Football
Who is Jimmy Dunne, Sheffield United’s transfer target?

With Ben Brereton-Diaz and Tom Cannon already signed, Sheffield United’s latest transfer target appears to be a center-back. According to Football League World, the Blades are reportedly “eyeing a move” for QPR defender Jimmy Dunne.
Who is Jimmy Dunne, and what could he bring to Sheffield United?
Born James Gerard Dunne in Dundalk, Ireland, the 27-year-old began his football journey with St. Kevin’s Boys in his homeland.
In 2007, at the age of 10, Dunne joined Manchester United’s Belfast-based academy. After nine years, he moved to Burnley in 2016 on a free transfer, initially joining their development squad.
In July 2017, Dunne was loaned to National League side Barrow, where he made 23 appearances, 21 in the league, plus one each in the FA Cup and FA Trophy and scored two goals.
The following January, he earned a loan move to League Two side Accrington Stanley, playing 20 league games during a promotion-winning campaign before returning to Burnley.
In August 2018, Dunne moved on loan to Scottish Premiership side Hearts, where he made 12 league appearances and featured twice in the Scottish League Cup, helping the team reach the semi-finals before being recalled due to an ankle injury.
After recovering, he joined League One side Sunderland on loan in January 2019. Over 13 league matches, he contributed a goal and an assist, playing a key role in Sunderland’s journey to the League One playoff final.
Dunne’s final loan spell came at Fleetwood Town, where he made nine League One appearances and played twice in the EFL Trophy.
Senior Breakthrough
In the 2020-2021 season, Dunne returned to Burnley, making three Premier League appearances and featuring twice each in the FA Cup and EFL Cup. His Premier League debut was memorable, scoring in a 4-2 loss to Leicester City.
The following season, Dunne completed the rare feat of playing in all five tiers of English football by joining QPR in the Championship. His first season saw him establish himself with 43 total appearances, including 38 league matches, contributing three goals and an assist as QPR finished 11th.
In 2022-2023, Dunne featured in 42 matches across all competitions, scoring twice in the Championship. Despite QPR’s struggles, finishing 20th, Dunne remained a key player.
Last season, Dunne played 30 matches, scoring a crucial 92nd-minute volley from 25 yards against Birmingham City, a goal that helped QPR secure survival. He was honored with the Kiyan Prince Goal of the Season award and the Junior Hoops Player of the Year award.
However, his season was disrupted by a shoulder injury sustained in a friendly against Oxford United, which sidelined him for 11 games.
Jimmy Dunne’s mix of experience across multiple leagues, defensive reliability, and occasional goal-scoring prowess make him an intriguing prospect for Sheffield United as they look to bolster their squad.
Other Interesting stats
Dunne has clocked 2,520 minutes on the pitch this season, significantly more than Souttar’s 1,767 minutes, partly due to Souttar’s recent injury. Dunne has also featured in 28 matches compared to Souttar’s 21.
The QPR defender is outperforming his expected goals (xG) of 3.63, showcasing his finishing accuracy, and his xG far exceeds Souttar’s 0.69, highlighting Dunne’s tendency to get into scoring positions.
Dunne has created 12 chances this season, a stark contrast to Souttar’s single chance, emphasizing the former’s eagerness to contribute to attacking plays.
On the disciplinary side, Dunne has received six yellow cards, double Souttar’s tally of three, which is a concern given the Blades’ already high yellow card count. However, Souttar has also received a red card, while Dunne has avoided dismissal.
Additionally, Dunne has represented the Republic of Ireland at the U21 level, earning two appearances.
Take aways
Signing Jimmy Dunne offers the advantage of extensive experience across all five tiers of the English football pyramid, particularly in the Championship with QPR. Standing at six foot three, Dunne’s height is comparable to the towering Harry Souttar.
While stats aren’t everything, they provide valuable insights, and Dunne has outperformed Souttar in several key metrics this season. However, the contexts of their respective teams should be considered playing as a defender for QPR, a team lower in the table, requires more defensive work per 90 minutes than playing for Sheffield United.
Despite this, Dunne’s goal contributions and superior statistics suggest he could thrive even more in a team with greater possession.
Among the players linked as defensive reinforcements for the Blades, Dunne stands out as a top choice to take on the challenging role of replacing Souttar. If Sheffield United can negotiate a reasonable deal with QPR, Dunne has the potential to become one of the standout signings of the season.
Football
Will Kolo Muani Stay at Juventus or Move to the Premier League?

