West Ham United are expected to submit an imminent bid for Paris Saint Germain’s Hugo Ekitike, and a new report has revealed the price it will take to bring him to the Premier League.

Are West Ham signing Hugo Ekitike?

Standing at 6 foot 2, Ekitike only completed the permanent move to the Parc des Princes last month following a successful loan spell from Stade Reims, as per Transfermarkt, where he’s made a total of 33 appearances to date, but there’s a strong possibility that he could be on the move before the end of the ongoing summer transfer window.

Despite still having another four years to run on his contract, Luis Enrique’s side are reportedly ready to cash in on the 21-year-old striker in order to fund new signings of their own, and should he depart, he’s got a potential suitor waiting for him in the form of David Moyes in E20.

RMC Sport previously revealed that the Irons had expressed an initial interest in the Frenchman, whilst Sport Zone have since claimed that the London Stadium outfit have stepped up their pursuit of the centre-forward following the departure of Gianluca Scamacca who has left the club to join Atalanta in the Serie A.

According to L’Equipe (via Sport Witness), West Ham are in “direct contact” regarding a summer swoop for Ekitike and are set to “quickly make an offer” of a loan with an option to buy for a fee in the region of €35m (£29m).

Should PSG’s star make the permanent move to the top-flight, it’s stated that the requirements needed to trigger that option would be “very easily attainable”, and with Moyes appearing “confident” that his target has the necessary qualities to succeed, this could be one to keep a close eye on in the final weeks of the market.

How many goals has Hugo Ekitike scored?

Since the start of his career, Ekitike has posted 35 goal contributions (24 goals and 11 assists) in 87 appearances which has seen him dubbed a “revelation” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, so should he put pen to paper, it could be a massive coup for West Ham.

The Reims native also recorded 34 shots over the course of the previous campaign which was the fourth-highest number throughout the whole of his squad, via FBRef, which is pretty good going when you consider that he had to compete with the likes of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar.

Read The Latest West Ham Transfer News HERE…

PSG’s attacker additionally has experience competing in the Champions League and will know what it takes to be successful at the top level having been crowned Ligue 1 winners for 2022/23, so could bring a welcome winning mentality to the capital.

Furthermore, Ekitike has the versatility to operate out wide on the left wing as well as in his usual role through the middle so he could be a great option for the boss to have in the building should any unexpected injuries occur, making this a no-brainer of a deal to complete and one to keep an eye on before the deadline.

The Law Commission of India has recommended bringing the BCCI under the Right to Information (RTI) Act since it performs the functions of a public body. And should the government approve and follow through on this view, the board could be grappling with far-reaching consequences. Several members of the ruling dispensation in Delhi currently hold offices in BCCI and its state associations.The 124-page report prepared by a panel of lawmakers led by Justice BS Chauhan concluded that the BCCI is “virtually” a national sports federation (NSF), and that the Indian government should formally recognise it as such. NSFs automatically come under the purview of RTI, a path-breaking federal law established in 2005, which makes the working of high-profile organisations open to public scrutiny.The Law commission, which has submitted its recommendations for the approval to the Indian Law Ministry, also said that the BCCI should be classified as a “State” and fall under Article 12 of the Indian Constitution.The Law Commission found that the “magnanimity and enormity of the functions” helped the BCCI enjoy a “monopolistic status” as it was allowed by the State to be the final authority on all cricket matters including picking national teams, organising and regulating the sport in the country, and representing India at international platforms – all actions carried out by NSFs.According to the Commission such freedom has only made the BCCI immune to accountability and transparency. “Non-consideration of the role played by BCCI as monopolistic in regulation of the game of cricket has resulted in the Board flying under the radar of public scrutiny, encouraged an environment of opacity and non-accountability,” the report said. “In the past, this has probably given an impression in the minds of the general public that corruption and other forms of malpractices are adversely affecting one of the most popular sports played in India.”BCCI exercises ‘State-like’ powers affecting the fundamental rights of the stakeholders, guaranteed under Part III of the Constitution. It is hereby recommended that BCCI be viewed as an agency or instrumentality of State, under Article 12 of the Constitution, thereby making it amenable to the writ jurisdiction of the Supreme Court under Article 32.”These findings only reinforced the order of the Supreme Court in 2016 when it approved the Lodha Committee recommendations for radical reforms in the way the BCCI does business. Simultaneously, it had asked the Law Commission to see if the board could fall under the RTI act, as suggested by the Lodha committee. The Court had said if the answer was “affirmative” then the Law Commission should send its recommendations to the Indian Government to help bring in a new legislation that will make the BCCI open to public scrutiny.So far the BCCI has argued that it is merely a private body, formed as society under the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act, 1975. It argued that it does not get and depend on any funding or financial assistance of any type from the government and hence cannot be classified as an NSF. However, the Law Commission’s counter was the BCCI was being given “substantial” financial assistance in “other forms” like getting massive tax exemptions, customs duty waivers, and land and infrastructure across the country at “excessively subsidised” rates form the central and state governments.”Even if BCCI is continued to be regarded as a private body, but owing to its monopolistic character coupled with the public nature of its functions and the ‘substantial financing’ it has received from appropriate Governments over the years (in the form of tax exemptions, land grants et al) it can, within the existing legal framework, still be termed as a ‘public authority’ and be brought within the purview of the RTI Act.”The Law Commission also noted that the BCCI was already being treated as a NSF by various Indian governments for several years. “As per the statement made in the Lok Sabha, the Central Government has already been regarding BCCI as a National Sports Federation and hence, it is recommended that, for the removal of any doubt, the same be explicitly mentioned in the list of NSFs available on the ministry’s website. This express mention would automatically bring BCCI within the purview of RTI Act.”

