Whatever happens this summer in terms of incomings at Manchester United, there is likely to be nothing more crucial than the news surrounding Bruno Fernandes, with the talismanic skipper outlining his desire to stay put at Old Trafford.

The 30-year-old – who helped steer Portugal to Nations League glory on Sunday night – has opted to shun the Saudi riches in order to remain a central figure under Ruben Amorim, having reportedly turned down an offer of around €25m-per-season from Al-Hilal.

While there could be question marks over where the former Sporting CP star will fit in Amorim’s 3-4-3 system in the long-term, having frequently flitted between operating as a central midfielder or as a number ten to date, there’s no denying that United remain a better side with him in it.

Indeed, his tally of 38 goals and assists in all competitions last term says it all, with that return far exceeding anyone else in Amorim’s ranks, as Amad and Alejandro Garnacho finished in second place with 21 goal involvements a piece.

Season after season, Fernandes delivers the goods, with now the time to finally build a side around him that can compete for the top honours. Thankfully, it looks like that work is already underway..

Latest on Man Utd's summer rebuild

Matheus Cunha is already in the door, following his £62.5m switch from Wolverhampton Wanderers, while Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo appears next on the agenda, with a second bid for the 25-year-old seemingly in the works.

Thomas Frank’s expected move to Tottenham Hotspur could reportedly put a spanner in the works regarding that deal, albeit with it having previously been reported that United were the winger’s preferred destination – fresh off the back of scoring 20 Premier League goals in 2024/25.

The final piece of the attacking jigsaw could well be completed with the addition of Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres, with reports in Spain suggesting that INEOS are ready to make an offer for the prolific Swede.

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Indeed, the report outlines that United are ready to go ‘all out’ for the signing of the 27-year-old, with the club willing to lodge a bid of around £60m in order to get their man.

The belief is that discussions are at an advanced stage, with hope at Old Trafford that an ‘understanding’ between the two clubs can be reached soon, amid prior reports that Gyokeres himself is open to making the switch.

The chance for Amorim to reunite with his 6 foot 2 goal machine appears to good to ignore, not least after missing out on new Chelsea man Liam Delap, with it a frightening prospect to see how Gyokeres could flourish with Fernandes behind him.

Why Gyokeres could thrive with Bruno Fernandes

Lauded as the “hottest striker in Europe” by ESPN’s Mark Ogden, Gyokeres is perhaps already reaching world-class status, having notably scored 97 goals in just 102 games in Lisbon – including six goals in eight Champions League appearances last time out.

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That said, the quality of the Portuguese top-flight ensures that doubts remain over whether he truly is in the top bracket of centre-forwards in Europe, with the Primeira Liga said to be just the seventh best league in the world, behind the Brazilian Serie A.

It would then be interesting to see if a player who never played in the Premier League during his time at Brighton and Hove Albion – and Coventry City – can translate his recent heroics in England’s top tier, with United in dire need of a success story following Rasmus Hojlund’s return of just four league goals in 2024/25.

Well, fear not – enter, Fernandes.

If anyone is to help Gyokeres to thrive, it is the Red Devils skipper, with the experienced playmaker possessing a magic ability to unlock a defence, having put together a highlight reel of assists or chances created in recent years.

Indeed, Fernandes ended last term as the player to have laid on the most chances in the Premier League for the third season in a row, having also created 16 ”big chances’ – despite registering ‘just’ ten assists.

In essence, the midfield genius – who also averaged 2.5 key passes per game – is in need of someone to finish off the plethora of opportunities he conjures up, with Gyokeres perhaps the perfect fit.

Most chances created in PL – 24/25

Player

Chances created

Bruno Fernandes

91

Cole Palmer

89

Mohamed Salah

89

Enzo Fernandez

79

Bryan Mbeumo

70

Dejan Kulusevski

65

Martin Odegaard

63

Mikel Damsgaard

63

Leif Davis

61

Yourie Tielemans

61

Stats via Fotmob

An “insane” ball-striker, as per analyst Ben Mattinson, the one-time St Pauli marksman netted a mammoth haul of 39 league goals last term, having scored once every 72 minutes with a goal conversion rate of 28%.

While he did miss 23 ‘big chances’, Gyokeres would almost be supplied with an endless stream of openings to convert by Fernandes, with the latter man notably teeing up Amad to header home with a delightful dinked pass against Aston Villa on the final day.

You can only imagine the success that Gyokeres would enjoy if supplied with similar service, with combining with Fernandes a way to truly elevate his game, thus confirming that ‘world-class’ status.

