It looked as though Barcelona were not planning to sign another striker in the event of failing to capture Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid, who continue to make a deal extremely difficult.
However, the unexpected availability of Gabriel Jesus has changed Barca’s approach. The Brazilian was not initially part of the club’s plans, but the circumstances surrounding his situation at Arsenal have opened the door to a move.
Barcelona have taken advantage of the fact that he is no longer as prominent in Arsenal‘s squad as he has been, especially with Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres now ahead of him in the pecking order.
With Jesus’ Arsenal contract running until the summer of 2027, the club are willing to consider his departure for a fee rather than losing him on a free transfer next year.
The main question surrounding the move to Barca is Jesus’ injury history. He has suffered significant knee problems during his time at Arsenal. An anterior cruciate ligament injury to his left knee, suffered in January 2025, kept him out for 10 months.
None of these necessarily means Barcelona will abandon their long-term interest in Alvarez.
Following Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres’ departures from the club, Barcelona wanted to add a natural centre-forward to their attacking options. Jesus offers something different from a traditional number nine, with his ability to operate across the front line and contribute to the build-up making him an attractive option for Hansi Flick.
If the deal is completed, Flick will be adding a highly experienced forward to his squad. Jesus made 27 appearances for Arsenal last season in all competitions, scoring six goals, while his six-season spell at Manchester City produced 236 appearances and 95 goals.
For Barca, the move represents a relatively low-cost opportunity to add experience, versatility and Premier League pedigree to their attack.
WASHINGTON — For the last six months, President Trump has attempted to control the narrative of the Iran war.
As days, weeks and months passed, he repeatedly said that an agreement to end the conflict was close at hand and that Iran was already defeated. Between fraught negotiations, Trump has gone from conciliatory to antagonistic, characterizing Iran’s new leadership as more “rational” than their predecessors, only to later call them “sick individuals.”
There have even been times the commander in chief contradicted himself and his own Cabinet in the same week — and sometimes, the same day.
Friday marks the sixth month of the war launched by the U.S. and Israel. Among U.S. forces, there have been at least 18 killed and 758 wounded, according to Pentagondata. The Human Rights Activists News Agency puts the death toll in Iran at 3,636. In Lebanon, officials, say more than 4,300 have died. The Israeli military reported 72 deaths, and at least 50 civilians have died, according to news reports.
Here is a recap of notable comments Trump made in public remarks and on social media during half a year of war:
What he said: “The United States military has undertaken a massive and ongoing operation to prevent this very wicked, radical dictatorship from threatening America and our core national security interests.”
In announcing the start of Operation Epic Fury from the White House, Trump called Iran the world’s No. 1 state sponsor of terror and recalled actions by Iran or its proxies, such as the hostage crisis of 1979 and the bombing of a Marine barracks in Lebanon in 1983 that left 241 dead.
The goals of the operation, Trump said, were to destroy Iran’s nuclear ambitions, its naval capabilities and missile industry and to ensure that Iranian proxies — including Hezbollah and Hamas — were thwarted. He implored Iranian citizens to rise up against the government.
Women carry the casket of a teacher from Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School toward the cemetery in Minab, Iran, on March 30. The teacher was among those killed in a missile strike on Feb. 28, the first day of the war on Iran.
(Zohreh Saberi / For The Times)
What happened: That morning the U.S. and Israel conducted airstrikes on Iran, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as well as other key military and government figures. According to Iran’s Red Crescent, 24 of Iran’s 32 provinces were hit in the first day of bombings, with more than 200 deaths and 700 injuries reported. Iranian officials said that at least 120 students and 26 teachers died in a missile strike on Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School in Minab.
Iran retaliated by launching missiles at Israel and U.S. bases in Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab Emirates. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps also warned ships to not travel through the Strait of Hormuz, the passageway for 20% of the world’s oil and energy supplies.
What he said: “We grieve for the true American patriots who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation, even as we continue the righteous mission for which they gave their lives. Sadly, there will likely be more.”
In an interview with the New York Times, Trump was asked how long the U.S. and Israel could sustain its offensive in Iran. “It won’t be difficult,” he replied. “We have tremendous amounts of ammunition. You know, we have ammunition stored all over the world in different countries.”
What happened: An Iranian one-way drone attack was launched against the industrial Port Shuaiba in Kuwait, where American soldiers set up an operations center after abandoning the larger Camp Arifjan military installation.
What he said: “We projected four to five weeks, but we have capability to go far longer than that.”
At a Medal of Honor ceremony at the White House, Trump assessed the progress of the attacks on Iran, saying the U.S. was “already substantially ahead of our time projections.”
Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Terry P. Richardson is presented the Medal of Honor by President Trump on March 2, the same day Trump said progress in the war on Iran was exceeding projections. ..
(Win McNamee / Getty Images)
What happened: The conflict expanded, with Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon launching drones against Israel.
Israel’s counter-strike would ultimately decapitate Hezbollah leadership, but strikes between the two forces would continue through the first week of war.
U.S. Central Command increased the number of U.S. troop deaths in the Kuwait strike to six from three.
What he said: “The war itself is going unbelievably. It’s as good as it can be.”
He said that the U.S. “wiped out” the Iranian navy, air force, drone manufacturing capabilities and “every form of leadership you can have,” adding that he was interested in being a part of the selection of Iran’s new leader.
He also said that he believed the strike on the Minab school was a misdirected missile launched by Iran. He offered no evidence.
The family of 8-year-old Reza Habashian, a second-grader killed in the strike on Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School, observes the Persian New Year at his graveside in Minab, Iran, on March 20.
(Zohreh Saberi / For The Times)
What happened: Iranian drone and missile strikes on gulf neighbors continued.
The day after Trump said Iranians had no existing leadership prospects, Mojtaba Khamenei, one of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s sons, would become the new supreme leader.
