#defensive-reinforcements

#defensive-reinforcements

Entering the most important homestand of the season, the Toronto Maple Leafs had the opportunity to make up some valuable ground in the NHL standings while solidifying their hold on a playoff spot. However, the Maple Leafs would end up falling completely flat by putting up their worst mark in decades, coming out with a 0-4-1 record while being outscored 25-12 in the process.

The Washington Commanders have money to spend and a lot of roster holes to fill in free agency. General manager Adam Peters should aggressively pursue veteran targets of interest, and this remains an ambitious project that could intrigue even if things don't go well in 2026. Finding productive defensive players at all three levels should be a high priority for Peters. This unit was old and lacked the desired athleticism or motivation last season. With a new coordinator joining the

I'm told the manager still isn't happy with his squad. There are a few positions he still feels they could strengthen in, despite all the money they spent in the summer, because they haven't been good enough recently. He wants to add another centre-half to his squad, that's no surprise to anybody. When you look through this Liverpool squad, there are still three or four positions where you feel they could strengthen, and it seems the manager feels the same.

The youngster is reportedly open to joining another club this summer, but he wants a loan move. He wants to return to Barcelona next season and establish himself as a key player for the club. It will be interesting to see if West Ham can get the deal done. If they manage to sign the talented full-back on loan for this season, it could be an inexpensive acquisition for them and would add much-needed quality and depth to their defensive unit as well.

Leoni enjoyed a strong debut year for Parma in 2024-25 after sealing a move from fellow Italian side Sampdoria, making 17 appearances across all competitions.

FC Porto's interest in Jakub Kiwior has waned due to a breakdown in talks over his £30 million valuation, despite their initial intent to sign him.