All posts by h716a5.icu

It was another miserable game for Tottenham Hotspur last night.

Ange Postecoglou’s side travelled to Stamford Bridge hoping to turn things around with what would have been an unlikely win, but instead of doing that, they practically handed Chelsea all three points.

It was an entirely lifeless performance from the North Londoners and one that could well seal the manager’s fate.

One of the worst displays came from James Maddison, who continues to frustrate in the middle of the park, which is something he might not be able to do for too much longer, as Hotspur Way is currently brewing the perfect replacement.

Maddison's frustrating Spurs career

When Tottenham completed the £40m signing of Maddison in the summer of 2023, there was plenty of understandable excitement from fans as he had just produced 19 goal involvements for a relegated Leicester City.

His initial form for the North Londoners justified this excitement as well as he produced eight goal involvements in his first ten league games for the club, but then he picked up an ankle injury against Chelsea, and when he returned in late January, the problems began.

Instead of being a game-changing midfielder, capable of controlling matches and tearing opposition defences to shreds, he became far more passive, lacklustre and simply ineffective, picking up just five goal involvements across his final 17 league appearances.

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast’s In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

This season has been just as frustrating, as while he has managed to score 11 goals and provide seven assists in just 39 games, he continues to put in incredibly inconsistent performances.

One week, he’s like the player we saw at the start of last season, and then in the next, he’s a total passenger.

We saw the latter in the game last night, as even though it was a derby between two teams and fanbases who do not like one another, he was practically anonymous in the middle of the park, coming off in the 81st minute with no goals or assists, having lost five out of five duels and with a combined expected goal and assists figure of just 0.11, which is nowhere good enough for the team’s creative hub.

It’s hard to see where Maddison goes from here, as nobody doubts his talent, but he is seemingly unable to produce consistently enough for a top side, and if he’s not careful, he could see himself replaced by one of the most exciting players currently in the academy.

The Spurs academy star who could replace Maddison

While Mikey Moore, Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray have all made a mark on the first team this season, we could see an even more exciting youngster do the same next year: Lucá Williams-Barnett.

The 17-year-old phenom is undoubtedly the most promising prospect in the academy at the moment and could be battling Maddison for a place as the midfield’s chief creator sooner rather than later.

Now, that might sound like hyperbole, but we really don’t think it is, as in just 17 appearances this season, totalling 1375 minutes, the young maestro has already amassed a frankly absurd haul of 18 goals and nine assists.

Appearances

17

Starts

16

Minutes

1375′

Goals

18

Assists

9

Goal Involvements per Match

1.58

Minutes per Goal Involvement

50.92′

That means he is currently averaging 1.58 goal involvements every game, or one every 50.92 minutes, which is the sort of incredible output that could and really should see him introduced into the first team next season.

Moreover, the Luton-born gem is also incredibly versatile and has made appearances in left midfield, on both wings and even up top, leading to academy expert and pundit John Wenham to describe him as a “cheat-code.”

Ultimately, Maddison might still have one more season of being the team’s recognised ten purely down to the age of Williams-Barnett, but if he doesn’t massively improve soon, then the teenage sensation could take his spot in the coming years, and, based on his output in the academy, we wouldn’t be surprised to see that happen.

Walker repeat: Spurs in real danger of losing incredible £67m "monster"

The brilliant defender would be a massive loss for Spurs.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Apr 2, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur are being handed a boost in the chase for a key transfer target also wanted by Man City, with the player said to be considering a move to north London behind-the-scenes.

Tottenham face Nottingham Forest after Europa League triumph

Under-fire Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou was given some rare breathing room after his side put in a dogged display to overcome Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt in the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday.

Tottenham: Thierry Henry-like striker facing exit with Spurs ready to bid

The Lilywhites want to take full advantage.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 19, 2025

A penalty by Dominic Solanke was eventually enough to send the Lilywhites into their first Europa League semi-final since 1984, with Tottenham showcasing the much-needed mature defensive qualities which they’ve lacked all campaign.

Nottingham Forest (home)

April 21st

Liverpool (away)

April 27th

West Ham (away)

May 3rd

Crystal Palace (home)

May 10th

Aston Villa (away)

May 18th

Postecoglou’s future remains in the balance, but the Australian could still make good on his promise of always winning silverware during his second season in charge.