Leeds United continued their underwhelming start to the season last night, as despite fielding a strong side for their match with Salford City, Daniel Farke's side were ruthlessly dumped out of the EFL Cup.

How did Leeds United play vs Salford City?

Despite maintaining their dominance throughout a clash that stretched on for 98 minutes, the Whites relentlessly pushed for two goals having fallen behind inside 35 minutes.

Although Pascal Struijk's neat close-range finish offered hope of a late comeback, they still could not find that winner, with a 1-1 draw ushering in a penalty shootout. This was made all the more frustrating given they had rained down 33 shots, created four big chances and hit the woodwork on three occasions, via Sofascore.

Read the latest Leeds transfer news HERE…

Both sides showcased some stunning finishes from 12 yards, but in the end, misses from Georginio Rutter and Jamie Shackleton resigned them to defeat in just the second round of the cup.

For all their disappointment, failing to see out a win that they probably should have claimed, the latter of these two unfortunate gems still starred and will have given his manager a true headache as the Championship returns this weekend.

How did Jamie Shackleton play?

Having spent last season on loan at Millwall, the versatile 23-year-old dynamo boasts plenty of experience that suggests he can be a key figure for Farke this season.

He has already made three starts in the new term to suggest this will be the case, with his ability to feature in a number of roles key. Last night saw him start at right-back, but that could be a role he will struggle to maintain given the west Yorkshire outfit have just agreed on a deal to sign Djed Spence on loan from Tottenham Hotspur.

The former Middlesbrough flyer is a dynamic, all-action defender who has been starved of opportunities since his north London switch.

However, during his loan spell at Nottingham Forest during the 2021/22 campaign, his six goal contributions and one key pass per game (via Sofascore) suggest that Elland Road will be treated to a true attacking presence from right-back.

But, with Shackleton's performance against the Ammies, his place in the side will not be a certainty.

The academy graduate played the full game as part of their staunch backline, yet was creatively immaculate despite their inability to find the net.

The youngster enjoyed 98 touches of the ball and maintained a 94% pass accuracy, yet somehow also recorded four key passes and forged a sole big chance, via Sofascore.

It takes a true talent to remain economical in possession, yet still a consistent creative threat.

However, that's not to suggest that he abandoned his defensive duties though, making three tackles and winning seven of the eight duels he competed in at an 88% success rate, via Sofascore.

His excellence was outlined by journalist Beren Cross in his post-match ratings, who offered the following summation after handing the £1m-rated gem an admirable 7/10 rating:

"Got up and down well without ever causing too much of a fuss defensively. Brought a decent level of threat going forward and went past multiple Salford defenders on more than one occasion."

Although Spence is a fine acquisition for Leeds, he will have to perform to the best of his capabilities to push Shackleton out of a position where he shone last night despite the crushing defeat.

Manchester United target Sofyan Amrabat could become a Red Devils player on deadline day, with a big update emerging in the last 24 hours.

Are Man United signing Sofyan Amrabat?

Erik ten Hag and those at Old Trafford have been relatively busy so far this summer, with marquee big-money deals for Andre Onana, Mason Mount and Rasmus Hojlund from Inter Milan, Chelsea and Atalanta all sealed earlier in the window.

Another player who is also on course to move to Manchester is Tottenham left-back Sergio Reguilon, with a verbal agreement in place with Spurs over a loan deal.

