Football
Results, transfers and decisions shaping the game.
Football
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Arsenal exploring shock Vinícius Júnior transfer from Real Madrid
Arsenal have inquired about signing Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior, who has one year left on his contract.
The Gunners are reportedly exploring a surprise move for the Brazil international as Mikel Arteta seeks a marquee signing to build on their Premier League title win. Vinícius Júnior scored 22 goals for Real Madrid last season and four for Brazil at the World Cup. While any potential move is believed to be in its early stages, the interest signals Arsenal's ambition in the transfer market.
Sources
Liverpool begin Iraola era with win but suffer Gomez injury blow
Andoni Iraola secured a winning start as Liverpool's new head coach, with his side defeating Sunderland 4-2 in a pre-season friendly in Nashville.
Despite the victory, concerns over Liverpool's defensive options were heightened when Joe Gomez was forced off with an injury after just 10 minutes. This forced two teenagers to form the central defensive partnership for the remainder of the match, intensifying the spotlight on a department in need of reinforcement. Goals from Dominik Szoboszlai, Federico Chiesa, and Lewis Koumas secured the win for Liverpool.
Celtic nearing deal for Bodo/Glimt striker Hogh
Celtic are on the verge of signing striker Kasper Hogh from Bodo/Glimt, with the player expected to undergo a medical within 24 hours.
The Scottish champions' manager, Martin O'Neill, confirmed that the move for the Bodo/Glimt forward is progressing rapidly. This potential signing indicates Celtic's continued activity in the transfer market as they look to strengthen their squad for upcoming competitions.
Sources
Eddie Howe uncertain on Bruno Guimaraes' Newcastle future amid Arsenal interest
Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has stated he has had positive discussions with captain Bruno Guimaraes.
Howe's comments come amid reported interest from Arsenal in the Brazilian midfielder. While Howe expressed optimism about his conversations with Guimaraes, the uncertainty surrounding the player's future at St James' Park persists due to the ongoing transfer speculation.
Sources
Jermain Defoe's Woking exit linked to 'growing concerns' and missed training
Woking director of football Jody Brown has revealed 'growing concerns' across the club preceded Jermain Defoe's departure as manager.
Brown claimed the former Tottenham striker failed to attend training sessions, contributing to the mutual termination of his contract after four months. Defoe's first managerial stint saw two wins and one defeat in six matches, and he had previously described the experience as 'eye-opening' and 'impossible to continue'.
Sources
Roberto De Zerbi tells unhappy Tottenham players to leave
Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto de Zerbi has stated that players who are not 'proud and happy to stay' at the club should depart.
De Zerbi's strong stance suggests a desire to foster a committed squad atmosphere. This comments come as the club looks to reshape its playing personnel, implying that anyone not fully dedicated to Tottenham's cause will not be part of his plans.
Sources
Chelsea pursuing Aston Villa set-piece coach MacPhee
Chelsea are in discussions to sign Aston Villa's highly-regarded set-piece coach, Austin MacPhee.
The move indicates Chelsea's focus on strengthening their coaching staff, particularly in specialist areas. However, they face competition from other Premier League clubs and those in the Saudi Pro League for MacPhee's signature.
Sources
Barcelona acknowledge worker's death during stadium renovations
Barcelona has expressed its support for the family of a worker who died during ongoing renovations at the Nou Camp stadium.
The tragic incident casts a shadow over the club's stadium redevelopment project. Barcelona has pledged to offer support to the bereaved family following the fatality at their iconic ground.
Sources
Football
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Klopp takes Germany job, vows to 'change a country' but warns media off family
Jürgen Klopp has been confirmed as Germany's new head coach, succeeding Julian Nagelsmann.
In his first press conference, Klopp stated his ambition is for the team to "change a country." However, he issued a strong warning to the media, threatening to resign if his family is hounded during his tenure. He also suggested this role will be his last in top-level football and expressed regret for past comments made about his predecessor while working as a pundit during the World Cup. Germany has struggled in recent tournaments, failing to reach the knockout stages of the last World Cup and not making the last 16 since their 2014 victory.
Sources
Maresca takes the reins at Man City, vows not to be a 'copy and paste' coach
Enzo Maresca has officially succeeded Pep Guardiola as the new manager of Manchester City.