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Posts ByDan Emery Jun 9, 2025

Turning their attention away from a historic League One season and towards the summer transfer window, Birmingham City and Tom Wagner are now reportedly eyeing the chance to sign an Aston Villa gem.

Wagner wants to rekindle Aston Villa rivalry

Whilst attempting to swoop in and sign one of Unai Emery’s most impressive young talents, Wagner has made it no secret that he’s hoping to see Birmingham reignite their rivalry with the Villans in the near future. Back in the Championship and one step away from their rivals in the Premier League, the Blues chief is seemingly desperate to bridge that gap and commence a true battle.

Wagner told reporters earlier this month: “It’s absolutely a top objective. It’s the right rivalry for Birmingham, the right derby for English football, and the right way for each club to achieve its highest potential is by rekindling a rivalry that’s been dormant for too long. When I speak to the true fans on both sides of that rivalry, I get the same reaction, which is that they’d love to see it.”

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Unlike many clubs in the past, Birmingham won’t just be looking to survive in the Championship at the first time of asking. Alongside Wrexham, they’ll have their sights on causing a few upsets and pushing beyond the dropzone and perhaps even mid-table mediocrity if they get their summer business right.

That is the big unanswered question, of course. Just who could Birmingham sign this summer fresh from League One promotion? A number of names have already been mentioned, from Kwame Poku all the way to Torino’s Che Adams who played for the club between 2016 and 2019.

Meanwhile, Birmingham may not be afraid to steal some headlines by signing a rival star when the summer transfer window swings open in what would make an immediate statement.

Birmingham eyeing Louie Barry deal

According to GiveMeSport, Wagner and Birmingham have held internal talks about signing Louie Barry from Aston Villa this summer. The young winger will be allowed to leave the Villans on loan in the coming months after having his spell at Hull City cut short courtesy of injury last time out, and a move to St. Andrew’s could yet become an unexpected opportunity.

Although his loan spell at Hull ended in frustration, Barry’s form at Stockport County during the first-half of the season initially caught the eye enough to earn a move into the Championship. Scoring 16 goals in 28 games for the League One side, the 21-year-old earned the praise of football talent scout Jacek Kulig, who described his form as “superb” in December.

Following what turned into a mixed season, Barry has a decision to make in the coming months. If his League One numbers are anything to go by, then the Villa gem could now be ready for the Championship and potentially Birmingham this summer.

Newcastle United are probing on the market this summer, but could also be prompted to consider whether to sell one of their key stars, according to a report.

Newcastle United look for quality over quantity in the market

PIF are expected to spend this summer as long as they don’t put themselves at risk of interference from FFP, and it appears that Eddie Howe will go down the route of streamlining his squad to ensure there is an element of quality control in the North East.

Beginning in earnest, Newcastle are pursuing a deal for Liverpool striker Jota in an effort to strengthen their forward line. Meanwhile, Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford could also be an appealing name for the club to consider.

Talks are set to take place over a move for Brighton & Hove Albion star Joao Pedro. He has become a central target for the Magpies this window, and could cost in the region of £60 million.

Despite relative silence from his camp, Pedro has recently sent a cryptic message on Instagram to friend Reinier Jesus, which read ‘just say the time and where’ on his official account, potentially offering an insight into his movement over the next few weeks.

Callum Wilson is set to leave the club after failing to come to an agreement on terms, which has made finding a replacement an important priority for Howe.

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Pedro appears to be the most likely solution at this point. Nevertheless, nothing is signed and sealed yet, meaning others could come to the forefront over the next few weeks and months.

The excitement of acquiring new talent is one thing, but Newcastle could now be met with a significant proposal involving one of their star men.

Newcastle set to receive Joelinton proposal

According to TBR, Newcastle midfielder Joelinton is wanted by several Saudi Pro League clubs, including Al-Hilal, who are now plotting submitting a ‘significant’ proposal to try and sign the Brazil international.

Of course, clubs in the Gulf region are controlled by the Magpies’ owners PIF, which could make for an intriguing set of circumstances when it comes to the future of the £150,000 per week earner.

Joelinton’s record at Newcastle – why has he been such a successful signing?

Appearances

221

Goals

29

Assists

21

Trophies

EFL Cup x1

Transitioning from a forward into a box-to-box midfielder under Howe, Joelinton has previously been dubbed “incredible” by the former Bournemouth boss and has become one of the first names on the teamsheet due to his combative nature.

