All posts by h716a5.icu

Aston Villa fans will be concerned about the amount of outgoings currently being talked about at Villa Park.

Indeed, every passing day seems to throw up another rumoured casualty from the West Midlands giants, with Ollie Watkins the next high-profile name to be linked with an exit as Arsenal show an interest in the lethal Premier League goal machine again.

Emiliano Martinez’s name is also in this constant conversation, with a move to Manchester United reportedly lined up.

But why is this all happening? Well, Unai Emery’s men are trying to balance the books by whatever means necessary to comply with stringent PSR rules.

Aston Villa chasing £30m signing

Martinez and Watkins aren’t the only key members of the Villa squad who could depart the Midlands this summer with Arsenal also allegedly eyeing Morgan Rogers.

If the England international does exit, presumably for a colossal fee, they would need a replacement.

Well, according to reports from Spain, via Sport Witness, Villa are continuing to hunt the signature of Real Betis starlet Jesus Rodriguez this summer.

It is stated that several clubs are looking at the teenage sensation, with Cesc Fabregas’ Como said to be accelerating their efforts to tempt the Spanish hotshot to Italy, alongside Monchi also powering ahead with Villa’s own advances.

Betis are reportedly willing to sanction a move for Rodriguez to leave when he returns from international action with Spain U21s at the ongoing Euros tournament, with a £30m price-tag also above his head if he does seek out a new home shortly.

Villa could well have that amount in the bank if a major sale is signed off on, with this going down as a worthwhile investment if Rodriguez can instantly acclimatise to his new environment.

Already, the Seville-born attacker has made waves in the senior picture at Betis, as seen in this coolly tucked away chance in European action.

How Rodriguez could become Emery's next Rogers

Much like Emery managed with a once wide-eyed Rogers, Rodriguez could soon be transformed into a far more impressive forward player under the ex-Arsenal manager’s expert guidance.

After all, Rogers was only two years older than Rodriguez is now when he was first handed a senior shot at Villa, having cost £15m to obtain from Middlesbrough.

Now, Rogers is spoken about as a player worth around £100m, and for good reason too when you consider his whirlwind rise at Villa Park from promising youngster plucked out of the EFL, to one of the key first names on Emery’s teamsheet.

Rogers wasn’t an overnight success, however, with only four goal contributions coming his way from his first 16 Villa first-team outings. But, the rest is history now for the “unstoppable” attacker, as Jamie Carragher glowingly labelled him last season, with a spellbinding 29 goal contributions next to his name during his second campaign at Emery’s men.

Rodriguez will hope he can be turned into a similar superstar under the Spaniard’s tutelage, with the 19-year-old already being described as “explosive” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, even as he’s still navigating the fledgling stages of his career.

First team

32

3

2

Betis B

36

9

3

Everything is pointing in the direction of the Betis number 36 going on to live up to his hype, with Rodriguez ahead of Rogers’ development already by showing immense flashes of his quality at the very peak of Spanish football.

To add context, when Rogers was only 19 years of age himself, he was attempting to cut his teeth in the Championship with AFC Bournemouth, while Rodriguez is already confidently scoring in the Conference League.

Patience will need to be exercised on the ends of the Villans like they offered up to a growing Rogers, but with their depleted numbers down the left wing clear for all to see, Rodriguez might be immediately chucked into the deep-end, with a hope he doesn’t sink under all the pressure and instead excels.

Amazing Watkins replacement: Aston Villa ready move for "special" £32m CF

It’s set to be a busy summer transfer window at Aston Villa, so could Unai Emery be reunited with a “fantastic” PL star as Ollie Watkins’ replacement?

1 ByBen Gray Jun 20, 2025

Chelsea’s pursuit of Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens failed to materialise before Tuesday’s transfer deadline prior to the Club World Cup. Fabrizio Romano confirmed that ‘negotiations will continue’ later in the summer, but it is unclear if a deal will be agreed with the Englishman’s current side.

Thus, the Blues might turn their attention to other options out wide, with Enzo Maresca clearly eying up a new winger this summer. One of the names on their list appears to be Alejandro Garnacho, with Chelsea ‘monitoring’ his situation at Old Trafford. He could cost upwards of £70m, as per The Telegraph.

However, there is an alternative name to Garnacho and Gittens, who might prove to be a better option than the Argentine international.

Latest on Chelsea's search for a winger

Chelsea’s summer transfer plan is clear and quite similar to previous windows under Todd Boehly. Buy young, talented players with a high ceiling who can impact now and in the future. That is certainly a policy that Gittens and Garnacho fit into.

