Would cost £0: Newcastle join race for defender who's among "world's best"

Newcastle United have now joined the race to sign a “very quick” defender who’s among the “world’s best”, according to a report.

Newcastle's summer transfer plans taking shape

Should Newcastle manage to secure Champions League qualification by finishing in the Premier League’s top five, the 2024-25 campaign is likely to go down as a resounding success, having also ended their 70-year trophy drought by lifting the EFL Cup.

However, the PIF have grand plans for the Magpies, and having enjoyed their first taste of success, they are likely to be even more inspired to compete for more major honours, which means some new additions to the squad could be required this summer.

Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo could be a key target in attack, with the right-winger recently being identified as the ideal option to bolster Eddie Howe’s frontline, while the PIF are now racing to sign Girona’s Yangel Herrera to reinforce the midfield.

In-demand player would rather join Newcastle despite offer from Barcelona

The Magpies could land his signature…

1 BySean Markus Clifford May 4, 2025

A new centre-back has also been of interest for quite some time, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi a long-standing target, and there has now been a new update on the Tynesiders’ pursuit of a defender.

According to a report from The Sun, Newcastle have now joined the race to sign Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer, having announced his intention to leave the German club when his contract expires.

Jonathan Tah for Germany.

Guehi remains the Magpies’ top target, with the Palace captain set to leave Selhurst Park this summer, but Tah has now been identified as an alternative option, with Howe desperate to bring in a new defender this summer.

There could be stiff competition for the 29-year-old’s signature, however, with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich also keen, in light of his impressive performances for Bayer Leverkusen…

"Very quick" Tah among "world's best" defenders

Leverkusen were unable to retain the Bundesliga title this season, but they did an incredible job to pip Bayern to top spot in the 2023-24 campaign, going the entire season undefeated, and it would be fair to say the German defender impressed Xabi Alonso.

Alonso said: “Jonha is performing at the highest level and I am really happy for him because he deserves all the praise and all the good moments he’s living – that he keeps playing for us and happily for the national team as well. I think he is one of the world’s best defenders.”

Former Germany boss Joachim Low once described the 29-year-old as “very quick”, while he is also very impressive in possession of the ball.

Tah’s availability on a free transfer makes signing him an even more attractive proposition for potential suitors this summer, and it is promising news that Newcastle have now joined the race.

He'd be incredible with Cunha: Man Utd are in talks to sign a "monster" CM

Ruben Amorim has a huge task on his hands this summer to try and make himself a success as Manchester United manager, with an overhaul of the squad desperately needed.

Despite their poor form in the Premier League throughout 2024/25, the 40-year-old has the opportunity to end the season on a high given their semi-final status in the Europa League.

Regardless of whether the Red Devils go all the way and win the competition, it can’t deflect from the fact that new signings and departures are needed to restore the club’s former glory.

Manchester United manager RubenAmorimbefore the match

However, it’s down to Amorim to sell the right players and decide who the key additions are to fill any of the gaps left by their sales to push them back in the right direction.

With the window rapidly approaching, the hierarchy have wasted no time in trying to conduct business, looking to make a quick start in their ambitions of improving the side.

The latest on United’s hunt for summer signings

A striker has been at the top of United’s shopping list in recent weeks, as seen by their pursuit of landing Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap ahead of the summer window.

It was reported at one stage that the 22-year-old was their top target for the centre-forward position, but their hunt appears to have switched to Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta.

The hierarchy have already made contact to sign the Frenchman, looking to land a new talisman, with the 27-year-old being a good option given his tally of 14 league goals in 2024/25.

However, despite their hunt for attackers, a new midfielder is also on the agenda, with Atalanta star Ederson the latest player touted with a switch to Old Trafford.

According to Fabrizio Romano, reporting for GIVEMESPORT, the Red Devils are already in talks over a move for the Brazilian, potentially partnering one of his compatriots at the club should they secure deals for the pair.

