Ange Postecoglou’s job is on the line, there’s no two ways about it — but his role in securing the signature of Mathys Tel proves to be a pivotal moment in his Tottenham tenure.
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The 19-year-old was desperate for game time after playing limited minutes for Bayern Munich this season and it was Spurs, alongside Manchester United and Chelsea vying for his signature.
Tottenham officials agreed a $120m AUD fee to sign Tel, but after chairman Daniel Levy flew to Munich to pitch his vision to the young gun, he baulked and declined the move.
That’s where Postecoglou stepped in.
The Australian picked up the phone and called Tel, offering his own view of the path forward and exactly where he saw the rising star fitting in his side.
Suddenly, Tel had a change of heart. Moving quickly, he travelled to London to initially sign on loan before he was convinced to insert a $90m AUD buy option in his contract, for a potential six-year deal.
His conversation with the former Celtic boss was a clear turning point, and that sequence of events sums up the situation Postecoglou finds himself precariously placed in.
“Remember on Friday, Spurs agreed a permanent deal with Bayern Munich but the player said he didn’t want the move and preferred a move to Arsenal, Aston Villa or Manchester United,” Sky Sports News’ Dharmesh Sheth said.
“They didn’t peruse the move. But Ange Postecoglou got on the phone, spoke to Tel personally and convinced him Spurs were the place to be.”
Multiple reports over Postecoglou’s future in north London have not been able to produce a consensus, with some putting the Australian on the brink, and others saying he’s safe for the foreseeable future.
Postecoglou himself admitted in January “I reckon there is probably a fair chunk that will say no” when asked if he will be Tottenham manager beyond the next three weeks.
However, Spurs’ Tel saga — specifically the way it ended — is suggestive of a slightly more secure future for Postecoglou than some have predicted.
Levy turned to Postecoglou in an attempt to try and finish the job he was unable to complete, while also allowing him to sign other players during his stint as manager.
Premier League legend Gary Neville said that Tel had made a good decision to join Spurs, with Postecoglou’s philosophy part of the reason.
“Tottenham are a huge draw, the stadium and the training ground – and the manager with his style of football. It’s a thrilling style that creates chances,” Sky Sports’ Neville said.
“I’m glad Tel is going there after flirting with a couple of other clubs. Tel will improve Spurs.
“They have a big couple of weeks coming up. Sometimes players like the idea of playing for a club but the important thing is to play football. That’s what Tottenham can provide him.
“They are an amazing football club with an amazing fanbase and they have some great games coming up that he can contribute in.”
Postecoglou being handed the keys to the Tel transfer, and personally speaking to the young gun in a bid to change his mind, hints at a manager who’s been backed by the club for its next phase — not one who is being sacked imminently.
Even so, managing under the rule of Levy comes with an ominous history that Postecoglou will hope his new signings can help him defy.
Sam Kerr’s criminal trial gets underway | 01:34
Levy has been in charge at Tottenham since ENIC’s takeover in 2001, winning one League Cup in 2008 during his tenure as the longest current serving chairman.
During his 24 years, he’s sacked and hired 16 managers.
Postecoglou is just the latest in a long line of mentors who have failed to deliver without the significant financial investment to compete with the Premier League’s heavyweights.
Yet he was still able to convince one of the world’s brightest talents to join him in North London, and the chairman was not.
But should Spurs’ struggles continue to close out the 2024/25 season, it will be Postecoglou who is thrown out the door — not Levy, who refuses to listen to fan’s criticisms.
Levy watched on as Postecoglou struggled to field a starting eleven in recent weeks, with injuries tallying almost every game.
Fans have protested openly against the club’s ownership in recent weeks, even staging a mass event at the Tottenham club shop to try and enact change.
However, Levy has previously said that he doesn’t listen to criticism from the club’s faithful, with former Premier League striker Chris Sutton questioning the chairman.
“Daniel Levy is such a powerful figure – he wants to win trophies, but that’s not his primary objective, he wants to make money and that’s why Tottenham fans are angry,” he said on BBC.
“But, does Daniel Levy listen to anybody? He’s a stubborn so and so, we can talk as much as we like about it but he’s such a powerful figure – what is going to change?
“You can have your banners up, you can sing Levy out – but is he really going to listen to that?”
While Levy has been the focal point of fans’ woes, former Manchester United scout Mick Brown explained prior to deadline day that Postecoglou’s position was shaping as a familiar story.
“It’s mapping out at Tottenham as it often has done over the years,” he said to Football Insider.
Mathys Tel (R) will join Spurs.Source: Getty Images
“The manager of the time needs players, it gets to a point where the chairman is accused of keeping his hands in his pockets, he starts getting pressure from the fans, and he sacks the manager.
“He’s sacked 15 managers during his time there. It’s ‘watch this space’ at Tottenham at the moment.
“They’ve been down this road before.
“Chairmen, particularly Daniel Levy, don’t like pressure from the fans so they react and make a decision. That’s not my opinion, it’s a fact, it’s history.”
However, Tottenham’s pair of signings could be seen as a renewed show of faith in Postecoglou.
Last month, the club was in freefall with losses in the league piling up each week, while Levy’s pursestrings remained largely tightened.
But a pressure-relieving 0-2 away win over Brentford on the weekend, followed by two key coups late in the transfer window have offered new hope for Postecoglou’s future at the club.
Alongside Tel, Lens centre back Kevin Danso has also joined the club in a timely boost for the Australian’s injury-ravaged side.
Even so it wasn’t all good news in the market for Postecoglou, he was desperate to sign a second centre back, with Chelsea’s Axel Disasi snubbing Spurs in favour of Aston Villa.
AC Milan’s Fikayo Tomori also rejected the club’s approach, while Crystal Palace declined a $140m AUD bid for England representative Marc Guehi.
The Guehi move in particular highlighted the difference between Spurs and other heavyweights, refusing to up their offer to secure a player who has been a proven Premier League performer.
Spurs still sit in 14th in the Premier League, losing four-straight games before breaking that streak against Brentford.
It is therefore likely that results in a trio of cup competitions, the Europe League, Carabao Cup and the FA Cup, will be pivotal in Postecoglou surviving the 2024/25 season.
Kerr’s alleged racial harassment shown | 00:50
Spurs have a 1-0 lead after the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi finals, with the second clash with Liverpool scheduled for Friday morning.
The recent return of Micky van de Ven proves crucial for Spurs, but the likes of Christian Romero, Dominic Solanke, James Maddison and Guglielmo Vicario, among others, still sidelined.
Postecoglou will be desperate for Tel and Danso to hit the ground running in the hopes of helping Tottenham delve deeper into their cup campaigns.
The equation is simple for Postecoglou — win silverware and he will likely keep his job.
But the fact that he is still here to hold onto that hope represents an uptick in fortunes for a manager who, just last month, was struggling to field an XI in what some where billing as a relegation fight.
Could Collingwood consider moving its superstar to a familiar role?
Plus Carlton’s ongoing ruck dilemma has been labelled its “biggest issue” amid a wide open premiership race.
Every club’s burning question ahead of Round 19, as well as the commentators for every Fox Footy game, in our ultimate weekly preview: The Blowtorch!
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AFL umpires not training properly? | 02:33
ESSENDON v ADELAIDE CROWS
Friday July 19, 7.40pm at Marvel Stadium
How to watch on Fox Footy: From 6.30pm on Channel 504 with Garry Lyon, Jonthan Brown, Jordan Lewis, Nathan Buckley, Brad Johnson (Boundary) & Jon Ralph followed by Fox Footy Live
Bombers’ burning question: Can they handle high-pressure games?
While Essendon is currently sixth on the ladder and has been in the top four for key stages this year, it’s still failed challenges against some of the best sides. And overall, the Bombers have played in the third-lowest pressure rating games on average this year including going 3-1-4 in high pressure games and 7-2 in low pressure games (over/under 180). It includes Essendon losing groundball in recent losses to Carlton (-19), Geelong (-17) and Melbourne (-15) to draw questions from Saints great Leigh Montagna on whether Brad Scott’s side is capable of rising when the pressure is at its hottest. “They’ve failed the test now three out of the last four times. Are they tough enough against contest and finals-like teams? You’ve got to start to question if they’re hard enough or desperate enough,” he said on Fox Footy’s The First Crack.
Crows’ burning question: Just how good can Riley Thilthorpe be?
Adelaide young gun Riley Thilthorpe made his long-awaited AFL return last week against St Kilda and you only had to watch his small stint as the substitute to get excited about the talent he could be at AFL level. Taken at pick two in the 2021 National Draft, the 201cm key forward looked dangerous in tough conditions against the Saints, booting two goals and clunking a couple of marks. Thilthorpe was all the hype out of West Lakes in the pre-season, but a knee injury in the dying stages of a pre-season match meant the 22-year-old spent the first half of the season on the sidelines. Put rather than dwell on the injury, Thilthorpe went to work in the gym and how possesses a physique that will see key defenders tremble for years to come. He could well and truly light up Marvel Stadium on Friday night and bring the Bombers back down to earth.
‘Tackle is going the way of the bump’ | 00:37
GWS GIANTS v GOLD COAST SUNS
Saturday July 20, 1.45pm at ENGIE Stadium
How to watch on Fox Footy: From 1.30pm on Channel 504 with Leigh Montagna, Nick Dal Santo, Gerard Healy, Alastair Lynch & David Zita
Giants’ burning question: Are they back?
After appearing at risk of missing the finals a few weeks ago, the Giants have won two games in a row to re-enter premiership calculations. Perhaps more promising than anything is that Toby Greene, both the Giants’ spiritual and literal leader, returned to his best form against Richmond with four goals. And when the GWS skipper is at his best, the Giants are a different side. The only real concern is Stephen Coniglio being bothered by a shoulder issue that’ll cause him to miss this weekend. But Adam Kingley’s side is very much trending in the right direction, with its powerful offensive game (averaging 112 points over the last two games) back on show. “They weren’t brilliant and I think there will be a lot they’ll want to fix up, particularly defensively and around the contest. But offensively — when they got their flow going and tsunami from half back going inside 50 — it was the Giants we know,” Saints legend Leigh Montagna said on Fox Footy’s The First Crack. Asked if they can continue rising, Montagna said: “I do, they’ve still got to work on some things defensively. Their system is very identifiable, it’s hard to stop but they can get scored against the other way.”
Suns’ burning question: Can star, like the team, replicate epic home form?
The Suns’ contrasting form in home games (9-0) and on the road (0-8) this season has been widely discussed — and there’s perhaps not a player who’s embodied that variance more than Noah Anderson. The star midfielder is the highest rated player in the competition based on home games this season, averaging 32.7 disposals, 13.7 contested, 7.8 clearances, 4.3 tackles and 8.6 tackles. However Anderson’s numbers “dramatically decline” in away games, as put by Saints great Leigh Montagna on Fox Footy’s The First Crack, where he just hasn’t produces at the same level. So if the Suns are to finally get that first win on the board in enemy territory under Damien Hardwick they so desperately need to prove themselves and make a genuine run at finals, Anderson will need to start replicating his brilliant home heroics on the road.
Greene’s perfect troll job in question | 02:13
ST KILDA v WEST COAST EAGLES
Saturday July 20, 1.45pm at Marvel Stadium
How to watch on Fox Footy: From 1.30pm on Channel 503 with Mark Howard, Nathan Buckley, Brad Johnson, Sarah Jones & David Zita
Saints’ burning question: Can any more young guns emerge?
After a seriously promising patch from Mattaes Phillipou following his return to the AFL side and move to the midfield, the former Pick 10 will now be sidelined for up to four weeks due to a hip injury in an untimely blow. While the timing couldn’t be worse for Phillipou given he was finally producing at the top level, it opens up an opportunity for another young player to come into the team and show their worth. Could Hugo Garcia or Angus Hastie get another opportunity or Olli Hotton come in for his debut? The Saints want as many as these types to come out as their building blocks for the future.
Eagles’ burning question: Can Schofield really throw his hat in the ring for coaching role after strong first showing?
