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The top stories and transfer rumours from Thursday's newspapers...

DAILY TELEGRAPH

Erik ten Hag is likely to be offered a two-year extension to his current deal at Manchester United.

Manchester United are sticking to their valuation of around £3m for Dan Ashworth and are refusing to be held to ransom over Newcastle's compensation demands for their sporting director.

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A-Cap, a financial group inextricably linked to failed Everton buyers 777 Partners, is being considered by owner Farhad Moshiri as a serious takeover contender despite apparent pressure from US authorities to cut its exposure to them.

THE GUARDIAN

Chelsea are considering a shift in their position over selling Conor Gallagher and could make a concerted effort to agree a new deal with the midfielder.

The US swimmer Lia Thomas, who rose to global prominence after becoming the first transgender athlete to win a NCAA college title in March 2022, has lost a legal case against World Aquatics at the court of arbitration for sport - and with it any hopes of making next month's Paris Olympics.

The next edition of the Africa Cup of Nations could kick off before Christmas to try and fit in with the new Club World Cup, potentially leaving Premier League clubs without a host of stars during the busy festive period.

THE ATHLETIC

AC Milan have reportedly made contact with Aston Villa over the potential signing of full-back Matty Cash.

Aston Villa are in talks to terminate attacking midfielder Philippe Coutinho's contract.

Manchester United held a series of interviews with potential replacements for Erik ten Hag before the FA Cup final win over Manchester City.

Shocked Manchester United players thought Erik ten Hag would be sacked before finding out the manager is staying.

DAILY MAIL

Man United managerial candidates were left 'astounded by low wages' and 'unimpressed by the club's transfer budget' before decision was made to keep Erik ten Hag.

Max Kilman is reportedly a renewed target for West Ham with Julen Lopetegui keen to link up with the centre-back he made captain at Wolves.

Dan Ashworth reportedly had a meeting with Wolves after being placed on gardening leaving by Newcastle without informing his employers.

Real Madrid have enquired over the possibility of signing Cristian Romero, according to a report.

Erik ten Hag will only have £50m to spend this summer unless Manchester United are able to secure significant fees for players deemed surplus to requirements. His priorities will be to add a central defender and another striker.

Prize money for this year's Wimbledon Championships will rise by around 10 per cent, with first-round losers to be guaranteed more than £60,000.

THE i

A group of furious Queen's Club members are preparing legal action to block a women's tournament from being held at the club in 2025.

EVENING STANDARD

Fulham are reportedly keen on Luton centre-back Teden Mengi and plan to sign at least two defenders this summer.

The opportunity to join the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea represented "great temptation" for Benjamin Sesko, according to his agent.

The prospect of moving to Liverpool or Manchester United will be put to the back of Atalanta midfielder Ederson's mind for the first weeks of the transfer window.

THE SUN

Manchester United face fresh competition for the signature of long-term goalkeeper target Zion Suzuki, who may finally be ready to move to Old Trafford.

Erik Ten Hag allegedly had a secret row with Luke Shaw and used Al Pacino to help him save his Manchester United job.

Ivan Toney is ready to get a celebratory tattoo of the European Championship trophy on his head should England win the tournament in Germany.

Erik ten Hag will play hardball in contract negotiations with Manchester United after feeling slighted by their public courtship of potential candidates to replace him.

Serbia fans are expected to boo England's national anthem in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday because of NATO bombings of the former Yugoslavia during the Kosovo war in 1999.

The World Leagues Association and FIFPRO believe FIFA will have to perform a U-turn on plans for a revamped Club World Cup once legal papers are lodged.

Everton defender Ben Godfrey could leave the club for free next summer after turning down a series of contract offers - AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund have already shown interest.

Jose Mourinho is lining up an £8m move for Luton Town striker Elijah Adebayo as he builds his Fenerbahce squad.

Middlesbrough have agreed a £3.1m deal to sign midfielder Aidan Morris from MLS side Columbus Crew.

THE TIMES

Ian Maatsen's parents drove his boots to Germany after his late call-up to the Netherlands squad.

Erik ten Hag's first pieces of business when he returns from holiday will be to tell Manchester United to sell Jadon Sancho and get his priority summer signings in the building quickly.

Tottenham are seeking £21m for defender Emerson Royal, who is a target for AC Milan, and are waiting for Atletico Madrid to make an offer for midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.

Euro 2024 will not use the same stoppage-time rules enforced by FIFA and the Premier League which have regularly led to games going beyond 100 minutes.

Australia could risk a two-match ban for captain Mitchell Marsh if they manipulate the outcome of their World T20 clash with Scotland to knock out holders England, who need a massive net run-rate turnaround.

DAILY MIRROR

Tour de France winner Bradley Wiggins could lose his Olympic gold medals after being declared bankrupt.

Arsenal have made contact with Napoli striker Victor Osimhen's representatives, according to reports in Italy.

Juventus are preparing an offer to Arsenal for defender Jakob Kiwior, who new boss Thiago Motta sees as a priority signing.

The Football Association has drawn up a succession plan for life after England head coach Gareth Southgate which opens up the possibility of appointing another foreign manager.

