Barcelona are reportedly planning a fresh approach for “wonderful” Liverpool star Luis Diaz, but the press in Spain believe he has agreed terms elsewhere.
Players who could leave Liverpool this summer
A busy summer transfer at Anfield has seen Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez join the Reds, but the likes of Caoimhin Kelleher, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jarell Quansah have already departed, and a host of other names have been linked with exits before next season gets underway.
Jarell Quansah for Liverpool
Luis Diaz has continually been mentioned as an option for Barcelona, with his father even admitting that it would be a “dream” move for his son.
Elsewhere, Harvey Elliott’s future looks likely to lie away from Liverpool, and there are also rumours suggesting Andy Robertson and Darwin Nunez could move on.
Luis Diaz has agreed terms with Bayern Munich
According to a new update from Fabrizio Romano on X, Barcelona are now planning to make a “new approach” for Liverpool ace Diaz in the near future, with Spanish journalist Fernando Polo confirming the player is keen on the move.
However, Polo has since added a new twist, revealing sources in Germany believe Diaz has verbally agreed personal terms with Bayern Munich. The Germans lost Jamal Musiala to a serious injury over the weekend, and Polo reports if they bid for Diaz it is with the Colombian’s green light.
Luis Diaz
Liverpool’s stance on Diaz seemingly remains clear, with the Premier League champions not entertaining any offers.
While the Colombian may not be an absolutely world-class footballer, he is still an elite attacking player, scoring 17 goals for the Reds last season and flourishing as both a winger and a centre forward, being lauded by former midfielder Danny Murphy.
“I’ve picked out Diaz because I think he’s gone under the radar a little bit with all the plaudits a lot of the players are getting. He’s got a wonderful work ethic and attitude to the game wherever he’s asked to play.”
Liverpool in lead to sign £35m star who loves Arne Slot, he's keen on move
The Reds could land themselves a talent this summer.
BySean Markus Clifford Jul 6, 2025
Admittedly, a monstrous bid for the £55,000-a-week Diaz could make Liverpool think again, considering he is 28 now, but only an extortionate amount of money should lead to them accepting an offer this summer.
Tottenham have been told one key condition to sign a player who’s been identified by manager Thomas Frank as a summer target, according to a new report.
£43m star "clear" he wants to join Tottenham in talks with club chairman
He’s expressed his desire to seal a Spurs switch.
3 ByEmilio Galantini Jul 15, 2025
Spurs are fresh off the back of their first pre-season game against Reading, with new signing Mohammed Kudus enjoying an impressive cameo on Saturday as the Lilywhites ran out 2-0 winners against the League One side.
Goals from Will Lankshear and new arrival Luka Vuskovic secured Frank the perfect start to his new managerial chapter, with the Dane getting a first look at his star-studded squad.
Son Heung-min
7.00
James Maddison
6.98
Pedro Porro
6.95
Dominic Solanke
6.84
Dejan Kulusevski
6.83
via WhoScored
He could yet see more illustrious names added to it, as Tottenham maintain their pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White despite Nottingham Forest’s threat of legal action. Fabrizio Romano confirms that sealing a deal for Gibbs-White is their priority right now, speaking via his YouTube channel, but that doesn’t mean Daniel Levy won’t have other plates spinning in the background.
Yves Bissouma has been regularly linked with a move away from north London before deadline day on September 1, and José Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe are believed to be prime contenders for the Mali international (Yağız Sabuncuoğlu).
With Spurs competing in the Champions League next season, Frank will need a ready-made replacement for Bissouma, considering the hot and cold midfielder played 28 games for them in the Premier League alone last term.
According to recent reports, Bayern Munich ace and former Fulham favourite Joao Palhinha is among the targets on Tottenham’s shortlist to potentially step into Bissouma’s shoes for 2025/2026.
Bayern Munich's Joao Palhinha in action against Bayer Leverksen.
The Portugal international finally sealed what was a long-awaited move to Bavaria last summer, signing for around £47 million, but his debut season at the Allianz Arena was marred by injury struggles, suspensions, illness and a subsequent lack of game time under Vincent Kompany.
As a result, reports suggest the 30-year-old could call time on his stay in the Bundesliga already, and Spurs have been told the requirements to seal a deal.
Tottenham told Joao Palhinha condition after opening Bayern Munich talks
According to GiveMeSport, Tottenham have held club-to-club discussions with Bayern over Palhinha, and Kompany’s side are adamant that Levy will only be able to sign him on a permanent deal.
Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha.
Any offers for a loan will not be accepted as Bayern attempt to get Palhinha’s £166,000-per-week wages off the books for good, but Frank has personally identified the player as a target, so there appears to be a real willingness from Spurs to move for him.
Bayern are said to have made it clear that Tottenham will need to table a “big-money” bid for Palhinha if they stand a chance of signing him this summer, but this report doesn’t disclose the exact amount they’d be looking for.
In any case, if Spurs decide to press forward, there is reason to believe he would thrive under Frank.
Palhinha was famed for his tackling and robustness in midfield during his spell at Craven Cottage, indicating why Spurs are so keen, with former teammate Tom Cairney even calling him a “breath of fresh air”.
“If you lose the ball, he smells blood,” Cairney said in a glowing endorsement.
“He’s probably one of the best I’ve ever seen off the ball, in terms of getting back, recovering and trying to win back the ball. He doesn’t just put pressure on them, he goes back to win the ball and does the tackle.
