Saturday Football Roundup: Liverpool Eye Barcola and More

Premier League

Liverpool are reported to be weighing up a summer approach for France winger Bradley Barcola, and could hold an edge in any pursuit even as Paris Saint-Germain are believed likely to open contract discussions soon. Manager Arne Slot has also stressed the importance of getting the best from new signing Alexander Isak as the club plans for a long-term successor to Mohamed Salah.

Chelsea have applied to the league for permission to continue wearing the FIFA Club World Cup winners’ badge on their shirts for the 2026/27 season. Brighton’s head coach Fabian Hurzeler has taken an unconventional step to shore up set-piece defending by bringing in an MMA fighter to work with the squad and reshape the team’s approach. Meanwhile, professional sports clubs around London have increased security measures after the national threat level was raised to severe.

Manchester United

United are reportedly ready to allow as many as nine players to leave when the summer window opens as part of a wider squad reshuffle. Despite a productive loan spell at Barcelona, Marcus Rashford is said not to be a subject of interest for Bayern Munich at this stage. Michael Carrick expressed delight after Kobbie Mainoo signed a new contract, saying the midfielder embodies the club’s values.

Arsenal

Arsenal have brought in an outside physiotherapist to review a recent run of injuries that could impact their title challenge. A Premier League panel upheld the view that Gabriel’s clash with Erling Haaland warranted a red card. Manager Mikel Arteta has spoken about his squad’s hunger to make history with the club, while UEFA may examine comments made by Declan Rice after Arsenal’s draw with Atletico Madrid and could consider disciplinary action. Arteta also warned teenager Ethan Nwaneri that he needs to demonstrate commitment during his spell on loan at Marseille if he is to fulfil his potential.

Scotland

Rangers are reportedly furious with the SPFL after the governing body sided with Celtic in a dispute over away allocations. Former Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes expects the title race to remain a three-way contest regardless of the weekend’s outcomes. Outgoing Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel said he thrives on handling criticism and revealed he may still require up to three operations on a damaged shoulder. Cameron Carter-Vickers has returned to training, marking a significant step in his recovery.

World Cup

Several leading European federations anticipate financial losses at the next World Cup despite FIFA increasing the tournament’s prize and participation funds by $112 million, according to reports. FIFA is also ramping up sales of premium hospitality packages for the expanded event, with luxury tickets still available for the vast majority of matches.

That covers the main headlines and transfer chatter from Saturday’s papers.