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Inflation eases to 2.6 per cent thanks to drop in fuel prices – but it is set to spike higher next month after re-start of US-Iran war

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Inflation eases to 2.6 per cent thanks to drop in fuel prices - but it is set to spike higher next month after re-start of US-Iran war

UK inflation eased last month to its lowest rate in 15 months in a temporary boost for the new Prime Minister ahead of a jump in the household energy price cap.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) confirmed today that the rate of Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation fell to 2.6 per cent in June from 2.8 per cent in May.

This was the lowest level since March 2025 and comes after food and fuel prices dropped in an early encouragement for the cost-of-living-focused Andy Burnham.

The drop is bigger than expected, given most economists had predicted a sharp fall in petrol and diesel prices would have helped pull the rate down to 2.7 per cent.

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The rate of food and non-alcoholic drink inflation was 1.7 per cent, down from 2.2 per cent the previous month amid ‘intense competition between supermarkets’. 

The RAC said the average price of a litre of diesel at UK forecourts dropped by more than 16p from the start to end of June – the largest fall since records began in 2000.

This was driven by news of an interim ceasefire deal between the US and Iran, prompting oil prices to fall below pre-crisis levels.

While energy prices have dropped, economists are viewing this as temporary relief before Ofgem‘s new energy price cap took effect at the beginning of July.

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The latest cap was up by 13 per cent compared with the previous rates, meaning the typical household’s gas and electricity bill will increase by £221 to £1,862 a year.

Tensions in the Middle East have also flared again and Brent crude oil prices have been rising during July.

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ONS chief economist Grant Fitzner said: ‘A fall in motor fuel prices, particularly diesel, helped ease inflation in June.

‘Food prices fell this month, driven by products including chocolate, margarine and beef. Clothing prices also fell with the start of summer sales, with bigger discounts than last year.

‘The cost of raw materials dipped for the first time since January, mainly due to the lower price of crude oil, while the increase in the costs of goods leaving factories slowed again.’ 

The latest data comes two days after Andy Burnham took the reins and formed a new Cabinet.

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Mr Burnham announced yesterday that electricity bills will be VAT-free from October 1, saving households about £45 a year as part of the new Prime Minister’s promise to ease cost-of-living pressures.

Cutting VAT from 5 per cent to 0 per cent is estimated to reduce CPI inflation by around 0.1 percentage points when it comes into effect, according to the Government.

This morning, Mr Burnham also announced that single bus fares across England would be capped at £2 from January.

Newly appointed Chancellor John Healey said: ‘Falling inflation is news families want to hear but there is much more to do to give people the breathing space they need.

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‘That is why yesterday we cut VAT on electricity bills and today we’re announcing a £2 cap on bus fares from January.

‘We have chosen to focus on the cost of living in our first week, signalling that concern for working people will be at the heart of everything we do.

‘Both these changes are a win-win. They help keep inflation down while helping people afford the essentials.’

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Investors expect the Bank of England to keep its benchmark interest rate at 3.75 per cent next week as it continues to assess the impact of the Middle East conflict.

Some policymakers who voted to increase borrowing costs in June are worried about the risks of inflation persistently overshooting the ​2 per cent target.

Financial markets yesterday priced in one or possibly two quarter-point interest rate increases by the end of in 2026.

Responding to the inflation figures, British Retail Consortium economist Harvir Dhillon said: ‘The drop in both headline and food inflation is good news for households, who are benefitting from summer deals.

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‘Food inflation had a particularly notable drop, its lowest in almost two years, with prices falling on the month. 

‘This was driven largely by intense competition between supermarkets, trying to entice their customers during a warm spell of weather, despite supply chain pressures.’

He added: ‘Retailers are already facing immense financial pressure, squeezed by higher National Insurance, the triple packaging tax, and other input cost increases tied to the conflict in Iran.

New Chanceller John Healey and Prime Minister Andy Burnham at Downing Street on Monday

New Chanceller John Healey and Prime Minister Andy Burnham at Downing Street on Monday

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‘If retailers are to keep prices affordable for consumers in the long run, the Government needs to take practical steps to lower the everyday cost of doing business.’

Thomas Pugh, chief economist at RSM UK, said falling oil prices after the interim ceasefire agreement were the ‘main drag on inflation in June’.

‘However, oil prices have rebounded in July as tensions escalate which means inflation is still likely to peak at around 3.4 per cent in November,’ he added.

He cautioned that food prices could ‘rebound later this year, as higher energy and fertiliser prices due to the conflict in the Middle East make their way through supply chains’.

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Sanjay Raja, chief UK economist for Deutsche Bank, said to expect a ‘bumpy path’ ahead.

‘While we’re nowhere close to the peaks seen during the height of the Iran conflict, the energy disinflation path remains uncertain,’ he said.

