حمل فوز آرسنال أمام وست هام بهدفين نظيفين مساء أمس في الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز، خبراً سيئاً بإصابة أحد لاعبيه المهمين قبل فترة التوقف الدولي.
وأكد نادي آرسنال عبر موقعه الرسمي: “لقد تم استبعاد مارتن أوديجارد من منتخب النرويج للمباراتين القادمتين ضد نيوزيلندا ومنتخب آخر بعد تعرضه لإصابة في الرباط الجانبي للركبة اليسرى خلال الشوط الأول في الفوز ضد وست هام يونايتد أمس السبت”.
وسيستمر مارتن أوديجارد في الخضوع للتقييم والعلاج من قبل الفريق الطبي في مركز تدريب سوبها ريالتي خلال فترة التوقف الدولي بهدف العودة للملاعب في أقرب وقت ممكن.
اقرأ أيضاً.. أرتيتا يوضح إصابتي رايس وأوديجارد بعد فوز آرسنال على وست هام
وسيلتقي منتخب النرويج ضد أحد المنتخبات في تصفيات أوروبا المؤهلة لمونديال 2026 يوم السبت 11 أكتوبر، ثم يلتقي منتخب نيوزيلندا ودياً يوم الثلاثاء 14 أكتوبر.
وأصبح آرسنال يحتل صدارة ترتيب الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز برصيد 16 نقطة، ويبتعد عن ليفربول بطل البريميرليج الموسم الماضي في الوصافة بفارق نقطة واحدة.
Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac asks the media to refrain from turning Jobe Bellingham's playing time concerns into a media frenzy as he warned the midfielder he will have to fight for a place in the starting XI. He claims the crucial thing is to perform as a team after the England international's was benched for the Champions League opener against Juventus on Tuesday.
Bellingham dropped from Champions League clash
Bellingham hasn't had the perfect start at Dortmund. Despite his strong performances in pre-season and an impressive debut at the Club World Cup, where he scored his first goal, he has struggled to get consistent playing time under coach Kovac. The Dortmund manager has been cautious in using him, especially in big matches like the Champions League opener against Juventus, where Bellingham was left on the bench.
Advertisement
AFP
Dortmund open up on Bellingham's lack of playing time
Bellingham was introduced in the 71st minute after replacing Felix Nmecha. This was his second consecutive game coming off the bench for Dortmund, sparking questions about Kovac's trust in him.
"I understand the questions, but we're at BVB, and at BVB, there's a lot of competition and quality in the team," the coach told reporters. "I know what he can do. He's 19 years old and new to us. So we don't need to write anything that's totally unimportant. The crucial thing is that we perform as a team; everyone is part of that."
Sporting director Sebastian Kehl also explained the situation, stating: "We've put a lot of effort into him (Bellingham) and don't need a topic about him every three days. In the end, we have a very, very large squad, which gives the coach several options."
Bellingham's parents confronted Dortmund sporting director
After Bellingham was substituted at halftime in Dortmund's 3-3 draw with St. Pauli, his parents confronted sporting director Kehl in the tunnel to discuss his early withdrawal. The heated exchange prompted Dortmund to issue a firm reminder that family members are barred from restricted areas and that such incidents must not be repeated.
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Getty Images Sport
Dortmund starts Champions League campaign with a draw
Despite some commendable performances and taking a two-goal lead in the 86th minute, the Bundesliga club were unable to clinch a win against Juventus as the game ended in a 4-4 draw after two-late strikes from Dusan Vlahovic and Llyod Kelly. Kovac's side will now be facing Wolfsburg in their next league game on September 21, with the media keeping a close watch on Bellingham's selection.
Guillermo Ochoa’s AEL Limassol debut ended in disaster, as the Mexican goalkeeper conceded five goals in a heavy 5-0 loss to Omonia on Monday. The setback capped a turbulent summer in which Ochoa served as a Gold Cup backup and saw a move to Spanish side Burgos collapse before landing in Cyprus to chase regular minutes.
AEL LIMASSOLFour months without action
It took Ochoa four long months to step back onto a professional pitch, but his long-awaited debut in Cyprus turned out to be a disaster. His last official appearance dated back to May, when he played for AVS in Portugal’s Primeira Liga – a 3-0 defeat to Moreirense that closed his chapter in that league.
