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Big picture: The year India embraced T20

In a fickle, unpredictable format, India have had arguably the greatest year for a team, winning 23 of their 25 T20Is in 2024. It was also the year where they truly embraced the format, shedding their safety-first approach with the bat to play attacking, modern-day T20 cricket.The results could not have been better. They whitewashed Afghanistan and Bangladesh at home and did the same to Sri Lanka away. In between, their second-string side won 4-1 in Zimbabwe. But all that pales in comparison to their unbeaten run to lift the T20 World Cup in June.Friday’s T20I in Johannesburg will be their last outing in the format this year. Having taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-match series, they will be keen to hit yet another positive note.Related

• Groin injury rules Ngidi out of action till January

• Klaasen calls for more cricket for South Africa across formats

• Tilak asks Suryakumar for No. 3 spot and owns it with dazzling century

• Tilak ton, Arshdeep three-for put India 2-1 up

Until they met India in the final in Barbados, South Africa were also unbeaten in the T20 World Cup. But on either side of the tournament, their performances have been underwhelming. One can argue that they were almost always missing one or more of their first-choice players but the same can be said of their opponents as well.Even if they win on Friday, South Africa’s winless streak in bilateral T20I series will stand at eight. Still, 2-2 is much better than 3-1.

Form guide

South Africa LWLLW (last five T20Is, most recent first)
India WLWWW

In the spotlight: Marco Jansen and Abhishek Sharma

Making his comeback from a shoulder issue, Marco Jansen has been South Africa’s player of the series. He may have picked up only three wickets but his economy of 6.41 is the best for any bowler in the series. That India posted 200-plus totals twice in three games makes Jansen’s performance even more impressive. He is also the leading run-getter for South Africa with 73 runs at a strike rate of 208.57. In Centurion, he almost pulled off an impossible-looking chase with his 16-ball half-century, the second-fastest for South Africa in the format.Having not crossed 20 in his last seven T20I innings, Abhishek Sharma was under pressure coming into the third T20I. At times, he had looked out of his depth, especially against the hard lengths, and it seemed he had only one gear. But in Centurion, his shot selection was much better as he scored a 25-ball 50 to set the platform for a big total. With Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill ahead of him in the pecking order, he will be aware that he cannot relax after just one good innings.

Team news: Peter comes back?

South Africa could consider bringing back local legspinner Nqabayomzi Peter for Gerald Coetzee.South Africa (probable): 1 Ryan Rickelton, 2 Reeza Hendricks, 3 Aiden Markram (capt), 4 Tristan Stubbs, 5 Heinrich Klaasen (wk), 6 David Miller, 7 Marco Jansen, 8 Gerald Coetzee/Nqabayomzi Peter, 9 Andile Simelane, 10 Keshav Maharaj, 11 Lutho SipamlaWith Ramandeep Singh showing his value with the bat in Centurion, India will be hesitant to make any changes.India (probable): 1 Sanju Samson (wk), 2 Abhishek Sharma, 3 Tilak Varma, 4 Suryakumar Yadav (capt), 5 Hardik Pandya, 6 Rinku Singh, 7 Ramandeep Singh, 8 Axar Patel, 9 Arshdeep Singh, 10 Ravi Bishnoi, 11 Varun ChakravarthyMarco Jansen has been South Africa’s best batter this series•AFP/Getty Images

Pitch and conditions: Rain may delay start

Johannesburg is traditionally a high-scoring venue. The last time it hosted a T20I, in December 2023, India rode on Suryakumar Yadav’s hundred to post 201 for 7. However, South Africa were bowled out for a mere 95 in response, with Kuldeep Yadav taking five wickets. There is a forecast for showers around 4pm local time, half an hour before the toss. But it is expected to be brief and we should get a full game.

Stats and trivia: Arshdeep closes in on Chahal

• In 2024, India have breached the 200 mark eight times – the most by any team in a single year.
• Arshdeep Singh needs five more wickets to surpass Yuzvendra Chahal as India’s highest wicket-taker in T20Is.
• This year, Aiden Markram has 241 runs in 17 T20Is at an average of 16.06 and a strike rate of 120.50. The last time he scored a half-century in the format was 28 innings ago.
• Tilak Varma’s 107 not out in Centurion was the 21st T20I hundred by an India batter. New Zealand (12) and Australia (11) are the only other teams to have ten or more T20I tons.

Liverpool’s ambitions of landing a move for Alexander Isak have dragged on throughout the summer transfer window, with a deal to land the forward not yet on the horizon.

