All posts by z3u9t.icu

Leeds United made their fourth signing of the summer transfer window on Tuesday when they officially confirmed the arrival of Gabriel Gudmundsson.

The Sweden international has joined the club on a permanent deal from Ligue 1 side Lille as a direct replacement for Junior Firpo, who left upon the expiry of his contract at the end of last month.

Daniel Farke has also brought in Sebastiaan Bornauw, Jaka Bijol, and Lukas Nmecha to bolster his options across the pitch ahead of the Premier League season.

The Whites are also reportedly interested in on a new central midfielder, as Fabrizio Romano recently reported that the club have bid for Newcastle United’s Sean Longstaff.

Romano claimed that personal terms have already been agreed between the Championship champions and the English midfielder, which suggests that the player is keen to make the move to West Yorkshire.

However, it has since been claimed by Sky Sports that Leeds have had three bids rejected for the Magpies man and that they are currently considering their options.

What Sean Longstaff could bring to Leeds

Above all else, Longstaff would provide much-needed Premier League experience to the midfield, having played 171 times in the division for Newcastle to date.

Of Farke’s current options in the middle of the park, Ethan Ampadu, with 26 appearances, is the only central midfielder who has played in the Premier League before, as Ilia Gruev and Ao Tanaka have only played in the Championship in England.

This means that Longstaff would be the kind of Premier League proven midfielder that the club do not currently have, which is why he could be a very solid addition to the squad for a relatively modest fee of £12m.

The 27-year-old ace, who failed to provide a goal or an assist in the top-flight last season, is not a hugely exciting signing that is likely to get many fans off their seats, but he is a sensible and logical signing.

Tackles

3.05

Top 19%

Interceptions

0.79

Bottom 35%

Blocks

1.92

Top 8%

Clearances

0.79

Top 46%

Percentage of dribblers tackled

66.7%

Top 4%

Passes blocked

1.35

Top 11%

Errors

0.00

Top 12%

As you can see in the table above, Longstaff put up some impressive defensive numbers in a host of key statistics, bar interceptions, in the Premier League for Newcastle last term.

This suggests that he has the potential to be a reliable anchor in front of the back four by making tackles, blocks, and clearances on a regular basis, without making many, if any, errors.

Whilst Longstaff could be a solid signing to add to Farke’s midfield options, if they manage to overcome the hurdles blocking the deal at the moment, the club are also eyeing up a deal for another Premier League star who would be even more exciting.

Leeds pursuing Premier League attacking midfielder

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, Leeds United remain interested in a deal to sign attacking midfielder Emiliano Buendia from Premier League side Aston Villa.

Speaking to Leeds United News, the reporter confirms that the Championship champions are pursuing a move to bring the Argentina international to Elland Road on an initial loan deal.

Transfer Focus

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

Providing an update on the situation, Bailey said: “I am told that Leeds want Buendia on loan with an option to sign him – think Leeds are waiting Villa out.”

It has previously been reported that the Villans are looking for a fee in the region of £20m for the former Norwich City star, although it remains to be seen if that is the exact fee that would be included as the option to make a loan deal permanent.

Bailey stating that Leeds are ‘waiting Villa out’ suggests that this particular transfer saga may not reach a conclusion for a while yet, so this could be one to keep an eye on over the coming weeks.

Why Leeds should sign Emiliano Buendia

The Whites should push to bring the Argentine star to West Yorkshire this summer, on a permanent or a loan deal, because he has the potential to be an excellent addition to Farke’s attacking ranks.

As an attacking midfielder who can score and assist goals in the Premier League, Buendia would be an even more exciting signing for Leeds than Longstaff, who is set to offer a steady defensive presence in the middle of the park.

The 28-year-old magician has scored ten goals and provided 15 assists in 121 appearances in the Premier League in his career to date for Norwich and Villa combined, which shows that he has already shown his quality as both a scorer and a creator in the top-flight.

It was his form for Farke in the Championship at Norwich, though, that really makes this potential transfer an exciting one for Leeds, because he delivered outstanding performances for the German boss on a regular basis.

Appearances

38

39

Goals

8

15

Big chances created

7

18

Key passes per game

2.4

3.1

Assists

12

16

As you can see in the table above, the right-footed playmaker produced a staggering return of 23 goals and 28 ‘big chances’ created in two seasons in the second tier under the Leeds boss.

