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Kaizer Chiefs have announced the signing of Keagan Dolly and Cole Alexander who are both returning to the Premier Soccer League after stints overseas. 

Both players join Chiefs on three-year deals and Alexander has already started training with the club while D0olly is expected to link up with his new teammates on Thursday.

The coming in of Dolly completes an old combination with Khama Billiat and Leonardo Castro which fired up Mamelodi Sundowns some years ago. 

Dolly is back in the PSL after four and half seasons in Ligue 1 while turning out for Montpellier.

He comes to Amakhosi to be reunited with Billiat and Castro after their partnership became the talk of the season when Sundowns won the Caf Champions League in 2016.

Joining Chiefs puts to bed rumours that the 28-year-old was headed to Al Ahly to link up with his former coach Pitso Mosimane. 

“Dolly will reunite with Khama Billiat and Leonardo Castro after playing with them in the same team in 2014/15, while Alexander will be happy to reconnect with Sifiso Hlanti, Kgaogelo Sekgota, Brandon Peterson and Phathutshedzo Nange who were his teammates at Wits just over a year ago,” said Chiefs in a statement.

“Dolly has a two-year option on his contract and Alexander has a one-year option.  Dolly was in France with Montpellier where he spent five seasons. Before moving to Europe, he played for Mamelodi Sundowns and Ajax Cape Town. 

The 28-year-old is a product of the [Safa] School of Excellence. The winger will don jersey number 10 for the next three years. Alexander joins Chiefs from Indian Club, Odisha, where he spent just one season. The player will be reunited with Coach Stuart Baxter who was in charge of Odisha at the time. The hardworking midfielder will wear jersey number 17 at Chiefs.”

Dolly takes over shirt number 10 from Siphelele Ntshangase.

Most players donning the famous number have struggled to shine at Amakhosi.

Alexander joins Chiefs a few days after quitting Indian Super League side Odisha FC where he was coached by Stuart Baxter. 

At 32, Alexander justifies Baxter’s reputation of trust in experienced players.

The latest signings join Peterson, Nange, Hlanti, Sekgota, Njabulo Ngcobo, Austin Dube and Sibusiso Mabiliso who have been signed by Amakhosi this July. 

Meanwhile, Chiefs have extended the contracts of Billiat, goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune, Lebogang Manyama and Bernard Parker and Ramahler Mphahlele. 

Khune is the longest-serving player in the current team as he has been a part of the senior team set-up since 2004," Chiefs announced.

"The goalkeeper has been given two years’ extension to his contract. This means the player will go into his record-equalling 18th season with Kaizer Chiefs’ senior team. He joins Patrick ‘Ace’ Ntsoelengoe in the record books of Amakhosi. Ntsoelengoe played for Chiefs from 1970 and retired in 1988.

"Amakhosi have also signed another one-year contract with option to extend for a further year with attacking midfielder Lebogang Manyama. The Alexandra township-born player arrived at Chiefs from Konyaspor in Turkey in the 2017/18 and has been a key player for the Glamour Boys.

"Captain Bernard Parker will get to play in his 11th season for Amakhosi as he has also been given a one-year contract extension. The attacker played 42 games last season for Chiefs, making him the second most capped player of the 2020/21 season. He also captained the team in the latter part of the season. He played and captained 13 of the 15 CAF Champion league games for Chiefs last season.

"Defender Mphahlele has also received a contract extension for the next season with a one-year option. The Ga-Mphahlele born player joined Chiefs in 2016. He was appointed captain of the team at the start of the season but also struggled with injuries. He will go into his 6th season with Amakhosi.

"Chiefs have also extended Khama Billiat’s contract. He will be with Amakhosi for two more seasons after signing for two years. The Zimbabwean attacking midfielder arrived at Chiefs in 2018 ahead of the 2018/19 season."

The USWNT will meet the Netherlands in the Olympics soccer quarter-finals, while Great Britain are set to face Australia for a place in the last four.

The group stage of the women's tournament is now complete, with Chile, Zambia, China and New Zealand all sent packing after the latest round of matches.

Team GB have advanced as Group E winners, while the USWNT have finished second in Group G behind Sweden as they continue to chase down another gold medal.

The USWNT's journey so far

The United States were initially billed as heavy favourites to win the tournament due to their status as the reigning world champions, but suffered a surprise 3-0 defeat to Sweden in their opening fixture last Wednesday.

