All posts by h716a5.icu

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.

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.

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.

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.

Forget Garnacho: Man Utd must sell flop who's worth even more than Cunha

Man Utd could find a different solution to selling Alejandro Garnacho…

ByRobbie Walls May 29, 2025

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

He plays a lot like Wirtz: Liverpool plot huge move to sign £85m "magician"

Liverpool are ready to throw the kitchen sink at a marquee attacking signing this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 17, 2025

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.

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.

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.

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.

The next Barkley: Everton considering move for "unbelievable" £15m star

David Moyes is looking to overhaul his Everton squad this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 2, 2025

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.

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.

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.

Better than Madueke: Chelsea now in talks to sign "England's best winger"

Chelsea are looking to sign one of Europe’s most talented young wingers this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 28, 2025

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.

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.

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”.

He's like David Silva: Man City in talks for £100m De Bruyne replacement

Man City have held talks to sign one of the best players in Germany…

1 ByRoss Kilvington Apr 14, 2025

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 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).

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.

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.

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.

Liverpool have unearthed their new Wijnaldum & it's not Mac Allister

Liverpool have found their new version of Georginio Wijnaldum and it is not Alexis Mac Allister.

ByDan Emery Apr 16, 2025

Arsenal could now swoop fast for a bargain forward signing after getting advice from a top former Real Madrid scout behind-the-scenes, according to an intriguing new report.

Arsenal set for season-defining Champions League tie against Real Madrid

Mikel Arteta called tonight’s clash with Real in the Champions League his biggest-ever game in management, which highlights the serious importance of their two-legged tie against the European champions.

£77m striker now gives Arsenal move green light after talks with Berta

A “lethal” striker has now said yes to signing for the Gunners, with Andrea Berta playing a key role in convincing him.

3 ByDominic Lund Apr 6, 2025

With nothing left to play for domestically and Liverpool on course to become Premier League champions, all eyes are on whether Arsenal can make history and upset Carlo Ancelotti’s Champions League heavyweights.

Brentford (home)

April 12th

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

April 23rd

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

If Arsenal can knock Real out of the competition, they could even be considered favourites to win their first-ever Champions League title, and Arteta is taking tonight’s first leg very seriously.

“100%”, said Arteta when asked if their first game against Real is his biggest night in management.

“A joy to prepare the game, to look at them, just to look at the reaction of people and how we feel about ourselves coming into a game of this magnitude. The excitement around the club, the people, this is the stage that we want to be and where Arsenal has to be consistently. We are very proud to be there and now we’re very ready tomorrow to deliver.

“I think we deserve it [luck] but we have to earn it, and we have to earn it again tomorrow evening. We’re going to put all the ingredients, everything that is in our hands to play the game that we want and to take the game in the direction that we want. In order to achieve that, we’re going to need our people playing every single ball with us and that’s going to make a huge difference, because that’s something that is really needed.”

Attention is also turning to Andrea Berta’s first summer transfer window as their new sporting director, and the Italian is being helped by ex-Real scout Paolo Xavier behind the scenes.

Arsenal could "move quickly" for Vasco de Gama starlet Rayan

That is according to TEAMtalk, who state Arsenal have now joined the race for Vasco de Gama sensation Rayan.

The Brazil Under-20 international is apparently a recommendation of Xavier, who formerly worked at the Bernabeu and is now a “top” scout at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal could “move quickly” for Rayan after also learning that the South American forward has a tantalising £15 million release clause written into his contract, with Xavier identifying him as a target and the north Londoners “seriously” considering a deal.

However, they will indeed have to act fast, as Tottenham, Liverpool, Brighton, Bayern Munich and Fiorentina are all believed to have the teenager on their radar.

Nottingham Forest are also believed to be expressing an interest in Rayan, so this could turn out to be a pretty hectic battle for his signature this summer.

Allrounder’s 19, three wickets and two catches proved too much for Originals, who are now bottom