He also warned that food price rises could be on the horizon.

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Wisconsin police shooting fuels anger in community and leaves questions on how the ‘execution’ happened

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Wisconsin police shooting fuels anger in community and leaves questions on how the ‘execution’ happened

A fatal police shooting in Madison, Wisconsin, has fueled anger in the community as harrowing footage appeared to show the moment an officer killed a man at point-blank range in the middle of the street.

The victim, believed to be in his 30s and has not yet been identified, was seen in the cellphone footage struggling with several Madison Police Department officers before one of them fired the fatal shot Wednesday afternoon.

“This was an execution, and it never should have happened,” said Fran Hong, a Democratic state representative running for governor.

Citizens reacted to the tragedy by marching on the State Capitol to protest, chanting, “Arrest the cops!” and later took over the stage at a downtown summer concert to draw attention to the killing, prompting the organizers to cancel the performance underway.

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Madison Police Chief John Patterson warned the public against leaping to conclusions about the circumstances surrounding his death based on footage widely shared on social media.

Here is everything we know about the case so far

A fatal police shooting in Madison, Wisconsin, has fueled anger as harrowing footage appeared to show the moment an officer killed a man at point-blank range in the middle of the street
A fatal police shooting in Madison, Wisconsin, has fueled anger as harrowing footage appeared to show the moment an officer killed a man at point-blank range in the middle of the street (Michael Doubek)

What happened?

Bystanders have shared disturbing footage of the shooting that took place Wednesday at the busy intersection of Madison’s South Baldwin and Williamson Streets around 1:34 p.m.

Madison Police Department said officers were responding to a report alleging that someone had been seen attempting to break into parked cars in the city’s Marquette neighborhood, according to a statement.

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The video showed the man, who police said was armed with a knife, being pinned to the ground by several officers after a pursuit on foot.

A “physical struggle” ensued and an officer yelled, “taser, taser taser,” but was unable to discharge the weapon, police said.

Bystanders have shared disturbing footage of the shooting that took place Wednesday at the busy intersection of Madison’s South Baldwin and Williamson Streets around 1:34 p.m.
Bystanders have shared disturbing footage of the shooting that took place Wednesday at the busy intersection of Madison’s South Baldwin and Williamson Streets around 1:34 p.m. (Michael Doubek)

Officers wrestled the man to the floor, when one of them pulled out his weapon and appeared to fire several shots at close range. The victim was then seen slumped on the ground and did not move again. He was taken to the hospital and pronounced dead.

The Madison Police Department said the officer who fatally shot the man, “considered a veteran,” was injured by the deceased who “pulled out a fix-blade knife” while resisting arrest.

A second officer was injured in the incident but police have not said how, only that they do not believe his wound was caused by the knife.

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The four officers involved have since been placed on administrative leave according to procedure and the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation has commenced an independent probe.

Protesters march after a police officer shot and killed a man Wednesday in Madison, Wisconsin
Protesters march after a police officer shot and killed a man Wednesday in Madison, Wisconsin (AP)

How has the community reacted?

Protesters gather at a candlelight vigil for the victim Wednesday evening
Protesters gather at a candlelight vigil for the victim Wednesday evening (AP)

Police Chief Patterson appealed for calm at a press conference in the aftermath, recounting the official narrative and pointing out that video of the shooting seen online only offered one side of the story.

He offered few details about the victim’s identity, other than to say he was a man believed to be in his 30s.

Incumbent Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers called for “transparency and accountability” on X, expressing his sympathies for the victim’s family and saying that any protest should be conducted “peacefully and respectfully.”

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Octagon car park Bolton faults led to queuing motorists

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Octagon car park Bolton faults led to queuing motorists

Motorists attempting to get into the Octagon car park on Great Moor Street were left waiting on the road until help arrived.

Some drivers decided they couldn’t wait and turned around.

A loss of power meant one of the shutters could not open and Town Hall chiefs say that steps are in place to rectify this.

There are two entrances into the car park, which is used by shoppers and town centre workers as well as visitors to Bolton town centre.

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Cars outside the Octagon car park (Image: NQ)

In addition there was a ticket jam on the other entry point, where the shutter did work.

It is understood that there are no delays in accessing the car park currently.

The car park shutters were introduced a few years ago as part of security measures a

Shutters were installed at both the entrance and exit barriers, while scanners have also been put in place outside the pedestrian entrances, meaning people need to scan their ticket to be allowed access.

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The Octagon car park is one of a number of multi-storey car parks in the town centre which are still managed by NCP, despite the fact the he car parking giant announced back in March that it was going into administration, putting the car parks it runs across the country at risk.

A council spokesperson said earlier this year: “We continue to work with the appointed administrators at PwC to ensure that NCP assets remain fully operational.

