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Manchester United are in the midst of a takeover process that still remains 'unclear' at Old Trafford with no end in sight, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

What's the latest on the Manchester United takeover process?

As per The Daily Mail, Manchester United bidders are now fearful over whether the Glazer family will commit to selling the club despite the Red Devils being up for sale since last November.

The report states that there is no way that any new owner will be in place for their first match of the Premier League campaign at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers on August 14th, as the 'necessary checks' needed to ratify a change of hands at ownership level officially would still drag the process beyond the timeline of being completed by the middle of next month.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his petrochemicals firm INEOS want to buy a majority controlling stake that may allow two of the Glazer brothers to stay on in minority stakeholder roles while Sheikh Jassim and the Nine Two Foundation, Ratcliffe's rival bidder, want to buy the club outright with no external involvement, as per Sky Sports.

Taking to Twitter, journalist Jacobs, who will give a little more information regarding the takeover situation later on, has confirmed that despite 'frustration' from both parties, there are no plans for either Ratcliffe or Sheikh Jassim to pull out of the running to take control of Manchester United.

Speaking to Football FanCast, Jacobs also took the time to give some further insight into the landscape that both bidders find themselves in at present and reiterated that nobody has pulled the plug on their efforts to gain control at Old Trafford.

Jacobs told FFC: "So this is now less about specific timescales and more about the group's understanding what the Glazers' true intentions are. There's no indication that either group at this stage is going to pull out and that will remain the case unless perhaps one of them feels like they are a stalking horse in all of this. In other words, they don't stand a realistic chance of winning and that's the first clue in a takeover of this magnitude. We saw this with Chelsea, too; when a group feels that they've lost, they tend to be one of the first to come forward and speak about the situation, so we actually might learn more information via the Manchester United sale process from a group who either feels they're out the race or is out the race or pulls out the race. At this stage, both Ratcliffe and Jassim remain in the process and that's why the situation is unclear."

What next for Manchester United?

Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag won't be too phased by things that are above his head at Old Trafford and will instead focus his energy on trying to build a squad worthy of competing on all fronts this term.

Mason Mount and Andre Onana have already entered the building from Chelsea and Inter Milan, respectively, representing two major pieces of business for Manchester United as they look to continue on their upward trajectory on the field, as per Transfermarkt.

Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has also given an update regarding Manchester United's pursuit of Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund, stating on Twitter: "Man United plan remains the same. Bid for Rasmus Højlund soon to avoid PSG hijack, as revealed yesterday. PSG are speaking to player’s camp — Man United agreed terms with Højlund and speaking to Atalanta."

Lastly, Jonny Evans has re-joined the Red Devils on a short-term contract in pre-season and there is a chance that he could extend his stay at the club on a permanent deal, according to ESPN.

Tottenham Hotspur might just have the answer to the conundrum that Harry Kane's uncertain future is bringing, with an unorthodox move that will take many by surprise.

How long is Ivan Toney's ban?

That's according to FootballTransfers, who suggest that Ange Postecoglou is willing to put his faith in Ivan Toney to return strongly from his ban.

Having pleaded guilty to multiple betting charges back in February, the England international had the book truly launched at him, with an astonishing eight-month ban from all football-related activity. He will return to action for Brentford on January 16th 2024, and has since written on Twitter: "I now focus on returning to play the game I love next season."

Aside from all this, Kane has continued to be linked with an exit from north London, as Bayern Munich seemingly increase the pressure with each passing week. With reports stating that a third bid in excess of €80m (£70m) is to be expected, the Spurs hierarchy have since suggested that Toney marks the perfect replacement.

Should the England captain leave this summer, a move for the Bees' main man is to be considered. However, the preferred plan would be to keep ahold of their 29-year-old gem until January, to then sanction his exit whilst signing an unbanned Toney in his place.

The numerous parameters surrounding this story make it one that will likely continue to evolve throughout the window.

How much is Harry Kane worth in the transfer market?

