All posts by z3u9t.icu

Newcastle United’s summer business underlined just how far the club has come since the takeover and how much further they still want to go.

It was a window marked by frustration, last-minute deals and big-money moves.

The Magpies were forced to bide their time as a string of forward targets slipped away, with Liam Delap, Hugo Ekitike, Joao Pedro and Benjamin Sesko all proving elusive.

Persistent interest in Wolves’ Jorgen Strand Larsen and Brentford’s Yoane Wissa also seemed destined to end in disappointment.

Yet as the window drew to a close, Newcastle’s hierarchy finally pulled the trigger.

Stuttgart striker Nick Woltemade arrived in a £69m deal, paving the way for Alexander Isak’s record-breaking £125m switch to Premier League Champions Liverpool on deadline day.

Wissa’s determination to join also paid off, with a £55m agreement finalised as the player drove through the night to force the transfer.

Early results, however, have been mixed. A goalless draw with Aston Villa, a 3-2 home defeat to Liverpool and another 0-0 against Leeds have highlighted Newcastle’s need for attacking fluency.

Wolves at St James’ Park and a glamour Champions League tie against Barcelona await after the international break – fixtures that will test Howe’s new-look group immediately.

Nick Woltemade: Newcastle’s headline addition

At 23 years old and standing at 1.98m, Nick Woltemade is the archetypal modern target man.

Tall, technically secure, and more mobile than his frame suggests.

His 12 goals in 28 Bundesliga games for Stuttgart last season marked him out as one of Europe’s most exciting young forwards, and it was no surprise that Bayern Munich had three bids rejected earlier in the summer.

Persuaded by direct conversations with Howe, Woltemade chose Newcastle as the platform for the next stage of his career.

The Germany international already has four senior caps to his name and impressed at the U21 European Championships this summer.

Most recently, he showcased his playmaking instincts with an assist in Germany’s 3-1 win over Northern Ireland.

A closer look at his data from 2024/25 paints a picture of a well-rounded striker.

Matches Played

28

Goals

12

Assists

2

Progressive Carries

31

Progressive Passes

52

Across 28 appearances, Woltemade was involved in 14 goals, with a shot-on-target percentage of 50%.

He averages 1.28 shots on target per 90 and creates 4.38 shot-creating actions in the same span, evidence of his ability to contribute beyond finishing.

His 2.89 progressive passes and 1.72 progressive carries per 90 show a player comfortable linking play, while 26.1 carries per 90 underline his willingness to drive the ball forward.

Even defensively, Woltemade has shown application, recording 0.56 tackles and 1.28 blocks per 90.

For a Newcastle side that often struggles to break down low blocks, his mix of aerial presence, movement and creativity looks like the perfect tool.

That being said, perhaps Newcastle have a gem in their ranks who could surpass the big German.

The hidden Newcastle gem with superstar potential

While Woltemade is already making headlines, Newcastle may have secured an even greater long-term prize in the form of Vakhtang Salia.

The 18-year-old Georgian striker joined on a five-year deal this summer and is expected to be a key figure in the U21 squad this season.

He arrives from Dinamo Tbilisi, where he registered eight goals and four assists in 57 senior appearances.

Modest numbers on paper, but performances that convinced scouts from across Europe.

Salia has already attracted admiration from giants including Real Madrid, Barcelona, PSG and Bayern Munich, while both Arsenal and Manchester City explored a deal.

In the words of journalist Graeme Bailey he is regarded as “one of the best teenage prospects in the world,” a label that has earned comparisons to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

What makes Salia so intriguing is his potential. At a market value of just €800k (£600k), Newcastle have invested in a player who could grow into a genuine superstar.

His performances at youth international level for Georgia have already caught the eye, and he has shown maturity beyond his years in leading the line against more experienced defenders in the Georgian league.

For Howe, Salia represents an opportunity. The club must carefully manage his development, ensuring he does not suffer the setbacks that have stalled other highly-touted prospects.

If handled correctly, though, Newcastle may find themselves with a striker capable of eclipsing Woltemade.

PIF have already signed Newcastle's new Elliot Anderson and he's "terrific"

Eddie Howe will hope he has his own Elliot Anderson now at Newcastle United in this terrific talent.

ByKelan Sarson Sep 8, 2025

Chelsea are set for a short pre-season after winning the Club World Cup final, with just five weeks separating their 3-0 win over PSG in New Jersey and their first Premier League game of 2025/2026 against Crystal Palace.

Chelsea hold talks with £100k-per-week England star this week

Enzo Maresca is prioritising one key area.

ByEmilio Galantini Jul 17, 2025

They have scheduled just two pre-season matches as a result of their CWC triumph, needing to fit a holiday in for both players and staff after what was a successful but very long campaign.