Making his presence known, the former Hoffenheim man won 166 duels in the Premier League last term alongside making 149 recoveries.

Newcastle seem keen to avoid a sale at all costs, though they are under the same strain as everyone else when it comes to satisfying FFP regulations, offering some leeway in their mission to come out of the transfer window with a stronger squad than they entered with.

It’s been a very busy summer so far from Birmingham City’s perspective as they aim to take the Championship by storm.

Every passing day seems to throw up a new, tantalising transfer rumour for the Blues masses to feast on, with the likes of Kwame Poku, Demarai Gray, and many others potentially tipped to make the move to St. Andrew’s a constant topic of conversation.

Of course, whoever does enter the building this hectic summer will have to complement what Chris Davies already has at his disposal, with the title-winning boss no doubt confident that a large portion of his troops can take to their new division swimmingly.

In particular, Jay Stansfield will be raring to go after promotion, with the 22-year-old sharpshooter already proving himself to be a reliable finisher in the Championship previously, away from just causing plenty of havoc in League One.

Stansfield's importance next season

After all, the ex-Fulham marksman didn’t just fluke his bumper 19-goal haul in league action last season.

Rather, the explosive 22-year-old routinely found himself in the right place at the right time to power home an opportunity, with only a mere 29 touches averaged per league clash, despite ending his successful campaign with his goal tally deep into the double digits.

The Blues hotshot is unlikely to be a one-season wonder, too, with Stansfield actually bagging 12 strikes the campaign prior for Birmingham when he was just a wide-eyed loanee, even as his team succumbed to relegation in the unforgiving Championship.

Now, with his team’s collective confidence at sky-high, Stansfield will pray he can show off this same goalscoring prowess towards the top-end of the division.

He could be boosted in the goalscoring department by this brand-new acquisition entering the assured ranks, with the new striker target in question potentially the second coming of the Blues number 28 if all goes to plan.

Birmingham eyeing deal for their next Stansfield

Even when plying their trade in League One momentarily, Birmingham still managed to pull off some statement deals, as seen in Stansfield leaving Craven Cottage behind for a permanent third-tier stay.

In the here and now, another statement deal similar to this capture could soon be on the cards, with Graeme Bailey exclusively revealing that Birmingham have an interest in signing Leeds United gem Joe Gelhardt, off the back of the Whites wanting to get rid after sealing promotion themselves up to the Premier League.

Wrexham is also noted as a fellow Championship club keen on Gelhardt – away from unnamed interest also being speculated from other second-tier outfits – with a loan deal the likely move on the table to satisfy all parties, considering he still has two years left on his Elland Road deal.

Despite experiencing a topsy-turvy few years on the books of the West Yorkshire outfit, Gelhardt would link up with Davies and Co with the same glowing reputation Stansfield possessed, having once been viewed as the next best thing coming out of Elland Road when they were regularly competing in the big time.

Indeed, the now 23-year-old centre-forward would collect an impressive two strikes and six assists for the Whites in the Premier League, with Jamie Carragher even once labelling the Liverpool-born ace as “special” off the back of his raw ability.

Leeds

57

3

7

Leeds U21s

31

20

6

Wigan Athletic

21

1

0

Sunderland

20

3

3

Hull City

20

5

0

Wigan U21s

5

5

0

Stansfield was equally highly thought of when impressing in youth circles at Fulham – as seen in his blistering 38 strikes at youth level – but, much like Gelhardt will now be faced with, he had to spread his wings away from his boyhood side eventually, resulting in him now becoming Birmingham’s main man up top.

Based on the current Leeds man’s promising Championship numbers above with Hull City, he could soon be held in the same glowing light as Stansfield at St. Andrew’s, with his then Tigers boss Ruben Selles even heralding him as “exceptional” after helping his loan employers beat the drop.

With both Stansfield and Gelhardt at his disposal, Davies will be delighted with the options he could soon possess in attack, with the attacking duo perhaps what Birmingham need to push on even more after obliterating their League One competition with ease.

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Already impressed by his performance at the Club World Cup, Ruben Amorim could now reportedly urge INEOS to sign a midfield star for Manchester United who has a release clause worth a hefty £85m.

Man Utd discover brutal first 5 Premier League games

As the transfer window rumbles on, the big talking point this week has come away from potential incomings and to next season’s Premier League fixtures. Officially announced Wednesday morning, Manchester United have now discovered their fate alongside the rest of their rivals and, for the Red Devils, that fate may well be a start full of frustration.

