All posts by z3u9t.icu

Aston Villa have now emerged as strong candidates to sign a “fantastic” forward, with sporting director Monchi said to be keen.

Villa keen on new winger despite signing Sancho

After a disappointing start to the Premier League season, with Unai Emery’s side failing to score a single goal in their opening three games, Jadon Sancho made a move to Villa Park on deadline day, arriving on a season-long loan from Manchester United.

However, both Paul Scholes and Jamie Carragher aren’t convinced about the new Villa signing, with the former saying: “Unai Emery might be good for Sancho but I do think it’s a weird signing.

“Villa Park is a massive pitch and he’s got a lack of pace and a lack of legs. He’s got some brilliance but what’s his real strength? I don’t really know.”

Carragher added: “I don’t know what Sancho’s thing is. Every player has something but I can’t think in my head what he does. I’ve never seen it in my life. I haven’t.”

It remains to be seen whether the 25-year-old is able to prove the doubters wrong, but Aston Villa have already set their sights on a different winger, with a report from Spain revealing they are now strong candidates to sign Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Brandt.

NSWE to make January move for £40m striker who loves scoring vs Aston Villa

The Villans have identified a striker as their top January target.

ByDominic Lund Sep 8, 2025

Monchi is said to be personally keen on a move for Brandt, who could arrive at Villa Park on a free transfer next summer, if the winger doesn’t extend his contract with Dortmund, which expires in less than a year’s time.

Dortmund are set to try and negotiate a new deal with the winger, however, with the German club reluctant to lose him on a free, having been widely reportedly to have shelled out €25m (£22m) to sign the former Bayer Leverkusen man back in 2019.

"Fantastic" Brandt would be versatile option for Emery

The 29-year-old has featured in various positions throughout his career to date, including both wings, attacking midfield and central midfield, which would make the forward a versatile option for Emery, and he has received plaudits from Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl.

Back in 2023, Kehl said: “His development has been great. He’s much more stable, robust and present. He has always shown in phases that he’s a fantastic player, but now he shows it over a longer period of time.”

The Bremen-born attacker has also outperformed Sancho across a number of key attacking metrics over the past year, ranking in the 97th percentile for assists per 90, when compared to other attacking midfielders and wingers.

Average per 90

Julian Brandt

Jadon Sancho

Non-penalty goals

0.17

0.15

Assists

0.43

0.20

Shot-creating actions

3.88

3.57

As such, Brandt could be a solid signing, and his potential availability on a free transfer is a bonus for Villa, who are known to be treading a fine line from a PSR point of view.

A significant update has now dropped regarding Sheffield United’s potential search for a new manager, with Ruben Selles feeling the heat.

Selles under huge pressure at Sheffield United

The Blades have made a disastrous start to the 2025/26 season, sitting bottom of the Championship and failing to pick up a single point in their opening four matches.

For that reason, the pressure is also mounting on manager Selles at United, following his arrival in place of Chris Wilder this summer, and pundit Jobi McAnuff has said there are “no excuses” for him not to improve moving forward.

“It’s been a mess of a summer – starting with the sacking of Chris Wilder. From what I’ve seen I’ve not been impressed with Ruben Selles in the way he’s set the team up – he’s not getting the best out of the group yet.

“He maybe wasn’t given the tools he needed to put a team together that can go and get results which gives him a little bit of an out but he should be doing better with the squad he has at his disposal.”But he certainly has no excuses with what he’s brought in now.”

Understandably, some names are already being mentioned as possible replacements for Selles, should he be relieved of his duties at Bramall Lane, and a key update has emerged regarding one rumoured target.

Danny Rohl to Sheffield United update

Writing on X on Sunday, BBC Sheffield’s Rob Staton claimed that Danny Rohl won’t be Sheffield United’s next manager, due to there being too much controversy surrounding it, given his past with rivals Sheffield Wednesday.

In truth, it is hard to see Rohl becoming Blades boss, given the reaction it would cause among Wednesday supporters, even though it is something that Blades fans would likely find amusing.

The 4-2-3-1-playing German is a highly-rated young manager – one who steered the Owls impressively away from safety in 2023/24, with Chris Waddle one of many left impressed by the job he did at Hillsborough.

