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Leeds United travelled to the City Ground on Sunday with just one away win under their belt this season in the Premier League.

Thankfully, they were about to do battle with a Nottingham Forest side who had only won once on their patch all season long in league action.

But, come the end of the frantic affair, the Tricky Trees collected their first home victory since August, as Sean Dyche’s men comfortably got the better of Daniel Farke’s visitors in a 3-1 win, having notched up 14 efforts at Lucas Perri’s shaky goal.

Journalist Graham Smyth labelled Leeds’ overall performance at the final whistle as “desperately poor” as the West Yorkshire side now hang precariously above the dreaded relegation zone.

Jaka Bijol – in particular – had another afternoon to forget in the heart of the away team’s leaky defence.

Bijol's poor performance vs Forest

Bijol’s day wasn’t completely pitiful, with the Slovenian centre-back coming away from the 3-1 defeat with four of his six duels being successfully won.

Unfortunately for the £15m summer recruit, regardless of having some positives to latch on to, he was still caught out by a moment of ball-watching to hand the hosts the decisive 2-1 lead, as Morgan Gibbs-White evaded his marker to head home.

It was a nicely executed move by Forest, with Omari Hutchinson getting the better of Gabriel Gudmundsson’s lax marking, before putting it on a plate for Gibbs-White.

But, the former Wolverhampton Wanderers playmaker was given far too much room to head past Perri, off the back of Bijol being caught in no man’s land.

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Having also struggled against Brighton and Hove Albion on the road, before this slip-up in Nottinghamshire, when winning zero tackles and just one duel, it could well be time for Farke to move the former Udinese man back to the bench, for the more Premier League-ready Pascal Struijk to take over.

Bijol isn’t the only defensive option who could now be dropped by Farke, however.

Leeds dud had his worst game of the season

In all fairness, nobody donning Leeds’ changed strip of blue was trudging off at the end of the 3-1 loss, overjoyed with what they offered up.

Ethan Ampadu definitely won’t have been thrilled with what he conjured up as Farke’s supposed midfield anchor, with the Welshman both uncharacteristically sloppy with the ball at his feet and surprisingly weak when launching himself into duels.

Ampadu’s performance in numbers

Stat

Ampadu

Minutes played

90

Shots

2

Key passes

0

Dribbles

0

Touches

57

Accurate passes

31/41 (76%)

Possession lost

15x

Tackles won

1/2

Fouls

3

Total duels won

4/9

Stats by Sofascore

The promotion-winning captain fell way below the standards he had previously set when lining up for the West Yorkshire giants, with Ampadu coming away from the 3-1 loss with only 76% of his passes reaching their chosen target. On average, this season, so far, he typically completes 86% of his passes.

Moreover, the below-par number 4 would lack his usual bite and drive, with only one of his tackles being successfully won, which led to Ampadu barely laying a glove on the tricky Dan Ndoye early on, before his quick feet down the flank led to Ibrahim Sangare firing home the equaliser.

Ampadu also didn’t help Bijol out when Gibbs-White sent the City Ground into raptures, with the former Chelsea midfielder also guilty of idly watching the ball, before the match-winning effort was prodded home.

For a defensive option that usually prides himself on winning duels and being energetic – as seen in him averaging 4.3 duels won this season – it really did feel like a low point for him against the Tricky Trees on Sunday afternoon, as Farke now contemplates whether dropping one of his “indispensable” promotion heroes, as he was once labelled by scout Jacek Kulig, is the correct call.

Ampadu faced the media after, calling for togetherness as Leeds attempt to navigate the choppy seas of a relegation battle, with his concrete starting spot now up for grabs, as the likes of Ao Tanaka and Ilia Gruev eye up a spot in defensive midfield, instead.

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Posts ByJoe Nuttall Nov 9, 2025

Just months after being written off as a Barcelona flop, Vitor Roque has reignited his career in spectacular fashion. Now Palmeiras' top scorer and a key figure in their title chase, the 20-year-old has earned a Brazil call-up from Carlo Ancelotti – a moment he calls “the best phase of my life”. From struggling in Spain to thriving back home, Roque’s resurgence underscores how the right environment and consistent game time can revive a player’s career.

