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West Ham United arguably face one of the most important games in the club’s history on Thursday evening, as David Moyes’ side take on Bundesliga outfit Eintracht Frankfurt in a pivotal, Europa League semi-final showdown.

The Hammers head into that second leg in Germany trailing their opponents on aggregate, having succumbed to a 2-1 defeat on home soil last week, ensuring they have plenty to do to reach the dangling carrot that is the showpiece.

The east Londoners return to action having suffered another 2-1 loss at the hands of Mikel Arteta’s, top-four chasing Arsenal side on Sunday, albeit with that clash having seen Moyes shuffle his pack in preparation for this upcoming crunch meeting.

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One man who was dropped to the bench at the London Stadium at the weekend was Tomas Soucek, although following that well-earned rest, the Czech international should surely be thrust back into the action by his manager.

Although club captain Mark Noble far from discredited himself in midfield on what was a rare league start – the 34-year-old recording an impressive 7.1 match rating according to SofaScore – the Englishman seemingly lacks the unique attributes that make his towering teammate such a force of nature in the centre of the park.

Dubbed “like the terminator” by pundit Jamie Redknapp for his brutal and committed approach, the 6 foot 4 giant is a commanding presence alongside talisman Declan Rice, with the duo having formed a simply telepathic relationship since the 27-year-old’s arrival back in January 2020.

Initially plucked on a loan deal – before being snapped permanently for £15m – the £47k-per-week brute has been a vital part of the club’s rise in recent seasons, proving his worth in both boxes with his aerial presence and never-say-die attitude.

Having bagged ten Premier League goals in his first full campaign in English football last term, the £40.5m-rated gem has added a further five top-flight goals this season, while also boasting an outstanding defensive record to boot.

The former Slavia Prague man ranks fifth in the league for aerial duels won (125), while he’s also averaged 1.5 interceptions, 1.9 tackles and 2.7 clearances per game, showcasing his willingness to do the dirty work in front of the back four.

No slouch at the other end of the pitch, however, he also ranks in the top 9% among players in his position in Europe’s top five leagues for touches in the attacking penalty area, proving himself a real weapon in the final third.

In a game of such great importance, Moyes needs a man who is not afraid to put his body on the line for the cause, but can also offer a real threat in attack when needed, particularly at set-pieces.

The former Everton boss simply must throw Soucek back into the fray; he could well terrify Frankfurt.

IN other news, Forget Rice: Moyes now set for West Ham disaster on “remarkable” £125k-p/w giant

There has been mounting speculation on the future of Brighton and Hove Albion loanee Matt Clarke at West Bromwich Albion, and there has now been an update on the situation.

What’s the latest?

According to West Brom reporter Steve Madeley (via The Athletic), the 25-year-old centre-back “would be keen” to stay at The Hawthorns this summer.

Madeley wrote:

“Clarke would be keen on a permanent move to The Hawthorns and there are reasons for which a deal would appeal to West Brom as it is likely that any deal would include a low up-front fee and would be weighted towards performance-related add-ons and sell-on clauses.”

Bruce will be buzzing

There is no doubt that Steve Bruce would be buzzing at the idea of the defender wanting to stay at the club after his comments about Clarke in an interview a few weeks ago.

Bruce told Express and Star:

“He has been, arguably, since I’ve walked through the door – he’s been our best player so I’m really, really, happy for him.

“All those conversations – it’s all about the future. What is going to happen in the future is the big thing and we’ll have those talks.”

The Baggies centre-back has featured 32 times in the Championship this season, with his effectiveness and influence in the backline a clear indicator as to why Bruce holds him in such high regard.

Clarke has made 1.9 interceptions, 3.2 clearances and 1.5 tackles on average per game, kept ten clean sheets, won the majority of his duels combined (63%) and has been successful in the majority of his dribbles (63%), proving to be a consistent force for West Brom throughout the season.