It feels like so much talk surrounding the next full-time Eagles coach has been around other candidates. Dean Cox, Jaymie Graham, Josh Carr, Ash Hansen, even Fox Footy’s own Nathan Buckley. But have we underestimated the man who is set to take the reins in Adam Simpson’s absence for the next six weeks? The Eagles were really brave in their narrow loss to Brisbane in Schofield’s first game in charge and it was a performance that would surely have piqued the interest of Eagles powerbrokers. Schofield is perceived throughout the industry as someone who has a hard edge, but his ability to connect to his players is also something he’s developed while being an assistant at the Eagles and at Port Adelaide under Ken Hinkley. It’s never easy being a caretaker coach – you’re essentially trying to enhance your credentials while needing to blood youth – but the opportunity is there for Schofield. The next six weeks are a dress rehearsal for the former Eagle and should his side continue to show signs of growth, he’ll have to be considered for the mantle permanently.
Swans fine with Eagles interest in Cox | 00:47
HAWTHORN v COLLINGWOOD
Saturday July 20, 4.35 at the MCG
How to watch on Fox Footy: From 6.30pm on Channel 504 with Anthony Hudson, Jason Dunstall, Garry Lyon, Cam Mooney & David Zita
Hawks’ burning question: Can Ginnivan kick a bag against his old side?
Imagine this. Hawthorn’s excitement machine Jack Ginnivan kicks five goals to essentially eliminate Collingwood from the finals race in 2024 and sink their hopes of back-to-back flags. It would be fitting, wouldn’t it? Ginnivan had an ‘almost game’ back in Gather Round when the Hawks fell to a five-point defeat at the Adelaide Oval, booting two majors from eleven disposals, but he showed glimpses of tearing that game apart. “He’s desperate to play against his old team and get out there, get under their skin in typical Jack fashion,” Hawthorn veteran Luke Breust said during the week. Plenty has been made of Collingwood’s off-season, where they traded Ginnivan and recruited former Docker Lachie Schultz to the club to play a similar role. Both livewires have similar numbers this year, with many experts questioning whether the weight of draft value they gave up for Schultz was worth it. But Collingwood’s trash has been Hawthorn’s treasure. If Ginnivan was to be the matchwinner for the Hawks come Saturday afternoon, that would absolutely break Collingwood hearts.
Magpies’ burning question: Should Daicos move back behind the ball?
While Nick Daicos is having an incredible third season in the midfield as one of the leading Brownlow contenders, reigning premier Collingwood has slid down to 12th and just doesn’t look the same team as last year. It includes the Pies lacking their usual slingshot from half back and ability to transition the ball from defence to forward 50. In fact, Craig McRae’s side has dropped from being ranked first in the competition last year to 16th in moving the ball from half back to inside 50 percentage, with Daicos’ time in defence falling from 41 per cent to 12 per cent amid his permanent midfield move. Granted, Collingwood’s midfield has also been down. However, former Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley pondered whether the club would be considering moving Daicos behind the ball again to help with its transition game. “It’s the opposite of what the Cats have done with Tom Stewart … can Daicos start as a half back and be facing the goals and the decision maker? That first kick breaks that first line of pressure, the decisions are easier after that first one. I just wonder if it’s in their thoughts,” Buckley said on Fox Footy’s On the Couch.
AFL wildcard weekend on the way? | 01:13
GEELONG v WESTERN BULLDOGS
Saturday July 20, 7.30pm at GMHBA Stadium
How to watch on Fox Footy: From 7.20pm on Channel 504 with Ben Dixon, Jack Riewoldt, Eddie Betts, Brad Johnson & David Zita
Cats’ burning question: Is Danger still the man?
When you watch Geelong captain Patrick Dangerfield in action right now, it’s hard to believe that he’s 34 years old. The Cats have a win-loss record of 7-1 when Dangerfield plays and a record of 4-5 when he doesn’t, highlighting the true importance the skipper has to their side. “I still think he is their barometer; I think how far the Cats go in September centres around how well Patrick Dangerfield plays,” St Kilda champion Leigh Montagna told Fox Footy’s First Crack. “It’s not so much about the quantity anymore of his numbers, it’s the impact of what he does,” he said. While Dangerfield’s numbers are down from seasons gone by, his work around the contest is still elite and he makes his Geelong teammates walk taller when he’s fit and firing. The Cats are fighting for a top four berth and Dangerfield still remains an integral piece of the puzzle for Chris Scott and his coaching staff. The question is, can Dangerfield keep it up as the season goes on and spearhead his side into yet another finals campaign?
Bulldogs’ burning question: Is Jamarra the ‘difference’?
Jamarra Ugle-Hagan last week responded to being slightly down on form, booting four goals from a career-best 20 disposals to lead the Dogs to a huge win over the Blues. It might well have been the former No. 1 draft pick’s best ever AFL outing in a real statement performance where he put the Dogs on his back. And it importantly came without Aaron Naughton by his side up forward as Ugle-Hagan showed he can be the man. Kangaroos legend David King on Fox Footy’s The First Crack said it “was a different beast to what we’d seen the last month or so,” questioning if the Dogs copped a “little clip” from Luke Beveridge after the team’s heavy loss to Port Adelaide. Saints great Leigh Montagna: “It’s the mental aspect, I reckon he had the kick up the backside. Now it’s up to him to stay at that consistent level … that’s the talent he’s got. He’s going too be the difference for the Dogs and how far they go.”
‘I think ruckmen are overrated’ | 03:27
PORT ADELAIDE v RICHMOND
Saturday July 20, 7.30pm at Adelaide Oval
How to watch on Fox Footy: From 7.30pm on Channel 503 with Dwayne Russell, David King, Mark Ricciuto, Kath Loughnan & David Zita
Power’s’ burning question: Do they have a ‘problem’ with the Hornet?
Jason Horne-Francis has taken his game to new heights in his third AFL season — and second campaign at the Power. However Kangaroos legend David King believes Port has a “problem” with the former No. 1 pick with his discipline. While not doubting the 21-year old’s on-field talent, King thinks Horne-Francis still needs to mature to become the best version of himself — and to help the Power. “They’ve got a problem that they haven’t really wanted to talk about for a little while. Everyone defends Jason, he’s a wonderful player, he’s an extreme talent — but he’s gettable now. You can get under his skin, you can draw 50-metre penalties, and you can draw goals. “He spends a lot of time talking to the coach .. but at some point, he needs to take this situation by the horns himself and just, emotionally, remain in check,” King said on Fox Footy’s The First Crack.
Tigers’ burning question: Will we ever see Dusty in yellow and black again?
Dustin Martin has been sidelined since the Tigers’ Round 16 loss to Carlton as he deals with a nagging back injury that’s even stopped the champ from training – though that’s not the only reason. Seven reported on Thursday night Martin spent this week in New Zealand, missing the side’s Sunday loss and only returning to the country on Tuesday night. It meant he was never a chance of proving his fitness for this Saturday – which begs the question of what the club is letting the 33-year-old get away with, as they wait for his decision on 2025 and beyond. Adem Yze said the 33-year old could return against Collingwood next week, and perhaps we’ll see him back and yellow black. But perhaps not. The three-time Norm Smith medallist’s contract is due to expire at season’s end as rumours swirl around his future including a potential move to the Suns to reunite with Damien Hardwick or retire altogether. And the longer this back concern lingers and we don’t see Martin in action, the more you question if his legendary 301-game career at the Tigers has already had its last chapter written.
Clarkson on the rebuild doubters | 05:30
BRISBANE LIONS v SYDNEY SWANS
Sunday July 21, 1.10pm at the Gabba
How to watch on Fox Footy: From 1pm on Channel 504 with Anthony Hudson, Jonathan Brown, Gerard Healy, Alastair Lynch & Jon Ralph
Lions’ burning question: Could Neale win a record-equalling third Brownlow?
There’s only a dozen people in the history of the game who have won multiple Brownlow Medal’s, and Lachie Neale is one of them. Despite this, the star midfielders still manages to sneak under the radar, with the 31-year-old now in such good in good n he could well make a late run for medal number three. The third-highest rated player in the league since Round 10, Neale has reignited this Lions outfit after a slow start to the year; with Josh Dunkley and Hugh McCluggage working very well in tandem with the South Australian. It’ll be a pleasure to watch the trio, led by Neale, clash with Sydney’s own engine room on Sunday in almost certainly match of the round. “His quality stands out … I still think he reflect on him the way we should (despite two Brownlow’s),” David King said on Fox Footy’s First Crack. Leigh Montagna added. “I think we still probably underrate what he has done, because he doesn’t have the attributes and look like Dusty and Bontempelli; his actual output stacks up with any of them … he’ll get remembered as one of the all-time greats of the modern era.”
Swans’ burning question: Will this truly their biggest test to date?
The clear number one team in the competition in 2024, the Swans endured their first real bump in the road with back-to-back losses in across Round 16 and 17. They lost to a rising Fremantle and their anomaly loss to the Saints, but outside of that they haven’t been tested for four quarters in over last three months. With the inclusion of Heeney into their midfield and Cunningham in defence, the Swans are crazily only getting better – and besides McInerney, are now playing their best 23. That being said, Brisbane are arguably the in-form team of the competition in the last six weeks, and look to be peaking at the right time. In what should be their biggest test to date, the Swans can’t afford a slow start to the Lions – especially on their home turf.
“What has happened to our great game!” | 03:35
FREMANTLE DOCKERS v MELBOURNE
Sunday July 21, 3.20pm at Optus Stadium
How to watch on Fox Footy: From 3pm on Channel 503 with Kelli Underwood, David King, Nick Dal Santo & Jon Ralp
Dockers’ burning question: Can they ‘rip the heart’ out of Dees again?
Last time these teams met in Round 12, the Dockers put Melbourne to the sword in Alice Springs in a 92-point smashing. It was arguably Justin Longmuir’s side’s best performance this season given it showed it can really put damage on the scoreboard after at times being criticised for being too defensive minded. So can they rediscover such a killer instinct again against a more in-form Demons outfit back at their Optus Stadium fortress? “They’re a frustration for me because I love when they play a little bit of express. Often they don’t go and rip the heart out of the opposition and say: ‘We’re going to play win this game’. With five and a half minutes left against Hawthorn they still wanted to play in a controlled manner and it irks me a little bit … you’ve got to take a risk and adjust with what the scoreboard is telling you when you need to score,” Kangaroos legend David King said on Fox Footy’s The First Crack.
Demons’ burning question: How important is Rivers to their finals hopes?
He’s not quite Christian Petracca yet, but my word has Trent Rivers filled a void for Melbourne these last weeks. With Petracca out for the season and Oliver dreadfully out of form, coach Simon Goodwin desperately needed someone else to deliver in the engine room with Jack Viney – and Rivers looks to be that man. Registering 29 disposals in each of his last two matches, the 22-year-old has taken flight in the role with damaging kicking through the middle of the ground. This weekend against Fremantle will be another step above the Eagles and Bombers midfields he’s played in the last fortnight, but in front of his home crowd it would be fitting for the young gun to make it three out of three weeks as Melbourne’s best on ground and get his side one step closer to finals.
Scott struggles with AFL tackle bans | 02:26
CARLTON v NORTH MELBOURNE
Sunday July 21, 4.40pm at Marvel Stadium
How to watch on Fox Footy: From 4pm on Channel 504 with Dwayne Russell, Jack Riewoldt, Jordan Lewis, Sarah Jones, Ruby Schleicher & Jon Ralph followed by Bounce and First Crack
Blues’ burning question: Where to now with their ruck situation?
Having lost their last two games, the Blues will need to recapture their form this weekend against North – but is this the last chance they can rectify their ruck dilemma? Tossing and turning between young gun Tom De Koning and experienced campaigner Marc Pittonet, the club is still yet to land on their preferred combat of attack. AFL greats David King and Leigh Montagna discussed the decision on First Crack last Sunday night.
“I think it’s the biggest issue at Carlton that they need to address at correct,” King said.
“He (Pittonet) is solely responsible for (their) first possession profile … he doesn’t bring the score, (but) he brings the ability for you to start with the ball.”
“It’s hard to argue with what he does as a ruckman,” Montagna added.
While it’s widely accepted that De Koning provides more run and impact around the ground in general play, the duo highlighted Pittonet’s very good tap work last week against the Bulldogs, where his midfielders were ultimately unable to convert from stoppage. With six weeks to go until an impending finals appearance, do the Blues pick youth and speed, or experience and deft touch?
Kangaroos’ burning question: Can they show they’ve learned from last week?
