'Plan Endrick' – Kylian Mbappe injury forces Xabi Alonso to launch 'desperate' Real Madrid tactic in fight to save job against Man City

Kylian Mbappe's injury has forced Xabi Alonso to launch a 'desperate' Real Madrid tactic in the fight to save his job against Manchester City. Alonso could turn to out-of-favour forward Endrick in the absence of their star attacker. The Frenchman was absent from Los Blancos' open training session the day before the game against Pep Guardiola's side at the Bernabeu.

Injury scare for Real Madrid ahead of Man City clash

A day before Madrid's crucial Champions League fixture against Premier League giants Manchester City, star forward Mbappe missed the club's open training session, alongside compatriot Eduardo Camavinga. While Alonso did not mention anything about injuries in his squad, in the training session following the manager's pre-match press conference, Mbappe was a notable absentee. 

Spanish radio station also reported that the France international had suffered an injury in his left leg, making him a serious doubt for the game with City at the Bernabeu.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesMbappe's injury major blow for Alonso

Mbappe has been Los Blancos' standout player in the 2025-26 campaign, with 25 goals across La Liga and the Champions League, plus four assists. He is also on course to break Cristiano Ronaldo's record for the most goals for Real in a calendar year. The Frenchman has been responsible for half of the team's goals in the Spanish top flight and a remarkable 75% of their goals in Europe's top competition, netting a stunning four strikes in his last continental outing against Olympiacos. 

Head coacg Alonso is under huge pressure following Madrid's dismal 2-0 defeat at home to Celta Vigo on Sunday, which also saw Alvaro Carreras and Fran Garcia sent off and key defender Eder Militao hobble off with a muscle injury that is set to keep him out for up to four months. The loss meant that their gap with league leaders Barcelona increased to four points. Alonso's side have won just two of their last seven games in all competitions.

Alonso focusing on Endrick

With Mbappe out injured, reported on Tuesday that the Madrid boss paid special attention to out-of-favour forward Endrick in the training session and even individually spoke to the Brazilian, something he never did since joining the club in the summer. 

The special attention towards the attacker clearly indicates that the youngster is likely to feature in the club's matchday squad to face City on Wednesday, which has been dubbed 'Plan Endrick'. If Endrick starts against the English giants, it will happen for the first time this season. If he comes off the bench, he would feature in a game for the first time since November 1, when he played a few minutes in the club's win over Valencia.

Other than Endrick, another forward option for Alonso ahead of the City clash is Gonzalo Garcia. The Spaniard has played more minutes than Endrick this season and is likely to get the preference ahead of the Brazilian in the European clash.

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Getty Images SportWill Endrick leave Madrid in January?

Endrick has been linked with a temporary move away from Madrid since the start of the new season and the player's frustration has only grown after repeatedly being ignored by Alonso. With just over six months left for the 2026 World Cup to start, the youngster is naturally desperate for game time and could consider moving away from the Bernabeu.

Endrick's father recently showed his support by writing on social media: "I know, my son, how hard you work and how much you dedicate every minute of your day. I know everything you're capable of. You're a winner and you're showing everyone that you're a true warrior. Your star will continue to shine, even though some try to dim your light. I believe your future lies right there."

It remains to be seen now how many minutes Endrick manages to accumulate in Mbappe's absence in December and depending on his opportunity, the teenager will take a final call on his future.

Umran is worried about his body, but won't compromise on his speed

“Speed is my biggest strength, and I want to continue to maintain that strength,” Umran Malik, who is making his comeback from a hip injury, says

Rajan Raj07-Dec-2025Umran Malik will not compromise on his speed. It’s his “identity” and his “natural ability”, and though he is on a comeback trail after over a year out with injuries – a hip issue the last – he will keep bowling as fast as he can since it’s a point of difference between him and other quicks in the country.”Every fast bowler in the world knows that injuries are going to be a part of his career. But speed is my natural aspect. How can I compromise with that? Speed is my biggest strength, and I want to continue to maintain that strength,” Malik told ESPNcricinfo on the sidelines of Jammu and Kashmir’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy match against Hyderabad in Kolkata on December 4.”You can’t bowl at 150(kph) straight away. You reach that speed gradually. I don’t want to show my speed to anyone, but I want to show my wickets. But it is also that after ten years [of bowling at a competitive level], I want to bowl at 140 [from 150] and not come down to a speed of 130 from 150.”Before turning out in the latest edition of the Ranji Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy tournaments, Malik had last played in in March 2024 in the IPL that year, for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) against Mumbai Indians (MI). He was with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2025 but could not play a single match.

