The shot-stopper arrives on the English south coast after two seasons in Turin, where he featured in the Champions League but faced criticism for errors during the latter stages of his tenure. Juventus have already secured his replacement, bringing in Guglielmo Vicario on loan from Tottenham Hotspur with a similar purchase option.

Fresh start in England

Di Gregorio expressed enthusiasm about his new chapter, highlighting Bournemouth’s ambition and the opportunity to compete in English football’s top flight. “I feel good, I feel happy, I’m very pleased to be here,” he told the club’s media channels. “I felt the club’s strong desire to bring me here and I felt the club’s ambition to continue growing and achieving great things.”

He described the Premier League as “definitely the best league in the world,” adding: “For me, it’s an honour to be here and play in it and to be involved in matches at the highest level, I can’t wait to get started.”

The goalkeeper revealed that former Juventus teammate Lloyd Kelly, who spent five years with Bournemouth before moving to Serie A, encouraged the switch. Di Gregorio consulted Kelly about life on the south coast and English football. “He spoke very well of the club, the city and the life here. He recommended this move to me,” Di Gregorio explained.

Juventus overhaul

Di Gregorio’s departure forms part of a broader restructuring of Juventus’s goalkeeping department. The Turin club moved swiftly to secure Vicario from Tottenham, with supporters viewing the change as an upgrade following Di Gregorio’s inconsistent performances.

The Bournemouth deal provides the Italian with a platform to rebuild his reputation while supporting the club’s debut European campaign. “I believe I’m a very strong, reactive goalkeeper,” he stated. “Being here and testing myself in this league where there are lots of top goalkeepers will help further my development.”

Should Di Gregorio impress during the season, Bournemouth could make the move permanent for the reported €14 million fee, securing a long-term solution between the posts as the club embarks on its first European adventure.

The French striker, who previously played for FC Lorient, has emerged as a priority target for the Catalan giants during this transfer window. However, Barcelona currently view him as an alternative option should their primary pursuit of Julián Alvarez fail to materialise.

Contract and form strengthen Bournemouth’s hand

Kroupi enjoyed an impressive debut campaign in English football, netting 13 goals across 33 Premier League appearances. His performances have attracted significant interest from major European clubs, but Bournemouth hold a strong negotiating position.

The forward remains tied to the south coast club until 2030, having signed a long-term deal upon his arrival. Bournemouth’s management have indicated on multiple occasions that they are reluctant to sanction his departure during the current transfer window.

With several years remaining on his contract and having proven his ability to score consistently in one of Europe’s most demanding leagues, Kroupi represents a valuable asset for the Cherries as they look to build on their previous season.

Player interest creates potential standoff

Despite the club’s firm stance, Kroupi is understood to welcome Barcelona’s interest. The player has reportedly communicated to his representatives his desire to make the switch to the Camp Nou and play in La Liga.

This development creates a complex dynamic between the player and his current employers. While Kroupi appears open to the transfer, Bournemouth are under no immediate contractual or financial pressure to sell, given the length of his deal and their Premier League status.

Barcelona must raise their offer

For any transfer to materialise, Barcelona face the challenge of substantially increasing their financial package. The current bids have been deemed insufficient by the Premier League side, who appear determined to retain their attacking talent.

The Catalan club must now decide whether to commit greater resources to securing Kroupi or focus their attention on completing a deal for Alvarez. Should the Alvarez transfer proceed, Kroupi would likely drop down their list of priorities.

The situation remains fluid as the summer window progresses, with Bournemouth currently holding firm against the La Liga club’s advances.

From Thiessois to Belgium

Cissé completed his move to the Ghelamco Arena from CO Thiessois in October 2025, representing a significant step in the youngster’s career. The 1.96-metre centre-forward settled quickly into life at his new club, impressing coaching staff with his performances for the reserve team before earning a promotion to senior duties.

Head coach Rik De Mil handed Cissé his professional debut in March, and the striker celebrated the milestone by scoring his first goal. He has since added 11 further appearances to his tally, bringing his total to 12 outings for the Buffalos. Despite not finding the net in subsequent matches, his physical presence and mobility have marked him as a standout talent in the Belgian Pro League.

Cross-border competition

The breadth of interest in Cissé spans multiple leagues and competitive levels. Lyon represent an attractive destination given their regular participation in European competitions and reputation for developing young attackers. Bournemouth, competing in the English Premier League, could offer the financial muscle and global exposure of English football. Meanwhile, Paris FC are positioning themselves as a project for the future as they aim to climb from France’s second division.