The Reds tabled their opening offer last week for the Newcastle United striker, but their £120m offer for the Swedish international was quickly rejected by Eddie Howe’s side.

It’s thought that a fee in the region of £150m could be enough for the Black and White army to part ways with their talisman, who found the net on 23 occasions in the Premier League last season.

With less than a month remaining in the transfer window, Arne Slot’s side don’t have long to complete their business ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

As a result, they may be forced to turn their attention to other targets in the coming days to provide the boss with the depth and quality needed to regain their league crown.

The latest on Liverpool’s hunt for new attackers this summer

There’s no denying that Isak remains Liverpool’s number one target for such an area of the pitch, but other options are constantly being looked at should they fail to agree a deal for his signature.

Luis Diaz has already departed Anfield, with the likes of Darwin Núñez and Federico Chiesa also touted with moves to Serie A to raise added funds for their pursuit.

The money raised from such departures could go towards a move to land Real Madrid star Rodrygo, with the Brazilian once again in their sights, according to Football Insider.

The report claims that the Reds’ hierarchy have identified the 24-year-old as an alternative to Isak, potentially going back in for a move to land the forward in the near future.

However, the article also states he could command another huge fee from Slot’s side this summer, with the LaLiga giants currently demanding over £80m to offload him in the next few weeks.

Why Liverpool’s latest target would be their answer to Mbappé

Kylian Mbappé is a forward who has constantly tormented backlines across Europe in recent years, cementing himself as one of the best attackers in world football.

The 26-year-old joined Real Madrid last summer on a free transfer from PSG, after enjoying a seven-year spell in Paris, which saw him net 235 goals in his 264 appearances.

It all could’ve been so different for the Frenchman, with Liverpool previously interested in his signature before he completed a free transfer to join Real Madrid last summer.

His move to the Santiago Bernabéu has seen him continue his magnificent goalscoring record, finding the net 44 times in his 59 appearances during 2024/25, ending his first season in Spain as the division’s top scorer.

There’s no denying Mbappé is one of Europe’s leading talismen, being a player many sides around the world wish they had at their disposal – but unfortunately, that honour goes to Xavi Alonso’s side.

Whilst a move for the Frenchman to Anfield this window is off the cards, they could sign their own version of him in the form of Rodrygo, with the Brazilian labelled as a similar player by FBref.

When comparing their respective stats from last season, the 24-year-old managed to outperform the world beater in numerous key areas, potentially being a superb addition to Slot’s star-studded side.

Rodrygo, who’s been labelled “world-class” by analyst Ben Mattinson, registered more progressive passes and carries per 90, showcasing the threat he possesses with the ball at his feet.

He also managed to complete more key passes and more passes into the final third per 90, able to provide new signings Hugo Ekitiké and Florian Wirtz with added opportunities, should he also move to Merseyside.

How Rodrygo & Mbappé compare in LaLiga (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Rodrygo

Mbappé

Games played

30

34

Goals & assists

11

34

Progressive carries

5.3

4.6

Goals per shot on target

0.3

0.3

Pass accuracy

86%

82%

Key passes made

2.5

1.3

Passes into final third

3.1

2.3

Carries into final third

4.1

2.9

Crosses completed

3.8

1.1

Progressive passes

5.1

4.3

Stats via FBref

His dominance over his teammate is further reflected in his higher pass completion rate, whilst completing more crosses per 90, having a superb creative nouse within his arsenal.

Isak will rightfully be the main target for Liverpool over the next few weeks, but it still remains to be seen if a deal can be completed before September 1st.

However, the fanbase shouldn’t worry, with the Brazilian proving he’s more than capable of being a top-quality addition who could provide Slot with an Mbappé-like talent at Anfield.

Related Van Dijk's new Matip: Liverpool scouting "one of the most exciting” CBs

Liverpool still need to sign a centre-back this summer.

Posts ByAngus Sinclair Aug 2, 2025

Liverpool are not resting on their laurels after they won the Premier League title in Arne Slot’s first season in England, having joined from Feyenoord last summer.

The Reds boss has already added Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen to bolster his squad, whilst Milos Kerkez is set to be confirmed as their latest signing from Bournemouth.

These moves show that the Reds want to build on their success to push on and compete for even more trophies in Slot’s second season at Anfield.

Of course, signing new stars in several positions also means that some players may have to be moved on to make space in the squad, as Jarell Quansah is reportedly set to leave the club.

Fabrizio Romano claims that Bayer Leverkusen have agreed a deal that could be worth up to £35m to sign the England U21 international this summer.

