Darwin Nunez’s turbulent spell in Saudi Arabia appears over as reports claim Al Hilal has removed him from their registered squad following Karim Benzema’s arrival. The former Liverpool striker’s departure opens the door for a swift return to the Premier League, where several clubs monitor his situation. His lack of game time in Riyadh makes a mid-season move back to England a logical next step.

Raheem Sterling’s own Premier League exile has taken him to Feyenoord on a short-term deal, rejecting approaches from crisis-ridden Tottenham. Meanwhile, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s remarks on immigrants have reportedly unsettled parts of Manchester United’s dressing room, adding off-field pressure. Elsewhere, a sexist comment cost Barnet manager Dean Brennan a nine-game ban and £2,000 fine.

The international managerial arena sees Carlo Ancelotti poised to sign a four-year contract with Brazil, tying him to the national team until the 2030 World Cup. In other moves, Michail Antonio is in talks with Charlton after a long injury-enforced break, and Robert Lewandowski will wait until March’s Barcelona elections before deciding his future, with multiple European and Saudi offers on the table.