newcastle complete signing
| |

Newcastle complete signing of goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek from Braga

ByJustpaste.in

Newcastle, currently without a permanent manager, announced Monday that they have signed Czech Republic goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek from Portuguese club Braga.

Hornicek has agreed to a five year contract after Newcastle triggered his 30 million euro release clause, a fee equivalent to roughly 25.7 million pounds or 34.6 million dollars. He becomes the club’s fifth signing of the summer transfer window.

The 24 year old, who is expected to challenge Nick Pope for the starting goalkeeper role, described the past few days as an emotional experience since first learning of the move, and said he is thrilled to have completed the transfer. He said he is aware of Newcastle’s reputation as a major football city, pointing to the roughly 52,000 fans who fill St James’ Park and create an atmosphere he said pushes the team in every match, adding that he is eager to play in front of them.

Newcastle sporting director Ross Wilson said Hornicek has firmly established himself as one of the top young goalkeepers in Europe.

The signing comes during a turbulent period for the club. Eddie Howe stepped down as Newcastle manager last week after five years in charge, following a difficult campaign that saw the team finish 12th in the Premier League. The club has also faced a challenging summer transfer window on other fronts. Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali has completed a move to Tottenham, while England forward Anthony Gordon has departed for Barcelona. Captain Bruno Guimaraes has also been strongly linked with a switch to Premier League champions Arsenal.

Newcastle will open their Premier League season at home against Liverpool on August 23.

Similar Posts

  • |

    How K-pop stars turned concert stages into runways for luxury fashion

    ByJustpaste.in

    Fashion and music have always crossed paths, but K-pop has taken that relationship to a whole new level. Red carpets and front-row seats used to be where haute couture made its mark, but now concert stages are doing the same job. Every costume change is planned down to the last detail, every embellishment is built to catch the light, and every custom outfit says something about who the artist is. BTS’s ongoing ‘ARIRANG’ tour and ‘BLACKPINK’s’ solo shows have both proven that concert fashion is officially having its moment. What is more, luxury houses are not just dressing these artists anymore, they are designing with them, turning performance costumes into genuine collector’s pieces. For brands, a sold-out world tour means access to a massive, engaged audience eager to study every seam and fabric choice, a crowd that’s often broader than the one watching from the front row at a runway show. K-pop concert looks now blend ready-to-wear, couture and performance-first design, and they have to survive far more than just a photo op. Outfits need to hold up through intense choreography while still fitting the artist’s public image and giving fans something to freeze-frame in fan edits. Stylists are increasingly pulling from designer archives or commissioning fully custom pieces to keep things exclusive. BTS’s Paris tour stop was a masterclass in this. V leaned into Celine’s Parisian tailoring, J-Hope brought youthful energy to Louis Vuitton’s classic menswear, and Jimin wore four custom Dior looks spanning fringed knitwear to Napoleon-inspired jackets. Jin and RM turned to Gucci for leather-and-crystal ensembles, Suga went with a beaded Givenchy suit, and Jungkook wore custom Balenciaga pieces pulled from the label’s latest collections. BLACKPINK’s members have been just as bold. Lisa’s Swarovski-crystal catsuit from her Chicago show later ended up on display at Swarovski’s own crystal museum in Austria. Jennie leaned into archival fashion, wearing vintage Chanel pieces from the Karl Lagerfeld years, while Jisoo and Rosé spotlighted Asian designers, choosing Malaysia’s Ivan Yong and Seoul-based Gyouree Kim respectively. TWICE worked with New York designer Kim Shui for futuristic, metallic-heavy looks, while G-Dragon continues to blur the line between fashion and performance entirely, recently mixing bespoke Chanel tweed with an Amiri sequin suit. Together, these artists are proving that concert wardrobes can be just as fashion-forward as anything seen on a runway.

