Manchester United’s front line has been the subject of various additions already this summer, as Ruben Amorim looks to overhaul his first-team squad.

The manager has already secured the signing of forward Matheus Cunha from fellow Premier League outfit Wolves, costing a fee in the region of £62.5m.

Despite the huge fee spent on the 25-year-old, more business is expected to be completed in such a department, with Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo another name on their shortlist.

He’s been subject to multiple offers from the Red Devils already this window, but a deal is yet to be agreed after he stated his desire to make the switch to Old Trafford.

Other players have remained as key targets for the 40-year-old boss, who appears to be at the heart of various deals which could massively bolster the ranks at the Theatre of Dreams.

The latest on United’s hunt for added reinforcements this summer

The forward line has been the main focus for Jason Wilcox and Co this window, as seen by United’s tireless efforts to complete a move to land Cunha ahead of the 2025/26 season.

The Brazilian isn’t alone in being pursued by staff behind the scenes in Manchester, with the likes of Victor Osimhen, Kang-in Lee and Rafael Leao just three other talents currently in their sights.

However, they aren’t the only options, with Amorim’s side taking a huge step to secure the signature of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, according to Record via CaughtOffside.

It’s been reported that positive meetings have been held with the striker’s representatives and that a bid is expected to be lodged to take the Swede to Old Trafford this summer.

They also claim that the Portuguese outfit are holding out for €80m (£67m) to part ways with their talisman, who’s managed to find the net on 54 occasions throughout 2024/25.

Why United’s latest target could be Amorim’s own answer to Kane

Harry Kane is a striker who every side in world football must wish they had, considering his goalscoring exploits, which have made him one of Europe’s most sought-after talents.

The 31-year-old spent 10 years as a first-team regular at Tottenham Hotspur, racking up 280 goals and becoming their all-time record goalscorer in the process.

However, it wasn’t enough to propel Spurs to any form of silverware, subsequently moving to Bayern Munich in the summer of 2023, with the Englishman carrying on his rich vein of form in front of goal.

He’s netted a staggering 82 goals in his 91 appearances for the Bundesliga outfit, with Kane evidently making the right choice to move to Germany over a switch to Old Trafford after the Red Devils’ previous interest in his services.

This summer presents Amorim’s side with the chance to land their own talisman in the form of Gyokeres, with the Sporting star comparable to the England international by FBref.

When comparing the pair’s respective figures from the recent campaign, the Swede has managed to outperform him in numerous key departments – handing United their answer to Kane should he move this summer.

The Swede, who’s been labelled a “monster” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has massively outscored the Bayern ace, whilst also managing to register a higher shot-on-target rate, handing Amorim the deadly threat in front of goal he’s desperately craved.

Games played

33

31

Goals & assists

46

35

Shot-on-target accuracy

52%

42%

Shots on target

2.2

1.7

Take-ons completed

1.9

0.8

Carries into final third

1.3

0.7

Carries into opposition box

3.1

0.7

Aerials won

1.3

1

He’s also managed to complete more take-ons and register more carries into the opposition’s area, subsequently being able to improve the tallies of other players around him.

Gyokeres’ aerial ability could also prove handy for the Red Devils, handing the side a focal point to play-off, whilst also offering an added threat from set pieces to improve their goalscoring record.

There’s no denying Kane will go down as one of the Premier League’s greatest ever goalscorers, with Gyokeres having huge pressure to replicate such success should he move to England this window.

The comparison is credit to the striker and an indication as to how impressive he’s been in recent times, potentially offering a new dimension to the club should he complete the switch in the coming months.

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Manchester United could be about to make a move for a player who could follow in Robin van Persie’s footsteps.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 12, 2025

Leeds United may be closing in on their first signing of the summer transfer window as they pursue a deal for Udinese central defender Jaka Bijol.

The Athletic reports that the clubs are in talks over a deal that could be worth up to £15.2m for the Slovenia international to make the move to Elland Road in the coming weeks.

It is claimed that the Championship champions are ‘optimistic’ about getting a deal over the line for the Serie A centre-back to bolster Daniel Farke’s options at the back ahead of a season in the Premier League.

The Athletic adds, however, that the club are less hopeful of a move to sign Habib Diarra from Strasbourg, despite placing a bid worth £22m in for the Senegal international.