In his first press conference, Maresca vowed not to be a "copy and paste" coach, indicating his intention to bring his own style to the club. He acknowledged the significant task of following Guardiola's highly successful tenure. Maresca also paid tribute to Kevin Keegan, a former City manager, highlighting his awareness of the club's history. Maresca's appointment comes as the club navigates the future of midfielder Rodri, who is set to undergo back surgery.
Sources
Rodri to undergo back surgery; Real Madrid confident of signing him
Manchester City midfielder Rodri is scheduled to undergo back surgery.
New Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca confirmed that Rodri will have back surgery, raising questions about his availability for the start of the Premier League season. Meanwhile, reports from BBC Sport suggest that Real Madrid are confident they can sign the Spanish international. This comes amid speculation about Manchester City's midfield options, with BBC Sport also exploring how the club might manage without Rodri.
Newcastle sign Aladji Bamba; West Ham's Summerville joins Al-Hilal
Newcastle United have completed the signing of midfielder Aladji Bamba from Monaco.
Newcastle's fourth signing of the summer, the 20-year-old Bamba, has agreed to a five-year contract in a deal potentially worth up to £34m. Bamba expressed his excitement about joining the club and its history. In a separate transfer, West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville has moved to Saudi club Al-Hilal for a fee reported to be £60m.
Sources
Liverpool in talks for minority stake sale; Bezos linked
Liverpool's owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), are in negotiations with a consortium led by Amit Bhatia regarding the sale of a minority stake in the club.
The discussions involve a consortium fronted by Amit Bhatia, with speculation also linking Jeff Bezos to a potential investment. This news emerges as Liverpool looks to strengthen its position off the field.
Sources
Man Utd midfield targets remain elusive as club seeks signings
Manchester United have been linked with numerous midfielders throughout the transfer window.
Despite missing out on players like Elliot Anderson, who joined Manchester City, and failing to secure targets such as Aurélien Tchouaméni, Manchester United continues to be linked with various central midfielders. Reports mention interest in Éderson, Andrey Santos, and Youri Tielemans as the club aims to bolster its midfield.
Sources
Real Madrid's £85m bid for Diomande rejected by RB Leipzig
RB Leipzig has turned down an £85.4 million bid from Real Madrid for winger Yan Diomande.
The significant offer from the Spanish giants was not enough to persuade RB Leipzig to part with the highly-rated winger. The transfer news indicates Real Madrid's continued pursuit of attacking reinforcements.
Sources
Crystal Palace interested in young defender Raphael le Guen
Crystal Palace are reportedly interested in signing 19-year-old centre-back Raphael le Guen from Brest.
The Premier League club is looking to strengthen its defence with the potential acquisition of the young French defender. Le Guen represents a move for emerging talent as Palace aims to build for the future.
Sources
Austin FC academy players under investigation for alleged sexual abuse
Multiple players within the Major League Soccer club Austin FC's academy are currently under investigation by local police and the FBI.
The investigation centers on allegations of sexual abuse among academy players, with multiple families reportedly bringing the claims to the club. The Austin Police Department has confirmed the ongoing inquiry, but no further details can be shared due to the involvement of juveniles and the sensitive nature of the ongoing investigation.
Sources
Scottish sides postpone league matches due to European fixtures
All five Scottish teams competing in European competitions have decided to postpone their domestic league matches scheduled for Saturday, August 22.
This decision reflects a prioritization of European campaigns, allowing the clubs to focus their resources and energy on continental fixtures. The postponements will impact the Scottish Premiership schedule.
Sources
Senegal's Afcon appeal date set after title stripped
The Court of Arbitration for Sport has scheduled a hearing date for Senegal's appeal against being stripped of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title.
Senegal is contesting the decision to remove their title, and the upcoming hearing will determine the outcome of their appeal. The case highlights a significant dispute within African football.
Sources
Spain coach De la Fuente condemns Argentina's 'intolerable' World Cup final behaviour
Spain's head coach, Luis de la Fuente, has strongly criticized the behavior of Argentina's players following the World Cup final.
De la Fuente described the actions of the Argentinian players as "intolerable" and "unacceptable," specifically referencing confrontations with Spanish players like Rodri, Eric García, and Gavi. Despite these incidents, FIFA's investigation into the matter has not yet resulted in any sanctions.
