Napoli have Brighton stalwart Jan Paul van Hecke in their crosshairs ahead of January, when they fully plan to meet Antonio Conte’s request to sign a new reliable defender to join Alessandro Buongiorno and Amir Rrahmani in the back.
According to Tuttomercatoweb, the Azzurri would have to spend at least €20M for the Dutch center-back. He’s under contract until 2027, which complicates their pursuit. He was acquired by the Seagulls from NAC Breda in 2020 and has been a regular since 2022 after a pair of loan spells. The 24-year-old has collected 64 appearances, 47 of which in the Premier League, providing 3 assists. He has two caps with the Netherlands.
Napoli have earmarked Van Hecke and a few other specialists as their rearguard could be in flux in the next window behind its two centerpieces. Juan Jesus could head to the MLS if he receives a good offer and the teams find a replacement.
Rafa Marin hasn’t convinced Antonio Conte for now. He could go back to La Liga on loan. Villarreal are hot on his trail. They spent €12M to acquire him from Real Madrid with a convoluted formula. The two deputies should get a chance in Thursday’s Coppa Italia tilt versus Lazio.
They need another dependable option but it won’t be too easy to find the right guy as, while money isn’t a problem, he’d have to be content with not being a regular for the next six months, while there’ll probably be more room next season. They can be very convincing, but a veteran is more likely.
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What’s more iconic than Cloud wielding a Buster Sword? How about Cloud rocking Erdrick’s Armor and wrecking Dragon Quest monsters all in one event? That’s right, Square Enix has decided to gift us mere mortals a crossover between Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis and Dragon Quest Tact. This limited event runs from July 30 to August 6, and if you’re not hyped yet, you might want to check your gaming pulse. But what does this actually mean for you? Well, buckle up, because this crossover is more than just a gimmick. It’s packed with so much fan service that even Sephiroth might need a break from brooding to join in on the fun. The Chaos, The Loot, The Slimeocalypse First off, Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis is about to host King Slime and his slimy gang because, apparently, even pixels deserve to meet their heroes. Players get to battle these absurdly charming enemies and earn event-exclusive gear worthy of both franchises. We’re talking Cloud stepping into Erdrick’s Armor and wielding what is unquestionably one of the most epic swords in gaming. Aerith, not to be outdone, is gracefully handed the Supreme Sage Garb because, you know, killing enemies and looking fabulous is her thing. And don’t even get me started on Sephiroth taking a cosplay detour as Psaro. Imagine one iconic villain dressing up as another. It’s meta. It’s chaotic. It’s everything we didn’t know we needed. Players, Prepare for Nostalgia Overload The crossover also throws in daily free draws, a boatload of loot, and arguably, a reason to ditch any other mobile games cluttering up your screen time. There’s something inherently rewarding about collecting crossover goodies that scream, “I was there when Square Enix decided Cloud needed an RPG glow-up with Dragon Quest-style flair.” Some highlights from the event include: Daily Free Ten Pulls (Spoiler Alert: Prepare for gacha heartbreak… and joy). Crossover Missions loaded with rewards like Red XIII’s Great Sabrecat Collar (think of it as drip for your furry companion). Event Bonuses that range from refined Mythril piles to rare crossover wallpapers that scream, “Yeah, I’m that gamer.” And, oh yeah, login bonuses stacked higher than a stack of pancakes at a chocobo-catered brunch. Why This Crossover Actually Slaps If you’re rolling your eyes at the idea of yet another crossover event, it’s time for a quick reality check. This isn’t just a lazy cash-grab with recycled assets and buzzwords. It’s a love letter to fans of both games, blending two legendary worlds into an experience that’s as ridiculous as it is satisfying. Think of it like a bizarre but beautiful RPG fever dream where Dragon Quest monsters challenge Final Fantasy heroes, and the only loser is anyone who missed out. Plus, when was the last time you saw King Slime try to flex on Aerith? Exactly. Is this Peak Mobile Gaming? Now, will this event cure all your gaming ailments? Probably not. Will it load up your plate with so much nostalgia and fan-service-packed chaos that even your backlog of unplayed games might get jealous? Absolutely. Square Enix’s crossover brilliance usually lies in its ability to unite wildly different fandoms and generate hype that turns even the most casual gamer into a midnight-grinding, loot-obsessed fan. And if that’s not peak mobile gaming, what even is? Final Thoughts Events like these are why gaming history has a vault packed with “Hype Levels Overload” moments. Whether you’re here for the loot, the cross-franchise cosplays, or just some good old-fashioned Dragon Quest monster smashing with your favorite FF cast, this event delivers on every front. Hot tip? Set your alarms. Grab your popcorn. And pray that RNG is in your favor for those 10 pulls. Trust me, you’ll want bragging rights when someone asks why Cloud suddenly looks like he walked out of a Dragon Quest cutscene. Remember, this party only lasts for a week. Don’t sleep on it, because King Slime certainly won’t. Be sure to visit Total Apex Gaming for more game-related news and content.