ECB Media13-Aug-2025Welsh Fire 137 for 8 (Smith 26, Kohler-Cadmore 26, Tongue 3-25) beat Manchester Originals 112 (Buttler 57, Meredith 4-9) by 25 runsAussie pace bowler Riley Meredith cranked it up in front of a raucous Cardiff crowd, taking 4 for 9 as Welsh Fire defeated Manchester Originals by 25 runs.There were also three-fors for both Chris Green (3 for 19) and David Payne (3 for 14) as a brilliant fielding and bowling performance earned Fire a much deserved win.Bowling first, Originals got off to a flying start, Sonny Baker having Jonny Bairstow caught by Lewis Gregory at slip with his fifth ball.Fire reached 28 for 1 after the powerplay, 22 of the runs to Steve Smith, including a stunning six over point off Josh Tongue.Tongue soon got his revenge, seeing Smith caught behind for 26. Fire then lost Luke Wells to Scott Currie for 13, reaching 57 for 3 at the halfway point.Tongue returned to remove Abell (22) and Currie got rid of Saif Zaib (15), both caught behind by Jos Buttler, the Fire innings threatening to fizzle out at 108 for 6.Chris Green added some late impetus, striking two sixes in his nine-ball 19, as Fire closed on 137 for 8, Currie (3 for 21) and Tongue (3 for 25) the pick of the Originals’ attack.A brilliant burst of 3 for 6 from 10 balls by Riley Meredith saw the backs of Phil Salt (3), McKinney (10) and Mark Chapman (0), Salt spectacularly caught at deep backward-square by Green, as the Fire started well on top.Buttler began the counterattack, hitting Paul Walter for back-to-back boundaries, but the Fire struck a huge blow when they had Heinrich Klaasen (11) caught in the deep off Green.Buttler kept going, bringing up his fifty from 28 balls with a six off Green, but the off-spinner then struck twice, taking the key wickets of Buttler (57) and Gregory (21), both caught at deep midwicket by Abell, before Payne and Meredith cleaned up the tail.Meerkat Match Hero Chris Green said: “It was a lot of fun. The last two games here have been an amazing atmosphere. The support here in Cardiff has been fantastic and it was great to reward that support with a win here tonight.”Tommy Abell thought 130 was defendable, there was a bit of hold for the off-cutters for the seamers and a bit of hold for the spinners as well.”Riley Meredith was outstanding up front and probably should be standing here because I thought he broke the game open. The energy we had and the support we had tonight got us over the line and we go into a big game in London on Saturday.”

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.

Carlos Baleba's stance on leaving Brighton to join Man Utd How £100m Carlos Baleba now feels about leaving Brighton to join Man Utd

Will the Red Devils get their man?

1 ByHenry Jackson Nov 17, 2025

Manchester City picked up another three points in the Champions League with a 4-1 home win over German side Borussia Dortmund.

Pep Guardiola’s side scored twice in either half to propel themselves up to fourth in the table and maintain their unbeaten record.

City got into their groove pretty quickly at the Etihad Stadium. It took just 22 minutes for them to take the lead, with Phil Foden firing home from outside the penalty area into the bottom left corner.

Just seven minutes later, City had their second, and to nobody’s surprise, it was Erling Haaland who bagged the goal. Criminally, the Norwegian centre-forward was given acres of space in the box by his old side, slamming home his effort after Jeremy Doku pulled the ball back across the box.

Foden had his second goal just before the hour mark, once again tucking his effort into the bottom left corner. Dortmund pulled one back in the 72nd minute, but Rayan Cherki’s stoppage-time goal off the bench sealed the win for the Cityzens.

It was a strong showing from City, with Haaland and Foden two of the standouts for Guardiola’s side.

How Haaland and Foden downed Dortmund

Is there anyone who can stop Haaland? Well, his former side couldn’t, as he scored his 18th goal of the season in just 14 games. The striker, who captained City on the night, has bagged five times in the Champions League already this term.

His performance clearly impressed Simon Bajkowski, chief City journalist for the Manchester Evening News. He gave the Citizens number 9 a post-match rating of 8/10, and said his night’s work was “brilliant again.”

As for Foden, his two goals, which were carbon copies of each other, perfectly encapsulated what makes him so good.

Operating in the right half-space, the England international showed great technical ability to carve out both chances, which he took with great poise.

His stats from the game are a great reflection of how well he played. City’s number 47 was constantly involved, having 71 touches and creating three chances. He also worked hard off the ball, making five recoveries.

The City duo were standouts for Guardiola’s side on Wednesday, but one of their teammates also shone.

Man City star is as important as Foden & Haaland

Guardiola will surely be pleased to see such a big win against an opponent who could have proved to be a tough test. The performances from Haaland, Foden and Cherki off the bench are encouraging signs for the Citizens.

It was not just those three who impressed, though. Midfielder Tijjani Reijnders put in a strong showing at the Etihad Stadium. He set up both of Foden’s goals, pulling the strings from an advanced midfield position.

The Dutchman also has some impressive numbers from the game. Like Foden, Reijnders created three chances and looked after the ball well in midfield with a pass accuracy of 88%. He also won two out of three ground duels and made things tough for the visitors when they had the ball in the centre of the park.

Touches

41

Pass accuracy

88%

Passes completed

28/32

Opposition half passes completed

18/22

Ground duels won

2/3

Chances created

3

Assists

2

It was a superb performance from Reijnders, which stood out to Citizens fan page over on X, City Chief. They described it as a “masterclass” in the midfield, and said it was “easily his best performance in a City shirt so far.”

After a night’s work as good as that from the 27-year-old, it is easy to see why he can be as important as Haaland and Foden. He brings plenty of control and helps City sustain attacks.

On top of that, the Netherlands international has a good relationship with another great technical player, Foden. According to Squawka, it is the first time the England international has bagged twice in the Champions League match, and the first time Reijnders has assisted two in a game in the same competition.

That is surely no coincidence. That relationship, plus the creative influence and technical quality, Reijnders adds to the City side, makes him one of their most important players, as he showed against Dortmund.

Man City "monster" is closest thing Pep's had to Messi & it's not Cherki

Pep Guardiola has found his new Lionel Messi at Manchester City in pure “monster” and it is not Rayan Cherki.

ByBen Gray Oct 30, 2025