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Kasun Rajitha, Akila Dananjaya back in Sri Lanka Test squad for first match against Bangladesh in Galle

Madushka Balasuriya15-Jun-2025Sri Lanka have rung in the changes, naming six uncapped players in their squad for the first Test against Bangladesh starting June 17 in Galle.There’s a distinct feeling of a changing of the guard about the 18-man squad announced on Sunday, with this being Angelo Mathews’ final Test series and Dimuth Karunaratne too no longer around following his retirement earlier this year.Of the six uncapped players, opening batter Lahiru Udara, 31, and spin-bowling allrounder Sonal Dinusha, 24, are carry-overs from Sri Lanka’s last tour against Australia. Udara is primed to step in to the Karunaratne-shaped hole at the top of the order, having had sustained domestic success over several years now – though, notably, it was Oshada Fernando who got the nod in Sri Lanka’s most recent Test.Related

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Sadeera Samarawickrama, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nishan Peries and Vishwa Fernando all missed the cut. There was also no room for Nishan Madushka, who had opened the innings – and impressed – for large parts of 2023 and 2024, but has since been overlooked following a tough tour of England last year.Dinusha, who bowls slow left-arm spin and struck an unbeaten 104 against Afghanistan A in his most recent first-class innings, meanwhile is among those who Sri Lanka will be eyeing as potential replacements for Mathews going forward. His all-round exploits might give him an edge, but the exciting pair of Pasindu Sooriyabandara, 25, and Pavan Rathnayake, 22, are arguably the more accomplished batters.Sri Lanka’s batting order, however, largely picks itself right now. Pathum Nissanka, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis and Kusal Mendis are guaranteed to make up six of the top seven, with Oshada and Udara vying for the other opening berth.On the spin-bowling front, there’s a mix of new and old. Akila Dananjaya returns to the Test fold and if picked could be poised to play his first Test in nearly six years. His selection has come about as a direct result of his recent form in domestic cricket, where he’s grabbed 37 wickets in his last five first class games, topping the wickets charts in the National Super League four-day Tournament.But there could be a debut for the ambidextrous Tharindu Rathnayake in the offing as well. The 29-year-old is another who has impressed domestically and with Sri Lanka A. His left-arm spin is his strong suit, but he’s flat and accurate with his right-arm off breaks as well. Along with his handiness with the bat, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Sri Lanka opt for Ratnayake over Dananjaya.Isitha Wijesundara is final new face in the squad, a late inclusion in place of Lahiru Kumara who suffered an undisclosed injury in training. Asitha Fernando will lead the line, while Kasun Rajitha has earned a recall following his recent county stint with Essex. Milan Rathnayake rounds out the selections.Sri Lanka squad: Dhananjaya de Silva (capt), Pathum Nissanka, Oshada Fernando, Lahiru Udara, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Pavan Rathnayake, Prabath Jayasuriya, Tharindu Rathnayake, Akila Dananjaya, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Kasun Rajitha, Isitha Wijesundara

Tottenham Hotspur have been lucky enough to have numerous top-level attacking talents on their hands over the last couple of years – often handing the supporters moments to cherish forever.

Heung-min Son is just one player who falls into such a category, with the South Korean forward a talent who often managed to produce the goods within the final third.

The winger scored a total of 173 goals for the Lilywhites, a tally which puts him fourth in the club’s record books, with an impressive chunk coming against local rivals, Arsenal.

He scored nine times in his 22 appearances against the Gunners, the third most of any side he’s faced in his career – further highlighting his impact in the North London Derby.

However, despite his impact for Spurs, he was unable to better one player who has often proved to be a thorn in the side of the club in the meetings against them.

Bukayo Saka’s form against Spurs

After his breakthrough in 2020, Arsenal star Bukayo Saka has featured against Spurs on ten separate occasions, subsequently being on the winning side in 60% of the outings.

The Englishman has scored five times against the Lilywhites, averaging a goal every other game and often popping up and finding the net in key moments of derby encounters.

He may not have scored in any of the clashes last season, but he did register the assist for Gabriel’s second-half winner, with Mikel Arteta’s side once again claiming bragging rights.