The defeat dropped AEL Limassol off the summit of the Cypriot top division, with the club now third on goal differential, tied for points with Omonia and league giants APOEL.
AdvertisementAEL LIMASSOLA debut to forget
Ochoa held firm for just 21 minutes in his first start for the club, his seventh in Europe, before Senou Coulibaly opened the scoring with an unstoppable strike. Early on, the veteran showed poise and barked instructions to organize his back line, but repeated defensive lapses left him exposed and chasing the game.
The pressure only mounted after the break. Willy Semedo doubled Omonia’s advantage in the 50th minute, and the floodgates opened late with goals from Evangelos Andreou in the 75th minute, Ioannis Kousoulos in the 78th minute, and Angelos Neofytou in the 83rd minute. Ochoa made several saves to keep the score from growing even worse, but the lopsided result underscored a rocky beginning to his Cypriot adventure.
AFPOchoa chasing World Cup history
Ochoa's objective is clear; he is aiming for a record sixth World Cup. He joined AEL Limassol in an effort to earn consistent minutes and regain rhythm as he hopes to convince Mexico coach Javier Aguirre that he belongs on Mexico's roster in next summer's tournament.
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Getty Images SportOctober friendlies ahead
Mexico will face Colombia on Oct. 11 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, as part of the upcoming FIFA window. Four days later, on Oct. 15, El Tri will take on Ecuador at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara.
As part of the summer rebuild at Manchester United, Ruben Amorim has splashed the cash, with all three of his major additions to date being made in the final third of the pitch.
Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have all made the move to Old Trafford – setting the hierarchy back a sum in the region of £200m in the process.
However, such moves were desperately needed, especially after the Red Devils only managed to average 1.15 goals per game in the Premier League last campaign.
Such movement has formed a new deadly trio for Amorim, but he must now turn his attention to other areas of the squad, with the September 1st deadline rapidly approaching.
The midfield department is desperately crying out for another reinforcement, which could see the hierarchy land a big-money partner for Bruno Fernandes for 2025/26 and beyond.
The latest on Man Utd’s hunt for a new midfielder
Over the last few weeks, United’s hunt for a new midfielder has been dominated by a potential deal to sign Brighton and Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba.
Despite deliberations between the player’s representatives and Amorim’s side, it appears as though the Cameroonian will stay at the AMEX this window – with his £100m asking price deemed too expensive.
However, it appears as though the Red Devils hierarchy have moved onto another Premier League talent in the form of Crystal Palace youngster Adam Wharton.
According to Spanish outlet AS, Amorim’s side are currently leading the race for the 21-year-old’s signature, with Real Madrid also in the race for the Englishman’s signature.
The report also states it’s unclear whether the Eagles will be willing to let him depart after Eberechi Eze’s deal to join Arsenal, only entertaining offers in the region of €80m (£69m).
Why United’s target would be perfect for Cunha & Mbeumo
There’s an understandable amount of excitement building at United, with their business in the transfer market certainly playing a huge part over recent weeks.
Moves for Cunha and Mbeumo have added needed Premier League experience, with the hope the pair can replicate their impressive goalscoring form from the 2024/25 campaign.
The duo netted 35 times between them in England’s top-flight last season, which led to the Red Devils hierarchy forking out a combined £133.5m for the pair.
Both are likely to operate behind Sesko at Old Trafford, needing ammunition from players around them to provide the chances to impress within the final third.
Bruno has dropped into a deeper role in recent weeks, but could also be joined in such a position by Wharton before the end of the summer window.
The youngster would likely provide the ball-winning option needed at the heart of the side, but he could also offer a threat in forward areas – should he replicate his form at Selhurst Park.
Wharton, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by HLTCO, managed to complete 7.3 progressive passes and 5.3 passes into the final third per 90 last time around, having the ability to provide the aforementioned duo with numerous chances in front of goal.