A tough test in Bodo/Glimt awaits Tottenham in the semis, and despite their minnow status, they cannot be taken lightly – having just knocked out Serie A giants Lazio.

“From our perspective, we’ve had a difficult season and I think there’s some reasoning behind that. It was pretty evident that when we’ve got our strongest team out there, a lot of things we’ve suffered with this year I’m sure we wouldn’t have,” said Postecoglou on Tottenham’s chances of winning the Europa League.

“The spine of our team, at times we’ve been missing Vicario, Romero, Van de Ven, Bentancur, Solanke, all of them we’ve been missing at different times this year.

“We’ve got the whole group. It’s not just them, it’s the whole group together. We know that we can be a team that’s pretty compelling against anybody. We’re in the final four now, so we’ve given ourselves a chance.”

Before their all-important battle against the Norwegians, which could make or break their season, Spurs have two tough Premier League tests in Nottingham Forest and champions elect Liverpool.

Postecoglou will be looking to maintain the positive mood around N17 after their quarter-final triumph, and hopefully not add more top flight defeats to their record after already losing 17 this term.

Hugo Larsson now considering move to Tottenham this summer

Summer transfer targets will also be keeping a keen eye on Tottenham’s end to the season, and one of them is believed to be Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Larsson.

The versatile Sweden midfielder is a mainstay for Dino Toppmoller’s side, racking up 40 appearances in all competitions, and he’s done enough to earn himself a £50 million price tag and interest from Man City (Pete O’Rourke).

However, according to GiveMeSport, the 20-year-old is also a wanted man at Spurs. As per their sources, Larsson is privately considering a move to Tottenham, so he’s fully aware of their interest, and it is claimed that Postecoglou’s side are now “increasingly confident” they can tempt him to N17 as a result.

Predominantly a defensive midfielder, the Scandinavian starlet has already drawn comparisons with Rodri, and Football Analyst Ben Mattinson believes Larsson is “one of the most exciting talents” to come out of Sweden in recent years.

However, Chelsea are also believed to be in race for Larsson, so there is plenty of competition.

Manchester United have a huge task this summer to change their fortunes and avoid a repeat of the 2024/25 Premier League season, which currently sees them occupy a place in the bottom half.

Ruben Amorim’s appointment back in November was seen as a decision to save their campaign, but he’s been unable to transform the situation with just five games remaining.

It’s evident that new additions and first-team sales are needed to hand the manager the best chance of making amends and potentially taking them closer to the top four once again.

With the summer window around the corner, it would be a surprise to no one that the foundations are already being laid ahead of a crucial off-season that could define the 40-year-old’s period in charge.

One position is in desperate need of attention, given the lack of quality in such a department, with moves already being explored for numerous targets.

The latest on United’s pursuit of a new striker

Whilst Matheus Cunha is the player on everyone’s lips after expressing his desire to move to Old Trafford this summer, he’s not the only target linked with a move.

Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen has also emerged on their shortlist in recent days, with the 26-year-old expected to depart Napoli after spending the year on loan at Galatasaray.

However, David Ornstein confirmed yesterday that he’s now off the club’s radar ahead of the summer, with Amorim and the board pursuing other potential targets.

Such a decision could lead to a move for Atalanta striker Mateo Retegui, who’s set Serie A alight this season, registering 23 league goals in his 31 appearances to date.

According to TuttoAtalanta, the Red Devils have already made concrete steps to start talks over a potential move for his signature during the summer window.

Indeed, contact has been established between the Red Devils and the player’s agents to ascertain whether a move would be possible this summer.

It won’t be too costly a move either, with previous reports suggesting Atalanta have set an asking price of around £50m.

Why United’s latest target would be better than Osimhen

There’s no denying that United need reinforcements at the top end of the pitch ahead of 2025/26, with the options currently at the club simply not at the level required to succeed.

Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund have often shared the responsibility as the side’s focal point, but have only registered a combined tally of six league goals between them this campaign.

The latter even went 21 games without a goal in all competitions during the winter months, highlighting the need for investment over the summer – with Retegui certainly a better option than Osimhen for the Red Devils.