Vlatko Andonovski's side bounced back from that disappointment to thrash New Zealand 6-1 at the weekend, and that result left them needing just a point from their final pool outing against Australia.

The USWNT drew 0-0 with the Matildas on Tuesday to book their place in the last eight, but will likely have to raise their game in order to get any further after another unconvincing display in Tokyo.

The game against the Netherlands will be a repeat of the 2019 World Cup final, which the USWNT won 2-0 in France.

Team GB's journey so far

Team GB opened their Olympics campaign with an impressive 2-0 victory over Chile, with Ellen White grabbing both the goals for Hege Riise's team.

White was the matchwinner again on matchday two as Team GB beat Japan 1-0 to make sure of their spot in the quarter-finals.

They then wrapped up their group-stage schedule with a 1-1 draw against Canada, with a late Caroline Weir effort cancelling out Adriana Leon's opener and securing top spot in the group.

Who else has made the quarter-finals?

Sweden will be protecting their 100 per cent record when they take on Japan, and Canada are due to come up against Brazil, with all four of the quarter-final ties scheduled to take place on Friday, July 30.

Quarter-final draw in full:

Canada vs Brazil

Great Britain vs Australia

Sweden vs Japan

Netherlands vs United States

Further reading

Lucas Torreira admits the "bad time" he endured during his second season at Arsenal in 2019-20 saw him seek the help of a psychologist.

The Uruguay international midfielder saw plenty of football for the Gunners after joining from Sampdoria in 2018, but took in a managerial change as a coaching baton passed from Unai Emery to Mikel Arteta.

He also suffered a serious ankle injury in March 2020, with a lack of continuity in his game leading him to seek out professional assistance in a mental health battle.

What has been said?

Torreira told El Otro Partido: "A year ago I was working with a psychologist in Spain because, in the second year at Arsenal, I played very little.

"It was hard for me to really take it in because my life depends on football and when I don’t play I have a very bad time, I am in a very bad mood and many things happen.

"That’s why I started with him and he was giving me a hand with that topic.

"Many years ago they would say to you 'but how are you going to go to a psychologist, are you crazy?' And today it is very important, especially for those of us who experience a lot of situations in terms of being away from your family."

Heartache for Torreira

The 25-year-old was loaned out to Atletico Madrid for the 2020-21 campaign, but was unable to nail down a regular role with the Liga title winners.

He also lost his mother to coronavirus in March and found it difficult at that stage to juggle personal and professional commitments.

Torreira added: "I wanted to stay in Fray Bentos with my family. I had very little desire to go back to Spain because I had to stay there alone.

"Luckily one of my brothers left with me, but I wanted to be here, with my father, because he was the one who was suffering the most and the one who was hurt the most by this whole situation.

"He was always with my mother, they went everywhere together and today seeing him alone is a very hard blow that we find difficult to take in and we try to be with him, to help him, accompany him and also hold him so that he does not fall because now we have to continue, for us, for him and because the most important reason to continue living is always going to be our mother."

Further reading

Erling Haaland is sparking talk of a record-setting transfer to Chelsea, with the Borussia Dortmund striker admitting that €175 million (£150m/$207m) is "a lot of money" as he finds himself at the centre of intense rumours.

The prolific Norwegian striker is one of the most sought-after talents in world football, with his stock continuing to soar on the back of a remarkable run in German football that has delivered 57 goals through 59 appearances.

Thomas Tuchel is said to want those qualities at Stamford Bridge, while talk of interest from Manchester rivals United and City is never far away, but Haaland has held no meetings with his agent and is reading little into the speculation.

What has been said?

Haaland told reporters when quizzed on his supposed €175m valuation at Dortmund's summer training camp: "Before yesterday I hadn't spoken with my agent for a month. So there you have the answer. 

"I hope it’s only rumours because it’s a lot of money for a player."

Will Haaland be on the move this summer?

Dortmund have already sanctioned a £73m ($101m) move to Manchester United for Jadon Sancho in the current window and they are reluctant to part with any other prized assets, with Haaland sat at the top of that list.

The Bundesliga giants have the 21-year-old tied to a contract through to 2024, so are under no pressure to sell at this stage.

Haaland is also offering no indication that he will be pushing for an exit, with an ambitious character happy where he is.