Wayne Rooney does not believe Trent Alexander-Arnold has the discipline to be an international central midfielder.

Birmingham City have increased prices for their corporate hospitality areas by more than 60 per cent despite the club being relegated to League One.

DAILY RECORD

Rangers will have to pay more than the £500,000 plus training compensation to Aberdeen or take a gamble on a tribunal if they want to sign Connor Barron.

Connor Barron would be a good signing for Philippe Clement and Rangers, according to former Celtic star Simon Donnelly.

Michael Beale has been linked with a shock move to Israeli Premier League club Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Erik Ten Hag is set to stay at Manchester United after the club finalised their end-of-season review. But what happens now?

United finished a disappointing eighth, their worst finish in the Premier League era, and despite beating rivals Manchester City to lift the FA Cup and Ten Hag's second trophy in as many years, speculation was still rife over the Dutchman's future after INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe took over the club's football operations in February.

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But United have now confirmed that Ten Hag will be staying on as their manager and the 54-year-old is now in talks with the club over an improved contract.

To explain how United came to this decision, Sky Sports News chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol goes through all the details.

How close was Ten Hag to losing his job?

Solhekol: Ten Hag was aware that it was touch and go as to whether he kept his job or not.

Man Utd had their post-season review and they did explore all options. Ten Hag won the FA Cup at the end of the season, against the backdrop of lots of reports that he was going to lose his job. No sooner are the celebrations over after losing the FA Cup, United are contacting other managers - either directly or through their representatives.

It has obviously been well-documented that they looked at other managers like Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino and Thomas Frank.

There were widespread reports in the UK and Germany that Tuchel met Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco last week. We know there has been contact with representatives of Pochettino. Hiring Gareth Southgate is impossible as he is managing England at the Euros.

United were exploring all eventualities, but ultimately, they decided they would stick with Ten Hag.

Although it can't have been a particularly nice experience for Ten Hag to have had this after winning the FA Cup, he's been in football a long time and knows how these things work.

Why did Man Utd speak to other managers?

Solhekol: United were very clear that they were having a post-season review and that the review was going to look at the manager's position.

When Ratcliffe and INEOS came in, they invested in the business and it was their right to look at all areas of the business.

Ten Hag was someone they inherited as a manager and you could argue they were doing what every owner would do when coming into a club by looking at all facets of the business.

How important was the FA Cup win for Ten Hag's future?

Solhekol: You can certainly make the case that if Man Utd hadn't won the FA Cup then Ten Hag would have lost his job.

But you can also make the case that if it wasn't for Haji Wright being offside in the semi-final against Coventry, he also would have lost his job.

It's a game of fine margins but in a post-season review, having the FA Cup and European football from that, it makes a decent case for him to stay. Without those things it's a difficult case to make for him to stay in the job.

Has his relationship with the younger players in the squad made a difference?

Solhekol: INEOS have been impressed with the way Ten Hag has handled the development of Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho.

INEOS do now want to go in a different direction at Man Utd and the days of spending £80m on one player is over.

They want to sign young players and Ten Hag has proven that he is the right man for those players.

That is definitely one of the reasons why they have stuck with him.

Why is Ten Hag getting a new contract?

Solhekol: The complication is he's only got one year left on his contract. When you're a manager of the stature of Erik ten Hag, someone who has had a lot of success in the game, you need more security than that. He will want more certainty going forward.

This summer, if he had left United, he could have managed Ajax again and he could have managed Bayern Munich. If he had done that, he would have got the security of a three or four-year contract.

It doesn't help Man Utd or Ten Hag if you are going into a new season with the clock ticking on the manager's future. You want to avoid any more speculation about his future. If there's no new deal, United are just kicking the managerial decision down the road.

It's not good enough for United to have a review and say 'we've explored all eventualities and you'll do for the time being'. Ten Hag deserves more than that. He needs to be backed fully.

That means giving him a contract and the security of a three or four-year deal and that will send a message out to the fans, to the wider community and to the United squad that Ten Hag is here to stay, he's the owners' man and he is the one who calls the shots.

It's also an important decision for transfers at Man Utd. Players coming in will want to know what's going on and they will want security that a manager will not just be off after only a few months of the season.

Even with a new contract, how patient will Man Utd be with Ten Hag now?

Solhekol: If he gets his new deal, Ten Hag will have no excuses. Because Sir Jim Ratcliffe will say he is now calling the shots in the club's football operations.

With a new chief executive, a new sporting director and a new technical director, everything is in place for Ten Hag to be successful. No excuses.

Obviously, United still need to work on their training ground and do up Old Trafford as well. But plans are in place to do that.

INEOS are now committed to this project.

Ten Hag has been true to his word. He's said all along he's had a good working relationship with INEOS and now we are getting a clear indication that they want to work with him long-term as well.

The only issue has been the way this has been conducted. There will be people who say that if INEOS loved Ten Hag so much, why were they talking to other managers? However, in this day and age, it might not be the right thing to do to speak to other managers in football terms, but it is the right thing to do in business.

