of manchester united is interested in West Ham Midfielder Mateus Fernandes is already well established in the Portuguese media, and the Red Devils may now have another major rival to worry about: liverpool.

In recent months, reports in Portugal have repeatedly linked the 21-year-old with a move to Old Trafford. Manchester City have also been credited with interest.

He was one of the few bright spots in a difficult season for the Hammers. He established himself as a regular starter.

But now West Ham face a very different challenge. Of course the club are expected to consider a major sale as they prepare for life in the second tier.

Fernandes is widely seen as one of their most valuable assets. According to the Portuguese press, the possibility of a departure is increasing – on the contrary What was reported in previous months.

enter liverpool pictures

comes from the latest update to ball. He claims Liverpool have now joined Manchester United in the race for the midfielder.

According to the newspaper, both Liverpool and Manchester United have been keeping a close eye on Fernandes for almost two years.

United are looking a little ahead at this stage. The report claims that Michael Carrick wants substantial changes to the midfield and sees Fernandes as one of the players capable of helping reshape that area of ​​the team.

Both Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte have been linked with an exit. United have reportedly already secured a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson. But Fernandes has been presented as a more serious target.

However, Liverpool are very attentive to the situation and could move if United fail to progress.

The report also recalled the player’s praise at Anfield. Liverpool legend Jan Molby previously described Fernandes “An extraordinary footballer who has everything.”

However, as of now, A Bola has insisted that there has been no formal contact between the clubs and West Ham.

West Ham tell their price

The biggest hurdle may be valuation. West Ham are keen to cash in on Fernandes as they look to balance the books after demotion, but have no intention of selling him on the cheap.

According to A Bola, the London club want a fee of around £68.3m (€80m). This figure is much higher than the current valuation of Manchester United. The newspaper claims the Old Trafford side do not want to go any further than around £47m (€55m).

It is unclear whether Liverpool would be willing to come close to West Ham’s demands.

Keep in mind that Sporting sold him to Southampton in 2024 for around £12.8m (€15m) plus potential bonuses. After Southampton were relegated, West Ham paid around £37.6m (€44m) to sign him.

So a sale of close to £68.3 million (€80 million) would represent a significant profit in just over a year.

Sporting awaits another windfall

A second report from A Bola highlights another club with a financial interest in the result.

Sporting is entitled to money through FIFA’s solidarity mechanism thanks to Fernandes, who spent eight years in the Lisbon club’s academy.

The newspaper calculated that a transfer worth around £75.1m (€88m) would generate around £2.6m (€3.08m) for Sporting.

The Portuguese club has already benefited from the sale of Southampton to West Ham. When Fernandes first moved he received around £3.6m (€4.25m) through terms.

At the moment, Manchester United are heavily linked, Manchester City lurks in the background and Liverpool has joined the conversation.

The big question may be whether any of them are prepared to meet West Ham’s asking price as the club look for funds ahead of their Championship campaign.

The results of NASCAR’s 2026 All-Star Race at Dover didn’t stop at just the “boring” format. Another debate quickly erupted on social media over the weekend: Is the race still paying enough to feel truly special?

As for the winner, the answer for a lot of fans seems to be ‘no.’

The NASCAR All-Star Race winner still takes home $1 million, the same top prize the event has offered since 2003. And while that number once seemed huge, many fans now feel it no longer matches the scale, money and publicity of modern NASCAR.

Fans feel the “Jackpot” feeling is gone

For years, the All-Star Race has felt like drivers are risking everything for a life-changing test.

But in 2026, many fans feel that edge is gone. Part of this comes from inflation. A $1 million prize in 2003 would be worth about $1.81 million today, meaning the value of the prize has quietly diminished over time.

And after Dover’s chaotic race weekend, fans began to openly question whether NASCAR needed to seriously reconsider pay.

Some argue that if the sport really wants to make the race feel like a major event again then the winner should now get something closer to $5 million.

Especially now that NASCAR is working under a massive television rights deal worth $7.7 billion through 2031.

One fan on Reddit said nostalgically: “This used to be a really huge cash prize, so all the best drivers were tempted to buy a purse you wouldn’t normally see (outside of the Daytona 500). If you want people to do nothing again, make the prize $5 million.”

Now let’s be clear, and put the demonstrative outrage aside: $1 million is a lot of money, no question about it. It’s just putting that figure in context for the fans’ entertainment. The logic behind this is simple: If NASCAR wants drivers to race aggressively in a non-points exhibition full of wreck risks and experimental formats, the reward must also be huge. Because, to put things in perspective, the top NASCAR Cup Series drivers earn base salaries ranging from $5 million to more than $15 million per season.

When you add up race winnings, performance bonuses and sponsorship deals, the total annual earnings of the sport’s biggest stars often exceed $10 million to $17 million annually. So this means that they will not risk any aggressive moves for a race in which they may not get any points.

RELATED: Fans and analysts criticize NASCAR Dover All-Star Race

Not all fans think money solves problems

At the same time, not everyone believes that throwing more money into the race will suddenly solve everything.

Some fans admitted that they don’t care about the millionaire drivers becoming even richer. “I think the novelty of the big prize has also worn off for most people. Why should we care if a millionaire wins more money?”

For them, the issue is more about the breed losing its identity over the years. And to be honest, this feeling continued to emerge after Dover.

A lot of the reaction focused on nostalgia, fans missing when the All-Star Race was simpler, shorter, more aggressive and truly different from a regular Cup Series event.

Instead, many viewers felt that the 2026 edition became overly complicated due to segment changes, inversions, and a format that ran too long.

This is where the division is actually taking place. Some fans believe that a much larger purse, perhaps even $5 million, could bring back excitement and motivate drivers to race harder.

Others think the event has “lost its soul” and that fixing the format makes more sense than raising checks.

The drivers themselves have started taking the conversation forward

Driver fans agree. Bubba Wallace recently said that the $3 million prize would probably change the way drivers race aggressively.