Adam Wharton’s stats for Palace in the PL (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)
Tally
Games played
20
Goals & assists
2
Pass accuracy
76%
Progressive passes
7.3
Key passes
1.8
Passes into final third
5.3
Tackles won
2.3
Interceptions made
1.4
Clearances made
1.8
Recoveries made
6.9
Stats via FBref
He also registered 1.8 key passes per 90 – at an accuracy rate of 76% – further highlighting the talent he possesses when having the ball at his feet.
However, out of possession, the youngster has also impressed, winning 2.3 tackles per 90 and making 1.4 interceptions – subsequently having the tools to offer the ball-winning player Amorim has craved at the heart of his side.
It would undoubtedly be yet another expensive addition for the Red Devils this summer, but it’s one that would massively solve the issues currently apparent at the Theatre of Dreams.
If he can sit deep and regain possession, whilst also having the tools to provide others with chances in dangerous areas – it would be an excellent piece of business, not to mention an investment that could be worth millions more in the years ahead, given his tender age.
He's like Baleba: "Extraordinary" £35m star now wants to sign for Man Utd
Manchester United appear to have moved on from Carlos Baleba with a move for another star.
Australia, meanwhile, will now face Group 2 table-toppers South Africa in the semi-final on January 31, while India are set to face England.
ESPNcricinfo staff29-Jan-2025Nigeria sign off from the Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup a mere one point behind a team that made it to the semi-finals from their group after a thrilling victory over Ireland in Bangi, Malaysia. They wrapped up their second win of the Super Six stage, level with that of England above them in second place who went through to the final four of the tournament.Lillian Udeh, the 18-year-old fast bowler, was the star of the show as her 3 for 11 from four overs helped Nigeria defend a total of 94 for 7 and secure victory with six runs and eight balls to spare.Having initially been behind in the game – Udeh was part of a poor top-order performance where four of five batters fell for single-digits – Nigeria turned things around with the ball and not a moment too soon either. Ireland were 40 for 2 in the eighth over, looking quite comfortable in the chase when Udeh triggered the collapse that defined the match. Four wickets for 14 runs later, they were barely holding on. Annointed Akhigbe, the 17-year-old seamer, also played an important part, striking twice in the 12th over where she got rid of Ireland’s top-scorer Rebecca Lowe for 21 off 32. Another 4 for 14 collapse resulted in the team being bowled out for 88, and exiting the competition with just one win.Nigeria built their eventually defendable total with opener Christabel Chukwuonye scoring 25 off 42 balls with three fours. The other end was leaking wickets though, and they required a lower-order intervention to last the 20 overs. Omosigho Eguakun (17 off 23), Peculiar Agboya (17 not out off 20) and captain Lucky Piety (12 off 11) added crucial runs from No. 6, 7 and 8 helping the team recover from 21 for 4 to finish on 94 for 7.The victorious Sri Lankan team indulges in a group selfie•Getty Images Sri Lanka hold on for consolation win Sri Lanka successfully defended a paltry total of 99 against Australia in Bangi, to register their second win of the Super Six phase. Sri Lanka, opting to bat, made a sedate start as their openers Sanjana Kavindi (19 off 35) and Sumudu Nisansala (18 off 15) took their time to get going. Australia, having finished second on the Group 1 table behind India, will now face Group 2 table-toppers South Africa in the semi-final on January 31, while India are set to face England.At 77 for 2 in the 14th over, Sri Lanka might have been looking for a late flourish, but Lily Bassingthwaighte, Hasrat Gill and Tegan Williamson all struck at regular intervals to initiate a collapse, as Sri Lanka lost their next six wickets for just 22 runs.Australia lost three early wickets in the chase, but a handy 27 from Caoimhe Bray had the team well-placed at 64 for 3, and within sight of victory. However, Bray was dismissed in the 15th over courtesy Player of the Match Limansa Thilakarathna, offering Sri Lanka a way back into the game. Chamodi Praboda, Pramudi Methsara and Aseni Thalagune picked up two wickets apiece, as Australia completely lost their momentum. They lost their next four wickets for only 23 runs, finishing their innings at 87 for 8.
Newcastle United have agreed a deal to bring a former Liverpool player to St James’ Park alongside their move for ex-PSG defender Malick Thiaw.