Sources
Football
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Elliot Anderson completes record £116m move to Manchester City
Elliot Anderson has completed a move to Manchester City from Nottingham Forest for £116m.
The midfielder, who was a key part of England's World Cup campaign, has signed a five-year deal and is tipped to become a 'complete midfielder' at his new club. Anderson has declared Manchester City the "kings of Manchester" following his transfer. Prior to Morgan Rogers' transfer, Anderson's fee was the record for a British player.
Sources
Aston Villa secure Garnacho loan from Chelsea
Aston Villa have signed Chelsea winger Alejandro Garnacho on a season-long loan deal.
The loan agreement includes a conditional obligation to buy Garnacho, who joined Chelsea from Manchester United for £40m last August. Garnacho struggled to make a significant impact at Stamford Bridge, scoring eight goals in 43 appearances across all competitions. This move follows Morgan Rogers' switch to Chelsea and is seen as a potential route to redemption for the 22-year-old winger under Unai Emery.
Italy held talks with Ancelotti and Guardiola for national team manager role
The Italian football federation (FIGC) has held discussions with both Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola regarding their vacant national team manager position.
Italy is seeking a new coach after failing to qualify for the last three World Cups. Paolo Maldini confirmed that talks have taken place with Ancelotti, currently managing Brazil, and Guardiola, who is out of work. The FIGC hopes to announce their new manager within the week as they aim to recover from their recent qualification failures.
Sources
Man Utd midfield targets' valuations emerge amid transfer speculation
Valuations for several Manchester United midfield targets have been revealed.
Real Madrid is reportedly open to selling Aurelien Tchouameni to Manchester United. Other transfer rumours include Arsenal eyeing John Stones and Ezri Konsa, Chelsea being favourites for Kerim Alajbegovic, Yan Diomande back on the radar of Premier League clubs, and Daizen Maeda set for an Ipswich Town move.
Sources
Rodri to undergo back surgery, facing potential Premier League start absence
Manchester City midfielder Rodri is scheduled to undergo minor surgery on his back.
The procedure means the World Cup winner could miss the start of the upcoming Premier League season. Further details on the exact recovery timeline are not yet available, but the surgery is described as minor.
Sources
Arsenal preparing significant bid for Bruno Guimaraes
Arsenal are reportedly preparing to make a £70m offer for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes.
The potential transfer would represent a significant investment for Arsenal as they look to strengthen their squad. Guimaraes has been a key player for Newcastle since his arrival.
Sources
Premier League clubs urged to contribute more to policing costs
An increase in football-related anti-social behaviour and disorder has led to calls for Premier League clubs to increase their contribution to policing costs.
The Home Office report indicates a 4% rise in matches with reported incidents during the 2025-26 season, with reports made at 1,644 games. While arrests have returned to pre-Covid figures, the number of police incidents at matches has reached record levels, prompting concerns about the burden on taxpayers.
Sources
Defoe departs Woking after 'eye-opening' first managerial stint
Jermain Defoe has left his managerial role at Woking after four months and nine matches in charge.
The former England and Tottenham striker described his first experience in management as an "eye-opening experience." His tenure at the National League side concluded with his departure.
Sources
Rangers sign midfielder Vanja Dragojevic
Rangers have completed the signing of midfielder Vanja Dragojevic.
The Serbian midfielder has signed an initial four-year contract with the Scottish club, becoming their seventh summer arrival.
Sources
Luka Modric, 40, signs contract extension with AC Milan
AC Milan midfielder Luka Modric has signed a one-year contract extension with the club.
The Croatian international, who will turn 41 in September, has committed his future to AC Milan for another season.
Sources
Domestic abuse reports surged during 2026 World Cup
Figures show that domestic abuse reports reached record highs in the UK during the 2026 World Cup.
A significant increase in incidents was recorded, particularly around the times of England's matches. The report highlights a correlation between the major international tournament and a rise in domestic abuse cases.
Sources
Women's Super League fans discuss experiences and potential improvements
BBC Sport has spoken with fans of the Women's Super League and England Lionesses to gather feedback on their experiences and identify areas for improvement.
The discussions aim to understand what is working well and what could be enhanced within the women's game. Fan perspectives are crucial in shaping the future development and accessibility of the WSL and national team support.
Sources