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Manchester United and Sir Jim Ratcliffe now look likely to pip Barcelona to the signing of an exciting young midfielder, as they look to build towards the future.

Lammens set for Man Utd debut

The Red Devils return to action on Saturday lunchtime, making the trip to a Brentford side who many have tipped to be in a relegation fight this season.

While United have again flattered to deceive of late, their victory at home to Chelsea last weekend has given them a real chance of stringing together three Premier League wins in a row, should they get the better of the Bees on Saturday and then Sunderland at Old Trafford this weekend.

In terms of team selection away to Brentford, it looks as though recent signing Senne Lammens will make his debut for the Red Devils, with reliable journalist Samuel Luckhurst saying he will be preferred to Altay Bayindir between the sticks.

United supporters will be hoping that the 23-year-old proves to be the solution in goal for Ruben Amorim, following the doomed spell of Andre Onana, as they look to find their first elite goalkeeper since David De Gea. Now, an exciting United transfer update has emerged.

Man Utd set to sign teenage midfielder ahead of Barcelona

According to a fresh update from Africa Foot, Manchester United and Ratcliffe are “very close” to completing the signing of Bsport Academie teenager Mouhamed Dabo.

The 17-year-old has been on trial with the Red Devils in recent weeks, and it now looks as though they have done enough to beat Barcelona to his signature after impressing United officials at Carrington.

At just 17 years of age, Dabo isn’t exactly a household name yet, especially as he isn’t plying his trade in Europe, but the idea of United signing any young player also liked by Barcelona is encouraging.

For too long, they have focused too much on the present instead of building for the future, and snapping up the brightest teenagers in the game is the right approach to take, as well as signing top-quality proven players at the same time.

Dabo, captain of Senegal’s U17 side, is a midfielder with so much promise, and United need to be looking at the middle of the park as a key area of focus, having too often looked imbalanced there in recent years.

£70m Man Utd star unconvinced by Amorim talks and ready to leave in January

A regular first-team player wants to leave Man United in January.

2

By
Dominic Lund

Sep 26, 2025

Granted, the Senegalese wouldn’t arrive as a starter from the off, but if he reaches his potential, he could be the man to eventually excel in front of the defence, with United coaches already impressed with his “clean tackling, vision, composure, ball control, leadership, relentless work, progressive passing, and pace control.”

Robert Lewandowski has returned to full training in a major boost for Barcelona following their El Clasico defeat against arch rivals Real Madrid. The Polish striker is in the final stretch of his recovery from a hamstring tear and is targeting Sunday's clash with Elche, while optimism is also reportedly growing over goalkeeper Joan Garcia's fitness.

• Lewandowski targets Elche return after hamstring tear

  Barcelona have received a significant boost following their El Clasico defeat, with striker completing a full training session on Monday, according to a report from .

  The Polish forward's return to the training ground provides a much-needed dose of optimism for Hansi Flick's side, who lost 2-1 to Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu. Optimism is also reportedly growing within the squad regarding the recovery of goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who is progressing well from knee surgery.

  Lewandowski, 37, joined the group of players who did not start against Real Madrid and completed the session, signalling he is in the "final stretch" of his recovery. As reported by , his progress puts him in contention for a return to the squad for this Sunday's La Liga match against Elche at the Lluís Companys Stadium.

  The striker has been sidelined since suffering a "muscle tear in the hamstring of his left thigh" while on international duty with Poland earlier this month. The injury was a source of frustration for the club, as Lewandowski played all 90 minutes for his national team despite feeling discomfort and wearing a heavy bandage.

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  Barca medical staff remain cautious

  Despite the positive news, Barcelona's medical staff are expected to proceed with caution, particularly after a recent setback involving Raphinha. The Brazilian winger suffered a relapse after being rushed back prematurely ahead of El Clasico.

  Lewandowski has been on a specific training plan to avoid a similar recurrence, but his return would be a major boost for Flick, who has had to rely on Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal to fill the attacking void.

• Joan Garcia recovery progressing ahead of schedule

  In further positive news for the Catalan club, goalkeeper Joan Garcia is recovering well from knee surgery. The 'keeper suffered a tear of the internal meniscus in his left knee during a match against Oviedo, which required an operation on 27 September.

