Report: Everton are in the race to sign Barcelona starEverton Eye Hector Fort Transfer as Barcelona Open Door to Summer ExitEverton are exploring a move for Barcelona defender Hector Fort, with the 20-year-old now available this summer as the Spanish club reshape their plans. According to TeamTalk, Fort has been given permission to find a new club, and that development has quickly placed Everton in a competitive queue.The Merseyside club are understood to be keen on a permanent deal, which is significant given Barcelonas preference to cash in. As reported, Hector Fort has been told he can leave Barcelona this summer, with Everton and Fulham among the clubs keen to take advantage of the situation. That framing matters. Everton are not simply tracking a talented young defender, they are moving in a market where the selling club have already signalled their stance.Hector Fort Transfer Interest BuildsFort spent last season on loan at Elche and now appears to be entering a decisive phase in his career. Barcelonas view is clear, Barcelona are open to either a loan or permanent transfer, but TEAMtalk understands the Catalan giants would much rather sell Fort this summer. For Everton, that could create an opening if the finances are workable.Photo: IMAGOThere is competition. Fulham are in the mix, Inter Milan are watching developments and Racing Santander have made a loan approach. Liverpool have also been mentioned among clubs who admire the defender, although their defensive planning may now be heading in another direction. From Evertons perspective, the key point is that a permanent solution is available, and that suits their stated interest.Barcelona Defender Fits Everton NeedForts appeal comes from profile as much as price. He is young, technically schooled and capable across multiple defensive roles. The original report notes, Forts versatility is one of the reasons he has attracted such strong interest. He can operate at right-back and in other defensive positions. That versatility would naturally appeal to David Moyes, particularly in a squad that may need flexibility across a long campaign.Evertons search for a right-back has been well documented, and this latest update reinforces the wider picture. TEAMtalk has consistently reported how a new right-back is a top priority for Everton this summer. The club are still in discussions over Alistair Johnston, yet this Fort development suggests they are keeping several options alive at once.Everton Transfer Plans Could Shift FurtherThere is another detail worth noting. Two new faces could mean that Nathan Patterson is allowed to leave, with the Scottish international open to taking on a new challenge. If Everton do push hard for Fort, it may not be an isolated move. It could form part of a broader reshaping at right-back, with incoming competition and possible outgoing business linked together.For now, Everton appear firmly involved in the Hector Fort transfer race. Barcelona want clarity, the player needs first-team football and the Premier League club have a recognised need in that area. That combination gives this story substance as the summer window develops.Our ViewAs an Everton supporter, this is the kind of report that sparks genuine intrigue. Hector Fort feels like a smart market opportunity, a young Barcelona defender who may be available before his value really takes off. When you read that Forts versatility is one of the reasons he has attracted such strong interest, it is easy to see why Everton would be tempted.The most encouraging part is the permanent angle. Everton need to keep building with purpose, not just patch holes for a season. If Barcelona would much rather sell Fort this summer, then there may be a deal there for a club willing to be decisive. That should be Evertons mindset.There is also a wider squad logic to it. David Moyes will want defenders he can trust in more than one role, and Fort appears to offer exactly that. At 20, he would also fit the idea of bringing in players who can develop, improve and potentially become major assets.Of course, supporters will wonder whether Everton can get this done with Fulham and Inter Milan around, and with other right-back targets still being discussed. Yet that should not put the club off. If anything, it underlines the importance of acting early.From an Everton point of view, this feels like a signing with upside. It is not risk-free, no move at this level ever is, but it has clear logic. If the recruitment team believe Fort is ready for Premier League football, then this is one worth pushing hard on.

GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA - AUGUST 05: Brooks Koepka of the United States plays his shot in the green side bunker on the fifth hole during the Pro Am prior to the Wyndham Championship 2026 at Sedgefield Country Club on August 05, 2026 in Greensboro, North Carolina. (Photo by Caleb Bowlin/Getty Images)Getty ImagesThe Wyndham Championship marks the end of the regular season leading into the FedEx Cup Playoffs, and for two players, the tournament holds tremendous weight.Recently turned professional and college phenom Jackson Kouvin needs to finish 30th or better this week to qualify for his first FedEx Cup Playoff series. Kouvin turned professional following the NCAA Championship and U.S. Open. His Auburn Tigers won the national title at Omni La Costa.Kouvin missed the cut at the John Deere Classic but has since shown fortitude and an incredible golf game, winning the 3M Open and placing T-10 at the ISCO Championship and T-31 at the Rocket Mortgage Classic.In an interview with Yahoo Sports, Kouvin discussed the pressure of being on the playoff bubble: Yeah, I mean, I'll just try not to think about it too much. At the end of the day, it's an uncontrollable, and if I go play well, I can hopefully be inside of that top 70.Kouvin is tied for 15th place heading into the final round and sits in 70th place in the FedEx Cup standingsthe last man in. Mac Meissner sits in 71st place, 12 FedEx Cup points behind Kouvin. After Meissner missed the cut, Kouvin is guaranteed a playoff position.Returning to the PGA Tour this year, major champion Brooks Koepka has a chance to make the playoffs in his first season back.Yeah, I gotta play well this week. I feel like I've always done a pretty good job, like back's against the wall, and done pretty well, Koepka said in an interview published by Yahoo Sports. And hopefully take that this week. I think it'd beits a good opportunity to go out and go play well.Koepkas path into the FedEx Cup Playoffs seemed unlikely after withdrawing from the Rocket Mortgage Classic. He currently sits 86th in FedEx Cup points. This is Koepkas first tournament back since the Open Championship, where he tied for 28th.His lack of participation in tournaments following the event may have been his downfall in his attempt to make the playoffs. He will need a solo fourth-place finish at the Wyndham Championship, but that seems unlikely after a four-over-par third round left him well outside the leaders.This article was originally published on Forbes.com

EFL Cup first round - League One side Mansfield Town welcome Championship side Sheffield UnitedSunday's fixture is the only tie taking place on Sunday after a bumper Saturday Patrick Bamford gives the visitors the lead inside the opening five minutesGet Involved by clicking the yellow button at the top of this page EFL Cup: Sheff Utd lead early on at Mansfield - live text

Delano Burgzorg scores the winning penalty to take Preston into the Carabao Cup second round [Getty Images]It was an afternoon when much of the focus was on the location, but it ended in celebration.Preston North End booked their place in round two of the Carabao Cup after showing character and composure in a memorable match on Merseyside for two new signings.A red card for Lewis Gibson midway through the first half had Paul Heckingbottom's men on the ropes but they cleared their heads and found a way to hit back.Goodison Park became home for a day just under 60 years after Howard Kendall famously made the 35-mile journey from Preston to sign for the Toffees.'The Grand Old Lady' has played temporary host to visitors before, including Pele's Brazil in 1966, Sir Matt Busby's Manchester United and the FA Cup final in 1894 and 1910.With the finishing touches being made to Deepdale's pitch, the Championship side walked out in a slightly surreal atmosphere that finally grew as the 'home' side attacked the Gwladys Street End bearing Kendall's name.When Radinio Balker headed in for Huddersfield Town during the first half, Gibson's dismissal looked a fatal blow to any hopes of progression.Heckingbottom and his team deserve credit for a revitalised display after the restart, refusing to lose.Former Preston goalkeeper Alan Kelly looked completely mystified alongside me in the commentary box as several big appeals for penalties were waved away.The tide of the game kept flowing to our left and the Preston fans, despite their team's numerical disadvantage.Heckingbottom has been honest about how much more transfer business is needed, but new recruits Jusef Erabi and Delano Burgzorg wasted no time in making an impression from the bench.After earlier stinging the palms of Taylor with a ferocious drive, Erabi was on hand to turn in Burgzorg's low ball in stoppage time. A special debut with members of the Swede's family travelling from Scandinavia to watch first-hand.Burgzorg's contribution did not end there. The Dutchman coolly slotted in the decisive penalty in the shoot-out after Daniel Iversen had made two terrific saves.The match started with a testimonial-esque level of noise but by the end Preston fans found their voice, playing their part in seeing the team through an unusual fixture.Preston will have to wait a fortnight for their return to Deepdale. How different the squad will look by then remains to be seen.What will have pleased Heckingbottom is the steel and resilience shown by his players in the face of adversity. There will be many tests to come, but this one they passed.Their opening Championship game at Bolton Wanderers on Saturday (12:30 BST) will not be any easier.A sold-out away end of 4,400 may make the visitors feel at home on the road for the second week in succession.Listen to Jusef Erabi's full interview with BBC Radio Lancashire on BBC sounds here - and do not forget to subscribe to get each episode into your My Sounds feed.Latest Preston North End news, analysis and fan views