When comparing the Italian’s stats with those of the Nigerian, he’s massively outperformed him in numerous key areas, finally offering the club that clinical box striker they’ve greatly craved in recent months.

Retegui, who is said to possess a “thunderous strike” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has managed to outscore Osimhen in their respective leagues, whilst also achieving a higher goal per 90 rate – showcasing his clinical nature within the final third.

Games played

31

25

Goals scored

23

21

Goals per 90

1.05

0.90

Goals per shot on target

0.7

0.3

Pass accuracy

78%

66%

Chances created

1.4

1.2

Times caught offside

0.2

1.3

He’s also completed more of the passes he’s attempted to date, creating more chances per 90 – having the ability to provide opportunities for those around him, making him the perfect all-round number nine in Amorim’s system.

He may not be the glamorous name that the supporters were expecting this summer, but from the stats produced, it’s evident that the 25-year-old has all the tools to be a hit in Manchester should he move.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for Retegui would set the hierarchy back, it’s a move that would hand the manager the ammunition he’s desperately craved since his arrival in November.

If the side are to progress and make the huge jump back towards the summit of the division in 2025/26, a new talisman simply has to be on the agenda, with the Atalanta star needing to be their main target ahead of the upcoming window.

Best signing since Bruno: Man Utd pushing to land "best ST on the market"

Man Utd are in desperate need of a new centre-forward this summer

ByRobbie Walls Apr 24, 2025

As rival fans have been so intent on reminding the Arsenal faithful in recent weeks, this season is yet another that the team are set to finish second in the Premier League.

Instead of Manchester City, it’s Liverpool who have pipped them to the post this time, although, with the Reds now 15 points ahead, it’s not been all that close.

Frustratingly, Mikel Arteta’s side still have the best defence in the competition, so the failure to finally get over the line once again falls at the feet of their faltering attack, which has scored 14 fewer goals than the Champions.

So, with it clear where the club need to strengthen in the summer, it’s hardly been a surprise to see endless reports linking them to some of the most exciting strikers around, such as Viktor Gyokeres and, previously, Alexander Isak.

However, if recent reports are to be believed, Andrea Berta and Co could now be looking at a cheaper alternative to the former, who is currently outscoring the latter.

Arsenal's striker search

Arteta and Co’s desire to sign Isak is hardly a secret, and considering he’s racked up a brilliant haul of 26 goals and six assists in 39 games this season, it’s hardly surprising either.

Transfer Focus

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

However, with a price tag that could exceed £150m, it’s a transfer that looks like it’s not going to happen anytime soon.

Gyokeres, on the other hand, feels a little more realistic.

The Sporting CP monster has been in absurd form this season, scoring 52 goals and providing 12 assists in 48 games, and it looks like he could be available for around £70m.

Yet, even then, that’s a lot of money to spend on a single player if the Gunners want to improve other areas of the squad as well, which might explain the links to Daizen Maeda.

According to a recent report from journalist Graeme Bailey, Arsenal are one of several teams interested in the Celtic star.

Alongside the Gunners, the report revealed that Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and other Premier League sides have watched the Japanese international this year.

While the level of competition for the attacker is far from ideal, the fact he could be available for a fee of just £25m is undoubtedly positive news.

It might not be a transfer that excites the fans, but given his price tag and his incredible output, it might be one worth fighting for.

Why Arsenal might want to sign Maeda

The first thing to say is that we aren’t claiming that Maeda is a better player than Isak or Gyokeres, but there are certainly a few arguments for why Arsenal might want to sign him over the latter.

Obviously, the first reason is the price, as at just £25m, the Japanese international’s arrival would conceivably allow the club to go big on at least one or two other attacking players to completely rejuvenate the entire frontline.

However, saving money is not going to excite the fans, so what are the tangible reasons that the Gunners may opt to pull the trigger on him?

Well, first and foremost, he’s proven himself to be a lean, mean output machine north of the border.

For example, this season alone, he has racked up an unreal tally of 33 goals and 11 assists in just 47 first-team appearances, totalling 3711 minutes of action.