INEOS have come in and made a lot of changes already at Man Utd and there will be more, but they think Ten Hag is the right man to coach the team. But I do not think he is as powerful as he was before INEOS arrived.

Ten Hag will be happy that he is keeping his job, but I don't think it is a massive cause for celebration for him because I'm sure he thinks it should have been dealt with much quicker and that his position wouldn't have been under so much scrutiny for so long.

A pivotal summer coming up for Ten Hag and Man Utd

Solhekol: It is a massive summer for Man Utd.

It's not just about players coming in either. It's also about players going out the door.

Ten Hag has said he wants another centre-back, he wants another central midfielder and he wants another striker.

There's also the Jadon Sancho situation which has to be dealt with. You'd think that with Ten Hag staying it makes it much more likely that Sancho will leave Old Trafford, unless there's some sort of twist and peace talks with everybody making up.

But in terms of transfers, I don't think Ten Hag will have the sort of control and influence that he previously had because of the new structure that has been put in place at United.

There's also still a lot of uncertainty around the club with new chief executive Omar Berrada not starting yet, Dan Ashworth is embroiled in a legal dispute with Newcastle United and the transfer window will be open on Friday.

Erik ten Hag will stay on as Manchester United manager.

United and Ten Hag are said to be aligned after the club's end-of-season review, a process which lasted longer than two weeks and saw other managers sounded out for the role.

However, the conclusion from the review was that Ten Hag should remain in charge, and negotiations have begun over a contract extension for the Dutchman.

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Ten Hag's current contract ends at the end of next season, with the club having the option of extending it by a further 12 months.

United finished a disappointing eighth, their worst finish in the Premier League era, but beat rivals Manchester City to lift the FA Cup - Ten Hag's second trophy in as many years.

Ten Hag had to contend with an injury-ravaged squad throughout the season but managed to salvage Europa League qualification with the victory over City at Wembley.

The review concluded that Ten Hag deserves a chance to show what more he is capable of within the new sporting structure implemented following Sir Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS taking charge of football operations.

Which managers were sounded out by Man Utd?

Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel, Thomas Frank, Kieran McKenna and Gareth Southgate were all linked with taking over at Old Trafford but the club have now committed to Ten Hag.

Tuchel, Southgate and McKenna were sounded out during the review, which is said to have been more thorough than usual because of the new ownership structure. The process is expected to be similar in future.

Ratcliffe's INEOS has taken control of the club's footballing operations since becoming a minority shareholder in February and has overseen major staff changes.

Jason Wilcox has begun work as technical director, while Omar Berrada will start as the new chief executive this summer.

Why did Man Utd decide to stick with Ten Hag?

United's review recognised the significant achievement of winning two trophies in two seasons - particularly the quality of the FA Cup win against City.

Ten Hag's dedication is said to be admired by decision-makers at United, as well as the dignity and professionalism with which he has conducted himself.

The emergence of academy products Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo under Ten Hag and his work developing them were among the other factors considered by United.

The review also took into account mitigating factors - not least the injuries Ten Hag's players have suffered and the number of problems concentrated in key positions.

United also believe new signings, notably Rasmus Hojlund and Andre Onana, need time to bed in, while Mason Mount spent most of last season sidelined through injury.

'Man Utd spoke to other managers - but Ten Hag could now receive new deal'

Sky Sports News reporter Dharmesh Sheth:

"Remember, he did maintain through all of his talks with Sir Jim Ratcliffe that he believed he would be the man to lead Manchester United forward, that he was under contract until next summer at least and he had no reason to believe he wasn't going to be the manager.

"Manchester United have been conducting their post-season review after that FA Cup final victory over Manchester City.

"After that review of the last season and first-team operations, the club and Erik ten Hag held constructive discussions about what happened over the past season and what could happen in the future.

"Manchester United considered all eventualities. They did speak to other managers and representatives of other managers - Thomas Tuchel, Kieran McKenna and Mauricio Pochettino. But the conclusion after that review and all of those talks was that Ten Hag would remain as manager.

"The club and Ten Hag are believed to be aligned and have now entered negotiations over a contract extension. This is really significant. He's got one year left on his contract."

Why is Ten Hag getting a new deal at Man Utd?

Sky Sports News chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol:

"It's a pleasant surprise for Erik ten Hag, he always knew it was touch and go whether he was going to keep his job at Old Trafford. He has been on holiday in Spain waiting patiently for contact from United, and they did contact him and told him the review was over and they wanted to stick with him.

"The complication is he's only got one year left on his contract. When you're a manager of the stature of Erik ten Hag, you need more security than that. This summer, if he had left United, he could have managed Ajax again and he could have managed Bayern Munich. If he had done that, he would have got the security of a three or four-year contract.

"So the really interesting development is that United are now holding talks with him to extend his contract.

"It's not good enough for United to have a review and say 'we've explored all eventualities and you'll do for the time being'. Ten Hag deserves more than that. He needs to be backed fully. That means giving him a contract and the security of a three or four year deal and that will send a message out to the fans, to the wider community and to the United squad that Ten Hag is here to stay, he's the owners' man and he is the one who calls the shots.

