Arda Kardzhali Overview

Serie A newcomers Venezia have reached a verbal agreement with Barcelona to sign promising attacking talent Toni Fernandez for a fee of €4 million. The 18-year-old academy graduate had entered the final year of his contract in Catalonia, prompting sporting director Deco to sanction a departure that includes crucial future buy-back protections.

Brighton are closing in on their latest smart recruitment move as they prepare to activate the release clause for Venezia captain Michael Svoboda. The Austrian centre-back is set for a move to the Premier League following a stellar campaign in Italy where he led his side back to the top flight.

Tim Leiweke, who has held prominent roles with two MLS franchises and a rich portfolio of sports brands, has invested more than $100 million into newly promoted Venezia after being introduced to the club's ownership by rapper Drake. The American businessman, alongside his daughter Francesca Bodie, will take prominent roles at the club following its return to Serie A.

It was a rough weekend for one USMNT star, but others enjoyed a memorable couple of days with the World Cup fast approaching.