Hopefully, a new manager isn’t needed at all for United, with Selles masterminding a revival after the international break, but it’s fair to say that the current feeling at the club isn’t too positive, with huge improvements needed, and fast.

Nottingham Forest fans must be having sleepless nights over the long-term future of Morgan Gibbs-White.

It looked nailed on that the 25-year-old was going to be the next through the exit door at the City Ground after Anthony Elanga, as Tottenham Hotspur smugly activated his release clause, yet this move looks to be fraught with controversy now, with the Tricky Trees even threatening legal action over Spurs’ cloak-and-dagger approach.

Whatever does occur between now and the entertaining transfer window closing involving Gibbs-White, Forest know they will need to press on with more incoming signings joining Nuno Espirito Santo’s group, with an ambitious midfield move now reportedly in the pipeline.

Nottingham Forest prepare move for £50m battler

Talk about fresh, new signings entering the fray has taken a backseat somewhat due to the drama of Elanga leaving and Gibbs-White nearly following suit.

Transfer Focus

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

However, there have been some notable links here and there, with Ben Doak allegedly on the Forest radar for around the £25m mark as the Scotsman contemplates a move away from Liverpool.

Another standout rumour comes in the form of ex-Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz who could make a return to the Premier League with Forest.

talkSPORT are reporting that Nuno’s men are ‘exploring’ a move for the former £50m Juventus buy, as Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis fancies the idea of bringing the top-flight-experienced Brazilian back to the Midlands.

It is stated that his £100k-per-week wage could be a potential stumbling block, but this might well be a standout signing Forest need to pursue in order to potentially convince Gibbs-White to remain put over favouring Champions League opportunities elsewhere, with the pair perhaps striking up an exciting midfield partnership very soon.

Why Gibbs-White could love playing with Luiz

Before flopping in Turin, starting just three Serie A games last term, Luiz was a dependable performer week in week out for Unai Emery’s Villans, with a sumptuous effort such as this one against AFC Bournemouth in his back pocket.

Not just an energetic battler in the middle of the park, Luiz has proven himself to be more than capable of chipping in with a goal and an assist in the final third.

Indeed, he collected a sizeable haul of 22 goals and 24 assists for Villa, with Gibbs-White coincidentally on the exact same tally at this point in time for Forest as another livewire in the centre of the pitch.

Games played

175

154

Goals scored

20

18

Assists

18

27

Passes completed

7,744 (87%)

4,106 (78%)

Dribbles completed

202 (66%)

298 (48%)

Duels won

775

591

Tackles won

285

123

Looking at the table above, it’s clear there are differences between the duo, however, that would help them form a healthy working relationship, with Luiz more than content sitting deeper in the pitch when viewing his high number of 775 duels being won across his Premier League career to date, alongside his 285 tackles.

On the contrary, Gibbs-White excels when bombing forward, with Luiz’s addition to the group gifting Forest more stability in the middle, alongside an equally combative Elliot Anderson, to allow for the ex-Wolverhampton Wanderers attacker to express himself even more.

During his final season at Villa Park, Luiz averaged a mightily impressive 5.3 ball recoveries in league action to be that tireless presence for his side, with football analyst Statman Dave even going out of his way to label the Brazilian as an “engine” for his relentless drive.

Away from competently completing his dirty work, Luiz would also be an addition that would stand out to the wantaway Englishman. Forest clearly need to showcase their ambition to Gibbs-White and the Brazilian’s pedigree in European competitions, as seen in the six Champions League appearances, would potentially be the type of signing to prove that.

Rather than deserting Forest, therefore, Gibbs-White might well believe Europe’s grandest stage can come to the City Ground shortly if Luiz’s expertise is added to the mix.

With new pictures coming out of Forest also showing Gibbs-White returning to training, it might not be a foregone conclusion anymore that the 25-year-old is on the move, especially if the “world-class” Luiz, as he was once labelled by ex-Villa teammate John McGinn, heads to Nottingham.

Dream Elanga replacement: Nottingham Forest in contact to sign £25m "menace"

Nottingham Forest now need to replace Elanga after his move to Newcastle

ByJoe Nuttall Jul 15, 2025

Liverpool’s 2024/25 campaign was one of undisputed success, but there are some within Arne Slot’s squad who will have been left feeling pensive in spite of the club’s incredible Premier League triumph.

