The T20Is were the ones postponed when India toured South Africa in 2021
ESPNcricinfo staff21-Jun-2024India are set to tour South Africa in November this year to play four T20Is. The matches will be played between November 8 and 15 across Durban, Gqeberha, Centurion, and Johannesburg.It is understood that these four T20Is were the ones postponed when India toured South Africa in 2021, the schedule of which was rejigged following the surge of Covid-19 cases in South Africa. India played just three Tests and three ODIs then, and a CSA release had said that the T20Is will be “rescheduled for a more opportune time in the new year”. South Africa had won both the Test and ODI series then.The teams had then agreed to play these matches later but couldn’t find a window. India had also toured South Africa in December 2023 for an all-format series consisting of three T20Is, three ODIs and two Tests, all part of the 2023-27 FTP. The T20I and Test series were drawn 1-1, while India won the ODIs 2-1.India’s T20I tour of SA 2024
1st T20I on November 8 – Kingsmead, Durban
2nd T20I on November 10 – St George’s Park, Gqeberha
3rd T20I on November 13 – SuperSport Park, Centurion
4th T20I on November 15 – Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
Hosting India is a financial lifesaver for most boards, and CSA is no different. It is understood that the broadcast revenues from one T20 equals over R150 million (US $8.4 million). CSA declared a loss of R119 million for the last financial year.”I would like to thank the BCCI for their continued support to South Africa’s cricket, and world cricket in general,” Lawson Naidoo, CSA chairperson, said. “Any tour by the Indian cricket team to our shores is filled with amazing camaraderie and exciting cricket, and I know our fans will be eagerly awaiting this series which will showcase the exceptional talent from both teams.”
After winning the Premier League title in the 2024/25 campaign, Liverpool have demonstrated no signs of slowing down their ambitions of being a powerhouse once again next season.
The Reds claimed the title by 10 points, losing just four games out of their 38, with two of which coming after they had already secured top spot in Arne Slot’s first season.
It was a year to remember for the club, reaching the next level under the Dutchman, subsequently doing so with only one senior addition during last summer’s window.
Liverpool manager ArneSlotcelebrates after winning the Premier League
However, this time around, it appears the board have massively backed the manager with funds in his quest to retain the title during the 2025/26 campaign.
Jeremie Frimpong has already been announced as a Reds player, with Milos Kerkez appearing next on their list, but their business doesn’t seem to be stopping anytime soon.
The latest on Liverpool’s for new additions this summer
Over recent weeks, a striker has emerged as a key target for Slot, as he looks to land a new talisman to hand him that added clinical edge within the front three at Anfield.
The likes of Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitiké and Viktor Gyokeres have all been mentioned as potential targets, but up until now, none of which appear to be edging closer to a move to Merseyside.
Ekitike and Isak
However, other areas of the pitch are in need of investment, with midfielder Adam Wharton emerging on their radar in recent days, according to journalist Francois Plateau.
He claims that the Reds have made contact with the representatives of the Crystal Palace star, and are set to explore a deal for the 21-year-old.
Plateau also confirmed that Slot’s men aren’t prepared to meet the current £60m price tag on his shoulders, which could lead to negotiations over a move for the England international.
Why Wharton would be a better signing than Wirtz for Liverpool
Liverpool fans have been handed another reason to be excited in recent days, after the club agreed a staggering £116.5m deal with Bayer Leverkusen for attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz.
The 22-year-old registered 22 combined goals and assists in the Bundesliga this campaign, with Slot’s side appearing to win the race for his signature after rejecting Manchester City and Bayern Munich.
Whilst such a deal looks set to cost the board a pretty penny, it’s one that would add a different dimension to the squad and has the potential to set them up for success in the immediate and long-term.
His record throughout 2024/25 would hand other attackers to bolster their own tallies, making the Reds an even bigger force to be reckoned with during Slot’s second campaign at the helm.
However, Wharton could prove to be a better signing than the German. While Wirtz will have to rival Mo Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai for a place in the side, the Reds have long missed a holding midfield player, notably trying to sign the likes of Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia since Fabinho’s departure.
At long, long last, Wharton could be the man to transform the Liverpool XI even more than Wirtz could. Indeed, when comparing his stats to those of current midfielders Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister, he’s managed to outperform them in key areas, further showcasing why he’d be a massive addition for the club.
The 21-year-old, who’s been labelled “world-class” by journalist Luke Weaser-Seychell, has managed to complete more progressive passes per 90, along with more key passes – having the ability in possession to aid the attackers ahead of him.
