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Kai Havertz made Premier League history in the perfect setting, scoring Arsenal’s winning goal at Anfield while becoming the highest-scoring German player the competition has ever seen.

The 27-year-old struck after just 16 minutes to secure Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Liverpool, ending the Gunners’ 14-year wait for a Premier League win at Anfield.

More significantly on a personal level, the goal took Havertz to 46 Premier League strikes, moving him clear of former Manchester City midfielder İlkay Gündoğan.

Havertz overtakes Gündoğan Anfield winner

Havertz’s simple back-post finish made history, with Declan Rice providing the decisive delivery.

Opta confirmed that Havertz is now the Premier League’s all-time leading German goalscorer with 46 goals, surpassing Gündoğan’s previous record of 45.

Of those goals, 19 came during his time at Chelsea and 27 have now been scored for Arsenal. His Anfield winner was also his third Premier League goal of the current season.

Kai Havertz is now the top German-scorer in Premier League history https://t.co/lWpXBt0sI5

— Prime Video Sport UK (@primevideosport) November 1, 2026

The occasion made the record even more memorable. Arsenal had not won a league game at Anfield since September 2012, but Havertz’s early finish proved enough to send Mikel Arteta’s side back to the top of the Premier League, three points ahead of Manchester City.

Arsenal punished Alisson Becker’s costly distribution error before Havertz finished the move.

German star continues to justify Arteta’s faith

“Absolutely brilliant from Arsenal.”

Kai Havertz gives Arsenal an early lead at Anfield! https://t.co/eeyhRcLlel

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) November 1, 2026

Havertz’s Arsenal career has often been debated, but milestones like this show just how productive he has become.

He is not always the most spectacular forward, and his finishing can still frustrate, but 46 Premier League goals is a major achievement considering he has spent significant periods playing in midfield rather than as a conventional striker.

The timing of this goal also matters.

Arteta selected Havertz ahead of Viktor Gyökeres for one of Arsenal’s biggest away games of the season, and he repaid that faith with the decisive moment.

Breaking Gündoğan’s record at Anfield while ending Arsenal’s long winless run there makes the achievement even more significant.

Havertz may still divide opinion, but statistically he now stands above every other German goalscorer in Premier League history and at 27, he has plenty of time to extend that record further.

Arsenal defender heavily criticised by Neville for ‘absolutely embarrassing’ reaction

The post Arsenal star Kai Havertz makes Premier League history with Liverpool winner appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool have not held talks about bringing Trent Alexander-Arnold back to Anfield, with Fabrizio Romano making it clear that neither the defender nor Real Madrid are currently planning a January separation.

The 28-year-old has endured a difficult spell in Spain and has struggled to reproduce the influence he had at Liverpool.

Injury problems affected his first season at the Bernabéu, while he is now competing with Federico Valverde and Denzel Dumfries for minutes under José Mourinho.

Romano dismisses Alexander-Arnold return talk

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano directly addressed the growing speculation surrounding a potential Liverpool reunion.

He said: “The reality, guys, behind the scenes is quite different.

“First of all, let me clarify links between Trent and Liverpool for a potential comeback are completely out of mark in the sense that Liverpool never started any kind of concrete or serious conversation to bring Trent Alexander-Arnold back to the club. First point.

“Second point. In general, about Trent Alexander-Arnold returning to the Premier League or leaving Real Madrid in any case – that’s not something that Trent is planning for the January transfer window or Real Madrid either.

“So, at the moment, Trent and Real Madrid plan to continue together at least, at least until the end of the season.

“And in reality, the feeling from both sides is that they want to continue together for the long term.”

Romano’s update strongly contradicts recent suggestions that Liverpool could be positioning themselves to re-sign their former academy star.

A related CaughtOffside report also stated that Alexander-Arnold remains focused on proving himself in Madrid rather than immediately seeking an escape route.

Liverpool reunion talk for Alexander-Arnold is premature

The links are easy to understand. Alexander-Arnold spent almost his entire career at Liverpool before moving to Madrid, and his passing range and creativity remain qualities the Reds could use.

