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Aston Villa paid Southampton £30m for striker Danny Ings, according to reliable reporter Gregg Evans.

And a number of Villa supporters have been sharing their negative thoughts at the figure on social media.

The 29-year-old was announced as a Villa player on Wednesday evening out of nowhere, penning a three-year deal at Villa Park.

Both Sky Sports and BBC believed a deal cost in the region of £25m, however, Evans, who writes for The Athletic, claimed a move cost Villa £30m.

Ings became Villa’s fourth summer signing after moves for Emiliano Buendia, Ashley Young and Leon Bailey and bolsters Dean Smith’s ranks going forward with Jack Grealish now a Manchester City player.

Villa fans react

Well-known Villa page @villareport shared Evans’ claim on Ings on Twitter on Wednesday evening.

This is what these Villa supporters had to say in reply to the post, with one describing a fee as ’embarrassing’ with a number of fans not exactly thrilled at the fee.

“i’m baffled but fair play”Credit: @JacobHaallam”That’s awful business”Credit: @issaAVFC”Embarrassing fee for a back up striker. Unless Ollie is being pushed out left !! Spending the Grealish money wisely for a 29-year-old injury prone second striker”Credit: @roberton_sj”I don’t like this at all.”Credit: @lewjt11″Wow. 30 mil for a 29-year-old. No wonder saints said yes and he was here in a flash.”Credit: @723OJ”That’s shocking we’ve been robbed that’s way over priced, he had less than a year on his contract and he injury prone”Credit: @KingFlipper_

In other news: ‘I’ve heard’ – Dharmesh Sheth shares Todd Cantwell to Aston Villa transfer update on Sky Sports. 

West Ham United face losing out on one of their mooted summer transfer targets…

What’s the word?

Back in May, Football League World revealed that the Irons were among several Premier League clubs stepping up interest in Bournemouth star Arnaut Danjuma, but now it appears that they are lagging behind in the race to secure him.

According to The Sun, La Liga outfit Villarreal are the front-runners to sign the 24-year-old, despite interest from the English top flight.

It’s thought that Unai Emery’s Yellow Submarines had a £13m bid rejected earlier in the month, with the Cherries remaining firm over their £35m asking price, although they are open to a sale for the right amount.

Time to act

If the Hammers can get back in the battle to land Danjuma’s signature, then David Moyes could well unearth his next Jarrod Bowen.

The Dutchman excelled in the Championship as Bournemouth’s attempts to seal an instant return to the big time fell in the play-offs. As per Transfermarkt, the 24-year-old provided 17 goals and seven assists on their way to that promotion near miss.

He appears to be a player capable of the spectacular and is able to terrify defences with his rapid pace and ability to cut inside.

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This was something to which former Cherries boss Jonathan Woodgate alluded during that run-in as he told reporters, via the Bournemouth Echo: “He seems in a good place. He’s confident. He’s working really, really hard for the team now, which I think is important,.”

Woodgate later added: “Sometimes when games are 0-0 and it’s tough and it’s really tight in games, that’s when you rely on people like Arnie, Junior (Stanislas), Dominic Solanke to produce moments of magic. All three can do that.”

Indeed, Danjuma’s 1.8 dribbles per game in 2020/21 was only surpassed by the hardly-seen Arthur Masuaku (2.4) at West Ham, whilst he attempted more shots (2.1) per game than Bowen and Said Benrahma.

Moyes hit the jackpot with his bold gamble on the former Hull ace, with Bowen registering 19 goal contributions in 53 appearances for the Irons, and he could well repeat such exploits with a move for the £13.5m-rated dynamo, although it’s now on the Scotsman to urge GSB to act, with Villarreal leading the charge for the 24-year-old’s signaure.

AND in other news, Moyes must urge West Ham swoop for “full-blooded” 22-goal beast who stunned Euro 2020…

Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Glasgow Rangers target Alhassan Yusuf is about to make a move to Royal Antwerp in Belgium.

