The top stories and transfer rumours from Wednesday’s newspapers…

FOOTBALL

Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly considering leaving Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr in the summer, with a return to Europe or a move to the MLS considered potential options – Daily Mail

Two failed Spurs bidders are joining forces to try to buy Daniel Levy’s stake in Tottenham – The Sun

Football’s lawmakers will vote later this month on whether to bring in countdowns to prevent timewasting and on the introduction of a 10-second substitute rule – Daily Mail

Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes has spoken candidly about his relationship with head coach Arne Slot – and is “absolutely convinced” that their big-money signings will pay off – Daily Mirror

Liverpool won a race against Chelsea to secure the £60m signing of Jeremy Jacquet on Deadline Day, but the deal has failed to impress former France international Christophe Dugarry who has accused the Reds of “losing their minds” – Daily Mail

The FA has proposed significant and controversial changes to the Women’s FA Cup, such as keeping the Women’s Super League top four apart until the semi-finals and removing the draw after the round of 32 – The Times

SCOTTISH FOOTBALL

Manager Jim Goodwin has slammed the decision to boot out both of Dundee United’s red-card appeals – Scottish Sun

CRICKET

Brendon McCullum has defended Harry Brook by insisting his England white-ball captain is a smart tactician who is misunderstood, even though he is a “work in progress” off the field – The Times