Games played
20
37
35
Goals & assists
2
4
10
Progressive passes
7.3
5.1
6.1
Key passes
1.8
0.7
1.5
Passes into final third
5.3
4.3
4.2
Interceptions made
1.7
1.4
0.7
Clearances made
1.9
1.6
1
Recoveries made
7
5.5
5.1
Wharton has also managed to thrive defensively, making more interceptions than the aforementioned duo, whilst making more recoveries – subsequently offering Slot an added presence at both ends of the pitch.
At just 21, to be outperforming the likes of Mac Allister and Gravenberch is no mean feat, highlighting how impressive he’s been in England’s top flight and having the time to improve further given his tender age.
Should he continue on his current trajectory, he has the potential to be one of the best deep-lying options in world football, with his rumoured price tag at present still an excellent price.
No doubt all the focus and hype is on Wirtz given his English record transfer, but Slot could trump such a move by plotting a move for Wharton – allowing the pair to lead the club to many titles in the years ahead.
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Glasgow Rangers appear to be closing in on their next head coach as Russell Martin is being heavily touted with a move to Ibrox ahead of next season.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano claims that the Scottish manager has accepted the project in Glasgow and is ready to join the Light Blues this summer.
Martin, who had a loan spell at Ibrox in the second half of the 2017/18 campaign, has been out of work since he was relieved of his duties by Premier League side Southampton at the end of 2024.
Whilst supporters may be concerned by his sacking in the top-flight in England, the ex-Norwich City centre-back also did a lot of good work in the Championship with the Saints, and has been backed to be a success by a former teammate.
As you can see in the clip above, Steven Naismith believes that Martin would bring a clear style of play to Ibrox that has been lacking with recent managerial appointments.
The style of play Russell Martin could bring to Rangers
If you look at the way his Southampton team played in the Championship, as a team expected to challenge at the top of the table, you can get an idea of how his Rangers team could look in the Scottish Premiership.
He coached a ball-dominant team that constantly wanted to control the game whilst also being progressive and creative in possession, rather than just having possession for the sake of having possession.
Martin wants his side to play with a purpose – to create chances and score goals – and his Southampton team did that effectively in the Championship in the 2023/24 campaign.
Pass accuracy
87.7%
1st
Passes into the penalty area
594
1st
Progressive passes
2556
1st
Shot-creating actions
1255
1st
xG
79.8
2nd
Points per game
1.89
4th
As you can see in the table above, the Saints ranked first in the league for progressive passes and passes into the penalty area, which shows how forward-thinking and incisive they were with the ball.
Southampton typically started matches in a 4-3-3 formation in that campaign, often with one winger who can drift infield to form a front two with the striker and one more traditional wide man on the other side.
This means that Rangers, should they go through with appointing Martin, should look to recruit players who would suit his ball-dominant and positionally flexible system in the summer transfer window.
With this in mind, the 49ers could land the Scottish head coach a dream first signing at Ibrox by swooping for a Leeds United star who has been linked with a move to Glasgow.
The Leeds star Rangers have been linked with
Earlier this month, TEAMtalk reported that Rangers have emerged as a potential suitor for Leeds forward Largie Ramazani ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
The outlet claimed that the Premiership giants are ‘monitoring’ his situation at Elland Road, a year on from his £10m move from Almeria to England.
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It stated that Ramazani aligns with how the club want to recruit talent in the transfer market, as they are looking for young and dynamic players who can thrive in the Premiership and European competitions.
However, it remains to be seen whether or not the £10m-rated forward will be available for a move this summer because Daniel Farke is yet to make a final decision on his future in West Yorkshire.
Largie Ramazani
The 49ers and sporting director Kevin Thelwell should, though, push hard to agree a deal for the Belgian forward because he would be a dream first signing for Martin at Ibrox, should he be appointed in the coming days or weeks.
Why Largie Ramazani would be a dream signing for Russell Martin
As aforementioned, the Scottish coach’s Southampton team typically had a traditional, direct, winger on the left and more of a central player on the right in the Championship.
Ramazani would be a perfect fit for Rangers on the left in Martin’s system as a natural wide player who likes to take players on and make things happen in the final third, using his dribbling and pace to cause opposition teams problems.
In fact, talent scout Jacek Kulig once described him as a “mini Vinicius”, referring to Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr, because of his “electric” and “explosive” play style, and the fact that they are both nimble and dynamic right-footed left wingers.
Whilst he may not have racked up 21 goals and 15 assists like Vinicius Jr did for Real in the 2024/25 campaign, Ramazani’s form in limited minutes for Leeds suggests that the potential is there for him to be an exciting addition for the Gers.
Non-penalty xG
0.53
Top 1%
Non-penalty goals
0.68
Top 1%
Assists
0.23
Top 18%
Non-penalty xG + Expected Assisted Goals
0.69
Top 1%
Progressive passes
4.29
Top 18%
Progressive carries
4.63
Top 8%
As you can see in the table above, the 24-year-old attacker ranked highly among his positional peers in the league for scoring and creating goals, whilst also progressing the ball consistently through carries and passes.