To come up against the first and second-ranked sides in the competition as North Melbourne in back-to-back weeks is unlucky in some ways, but it’s also a great way to show what they’ve learned from last week. Sydney smashed them after quarter time at the SCG, but in the opening term they looked up for it. And the Blues are vulnerable too; as least as much as they ever have been this season, ranking fourth-worst in the competition for points against. On the back of two losses, Carlton won’t want to slip up against a Roos side that has looked a completely different team for most of the last month.
The insane numbers behind Kylian Mbappe’s inevitable move to a Spanish giant have been revealed as Manchester United’s skipper is attracting interest from two massive clubs.
Meanwhile, Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou could raid one of his former clubs for a teenage star.
Catch up on the biggest transfer whispers doing the rounds in the latest edition of the Rumour Mill!
The worst-kept secret in football looks set to be confirmed in the coming days as Kylian Mbappe will make his move to Real Madrid official.
Mbappe elected to leave Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent and although the French superstar would have had his pick of the clubs, he’s had his heart set on Madrid for several years.
One glance at the dizzying figures involved in the deal provides further evidence as to why Mbappe never really considered any other clubs.
According to Sky Sports, Mbappe will pen a five-year contract with the Spanish giants, who recently claimed its 15th Champions League title after beating Borussia Dortmund on Sunday.
Mbappe’s contract will net the World Cup winner a cool $AUD24 million salary, a significant downgrade on his $122 million-a-year deal with PSG.
However, Mbappe will earn plenty via his staggering $163 million signing-on bonus with Madrid.
Mbappe leaves PSG with six Ligue 1 titles as well as 256 goals in 308 games across all competitions but failed to lead the team to a Champions League title.
Mbappe is set to bank a staggering signing-on fee as part of his contract with Real Madrid. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)Source: AFP
UTD TALISMAN’S AGENT OPENS TALKS WITH RIVALS
The agent of Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has reportedly held talks with one of Europe’s biggest clubs amid building speculation he could leave Old Trafford.
The report also mentions Barcelona are keeping a watchful eye on the situation, although they are yet to formalise any interest.
Fernandes, who has made 232 appearances for United since joining from Sporting, is under contract with the Red Devils until the end of the 2025/26 season.
The talismanic midfielder has gone on record stating he would like to remain at the club, but insisted he wouldn’t engage in any transfer talk until after Euro 2024.
The loss of Fernandes would put a serious dent in United boss Erik ten Hag’s plans to return the club to the bright lights of the Champions League after the club finished eighth in the Premier League.
However, a stunning FA Cup triumph over Manchester City secured a spot in the Europa League for Ten Hag’s troops.
Bruno Fernandes’ agent has reportedly opened talks with Bayern Munich. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
ANGE SET TO RAID FORMER CLUB FOR TEENAGE PRODIGY
Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou could raid one of his former clubs as a teenage star continues to attract interest from some of Europe’s biggest names.
The Daily Record claims Postecoglou’s Tottenham have entered the race for Celtic young gun Daniel Kelly, with Manchester United, Bayer Leverkusen, Bologna and newly-promoted Como all interested in securing the teen’s services.
Postecoglou worked with Kelly in his two years as Hoops boss, although the 18-year-old did not make a first team appearance in that stint.
However, Kelly has impressed in his six appearances for Celtic under Brendan Rodgers, even scoring in a 7-1 rout over Dundee in February.
The report claims only Leverkusen have a formal interest in Kelly, meaning Postecoglou may have to act fast if he does want to bring the teenager to north London.
Ange Postecoglou has been linked with a move for a Celtic teenager. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
ELSEWHERE AROUND THE GROUNDS …
Fulham have reportedly made a 23-year-old England international their main transfer priority this summer, but he will not come cheap.
According to The Telegraph, Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe is the name at the top of Fulham manager Marco Silva’s wishlist.
For the Gunners, a sale of the midfielder will represent pure profit in regards to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), so they may be tempted to boost their own transfer kitty.
Although Smith Rowe has three England caps to his name, he struggled to break into Arsenal’s starting line-up and made just 13 league appearances in the 23/24 season.
Incoming Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is set to waste little time in being active in the transfer market as he plots a move for Manchester City young gun James McAtee.
The Sun claims Maresca was desperate to secure McAtee had he remained as Leicester City boss, but even with a significantly larger budget, the Italian is still keen on the 21-year-old.
McAtee endured a tough season with Sheffield United as the Blades finished last in the Premier League, but still showed enough glimpses of why he’s so highly rated by those at City.
The Premier League campaign is over for another year – and while Ange Postecoglou and Mile Jedinak were flying the Australian flag as coaches for Tottenham Hotspur, there were no Aussie men on the field.
It’s a different story, of course, in the women’s top flight in England – the Women’s Super League – with 14 Australians playing there this campaign.
But back to the men. In Europe’s top five leagues (England, Germany, Italy, Spain, and France), just one Socceroo, Denis Genreau, appeared this season for France’s top-flight Toulouse.
Cristian Volpato, the Sydney-born starlet who has not yet decided whether to represent Australia or Italy at the senior international level, also featured in Italy’s top tier with Sassuolo.
It’s a sad decline from the days of Aussies like Aaron Mooy and Maty Ryan regularly featuring in the Premier League. But the good news is that next season things could be different.
A flurry of Socceroos have earned promotion to the big five leagues, leading Socceroos coach Graham Arnold to say yesterday: “For the national team in the future, it should be great for us.”
And there’s a host of up-and-coming youngsters at top-flight teams who will be hoping to crack the senior sides.
Remarkably, when the new season begins we could see as many as 20 Aussies on the books at clubs in the five biggest leagues in world football.
Genreau in action against Roma in a friendly last year.Source: AFP
PREMIER LEAGUE
Three Australians secured promotion from the Championship this season: Cameron Burgess and Massimo Luongo with Ipswich Town, and Harry Souttar with Leicester City – the latter team winning the second tier.
Burgess, 28, was an ever-present for the Tractor Boys this season, playing 40 games and becoming a brick wall in defence for a team that lost just six of 46 league matches. He burst into the Socceroos squad only in September 2023, but has already become arguably the nation’s first-choice centre-back. His three-year contract at Ipswich is now up, but the club has an option to extend that for one more year. At a minimum, that looks like a certainty at this point – but a new long-term deal is also well and truly on the cards after a stellar season.
Cameron Burgess (C) celebrates a goal in what has been a spectacular promotion season.Source: Getty Images
Luongo, now 31, played 43 of the team’s 46 league games, starting the vast majority of those in the midfield. After earning a recall to the Socceroos last October and November after a four-year-exile, he retired from international football in December last year ahead of January’s Asian Cup. After 45 caps and six goals for the green and gold over a long career, Luongo wanted to focus on ensuring Ipswich earned promotion to the Premier League – and fair enough too.
It’s been a remarkable career renaissance for the Aussie, who looked to be sliding away from the top echelons of global football just 18 months ago. He joined Ipswich in January 2023 on a six-month deal, then helped them get promoted to the Championship. That earned him another one-year deal, and by this January, he signed yet another contract with Ipswich. That runs for next season with the option to extend another year.
Signing three contracts with the club in just over 12 months shows how impressive his form revival has been, and he’s earned the ultimate prize of finally playing in the top flight – 12 years after he came so close to debuting in the Premier League when he was twice an unused substitute for Tottenham.
The big question now is whether Luongo will reverse his international retirement and rejoin the Socceroos on the road to the 2026 World Cup. It’s unlikely. But based on form he would undoubtedly be welcomed back into the green and gold fold by coach Graham Arnold.
Luongo has been stellar this season.Source: Getty Images
The situation with Harry Souttar is far less rosy. The towering centre-back has been in virtual exile at Leicester this season as they topped the Championship, playing just three league games all season (one start).
Not that it has had an impact on his Socceroos’ minutes – he’s played every minute of the eight games since September and has been picked for Australia’s matches against Bangladesh and Palestine next week.
It’s the perfect opportunity for Souttar to put himself in the shop window.
Socceroos coach Graham Arnold said: “Harry is obviously one that I will sit down with when he gets here and see what’s happening because it’s important.
“Not just for us, but also for Harry Souttar that he sorts out his club career and gets back playing because it’s gone on a bit too long now.”
Souttar’s contract at the Foxes doesn’t expire until mid-2028, but he’ll be desperate to seal a transfer that can offer him regular minutes, barring the unlikely scenario that Leicester sell either of their starting centre-backs Jannik Vestegaard or Wout Faes.
Will he move to a Premier League rival?
He’s just 25 years old and still has his best years ahead of him, but after a year on the sidelines it’s unlikely that a top-flight club will immediately make him a starting centre-half, meaning he could well end up on the bench. It’s a high-risk, high-reward transfer window ahead.
A move to Scotland to join brother John at Rangers was mooted in January but didn’t eventuate – but in order to get immediate playing time, heading to Scotland or back to the Championship seems a safer bet.
Despite his lack of club minutes, Souttar continues to impress for the Socceroos.Source: Getty Images
While those three Socceroos stars headline the list of Australians likely to play in the Premier League next season, there’s a host of up-and-comers on the books of big clubs.
The most likely to earn his chance this season is Joe Gauci at Aston Villa. 23-year-old Gauci signed for the Premier League’s fourth-place finishers in February from Adelaide United on a deal initially worth nearly $2.5m.
He’s behind the 2022 World Cup winning goalkeeper, Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez, who also won the Golden Glove at that tournament as well as the being named The Best FIFA Goalkeeper in 2022 and winning the Yashin Trophy in 2023.
But finishing fourth in the Premier League means Villa will now play in the Champions League as well as two domestic cups (the FA Cup and League Cup).
Their hectic schedule means Gauci will fight 34-year-old Robin Olsen for back-up duties – and with injuries always a possibility, the rising Australian talent could even get a chance in the Premier League. Olsen, for example, played five league games this season.
And Gauci has the chance to put his name up in lights in a fortnight when Socceroos captain Maty Ryan is rested for the matches against Bangladesh and Palestine – meaning Gauci is all-but-certain to start both fixtures.
Joe Gauci will be hoping for minutes at Aston Villa this season.Source: Getty Images
21-year-old Cameron Peupion is another player on the fringes of a Premier League side. He’s at Brighton and Hove Albion, and he’s already played once in the league – back in May 2023.
This season, he went on loan to League One side Cheltenham Town but struggled for minutes and was recalled in January, where he started for Brighton in both the League Cup and FA Cup. He was also on the bench (but unused) for six Premier League matches. Another loan move is possible, but with a new coach incoming, he’ll have the chance to impress in pre-season and push his case to stay with the first team.
Cameron Peupion (R) of Brighton & Hove Albion in the FA Cup against Wolves.Source: Getty Images
Brighton also have a talented 19-year-old Australian goalkeeper in Steven Hall on their books, who joined from Adelaide United in January and has so far played two games in the Premier League 2 (underage/reserves competition). He’s on a deal until 2027 – so there’s plenty of time for him to rise up the ranks.
Another youngster to watch out for is Fulham’s Tyrese Francois. The 23-year-old has represented them twice in the league before, coming off the bench in the last game of the 2020-21 season and again in the second game of the 22/23 season.
This year, he made their PL bench five times in the first half of the season and picked up substitute appearances in the FA and League Cups before being sent on loan in January to Vejle BK in Denmark’s top tier.
He’s made 15 appearances there including starting their last 12 games. Now he’ll head back to Fulham, who finished 13th in the league this season. The young Aussie will be hoping to carry his strong form back from Denmark and into next season’s Premier League … and maybe even make that long-awaited first start.
It was all going so well for young box-to-box midfielder Alex Robertson this season. Sent on loan to Portsmouth from Premier League champions Manchester City, he became one of the first names on the team sheet at and drew huge praise as he guided them to the top of the table by the New Year. There were rumours that clubs like Everton were interested in a permanent transfer.
Then he tore a thigh muscle and his season was over – though his loan club went on to win League One and be promoted to the Championship for next season.
The 21-year-old already has two caps for the Socceroos and is viewed as an immense talent, but breaking into City’s stacked squad is a tall order. His serious injury was a major setback, but a transfer isn’t out of the question, nor is another loan move.
