Ready to leave: Barcelona now want to sign "incredible" Aston Villa star

Ahead of a summer full of potential sales, Aston Villa could now lose one of Unai Emery’s most important players to Barcelona amid reports that he’s now ready to leave the club.

Why Aston Villa may need to sell

After the Premier League received a glimpse of their potential troubles when they sold Jhon Duran to Al-Nassr in the January transfer window, Aston Villa could be in for a long summer. Failure to qualify for the Champions League would particularly exacerbate their PSR problems to the stage that they may be left with no choice but to sell once again.

Many have had their say on the potential problems that Aston Villa face this summer and former Villans chief Keith Wyness, who now runs a football consultancy which advises top clubs, has been among those.

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Wyness recently told Football Insider: “The issue with PSR is not surprising. They’ve been sailing close to the wind. It’s only been the cleverness of Monchi and the recruitment team which have got them out of trouble so far.

“They’re going to have to do it again. It may be a player sold that the Villa fans are not happy about. That’s where the value will be. When you look at what Emery has done with squad strengthening, the fans will forgive him and allow him to get the resources to go ahead in the market – and meet PSR.”

Just who heads for the exit door with that said is now the big question. Emery’s squad is one filled with talent, there’s no doubt about that, but whether the Spaniard will help open the door for the likes of Ollie Watkins or Morgan Rogers to leave remains to be seen this summer. Instead, it could be another Aston Villa who heads for a summer exit.

Barcelona plotting move to sign Aston Villa star Emiliano Martinez

According to reports in Spain, Barcelona are now targeting a move to sign Emiliano Martinez, who is ready to leave Aston Villa for a ‘bigger club’ when the summer transfer window arrives.

The Argentine shot-stopper has rebuilt his career at Villa Park over the years and become one of the best in the world in his position – winning the Yashin Trophy twice. Now, however, with Barcelona calling, the 32-year-old could be set to depart.

What certainly shouldn’t be seen as a positive sign over his future for those at Villa Park is just how emotional Martinez looked following his final home game of the season. The former Arsenal man even looked to be waving a tearful goodbye to the fans.

A player who was praised for an “incredible” save by legend Alessandro del Piero in Aston Villa’s 0-0 draw against Juventus earlier this season, Martinez would be an undeniable loss for those in the Midlands.

Their own Postecoglou: Rangers shortlist "exciting" 4-3-3 manager

Glasgow Rangers’ next managerial appointment at Ibrox is the most important decision in the club’s recent history.

Since Rangers won league title number 55 in the 2020/21 season, the Gers have gone from coach to coach with no real identity, winning just two trophies in the process.

With the 49ers Enterprises takeover reportedly edging closer to completion, whoever comes in to manage at Ibrox next must be the man who can end years of their Old Firm rivals’ dominance.

Rangers interim managerBarryFergusonbefore the match

Of course, this is easier said than done, especially considering the magnitude of the challenge faced by the next manager. Can a team be built over the course of a single summer that could change the future of the Light Blues?

It will be difficult, but there is no doubt that it can be done. Martin O’Neil signed players such as Chris Sutton, Neil Lennon and Alan Thompson upon arriving at the club in the summer of 2000.

A year later, he led the club to a treble success, reinvigorating the Parkhead side within a single transfer window.

Fast-forward 20 years and Ange Postecoglou did a similar sort of thing when he took the reins ahead of the 2021/22 campaign.

Rangers must bring in their own Postecoglou this summer

During the summer of 2021, Steven Gerrard was looking to kick on from the club’s Premiership title success and turn them into the dominant force in Scotland.

A lack of backing by the board – which ultimately culminated in his departure that November – meant the Light Blues didn’t make much progress on the field, domestically anyway.

Steven Gerrard

Postecoglou was deemed a risky appointment by Celtic, despite enjoying success in Japan during his previous role. Signings such as Kyogo Furuhashi, Daizen Maeda and Jota provided the springboard for the Parkhead side to eventually overtake their rivals, although it did take a few months for things to gel.

The following year, they won another treble, and it was evident that the Australian manager had built something special in the space of just two years.

His style of play ensured Celtic had an identity, and they regularly got the best of the Gers during this period, losing to the Ibrox side just three times under the current Spurs manager.