This suggests that he would be an ideal fit for Martin’s system, which requires players to constantly progress the play, whilst also having the quality in the final third to be a difference-maker in matches.
Ramazani ended the season with six goals and two assists in the division, despite starting just seven of his 29 appearances, which shows that he can be productive in front of goal.
Now, imagine the Belgian winger in a Rangers team managed by Martin that could consistently create chances for him to score, whilst starting week-in-week-out.
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Ramazani would be a dream first signing for both Martin and the 49ers because of the potential he has to be a game-changing addition on the wing, whilst also suiting the potential new manager’s style of play perfectly.
Leeds United will re-enter the Premier League relieved that they won’t have to sell a load of their stars like last summer.
Indeed, there was a mass exodus away from West Yorkshire after the Whites’ heartbreaking playoff final defeat in the Championship, resulting in Archie Gray, Crysencio Summerville, and Georginio Rutter all upping and leaving for the luxuries of a new top-flight team.
These notable departures thankfully didn’t derail Daniel Farke’s men on their way to lifting the second-tier title. Still, Leeds could be about to finally land an exciting Rutter replacement this summer.
After all, since the Frenchman’s farewell, Leeds have had to make do with some lacklustre performers in the number ten role.
Leeds in the race to sign Championship star
Farke won’t feel too confident in relying on Brenden Aaronson to come good in the Premier League, considering the American attacker has struggled at the daunting level before, scoring one goal and registering only three assists during the doomed 2022/23 campaign.
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Therefore, it’s no shock to see Leeds be linked with this entertaining number ten, with The Irish Sun now reporting that the newly promoted side have joined the intense race to snap up Middlesbrough ace Finn Azaz.
AFC Bournemouth and Crystal Palace are also named as interested onlookers, meaning Leeds’ quest to win the Irishman’s services could be tough.
But, if Farke and Co. are serious about improving their already electric attacking output ahead of Premier League football returning to Elland Road, winning the £20m-rated midfielder’s services will be deemed a top priority, particularly if he is capable of being the figure to finally fill Rutter’s void.
Why Azaz can finally replace Rutter
It might well be bizarre to say that Leeds still feel a need to replace Rutter, considering the Whites stormed to the second-tier title with 95 goals bagged.
But, whilst Aaronson would chip in with a respectable tally of nine strikes and two assists on the way to promotion being resoundingly won, the 24-year-old blows far too hot and cold compared to the regular brilliance of the ex-Whites number 24.
Rutter, despite promotion falling to the wayside towards the close of the disappointing 2023/24 season, would still manage to collect a mammoth eight goals and 16 assists in league action.
Staggeringly, Azaz would only find himself one short of eclipsing this hefty total this campaign just gone for Michael Carrick’s own failed promotion hopefuls.
Azaz’s ability to drive forward and carve teams open from the number ten spot for Boro is eerily similar to the much-loved 23-year-old during his Elland Road prime.
The hope will just be that the 6-foot-1 star can make the transition to the Premier League look smooth, but having never been given a fair opportunity at his former employers Aston Villa, he will be chomping at the bit to succeed if he’s given the call by Farke’s men.
Games played
45
45
Goals scored
12
6
Assists
11
15
Shots*
2.7
2.7
Touches*
48.7
46.6
Accurate passes*
23.3 (74%)
15.1 (69%)
Key passes*
2.0
1.9
Big chances missed
5
17
Big chances created
10
22
Looking at the table above, the similarities just keep stacking up, with Farke more prepared to take a risk on his potential new £20m buy in the knowledge that Rutter moved up and acclimatised to his new surroundings swimmingly, with eight goal contributions next to his name from 28 Premier League appearances in 2024/25.
The Boro star is the “whole package” – as he’s been labelled by his current boss Carrick – and could well feel he’s now outgrown the Championship. Indeed, a sparkling 11 goals and ten assists also came his way in league action during the 2023/24 campaign, alongside nearly matching Rutter at the Riverside Stadium recently.
Therefore, ahead of their Premier League voyage taking off, taking a risk on EFL superstar Azaz to come good might well see the West Yorkshire titans win themselves Rutter 2.0.
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Manchester United’s front line has massively disappointed throughout the 2024/25 campaign, being one of the main reasons for their dismal Premier League finish.
The Red Devils finished in 15th place, just three places above the relegation zone, finishing the season with two times fewer points than eventual champions Liverpool.
Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo finished as the top scorers for Ruben Amorim’s side, both notching just eight goals, with no player managing to reach double figures in the league.
Manchester United manager RubenAmorimbefore the match
Strikers Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were both massively out of form throughout the entire year, only scoring seven goals in the Premier League between them.