The Lowdown: Gers target Yusuf

The Gers have been linked with a move for Yusuf (SCORENigeria via The Daily Record), who currently plays in Sweden for IFK Goteborg.

He has made 76 appearances for his current club, racking up two goals and nine assists during that time (Transfermarkt).

However, the Gers have not made a concrete move for him and have already signed another midfielder in John Lundstram (rangers.co.uk), and there has now been an update on Yusuf’s future.

The Latest: Yusuf close to Royal Antwerp

Romano has revealed that the 20-year-old is closing in on a move to Belgian outfit Royal Antwerp (via Voetbal Primeur).

The journalist added that IFK Goteborg will receive €1.5m (£1.3m) from his sale.

The Verdict: Other targets emerged

Steven Gerrard and co will naturally be disappointed to miss out on one of their summer targets. However, it appears that no bid was made his services, so perhaps they weren’t hugely keen on the 20-year-old.

The Gers have recently signed a midfielder in Lundstram on a free transfer. Aged 27 and with plenty of Premier League experience under his belt, he is more of a finished product, whereas the much younger Yusuf will no doubt still need to develop.

In other news, Rangers have a funding gap which needs to be filled.

According to Fichajes, Southampton are interested in signing Real Sociedad winger Adnan Januzaj this summer.

The Lowdown: Saints prepare for new season

The Saints had a mixed season last time out, reaching the FA Cup semi-finals but also finishing in 15th place in the table despite briefly going top in November.

As such, Ralph Hasenhuttl is likely to target a number of new signings this summer, and one former Manchester United man is said to be on his radar.

The Latest: Saints eye Januzaj

It has been reported that Southampton are interested in capturing the services of Januzaj, who currently plays in Spain for Real Sociedad but has been touted for an exit from the club.

Brighton are also said to be in pursuit of the 26-year-old winger, according to Fichajes.

The Verdict: Still plenty to give

Many football fans will remember when the Belgium international burst onto the scene as a teenager in 2013 – he scored four goals and provided four assists in the Premier League in his first full campaign at Manchester United (Transfermarkt). He was even compared to Old Trafford legend Wayne Rooney by then-Red Devils manager David Moyes (Sky Sports).

However, he has been unable to live up to those initial expectations, managing just 24 goals throughout his professional career. Still, he has played in many of Europe’s top leagues and has won 13 caps for a Belgium side ranked first in the world, and he could still bring plenty of attacking endeavour to the Saints.

Nimble with the ball at his feet, Januzaj averaged 1.7 dribbles per game last season – for context, only Stuart Armstrong (2.1) could beat that within Southampton’s squad.

For the right price, it could be a good deal for Hasenhuttl and co to bring in the former Manchester United talent, especially if he is open to leaving Real Sociedad.

In other news, many Southampton fans have reacted to news on this in-form striker.