Why selling Jarell Quansah makes sense for Liverpool

Selling a homegrown, 22-year-old, England U21 international may not make much sense at face value, given that he is valuable for the homegrown quota and has plenty of room left to improve.

However, the Reds are in win-now mode after their Premier League success and with the likes of Alisson, Mo Salah, and Virgil van Dijk in the latter stages of their respective careers.

Unfortunately, Quansah has not proven that he has the quality to be a key player when called upon in the Premier League for Liverpool, given his performances for the team in the 2024/25 campaign.

The English youngster was handed a start against Ipswich Town on the opening day of the top-flight season, but was hauled off for Ibrahima Konate at half-time.

After the match, Slot explained that it was because he lost too many duels, telling TNT Sports: “First thing I said is we don’t have to speak about tactics if we lose so many duels and that was what we did. Not that Jarell [Quansah] lost every duel – many of us lost too many duels. But I think we needed Ibou Konate to win these long balls in the air from their No.9.”

Appearances

13

Starts

4

Error led to shot

1

Error led to goal

0

Penalties committed

1

Ground duel success rate

47%

Aerial duel success rate

41%

As you can see in the table above, losing duels was a theme for Quansah throughout the Premier League campaign, as he lost the majority of his battles on the ground and in the air.

The 22-year-old defender, who has lost 53% of his ground duels in the U21 Euros for England this summer, has not shown enough strength as a centre-back to compete week-in-week-out for Liverpool, which is why cashing in on him makes sense at this moment in time.

Premier League club eyeing up Liverpool midfielder

Quansah may not be the only England U21 international to move on from Anfield before the end of the summer transfer window, though, as Harvey Elliott is now being eyed up by a Premier League.

Transfer Focus

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

According to Football Insider, Brighton & Hove Albion are interested in a move to sign the former Fulham prodigy from Liverpool to bolster their midfield options.

The report claims that the Seagulls are confident that they can agree a deal with the Reds to bring the left-footed star over to the AMEX this summer, and that they are one of the frontrunners to land his signature.

It adds that Brighton are capable of matching Liverpool’s £40m valuation of the English playmaker, and it now remains to be seen when they will make an official swoop for his services.

Why Harvey Elliott would be a bigger loss than Jarell Quansah

Losing Elliott would be a bigger blow than losing Quansah this summer because he is more suited to making an impact on the pitch in the here and now.

As aforementioned, the central defender has been disappointing when called upon at the back for the Reds, which is why it makes sense to move him on, but that has not been the case with the attacking midfielder.

When given opportunities to impress, the 22-year-old star has shown plenty of promise for the Reds, with five goals and three assists in 28 appearances in the 2024/25 campaign.

The England U21 international, who has scored two goals in four games at the Euros this summer, also produced four goals and 11 assists in all competitions for the Reds in Jurgen Klopp’s final season at Anfield.

Non-penalty goals

0.66

Top 1%

Assists

0.33

Top 14%

npxG + xAG

0.60

Top 15%

Shot-creating actions

4.48

Top 23%

Progressive passes

8.80

Top 2%

Passes made

64.76

Top 2%

As you can see in the table above, Elliott has been particularly impressive over the past 365 days when called upon by Slot, ranking highly among his positional peers in a host of attacking and possession-based metrics.

These statistics show that the young attacking midfielder offers a lot of value on the ball as a player who can score and create goals, whilst also progressing the play with his passes, which is why it would be a blow to lose him from the squad this summer.

Whilst he may not be a frontline option who is likely to start 50 games next season, his form in the last couple of years shows that he is a very good squad player who can be relied upon when needed, as a starter or off the bench.

This is why losing him to Brighton this summer would be a bigger blow than Quansah’s move to Leverkusen, as the centre-back has not proven himself to be as valuable to the team.

He'd be unplayable with Gordon: Liverpool submit bid to sign £64m forward

Liverpool are planning to sign a new striker this summer.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Jun 24, 2025

For most of this month, it felt like Arsenal were in real danger of falling behind their rivals in the transfer market.

Fortunately, the last week or so has finally seen the club spring into life somewhat, with both Kepa Arrizabalaga and Christian Norgaard looking set to join Martin Zubimendi ahead of next season.

However, while the club are starting to get bodies through the door, there is still a question mark over the lack of truly game-changing signings, like Liverpool’s capture of Florian Wirtz.

Yet, there might be no need for concern, as recent reports have once again linked the Gunners with an incredible attacker who could be their own version of the German international.

