The world of football is increasingly influenced by money. Investors from the private equity sector in particular are playing a greater role in this. The takeovers of clubs such as AC Milan, Chelsea and Olympique Lyon show that these investors see football as a new market for growth. In the Cleats & Cashflows newsletter, we look at this development. We discuss the opportunities this offers clubs, but also the risks involved.

Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven has been told that a move to one of Europe’s true heavyweights is the "right step" for his career as Spurs continue to falter under Thomas Frank. Former Dutch star Eljero Elia has backed the lightning-fast defender for a high-profile transfer this summer, with Liverpool and Real Madrid both recently linked with the centre-back’s signature.

Sandro Tonali generated plenty of headlines on deadline day as the winter transfer window of 2026 came to a close, with Arsenal reported to have made a play for the Newcastle midfielder. No deal was done, but speculation continues to rage. Manchester City are said to be another of Tonali’s many suitors, and Pep Guardiola was spotted in deep conversation with the 25-year-old at the end of a Carabao Cup encounter.

Newell's Old Boys vice-president Juan Manuel Medina has announced that the club are "working on" a 2027 homecoming transfer for Lionel Messi. The Inter Miami superstar took his first steps into football at youth level with the Argentine club, who are eager to bring him back as the face of a new "project for the city of Rosario".

Former Chelsea and Atletico Madrid forward Diego Costa has revealed the components of his "perfect" striker, selecting the elite traits of modern legends like Lionel Messi and Harry Kane. The veteran goalscorer also didn't shy away from self-praise, naming himself as the ultimate choice when it comes to the crucial attribute of player mentality.

The LA Galaxy are reportedly 'exploring' a free transfer swoop for Manchester United midfielder Casemiro. The Brazil international, who is enjoying a resurgence under Red Devils interim manager Michael Carrick, has confirmed he will leave Old Trafford upon the expiration of his contract in June, and has also been linked with a lucrative switch to Saudi Arabia.

Atletico Madrid are ready to test Tottenham’s resolve for Cristian Romero this summer after the Spurs captain’s relationship with the club hit a new low. The Argentine World Cup winner slammed the board’s transfer inactivity as ‘disgraceful’ on social media, prompting Diego Simeone’s side to revive their interest just months after Romero signed a lucrative new contract in London.

GOAL takes a look at the biggest transfer news and rumours from around the world.

Newcastle United CEO David Hopkinson has admitted he has 'no idea' whether or not Arsenal were presented with the chance to sign Sandro Tonali by the midfielder's agent. Reports emerged on deadline day that Tonali was being monitored by the Gunners, with his representatives supposedly indicating to the Premier League leaders that a move could be negotiated.

Wearing the USWNT armband for the first time, Trinity Rodman discusses how she views leadership after captaining the U.S. vs Paraguay.

Chelsea's 2024-25 Women's Super League season was an all-timer. Undefeated through 22 games - the first team ever to achieve that in the competition's history - while also registering a record points return of 60, the Blues ascended to unprecedented levels of dominance in their first year under new head coach Sonia Bompastor. What has gone wrong, then, that means the six-time defending champions are on the brink of relinquishing their crown less than a year later?

Arsenal have been given some extremely positive news after goalkeeper Anneke Borbe was discharged from hospital following a nasty looking head injury in Sunday's FIFA Women's Champions Cup triumph over Corinthians. There was serious concern for the 25-year-old but it appears her situation may not be as bad as first feared.