“It’s amazing to watch sometimes. I think the fans have taken to him. I think he’s been a breath of fresh air in the Premier League.”
Well, it feels like Liverpool and Newcastle United are primed for a summer of fencing over Alexander Isak. The Magpies striker is on FSG’s wishlist, even if there’s a prevailing sense that Eddie Howe’s side are going to ensure their talisman stays put.
In fact, PIF have priced the centre-forward at £200m and are reportedly prepared to make him the highest-paid player in Newcastle’s history.
It’s unlikely that this one will come to fruition for Arne Slot’s side, but the door isn’t completely closed on a stunning summer capture to complement the thick breadth of talent already being added to the Anfield ranks: Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz brought in from Bayer Leverkusen, Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez just announced too.
Isak was only outscored by that man Mohamed Salah in the Premier League last season, and is one of the most mobile and talented nines in Europe, even remarked to have been “the best striker in the world” last season by analyst Raj Chohan.
Of course, in order to get such a deal over the line, Liverpool would need to make sure they offload Darwin Nunez.
The latest on Darwin Nunez's future
25 years old, Nunez should be heading into his prime – and he might be, but not at Liverpool. It hasn’t worked out for the man who cost FSG some £64m to bring over from Benfica (his full £85m fee will not be reached).
Anticipated to be on the move for several months, things are starting to move, with Serie A champions Napoli locked in talks with Liverpool to bring the player – who has green-lit the potential transfer – over to Naples.
Despite his flaws, Nunez remains popular within the Liverpool fanbase and is endowed with the archetypal physical faculties of the modern high-level striker. But consistency has proved elusive across his three years on Merseyside, and now it’s time for change.
Nunez actually regressed under Slot’s management, scoring just seven times across 43 matches in 2024/25. Others rose to the occasion, stepped up, but, tactically, the Uruguayan was incongruent in the system, unable to process the calculated and measured nature of the coach’s vision.
Liverpool's DarwinNunezcelebrates after winning the Premier League
Liverpool might not sign Isak this summer, but it’s pretty clear that a new striker will be required to combat Nunez’s departure. Someone refined and respected as one of the continent’s sharpest marksmen.
And someone affordable at that.
Liverpool open talks for Nunez upgrade
According to Correio da Manha, Liverpool have entered the race for Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres, with Arsenal and Manchester United the notable competitors.
The 27-year-old has established himself as one of the most prolific strikers in Europe over the past few years and is believed to have a €80m (£68m) price tag, something Liverpool have confirmed after opening talks with the player’s representatives.
Said to be ‘heartbroken’ after Sporting president Frederico Varandas purportedly went back on a gentleman’s agreement to let him leave for a comparatively modest fee at the end of the 2024/25 season, Gyokeres has no intention of playing for the two-in-a-row Liga Portugal champions again.
Arsenal are the clear favourites in the race, but Liverpool are there, and they need a striker.
Why Liverpool should sign Viktor Gyokeres
Gyokeres is at the top of his game and has been profiled favourably by some of English football’s heaviest hitters. He might not have the same depth of talent as Isak, and indeed remains at this point unproven in the Premier League, but he’s a “ball-striking monster”, as per analyst Ben Mattinson and could prove a massive upgrade on Nunez.
Sporting CP's ViktorGyokereskisses the trophy as he celebrate after winning the Taca de Portugal
When you consider he’s available for a fraction of the cost that FSG would need to pay to bring Newcastle’s goal-getter over to Anfield, snapping him up before rivals steal ahead feels like a bit of a no-brainer.
In fact, Isak’s 27-goal haul across the campaign is dwarfed by that of his compatriot, who fired 54 goals home for his outfit across domestic and European endeavours, playing only 52 matches.
1.
Viktor Gyokeres
33
39
2.
Kylian Mbappe
34
31
3.
Mohamed Salah
38
29
4.
Robert Lewandowski
34
27
5.
Harry Kane
31
26
Think of a forward, the best you can. They didn’t outscore Gyokeres in any of Europe’s top ten divisions last season, with the Swede’s 39-goal haul an illustration of his prowess.
His clinical nature – something that Nunez is decidedly lacking in – has even illustrated a sharper ball-striking quality than Isak, and if that can be translated over to English football, Slot will be a happy man indeed.
A fair criticism would be that he plies his trade in Portugal, and Nunez wrapped up his final campaign in the country with 34 goals across 41 matches in all competitions, prompting Jurgen Klopp to spend prodigally on his signature.
Liverpool'sDarwinNunezreacts
However, Gyokeres is far more accomplished, technically, athletically and physically, having been described as a “very physical striker” and a “powerhouse” by analyst Ben Mattinson.
Moreover, he’s proven his ability to steal the show against the Premier League’s finest.
And if that’s not sold him, just take a look at FBref’s evaluation, Gyokeres’ data gleaned across a period of 12 months to paint a vivid picture of his completeness, not just a goalscorer.
Indeed, he ranked among the top 11% of positional peers across divisions similar to the Liga Portugal for assists, the top 1% for progressive carries and shot-creating actions, and the top 2% for successful take-ons per 90.
Nunez was much younger when he arrived in the Premier League, a raw prospect with the hint of something special. Conversely, Gyokeres is at the heart of his prime years, no doubt robust and confident enough to work well with Salah, Wirtz and the like.