This suggests that Diarra, who scored against England at the City Ground on Tuesday night, is unlikely to make the move to Elland Road this summer, whereas Bijol could be added to the squad.

What Habib Diarra could bring to Leeds

Missing out on a deal for the Senegal international could be a blow for the West Yorkshire outfit because the central midfielder has shown plenty of promise with his performances in Ligue 1 for Strasbourg.

Diarra ended the 2024/25 campaign with a return of four goals and five assists in 30 matches in the French top-flight, which shows that he can make a decent impact at the top end of the pitch from a midfield position.

This, along with his performance against England, suggests that the 21-year-old star could bring a threat in front of goal for the Whites in the Premier League, as both a scorer and a creator of goals.

However, Diarra’s play out of possession does leave a bit to be desired and there would be concerns over his suitability defensively to the physical demands of the Premier League.

Appearances

30

Goals

4

Assists

5

Tackles + interceptions per game

1.1

Error led to shot

3

Ground duel success rate

49%

Aerial duel success rate

43%

As you can see in the table above, the Strasbourg star lost the majority of his duels on the deck and in the air in Ligue 1 this season, whilst only making 1.1 tackles and interceptions per game.

The central midfielder’s three errors that directly led to shots also suggest that he can be wasteful on the ball in his own third, as his sloppy passing was punished by opposition teams at times.

Diarra, therefore, may not be the perfect option for Leeds this summer because he would not bring defensive strength to go along with his technical qualities at the top end of the pitch.

This is why it should come as good news to supporters that the Whites are reportedly eyeing up another midfield star who would be even better than the Strasbourg ace.

Leeds eyeing deal for £25m midfielder

According to TEAMtalk, Leeds United are one of the teams eyeing up a deal to sign Rangers central midfielder Nicolas Raskin in the summer transfer window.

The report claims that the Championship champions, established Premier League side Aston Villa, Porto, Marseille, and Fiorentina are all interested in signing the Belgium international to bolster their options in the middle of the park.

Transfer Focus

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

It states that Leeds have a long-standing interest in the Rangers star, which dates back to his time at Standard Liege in 2022, and that they view him as a perfect fit for Farke’s midfield in the top-flight next season.

TEAMtalk adds that the Scottish giants are keen to get maximum value out of the Belgian dynamo and are ready to demand a fee of up to £25m for the 24-year-old star.

Leeds must, now, push to win the race for the Scottish Premiership starlet because he could be an even better signing than Diarra this summer.

Why Leeds should sign Nicolas Raskin

The Rangers star would be a better addition for Farke to bolster his midfield options because he offers more both in and out of possession in comparison to the Senegal international.

Unlike Diarra, Raskin constantly looks to win possession back for his side with tackles and interceptions, making 5.0 tackles and interceptions combined in 12 appearances in the Europa League this season.

The 24-year-old ace, as shown in the clip above, can also step up to provide goals and assists when called upon, though, and is more than just a midfield destroyer.

Raskin ended the 2024/25 campaign with a return of five goals and 11 assists in all competitions for the Light Blues, which suggests that he can offer a big threat in front of goal, particularly as a creator.

Appearances

30

33

Goals

4

4

Assists

5

10

Tackles + interceptions per game

1.1

3.4

Error led to shot

3

1

Ground duel success rate

49%

57%

Aerial duel success rate

43%

56%

As you can see in the table above, the Belgian midfield maestro outperformed Diarra at league level this season with his contributions at both ends of the pitch as a number eight.

These statistics suggest that Raskin, once hailed as “unbelievable” by ex-Rangers forward Kris Boyd, would offer far more to Leeds in midfield due to his ability to combine attacking flair with defensive steel.

For a fee of just £3m more than the £22m they bid for Diarra, Leeds could land a bargain by signing the Gers midfielder for £25m before the end of the summer window to bolster their options in the middle of the park.

Whilst both players are unproven in the Premier League to date, Raskin has showcased his defensive qualities on the European stage in the Europa League and still has time left on his side to develop further at the age of 24.

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ByDan Emery Jun 9, 2025

With the available evidence from the 2024/25 campaign, though, it would appear as though the Rangers star would be a significantly better signing than Diarra, which is why the club should pursue a deal for him over the Strasbourg ace.

Yet again in his glorious Manchester City reign, Pep Guardiola is overseeing a rebuild. Following a largely underwhelming 2024/25 campaign, it is a case of out with the old and in with the new.