Whilst many might suggest that the £70m set to be offered represents fine value for a man with just one year left on his deal, the importance Kane has had to his side has been unparalleled.

FootballTransfers take it a step further, noting his expected Transfer Value at a lofty €87.3m (£75m). Meanwhile, his potential successor sits at just €33.8m (£29m), showcasing the financial disparity despite the gulf in quality not being too huge.

Last term, amongst all the chaos that Antonio Conte's reign brought, he remained the one quality constant.

His tally of 30 league goals represented a sensational return, and under Postecoglou's hopefully-stable new regime, this could even improve further.

That's not to forget his quality on the ball as a creator either, willing to drop deep to dictate the play and forge chances for others. Few have mastered this role like him, with his 2020/21 season seeing the marksman pick up both the league's Golden Boot and Playmaker awards.

However, last campaign was also a fine one for Toney, who maintained a 7.25 average rating that was largely upheld through his 20 league strikes.

The "remarkable" 27-year-old – in the words of his manager Thomas Frank – would pair this with 0.8 key passes per game too, as his heatmap saw him occupy the left wing arguably even more often than he would the penalty area, via Sofascore.

He too is clearly willing to drop in as Kane does with such success.

April 2022 even saw journalist Mark White fantasize about the potential of Arsenal securing his signature, suggesting his presence would have given the Gunners "world-class depth," whilst Bees writer Billy Grant has previously lauded the English frontman as a "monster."

However, it could now be their bitter rivals that instead swoop, putting aside his ban to secure the perfect heir to the irreplaceable Kane.

Tottenham Hotspur star Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg is open to leaving Spurs this summer as La Liga giants Atletico Madrid open talks for him.

Who is leaving Tottenham?

Ange Postecoglou has already sealed the signings of goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, playmaker James Maddison and the incoming winger Manor Solomon.

The trio follow Sweden international winger Dejan Kulusevski, who has signed permanently for Spurs following an 18-month loan spell from Juventus.

It's been reported that the Lilywhites are chasing a new centre-back as well, with links surrounding Tosin Adarabioyo of Fulham, Bayer Leverkusen's Edmond Tapsoba, Wolves' Max Kilman and Wolfsburg defender Micky van de Ven.

It could end up being a busy summer at Hotspur Way, but to make room for these new arrivals, certain squad members will inevitably have to make way.

Indeed, Hugo Lloris, Ivan Perisic, Davinson Sanchez, Ryan Sessegnon, Eric Dier, Ben Davies, Giovani Lo Celso, Sergio Reguilon and Tanguy Ndombele have all been tipped to potentially follow Harry Winks out the door.

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, despite being a mainstay under a succession of Spurs managers over the last few seasons, is also a player who could very well depart this window.

The Dane is attracting interest from Atletico, with journalist Sami Mokbel of The Daily Mail sharing what he knows on Twitter.

Mokbel claims the Spanish side have opened talks over a deal for Hojbjerg, who in turn is "open" to leaving Tottenham as he eyes a fresh challenge.

"Atletico Madrid open talks with Tottenham over move for Pierre Emile-Hojberg," said Mokbel.

"Player fully open to opportunity to join La Liga club."

In his piece for The Mail, it is also claimed Spurs are unwilling to do business right now, but talks are certainly ongoing to make the move happen.

Hojbjerg is a personal transfer target for Atletico boss Diego Simeone, who has told his recruitment staff to actively explore a move for the 27-year-old.

What's been said about Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg?

The Denmark international has been praised by pundits and members of the press alike for his contribution at Spurs in the last 12 months.

Called "sensational" at times by members of the press, despite his "limitations", and former Spurs goalkeeper Paul Robinson is in no denial over just how good Hojbjerg can be.

Speaking to Football Insider at the back end of last year, the former England shot-stopper said Hojbjerg was playing his best football under Antonio Conte at the time.

"I’ve been surprised by how much he has stepped up this year," said Robinson.

“I thought he was the one who would make way for Yves Bissouma. The club spent a lot of money on Bissouma. I think Hojbjerg recognised that and stepped up.