Fans have always clung onto hope that their record forward would come good, but when Slot stated in February that he “can’t accept” his work rate after a string of disappointing performances, it became quite clear that his day was done.
Sporting CP's ViktorGyokerescelebrates scoring their third goal to complete his hat-trick
It’s time for change, and Gyokeres would be a fantastic addition given his relatively affordable price tag and the existing depth of creative quality in Slot’s squad.
He'd be Wirtz 2.0: Liverpool stand a "chance" of signing the "next Mbappe"
Liverpool believe they have a good chance to sign a star who would be a Florian Wirtz repeat.
Leeds United have a huge summer ahead of them if they are to secure Premier League survival next season after claiming promotion from the Championship this time around.
Daniel Farke’s side claimed the league title on goal difference on the final day after Manor Solomon’s late effort against Plymouth Argyle on the final day secured all three points.
The Whites finished top of the pile alongside Burnley, with both clubs ending the year on 100 points, highlighting the strength of the sides at the top of the division.
Such an achievement is just the beginning for the German, desperately needing to halt the current trend of sides suffering an immediate return to the second tier after promotion.
If he is to manage such a feat over the next year at Elland Road, he desperately needs to be backed in the market to hand him the best possible chance of success in Yorkshire.
An update on Leeds’ pursuit of new additions this summer
After securing promotion, it would be a surprise to no one to see Leeds linked with numerous players to help bolster the first team squad ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Ipswich Town winger Omari Hutchinson has been one name touted with a switch to join the Whites after the Tractor Boys suffered relegation from the Premier League in recent weeks.
Ipswich Town'sOmariHutchinsonreacts
However, he’s not alone on their shortlist, with Leicester City talisman Jamie Vardy the latest player linked with a switch to link up with Farke’s side, according to Football Insider.
The report claims that the Whites are plotting a move for the 38-year-old after announcing he would be departing the King Power at the end of the current season – subsequently making him a free agent.
It also states that his experience and record in England’s top-flight have made him a key target for the club as they look to once again establish themselves in the top-flight after a two-year absence.
Why Leeds’ summer target could be Farke’s own Beckford
Centre-forward Jermaine Beckford arrived at Elland Road from non-league outfit Wealdstone in 2006 after impressing enough to earn himself a switch to a then-Championship club.
He would have to bide his time in Yorkshire, even being sent on two loan spells, before making a huge impact in the first-team squad, cementing his place as the side’s main talisman.
Beckford went on to score 85 goals and provided 11 assists in 141 appearances in all competitions across three seasons – before getting his own Premier League move to Everton back in 2010.
However, he gave the supporters numerous moments to remember, none more so than the winning goal in the FA Cup clash with rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford.
They could land their next version of the forward with a summer move for Vardy, with the pair possessing a similar playstyle given their desire to run in behind and cause defenders an issue.
The duo are also similar in the fact that they both came through the non-league ladder before making an impact at their respective clubs – with Leeds desperately needing to take a gamble on the experienced frontman.
Vardy, who’s been labelled “sensational” by former boss Brendan Rodgers, has still managed to impress this campaign despite the Foxes suffering relegation, posting numerous impressive figures in key areas.
Jamie Vardy’s stats for Leicester in the PL (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)
Tally
Games played
33
Goals & assists
11
Shots taken
1.8
Pass accuracy
71%
Dribbles completed
47%
Aerials won
1.7
Aerial success rate
49%
Stats via FotMob
He’s registered eight goals and three assists in his 33 appearances, ending the season as their top scorer, still having the skillset to impress within the final third should he move to Yorkshire.
The former Fleetwood Town ace has also won 1.7 aerial duels won per 90, having the ability to offer Farke an experienced and all-round option at the top end of Farke’s side.
If they are to buck the current trend, new additions are desperately needed this summer, with funds needing to be spent to help the manager in his quest.
Vardy may not be everyone’s first choice when it comes to signings this summer, but he could prove to be an excellent squad option, offering depth and quality in their pursuit of making themselves an established top-flight outfit.
Leeds can seal stunning Solomon repeat by signing £30m Premier League star
Leeds United could look to replicate the success of their Manor Solomon deal by signing this attacking star.
With 46 to get from three overs, KKR seemed to have the match in their hands, but Jos Buttler had other ideas
ESPNcricinfo staff16-Apr-20241:39
Rapid fire review: Buttler’s knock among the greatest in a chase?