Graeme Hick, that great enigma of English cricket, has struck again. This time, it was not with a sparkling century for Worcestershire to remind the selectors of his prodigious talent. Batting fluently at Taunton, Hick mowed a drive which broke Marcus Tresothick’s thumb, probably ruling the England star out for the rest of the season.This is a massive blow for England’s immediate future. Trescothick, bundled into international cricket thanks to injuries in 1999, has never looked back. It was not so long ago that Somerset were trying to turn him into an all-rounder, but the left-hander is now one of the game’s hottest properties.In the scheme of things, Trescothick will probably be back in the side for the Ashes, and continue his excellent career. Four missed Test matches won’t be vital and, when Nasser Hussain eventually retires, he looks favourite to become the next England captain.This summer however, Trescothick’s broken thumb rather throws the cat amongst the pigeons. While Hick was still batting at Taunton, it appeared that Trescothick would only miss the first Test. By the time Jamie Cox and Peter Bowler got to the crease for Somerset, it was clear that the injury was much more serious.Where now then, for Hussain’s men? If Trescothick was out for only one game,Mark Butcher could move up the order, and John Crawley to number three. Withsuch a prolonged absence, and given that Butcher has achieved so much at three, the selectors may look at fresh faces.Top of the list must be Sussex’s Richard Montgomerie and Kent’s David Fulton. Both had dream seasons in 2001 and, though such summers are not easily repeated, they remain in good form. Both are good, solid county players. Given that a Trescothick recovery ensures an almost automatic recall, it may be better to give seasoned pros a chance.If England look to youth, and this is probably unlikely, Ian Bell stands out. This unflustered, technically correct right-hander is going to play Test cricket. But his inclusion in this situation would however move Butcher up the order, which is best avoided.An alternative selection could conceivably see Robert Key thrust into the side. The 23-year-old Academy graduate is highly thought of, hits the ball hard and could be risked to replicate Trescothick’s role. Doubts will be raised about whether Key is ready for international cricket. There is only one way to find out.The most probable outcome is the recall of John Crawley or Mark Ramprakash. Such a move would attract criticism, though Crawley is in good form and Ramprakash is scoring double-hundreds for fun and hitting centuries for breakfast. Neither would be the bravest selection, but either Crawley or Ramprakash is the most sensible.Some critics will wonder what Trescothick was doing playing for Somerset. Those who suggest that England players should only play for England must realise that cricketers need cricket, cricket needs fans, and fans need entertainment. England players provide this, and a one-day game in mid-season should hardly be a high-risk exercise.Freak accidents happen, and of three broken bones in the England set-up this summer, both James Kirtley and Jamie Foster suffered their injuries in the nets. If England cricketers are to be banned from playing for their counties, we might as well ban training.

Leicester City have moved on from Celtic striker Odsonne Edouard after they failed to agree on a fee with the Hoops for the Frenchman.

The Lowdown: Edouard told friends he was joining Leicester

It seemed as if the 23-year-old was destined to reunite with former Hoops boss Brendan Rodgers at the King Power Stadium this summer.

Reports last month suggested the Foxes were closing in on Edouard, with the player himself even telling friends he would be signing for the FA Cup winners after agreeing on personal terms.

However, it seems as if a deal is now off following reliable reporter Fabrizio Romano’s Thursday update.

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The Latest: Romano’s post

Transfer expert Romano shared the latest on the Foxes’ summer plans on Twitter.

He claimed they are now working on signing Patson Daka from RB Salzburg and not Edouard after failing to reach an agreement with Celtic.

“To be clear. Leicester are working to complete Patson Daka deal after official bid made to Salzburg – NOT Edouard, they’ve been negotiating for the Celtic striker but no agreement.”

The Verdict: Postecoglou to be delighted?

You’d expect new Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou could be delighted at this update.

He may have been resigned to losing the forward when in discussions with the Hoops hierarchy on taking the job, but it now seems as if he could well stay at Parkhead with a move to Leicester now off the cards.

Of course, other clubs could still come swooping in, but the striker seemingly had his heart set on moving to the Midlands, so perhaps he can now be convinced Glasgow is better than any old alternative that pops up.

Edouard scored 22 goals in all competitions last season but has just 12 months left on his Celtic contract, so should his situation remain the same going into 2022, the Hoops could end up losing the player for nothing.

It’s a risky spot Celtic now find themselves in, but Postecoglou will be buzzing if he has the Frenchman available for selection going into the 2021/22 campaign.

In other news: Forrest, McGregor and Turnbull Celtic updates emerge, find out more here. 

تحدث وائل جمعة مدير منتخب مصر السابق عن الروح المميزة التي يتحلى بها لاعبو الفراعنة خلال مشاركتهم في المباريات، موضحًا أنه تعرض للظلم خلال فترة عمله في الأهلي.