• From prodigy to pressure – Roque's Barcelona struggle

  When Roque signed for Barcelona in July 2023 for €35 million, he was hailed as Brazil’s next great striker. Fresh from 15 goals with Athletico Paranaense and a standout U-20 Championship, expectations were sky-high. But the dream quickly soured. Rushed into the squad midseason at then-coach Xavi’s insistence, Roque struggled to adapt to the club’s intense demands, managing just two goals in 16 appearances.

  The January arrival proved ill-timed – as Barcelona sporting director Deco later admitted – leaving the teenager overwhelmed by pressure, language barriers, and tactical rigidity. A loan spell to Real Betis in 2024 offered little reprieve, and by early 2025, Roque looked like another South American talent who had flown too close to the European sun.

  Now starring for Palmeiras, Roque has rediscovered his confidence and form by scoring 19 goals across competitions in 2025. His performances have powered Palmeiras' title charge and earned him a long-awaited call-up to the Brazilian national team by Carlo Ancelotti. From doubts and disappointment to a national recall, Roque’s resurgence marks one of the most impressive turnarounds of the season.

  "I always say that football is very fast-paced. Six months ago, nothing was going right, and today, thank God, I'm very happy. Palmeiras helped me in an extraordinary way; I got back to playing the football I always used to, and, thank God, things are flowing, which is the most important thing," Roque said after receiving his first national call-up.

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• Getty Images Sport
  

  Joining Palmeiras and the turning point

  Rejecting a lucrative offer from Al-Hilal, Roque returned to Brazil with Palmeiras in February. At first, it wasn’t easy: 900 minutes without a goal tested his confidence. But Palmeiras stood by him, and gradually, the goals began to flow. With 19 goals in 2025 across all competitions, including 15 in the Brasileirao, he’s become one of the league’s most lethal forwards.

  His impact has been immediate, leading Palmeiras to the top of the Serie A table with 65 points, just ahead of Flamengo. In addition, his brace against Santos and a crucial goal in the Copa Libertadores semi-final against River Plate showcased his ability to deliver in big moments. He ranks among the league’s top three scorers, behind only Giorgian de Arrascaeta and Kaio Jorge, both with 17 goals.

  For Roque, this is redemption not just in statistics but in mindset. “It’s one of the best phases of my life,” he told reporters. “I arrive at the national team with my feet on the ground, working with humility. First at Palmeiras and then there as well.” His chemistry with teammates like Flaco Lopez and Raphael Veiga has been key, the trio have combined for 38 goals in all competitions this season.

• A national recall and growing European interest

  Ancelotti’s decision to include Roque in Brazil’s squad for friendlies against Senegal and Tunisia marks a new chapter in his young career. Former Brazil international, Rivaldo, admitted he was surprised but impressed: “I was also struck by the fact that he brought in Vitor Roque from Palmeiras, who has been playing well for a few games now. He started with some difficulties, but now he's in good form and it's a good opportunity for him. The coach is still testing some players; I was even hoping there wouldn't be any more of these tests, but I believe he already has the core group formed for the World Cup.”

  Ancelotti’s approach to Brazil’s roster has focused on blending established stars like Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo with emerging domestic players who can bring hunger and rhythm from the Brasileirao. Roque’s selection fits that strategy perfectly.

  "I see that Ancelotti is starting to shape the national team. He certainly already has a base of players for the World Cup. Of course, he's doing some tests with athletes who stand out in the Brazilian Championship. I really liked the call-up of Fabrício Bruno, from Cruzeiro, even after the mistake against Japan. It's a good attitude and shows that the coach has a good heart and trusts him. Many criticised the player, he shouldn't even have hope of being called up, and Ancelotti showed that he believes in him, that he doesn't just look at the mistake, but everything the athlete has done well in his career," explained Rivaldo in an interaction with Betfair.

  Meanwhile, Roque’s resurgence hasn’t gone unnoticed abroad. His agent, Andre Cury, confirmed that Premier League clubs are already preparing bids. According to reports, Manchester United are leading the race, with Chelsea and Tottenham also monitoring the 20-year-old forward. Barcelona, who retained a 20% sell-on clause when selling him to Palmeiras, could receive around €10m if a deal materialises.