Saka has now registered 25 or more combined goals and assists in each of his last three seasons, further highlighting the top-level talent he possesses, all despite being just 24 years of age.

Given the levels he’s produced, there’s no denying the Lilywhites faithful must wish they had a player of his calibre, but it’s safe to say stars such as the winger would now cost a pretty penny.

However, boss Thomas Frank shouldn’t worry, with the Dane already having his very own version of the Englishman within his ranks at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The Spurs star who’s Frank’s own Saka

Spurs’ 2024/25 campaign was a topsy-turvy one to say the least, with huge highs being achieved all whilst failing to deliver in other competitions under Ange Postecoglou.

The Aussie ended their 17-year wait for a trophy with their Europa League triumph, but ultimately, it glossed over the cracks that appeared in the Premier League.

He could only achieve a 17th-placed finish in England’s top-flight, subsequently suffering 22 defeats in the process – something which would cost him his job in North London.

Frank was appointed as the manager to pick up the pieces, a task he’s seamlessly taken to immediately, as seen by his tally of just one loss in his opening nine competitive outings.

While he’s added the likes of Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons to his ranks this summer, he already had his answer to Saka within his ranks in North London.

Dejan Kulusevski is a player who’s yet to feature under the Dane due to injury, but there’s no denying that the attacker will have a huge role to play upon his return in the months ahead.

The Swede, who has been dubbed “phenomenal” by one creator, is currently sidelined with a knee injury, but did manage to star on a consistent basis in 2024/25 before he went under the knife to fix the recurring issue.

He registered 10 goals and 11 assists across all competitions last campaign, ending the year as one of the Lilywhites’ most creative outlets within attacking areas.

Such is the level of his performances last year, he was dubbed as a similar player to Saka by FBref, further highlighting how impressive he was under Postecoglou.

When comparing their respective figures, Kulusevski managed to outperform the Arsenal star in various key areas, showcasing the huge amount of quality he possesses.

The table highlights the depth of areas he managed to outclass Saka, with his return to fitness undoubtedly a huge boost to Frank and the Spurs fanbase.

Games played

32

25

Goals & assists

11

16

Shot on target accuracy

36%

32%

Goals per shot on target

0.4

0.2

Passes into final third

2.3

0.7

Passes into opposition box

2.1

1.9

Carries into final third

2.5

1.6

Aerials won

40%

33%

It’s unclear what level of fitness he will possess after such a long injury layoff, but when he gets fully firing, the Swede will add another dimension to the club’s potent frontline.

If he can replicate or better his numbers from last year, there’s no reason as to why the forward can’t help Frank make his first season in North London one to remember.

Bigger talent than Vuskovic: Spurs' "absolute jewel" could be the new Son

While Luka Vušković is impressing on loan at HSV, Tottenham have struck gold on an “absolute jewel” who could become Spurs’ new Son Heung-min.

1 ByBen Gray Oct 10, 2025

Cesc Fabregas showed just how much his side’s stunning win over Juventus meant to him as cameras captured the Como boss delivering a passionate post-match speech to his players on the pitch. The Arsenal and Chelsea icon, who has guided the Serie A underdogs to sixth place, was visibly emotional as he told his players that he is “f*cking proud” of them.

• Como pull off major upset against Juventus

  Como claimed one of their most memorable victories in decades, defeating Italian heavyweights Juventus 2-0 in front of a jubilant Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia crowd. Marc-Oliver Kempf’s early volley and Nico Paz’s dazzling solo strike secured a result that lifted Fabregas’s side above Juve in the Serie A table. The triumph marked Como’s first league win over the Bianconeri in 73 years, underlining the club’s remarkable resurgence.

  After the game, Fabregas huddled together with his players and staff on the field and gave a rousing team talk to reiterate how “proud” he was of his side as they look to challenge for European football in what is only their second season in the top flight.

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• Watch Fabregas' passionate speech

• Como's meteoric rise and Fabregas' role in it

  The result was another milestone in a dream 2025-26 campaign for Como, who continue to defy expectations in their second season back in Serie A. Under Fabregas’s full-time management, the team has developed a reputation for attacking football, dictated by a lot of flair but also stability in the ranks. Central to their success has been 21-year-old Nico Paz, who now has four goals and four assists in seven games -meaning he has contributed to eight of Como’s nine league strikes so far this season.