Cole Palmer

7.33

Moises Caicedo

7.02

Enzo Fernández

6.95

Nicolas Jackson

6.88

Noni Madueke

6.82

via WhoScored

Chelsea will take on both Bayer Leverkusen and AC Milan on August 8 and August 10 respectively, but as things stand, these are the only friendlies they’ll play before facing Palace in the top flight a week later.

It remains to be seen how Enzo Maresca’s side will fare given their minimal preparation, but the Italian did get a chance to try out new tactics during their CWC campaign in the US.

He also managed to give some of his major summer signings a run-out. Joao Pedro seriously impressed at the tournament in particular, scoring three goals in three CWC games, including a brace in their semi-final against Fluminense and a goal in the final against PSG.

Despite Chelsea’s need to sell players and balance out the squad due to a pact with UEFA (Kaveh Solhekol), Maresca could still add more fresh faces before their new season kicks off against Palace.

This will be dependent on departures (Simon Phillips), but perhaps Djordje Petrovic’s £25 million move to Bournemouth has freed up space for AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan to come in.

The France number one was a serious target for Chelsea earlier in the window, and they tried to complete a deal for him before competing in the CWC. However, Milan and Chelsea failed to find an agreement, despite Maignan’s eagerness to join.

Despite reports to the contrary, Chelsea could go back in for Maignan before deadline day on September 1, with Robert Sanchez also told he’s free to find a new club away from Stamford Bridge (Graeme Bailey).

Mike Maignan very keen to join Chelsea, he's a top target

TEAMtalk have another update on the situation this week, claiming Maignan remains a top target for Chelsea.

The 30-year-old is also “enthusiastic” about joining Maresca’s side this summer, even if negotiations previously failed, with the main roadblock being Milan’s £22 million asking price – a figure deemed too high by Chelsea considering both his age and his contract situation.

However, given Maignan’s pedigree as one of world football’s most commanding shot-stoppers, £22 million is surely a price worth paying – especially if they sell Sanchez.

Every title-winning side in history have one thing in common – the presence of a world-class keeper. Maignan, who’s been lavished with praise by his fellow top-level players, arguably stands out as the best option by far this summer.

“He is physical, quick, he has clean technique. He is very strong. He is one of the best in the world,” said Liverpool keeper Alisson about Maignan’s quality.

“The quality of goalkeepers has really increased – Mike Maignan is within this elite.”

Tottenham Hotspur still haven’t made headway in the summer transfer market, but Thomas Frank is at least in place as the new manager, and a forward plan is being put into place.

Of course, there’s no need for concern. Miles of transfer market activity still stretch in front of the Lilywhites, who are in a fantastic position after ending 17 years of searching for silverware with victory over Manchester United in the Europa League, thus securing a seat at the Champions League table.

How does Frank propel this Spurs side forward? Will the Danish tactician take the seeds from Ange Postecoglou’s chaotic, up-and-down tenure and plant them in fertile soil?

The Londoners have a lot to work out, but Frank’s track record denotes his potential at the Tottenham helm. His adaptable and dynamic coaching style will be expected to breed greater consistency than we’ve seen in recent years. To achieve this, his approach must see a big upswing in defensive security.

Why Frank needs to fix Spurs' defence

Last season, Tottenham’s woes were shaped by the defensive calamities which plagued Postecoglou’s system, preventing it from ever reaching its full capacity. That and an overload of injury problems, that is.

16.

Tottenham

17th

65

17.

Wolves

16th

69

18.

Leicester

18th

80

19.

Ipswich

19th

82

20.

Southampton

20th

86

While the loan signing of versatile defender Kevin Danso has been made permanent (along with forward Mathys Tel), Tottenham need to enforce a sharp turnaround in defensive stability and mentality.

Losing Cristian Romero will hamper that. The Argentina international is on Atletico Madrid’s radar and may leave the English capital this month, with Spanish outlet AS revealing the La Liga side are prepared to table a £61m offer.

What happens there is uncertain at this stage, but we do know Frank will have a contingency plan if he does lose his combative centre-half. Interest has been shown in Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi through 2025.

However, it’s not just central defenders needed to create a squad capable of competing across multiple fronts. Indeed, Daniel Levy and co are looking toward the flanks.

Spurs lining up new full-back

As per transfer insider Graeme Bailey, Tottenham have been in contact with Sunderland for Dennis Cirkin, four years after the left-back moved from Spurs to the Stadium of Light as a teenager.

Cirkin, now 23, has been an integral part of a Sunderland side that has stabilised itself in the EFL and will now return to the Premier League, though he might yet jump ship.