  • |

    Billy Strings reacts after fan throws object onstage

    ByJustpaste.in

    Billy Strings has opened up about a shocking moment during his recent concert in Indiana after a fan threw an object at him while he was performing on stage. The incident took place on Thursday, August 6, during one of the bluegrass musician’s sold-out shows in Fishers, Indiana. Strings was in the middle of addressing the audience when an object, reportedly believed to be a lighter, was thrown toward him and struck him on the head. The unexpected incident came just as the singer was expressing his excitement about being back in Indiana. Strings had previously been forced to postpone a performance, making the return particularly meaningful for him. “Thank you so much, I’m so glad I can make it down here. To make up for last time,” he told the audience before the object hit him. Clearly frustrated by what had happened, Strings immediately reacted from the stage. He questioned why anyone would throw something at him, especially when he had been preparing to tell the crowd how happy he was to perform for them. “What the hell, man? Maybe not. Maybe I shouldn’t have come back,” the musician said in an angry response. He went on to express his disappointment, pointing out that he had been feeling positive about the crowd before the incident interrupted the moment. “I was just getting ready to say how much I’m happy to be here, and I love you guys,” Strings said while addressing the person responsible. The musician’s reaction became one of the most talked-about moments from the concert, as fans expressed concern over the decision to throw an object toward a performer. Strings appeared determined not to let the incident completely derail the show, but the experience clearly left him frustrated. In a later remark, he made a strong statement about identifying the person who had thrown the object. Following the incident, Strings also appeared on stage wearing protective headgear, seemingly taking extra precautions during his performances. The Indiana concert was particularly notable as it marked an important return to the stage for Strings following his previous major performances. He had most recently performed during Willie Nelson’s Outlaw Music Festival Tour stop in Spokane, Washington. During that appearance, Strings paid tribute to legendary singer-songwriter Bob Dylan, who was also present at the event and performed “All Along the Watchtower.” Strings has also experienced deeply emotional moments during his career. Months after that performance, he paid tribute to his late mother during an emotional concert in Lexington, reportedly taking the stage only hours after learning about her death. Despite the difficult moments surrounding his recent performances, Strings has continued connecting with audiences through his music. However, the incident in Indiana has highlighted the risks performers can face when audience members behave unpredictably during live shows.

  • |

    Ryan Gosling set to produce live-action Flintstones movie

    ByJustpaste.in

    Ryan Gosling is stepping into another major Hollywood project, this time entering the prehistoric world of one of animation’s most recognizable families. The Barbie star is reportedly in the early stages of developing a live-action movie based on The Flintstones for Warner Bros., with his Open Invite producing partner Jessie Henderson also attached to the project. The upcoming film is expected to offer a fresh take on the classic animated franchise rather than simply retelling the original story. According to reports, the project will center on Bamm-Bamm Rubble, the famously strong and energetic son of Barney and Betty Rubble. The character has been a memorable part of The Flintstones universe since the original animated series, and the new film could explore what his life looks like as an adult. While the project has generated interest because of Gosling’s involvement, it is still in the early development stage. The producers are currently looking for a writer who can shape the story and bring the concept to the big screen. No director or additional cast members have been confirmed at this stage, meaning many details about the live-action adaptation remain under wraps. Gosling’s involvement marks another ambitious addition to his growing list of Hollywood projects. Alongside his acting career, the 45-year-old actor has increasingly taken on producing responsibilities, including through his partnership with Henderson. Their next producing collaboration is Love of Your Life, a romantic drama directed by Rachel Morrison. The film is scheduled to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival next month and is expected to attract attention as another major project from the pair. Meanwhile, Gosling also remains connected to the possibility of returning to the world of Barbie. Discussions surrounding a potential sequel to the hugely successful 2023 movie have reportedly been complicated by negotiations over compensation. The original film, directed by Greta Gerwig and written by Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, became a global phenomenon and featured Gosling alongside Margot Robbie. Although plans for a follow-up have reportedly faced delays, interest in another Barbie movie remains high. Gosling’s portrayal of Ken became one of the most talked-about aspects of the original film, earning him widespread praise and further establishing his versatility as an actor. Gosling has also had a successful year with Project Hail Mary, his major 2026 science-fiction release. The movie attracted audiences internationally and added another commercially successful title to his filmography. Its strong reception has only increased anticipation surrounding his future projects. With The Flintstones now reportedly entering development, Gosling appears set to continue exploring a wide range of genres and characters. A live-action story centered on an adult Bamm-Bamm could give the classic franchise a modern direction while introducing the beloved character to a new generation. However, fans will have to wait for further announcements before the project moves forward. With a writer still being sought and no official production timeline revealed, the live-action Flintstones movie remains in its early stages. If Gosling and Henderson succeed in bringing the concept together, the project could become another high-profile addition to Warner Bros.’ growing slate of franchise films.