Transfer Focus

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

Well, so does Athletic Club and Spain attacker Nico Williams, a player Chelsea have been constantly linked with. Those rumours are not going away, with one Spanish outlet suggesting the West Londoners are one of the sides ‘courting’ him this summer, and could line up a move.

They will face competition from other powerhouses of European football, too. One of those is London rival Arsenal, with Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich also showing strong interest.

The 22-year-old has a £49m release clause in his deal, meaning Chelsea, or indeed any other side interested, would have to pay that fee to bring him in.

Why Williams would be a good signing

It has proved to be yet another strong campaign for Williams. He maintained his starting spot in the Spain side over the most recent international break, showing just how good his form has been in 2024/25. He is an “electric” player, according to Statman Dave.

For Los Leones in all competitions last term, the 22-year-old attacker played 45 games, finding the back of the net 11 times and grabbing seven assists in that time. The winger mainly played on the left, although he did operate on the right-hand side twice.

Williams’ standout form surely came in the Europa League, a competition in which his side reached the semi-final before losing to Manchester United. The Spaniard scored five goals and assisted two in their run to the penultimate stage, including one strike against Rangers in the quarter-final.

The Spain international, who was born in Pamplona, had a far more fruitful season than Garnacho when it comes to goals and assists.

He notched up ten top-flight goal involvements and seven in Europe, compared to eight in the Premier League and five in the Europa League for the Man United number 17.

Indeed, Garnacho did finish the season with an impressive tally of 21 goals and assists, although he did struggle for consistency in the Premier League and Europa League.

At one stage, he went 16 Premier League games without scoring or assisting, a drought that was broken by a goal against Leicester City.

Looking at the underlying numbers on FBref, there is further data to suggest Williams is better than Garnacho. For example, the Spaniard averages 5.29 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes, compared to the United winger’s 3.63 shot-creating actions each game, illustrating the greater threat he poses in the final third.

Goals and assists

0.52

0.37

Key passes

2.05

1.68

Shot-creating actions

5.29

3.63

Goal-creating actions

0.61

0.37

Take-ons completed

3.43

1.31

For a player of that quality, a deal of £49m seems a bargain for Chelsea this summer. He is, at this stage, outperforming Garnacho, as the stats suggest, and could prove to be the perfect signing if they miss out on Gittens.

Chelsea’s transfer plan this summer is clear, and Williams fits the bill perfectly. He could be a superb addition for the Blues as they look to rise up the Premier League table in 2025/26.

Maresca's own Wirtz: Chelsea want "world-class" £100m star after Gittens

Chelsea could be about to make a move for a player who could emulate Florian Wirtz’s switch to England.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 11, 2025

Chelsea are set for a hectic next few days, as they attempt to take advantage of this unique registration period and sign new players before the June 10 deadline.

Chelsea attempting winger signing before Club World Cup

Despite reported talks for targets in other positions, there is a belief among some reliable media sources that Chelsea hold a serious desire to upgrade their wide options after completing a deal for Liam Delap.

£80m forward clear he wants to join Chelsea with "positive talks" held

Enzo Maresca’s side are very active in the market right now.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 6, 2025

Chelsea haven’t given up on signing AC Milan keeper Mike Maignan, who’s told the Rossoneri he wants a move to Stamford Bridge, but plans to bring in a winger have also been accelerated after the departure of Jadon Sancho.

Sancho returns to Man United after Chelsea failed to agree personal terms with the £300,000-per-week forward, and they will now pay a £5 million penalty fee to Ruben Amorim’s side after opting out of the obligation to buy in his contract.

This leaves Maresca a wide-man short, and Myhkailo Mudryk also remains ineligible due to his on-field ban for failing a drugs test.

“Chelsea’s next priority after Liam Delap is a right-footed left winger,” said reliable journalist Ben Jacobs on X this week.

“Alejandro Garnacho, Nico Williams and Jamie Gittens are three names under consideration. The desire to add another winger is more with Mykhailo Mudryk’s absence in mind. Process likely to take time regardless of the outcome.

“Another forward is also possible as Christopher Nkunku is expected to leave. This could be another number nine, despite faith in Nicolas Jackson. Or it could be a versatile attacking midfielder. Chelsea will be opportunistic should Morgen Rogers become available, but Aston Villa have no intention to sell even with a tight PSR position.”