Why Ederson would be perfect for Cunha at United

Wolves forward Matheus Cunha appears to be the club’s number one target this summer, that’s if the latest rumours are to be believed over his potential move.

It was confirmed in recent days that the two sides were in talks over a deal that would see Amorim’s men trigger the 25-year-old’s £62.5m release clause in his contract.

Such a deal would improve the options at the manager’s disposal, with his tally of 14 league goals undoubtedly handing United the added attacking threat they’ve craved.

He could be aided in his attempts by Ederson should he, too, move to the Theatre of Dreams, with the 25-year-old having all the tools to provide Cunha with opportunities in attacking areas.

The Brazilian, who’s been labelled as a “monster” by The Mirror’s Ryan Taylor, has starred in possession this campaign, registering a staggering 6.5 progressive passes per 90 – handing Cunha with the ammunition needed in attacking areas.

Ederson’s stats for Atalanta in Serie A (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

32

Goals & assists

5

Pass accuracy

87%

Progressive passes

6.5

Passes into final third

5.3

Passes into 18-yard box

1.3

Tackles won

1.5

Interceptions made

1.2

Aerials won

1.3

Stats via FBref

He’s also completed 5.3 passes into the final third at a completion rate of 87%, showcasing his impressive ability with the ball at his feet this year in Serie A.

Out of possession, Ederson has also impressed, winning 1.5 tackles per 90 and making 1.2 interceptions per game, having the ball-winning talents to be the perfect box-to-box option for Amorim.

If the side are to make the leap back up the league table in 2025/26, it’s pivotal that the board backs the manager in his quest to allow him to be a success in the role.

It’s unclear how much deals for Cunha and Ederson would set the hierarchy back in the upcoming window, but the pair are two additions that need to be made to improve the current situation.

Better than Cunha: Man Utd in contact to sign another "world-class" forward

Manchester United could be about to land a star who could transform their fortunes in attacking areas.

ByEthan Lamb Apr 25, 2025

Upgrade on Rashford: Man Utd leading the race to sign £30m "monster"

Manchester United are down to the bare bones in attacking areas for the rest of the 2024/25 campaign. Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho are the only natural attacking players left for Ruben Amorim to select from this term, not counting the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount, who can play as number 10s.

Joshua Zirkzee picked up a hamstring injury at the weekend against Newcastle United and could miss the rest of the season. Meanwhile, winger Amad has now been out for some time with an ankle injury.

This will surely bear weight in the transfer window, with United needing to add reinforcements in attack to avoid situations where they are thin on the ground in terms of depth. In fact, they have been linked with one player who could do just that.

Latest on Man Utd's search for a forward

If there is one player who is wanted by a multitude of Premier League clubs during the 2025 summer transfer window, it is Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap. Well, United are certainly one of the sides interested in signing him this summer.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

In fact, according to a recent report from TEAMtalk, the Red Devils have had ‘a major breakthrough’ in their pursuit of the England under-21 star. Their sources suggest United’s ‘package is far more solid’ than any other side in pursuit, with the Old Trafford outfit having moved ahead in the race.

The main competitor to Amorim’s side for Delap’s signature is reportedly Chelsea, as well as their North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal.

Ipswich Town'sLiamDelapreacts

Whichever side wins the race for Delap, they would have to pay just £30m due to a relegation release clause in his contract at Portman Road.

Why Delap would be a good signing

Despite the Tractor Boys’ struggles in the Premier League this term, it has been a season to remember for the former Manchester City academy star Delap. Football statistician Statman Dave believes he is “going straight to the very top”, and there is certainly evidence of that this term.

Liam Delap

The 22-year-old has 12 goals and two assists in 31 top-flight appearances this term. That is even more impressive when you consider Kieran McKenna’s side have scored just 33 times in the top flight, with Delap’s 12 an impressive 36% of their goals.

Another thing to note about the England under-21 striker is his ability to score against some of the biggest clubs in the Premier League. This season, he scored twice at home in a 2-2 draw against Aston Villa and also has goals against Spurs and Chelsea.