Manchester United vs Arsenal

17/08/2025

Fulham vs Manchester United

23/08/2025

Manchester United vs Burnley

30/08/2025

Manchester City vs Manchester United

13/09/2025

Manchester United vs Chelsea

20/09/2025

On paper, Amorim’s side have the toughest Premier League start, but that could quickly turn into a positive if they manage to navigate what would be an excellent start.

The pressure will certainly be on Amorim to finally get the best out of his side too. INEOS have already backed him by signing Matheus Cunha and it looks as though they’re likely to do the same by signing Bryan Mbuemo. But even then, the incomings may be far from over.

The likes of Hugo Ekitike have also found themselves in the headlines as of late. The Eintracht Frankfurt striker has been linked with Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United already this summer and he could yet have a crucial decision to make.

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Whilst Frankfurt value the Frenchman at around €100m (£85m), recent reports have claimed that United are open to finding a way past this price tag by offering Joshua Zirkzee or Rasmus Hojlund in a player-plus-cash swap deal.

Landing Ekitike for a cheaper transfer fee could then open the door for another fresh face and this time a midfielder who is already impressing on the big stage this summer.

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ByCharlie Smith Jun 13, 2025 Amorim could urge Man Utd to sign Richard Rios

According to GiveMeSport, Amorim could now urge Manchester United chiefs to sign Richard Rios this summer after being left impressed by his Club World Cup form. The Red Devils have already sent scouts to watch the Palmeiras midfielder and are continuing to track his progress ahead of a potential move in the coming months.

The deal, like Ekitike, Cunha and Mbeumo, won’t come cheap, however, amid reports that Rios has a release clause worth as much as £85m in his current Palmeiras deal.

A player who analyst Ben Mattinson described as a “ball-carrying machine” in 2023, Rios has only improved ever since and is now ready for the European move that Manchester United could offer him this summer.

Glasgow Rangers supporters still do not know who the club’s next head coach is going to be, as Ibrox chiefs continue to run the rule over a number of candidates.

It has been reported by the Daily Mail that Andrew Cavenagh is set for face-to-face talks, alongside Kevin Thelwell and Patrick Stewart at Rangers, with managers, including Davide Ancelotti and Russell Martin.

The same report, though, added that Steven Gerrard, who won the Scottish Premiership with the Gers in the 2020/21 campaign, is still in the running for the job.

Part of what made the English manager’s team at Ibrox so successful was that they were able to successfully recruit domestic talent, including central midfielder Glen Kamara.

Why Glen Kamara was a key signing for Steven Gerrard

The Finland international, who came through the Arsenal academy, made his big breakthrough in senior football with Dundee in the Premiership, playing 64 games in 18 months at Dens Park.

Rangers swooped to sign him for £50k in the January window of 2019, as his deal was due to expire that summer, and it was a move that was later described as the “steal of the century” by Scott Arfield.

His 64 appearances for Dundee meant that Gerrard was bringing in a proven Premiership performer who could hit the ground running in the Premiership as an impact signing, rather than needing time as either a young player or as someone who was not used to Scottish football.

Kamara went on to play 193 games for Rangers, scoring nine goals and providing 11 assists, before being sold to Leeds United for £5m in 2023.

He was a key signing for Gerrard, though, because his ability to hit the ground running allowed him to be a star from the get-go, and he went on to play a significant role in the title-winning side, starting 28 of the 38 league games and completing 91% of his attempted passes.

Rangers, and potentially Gerrard if he gets the job for a second time, could repeat that masterclass by swooping for another Dundee star this summer.

Rangers have held talks to sign Dundee star

According to Daily Record reporter Scott Burns, Rangers have held talks over a deal to sign Dundee right wing-back Josh Mulligan, who is out of contract, in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The report claims that the Light Blues have explored a move to land the 22-year-old ace, although they face competition from Charlton Athletic, but have put talks on hold for now until their managerial pursuit comes to an end.

Whilst talks are on hold for the defender, who was dubbed a future Scotland international by Kai Watson, the club should look to pursue this further as soon as possible because he could be Glen Kamara 2.0.

Why Josh Mulligan could be Glen Kamara 2.0

The versatile Scottish ace, who can play as a wing-back or as a central midfielder, as outlined by Watson, could be a repeat of the masterclass that Gerrard played with Kamara because he is a proven Premiership performer with time ahead of him to develop and improve.

Mulligan, who was described as a “Rolls-Royce” and as a “powerful” player by Simon Ferry, is only 22 but has already racked up 122 appearances for Dundee, 63 of which have come in the Premiership.