Whilst Buendia, who was described as “unplayable” by BBC Norfolk’s Rob Butler, has not put up those numbers in the Premier League yet, playing under Farke again could help him to fulfill his potential in the top-flight.

That is part of what makes this such an exciting potential transfer for the Whites, because they would be reuniting a mercurial talent with the manager who got the best out of him in his career to date.

He also already has experience in the Premier League, and has scored and assisted goals at that level, which suggests that Buendia could hit the ground running next term.

Their new Klich: Leeds considering move for PL star after internal talks

Leeds United are reportedly considering a deal to sign a star who could be their next Mateusz Klich.

ByDan Emery Jul 9, 2025

Overall, the Argentine star would be a more exciting signing than Longstaff, albeit one that would come with more risk attached, because of his attacking potential, which is why the club should push to strike a deal for his services.

Next season may well be Arsenal’s most important in Mikel Arteta’s tenure.

It’s been over five years since the Spaniard was handed the reins, and while he led them to FA Cup glory in his first six months and turned them into genuine Premier League contenders, he hasn’t won anything since.

Fortunately, the club seem to recognise the seismic importance of the upcoming campaign, as recent days and weeks have seen them linked to a host of talented attacking players.

One of the most exciting stars touted for a move to the Emirates has been Rodrygo, although, if recent reports are to be believed, Arsenal could soon secure the services of someone who would be an even better signing.

Arsenal target goalscoring monster

Arsenal have been linked with a plethora of talented wingers in recent weeks and months, from those close to home, such as Eberechi Eze at Crystal Palace, to those further afield, like Rafael Leao at AC Milan.

Transfer Focus

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

However, the name that has seemingly caught the imagination of fans more than any other for the left-side starting berth has been Rodrygo, who has been consistently touted for a move to the Emirates for well over a month now.

The most recent stories claim he could be available for as little as £68m, which is a substantial amount, but might still be a bargain for a superstar who has won two Champions Leagues in recent years.

However, even though we, and many others, are convinced that the Brazilian would be a good signing for Arteta’s side, there is another international game-changer who’d arguably be an even better one: Viktor Gyokeres.

Yes, according to a recent report from Portuguese outlet O Jogo, Arsenal have maintained their intense interest in the Sporting CP striker.

Moreover, the report has revealed that, as things stand, the striker is desperate to leave the Lisbon outfit and that the Gunners are currently at the front of the waiting pack.

However, it could be a complicated deal to finalise, as the report reaffirms prior revelations that Sporting will not let him leave for €70m – £60m – while other reports have claimed he might only be allowed to leave for around €80m, which is approximately £69m.

It would be a lot to spend on one player, but it feels like it would be worth it, especially as Gyokeres could end up being a better signing than Rodrygo.

Why Gyokeres would be a better signing than Rodrygo

It should go without saying that both players would be incredible additions to Arsenal’s squad this summer, but when it comes down to it, there are two reasons why Gyokeres would be the better signing.

The first is down to what is already available to the Gunners, as at the moment both Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli can play off the left, whereas up top, the only recognised strikers in the team are Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz.

However, the former could miss the rest of the year as he recovers from the ACL injury he picked up in January, while the latter is ultimately still a midfielder who’s shown himself capable of playing up top.

The second reason the Swedish international would be the better signing is even simpler: his output.

For example, while the Brazilian’s tally of 14 goals and 11 assists in 53 games this season is practically incomparable to what the sheer weight of goal involvements the Sporting star was able to produce.

Appearances

52

53

Minutes

4248′

3448′

Goals

54

14

Assists

13

11

Goal Involvements per Match

1.28

0.47

Minutes per Goal Involvement

63.40′

137.92

In his 52 appearances, which totalled 4248 minutes, the 27-year-old “powerhouse,” as dubbed by respected analyst Ben Mattinson, scored a mammoth 54 goals and provided 13 assists, which comes out to a ludicrous average of 1.28 goal involvements every game, or one every 63.40 minutes.

Just imagine the difference that even half of that tally would make for the Gunners next season, it would surely be the difference between glory and another runners-up medal.

Ultimately, then, while Rodrygo would be an excellent signing for Arsenal this summer, Gyokeres would be an even better, potentially game-changing one.

A big upgrade on Eze: Arsenal discussing move to sign £80m "nightmare"

The international attacker would be brilliant for Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 1, 2025

Birmingham City are reportedly in talks to complete the long-term signing of a top target in their third deal of matching kind this summer.