Should the Red Devils bring Delap to the club this summer, he could prove to be the perfect upgrade on Marcus Rashford. The England international is currently on loan at Aston Villa, where he has an impressive three goals and six assists in 15 games, including this exceptional assist against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

Villans boss Unai Emery said it “depends on the circumstances” as to whether he will stay at the club from United. Delap – who has been dubbed a “monster” by teammate Alex Palmer – has enjoyed a more successful campaign in the Premier League than the deadly attacker, who has just five goals and four assists for United and Villa.

So, from a goals and assists point of view, the Ipswich star would arguably improve United’s squad, although Rashford offers lots outside of goal involvements. However, Delap is outscoring Hojlund this term, who has just three top-flight goals.

Not only that, his underlying numbers are better across the board than the United number nine. For example, as per Squawka, he averages 1.2 shots on target and has a 24.49% conversion rate per 90 minutes, compared to Hojlund’s 0.6 shots on target and 17.65% conversion rate each game.

Delap vs. Hojlund key stats 2024/25

Stat (per 90)

Delap

Hojlund

Shots on target

1.2

0.6

Goals

0.5

0.2

Conversion rate

24.49%

17.65%

Chances created

0.8

0.8

Take-ons completed

1.5

0.4

Aerial duels won

2.1

1.2

Stats from Squawka

A deal to sign Delap seems like a perfect move for United. Not only is he cost-efficient, but he is proven in the Premier League and is outperforming some of their biggest stars, including Rashford, when it comes to goals and assists.

This seems like a dream market opportunity for Amorim’s side, who can elevate the squad and make them even more deadly in front of goal.

He's another Fernandes: INEOS readying Man Utd offer for £51m "magician"

Man Utd could be targeting a perfect successor to Bruno Fernandes this summer

ByRobbie Walls Apr 15, 2025

Arteta now "determined" to sign £200k-per-week Man United player at Arsenal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes that a high-earning Man United player would fit right into his first team at the Emirates, according to a report, with sporting director Andrea Berta and co now planning to open transfer talks.

Berta considering deal for Saka alternative at Arsenal

While Berta’s “top priority” is agreeing a contract extension with star winger Bukayo Saka, as per Fabrizio Romano, it has also been reported that the 53-year-old is considering the possibility of bringing in an alternative to the Englishman this summer.

Berta has Arsenal in "pole position" to sign cut-price Brazil international

The transfer chief’s influence is tipped to play a vital role.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 3, 2025

Saka was a sore miss during his lengthy lay-off due to a hamstring injury, with the £195,000-per-week star finally returning to action this week in Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Fulham – scoring their second and playing a crucial role as Arteta’s side grabbed all three points.

Arsenal’s next five Premier League games

Date

Everton (away)

April 5th

Brentford (home)

April 12th

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

TBD

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

His absence seriously debilitated Arteta, who watched on from the sidelines as Liverpool eventually seized a huge gap at the top of the Premier League table, with Arne Slot’s side now looking certain to win this year’s domestic crown.

According to GiveMeSport, Berta is pondering the transfer of a Saka stand-in who can provide a real quality and an attacking threat when the 23-year-old is unavailable – as Arsenal look to avoid being left short again in another title challenge next term.

We’ve already seen Arsenal repeatedly linked with a move for Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams this week, who’s capable of playing both on the left and right, while some reports believe Berta could land versatile Wolves forward Matheus Cunha.

New targets are likely to emerge before the first summer transfer window on June 1st, and a very surprising name has now come to light.

Mikel Arteta "determined" to sign Antony for Arsenal

According to reports in Spain, £200,000-per-week Man United outcast Antony is now being considered by Berta.

The Brazilian has seriously come into his own since departing Old Trafford on a loan deal to Real Betis, notching four goals and four assists in 12 appearances, including some big performances in Europe which helped the La Liga side to a Conference League quarter-final place.

