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Leeds United are still searching for their next manager to lead the squad in their Championship campaign next season, and it has been reported that the search will enter its final stages this week ahead of making a decision.

The Whites parted company with their third-appointed manager of the season Sam Allardyce after suffering relegation from the Premier League last month and will be looking for the perfect manager to achieve automatic promotion over the 46-game campaign next season.

Former Leicester City boss Brendan Rodgers was one of the hottest prospects for Leeds and had been heavily speculated with a move to Elland Road, however, on Sunday evening it was confirmed that the 50-year-old coach will return to Scotland where he will reunite with Celtic upon agreeing a deal.

As a result, that ship has sailed for the 49ers, and now they must focus on other candidates who can provide the experience needed, improve the performances and boost the confidence of the Leeds squad, with a number of options still available on their short-list.

One coach who has been touted with a move to West Yorkshire and, like Rodgers, is Premier League proven is former Brighton and Hove Albion coach Graham Potter, who was sacked by Chelsea at the beginning of April.

Would Graham Potter be a good fit for Leeds?

There is no doubt that Potter is one of the most respected English managers in the game right now as his work at Brighton in developing the club into a Premier League established side is widely recognised.

Over his 143 fixtures in charge, the 46-year-old coach – hailed a "genius" by journalist Sam Morton – tallied up 43 victories and 43 draws, accumulating 172 points during his time on the south coast, which is an impressive achievement.

Even more impressive is Potter's ability to get the very best out of young and upcoming talent, playing an important role in the development of Moises Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister, Marc Cucurella, Leandro Trossard, Adam Webster and Tariq Lamptey – with all but Mac Allister being signed during Potter's reign.

As a result, the Englishman could be the perfect coach to polish and get the very best from the budding talent at Elland Road with the club boasting a number of exciting young players including Wilfried Gnonto, Joe Gelhardt, Crysencio Summerville and Tyler Adams.

With that being said, it would be a no-brainer to appoint Potter if the opportunity presents itself this summer as his experience would not only improve Leeds' chances of promotion but could seriously improve the young prospects at the club with a bright future ahead of them.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have been linked to a Premier League ace ahead of the transfer window, despite being forecast a treacherous financial battle.

Julen Lopetegui was hit with the news that the club were juggling issues of FFP in the build-up to the summer window, which will ultimately limit the Spaniard’s ability to spend considerably.

Wolves are in need of attacking options, ending the season as the league’s lowest scorers with just 31 goals in 38 goals, an area that must be strengthened this summer.

What’s the latest on James Ward-Prowse to Wolves?

The former Real Madrid could opt to add strike power to his side from areas beyond a traditional number nine, as Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse has been linked with a move to Molineux.

As reported by SunSport, Wolves are 'keen' on the Englishman, who has also accumulated interest from West Ham, Newcastle and rivals Aston Villa.

A separate report from The Sun claims that the Saints want £40m for the 28-year-old who has three years left on his current contract, an ‘optimistic valuation’ from the side that will play in the Championship next season.

What could James Ward-Prowse bring to Wolves?

The Englishman has been a shining light for Southampton in an abysmal campaign that ended in relegation, scoring nine goals and assisting four and featuring in every fixture – as per FBref.

The £100k-per-week Saints captain could depart this summer as a result of their demotion and would be a perfect fit in Lopetegui’s side, who are to lose Joao Moutinho following the expiration of his contract.

The Portuguese midfielder has been described as a “legend” by members of the media and will be sorely missed at Wolves, however, Molineux may not need to prolong his mourning, as Ward-Prowse could ease the woes of his departure.

The two are very similar players positionally, and when comparing their numbers this season, the Englishman could arguably be a better fit for Lopetegui’s plans going forward at Molineux.

As per Sofascore, the 27-year-old maintains an average passing accuracy of 85% per game, with the Wolves veteran following closely behind with 84%.