U.S. officials familiar with the preliminary findings of an investigation into the Minab school strikes leaked information to the New York Times that indicated the U.S. had bombed the school as a result of a “targeting mistake.”
What he said: “Watch what happens to these deranged scumbags today. They’ve been killing innocent people all over the world for 47 years, and now I, as the 47th President of the United States of America, am killing them. What a great honor it is to do so!”
In a Fox News radio interview with Brian Kilmeade, Trump said that an uprising by Iranian civilians appeared likely. “It’ll happen, but it probably will be, maybe not immediately,” he said.
What happened: Iran and Hezbollah continued joint attacks against Israel, while Israel continued its own large-scale strikes on Beirut and Tehran.
On March 13, a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker — a refueling and airlift plane — crashed over Western Iraq without being attacked, resulting in the death of six more U.S. service members, Central Command announced. The U.S. death toll increased to 13.
What he said: “I think we won. All they’re doing is clogging up the Strait [of Hormuz], but from a military standpoint, they’re finished.”
Lightning streaks across the sky over an oil tanker on March 21 at Sultan Qaboos Port in Muscat, Oman.
(Elke Scholiers / Getty Images)
That same afternoon, in a post on his social media website, Trump said the U.S. was considering “winding down” military efforts in Iran.
What happened: The Pentagon said in a statement that it would send three warships and roughly 2,500 Marines to the Middle East for “routine training.”
What he said: “I am pleased to report that the United States of America and the country Iran have had, over the last two days, very good and productive conversations regarding a complete and total resolution of our hostilities in the Middle East.”
Trump also postponed military strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure after threatening to do so if Iran did not open access to the Strait of Hormuz.
What happened: Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, Iran’s parliament speaker, responded to Trump’s claims in a post on X. “No negotiations have been held with the U.S.,” Qalibaf wrote, adding that he believed the U.S. was using the prospect of an accord to ease strain on financial and oil markets.
What he said: “The United States of America is in serious discussions with A NEW, AND MORE REASONABLE, REGIME to end our Military Operations in Iran.”
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei, addressing journalists in Tehran on March 30, said a truce plan proposed by the United States contained “very excessive, unrealistic and unreasonable” demands.
(Shadati / Xinhua / Getty Images)
While saying in a social media post that progress had been made, Trump leveled additional threats if a pact wasn’t reached shortly. “We will conclude our lovely ‘stay’ in Iran by blowing up and completely obliterating all of their Electric Generating Plants, Oil Wells and Kharg Island,” he wrote.
What happened: Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei once again rejected that direct talks with the U.S. had taken place, describing the proposed terms as “unrealistic, unreasonable and excessive.”
What he said: “We’re gonna hit them hard over the next two to three weeks. We’re gonna bring them back to the stone ages, where they belong.”
In an address to the nation, Trump also denied that a change of governments was ever a goal in attacking Iran.
What happened: Thousands more U.S. troops arrived in the Middle East amid continuous back-and-forth strikes. Iran hit an oil tanker off Qatar’s coast and fired missiles and drones at Jordan, which were intercepted. Israel carried out strikes on a Beirut neighborhood.
What he said: “A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don’t want that to happen, but it probably will.”
Vice President JD Vance holds a cellphone up to a microphone while on a call with President Trump at an event on April 7..
(Jonathan Ernst / Pool Photo)
What happened: Trump’s post about a whole civilization dying went live around 5 a.m., but later in the day the U.S. and Iran announced a two-week truce. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council said in a statement that the truce did not “signify the termination of the war.”
What he said: “Effective immediately, the United States Navy, the Finest in the World, will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz.”
What happened: U.S. Central Command announced that the blockade of Iranian ports began at 10 a.m. Eastern. Central Command said the blockade would be “enforced impartially against vessels of all nations” entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas.
People pass in front of a pro-government political mural in Tehran on April 12.
(Majid Saeedi / Getty Images)
What he said: “I think it’s close to over, yeah. I view it as very close to being over.”
Trump’s comment to Fox Business anchor Maria Bartiromo on “Mornings with Maria” came two days after he announced the blockade of Iranian ports.
What happened: Though the ceasefire continued to hold, Iran officials had not relented on their right to enrich uranium, to maintain conventional defensive capabilities and to police traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
What he said: “I didn’t guarantee no war. Why would I have built the strongest military in the world?”
In an interview with Kristen Welker of NBC on the 100th day of the conflict, Trump claimed that he had never promised during his campaign that he would not engage in new wars in the Middle East.
President Trump sits for an interview with NBC’s Kristen Welker.
(Adam Bettcher / NBC / Getty Images)
What happened: On multiple occasions during his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump suggested that he wouldn’t start new “endless wars.”
In a social media post in late June 2024, he framed the election as a choice between “peace and prosperity or war and no war.”
What he said: “It’s a memorandum of understanding, and if I don’t like it, we’ll go back to shooting at them, dropping bombs on their head.”
Trump spoke the same day he signed a 14-point Memorandum of Understanding with Iran to cease hostilities for 60 days. Trump put his signature to the memorandum while attending a dinner with French President Emmanuel Macron in Versailles.
French First Lady Brigitte Macron, President Emmanuel Macron and President Trump meet at the Palace of Versailles in France on June 17.
(Mustafa Yalcin / Anadolu / Getty Images)
What happened: The document set out a series of conditions, including the release billions of dollars in Iranian assets that were frozen and restricted by the United States “upon the implementation” of the memorandum.
Some issues, such as the future of Iran’s nuclear program, were set aside for negotiations down the road.
The White Housed pushed back on bipartisan criticism of the deal, arguing its concessions were contingent on Iran’s conduct.
