series with a one-wicket win.”I am aware that my public profile brings with it consequences for me that I accept entirely,” he said. “But I will not allow my public profile to be used as an excuse to invade the rights of my parents, my wife, my children or other family members. They are entitled to a private life of their own.”For more than three decades, my family has worked hard to deal with the private trauma inevitably associated with these events and has taken great care to keep private what were deeply personal and traumatic events.”Stokes’ statement has been retweeted more 25,000 times, including by his Test captain Joe Root, who urged his followers to “please take the time to read this and respect it”, and the Manchester United striker, Marcus Rashford, who stated that Stokes had been “huge for sport this summer. He and his family deserve better.”

pic.twitter.com/ojjjvstZI2

— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) September 17, 2019

Tom Harrison, the ECB chief executive, also joined in the condemnation on behalf of English cricket.”We, like the wider sporting world, are disgusted and appalled at the actions taken in revealing the tragic events from Ben’s past,” he said. “We are saddened that an intrusion of this magnitude was deemed necessary in order to sell newspapers or secure clicks.”Ben’s exploits this summer have cemented his place in cricket’s history – we are sure the whole sport, and the country, stands behind him in support.”In a statement, The Sun insisted the paper had the “utmost sympathy” for Stokes and his mother, but said that they had received the co-operation of a family member in compiling the story.”The tragedy is also a matter of public record and was the subject of extensive front-page publicity in New Zealand at the time,” the newspaper added.

Bayern Munich have reportedly missed out on Italian wonderkid Samuele Inacio as the Atalanta teenager has opted to join Borussia Dortmund instead.

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Dortmund close in on Inacio Beat rivals Bayern in the race Played for Italy youth teams WHAT HAPPENED?

The competition for Inacio’s signature was fierce, with numerous top clubs expressing keen interest in the Italian prodigy. Bayern were among the contenders, vying intensively for his services. However, according to Dortmund emerged victorious in this transfer battle, securing a player who has already shown great promise at a young age.

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Inacio's performances at Atalanta Bergamo U17 have been noteworthy. Playing as a second striker, he scored six goals in 14 matches last season, showcasing his knack for finding the back of the net and his potential to develop into a prolific forward. His talents have not gone unnoticed at the national level either, as he has represented Italy in the U15 and U16 national teams, further highlighting his capabilities and the high expectations surrounding his future.

DID YOU KNOW?

Inacio has admired football stars Kevin De Bruyne and Neymar, indicating the type of player he aspires to become. Emulating De Bruyne’s vision and playmaking abilities, combined with Neymar’s flair and creativity, Inacio aims to develop a versatile and impactful playing style.

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Dortmund are renowned for their excellent youth development program, which has produced several world-class players over the years. Inacio’s move to the club is expected to provide him with the ideal environment to hone his skills and transition to professional football.

His tenure would be till the end of 2020 with a possibility of extension based on the results

ESPNcricinfo staff27-Sep-2019Former South Africa allrounder Lance Klusener has been appointed Afghanistan’s new head coach. ESPNcricinfo understands Klusener’s tenure would be till the end of 2020, with a possibility of extension based on the results.Andy Moles, who is part of Afghanistan’s revamped selection set-up and is a former coach of the national team, had served as the team’s interim head coach during the recent tour of Bangladesh after the exit of Phil Simmons’ following the World Cup.According to Afghanistan Cricket Board, over 50 candidates had applied for the vacant position, with Klusener emerging as the top pick.Klusener played 49 Tests and 171 ODIs for South Africa between 1996 and 2004. Considered one of the best allrounders of his time, he collected 1906 runs and 80 wickets in Tests, as well as 3576 runs and 192 wickets in ODIs. He took up a coaching role with his domestic side Dolphins in 2012, before serving as the batting coach for Zimbabwe in 2016. In 2015, he was roped in by South Africa to tutor the lower order during their home series against England. He has also served as Mumbai Indians’ bowling coach in the IPL. More recently, he served as South Africa’s assistant batting coach for the T20I leg of their India tour.”I am extremely excited and honoured to be given the opportunity to work with some of the best talent in world cricket,” Klusener said in a statement. “Everyone knows the fearless brand of cricket Afghanistan play. I am very confident that with some hard work we can become one of the best sides in the world. I am really looking forward to working with the Afghanistan team and helping them take their cricket to the next level.”According to Lutfullah Stanikzai, ACB’s chief executive officer, Klusener’s appointment is timely keeping in mind Afghanistan’s preparations for the 2020 Asia Cup as well as the T20 World Cup in Australia next October.His first assignment with his new team will be the series of one Test, three ODIs and three T20Is against West Indies at ‘home’ in November-December.