The Minnesota Vikings are looking to re-establish their defensive identity in 2025, and one of the surprises of training camp so far has been Jeff Okudah. Once labeled by some as a draft bust, Okudah is making waves under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Brian Flores. His performance, work ethic, and the strides he’s made in adapting to the Vikings’ system are quickly altering perceptions of both his potential and his fit in Minnesota. But Okudah’s story stretches far beyond just this training camp. His NFL career has been one of highs and lows, a testament to both his resilience and ambition. With Flores’ mentorship and a clear path to playing time, Okudah might finally be in the right place to thrive. A Challenging NFL Journey Jeff Okudah entered the NFL with monumental expectations. Selected third overall by the Detroit Lions in the 2020 NFL Draft, the Ohio State standout was viewed as a generational defensive back prospect. His college resume was nothing short of outstanding. At Ohio State, Okudah was a lockdown corner who excelled in press coverage, finished his junior season with three interceptions, and earned unanimous All-American honors. Experts heralded his technique, physicality, and ability to close on the football as elite traits that would translate seamlessly to the professional level. However, like many rookies burdened with high draft expectations, Okudah didn’t get off to the start he dreamed of. His rookie season was marred by injuries and inconsistent play, and Detroit’s overall defensive struggles compounded his growing pains. Things hit a low point during his second season in 2021 when he tore his Achilles just one game into the year. The injury sidelined him for the remainder of the season, raising serious doubts about his durability and ability to regain his form. Even upon returning to the field in 2022, Okudah showed flashes but struggled to secure a consistent role. With the Lions moving in a different direction, Okudah was traded to the Atlanta Falcons in 2023. Atlanta offered him stability and opportunities to play, but his performances didn’t fully live up to his potential, and he became a free agent after the 2024 season rather than earning a long-term extension. Now with the Minnesota Vikings, Okudah is under scrutiny once again. However, this time, there are signs that he may finally break through. Making Waves at Vikings Training Camp One week into the Minnesota Vikings’ training camp, Jeff Okudah has been a standout. Despite initial reservations about his role, Okudah has been running with the first team at nickel cornerback. For a defensive unit that prioritized upgrades in other areas this offseason, Okudah’s emergence has provided an unexpected boost in the secondary. Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores has already praised Okudah’s effort and attention to detail. “He’s been diligent on the field, off the field, in the training room, and in the weight room. He’s always looking to do extra film work,” Flores shared in a recent press conference. One hallmark of Flores’ defense is its reliance on intelligent, adaptable players who can read offenses quickly—and Okudah seems to be rising to the challenge. Flores also made it clear that Okudah’s work ethic and athletic ability are giving him an edge. “He’s getting more comfortable within the defense and has shown up positively in every way,” Flores added. For a player whose confidence was undoubtedly tested in previous seasons, this kind of recognition is both meaningful and motivating. What Okudah Brings to the Vikings’ Defense Okudah’s skill set is what originally made him such a highly valued draft pick. At 6’1” and 205 pounds, he has the size to challenge receivers physically at the line of scrimmage, as well as the speed to keep up in coverage downfield. These traits align well with Flores’ aggressive defensive philosophy, which often calls for corners to play in high-pressure scenarios. Playing in the nickel role can feel limiting to some defensive backs, but it requires discipline and versatility—two strengths Okudah is quickly proving he possesses. Nickel corners must be capable of switching onto slot receivers, dropping back into zone coverage, or even stepping up to help in run defense. It’s no easy job, but Okudah’s adaptability is allowing him to make steady progress. The Vikings are banking on Flores’ knack for turning overlooked talents into key contributors, and Okudah could be the next beneficiary. His ability to stay locked in during practice, both physically and mentally, is earning him trust within the organization. Why This Training Camp Feels Different for Okudah What sets this training camp apart from previous ones in Detroit or Atlanta is the environment. Under Flores, Okudah appears to be part of a system that prioritizes tailored assignments and coaching. The Minnesota Vikings’ staff isn’t asking him to be a savior; they’re asking him to play to his strengths. For a player trying to overcome doubts, this structured approach could be crucial. Additionally, Okudah’s own evolution as a professional is evident. The 24-year-old has dealt with more than his fair share of adversity and seems determined to erase any stigma attached to his draft pedigree. Watching him after practice, continuing reps or working on footwork solo, is a small glimpse into the kind of focus he’s bringing to this opportunity. What His Success Could Mean for the Vikings If Jeff Okudah continues to impress and locks himself into a starting role, the Vikings’ secondary might become more formidable than expected. With veteran safety Harrison Smith anchoring the defense and cornerbacks like Byron Murphy Jr. already contributing, Okudah’s emergence as a dependable nickel corner could provide the versatility needed to counter dynamic passing offenses. It’s also worth noting how Okudah’s trajectory could shape Brian Flores’ reputation. Known for squeezing maximum production out of his players, Flores has a chance to add another reclamation project to his résumé if Okudah lives up to his potential. Final Thoughts Jeff Okudah’s NFL story so far has been anything but linear, but he’s proving at the Minnesota Vikings training camp that the narrative is far from over. Under Brian Flores’ direction, Okudah seems to have found a system and coaching staff capable of helping him tap into his first-round potential. His development could be pivotal not only for the Vikings’ immediate defensive goals but also for reshaping how people view Okudah as a player. It’s still early in camp, and there’s a long season ahead. But for the first time in a long while, it feels like Jeff Okudah is writing a new chapter—one filled with promise, growth, and maybe even the redemption he’s been working toward since 2020.