17.1Starc to Buttler, SIX runsFull and right into the swinging arc, Buttler clears his front leg and tees off down town to clear the ropes.Deep square comes in, point goes back17.2Starc to Buttler, 1 wideSlips this full delivery way outside off, left alone. Wide called17.2Starc to Buttler, no runCut away to deep point17.3Starc to Buttler, 1 run, OUTDrilled to long-off, calls for two but they were never going to make it. Boult was very slow in turning around, but in all fairness there was never a second. Boult continued to run nonetheless to get Buttler back on strike. Must say it was an excellent return on the bounce from Iyer to the bowler.17.4Starc to Buttler, no runAttempts a reverse scoop as Starc slants it full and across, misses.17.5Starc to Buttler, FOUR runsDug in short, Buttler takes on the short ball and manages to get enough bat on it to bisect square leg and short fine. Excellent anticipation from Buttler. This would’ve been signalled wide had he not got bat on it.17.6Starc to Buttler, 5 wideReaches out to scythe this behind square, the keeper has fumbled, this one bursts through his gloves and runs away to the boundary. Five wides wrapped in a gift.17.6Starc to Buttler, 1 runSensibly drives to deep cover point for a single. Royals need 28 off 12.18.1Harshit Rana to Buttler, SIX runsHeaved over deep midwicket! Deep into the stands. Buttler stays his ground and picks the bones out of this slower length ball.18.2Harshit Rana to Buttler, no runFull toss, belted straight to cover at the edge of the ring. Doesn’t take the run.18.3Harshit Rana to Buttler, FOUR runsHarshit Rana may have thought for a second he’d done well to go yorker-length. Buttler uses the depth of the crease to take it on the full and shovel it down the ground to beat long-on.18.4Harshit Rana to Buttler, SIX runsDug in short, Buttler pulls and clears a leaping Starc at deep square! Anticipated the short ball and was ready for it when it arrived. Hit it right off the middle. Flat hit to the bigger boundary.18.5Harshit Rana to Buttler, 2 runsMistimes a heave into the leg side, they come back for the second as Starc loses his balance as he gets to the ball at deep square.18.6Harshit Rana to Buttler, 1 runWorks it gently into the leg side as they take a quick single.KKR are an over short and so can have only four fielders, as against five, outside the ring.Varun Chakravarthy to bowl the final over. KKR need to defend eight.19.1Varun to Buttler, SIX runsDug into the pitch, Buttler goes back and thumps this over long-on. Also gets to his century as the Royals dug out applauds a sensational innings19.2Varun to Buttler, no runFlays this hard to long-off, refuses the single.3 off 419.3Varun to Buttler, no runWidth outside off, crashes it to deep point. Keeps strike, so it’s another dot ball.19.4Varun to Buttler, no runFinds the fielder as he reverse sweeps straight to short third. Good stop by Harshit19.5Varun to Buttler, 2 runsGets a high full toss, Buttler thumps it to wide long-off, the throw from Starc is loopy and wide, Buttler somehow cobbles a second. He’s exhausted, but somehow gets there.Scores level19.6Varun to Buttler, 1 runHeaves it into the leg side, gets it past the infield and Royals have pulled off IPL’s biggest run chase.Jos Buttler can’t feel his arms. He has no strength left. He is soaking wet, the jersey sticking to his body like a wet towel. He’s barely able to walk back, but how satisfied will be, having helped Royals pull off a heist.Buttler could barely strike the ball off the square in the first half of his innings, but the inherent belief that he could find his gears in the end kept him going. And when push came to shove, with the asking rate spiralling higher, he found his hitting range. Even as wickets kept tumbling, he held his own and saw off a sensational chase. Take a bow.
Only two points currently separate the four teams from fourth to seventh spots
S Rajesh16-May-2022Delhi Capitals: Mat 13, Pts 14, NRR 0.255 Delhi Capitals’ comfortable 17-run win against Punjab Kings is good news for them, but not so encouraging for all the other teams trying to sneak into the playoffs. Capitals’ net run rate, which was already a healthy 0.210, has gone up to 0.255, but the runs that Kings scored towards the end means that there is still a chance for other teams to catch up, should there be an NRR scramble for the last spot.From Capitals’ point of view, the equation is simple: win the last game against Mumbai Indians on Saturday, and qualify for sure. Even if they lose and stay on 14, they will have a fair chance to qualify if Royal Challengers Bangalore lose to Gujarat Titans. However, if it comes down to NRR, they aren’t yet safe.If Capitals lose their last game by 30 runs (chasing 171), their NRR will fall to 0.123. Currently, Kolkata Knight Riders are on 0.160, so a win by any margin in their last game will keep them above 0.123. If Capitals lose by 15 runs, their NRR will be 0.179. Thus, Capitals could still be on a sticky wicket if they lose to Mumbai. They play their last game after Knight Riders, though, so they will know the equation before they get into that game on Saturday.Punjab Kings: Mat 13, Pts 12, NRR -0.043 Kings’ qualification chances have taken a severe beating with the loss to Capitals. Their NRR has slid into negative space, and even a 40-run win against Sunrisers in their last game (after scoring 170) will only improve it to 0.112. However, big victory margins have been common in the last few games – in seven of the last 12, the winning margin has been greater than 50 runs, while another win came with 31 balls to spare – which should give the Kings some hope.They also play the last game of the league stage, which means they’ll know if they have a chance at all, and exactly what they need to do. Obviously, if Capitals or Royal Challengers win their last match and move to 16 points, then Kings will be knocked out.Royal Challengers Bangalore: Mat 13, Pts 14, NRR -0.323 Royal Challengers will need Capitals to lose their last game to stand a chance of qualifying. Even if Royal Challengers score 200 and win their last game by 100 runs, their NRR will only improve to 0.071. Capitals will be well ahead of that if they win by any margin.And if both these teams lose and stay on 14, Capitals will have to lose by an absurdly high margin for their NRR to slip below that of Royal Challengers. For instances, if Royals Challengers lose by one run, Capitals will have to lose by around 150 (depending on the exact scores).In other words, Royal Challengers will have to win their last game, against table-toppers Titans, and hope that Capitals lose theirs against bottom-of-the-table Mumbai.Kolkata Knight Riders: Mat 13, Pts 12, NRR 0.160 Knight Riders still have a chance of qualifying if they win their last game, and if Capitals and Royal Challengers lose theirs. As mentioned earlier, their relatively healthy NRR means that they are best placed to capitalise if those two teams slip up.Sunrisers Hyderabad: Mat 12, Pts 10, NRR -0.270 Even if Sunrisers score 170 and win each of their last two games by 40 runs, their NRR will only improve to 0.056. Capitals will have to lose by around 48 runs for their NRR to drop below that. It looks highly unlikely that Sunrisers will progress further in the tournament, but they could do worse than pull off a big win against Mumbai Indians on Tuesday, and keep their slim hopes alive.
