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Leeds United have lost a number of their key players this summer but haven't been as active in the transfer market as expected, however, a new update has now emerged on the club's pursuit of a target.

What's the latest Leeds transfer news?

According to Yorkshire Evening Post's Graham Smyth, Leeds remain interested in signing Rangers midfielder Glen Kamara this summer.

As per the report, Smyth claims that the Whites are yet again exploring the possibility of snapping up the services of Kamara, which has been prompted by Bournemouth's trigger of Tyler Adams' release clause.

The future of Adams has been a huge talking point over the last week with Chelsea initially triggering the USMNT star's £20m buy-out clause, but backing out of the deal when their opportunity to snap up the services of Moises Caicedo was put into doubt due to a record-breaking bid from Liverpool.

Now it has been revealed by Italian journalist and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano that the Cherries have triggered the release clause instead.

It still remains to be seen whether Adams will agree personal terms and if he will pass his medical with the south coast side, however, it is looking more and more likely that he will depart to return to the Premier League without Leeds.

Read the latest Leeds transfer news HERE…

How good is Glen Kamara?

As a result, the opportunity to sign Kamara could not come at a better time for Daniel Farke, as the German coach will have a huge role to fill in the centre of the pitch for the Championship campaign ahead.

Over 22 Scottish Premiership appearances last season, the 27-year-old scored one goal and tallied up an 89% pass completion rate, as well as averaging one key pass and winning 2.2 duels per game, as per SofaScore.

Not only that, Kamara has been an incredible presence in Finland's Euros qualifiers recently where he was a huge contributor in both meetings with San Marino and Slovenia this summer.

Over two appearances, the Gers gem scored once, successfully completed 75% of his dribble attempts and tallied up an 88% pass completion, proving that he is a huge presence both on the domestic and international stage.

The Finland international has been the recipient of high praise over his career so far, with Dundee coach Neil McCann waxing lyrical about Kamara's strengths in an interview with The Athletic:

"He’s a special talent. He makes things look easy and sometimes the easy thing is not as simple as it looks.

"He’s lightning-quick, but he doesn’t show it. He’s a player who takes instruction well. Look at how he plays with Finland and there is clearly a different dynamic as he plays more like a No 8 where he can go forward and burst towards the box, whereas at Rangers he is playing a different style."

With that being said, it would be a no-brainer for Leeds to snap up the services of Kamara – who has a reported £5m price tag – as he could definitely ease the blow of losing Adams and provide Farke with an experienced midfielder to deploy in the middle third.

Manchester United have now come forward to sign Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti, but he has allegedly agreed personal terms with another club, according to a report from France.

What's the latest Man United transfer news?

Man United are still searching for a new central midfielder, despite having already added Mason Mount to their ranks this summer, and they are still firmly in the race for Fiorentina's Sofyan Amrabat, who they seemingly stand a good chance of signing.

In an interview with GiveMeSport, journalist Ben Jacobs has now suggested Amrabat would be keen on a move to Old Trafford, saying:

“On the Amrabat side, I think the personal terms and the player desire have all been simpler, which is great for Manchester United's point of view because it means they can control the transfer’s timeline.”

Journalist Dean Jones has claimed that United are "hot on" the Fiorentina midfielder, but they could still face competition for his signature from Liverpool, who are said to have done their "due diligence on the player side."

As such, it is important the Red Devils have some alternative options in mind, and according to the print edition of L'Equipe (via PSG Talk), they have come forward for Verratti in recent days, with a move to Old Trafford still a possibility, but there's a problem.

The Italian is said to have already agreed personal terms on a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli, who are now negotiating with PSG to finalise the deal in the coming days, so Man United may have to move swiftly if they are to hijack the deal.

Not only will United have to fend off interest from Al-Ahli, but there is also interest from reigning Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, so there is likely to be stiff competition for the 30-year-old's signature.

Read The Latest Man United Transfer News HERE

What team did Marco Verratti play for before PSG?