Antony’s rejuvenated form has caught the eye of Arsenal’s head coach specifically, who is said to be a big admirer of the former Ajax sensation not wanted by Ruben Amorim.

Indeed, it is believed Arteta is “determined” to sign Antony for Arsenal, and sees the 25-year-old as perfect for his system. In response, Berta and Arsenal intend to open swift negotiations and want to secure his signature “as soon as possible”.

Arsenal are also prepared to submit a significant bid for Antony and better any offer made by Betis to keep him permanently. United, meanwhile, think the next window will be a golden opportunity to cut their losses on the forward.

Sky journalist drops major Glasner update as Klopp eyes Crystal Palace blow

Amid an incredible run of form, Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg has now delivered the latest update on Oliver Glasner’s Crystal Palace future with one move already made.

Jurgen Klopp makes contact with Palace boss Glasner

The Eagles have been excellent since the turn of the year, putting the frustrations of the first-half of the campaign to one side and pushing on to secure a place in the FA Cup semi-finals and pushing for a top-half finish. If there were any questions over Glasner’s ability to take this current side to a new level then those have now been answered in emphatic fashion.

Crystal Palace racing to sign "phenomenal" Arsenal man to replace Freedman

Arsenal are desperate to keep him…

ByTom Cunningham Apr 1, 2025

Without a defeat to their name in their last five games in all competitions and with just one goal conceded in that time, the sky is the limit for Palace as the Premier League season nears its conclusion. Glasner, even after losing Michael Olise last summer, has found a way to turn his side into the best version that Selhurst Park has seen during his tenure.

That success could yet come with unfortunate consequences. Just as Olise’s form did last season, top European clubs will be keeping an eye on the Austrian manager as he continues to impress on all fronts.

According to Sky Sports’ Plettenberg, RB Leipzig and Red Bull chief Jurgen Klopp have now made contact with Glasner over a move to the German club after they sacked Marco Rose last week. With just over a year remaining until the Austrian’s Palace contract runs out, Leipzig will have to pay a fee but will at least have the chance to trigger an exit option – much to the Eagles’ frustration.

After such an impressive run, Palace will undoubtedly be desperate to keep hold of Glasner, who they’ll hope feels there’s still work to be done in South London.

Crystal Palace must do everything to keep Glasner

For some time, Crystal Palace were stuck in a Roy Hodgson cycle which may have kept them up – and he deserves great credit for that – but ultimately settled for mediocrity. Patrick Vieira threatened to disrupt that only for his reign to end in failure and the cycle to continue. Glasner, however, hasn’t just disrupted it, he’s torn the usual script apart.

With the chance to step into an FA Cup final with victory over Aston Villa this month, Glasner has it all to play for at Crystal Palace and should hand both Klopp and Leipzig a swift rejection.

Gardner takes captaincy step with Sydney Sixers leadership

The allrounder replaces Ellyse Perry as the club look to the future after just one finals appearance in six seasons

Tristan Lavalette07-Nov-2025

Ash Gardner will be looking to restore Sydney Sixers’ standing•Getty Images

Ashleigh Gardner will further her leadership development after taking the reins from Ellyse Perry as captain of Sydney Sixers, a WBBL franchise hoping to recapture their former standing.The transition signals a new era after Perry had captained Sixers since the inaugural season in 2015-16, yielding back-to-back titles in the second and third seasons of WBBL. But Sixers’ status as an on-field powerhouse has faded away having failed to qualify for the finals in five of the past six seasons.Related

Tayla Vlaeminck 'shattered' to miss another WBBL

Chinelle Henry's thoughts with Jamaica ahead of first WBBL season

FAQs – What's in store for you at WBBL 2025-26?

