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Eberechi Eze looks set to receive the sustained run in Arsenal’s starting XI that he has been waiting for after Bukayo Saka’s latest injury setback.

The England international has struggled to establish himself as an automatic starter under Mikel Arteta this season, starting just once in Arsenal’s opening seven Premier League matches.

But with Saka now facing weeks on the sidelines, the 28-year-old has suddenly been handed a major opportunity to change the direction of his season.

Eze is set for extended run at Arsenal

According to Football Insider, Eze is expected to receive more starts following Saka’s quadriceps injury.

Eze has scored twice since the international break, including an excellent goal after replacing Saka just 10 minutes into Arsenal’s 2-2 Champions League draw with Bayern Munich.

Football Insider reports that Arteta remains impressed by Eze despite his limited league starts and does not believe there has been a major concern over the player internally.

Saka, meanwhile, missed Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Everton, with Arteta confirming that the winger is likely to be sidelined for “weeks”. Swelling around the affected muscle has made the exact recovery period difficult to establish.

Eze remains happy at Arsenal and has no intention of looking for a move despite his reduced role.

Eze finally has the chance to make himself indispensable

This feels like a crucial period for Eze.

His talent has never really been questioned. The bigger issue has been finding a defined role in Arteta’s structured system.

At Crystal Palace, everything often went through Eze. At Arsenal, he shares attacking responsibility with Saka, Martin Ødegaard and several other creative players.

Saka’s absence changes the equation. Eze now has an opportunity to start regularly, build rhythm and prove he can influence games without needing the freedom he enjoyed at Palace.

His goals against Lille and Bayern suggest confidence is already returning. The next step is consistency.

If Eze delivers during Saka’s absence, Arteta may face a very different problem once his star winger returns: finding a way to keep both players in the starting XI.

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Trent Alexander-Arnold has no immediate intention of exploring a return to Liverpool despite losing ground in the battle for regular football at Real Madrid.

The 28-year-old has endured an uneven second season in Spain and is currently behind Federico Valverde in José Mourinho’s right-back plans.

That has naturally sparked speculation about an emotional return to Anfield, but the latest information suggests both Alexander-Arnold and Liverpool remain focused elsewhere.

Trent wants to fight for Madrid place

According to Football Insider, Alexander-Arnold is expected to stay at Real Madrid and continue fighting for his place rather than pushing for an immediate Liverpool return.

The former Reds vice-captain has started only three of Madrid’s opening nine La Liga matches this season and has struggled to establish himself consistently under Mourinho.

However, he remains under contract until 2031 and is still considered part of the manager’s plans.

Liverpool’s position is similar. The club are not currently pursuing a reunion, despite ongoing uncertainty at right-back.

Liverpool are not interested in making an emotional move for Alexander-Arnold at this stage, even though his limited minutes in Madrid have reopened discussion around his future.

Alexander-Arnold has previously admitted that Liverpool still means a great deal to him, saying he continues to watch the club and wants them to succeed.

Liverpool reunion would be an emotional decision

The appeal of bringing Alexander-Arnold back is obvious.

He is a Liverpool academy graduate, remains one of the best long-range passers in world football and understands the club better than almost any external target. But the footballing case is less convincing.

Liverpool already have Ronald Araujo, Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley competing on the right, while Andoni Iraola’s system places enormous physical and defensive demands on full-backs.

Alexander-Arnold could still transform games creatively, but he would not automatically solve Liverpool’s wider defensive needs.

There is also the emotional baggage from his 2025 exit. Some supporters reacted badly to his decision to run down his contract before moving to Madrid, and any return would reopen that debate.

For now, the most sensible outcome is for Trent to keep fighting in Spain while Liverpool continue evaluating younger options.

A reunion may never be impossible, but neither side appears ready for it yet.

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The post Just in: Trent Alexander-Arnold makes Liverpool decision amid increasing speculation appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Crystal Palace are reportedly drawing up contingency plans over Pierre Sage’s future, with former Tottenham striker Robbie Keane among the managers being considered if the club decide to make a change.

Sage arrived at Selhurst Park in the summer after guiding Lens to second place in Ligue 1, but his transition to English football has been difficult.

Palace are 17th in the Premier League after eight matches, with only two wins and five defeats, while defensive problems have become particularly concerning.

Tottenhan icon Keane among potential replacements

According to talkSPORT, Palace are assessing several possible replacements as pressure increases on Sage.

Keane is among the names being discussed alongside Sean Dyche, Thomas Frank and Vitor Pereira.

Palace’s latest setback was a 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle United, with supporters booing the team at the final whistle. The Eagles have now conceded a league-high 19 goals, highlighting the scale of the defensive problems Sage has been unable to solve.