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• Getty Images Sport
  

  A comeback that could reshape Roque's future

  As things stand, Roque’s focus remains firmly on Palmeiras and Brazil. His goals have put the club on course for another league title and deep into the Libertadores campaign, and his national team call-up could pave the way for a spot in Ancelotti’s 2026 World Cup plans. His first task is to impress the Brazil boss for continued chances as Brazil face Senegal on 15 November and then Tunisia on November 19.

  Goals and contributions in these games can be crucial for continued call-ups to the national team and a starting place in next year's World Cup.

Glasgow Rangers are already on the lookout to replace Russell Martin as manager, with an “amazing” individual admired by those high up at Ibrox.

Gers on the search for Ibrox saviour

Martin was relieved of his duties by the Gers on Sunday evening, following yet more dropped points in the Scottish Premiership, falling further behind Celtic in the process.

The limp 1-1 draw away to Falkirk proved to be the final straw for the Englishman, who had spent a tumultuous time in charge, consistently struggling to convince the fanbase, in terms of results, performances and tactics.

It’s now a case of Rangers looking for the right man to come in and replace Martin, with former Everton and Burnley boss Sean Dyche one of the names thrown into the hat recently. His style of play is completely different, but it is arguably what the Gers need, and the 54-year-old is thought to be keen on taking the job.

It is important that the club take their time in finding Martin’s replacement, however, following a period of struggle, and now another name has been mentioned as an option for the Scottish giants.

Rangers eyeing "amazing" 4-2-3-1 manager

According to talkSPORT, Danny Rohl has emerged as a target for Rangers, with the German currently without a job after departing Sheffield Wednesday in the summer.

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Matt Dawson

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The report states that the 36-year-old is “appreciated by senior figures” at Ibrox, with former Gers manager Steven Gerrard also in the mix to return to the club.

Rohl would be an exciting choice by Rangers, considering he is a young manager with fresh ideas, being hailed by Wednesday legend Chris Waddle for the job he did in tough circumstances at Hillsborough.

The 4-2-3-1-playing Rohl would hopefully bring improved man management compared to Martin, who openly criticised his players after the opening game of the season, and he did a superb job in steering Wednesday clear of relegation in 2023/24, having looked doomed when he arrived.

MatériaMais Notícias

Grêmio e Cruzeiro se enfrentam neste domingo (27), às 19h (de Brasília), pela 21ª rodada do Campeonato Brasileiro. A partida acontecerá na Arena do Grêmio.A partida será transmitida pelo Premiere e pelo SporTV.

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+ Bora lucrar com o Tricolor! Aposte R$10 e ganhe mais de R$65 com Suárez e o Grêmio no Brasileirão!

O Cruzeiro entra em campo tentando se recuperar no campeonato. Sem vencer há 6 jogos, o time comandado por Pepa confia em Bruno Rodrigo no comando do ataque e Rafael Cabral no gol para garantir a vitória e respirar no Brasileirão.

Já o Grêmio está mais folgado na tabela. O time vem superando as expectativas no primeiro ano de volta a Série A e segue brigando firme no G-4. Agora que foi eliminado na Copa do Brasil, o Tricolor pode voltar as atenções somentepara o Brasileirão e garantir uma vaga na próxima Libertadores.

Grêmio x Cruzeiro
CAMPEONATO BRASILEIRO – 21ª RODADA

Local:Arena do Grêmio, Porto Alegre (RS)
Data e hora:27 de agosto de 2023, às 19h (Brasília)
Árbitro:Marcelo de Lima Henrique (CE)
Assistentes:Eduardo Gonçalves da Cruz (MS) e Renan Aguiar da Costa (CE)
Árbitro de vídeo:Rafael Traci (FIFA-SC)
Onde assistir:Premiere e SporTV

PROVÁVEIS ESCALAÇÕES

GRÊMIO
Gabriel Grando; Fábio, Bruno Alves, Kannemann e Cuiabano; Pepê e Villasanti; Bitello, Cristaldo e Ferreira (Rodrigo Ely); Suárez.
Técnico:Renato Gaúcho.