"If he gets his new deal, Ten Hag will have no excuses. Because Sir Jim Ratcliffe will say he is now calling the shots in the club's football operations.

"With a new chief executive, a new sporting director, a new technical director, everything is in place for Ten Hag to be successful. No excuses.

"Obviously, United still need to work on their training ground and do up Old Trafford as well. But plans are in place to do that."

Joshua Zirkzee is emerging as one of Manchester United's primary transfer targets this summer.

United have made their interest clear in signing the Bologna striker.

The 23-year-old has a £34m release clause in his contract and is one of several strikers United are doing due diligence on ahead of the transfer window opening on Friday.

Fulham set Joao Palhinha valuation with Man Utd interested

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Arsenal and AC Milan remain interested in Zirkzee, who has two years left on his contract.

Arsenal want to bring in a young striker they can develop, having turned their attention away from players such as Newcastle's Alexander Isak and Brentford's Ivan Toney.

Sky in Italy are reporting that Milan are still pushing to sign the 23-year-old after flying to London for talks. Nothing was agreed but they remain in contact with his representatives.

Juventus are also keen on Zirkzee but are currently working on other targets, and they would need to sell a striker to bring one in.

Why is Zirkzee in demand?

Zirkzee graduated through Bayern Munich's system and had spells with Parma and Anderlecht before joining Bologna in the summer of 2022.

The forward received limited game time in his first campaign in Serie A, scoring only two league goals from 808 minutes.

This term, he scored 11 league goals and the shot map below suggests he is most lethal from the left-of-centre region.

The heat map below also shows how the forward typically plays deeper than a conventional striker.

He also ranks among the top five players in Serie A for creating big chances, attempting dribbles and regaining possession in the final third.

Indeed, the radar graphic below reveals he ranks among the top five per cent across Europe in those three metrics.

Fulham set Palhinha valuation with Man Utd interested

Fulham value Joao Palhinha at double the £30m bid they have rejected from Bayern Munich.

Barcelona and Manchester United are also interested, but it is unlikely the Spanish side would be able to afford him and there is uncertainty surrounding the managerial situation at Old Trafford.

There is no release clause in the new Fulham contract Palhinha signed last September. The deal runs to 2028 and Fulham have the option to extend it by another year.

Read more here...

When does the summer transfer window open and close?

The 2024 summer transfer window in the Premier League officially opens on Friday June 14 - the same day that Euro 2024 starts.

The window will close on August 30 at 11pm UK time in England and at midnight in Scotland.

The Premier League has brought forward Deadline Day to link up with the other major leagues in Europe. The closing dates were set following discussions with the leagues in England, Germany, Italy, Spain and France.

The latest news and gossip in brief from Tottenham...

Kevin Campbell has died aged 54, his former club Arsenal have confirmed.

Campbell played up front for clubs including Arsenal, Nottingham Forest and Everton, scoring 148 goals in 542 club games across an almost 20-year career at the top.

An Everton statement added: "Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the death of our former striker Kevin Campbell at the age of just 54. Not just a true Goodison Park hero and icon of the English game, but an incredible person as well - as anyone who ever met him will know. RIP, Super Kev."

After hanging up his boots in May 2007, Campbell went on to enjoy a successful media career working for, among others, Sky Sports.

Sky Sports News paid tribute to Campbell: "Kevin Campbell was a superb striker and a fans favourite everywhere he played. Latterly, he was a genuine friend and colleague to everyone at Sky Sports News where he brought tremendous warmth and energy to his insights and punditry.

"Kevin and his dickie bows every Thursday on The Football Show will remain in our fondest of memories. Our thoughts are with his family and friends and all those football fans who loved him."

The Lambeth-born forward began his career with Arsenal, who he made his debut for in May 1988, going on to win the First Division title (1990-91), FA Cup and League Cup (1992-93) and the European Cup Winners' Cup (1993-94) with the north London club.

Campbell - whose son Tyrese played for Stoke City between 2018 and 2024 - scored 60 goals in 224 appearances for George Graham's Gunners side, before joining Forest in the summer of 1995, while he also spent the 1998-99 season at Trabzonspor.

However, his time in Turkey was short-lived, with Everton initially bringing him back to the Premier League on loan in March 1999 to aid their relegation battle.

And Campbell's impressive return of nine goals in eight league outings saved the club from the drop, while also earning him a permanent £3m move to Goodison Park that summer.

The striker ended his seven-year stay on Merseyside as the Toffees' fifth-highest Premier League goal scorer, including famously netting the winner against Liverpool at Anfield in 1999.

Campbell also played for both West Bromwich Albion (2005-06) - helping to keep the Baggies in the Premier League that campaign - and Cardiff City (2006-07), while he also scored one goal in four England U21 appearances between 1990 and 1992.

Campbell has been described as "my idol" and a "one in a million person" by son Tyrese after his death at the age of 54.

The former Arsenal and Everton striker, a title and FA Cup winner with the Gunners and a hero at Goodison Park after saving the Toffees from relegation in 1999, died after a short illness.