What he said: “There may come a point when we are no longer able to be reasonable, and will be forced to militarily complete the job that we very successfully started. If that happens, the Islamic Republic of Iran will no longer exist!”
President Trump boards Air Force One on Aug. 9 at Morristown Airport in Morristown, N.J.
(Eric Lee / Getty Images)
What happened: Trump’s social media post came as Iran and the U.S. continued to carry out strikes in the Middle East despite the memorandum. CENTCOM announced that military surveillance, air defense sites and drone storage facilities were struck after an Iranian attack on a container ship, the Ever Lovely.
What he said: “Iran has been very, very badly damaged. They’ve lost everything, almost, militarily. … They’ve got very little left; They’ve got some missiles; They’ve got some drones; They’ve got some manufacturing ability, not much; We control the Strait.”
People gather July 19 on a bridge rendered unusable in a U.S. airstrike in Iran’s Hormozgan province. Iranian authorities said the United States carried out attacks on 95 locations in Iran over the previous 10 days.
(Amir Hossein Khorgooei / Anadolu / Getty Images)
What happened: According to a CENTCOM press release, the U.S. completed 13 nights of consecutive strikes against Iran by July 23, adding to an earlier announcement that Iran had attacked more than 30 commercial vehicles in the previous three months of conflict.
Trump made the comment in the Oval Office while back-and-forth strikes — primarily over control of the Strait of Hormuz — continued.
What happened: According to a report by NPR, Iran’s parliament aimed to block U.S. and Israeli access to the Strait of Hormuz, despite Trump’s assertion that the waterway was under his control.
What he said: “We are only semi-negotiating with them. We are just watching Iran with its huge inflation and the fact they have no money.”
Trump’s comments reflected how U.S. officials sought to readjust wartime strategy after multiple rounds of failed negotiations. Trump told Axios that he would not proceed with expanded strikes against Iran, as the U.S. was “low-keying” its approach to the conflict.
What happened: As the war approached its six-month mark, both sides mostly ceased military attacks, but shifted to economic pressure.
“ANY country that allows its financial institutions, businesses, airports, or government entities to provide any type of lifeline to Iran will itself face TREMENDOUS Economic Consequences,” Trump wrote in an Aug. 19 post, threatening “ECONOMIC D-DAY” if Iran did not comply with his demands.
According to Reuters, Qalibaf, the Iranian parliament speaker, said that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until military threats ceased and sanctions on Iran were lifted.
What happened: In a post on X three days before Trump’s “completely collapsing” post, the hard-line leader of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council had noted economic sanctions placed on Iran by previous presidents, including Obama and Biden, and said they had all failed.
“We have seen this movie before,” he wrote. “Same bull. Different bullies.”
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and other officials attend an event at the mausoleum of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in Tehran on Aug. 23.
A POPULAR UK theme park will reopen today after being forced to close due to flooding.
The owners issued a statement on social media yesterday stating that it needed to shut to ensure the “safety of its customers”.
Drayton Manor was forced to close after heavy floods in the areaCredit: AlamyThe theme park closed for the entire day to ensure customer safetyCredit: Drayton Manor
Drayton Manor Resort has now said it will open as usual today between 10.30am and 6pm – although it has warned not all of its rides may be open depending on conditions.
Today, Dayton Manor said on social media: “We’re open today and operating as normal.”
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It continued: “As always, ride availability can be affected by weather or operational requirements, so we recommend checking our ride availability page before visiting for the latest updates.”
Yesterday, the theme park was closed due to heavy downpours and thunderstorms caused flooding in the area.
Locals reported their cars having been stranded and homes were inundated with flood water.
A statement on the theme park’s Facebook said on Thursday: “Due to adverse weather and flooding, Drayton Manor Resort will be closed today.
“We know many of you were looking forward to visiting, and we’re very sorry for the disappointment and inconvenience this causes.
“There’s no need to contact us at this stage. We’ll be in touch with affected guests shortly with information on how to rearrange your visit for another date.
“Thank you for your patience and understanding while we make alternative arrangements. We look forward to welcoming you to Drayton Manor soon.”
Drayton Manor announced the closure on social mediaCredit: Drayton Manor Resort
Drayton Manor, located in Tamworth in Staffordshire, is considered to be the best-value park in the country.
It has over 50 rides and attractions, and is home to Europe’s only Thomas the Tank Engine Land and a 15-acre zoo.
In 2024, Drayton Manor opened its new Wild West themed world called Frontier Falls.
It opened in July 2024 with a new rollercoaster called Gold Rush where visitors are whisked away in a runaway mining cart.
It’s the first rollercoaster in the UK to feature a backward launch into an outdoor gravity track.
The roller coaster has a two-minute ride time, with Drayton Manor claiming it to be the longest track length for a family coaster in the country.
A UK airport has been forced to close today as staff walk out with ALL flights suspended.
Norwich Airport is closed today following the strike action.
Norwich International Airport has closed with all flights cancelled todayCredit: Skyworks Places / GettyIt comes as staff carry out strike actionCredit: Alamy
Flights cancelled today include three arrivals from Amsterdam and an arrival from Alicante.
As for departures, four flights to Amsterdam have been cancelled and one flight to Alicante has as well.
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Airlines impacted by the strike action include Ryanair and KLM.
The strike was announced earlier this week, which has resulted in the flight suspension until the end of the day.
It comes as Prospect union announced the strike as part of an ongoing dispute over pay, terms and conditions.
In a statement on the airport’s website, it says: “Due to the 24-hour strike by Prospect union members in Air Traffic Control, Norwich Airport will be closed to air traffic on Friday 28 August and no flights will operate to or from the airport that day.
“Airlines have been informed. Passengers due to travel on Friday should check with their airline for the latest information about their flight and the options available to them.
“We apologise for the disruption and inconvenience this will cause to passengers.