But there is a major difference between an emotional reunion making sense on paper and Liverpool actually working on a deal.

Romano’s information suggests there is currently no serious movement whatsoever.

That also makes sense from Alexander-Arnold’s perspective. Leaving after such a short period would effectively mean admitting his Real Madrid move had failed, something he is unlikely to do while he still believes he can win Mourinho’s trust.

Liverpool have also developed other options on the right side of defence, meaning any return would need to make tactical and financial sense rather than simply appeal to nostalgia.

For now, Alexander-Arnold appears determined to stay and fight.

Unless his playing time remains limited deep into 2027, talk of a Liverpool comeback looks more like speculation than an active transfer possibility.

Liverpool left angry as Iraola changes stance after controversial VAR call 

The post Romano addresses speculation linking Alexander-Arnold to romantic Liverpool return appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are preparing for direct talks with Lisandro Martínez’s representatives as uncertainty surrounding the defender’s future continues to grow following his disastrous red card against Chelsea.

The 28-year-old is entering the final months of his existing contract, although United possess an option to extend the agreement until 2028.

With Martínez’s performances, recent criticism of the club’s hierarchy and disciplinary issues all under scrutiny, the next few weeks could determine whether his Old Trafford career continues.

Romano confirms Martínez talks are coming

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano provided a detailed update on the Argentina international’s situation.

Romano said: “I am receiving many questions regarding Licha’s future because Lisandro went very strongly against the Manchester United directors and the board after the Atletico Madrid game. Then Lisandro did not perform particularly well over the recent weeks, including the red card against Chelsea.

“So, it is not an easy moment for Lisandro Martínez in general. His contract runs until June 2027, meaning the end of this season. Man Utd have a club option to extend his contract until 2028, ensuring they do not lose any value in terms of the player’s valuation.

“What is going to happen, guys. Will Man Utd exercise the option or not? Will they continue with Licha or not? What is going to be the future of Lisandro Martínez?

“The answer I am getting is that this month, over the next days and weeks, there will be direct contacts between Lisandro Martínez’s camp and Manchester United to assess the situation and consider all the possibilities.

“Whether to exercise the option, whether not to exercise the option, whether he leaves the club or whether he stays. There will be discussions on several points, including his behaviour, performances, future and contract.

“So, talks are expected to follow regarding the future of Lisandro Martínez because this is going to be a big decision for Manchester United.

The timing could hardly be worse for Martínez. His two quick bookings against Chelsea contributed heavily to United’s 2-0 defeat and extended Michael Carrick’s winless run to nine matches.

United could already be prepared to cash in on Martínez amid interest from Barcelona and Atlético Madrid.

Man United have a big decision to make

United are approaching a difficult but important decision.

Martínez has previously been one of their defensive leaders, but his public criticism of the hierarchy and recent performances have changed the conversation.

Allowing him to reach the end of his contract without protecting his value would make little financial sense. United could trigger the extension and still sell him in 2027.

This is already being considered precisely to prevent the club losing a valuable asset for nothing. That does not necessarily mean Martínez has a long-term future at Old Trafford.

It simply gives United control.

Given Atlético and Barcelona’s reported interest, extending first and deciding on a sale afterwards may be the most sensible solution unless Martínez can quickly rebuild trust through his performances and discipline.

Man United consider shock sale of influential player rather than risk free transfer exit 

The post “There will be direct contacts” – Romano confirms Man United are ready to talk to defender appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool have received a potentially significant boost in their pursuit of Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara, with Chelsea now understood to have abandoned plans to revisit a deal for the Senegal international.

Camara came extremely close to joining Chelsea on deadline day in the summer, but Monaco pulled the plug late in negotiations despite agreements having been reached.

Chelsea have now decided to move on and prioritise Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott instead, leaving Liverpool with a clearer route towards Camara.

Chelsea have moved on from Camara

According to Football Insider, Chelsea no longer plan to pursue Camara and are instead focusing their January efforts on Scott.

Transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke explained that Scott is now ahead of Camara on Chelsea’s list and is the deal they would most like to complete when the window opens.