There could be room for one more eye-catching transfer, though, with Amrabat heavily linked with a move to Manchester in recent weeks. The Morocco international previously worked under Ten Hag at FC Utrecht, registering 10 assists in 50 appearances under the Dutchman and appears to be a top target to bolster the club’s midfield ranks even further.

Recent reports have claimed that United saw an initial loan offer turned down by Fiorentina for Amrabat, who has been training away from the first-team squad. However, it now looks as if there has been progress over a transfer, with Football Insider sharing an update on Man United and Amrabat.

The report claims that the Red Devils have made a breakthrough in their pursuit of the player, with Fiorentina giving the midfielder the green light to travel to Manchester for talks and a medical after late-night developments on Wednesday.

It is added that United are putting the finishing touches to a marquee move, but don’t add whether a move will be a loan or permanent transfer.

How good is Sofyan Amrabat?

Amrabat is naturally a defensive midfielder who can play slightly further forward in a central midfield role if needed and has been with Fiorentina since 2020, making 107 appearances for his current employers.

The 27-year-old appears to be at the top of his game right now with a career-high €30m Transfermarkt valuation, a figure which rocketed following a successful World Cup in Qatar last year.

Read the latest Man United transfer news HERE…

Hailed as a "monster" by broadcaster Carlo Garganese, Amrabat was praised by former England manager Fabio Capello for his displays in Qatar which saw Morocco reach the semi-finals, with the Italian describing Amrabat as a 'great runner' and the 'Gennaro Gattuso of Morocco'.

"If I have to name one name, besides the well-known Hakim Ziyech and Achraf Hakimi, it would be Amrabat. He is essential for balance and a great runner. I read that he covered more than fourteen kilometres against Spain. I see him as the Gennaro Gattuso of Morocco."

As per FBref over the past 12 months, Amrabat has shone when compared to his positional peers, ranking in the top 1% and 2% for passes completed and attempted respectively. He also ranks extremely highly for passes into the final third and progressive passes, showing his quality on the ball.

Off the ball, Amrabat ranks in the 85th percentile for tackles in midfield, so could compliment the likes of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes in a potential midfield three, and by the looks of things, a move may well materialise before the 11pm deadline.

Josh Sargent has explained why he is full of goals again, with the United States international hitting a serious purple patch at Norwich City.

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• American frontman brimming with confidence
• Fully recovered from early-season injury
• Has reached double figures for goals scored

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  The USMNT star bagged a brace in the Canaries’ 4-1 victory over Cardiff, and has now netted in four successive games. Sargent, who sat out 20 matches early in the 2023-24 season due to injury, has reached double figures for the campaign – despite only playing the full 90 minutes on two occasions.

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  WHAT SARGENT SAID

  Confidence is flowing through the 23-year-old frontman, with Sargent telling reporters of the simple explanation for his return to form: “It definitely helps when you are playing in your natural position. I've played it my whole life growing up, and I was talking about it with my agents the other day; this is the first season since I became a pro, where I started at the nine and played the whole season there. What do you know – I'm actually doing pretty well. I hope I can continue to score goals and help the team as much as possible. I'm doing the best I can – I have to give a lot of props to the guys. They are helping me out because you can't score goals alone. Hopefully, we continue to play the best possible football and put me in the best possible situations to score goals.”

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Sargent added on finding his shooting boots, with only three more efforts required in order to match his personal-best goal return from 2022-23: “I could have had four if I was sharp but I'm obviously feeling very confident at the moment and very good. I'm very happy with all the goals but even happier that the team is firing on all cylinders. Everyone is getting the best out of each other right now, and you can tell in the performances. Everyone is playing really good football, and I'm not sure you can really criticise anyone at the moment, so we have to keep it up.”

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  WHAT NEXT FOR SARGENT?

  Another win for Norwich has lifted them up to seventh in the Championship table. They are level on points with Coventry City, who occupy the final play-off spot as things stand, with Sargent and Co looking to push themselves into the Premier League promotion picture.

The youthful trio have all hit form at a crucial stage of the season and have given the Red Devils hope of finishing a dismal campaign on a high

Manchester United fans have not had many reasons to smile this season, but surely even the most pessimistic supporter could not stop grinning at the sight of Alejandro Garnacho, Kobbie Mainoo and Rasmus Hojlund sitting together on the Old Trafford advertising boards during the rampant 3-0 win over West Ham.

Garnacho may have been mimicking a Cristiano Ronaldo celebration after grabbing United's second goal of the game, but Hojlund and Mainoo rushing over to join the goalscorer spoke of a bond between United's bright young new generation.