The pressure surrounding Sage is also reflected elsewhere. CaughtOffside reported that Dyche has emerged as another leading option, with Palace increasingly considering whether they need a more experienced Premier League coach to stabilise the team.

Keane, meanwhile, is available after leaving Ferencváros, where he averaged just over two points per game across his spell in Hungary.

Keane would be a bold gamble at the wrong time

Keane is an intriguing candidate because of his reputation, personality and recent success abroad.

But Palace’s current situation may demand something very different.

They are struggling near the relegation zone, conceding far too many goals and dealing with growing frustration from supporters. That normally points towards a manager with proven experience of stabilising Premier League teams rather than someone taking his first job in England.

Keane could eventually become a strong Premier League coach, but asking him to walk into a difficult relegation battle would represent a significant gamble.

That is why Dyche or Frank may currently look safer.

Sage deserves some sympathy because he inherited a squad undergoing major change, but results are now becoming difficult to ignore.

Palace may not have made a final decision yet, but the fact several replacements are being actively discussed suggests his margin for error is shrinking quickly.

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The post Tottenham hero in shortlist to replace Sage at Crystal Palace appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Bruno Fernandes’ future at Manchester United is becoming increasingly uncertain, with AC Milan now reportedly monitoring the situation ahead of the January transfer window.

The 32-year-old has been at the centre of growing tension after publicly questioning United’s tactical approach following the 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como.

Michael Carrick then left his captain on the bench for Sunday’s 3-0 loss to Bournemouth, fuelling speculation that the relationship between player and club is beginning to fracture.

Milan are watching Man United star Fernandes

According to Calciomercato, AC Milan are keeping a close eye on Fernandes and could explore a January move if he becomes available.

Ruben Amorim is understood to be keen on a reunion with his former United captain, while the midfielder himself is said to be increasingly unhappy with how things are developing at Old Trafford.

Fernandes’ criticism of United’s tactics after the Como defeat was significant. He argued that the team were not pressing aggressively enough and were giving opponents too much confidence and space.

Carrick later insisted his decision to drop Fernandes against Bournemouth was purely football-related rather than disciplinary.

There is also uncertainty over his contract. Football Insider reports that his current deal expires next summer, although United hold an option to extend it by a further year and have discussed a new agreement.

January exit does not seem impossible

A January transfer still feels difficult because Fernandes remains one of United’s most productive players.

Since Carrick first took charge in January, Fernandes has registered 14 assists and created 96 chances, more than any other player across Europe’s top five leagues over that period.

But football relationships can deteriorate quickly.

If Fernandes believes the club’s direction no longer matches his ambitions, and United decide they need a younger midfield core, January could become the first realistic opportunity for both sides to separate.

Milan would offer a major European stage and a familiar manager in Amorim, but wages and transfer cost would still be significant obstacles.

For United, the bigger question is whether this is simply a temporary dispute during a poor run or the beginning of the end for one of the most influential players of the post-Ferguson era.

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The post Euro giants to rescue Bruno Fernandes after breakdown of relationship with Man United appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool are reportedly considering a major move for Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite as they continue planning for the long-term future of their defence.

The 24-year-old has enjoyed an impressive start to the season and has forced his way back into the England picture, while Liverpool are increasingly aware that Virgil van Dijk cannot remain the centrepiece of their back line forever.

Branthwaite’s age, Premier League experience and left-sided profile make him an obvious candidate.

Football Insider reveals Branthwaite interest

According to Football Insider, Liverpool admire Branthwaite and could make a move in 2027.

Everton are in an extremely strong negotiating position. Branthwaite signed a new contract running until 2030, and the club continue to value him at around £80million.

Liverpool have already been watching him closely. A separate Football Insider report claimed scouts have been monitoring his performances as the Reds assess left-footed centre-backs capable of eventually replacing Van Dijk.

Manchester United remain serious rivals for his signature after failing with two bids in 2024, while Everton are reportedly determined not to sell unless an exceptional offer arrives.

Branthwaite fits the profile Liverpool are looking for

From Liverpool’s perspective, is it easy to see why they are interested in the England international defender.

Branthwaite is young, left-footed, physically dominant and already proven in the Premier League. He is also comfortable defending large spaces, which is essential for a team that wants to play with a high defensive line.

The complication is the Merseyside rivalry. Everton would be particularly reluctant to strengthen Liverpool directly, and that could push the price even higher than £80m.

Liverpool therefore have to decide how much value they place on Premier League certainty.

Other targets such as Nico Schlotterbeck, Alessandro Bastoni and Murillo may offer different strengths, but Branthwaite carries very little adaptation risk.