Denny Hamlin also acknowledged that the current payout “doesn’t move the needle the way it once did.” He said: “I’m just going to spend $1 million on parts and pieces? We haven’t developed anything yet,” Hamlin said. “So, to change all these things piecemeal, we’re going to make changes, we’re going to spend a lot of money. And it’s only paid $1 million to win. It’s paid $1 million to win for 30 years. It’s not that good anymore. Even if one of my cars won, I don’t even remotely see it as a break-even proposition.”

And when drivers are also openly and freely saying they want “more” money, it seems like maybe they do.

My love for motorsports began as a child watching races with my family in Tunisia. Fast forward to today… more about Farah Ben Gamra

tottenham He may still want to keep Joao Palhinha permanently. However, the growing mood in Portugal is that the midfielder is already planning a move out of North London.

That sentiment is growing stronger with every new report about Sporting’s summer rebuild.

according to to ballThe Lisbon side are already shaping their next midfield with the expectation that Palhinha could arrive this summer. As he said, Sporting’s midfield next season will be “Palhinha and a new six”.

Sporting is now being planned around Palhinha

The report states that Sporting are looking to pair Palhinha with another defensive midfielder. In other words, the club’s plan is to treat his return as a done deal.

Real Betis player Sergi Altimira and Hacken youngster Silas Andersson are both on the shortlist to become the ‘number six’.

The report also states that a loan with an option to buy currently seems to be the most financially realistic formula for Sporting.

Player ready to help move forward

Palhinha’s stance continued to encourage the Portuguese side.

Both A said and morning mail It has also been claimed that the midfielder is willing to take a pay cut to facilitate a return to Sporting this summer. Apart from this, family reasons are also presented as a major factor behind his thinking.

But that doesn’t mean that Tottenham haven’t given up. De Zerbi still wants Pelhinha to be part of his project and, if the player agrees, Spurs remain favorites to sign him permanently.

There is another factor also involved. A Bola says Pelhinha does not want to openly discuss leaving Tottenham before securing the club’s Premier League survival.

The midfielder reportedly felt it would be unfair to create instability while Spurs were still fighting near the bottom of the table.

However, As we covered earlierNegotiations are already being held by the players’ representatives. Presumably, his aim is to present a possible transfer scenario with the Portuguese side. Later, those paths may be presented to the player at the end of the season.

However, the situation now seems to be escalating rapidly. And in Portugal, the story is increasingly being framed as a comeback that is already being actively built behind the scenes.

brighton and hove albion Midfielder Matt O’Reilly is on Borussia Dortmund’s summer transfer list as they plan to make additional changes in key areas.

Sky Sports Germany report The 25-year-old is also on the list of possible names for Dortmund this summer.

list of borussia dortmund

The website reports that Borussia Dortmund are looking to strengthen their squad in areas they consider important as soon as possible this summer.

Creative, attacking play is the top priority to replace Julian Brandt. But a playmaker in the defensive midfield would also be a welcome addition. One is expected to arrive at some point this summer.

Although the budget is tighter than the German side expected, Dortmund believe they will have the funds to make a deal. New sporting director Ole Book is already ‘working intensively’ behind the scenes on the new transfers.

O’Reilly is one name on this list. Manager Niko Kovac is believed to find the central midfielder ‘interesting’. And so, Bucs have inquired about the terms of a potential deal with Brighton.

He is supported by the club’s scouting department. He also finds the 25-year-old Danish international ‘interesting’.

€15-20m required

At this time, Dortmund believe any deal would cost between €15-20m. The likes of Transfermarkt value the late midfielder. But Brighton paid €29.5m for him in 2024, so will certainly be pushing for a sum closer to that figure.

It has been unclear what their intentions are with Matt O’Reilly this summer. He returned to the club in February after a loan spell at Marseille and has made only six appearances in the Premier League this season.

In fact, he has sat on the bench as an unused substitute in his last three matches. In fact, he has spent a grand total of 25 minutes since returning from France.

This suggests he is not in Brighton’s plans to move forward and a deal has to be made for Dortmund if they move.

Francisco Conceicao’s value is now rising and is likely to cause problems liverpool In summer.

sports witness The Reds’ interest in the winger was covered in March. Initial contact has been made and Manchester United has also been mentioned as a possible destination for the Portuguese attacker.

Conceição has contributed eight Serie A goals this season but has become a key player for Luciano Spalletti.

He has started every game since March and it is a clear indication of his growing prominence at the Bianconeri. Liverpool’s task is becoming more complex and his playing time has only helped.

€70m required

corriere dello sport Note how Conceição impressed for Juve against Hellas Verona at the weekend. While Spalletti’s team did not win, he remained a constant threat on the right wing, almost scoring twice after Dusan Vlahovic equalised.

This impressed the Italian manager at a time when Kenan Yildiz was facing problems of his own. Aidan Zvergova also never impressed, leaving Conceição as the main creator in attack. Conceição has now been described as ‘one of the most effective wingers’ in Serie A.

The newspaper has clarified Liverpool’s interest and warned that he could be a potential replacement for Mo Salah. The World Cup will also be important for Conceição, who can build their reputation.

Due to his recent performances, the attacker is now valued at €70m. It was previously €50m but Juve are going above that. Spalletti’s stance is also important, with Conceição considered indispensable to the team.

Our view: The Reds should focus on other goals

The Italian press seems to be hyping Conceicao as if he is actually the second coming of Mo Salah. This is not at all true, as the Portuguese consistently lacks the final ball and is still quite inconsistent.

He has a very reliable ability to beat defenders but his statistics speak volumes about his weaknesses. His 1v1 ability amazes but he still has a long way to go before reaching Salah’s level.

Indeed, the Egyptian was firing on all cylinders at Roma before arriving at Liverpool. Conceição are a level below him and €70m is a ridiculous figure to pay for him.

newcastle united Midfielder Sandro Tonali has had a prison sentence converted to a hefty fine to end a long-running illegal betting case against him and others in Italy.