24/25 Premiership	Josh Mulligan
Appearances	34
Big chances created	9
Assists	5
Tackles + interceptions per game	2.5
Duels won per game	5.2
Error led to shot	0
Error led to goal	0
Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the young defender offered solid defensive work, with zero errors that directly led to shots or goals, whilst also providing a creative outlet down the right flank.

These statistics show that Mulligan is a solid and reliable Premiership performer, despite his young age, in both his work in and out of possession, as he can step in to make vital tackles and interceptions without making many mistakes, and has an impact in the final third.

This means that the Ranger transfer target could follow in Kamara’s footsteps as a proven Premiership star coming to Ibrox directly from Dundee to hit the ground running in Glasgow.

Mulligan could make an instant impact on the pitch for the next manager, given his performances for Dundee in the division this season, and that is why he could be an excellent, and bargain on a free transfer, addition to the squad.

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After failing to negotiate a new contract with Abdoulaye Doucoure, Everton watched on as the Frenchman departed and are now reportedly eyeing his potential replacement in a £25m deal.

Everton must replace Doucoure this summer

For all his experience and important moments to match, Everton failed to offer Doucoure a new deal in Merseyside in a decision that they’ll be desperate not to regret this time next season. The veteran midfielder spent five years at the club in a spell full of ups and downs, from being dropped by Frank Lampard to thriving under Sean Dyche and David Moyes.

Doucoure was the man who scored the goal to keep Everton afloat in the 2022/23 campaign and he was the man who battled Curtis Jones in what proved to be his final-ever Merseyside derby. A Frenchman turned scouse, there is no denying that replacing his influence will not be a simple task for the Toffees this summer.

Saying goodbye to the fans, Doucoure said at the end of last season: “Hi Evertonians – just wanted to share this message with you that I’m going to leave the football club at the end of the season.

“After five wonderful years, my time at Everton came to an end. Everton means a lot for me. Obviously the past five years it’s been hard but I will always remember my time as a dream for me, to play for Everton Football Club.”

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It’s a decision that Everton must now justify by signing a younger, improved model this summer and, to their credit, they could do exactly that by welcoming one particular midfield star.

Everton eyeing £25m Yarmolyuk deal

As reported by Caught Offside, Everton are now eyeing a summer swoop to sign Yegor Yarmolyuk from Brentford, who value their young midfielder at just €30m (£25m).

The 21-year-old is represented by the same agent as Everton left-back Vitalii Mykolenko and could now join his countryman in Merseyside to hand Moyes his Doucoure replacement. Joining Everton in pursuit of his signature, however, are Tottenham Hotspur, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Leeds United.

Premier League stats per 90 24/25 (via FBref)

Yegor Yarmolyuk

Abdoulaye Doucoure

Minutes

1,450

2,564

Progressive Passes

3.91

2.88

Tackles Won

1.74

0.98

Ball Recoveries

7.02

5.26

More robust than Doucoure whilst also outperforming the Frenchman when progressing play last season, there’s even an argument to be made that Yarmolyuk would be an upgrade on the former Everton man rather than just a replacement.

At just 21 years old, the Ukraine-born midfielder has already found himself at the centre of praise and that includes from Ben Mattinson. The analyst dubbed the Brentford star “underrated” and “physical” back in January and could now watch on as he swaps West London for Merseyside.

In a deal that would reportedly cost around £25m, the Toffees could commence their summer business with an absolute bargain whilst instantly replacing Doucoure in the process.

The promotion-winning campaign for Leeds United will live long in the memory of all supporters, taking them back to the Premier League after a two-year absence.

Daniel Farke was the man to lead the Whites back to the top division of English football, finishing top of the table and subsequently claiming the title on goal difference ahead of Burnley.

Such a feat was made all the more impressive after the sales of Archie Gray, Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter, who all departed after the play-off final defeat the year prior.

However, such departures allowed the likes of Ao Tanaka to move to Elland Road, securing his place at the heart of the side and subsequently being named in the division’s Team of the Season.

The Japanese international could be about to be partnered by another star at the base of the side, as the hierarchy looks to strengthen the side ahead of their top-flight return.

The latest on Leeds’ hunt for new signings this summer

Over the last couple of days, Leeds have ramped up their efforts in the market as they look to provide Farke with the tools to survive next campaign.

His side have had an offer for Udinese centre-back Jaka Bijol rejected, but it appears as though they are set to return with an improved offer to force the Italian side into selling the 26-year-old.