Wednesday, August 12thDAZN, 5:00 am ET Teremoana Teremoana vs DeAndre SavageFrom Gold Coast, Australia. Teremoana was a breakout from the 2024 Paris Olympics, arguably the 2nd best in the big boy division. Unfortunately, he caught a bad bracket and had to face professional Olympian Bakhodir Jalolov before the medal rounds. But, he earned himself enough attention to kickstart a pro career, and headlines the show in just his 12th professional outing. Savage is a 35 year old American with an 11-1 (11 KO) record, and much will be said about that in the commentary buildup to the main event. But, hes fought most of his career in Colombia and Mexico, and his two fights in the USA resulted in a no contest and his only pro loss. Michael Zerafa appears in support here against BoxRecs 194th ranked middleweight, Alejandro Ortiz. Teremoana is very exciting But, a 5 am Wednesday start for a relatively unknown prospect isnt exactly a live coverage gold mine. So, this will be a follow along thread in The Feed!, and Id expect at least one or two of the staffers here to jump in for the main event.Saturday, August 15thRedneck Brawl 14: Hillbilly Slugfest! (RedneckBrawl.TV, 7:30 pm ET)BLH will have live results and updatesFrom Johnson City, Tennessee. Its the greatest event in the boxing-adjacent business, and arguably one of the greatest sporting shows of any kind in modern America. If youre new to the Brawl, heres the recap of Brawl #13. Dozens of amateur fights with three one-minute rounds, fast pace, lots of action and excitement, and an unconventional but delightful commentary team guiding you through it all. The main event here features Frankie LaPenna, a Michigan man who apparently got online famous doing videos while wearing a fake butt, taking on brawl regular Sasquatch. Catfish Cooley is out from commentary again, with Stalekracker, a former police officer who now cooks Cajun food online to promote his thriving spice business and has a vibe that can best be described as a hybrid of Guy Fieri and Dog the Bounty Hunter, subbing in as a guest. Many beloved favorites return, including Tennessee Cornbread, Lil Smokey, Man Bear Pig vs Hook Hogan, Big Daddy T, and Lil Terry fighting Lil Fire after Fire knocked out Terrys brother Larry in 10 seconds in the last brawl. Its $22.99, and its the best entertainment value youll ever get.ON THE UNDERCARD: Lets spotlight some exciting new names, shall we? How about The Intubator? Can House Arrest handle the Macho Man? Any interest in The Toothless Assassin or Take-A-Shot Brandi? Wet Willie? One Leg Big Ed? Discount Destroyer? Mullet Trash? And, which will be the lady fight of the night? Throat Goat vs Big Thumper? Or 1st Class White Trash vs Trainwreck Tracy?Claressa Shields vs Kaye Scott (DAZN, 8:00 pm ET)BLH will have live results and updatesFrom Atlanta, Georgia, for Scotts WBC and WBA middleweight titles. Shields is the self proclaimed GWOAT, (Greatest Woman of All Time, presumably because Fran Dreschers lawyers are very protective of copyright) and effectively out of real challenges because of the talent gap between her and anyone near her size. Shields dabbled in MMA, tried to make being a female heavyweight champion a selling point, and now faces a unified middleweight champion in Scott. But, Scott is 5-1 as a pro with no knockouts, and 42 years old. Shields is -3000 to win. Its tough to make top level matchups in the womens pro game, and infinitely more so for someone like Shields.ON THE UNDERCARD: Tito Mercado faces Emmanuel Tagoe, who you may remember from his 2022 fight against Ryan Garcia. WBC champ Carolyn Veyre and IBO champ Bernice Ferreira have a super featherweight unification fight. Also, Troy Isley.

Phillies' Aaron Nola hopes to not miss time following injury scare originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.When Aaron Nola took the mound on Saturday night, it came with the hopes of tying up the Philadelphia Phillies' series with the Toronto Blue Jays, following their extra-inning loss during the opening match.The Phillies' starter would have himself quite a solid outing, taking to the rubber for five innings in which he would fan eight batters, allowing six hits, two earned runs, and two walks. All things considered, his outing against Toronto was one of his better outings since the All-Star break, as Nola has failed to record a win since the mid-Summer classic, posting an ERA of 4.50 in that stretch.However, Nola's night would come to an early end on Saturday night, after the Phillies pulled him following a line drive shot to the leg in the top of the sixth inning. The initial reports would be that the 33-year-old exited the match due to a right knee contusion.Nola is optimistic about his injury"Hope for a good week this week and the [pain] subsides really quick."Aaron Nola says he's still planning to make his next start. | @WapnerNewmanpic.twitter.com/z9e1HixXcz NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) August 9, 2026Despite getting drilled in the leg and suffering from a contusion on his right knee, and not feeling right during subsequent throws, Nola is hoping to make a comeback in his next start during the upcoming week."Yeah, I hit my knee, my inside of my right knee, and then my ankle, my ankle is good, but it kind of was hurting when I pushed off of it on those warm-up throws," stated Nola. "Hopefully, obviously, planning on making my next start and hope for a good week this week."Nola's next start is slated to be during the highly anticipated Field of Dreams series against the Minnesota Twins, which will take place in Dyersville, Iowa.For now, all eyes will be on the Phillies' ace to see if he recovers in time to make his 25th start of the season.More MLB news:Cardinals sign JJ Wetherholt to eight-year, $112.5 million contract extensionWhy Astros are trading Lance McCullers to the BrewersMason Miller shares honest thoughts on Yankees trade rumorsRed Sox trade rumor involving All-Star shortstop includes Yankees, BravesBlue Jays could do something crazy and trade for Bo Bichette