Howe bemoans PSR restrictions as PIF ramp up business
It has been a hugely disappointing summer for the Magpies, who have missed out on key targets such as Bryan Mbeumo and James Trafford, not to mention having the Alexander Isak saga hovering over them like a bad smell.
PSR is restricting the amount that Newcastle can spend in the current transfer window, and speaking after his side’s 2-0 defeat at home to Atletico Madrid on Saturday, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe admitted that it is a frustrating period at the club.
Business is picking up however, with Keith Downie reporting on Monday that AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw is on Tyneside to complete a medical and sign for the Magpies.
PIF have agreed a roughly £35m deal for the Germany international, who broke through at European Champions PSG before moving to the Italian capital, but he’s not the only new face at Darsley Park this week as the board ramp up their summer plans.
Newcastle set to sign former Liverpool player
Fabrizio Romano reported this weekend that former Liverpool teenager Isaac Moran, who is a free agent after leaving the Reds in June, is set to sign a Newcastle contract.
The move has now been confirmed by the Magpies with the youngster on Tyneside already, and while this isn’t the shiny, big-money signing fans may have been hoping for, Academy Director Steve Harper is delighted: “Isaac joins us with a strong pedigree and a maturity beyond his years.
“The leadership qualities he has displayed to date speak volumes about his character, and we’re excited to help him continue developing both as a player and a person.“
Romano claims the 16-year-old could be a future starter for Newcastle, and at a time where PSR is restricting business, growing top homegrown talents is an important strategy.
Their new Demba Ba: £80m striker now keen on signing for Newcastle
Newcastle United need more standout signings ahead of the Premier League kicking back off.
1
By
Kelan Sarson
Aug 11, 2025
Now, it’s a case of the Magpies kicking on and doing some more pressing business between now and the end of the summer window, whether that’s persuading Isak to stay put, or bringing in a couple of top-quality replacements to lead the line moving forward.
After so much good work in recent years, it would be disheartening to see it all go to waste and Howe’s side take a step backwards in 2025/26, so the club must add to their midfield and forward ranks in the coming weeks.
Bangladesh missed direct qualification for the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup after their eight-wicket defeat against West Indies in Basseterre on Friday. They finished on 21 points in the Women’s Championship table, level with New Zealand who had more wins – nine opposed to Bangladesh’s eight – and secured the sixth and final direct spot.New Zealand joined Australia, India, England, South Africa and Sri Lanka in getting automatic places in the World Cup, scheduled to be held in India later this year. Bangladesh, meanwhile, will have West Indies, Pakistan and Ireland for company in the World Cup qualifiers. Scotland and Thailand will also join the competition, with two teams out of these six qualifying for the main event.The third ODI between Bangladesh and West Indies, however, ended up being a meek affair. Batting first, the visitors were bowled out for 118 runs in 43.5 overs. Sharmin Akhter top-scored with 37. Bangladesh were looking good at 94 for 3, before collapsing badly. They lost their last seven wickets for just 24 runs in 13 overs.Karishma Ramharack took a four-wicket haul for the second successive game, this time conceding just 12 runs in her 6.5 overs. Zaida James took two wickets.West Indies reached their target in 27.3 overs, with Qiana Joseph making 39 and Deandra Dottin remaining unbeaten on 33. Marufa Akter and Nahida Akter took a wicket each.Bangladesh’s tour of West Indies continues in Basseterre where they will play three T20Is on January 27, 29 and 31.
