Latest news with #ex-PSG
Daily Mirror
17-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Mirror
Liverpool close on Hugo Ekitike transfer as Newcastle pushed aside after Alexander Isak threat
Both Liverpool and Newcastle have been interested in Hugo Ekitike, but the Eintracht Frankfurt striker wants to move to Anfield and could cost the Reds more than £70million - with Newcastle having been unwilling to deal for Alexander Isak Liverpool are in pole position to sign Hugo Ekitike with the player preferring a move to Anfield over Newcastle. The Reds will have to submit an offer of more than £70m as Eintracht Frankfurt rejected an offer from Newcastle for that sum earlier this week. But Liverpool have told the Bundesliga club that they are ready to bid for the player. Ekitike, 23, is now understood to be favouring a move to Anfield and talks could now intensify when Liverpool submit a bid. The Reds approached Frankfurt on Wednesday to register their interest and later informed the club they are ready to bid. They also have an interest in Newcastle striker Alexander Isak. But they would need to smash the British transfer record to land him and the Magpies are not willing to sell. The Reds are scouring the market for a world-class No 9. Isak, 25, could cost £120m as Liverpool consider spending big with Ekitike set to be over £70m. The Reds currently believe that the Magpies will not sell their star striker this summer - leaving Liverpool to muscle in on a long-time Magpies target. As such, Ekitike has jumped to the front of the queue on Merseyside, with Frankfurt ready to part ways if their valuation of the France striker is met. Despite qualifying for the Champions League, the German club know that selling now will offer them the maximum they can get for the ex-PSG star, and allow them to reinvest. Liverpool want a new front man with Darwin Nunez expected to leave this summer if suitors can be found. Bayern Munich are also expected to bid again for Luis Diaz after a £58.6m bid was rejected by the Reds this week. Liverpool have spent big this summer with the signing of Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen for an initial £100m rising to £116m, while they also paid the German side £29m for Jeremie Frimpong. They've shelled out £40m to land Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth and the £30m deal for keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia was agreed last summer. Newcastle meanwhile are desperate to add another striker to partner Isak and having learned that Ekitike wants a move to Merseyside are targeting Brentford's Yoann Wissa. The Bees are determined to keep their centre-forward however on the back of a 19-goal Premier League season last term and particularly with Bryan Mbeumo wanting to join Manchester United - having also decided against a move to Merseyside.
Daily Record
16-07-2025
- Sport
- Daily Record
Sporting CP vs Celtic LIVE score and goal updates from pre season friendly in Portugal
The champions of Scotland and Portugal go head-to-head tonight as Celtic bring the curtain down on their pre-season tour in the Algarve. Brendan Rodgers' side have been grafting in the searing heat of Lisbon since Thursday, even taking time to visit the iconic Estadio Nacional - the site of the club's greatest ever triumph in 1967 - before heading south last night. Saturday's behind-closed-doors runout against Estrela da Amadora ended in a 3-2 defeat, but now Callum McGregor and Co. will step things up in front of a big crowd at the Estadio Algarve. New Bhoys Kieran Tierney, Benji Nygren and Hayato Inamura are set for more minutes as they continue to build match sharpness, while a number of academy prospects could also be handed another chance to impress. Meanwhile, Shin Yamada is poised to become Celtic's latest summer signing, with the Japanese striker saying his goodbyes to Kawasaki Frontale ahead of his move to Glasgow. Rodgers is likely to face fresh questions on transfer business after the game, having already made it clear that reinforcements are urgently needed before the Premiership curtain-raiser. Ryan McDonald Pre-season fixture schedule Celtic got their campaign off to a flyer last year with emphatic pre-season wins over Manchester City and Chelsea. There hasn't quite been the same pace and energy so far this summer, but at this stage, it's all about building fitness. The champions have four more games to go before next month's Premiership curtain-raiser at home to St Mirren. July 4 - Queen's Park 0-1 Celtic July 8 – Cork City 1-2 Celtic July 12 – Celtic 2-3 Estrela Da Amadora July 16 (KO: 7:30pm) – Sporting CP v Celtic July 19 (KO: 3pm) – Celtic v Newcastle United July 24 (KO: 7:30pm) – Celtic v Ajax July 26/27 (KO TBC) – Como or Al Ahli v Celtic Ryan McDonald Odds-on to return? Celtic have been alerted to the availability of former hero Odsonne Edouard. However, Brendan Rodgers would have to stump up serious cash to bring the Frenchman back to Parkhead. Edouard has been deemed surplus to requirements at Crystal Palace and has entered the final year of his contract. The Eagles are keen to offload the striker this summer and Edouard is now weighing up his options. It's believed the ex-PSG kid is picking up a weekly salary of £80,000 - and that's a huge hurdle for Celts. Ryan McDonald Need for speed Impatient Celtic fans have made their feelings clear on social media about the lack of transfer business in recent days. But the Hoops are edging closer to a £1.2million deal for Japan B international Shin Yamada. Kawasaki Frontale have confirmed the striker is set to join 'an overseas club,' with Yamada expected to team up with compatriots Daizen Maeda, Reo Hatate and Hayato Inamura in Glasgow's east end. Will he be a direct replacement for Kyogo? That remains to be seen - but Brendan Rodgers will be grilled on the incoming signing after tonight's clash with Sporting Lisbon.