The Italy international, on £238,000-a-week, has made a name for himself in Ligue 1, but he first made his breakthrough with Italian side Pescara, making 31 appearances in the 2011-12 Serie B season before completing his move to the Parc des Princes.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has lavished praise on the maestro in the past, saying:

“I’m in love with him. He is exceptional. Even under pressure, he manages to find those passes that allow the midfield to be free.

“He’s not a player for long passes but you can always count on him to build the game. We managed to control him better in the second half but in the first half he was really exceptional.”

Although the former Pescara man does not offer much in the way of attacking contributions, failing to score a goal last season, he makes up for it with his exceptional passing ability, and his defensive output, ranking in the 94th percentile for tackles per 90 in the past year, when compared to his positional peers.

The midfielder could be a great signing for Man United, but they will have to move swiftly, given that he is closing in on a move to Al-Ahli, so it could be one to watch.

Leeds United officially completed their fifth signing of the summer transfer window on Thursday as they announced the arrival of Joel Piroe from Championship rivals Swansea.

Who have Leeds signed this summer?

Whites boss Daniel Farke had already bolstered his side with the additions of Joe Rodon on loan from Tottenham Hotspur, and Ethan Ampadu, Karl Darlow, and Sam Byram on permanent deals.

Piroe has now joined that list for a reported fee of £10m from the Swans to improve the German head coach's options at the top end of the pitch this season.

Read the latest Leeds transfer news HERE…

That may not be the end of their business, however, and another player who could be on his way to Elland Road if the club opt to follow up on their interest in him is USMNT star Josh Sargent.

How good is Josh Sargent?

The 23-year-old striker has proven to be a consistent Championship performer so far this season and one that could come in and strike up an exciting partnership with Piroe at the top end of the pitch.

Sargent is adept at playing out wide on the right or as a centre-forward, and this means that Farke could utilise him in tandem with the Dutch marksman, or as competition for him throughout the year.

The Norwich City star, who was signed by the German boss in 2021, has enjoyed a terrific start to the season as he has averaged a Sofascore rating of 7.27 and chipped in with two goals alongside one assist in three appearances.

This comes after the former Werder Bremen hotshot racked up 13 goals and five ‘big chances’ created in 37 Championship starts for the Canaries throughout the 2022/23 campaign.

These statistics show that the American international has the quality to provide goals and assists at an impressive rate at this level, which could provide Farke's team with a significant boost as Leeds struggled for goals in the Premier League last term.

No current Whites forward managed more than five top-flight strikes and having Piroe and Sargent up front could allow supporters to leave any worries about a lack of a goal threat behind as they are both proven Championship scorers.

The £10m-rated Dutchman plundered an outstanding 19 goals for Swansea during the 2022/23 campaign and that came after he racked up 22 league goals during the previous season.

Piroe knows how to find the back of the net on a regular basis from a centre-forward position and has the quality to be Farke's outstanding goalscoring option at the top end of the pitch, if he is able to translate his form for the Swans over to Yorkshire.

Sargent's versatility means that he could slot in alongside the 24-year-old hotshot and this could provide Leeds with a fearsome duo in the final third, as opposition defences would have two huge goal threats to worry about each match, which was far from the case for the club last term with their lack of consistent goalscorers.

Therefore, the 6 foot 1 finisher, who was recently described as a "phenomenal talent" by teammate Ashley Barnes, could be a fantastic signing for the Whites and Farke should pursue a deal for his former striker in spite of the signing of Piroe.

Marcus Rashford's early career is a remarkable tale of a young football prodigy rising through the ranks of Manchester United and making an indelible mark on English football. Born on October 31, 1997, in Wythenshawe, England, Rashford joined Man United's youth academy at the tender age of seven. His exceptional talent quickly became evident as he progressed through the ranks.

Rashford made his senior debut for the Red Devils in February 2016, just days before his 18th birthday, when he was called up due to an injury crisis at the club. In that debut, he scored twice against FC Midtjylland in the Europa League, instantly announcing himself on the big stage.

