Leeds United transfer business questioned as Jack Harrison to Everton update shared

19/06/2024 Raymond 0

Graham Smyth, the chief football writer for the Yorkshire Evening Post, has labeled the loan release clause that allows Jack Harrison to return to Everton from Leeds United without a fee this summer as “egregious.” Expressing his dismay on June 19, Smyth pointed out that this clause permits Harrison to join Everton on loan for a second consecutive season without Leeds receiving a loan fee, although Everton will cover all of Harrison’s wages for the 2024-25 season.

Kristjaan Speakman finally breaks his silence as Sunderland confirm first transfer decision

19/06/2024 Raymond 0

Kristjaan Speakman has finally spoken out as Sunderland confirmed their first summer transfer. The sporting director has kept a low profile since the club began searching for a new manager in February. Apart from a statement from owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus earlier this month, communication with fans has been minimal. Louis-Dreyfus mentioned that an appointment would be made “imminently,” but ten days have passed, and the club still appears far from securing a new head coach.

Despite the silence on the managerial front, Sunderland made a significant move yesterday by confirming their first outgoing transfer of the summer. Alex Bass has joined Notts County on a permanent deal after making only two senior appearances since his move to Wearside in 2022. Speakman commented on Bass’ departure, stating on the club’s official website: “Alex had a successful loan last season and is eager to continue playing regular football. After discussing multiple options this summer and considering Alex’s future and the development of our younger goalkeepers, we agreed this move was best for all parties. We wish Alex the best of luck in the next stage of his career.”

“I’m not a huge fan” – Stoke City urged against Steven Schumacher transfer reunion

18/06/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City has numerous foundational elements that need to be established to elevate the club to its full potential. Despite having some of the wealthiest owners in the Championship, the Potters consistently find themselves in the middle of the pack, rarely posing a serious threat to achieve higher standings.

Steven Schumacher has been tasked with changing this status quo, and a successful summer transfer window will be crucial in reshaping the team’s fortunes. The club has been linked with Mickel Miller, a former player of Schumacher’s. TEAMtalk reported that Stoke is considering a move for Miller, a wing-back currently with Plymouth Argyle, where contract renewal talks have stalled.

From a Stoke fan’s perspective, Liam Burks, a pundit for Football League World, believes that strengthening the left side of the defense is essential for the Potters this summer. However, he does not view Mickel Miller as an outstanding option to bolster their backline.

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

17/06/2024 Raymond 0

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.

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

17/06/2024 Raymond 0

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.

Latest Liam Rosenior and Frank Lampard reports as Burnley and Sunderland look to make appointments

17/06/2024 Raymond 0

There is buzzing news from the Championship, particularly regarding Sunderland’s league rival, Burnley, who are also in the process of appointing a new head coach. Former Hull manager Liam Rosenior, once considered for the Burnley position, is reportedly no longer a candidate. Rosenior, who had been in the running for Sunderland’s head coach position, initially engaged in talks with the club’s top officials. However, these discussions did not advance as Sunderland decided to explore other options.