Harvey Elliott, for one, adores Liverpool and has no doubt envisaged a career-long affinity with the Anfield side, dominating with his creative flair and ingenuity. However, starting berths were few and far between after Jurgen Klopp left, and the recent club-record acquisition of Florian Wirtz would see the 21-year-old play still less.

That’s why he’s expected to leave this summer, with Brighton & Hove Albion among the interested parties, prepared to pay £40m for the talented playmaker.

But Elliott isn’t the only one. Jarell Quansah has been another of the Merseysiders’ most exciting prospects after emerging in 2023/24 and earning praise for his “absolute monster” season from talent scout Jacek Kulig.

However, Slot wasn’t so enamoured as his predecessor, and after subbing the young centre-back off against Ipswich Town last August, the first game of a new era, Quansah never looked the same.

Thus, a deal worth £30m plus add-ons has been agreed with Bayer Leverkusen for the transfer of the Three Lions star, who has been called up to the national camp, if not actually fielded yet.

So much potential; it’s a shame. However, FSG aren’t messing about this summer, and have already found their dream replacement in Marc Guehi.

Why Liverpool want Marc Guehi

Guehi is one of the most exciting defenders in English football, having only got better under Oliver Glasner’s Eagles wing, already established at Crystal Palace after leaving Chelsea for £18m in 2021.

The 24-year-old is the real deal, all right, and played an instrumental part in Palace’s stunning FA Cup triumph in May, beating Manchester City in the final.

It’s been reported that Liverpool are close to agreeing personal terms for the England international, who is entering the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park.

However, Guehi wants assurances over his playing time; with Ibrahima Konate believed to have rejected Liverpool’s latest contract proposal, maybe he’ll get his wish.

Though Guehi is “among the best centre-backs”, as claimed by one data analyst, Liverpool are keeping their options open. Indeed, there’s another on the outfit’s shortlist who might be an even bigger talent.

Liverpool eyeing Guehi alternative

As per The Athletic, Liverpool have an admiration for Nottingham Forest defender Murillo, though they have concerns over the Tricky Trees’ £80m valuation.

Transfer Focus

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

Murillo, 22, has emerged as one of the Premier League’s biggest breakout stars and is also coveted by Chelsea. Though it’s absolutely certain that Liverpool would not be forking out £80m for the Brazilian, if the young talent pushes for an exit, a deal may yet be struck.

After joining Forest from Brazilian side Corinthians for £15m in August 2023, Murillo signed a new long-term deal in January 2025, extending his deal to the end of the 2028/29 season.

Why Liverpool want Murillo

Let’s be clear: the chances of Liverpool signing Murillo are low, but it is not out of the question. The hulking centre-half is one of the most ferocious defenders in the business, praised as a “monster” by teammate Anthony Elanga and as “one of the best defenders in the Premier League” by certain experts on Brazilian football.

Over the past two years, Murillo has played 68 times in the Premier League, instrumental in reinforcing Nottingham Forest as a Premier League outfit and then lifting them into the top half of the division, securing a place in European competition through their efforts last season.

He’s also a bit Joel Matip-esque, capable of taking the ball and ploughing forwards in a way which is elusive to most backliners. To be honest, though, scant few defenders would even attempt the Brazilian’s trademark forays, sure to end in a wonder goal at some stage.

Guehi likes to carry the ball upfield too, as you will see through the statistical analysis coming up in a moment, but Murillo simply does it better.

Indeed, both players enjoyed stunning seasons in their own right, but Murillo perhaps edges his positional peer after demonstrating a blooming roundedness that, with a bit more work, could see him become a superstar in Slot’s system.

Matches (starts)

36 (36)

34 (34)

Goals

2

3

Assists

0

2

Clean sheets

11

11

Touches*

55.4

64.9

Pass completion

80%

84%

Key passes*

0.4

0.5

Ball recoveries*

3.9

4.3

Dribbles*

0.8

0.4

Tackles + interceptions*

2.5

2.6

Clearances*

6.7

4.6

Duels (won)*

3.6 (60%)

4.9 (59%)

In fairness, facing Murillo and Guehi off against each other is akin to splitting hairs: both have proven their quality in the Premier League, and both have demonstrated a technical aptitude that would allow them to dovetail into the Anfield side.