CRUZEIRO
Rafael Cabral; Helibelton Palacios, Neris, Luciano Castan e Marlon; Lucas Silva e Jussa; Wesley, Arthur Gomes e Bruno Rodrigues; Rafael Elias.
Técnico:Pepa.

+ Tem promoção exclusiva de boas-vindas pra você! Aposte a partir de R$10 e receba até R$200 de bônus na Lance! Betting

Rayan has emerged as one of the most promising talents in Brazilian football and his performances haven't gone unnoticed by some of the Premier League's heavy hitters. Tottenham have now emerged as the favourites to sign the teenage forward, who has also attracted interest from Chelsea, Liverpool and Aston Villa. However, it's Spurs who are the frontrunners for the 19-year-old.

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Rayan continuing to shine for Vasco

  Rayan has established himself as a key man for Brazilian giants Vasco da Gama having recently bagged a brace in a 4-3 victory over Vitoria. The talented teen has now scored nine league goals this season and has been tipped to make his senior Brazil debut before long.

  Vasco are reluctant to lose their prized asset but are aware of significant interest from top European sides looking to bolster their frontline. Chelsea and Liverpool have previously been linked with a move for Rayan but a recent report now suggests that Tottenham are the favourites to sign the versatile forward.

  The Brazilian side believe Rayan will leave before the end of the year and according to Portuguese publication O Dia, will demand €30m (£26m) in order to come to the negotiating table. However, it's also reported that Vasco will accept €20m up front with a further €5m in add-ons.

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• Spurs would face competition for Rayan

  Tottenham have since emerged as frontrunners to sign Rayan from Vasco and are believed to be willing to offer the full €30m up front in order to secure his services. The north London side have been monitoring the for months now and sent scouts to watch the 19-year-old earlier this year.

  Spurs, though, would face competition from a number of Premier League rivals for Rayan, with Aston Villa among those keeping tabs on the forward. Barcelona, Zenit, Chelsea and Nottingham Forest have also been credited with an interest in the forward.

  In a fresh twist, Vasco are also believed to be keen on extending Rayan's current contract in a bid to raise his €40m (£35m) release clause and strengthen their hold on the talented Brazilian. Journalist Jorge Nicola has reported that Vasco president Pedrinho is working to tie the player down to a new deal.

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Spurs announced cash injection on Thursday

  Tottenham have money to spend in the New Year after the club injected £100m of capital into the club. Majority shareholders, the Lewis Family, are prepared to back the north London side financially as they look to witness long-term success on the field.

  "We are pleased to announce that our majority shareholder, the Lewis family trust, has, through ENIC Sports & Development Holdings Ltd (“ENIC”), injected £100 million of new capital into the Club," a statement read on Tottenham's official website on Thursday.

  "This equity injection will further strengthen the Club’s financial position and equip the Club’s leadership team with additional resources to continue the focus on driving long-term sporting success. This additional capital is part of the Lewis family’s ongoing commitment to the Club and its future."

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• 'The Lewis family are also ambitious for the future'

  On the cash injection, non-executive chairman Peter Charrington said: "As I stated a few weeks ago, our focus is on stability and empowering the management team to deliver on the Club’s ambitions. I know the Lewis family are also ambitious for the future.

  "Today’s capital commitment reflects that ambition and I would like to thank them for their ongoing support. We will continue to do all we can to ensure that Vinai and his team are supported in the best way possible to take this Club forward."

  The injection comes after a third prospective buyer confirmed no intention to bid for the Premier League side. An American consortium led by former DJ Brooklyn Earick had previously made an informal expression of interest to buy Tottenham, which was "unequivocally rejected" by the Spurs board.

  Spurs currently sit third in the Premier League, two points behind rivals Arsenal, after their 2-1 win over Leeds prior to the international break. Spurs return to domestic duties as they welcome Aston Villa next weekend.

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has been calling a highly-rated player in the build up to deadline day as he looks to tempt him with a Stamford Bridge move, according to an intriguing new report.

The west Londoners are prioritising a new attacker as we fast approach this year’s summer transfer cut-off, and they’ve held extensive talks for two stars in particular.