Robertson impressed for the Socceroos in 2023 before an injury setback.Source: AFP
Speaking of loan moves, that’s the expectation when it comes to Garang Kuol for the upcoming season. The teen talent has had a torrid time of things since signing for Newcastle from the Central Coast Mariners.
This season, he was sent on loan to Dutch side Volendam – renowned for playing youngsters. But then they sacked their chief and their coach in December, and Kuol has played just 32 minutes in 2024. Ouch.
He debuted for Newcastle last Wednesday in a friendly against Tottenham at the MCG, coming on to rousing reception from the Aussie fans before scoring a penalty in the shootout. He then earned his first start against the A-League All Stars, but failed to impress.
Manager Eddie Howe said after the first game that the young forward will be sent on loan again next year.
“It’s always very difficult to say for certain what’s gonna happen with a player at this stage because there’s a long way to go before the season starts,” Howe said.
“But possibly another loan spell for him I think will be important.
“He’s had a couple of loan spells now but I think he needs the next one to be a successful one.
“I think he needs the next one to be successful and we need him to play more game time and hopefully that’ll happen.”
Simply put, he needs minutes – and plenty of them – to continue his development and get him in the frame for Premier League action. That’s a fair way away at this point, but a strong pre-season could deliver a surprise.
Garang Kuol of Newcastle United FC in action during the exhibition match against the A-League All Stars.Source: Getty Images
GERMANY
The German Bundesliga is also certain to see Australians in action next season. Socceroos midfield veteran Jackson Irvine captained FC St Pauli to the top of the second tier and promotion to the top flight in recent weeks. He plays alongside Connor Metcalfe, who has become one of the first names on the team sheets for the Socceroos in the last 18 months. 31-year-old Irvine had six goals and nine assists in 27 league games this season – an impressive output from a midfielder, while 24-year-old Metcalfe had three goals and five assists in 30 appearances, mostly on the wings. The pair have been crucial to both their team and Australia’s hopes, so expect plenty of minutes for the dynamic duo next season.
Irvine and his teammates were mobbed by pitch invaders after winning Bundesliga 2.Source: Getty Images
Nestory Irankunda, viewed as one of the most gifted Australian youngsters in decades, sealed a record-breaking transfer to European giants Bayern Munich in November last season – where he’ll head after he impressed for the A-League All Stars last week against Newcastle. The 18-year-old attacker finished his time at Adelaide United with eight goals and six assists in 25 appearances this season, taking his overall tally in the A-League to 16 goals and eight assists in 60 games. Still a raw talent who has struggled at times with his emotions and the immense weight of expectation on his shoulders, Irankunda has just been called up to the Socceroos and is expected to debut against Bangladesh or Palestine.
He is likely to start out in Bayern’s reserve team or go out on loan. But Bayern will have a new coach next season – relegated Premier League side Burnley’s Vincent Kompany – and there’s precedent for an A-League star to break into the first team surprisingly quickly.
New Socceroo accidentally revealed | 00:57
That was the case with New Zealand’s Sarpreet Singh, who signed from Wellington Phoenix in July 2019. He played a couple of matches with the senior team in pre-season friendlies, then was sent to the reserve team (which plays in Germany’s third tier). After impressing there, he debuted in the Bundesliga in December 2019 – less than six months after signing for the club. So the opportunity for a rapid rise to the first team is there for Irankunda … if he can take it.
Irankunda was excellent against Newcastle, with an assist and a key role in another goal in the 8-0 win.Source: Getty Images
But Irankunda won’t be the only Aussie at Bayern Munich next season. Goalkeeper Anthony Pavlesic is only 18 and has a long way to go to reach the elite, but a two-and-a-half week trial earned him a transfer to Bayern last June. He’s been playing for their under-19 team – coincidentally 19 times this season. And he also made an appearance for the reserve team in October. The teen gloveman is an immense talent, but barring a host of injuries he’s unlikely to break into the senior side for another season or more.
One Aussie most fans may not have heard of yet is Rawley St John, a Sydney FC academy product who earned a massive move to VfB Stuttgart last July. Stuttgart this season finished a stunning second in the Bundesliga, ahead of Bayern Munich but behind a rampaging Bayer Leverkusen. St John has been playing for the under-19 team, but the gifted midfielder just turned 19 this week and will be hoping to rise up the ranks this season, the final one on his contract at the German club.
Versatile wide man Jacob Italiano is also at a top flight club, playing with Borussia Mönchengladbach. The 22-year-old joined there from Perth in 2019 and has since gone on to play 104 games for their reserves team, but is out of contract. A move could be on the cards.
Jacob Italiano playing for the Olyroos at the U23 Asian Cup in April.Source: Getty Images
FRANCE
As previously mentioned, Denis Genreau was the only Socceroo to feature in a top-five league this season. He played plenty of minutes last year to help Toulouse get promoted to France’s Ligue 1, and started this season strongly before injuries effectively ruined his season – seeing him not play in the league from November until the final game of the season last week. Having turned 25 this week, the five-cap Socceroo still has a year to go on his contract and will be hoping that a full pre-season gets him back into regular first-team action.
This year, Australian fans will be hoping for more Socceroos to join him in playing in Ligue 1.
Mohamed Toure, who plays for Reims, spent the season on loan at second tier Paris FC in an attempt to get match minutes. He scored in just his second game for his loan club, but like Genreau was then cut down by injury. He finished the season with just 175 minutes across 11 matches, and that solitary goal. He played three Ligue 1 games for Reims in his first year at France, but another loan move for the young striker who just turned 20 seems probable.
He has made just one appearance for the Socceroos so far, last October, but hopes are high that he can rediscover his scoring form and be a long-term number nine in the green and gold.
His older brother Al Hassan also plays in Ligue 2, while younger brother Musa has been linked to a transfer to Ligue 1 by FTBL in recent weeks – though at 18 is also likely to spend time in the reserves or on loan before breaking into the first team.
Toure showed flashes of his potential with the Olyroos at the U-23 Asian Cup.Source: Getty Images
ITALY
Rising Socceroos centre-back Alessandro Circati, just 20, played a key role in earning Parma promotion to Serie A this season.
The Italian-born star, who has one Socceroos cap but is included in the upcoming squad, joined Parma in 2021 on a long-term contract until 2027. But he quickly earned a spot in the senior side and has already played 55 games for the team, including 32 this season as they returned to the top tier for the first time since being from Serie A in 2020/21. He’s expected to remain a key figure in the first team when the new season commences – though there were rumours of a Premier League transfer in January.
“We played him against New Zealand and his maturity for a young boy was outstanding. We gave him that debut cap next to Harry Souttar and he’s got quality,” Socceroos coach Graham Arnold said yesterday.
“He’s done very well for us but it’s the club form and the club qualities that are the great things about the future of the Socceroos. With him getting promoted into Serie A, he’s going to play against some of the best strikers in the world and we’re going to benefit from that in the long run.”
He added: “We have Alessandro playing in Serie A next season which is incredible for the nation. And that was one of the most important things. We get rewarded with those types of things as a nation when the players are doing well at their clubs and playing at the highest level.”
Alessandro Circati before making his Socceroos debut last October.Source: Getty Images
Another Italian Australian in Serie A is Cristian Volpato, who debuted for heavyweights Roma back in December 2021 under legendary manager Jose Mourinho. Mentored by all-time great Francesco Totti, the so-called ‘King of Rome’, Sydney-born Volpato has been the subject of a long and dramatic tug of war between Italy and Australia over his international allegiances, which included Volpato turning down representing Australia at the 2022 World Cup. This international window, he is representing Italy’s Under-20s instead of the Socceroos.
“I’ve been in touch with a Christian and his mother, and the kid has chosen to play for Italy in this camp in under 20s in a tournament,” Arnold said on Wednesday.
“I’m always in contact and I’m encouraging him to play for Australia, but at the same time the kid has to want to, and his mum and his dad have to want that as well.”
Socceroos fans are still hoping the 20-year-old attacking midfielder opts for the green and gold.
He left Roma, where he played 14 games for the senior side, to join Serie A rivals Sassuolo in June last year for €7.5 million. He played 25 games in all competitions this season, largely off the bench, with one goal and one assist.
Having come through at Roma under legendary coach Jose Mourinho before moving to Sassuolo, hopes are high that Volpato will play for Australia.Source: Getty Images
Sassuolo finished second-last and will be relegated to Serie B next season – meaning Volpato will need a transfer if he wants to continue playing in the top flight.
It’s likely that Volpato will be allowed to leave, given he fell out favour in the latter stages of the season when the club replaced their coach in a bid to avoid relegation, although he did start their final game of the season.
He has been linked to clubs in Serie A, as well as Spain’s top division, La Liga – which would also make him Australia’s only player in that competition.
Another young gun is 19-year-old Sebastian Esposito, who made a stunning move from Melbourne City to Serie A side Lecce in December despite never playing for City’s senior side. But the physically strong and aerially talented centre-back has plenty of potential – and he’s been on the bench for the senior team five times this season while playing 19 games for the under 19-team – including 18 straight where he played the full match. He was a standout for Australia’s under-20s team in a pair of matches last year, and looks one for the future.
AUSTRALIANS CURRENTLY AT TOP-FLIGHT CLUBS
Premier League: Cameron Burgess, Massimo Luongo, Harry Souttar, Cameron Peupion, Joe Gauci, Steven Hall, Tyrese Francois, Alex Robertson, Garang Kuol
Bundesliga: Jackson Irvine, Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda, Anthony Pavlesic, Rawley St John, Jacob Italiano
Ligue 1: Denis Genreau, Mohamed Toure
Serie A: Alessandro Circati, Cristian Volpato, Sebastian Esposito.
Australian young gun Garang Kuol is set for more time on loan in Europe next season despite making his run on debut for Newcastle at the MCG and scoring in the penalty shootout.
After spending his first 16 months with Newcastle on loan at Hearts in Scotland and Volendam in the Netherlands, 19-year-old Kuol, from Shepparton, fittingly made his first appearance for the Magpies in front of his home crowd.
Magpies coach Eddie Howe viewed it as an opportunity for the teenager to “showcase his talents” but also said Kuol needed more game time in his next stint away from Newcastle before being a chance to make an impact in the EPL.
“It’s always very difficult to say for certain what’s gonna happen with a player at this stage because there’s a long way to go before the season starts,” Howe said.
“But possibly another loan spell for him I think will be important.
“He’s had a couple of loan spells now but I think he needs the next one to be a successful one.
“I think he needs the next one to be successful and we need him to play more game time and hopefully that’ll happen.”
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Since moving to Europe, Kuol has only managed a total of 23 senior appearances for various teams and an average of 38 minutes per game.
That included just 32 minutes coming in the 2024 calendar season after Volendam sacked their coach following board instability in December, Kuol left to watch from the sidelines as the club tumbled to relegation.
It leaves him desperately in need of match minutes to continue his development, with the youngster currently well out of the Newcastle first-team picture.
Kuol came in to the game at the MCG in the 71st minute and went on to convert one of the spot kicks in the penalty shootout which Newcastle won 5-4 after the match ended 1-1 in regulation time.
“It was a case of just defending and seeing the game out in that way and I thought he contributed to that and took his penalty really well so I’m delighted for him,” Howe said.
Kuol is set for more of the game time Howe suggested when Newcastle turn out against the A-League All-Stars at Marvel Stadium on Friday with the toll of travel taken on a lot of the touring party who played on Wednesday night with some on their way home.
“Yeah, definitely he’ll be involved,” Howe said.
“A lot of our international players will now move back to their various countries where they’re going to prepare for the Euros and different competitions.
Adelaide United teen sensation Nestory Irankunda has confirmed he did want to play in Australia’s botched Olympic qualifying campaign but his snubbing hasn’t diminished his Socceroos ambitions.
The Olyroos failed to qualify for the Paris Olympics after not winning a match, or scoring a goal, at the under-23 Asian Cup.
Irankunda, who is set to move from Adelaide to German powerhouse Bayern Munich, was a controversial omission from the squad and the 18-year-old’s goalscoring power was sorely missed.
But as he was named among the first A-League All-Stars for a clash with English Premier League side Newcastle United, Irankunda said he “can’t do much” about his non-selection but still hoped to soon be part of the Socceroos’ plans.
