Liverpool keen on signing Christian Pulisic

Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Chelsea forward Christian Pulisic as a replacement for Sadio Mane this summer.

The Lowdown: Mane on the move?

It looks increasingly as though Mane could leave Anfield this summer, following six years at the club, in which time he has become a Reds legend.

The Senegalese superstar appears likely to join Bayern Munich, enjoying a new challenge while he remains at the peak of his powers.

The 30-year-old could leave a big gap in the Liverpool team, given his brilliance down the years, with a high-profile replacement surely needed to come in and fill the void.

The Latest: Reds linked with Pulisic move

According to The Daily Star, Liverpool are eyeing up a move for Pulisic as a ‘like for like’ Mane replacement, having been heavily linked with him before he joined Chelsea back in 2018.

Klopp was ‘close’ to a reunion with his former Borussia Dortmund student, and it is now claimed that the American could ‘jump ship’ and head to Anfield from Stamford Bridge, as he is ‘disgruntled’ at his current club.

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The Verdict: Exciting target

While Pulisic hasn’t necessarily set the world alight a Chelsea, he is an excellent young player who has huge potential, having been hailed as ‘world-class’ by BBC’s Pat Nevin in the past.

He possesses the pace and trickery to slot into Liverpool’s attack and his versatility means he is capable of thriving on either wing or even in a central role, so he could provide good competition in attacking areas.

Whether or not Chelsea are willing to sell Pulisic to a direct rival is unknown, however, which could act as a possible stumbling block.

In other news, a journalist has dropped a Liverpool transfer claim. Read more here.

Moise Kean ‘hasn’t got a future at Everton’

Journalist Paul Brown has delivered his verdict on the future of out-of-favour Everton striker Moise Kean. 

The lowdown: Flattered to deceive

Signed for £25.1m from Juventus in 2019 (BBC), the Italy international arrived on Merseyside with the world seemingly at his feet having made a successful transition from youth starlet to first-team performer in his homeland.

Following a disappointing debut campaign which yielded just four direct goal involvements in 29 Premier League outings, the young striker was sent out on loan to Paris Saint-Germain, where he appeared to recapture some form with 13 goals in 26 Ligue 1 appearances.

However, after just two more fleeting cameos for the Toffees, the 22-year-old was loaned back to Juventus last September for two years with an obligation to buy, but he now faces an uncertain future…

The latest: Kean’s Everton future in doubt

Speaking to GiveMeSport, journalist Brown dismissed the notion of the 12-cap Italy ace ever returning to Goodison Park.

He explained: “It’s clear he hasn’t got a future at Everton, and I don’t think he wants one either, I think that’s also quite clear.

“The move didn’t work out for him and the man that brought him in, Marcel Brands has gone and it’s a completely different club now.”

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The verdict: Not worth it

Lauded as ‘fearless’ by Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel, under whom Kean played at PSG, there is certainly a top-level player waiting to be unleashed in the 22-year-old. However, seemingly unwanted by Juventus, he is now stuttering along in a career which is in danger of stagnating at a very early stage.

During 2021/22 the Italian scored six times and provided three assists in 44 appearances across all competitions, another below-par campaign from a young forward with an abundance of talent.

Couple these on-field struggles when it comes to output with the fallout when replaced by Duncan Ferguson against Manchester United in 2019, and Frank Lampard may be best served to avoid bringing a disenchanted Kean back to Merseyside, even in light of the possibility of losing frontline duo Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

In other news: Frank McAvennie has reacted to this behind-the-scenes Everton development

What Does The + And – Mean In Sports Betting

The sports betting industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors worldwide. It is already generating billions of revenue and is projected to grow further. Cricket and football are two of the most popular sports among people who are interested in sports betting. If you are someone new to this industry, you may have various doubts and related questions. You may not have complete knowledge of the odds, and technicalities of the betting. If you’re planning to bet for the first time, it will be ideal to understand the basic technicalities. It will help you determine which bet is worth taking. The free spins no deposit bonus is an effective strategy that most new players adopt, according to Crikeyslots.com. 

+ and – Meaning in Sports Betting 

It is necessary to note that odds are displayed in different forms. You may find them in American, Fractional, and Decimal formats. Most of the odds are easy to understand and will help you analyze how much money you will be able to make with that particular bet. However, odds are influenced by various other factors and you should pay attention to each of them. Replying to the odds is not the only way to win big in sports betting.  

+ and – signs are commonly used in sports betting and you may have seen them multiple times. When you find + and – signs, you should be aware that you’re dealing with American Odds. These two critical signs set the entire foundation for the betting process. Whether you’re into football, basketball, cricket, or any other sport, having knowledge of this will help you make the right bet. These signs can also be used to indicate the probability of the outcome of the bet. Therefore, it is necessary that new players should invest their time and learn more about these signs. 