Man United winger Alejandro Garnacho is clamoring for a move to Chelsea, having already told friends that he’ll be joining Maresca’s side (talkSPORT), and personal terms are believed to be fully agreed.

Meanwhile, RB Leipzig playmaker Xavi Simons has also agreed terms with Chelsea, but the Bundesliga side and Blues are yet to shake hands on a club-to-club deal, as is also the case with Garnacho.

If Maresca had to choose one or the other, he’d select Garnacho, as his priority is a winger, but deals for either one of the pair still centre around Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku finding new clubs.

It isn’t simply a case of Simons or Garnacho, either, as credible reports now claim that Chelsea have reached out and contacted the representatives of Barcelona star Fermin Lopez (David Ornstein).

Lopez has become a star at the Camp Nou since Hansi Flick’s arrival last year, scoring eight goals and bagging 10 assists in 46 total appearances last year as Barça went on to clinch a domestic treble.

The Spaniard has emerged as an alternative to Simons if they cannot get a deal done for him, even if the Leipzig ace is still their priority as things stand, although this could change pretty quickly (Simon Phillips).

Chelsea ready to nearly triple Fermin Lopez's salary as Enzo Maresca calls him

According to Spanish news outlet Sport, and journalist Jordi Gil, Chelsea are ready to nearly triple Lopez’s current salary if they pivot towards the 21-year-old as their top playmaker target.

Lopez earns around £99,000-per-week in Catelonia right now, but Maresca’s side would hand him a contract of around £250,000-per-week in west London – which comes as surprising, given Chelsea aren’t known to shatter their wage structure on players.

What’s more, Maresca is believed to be personally calling Lopez over a move to Chelsea, so there is serious intent from the tactician to land him, not to mention admiration.

All of this means Lopez is starting to reconsider his future after previously stating he would remain at Barca, and Chelsea are apparently prepared to offer Flick’s side around £50 million for his services.

However, they’re still some way off the mark, as the La Liga champions are demanding £60 million.

Celtic find themselves in a race against time to land a new striker, though they have now made an approach to bring in a forward on the books at a Premier League club.

Celtic fail in bid to land Anderlecht striker Kasper Dolberg

Despite making him their top target, Celtic look to have missed out on a deal for Anderlecht striker Kasper Dolberg, who is primed to complete a move to Anderlecht before the close of play.

Taking to social media platform X, Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph reported that the Denmark international now has his set on a move to his former club after the Dutch giants sought assurances over his willingness to snub alternative interest.

He stated: “UPDATE: Ajax are now pressing ahead with their hijack of Kasper Dolberg’s move to Celtic after seeking assurances from the player that he would prefer a return to his old club. #AFCAjax now back in talks with Anderlecht over a permanet deal. This could leave Celtic scrambling.”

Elsewhere, the Bhoys have put forward a loan for Crystal Palace winger Jesurun Rak-Sayki, albeit he could end up at either Rangers, Lyon, and Leicester City, who are also keen on landing the England Under-21 international.

The timing of whether Celtic manage to land a striker or not is critical, given Irishman Adam Idah is set for a move to Swansea after completing his medical, though they have held fire on relinquishing his services until a replacement is found.

Birmingham hold talks to sign "valuable" £3m ace; waiting on "green-light"

This is exactly what Chris Davies could be after.

ByHenry Jackson Sep 1, 2025

Truthfully, the late part of the window for supporters has failed to deliver in terms of excitement, but that could be about to change as they hone in on a new centre-forward.

Celtic make loan approach to sign Chelsea's David Datro Fofana

According to Sky Sports reporter Joseph on X, who was mentioned earlier, Celtic have made a loan approach to try and sign Chelsea striker David Datro Fofana before tonight’s deadline.

Intriguingly, his colleague Ron Walker eluded to the fact that is ‘looks like’ the Bhoys may land his services despite suggesting that Bristol City were in the mix, potentially suggesting that a deal is further down the line than initially thought.

Despite joining Chelsea for £10.3 million in 2022, Fofana has made only four appearances for the Premier League giants and spent time out on loan at Goztepe last term, scoring twice in nine appearances before sustaining a knee injury.