The young striker's impressive performances continued, and he quickly became a key player for Manchester United. In his debut Premier League season (2015/2016), Rashford scored eight goals in 18 appearances in all competitions. He continued to flourish, setting numerous records along the way, including becoming the youngest player to score in his first Premier League Manchester Derby.

Rashford's early career also saw him break into the England national team, making his senior debut in May 2016. He has since become an integral part of the national squad, playing a crucial role in the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups and Euro 2020.

With his explosive pace, technical prowess and ability to score crucial goals, Rashford's journey from a young academy prospect to a household name in English football is a testament to his immense talent and dedication to the sport.

Marcus Rashford at Manchester United

Rashford's career at Man United has been nothing short of a fairy tale, characterized by his meteoric rise from the club's youth academy to becoming one of the brightest stars in English football. Since his debut in 2016, Rashford has etched his name into the annals of the club's history with his skill, speed and knack for scoring crucial goals.

His journey at Manchester United began when he joined the club's youth academy at the age of seven. His exceptional talent soon caught the eye of the coaching staff, and he progressed rapidly through the ranks. His big moment arrived in February 2016 when an injury crisis forced then-manager Louis van Gaal to promote Rashford to the senior squad.

Rashford's debut was nothing short of sensational. He scored a brace against FC Midtjylland in the Europa League, and in his Premier League debut a few days later, he repeated the feat with two more goals against Arsenal. The striker's blistering start endeared him to the fans, and he went on to score crucial goals in the league, helping Manchester United secure a top-four finish.

Rashford's early success was no fluke. In his first full season (2016/2017), he scored 11 goals in 53 appearances in all competitions. His versatility allowed him to play across the front line, and his pace and dribbling skills made him a constant threat to opposition defenders.

As a result of his early success Rashford's career at Man United is studded with records and milestones, including being the youngest player to score for the club in a European competition and the youngest player to score for Man United in a Manchester Derby.

At the age of just 23, in his fourth full season for Man United, Rashford scored his 100th goal for the club.

Beyond his on-field exploits, Marcus Rashford has become a symbol of social responsibility. His advocacy for child poverty and food insecurity issues in the UK has made him a beloved figure both within and outside the football world. Rashford's successful campaign to extend free school meals for disadvantaged children during the COVID-19 pandemic earned him widespread praise and recognition.

Despite his remarkable career, Rashford has faced his share of setbacks, including injuries that sidelined him at various points. However, he has always shown resilience and determination, returning stronger each time to continue making an impact for the Red Devils.

By the end of the 2022/2023 season, Rashford record for Man United stood at 124 goals in 363 first-team appearances. It is the 2022/2023 season that is so far the most successful of Rashford's career, having scored 30 goals in 56 appearances in all competitions.

Rashford's Honours at Manchester United

Marcus Rashford with England

Marcus Rashford's career with England has been marked by his electrifying pace, clinical finishing and his ability to deliver on the biggest international stages. Since making his senior debut in 2016, Rashford has become an integral part of the Three Lions' setup, contributing significantly to England's campaigns in various tournaments.

His senior international debut for England arrived on May 27, 2016, in a friendly match against Australia. His impressive club performances had earned him a call-up to the national team, making him the youngest English player to debut at the age of 18 years and 209 days.

Rashford has represented England in major international tournaments, including the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cup and Euro 2020. At the 2018 World Cup in Russia, he played a key role in England's run to the semi-finals, scoring a vital goal against Tunisia in the group stage. His pace and dynamism added a new dimension to England's attack.

During Euro 2020, Rashford continued to be a valuable asset. Although England narrowly missed out on winning the tournament, Rashford played a crucial role, helping the team reach the final, where they were runners-up to Italy.

At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Rashford scored three goals but also set a handful of records in the process. His goal after just 49 seconds of coming on as a substitute against Iran became the fastest-ever goal by a substitute in World Cup history, while he was also the scorer of England's 100th goal in all World Cups. Additionally, he became only the second-ever Man United player to score three or more goals at a single World Cup, after Bobby Charlton.