Movement has occurred behind-the-scenes in Chelsea’s pursuit of some targets, mainly Williams and Gittens.

Chelsea have informed Williams’ agents that they’re prepared to pay his £50 million release clause, and have been pushing for Gittens as an alternative to the Spain winger recently (Simon Phillips).

Chelsea propose swap deal in discussions for Mohammed Kudus

According to reports from the last 24 hours, Maresca’s side do have another option – West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus.

The Ghanaian’s contract includes an £85 million release clause, which becomes active in July, but the Hammers are open to entertaining other offers.

That is according to The Mirror and journalist Ryan Taylor, who report that Chelsea have held talks with West Ham over Kudus. The Blues are said to have proposed a “multi-player-package deal” during these discussions, meaning they’re prepared to use more than one squad member as makeweights to bring the African’s price down.

However, West Ham are not interested in a transfer of this nature, meaning Chelsea may have to go back in with another proposal if they’re to strike a deal for the 24-year-old.

Kudus is widely expected to leave the London Stadium, two years after Chelsea tried to sign him from Ajax in 2023, and despite a mixed 2024/2025, the former Eredivisie starlet has still impressed in flashes during his time at Rush Green.

“He’s a top, top talent and I think we haven’t seen the best of him yet,” said teammate Aaron Cresswell.

“I won’t go near him in training because I know if I’m going to try to knock him off the ball. I had better make sure he’s not looking and doesn’t see me coming. You just can’t get near him. He’s so strong, so quick, so sharp.”

Wolverhampton Wanderers know they will enter the 2025/26 season without the services of Matheus Cunha.

The Brazilian is set to join Manchester United in a deal worth £62.5m in the coming weeks and this will leave the Old Gold short in the attacking department.

Cunha was arguably the reason why Wolves remained in the Premier League last season. All good things must come to an end, however, and Vitor Pereira will now be looking to replace the former Atlético Madrid man when the transfer window opens.

Matheus Cunha's Wolves record

Cunha was the club’s biggest attacking threat last season. Not only did he top the scoring charts with 17 goals, while finishing second in the squad for assists with six in all competitions.

Indeed, Cunha registered the most goal involvements (21) in the squad during the Premier League, while also ranking first for big chances created (13), key passes per game (1.8) and successful dribbles per game (1.8).

Season

Games

Goals

Assists

2024/25

36

17

6

2023/24

36

14

8

2022/23

20

2

1

If it weren’t for his contributions in the final third, Wolves might have found themselves in graver danger towards the end of the season, that’s for sure.

Now the onus is on Pereira to find a suitable replacement for the Brazilian talisman. One who can hit the ground running at Molineux at the start of next season.

Could the manager target a player from a fellow Premier League club?

Wolves could land Premier League star as Cunha replacement

Last week, Birmingham World claimed that the Old Gold were considering making a move for James McAtee of Manchester City this summer.

A fee of around £25m appears to be what Pep Guardiola is set to demand for the youngster. Given that Pereira will have money to play with upon Cunha’s sale, this shouldn’t be a problem.

McAtee has already made 48 Premier League appearances throughout his embryonic career, scoring six goals and grabbing three assists.

Despite playing 27 times last term, only nine of these came in the starting XI. If McAtee wishes to fulfill his potential, moving to a club like Wolves will allow him to play every week.

Hailed as a “special player” by Guardiola, the Englishman would certainly offer something extra to the Wolves side next term.

Indeed, when compared to his positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues, McAtee ranks in the top 1% for goals (0.78) and the top 6% for total shots (3.53) per 90 over the previous 365 days.

If given chances, he will certainly score plenty of goals for Wolves. Furthermore, he also created two big chances and had a goal conversion percentage of 25% in the Premier League during the 2024/25 season.

This was despite averaging just 24 minutes per game for City. He might not be at the same level as Cunha just yet, but the English talent certainly has the tools required to eventually get there one day.

Transfer Focus

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

Pereira will need to act swiftly, as there are a few other teams also seeking a move for the City starlet this summer.

Offer made: Wolves submit bid for £42m star who "never puts a foot wrong"

The Old Gold have now made a move for a defender.

ByDominic Lund May 29, 2025

Andrea Berta has only been in his role as Arsenal’s sporting director for a matter of months but he is already faced with one of the most important summer’s in the club’s recent history.

While injuries, bizarre officiating and a lack of firepower have all contributed to the Gunners’ perplexing season, the fact of the matter is they have regressed.