West Brom have now squandered their chances of picking up a playoff spot in the Championship this season, but will now need to focus on rebuilding and reflecting on the issues that have presented themselves this season to improve and hit the ground running to earn a place back in the Premier League next season.

Permanently signing Clarke could be a great step in their pursuit to return to top-flight football as he has proven he has what it takes to offer reliability and good fitness in the Championship for them, something many players in the team have struggled with throughout the current campaign.

AND in other news: In talks: WBA must brutally axe “powerful” £720k-rated gem after “important” update

Manchester United are now advancing in talks to sign AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, with it being revealed that a formal offer is in the works…

With Casemiro’s contract due to expire at the end of the season, and Kobbie Mainoo’s future still in doubt, having already held talks over a January exit, it is little wonder Ruben Amorim is keen to bring in a new central midfielder, and a Premier League player recently joined the shortlist.

With Carlos Baleba Man United’s dream target and an approach recently being made for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, there is no shortage of exciting options to choose from, although it was recently revealed Amorim wants to bring in two midfielders before next season.

Recruiting from the Premier League in the summer has served United well so far this season, with the likes of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha becoming key players, but a move for a slightly more left-field central midfielder is now gaining traction.

Man Utd advancing in talks to sign Kees Smit

That is according to a report from Spain, which states Man United are progressing in talks with AZ Alkmaar over a deal for Smit, with an opening bid in the works, and the deal could be finalised when Amorim’s side formalize their ‘definitive’ offer.

The 19-year-old has caught the eye due to his passing and ability in transition, and there is a belief he would be able to adapt to life in the Premier League, despite still being relatively inexperienced.

The midfielder is valued at just €25m (£22m), meaning a deal wouldn’t break the bank, and there could be money left over to pursue the likes of Baleba or Anderson, with Alkmaar also willing to sanction a departure.

Lauded as a “duel monster” by scout Ben Mattinson, the teenager has already established himself as a key player for Alkmaar, amassing two goals and four assists in all competitions this season, while his performances last term indicate he could be the future of the Netherlands national side.

There may be some concern over the fact the Dutchman is yet to prove himself outside his home country, but a deal would be relatively inexpensive at just £22m, so it would certainly be a low-risk move.

Smit is extremely comfortable in possession of the ball, placing in the 90th percentile for both successful take-ons and progressive carries per 90 over the past year, and it would be fantastic if Man United were able to beat the likes of Liverpool and Barcelona to his signature.

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After watching on as he limped off in Saturday’s 3-0 defeat against Coventry, Birmingham City boss Chris Davies has confirmed the extent of Ethan Laird’s injury.

David admits "frustration" after Sheffield Wednesday draw

It’s not been a good week for Birmingham, who were pushed aside by Frank Lampard’s Coventry side at the weekend and then forced to rescue a point in the 99th-minute against Sheffield Wednesday last night. The Blues were expected to defeat the Owls, whose struggles away from the pitch have created an impossible scenario for the players on it, but found themselves frustrated once again.

Davies couldn’t hide his frustration in his post-match reaction, but did admit that there is some “relief” among the Birmingham squad after they salvaged a late point.

He told reporters: “We stabilised at half time and regrouped, we came out well again and on the front foot, having moments and chances. We couldn’t take them and then they go in front from a set piece, out of nothing, and a goal.

“What it leads to is a very difficult situation, at home, 2-1 down in a game that we really feel we should be winning. That’s a test of character, that’s a test of mental strength, and the players did it. It could be one of the biggest points of our season, and one of the biggest moments of our season.

“From our point of view there’s very mixed feelings in the dressing room. There’s a sense of relief, or happiness that we got the goal, but there’s an underlying frustration because we know that we let that game turn into a game that was possibly going to get away from us.”

The manager also had more bad news to share regarding the extent of Laird’s injury, who has added to the Blues’ woes.