Perhaps this is the direction that Rangers should be heading in this summer? Bringing in someone with a distinctive style of play that will appease the supporters and, in turn, achieve positive results.

As such, a shortlist has reportedly been chosen by the club for whom the next manager could be.

Rangers search for a new manager

The Telegraph’s Mike McGrath has reported recently that a quartet of names are being considered for the vacant managerial role. Gerrard is being ‘considered’ for the job, despite the board wanting to go in a new direction. Elsewhere, Rob Edwards, Gary O’Neil and Russell Martin are the other three names which are mentioned in the report.

McGrath states that there is ‘no clear favourite’ and there are several foreign coaches also on the current longlist.

With news that Athletic Club were knocked out of the Europa League at the semi-final stage, Rangers now enter the second round of Champions League qualifying, with the first leg either on July 22 or 23.

This indicates that the club need to make a decision on a new manager as soon as possible, especially with competitive fixtures starting so soon after pre-season.

With so many names being linked or on a shortlist, could the club bring in their own Ange by appointing Martin to the role of first-team manager?

Why Rangers must hire Russell Martin

Martin’s name may not stand out with regard to several other of the potential candidates, including the likes of Marco Rose or even Gerrard, but his attacking style of play could be key in getting him the role.

Indeed, respected analyst John Walker has regularly lobbied for Martin to secure the job ahead of next season and has praised him on numerous occasions of late.

Southampton’s stats in the Championship under Russell Martin

Goals

87

Goals per game

1.9

Ball possession

66%

Big chances per game

2.8

Clean sheets

12

Goals conceded per game

1.4

Via Sofascore

Walker said that Martin “improves younger players” while promoting “exciting attacking football” that could see Rangers begin to thrive in domestic competition once again.

Even greater praise has come from Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, who said earlier this season: “He’s proven that his philosophy is extremely successful, what he did with Southampton and last year they were 25 games unbeaten. It was a joy to watch that team play, they deserve much more than what they have already.”

Indeed, Southampton may have struggled in the Premier League under the Scot, but in the second tier, they were incredible.

The Saints ranked in the top three out of all Championship clubs for chances created, shots at goal and big chances missed, while also completing the second-fewest long passes in the division.

This last statistic is particularly important. His teams love building up the play and focus on weak spots in the opposition defence. At times, under Philippe Clement, the back four regularly punted long balls up the pitch for the likes of Cyriel Dessers to chase, a tactic which did the coach no favours at all.

Judging by this, Martin has an approach which would fit with the direction Rangers wish to go in, especially with some of the players he will have at his disposal next season.

Operating with a 4-3-3 system, this could work wonders for the likes of Nico Raskin, Mohamed Diomande and Hamza Igamane going forwards.

Although he hasn’t won anything during his coaching career thus far, his style of play has been evident across spells with Southampton, Swansea and MK Dons. That much is certain.

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Will the board and new owners wish to appoint him, however? Especially given his lack of success. Or will they take a gamble this summer?

With the way things have gone recently, perhaps a gamble wouldn’t be a bad idea. He might just turn out to the club’s very own Ange.

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Tottenham may sign £300k-p/w Premier League star if they win Europa League

Tottenham Hotspur could sign a big-name Premier League star if they manage to win the Europa League, according to reports, with a lot already on the line as Spurs aim to make history by lifting their first major trophy in 17 years.

Tottenham face Bodo/Glimt in crunch Europa League semi-final

Norwegian minnows and this year’s unlikely Europa semi-finalists, Bodo/Glimt, stand between Ange Postecoglou and Spurs’ first European final since 2019.

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However, they would be foolish to take them lightly, considering Bodo/Glimt are in this position for a reason, not to mention fresh off knocking Serie A giants Lazio out in the quarter-finals.

Tottenham’s final Premier League fixtures

Date

West Ham (away)

May 3rd

Crystal Palace (home)

May 10th

Aston Villa (away)

May 18th

Brighton (home)

May 25th

On paper, the north Londoners blow them away in terms of quality, but crazier upsets have occurred in Europe. Postecoglou will be fully aware that his side have a tough task on their hands, with the Australian praising Bodo/Glimt heading into their two-legged tie.