That is good news for Liverpool. The Reds have retained strong interest in Camara and recently contacted his representatives, asking to be kept informed about his situation at Monaco. A January move is not guaranteed, but Liverpool are now regarded as one of the best-placed Premier League clubs to sign him.

CaughtOffside has also reported that Camara and Scott sit high on Liverpool’s midfield shortlist, while Chelsea’s decision to prioritise Scott could effectively separate the two clubs’ transfer plans.

Liverpool could benefit from this Chelsea stance

This development should be welcomed by Liverpool.

Camara fits the profile Andoni Iraola appears to want in midfield: young, athletic, press-resistant and capable of playing both as a deeper midfielder and in a box-to-box role.

The biggest issue may now be Monaco rather than competition from Chelsea. Camara is contracted until 2029 and remains an important starter, so Monaco have little reason to accept a discounted January offer. Reports suggest a deal could require compromises from Liverpool, the player and Monaco.

Still, removing Chelsea from the race changes the picture considerably.

Liverpool were previously competing against a club that had already come within hours of signing Camara. Now Chelsea are concentrating on Scott, while Liverpool can focus more directly on the Monaco midfielder.

If the Reds genuinely see Camara as one of their leading 2027 midfield targets, this may be the opening they were waiting for.

Liverpool star slammed by Jamie Carragher for ‘embarrassing’ Arsenal incident 

The post Liverpool could benefit from Chelsea U-turn in race for Ligue 1 superstar appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are reportedly weighing up whether to sell Bruno Fernandes next summer rather than risk losing their captain for nothing when his current contract expires.

Fernandes is tied to Old Trafford until June 2027, although United retain an option to extend that deal by another 12 months.

That clause gives the club an important safety net and could become central to how they handle one of the biggest decisions of their 2027 transfer planning.

Sale is now a genuine option for Man United

According to the Daily Mail, United are considering whether to negotiate fresh terms, trigger the one-year extension or cash in on Fernandes before his value drops further.

A report relaying the Mail’s latest information states that United are not prepared to overpay to keep the 32-year-old and could ultimately decide a sale makes more financial sense.

That would represent a significant shift from the summer, when United were publicly insisting Fernandes was not for sale. Talks over a new contract had also begun, but no agreement has been reached.

Recent report has suggested United are seriously considering activating the extra year in Fernandes’ contract specifically to protect his transfer value before potentially selling him in summer 2027.

Extending before selling would be the logical move

Man United cannot afford to mishandle this situation.

Fernandes remains one of their most influential players, and Michael Carrick publicly reaffirmed only days ago that the captain is still fully committed despite their recent disagreement.

But sentiment cannot override basic squad planning. If United genuinely believe Fernandes could leave in 2027, allowing him to walk away for free would be poor business. Activating the extension would immediately strengthen their negotiating position and give them more control over the process.

There is already outside interest, with Atlético Madrid, AC Milan, Juventus and Galatasaray among the clubs previously linked.

The bigger question is whether United should sell at all.

Fernandes still creates more than almost anyone else in the squad, and replacing that influence would be expensive. But at 32, with the club considering another rebuild, this may be the last realistic opportunity to generate a meaningful fee.

Triggering the option first, then reassessing next summer, looks like the safest route.

Just in: Man United star could seek another move if minutes remain limited 

The post Man United consider shock sale of influential player rather than risk free transfer exit appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal have taken advantage of a costly mistake by Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker to strengthen their position in a crucial Premier League encounter, with Kai Havertz finishing off a well-worked attack.

The Brazilian goalkeeper made a disastrous decision while attempting to play the ball out from the back, allowing Arsenal to regain possession in a dangerous area. The Gunners quickly recognised the opportunity and punished Liverpool for their defensive carelessness.

KAI HAVERTZ OPENS THE SCORING FOR ARSENAL AT ANFIELD!

Liverpool 0-1 Arsenal. https://t.co/Ln6OmrgPbb

— Tekkers Foot (@tekkersfoot) November 1, 2026

Alisson Becker error gifts Arsenal opportunity

Liverpool have built much of their playing philosophy around controlling possession and initiating attacks from deep, but Alisson’s decision-making proved costly on this occasion.