  • | |

    China stands firm on economic strategy ahead of ke…

    ByJustpaste.in

    BEIJING: China has intensified its defence of its state-led economic model as it prepares for crucial trade discussions with the European Union and the United States, signalling that it is unlikely to make major policy concessions despite mounting international criticism. Beijing has repeatedly argued that its development strategy, which prioritises investment in advanced manufacturing and technology, remains essential for long-term economic growth. Chinese leaders maintain that the country’s industrial policies have helped strengthen innovation and global competitiveness, rejecting accusations that they distort international trade. The latest policy statements from China’s leadership indicate a commitment to maintaining its current economic direction. While officials acknowledge challenges such as weak domestic demand and excess production capacity, they continue to favour targeted policy support instead of broad consumer-focused stimulus measures. Chinese authorities have also dismissed Western claims of industrial overcapacity, describing such criticism as politically motivated. They argue that China’s manufacturing success reflects its stage of economic development and benefits global consumers through affordable, high-quality products. Ahead of expected meetings between President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump later this year, as well as upcoming negotiations with the European Union, Beijing has adopted a more confident tone in defending its economic policies. Analysts believe the messaging is intended to establish clear limits on what China is willing to negotiate while encouraging greater understanding of its development model. China has also sought to counter warnings of a new “China shock” by portraying its industrial expansion as an opportunity for global economic growth. However, many Western economists argue that China’s reliance on exports, combined with subdued domestic consumption, continues to create imbalances that affect international markets. Although Beijing has slowed public investment by tightening oversight of local government spending, officials acknowledge that supply and demand remain uneven. Authorities have pledged to reduce destructive price competition among manufacturers and have reiterated their intention to strengthen consumer demand, though without announcing sweeping structural reforms. Chinese policymakers have also recognised that the country’s traditionally low household consumption cannot remain a permanent feature of its economy. While official publications describe the existing model as historically appropriate, they also suggest gradual adjustments will be necessary to ensure sustainable long-term growth. Despite these acknowledgements, Beijing remains cautious about implementing rapid reforms, fearing that abrupt policy changes could undermine economic stability. International studies continue to raise concerns over China’s economic practices. Recent research suggests that government subsidies have played a significant role in boosting the global market share of many Chinese companies, while other reports attribute much of China’s export growth to weak domestic consumption and industrial overcapacity. Analysts also note that China continues to invest in productive assets at a much faster pace than Europe and the United States, even though returns on those investments have declined. Many experts believe Beijing’s increasingly assertive defence of its economic model reflects growing confidence that it can manage trade tensions with Western partners without fundamentally changing its industrial strategy.

  • |

    Eggs fly in Kosovo parliament as political crisis …

    ByJustpaste.in

    PRISTINA: Kosovo’s parliament descended into chaos after opposition lawmaker Time Kadrijaj threw eggs toward acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti during a heated session, highlighting the deep political divisions gripping the country. Kadrijaj, a member of the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo, reportedly threw four eggs in Kurti’s direction while shouting “shame” as lawmakers debated the stalled formation of parliamentary institutions. The dramatic confrontation prompted security personnel and other lawmakers to intervene, and the session was suspended. The incident came after Kurti asked lawmakers for additional time to continue negotiations before proposing a candidate for the speaker of parliament. Kosovo has remained caught in a political deadlock following the June snap elections, with disagreements among political parties preventing the new institutions from being fully established. Kurti’s request for more time has angered opposition parties, which argue that the constitutional deadline has already expired. They have questioned the legality of continuing the parliamentary session under the circumstances. The confrontation inside parliament underscored the increasingly tense political atmosphere in Kosovo, where repeated disagreements have delayed key constitutional and institutional processes. Despite the disruption, Kurti appeared to remain composed. Reports said he indicated that he was willing to face criticism if it helped bring political rivals to the negotiating table. The political impasse follows June’s parliamentary election, in which Kurti’s Vetëvendosje movement emerged as the largest political force but failed to secure enough support to move forward without cooperation from other parties. Kosovo has experienced repeated political instability in recent years, with disagreements over the formation of institutions contributing to uncertainty over the country’s political direction. The egg-throwing incident has now become a striking symbol of that frustration, turning an already tense parliamentary dispute into an extraordinary scene that quickly attracted international attention. For Kosovo, however, the bigger issue remains unresolved: whether political parties can overcome their differences and break the institutional deadlock before the crisis deepens further.