Airlines impacted include Ryanair and KLMCredit: Skyworks Places / Getty
“We remain firmly committed to resolving this dispute through constructive dialogue and will continue to engage with Prospect with the aim of reaching agreement.”
The airport operates to a number of destinations abroad, such as Spain and the Netherlands.
Yesterday, local travel agents told holidaymakers that they would need to travel 101 miles to catch their flights.
They would instead be departing from Southend Airport in Essex with passengers told to head to Norwich Airport, where they would then be taken on a coach to Southend.
A MAJOR UK theme park has been forced to close all day “due to adverse weather and flooding”.
Owners of the park have apologised for any disappointment caused by the decision, telling visitors “your safety comes first”.
Drayton Manor has closed its entire resort today due to flooding and thunderstorms in the areaCredit: Alamy
Drayton Manor Resort will remain shut all day today after heavy downpours and thunderstorms caused significant flooding in the area.
Floods have swamped Birmingham and the West Midlands overnight, with locals reporting cars being “stranded” in flood water and homes being left inundated with water.
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More rain is forecast to hit Birmingham and other cities throughout today, with a Met Office yellow warning for thunderstorms continuing into the evening.
Customers have been advised not to contact staff at Drayton Manor at this stage, saying they would contact visitors at a later date to rearrange visits.
A statement on the theme park’s Facebook said: “Due to adverse weather and flooding, Drayton Manor Resort will be closed today.
“We know many of you were looking forward to visiting, and we’re very sorry for the disappointment and inconvenience this causes.
“There’s no need to contact us at this stage. We’ll be in touch with affected guests shortly with information on how to rearrange your visit for another date.
“Thank you for your patience and understanding while we make alternative arrangements. We look forward to welcoming you to Drayton Manor soon.”
The resort announced the closure on its Facebook page earlier todayCredit: Drayton Manor Resort
Drayton Manor, located in Tamworth in Staffordshire, is considered to be the fourth-largest theme park in the country.
With over 50 rides and attractions, Drayton is home to Europe’s only Thomas the Tank Engine Land and a 15-acre zoo.
Bosses have not yet confirmed whether the park will reopen to visitors tomorrow or throughout the Bank Holiday weekend.
IT’S your last chance to visit a major tourist attraction in the UK – unless you can wait until 2028.
Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens dates back to 1879, now home to four floors of local history, science and art as well as an impressive glass-domed tropical greenhouse.
The Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens will close for two yearsCredit: Google mapsIt has a tropical greenhouse filled with over 2,000 plantsCredit: Google maps
However on August 29, the free-to-visit attraction will close its doors for two years for a huge renovation project.
The £13.6million project will include new entrances and a ‘shop window’ style exhibit.
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This will allow it to show off items like its Nissan car that was the first off the production line at the Sunderland factory in 1986.
New rooms will be created too such as The Growing Space, with a tree-like canopy that will be used as a place for activities, and other exhibition spaces will be added.
The tropical gardens which sit alongside the museum will get new lighting and seating areas as well as new plant species.
Currently inside the greenhouse are over 2,000 plants as well as man-made streams and ponds with colourful Koi fish.
There’s also a treetop walkway to see through the canopy and spot Mowbray Park through the glass.
Amongst the tropical plants is a permanent collection of life-sized dinosaur models and fossils.
During the works, the dinosaurs will be stored away safely, as will Wallace the Lion – a taxidermy lion from 1868.
During the closure, a new Culture House will open on September 12, where some museum activities will take place.
The attraction will undergo upgrades and construction over the next few yearsCredit: AlamyThe Growing Space will be a new spot in the museum with a tree-like canopyCredit: sunderlandculture.org
Other events that would have usually been held in the attraction will go-head at other places across the city.
Councillor Ciera Hudspith, cabinet member for culture, tourism and heritage at Sunderland City Council, said: “This once-in-a-generation transformation is about creating a museum that is fit for the future, while protecting its heritage and collections for generations to come.
“While we know people will be sad to see the museum temporarily close, this marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for one of our best-loved attractions.”
Ciera continued: “We’re also really excited to take museum activities out into communities across our city while the redevelopment work is underway.”
If you want to find out more about the museums around England – here’s a full list of 200 that are completely free.
New exhibition spaces will be added to the attractionCredit: sunderlandculture.org
Passengers have been told to head to Norwich Airport, where they will then be taken on a coach to Southend.
Strike action comes as Prospect union continues an ongoing dispute over pay, terms and conditions.
Strike action started last Monday after the airport failed to make an offer to resolve the dispute, with several cancellations on Friday including Loganair flights to and from Aberdeen.
In a statement on the airport’s website, it says: “Due to the 24-hour strike by Prospect union members in Air Traffic Control, Norwich Airport will be closed to air traffic on Friday 28 August and no flights will operate to or from the airport that day.
All flights have been cancelled with travellers having to head 101 miles to catch a flightCredit: Skyworks Places / Getty
“Airlines have been informed.
“Passengers due to travel on Friday should check with their airline for the latest information about their flight and the options available to them.
“We apologise for the disruption and inconvenience this will cause to passengers.
“We remain firmly committed to resolving this dispute through constructive dialogue and will continue to engage with Prospect with the aim of reaching agreement.”
Aston Villa are close to an agreement to sign striker Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea in a deal worth up to £65m.
There is a broad agreement between the clubs over the terms of a move for the 25-year-old, with Chelsea set to achieve their asking price with an initial sum of £47.5m with £17.5m in add-ons.
And if the Senegal international agrees personal terms and completes the switch to Villa his arrival is likely to trigger England international Ollie Watkins’ move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
The deal remains subject to personal terms being agreed, but negotiations are at an advanced stage, with Jackson expected to reunite with Unai Emery having played under the Villa boss at Spanish club Villarreal.