“In Bolton, this includes town centre multi-storey car parks, surface level car parks and CCTV networks, all of which are operating as normal.

“Negotiations between administrators and stakeholders can be a lengthy process but in the meantime residents, commuters and visitors to Bolton will notice no difference when parking in the town centre.

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“The council will keep residents and businesses informed throughout this process and will provide full updates if there is any change to NCP car parks in Bolton.”

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Police missed chance to examine Manchester synagogue attacker’s phones

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Rachel, a woman with straight shoulder-length blonde hair wearing a graduation cap. She has a nose stud, and wears light pink lipstick.

A police chief has apologised after admitting phones were seized from the Manchester synagogue attacker months before the car and knife assault but they were not examined.

Jihad Al-Shamie, 35, was on bail for an alleged rape when he carried out the attack on Heaton Park Synagogue in Crumpsall on 2 October 2025, in which two Jewish men were killed.

His devices, which contained evidence of his extreme views, were seized after he was arrested in February and September but not analysed.

Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson said he was “deeply sorry”, conceding that “the information contained within these devices would have inspired further investigative action”.

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Sir Stephen said: “In conducting an internal review, it became apparent that GMP had seized Al-Shamie’s mobile devices, at the point of each arrest.

“The significance of the data contents of these devices was substantial in respect of evidencing an extremist mindset.

“I am disappointed at the prospect of adding to the distress of all of those affected by the terrible events last October.

“For this, I am deeply sorry.”

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The apology came after Mohammad Bashir was jailed for life with a minimum term of 17 years for plotting a separate attack with Al-Shamie at the UK’s Defence Academy in Shrivenham.

Details emerged in the case at Manchester Crown Court that the pair had been discussing their extremist views in WhatsApp chats, including preparing for a “war”.

The court was played footage showing the moment Al-Shamie and Bashir discussed becoming martyrs.

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Teen fined after leaking referee’s address after controversial penalty award

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Daily Record

Corey Davies got the personal details when the whistler’s wife put her car in for repairs at the garage where the 19-year-old worked.

A teenage mechanic has been fined more than £700 after sharing football referee John Beaton’s address and phone number online following a controversial penalty decision in a key Scottish Premiership match.

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Corey Davies got the personal details when the whistler’s wife put her car in for repairs at the garage where the 19-year-old worked.

Beaton and spouse Laura then received numerous calls from unknown numbers.

Beaton was placed under police surveillance amid fears for his safety after he awarded a late spot kick to Celtic in their 3-2 win at Motherwell on May 13.

The decision came in the dying seconds of injury time with the score 2-2.

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Beaton was alerted by VAR to a penalty box incident and, after viewing TV footage, awarded a penalty for handball against Motherwell defender Sam Nicholson.

Kelechi Iheanacho netted to seal a vital three points for Celtic.

Three days later Celtic beat long time leaders Hearts 3-1 to pip the Edinburgh side to the title.

A Scottish Football Association panel later ruled that the penalty should not have been given.

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Police were alerted when it was discovered that Beaton’s details had been leaked on social media. Davies, of Mauldslie Road, Carluke, appeared at Hamilton Sheriff Court this week.

He admitted breaching the Data Protection Act 2018 by disclosing personal details without consent.

He was working at a Park’s of Hamilton garage at the time.

Cameron Murdoch, prosecuting, said Beaton was watching his son playing football the night after the controversial match when he received a call.

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Mr Murdoch told the court: “He answered, believing it to be a work call, and heard a voice saying ‘Hello. Is this John Beaton?’.

“Further calls were received and, due to the number of them, Mr Beaton believed his phone number had been leaked.

“He then received communication from the SFA saying that a Park’s director had been made aware that someone in the business had leaked Mr Beaton’s personal information.

“Numerous ‘No ID’ phone calls were received by Mr Beaton. He and his wife continued to receive calls and voicemails throughout the night.

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“They began the process of changing their numbers.”

Park’s bosses found that Davies had photographed Laura Beaton’s job card that contained the family’s address, mobile phone numbers and her car registration number.

Defence lawyer Michael Poggi said Davies shared the photo with three friends on Snapchat and one of them distributed it further.

Mr Poggi said the first offender has ADHD and his actions were “spontaneous and ill-judged but not malicious”.

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The solicitor added: “He apologises to the complainers for the distress they obviously had.

“His actions were foolish and cost him his job but, given his otherwise good professional reputation, he has been able to secure alternative employment.”

Sheriff John Hamilton KC fined Davies £666 and added a victim surcharge of £40.

He told the accused he had acted in an “immature and stupid” way but acknowledged his lack of previous offending and early guilty plea.

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The sheriff added: “Someone older than you would have been more able to foresee the consequences of doing this.

“This should be a message to you that there is a responsibility when you have such information.”

Last week Motherwell’s Elliot Watt was given a four-match ban for branding Beaton’s penalty award “the worst VAR decision in history”.

The SFA condemned the online leak as an attempt to “compromise the safety” of the referee.

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In a statement it said: “Such vigilantism, motivated by decisions perceived to be right or wrong on a field of play, is a scourge on our national game.

“This is the inevitable consequence of the heightened criticism, intolerance and scapegoating demonstrated this season by media pundits, supporters, official supporters’ groups, clubs, players, managers and former match officials.”

*Don’t miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.

And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.

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Woman injured in assault on Hartington Road, Stockton

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Woman injured in assault on Hartington Road, Stockton

Police were called to Hartington Road around 4pm on Wednesday (July 22) where a woman was found injured.

She had suffered facial injuries which are not believed to be serious, Cleveland Police said.

Another woman, aged 33, was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm, possession of a knife and possession of cocaine.

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She remains in police custody at this time.



A spokesperson for Cleveland Police said: “Shortly after 4pm on Wednesday police were called to Hartington Road in Stockton following reports of an assault of a woman.

“Officers attended the area, and the woman was taken to hospital with injuries to her face that are not believed to be serious.

“A woman, aged 33, was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, possession of a knife and possession of cocaine. She is currently in police custody.”

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Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal announce signing Christos Tzolis and identify new targets after William Saliba blow, Liverpool hijack PSG’s bid for winger Maghnes Akliouche, Chelsea agree Alejandro Garnacho exit

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Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal announce signing Christos Tzolis and identify new targets after William Saliba blow, Liverpool hijack PSG’s bid for winger Maghnes Akliouche, Chelsea agree Alejandro Garnacho exit

New Arsenal forward Christos Tzolis ‘hungry’ after signing for Gunners

Arsenal have confirmed the signing of 24-year-old Greece international winger Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge. Tzolis arrives for a fee of around £34m and follows the departure of Premier League winner Leandro Trossard.

He scored 22 goals and made 29 assists for Club Brugge last season as they won the Belgian title.

“It’s absolutely amazing to sign for such a big club, the champions of England. I’m very proud to be part of this team for the next season,” Tzolis told Arsenal’s official website.

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“When my agent was saying maybe it was a possibility, I was already excited. Afterwards it was getting more serious and now I’m here.”

“I had a nice conversation [with Mikel Arteta]. It was around an hour. We talked about everything, about the club, about myself, about his plans, about me of course, about the team. It was only positive things.”

Jamie Braidwood23 July 2026 13:09

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Barcelona sign Germany winger to add more speed to attack

Karim Adeyemi has joined Barcelona from Borussia Dortmund.

The German forward will cost €22m (£18.8m) plus €7m (£6m) add-ons, while Dortmund also get a sell-on clause.

The Germany international, 24, scored three and assisted two more in nine Champions League appearances last term, while his total of seven goals and four assists from 28 Bundesliga appearances also provided a glimpse of his production.

It brings another speedster to Hansi Flick’s side, with Anthony Gordon, Lamine Yamal and Raphinha offering dangerous counter-attacking options for the Spanish champions.

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Jack Rathborn23 July 2026 12:57

Chelsea linked with World Cup star Kerim Alajbegovic

Chelsea have emerged as front-runners in the race to sign Kerim Alajbegovic, who impressed for Bosnia and Herzegovina at the World Cup.

The 18-year-old rejoined Bayer Leverkusen shortly before the tournament and The Telegraph reports that Xabi Alonso’s side are set to rival Juventus for the attacker.

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Alonso was in charge of Leverkusen as Alajbegovic came through their academy, but he joined Red Bull Salzburg before making his first-team debut.

(Getty)

Jamie Braidwood23 July 2026 12:37

Man City and Arsenal to rival for Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi?

While interest in Bruno Guimaraes swirls, a younger option for Mikel Arteta and Arsenal is Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who caught the eye with a number of impressive performances for Morocco at the World Cup on their run to the quarter-finals.

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The 18-year-old is physical, composed on the ball and has a good range of passing, which has attracted the interest of some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Manchester City may actually lead the race ahead of Arsenal for the youngster, who is valued at around €100m (£85m), especially with L’Equipe reporting that PSG have pulled out of the running.

City are said to be keen to integrate Bouaddi into the first-team squad immediately, whereas other suitors may send him back on loan to Lille for a season.

(Getty)

Jamie Braidwood23 July 2026 12:17

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Guglielmo Vicario left out of Tottenham squad for pre-season tour

Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario has been left out of the club’s 35-man squad that will travel to New Zealand and Australia for a pre-season tour.

The Italian is likely to leave the club this summer but Spurs have explained that he has picked up a “minor knock” in training.

Lucas Bergvall, has travelled, however. The midfielder is a key target for both Newcastle and Nottingham Forest this summer, with the Magpies recently having a £46m bid turned down for the 20-year-old Swede.