Arsenal target game-changing signings

While Arsenal’s focus appeared to be on useful squad players last week, the North Londoners have still been linked with a host of potentially game-changing superstars in recent weeks, such as Rodrygo and, more recently, Eberechi Eze.

Transfer Focus

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

The former could cost up to £85, but with two Champions League titles to his name and a tally of 25 goal involvements in 53 games this season, it would be hard to deny that’s a fair valuation for the Brazilian dynamo.

Likewise, while Eze’s £68m release clause is undeniably massive, he’d be more than worth it, as, on top of helping Crystal Palace win their first major honour ever this season, he racked up a haul of 25 goal involvements in just 43 appearances.

Yet, while both players would undoubtedly have a massive impact on the Gunners, there is another star linked with the club who’d surely be even more game-changing: Viktor Gyokeres.

Yes, according to a recent report from Caught Offside, the Sporting CP star has been one of Arsenal’s top targets this summer and remains a genuine option to lead the line for next season, with it revealing that the Gunners are maintaining talks and asking to be kept up to date on the Swede’s situation.

However, what’s interesting is that the report also claims it’s now ‘only a matter of time’ before the Swedish international leaves the Portuguese champions, despite the Lisbon side holding out for more money.

Regarding the money, the story reaffirms prior reports that Sporting will not budge on their €80m valuation of the free-scoring forward, which converts to around £68m. Considering the player’s wage demands, it may be a move that ends up totalling close to £111m.

It might not be a straightforward transfer to get over the line, but Arsenal should do all they can to sign Gyokeres in the coming weeks, as he could be as consequential for them as Wirtz looks like he will be for Liverpool.

Why Gyokeres could be Arsenal's Wirtz

Now, there is already one massive difference between Wirtz and Gyokeres, which is their respective positions.

However, the fact that the former is a midfielder and the latter a striker really has no bearing on this comparison.

The basis for the Swede becoming the Gunners’ version of the German is instead solely based on how much of a game-changer he could be for them.

For example, the former Bayer Leverkusen gem was unsurprisingly brilliant this season, racking up a tally of 16 goals and 15 assists in 45 appearances, totalling 3392 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.45 games, or every 109.41 minutes.

Unfortunately for the Gunners’ faithful, that level of output is undoubtedly going to have a massive impact on the Champions next season, but the good news is that the former Coventry City star could be just as impactful for Arteta’s side.

For example, in 52 appearances this season, totalling 4248 minutes, the Stockholm-born “monster,” as dubbed by journalist Alex Turk, scored 54 goals and provided 13 assists, which comes to a frankly absurd average of 1.28 goal involvements per game, or one every 63.40 minutes.

The 27-year-old was just as effective last season, scoring 43 goals and providing 15 assists in 50 appearances, totalling 4,169 minutes, which came out to an average of 1.16 goal involvements every game, or one every 71.87 minutes.

Appearances

50

52

Minutes

4169′

4248′

Goals

43

54

Assists

15

13

Goal Involvements per Match

1.16

1.28

Minutes per Goal Involvement

71.87′

63.40′

It is true that he’s currently playing outside of a top-five league, but if the Swedish machine can replicate even a third of his performances in North London, then his arrival could be what finally pushes Arteta’s side over the line in the Premier League or Champions League next year.

Ultimately, it’s Gyokeres’ incredible output and the fact his arrival would be such a signal of intent that means he could end up being Arsenal’s answer to Witz this summer.

Better move than Norgaard: Arsenal agree personal terms to sign £17m phenom

The exciting prospect could develop into something special at Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 30, 2025

With concerns increasing that Morgan Rogers could leave the club this summer, Aston Villa have reportedly stepped up their efforts to sign an instant replacement for their star midfielder.

Arsenal considering Morgan Rogers bid

Aston Villa find themselves in a vulnerable spot this summer. Their PSR concern is an open secret in the Premier League and their rivals know that they may need to sell at least one key man to comply with the financial rules by the end of June. And that could hand them an uphill battle to keep hold of Rogers if Arsenal come calling in the coming weeks.

There is no doubt that those in the Midlands would like to keep hold of such a talented player. After all, there’s very good reason why Rogers was nominated for the PFA Young Player of the Year and is a strong favourite to win the award. But they may have little choice in the matter if an offer in the region of £50m or above arrives for Rogers’ signature this month.

What has not helped ease Villa’s concerns about Rogers’ future are recent reports that Arsenal are seriously considering submitting an offer to sign the England international this summer after missing out on Nico Williams to Barcelona.

Aston Villa table bid to sign £24m star as release clause deadline emerges

They’re yet to get their summer business underway.

