Month: June 2024

Leeds United battling Aston Villa, Leicester and Napoli to sign ‘brilliant’ Championship defender

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Leeds United are reportedly one of five clubs interested in signing Sunderland defender Trai Hume this summer, as Daniel Farke seeks to bolster his right-back options. With Connor Roberts’ loan spell at Elland Road ending and Sam Byram’s injury history posing a concern, Leeds are in need of at least one, possibly two, new right-backs. Trai Hume, known for his incredible stamina, work ethic, and reliability, started all 46 league games for Sunderland last season and is capable of playing on either side of the defense or in the middle. However, Leeds face competition from Aston Villa, Napoli, Leicester, and Bournemouth for Hume’s signature.

Sicily earns maximum coaches’ votes as Hawks dominate

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James Sicily has become the fourth Hawk in as many weeks to earn maximum coaches’ votes, joining Will Day, Dylan Moore, and James Worpel in receiving accolades for his outstanding performance. Sicily’s contribution was pivotal in Hawthorn’s commanding 48-point victory over Richmond at the MCG, where he amassed 33 disposals, including 28 kicks, secured 15 marks, and made 10 critical intercept possessions. His efficiency stood at an impressive 81.8%, contributing to 881 metres gained throughout the match.

Two chats that secured Stoke City’s second transfer of the summer

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Ben Gibson revealed that he had candid conversations with his friend Jon Walters while deciding if Stoke City was the right club for him. The centre-back, leaving Norwich City after four years and a successful season finishing in the Championship play-off places, had several offers but wanted a clear picture of what was happening inside Stoke before committing.

Gibson emphasized the importance of the club’s direction over its facilities and history. “I’ve spoken about the magnitude of the club, the unbelievable owners, the facilities, the stadium, but what really matters to me is where are we heading?” he said. He made it clear that if Stoke’s aim was only to replicate last season or settle as a mid-table Championship team, he wouldn’t have signed. Gibson also spoke with head coach Steven Schumacher to ensure everyone at Stoke shared the same vision, noting that aligning with the manager’s style of play was crucial.

Former Sheffield Wednesday boss linked with potential Championship return

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Former Sheffield Wednesday manager Steve Bruce has been linked with a potential surprise return to the Championship this coming season. Bruce’s departure from the Owls in 2019, after a very brief stint at Hillsborough, left many fans in South Yorkshire displeased despite the decent compensation Wednesday received when he joined Newcastle United. Journalist Alan Nixon reports that Bruce is among the names being considered by Burnley as they search for Vincent Kompany’s successor. Although Bruce is not high on the list, Burnley is reportedly keen to bring in a big name following Kompany’s move to Bayern Munich.