⚽ This Week in Football: FIFA's $40m World Cup Plan, Liverpool's Barcola Bid & More
July 29, 2026 — Roundup by Alex Morgan ⚽
The football world is buzzing with breaking news from multiple fronts — from FIFA's controversial proposal at the top to major squad movements across Europe's biggest clubs. Here's what you need to know.
đ FIFA's $40 Million World Cup Push
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has put forward a bold proposal that would see nations receive $40 million in funding — but only if they back a contentious World Cup sell-off plan, according to BBC Sport and ESPN. The plan, which some have dubbed a "sell-off," is raising eyebrows across the footballing landscape. Sources have indicated that UEFA is weighing a potential World Cup boycott over the proposal, per ESPN. Infantino is actively urging FIFA member associations to support the plan, but the resistance from Europe's governing body could create a seismic rift in global football. BBC Sport has asked whether this move is "a step too far" for the FIFA president.
đ World Cup 2030: Way-Too-Early Power Rankings
ESPN has released its way-too-early World Cup 2030 power rankings, speculating on which nations might sit at the top when the tournament rolls around. While no specific rankings were detailed in the headlines, the early assessment signals that the build-up to 2030 is already generating serious debate.
đ´ Liverpool Preparing Opening Bid for Barcola
Liverpool are preparing an opening bid for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, according to BBC Sport and ESPN sources. The Reds appear to be moving decisively in the transfer market as they look to reinforce their attacking options. No fee has been mentioned, but the reports suggest a formal approach is imminent.
đľ Henderson Nears Chelsea Move; Welbeck Has Medical
In a busy window across the Premier League, BBC Sport reports that Dean Henderson is nearing a move to Chelsea, while Danny Welbeck is undergoing a medical, presumably ahead of a switch to a new club. Both deals signal continued movement in an already active summer market.
đ´ó §ó ˘ó łó Łó ´ó ż Scottish Premiership & Celtic Latest
Sky Sports has released its Scottish Premiership A-Z guide ahead of the new season — a comprehensive look at what fans can expect. Meanwhile, Celtic manager Brendan O'Neill has promised more signings at Parkhead, with captain Callum McGregor stating the club is exactly where he wants to be. The message from Glasgow is clear: there's plenty more to come.
đ Flat Season Heats Up
On the racing front, horse Doyle's "Diamond Necklace" is tipped to sparkle in the upcoming Nassau Stakes, per Sky Sports. And on the track at Goodwood, Bow Echo roared home late to seal victory in the Sussex Stakes — a dramatic finish that caught the eye.
Sources: Sky Sports, BBC Sport, ESPN — July 29, 2026