He added when pushed further on his future, with a DFB-Pokal triumph in 2020-21 delivering him a first piece of silverware with BVB: "First of all I have three years left on my contract. 

"I’m enjoying my time here. But of course the trophy was important because that's what I want."

Further reading

Rafa Benitez is giving little away when it comes to James Rodriguez's future at Everton, with the Toffees boss having no issue with the Colombian's ability but admits his fitness is not where it needs to be.

The South American playmaker continues to see a summer move away from Goodison Park mooted after just one season in English football.

He struggled to settle initially, despite having the familiar face of Carlo Ancelotti calling the shots, and has nursed injury problems of late that prevented him from figuring for his country at the Copa America.

What has been said?

Moves to Italy or Spain are being speculated on for former Real Madrid star James, with Benitez unable to rule the 30-year-old in or out of his plans at this stage.

The Spaniard told reporters when asked for his take on James: "At the beginning of the pre-season, it is not easy.

"I think you can see he has the quality on the ball but still his fitness is not what we are expecting, so it is normal at this time.

"So, we will see, obviously, we have more training sessions and more games so we will see how he is going on and every player. It depends on them, if they can make a difference or not.

"But at the moment it is seeing how they progress and how they can improve but nobody can argue about the quality of James."

James' record at Everton

A proven performer at the very highest level was reunited with his ex-Real boss Ancelotti during the summer of 2020.

His creative qualities were never in doubt, but he failed to make the expected impact in English football.

James managed six goals and eight assists through his debut campaign, with 26 appearances taken in across all competitions.

He is only tied to a contract through to 2022, so decisions need to be made in the current window about whether to cash in or tie him down on fresh terms.

Further reading

Ugandan Hashim Sempala is a free agent after his contract with the Football Kenya Federation Premier League side Tusker FC expired.

The 26-year-old has been part of the Brewers squad that qualified for the Caf Champions League next season. The midfielder, who has been captaining the Ruaraka-based charges, has also played a great role in ensuring the team's chances of winning the league this season are high.

What are Tusker saying?

"We would like to confirm that our captain Hashim Sempala is leaving the club upon the expiry of his contract," Tusker posted on their official portal.

"The midfielder said his final goodbyes to his teammates after Tuesday morning’s training session."

Leaving for greener pastures 

The Brewers' chairman Daniel Aduda has revealed the midfielder opted to leave the team, and the club has decided to honour his request.

"We want to thank Hashim for his services and what he has offered to the club. We had a mutual conversation where he informed us of his intention to seek greener pastures after the expiry of his contract and as a club we respected his decision," the administrator said.

"He has served us diligently and we will forever be thankful for his work and contribution to the success of the club. He starred for us as we won the double in 2016 and we have many other fond memories of his time with us.

"We wish him all the best in his career and his endeavours as well,” concluded the club chairman."

Sempala had two spells with Tusker - he first joined them from the Ugandan Premier League side BUL FC in 2016. He had served the Ugandan side for one season.

He played for the Ruaraka charges for three years before ditching them for reigning league champions Gor Mahia in April 2019. However, he stayed at Gor Mahia for just four months before going back to the 11-time league champions.

However, his three-year contract with the club has now expired and it is not clear whether he will stay in the Kenyan top-tier or he will be looking for another team abroad.

Ivory Coast defender Serge Aurier has wished Erik Lamela good luck after his exit from Tottenham Hotspur.

Lamela was part of the deal that saw the Premier League outfit sign Bryan Gil after finalising the deal for a reported £22 million ($30m), as new manager Nuno Espírito Santo prepares for the new season.

In a status update on his social media account, the right full-back has stated he will miss the former teammate.

"I will really miss you little a**hole. I love you, my brother, I wish you the best for you and your family. I will not be able to take your money to the Uno but you will always be in my heart [brother]. Good luck," Aurier posted on his Instagram account.

Lamela, meanwhile, has joined Sevilla on a contract until 2024, bringing to an end his eight-year stay in the Premier League with Tottenham.

It is not clear whether Aurier will also remain in London. In May he conceded that he is keen on a move to PSG where he would be reunited with former coach Mauricio Pochettino.

"Everyone is aware that if I wanted to extend my deal at Tottenham, I would’ve done so already. I’m not going to do it in six months," he told L’Equipe.

"I’ve reached the end of a cycle and it’s time to look elsewhere. The two parties, Tottenham’s board and my agents, have agreed upon the conditions. We’ll see after that.