Favorites are –  

When betting, you should note that the favorites are always denoted by – sign. The negative sign indicates the number of favorites on the betting line. It will help you understand how much you need to bet in order to win. It is because the team is expected or has the chance to win. Therefore, looking at this term will give you an idea of how much you need to invest to win $100. 

For instance, what does – 400 mean in betting? It simply implies that you will have to invest $400 in order to win a bet of $100. Therefore, it is an indicative sign that you can consider for making the right bet. 

+ indicates the Underdog 

On the other hand, the positive sign indicates that you’re looking at the underdog. It means that the person or the team you’re looking at is certainly an underdog. If you’re not aware, you should note that an underdog is a group or individual that probably has a lesser chance of winning. Many people often consider taking the bet on the underdog and it can be an excellent way to go. However, you have to be very sure of the bet you’re taking or your underdog pick will certainly win the event. The positive sign indicates the amount you may be capable of winning if you invest $100 on your bet. 

For instance, what does odd + 400 mean? 

It may mean that it is likely that you may win $400 if you bet $100. 

You should even note that the higher the number after the positive sign, the more chances of winning. However, you should also keep in mind that the team may have fewer chances of winning the game or event. Therefore, you should consider both aspects before you proceed with the betting. 

Odds can always change

A lot of times you may find that underdog will be the right bet. However, there are chances that it may not be the case always. You should always look for value in the underdogs and make your decision carefully. Similarly, a negative sign doesn’t necessarily imply that it is a massive favorite and you will win. There have been instances where both the teams have a negative sign and it may get difficult to choose. Another thing that you must keep in mind is that the odds keep changing. Therefore, it is necessary that you research and learn about them to understand them properly. 

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Villa: Agbonlahor reacts to Bassey links

Former Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor has had his say on the club’s links with Rangers defender Calvin Bassey. 

The lowdown: Bassey’s rise to stardom

Released by Leicester City as a youngster without making a single first-team appearance, the Italy-born full-back has risen to prominence in Scotland.

Having made his senior debut and 27 further outings under current Villa manager Steven Gerrard, Bassey has gone from strength to strength following the appointment of Giovanni van Bronckhorst at Ibrox.

Already recognised at senior international level by Nigeria, the versatile defender is seemingly on the radar in the Midlands, as reports continue to link the Villans with a move for the 22-year-old…

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The latest: Agbonlahor endorses Bassey move

Speaking to Football Insider about the potential of Bassey following Gerrard from Ibrox to Villa Park, Agbonlahor suggested that the proposed switch made plenty of sense.

The regular talkSPORT pundit said: “The problem with Rangers and Celtic is they can’t pay the money that teams in the Premier League can. Goldson’s trying to move for financial reasons.

“What can Rangers offer Bassey? That’s the issue. He could probably get double the money at Aston Villa. I’m sure he would be reluctant to sign a new contract and see what is out there for him, to be honest.

“There will be clubs out there for him, 1000 per cent. He’s quick, calm on the ball, strong and good in the air. I’d take him at Aston Villa tomorrow. A lot of clubs in the Premier League will look at him. I’m surprised that Leicester let him go, to be honest. That’s very strange.”

The verdict: Spot on

Valued at just £900,000 and under contract until 2024 (Transfermarkt), any move for Bassey would likely be an affordable one for NSWE as Gerrard attempts to strengthen the ranks at Villa Park.

Despite predominantly being recognised as a left-back, the Nigeria ace made 24 of his 50 appearances across all competitions for Rangers this season as a central defender, highlighting his impressive versatility.

The talented youngster – who has been dubbed ‘the next Van Dijk’ by former Scotland defender Christophe Berra after the Liverpool player left a Glasgow club before rising to elite stardom  – earned a 6.97 Sofascore rating from 29 Scottish Premiership outings this term, winning 5.2 duels, completing 1.2 clearances and making 52.3 accurate passes per game in the process.

Having sanctioned the loan and potential permanent departure of Matt Targett to Newcastle, Gerrard currently only has Lucas Digne at his disposal as a recognised left-back option, so he certainly has scope for a reunion with Bassey, who is developing all the time into a top-class defensive operator.

In other news: NSWE now eyeing another defender; Villa chiefs sent to club after Gerrard approves

Leeds: Orta set to release Casilla

Victor Orta is set to release Leeds United goalkeeper Kiko Casilla this summer.

What’s the word?

That’s according to reports in Spain (via Sport Witness), who claim that the 35-year-old shot-stopper will return to Elland Road following the conclusion of his season-long loan deal with Elche CF, with it appearing likely that Leeds’ Spanish sporting director will then terminate the former Spain international’s contract in LS11 – which is due to run until the summer of 2023.