It’s worth noting that Murillo has played in a system which precludes ball-playing emphasis. Nuno Espirito Santo has fashioned something special at the City Ground, qualifying for the Conference League with a seventh-place Premier League finish, and he did so without the ball.

Forest averaged 41.2% of possession in 2024/25, as per FBref, in front of only Everton and Ipswich Town for that metric. This, basically, shines a positive light on Murillo’s creativity, still finding cause to play progressive passes with consistency in spite of the limited ball time. He’d fit Slot’s system like a glove.

He’s also marginally ahead of Guehi in terms of duel success, a further illustration of his defensive prowess. While Murillo would need some work to shape his skill set into the completeness of a Liverpool-tailored central defender, there’s no question that he’s an outstanding talent who has proven his elite credentials in the Premier League.

Moreover, his creativity and athleticism prove the conclusive factors in outstripping another wonderful player in Guehi – and he’s two years his junior at that.

Slot's answer to Mane: Liverpool chasing "monster" £70m Premier League star

Liverpool have set their sights on another attacking star this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 24, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have enjoyed revelling in the triumph of lifting the Europa League and restoring their place among Europe’s elite next term, but Daniel Levy’s decision to fire Ange Postecoglou highlights the hunger to sustain an even loftier level of success over the coming years.

With Thomas Frank snatched from Brentford to lead from the dugout, Spurs are in a good position to challenge at the top end of the Premier League once more, though summer signings will be needed to inject fresh quality within a tired squad, whose success has papered over what was a most difficult year indeed.

Antoine Semenyo’s name has been bandied about, but there’s one man above all others who Tottenham’s new manager would like to welcome to the fold.

Spurs make contact for statement signing

Earlier this week, Sky Sports revealed that Tottenham have been growing in confidence that they could sign Bryan Mbeumo this summer after initial discussions, having made contact with Brentford, despite the player’s preference to join Man United.

This is because the Londoners have appointed Frank, who has led Mbeumo to such impressive individual heights over the past couple of years.

And now, as per transfer insider Graeme Bailey, the Lilywhites believe that Champions League football and the chance for the 25-year-old to stay in London could play into their favour.

Mbeumo won’t come cheap after his exceptional season, with the Bees looking to bank around £60m for the right-sided forward.

What Bryan Mbeumo would bring to Spurs

Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak and Erling Haaland. Perhaps the Premier League’s three finest goalscorers. They were the only players to outscore Mbeumo last season, with Ipswich Town writer Alex Osborn hailing him as “one of the best wingers in the league.”

1.

Mohamed Salah

38

29

2.

Alexander Isak

34

23

3.

Erling Haaland

31

22

4.

Chris Wood

36

20

5.

Bryan Mbeumo

38

20

Not only has Mbeumo dazzled in front of goal, but he’s performed well across underlying areas. As per Sofascore, the Cameroon international averaged 1.8 key passes, 1.4 dribbles, and 4.7 successful duels last term, underscoring a roundedness that most goalscorers don’t boast.

His prolific style surely makes him a better pick than Semenyo, who is a fantastic player but would cost Tottenham in excess of £50m and only scored 11 goals in the Premier League last year, also racking up six assists across his 37 appearances.

Make no mistake, Semenyo is a talented winger who would have a big effect on reorienting Tottenham’s domestic form and fluency, but can he compete with Mbeumo, who is objectively one of the classiest stars in front of goal?

The Bournemouth man ranked among the top 5% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the English top flight last year for shots taken, as per FBref, but only among the top 27% for goals scored per 90, with his efforts leading the data-driven site to draw up Mbeumo as one of his most comparable players.

If that is the case (and there are similarities: both players are physical and dynamic and potent across different positions), then surely the best track to go down would be to sign the more reliable and menacing player in front of goal.

Therefore, Mbeumo is surely the better pick to go for, especially when considering the kind of money that Bournemouth are looking to part with Semenyo.

Their next Werner: Spurs in battle to sign "special" £25m man for Frank

Spurs would be making a massive mistake signing this player.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 13, 2025

Chelsea’s capture of Liam Delap was Enzo Maresca’s first signing of the 2025 summer transfer window.