The future of French forward Kolo Muani is one of the most intriguing storylines heading into the summer transfer window.
Currently on loan at Juventus from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Muani has struggled to find consistent form, sparking speculation about where he’ll play next season.
With Juventus, PSG, and Premier League clubs all weighing their options, the 25-year-old’s next move remains uncertain.
Juventus’ Dilemma: To Keep or Let Go?
Juventus are in a period of transition, with both managerial and squad uncertainties shaping their summer plans.
The club’s qualification for the Champions League could play a key role in their decision-making. If they secure a top-four finish, they may push to retain Muani, but his recent dip in form has raised doubts.
As Calciomercato reports, “The Frenchman hasn’t scored for a month, he has stopped and shows no signs of recovery.”
Despite this, Juventus’ sporting director sees Muani as a “top-level profile” and is reportedly keen to secure another loan deal.
However, PSG have different plans. The French giants are looking to sell Muani outright to maximize their financial return, rather than extending his stay in Turin.
PSG’s Stance: A Sale, Not a Loan
PSG’s position is clear they want to cash in on Muani and reinvest in their squad. The club’s summer plans include a major overhaul of their attack, and Muani’s sale could help fund new signings.
As Calciomercato notes, “The ambition of the French is to immediately sell the striker and not necessarily to Juve, to whom the player was kindly loaned with a very clear aim. That of re-evaluating him and putting him on display for next summer.”
Muani’s time at Juventus has been a mixed bag. While he’s enjoyed regular playing time, he hasn’t rediscovered the form that made him one of Europe’s most promising forwards.
If he is to stay in Turin, it will likely depend on Juventus securing Champions League football and presenting a strong long-term project.
Premier League Interest: Newcastle in the Mix
The Premier League could be a viable destination for Muani, with Newcastle United emerging as a potential suitor.
The Magpies’ potential sale of Alexander Isak could create an opening for Muani to fill. As the report highlights, “Kolo Muani has a lot of market in the Premier League, above all Newcastle who can open the waltz of the strikers, with the fate of Isak yet to be discovered.”
Muani’s pace and versatility make him an attractive option for English clubs, but his inconsistent form raises questions about whether he can command a starting role at a top Premier League side.
Newcastle fans might view him as an exciting addition, but his lack of goals could be a concern, especially if Isak departs.
The debate surrounding Muani centers on whether he’s worth a long-term investment. His speed and movement offer something unique, but his recent struggles in front of goal are a red flag.
For Juventus, pairing him with a proven finisher like Victor Osimhen could be the solution, but the club may also consider a complete overhaul of their attack.
For Newcastle, Muani’s physicality and ability to stretch defences could fit well into Eddie Howe’s system.
However, fans might prefer a more established striker if Isak leaves. Ultimately, Muani’s performances in the final months of the season could determine his next destination.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Kolo Muani’s future remains up in the air. Will he stay at Juventus, return to PSG, or make a move to the Premier League?
His next destination will depend on a combination of form, finances, and the ambitions of the clubs involved. One thing is certain Muani’s transfer saga will be one to watch.
Football
Barcelona pushing for €85m-rated forward’s transfer as Deco lays the groundwork

According to a report from SPORT, Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has begun laying the groundwork for a possible move to sign Liverpool winger Luis Diaz.
The club is actively working on financial plans and calculations to determine how they can afford the transfer.
However, securing Diaz won’t be easy, as Barcelona must first generate significant funds before making an official approach.
Challenges Ahead
The estimated cost of signing the Colombian star is between €70-75 million, meaning Barcelona need to free up at least €30 million in their wage structure to make the deal viable.
To raise the necessary funds, the club is exploring various options, including player sales and percentage deals involving players not currently in the first-team setup.