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The report goes on to state that, as a result of the former Real Madrid man’s professionalism after losing his starting spot to Edgar Badia earlier this season, should Casilla’s wage demands not be too expensive, Francisco could look to bring the goalkeeper back to the Estadio Manuel Martinez Valero in the summer transfer window.

Orta must axe Casilla

Considering just how little Casilla has featured for Leeds in recent seasons, in addition to the fact the 35-year-old is reported to be earning a staggering £40k-per-week at Elland Road, the argument that Orta simply must cut the Spaniard loose this summer is an easy one to make.

Indeed, the shot-stopper’s career in England appeared all but over back in March of 2020, when the £720k-rated man was found guilty of racially abusing Jonathan Leko, and was subsequently handed an eight-game ban by the FA.

Following this incident, the ‘keeper made just six first-team appearances for the Whites over the remainder of the club’s 2019/20 campaign as well as 2020/21, before Orta shipped the shot-stopper out to Elche last summer.

As such, considering his advancing years, Illan Meslier’s now undisputed role as Jesse Marsch’s first-choice goalkeeper and Casilla’s extremely hefty weekly wage, it is clear for all to see that the Leeds sporting director must finally axe the player Oscar Mario dubbed a “mistake” and “nothing short of a liability” this summer.

AND in other news: Huge boost: Leeds now handed big injury lift ahead of Bees, supporters surely buzzing

Liverpool reignite interest in Mbappe

Liverpool have been linked with Paris Saint Germain striker Kylian Mbappe for some time now, and now a new update has emerged in the French media that the club could yet again be showing interest in the star.

What’s the latest?

According to French news outlet L’Equipe (via Sport Witness), Liverpool have ‘entered the dance’ to sign Mbappe this summer.

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The report suggests that with Sadio Mane, Bobby Firmino and Mohamed Salah all out of contract in June 2023, Liverpool are looking at their options to find sufficient replacements if they do not sign new contracts ahead of their contracted exit.

The Frenchman is valued at a mighty £144m by Transfermarkt but is out of contract this summer, and the report states that Liverpool is the third club to have potential interest in signing the forward.

He’s better than Haaland

Premier League title-chasing rivals Manchester City have confirmed the signing of Erling Haaland this week and there would be no better response by the powers at Anfield if they could acquire the services of one of the only young forwards that can compete with the Borussia Dortmund striker’s goal contributions.

In 44 appearances this season Mbappe who was hailed the “golden boy” by teammate Neymar, has put up astonishing numbers for his Ligue 1  club with 35 goals scored and an impressive 24 assists in all competitions.

The talented PSG star has guided his team to another league title and by scoring six important Champions League goals saw his team compete with Real Madrid but unfortunately his game-winning goal in Paris and a second strike at the Bernabeu were not enough to secure progression against the now finalists.

When you compare these achievements to Haaland this season, the Bundesliga forward has scored almost as many goals as games played with 28 goals in 29 appearances and eight assists, and although playing fewer games than Mbappe he almost caught him up for goal contributions per minute with a goal or assist every 63.8 minutes. However, his position competitor just clinches it by scoring or assisting every 63.2 minutes.

There is a lot of debate on who is better out of the pair, and if Liverpool were able to bring Mbappe to the Premier League next season it would not only be a huge coup for Jurgen Klopp but would be a real test for the pair to go head-to-head in the title race and domestic competitions.

With that being said, the Merseyside club are extremely unlikely to match the wage demands that other clubs interested are likely to offer with a strict and uncompromising wage structure built by FSG that has reportedly seen players like Salah stuck in a stalemate during contract negotiations currently.

AND in other news: Time to go: Klopp must brutally axe Liverpool flop who loses the ball every 6.3 mins

Wolves plot move for Charly Alcaraz

Wolves are plotting a bid for 19-year-old Argentinian sensation, Carlos Alcaraz, as Bruno Lage plans a summer rebuild at the club.

What’s the word?

That’s according to Spanish outlet Marca, who claims that Wolves are one of the many sides that are chasing the Racing Club youngster, alongside Juventus, Arsenal, and Tottenham Hotspur.

A release clause of €20m (£17m) is reportedly in the 19-year-old’s contract and this could tempt a range of clubs to make a bid.

The next Lautaro Martinez?

With the news that Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves might be on his way out of the club following links to Barcelona, replacements will be needed ahead of next season.

Alcaraz looks like he has an excellent future ahead of him in the game. With five goals and two assists already this season for Racing Club, he is establishing himself at such a young age.

Despite playing in a different position, these early performances have led many, including journalist Kostas Lianos to claim that Alcaraz could be the “next Lautaro Martinez.”

Martinez started off at Racing Club before making the move to Europe and the striker is now in major demand having suitably impressed at Inter Milan

Alcaraz, with youth behind him, might well get the chance to push further forward as time progresses, and signing him would be a shrewd move for Lage.

Of course, the inexperienced tag might be a detrimental factor, but if the move works out, they could have a real diamond on their hands, and one that could net them a significant profit in the future.