Appearances

47

39

Minutes

3711′

3054′

Goals

33

26

Assists

11

6

Goal Involvements per Match

0.93

0.82

Minutes per Goal Involvement

84.34′

95.43′

That means the Osaka-born “physical beast,” as dubbed by former boss Ange Postecoglou, is averaging a goal involvement every 1.06 games, or every 84.34 minutes, and on top of that, he’s outscoring Isak.

Moreover, he’s a versatile attacker and can play off either wing or straight down the middle, and if we know anything about Arteta, it’s that he appreciates players who are comfortable in more than one position.

Ultimately, while Gyokeres would be the more exciting signing, Maeda still looks like he’d be a fine addition to the Gunners attack, and if he can replicate even half of his form north of the border in the capital, then the Emirates might finally see the Premier League trophy next season.

He'd revive Odegaard: Arsenal racing to sign £70m goalscoring "powerhouse"

Martin Odegaard could do with some additional firepower with him at Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 1, 2025

Whether or not you agree on the matter that Arsenal have regressed this season, there is one undeniable statement that no one can argue with.

The Gunners need more firepower to take them to the next level in the 2025/26 campaign.

Just over a year ago when Mikel Arteta’s men were dumped out of the Champions League by Bayern Munich, there was an admission that Arsenal were lacking a bit in the forward department. That was even with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.

A year later, they travelled to Paris, seeking to reach their first Champions League final since 2006. Unsurprisingly, they exited the competition. Arteta and skipper Martin Odegaard spoke after the game about how the tie was won in both boxes. PSG were better in those areas, and there was once again an admission they didn’t have much in attack.

“Usually in the box there are strikers”, Arteta remarked, noting how Arsenal have been forced to play with Mikel Merino up top instead of the injury-stricken Jesus and Havertz.

A year on from their previous exit from the competition, somehow their forward line looked even worse. If they are to progress next term, then signing more forwards is of utmost importance.

How Arsenal could strengthen their forward line

Name an attacker, and it’s likely they’ve been linked with Arsenal in recent weeks and months.

Of course, the number one priority for Arsenal is Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, with the BBC’s Sami Mokbel revealing only a few days ago that he is ‘the dream target’. Yet, as we know, any move is complicated by the Magpies’ astronomical asking price.

As such, Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko are two alternatives. In short, Arsenal have no excuse given the number of options out there on the market this summer.

It’s not just in that centre-forward Berth where Arteta needs recruits. Despite talk of an extended contract for Leandro Trossard in recent days, they need improvement on the left wing and once more, there are a plethora of options.

Transfer Focus

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

Arsenal are reportedly the favourites to sign Borussia Dortmund’s English winger Jamie Gittens while their dream target in this position, according to the Daily Mail, is Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams.

But there’s a spicy alternative in the form of AC Milan’s Rafael Leao, who the Mail reported on Saturday is on the club’s shortlist.

A separate report from Italy has also spoken of Arsenal’s interest in the Portuguese forward.

They claim that while Chelsea are also in the running and have been in contact with the Serie A side, Arsenal have entered the race now too, ‘taking information’ on the player as they prepare a move.

It’s reported that new sporting director Andrea Berta has personally placed him on the club’s shortlist as one of his first pieces of business.

With Arsenal needing to recruit a few big-name players this summer, one sticking point could be Leao’s €100m (£85m) valuation.

How Rafael Leao would improve Arsenal

Arsenal need a winger and they need one ASAP. Take one look at the PSG tie and the difference in wing play, most notably on the opposite side to Bukayo Saka was stark.

While Arteta had an uncertain Gabriel Martinelli there, spurning chances and failing to get the better of Achraf Hakimi, the Parisiens had Georgian superstar Kvicha Kvaratskhelia. A demonic presence in attack, his relentless speed, close control, and dribbling ability make him an absolute nightmare for any defender. He’s unpredictable and boasts the talent to go on either side.

It’s something that, Saka aside, Arsenal don’t have much of: unpredictability.

In Leao, they’d be finding that. The scorer of 12 goals and the assister of 13 so far this season, in the words of data analyst Ben Mattinson, the left winger is “absolutely perfect for game-breaking moments” and he’s also “a winger who brings fear to defences.” In that sense, he’s a lot like the aforementioned Kvaratskhelia.

