Author: FNR

Stoke City have secured the return of highly-rated defender Ashley Phillips from Tottenham Hotspur on a season-long loan ahead of the 2025–26 campaign. The 20-year-old centre-back impressed during his previous spell with the Potters, making 39 appearances across all competitions last season. Despite interest from Sheffield United and other Championship clubs, Stoke won the race to bring him back for another term. 📞 “Sí… Es oficial.” Rashford sigue los pasos de Lineker. pic.twitter.com/vFcCNwXN0d — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) July 23, 2025 He becomes the fifth signing under new head coach Mark Robins, joining Aaron Cresswell, Maksym Talovierov, Sorba Thomas, and Divin…

Tottenham Hotspur defender Ashley Phillips has rejoined Stoke City on a season-long loan, marking his second consecutive campaign with the Potters. The 20-year-old made 39 appearances across all competitions last season and had reportedly drawn interest from Championship rivals Sheffield United. Despite the competition, Stoke secured his return — a move described by the club as a major achievement. “Ashley loved his time here last season, and that made a big difference,” said Stoke sporting director Jonathan Walters. “Securing his return took significant behind-the-scenes work, and we’re thrilled to have him back.” Phillips, still awaiting his senior debut with Spurs,…

After more than a decade and a half of dedication, Atlético de Madrid and Saúl Ñíguez have mutually agreed to part ways, officially ending the midfielder’s long-standing chapter with the club. Saúl will now embark on a new journey with Brazilian giants Flamengo, marking the next stage of his professional career. Hailing from Elche, Saúl joined the Atlético academy in 2008 and rose through the ranks to become a club icon. Since making his first-team debut in 2012, he has accumulated 427 appearances, 48 goals, and six major trophies, earning his place as the ninth most-capped player in club history.…

Chelsea’s pursuit of defensive reinforcements has taken a step forward, with Dutch talent Jorrel Hato now firmly on their radar. The 19-year-old Ajax star, known for his versatility at both left-back and centre-back, has attracted significant interest from across Europe—but it’s the Blues who are moving quickest. Speaking to De Telegraaf, Hato’s agent, Humphry Nijman, confirmed that Chelsea have formally reached out to Ajax regarding a potential transfer. “Jorrel is currently in discussions with Chelsea,” Nijman stated, adding that club-to-club negotiations are also underway. Hato has risen rapidly through the ranks, debuting for the Dutch national team in November 2023.…

Speaking to L’Équipe, former Liverpool striker Djibril Cissé hailed Hugo Ekitike’s evolution since leaving Paris Saint-Germain, describing the striker as “unrecognisable” from the player who once struggled to make an impact in Ligue 1. “He’s not the same player he was at PSG,” Cissé said. “Now he’s bold again—trying daring things, and they’re working.” After a frustrating spell in Paris that saw him largely sidelined, Ekitike revived his career with a stellar campaign at Eintracht Frankfurt. The 22-year-old netted 22 goals and provided 12 assists across all competitions in the 2024/25 season, catching the attention of top European clubs. His…

Stade Brestois were reportedly tracking Gabriel Slonina before shifting their attention to Maxime Dupé, as the club continues its search for a new goalkeeper following Marco Bizot’s departure. This is according to insider Mohamed Toubache-Ter. The Breton side opted to part ways with the experienced Dutchman Marco Bizot (34), allowing him to leave a year before the end of his contract as a gesture of appreciation for his contributions. Bizot has since joined Aston Villa, where he is expected to provide backup for Emiliano Martinez. Slonina Interest Fades as Brest Prioritize Experience Brest initially explored the possibility of signing Gabriel…

Dundee United boss Jim Goodwin has confirmed that the club will learn more about Ross Graham’s injury early next week, as the defender awaits assessment from medical specialists. The 24-year-old centre-back is believed to have suffered a hamstring issue, casting doubt over his availability for the start of United’s competitive campaign. “The only downside to our pre-season so far has been Ross Graham’s injury,” Goodwin told the club’s media following a 1-1 draw with Oldham Athletic on Sunday.“We expect to have a clearer picture early next week, once we receive feedback from the medical team and specialists.” Squad Fitness Taking…

Patrick Dorgu shares the belief of manager Ruben Amorim that the challenges of last season will serve as a valuable foundation for the future — both for the team and for himself personally. Amorim has expressed optimism that the difficult transitional period the club endured last season will ultimately prove beneficial, helping players better understand the demands of Premier League football and what’s required to succeed at the highest level. Dorgu fully agrees — and sees this new chapter as his opportunity to truly shine. “The Best Is Still to Come” – Dorgu Ready for Breakout Season The Denmark international,…

Randal Kolo Muani is fast becoming one of the most sought-after forwards in European football, with Manchester United and Newcastle United both showing serious interest in signing the Paris Saint-Germain striker. Following an eye-catching loan spell at Juventus, the 26-year-old’s stock has risen sharply across the continent. According to FootMercato, Kolo Muani’s performances in Serie A have drawn admiration from several top clubs. His time in Turin was short but impactful — eight goals in 19 appearances, including a stunning run of five goals in three matches, have elevated him to the radar of Europe’s elite. Juventus are eager to…

Inter Milan have made it clear that rising star Francesco Pio Esposito is not for sale this summer, despite receiving approaches from both Manchester United and Atalanta for the young forward. The 20-year-old Italian striker is considered a vital part of Inter’s long-term strategy, and club sources confirm that the Nerazzurri have already rejected two formal inquiries for his services. Premier League Interest Turned Down Manchester United were the first to express interest, initially making contact during the January transfer window, when Esposito was impressing on loan at Spezia in Serie B. Despite the English club’s interest, Inter quickly dismissed…

Atletico Madrid are actively pursuing a new central defender as part of their summer rebuild and have now turned their attention to Chelsea’s Renato Veiga following the collapse of their pursuit of Tottenham’s Cristian Romero. With key defensive reinforcements high on the club’s agenda, Atletico have already begun discussions to sign the 21-year-old Portuguese defender, who spent last season on loan at Juventus. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, initial talks with Veiga’s representatives have taken place, and the player is reportedly open to a move to the RiyadhAir Metropolitano. Veiga Emerges as Key Defensive Target Veiga, who has made…

Liverpool are reportedly committed to securing a long-term future for Ibrahima Konaté, as the club seeks to fend off mounting interest from Real Madrid, according to L’Équipe. The 26-year-old French defender, whose current deal with the Reds runs until 2026, has become a central figure in Liverpool’s defensive plans. However, with less than a year left on his contract before entering its final stretch, talks are heating up. Despite already presenting renewal offers to Konaté’s camp, Liverpool’s proposals have so far fallen short of expectations, the French outlet reports. In the meantime, Real Madrid are believed to be closely monitoring…