The trio had been the outstanding players – along with the unfortunately injured Lisandro Martinez – in one of United's best performances of the season on Sunday, and there is a real sense of belief that they can spur the Red Devils on to great things, ensuring Erik ten Hag's side end a harrowing campaign on a high note.

Hojlund, Mainoo and Garnacho also played their part in the nail-biting 4-3 win at Wolves three days earlier, and United will again look to these three young musketeers when they visit Aston Villa on Sunday, when their hopes of finishing in the top four and returning to the Champions League will be on the line.

GETTY'What we need'

Ten Hag might not be prone to belly laughs like Jurgen Klopp or known for fist-pumping celebrations like Mikel Arteta and Pep Guardiola, but as he watched his three youngsters having the time of their lives, he could not help but grin like a Cheshire cat.

"I think that picture encompasses a lot and when they are together that is how we want to play football, with that adventure," the manager said. "With that celebration, I liked it. It is showing we are doing it [with] togetherness. Every game, it looks like they are growing, they are improving and adapt to a higher level. That is what we need at Manchester United."

Garnacho's deflected goal which sparked the already iconic celebration gave United a two-goal cushion, and the Argentina forward rounded off a day to remember by scoring his side's third and final goal with the help of Hojlund, who combined with Scott McTominay to win the ball back in West Ham's half. It was a fitting way to crown stunning performances from the two forwards, as well as Mainoo.

The teenage midfielder had built on his spectacular winning goal in the 97th minute against Wolves with a mature and daring display against West Ham, dictating United's play after being given licence to roam thanks to Casemiro sitting deeper to protect the back four.

"The goal tells us a lot about young players, very young, I would say. But they get used to the Premier League standards, they can do it," Ten Hag said.

AdvertisementGetty Playing with adventure

United has always been a fertile breeding ground for young players, dating back to the 'Busby Babes' of the 1950s and 1960s, and passing through the celebrated 'Class of '92' containing David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and the Neville brothers.

Ten Hag is a fitting coach to lead the latest revolution of youngsters as he made his name as a manager by blooding talented teenagers such as Matthjis de Ligt, Frenkie de Jong and Donny van de Beek at Ajax, taking the team to the brink of a Champions League final.

That Ajax team also had seasoned operators like Daley Blind and Dusan Tadic among their ranks, and Ten Hag knows it is up to the likes of Casemiro and captain Bruno Fernandes to get the best out of this latest golden generation.

"We are building a team, we signed young players, and we give them opportunities," Ten Hag added. "This is a process with ups and downs and we have to realise this. Our experienced players will help them, and we need them and they will help the young players perform.

"The future for Manchester United is very good because we have high potential. They are together and want to play football with adventure and enjoyment."

GettyForging strong bonds

The 'togetherness' Ten Hag spoke of between Hojlund, Mainoo and Garnacho, which is now being seen on the pitch, is the product of a close relationship off it. Mainoo and Garnacho have known each other for close to four years, with the midfielder, who grew up in Stockport, moving to United's academy when he was nine years old.

Garnacho joined him in the club's youth set-up in September 2020, and their bond was truly forged during their triumphant FA Youth Cup run the following season. Both players started every game, with the latter stages being played at Old Trafford. And when Mainoo scored the winning goal at Molineux, it was Garnacho – who had been substituted – who sprinted from the sidelines and on to the pitch to celebrate with his friend.

Hojlund is the newest recruit after his £72 million ($90m) move from Atalanta, but he has taken little time to form a friendship with Mainoo and Garnacho. "We enjoy spending time together. The young guys have a little group where we're chatting to each other and it's very cool to have other young players around the team," the striker said after the win at Wolves.

"Hopefully we can set an era for the club and be here many years together. If you're good enough, you're old enough and I think that's a good thing. We're here for a reason."

Hojlund's bond with Garnacho could be seen in their post-match interview after downing West Ham, which the pair conducted while cuddling each other.

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Getty ImagesHojlund realising his potential

Hojlund had got the ball rolling against West Ham with a lethal finish from just inside the area, and his guitar celebration demonstrated a young player who is relishing finally taking centre stage after a slow start. He had to wait more than four months after his big-money arrival to score his first Premier League goal, although it was almost worth it as his strike snatched victory over Villa.

Hojlund had shone in the Champions League, scoring five goals, but his domestic goal drought seemed to illustrate the fact he was still a rough diamond and the burden he was facing in being asked to lead United's attack despite his young age and inexperience.

He has had little back-up as Anthony Martial is perennially injured, while Marcus Rashford has made it clear he does not enjoy playing at centre-forward and has been rather ineffective when he has played there.

