Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 30, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

European Transfers and Managerial Moves

AS Monaco have signed Matthis Abline from Nantes, potentially forming a new forward line with United States striker Folarin Balogun. Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly on the verge of another major transfer, with head coach Roberto De Zerbi hinting at a "blockbuster" signing. Chelsea have completed the signing of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace for £51m completed the signing, with another report stating the deal was worth £52m. Jordan Henderson has left Brentford as a free agent, paving the way for a move to Chelsea. Elsewhere, Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare has joined Ajax on a season-long loan with an option to buy. Nottingham Forest are nearing a deal for Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande close in on defender.

Newcastle United and Managerial Speculation

Eddie Howe is set to depart his role as Newcastle United head coach after five years in charge, with sources confirming his departure. German coach Matthias Jaissle is the leading candidate to replace Howe, known for his attacking style and trophy-winning record. Jaissle's coaching experience has primarily been in Austria and Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, the club's ambitious project to become "the best" by 2030 is being assessed as the fifth anniversary of their takeover approaches.

UEFA and FIFA's FIFA World Cup Proposal

UEFA is convening an emergency meeting of its 55 member nations on Thursday to discuss responses to FIFA's proposals, including the potential for a World Cup boycott. FIFA is looking to gain its first funds from the Infantino plan by October, and has offered $40m to member nations who back its controversial plan, setting a September 19 deadline for access to the funds. FIFA has also opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina for alleged breaches of regulations during the World Cup.

USMNT Coaching Situation and Player Movements

The United States Soccer Federation is nearing a decision on Mauricio Pochettino's future as head coach of the U.S. men's national team. Goalkeeper Matt Freese admitted he is still processing the team's World Cup exit after a round of 16 loss to Belgium. United States midfielder Sebastian Berhalter has joined English Championship side Middlesbrough from the Vancouver Whitecaps. Lionel Messi has returned to Inter Miami ten days after Argentina's World Cup final loss to Spain.

Women's Football and League Developments

Tottenham Hotspur are demonstrating significant ambitions in the Women's Super League through their summer transfer business. The Women's Super League fixtures for the 2026-27 season have been announced, with Manchester City beginning their title defense against newly-promoted Birmingham City. London City Lionesses will open the season against Manchester United. Spanish youth international Daniela Arques has joined London City Lionesses from Sporting, pending international clearance. WSL 2 side Newcastle United has signed Scotland forward Martha Thomas.

Other Football News and Transfer Rumors

Real Madrid are reportedly confident of securing a deal for Manchester City midfielder Rodri this summer, with other rumors suggesting Inter Milan might pursue Liverpool's Curtis Jones and Aston Villa having a bid rejected for Palmeiras forward Allan. St Mirren manager Craig McLeish faces a Scottish FA hearing and has been charged over remarks made about referee Sean Murdoch. Liverpool continued their preseason winning streak under new boss Andoni Iraola, defeating Wrexham 1-0. Liverpool's CEO discussed investment, transition, and ongoing consortium talks with FSG. Jurrien Timber has left Arsenal's training camp for a groin check related to a previous injury. Chelsea are reportedly considering a double signing of Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck, while Arsenal are pursuing Vinicius Jr.

Other Sporting Headlines

Former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming is the frontrunner to be appointed as the new head coach of the England men's Test cricket team. In tennis, Cameron Norrie reached the quarter-finals of the Los Cabos Open, while Naomi Osaka advanced in Washington. Jack Draper has received a wild card for the National Bank Open in Montreal. Teenage darts sensation Luke Littler has left the darts world questioning his dominance after winning the World Matchplay Darts. Sebastian Bialecki secured his second PDC ranking title at Players Championship 26. England dominated Tonga in a must-win Commonwealth Games match. Trent Rockets handed Welsh Fire their first defeat of the season in The Hundred. Bow Echo won the Visit Qatar Sussex Stakes with a strong late surge.