Birmingham have to be "picky", says Davies

The Blues are preparing for life back in the Championship, following such a dominant and memorable title-winning season in League One, with the club in an exciting place currently.

Manager Chris Davies has outlined Birmingham’s approach this summer, admitting that they now need to be “picky” with signings, which hasn’t always been the case under him.

“Last season we found that we were convincing players and selling them a project. I was saying to them, ‘Look, come here and in 10 months’ time we won’t be in League One, we’ll be a Championship team’. Now they’re coming to us. A lot more are coming to us, ‘We want to be part of this’.

“You’ve got to be a bit more picky now about who you engage with. Birmingham is a club that is going somewhere and everybody wants to be at a club that’s going somewhere. A lot of people are talking about the club around the country, and internationally as well, so people want to come here. It’s important now that we make sure we pick the right ones.”

Birmingham are being linked with some exciting players, from Tommy Doyle to Demarai Gray, and now it looks as though they are looking to get another important piece of business over the line.

Birmingham in talks to sign Davies permanently

According to a new update from Birmingham World, Birmingham are in talks with Ben Davies over completing a permanent move to the club, following a successful loan stint from Rangers last season.

The Englishman only has one more year remaining on his current deal in Scotland, so they may be happy to cash in on him now, with his current market value said to be £2m.

The club have already completed two deals of this kind this summer, turning the loan moves of Alfons Sampsted and Taylor Gardner-Hickman into permanent signings.

In Davies’ case, the former Liverpool defender made 35 appearances in League One overall, 32 of which were starts, and he averaged 6.2 clearances and 4.1 aerial duel wins per game en route to the Blues comfortably securing promotion to the Championship.

Appearances

35

Starts

32

Minutes played

2959

Clearances per game

6.2

Aerial duel wins per game

4.1

Tackles per game

1.1

Goals

1

Assists

1

Now 29, Davies is a hugely experienced head who could be a great squad option for Birmingham, with Klopp speaking fondly of him after he arrived at Liverpool in a shock deal in January 2021.

“He’s a really good footballer, looks like a proper leader in this Preston team, good in challenges, looks football smart, can play different positions because he played in a back three and a back four and all these things. That makes him really interesting so I’m really looking forward to working with him.”

After Kyogo: Birmingham want to sign new ST who's better than Stansfield

Birmingham are interested in signing a forward who would be even better than Jay Stansfield.

1 ByDan Emery Jun 26, 2025

There are few negatives to Birmingham snapping up Davies this summer, and if he performs like he did last season, the Blues’ hopes of a good campaign will be improved instantly.

There’s been a lack of activity in the transfer market so far this summer from Newcastle United, but fans shouldn’t worry; Eddie Howe’s side are looking to make several signings.

Having qualified for the Champions League on the final day of the Premier League season, the Magpies faithful will expect the squad to be rewarded for their Herculean efforts, winning the Carabao Cup too.

But sporting director Paul Mitchell stands down at the end of the month, and frustrations are already reaching boiling point for some given transfer targets like Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo appear to be headed elsewhere.

Mbeumo scored 20 goals across 38 top-flight fixtures, earning praise from Thomas Frank for his “unplayable” attacking performances.

However, with Mbeumo seemingly out of reach, Newcastle are turning their attention elsewhere, and might have found an exciting option perhaps not yet discussed by the biggest channels.

Newcastle enter race for Mbeumo alternative

As per Caught Offside, Newcastle are in the running for versatile RB Leipzig forward Antonio Nusa, though they are joined in their interest by a host of clubs, including Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea.

Valued at €45m (£38m), the 20-year-old has only been playing in Germany for a year but has made good progress, showcasing his range of attacking qualities. Thus, he could be snapped up before his stock rises higher still.

While there haven’t been any official proposals from the suitors yet, bids may materialise quickly, so Newcastle might be wise to act now and bring a top talent to St. James’ Park – one who might even outgrow Mbeumo in the future.

What Antonio Nusa would bring to Newcastle

Hailed as a “future icon” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Nusa has impressed across his maiden campaign in Germany, scoring five goals and supplying seven assists across 36 appearances.

The Norwegian talent has yet to find the kind of goalscoring form that has defined Mbeumo’s time in the Premier League, but there’s more to his skill set than that.

In the Champions League, particularly, he impressed. As per FBref, Nusa ranked among the top 4% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s elite competition for shot-creating actions, the top 7% for progressive carries and the top 5% for successful take-ons per 90.