However, he may not be the only summer arrival from Serie A, with Leeds also having keen interest in a deal to sign Juventus star Douglas Luiz, according to GIVEMESPORT.

The report claims that the Brazilian international has been offered to the Whites this summer, with the hierarchy set to schedule talks over a potential deal with the Old Lady.

It also states that he could be sold for just £30m this summer, only 12 months on from his move from Aston Villa, after making just 26 appearances across all competitions throughout 2024/25.

Why Luiz could be Farke’s very own Phillips

Midfielder Kalvin Phillips was a crucial part of the Leeds squad back in their previous stint in the Premier League, operating at the heart of the side after emerging through the club’s academy.

The 29-year-old spent 12 years with the Whites in Yorkshire, amassing a total of 234 appearances in the first team, being a mainstay in the side and enjoying a huge rise to stardom under Marcelo Bielsa.

Such form led to the midfielder being named in Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the European Championships back in 2020, as they fell at the final hurdle and lost in the final to Italy.

However, he would depart his boyhood side in a £45m deal to join Manchester City – a move that would subsequently ruin his career, only featuring 31 times in the last three years, with multiple loan spells at West Ham and Ipswich Town.

From a business perspective, it was great business for the club, with such funds allowing Farke to potentially have his own version of the Englishman in the form of Luiz.

When comparing their respective stats from Phillips’ final season at Elland Road, the former Villa star massively outperformed him, showcasing why he would be the manager’s own version of the fan favourite.

The Brazilian, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by one analyst, registered more goals and assists, having the attacking threat to contribute to the Whites’ ambitions within the final third.

Games played

34

20

Goals & assists

5

1

Pass accuracy

83%

80%

Key passes

1.2

0.5

Through balls completed

0.3

0.06

Tackles won

1.5

1.4

Fouls won

1.4

1.1

Aerials success rate

45%

37%

He also managed to complete more passes and more key passes, subsequently aiding attackers ahead of him, as demonstrated by his assist tally back in 2021/22.

Luiz’s dominance doesn’t stop there, winning more tackles per 90 and coming out on top in more aerial battles, having the tools to star out of possession for the Whites.

£30m for a player of his quality in today’s market is an absolute bargain, with the 27-year-old having the experience to thrive in such a division should he return to England.

It remains unclear whether he would be open to a switch to Elland Road, but Farke and the hierarchy must work tirelessly to convince the international star to move to Yorkshire this summer.

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Scott Parker certainly lived up to his label as a serial promotion winner out of the Championship this season at the Burnley helm.

Securing second spot for the Clarets on a mighty 100 points means Parker has now won promotion three times up to the Premier League as a boss, with the uphill battle of attempting to keep the Lancashire underdogs afloat in the taxing division now the tough goal.

It’s been a less-than-ideal summer so far for the newly promoted side unfortunately, as CJ Egan-Riley nears ever closer to a sad Clarets exit, whilst Josh Brownhill’s future at the club is reportedly up in the air having attracted interest from West Ham.

But, it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom as the Clarets anxiously count down the days until the Premier League returns to Turf Moor.

How might the Clarets look in the Premier League? We’ve laid out their dream XI in the top-flight right here…

1 GK – James Trafford

Much like Egan-Riley, Burnley’s number one goalkeeper James Trafford has reportedly been the subject of interest from Newcastle.

But, Parker and Co will just aim to keep swatting away interested parties, knowing full well that Trafford is Premier League capable, having kept a ridiculous 29 clean sheets last season.

2 RB – Connor Roberts

Connor Roberts is also likely to retain his place as Burnley’s starting right-back in top-flight action.

He was another steady presence in the Clarets’ formidable defence last campaign, whilst also being able to boast a season of Premier League experience already with the Lancashire outfit.

3 CB – Victor Nelsson

The first brand-new purchase could see Burnley take a punt on 26-year-old centre-back Victor Nelsson in a bid to immediately fill the Egan-Riley void.

Previously linked with a €10m (£8m) move for Nelsson in January, the 6 foot 1 Dane has shown across his career to date his ability to shine in some top divisions.

Before falling out of favour at Galatasaray and heading to AS Roma on loan, Nelsson would pick up a hefty 11 clean sheets in Super Lig action across the 2023/24 season, finishing too with an imposing average of 5.3 duels won per contest.

With his spell at Roma not going to plan either, the Scandinavian could well fancy leaving Turkey behind for good which is where Burnley might capitalise.