Qatar Tribune
10-07-2025
- Sport
- Qatar Tribune
Alonso announces Real ‘restart from zero' after PSG defeat
dpa East Rutherford, New Jersey New Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has insisted that his real work at the club only starts now. Speaking after a comprehensive 4-0 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semi-finals, Alonso announced 'a restart from zero.' Alonso took over from Carlo Ancelotti just before the tournament in the United States with no time to implement his ideas. 'We are in a competitive environment here, without proper training,' Alonso said. 'It's the end of this season and not the start of the next. We'll take the positives from this Club World Cup period. We're leaving as a better team. It's a starting point for a better start next season.' Alonso arrived from Bayer Leverkusen at the record Champions League winners he played for in the past. Wednesday's defeat was his first since in charge, and it was a painful one as PSG were 2-0 up after nine minutes after defensive mistakes, and led 3-0 another 15 minutes later. Alonso named the defeat 'painful' as PSG's collective coached by Luis Enrique destroyed Real almost in the same way as they did in their 5-0 triumph over Inter Milan in the May 31 Champions League final. While PSG now aim for the quadruple on Sunday against Chelsea, having also won the French league and cup, Alonso must form a team from such skilled individuals including ex-PSG star Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior after a season without silverware. 'This tournament has taught me many things about what we are and what we have to improve,' he said. 'We want to build a team that plays as a unit and where everyone is involved.' Success won't come instantly from next season onwards, Alonso warned, saying: 'It's the first defeat, but it won't be the last. Anyone who thinks they'll never lose is deluding themselves. 'It's what we have to do and tomorrow we start a period of rest and recharging our brains. We can't forget today's game, but we can't let this game drag us down either.' The restart could also include reinforcements, as Alonso said: 'We haven't talked about it during the Club World Cup, but from now on we're open to making improvements. We are always looking to improve and there's room for improvement.'
Scottish Sun
09-07-2025
- Sport
- Scottish Sun
Meet Rangers target Djeidi Gassama, the speedy ex-PSG starlet who played with Messi & Mbappe and took Europe by storm
He's revealed what it was like to play alongside the biggest superstars in football TANK OF GASS Meet Rangers target Djeidi Gassama, the speedy ex-PSG starlet who played with Messi & Mbappe and took Europe by storm Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) RANGERS look to have found a solution to their winger problems in the form of Djeidi Gassama. And while the pacy forward is only 21 years old, he already has plenty of invaluable experience. 4 Djeidi Gassama impressed for PSG in the Uefa Youth League Credit: Getty 4 He's been Sheffield Wednesday's main man Credit: Getty 4 He was at PSG at the same time as Lionel Messi, Neymar and Kylian Mbappe Credit: Getty Rangers have been on the lookout for reinforcements in the wide area, particular after the end of key man Vaclav Cerny's loan spell. Gassama has emerged as a central target and he's close to signing on for Russell Martin's squad rebuild. While it's with Sheffield Wednesday where he's properly burst onto the scene, Gassama spent three years with French giants Paris Saint-Germain. Born in Mauritania, Gassama got his first major break when he joined the youth system at Brest in 2018. A year later, he got his switch to PSG and penned a professional contract the very next year. Progressing to in and around the first team, Gassama was at the French giants during a particularly star-laden spell for the club. A certain Lionel Messi was there at the time - not to mention Kylian Mbappe and Neymar just to name another couple. While top team opportunities at PSG would prove hard to come by, Gassama was linked with a move to another giant of European football. Ultimately, it wouldn't materialise. A loan spell with Belgium in Eupen was followed by his switch to England two years ago. Winger deal ON, but is it Conor Coady Plus is Jamie Vardy a target Gassama has gone on to become one of the Owls' shining lights in a tricky period for the club. SunSport has the lowdown on the man who looks set to become the Gers' new wing recruit. Djedi Gassama's fledgling career The speedy winger was born in Mauritania on September 10, 2003. But he moved to France at a young age. The youngster's fledgling football career began with AS Carrieres Gresillons, AS Poissy and FC Mantois. He began to catch the eye of France's bigger sides and joined Brest in 2018. Just a year later, he was snapped up by the country's top club, Paris Saint-Germain. He's also been capped twice by France's under-20 side. Cutting his teeth with Messi & co Gassama would make just the one senior appearance for PSG. It came in the penultimate game of the 2021/22 season during a thumping 4-0 away win over Montpellier. The then-teenager came off the bench, replacing Argentina superstar Angel Di Maria. He subsequently shared the field with both Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe. It was the only time Gassama would be on the pitch with those superstars. Neymar was also on the books of a particularly star-studded PSG side at the time. Gassama revealed he was feeling the pressure when he made his debut - and reckons he had to work extra hard given who his teammates were. But he's adamant working alongside such greats of the game has made him an even better player. He said: "When I was at PSG, I always thought to myself I had to work twice as hard because my colleagues were Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar. "My thoughts were that if you want to be the best, you have to compete with the best. "I was under a bit of pressure when I made my debut at Montpellier that day. I told myself that I had to make a good impression, I had