There’s a long road ahead for Nusa if he wishes to prove himself as a better signing than Mbeumo in the future, but his underlying data certainly suggests he has what it takes.

Matches (starts)

25 (16)

38 (38)

Goals

3

20

Assists

3

7

Shots (on target)*

1.0 (0.3)

2.2 (1.1)

Big chances missed

1

9

Pass completion

78%

74%

Key passes*

0.8

1.8

Big chances created

6

17

Dribbles*

1.6

1.4

Ball recoveries*

3.1

4.1

Tackles + interceptions*

1.5

1.7

Duels won*

4.1

4.7

Nusa is still very young – five years Mbeumo’s junior, in fact – but you can already see a combativeness and efficiency in his ball-carrying that suggests he too could sustain complete performances in the Premier League.

Moreover, the Norway international might not have converted that many chances, but he only missed one big chance in the Bundesliga last term, highlighting an underlying clinical edge that Howe could harness over the coming years, using the player’s pace and power to get him into dangerous positions.

Mbeumo will cost a pretty penny to prise from Brentford this summer, and given the strength of Newcastle’s existing frontline, adding an up-and-coming talent who can challenge for places might just be the winning formula for Howe’s side, as they step back onto the continent’s biggest stage.

Mbeumo & Pedro hybrid: Newcastle confident of signing "dangerous" £55m star

Newcastle are looking for a versatile forward

1 ByJoe Nuttall Jun 13, 2025

Birmingham City might well have stormed to the League One title in part due to their electric attacking arsenal consisting of Jay Stansfield, Alfie May, and many others, but the Blues’ defence also shone all season to ensure the title was triumphantly lifted.

Indeed, Chris Davies’ men would only ship 31 goals across the course of the memorable 46-game marathon, as the likes of Christoph Klarer and Ben Davies routinely bullied third-tier attackers.

Davies will know he needs that same switched-on approach from his back-line as they navigate a step-up in quality, with Birmingham once possessing a rock-solid option at this level in the form of Auston Trusty, before he eventually moved on to pastures new at Celtic.

Trusty's standout loan spell at Birmingham

The American titan would join the building on loan the season before Birmingham’s relegation to League One, but that isn’t to say he entered a camp that was sky-high on confidence.

The Blues had been locked into many a relegation scrap before his arrival, with a worrying 75 goals leaked during the 2021/22 season when Trusty was still on the books of Arsenal.

Whilst Trusty’s added presence could only see Birmingham finish in an equally disappointing 17th position in the league the next campaign, his importance to the cause was definitely noticeable.

By the end of his St. Andrew’s stint, the 6-foot-3 defender would tally up four league goals from 44 games – which included this audacious flick beating Seny Dieng – away from bringing the goals conceded number down to a more respectable 58.

Winning a valiant 6.2 duels on average too, the American ultimately ended the campaign having claimed the club’s Player of the Year award, prior to sealing a permanent switch to Sheffield United.

Davies, meanwhile, will be crying out for similarly dominant performances from his batch of defenders when making the step back up, with this potential new signing going on to be his own iteration of the now Celtic regular if everything slots into place.

Birmingham could land the next Trusty

After all, despite boasting such an impressive defensive record during their promotion success story, Birmingham will know how demanding the Championship can be, meaning improvements could be sought after.

Transfer Focus

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

The ambitious Blues are reportedly in the race to sign Luton Town powerhouse Teden Mengi to help in this regard, with Burnley, Sunderland, and Middlesbrough all also keen on adding the ex-Manchester United defender to their rosters this summer, as per journalist Graeme Bailey.

The in-demand starlet previously joined the Blues on loan for the second half of the 2021/22 campaign, albeit with a recurring hamstring injury limiting him to just ten appearances in all competitions. Now, another opportunity to thrive at St Andrews could be on the cards.

Straight off the bat, there are plenty of comparisons to be made between Mengi and Trusty, with the pair having been noted as statistically similar players among those in their position in the Premier League, as per FBref, during the 2023/24 season with Luton and Sheffield United, respectively.

That likeness was particularly seen in their ability to sniff out the danger in their own penalty area, with Mengi ranking in the top 11% for clearances made per 90, while Trusty ranked in the top 9% for that same metric.

Equally, the 6-foot battler’s early education came at the illustrious Red Devils in the Premier League, much like his centre-back counterpart calling the Emirates home as a youngster.

Moreover, Mengi has managed to forge a successful career for himself away from his hometown club – much like the American has at Celtic – as seen in the 23-year-old’s current spell with Matt Bloomfield’s Hatters now attracting interest from various suitors.