If Van Dijk leaves next summer, Liverpool will need more than potential. They will need a defender capable of stepping into a huge role immediately.

Branthwaite fits that description better than most.

The deal would be expensive and difficult to pull off, but if Liverpool genuinely view him as a long-term defensive leader, this may be one transfer worth testing Everton’s resolve over.

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The post Liverpool will have to spend £80m to beat Man United to the signing of rival defender appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Several Premier League clubs are reportedly monitoring Brighton & Hove Albion forward Charalampos Kostoulas.

The 19-year-old Greek attacker has made a strong impression since moving to English football, and his rapid development has now attracted interest from some of the biggest clubs in the Premier League.

Charalampos Kostoulas attracts Premier League interest

Kostoulas joined Brighton from Olympiacos last summer and initially had to settle for a limited role. However, he has started to establish himself as an important player for the Seagulls this season, and his performances have attracted plenty of attention.

According to a report from 4-4-2, Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea and Newcastle United are all monitoring the young forward. Chelsea were already interested in Kostoulas before his move to Brighton, but he ultimately opted to continue his development on the south coast.

The Greek international has now taken another step forward, and his recent performances have underlined why so many clubs are keeping a close eye on his progress.

Kostoulas has the qualities required to develop into a modern number nine. His physical presence, movement and finishing make him a difficult opponent for Premier League defenders, while he can also contribute to build-up play.

Kostoulas’ future at Brighton

Brighton are unlikely to make it easy for interested clubs to sign their young forward. His contract currently runs until 2030, and the Seagulls regard him as an important part of their long-term plans.

No concrete negotiations are underway at this stage, but his performances could lead to more serious approaches in the future.

Brighton is reportedly considering a fee in the region of €60-70 million, which would represent a significant investment for any potential suitor.

Inter Milan are also said to be interested in the striker, meaning competition for his signature could increase considerably if he continues developing at his current rate.

The post Arsenal, Man United and Chelsea join race for €70m-rated Premier League star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool are reportedly keen to sign Club Tijuana midfielder Gilberto Mora.

The 17-year-old has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in Mexican football, and his performances for club and country have attracted significant attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs. Liverpool are now among the Premier League sides closely monitoring his situation.

Gilberto Mora attracts Liverpool interest

Mora enjoyed an impressive breakthrough at the 2026 World Cup with Mexico, further enhancing his reputation on the international stage. His technical ability, creativity and composure in possession have made him an attractive long-term option for clubs looking to invest in young talent.

Liverpool have already expressed interest in the attacking midfielder and have previously made contact about a potential move. However, they are facing substantial competition for his signature, with several European heavyweights also keeping tabs on his development.

Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich are among the clubs reported to be interested, while Borussia Dortmund and Benfica have also been proactive in pursuing the Mexican youngster.

Tijuana are in a strong position because Mora is under contract until 2029, meaning they have no immediate pressure to sell their prized asset. TEAMtalk claims his valuation could exceed €40 million, making him a significant investment for any interested club.

Where does Mora’s future lie?

Liverpool could view Mora as a long-term project rather than someone expected to make an immediate impact at Anfield. His rapid development suggests that his value could continue to rise, particularly after his impressive start to the current Liga MX campaign.

Mora has already scored five league goals this season, underlining the attacking qualities that have made him such a highly sought-after prospect.

It remains to be seen whether Liverpool will step up with a concrete offer, but the Reds clearly face a major battle if they want to win the race for one of Mexico’s brightest young talents.

The post Liverpool show serious interest in €40m-rated attacking star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing the Bayer Leverkusen defender Miguel Gutiérrez.

According to a report from Fussball News, Manchester United are monitoring the 25-year-old defender’s development, and they could look to make a move in the near future.

Man United could use Miguel Gutierrez

Manchester United have been linked with several left-backs in recent months. It is clear they want to add quality in that area of the pitch. Luke Shaw is in the twilight stages of his career, and they need to replace him properly. The 25-year-old defender could prove to be an interesting acquisition.

Meanwhile, the 25-year-old defender came through Real Madrid’s ranks, and they are monitoring his development as well. It would not be a surprise if they decided to make a move for him. The player joined the German club from Napoli last summer for €26 million. They are under no pressure to sell him, and Manchester United might need to come forward with an exceptional offer to get the deal done.

Can Man United sign Gutierrez?

Manchester United have the resources to pay a premium, and it remains to be seen how the situation develops. They are looking to build a team capable of competing for major trophies. They need to plug the weaknesses in their squad, and adding more depth to the defensive unit would be a wise decision.

