FOOTBALL

Nkunku Completes Leipzig Medical as Deal Nears

Christopher Nkunku, AC Milan and RB Leipzig
25 August 2026

Christopher Nkunku has completed the second part of his medical with RB Leipzig after AC Milan and the German club agreed a paid loan. The deal is worth €3 million and includes an option to buy for slightly below €30 million.

Nkunku travelled to Germany and underwent his initial tests before completing the remaining medical checks. A three-year contract is prepared if Leipzig later activate the purchase option, while the forward is expected to sign the loan agreement after his medical.

Aston Villa Open Rafael Leao Transfer Talks

Aston Villa, AC Milan and Rafael Leao
25 August 2026

Aston Villa have opened negotiations with AC Milan over Rafael Leao, with the Portugal international reportedly open to a Premier League move. Milan are said to value the winger at around €50 million plus another €10 million in bonuses.

The clubs have entered direct communication with Jorge Mendes involved, although Villa have not yet submitted a formal offer. Milan are under no immediate pressure to sell, leaving Villa to decide whether to turn their early talks into a concrete bid.

Lille Close In on Paraguay Keeper Gill

Orlando Gill, Lille and San Lorenzo
25 August 2026

Lille are close to finalising the signing of Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill from San Lorenzo for about €3.8 million covering 50 percent of his economic rights. Gill rejected an approach from Monza and pushed for the move to France.

The 26-year-old arrives with a heightened profile after his 2026 World Cup performances, including two shootout penalty saves against Germany. Lille moved ahead of rival interest as Gill sought a first move into European club football.

Everton Seek More Events at Hill Dickinson

Everton and Liverpool Council
25 August 2026

Everton have formally asked Liverpool Council to double the number of full-capacity non-sporting events permitted at Hill Dickinson Stadium from four to eight each year. The club wants its new waterfront home to operate as a larger multi-use entertainment venue.

Everton’s planning submission argues that more concerts would strengthen Liverpool’s live-music offer, tourism and visitor economy while football remains the stadium’s primary use. The current permission allows only four such events, despite reported interest from event promoters.

Saudi Arabia Confirmed for 2027 Gold Cup

Saudi Arabia and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation
25 August 2026

Saudi Arabia will participate in the 2027 CONCACAF Gold Cup, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation has confirmed. It will be the Green Falcons’ second consecutive appearance after reaching the quarter-finals on their tournament debut in the 2025 edition.

The federation said the invitation will expose the national team to different footballing styles and build international experience. CONCACAF will announce host cities, stadiums and the full fixture schedule after qualification for the 16-team tournament concludes next March.

Ethiopia Announces Bid to Host 2028 AFCON

Ethiopia and the Ethiopian Football Federation
25 August 2026

The Ethiopian Football Federation has announced its intention to bid to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations. The report says the tournament host remains undecided and CAF had not yet received an official bid at the time of publication.

Ethiopia previously staged the competition in 1962 and 1976 and won the title on home soil in 1962. The announcement puts Ethiopia forward as an early prospective host while Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania prepare to stage the 2027 edition.

Jed York Legal Case Ends With Sentence

Jed York, Leeds United and Rangers
August 2026

Jed York, co-owner of Leeds United and Rangers according to the supplied reporting, was arrested in Ohio after responding to a fake prostitution advertisement used in a police sting. The original solicitation charge was later reclassified.

York pleaded not guilty to disorderly conduct and possession of criminal tools, but the report says he received two days in prison and a $1,150 fine. The NFL said it was aware of the matter and would review it.

Dalglish and Carney Receive PFA Merit Awards

Sir Kenny Dalglish, Karen Carney and the PFA
25 August 2026

Sir Kenny Dalglish and Karen Carney have received the Professional Footballers’ Association’s 2026 merit awards, recognising their lasting contributions to football. The honours were announced ahead of the PFA Awards ceremony in Manchester, where the main player awards will follow.

Dalglish was recognised after an elite playing and managerial career alongside major charitable work, while Carney’s honour reflects achievements for club and country plus her work in broadcasting and the independent review of domestic women’s football.

Tottenham Sign Savinho From Man City for £75m

Savinho, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City
25 August 2026

Tottenham have signed Brazil winger Savinho from Manchester City for an initial £75 million, with a further £10 million possible in add-ons. The 22-year-old has agreed a long-term contract after Spurs revived a pursuit that began last summer.

Savinho had limited Premier League starts for City last season and chose Tottenham after speaking with Roberto De Zerbi. His arrival adds another major attacking option to a Spurs squad that has already undergone extensive summer recruitment.

Napoli Prepare €15m Bid for Marc Guiu

Napoli, Chelsea and Marc Guiu
25 August 2026

Napoli are preparing a permanent bid worth about €15 million to €16 million plus performance bonuses for Chelsea striker Marc Guiu. The Italian club have identified the young Spaniard as their priority attacking target for the closing days of the transfer window.

Napoli view Guiu as an option for both immediate depth and longer-term development, while Chelsea are willing to discuss attacking departures. The proposed package represents a concrete move rather than general interest as Napoli work to reshape their forward options.