to play like I did with the Under 19s and be relaxed. "I tried to feed off the pressure I felt. "Even if the star players were focused on their training and didn't really have time to talk to us, you still had to make a good impression at PSG. "PSG spotted me when I was playing for Brest youth and I seized the opportunity. Djeidi Gassama's numbers Sheffield Wednesday's player of the year for 2024/25 Most-fouled player in English Championship in 2024/25 (110 fouls won) Fifth most dribbles completed in the division (66) More touches in opposition box than any other Sheffield Wednesday player (153) Seven goals in 43 appearances in the league "Put simply, when you play and train with these guys, you simply must improve as a player and I believe I have. "It was an incredibly high level for me." Taking Europe by storm The Uefa Youth League is a competition that's seen some of Europe's top young stars flourish on the continental stage. Gassama was one of the key stars of the 2021/22 season of what is effectively the youth version of the Champions League. With five goals, he was one of the top scorers in the competition. PSG finished top of their group in the opening phase, with Gassama their star man. He scored twice in a 4-1 away win over RB Leipzig before another double helped PSG beat Man City in England. PSG's run would end at the quarter-final stage with Gassama having struck five goals. His impressive form in the competition saw Borussia Dortmund linked with a swoop for his signature but no move to Germany materialised. The most fouled player in the Championship Gassama left PSG in 2023 and was snapped up by Sheffield Wednesday. He has become one of the club's key players during what's developed into a turbulent spell. The Ows are currently gripped in a crisis with several players set to move on due to the fact they're still waiting to be paid their wages. While some players are reported to have handed in their notice to the club, Gassama is understood to want to leave on better terms. The winger was named the club's player of the year last season. 4 Despite the off-field issues, Wednesday managed to finish 12th in the Championship under Danny Rohl and finished well clear of the relegation zone. Gassama was a huge part of that. He proved their most dangerous player, finishing top of their rankings for touches in the opposition box, dribbles completed, fouls won and progressive carries. Only three teammates created more chances while Gassama had the second most shots of anyone in the Wednesday squad. He finished the campaign with seven goals, a higher tally than his expected goals of 5.9. Gassama's tricky wide play caused the rest of the Championship's defence problems. He was the most fouled player in the ENTIRE league last season. Gassama also ranked fifth for the most dribbles in the division. Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page
Daily Mirror
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
David Beckham's gesture to Inter Miami players speaks volumes about Man Utd icon
Manchester United and Real Madrid icon David Beckham may be one of the most recognisable faces on the planet, but he still has time for all of his players at Inter Miami Inter Miami star Ian Fray has revealed that club co-owner Sir David Beckham is always there for his players, regardless of their standing in the squad. Beckham made waves in 2018 when he founded the Major League Soccer side. Since their inception, Inter Miami have built a squad that boasts several high-profile names, most prominently World Cup-winning legend Lionel Messi. He's been joined by his former Barcelona team-mates Jordi Alba, Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets. Such is Beckham's hands-on approach, he is often seen at Miami's training facility and frequently attends games. His focus isn't just on the team's household names, however. According to Fray, Beckham makes time for everyone and even goes as far as offering an on-call service of sorts for his players - a gesture that simply says it all about the recently knighted Manchester United icon. "Yeah, he's good," Fray told Mirror US Sports. "He's been here quite a few times and he says hi to everyone in the morning. If you want something, you can go and ask him at any time. He gives you his number so you can text him if you need anything. He's a great guy." It's been a huge week for the 50-year-old, with the former England captain recognised for his services to sport and charity in King Charles' Birthday Honours list. Last Friday, the ex-PSG man became Sir David. Yet the former Real Madrid winger's dedication to his club was on full display once again just hours later. He was in attendance for Miami's Club World Cup opener at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, a day on from receiving his honour from King Charles in London. Speaking to DAZN on the day of the game, Beckham said: "'It's been an emotional week I must admit. For me and for my family. It's obviously very special. It's a huge honour, but one that has been shared with myself and my family and so, it's been emotional." Miami have been drawn in a group with Egyptian outfit Al Ahly, Brazilian side Palmeiras, and Portugal's FC Porto at FIFA's revamped Club World Cup. Before kicking off their campaign with a disappointing 0-0 draw against Al Ahly on Sunday, Fray expressed his belief that they can make an impact in the tournament. "We had a really strong week of practice last week, it's been super hot here. I think we are definitely ready," the 22-year-old said. "Once we heard we were in from even last year, we were looking forward to this. Everyone looks at MLS as a lower league - we want to go in and make a statement and show that we can hang with whoever." Miami will now come up against Porto on Thursday as they bid for their first win of the competition. The Club World Cup also features Premier League sides Chelsea and Manchester City. Enzo Maresca's team get their campaign underway on Monday evening against Los Angeles FC. Pep Guardiola's team meet Moroccan outfit Wydad Casablanca on Wednesday afternoon.