Chatham Town Women 1 Brentford Women 0: Bees end pre-season with narrow defeatBrentford Women fell to a 1-0 defeat against Chatham Town Women on Sunday afternoon at the Bauvill Stadium in their final pre-season fixture ahead of the new campaign.A solitary goal proved the difference as Carly Williams' side concluded their preparations for the 2026/27 season, with attention now turning to the start of the LSE Premier Division next weekend.Mya Francis-Pownall was inspired form on her first start as a Brentford Women's player, making two great stops from close range in quick succession to keep the scores level.The home side began the better of the two sides and were putting the Bees under pressure.Millie Constantine had a shot from distance to test the Chatham Town Women's goalkeeper and the latter tipped the ball past the past.Wiktoria Kiszkis was next to try from distance and again the goalkeeper did well to push the ball wide.The home side took the lead though as a looping header managed to beat Francis-Pownall who could do little to stop the good finish.The away side were the better of the two in the second period and Chelsie Berry had the best chance, smashing over the bar from close range following a scramble in the box.That was how the game would end as Williams' side would end their pre-season with defeat in Kent.Brentford Women now turn their attention to the start of their London & South East Regional Women's Premier Division campaign, which begins with a home fixture at their new home ground, Honeycroft, on Sunday 16 August.Brentford Women: Francis-Pownalll, Teale, Black, Louvrier, Harris-Walters, Phillips, Giddens, Constantine, Smith, Berry, Kiszkis.

Phillies get great sign on Luis Arraez's fit in Philly amid comment from ex-teammate originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Philadelphia Phillies made their big splash at the 2026 MLB trade deadline by acquiring Luis Arraez from the San Francisco Giants.He's been great for Philadelphia so far, and not just on the field. He's already become beloved by the fanbase, which, for one of his former teammates with the Giants, isn't a surprise.USA Today's Bob Nightengale shared comments from a former teammate of Arraez, Robbie Ray, on how the All-Star infielder would fit with the Phillies. These glowing remarks from Ray should make Phillies fans feel even better about the Arraez fit in Philly.Robbie Ray says Phillies 'will love' Luis Arraez"He's going to be great there," Ray said. "He's the definition of a professional. Obviously, he is who he is at the plate. It's not a secret with the batting titles. He works hard, and he cares. He puts the effort in, and you can see it. It's not like he's just out there Cadillac-ing it. He's the ultimate professional. They're going to love him."Ray believes that Arraez will be a great fit with the Phillies, and after just five games with the team, it's an understandable projection from Ray.Arraez has a .333 batting average with a .919 OPS with the Phillies in 21 at-bats with five RBIs, one home run, and two doubles, along with solid defense.Philadelphia sports fans have already fallen in love with Arraez, as his propensity to avoid striking out, consistently putting the ball in play, and his immediate impact on the team have Phillies fans very excited to see Arraez with the club.MORE:Dave Dombrowski reveals why Phillies didn't trade for a righty-hitting outfielderRay, a former teammate of Arraez for just one half-season together in San Francisco, knew Arraez would be a great fit for the Phillies.Not just with his on-field ability, but how he's perfect for the Phillies fan base that loves players like Arraez who put in the work and aren't playing selfish baseball.It's been a resounding success with Arraez in Philadelphia so far, so much so that it wouldn't be strange for the Phillies and Arraez to already consider a contract extension.He's exactly what this team has been missing, and if some of these other players in the lineup can turn the corner offensively, then the Phillies might have an offense that can go head-to-head against any other team in baseball.More MLB news:Phillies receive slightly worrying 65% playoff odds projection from ESPNRed Sox get 8.2% chance to win World Series, which is more than Yankees oddsEx-MLB GM wishes Braves had traded 22-year-old RHP prospect for Orioles' All-Star Trevor RogersBrewers toyed with idea of trading for Padres closer Mason MillerTigers feared Tarik Skubals trade market would disappear if they waited too long to trade him