It will likely be the first of many as the Italian looks to sign high-profile stars that will improve his squad ahead of next season.

With Champions League football to look forward to for the first time since the 2022/23 season, Maresca is going to spend in order to be fully prepared for the group stages.

As such, the club have been linked with numerous attacking players in recent weeks. Hugo Ekitike is someone that the manager is keen on bringing to Stamford Bridge.

Date

Opponent

Venue

Monday, June 16

Los Angeles

Mercedes-Benz stadium

Friday, June 20

Flamengo

Lincoln Financial Field

Tuesday, June 24

Esperance

Lincoln Financial Field

Via Chelseafc.com

He could cost around £84m, however, which may prove to be a stumbling block. Samu Aghehowa is another striker on Maresca’s list of targets, but he could cost roughly the same as Ekitike if Chelsea are serious about bringing him to London.

Wide options are also being targeted and Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens is a talent that the Blues are desperate to have before the start of next season.

How much would the German side demand for the Englishman to let him move to the Premier League?

The latest on Chelsea's pursuit of Jamie Gittens

Gittens has been linked with a move to Chelsea over the previous few weeks, and it appears the club are serious about signing him.

According to Ben Jacobs on Sunday, the Blues have had a bid rejected. He said on social media: “Understand Dortmund want around £42m for Jamie Gittens. Chelsea’s opening bid of £30m has been turned down but positive talks continue. Chelsea happy to wait until after the June 10 deadline if no breakthrough ahead of the Club World Cup.”

Less than a year ago, Gittens was hailed as the future of Dortmund and was looking to follow in the footsteps of Jadon Sancho and Jude Bellingham.

Since Nico Kovac took over as coach, however, the youngster has struggled to fit into his system, and it now appears they are looking to cash in on the winger.

Since making his debut for the club in the 2021/22 season, the 20-year-old has amassed over 100 competitive appearances.

A total of 31 goal contributions – 17 goals and 14 assists – have been registered in that period, establishing him as one of the most promising young wingers on the continent.

While landing a player of Gittens’ quality this summer, do the club need another wide option?

Maresca can already count on the likes of Pedro Neto, Noni Madueke, Tyrique George and Mykhaylo Mudryk (when he returns from his suspension) to play on either wing.

Add in the fact that they have signed Sporting CP winger Geovany Quenda, it is evident that this area is rather stacked with players.

Instead of spending another £40m-£50m on someone like Gittens, no matter how talented he is, perhaps directing these funds to other areas of the squad should be deemed a bigger priority.

A new goalkeeper, for example.

Chelsea preparing to make move for new goalkeeper

It is no secret that the Blues have struggled to find a consistent number one goalkeeper in recent years.

Kepa Arrizabalaga, Edouard Mendy and Robert Sanchez have all held the position over the previous few years, but none truly convinced the supporters, with Kepa and Sanchez notably-error prone.

As such, signing a new ‘keeper this summer should be what Maresca is focusing on.

Well, according to Sky Sports, the Blues have told AC Milan that they are willing to pay a transfer fee in the region of €15m (£12.6m) to secure the services of Mike Maignan.

It’s a fee that could get them close to completing a move with journalist Graeme Bailey reporting on the saga that the Blues now expect to sign the Frenchman in time for the Club World Cup.

The Milan number one has been with the club since the summer of 2021, making a total of 163 appearances for the Serie A side, notably impressing at club level and on the international stage, most recently against German in the Nations League.

If Maresca wishes to improve his options between the sticks, then signing the 29-year-old is clearly a must.

Why Mike Maignan would be a better signing than Jamie Gittens

The Blues have a plethora of wingers available to make an impression under Maresca but their goalkeeping department leaves plenty to be desired.

Last year, Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen were both used by Maresca. The Spaniard made 34 appearances, while Jorgensen played 23 times for the club.

Transfer Focus

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

Across his 34 games, the Spaniard kept just ten clean sheets, conceding 37 goals in the process. Jorgensen managed to keep only nine clean sheets while shipping 22 goals.

To summarise, the Blues need someone who could be the main choice under Maresca. A player that will win them points when the club aren’t playing well.