“Money is not a concern. The first and last thing is that my fitness and form should be such that I play every match for the team and take wickets. If I can’t do this, then what will be my value as a player?”Umran Malik

Coming back from a serious injury takes a toll on the body as well as on the mind, and Malik’s focus has changed a bit now.”After spending time at NCA [BCCI’s Centre of Excellence] and talking to many experts, I have started to understand my body better,” he said. “I now know what things need to be managed better if I want to avoid injury.”Though KKR have let go of a number of their players, including some big-ticket stars, Malik has been retained ahead of IPL 2026.”I know that for many Indian fast bowlers, it is not that difficult to be part the IPL. It’s probably easy for me too, but I’m not just thinking of taking part in the tournament,” he said. “Money is not a concern. The first and last thing is that my fitness and form should be such that I play every match for the team and take wickets. If I can’t do this, then what will be my value as a player?”I will work as hard as I have to. I will learn where I make mistakes. I will take care of myself and want to make my comeback memorable.”Those who have watched him bowl this season have found a slightly different Malik, who has maintained his speeds while also appearing to bowl within himself a bit.At present, Malik’s eyes are focused solely on the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, but it is with an eye on the future, starting with the IPL.

Fewer touches than Perri & only 5 passes: Leeds flop must now be dropped

Leeds United secured a superb 3-3 comeback against Liverpool at Elland Road last night to make it four points in the space of a week against big six opposition.

Daniel Farke’s men fell two goals behind just minutes after the break after a Hugo Ekitiké double, but it only seemed to spur the side on to get back into the Premier League clash.

Goals from Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Anton Stach restored parity before Dominic Szoboszlai’s 80th-minute effort looked to have finally handed the visitors three points.

However, it wasn’t meant to be, with the Whites’ never-say-die attitude rewarding them a point, after Ao Tanaka beautifully volleyed home from a corner in the 96th minute.

Despite the impressive fightback against the Reds in Yorkshire, numerous players struggled to impress throughout the clash, which could put their starting roles at huge risk.

Leeds’ poor performers against Liverpool

Jayden Bogle has been Leeds’ number one right-back so far this campaign, but his showing against the Reds was arguably one of his worst of the season to date.

The Englishman was withdrawn with just a minute left in the clash, after giving possession away 11 times, with two occasions coming when trying to take on an opponent.

He also failed to win any tackles against Cody Gakpo, whilst only coming out on top in 25% of the ground and aerial duels he entered against the defending champions.

Bogle wasn’t alone in struggling within the back five, with centre-back Joe Rodon having an uncharacteristically poor performance in the Premier League.

The Welsh international’s misplaced pass handed the ball on a plate for Ekitike to fire home and help the visitors establish their two-goal cushion early in the second half.

He also only managed to win 50% of the aerial battles he entered in the defensive third, but thankfully, he was bailed out by Tanaka for his struggles in stoppage time.

The Leeds star who needs to be dropped after Liverpool

If Leeds are to stay up in the Premier League this season, their ability to get themselves off the canvas on a regular basis could play a massive role in any successful survival attempt.

Few sides in the league would be able to get themselves back within striking distance of sides who possess the quality of Liverpool, with Farke deserving huge credit after such a result.

The German wasn’t afraid of making key changes at crucial parts of the game, with his triple change in the 65th minute seeing Tanaka score, whilst Wilfried Gnonto won the penalty for Calvert-Lewin’s strike.

Brenden Aaronson was also on hand to provide the goods, with the American registering the assist for Stach’s strike – which restored parity for the first time in the meeting.

However, Noah Okafor was just one of the players sacrificed for the aforementioned trio, with the attacker potentially now fearing for his starting role in Yorkshire.

The Swiss international lasted just over an hour before being replaced, but his stats from his time on the pitch showcase how lacklustre his showing at Elland Road was.