ByTom Cunningham Jun 18, 2025

It would undoubtedly rub salt in Aston Villa’s wounds if they not only lost one of their best players, but lost that player to a Premier League rival. Nonetheless, those in the Midlands are seemingly preparing for the worst and have already reportedly set their sights on signing a potential replacement for Rogers in the coming months.

Aston Villa step up efforts to sign Eze

In the event that Rogers leaves the club this summer, it looks as though the Villans will turn their focus towards South London. According to Football Transfers, Aston Villa are now stepping up their efforts to sign Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace and have made the midfielder their priority target.

Starts

31

37

Goals

8

8

Assists

8

10

Key Passes

58

51

It certainly makes sense that Aston Villa are looking towards Eze to potentially replace Rogers. The Crystal Palace star almost matched his England teammate all the way in output last season whilst making fewer Premier League appearances and took his total to 14 goals in all competitions.

Like Unai Emery, however, Oliver Glasner won’t want to lose his key man this summer. The Crystal Palace boss was full of praise for Eze last season, telling reporters back in September: “Who’s a better player than Eze? For me he’s absolutely top, if he was luckier this season he would have five or six goals.

“He’s always dangerous because he has the quality and ability at 1-1, he’s such an unbelievable finisher, in some situations he can improve, he’s a guy who can always score and he’s someone who everyone likes. This is why he’s on the pitch because he’s able to score goals.”

After a deal was completed to land Matheus Cunha last week, it appears as though Manchester United have shown no signs of slowing down in the transfer market.

Ruben Amorim has made a move to land Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, with the Cameroon international choosing Old Trafford as his next move if reports are to be believed.

The 25-year-old has notched 20 goals in the Premier League during 2024/25, finishing as just one of only five players to reach such a tally within the division.

He’s likely to be an expensive addition, costing a fee in the region of £60m over the coming months, which will already take their summer spending to over £120m.

Despite the potential fee, he would be a superb addition, potentially forming a deadly partnership with another target in their attempts to return to their former glory.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

The attacking department has been of huge interest over the last few weeks, with Amorim clearly wanting to bolster that area of his first-team squad.

Viktor Gyokeres, Victor Osimhen and Liam Delap have all been touted with a switch to Old Trafford, but appear to have moved on to different targets – with the latter moving closer to a move to Chelsea.

However, another name has entered the mix over recent days, with PSG attacker Gonçalo Ramos the latest name on the club’s shortlist, according to United In Focus.

The report claims that the Ligue 1 outfit are willing to part ways with the Portuguese international this summer, with the Red Devils already in talks with his representatives over a move to Old Trafford.

It also states that the 23-year-old is of interest to multiple Saudi Arabian outfits, with the newly crowned Champions of Europe demanding £50m to part ways with him this summer.

Why United’s £50m target could be the next Cavani & the perfect Mbeumo partner

Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani joined United back in the summer of 2020, arriving on a free transfer after his contract with PSG expired a couple of months prior.

He only plied his trade at Old Trafford for two years, but still managed to star within the final third for the Red Devils despite entering the back end of his professional career.

The forward found the net 19 times in his 59 appearances, with 17 of his efforts coming in his first season at the club – helping the side finish second in the Premier League.

However, Cavani would depart at the end of his contract in the summer of 2022, with the club missing such a talisman over the past couple of years – as seen by their efforts for a new one during the off-season.

A move for Ramos would replicate such a deal, landing a talent from the French giants who could fill the void at the top end and lead them back towards a spot in the top four.

He could also partner Mbeumo in the final third, with both of their respective figures aiding Amorim’s ambitions of taking the club back to their former glory.

Ramos, who’s been labelled “outrageous” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has registered 18 goals across all competitions this season, with him and the Brentford star able to add needed goals to the side.

Games played

22

Goals & assists

13

Pass accuracy

81%

Shots on target per 90

2.7

Aerials won

57%

Touches in opposition box

8.5

Possession won in final third

0.7

The Portugal international has registered 2.7 shots on target per 90, benefiting from the stats produced by Mbeumo, who’s posting a total of 1.8 chances created per 90 this campaign.

Their respective talents don’t stop there, with the PSG star having won 57% of his aerial battles, able to get on the end of the 25-year-old’s delivery, after he produced a tally of 1.3 successful crosses per game.

The prospect of the pair combining within the final third at Old Trafford is certainly an exciting one, handing Amorim with the attacking ammunition he’s craved since taking the role.

Ramos won’t be a cheap addition this summer, but his goal tally this year is evidence that he can produce the goods when needed, potentially following in Cavani’s footsteps at the Theatre of Dreams.