As a result, the hierarchy have wasted no time in targeting reinforcements in such a department, with numerous names already mentioned with a summer switch to Old Trafford.
The latest on United’s hunt for new attackers this summer
With the transfer window set to open over the next couple of weeks, United have already begun work to land new stars to help Amorim’s quest of being a success in charge of the club.
Viktor Gyokeres, Hugo Ekitiké and Benjamin Sesko have all been touted with a summer switch to join the Red Devils, but as of yet, no progress has yet been made on such deals.
However, work has been conducted on a deal to sign Napoli forward Victor Osimhen over recent days, that’s according to Italian journalist Valter De Maggio.
He claimed on radio station Kiss Kiss Napoli, that the Red Devils hierarchy have met up with the Serie A side and negotiated a potential deal for the Nigerian international.
The journalist also confirmed that Antonio Conte’s side would want £40m plus current striker Hojlund in the other direction for the 26-year-old, who’s scored 36 times in 40 appearances on loan at Galatasaray this season.
Why United’s latest target would be a better signing than Delap
Over the last couple of weeks, striker Liam Delap has been widely touted with a move to join United this summer after his £30m relegation release clause became active.
Ipswich Town'sLiamDelapreacts
The 22-year-old scored 12 goals for relegated Ipswich Town, undoubtedly being their shining light in a dismal campaign, leading to his subsequent links to join the Red Devils.
However, despite the interest, it appears as though Amorim’s side are set to miss out on a deal for his services, with Chelsea taking the lead in the race for his signature in recent days.
It’s been reported that United’s lack of European football has handed the Blues the advantage, leading to the potential interest in a deal for Osimhen as a result.
However, when comparing the pair’s respective stats from the recent season, the Nigerian has managed to better him in various key areas – undoubtedly being a better addition than Delap.
Galatasaray's VictorOsimhenreacts
The Napoli star, who’s been labelled “the best striker on the market” by Statman Dave, has massively outscored the Englishman and registered a higher shot on target rate – highlighting his clinical edge in the final third.
He’s also managed to complete more of the passes he’s attempted and achieved a higher take-on success rate, handing Amorim an all round option in the final third – something he’s greatly missed.
Games played
29
37
Goals & assists
30
14
Shot-on-target accuracy
46%
43%
Shots on target per game
3.4
1
Pass accuracy
68%
61%
Take-on success
60%
46%
Aerials won
64%
42%
Osimhen’s dominance doesn’t end there, winning more aerials, with his ability in the air offering the club a needed focal point, which they desperately need to take them back to their former glory.
The reported deal, which could see Hojlund move back to Serie A, may prove to be a blessing in disguise for United, moving on a player who’s simply not at the level required for the Premier League.
It may be disappointing to miss out on Delap given the bargain price he’s available for, but the Nigerian has demonstrated that he’s a better option, handing the club the elite-level attacker they need to right the wrongs of 2024/25.
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Interestingly, it’s all gone a bit quiet on the centre-forward front for Liverpool, who are progressing with plans across other areas as Arne Slot works out how to improve his title-winning squad.
It’s curious because it’s been understood for several months that Liverpool are making the addition of a new focal frontman a priority, but with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s imminent departure now set in stone, FSG have moved quickly to land Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong, with a deal in the closing stages.
Bayer Leverkusen's Jeremie Frimpong
It’s also understood that left-back Milos Kerkez will be bumped up to first priority once the Dutchman has signed, with Andy Robertson no longer at his rip-roaring best.
Interest in Florian Wirtz has dominated headlines in recent days, but none of this should detract from the fact that Liverpool are going to launch a statement move for a new striker this summer.
Darwin Nunez is set to leave, after all.
The latest on Darwin Nunez's Liverpool future
Nunez arrived on Merseyside to much fanfare, leaving Benfica after a prolific stint that saw goals scored against Jurgen Klopp’s Reds, Barcelona and Bayern Munich in one Champions League campaign.
He joined, aged 22, for a club-record fee rising to £85m.
Liverpool's DarwinNunezcelebrates after winning the Premier League
Fast track three years, and the 25-year-old is set to leave the club with rueful frustrations over what might have been. Despite flashes of brilliance, the mercurial talent has never kicked on, and actually fallen back several steps under Slot’s wing.
Ultimately, it just hasn’t quite worked out for Nunez. But he still leaves Anfield with a Carabao Cup medal and as a Premier League champion, having clinched 66 goal involvements across 141 appearances.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed he is expected to leave, with all parties keen on drawing a close to his Liverpool career.
24/25
45
1,982′
7
7
23/24
54
3,026′
18
15
22/23
42
2,366′
15
4
Slot has only started the Uruguay forward once in the top flight since Boxing Day, however, and it’s almost nailed-on that he’ll be plying his trade elsewhere next term, with Liverpool gearing up to advance interest in a talented new striker.