"I’ve never hidden my desire to return to PSG one day. It’s the club of my heart, the one that I support and I feel free to speak about it.

"But I don’t want people to think that I’m stuck on them and I’m not closing the door on anyone.

"But if the club were to make an offer this summer, it’s sure that PSG would be my first choice."

The defender further stated he had no problem with the Argentine despite being benched at Spurs.

"We had a great relationship, despite what happened," he said. "There was no serious problem between us but you are never the happiest player when you’re not on the pitch.

"I’ve always respected his work and his choices. I took pleasure in the style he wanted to play – and it’s the one he wants in Paris too.

"Physically, we were monsters. At PSG, we’ll really see his hand next season."

Zambia international Enock Mwepu has revealed his message to Brighton & Hove Albion striker Danny Welbeck ahead of the new season.

The 23-year-old midfielder, who was the first signing for manager Graham Potter after moving from Red Bull Salzburg, has explained what he told the former Arsenal striker.

“I’ve told Danny Welbeck, ‘You’re going to score a lot of goals this season. Just be ready for my assists!’ I’m going to set them up for him,” Mwepu said as quoted by the Athletic.

Mwepu has further revealed how he plans to emulate former Malian striker Frederic Kanoute in the Premier League.

“He has really been a great mentor to me,” Mwepu said of Kanoute. “He’s more than an agent; he’s like a father, a teacher. He’s always there to encourage me, to remind me what I’m supposed to do.

“To have such a mentor is very important for me as a player. We speak most of the time. He always checks up on me and asks how I am doing now that I’m here and how I’m settling in.

“Everyone is nice here but he’s always been there for me to help me out in my career.”

On his first day at pre-season training, Mwepu vowed to continue chasing his dreams.

“The first day at my new home,” Mwepu wrote on his Instagram page. “Living my dreams continues, can't wait to the start of the Premier League, and keep chasing your dreams."

On signing the player, Potter said: "We're delighted to be able to welcome Enock to the club and are looking forward to working with him.

"He has a great deal of experience for somebody of his age, including Champions League and international football.

"He's primarily a central midfielder, although he is capable of playing in numerous positions, is open-minded, adaptable, and very keen to learn and develop. He will add competition to our existing options in that area of the squad going into the new season.”

Mwepu's career began with Kafue Celtic in Lusaka before being identified with the 2013 Airtel Rising Stars. During the 2015–16 season, Mwepu enjoyed little game time with Power Dynamos of Copperbelt, and this resulted into a move to Napsa Stars at the end of the 2016 season.

In June 2017, Mwepu joined Red Bull Salzburg and was loaned out to Salzburg's feeder club Liefering who play in the Austrian Football First League.

Brighton will face Burnley in the season opener on August 14.

Sergio Aguero can fill a Luis Suarez-shaped void for Barcelona and Lionel Messi, claims Cesar Luis Menotti, with a club icon at Camp Nou expected to thrive alongside a fellow Argentine.

The Blaugrana made the surprising decision to part with Suarez in 2020 as they sanctioned a move for the experienced Uruguayan forward to La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid.

His absence hit hard in Catalunya, but another proven goalscorer has been acquired as a free agent and Aguero is expected to help bring the best out of a familiar face that is waiting on clearance to sign a new contract.

What has been said?

Former Barcelona and Argentina boss Menotti told Super Deportivo Radio: "Messi was a great friend of Suarez, I still don't know what Barcelona did to let him go, something that I think Messi felt a lot.

"And now Aguero is with him, they are always together and they have a very healthy relationship. 

"Messi is going to be happy with this crazy man who is divine, because he is funny and also does not have anything to prove. He is a character, a charming boy."

Is Messi happy at Barca?

The six-time Ballon d'Or winner has dropped into the free agent pool this summer.

Fresh terms have been agreed, but financial issues at Camp Nou are preventing the iconic 34-year-old from putting pen to paper.

Barca are prepared to be patient and Menotti sees his fellow countryman being happy and settled in his current surroundings 

He added: "Messi is at his best in every way: physically he is a boy who always prepares, who has not had serious injuries. 

"Emotionally, I also see him that way, today is Messi's best moment, because he looks happy.

"He is a footballer who, unlike others, is prepared to win a game in any way, to make his team-mates play well and to make his team play well. And look how difficult it is to be Messi."