Spurs have also turned down an approach from Forest, which was said to be lower than Newcastle’s bid, as they’re keen to recoup a higher fee, with Bergvall under contract until 2031.

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Newcastle and Forest have lost Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson respectively this summer, so are eyeing midfield reinforcements and Bergvall is keen to move on after not getting the opportunities in his preferred No 8 position under Roberto De Zerbi.

Guglielmo Vicario is expected to leave Tottenham this summer
Guglielmo Vicario is expected to leave Tottenham this summer (Getty)

Jamie Braidwood23 July 2026 11:57

Newcastle close in on £35m deal for midfielder

Newcastle are set to make their fourth signing of the summer after agreeing a £35.5m deal for Monaco midfielder Aladji Bamba.

Sky Sports News are reporting that Bamba has landed in Newcastle ahead of undergoing a medical. The 20-year-old made 18 appearances for the Ligue 1 side last season.

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Newcastle have sold both Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali to big-money transfers, while captain Bruno Guimaraes is heavily linked with a move to Arsenal.

The Magpies have so far signed goalkeeper Ewen Jaoue, winger Bazoumana Toure and midfielder Sean Steur.

(Getty)

Jamie Braidwood23 July 2026 11:36

Chelsea set to win race for £30m-rated Bosnia starlet

Chelsea have spent £117m on Morgan Rogers and hope he is approaching the final product, but they have an eye on the future too, with Bosnia starlet Kerim Alajbegovic on their radar.

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The 18-year-old scored in the World Cup and plays for Bayer Leverkusen, with Chelsea now the favourites to sign him, reports the Telegraph.

A £30m fee has been floated for Alajbegovic, who only just returned to Leverkusen following a year with Red Bull Salzburg.

Sergino Dest of the USA in action with Bosnia and Herzegovina's Kerim Alajbegovic
Sergino Dest of the USA in action with Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Kerim Alajbegovic (Reuters)

Jack Rathborn23 July 2026 11:17

Will Liverpool step up Bradley Barcola interest as they chase a winger?

Bradley Barcola was part of France’s fearsome attack at the World Cup and Liverpool have now moved into the box seat to sign him from PSG as they hunt for a Mohamed Salah replacement.

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Barcola was only a bit-part player for PSG last season and the French side are targeting either Yan Diomande or Maghnes Akliouche to upgrade their wing options, leaving the 23-year-old as potentially surplus to requirements. Arsenal are also interested but Liverpool have reportedly made an official bid, with PSG weighing their options.

When asked about his targets this summer, Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola said a wide player was top of his list.

“There are obvious situations where we need to sign players. Winger for example, we definitely need to sign a winger, but there are other situations where we will have to analyse what the market gives you, what is the cost, how we also see the players we have,” he said.

(PA)

Jamie Braidwood23 July 2026 10:57

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How can Chelsea afford Rogers without European football?

The simple maths of Chelsea’s transfer dealings show that they have already brought in a hefty amount from sales with Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid (£52m), Andrey Santos to Manchester United (£50m), Tyrique George to Everton (£24m) and Enzo Maresca’s compensation to join Man City worth £17m.

More could be yet to come with Trevoh Chalobah linked with a move away, while Enzo Fernandez’s future is unclear, while Alejandro Garnacho could join Villa in a separate deal, with Uefa’s rules clear on deterring player exchanges at inflated fees, with any deals within 45 days of each other classified as such.

But beyond swap deals, Chelsea can simply be creative when it comes to Financial Fair Play, applying all of the money generated from sales immediately to the accounts, while spreading the Rogers fee out across five years, with just £23.4m due this year.

The pay-off comes down the line if Chelsea ever struggle to generate immediate revenue from sales, though the world class Cobham academy is an asset that should provide comfort in this regard.

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(Reuters)

Jack Rathborn23 July 2026 10:37

MLS investigating Casemiro move to Inter Miami amid allegations of tampering

Former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro has completed his transfer to Inter Miami – but the deal is now being investigated by Major League Soccer (MLS) amid claims of tampering.

Casemiro’s discovery rights were held by LA Galaxy, and by league rule that would have prevented Inter Miami from negotiating with him.

The teams reached a settlement that allowed Inter Miami to get the long-awaited signing done, but the league is still probing the tampering allegation.

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Jamie Braidwood23 July 2026 10:17

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Robbie Williams reveals truth behind World Cup saga and promises ‘plenty more’ dramas

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Robbie Williams reveals truth behind World Cup saga and promises 'plenty more' dramas
Robbie Williams has addressed the moment his nicotine gum fell out on live TV (Picture: Magenta Sport/AP)

Robbie Williams has addressed the World Cup moment that launched a thousand memes – and insists the internet got one very important detail completely wrong.

