Arne Slot’s squad did not participate in the FA Cup fourth-round fixtures over the weekend, having been eliminated in the previous stage by Plymouth Argyle. As a result, the team enjoys a longer break ahead of their journey to the French capital.
The Merseyside club remains in contention for three major trophies this season. They currently hold a commanding 13-point advantage over Arsenal at the summit of the Premier League standings.
Additionally, they have secured a spot in the Carabao Cup final, where they will clash with Newcastle United. Their strong performances also make them one of the leading contenders for Champions League glory, with the final set to take place in Munich this May.
Beyond their quest for silverware, Liverpool has turned its attention to strengthening their defense, with a key target emerging from one of their fiercest rivals. Reports suggest that the club has identified an England international as a possible summer signing to reinforce their backline.
In addition to monitoring the England international, Liverpool is also keeping a close watch on Bournemouth’s central defender Dean Hujsen, along with Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez and Sporting CP’s Goncalo Inacio.
The club has previously been linked with a move for Levi Colwill, and fresh reports indicate that the Premier League frontrunners may renew their interest in the 22-year-old when the transfer window opens.
Colwill, a graduate of Chelsea’s youth system, has accumulated over 50 senior appearances for the West London outfit. Having impressed during loan spells at Huddersfield Town and Brighton and Hove Albion, the centre-back remains contracted to Chelsea until the conclusion of the 2028/29 campaign.
Arsenal in Talks for Champions League Standout as West Ham Eyes Move as Transfer Battle Heats Up
Arsenal in Talks for Champions League Standout as West Ham Eyes Move as Transfer Battle Heats Up.
West Ham faces crucial decisions regarding their left-back position this summer, with growing competition from a rising star. The club is reportedly competing with top European sides, including Premier League rivals Arsenal, in the race to sign Club Brugge defender Maxim De Cuyper.
This position has become a significant focus at the London Stadium ahead of the new season. Since joining from Chelsea in 2022, Emerson has held the starting role, but his place has remained largely unchallenged. Recently, there have been links suggesting his possible departure, with Galatasaray previously considering a bid last summer after failing to sign Aston Villa’s Lucas Digne, though no deal materialized.
Arsenal Engages in Talks for Brugge’s Standout Talent
With Graham Potter now managing the team, 19-year-old Oliver Scarles appears to have taken over as the preferred left-back, surpassing the more experienced Emerson. This development could pave the way for Emerson’s exit in the summer, prompting West Ham to seek a new reinforcement to support the young defender.
One potential signing is De Cuyper. The 23-year-old, under contract at Club Brugge until 2028, is attracting significant interest. Reports from Mundo Deportivo link Paris Saint-Germain with a potential bid, while Tuttosport recently claimed that Arsenal has already initiated discussions for his transfer. AC Milan is also keeping a close watch on the situation.
Additionally, West Ham has been identified as another possible destination. However, among the clubs involved, the Hammers might be the only side unable to offer European football. De Cuyper has impressed in the Champions League this season, with an asking price of around £20 million being reported.
West Ham Prioritizing a New Contract for Ollie Scarles
De Cuyper has delivered five assists in 24 Jupiler Pro League matches this season, featuring in European competitions such as the Europa League, Conference League, and Champions League.
Simultaneously, West Ham is working on securing the long-term future of Scarles, who is considered a key prospect for the club. According to Claret and Hugh, the teenager has been a revelation, and should his form continue, a new contract will be presented to him before Christmas.
Following Scarles’ outstanding display in a 1-0 victory over Arsenal, Graham Potter expressed his admiration for the young player. He described his performance as incredible and credited the academy for developing such a rare talent.
Potter acknowledged that while Scarles has shown great promise and character, it is essential to manage expectations, as he is still young and has plenty to learn. However, he believes there is much to look forward to in the player’s future.
Arsenal in Talks for Champions League Standout as West Ham Eyes Move as Transfer Battle Heats Up
Chelsea Lost “England’s Next Superstar” for £0 – Now He’s Worth £80M
Chelsea Lost “England’s Next Superstar” for £0 – Now He’s Worth £80M.
Chelsea bounced back in the Premier League with a commanding 4-0 victory over Southampton at Stamford Bridge. This win came after three consecutive defeats in all competitions, twice against Brighton & Hove Albion and once to Aston Villa.
The goals from Christopher Nkunku, Pedro Neto, Marc Cucurella, and Levi Colwill secured a crucial three points for Enzo Maresca’s team as they prepared for their upcoming Conference League clash against Copenhagen.