  • | |

    Climate authority summoned again as questions grow…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Islamabad: The Pakistan Climate Change Authority has been called back before a Senate committee only days after Chairperson Sherry Rehman strongly questioned why a new authority was operating alongside the Climate Change Ministry, asked what new work it was actually doing and raised concerns over staff costs, duplication and the use of public money. The fresh meeting will again focus almost entirely on the authority, its work, projects, programmes and progress. The quick return of the issue to the committee has increased pressure on the authority to clearly explain why it exists and what results it has produced that the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination could not already deliver. At the previous meeting, Sherry Rehman repeatedly asked officials what work the authority was doing that the ministry was not already responsible for. She questioned whether the government had effectively created a parallel structure carrying out the same work on climate mitigation, adaptation, coordination and policy implementation. Rehman said the presentation before the committee did not show a clear new role for the authority. She also questioned why another institution was being created at a time when the ministry itself was facing shrinking development budgets. One of the strongest moments came when the committee discussed the authority’s staffing and expenditure. Rehman referred to a sanctioned strength of 24 positions and said employee related expenditure had already reached around Rs 80 million according to the presentation placed before the committee. She questioned why these costs were being incurred when she could not see a clear difference between the work of the authority and the ministry. She warned officials not to treat the meeting as a routine presentation exercise and demanded direct answers about public spending and actual results. Rehman also questioned whether creating the authority had brought new climate experts into government. Members asked whether the purpose was to recruit technocrats who could not otherwise be brought into the ministry. However, Rehman said the presentation appeared to show many of the same officials who had already worked inside government departments. She described the situation as a reshuffling of bureaucracy rather than the creation of a new technical institution. She said fragmentation was already a major government problem, with different organisations working separately on connected climate and disaster issues. According to her argument, creating another body without a clearly different mandate could increase costs while making responsibility more confusing. Rehman also questioned why the authority had been activated years after the law creating it first appeared. She said the law allowed the authority to exist but argued that this did not necessarily mean the government was forced to operationalise it. She said earlier governments had discussed removing such overlapping structures instead. During the exchange, she said she had opposed operationalising the authority while serving as minister because she feared it would create duplication. She told the committee that the result now appeared close to what she had warned about: officials were moving between the ministry and the authority instead of creating a completely new technical team. The authority defended its role. Dr Muhammad Rafiq told the committee that the authority was originally designed to provide technical support to the ministry. He acknowledged that more explanation was needed regarding what the authority was delivering against its original responsibilities. He suggested that the ministry and authority should be given an opportunity to return with a clearer presentation explaining what results they expected to achieve and what the authority could do that the ministry could not. The committee was told that the authority was still incomplete. Officials said a permanent chairperson was still being appointed and that only three members were working at the authority with a limited number of staff against the total positions planned. The authority also presented one of its strongest arguments in defence of its performance. An authority member told the committee that it had become Pakistan’s first public sector organisation to qualify as a delivery partner with the Green Climate Fund through the relevant mechanism. The official said this had been achieved by only three members and without technical assistance. He argued that this status could help the authority develop technical proposals and bring more climate finance into Pakistan. Rehman was not convinced that this achievement alone justified a separate authority. She argued that Green Climate Fund financing had already been coming to Pakistan through government structures and questioned why a completely new authority was needed when a climate finance office could operate within the ministry. She again asked why project development and technical hiring could not be handled directly by the ministry. Her central question remained the same throughout the discussion: what exactly could the new authority do that the ministry could not already do? The ministry told the committee that it had a supervisory and controlling role over the authority and that the authority’s budget passed through the ministry. However, Rehman continued to question how effective that control was if the authority could hire staff and exercise statutory powers separately. She asked officials to explain how rotating officials into a separate authority would make climate work more efficient when the ministry itself was losing development resources. Professor Dr Zahoor Ahmed Bazai, who identified himself as an unpaid member nominated to the authority and as a climate change academic, defended the institution. He told the committee that the authority was included in the climate law and that members had been nominated through the formal process. He argued that the authority was intended to provide expertise and serve an advisory role. Rehman said her criticism was not directed personally at individual members. She said the bigger problem was duplication between institutions and the growing number of attached bodies dealing with similar climate matters. The committee chairperson was also critical of the presentation the authority gave. Rehman said the presentation was not strong enough to be used by Pakistan at an international climate forum and described it as outdated in style. She said that if the authority wanted to demonstrate its value and

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *