Premier League

Paris Saint-Germain have been linked with an approach for leading Manchester United and Liverpool target Yan Diomande. The RB Leipzig forward is expected to cost upwards of $117.7 million (£86.5 million, €100 million) but PSG have the funds to complete such a move should they cement their interest. (Source: Fichajes)

Manchester United are tracking the development of AC Milan defender Strahinja Pavlović, who is expected to cost around $58.9 million (£43.3 million, €50 million) (Source: Gazzetta dello Sport)

Liverpool have no intention of signing a first-choice goalkeeper to replace Alisson should he join Juventus this summer, with Giorgi Mamardashvili given the chance to fill the Brazilian’s large gloves. (Source: Ben Jacobs)

Arsenal and Chelsea are both thought to be interested in Como’s talented, towering young defender Jacobo Ramón. However, Real Madrid’s bargain buyback clause—worth just $9.4 million (£6.9 million, €8 million)—could complicate any pursuit. (Source: SportsBoom)

The highly rated Roma right back Wesley is reportedly on Liverpool’s radar this summer. There is expected to be stiff competition from Manchester City. (Source: CaughtOffside)

Instead of Julián Alvarez, Barcelona consider Chelsea striker João Pedro to be the best player to work in tandem with Lamine Yamal. (Source: El Nacional)

Barcelona’s pursuit of Pedro is set to be held up by the prohibitive price tag set by Chelsea for their top scorer. (Source: Fichajes)

Bournemouth are concerned they may not be able to hang onto their Premier League record breaker Eli Junior Kroupi amid interest from a swollen glut of Champions League clubs, including—but not limited to—Arsenal, Barcelona and Manchester City. (Source: BBC Sport)

Rúben Dias has been tipped to leave Manchester City this summer, with freshly crowned Italian champions Inter Milan upheld as an inviting landing spot. (Source: Fichajes)

Roma’s impish attacking midfielder Matías Soulé has found himself at the center of a three-way tussle between Premier League clubs this summer. Aston Villa are expected to have the edge over Brighton and Bournemouth. (Source: SportsBoom)

Chelsea are poised to close a $47.1 million (£34.6 million, €40 million) deal for Bologna forward Jonathan Rowe, who has impressed in Serie A since spectacularly falling out of favor in Marseille following a bust-up with his teammate Adrien Rabiot. (Source: Fichajes)

La Liga

José Mourinho’s first transfer demand once he takes over at Real Madrid is expected to be a push for his star center back at Benfica, António Silva. (Source: Fichajes)

Real Madrid are preparing an initial offer of $176.6 million (£129.8 million, €150 million) for Michael Olise, however, Bayern Munich are expected to reject any bid below $235 million. (Source: Fichajes)

Rather than Olise, Mourinho is expected to believe a move for Juventus forward Kenan Yıldız is more viable, while Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli is another surprise contender. (Source: El Nacional)

PSG are set to target Atlético Madrid’s sought-after star Julián Alvarez this summer. Arsenal, Liverpool and Barcelona have all been linked with the forward but PSG are thought to have the ultimate trump card: the allure of working with Luis Enrique. (Source: AS)

Beyond the appeal of Enrique, PSG are also expected to slap $176.6 million (£129.8 million, €150 million) on the table to prise Alvarez away from Atlético. (Source: Fichajes)

Mourinho has set seven Real Madrid players aside as “untouchable” this summer. Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham find their way onto this no-sell list but Vinicius Junior is conspicuous by his absence. (Source: El Nacional)

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Mourinho Plots Arsenal Raid for Real Madrid; $175 Million Olise Offer.

West Ham thought they had snatched a late point against Premier League leaders Arsenal, thus denting the Gunners’ title hopes, when Callum Wilson thumped home after a set-piece melee.

However, Wilson’s strike was ruled out following a lengthy VAR review, as David Raya was deemed to have been fouled by West Ham’s Pablo from the initial corner. The significance of the decision drew widespread debate, with plenty falling on either side of the referendum.

While De Zerbi had no issue with the reversal of Chris Kavanagh’s on-field call, he did suggest that Jarred Gillett’s “frenetic” officiating on Monday night may have been influenced by the drama.

VAR Overturn “200% Correct“

De Zerbi was the most agitated he’s been on the touchline since taking the Tottenham job, as his team toiled against a physical Leeds team and failed to make the most of a huge opportunity.

The 1–1 draw leaves them two points clear of the Hammers with two games remaining, and their relegation rivals can at least temporarily move to a position of safety by beating Newcastle United at St. James’ Park on Saturday before Spurs next play on Tuesday.

De Zerbi admitted his team didn’t play well, but he also wasn’t impressed by Gillett’s officiating.

“The first minute until the end of the game, the referee went to me, ‘if you go out, yellow card,’ and I think they were not calm today,” he told reporters. The Italian was booked late in the game for entering the field, having been warned in the first half for leaving his technical area.

“Maybe they suffered the pressure of the West Ham-Arsenal game and VAR. For sure, we suffered the pressure for the speed of the ball, for the order on the pitch and we didn’t play with patience.

“Frenetic and we were rushed, but also the referee was not calm,” he added.

And while he wasn’t directly asked about the incident, unrelentingly discussed in the soccer world since it occurred, given its potential ramifications, De Zerbi weighed in: “I can’t understand the polemic because it was a foul, 200%, not 100%, if you want to talk about football.”

The Tottenham boss refused to get lured into a discussion about the decisions that went against Spurs on Monday night, notably Mathys Tel’s penalty giveaway and the spot-kick they weren’t awarded for Lukas Nmecha’s challenge on James Maddison.

Asked about the latter incident specifically, De Zerbi replied: “No, I don’t want to come inside the polemic. I didn’t see. I didn’t watch again. I don’t know."

2025–26 Premier League Relegation Picture

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as ‘I Can’t Understand’—Tottenham Boss Gives Definitive Response to Arsenal VAR Drama.

As Khan pointed out, the taxpayers of the entire city stand to face a cumulative bill of an extra £2.5 million ($3.4 million) should West Ham get relegated due the added costs of their London Stadium hosting Championship fixtures.

With two games of the campaign remaining, the Premier League relegation battle has boiled down to a two-way duel between Spurs and West Ham. While the cost of demotion for Tottenham could exceed $300 million for the club’s billionaire owners, a drop out of the division for the Hammers would hurt the pocket of regular Londoners, according to Khan.

“What I’d say to Londoners who don’t support Spurs is you should probably be cheering on West Ham,” the mayor, who was convinced to support Liverpool after being subjected to racist abuse by fans of multiple capital clubs during his youth, told The Standard.

“The previous mayor, Boris Johnson, did the worst deal that can be imaginable,” Khan explained when referring to the agreement struck between West Ham and the government to rent out the London Stadium in 2016.

“As far as West Ham are concerned, [it’s] a deal of the century where he basically gave them rent free, this amazing stadium for 100 years. Now if West Ham are relegated, we, the taxpayers, we City Hall, could lose up to £2.5 million a year.

“So what I say to Londoners who don’t support Spurs is you should probably be cheering on West Ham, because the taxpayer will lose out if West Ham go down.”

The Numbers Behind West Ham’s Potential Relegation

West Ham’s home ground, formerly known as the Olympic Stadium which was opened for the summer Games in 2012, is owned by the Greater London Authority (GLA), which is the responsibility of mayor Khan.

In the deal brokered by Boris Johnson—a fact that Khan was keen to get across given he sits on the opposite side of the political divide—West Ham pay £4.4 million per year to rent the stadium, with the rest of the costs to host each fixture taken up by GLA, i.e. the London taxpayer.

Labour assembly member Bassam Mahfouz revealed to The Standard earlier this season that West Ham’s rent will halve should they drop into the Championship—that’s already £2.2 million off the table. Furthermore, there are 23 home fixtures for clubs in England’s second tier compared to 19 in the Premier League, forcing the expenditure which goes on the likes of stewarding to rise.

“It’s a financial fiasco so badly negotiated it could only be described as an own goal,” Mahfouz seethed.

The individual cost for each taxpayer amounts to less than 50 pence—a figure which doesn’t quite grab the attention like £2.5 million. However, it is a very real problem for the government, who warned that they “would need to find additional support” to plug this yawning hole in the budget.

READ THE LATEST PREMIER LEAGUE NEWS, ANALYSIS AND INSIGHT FROM SI FC

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as The 2.5 Million Reasons Why Arsenal, Chelsea Fans Are Rooting for Tottenham’s Relegation.

But that’s not how it went.

Georginio Rutter did score in the 95th minute of Roberto De Zerbi’s first home game and Tel did swiftly cancel out his crisp opener against Leeds United on Monday night with a bizarre penalty concession leapt upon by Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Fortunately for Spurs, West Ham have endured their own fine-margin fumbles. The dramatic defeat to Arsenal on Sunday ensured that the Premier League relegation battle has been reduced to a straight shootout between these two capital foes. With just a pair of matches remaining, Opta’s supercomputer has offered up its best guess at the outcome of this duel.

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Final Premier League Standings

“It’s going to be tough,” Nuno Espírito Santo admitted when reflecting on West Ham’s chances of survival after Sunday’s bitter reverse against Arsenal. Tough, but not yet impossible. The Hammers are given an 80.46% chance of relegation by Opta’s supercomputer, tumbling out of the division in four out of five scenarios.

Spurs are considerable favorites to keep their head above water but only two points are expected to separate the two sides, theoretically taking this relegation battle down to the final day. De Zerbi would expect nothing less: “It will be tough until the last minute against Everton,” he warned after getting a firm grasp of just how mentally fragile his roster is.

Tottenham could technically wrap it up before that final Sunday in May. Should West Ham fail to defeat Newcastle United at St. James’ Park this weekend, Spurs would mathematically guarantee their survival with a win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, May 19.

West Ham, Tottenham’s Remaining Fixtures

As wretched as Chelsea have been recently, it would be incredibly surprising to see them roll over against their fierce London rivals on home turf. Spurs have recorded just one win at Stamford Bridge in the last 36 years. Danny Drinkwater was on the Chelsea roster which last lost a home game to Tottenham on April Fool’s Day 2018.

If De Zerbi is correct in his assumption that this race against relegation will come down to the final round of fixtures, Spurs can take comfort from their record against Everton. The Toffees have lost their last four trips to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium by an aggregate score of 9–1.

West Ham host Leeds at the same time on Sunday, May 24. Daniel Farke’s side proved on Monday that they won’t necessarily have their feet up for the rest of the season—De Zerbi is certainly hoping so. “Congratulations to Leeds,” the Italian boss tactfully mused, “they played a great game, they have to play the last game at West Ham and we’ve no doubt that they will play the same way.”

READ THE LATEST PREMIER LEAGUE NEWS, ANALYSIS AND INSIGHT FROM SI FC

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Supercomputer Predicts Premier League Relegation Battle After Tottenham, West Ham Stumble.

Premier League

Mohamed Salah wants to remain in Europe when he leaves Liverpool this summer, even though he knows he could earn more money moving to Saudi Arabia. (Source: The Sun)

Fenerbahçe have met with Salah’s representatives to present a three-year plan for the Egypt international. (Source: A Spor)

Manchester City are tracking Kylian Mbappé’s precarious situation at Real Madrid as they dream of uniting the Frenchman with star striker Erling Haaland. (Source: Fichajes)

Potentially leaving Man City could be another striker, Omar Marmoush, whose struggle for minutes has piqued the interest of Aston Villa. (Source: Football Insider)

Arsenal are interested in signing Real Madrid midfielder Arda Güler and could launch a bid of $106 million (€90 million, £78 million) for the Türkiye international. (Source: El Nacional)

Another Real Madrid midfielder, Aurélien Tchouaméni, is on Manchester United’s radar. The Red Devils are ready to try and strike a deal if he is allowed to leave the Bernabéu following his altercation with Federico Valverde. (Source: Manchester Evening News)

Chelsea, Newcastle United and Juventus are all considering a move for Al Hilal forward Darwin Núñez, who could be allowed to leave on a free transfer. However, suitors have been warned they will have to meet his significant wage demands. (Source: Football Insider)

Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara is set to be the subject of a transfer battle between Liverpool and Newcastle. (Source: L’Équipe)

Bournemouth are working to tie midfielder Alex Scott down to a new contract amid interest from Man Utd. (Source: GIVEMESPORT)

Arsenal have joined Chelsea and Liverpool in pursuit of Sporting CP winger Francisco Trincão. (Source: CaughtOffside)

West Ham United are prepared to demand a fee of $114 million (£84 million) for midfielder Mateus Fernandes, hoping to keep the Portugal international away from suitors like Man City and Man Utd. (Source: Football Insider)

La Liga

Barcelona are ready to offload Ferran Torres as part of their push to sign striker Julián Alvarez from Atlético Madrid. (Source: El Pais)

Real Madrid are considering listening to offers for midfielder Jude Bellingham to fund a squad rebuild this summer. A fee of over $118 million (€100 million, £87 million) would be demanded, with Liverpool working to put together such an offer. (Source: Fichajes)

However, there is no desire from inside Real Madrid to sell Kylian Mbappé. President Florentino Pérez plans to warn the Frenchman about his recent conduct but is keen to avoid any conflict with either Mbappé or his representatives. (Source: Defensa Central)

Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi dreams of playing for Barcelona and would prioritize a move to Camp Nou if he does leave the Cherries this summer. (Source: SPORT)

Álvaro Carreras is one of just four Real Madrid defenders who are seen as unsellable this summer. Antonio Rüdiger, Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold are all safe at the Bernabéu but the rest of the defensive unit could leave. (Source: AS)

READ THE LATEST TRANSFER RUMORS FROM THE PAST FEW DAYS

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Real Madrid Consider Bellingham Sale; Man City Eye Mbappe.

Had the on-pitch official not agreed with the advice dished out by his video assistant referee (VAR) Darren England, the Gunners would have been consigned to a 1–1 draw with West Ham United at the London Stadium. The gap to Manchester City would have stood at just three points, and Pep Guardiola’s side could have recaptured the division’s summit before Arsenal played again.

At the other end of the table, Callum Wilson’s disallowed goal would have taken the Hammers to the same points tally as Tottenham Hotspur on the other side of the drop zone while keeping Crystal Palace, Leeds United and Nottingham Forest mathematically in the relegation battle.

“You’re talking about a moment that can decide the history of two massive clubs that are fighting with their lives to achieve their objectives, and the pressure is huge,” Arteta surmised.

If just one VAR intervention had enough power to dramatically change the face of the entire division, think about the impact of all the calls across the whole season made by the officials in Stockley Park.

2025–26 Premier League Table So Far If There Was No VAR

Even if VAR had not been in use across the course of the 2025–26 campaign, Arsenal would still be top of the Premier League—but only just. The Gunners have won five points thanks to decisions made by distant officials and are yet to be cost any from these interventions.

Only one Manchester City fixture, by contrast, has been materially impacted by a VAR overturn. Back in January, Guardiola’s challengers were awarded a first-half penalty which Erling Haaland converted to take a 1–0 lead at home to Brighton & Hove Albion. Kaoru Mitoma’s second-half strike would have earned the visitors all three points rather than just one had the VAR not rightly spotted a blatant trip from Diego Gómez on Jérémy Doku. This has been a common theme for the Seagulls.

Brighton are the side to have suffered most at the clawing tentacles of VAR. “I always say VAR makes football more fair,” Fabian Hürzeler mused at the end of last season. His stance may have shifted this term.

The upwardly mobile South Coast side would be seven points better off in a hypothetical world without VAR, above Liverpool and Aston Villa inside the division’s top four. Brighton have seen their opponents awarded three penalties by VAR and were denied one themselves in a goalless draw with rivals Crystal Palace. Hürzeler’s side have also seen two potential equalizers chalked off by delayed (and correct) offside calls.

Tottenham Hotspur have been similarly hampered by VAR, in stark contrast to their north London rivals. The penalty which Leeds United were awarded to secure a point on Monday night was just the latest spot kick to go against Spurs. Newcastle United were also given a penalty by VAR which denied Tottenham all three points in December while the Lilywhites have twice had opportunities to score from 12 yards chalked off by Stockley Park in narrow defeats.

With these extra six points, Spurs would already be safe from relegation. Instead they head into the season’s final fortnight with their future very much in the balance.

English soccer’s two most successful sides, Manchester United and Liverpool, would both have the exact same points tallies regardless of VAR. Rather than a case of avoiding any controversial officiating, both sides would be denied as many wins as they would gain from a lack of VAR. Not that it feels like that to Arne Slot.

“I don’t think it’s a surprise to anyone this season that if there’s a VAR intervention or if there’s something that could be left or right [50-50] then the decision goes against us,” the Liverpool manager fumed after his side conceded a controversial goal at the hands of United’s Benjamin Šeško. “That has been the whole season, every single time the same.” Well, not quite every time.

Putting aside whether Slot deemed these decisions to be just or otherwise, Liverpool’s VAR fortune has actually turned in recent weeks. The Reds saw Brentford beat them in October with a free kick upgraded to a penalty by VAR, while one of Leeds United’s three goals in a 3–3 draw last December was another spot kick awarded from Stockley Park. However, against both Everton and Chelsea this spring, Liverpool have had VAR to thank for flagging offside goals that escaped the attention of the on-pitch assistant referees.

Arsenal’s VAR Fortune

Only Sunderland have gained more points thank to VAR interventions than Arsenal this season. The key calls have come in three games split across six months. The decision to disallow Wilson’s equalizer for the Hammers has been dissected to death and is widely considered to have been the right call. The same cannot be said for events in Arsenal’s 1–0 win over Everton in December.

Viktor Gyökeres’s first-half penalty fell into the “soft” category but was ultimately judged to be a fair award from the VAR. However, the Premier League’s official Key Match Incidents panel ruled that the Toffees were wrongly denied a spot kick of their own in the same game for a clumsy challenge by William Saliba on Thierno Barry.

Arsenal’s Season-Defining VAR Interventions

• Everton 0–1 Arsenal: Arsenal penalty awarded and scored
• Wolves 2–2 Arsenal: Arsenal goal given after offside review
• West Ham 0–1 Arsenal: West Ham goal disallowed for a foul

The decision to award Piero Hincapié’s effort against Wolverhampton Wanderers in February was less contentious—however, it could have been a hot topic in a VAR-less world as the on-pitch officials deemed an offside offense to have occurred. A swift review found that the fullback’s goal was legal, which came in handy when the hosts scored twice to snatch a share of the spoils. Without that VAR intervention, Arsenal would have emerged from Molineux with a defeat.

The Gunners have racked up five extra points thanks to these three VAR calls. Should both Arsenal and City win out across the remainder of the season, the Premier League title will be decided by just two points. Arteta may not be the only one to realize how “big” a referee’s job is.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as 2025–26 Premier League Table Without VAR: Arsenal Take Second-Biggest Hit.

Premier League

Chelsea have reignited their interest in Sporting CP winger Francisco Trincão. (Source: El Nacional)

Potentially departing Chelsea could be another winger, Estêvão. Liverpool have set their sights on the Brazilian as their preferred replacement for the departing Mohamed Salah. (Source: Fichajes)

Manchester United have reached an agreement over personal terms with Atalanta midfielder Éderson, who is open to moving to Old Trafford this summer. (Source: Sébastien Vidal)

Sporting CP are prepared to demand full payment of left back Maxi Araújo’s $94 million (€80 million, £69 million) release clause amid interest from Chelsea, Man Utd and Tottenham Hotspur. All three clubs have spoken with the defender’s agent. (Source: A BOLA)

Man Utd director Jason Wilcox has held meetings with officials from Nottingham Forest and Leicester City. Foxes winger Jeremy Monga is believed to be on their radar. (Source: Roundtable)

Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola is now interested in a move to Liverpool, whose pursuit of the Frenchman is growing with each passing day. (Source: Le10Sport)

Both Liverpool and Manchester City are chasing Lens center back Samson Baidoo, with a bidding war raising his price tag beyond the reach of fellow suitors Juventus. (Source: TuttoJuve)

West Ham United are confident that they will be able to fend off Man Utd’s interest in left back El Hadji Malick Diouf by demanding an enormous fee. (Source: Football Insider)

Arsenal, Man City and Tottenham all want Newcastle United right back Tino Livramento. The teams that miss out on the Englishman’s signature are expected to turn their attention to Roma’s Wesley. (Source: Calciomercato.it)

Bologna are concerned by Chelsea’s interest in winger Jonathan Rowe, who could be tempted by a return to England if the Blues make a bid of around $45 million (€38 million, £33 million). (Source: Gazzetta dello Sport)

Aston Villa are not expected to pursue a permanent deal for on-loan midfielder Douglas Luiz from Juventus. (Source: Calciomercato)

Liverpool and Man Utd are both rivaling Atlético Madrid for the signature of Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder João Gomes, with Crystal Palace also ambitious suitors. (Source: CaughtOffside)

Juventus fullback Andrea Cambiaso could be made available for transfer this summer, piquing the interest of Arsenal, Liverpool and Man Utd. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Chelsea are one of four Premier League teams to have expressed an interest in Arsenal midfielder Ethan Nwaneri, who could leave the Emirates permanently when he returns from loan with Marseille. (Source: Mark Brus)

Chelsea are looking to sign AC Milan center back Strahinja Pavlović. While Milan do not want to sell, the Blues could try and use their interest in French defender Benoît Badiashile to their advantage. (Source: Calciomercato)

Man Utd have laughed off suggestions they could listen to offers for young winger Amad Diallo in the face of interest from former loan team Sunderland. (Source: TEAMtalk)

If West Ham are relegated from the Premier League, Leeds United expect to move to the front of the queue to sign Chelsea center back Axel Disasi after his impressive loan spell with the Hammers. (Source: Football Insider)

La Liga

Barcelona have reignited their push to sign Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli. (Source: Fichajes)

Regardless of what happens with Marcus Rashford, Barcelona will look for an exit for young winger Roony Bardghji. A loan would be preferable but a permanent sale could be considered if the right offer arrives. (Source: El Nacional)

Real Madrid are ready to block an exit for midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni despite his recent off-field controversy. Man Utd are “in love” with the Frenchman but will not be allowed to pursue a deal. (Source: Fabrizio Romano)

The priority for Real Madrid this summer will not be big-name signings, but rather restoring the culture that appears to have disappeared from the locker room this season. (Source: AS)

Agent Pini Zahavi is pushing Barcelona to explore a deal for Tottenham center back Luka Vušković, even though manager Hansi Flick does not see the defender as a priority. (Source: SPORT)

READ THE LATEST TRANSFER RUMORS FROM THE PAST FEW DAYS

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Man Utd Decide Amad Future; Liverpool’s Shock Estevao Bid.

With so much on the line for both teams, the contest eventually descended into one that neither team wanted the lose. Arsenal, riding high from their progression into the Champions League final, started brightly but were soon pegged back by the plucky Hammers.

The Premier League leaders subsequently toiled, with the growing hosts creating the necessary moments worthy of winning the contest. However, David Raya was on hand to potentially ‘Stefan Ortega’ Arsenal‘s way to glory. His monumental save to deny Mateus Fernandes arrived just minutes before Leandro Trossard struck gold after a curious Martin Ødegaard meander.

In the end, Trossard’s goal was lost to the drama that followed, with West Ham believing they’d equalized at the death. This time, VAR came to Arsenal’s aid. Pablo’s impediment of Raya was deemed worthy of an overturn, with the seismic nature of the incident rationalising the lengthy delay and array of angles. That’s soccer in 2026, folks!

Anyway, after all that, here’s how Opta’s supercomputer projects the 2025–26 Premier League table to look come the end of May.

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Premier League Title Race

Arsenal’s likelihood of winning their first Premier League title in 22 years has jumped up to 87.2% from 79.7% after Manchester City eventually eased past Brentford 3–0 on Saturday afternoon.

While City have the chance this week to cut the Gunners’ lead to two points, Opta are doubtless taking the difficulty of the remaining fixtures into account. The Cityzens must win out the season to have any chance of reclaiming the title. But a tough trip south to Bournemouth, who seemingly cannot lose and are hunting a Champions League berth, is still on their agenda.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have the relegated Burnley and a Crystal Palace side who couldn’t care a jot about how the remainder of their domestic campaign plays out left to play. The Eagles are now UEFA Conference League or bust, and Oliver Glasner will rotate handily for their final day clash against Mikel Arteta’s side when there is a European trophy on the line three days later.

It’s got to be the Gunners’ time, right? Everything is suddenly going their way.

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Race for Europe

Champions League Battle

Manchester United secured their return to Europe’s premier club competition by beating Liverpool 3–2 this month, and they’re bound to be joined among the continent’s aristocracy by the Merseyside Reds.

Supporters are fed up with Arne Slot, and they’ll enter the summer bereft of positivity, but a Champions League berth is at least something to cling to. Their draw with Chelsea on Saturday means the Reds are crawling towards a top-five finish.

They were aided by another Aston Villa slip, with the Clarets drawing 2–2 at Burnley on Sunday. The Villans could qualify for the Champions League twice if they beat Freiburg in the Europa League final later this month, but their recent domestic malaise means Bournemouth are suddenly closing in.

Still, Opta remains bullish on Villa’s top-five hopes, with the Cherries only outsiders to usurp either Liverpool or Villa, given that just two gameweeks remain. Brighton & Hove Albion’s chances of a top-five finish were aided by their dismantling of Wolverhampton Wanderers, but it would take something special for the Seagulls to sneak in with so little of the season remaining.

The Mix for Sixth

Much of the Premier League’s top half will be pleading that Unai Emery works his magic in the Europa League final later this month. An Aston Villa victory in Istanbul would mean sixth-place also qualifies for next season’s Champions League.

And the race is fierce. Bournemouth, still unbeaten since Antoine Semenyo fled to Manchester, are in pole position, but Brighton’s fixtures are slightly less daunting, and Fabian Hürzeler’s men are merely two points adrift.

Brentford’s hopes took a hit at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, while Chelsea and Everton’s chances of competing among Europe’s elite were trimmed to almost nil after their draws over the weekend.

The Blues at least brought a historically bad losing run to an end, and supporters had reason to be encouraged from their side’s performance at Anfield. Still, there’s a genuine possibility that the Blues aren’t competing on the continent at all next season. BlueCo’s masterplan, they’re calling it.

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Relegation Battle

Relegation should be an unfathomable potential for a club of Tottenham Hotspur’s financial standing, and the existential threat of succumbing to the second tier meant supporters clenched their fists with glee and without shame when Trossard struck in east London.

Sure, the result means their fiercest rivals will probably win the league, but the title-bound Gunners have given the Lilywhites an emboldened shot of avoiding the drop. Beat Leeds United on Monday night, and Spurs’ relegation chances will diminish further from the 12.35% at which they currently stand.

West Ham’s defeat also means Leeds, Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace are safe.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Supercomputer Predicts Premier League Table As Arsenal Take Big Step Towards Title.

Premier League

Manchester United’s pursuit of Aurélien Tchouaméni has been complicated by increased interest from Paris Saint-Germain. The Real Madrid midfielder’s future in the Spanish capital has come under immense scrutiny since his widely publicized fight with teammate Federico Valverde. (Source: Fichajes)

In an intriguing twist, Enzo Fernández is expected to rule out a move to Real Madrid should the Spanish giants hire José Mourinho as manager given a decided lack of faith in the Portuguese coach. This will be a boost to Manchester City and Arsenal, who have also been linked with the wantaway Chelsea midfielder. (Source: El Nacional)

In an attempt to fill that Fernández-shaped hole, Chelsea are plotting an audacious approach for Arsenal’s academy gem Ethan Nwaneri. (Source: CaughtOffside)

Tijjani Reijnders’s Manchester City future is clouded in uncertainty. Amid interest from Arsenal, Aston Villa are also thought to have entered the race for the Dutch midfielder, with an offer of $82.4 million (£60.5 million, €70 million) in the works. (Source: Fichajes)

Arsenal’s pursuit of PSG’s fleet-footed forward Bradley Barcola is set to be challenged by Bayern Munich. Liverpool and Barcelona are also sniffing around the winger. (Source: Florian Plettenberg)

Atlético Madrid’s decision to step away from a $53 million (£38.9 million, €45 million) deal for Atalanta midfielder Éderson is a major boost for Manchester United, who are keen on the experienced Brazilian. (Source: Fabrizio Romano)

Liverpool have added FC Midtjylland center back Ousmane Diao to a list of potential summer recruits. The Reds’ attempts to bolster the middle of defense will be challenged by their Premier League rivals Bournemouth, Crystal Palace, Everton and Fulham. (Source: Ekrem Konur)

Arne Slot’s dethroned Premier League champions are also interested in RB Leipzig’s towering, 19-year-old midfielder Assan Ouédraogo. There is talk of an offer in the region of $47.1 million (£34.6 million, €40 million) being prepared. (Source: BILD)

Manchester United are one of several clubs linked with Elche’s impressive Austrian center back David Affengruber. The Italian duo of Juventus and AC Milan have also been credited with interest. (Source: Florian Plettenberg)

West Ham United left back El Hadji Malick Diouf is also on Manchester United’s defensive shopping list this summer. The Hammers’ potential relegation could make an a deal far more affordable for the Red Devils. (Source: Football Insider)

Not content with an approach for Anthony Gordon, Bayern Munich are also interested in his Newcastle teammate Tino Livramento. The German champions are confident that the club’s rich prestige will be enough to convince the fullback, who is already thought to have been the subject of a $76.5 million (£56.2 million, €65 million) offer from Manchester City. (Source: Fichajes)

Newcastle have opened up a line of communication with Juventus for their goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio, who is also admired by Liverpool and Tottenham. (Source: Ekrem Konur)

La Liga

As both Valverde and Tchouaméni threaten to have their Real Madrid careers brought to an abrupt halt after a very public falling out, the Spanish giants have identified Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch as the ideal replacement. Madrid are preparing an eye-watering offer of $141.3 million (£103.8 million, €120 million) for the Netherlands international. (Source: Fichajes)

Madrid would accept an offer as low as $70.7 million (£51.9 million, €60 million) for Tchouaméni in an attempt to pave the way for the acquisition of Manchester City’s Rodri. (Source: El Nacional)

Barcelona are yet to present Robert Lewandowski with a formal contract offer, ensuring that the Poland international is expected to move on to MLS this summer. Chicago Fire are thought to be leading the race for his signature. (Source: Cadena SER)

In the expected event of Franco Mastantuono and Brahim Díaz’s departures, Real Madrid have drawn up a three-man shortlist of right wing options; Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye, Maghnes Akliouche of Monaco or Borussia Dortmund speedster Karim Adeyemi. (Source: Fichajes)

Despite repeated rumored interest from the likes of PSG, Barcelona have deemed Gavi to be an unsellable asset this summer. (Source: El Nacional)

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• Transfer Rumors: Valverde, Tchouameni Receive Premier League Offers; De Gea Considers Man Utd Return

This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Liverpool Receive $140 Million Gravenberch Bid; Fernandez’s Real Madrid Ultimatum.

“A winger needs to score,” the devilish dribbler acknowledged to numerous outlets, stressing that “even five tap-ins a season” could “make a big difference.” Across his subsequent three appearances, Doku has rattled in four goals, although none of them were tap-ins. The Belgian forward swung in another superb curling effort to set City on their way to a potentially significant 3–0 victory over Brentford on Saturday afternoon.

Doku had been on target twice against Everton on Monday night, but couldn’t help City avoid dropping points in a 3–3 draw. Pep Guardiola’s side responded to that shock setback with a late flurry of goals against the Bees that could yet prove decisive should the Premier League title race with Arsenal come down to goal difference.

As it stands, City have closed the gap to just two points at the division’s summit with both sides still to play three games. Erling Haaland, who found the net himself against Brentford, had warned everyone that his side are “still in it” immediately after the setback against Everton. Saturday’s victory justified his faith, even if Opta’s supercomputer wasn’t quite as optimistic.

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Premier League Title Race

Arsenal were given an 85% chance of winning the league in the immediate aftermath of City’s stumble on Merseyside earlier this week. An eventually comfortable win over Brentford has reduced the arrears, but the Gunners still emerge triumphant in the vast majority of Opta’s 10,000 simulations of the Premier League’s remaining fixtures.

This level of confidence has persisted throughout the season, ignoring the various gulleys of form endured by the Gunners over a disastrous spring. Mikel Arteta’s Champions League finalists have struck upon a strong vein of form lately, although the toll those recent performances have taken on an injury riddled roster may come to the fore over the domestic campaign’s conclusion.

West Ham United, Arsenal’s next opponents, have made a habit of unsettling their London rivals. The Hammers beat the Gunners last season to snuff out their slim hope of challenging Liverpool, set the wheels in motion for a late stumble in 2023–24 with another victory at the Emirates and scrambled a 2–2 draw in east London three years ago to help derail the club's first title tilt under Arteta.

Yet, for all the hurdles Arsenal have to overcome, Opta are even more pessimistic about City. Guardiola’s challengers theoretically have straightforward fixtures against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa—two teams preparing for European finals—sandwiched between a very tricky trip to Bournemouth. Three days after the FA Cup final, City will find themselves at the Vitality Stadium for Andoni Iraola’s last home game on the south coast while his Cherries are still chasing Champions League qualification.

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Race for Europe

Champions League Battle

It was painfully evident that Manchester United had already secured Champions League qualification as they listlessly limped towards a goalless draw with Sunderland on Saturday in their first game since sealing that status. Liverpool appeared to be scarcely more motivated for much of their 1–1 draw with Chelsea despite still needing another win to guarantee a top-five finish.

A disappointing drop-off at Anfield notwithstanding, the Reds remain heavy favorites to punch their Champions League ticket. Not that the dismayed Merseyside crowd—or Arne Slot—would have been swayed by that stance.

“We wanted to qualify for it weeks ago,” Slot sighed. “It isn’t the season we're having, though. Sometimes it is really hard to accept these results because we are used to different ones.”

Intriguingly, Liverpool are next in action against Aston Villa, the other side heavily expected to join them in the Champions League places. However, neither team is quite guaranteed a seat at Europe’s top table just yet.

The Mix for Sixth

“Today was a very important step forward,” Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola beamed after his side battled to a 1–0 win over Fulham on Saturday, “but we still have to get more points.” The Cherries still have a slim chance of automatically qualifying for the Champions League. They would likely have to win their final two fixtures—including that visit from league-chasing Manchester City—and hope one of Villa or Liverpool drop points.

Brighton & Hove Albion haven’t yet given up hope of the top five, but sixth is a more realistic goal. That the Seagulls are even in with a chance of any continental competition is an example of this helter-skelter Premier League campaign. “It’s a mental season,” club captain Lewis Dunk gushed, “one minute we’re looking at relegation and now we’re talking about Europe, it’s great fun football, isn’t it?”

Chelsea haven’t had a lot of fun lately. The Blues belatedly halted their losing streak against Liverpool on Saturday yet a point hasn’t done much to boost their chances of salvaging this underwhelming campaign. Remarkably, Everton have better odds of clambering into sixth place than the reigning Club World Cup champions.

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Relegation Battle

Saturday was spared any more relegation permutations, with West Ham not playing Arsenal until Sunday while Tottenham Hotspur conclude the matchday with a crunch clash against Leeds United on Monday. However, Spurs’ chances of survival still improved.

This was a consequence of their upcoming opponents Chelsea deemed to have been even more of a diminished force after a middling showing against Liverpool. Both Tottenham and West Ham still have to play Leeds while Spurs end the league season against an Everton side which may have nothing left to play for. West Ham’s last away day of the season, a long trip to Newcastle United next weekend, is also up against an unmotivated foe.

Wolverhampton Wanderers and Burnley have already had relegation guaranteed. They’ve been playing like it for a while.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Supercomputer Predicts Premier League Table As Man City Send Arsenal Title Message.

Unless you are a megalomaniacal owner with feverish ideas about superstition, there are certain lines (and zig-zags) which can’t be crossed when it comes to a club’s home strip. There is much more room for expression with the changed colors.

As attention turns towards the 2026–27 Premier League campaign, glimpses of these alternative designs have begun to tentatively filter through to the public sphere. Some are more outrageous than others.

Arsenal

🚨 Mock-up of Arsenal’s 2026/27 away kit based on leaked information (90% accuracy), acting as a ‘reverse’ of the iconic bruised banana pattern, as per @Footy_Headlines. 👕🍌

🎨 @Rode1Kits pic.twitter.com/gfCwZ7dYFq

— afcstuff (@afcstuff) January 22, 2026

Arsenal’s leaked away kit has been described as a “reverse” of the club’s famous ‘Bruised Banana’ shirts from the early 1990s.

This particular design has been an established cult classic among the fanbase for years, although its initial iteration is not quite so legendary. The 1992–93 team which first wore the black and yellow zig-zags finished a lowly 10th in the inaugural Premier League season, with George Graham’s old-school side struggling to adapt to the new back-pass law.

A navy base for the reimagined design is complemented by the iconic retro pattern, while red and yellow accents complete the shirt’s clean look.

Aston Villa

😱This marks the first time since the 2022-23 season, when Castore produced a sky blue and claret away shirt, that Villa have worn this classic color combination. https://t.co/lxMrIS2YrD pic.twitter.com/WtUuMqZHD6

— Footy Headlines (@Footy_Headlines) November 10, 2025

Aston Villa are expected to roll back the years with a predominantly sky blue away kit. The last time the Villans donned such a number was back in 2022–23, Unai Emery’s first campaign at the helm after the end of Steven Gerrard’s unhappy reign.

Bournemouth

We’re delighted to announce a new multi-year partnership with Hummel – a club-record kit deal for #afcb ❤️🖤

— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) May 4, 2026

Bournemouth have not let many details about their new kit slip. That’s understandable given the club only announced a new manufacturer in May.

Chelsea

⛔⛔⛔ This white, blue and black kit is NOT the Chelsea 26-27 away kit but a great concept by @Rode1Kits

The actual Chelsea away kit is this black and yellow design https://t.co/EPJ0e6sCs3 pic.twitter.com/CZpf6fArfg

— Footy Headlines (@Footy_Headlines) April 7, 2026

Nike’s ’Midwest Gold’ is set to appear on Chelsea’s new away kit. The color is expected to work in harmony with a predominantly black base, similar to their strip from the 2012–13 season, which ended in bizarre fashion (metaphorically, rather than literally) as the loathed interim manager Rafael Benítez led a mutinous fanbase to Europa League glory.

The identity of Chelsea’s next manager is as uncertain as the sponsor which will sit on the front of the shirts, if any at all.

Leeds United

💛💙🤍 Leeds United 26-27 Away Kit Leaked: https://t.co/bEnMYhwJBo

— Footy Headlines (@Footy_Headlines) March 21, 2026

There’s some firsts with the new Leeds United away kit, which is set to feature an adidas trefoil logo for the first time since they switched suppliers in 2020. The white Yorkshire rose is also projected to feature in the Leeds crest on a predominantly yellow shirt.

Liverpool

💥 Liverpool x adidas 💥

🎟️ New 26/27 Away Kit! pic.twitter.com/1HM266gkz6

— Opaleak (@opaleak) February 21, 2026

The projections for Liverpool’s new away kit looks an awful lot like the 2025–26 design. The color may be a little closer to white than cream and the adidas trefoil could replace the classic three stripes which currently adorn the strip.

Intriguingly, there also appears to be the prospect of using the retro badge which was redeployed on the 2025–26 green third kit. This classic, pared back design has the liver bird standing alone above the word “Liverpool” split in half. The inspiration for this particular shield was used by the club from 1987–92.

Manchester City

The leaked Man City away kit for next season is just beautiful 😍 pic.twitter.com/AGCdqXQ7DL

— Nico (fan) (@N1coSZN) March 29, 2026

Puma have been given licence to experiment wildly with some previous Manchester City strips. There have been some contentious designs in the past—the 2025–26 mix of dull grey and neon green is an assault of the senses, be that positive or negative—but the leaks for next term’s kit is more understated.

A largely black design with some gold fringing brings to mind the 2013–14 design which saw City win their second-ever Premier League title. Yaya Touré was intimidating enough, but once he seemed to become an even more imperious figure while dominating the entire division in all-black shirt.

Manchester United

✅ 𝙊𝙁𝙁𝙄𝘾𝙄𝘼𝙇: Manchester United’s 𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐘 kit for the 2026/27 season. 👕🥶 Do you like it Reds? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/y7spVfX55p

— GIDEON MUFC (@GBUnitedx) April 29, 2026

Manchester United may have gone back to royal blue for their 2026–27 away shirt, taking inspiration from their memorable SHARP-sponsored kits worn just before the Premier League’s inception. We’ve seen some modern takes on the classic, and supporters are more than content with the newest interpretation.

Newcastle United

🧱🧱 Newcastle United 26-27 Away Kit to Be Navy - Brickwork Pattern [via @Retro_NUFC]: https://t.co/JDJwgzOxri

— Footy Headlines (@Footy_Headlines) November 5, 2025

Newcastle United’s newest away kit is expected to take inspiration from St. James’ Park. The brickwork of the stadium which the Magpies have called home since 1892 is set to detail a navy design.

This retro setup could also have the club badge from 1976–83 on its chest. This short-lived number has a proud magpie perched in front of a castle, which fits the brief of a Newcastle badge more closely than the current seahorse design.

Tottenham Hotspur

👀 Thoughts on the leaked Tottenham 26-27 away kit? pic.twitter.com/iJazWBPw9o

— Footy Headlines (@Footy_Headlines) April 4, 2026

Tottenham’s predicted away shirt is far more chaotic than the home number, with its “Obsidian” base completely outshone by a vibrant and futuristic design that features more diagonal striping comprised of an array of neon colors, including pink and orange.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Premier League Kits: Confirmed and Leaked Away Jerseys for 2026–27 Season.

Nottingham Forest’s incredible run of recent form—14 points from a possible 18, including a 5–0 trouncing of Sunderland—has put the beaten Europa League semifinalists seven ahead of West Ham with just two games of the Premier League season remaining.

The Hammers’ plight to stay up took another massive blow on Sunday after they suffered a heartbreaking and controversial 1–0 defeat to Arsenal. Nuno Espírito Santo’s men remain in the drop zone—and time is running out to save their place in the English top flight.

Spurs are only two points ahead of West Ham, thanks to a three-game unbeaten streak, but they passed up the opportunity to widen the gap on Monday by only drawing with Leeds United. Tottenham can’t afford to rest on their laurels even though things appear to be clicking into place under former Brighton & Hove Albion and Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi.

Tottenham and West Ham’s Remaining Fixtures Compared

While Tottenham supporters have actively rooted against their own to ensure previous Arsenal Premier League title bids have gone up in smoke, the fanbase were all but unified in their support of the Gunners on Sunday.

Victory for Mikel Arteta’s side greatly aided Spurs’ survival bid, even if they couldn’t capitalize against a Leeds team whose safety was already guaranteed.

Tottenham visit Stamford Bridge in a midweek clash after Chelsea’s FA Cup final with Manchester City. It’s a fixture that will evoke memories of the “Battle of the Bridge” from a decade ago, when the Blues fought back from 2–0 down to earn the point that sealed the league title for miracle-workers Leicester City.

West Ham are up at Newcastle United on the penultimate weekend, perhaps encouraged by their win at St. James’ Park last season. The Magpies did stop the rot against Brighton & Hove Albion, but won’t be playing for much in their final home outing of 2025–26.

Both teams are at home on the final day, with Spurs hosting Everton and West Ham facing Leeds—a side who have already triumphed at London Stadium this season in the FA Cup quarterfinals.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as How Tottenham’s Final Fixtures Compare to Relegation Rivals West Ham.

While the hotly competitive race for Europe remains a muddle, and likely won’t become clear until it’s all said and done later this month, two teams are gunning for glory, and another two are bidding to survive.

And the pair are inextricably linked this weekend, to the point where North London Forever will be belted across the entirety of north London on Sunday afternoon, not merely the red half.

With so much on the line, here’s how Sports Illustrated thinks Premier League gameweek 36 could pan out.

Liverpool vs. Chelsea

• Date: Saturday, May 9
• Time: 12:30 p.m. BST / 7:30 a.m. ET / 4:30 a.m. PT

This is a fixture laden with Premier League heritage, but the upcoming bout is bound to be a rather sorry affair.

Chelsea, off the back of six consecutive league defeats, travel to Anfield with their hopes of playing in next season’s Champions League close to shattered. They were nothing short of dire on Monday afternoon, with a heavily rotated Nottingham Forest team waltzing into Stamford Bridge and prevailing at a canter—almost by accident!

They’ve been so easy to play against, but Arne Slot’s soon-to-be-dethroned champions are guilty are being similarly frail this term.

Still, Liverpool likely need just a point to secure their place among Europe’s elite for next season. Last week’s defeat at Old Trafford left a bitter taste, though, and they shouldn’t be expected to have it all their way against a woefully out-of-sorts Chelsea team.

Prediction: Liverpool 1–1 Chelsea

Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers

• Date: Saturday, May 9
• Time: 3 p.m. BST / 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT

Relegation had been rendered inevitable for months, but Wolverhampton Wanderers at least seemed to be heading in the right direction under Rob Edwards.

However, things have started to sour again at Molineux. A once-positive rapport between previously disgruntled supporters and Edwards is seemingly obsolete.

They did earn a point at home to Sunderland last weekend, having lost three on the bounce. Still, the visitors haven’t won on their travels once in the Premier League this season, and Brighton & Hove Albion will be determined to prove their dismal defeat on Tyneside was merely a blip.

The Seagulls recently extended Fabian Hürzeler’s contract, and qualification for Europe will be swift vindication for the faith they’re showing in the German.

Prediction: Brighton 2–0 Wolves

Fulham vs. Bournemouth

• Date: Saturday, May 9
• Time: 3 p.m. BST / 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT

Bournemouth remarkably remain unbeaten since they parted ways with Antoine Semenyo in January, with their stellar run of form thrusting them up to sixth in the Premier League table.

Should Aston Villa claim Europa League glory later this month, a sixth-place finish will be enough to qualify for the Champions League. Thus, the Cherries are playing for plenty down the stretch, and a potential banana skin is upcoming.

Fulham offered little resistance in north London last weekend and have generally been meek on their travels this season, but they boast the sixth-best home record in the division, winning 10 of their 17 games.

The Cottagers still hold out hope of competing on the continent next season, but they’ve so far been unable to put together a run of positive results.

Prediction: Fulham 1–1 Bournemouth

Sunderland vs. Manchester United

• Date: Saturday, May 9
• Time: 3 p.m. BST / 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT

That was some Sunday for Manchester United, who completed their first Premier League double over arch-rivals Liverpool in a decade to seal their spot in the Champions League.

Thus, Michael Carrick’s side aren’t playing for all that much during the final three weeks of the season, but they’ll want to head into the summer still riding a wave of positivity.

Sunderland surrendered five to Forest on their previous home outing and are winless in three games, hindering their European hopes. Still, the Black Cats are thrilled with the season they’ve had upon their return to the top flight.

United have won the previous three meetings between the pair, including a 2–0 win in the reverse fixture. The hosts will also be without the suspended Dan Ballard.

Prediction: Sunderland 0–1 Man Utd

Manchester City vs. Brentford

• Date: Saturday, May 9
• Time: 5:30 p.m. BST / 12:30 p.m. ET / 9:30 a.m. PT

Jérémy Doku’s stoppage-time equalizer surely won’t be enough for Manchester City in the title race, with Arsenal’s recovery post-defeat at the Etihad Stadium likely meaning Pep Guardiola’s side had to be perfect down the stretch.

City seemed to be coasting to a typical triumph on Merseyside, but they were a bundle of nerves in the second half against the Toffees and completely collapsed within a potentially season-crushing 13-minute spell.

Still, Doku’s magic meant they at least departed with something. Now, they have the chance to put the pressure back on Arsenal by beating European hopefuls Brentford. The Bees are one of the very few Premier League teams to win at the Etihad Stadium since Covid.

Prediction: Man City 3–1 Brentford

Burnley vs. Aston Villa

• Date: Sunday, May 10
• Time: 2 p.m. BST / 9 a.m. ET / 6 a.m. PT

Aston Villa’s mood heading into Sunday’s trip to Burnley was always going to depend on the outcome of their Europa League semifinal against Forest.

Unai Emery’s indifference last weekend against Tottenham Hotspur infuriated the overwhelming majority who are desperate to lap up a Lilywhite humiliation. Villa supporters were incensed at their team’s passivity, and suddenly, they’re looking over their shoulder regarding a top-five finish.

The Villans should be O.K., given that Bournemouth are six points back with three games left. Moreover, Burnley have long been cannon fodder for the rest of the top flight.

The relegated Clarets, now led by Michael Jackson—not the ’King of Pop’ but rather a 52-year-old from Cheshire—have won just one Premier League game in 2026, and are winless at home since last October.

The sweet release of Championship soccer can’t arrive soon enough.

Prediction: Burnley 0–1 Aston Villa

Crystal Palace vs. Everton

• Date: Sunday, May 10
• Time: 2 p.m. BST / 9 a.m. ET / 6 a.m. PT

Crystal Palace have done just about enough to avoid the relegation scrap, so all their eggs are in the Conference League basket. The remaining Premier League games are merely inconveniences.

They’ve lost back-to-back games in the top flight, and West Ham United could come to rue the stalemate they played out at Selhurst Park against Palace’s reserves last month.

Everton will seek to take advantage of the hosts’ priorities this Sunday, especially after Doku stole two points away from them on Monday. Still, the Toffees would’ve taken a point against the title hopefuls before kick-off.

If they’re able to build on their opportunistic second half showing that hindered Man City’s title charge, starting in south London, Everton could find themselves back in Europe next season.

Prediction: Crystal Palace 0–2 Everton

Nottingham Forest vs. Newcastle United

• Date: Sunday, May 10
• Time: 2 p.m. BST / 10 p.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT

As bad as Chelsea have been as of late, Vitor Pereira surely wouldn’t have expected his team to blow the Blues away in the manner they did after making eight changes from the XI that bypassed Villa in the first leg of their Europa League semifinal tie.

The victory in west London means Forest are all but safe. West Ham are six points back with a far inferior goal difference.

Thus, the mood should be fairly relaxed at the City Ground when Newcastle United come to town, even if elimination from the Europa League on Thursday came as a blow.

The Magpies stopped their rot last weekend against Brighton, and are committing to Eddie Howe for 2026–27 despite an underwhelming domestic campaign. Remarkably, though, they aren’t out of European contention.

Prediction: Nott’m Forest 2–2 Newcastle

West Ham United vs. Arsenal

• Date: Sunday, May 10
• Time: 4:30 p.m. BST / 11:30 a.m. ET / 8:30 a.m. PT

Arsenal and Manchester City seemed to switch personas in Gameweek 34, as the former dispatched Fulham with City-like ruthlessness before Pep Guardiola’s side crumbled on Merseyside in a manner Gooners are all too familiar with.

Everton’s point has handed Arsenal a considerable advantage in the title race with such little time in the season remaining. Given the fixtures they have, many are suggesting that a victory on Sunday will all but seal the title for Mikel Arteta’s men.

The visitors will be in a euphoric mood after grinding their way to the Champions League final, but West Ham are desperate towards the foot of the table. This will be anything but simple for the seemingly liberated Gunners.

The Hammers weren’t all that bad at Brentford last week. Suddenly, though, they’re the overwhelming favorites for the drop. A result would at least put some pressure back on Spurs.

Prediction: West Ham 1–2 Arsenal

Tottenham Hotspur vs. Leeds United

• Date: Monday, May 11
• Time: 8 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT

Sure, Villa were much-changed and woeful last Sunday, but God forbid anyone give Roberto De Zerbi’s Tottenham Hotspur a bit of credit. They were excellent at Villa Park, with the Italian’s impact keenly felt on a once-broken squad.

In the absence of creativity, De Zerbi’s is embracing Tottenham’s midfield runners. Their effort was dogged in the West Midlands, and it’s evident that the new manager has complete buy-in from this group of players.

Last week felt like a significant turning point in the relegation scrap, but Leeds United will be tough to bypass under the lights on Monday. The visitors are enjoying their best away run in 47 years, when Don Revie’s side went 17 games unbeaten. A 2–2 draw at Bournemouth means Leeds are up to nine.

In addition, a 3–1 win over Burnley last time out all but guaranteed their safety.

Prediction: Tottenham 2–1 Leeds

Premier League Predictions: Gameweek 36

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Premier League Predictions: Gameweek 36.

Premier League

Manchester United have ruled out a move for Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer, believing their transfer priorities lie elsewhere this summer. (Source: The Mirror)

Instead, Man Utd are accelerating their pursuit of West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes, whose chances of remaining at the London Stadium beyond this season are increasingly slim. (Source: Football Insider)

Fiorentina goalkeeper David De Gea is keen to remain with the Serie A side but has made it clear that he would consider a return to former employers Man Utd. (Source: Niccolò Ceccarini)

Liverpool have added Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba, a target for Man Utd, to their summer shortlist alongside Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, Monaco’s Lamine Camara and Lens’ Mamadou Sangaré. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Chelsea have held a meeting with the agent of Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon over a possible summer switch. (Source: Si Phillips)

Despite links to the contrary, Bayern Munich are not looking to sign Arsenal forward Kai Havertz, even though the German is thought to be keen to play for the Bundesliga giants at some point in his career. (Source: Christian Falk)

Coming it at Arsenal could be Manchester City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, who is set for talks about his future at the Etihad after struggling for minutes. (Source: CaughtOffside)

Liverpool are looking to sign Tottenham Hotspur center back Luka Vušković ahead of Chelsea, Man Utd and Bayern Munich. (Source: Football Insider)

Meanwhile, Tottenham are stepping up their chase of Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke, who is also on the shortlists of both Chelsea and Liverpool. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Man Utd are ready to submit a significant bid to sign Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali. The Red Devils are leading the race and are thought to have already communicated their interest to the Italian. (Source: Tuttomercatoweb)

Sporting CP left back Maxi Araújo, wanted by Chelsea, Man Utd, Tottenham and Juventus, will be allowed to leave this summer for a fee of $59 million (€50 million, £43 million). (Source: AS)

Amid all the recent chaos at Real Madrid, Liverpool are ready to try and lure midfielder Federico Valverde over to Anfield. (Source: Fichajes)

Liverpool are ready to offer a package worth up to $117 million (€100 million, £86 million) to sign Valverde, but will have to fend off rival interest from Arsenal. (Source: El Nacional)

Man Utd, meanwhile, are looking to land Aurélien Tchouaméni from Real Madrid, who are open to doing business at $95 million (£70 million, €81 million). (Source: Paddy Keogh)

Juventus forward Jonathan David is in no rush to walk away from his lucrative contract with the Serie A side. Aston Villa and Crystal Palace have both warned Juve that they will have to contribute to his wages as part of a potential loan exit. (Source: Tuttomercatoweb)

La Liga

Barcelona are looking to use the ‘Raphinha method’ when it comes to summer signings, chasing young players from the Premier League yet to establish themselves as global superstars. Chelsea striker João Pedro has emerged as a top target and is valued at $88 million (€75 million, £65 million). (Source: SPORT)

Atlético Madrid have already opened negotiations to sign another Chelsea star, left back Marc Cucurella. (Source: Fichajes)

Real Madrid are ready to part ways with Aurelién Tchouaméni after his fight with Federico Valverde and plan to use the Frenchman in a swap deal for Man City midfielder Rodri. (Source: El Nacional)

Just five players at Real Madrid are not facing uncertain futures at the club: Thibaut Courtois, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Arda Güler, Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé. Other players, including Vinicius Junior, could be allowed to leave for the right price. (Source: Defensa Central)

Beşiktaş have made a bid of $23.5 million (€20 million, £17.3 million) for Real Madrid center back Raúl Asencio. (Source: Fanatik)

The agent of Tottenham defender Luka Vušković has held talks with Barcelona, but Spurs are trying to tie the youngster down to a new contract. (Source: Florian Plettenberg)

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Valverde, Tchouameni Receive Premier League Offers; De Gea Considers Man Utd Return.

Despite only seven clubs changing coaches throughout 2025–26, there have been 11 managerial alterations in total, the second-highest tally in competition history. Several teams have been particularly trigger-happy, Nottingham Forest (3), Chelsea (2) and Tottenham Hotspur (2) all parting ways with multiple managers.

As the stakes increase with each passing Premier League season, so does the pressure for those in the hot seat. That expectation has proven too much to handle for a plethora of coaches—newbies and veterans alike.

A chaotic campaign has lacked continuity for clubs across the division, but which sackings have been warranted during the season?

Here’s Sports Illustrated’s ranking of the Premier League’s dismissals, ordered by merit.

11. Nuno Espírito Santo (Nottingham Forest)

Just three matches of the Premier League season had elapsed when the weary axe of Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis came down on Nuno Espírito Santo. Despite the Portuguese coach guiding the club to a surprise Europa League berth the previous campaign, Marinakis’s trademark impatience and combustibility led to Nuno’s dismissal after less than a month of the term.

Forest had accumulated four points from their opening matches, but Nuno’s exit was unrelated to on-field performances. The 52-year-old’s public fallout with Marinakis sealed his fate, no matter how impressive displays had been during his 21 months at the helm.

Forest supporters were understandably furious with the decision to sack a coach that had guided them to seventh in the Premier League the previous season. Few departures have been less justified in recent years.

10. Sean Dyche (Nottingham Forest)

Sean Dyche’s reputation as a firefighter saw him appointed as Nottingham Forest’s third manager of the term. After Ange Postecoglou’s dreadful stint (we’ll get to that), the former Everton and Burnley manager was tasked with steering the Tricky Trees from the drop zone. He did exactly that.

Dyche arrived with Forest 18th in the standings and left the Midlands having lifted them to 16th spot, as well as helping them into the knockout stage of the Europa League. Sure, the soccer wasn’t particularly inspiring or consistent, but he’d helped steady the ship.

Just 114 days after being hired, Dyche was fired, despite the fact that Forest would have been 12th in the Premier League purely based on results under the Englishman. He was also nominated for the division’s Manger of the Month in January, just two games before being sacked.

9. Enzo Maresca (Chelsea)

Chelsea’s ownership group, BlueCo, are never shy in rolling out the guillotine for managers they perceive to be underachieving. Despite winning the Europa Conference League and Club World Cup in his debut term, as well as guiding Chelsea back to the Champions League, Enzo Maresca succumbed to the same fate as his predecessors.

Maresca technically departed Chelsea by “mutual consent,” but Chelsea’s statement at the time revealed they believed a change was necessary to turn the season around. Progress had stagnated under the Italian, whose methodical soccer rarely wowed the Stamford Bridge faithful.

Maresca left Chelsea on New Year’s Day with the club in eighth place and while performances were underwhelming, it was the Italian’s discussions with Manchester City over a potential move in the future that appeared the final nail in the coffin, while his public disappointment towards the club’s transfer dealings didn’t help.

Despite the credit he stored in the bank, Maresca was just another up-and-coming coach unable to appease Chelsea’s brutal owners.

8. Scott Parker (Burnley)

For the second time, Scott Parker has failed to avoid relegation from the Premier League as a coach. The Englishman was demoted with Fulham back in 2020–21 and couldn’t better that campaign as Burnley manager, the Clarets relegated to the Championship with four matches remaining.

Parker’s ability to guide teams back to the top flight is commendable, but he’s often appeared out of his depth as a Premier League boss. Burnley’s relegation was all but certain months before its confirmation, with the Lancashire side managing just six wins in all competitions this season.

Parker’s dismissal was inevitable, although he was dealt a rough hand during the summer. Burnley’s lackluster transfer window left them with the league’s weakest squad, with plenty of managers likely to have struggled in Parker’s shoes.

7. Liam Rosenior (Chelsea)

Liam Rosenior was the surprise successor to Maresca. Plucked from Chelsea’s sister club Strasbourg having impressed in France, the aspiring 41-year-old was an unexpected choice, but made a bright start in the Stamford Bridge dugout.

After winning eight of his first 11 games, Chelsea fans grew hopeful that Rosenior’s potential would materialize in west London, but times soon turned tough.

The nickname ‘LinkedIn Liam’ was handed out after some bizarre motivational tactics and cringy soundbites, and his predicament was exacerbated by rumblings within the dressing room. With performances on the pitch also turning woeful, BlueCo swiftly dismissed Rosenior after just 104 days in charge.

It was little surprise to see him ousted so quickly, few managers boasting the skill set to handle an inexperienced squad littered with large egos and outspoken stars.

6. Graham Potter (West Ham United)

Graham Potter lasted just three weeks longer than Nuno, his eventual successor and the first manager to be dismissed in 2025–26. A little over a month had passed before the Hammers pulled the trigger, following a dire start to the term that left them in 18th place.

Potter had only been appointed in January 2025, and despite keeping the Irons from relegation, he could have few complaints about being sacked after just 25 matches in charge. Winning just 24% of his games—the lowest return across his managerial career—the Hammers understandably sought a change.

The fact that Nuno has struggled to steer West Ham away from the relegation zone since replacing Potter suggests the Englishman was not solely to blame at the London Stadium, but he certainly underperformed massively with an expensively assembled squad.

5. Ruben Amorim (Manchester United)

Ruben Amorim arrived at Old Trafford with a burgeoning reputation as Sporting CP’s savior. The 41-year-old’s success in Portugal resulted in selection as the man entrusted to usher in a new and exciting era in Manchester. However, things hardly went to plan.

A disastrous debut season saw Man Utd place 15th, their lowest ever finish in the Premier League era. The move to a 3-4-2-1 formation backfired, and even a sizeable summer spend before the current campaign couldn’t drag Amorim and his players out of the mire. Both performances and results were utterly dreadful.

Man Utd were justified in their decision to eventually fire Amorim in January, especially with the club stranded in seventh and increasingly unlikely to qualify for the Champions League. Players and supporters had completely lost faith in the Portuguese coach, with the only surprise about his sacking being that it hadn’t occurred earlier.

Michael Carrick has since done a terrific job as interim head coach, shining an even harsher spotlight on Amorim’s shortcomings.

4. Thomas Frank (Tottenham Hotspur)

Thomas Frank wasn’t the most glamorous appointment as Postecoglou’s successor, especially given the club had just confirmed its return to the Champions League courtesy of Europa League glory. However, an impressive body of work with Brentford convinced Spurs decision-makers of his merit.

Things started promisingly enough for Frank, despite his lack of charisma and following several media faux pas. Tottenham won four of their opening five matches, tightening up a previously porous defense and even securing an impressive scalp away at Manchester City.

However, things soon went awry as results, performances and injuries led to Frank’s downfall. The club were dragged into the relegation fight on his watch, and an increasingly turgid approach ensured nobody at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was having fun. Unsurprisingly, he was fired in February as Spurs sought to save their campaign.

3. Igor Tudor (Tottenham Hotspur)

The man chosen to lead Tottenham away from the relegation zone and back to comfort was Igor Tudor. Despite having never worked in England previously, a reputation earned primarily in Italy as a steady pair of hands capable of stabilizing struggling teams saw Spurs take a punt on him in March.

The Tudor experiment backfired dramatically, however. Five of his seven matches at the helm ended in defeat, including heavy losses to Arsenal and Atlético Madrid—the latter offering a stellar example of dreadful man-management as he thrust back-up goalkeeper Antonín Kinský into the XI, only to substitute him after 17 minutes following two errors.

A dire 3–0 defeat at home to relegation rivals Forest was the final straw, Tudor justifiably removed from his post shortly after another embarrassing display. Not only was his tenure one of the shortest in Premier League history, it was one of the most catastrophic.

2. Ange Postecoglou (Nottingham Forest)

Spurs and Forest are the two prevailing themes running through the Premier League’s extensive list of dismissals, Postecoglou having been fired by both clubs over the past year. Europa League glory was not enough to save the Australian in north London last season, his exit leaving him free to take the Forest job after Nuno’s sacking.

Postecoglou arrived at the City Ground in October with a point to prove, all eyes turning to his tactical approach with a side bereft of confidence. Despite boasting a reputation as an offense-first coach, goals proved hard to come by during his nine games in charge, while glaring defensive issues were frequently exposed.

Only 39 days after his arrival, Marinakis expelled Postecoglou, results having dramatically worsened in a short period of time. He failed to win any of his nine games in charge, losing five of six outings in the Premier League.

1. Vítor Pereira (Wolverhampton Wanderers)

Vitor Pereira has enhanced his reputation since becoming Forest’s fourth manager of the season, an impressive stint with the Tricky Trees likely to save them from relegation and resulting in a deep Europa League run. However, things looked very different for the Portuguese coach back at the start of November.

Pereira began the season with Wolverhampton Wanderers having enjoyed a strong 2024–25 campaign at the club after arriving midway through the term. But things turned ugly at the beginning of the current season, an utterly disastrous start largely responsible for the Old Gold’s relegation to the Championship.

After 10 Premier League games under Pereira, Wolves had amassed just two points, and were already eight adrift of safety when he was dismissed. Such a dismal run was only going to end one way, even if Pereira has been able to restore some pride with his Forest stint.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Every Premier League Sacking of 2025–26 Ranked by Justification.

Premier League

Manchester United have been linked with Brentford’s prolific striker Igor Thiago. Competition for the Brazilian’s signature will be crowded, with Chelsea thought to be lining up a $105.8 million (£77.8 million, €90 million) splurge. (Source: Fichajes)

Arsenal are considering an outlandish move for Paris Saint-Germain superstar Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The Gunners have been financially boosted by a run to the Champions League final—where they will face the Georgian maestro—with a $165.9 million (£122 million war chest to draw from. (Source: Sky Sports News)

Manchester United have added Tottenham Hotspur center back Micky van de Ven to a shortlist of transfer targets for that problem position. Nottingham Forest’s Murillo and RB Leipzg gem Castello Lukeba are also under consideration, but the competition for Van de Ven will be fierce. (Source: Fichajes)

Liverpool are poised to battle United for Van de Ven’s services. The Dutchman’s price is expected to fluctuate wildly depending on the division Tottenham start next season in. In the even of relegation, Van de Ven’s valuation is set to drop from $122.4 million (£90 million) to $81.6 million (£60 million). (Source: TEAMtalk)

Manchester City, Real Madrid and Arsenal are locked in a three-way battle for Chelsea's wantaway midfielder Enzo Fernández. The World Cup winner is valued at $141 million (£103.7 million, €120 million). (Source: Fichajes)

Galatasaray have singled out Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk as the ideal summer addition, one year before his contract at Anfield expires. The Dutch defender is thought to be open to the idea of joining the Turkish giants. (Source: FotoMac)

Atlético Madrid have made a formal approach for Arsenal’s academy gem Myles Lewis-Skelly. The Gunners are expected to demand €70 million for the homegrown prospect newly flourishing as a midfielder. (Source: Fichajes)

Newcastle United have retained their interest in Liam Delap from last summer and are expected to try and make the Chelsea striker the marquee arrival of the window. (Source: GIVEMESPORT)

Manchester United’s search for a new midfielder has led them to the door of West Ham United star Mateus Fernandes. (Source: The Telegraph)

Aston Villa and Tottenham have both been credited with interest in Parma midfielder Mandela Keita. (Source: TuttoAtalanta)

La Liga

Working off the advice of Croatia captain and club legend Luka Modrić, Real Madrid have reignited their pursuit of Manchester City’s Joško Gvardiol, who is rated at $117.5 million (£86.4 million, €100 million). (Source: Fichajes)

Bayern Munich’s prodigious midfielder Lennart Karl is thought to be keen on a move to Barcelona this summer. (Source: El Nacional)

Despite a fierce public backlash and calls for his sale, Real Madrid are not thought to have any plans of offloading Kylian Mbappé this summer. (Source: Fabrizio Romano)

However, Vinicius Junior’s future is far less certain, especially as the Brazilian is yet to extend a contract which is currently set to expire in 2027. Manchester City are billed as “serious contenders” to sign the fleet-footed forward. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Barcelona’s first offer for Spurs fullback Pedro Porro has arrived at a value of $35.3 million (£25.9 million, €30 million).

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Man Utd Eye $105 Million Premier League Striker; Van Dijk’s Liverpool Exit.

Koné has blossomed into one of Marsch’s most trusted internationals this season, cementing his spot in Canada’s starting XI while thriving at club level in Italy’s top flight with Sassuolo.

However, as Marsch was keen to point out during his appearance on Call It What You Want, Koné had to overcome “difficulties” at Marseille, which—to his mind—were caused by the outspoken manager at the time, De Zerbi.

The ’Difficulties’ De Zerbi Caused Koné at Marseille

Marseille ironically published the incriminating evidence against their own manager. The French giants released weekly episodes of behind-the-scenes documentary in the summer of 2025 with unseen footage from matchdays, the dressing rooms and, crucially, the training pitch.

It was during one session that De Zerbi was caught on camera berating Koné, who had only been signed from Watford for around $14 million a few months earlier. “Oh my God!” De Zerbi is seen to shout while the players are conducting a small-sided passing game. “When I tell you to reduce the touches, reduce the touches!”

Koné argued: “I couldn’t play!” but was afforded little sympathy. After ordering the then-22-year-old to leave the session, De Zerbi yelled: “Call your agent, call your agent to come here!”

The player and coach had to be separated, and Koné was promptly loaned out to French rivals Rennes in February 2025. After four months in Ligue 1, the Canada international was loaned out again to Sassuolo last summer before permanently signing for the promoted side in February of this year.

‘Let Me Reiterate’—Marsch Doubles Down on De Zerbi Criticism

“It wasn’t easy with De Zerbi and Marseille,” Marsch was at pains to stress while reviewing Koné’s impressive progress since leaving the south of France. “De Zerbi was a real, real ass---- with him and he stayed strong. He never doubted himself. He found a new situation, and now look at him flourishing.”

The podcast hosts were preparing to move on but Marsch interrupted to ram home his point: “Let me reiterate. De Zerbi was a real ass---- with him.”

Marsch did not spare Koné of some criticism, recognizing that he has grown as a player and person over recent years.

“You know, when I took over the team [Canada], I think Ismaël was a raw, talented person,” Marsch reflected. “And since then, I’ve talked to him a lot about discipline and concentration and everything from what that means in his daily life, in his nutrition, in his sleep habits, in the way he trains and the way he shows up every day, in the way he plays, in his overall intelligence.

“Going to Italy and playing for a team that was newly promoted, and having to fight through a situation like that in a very organized league, he’s played an incredibly important role in that team and had a great year.”

Sassuolo are already guaranteed top-flight survival and may even end the campaign in the top half of the Serie A table after a staggering first year since promotion. Koné could yet improve his personal development with a strong showing at this summer’s World Cup which will be co-hosted by Canada. De Zerbi’s home nation, Italy, would have been scheduled to face Marsch’s Maple Leafs in Toronto had they qualified for the tournament.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Canada’s Jesse Marsch Calls Out Premier League Manager As ‘Real Ass----’.

While official confirmations are still to come, kit leaks for the 2026–27 campaign are beginning to surface. Now the ball’s rolling, more and more information is set to head our way regarding colorways and designs.

Here’s an overview of all the leaked Premier League kits for the 2026–27 season.

Arsenal

This truly is a work of art. Who wants one? 😍 pic.twitter.com/0D8ES5nDIf

— Gooner Chris (@ArsenalN7) May 3, 2026

There may well be some golden Premier League badges to add to Arsenal’s attire for the 2026–27 campaign.

The reported home kit looks classic on the surface, but there are subtle details that render it more interesting. There’s a burgundy collar which also features a zig-zag pattern, for example, and it’s rare for Arsenal’s home attire to include multiple shades of red.

Few clubs have monetized the power of nostalgia quite like the Gunners, who will undoubtedly be plotting countless scores of spin-off designs released throughout the year to keep the cash rolling in.

Aston Villa

Initial leaks for Aston Villa’s 2026–27 kits suggest a drift from the norm.

The club’s new home kit has reportedly taken inspiration from their 1969 attire and is set to feature a sky blue collar on a polo-like design. It’s an interesting era for the club to hark back to, considering Villa were skulking around the bottom end of the Second Division. They would be relegated to the third tier in 1970.

Bournemouth

We’re delighted to announce a new multi-year partnership with Hummel – a club-record kit deal for #afcb ❤️🖤

— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) May 4, 2026

The only available details about Bournemouth’s new kit is that it will come with a fresh sponsor. The Cherries have ditched Umbro for Hummel, who have a long history of stylish soccer designs.

Brentford

A shared commitment to data-driven decision making, smart recruitment and talent development 🤝@Indeed, the #1 job site in the world, will be our new principal and front-of-shirt partner from the 26/27 season

— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) April 21, 2026

Brentford have ditched Hollywood Bets as their primary shirt sponsor, and Indeed, the “#1 job site in the world,” will instead dominate the front of next season’s attire.

A teaser image of their new home jersey for next season shows the continuation of their classic red and white stripes, and a subtle wave design has been worked into the jersey’s fabric.

Chelsea

💥 Chelsea x Nike 💥

🦁 New 26/27 Home Kit! pic.twitter.com/7BevcG3PRo

— Opaleak (@opaleak) April 5, 2026

Chelsea’s new home kit is expected to feature sharp yellow—or ’Midwest Gold’—accents to cut through the royal blue. The club’s familiar lion badge may very well be lightly layered across the center of the design and could take full billing if Chelsea continue their unsuccessful search for a permanent front-of-shirt sponsor.

The current incumbent, artificial intelligence firm IFS, was only signed in February and will expire at the end of the season. The Blues have lost millions by not signing a long-term sponsor in another example of BlueCo’s failed attempts to prove how much smarter they are than the rest of the soccer industry.

Leeds United

⚪🔵🟡 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄: Leeds United 26-27 Home Kit Leaked: https://t.co/sC6HR9ze70

— Footy Headlines (@Footy_Headlines) April 28, 2026

The Elland Road faithful are set to be treated to some unprecedented attire for the 2026–27 season. For the first time in the club’s history, Leeds United’s home shirt will feature horizontal stripes! Groundbreaking, we know.

There’s surely some inspiration from their 2005–06 Admiral shirt, which boasted vertical blue and yellow pinstripes.

Liverpool

🚨✅ 𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗘𝗗: Another leak has come out, this time revealing the look of the 2026/27 Liverpool jersey and its true colors up in person.

It honestly looks way better than expected. https://t.co/Q2PHz05DHK pic.twitter.com/YXoQgTwqeI

— LFC Transfer Room (@LFCTransferRoom) May 4, 2026

There’s already a strong grasp of how Liverpool will look in front of their own supporters next season, with the latest leaks pointing towards inspiration from the club’s iconic Candy-sponsored home shirt, worn between 1989–91. However, this iteration is believed to be much darker in tone—even compared to their 2025–26 home shirt.

The Candy vintage was the end of Liverpool’s great era of English dominance. When Sir Kenny Dalglish steered the club to the 1989–90 top-flight title, it represented the club’s 10th crown in 15 league seasons. They would not win another for 30 years. Arne Slot (or whoever is at the helm by the time the 2026–27 campaign gets underway) will be hoping for a shorter drought.

Manchester City

New images of #ManCity’s 2026/27 home shirt courtesy of @Footy_Headlines. 🔵⚪️ pic.twitter.com/14jlkaWBBv

— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) April 2, 2026

Puma have produced some quirky designs for Manchester City as of late, although the home kit has remained relatively classic.

The 2026–27 home shirt appears traditional for the most part, but there is some fading from sky blue to white at the bottom which may incentivize some fans to wear the matching white shorts.

Manchester United

🚨[𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗞] Manchester United 2026/27 Home Leaked Kit

Based on info from @Footy_Headlines #ManchesterUnited #Adidas #PremierLeague #leaked pic.twitter.com/xCHLKAyoHm

— RODEKITS (@Rode1Kits) January 22, 2026

Mock-ups of Bruno Fernandes donning Manchester United’s home kit for 2026–27 gained plenty of online traction, with the leak emerging in the wake of the Red Devils’ feel-good victory in the Manchester derby, Michael Carrick’s debut match of his second spell.

The majority are more than content with the leaked shirt, which features a clean-looking collar and white accents. Many may also be keen to see Carrick in charge of the team wearing this fresh look.

Newcastle United

LEAK: NEWCASTLE Home Kit 26/27 ⚡

Info: @grhaer9 / Footy headliners#Newcastle #adidas pic.twitter.com/1oaAblPx46

— El camisetorio (@El_camisetorio) February 2, 2026

The defining feature of Newcastle United’s kit is obvious: stripes. The black and white vertical bars have taken many different forms over the years and could be in line for another shakeup this season.

The latest leaks suggest that the Magpies may be in line for stripes of different sizes, with even narrowing black stripes bleeding out of each large chunk. Perhaps the brain behind the design is a keen physicist as it looks uncannily like the visual representation of the Doppler effect.

Tottenham Hotspur

#thfc Home Kit 26/27 has leaked.

The only design element of the kit is subtle diagonal striping on the body.

This design draws inspiration from the famous mid-1980s Hummels kits. pic.twitter.com/NvNfBjmE71

— Lilywhite Rose (@Lilywhite_Rose) March 31, 2026

Remarkably, there’s a genuine possibility that Tottenham Hotspur’s latest attire will be donned in the Championship. The latest leaks suggest the Premier League won’t be missing out on anything special, mind.

The 2026–27 home shirt boasts detail of relative intrigue: diagonal striping.

READ THE LATEST PREMIER LEAGUE NEWS, TRANSFER RUMORS & GOSSIP

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• Released VAR Audio of Disallowed West Ham Goal Sums Up Criticism of Arsenal
• Man City vs. Crystal Palace: Preview, Predictions and Lineups

This article was originally published on www.si.com as Premier League Kits: Confirmed and Leaked Home Jerseys for 2026–27 Season.

Premier League

While Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer has played down rumors of a move to Manchester United, there is still a belief that he would consider the transfer if an offer arrived. (Source: Daily Mail)

Liverpool have made an ambitious approach to Real Madrid over a move for Kylian Mbappé, who continues to divide opinion at the Bernabéu. (Source: Fichajes)

If Barcelona do not trigger their option to sign Marcus Rashford permanently, the winger will not be re-integrated back at Man Utd, who will look for a new buyer instead. (Source: The Sun)

Lyon winger Afonso Moreira is among those under consideration by Man Utd this summer. (Source: A BOLA)

Another player being considered by Man Utd is 19-year-old Prince Amoako Junior from Nordsjælland. Paris Saint-Germain are also interested in the young winger. (Source: MyJoy)

Darwin Núñez has an agreement to leave Al Hilal this summer. Chelsea and Juventus are both interested in bringing the former Liverpool forward back to Europe. (Source: El Observador)

A move to San Diego FC remains a possibility for departing Liverpool star Mohamed Salah, with owner Sir Mohamed Mansour continuing to push for an agreement. (Source: talkSPORT)

Arsenal have joined the race to sign Botafogo midfielder Danilo, who has recently been linked to Man Utd. (Source: Globo Esporte)

While Liam Delap wants to stay and fight for his place at Chelsea, the striker is of particular interest to Newcastle United, who are more likely to move for the Englishman than teammate Nicolas Jackson. (Source: GIVEMESPORT)

Aston Villa, Liverpool and Man Utd are all monitoring Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu ahead of a possible summer move. (Source: Mark Brus)

Juventus are moving quickly to try and strike a deal for Stuttgart midfielder Angelo Stiller before Man Utd have the chance to start a bidding war that the Red Devils will ultimately win. (Source: TuttoJuve)

A number of clubs towards the top of the Premier League are interested in signing West Ham United winger Crysencio Summerville. (Source: The Telegraph)

Phil Foden rejected interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Bayern Munich and clubs in Saudi Arabia in favor of signing a new contract with Manchester City. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Arsenal are readying a bid of $29 million (€25 million, £22 million) for PSV Eindhoven center back Yarek Gasiorowski, who is also of interest to Brentford, Atlético Madrid and Borussia Dortmund. (Source: SportsBoom)

La Liga

Vinicius Junior is not expected to leave Real Madrid this summer even if there is no resolution over his contract, which is set to expire in 2027. (Source: Ramón Álvarez de Mon)

The representatives of Chelsea center back Wesley Fofana have offered the Frenchman to Barcelona. The Blues would be open to selling for around $35 million (€30 million, £26 million) but Barça are instead exploring an initial loan. (Source: Sacha Tavolieri)

Fofana has made it clear he is keen to make the move to Camp Nou. (Source: Fichajes)

Mohamed Salah wants to remain in Europe when he leaves Liverpool and is keen to keep playing at the highest level. Real Madrid are leading the race for his signature. (Source: Mwatan)

Barcelona have doubts over Ferran Torres’s long-term suitability for the team and are ready to cash in this summer. The versatile forward is Newcastle’s top target. (Source: El Nacional)

Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. is unsure about extending his stay in Saudi Arabia as he dreams of playing in Europe. Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and PSG are all interested in the 15-year-old. (Source: The Sun)

READ THE LATEST TRANSFER RUMORS FROM THE PAST FEW DAYS

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• Transfer Rumors: Real Madrid Consider Bellingham Sale; Man City Eye Mbappe
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• Transfer Rumors: Liverpool Receive $140 Million Gravenberch Bid; Fernandez’s Real Madrid Ultimatum
• Transfer Rumors: Valverde, Tchouameni Receive Premier League Offers; De Gea Considers Man Utd Return

This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Liverpool Make Mbappe Approach; Real Madrid Lead Salah Race.

Premier League

Liverpool are preparing an offer of $94 million (€80 million, £69 million) to sign Barcelona right back Jules Koundé. (Source: El Nacional)

Paris Saint-Germain have identified Manchester City midfielder Rayan Cherki as a priority target for the summer transfer window. (Source: Fichajes)

Meanwhile, PSG have failed with an approach to Bayern Munich over winger Michael Olise, as have the Premier League quartet of Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Man City. Bayern simply have no interest in selling. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Federico Chiesa is so eager to leave Liverpool this summer that he is prepared to accept a paycut to return to Serie A. (Source: Calciomercato)

Manchester United have moved ahead of Atlético Madrid in pursuit of Atalanta’s Éderson. While Atléti are reluctant to meet Atalanta’s financial demands, the Red Devils have made it clear they would have no problem doing so. (Source: Tuttosport)

West Ham United’s bid to sign 26-year-old Paris FC center back Moustapha Mbow has been complicated by rival interest from Liverpool. (Source: RMC Sport)

Liverpool are ready to make an offer of $47 million (€40 million, £35 million) to sign RB Leipzig midfielder Assan Ouédraogo, although that offer is expected to fall short of his price tag. (Source: Fussballdaten)

Arsenal have given up hope of signing Atlético Madrid striker Julián Alvarez and have switched their focus to Real Madrid’s Endrick, with a bid of $117 million (€100 million, £86 million) being readied. (Source: Fichajes)

Chelsea sent scouts to watch Club Brugge center back Joel Ordóñez, 22, in action this weekend. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Arsenal have held positive talks with the entourage of Newcastle United defender Tino Livramento over a summer transfer. (Source: Football Transfers)

Nathan Aké is nearing a summer exit from Man City. A move to the Eredivisie is unlikely, however, with Aké instead preferring a switch to Serie A. AC Milan, Juventus and Roma are all interested. (Source: Voetbal International)

Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi “will do everything” to strike a double deal for Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar and midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini. (Source: Enrico Camelio)

Aston Villa’s interest in Fulham midfielder Harry Wilson has faded after the Welshman’s recent dip in form. (Source: Football Insider)

La Liga

Vinicius Junior wants significant assurances from Real Madrid before committing to a new contract. Aside from his salary, the Brazilian wants guarantees about the next manager and improvements in the culture of the club, having found himself considering an exit at times this season. (Source: MARCA)

Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has concerns about the dynamic between Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappé, the latter of whom’s recent behavior has also upset a number of his teammates. Significant offers for the Frenchman would be entertained this summer. (Source: Fichajes)

Barcelona believe they could strike a double deal for Chelsea left back Marc Cucurella and striker João Pedro for less than $117 million (€100 million, £86 million). (Source: El Nacional)

On the other hand, Chelsea’s refusal to do business over Pedro has seen Barcelona pivot to Gonçalo Ramos of PSG. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Juventus winger Kenan Yıldız is the dream signing of Real Madrid president Pérez. (Source: Gazzetta dello Sport)

While Barcelona do have interest in Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon, he is not seen as a priority target. The Magpies’ demands of $99 million (€85 million, £73 million), plus his high wage demands, put Gordon well out of Barça’s price range. (Source: MARCA)

READ THE LATEST TRANSFER RUMORS FROM THE PAST FEW DAYS

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• Transfer Rumors: Real Madrid Consider Bellingham Sale; Man City Eye Mbappe
• Transfer Rumors: Man Utd Decide Amad Future; Liverpool’s Shock Estevao Bid
• Transfer Rumors: Liverpool Receive $140 Million Gravenberch Bid; Fernandez’s Real Madrid Ultimatum
• Transfer Rumors: Valverde, Tchouameni Receive Premier League Offers; De Gea Considers Man Utd Return

This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Real Madrid Consider Mbappe Sale; Olise Offered Premier League Return.

Premier League

Manchester United have earmarked Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers as their preferred successor to Bruno Fernandes, while they are also chasing a deal for West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes. (Source: The Telegraph)

Man Utd co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to make a significant signing in midfield and is looking to strike a deal for Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde, but the Uruguay international is not interested in leaving the Bernabéu. (Source: El Nacional)

Another Real Madrid player, teenage striker Endrick, has been the subject of approaches from both Arsenal and Chelsea, but Los Blancos have firmly ruled out a sale. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Juventus have made Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson a top target for the summer. While the Reds are not looking to sell, they are beginning to scout possible replacements to prepare for a possible exit. (Source: Sky Sports)

Meanwhile, Juventus hope to send goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio to Tottenham Hotspur in a swap deal involving Destiny Udogie. (Source: Asromalive)

Newcastle United right back Tino Livramento is “convinced” he will seal a transfer to Arsenal this summer. (Source: HandofArsenal)

Aston Villa and Fenerbahçe are both interested in signing Napoli striker Romelu Lukaku after his fall-out with manager Antonio Conte. (Source: Fichajes)

As Newcastle prepare for the possible departure of Sandro Tonali, they have expressed an interest in signing Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones, who is also of interest to both Aston Villa and Inter. (Source: TEAMtalk)

On Liverpool’s shortlist as long-term replacements for center back Virgil van Dijk are Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck and Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni. (Source: Football Insider)

Liverpool have also shown “a lot of interest” in impending free agent Marcos Senesi of Bournemouth. (Source: Matteo Moretto)

Tottenham center back Micky van de Ven is set to be the subject of a $111 million (€95 million, £82 million) bid from Liverpool. (Source: Fichajes)

Chelsea goalkeeper Filip Jörgensen is open to accepting a move to Turkish giants Beşiktaş, who will try to land Arsenal’s Kepa Arrizabalaga if the Blues refuse to do business. (Source: Sabah)

Bournemouth will demand $82 million (€70 million, £60 million) to sell striker Eli Junior Kroupi amid interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Man Utd, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. (Source: SportsBoom)

La Liga

Barcelona are growing frustrated with Inter center back Alessandro Bastoni, believing he should be doing more to try and encourage his club to lower their asking price of $70 million (€60 million). (Source: SPORT)

Inter are actually trying to tie Bastoni down to a new contract and have set their asking price for the Italy international at $82 million (€70 million). (Source: El Nacional)

Real Madrid are plotting a move for Manchester City center back Joško Gvardiol, who has been tracked ever since being recommended to Los Blancos by Luka Modrić. (Source: Sportske novosti)

An unknown club in Saudi Arabia have made an offer of $235 million (€200 million) for Barcelona midfielder Pedri, who has no interest in accepting the proposal. (Source: Fichajes)

Real Madrid officials have taken the decision on the future of right back Dani Carvajal out of the club captain’s hands and have ruled out offering a new contract to the veteran, who will now depart on a free transfer. (Source: MARCA)

Coming in at Real Madrid could be a new left back. Ferland Mendy and Fran García could both be sold and doubts over Álvaro Carreras mean any replacement could be viewed as a potential starter. (Source: Defensa Central)

READ THE LATEST TRANSFER RUMORS FROM THE PAST FEW DAYS

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• Transfer Rumors: Real Madrid Consider Bellingham Sale; Man City Eye Mbappe
• Transfer Rumors: Man Utd Decide Amad Future; Liverpool’s Shock Estevao Bid
• Transfer Rumors: Liverpool Receive $140 Million Gravenberch Bid; Fernandez’s Real Madrid Ultimatum
• Transfer Rumors: Valverde, Tchouameni Receive Premier League Offers; De Gea Considers Man Utd Return

This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Man Utd Make Valverde Offer; Barcelona Receive $235 Million Pedri Bid.

After taking a deserved lead at Everton on Monday evening, it seemed to be a question of how many City would rack up. Yet, by the time Haaland dinked the ball over Jordan Pickford in the 83rd minute, he was halving the deficit after watching his team briefly tumble 3–1 down. Jérémy Doku, who opened the scoring with a lovely curling effort off his weaker left foot, would bookend the night with a mirror image goal from his right side.

City escaped with a point from the 3–3 draw, but in the context of the Premier League title race with Arsenal, it was ultimately a case of two dropped. Haaland is mathematically correct in his assertion: City are five points adrift of the Gunners having played one game fewer, but as his manager Pep Guardiola fretted: “It’s not in our hands.”

Opta’s supercomputer is not nearly as optimistic as City’s No. 9.

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Premier League Title Race

Arsenal have been Opta’s favorites for months. Even after City wrestled first spot from the Gunners with a win over Burnley in April, the Gunners were given the edge. Now that Mikel Arteta’s side have their destiny back in their own hands once again, their chances have swollen to a whopping 85.24%.

City have to rely upon Arsenal dropping points in at least one of their remaining three fixtures against West Ham United, Burnley and Crystal Palace, three opponents the north London outfit have already beaten in the Premier League this season.

The quality of Arsenal’s performance in their 3–0 thumping of Fulham on Saturday suggests that it should be a straightforward run-in, but rarely is soccer ever so simple. There is the intangible avalanche of nerves to consider as these players, who have suffered through three years of second-place finishes, try to end the club’s 22-year wait for top-flight glory. What’s more, none of their upcoming opponents will be as forgiving as a Fulham side struck down by a roster-wide virus.

Guardiola’s challengers can scarcely afford another slip-up. The calendar is working against City, who face four games in the space of 11 days, with an FA Cup final stuffed into the mix for good measure. Guardiola has already ceded the title once this season only to see his side race back into the mix and was in no mood to crown Arsenal champions just yet. “We have games left,” he pointed out on Monday. “We will see what happens.”

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Champions League Race

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It was a miserable weekend for West Ham. After repeatedly testing the structural integrity of Brentford’s goal frame during a misleading 3–0 defeat on Saturday, Tottenham actually put together a competent performance in victory over a weakened Aston Villa XI.

Nottingham Forest also rung the changes but still managed to comfortably thump Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Monday to move onto 42 points and effectively clear of the drop.

Spurs are only one point above West Ham but have been given such a sizeable advantage thanks to the nature of the two sides’ remaining opponents. While the Hammers host title-chasing Arsenal next weekend, Tottenham take on a Leeds United side who have all but secured their own survival.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Supercomputer Predicts Premier League Table After Man City’s Bonkers Everton Draw.

Premier League

In an unexpected twist, Arsenal have entered the race for Chelsea’s wantaway midfielder Enzo Fernández. The Gunners are so keen on the notable Real Madrid target they are supposedly willing to shatter the British transfer record with a bid of $175.9 million (£129.6 million, €150 million) for the World Cup winner. (Source: Fichajes)

Manchester United and Chelsea have been linked with a move for Sporting CP’s versatile wide man Maximiliano Araújo. (Source: CaughtOffside)

Mohamed Salah is giving “firm” consideration to a move to MLS once his Liverpool career ends in the summer. San Diego has been billed as the most likely U.S. destination. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Manchester City have attempted to hijack Manchester United and Liverpool’s pursuit of Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni with a $105.5 million (£77.8 million, €90 million) bid. (Source: Fichajes)

Bradley Barcola’s long list of suitors have been bolstered by murmurings from his representatives that the Paris Saint-Germain starlet is unsettled amid contract negotiations in the French capital. Arsenal and Liverpool will be particularly interested to learn of this development. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Tijjani Reijnders’s Manchester City career has been tipped for a premature conclusion after failing to impress Pep Guardiola. A move to Real Madrid has been mooted for the former AC Milan midfielder who is also garnering interest from Serie A. (Source: El Nacional)

Arsenal are tracking Belgian forward Mika Godts as a potential solution to their left wing problem. The 20-year-old has excelled in the Eredivisie for Ajax and would be open to a move to north London. (Source: Hand of Arsenal)

Well established Liverpool and Arsenal target Anthony Gordon has been in contact with Bayern Munich “for months.” Vincent Kompany has already approved the move and discussions over suitable terms are underway. The issue for Bayern would be his price tag, which has been set in the region of $101.8 million (£75 million) (Source: Florian Plettenberg)

Juventus have emerged as unexpected suitors for Real Madrid’s under-used youngster Franco Mastantuono this summer. Brighton & Hove Albion and Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked with the Argentine. (Source: Fichajes)

Liverpool’s defensive rebuild has already begun with contact made to the representatives of Brighton center back Jan Paul van Hecke. (Source: TEAMtalk)

La Liga

Real Madrid have begun planning for a future without Thibaut Courtois by lining up a $58.6 million (€50 million) bid for Porto’s revered shot-stopper Diogo Costa. (Source: Fichajes)

Gonzalo García is the latest Madrid player to be added to the list of sales José Mourinho has drawn up in the event of his return in the summer. Veteran defenders David Alaba and Dani Carvajal are set for a scrapheap shared with midfielders Dani Ceballos, Eduardo Camavinga and Brahim Díaz. Left back Fran García is also tipped for an exit. (Source: El Nacional)

Manchester United are vying with Saudi Arabia’s top teams for the signature of Barcelona star forward Raphinha this summer. (Source: Fichajes)

PSG are eyeing up Real Madrid’s prodigious young center back Joan Martínez. The teenager boasts a contract with a $175.9 million (€150 million) release clause although any deal is expected to be struck for far less than that sum. (Source: MARCA)

Dean Huijsen’s Real Madrid future is set to come under scrutiny during the summer as the waning capital outfit plot a major defensive overhaul, with as many as three new faces arriving at the Bernabéu. (Source: El Nacional)

In the club’s hurried quest to secure Mohamed Salah’s successor, Liverpool are prepared to splash $52.8 million (£38.9 million, €45 million) on Barcelona’s second-string right winger Roony Bardghji. The dethroned Premier League champions are eager to strike a deal before the World Cup begins. (Source: Fichajes)

READ THE LATEST TRANSFER RUMORS FROM THE PAST FEW DAYS

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Arsenal’s Ridiculous Fernandez Bid; Mourinho Plots Seven Real Madrid Exits.

Almost as thrilling as the title race between Arsenal and Manchester City has been the chaotic fight to stay up in the English top flight. At one point, Leeds United, Nottingham Forest, Tottenham and West Ham United were all in contention to join Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Championship next season.

As the 2025–26 campaign comes to a close, though, the relegation battle has become a two-horse race between Spurs and the Hammers. Heading into Gameweek 35, the latter had the edge in 17th place over Roberto De Zerbi’s men, but two monumental swings saw the two clubs switch places.

West Ham suffered a lopsided 3–0 defeat to Brentford on Saturday, opening the door for Tottenham to leapfrog them into safety with a win at Villa Park—and they emphatically delivered.

With only three matches left, here’s how the Opta supercomputer predicts the final relegation battle to play out in the Premier League.

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Premier League Relegation Battle

Relegation Richy is inevitable. pic.twitter.com/GgiXxewyVy

— Sports Illustrated FC (@SI_FootballClub) May 3, 2026

Leeds United are well on their way to safety after securing a 3–1 victory over Burnley on Friday. The three points took Daniel Farke’s side to 14th in the table, seven points clear of the drop zone. Although Opta expects the Whites to finish a place below where they currently sit, the club will have little complaints.

Below them are Nottingham Forest, who must wait until Monday to take on Chelsea. Even just a point at Stamford Bridge would see the Tricky Trees reach the magical 40-point mark that typically is enough to stay up. The supercomputer backs Vítor Pereira’s men to indeed remain safe, giving them just a 2.29% chance of relegation.

The real drama comes with Tottenham. Spurs have now tallied back-to-back league victories to obtain a slight cushion in 17th place. Still, they are by no means out of the woods and have 22.48% odds of being relegation for the first time since 1977.

Tottenham’s biggest competitors are West Ham. This weekend’s stumble put the Hammers in the danger zone, prompting Opta to put an overwhelming 75.09% chance on Nuno Espírito Santo’s side playing in the Championship in 2025–26.

Around just a single point is predicted to be the difference between Tottenham and West Ham, though, which means it could come down to the final matchday to ultimately see which side joins Burnley and Wolves in the second tier next season.

READ THE LATEST PREMIER LEAGUE NEWS, ANALYSIS AND INSIGHT FROM SI FC

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Supercomputer Predicts Premier League Relegation Battle After Tottenham, West Ham Role Reversal.

We may revisit that assumption should Forest succumb to Chelsea on Monday afternoon, especially with their Europa League focus and domestic fixtures that lie ahead.

Anyway, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United; who’d have thought it, eh? Even if Spurs finished 17th last season and the Hammers obviously weren’t going anywhere with Graham Potter in charge, only Nostradamus could’ve foreshadowed an existential battle between the pair during the final month of the season.

West Ham’s momentum stalled at Brentford over the weekend, leaving the door ajar for Roberto De Zerbi’s Lilywhites, who carved out a crucial 2–1 win over Aston Villa to climb above their capital foes and out of the relegation zone.

Here’s how the remaining matches look for the protagonists of the dramatic relegation battle.

Tottenham and West Ham’s Remaining Premier League Fixtures Compared

While Tottenham supporters have actively rooted against their own to ensure previous Arsenal Premier League title bids have gone up in smoke, the fanbase should be unified in their support of the Gunners next weekend.

Victory for Mikel Arteta’s side in east London would greatly aid their survival bid, especially as they’re hosting a Leeds United team that may be taking their foot off the gas in May, given that they’re pretty much safe.

A result for West Ham could hand Man City the title, so it wouldn’t be all bad news for the Lilywhites, but it’d make their task of staying up considerably more difficult. Imagine the pressure they’ll be under for that Monday night fixture. Woof.

After that, Spurs visit Stamford Bridge in a midweek clash after Chelsea’s FA Cup final with Manchester City. It’s a fixture that will evoke memories of the “Battle of the Bridge” from a decade ago, when the Blues fought back from 2–0 down to earn the point that sealed the league title for miracle-workers Leicester City.

West Ham are up at Newcastle United on the penultimate weekend, perhaps encouraged by their win at St. James’ Park last season. Newcastle did stop the rot against Brighton & Hove Albion, but won’t be playing for much in their final home outing of 2025–26.

Both teams are at home on the final day, with Spurs welcoming Everton to N17, and West Ham facing Leeds.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as How Tottenham’s Remaining Fixtures Compare to West Ham’s After Huge Aston Villa Win.

Premier League

Manchester United are interested in signing Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane this summer, but the Bundesliga side still expect him to ink a new contract instead. (Source: Football Insider)

Climbing towards the top of Man Utd’s wishlist is AC Milan winger Christian Pulisic, who is seen as a potential bargain as he approaches the final year of his contract. The Serie A side do have a 12-month extension clause but are not believed to be in talks over fresh terms. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Man Utd are also expected to make a move for Botafogo midfielder Danilo. The 25-year-old has been earmarked as a potential replacement for the departing Casemiro. (Source: FogãoNET)

Liverpool will look at both RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande and Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola on their search for attacking reinforcements. (Source: The Times)

Arsenal believe a bid of around $117 million (€100 million, £86 million) would be enough to convince Atlético Madrid to sell striker Julián Alvarez. (Source: La Nacion)

Rico Lewis will be allowed to leave Manchester City this summer for a fee of around $40 million (£30 million). (Source: Real Tolmie’s Hairdoo)

Brentford are aware of interest in striker Igor Thiago from Atlético Madrid, AC Milan, Chelsea and Juventus, and will demand a fee of $109 million (£80 million) to sell the Brazilian. (Source: Felipe Silva)

Marc Guiu is frustrated with his lack of minutes at Chelsea and wants to return to La Liga, but the Blues are pushing for a loan to another Premier League side. (Source: Mundo Deportivo)

The trio of Chelsea, Man Utd and Newcastle United are all tracking Aston Villa loanee Donyell Malen, who has caught the eye of Roma. (Source: Corriere dello Sport)

Arsenal, Leeds United and Liverpool are all battling for the signature of Borussia Dortmund left back Daniel Svensson, who also has interest from AC Milan, Atalanta and Inter. (Source: Fussballdaten)

Liverpool are looking at Sporting CP’s Gonçalo Inácio as a long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk but may have to fend off interest from Man Utd, Barcelona and Real Madrid. (Source: Football Insider)

Also on Liverpool’s radar is Brighton & Hove Albion center back Jan Paul van Hecke. (Source: Joost Blaauwhof)

Galatasaray have reignited their interest in Man Utd midfielder Manuel Ugarte to go alongside their pursuit of captain Bruno Fernandes. (Source: Turkish-Football)

Newcastle are looking to strike a deal for West Ham United center back Konstaninos Mavropanos, who is open to leaving the club this summer. (Source: SportsBoom)

La Liga

Real Madrid hope to use Borussia Dortmund’s interest in striker Gonzalo García to aid their pursuit of center back Nico Schlotterbeck. (Source: Fichajes)

Clubs in Saudi Arabia are ready to pay as much as $105 million (€90 million) to sign Barcelona winger Raphinha, with an annual salary of $35 million (€30 million) also on the table in the Middle East. (Source: El Pais)

Real Madrid could look to sign Man City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, who is expected to be available for a fee of around $68 million (£50 million, €58 million). (Source: El Nacional)

Barcelona could fund a summer shopping spree through the sale of five players. Offers will be considered for defenders Ronald Araujo, Alejandro Balde and Jules Koundé alongside midfielder Marc Casadò and winger Roony Bardghji. (Source: AS)

Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli has doubts over a potential return to Barcelona as he does not want to accept a role as anything other than a regular starter. (Source: SPORT)

Tottenham Hotspur have offered $29 million (€25 million, £22 million) to sign Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Díaz, who could be allowed to leave after a disappointing run with the team. (Source: Fichajes)

READ THE LATEST TRANSFER RUMORS FROM THE PAST FEW DAYS

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• Transfer Rumors: Liverpool Receive $140 Million Gravenberch Bid; Fernandez’s Real Madrid Ultimatum
• Transfer Rumors: Valverde, Tchouameni Receive Premier League Offers; De Gea Considers Man Utd Return

This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Man Utd Step Up Pulisic Interest; Barcelona Receive $105 Million Raphinha Bid.

Saturday’s emphatic 3–0 win over Fulham saw Mikel Arteta’s side move six points clear at the top of the table, but things are not as they seem. Manchester City, having only recently tied things up in the games played column, are two matches behind once again.

That gap of six points could easily have shrunk to zero by the time Arsenal next play in the Premier League, proving it really is all to play for at this tense stage of the season.

With the crowning of a champion inching ever closer, the Opta supercomputer has offered up a prediction for the conclusion of this fascinating title race.

Supercomputer Predicts Premier League Title Race

On paper, Arsenal are in an imposing position. A six-point lead over Manchester City warns Pep Guardiola’s side that they must be perfect over their next two games if they want to match their pace. A 3–0 win over Fulham also did wonders for the Gunners’ goal difference.

This pressure is nothing new to City, who begin the latest chapter of their title charge away at Everton on Monday. They then host Brentford on Saturday, one day before Arsenal’s next Premier League game, at which point the two sides would be tied up on games once again.

Supercomputer Predicts Champions League Race

Manchester United can confirm their spot in next season’s Champions League with victory over Liverpool on Sunday. Michael Carrick’s side are in an imposing position and have long known their spot in Europe’s top competition is waiting for them.

Aston Villa and Liverpool are separated by less than a single point in the simulation, but neither side will care particularly. Both threatened to be dragged into a battle for their place in the Champions League, so there will be few tears among the fanbase that ends up fifth.

However, Villa’s final position could be massive. If Unai Emery’s side slip to fifth but end the season lifting the Europa League, then the team that finishes sixth will sneak into the Champions League as well. As it stands, that honor would go to Brighton & Hove Albion.

Bournemouth and Brentford are still on the outside looking up, while Chelsea are just focused on securing any form of European action next season after a miserable slump under Liam Rosenior saw them tumble down the standings.

Supercomputer Predicts Premier League Relegation Battle

We already know Wolverhampton Wanderers and Burnley are heading down to the Championship, to be replaced by Coventry City and Ipswich Town.

The identity of the team joining them in the second tier remains to be determined. Tottenham Hotspur are currently backed for the drop, although victory over Aston Villa in Sunday’s late game would actually see Roberto De Zerbi’s side climb out of the relegation zone with four games left to play.

West Ham United’s 3–0 defeat to Brentford was not entirely unexpected but was still incredibly frustrating for Hammers fans, who know their fate is not currently in their hands.

With all this going on beneath them, Nottingham Forest are perilously close to putting their feet up and starting their planning for the 2026–27 Premier League season.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Supercomputer Predicts Premier League Table After Arsenal’s Statement Victory Over Fulham.

Premier League

Manchester United are interested in signing West Ham United left back El Hadji Malick Diouf. (Source: talkSPORT)

Meanwhile, it is Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde who is Man Utd’s “dream” target at left back. Agent Jorge Mendes is trying to strike a deal and has proposed a swap deal that would send center back Leny Yoro to Camp Nou. (Source: Attacking Football)

Chelsea have reached out to the representatives of Manchester City center back Abdukodir Khusanov over a summer transfer. (Source: Aarón Ramiro)

Sticking around at Chelsea could be another center back, Trevoh Chalobah. The Blues have opened talks over a new contract for the homegrown defender. (Source: Nicolò Schira)

Frank Lampard is eyeing a reunion with Man Utd midfielder Mason Mount at newly promoted Coventry City next season. (Source: Si Phillips)

Arsenal have taken the lead in pursuit of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande by offering a huge salary that would make them impossible to reject. (Source: Fichajes)

Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur have both approached AC Milan over the availability of midfielder Youssouf Fofana, who is expected to leave the Italian side. (Source: Gazzetta dello Sport)

Man City are ready to sell defender Nathan Aké this summer but their asking price of over $12 million (£9 million) is a problem for suitors AC Milan, Inter and Juventus. (Source: Tuttomercatoweb)

Sandro Tonali has no interest in returning to Serie A this summer. The Newcastle United midfielder hopes to continue his career in the Premier League, where several clubs are interested in signing him. (Source: Fabrizio Romano)

Liverpool are seriously interested in signing Sporting CP winger Francisco Trincão, who is available for his $70 million (€60 million, £52 million) release clause. (Source: Anfield Index)

Martin Ødegaard could leave Arsenal this summer after struggling for form. Aston Villa are keen to keep the Norway captain in the Premier League, while he also has admirers in Serie A. (Source: Fichajes)

Chelsea have made it clear that they have no interest in selling striker João Pedro this summer amid interest from Barcelona. (Source: ESPN Brasil)

La Liga

To fend off interest from Real Madrid, Galatasaray are demanding $175 million (€150 million) to sell striker Victor Osimhen, whose situation is also being tracked by Arsenal, Liverpool, Barcelona and Juventus. (Source: AS)

Barcelona want revenge on Paris Saint-Germain for signing teenage star Dro Fernández and are looking to sign 17-year-old right back David Boly from the French side. (Source: SPORT)

The two rivals could butt heads elsewhere this summer, with both Barcelona and PSG interested in signing Borussia Dortmund’s 18-year-old forward Samuele Inácio. (Source: BILD)

On Real Madrid’s list of long-term replacements for goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois are AC Milan’s Mike Maignan, Brighton & Hove Albion’s Bart Verbruggen and Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel, but it is Porto’s Diogo Costa who is the top target. (Source: El Nacional)

Brahim Díaz faces an uncertain future at Real Madrid, who are considering selling the midfielder after an underwhelming run of form. (Source: Defensa Central)

Bernardo Silva wants to join Barcelona this summer when his Man City contract expires and his agent, Jorge Mendes, is working to try and reach an agreement with the La Liga leaders. (Source: SPORT)

READ THE LATEST TRANSFER RUMORS FROM THE PAST FEW DAYS

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• Transfer Rumors: Real Madrid Consider Bellingham Sale; Man City Eye Mbappe
• Transfer Rumors: Man Utd Decide Amad Future; Liverpool’s Shock Estevao Bid
• Transfer Rumors: Liverpool Receive $140 Million Gravenberch Bid; Fernandez’s Real Madrid Ultimatum
• Transfer Rumors: Valverde, Tchouameni Receive Premier League Offers; De Gea Considers Man Utd Return

This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Man Utd’s Shock Yoro Swap; Odegaard Wanted by Premier League Rivals.

Fortunately, every week is a new opportunity to shoot up the standings, and a host of intriguing fixtures offer the potential for major returns from the traditional big-hitters and a range of differentials.

Strategy is crucial at this point in the campaign, especially for managers with chips remaining. Each team finds itself in a unique position, but some picks appear essential for all squads in Gameweek 35.

Here are those worthy of selection before Friday’s deadline.

Goalkeepers

Within the unglamorous world of goalkeepers, David Raya (£6.0m) remains king. The highest-scoring stopper produced a 10-point haul last weekend and remains fantastic value, allowing managers to double up on the Arsenal defense. Against Fulham (H) this Saturday, who have blanked in four of their last six league games, another clean sheet is on the cards.

At the other end of the price scale is Leeds United’s Karl Darlow (£3.9m). Having delivered 24 points across his last five games, an appetizing fixture with already relegated Burnley (H) this weekend adds to his appeal—and that of his Leeds teammates. He’s a great enabler and double act alongside Raya.

With one eye on double Gameweek 36 in which Crystal Palace play twice, Dean Henderson (£5.1m) is worth exploring. This Sunday’s game against Bournemouth (A) isn’t the greatest, but his arrival allows managers to profit from his two fixtures in the next round. There’s always the chance of a clean sheet at the Vitality Stadium, too.

Defenders

Aside from the must-have Gabriel (£7.2m), Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly (£5.1m) is now in the territory of an essential pick. With the Cityzens the other side enjoying a double gameweek in the next round, the left back becomes even more enticing, especially following 27 points from his past three fixtures. The clash with low-scoring Everton (A) on Monday provides another appealing opportunity for points.

Crystal Palace defenders will be desirable this week, Jaydee Canvot (£4.5m) and Chris Richards (£4.4m) offering cheap routes into their backline, while the more expensive Daniel Muñoz (£5.8m) has the upside of greater attacking potential. The Colombian even scored in the defeat at Liverpool last weekend.

Leeds’ strong fixture makes James Justin (£3.9m) their standout defensive pick, although Jayden Bogle (£4.4m) and Pascal Struijk (£4.3m) are also quality options.

Bournemouth remain worth investing in, too, with James Hill (£4.2m) and Adrien Truffert (£4.7m) great choices at low prices.

Midfielders

There is only one truly essential midfield pick at present: Bruno Fernandes (£10.4m). The Manchester United skipper is chasing the Premier League assist record for a single season and has delivered returns in each of his past seven matches. Even in a tricky fixture with rivals Liverpool (H) this weekend, he should still reward managers.

Arsenal don’t have too many reliable attacking threats, but Eberechi Eze (£7.2m) has grown in importance and could follow up his goal against Newcastle with another return in the Fulham clash. The Englishman was only used from the bench midweek in Europe and made a swift impact, meaning he’s likely to start on Saturday.

Rayan Cherki (£6.5m) is the most appealing Man City midfielder at present, offering a cheap and effective route to points. The Frenchman has become indispensable for Pep Guardiola and has managed 23 points across his last three matches. Everton will be worried about his ingenuity.

Ahead of the double gameweek, Ismaïla Sarr (£6.3m) is worth investing in. While his minutes are a slight risk following Thursday’s Conference League semifinal first leg, he’s the leading threat for the Eagles.

Noah Okafor (£5.6m) is currently thriving for Leeds and should feature on Friday against Burnley despite a slight injury concern. Enzo Fernández (£6.5m) has enjoyed life during his brief spell under Calum McFarlane and is an option in the Chelsea team ahead of Monday’s clash with Nottingham Forest (H).

Forwards

Erling Haaland (£14.5m) is an essential pick following his recent goalscoring exploits, but there are some interesting options available to partner the Man City star.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin (£5.7m) has the potential to haul against Burnley, especially after the recent dismissal of Scott Parker. The Clarets have completely given up and Leeds are ready to take full advantage as they look to step closer to safety.

West Ham United are another team in desperate need of points toward the foot of the table and Jarrod Bowen (£7.8m) continues to deliver for them. While most of his points come on home soil, including 24 across his past two games at the London Stadium, a clash with Brentford (A) remains a decent fixture for the England international.

João Pedro (£7.5m) could punish a fatigued Forest defense, who were in action on Thursday night. His compatriot Igor Thiago (£7.4m) could reward backers against West Ham after his series of dismal misses at Old Trafford last time out.

When Is the FPL Gameweek 35 Deadline?

Leeds vs. Burnley is staged on Friday night, meaning the GW35 deadline arrives at 6:30 p.m. BST (1:30 p.m. ET, 10:30 a.m. PT) on May 1.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as 2025–26 FPL: Best Players to Pick for Gameweek 35.

Monday’s bank holiday in the United Kingdom facilitates two matches, while a battle toward the foot of the table gets the ball rolling on Friday night. In between, there is plenty of consequential entertainment.

The title race between Arsenal and Manchester City will once again dominate headlines across the gameweek, as will the increasingly nervy relegation scrap. European spots are still up for grabs, too.

With plenty to play for, here’s how Sports Illustrated thinks Premier League gameweek 35 could pan out. Click here to see the latest version of this article.

Leeds United 3–1 Burnley

• Date: Friday, May 1
• Time: 8 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT

Leeds United kicked off the round with a big 3–1 win over Burnley that has effectively secured their place in next season’s Premier League.

Anton Stach’s low drive from range opened the scoring after just eight minutes, before a quickfire double from Noah Okafor and Dominic Calvert-Lewin shortly before the hour mark took the game away from Burnley.

Loum Tchaouna did pull one back for the relegated visitors but it was little more than a consolation.

Brentford vs. West Ham United

• Date: Saturday, May 2
• Time: 3 p.m. BST / 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT

Callum Wilson was West Ham United’s stoppage-time hero last weekend, clinching the 17th-placed Irons victory over Everton and ensuring they stayed ahead of rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the relegation dogfight.

The result means the Hammers are one point clear of Spurs and unbeaten in three matches, but face an awkward assignment at the Gtech Community Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Brentford are their hosts and motivated by a push for European qualification in a congested league table.

West Ham are at the point of the campaign where victories become gold dust, but even a point across London wouldn’t be the worst outcome. Brentford have been draw specialists in recent weeks and might participate in yet another stalemate this weekend.

Prediction: Brentford 1–1 West Ham

Newcastle United vs. Brighton & Hove Albion

• Date: Saturday, May 2
• Time: 3 p.m. BST / 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT

The vultures are circling at St James’ Park, Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe the prey. A disastrous domestic campaign means the Magpies are only eight points clear of the drop zone, despite harboring ambitions of Champions League qualification at the start of the term.

Howe’s position is under serious threat and the visit of Brighton & Hove Albion is the last thing he needs. The Seagulls top the form table after 13 points from their last five matches and are flying high after a recent 3–0 win over Chelsea.

European qualification remains on the table for Fabian Hürzeler’s resurgent side, who appear likely to pile further misery on Howe and his players in the process of securing another victory.

Prediction: Newcastle 1–2 Brighton

Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Sunderland

Wolves and Sunderland could hardly have played out more contrasting campaigns. The former have endured a rotten year, demoted to the Championship with little resistance, while the latter have wildly upset the odds and still remain active in the hunt for a stunning European berth.

Motivation lies with Molineux’s visitors on Saturday, who will need to respond swiftly to their 5–0 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest last time out. Thankfully, they face a Wolves team that have failed to score in their last three and have completely given up even playing for pride.

Sunderland have proven an unpredictable beast in recent weeks, but they should get back on track from successive defeats by triumphing in the West Midlands.

• Date: Saturday, May 2
• Time: 3 p.m. BST / 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT

Prediction: Wolves 0–2 Sunderland

Arsenal vs. Fulham

• Date: Saturday, May 2
• Time: 5:30 p.m. BST / 12:30 p.m. ET / 9:30 a.m. PT

The headline act of Saturday’s schedule, Arsenal must once again overcome the growing pressure when they host fellow Londoners Fulham. The Gunners kept their nerve to narrowly beat Newcastle last weekend, and they now have the chance to move six points clear of chasers Man City before Pep Guardiola’s side take to the field on Monday.

Arsenal’s midweek excursion in Madrid for their Champions League semifinal has taken some energy out of the tank, but Mikel Arteta has a deep squad to call upon—one boosted by the recent return of key personnel.

Fulham are among the cohort fighting for Europe, buoyed by last weekend’s win over Aston Villa, but they have been far from scintillating in recent matches. Struggling for creativity will be a major issue against the division’s sturdiest defense.

Any slip-up could prove fatal for the Gunners, but they should clinch another vital victory—no matter how nervy.

Prediction: Arsenal 2–0 Fulham

Bournemouth vs. Crystal Palace

• Date: Sunday, May 3
• Time: 2 p.m. BST / 9 a.m. ET / 6 a.m. PT

Bournemouth and Crystal Palace find themselves in similar predicaments heading into the final weeks. Both will be forced to rebuild this summer when their head coaches depart, Oliver Glasner and Andoni Iraola moving on to pastures new.

Hopefully, the two in-demand managers can deliver a spectacle similar to that witnessed at Selhurst Park back in October, Jean-Philippe Mateta completing his hat trick in the 97th minute to secure a 3–3 draw for the Eagles.

A stalemate is often the outcome when Bournemouth take to the field, their 16 draws from 34 games by far the highest in the division. After Thursday night’s Conference League semifinal first leg, Palace might be happy with a point.

Prediction: Bournemouth 1–1 Crystal Palace

Manchester United vs. Liverpool

• Date: Sunday, May 3
• Time: 3:30 p.m. BST / 10:30 a.m. ET / 7:30 a.m. PT

The stakes are not at their highest for Sunday’s clash between bitter adversaries Manchester United and Liverpool. Both sides appear likely to secure a Champions League berth at the end of testing seasons, leaving bragging rights as the prevailing motivator at Old Trafford.

Man Utd currently have hold of them after their dramatic victory at Anfield earlier this term, but Liverpool have enjoyed some memorable wins away at the Red Devils in recent years, including their 3–0 triumph in Arne Slot’s debut term.

Neither team are operating at their absolute peak, but the combination of home advantage and greater self-belief could result in a hard-fought victory for Man Utd this weekend.

Liverpool may well have won their last three league games, but they remain unconvincing in attack and defense. Man Utd appear primed to punish the Reds in the way Fulham, Everton and Crystal Palace couldn’t, despite encouragement.

Prediction: Man Utd 2–1 Liverpool

Aston Villa vs. Tottenham Hotspur

• Date: Sunday, May 3
• Time: 7 p.m. BST / 2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT

Things are becoming increasingly desperate for Tottenham. Even their first Premier League victory of 2026 couldn’t lift them out of the relegation zone last weekend, and a trip to fifth-placed Aston Villa will have downtrodden supporters fearing the worst—especially if Leeds and West Ham can win before they play.

Spurs have look slightly improved under Roberto De Zerbi, but it’s an incredibly low bar. Injuries continue to decimate their playing squad and they were indebted to a rare João Palhinha goal to squeak past Wolves last time out.

In more bad news, they have lost twice to Villa already this season, both 2–1 defeats on home soil. Providing Unai Emery’s side aren’t totally spent from their Europa League semifinal on Thursday night, they remain significant favorites as they look to secure Champions League qualification.

Prediction: Aston Villa 1–0 Tottenham

Chelsea vs. Nottingham Forest

• Date: Monday, May 4
• Time: 3 p.m. BST / 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT

Chelsea began life without Liam Rosenior in the best way imaginable, interim head coach Calum McFarlane guiding the Blues to the FA Cup final last weekend. Whether they can follow up their win over Leeds when facing an in-form Nottingham Forest side remains to be seen.

The Blues appear incredibly unlikely to make the Champions League via a top-five finish following their recent string of dismal results, but a victory could keep their slim hopes alive. They will also be eager to build some momentum before the FA Cup final against Man City.