Birmingham games that Ethan Laird will now miss

Revealing the extent of Laird’s injury, Davies said: “Ethan is unfortunately an injury that will take him some time, a few months, which is a real blow. A real blow to him and us. He’s had it assessed and looked at, and unfortunately it was as bad as we feared it would be. We won’t see him for a few months.”

Based on the manager’s verdict, Laird is likely to miss at least three months of action and will be absent for a number of games as a result. The right-back had featured in all seven of his side’s Championship games prior to his injury – starting four times – but could now be forced to sit out for the next 16 in a monumental blow.

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That run could include games against the likes of Southampton, Sheffield United and will most certainly include Wrexham this weekend. Sat one point adrift of the playoff places, it’s an injury blow that Birmingham could do without.

Manchester United and INEOS are now seriously considering sacking Ruben Amorim and replacing him with a “world-class” manager, it has been revealed.

Amorim under pressure after Manchester derby defeat

Amorim is under increasing pressure after losing 3-0 against Manchester City on Sunday, with David Beckham one of many former players to have called out the players for their performance.

Beckham said: “It was a very hard watch yesterday, and like I said, as a United fan, I’m fed up with watching these games and seeing what we’re seeing as fans.”

As a result of the most recent defeat, Amorim now has the worst win percentage of any United manager since World War 2 to have taken charge of 25 or more games.

Consequently, it is difficult to envisage the Portuguese manager remaining in the role if results don’t improve, and INEOS have now set their sights on a replacement.

That is according to a report from Spain, which states Man United are now seriously considering sacking Amorim, in light of the very poor start to the campaign, and a former manager is being lined up as a potential replacement.

Jose Mourinho is being strongly considered, with the ex-United boss in a prime position to return, following his departure from Fenerbahce, given his experience and knowledge of the Premier League.

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There is a belief that Mourinho’s strong character could be exactly what the Red Devils need to get back on track, having won the Europa League and League Cup during his previous stint at Old Trafford.

Mourinho should not be considered by INEOS

It is clear to see why INEOS are losing patience with Amorim, given that the 40-year-old has made it clear he is uncompromising on his three-at-the-back system, which clearly isn’t working, saying: “When I want to change my philosophy, I will change. If not, you have to change the man.”

That said, a Mourinho return should not be considered by the Man United hierarchy, given that the 62-year-old was recently sacked by Fenerbahce, after being unable to win a trophy with the Turkish club.

The former United boss is clearly a top coach, with Brendan Rodgers once saying: “He’s a world-class manager who was brilliant for me as a young coach. The professionalism, the way he dedicated his life to football and his attention to detail is incredible.”

However, the legendary manager was unsuccessful during his most recent stint in the Premier League, failing to win a trophy with Tottenham Hotspur, and having already been dismissed by United back in 2018, bringing Mourinho back to Old Trafford could be a step backwards.

Ipswich Town are now looking to sign a 37-cap England international, who could be a key player in Kieran McKenna’s promotion push, it has been revealed.

Ipswich looking to make new signing after slow start

After being relegated from the Premier League last season, Ipswich were expected to push for an immediate return to the top flight, but it would be fair to say they have made a slow start to the Championship campaign.

The Tractor Boys sit 20th in the standings, having failed to win any of their opening four matches, despite spending heavily in the summer, with Sindre Walle Egeli and Kasey McAteer among their most expensive new signings.

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Despite the poor start, there is still plenty of time for McKenna’s side to turn things around, and Preston North End manager Paul Heckingbottom believes they will be in the mix for promotion: “They recruited Championship ready players in League One, recruited only one or two more and then went up; didn’t go away from their ethos when they recruited again in the Premier League, and there were moments where we thought they were going to stay up. So, there’s not too much difference there.”

“I think that will hold them in good stead.”

However, according to a report from Spain, Ipswich have already set their sights on another new signing to boost their promotion chances, having joined the race for Dele Alli, who recently became a free agent after leaving Serie A side Como.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have also been credited with an interest in Alli, who has struggled to turn his career around since leaving Tottenham Hotspur, making just one appearance during his time with Como.