Ward-Prowse could fit the Spaniard’s plans to bolster the attack and replace Moutinho simultaneously, with him creating nine big chances to the Portugal midfielder’s three, as well as averaging 2.0 key passes to his 1.2 per game.

While the Englishman is more of a threat in the final third than the Wolves man, the Portsmouth-born maestro isn’t afraid to do the dirty work required in the engine room, as told by his 1.7 tackles and 1.4 interceptions per game, via Sofascore.

Goals are primarily what Lopetegui needs to add to his side, and the Saints skipper can contribute, ranking in the top 13% of midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues in terms of non-penalty goals, averaging 0.19 per 90 – as per FBref.

Once lauded by former coach Nathan Jones as “world-class”, Ward-Prowse has made 343 Premier League appearances for Southampton, which has equipped him with experience that cannot be bought.

For Lopetegui, there will be hope that the midfielder’s price tag may drop considering the Saints’ relegation which could make him a strong target for Wolves to sign this summer as a strong successor to Moutinho.

An update has emerged on Everton and their plans to potentially upgrade their squad in the upcoming summer transfer window…

What's the latest on Che Adams to Everton?

According to TEAMtalk, the Toffees are one of the clubs showing an interest in signing Southampton centre-forward Che Adams ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.

The report claims that the Scottish marksman is expected to secure a move away from St. Mary's in the coming months following his side's relegation down to the Championship.

It is stated that the 26-year-old is eager to continue playing in the Premier League and would like to seal a move back to the top flight, with Everton and Leeds among the teams eyeing up a possible swoop.

What is Che Adams' style of play?

The Scotland international is not a prolific striker who is likely to plunder over 20 goals for the Toffees in the Premier League but he is a hard-working number nine who defends from the front.

Sean Dyche could, therefore, unearth his new Ashley Barnes by swooping to sign Adams this summer as the English boss had great success with the former Austria U20 international during their time together at Burnley.

Barnes scored 42 goals in 200 Premier League appearances for the Clarets and added to his semi-regular contributions in the final third by being an excellent defender for the team.

In the 2020/21 campaign, when Dyche last managed to keep the Lancashire side in the top flight, the now-Norwich ace ranked in at least the top 47% of players in his position in the division for tackles, interceptions, blocks, clearances, and aerial duels won per 90.

This included him ranking in at least the top 12% for aerial duels and blocks per 90, respectively, and these statistics show that Barnes battled hard to cut out opposition attacks before they got further up the pitch.

Adams, who ex-boss Ralph Hasenhuttl dubbed a "ketchup bottle phenomenon" for his goal spurts, could fulfil a similar role for Dyche based on his performances for Southampton this season.

The £30k-per-week ace ranks in the top 49% or higher in his position in the Men's Big Five Leagues for tackles, interceptions, clearances, and aerial battles won per 90.

These statistics show that the forward, who has scored 12 Premier League goals since the start of last season, is an above-average defender in his position and he could lead the press from the front for Dyche in the same way that Barnes did for him at Burnley by making regular defensive interventions.

Therefore, Adams could be a dream signing for the Everton head coach this summer, as a striker who can chip in with goals and work his socks off for the team, and they must beat Leeds to his signature in the coming months.

تحدث الإيطالي روبرتو مانشيني المدير الفني لـ منتخب السعودية، عن توديع الأخضر منافسات بطولة كأس آسيا 2023 المقامة في قطر.

وودع منتخب السعودية نهائيات بطولة كأس أمم آسيا من دور الـ 16 عقب الخسارة من كوريا الجنوبية بركلات الترجيح 4-2.

كانت المباراة انتهت في وقتها الأصلي والإضافي بالتعادل الإيجابي بهدف لمثله.

طالع.. فيديو | السعودية تودع كأس آسيا بخسارة أمام كوريا الجنوبية بركلات الترجيح

وقال مانشيني خلال تصريحات عبر قناة “بي إن سبورت”: “هذه هي كرة القدم، لقد خسرنا بركلات الترجيح”.