The result is more significant for Forest, who are just five points above the relegation zone and still in the scrap. Having been in Europa League action on Thursday, fatigue may play its part in a narrow Stamford Bridge defeat.

Prediction: Chelsea 2–1 Nottingham Forest

Everton vs. Manchester City

• Date: Monday, May 4
• Time: 8 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT

Man City will be watching Arsenal’s match with bated breath before they return to league action against Everton on Monday night. Fresh from surviving an almighty scare in the FA Cup semifinal at the hands of Southampton, they must refocus on usurping the Gunners at the summit.

As mentioned, there could be a six-point gap needing to be overturned by the Cityzens come their trip to the Hill Dickinson Stadium. While they still have a game in hand on their rivals, they simply can’t afford anything but a perfect run down the stretch.

Everton’s home form has been uninspiring this season and that will offer City encouragement, but David Moyes’s team have the capacity to be tricky customers. Defensively stubborn and indefatigable, they will cause Pep Guardiola’s men issues.

Any win will do for City—and they should get over the line.

Prediction: Everton 0–1 Man City

Premier League Predictions: Gameweek 35

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Premier League Predictions: Gameweek 35.

Premier League

In their continued pursuit of AC Milan winger Rafael Leão, Manchester United would consider offering up a player in return. Joshua Zirkzee was the first name to be floated, while Milan would also be intrigued by Marcus Rashford and Manuel Ugarte. (Source: Gazzetta dello Sport)

Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard is supposedly no longer considered to be “unsellable” by Mikel Arteta. Inter and Aston Villa have both been credited with interest in the technical, tactical and literal leader in north London. (Source: Fichajes)

Manchester United are prepared to offer a package worth up to $70.2 million (£52 million, €60 million) for Chelsea fullback Marc Cucurella. (Source: El Nacional)

Liverpool and Manchester United would be expected to pay somewhere in the region of $93.6–105.3 million (£69.3–78 million, €80–90 million) for Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni. (Source: CaughtOffside)

Lille’s highly coveted teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi is the darling of Europe’s elite. Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are all chasing the wispy midfielder but Manchester United could have the edge by enlisting the services of legendary former manager Sir Alex Ferguson as part of a charm offensive. (Source: Abdellah Boulma)

Liverpool have rejected an initial approach from Juventus for starting goalkeeper Alisson. The Merseyside outfit are keen on retaining their No. 1 who is thought to be open to a move. (Source: Indykaila)

Forgotten Chelsea loanee Nicolas Jackson will end his temporary stay at Bayern Munich in the summer and has been linked with a switch to Serie A. Both Milan and Juventus have been listed as potential destinations. (Source: Calciomercato)

Atlético Madrid are sniffing around Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly. In a bid to raise funds, the academy gem has been made available for sale, but only at a price of $58.5 million (£43.3 million, €50 million) which has sparked some caution in the Spanish capital. (Source: Fichajes)

Chelsea’s search for a new goalkeeper has led them to the door of Borussia Dortmund shot-stopper Gregor Kobel. However, there is expected to be rival interest from Manchester United. (Source: Fussball Daten)

Arsenal are monitoring a potential return for their former player Serge Gnabry. In the event that Bayern Munich win the competitive race for Anthony Gordon, the Germany international could be available for as little as $35.1 million (£26 million, €30 million). (Source: SportsBoom)

After announcements from Bernardo Silva and John Stones, Nathan Aké is leaning towards a Manchester City farewell of his own. Milan could potentially serve as a landing spot for the Dutch defender. (Source: Calciomercato)

La Liga

Amid eye-watering figures getting thrown out by Saudi Pro League clubs, Barcelona are giving “serious” consideration to selling Raphinha this summer. (Source: Fichajes)

Al Nassr had a $105.3 million (€90 million) approach for Raphinha rebuffed last summer but Cristiano Ronaldo’s side are thought to retain an interest in the Brazilian, which has only been heightened by Barcelona’s reported stance. (Source: El Nacional)

Juventus are mulling over a potential approach for Real Madrid forward Gonzalo García, who has attracted interest from inside Turin since January. (Source: Tuttosport)

Much to the dismay of Hansi Flick, Barcelona are considering offloading Fermín López. The former Chelsea target could raise as much as €100 million) to fund the arrival of Alessandro Bastoni and Julián Alvarez this summer. (Source: El Nacional)

Former Barcelona academy graduate Sergi Domínguez could find his way back to Catalonia in the summer after impressing for Dinamo Zagreb this season. (Source: Fichajes)

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The off-season promises to be one of change at the Bernabéu following a disappointing campaign, which now appears destined to end without any trophy for the first time since 2021.

Álvaro Arbeloa is tipped to depart, while there could a number of changes to both the roster and the hierarchy as Florentino Pérez looks to navigate a period of transition.

On the pitch, few areas need closer attention than at center back. Los Blancos are on a run of nine games without a clean sheet in all competitions, while Éder Militão’s latest injury setback has only further highlighted the club’s lack of solidity at the back.

Antonio Rüdiger should get a contract extension, in spite of his fitness also needing to be carefully managed, but Raúl Asencio and David Alaba are seemingly on their way out.

Highly rated starlets like Joan Martínez and Diego Aguado wait in the wings for opportunities next season, but regardless of any internal promotions, Madrid are set to prioritize bringing in at least one new center back when the transfer window opens.

Here are nine options Real Madrid could target this summer.

9. John Stones

Real Madrid love a market opportunity (read: freebie) more than most.

With John Stones’s Manchester City contract set to expire this summer, the England international does tick a lot of boxes for Madrid. Hugely experienced dressing room leader, check. Massive medals cabinet, check. Great with the ball at his feet, check.

However, the absolute last thing Madrid need right now is another aging defender who simply cannot stay fit.

With seven separate injuries in the last two seasons alone, totaling over 50 games missed, Stones is one to swerve.

Likelihood: 1/10

8. Ibrahima Konaté

Madrid’s chances of poaching a Liverpool defender in consecutive summers appear to be fading fast.

It was long predicted that Ibrahima Konaté would follow the example of Trent Alexander-Arnold in leaving Anfield for the Bernabéu upon the expiry of his contract, but a late twist indicates that the France international is set to remain in England.

Speaking in April, the former RB Leipzig center back said of his precarious situation: “We are close to an agreement ... There is a big chance I’m here next season.”

Barring another plot twist, the Konaté file appears to be closed.

Likelihood: 2/10

7. Alessandro Bastoni

Aerially dominant and a pinpoint passer, Alessandro Bastoni is widely regarded as one of the world’s best defenders. The 6’3” Inter star is also a reported target for several clubs—not least Barcelona.

However, despite the interest, the 27-year-old remains under contract in Italy until 2028 and his club is adamant on retaining his services beyond the next transfer window.

Inter sporting director Piero Ausilio recently said of Barça’s interest: “Bastoni is under contract with Inter, and there are no situations making us believe he will leave in the summer.”

It likely would take a gigantic offer from Madrid to make something happen.

Likelihood: 3/10

6. Cristian Romero

A World Cup winner, Cristian Romero’s stock has fallen since his Argentina heroics as Tottenham sink to unprecedented depths.

Spurs’ potential relegation from the Premier League would present an opportunity for Madrid to move for the 28-year-old, who is under contract in London until 2029. However, his performances during the club’s campaign from hell may well have put off Pérez and the Madrid decision makers.

A battle-ready, heart-on-his-sleeve kind of defender, Romero’s trademark passion has veered into recklessness and moments of madness—including two red cards—this season.

An achievable target sure, but perhaps not the reliable option Madrid seek in a time of crisis.


Likelihood: 4/10

5. Antonio Silva

The 22-year-old Portugal international has long been touted as one of Europe’s top emerging center backs and has won public praise from his Benfica manager José Mourinho—a man also tipped with a move to the Bernabéu.

If Mourinho were to make a return to Madrid, Antonio Silva might well be top of his transfer wish list.

Silva’s contract in Lisbon expires in 2027 and Benfica will be eager to cash in on their asset this summer while they still can. He has a €100 million ($117 million) release clause, but there’s no way anyone will need to pay close to that to get his signature under the circumstances.

Chelsea and Manchester United have also been linked.

Likelihood: 5/10

4. Nico Schlotterbeck

For a while, Madrid moving for Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck this summer seemed like a lock.

With a contract nearing its final year, the 26-year-old presented another juicy market opportunity for Pérez and Co. seeking to augment Madrid’s backline.

However, a new contract signed this spring, tying the Germany international to Dortmund until 2031, has poured cold water on the rumors.

That said, the fire of speculation is not fully out, with reports that Schlotterbeck’s new deal contains a special release clause applicable to Real Madrid—if they are prepared to pay for him.

Likelihood: 5.5/10

3. Micky van de Van

Unlike Romero, Micky Van de Ven’s reputation hasn’t take quite such a battering amid Spurs’ travails.

The 25-year-old remains one of Spurs’ most highly rated players and statistically the Premier League’s fastest ever.

His Gareth Bale-esque Champions League wonder goal against Copenhagen back in November drew admiring glances, while the Dutchman is beyond unlikely to stick around at Spurs if they are relegated to the Championship despite a contract that runs until 2029.

Likelihood: 6/10

2. Jon Martín

A Spain Under-21 star with buckets of potential, Jon Martín made his debut for Real Sociedad back in 2024 but has risen to prominence this season with his La Liga displays.

Excellent in the air and on the ground, it has been reported that Pérez in particular is a fan of the 20-year-old who has a €50 million ($58.5 million) release clause.

Barcelona, too, are said to be interested in Martín, which may only egg Pérez on.

The young star ranks in La Liga’s top 10 for interceptions and blocks by center backs in 2025–26.

Likelihood: 7/10

1. Jacobo Ramón

The easy option. Jacobo Ramón left Madrid for Como last summer for just €2.5 million ($2.9 million) and a buy-back option.

The 6'5” center back has been a revelation this season in Serie A for Cesc Fàbregas’s impressive team that also features Nico Paz.

While the specifics of Ramón’s deal are unclear, it would ultimately not be a heavy lift to bring him back to the Bernabéu this summer.

Whether he would be the only defensive addition is another matter.

Likelihood: 8/10

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Nine Defenders Real Madrid Could Sign This Summer—Ranked.

The Argentine, who spent six years at Spurs, made the switch from club management to the international stage in Sept. 2024 when he took over the Stars and Stripes. It has been anything but a straightforward journey for Pochettino in the United States, and there is plenty of speculation that his time at the helm of the USMNT will end once his contract expires after the 2026 World Cup.

Pochettino himself has fueled such rumors, openly flirting with a potential return to Europe as reports link him to Real Madrid and Tottenham—and he only stoked the flames on the Stick to Football podcast.

When asked if he wants to return to the Premier League, the 54-year-old said, “One day, yes because I really like England. I think my human profile and coach profile match very well with the Premier League and with the culture, the idea, the idiosyncrasy and the philosophy.”

Pochettino, who also previously managed Chelsea, did not delve further into what team he has in mind for such a return, but his vocal fondness for Spurs certainly left the door open for the manager to reclaim his place on the touchline at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium ... if they survive a tense relegation battle.

Pochettino Breaks Silence on Spurs’ Fall From Grace

One of the biggest stories in the Premier League this season has been Tottenham’s descent down the table. The club currently sits in 18th place with 34 points from 34 games this season.

Spurs’ managerial carousel went from Thomas Frank to Igor Tudor, to now Roberto De Zerbi as they try and climb to safety to avoid a shock relegation. They are two points behind 17th-place West Ham United, but still must face Aston Villa, Leeds United, Chelsea and Everton to close out the season.

“It is really sad,” Pochettino said about Tottenham’s current crisis. “I really love Tottenham; it’s one of the most important parts of my life as a coach and in my personal life too. I can talk from my experience in Tottenham and what I can tell you for me it’s one of the biggest clubs in the world.

“Tottenham is a massive club with a massive following.”

Yet they could get relegated to the second tier in England for the first time since 1977, an incredible fall from grace considering Spurs finished second in the 2016–17 season, made the Champions League final in 2019 and won the Europa League last season.

Is Pochettino the Answer to Tottenham’s Woes?

The first two of the aforementioned accomplishments for Spurs happened under Pochettino’s reign. The Argentine admitted the team “challenged” for silverware but ultimately “missed this last step.”

Of course there’s an idyllic reality in which Pochettino returns to north London and gets the club back on track, leading Tottenham back to the top four and forgetting about their disastrous 2025–26 campaign, much like Manchester United’s sudden resurgence under Michael Carrick, who has all but secured the Red Devils’ Champions League return next season.

Yet the last time Pochettino managed Spurs, he had the likes of Harry Kane and Son Heung-min to lead the team to new heights. Now, there is a stunning lack of true game-changers in north London, and the return of Pochettino will not immediately change that. After all, the biggest talents in Europe are certainly not keen on joining a team in such turmoil.

Without better recruitment, the team will likely continue to fall below their previous standards no matter who is on the touchline. Sure, Pochettino could perhaps speed up the process, but he is by no means a fix-all for a team largely full of unproven talents who cannot even win matches, let alone challenge for trophies.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Mauricio Pochettino Teases Potential Tottenham Hotspur Return—But There’s a Catch.

Jackson eventually signed with the Bundesliga champions last summer—after the deal initially collapsed—on loan with a conditional obligation to buy. In reality, the conditions for that obligation to be triggered were never going to be met.

Jackson needed to start 40 games across just the Bundesliga and Champions League, which would have prompted a €65 million (£56.3 million, $76.1 million) permanent transfer. Fighting for opportunities in a one-striker system with Harry Kane was always going to be difficult and, with only a handful of matches of the loan left, the Senegal international has made 13 relevant starts.

His goal record when contextualized by minutes on the pitch is not bad. In the Bundesliga, Jackson’s seven goals have come at an average of once every 121 minutes. In the Champions League, it is slightly more often, a goal every 101 minutes he is on the pitch.

That might be why Chelsea are sticking to a premium valuation. The Athletic reports that “up to £60 million” ($81.1 million) is what the Blues consider the 24-year-old to be worth in this market. It is a figure roughly comparable with how much Arsenal paid for Viktor Gyökeres last summer.

Chelsea fans might question why Jackson cannot remain at Stamford Bridge. An alarming on-field discipline record last season aside, he has scored 24 Premier League goals across two campaigns. If the hierarchy views him as a high-end transfer, the argument is why can’t they use him?

Whoever Chelsea appoint as new manager this summer might have an opinion. Other factors could also come into it, with Liam Delap already being linked with an exit after a single subpar season that creates a better opportunity for Jackson.

Ultimately, Chelsea need the sale to create turnover that can be reinvested. The club announced the biggest loss in Premier League history when 2024–25’s accounts were published recently. Chelsea were only profitable the year before through the sale of the women’s team to themselves, an accountancy loophole not recognized by UEFA and since also closed by the Premier League.

Although the club has competed in the Champions League this season, the likely absence of lucrative revenue from the competition in 2026–27 will only exacerbate financial issues. Chelsea also lack the matchday revenue of rival clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City, while the majority of matches in recent seasons have been played without a front-of-shirt sponsor.

Selling Jackson for a good price doesn’t solve that, but could be a necessary piece of the puzzle.

Potential Destinations for Nicolas Jackson

The bigger issue than naming a price is finding a club to sell to.

Jackson is not now and never has been prolific and his Bayern Munich loan is a good example of the backup status he would have at an elite team. If a player is being recruited to a support role, it instantly reduces what the buying club is willing to pay. Equally, the kind of teams where Jackson might be a regular starter doesn’t always tend to be where the big money is.

Even in the Premier League, £60 million ($81.1 million) would represent a new transfer record for most teams. At least Aston Villa might be in need of fresh offensive energy, and would have money to spend, if a bigger club skims attacking midfielder Morgan Rogers.

At Newcastle United, Nick Woltemade is being linked with a swift Bundesliga return that would create a need. Fellow striker Yoane Wissa has been one of the worst signings in Premier League history, while the Magpies could also bank transfer fees for Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon.

There is Tottenham Hotspur, who need to do something differently. But only if they stay up.

Looking to Europe, Napoli or Atlético Madrid might consider Jackson—the latter is losing Antoine Griezmann, while several elite clubs are closely tracking Julián Alvarez. There would also be a void at Galatasaray should Victor Osimhen be poached, which is a rumored possibility.

Chelsea’s best bet could be another loan—with a fee—but that doesn’t bring in the big money and only kicks this particular problem a little way down the road. That alternative route might at least bring AC Milan, Juventus or Marseille into the equation.

The easiest route to money for both Chelsea and Jackson is the Saudi Pro League, where Al Ittihad have yet to replace Karim Benzema following his sudden February exit.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as 10 Potential Destinations for Forgotten Chelsea Man Nicolas Jackson.

The serial Championship promotion winner once again failed to enjoy his experience of the Premier League. The Clarets made an encouraging start to life back in the top flight before enduring a swift decline. A solitary win since October has kept Burnley in the same position of 19th for 22 consecutive weeks.

Given Wolverhampton Wanderers’ relative uptick in form, there is the very real possibility that they end the season rock bottom.

Once relegation was mathematically confirmed with last week’s defeat to Manchester City, Burnley’s hierarchy entered into discussions with Parker regarding his future. As the club confirmed on Thursday, those talks ended with the former England international’s exit.

“The Club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Scott for his professionalism, dedication and contribution,” a statement read. “He leaves with the respect and gratitude of everyone connected with Burnley Football Club.”

Burnley also revealed that Mike Jackson would reprise his role as interim manager for the club’s final four league fixtures. Jackson took temporary charge at Turf Moor in April 2022 following Sean Dyche’s exit, overseeing an immediate run of 10 points from four games which earned him the Premier League manager of the month award.

Jackson would require an even more impressive sequence of results to establish himself as a candidate for the full-time position. It appears as though Steven Gerrard is leading that race.

Steven Gerrard Tipped for Managerial Return

Gerrard was thought to be “of interest” to Burnley’s owners before the decision to part ways with Parker was made. Now that his compatriot has been moved on, the Daily Mail claim that the retired England captain is the “favorite” for the vacant post.

It’s been 15 months since Gerrard’s last managerial position, an awkward stint in the Saudi Pro League with Al Ettifaq. The ex-Liverpool midfielder’s only previous experience of senior management in English soccer came during an 11-month stint at Aston Villa.

Gerrard steered the Midlands giant to a 14th-placed finish in the 2021–22 campaign before results tailed off dramatically during his second term. Villa relieved their iconic coach of his duties just eight games into the following season. Unai Emery took the helm and oversaw a remarkable ascent with a similar squad which is now a serial Champions League contender.

Burnley’s soon-to-be Championship rivals Bristol City have also been linked with an approach for Gerrard, who is thought to be keen on a return to management. After watching his former international colleague Frank Lampard thrive in England’s second tier with Coventry City, Gerrard could be in position to try and replicate that feat next season.

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Late Tuesday, the FIFA Council, convening in Vancouver this week for the 76th FIFA Congress, unanimously approved to consult the possibility that all senior club teams be “obliged to always have at least one homegrown player from the Under-20 or Under-21 category on the field of play.”

A proposal for the radical change—aimed at progressing the development of young players—will be submitted to the FIFA Council sometime within the next year, with the exact definition of “homegrown” still yet to be determined.

This rule could drastically affect club teams all over the globe, influencing not only how and when managers substitute players, but also the activity of transfer windows and how rosters are built in the first place. The change would ultimately deter clubs from buying and importing so much veteran star talent, encouraging them to put more emphasis and resources into developing their own youth.

It would specifically rattle the Premier League, in which several clubs have not had a homegrown youngster start a match all season.

Premier League’s Current Pool of Young Talent

At present, England’s top flight requires that each club’s 25-player squad has “no more than 17” who are not homegrown, meaning eight spots are for locally-trained talent.

However, there is no specifying how often those players should be actually on the pitch. A similar rule exists for the UEFA Champions League, and both define a homegrown player as one that has played at least three full seasons between the ages of 15 and 21 within the club’s youth system or at another club’s youth system in the same country.

There are four Premier League teams that have not included a homegrown player under 21-years-old in their starting lineup at all this season: Brentford, Leeds United, Aston Villa and recently-relegated Burnley. These four would be the most affected by the rule change, leaving them with the arduous task of swiftly developing youngsters or scrambling to find new diamonds in the rough.

Conversely, Manchester City would be in the best position of any Premier League club, having had 30 of their 33 league matches so far include an U21 homegrown player in the starting XI, per The Times. Nico O’Reilly, 21, worked his way up City’s youth ranks since the age of eight and is largely responsible for that feat, having started 26 league matches so far this season.

Manchester United would also be in a good position, with 20 league games out of their 34 including an U21 homegrown starter, with a lot down to Kobbie Mainoo. The 21-year-old graduate has made 12 starts in the last 13 league matches, shining under interim manager Michael Carrick’s tutelage.

United also hold an impressive 89-year-old record of naming at least one homegrown player in every single matchday squad, dating back to Oct. 30, 1937. Nevertheless, even this record does not account for or promise playing time, with youngsters not always making it to the pitch.

While the Premier League clubs eagerly await FIFA’s decision, they would all be smart to begin exploring better avenues to get their youth pathways up to speed.

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Premier League

Manchester United have made informal inquires about AC Milan winger Rafael Leão, whose price tag is €50 million (£43.3 million, $58.4 million). The Rossoneri would be willing to part with the Portugal international should the right offer come along. (Source: Calciomercato)

Liverpool have circled Athletic Club forward Nico Williams as their top target this summer. A deal in the range of €80 million (£69.3 million, $93.4 million) is being discussed to bring the Spaniard to Anfield. (Source: Fichajes)

Arsenal intend to have an active summer transfer window, with Atlético Madrid forward Julián Alvarez atop their shortlist of attacking reinforcements. The Gunners would have to shell out a record £130 million ($182 million) to prize him away from Spain. (Source: Sky Sports)

Everton do not plan on triggering the £50 million ($67.4 million) option to buy Manchester City loanee Jack Grealish, but they remain hopeful of retaining the forward next season, either on loan again or for a lower price. (Source: TEAMtalk)

The Toffees are also interested in Man City defender John Stones, but they have competition from fellow Premier League clubs, as well as Monaco, Marseille and Inter Milan. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Ajax winger Mika Godts is firmly on Man Utd’s radar and the club is making a serious push for his signature once the transfer window opens, which would be a blow to his other suitors, Newcastle United. (Source: Football Insider)

Aston Villa have entered the race to sign Monaco midfielder Maghnes Akliouche and will step up their interest if they qualify for the Champions League. Chelsea, Liverpool, Man Utd, Newcastle and Tottenham Hotspur are all keeping an eye on the 24-year-old as well. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Tottenham are in negotiations to permanently sign Bayern Munich loanee João Palhinha despite his underwhelming performances this season. A final decision will not be made, though, until after the campaign ends. (Source: Football Insider)

If Ipswich Town get promoted to the Premier League, Chelsea striker Liam Delap will leave Stamford Bridge this summer and return to his former club. (Source: SportsBoom)

Man Utd are not interested in hearing any offers for center back Lisandro Martínez. The club intends to trigger the option to extend the Argentine’s stay at Old Trafford beyond June 2027, when his contract is due to expire. (Source: Football Insider)

La Liga

Should José Mourinho return the Bernabéu, the manager has identified Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha as his top target. (Source: Fichajes)

Chelsea fullback Marc Cucurella is open to joining Barcelona to escape the crisis at Stamford Bridge, though the Catalans have decided against pursing the Spaniard, who would undoubtedly fetch a hefty fee compared to signing João Cancelo permanently. (Source: Mundo Deportivo)

Real Madrid left back Álvaro Carreras has caught the eye of Arsenal, who are making reinforcing the fullback positions a top priority this summer. The Spaniard’s position at the Bernabéu remains vulnerable after Ferland Mendy’s return to form. (Source: CaughtOffside)

Despite interest from Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, Atlético Madrid forward Julián Alvarez’s preference remains Barcelona. For now, though, the Argentine is focused on finishing out the season strong and then going to the 2026 World Cup. (Source: Sky Sports)

Atlético Madrid are preparing a €60 million (£52 million, $58.4 million) offer for Marseille forward Mason Greenwood, who wants to join a team where he can play Champions League soccer next season. (Source: Fichajes)

Juventus are interested in Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski, but they first want to prioritize Dušan Vlahović’s contract renewal. (Source: Gazzetta dello Sport)

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Beyond bad bounces of the ball, terribly timed injuries have dogged the Italian’s brief tenure. Xavi Simons notably added his name to the long list of casualties and has also been joined by first-choice striker Dominic Solanke. The Daily Mail claim that the hamstring injury the center forward sustained in a rare win over Wolverhampton Wanderers could keep him sidelined for as many as eight weeks.