  Speaking about Paz after the win over Juventus, Fabregas told the media: “I thank [Arsene Wenger] because at 16 he believed in me, just as I believe in Nico Paz, who is a champion. I’m very confident about his future because I can recognise when a player has the mindset to become a top player. If he continues like this, he can go wherever he wants.”

  Fabregas’s tactical philosophy, honed under Wenger, Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho, has given Como a distinctive identity built on possession play and relentless intensity. His leadership has also proved crucial off the field, attracting promising young players and reenergising a fanbase that has endured decades of hardship. From once languishing in Serie D to defeating one of Italy’s most decorated clubs, Como’s journey has been a testament to ambition and belief.

  The club’s transformation is also tied to their ownership by Indonesia’s Djarum Group, which stabilised finances and invested smartly in infrastructure and scouting. Fabregas’s arrival accelerated that vision – his global experience, coaching nous, and charisma uniting the project. The win against Juventus was not just three points; it was a symbolic statement that Como’s rise is no fluke, and that the club now belongs among Italy’s elite.

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  Como look to continue on upward trajectory

  Como will look to build on their historic victory when they take on Parma at Ennio Tardini Stadium, as Fabregas’s men aim to continue their strong domestic form. The Lariani sit sixth in the Serie A table, level on points with fifth-placed Bologna but ahead of Juventus on goal difference. Fabregas, however, is likely to keep his players grounded, insisting that consistency and humility must remain central to their progress.

  With Paz in sublime form and the squad visibly buying into their coach’s philosophy, the club’s top-half aspirations appear increasingly realistic. For Fabregas, each passing week further cements his reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young managers.

Naqvi who has been PCB chair since February 2024 said that he was “deeply honoured” by the appointment

Danyal Rasool03-Apr-2025

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi is now president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), having formally assumed charge from Sri Lanka’s Shammi Silva. Naqvi, who was elected PCB chairman in February 2024, said he was “deeply honoured” by the appointment.”Asia remains the heartbeat of world cricket, and I am committed to working with all member boards to accelerate the game’s growth and global influence,” Naqvi said in a statement. “Together, we will unlock new opportunities, foster greater collaboration, and take Asian cricket to unprecedented heights. I also extend my sincere thanks to the outgoing ACC President for his leadership and contributions to the ACC during his tenure.”Silva assumed charge only three months ago in December 2024, taking over the role when Jay Shah quit the presidency to take up his position as ICC chair. “It has been a privilege to serve as President of the Asian Cricket Council,” Silva said. “The steadfast commitment of our member boards working together has been pivotal in elevating ACC’s stature across the region.” Silva further thanked Shah and expressed confidence in Naqvi’s “capable leadership”.Related

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For Naqvi, it adds another position to an already crowded list of responsibilities. Aside from being PCB chairman, he also serves as Pakistan’s interior minister. He was at the helm when Pakistan took a more forceful position in an attempt to assert the PCB’s right to host the entirety of the 2025 Champions Trophy, awarded to Pakistan, within the country.Ultimately, when the BCCI did not send its team to Pakistan, the PCB and the BCCI worked out a deal which would see all matches involving India in an event hosted in Pakistan being played at a neutral venue, and in return, all matches involving Pakistan in an event hosted by India played at a neutral venue.The most pressing issue for Naqvi in his capacity as ACC president will involve the venue of the T20 Asia Cup later this year. India are the official hosts, but the PCB is expected to demand another venue for Pakistan’s matches.There is precedent for that at the ACC level. When, under Shah’s presidency, Pakistan hosted the tournament in 2023, Sri Lanka was added as the secondary venue for the latter part of the tournament owing to India’s refusal to visit Pakistan.

Newcastle United are in the market for late attacking reinforcements and could now be set to bring in both Yoane Wissa and an additional forward in the midst of Alexander Isak’s likely departure.