Indeed, having previously phased out the likes of Yaya Toure, Vincent Kompany, David Silva and Sergio Aguero in the past, the Catalan coach is now repeating the process in relation to his treble-winning side of 2023.

The great Kevin De Bruyne is on his way to Napoli by all accounts, while Kyle Walker – fresh from his own sojourn to Serie A – is expected to seal a permanent exit this summer, after eight years at the Etihad.

With doubts also emerging over the futures of Bernardo Silva and Jack Grealish, among others, there could well be a fresh feel to the Citizens next season, having already begun the overhaul with four new additions in January.

That quartet appear to be just the start of things, if recent reports are anything to go by, with the Premier League giants seemingly closing in on a first move of the window, amid the imminent arrival of Tijjani Reijnders.

Latest on Man City's transfer search

While the search to replace that man De Bruyne has dominated talk in recent weeks – amid interest in the likes of Morgan Gibbs-White and the Liverpool-bound, Florian Wirtz – a further priority also lies in finding a suitable partner for Rodri in that number eight berth.

Transfer Focus

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

The Manchester outfit did only recently fork out £50m for the signing of Nico Gonzalez from Porto, albeit with the Spaniard seemingly deemed as a replacement rather than a partner for his compatriot, having been dubbed a “mini-Rodri” by Guardiola.

With that in mind, sporting director Hugo Viana has turned his attention elsewhere in the bid to bolster those midfield ranks even further, with transfer guru Fabrizio Romano revealing that City have a “verbal agreement in place” for AC Milan star, Reijnders.

The signing of the 26-year-old – for what is expected to be a package of around €70m (£59m) – could well be followed by the capture of Lyon’s Rayan Cherki, with Romano also outlining that personal terms have been agreed with the playmaker.

The suggestion is that City will lodge a bid “in the next hours” amid their desire to get the deal done, amid rival interest from Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund, with prior reports indicating that Cherki could be available for as little as £25m.

Why Cherki would be a good signing

It may go against the Guardiola grain to be signing a “maverick” talent like the Lyon starlet, as hailed by pundit Rio Ferdinand, although the Citizens are in need of a fresh creative source, in the wake of De Bruyne’s imminent exit.

With the aforementioned Grealish – and England teammate, Phil Foden – providing just 11 goals and assists between them in the Premier League last season, the onus is on finding a suitable supplier for main man, Erling Haaland.

In many ways, Guardiola’s side are still seeking to find a suitable successor to Riyad Mahrez in the forward line, with one-time Leicester City hero having racked up 78 goals and 59 assists in 236 games prior to his 2023 exit, a return that included 28 goal involvements in all competitions during his final season.

Described as a player who can “change the game” by his manager, the now 34-year-old was simply a genius during his time in English football, possessing a wand of a left foot and an ability to create something out of nothing down that right flank.

Those are traits which the veteran no doubt shares with young Cherki, with the France U21 international – who qualifies to play for Algeria, like Mahrez – also a creative weapon. Equally, like Mahrez too, the left-footer is comfortable operating down the right flank or in a number ten berth.

Hailed as a “future Ballon d’Or winner” by The Athletic’s Alex Barker, Cherki is fresh off the back of a campaign that ended with a remarkable haul of 32 goals and assists from just 44 games, including 19 goals and assists in Ligue 1.

Such form in France’s top-flight saw the 21-year-old notably create 22 big chances and average 2.5 key passes per game, during his 30 league outings, as per Sofascore, having also averaged 1.6 successful dribbles as a sign of his breathtaking ability to beat his man.

Cherki vs Mahrez comparison – League stats
Stat (per 90)	Cherki (2024/25)	Mahrez (2022/23)
Non-penalty goals	0.35	0.19
Assists	0.49	0.47
Shot-creating actions	6.44	5.44
Passes attempted	60.63	54.66
Pass completion	78.5%	82.2%
Progressive passes	9.08	3.56
Progressive carries	4.67	3.66
Successful take-ons	2.12	1.17
Touches in opposition box	5.82	5.16
Progressive passes received	8.11	11.34
Stats via FBref

When comparing his recent heroics with Mahrez’s final Premier League campaign, it is easy to see their statistical and stylistic likeness too, with the pair both ranking highly for assists and shot-creating actions per 90, indicating their unique ability to generate opportunities in the final third.