وأضاف: “سعيد بالأداء الذي قدمه كل اللاعبين، قدمنا اليوم مباراة كبيرة أمام واحد من أفضل المنتخبات في العالم”.

وأتم: “علينا أن نستريح الآن، لأننا نستحق ذلك، وبعد ذلك سنستعد جيدًا للمرحلة التأهيلية لكأس العالم”. تصريحات مانشيني بعد توديع منتخب السعودية كأس آسيا

Tottenham Hotspur have made an "important proposal" to Napoli boss Luciano Spalletti as chairman Daniel Levy keeps up the hunt for a new manager, according to reports.

Who could Spurs appoint as manager?

The north Londoners, well over a month after parting company with former head coach Antonio Conte, are said to be stepping up their chase for his replacement.

Reports in the last week have suggested that Levy has completed the due-diligence stage of his search, having assessed multiple candidates whilst holding discussions with the likes of Julian Nagelsmann and Luis Enrique (The Evening Standard).

The free agent duo aren't solely attracting Tottenham's real interest, though, as Xabi Alonso of Bayer Leverkusen and even Sporting Lisbon's Ruben Amorim are rumoured to be of interest.

Spurs have however recently missed out on appointing Burnley boss Vincent Kompany after they were repeatedly linked, with the Belgian putting pen to paper on fresh terms at Turf Moor.

The Premier League side are weighing up moves for new candidates on a regular basis, it would seem, as Serie A-winning coach Spalletti has emerged as a fairly new target in the last week.

Now, Italian journalist Paolo Bargiggia, appearing as a guest on 7 Gold’s Il Processo (via Area Napoli and Sport Witness), claims the 64-year-old has an "important proposal" from Spurs.

As well as the Lilywhites, it is also believed Roma are potentially eyeing him to replace Jose Mourinho.

When asked about Spalletti's future, Bargiggia explained:

“Why did the manager release certain statements [Napoli exercising one year extension], proving to be rather cold on the hypothesis of a renewal? The problem is that the Tuscan had an important proposal from Tottenham. Spalletti earns €2.7m a season, elsewhere they can guarantee him a very high salary.

“Then came two other potential proposals, not yet so concrete. One is PSG, even if Mourinho is more likely to go there. The second is sensational: a return to Rome. I repeat, however, there is nothing official.”

What could Spalletti bring to Spurs?

Possessing both the necessary experience and a proven track record of winning silverware, we believe Spalletti could actually be an exciting option for Levy.

The former Zenit St.Petersburg boss has won a grand total of eight major trophies, including this season's Scudetto, not to mention he encourages an attack-minded brand of football.

Called an 'genius' manager by Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, Spalletti's current Napoli deal also runs out in 2024.

Fans online have been left infuriated after Newcastle United defender Fabian Schar avoided a red card for a bad challenge on Gabriel Jesus.

What happened between Schar and Jesus?

Arsenal travelled away to St James’ Park on Sunday afternoon, hoping to keep their Premier League title hopes alive with a big performance.

And Mikel Arteta can be delighted with his team because they delivered just what was needed to keep the pressure on Manchester City.

Indeed, despite a fast start from Eddie Howe and co, the Gunners took the lead when Martin Odegaard drilled in a fine shot from around 25 yards out.

Then later on in the second half, Arsenal doubled their lead when Gabriel Martinelli showed quick feet on the wing to deliver a low cross that hit Schar and deflected into the back of the Magpies’ net.

Ironically, there are plenty of supporters who actually think the Swiss defender shouldn’t have been on the pitch at this moment in time.

Indeed, shortly before his own goal, the £40k-per-week centre-back charged in to win the ball of Jesus but seemed to deliberately raise an elbow in the Brazilian striker’s jaw.