He was only able to complete a total of five passes in his 65-minute showing – an average of one every 13 minutes – with his small frame unsuited to the counter-attacking nature in the first half.

Minutes played

65

Touches

14

Passes completed

5

Dribbles completed

1

Aerials won

0

Shots on target

0

Possession lost

4x

Fouls committed

1

The 25-year-old tried his best to make an impact on the transition, but largely struggled against the Reds’ backline – as seen by his tally of just one dribble completed.

Okafor also failed to win any of his aerial battles, something which is hardly a surprise given his stature – but also coming up against the likes of Virgil van Dijk.

To top off his disappointing display, he only registered a total of 14 touches during the draw, with goalkeeper Lucas Perri making nearly three times more with his tally of 43.

After such a performance, Farke will be left with no choice but to drop the Swiss international, with the trio off the bench certainly deserving of a start after their impact in the second half.

It’s certainly not a bad call for the manager to make, especially with the recent form creating competition for places – something that will be vital if they are to secure survival.

Leeds now make contact over signing "powerful" star who's been likened to Odegaard

He’s a wanted man.

ByTom Cunningham Dec 6, 2025

Jacob deGrom Posts Stunning Career First in Rangers Outing Monday

Jacob deGrom, the two-time Cy Young Award winner, completed an unfortunate career first on Monday during the Texas Rangers' game vs. the Toronto Blue Jays.

For the first time in his 12-year career, deGrom didn't record a strikeout during the game, according to MLB's Kennedi Landry. He's been able to strike out at least one batter in all 228 games he played in before Monday.

The Rangers starter finished Monday's outing pitching 5 1/3 innings with five hits, two earned runs and two batters walked—and, of course, zero strikeouts.

The streak began during his first MLB start on May 15, 2014. It's an impressive feat for an MLB pitcher to record this many consecutive games with at least one strikeout. There's been 53 pitchers to have at least 200 consecutive games with at least one strikeout. deGrom's longstanding streak places him 34th all-time among MLB pitchers in history, according to .

In 2025 so far, deGrom's thrown 62 strikeouts through 11 games. He's posted a 2.42 ERA over 63.1 innings pitched, surrendering 47 hits and 17 runs. It's definitely not a bad season for deGrom by any means, and has marked a solid bounce-back year for the 36-year-old. He only started in nine games over the past two seasons after undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2023.

Barcelona confirm Fermin Lopez injury blow with midfielder missing key La Liga and Champions League matches

Barcelona have confirmed a fresh injury setback as midfielder Fermin Lopez has been ruled out for around two weeks with a soleus problem in his right leg. The midfielder, who has been key for Hansi Flick this season, will now miss crucial La Liga and Champions League clashes. His absence arrives just as Pedri nears his return, reshaping the midfield picture during a demanding run of fixtures.

Barcelona lose midfield mainstay

Barca have confirmed that midfielder Lopez will miss the next two weeks after suffering a minor injury to the soleus muscle in his right leg during Thursday’s training session. It is a major setback for Hansi Flick, who had only just received good news with Pedri cleared for a return against Alaves. 

The club explained in a statement that the midfielder "has a small injury to the soleus muscle in his right leg, and his estimated recovery time is around two weeks.”

The timing is damaging for Flick, as this lay-off rules Fermin out of key La Liga and Champions League fixtures after a heavy 3-0 defeat against Chelsea. And, now the midfielder is expected to miss matches against Alaves, Atletico Madrid, Betis and Eintracht Frankfurt, and it remains uncertain whether he will recover in time to face Osasuna on December 13, only two days after the predicted recovery window ends.

AdvertisementAFPInjury sustained in Athletic Club clash

Fermín had been enjoying a strong season and recently reached 100 appearances for the first team. While highlighting his contribution. His availability had been particularly valuable at a moment when Barca are visibly struggling in the midfield marked with injuries, making this injury even more disruptive for Flick’s squad planning.