وكان وائل جمعة قد تولى منصب مدير الكرة في الأهلي عقب اعتزاله اللعب في عام 2014، إلا أنه لم يستمر لفترة طويلة.  

وقال وائل جمعة خلال تصريحاته لبرنامج “في الدقيقة” عبر موقع الفيديوهات “يوتيوب”: “لا أحب المقارنة بين الجيل الحالي والسابق، كل فترة لها ظروفها الخاصة التي تساعد على التألق، الروح عند المصريين واحدة، لكن الظروف مختلفة”.

وتابع: “لعبت في وقت كانت الظروف مهيأة، كانت الجماهير تحضر بـ100 ألف في الاستاد، والجيل الحالي عندما وضع تحت ضغط وصل لنهائي أمم إفريقيا”.

وأكمل: “اللاعبون الحاليون عندهم روح كبيرة، هل لم ير أحد روح الشناوي وأبو جبل وفتوح وأكرم توفيق؟، ولدينا مقاتلين في وسط الملعب مثل حمدي فتحي والنني”.

طالع.. وائل جمعة يشكر لاعبي منتخب مصر: أظهرتم “رجولة وجدعنة”

وأضاف: “كيروش أحد أفضل المدربين الذين تعاملت معهم، يتمتع بجوانب عديدة فنية وسلوكية وتربوية، وهذه الأمور لم تتوافر جميعها في المدربين السابقين للمنتخب المصري، كان ينقل الإحساس بالوطنية، وحدثت مواقف بيني وبينه بشأن الوطنية والشعور بالبلد، المدرب البرتغالي واحد من المدربين الذين غيروا تفكيري تمامًا، وهو أفضل من كوبر بالتأكيد”.

واستكمل: “الزمالك دائمًا هو الفريق الثاني في مصر وينافس الأهلي على الألقاب، والناس تنتظر مباراة القمة دائمًا، لكني لم أقل أن الأبيض ليس منافسًا للمارد الأحمر، لكن بالتأكيد التفوق بالأرقام لصالح القلعة الحمراء”.

وبسؤاله، هل ظُلمت في عملك كمدير للكرة بالنادي الأهلي؟، أجاب: “نعم، ظُلمت في عدم المساندة، ولم يقف بجانبي أحد من الإدارة التي أمثلها، الإدارة وقفت مع اللاعبين ضدي، توليت المسؤولية سنة واحدة، وحدث خلاف مع اللاعبين ورحلت عن النادي”.

واستكمل: “كيروش كان يستمع لمعاونيه، كل شخص عنده وجهة نظر كان يقولها والقرار يعود له، ما يتردد عكس ذلك غير صحيح، هو يستمع لجميع الآراء، وأوقات أمور لا يكون عنده دراية بها يسأل فيها المساعدين”.

Manchester City are reportedly tracking Villareal defender Pau Torres and if he joins this summer, it could be the end for Aymeric Laporte in Pep Guardiola’s side.

According to the Daily Express, Manchester United are heavily interested in signing the Spain international this summer but face competition from City, who are also tracking the 24-year-old.

The centre-back has been a key player for Unai Emery’s side this season and has been a significant factor in their run to the Europa League final, where they will meet Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side later this week.

The £45m-rated defender has made 33 appearances in La Liga, contributing two goals and two assists, which has helped him average a solid 6.76 rating from WhoScored.

His performances this season have earned him high praise from manager Emery, who claimed that:

“Pau Torres is an amazing player – I think he’s top.

“I’ve been a coach in Sevilla, PSG, Arsenal and I’ve never seen a centre back like Pau Torres.

“I think he’s going to play at the highest level, he’s playing now in the national team but he can play in the top teams in Europe very soon.”

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If the young defender were to join Manchester City rather than their local rivals this summer, he would add some further depth in a position where Guardiola can already boast a number of top-quality players, including Ruben Dias, John Stones, Laporte and Nathan Ake.