Liverpool eyeing bid for new striker
As per Caught Offside, Liverpool are weighing up a bid for Brighton & Hove Albion striker Joao Pedro, who has enjoyed two promising years on the south coast.
The Brazilian talent, still only 23, is also being pursued by Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United, whose fate in qualifying for the Champions League will determine their place in the race.
Brighton striker Joao Pedro
The Premier League star is expected to fetch a fee of around €60m (£51m) if he leaves the AMEX this summer. No small sum, but more affordable than some other high-profile names on the market.
Joao Pedro is the perfect Nunez upgrade
Joao Pedro left Watford in the Championship to sign for Brighton in a deal just shy of the £30m mark in 2023, and he’s since posted 30 goals and ten assists across 70 matches in all competitions.
Joao Pedro celebrates for Brighton & Hove Albion.
While he’s undergone something of a quieter season this year, the versatile attacker has been regarded for his “really magical” quality by Bundesliga commentator Kevin Hatchard, and has hit 17 contributions from just 24 starts.
He’s a work in progress, but one who has proved himself in the Premier League. There’s little question he would offer more for Slot’s team than Nunez has this season, adding a dimension that will surely be required to ease the burden on Mohamed Salah and angle Liverpool toward a more balanced offensive threat.
Contrasting the two forwards’ Premier League campaigns, it’s clear to see why Liverpool would be interested in making the change.
Matches (starts)
28 (8)
27 (23)
Goals
5
10
Assists
2
6
Shots (on target)*
1.2 (0.4)
1.7 (0.7)
Big chances missed
7
7
Pass completion
71%
75%
Big chances created
3
11
Key passes*
0.4
1.1
Dribbles*
0.3
1.1
Tackles + interceptions*
0.8
0.9
Duels won*
2.1
4.9
Joao Pedro certainly has aspects to improve upon, but there’s no question he’s a dynamic and rounded player with technical flair and a tenacious attitude besides.
By contrast, Nunez has plunged into deep fathoms, detached from the combative, committed player who first arrived at Anfield, raw but robust and raring to go.
Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez
FBref have crunched the data to reveal more about Joao Pedro’s skill set, and why his multi-facetedness would be perfect for Slot’s side.
Across the current Premier League campaign, the £50k-per-week talent ranks among the top 3% of forwards for assists, the top 15% for shot-creating actions and passes attempted, the top 20% for progressive carries, the top 17% for successful take-ons, and the top 6% for through balls per 90.
To put it another way, he’s endowed with an athletic and creative style that Slot would will into any direction he pleases, and while the clinical edge needs some sharpening, Joao Pedro has converted 19 big chances in the league for the Seagulls, missing 16 big chances all told.
Nunez, conversely, has missed 54 big chances since first playing in England’s top flight, only scoring 25 league goals in that timeframe.
His presence has waned in Slot’s system, a rather damning indictment on his at-odds efforts given the meteoric rises of Ryan Gravenberch, Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai.
A player of “ridiculous” talent who has yet to really break into his quickest stride, according to one Brighton analyst, Joao Pedro has what it takes to make a big improvement on an already thriving Liverpool frontline.
Brighton & Hove Albion'sJoaoPedroin action with Manchester City's Ruben Dias and Abdukodir Khusanov
With Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota hoping to reprise their places in the Liverpool squad, this could be a dynamic addition to allow the team to do it all over again next year.
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Everton have steered away from relegation trouble over the past few months, the rise up the Premier League ladder owing to The Friedkin Group’s start to their ownership role and the squad’s response to David Moyes’ tactics.
Replacing Sean Dyche in January, Moyes has been nothing short of a revelation, restoring the feel-good factor and driving positive action ahead of the much-anticipated move to Bramley Moore at the end of the campaign.
It promises to be a busy summer for the Toffees; you could make a starting 11 from the first-team players out of contract in a few months, with a few even left over for the substitutes’ bench.
The future of Jarrad Branthwaite will be a major talking point, the star defender attracting attention from some of the Premier League’s finest. Whatever happens there, Everton are going to want a new centre-back or two.
Everton chasing new centre-back
As per Caught Offside, Everton are among the growing list of suitors for Inter Milan defender Yann Bisseck, though with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur also in the mix, it certainly won’t be an easy deal to complete.
Inter Milan's Yann Bisseck
Valued at €55m (about £47m), Bisseck has grown into a core part of Simeone Inzaghi’s season, neck and neck with Barcelona for a place in the Champions League final.
Inter view the 24-year-old as one of their most profitable players and would be open to doing business in the coming months.