In that regard, Maignan is the ideal choice. He was hailed as “world-class” by writer Carlo Garganese in 2022 for a stunning performance against Inter Milan.

Across his 163 games for the Italian giants, Maignan has kept 59 clean sheets, working out as one every 2.7 games.

In the Italian top flight last season, the Frenchman made 2.7 saves per game – a 71% success rate – while also keeping 12 clean sheets, conceding 1.1 goals per game, was successful with 95% of his passes within his own half and averaged 46.5 touches per match.

When compared to his positional peers in Serie A, Maignan ranks in the top 10% for passes attempted per 90 (37.02), while also ranking in the top 7% for defensive actions outside his penalty area (1.86) per 90.

That last statistic is important, signifying that the 29-year-old plays quite far off his goal line in order to distribute the ball and stop opposition attacks.

Maignan is now the French number one and with Milan not in any European competition next season after an eighth-place finish in Serie A, joining Chelsea makes sense for all parties.

He will be able to establish himself as the number one ‘keeper at Stamford Bridge while playing in the Champions League once again.

Could they secure his services for a fee just north of £10m? It would be tough, but not impossible, that’s for sure. He could turn out to be a much better signing than Gittens should Maresca get a deal over the line.

Better than Delap: Chelsea step up move for £85m "monster in the making"

Chelsea are looking to improve their attacking options further

1 ByRoss Kilvington Jun 9, 2025

Ange Postecoglou enjoyed the most glorious vindication as he lifted the Europa League after leading his Tottenham Hotspur side to victory against Manchester United, making good on a promise that was scoffed at by detractors when made.

However, there’s no detracting from the fact that Spurs have flattered to deceive this season, 17th in the Premier League with one match left to play, having been battered by injuries and consequent struggles for any measure of fluency.

Things need to change next season, and Daniel Levy will certainly be wrestling over the manager’s seat, with Postecoglou’s future uncertain in spite of his success in ending the club’s interminable trophy drought.

However, by doing so, the Aussie tactician has salvaged something special from this difficult year, placing Tottenham in next year’s Champions League group stage. By doing so, it’s opened the door for exciting signings to strengthen the squad.

Spurs favourites to seal statement signing

As per Spanish sources, Tottenham are the favourites to sign RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons this summer after unlocking the door to Europe’s elite stage.

Leipzig failed to qualify for Europe this term and have thus informed Simons he will be allowed to leave, though they will demand €80m (£68m) for his release.

Liverpool had been in the running for the Dutchman but have moved to sign Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz instead, with the German side looking for a €150m (£126m) payment. However, the Lilywhites will feel that they can secure a signing every bit as impactful and for almost half the cost.

Why Spurs must sign Xavi Simons

Described as a “superstar” in the making by analyst Ben Mattinson, Simons left Paris Saint-Germain to make his name at Leipzig back in the summer of 2023, playing the coming campaign as a loanee before signing permanently in a €50m (£42m) deal.

Alternating between central attacking midfield and wider berths, he’s been an invariably prolific presence, posting 44 goal contributions from 76 matches in all competitions.

Described as a “game-changer” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Simons has the potency to make a stunning impression in Postecoglou’s Spurs squad, but he also has the strength and solidity to thrive in the wider lens of English football.

When looking at how he compares with Liverpool’s soon-to-be-signed superstar in the Bundesliga this year, you begin to see that Tottenham could bag themselves a winner here.

Matches (starts)

25 (25)

31 (25)

Goals

10

10

Assists

7

12

Shots (on target)*

2.0 (0.9)

2.3 (1.3)

Touches*

68.0

73.4

Pass completion

83%

82%

Big chances created

12

17

Key passes

2.0

1.8

Dribbles*

1.3

2.6

Ball recoveries*

5.1

3.6

Tackles + interceptions*

1.6

1.3

Duels won*

5.4

5.2

Honestly, there’s a case to be made that Simons has enjoyed the better Bundesliga campaign, marginally outperforming last year’s Player of the Season across many of the underlying metrics and proving he has what it takes to thrive in the Premier League, confident in the duel and precise with his passing.