The match was particularly important for Nkunku, who had struggled in the Premier League with only two goals and one assist in 22 appearances before this encounter. His confidence boost comes at a crucial time, especially with Nicolas Jackson sidelined due to injury.
Meanwhile, Manchester United loanee Jadon Sancho failed to make an impact on the right wing, continuing his struggles in the final third. The England international has now gone nine games without registering a goal or assist for Chelsea.
During the Southampton match, Sancho did not register a single shot on goal, extending his goalless run to 14 competitive matches. His last goal came in a 4-3 win over Tottenham Hotspur, where he managed to find the bottom corner from outside the box.
Despite his loan move from Manchester United, which includes an obligation to buy him for up to £25m, he has failed to justify his price tag at Stamford Bridge.
Statistics from Sofascore reveal Sancho’s underwhelming contributions. He ranks 10th in expected goals (xG) with 1.54, 9th in goals (2), and 6th in big chances created (5). Although he ranks 3rd in key passes per game (1.2) and 4th in assists (4), his performances have not met expectations. Chelsea might be regretting letting go of past academy talents, such as Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Bynoe-Gittens.
Chelsea’s Academy Blunder: Letting Gittens Slip Away
According to reports, Chelsea initially had Bynoe-Gittens in their academy but failed to convince him to stay. Instead, he moved to Reading’s youth system, rejecting Cobham’s offer.
Transfermarkt records show that the forward spent the latter half of the 2011/12 season with Chelsea before opting to return to Reading, meaning Chelsea lost him without receiving any compensation.
The academy staff were unable to persuade his family or representatives that Cobham was the best place for him to develop. He remained at Reading for six more years before joining Manchester City’s academy in 2018. However, he never made a senior appearance for City and eventually moved to Borussia Dortmund ahead of the 2020/21 campaign.
Bynoe-Gittens flourished in Dortmund’s U19 setup, netting 11 goals and providing five assists in just 20 matches. By the 2022/23 season, he had established himself as a regular in the senior squad. Chelsea may now regret letting such a talent slip away, as he has arguably surpassed Sancho in ability and market value.
Recently, the Mirror reported that Chelsea and Arsenal are keen on signing Gittens. However, Borussia Dortmund has set a staggering £80m asking price for the young winger ahead of the summer transfer window. This highlights Chelsea’s missed opportunity when they failed to retain him as a youth prospect.
The England U21 international, once described as “England’s next superstar” by a German outlet, has amassed 11 goals and four assists across all competitions this season. Football analyst Jacek Kulig also labeled him a “wonderkid.” His statistics further underscore his superiority over Sancho as an attacking force at both league and European levels this season.
24/25 Season Comparison
Player
Appearances
xG
Goals
Big Chances Created
xA
Assists
Gittens (Bundesliga + UCL)
34
4.42
11
9
5.40
3
Sancho (PL + Conference League)
22
1.57
2
6
3.20
5
Sofascore’s data highlights Gittens’ superior ability as a goal scorer and playmaker. He has provided a greater attacking threat, creating more opportunities and accumulating a higher expected assists (xA) tally. Given this, Chelsea would be in a better position had they retained Gittens instead of investing in Sancho.
While it might be unfair to criticize Chelsea for losing Gittens at such a young age, they may still reflect on what could have been had he stayed at Cobham.
He has since blossomed into a top talent, now commanding a hefty price tag and attracting interest from the same club that once let him go. As Chelsea struggles to get the best out of Sancho, they may find themselves wishing they had held onto a player who has now become one of England’s brightest young stars.
Chelsea Lost “England’s Next Superstar” for £0 – Now He’s Worth £80M
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: Nick Pope of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Nottingham Forest FC at St James' Park on February 23, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
Nick Pope’s Valuation and Newcastle’s Interest in James Trafford
Newcastle United Set Price for Nick Pope
Newcastle United have officially determined a price range for Nick Pope, as sources have disclosed the club’s growing interest in Burnley’s James Trafford, according to Football Insider.
Senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke stated on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast that despite being 32 years old, Pope still has several years ahead of him in professional football. With his contract set to expire in the upcoming summer transfer window, Newcastle aims to secure a substantial fee, reflecting his experience and high level of performance.
Football Insider’s well-placed sources indicated that any club hoping to sign Pope would need to pay between £10-15 million to convince Newcastle to part ways with their goalkeeper. Due to his standing as one of the top goalkeepers in the Premier League and a frequent England international, his valuation remains strong.