Isak set to depart Newcastle United as Magpies seek alternatives

Deadline Day is finally here, and Alexander Isak is finally set to leave Newcastle United for Liverpool, bringing the curtain down on the story of the summer window.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed on X that the Sweden international is now set for a medical ahead of a £130 million move to Anfield, enabling Eddie Howe and PIF the chance to seek out a late replacement.

Of course, new Newcastle United striker Nick Woltemade could fit that mould after signing on the dotted line from Stuttgart. However, he is unlikely to be the only arrival before tonight’s close of play.

Late on, Roma striker Artem Dovbyk has emerged as a loan target for the Magpies, in a deal that could take the form of an initial season-long agreement with an option to buy at around £30 million.

Newcastle submitted "verbal" £45m bid to sign striker target for Howe

The Magpies could end up doing some late business.

1 BySean Markus Clifford Sep 1, 2025

Finalising deals at this late stage is always a race against time, but if Newcastle want to compete with their Premier League rivals after an underwhelming start to the campaign, they don’t have much of a choice.

Nevertheless, they won’t wait around for targets, something that latest developments lend credence to as Howe desperately scours the market for a striker.

Newcastle agree Wissa deal and chasing Randal Kolo Muani

According to Sacha Tavolieri on X, Newcastle are eyeing Paris Saint-Germain forward Randal Kolo Muani, who has emerged as an 11th-hour target along with Wissa.

Interestingly, while Tavolieri reports he could join instead of the Congolese striker, the Magpies appear primed to wrap up a deal for the Brentford star after Fabrizio Romano dropped his patented “here we go” on Monday morning – whether both deals are viable this late in the window remains to be seen.

Earning around £150,000 per week, Kolo Muani would be an expensive import. Still, his salary is well within PIF’s financial capabilities and wouldn’t present a major issue in the final hours of the window, with the sale of Isak affording some extra wiggle room to bring in two attackers on deadline day.

Either way, the clock is ticking as Newcastle look to make a play for his signature, indeed making this saga one to watch in the final hours of the window.

Sheffield Wednesday have rejected “multi-million pound” offers from two big clubs this summer, according to reliable journalist Miguel Delaney.

Pedersen "very proud" after Sheffield Wednesday win

An extremely young and depleted Owls side beat Bolton Wanderers away on penalties in midweek, reaching the second round of the EFL Cup in the process. New manager Henrik Pedersen had nothing but praise for his Wednesday players after the victory, speaking of his pride at the result.

“I’m very, very proud. We had many academy boys in the team, many debutants too. Before the game we spoke and said yes, we have a very young team but also with some good senior players around. But the way they performed I am very proud of them.

“I think there are many things with this performance, we were much more aggressive in our pressing, we won more balls high up the pitch and we also had energy to play some transitions, especially in the first half.

“We kept coming back from the draw and didn’t stay in the situation, it was all about the next action, the next action and the boys showed each time Bolton scored, we went up quickly and made a new goal more or less every time.

“They stayed together, kept going and this belief and confidence I really liked to see the young guys do this. Another aspect for me was seeing how happy the senior players were. You could see they were all together.”

Wednesday find themselves in a hugely worrying situation currently, with the future of the club under threat because of financial woes, but despite this, a bid for a player has been rejected.

Sheffield Wednesday reject offers for "excellent" hero

According to Delaney on X, Sheffield Wednesday have turned down “multi-million pound” bids for goalkeeper Pierce Charles from both Rangers and West Ham, with “bafflement” from some at the decision:

“Sheffield Wednesday reject multi-million pound bids from West Ham and Rangers for Pierce Charles, leading to bafflement from some within the club given their financial situation.”

Charles is a big player for Wednesday, so there is some sense in them wanting to keep him, but there will surely be some looking at the bigger picture and wondering if he should be moved on.

The the 20-year-old is among the Owls’ most prized assets currently, being hailed as “excellent” by Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill, which means they can earn millions for him, as Rangers and West Ham have shown.

Unless those at Wednesday are confident about the club’s financial issues suddenly easing, they should consider accepting the next bid that arrives for Charles.