The singer has shared a hilarious post reflecting on the viral ‘MintGate’ saga that saw a small white object fall from his mouth during a live TV interview before ending up stuck to his forehead in front of an estimated 1.5 billion viewers.

While social media quickly filled with wild speculation about what viewers had witnessed, Robbie has now made it crystal clear: it was simply a Nicorette mint.

Sharing a photo comparing himself to The Sopranos’ legendary Paulie Walnuts – whose famously silver wings have become an unlikely point of comparison – the Angels singer admitted the whole ordeal was painfully on-brand.

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‘I think I reached peak me at the World Cup,’ he wrote.

‘To have a Nicorette fall out of my mouth during a live interview… and then stick to my forehead… is the most me thing I’ve ever done.’

Hail Keanu, I think I reached peak me at the World Cup. To have a Nicorette fall out of my mouth during a live interview... ...and then stick to my forehead... ...is the most me thing I?ve ever done. I had absolutely no idea it was there until the following day. The fake apology has now had over 27 million views. The whole MintGate thing has reached 51 million people. I?ve managed not to read too many comments, which is probably why I?m finding the whole thing genuinely funny. The Paulie Walnuts memes have been magnificent. It wouldn?t feel right if I appeared on the world stage and absolutely nothing weird happened. One and a half billion people were watching. For someone whose nervous system is permanently convinced we?re moments away from disaster, I?m quite proud that none of it was visible on my face. Well... ...apart from the Nicorette. The old me did briefly surface today though. ?These amateurs think I wouldn?t have crushed that powder until it was as fine as Bahamian sand?? Please. I?m not new. And now the internet has another thing it?ll be 100% certain happened. ?Remember when Robbie was off his nut at the World Cup?? I wasn?t. I?m not. And I haven?t been for a very long time. But that?s showbusiness. And so it goes. The funniest part? Straight after singing with Laura and Nicole, I kept saying to everyone, ?No one died and I didn?t cause an international incident. We did it!? Cue someone saying, ?Will you come and do this little interview? It won?t take long.? Me being me is very on brand. There?ll be plenty more. I am inevitable. Anyway... I?m off to continue ageing in public. See you at the next misunderstanding. Namaste, Robert
He shared the update alongside a photo of him and Paulie Walnuts, who he has been compared to recently (Picture: Instagram)

The 52-year-old confessed he had ‘absolutely no idea it was there until the following day’, revealing his tongue-in-cheek apology video has now racked up more than 27 million views, while the wider MintGate saga has reached a staggering 51 million people.

Rather than cringe at the attention, Robbie admitted he’s been trying not to read too many comments because it’s allowed him to find the whole thing genuinely funny.

‘The Paulie Walnuts memes have been magnificent,’ he laughed.

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He also poked fun at the fact that, no matter how prepared he is, something bizarre always seems to happen whenever he’s in front of a global audience.

UNCLEARED GRABS - World Cup fans defend Robbie Williams after small object 'falls out mouth on live TV' (Picture: Magenta Sport)
Many World Cup fans defended Robbie after the embarrassing moment (Picture: Magenta Sport)

‘It wouldn’t feel right if I appeared on the world stage and absolutely nothing weird happened.’

The former Take That star even reflected on the surreal pressure of performing at the World Cup final, revealing that despite an audience of around 1.5 billion people, he managed to keep his anxiety hidden.

‘For someone whose nervous system is permanently convinced we’re moments away from disaster, I’m quite proud that none of it was visible on my face,’ he joked.

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‘Well… apart from the Nicorette.’

Robbie couldn’t resist taking aim at the rumours that inevitably followed the viral clip either, mocking online claims that he’d been under the influence during the interview.

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‘Remember when Robbie was off his nut at the World Cup?’ he wrote, before firmly shutting the speculation down.

‘I wasn’t. I’m not. And I haven’t been for a very long time.’ The singer has spoken candidly for years about his past struggles with alcohol and drugs, and has been sober for more than two decades.

Still, that didn’t stop social media detectives from inventing their own theories after the clip spread online.

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Robbie revealed the irony was that moments before the interview, after performing alongside Laura Pausini and Nicole Scherzinger, he’d proudly declared to everyone backstage: ‘No one died and I didn’t cause an international incident. We did it!’

July 19, 2026, East Rutherford, New Jersey, United States: Robbie Williams, Nicole Scherzinger and Laura Pausini perform during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, United States., Credit:ZUMAPRESS.com / Zuma Press / Avalon
Moments before the viral clip, Robbie performed for the massive arena without incident (Picture: ZUMAPRESS.com / Zuma Press / Avalon)

Seconds later, he agreed to what he assumed would be a quick television interview.

The rest, as the internet happily ensured, is history. Far from being mortified, Robbie appears to have embraced the chaos.

