Here are the latest Premier League headlines on Monday, April 4.
Leeds wronged by penalty decision
Former Premier League striker Dion Dublin believes Leeds United should have been awarded a penalty late on in their game against Southampton. Joe Gelhardt looked to have been felled in the area as he darted towards the byline but referee Anthony Taylor instead pointed for a goal kick.
Gelhardt has already won two penalties for Leeds in the Premier League so far this season but on this occasion, Taylor opted against pointing to the spot. Speaking on Premier League’s Weekend Review, Dublin claimed that anywhere else on the pitch, it would’ve been given as a foul.
Via MOT Leeds News, he said: “If it’s at halfway line, it would’ve been given. I’m surprised he gave the decision against them. A crucial stage of the game too.”
READ MORE: David Moyes makes Everton claim as he assesses the relegation battle
Two clubs eye Derby captain
Norwich City and Brighton & Hove Albion are reportedly monitoring the situation of Derby County captain Tom Lawrence ahead of a potential summer move. That is according to Football League World, who claim the two Premier League sides have joined West Bromwich Albion in the race to sign the 28-year-old.
Lawrence has produced his best season yet for the Rams amid all their off the field problems with 10 goals and five assists. Clubs could use Derby’s financial issues to their advantage and target a cut-price deal for Lawrence, with their future still very much in the balance.
Defenders’ transfer message to Man United
Manchester United’s reported centre back targets Manuel Akanji and Ronald Araujo have both dismissed claims they could move to Old Trafford this summer. The defensive duo’s contracts are both set to expire in the summer of 2023 and have been linked with a move to the Red Devils in recent weeks.
Araujo has established himself as a key player in Xavi Hernandez’s resurgent Barcelona side and is in talks over extending his deal at the club. Akanji is also a regular member of Borussia Dortmund’s defence, however both have refused to be drawn into discussing moves away.
Via quotes from the Daily Mirror, Akanji said: "I am fully focused on Dortmund at the moment. We will see what happens in the future. I'm totally happy to play in this team. I think I have an important role and I want to perform until the end. And then we'll see in the summer how things go."
Araujo was also quizzed by reporters. He said: "I am very happy to be here. Happy with the support of the fans. We are working. This week we have a meeting. I hope it will be resolved soon so that I can continue many years in this club. I am optimistic."