Jackson would become the latest player in Villa’s summer rebuild following the arrivals of record buy Johan Manzambi, midfielder Joao Gomes, goalkeeper Zion Suzuki and defender Matteo Ruggeri.
However, there has also been significant movement out of the club and Watkins leaving would mean they had sold five of the starting XI who won the Europa League in May.
Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, Lucas Digne and Ezri Konsa have already left with goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez expected to depart too.
Chelsea are weighing up a move for the Argentine, who is now deemed surplus to requirements after Suzuki joined from Parma.
In signing Jackson, Villa would be getting a forward who joined Chelsea from Villarreal for £35m in 2023 and scored 30 goals in 81 appearances.
His most recent appearance for the Blues came against Fluminense in the Club World Cup in 2025, while he also won the Europa Conference League with the club.
He spent last season on loan to Bayern Munich, scoring 11 times in 34 games and helping Bayern win the Bundesliga.
Chelsea banked a £14.3m loan fee from the move, though an obligation to buy for £56.2m was not triggered after Jackson failed to make 40 appearances of 45 minutes or more.
Fellow forward Liam Delap is also likely to leave the Blues, with a £50m fee agreed with Nottingham Forest for the striker.
Meanwhile, the club have also been holding talks with Atalanta’s Honest Ahanor, 18, over a potential move to Stamford Bridge. The defender is valued at £34.3m by the Italian club.
A UK attraction that has been open since 1972 and draws in around 300,000 visitors every year, will be closing its doors following a major update, but it’s not all bad news
A major UK tourist attraction will leave Beaulieu after 60 years (Image: Geoffrey Swaine/Shutterstock)
A popular tourist attraction will be closing its doors after six decades.
The National Motor Museum at Beaulieu opened in 1972 in the New Forest, and today, it attracts more than 300,000 visitors annually, thanks to its impressive collection of 280 vintage vehicles. They range from cars used in TV and film productions to ancient motorised carriages, motorbikes, F1 racers, record-breaking speed machines and even a 1950s red bus, each with its own story.
The New Forest attraction is considered one of the best motor museums in the UK, and was named one of the ‘South’s top visitor attractions’ in TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice 2026. However, after 60 years, the National Motor Museum will close its doors as its lease ends.
Earlier this month, the museum confirmed it was in the “process of identifying a transformational new home for the National Motor Museum as its current lease at Beaulieu approaches the end of its 60-year term.” The lease expires in 2032, but it’s reported that the attraction will move out of its current purpose-built building at the estate in the New Forest in 2030.
In a further statement from Beaulieu, they said that the “day-to-day operation of the museum will not change from a visitor experience perspective, and Beaulieu intends to continue to operate a motor museum in the future, as it has for over 70 years. A significant number of vehicles in the museum are either on loan or owned by the Montagu family and will continue to stay here.”
They added that “Beaulieu will continue to be a leading visitor attraction on the south coast and welcome thousands of visitors each year for generations of families to enjoy memorable days out.”
Since it was opened by Edward, 3rd Baron Montagu of Beaulieu, in 1972, the attraction has been adored by visitors for decades. One traveller shared on TripAdvisor: “I came when I was 9, and after 37 years I returned to show the place to my Husband, we had a fantastic day, he thoroughly enjoyed himself.
“The car exhibition was obviously his favourite, but he also loved seeing the falconry, and we love what the family have done with the rooms in the house, such an extravagant revamp of the rooms, but it fits well as it’s such an extraordinary place with a fascinating history of each family member that has been lord of the estate.”
Those visiting the National Motor Museum can explore the collection of vehicles, various exhibitions, and climb on board the replica 1912 open-top London red bus. On the nearby grounds, there’s also England’s oldest monorail available for a ride, the remains of Beaulieu Abbey to explore, the play area at Little Beaulieu, and the Palace House & Gardens, home of the Montagu family since 1538, with one inclusive ticket providing access to all attractions, including the monorail.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
A petition calling for urgent action to save the beach and pier has been signed by over 900 people.
While coastal erosion is natural, there is a risk of safety if it continues at Teignmouth Beach.
A spokesperson for the EA said: “Teignmouth seafront is an important local landmark.
“This work is ongoing, but the funding needed to develop the project further is not currently available.”
Which has resulted in the pier’s structure becoming exposedCredit: Alamy
A decision on funding is unlikely to occur before 2028/2029, according to the EA.
If it is approved then, work would be set to be completed by 2030.
Back in January, part of the historic pier washed away and the sea wall next to the railway line crumbled due to storm damage.
In fact, over the years the pier has suffered several closures due to storm damage.
One of the most notable closures was in 2014, when massive waves and high winds damaged multiple parts of the pier forcing it to close for seven months.
Since 2014 and to date, the wider 30- metre deck at the end of the pier has been closed as it is deemed unsafe.
This is the part of the pier that then fell into the sea earlier this year.
With the pier’s structure now exposed, if another storm were to happen it could damage the pier further.
This could result in the local council cordoning off the beach and shutting the pier for safety reasons.
Teignmouth Grand Pier was built between 1865 and 1867 and used to be a landing stage for steamboats.
The pier has previously suffered storm damage, including in January where the end of the pier fell into the seaCredit: AlamyThe environment agency is now putting forward a plan for the beach and pierCredit: Alamy
The 190-metre-long pier then became a popular tourist destination.
At one point, the pier was home to a ballroom at its end, however this was later destroyed in a fire.
There would be performances on the pier too including ‘Peg-leg Pete’ who was a one-legged performer that would set himself on fire before jumping into the sea.
Today, the pier features a range of amusement arcades and penny slot machines.
The decision was made due to a number of reasons including rejected National Lottery funding.