But, there’s another mighty fine comparison we want to touch on here. Back in 2022, Milan coach Stefano Pioli said: “Leao reminds me a lot of the early Thierry Henry, who started wide then came inside.”

Well, as far as Arsenal fans are concerned, it surely doesn’t get much better than that? Henry left the Gunners behind as their club-record scorer and they’ve been searching, dreaming of finding someone with similar traits.

Like Henry, Leao has an incredible burst of pace and boasts a similiar languid playing style to Henry that gave them the opportunity to use their long strides to glide past players. Interestingly, they both stand at 6 foot 2, only emphasising the comparison further.

They’ve got that same trademark style as well. Milan’s star winger loves to race down the left before cutting inside onto his favoured right foot. While Martinelli has tried to learn that attribute, he still leaves plenty to be desired, as the numbers indicate.

Goals

0.31

0.31

Assists

0.31

0.18

Key passes

2.27

1.63

Progressive passes

3.61

2.07

Shot-creating actions

4.43

2.91

Successful take-ons

2.31

1.41

Progressive carries

4.82

4.93

Carries into final 3rd

2.78

1.32

Aerial duels won

1.02

0.66

Looking at the metric above it’s perhaps unsurprising to leave that Leao, aged 25, is two years older than Martinelli, but this difference in quality is why Arsenal need to sign a new winger.

The Portugal international may boast the same goalscoring ability but he’s far more creative and, as we can see from the carrying numbers, he’s far more likely to not only get at the defence, but he’s more likely to succeed in doing so. As Mattinson says, he’s a truly scary proposition.

Arsenal’s biggest priority this summer must be signing a striker but in Leao, they’d be able to get their hands on one of the best left wingers in Europe.

Vini & Yamal hybrid: Arsenal could sign 'one of the world's best dribblers'

The brilliant winger would be unreal for Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 10, 2025

On Sunday, Arsenal defeated Newcastle United 1-0, and after the game, with it being their final home match of 2024/25, it gave the supporters a chance to say farewell to some players who are unlikely to be seen again in red and white.

Kieran Tierney will bow out of the Emirates Stadium, set to head back to Celtic, after a haul of 143 appearances for the north Londoners.

Jorginho, too, will depart at the end of his contract. While he perhaps won’t be remembered as fondly as Tierney, his ultimate professionalism across the two years he’s been at Arsenal has been a joy to behold.

It will be sad to see them go, but it certainly wasn’t as emotional as some farewells we’ve given in the modern era.

Arsene Wenger’s exit in 2018 will go down in history, while it’s hard to forget the tears a certain Aaron Ramsey shed when leaving under Unai Emery in 2019.

Since his exit, Arsenal haven’t had too many goalscoring midfielders. That said, they may well have found one now.

What made Aaron Ramsey so special

A winner of three FA Cups, a scorer of two cup final goals at Wembley, Ramsey will forever be remembered in these parts as a big game player, an icon who overcame so much adversity.

The way he entered the club rather set the tone for his dramatic time in the English capital. Manchester United had announced he was set to sign for them on their official website, only for the Welshman to pen terms with Arsenal instead.

Signed from Cardiff, it didn’t take Ramsey long to make an impression, but that horrific leg break against Stoke in February 2010 was a colossal setback.

After several months out, the Wales international fortunately went on to have a wonderful career in the game.

Who can forget that remarkable season in 2013/14? Ramsey scored the winner in extra time of the FA Cup final against Hull City, one of 16 goals in just 34 outings throughout the campaign.

A true box-to-box star, the Wales international became a master of arriving late in the penalty area and scoring from midfield.

Since then, however, Arsenal haven’t had too many players capable of finding the net from similar zones, ghosting into the area.

Perhaps the last was Granit Xhaka. In the Swiss’ final year with the Gunners, he scored on nine occasions and registered a further seven assists in 47 matches.

So, how have Arsenal gone about replacing the dynamic duo?

Arsenal's new Granit Xhaka and Aaron Ramsey

The form of Martin Odegaard a few years ago certainly suggested he could replace the pair. Indeed, during 2022/23, no midfielder scored more than the Norwegian’s 15 in the Premier League.