Barcelona’s midfield is one area where they could consider a major sale if the right offer comes in. While the squad has plenty of midfield options, only Pedri is considered untouchable.
In defense, the club is being cautious about making changes, but the futures of Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen, and Ronald Araujo remain uncertain. Araujo, in particular, would only be allowed to leave if he personally requests a transfer.
Diaz’s Interest in Barcelona
On Diaz’s side, the player is reportedly keen on joining Barcelona. After spending four seasons in England, he is excited about the possibility of playing for the Blaugrana.
Deco has already held informal talks with Diaz’s representatives to express Barcelona’s interest.
However, due to financial restrictions under La Liga’s fair play rules, the club cannot make any formal moves at this stage.
One potential advantage for Barcelona is Diaz’s contract situation. His current deal with Liverpool runs until 2027, but by 2026, the English club’s leverage in negotiations would diminish. If Liverpool don’t sell him next summer, they risk losing out on a significant transfer fee the following year.
That said, if Barcelona fail to show serious interest, Diaz might consider extending his stay at Anfield instead.
While Barcelona are keen on bringing Diaz to Camp Nou, financial hurdles and strategic planning will play a crucial role in determining whether the transfer materializes.
Football
Pep Guardiola explains why he hauled off Man City star just 18 minutes after coming on

Manchester City missed a golden opportunity to climb back into the Premier League’s top four after being held to a 2-2 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion at the Etihad Stadium.
However, the game took an unexpected turn when Bernardo Silva, who had only been on the pitch for 18 minutes, was substituted for Phil Foden a decision that left fans and pundits scratching their heads.
Guardiola’s Cryptic Response on Silva’s Early Exit
Silva, who came on shortly before the hour mark, showed no visible signs of injury when he was withdrawn.
When asked about the sudden change, Pep Guardiola offered little clarity in his post-match interview.
“I don’t know, I didn’t speak to the doctors,” Guardiola told Match of the Day when questioned about a potential injury. “Bernardo is so strong.”

With no conclusive explanation, speculation continues regarding whether the substitution was tactical, fitness-related, or due to a minor issue unnoticed by spectators.
City Let Crucial Points Slip
Going into the match, Manchester City knew a victory would push them back into the top four. They started well, with Erling Haaland converting a penalty to give them the lead.
However, Brighton hit back through Pervis Estupiñán, leveling the score. Omar Marmoush then restored City’s advantage, only for an unfortunate Abdukodir Khusanov own goal to secure a draw for the visitors.
Despite the result, Guardiola remained positive about his team’s performance:
“It was a good game. A tight game—I know how difficult this process is. The players gave everything. We take the point and keep going.”
He also praised his squad’s effort, particularly the younger players and defenders, but admitted City fell just short of securing the win.
Brighton’s Boss Disappointed Despite Strong Performance
Brighton, aiming to complete a league double over City after their 2-1 win at the Amex in November, were left frustrated by the draw. Manager Fabian Hürzeler believed his side deserved more:
“We gave away goals in a very cheap way, and we have to improve. The fact that we came back twice and had big opportunities to win is a positive sign. We showed our identity—that’s how we want to play.”
Despite acknowledging the team’s strong display, Hürzeler was dissatisfied with the final result:
“It is very clear to me that we should have left this pitch as winners. Sometimes football is like this.”
Chelsea Benefit as City Drop Points
The draw at the Etihad Stadium ensures that Chelsea will finish the weekend in fourth place. Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest remains in third after their 4-2 win over Ipswich, meaning Arsenal’s clash with Chelsea on Sunday won’t affect their position just yet.
As City continues to navigate a competitive season, questions remain about Guardiola’s Bernardo Silva decision, but for now, their focus will be on bouncing back in their next fixture.
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