The opportunity to play in the Premier League with Manchester United will be exciting for Gutierrez, and it would be a step up for the defender. He would get to test himself at the highest level. Regular football in England could help him improve further and fulfil his potential. Meanwhile, he has a contract with the German club until 2031, and he could cost around €60 million.

The post Man United face competition from Real Madrid for €60m-rated Bundesliga defender appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Virgil van Dijk’s Liverpool future is becoming a major talking point, with Real Madrid reportedly considering a free-transfer move when the captain’s contract expires at the end of the 2026-27 season.

The 35-year-old remains a hugely important figure at Anfield, but his situation has added to the sense of transition around Andoni Iraola’s squad.

Liverpool have already lost several experienced players in recent windows, and allowing their captain to leave for nothing would represent another significant change.

Real Madrid considering Van Dijk free transfer

According to Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid are one of several clubs monitoring Van Dijk ahead of next summer.

The report says Liverpool have not yet offered him another extension, with AC Milan, Galatasaray and Inter Miami also mentioned as possible destinations.

Van Dijk’s current agreement dates back to April 2025, when Liverpool confirmed that he had signed a new two-year contract. That deal keeps him at Anfield until June 2027.

Madrid’s interest would fit a familiar recent pattern. Ibrahima Konaté left Liverpool when his contract expired this summer before signing a four-year deal at the Bernabéu.

Trent Alexander-Arnold is also already at Madrid, although his 2025 transfer was completed by agreement with Liverpool before his contract formally expired. Real Madrid

Van Dijk remains Liverpool captain this season, with Alisson Becker, Joe Gomez and Dominik Szoboszlai named among Iraola’s vice-captains.

Liverpool should avoid repeating mistakes of the past

Liverpool have a delicate decision to make.

Van Dijk is 35, so offering another long contract would carry obvious risk. But his importance goes beyond defending.

He is still the senior figure in a back line that has already lost Konaté and Andy Robertson, and replacing that experience in one summer would be extremely difficult.

Real Madrid would also be an attractive destination. Van Dijk could reunite with Konaté and Alexander-Arnold, while José Mourinho is reportedly interested in another centre-back.

For Liverpool, the key is timing. If they intend to keep their captain, talks should not drift deep into 2027. If they instead believe this is the right moment to move on, they need a clear succession plan in place well before next summer.

A free transfer may make sense financially for Madrid, but Liverpool must decide whether losing another major leader for nothing makes sense for them.

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The post Liverpool face Van Dijk decision as one of the top clubs in the world target free agent move appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Graeme Souness believes Liverpool should be part of any discussion about redistributing trophies if Manchester City ultimately lose titles as punishment for their financial-rule breaches.

Liverpool finished one place behind City in three extremely tight Premier League races, 2013/14, 2018/19 and 2021/22, losing those championships by a combined four points.

However, no decision has been made to remove trophies or retrospectively award championships to runners-up.

The debate has intensified after the Premier League officially confirmed that an independent commission found City guilty of serious financial breaches covering 2009/10 to 2017/18, as well as three of four charges concerning failure to cooperate with the investigation.

City deny wrongdoing and intend to appeal.

Souness says Man City should give up titles

Speaking on Track Radio, Souness argued that financial punishment alone would not adequately address what has happened.

“The legacy is gone. If it goes the wrong way for them, they’ll be consigned to history as cheats, and whatever they did, whatever they won in that period, should not count.

“There’s an argument for Liverpool to have a couple of Premier Leagues given to them. For them [City] to be stripped of whatever they’ve won in that period of time.

“For them, money’s not an issue, so whatever fine is just like a scratch on the surface. Relegation [as an option]… I don’t know, but I come back to it, I think this is going to open a can of worms, which I think may go well beyond the realms of football.”

The important detail is that the commission’s confirmed serious breaches relate specifically to 2009/10 through 2017/18. City’s 2013/14 title falls inside that period, whereas their 2018/19 and 2021/22 championships came later.

Stripping titles would create another difficult question

Souness raises the issue Liverpool supporters will naturally ask, but taking trophies away and awarding them elsewhere are two separate decisions.

The Premier League has not announced City’s punishment, and Reuters reports that possible sanctions could include fines, points deductions or relegation. City are also expected to appeal, potentially extending the process considerably.

Even if titles were removed, there is no automatic guarantee Liverpool would be declared champions retrospectively.

That makes Souness’ comments significant as part of the wider debate rather than an indication of what the Premier League will actually do. The sanction hearing and City’s appeal, will ultimately determine whether past trophies become part of the punishment at all.

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The post Man City have been told to surrender their league titles to another Premier League club appeared first on CaughtOffside.