The attacking midfielder’s availability without a transfer fee makes him an appealing option, however, with a move to Portman Road offering the 29-year-old the chance to be a key player for a promotion-chasing Championship side.

Alli would be risky signing for Ipswich

At his peak, the former Tottenham star was a force to be reckoned with, scoring 51 Premier League goals during his time in north London, while also cementing himself as an England regular, picking up 37 caps.

Season

PL appearances

Goal contributions

2015-16

33

18

2016-17

37

27

2017-18

36

19

However, due to well-documented personal problems, the Milton Keynes-born midfielder has since struggled to rediscover his best form, having failed to make an impact at Everton, Besiktas or Como.

As such, it would be a gamble for Ipswich to take a chance on the former England regular, especially considering he has also struggled on the injury front, missing a whopping 45 games due to a muscle tear across spells with Everton and Besiktas.

Of course, if Alli were able to get back to his best, he would be a fantastic signing for Ipswich, but it has been a long time since the attacking midfielder was a Premier League star.

Leeds United have now approached a La Liga club over a deal to sign a 24-year-old defender alongside their now confirmed move for Jaka Bijol, according to a new report.

Leeds announce Jaka Bijol as second summer signing

The Whites earmarked Bijol as one of their top transfer targets this summer, and on Saturday it was confirmed that they have got their man. Fabrizio Romano reported that Bijol had signed his contract and the deal was given his trademark “here we go”, with the club since confirming a five-year deal until 2030.

It is claimed that the newly promoted side are going to pay Italian outfit Udinese £19 million to sign Bijol, although the announcement reports an “undisclosed” fee. The 26-year-old played 34 times in Serie A last season, which is the most he’s played in a single campaign in Serie A since joining the club back in 2022.

He has become Leeds’ second signing of the summer, as they made their first addition last week, bringing Lukas Nmecha in on a free transfer from Wolfsburg.

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Bijol will join the likes of Joe Rodon, Maximilian Wober, Pascal Struijk and Ethan Ampadu as the Whites’ recognised centre-back options. But that list could soon be extended, as the Championship title winners are now looking to bring in another new defender.

Leeds approach Real Betis over Natan signing

According to ABC (23rd June, Page 71), relayed by MOT Leeds News, Leeds have now asked Real Betis about the conditions of a deal to sign Natan this summer.

Natan joined the Spanish side on a loan deal last summer from Serie A winners Napoli. Real Betis had the option to make the deal a permanent switch, which they have triggered this summer. However, Leeds are now already working to find an agreement which could see Betis cash in on the 24 year-old immediately.

The Brazilian played 31 times in La Liga last season, helping the team keep four clean sheets while he was on the pitch, as well as averaging 1.1 tackles per game. Natan also played 15 times in the UEFA Conference League, as Betis made it all the way to the final before losing out to Chelsea.

Apps

31

Starts

23

Goals

1

Clean sheets

4

Passing accuracy per game

35.8 (89%)

Interceptions per game

0.9

Tackles per game

1.1

Balls recovered per game

2.4

Ground duels per game (won)

1.5 (62%)

Aerial duels per game (won)

2.2 (68%)

Natan’s potential arrival at Elland Road could see a complete overhaul to Leeds’ central defence for next season, as the Brazilian could be paired with Bijol right from the off – it feels hard to believe he would leave a starting role in La Liga for a spot on the bench.

Natan has never played in English football, but he would bring experience of playing at a high level with Betis and Napoli as well as European experience, which can surely only benefit the Whites in their quest for survival.

For some very young Sunderland supporters, next season could be the first time they’ve ever seen their side compete in the luxuries of the Premier League.

It has been nearly a decade since the Black Cats called the top-flight their footballing home, with the Wearside outfit even falling all the way down to League One at one disastrous stage after their relegation from the big time in 2017.

