A year ago
Based on Whoscored.com ratings, the Carabao Cup has officially revealed their team of the week, which is dominated by finalists Manchester United and Newcastle United. Man United took six spots, while Newcastle United took five, as the Carabao Team was made up of:
Goalkeeper
Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope took the top spot after making outstanding saves against Southampton and conceding only one goal in two legs while keeping a clean sheet.
Defence
After a strong showing in the Carabao Cup semi-finals, Manchester United's Lisandro Martinez and Aaron Wan Bissaka dominated the defense alongside Newcastle United's Burn and Schar.
Midfield
Manchester United's midfield was dominated by duo Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro Carlos, as well as Newcastle United's Longstaff.
Forwards
Wout Weghorst and Antony Santos lead Man United's attack alongside Joelinton after a dominant performance against their rivals in which they scored goals, provided assists, and created big chances.
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Liverpool handed major transfer boost after rivals 'damage' their chances of signing summer target
Liverpool have pushed for a big transfer after their rivals 'spoiled' their chances of signing a summer target
According to a new report, Liverpool have received a big boost after Arsenal 'spoiled' their chances of signing Moises Caicedo.
The Reds have endured a nasty winter transfer window as they only welcomed one newcomer, Cody Gakpo, who signed from PSV Eindhoven for an initial fee of £37m.
The Anfield side are still in dire need of midfield additions, with the likes of Fabinho, Thiago Alcantara and Jordan Henderson having been disappointing this season. Meanwhile, their students Naby Keita and Alex Oxlaide-Chamberlain will leave this summer when their contracts expire.
In return, Jurgen Klopp's side have been linked with some of the world's most sought-after midfielders, including Chelsea's record new signings Enzo Fernandez, Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham and Brighton's Caicedo. Liverpool, hoping for a more productive summer transfer window, have been motivated in their pursuit of the second player in particular.
Boost for Caicedo at Liverpool
According to Athletic, Liverpool's rivals in pursuit of Caicedo, Arsenal, have "damaged" their relationship with Brighton.
Indeed, the Premier League leaders saw two offers of up to £70m for the 21-year-old rejected by Brighton in January.
Arsenal knew in advance their £60m opening bid would be rejected by the Seagulls, but the Gunners had hoped they would at least initiate a negotiation for the player.
However, Mikel Arteta's side 'misjudged the situation' when Brighton rejected their offer within minutes and made it clear that Caicedo was not for sale. A day later, a call allegedly took place between Brighton owner and chairman Tony Bloom and Arsenal board member Tim Lewis in which Bloom reiterated that Brighton would not let the player go. Ecuador left in the middle of the season.
However, Arsenal once again tested Brighton's resolve with an offer of £65m plus a potential £5m add-on fee. It was rejected again.
Athletic claim Brighton is "confusing and angry" at Arsenal's persistence and the cordial relationship between the two clubs has been "broken".
Arsenal's fractured relationship with Brighton could benefit Liverpool. Meanwhile, the Reds' chances could also be boosted by Chelsea's £107m British record signing of Fernandez.
The Blues have turned their attention to Fernandez after seeing a £55m bid for Caicedo rejected last month.
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