Games played

30

20

Goals scored

1

1

Assists

0

1

Touches*

44.4

48.1

Accurate passes*

24.2 (78%)

27.8 (77%)

Ball recoveries*

4.2

4.2

Clearances*

4.5

3.9

Total duels won*

4.3

3.6

As can be seen looking at the table above, Mengi has shone in spurts for Luton, particularly when the underdogs were battling bravely against the Premier League drop, with the Manchester-born enforcer winning 4.3 duels on average across his 30 top-flight appearances.

The then Luton manager, Rob Edwards, would even label Mengi as “astounding” for his ability to perform under such pressures, with his addition to Davies’ camp now perhaps viewed as a worthwhile boost to their defensive numbers, away from just relying on the old guard of Klarer and Co.

After all, the last time Birmingham purchased a former Premier League starlet to help out the back in the form of Trusty, it went down as a golden purchase, with Mengi – who Football Transfers value at £6m – potentially viewed down the line as another successful buy.

More exciting than Gray: Birmingham eyeing up new move for "special" star

Birmingham City could seal an even more exciting signing than the return of Demarai Gray by winning this special attacker’s services.

ByKelan Sarson Jun 9, 2025

Nice time to be a Liverpool fan, ay. Arne Slot’s side lifted the Premier League trophy after drawing with Crystal Palace at Anfield, ending a memorable campaign.

FSG will be delighted, but they won’t want this triumph to stand as a flash in the pan. Instead, footballing chief Michael Edwards has been tasked with building a new dynasty on Merseyside, and sweeping changes are anticipated ahead of the summer transfer window.

Well, more than that. The cogs are whirring away, deals firmly in the pipeline. Liverpool might have been forced into a poignant divorce with Trent Alexander-Arnold, who will join Real Madrid on a free transfer, but frustration has been assuaged by the flurry of activity in recent weeks.

Changes aren’t just anticipated; Liverpool are acting with the incisiveness of champions.

Liverpool closing on exciting deals

If you haven’t been living under a rock, you’ll be aware Liverpool are closing on the audacious signing of Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz for a club-record fee.

Wirtz, 22, won the Bundesliga Player of the Season for 2023/24 and has been described as a “generational talent” while at it by sports media professional Cristian Nyari, and Liverpool have beaten Manchester City and Bayern Munich to his signature.

It’s not yet set in stone, but the Reds have backed up their title-winning season with a monstrous gambit, and before the transfer window’s even opened its stalls.

And that’s not all. Jeremie Frimpong has completed his medical, surely just days away from completing his transfer to Merseyside, the Werkself right-sider ready to link back up with Wirtz.

Trent might be leaving, but FSG have acted with intent to sign two players who, combined, replace the vice-captain’s one-of-a-kind talents and might even transcend them.

But there’s more. In fact, Fabrizio Romano has chimed in to reveal talks are advancing with yet another sought-after star.

Liverpool advancing talks for another signing

As per Romano, Liverpool are still engaged in talks with Bournemouth for Milos Kerkez, who is “very keen” on moving to Anfield this summer.

Transfer Focus

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

The Hungarian, 21, is expected to fetch a fee of around £45m, though Liverpool will surely want this whittled down.

Slot has wanted a new left-back signed, given the 31-year-old Andy Robertson is on the decline and Kostas Tsimikas, his deputy, is available for transfer.

Favourites to get the deal done, with Man City and Real Madrid also registering their interest in recent weeks, Liverpool are pulling out all the stops to reward Slot for his incredible feat, and Kerkez might just prove to be the most important signing of the lot.

Why Liverpool want Milos Kerkez

Now, that might seem like something of a bold claim. Let’s make it clear: Wirtz is one of the best attacking midfielders in the world, and will cost in excess of €100m (£85m), though not as much as some exorbitant initial claims.

He’s a marquee signing, and that’s a fact, but Kerkez is a player whose signing needs to be agreed upon if Liverpool are to make headway and better this Premier League-winning campaign.

Certainly, Kerkez could prove to be the more transformative addition to Liverpool’s flanks.

Though Frimpong will bring a unique style to the right side of Virgil van Dijk’s backline, the Dutchman will find himself jockeying for a number one berth with Conor Bradley, who signed a new long-term contract with the Anfield side last week and is one of the most exciting young full-backs in the game.