Now, however, after an unbelievable playoff final success at Wembley against Sheffield United, Regis Le Bris’ men are back on the map.

They won’t want to merely make up the numbers next season, though, and be known as relegation fodder, with a statement move on the table to bring back Jordan Henderson just one early indicator of how ambitious they are willing to be in the chaotic transfer market.

Sunderland's ongoing pursuit of Henderson

Henderson’s potential emotional return to Wearside is the talk of the town at the moment around the Stadium of Light as various rumours filter through about the current Ajax midfielder’s near future.

Football Insider have recently reported that a spectacular reunion deal could soon be on the cards, with the likes of journalist Ben Jacobs also weighing in by revealing on X that the newly promoted side are considering an approach.

Of course, this would be an ideal move for Sunderland as they try to consolidate themselves as a Premier League-ready outfit again, considering the former Liverpool captain has managed to amass 433 top-flight appearances across his esteemed playing days to date.

But, at 34 years of age, it would be unfair for Le Bris and Co. to expect Henderson to come in and not look a little rusty.

Therefore, whilst it would be a stunning coup to pull off with a Sunderland-born star dramatically returning home, landing this attacking menace could well be viewed as an even bigger accomplishment considering he’s still causing Premier League defenders havoc to this day.

One Sunderland return would be a bigger coup than Henderson

Amazingly, this other deal churned out by the rumour mill sees the Black Cats linked with another memorable ex-player.

Much like Henderson’s spell, Amad Diallo’s loan stint at the Stadium of Light was fleeting but hard to forget, with the Ivorian nearly firing Sunderland up to the Premier League during his solitary campaign under Tony Mowbray’s guidance.

He could finally return now – as per a report by African outlet 225 Foot earlier this week – with his expertise of the Premier League on the books of Manchester United making it very likely that he would add to his Black Cats tally of 14 goals and four assists if a statement reunion occurred.

Amad finally being able to nail down a starting spot at Old Trafford could make this deal an unrealistic one to get over the line. That said, a recent report from TEAMTalk did suggest that United could be tempted to part ways with their explosive winger if the price was right, amidst financial concerns at the Theatre of Dreams.

24/25

Man United

43

11

9

23/24

Man United

12

2

1

21/22

Sunderland

42

14

4

It’s clear from the table above why United would be so hesitant to part ways with their attacking “wizard” – as he’s been previously lauded by journalist James Copley – with Amad just fresh off his career best tally at the Red Devils of 20 goal contributions from 43 clashes, even as the ship keeps sinking in Manchester.

Yet, if Sunderland were to offer a tempting bid around Amad’s £40m Football Transfers valuation, the out-of-sorts giants could be more drawn to the idea of selling, with a top-drawer performer at the level then on the Black Cats’ roster.

The story of Henderson’s Sunderland return after so long away would make that a fantastic deal to sign off on, but whilst the 34-year-old’s best days in the challenging league are likely behind him, the tricky 22-year-old could get even better with time.

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As Rangers look to commence their summer business, the 49ers are now reportedly chasing a deal to sign an international defender for a bargain price in the coming months.

Rangers could rehire Steven Gerrard

Top of the 49ers’ list of priorities at Ibrox will undoubtedly be finding the next Rangers manager. With the Scottish Premiership season now over, the Gers will be desperate to put an end to any speculation and appoint what they hope to be a long-term appointment. A number of names on that front have already been mentioned too, but it’s Davide Ancelotti and Steven Gerrard who are seemingly the leading candidates.

What is quite the indication that Ancelotti is among the candidates is the fact that he hasn’t joined his father, Carlo Ancelotti, at the Brazil national team as he looks to get his own managerial career underway.

Meanwhile, Gerrard needs no introduction. The Liverpool legend ended Rangers’ long wait for another league title in 2021, but then jumped ship to join Premier League side Aston Villa. Since then, however, things have only gone downhill. Sacked by Villa, who have gone on to become a side battling for European football, Gerrard then joined Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq only to face the same fate that he suffered in the Midlands.