Further reading

Tottenham defender Toby Alderweireld is set to complete a £13 million ($18m) move to Al-Duhail SC.

The Qatar-based outfit have reached an agreement to sign Alderweireld on a permanent deal, bringing to an end his six-year stay in north London.

The 32-year-old fell down the squad pecking order at Spurs last season and has decided to take up a new challenge in the Middle East instead of seeing his contract through to its 2023 expiry date.

What's been said?

Alderweireld has said his final goodbyes to Tottenham supporters in a post on social media, which reads: "Six years, two homes, a Champions League final and so many memories. You made me feel a part of your club the moment I walked out at White Hart Lane and roared us on, no matter what, into our new, special, stadium.

"Thank you first to the fans and then to my team-mates, and every incredible member of the Spurs staff, backroom and beyond.

"This club will always be in mine and my family's heart. Love Toby."

Spurs have released their own statement confirming the Belgian's imminent departure and have wished him well at his new club.

"We have reached an agreement with Al-Duhail SC in Qatar for the transfer of Toby Alderweireld" the press release states. "We wish Toby the very best for the future."

Alderweireld's Tottenham legacy

Spurs invested £14m ($19m) in Alderweireld's talents back in 2015, prising him away from Spanish giants Atletico Madrid on an initial five-year deal.

The towering centre-back went on to appear in 236 games for the north London club across all competitions, contributing nine goals and five assists to their cause.

Alderweireld struck up a formidable partnership at the back with fellow Belgium international Jan Vertonghen as Tottenham conceded just 26 goals en route to a runners-up Premier League finish in 2016-17.

He also played a key role in Spurs' run to the Champions League final in 2018-19, which they lost to Liverpool, and will likely be fondly remembered by supporters as he embarks on the next stage of his career.

Further reading

Kaizer Chiefs have responded to suggestions that they are close to signing midfielders Keagan Dolly and Cole Alexander.

The two players are currently free agents and they have been tipped to join the Soweto giants as the club continues its signing spree in the current transfer window.

Amakhosi have already signed seven new players and they are said to have now set their sights on completing the signings of Dolly and Alexander.

When contacted by Goal for a comment on the reported imminent deals, Chiefs' corporate communications manager Vina Maphosa could not deny or confirm whether the duo will be joining Amakhosi.

"When we announce a player we announce. Your answer will be in the announcement," Maphosa told Goal. 

Dolly is available on a free transfer after parting ways with French club Montpellier after his contract with the Ligue 1 side expired at the end of June 30.

The Bafana Bafana international spent four-and-half years with Montpellier having joined the club from Chiefs' PSL rivals, Mamelodi Sundowns midway through the 2016/17 season.

If Dolly does join Chiefs, the left-footed attacking midfielder would reunite with Leonardo Castro and Khama Billiat, with the trio having formed a deadly front three at Sundowns famously known as CBD.

The 28-year-old won the PSL title, Telkom Knockout and Caf Champions League title with Sundowns before he moved to Montpellier. 

While Alexander has been a free agent since last week after his contract with Indian side Odisha FC was terminated by mutual consent and he will reportedly replace Willard Katsande at Chiefs.

The hard-working central midfielder joined the Odisha on a two-year deal in October 2020 as he reunited with his former coach at SuperSport United, Stuart Baxter.

Baxter has since joined Chiefs and the British tactician is said to be pushing for the signing of the 30-year-old, who is a well-traveled player having turned out for Chippa United, Polokwane City among other clubs. 

Alexander was part of the SuperSport team which won the 2016/17 Nedbank Cup under Baxter before the experienced tactician was re-appointed Bafana Bafana head coach in May 2017.

Chelsea have reached an agreement to sign former Fulham goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli on a two-year contract, Goal can confirm.

The 29-year-old, who is now a free agent after leaving Fulham at the end of his deal, will undergo a medical at Chelsea's training ground on Tuesday before being officially unveiled.

The Blues have moved for Bettinelli to provide extra cover for Edouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga between the sticks after seeing third-choice shot-stopper Willy Caballero depart last month.

Bettinelli's credentials

Bettinelli initially graduated to Fulham's senior squad as a teenager in 2010, and went on to appear in 120 games for the club across all competitions.