"He is playing to a level that we have never seen before. He is playing his best football in a Spurs shirt."

Conte, meanwhile, has previously called the former Southampton star "fantastic".

"Pierre, no one asked me about him, but I think in every game he is doing a fantastic job," said Conte.

“Every player is improving their level and for this reason Tottenham is going up and up."

Liverpool are one of the clubs monitoring Birmingham City prospect Trevan Sanusi, who is poised to leave this summer, according to a recent report from The Daily Mail.

What's the latest Liverpool transfer news?

Jurgen Klopp is clearly looking to build for the future, given some of the players that have been linked with a switch to Anfield, with 19-year-old Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia now considered a priority target, following recent talks.

With the manager also keen on signing a new centre-back, 21-year-old Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio has emerged as a target, and the Reds would have no issues paying his €45 (£39m) release clause this summer.

Young Torino defender Perr Schuurs is also admired by Klopp, with Liverpool set to return for a new offer soon, having had their opening bid of €30m (£26m) turned down, and they could be set to match the Italian club's €40m (£34m) asking price.

Two Liverpool players feature in the top 25 of the Golden Boy Index, which ranks European football's most promising young talents, with Harvey Elliott sitting in 14th and Stefan Bajcetic ranking 21st, and the Merseyside outfit are now keen to bring in another exciting prospect.

That is according to a report from The Daily Mail, which details that the Reds are keeping tabs on Birmingham's Sanusi, who is poised to leave St. Andrew's this summer, amid growing interest in his signature.

Scouts have made regular checks on the 16-year-old's progress, and Liverpool are now keen on snapping him up, but they face fierce competition from a number of the Premier League's top clubs.

Manchester City, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are all keeping tabs on the youngster, who has already occasionally been training with the Birmingham first team, however he has not signed his scholarship contract.

The Magpies and the Reds have of course been linked with similar targets already this summer, with reports claiming the former liked what they saw of Dominik Szoboszlai while the latter fancied a move for Sandro Tonali, and it seems they could be about to go head to head with Manchester's finest along with Spurs.

The left-winger has already featured in Birmingham's match-day squad, being called up for their away trip to Blackpool last season, but he is yet to make an appearance for the first team.

Who is Trevan Sanusi?

The Birmingham starlet has managed to force his way into the U21s team, scoring the second goal in a 3-0 victory against Crewe Alexandra back in March, while he also netted a stoppage-time winner against Everton in December.

Birmingham boss John Eustace has hailed the forward as a "really exciting young attacking player", and he clearly has a lot of faith in him, given that he has already called him up to the first-team squad for a Championship match.

Considering the young prospect only turned 16 in April, he is likely to be some way off breaking into the Liverpool squad, however he is showing all the signs that he could go on to be a top player, if he continues his current trajectory.

Sanusi is rising through the ranks with England, making nine appearances for the Under 16s in international friendlies, weighing in with one goal and one assist, and it is exciting news that Liverpool are in the mix to secure his signature.

Arsenal are seemingly far from finished spending big this window, with another huge target having now emerged…

What's the latest on Aurelien Tchouameni to Arsenal?

Reports coming out of Spain are the latest to suggest that the Gunners are now bidding for another midfield general.

Despite slowly progressing over a £105m deal to sign Declan Rice, Mikel Arteta is wasting no time in securing the perfect man to partner the West Ham United captain.

It is noted that an astronomical €90m (£77m) bid has been lodged for Aurelien Tchouameni, although Real Madrid still view the French international as untouchable.

Such a mouth-watering fee though has caught the attention of Carlo Ancelotti, but it will likely take an even more sizable offer to tempt them to sell and him to leave the Spanish capital after just one year.

How good is Aurelien Tchouameni?

Whilst many might have assumed that the acquisition of Rice would inject some added defensive impetus into the engine room, it now could be argued that this fresh update suggests the England international will instead be relied on to create more than was first imagined.