Their title challenge petered out in January and although they did go further in Europe, reaching the semi-finals of the Champions League, their reason for exiting was the same as last year; they lack players capable of scoring goals.

So, with that in mind, it’s just as well Arsenal are signing a midfielder first…

The latest on Arsenal's pursuit of Martin Zubimendi

We jest, of course, but Arsenal are now already on the verge of securing their first major addition of the Berta era.

The Gunners have been hot on the tail of Martin Zubimendi for a while now with reports emerging in January that they were set to get a deal over the line.

However, the Real Sociedad midfielder has been here before. Liverpool thought they had signed him last summer, only for the Spaniard to stay in LaLiga.

A year on, and it does look as though the 26-year-old will finally be leaving Spain behind with Fabrizio Romano reporting on Saturday that Arsenal have ‘agreed a deal’ to sign the player this summer, now set to trigger his €60m (£51m) release clause.

It’s reported that the midfielder has ‘verbally agreed’ to sign a long-term deal.

Despite all of that excitement, according to reports, Zubimendi isn’t the only player they are working on right now.

Arsenal move closer to striker signing

This weekend has been a pretty frantic one as far as transfer news is concerned, with Arsenal also looking to improve their options in the final third.

While the likes of Benjamin Sesko and Alexander Isak continue to be linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, it’s Viktor Gyokeres who seems to be the most likely at the moment.

Transfer Focus

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

Indeed, according to reports in Portugal, via Sport Witness, Arsenal have ‘submitted’ their first official offer for the Sporting CP striker, a bid worth €75m (£63m).

It’s suggested that fee is unlikely to be accepted with the club’s president, Frederico Varandas, believing he can get more for a player with an €100m (£85m) release clause.

While that might dampen the spirits of those at Arsenal, there is hope that a deal can be struck with Gyokeres actually having already agreed personal terms with the club.

Why Gyokeres is more exciting and important than Zubimendi

With Jorginho leaving north London behind at the conclusion of his contract and the ageing Thomas Partey yet to pen new terms, signing a new midfielder this summer is actually of utmost importance, particularly one who can play just in front of the defence.

It’s safe to say that Zubimendi can do that perfectly. It was he who was subbed on for Rodri in last year’s European Championship and the fact Spain went on to win it without the Manchester City midfielder on the pitch speaks volumes of how good the Sociedad star was.

During that game, he completed 92% of his passes and won all five of his ground duels. While Zubimendi isn’t as physical as someone like Partey, he’s very Jorginho-like in his play style. He dictates the game, presses well and rather crucially, would give Declan Rice the freedom to play as the attacking number 8 on a more regular basis.

But, for all the positives of signing Zubimendi, it’s Gyokeres who is the most important deal here.

Why? Well, the plain and simple fact is that Arsenal absolutely have to sign a new striker this summer if they want to challenge next season.

Even before Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus got injured over the winter, the Gunners needed more in attack but that has only been made even more obvious over the last few months.

While Leandro Trossard has been used as centre-forward on a few occasions, it’s Mikel Merino who’s largely been tasked with playing as a makeshift attacker.

To his credit, he’s done a solid job, notably scoring against Real Madrid. That was one of six goals he’s scored in 11 matches so far up top.

However, it’s pretty clear this isn’t sustainable and that was made more obvious against PSG. Merino didn’t have a poor second leg but time and time again Arsenal put a dangerous ball into the six yard box, only for no one in red and white to be there.

Well, in comparison, Gyokeres is always in the right place at the right time. Previously of Coventry City, where he scored 22 in 50 outings during the 2022/23 campaign, he’s only hit another level after moving to Sporting.

1. Viktor Gyokeres

38

2. Mo Salah

28

3. Harry Kane & Robert Lewandowski

25

4. Biereth, Mbappe & Retegui

24

5. Alexander Isak

23

6. Dembele, Haaland & Marmoush

21

The Swedish sensation has been the most profilic forward in Europe during his time in Lisbon, bagging a whopping 43 goals in 50 games last season and finding the net on 52 occasions in another half a century of matches this term.

Very few do it better than Gyokeres and whether or not his profile is the most ideal for Arsenal, perhaps they just need to keep things simple. Arsenal need goals more than anything else and the “monster” striker – as he was described by journalist Alex Turk – does goals.

While Isak – valued at £150m in some circles – is reportedly the dream signing, Gyokeres is more prolific and he’s more cost-effective.