With Levy holding talks with Spurs’ divisional rivals, there’s a good chance this one might gather pace in the coming weeks, especially as the Black Cats are thought to be sounding out potential replacements.

Why Spurs want to sign Dennis Cirkin

Cirkin has never played a game in the Premier League, but he has established himself as “the best full-back in the Championship”, as has been remarked by journalist Josh Bunting.

After featuring prominently for Tottenham’s development sides, Cirkin has now made 116 appearances for Sunderland, of which 72 have come in the Championship, with eight goals scored and four assists placed.

While a robust physicality and a desire to get forward are staples of the Englishman’s skill set, his defensive roots are forked deep indeed, having averaged 2.5 tackles and 5.6 successful duels per league match last season, as per Sofascore.

His flair and roundedness, partnered with his development further down the English pyramid, even suggest that Cirkin could be Frank’s own version of Dele Alli, who was once such an indomitable force at Tottenham.

Dele joined Tottenham one decade ago, in 2015. He was highly touted, signing him from MK Dons for £5m and beating off fierce competition from clubs such as Liverpool.

An attacking midfielder, Dele transcended his role and became one of the greatest young stars that English football had ever seen, with his former manager, Jose Mourinho, even predicting he would become “one of the world’s best”.

This was hardly baseless; he was named the PFA Premier League Young Player of the Year across his first two seasons at Spurs, having notched 67 goal contributions across his first three seasons in the top division.

And like Cirkin, Dele was more than capable of a wonder strike.

Mourinho has also recognised the former prospect’s skills. Back when the Portuguese manager managed Tottenham, he singled Cirkin out for praise after watching the development side compete in the UEFA Youth League.

Mourinho said: “I couldn’t be at the game but I watched on video our youth team playing in the [UEFA Youth League], and we also have [Dennis Cirkin].

“OK, he’s 17, but he’s a kid with a lot of quality, and I look forward to bringing him to train with us, and to help his development.”

These are players greatly opposed as far as positional value is considered, and Cirkin is older than his teenage compatriot was when he first headed down N17, but Tottenham know the value of signing a player who has cut their teeth in the EFL and would arrive in the Premier League with the expectation that they would look firmly in place among the high-level competition.

Dele’s story might have been a poignant one in recent years, but there’s no question he proved to the masses that those who foster their talents below the Premier League can become superstars in the division.

Cirkin has the advantage of having graduated from Tottenham’s academy, but he’s now in with a shout for returning and jockeying with Destiny Udogie and Djed Spence (who would shift back to the right upon Cirkin’s arrival), and becoming a major player for an exciting new Spurs project.

Could be better than Mbeumo: Spurs submit bid for £65m Premier League star

Tottenham are looking to make some signings to kickstart the Thomas Frank era.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Jul 4, 2025

Arsenal are in advancing talks to sign yet another player for Mikel Arteta, following an already-hectic last seven days when it comes to the club’s recruitment drive.

Agbonlahor slams "very odd" Arsenal transfer decision as Berta agrees deal

The Gunners are shopping “at Asda”.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Jun 27, 2025

Spain midfielder Martin Zubimendi was in London this time last week to formalize his transfer to N5 and sign all documents as a new Arsenal player (Fabrizio Romano), with the 26-year-old becoming Andrea Berta’s first signing as new sporting director.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

Almost immediately after Zubimendi, goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga also travelled to the English capital to complete his own Arsenal move, coming after Berta triggered the £5 million release clause in his Chelsea contract.

The Spanish duo were swiftly followed in their journey to N5 by Brentford captain Christian Norgaard as well, with Arsenal agreeing an initial £10 million deal, plus a potential £5 million in add-ons (Ben Jacobs), to sign the Denmark international as a replacement for Thomas Partey.

Norgaard has been authorised to have a medical at Arsenal (Fabrizio Romano), but according to recent reports, Berta may soon add yet another player to their growing list of very recent new additions.

Arsenal "set to sign" Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia

On Thursday afternoon, news emerged that Arsenal have opened talks with Valencia over versatile centre-back Cristhian Mosquera.

The 21-year-old could play at both right-back and at the heart of Arteta’s defence, if the Gunners can agree a potential £17 million deal, with Mosquera up for grabs at a cheap price considering he’s about to enter the final 12 months of his contract.

The news was originally shared by X account ‘HandofArsenal’, with credible media sources then reporting that Arsenal are now in pole position to sign the Spaniard ahead of RB Leipzig, Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Munich.

Now, journalist Graeme Bailey, writing in a piece for TBR Football, has shared a further update on the story.

Bailey reports that Arsenal are “set to sign” Mosquera, with talks reaching an advanced stage after “positive” negotiations, but it could spell the end for back-up defender Jakub Kiwior.