After five straight defeats, Stars posted five straight wins to book a knockout final against Sydney Thunder
Tristan Lavalette19-Jan-2025
Glenn Maxwell came out attacking•Getty Images
Glenn Maxwell may not be touring Sri Lanka, but in a silver lining he’ll be part of the BBL finals after Melbourne Stars’ remarkable regular season turnaround was complete with a comprehensive victory over Hobart Hurricanes at the MCG.Stars needed a win to leapfrog Perth Scorchers into fourth place and qualify for the finals. They took care of business against a Hurricanes team with little to play for.Maxwell continued his purple patch with 76 not out off 32 balls before quick Mark Steketee claimed three early wickets as Stars reached the finals for the first time since BBL 09.Related
Handscomb comes to Stars' rescue for BBL finals
Maxwell on Test snub: Would have made same call
After a woeful start to the season with five straight defeats, Stars have gained significant momentum with five straight wins to book a knockout final against Sydney Thunder at the Showgrounds.The match was essentially a tune-up for Hurricanes, who had already locked up top spot and a home final in the Qualifier against Sydney Sixers.Maxwell ignites again after Webster’s half-centuryAll eyes were on Maxwell. But the big crowd at the MCG had to wait for their hero as openers Sam Harper and Thomas Rogers laid a solid platform.Stars have badly struggled at the top of the order with Harper particularly out of form. But they peeled off 19 runs in the first two overs in the best opening stand of the season for Stars.Harper whacked four early boundaries, but Stars couldn’t get through the powerplay unblemished with Rogers succumbing to a clever change of pace from quick Nathan Ellis.Having ended a run of five straight single digit scores, Harper could not go on with it after he was trapped lbw by the spin of Nikhil Chaudhary.With Beau Webster struggling with his timing, Marcus Stoinis tried to regain Stars’ momentum with numerous powerful blows to race to 32 off 19 balls. But like countless times this season, Stoinis could not launch off the platform and his dismissal brought Maxwell to the crease.Maxwell, fresh off his extraordinary 90 against Renegades, started fast and smashed Chaudhary down the ground for six on his fourth delivery. His presence had a profound effect on Webster, who shook from his slumber to put the foot down.Webster hogged the strike, but didn’t cop the wrath of Maxwell’s legion of fans as he powered to his half-century with a six down the ground.Maxwell took over after Webster’s dismissal and had the crowd in the palm of his hands when he got under a slower short delivery from left-arm quick Marcus Bean and with a flick of the wrists whacked it over fine leg.He was unstoppable at the death, clubbing a six off quick Cameron Gannon to reach his half-century and then smashing two more into the crowd as Stars powered past 200.It brought some cheer for Maxwell, whose Test career looks over after he missed out on Australia’s squad to Sri Lanka.Mark Steketee took three wickets in his first two overs•Getty Images
Hurricanes experiment with their attackWith little to play for, Hurricanes decided to play it safe. Spearhead Riley Meredith did not play while Nathan Ellis only bowled one over with Ben McDermott on the broadcast saying he was managing a sore groin.Ellis used the match to experiment and seven bowlers were used. Tim David’s handy offspin opened the bowling, while Chris Jordan bowled in the backend in his return from a back injury but struggled amid Maxwell’s onslaught.With injured quick Billy Stanlake to miss the finals, his position is up for grabs and seemingly a race between Bean and Gannon, freshly signed as Stanlake’s replacement.Bean, plucked out of Tasmanian club cricket, impressed in his professional debut against Brisbane Heat at the Gabba. Sporting a change of hair colour, from gold to silver, Bean enjoyed the wicket of Stoinis with an awkward delivery that climbed and hurried the batter.But he suffered in the backend and so too did Gannon, who was playing in the BBL for the first time in three years. He’s been in outstanding Sheffield Shield form, but Gannon struggled with his lengths to finish with 0 for 48 off 4 overs. Bean took 1 for 45 off his 4.Hurricanes were also extremely sloppy in the field to cap a forgettable performance.Steketee continues strong formVeteran quick Steketee has been a key part of Stars’ revival with 15 wickets in five matches. He’s been impactful with the new ball and so was the case again. In the second over he dismissed opener Caleb Jewell after Stoinis took a blinder with a full-stretch dive running backwards at mid on.Steketee struck again two balls alter when Charlie Wakim drove straight to backward point. He trapped McDermott lbw in his next over before claiming Ellis at the end to finish with 4 for 24 off 3.3 overs.Owen unleashes early but in vainMitchell Owen has been the breakout player this season with his move up the order being a considerable success for Hurricanes. Their hopes in the chase largely rested on Owen getting off to a flier and he tried his best by bludgeoning left-arm quick Joel Paris for a couple of big sixes in the opening over.He also took a liking to veteran quick Peter Siddle with several mighty blows, unleashing his considerable power, to motor to 34 off 10 balls. But he slowed down slightly before holing out on 38 as Hurricanes’ slim chances effectively ended.Ellis top-scored with a rapid 40 at the end until he holed out to – quite fittingly – Maxwell, who pumped his fist to the jubilant fans knowing Stars’ season will continue.