Arsenal's £30m dud is very quickly becoming their new Xhaka & Aubameyang

The mercurial Arsenal star looks like a different player this season.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 11, 2025

Over the years, Liverpool have signed numerous players who have had a huge impact on their squad, ultimately helping them claim Premier League glory this campaign.

Virgil van Dijk is undoubtedly the biggest example, costing £75m from Southampton back in January 2018 and being a spare head in their backline ever since.

The Dutchman, who’s now the club’s captain, has played every minute of the league season in 2024/25, helping the side keep 14 clean sheets in the process – the most of any side in the division.

Players like Mohamed Salah and Alexis Mac Allister have also been influential in their success, nailing their place down in various positions across the field.

However, this summer presents a fresh opportunity for Slot to add new blood to his squad, with numerous players already emerging on their shortlist ahead of the window.

The latest on Liverpool’s hunt for new signings this summer

Martin Zubimendi is a player who’s been on Liverpool’s radar constantly over the last few years, even having an offer accepted for him last summer.

The Spaniard turned down a switch to Anfield before reemerging on their shortlist ahead of the summer, but he appears to be heading to Arsenal in a £50m move after Fabrizio Romano’s latest report.

However, the same can’t be said for right-back Jeremie Frimpong, with the Dutchman appearing to be edging ever closer to completing a switch to Anfield ahead of the summer.

It’s been confirmed that the 24-year-old is keen on a move to the club after the Reds held talks with Bayer Leverkusen over a deal for the full-back, who has a £29.5m release clause in his current deal.

However, despite the moves for the aforementioned duo, one current first-team player is already worth as much as the pair combined, highlighting the great work done by the hierarchy in recent times.

The Liverpool star who’s worth as much as Zubimendi & Frimpong

Slot’s ability to win the league title in his first season in charge is nothing short of remarkable, undoubtedly getting the best out of the players who are already at the club after his appointment.

Such success could lead to an exciting prospect for supporters when he’s able to spend money this summer and make his own stamp on the squad on Merseyside.

The likes of Frimpong could add further quality to the first team squad, helping his compatriot achieve the unthinkable and retain their title in 2025/26.

However, the Leverkusen star could also link up well with current midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, who’s managed to hugely impress throughout this season, after getting the chance to thrive under Slot’s guidance.

After joining for £34m from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2023, the 22-year-old only made 12 league starts in his first season – unable to cement his place in the starting eleven.

However, his importance to the squad has been immeasurable this time around, starting all but one meeting and being a crucial cog in the midfield for his compatriot.

His underlying stats are just as impressive, completing 90% of the passes he’s attempted, allowing him to notch a tally of four assists in the Premier League this campaign.

Games played

35

Assists

4

Pass accuracy

90%

Tackles won

52%

Interceptions made

1.7

Successful dribbles

1.1

Aerials won

65%

Gravenberch has also starred without the ball, winning 52% of the tackles he’s entered, whilst making 1.7 interceptions per 90 – often being the player to break down the opposition’s threat going forward.

As a result, he’s now valued at a staggering £80m by FootballTransfers, a mammoth increase after his big-money transfer to Merseyside less than two years ago.

His subsequent value is the same as Zubimendi and Frimpong’s respective transfer fees of £50m and £30m, highlighting the progression he’s made throughout this season.

If the club are to mount a charge to maintain their title glory next season, investment will be crucial, handing the manager the funds he needs to make adequate changes.

However, the form of Gravenberch will also be imperative, with his performance levels certainly aiding their pursuit if he can replicate the success he’s enjoyed in Slot’s debut campaign.

A dream Huijsen alternative: Liverpool open talks to sign £67m defender

Liverpool could be about to forget about Dean Huijsen with a move for another defensive star.

ByEthan Lamb May 14, 2025

A “world-class” striker is now a contender to lead the line for Liverpool next season, with Arne Slot set to be handed a war chest in the summer transfer window, according to a report.

Nunez's Anfield future in doubt

During the January transfer window, Darwin Nunez was heavily linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, but with FSG unwilling to potentially weaken the Premier League title push by sanctioning a departure, the Uruguayan ultimately ended up remaining at Anfield.

Now, however, the Reds have changed their stance, with Slot’s side willing to cash-in on Nunez in the summer, at which point they are expecting a big approach from a club in the Saudi Pro League, potentially recouping the £62.5m initial fee they shelled out.

As such, Slot is looking increasingly likely to be tasked with bringing in a replacement for the striker this summer, and a new report has suggested the manager is set to be given a transfer war chest in the summer window.