Better signing than Cunha: Man Utd eye move for PSG Ballon d'Or contender

Manchester United could land a bigger signing than Matheus Cunha by bringing in this PSG star.

ByDan Emery Jun 3, 2025

Former Glasgow Rangers chairman Dave King has confirmed that a takeover of the club is expected to be finalised in the middle of June, ahead of the summer transfer window.

The US health insurance tycoon Andrew Cavenagh and the 49ers Enterprises are poised to take control of the Light Blues in just over a month, which will mark the start of a new era at Ibrox.

Results on the pitch in recent seasons suggest that a new direction and new leadership have been a long time coming, as Celtic have won the Scottish Premiership title in each of the last four seasons.

The Light Blues, who held their rivals to a 1-1 draw last time out, are going to end the 2024/25 campaign without a single trophy to show for their efforts, and with Barry Ferguson in interim charge after Philippe Clement was dismissed earlier this year.

Rangers will be on the lookout for a new manager to lead the club into a new era under the 49ers, and there are already plenty of names being floated around.

One popular suggestion has already been ruled out as a contender, though, as it has been revealed that Steven Gerrard will not be the new Rangers manager.

Why Steven Gerrard will not be the next Rangers manager

The English head coach is currently a free agent, having left Al-Ettifaq earlier this year, and this means that the Gers would not have to pay any compensation to bring him back to Ibrox.

Despite being an attractive target, having also won a Premiership title for the Light Blues during his previous spell as the manager in Glasgow, the 49ers will not be pursuing a deal for the English boss.

TEAMtalk recently revealed that the new owners want to appoint a manager who does not have any links to the club, as they want a fresh face to build a new philosophy and way of playing to lead the team forward.

The report claimed that the 49ers are planning to build the club gradually, and their first move is going to be to appoint a manager who can lead a long-term project at Ibrox.

TEAMtalk’s article does not explain outright why they do not want anyone with prior experience at Ibrox, but it could be to avoid complacency and to avoid emotions dictating decisions.

It is the kind of ruthless decision that suggests that they could also be ruthless with underperforming players in the summer transfer window, particularly when it comes to the ones who are near the top of the wage bill.

The top ten earners at Rangers

Rangers have failed to win the league title in each of the last four seasons. This means that they have underperformed for several years, and suggests that the squad is not good enough.

James Tavernier, who has registered four goals and ten assists in the Premiership and the Europa League this season, is reportedly the top earner at Ibrox on a weekly wage of £30k.

As the captain and a regular starter who contributes with goals and assists on a regular basis, it is hard to argue that he does not provide value for money at this moment in time.

James Tavernier

£30k

Vaclav Cerny

£27k

Cyriel Dessers

£27k

Danilo

£26k

Jack Butland

£25k

Rabbi Matondo

£23k

Dujon Sterling

£22k

Tom Lawrence

£22k

Ianis Hagi

£21k

Nicolas Raskin

£19k

As you can see in the table above, though, there are some players who are not performing well enough this season to justify them being among the top earners at the club.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Jack Butland is one of those players who have not done enough on the pitch in the 2024/25 campaign to make his £25k-per-week wages worthwhile for the Light Blues.

The 49ers should, now, be ruthless in the summer transfer window by attempting to move on from the former England international, so that he is not part of the new era at Ibrox, as will be the case for Gerrard.

Why Jack Butland should not be a part of the 49ers era at Rangers

Rangers will need to make brutal decisions on players in order to improve the squad and to ensure that they can compete for major trophies next season, which means that they will have to make some bold calls on stars who have not hit the heights they once reached.

Butland enjoyed an excellent debut season with Rangers after his move from Crystal Palace on a free transfer in the summer of 2023, as he kept 25 clean sheets in 58 appearances in all competitions for the club.

The current campaign has not gone as smoothly for the experienced shot-stopper, though, as he is currently the second-choice behind Liam Kelly and has only kept 14 clean sheets in 42 appearances.

Unfortunately, errors, like the one in the clip above, have become too commonplace for Butland, who was once described as “error prone” by journalist Luke Hatfield.

The English goalkeeper conceded 1.32 more goals than expected, based on the xG of the shots against him, and kept two clean sheets in his ten outings in the Europa League this term.

Appearances

38

26

Save percentage

71%

67%

Clean sheets

18

10

Error led to shot

1

2

Error led to goal

0

2

Penalties committed

0

1

As you can see in the table above, Butland’s form in the Premiership has also declined after his impressive debut season in Scottish football between the sticks, as he has been an unreliable presence in goal for the Light Blues with his mistakes.