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the more bizarre teams heading into the 2025 NFL season. The team has a ton of new pieces, so it is hard to determine just how well it will perform. On paper, the team should be one of the better groups in the AFC, but it will be interesting to watch how everyone ingratiates themselves into the organization, and whether or not the execution is where it needs to be. Regardless of what happens, there are a ton of reasons for excitement in Pittsburgh. The main reason for excitement in Pittsburgh is the new quarterback, Aaron Rodgers. There are some other important pieces as well, including DK Metcalf and Jalen Ramsey. Jonnu Smith is also a new factor on the offense that could play a key role. Former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was discussing all of the reasons to be excited about the Steelers on the most recent episode of Footbahlin With Ben Roethlisberger. He mentioned the new additions, but he also spoke about the overshadowed special teams unit, including Chris Boswell. "I'd say the best kicker in the game, [Chris] Boswell," Roethlisberger said. "Special teams, that gets overlooked so much. You know, we talk about offense, defense, talk about Aaron, talk about TJ [Watt], we talk about all this stuff. What about the best kicker in the game? I know he's not up for a new contract, he should get one. They should actually probably make him the highest-paid kicker if he's not already. So, Omar [Khan], the Khan-Man, should get that done." Boswell signed his most recent extension with the Steelers back ahead of the 2022 season. He signed a four-year deal worth $20 million that runs through the 2026 season. He could be extended now, but Pittsburgh usually waits until before the final year of the contract to get a new extension done. He has been one of the best kickers in the league since joining the Steelers back in 2015, and Roethlisberger thinks he has earned a new deal. In terms of average annual value, Boswell is currently the NFL's 11th highest-paid kicker. He is one of the most efficient and reliable players at the position in the league, and Roethlisberger believes he needs to be at the top of that list. A new contract would likely result in the kicker becoming the highest-paid in the NFL, as he deserves it based on nearly every metric. Boswell led the NFL in field goals made during the 2024 season, and he went 13 of 15 from past 50 yards. His accuracy is unmatched, and he is coming off of his first All-Pro season in 2024. He was often overshadowed in the AFC due to Justin Tucker, but Tucker's career has seemed to fall apart after some off the field issues came to light during the 2025 offseason. Tucker also had one of the worst seasons of his career in 2024, which allowed Boswell to take the title of being the best kicker in the league. Steelers' Chris Boswell Is Searching For More Playoff Success When fans talk about the longest-tenured players on the Steelers, the first name that is always mentioned is Cam Heyward. Rightfully so, but Boswell has also been around Pittsburgh for a long time. He joined the team during the 2015 season, and he immediately solidified himself as the organization's kicker. There have been multiple instances where Pittsburgh has won contests with the only scoring coming from the leg of Boswell, but hopefully the offense can take a step forward in 2025 to take some pressure off of the kicker. Boswell has won in the playoffs with Pittsburgh before, and he is trying to get back to that point in 2025. Would you like to see Boswell get a new deal?
The New York Islanders are entering a new era under a revamped front office, and signs point to a potential retool—or even a rebuild. The most telling move came at the NHL Draft in June, when the team traded star defenseman Noah Dobson to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for two first-round picks. It’s a rare move in today’s NHL to deal your top blueliner, and it raised eyebrows across the league. Analysts and fans have wondered if more moves are coming. Since there are several teams looking for quality assets at a reasonable salary cap, it’s a logical question. Is Bo Horvat A Potential Trade Candidate? During an appearance on the Cam and Strick Podcast, newly appointed assistant to the general manager Matt Martin—an Islanders fan favorite and longtime forward—revealed a humorous but telling moment from inside the locker room. Martin, now working closely with the Isles’ new GM, said that Bo Horvat texted him immediately after the front office changes were announced. “You better not trade me,” Horvat reportedly wrote. The comments from Martin suggest that Horvat has no desire to leave the team, even if the Islanders aren’t set to be competitive this coming season. If the team is dumping some of their best talents, he does not want to be among those the organization chooses to sell. Horvat likely didn’t have to worry. He has a full no-trade clause as part of his contract, and even if management were open to asking him to waive it, he could have blocked any deal. It sounds like that would be his intention, so he was getting ahead of things by making sure they knew not to even ask.
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