However, Newcastle’s willingness to sell Pope is contingent upon securing a suitable replacement who can take over his position in the squad.
Injury Concerns Affect Pope’s Season
Pope’s season has been disrupted by fitness struggles, causing him to miss 10 matches across all competitions. Industry expert Mick Brown informed Football Insider that Newcastle remain open to selling the goalkeeper, citing doubts over his performances and his recovery process following his most recent injury setback.
Former Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson shared with Football Insider that Pope would likely be frustrated with how injuries have negatively impacted his performances this season. The situation has led Newcastle to reassess his future at St James’s Park.
Newcastle Targeting James Trafford
Sources close to Football Insider have revealed that Newcastle is keen on acquiring Burnley’s James Trafford during the summer transfer window. The 22-year-old is initially expected to serve as a backup at St James’s Park, offering long-term cover and eventually succeeding Pope.
Uncertainty remains over whether Trafford would be considered as Newcastle’s immediate first-choice goalkeeper, which raises questions about Pope’s potential departure.
Trafford has delivered an impressive campaign at Turf Moor, contributing to Burnley’s strong defensive record, with only nine goals conceded in 34 Championship games this season.
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Nick Pope’s Valuation and Newcastle’s Interest in James Trafford
7 Liverpool Players Could Miss Key Champions League Showdown with PSG
7 Liverpool Players Could Miss Key Champions League Showdown with PSG.
Liverpool are set to miss a minimum of four key players for their pivotal Champions League fixture against PSG on Wednesday night. Despite a break from action over the weekend, their injury concerns have continued to escalate.
Joe Gomez and Tyler Morton remain sidelined for the long term following surgeries for hamstring and shoulder issues, respectively. Conor Bradley is also unavailable for several weeks after suffering a hamstring injury last month against Aston Villa. Additionally, Amara Nallo is ruled out due to a suspension incurred on his debut against PSV Eindhoven in January. Although the young defender was unlikely to feature in Paris, his absence further limits Arne Slot’s selection choices.
Disciplinary Challenges Pose Further Risks
As Liverpool strive to progress in the Champions League, disciplinary concerns add to their difficulties. Four players are currently at risk of suspension for the second leg at Anfield. Ibrahima Konate, Andy Robertson, and Harvey Elliott have each received two yellow cards in this season’s competition and would face a one-match suspension if booked again. Alexis Mac Allister, who already served a ban during the league phase, remains in danger of another suspension, having been cautioned four times this season.
Players who accumulate three yellow cards without receiving a red are subject to a one-match suspension, with additional bans enforced for every subsequent odd-numbered booking. Since yellow cards remain valid until the quarter-finals conclude, these players must navigate four matches without further infractions to avoid missing crucial fixtures.
More Players Walking a Disciplinary Tightrope
Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, Luis Diaz, Kostas Tsimikas, and Darwin Nunez have all been shown one yellow card in the Champions League this season. If any of them receive two more bookings before the quarter-finals end, they too will face suspensions, adding further strain to Liverpool’s squad depth.
Despite these concerns, Liverpool can take solace in the return of both Arne Slot and assistant head coach Sipke Hulshoff to the touchline for the PSG encounter. The pair are currently serving a two-game Premier League touchline ban following their conduct during Liverpool’s controversial 2-2 draw with Everton last month. However, they are permitted to resume their coaching duties for Champions League matches, providing a boost to the squad’s leadership in Paris.
7 Liverpool Players Could Miss Key Champions League Showdown with PSG
TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 26: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus looks down after missing a penalty in the shoot out of the Coppa Italia Quarter Final match between Juventus FC and Empoli FC at Allianz Stadium on February 26, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
Aston Villa Eye “World-Class” Vlahovic as Potential Duran Replacement
Aston Villa are now showing concrete interest in acquiring a “world-class” striker to fill the void left by Jhon Duran. A transfer deal worth approximately £50m is considered feasible, though Arsenal could pose competition for the target.
Duran made a lucrative £65m switch to Al-Nassr during the final days of the January transfer window. The 21-year-old has settled in well, scoring four goals in his first four league appearances in Saudi Arabia.
While the substantial transfer fee alleviates some of Villa’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) concerns, it has also left Unai Emery with limited attacking options. As a result, the club is actively assessing potential replacements ahead of the summer transfer window.