That comes at a good time, considering he is coming off the back of a term where he notched six goal contributions and maintained one key pass per game in the Premier League for the Irons, via Sofascore.

Tchouameni boasts a plethora of starring qualities himself, but has earned particular fame for his work breaking up the play and setting away counterattacks.

If he was to be likened to anyone in world football, his calmness and ability to both dictate and break up play do draw comparisons with Manchester City's Rodri. FBref supplements this with his inclusion on the former AS Monaco star's 'similar players' list.

Arteta has not been afraid of mimicking Pep Guardiola's tactical ideals or personnel decisions in the past either, lending to this theory.

Last year the Spain international was instrumental in their treble-winning success, even scoring the winner in their Champions League final victory over Inter Milan. His presence at the base of their midfield was imperative in the control they exerted in almost every game they played.

Meanwhile, in the league he maintained an average rating of 7.32, buoyed by his 91% pass accuracy, 1.2 clearances and 1.9 tackles per game, via Sofascore. The foremost figure actually saw him rated as the ninth-best player in the whole division.

Although playtime has been hard to come by for Tchouameni in Madrid, he still has showcased the class which has led to a great deal of praise. Presenter Joe Flemons even noted: "A future Real Madrid midfield of Aurelién Tchouaméni & Eduardo Camavinga is a frightening prospect. Two sensational talents, already proving their worth at a top level and only getting better."

In La Liga, the 23-year-old would record a 7.13 average rating, also posting a 94% pass accuracy, 1.5 interceptions and 1.9 tackles per game all whilst only averaging 65 minutes per game, via Sofascore.

Despite being four years Rodri's junior, it could be argued that the World Cup finalist has already showcased a level that surpasses the 27-year-old, with room to grow exponentially.

Should Arteta tempt him to join his revolution, it could provide that finishing touch that truly takes them to a level where they can topple the unrelenting Citizens.

Manchester United are interested in making a move to sign teenage striker Adama Bojang this summer as Erik ten Hag aims to bolster his attacking options.

What’s the latest on Adama Bojang to Manchester United?

Fabrizio Romano took to Twitter to share an update on Man United’s interest in the 19-year-old, saying: “Manchester United are among clubs now showing interest in Gambia 2004 born talent Adama Bojang.

“Understand Eintracht Frankfurt and RB Leipzig are pushing to close deal for Bojang, considered a huge talent.”

Mason Mount is also being eyed by Ten Hag this summer, and despite United having a third bid turned down for the Chelsea star, it might not be long before a deal is agreed.

Could Adama Bojang replace Anthony Martial at Manchester United?

Strengthening United's attacking options should be a priority for the Dutchman ahead of next season, especially considering that only two teams in the top half of the table scored fewer goals than them during 2022/23, which arguably prevented them from making a sustained Premier League title challenge. The Red Devils scored 58 goals in total, 36 behind champions Manchester City.

Martial scored just six times in the league while only ranking sixth for shots per game (1.3) and second for big chances missed (eight) suggesting that he was hardly effective in front of goal.

He faces an uncertain future at Old Trafford and with just 12 months left on his £250k-per-week deal, Ten Hag may have to lose him for a knockdown fee this summer in order to get him off the wage budget, although much will depend on whether he can sign another top class forward.

Bojang isn’t exactly in the same league as targets such as Rasmus Hojlund and Victor Osimhen, yet he has been dubbed as the “Gambian Hurricane”, such is his ferocious playing style, as the pacy 6 foot 3 starlet can terrify opposition defences with his direct approach.

He plays for Gambian side Steve Biko FC although his most impressive displays have been saved for the international stage, scoring six times in just eight games for the Gambia U20 side – and showed his pedigree by netting a wonderful hat-trick against Sudan in the quarter-finals of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations.

He also scored twice in four matches during the U20 World Cup, further enhancing his growing reputation and was lauded as an “insane talent” by U23 scout Antonio Mango last month, suggesting that he may be an excellent signing for Ten Hag.

