We’re now a quarter of the way through the 2026/27 Premier League season, and England’s top tier is now set to take a pause ahead of the latest international break. Thomas Tuchel’s men have all but qualified for the next round of the UEFA Nations League, as they prepare for their latest fixtures against Croatia and Spain.

The Three Lions have a called up the likes of Borussia Dortmund’s Jobe Bellingham and Bournemouth’s James Hill in a fresh looking squad of players. The side will be hopeful of ending 2026 on a high, after suffering heartbreak in the World Cup last summer following their narrow semi-final defeat to historic rivals Argentina.

Today’s rumours round-up starts at Old Trafford, where Man United are said to be moving closer to making a decision on manager Michael Carrick’s future. With the Red Devils 18th in the Premier League table, the ex-Middlesbrough boss could well be sacked, and Sky Sports now claim ex-Tottenham and Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino is a key contender for the job.

They say that the USA manager is “open to talks” over potentially joining United, with his compensation fee likely to be in the region of £7 million. It’s suggested that the Red Devils hold a long-term interest in Pochettino, and are determined to finally get the right man in the hotseat to turn around the fortunes of club failing to live up to their historic reputation.

The 3AM Verdict: When things off the field remain unchanged, will a shiny new manager really turn around United’s fortunes? Their recruitment has been completely disjoined in recent seasons, leaving them with a squad that simply isn’t at an elite level. Pochettino may well come in, but we don’t fancy his chances of miraculously turning things around.

Bellingham linked with Premier League switch

Next up, Bellingham will hope to make his England debut alongside his brother Jude this week, and Football Insider suggest the dynamic midfielder is attracting plenty of Premier League interest. Their story says that Newcastle United are “keeping tabs” on the ex-Sunderland wonderkid, after a strong start to the Bundesliga season with Dortmund.

Man United and Everton are also said to be keen on the 21-year-old old rising talent, but it’s believed Newcastle’s interest is currently the most advanced of the three clubs. It’s said that Bellingham’s “attitude” is a concern for Newcastle’s rival admirers, after reports of past disagreements between his representatives and the Dortmund hierarchy.

The 3AM Verdict: It’s been great to see Bellingham emerge as a top quality midfielder who could become an England international alongside his brother. Newcastle could certainly do with some more numbers in midfield, and if they can get him at a reasonable price, Bellingham looks like he would be a fine acquisition either in January or next summer.

Leeds United ‘scouting’ lethal Europa League striker

We’ll finish things off at Elland Road, where Leeds will be satisfied with their season so far - given that they’re ninth in the league table as things stand, just two points off fifth place. The club are still thought to be looking to sign a new striker, and Team Talk suggest they’ve been scouting Dinamo Zagreb striker Dion Beljo, who’s scored 17 goals in as many games so far this season.

The story says that the 24-year-old is wanted be a host of Premier League sides, and that Leeds are among those interested in signing the Croatia international in January. Leeds are said to be keen to find some quality competition for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, as the side look to push on and potential qualify for Europe should their fine start to the new season continue.