That being said, he isn’t a box-to-box midfielder. He presses hard, but he doesn’t do the dirty work further back in the field.

Instead, Mikel Arteta’s modern-day answer to Ramsey and Xhaka is a certain Declan Rice. Oh, where would the Gunners be without him this season?

Of course, you’ve got those two remarkable free-kicks against Real Madrid, but he’s also come up with some vital moments elsewhere.

He’s not just a master of free-kicks, but his corner delivery has been one of the best in Europe this season. We salute Nicolas Jover for putting the former West Ham man on set-pieces towards the back end of last season.

Funnily enough, Rice initially signed as a defensive midfielder but throughout 2024/25, he’s been largely selected as the left-sided 8 and it’s a position he’s made his own.

2021/22

50

5

4

2022/23

50

5

4

2023/24

51

7

10

2024/25

51

9

10

The difference was felt in the first leg of Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final tie with PSG. The £240k-per-week earner had destroyed Madrid across both legs from a more advanced role in midfield but due to Thomas Partey’s suspension, he had to play further back.

While Rice is certainly excellent at sitting in front of the defence, Arsenal couldn’t get up the pitch as quickly and they also lost one of their goal threats. That perhaps explains why the club reportedly want to bring in Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi this summer. More of a Jorginho type, the Spaniard would give Rice the keys to make that no.8 spot his permanent position in the team.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

So, why has he thrived so much? Well, like Xhaka, he’s got a terrific engine and his technique is first-class.

Meanwhile, like Ramsey, he’s becoming rather good at arriving late in the area or on the edge of the box to score a goal. In the words of Arsenal writer Connor Humm, he is a true “monster.”

We saw that first-hand against Newcastle on Sunday. Odegaard found the ball on the right-hand side and laid it into the path of Rice, who was ready and waiting on the edge of the penalty area to fizz the ball past Nick Pope.

That was the £105m signing’s ninth strike of the campaign, one that equalled Xhaka’s haul of two years ago. It also marked Rice’s best-ever goalscoring return in a single season. Not bad at all.

When Arsenal’s Player of the Season is announced in the forthcoming weeks, there are surely only two candidates: Gabriel and Rice. For that magical night against Madrid alone, Rice is our man.

Their own Isak: The "best finisher in the world" wants to sign for Arsenal

Arsenal may not sign Alexander Isak this summer, but they could still sign their own version.

ByMatt Dawson May 19, 2025

Nottingham Forest have exceeded expectations this season and could be about to launch an ambitious bid in the transfer window for a renowned Premier League operator, according to a report.

Nottingham Forest look forward to exciting summer

Nuno Espirito Santo has restored his reputation as one of the most underrated coaches in the Premier League after guiding Nottingham Forest to continental qualification at the City Ground.

Coming as a surprise to many in footballing circles, their culture of shrewd investments and building a side capable of going the extra mile is likely to be key once again as they enter the market in pursuit of new recruits.

Fitting the bill, Nottingham Forest have lined up an exciting move for Dinamo Zagreb midfielder Martin Baturina to help bolster their chances of encountering another fine campaign next time around.

Coming in for a potential fee of £21 million, the Croatia international’s arrival would be a major signal of intent in light of an 18-goal contribution season in his homeland.

On the same token, Lazio forward Taty Castellanos is also said to be on Nottingham Forest’s radar amid news that he could be available to depart the Stadio Olimpico should a suitable offer for his services come forward.

Nottingham Forest now evaluating summer move to sign "superb" Serie A star

He could become the heir to Chris Wood’s Forest throne.

ByTom Cunningham May 22, 2025

West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers will provide competition, but the Tricky Trees will feel confident they can prevail due to their European status. Undoubtedly, rival suitors for key targets will present a challenging market space for every ambitious manager looking for fresh blood.

Either way, Nottingham Forest have found plenty of diamonds over the past few years, so it won’t come as a surprise to hear that they are now in the mix for another talented operator.

Nottingham Forest line up surprise £35m Matheus Nunes deal

According to The Sun, Nottingham Forest are lining up a move for Manchester City star Matheus Nunes amid the Citizens’ pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White that could see the England international head in the opposite direction. It is added that City are ready to cut their losses on Nunes and value him at £35m.