The latter impressed alongside William Saliba last season when Gabriel Magalhaes was out injured, but Mosquera’s possible arrival is “set to signal the departure” of Kiwior as he prioritises a return to Serie A.

Called a “sensational talent” by members of the media, Kiwior is apparently preparing to leave the Emirates as a result of this move for Mosquera, with GiveMeSport also reporting that personal terms have already been agreed.

While Mosquera will serve as a back-up option initially, Arsenal are said to believe that the defender has serious potential to become a first-team regular in the coming years.

While the Premier League’s elite have been spending money by the bucketload – Liverpool and Manchester City, we’re looking at you – Arsenal have been idle.

Should we be surprised? Not really. Over the last two transfer windows, the Gunners have failed to improve their forward line and efforts to finally sign a striker so far this summer have been fruitless.

Two names dominate the headlines with Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres at the forefront of their minds. The trouble is, both deals look complicated.

Reports from Sky Germany suggest that Arsenal are unwilling to pay RB Leipzig’s asking price for Sesko, while it was claimed in Portugal a few days ago that they have paused their efforts to sign Gyokeres, instead looking at Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.

Signing a new centre forward isn’t the only thing on the agenda for Andrea Berta this summer.

Arsenal’s hunt for a new winger

Due to a number of factors, chiefly Bukayo Saka’s workload and the inconsistent form of Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli, Arsenal need a new winger this summer.

Unfortunately, it now looks as though it’s unlikely that’ll be Athletic Bilbao’s Spanish sensation, Nico Williams.

The north Londoners have been interested in the 22-year-old for over a year now but the wide attacker is prioritising a move to Barcelona, his dream club, instead.

As a consequence, interested parties in the form of Arsenal and Chelsea have ‘cooled’ their interest in the words of The Athletic’s David Ornstein.

With that blow fresh in the mind, it looks as though Arsenal have been ramping up their efforts to sign Real Madrid star, Rodrygo.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

That’s according to journalist Ben Jacobs, who took to social media on Tuesday afternoon to reveal that Mikel Arteta and Co have a ‘genuine interest’ in the Brazilian.

Exploratory talks dating back to May have already been held with the player’s representatives but it will take a fee of around £77m to convince the Spanish giants to sell.

Madrid have a new manager in the shape of Xavi Alonso and it appears as though the former midfielder isn’t too keen on Rodrygo. Consequently, Arsenal should do all they can to convince the player to jump ship.

How Rodrygo compares to Nico Williams

Williams has swiftly been thrust into the limelight over the last year when aged just 21, he was one of the players of the tournament at Euro 2024 as his nation won the title.

The left winger was fabulous throughout, most notably scoring the opening goal in the final against England.

Since then, however, he’s failed to truly kick on, even if the frightening potential still lurks within.

Williams has never been a rampant goalscorer, finding the net on just five occasions in the league this season.

Rodrygo, on the other hand, would be capable of offering Arteta the added goals he needs his side to produce if they are to challenge for the title and Champions League.

Last season, Martinelli and Trossard managed to score just 16 goals between them in the 73 Premier League matches they featured in. Well, in his own last 73 LaLiga matches, Rodrygo has a better record than both players combined, scoring 20 times.

While 2024/25 wasn’t his best campaign, shoved out on the right-hand side to accommodate Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe, this is a player who is far more comfortable in front of goal than someone like Martinelli, and crucially, Williams too.

You only have to cast your minds back to 2022/23 when the Brazil superstar found the net 19 times, bettering Martinelli’s best season haul of 15, which coincidentally came in the same campaign.

Another string to Rodrygo’s bow is not just his versatility – able to play up front or on either flank – but his creativity.

Games

159

141

141

125

Goals

50

33

35

28

Assists

30

18

26

29

Goals per game

0.31

0.23

0.24

0.22

G/A per game

0.42

0.36

0.43

0.45

Analysing the data, Williams is also a particularly creative individual, thriving in that area more than his goalscoring.

However, Arsenal are still proficient creators of chances. What they need is someone capable of sticking the ball in the back of the net and Rodrygo has done that on a far more regular basis in all competitions since 2022 than Martinelli, Trossard and Williams.

Last term, no player in red and white reached double figures for goals. Kai Havertz was their top scorer with 15 and they ended the campaign with Mikel Merino playing as a makeshift striker.

On that evidence, Arsenal need a centre-forward, but they also need more contributions from elsewhere on the pitch. Madrid’s “world-class superstar”, as he’d been described by teammate Luka Modric, would certainly help in that regard.

He's shades of Nwaneri: Berta holds talks to sign £40m star for Arsenal

Arsenal are looking at signing one of Europe’s best young prospects this summer.