Beyond the medical report, the context of Fermin’s injury offers insight into why his absence could weigh heavily on the team. reported that the midfielder is still dealing with the effects of a forceful challenge suffered against Athletic Club, a tackle from Oihan Sancet that resulted in a red card for the Bilbao player. Despite continued discomfort, Fermin pushed himself to start Barca’s Champions League match at Stamford Bridge, where the team suffered a heavy defeat.

He played just over an hour before being substituted, and the accumulated strain appears to have contributed to Thursday’s setback in training. This latest issue marks his second injury of the season and arrives at a time when Barca’s injury list had finally begun to shrink, with only long-term absentees Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Gavi still out.

Pedri returns but midfield still a challenge for Flick

While the loss of Fermin is a concern, Barca did receive a boost in the form of Pedri’s recovery. The midfielder trained normally on Thursday and is expected to be available for the Alaves clash. His return offers Flick more options and could allow the club to manage workloads more carefully, particularly after the intense calendar that has carried the squad into physical fatigue.

Pedri’s return also opens the door for Dani Olmo to reclaim a starting role in attacking midfield, especially with Flick keen to rotate and protect key players. Fermin’s absence had already influenced Tuesday’s lineup in London, where Barcelona struggled without midfield balance and control.

This period demands careful squad management, with Barca chasing ground in La Liga following their Champions League setback. Flick must now rely on the depth of his midfield, including Pedri, Olmo and Frenkie de Jong to navigate the next two weeks.

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Getty Images SportWhat next?

Fermin is expected to miss at least four matches, most importantly a key matchup when Atletico Madrid visit Camp Nou, and the crucial Champions League clash against Eintracht Frankfurt. 

Should recovery go as planned, the midfielder could return around December 13, which places Osasuna at home as his earliest realistic comeback match. However, Barcelona will not rush him, especially given the recurring nature of soleus injuries. But, the club will hope the setback lasts no longer than the two-week window and that the young midfielder returns in time for a crucial December period.

Newcastle battle Arsenal to sign star for less than £50m after scouts sent

Newcastle United have reportedly sent scouts to watch an “amazing” player this summer, as they look to snap him up for a relatively low fee in today’s terms.

Newcastle set to battle Arsenal on and off the pitch

Eddie Howe’s side make the trip to Arsenal in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, in what represents a massive game for the Magpies for two key reasons. Most importantly, a win at the Emirates would seal Champions League football for Newcastle, which would be significant, but they would also overtake the Gunners into second place behind Liverpool. That would highlight the incredible job Howe continues to do, following the EFL Cup triumph earlier in the season.

Speaking on It’s Called Soccer, Jamie Carragher has predicted an entertaining contest in north London this weekend, backing the Magpies to come away with a point.

The importance of Champions League qualification for Newcastle cannot be downplayed, in terms of the quality of players that could sign this summer, and an exciting new rumour has now emerged.

Newcastle send scouts to watch "amazing" star

According to the reliable Craig Hope of The Daily Mail, Newcastle have sent scouts to watch Borussia Dortmund youngster Jamie Gittens, as well as goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.

The Magpies see the former as a possible option to add to their attack and the report states that his release clause “will fall from £50m” if Dortmund fail to qualify for the Champions League, which is on the cards. They are one point adrift of the top four heading into the final game of the campaign this weekend, which has also prompted interest from Arsenal.

Borussia Dortmund's Jamie Bynoe-Gittensin action with Lille's Bafode Diakite

Gittens is an incredibly exciting talent, so the idea of Newcastle beating the Gunners to his signature this summer is a mouthwatering prospect. The 20-year-old has already scored 17 goals for Dortmund in 105 appearances, also chipping in with 14 assists, and scout/writer Jacek Kulig has hailed him as an “amazing” player.

Predominantly a left-sided attacking player but capable of playing across the attacking line, Gittens could battle Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes for minutes, and given his age, he should only develop as a footballer under Howe.

Approach made: Newcastle now in contact to sign "incredible" £8m+ colossus

The Magpies have made a move for a new signing, who could be available on the cheap this summer.

1 ByDominic Lund May 15, 2025

The fact that Newcastle could sign him for under £50m means he could also be a steal, so Magpies supporters will be rooting for Dortmund to fail to reach the Champions League this weekend.