The one-time England Under-21 international took in loan spells at Dartford and Accrington Stanley before establishing himself as a regular in the Cottagers' line-up, but was deemed surplus to requirements for the 2020-21 campaign.

Bettinelli was allowed to spend last season at Middlesbrough, and made 41 appearances as they finished 10th in the Championship.

What other business could be on the cards at Chelsea?

Now that Chelsea have lined up their three goalkeepers for the new season, they can turn their attention to landing potential targets in other areas of the pitch.

Thomas Tuchel guided the club to Champions League glory last season, but has been tipped to try and add a new striker to his ranks after seeing the likes of Timo Werner and Tammy Abraham struggle to deliver the goods consistently.

Olivier Giroud has also left Chelsea to join AC Milan, and the European champions are now being strongly linked with Borussia Dortmund's Erling Haaland, who is reportedly being valued in excess of £100 million ($138m).

The Blues have also been credited with an interest in Inter talisman Romelu Lukaku and Tottenham striker Harry Kane, while in midfield, West Ham's Declan Rice has been touted as a possible signing after a stellar Euro 2020 campaign with England.

Tuchel has admitted that he is expecting some outgoings too, with Danny Drinkwater, Tiemoue Bakayoko, Davide Zappacosta and Michy Batshuayi all currently out of favour and 18-year-old defender Tino Livramento thought to be closing in on a switch to Brighton.

Further reading

Paulo Dybala's agent has arrived in Italy for contract talks with Juventus, Goal has learned.

The Argentina international forward will see his current deal with Serie A giants expire in the summer of 2022.

Agreeing fresh terms with the 27-year-old has become a top priority for Juve, with the plan being to get a deal done quickly and bring any exit talk in Turin to a close.

When will talks be held?

Dybala's representative, Jorge Antun, is in Italy to continue discussions with Bianconeri bosses.

Talks have dragged on for some time, but face-to-face negotiations could deliver a positive outcome; however, Antun is having to quarantine for 10 days after travelling to Italy.

That is delaying matters slightly, but self-isolation is considered to be a minor inconvenience at this stage.

What could Dybala be offered?

The talented South American currently earns around €7 million (£6m/$8m) per season, but will see that salary raised to between eight or nine million as renewed terms are tabled.

Juve believe that offer will be considered acceptable by Dybala and his entourage.

Massimiliano Allegri is hoping that will be the case, with the returning Juve boss making it clear that the forward has a key role to play in his future plans.

Dybala's record at Juventus

Dybala has spent the last six years with the Bianconeri, having been snapped up from Palermo in 2015.

He has registered 100 goals for the club through 254 appearances and helped them to five Serie A titles and four Coppa Italia triumphs.

Moves elsewhere have been mooted at regular intervals, but efforts to tie him down long term at the Allianz Stadium are now being stepped up.

Further reading

Barcelona teenager Ilaix Moriba has revealed the racist abuse that he's been sent during his ongoing contract dispute with the club.

Moriba's future is the subject of much speculation at the moment, with Barca struggling to tie the 18-year-old down to fresh terms after seeing him enter the final 12 months of his current deal.

After breaking into the Blaugrana first-team squad last season, Moriba is now being left out of the club's pre-season plans, and has been receiving abuse online as a result of the saga.

What's been said?

The talented young midfielder took to social media on Monday to show his followers some of the hateful messages he has received, with many of the posts in question including monkey and middle finger emojis.

At the end of the Tik Tok video, the phrase "'en serio" appears on screen, which translates to asking the question "seriously?" in English.

@ilaixmk

…

Could Moriba leave Barca?

Goal has reported that the salary demands from Moriba's agents are proving to be the main sticking point in negotiations with Barca, who are currently trying to reduce their wage bill after exceeding La Liga's official limit at the end of the 2020-21 campaign.

The Spain U17 international already became the highest-paid youth player in the Blaugrana's history when he signed his first deal in 2019, and with the club currently refusing to take another financial risk with regards to a renewal, they could look to cash in on him this summer rather than lose him for nothing in 2022.

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea are all reportedly keeping a close eye on the situation, but Barca are still hopeful that they can reach a compromise with Moriba as they plan to reopen talks with his representatives this week.

Moriba's Barca record

Moriba made his senior debut for Barca in a round of 32 Copa del Rey fixture against Cornella in January, and has since appeared in a further 17 games for the Liga giants.