‘Me being me is very on brand,’ he wrote. ‘There’ll be plenty more. I am inevitable.’

He signed off with one final self-deprecating flourish: ‘I’m off to continue ageing in public. See you at the next misunderstanding.’

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McCormick plans to add London listing amid Unilever food merger

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McCormick plans to add London listing amid Unilever food merger

Brendan Foley, chairman, president and chief executive of McCormick, said: “This, in combination with our International Headquarters and commitment to Unilever’s world-leading R&D facilities in the Netherlands and our global headquarters in Hunt Valley, Maryland, reinforces the global nature of the combined operations and positions us for ongoing success.”

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AOC won’t rule out 2028 presidential bid as poll shows her leading all Dems in key NH primary

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AOC won’t rule out 2028 presidential bid as poll shows her leading all Dems in key NH primary

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said Wednesday she was “deeply humbled” by a new poll that shows her leading in the early 2028 presidential primary state of New Hampshire and, when pressed, would not rule out a 2028 White House bid.

The Independent spoke with the self-described Democratic socialist congresswoman from the Bronx and Queens after a poll from the University of New Hampshire showed her leading in the first-in-the-nation primary.

The survey showed 22 percent of would-be Democratic primary voters prefer Ocasio-Cortez, better known as AOC, while 21 percent would prefer Biden Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly comes in third at 9 percent while California Gov. Gavin Newsom placed fourth at 8 percent.

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), an AOC ally who won New Hampshire in 2016 and 2020, clocked in at 6 percent while former Vice President Kamala Harris garnered 5 percent.

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Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) talks to The Independent about a poll showing her in the lead in New Hampshire.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) talks to The Independent about a poll showing her in the lead in New Hampshire. (Eric Garcia/The Independent)

Ocasio-Cortez did not directly address whether she’d run, nor rule out a bid for the White House in 2028.

“I think there’s two things: One is that you know polls are polls, and a horse race is a horse race,” she said. “I am, of course, I think, very deeply humbled and grateful to you know folks who participate and convey that confidence.”

But Ocasio-Cortez said her main focus was helping Democrats win back the majority in the House of Representatives.

“I’m honestly I think my main focus is is really genuinely just the midterms right now, and we have to make sure that we win this majority,” she said.

Polling shows former South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg in second place in the New Hampshire poll.
Polling shows former South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg in second place in the New Hampshire poll. (AFP/Getty)

The one-time insurgent, who defeated former House Democratic Caucus Chairman Joe Crowley in 2018, has in many ways inherited the mantle from Sanders, the independent socialist senator who caucuses with Democrats and ran two populist campaigns.

In 2024, AOC campaigned heavily for Harris in Nevada courting Latino voters. She also endorsed New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani during his primary challenge against disgraced former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

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Since then, she’s endorsed in both deep-blue districts and swing races. In Pennsylvania’s 3rd district, she endorsed left-wing candidate Chris Rabb’s campaign in one of the bluest districts in the country. She also endorsed Randy Villegas’s successful primary in California’s 22nd district to run against incumbent Republican Rep. David Valadao.

Over the weekend, she campaigned with Abdul El-Sayed, who is running for the Democratic nomination for Michigan’s open Senate seat.

Vice President JD Vance (L) and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio are locked in an invisible primary to succeed President Donald Trump.
Vice President JD Vance (L) and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio are locked in an invisible primary to succeed President Donald Trump. (Getty)

Historically, the Iowa caucus goes first in the nation before the New Hampshire primary. But in 2024, the Democratic National Committee moved South Carolina to be the first binding primary after President Joe Biden won the primary in 2020 thanks to Black voters. South Carolina and Nevada, which has a high Hispanic population, are now dueling for the right to go first.

Harris, the most recent Democratic nominee, would likely do better in the Palmetto State. In 2020, Buttigieg narrowly beat Sanders in Iowa but fell short in southern states due to a lack of trust among Black voters.

Some Democrats expect Ocasio-Cortez to either run for president or, more likely, for Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s seat in 2028.

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On the Republican side, Vice President JD Vance has a wide lead against Secretary of State Marco Rubio to succeed President Donald Trump as the Republican presidential nominee, with 36 percent of would-be primary voters picking Vance and 26 percent picking Rubio.

Rubio ran for president a decade ago, but failed to put up a significant showing after a poor debate performance against then-New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.

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EA FC 27 pre-order expected date, prices and leaked Ultimate Edition rewards

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Daily Mirror

EA Sports FC 27 is set for its official reveal, but when can gamers pre-order? We’ve got all the expected info, including early access and other pre-order perks, ahead of the first trailer drop

EA Sports is set to officially unveil EA FC 27 with the game’s first trailer later today (Thursday, July 23). The hype is building for the latest in the long-running football sim series thanks to the release of two new covers.