ByMatt Dawson Jun 18, 2025

Even at their lowest ebb, Manchester United can still pull a rabbit out of the hat on the transfer front, with the INEOS regime overseeing a hectic start to the summer window following what was a desperately disappointing season.

While we may not be talking about Lamine Yamal or Desire Doue coming to Old Trafford, for once the Red Devils appear to be making astute moves in the market, having lasered in on two Premier League-proven talents, in the form of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.

The deal for the former has already been confirmed, after United agreed to trigger the Brazilian’s £62.5m release clause, while the club are also preparing a second bid for Mbeumo, having seen a total offer of around £55m rejected by Brentford.

Should that deal for the Cameroon international get over the line as expected, Ruben Amorim will have been handed two players who contributed 35 league goals in total last term – just nine fewer than what the Old Trafford side recorded collectively in the top-flight.

Such enhanced firepower is then desperately needed in Manchester, hence why those deals could well be followed by the pursuit of a new centre-forward, with Amorim seemingly dreaming of a reunion with Sporting CP talisman, Viktor Gyokeres.

The rekindling of that partnership might be the primary focus at present, although United may also have the opportunity to pounce on another exciting opening.

Latest on Man Utd's striker search

Much to the surprise of many, both Cunha and Mbeumo have settled on the Theatre of Dreams as their preferred destination, even with Amorim’s side having failed to secure European qualification.

Arsenal

3

1

0

Chelsea

5

4

1

Liverpool

8

1

0

Man City

7

0

1

Man Utd

5

1

2

Spurs

4

1

1

Total

32

8

5

Arsenal

8

1

0

Chelsea

8

3

3

Liverpool

7

1

0

Man City

5

0

1

Man Utd

8

1

1

Spurs

8

4

1

Total

44

10

6

As noted by journalist Ben Jacobs earlier this week, the same appears to be true of Gyokeres, with the prolific Swede open to the move having remained in contact with his former boss.

Reportedly available for ‘just’ €70m (£59m), the 27-year-old’s signing wouldn’t break the bank, although with United looking likely to fork out around £120m plus on Cunha and Mbeumo, it remains to be seen what they will have left to work with in the budget.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

With that in mind, it could be worth changing tact by securing a significant bargain with the capture of Jonathan David, with Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport – via Sport Witness – outlining that the Canadian is prioritising a move to Manchester.

Indeed, United are named alongside Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona as his preferred picks, albeit with United seemingly at an advantage as the 25-year-old – who is set to leave Lille on a free transfer this summer – particularly keen on a Premier League switch.

While the report does suggest that INEOS haven’t made a move as yet, prior speculation did claim that the Red Devils had him on their striker shortlist.

Why Jonathan David would be a better deal than Gyokeres

First and foremost, it would be a truly remarkable coup to be able to land a player of David’s quality on a free, with podcaster Tony Marinaro hailing him as a “phenom” and “one of the best strikers in the world”, amid his standout form in France.

That bargain deal would ensure that United then have funds left to play with to strengthen other areas of the pitch, with The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell noting that Amorim is keen on acquiring an ‘athletic No.8’, while a new wing-back could also be ‘on the agenda’.

With the future of Andre Onana also uncertain in the sticks – having notably made five errors leading to a goal in the top-flight and in Europe last season – there does remain other priority positions, hence why a move for David over Gyokeres would appeal.

Of course, Gyokeres is Amorim’s man having netted 66 times in just 68 games under the Portuguese in Lisbon, with his total tally standing at 97 goals in 102 games for the Primeira Liga side to date.

That said, it was only two years ago that the 6 foot 2 marksman was operating in the Championship, having previously been allowed to leave Brighton and Hove Albion for just £1m, during Dan Ashworth’s stint at the helm.

How Arsenal's striker targets compare in 2024/25.

To his credit, Gyokeres has recovered to emerge as the “hottest striker in Europe” since then, as per ESPN’s Mark Ogden, although in the case of David, the Brooklyn-born sensation has quietly been delivering the goods over a more extended period at the top level.

Indeed, the in-demand forward has scored 13 goals or more in all five of his seasons in Ligue 1, since arriving from Gent in 2020, while previously netting 18 league goals in his final campaign in Belgium. It’s for no reason that Canadian pundit Iain Hume has described him as a “world-class player”.

Such remarkable consistency is certainly to be admired, with the 61-cap international also thriving in this season’s Champions League, after scoring seven times in ten outings. Gyokeres, for comparison, scored just six times in eight games for Sporting.

In Europe’s top tier competition, as per FBref, David notably ranked in the top 20% of strikers for non-penalty goals per 90, while also ranking in the top 5% for pass completion. Gyokeres, meanwhile, ranked in just the top 24% and the top 18% for those same two metrics, respectively.