It is a major reset for Sixers under the fresh leadership of Gardner and new head coach Matthew Mott, the former coach of the Australia women’s team and England men’s white-ball sides.Gardner, 28, has been an integral part of the Sixers from the start, holding the club record for games (135) and wickets (102), while also sitting third for runs (2607). She has long been viewed as an Australia captain in the making, particularly impressing over the years in promoting Indigenous culture and history.Gardner should be in the mix to succeed Alyssa Healy, who confirmed the recent ODI World Cup would be her last in that format. Earlier this year, Gardner was the vice-captain on the T20I tour of New Zealand, where Tahlia McGrath captained in Healy’s absence.Her Sixers appointment follows being handed the captaincy of Gujarat Giants in the Women’s Premier League and Trent Rockets in the Hundred.”I’m honoured to be appointed captain of the Sydney Sixers, a club I’ve proudly represented for my whole career,” Gardner said. “Over the past decade I’ve learned from some amazing leaders, including Pez [ Perry] and Midge [Healy] at the Sixers, and I can’t wait to lead the team.”Perry, 35, will remain at Sixers for at least the next three seasons. “It’s been an immense pleasure to have the opportunity to lead the Sixers over the last ten years,” she said.”Ash has offered so much to Sixers on-and-off the field and her strong interest in giving her best as a leader will be an exciting starting point for our team this season.”Healy will miss Sixers’ season-opener due to a minor thumb injury sustained in the World Cup semi-final. The injury will be monitored when she returns to training next week.Sixers start their campaign against Perth Scorchers on Sunday at the WACA.Meanwhile, Melbourne Renegades captain Sophie Molineux will miss the opening two matches as she manages a minor quad strain. Georgia Wareham will take the captaincy in her absence.

The new Milenkovic: Edu chasing move to sign “sensational” CB for Forest

Nottingham Forest have endured a superb upturn in form under Sean Dyche over the last few weeks after the manager took the reins from Ange Postecoglou.

The Englishman has reinstalled a defensive solidity back into the first-team squad, as seen by the club’s recent upturn in form in the Premier League.

His side have only lost twice in his eight games in the role, with his Red managing to keep four clean sheets in the process – including one against Liverpool at Anfield.

The Reds may have lost 2-0 to Brighton and Hove Albion over the weekend, but it’s merely a bump in the road, especially considering the excellent results since his arrival.

However, with the January transfer window rapidly approaching, numerous players have already appeared on their radar to try and bolster the ranks for the remainder of the campaign.

Forest’s hunt for new additions in the January window

In recent weeks, a whole host of players have been touted with a move to join Forest, but Brighton’s Jack Hinshelwood stands out as one of the most consistent players touted with a transfer.

It was reported that Dyche’s side saw the 20-year-old as their primary target for the winter window, but it was unclear about how much a deal would set Evangelos Marinakis back.

However, it seems as though the youngster won’t be departing the AMEX this window, with Fabian Hurzeler’s men not entertaining any offers for his signature.

He’s not the only player currently being considered by the Reds at present, with Inter Milan star Stefan de Vrij another player currently being considered by the club at present.

According to Football Insider, Dyche’s side are keen on a move to land the Dutch international, with the player having just six months left on his deal at the San Siro.

They also state that the board are in the market for added defensive reinforcements in the winter window, which could make the 33-year-old the perfect target.

Why Forest’s latest target would be Milenkovic 2.0

Signing centre-backs from Serie A hasn’t been alien to Forest over recent seasons, with Nikola Milenkovic joining the club from Fiorentina in the summer of 2024.

The Serbian international joined for just £12m, with such a deal being one of the best deals in the club’s history – as seen by his immediate impact in the Premier League last campaign.

He featured in all but one game last campaign, even scoring five times and registering two assists – showcasing his impressive ability at both ends of the pitch.

The 28-year-old managed to win the club’s Player of the Season award in 2024/25, helping the Reds secure European football for the first time in 30 years.

This campaign, he’s still managed to be a key component in the side’s backline, featuring in every minute of the league season and offering the defensive solidity needed in Dyche’s system.

He’s often partnered Murillo at the heart of the defence, but Morato covered his compatriot against the Seagulls at the weekend – even producing a huge mistake which contributed to the defeat.