Given that Stones and Dias have been the go-to partnership for much of the season, whilst Ake only joined last summer from Bournemouth, Laporte would surely be the likeliest to leave if Torres were to arrive this summer.

The former Athletic Bilbao defender has lost his regular starting spot in Guardiola’s side and hinted earlier in the season that he may need to depart in order for regular first-team football, whilst Real Madrid have also been credited with an interest.

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Therefore, a summer exit may already be on the cards for Laporte but if Torres were to arrive, then it may well be the final nail in the coffin for his time at City, but that should not put the champions off making a move for Torres as he’d be a quality addition.

And, in other news… Forget Kane: Man City should swoop for “ice cold” beast likened to Lewandowski

Former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is ‘willing to talk’ to Everton about the vacant managerial post at Goodison Park, according to Patrick Boyland and Greg O’Keeffe.

The lowdown

Everton are looking to secure a new manager ahead of the summer transfer window after Carlo Ancelotti left to return to Real Madrid last week.

Benitez has been out of work since January after leaving Chinese Super League club Dalian Yifang. The Spaniard led Liverpool to the Champions League and UEFA Super Cup in 2005, as well as the FA Cup a year later.

Benitez is a decorated coach, having also won a pair of La Liga titles at Valencia early in the millennium and a Europa League crown with Chelsea, with the 61-year-old having 12 trophies to his name during his career in management.

The latest

It seems as if Benitez would entertain interest from Everton despite his association with Liverpool. However, Boyland and O’Keeffe noted for The Athletic that those links with the Anfield club continue to ‘make him a tough sell’ to some members of the board.

Meanwhile, there is said to be a willingness to bring back current Belgium boss Roberto Martinez in some quarters. Another former manager in David Moyes has also been considered, but there are ‘question marks’ over whether he would consider leaving Europa League-bound West Ham United and returning to Everton.

The Scot was ‘swiftly un-offered’ the job in 2019 when the club were presented with the opportunity to hire Ancelotti instead.

The verdict

Benitez is one of the most successful managers of his generation but you’d never want a manager to take a job under an immediate cloud, as Everton fans would probably be very quick to turn on him during a tricky run of form given his previous alliances with Liverpool.

It’s a good sign that a figure of his calibre is open to negotiations, but the Toffees hierarchy should look for a separate project given how fragile this one could be.

In other news, Eddie Howe’s chances of taking the job have also been rated. 

Manchester City fans are desperate for Aymeric Laporte to stay at the club after his impressive performance for Spain against Portugal on Friday night.

City signed Laporte from Athletic Bilbao for £57m in 2018 (BBC), and he has proven to be a good signing for the club. During the 2018/19 campaign, he was particularly important, making 35 appearances in the Premier League (Transfermarkt) as the Citizens won the league by one point ahead of Liverpool (footballdatabase.com).

Last term, he did not play as big of a role, and therefore has been linked with a move away from the Etihad Stadium (mundodeportivo.com).

Born in France, £40.5m-valued Laporte (Transfermarkt) has decided to play for Spain after continually been overlooked by Didier Deschamps. On Friday, he made his debut for La Roja, and he helped his side keep a clean sheet, with one fan hailing his performance as a ‘masterclass’.

The City fans were delighted with his display, and they urged him to stay at the club as a result. They took to social media platform Twitter to share their thoughts.

Let’s see what the fans had to say about Laporte below

“Great game aymeric, hope u stay and prove evryone wrong in our team”

Credit: @mcityfanpranesh

“Laporte masterclass on international debut… we can’t let him leave”

Credit: @NoContextSammm

“He needs to start with Dias next season”

Credit: @McfcNathan0

“mannn we cant let laporte go.”

Credit: @ManchesterBleu

“hope he stays he’s better than stones”

Credit: @MedAmineKarray

“Can’t let him go, need to get a run of games under his belt with Dias”

Credit: @FletchMcfc

In other news, Man City fans want to sign this Serie A midfielder this summer.