The goalkeeper tried to distribute the ball under pressure but failed to find a teammate, giving Arsenal an immediate chance to attack. Although the visitors still had plenty of work to do, they showed excellent composure to turn the mistake into a goalscoring opportunity.

Arsenal moved the ball towards the right flank before working it into a dangerous position inside the penalty area. The Liverpool defence struggled to recover, allowing Kai Havertz to arrive in space and finish with ease.

Liverpool punished for Alisson mistake

Former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock slammed the Liverpool goalkeeper for his mistake, which could prove costly.

Warnock told the BBC: “A disaster for Liverpool and a disaster from Alisson. He makes an awful mistake as he tries to play the ball out. It entices Arsenal and allows them to jump on Liverpool. There is still a lot to do from then. They work it on the right side and it’s a simplest of tap ins from Havertz.”

It remains to be seen whether Liverpool can bounce back strongly and get back on level terms against the defending champions.

The post Former Red slams ‘awful’ mistake from Liverpool star against Arsenal appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Real Madrid are reportedly growing increasingly confident of signing Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel ahead of the January transfer window, with the Spanish giants making significant progress in their pursuit of the highly-rated teenager.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Real Madrid believe they are in a strong position to secure the 16-year-old’s signature, despite competition from Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich.

JJ Gabriel could leave Manchester United for Real Madrid

The youngster has emerged as one of the most exciting prospects in Manchester United’s academy, attracting attention from several European heavyweights with his impressive performances at youth level.

However, his future at Old Trafford has become increasingly uncertain after he formally requested to leave the club in September. United have tried to convince him to reconsider, but those discussions have so far failed to produce a breakthrough.

His representatives, led by influential agent Ali Barat, are now exploring opportunities elsewhere, with a move to Spain considered an attractive option for the teenager.

Real Madrid and Barcelona have both held positive discussions with his camp, but Los Blancos are increasingly optimistic about winning the race. Their ability to offer him a pathway towards senior football could prove particularly appealing.

Manchester United face losing Gabriel

Losing Gabriel would represent a significant disappointment for Manchester United, who have invested considerable time in developing the youngster.

Michael Carrick’s side have tried to retain one of their brightest academy prospects, but his representatives are now working to secure a move away from England in January.

Barcelona remain interested, while PSG and Bayern Munich have also explored signing him. However, Real Madrid appear to have gained an important advantage in the transfer battle.

Any potential move will remain subject to the relevant FIFA regulations and registration requirements.

With January approaching, United face an increasingly difficult task to change Gabriel’s mind. Real Madrid will now hope to turn their growing confidence into an agreement and secure one of Europe’s most highly-rated young attacking talents.

The post Real Madrid grow confident after making progress in their pursuit of Man United player appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal are reportedly keeping a close eye on Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi after the youngster made an impressive return to action following a lengthy injury absence.

According to a report from Football Insider, the Gunners remain interested in signing the 20-year-old, and his recent performances may have encouraged them to revive their pursuit ahead of the January transfer window.

Eli Junior Kroupi attracts Arsenal interest

The French youngster has emerged as one of the most exciting attacking prospects in English football after making an impressive impact during his debut Premier League campaign.

Kroupi scored 13 goals in 33 league appearances last season, demonstrating his finishing ability and attacking instincts. However, a foot injury sustained during pre-season disrupted his progress and prevented him from completing a move away from Bournemouth during the summer.

His return against Leeds United reminded everyone of his considerable potential. Coming off the bench for 22 minutes, the forward produced an excellent no-look assist for Amine Adli and completed three successful dribbles.

Arsenal could benefit from adding another talented attacker to their squad. Mikel Arteta needs greater depth and competition in the final third, and Kroupi’s technical ability, movement and versatility could make him an excellent long-term investment.

Bournemouth demand huge fee for Kroupi

However, convincing Bournemouth to sanction his departure will not be straightforward. The Cherries are reluctant to lose one of their most promising players mid-campaign.