  The initial recovery time was projected to be between four and six weeks. However, reports that the shot stopper is progressing quickly and has not been ruled out for this weekend's match against Elche. His condition will be assessed when the team returns to training on Wednesday, though the club has stressed that no risks will be taken with his fitness.

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  What next for Barcelona?

  Lewandowski's potential return for the Elche match is crucial for Barcelona as they look to recover from their Clasico disappointment. The 2-1 defeat leaves them in second place in La Liga, five points adrift of leaders Real Madrid after 10 matches. The return of their top striker's goals and leadership will be essential in lifting squad morale and closing the gap at the top of the table. 

  After Sunday's encounter against Elche, the Catalan club travel to Belgium to meet Club Brugge on November 5, followed four days later by a trip to Celta Vigo.

Nuno Espírito Santo’s transfer plans for January could be intriguing, as West Ham chairman David Sullivan has now been told the club could sign an experienced playmaker for well under £10 million.

West Ham's transfer plans for January after Nuno appointment

On the field, Nuno is faced with the almighty task of thwarting Arsenal’s set-piece threat and coming away from the Emirates Stadium unscathed this Saturday, after drawing 1-1 at Everton in his opening game as Graham Potter’s immediate replacement.

Away from the pitch, Sullivan, Karren Brady and the Hammers board are reportedly devising plans to reinforce the Portuguese’s ranks after backing him with a three-year contract — a decision driven by Brady — who pushed for Nuno’s appointment (Alex Crook).

Already, we’ve seen credible reports that Nuno is making his intentions with certain squad members crystal clear, with James Ward-Prowse poised to leave in January after being axed from Monday’s matchday squad by West Ham’s new manager.

The 30-year-old has been informed that he has no long-term future at West Ham under Nuno, despite being a regular for Potter, and he could even be replaced by another midfielder in the winter.

Roma star Lorenzo Pellegrini, who can play in Ward-Prowse’s position or further forward in the number 10 role, was heavily linked with a summer exit that failed to materialise, with Gian Piero Gasperini openly stating that he’s free to leave the Stadio Olimpico.

The Italy international, who captained Roma last season and the season before that, has bagged 14 goals and nine assists in all competitions since the beginning of 2023/2024.

With Pellegrini’s deal due to expire at the end of this campaign, and with Gasperini confirming that Roma don’t want to extend the 29-year-old’s deal, he could be available for a good price in January.

West Ham ready to bid for Lorenzo Pellegrini in January

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport and Forza Roma, West Ham are ready to make an offer for Pellegrini in January after expressing interest in the summer window, and they’ve been informed £7 million could be enough to take him to the Premier League.

Even though he is approaching 30, the 36-cap international could be a great option to provide an extra injection of creativity for Nuno, and for a very reasonable cost.

According to WhoScored, Pellegrini is still showing he has hit in his locker, having stood out as Roma’s second-best performer by average match rating.

He’s also earned praise from Gasperini for his passion and creativity so far this season, despite being set to leave in 2026.

PUMA have unveiled a special edition 'Black Panther' Portugal kit celebrating the legendary Eusebio ahead of their latest set of World Cup qualifiers. Cristiano Ronaldo and his team-mates will don the black and gold shirt for their upcoming clash with Armenia later this month on a date that will mark the 60th anniversary of Eusebio's 1965 Ballon d'Or triumph.

• Eusebio honoured by PUMA and Portugal

  Before Ronaldo came along, Eusebio was arguably Portugal's greatest ever player. Six decades on from his Ballon d'Or success, PUMA have tried to honour his legacy with two words defenders feared most: Pantera Negra (Black Panther). Limited to 1965 pieces, the shirt comes pre-embellished with #13 on both the front and back – honouring Eusebio’s iconic number. The kit features the PUMA Cat logo and FPF crest in gold material, a flat knit collar and cuffs, and the ‘Pantera Negra’ back-neck sign off. The new collection also features a custom anthem jacket.

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  Eusebio's widow touched by gesture

  Eusebio married Flora Burheim in 1965, and together they had two daughters, Carla and Sandra. She survives him following his death in 2014, and 11 years on from his passing, his widow has admitted that this PUMA shirt project "fills her with pride".