Indeed, United's last defeat came at Nottingham Forest, when Hojlund was unavailable due to illness, showing their unhealthy reliance on him. Rashford's steady return to form, not withstanding his ill-advised behaviour off-the-pitch, has helped Hojlund settle, but his thriving relationship with Garnacho has even more potential.

“I have always believed in myself, it has just been about getting the rhythm going,” he said. “You get one goal, then two and get a bit of momentum and start linking up with the players. About a month ago, Garna and I did an interview on the pitch and he said there was a lot of talk about us not scoring enough goals, but we’re still young."

Manchester United appear to be solving the transfer issues ahead of the deadline at 11 o'clock tonight, with Erik ten Hag pushing for a squad capable of competing in the Premier League and Champions League this season.

What's the latest on Sofyan Amrabat to Manchester United?

According to Sky Sports News [1st September, 09:51am), Manchester United are in advanced talks with Serie A outfit Fiorentina for midfield maestro Sofyan Amrabat.

Red Devils director of football negotiations Matt Hargreaves has flown to Italy today to try and close a deal for the Moroccan, with The Athletic's David Ornstein reporting that there is no agreement between the respective outfits.

Read the latest Man United transfer news HERE…

The reporter inside Old Trafford revealed that Amrabat was "keen to join" Erik ten Hag's side live on air, so it's now down to both clubs to agree on the terms of a deal, with La Viola thought to value him at £30m.

A loan deal with an obligation to buy has been discussed, but time is in short supply, so the United hierarchy will need to make progress swiftly.

How good is Sofyan Amrabat?

Despite Manchester United placing Amrabat at the top of the shopping list for the entirety of the summer transfer window, the closing stage is nigh and the 27-year-old has yet to join the fold at the Theatre of Dreams.

The prestigious Premier League outfit have closed a deal for Tottenham Hotspur left-back Sergio Reguilon today – to combat the long-term injury to Luke Shaw – but still need to buttress the midfield with a first-class acquisition.

Fabrizio Romano claimed that the midfielder has always been the "top target" for Ten Hag's side, having thrived at the centre of Fiorentina's squad and dazzled on the biggest stage with Morocco at the 2022 World Cup, with his nation becoming the first African side to reach the final four.

Described as the "best central midfielder in the tournament" by journalist Carlo Garganese for his escapades in Qatar, Amrabat was immense and completed 85% of his passes while averaging 2.3 tackles and 1.4 clearances per game as Morocco commendably came fourth.

One of the finest passers of the ball around, Amrabat ranks among the top 1% of positional peers for pass completion and the top 2% for passes attempted and progressive passes per 90, as per FBref.

The fact that the £32k-per-week ace maintains such precision despite the sheer volume of passes forged each match is a testament to his first-rate technical ability; for reference, Liverpool's Thiago Alcantara, one of Europe's most prominent maestros, ranks among the top 4% for passes attempted and 6% for progressive passes per 90, but only among the top 21% for pass completion.

By placing Amrabat into the squad, Ten Hag would open up a new dimension to the fluidity and drive of the midfield, threading the departments of the pitch together superlatively with such a sensational ball-player.

While this is his standout faculty, Amrabat is considered a "raging bull" in the midfield – as said by journalist Amine El Amri – with an admirable "defensive instinct", according to pundit Joe Cole.

It is because of this that United would land a massive upgrade on Scott McTominay by signing the 6 foot 1 gem, with the Scotland international said to be "not good enough" for the Red Devils by club legend Roy Keane.

McTominay is also attracting attention from the likes of Fulham, who are establishing contingency plans in case Joao Palhinha departs for Bayern Munich today, and United might be wise to ship the long-serving player on to recuperate funds for the Amrabat deal.

McTominay is a tenacious defensive presence and ranks among the top 1% of midfielders for clearances and aerial wins per 90, but only ranks among the top 52% for pass completion and the bottom 7% for progressive passes per 90.

Given the vision that Ten Hag has, Amrabat would be the perfect signing to tidy up the midfield and increase the robustness, and while McTominay has served Old Trafford well, now might be a good time to move onto the next chapter, with the La Viola phenom proving to be a monumental upgrade.