Espirito Santo is a ‘big fan’ of the Portuguese central midfielder, who has also operated as a right-back this term due to a shortage of options at Pep Guardiola’s disposal.

Matheus Nunes for Manchester City in 2024/25 – all competitions

Appearances

38

Goals

4

Assists

10

Trophies

FA Community Shield winner

Despite a disappointing campaign for Manchester City as a whole, his impressive goal contribution tally lends some credence to the notion that Nunes could replace Gibbs-White if the latter were to depart this summer.

Labelled “special” by Guardiola, it is believed that the former Wolves man could be a useful ‘bargaining chip’ in any cross-negotiations, potentially feeding into the scope for a PSR-friendly agreement to be found between all parties.

Nevertheless, time will tell on that front. Nottingham Forest have emerged as one of the more ambitious forces in English football of late, and securing Nunes on a permanent basis would heighten their status in that bracket.

Newcastle United have made contact with the agents of a teenage talent in France who is also wanted by Liverpool, according to a new report.

Newcastle trying to address defensive issues ahead of the new season

After a season out of European football, the Magpies can now look forward to the 2025/26 campaign knowing they are back in the Champions League. Strengthening in the forward areas seems to be a high priority for Eddie Howe and co. this summer, but addressing their defence will also be on their list of jobs.

Newcastle now eye deal for "world-class" 28 y/o who Barcelona want to sign

There have been a new development.

1 ByHenry Jackson Jun 3, 2025

Jamaal Lascelles is out of contract at the end of this month and looks set to leave, while their remaining defensive options are all in their 30s, excluding the seemingly injury-stricken Sven Botman.

Fabian Schar and Dan Burn are both 33, and given the Magpies are going to be dealing with Champions League football now, Howe is going to want more fresh legs, as the games will come thick and fast next season.

Newcastle have already been linked with one defender in the past week, as they have joined Aston Villa in the race to sign Amir Murillo from Marseille. The Magpies hope the fact they are in Europe’s biggest competition and Villa are not will help them sign Murillo, who is said to be valued at around £21 million. Meanwhile, last month it was reported that Newcastle had made contact with AC Milan over a move to sign centre-back Malick Thaw.

Newcastle contact agents of teenage defender

The options for a new centre-back don’t stop there for the Magpies, as according to Moroccan outlet Le360 Sport, via Sport Witness, Newcastle have met with Stade Rennais defender Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal over a move to St James’ Park.

The report states that the Magpies and Liverpool are both interested in signing the 19-year-old defender this summer. That despite the fact that Aït Boudlal has yet to play a senior game for Stade Rennais and played just nine times for Amiens while on loan there for the last six months of the season.

The centre-back, who can also play left-back, has already met with Newcastle, but he has an offer on the table, and it’s not from the Magpies. Liverpool are said to have made a concrete offer to sign Aït Boudlal, but it is unclear how much that offer is. The 19-year-old’s options don’t stop in England either, as OGC Nice as well as two teams from La Liga are also keeping a close eye on his situation.

Apps

9

Starts

8

Assists

1

Big chances created

1

Interceptions per game

0.7

Tackles per game

1.6

Balls recovered per game

3.6

Clearances per game

7.9

Duels won per game (success)

4.4 (58%)

It’s unclear how much Stade Rennais would want for their defender, but according to Transfermarkt, Aït Boudlal is valued at around £420,000, which is a fee that both Newcastle and Liverpool would have no problem paying. Newcastle may not see Aït Boudlal as a player who will instantly become a regular in their team, but he is someone who could learn on the fringes, with the hope of becoming a top defender in the next couple of years as Howe’s current options decline.

Manchester United have held talks with the entourage of a “world-class” striker, who is now keen to seal a move to the Premier League, according to a report.

Man Utd set sights on new striker

Man United have already signed Matheus Cunha, while Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo remains of interest, but there is clearly a determination to bring in a new out-and-out centre-forward this summer, with an approach being made for Viktor Gyokeres.

That is according to Sky Sports, with United now said to be exploring the conditions of a potential deal, given that manager Ruben Amorim is a “big fan” of his former player.