  "When PUMA reached out to us and shared what they had in mind, I felt deeply moved and honored. Eusébio had a very close relationship with the brand and a sincere friendship with its founder, Mr. Rudolf Dassler. Seeing his memory now honored in such a beautiful and meaningful project fills me with pride. I’m sure Eusébio would be very happy with this tribute," she said.

  Joao Cardoso, the chief marketing and commercial officer at the Portugal FA, added: "Eusébio represents passion, talent, and pride for Portugal. Sixty years after his Ballon d’Or win, his legacy remains alive, inspiring not only those who knew his greatness but also future generations of Portuguese players. The Portuguese Football Federation, in partnership with PUMA, celebrates this legend with a unique kit that blends tradition and innovation, honoring the past and shaping the future of Portuguese football."

• 'Celebrating a football legend'

  Marco Mueller, PUMA’s senior director of product line management performance apparel, said that this tribute shirt is an excellent way to honour a Portuguese great in Eusebio.

  "Eusébio’s legacy transcends generations, and this tribute kit reflects his enduring influence on Portuguese football and global sport," stated Mueller. "By merging heritage-inspired design with modern innovation, we’re celebrating not only a football legend but also the culture and passion that make the game timeless."

  Although this shirt will be debuted for one game only by Ronaldo and Co when Portugal host Armenia in World Cup qualifying on November 16, the kit is on sale as of today. 

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  Eusebio forever in Portugal's hearts

  When Eusebio died, Portugal was in mourning for one of their legends. Shortly after his death, Ronaldo was asked about the great man, and he replied with a glowing tribute. 

  "The feeling is one of sadness. Eusebio was a very important person for Portugal, a real national icon, and he has passed away. Of course, that's extremely sad for all Portuguese people and the whole world, but that's part of life, too," he said. "We'll all be gone one day, and that's why we need to focus on the positive things that happened, and the same goes for his life. He was a very important player, he did a lot of positive things and won many trophies with the national team and for his clubs, especially for Benfica. He will remain in our hearts forever."

  Fast forward to the present, and the Al-Nassr star is targeting a remarkable 1,000 goals in his career. At present, the 40-year-old has a whopping 952 goals to his name, along with 259 assists. And according to Ace Odds, the former Real Madrid star is likely to hit that milestone. Based on his minutes-per-goal ratio throughout his career of 111.2, he has been predicted to hit the 1,000 mark in April 2027, when he is 42. Whether he is still playing then remains to be seen, but Ronaldo is expected to line up for Portugal against Armenia, and potentially against Ireland three days earlier as Roberto Martinez's side aim to book their place at the 2026 World Cup.

Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has praised Robert Lewandowski’s professionalism and influence amid reports the club are not planning to offer him a new contract. The German coach believes the veteran striker’s return is key for Barca to find their rhythm again. The Polish forward made his comeback in the 3-1 win over Elche this week, giving the team a boost amid a growing injury crisis.

• Barca get Lewandowski boost amid injury crisis

  It’s been a tough start to the season for Barcelona, who are struggling with injuries to key players. Lewandowski’s return, though, has given Hansi Flick something to smile about. The 37-year-old came off the bench against Elche after missing three games with a muscle tear, and his presence instantly lifted the group.

  Barca’s injury list remains long, with Raphinha, Pedri, Gavi, Joan Garcia and Marc-Andre ter Stegen still out. However, Flick believes that having Lewandowski back could help steady the ship as the team looks to regain its groove from last season's competitions.

  Lewandowski has been limited to just 10 appearances this season, scoring four goals, but Flick believes his experience and work ethic continue to make a difference.

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  Flick praises Lewandowski’s mindset

  Ahead of Barca's Champions League clash against Club Brugge, Flick was full of praise for Lewandowski, whom he knows well from their successful spell together at Bayern Munich. "I don't know what's in his DNA, but he recovers in three weeks from injuries that should last five," the German told reporters.

  "Although we had some injuries from last season, we started with Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal at their peak, and that gave us a lot of confidence from the beginning. The style of play was great. This season we've lost many players who are now returning. That's a good starting point."

  When asked about the impact of key players returning from injury, Flick revealed how the return of Lewandowski and Dani Olmo instantly elevated the team. 