For a few moments, play came to a halt with players from both sides having to be restrained from each other. Then Mahmudullah struck a six to seal Bangladesh’s place in the final

Andrew Fidel Fernando16-Mar-2018
Scorecard and ball-by-ball detailsAssociated PressMahmudullah, sublimely poised while chaos roiled around him, hoisted an Isuru Udana ball over the square leg boundary when six runs were required off the last two balls, propelling Bangladesh to victory in scintillating fashion. It is difficult to overstate the importance of his innings, though the numbers – 43 off 18 balls – bear witness to its quality. Incensed by several mistakes from his team-mates, maintaining his focus even through an ugly final over in which a Bangladesh sub was given a shove by a Sri Lanka player and Shakib Al Hasan seemed intent on bringing his batsmen off the field, Mahmudullah completed the chase of 160 with No. 10 batsman Rubel Hossain at the other end.A year’s worth of nerves and acrimony was packed into the final over. Tension between these teams had been high throughout the tournament, owing partly to the “nagin” [cobra] dance that they had mockingly traded with each other, a childish saga that had begun during Sri Lanka’s tour of Bangladesh. But it was upon the umpires’ failure to call the second delivery of that over a no-ball for height (it was the second bouncer of the over, the first having been a dot ball to Mustafizur Rahman), that the drama really sparked off. Mahmudullah was in the umpires’ faces, imploring them to award a no-ball that would make the requirement 11 off five balls with a free-hit to boot, instead of 12 off 4. Mustafizur, meanwhile, was run out attempting a bye at the other end.While Mahmudullah was arguing with the umpires, a fracas had boiled over elsewhere. A Bangladesh substitute who had come on to the field with drinks had become embroiled in an argument with the Sri Lanka players. It was when one of the Sri Lanka fielders gave the sub a push – not an almighty shove, but not a gentle prod either – that the Bangladesh dressing room became truly incensed. In a flash, Shakib came down the stairs and to the boundary, where after after speaking animatedly with the fourth umpire, he summoned Mahmudullah and Rubel off the field.In the end, after things had seemed to settle slightly, Mahmudullah carved a four over cover the first ball after resumption, then hit two to deep midwicket and gloriously lifted that leg-side six, with Udana having overpitched. His euphoric team-mates charged the field to embrace him, dusted off a group version of the nagin dance, and were celebrating when another unseemly altercation ensued. This time Kusal Mendis was yelling at the Bangladesh players and gesturing animatedly, while Tamim Iqbal put an arm around his shoulder and attempted to calm him down. In a month in which player behaviour has been under the microscope, all this made for especially disagreeable viewing.Celebrations in the Bangladesh dressing room in Colombo went a little down the wrong direction•Andrew Fernando/ESPNcricinfoIt was a pity that the theatrics marred what was otherwise an incredibly riveting game: a T20 that had had a top-order collapse, a stirring recovery, wonderful bowling, baffling dismissals, and a myriad dramatic moments even before that denouement. This was a match in which Bangladesh had justifiably installed two slips to Thisara Perera in the ninth over of Sri Lanka’s innings, after the hosts had found themselves 41 for 5, the collapse engineered by Mustafizur, Shakib and Mehedi, with a run-out thrown into the mix. Kusal Perera was the only top order batsman to survive this mayhem, and together with Thisara, forged a courageous 97-run stand that yanked a side on the brink of being annihilated, to a respectable score.Beautifully did the Pereras dovetail, Thisara laying low and digging in early in their association, while Kusal struck vital, boundaries to keep run rate above water. His scorching cut off Mahmudullah in the 10th over produced the first boundary in 25 deliveries. After two more fours off Rubel Hossain, Kusal took a mighty gamble – he attacked Mustafizur who had taken two wickets and conceded only four runs in his first two overs. That over – the 13th of the innings – would yield 18 runs, and energy would re-enter the Sri Lanka batting effort. Boundaries began to be found regularly, and twos were desperately run in between – the pair forever flirting with another run out, but just escaping. Thanks largely to the Pereras, Sri Lanka managed 69 off the last six overs – their 159 for 7 just about a par score on a slower deck.Akila Dananjaya made two breakthroughs in the Powerplay, to have the chase wobbling at 33 for 2 in the fourth over, but Mushfiqur Rahim and Tamim Iqbal combined for 64 runs off 52 balls, and ensured the chase stayed on track – Tamim hitting an important 50 off 42 balls. Bangladesh’s senior batsmen perhaps banked on being able to score quickly towards the end of the match, because one of Sri Lanka’s frontline bowlers – Nuwan Pradeep – sustained a game-ending leg injury in the field, after he had delivered only one over.Associated PressMushfiqur was out to Aponso in the 13th over, the bowler playing an imaginary snake-charmer’s flute in celebration, which was perhaps the only piece of real wit throughout the exchange between the two teams. When Tamim was out next over, and Soumya Sarkar soon after that, Bangladesh were in a little discomfort, with 51 still required off 31 balls, and only five wickets in hand.Mahmudullah eased himself into this innings. His first boundary came via a misfield at long-on in the 16th over. His next was a six down the ground off Jeevan Mendis, to bring the equation to 31 required off 21 – very gettable, so long as this senior pair saw them home. Shakib, however, would hole out to long leg with two overs to go, off a leg side half-volley, leaving Mahmudullah visibly angry.He would be even more irate at Mehidy Hasan at the end of the penultimate over, after Mehedi failed to dive at the end of a risky run, and was found to be short of his ground. As important as his nerveless boundary hitting was Mahmudullah’s running between the wickets, and his ability to place his shots between fielders. His innings contained six twos and a three, as well as four singles. He failed to score off only one dot ball. In purely cricketing terms, this was an outstanding T20 finish. His innings only glows brighter for having come amid such rancour.