That desire to make things happen is also evident with regard to the ‘passes attempted’ metric, with that knack for conjuring a moment of magic seemingly needed to help replace the likes of the “predictable” Grealish, as described by Gary Neville.

With Mahrez having repeatedly delivered the goods for City in previous years, Guardiola could now find his heir apparent by plucking Cherki from Lyon.

"World-class" star now pushing to join Man City quickly; £59m+ offer needed

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Dominic Lund

Jun 3, 2025

Thomas Frank is poised to become the new manager of Tottenham Hotspur, and he’s thought to have his eyes on some transfer targets already.

Tottenham closing in on Thomas Frank appointment after talks

Respected journalist Fabrizio Romano says Frank to Tottenham is already a done deal, with the Lilywhites set to trigger his £10 million release clause and secure Ange Postecoglou’s replacement in quick fashion.

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Following chairman Daniel Levy’s tough decision to axe a manager who ended the club’s 17-year wait for a major trophy, whilst securing qualification for next season’s Champions League, Spurs have wasted no time in getting his successor through the door.

Tottenham’s best-performing regulars in the Premier League – 2024/2025

Average match rating

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Postecoglou was a popular figurehead among the squad, with James Maddison, Lucas Bergvall, Archie Gray and Pedro Porro all speaking publicly in defence of the Australian before his dismissal, so Frank has big shoes to fill.

The Dane’s experience of overperforming on a very limited transfer budget, not to mention his work under a data-driven recruitment model similar to Tottenham’s, makes him a solid candidate to replace Postecoglou.

The downsides of this prospective appointment lie with Frank’s inexperience managing an elite-level side or competing in the Champions League, and the 51-year-old has no major honours to boast of heading into the biggest job of his career.

Frank will need plenty of backing this summer from Levy and technical director Johan Lange, who he already knows very well from their time together working in Denmark, and they’ve been familiar with one another for many years.

Tottenham are set for a significant financial boost due to their confirmed place in the Champions League next season, and they’ll no longer have to adopt a sell-to-buy policy this summer as a result (Michael Bridge).

Reports suggest Frank has already identified transfer targets ahead of his arrival at Spurs, with Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze firmly in his thinking (GiveMeSport).

Tottenham consider "bold" move for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite

As per TEAMtalk, Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite is another player admired by Frank.

The 22-year-old has been a star mainstay of the Toffees backline since returning to Merseyside from a successful loan spell at PSV Eindhoven during the 2022/2023 season, and England fans were left shocked when Gareth Southgate omitted Branthwaite from his Three Lions squad for Euro 2024.

Branthwaite is attracting interest from across the Premier League, and Tottenham are certainly in the mix for his services, despite Everton slapping a £70 million price tag on his head.

That is according to TT, who also claim that Frank sees Branthwaite as the ideal Spurs signing to prepare for Champions League football, with Tottenham considering a “bold” move to bring him down south.

A move to N17 is also described as “appealing” to Branthwaite, considering their state-of-the-art set-up and place in Europe’s most prestigious competition, but remaining at Everton is also tempting for him given their new stadium and promise shown under David Moyes.

The Toffees will apparently fight tooth and nail to keep hold of him for next season, so a lot will hinder on how high Tottenham are ready to bid.

Reliable journalist Paul Joyce has claimed that Everton are interested in sealing a stunning move for a “special” attacking player this summer.

Moyes eyeing big future at Everton

After some grim seasons of late, which have included several relegation battles in the Premier League, there is a feeling of positivity with the Toffees, not least because David Moyes has returned as manager, easily steering them to safety ahead of the move to their new stadium.

The Scot has been forceful about how he is expecting a better future at Everton with him in charge, with the hope being that funds will be made available for important transfer business.

“I think more the feeling [is] that there might be a club which is ­coming back together. Signs that before there was a real break-up, of a sort of love affair with the supporters, the ­players, the club, the owners. So we’re all trying to get back. We’re obviously all looking forward to it. If we can take what we had today to the new stadium, it’ll be something.”

New signings are needed in various areas of the pitch for Everton, not least in attack, with goals coming at a premium at times this season, with 41 goals scored in 37 games. Now, a shock rumour has emerged regarding a potential attacking signing for the Merseysiders.