To date, Rashford's England record stands at 16 goals in 53 appearances.

Marcus Rashford's Personal Accolades & Records

Marcus Rashford's remarkable career has been adorned with numerous personal records and prestigious awards.

Key milestones include his debut in February 2016, where he scored twice against FC Midtjylland, becoming the youngest Englishman to score in his first European competition appearance. His first Premier League goals against Arsenal a few days later further cemented his rising star status.

Rashford's consistency led to the prestigious Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award for Manchester United in 2016. He continued to shine, setting records like being the youngest player to score in a Manchester Derby.

Internationally, Rashford has been an England regular, representing the Three Lions in major tournaments like the 2018 FIFA World Cup and Euro 2020.

Beyond the field, Rashford's advocacy for child poverty issues earned him the Pride of Britain Award and an MBE. These accolades not only showcase his footballing prowess but also his impact on society, making him a true role model and inspirational figure.

Rashford's Personal Honours

Journalist Paul Brown has shared some detail behind a "serious" last-gasp deadline day Fulham bid to sign Tottenham star Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.

Fulham deadline day signings

Despite the links to a plethora of stars very late in the window, Fulham did little business yesterday but did manage to seal a dramatic late loan move for AC Milan defender Fode Ballo-Toure.

The Senegal international, who plays as a left-back, joins Adama Traore, Raul Jimenez, Calvin Bassey, Steven Benda, Alex Iwobi and former Leicester City defender Timothy Castagne as Marco Silva's main summer signings.

Fulham were also boosted by star midfielder Joao Palhinha remaining at the club, as his proposed move to Bayern Munich collapsed in the eleventh hour.

The Portugal international had even travelled for a medical with Bayern, but the Whites ultimately didn't give the green light to the move, possibly because they couldn't source a late replacement.

Hojbjerg, who was a mainstay for Spurs under Antonio Conte last season, has found game time difficult to come by in Ange Postecoglou's new-look Tottenham system.

The Dane, as a result, was being chased by Fulham during the latter stages of the summer window – with journalist Brown sharing what he's heard on the matter to GiveMeSport.

Indeed, it is believed Fulham were the "last club" to make a "serious" last-ditch offer to sign Hojbjerg, but the move didn't come to fruition.

The former Southampton star is now left in "limbo" as a result of this, as explained by Brown to GMS:

“Hojbjerg is also one who isn't going to be allowed to leave. I think Fulham were the last club to make a serious offer, but they no longer need to decide what to do about how they replace Joao Palhinha, and I'm not sure he was their first choice there.

“So, he's currently in limbo. It is interesting that Ange Postecoglou also said today that he's not going to be freezing anyone out. If any of the fringe players they're trying to sell end up staying beyond the deadline, they will be reintegrated.

“He's not quite as strict on squad numbers as other managers and he is willing to work with a slightly bigger squad, while he says that right now it's not a problem in terms of numbers in training or anything like that.

How good is Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg?

While Palhinha staying reduces the need for Hojbjerg, in a hypothetical universe, he may well have been a capable deputy for the ex-Sporting CP ace.

The Denmark international ranked as one of Spurs' best-performing players per 90 last term, according to WhoScored, with Hojbjerg also registering the highest pass accuracy (88.6%) of any Tottenham player with over 10 starts.

He chipped in with nine goal contributions in the league, four goals and five assists specifically, and former Spurs keeper Paul Robinson praised Hojbjerg for his performances at the back end of last year.

"I’ve been surprised by how much he has stepped up this year," said Robinson to Football Insider.

“I thought he was the one who would make way for Yves Bissouma. The club spent a lot of money on Bissouma. I think Hojbjerg recognised that and stepped up.

“He is playing to a level that we have never seen before. He is playing his best football in a Spurs shirt."

Aston Villa are leading the race to sign a new attacking superstar from overseas, and a fresh report has shared details of where the two parties currently stand in negotiations.