Who plays for who? How much did they cost? How likely are they to play? Here are all the answers
Andrew McGlashan17-Sep-2020While Australia’s domestic summer is likely to get underway next month, there will be plenty of Australian players at the IPL in the UAE over the next seven weeks after the tournament was rescheduled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Here’s who is going where and how likely they are to get into the team.Note: Exchange rates are approximate as of early September; The need for Australian players coming from the UK to quarantine on arrival may impact their initial availability.Alex Carey (Delhi Capitals)Carey has become Australia’s first choice limited-overs wicketkeeper over the last couple of years and until recently was a joint vice-captain before losing that title for the tour of England. He has floated up and down the order with Australia trying him as an opener and a finisher, with the latter role where he has settled for now, although he was dropped for the most recent T20I against England. In the BBL his success has come as an opener or at No. 4Price tag INR 2.4 crore (approx A$450,000)IPL history First seasonOverall T20 stats Matches: 76; Innings: 62; Runs 1624, Avg: 30.07, S/R 130.23How likely to make starting XI? May be competing with team-mate Marcus Stoinis for a place at the top of the order and is unlikely to keep wicket with Rishabh Pant also at the Capitals.Nathan Coulter-Nile (Mumbai Indians)A little over a year ago, Coulter-Nile featured in Australia’s ODI World Cup squad and had a CA central contract. He is now out of the national set-up and during this off-season dropped off the CA list and also lost his state deal with Western Australia although he remains part of the Melbourne Stars in the BBL. He has a lengthy association with the IPL, having had three franchises dating back to 2013.Price tag INR 8 crore (approx A$1,500,000)IPL history Mumbai Indians (2013, 2020); Delhi Daredevils (2014-2016); Kolkata Knight Riders (2017)Overall IPL stats Matches: 26; Inns: 12; Runs: 52; Avg 6.50; S/R 104.00 | Wickets: 36; Avg: 19.97; Econ: 7.66How likely to make starting XI? Could be competing with fellow overseas pacemen James Pattinson and Mitchell McClenaghan for the third pace-bowling slot, although Coulter-Nile brings the most batting ability of those three.Pat Cummins (Kolkata Knight Riders)One of the biggest stars in the game, Cummins became the most expensive overseas player in the IPL at the auction last December. He has been at the peak of his powers over the last two seasons for Australia and after not playing T20I for two years he is now an integral part of that side. Cummins made his first IPL appearance in 2014 and was due to play for Mumbai Indians in 2018 before injury ruled him outPrice tag INR 15.5 crore (approx A$2,900,000)IPL history Kolkata Knight Riders (2014, 2015, 2020); Delhi Daredevils (2017), Mumbai Indians (2018)Overall IPL stats Matches: 16; Wickets: 17; Avg: 29.35; Econ 8.29How likely to make starting XI? You can ink Cummins into the team when he’s available.Australia’s top order will be on display at the IPL•Getty ImagesAaron Finch (Royal Challengers Bangalore)Australia’s limited-overs captain is not far off having done a full circuit of IPL franchises with this year’s RCB deal his eighth team in the competition. After a dip in form for Australia that briefly threatened his standing leading into last year’s World Cup he is back as a consistent run-scorer in ODIs and T20s. His most successful season in the IPL came in 2013 with the Pune Warriors when he scored 456 runs. Missed last year’s tournament to prepare for the World Cup.Price tag INR 4.4 crore (approx A$820,000)IPL history Rajasthan Royals (2010); Delhi Daredevils (2011, 2012); Pune Warriors (2013); Sunrisers Hyderabad (2014); Mumbai Indians (2015); Gujarat Lions (2016, 2017); Kings XI Punjab (2018)Overall IPL stats Matches: 75; Inns: 73; Runs: 1737; Avg 26.31; S/R: 130.69How likely to make starting XI? The Australia captain is a first-choice opener but with Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers in the middle order he won’t want to waste many deliveries.Chris Green (Kolkata Knight Riders)The offspinner, who has become a T20 specialist, was handed his first IPL deal at last year’s auction. His 2019-2020 Australian season was curtailed when his action was reported and he was suspended from bowling, but he passed reassessment earlier this year and has just finished captaining Guyana Amazon Warriors at the CPL where his thrifty bowling made an impression with the new ball.Price tag INR 20 lakh (approx A$37,000)IPL history First seasonOverall T20 stats Matches: 93; Inns: 58; Runs: 523; Avg 14.52; S/R 124.52 | Wickets: 74; Avg: 27.33; Econ: 6.64How likely to make starting XI? Is likely to struggle to make the team at the start but could become an option depending how the surfaces wear during the tournament.Josh Hazlewood (Chennai Super Kings)Known for his outstanding Test record, Hazlewood is also an excellent performer with the white ball although his T20 appearances have been limited in recent seasons. He came back into the Sydney Sixers side last year and helped them to the Big Bash title and recently played his first T20I in four years against England. Was part of the Mumbai Indians set-up in 2014 but did not play and then withdraw from his deal the following year to manage his workload.Price tag INR 2 crore (approx A$370,000)IPL history Mumbai Indians (2014, 2015 – did not play)Overall T20 stats Matches: 36; Wickets: 43; Avg: 24.09; Econ 7.51How likely to make starting XI? CSK have two overseas openers (Shane Watson and Faf du Plessis) plus Dwayne Bravo in the middle order and Mitchell Santner and Imran Tahir among their spin options, so Hazlewood is likely to have to bide his time.4:43
Is there room for both Steyn and Morris in the RCB XI?