"I appreciate my dad was admired by many and the outpouring of love has been some comfort as a family, so thank you for that at such a difficult time," former Stoke striker Tyrese said in a message released on his behalf by journalist Alan Myers.

"The pain of this is indescribable and as a son you look at your dad as invincible. He is my idol, the one I wanted to be when I grew up.

"He was the life and soul of every party and room he blessed, a one in a million person that was loved by everyone, a special, special person. I'll miss you dad.

"I would now ask that the privacy of our family is respected as we mourn the loss of an irreplaceable father, brother, uncle and all round amazing human being. Love you always dad."

Former England captain and Everton teammate Wayne Rooney wrote on X: "Absolutely devastated to hear the news about Kev.

"Thinking of all his family and friends. Kev was a great team-mate but more importantly a brilliant person who helped me a lot in my earlier years."

A Premier League statement said: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Campbell, the former Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, Everton and West Brom striker.

"Our thoughts and condolences are with Kevin's family, friends and those associated with the clubs he played for."

'He always had a smile on his face' - Former team-mate Smith remembers Campbell

Former Arsenal team-mate Alan Smith pays heartfelt tribute to Campbell on Sky Sports News:

"It's devastating. We knew Kevin was seriously ill but we hoped he could fight his way through it because he was a fighter.

"I've spoken to a lot of his team-mates and all the boys are absolutely heartbroken. A sad, sad day.

"He'd come across from the youth team at Arsenal to train with the first team sometimes because he was clearly a lad with potential. He was a big lad even then as a teenager and he was so strong. I always remember the likes of Steve Bould and Tony Adams always having to work hard when Kev came across. He had that enthusiasm and he obviously wanted to make a mark to get into that first-team squad permanently.

"He also had a lovely way about him as well. He always had a smile on his face, and he had a really positive attitude. It's not surprising that he went on to forge such a successful career.

"He came of age in the 1990/91 season. He came into the team and scored some important goals. I played up front with him and he was a wonderful strike partner to have. He was a hard worker and popular with all his team-mates.

"Off the pitch, you see the photos of that big smiley personality. He was warm-hearted. He was a south London boy made good and he appreciated it. He never took it for granted to be where he was."

'Campbell a special man'

Sky Sports News' Alan Myers:

"The first time I met him, and I was press officer at Everton at the time, he'd come from Trabzonspor on loan. Everton were in a bit of a mess at the bottom of the table, and he came into the dressing room, and you felt the whole place lift.

"His personality was such that you couldn't help but be affected by him, his positivity and the special way he lifted people.

"Kevin bought into Everton straight away. He loved an underdog and was always ready to fight. That was his strength because he would always stick up for the underdog, and you don't forget those things when people support you.

"He was such a fighter. Right up until the end he was such a fighter. He would never give up. He was such a special man.

"In football, not many people stay in touch. One thing about Kevin was he'd never lose touch with you. I left Everton in 2001 and he gave me his Everton captain's armband, which I still have today, and he wrote a message on the back of it. Little touches like that were so vital.

"The players loved him. He was such a team player and that was the fascination from the point of view of the fans. If you spoke to any Everton fan, or any fans of any of his teams, you'd get the sense of the character of the guy.

"He was a big man in every sense. He was big in physique, big in character, in personality, but most of all, he was big in heart. That's how I will remember him."

'Adored by everyone' - The football world pays tribute to Campbell...

Ange Postecoglou is approaching a year in charge at Tottenham; Sky Sports analyses whether his first season has been a success; listen to the latest Essential Questions podcast Has Anges first year at Spurs been a success? on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

The summer transfer window is open but what does every Premier League team need? Sky Sports statistician Paul Harrison dives into the data to find out...

Arsenal

Few flaws can be found in a team who have finished runners-up to Manchester City in successive seasons. However not a single Arsenal player has surpassed 16 Premier League goals in four campaigns.

This season, Kai Havertz's return of nine goals in his final 14 league appearances this season was promising, but Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus failed to reach double figures between them from a combined 54 league appearances, with neither finding the net after January.

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Aston Villa

Aston Villa will compete in Europe's elite competition next season for the first time since 1982/83 when they were reigning European champions.

Their defensive record will surely need improvement to reach such heights again. They started and ended the season conceding five goals at Newcastle and Crystal Palace, while no team has conceded more Premier League goals when qualifying for the Champions League.

Only Norwich - who finished third in the inaugural Premier League campaign - have ever finished in the top four and conceded more goals.

Bournemouth

Bournemouth won a club-record 48 Premier League points this season. After a slow start under Andoni Iraola, the Cherries took 42 points from their final 27 league games - a total bettered only by the top four and Chelsea.

Next season's success could depend on retaining top scorer Dominic Solanke as much as any potential incomings. The former Liverpool and Chelsea forward featured in all 38 league games this season - the only Bournemouth player to do so.

Not only were his 19 league goals more than twice as many as any team-mate, but, without them, Bournemouth would have finished 17th in the table - only six points clear of relegation.