What's the latest transfer news at Aston Villa?

Unai Emery had a busy summer transfer window, bringing in a total of five fresh faces, with Moussa Diaby joining permanently from Bayer Leverkusen, Pau Torres from Villarreal, Nicolo Zaniolo and Clement Lenglet both signing on loan and Youri Tielemans on a free transfer from Leicester City.

In terms of outgoings, Cameron Archer, Jaden Philogene-Bidace, Marvelous Nakamba, Keinan Davis, Ashley Young, Wesley, Philippe Coutinho, Morgan Sanson and Viljami Sinisalo all sealed exits on either a temporary or permanent basis, leaving room for the boss to bolster his ranks in January.

One of the players to have been linked with a move a number of times in the past is Sporting CP’s Pedro Goncalves, with the left-winger having previously been the subject of enquiries from the side in the Midlands.

Whilst reports suggested that the top-flight side walked away from a deal for the 25-year-old due to the €80m (£68m) release clause included in his contract, Correio Da Manha have since claimed that the club remain interested in a future swoop for the Portuguese sensation, with further details on the board’s pursuit having now emerged.

Are Aston Villa signing Pedro Goncalves?

According to Portuguese newspaper O Jogo (via Sport Witness), Aston Villa are “particularly” the club in pole position to sign Goncalves, despite him receiving other “approaches” from the Premier League.

NSWE, Monchi and Emery are in “ongoing” contact regarding a deal for the attacker.

Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are also “attentive” to his situation, though having seen a bid turned down over the summer, the Villa Park outfit appear to be taking a second bite of the cherry.

How many goals has Pedro Goncalves scored?

During his time at Sporting CP, Goncalves has racked up a remarkable 93 contributions (59 goals and 34 assists) in 133 appearances for Ruben Amorim’s side, so should he put pen to paper at Aston Villa in the near future, it would be a massive coup for Emery.

The Jorge Pires client has continued his impressive form this season having so far whipped a total of 24 crosses into the opposition’s box which is more than any of his fellow teammates, alongside having 12 shots himself which is the second-highest tally at the Jose Alvalade Stadium, via FBRef.

The Vidago native, who has been nicknamed the “New Bruno Fernandes” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, is also flexible in where he plays having been deployed in six different positions since the start of his career, including three roles in the final third and three in the midfield, so his versatility would be another fantastic attribute for the boss to have at his disposal.

Finally, Goncalves knows what it takes to compete and be successful at the highest level having won four trophies with his current club, not to mention the individual recognition he’s received on the international stage having been named Portugal’s Player of the Season in 2021.

Glasgow Rangers will be without another of their first-team players for tonight’s Europa League group stage game vs Real Betis, following a fresh update.

Who is injured at Rangers?

At Ibrox, Michael Beale currently has both Todd Cantwell and Danilo on the sidelines with their own respective injuries, and whilst Kieran Dowell is also out of action, the boss recently provided a positive update on his fitness.

The Light Blues manager has confirmed that the summer signing is hoping to stage his comeback during the Scottish Premiership game against Aberdeen on September 30th having made positive progress in training.

However, Nicolas Raskin is also set to be unavailable for selection having missed training on Wednesday after sustaining a suspected calf injury, via Sky Sports, which is a real shame for the central midfielder who has been impressive following his arrival at the start of the new year.

Back in January, Belgium’s youth international put pen to paper north of the border from Standard Liege and he’s since gone on to make a total of 25 appearances, though taking into consideration the next update, he’ll have to wait a little bit longer to make his 26th.

How long is Nicolas Raskin out for?

Speaking during his pre-match press conference on Wednesday, Beale confirmed that Raskin is ruled out of this evening’s fixture vs Manuel Pellegrini’s side but failed to specify how long for in total, whilst also delivering an update on Cantwell and Danilo. He said:

“Nico Raskin is out with a calf problem – Raskin, Cantwell and Danilo will be missing. We still have options in midfield – we are losing a good player but we have good ones coming in. Danilo has had a successful surgery on the areas impacted. He will be back in non-contact training come the end of the international break.”