However, Robertson has been continually criticised for his athletic regression, his lapses in concentration. Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher acknowledged the “absolute legend” last month but went on to outline how he is “hanging on in every game now.”

Kerkez could dynamise Liverpool’s defence, provide a worthy heir for the coming age. Pundit Izzy Christensen has hailed the “machine” for his role at Bournemouth this term, and he’s indeed maintained a high level that has outstripped that of Robertson.

Matches (starts)

38 (38)

33 (29)

Goals

2

0

Assists

5

1

Touches*

59.6

64.5

Pass completion

80%

88%

Big chances created

8

7

Ball recoveries*

4.4

3.2

Dribbles*

0.6

0.2

Tackles + interceptions*

2.6

1.8

Clearances*

2.6

1.3

Ground duels (won)*

3.3 (61%)

1.6 (52%)

Though Robertson is still more precise on the ball, this is largely down to a tactical approach from Slot, which could be inculcated smoothly into Kerkez’s own game, should he sign this summer.

One thing’s for certain, Kerkez would be a massive upgrade, and a more important signing than Frimpong besides. That’s not to the 24-year-old Leverkusen star’s discredit, but rather illustrates where the focus lies at Liverpool.

There’s a completeness about the Hungary international which suggests he could be the archetypal modern full-back, whereas Frimpong, though fleet-footed and electric on the ball, has drawn criticism for his defensive work at times.

Xabi Alonso’s man only won 45% of his ground duels in the Bundesliga last season, as per Sofascore, albeit fielded in a more advanced position than your typical wide defender.

Of course, a potential by-product of that is that Frimpong lacks the defensive nous that, for example, Kerkez would have, for he has simply not enjoyed the repetitive absorption of such skills in recent years, having been stuck in the attacking half, ready to explode and surge forward.

Liverpool are forging ahead with a deal for Wirtz, and rightly so. But sporting director Richard Hughes has got his hands in several pies and he’s juggling the responsibility expertly. Barring something drastic and deflating, all three exciting talents will be playing in Liverpool red next year.

Does it really even matter which one’s the most important, if that is indeed the case?

Liverpool are brewing their own version of Wirtz in "fearless" academy star

Liverpool could do with an academy sensation breaking into Arne Slot’s senior squad.

ByAngus Sinclair May 24, 2025

Arsenal have now made contact with the entourage of an “incredible” striker, who they are now seriously considering making a move for in the summer, according to a report.

Gunners stepping up striker pursuit

Mikel Arteta’s side have been heavily criticised for not signing a striker last summer or during the January transfer window, with Gary Neville describing the decision as a “mystery” earlier in the campaign.

Since then, the Gunners’ hopes of winning any silverware this season have gone up in smoke, with Paris Saint-Germain’s 3-1 aggregate victory in the Champions League semi-final sealing their fate.

As such, you would think that Arteta will finally bite the bullet and sign a top striker this summer, and recent developments indicate the Spaniard is going to do exactly that, with the north Londoners now advancing in talks to sign Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres.

There has since been another update on the pursuit of more of a left-field target, with a report from Spain revealing Arsenal are now seriously considering a move for Botafogo striker Igor Jesus, who is also being targeted by West Ham United and Aston Villa.

Jesus is protected by a €100m (£84m) release clause in his contract, but the Brazilian side are believed to be willing to sanction a departure for a lower fee, and such is the Gunners’ level of interest, they have now made contact with his entourage.

The Brazilian is now among the north Londoners’ priority targets, despite the deal for Gyokeres edging closer to completion, with the striker’s performances since signing for Botafogo putting him in the shop window.

Arsenal receive "major" Viktor Gyokeres update amid Sporting deal-breaker

The Sporting CP star is a top target for Andrea Berta.

ByEmilio Galantini May 17, 2025 Jesus could be "incredible" signing for Arsenal

Journalist Zach Lowy branded the Botafogo forward as “incredible” back in December, having started 2024 with some impressive performances in the UAE, before forcing his way into the set-up of the Brazil national side after catching the eye in his home country.

The Cuiaba-born marksman led Botafogo to a league title triumph in 2024, and he has since started the new season in solid fashion, picking up three goals and one assist in eight Brazilian Serie A outings.

Competition

Appearances

Goals

Assists

Liga Portugal

33

39

8

Champions League

8

6

0

Taca de Portugal

6

4

3

Allianz Cup

3

4

0

Supertaca

1

0

2

That said, Jesus’ lack of experience in Europe means it would be a risk for Arsenal to sign the South American this summer, and a move for Gyokeres could make more sense, especially considering the Swede’s fantastic record in front of goal this season, netting 53 goals across all competitions.