Corriere Della Sera reports on the case today. They say Tonali asked for a fine of €78,250 rather than a prison sentence to drop the case.

Newcastle United star punished

The newspaper reports that sentencing has now been handed down over the case, with Tonali and Nicolo Fagioli facing prison sentences and being suspended by FIFA.

The two organizers of the case were sentenced to two years, three months and two years in prison. Meanwhile, three partners who own Milanese jewelery company Elysium Group SRL were sentenced to two and a half years in prison on money laundering charges.

That business served as a vehicle for footballers to pay off gambling debts. He would make regular bank transfers to buy luxury Rolex watches that he never collected. The watches were actually fake.

Tonali chooses penalty

Newcastle United midfielder and Fagioli were the prominent names in this case. But 18 other people including football players were also fined.

But Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Fagioli face additional punishment in the Milan criminal case. He was also accused of advertising illegal platforms to other players. There is a provision for a jail sentence of up to three months and a fine for that offence.

A plea bargain reduced it to a month, but the pair went their separate ways. While Fagioli opted for a suspended sentence, Tonali requested a fine be issued. It was assigned at €78,250 with an extended exchange rate of €250 per day.

This brings the matter to an end, giving Tonali and Fagioli a new lease of life to move forward. This could be crucial, particularly for the Newcastle man, who has been heavily linked with a potential return to Italy this summer.

PWInsider’s Mike Johnson revealed on Monday that the “majorly driven talent” in WWE was asked and accepted to take a significant pay cut. The news came a day before Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods were moved to WWE’s alumni section following their reported mutual departure from the company following a contract restructuring request.

“[We were] Reportedly a highly pushed talent was asked to take a 50% pay cut, and allegedly did so,” Johnson wrote. ”I’m not naming the genius because I have no way of yet confirming that this was the case, but the timing of that claim and what happened the next day was very interesting to say the least.”

Fightful Select’s Sean Ross Sapp said on X that several talents were asked to take pay cuts by WWE, although he did not specify which names were included.

Keeping all this in mind, let’s guess which famous star has accepted the pay cut rumor recently.

la night

LA Knight is the most obvious, seeing his decline over the last few years and not being used as often as he used to. Knight can stick with WWE for a few more years, be used as they see fit, and that will pay off his bank account. WWE might also know that Knight does not want to leave from there and go anywhere else.

logan paul

While this may be a reach, Logan Paul fits the bill as he has gone from being a guy in the mix in top tier storylines to now being involved in a tag team with Austin Theory. Money is not an issue for him, and he would probably do WWE for free at this point because of his love for the sport.

belle

Bayley likes wrestling and WWE. If the company comes to her asking for a pay cut, we can see her being happy to do so because she absolutely loves her job and coworkers. He is seen in regular roles on TV, although he is no longer the main announcer. Maybe Bailey is also thinking of big plans and is aiming to establish a job in the company after leaving the job.

The Miz

The Miz has been in WWE for two decades and has earned his keep, as well as being secure in whatever role WWE has asked him to play. He has fame and legacy. Now he wants to help young talents learn. He’s a good fit for the company, but he probably has a bigger contract than he’s used to. After the wrestling is over, he’s probably also thinking about the bigger picture and the work backstage.

newcastle united And liverpool Both have been credited with a strong interest in Brazilian attacking midfielder Allan Elias for months.

As we have covered beforeThe Magpies have been repeatedly pushed as one of the clubs most serious about a deal in Brazil.

Now, however, a fresh twist suggests the issue is no longer about whether Palmeiras likes the numbers on offer. Instead, it may be about how and when the money comes.

Latest claims from club aggregator accounts In Brazil, it is said that Allen’s agency, Talent Sports, is pursuing the move.

Newcastle United and Liverpool are both said to be keen to match the €40m (£34.3m) mark Palmeiras is asking for. However, their proposed payment model is proving to be a problem.

This is an important detail of this saga. Furthermore, Palmeiras have consistently made it clear that they do not want to lose the 21-year-old in the middle of a season in which he has already played a major role.

The Brazilian season runs on a different calendar than that in Europe. So the summer transfer window is similar to the winter one here.

Allan has made 21 appearances and scored four goals in 2026. Additionally, manager Abel Ferreira’s team has won the state championship and is leading the league.

Payment structure major issue on Alan Elias

According to new claims, the English club would prefer to spread the costs over a longer period.

The structure under discussion will reportedly involve an upfront payment of approximately €20m (£17.1m). The rest will be compensated through installments and performance-related bonuses over three years.

From Liverpool and Newcastle United’s perspective, this will help safeguard their financial balance. This would still allow them to reach Palmeiras’ valuation on paper.

From Palmeiras’ point of view, this is not enough.

The Brazilian side is said to want the money in a very short time frame and talks are currently at a standstill. So while the title valuation may be close to acceptable, the mechanics of the agreement are not.

Liverpool and Newcastle United’s familiar resistance

This also matches what is already coming out of Brazil. As we have covered beforeClub president Leila Perera has shown no inclination to approve the sale of Allan Elias yet.

newcastle united Described as strong favorites at various stages.

During this time, liverpool It is being said that they are trying to get priority in the post-World Cup arrangements. Both clubs are also reportedly taking shortcuts Contacting player agents directly. Yet Palmeiras’ stance remains largely the same.

The club wanted to protect their season, and considered Alan Elias too important to lose unless the conditions were in his favor.

This creates a clear division in the story. On one hand, the agency reportedly believes it is the right time to sell. Palmeiras, on the other hand, believes the right time is later – or only under more favorable financial circumstances.

Our belief: Could happen faster than we expect

This seems like an important development in the Alan Elias case. For several weeks discussion has focused on interest, valuation and which English club is in the best position.

The more useful detail now is that Liverpool and Newcastle United may already be quite close in terms of price, but are still very far apart in terms of payment terms.

This matters because it shows that a deal is not impossible. It is not structured the way Palmeiras wants. And this can be an easy obstacle to overcome.