There is the slim possibility of a swift recovery of three weeks—which would open up the chance of some involvement on the final day—although the report confidently describes Solanke’s season as “over.” Thanks to De Zerbi’s rotten luck, he is hardly Tottenham’s only long-term absentee.

Every Tottenham Player Ruled Out for Rest of Season

Dominic Solanke

• Injury: Thigh
• Last Appearance: April 25 (vs. Wolves)

Solanke’s hamstring injury will also likely scupper his chances of sneaking onto the England roster for this summer’s World Cup. A selfless forward adept at holding the ball up, the Spurs man arguably serves as the closest stylistic replacement to Harry Kane at Thomas Tuchel’s disposal.

The 28-year-old appeared in both of England’s March friendlies but may have seen his international aspirations wiped out by overstretching at Molineux.

Xavi Simons

• Injury: Knee
• Last Appearance: April 25 (vs. Wolves)

No sooner had De Zerbi started forming a “special connection” with Xavi Simons than Tottenham’s potential savior ruptured his ACL. The Dutch playmaker was left “heartbroken” by the diagnosis

“All I’ve wanted to do is fight for my team,” he lamented, “and now the ability to do that has been snatched away from me, along with the World Cup.”

Cristian Romero

• Injury: Knee
• Last Appearance: April 12 (vs. Sunderland)

Cristian Romero may boast one of the worst individual and collective debut seasons as a Tottenham Hotspur captain across the club’s 144-year existence.

The combustible Argentine has lived up to all his worst character traits, collecting 11 yellow cards and two reds while patrolling a backline which has conceded the fourth-most goals in the Premier League. To top it off, Romero got shoved into his own goalkeeper to sustain a knee injury which has forced him to watch the final six weeks of the season from the sidelines.

Wilson Odobert

• Injury: Knee
• Last Appearance: Feb. 10 (vs. Newcastle)

No Tottenham player has taken more shots this season without scoring a single Premier League goal than Wilson Odobert (21). The erratic winger won’t have the chance to break his duck after getting struck down with the ACL curse coursing through Spurs.

Ben Davies

• Injury: Knee
• Last Appearance: Jan. 17 (vs. West Ham)

Any warm body would be of use to Tottenham at this point but Ben Davies’s chances of featuring again this season appear to be slim. The experienced defender has been sidelined since undergoing ankle surgery in January.

If Davies’s season is over, so too could be his Spurs playing career. The 33-year-old is set to be out of contract in June, bringing an end to his 12-year stay in north London.

Mohammed Kudus

• Injury: Thigh
• Last Appearance: Jan. 4 (vs. Sunderland)

Mohammed Kudus had been upheld as Tottenham’s saving grace upon his return to training earlier this month only to suffer a dramatic relapse which will likely keep him out of action until the World Cup.

De Zerbi took partial blame for Kudus’s absence. “I don’t want to push too much as we lost Kudus in this way,” the Italian coach admitted. “I will use the players when they are totally available to play and start training; it’s better to lose one more game than get another injury.”

Dejan Kulusevski

• Injury: Knee
• Last Appearance: May 11 (vs. Crystal Palace)

Dejan Kulusevski must have to be considered a hypothetical Tottenham player at this point. Last season’s leading assist provider has been sidelined with a unique knee injury since May, clouding his return in mystery by refusing to make any public statements—until March.

When Kulusevski was drawn upon his potential return date, he failed to mention Spurs at all, focusing instead on getting back to feature for Sweden at this summer’s World Cup.

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Premier League

Paris Saint-Germain winger Ibrahim Mbaye wants to leave the French side and has plenty of options in England. Liverpool have joined Aston Villa and Newcastle United in pursuit of the 18-year-old. (Source: CaughtOffside)

However, it is another PSG winger, France international Bradley Barcola, who sits atop Liverpool’s attacking wish list. A bid of $117 million (€100 million, £87 million) is being prepared. (Source: Fichajes)

Manchester United are battling Juventus for Stuttgart midfielder Angelo Stiller, boosted by Real Madrid’s decision to withdraw from the race for his signature. (Source: Tuttosport)

Potentially leaving Man Utd could be talisman Bruno Fernandes, who is set to receive an offer from an ambitious Galatasaray side also preparing to try and sign Bernardo Silva from Manchester City. (Source: Fanatik)

Man Utd are also ready to offload Manuel Ugarte for around $54 million (£40 million) amid interest from Aston Villa, Newcastle and Juventus. (Source: SportsBoom)

Chelsea and Man City have both stepped up their interest in Anderlecht midfielder Nathan De Cat but are behind Bayern Munich in the battle to sign the 17-year-old. (Source: TEAMtalk)

Arsenal are the latest side to express an interest in Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi, who is also on the radars of Man City and Man Utd. (Source: talkSPORT)

Linked with an exit from Arsenal is Kai Havertz, with Bayern Munich interested in the German as a replacement for the departing Nicolas Jackson. (Source: James Benge)

West Ham United’s desperation to sell striker Niclas Füllkrug this summer has sparked interest from Bundesliga outfit Wolfsburg. (Source: Sky Germany)

Newcastle could make an offer big enough to convince Inter to sell midfielder Aleksandar Stanković as early as this summer, when the Nerazzurri are planning to trigger their buy-back clause for the 20-year-old. (Source: Gazzetta dello Sport)

Scouts from Tottenham Hotspur have been in the stands to watch 19-year-old Athletico Paranaense center back Arthur Dias’s last two games. (Source: Monique Vilela)

Even though they are closing in on a new contract for Ibrahima Konaté, Liverpool are still considering a move for Napoli center back Sam Beukema. (Source: TEAMtalk)

La Liga

Barcelona officials have spent the past few days discussing a summer move for Chelsea left back Marc Cucurella, whose prior knowledge of the club is seen as desirable. (Source: El Chiringuito)

Real Madrid have ruled out signing a new striker this summer and are ready to move forward with Kylian Mbappé and the returning Endrick as their two options. Gonzalo García will be made available for transfer but any deal will have to include a buy-back clause. (Source: OKdiario)

Julián Alvarez has informed Atlético Madrid of his desire to leave the club this summer, with a move to Barcelona his top priority. (Source: Fichajes)

Gonçalo Ramos of PSG is an alternative target for Barcelona. Any deal would cost around $35 million (€30 million) but PSG have also suggested a swap deal involving Gavi—a proposal that was quickly laughed off. (Source: El Nacional)

Both Real Madrid and Man City have been knocked back by Bayern Munich midfielder Aleksandar Pavlović, who has no interest in leaving the Bundesliga champions. (Source: Christian Falk)

Hansi Flick wants Barcelona to keep hold of Man Utd loanee Marcus Rashford but the club are not prepared to trigger their option to make the deal permanent. Instead, a second loan deal has been proposed by Barça. (Source: Florian Plettenberg)

Real Madrid have struck a deal to sign Atlético Madrid Under-12 star Viti in the latest example of the breakdown of the unwritten agreement between the two clubs not to sign players from the other. (Source: AS)

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The club’s transfer priorities are clear, and there may be scope for Barça, despite their well-documented financial woes, could have the license to go big at a couple of distinct positions of need.

However, Barça aren’t in a position to ignore potential bargains, and Tottenham’s likely clearout in the event of a stunning relegation could be pounced upon by the Catalan giants.

Spurs, last season’s Europa League winners, currently sit in the Premier League relegation zone with only four games remaining. Despite claiming a first win in the league this calendar year, they’re still two points adrift of safety and in a dire position.

Barcelona Potentially Set for North London Bargain Hunt

Tottenham may find themselves somewhere absolutely nobody predicted in preseason, with a first relegation in almost 50 years staring them in the face. Injuries and incompetence from those running the show have played significant parts in their demise, as this playing squad undeniably boasts talent.

And Spanish media outlet SPORT, running with Barcelona sporting director Deco’s reported trip to London last month, have speculated that the Blaugrana could be in the market for several of Spurs’ wantaway stars in the event of relegation.

Center backs Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven are almost certain to leave, no matter how the final month of the season plays out, and both have previously been linked with a move to Catalonia. Barça were also in the market for young midfielder Lucas Bergvall, who instead joined the Lilywhites in 2024, while Xavi Simons became a viral sensation during a childhood spent at La Masia.

The La Liga champions supposedly held meetings with Xavi’s representatives last summer, but were unable to striike a deal. Any interested clubs are now likely to be deterred after the Dutch playmaker tore his ACL that will keep him off the pitch until 2027.

SPORT speculated that right back Pedro Porro could also be a summer option, and suggested that both Romero and Van de Ven are on Barcelona’s radar. They’ve reportedly held talks with Tottenham defender Luka Vušković, too.

The Positions Barcelona Must Target This Summer

Links with Tottenham’s two starting center backs make sense, given that Barça are crying out for a left-sided defender after letting Iñigo Martínez walk without signing a replacement last summer.

Van de Ven’s stock has dwindled in 2026, but Romero is also comfortable playing as a left center back, doing so on plenty of occasions for the national team. The Argentine has previously spoken about his desire to one day play in La Liga, and his father recently revealed that a release clause in the contract he signed last summer exists.

Barcelona are well-stocked in midfield, but are set to aggressively target a new striker. They won’t be going after Dominic Solanke, Richarlison or Randal Kolo Muani, with Atlético Madrid’s Julián Alvarez the dream.

The club is also yet to make a decision on Marcus Rashford, who has only impressed in spurts on loan from Manchester United and can be signed permanently for around $35 million (€30 million).

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Barcelona Eyeing Tottenham ’Gems’ Amid Relegation Fears—Report.

Premier League

Manchester United have “already made their move” for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, keen to beat Juventus to the signature of a player seen as the perfect replacement for Casemiro. (Source: TuttoJuve)

Galatasaray’s recent meeting with rivals Fenerbahçe was attended by Arsenal director Andrea Berta, who went to watch Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen in action ahead of a possible summer bid. (Source: AS)

Arsenal are also chasing a deal for Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Díaz, who could be allowed to leave the Bernabéu for the right price. (Source: Fichajes)

Chelsea striker Liam Delap is not looking to leave the club this summer despite struggling during his debut season at Stamford Bridge. (Source: The Telegraph)

Meanwhile, Enzo Fernández has made it clear he would be prepared to sign a new contract at Chelsea, if the Blues offer him a higher salary and promise to try and match his ambition through the signing of more experienced players. (Source: Si Phillips)

Liverpool want around $17.5 million (€15 million, £13 million) to sell goalkeeper Alisson, but Juventus have frustrated the Reds with their determination to sign the Brazil international on a free transfer. (Source: Calciomercato)

Aston Villa and Newcastle have both joined Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur in pursuit of Sporting CP left back Maxi Araújo. (Source: Sport Witness)

Striker Nick Woltemade is no longer wanted at Newcastle. Aston Villa are interested in signing the Germany international. (Source: Fichajes)

Potentially replacing Woltemade at Newcastle could be Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson, who has emerged as a target for the Magpies after Bayern Munich confirmed they will not trigger their permanent transfer clause. (Source: talkSPORT)

Man Utd are planning to try and capitalize on Leicester City’s relegation to League One with a move for highly rated winger Jeremy Monga. The 16-year-old features on a shortlist which also includes Foxes midfielder Louis Page, 17, and right back Olabade Aluko, 19. (Source: Paddy Keogh)

Similarly, Man Utd are watching Tottenham center back Micky van de Ven, whose price tag could drop if Spurs are relegated from the Premier League, alongside Nottingham Forest’s Murillo. (Source: The Telegraph)

Wolverhampton Wanderers have already been relegated from the Premier League and Brentford, Crystal Palace, Leeds United and West Ham United are all trying to take advantage with moves for center back Santiago Bueno. (Source: Sport Witness)

Manchester City director Hugo Viana has held talks with the agent of Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi. (Source: Sacha Tavolieri)

Al Nassr manager Jorge Jesus has requested the signing of Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah, who will be given the chance to link up with Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia if the club can first agree a new contract with Jesus himself. (Source: Okaz)

La Liga

Real Madrid have turned down an offer of $94 million (€80 million) for midfielder Federico Valverde from Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli. (Source: Fichajes)

Hansi Flick wants Barcelona to sign a more attacking right back to better compliment Lamine Yamal. Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Ryerson and Rayo Vallecano’s Andrei Rațiu have both been suggested. (Source: El Nacional)

Atlético Madrid have reignited their pursuit of Liverpool left back Andy Robertson. The Scotland international has been in talks with Tottenham, but a deal hinges on their Premier League survival. (Source: Daily Record)

Franco Mastantuono wants to stay at Real Madrid but is reluctantly considering a return to River Plate, well aware that he cannot continue to struggle as much as he has during his debut season in Spain. (Source: Defensa Central)

Marcus Rashford is solely focused on continuing his career with Barcelona beyond this season, even though the Catalan giants are not expected to trigger their option to sign the Man Utd loanee permanently. (Source: Mundo Deportivo)

Barcelona sporting director Deco has met with the agent of Osasuna winger Víctor Muñoz. The Blaugrana have doubts about the 22-year-old and are also wary of doing business over a player whose sale would trigger a significant sell-on clause for Real Madrid. (Source: SPORT)

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Injuries are threatening to rob the tournament of some elite talent representing the leading nations, an array of high-profile names facing a race against time to feature at soccer’s most prestigious event.

Pretty much all of the favorites for the crown are sweating on the fitness of key performers ahead of the opening fixture on June 11, many of whom have already been ruled out for the remainder of the club campaign.

With that in mind, here are the stars at risk of missing the World Cup through injury.

Lamine Yamal

Lamine Yamal will be among the leading contenders for the Player of the Tournament as he seeks to propel Spain to its second world title. Having already dazzled en route to glory at Euro 2024, expectations are through the roof for the fleet-footed winger.

However, a hamstring injury will impact his preparations for the tournament, Yamal already ruled out by Barcelona for the rest of the season. While the club have insisted he should feature at the World Cup, any setbacks would prove fatal to his chances of representing La Roja.

Estêvão

Estêvão is another precocious winger with an uphill battle on his hands. Also succumbing to a hamstring injury, the Brazil international will sit out the rest of Chelsea’s campaign, and his ability to feature in the tournament is in doubt.

“He was crying at half time. I’m really devastated for him,” former Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior said immediately after Estêvão’s injury in a defeat to Manchester United, the teenager left fearing the worst ahead of a debut World Cup.

Arda Güler

Arda Güler has enjoyed a fine season under difficult circumstances at Real Madrid, but a hamstring injury has cut his campaign short. Los Blancos have little to play for during the rest of the season, but they must limp on without the Türkiye international.

Despite being ruled out for the remainder of the term, Güler is reportedly still set to feature at a first ever World Cup, the diminutive playmaker the brightest star in an up-and-coming Türkiye team.

Luka Modric

The player once compared to a little boy dressed up as a witch has sprinkled his sorcery over four different World Cups. Despite turning 40 back in September, Luka Modrić threatened to dominate another global tournament after winding back the clock during a stellar debut season for AC Milan.

However, 80 minutes into Milan’s clash with Juventus at the end of April, Modrić’s 36th appearance of the season for the Rossoneri, he came out second best in an aerial duel with Manuel Locatelli. The wily veteran was subsequently diagnosed with a fractured cheekbone which will keep him out of the remainder of the Serie A season and leaves his World Cup involvement in the balance.

Cristian Romero

Cristian Romero’s opportunity to help Argentina defend its world title is under threat. The Tottenham Hotspur center back was in tears as he suffered a season-ending knee injury in Roberto De Zerbi’s first game in charge of the club, leaving him in limbo ahead of this summer’s tournament.

There is no definitive return date for Romero at present, casting doubt over his World Cup involvement, but the defender will be hopeful of at least making Lionel Scaloni’s squad—even if his fitness limits his game time.

Mohamed Salah

Mohamed Salah’s last professional swipe at a ball in a Liverpool shirt may very well prove to be a failed backheel in a nondescript Premier League victory over Crystal Palace. It wasn’t the regal sendoff befitting the Egyptian king after almost a decade of record-shattering service on Merseyside, but soccer can be a cruel beast.

Salah’s only previous appearance at a World Cup for Egypt was also dominated by fitness concerns. The nation’s president offered updates on forward’s dislocated shoulder during the summer of 2018 after a nasty clash with Sergio Ramos in that year’s Champions League final. Despite never looking fully fit, Salah still managed to score in both of his appearances at Russia, even if it wasn’t enough to escape the group stage.

Éder Militão

Éder Militão is one the game’s unluckiest stars when it comes to injuries, the center back regularly residing in the treatment room with various short and long-term ailments. The Brazilian is back on the sidelines after a recent hamstring injury.

Militão joins teammate Güler in being ruled out for the rest of the club season. Reports suggested he, too, was likely to recover in time for the World Cup, but recent claims suggest his injury is worse than first feared and his involvement this summer is in real jeopardy.

Mikel Merino

Mikel Merino has been absent for some time. The Arsenal midfielder underwent surgery on a fractured foot back in January and has been out of action ever since, his versatility and quality missed by the Gunners.

Spain are unlikely to miss Merino for the World Cup, however, the 29-year-old expected to be included in Luis de la Fuente’s squad, even if he misses the rest of Arsenal’s campaign.

Dejan Kulusevski

It’s been almost a year since Dejan Kulusevski last featured for Tottenham and his return isn’t imminent. It’s likely that Spurs’ relegation fight won’t involve the Swede, who still has ambitions of featuring at the World Cup.

“I haven’t played in a year. I know what the chances are,” Kulusevski admitted after Sweden qualified via the playoffs. “But if there is one person on the planet who can do this, I would bet on myself. And we are not just going there to participate. Sweden will aim to be one of the best.”

Matthijs de Ligt

Matthijs de Ligt has been sidelined since November with a nagging back injury, yet to make his return for the resurgent Manchester United. That naturally leaves his position in the Netherlands squad in doubt, although a recent return to the grass at Carrington has boosted hopes of making the World Cup.

De Ligt is currently going through an individual training program as he’s eased back into action, but no light has been shed on when exactly the towering Dutchman will make his much-anticipated comeback.

Reece James

Fitness issues have plagued Reece James’s career and despite a better season fitness-wise, the right back is back on the treatment table. Another hamstring injury means he could miss out on a third straight major tournament with England.

The Chelsea skipper will hope to return in the near future and is yet to be ruled out for the rest of the club season. Given Thomas Tuchel’s appreciation of the defender, James should make the plane if remotely fit.

Mohammed Kudus

Mohammed Kudus was ever so close to making his injury return around the March international break, having been sidelined since the beginning of January. However, a fresh setback has ended his season.

Kudus’s involvement for Ghana at this summer’s tournament is under threat as a result, the forward potentially needing surgery to remedy his quad injury.

Josko Gvardiol

Joško Gvardiol is another long-term absentee. Suffering a broken leg four days into the new year, it remains to be seen whether the Manchester City defender features down the stretch, with reports suggesting a possible return to training in May.

Gvardiol is expected to make Croatia’s World Cup squad despite his lack of fitness and momentum, the versatile center back crucial for the 2018 finalists.

Marc-André ter Stegen

With Manuel Neuer having retired from international duty, Marc-André ter Stegen was finally marked as his successor for Germany. However, he could miss the chance to fill his compatriot’s gloves at the World Cup following a nasty hamstring injury suffered on debut at loan side Girona.

The Barcelona goalkeeper faces a battle to make the cut, with 35-year-old Oliver Baumann preparing to step in for Ter Stegen should he miss out. Injuries have not been kind to the 33-year-old in recent years.

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Premier League

AC Milan would accept an offer potentially as low as $58.6 million (£43.4 million, €50 million) for star forward Rafael Leão, who has emerged as a top target for Manchester United. (Source: Calciomercato)

In an effort to help fund Leão’s arrival, Man Utd are keen to offload Marcus Rashford as quickly as possibly before the Barcelona loanee’s already high wages skyrocket in the event of Champions League qualification. (Source: Football Insider)

Manchester City are prepared to splash as much as $117.1 million (£86.7 million, €100 million) on Paris Saint-Germain’s star forward Bradley Barcola. The reigning European champions have not ruled out a potential deal if the price is right. (Source: Fichajes)

Manchester United and Newcastle United are both vying for the signature of Borussia Dortmund fullback Julian Ryerson. The set-piece specialist is valued at somewhere between $41–46.8 million (£30.4–34.7 million, €35–40 million). (Source: Ekrem Konur)

Liverpool’s pursuit of a Mohamed Salah replacement has led them to the surprising destination of Real Betis’ Ez Abde. The former Barcelona winger is worth a modest $70.3 million (£52 million, €60 million). (Source: Fichajes)

RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande is another target for Liverpool, who have already had meetings with the prodigious forward’s agents. PSG are also interested but Leipzig are standing firm on an eye-watering $117.1 million valuation. (Source: BILD)

Manchester United will not have a straight run-up at Atalanta star Éderson. The talented defensive midfielder is also on Arsenal’s radar. (Source: Ben Jacobs)

Nicolas Jackson did not amass the necessary number of appearances to automatically trigger his permanent stay at Bayern Munich and the Bundesliga champions have no intention of paying Chelsea the $76.1 million (£56.4 million, €65 million) clause. (Source: ZDF)

Liverpool’s interest in Tottenham Hotspur loanee Randal Kolo Muani is expected to be unsuccessful. The French forward is instead expected to return to his parent club PSG before joining another European team. (Source: Football Insider)

In the event that Spurs avoid relegation, they are planning to replace Kolo Muani with Manchester City forward Savinho. A bid in the region of $29.3 million (£21.7 million, €25 million) is being lined up. (Source: Fichajes)

Aston Villa are prepared to accept a $27 million (£20 million) exit for leading midfielder John McGinn in the hope of providing the financial stability the club would need to fend off nine-digit offers for the widely sought-after Morgan Rogers. (Source: Football Insider)

Barcelona are mulling over an approach for outgoing Manchester City defender John Stones. (Source: Fichajes)

La Liga

Real Madrid are prepared to make Enzo Fernández the most expensive (before add-ons) player in club history, with a bid worth $140.5 million (£104.1 million, €120 million) in the works for Chelsea’s mercurial midfielder. (Source: Fichajes)

Amid mounting interest from Barcelona, Real Madrid have been offered the chance to sign Bernardo Silva on a free transfer from Man City. (Source: AS)

Bayern Munich are prepared to join Barcelona in the race to sign Juventus’ outgoing striker Dušan Vlahović this summer. (Source: Nicolò Schira)

As Rashford heads for the Camp Nou exit, Barcelona have reignited their interest in Chelsea forward Estêvão. (Source: Fichajes)

A $23.4 million (€20 million) offer for Andriy Lunin from Serie A outfit Inter has prompted cause for consideration at Real Madrid. (Source: Fichajes)

Real Madrid have until May 30 to trigger Nico Paz’s cut-price buyback clause of $10.5 million (€9 million), which the Como star is fully expecting to happen—much to the frustration of the long list of suitors who would be willing to pay far more for the talented playmaker. (Source: AS)

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Liverpool Eye Shock Salah Replacement; Real Madrid’s Record Fernandez Bid.

The seemingly doomed Spurs were veering towards a potentially fatal point at the already-relegated Wolverhampton Wanderers, officially relegated to the Championship on Monday night after losing heavily to West Ham United and Leeds United in back-to-back games.

The visitors were able to keep their condemned hosts at bay, but a lack of sparkle in the final third, especially after Xavi was withdrawn just after the hour mark, meant returning Wolves goalkeeper José Sa was seldom tested.

However, Spurs, courtesy of a set-piece and a poacher’s effort from João Palhinha at the back post, were able to find a way. The slender triumph was their first in the league since Dec. 28, but victories for both Nottingham Forest and West Ham mean they failed to make any ground on relegation rivals.

Xavi Hits Back At Wolves Supporters Hurling Abuse

Merely claiming a Premier League win could serve as a major boost for Roberto De Zerbi’s side during the final month of the season. They came so close against Brighton & Hove Albion last weekend, but a 95th-minute Georginio Rutter equalizer cruelly canceled out Xavi’s stunning effort with 15 minutes to play.