Emi Martinez has been told why being denied a gold medal bid at the 2024 Olympic Games is the “right decision” for Aston Villa.

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Keeper currently at Copa AmericaHoped to head for France afterwardsVillans want him back for pre-seasonGettyWHAT HAPPENED?

The World Cup-winning goalkeeper has made no secret of the fact that he was hoping to form part of Javier Mascherano’s Argentina squad in Paris. He has already claimed a global crown with his country, along with Copa America and Finalissima honours.

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Villa have, however, determined that he will not be freed to head for France – having already competed in another Copa event this summer. The 31-year-old has no option but to accept that ruling, with his presence now expected at pre-season training alongside the rest of Unai Emery’s squad.

GettyWHAT FORMER SCOUT SAID

Former Villa scout Bryan King has told of why the correct call has been made: “Of course, it would be lovely for him to play in the Olympics and perhaps win gold. However, his job is with the Argentina senior team and most importantly Aston Villa Football Club. They pay his wages, this is where he works and this is what makes him an international goalkeeper. I think Villa made the right decision on this, I could never see the club agreeing to that, he would have missed the entirety of pre-season.”

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Villa are readying themselves for a big 2024-25 campaign and are eager to ensure that everybody hits the ground running. Having claimed a top-four finish in the Premier League last season, Emery’s side are preparing to add Champions League competition to their schedule.

Everton finally received a verdict this week on their appeal regarding their Financial Fair Play charge earlier this season, which led to a deduction of 10 points. That verdict was mostly a positive one with the Toffees' deduction taken from 10 to six points, leaving them five points clear of the Premier League's relegation zone. And since then, they've been handed a further boost by the fitness of Dele Alli, who could now get a new contract at Goodison Park.

Dele Alli update

Struggling with injuries and difficult issues away from the pitch, Alli is finally on course to eventually make his return to action. The England international revealed in an open interview with Gary Neville on The Overlap the troubles that he has been facing away from the game, detailing his traumatic upbringing and his problems ever since, much to the shock of the football world.

Sean Dyche spoke about the timeline of Alli's return back in December, saying via The Guardian: "He still has a bit to go because he has been out for a long time, he needs a game programme, but to get him back with us would be really pleasing for him because he has been so unlucky.

"The last time, 12-13 weeks ago when he was going to join in, he was so unlucky with the damage that was done. But the good news is that everything is settling down and he is feeling good. I saw him earlier and he said: ‘I’m feeling great.’”

Now, almost three months later, the former Spurs star has reportedly taken a significant step towards a return. According to Patrick Boyland of The Athletic, Alli is back at Finch Farm to step up his rehabilitation, and Everton are now open to offering him a new contract at the club with a return to action before the end of the season not ruled out.

It is more likely he returns in pre-season, with his return to the club's training ground only the first major step towards full fitness and participation in full training still some way off, but nonetheless it is great news for Alli and Toffees fans that he is finally close to doing what he loves most.

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FFC has all you need to know about Everton’s prospective new owners.

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Before anything, however, Everton will have to negotiate a way past the reported £10m fee that they will owe Spurs if Alli reaches 20 appearances for the Merseyside club. Having already made 13 appearances, those at Goodison Park will see their financial troubles dealt another blow if they fail to renegotiate their deal with Spurs and Alli reaches 20 appearances.

Alli could yet rediscover best form

Whilst it remains to be seen whether Alli will be able to kick on at Everton upon his return to fitness, there's no doubting the player that they'll have on their hands if he does rediscover his best form.

