Transfers

Lampard to replace Michael Beale as Rangers manager

Frank Lampard is reportedly interested in replacing Michael Beale as the next manager of Scottish Premiership side Rangers.
Beale, who managed Rangers for a total of 10 months, parted ways with the club on Sunday after three defeats in their first seven league matches this season.

Lampard was most recently the caretaker manager of Chelsea between April and May this year and recorded just one win in his 11 matches in charge before the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino.

With the Glasgow-based club currently looking for a new manager, Lampard is keen on discussing a potential deal at Ibrox, according to BBC Sport.

The former England international is without a club after he left Chelsea at the end of last season, when the club opted not to extend his interim deal.

Rangers currently have Steven Davis and Alex Rae serving as the interim management team.

Lampard began his managerial career with Derby County in 2018 and held a permanent role at The Blues from July 2019 to January 2021.

The 45-year-old also spent 44 games in charge of Everton and helped steer The Toffees away from the threat of relegation but was sacked at the start of this year after a ninth loss in 12 league matches.

Transfers

Disasi agrees personal terms with Aston Villa

Chelsea defender Axel Disasi is reportedly on the verge of joining Aston Villa after agreeing to personal terms ahead of a potential January transfer.

The Frenchman has struggled for regular game time at Stamford Bridge this season and is now set to make the move to Unai Emery’s side, who are looking to replace Diego Carlos following his recent departure.

According to Fabrizio Romano, via Football Transfer, Carlos joined Fenerbahce for €10 million, prompting Villa to identify Disasi as their ideal replacement. Romano shared on X:

“Axel Disasi has agreed on personal terms with Aston Villa.

“Disasi wants to join Villa despite interest from more clubs around Europe after direct talk with Unai Emery, crucial to get the green light.

“Deal now up to Chelsea and Villa to reach full agreement.”

Chelsea signed Disasi from AS Monaco for €45 million in 2023, but his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) has dropped significantly to €20.9 million due to limited playing opportunities this season. The 25-year-old has only featured in six Premier League matches during the 2024-25 campaign and has been left out of Chelsea’s matchday squad eight times since Enzo Maresca’s arrival last summer.

Transfers

EPL: Nottingham Forest desperate to sell out-of-favor Emmanuel Dennis

Nottingham Forest are facing difficulties in offloading striker Emmanuel Dennis before the transfer window closes.

The Nigerian forward has been out of favor under manager Nuno Espirito Santo and has not made a single appearance this season. Dennis’ last game for Forest was against Crystal Palace in May 2023.

The 27-year-old, who has 18 months remaining on his contract, is proving challenging to sell due to his high wages. Dennis currently earns £4 million annually, making him a costly option for potential suitors.

Discussions are ongoing with Watford, but his former club cannot meet his salary demands. Sheffield Wednesday have also expressed interest, but reports indicate their offer falls short of Forest’s expectations.

Transfers

Belgian club, KAS Eupen secure Nigerian striker Ejike on loan

Belgian club KAS Eupen has secured Nigerian striker Philip Ejike on a loan deal from Bulgarian side PFK Montana.

The agreement includes an option for the Pandas to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season.

Ejike impressed during his stint at PFK Montana, tallying 11 goals and two assists in 21 appearances.

The talented forward is set to join his new teammates in training immediately and could make his debut as early as Tuesday when KAS Eupen takes on SC Lokeren-Temse.

Mersad Selimbegovic’s team currently sits 13th in the league standings.