His talent suggests he could be a hit in England and if he settles in well, there is no reason why he can't surpass Martial at the Old Trafford side.

After a magnificent loan spell in France, Folarin Balogun has been linked with a move to Crystal Palace.

Indeed, with Arsenal edging towards a deal for Chelsea’s Kai Havertz as the club looks to add attacking reinforcements a move could be forthcoming for the new USA international.

Alongside the German, the club already has Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah in the ranks as they looked well-stacked ahead of Champions League football next season.

What’s the latest on Folarin Balogun to Crystal Palace?

According to Express Sport, if the Gunners are to complete the double acquisitions of Declan Rice and Havertz, then Balogun could be sold as part of the funding.

This outlet reveals that the 21-year-old is prepared to leave to pursue regular football and the Eagles are understood to be keenly tracking the forward.

It has been suggested that the American could cost in the region of €40m (£34m).

Why would Folarin Balogun be a good signing for Crystal Palace?

The New York-born frontman enjoyed a sensational campaign on loan at Reims, recording 22 goals in 39 appearances to become the Ligue 1’s joint-fourth-highest scorer.

This imperious vein of form was noted by Mikel Arteta, who back in February, said: “He’s really ambitious, really committed, and really brave. I’m really happy for him because he deserves what he’s getting.

“When you look at the numbers and what he is doing, it’s just incredible. It’s very rare to see that. But he’s got something special, that’s why we decided to give him a long-term contract.”

Balogun’s stirring breakout term has seen him likened to Atalanta’s Rasmus Hojlund as per FBref, with both players relatively young and brimming with limitless potential.

The Dane has been tipped for a £85m move to Manchester United and the Hale End graduate performs similarly to his peer in a range of categories.

The two-cap international scored more goals last season (21 vs 12), but was also more of a force in linking attacking sequences as he registered more progressive carries (56 vs 40), progressive passes (55 vs 37), and shot-creating actions (80 vs 56), as per FBref.

Both players possess a punishing pace, meaningful movement, and a keen eye for goal as both could be set to dominate top-flight football in the years to come.

By this evidence, the former Middlesbrough loanee is deserving of consistent first-team action instead of aimlessly waiting in the wings on the Arsenal bench.

The Premier League will be blessed if these two rising stars are appearing on a weekly basis, and Balogun can join up with Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise in the next generation of Palace’s youthful and blistering attack if Steve Parish can seal his man.

Liverpool are still in contention to sign AS Monaco star Aurelien Tchouameni, according to a report from French outlet L’Equipe (via Sport Witness). 

The lowdown: Familiar rivals

Fresh off the back of falling to defeat in Paris at the hands of Real Madrid, the Reds have seemingly been battling the La Liga giants off the pitch too for the capture of Tchouameni for some time.

Recent reports suggested that Los Blancos were in the box seat to sign the 22-year-old sensation, however, speculation continues to rumble on with Paris Saint-Germain also in the mix.

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Now a fresh report from one reputable French source has shed some light on the situation…

The latest: Reds still in the hunt

As per L’Equipe, translated by SW, Liverpool are believed to be preparing to ‘try their luck again’ following the final heartache.

It’s claimed that the Anfield club have ‘followed’ the eight-cap ace for a prolonged period and at one stage Tchouameni was ‘more tempted’ by the prospect of a move to work under Jurgen Klopp.

The report also states that Real Madrid have ‘recently improved’ their offer to sign the French youngster hailed as the ‘complete player’ by France national team manager Didier Deschamps.

The verdict: Statement required

After losing the 2018 Champions League final against the same opposition, Liverpool swiftly secured the capture of a midfield enforcer and now Klopp favourite, Fabinho, from no other than Ligue 1 side AS Monaco.

Pulling off a nigh-on identical move some four years later would be just the tonic needed to boost morale amongst Reds fans.

