FOOTBALL

Man United monitor Morgan Gibbs-White with £60m clause as Fernandes succession planning begins

Morgan Gibbs-White
February 2026

United are reportedly tracking Gibbs-White and could consider triggering a £60m release clause, with Fernandes’ long-term future still being debated. Reports say United want replacements who fit a new wage structure, while outside voices have also floated Cole Palmer as an ideal Fernandes successor; Gibbs-White’s recent output for Forest keeps him on multiple clubs’ radars.

Bodo/Glimt stun Inter at San Siro to reach Champions League last 16 for first time

Bodø/Glimt
February 2026

Bodo/Glimt eliminated Inter 5-2 on aggregate to reach the Champions League last 16 for the first time, winning 2-1 away after a 3-1 first leg. Inter controlled possession but Bodo punished mistakes, including an Akanji giveaway that led to another Hauge goal, then added a second through Evjen; Bastoni pulled one back too late.

Mbappe ruled out of Benfica second leg after knee issue in training despite Arbeloa optimism

Kylian Mbappé
February 2026

Mbappe is expected to miss Real Madrid’s Champions League play-off second leg vs Benfica after suffering knee pain in training. Reports say tests made it “impossible” for him to play, contradicting Arbeloa’s earlier claim that Mbappe was ready, leaving Madrid to defend a 1-0 first-leg lead without their star.

Antony breaks down after late miss as Betis settle for 1-1 draw with Rayo

Antony
February 2026

Antony was consoled after collapsing in tears when he missed a late opportunity, with Betis drawing 1-1 against Rayo Vallecano. The moment capped a high-emotion night for the winger, whose career arc has swung from an expensive Manchester United spell to a productive loan at Betis and then a permanent return, where he has been key in their push for Champions League places.

Benfica chief Rui Costa calls Prestianni suspension “unfair” amid Vinicius racism probe

Gianluca Prestianni
February 2026

Benfica president Rui Costa defended Prestianni after UEFA suspended him for one match while investigating allegations linked to an exchange with Vinicius Jr. Costa said he was not on the pitch to know what was said, insisted Benfica trust the player’s account, and argued it is wrong to label him before the process is concluded.

Lewandowski wants to stay at Barcelona despite MLS and Saudi interest as contract runs down

Robert Lewandowski
February 2026

Lewandowski reportedly prefers to remain at Barcelona rather than leave on a free transfer, despite a strong offer from Chicago Fire and Saudi interest. Reports say family and lifestyle factors are pulling him toward staying in Catalunya, and he wants clarity from Barca that his time is not “game over,” while Flick’s usage has also frustrated him at times.

Juventus lose faith in Di Gregorio and eye Premier League keepers Alisson and Vicario

Michele Di Gregorio
February 2026

Juventus are reportedly planning a goalkeeping overhaul after errors from Di Gregorio, with Alisson and Vicario among shock targets. Reports say Juve view Di Gregorio as a liability and could also see Perin push to leave and Pinsoglio consider retirement, triggering a broader reset while scouting proven, elite replacements.

Carrick plays down Martinez injury scare after Everton win as United keep rolling

Lisandro Martínez
February 2026

Michael Carrick said Lisandro Martinez picked up a minor issue in training and was left out at Everton; United still won 1-0 and stayed in strong form. Carrick said it “doesn’t seem too bad,” with sources suggesting a calf problem that could sideline Martinez up to two weeks. Yoro started alongside Maguire and United kept a rare away league clean sheet, with Sesko scoring late to secure the points.

Lisandro Martinez ruled out late with calf issue as United reshuffle at Everton

Lisandro Martínez
February 2026

Lisandro Martinez was pulled from the squad with a calf injury, with a short layoff expected. United sources said the issue could keep him out up to two weeks, ruling him out of Everton and likely Crystal Palace, with Newcastle “touch and go.” Yoro stepped into the lineup.

Yoro banned six months after 72mph in 30 zone as United absorb another defensive setback

Leny Yoro
February 2026

Leny Yoro was banned from driving for six months and fined after being caught at 72mph in a 30mph zone, pleading guilty. The court issued a £666 fine plus costs and surcharge, with his lawyer saying he was rushing to take a friend to a railway station and apologising.