The young playmaker also has a goal and two assists to his name, but it remains to be seen whether he will be available for selection when Ronald Koeman's side kick off their new season at home to Real Sociedad on August 15.

Further reading

Sergio Ramos is seeing a debut for Paris Saint-Germain delayed by a calf problem, with the World Cup-winning defender being prevented from opening a new chapter in his career.

The 35-year-old centre-half has linked up with the Ligue 1 giants as a free agent after reaching the end of his contract at Real Madrid and bringing a 16-year spell at Santiago Bernabeu to a close.

He is being eased into the PSG fold by Mauricio Pochettino, with no risks being taken on his fitness, and the decision has been taken for him to sit out a friendly date with former club Sevilla on Tuesday.

What has been said?

A statement from PSG on the club's official website reads: "Sergio Ramos is gradually recovering from a solar lesion in the left calf suffered during training at the end of last week.

"His return to training is expected in a week."

When could Ramos make his debut for PSG?

The veteran Spain international will be disappointed to miss out on another reunion with Sevilla, having graduated through their academy ranks to become a senior star.

If he does not return to full training until next week, then he could also sit out PSG's first competitive outing of 2021-22.

Pochettino's side are due to face Ligue 1 champions Lille in the Trophee des Champions on Sunday, with more silverware on the line there.

Ramos may yet come into contention for that fixture, with PSG then set to open their new top-flight campaign away at Troyes on August 7.

Who else is nursing knocks?

Ramos is not the only player currently unavailable to PSG, with a number of other first-team stars nursing knocks.

The French heavyweights added when delivering a fitness update: "Rafinha is in treatment for a sprained knee.

"Colin Dagba is recovering from a sprained ankle.

"Juan Bernat continues his gradual recovery with the group with good feelings."

Further reading

Johnathan Mensah has made the Major League Soccer team of the week after his starring performance for Columbus Crew in a Major League Soccer match at the weekend.

The Ghana international's goal secured a vital 1-0 win against Atlanta United in the MLS match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday night. 

The 31-year-old made the difference after his well-timed back-post header following a Lucas Zelarayan corner-kick in the 65th minute enabled the Black & Gold to continue to climb up the Eastern Conference standings.

The goal was the first for the West African in the ongoing campaign, with his previous strike coming in July 2018, when he scored in the 3-2 win against New York Red Bulls. The win also enabled Columbus to extend their unbeaten run to six matches.

It is for the above reason the Ghanaian has been included in the team of the week.

Alex Bono of Toronto made 13 saves as his team beat Chicago Fire FC 2-1 and he has been preferred in goal. The three-man defence has Mensah, Justin Che, and Maxi Moralez. 

Julian Gressel and Maxi Moralez are in as wing-backs with the midfield being commanded by Remi Walter and Emmanuel Reynoso. 

The three-man attack is made up of Gustavo Bou, CJ Sapong, and Ricardo Pepi.

Eloy Room, Justen Glad, Chase Gasper, Jose Cifuentes, Yeferson Soteldo, Kacper Przybylko, and Valentin Castellanos have been mentioned on the substitutes bench.

Columbus head coach Caleb Potter was impressed with the way his team played and took no time in welcoming the away win.

"[An] unbelievable road win," Porter told the club’s official website. 

"I told the guys before the game that I felt like this was going to be our second win on the road. The main reason why was our confidence. We are a team that’s finding ways to win, get points and get results."

They will now be hoping to build on the result when they face New York City at Yankee Stadium on Friday.  

Roberto Carlos considers Luke Shaw to have been "the best player" at Euro 2020, with the Manchester United and England left-back earning the nickname 'Shawberto Carlos' on the back of some eye-catching displays for club and country.

That moniker had already been bestowed upon the rejuvenated 26-year-old before he linked up with the Three Lions for European Championship duty.

His reputation was enhanced during a memorable run to the final of a major international tournament, with the Red Devils defender providing three assists and a goal before suffering penalty shootout heartache against Italy.

What has been said?

Shaw can count the original Carlos among his ever-growing collection of fans, with the iconic Brazilian telling GQ of a man he is being likened to: "He was the best player in the tournament. 

"He has to keep it up; he has to continue playing like that. That’s important."

Is there more to come from England?

Gareth Southgate has overseen runs to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and 2019 Nations League, before going one better at Euro 2020.