The Cincinnati Reds and Washington Nationals wrap up their weekend series at Nationals Park on Sunday, August 9, with an MLB Sunday Leadoff matchup streaming on Peacock.Aug 7, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals left fielder Daylen Lile (4) celebrates with Nationals third base coach Victor Estevez (7) while rounding the bases after hitting a three run home run against the Cincinnati Reds during the first inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn ImagesHow to Watch Reds vs NationalsDate: Sunday, August 9, 2026Time: 12:15 PM ETChannel: PeacockStream: Peacock (watch now)Cincinnati enters the weekend in the middle of a crowded National League playoff race, making every game increasingly important as the regular season moves deeper into August. The Reds have leaned on a young roster while trying to stay within striking distance of a postseason spot, and this series against Washington gives them an opportunity to pick up valuable wins before a challenging closing stretch. Live Stream Reds vs Nationals with Peacock Washington has endured another difficult season in the standings, but the Nationals remain capable of making things uncomfortable for contenders behind a young core headlined by James Wood. Cincinnati is scheduled to send Brady Singer to the mound for Sundays finale, with the right-hander carrying a 5-10 record and 4.67 ERA into the weekend. First pitch is scheduled for 12:15 p.m. ET at Nationals Park, with the game available on Peacock.This is a great MLB matchup that you will not want to miss; make sure to tune in and catch all the action.Live stream Reds vs Nationals on Peacock: Start your subscription now!With Peacock, you can watch live television without cable on your phone, TV, or tablet. They carry a wide array of sports and entertainment channels, including every Sunday Night Baseball game throughout the MLB season.Regional restrictions may apply. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation.Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead

Rohit Sharma's 2027 World Cup future has become a talking point again, but former India teammate Ajinkya Rahane believes there should be no uncertainty surrounding the veteran opener's place in the squad.Rahane, who retired from all forms of cricket last month, has called on the Indian team management to give Rohit a clear commitment over his World Cup future rather than assessing his place from one series to another.The debate around Rohit's international career intensified during India's ODI tour of England last month. Speculation grew after a media report claimed that the former India captain could call time on his career at the end of the tour.Those reports were subsequently dismissed by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia and Rohit himself. The uncertainty, however, has not completely disappeared, with reports now suggesting that the selectors may have reservations about including the veteran in India's squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup.Rahane, though, feels there should be no discussion about Rohit's place if the opener is willing to continue until the tournament.I think its important to tell Rohit Sharma that hes going to play the 2027 World Cup, Rahane said. If you see his contribution throughout so many years, its been amazing. So you need the experience of such a player in the World Cup. That discussion shouldnt even happen. If you say once, Rohit Sharma, youre going to play, thats it. You cant go series by series because hes such a big player.According to Rahane, constantly questioning an experienced player's position can have an impact on his mindset and rhythm. He believes players perform best when they know where they stand within the team.If you treat a big player like that, because as I said, its about rhythm. Cricket is about rhythm. No matter how many matches youve played, whether youre a youngster or an experienced player in the team, its about rhythm. If your mind is free, you can play with that mindset.Rahane also insisted that Rohit's credentials and experience should not be up for debate, particularly with a major tournament such as the 2027 World Cup on the horizon.As for Rohits quality, theres no need to even speak about it. Such experience is needed in the team, so this debate shouldnt even happen between the team management and the captain. Agar unko khelna hai 2027 World Cup, toh unko khelna hai, he added. (If he wants to play in the 2027 World Cup, then he should play.)The latest round of speculation comes despite Rohit making a strong statement on the field during the England series.Saikia had previously rejected reports that the third ODI against England would be Rohit's final match in the format. Rohit followed that up with a commanding century in the game, providing a timely reminder of his value to the Indian side.Yet, the questions returned shortly afterwards. Some media reports claimed that the BCCI leadership and selectors were not completely aligned on Rohit's future. While the report suggested there was support for the veteran within the board's top brass, it also stated that the selectors were considering moving on from him before the 2027 World Cup.With the tournament still ahead, Rohit's future remains a subject of discussion. Rahane, however, believes India should make its decision clear and allow the experienced opener to focus on preparing for the biggest ODI assignment on the calendar.