Such a scenario has no doubt led to rumours over a move for De Vrij in the coming months, which could see a repeat of the deal that saw Milenkovic move to the East Midlands.

The Dutchman, who earns £118k-per-week, has only made two appearances so far this campaign, but he has produced some remarkable stats which could see him thrive in the Premier League.

De Vrij, who’s been dubbed “sensational” by journalist Nima Roodsari, has completed 94% of the passes he’s completed, whilst also completing 100% of the dribbles he’s attempted.

Stefan de Vrij – stats in 2025/26

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

2

Minutes played

180

Pass accuracy

94%

Dribble success

100%

Tackles made

2

Duels won

5.5

Aerials won

3.5

Aerial success

60%

Stats via FBref

Such numbers reflect the centre-back’s talent with the ball at his feet – something which is extremely important within the current philosophy at the City Ground.

Without the ball, he’s been just as impressive in Italy’s top division, as seen by his tally of two tackles and 5.5 duels won per 90 for Cristian Chivu’s Inter Milan squad.

Other numbers, such as 3.5 aerials won per 90, subsequently achieving a success rate of 60%, showcase his dominance out of possession – matching Milenkovic’s talents in the Premier League in recent years.

It’s unclear how much a deal for the Dutchman would cost in the upcoming window, but he certainly could offer an experienced and immediate option at the back.

Should he reach the levels produced by Milenkovic in Nottingham, there’s no reason why De Vrij could make himself a fan-favourite in the hunt for European success come the end of the campaign.

Perfect for Anderson: Nottingham Forest make £21m PL star their top target

Nottingham Forest have their eyes on another Premier League star ahead of the January transfer window.

ByEthan Lamb Nov 27, 2025

مجموعة تونس في كأس العالم 2026

انتهت منذ قليل، مراسم قرعة بطولة كأس العالم 2026 المقامة في كأس الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية والمكسيك وكندا، في مركز “جون كينيدي” بمدينة نيويورك.

وتشهد النسخة المقبلة من كأس العالم 2025 لأول مرة مشاركة 48 منتخبًا في نسخة واحدة، من بينها حضور عربي قياسي يضم 7 منتخبات عربية.

طالع | الذكاء الاصطناعي يتنبأ ببطل كأس العالم 2026.. وحظوظ المغرب

وأسفرت القرعة عن وقوع منتخب تونس في المجموعة السادسة والتي تضم هولندا واليابان و المتأهل من أوكرانيا ضد السويد و بولندا ضد ألبانيا.

وكان منتخب تونس قد ودع من دور المجموعات في النسخة الماضية من بطولة كأس العالم 2022 التي أقيمت في قطر.

وتأهل منتخب تونس، متصدرًا مجموعته في التصفيات الإفريقية المؤهلة إلى كأس العالم والتي ضمت نامبيا وليبيريا وغينيا الاستوائية ومالاوي وساو توميه برينسيب. مجموعة تونس في كأس العالم

– تونس

– هولندا 

– اليابان

– المتأهل من أوكرانيا ضد السويد و بولندا ضد ألبانيا

 

São Paulo x Palmeiras: onde assistir ao vivo, horário e escalações do jogo pelo Brasileirão

MatériaMais Notícias

O São Paulo recebe o Palmeiras nesta segunda-feira (29), pela quarta rodada do Campeonato Brasileiro. A bola rola a partir das 20h (de Brasília), no Morumbis, com transmissão do Premiere.

continua após a publicidade

Confira abaixo todas as informações que você precisa saber sobre o confronto (onde assistir, horário, escalações e local).