A real menace from open play and evidently adept at holding up the ball, the Lille talisman has been a real unsung performer in recent years, with now perhaps the time for his big chance to finally come at an elite club.

Yes, Gyokeres may be the man Amorim wants, although to be able to sign a player like David on the cheap would surely be the better deal.

Amorim’s next Bruno: Man Utd to make approach for “world-class” talent

Manchester United could be about to land a star who could follow in Bruno Fernandes’ footsteps.

2 ByEthan Lamb Jun 7, 2025

Chelsea chiefs are now internally debating a potential deal for another rising star, according to a report out of Stamford Bridge this week.

Chelsea continue transfer policy of signing high-potential starlets

Since the start of 2025, despite Enzo Maresca strongly suggesting that Chelsea need to bring in more experienced players, BlueCo have shown no sign of slowing down when it comes to their transfer policy of signing world football’s brightest up-and-coming talents.

£172k-per-week striker is waiting for Chelsea to contact him about joining

Chelsea are set for a big summer after qualifying for the Champions League.

2 ByEmilio Galantini May 26, 2025

Earlier this year, the west Londoners agreed a double-deal with Sporting CP to sign their rising star duo, Geovany Quenda (18) and Dario Essugo (20), for a total fee of around £62.5 million, with the former set to fully join them in 2026 and the latter this summer.

Rank

Team

Points

GD

Man City

71

+28

Chelsea

69

+21

Newcastle

66

+21

6

Aston Villa

66

+7

7

Nottingham Forest

65

+12

It is now also being reported by reliable media sources that Chelsea are planning a pre-2026 deal for 22-year-old Strasbourg striker Emanuel Emegha, as confirmed by Fabrizio Romano.

Since Romano’s initial report, French media sources have claimed that Chelsea have moved in with a six-year contract offer to Emegha, and an agreement for the Ligue 1 sensation is merely a “matter of time”.

“Chelsea have offered Emanuel Emegha a six-year contract valid until June 2031,” wrote Foot Mercato reporter Santi Aouna on X.

“The intention is for him to stay in Strasbourg for another year and then go to Chelsea. A full agreement is just a matter of time.”

As Maresca’s side carry on planning for the long-term, Brighton starlet Valentin Barco, who spent the 2024/2025 on loan at Strasbourg, has now entered their radar.

Chelsea hold internal talks over signing Valentin Barco from Brighton

The Argentine midfielder can play in a variety of roles on the left, and he was the “most signed wonderkid” on popular PC game Football Manager last year.

According to CaughtOffside, while no formal approach has been made yet, Chelsea are holding internal talks over a potential move for Barco, and Maresca is believed to be a personal admirer of the 20-year-old.

“(He’s a) left back but he’s not going to be playing there, I don’t think,” said South American football expert Tim Vickery.

“He’s a left-sided attacking midfielder. Very good running with the ball. Amazing power that he generates from his left foot. Good from set-pieces.

“He can combine well. He had a sweet little thing going with Edison Cavani at Boca Juniors.”

Barco is fresh off a productive campaign at Strasbourg, finishing 24/25 as one of their best-performing players in Ligue 1 by average match rating per 90 – starting 14 Ligue 1 matches and bagging two assists (WhoScored).

It is little surprise Chelsea have taken note of his displays, possibly while keeping tabs on Andrey Santos’ progress in France and scouting Emanuel Emegha. In any case, the Blues’ relationship with their sister club may end up paying dividends again.

Man City were once linked with a move for Barco in 2023 as well, indicating he’s a player of real promise.

Going in search of their next Tom Rogic, Celtic now reportedly have concrete interest in signing an attacking addition who’s valued at just £1.5m ahead of this summer’s transfer window.

Next Rogic could be key for Rodgers

During his time at the club, Rogic more than played his part to continue Celtic’s Scottish dominance and ensure that Brendan Rodgers’ first spell ended with a place in the history books. Now, in his second stint in charge, it’s clear just how much of an impact a player in a similar mould would have on the current Celtic side.

Appearances

272

Goals

46

Assists

51

Scottish Premiership titles

7

Scottish Cups

5

Scottish League Cups

5

A player who made his mark going forward in key moments, Rogic’s best work came when working under Rodgers, who was full of praise for the Australian during his time in Scotland.

The Celtic boss told reporters when Rogic returned from a spell on the sidelines in 2017: “He’s back in the squad. The magic man is back – what a player. He’s an amazing player. I think he can grow into one of the top midfield players in Europe.

“You saw him grow in the Champions League. You saw him against Manchester City and just purr at his quality. There was a big disappointment when he got injured because the week building up to it he was amazing. Top players know where there is space and he’s as good as any I’ve seen at finding space.”