Still yet to secure their safety, having a player who once stood alongside the likes of Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard in the history books could go a long way in not only keeping Everton up but also potentially taking them onto bigger and better things in the Premier League.

Reliable journalist Nizaar Kinsella of The Evening Standard has shared a key Chelsea manager update as the Blues make a decision on both Mauricio Pochettino's future and a potential return for fan favourite Jose Mourinho.

Pochettino takes blame for Chelsea form

The west Londoner lost yet more ground in the race for European qualification after their 2-2 draw away to Brentford last weekend.

Chelsea now eyeing move to sign new £26m gem for Poch this summer

He’s one for the future.

ByTom Cunningham Mar 3, 2024

Nicolas Jackson opened the scoring against Thomas Frank's side, but goals from Mads Roerslev and Yoane Wissa put Brentford in the ascendancy and prompted boos from sections of the Chelsea away end against Pochettino.

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A late goal from Axel Disasi fortunately salvaged something from their encounter at the Gtech Community Stadium, but it is clear as day that things are starting to turn toxic at Stamford Bridge, and specifically over who is in the dug out.

"I think the performances have been very good, I’m so happy with the performances," Pochettino said, when asked about supporters' frustration.

"Yes, and if they want to listen, perfect. If not, what can I do? They'll keep booing. I'm giving my best to this team.

"But we cannot blame the fans. My message is: Okay, they need to show their frustration – through who? I prefer to me rather than to the team. I prefer that, I am strong. I am sure that in time we will change the perception.

"I don’t want the fans trying to blame the players. Players need to feel backed by the fans and, to be honest, I prefer that I get the blame and let the players be free on the pitch. I don’t care. I am strong, I am 52 now. The players deserve credit and support from our fans. If someone needs to get the blame, that is no problem. That is why I am the coach."

The former Tottenham boss was a divisive appointment to begin with, given his links to one of Chelsea's most fierce rivals, but Chelsea's dwindling season has piled yet more pressure on the 52-year-old.

Pochettino update as Chelsea make Jose Mourinho decision

A big topic of discussion lately has been a possible Chelsea return for Mourinho. According to recent reports, the 'Special One' would "love" to have a third stint at Chelsea boss, but fans who are eager to see the Portuguese may be disappointed.

Indeed, The Standard and Kinsella write this week that Chelsea are not expected to try and reappoint Mourinho, and will likely stick with Pochettino until the end of the season at least.

Mourinho is a free agent after leaving Roma earlier this season, but that has done little to sway the Chelsea board into making a move for the serial-winning coach.

The 61-year-old has won a major honour at every single club he's taken charge of, bar Tottenham, so it's clear why some fans are enchanted by the prospect of a return – which as things stand looks unlikely to happen.

On Thursday, the franchise appointed Navnita as a massage therapist for IPL 2020

ESPNcricinfo staff18-Oct-2019Royal Challengers Bangalore have brought a woman staffer on board with the appointment of Navnita Gautam as a massage therapist for IPL 2020. It is rare for IPL teams to appoint female staff although the now defunct Deccan Chargers did have Ashleigh Joyce and Patricia Jenkins working as massage therapists in 2008 and 2009.As per a press release from the franchise on Thursday, Navnita will be working with head physiotherapist Evan Speechly and strength & conditioning coach Basu Shanker “to identify, evaluate, provide guidance and implement massage therapy to suit the team and any relevant prevailing conditions”.She will also be responsible for performing specialised techniques pertaining to the preparation, motivation and physical ailments of individual players.Talking about the appointment, the franchise chairman Sanjeev Churiwala said: “I am very pleased to be a part of this moment in history and another step in the right direction. The game has come a long way, in many ways, in terms of the women’s cricket team and how many people are watching it, the interest was long due. Sport is a great enabler, but it is important to ensure that the principles of equity in participation also extends to its staffing bodies. Increasing participation and success by women in all sporting arenas have made this possible and we at RCB are very thrilled to have found great talent in Navnita.”In August, RCB, who are still looking for their maiden IPL title, had appointed former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson as director of cricket and former Australia batsman Simon Katich as head coach in a complete overhaul of their support staff.