Liverpool may now have to do battle with Real Madrid and Barcelona for the signature of a £80m midfielder this summer, according to former scout Mick Brown.

Florian Wirtz race heating up

The transfer window is yet to officially open, but the Reds are clearly looking to get their business done early, with a deal for Jeremie Frimpong looking like it is edging closer to completion, and the Dutchman’s Bayer Leverkusen teammate could follow him to Anfield.

Indeed, Florian Wirtz has emerged as a major target for Arne Slot’s side, who have now taken the action of submitting a concrete contract offer for the German, but a deal will not be cheap, as the total package could amount to over £250m all-in.

Wirtz is being targeted to bolster the attacking midfield area, having consistently provided goals and assists for Leverkusen ever since breaking into the first team at a very young age.

Season

Bundesliga appearances

Goals

Assists

2020-21

29

5

6

2021-22

24

7

10

2022-23

17

1

6

2023-24

32

11

12

2024-25

31

10

13

As such, the 22-year-old could be an exciting addition to the attack, but there have also been suggestions that Slot is also looking to strengthen in a slightly deeper area, with Brown telling Football Insider that Liverpool are now racing Real Madrid for Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton.

Barcelona have also been “having a look” at the FA Cup-winning midfielder, who has a huge asking price of £80m, which could pose a problem for the Reds, and Brown believes the Merseysiders may also have some concerns over certain aspects of his game.

The former scout said: “Adam Wharton’s quality is unquestionable, there are no concerns there. In the Premier League, that’s very, very important.

“On the other side of things is his ability to cover the ground, and he seems to me to be a yard short in terms of covering the ground. So that’s going to be a concern for the likes of Liverpool or Man City – albeit not a major one.”

Wharton is a "generational talent"

Brown suggests the Palace star may not yet be the full package, but he is still very young, and the 21-year-old has been tipped to be capable of going on to achieve big things by members of the media, who have lauded the midfielder as a “generational talent”.

Despite not playing in as advanced a role as Wirtz, the England international also has attacking tendencies, given his ability to advance the ball further up the pitch, averaging the second-highest percentage of forward passes in the Premier League this term.

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Brown’s phrasing suggests Real Madrid’s interest is not advanced, but Trent Alexander-Arnold’s prospective move underlines the allure of moving to the Bernabeu, so Liverpool could find it tough to win the race for Wharton if the Spanish side come calling.

Not only that, but Madrid are also in the race for Wirtz, with the European giants keeping an eye on the German, which will be another cause for concern.

Levi Colwill has been a regular fixture for Chelsea this season. The 22-year-old, who is a full England international, has featured 32 times in the Premier League and, more recently, twice in the UEFA Conference League, and will now be looking to guide the west Londoners to a trophy and a top-five finish.

That said, the Cobham graduate hasn’t been without his critics, having notably been “bullied” in the defeat to former club Brighton, in the words of Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville, while regularly drawing the ire of supporters.

In the league alone, the youngster has made three errors leading to a shot, one error leading to a goal and given away one penalty, as per Sofascore. He also ranks in just the bottom 46% for tackles, the bottom 13% for clearances and the bottom 31% for blocks per 90 among his centre-back peers in the top-flight, as per FBref, further exposing his defensive woes.

With that in mind, Chelsea have actually been linked with a new defensive signing this summer, perhaps to potentially dislodge Colwill – even amid Enzo Maresca’s faith in him.

Chelsea’s pursuit of Dean Huijsen

It seems like Chelsea, along with several other big clubs in the Premier League, are going to try and sign Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen. The Spaniard has been incredibly impressive this season, and given he has a £50m release clause, a move seems inevitable.

Well, Chelsea will be one of the sides vying for his signature, according to TEAMTalk, with the Blues the team ‘who have offered Huijsen the more tempting financial package’, in order to convince him to switch the South coast for West London.

However, Liverpool are also in the race, and several other European heavyweights, including Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, have also been linked at various times during the race for Huijsen’s signature.

As for why Chelsea want to sign Huijsen, well, he has been excellent at the back for Bournemouth this term, and was described as a “gem” by Sky Sports commentator Bill Leslie earlier in the season.

He has featured 29 times in the top flight this term, scoring three goals in that time and recording seven clean sheets so far. The young Spain international has certainly made a big impression, hence every major club in Europe has been linked with him.