This robust Netherlands star is exactly what Tottenham need, and though at £68m he’d prove their record signing, it would be money well spent for a team now with a unique opportunity to put the year’s issues in the past and turn toward a sustained period of success.

It would make quite the statement, retorting to Liverpool’s capture with their own version, one who could go punch-for-punch with the German in the Premier League.

Without question, Wirtz is one of the most exciting midfielders of his generation. Former Leverkusen striker Patrick Helmes has even said he’s “probably the best midfielder in the world.” However, his loyalties obviously lie with the Werkself.

If anything, Simons’ metrics simply highlight the calibre of player Postecoglou would be bringing into his ranks, ready to steer this Tottenham team toward an illustrious new era.

Spurs hit gold on "sensational" monster who's becoming their new Dembele

The impressive international could be a star for Spurs.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes May 24, 2025

Leeds United are now showing interest in signing a £21m striker who’s been likened to legendary centre-forward Filippo Inzaghi, according to a reporter.

Leeds set sights on new striker

Joel Piroe was the top scorer in the Championship last season, netting a total of 19 goals, however, it may be wise for Leeds to bring in a striker with more Premier League experience if they are to avoid an instant return to the second tier.

As such, a number of different strikers have been identified as potential targets ahead of the summer transfer window, with Jamie Vardy and Callum Wilson set to be available on free transfers upon leaving Leicester City and Newcastle United.

Leeds striker links

Current club

Potential cost

Jamie Vardy

Leicester City

£0

Callum Wilson

Newcastle United

£0

Troy Parrott

AZ Alkmaar

£21m

Semih Kilicsoy

Besiktas

Loan

Moves for Vardy and Wilson could make sense, having proven themselves over a number of years in the Premier League, but there may be some concerns over the fact that both strikers are now likely to be in the latter stages of their careers.

As such, there may be a temptation to take a gamble on a younger centre-forward in the summer, and reports in Europe, via The 72, claim that Leeds are interested in signing Lecce star Nikola Krstovic.

A deal for Krstovic is unlikely to break the bank, with the Italian club willing to listen to offers of at least €25m (£21m), which could be a bargain, given the level of some of his performances in the Serie A last season…

Inzaghi-esque Krstovic impressing in Italy

Indeed, the Montenegro international performed very well in the Serie A throughout the 2024-25 campaign, picking up 11 goals and five assists in 37 outings, while he has also received praise from former manager Roberto D’Aversa in the past.

D’Aversa said: “Every ball in the box seems to magnetically find him. His style, his hunger for goals, it all reminds me of the great Pippo Inzaghi.”

“The club’s decision to bring him to Lecce during the transfer window has been vindicated. He’s not just a goal-scorer; he’s integral to our build-up play and brings a physical presence up front.”

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D’Aversa also lauded the 25-year-old for his “impressive” goal record during his time in Slovakia, and the way in which he has adapted to life in the Serie A suggests he could now be ready to make a move to the Premier League in the near future.

As such, while signing Wilson or Vardy on a free transfer would be more of a low-risk move for Leeds, it may be worth taking a gamble on Krstovic, who could be capable of leading the line for Daniel Farke’s side for many years to come.

Chelsea chiefs are expected to undergo another hectic summer window of incomings and outgoings, with many players set to be put on the transfer list by BlueCo and face uncertain futures.

Players expected to leave Chelsea this summer

It is perhaps a given that, barring any U-turns from Enzo Maresca, a plethora of loaned-out senior players in the form of Kepa Arrizabalaga, Alfie Gilchrist, Renato Veiga, Armando Broja, Raheem Sterling, David Datro Fofana, Carney Chukwuemeka, Ben Chilwell and Axel Disasi are all but set to quit Stamford Bridge.

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BlueCo’s mountainous task ahead of June 1 is beginning to find new homes for all the surplus to requirement, out-of-favour members of Chelsea’s full to the brim squad list.

3. Man City

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4. Newcastle

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5. Chelsea

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6. Aston Villa

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7. Nottingham Forest

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As things stand, they’re all set to return to Chelsea once their temporary spells elsewhere conclude, with the likes of Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell both commanding huge salaries and proving a drain on the club’s wage bill.

Chelsea will be especially keen to find new homes for the England international duo, and the same can be said for summer flop Joao Felix.