Chris Lynn (Mumbai Indians)Lynn, one of the biggest hitters in the game, has had IPL deals since 2011 although some seasons have been interrupted by injury and between 2012 and 2016 he only played five matches. After being a regular for KKR in the 2018 and 2019 tournaments he was released and found a new home with Mumbai Indians. After being in and out of the Australia set-up his international prospects have faded and he no longer holds a state contract but remains a key part of the Brisbane Heat in the BBL.Price tag INR 2 crore (approx A$370,000)IPL history Deccan Chargers (2011, 2012), Sunrisers Hyderabad (2013), Kolkata Knight Riders (2014-2019)Overall IPL stats Matches: 41; Inns: 41; Runs: 1280; Avg 33.68; S/R: 140.65How likely to make starting XI? The strength of Mumbai’s overseas options, which include Quinton de Kock, Kieron Pollard and Trent Boult, plus the fact that Rohit Sharma opens, is set to leave Lynn on the bench.Mitchell Marsh (Sunrisers Hyderabad)Marsh earned his first IPL deal with Deccan Chargers in 2010 on the back of a successful Under-19 World Cup and the following season was signed by Pune Warriors, coached by his father Geoff. His three-year spell with them was interrupted by a back injury that ruled him out of the 2012 season. His latest deal with Sunrisers Hyderabad is his first since 2016 and comes at a time when he is starting to re-establish himself in the Australia side.Price tag INR 2 crore (approx A$370,000)IPL history Deccan Chargers (2010), Pune Warriors (2011-2013); Rising Pune Supergiant (2016)Overall IPL stats Matches: 20; Inns: 14; Runs: 225; Avg 18.75; S/R: 114.79 | Wickets: 20; Avg: 20.70; Econ 7.88How likely to make starting XI? It’s difficult to see how Marsh forces his way in with the overseas quartet of captain David Warner, Jonny Bairstow, Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan when all are available.Glenn Maxwell (Kings XI Punjab)One of the biggest names in T20 cricket, Maxwell secured a huge contract with Kings XI to return to the IPL having opted out of the 2019 edition to play county cricket. It marks a return to the franchise where he previously spent four seasons, having first been picked up by the IPL before playing for Australia. His overall batting average is a touch underwhelming but his strike rate is impressive.Price tag INR 10.75 crore (approx A$2,000,000)IPL history Delhi Daredevils (2012, 2018), Mumbai Indians (2013), Kings XI Punjab (2014-2017, 2020)Overall IPL stats Matches: 69; Inns: 68; Runs: 1397; Avg 22.90; S/R: 161.13 | Wickets: 16; Avg: 38.18; Econ 8.72How likely to make starting XI? Maxwell can expect to slot into the middle order, possibly alongside the hugely talented Nicholas Pooran from West Indies.Josh Philippe was Man of the Match in the BBL final•Getty ImagesJames Pattinson (Mumbai Indians)Signed by Mumbai Indians after Lasith Malinga’s withdrawal, Pattinson is a bowler capable of express pace having returned from significant back surgery. He was previously on the books of KKR for three seasons but did not play a match and was ruled out of the 2013 tournament with injury.Price tag Unknown (replacement player)IPL history Kolkata Knight Riders (2011-2013 – did not play)Overall T20 stats Matches: 39; Wickets: 47; Avg: 24.12; Econ 8.25How likely to make starting XI? Given Pattinson was a replacement for a certain starter in Malinga it could be he comes straight into the mix, although McClenaghan and Coulter-Nile are other options.Josh Philippe (Royal Challengers Bangalore)One of the rising stars of Australian cricket, Philippe is an aggressive top-order batsman and wicketkeeper. He starred in the BBL final for the Sydney Sixers last season and the recent tour of England was his first time in the national squad.Price tag INR 20 lakh (approx A$37,000)IPL history First seasonOverall T20 stats Matches: 32; Inns: 32; Runs: 798; Avg 33.25; S/R: 138.30How likely to make starting XI? With two overseas batsmen in the top order (Finch and de Villiers) it will be tough for Philippe to get into the side to start with.Daniel Sams (Delhi Capitals)Sams, a left-arm seamer, is something of a late developer in Australian cricket following two breakthrough seasons for the Sydney Thunder and was the leading wicket-taker in the 2019-2020 BBL. He is also a capable striker of the ball although had a horror run with the bat last season. He was handed a late IPL deal when Jason Roy withdrew.Price tag Unknown (replacement player for Jason Roy)IPL history First seasonOverall T20 stats Matches: 37; Inns: 31; Runs: 231; Avg 8.55; S/R: 117.85 | Wickets: 52; Avg: 18.36; Econ 8.13How likely to make starting XI? Depending on how the Capitals balance their team, Sams could be competing with the West Indian Keemo Paul for the pace-bowling allrounder position, which could be a test of how his batting has recovered from last season.4:47
Will Yashasvi Jaiswal be breakthrough star for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2020?