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Eight years on, Rogic is now retired and Rodgers is searching for his next arrivals at Celtic amid reports that the Bhoys have now set their sights on signing a 23-year-old star who has already been compared to the Australian.

Celtic interested in "Rogic-esque" Fallenius

According to Fotboll Direkt in Sweden, Celtic now have a concrete interest in signing Oskar Fallenius from Djurgarden this summer afetr sending scouts to watch him in aciton.

The winger reportedly cost the Swedish club just £1.5m in 2023, but that price is only likely to increase if they decide to sell their emerging star in the coming months.

Celtic’s interest should come as no shock. As detailed by Celtic Down Under’s – a Celtic fan channel in Australia – and X account UnDiluted, Fallenius is a potential “Rogic-esque” fit on the Bhoys’ radar.

The podcaster reiterated that whilst the Swede is not a like-for-like clone of Rogic, he does share some similar traits. The Australian’s greatest strengths came in his close control, powerful striking ability and creative vision. In comparison, Fallenius is similarly physical – standing at 5’11 and reportedly has a reputation for his skill and movement.

With that said and Celtic’s interest reportedly concrete, Fallenius looks set to be one to watch in the coming months.

The campaign approaches its final stage, but for Liverpool, it’s all done and dusted. In the best way. Arne Slot has won the Premier League in his first season as the Anfield head coach.

Who saw this coming? Certainly not BBC Sport’s experts, for none of the 30 pundits listed Liverpool as champions in their pre-season predictions.

We should cut the analysts some slack; after all, the Reds had just lost Jurgen Klopp, and recent history tells the tale of a decline when iconic managers depart after so many successful years.

The odds were stacked against Slot’s Liverpool, but they have prevailed to clinch the club’s 20th top-flight title. So many players stepped up, but none more so than Mohamed Salah, who fulfilled a promise in putting the Merseysiders back on their perch.

And he’s ready to do it all over again.

Why Mo Salah can go again next season

Salah is surely a shoo-in for the Premier League’s Player of the Season award. Not only has he clinched the league title, but he’s done so with an absurd haul of 28 goals and 18 assists across 36 matches, with two fixtures still to go.

1 – Mohamed Salah

28

18

46

2 – Alexander Isak

23

6

29

3 – Bryan Mbeumo

18

8

26

4 – Erling Haaland

21

3

24

5 – Cole Palmer

15

9

24

Salah needs just two goal involvements from his final two games to break Alan Shearer and Andy Cole’s long-held shared record for contributions in a single Premier League season (47), and those hauls were from a 42-match campaign.

But wait, he’s 33 this summer. Surely now is the time for the Egyptian king to regress, to accept the call of Father Time and take a seat on the back bench.

This is unlikely. Salah’s as hungry as ever, if not more so, with time against him. Slot has tweaked his talisman’s game to provide him with greater freedom in the final third, fewer duties from a defensive standpoint.

Salah is an elite athlete and his tactical intelligence has never been finer tuned. As per Sofascore, he’s only averaging 0.6 tackles per game this season but has seen an upswing in dribble and duel metrics. And, of course, he’s never been more prolific.

Trent Alexander-Arnold has been spoken about ad nauseam this season, and at least now there’s clarity regarding his future. However, Liverpool do need to source a new creative lifeforce, and if Jeremie Frimpong is the man for the job at right-back, it won’t be him.

That’s okay, Trent is a unique kind of playmaker. But Slot still wants someone to adopt the new playmaking mantle, and FSG appear willing to grant the coach an incredible new star.

Liverpool in contact with marquee signing

You’ll likely be somewhat aware of the incipient Florian Wirtz saga, with the German playmaker looking to leave Bayer Leverkusen this summer.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Bayern Munich had been thought to hold the lead in the race but The Athletic have since reported that Manchester City and Liverpool have made contact with the 22-year-old’s representatives.

One of the most coveted talents in world football, Wirtz’s signing would send shockwaves across English and European football, should he alight at either end of the M62.

It goes without saying that he’d cost a pretty penny, £126m, in fact, according to reports.

Why Florian Wirtz is Salah's dream signing

Wirtz is only young, but after being crowned last season’s Bundesliga Player of the Year as an invincible champion, it’s fair to say he’s “probably the best midfielder in the world”, and former Leverkusen star Patrick Helmes has said exactly that.

Wirtz has plundered his way through Germany’s finest competitors in recent years, having scored 57 goals and supplied 65 assists across 190 senior appearances for Leverkusen since graduating from their youth ranks.

This season alone, he’s created 21 big chances across the Bundesliga and Champions League, as per Sofascore, having scored six goals across nine fixtures on the continent to underscore his ability to do it on the biggest stage.

