Published Jun 12, 2026, 9:20 AM GMT+1

Ben is an experienced sports writer and editor, graduating with a Master’s in Sports Journalism in 2017.

Ben counts experience with publications like The Liverpool Echo and The Lincolnshire Echo. He has covered various sports, from American football to Mixed Martial Arts, but his primary passion is football reporting.

Since joining Football FanCast in 2018, starting out as a freelance writer covering nearly every team in the English football ladder, Ben has progressed through the ranks. He now leads the publication’s news team as a senior editor.

The Lilywhites have also tied experienced defender Ben Davies down to a new deal, with the Wales captain extending his stay in North London to a 13th season.

Newcastle haven't wasted any time either, already securing their first signing of the summer in the shape of young goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen.

“I’m really excited to become a Newcastle United player," the France U21 international said this week after making 34 Ligue 2 appearances last season for Reims, with the Magpies also closing in on a deal for Spanish forward Victor Munoz.

Sunderland meanwhile are surprisingly the only one of the three preparing for a season in European football, with Regis Le Bris expected to receive significant backing this summer.

The Black Cats have joined the race for Celtic midfielder Arne Engels, who is expected to cost in the region of £25m this summer amid interest from a whole host of top flight sides.

Tottenham, Sunderland and Newcastle race for Viery

According to reports in Brazil, via Sport Witness, all three Premier League sides are part of a huge race for Gremio centre-back Viery.

Newcastle have already seen a bid turned down for the 21 year-old, which was thought to be in the region of €12m (£10m).

Now, Tottenham and Sunderland have joined the race and could hijack the Magpies' interest, while there is also interest from Brighton, Nottingham Forest, Roma, Juventus and Fiorentina.

Gremio believe they can hold on for €20m (£17m) this summer, and the interest is so widely spread the report claims focus has already turned away from if the defender leaves and instead towards how much.

Viery, who can also play left-back, has a contract until 2029 with the Brazilian top flight side but is open to a move away this summer.

He played 27 times for the South American outfit this season, scoring twice and providing one assist.