Brentford

This season was Brentford's lowest finish (16th) and points total of their three Premier League campaigns (39) - they won just five of their final 24 league games.

For the first half of the season, they caught a glimpse of life without talisman Ivan Toney - something likely to become a permanent feature this summer with only one year left on his contract.

Thomas Frank has acted fast with the signing of Brazilian striker Igor Thiago being confirmed in February. Only Kevin Denkey scored more league goals in Belgium's top tier this season than Thiago, whose conversion rate was nearly three times that of his potential predecessor.

Brighton

Roberto De Zerbi's departure maintains the club's customary seasonal churn within its ranks.

Over the past two years, Brighton have seen key players Marc Cucurella, Yves Bissouma, Leandro Trossard, Alexis Mac Allister and Moises Caicedo depart for significant fees, with Graham Potter following suit in September 2022.

The constant changes have been reflected on the pitch: they made 36 more changes to their starting XI than any other team in the division - only one behind the Premier League record.

Stability and consistency next season could be as important as any new signing. The Seagulls are close to finalising a deal to appoint 31-year-old St Pauli boss Fabian Hurzeler as their new head coach, according to Sky in Germany.

Chelsea

Chelsea showed signs of progress in the final three months - losing only one of their final 15 league games - but their young squad would benefit from an injection of experience if the top four is a realistic aim.

Thiago Silva, now 39 years of age, followed Mauricio Pochettino out of the club at the end of June. The Blues had the youngest average starting XI in the division this season - despite the Brazilian starting 27 games. Replacing him will be key: they conceded eight more goals than any previous Premier League campaign.

Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace had lost 10 of their previous 17 league games when Oliver Glasner was appointed in February. Following his first game in charge, only Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea won more points.

This transformation was primarily due to the remarkable form of Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze and Jean-Philippe Mateta, who scored a combined 23 league goals in 13 games under the Austrian.

Keeping hold of their attacking trio - and keeping Olise fit - could be the Eagles' best business this summer.

Everton

Without the eight-point deduction, Sean Dyche's team would have finished within touching distance of the top half - winning four of their final six league games.

However, their reliance on set-piece goals will need addressing if a fourth successive relegation dogfight is to be avoided.

The Toffees scored five fewer open-play goals than rock-bottom Sheffield United and easing the burden on Dwight McNeil as their only natural, creative outlet should be a priority.

Fulham

Fulham's hopes of European football disappeared with just two wins in their final nine Premier League games. The Cottagers' late-season slump could be attributed to having the oldest starting XI in the division and using the joint-fewest number of players.

Some younger legs and depth would not go amiss if Fulham were to push for a return to the top half next season.

Ipswich

Successive promotions from League One to the Premier League means expectations at Portman Road are likely to be realistic next season: only six members of their current squad have played previously in England's top tier.

A key issue for Luton this season was the lack of experience at this level, something Kieran McKenna would be wise to address this summer.

Leicester

The Foxes' surprise relegation in 2022/23 was primarily due to their defensive issues. At the other end of the pitch, their 51 league goals matched seventh-placed Aston Villa.

However, their top two scorers that season - Harvey Barnes and James Maddison - departed last summer and the third top scorer, Kelechi Iheanacho, is out of contract this summer.

The burden will be on Jamie Vardy, but, at 37, and after struggling in the Premier League last time out, a guaranteed goalscorer seems a must as Leicester boasted the best defence in the Championship this season.

Liverpool

A summer rebuild was already touted at Anfield before Jurgen Klopp's departure after a trophy-laden eight years at Liverpool.

After a midfield shake-up last summer, the focus is likely to be on defensive reinforcement: Virgil van Dijk's future remains uncertain, Joel Matip's contract has expired, Trent Alexander-Arnold is entering the final 12 months of his current deal and Andy Robertson's injury issues remain a concern.

Their defensive stats this season are noticeably worse than in recent years.

Man City

After winning an unprecedented fourth successive top-flight English league title, Manchester City will be hard-pressed to find any major flaws ahead of the summer.

With Kalvin Phillips expected to depart after two underwhelming seasons, a deputy for the influential Rodri could be a priority: all three of City's league defeats came when the Spaniard was suspended this season.

Man Utd

Manchester United's inevitable summer of upheaval could see additions in all areas of the pitch - they have struggled both defensively and offensively.

The departure of the experienced Raphael Varane will leave the club light at the back, especially with Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw's ongoing injury concerns.

They used 14 different centre-back partnerships this season and veteran Jonny Evans clocked more league appearances than any other centre-back at the club. So, a keen eye will be cast over a defence that conceded a Premier League club-record 58 goals this term.

Newcastle

Balancing expectations and Europe was always going to be a challenge for Eddie Howe's side this season. They conceded nearly twice as many league goals this campaign (62) compared to 2022/23 (33), when they had the joint-best defence in the division.

Both full-back positions have been problematic of late and freshening up the backline seems likely - especially if they can retain the services of Bruno Guimaraes and Alexander Isak. The Magpies were among the first out of the traps this summer, signing Bournemouth centre-back Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer.