Also predominantly operating as a defensive midfielder, Tchouameni would provide much-needed cover for the Brazilian in a position the Liverpool ranks are currently dangerous light in. Very strong aerially and in the tackle (WhoScored), the French powerhouse shares similar characteristics to Fabinho and would likely be viewed as the long term successor for the role.

Already boasting 17 goal involvements in just 133 domestic career outings, the £36million valued apprentice to be could even present a more well-rounded overall package than his potential Brazilian mentor.

Put simply, this is a battle for a high calibre player that FSG, newly appointed sporting director Julian Ward and Klopp himself should be pulling out all the stops to get over the line and get one over their conquerors in Paris.

In other news, Liverpool ‘willing’ to sanction £42.5million move for La Liga starlet. Find out more here

West Ham United may be one step closer to signing Watford striker Emmanuel Dennis ahead of the summer transfer window, according to journalist Daniel Moroney.

The Lowdown: Hammers plot bid…

Numerous reports have indicated that the Nigeria international is a target for manager David Moyes and the east Londoners ahead of what could be an interesting transfer window.

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Both The Daily Mirror and Football Insider claim West Ham are seriously interested in Dennis with the latter publication stating talks have already been held with the player’s agents in London.

This comes after the Hornets star shone for his relegated side in the Premier League over 2021/2022, but they are now ready to sell him.

The Latest: Moroney makes big West Ham claim…

According to Watford journalist Moroney, who writes for Off The Ball and Back Page Football, the Irons are in talks to sign Dennis with the 24-year-old and his representatives even reaching a ‘verbal agreement’ with West Ham.

He explained (via Twitter):

“Emmanuel Dennis and his representatives have reached a verbal agreement with West Ham.

“West Ham are yet to agree a fee with Watford but discussions are ongoing and an agreement is expected to be met soon.

“Watford FC still waiting for an official bid.”

The Verdict: Exciting?

While it remains to be seen whether West Ham can tie up the deal with an official bid yet to be on the table, Dennis’ allegedly agreeing to join Moyes comes as some good potential news.

The Super Eagles striker was Watford’s standout player over the season, finishing the campaign as their top goal scorer with ten and ranking in as their best all-round performer by average match rating (WhoScored).

Taking this into account, it’s little wonder members of the media called Dennis a ‘superb signing’ at Vicarage Road as it now looks likely he’ll be on the move again.

In other news: Talks held: Club chief flies to London as West Ham eye ‘incredible’ player move…find out more here.

Liverpool have been plagued with injury concerns in the final hurdle of the season ahead of their last game of the Premier League campaign and Champions League final, however, a positive new injury update has emerged from a reliable source.

What’s the latest?

According to the Liverpool reporter for The Athletic James Pearce, Joe Gomez will be fit for the Champions League final.

In an article for The Athletic, Pearce reported that Liverpool are confident that the defender will be ready and available for selection after undergoing a scan on an ankle injury sustained against Southampton earlier this week.

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The report goes on to say that the club are content that there is no serious damage and if the player recovers in the timeline expected he will be available should he be called upon against Real Madrid in 10 days time.

Liverpool fans will love it

Despite struggling for game-time this season through both injury and falling down the pecking order behind Ibrahima Konate who has had an impressive season for the Reds, Liverpool fans will surely love to see Gomez in the match-day squad in Paris.

Gomez played an integral part in the Kopite’s Premier League title win and played in the game against Tottenham Hotspur in the last Champions League win too, so although he may not be the first choice for a place in the centre-back partnership against Real Madrid, he has the necessary experience in big matches.

Another reason why it could be good to see Gomez in Paris is because he has been linked with moves away from Merseyside this summer following his lack of game time.

Newcastle United, Fulham, West Ham, Everton and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing the 24-year-old, so if he was to move on at the end of this season the Champions League final could be a great send-off for the player.

Ultimately, the positive injury update will be a relief for Jurgen Klopp who will now have his entire squad of defenders fit and available to do their part should they be called upon in the important clash with Real Madrid.

AND in other news: Approach made: Liverpool eye move for “wonderful” £50m “winner”, Klopp would love him