“Yeah, they have been pretty consistent the last few years, obviously the same manager and core group of players, but definitely a distinct style of football that they have stuck to, and they’ve had success with,” said Postecoglou about Bodo/Glimt.

“They’ve been pretty consistent in the Norwegian league but also in Europe and every game they’ve played, irrespective of the opposition, they’ve played some really good quality opposition in Europe and always been really competitive. I think that is very borne from the fact they are very stable, have a clear understanding of how they play their football. It will be a good challenge for us.”

Tottenham are in dire need of a successful European campaign after their dire 2024/2025 domestically, having lost an unacceptable 19 Premier League games, with real uncertainty surrounding Postecoglou’s long-term future as a result.

Postecoglou could even leave Spurs regardless of their success in the Europa League (The Telegraph), but even if the former Celtic boss is destined to leave N17, winning the competition could significantly boost their hopes of attracting key transfer targets in the summer.

Victory in the Europa League would mean qualification for next season’s Champions League, with £300,000-per-week Man United outcast and current Aston Villa star Marcus Rashford on Spurs’ shortlist.

Tottenham could sign Marcus Rashford if they win the Europa League

Tottenham are believed to be in the race to sign Rashford this summer, once his Villa loan expires, and the England forward appears to have many options after an impressive temporary stint in the Midlands.

As per Football Insider and journalist Pete O’Rourke, the Lilywhites are outside contenders for the 27-year-old as things stand, and Tottenham only stand a chance of signing Rashford if they win the Europa League.

This comes as a pretty intriguing update, and one which adds yet more weight to their semi-final tie. Rashford would be a great addition for Postecoglou or any prospective new manager, but there will be some negotiating to do around his mammoth salary.

Tottenham’s current highest earner, Son Heung-min, is only on around £190,000-per-week by comparison, and it is highly unlikely chairman Daniel Levy would be willing to cripple the club’s wage bill to sign Rashford.

He's similar to Palmer: Man Utd showing interest in £38m "football artist"

Manchester United are now showing the “greatest interest” in signing a “true football artist”, but they will have to fork out his €45m (£38m) release clause to secure his signature, according to a journalist.

Man Utd set to bolster attacking options

Much of the goalscoring burden has fallen on Bruno Fernandes this season, while the Portugal international also leads the way for Man United on the assist charts, with Amad the only other forward to regularly chip in with attacking contributions.

As such, it is little wonder that Ruben Amorim wants to bolster his attacking options this summer, and a new striker is of particular interest, with progress now being made in the pursuit of Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, having reached an agreement on personal terms.

Not only is Amorim keen on a new striker, but a new playmaker could also be brought in to ease the burden on Fernandes, and the Red Devils have reportedly submitted a monster £115.7m bid for RB Leipzig attacking midfielder Xavi Simons.

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Simons has caught the eye with his impressive performances in the Bundesliga, picking up nine goals and five assists this season, but there have also been suggestions that United could take a chance on more of an unknown quantity.

In a recent update on X, journalist Cesar Luis Merlo has now revealed Man United are showing the “greatest interest” in signing River Plate attacking midfielder Franco Mastantuono, with a view to getting a deal done this summer.

FrancoMastantuonoduring the match

Amorim’s side are “constantly following” Mastantuono, having already watched him in action, but they know the only way to prise him away from River Plate will be to stump up the €45m (£38m) release clause included in his contract.

"True football artist" Mastantuono likened to Palmer

The River Plate youngster is only 17, but he already has a great deal of first-team experience, making 54 appearances for the Argentine side, during which time he has picked up six goals and five assists.

In light of his attacking capabilities, the Argentine has even been likened to Chelsea star Cole Palmer by scout Ben Mattinson.

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig has also clearly been impressed by the starlet, describing him as a “true football artist” and “one of the most enjoyable youngsters to watch in world football” back in November.

It would, of course, be a risk to shell out £38m on Mastantuono, given that he is unproven outside Argentina, but there are clear signs he could adapt to life in the Premier League and make a name for himself at Manchester United.

Arsenal now most likely to sign "unbelievable" £39m forward after Sane blow

Arsenal are now believed to be among the frontrunners for the signing of a new forward target after missing out on Bayern Munich star Leroy Sané, who is committing his future to the Bundesliga side with a new contract.