Manchester United will want to address their goalkeeping situation before the window is closed at Old Trafford and could now be set to focus all their efforts on a talented stopper from the continent, according to a report.
Bayindir's error vs Arsenal leaves Man Utd searching for answers
Truthfully, there wasn’t much to separate Manchester United and Arsenal in their Premier League opening clash, apart from the level of goalkeeping performances on display.
Unfortunately for the Red Devils’, Arsenal’s prevalence at set-pieces earned the points for the visitors, who received a helping hand from Altay Bayindir’s failure to steer away Declan Rice’s delivery before Riccardo Calafiori pounced from close range.
Speaking on the BBC’s Football Daily podcast, David James believes the Turkish international shouldn’t have got involved with William Saliba in the lead-up to the only goal of the encounter.
He explained: “There were two issues with the goal. The first was Bayindir getting involved with William Saliba before the corner-kick was taken. Saliba ran across the front and I actually think it was a foul on Mason Mount because Saliba nearly dragged his shirt off to get in front of Bayindir.
“But by getting involved with Saliba, everyone has now got arms on each other and Bayindir is in no position to do anything decent from where he is.”
On the same day, reports emerged that Man Utd are plotting a surprise reunion with David De Gea. Meanwhile, Gianluigi Donnarumma has been considered by the Red Devils amid speculation surrounding the future of Andre Onana.
Nevertheless, there could now be another solution to their woes between the sticks as INEOS prepare to focus their attention on finalising a deal for a rising star.
Manchester United look to finalise Senne Lammens move
According to TEAMtalk, Manchester United chiefs are convinced they’ll win the race to sign Royal Antwerp’s Senne Lammens despite interest from Inter Milan in securing his signature.
The outlet claim he only has eyes for a move to Old Trafford and they will now look to put a ‘decisive plan’ in action to land the goalkeeper. Albeit, Onana’s failure to secure a move elsewhere has impacted their overall pursuit of a new number one.
His best display for Man Utd: £60m star is as undroppable as Mbeumo & Cunha
Manchester United suffered defeat in their first game of the new season.
ByJack Salveson Holmes Aug 17, 2025
Overall, the Belgian star has kept 12 clean sheets in 64 appearances for Royal Antwerp, leading to a call-up to his senior national team back in March for their UEFA Nations League playoff matches against Ukraine.
Manchester United have kept in touch with his entourage all summer and have him on a shortlist alongside Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez. Now, it appears Lammens is top priority as the Red Devils consider a late move to bolster their goalkeeping department.
Labelled “elite” by Ben Mattinson, Fotmob show the 23-year-old has retained a 73.3% save percentage this season, which may pique the interest of supporters as they cross their fingers for a new number one at Old Trafford.
Tottenham Hotspur are once again at the heart of transfer market drama.
Having endured a turbulent summer in which they controversially parted ways with Ange Postecoglou and installed Brentford’s Thomas Frank in the dugout, Spurs have wasted little time making bold moves in their squad rebuild.
The north London club have begun the new Premier League season strongly under their new manager, winning 3-0 at home to Burnley and stunning Manchester City 2-0 at the Etihad.
Such results have helped to steady nerves after a 2024/25 league campaign that saw Spurs finish a lowly 17th, even if their Europa League triumph over Manchester United provided a route back into the Champions League.
The summer window has been characterised by major departures and equally significant arrivals.
Fan favourite Son Heung-min, a figure synonymous with Spurs over the past decade, departed for LAFC, while James Maddison suffered a devastating ACL injury in pre-season against Newcastle, ruling him out for the entire campaign.
These developments left a creative void in the side.
Tottenham did move quickly to secure Mohamed Kudus from West Ham for £60m, but the sense prevails that further reinforcements are required, particularly after deals for both Morgan Gibbs-White and Eberechi Eze fell through in frustrating circumstances.
Spurs hunting for Eze alternative
Their attempts to land young talents with star potential have been well-documented.