However, for now, it appears to be enough to keep Alan Elias exactly where Leila Perera wants him. In green, in form, and still playing a big role in Palmeiras season.

Aston Villa and Chelsea are willing to pay £40 million to sign Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Lucas Bergvall, who is making his first transfer move of the January window.

sportbladet Report that both sides approached Tottenham in the January window, which Spurs clearly rejected.

Europe’s big clubs are looking

According to Sportbladet, the 20-year-old Tottenham midfielder is on the radar of many of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Despite Spurs’ struggles, his development at Tottenham over the past year has made him a player of interest.

Aston Villa and Chelsea are among those who are keen and interested in purchasing the Sweden international in the January transfer window. Both of them informed Tottenham that they were keen to move on.

At the time both clubs were prepared to pay £40 million for Lucas Bergvall. But Tottenham ‘categorically refused’ to initiate any talks regarding his efforts or the Swede.

demotion probability key

His stance is unlikely to change now, but a demotion could be significant. Spurs are firmly in the relegation battle, with just one point separating them from the bottom three.

If they drop into the Championship at the end of the season, there is the possibility of a summer fire-sale. Lucas Bergvall will be among those targeted.

Aston Villa and Chelsea have already shown a willingness to pay £40m, in such a scenario they would likely be first in line. The Blues had already been linked with a move in February.

And slipping to the Championship could force Tottenham to leave. They will need to balance the books and reduce costs as much as possible.

However, for now it seems that Tottenham are resisting. They have already rejected the efforts of their Premier League counterparts. Whether they can do that again in the summer will depend on how well Roberto De Zerbi performs in keeping them.

🇮🇹 Manuel Locatelli | De Zerbi’s arrival at Tottenham makes Juventus’ links with the midfielder inevitable

➡️The manager said he wants him here #THFC
➡️ Transfer was mentioned during initial talks
📈Helped launch Locatelli’s career
🔁 Fits the Player De Zerbi systemhttps://t.co/iIqD80i8fD

– Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) April 1, 2026

Despite being only 22 years old, Victor Munoz has come a long way in the game. Sunderland tried to sign him a few months ago and now, his value has already increased.

At the end of the 2024/25 season, the attacker was at Real Madrid and was criticized for a crucial miss in El Clasico. Although this led to Los Blancos losing games and even the La Liga title, Munoz has turned things around very quickly in his career.

The 22-year-old joined Osasuna in the summer and impressed, contributing 11 goals in all competitions.

This led Sunderland to attempt to sign the Spaniard in January. was covered by sports witnessBecause an offer from Wearside was on the table for the Spanish side.

Fast forward to this month, Muñoz was called up to the Spanish national team. He also scored on his debut when he returned to the net in a friendly against Serbia last week.

As a result, the winger situation is once again attracting attention.

Sunderland asked to pay more

Today, Country Take a look at Munoz’s journey in the game and note how he impressed against Serbia.

He believes he can leave Osasuna in the summer, with Real Madrid still having a 50% resale clause in his contract. The Spanish giants were aware of his skills and that is why they inserted a clause to have some degree of control over the winger.

The outlet clarified that Sunderland had offered €25m to sign him in January. This could have been satisfactory for Osasuna but the ex-Los Blancos graduate decided to reject the move.

He has a release clause of €40m in his contract and that is what the Black Cats would have to pay to sign Munoz. The main reason for this is how the player’s stature has increased in the last few months.

He could also play in the World Cup in the summer, which would be another way to establish Munoz’s value.

El Pais believe there remains interest from a number of clubs, amid indications he could depart in the summer. Sunderland are the more attractive option now, as they have shown they will not go straight back into the Championship.

Our opinion: Sunderland should stay in the race

It’s interesting to note that Munoz hasn’t just impressed this season. For Real Madrid Castilla during the 2024/25 campaign, he scored 11 league goals and also provided seven assists.

Furthermore, he can play on either flank and has also played as a striker several times at club level. Munoz is believed to thrive in 1v1 situations and has pace that can beat most defenders in the final third.

That unpredictability can come in handy for any club – and that includes Sunderland. His release clause seems relatively accessible to English clubs, which is why Regis Le Bris’s team should continue to keep an eye on the talent. It would not be a surprise if the competition for him increases, especially if he plays in the World Cup.

🇳🇱Brian Brobbie | Awesome read for Sunderland fans

📈 Players and analysts explain the sports revolution
➡️ Changed approach since Ajax
⚽️ Individual plan details and why the changes were made
⭐️ …all coming together for Brobiehttps://t.co/9Ht1dX7lN8 #safc

– Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) 27 March 2026

During the Lakers’ nine-game winning streak, LeBron has been one of the biggest contributors. After facing questions about his fit with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, James has emerged as the perfect power forward for the Lakers who can hit shots with efficiency and also make moves on the defensive end.

Ramona:

“I think the idea of ​​playing anywhere near $50 million is probably over, but if (LeBron) is willing to play for less than that, if it fits with what (the Lakers) are trying to do, then I think the door is open.” pic.twitter.com/ePVU76wKQo

– Oh no, he didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) 23 March 2026

The change in the Lakers’ play has sparked various discussions about the team and LeBron’s possible return. While many believe LeBron will leave the Lakers in the summer, Ramona Shelburne raised the possibility that James will remain with the Lakers if he takes a significant pay cut.

“I think the idea of ​​playing anywhere for $50 million is probably dead on now. But, if he’s willing to play at a lower price, if it fits with what they’re trying to do, I think that door is open,” Shelburne said on NBA Today.

NBA Today guest host Jorge Sedano said, “Yeah. ‘Cause they have to balance the Austin situation as well. And still be able to fill out the rest of the roster.”

Shelburne said, “Yeah. As it stands right now, it’s almost like he’ll reverse roles with Austin in terms of salary.”

James is averaging 21.1 points per game, 5.8 rebounds per game and 6.8 assists per game on a 51.4% field goal percentage. His all-round play and playmaking ability has been crucial for the Lakers during this win streak and could be vital if the Lakers want to make a deep playoff run.