Celtic chiefs now very interested in 6ft 4in giant and have received reply

Celtic are already probing for reinforcements this summer and have now set their sights on a talented gem who could offer a towering presence at Parkhead, per a report.

Celtic look to kickstart summer transfer business

The Bhoys are marching towards the end of the season in style and could finish the campaign with a domestic treble should they defeat Aberdeen at Hampden later this month.

Brendan Rodgers has once again shown his managerial prowess, domestically and in the Champions League, which he will hope can help his case in earning significant backing from the Hoops’ hierarchy this summer.

Celticmanager BrendanRodgerscelebrates with the trophy after winning the League Cup

Looking ahead to the window, Celtic could make a surprise move for Aberdeen goalkeeper Ross Doohan to help fill their homegrown quota for European competitions next term.

Scott Bain could leave Parkhead in search of first-team football, and the Lennoxtown academy graduate fits the bill as a club-trained asset ready to step in.

Sarpsborg winger Sondre Orjasaeter is also on the list at Parkhead, though it remains to be seen whether Celtic will firm up interest in the Norwegian once the window opens for business.

"Very good" £3 million Brendan Rodgers signing now wants to leave Celtic

The Bhoys could offload him this summer…

BySean Markus Clifford May 5, 2025

Despite excitement over potential arrivals, Celtic aren’t assured of their place in next year’s Champions League league phase and need to navigate the final qualifying round to certify a spot in the competition.

Nevertheless, speculating to accumulate has to be the aim for the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. They have enough money in the bank to make a statement, so expect some exciting new faces to strengthen Rodgers’ talented group.

Casting an eye to the continent, Celtic are now in the mix to sign a towering young defender who could add further strength to their backline.

Celtic very interested in signing Veljko Milosavljevic

According to Max Sport, Celtic are ‘very interested’ in giant Red Star Belgrade defender Veljko Milosavljevic as Rodgers looks to add further solidity heading into next season.

For now, the Bhoys have been told the 17-year-old isn’t for sale, which is a stance that could change as clubs from England and France position themselves to sign the Serbia Under-19 international, who stands at 6ft 4.

Veljko Milosavljevic’s season for Red Star Belgrade – all competitions

Appearances

28

Goals

0

Assists

3

Prioritising the future, Celtic are always in the market for talent with sell-on value. While experience is always a bonus, the scope to develop stars of the future is a major avenue towards the club earning significant capital to reinvest.

Carrying the ball from deep, Milosavljevic has completed an average of 1.9 dribbles per match in the Serbian top-flight, illustrating a degree of comfort in possession that would fit Rodgers’ high-octane tactical framework.

Nevertheless, growing competition for his signature will leave Celtic with work to do as they look to convince another prodigious star to commit their future at Parkhead.

The thought of winning regular silverware and competing in European football may well be a tempting one for Milosavljevic, but you get the impression he will also need first-team guarantees.

Arteta's next Havertz: Arsenal make enquiry to sign £52m "monster"

The striker situation at Arsenal has been a nightmare for boss Mikel Arteta for many months now, unable to rely upon his two senior options for the majority of the campaign.

Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus have missed a combined 28 Premier League games between them, with the pair currently sidelined with hamstring and knee issues respectively.

Mikel Merino and Leandro Trossard are just two of the players who have been tasked with filling the void at the top end of the pitch, with the latter scoring three goals in his last two outings.

As a result, it’s a surprise to no one to see the hierarchy already targeting attacking reinforcements to help Arteta in his quest to win the title in 2025/26.

Numerous players have already been hugely touted with a switch to the Emirates during the upcoming window, certainly improving the options available at the manager’s disposal.

The latest on Arsenal’s pursuit for a new striker this summer

Ever since the appointment of sporting director Andrea Berta, it’s been clear to everyone who Arsenal’s number one target is to become their new talisman this summer.

The former Atlético Madrid man has already held talks with the representatives of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres over a switch to join the Gunners in the coming months.

Sporting CP's ViktorGyokerescelebrates scoring their third goal to complete his hat-trick

The Swedish international could be available for a fee in the region of £60m this window, a potential bargain given his record of 48 goals and 11 assists in his 47 outings this season to date.

However, another name has emerged on their shortlist in the form of Chelsea forward Christopher Nkunku, potentially making a shock move across the capital to join Arteta’s side.