Adding Union Berlin and Burnley to his other loans, the Ivory Coast international, dubbed “aggressive” by Vincent Kompany, has never really settled since joining the Blues from Molde, where he burst on to the scene after netting 24 times in 65 outings.

Celtic appear willing to offer him an olive branch at a late stage, creating a scenario where both parties benefit while Chelsea move another player off their books.

Tottenham Hotspur’s Champions League return could not have been scripted better, with Lucas Bergvall delivering a standout debut under the lights and earning plaudits from legends of the game. Ange Postecoglou’s groundwork from last season is now paying dividends, with the teenager stepping up on Europe’s biggest stage under new boss Thomas Frank.

• AFP
  

  Bergvall helps Spurs to UCL win on debut

  Bergvall was handed his first Champions League start by Frank in Tottenham’s 1-0 win over Villarreal. The teenager made an immediate impact, forcing an early own goal from goalkeeper Luiz Junior. Spurs rode that breakthrough to secure three points in their opening league phase match.

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• Getty Images Sport
  

  Bergvall's performance holds Postecoglou's handprint

  While Frank is the man steering Spurs now, much of the credit for Bergvall’s maturity is being directed towards Postecoglou. The Australian gave Bergvall crucial minutes last season, helping him adapt to Premier League demands. That faith laid the foundation for Tuesday’s dream debut, with Bergvall himself saying: “A dream come true. First Champions League game, at home in front of you and a win. Something I've dreamed of since I was a kid.”

  Additionally, he also said on Tottenham's official channels: “Yeah, [playing in the Champions League] has been a dream since I was a young kid to play here and in front of the supporters at home, and a win could not be better.”

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Ronney praises 'fantastic' Bergvall

  Wayne Rooney was among those to heap praise on the Swedish midfielder after his performance. The Manchester United legend told Amazon Prime Video: "Sometimes you forget how young he is because he played a lot of games last season, and the maturity with which he plays is fantastic."

  He continued: "So he shows different sides to his game this season, last season he played a bit deeper, and to play as a number ten is not easy, it's not easy to get on the ball and be in the right positions, but I thought today he showed the different side to his game, which will only improve him in the future."

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• Bergvall the shining star for Spurs' future

  Tottenham will look to build momentum from their winning start as they continue their Champions League journey. Frank will hope Bergvall’s form adds creativity to his squad while keeping him grounded in a long season. With the foundation laid by Postecoglou and the guidance of Frank, Spurs may finally have a star ready to shine on Europe’s grand stage.

Newcastle United find themselves racing to sign a centre-forward and could now be set to up the ante for a star with proven Premier League experience, according to a report.

Newcastle United continue search for new strikers

Unfortunately, Manchester United have won the race to sign RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko after a battle with the Magpies for his signature that has ended in a £74 million move to Old Trafford, subject to medical checks.

David Ornstein confirmed that Sesko won’t be joining Newcastle, but the reporter has shared some good news, revealing that Porto’s Samu Aghehowa is high on the Magpies’ radar, while Keith Downie reports that Brentford’s Yoane Wissa could be on his way to Tyneside for a fee of around £35m.

Speculation over Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson’s departure to West Ham United has left a couple of voids to be filled in the North East, and Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson could also head to Newcastle as his career trajectory takes another turn. Either way, cards may start to fall once Isak’s future is resolved amid heavy interest from Liverpool.

Related Newcastle open talks to sign "fantastic" midfielder who's keen on SJP move

Eddie Howe has already approved…

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Plenty of options are available to Howe with the window now coming into it’s final stretch and he may now have turned his attention to another forward who is creeping up the estimations of the Geordies’ recruitment team at St James’ Park.

Newcastle United want to sign striker loved by Alan Shearer

According to Craig Hope of The Daily Mail, Newcastle have Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Jorgen Strand Larsen near the top of their shortlist as they search for a new striker.

Despite only making his move to Molineux permanent this summer for £23 million, the Magpies are impressed by his character and exploits last term for the Old Gold in the Premier League.