The Lakers will visit the East-leading Detroit Pistons tonight at 7pm EST.

Steph De Lander and her husband Mance Warner have officially parted ways with TNA Wrestling. In an interview with Shawn Ross Sapp for Fightful, De Lander lifted the curtain on the financial and logistical frustrations that led to his sudden exit.

The former TNA star revealed that the majority of the TNA roster is no longer on a traditional salary. This is due to their transition to a “pay-per-appearance” model, which leaves talent vulnerable to sudden scheduling changes.

De Lander explained that under the current management structure, wrestlers only get paid when they appear and are used at tapings. This “day rate” system can lead to financial instability if the artist is left out of the loop or if tapings are infrequent.

De Lander said that although some long-working talent may still be on old salary-based contracts, the new standard at the company is a lack of guaranteed income. This is something that can cause problems.

“As far as I’m aware, most talent are not on salary. They’re on pay-per-appearance, which basically means if you book for the day, you get paid whatever your rate is… It’s not a traditional weekly salary pay check. If they don’t book you you could go for months without getting paid,” De Lander said.

The final breakthrough for the couple reportedly came during preparation for the upcoming TNA Sacrifice and Impact tapings in New Orleans, scheduled for March 27–28 at the Alario Center. De Lander revealed that he and Warner were initially booked for both days, but received an email at the last minute informing them that they only needed one day. Because independent wrestlers often plan their months around these dates and refuse outside bookings in order to remain available to TNA, such changes can have a financial impact.

“Even for the next week’s taping in New Orleans, we were told we were on both of those… then I got an email that we were only needed for one day. That was part of the thing that made me think like, ‘Okay… I’m unbooked for one day,’ which again also means you’re not getting paid for one of those days,” she continued.

Juventus hopes that Aston Villa can qualify for the Champions League this season, so they can sell Douglas Luiz permanently.

This is according to Tuttosport. The Italian newspaper has today covered the Brazilian midfielder’s situation and Juventus’ expectations.

Luiz returned to Aston Villa at the end of the January transfer window. He was on loan at Nottingham Forest, but did not benefit from being under successive managers.

He was eventually sent back to Juventus, where he was also not in the plans. The Italian side instead agreed a deal with Aston Villa for the 27-year-old to return to Villa Park.

That loan deal includes the option for the Villans to make it permanent. Unai Emery’s side would have to pay €28.5m to do so. Sport Witness has covered various reports on that matter, including Earlier this week one said there was confidence that would happen.

Why is Aston Villa form important?

Tuttosport works on it now. According to their information, Juventus are closely watching Aston Villa’s form.

Luiz is currently helping them finish in the top four. They are currently in third place with 51 points, three points ahead of fourth-placed Manchester United. They are five behind Manchester City in second place.

Juventus are ‘obviously hoping’ that will happen. His argument is simple. If Aston Villa qualify for the Champions League, they could be ‘persuaded’ to buy Douglas Luiz permanently for €25m.

€3.5m bonus on card

There could also be an additional €3.5m bonus on the cards for him if the midfielder remains a key player under Emery.

Both would be a timely boost to Juventus’ coffers, especially as Luiz is no longer part of the club’s long-term plans.

In fact, Juventus only sees the midfielder as being at risk of becoming a liability going forward. They want to avoid keeping it with them for a long time and paying more than necessary.

Aston Villa, preferably, would sign him in the summer and prevent that from happening. Qualifying for the Champions League will make that more likely.

A new report about fired Michigan head coach Sharon Moore claims she actually gave an employee a raise after being alerted to a serious sexual harassment allegation.

In December, Michigan football was rocked when the university revealed it was unexpectedly firing head coach Sharon Moore. Following this news, reports revealed that not only was the man who replaced Jim Harbaugh after a series of scandals fired as coach, but he was also in a local jail.

The coach was ousted due to an inappropriate relationship with a staff member and arrested after he stormed the woman’s home and threatened to kill himself after his actions took a toll on her life.

Drama has followed the Wolverines football program over the years because of the questionable individuals Harbaugh hired, including Moore. Well, the Michigan football staff’s history of having obnoxious people got another ugly chapter on Friday.

According to Justin Spiro, an unnamed woman went to the then-head coach and accused current Atlanta Falcons defensive line coach LaTroy Lewis of rape while he was a member of Moore’s staff. Unfortunately, Moore rejected the claim.

“Lewis is also accused of attacking the same woman in a separate incident so violently and viciously that neighbors called the police to report disturbing noises coming from his apartment,” Spiro reports.

Yet, not only did he deny the disgusting allegations, but he reportedly would eventually give Lewis a raise and actually sexually harass the same woman. Following the sexual assault claim, Moore allegedly texted her, “Get up, I have to suck it now.”

“The alleged victim, we’ll call her ‘Jane,’ Moore said she refused to report the assault because she confided in him, which is a violation of her status as a mandated reporter under Title IX, and a violation of University of Michigan policy,” Spiro’s report said. “Over the following weeks, Moore sent Jane a series of sexually graphic messages, ordering her to perform various sexual acts on him.”

The report shows photos of injuries, screenshots of messages and a police report from the situation that began in July 2024 and lasted until December last year.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Nottingham Forest negotiated the loan of Arnaud Kalimuendo to Eintracht Frankfurt in January as a strong defense. Just a few weeks later, that security already appears to be under quiet pressure.

according to Image Frankfurt, The Bundesliga side secured a purchase option for the 24-year-old forward worth around £23.2m (€27m). This was an important section, structured by sporting director Markus Kroesch during the winter window.

At the time, the figure gave Nottingham Forest clarity. If Frankfurt were satisfied, they could trigger the option. If not, the player will be returned. Easy. However, the situation now looks less straightforward.

Kalimuendo made an immediate impact in Germany. He has scored three goals and added one assist in his first eight Bundesliga appearances. Recently he also scored a goal in the 3-2 defeat to Bayern Munich. Internally, both the board and head coach Albert Riera are said to be very pleased with his performances.