A spokesperson for the museum said: “Changes to the organisational structure of the charity will start taking place from later this year as it pivots towards its future direction, and the resource it requires to do so.
“Any changes to the physical collection and the management of that will take place in a carefully managed and gradual way over the next four years.”
The museum welcomes 300,000 visitors each year and opened back in 1972.
The museum which is home to 250 vehicles is already looking for a new homeCredit: Alamy
A UK airport is set to close for an entire day this week – with strikes having already caused chaos.
Norwich Airport in Norfolk will be closed on August 28 due to another air traffic control strike taking place at the airport.
Norwich Airport will close on August 28Credit: Alamy
As a result, the airport will not be able to operate across the day meaning all flights will be cancelled, as there will be extremely low staff numbers.
It comes as Prospect union announced the strike as part of an ongoing dispute over pay, terms and conditions.
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Strike action started last Monday after the airport failed to make an offer to resolve the dispute, with several cancellations on Friday including Loganair flights to and from Aberdeen.
Strike action means that staff will work strictly to their contract, not work overtime, won’t swap shifts and will withdraw goodwill.
In a statement on the airport’s website, it says: “Due to the 24-hour strike by Prospect union members in Air Traffic Control, Norwich Airport will be closed to air traffic on Friday 28 August and no flights will operate to or from the airport that day.
“Airlines have been informed. Passengers due to travel on Friday should check with their airline for the latest information about their flight and the options available to them.
“We apologise for the disruption and inconvenience this will cause to passengers.
“We remain firmly committed to resolving this dispute through constructive dialogue and will continue to engage with Prospect with the aim of reaching agreement.”
The closure is due to ongoing industrial actionCredit: Alamy
Destinations you can fly to from the airport include Faro, Malta, Alicante and Amsterdam.
Cancellations include a flights to Aberdeen, Corfu, Amsterdam, Alicante, Majorca and Dalaman.
David Avery, Prospect National Secretary for Aviation said: “It is extremely disappointing that we have still not received an acceptable offer from Norwich Airport, which has left us with little choice but to push ahead with this industrial action.
“Our members in air traffic control are not making unreasonable demands, they are simply asking for pay levels and terms and conditions that are normal for their colleagues across the country.
“We hope that the employer can quickly return to the bargaining table with an improved offer that will enable this dispute to be resolved without the need for strike action.”
TWO of Britain’s busiest trains stations will close again just days after reopening.
The busy London hubs had only been reopened for a week following a £20million revamp.
Two London train stations are closing again just days after reopeningCredit: GettyCharing Cross will be closed over the weekendCredit: Alamy
London Charing Cross and Waterloo East will both be closed on Saturday, August 22 and Sunday, August 23.
The stations only reopened on Monday, August 17 after a major 22-day closure for essential engineering work.
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Network Rail said the £20million programme saw engineers replace almost 2km of track between Charing Cross and Waterloo East, alongside improvements to platforms and structures.
Engineers also replaced sets of switches and crossings, replacing equipment that had been in use since 1990.
Drainage at Waterloo East was also upgraded, while platforms at Charing Cross were rebuilt with new foundations and surfaces.
Work was also carried out on the 175-year-old Hungerford Bridge, which carries the railway across the Thames, as well as the pedestrian bridge linking Waterloo East and London Waterloo.
The latest closure is part of the follow-up engineering works linked to the wider project.
Passengers are also being warned that further disruption is planned later in the year, with both stations due to close again on Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11.
Passengers affected by the upcoming weekend closure are being urged to check their journey before setting off.
THE UK’S largest regional airline will cease operations at a popular base in a matter of weeks.
Three routes will be axed after the flights were deemed to be “financially unsustainable”.
A major regional airline will axe all routes to and from Dundee Airport later this yearCredit: facebook/@DNDAirportLoganair has made the decision to withdraw the flights after they were deemed ‘financially unsustainable’Credit: Alamy
The airline currently runs flights from Dundee to London twice a day, having swapped from London Stansted to London Heathrow back in 2023.
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However, this route, along with flights to Orkney and Shetland, will end on Friday, October 23.
A Loganair spokesperson said: “Following a review of the route’s long-term viability, Loganair can confirm that its Dundee–London Heathrow service will cease after Friday 23 October, and the operating base will close.
“Earlier this year, we served notice to the stakeholder group behind the Public Service Obligation route after the contract became financially unsustainable.”
The airline revealed that it had “explored alternative options but have not been able to identify a viable way forward that meets the objectives of the PSO while allowing the route to operate sustainably”.
The airline, which was founded by Willie Logan in 1962, has operated flights from the Scottish city for 12 years.
“We are also supporting Dundee-based colleagues and will explore alternative roles across the Loganair network wherever possible,” the airline rep added.
“These decisions reflect the same disciplined, decisive approach that has driven previous improvements in Loganair’s punctuality and resilience, protecting the long-term future of the airline, our people, and the lifeline connectivity we provide to communities across our network.”
BUTLIN’S is closing a popular attraction at one of the holiday parks – and it’s the last one of its kind.
The Bognor Regis resort confirmed the holiday park’s spa will be closing later this month.
Butlin’s has confirmed it is closing its last spa at holiday park this monthCredit: Butlin’sThe spa was part of the £20million Ocean Hotel complexCredit: Handout
The Ocean Spa facility opened back in 2009, as part of a huge £20million opening of the Ocean Hotel.
Inside is a hydrospa, outdoor hot tub, sauna, relaxation pods, a crystal steam room and an outside sun terrace.
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But guests have since received an email saying the facility was to shut its doors permanently on August 28, with refunds given for existing bookings.
The message read: “We’re writing to let you know that the Ocean Spa at Bognor Regis will be closing permanently from 28 August 2026.
“This means we’re no longer able to provide the spa package you’ve booked.”