Martinez cost Inter Milan €20m (£17m) and he is now valued at £63m, proving that branching out to South America is a resourceful way to conduct transfer business.

It could well be an exciting time ahead for the Wolves faithful.

AND in other news, Forget Neto: Lage must now unleash Wolves £26k-p/w “top player” who’s “got everything”

Rangers to sing National Anthem vs Napoli

The Daily Mail journalist Mike Keegan has revealed that Glasgow Rangers will ‘defy’ the UEFA ban and sing the National Anthem at Ibrox this evening.

The Lowdown: UEFA ban

As per Keegan, UEFA have turned down requests from British clubs to play the National Anthem ahead of games in European competition this week, to pay their respects following the passing of Her Majesty The Queen.

Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s team were among those who asked for the Anthem to be played, as they prepare to face Napoli in Glasgow.

The Latest: Rangers will ‘defy’ ban

Taking to Twitter in an update after the original news, Keegan has now revealed that the Gers will ‘defy’ the ban set by UEFA, and sing the National Anthem after a period of silence in memory of the Queen:

“It’s my understanding that Rangers will defy the UEFA ban and sing the National Anthem after the period of silence tomorrow night in memory of the Queen ahead of their match with Napoli at Ibrox.”

The Verdict: Right call

It is the right call for the Light Blues to sing the National Anthem in order to pay their respects to the Queen properly, in the first game that they will play after her passing, after all professional football matches in Great Britain were postponed over the weekend.

Singing the Anthem should give the players and supporters a huge uplift, not only offering a once in a lifetime moment of poignancy for all in attendance but also lifting the atmosphere on a special night for their home opener.

Nonetheless, Van Bronckhorst will be looking for a reaction after they were thrashed 4-0 by Ajax on match-day one, and singing the National Anthem should only bring positivity in and around Ibrox.

Leicester: Fabrizio Romano shares Brendan Rodgers update

Leicester City will hold internal talks regarding the future of Brendan Rodgers as manager, according to Fabrizio Romano.   

The Lowdown: Six defeats in a row

The Foxes fell to yet another Premier League defeat on Saturday evening, this time against Tottenham. Rodgers’ side took the lead early on and looked promising in spells, but Heung-min Son’s second half hat-trick ensured a heavy 6-2 defeat.

Their sixth successive top-flight reverse leaves Leicester rock bottom of the Premier League heading into the international break, and it looks as if the walls could be closing in on the 49-year-old.

The Latest: Romano’s update

Speaking to CaughtOffside in a story shared on Sunday morning, Romano had his say on Rodgers’ future at the King Power Stadium, claiming that there will be internal talks ‘in the next hours and days’.

The Italian stated:

“For sure, the situation at Leicester is worrying. Brendan Rodgers’ future will be discussed internally in the next hours and days, no decision yet as of last night.”

The Verdict: Matter of time?

If the club decide to go their separate ways with Rodgers, now could be the perfect time to make that call.

The international break will give Leicester officials an extended period to bring in a potential successor, with Thomas Frank and Sean Dyche two names to have already been mentioned.

It will be interesting to see how this plays out, but it looks as if there could be some important conversations ongoing at the King Power Stadium today.

Aston Villa: Big Geoffrey Kondogbia transfer claim

Aston Villa tried to sign Geoffrey Kondogbia in the final knockings of the summer transfer window, according to Spanish publication MARCA.

The lowdown

Villa made seven signings over the course of the window, spending a total of £63million, according to Transfermarkt.

They strengthened their midfield with deals for Boubacar Kamara (free transfer) and Leander Dendoncker (£13.5million).

Kondogbia, 29, was an unused substitute in Atletico Madrid’s first two La Liga matches, and only played the second half of their last game against Real Sociedad.

The latest

The report states that Aston Villa had long been on the trail of Kondogbia and launched ‘a lightning operation’ to land him at the end of the window.

They still want to sign a midfielder of his profile, despite their deals for Kamara and Dendoncker.

And they spied an opportunity to move for Kondogbia after Diego Simeone overlooked him in the first games of the season.

Unfortunately for Villa, there wasn’t enough time to iron out the issues and complete a deal.

The verdict

Why might Villa still be interested in Kondogbia, despite signing two midfielders?

Well, Kondogbia has played the majority of his football up to this point as a CM, whereas Kamara and Dendoncker are classed as defensive midfielders, so Steven Gerrard may envisage him playing alongside one of the two.

What’s more, Douglas Luiz is out of contract at the end of the season and agreed personal terms with Arsenal during the window, indicating a desire to leave. Kondogbia, then, could potentially be his replacement from 2023 onwards.

Gerrard personally scouted him in last season’s Champions League quarterfinal against Manchester City, as per Birmingham Live, and seems to be a big fan.

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