Reports from elsewhere have suggested the Red Devils are preparing a bid for Gyokeres, but it remains to be seen whether the 27-year-old would be keen on a move to Old Trafford, considering European football will not be on offer next season.

The Sweden international is not the only option on the shortlist either, with Man United also holding talks with the entourage of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, according to a report from The Boot Room.

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Osimhen is said to be determined to seal a move to the Premier League this summer, having rejected a move to the Saudi Pro League, and Amorim’s side engaged in discussions to bring the Nigerian to Old Trafford last month.

The centre-forward has no future with his current club, meaning he is expected to move on this summer, with Liverpool also in the race for his signature. The 26-year-old is protected by a relatively hefty £63m release clause, however, Napoli could accept an offer in excess of £50m.

"World-class" Osimhen could be real coup for Man Utd

The former Galatasaray loanee’s track record speaks for itself, having scored goals wherever he’s been over the past few seasons, most recently leading his side to the Turkish Super Lig title with a phenomenal return.

Season

League appearances

Goals

2020-21

24

10

2021-22

27

14

2022-23

32

26

2023-24

25

15

2024-25

30

26

The Lagos-born striker has been lauded as “world-class” by football writer Matt Barlow, and he picked up six goals and two assists in the Europa League last season, indicating that he has a lot left to give in Europe, so it is little wonder he turned down a move to Saudi Arabia.

Rasmus Hojlund has recently suggested he is going nowhere this summer, saying: “I have a contract until 2030, so I expect to play for Manchester United. I’m looking forward to going on a summer vacation, and then I’m fully dedicated to the project that’s underway.”

However, with the Dane scoring just four Premier League goals last season, it would make sense to bring in an upgrade this summer, and Osimhen has proven he could be exactly that.

Despite finishing as low as 15th in the Premier League last season and missing out on every European competition, Manchester United’s exciting summer transfer window could be set to continue amid reports that one target has made a shock U-turn.

Mbeumo set to undergo Man Utd medical

After submitting an offer in excess of £60m, Manchester United have taken a vital step closer to signing Mbeumo, who is now reportedly scheduled to undergo a medical at the club as early as next week. The Brentford forward, like Cunha, is a transformative signing for Ruben Amorim’s frontline which was often found wanting last season.

Ahead of the biggest move of his career yet, Mbeumo has already received the backing of Manchester United legend Gary Neville, who spoke about the impact that both he and Cunha could make at Old Trafford.

He told Sky Sports: “[Man United] need players who are going to come in and hit the ground running. United has become a very difficult place for new signings to operate in the last ten years.

“Cunha and Mbeumo have obviously got Premier League experience. They’ve got plenty of games under their belt. [English football] is not new to them and actually they are the right type.

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“When I watch Manchester United wide players, they have to be able to get from box-to-box quickly. They have to be able to run, to travel with and without the ball. Mbeumo and, to be fair Cunha, can do that.”

Whilst the new attacking duo is no doubt impressive, INEOS may not be done there with incomings amid reports that one of their top targets has made a shock transfer U-turn.

Gyokeres now wants Man Utd move instead of Arsenal

In what could prove to be an almighty mistake, Arsenal’s increasing interest for Benjamin Sesko has re-opened the door for INEOS to make their best move yet at Old Trafford.

The Gunners have been chasing both strikers for weeks, laying groundwork and weighing their options, but according to The Mirror, INEOS and Manchester United are in contact to sign Viktor Gyokeres and the Swede now believes that a move to the Red Devils is his best option this summer.

The Swede’s departure from Sporting has become somewhat inevitable after his public spat with the Portuguese club and United should take full advantage of the forward’s desire to reunite with former boss Amorim.

The disagreement came to the fore when Sporting president Frederico Varandas accused Gyokeres’ agent of falsely claiming that there had been a gentleman’s agreement to sell the star striker for around £59m this summer. Instead, the Portuguese club have reportedly priced the Swede at as much as £86m – a price that his camp believe is too high to ensure a move in the coming months.

In today’s market though, Sporting may argue that a player who scored 54 goals in 52 games last season is worth every penny of that £86m fee. Whether Manchester United share that sentiment and sign a player who Sporting boss Rui Borges dubbed “phenomenal” remains to be seen, however.