Individual conditions are not a hindrance. contract till 2031 reportedly agreed in principleThe basic salary is approximately £2.6m per year (€3m). From a sporting and contractual perspective, the groundwork is in place.

Consent on option – delay in decision

Despite this, BILD reports that Frankfurt does not intend to make a final decision until May. The delay has been agreed with the players and their representatives, with all parties focusing on football for the time being.

The financial context is important. If Frankfurt fails to qualify for European competition, it will be much more difficult to commit more than £23 million on a player. That uncertainty shifts the focus back to fees.

Importantly, Krosh has a reputation as a tough negotiator. The report suggests that even if Frankfurt reaches Europe, they may still consider resuming price discussions. If the forest were removed, that leverage would only increase.

What does this mean for nottingham forest

On the Nottingham Forest side, the provision of £23.2 million was to resolve the ambiguity. There are options to avoid this type of scenario – strong performance leads to new deals.

Now, this clause could become the starting point for another round of talks, rather than being a definitive outcome. Frankfurt clearly wants to keep Kalimuendo. The player wants to stay. Yet the agreed figure is no longer presented as inevitable.

Nottingham Forest negotiated in good faith in January. The coming months will reveal whether that agreement holds – or whether Frankfurt’s strong desire to renegotiate the numbers turns a direct option into summer negotiations.

There is also a belief in Frankfurt that forest removal could help in achieving lower tariffs.

Despite an unsuccessful performance at Tennessee and being the backup in Green Bay the last two years, if teams like the Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns or Pittsburgh Steelers wanted to sign Malik Willis in free agency, it would be a ridiculous price.

While they had different results in 2025, the Dolphins, Browns and Steelers are all entering the offseason with the same issues. Figuring out who will be their starting quarterback next season.

Miami is expected to move on from Tua Tagovailoa this offseason after disappointing performances over the past two seasons and a trip to the Pro Bowl in 2023. Cleveland has options like Deshaun Watson and Shadure Sanders, but rumors suggest they will look at the QB market this offseason. Pittsburgh could run it back with Aaron Rodgers in 2026, but they need to find a long-term option at the position.

That’s why reports and speculation have linked all three to impending free agent Malik Willis. The third-round pick from the 2022 NFL Draft is viewed as the best QB available in free agency despite starting his career with the Tennessee Titans and then serving as a backup for the Green Bay Packers in 2024 and 2025.

Could Malik Willis get a deal worth more than $30 million annually?

Willis’ time in Green Bay and what he showed in limited action last season has created a lot of talk that the 26-year-old could be the next Sam Darnold or Daniel Jones. Due to the weak QB market this offseason and his untapped potential, Willis is clearly attracting a lot of interest, and it is driving up the asking price for teams that want to sign him.

As NFL insider Jordan Schultz reports, “As expected, Packers free agent QB Malik Willis is in demand, and the interested teams I spoke to at the combine in Indianapolis believe him getting at least $30 million per year is a foregone conclusion.”

A deal in the thirties would get them the same money as Darnold and Baker Mayfield. Players who proved more than enough during their careers and reached the playoffs. That’s a surprising amount of money Willis could get, but it’s the going rate for a demanding position that garners some of the biggest contracts in the NFL.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Following the fight between Memphis Grizzlies guard Scottie Pippen Jr. and Heat guard Myron Gardner over the weekend, the NBA world was waiting for some punishment to be handed down by the league, possibly in the form of a fine.

Sure enough, it was announced on Monday that Scottie Pippen Jr. and Myron Gardner were both fined $35,000 for their roles in the fight between the Grizzlies and Heat, according to ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel.

The incident occurred late in the third quarter of the Heat’s win against the Grizzlies on Saturday. The game was well in hand when Pippen came down the court and attempted a 3-point shot. The shot missed but Gardner came up behind him and hit his back, sending Pippen to the floor.

On the way back to the court, Pippen called Gardner out and pounced on him, causing both players to step cautiously to the sidelines. Teammates, coaches and officials rushed in and eventually separated the pair.

For Heat rookie Gardner, this isn’t his first clash with an opposing player. In November, Gardner was caught on film talking trash to Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson. Following that incident, the Heat assistant coach brought Gardner to Thompson after the game to apologize for his actions.

In the NBA’s release regarding the fine, the league acknowledged that Gardner initiated the fight by pushing Pippen from behind. Both players were eventually ejected from the game, and afterward, Pippen said he felt like it was a cheap shot.

Cade Cunningham took his stance on helping Detroit Pistons teammate Isaiah Stewart with his fine following his recent suspension.

The Pistons received a lot of attention during a viral fight with Charlotte Hornets players on February 9. This resulted in Stewart and Jalen Duren being suspended and fined, along with other players on both teams. The NBA ordered the former player to miss seven consecutive games and the latter to miss four games.

Cunningham participated in All-Star Weekend festivities as he was in attendance for media day. After earning a spot as an All-Star starter, he answered questions as one of them revolved around Stewart’s fine. This is where the Star Guard came forward in support of his comrade.

“Would you ever be the one to pay the fine for Isaiah Stewart?” The reporter asked.

Cunningham replied, “I would. He’s my brother, man… It’s expensive, but he’s the guy. I wouldn’t trade him for the world.”

Reporter: “Would you ever be the one to pay the fine for Isaiah Stewart?”

Cade Cunningham: “I would. He’s my brother, man… It’s expensive, but he’s the man. I wouldn’t trade him for the world.”

– ClutchPoints (@clutchpoints) 14 February 2026

Cade Cunningham, what’s next for the Pistons

Cade Cunningham is enjoying an incredible campaign as the Pistons are in the mix for serious playoff contention. He will need his best buddies to keep him from getting into too much trouble and help him along the way.

Cunningham earned the second All-Star selection of his career this season as he is also up for his second All-NBA selection. He averaged 25.3 points, 9.6 assists, 5.6 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game in 47 appearances. He is shooting 46.2% from the field, including 33% from beyond the arc, and 80.8% from the free-throw line.