He has been far too ‘error prone’ in the top-flight, with five errors that have led to shots, goals, or penalties for the opposition, and has kept eight fewer clean sheets, which has led to him losing his place to Kelly.

Therefore, the club must be ruthless with Butland and attempt to move on from him in the summer transfer window because his performances suggest that he should not be a part of the new 49ers era at Ibrox, as his performances have not aligned with his place in the wage bill.

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It is now down to the new owners, once they are in place next month, to make that call and to recruit an upgrade on him before the start of next season.

Newcastle United are said to be “ready” to make a move for an “international” level midfielder this summer, according to a new transfer report.

Newcastle may need midfielder if Tonali leaves

The future of Sandro Tonali at St James’ Park is up in the air currently, with no guarantee that the Italian will still be at the club next, following two seasons there. One report has claimed that Newcastle are willing to listen to offers for the 24-year-old, with bids of around £68.5m possibly being accepted in the summer transfer window amid interest from Man City and Juventus.

Meanwhile, a swap deal involving the Magpies hero and Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic has also been mentioned, with the Serie A giants happy to let the Serb leave this summer.

Tonali himself played down a return to AC Milan earlier this year, prior to the EFL Cup final victory over Liverpool, saying: “I have never ever spoken about it with my agents. And I know, from experience, that if you don’t get to that point there is nothing. And in any case, I am happy with myself here [at Newcastle]. I have found my line and there is no need to upset it again. I want to win for the Newcastle United fans.”

Newcastle "ready" to sign Saelemaekers this summer

Now, according to Il Messaggero [via Sport Witness], Newcastle are “ready to invest” in Milan midfielder Alexis Saelemaekers this summer, with the 25-year-old out on loan at Roma currently. Milan are believed to value the midfielder at £17m, which is too much for Roma, with the Magpies and Nottingham Forest potentially looking to strike a permanent deal instead.

Whether Saelemaekers is seen as a possible replacement option for Tonali remains to be seen, but there is plenty for Eddie Howe to admire about him. The Belgian has enjoyed a good season out on loan at Roma, scoring six times in Serie A, which is two more than Bruno Guimaraes has managed in the Premier League.

Meanwhile, Claudio Ranieri lauded his quality and versatility earlier in the season, saying: “Saelemaekers is an international player, a good player who can play different roles. I needed him on this wing to execute certain plays, and he is doing well in interpreting what I want from him.”

Saelemaekers could add great energy to Newcastle’s midfield next season and beyond, with Howe no doubt liking the fact that he can shine in various central and wide roles, and he is a 14-cap Belgium international, which is no mean feat alongside some stellar names.

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At 25, there is a lot more to come from him, too, and while £17m could be a steal, his arrival hopefully wouldn’t be at the expense of Tonali, who the Magpies must look to keep hold of.

There is no escaping it: this season has been something of a disaster for Arsenal.

There is still a chance that Mikel Arteta’s side could do something miraculous in the Champions League, but following the news that Gabriel Magalhaes is the latest starter to need surgery on his hamstring, that feels incredibly unlikely.

Moreover, while the Premier League title race isn’t mathematically over, it is in reality, and while the absurd number of injuries the North Londoners have had to deal with have certainly played their part in that, it would also be fair to say the team have been lacklustre for large parts of the campaign.

One of those who has been far less effective than they were last season has been Leandro Trossard, which might explain why recent reports have linked the club with the perfect upgrade on the Belgian.

Arsenal transfer news

After what has been a pretty demoralising season for Arsenal, this summer looks like it’s going to be a massive one in terms of incomings – Arteta has said as much – with one of the most significant links in recent weeks being to Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres.

Transfer Focus

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

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The Swedish goal machine is supposedly available for around £58m, which could prove to be an incredible price considering he’s already scored 43 goals and provided 11 assists in 43 games this season.

Another name which continues to come up in connection with the Gunners is Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, who’s been having a tremendous season in West London and has already amassed a sensational tally of 16 goals and six assists in just 34 games this year.

However, in even more exciting news, the North Londoners seem to be focussing their energy on another international winger: Nico WIlliams.

According to a recent report from journalist Graeme Bailey, the Athletic Bilbao star has become the Gunners’ number one winger target ahead of the summer, a stance that new Sporting Director Andrea Berta agrees with.

In fact, Bailey has revealed that Arsenal have been in ‘constant communication with Williams for 12-months now’, which led to a meeting between Berta and the player’s representatives earlier this week, a meeting which convinced the Italian that the winger would be keen on the project.

