Man Utd want to sign La Liga striker in January

Manuel Akanji has been given permission to talk to Premier League side Crystal Palace, as the Eagles have reportedly had a bid of andamp;pound;15 million accepted for the centre-back. Swiss international Akanji helped Man City to several titles, but Pep Guardiola wants to freshen up his defence for the current campaign and will allow the former Dortmund star to leave

In modern football, tactics have evolved into complex systems that depend heavily on individual player traits. Whether it’s a forward’s instinct for space or a midfielder’s passing vision, managers now tailor tactics around the core attributes of their squad. As formations become more fluid, it’s the specific traits of each player — not just their position — that determine their tactical role on the pitch.

Christopher Nkunku has flown to Italy today to undergo a medical with AC Milan, after the forward’s future appeared to be settled and a transfer to Serie A on the verge of completion. Chelsea have accepted a transfer bid of around 42 million euros for the France international, and the striker will now try his luck in a different country and new league.