Refunds on bookings will be made automatically, and will be returned within 14 working days.
The message added: “We’re sorry for any disappointment this may cause, and we can’t wait to welcome you.”
Lots of families have been left sad by the news, with many saying it was a favourite of many adults wanting some child-free time.
One previous Butlin’s visitor said on Facebook: “This was one of the only things for adults to relax and have a break from the kids! Such a disappointment.”
Another added: “One of the highlights of the Xmas break was the hot tub in the dark bit, gutted.”
The spa was the last one open at the parks, having opened at Bognor Regis in 2009Credit: Alamy
A third said: “Butlins used to be a place for all the family, now it feels that all adult things are being phased out.”
And a fourth said: “Gutted to hear that it closed for good, went there and loved it.”
The decision follows the closure of the spa facility at Butlin’s in Skegness in 2021.
The other Butlin’s resort, Minehead, has never operated a spa facility.
Butlin’s said: “We can confirm we’ll be closing our spa at Butlin’s Bognor Regis.
“We’ve contacted the small number of guests who had booked to visit the spa and they will, of course, receive a full refund.
“The spa has always been a small part of the resort experience.
“Our focus is on the activities and entertainment that families come to Butlin’s for, including recent additions such as PLAYXPERIENCE, which opened at Bognor Regis last year.”
THE tragic last post of Hayden Panettiere paid tribute to “good times and good friends” just weeks before she passed away aged 36.
The Heroes and Nashville actress died on Sunday, her father said this morning.
Hayden Panettiere passed away on SundayCredit: Universal Tv/Kobal/ShutterstockThe star’s final post showed her smiling alongside a close friendCredit: Instagram
Hayden’s final Instagram post was made on July 27, only 21 days ago, as she smiled alongside photographer pal Randall Slavin.
The carefree and happy snap shows the pair smiling at each other as Panettiere winks playfully at the camera.
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In a caption accompanying the snap, which appears to be from a busy event, the Scream star wrote: “Good times and good friends.”
The post has 40,000 likes from Hayden’s one million followers.
Responding to his friend’s death, Slavin, 56, shared the photo on his own Instagram page.
He wrote alongside the black-and-white snap: “Peace be with you, H”.
Other fans flocked to her social media pages to leave their own tributes. One said: “Rip to the most beautiful soul ever.”
Another wrote: “This just brought me intense sadness.
“I’ve followed your work since I was a little girl, and have been following you for years because you seem like such a wonderful person who deserves so much better in life.”
Sources told TMZ that the mother-of-one had complained of back pain in the months before her death on Sunday.
Hayden’s father, Skip, confirmed the tragic news.
In a statement, he said: “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden.
“She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her – and to the millions who watched her onscreen.”
He asked for privacy “as our family takes time to process this unimaginable loss”.
The star’s family did not give a cause or location of death, however TMZ reported both Panettiere and boyfriend Brian Hickerson had flown out of Los Angeles on Saturday.
The website also reported that police responded to an “incident” and that an investigation is ongoing.
Netflix said it is in the process of closing two of its gaming studios, as the division is making another round of organizational changes.
The Los Gatos, Calif., streamer said it closed the Hollywood-based gaming studio Night School, the maker of narrative games like “Oxenfree,” on Thursday and has proposed to close Helsinki, Finland-based gaming studio Moonloot. Night School was the first game developer Netflix purchased in 2021 as it expanded into gaming. At the time, the streamer was under pressure by investors to diversify its content to attract more customers, after experiencing two quarters of subscriber losses in 2022.
Night School viewed the acquisition at the time as “such a natural pairing” as the gaming studio wanted to stretch its narrative aspirations on original games and Netflix has a reputation of giving TV and film creators an “unprecedented canvas” to bring entertainment to millions of people, according to a blog post on its website.
In an email, a Netflix spokesperson said it is eliminating roles because the company believes it can operate more strategically and efficiently in its games business. The spokesperson declined to provide the number of workers affected.
Last year, the company shut down Boss Fight Entertainment, one of the gaming studios it acquired in 2022.
Games on Netflix have had mixed results. At the end of 2024, Epic Games executive Alain Tascan joined Netflix as president of the division and under his leadership, it has focused on key areas including kids, party games like “Netflix Minigolf,” narrative games and mainstream games like “FIFA World Cup: Launch Edition.” The company also removed games in part because they did not have high engagement from its library.
Last year, Netflix unveiled several party games including “Boggle Party” and “Pictionary: Game Night.”
In June, Netflix released a narrative game made by Night School called “Unhinged” about a woman who is trapped inside her apartment during a hurricane and is trying to find safety. Voice actors in the game include Zoë Kravitz and Sadie Sink.
In a July earnings presentation, Co-CEO Greg Peters reminded analysts of the market opportunity for games, with $150 billion in consumer spending not including ad revenue or markets in China and Russia. He said the streamer is seeing solid numbers from its cloud games such as FIFA and “Unhinged” and higher adoption and retention in the cloud games than mobile games. He also said there has been strong engagement and growth from kid games.
“We’re just getting started here,” Peters said. “We’re scratching the surface in terms of what we think the total potential of the space offers for us.”
The layoffs come as Netflix stock has declined 37% from a year ago. Investors are concerned about how much time people are spending on Netflix compared to rivals like YouTube. YouTube represents about 14% of streaming-watch time by U.S. viewers on TVs, compared to Netflix’s 8% in May, according to Nielsen.
In addition to games, Netflix has added other types of content to its streaming service over the years including live events like NFL football games and video podcasts.
The Kennedy Center Board of Trustees on Thursday voted to move forward with President Trump’s plan to close the building for renovations for two years, according to the Associated Press. During the same meeting, the board, which is filled with the president’s allies, also voted to inscribe Trump’s name on the building.