Yann Bisseck could become Moyes' star man
With Michael Keane slated for a departure from Everton colours when his contract expires at the end of the season, there’s every chance that a player of Bisseck’s quality could be brought in – especially with James Tarkowski sidelined at the moment too.
Inter Milan's YannBisseckin action with AC Milan's Theo Hernande
Branthwaite will only be allowed to leave if a mammoth figure is paid out. Manchester United are known admirers of the England international, with Caught Offside revealing last month that a £50m proposal was being pieced together.
This puts the 22-year-old in a similar ballpark to Bisseck. They do approach the game with contrasting outlooks: Branthwaite is more of a steely threat on the ground, whereas the 6 foot 4 Inter star is a commanding aerial presence, winning 71% of his headed duels per Serie A game this season, as per Sofascore.
Having left Danish side Aarhus Gymnastikforening for the Nerazzurri for just €7m (£6m) plus bonuses in 2023, Bisseck has had to bide his time for chances to shine, only starting 13 league fixtures in total this term, but the impression he’s made emphasises the reasoning behind the Merseysiders striking a deal before their divisional rivals swoop in.
Moreover, he’s managed to make a good account of himself when given a chance to shine, with the attacking dimension and ball-playing advantage he would add to Moyes’ team something that stands out handsomely when alongside Branthwaite’s Premier League statistics since the start of the season.
Goal involvements
0.04
0.26
Touches
53.61
79.64
Passes attempted
41.57
69.80
Pass completion
81.6%
91.6%
Progressive passes
2.27
5.15
Progressive carries
0.39
1.89
Ball recoveries
3.19
3.65
Tackles + interceptions
2.31
1.96
Clearances
7.21
3.65
Blocks
1.16
0.98
The metrics are, of course, skewed somewhat by Bisseck’s role in an attacking outfit compared to Branthwaite’s settlement in Everton’s backline, operating as a counter-attacking team in the Premier League.
But the scope for a modern sheen would only widen with Bisseck in the mix, bearing the technical game that truly could see him stretch higher and higher toward a position as one of the Premier League’s finest.
Yan Bisseck for Inter Milan.
Described as a “diamond” of a defender by journalist Antonio Mango, Bisseck has the perfect blend of modern flair and deep-set defensive solidity that would see him fit right in as a fixed part of Moyes’ Everton backline.
Looking at the German’s statistics when ranked up against Branthwaite’s, it’s maybe not ludicrous to think that he could surpass the Toffees titan, be that as his central defensive partner or as his successor.
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David Moyes is looking to overhaul his Everton squad this summer.
Chelsea didn’t blow Everton away last time out in the Premier League but the 1-0 win on home soil was still crucial in the Blues’ bid to pick up a Champions League spot come the end of May.
Enzo Maresca’s men are flimsily holding onto fifth position in the current league standings, with Nottingham Forest only below the West Londoners on goal difference, meaning more wins need to be clinched across their last four clashes to possibly dine at Europe’s elite table.
Sealing a place in the esteemed Champions League would also enable Chelsea to attract some top stars through the door this approaching transfer window, with the Blues still insistent they can get one statement deal over the line to enhance their defensive options.
Chelsea remain in contact for "unbelievable" star
Much of the chatter from a defensive point of view in recent weeks when it comes to Chelsea has concerned Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen and Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi.
Yet, the Blues may not be content with just strengthening the centre of their backline with a new full-back being lined up.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Indeed, as per a report journalist Graeme Bailey, Chelsea remain in constant contact surrounding a deal for Barcelona’s star man at the back in Jules Kounde and would allegedly ‘love’ to sign him this summer.
The report further elaborates that Kounde’s future in Spain is up in the air, meaning Barca could soon cash in on the in-demand defender who has admirers in the form of Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool.
Fresh off scoring a late winner for Hansi Flick’s men in the Copa Del Rey final versus Real Madrid, the hope will be that the “unbelievable” 26-year-old – as he’s been described by his manager this season – can be the classiest right-back figure to grace the Stamford Bridge turf since Cesar Azpilicueta’s celebrated stint.
How Kounde could be Chelsea's best right-back in years
It’s clear from Maresca’s last team selection against the Toffees that a new, fresh right-back body is a priority, with Moises Caicedo the preferred option here over his regular midfield duties.
Therefore, everyone at Chelsea will be praying that Kounde’s potential arrival on the scene can be as impactful as Azpilicueta’s was back in 2012 when he left Olympique de Marseille behind for good.
Cesar Azpilicueta
Indeed, the current Atletico Madrid veteran went on to cement himself as a modern day great whilst at the Blues, with two Premier League title triumphs and one Champions League success major highlights of his lengthy 508-game stay.