Kroupi remains under contract until 2030, and Bournemouth reportedly demanded more than £80 million for his services during the previous transfer window.

Arsenal could also face competition from Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain, who have previously been linked with the youngster.

The Gunners may therefore have to wait until the summer before making a serious attempt to secure his signature. Nevertheless, Kroupi’s impressive return to action has given Arsenal another reason to continue monitoring his development.

The post Arsenal face Tottenham competition for £80m-rated exciting young attacker appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United have been offered the opportunity to sign AS Monaco striker Folarin Balogun ahead of the January transfer window as Michael Carrick considers strengthening his attacking options.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, the Red Devils are among several Premier League clubs approached by the American striker’s representatives, with his future in France increasingly uncertain.

Folarin Balogun attracts Manchester United interest

The 25-year-old has endured a difficult period at Monaco after a proposed summer transfer to Everton collapsed. The former Arsenal forward reportedly became unhappy with questions raised during his medical and ultimately decided not to complete the move to Goodison Park.

His situation has worsened this season, with Balogun struggling to secure regular playing time under Monaco management. He has made just four substitute appearances in Ligue 1 and has been excluded from the club’s European squad altogether.

Young forward Paris Brunner has emerged as the preferred option up front, leaving Balogun’s future at the French club uncertain.

Manchester United could benefit from bringing in another centre-forward, particularly as they look to improve their attacking depth. Balogun’s movement, pace and ability to find the net could make him an interesting option for Carrick.

His representatives, led by Jorge Mendes, have already started exploring potential destinations, and United have been informed about his availability.

Manchester United face competition for Balogun

However, United are not alone in the race. Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta remains another option under consideration, while Everton have also been approached again after their previous attempt to sign Balogun collapsed.

Leeds United, Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest have also been made aware of the American’s availability. Italian giants Juventus are among the clubs contacted.

Monaco are reportedly willing to let the striker leave in January, giving interested clubs an opportunity to negotiate a potential deal.

United must now decide whether Balogun is the right solution for their attacking needs.

The post Man United face four-way competition from PL rivals for January striker deal appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Chelsea are reportedly determined to sign Barcelona defender Jules Kounde during the January transfer window, with Xabi Alonso keen to strengthen his defensive options at Stamford Bridge.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, the Blues have made the French international their priority target for the winter window and have already communicated their intentions to both the player and Barcelona.

Jules Kounde could be an ideal defensive addition

The 27-year-old has established himself as one of Europe’s most reliable defenders, showcasing his versatility by performing at right-back and centre-back.

However, his situation at Barcelona has become increasingly complicated under Hansi Flick. The defender has struggled to secure regular starting opportunities, with competition from Eric Garcia and Joao Cancelo limiting his involvement this season.

Chelsea believe his experience and defensive qualities could make him an excellent addition to their squad. Alonso is particularly keen to strengthen his options at right-back, while Kounde’s ability to play in central defence would add tactical flexibility.

The Spanish manager is reportedly prepared to contact the defender’s representatives personally to persuade him to move to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have admired Kounde since his time at Sevilla and previously came close to securing his signature in 2022, before Barcelona won the race for his services.

Chelsea face one major obstacle in Kounde pursuit

However, completing the transfer will not be straightforward. Barcelona are reportedly prepared to consider offers for the Frenchman, but their willingness to negotiate is dependent on the defender expressing a desire to leave.

According to Spanish journalist Juan Jesus, the Catalan giants have already been informed about Chelsea’s intentions, leaving the final decision largely in Kounde’s hands.

The defender remains under contract until 2030, meaning Barcelona are in a strong negotiating position.

Chelsea could therefore face a difficult transfer battle if they want to secure his services in January. Nevertheless, Alonso’s determination to bring him to London suggests the Blues are prepared to make a serious effort to complete the deal.

Kounde’s decision could prove crucial to Chelsea’s defensive plans for the second half of the season.

The post Alonso prepares personal approach as Chelsea step up pursuit of 27-year-old La Liga star appeared first on CaughtOffside.