Liverpool could sign dream Trent successor who's 'one of the best in the PL'

Alexander-Arnold’s decision has left Liverpool in search of a new right-back.

ByAngus Sinclair May 6, 2025

FSG are willing to back their manager by splashing the cash on new additions, and according to a report from TalkSPORT, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen is a contender to lead the line for Liverpool next season.

Mohamed Salah has carried much of the goalscoring burden this season, with not enough contributions coming from elsewhere, which means the Reds are set to rival the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United for a striker this summer by handing the manager a war chest.

With Nunez potentially in line for an exit, the need to bring in a striker could be exacerbated, and Osimhen is one of the candidates on the shortlist, but the Nigerian is not the only option, with Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko also of interest.

"World-class" Osimhen would be huge upgrade on Nunez

The Uruguay international has scored some important goals this season, most notably bagging a late brace to secure a 2-0 win at Brentford in January, but performances of that quality have been few and far between, and an upgrade is needed this summer.

There are plenty of indications that the Galatasaray loanee could fit the bill, given that he has maintained a fantastic record in front of goal in all competitions this season.

Competition

Appearances

Goals

Assists

Turkish Super Lig

27

24

5

Europa League

7

6

2

Turkish Cup

3

3

1

Not only has the 26-year-old impressed on loan in Turkey, but he also caught the eye during his time with Napoli, receiving high praise from Serie A analyst Matteo Bonetti.

Previous reports have suggested that Osimhen could be available for £62m, which appears to be a fair fee, given his stellar record in front of goal in both Turkey and Italy, and a move to Anfield should be an attractive proposition after this season’s title triumph.

Arsenal are “ready to pay” the price needed to sign a Premier League star who manager Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta both want at the Emirates, according to reliable journalist David Ornstein.

Arsenal face PSG in all-important Champions League semi-final

With no games to worry about this weekend, Arsenal are currently anticipating their most important game of the season so far – a blockbuster Champions League semi-final first leg clash against Ligue 1 champions PSG.

Arsenal demand major Thomas Partey concession in talks over new deal

The Ghanaian has arguably enjoyed his best campaign at Arsenal.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 25, 2025

Arsenal blew away Real Madrid in the last round, knocking Carlo Ancelotti’s 15-time European champions out in the quarter-finals via a 5-1 aggregate scoreline, and they’ll take plenty of encouragement from what was a truly dominant display over two legs against one of the continent’s most feared sides.

Luis Enrique’s side pose an equally tough test, if not more so, having enjoyed an excellent Champions League campaign to date whilst remaining unbeaten in Ligue 1.

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

Southampton (away)

May 25th

PSG are the media’s favourites to win this year’s Champions League, but you can never discount an Arsenal side absolutely brimming with quality.

Arsenal's transfer plans for this summer

Away from the pitch, Berta and co are already planning for next season by identifying the club’s preferred summer signings. According to some reports, Arsenal want to reinforce the goalkeeping department, full-back area and in midfield, whilst also potentially signing a new left-winger, right-winger and striker (GiveMeSport).

A new centre-back to rotate with Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba isn’t out of the question either, with Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen reliably believed to be a top target for the Gunners.

Arsenal have held talks with Huijsen’s representatives ahead of the summer window, according to multiple media sources, after his excellent debut season in the Premier League where he’s seriously impressed under Andoni Iraola.

The 20-year-old, who actually scored against north London rivals Tottenham earlier this season, will be allowed to leave for £50 million – the value of his release clause.

Arsenal "ready to pay" release clause for Dean Huijsen

Now, as per Ornstein in a Q&A for The Athletic, Arsenal are “ready to pay” Huijsen’s release clause after negotiating with his camp recently. It is also believed that Arteta and Berta are both huge fans of the ex-Serie A centre-back, but they still face stiff competition from rivals.

“It is strong and they remain in contention,” said Ornstein on Arsenal’s interest in Huijsen.

“They are among the clubs (with Chelsea, Liverpool, Newcastle and Tottenham) who have met his representatives, with Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta keen to sign the Spain international. Whether or not Arsenal win the race is unclear because it’s still open and I’m not aware of a front-runner between them, Chelsea and Liverpool to date. Real Madrid has always carried huge appeal to Huijsen, we hear, but so far they haven’t moved on this situation, and I’m sure he is philosophical about that. Previously, I think Kiwior exiting Arsenal was highly possible… that might be less certain following his recent rise to prominence.