Nottingham Forest

Nuno Santo Espirito's impressive defensive record at Wolves helped persuade Nottingham Forest to appoint him mid-season after axing Steve Cooper. He appeared unconvinced about his goalkeeper options and signed Matz Sels in January.

The Belgian has struggled since joining Forest, with only team-mate Odysseas Vlachodimos and Brighton's Jason Steele registering lower save ratios this season.

A consistent presence between the sticks would help complement an attack that began to gel on the home stretch.

Southampton

Southampton failed to score in only five Championship games this season - the best record in the division.

The Saints often depended on their potent attack to bail out a defence that ranked midtable for goals conceded and clean sheets. Experience and quality at the back are imperative to avoid a second relegation in three seasons.

Tottenham

Another false dawn at Tottenham, who were top of the table and unbeaten after 10 Premier League games under Ange Postecoglou.

Their capitulation in the 4-1 home defeat against Chelsea in November became the norm as the season progressed. Their defensive stats in the final 28 games resembled a team in a relegation battle.

Better midfield protection and competent defensive depth are required - if they are to stand any chance of fighting for a top-four finish next term.

West Ham

With Lucas Paqueta potentially facing a multi-year ban for alleged breaches of betting rules, replacing the Brazil international's creative qualities would be essential.

Paqueta made six times as many through-balls as any team-mate this season and was comfortably their most potent creator from open play.

Only the three relegated teams conceded more goals than West Ham this term, and Paqueta's skillset was one of the key factors behind their ninth-placed finish.

The Hammers have already snapped up a potential creator in 18-year-old winger Luis Guilherme, signed from Palmeiras for £25m.

Wolves

A steady but unspectacular debut season for Gary O'Neil ended in disappointment: his team won just one of their final 10 league games.

Goals were rarely an issue for a team boasting the talents of Pedro Neto, Matheus Cunha and Hee-Chan Hwang, but a defence that kept just one clean sheet in their final 17 games will need work if they are to arrest their poor form when the new season arrives.

Wolves have already signed versatile Braga right-back Rodrigo Gomes, who can play as a wing-back or winger, in a £12.7m deal.

When does the summer transfer window open and close?

The 2024 summer transfer window in Premier League officially opens on Friday June 14 - the same day that Euro 2024 starts.

The window will close on August 30 at 11pm UK time.

The Premier League has brought forward Deadline Day to link up with the other major leagues in Europe. The closing dates were set following discussions with the leagues in England, Germany, Italy, Spain and France.

Already looking forward to the 2024/25 Premier League season?

The fresh term will kick off just 90 days after the conclusion of the 2023/24 campaign, with new teams, kits and players, as well as rivalries restored.

From the big fixture announcement to international breaks, here's all you need to know.

Stream the Premier League with NOW | Get Sky Sports

Transfer Centre LIVE!

Premier League pre-season friendlies 2024

New Premier League kits for 2024/25

Get Sky Sports | Download the Sky Sports app

When are the 2024/25 Premier League fixtures released?

The Premier League fixtures - all 380 of them - will be released at 9am on Tuesday June 18.

Last year, Sky Sports confirmed its opening weekend picks for live coverage at the same time.

Dates and kick-off times for all Premier League fixtures are subject to change.

When does the 2024/25 Premier League season start?

The 2024/25 Premier League season will start on the weekend on August 17/18.

The campaign will run over 33 weekends, four midweek rounds and one Bank Holiday matchweek.

The Premier League has said that, in a bid to address the "congested schedule across Christmas and New Year," more rest time will be given to sides over three of the festive match rounds, with no club playing within 60 hours of another match.

Unlike in 2023 when Wolves hosted Chelsea on Christmas Eve, there will be no fixture on December 24, 2024.

When does the Premier League season end?

The final round of games will be played on Sunday May 25, 2025. All matches will kick-off at the same time.

Which teams are new to top flight for 2024/25?

Leicester City sealed promotion back to the Premier League from the Championship at the first time of asking.

Kieran McKenna guided Ipswich Town back to the top flight after 22 years away.

The line-up for the 2024/25 season was completed after the Championship play-off final, won by Southampton.

Sheffield United, Burnley and Luton - all three promoted sides in 2022/23 - were relegated straight back to the second tier.

When does the summer transfer window open and close?

The 2024 summer transfer window in Premier League officially opens on Friday June 14 - the same day that Euro 2024 starts.

The window will close on Friday August 30 at 11pm UK time.

The Premier League has brought forward Deadline Day to link up with the other major leagues in Europe. The closing dates were set following discussions with the leagues in England, Germany, Italy, Spain and France.

Is there a winter break this season?

The mid-season break has also been removed from the calendar to allow a mid-August start date for the Premier League.

According to the FIFA men's international match calendar, international breaks are scheduled for September 1-9, October 6-14 and November 10-18, 2024 for England's fresh Nations League campaign.

Another international break takes place from March 23-31, 2025 as 2026 World Cup qualifying begins.

The FA Cup third round will take place on the weekend of January 10-11, with the final to be played on Saturday May 17.