4 CB – Maxime Esteve

Whilst the news of Egan-Riley’s expected exit will sting, Burnley being able to keep a firm grip on his usual centre-back partner in Maxime Esteve could at least come as some source of comfort.

The Frenchman has been linked with a switch away to Crystal Palace, but if the Clarets are serious about their survival hopes, they must keep Esteve around.

The 23-year-old already looks ready-made for the Premier League, with the ex-Montpellier enforcer both confident on the ball with a 91% pass accuracy averaged last season in league action, but also assured when launching into many a tackle.

5 LB – Josip Juranovic

Whilst normally a right-back by trade, Burnley’s lack of a main left-back option could see the Clarets swoop in for reported target Josip Juranovic for help.

The “immense” Croat, as he’s been previously lauded by European football expert Zach Lowy, has been a goal-and-assist machine wherever he’s gone across his nomadic career.

That’s seen in his career tally of 43 goal contributions – but it’s ability to slot in as a right-back, left-back or even as a centre-back with ease that will have piqued Burnley’s interest.

6 CM – Josh Brownhill

Much like Esteve, it would be a complete disaster if Burnley were to lose Josh Brownhill after his sublime promotion heroics.

But, with his contract running down, it could well be a sticky situation to solve.

Still, if they can get their exciting captain to say, it would make the world of difference to the Clarets’ survival odds, considering the wanted star fired home 18 strikes last season as Burnley’s top scorer.

7 CM – Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall

Burnley-linked Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall might soon form a healthy working relationship with Josh Brownhill if the ex-Leicester City man is finally freed from his Stamford Bridge ordeal.

Whilst his time in West London has been rocky after a £30m switch last summer, he showed more than enough for the Foxes for Parker to consider a move, boasting 17 goals and 20 assists in total across his memorable King Power Stadium stay.

8 RM – Marcus Edwards

Now officially a permanent member of the Burnley camp, Marcus Edwards will be raring to go in the Premier League next campaign.

After all, he was once a heavily fancied kid off the block at Tottenham Hotspur, but he would never go on to make a top-flight appearance on the periphery in North London.

Now, after collecting a goal and an assist from 14 Turf Moor clashes, his opportunity finally awaits.

9 CAM – Hannibal Mejbri

Hannibal Mejbri is very much in the same camp as Edwards in attempting to show he belongs at the intimidating level.

He certainly showed he was worthy of competing at the top end of the Championship with Parker’s men, as seen in his respectable tally of one goal and five assists from the number ten spot. Therefore, he could come back to haunt his ex-employers, Manchester United.

10 LM – Jaidon Anthony

Jaidon Anthony will also be bursting with excitement about reentering the Premier League with the Clarets after penning a permanent deal at Turf Moor.

Whilst his team’s stern defence just stole most of the deserved plaudits, Anthony’s high haul of eight goals and seven assists from 43 league clashes went somewhat under the radar.

With Premier League experience also already under his belt with AFC Bournemouth, the 25-year-old could soon cause even more havoc down the left flank for Parker’s men.

The forecast for rain in Florida on match day will not let the former world champions breathe easy

Madushka Balasuriya11-Jun-2024

Wanindu Hasaranga will face perhaps his biggest test early as captain, as Sri Lanka must win against Nepal to stay alive•ICC/Getty Images

Match detailsNepal vs Sri Lanka
Lauderhill, Florida, 7:30pm local timeBig picture: Nepal’s best chance of beating Sri LankaSo, you’re saying there’s a chance? That will be the essence of Sri Lanka’s thinking from here on as they seek to keep alive their dwindling hopes of Super Eight qualification in the T20 World Cup 2024.After two defeats in two – to South Africa and Bangladesh – the former world champions are now firmly in must-win territory. As things stand, nothing but outright victories against Nepal and Netherlands will suffice, and even then, Sri Lanka will need at least one (ideally both) of those sides to beat Bangladesh. It’s an unlikely scenario certainly, but one an entire nation will be aiming to manifest into existence.Related