It would be a huge shame to lose such a talented young player with a bright future in the game, but if his sale helps save the club, that clearly takes precedence.

Myles Lewis-Skelly is reportedly "working hard with Arsenal coach" to improve two key weaknesses after losing his starting spot to Riccardo Calafiori. The teenage academy graduate had been thrown into the deep end during an injury crisis, cementing himself as Mikel Arteta’s surprise first-choice left-back. He racked up 15 league starts in the second half of last season, dazzled in the Champions League quarter-finals by keeping Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo quiet, and even scored on his England debut under Thomas Tuchel.

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  But football can be brutal. Fast-forward to now, and the 18-year-old finds himself demoted to the bench, his role reduced to late cameos while Calafiori has stormed ahead in the pecking order. On average, the Italian attempts more passes into the box (1.74 vs 1.18), swings in more open-play crosses (1.01 vs 0.66), and delivers far more attacking threat in front of goal, from total shots (0.91 vs 0.2) to efforts on target (0.55 vs 0.07). Even in progressive play, the Italian averages 13.17 forward passes per game, compared to Lewis-Skelly’s 10.38.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  According to recognising the need to develop his attacking instincts, new assistant coach Gabriel Heinze has taken Lewis-Skelly under his wing. Sessions have been heavily focused on crossing accuracy and how best to exploit attacking zones when Arsenal dominate possession.

  The youngster has responded well, putting in extra hours after training and working closely with the coaching staff to close the gap to Calafiori. Those at London Colney believe the teenager is still far ahead of schedule, having jumped from the Under-21s to Champions League knockout football in less than a year.

• TELL ME MORE

  While Arsenal minutes are proving harder to come by, Thomas Tuchel has shown no hesitation in trusting Lewis-Skelly for England. He started and impressed in the Three Lions’ 2-0 World Cup qualifier win over Andorra, showing the composure and fearlessness that made him such a sensation in his debut year.

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• DID YOU KNOW?

  Lewis-Skelly is still a rock defensively, winning more duels per game last season (6.04) than established stars Gabriel Magalhaes, William Saliba, Jurrien Timber and even Calafiori himself. His relentless tackling, tireless energy and versatility, since he was raised as a midfielder before being shifted to full-back, mark him out as one of Arsenal’s brightest prospects. Club insiders insist his long-term place is secure, pointing to the five-year deal he signed earlier this year.

This summer has to be one of Chelsea’s best in a very long time.

On the pitch, Enzo Maresca has led his men to Club World Cup glory, and off the pitch, they’ve been incredibly active in the transfer market.

The likes of Liam Delap, Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens have all joined and improved the side, and yet the Blues continue to be linked with some of the most exciting players in the world, like Hugo Ekitiké.

In fact, one of the West Londoners’ current players is being linked with an exit, an exit that could free up space to sign the £85m Frenchman, although with Newcastle United and Liverpool both reportedly keen, they will have to move quickly.

Why so many teams want Ekitike

It was earlier this week that news of Newcastle’s interest in Ekitike began to gather pace, and then yesterday afternoon, more reports emerged claiming Liverpool were also looking at him as an alternative to an even more ambitious deal for Alexander Isak.

So are three of the biggest clubs in the Premier League all interested in signing the Eintracht Frankfurt forward this summer?

Well, simply put, he proved himself to be a lean, mean output machine in Germany last season and the sort of player who could help all three sides achieve their goals next season.

For example, in 48 appearances last season, totalling 3644 minutes, the prolific Reims-born forward scored a whopping 22 goals and provided 12 assists to boot.

That means the former Paris Saint-Germain prospect averaged a goal involvement every 1.41 games, or every 107.17 minutes – talk about world-class.

Moreover, that level of output would be incredible for a striker at the very peak of his career, but the Frenchman is nowhere near the peak, as he is still just 23 years old, and according to research carried out by The Athletic, he has another four years before he reaches it.

In other words, with the right coaching and the right team, we can expect his numbers to continue improving for some time, which is a scary yet exciting thought.

With all that said, due to his massive price tag and the hefty wages he’d probably demand, Chelsea would likely need to sell a player before moving for him, which, based on reports, they could do, and to a Premier League rival no less.