Marseille have reportedly stepped up their efforts to prise Mason Greenwood away from Manchester United, with a formal transfer bid tabled.

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No future for forward at Old TraffordLinked with clubs across EuropeFresh start could take him to FranceWHAT HAPPENED?

The 22-year-old forward has no future at Old Trafford and has taken to starting pre-season training away from the Red Devils camp and alongside former team-mate Shola Shoretire. Greenwood is expected to have plenty of options to consider this summer.

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The one-cap England international impressed on loan at La Liga side Getafe last season, winning their Player of the Year award. He is now being linked with clubs across Europe as the likes of Juventus, Lazio, Valencia and Borussia Dortmund are credited with interest.

WHAT ROMANO SAID

Ligue 1 giants Marseille – who now have former Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi at the helm – form part of that clamour, and has said when delivering an update on Greenwood’s future: “Understand Olympique Marseille have sent formal bid to Manchester United for Mason Greenwood! Talks underway between the two clubs, Greenwood’s still OM main target with agreement getting closer. Man United open to loan with obligation to buy, sell-on clause included.”

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Any loan agreement suggests that United will take up the option to extend Greenwood’s contract for a further 12 months through to 2026, ensuring that he retains value in the transfer market and does not head towards free agency.

West Bromwich Albion continue to look like a dark horse in the Championship promotion race, slowly but surely building momentum with four wins picked up from their last six games in the league.

That means Carlos Corberan's men are solid in their playoff spot, with the likes of Okay Yokuslu starring in the middle of the park as a reliable anchor for the Baggies when the matches have become more tense.

The Turkish midfielder would assist Tom Fellows' opener against Bristol City last time out, the dependable Baggies number 35 proving to be still be a shrewd acquisition on a free transfer.

Whilst Yokuslu's worth to the West Brom cause continues to increase in terms of output and monetary value, one former flashy buy for the second-tier promotion chasers has seen his own transfer value take a tumble to below that of the 30-year-old's.

Matheus Pereira's record at West Brom

Matheus Pereira would take the Hawthorns by storm during an impactful two-season stay with West Brom, managing to be a ray of light during the Baggies' dreadful 2020/21 campaign in the Premier League alongside setting the second tier ablaze.

He would leave West Brom with 20 goals and 26 assists next to his name from 77 games, with 17 of those coming even whilst his West Midlands outfit ended up finishing in a pitiful 19th spot in the top flight.

It felt somewhat inevitable that the Brazilian midfielder, who was described as an "incredible" talent by one of his former coaches, Nate Weiss during the peak of his West Brom powers, would move on to bigger and better things especially in the wake of his side's relegation therefore.

Valerien Ismael would be the Baggies manager that signed off on Pereira's big move to Al-Hilal, with West Brom more than happy to oblige in the end when the mega-rich Saudi Arabian club forked out a reported £16m to land him.

West Brom will now know it was even more of a correct decision to let their former £8m man move on when glancing at his value in 2024, with this estimated worth now – according to Football Transfers – putting him below Yokuslu who the Baggies once purchased for £0.

Matheus Pereira's transfer value in 2024

Residing in his native Brazil currently out on loan at Cruzeiro, the 27-year-old midfielder comes in at a worth of just €2.2M (£1.8m) which is some decline from his bumper Al-Hilal fee.

It's not as if Pereira is struggling either despite this drop-off, with the Cruzeiro number ten amassing five assists from just ten games this year back in South America.

It could well be a testament more to how crucial Yokuslu has become for Corberan's men over Pereira losing his way, with his worth now boosted up to €3.5m (£2.99m) after only joining for free last season.

The Turkish midfielder isn't alone in seeing his value rise drastically in the Baggies camp, with Brandon Thomas-Asante also boasting a huge increase from €0.3m (£256k) to now being worth more than Pereira at €3.4m (£2.90m).

Yokuslu will strive to continue being an asset for this team as they eye up a promotion to the Premier League, whilst ex-West Brom star Pereira will wonder where he'll end up next in his nomadic career after his time in Brazil is over.