Leroy Sané on verge of Bayern Munich stay after talks with Arsenal

Earlier this week, Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg shared news of fresh Arsenal talks with Sane over a potential move to the Emirates Stadium, but the former Man City star appears more likely to snub Mikel Arteta.

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The 29-year-old, who’s impressed with a string of standout performances for Bayern in recent weeks, was due to leave on a Bosman deal past June 30th. However, he is now edging towards signing fresh terms at the Allianz Arena.

Arsenal’s next five Premier League games

Date

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

April 23rd

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

Plettenberg reports that Bayern have made an official new contract offer to Sane, with all parties now working to reach an agreement over an extension, which spells bad news for Arsenal’s attempts to bring in a new right-winger this summer.

The journalist also states that Sane is about to extend his Bayern contract in a separate message, so it’s more likely than not Arsenal are about to miss out on a free deal for the Germany international star.

Interestingly, the Sky reporter has now claimed that the Gunners are eyeing an alternative in wantaway Bayern teammate Kingsley Coman.

Arsenal now "most concrete" option for Bayern Munich star Kingsley Coman

According to Plettenberg, Arsenal is now the “most concrete” landing spot for Coman, who has told Bayern chiefs that he’d like to leave this summer.

However, it won’t be a free run for Arteta’s side either, with Tottenham also eyeing a move for the Frenchman and Saudi planning transfer talks.

Bayern Munich's KingsleyComancelebrates

“Kingsley Coman has already internally expressed his desire to leave this summer, as revealed,” wrote Plettenberg on X.

“Saudi clubs are now taking the matter seriously and are planning a visit to Munich for talks with Bayern. In England, Arsenal are currently the most concrete option – especially since Leroy Sané is about to extend his contract with Bayern. Spurs would like to sign Coman but are currently in a waiting position due to his high salary.”

While the 28-year-old earns a reported £284,000 per week in Germany, which would make him one of Arsenal’s highest-paid players, Coman’s price tag stands at up to £39 million – making him an obtainable option in terms of club-to-club negotiations.

Bayern's Kingsley Coman

The former PSG and Juventus winger has racked up nearly 140 goals and assists combined over almost 330 appearances since joining Bayern, all whilst showcasing real ability on the highest stage.

“He was at PSG as an eight-year-old boy,” said pundit Rio Ferdinand.

“With the money that came in with the Qataris, he was one of the players who were offloaded, and he’s come back and done this. His trophy haul since leaving – it shouldn’t be allowed. It’s unbelievable. The kid knows how to win.”

One major drawback which Arsenal need to be aware of is Coman’s injury history, with Arteta keen to avoid being left so short of wide options akin to this season.

Pep's next De Bruyne: Man City considering move for "sensational" £50m star

Manchester City are now considering a move for a “sensational” £50m midfielder to replace Kevin De Bruyne this summer, according to a report from David Ornstein for The Athletic.

Pep pays tribute to De Bruyne

De Bruyne has played a pivotal role in Man City’s success during the Pep Guardiola era, and the manager has paid tribute to the Belgian for his contributions, saying: “We’ve always had a special relationship. Kevin is a special person and player.”

The attacking midfielder is the last player remaining from the squad Guardiola inherited in 2015-16, but the Spaniard will now have to bring in a replacement this summer, with the 33-year-old set to leave upon the expiration of his contract.

Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz has regularly been linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium, and there has now been a positive update on City’s pursuit of the German, with it being revealed they are now leading the race for his signature.

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Bringing in a young attacking midfielder from the Bundesliga has shades of the Sky Blues’ original move for De Bruyne, who arrived from Wolfsburg, but they could also choose to bring in an established Premier League player.

That is according to a report from The Athletic, with Ornstein stating Man City are now considering a move for Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White as a replacement for De Bruyne.

A number of targets are being considered, including Wirtz, with a move unlikely to be made until Hugo Viana is fully underway as director of football, although City could also select Phil Foden as a direct successor to the Belgium international.

Should Gibbs-White be chosen, however, there is a feeling the Nottingham Forest star could command a fee of around £50m.