Billy Stanlake (Sunrisers Hyderabad)A tall pace bowler capable of pushing the speedgun towards 150kph, Stanlake is looking to resurrect his T20 career after a difficult couple of seasons. He was part of Australia’s T20 side last year but has since drifted down the pecking order and recently moved from the Adelaide Strikers to the Brisbane Heat in the BBL. He has previous IPL experience across two deals but has only played a handful of games.Price tag INR 50 lakh (approx A$93,000)IPL history Royal Challengers Bangalore (2017); Sunrisers Hyderabad (2018, 2020)Overall IPL stats Matches: 6; Wickets: 7; Avg: 28.57; Econ 8.33How likely to make starting XI? Difficult to see how he gets in with SRH having two overseas spinners (Khan and Nabi) along with two overseas openers (Warner and Bairstow).Marcus Stoinis (Delhi Capitals)Stoinis joins the Capitals, his fourth IPL team, on the back of a record-breaking BBL where he scored 705 runs for the Melbourne Stars. That followed a disappointing ODI World Cup which saw him lose his Australia place but he returned to the side on the recent England tour. His career-best T20 bowling figures of 4 for 15 came in the IPL, for Kings XI back in 2016.Price tag INR 4.8 crore (approx A$900,000)IPL history Delhi Daredevils (2015); Kings XI Punjab (2016-2018), Royal Challengers Bangalore (2019)Overall IPL stats Matches: 29; Inns: 25; Runs: 473; Avg 31.53; S/R: 129.94 | Wickets: 15; Avg: 37.93; Econ 9.30How likely to make starting XI? Given the all-round package Stoinis brings he has a good chance of securing a spot in the top order.AJ Tye (Rajasthan Royals)Tye, a pace bowler known for having a bag of tricks including a hugely deceptive knuckle ball, did not play during his first IPL deal with CSK. However, he made a name for himself on debut for the Gujarat Lions in 2017 when he claimed 5 for 17 – which remain his career-best figures – including a hat-trick. The following season, having moved to Kings XI, he was their leading wicket-taker with 24. He missed the entire 2019-2020 BBL having suffered an elbow injury.Price tag INR 1 crore (approx A$190,000)IPL history Chennai Super Kings (2015-16); Gujarat Lions (2017); Kings XI Punjab (2018-19), Rajasthan Royals (2020)Overall IPL stats Matches: 26; Wickets: 39; Avg: 21.07; Econ 8.30How likely to make starting XI? Despite an impressive IPL record it will be a challenge to take one of the four overseas spots in a starting XI with Jos Buttler, Steven Smith and Ben Stokes in a first-choice top order – although the availability of the latter is still in doubt – and Jofra Archer in the attack.4:52
Can Mohammad Nabi or Fabian Allen step up as finishers?
David Warner (Sunrisers Hyderabad)One of the most prolific batsmen in IPL history, Warner is the leading run scorer among overseas batsman with only Rohit Sharma, Suresh Raina and Virat Kohli ahead of him. He has the most 50-plus scores in the tournament with 48 which includes four centuries. Like Smith he missed the 2018 tournament due to the ball-tampering episode but returned in 2019 to average 69.20 in 12 matches, which followed averages of 58.27 in 2017 and 60.57 in 2016. Will captain SRH.Price tag INR 12.5 crore (approx A$2,300,000)IPL history Delhi Daredevils (2009-2013); Sunrisers Hyderabad (2014-2020)Overall IPL stats Matches: 126; Inns: 126; Runs: 4706; Avg 43.17; S/R: 142.39How likely to make starting XI? Yeah, we think he might squeeze in.Shane Watson (Chennai Super Kings)Watson is an IPL original having played the inaugural season in 2008 and has only missed one campaign, in 2009, because of Australia duty and injury. In 2013 he was named Player of the Tournament for a return of 543 runs and 13 wickets then in 2014 became the most expensive overseas player in the league. In last year’s final he struck 80 off 59 balls with an injury but fell in the last over as the Super Kings lost by one run. Watson no longer plays professionally in Australian cricket.Price tag INR 4 crore (approx A$740,000)IPL history Rajasthan Royals (2008-2015); Royal Challengers Bangalore (2016-17); Chennai Super Kings (2018-2020)Overall IPL stats Matches: 134; Inns: 130; Runs: 3575; Avg 31.08; S/R: 139.53 | Wickets: 92; Avg 29.15; Econ 7.93How likely to make starting XI? At 39, Watson remains a first-choice pick at the top of the order.Adam Zampa (Royal Challengers Bangalore)A late call-up to replace Australian team-mate Kane Richardson, Zampa returns to a tournament where he holds the third-best bowling figures of 6 for 19 which he claimed in his second outing for Supergiant in 2016 – although his team still lost the match. The following season Supergiant made the final where Zampa took 2 for 32 but Mumbai Indians won a low-scoring thriller by one run.Price tag Unknown (replacement player for Kane Richardson)IPL history Rising Pune Supergiant (2016-17)Overall IPL stats Matches: 11; Wickets: 19; Avg 14.63; Econ 7.54How likely to make starting XI? Given he doesn’t offer much batting, Zampa may struggle to get in the side with Yuzvendra Chahal the other specialist legspinner.