Placar exato! Coloque R$100 no Lance! Betting e fature R$470 no placar que mais se repetiu em São Paulo x Palmeiras

➡️ Tudo sobre o Verdão agora no WhatsApp. Siga o nosso novo canal Lance! Palmeiras

✅ FICHA TÉCNICA
São Paulo x Palmeiras – Campeonato Brasileiro
4ª rodada

🗓️Data e horário:segunda-feira, 29 de abril de 2024, às 20h (hora de Brasília)
📍Local:Morumbis, em São Paulo (SP)
📺Onde assistir:Premiere
🟨Arbitragem:Wilton Pereira Sampaio (árbitro); Bruno Raphael Pires e Luanderson Lima dos Santos (auxiliares); Wagner Reway (VAR).

➡️ Tudo sobre o Tricolor agora no WhatsApp. Siga o nosso novo canal Lance! São Paulo

⚽ PROVÁVEIS ESCALAÇÕES

SÃO PAULO
Rafael; Igor Vinicius, Arboleda, Alan Franco, Diego Costa e Welington; Bobadilla e Alisson; Calleri, Luciano e André Silva; Calleri. Técnico: Luis Zubeldía.

continua após a publicidade

PALMEIRAS
Weverton; Marcos Rocha, Gustavo Gómez, Murilo e Piquerez; Richard Ríos, Aníbal Moreno e Raphael Veiga; Endrick, Estêvão e Flaco López. Técnico: Abel Ferreira.

Tudo sobre

BrasileirãoCorinthiansFutebol NacionalOnde assistirPalmeiras

How Middlesbrough feel about Raphael Wicky as Swiss manager holds Riverside talks

Still searching for their next manager, Middlesbrough are now reportedly serious about hiring Swiss manager Raphael Wicky, who has emerged as an early candidate to take the job.

Unlike other managerial vacancies in the Championship, coaches would be walking into a fairly healthy environment at Middlesbrough. The Teesside club currently sit second in England’s second tier and five points behind leaders Coventry City. As things stand, they will be earning promotion to the Premier League come May.

A lot can still change, however, and Boro must get their next manager right whilst they are in such a positive position. Just who that next manager is remains the question. Steven Gerrard, Tony Mowbray and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink have all been mentioned as early candidates, with Gerrard the most interesting option of the three.

The former Rangers boss recently rejected the chance to return to Ibrox, but is keen to make a return to the dugout for the right job. With Boro on course to fight for automatic promotion in the Championship, it’s tough to pick out a reason why most managers of Gerrard’s calibre wouldn’t want to walk straight into the job before the end of the international break.

Replacing Rob Edwards, who chose to leave for Wolverhampton Wanderers, will be no easy task for any potential candidate. As much as he has ruined his reputation with those in Teesside, the former Luton Town boss certainly steered the club in the right direction and attempted to explain his decision in a recent statement.

Boro fans are unlikely to forgive or forget any time soon, however, and must instead hope that the club’s next appointment continues their push for automatic promotion.

Middlesbrough get serious about appointing Raphael Wicky

As reported by Sports Boom, Middlesbrough are now serious about appointing Wicky after he impressed Riverside chiefs with an unofficial presentation. The Swiss manager is currently a free agent and will be easier to convince as a result, but that’s not to say the 48-year-old isn’t an impressive candidate.

During his time in Switzerland, Wicky won the league and cup double with BSC Young Boys and his 4-4-2 diamond system proved to be incredibly successful. If Middlesbrough fail to hire the likes of Gerrard, then the former Young Boys manager is someone who’d offer them similar experience and success.

Middlesbrough keen on Championship title-winning manager alongside Gerrard

Steve Gibson’s search for a new permanent Boro boss is underway.

1 ByCharlie Smith Nov 13, 2025

The manager’s style also includes an exciting high press, which could yet help Boro bridge the gap on an exciting Coventry side at the top of the Championship.

The fact is, although they run the risk of getting their next appointment wrong, Riverside chiefs could also take their side up another level entirely if they get things right.

As things stand, the battle seems to be between Gerrard and Wicky for the job. With both holding similar reputations though, it remains to be seen which direction Middlesbrough head towards.

Middlesbrough make "impressive" manager top target to replace Edwards

Game
Register
Service
Bonus