If Chelsea can’t get this deal over the line, then they might not have to worry too much. The Blues actually have a perfect in-house alternative to Huijsen.

Chelsea’s in-house Huijsen alternative

If Huijsen has impressed for the Cherries this season, then Josh Acheampong has certainly made waves for Chelsea, despite the fact he has had far less of an opportunity in the first team at Stamford Bridge.

Described as a player with “elite potential” by football analyst Ben Mattinson, the 19-year-old has featured 11 times across all competitions for the Blues this term. Six of those games have come in the Conference League, where he has played 495 minutes so far.

The underlying numbers via Sofascore from Acheampong’s performances in the Conference League this term show just how well he has played. For example, he makes an average of 2.5 tackles and interceptions and wins an average of 0.9 aerial duels per game.

Passes completed

453

82.4

Pass accuracy

95.6%

95.6%

Long balls completed

7

1.3

Tackles and interceptions

14

2.5

Aerial duels won

5

0.9

The other thing that really stands out about the youngster is his ability on the ball. The 19-year-old, who can play as a right centre-back or a right-back, is clearly tidy in possession, as his 95.6% pass accuracy in the above table shows.

Not only that, but the London-born defender reads the game superbly, and can use his physicality to his advantage in defensive situations. Just look at this piece of defending in the Conference League, where he is able to use his strength to shepherd the ball to safety.

There is no doubting Acheampong’s ability. He has all the tools to become a genuine superstar, capable of playing in multiple positions across the back four, which is ideal for Maresca as he plans his defensive options for next season.

He is a player Chelsea will surely look to integrate into the first team in 2025/26. At the very least, if they do miss out on Huijsen, they are in safe hands, even more so, perhaps, than with Colwill at the back.

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Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim revealed after the extra-time win over Lyon in the Europa League that he would give young players a chance to shine in the Premier League for the rest of the season.

The Portuguese tactician was true to his word in the clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers at Old Trafford on Sunday, as Tyler Fredericson and Harry Amass both started.

Whilst it was a disappointing 1-0 defeat for the Reds, Amass caught the eye with a bright showing in the left wing-back position for the Red Devils.

Why Harry Amass is an exciting talent

The 18-year-old starlet played the full 90 minutes against Wolves and showcased his defensive strength and tenacity, winning nine of his 13 duels. He also completed 89% of his attempted passes and created one chance down the flank.

It was his third Premier League appearance and second start this season, whilst he also played 20 minutes off the bench against Lyon, and reporter Sam Luckhurst claimed “all signs” suggest that he can “compete” with Patrick Dorgu for a starting berth next term.

This all suggests that Amass is an exciting talent who could be a future star at Old Trafford, given his emergence in the first-team at such a young age, and his strong display against Wolves.

Chalkboard

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However, Manchester United may have already signed a player who could ruin the young left-back’s development next season and moving forward, in the form of Diego Leon.

Why Diego Leon could ruin Harry Amass' development

The Red Devils snapped up the teenage defender from Cerro Porteno in Paraguay during the January transfer window for a fee that could reportedly rise to £7m.

Whilst it is not certain to go this way, Leon could be viewed as a better long-term option than Amass because the academy graduate is a more valuable asset to be sold for PSR.

Homegrown players represent pure profit for clubs because they were not signed for lavish transfer fees and this means that United could, in theory, cash in on players like Kobbie Mainoo and Amass to give themselves more room with PSR to make big signings in other positions.

Leon’s experience at first-team level at a similar age also suggests that the potential is there for him to arrive at Old Trafford in the summer as a danger to Amass’ place in the squad.

Appearances (starts)

19 (18)

3 (2)

Goals

2

0

Big chances created

1

0

Tackles + interceptions per game

2.4

1.6

Dribbled past per game

0.7x

0.7x

Error led to shot/goal

0

0

Duels won per game

4.4

4.7

As you can see in the table above, the 18-year-old talent has already played 19 times and started 18 games at league level, despite only turning 18 this month, and outperformed the English defender in several statistics.

Leon, who was once described as an “explosive” and “marauding” left-back, has had more time to adjust to playing first-team football and that could give him an edge over Amass heading into pre-season.

Therefore, the Paraguay youth international could ruin the United academy graduate’s development by arriving as a potential upgrade on him, at the same age.

It could be an interesting sub-plot to keep an eye on during the club’s pre-season tour because there could be a big battle on between them to impress Amorim.

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