According to French outlet RMC Sport, the Gunners have made an enquiry over a potential move for the former £52m signing, who could leave Stamford Bridge this summer.

Why Nkunku could become Arteta’s next Havertz

As previously mentioned, Arsenal forward Havertz is currently on the sidelines through injury, with Arteta missing one of his key talismen within the final third.

The German joined the club in a £65m deal from Chelsea back in the summer of 2023, with supporters unsure of where his best position would be at the Emirates.

However, his record of 29 goals in all competitions during his two years in North London is evidence that he’s more than capable of featuring as the club’s central striker.

His absence has been felt throughout the last few months, with the likes of Merino featuring in an unnatural position to make up the numbers whilst he continues his recovery.

Arteta could land another version of the German international this summer should they complete a deal for Nkunku, with the Frenchman following in a similar vein in joining from Chelsea.

He’s also come into question about which position suits his playstyle the best, but has still managed to outperform Havertz in numerous key areas in the Premier League throughout 2024/25.

The former RB Leipzig star, who’s been labelled a “monster” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, may have registered fewer combined goals and assists, but has notched a higher shot-on-target accuracy rate – showcasing his clinical nature in the final third.

Games played

27

21

Goals scored

3

9

Shot-on-target accuracy

44%

40%

Pass accuracy

90%

78%

Shot-creating actions

3.3

2

Take-on success

37%

23%

Carries into final third

1.6

1.1

He’s also completed more of the passes he’s attempted, whilst completing more take-ons and achieving a higher tally of carries with the ball into the final third – highlighting the danger he poses with the ball at his feet.

It’s unclear how much their London rivals would demand for his services, but it could be a risk worth taking with the positives massively outweighing the negatives with the Frenchman.

He’s fallen massively out of favour in West London throughout this season, with Arteta having the opportunity to sign another one of the Blues’ stars and transforming them into a key player for their title charge next campaign.

He'd make Rice unstoppable: Arsenal preparing bid for "world-class" star

Arsenal could be about to make a move for one player who would play a huge role under Mikel Arteta.

1 ByEthan Lamb Apr 26, 2025

Arsenal table bid for £26m forward likened to Silva with exit decision made

Arsenal have made an offer to sign an “unpredictable” forward who’s drawn comparisons with Man City legend Bernardo Silva, with the player and his close circle reportedly already making a decision.

Andrea Berta's plans to sign new attackers for Arsenal

As per recent reports, the Gunners, now led by new sporting director Andrea Berta, could look to bring in a left-winger, right-winger and centre-forward as part of a potential £300 million summer spending spree (GiveMeSport).

Arsenal hold "high-level talks" to sign "bargain" attacker "in recent days"

Negotiations have apparently taken place this week.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 12, 2025

Berta has already held personal talks with the representatives of Spain international starlet Nico Williams, which occurred last week as one of his first acts in the job (Ed Aarons), and discussions have taken place more recently as well.

Brentford (home)

Today

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

April 23rd

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Journalist Pete O’Rourke reported on Thursday that Arsenal held “high-level” talks over a deal for Williams this week as well, but despite the 22-year-old’s reported £48 million release clause, there could still be problems when it comes to his overall package.

Other reports state that Williams wants around £250,000 per week to leave Athletic Bilbao, which would make him Arsenal’s third-highest earner behind Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, so this could still end up being a costly operation.

It is the task of Berta to scour far and wide for exciting wide options who will bolster Arsenal’s squad whilst also adhering to PSR and FFP regulations, so it is crucial Arsenal do not overspend in the market – especially if they want to strengthen other key areas.

South America has been a fruitful talent pool for the Gunners, with Gabriel Martinelli going on to be a major success following his bargain £6 million move from Brazilian side Ituano in 2019.

Arsenal scouts are reportedly aiming to replicate that success story, and they’ve got their eye on one promising young forward in particular – River Plate winger Ian Subiabre.

The 18-year-old is seen as one of Argentina’s most exciting up-and-coming forwards, with Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig, who compared him to Bernardo, also describing Subiabre as a “mobile” and “unpredictable” player with a penchant for “trickery”.