Away from Chelsea’s trophy cabinet filling up with the 35-year-old a trusted member of the team, the Spaniard would also chip in with 17 goals and 51 assists as a constantly expansive and forward-thinking outlet down the right, with the new Blues target also unafraid to maraud forward for his side, away from completing his routine defensive duties.
Stat – per 90 mins*
Kounde
Games played
32
Goals scored
2
Assists
3
Touches*
79
Accurate passes*
50 (89%)
Big chances missed
3
Big chances created
6
Total duels won
4.2
Since the former club captain left London behind, it’s safe to say Chelsea have struggled to replace him with Malo Gusto exciting but raw and Reece James spending more time on the treatment table than he has on the grass.
As a result, Kounde would be a brilliant asset and one who can provide the goods in both penalty boxes too, having managed to amass a mightily impressive 12 goal contributions as an explosive option, with five of those coming across 32 La Liga clashes as Barca aim to become champions come the close of May.
With that in mind, the £51m-rated France international would be able to offer everything James can when he’s fully fit by offering goals and assists galore from defence.
Barcelona's Jules Kounde
Before any signings enter the building, however, Chelsea will need to be calm and composed in their hunt for a top-five finish in the Premier League, whilst their coveted target aims to sensationally pick up yet another trophy in the Champions League at Barca.
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With Kevin De Bruyne set to leave Manchester City in the summer, it will be fascinating to see who Pep Guardiola’s side decides to sign as his replacement. It will not be at all easy to find someone to step into De Bruyne’s shoes. He has 107 goals and 177 assists in 415 games for the club.
However, someone has to do it, and perhaps they look in-house for the solution. In that case, the answer might be Phil Foden, who has excelled as a number ten for City when given the chance to play there. He has 24 goals and 16 assists in 51 appearances in that role.
If City are to make a signing to replace De Bruyne, then Florian Wirtz might be the player they look to sign.
The latest in City’s pursuit of Wirtz
If there is one player who City really seem to want as their De Bruyne replacement, it is Germany and Bayer Leverkusen attacking midfielder Wirtz. According to a recent report from BILD, they are ‘keen to sign’ him along with Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.
Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz
Yet again, it has been quite an extraordinary season for Wirtz in 2024/25. A key part of Leverkusen’s invincible season last term, he has continued that form this season and has once again shone for Xabi Alonso’s team.
In 40 games across all competitions this season, the 21-year-old has managed 15 goals and 13 assists. That includes 20 goal involvements in 26 Bundesliga appearances.
With that in mind, it might not be a surprise to learn that the Germany international is so highly valued by Transfermarkt. They believe the 21-year-old is worth an eye-watering £120m; he could cost City a pretty penny if they want to sign him this summer.
Bayer Leverkusen forward Florian Wirtz
Incredibly, the reigning Premier League champions have someone worth even more than Wirtz, who has been a key part of their success in recent years.
The City player worth more than Wirtz
When you think of the crucial players for City in their 2022/23 treble-winning season, three names might spring to mind: De Bruyne, Rodri, or Erling Haaland. Well, the latter was arguably the key player in that famous season for the East Mancunians and has been deadly in front of goal during his City career.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
In 138 appearances for the club so far, the City number nine has an extraordinary 120 goals, along with 20 assists, to take his goals and assists per game ratio above one. He simply cannot stop scoring for City.
The Norway international has been deadly throughout the three years he has spent at City so far. However, one season stands out. His most prolific campaign was his first in Sky Blue, the treble-winning campaign, where Haaland managed 52 goals and nine assists.
This term, the 24-year-old has been in imperious form, although not to the levels he has previously shown. Haaland has only managed 30 goals and four assists in 40 games this term. They are the standards Haaland has set himself.
The Citizens centre-forward has superb underlying numbers from the last 365 days, too, courtesy of FBref. For example, he averages 0.87 goals per game, which ranks him in the top 3% of strikers in Europe.
Goals
0.87
97th
Shots
3.79
92nd
Shots on target
1.97
99th
Goals per shot
0.19
72nd
Expected goals
0.88
99th
With that in mind, hearing Haaland’s value is £171.4m according to Transfermarkt might not be a surprise. He is over £50m higher in transfer value than Wirtz, which shows just how well Haaland has done for City.
In many ways, their number nine is the original Wirtz. That is to say, an exciting young talent signed from the Bundesliga, who took to the Premier League like a duck to water.
As Statman Dave said, the Norwegian is “extraordinary”.
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When Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk decided to extend their contracts at Liverpool and put months of speculation pertaining to their futures to bed, they wanted reassurances that FSG mean to invest.
The veteran superstars are arguably the finest players in their respective positions worldwide, and despite Jurgen Klopp’s decision to step down from his long-held manager’s role last year, have enjoyed staggering success under Arne Slot to move within an inch of the Premier League title.