A free agent once more, Gerrard could now have the opportunity to head back to Ibrox and make up for leaving four years ago. Whether the Scottish giants are in the mood to offer a shot at redemption is the big question, however.

It’s an appointment that Rangers cannot get wrong after Philippe Clement, but one that they must conclude sooner rather than later. What the appointment of Gerrard would at least do is hand the Gers a potential advantage in the race to sign one of their summer targets.

Rangers chasing £1m George Bello deal

According to Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider, Rangers are now chasing a deal to sign George Bello from Austrian club LASK this summer. The USA international is reportedly valued at just £1m and represents the type of deal that the Gers could afford in the coming months.

What’s more, Bello is represented by the same agency as Gerrard, John Souttar and Danilo, which could hand the 49ers an unexpected opportunity to simplify any potential contract negotiations this summer.

The left-back would certainly be an interesting addition. Having initially come through the Atlanta academy, Bello decided to join Arminia Bielefeld in 2022 before struggling to adapt in Germany. But he didn’t give up his stint in Europe from there, opting to join LASK in 2023 and getting back to his best level ever since.

A new left-back would be no bad thing for Rangers, either, with Neraysho Kasanwirjo set to return to parent club Feyenoord this summer and Jefte in need of competition down that side.

Whilst appointing a new manager – be it Gerrard, Ancelotti or another name – will be Rangers’ priority in the coming weeks, players like Bello will be ones to keep an eye on this summer.

Newcastle United have now made contact over the signing of an “incredible” player, who could be set to leave his club for a very low fee in the summer, according to a report.

Magpies set sights on new goalkeeper

Nick Pope has struggled with injuries at times during the current season, and with the Englishman now arguably in the latter stages of his career at 33-years-old, Newcastle are looking at bringing in a new goalkeeper at the end of the campaign.

One of the most exciting targets on the shortlist is Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, fresh off the back of a fantastic season with the Clarets in the Championship, shipping a total of just 16 league goals across the entire season.

Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel is another option for the Magpies, having made contact over a deal for the shot-stopper back in April, while they have expressed a strong interest in signing Southampton’s Aaron Ramsdale, who has impressed Eddie Howe in the past.

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According to reports from France (via Sport Witness), Newcastle also have their eye on a goalkeeper who has impressed in Ligue 1 this season, namely Angers’ Yahia Fofana, having now made contact over a deal for the Ivorian.

With his contract set to expire in 2026, Fofana could be in line to leave Angers this summer, and there is a feeling he could be available on the cheap, with an €8m – €10m (£6.8m – £8.4m) transfer fee being touted.

There could be fierce competition for the Paris-born shot-stopper’s signature, however, who came through the same Le Havre academy that produced talents such as Paul Pogba and Dimitri Payet. Torino and Southampton also in the picture, but a move to St. James’ Park would be preferred over St. Mary’s, given the Saints’ impending relegation from the Premier League.

"Incredible" Fofana impressing in Ligue 1

Angers are among the middle of the pack in Ligue 1, but they could be a lot lower in the table if not for the performances of their goalkeeper, who is ranked as their best-performing player this season, achieving an average WhoScored league match rating of 6.88.

The Ivory Coast international has stood out for quite some time, having previously been lauded as “incredible” by scout Antonio Mango, who also added: “His agility, reactions and positioning is outstanding. Whilst being institutive with his distributions.”

Fellow scout Ben Mattinson has also stated the 6-foot-4 colossus “claims crosses well”, while praising him for his range of passing, indicating that he could be a fantastic modern-day goalkeeper.

With Fofana set to be available for a fee as low as £6.8m this summer, he could be a bargain signing for Newcastle, but Trafford should remain their number one target to replace Pope long-term, having matched the EFL record of 29 clean sheets last season.