If Arsenal can convince the 22-year-old to join them, they’ll have to spend £48m to activate his release clause, and while that is a lot of money, it would be more than worth it, especially as he’d be an ideal Trossard upgrade.

How Williams compares to Trossard

So, if Williams does make his way to Arsenal this summer, one of his biggest competitors for game time next season – should he stay – will be Trossard, but how do the pair stack up to one another?

Well, when it comes down to their output, which matters most for an attacker, it is a comfortable and conclusive victory for the Spaniard.

For example, in 37 appearances last season, the “relentless” talent, as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, scored eight goals and provided 18 assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.42 games.

Williams vs Trossard

23/24

Williams

Trossard

Appearances

37

46

Minutes

2729′

2263′

Goals

8

17

Assists

18

2

Goal Involvements per Match

0.70

0.41

Goal Involvements per Minute

104.96′

119.10′

24/25

Williams

Trossard

Appearances

38

44

Minutes

2689′

2678′

Goals

9

6

Assists

7

8

Goal Involvements per Match

0.42

0.31

Goal Involvements per Minute

168.06′

191.28′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

In contrast, the Gunners’ ace, who still had a good season himself, scored 17 goals and provided two assists in 46 appearances, which comes out to a still impressive but less effective average of a goal involvement every 2.42 games.

Unfortunately for the Belgian, he’s taken a step back this year, scoring six goals and providing eight assists in 44 appearances, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 3.14 games.

On the other hand, the Bilbao star has scored nine goals and provided seven assists in just 38 appearances, which translates into an average of a goal involvement every 2.37 games.

Furthermore, on top of the clear difference in their output, the Pamplona-born gem is eight years younger than his potential teammate, and with a European Championship and Copa del Rey medal already in his collection, might bring more of a winning mentality to the team.

Ultimately, Trossard is a talented player and someone useful to have in the squad, but it’s abundantly clear that Williams is the far superior winger, so Arsenal should do all they can to sign him this summer.

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The miracle at Edgbaston or the second-highest chase in history. Pick between the two as we begin to identify The Greatest Test of the 21st century

Himanshu Agrawal06-May-2025Update: This poll has ended. The SA-AUS 2008 Perth Test moves to the round of 16.South Africa bend Australia to their will – WACA 2008Australia were in transition ahead of the home summer in 2008-09, but showed that none of their powers were lost in beating New Zealand 2-0. They kept finding a hero to lead the rescue mission.But the script was flipped in the first Test against South Africa in Perth. Despite a familiar lower-order resolve in the first innings, despite typical macho fast-bowling from Mitchell Johnson, who bagged a career-best 8 for 61, and despite setting South Africa a huge 414 to win, Ricky Ponting’s side was left aghast. Centuries from AB de Villiers and Graeme Smith, and half-centuries from Jacques Kallis, Hashim Amla and debutant JP Duminy, led South Africa to the second-highest successful chase in Test history.That was Australia’s second successive loss at the WACA after India beat them there in 2007-08. And who knew at the time that it would lay the foundation for the first of three back-to-back Test series wins by South Africa in the country? Australia’s aura had started to fade.The two runs that brought the Ashes alive – Edgbaston 2005The drama had begun before the toss. Glenn McGrath had hurt his ankle on the first morning of the match, and the man who replaced him nearly did it for Australia… with the bat. On the fourth day, Australia were 137 for 7 in their pursuit of 282. Michael Clarke was their only hope, and it took an ahead-of-the-time slower ball from Steve Harmison to dismiss him and make it 175 for 8. With Shane Warne, Brett Lee and Michael Kasprowicz, who took McGrath’s place in the side, remaining, England were favourites.But run by run, and minute by minute, Warne hurt England with the bat after bagging ten wickets with the ball. His stoic stand with Lee, who also looked unmoved, was fanning belief. But then, with Australia 62 runs away and the pair having added 45, a little flicker of a sound broke the silence of the stadium. Everyone searched for it. Warne found it. He had trod back onto his stumps. He was hit-wicket.Most of us would have forgotten by then that it was the Australia of their pomp. On their day, even a No. 11 could raise the ceiling with the bat. Kasprowicz did exactly that. Michael Vaughan looked frustrated with every run Lee and Kasprowicz scored. Until, with three to get, Harmison’s short ball saw Kasprowicz fending, and nudging behind to a diving Geraint Jones. Billy Bowden’s crooked finger was up, Edgbaston erupted, and Andrew Flintoff consoling Lee became an iconic image.