The challenge now is to bring a 55-year wait for major silverware to a close, with Shaw and Co set to go in search of global glory at another World Cup in 2022.

Roberto Carlos expects England to go well in Qatar, with the 2002 champion adding: "I watched the entire Euros and the England team played really well. 

"Losing is part of the game, part of football, and I really do hope that they can do well at the World Cup. 

"If they can keep these standards up they deserve to win a trophy."

Who else will shine in 2022?

England will be among the contenders next winter, but a number of other nations - and leading lights within their respective ranks - will also be looking to shine, with some legendary figures chasing down the ultimate prize.

Asked who is looking forward to seeing, Roberto Carlos said: "I think it’ll be the same players as always: Kylian Mbappe, Nicolo Barella, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi and, of course, Neymar."

Further reading

Gor Mahia interim coach Sammy Omollo has challenged his charges to start better in order to avoid struggling to get back into matches.

On Monday, the reigning Football Kenya Federation Premier League champion went down to Ulinzi Stars by a solitary goal.

As a result, K’Ogalo have now gone for seven matches without registering a win and against the Soldiers, they were punished in the 17th minute when defender Alex Masinde headed home a rebound from goalkeeper Gad Mathews after Masuta Masita had delivered a free-kick from the right-wing.

The former Kenya international further believes his team should do better with the chances they create.

I hate to concede first

"We did not play well; I usually hate it when we concede and start chasing the game. It has been like that in the past few games which is not good," Omollo told Goal.

"Conceding first is not a good idea because nowadays many teams know how to defend, even if it is one goal. Ulinzi know how to defend and they were eventually rewarded.

"We should also try hard to use our set pieces; we had more than 10 corners and free-kicks in good areas. However, we did not use them. It is something we have to go and work on in our training sessions if we want to win matches.

"Failing to win several matches again works against any team because the pressure piles up."

Win against Gor Mahia is a confidence booster

Ulinzi Stars head coach Benjamin Nyangweso has welcomed the win over K'Ogalo, stating it is what they needed to relieve pressure.

He has commended his attacking department as well, stating his charges should have scored more than one goal.

"Yes, we were under pressure, it usually happens before matches, even before playing our next one there will be pressure," Nyangweso told Goal.

"I am happy we have managed to collect maximum points and getting it against Gor Mahia is a plus, a confidence booster considering the fact that they are one of the biggest teams in the country.

"We have been working harder in defence; we have been conceding fewer goals in with every passing game, and I am glad we did not concede against Gor Mahia which is a massive improvement. 

"The attack also did well, we would have scored more than a goal but the goalkeeper did well to save them. He made good saves, but the good thing is that we still managed to get a win.

"We would have scored about three goals or so; it was a good game for us. We have been losing matches, but the improvement has been tremendous." 

With the result, Gor Mahia find themselves in the eighth position on the log, with 40 points from 26 matches, while Ulinzi Stars are three points behind in 10th, having played a game more.

Kenya international Victor Wanyama has excited the CF Montreal fans after he exchanged his jersey for spaghetti after the team’s defeat to New England Revolution in a Major League Soccer fixture on Sunday.

The 30-year-old captained Montreal during the fixture they lost 2-1 at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, with Argentine Gustavo Bou notching the goals in the 29th and 73rd minutes for Revolution while Djordje Mihailovic pulled a goal back in the 79th minute.

But after the game, Wanyama did not let the defeat dampen his spirits or that of the fans as he produced a great gesture, exchanging his number two jersey with one of the supporters.

Wanyama gave out the jersey to a fan who was standing above the tunnel with a board scripted with a message “Will I trade spaghetti for Wanyama kit?”

Montreal have shared the video on their social media pages with a caption: “A solid exchange, Victor Wanyama loves his spaghetti.”

Wanyama’s love for spaghetti came into the limelight in May 2012, when his first tweet read: “I had spaghetti and it was very nice I enjoyed it.”

And immediately after he signed for Premier League outfit Tottenham Hotspur on a five-year deal from Southampton in 2016, the tweet was revisited by Spurs fans, some of them going to the extent of asking their chef to make sure the burly midfielder enjoys spaghetti while playing for the North London club.

Tottenham also responded to Wanyama’s tweet by saying: “We signed @VictorWanyama and he was very nice we enjoyed it.”

Below is how fans responded to Wanyama’s gesture after exchanging his jersey for spaghetti at the weekend.