Olyroos coach Tony Vidmar earlier this month said he wanted to look at the “bigger picture” and protect Irankunda’s wellbeing by leaving him out of the tournament.
The star winger said he had not been bothered by the conjecture that had swirled over his Olyroos selection snub and then a reported late call-up, which he turned down.
“I’ve been normal, relaxed, I haven’t really had a look at (the reports),” Irankunda said.
“I’ve been really focused on Adelaide … I did want to go originally, but I wasn’t selected, so I can’t do much about it.”
Irankunda said he watched Australia’s first two matches of the tournament – a nil-all draw with Jordan and a 0-1 defeat to Indonesia.
“Yeah, I watched the first game, and I think I watched the second one,” he said.
“I watched their game against Indonesia, that was just great, to watch a couple of my friends playing.”
He suggested the disappointment of missing the campaign had not affected his desire to represent Australia at the top level.
“Yeah of course, it’s a dream of mine to earn a cap for the Socceroos, to make history, get a few goals for them as well,” he said.
“I wouldn’t mind getting a call-up … we’ll see what happens.
“There’s still a few parts of my game that I need to fix, but that will happen over time, so (I’ll) stay patient.”
Irankunda will play last game for Adelaide in the final round of the A-League this weekend before the A-League All-Stars play Newcastle United in Melbourne on May 24.
It was only a handful of months ago Cam Peupion checked off the likes of Bristol Rovers’ Memorial Stadium and Exeter City’s St James Park from his career away days list.
Combined, the two grounds have a collective capacity of just over 20,500.
It’s why Peupion could be forgiven if he smiled like a child while enjoying a police escort through the rowdy streets of Rome en route to the 70,634 capacity Stadio Olimpico.
For a 21-year-old from Sydney’s northern beaches, these are the footballing adventures he could only dream about as a young boy.
But, as a player finding his feet at Brighton, Peupion has quickly learned this is now his new reality.
So too are those tricky loan spells in the unforgiving lower tiers of English football, an experience that is part-and-parcel for talented youngsters at Premier League clubs.
Rarely do European nights against the likes of Roma mesh with a difficult five months at League One strugglers Cheltenham Town, but that has been the story of Peupion’s season.
Crucially, he’s earned the respect of seasoned Premier League veterans at both stops and has had a Champions League winner take him under his wing.
HOW PL VETERAN HELPED AUSSIE SURVIVE LOAN DISASTER
As deadline day in the summer window neared, Peupion knew he needed game time at a senior level and the only way to get that was by going out on loan.
A host of clubs interested in the right winger’s services, but Brighton decided to send Peupion on loan to Cheltenham Town, a club that had returned to English football’s third tier for the first time in 12 years just two seasons ago.
Peupion himself was excited to join the Robins after a positive phone call with the manager Wade Elliott.
“The manager was calling me before and telling me he really wanted me in and that I was going to be a big part of his team, so I thought it was an exciting place to go and play football,” Peupion told foxsports.com.au.
By the time Peupion joined on August 29, Cheltenham had lost four of its first five games and pressure had rapidly mounted on Elliott.
Peupion made two substitute appearances for a total of 17 minutes in his first two league game after moving, both of which were defeats.
The losses to Barnsley and Exeter City also spelt the end for Elliott’s time in charge, a fate that Peupion understands is “part of football”.
In came Darrell Clarke, who had previously spent time with the likes of Walsall, Port Vale and Bristol Rovers.
Unfortunately for Peupion, Clarke’s arrival heralded major changes that cruelled his hopes for game time.
“He completely changed the formation, changed the way we wanted to play,” Peupion said.
“We went completely for long balls, try to play for corners and throw ins.
Cheltenham boss Darrell Clarke couldn’t find a way to fit Peupion into his team. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
“For a technical player like me, there just wasn’t a spot for me in the team, no matter what I did in training. It was just wing backs.”
Clarke even made the startling admission to Peupion that he’d rather use the Aussie “as an impact sub if we were losing, just because I didn’t fit into his team and his style of play”.
Even though Peupion knew he could do little to force his way into Clarke’s plans, he never downed tools in training and, if anything, earned the respect of Cheltenham’s veterans for his attitude.
One of which was Curtis Davies, a centre back with 173 Premier League and 314 Championship appearances to his name.
“He (Davies) was really good to me, he gave me a lot of advice,” Peupion said.
“He could see that I was struggling because I wasn’t playing and he’d been through similar things in his career.
“He pulled me to the side many times and just said, ‘Look, keep training really hard, your attitude is spot on, if you keep doing this you’ll get a shot here or it’s going to help you in the future.’”
With Peupion battling for game time and Brighton dealing with an injury crisis and the looming departures of Kaoru Mitoma and Simon Adingra to the Asian Cup and African Cup of Nations respectively, it made perfect sense for the Seagulls to cut his loan short on December 20.
It took less than a month for the Aussie youngster to make a major impression upon his return.
Cheltenham’s Curtis Davies was a fan of Peupion during his time with the League One outfit. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
THE MID-SEASON MOMENT THAT PROVED OLYROOS GUN IS UP FOR BRIGHTON FIGHT
During the Premier League’s winter break, several clubs will jet off to warmer climates for a mid-season training camp.
Like they did when the Premier League stopped for the 2022 World Cup, Brighton’s squad returned to Dubai, with Peupion among the travelling party.
According to a source close to Brighton’s first team, who spoke to this publication on the condition of anonymity, the players were granted a team bonding evening during the trip, with staff making training the following morning optional.
The next day, only three players attended training: James Milner, Evan Ferguson and Peupion.
It is this attitude from Peupion that caught the eye of Brighton’s seasoned professionals like Milner, Danny Welbeck, Adam Lallana and Lewis Dunk in training.
Lallana is the one who has grown closest to Peupion and has taken the Olyroos star under his wing.
“Ads has been a super big help for me,” Peupion said.
“He’s doing his coaching licenses at the moment, so he’s constantly in training pushing me as hard as he can.
“Then off the pitch, he’ll pull me aside and show me things on his laptop about where I could press better.”
Although Lallana spends time with Peupion talking about areas for improvement or sharing experiences from his professional career that began in 2006, he and Brighton’s other senior stars are as ruthless as it gets during training.
Lallana has taken Peupion under his wing. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
“When you’re in an environment like that, whether it comes from the manager or the players, if you’re a young player you’re going to get pushed,” Peupion said.
“But I think you realise quite early that it’s not personal, they just do it to try and make you a better player.
“For sure, there will be moments where they’ll push you and if you do something that’s not quite right, because you’re learning and you’re young, they’ll tell you.
“It’s competitive, it’s fiery, but I love being part of it. Off the pitch, they put their arm around you and they’re just trying to make you the best player you can be.”
As Peupion mentioned, Brighton gaffer De Zerbi is driving the sky-high standards as much as the Seagulls’ biggest names are.
The Italian took over after Graham Potter’s departure to Chelsea in 2022 and his stock has continued to rise after guiding the Seagulls to the Europa League last season.
So, what makes the enigmatic Italian such a gifted coach?
“I’ve never seen anyone so passionate about football and so passionate in general,” Peupion said.
He wants the best out of every single player that he works with and he pushes them to the highest level.
“It’s the finer details that you wouldn’t even think about and think highly of that makes you a better player.”
Peupion revealed those “finer details” are all to do with where players are positioned on the pitch and how they follow the pressure.
Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi is one of Europe’s most highly-rated managers. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
De Zerbi is also “relentless” with players only using two touches during passing drills.
“Everything has to be perfect, because when it comes to a game, if you can pass with precision and be perfect and be in the right position that he wants you to be in, then he believes that you can beat and play out from the back and score easily,” Peupion said.
“It’s that detail that comes into it that makes him brilliant to work under.”
Although the Brighton boss has proven himself to possess one of the shrewdest tactical minds in football, he makes his points in rather unique ways.
Peupion provided the example of when De Zerbi informed him he’d be coming off the bench away to Newcastle last season to make his Premier League debut.
“He pulled his pants down and just said, ‘I want you to play like you’ve got your pants down, no stresses in the world, no problems,’” Peupion laughed.
Such is De Zerbi’s faith in Peupion, he handed the Aussie his first start for the Seagulls in the club’s fifth round FA Cup clash against Wolves in late February.
Sadly, the moment the Italian informed Peupion wasn’t quite as vivid as when he found out he’d be making his Premier League debut.
“I remember he pulled me into his office the day before and sat me down and told me, ‘Do you think you’re ready to play with the first team and start a game?’” Peupion said.
“I told him, ‘Yeah, that’s the dream I want to do, that’s what I’ve been working towards.’
“So he said, ‘Yeah, you’re starting tomorrow.’
“He told me the day before, put his arm around me and said, ‘Whatever happens, it’s on me. Just go out there and do what you’d normally do. There’s no consequences.’
Peupion’s teammates were ecstatic for the youngster.
“All of the senior players were coming up to me saying, ‘Look, you’ve got nothing to lose, just play your normal game, you’ve been training really well, you deserve a start,’” Peupion said.
Peupion (right) made his first senior start for Brighton in the FA Cup against Wolves. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
Peupion only played the first half in a 1-0 defeat to Wolves, but he received plenty of positive feedback from his teammates and manager.
“The gaffer came up to me afterwards and said I played really well and was really impressed with me,” Peupion said.
“All of the boys were buzzing and said I did really well.
“It just means that when I’m in and around the group and training with them every day, you get a bit more respect and trust from the boys because if you get put out there, they can trust that you can deliver a performance and be a player that they can play with.”
De Zerbi’s trust in Peupion was also evident when he named the young Aussie on the bench in both legs of Brighton’s Round of 16 Europa League clash against Italian giants Roma.
Unfortunately for the Seagulls they were beaten 4-1 on aggregate, but the experience of being in the Italian capital made Peupion realise he’s finally doing what he’s “always dreamed of doing”.
“Even leading up to the game and getting the police escort through Rome towards the game, the whole city stops to shout abuse at you,” Peupion said.
“It’s an experience I hadn’t really had before, but it was something special.
“I was just smiling on the bus thinking this was one of the moments where I realised how far I’d come, from being a kid on the northern beaches dreaming about being a professional footballer to being on a bus for the Europa League and going through Rome and everyone’s stopping, staring and shouting at you.”
Roma got the better of Brighton in a hotly-contested Europa League Round of 16 clash. (Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
WHY BRUTAL BRIGHTON SNUB LEFT AUSSIE ‘GUTTED’
With eight games remaining in Brighton’s season, Peupion is hoping for more appearances off the bench or, in a dream scenario, a potential Premier League start.
He also might’ve enjoyed regular time had he been released by Brighton for Olyroos duty as they seek to qualify for the Paris Olympics, an event Peupion has been “dreaming about” for some time.
However, the club refused to let Peupion link up with the Olyroos for the AFC under-23 Asian Cup, a decision that left Peupion “gutted”.
“I was (desperate to join), to be fair,” Peupion revealed.
“I sat down with Brighton and they explained their reasons for not wanting me to go to the Asian Cup.
“I understand it’s a business at the end of the day. They see me as someone that could potentially help them in the last part of the Premier League season. So from that point of view, I do understand.
“I was gutted though, because it was something I was looking forward to, being part of the Asian Cup squad and trying to qualify for the Olympics.”
Should the Olyroos qualify for Paris and Peupion earn a call-up, who knows what it could lead to in the summer.
But, with the faith of De Zerbi and his senior Brighton teammates, it feels like Peupion’s European dream is truly starting to begin.
Liverpool’s hopes of luring Xabi Alonso back to Anfield were dashed on Friday with the Spaniard deciding to stay put at Bayer Leverkusen, who he has on course for a first ever Bundesliga title.
A Champions League winner during his time as a player at Liverpool, Alonso had been quickly installed as the favourite to succeed Jurgen Klopp after the German made his shock announcement in January that he will leave at the end of the season.
Sporting Lisbon coach Ruben Amorim is the new frontrunner with the bookmakers ahead of Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi and Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann.
Should Liverpool decide Amorim is the man, they’ll have to stump up $AUD24.8 million to trigger his release clause from Sporting.
Alonso’s decision to remain with Leverkusen, who are unbeaten in 38 games in all competitions this season, ends Liverpool’s hopes his arrival would soften the blow of Klopp’s impending departure.