Not only will Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou be praying that his raft of first-team stars return injury-free following the current international break, but the 58-year-old will also likely be paying close attention to how those figures perform while representing their respective countries.

Although this halt to club action is not yet at an end, there have already been some standout performances from members of the Spurs squad in recent days, with that coming off the back of what has been a fine, unbeaten start to the new Premier League season back at N17.

Which Tottenham players are on international duty?

There are currently as many as 16 first-team players who are turning out for their respective nations, with the Welsh trio of Ben Davies, Joe Rodon and Brennan Johnson notably coming up against South Korean hero, Heung-min Son last week in what was a goalless draw in Cardiff.

Among those also earning a national team call-up was Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, with the 27-year-old – who had been heavily linked with a move to Atletico Madrid – perhaps catching the eye of Postecoglou after scoring against both San Marino and Finland for his native Denmark.

That latter strike saw the former Southampton man score with just minutes remaining to clinch a vital 1-0 win in European Championship qualifying, with the experienced asset having been heavily involved in proceedings after racking up 128 touches in total, while enjoying a stellar 96% pass accuracy rate.

Having been a mere bit-part player in the early weeks of the season in north London, the one-time Bayern Munich ace could well have provided Postecoglou with a reminder of his qualities following those two standout showings, with it perhaps something of a blessing in disguise that the Dane did not seal a move away last month.

Hojbjerg was not alone in having impressed over the weekend, however, with teammate Cristian Romero also proving a real shining light amid his sensational display in Argentina's narrow 1-0 victory over Ecuador at the start of their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

How did Cristian Romero perform for Argentina?

While it was talisman Lionel Messi who unsurprisingly stole the headlines with his curling, late free-kick in Friday's triumph, the Inter Miami maestro himself admitted that it was the Spurs warrior who had been "man of the match" following what was an "amazing performance" from the 25-year-old.

Also described as the "best defender in the world right now" by his legendary compatriot, Romero was an immense presence in the backline for Lionel Scaloni's side, with his 8.0 match rating, as per Sofascore, only bettered by Rodrigo De Paul for either side.

The ex-Atalanta man – who has been described as an "animal" in the past by former Tottenham 'keeper Pierluigi Gollini – was his typically tenacious self after winning seven of his eight ground duels as well as four of his seven aerial duels, putting his body on the line repeatedly for the World Champions.

Not only a man mountain at the back, with seven tackles to his name in total, the £165k-per-week asset was also able to showcase his composure in possession after enjoying a 99% pass accuracy rate in total from his 87 touches, proving that he is not always something of "a reckless teenager" – as described by journalist Sam Dean earlier this year.

Reports in Argentina even quipped following that immense performance that Romero would return to England 'overweight' as he has Ecuador's Enner Valencia in his back pocket, while the aforementioned Scaloni hailed that "very complete" display from his defensive star.

It is no doubt a positive for Postecoglou to see the all-action defender – and Hojbjerg – shining so brightly, with that likely to help maintain the strong momentum that the Lilywhites have built-up in the early weeks of the season.

Arsenal have seen some glorious talent grace north London over the years, with Mikel Arteta’s current crop proving to be the real deal.

The Spaniard’s young side put up a fight last season to register themselves as challengers for the Premier League title, finishing second in the league and registering their first finish in the top four in six years.

With Champions League football in the bag, the Gunners will have more difficult challenges ahead, but will go to battle with a squad filled with talent as expected for a club of their stature.

The high level of performance on the pitch was merited by a strong summer of business by Arteta and Edu, who welcomed four new faces to north London, spending over £200m on their acquisitions.

After missing out on former targets Mykhaylo Mudryk and Moises Caicedo to Chelsea this year, it was imperative that Edu landed the club’s number one summer target in Declan Rice.

The former West Ham United captain arrived at the Emirates in a record £105m deal, telling of the turning tides at the club after years of notoriously missing out on targets due to reluctance to spend.