“Either way, Huijsen would play a lot of football at Arsenal, and they can now show him many examples of how, under Arteta, players have developed extremely well and become top-level talents. Now, this doesn’t mean he will opt for them; there are pros and cons to each of the suitors, all of whom are ready to pay the release clause. Huijsen and Bournemouth want it sorted sooner rather than later. Let’s see what he decides.”

The Spain international was handed his first senior caps in a very competitive national team as well this season, highlighting just how well he’s performed, and Huijsen now looks set to be one of this summer’s most in-demand defenders.

Everton might have lost against Manchester City at the weekend, but they gave it a good go and continue to look levels above the disjointed mess that prompted Sean Dyche to step down in January after The Friedkin Group assumed ownership.

David Moyes will be delighted with the job he’s done since returning to the helm in January, nearly 12 years after leaving his Goodison Park dynasty to take on the job at Manchester United.

The fans are certainly happy, buoyed by the Scotsman’s impact as he prepares to lead the Toffees into a new chapter at Bramley Moore.

Time was when Everton were devoid of hope, but that’s no longer the case. TFG are set to hand Moyes funding to strengthen the squad this summer, but more than a few stars are set to leave to make room.

Long-serving striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin is among them.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin's Everton future

Calvert-Lewin might have been at Everton for an age, signing from Sheffield United in a £1.5m deal way back in 2016. But all things end, and Moyes is prepared to let him leave in the coming months as he puts his own stamp on his team.

The 28-year-old is indeed out of a deal this summer and Everton have been linked with a range of strikers as they prepare to cut ties.

Beto’s emergent shooting success has tempered the England international’s struggles, but it’s not good for Calvert-Lewin on a personal level, for Moyes is hardly going to be impressed by his three-goal return in 2024/25, having missed a whopping 13 big chances, as per Sofascore.

With 57 Premier League goals to his name, Calvert-Lewin has more than played his part. But injuries, consequent inconsistencies and his high earnings have confirmed that the decision to part ways would be the right one this summer.

He’s not the only one.

Everton veteran has reached the end

Everton are set to replace a range of first-team players in the transfer market this summer, with as many as 15 out of contract.

Seamus Coleman joins Calvert-Lewin on that list, and like the centre-forward he must be allowed to leave as Everton step into a new era.

The most experienced man in the Toffees squad, Everton signed a teenage Coleman from Sligo Rovers in his homeland for a jaw-dropping £60,000 figure, one of the biggest bargains in Everton’s modern history.

Now 36, he’s gone on to make a shedload of appearances, but only four have come this season, with Coleman last featuring on Boxing Day.

Given that he’s yet to even feature during Moyes’ second term, sitting as an unused substitute across five of Everton’s past six top-flight fixtures, it seems nailed on that the two parties will finally part when his £55k-per-week contract expires this summer.

1.

Seamus Coleman

426

2.

Jordan Pickford

314

3.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin

269

4.

Michael Keane

227

5.

Idrissa Gueye

206

Coleman has played his part over a decade and a half of service, and he’s not doing too badly in the all-time rankings either, sixth in the all-time charts. There’s no doubt that Coleman’s a ‘club legend,’ even if it’s a moniker he refutes.

Hailed as a “warrior” by former manager Frank Lampard, Coleman is indeed a stalwart at Everton, but it feels fitting in a way that he should close the door on his storied Merseyside journey as Goodison Park prepares to lock the turnstiles for the final time.

Jake O’Brien is now the star man at right-back, and maybe Moyes will target a more conventional wide defender to compete with him this summer.

Whatever happens, it’s time for Coleman to bow out.

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ByAngus Sinclair Apr 18, 2025

Manchester United might be rotting in the lower levels of the Premier League tower, but there’s a hopeful feeling that Ruben Amorim is brewing something worthwhile at the Theatre of Dreams.

The business end of the domestic season might be one big dead rubber, but the Red Devils are still in with a shout for redemption in the Europa League, preparing for the two-legged quarter-final tie against Lyon.

Winning the second-rate continental title would hand United a golden ticket into next season’s Champions League, an incredible thought given the overall narrative of Man United’s season.

But winning is in this club’s DNA, and if INEOS manage to complete a positive transfer window, there’s every chance that Amorim could turn a much-needed corner and start to build something special.

Though United’s goalscoring woes have led online discourse to centre chiefly around the need for a new centre-forward, that’s hardly the only position requiring surgery right now.

