Financial Fair Play

Sunday Matt O’Riley Bid Rumour

01/07/2024 Raymond 0

Southampton are reportedly preparing a significant £20 million bid for Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley, including potential add-ons that could push the total amount beyond Celtic’s previous record sales of approximately £25 million. Southampton manager Russell Martin, who previously worked with O’Riley at MK Dons, is keen to reunite with the Danish international. Since his move to Celtic, O’Riley has thrived, becoming a key player and significantly contributing to their double-winning campaign last season.

Aware of financial fair play constraints, Southampton is unlikely to meet Celtic’s initial asking price directly. O’Riley’s impressive performances for Celtic have attracted considerable attention, including from Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, and several other European clubs, although no formal offers have met Celtic’s valuation yet. Celtic, having secured O’Riley on a new contract in October, are in a strong negotiating position and are unlikely to accept anything less than their valuation. It remains uncertain if Southampton will meet Celtic’s demands, but a bidding war could ensure Celtic secures the best possible deal for their star midfielder.

West Brom’s stunning £43m squad value after increase compared to Leeds United, Sunderland, Sheffield United and rivals

16/06/2024 Raymond 0

The summer transfer window has officially opened, leading to a significant rise in squad values across the Championship. Despite the departures of top players from Luton Town, Burnley, and Sheffield United to the Premier League, the Championship remains packed with talent. This transfer window is expected to see several inter-division deals and the arrival of lesser-known international stars.

However, many clubs are constrained by Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, which might limit activity. Nevertheless, clubs will still seek to strengthen their squads to meet their objectives. For example, West Bromwich Albion finished in the top six last season but were outperformed by Southampton in the play-offs, leading to another year in the Championship. Despite this, West Brom’s squad has increased significantly in transfer value compared to other teams in the division.

Every Premier League and Championship free agent for Stoke City to consider so far this summer

02/06/2024 Raymond 0

The free agent market is attracting significant attention from both Premier League and Championship clubs, as managers and recruitment chiefs seek out bargains, gambles, and hidden gems. Stoke City has already initiated their summer activity by signing goalkeeper Viktor Johansson, taking advantage of a relegation release clause. Head coach Steven Schumacher and sporting director Jon Walters are focused on enhancing the first team squad by adding balance and quality, particularly seeking one or two strikers and a center-back.

Several Premier League clubs have yet to confirm their retained lists following the conclusion of the 2023/24 campaign. In the Championship, Cardiff City and Leeds United have also not published their lists. Below is a summary of the current group of players without a contract beyond June 30.

49ers are now optimistic they can sell four Leeds United players permanently this summer

11/05/2024 Raymond 0

Leeds United faces a hectic summer ahead, regardless of their success in securing promotion. Their journey begins with the Championship play-off campaign, kicking off with a two-legged semi-final against Norwich City. These playoffs offer a shot at redemption for Leeds, serving as a second opportunity for an immediate return to the Premier League after faltering in their final six matches, missing out on a top-two finish.