The votes came after a federal judge in May ordered a halt to Trump’s plan to close the center, and also that Trump’s name be removed from the building, where it had been added to the venue’s official name. The new inscription will read, “Restored and Renovated by President Donald J. Trump,” according to the New York Times. Rep. Joyce Beatty confirmed the news to the AP. The move appears to be an attempt to sidestep U.S. District Judge Christopher R. Cooper’s ruling that the law “makes crystal clear that the Center is to be named for President Kennedy.”
Cooper wrote in that same ruling that the board’s original vote in March to close the venue beginning July 5 was “ill-informed and seemingly preordained.” But he left open the possibility of a closure if — after a more thorough investigation by the board into the plan — the decision was again made. The board’s recent vote came after it reviewed information about the repercussions and costs of a closure. This included three scenarios: a full closure, a partial closure over a period of five years and a limited series of phased closures, sources close to the situation told the AP, asking to remain anonymous.
It is unclear if the recent vote will again face legal pushback.
The Kennedy Center has been in crisis for more than a year, beginning in February 2025 when Trump fired its board and appointed himself chairman. He swiftly selected Richard Grenell, a former ambassador to Germany and a staunch ally, as acting director of the center. Under Trump and Grenell, the venue ruptured audiences and lost a slew of high-profile shows and artists including “Hamilton,” Shonda Rhimes and Ben Folds. The Washington National Opera also left the venue, which it had occupied for decades.
The situation worsened late last year after the board voted to rename the venue the Donald J. Trump and the John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts. Performers, including jazz musician Chuck Redd, canceled a variety of holiday shows. The Kennedy Center threatened to sue Redd, creating a legal drama that continued until this week when a superior court judge in Washington, D.C., ordered the center to pay more than $250,000 to Redd to cover attorneys’ fees and other legal costs.
PASSENGERS face further disruption in Europe as an Italian airport remains closed following a volcanic eruption for yet ANOTHER day.
Catania Airport in Sicily has been forced to cancel hundreds of flights since the weekend due to Mount Etna erupting and will remain closed until at least tomorrow.
Catania Airport has cancelled hundreds of flights since the weekend due to Mount Etna eruptingCredit: EPAOther flights have been diverted to neighbouring airportsCredit: Reuters
As a result of the disruption, families who have had their flights cancelled have been left stranded, with videos on social media showing travellerssleeping on the airport floor and even luggage belts.
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In its latest statement, the airport said: “Due to Mount Etna’s eruptive activity, the closure of Sector B3 has been extended, resulting in the suspension of arrivals and departures until 2:00 AM on August 14.
“Passengers are kindly advised to check the status of their flight with their airline before heading to the airport.
“Further updates will follow in the coming hours.”
Evgenia Filimianova, 39, was caught up in the chaos after flew to Sicily last week from London to attend a friend’s wedding.
However, when she was due to fly to Athens from Catania earlier this week, her flight was cancelled just 30 minutes before it was due to depart.
Evgenia said: “We were having a very nice day in Taormina, at the wedding, enjoying our time there, but we could see the eruption and the volcano spewing lava.
Families have been left stranded with some travellers sleeping on the airport floorCredit: Alamy
“The locals seemed very chill and we didn’t get any emergency texts or direction from the people at the hotel, so we weren’t too worried.
“But then I started reading about travel. As soon as there is ash, the airports start closing.”
She added that there were loads of people “sleeping on the floor” when they arrived at the airport, with most other flights and buses already booked up.
Catania Airport isn’t the only spot impacted by the eruption either – Malta International Airport cancelled 19 flights earlier this week as well, with more delayed today.
What does the disruption due to Mount Etna mean for passengers?
Anton Radchenko, air passenger rights expert and founder and CEO of AirAdvisor, explainedwhat the disruption means for customers…
“When volcanic ash closes airspace, airlines will usually class it as an extraordinary circumstance, which means fixed cash compensation is unlikely.
“However, I would urge passengers not to confuse ‘no compensation’ with ‘no rights’.
“The airline must still offer a refund or rerouting and provide reasonable meals, accommodation and transport while passengers wait.
“If you still need to get home, do not automatically accept a refund.
“Once you accept it, the airline’s rerouting and care obligations will normally end.
“Ask for the earliest reasonable alternative and, if another airline can get you back significantly sooner, ask to be transferred to that service.
“If you have to pay for reasonable essentials because the airline fails to provide them, keep every itemised receipt so you can seek reimbursement.”
This is supported by the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s current cancellation guidance which you can findhere.
Away from the stations, the railway line between Stalybridge and Mirfield will also be impacted, meaning that Mossley, Greenfield and Marsden stations will be closed between September 19 and 20 and again between October 3 and 4.
Nearby, Deighton Station, will also get a new footbridge and railway track in the area will be renewed.
Disruption for passengers won’t stop there either, as there will be another closure – this time lasting 38 days – from Christmas Eve to complete Huddersfield station before being completed in February 2027.
The entire project is part of the wider Transpennine Route Upgrade, which will focus on modernising the railway between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York.
The closure is part of a major project called the Transpennine Route UpgradeCredit: Alamy
Sophie Leishman, Transpennine Route Upgrade sponsor, said: “While we know there will be some disruption while this work takes place, these upgrades are essential to delivering the more reliable, accessible and higher-capacity railway that customers deserve.
“We’re making real progress across the route, from the redevelopment of Huddersfield station to improvements that will support longer trains, better performance and future electrification.”
Liam O’Shaughnessy, Transpennine Route Upgrade Programme Delivery Lead at Northern, said: “There will be disruption to Northern and other operators’ services during these works, with services amended and some trains replaced with buses.
“We strongly advise all customers to check before they travel and use National Rail Enquiries to plan their journeys.”