What type of player is Nicolas Raskin?

Raskin is naturally a central midfielder so he is capable of making an impact at both ends of the pitch, and supporters will have seen that following his arrival at Rangers having been dubbed a “different class” in comparison to his fellow teammates by journalist Josh Bunting.

Sponsored by Adidas, the 22-year-old has been averaging 2.4 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per league game so far this season so loves to get stuck into challenges and win back possession for his team, via WhoScored, but he’s also provided two assists since joining so can get involved with the action in the final third.

Furthermore, Liege’s native is a versatile operator having been deployed in five different positions over the pitch since the start of his career, including four roles in the midfield and even out wide on the right-wing, and this is another attractive attribute that the gaffer will have to cope without.

The Teddy Bears having to enter tonight’s encounter without Raskin will definitely be a blow to Beale, but there’s no doubt that he will work hard on his recovery to ensure that he can get back on the pitch as soon as possible.

Erling Haaland will reportedly demand a release clause in his Manchester City contract that would allow him to keep his Real Madrid dream alive.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

• Haaland set to resume contract talks with City
• Will demand a release clause in his contract
• Norwegian wants to keep his options open

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Haaland completed his high-profile transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester City in 2022, signing a five-year deal. However, the striker's representative, Rafaela Pimienta, included a clause allowing the player to depart in the summer of 2024 for a fee affordable to clubs outside England. This clause is said to decrease in value over time, making it an enticing proposition for potential suitors like Real Madrid.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  According towhile City remain keen on extending Haaland's contract, it is believed that Pimienta will continue to negotiate terms that would continue to have a release clause in the new deal, to keep the possibility of a move open. This strategic approach aligns with Haaland's willingness to explore opportunities, particularly with Real Madrid.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  However, Real Madrid face a financial challenge in accommodating both Haaland and Kylian Mbappe, in their well-defined salary structure. But the club's revamped financial resources, courtesy of the renovated Bernabeu stadium, may facilitate such high-profile signings.

  It is understood that Madrid have already negotiated a salary for Mbappe a salary that does not violate the existing wage hierarchy as the French striker will be earning equal to Jude Bellingham. Nonetheless, Haaland's ownership of 100 per cent of his image rights poses another obstacle for the club, as Los Blancos traditionally prefer to share such rights with players.

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  WHAT NEXT?

  Both Haaland and Real Madrid must find an amicable solution to the financial conundrum that would hinder the transfer should they decide to pursue one. However, the allure of the Spanish capital club, coupled with Haaland's openness to the prospect, suggests that the possibility of him donning the white jersey remains palpable in the coming years.

Former Arsenal star and BBC pundit Ian Wright has explained how an "underrated" figure at Tottenham is completely surprising him.

Latest Spurs news

Ange Postecoglou has, so far, taken the Premier League by storm after arriving from Celtic in the summer. The Australian's attack-minded, exciting style of play is reinvigorating supporters and providing some hope that they're turning a corner after Antonio Conte's regrettable last season in charge of the club. Winning five out of their opening seven league matches, Spurs currently sit second in the table with as many as goals scored as last season's treble-winners Man City.

Tottenham's victories over Bournemouth, Man United, Burnley, Sheffield United and Liverpool, alongside 2-2 draws with both Brentford and Arsenal – put them in very good stead heading into their next clash against Luton Town. Postecoglou's latest win over Liverpool came in very dramatic circumstances, with the Reds having two men sent off and a Luis Diaz goal disallowed. Strikes from Son Heung-min and an own goal from Joel Matip cancelled out Cody Gakpo's strike to seal a huge win for Tottenham, with Postecoglou hailing his team's continued spirit.

“It wasn’t an easy game for us, we knew it wouldn’t be, and even in the circumstances, we had some unique challenges," said the Australian.