Where Man Utd need to strengthen this summer

Rasmus Hojlund has fallen by the wayside this season, having scored just three times in the Premier League across 26 appearances. Though he’s often devoid of service, the young Dane is hardly imposing himself on defenders, serving dutifully as the focal frontman.

Joshua Zirkzee, at least, offers a bit more across the park, but then he’s also lacking the clinical touch in front of goal that the Manchester side so desperately need to reach the next level and bring some attacking fluency back to the team.

However, Old Trafford needs furnishing across any number of further areas. Some of the rot will depart at the end of the term: Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans – earning a combined £335k per week – are all approaching the end of their contracts.

Depth will thus be needed, with Amorim himself confirming that “big players” are needed. Patrick Dorgu, a tactically suitable wing-back, has already been welcomed, but another wide defender should be targeted and indeed an athletic midfielder too.

However, with Antony and Marcus Rashford out on loan and neither expected to play a part in Amorim’s future plans, a wide forward is also needed, and INEOS are lining up the perfect man, one of Europe’s very best.

Man Utd pushing for UCL superstar

TEAMtalk have reported that Man United have received a major boost in their bid to sign Barcelona’s Raphinha following the Brazilian’s bust-up with head coach Hansi Flick at the weekend.

Transfer Focus

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

While Raphinha has been one of the best attacking players in Europe this season, such an altercation will only fan the flames of his potential departure, especially when considering La Blaugrana’s interminable financial problems.

Understood to be worth in the ballpark of €80m (roughly £67m), the 28-year-old is obviously in the upper financial bracket but has showcased through the 2024/25 campaign that Amorim would receive bang for his buck.

With United deemed to be ‘pushing’ for his signature, the former Leeds United man could be the marquee summer signing that is needed.

Why Raphinha would be perfect for Amorim

Barcelona signed Raphinha from Leeds for £55m in 2022, the winger rejecting interest from Arsenal and Chelsea to move to Spain.

He’s ebbed and flowed a bit over his three terms in La Liga, but Raphinha has found his footing and then some in Flick’s setup, having incredibly scored 27 goals and laid on 20 more assists across 47 matches in all competitions this term.

While his catalogue of goals takes the cake, Raphinha is one of Europe’s most creative players, making 23 big chances in the Spanish top flight alone. On top of that, he’s won 55% of his duels, as per Sofascore, which is no small feat for an attacking player.

The potent force behind Barcelona’s Champions League charge, Raphinha is being regarded as a genuine Ballon d’Or contender after such an impressive haul.

In fact, Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley has even pronounced him to be “Europe’s best player” this season, such is the sheer heights of his influence over a resurgent Barcelona side.

His new-found deadliness in front of goal has actually led data-driven site FBref to record Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah as one of his most comparable players.

He’s been United’s bane for some time, but the Egyptian’s talents would go down a treat in Amorim’s system, who could sign a younger and more athletic version in Raphinha.

Goals

0.71

0.70

Assists

0.32

0.47

Touches

56.29

45.23

Touches (att pen)

5.31

8.93

Shots taken

3.61

3.338

Shot-creating actions

5.41

4.30

Progressive passes

4.27

4.02

Progressive carries

3.03

3.85

Successful take-ons

1.52

1.34

Comparing the respective players’ performances over the past year, you begin to see the value that Raphinha would add to Amorim’s squad, adding a Salah-like attacking certainty to the mix.

Raphinha is a silky and fleet-footed winger, but he’s traded in some of that unrelenting intensity for a more refined and purposeful goalscoring presence.

Liverpool are going to win the Premier League title and so much of their success is down to Salah’s remarkable consistency in and around the final third. Across 45 matches in all competitions, the 32-year-old has scored 32 goals and supplied 22 assists for his teammates.

With Amorim’s preference for overlapping, energetic wing-backs, you start to see the vision. Raphinha is hardly lazy, but his tactical approach, working so well at Camp Nou, could remain intact or maybe even rise to the next level, becoming United’s attacking superstar and being afforded even more room to showcase his prolificness.

Given that he’s already thrived in the Premier League before, with Leeds, Raphinha might just be the tonic to United’s troubles. Dan James once remarked that the £201k-per-week talent is a “magician” of a winger, but since he’s been away, there’s been a discernible shift to something more mechanical, economical, effective – call it what you will.

The important bit is that Raphinha has hit a new level and is reaching some rather concrete Ballon d’Or-related conversations. He could emulate Liverpool’s Salah and lead the Theatre of Dreams back to glory.

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