As you can see in the footage above, the evidence it’s pretty damning but referee Chris Cavanagh didn’t seem to spot it live and even with VAR in use on the day, Schar still somehow avoided a red card.

It’s safe to say a number of supporters were left in disbelief after seeing replays of the incident. Here are some of the best reactions…

The outrage continued…

Crystal Palace are keen on a move to bring Steve Biko FC striker Adama Bojang to the Premier League, according to reports.

Who is Adama Bojang?

The Gambian is an exciting, up-and-coming talent who has worked his way through the ranks to become a regular feature for his current club. The £650k-valued forward has also started making a name for himself on the international stage, having recently represented his country at the AFCON U20s tournament and is expected to feature at the U20 World Cup later this year.

Recent reports have suggested that the 18-year-old is hoping to put himself in the shop window by delivering a consistent run of strong performances for Gambia’s youth side, and it would appear that his hard work has already paid off, having caught the eye of the Eagles.

According to the Daily Mail, Crystal Palace and Chelsea are the latest clubs to “register an interest” in securing the services of Bojang ahead of the 2023/24 term. Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest are also name-checked as teams “monitoring” the teenager’s development. The Premier League sides are all “considering” purchasing the striker and sending him straight back out on loan as a result of potential issues arising when it comes to arranging a work permit. Meanwhile, Marseille, Ajax, Royal Antwerp and Napoli are also “in the mix”.

Would Bojang be a good signing for Palace?

Bojang is still very much in the early stages of his development and career as a whole, and would need to gain more senior experience before being considered a member of the first team, but he would almost certainly be an exciting signing for the long-term future at Palace.

The SPOCS Global Sports client scored four goals and provided one assist in six appearances at the AFCON tournament in Egypt where he significantly contributed to his side making it all the way to the final back in March, as per Transfermarkt. Standing at 6 foot 3, the youngster could also be an ideal target man, with his height making him a useful option and focal point to have in the final third when it comes to getting on the end of long balls and set pieces.

Finally, Bojang has been likened to AS Roma and former Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham by talent scout Jacek Kulig, so should he possess similar qualities, he could yet be an extremely positive acquisition at Selhurst Park.

Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Arsenal are eyeing up midfield sensation Romeo Lavia ahead of a potential summer move.

What's the latest on Arsenal's transfer targets?

Mikel Arteta is clearly in hot pursuit of a central midfielder this summer, with reports that Declan Rice is the club's top target, and this follows a January window where large bids were made for Moises Caicedo.

The league leaders are now also keeping an eye on 19-year-old Lavia, who has impressed for Southampton in his 24 appearances this season.

A young option who can rotate with Thomas Partey, Jorginho and Granit Xhaka is seemingly on the wishlist, and Lavia has earned plaudits from his peers, with ex-teammate Kevin de Bruyne previously describing the Belgian as "very good".

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano revealed that whilst Arsenal are keeping an eye on the £25k-per-week star, there is nothing concrete in terms of a move just yet.

He said: "Arsenal are keeping an eye on the player.

"Arsenal are following Romeo Lavia, but at the moment, [there is] still nothing advanced. Arsenal have many options."

Why do Arsenal want a midfielder?

Three of Arsenal's main central midfielders in Xhaka, Partey and Jorginho are all aged 29 or older, and Partey's fitness record is particularly inconsistent.

Arsenal are often reliant on Partey at the base of the Arsenal midfield, with Xhaka and Martin Odegaard pushing forward. Whilst Jorginho has stepped in to great effect at times since his January arrival – including a performance against Aston Villa where he helped create the winning goal – a longer-term rotation option could be of great use.

This could explain the interest in younger talents such as Rice and Caicedo, and Lavia may be viewed as an alternative option to the pair.

However, it remains unclear if Lavia can step into Partey's shoes, even as a rotational option. Partey ranks in the top 5% of midfielders in Europe's top competitions over the past year for progressive passes, with the Ghanaian helping Arsenal build attacks from deep, while Lavia ranks in the bottom 29% in this regard, as per FBref.