Everton keen on "special" Liverpool player

According to the reliable Joyce of The Times, Everton “hold an interest” in Liverpool winger Ben Doak, seeing him as an option to bring in this summer.

The 19-year-old has spent this season on loan at Championship side Middlesbrough, with the Reds unable to give him regular playing time, and a permanent move away from Anfield could now be on the cards.

The idea of Everton signing Doak is a mouthwatering prospect, not only because of the stunning nature of taking him from rivals Liverpool, but also due to his long-term potential.

The teenage winger is already a six-cap Scotland international, and he was enjoying a fruitful time loan at Middlesbrough before injury struck in January, bagging 10 goal contributions (three goals and seven assists) in the Championship.

Doak also caught the eye of Jurgen Klopp during their time together at Liverpool, with the German clearly a big admirer of the Scot, saying: “Special boy. Really confident, has something nobody else delivers, really; this kind of dribbling, this kind of straight-forward bravery, all these kinds of things.”

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ByAngus Sinclair May 23, 2025

Forgetting the Liverpool connection, Doak is a hugely exciting footballer who could reach great heights with his pace and unpredictability in the coming years, and while the Reds may be hesitant to sell to their rivals, Everton should look to strike a deal.

As Graham Potter looks to shape his West Ham United side ahead of his first full season in charge, the Hammers have reportedly made contact to sign an impressive Serie A midfielder who once pocketed Declan Rice.

West Ham keen on attacking additions

It’s a big few months ahead for Potter and his side following a tough start to life at the London Stadium for the former Chelsea manager. After arriving to replace the struggling Julen Lopetegui, many expected Potter to make his mark from the off and ensure that any Stamford Bridge failure became an afterthought. That new manager bounce never truly came, however, and the pressure is now on.

Games

20

Wins

6

Draws

5

Defeats

9

Following just six wins in his first 20 games and a frustrating 14th-place finish in the Premier League, Potter and West Ham must ensure that they get off to a quick start next season.

What should help that is their potential work in the summer transfer window. Already, they’ve reportedly set their sights on attacking additions such as Adama Bojang and AS Roma’s Tammy Abraham.

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The latter would be a particularly wise addition given his past Premier League experience and the Hammers could yet land a relatively routine deal following his struggles on loan at AC Milan last season.

Abraham, like West Ham, endured a season to forget last time out and could certainly do with a return to the Premier League if he is to rediscover his best form in the next campaign.

It’s not just their frontline that West Ham must improve, however. Amid previous reports that David Moyes’ Everton side are interested in signing Tomas Soucek this summer, those at the London Stadium could be forced to find a replacement. And what better way to replace the towering midfielder than by signing a player who “shut down” former star Rice?

West Ham make contact to sign Musah

According to TeamTalk, West Ham have now made initial contact to sign Yunus Musah from AC Milan this summer. The American international initially looked on his way to Serie A champions Napoli in a deal worth €25m (£21m) before Milan changed their stance and demanded that price as well as add-ons. Now, the Hammers have a chance to sneak in ahead of Napoli.

Whether West Ham are willing to do what Napoli are not will be the big question, but their interest in Musah should come as no surprise. At 22 years old, the midfielder already has some impressive experience under his belt at the top level, including at the 2022 World Cup.

It was in Qatar that the Milan man caught the eye for the USA, especially against England as he helped his side earn a 0-0 draw against the Three Lions. Earning the praise of Jacek Kulig as a result, the scout claimed that both Musah and Tyler Adams “shut down” an England midfield which included Rice and Jude Bellingham.

Match details

USA vs England
Barbados, June 23, 10.30am local time

Big picture – Can USA upset calculations?

If this is the end of the road for USA’s memorable T20 World Cup 2024 journey – they could still squeak into the semi-finals, but the odds are very much against them – then what a stage on which to bow out, facing up to the defending champions with one last chance to cause an upset.England and USA have met at both football and rugby World Cups but this will be their first cricketing encounter of the modern age. Jos Buttler’s side have endured a choppy campaign so far, winning three and losing two to go with a no result in their opening match at Kensington Oval. But they return to Barbados knowing that a convincing performance will go a long way to ensuring their title defence continues into the knockouts.Related

• Buttler: De Kock innings 'the difference' in narrow SA win

• Chase, Hope help West Indies thump USA for NRR boost

• What do South Africa, England and West Indies need to do?