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As is tradition, the cover of EA FC 27 features a major football superstar. The man who has that honour this year is Real Madrid and France forward Kylian Mbappe, who graces both the Standard and Ultimate Edition covers.

Very little has been officially revealed about FC 27 so far, but the Standard Edition cover has hinted at plenty of new features. While Mbappe takes the spotlight, there are dozens of teases pointing towards fresh content.

Beyond the new features and gameplay tweaks, attention is turning quickly to pre-order bonuses and early access. Ahead of today’s major announcement at 5pm, prominent EA FC leakers have got their hands on information about the new Ultimate Edition – and more.

Here’s everything you need to know about the expected date you can pre-order, the perks you’ll get if you do so, and more.

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EA FC 27 expected pre-order dates and prices

If EA FC 27 follows the same path as its predecessors, then pre-orders could open as soon as today. The last three FC games were all available for pre-order on the day they were officially unveiled.

For EA FC 26, that was July 16, 2025. We are a week late to meet the same deadline, which is likely due to EA hoping to capitalise on the interest following the conclusion of this year’s World Cup.

Both EA FC 25 and EA FC 24 were revealed in the same week for their respective years, so there’s precedent to expect pre-orders to open as soon as the EA FC 27 reveal trailer drops on YouTube at 5pm today.

Pre-ordering the game usually ensures a week of early access before the official release date, too. Once again, each FC game has come out at roughly the same time every year, which is usually the last Friday in September – so expect EA FC 27 to drop on Friday, September 25.

Early access is almost certainly going to come seven days before that for Ultimate Edition customers and EA Play subscribers. Indeed, leakers have indicated this to be the case, so the earliest players can get their hands on the new game will be Friday, September 18.

As for pricing, EA Sports is rumoured to have thrown a spanner in the works for EA FC 27. While each FC title has come with a Standard Edition and an Ultimate Edition, FC 27 is set to introduce a third version, according to leakers.

The likes of insider DetectiveFUT, who is prominent on X, formerly Twitter, has said that an Ultimate+ Edition is coming for EA FC 27, While pricing for this version isn’t yet disclosed by EA Sports or leakers, many insiders fear it could come with a hefty £120 price tag.

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In fact, the Ultimate Edition+ is teased by EA Sports in the cover for the Standard Edition. One of many Easter Eggs in the cover shows off the Ultimate Edition, while another piece of cover art features Mbappe and Jude Bellingham and is expected to be the Ultimate Edition+ cover art.

The Standard and Ultimate Editions of EA FC 27 are likely to stay at the same prices as last year, however. That means a cost of £69.99 and £99.99 on consoles, and £59.99 and £89.99 for the respective versions on PC.

EA FC 27 Ultimate Edition and Ultimate+ rewards and content leaks

The Ultimate Edition for EA FC has typically represented a chance for gamers to get a leg up on the opposition in Ultimate Team, as well as offering extras for Career Mode and Clubs. But with the rumoured arrival of the Ultimate+ Edition, there are even more perks for those willing to shell out more of their hard-earned cash.

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According to DetectiveFUT, pre-ordering the Standard Edition guarantees an Icon player item rated 92 overall or above for FUT. It also includes pre-order challenges and a season boost for Career Mode, and three exclusive playable Icons and Heroes.

A five-star coach and five-star youth coach are also included for Career Mode. An Archetype unlock and two Archetype XP multipliers are also features, as well as a version of Kylian Mbappe for use in Ultimate Team and world customisation for the long-rumoured new open world mode, The Grounds.

There are also reportedly set to be ‘early bird’ and standard pre-order bonuses for those buying the Ultimate Edition. Both include all of the perks of the Standard Edition pre-order, plus a whole lot more.

It includes seven days early access, a premium pass for one FC Season, and three batches of 2,000 FC Points. An additional FUT Evolution slot will be made available, as well as a 99 Dribbling stat evolution to boost one player in FUT.

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The Icon available in the Standard Edition will be a 93+ OVR player pick rather than a random player rated 92 or over. There will also be an additional five User Generated Content Creation slots – a feature that more light will hopefully be shone upon during tonight’s big reveal – and a five-star senior scout for Career Mode.

The only difference between the early bird and standard pre-order of the Ultimate Edition is that the early bird offer comes with an 85+ International Icon pack. The Ultimate+ edition, which is reportedly only available as an early bird pre-order, includes that same pack for FUT but plenty of other features.

These include five Premium Season Passes, five batches of 2,000 FC Points, plus a special, first-ever 1 of 5 Direct Hall of FUT Player Pick. The Hall of FUT is another new campaign coming in EA FC 27, and will celebrate iconic players and fan favourites with boosted player items.

The Ultimate Edition+ early bird pre-order also includes a 99 Physical stat Evolution, giving FUT players a major advantage going into the new season.

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