Although he is still young, the experience Partey and Jorginho bring to the team may be lacking in someone as raw as Lavia. With just 26 senior appearances to his name in his career, it may be a tough task for him to step into a midfield which could potentially compete for the league title again next season.

Declan Rice, in contrast, is West Ham's captain, and has experience domestically, in Europe and on the international stage. Arsenal may have more confidence in the Englishman's ability to step in and perform when needed given the vast difference in pedigree between him and Lavia.

Phil Hay has admitted on The Phil Hay Show Wilfried Gnonto will still have a big role to play in Leeds United’s battle against the drop.

The Lowdown: Leeds are stuck in a rut

Having arrived as certainly not the club’s first-choice attacking signing last summer with players such as Bamba Dieng and Cody Gakpo being chased prior to his move, Gnonto has proved his worth to The Whites.

The Italian international is still only 19 but has been afforded 19 appearances across all competitions this season such is the talent that he’s possessed and been able to showcase thus far.

However, since Javi Gracia came to the club he’s fallen down the pecking order starting just once in the league, although that’s also coincided with the Whites’ continued poor run of form, so he may not be far away from getting the nod once again.

The Latest: Gnonto will still have a part to play this season

Despite being shunned to the sidelines in recent times, Hay is still convinced that Gnonto will play a significant role in Leeds’ attempts to stay in the Premier League.

He said: (17:10) “It can’t all be on him, it can’t be just him getting flogged to death because nobody else is particularly providing inspiration but I think again, to take his substitute appearance on Saturday, it’s hard not to feel like he’s going to be very influential towards the back end of the season, or needs to be very influential in that period.”

The Verdict: Gracia must get more out of Gnonto

Despite his tender age, Gnonto has already proven this season that he doesn’t mind having the burden on his back of carrying Leeds to important results having chipped in with six goal involvements this term already and he looks to be capable of stepping up from the start of games or entering later on having been labelled as a ‘super sub’ by Jake Winderman.

However, Gracia may well have taken the decision to pull him from the last two starting lineups to protect the young Italian from burnout and also from teams totally understanding how he likes to play and take defenders on.

While that is a sensible approach from Gracia, given that Leeds are 19th in the Premier League with 12 games left to play, the Spanish boss can’t be thinking about the long-term prospect of Gnonto, he just needs to find a way of getting one of his best attacking threats into the side as soon as possible.

Leeds United are thought to be plotting a move for Celtic teenager Aidan Borland, according to Football Insider.

The Lowdown: Teenage additions

Victor Orta has had plenty of success when it comes to bringing in some exciting teenagers over the years. Goalkeeper Illan Meslier was just 19 years of age when he first made the move to Elland Road and has racked up 114 appearances for the Whites.

Wilfried Gnonto is the latest teenage success story in Yorkshire, while Orta has also helped bring Joe Gelhardt, Sam Greenwood, Leo Hjelde, Darko Gyabi and Sonny Perkins to the club.

The search for a new manager is over for now with Javi Gracia taking over, and it looks as if the sporting director is already eyeing a first signing for the new boss.

The Latest: Borland rumours

FI reporter Pete O’Rourke shared a story on Wednesday regarding Celtic youngster Borland.

He said that Leeds and Premier League rivals Aston Villa are both plotting moves for the 15-year-old, who has been catching the eye in Glasgow and is already turning out for Celtic’s U18s side.

The Verdict: One to watch

Orta has shown in recent years that he is keen to bolster the ranks at Thorp Arch, with a number of players progressing through the academy and making first-team appearances.

A record eight teenagers made their debuts in the Premier League for Leeds last season, so that could be something that appeals to Borland in the long run.

He appears to be making good progress in Scotland so could link up with Leeds’ U18s initially despite the age gap, so this could be one to monitor over the coming months after Orta and co secured a new manager.