Victory will put them on four points, and a margin of more than ten runs (batting first) will ensure their net run-rate goes above that of South Africa, who then take on West Indies in the final Group 2 game later on Sunday.England’s cushion comes from their convincing win over the other co-hosts West Indies at the start of the Super Eight, and Buttler remained upbeat after his side lost a close game to South Africa in St Lucia. England have rarely been at their best over the last three weeks in the Caribbean but there have been signs that their game is coming together at the right time for a tilt at becoming the first team to successfully defend the T20 World Cup trophy.Before they get that far, they must avoid a mishap against a USA side that burned brightly at the start of the tournament but has looked to be running low on gas after three defeats in a row against Full Member oppositions. Their success has already put the names of Aaron Jones, Monank Patel and Saurabh Netravalkar in lights. If they can summon one final effort and become the latest former colony to put one over on the mother country, it will add another sprinkle of Hollywood stardust to cricket’s American adventure.

Form guide

USA LLLWW
England LWWWLLiam Livingstone nearly took England home against South Africa•ICC/Getty Images

In the spotlight – Aaron Jones and Liam Livingstone

Aaron Jones‘ six over midwicket to seal a rousing opening-night win over Canada was the shot that was heard around the World Cup. He followed up a career-defining 94 not out by helping secure the tie that eventually led to USA’s Super Over victory over Pakistan, but has found the going tougher since then, with scores of 11, 0 and 11. Taking on the captaincy, in the absence of the injured Monank, has added to his burden. But he has another chance to impress at a ground where he played in four first-class matches for Barbados during his time in West Indies’ domestic system.An innings of 33 off 17 balls in a losing cause might not sound much, but could it turn out to be the spark Liam Livingstone needed? Livingstone’s attempt to get England over the line against South Africa, helping to revive their chase while adding 78 for the fifth wicket alongside Harry Brook, was only the second time he has scored more than 30 in 22 T20 innings this year. His power when taking down Ottneil Baartman at the death was a reminder of what he can do, and suggested that he may be ready to repay England’s faith that he remains the answer in the finisher role.2:19

Stuart Law: ‘If we’re not winning, we’re learning’

Team news – England unlikely to make any changes

USA have been without Monank since their group-stage win over Pakistan, but head coach Stuart Law suggested he was close to returning from a shoulder injury. “He’s getting better, we’re constantly assessing him,” Law said after the defeat to West Indies on Friday. “Unfortunately, he nearly made it for this one. So, we’re constantly assessing it.”USA (probable): 1 Steven Taylor, 2 Andries Gous (wk), 3 Nitish Kumar, 4 Aaron Jones (capt), 5 Corey Anderson, 6 Shayan Jahangir, 7 Harmeet Singh, 8 Nosthush Kenjinge, 9 Shadley van Schalkwyk, 10 Ali Khan, 11 Saurabh NetravalkarEngland may be unchanged for the third match running, having apparently settled on Jonny Bairstow at No. 3 and Sam Curran as the extra bowling/left-hand batter option. Chris Jordan could replace Mark Wood to add further depth to the batting.England (probable): 1 Phil Salt, 2 Jos Buttler (capt & wk), 3 Jonny Bairstow, 4 Moeen Ali, 5 Harry Brook, 6 Liam Livingstone, 7 Sam Curran, 8 Chris Jordan/Mark Wood, 9 Jofra Archer, 10 Adil Rashid 11 Reece Topley

Pitch and conditions

Kensington Oval is one of only two venues at this World Cup to have seen a 200-plus score, but generally, the pitches have been on the tacky side. The forecast for Sunday has improved although there is still a chance of rainfall interrupting proceedings.

Stats and trivia

• This will be the first meeting between England and USA with full international status in any format
• England have played 13 completed T20Is in Bridgetown, winning six (including the 2010 T20 World Cup final) and losing seven
• Sam Curran needs one more wicket to reach 50 in T20Is

Quotes

“We’ve just got to win the game. We haven’t played them before so it’ll be a good challenge and we’re looking forward to it. The games come thick and fast now so we’ve got to dust ourselves down and go again. We’ve had a great win against the West Indies, a great game today which was a shame not to win but we’re still in it and looking ahead to the next one.”