Jorgen Strand Larsen’s record for Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2024/25 – all competitions

Appearances

38

Goals

14

Assists

5

Newcastle legend Alan Shearer is an admirer of Strand Larsen and previously said about his performance against Ipswich Town back in April: “He was a nuisance. His hold-up play was excellent and I thought his touch and his control were superb.”

Indeed, the Wolves star’s closest statistical match is none other than Chris Wood, as per FBRef, due to both players outperforming their expected goals and dominating aerial duels. The Denmark international directed 34 of his 54 shots taken on target in the Premier League last term and is now creeping up their list of potential options after missing out on a deal for Sesko.

Previous talk of a price-tag sitting at £65 million has been dismissed, so it remains to be seen if Newcastle can advance into pole position to bring the talented striker to St James’ Park before the end of the window.

The range of viable investors in the Hundred teams is “way broader and bigger” than anticipated ahead of Friday’s first-round deadline for bids. That is according to the ECB’s senior leadership team, who defended the Hundred’s projected valuations of overseas broadcast rights on Wednesday by insisting: “We are confident in our product”.The ECB sent investment prospectuses to around 100 interested parties last month, who were set a deadline of October 18 to register their initial interest in buying a stake in one of the eight Hundred teams. The teams are currently owned by the ECB but will become franchises run as joint-ventures with host counties (or the MCC) once the sale process is complete.The Hundred’s overseas broadcast rights are currently valued at around £2 million per year. Financial projections in the prospectuses distributed by Deloitte and the Raine Group – who are running the sales process – involve a jump to £33 million by 2030, with a year-on-year growth rate of 42%.One prospective investor, who has since withdrawn from the sales process, told ESPNcricinfo that those figures “make no sense” and had not been fully explained. “It seems like they first thought of a valuation then made up the numbers to justify it – things like the sudden and exponential growth in broadcast revenue from India and North America,” they said.Richard Gould and Richard Thompson, the ECB’s chief executive and chair respectively, are in Multan this week during England’s second Test against Pakistan, ahead of the first-round deadline. They said the board has fielded interest from a “full gamut” of potential investors and defended the projected increase in revenue from Indian broadcast rights.Related

• Lancashire want IPL link for Manchester Originals

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• ECB plans huge wage hikes, increase in overseas player limit in the Hundred

• Lalit Modi pours scorn on 'overambitious' Hundred in leaked financial projections

• Equity sale in the Hundred could be delayed beyond 2025 – Vikram Banerjee

“We are not making an assumption that India’s men’s players will be released, because that has not been what has happened,” Gould said. “We are confident in our product, in terms of the window we occupy and the players we’ve got available. There are loads of T20 and short-format franchise competitions out there at the moment, and I don’t think they are all going to last, in truth.”Gould said that “about 100 or so” interested parties had requested access to the ECB’s “data room”, including “a lot of Indian interest” with the majority of owners of IPL and WPL franchises understood to be involved in the process. He said there has also been interest “from America, from other sports and investment houses”.He said: “We’re getting towards the end of stage one this week… at the moment, they can express an interest in all eight clubs. We’ll have a better indication over the next week or two. Thereafter, we’ll spend a month or so going through those. At the end of that process, they will be able to go and meet the county clubs and see where their relationships work best.”During that period they can have an interest in up to four teams. When we get to the crunch time, which is the next phase, they can only put their name in for two teams, and they can only win one. Clearly, we want to maximise the value, because the value the ECB holds is on behalf of the game.”Gould said there were “a few tyre-kickers” among the parties to initially register their interest, but Thompson insisted that the ECB had outstripped expectations overall. “Raine originally said they thought there’d be three to four bidders per team,” he said. “The investment base is way broader and bigger than they expected.”Vikram Banerjee, the ECB’s director of business operations, said last month that the sale process could be delayed beyond next year if the right bids do not come in. Thompson suggested that the 2025 season could be a “hybrid” model, with some teams still owned by ECB and others by private investors.”What we don’t want is to just feel bounced into selling all of them and thinking, ‘We could have got a lot more if we’d held back because that particular team wasn’t ready to go,'” he said. “The worst thing we could do would be to undersell the game and look back thinking, ‘We let some of these franchises go at prices that weren’t full market value.'”