   "When Lewandowski and Olmo returned, training was different. The level rose considerably, as did that of the younger players. We need these players to reach our full potential. And that takes time. It's not just about winning, but about understanding the situation and managing it," he added.

• Lewandowski remains calm amid uncertain future at Barca

  Flick’s praise comes in the wake of reports that Barca are reluctant to offer the veteran forward a new contract. Earlier, Lewandowski had addressed the situation, admitting that he is calm about the situation despite his current deal expiring at the end of the season. 

  “Regarding my future, I’m calm, it’s not the important moment, there are important things now, the team and my national team. I’m focused on doing my best to win matches and titles," he told reporters.

  “First, I’m not in a hurry. In the end, the most important thing will be how I feel once the season is over. I’ll have to see what to do with my life, but right now I’m focused on scoring goals and winning titles with the team," the 37-year-old added.

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  What's next for Barcelona?

  Barca’s injury list is finally starting to ease, with key players like Joan Garcia and Raphinha close to returning. The Brazilian's availability would give Flick some much-needed options in attack. With Lewandowski and Olmo already back, the German manager could soon have the core of last season’s success reunited. The Spanish giants now travel to Belgium to face Club Brugge in the Champions League, aiming to build on their dominant La Liga win over Elche. They currently sit 12th in the standings with two wins and one defeat, and the focus in the league will be on closing Real Madrid’s five-point lead. Sitting second in La Liga and five points behind Xabi Alonso's men following their 2-1 Clasico loss, the Catalan club come up against Celta on Sunday after their midweek encounter against Club Brugge.

  "The Elche match was a big step forward. The dynamism and spirit improved a lot. It's a good sign," Flick added. "We have the quality to win here [against Brugge], but it won't be easy. It will be a tough match. We respect our opponent. It will be, above all, a question of attitude, mentality, playing as a team and focusing on the game plan."

Everton secured their third Premier League win of the campaign this afternoon with a comeback victory over Crystal Palace at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The Toffees went a goal down in the first half after Daniel Munoz put the visitors ahead, but a second-half fightback from David Moyes’ men secured a sensational victory.

Iliman Ndiaye slotted home a penalty with less than 15 minutes remaining, before Jack Grealish bundled home in stoppage time to secure all three points.

The result takes the side just a couple of points outside the top four of the Premier League, with a real buzz emerging around Merseyside given the impressive displays in recent weeks.

There’s no denying that multiple players played a pivotal role in the triumph over the Eagles, with their showings ending their superb 19-game unbeaten record.

Ndiaye & Grealish’s performances against Palace

As previously mentioned, Ndiaye and Grealish were the players who managed to find the back of the net for Everton – subsequently allowing the side to claim a needed victory.

The Senegalese international has made himself a fan-favourite over the last 12 months since his move, with his showing against the Eagles another one he should be proud of.

Alongside his goal, he created two chances for his teammates, whilst also completing four passes into the final third – further showcasing his creative nouse in attacking areas.

He wasn’t alone in impressing, with Grealish finally netting his first goal for the Toffees after numerous assists following his loan move from Manchester City this summer.

The Englishman completed two dribbles – the most of any player on the pitch – whilst also being fouled four times, with the opposition often unable to get near the 30-year-old.

Such performances showcase how impressive Moyes’ side were to complete the turnaround, but one player failed to take advantage of the chance handed his way this afternoon.

The Everton player who was saved by Ndiaye and Grealish

Despite the impressive showings of the aforementioned duo, numerous Everton players failed to make a huge impression on the contest against Oliver Glasner’s men.

Tyler Dibling was handed his first Premier League start for the Toffees today, but he was unable to prove to the fanbase why the hierarchy forked out £40m for his signature this summer.

The youngster only managed to complete a total of six passes against the Eagles, whilst also completing none of the three dribbles he attempted – highlighting his lack of impact in attacking areas.

However, the big-money addition wasn’t alone in failing to impress, with striker Thierno Barry also struggling to make the most of a rare start at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Like Dibling, the 22-year-old cost a pretty penny this summer, costing a fee in the region of £27m after starring for Villarreal in LaLiga during the 2024/25 campaign.

Today was just his second league start since his transfer, but it appears like the wrong call from Moyes, especially given his lack of impact in Merseyside.

