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DeutschKayo Extends F1 Deal, Angering Aussie Fans
The extension of the F1-Kayo partnership comes just before the Australian Grand Prix, continuing a deal that began with Foxtel in 2015. Fans have expressed disappointment on social media, with many calling for Apple TV to secure the rights instead, similar to what happened in the United States. Others have criticized Kayo's pricing structure, with plans ranging from $29.99 to $45.99 monthly.
Despite the backlash, the Australian GP will remain available for free on Network 10. Kayo recently added an F1TV commentary option after fans complained about perceived bias in the Sky Sports UK feed, particularly toward British driver Lando Norris over his teammate Oscar Piastri.
Report: Barcelona pushing to sign Tottenham Hotspur star this summer
Barcelona Monitoring Tottenham Defender as Transfer Plans Take Shape
Barcelona’s recruitment strategy continues to develop quietly behind the scenes as the club prepares for the next phase of its sporting project. Despite uncertainty around the upcoming presidential elections, internal planning remains active, with the sporting department continuing its assessment of potential reinforcements.
One area of particular focus is central defence. According to Sport, Barcelona scouts have intensified their monitoring of Micky van de Ven, the Tottenham Hotspur defender who has emerged as a notable option for the Catalan side.
The report explains: “Barcelona scouts have intensified their monitoring of one of the Premier League’s top left sided defenders.”
Barcelona Transfer Strategy Continues Despite Election Uncertainty
Barcelona’s internal planning has continued even with the club’s presidential election approaching. Final decisions are expected only after the new leadership structure is confirmed, yet groundwork for future transfers is already in motion.
As reported, “Barcelona’s planning has not stopped because of the presidential elections, although final decisions will not be taken until the winner of the vote is known.”
Sport indicate that the sporting department, working closely with Hansi Flick, has identified two clear priorities for the upcoming squad rebuild.
“The sporting department, aligned with Hansi Flick, continue preparing the new project with two clear objectives, signing a centre forward and bringing in a top level left footed central defender.”
One long standing target remains Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan. However, the financial complexity of that move means Barcelona are exploring other viable options.
Photo IMAGO
“One of the objectives is Alessandro Bastoni, although the operation is complicated due to the price and Inter’s reluctance to allow him to leave.”
Tottenham Defender Emerging as Realistic Option
Van de Ven has been on Barcelona’s radar for several months, with Sport previously outlining the club’s interest in the Netherlands international.
“Van de Ven has been on Barcelona’s agenda for months, as Sport reported several weeks ago.”
The defender is viewed internally as a profile that fits the type of centre back Barcelona are looking to recruit, though Bastoni remains the preferred choice.
“His profile appeals to the sporting department and fits the type of defender being sought, although Bastoni remains the priority.”
There is also speculation surrounding the player’s current situation in North London.
“The sporting situation of the Dutchman at Tottenham, heavily questioned by his own supporters and the environment around the London club, suggests an early exit could occur in the coming months.”
The report also suggests that Van de Ven may be open to a new challenge.
“The player does not wish to remain in a team in clear crisis and would even prioritise Barcelona’s interest above that of other clubs.”
Transfer Competition and Financial Reality
Van de Ven’s growing reputation means Barcelona are not alone in monitoring his situation. Within the Premier League, Liverpool FC have also shown interest.
“In the Premier League, Liverpool have shown interest in signing him, although Barcelona believe they would have priority if they decide to move forward.”
Barcelona’s recruitment team reportedly value the defender’s character and ability to progress the ball from defence.
“At Barcelona they appreciate Van de Ven’s personality and his strong vision of the game.”
His versatility adds to that appeal.
Photo IMAGO
“He can play as a left sided central defender and occasionally as a left back, and at 24 years of age he is at the perfect stage to make the leap to a major club.”
Van de Ven joined Tottenham from VfL Wolfsburg in 2023 for around €40 million and has since become a regular for the Netherlands national team.
“Now unquestioned with the Dutch national team, Van de Ven arrived at Tottenham from Wolfsburg in 2023 for around €40 million.”
Barcelona are aware that any deal would require a significant investment, with the defender currently valued at around €65 million.
“A defender with a current valuation of €65 million, although he could leave for slightly less.”
Sport also note that Barcelona’s coaching staff have examined certain aspects of his game closely.
“The main sporting doubt among Barcelona’s technical staff concerns the defender’s speed in some game situations.”
Those concerns relate to performances in certain Premier League matches this season, which have prompted further analysis by Barcelona’s recruitment team.
Even so, the report concludes that Van de Ven is now firmly among the club’s shortlist of defensive targets.
“The profile that fits best is Bastoni, but Van de Ven is gaining ground and is on the final list of options to reinforce the position.”
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
The Dutch defender has been one of the brighter defensive talents to emerge at Spurs in recent seasons. His pace, confidence in possession and ability to recover ground have been crucial in the Premier League, where defensive margins are extremely small.
Many Spurs fans would question the suggestion that he has been widely criticised by supporters. While Tottenham’s overall performances have attracted scrutiny, Van de Ven is often viewed as one of the players capable of anchoring the club’s long term defensive rebuild.
If Barcelona were to pursue him seriously, Spurs would face a difficult decision. A valuation around €65 million represents significant financial power, especially for a club potentially seeking funds to reshape its squad.
Supporters would likely argue that Tottenham must resist selling unless the offer becomes impossible to ignore. Allowing one of the team’s most promising defenders to leave could weaken an already fragile defensive structure.
Interest from Barcelona underlines Van de Ven’s growing reputation across Europe.
For Spurs fans, the hope will be that recognition leads to long term commitment rather than a transfer battle in the summer window.
Chris Sutton heaps incredible praise on title contenders
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton has heaped remarkable praise on Motherwell, claiming they are the most impressive team he has watched anywhere in Britain this season…
Jens Berthel Askou. Motherwell 1-1 theRangers. Scottish Premiership. Fir Park, 11 February 2026. Photo Vagelis Georgariou
The ex-Hoops forward, who now works as a pundit on both sides of the border, says the Steelmen’s dynamic approach under Jens Berthel Askou has left a lasting impression. Sutton believes the Dane has masterminded one of the most eye-catching transformations of the campaign.
Motherwell under Askou have rewritten the record books. Their 21st clean sheet of the season at the weekend against Dundee United set a new club record that rivals some of Europe’s elite. Incredibly, their back line has shipped fewer goals than the likes of Arsenal, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich this season.
At the other end of the pitch, Tawanda Maswanhise has been equally influential. The in-form forward leads the Premiership scoring charts with 16 league goals and 21 across all competitions, spearheading a Motherwell side currently sitting fourth in the table.
They trail the Hoops by just two points and are 10 behind leaders Hearts, while holding a game in hand against Dundee which will be played at the weekend.
Asked on Sky Sports how far Motherwell could go, Sutton delivered a glowing assessment of their prospects. “I wouldn’t rule Motherwell out,” he said.
“Motherwell have been the best team, and I really mean this, the best team I’ve seen this season, north and south of the border.”
“I think that they have a phenomenal coach, and for him to come up here, with the style that he has them playing – they have been an absolute joy to watch.”
“I really wouldn’t rule them out, and it wouldn’t surprise me if they went to Celtic Park in a couple of weeks and got a result there. They have been that good. I don’t think any team enjoys playing against Motherwell.”
Conor Spence
Celtic in the Thirties by Matt Corr. Click on image to order
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