As a result, much of the postmatch discourse focused on Xavi’s excessive celebration, rather than the quality of his finish.

The Dutchman has had a difficult first year in north London, but it hasn’t been without promise. The knee injury he suffered on Saturday could be a season-ender, which would be a huge blow to Spurs’ survival hopes. Moreover, Xavi didn’t take too kindly to the Wolves supporters hurling abuse at him, as he was stretchered around the pitch at Molineux.

In clips that surfaced on social media, Xavi bites back at one supporter who shouts from the stands: "F------ w-----, you’re a f------ w-----!"

The Dutchman pivoted his head towards the chief offender and more subtly repeats: "F--- you!"

What Xavi’s Knee Injury Could Mean for Spurs’ Survival Hopes?

“Xavi felt pain, but now I spoke with him two minutes ago, he feels better than at the beginning of the injury,” De Zerbi told reporters postmatch.

Xavi awkwardly collapsed to the ground after battling Hugo Bueno down Wolves’ left flank. He writhed around in serious discomfort just off the pitch, and a stretcher was called.

De Zerbi has said we won’t know the severity of the issue until Monday or Tuesday, but Xavi’s season is most likely over if he’s suffered significant ligament damage. Spurs supporters will be pleading for a kind diagnosis.

His strike against Brighton was a moment of attacking inspiration that Spurs have struggled to produce this season, with much of Xavi’s success arriving in Europe. It’s been much tougher sledding domestically, scoring just twice in the Premier League.

However, his commitment to the cause and the talent he undeniably possesses means his absence for the remaining month of the season would be hugely damaging. Tottenham have functioned without James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski for the entirety of 2025–26 so far, and the team will be bereft of any creative spark if Xavi’s sidelined, too.

The available midfield alternatives, like Lucas Bergvall and Conor Gallagher, are runners and carriers who lack the ability to unlock opposing defenses.

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“I don’t expect after 22 years of not winning [the title] that it’s going to be a path of roses and beautiful music around it,” he scoffed after a scratchy 1–0 win over Newcastle United. “It’s going to be like this and we are ready for it.”

Nobody said it would be easy, but it didn’t have to be this hard. Arsenal had ample opportunity to establish a chasm between themselves and Manchester City, only to fritter away points in the spring. Pep Guardiola’s side have enjoyed a familiar return to form over the recent sunny weeks and even returned to first place on Wednesday night.

The Gunners reclaimed that lofty position at the same time City booked a spot in the FA Cup final on Saturday. In a question between points on the board and games in hand, Opta’s supercomputer clearly favors the former in a prediction for how the title race will unfold.

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Premier League Title

The supercomputer’s faith in Arsenal is unwavering. Even after City clambered above the north London outfit in midweek, Opta still gave the Gunners a considerable edge. That confidence has only been bolstered by Saturday’s three points against Newcastle.

Rather than the quality (or lack thereof) in Arsenal’s recent performances, this stance appears to come from the caliber of opponents both sides have yet to play. The Gunners are set to face two of the current bottom four, 13th-placed Crystal Palace and a Fulham side sitting 10th with a negative goal difference.

City are also scheduled to face Palace but have to travel to Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium before taking on Brentford (ninth), Bournemouth (seventh) and ending the campaign against fifth-placed Aston Villa.

As Arteta repeated ad nauseam over the week, Arsenal’s clash with Newcastle was “Game One” of a five-match shootout. While the percentage chance of title success is surprisingly wide, Opta predict City and the Gunners to be separated by just two points come the end of the campaign.

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Champions League Race

In the eyes of the most widely revered data provider across soccer, the top-five race is done. Manchester United, Liverpool and Aston Villa are all given at least a 96% chance of finishing immediately behind Arsenal and Manchester City.

However, the Champions League qualification race is not quite wrapped up just yet.

Villa’s slide into fifth place following Saturday’s 1–0 defeat to Fulham has opened up a devilish prospect. Should Unai Emery’s side finish the campaign in that exact position—they are given a 34.5% chance of doing so—and win the Europa League which comes with Champions League qualification, then the team which sneaks into sixth place also gains entry to Europe’s premier club competition.

If the top five is secure, the race for sixth is anything but.

The Race for Sixth Place

This should have been Chelsea’s spot for the taking. In fact, guaranteed Champions League qualification seemed within their grasp as recently as last month when the Blues thrashed Villa 4–1 in Birmingham. Chelsea have lost every league game since and sacked Liam Rosenior.

Brighton & Hove Albion condemned their former defender to his premature fate with a 3–0 thumping in midweek which saw the Seagulls soar all the way up to sixth. Fabian Hürzeler’s side are favorites to finish the campaign in that spot—which will guarantee at least Europa League qualification for only the second time in the club’s history—but they are only one win away from Everton in the bottom half of the table.

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Relegation Battle

With Burnley and Wolves already condemned to the Championship while Nottingham Forest and Leeds United have almost certainly pulled clear of the division’s plughole, it is now a straight shootout between Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United.

For four entire minutes on Saturday, April 26, Spurs were out of the relegation zone. João Palhinha’s winning goal against already-relegated Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux was compounded by an 88th-minute equalizer for Everton in their clash with West Ham 130 miles south at the London Stadium.

Callum Wilson had other ideas. The Hammers forward snatched victory for the capital club against Everton to ensure that his side remained two points clear of Spurs.

Not that Roberto De Zerbi was disheartened. “I believe,” he declared after earning Tottenham’s first league win of 2026. Injuries to both Dominic Solanke and a particularly serious-looking problem for Xavi Simons have some fans thinking otherwise, but the Italian remained defiant.

“When I knew better my players, I understood that we have the possibility, the chance to stay up,” he warned. “We have two points [the gap to West Ham], not 10 points.”

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Premier League

Manchester United have made the first move in pursuit of Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon, challenging Bayern Munich to raise their informal offer for the Englishman. (Source: Fichajes)

Another Man Utd target, Borussia Dortmund winger Karim Adeyemi, is expected to be available for $70 million (€60 million, £44 million) this summer. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is also pushing to get a deal done. (Source: SportsBoom)

Arsenal and Man Utd could also butt heads over the signing of Real Madrid striker Endrick. There is a “growing sense” the young Brazilian could be available this summer. (Source: Mark Brus)

Liverpool failed with a bid to sign Inter right back Denzel Dumfries in the winter. Manager Arne Slot remains a huge fan of the Dutchman and could reignite that pursuit at the end of the season. (Source: Fabrizio Romano)

Meanwhile, Liverpool remain in the race to sign Bournemouth center back Marcos Senesi. Tottenham Hotspur are in advanced negotiations but will only get a deal over the line if they remain in the Premier League. (Source: CaughtOffside)

Atalanta will not trigger their option to sign midfielder Yunus Musah from AC Milan this summer. The USMNT midfielder’s agent hopes to strike a deal with West Ham United instead. (Source: Calciomercato)

Paris Saint-Germain are prepared to bid close to $117 million (€100 million, £87 million) to sign Arsenal center back William Saliba. (Source: Fichajes)

Arsenal have made contact with the representatives of Sporting CP left back Maxi Araújo, having been impressed by him during the Champions League quarterfinals. (Source: Record)

Lucas Bergvall has no interest in leaving Tottenham this summer if the club avoids relegation, despite interest from both Aston Villa and Chelsea. (Source: Football Insider)

Tottenham are considering a move for Man Utd winger Marcus Rashford, who is expected to return to Old Trafford when his loan with Barcelona expires this summer. (Source: SPORT)

Manchester City are looking at Girona’s Azzedine Ounahi as a potential replacement for Bernardo Silva. (Source: El Chiringuito)

Chelsea are battling Brentford, Brighton & Hove Albion, Leeds United and Man City in pursuit of Genk midfielder Konstantinos Karetsas. (Source: TEAMtalk)

La Liga

Real Madrid have received an offer of $53 million (€45 million, £39 million) from Tottenham for young midfielder Franco Mastantuono, who could be sold this summer after an underwhelming debut season. (Source: Fichajes)

Real Sociedad goalkeeper Álex Remiro hopes to join Barcelona this summer but his current employers are working to convince him to stay. (Source: El Nacional)

Bernardo Silva’s desire to leave the Premier League when he departs Man City this summer has handed Barcelona a huge boost in the race for his signature. (Source: Football Insider)

Real Madrid want $18 million (€15 million) to sell midfielder Dani Ceballos, whose dream of a return to Real Betis has been dashed by that asking price. (Source: AS)

Barcelona see departing Borussia Dortmund midfielder Julian Brandt as a “golden option” this summer but will have to compete with Aston Villa, Newcastle and Atlético Madrid this summer. (Source: Fussballdaten)

Chelsea forward João Pedro is emerging as a popular striker target among officials inside Barcelona. (Source: Fichajes)

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Man Utd, Arsenal Plot Endrick Bids; Rashford Offered Premier League Lifeline.

Spurs collected three points for the first time since December with a 1–0 win against the already relegated Wolverhampton Wanderers. However, at the same time, Callum Wilson’s stoppage-time strike saw West Ham defeat Everton 2–1 to maintain a two-point cushion over Roberto De Zerbi’s men, who are remain stuck in the drop zone.

This all transpired a day after Nottingham Forest destroyed Sunderland 5–0 to make it three wins from their last four, keeping a five-point gap over 18th-placed Spurs. Leeds United are focused on their FA Cup semifinal against Chelsea on Sunday, but Sean Longstaff’s 97th-minute equalizer against Bournemouth midweek means their hopes for survival remain bright.

Things are looking increasingly dire for Spurs despite their win, but the race for Premier League survival appears destined to deliver even more drama in the remaining four games of the campaign.

Here’s how the remaining matches look for the protagonists of the dramatic relegation battle.

Tottenham, West Ham, Nott’m Forest and Leeds’ Fixtures Compared

Winning against Wolves was an obligation for Tottenham, but things get significantly more complicated next weekend when they face Champions League hopefuls Aston Villa. Working in Spurs’s favor is that Villa have a Europa League semifinal tie to worry about on either side of their weekend meeting, so there’s a slim chance Unai Emery is tempted to rotate his side.

Then comes a gargantuan home bout against Leeds that Spurs simply must find a way to win, before making the short trip to Stamford Bridge to face the struggling Chelsea.

Di Zerbi’s side finish the season at home against Everton, a match that will likely determine their fate.

West Ham will be feeling confident after their agonizing win against Everton and after collecting seven points in their last three, they’ll like their chances against Brentford, who haven’t won since February.

Then comes a daunting home match against title-hopefuls Arsenal, where the Hammers will be looking to pull-off a major upset. An away day against Newcastle United, whose dreadful form suggests there’s a slim chance they could still enter the relegation fight, is up next.

Nuno Espírito Santo’s side will welcome Leeds United to London stadium in the final game of the season. Both teams will hope to have their futures resolved by then.

Nottingham Forest are playing their best soccer of the season at the perfect time and will look to be the next team to take advantage of Chelsea’s torrid form when they visit Stamford Bridge next weekend. That contest is sandwiched by the Europa League semifinal tie vs. Aston Villa, so Vítor Pereira’s men will be pushed to the limit in the run-in

The Tricky Trees will then host the out-of-form Newcastle before traveling to Old Trafford for a tough match against the in-form Man Utd in the second-to-last matchweek of the season.

Forest will hope their safety is already guaranteed by the time Bournemouth visit the City Ground in the last game of the season.

Leeds United will hope to be FA Cup finalists by the time they host Championship-bound Burnley with a golden opportunity to collect three points that would all but guarantee their Premier League salvation.

The aforementioned visit to Tottenham follows and Leeds will certainly hope their survival is clinched before hosting the red-hot Brighton, who are dreaming of Champions League qualification.

West Ham away in the final game of the season could either be a formality for Daniel Farke’s side or an extremely nervy contest if they fail to protect the cushion they currently have over the relegation zone.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as How Tottenham, West Ham, Nott’m Forest and Leeds’ Remaining Premier League Fixtures Compare.

Tottenham Hotspur, who began the day in 18th, lost both Dominic Solanke and Xavi Simons to injury in an unspiring showing against Wolverhampton Wanderers, all while 17th-placed West Ham United battled to a one-goal lead at Everton.

With eight minutes left of the game, the entire relegation battle swung.

João Palhinha bundled home a winner for Spurs, whose fans had not stopped celebrating by the time news of an equalizer from Everton made its way around the crowd.

Spurs had climbed out of the relegation zone, leaving West Ham in their place ... for about five minutes, before Callum Wilson powered West Ham back into a stoppage-time lead to secure an enormous three points and sour what was a first win of 2026 for Spurs.

With just four games remaining in the battle for safety, the Opta supercomputer has predicted the outcome of an increasingly nervy relegation battle, with several teams fighting to avoid joining Wolves and Burnley in the Championship next season.

Supercomputer Predicts 2025–26 Premier League Relegation Battle

Unfortunately for those teams fighting for their lives, not one suffered any real blow this weekend.

Leeds United’s midweek draw with Bournemouth saw them reach the magical 40-point mark that usually defines safety. Daniel Farke’s side are not safe yet but know things are heading in the right direction—just a 0.98% chance of the drop.

Below them, Nottingham Forest are the form side in this battle, thumping Sunderland 5–0 on Friday to move within one point of Leeds. The boost in goal difference will feel like an extra point at this late stage in the season.

Victory for West Ham keeps them three points behind Forest but, most importantly, keeps Nuno Espírito Santo’s side outside the drop zone for another week. The supercomputer puts the Hammers’ relegation chances at 37.37%.

That is bad news for Spurs, who remain two points adrift of safety after a win that will feel more like a defeat after the deflating nature of West Ham’s late equalizer. Roberto De Zerbi’s side still face a 59.91% chance of relegation.

With Solanke and Simons both going off injured, Spurs move forwards weaker than they began the gameweek and they now prepare for a daunting trip to Aston Villa.

West Ham, meanwhile, face an equally tricky trip to a Brentford side still clinging on in the race for European qualification.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Supercomputer Predicts Premier League Relegation Battle After Late Drama for Tottenham, West Ham.

Premier League

Manchester United have identified Robert Lewandowski as a key summer addition once his Barcelona contract expires in June and are stepping up their pursuit. The veteran forward will turn 38 in August and is viewed as a mentor for the club’s youthful attack, especially on Champions League nights. Chelsea have also been credited with an approach for the Pole. (Source: Fichajes)

While Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United are all “serious” about snapping up Morgan Rogers, the Aston Villa star is considering a move abroad, with Paris Saint-Germain floated as a potential landing spot for the midfielder rated at more than $107.9 million (£80 million). (Source: talkSPORT)

Mikel Arteta has explicitly requested a move for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimarães. Arsenal would have to cough up in the region of $116.9 million (€100 million) for the Brazil international admired by Manchester United and Manchester City. (Source: Fichajes)

Juventus have already struck an agreement over personal terms for Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson. Convincing the defending Premier League champions to let the Brazilian leave is another matter entirely. (Source: Calciomercato)

Despite reported interest from Manchester United and Liverpool, Aurélien Tchouaméni has no intention of leaving Real Madrid. (Source: El Nacional)

Chelsea’s demands of $202.2 million (£150 million) for Cole Palmer are set to scare off Manchester United, despite “genuine and concrete” interest in the playmaker at Old Trafford. (Source: CaughtOffside)

Amid reports of interest from Manchester City, Enzo Fernández has ruled out a move to any club aside from Real Madrid, which appears to be the Chelsea midfielder’s first and only preference. (Source: El Nacional)

City have also been rebuffed by Sandro Tonali. The Newcastle star is expected to add United to his list of scorned suitors in pursuit of a return to Serie A. (Source: Sébastien Vidal)

Manchester City are poised to make a “very important” financial offer to Nottingham Forest for the services of Elliot Anderson, a player thought to be valued in the region of $134.8 million (£100 million). (Source: Fabrizio Romano)

Chelsea have opened the door to a surprise move for West Ham United captain Jarrod Bowen. The 29-year-old would be a deviation from the club’s youth-centric transfer model and offer competition to the underwhelming pairing of Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens. (Source: Fichajes)

As John Stones winds down his final few months at Manchester City, the England international has offered himself up to Juventus. The Serie A giant’s manager Luciano Spalletti is very much in favor of this free transfer, yet moves to AC Milan and Inter have not been ruled out just yet. (Source: Tuttosport)

Inter have been tipped to renew their interest in Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones after talks of a new contract for the Scouser have stalled. Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked with the midfielder. (Source: Calciomercato)

La Liga

Vitinha’s agent Jorge Mendes has asked PSG to be open to negotiations from Real Madrid regarding a blockbuster move for his client. (Source: El Nacional)

Barcelona’s interest in Milan forward Rafael Leão has gone “cold.” Man Utd are still thought to be interested but no team has proffered an offer in excess of $58.5 million |(€50 million) yet. (Source: Calciomercato)

There has still been no progress made over a contract renewal for Vinicius Junior at Real Madrid, four months on from his camp informing the club of his wage demands, which stand at a swollen $35.1 million (€30 million) per year. (Source: The Athletic)

Real Madrid have set a deadline of the World Cup for this standoff. Should Vinicius Jr and Los Blancos remain this far apart in negotiations, Madrid are expected to actively search for a suitor to buy the Brazilian forward. (Source: Fichajes)

Victor Osimhen could emerge as a target for Real Madrid, despite strong interest from Barcelona in the $116.9 million (€100 million) Galatasaray striker. (Source: El Nacional)

Unfazed by Madrid’s supposed interest in Osimhen, Barcelona could shift their focus to Sporting CP’s intriguingly named top scorer Luis Suárez, who bears no immediate relation to Inter Miami’s Uruguayan finisher. (Source: Cataluyna Rádio via El Nacional)

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Transfer Rumors: Man Utd’s $200 Million Palmer Stance; Alisson Agrees Liverpool Exit.

On the weekend when Manchester City capitalized on their growing momentum by beating the Premier League leaders, Aston Villa played out a seven-goal thriller with Sunderland and Tottenham Hotspur teased competence in their fight to survive the drop.

We can only hope for similar thrills this weekend, with the FA Cup semifinals meaning three games were brought forward. There are seven fixtures for us to enjoy, as Arsenal aim to respond to City’s usurping and the relegation battle intensifies.

Here are Sports Illustrated’s predictions for Gameweek 34.

Click here for the latest version of this article.

Sunderland 0–5 Nottingham Forest

• Date: Friday, April 24
• Time: 8 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT

Few expected much from Friday’s fixture. Don’t judge a book by its cover.

Nottingham Forest took a huge step towards safety with a 5–0 thumping of Sunderland, whose own hopes of sneaking into a European qualification spot took as much of a blow as the Black Cats’ morale.

Forest were 4–0 up before half-time, before the in-demand Elliot Anderson finished off the dominant victory in the dying embers of the second half to steer Forest eight points clear of the relegation zone heading into Saturday’s fixtures.

Fulham vs. Aston Villa

• Date: Saturday, April 25
• Time: 12:30 p.m. BST / 7:30 a.m. ET / 4:30 a.m. PT

Aston Villa have two avenues still open for a return to the Champions League, with Chelsea’s slump all but guaranteeing the Villans a top-five finish. Unai Emery’s side are also preparing for a Europa League semifinal against Forest.

A result for the visitors will move them up to third ahead of Manchester United’s clash on Monday night.

They’ve won their previous six meetings against Fulham, including a 3–1 triumph in the reverse fixture back in September. The Cottagers have had the chance over the past month to put themselves in European contention, but they’re down in 12th and struggling for momentum.

Still, Marco Silva’s side will move to within two points of Brighton & Hove Albion in sixth by securing a rare victory over Villa.

Prediction: Fulham 2–1 Aston Villa

Liverpool vs. Crystal Palace

• Date: Saturday, April 25
• Time: 3 p.m. BST / 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT

These two have already met at Anfield this season, with Crystal Palace taking advantage of a distinctly weak Liverpool team to advance in the Carabao Cup.

That victory won’t mean all that much when the pair lock horns on Saturday afternoon, especially with Palace putting all their eggs in the Conference League basket for the final month of the season. After beating Fiorentina in the quarterfinals, an exciting two-legged affair against Shakhtar Donetsk’s latest generation of Brazilian imports separates them from the final.

Liverpool should thus be able to make the most of their distracted visitors, given that they enter Saturday’s game off the back of earning Merseyside bragging rights in dramatic fashion. Virgil van Dijk’s 100th-minute header meant the Reds claimed victory in the first derby played at Everton’s shiny new home.

That win handed them breathing room in the top-five race. Brighton are the team they have to worry about now, but Arne Slot’s side can pull eight points clear of the Seagulls this weekend.

Prediction: Liverpool 2–1 Crystal Palace

West Ham United vs. Everton

• Date: Saturday, April 25
• Time: 3 p.m. BST / 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT

A huge couple of hours beckon in the dogfight down at the bottom after the fates of Wolverhampton Wanderers and Burnley were sealed in the week.

With Leeds and Forest starting to cut themselves adrift, it looks like it’s a straight shootout between West Ham United and Tottenham to avoid finishing 18th.

Both teams missed big opportunities last week, but West Ham remain in good touch. They’ve lost just twice in the Premier League since the start of February.

David Moyes is unlikely to be in a merciful mood when he returns to the London Stadium on Saturday, mind. His Everton team were beaten in the derby, but they’ve impressed on their travels this season. Win here, and they’d have collected the third-most points away from home in the top flight.

Moreover, a strong finish should see the Toffees play in Europe for the first time since 2017–18 next season.

Prediction: West Ham 2–2 Everton

Wolverhampton Wanderers vs. Tottenham Hotspur

• Date: Saturday, April 25
• Time: 3 p.m. BST / 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT

Georginio Rutter’s 95th-minute leveller sucked the life out of a euphoric Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, as Spurs failed to see out their first Premier League victory of 2026 after Xavi Simons lifted the roof off their glorious amphitheatre with a sumptuous strike.

Still, there were signs of life from the Lilywhites. Roberto De Zerbi’s impact was certainly felt after an inauspicious start at Sunderland, with Spurs impressing out of possession and offering a creative spark via Xavi’s right boot.

This is as must-win as it gets for the Lilywhites. De Zerbi believes his team can go five for five down the stretch to preserve their Premier League status, but they must take each game as it comes. Supporters will be thrilled if they merely go one for one.

Wolves haven’t performed like one of the competition’s worst-ever teams for much of Rob Edwards’s tutelage, but they’re down after losing heavily in back-to-back games to West Ham and Leeds United.

Prediction: Wolves 1–3 Tottenham

Arsenal vs. Newcastle United

• Date: Saturday, April 25
• Time: 5:30 p.m. BST / 12:30 p.m. ET / 9:30 a.m. PT

Arsenal could perhaps take some solace from the fact that Manchester City didn’t run up the score on Wednesday night, even if their 1–0 win at Burnley left the Gunners second in the table for the first time since October.

The two teams are level on points and goal difference, with City only ahead on goals scored. However, it’s Pep Guardiola’s side who boast all the momentum. Arsenal desperately need to reset and go again at the start of this exciting new mini-league which has been crafted for the final month of the season.

Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United often trouble the Gunners, beating them three times last season, but they’re currently one of the division’s poorest-performing teams and are looking towards the summer already.

The visitors have lost three in a row since exiting the Champions League.

Prediction: Arsenal 1–0 Newcastle

Manchester United vs. Brentford

• Date: Monday, April 27
• Time: 8 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT

There’s no Premier League action on Sunday, so the gameweek concludes at Old Trafford on Monday night.

Leeds prevailed at the Theatre of Dreams during Manchester United’s previous outing on home soil, but the Red Devils impressively bounced back at Stamford Bridge last weekend. Matheus Cunha’s well-taken finish proved the difference between the two sides, as United took a giant leap towards securing a top-five finish.

They have a comfortable buffer over sixth, even if Villa leapfrog them into third on Saturday afternoon.

Brentford, meanwhile, have never won a Premier League game at Old Trafford, and now would be an excellent time to claim a historic victory. They’ve remarkably drawn five league games in a row, allowing others to capitalize on Chelsea’s stunning downturn.

Still, they’re well in the European mix, with an eighth-place finish potentially enough to qualify for the Conference League.

Prediction: Man Utd 2–1 Brentford

Premier League Predictions: Gameweek 34

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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Premier League Predictions: Gameweek 34.