He only featured for the first half before being replaced by Beto at the break, but his withdrawal was understandable after achieving a total of just 18 touches.

His subsequent tally was lower than goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, with the shot-stopper achieving a total of 48 – further showcasing the striker’s lack of impact.

Barry also only managed to register four passes at a completion rate of just 50%, whilst also missing a big chance in the process – making today an afternoon to forget for the talisman.

As a result of his showing, Barry was handed a measly 4/10 match rating by journalist Jack Dawson, topping off what was a dismal outing for the forward.

As a result, Moyes desperately needs to drop the Frenchman after the international break in order to allow Beto to reclaim his starting role at the top end of the pitch.

There’s no denying that Ndiaye and Grealish saved the forward amid his poor showing, with the duo undoubtedly being the shining lights in the sensational victory.

Everton choose priority signing with formal January approach to sign £17m ace

The Toffees are keen on providing competition within their side come January.

By
Sean Markus Clifford

Oct 4, 2025

The Philadelphia Phillies beat the Chicago Cubs 6-2 on Monday, clinching the NL East and their third straight trip to the postseason in the process. With less than a week remaining in the regular season they have a chance to finish with the best record in baseball and have all but clinched a bye in the first round of the playoffs.

Suffice to say, the Phillies are in great position to make a run to the World Series, which they most recently lost in 2022. That's what Phillies owner John Middleton is focused on as the team celebrated clinching their spot in the postseason after Monday's game.

Manager Rob Thomson put his arm around Middleton during his postgame speech during the locker room celebration and reminded the players that during spring training the owner had said he wanted his trophy back. To which Middleton spoke up saying, "I want my f—— trophy back!"

Middleton first bought a piece of the Phillies in 1994. They've been been to the World Series three times since he's been involved, winning one in 2008.

Game 2 of the ALDS between the Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Guardians was scoreless until Tigers outfielder Kerry Carpenter walked up to the plate in the ninth inning.

The Guardians put in star closer Emmanuel Clase, who makes it difficult to get a good hit off of his pitches—he's only had 10 runs counted on him this season. Carpenter found a way, though, as he crushed a 423-foot, three-run home run. This put the Tigers up 3–0 in the ninth in a game they really needed to win. Detroit then held on in the bottom of the ninth to even the ALDS at 1–1.

This was the first three-run home run ever hit against Clase in his MLB career. It's his fifth season in the bigs.

After Carpenter clobbered the ball, he swiftly flipped his bat onto the ground and excitedly began his trot around the bases. It's safe to say he was proud of this home run. He was understandably hyped up when he reached home plate, having had effectively won the game for the Tigers.

Talk about a clutch MLB postseason moment.

The Tigers will head home to host the Guardians in Game 3 of the ALDS on Wednesday, Oct. 9.

Callum McGregor and substitute Callum Osmand scored in extra-time as Celtic emerged victors in an epic Premier Sports Cup semi-final against 10-man Rangers at Hampden Park.

With former Hoops boss Martin O’Neill back in the dugout as interim manager after taking over from Brendan Rodgers last Monday – along with Shaun Maloney – Celtic took the lead through Johnny Kenny after 25 minutes and then Gers midfielder Thelo Aasgaard was shown a straight red card by referee Nick Walsh for a reckless challenge on Anthony Ralston.

The Ibrox side, with new head coach Danny Rohl taking charge of his first Old Firm game, fought back in the second half with captain James Tavernier levelling from the spot in the 81st minute to take the game to extra-time.

However, McGregor thundered in a goal three minutes after the restart, before teenager Osmand scored his first Celtic goal 15 minutes later for a 3-1 win which sets up a meeting with St Mirren in the final on December 14 at the national stadium.

An exhausting afternoon began with Celtic quickly into their stride. Japan striker Daizen Maeda was through and shot straight at Jack Butland but the Gers goalkeeper was as bemused as anyone seconds later when Ibrox defender Nasser Djiga’s attempted clearance cannoned off midfielder Nicolas Raskin and ended up in the Rangers net, only for VAR to confirm Maeda was offside in the build-up.

Moments later, Gers striker Youssef Chermiti missed the target from six yards after Mohamed Diomande had picked him out.

However, when Kenny jumped highest in the box to head in an Arne Engels corner with barely a challenge from four blue jerseys around him, Celtic were deservedly ahead.