Live Premier League on Sky Sports in 2024/25

Sky Sports will show 128 games exclusively live in the 2024/25 season - and a brand new agreement between Sky Sports and the Premier League means even more live matches from 2025/26.

From 2025, Sky Sports will broadcast a record minimum of 215 Premier League matches a season after finalising a new four-year agreement.

Throughout the 2024/25 season, you can watch Premier League match highlights for free - without being a Sky Sports subscriber.

You'll find highlights from every Premier League game in the Score Centre, as well as on the Sky Sports website and Sky Sports app shortly after full-time, or from 5.15pm for midday Saturday kick-offs. You can also watch them on the Sky Sports Football YouTube channel.

You can stream Sky Sports live with no contract on a Month or Day membership on NOW - find out more about instant access to live action from the Premier League, EFL, F1, England cricket and much more.

Sky Sports+ - more sport, launching in August!

Sky Sports+ will give more choice to sports fans via live streams and a new dedicated channel, at no extra cost.

Launching this August, Sky Sports+ will be transformational in the amount of choice sports fans will have access to via live streams on Sky TV, streaming service NOW and the improved Sky Sports App on mobile.

With more coverage than ever before from the EFL, both tennis Tours and men's Super League, Sky Sports customers can enjoy more than 50% more live sport this year.

Already looking forward to the 2024/25 Premier League season?

The fresh term will kick off just 90 days after the conclusion of the 2023/24 campaign, with new teams, kits and players, as well as rivalries restored.

From the big fixture announcement to international breaks, here's all you need to know.

Stream the Premier League with NOW | Get Sky Sports

Transfer Centre LIVE!

Premier League pre-season friendlies 2024

New Premier League kits for 2024/25

Get Sky Sports | Download the Sky Sports app

When are the 2024/25 Premier League fixtures released?

The Premier League fixtures - all 380 of them - will be released at 9am on Tuesday June 18.

Last year, Sky Sports confirmed its opening weekend picks for live coverage at the same time.

Dates and kick-off times for all Premier League fixtures are subject to change.

When does the 2024/25 Premier League season start?

The 2024/25 Premier League season will start on the weekend on August 17/18.

The campaign will run over 33 weekends, four midweek rounds and one Bank Holiday matchweek.

The Premier League has said that, in a bid to address the "congested schedule across Christmas and New Year," more rest time will be given to sides over three of the festive match rounds, with no club playing within 60 hours of another match.

Unlike in 2023 when Wolves hosted Chelsea on Christmas Eve, there will be no fixture on December 24 2024.

When does the Premier League season end?

The final round of games will be played on Sunday, May 25, 2025. All matches will kick off at the same time.

Which teams are new to top flight for 2024/25?

Leicester City sealed promotion back to the Premier League from the Championship at the first time of asking.

Kieran McKenna guided Ipswich Town back to the top flight after 22 years away.

The line-up for the 2024/25 season was be completed after the Championship play-off final, won by Southampton.

Sheffield United, Burnley and Luton - all three promoted sides in 2022/23 - were relegated straight back to the second tier.

When does the summer transfer window open and close?

The 2024 summer transfer window in Premier League officially opens on Friday June 14 - the same day that Euro 2024 starts.

The window will close on August 30 at 11pm UK time.

The Premier League has brought forward Deadline Day to link up with the other major leagues in Europe. The closing dates were set following discussions with the leagues in England, Germany, Italy, Spain and France.

Is there a winter break this season?

The mid-season break has also been removed from the calendar to allow a mid-August start date for the Premier League.

According to the FIFA men's international match calendar, international breaks are scheduled for September 1-9, October 6-14 and November 10-18, 2024 for England's fresh Nations League campaign.

Another international break takes place from March 23-31, 2025 as 2026 World Cup qualifying begins.

The FA Cup third round will take place on the weekend of January 10-11, with the final to be played on Saturday May 17.

Live Premier League on Sky Sports in 2024/25

Sky Sports will show 128 games exclusively live in the 2024/25 season - and a brand new agreement between Sky Sports and the Premier League means even more live matches from 2025/26.

From 2025, Sky Sports will broadcast a record minimum of 215 Premier League matches a season after finalising a new four-year agreement.

Throughout the 2024/25 season, you can watch Premier League match highlights for free - without being a Sky Sports subscriber.

You'll find highlights from every Premier League game in the Score Centre, as well as on the Sky Sports website and Sky Sports app shortly after full-time, or from 5.15pm for midday Saturday kick-offs. You can also watch them on the Sky Sports Football YouTube channel.

You can stream Sky Sports live with no contract on a Month or Day membership on NOW - find out more about instant access to live action from the Premier League, EFL, F1, England cricket and much more.

Sky Sports+ - more sport, launching in August!

Sky Sports+ will give more choice to sports fans via live streams and a new dedicated channel, at no extra cost.

Launching this August, Sky Sports+ will be transformational in the amount of choice sports fans will have access to via live streams on Sky TV, streaming service NOW and the improved Sky Sports App on mobile.

With more coverage than ever before from the EFL, both tennis Tours and men's Super League, Sky Sports customers can enjoy more than 50% more live sport this year.