“I think every match we play, obviously, representing the country is important. So, we’ll definitely go hard against England and try to finish well. Obviously, we can’t advance to the next round. But as I say, I think every match you play for your country is important. So, we’re definitely going to try to win the game for sure.”

It wasn’t exactly a well-kept secret this summer that Birmingham City were interested in landing Peterborough United superstar Kwame Poku.

Unfortunately, the Blues’ drawn-out pursuit of the entertaining Ghanaian has seemingly gone cold now, as the likes of Russell Martin’s Rangers accelerate to the front of the queue for his coveted services instead.

This would have been a knock to Chris Davies and Co.’s confidence as they navigate up to the Championship, but it hasn’t stopped them from pressing on with other attacking targets, as the ambitious Blues look to close in on another statement addition up top.

Birmingham close in on statement reunion

As per a recent report from journalist Alan Nixon, the newly promoted outfit look to be edging ever closer to bringing former star Demarai Gray back to their ranks this summer.

Transfer Focus

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

Expand Collapse

Much like their chase for Poku, it had been well publicised that the Blues wanted to make such a stunning reunion happen.

Now, it might well become a reality, with both Sunderland and Fiorentina, who had also been looking at signing the experienced Jamaica international in an £8m deal, left in Birmingham’s dust to seal the sublime move.

Whilst the Rangers-bound attacker had been viewed as the flavour of the month in the EFL after a sensational season on the books of Posh, landing Gray might well be an even more exciting pick-up than the 23-year-old.

Why Gray would be a more exciting signing than Poku

If Birmingham are deadly serious about going after back-to-back promotions, Gray joining will undoubtedly help them to pull off such an arduous feat, with the former Blues prodigy going on to have a lengthy career at the very top after waving St. Andrew’s goodbye in 2016.

Indeed, Gray is likely more well-known in English football now for being a Premier League regular on the books of Leicester City and Everton, than a one-time academy product emerging up the Blues ranks.

In total, the Birmingham-born forward has amassed over 200 Premier League appearances for the likes of the Foxes and the Toffees, with an impressive 19 goals and 14 assists coming his way from those contests, on top of a Premier League title astoundingly being lifted when situated at the King Power Stadium.

Gray’s G/A numbers by club

Club played for

Games played

Goals scored

Assists

Leicester

169

13

14

Birmingham

78

8

4

Everton

75

12

6

Al-Ettifaq

50

4

5

Bayer Leverkusen

12

1

2

Sourced by Transfermarkt

Poku might well have a certain level of freshness on his side – considering he has just tallied up a blistering 12 goals and 11 assists for Darren Ferguson’s men last campaign – but the table above really does speak for itself when judging the 28-year-old’s pedigree alone, with a season even under his belt in the Bundesliga when lining up for Bayer Leverkusen.

Moreover, whilst Poku was a breakout success for Posh last season, he has never actually bagged a goal in the Championship, despite ripping up the third-tier, with just a meagre two goal contributions next to his name at the difficult level from 20 clashes.

An “electric” attacker on his day – in the words of journalist Scott Saunders – his first major steps in the senior game did actually come in the Championship with his hometown club, notably netting a memorable hat-trick above three of the eight strikes he has managed in the division when donning Birmingham blue.

It will now be up to Gray to roll back the years on his expected return, with more Premier League appearances perhaps coming his way down the line.

Whilst Poku is the talk of the town as an up-and-coming ace, Gray has already cemented himself as a Championship-capable talent and beyond across his vast playing days, with another chapter soon to be added to his packed story when hopefully starring for Davies and Co.

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He could be an excellent summer addition.

Posts 1 ByHenry Jackson Jun 22, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have now made an approach to sign a “superb” £34m player, who has already turned down a move to Arsenal this summer, according to a report.

Spurs eyeing new signings amid Frank pursuit

With Daniel Levy controversially dismissing Ange Postecoglou last week, the chairman has wasted no time searching for a replacement for the Australian, and widespread reports are suggesting that Thomas Frank has now agreed to take the job.

However, former Spurs boss Tim Sherwood has admitted he is “worried” about what Levy’s objective for the new manager will be, given that Postecoglou was sacked after winning a trophy, and it must be noted Frank has never won a major honour, despite doing a stellar job at Brentford.

Should the Dane be appointed, he is likely to have a say in the recruitment this summer, but the Lilywhites are continuing to assess potential options without a permanent manager in place.