Detroit boasted a 40–13 record on the season, finishing atop the Eastern Conference standings. They are 5.5 games up on the Boston Celtics and six games up on the New York Knicks.

The Pistons remain on hiatus until All-Star weekend festivities conclude. They will resume action on the road when they face the Los Angeles Clippers on February 20 at 10 PM ET and the Boston Celtics on February 22 at 6:30 PM ET.

Why did I switch from PayPal to Apple Pay casino payments when both offer similar processing times and security protocols?

They’re both safe ways to make deposits and withdrawals, but in my experience, Apple Pay provides a better service for mobile users. 

🤔 What is Apple Pay?

Apple Pay is a safe way to make online gambling payments. Specifically, it’s a next-generation eWallet. I say that because it takes what first-generation online wallets such as PayPal started and streamlines the experience. 

I’ll talk more about how to use Apple Pay at the top UK online gambling sites later. For now, here’s a quick overview of what it does:

• Apple Pay is exclusively for iOS users (sorry, Android readers, you’ll need to use Google Pay).
• You set up Apple Pay by linking a debit/credit card or bank account to your Apple account. 
• This turns your mobile phone into a portable payment device that can be used for in-person tap-to-pay transactions or online transactions. 

In essence, Apple Pay is a conduit for financial transactions. This means you can make payments from your bank account without entering any banking details. There are a variety of benefits to this, including efficiency and security, which is why the top UK online gambling sites now offer this payment method. 

🔎 A closer look at the top 3 Apple Pay casinos in the UK

More and more UK online gambling sites are starting to offer Apple Pay, but a few bright sparks got ahead of the curve. Of all the casinos that spotted Apple Pay’s benefits before it was trendy, the following three are my favourites, thanks to their games, promotions and unique features.

1. sport BET

sport BET is more than a sportsbook. Yes, it offers generous odds on the latest Premier League games and boxing matches, but don’t sleep on its slots. The developers quietly added a handful of exclusives to the already impressive gaming lobby at the end of 2024. 

I’d still like a few more casual casino games to be added, particularly in the form of crash games. However, if you’re someone who wants to get the most from Apple Pay, you’ll have plenty of mobile games to choose from.

Age of the Gods: Cash Collect is my favourite progressive jackpot slot, and 10p Roulette is both fun and affordable. If I’m forced to recommend one game for all-round entertainment, I have to go with Vinnie Jones Card Chase.

2. PUB casino

This pub is a hive of entertainment, and there’s not a drink in sight. With plenty of mobile slots and table games, including blackjack, roulette, baccarat and poker, you won’t be short of ways to wager money. 

I would love a few more digital table games, but the live casino more than makes up for the gaps in this area of the app. For me, the main reason to try Pub Casino is its casual games. Offerings such as Rock, Paper, Scissors and Flipping Fortunes are not only fun but simple enough that even a complete casino newbie can easily ante up. 

When you combine the novice-friendly games lobby with almost instant withdrawals via Apple Pay, it’s hard not to call Pub Casino one of the best gambling sites for newbies.

3. Virgin Games

Rewards and freebies are the two reasons I joined Virgin Games. The fact that real-money players can play selected slots for free every day is hugely impressive. A lot of UK online casinos offer free spins, but none do it on a daily basis, like Virgin Games. 

You’ll notice from my list of pros and cons below that you can’t make withdrawals via Apple Pay. I can’t pretend I’m happy about this. Any casino that offers Apple Pay deposits (as Virgin Games does) should make it a withdrawal option. That being said, you can make almost instant withdrawals using Visa Direct. 

For a final flourish, Virgin Games offers poker and bingo. Again, that’s something of a unique twist on the usual line-up games you’ll see at the top UK gambling sites. So, if you want to try something different while making safe Apple Pay deposits, I recommend Virgin Games.

🤳 The ideal Apple Pay user

The ideal Apple Pay user is, obviously, someone with an iPhone or iPad. Without one of these devices and an associated Apple account, you can’t use this payment method. 

The second requirement is that you’re a registered user with one of my recommended Apple Pay casinos. You can be a member of more than one UK online gambling site, but at least one of them must offer Apple Pay. 

Assuming you’ve got the basics in place, the ideal Apple Pay casino user is someone who wants the following things…

• Instant deposits and withdrawals that take no more than 48 hours. 
• A simple one-touch way to make deposits and withdrawals.
• An easy way to play mobile casino games.
• Enhanced security features such as Touch ID and Face ID. 
• The ability to make payments without entering your credit/debit card details or banking details.

I’m not saying you have to want all or any of these things to use Apple Pay. However, if you’re willing to try new technologies and want easy ways to make mobile gambling payments, Apple Pay is ideal.

Pros and cons of using Apple Pay at online casinos

Some players I’ve spoken to love the convenience of Apple Pay, while some see the ability to make instant mobile payments as a potential problem. I don’t think instant payments are a problem, but I can see why people might think so. 

The fact that you can deposit and withdraw funds with a single tap does pose a risk for people prone to wagering more than they can afford to lose. However, as long as you adhere to the basic tenets of responsible gambling and set sensible deposit limits, this shouldn’t be a problem. 

Based on my experience, this is the main argument against using Apple Pay for online casino transactions, but there are other things to consider. Some of the other pros and cons to think about are:

💛 Pros

• You can verify payments using Touch ID/Face ID security instead of standard passwords.
• Payments can be completed in less than 30 seconds. 
• Funds are processed safely using Apple’s cutting-edge mobile encryption software. 

🛠️ Cons

• This method is only available to iOS users. 
• Not all UK online casinos offer Apple Pay for withdrawals. 