The Portuguese returned to west London in 2024 for around £45 million, with Cobham academy graduate Conor Gallagher heading the other way to Atlético Madrid in a separate deal.

However, since that ‘sort of’ swap deal was agreed, both players’ fortunes have contrasted significantly. While Gallagher has gone on to become a mainstay under Diego Simeone, making 46 appearances in all competitions and racking up nine goal contributions, Maresca has already deemed Felix an unwanted man just one season into his stay.

Felix was shipped off on loan to AC Milan in January, failing to impress at the San Siro, with the Rossoneri deciding long ago that they’re not interested in keeping the 24-year-old beyond this season (Fabrizio Romano).

Benfica working to re-sign Joao Felix from Chelsea

It seems pretty inevitable that Chelsea will attempt to rid themselves of Felix’s £130,000-per-week wages once he returns to Cobham.

This is echoed by Spanish news outlet Estadio Deportivo, and their journalist Manuel Pedrero, who provides an update on Felix’s precarious situation.

He writes that Felix is aware he’ll need to pack his bags and quit Chelsea this summer, and he could have a golden chance to return to his former club. Benfica are said to be working on bringing the attacking midfielder back home, with the Portuguese heavyweights viewed as his most credible next destination as things stand.

In an alternate universe, and one where Aston Villa had the financial capabilities to match his demands, Felix would be working under Unai Emery right now. The ex-Arsenal boss once confirmed that he couldn’t quite get him over the line at Villa Park before Chelsea swooped in, but does rate the forward very highly.

“He’s a special player and it was not totally impossible for us (to sign him), but he wanted to play for a team in the Champions League,” Emery said last year.

“We are realistic about how we can improve and how we can add players to improve our squad. He has a high salary and Chelsea paid a lot of money for that.

“I like him, but we were never really in the running for him. He can assist, score goals, drop deep to build up and he can play in the small spaces and drive into the box. He’s special.”

Liverpool have made a shock offer for a £400k-a-week star who is now keen to play in Europe next season, according to Sky Sports journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.

Reds' summer transfer plans taking shape

After two quiet transfer windows since replacing Jürgen Klopp in the dugout, Arne Slot will be tasked with strengthening his squad in a number of key areas this summer, and FSG are prepared to back their manager with significant financial backing.

A new striker could be required, with Darwin Nunez’s future in doubt, and the aforementioned report names Napoli’s Victor Osimhen as a potential option, alongside RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and prolific Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres.

With Trent Alexander-Arnold recently confirming his decision to leave his boyhood club this summer, the Reds have also ramped up their pursuit of a new right-back, and David Ornstein believes Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong is keen on a move to Anfield.

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Having perhaps overrelied on Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister, there have also been suggestions that Slot could look to bring in a new midfielder this summer, and there is serious interest in Stuttgart maestro Angelo Stiller.

However, a surprise move for a Premier League attacking midfielder could also be on the cards, according to Di Marzio, with the Sky Sports journalist recently stating Liverpool have now made a shock offer for Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne.

De Bruyne is set to leave Man City on a free transfer this summer, with Pep Guardiola’s side taking the decision not to extend his contract, but the Belgian wants to remain in Europe, despite widespread links to the MLS.

Napoli are making a concrete attempt to sign the 33-year-old, so there could also be competition for his signature from some of Europe’s top clubs.

"World-class" De Bruyne likened to Gerrard

In truth, the Man City legend moving to Anfield doesn’t seem particularly realistic, given that he was in direct competition with the Reds for a number of years, during which time he impressed Klopp, who described the maestro as “world-class”.

Wayne Rooney has also likened the Belgium international to Steven Gerrard in the past, saying: “De Bruyne reminds me a bit of Steven Gerrard. He drifts out to that right-hand side and plays some brilliant balls whipped in, like Stevie used to. What I like most is he takes chances, he takes risks, he doesn’t go for the easy ball – he plays the hard pass.”

The £400k-a-week star is evidently in the twilight years of his career, given City’s willingness to sanction a departure, but he has still impressed in the Premier League at times this season, while also catching the eye in the FA Cup.

Competition

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FA Cup

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As such, De Bruyne could still be a difference-maker for a top club, but a move to Anfield would be extremely controversial.