That is according to a report from RMC Sport, which states Tottenham have now made an approach over a deal for AS Roma’s Evan Ndicka, having submitted an enquiry, with Premier League rivals Manchester United doing the same.

Ndicka, who is valued at €40m (£34m) is in no rush to decide his next move, and will take time to consider the offers he receives, but one thing that is clear is that he will not be heading to the Emirates Stadium, having already turned down a move to Arsenal this summer.

"Superb" Ndicka could be solid Romero replacement

Postecoglou may not be the only key Spurs figure to leave this summer, as there have been doubts over Cristian Romero’s future for quite some time, with it previously being revealed that Levy is open to sanctioning the Argentina international’s departure this summer.

Tottenham now ready to hijack move for £60m star Frank called "incredible"

Spurs have joined the race for a forward, who has left top manager target Thomas Frank impressed in the past.

ByDominic Lund Jun 8, 2025

As such, one of Frank’s most important tasks, should he become the new manager, may be to bring in a new centre-back, and there are some signs the Roma defender could be a solid option, having previously been dubbed “superb” by scout Jacek Kulig.

The 6 foot 4 colossus is certainly an imposing presence, which means he is also a threat from set-pieces, as shown when he bagged his first goal for Roma against Tottenham in the Europa League last November.

Ndicka could be a solid signing for Spurs, but it is important they get the green light from Frank or any other potential new manager before pursuing a deal.

The young opener appears set to be given the first chance at being Warner’s long-term white-ball replacement

ESPNcricinfo staff27-Jun-20241:23

Clarke: Some Australia players might walk away from T20Is

David Warner has passed the opening baton over to Jake Fraser-McGurk, believing the 22-year-old can fill his role in both of Australia’s white-ball sides and potentially has a future in the Test team as well.Warner has become a mentor to Fraser-McGurk with the pair spending a lot of time together in the IPL, where they played for Delhi Capitals, and recently at the T20 World Cup when Fraser-McGurk joined as a travelling reserve.Related

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Warner’s international career came to an end with Australia’s Super Eight exit, meaning a new era at the top of the order looms in both limited-overs formats.”All yours now champion,” Warner captioned an Instagram Stories post on Wednesday of himself and Fraser-McGurk sharing a drink.Speaking to Australian reporters after the team’s exit was confirmed, Warner endorsed Fraser-McGurk’s credentials as an opener in T20s and ODIs.”Every time I put something out there I become a selector [but] I think he’s definitely got the ability to definitely do that,” Warner told and .”He can lock it in. And a bit like myself, you [have to learn] how to play…50-over cricket. That’s one thing that I learnt from Twenty20. I got dropped after seven games because I didn’t really understand how to play the game of one-day cricket.”So from a one-day perspective if he learns that and understands that he’ll have a fantastic career, especially batting in Australia. Best wickets in the world.”Fraser-McGurk, who played two ODIs against West Indies in February, hitting 51 runs off 23 balls across a pair of innings, and earlier in the season hammered a world-record 29-ball one-day century in the Marsh Cup, will likely be included for September’s tours of Scotland and England as Australia start to look to the future.Jake Fraser-McGurk won’t have to wait long for his next chance with Australia•Associated PressHowever, Fraser-McGurk himself has played down the prospect of following Warner as a red-ball opener after finding an experiment at the top of the order for South Australia in the Sheffield Shield didn’t suit him. He made 19 runs in four innings opening having earlier in the season scored a maiden first-class hundred at No. 6.”Last year when I was put up to open the batting in Shield cricket, that’s not me. Had Xavier Bartlett bowling huge outswingers on a green top at Adelaide Oval…it was torture. Hopefully won’t do that again, that’s one thing I won’t be able to do,” he told the .Warner acknowledged the competing demands that will come Fraser-McGurk’s way from the franchise scene but was encouraged by his desire to pursue first-class cricket.”Will he play Test cricket? I think he’ll have to have a breakout year in the next 12-18 months to prove himself,” Warner said. “I think we’ve all had to score hundreds to get your name up there [to] warrant that.”Hopefully when it comes to Shield cricket this year, he sticks at that. There’s going to be a lot of money thrown around to him for these Twenty20 leagues and it’s upon him and his management to keep him focused and aligned with what he wants to do. But I hope he does – I know he’s thinking like that. He wants to play red-ball cricket.”