"Sensational" Gibbs-White enjoying impressive campaign

The attacking midfielder made an instant impact for Forest in the Premier League, amassing five goals and eight assists in his debut campaign with the Tricky Trees, but the current campaign is on course to be his best to date.

With seven games left to play, the Englishman has 14 goal contributions to his name, playing an integral role for Nuno’s side, who are still on course to unexpectedly qualify for the Champions League.

Lauded as “sensational” by members of the media, there are clear signs Gibbs-White could now be entering his prime, although there are doubts over whether he would be a suitable replacement for De Bruyne, given that he remains unproven at the very highest level.

Wirtz, on the other hand, experienced winning the Bundesliga title with Bayer Leverkusen last season, while he has also impressed in the Champions League this term, with six goals and one assist to his name in nine matches.

Worth way more than Williams: Arsenal hit gold on "monster" Emery signing

This season continues to go from bad to worse for Arsenal.

After almost four months on the sidelines, Bukayo Saka made his long-awaited return to action in the Premier League game against Fulham on Tuesday night and even scored the Gunners’ winning goal.

However, what should have been a brilliant night was soured by Gabriel Magalhaes coming off early on in proceedings with a hamstring injury that has since needed surgery and has made him the latest player who will miss the rest of the campaign.

However, while the mood around the club is undoubtedly grim at the moment, there were some positive developments about the club’s pursuit of Nico Williams, a player who’d seriously improve their chances of finally getting over the line next season.

That said, he’d have to step up in a big way to see his valuation surpass that of a Unai Emery signing who’s been compared to Thierry Henry.

The latest on Nico Williams and Arsenal

On Wednesday afternoon, less than 24 hours after the club’s win over Fulham, the Guardian’s Ed Aarons revealed that Arsenal’s pursuit of Williams was still very much alive and that it was being led by new Sporting Director Andrea Berta.

Athletic Bilbao'sNicoWilliamscelebrates scoring their third goal

In fact, he claimed that in “one of his first acts” at the club, the Italian had “held talks” with the player’s representatives in a bid to convince him to come to North London in the summer.

However, while it’s encouraging to hear that talks are happening, it would still require a significant investment from the Gunners, as on top of paying the player’s £48m release clause, they would have to place him “in their highest bracket of earners,” per journalist Sam Dean.

With that said, it would still likely be an investment worth making.

We say this as, since the start of last season, the sensational Spaniard has scored 17 goals and provided 25 assists in 75 appearances, which works out to a brilliant average of a goal involvement every 1.78 games, and on top of that, he’s also won the Copa del Rey and European Championships.

Williams’ recent form

Season

23/24

24/25

Appearances

37

38

Minutes

2729′

2689′

Goals

8

9

Assists

18

7

Goal Involvements per Match

0.68

0.36

Minutes per Goal Involvements

104.96′

168.06′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

Yet, if he does move to Arsenal this summer, he will still be worth considerably less than one of his new teammates, someone signed by former manager Unai Emery.

The Arsenal star worth millions more than Williams

While his time in North London was not successful, Emery did at least make a couple of important signings for Arsenal, including one of a teenager in Brazil that practically nobody had heard of at the time: Gabriel Martinelli.

Yes, the former Ituano gem joined Arsenal in a £6m deal in the summer of 2019, and while he barely played under the Gunners’ former boss, he has since developed into an important member of the squad.

In fact, he is deemed to be so crucial that the CIES Football Observatory value him at an astounding €101m, which converts to about £85m, or a whopping £37m more than the North Londoners might pay for Williams in the summer.

Now, we know there will be some of you out there who think this is an absurd valuation – he’s being outperformed by the Spaniard, after all – but there are likely a few reasons why it is as high as it is.

The first is the simple fact that, at 23 years old, he still has a long time left in his career and plenty of time to further develop despite already having so much first-team experience in a top-five league.

The second reason is that while he can sometimes be frustrating, the Brazilian “monster”, as journalist Mark Mann-Bryans described him, has a pretty good record for a winger.

For example, in 213 appearances for the North Londoners, he has scored 48 goals and provided 27 assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.84 games, which isn’t bad considering he was 18 years old when he joined the club.