According to reports, Gent are aware of the growing scrutiny and have set their asking price to reflect both the player’s potential and the strong competition for his signature.

Contract security

The Belgian outfit hold a commanding position in any potential transfer discussions. Cissé is tied to the club until 2028, having signed a long-term deal upon his arrival from West Africa. This contractual security allows Gent to demand the reported €15 million fee without pressure to accept lower bids.

As the transfer window progresses, the club must weigh the benefits of an immediate financial windfall against the potential value Cissé could generate through further development in their first team.

• Newcastle United and AFC Bournemouth want Torino’s scouting chief Enrico Paresce
• The 40-year-old Italian discovered stars including Theo Hernandez and Mile Svilar
• He previously worked with Bournemouth sporting director Tiago Pinto at AS Roma
• Paresce joined Torino last summer after working at French club Stade Rennes

Two Premier League clubs are competing to sign a top talent scout from Italy. Both Newcastle United and AFC Bournemouth have shown interest in Enrico Paresce, who currently leads the scouting department at Torino FC.

Reports from Italian media claim that officials from both English sides have made enquiries about the 40-year-old. Journalist Eleonora Trotta and Corriere dello Sport suggest that the clubs want to bring his expertise to the Premier League.

Paresce has built an impressive career despite his young age. He has previously worked as a scout for AC Milan, AS Roma, Spezia and Siena. During his time at Milan, he played a crucial role in identifying defender Theo Hernandez. He also spotted goalkeeper Mile Svilar for Roma.

Before returning to Italy last summer, Paresce served as scouting director at French club Stade Rennes. He now holds the same position at the Serie A side.

Bournemouth’s interest has extra significance because their sporting director Tiago Pinto knows Paresce well. The pair worked together at AS Roma. Newcastle United are also keen to strengthen their recruitment team with the Italian’s proven track record.

• Eli Junior Kroupi has scored 13 Premier League goals in his debut season, setting a new record for teenagers.
• The AFC Bournemouth striker is valued at approximately €100 million.
• Arsenal, the current English champions, are considering a summer bid for the France youth international.
• Paris Saint-Germain have denied interest in the 19-year-old despite earlier speculation.
• The French champions are reportedly targeting AS Monaco pair Maghnes Akliouche and Yan Diomandé instead.

Eli Junior Kroupi has enjoyed a remarkable first season with AFC Bournemouth. The 19-year-old striker has found the net 13 times in the Premier League, establishing a new record for adolescents in their debut campaign in the English top flight.

His outstanding performances have attracted interest from several elite clubs across Europe. Arsenal, who recently secured the Premier League title and reached the final of the UEFA Champions League, are weighing up a move for the French forward. The North London club see Kroupi as a potential addition to their attacking options ahead of next season.

Earlier reports suggested that Paris Saint-Germain were also monitoring the teenager. The French side, who defeated Arsenal in last weekend’s European final to retain their continental crown, were linked with a bid for the Bournemouth star. Some sources even claimed that Kroupi favoured a switch to the Parc des Princes.

However, fresh information indicates that PSG are not planning to pursue the striker. The reigning champions are looking to strengthen their forward line this summer, but they have identified alternative targets. The club are reportedly considering moves for AS Monaco talents Maghnes Akliouche and Yan Diomandé.

Industry experts value Kroupi at around €100 million. With PSG now out of the running, Arsenal may have a clearer path to secure the services of one of Europe’s most promising young talents.

• Liverpool FC reach verbal agreement with Andoni Iraola to become new head coach this week
• Spaniard leaves AFC Bournemouth after guiding them to sixth place and European qualification
• Ex-Reds midfielder Danny Murphy backs appointment to restore fan excitement
• Concerns raised over Iraola’s lack of experience at big clubs and in European competitions
• Club seeks return to high-energy, attacking style similar to Jurgen Klopp era

Liverpool FC are set to confirm Andoni Iraola as their new manager this week. The 42-year-old will take over from Arne Slot, who left the club on Saturday.

The Merseyside club acted quickly to find a replacement. They reached a verbal agreement with the Spanish coach on Tuesday.