Atalanta’s Mateo Retegui has emerged as a strong candidate, given his impressive goal-scoring form in Serie A. Additionally, FC Porto’s Samu Omorodion Aghehowa is being closely monitored, as he has outperformed Ollie Watkins in terms of goals this season. However, another top target is Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, who is increasingly likely to depart at the end of the season.
Reports from TEAMtalk suggest that Villa’s interest in Vlahovic is serious, as contract negotiations with Juventus are not making progress. With his future at the club uncertain, the Serbian striker may seek a move elsewhere. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is also reported to be an admirer of the forward, which could intensify the competition for his signature.
While Villa have yet to submit a formal bid, they are contemplating an approach for the Juventus frontman. Should they proceed, a £50m offer is believed to be sufficient to finalize the deal.
Upcoming Fixtures for Aston Villa
March 4th: Club Brugge (a) March 8th: Brentford (a) March 12th: Club Brugge (h) April 1st: Brighton & Hove Albion (a) April 5th: Nottingham Forest (h)
Vlahovic’s Credentials as a Suitable Replacement
Despite Watkins being Emery’s first-choice striker, Duran’s departure was a significant loss due to the impact he provided from the bench. However, Vlahovic appears to be a strong contender to fill that gap effectively.
At 25 years old, Vlahovic possesses greater top-level experience compared to Duran. He has netted six goals in 16 Champions League matches and boasts an impressive record of 86 goals and 14 assists in 193 Serie A appearances, including nine goals this season. Serie A journalist Siavoush Fallahi has previously described the Serbian as “world-class,” reinforcing his potential value to Villa’s squad.
That said, Retegui could present an even more attractive option. Despite being the same age as Vlahovic, the Atalanta forward has significantly outperformed him this season, having already scored 21 Serie A goals. Given this, Villa may have to weigh their options carefully before making a final decision on their new striker.
Aston Villa Eye “World-Class” Vlahovic as Potential Duran Replacement.
Martin Anselmi head coach of FC Porto gestures during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between AS Roma and FC Porto at Stadio Olimpico on February 20, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Watford FC’s Hopes Fading as Porto Take Lead in Villarreal Pursuit
Watford FC’s efforts to secure the signing of 19-year-old striker Neyser Villarreal appear to be diminishing, with Portuguese club Porto now leading the race. Reports indicate that the Championship side has become little more than a spectator in the unfolding battle for the Colombian forward’s signature.
Alan Nixon, via his Patreon page, revealed on Sunday morning that Watford’s pursuit of Villarreal is slipping away. The young striker has delivered outstanding performances for Colombia’s under-20 squad, catching the attention of several European clubs, including Watford. However, it now seems increasingly likely that Villarreal will end up at Porto instead.
Contract Situation and Watford’s Diminishing Chances
With Villarreal’s contract at Millonarios expiring in November 2025, there is a possibility he could leave on a free transfer if no renewal is agreed upon. Despite this, any hopes of him moving to Vicarage Road are now fading.
Nixon’s latest update suggests that a deal for Villarreal is unlikely as his agent has reportedly given assurances to Porto, setting the stage for a future move to the Estádio do Dragão. Given his impressive international displays, the former European champions have positioned themselves as the prime destination for the highly-rated forward.
Failed Brazilian Offers and Porto’s Advantage
Further diminishing Watford’s hopes, Nixon also reported that Brazilian club Vasco da Gama made a bid of approximately £3 million plus add-ons, which was accepted by Millonarios. However, the deal collapsed when Villarreal and his agent refused to engage in discussions with the Brazilian club.
With Porto appearing to be the preferred destination, Nixon emphasized that Watford must now explore alternative options to strengthen their attacking lineup. The likelihood of the Colombian moving to England has significantly decreased as Porto solidifies its position as the primary contender.
Watford’s Setback After Leading the Chase
Only a week ago, reports suggested Watford were at the forefront of the race to sign Villarreal, making Sunday’s update a disappointing revelation for the club’s supporters. Interest in the Colombian was not limited to England, as both Vasco da Gama and Palmeiras pursued him, though he showed no inclination to move to Brazil.
Additionally, Liverpool and Newcastle United were initially linked with Villarreal, monitoring his situation. However, as Porto now holds the advantage following his breakout tournament in the South American Under-20s Championship, the competition for his signature appears to be nearing its conclusion.