Martinelli’s Arsenal career

Season

Games

Goals

Assists

Goal Involvements per Match

19/20

26

10

4

0.53

20/21

22

2

2

0.18

21/22

36

6

7

0.36

22/23

46

15

6

0.45

23/24

44

8

5

0.29

24/25

39

7

5

0.30

All Stats via Transfermarkt

Moreover, the Guarulhos-born ace is somewhat versatile and can play off the right or even down the middle at times, leading talkSPORT pundit Gabby Agbonlahor to compare him to the iconic Henry.

Ultimately, if Arsenal can sign Williams, then they absolutely should.

Still, as his valuation and track record demonstrates, the fans shouldn’t forget that in Martinelli they already have a brilliant winger and someone who could still get better.

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Hazlewood cleared of injury, Abbott out of first Test after hamstring scans

Both fast bowlers went for hamstring scans after leaving the field post lunch on day three of New South Wales’ Sheffield Shield game at the SCG

Andrew McGlashan and Alex Malcolm12-Nov-2025

Josh Hazlewood left the field with hamstring tightness on day three•Getty Images

The moment Josh Hazlewood told Steven Smith he felt some tightness in his right hamstring on the third day at the SCG thoughts went to the first Ashes Test in Perth. Smith, who will captain Australia next week, told his fast bowler to take no risks and head to the dressing room with subsequent scans clearing him of injury in a major relief to the home side’s plans, although his final build-up will now be a close watch.However, fellow Ashes Test squad member Sean Abbott has been withdrawn from the squad after scans on his left hamstring confirmed a moderate grade strain.The pair did not appear after lunch on day three, having left the field during the first session, and did not bat in New South Wales’ second innings as they collapsed to a 300-run defeat.”He [Hazlewood] literally bowled his last ball and I looked at him and said, ‘how are you going?’ Smith said, “He’s like, ‘I’m a bit tight in my hamstring.’ I was like, ‘Get off the field. Disappear. You’re done, go and figure it out.’ Fortunately, it was just some tightness and he’s good.”It’s hard when you’re playing in a game and you want to try and do well for your state as well. Then you’ve got an eye on, obviously, next week. Didn’t know about Josh [being cleared] while we were still bowling…I was like, I just don’t want Starcy [Mitchell Starc] to get injured. I was like, [Scott] Boland, you can bowl one spell and be done as well. That’ll be good.”Related

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A Cricket Australia (CA) statement said: “Hazlewood left the field late in Victoria’s innings at the SCG today reporting tightness in his right hamstring. He underwent precautionary scans which have cleared him of muscle strain. He will train as planned in the lead up to the first Test in Perth.”Sean Abbott also left the field having reported left hamstring soreness. Scans confirmed a moderate grade hamstring injury. He will not be available for selection for the first Test match in Perth and his return to play plan will be developed over the coming weeks.”Australia captain Pat Cummins, who has already been ruled out of the opening Test as he recovers from a back injury, had provided the first comments on the evolving situation while he was speaking at a CA promotional event near the SCG. Cummins had briefly been at the ground to catch up with the physios, only to find out they were being kept busy.”There was a bit happening there for an hour or so,” Cummins said. “I think Josh, he was pretty chipper when he got out [of the scans], so hopefully he should be fine…obviously a week away from the Test series kind of always there on the side of caution.”I think he was a little bit worried, wanting to get it checked out. When he got back, again I only saw him briefly, but I think he was a bit happier afterwards than he was going into the scans.”Hazlewood, who bowled superbly in the recent white-ball series against India, had claimed his first wicket of the match when he removed Sam Harper.Abbott, who has been named as one of Australia’s back-up quicks for the first Test, had ripped through Victoria’s middle-order to have figures of 4 for 18.”It’s rough for Sean, who’s obviously worked really hard the last few years to get in the position in the squad again,” Smith said. “Injuries happen, so I’m feeling for him right now.”Sean Abbott has been withdrawn from Australia’s first Test squad with a hamstring injury•Getty Images