The star Chelsea could sell

With Delap and Pedro joining the side this summer and already impressing at the Club World Cup, it would make sense for Chelsea to consider selling a striker to facilitate room for Ekitike.

Transfer Focus

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

Therefore, the player in question who could well depart Stamford Bridge this summer is none other than Nicolas Jackson, who, according to Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth, is being monitored by several top sides, including Manchester United and Aston Villa.

In terms of the potential fee the Senegalese star could generate for the Blues, reports vary.

On Saturday morning, the Sun revealed that the club had placed a whopping £100m price tag on his head, but then later that same day, French journalist Nabil Djellit claimed that the West Londoners would be willing to let the player leave for around €70m, which converts to £61m.

Whatever the final price ends up being, it appears that Chelsea will make a sizable profit on the £32m they paid for the “unbelievable” forward, as dubbed by Peter Crouch, two years ago.

Moreover, it’d free up more funds to sign Ekitike, who would be a massive upgrade.

Jackson scored 13 goals and provided six assists in 37 appearances, totalling 2535 minutes last season, which comes out to an average of 1.94 goal involvements per match or one every 133.42 minutes.

That is not a bad rate of return by any means, but it does pale in comparison to what the Frankfurt star was able to produce last season.

Ultimately, Jackson is a good player, but if selling him this summer allows the club to sign Ekitike, then Chelsea should be doing all they can to drum up even more interest, even if the fee ends up closer to £60m than £100m.

Chelsea in talks to sign £40m "superstar" who'd brilliantly replace Madueke

With Noni Madueke on his way to Arsenal for £52m, Chelsea remain “in contact” to sign one of the Premier League’s “brightest young talents” for £40m.

1

By
Ben Gray

Jul 15, 2025

The signing of Bryan Mbeumo was finally announced earlier this week, handing Manchester United the added attacking threat they’ve been craving.

Whilst a deal may have cost £71m, a pretty expensive figure for the Brentford star, it could prove to be a bargain should he replicate his form from last season.

The 25-year-old managed to register 27 combined goals and assists in the Premier League, a tally that was nine more than the Red Devils’ highest contributor, Bruno Fernandes.

He will be joined in the final third by Matheus Cunha, but it’s unlikely that the pair will be the only attacking additions during the current summer transfer window.

Numerous other players have been linked with a move to Old Trafford during the off-season, strengthening the options currently at Ruben Amorim’s disposal.

The latest on United’s hunt for new attacking options

In recent days, Benjamin Sesko has reappeared on United’s shortlist, unsurprisingly so given Viktor Gyokeres’ pending move to join Arsenal after rejecting a reunion with former boss Amorim.

The Red Devils could even be about to prepare an opening offer for the 22-year-old’s signature after he netted 21 goals across all competitions throughout 2024/25.

However, he’s not the only attacker currently on their radar, with Bologna forward Riccardo Orsolini also in their sights this summer, according to Il Resto del Carlino.

They claim that the Red Devils have already made a direct call to the Serie A outfit over the availability of the 28-year-old star during the current window.

It also states that his current employers are preparing a new contract for the Italian, after he notched 17 goals and four assists across all competitions last time around.

Reports from earlier in the window suggested that he could be worth around £22m if he moves on this summer.

Why United’s latest target would be another Mbeumo

As previously mentioned, a deal to sign Mbeumo this window has generated excitement amongst the fanbase, understandably so given his form in England’s top-flight.

The Cameroonian will be entering the prime years of his career at Old Trafford after his big-money move, and also able to play a key role in any revival during the Amorim era.

The 40-year-old will be hoping that he can integrate the forward into the side and mould him into the perfect number ten in his current 3-4-2-1 system.

Given the mammoth transfer fee, it’s a surprise to no one that Mbeumo will have a lot of pressure on his shoulders to succeed, even more so given the club’s lowly league finish last campaign.

However, he could be aided in any attempts with a potential move for Orsolini, with the Bologna attacker possessing a very similar skillset to that of Mbeumo.

The Italian is also left-footed and likes to cut inside onto his stronger foot off the right, having huge success with such a technique, as seen by his goal tally from last season.