"For some of these guys, this will be the first time they’ve faced that type of scenario, and for the most part, we handled it okay. Again, getting that late winner helps build the belief and spirit in the group. The thing about Liverpool, even with 10 men, they are equally as dangerous because the game plan is the same, they play on mistakes, they have world-class players up front who can hurt you. I thought the second half was better because we stayed a bit calmer, maintained our pressure in the wide areas and got our reward.”

How good is Ange Postecoglou?

After winning an array of major trophies both in Asia and Scotland, Postecoglou's brand of "Ange-ball" is now turning many heads in England. You could be forgiven for thinking this was a risky appointment at first, especially given Spurs were linked with the likes of Julian Nagelsmann and Luis Enrique as replacements for Conte, but their alternative option is proving doubters wrong thus far.

BBC pundit Wright, speaking to Premier League productions this week [02/10/23 at 2:20 pm], has said that Tottenham's popular new manager has taken him completely by surprise.

“It’s underrated,” said Wright [via HITC].

“It’s an underrated effort he is doing, at the minute. Major Ange Postecoglou fans. I remember people saying at the start that ‘he needs to start well’. With the players he has got, you want them to do well and win some games and stuff. But I didn’t expect it to be in the grove it is now and so quickly.

“Not just physically, but mentally as well. They know what they are doing – we are looking at a team that we know that will improve simply because Bentancur is to come back.”

The 58-year-old, as a result of Spurs' early-season form and arguable charisma, is quickly charming both supporters and on-lookers.

There has been some interesting news on the Rangers manager search this week as Ibrox chiefs continue to scour for Michael Beale's replacement.

Why was Michael Beale sacked?

Beale was given his marching orders earlier this week following more calls for the Englishman to go, with Rangers enduring a poor start to the new Scottish Premiership campaign. Their 3-1 loss to Aberdeen last Saturday, a match where the players were booed off yet again, appeared to be the final straw as Rangers decided to part company. The result leaves them seven points off Old Firm rivals Celtic already as their title hopes are plunged into some doubt this early-on.

Beale was brought in from QPR around 10 months ago to replace Giovanni van Bronckhorst, but a quite unacceptable three losses from Rangers' opening seven Scottish top flight matches resulted in his early-season dismissal. Releasing a statement, the club confirmed Beale's exit after results started to fall well below everybody's expectations.

"Results this season have fallen short of what everyone connected to Rangers would expect. Therefore, the decision was reached today to terminate the contract of the manager, as well as the contracts of coaches Neil Banfield, Damian Matthew, Harry Watling and Jack Ade."

Who will replace Beale at Rangers?

Their next managerial move will be pivotal in determining how Rangers will bounce back, with there being many candidates linked to taking the job. The likes of former Eintracht Frankfurt boss Oliver Glasner and Yokohama F. Marinos head coach Kevin Muscat have been mentioned as Rangers managerial candidates this week.

According to Football Insider and journalist Pete O'Rourke, ex-Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has held talks with Rangers and is said to be very keen on replacing Beale in Glasgow. However, according to reports in the last 24 hours, they've made a decision over hiring him. It's not good news for the 45-year-old, though, as the media claim Lampard is now out of the running despite his alleged interest in taking the job.

Lampard most recently served as interim boss of Chelsea following the sacking of Graham Potter last season, but he has since been without a club. The ex-England international star also served as Everton head coach for a time, steering them away from relegation at the end of 2021/2022. A bad start to the following season saw Lampard relieved of his duties at Goodison Park, with Sean Dyche then replacing him.

Perhaps his most notable achievement to date is guiding Derby County to the Championship play-offs in 2019, where they reached the final but couldn't quite do enough to secure promotion to the Premier League. A big name coach, Lampard would've been an interesting appointment given his lack of success in recent seasons. Rangers hired another former England star, Steven Gerrard, in 2018 – an appointment which proved the right one as they eventually ended their long wait for a Scottish league title, and finally thwarted Celtic's stranglehold on the division for a time.

However, it is very debatable that a move for Lampard could've bared the same fruit.