From the failed £40m + £1 bid for Luis Suarez to the January rejected bids for Caicedo, Arsenal have missed out on some top talent as much as they’ve obtained it, with not many names being a miss as agonising as one in particular.

Did Arsenal nearly sign Kylian Mbappe?

Rewind to 2017, French starlet Kylian Mbappe was the talk of the summer, as the widely renowned winger decided to join Paris Saint Germain on an initial loan spell from Monaco.

It was later revealed that Arsenal could have signed the forward for free, prior to him extending his contract with Monaco.

When speaking to beIN Sports, relayed by the Independent, former manager Arsene Wenger told of how he underwent talks with the young talent over a potential move to north London.

“I was at his home when he was undecided whether to extend his contract with Monaco. He could have come to Arsenal for free.”

It’s an admirable, but painful admission by Wenger, with hindsight being a powerful thing when considering the phenomenon that Mbappe has become since that year.

Fast-forward to this summer, and there was some talk that the World Cup winner could be in for a move to England as his contract at PSG nears expiration, with the Mirror listing Arsenal as one of the clubs interested – while the Independent noted that the Gunners would be his preferred Premier League destination.

Such talk was partially dismissed when revising the financial demands that would come with signing one of the best players in the world, however the link between the Gunners and the French sensation resurfaced from the days of Wenger.

What is Mbappe’s market value?

Valued by CIES Football Observatory at €200m (£171m), Mbappe is undoubtedly one of the poster boys for world football.

At just 24 years old, the former Monaco whiz is a World Champion and six-time Ligue 1 winner, alongside his extensive list of personal accolades picked up in his formidable career so far.

To think that a talent as bright and significant as Mbappe could have joined Arsenal for £0 is astounding, with the club living to tell the tale of what could have been had Wenger convinced him years ago.

At the time of the Invincibles manager’s discussions, the Paris-born maestro was in far greater reach, earning around £18.5k-per-week, which quickly rose to £292k-per-week at the point of his improved contract with Monaco.

Now, the Frenchman earns a staggering £1.1m-per-week for PSG, equating to £61.5m a year in salary alone, figures far beyond the means of Arsenal today.

Why is he worth so much?

There’s a reason for the prizes Mbappe has won so far in his career, with that reason being the contribution that his presence alone brings to his side.

In 328 recorded domestic appearances, the 24-year-old has had a hand in 365 goals, figures expected by the likes of former European machines Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Kylian Mbappe Ligue 1 record

Season

Club

Apps

Goals

Assists

2015/16

Monaco

11

1

1

2016/17

Monaco

29

15

11

2017/18

PSG

27

13

7

2018/19

PSG

29

33

9

2019/20

PSG

20

18

7

2020/21

PSG

31

27

7

2021/22

PSG

35

28

19

2022/23

PSG

34

29

6

2023/24 TBC

PSG

3

5

0

Figures via Transfermarkt

Once lauded as “unstoppable” by Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, the praise fits his on-field persona, terrorising defenders every time he’s on the ball.

The winger’s talents translate to being on a different level to his peers, with Messi branding his former teammate as “incredible” after his hat trick in the 2022 World Cup final.

In the 2016/17 Ligue 1 season, the generational talent burst onto the scene on the back of his debut in the competition, where he marked his first 11 appearances for Monaco in 2015/16.

At 17, the winger netted 15 goals and provided 11 assists in just 29 Ligue 1 appearances in his breakthrough season, signalling to the world that he would become the next big thing in world football.

Since that year, the phenomenon has scored a further 153 league goals representing PSG, including a career high of 33 goals in the 2018/19 term in Ligue 1, making him one of the most frightening forwards in the world.

What could he have offered to Arsenal?

The numbers and excitement that Mbappe brings to the stage is attractive to every club in the world.

Like Messi in his prime, he would walk into any side in Europe with ease at just 24, telling of what Arsenal could have had if things went differently during Wenger’s conversation.

What Mbappe could have brought to north London is what players in the calibre of Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp handed to Wenger, with both placing themselves in Arsenal folklore for their contributions over the years.

Such quality wins titles and brings the fear factor – it’s evident through Pep Guardiola’s capture of Erling Haaland, who scored 52 goals in 53 appearances during his debut season last term.

The striker fired Manchester City to becoming treble winners, in a way that showcased just how far the signing of an unquestionable, generational talent can get you.

Arsenal could have had such success if Mbappe had joined before hitting his prime, however it’s a near miss that the Gunners will have to live with, as the World Champion continues to dominate the scene in style.