With new details emerging daily in this ongoing transfer saga, the coming weeks will determine Villarreal’s fate. Unfortunately for Watford, the latest developments suggest their hopes of securing the young striker have all but vanished. Supporters who once believed their club was leading the chase must now brace for disappointment, as Villarreal seems destined for Portugal.
Watford FC’s Hopes Fading as Porto Take Lead in Villarreal Pursuit
Kenya Pipeline Volleyball Team Set for Title Defense in Uganda
Kenya Pipeline Volleyball Team Set for Title Defense in Uganda.
Defending champions, Kenya Pipeline Volleyball Team, have departed for Kalala, Uganda, to participate in the 2025 edition of the CAVB Africa Zone Five Club Championships.
The tournament is scheduled to take place from February 26 to March 4 at the Lugogo Indoor Arena. Over 20 teams will compete for the prestigious Keta title, making it one of the most anticipated volleyball events in the region.
The championship will feature top clubs, including APR, Rwanda National Police, Tanzania Prison Services, Sports S, KCCA, Vision Volleyball Camp, Dej University Elites, and KCB Kumba. With such a competitive lineup, the tournament promises high-intensity matches as teams battle for supremacy in the zone.
Zone Five consists of 12 African countries, namely Kenya, Burundi, Egypt, South Sudan, Sudan, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. These nations will be represented by their best teams, ensuring a showcase of skill and talent throughout the championship.
Kenya Pipeline Volleyball Team Set for Title Defense in Uganda.
Martha Karua's NARC-Kenya rebrands to People's Liberation Party
Martha Karua’s NARC-Kenya rebrands to People’s Liberation Party
NARC-Kenya has officially transitioned to the People’s Liberation Party (PLP), with its leader Martha Karua emphasizing that this shift aligns with a forward-thinking, people-centred vision prioritizing unity, accountability, and transparency.
The party also seeks to engage younger voters, particularly from Generation Z, by refreshing its image and appeal.
Ahead of the official launch on Thursday, Karua explained that NARC-Kenya, established nearly two decades ago, had become less recognizable among younger demographics.
She highlighted that the transformation into PLP aims to rejuvenate its influence and reinforce its commitment to democratic principles. The party’s new slogan, ‘Unite – Liberate,’ reflects its mission.
In addition to the name change, the party has adopted new colours—purple, lilac, and white—while retaining its floral identity.
The previously recognized green rose has been replaced with a purple rose, symbolizing love, peace, and friendship. Karua noted that these changes are intended to communicate a renewed sense of purpose and dedication to the party’s core values.
Karua also expressed disapproval of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s recent decision to impose fees on national identity cards.
She argued that these charges would create financial barriers for many young people, potentially depriving them of essential services and their right to vote, which ultimately hinders their role in shaping the nation’s future.
Martha Karua’s NARC-Kenya rebrands to People’s Liberation Party
Bobi Wine’s Party Reports Police Raid, Claims Spy Devices Installed
Bobi Wine’s Party Reports Police Raid, Claims Spy Devices Installed
Uganda’s leading opposition party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), reported on Monday that security forces raided its headquarters over the weekend, seizing cash, computers, and documents while installing surveillance devices.
The party, led by musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine, has faced repeated crackdowns by security forces in recent years.
The incident occurred in Kampala as the nation moves toward the presidential election scheduled for January 2026. President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled for four decades, is expected to seek reelection.
Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, stated that police and military forces confiscated 15 laptops, 10 central processing units, and a main computer. In addition, the party’s surveillance cameras were removed, and spy cameras and listening devices were secretly placed in various offices, including his own.
He further detailed that security forces took 250 textbooks from the party’s library, over 2,500 membership cards, and more than 400 shirts, along with cups and umbrellas featuring his image. A sum of $12,000 in cash was also allegedly taken.
Arrests and Tracking of Party Officials
Wine reported that five party officials, including his elder brother, were briefly detained in recent days without being formally charged.
He recounted how tracking devices installed in the officials’ vehicles allowed them to trace their locations to police and military intelligence headquarters, leading to their discovery.
Despite multiple requests for comments, the police and military remained silent on the reported arrests. However, police confirmed the raid on the NUP headquarters, stating that it was conducted due to alleged “unauthorised military drills” taking place on the premises.
Authorities linked this claim to a recent parade by NUP members. Officials have previously expressed concern over the party’s red tunics and berets, arguing that their resemblance to military uniforms is problematic.
Bobi Wine’s Party Reports Police Raid, Claims Spy Devices Installed