A Sri Lanka campaign that could have been an email

Paudel: Sri Lanka are under more pressure than us

Going in their favour will be the fact that the drop-in pitches, and the inherent unpredictability they bring, are now firmly in the rearview mirror. Indeed, Sri Lanka’s batters, like those of several other sides, have struggled to deal with some of the undercooked surfaces on offer in New York and Dallas, and will no doubt see the scarcely-utilised but relatively more seasoned tracks in Lauderhill as a welcome change.In fact, Sri Lanka will go in with a wealth of information by comparison, having played both their warm-up games there. They will also be able to gather info from the India-West Indies series held there late last year, while it’s a neat fact that Sri Lanka themselves were among the first teams to play in Lauderhill all the way back in 2010.As such their only real worry might be factors well beyond their control as their tournament fate might well be at the hands of the weather gods, with rain a mainstay in Florida as of late – a washed-out match and the subsequent shared points will almost extinguish any lingering hopes of qualification.As for Nepal, qualification to the next round was always a fanciful notion, especially having been pitted in a dreaded group of death. Such was their plight, their opening game against Netherlands was already one they could ill afford to lose and following that result they were left needing to beat at least two of Sri Lanka, South Africa or Bangladesh to be in with a shot at qualification.They now come against an opponent they have never faced, and one that possesses a bowling attack with the sort of variety that is tough to prepare for at the best of times. That said, this is a Sri Lankan outfit that is out of sorts in terms of their batting, and on the biggest stage you will rarely be presented with a more opportune moment of grabbing a historic upset.Nepal will want their second-highest wicket-taker in Karan KC to step up•ICC/Getty Images

Form guideNepal LLLWW
Sri Lanka LLWLWIn the spotlight: Karan KC and Nuwan ThusharaSandeep Lamichhane is no doubt a massive miss, and someone whose absence hindered Nepal significantly in their opening game loss to the Netherlands as well. But in the experienced Karan KC – their second-highest T20I wicket taker – they have someone that can pose questions to Sri Lanka’s top order, and potentially expose their soft underbelly. Karan, to be fair, hasn’t been at his wicket-taking best in recent times but he has a pedigree for grabbing hauls and Nepal will be hoping the next one is just around the corner.While Sri Lanka’s struggles are well documented across their opening two games, one area in which they’ve excelled with is the ball. That has been primarily down to their success in the powerplay, where the slingy Nuwan Thushara has proved a handful for opposition batters. With his ability to swing the ball late and his unusual trajectory, he nearly single-handedly stole a win against Bangladesh. Nepal’s batters will have no doubt done their homework but facing him will be a whole new proposition.Team newsThere’s been a fair bit of rain in Lauderhill, which means potentially some moisture in the surface. It would be unsurprising then for Nepal to stick with their seam-heavy combination.Nepal (probable XI): 1 Kushal Bhurtel, 2 Aasif Sheikh (wk), 3 Anil Sah, 4 Kushal Malla, 5 Rohit Paudel (capt), 6 Dipendra Singh Airee, 7 Gulsan Jha, 8 Sompal Kami, 9 Karan KC, 10 Abinash Bohara 11 Sagar DhakalNuwan Thushara has been successful for Sri Lanka in the powerplay•ICC/Getty Images

The potentially seam friendly conditions in Florida could see Sri Lanka opt to bring in a third frontline seamer in either Dushmantha Chameera or Dilshan Madushanka – neither of whom has featured in the competition yet – in place of Maheesh Theekshana.Sri Lanka (probable XI): 1 Pathum Nissanka, 2 Kusal Mendis (wk), 3 Kamindu Mendis, 4 Dhananjaya de Silva, 5 Charith Asalanka, 6 Angelo Mathews, 7 Dasun Shanaka, 8 Wanindu Hasaranga (capt), 9 Maheesh Theekshana/Dilshan Madushanka, 10 Matheesha Pathirana, 11 Nuwan ThusharaPitch and conditionsSri Lanka’s warm up games in Lauderhill saw runs and all indications currently are that the pitch for this game will assist the batters. Rain, however, is set to play spoilsport with Sri Lanka already having had a training session on Monday curtailed by the inclement weather. Tuesday’s forecast is not any better with thunderstorms expected throughout the evening, so this could be fairly stop-start affair.Stats and trivia Nuwan Thushara’s strike rate of a wicket every 9.4 deliveries is the best of any bowler from a Full Member nation to have taken at least 10 wickets in T20Is since January 2023 Eleven of the 15 completed matches in Lauderhill have been won by the side batting first The average score in Lauderhill is 160. The average first innings score is 168.Quotes”I think the gap is very good, especially to prepare ourselves, especially after we lost against Netherlands. We have utilised three, four net sessions here and we are very well prepared for tomorrow’s game.”
“I think the morale is there, the spirit is there. It’s just one missed opportunity. Otherwise, if you want to judge anyone, how they feel, just see them how they bowl and how they field.”