However, Orsolini, who’s been labelled “sensational” by talent scout Antonio Mango, has also produced numerous incredible underlying stats which have helped him in the final third as of late.

Riccardo Orsolini’s stats for Bologna in Serie A (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

30

Goals & assists

19

Shots on target

1.2

Chances created

1.4

Successful dribbles

1.6

Tackles won

81%

Duels success rate

52%

Aerials won

55%

Stats via FotMob

In Serie A throughout 2024/25, he notched 1.4 chances created, along with 1.6 successful dribbles per 90, subsequently having the tools to provide Mbeumo with chances within attacking areas.

Despite his excellent attacking figures, he also won 81% of the tackles he entered, whilst coming out on top in 52% of duels, potentially being the perfect wing-back for Amorim if needed.

The attacker’s dominance also didn’t stop there, notching 1.2 shots on target per 90 and 55% of aerials won, with both tallies ranking him within the top 10% of all players in the division.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the 28-year-old would cost this summer, it’s evident that he has the tools needed to thrive within the Premier League.

He would offer needed depth in multiple key areas of the pitch, whilst also having the ability to aid Mbeumo and potentially work with him to catapult the club to glory in the years ahead.

Related He's perfect for Bruno: Man Utd "very close" to agreement to sign £25m star

Manchester United appear to be edging ever closer to their next addition of the summer window.

Posts 1 ByEthan Lamb Jul 24, 2025

Arsenal have been told exactly what it will take for Benjamin Sesko to leave RB Leipzig this summer, as his agent speaks out about reports linking his client with a move away from the Red Bull Arena.

Arsenal offered 21-goal striker who's a "priority signing" for Tottenham

The north London clubs could go head-to-head.

2 ByEmilio Galantini Jun 19, 2025

Sesko has just finished a career-best Bundesliga campaign, bagging 21 goals in all competitions, but he couldn’t quite guide Leipzig to a European spot – with the Germans missing out on a place in the Conference League, Europa League and Champions League.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

It is the first time Leipzig haven’t qualified for Europe since their top-flight arrival in 2016, and this will surely get Sesko thinking about his immediate future as Arsenal reportedly circle to offer him a route out.

The Slovenia international is a top target for Gunners manager Mikel Arteta, who’s been chasing his signature for 12 months.

Arsenal had a proposal rejected for Sesko last summer, who instead put pen to paper on a contract extension to remain at Leipzig and further his development, with the north Londoners also having an attempt rebuffed in January (Ben Jacobs).

They’re now trying to make it ‘third-time-lucky’ with another move for Sesko, and “concrete talks” have been taking place since late May (Florian Plettenberg). However, as things stand, Sky Germany are reporting that Arsenal are unwilling to match Leipzig’s financial demands for the centre-forward.

With plenty of work still to do, the 22-year-old’s own representative, Elvis Basanovic, has now provided an update on his client’s future in an interview with GiveMeSport this week.

Arsenal told key transfer condition by Benjamin Sesko's agent

Speaking to GMS, Basanovic has revealed the key condition for Sesko to depart Leipzig before summer deadline day on September 1.

The agent claims he’ll only leave Leipzig for a “special” new destination, refusing to clarify whether Arsenal fall into this category. When asked if the plan for Sesko is to find a new club, Basanovic said: “Well, his numbers at his age compared to some strikers with already great careers at his age are confirming my words.

“He will move from RB Leipzig only when we recognise a special club, a special project with a special coach.”

More worryingly for Arteta, the intermediary even suggested that Sesko could stay at Leipzig for years if they deem it the right call.

“It can be next week, or next year, or in 3 years,” Basanovic continued.

“Even if there may be – or will be – a strong desire of the player to move to a certain club, we will never force or blackmail RB Leipzig. I believe this is not the right way, because the way you actually exit from the club shows your values. Values that you are bringing into a new club.

“I can understand in very big transfers, there are a lot of different interests, but no matter what, I believe in the football world ‘there’ should be more respect. So that’s why we do things in the right way, or we don’t do them. It’s very simple, even maybe in the media it looks very complicated.”