Iraola joins from AFC Bournemouth, where he enjoyed an impressive campaign. He led the Cherries to sixth place in the Premier League last season. This achievement secured European football for the south coast club for the first time in their history.

However, some supporters worry about his background. He has never managed a major club before. He also lacks experience in European tournaments.

Danny Murphy, who played for Liverpool in the past, welcomes the move. He believes the fans will feel enthusiastic again.

“I am quite excited,” said Murphy, who now works as a television pundit. “When you watch Bournemouth play, you see courage. They press with high energy and play attacking football. There is no reason to think he will not do the same at Anfield.”

Murphy added that the supporters needed a change. “When fans become unhappy with the manager and his style, you are only delaying the inevitable. Bringing in Iraola gives the fans hope for the new campaign. They will not start the season with fear.”

Other coaches have found it difficult to step up to big clubs. Thomas Frank recently moved from Brentford to Tottenham Hotspur and faced problems.

Murphy does have some reservations. He thinks Iraola might be surprised by the pressure at Liverpool. “It is one of the biggest clubs in the world. Everything you do is scrutinised globally,” he explained.

The former midfielder also worries about fitness levels. “Klopp’s teams played with flying full-backs and dynamic midfielders. The current squad lacks legs and dynamism. The summer transfer window is huge for Liverpool. They need brilliant players who work hard off the ball.”

Slot won the league title in his first season in charge. However, his team finished fifth in his second year, 25 points behind champions Arsenal.

Peter Bolster, from the Spion Kop podcast, told BBC Radio Merseyside he feels excited again. “Large parts of last season I was not excited to watch Liverpool. Now I am excited for the project.”

Fan Ian Walker has mixed feelings. He said the poor style of play under Slot needed to change. But he noted the job has proved too much for some managers in the past.

Ste Plunkett, from The Redmen TV, thinks Iraola is a good fit. “Of the managers available, this seems obvious. He does not worry about reputation. He will go into the job invigorated.”

Liverpool want to return to front-foot, aggressive football. They hope Iraola can deliver a style similar to the one they played under Jurgen Klopp.

• AFC Bournemouth want to sign US Lecce centre-back Tiago Gabriel
• Scouts from the Premier League club watched the 21-year-old multiple times this term
• The Portuguese defender helped Lecce avoid relegation with 37 league appearances
• Bournemouth hope to arrange an initial loan deal with an option to buy
• Juventus and West Ham United have also shown interest in the player

Premier League side AFC Bournemouth have set their sights on young Portuguese defender Tiago Gabriel following his strong performances in Italy. The 21-year-old has impressed for US Lecce this season, prompting the English club to send scouts to watch him on several occasions.

Gabriel played a key role in helping Lecce secure their place in Serie A for another year. The club avoided relegation on the final day of the campaign, with the centre-back making 37 league appearances and scoring twice.

The defender only joined the Italian side in January 2025 from Estrela Amadora for a fee of €1.25 million plus additional bonuses. He represents one of several smart acquisitions made by sporting director Pantaleo Corvino.

According to Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, Bournemouth are keen to bring Gabriel to the Premier League. The Cherries believe they can negotiate a deal despite the player’s contract running until June 2027, with Lecce holding an option to extend it by a further two years.

The report suggests Bournemouth prefer an initial loan arrangement with the option to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season. Juventus and West Ham United have also previously monitored the Portugal youth international.

• Andoni Iraola reaches verbal agreement to become the new Liverpool head coach
• Spanish tactician faces massive step up from Bournemouth to Anfield giants
• Expert warns of intense media scrutiny and experienced player egos
• Unique man-management style relies heavily on assistant coaches
• Task to rebuild emotional connection with Liverpool supporters

Andoni Iraola is preparing to take charge at Liverpool after reaching a verbal agreement to replace Arne Slot. The Spanish manager faces a huge challenge moving from Bournemouth to one of England’s biggest clubs.

Sky Sports reporter Mark McAdam has watched Iraola closely during his time on the south coast. He believes the coach is ready for this new step, but warns that life at Anfield will be completely different.

At Bournemouth, Iraola dealt with small media groups. Only four or five journalists attended his press conferences. At Liverpool, he will face 25 to 40 reporters. On Champions League nights, the numbers could be even higher.

The attention from fans will also change. At Bournemouth’s training ground, Iraola could drive in quietly. At Liverpool, hundreds of supporters will wait for photos and autographs. He will become the centre of attention in the whole city.