Hazlewood bowled 18 overs in Victoria’s first innings and nine in the second, while Abbott bowled 19 in the first innings and nine in the second. But both men have bowled on all three days after New South Wales only batted for 49.5 overs on day two when they were bowled out for 128, which gave Hazlewood, Abbott and the other New South Wales and Australia Test quick Starc very little time to recover.From Australia’s likely Test attack for Perth, Starc, Boland and Nathan Lyon have also been involved in the Shield game at the SCG. The ongoing round of games has also seen Cameron Green return to action with the ball, while Beau Webster took eight wickets in the match for Tasmania.Brendan Doggett, the uncapped South Australia quick, is the other pace bowler in the 15-man squad. He took 5 for 66 against Tasmania in Hobart.”He’s been bowling really well the last couple of games, from what I’ve seen,” Cummins said. “You haven’t played a lot against or with Doggy. He missed the first game or two, but he’s come back really strongly. He’s really well placed to be vying for a spot in that first Test. It’s always nice having a squad full of people in form, and he certainly is one of those guys.”If a replacement for Abbott is needed for the first Test squad, Michael Neser would likely head the queue but beyond that, the depth of Australia’s reserves would be really tested.Meanwhile, Cummins said he operated at around 90% during a stint in the nets at the SCG on Tuesday as he continued to ramp up his return to bowling with an eye on pushing for the Brisbane Test, although he conceded there was still significant ground to make up. He will travel to join the squad in Perth on Sunday.”[The Gabba] is what we’re building towards,” Cummins said. “Hopefully by Perth, I’m up there near 100%, and then see where we’re at. It’s still pretty aggressive, going from nothing to trying to get ready for a Test match in four weeks. But we’re going to give it a good shot.”

Contratações do Vitória: veja quem fica e quem sai do time em 2026

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De olho em 2026, o Vitória já se movimenta no mercado de transferências para repor algumas saídas e melhorar o elenco em busca de mais tranquilidade na próxima temporada. Por isso, o Lance! lista abaixo tudo o que você precisa saber sobre a situação dos atletas no elenco rubro-negro. Esta matéria está em constante atualização.

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Vale lembrar que o Vitória estreia no dia 10 ou 11 de janeiro em jogo contra o Atlético de Alagoinhas, válido pela primeira rodada do Campeonato Baiano, no Barradão. O Leão também disputa a Copa do Nordeste, Copa do Brasil e Campeonato Brasileiro em 2026.

Contratações do VitóriaAinda nenhuma oficializadaQuem renova?

O Vitória ainda não confirmou nenhuma renovação dos atletas do atual elenco, mas o presidente Fábio Mota já demonstrou interesse em manter peças-chave da equipe que estão na reta final do contrato de empréstimo, como o goleiro Thiago Couto, o zagueiro Lucas Halter, os laterais Ramon e Jamerson, o meia Baralhas e o atacante Erick.

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Jogadores com contrato até dezembro de 2025:

Raúl Cáceres em treino do Vitória; clube está de olho em contratações para a posição (Foto: Victor Ferreira / EC Vitória)

Neste momento, três jogadores têm saída confirmada do Vitória, de acordo com Fábio Mota: Carlinhos, Willian Oliveira e Raúl Cáceres, esses dois últimos por motivos pessoais.

Léo Naldi em ação contra o Palmeiras, pelo Brasileirão; Vitória não confirmou retorno do atleta e busca contratações para a posição (Foto: Victor Ferreira / EC Vitória)

Outra incógnita é em relação aos atletas emprestados, já que alguns podem seguir nos atuais clubes, enquanto outros retornam à Toca do Leão depois de encerrarem o contrato de empréstimo que vai até dezembro de 2025. A tendência é que eles sejam testados nas rodadas iniciais do Campeonato Baiano.