The Reds’ fortunes on and off the field have been transformed during Klopp’s eight-and-a-half years in charge.
Liverpool won their first league title for 30 years in 2020, a year after lifting the Champions League.
Klopp is on course to leave in a blaze of glory.
Liverpool are behind Premier League leaders Arsenal only on goal difference with 10 games to go.
They also lifted the League Cup last month and could yet face Alonso’s Leverkusen in the Europa League final with both sides into the last eight.
Xabi Alonso revealed he will remain with Leverkusen next season. (Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)Source: AFP
Klopp believes he is passing the baton over at a perfect time with a squad packed full of young talent, aided by a core of world class veterans in Alisson Becker, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah.
“For the future it is important how good is the team, how good are the players, how good is the structure and how good is the organisation,” Klopp said earlier this month.
“That’s where my optimism comes from and that’s why I think it’s a rather good moment to be with LFC.”
However, following in the footsteps of a figure with such legendary status may have been one of the factors to discourage Alonso to make the jump.
Reports suggest his snub is set to open the door for Sporting’s Amorim. At just 39, the former Portugal international has already made a name for himself in his homeland.
Amorim’s first job came at Braga in 2019, where he lasted just over two months and 13 games before Sporting paid his 10 million euro ($11 million) release clause to take over at the Lisbon giants.
That faith in his ability was well-rewarded as he delivered a first league title in 19 years in his first season in charge in 2020/21.
Sporting only managed to finish second and fourth for the past two years but are on course for a league and cup double this season.
Sporting boss Ruben Amorim is regarded as one of the best young managers in Europe. (Photo by Fabrice COFFRINI / AFP)Source: AFP
De Zerbi has the perfect opportunity to make his case and spoil Klopp’s farewell when Brighton visit Anfield on Sunday.
The Italian’s first game in English football was a thrilling 3-3 draw away to Liverpool and Brighton then beat Klopp’s men twice in the Premier League and FA Cup at home least season.
But De Zerbi has struggled to maintain the same standards this season due to the demands of juggling the club’s first ever foray into Europe with the rigours of competing at the top end of the Premier League.
Nagelsmann was once considered the rising star of European coaching himself after impressing at Hoffenheim and RB Leipzig.
An ill-fated spell at Bayern Munich set him back, but he could redeem his reputation with Germany at a home European Championship.
After a difficult start to his time in charge of the national team, friendly victories over France and the Netherlands have given the German public hope of a summer to remember.
However, Nagelsmann’s involvement at the tournament could count against his case for the Anfield hot seat.
Liverpool’s first pre-season friendly against Arsenal comes just over two weeks after the final of the Euros.
Friday’s February 9 NBA trade deadline (all times AEDT) is fast approaching.
While a few big trade dominoes have already fallen, there’s still several big-name stars that could be on the move and teams looking to shake things up otherwise.
And so we’ve come up with one mock (but realistic) trade for all 30 teams ahead of Friday’s cut off to make roster changes for the second half of the season.
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To keep things simple, we haven’t included pick protections, swaps or gone in depth with which picks specifically are being moved. However all picks moved are legally owned by that team (in any future draft), and all trades work from a salary cap perspective.
Read on for foxsports.com.au’s mock trade for all 30 NBA teams (*all stats and records accurate at the time of writing on 6th of February).
ATLANTA HAWKS
Hawks receive: Jonathan Kuminga, Andrew Wiggins
Warriors receive: Clint Capela, AJ Griffin, second-round pick
The shake-up both teams need? The Hawks take a punt on Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins despite Kuminga’s career not yet living up to his Pick 7 draft spot and Wiggins falling away dramatically since Golden State’s 2022 title run. In fact, Wiggins’ four-year, $109 million contract is now basically a negative asset, so Atlanta is almost doing the Warriors a favour by taking him off their books and creating flexibility. Not only would it provide a different dynamic and much needed perimeter defence to to Atlanta’s current mix, but also the ability to commit to a youth movement at some stage — so the Hawks almost hedge their bets here. They also stay the course with Dejounte Murray, despite all signs pointing to a trade, and instead try and retool the roster around him and Trae Young. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, head coach Quin Snyder is pushing the Hawks front office to keep Murray, too. Despite previously being linked to trades, a Clint Capela move hasn’t gained any traction in the lead into this deadline, even though Atlanta has the veteran and Onyeka Okongwu locked in a time share at centre. But with Capela not helping the team win, holding back Okongwu from reaching his potential and being marginalised himself, it makes a lot of sense for Atlanta to trade Capela and adjust other parts of its roster (though his latest injury setback may complicate matters). The Warriors probably push to get a first-round pick instead of a second rounder, but this solves a lot of their problems — both short and long-term.
BOSTON CELTICS
Celtics receive: Alex Caruso, second-round pick
Bulls receive: Prayton Pritchard, Svi Mykhailiuk, two first-round picks
Despite the huge price, a move that would really tip over Boston as the clear championship favourite (if it isn’t already). Though some big man insurance for Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford would also be nice, Pritchard is the only roster spot the Celtics could still use an upgrade. Adding Caruso would add more size and double down on their already elite perimeter defence with Jrue Holiday and Derrick White and create a truly formidable backcourt in the playoffs. Even if he’s only a role player, Caruso wouldn’t come cheap as one of the most courted players in the league, so Boston would need to pay up to secure the defensive stud – even if two first rounders seems like an inordinate price. Plus, the Bulls, despite being potential deadline sellers, could just as easily hold Caruso unless the right deal comes along, so the onus is on other teams to make an offer they can’t refuse.
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BROOKLYN NETS
Nets receive: Dejounte Murray
Hawks receive: Spencer Dinwiddie, two first-round picks, second-round pick
With it becoming hard to trust Ben Simmons to stay on the floor and Spencer Dinwiddie being more of a scoring guard, the Nets are clearly crying out for a true playmaker to assist their arsenal of wings. Plus, it doesn’t appear Brooklyn is yet willing to go down the full rebuild route – a direction it could’ve taken after trading away Kevin Durant, James Harden and Kyrie Irving. With Murray, on a modest $18 million deal, the Nets get a proper gauge of how good this team can be in the second half of the season before they can always reset over the US summer, if needed. It’s no secret the Hawks have been shopping Murray, their most appealing trade asset, despite handing over three first rounders to acquire him from San Antonio two years ago. Murray’s pairing with Trae Young simply hasn’t worked, with Atlanta sitting a whole five games below .500, as the team now looks to flip him by the deadline. Considering this season is a write off for the Hawks, the obvious move would be to deal him for draft picks — with reports claiming Atlanta wants at least two first rounders back in any deal — and an appealing expiring contract like Dinwiddie’s $20 million deal to open up cap space for next off-season.
CHARLOTTE HORNETS
Hornets receive: Davis Bertans, first-round pick
Thunder receive: PJ Washington
Having already parted ways with Terry Rozier, the aim for the Hornets at the deadline should be selling their veterans – ideally Gordon Hayward and Kyle Lowry – for draft picks or long-term assets otherwise. However getting off Hayward ($31 million) and Lowry’s ($29 million) contracts and getting something in return would be tricky, making them more buyout candidates unless another team gets desperate. It makes Miles Bridges and Washington more likely trade candidates given they have real value. Here, Charlotte takes on Davis Bertans’ $17 million deal, which has reportedly been reworked next season to just over $5 million guaranteed, in exchange for PJ Washington and a first-round pick. Sure, Washington has proven to be a solid piece, but it might be the ideal time to capitalise on is his trade value given he doesn’t appear to be part of the Hornets’ future core. It continues Charlotte’s commitment to a proper rebuild and to its long-term future under new management, where everyone bar LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller and Mark Williams should be available for trade.
The number one goal for the Bulls at the deadline should’ve been parting ways with LaVine’s mega contract (in year two of a $215 million, five-season deal). But that’s now highly unlikely given teams wouldn’t be willing to give much up at all to acquire the two-time All-Star. In fact, given LaVine’s injury history, Chicago would probably now need to attach assets to a deal, so it’s probably wiser to wait on that front. And so trading DeRozan becomes the next priority given his impending free agency status and it being unlikely he’s a part of the Bulls’ long-term future. A trade with the Knicks, a reported suitor for DeRozan and in need of additional scoring/playmaking after trading RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley, could be ideal given New York’s wide collection of picks. Plus, Fournier’s $18 million deal is extra valuable as it has a team option for next season, so Chicago could use it as a trade in the off-season if it wanted. Grimes meanwhile comes cheap and fits into the age demographic with the likes of Pat Williams and Coby White.
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CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Cavaliers receive: DeAndre Hunter
Hawks receive: Caris LeVert, two second-round picks
As good an addition as Max Strus has been, the Cavs are reportedly still looking for a 3-and-D players, so moving one of their depth players, like LeVert (who’s expendable after the emergence of Sam Merrill and their most movable salary if they try something bold), for a true upgrade on the wing feels like the most profitable move. It might be tough to convince Atlanta to part ways with former Pick 4 Hunter for any package that doesn’t include a first-round pick, however Cleveland doesn’t have any first-rounders it can move, and LeVert offers value in his own right and would give Atlanta more flexibility to trade Dejounte Murray. There’s also been suggestions the Cavaliers could consider blowing up their star core given the team bizarrely got rolling when both Evan Mobley and Darius Garland were sidelined, however seems more likely they wait and see how the team functions when healthy again before trying anything drastic.
DALLAS MAVERICKS
Mavericks receive: Kyle Kuzma
Wizards receive: Grant Williams, Richaun Holmes, Jaden Hardy, first-round pick
Whether it’s now or in the off-season, the Mavericks clearly need to make a move — namely an upgrade at power forward — so Kyle Kuzma should be their main priority in terms of who’s available. Kuzma would provide size, rebounding and another true scorer alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving who can create his own shot. Though Kuzma doesn’t exactly help the Mavericks’ defensive issues, he’d raise the overall floor of this team and a make it a bigger threat in the Western Conference. If the Mavs can get away with dealing Grant Williams, whose first season with the team has been underwhelming, instead of Tim Hardaway Jr. (they’d likely need to off-load at least one) for a meaningful addition to their rotation, that’d be a win.
After losing Bruce Brown and Jeff Green last off-season, there’s both a void of leadership and general veteran talent off the Denver bench. And so the Nuggets would ideally add another piece at little cost — both in terms of trade and salary — that can help them in the playoffs. Grimes ($2 million deal) ticks both those boxes, having shown promising signs at the Knicks as a clear upgrade on Strawther. Why would New York do it? Reports have claimed Grimes is disgruntled with his role, while they add other long-term assets to help make a move for a big-name superstar. It’s most likely the reigning champs stand still at the deadline given there’s not many levers they can pull. The Nuggets aren’t trading any of their starters, and Reggie Jackson’s $5 million deal is their next most movable piece. However Jackson has been an important sixth man for Mike Malone’s team this season and valuable insurance whenever any of their starters get hurt, plus the guard is on a modest deal. It’s also tricky for Denver to upgrade Jackson without also sending out one of its starters. If the Nuggets somehow finds a way to make a move, expect it to be on the periphery.
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DETROIT PISTONS
Pistons receive: Kevin Huerter, Davion Mitchell, first-round pick, second-round pick
Kings receive: Bojan Bogdanovic, Killian Hayes
The Pistons last trade deadline weren’t prepared to part ways with Bogdanovic, one of their few reliable and consistent performers. But amid another another horror season for Detroit, who has the worst record in the NBA and suffered the longest losing streak in the team’s history, you have to wonder if that might have shifted. If the Pistons can get a first-round pick for Bogdanovic, 34, a useful rotation player like Huerter or Harrison Barnes and a young player like Davion Mitchell, it’s a good deal for Detroit from a long-term perspective. There would of course be no shortage of suitors for the Croatian forward if indeed he was available. Killian Hayes meanwhile reportedly wants out of Detroit, and a fresh start elsewhere for the former Pick 7 is probably best for both parties. The Pistons should otherwise be open to anything and everything — perhaps bar moving Cade Cunningham — with an emphasise on adding long-term assets in a bid to dig the franchise out of its current mess.
GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS
Warriors receive: Nikola Vucevic, Alex Caruso
Bulls receive: Chris Paul, Terrence Jackson-Davis, two first-round picks
The last The Warriors are desperate for an upgrade at centre and shake-up at large, so here they get help in multiple areas in a final bid to make things work in Steph Curry’s prime. A line-up of Vucevic, Draymond Green, Klay Thompson, Caruso and Steph Curry would be fascinating, with Vucevic and Caruso providing big boosts both ends of the floor. The question is, would it be enough to make the 20-24 Warriors a genuine contender again? Giving up such draft capital and Paul’s $30 million contract — essentially an expiring deal — would be an all-out commitment to winning over prioritising the future. But so long as the Warriors have Curry, they’re committed to winning, aren’t they? If Golden State doesn’t try something bold, this season has arguably reached a point where the team is better off standing still and waiting until the off-season to reassess its direction instead of making a trade for the sake of it.
Reports state the Rockets asked the question of Mikal Bridges and made an offer of multiple first-round picks, however the Nets showed no interest in moving the star forward. But what if Houston made an offer the Nets couldn’t refuse? The Rockets could sell the idea of a combination of win-now pieces, long-term assets and avoiding the need to bottom out – which the Nets have wanted to steer clear from. Former Pick 2 Green is still just 21 and could be anything, Eason, 22, is one of the brightest young players in the NBA and Landale offers insurance behind Nic Claxton, who’s on an expiring deal. It’s some price, but would immediately raise the floor of Ime Udoka’s team with a potent big three of Bridges, Alperen Sengun and Fred VanVleet. Ironically, the Nets still owe the Rockets future picks from the infamous James Harden trade in 2021. Having reportedly been in the market for a backup centre, the Rockets already made a move last week. They off-loaded Victor Oladipo and a very of second-round picks for the injured Steven Adams, who will serve as Sengun’s backup next season, casting more uncertainty around Landale’s future in Houston.
The Pacers already made arguably the biggest splash of any team by acquiring Pascal Siakam. So are they done yet? ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski interestingly revealed after the Siakam trade that the Pacers tried to get both Siakam and OG Anunoby, but were unable to meet the asking price set by the Raptors. It means Indiana could yet look to make another big move by the deadline, plus they have the assets and trade-friendly contracts to make it happen. Portland’s Jerami Grant, despite talk he isn’t available, would be the ideal addition as an upgrade on the wing who could fit in as the Pacers’ third star – a role he’s most suited to – alongside Tyrese Haliburton and Siakam. Given the Blazers’ reluctance to deal him (even though it makes sense), the Pacers would need to stump up in a deal. Grant would provide valuable two-way production on the wing, in particular on the defensive end, where the Pacers would be desperate to boost their No. 26 rating and become a legitimate contender in the East.
Much like Denver – there’s probably no necessity for the Clippers to make a move. For LA has virtually no draft capital to trade (next six first rounders are owed out from the Paul George/James Harden), nor do they need to do anything after taking their big swing on Harden in a move that’s paid massive dividends, having gone 24-6 over their last 30 games. Even the Clippers’ defence is ranked No. 8 in the NBA in their last 15 games, so it’s not like they need to address anything specific in a great spot to be. The Harden trade did however cost the Clippers a key chunk of their forward depth – they lost Robert Covington, Nic Batum, Marcus Morris Sr. and KJ Martin – so they could use some additional depth and a legitimate stretch five to play with their stars. It makes Washington an obvious target, with the Clippers here handing over their last remaining tradeable first-round pick and $16 million in expiring funds if PJ Tucker opts out of the last year of his $11 million deal (which you’d expect he did if he got traded to Charlotte). Tucker could also immediately reach a buyout with the Hornets to sign with a contender.
LA LAKERS
Lakers receive: Dejounte Murray
Hawks receive: Herb Jones, Jose Alvarado, Lakers’ two first-round picks
Pelicans receive: D’Angelo Russell
A three-team trade! The Lakers are the side that have reportedly been most active in talks for Dejounte Murray – talks that however hit a snag, with the Hawks wanting either Austin Reaves to be included in a deal or a third team to take on D’Angelo Russell. Enter New Orleans, who are in need of a more pure point guard despite CJ McCollum currently filling the position. The Pelicans substitute some of their depth to address that need, the Lakers, despite Russell’s strong play of late, get a clear upgrade at point guard and genuine two-way player, while Atlanta gets useful pieces and draft stock for Murray (and probably can’t expect too much more). Who says no? Despite the Lakers’ urgency to make another win-now move to help LeBron James and Anthony Davis, they could wait until the off-season given the team unlocks the option of trading three-first round picks to target an even bigger fish.
MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES
Grizzlies receive: Jonathan Isaac, two second-round picks
Magic receive: Luke Kennard
The soft tanking/asset building continues in what’s become a write-off season for the Grizzlies including campaign-ending shoulder injury to Ja Morant as well as Desmond Bane and Marcus Smart also facing long-term stints on the sidelines. And so everything Memphis does now should be with an eye towards the 2024/25 season, leaving veterans like Luke Kennard, John Konchar and Xavier Tillman Sr vulnerable in a trade if it can get draft capital back or cap space otherwise. The much-improved Magic should be prepared to stump up for a shooter given they have the worst three-point shooting efficiency in the NBA – making Kennard a natural target. Isaac’s $17 million deal is non guaranteed for next season, so the Grizzlies in this deal could open up sufficient cap space in the off-season and add to their chest of second-round picks – having landed three from Houston last week in the Steven Adams deal.
MIAMI HEAT
Heat receive: Alex Caruso
Bulls receive: Josh Richardson, Nikola Jovic, first-round pick
Is there a player who would be more suited to the infamous ‘Heat Culture’ than Caruso? The Terry Rozier was trade was supposed to take the Heat to another level, but the’ve in fact gone the other way and struggled badly since the guard’s arrival. While Miami could easily stand still and work things out as is, don’t be surprised if it has another move up its sleeve. Bringing in Caruso would not only be a big upgrade on Josh Richardson, but also provide more of a defensive balance in the backourt staggered with Rozier and Tyler Herro – and create a healthy dilemma of which two players get to start. Miami is fully committed to winning now, and adding Caruso to the playoff mix would only further make Erik Spoelstra’s side even more feared come playoff time. Seriously, no one would want to play them.
MILWAUKEE BUCKS
Bucks receive: Matisse Thybulle
Trail Blazers receive: Pat Connaughton, AJ Green, second-round pick
There’s been reports the Bucks are in the market for Dejounte Murray, but it feels unrealistic given their lack of trade capital – they have no control over their own first-round picks for the next season drafts and even limited second rounders to play with. As nice as Murray would be, bringing in a dedicated defensive perimeter stopper at a cheaper price to play alongside Damian Lillard feels the more likely – and arguably best – scenario to help off-set the loss of Jrue Holiday. Despite his offensive deficiencies, Thybulle makes plenty of sense for the Bucks to help boost their near bottom 10 defensive rating and to provide more versatility to their line-up. While it’s hard to gauge the dual American-Australian’s value, a team might be able to get Thybulle cheap-ish given his offensive issues.
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MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES
Timberwolves receive: Monte Morris
Pistons receive: Shake Milton, Troy Brown Jr.
The Timberwolves would love a more reliable backup point guard – and some insurance behind the 36-year old Mike Conley. Tyus Jones would be the dream target, however the Timberwolves likely don’t have the draft capital required to satisfy Washington in a deal unless the asking price lowers. Minnesota likely needs to look a tier down, with Morris one of the best value backup point guards who’s gettable. Reports have linked Minnesota, whose general manager Tim Connelly drafted Morris in Denver, to the 28-year old, in the final year of a three-season $27 million deal. It feels like the Pistons are selling Morris cheap here – and they’d probably want a pick thrown – though he’s battle injury in recent times and about to become a free agent. Plus Detroit gets a couple of veterans to help nurture its young group.
NEW ORLEANS PELICANS
Pelicans receive: Tyus Jones
Wizards receive: Larry Nance Jr, Jose Alvarado, first-round pick
Could this be the move that tips the Pelicans over as a legitimate contender in the West? Though they could also use an upgrade at centre, adding a pure point guard could unlock everything for the Pelicans, given their array of weapons lack a true playmaker running the show. Jones is known to be on the trade block and feels like the most likely Wizard to be moved, on an expiring $14 million deal. Some reports have claimed Washington wants two first rounders back in a trade, plus there will be a host of teams ling up to land the 27-year old, so New Orleans would need to make a juicy offer despite Jones’ impending free agency status. There would however be obvious defensive deficiencies in the backcourt given the lack of size of a Jones and McCollum. Size is one of the Pels’ greatest strengths too, so Jones could also slot into a sixth-man role. Given New Orleans’ logjam of guards, it’d be pretty well be forced to give one back to Washington, with Alvarado seemingly the most expendable.
NEW YORK KNICKS
Knicks receive: Bruce Brown
Raptors receive: Evan Fournier, first-round pick
The missing piece? If the Knicks are serious about trying to win it all this season, which, based on form, they should be, but staying flexible long-term, this might just be their best play. Recent reports have claimed New York has cooled on Brown, who, like Fournier, has a team option for next season, and that the Knicks are eyeing a bigger fish. But who else is available that can really propel them? Perhaps Dejounte Murray – but is he worth the price when the Knicks could wait it out in hopes that a certain guard for the Cavaliers becomes available? DeMar DeRozan? Maybe, but he’d also come at a greater price and it’s hard to say if he’d genuinely take them to the next level or if they’d be wasting assets on a short-term rental. The Knicks are also reportedly circling Jordan Clarkson, but he’s got three more years to run on his deal and thus would give New York less flexibility to target a bigger fish down the line. It feels like Brown, who can play multiple roles and buys in on both ends of the floor, and New York could be an ideal match and is the type of player Tom Thibedou would love. It’d also be the second trade between these teams in as many months after the Anunoby for RJ Barrett/Immanuel Quickley swap, which was of course the Knicks’ big swing, so they might well stand pat this week. But it’s also opened the need for more scoring and playmaking, making Brown an obvious target.
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OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER
Thunder receive: Nic Claxton
Nets receive: Davis Bertans, two first-round picks
If the Nets aren’t keen to pay Claxton, who’s due for a bumper raise this off-season – when he comes out of contract – the Thunder should be ready to strike. There’s been calls for OKC to add more size and a seasoned body to pair with Chet Holmgren in the frontcourt, while the Thunder would ideally find someone who fits the age demographic of the rest of their budding core. It makes Claxton a natural target. Sam Presti is armed with a bounty of draft picks, and you’d think he’d need to hand over a minimum of two in exchange for Claxton. If pure picks didn’t satisfy the Nets, who don’t appear to be keen to rebuild, there could however be a potential issue in terms of making salaries match in a deal for the $9 million Claxton. Bertans’ $17 million deal is clearly OKC’s most movable piece and gets it done in a straight swap, but Brooklyn wanting other player/s would really complicate matters. Vasilije Micić ($7 million deal) and Tre Mann ($3 million) could also be used separately, while the Nets would probably prefer a package centred around Josh Giddey, but it’s hard to see the Thunder parting ways with the Aussie young gun just yet.
ORLANDO MAGIC
Magic receive: Bogdan Bogdanovic
Hawks receive: Jonathan Isaac, first-round pick
While Bogdanovic isn’t considered to be on the trade block, he’d be an ideal target for the Magic, who rank dead last in the NBA in three-point shooting efficiency. This is of course a much-improved Orlando side that is now looking to round its squad with veterans and would be desperate to add shooting alongside Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Would say Isaac’s non-guaranteed deal (basically $17 million in cap space) and a first-round pick interest Atlanta if it was ready to waive the white flag on this season? It’s not far from the type of haul the Hawks would get back in a Dejounte Murray trade, so would they be better served instead moving a bench player then reassessing their direction in the off-season? Orlando has a host of other pieces it could dangle including Gary Harris and Cole Anthony.
PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
Sixers receive: Bruce Brown
Raptors receive: Marcus Morris Sr., Jaden Springer, two-second round picks
Fair to say news that Joel Embiid requires surgery has changed everything for Philadelphia, who reports throughout the season linked the team to the likes of Pascal Siakam, DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine. You sense the Sixers would however now be keen to take all their assets into the off-season and gear up for the 2024/25 campaign, plus the team, as constructed, has space to sign a max contract-level star in a rare spot to be for one of the chief contenders. Some have argued Philly could target a starting calibre centre to replace Embiid, but that feels like a waste of resources from a bigger picture perspective. The Sixers could otherwise still consider trading a collection of their expiring deals for an upgraded player also on an expiring as something of a mini swing – provided it doesn’t cost many additional assets – if they’re confident Embiid can get back at some stage. If things continue to go south for the Raptors and Brown’s market cools down, could Philly pry him for effectively two second-round picks and give up Jaden Springer? Springer’s $4 million deal for 2024/25 and Embiid’s $51 million deal are Philly’s only guaranteed contracts for next season, so the team could talk itself into a deal it opened up more cap space (albeit $4 million) and kept all its first rounders. This is more food for thought though, as it feels more likely the Sixers stand still at the deadline and hold all their picks with their superstar centre’s season potentially over.
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PHOENIX SUNS
Suns receive: Miles Bridges
Hornets receive: Nassir Little, Josh Okogie, three second-round picks
Scary areas for the rest of the NBA. It’s hard to think a trade like this could go through, but reports have stated the two teams are in active discussions over a Bridges trade, so all indications are a deal is looming. It comes despite Phoenix having virtually no assets other than a handful of second-rounders it picked up last off-season, so it’d literally be all-in on this roster. You suspect a Suns package would centre around Little and a collection of those picks, and the fact that’s the likely framework is a showing of how much Bridges’ value has dropped amid his off-court transgressions despite a strong season on the court, averaging over 20 points per game. The forward is playing on a one-year, $7 million deal and set to become a free agent at the end of the season. From a basketball perspective, it’s hard to say how Bridges would fit into Phoenix as juicy it sounds from a fantasy basketball mentality. The Suns would have some seriously potent small ball line-ups to double down on their high-octane offence, but the bigger question marks on them are on the other end of the floor. Plus it’d all come down to how Bridges buys into a different role than the one he currently has in Charlotte.
PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
Trail Blazers receive: Even Fournier, Quintin Grimes, first-round pick
Knicks receive: Malcolm Brogdon
The deadline should be pretty simple for the rebuilding Blazers – trade Brogdon for the best possible package. Portland has done a great job building up his trade value by showcasing the always consistent Brogdon to potential buyers. But the Blazers priority should now be selling high and bringing in long-term assets – ideally a first-round pick and another young piece to put with their young core – while handing the starting point guard duties to Scoot Henderson. Here, the Blazers convince the Knicks to give up Fournier (to make salaries match), Grimes as well as a first-round pick, though New York would push to keep Grimes. But this deal is intended to favour to Blazers, who would also open up salary cap space with Fournier’s non-guanteed money for next season. There’s also been suggestions Portland should look to trade Jerami Grant, but the team doesn’t appear to be keen to.
SACRAMENTO KINGS
Kings receive: Kyle Kuzma
Wizards receive: Harrison Barnes, Davion Mitchell, first-round pick
Sacramento gets the forward upgrade it needs without selling the farm. Kuzma doesn’t solve all the Kings’ problems, but better than Barnes at both ends of the floor and would be well suited to Mike Brown’s up-tempo style. Sacramento would suddenly boast a starting line-up of De’Aron Fox, Kevin Huerter, Kuzma, Keegan Murray and Domantas Sabonis in what would be a real handful for any team. Does this make the Kings a contender to come out of the West? Probably not. Does this make the Kings better overall and in a better position in the off-season with more talent on their roster? Almost certainly.
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SAN ANTONIO SPURS
Spurs receive: Chuma Okeke, second-round pick
Magic receive: Cedi Osman
While the Spurs have been linked to Dejounte Murray, they’re likely better served trusting the process – to steal a phrase from a rival organisation – and sticking with the youth movement. That means selling their veterans for long-term assets – either young players or picks – with the likes of Doug McDermott, DeVonte Graham, Cedi Osman, Zach Collins the types they should be willing to explore moves for. Though the aforementioned names likely wouldn’t yield the Spurs much more than second-round picks, the above idea would at least give San Antonio another draft asset, while Orlando brings in another shooter. Given both Okeke and Osman are on expiring deals, that’d be a win for San Antonio. Yes, not the most exciting deal, and the Spurs would ideally bring in a young player currently devoid of opportunities, but you sense this is the most realistic play the team should pursue.
TORONTO RAPTORS
Raptors receive: Davis Bertans, first-round pick
Thunder receive: Bruce Brown
Much like Portland with Brogdon, it’s operation get the best package available for Bruce Brown — or dance with whoever is willing to hand over a first-round pick. The Raptors only recently acquired Brown in the Pascal Siakam trade with the intention of forwarding him to a contender by the deadline. Assuming the reported key Brown suitors like the Lakers and Knicks pursue other moves, the Thunder could be a sneaky team to watch in the Brown sweepstakes given their bounty of picks, plus Bertans’ contract for next season is only $5 million guaranteed. And so the Raptors would open up a ton of cap space in the off-season and add a first-round pick, while the Thunder get another piece to help their playoff push at a cheap-ish price. A win-win.
UTAH JAZZ
Jazz receive: Markelle Fultz, first-round pick
Magic receive: Jordan Clarkson
Are the Jazz buyers or sellers? It’s to hard to tell. But unless they can make a move for another genuine star who will help take them to another level, which, it doesn’t feel like there’s one out there, their best option is flipping one of their parts to add to their suite of picks. Sure, Utah has turned its season around to sit well and truly in the playoff mix, but it’s also created strong trade appeal with the team’s veterans. Taking on Fultz’ expiring $17 million deal would also open up cap space for the off-season. It’s worth noting that the Jazz owes the Thunder a first-round pick this year (top 10 protected), so unless Utah is really bad, its top pick this year is likely going out the door.
WASHINGTON WIZARDS
Wizards receive: Gabe Vincent, Maxwell Lewis, first-round pick
Lakers receive: Tyus Jones
If the Wizards can move Jones for a useful player like Gabe Vincent, and most importantly, a first-round pick, they should pull the trigger. It’s worth noting Jones, despite being one of the most sought after players at the deadline, is on an expiring deal and due to become a free agent, so it’s unlikely teams get silly and overpay for the guard (though this is the NBA) with much more than this. If the Lakers fail to land a bigger name, you’d expect something like this to interest them and have Jones come in and run their second unit. Kyle Kuzma is on also on the trade block, but Washington would only part ways with the forward for a big price.
The Socceroos are through to the Asian Cup quarterfinals after a 4-0 win over Indonesia on Sunday night. The scoreline may have flattered the Australians who struggled at times, but there’s no doubting the excellent performances of some players.
Here’s how every Aussie performed in our Player Ratings!
Faced just one shot on target in the match (and that was a simple catch), but nevertheless had a busy afternoon. Ryan was often called into action to rush out and stifle long balls, while he was often passed back the ball under pressure. But he never panicked and distributed the ball well.
Gethin Jones: 4.5
Produced an inch-perfect cross for Martin Boyle’s headed goal to double the advantage on the stroke of halftime. It was just reward for Jones’s tireless attacking runs up the line … except he gave away the ball too often by running straight into packs of defenders. Made a few dubious decisions in defence, especially in the first half. And Jones almost lost his head when he lashed out at an opponent after being fouled. If the incident had been any worse, he would have seen a red card instead of yellow – but he lasted just three more minutes anyway before being taken off with an apparent groin injury.
Harry Souttar: 7
It was a sloppy start, and he was guilty of misreading a long ball into the box in the 16th minute that could have proved costly if not for some smart work from Ryan. But Souttar calmed those early nerves and was reliable from there out, before capping off the win in the 91st minute with a trademark header. He won all of his aerial duels in another commanding performance.
Kye Rowles: 5.5
He’s often overshadowed by his centre-back partner in the green and gold (literally as well as figuratively). But he made a number of crucial interventions to stifle the Indonesian forays into the area including a team-high four clearances and was an assured presence at the back.
Aziz Behich: 5
Had a nervy start but settled into the game. The Socceroos needed calm heads in the second half and he contributed to a more stable, disciplined defensive unit after the break. No Aussie touched the ball more, and he passed well, but couldn’t find a target on any of his crosses.
MIDFIELD
Jackson Irvine: 7
Irvine has been excellent so far this tournament, and he continued his strong run of form with another influential performance. No Socceroo was up for the fight in the early minutes as much as Irvine, who set up the opening goal with a barnstorming run past a pair of defenders. He wasn’t at his best in terms of passing – completing a lowly 63% of his passes – but Indonesia’s hard-pressing defence deserves credit for breaking up so many attacks. He won’t get that opening goal credited to his name, since it was a cross deflected into the net, and he was also extremely unlucky not to score the third Socceroos goal – which was well saved but fell straight to Craig Goodwin to finish off.
Keanu Baccus: 5
Baccus was overrun in the midfield in the first half as Indonesia dominated that area, but he worked as hard as ever and made a number of tackles and interceptions. Improved markedly after the break and became more influential with his passing. Taken off in the 86th minute.
Riley McGree: 3.5
McGree and Bruno Fornaroli were meant to provide the creativity and attacking impetus that the Socceroos have lacked so far this tournament, but it was another very quiet performance. He couldn’t build the kind of connected, smooth-flowing passing moves that he often orchestrates at his best, gave the ball away frequently, and was subbed off after 61 minutes.
ATTACK
Martin Boyle: 7
Boyle was switched on from the opening kick-off, and was willing to take on defenders from the first minute until the last. Boyle’s dangerous dribbling was on full display, completing six of seven dribbles (a game-high). He also won a remarkable 10 of his 11 ground duels, which are battles for the ball with a defender. His goal sums up everything we love about Boyle – a well-timed run that caught out a defender, followed by a desperate body-on-the-line dive for the ball. It was his second goal in as many games.
Jordan Bos: 5
Graham Arnold sees Bos as a winger rather than a left-back, but this was not the young gun’s best attacking performance by some distance. He played just one ball into the final third, despite getting into some excellent positions and showing off great technical ability. The potential is clearly there for him to be a dangerous attacking threat, and Arnold praised him after the game, but he lost possession in good positions when he could have done more to create effective chances. Defensively, however, he tackled well and made five recoveries.
Bruno Fornaroli: 5
The 36-year-old was brought in for his ability to control the ball in tight areas and create chances – an especially valuable skill against packed defences.
And he started well, fighting hard for the ball and even attempting an acrobatic bicycle kick that instead earned him a yellow card.
He didn’t have the kind of creative input Arnold would have hoped for, made some poor tackles and lost the ball a bit too frequently, but there were promising signs.
He faces a tough battle on his hands to retain the position for the tough quarter-final ahead, with Arnold often preferring Mitch Duke in big games. Fornaroli was replaced after 61 minutes.
SUBSTITUTES
Mitch Duke: 4
Like Fornaroli, he struggled to get on the ball, but made a number of good runs off the ball to create space. He made a horrible mess of a great opportunity to chip the keeper and seal the game when it was 2-0 soon after coming onto the park. It was a quiet day for the dependable veteran, but he’ll be buoyed after getting through half an hour on his return from a minor hamstring niggle.
Connor Metcalfe: 4
He hardly saw the ball in his half an hour on the pitch, and started slowly before settling into the rhythm of the contest. There were no major mistakes, so it perhaps seems harsh to give him just a four – but there was also little of note from the talented midfielder, besides a couple of nice driving runs into space.
Nathaniel Atkinson: 6
Having lost his spot to Gethin Jones after replacing him for the Uzbekistan game, Atkinson was forced into action when Jones went down with injury in the 69th minute. Atkinson showed good intent with a couple of nice dribbles and a long-range shot that drifted wide. He also delivered an excellent cross into the box to set up the third goal. Didn’t need to do much defensively, but Arnold will trust he can replace Jones for the next match if the new recruit can’t overcome what looked like a groin injury.
Craig Goodwin: 9
Goodwin delivered one of the all-time cameos off the bench, scoring then assisting in the space of just over two minutes. His volley was clinical and coolly-taken, before he delivered a perfect set piece ball for Souttar to head home in the 91st minute. His set pieces were very poor in the opening game of the tournament – and he hadn’t played since then – so it was the perfect reminder to Graham Arnold of what he can do.
Aiden O’Neill: N/A
Only had a handful of minutes and didn’t have much of an impact.
