Iran v Australia: Women’s Asian Cup 2026 – live — and more

• Matildas lead 3-0 at half-time on the Gold Coast

• Any thoughts? Get in touch with an email

It’s obviously going to case a shadow over tonight’s match so, as a reminder, The Guardian is bringing you live updates on the crisis in the Middle East.

“These women are prisoners,” says Cyrus Jones, a human rights activist who will be attending the match. “Iranian security is up on their floor [of the hotel] at night. They can’t leave their rooms. They can’t use the public bathrooms. They’re monitored when they go for breakfast, when they get on the bus. They’re monitored in a way no other players from other teams are.

Liverpool and Man Utd Track Juventus Midfield Star Ahead of Summer Window

Interest in Juventus midfielder Khéphren Thuram is gathering pace ahead of the summer transfer window, with Liverpool and Manchester United among the Premier League clubs monitoring his progress. According to Caught Offside, the France international has emerged as one of the most intriguing midfield options available, even though Juventus maintain that he remains central to their long term plans.

Transfer speculation often develops gradually before accelerating suddenly. Thuram’s situation feels like one of those stories quietly building momentum behind the scenes.

Juventus Growth Elevates Midfield Reputation

Thuram’s development since arriving in Turin has been steady and impressive. Once viewed primarily as an energetic presence, he has matured into a well rounded midfielder capable of influencing games in several ways.

Standing 6ft 4in and blessed with natural athleticism, he combines physical authority with a willingness to carry the ball through midfield. Juventus have increasingly relied on him to provide balance between defensive responsibility and attacking transitions.

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His versatility also appeals to prospective buyers. Thuram can operate as a traditional box to box midfielder, sit deeper to protect the back line, or surge forward to support attacks when opportunities arise.

The numbers underline his importance. The 24 year old has made 35 appearances across all competitions this season, a reflection of his growing role within Juventus’ structure.

Premier League Recruitment Focus Intensifies

Sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside that both Liverpool and Manchester United are interested in signing the French midfielder to strengthen their squad and add depth in their midfield.

For Liverpool, the appeal is obvious. Adding physical presence and ball winning ability in midfield remains a priority as the club refine the balance of their squad. Reports suggest a package worth around €45 million plus bonuses could be explored.

Manchester United’s thinking is slightly different but equally clear. The club are beginning to plan for life beyond Casemiro and Thuram fits the profile of a younger, high energy midfielder capable of anchoring the next phase of their rebuild.

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Arsenal are also monitoring the situation, though their interest appears more cautious at this stage.

Juventus Hold Strong Negotiating Position

Juventus are not under immediate pressure to sell. Thuram is under contract until 2029, giving the Italian club considerable leverage if negotiations develop.

The expected valuation between €65 million and €75 million reflects his growing importance. While Juventus insist he remains integral to their project, the financial realities of elite football mean that few players are entirely beyond reach.

If the coming months bring formal offers, this could become one of the more intriguing midfield transfer stories of the summer.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Liverpool supporters, the idea of signing Thuram makes considerable sense. Liverpool’s midfield rebuild has already begun in recent seasons, yet supporters still debate whether the squad possesses enough physical authority and ball recovery in central areas. Thuram’s athletic profile would address exactly that concern.

Fans often appreciate midfielders who can dominate duels and carry the ball through pressure. Thuram appears capable of doing both. The question for Liverpool supporters is whether the club are prepared to meet Juventus’ valuation if it climbs towards €70 million.

Manchester United supporters will view the situation through a different lens. For many at Old Trafford, the coming years feel like a transition period in midfield. Casemiro remains influential, but will be leaving at the end of the season. Thuram fits the age profile and playing style United supporters often call for, energetic, durable and capable of covering large areas of the pitch.

There is also the Premier League factor. Players with Thuram’s blend of power and technical control often adapt well to the pace of English football.

Supporters of both clubs would likely agree on one thing. If this move becomes realistic, it will not stay quiet for long. Midfielders with this profile rarely remain available without attracting serious attention.

Some NFL teams have made some early moves to adjust their roster before the 2026 season. But we’re still in the quirky window between last season, and the start of the next season’s NFL calendar.

After the scouting combine, the NFL turns attention to free agency, then the NFL draft in late April.

And before you know it, we’ll have another NFL season on our hands.

Here are some important dates to know heading into the next season:

NFL offseason calendar 2026

Franchise tag window closes: March 3

Teams have until 4 p.m. ET to franchise or transition tag a pending free agent.

NFL legal tampering begins: March 9-11

The negotiation process begins between NFL teams and agents on players hitting the open market.

NFL free agency, new league year: March 11

The new league year begins at 3 p.m. ET, signaled by the first wave of free agent deals agreed to during the tampering window.

NFL league meetings: March 29 to April 1

NFL owners, lead executives and coaches will meet in Phoenix for the annual league meetings to discuss rule changes and other matters.