Reigning American League Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal will take the ball for the American League as the team's starter in the MLB All-Star Game on Tuesday in Atlanta. It's the first career All-Star start for Skubal, who seems to have received an assist from fellow AL All-Star and New York Yankees ace Max Fried.
Skubal told Tigers beat writer Evan Woodbery that Fried had called him recently with an admirable offer.
"He asked me if I wanted to start (the ASG)," Skubal said.
Skubal told Woodbery that he initially balked at Fried's offer, and extended the offer back to Fried, who had spent the first eight seasons of his career in Atlanta, where the All-Star Game will take place.
That's when Fried insisted.
"I think you deserve it," Fried insisted. "I was just wondering if you wanted to start it."
Skubal said he then received the call from AL manager Aaron Boone, who let him know he'd be the AL's starter. The Tigers ace, who ranks third in the AL in ERA and second in strikeouts, said he admired Fried for the remarkable gesture.
"It was actually a really cool conversation [with Fried]," Skubal said. "It’s a very professional thing to do, and I've got a ton of respect for guys that do stuff like that."
Fried on Friday opted out of the All-Star Game, likely due to the shorter turnaround from his start against the Chicago Cubs, an appearance in which he exited due to a blister on his left index finger.
The All-Star Game will take place on Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET.
Leeds United are now reportedly prioritising a deal to sign a South American defender ahead of Italian giants Juventus in the January transfer window.
Leeds still plotting Farke replacement despite Chelsea win
The Premier League is a harsh world, isn’t it? The pressure was increasing on Daniel Farke ahead of the Chelsea game, but you wouldn’t have known it after his side swept past Chelsea in a stunning 3-1 victory.
Reports in the build-up to the game claimed the German had to avoid defeat against the Blues and Liverpool this weekend to ensure that his job remains safe. It seemed an impossible task. Chelsea had just pushed Premier League leaders Arsenal all the way with 10 men and Liverpool, even in a difficult moment, remain the champions.
Come Wednesday night, however, there were no complaints from Farke. Instead, there was tactical genius. His 5-3-2 sytem physically outmatched Chelsea and Leeds, against the odds, secured a stunning 3-1 victory at Elland Road.
It would now be easy to assume that Farke’s job is safe. Yet, according to the BBC’s Sami Mokbel, those at Elland Road are still preparing for the worst-case scenario.
The reporter revealed: “Sources have told BBC Sport that the process of identifying potential candidates to replace Farke has begun. It is not unusual practice for clubs to plot a succession plan for their managerial position regardless of the incumbent’s job security.
“But Leeds’ poor form, which left them in the relegation zone before Wednesday’s win, has placed significant pressure on Farke – serving to amplify the club’s movement towards pinpointing possible successors to the German.”
It would be a ruthless decision by the 49ers, but that may not be the only change on the way. With the January transfer window approaching, Leeds have already set their sights on Real Betis star Natan.
Leeds prioritising Natan deal
According to reports in Spain, Leeds are now prioritising a deal to sign Natan from Real Betis in the January transfer window. The Brazilian defender is valued at around €40m (£35m) by the Spanish club and has also attracted the interest of Serie A giants Juventus.
Leeds star was looking "bang average" this season, now he's undroppable
This Leeds star has shone in their last two games
ByJoe Nuttall Dec 5, 2025
It’s clear to see why both Leeds and Juventus have set their sights on the 24-year-old. He’s enjoyed an impressive start to the current campaign and could now secure a move, be it in the new year or next summer.
Minutes
1,260
1,260
Ball Recoveries
41
50
Tackles Won
10
3
Successful Aerial Duels
41
42
Statistically speaking, Natan would have no trouble getting into Farke’s best side. Compared to Joe Rodon, the South American has thrived out of possession and particularly impressed in the air.
The big question that remains is whether Leeds will be willing to splash out £35m for his signature. Their record signing still sits at £35.5m for Georginio Rutter and it would take some doing to break that as early as the January transfer window.
Best signing since Raphinha: Leeds star is one of "the best" players in PL
A day after they announced that ace pitcher Gerrit Cole would undergo season-ending Tommy John surgery, the New York Yankees continue to reel. A new number one starter will have to emerge on a team seeking to repeat its 2024 successes.
According to MLB Network's Jon Morosi, you can likely cross out one much-discussed trade candidate from a list of potential Cole replacements: San Diego Padres hurler Dylan Cease.
"I would hesitate to rule out anything in terms of moves [Padres general manager] A.J. Preller could make," Morosi said Tuesday. "However, I would say this: The expectation in the industry over the last 24 hours is that Dylan Cease is not going to be traded to the Yankees."
Cease, twice a top-five finisher in the Cy Young voting, is set to hit free agency after the 2025 season. Morosi cited New York's reluctance to add payroll and top-heavy farm system as obstacles to a deal.
"I just do not think we are going to see a Dylan Cease trade that rescues the Yankees' rotation," Morosi said.