Spurs had a bid of €70m rejected for Como’s Nico Paz, a player Real Madrid still retain a buy-back clause for, and saw Arsenal hijack their move for Eze.
An ambitious attempt to prise Savinho from Manchester City was also rebuffed, with City holding out for £70m.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
It now appears that their answer could come from France, where an exciting young player has been described by data analyst Ben Mattinson as “ridiculous” in terms of his potential.
According to Football Insider, Spurs are looking at sealing a move for Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche, with a bid worth £47.5m expected to be accepted. It's important to state that the Lilywhites are yet to bid, but they now know the price they'll have to go to in order to complete a deal.
The 23-year-old Frenchman, who operates primarily from the right wing but has shown the versatility to play across midfield and attack, has quickly emerged as a viable alternative to Savinho.
Why Akliouche could be Spurs’ solution
His lower price point compared to Savinho or Paz makes him an appealing option for Spurs, particularly given the club’s wider squad-building needs.
Akliouche broke into Monaco’s first team in 2021 and has been a consistent performer over the past two seasons.
Across his Ligue 1 career, he has contributed 13 goals and 14 assists, while last term alone he made 32 appearances, including ten in the Champions League.
AS Monaco's MaghnesAkliouche
His rise has not gone unnoticed at international level either, earning six caps for France and scoring once.
Akliouche represents a balanced investment: a player young enough to grow with the team but experienced enough in top-flight European competition to make an immediate impact.
His potential signing has been framed as Tottenham’s alternative to Paz, another highly-touted youngster tipped for stardom.
Tottenham’s decision to turn to Akliouche reflects both necessity and opportunity.
With Maddison sidelined for the entire season, the club cannot afford to enter a Champions League campaign short of creativity.
The collapse of their moves for Paz, Eze and Gibbs-White have heightened the urgency, while the ongoing pressure from fans has only increased the demand for statement signings.
Comparisons between Akliouche and Nico Paz are inevitable, given the parallel interest Spurs have shown in both players.
Matches Played
35
32
Starts
30
27
Goal
6
5
Assists
8
10
Progressive Carries
77
127
Progressive Passes
163
273
Statistically, they occupy similar creative roles, though their profiles contain subtle differences that make Akliouche potentially a stronger fit under Frank.
Akliouche stands out for his blend of creative passing and ball progression. According to FBref, he ranks in the 86th percentile compared to positionally similar players in Europe’s top five leagues for assists per 90 (0.30), showing his ability to provide for teammates consistently.
His 71st percentile ranking for shot-creating actions per 90 (4.25) underlines his direct involvement in chance creation, while his 89th percentile for progressive passes (6.15 per 90) and 79th percentile for progressive carries (4.58 per 90) highlight an ability to break lines with both his passing and his dribbling.
His defensive contributions should not be overlooked either, ranking in the 92nd percentile for interceptions per 90 (0.74), making him more well-rounded than many of his attacking midfield contemporaries.
Paz, by contrast, brings a more direct attacking profile. At 20, the Argentine is already showing signs of stardom, ranking in the 97th percentile for total shots per 90 (3.68) and 86th percentile for shot-creating actions (4.95).
His dribbling ability is reflected in his 85th percentile for successful take-ons (2.34 per 90), making him a more goal-oriented option than Akliouche.
However, Tottenham’s failed pursuit of Paz has left them looking for a player who combines creativity with maturity, someone able to step into the Champions League spotlight immediately.
That balance is why Akliouche’s candidacy is so compelling. Unlike Savinho, whose £70m valuation was deemed excessive, Akliouche’s £47.5m fee represents relative value in today’s market.
More importantly, his statistical profile suggests he could provide much-needed creativity following Maddison’s injury, while also offering tactical flexibility across midfield and attack.
He may not yet carry the global recognition of Paz or Savinho, but his combination of technical quality, versatility, and productivity makes him a signing that could reshape Spurs’ midfield dynamic.
If the deal is finalised, Tottenham would not only have secured their replacement for Maddison in the short term, but also potentially acquired a cornerstone for the club’s next era under Frank.
Richarlison will love him: Spurs confident of signing £60m star this week
Richarlison could grow in confidence if Spurs sign a £60m winger.