Liverpool stars Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah
Liverpool are Champions Elect, all but confirmed as this year’s English top-flight winners. It’s a remarkable feat, built upon the foundations laid by Klopp.
However, now is the time for Slot to put his own stamp on the Anfield side, with Federico Chiesa the sole arrival of his reign so far – goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili is expected to arrive this summer after a deal was agreed last year.
While Salah’s staying put and Liverpool are expected to prioritise the signing of a new centre-forward with Darwin Nunez expected to leave, there’s a good chance sporting director Richard Hughes will be tasked with signing a new wideman.
Liverpool need more quality on the wings
Make no mistake, Liverpool’s attacking force has been exactly that under Slot’s wing: a force to be reckoned with. However, with Nunez and Chiesa struggling and Jota enduring a disappointing season too, it’s understandable that the club wish to bolster.
Mohamed Salah
46
32
23
Cody Gakpo
43
16
6
Luis Diaz
45
15
8
Diogo Jota
32
9
4
Darwin Nunez
42
7
7
Federico Chiesa
12
2
2
The likes of Fabrizio Romano have confirmed that Nunez is set to leave this summer after Saudi side Al-Nassr failed with a series of bids in January, but Liverpool may also look out wide in spite of Salah’s contract renewal.
Indeed, Luis Diaz is in red-hot form at the moment but, aged 28 and entering the penultimate year of his contract, is also deemed expendable, should the right offer come in.
Of course, FSG aren’t going to want to let the Barcelona- and Saudi-linked star leave on the cheap, letting suitors know that they will field bids totalling €80m (£67m).
Liverpool forward Luis Diaz
Salah will be 33 by the time the 2025/26 season kicks off, and though Liverpool’s data analysts, some of the best in the business, are confident that the Egyptian King will continue firing true over the next two years, some more firepower wouldn’t go amiss.
When Salah does enter his twilight, Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka looks ready to take his mantle and assume the star spot as the Premier League’s most dangerous winger. Liverpool won’t want to let that happen, of course, and have actually identified their own version of the Three Lions superstar.
Liverpool step up interest in rising star
Liverpool are planning for a big summer, alright. If Diaz should leave, plans are being drawn for the transfer of Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens, one of the most coveted young wingers in Europe right now.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
According to Football Insider, FSG are actually accelerating their plans to sign the 20-year-old after sorting out Liverpool’s contractual obstacles, having been scouting him for a while. He is believed to be a “key target”, as per scout Mick Brown.
Dortmund recognise the value of their youngster, however, and have previously responded to links away by placing a whopping €100m (£85m) price tag on Gittens’ head. Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham have also registered interest.
Borussia Dortmund's Jamie Bynoe-Gittens in action
Liverpool aren’t likely to engage in such exorbitant demands, but if a more agreeable figure can be agreed, there’s every chance the Reds could secure one of the most exciting English talents around after identifying him as a key target.
What Jamie Gittens would bring to Liverpool
Gittens might still be in the fledgling stage of his professional career, but he’s already made quite the impression in Dortmund’s senior squad, following Jadon Sancho’s footsteps in moving to the German club from Manchester City’s youth academy.
Jamie Gittens for Borussia Dortmund.
The Yellow Wall have long been a hothouse for developing exciting talent and Gittens will hardly regret his decision, having already featured 102 times for the club.
The step-by-step progress he has shown will have pleased Liverpool’s scouts to no end, always regarded as an athletic, pacy and powerful winger but starting to sharpen his attacking tools, enjoying success as a proper goal threat this term.
24/25
44 (32)
12
5
23/24
34 (18)
2
8
22/23
20 (5)
3
1
21/22
4 (1)
0
0
This incremental growth does suggest that Gittens could match his compatriot Saka down the line, albeit in Liverpool’s shade of red.
As per FBref, Gittens ranks among the top 16% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for non-penalty goals scored, the top 7% for progressive carries and the top 1% for successful take-ons per 90.
This perfectly illustrates his blend of physicality and potency, something that perhaps Saka, 23, performs without rival at the moment.
Arsenal dispatched Real Madrid over two legs to advance to the semi-finals of the Champions League, and Saka was the star forward at the Santiago Bernabeu, his chipped goal taking his haul to 11 strikes and 14 assists across 29 matches this term.
So dangerous. So dynamic. The right-sided forward’s completeness is part of what makes him such an incredible, highest-class footballer, but Gittens truly has the skills to match him.
The Dortmund man has also been impressive in the Champions League this year, hailed by Romano for one “special” performance against Club Brugge in the group stage, scoring two goals.
The rising star’s technical quality suggests he can go all the way, and under Slot’s wing at Liverpool, maybe he can take the next steps toward rivalling Saka for the position as England’s prized winger.
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