Butland saved a powerful Kenny drive before Hoops keeper Kasper Schmeichel blocked a Raskin drive with his leg after a Gers counter, then Chermiti failed to connect properly with Tavernier’s free-kick when only two yards from goal.

When the hitherto anonymous Aasgaard was sent packing for a needless lunge at Ralston, Rangers’ task became even more difficult.

There were loud and angry Gers shouts for a red card when Celtic defender Auston Trusty left his boot on Butland’s face after the keeper had gathered the ball but Walsh produced only a yellow.

What VAR said on Trusty yellow card in Celtic vs Rangers

Talking about the incident at half-time on Premier Sports, it was confirmed that “VAR said” Trusty’s challenge was “reckless” but was still only worthy of a yellow card.

Better than Ange: Celtic reach out to hire "tactically unbeatable" manager

Juventus are preparing to make a move for AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan as contract talks between the French international and the Rossoneri stall, opening the door for a potential free summer transfer. The Bianconeri see Maignan as the perfect long-term replacement and are ready to challenge Chelsea, who have been tracking the player for months.

• Juventus ready to pounce as Milan talks stall

  According to , the Serie A giants have intensified their interest in the French shot stopper following a breakdown in his contract negotiations with the Rossoneri. Maignan’s current deal runs until June 2026, but talks over an extension have been on hold since April. Milan had reportedly offered a new contract until 2028, with an increased salary from €2.8 million to €5.5m per year. However, discussions stalled due to concerns over the Frenchman's long-term fitness and availability. The lack of progress has fuelled speculation that the 30-year-old could look for a new challenge.

  Maignan joined Milan from Lille in 2021 and has since been a key figure in their defensive success. His leadership and experience have made him one of the top goalkeepers in Europe, and Juventus are now hoping to take advantage of Milan’s hesitation.

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  Chelsea emerge as main threat in Maignan’s race

  The biggest threat to Juventus in the race for Maignan is Chelsea, who are still very much in the mix for the 30-year-old, having shown strong interest in him during the summer. The Blues tried to bring him to Stamford Bridge but were unable to strike a deal with Milan. With the Premier League side still searching for a long-term solution in goal, they are expected to make another push next summer. The London giants have the capacity to throw in cash to attract the Milan goalkeeper to London, which Juventus will be well aware of. 

  The Old Lady’s biggest advantage over the Blues could be Maignan’s own desire to stay in Italy, having lived in the country for four years. That, along with Juventus’ growing French connection, from CEO Damien Comolli to his national teammate Khephren Thuram and former Milan defender Pierre Kalulu, could play a big role in convincing the goalkeeper to make the switch to Turin.

• Financial pressure shaping Juventus’ transfer plans

  Juventus’ renewed interest in Maignan comes at a time when the club’s finances are once again under the microscope. UEFA has opened fresh proceedings into alleged financial irregularities between 2022 and 2025, which could lead to more sanctions down the line.

  The club have already served a one-year European ban and paid a €20m fine for breaching Financial Fair Play rules. On top of that, the FIGC docked them 10 points in the 2022-23 season for false accounting in transfer deals.

  Because of all this, Juventus have shifted their transfer approach, focusing on free agents and low-cost signings instead of big-money moves. Maignan’s situation could be the perfect opportunity to bring in world-class talent without breaking the bank.

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  Zeki Celik also on Juventus’ radar

  Maignan isn’t the only potential free agent Juventus are watching. The club have also shown interest in Roma defender Zeki Celik, who will also become a free agent next summer. However, unlike the Frenchman's situation, the Turkish international is currently in talks with the club over a renewal. While optimism remains in the Italian capital about an agreement, Juventus have already made initial inquiries and could intervene if the situation drags on. Celik played 101 matches alongside Maignan during their time together at Lille, and the idea of reuniting the duo in Turin appeals to the Bianconeri’s management as they seek to rebuild their core amid a struggling season.

  The club sacked Igor Tudor after an eight-game winless streak and appointed Luciano Spalletti to save their season. But so far, it’s been a mixed start, with the Italian managing one win and two draws in his first three games. The Old Lady is sitting sixth in the Serie A table and will face Fiorentina after the international break.