McAdam says Iraola is humble and quiet, but this personality faces a serious test. The players at Liverpool are very different from those at Bournemouth. The squad includes Premier League winners and international stars.

At Bournemouth, Iraola worked with young players who wanted to move to bigger clubs. His job was to develop them and sell them on. Now he manages players who have already reached the top. These footballers have big egos and different needs.

Iraola also uses a special man-management style. He does not build close personal relationships with players. Instead, his assistants Tommy Elphick, Shaun Cooper and Pablo de la Torre handle personal matters. They learn about players’ families and problems, then report to Iraola.

This system worked well at Bournemouth. However, experts question if it will succeed with Liverpool’s experienced stars. Jurgen Klopp built strong personal bonds with his squad. Iraola works differently.

Despite these doubts, Iraola brings exciting football. He made Bournemouth supporters love watching their team. Even when results were poor, fans believed in his ideas. They enjoyed the style of play and trusted the process.

Liverpool supporters have felt disconnected from the team this season. Iraola must rebuild that emotional link. If he can bring the same passion to Anfield that he showed at Bournemouth, success may follow.

The Spanish coach faces one of the biggest jobs in world football. His ability to translate small-club success to the elite level will determine his future at Anfield.

• Alex Scott may earn his first senior cap for England during the upcoming friendly matches.
• The Bournemouth midfielder is part of a five-player supplementary group training in Florida.
• Thomas Tuchel praised Scott’s professional character after his squad disappointment.
• Five senior stars will join the camp later following their European final duties.
• Scott is the only additional player who can still break into the final World Cup squad.

Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott stands ready to receive his first England senior cap. The 22-year-old has travelled with the squad to Florida for their World Cup preparation camp.

Scott joins four other players as supplementary members of the group. Rio Ngumoha, Josh King, Jason Steele and Ethan Nwaneri complete the quintet training in the United States.

The England setup currently waits for five senior stars to arrive. Arsenal quartet Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, plus Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson, will report after their European final commitments.

Henderson should reach the camp within 24 hours. The Arsenal players will join over the weekend.

Although these five additional players missed the final World Cup selection, they remain eligible for the friendly matches against New Zealand and Costa Rica. They will stay with the team throughout the entire camp.

Scott holds a unique position among the supplementary group. He appeared in Tuchel’s provisional 55-man list, making him the only one who could potentially replace any injured players in the final tournament squad.

The midfielder first received a senior call-up last November for games against Serbia and Albania. However, he remained on the bench during those matches.

Tuchel excluded Scott from the March squad for fixtures against Japan and Uruguay. The German coach then left him out of the definitive 26-man World Cup roster.

Despite this, Tuchel explained his decision to bring Scott to America. He highlighted the player’s excellent reaction to the disappointment.

“The commitment and character he showed was outstanding,” Tuchel stated. “He wanted to stay close to the team. This was not even a question for him. It was a close call for the final squad, so I am delighted he is here.”

• Liverpool FC are negotiating with former AFC Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola to become their new head coach
• The Merseyside club dismissed Arne Slot last weekend after just one season in charge
• Iraola departed Bournemouth at the end of the recent campaign and is now unemployed
• Sporting director Richard Hughes is leading the recruitment drive at Anfield
• The Spanish coach wishes to bring his assistant Tommy Elphick, a lifelong Reds supporter, with him to the club

Liverpool Football Club are conducting advanced discussions with Andoni Iraola regarding their vacant manager position. The Reds removed Arne Slot from his post on Saturday, merely twelve months after the Dutchman secured the Premier League championship for the club.

The Anfield hierarchy are eager to complete this appointment without delay. They seek a leader who will implement aggressive, front-foot tactics on the pitch. Iraola matches this profile exactly.

The forty-three-year-old Spaniard left his previous role at Bournemouth when the season concluded. He has now emerged as the favourite to take charge on Merseyside.

Iraola hopes to recruit his former assistant, Tommy Elphick, to form part of his backroom staff. The thirty-eight-year-old former centre-back, who supports Liverpool, recently rejected the opportunity to manage Bristol City in order to consider other positions. Although the Reds have not yet approached Elphick directly, sources indicate he would welcome such a move.

Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s sporting director, is managing the entire selection process. Hughes worked closely with Iraola during their time together at the Cherries, which may help finalise this deal quickly.