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Contrato

Lucas Arcanjo

Goleiro

Dezembro 2028

Yuri Sena

Goleiro

Dezembro 2026

Alexandre Fintelman

Goleiro

Dezembro 2027

Camutanga

Zagueiro

Dezembro 2026

Zé Marcos

Zagueiro

Dezembro 2027

Edu

Zagueiro

Dezembro 2028

Neris

Zagueiro

Dezembro 2026

Claudinho

Lateral-direito

Dezembro 2027

Ronald

Volante

Julho 2028

Pepê

Volante

Dezembro 2027

Dudu

Volante

Dezembro 2026

Rúben Ismael

Volante

Dezembro 2028

Rúben Rodrigues

Meia

Junho 2027

Matheuzinho

Meia

Dezembro 2028

Felipe Cardoso

Meia

Dezembro 2026

Cantalapiedra

Atacante

Junho 2027

Lucas Braga

Atacante

Dezembro 2027

Fabri

Atacante

Dezembro 2026

Renzo López

Atacante

Julho 2026

Kike Saverio

Atacante

Junho 2026

Renato Kayzer

Atacante

Março 2027

Tudo sobre

Futebol NacionalMercado da BolaVitória

Thomas Frank poised to be without "strong" Tottenham star for North London derby

Tottenham Hotspur are poised to be without a big name for their crucial North London derby clash against Arsenal on November 23, with the player’s return from injury up in the air.

Spurs take on Mikel Arteta’s Premier League title frontrunners in a mouth-watering clash at the Emirates Stadium following the conclusion of this latest international break, and the stakes are high for both sides.

Thomas Frank is attempting to guide the Lilywhites to a top four finish and build upon Ange Postecoglou’s final season in charge with another piece of major silverware, but concerns have surrounded their general creativity in open play and plethora of key absentees.

While Arsenal have also struggled to keep their star attackers fit this campaign, with Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, Noni Madueke, Martin Odegaard and Viktor Gyokeres all racing to be fit for Tottenham, Frank’s extensive injury list is much longer.

Tottenham absentee list

Problem

Estimated return date (subject to change)

Dejan Kulusevski

Knee

29/11/2025

James Maddison

ACL

01/06/2026

Radu Dragusin

Knee

22/11/2025

Ben Davies

Thigh

23/11/2025

Kota Takai

Ankle/Foot

23/11/2025

Mohammed Kudus

Knock

23/11/2025

Randal Kolo Muani

Jaw

23/11/2025

Yves Bissouma

Ankle/Foot

23/11/2025

Lucas Bergvall

Concussion

23/11/2025

Dominic Solanke

Ankle

23/11/2025

Archie Gray

Calf/Shin/Heel

23/11/2025

Cristian Romero

Other

23/11/2025

via Premier Injuries

Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison are among the forwards who’ve been absent with serious injuries, and the latter is not expected to return until midway through 2026.

Summer signing Randal Kolo Muani was the latest to be sidelined after fracturing his jaw in their 2-2 draw with Man United last weekend. While the Frenchman, who only just returned to full fitness after a dead leg, won’t require surgery, it remains to be seen how long he’ll be out for or if he’ll be able to wear a mask and play against Arsenal.

Star winger Mohammed Kudus was ‘touch and go’ to face Man United and ultimately left out by Frank, with the 25-year-old also not selected for Ghana’s upcoming friendlies against Japan and South Korea.

There is every chance that Kudus, who’s stood out as their most in-form attacker this term, will recover from his knock in time to play against Arsenal, but the same cannot be said for striker Dominic Solanke.

Tottenham poised to be without Dominic Solanke for North London derby

The Englishman has yet to start a competitive game since Frank’s arrival at the club, playing just 49 minutes in total across all competitions, and his once minor ankle issue is taking a while to fully recover from.

Solanke was forced to undergo small surgery on his ankle problem and the initial prognosis was that he’d be back fairly soon. However, the 28-year-old still hasn’t played a single minute since Tottenham’s 2-0 win away to Man City right at the start of the season.

Recently, when asked if Solanke would be back on the field before the end of 2025, Frank’s response wasn’t that convincing at all.

Standard Sport have now reported that Solanke returning from injury to face Arsenal is looking “unlikely”, and they could even welcome back defender Radu Dragusin before him.

The Romanian is set to feature in a behind-closed-doors friendly during the international break, which will be his first piece of action since rupturing his ACL back in January. Some reports suggest that Tottenham could even sell Solanke when the window reopens, with Frank viewing the forward as “expendable” amid repeated links to former Brentford star Ivan Toney.

Right now, Frank has just Mathys Tel, who can’t participate in the Champions League after being left out of their 22-man squad, and Richarlison to select from as their readily available striker options.

If injury were to befall Richarlison, like it did for large periods of last season, Frank would be in serious trouble.

Solanke finished 24/25 as the club’s second top scorer behind Brennan Johnson, and they’ve missed both his poacher’s instinct and general link-up play.