📋 How to make a deposit with Apple Pay

Making Apple Pay casino deposits is easy if you’ve already got an account with one of my top picks. If that’s the case, you can start from step #3 on the list below. For anyone who’s yet to join an Apple Pay online casino, here’s how to do it:

1. Create an account with one of my recommended Apple Pay casinos, such as sport BET.

2. Go to the Apple Store and download your chosen casino’s mobile app. 

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3. Log into your casino account via the iOS app. 

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4. Tap “Deposit” and confirm that you acknowledge the company’s fund segregation policy.

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5. Set your deposit limit (daily, weekly, monthly or no limit).

6. Select Apple Pay from the list of payment options. 

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7. Enter a deposit amount (£5 or more).

8. Double-click the action button on your iPhone/iPad to initiate the transaction.

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9. Enter your Apple Pay password or use Touch ID/Face ID to verify the transaction. 

Your funds will be available instantly once you’ve successfully completed the above steps. 

⚖️ Apple Pay method compared to others

Apple Pay stacks up well when it’s compared to other UK online gambling payment options, which is why its popularity is increasing. Let’s take a look at how it compares in four key areas to see if it’s the right payment method for you:

*For clarity, I’ve used sport BET, Pub Casino, and Virgin Games as the basis for withdrawal limits and processing times. 

💡 Tips when using Apple Pay as a preferred payment method

The simplicity of Apple Pay means that it’s almost impossible to mess up transactions. While that’s true, there are some things you can do to get the most out of this innovative payment method. 

With this in mind, here’s how to use Apple Pay responsibly and take full advantage of its features:

• Make sure Apple Pay is connected to a bank account suitable for online gambling transactions. Specifically, the funds in your bank account should be disposable income, i.e. money set aside for gambling. 
• Enable Touch ID/Face ID on your device to provide an additional layer of security to each transaction.
• Set a deposit limit via your casino account. You can do this before your first deposit or within the responsible gambling section of your account page. 
• Only use Apple Pay for deposits if you’re happy to have winnings sent to this method. Online casinos typically require you to withdraw money to your original deposit method. If this isn’t possible, you can use another method. Therefore, if you use Apple Pay for your first deposit, it will be your default withdrawal method if possible. 
• Make small deposits rather than one large deposit. One of Apple Pay’s benefits is the fact that you can make deposits from as little as £5. Use this to your advantage by dividing up your bankroll so you can make small deposits at multiple casinos and claim multiple bonuses. 

🧑🏻‍⚖️ My final verdict

Apple Pay has become my default method for mobile casino payments over the last 12 months. I previously put all my faith in PayPal and, to some extent, still do. However, there’s something about the convenience of Apple Pay that I can’t escape. 

If you’re someone who prefers gaming on the go, Apple Pay is the only viable option, in my opinion. It’s extremely easy to use, transactions are processed swiftly, and there are multiple layers of security. 

Why do I like using Apple Pay at online casinos?

I’m a big fan of mobile slots, and Apple Pay makes it easy to spin the reels of real-money hits such as Starburst and Big Bass Bonanza. 

As well as giving me the necessary funds to play for six-figure prizes, the speed of Apple Pay transactions means I can jump into the slots competition without missing a beat. When you add ongoing promotions to the mix, Apple Pay is an ideal way to get more value from your time online. 

Where could Apple Pay use some improvements?

As much as I rate and recommend Apple Pay for casino players with an iPhone or iPad, I have to be honest and say it’s not perfect. Aside from the fact that it’s not available at every UK online casino, withdrawals could be improved. 

Some UK casino sites only offer Apple Pay deposits. I’d make Apple Pay a default withdrawal method if it’s available for deposits. In line with this, I’d increase the amount you can withdraw using Apple Pay. 

Although I’ve never hit the maximum withdrawal limit, some people might, particularly if they win a progressive jackpot. Most UK online casinos allow you to withdraw between £35,000 and £50,000 via Apple Pay. 

To reiterate, that’s a limit most people, including me, won’t hit in a single transaction. That being said, there may be times you want to withdraw more. Bank transfers are the obvious alternative for transactions over £50,000, but it can take up to 7 days to get your winnings via this method. 

Therefore, if I’m being needlessly critical, I’d say that Apple Pay would be even better if the maximum withdrawal limit was increased to £100,000. What’s more, deposits are often capped at £1,000. This limit could also be increased to ensure Apple Pay is as suitable for high rollers as it is for casual casino players.

❓ FAQ about making Apple Pay transactions at online casinos

1. Are there fees when I use Apple Pay as a payment method?

You won’t pay any fees when you make deposits or withdrawals using Apple Pay. The best online casino absorbs any processing fees levied by third-party processors, including Apple Pay. This means you can make transfers, no matter how big or small, without paying any extra costs. This is particularly important for withdrawals because you get to keep 100% of your winnings. 

2. How long does it take for deposits and withdrawals via Apple Pay to be processed?

Apple Pay online casino deposits are processed instantly, and the average time for withdrawals is 24 hours. The majority of top-rated UK online casinos have security protocols in place for real money withdrawals. These protocols ensure that requests are legitimate and not fraudulent. The quicker a security review is conducted, the sooner you’ll receive your winnings. For example, sport BET typically reviews requests within 24 hours, which means withdrawals are usually completed in a day. 

3. Are there any casino-specific promotions or cashback offers available for using Apple Pay?

Online casino bonuses aren’t linked to specific payment methods such as Apple Pay, but there are ways to get something extra using this payment method. Specifically, the best UK online gambling operators offer mobile casino bonuses. Because Apple Pay is a mobile casino payment method, it’s the ideal way to claim bonuses designed for iOS users. Check out popular UK casino sites such as PUB, Virgin Games, and Casumo for mobile bonus offers.

Read up on other casino payment methods

About the author

Daniel Smyth

Daniel Smyth has seen the online poker, casino, and betting industry from every angle. He previously played poker semi-professionally before working at WPT Magazine as a writer and editor. From there, he transitioned to online gaming where he’s been producing expert content for over 10 years.

Follow Daniel on Twitter @DanSmythThePoet

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to sport. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

• Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
• Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
• Never chase their losses
• Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
• Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
• GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.