Arsenal make proposal for River Plate sensation Ian Subiabre

According to South American news outlet Soy del Millo, as relayed by Sport Witness, Arsenal have made an offer for Subiabre after glowing reports from the club’s scouts, but the exact nature of this bid is unclear.

What’s clear, however, is that River won’t let him depart for a penny less than his £26 million release clause. In any case, it appears they may have to wait for the player anyway, who’s already made a decision to remain at his current club.

The teenager’s family have been heavily involved in this, informing River of their desire for Subiabre to sign an extension despite offers from Arsenal and Chelsea.

While it was a “difficult” call for Subiabre and his close circle, it appears the priority right now is to further his development, which comes as a disappointment for Berta and co.

Tottenham eyeing Ange Postecoglou replacement who Jurgen Klopp really likes

Tottenham Hotspur are casting their eyes on a fresh new manager target, as under-pressure head coach Ange Postecoglou reportedly faces the potential sack this year.

Ange Postecoglou comments on future at Tottenham

Credible media sources are reporting that Postecoglou’s future is in real doubt, with Fabrizio Romano also stating that the 59-year-old is heavily relying on an impressive Europa League campaign to save his job.

Contact made: Tottenham targeting "exciting" manager likened to Pochettino

Spurs have reportedly approached his circle.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 2, 2025

Tottenham play Chelsea in their first game after the international break, and before the Lilywhites’ all-important London derby clash, Posfecoglou responded to speculation surrounding his tenuous position at the club.

Chelsea (away)

April 3rd

Southampton (home)

April 6th

Wolves (away)

April 13th

Nottingham Forest (home)

April 21st

Liverpool (away)

April 27th

The Australian admitted that there are plenty of outstanding candidates out there to take his place, if chairman Daniel Levy does decide to hand Postecoglou his P45, and he’s taken a seemingly relaxed view on his long-term stay – suggesting other job offers will emerge if Spurs opt to part company with him.

“I know what my responsibilities are. I’m sure if the club decide to go in a different direction, there are some outstanding candidates out there for it,” said Postecoglou on his future at Tottenham.

“And you know what, maybe somebody will think, ‘Ah Ange Postecoglou’s not a bad coach, maybe we’ll take a punt on him’.

“It doesn’t rock my world, it doesn’t consume me. I am here and passionate about what we are doing. I was brought in to change the way the club plays, rejuvenate the squad and bring success. I am focused on that and that’s what I’ll keep doing.”

This comes amid news that Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola is Tottenham’s number one managerial target to potentially succeed Postecoglou (The Athletic), with other candidates like Fulham’s Marco Silva and Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi also under consideration (Fabrizio Romano).

Another tactician who’s impressed lately, now finding his way onto Spurs’ radar, is Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner.

The Austrian recently booked an FA Cup semi-final spot with Palace after a big 3-0 win over Fulham at Craven Cottage, with the Eagles set for a trip to Wembley as they seek to make history and win their first ever major trophy.

The south Londoners have enjoyed an excellent run of form in the league as well, ending the season strongly, but Glasner stands to lose a host of key players this summer.

Marc Guehi is attracting serious summer interest as he enters the final 12 months of his contract, among others, so Glasner could well be tempted to jump ship if a suitable offer arrives.

Tottenham eyeing Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner

According to The Boot Room and journalist Graeme Bailey, Tottenham are admirers of Glasner amid their hunt for a potential new manager, but they’re not alone as RB Leipzig have their eyes on the 50-year-old as an heir to Marco Rose.

Their head of Global Soccer, ex-Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp, is also said to “strongly” like Glasner as an option. Palace, meanwhile, know what they must do to fend off interest in their growingly popular head coach.

Glasner wants assurances that they will try and push on to become European regulars, and is seeking clarity about star midfielder Adam Wharton’s future, as he’d like to keep the England international for another 12 months at least.

While Palace are hopeful of tying the former Eintracht Frankfurt boss down with a new deal, they’re also making contingency plans in the event he departs Selhurst Park this summer.

Called an “underrated” manager by sections of the media, Glasner was interestingly considered by Spurs as Antonio Conte’s successor, before Levy eventually decided to appoint Postecoglou.

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