This talented playmaker would replace Trent and relocalise Liverpool’s creative focus. Given that he’d be in close proximity to the inswinging Salah, he could be the perfect signing to keep the leading forward firing across the final two years of his Liverpool career.

Attacking midfield

169

48

57

Left winger

21

4

5

Right winger

17

8

5

Centre-forward

15

7

7

Central midfield

5

0

3

Wirtz’s dynamism is a wonderful thing, but he’s typically found in a roaming central role, with license to thrill.

Salah would be sure to benefit from this presence, for the Leverkusen man ranks among the top 8% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for assists, the top 7% for shot-creating actions, the top 6% for progressive passes and the top 2% for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref.

Contrast Wirtz’s creativity with that of Dominik Szoboszlai, for example, and you begin to see why Liverpool are so invested. The Hungarian, tireless and tenacious as they come, has provided only 14 assists across 90 games as a Red.

He’s also made just 12 big chances across 34 Premier League fixtures this season, and with Alexander-Arnold heading out the door, the addition of a creative player of Wirtz’s ilk is only magnified.

Whether Liverpool prevail in this race will remain to be seen for the immediate future, but the fact FSG are pushing is a good thing, especially when considering the importance of keeping Salah performing at the top of his game.

Stagnancy begets decline, but Liverpool are ready to throw the kitchen sink at exciting signings for Slot’s title-winning squad.

More exciting than Frimpong: Liverpool make enquiry for "world-class" star

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ByEthan Lamb May 14, 2025

Manchester United’s Premier League campaign in 2024/25 has been one to forget, with the side set to finish in their lowest-ever position, along with the lowest points tally.

Ruben Amorim’s men currently sit in 15th place with just three games remaining, seeing all focus switch onto their prospect of claiming a Europa League triumph come the end of the season.

The Red Devils have conceded an average of 1.5 goals per 90 to date, undoubtedly playing a key role in their inability to rise up the table after the manager’s appointment back in November.

However, they still have the opportunity to end the season on a high, currently in a European semi-final and holding a 3-0 advantage over Athletic Club following the away leg.

Should they go all the way and win the competition, they will secure Champions League qualification, with added squad depth needed to compete at the top level of European football next campaign.

An update on United’s hunt for new additions

Given the summer transfer window is now just around the corner, numerous links have emerged, including that of Liam Delap, who has been touted as the club’s top target for the attacking department.

The Ipswich Town talisman has netted 12 goals in his 34 appearances in 2024/25, but looks set to leave Kieran McKenna’s side after their relegation back to the Championship, which has seen the forward’s £30m release clause become active.

However, despite the improvements in forward areas, the backline is also in need of investment, potentially coming in the form of Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo, according to reports in Spain.

It states that the Red Devils are currently preparing a £68m bid for the Uruguayan international, who has made 22 appearances across all competitions for the LaLiga giants.

The report also claims that he’s hugely admired by staff behind the scenes at Old Trafford, potentially being a key piece in their rebuild, which desperately needs to happen this summer if they are to move in the right direction.

Why United’s £68m target could revive Andre Onana

Goalkeeper Andre Onana was seen as the man to take United to the next level after arriving back in the summer of 2023, replacing fan-favourite David de Gea in the process.

His ball-playing attributes were seen as a key attribute to help the side progress, but the move up until now has been a disaster, often producing a clanger which has resulted in their lowly league standing.

The Senegalese has made five errors leading to goals across all competitions, with his mistakes against Lyon nearly putting the side out of the tournament and ending any hopes of a trophy.

Questions have been asked about his long-term future at Old Trafford as a result, with it unclear whether Amorim will stick or twist with the former Inter Milan shot-stopper in 2025/26.

However, he could be revived at the club, especially if the side are to bolster their backline with a move for Araujo, with the 26-year-old having the defensive qualities to improve the situation.

The Uruguayan, who’s been labelled “one of the best defenders in the world” by Carles Puyol, has starred this season despite his lack of action, registering two combined goals and assists.

He’s also starred at the back, completing 91% of passes, handing United a composed presence at the back and undoubtedly taking the pressure off Onana at the back.

Games played

10

Goals & assists

2

Pass accuracy

91%

Progressive passes per 90

4

Tackles won

1.9

Blocks made

1.5

Clearances made

4

Aerials won

3.8

Araujo has also impressed out of possession, winning 1.9 tackles per 90 and making 1.5 blocks per 90 – preventing the ball from getting through and facing Onana between the sticks.

Defensive solidity is desperately needed at Old Trafford, enabling Amorim to take the side to the next level and hopefully make him a success during his tenure at the club.

The deals they make over the next couple of months will be crucial, needing to sign the right players to take them back towards glory, with Araujo the man who could massively bolster the defensive department.

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