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Newcastle expected to land James Tarkowski

Newcastle United are closing in on a colossal signing as they head towards the summer transfer window…

What’s the talk?

The Mirror’s James Nursey has revealed that fellow Premier League side West Ham believe that he will be signing for the Magpies at the end of the season.

He is out of contract this year and it remains to be seen whether or not Burnley will be able to convince him to put pen to paper on fresh terms, which would force PIF to shell out a transfer fee for him.

Nursey Tweeted: “WHUFC end interest in free agent James Tarkowski as they expect him to go to Newcastle.”

Supporters will be elated

The Toon supporters will surely be elated by this news as Tarkowski would be a colossal signing for Eddie Howe’s team.

He is a proven Premier League performer who has been consistently brilliant at the back for a number of years at Turf Moor. Tarkowski has racked up 192 top-flight appearances for Burnley since their promotion in 2014 and has been a considerable part of their success in staying in the division for the past eight years.

His side are currently 17th and battling against the drop but have a better defensive record than nine other teams in the league. The centre-back has been key to this as he has averaged a superb SofaScore rating of 7.17 across 33 outings this term.

Tarkowski has won a whopping 68% of his individual duels and won 4.4 aerial battles per game. He has been a dominant force in defence and his form over the years proves that it has not been a fluke this year and that he is comfortable at this level.

The English defender has averaged a rating of 7.04 or higher in each of the last five Premier League seasons respectively. This shows that he has consistently delivered high-quality performances for Burnley and that is why he would be a colossus for Newcastle at the back as he knows how to perform in the English top flight and would be able to slot straight into the team.

Therefore, supporters will be elated by the prospect of Tarkowski lining up week-in-week-out for the Magpies next season. He can be a colossus at the heart of the back four and improve Howe’s defence, as no Toon centre-back has averaged a higher rating than 6.98 this season.

AND in other news, Howe now plotting £17m move for “terrific” machine, he’d be a “big influence” at NUFC…

Newcastle: Mills makes Wilson claim

Newcastle United could look to replace Callum Wilson in the upcoming summer transfer window, according to former Premier League defender Danny Mills. 

The lowdown: Wilson’s fitness woes

Signed from Bournemouth for £20m (Sky Sports) in 2020, the England international has scored 18 times in 43 appearances for the Magpies.

Despite those exploits in front of goal, the 30-year-old has also missed 36 matches through a variety of injury issues since arriving at St James’ Park.

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Currently nearing a return to full fitness following a lengthy period out with a calf problem, Mills believes that Eddie Howe may still be on the lookout for further reinforcements at the end of the season.

The latest: ‘Concern’ over Wilson’s Newcastle future

Speaking to Football Insider, regular talkSPORT contributor Mills suggested that neither Wilson nor January capture Chris Wood are able to lead the line for Newcastle in the long-term.

The former Leeds defender claimed: “I think he’s ahead of Chris Wood by some distance. It just depends on whether Newcastle decide he is fit enough to lead the line for the whole season.

“That’ll be the only reason they decide to move him well down the pecking order. Yes, they’ll be looking to strengthen – but if you can guarantee his fitness for the whole season, they’ll probably be looking for a backup.

“But he’s had his troubles with injury – and therefore I can see him finishing up as the backup for Newcastle next season.

“He isn’t going to be fit for a full season – and that’s the concern.”

The verdict: Signings needed

Whilst few could doubt the quality of Wilson – who was described as a ‘menace’ by Newcastle legend Alan Shearer following a 2-0 win against West Ham on his Magpies debut – a wretched run with fitness issues has shown no signs of relenting.

Capped four times by England, the £18m-valued ace would be the perfect foil for target man Wood in a two-pronged central attacking partnership.

However, with the New Zealand international struggling for goals following his mid-season arrival from Burnley and Wilson’s push for prolonged fitness, it seems that Howe will almost certainly be looking to add at least one striker in the summer.

In other news, NUFC are now eyeing a move for this former Sunderland ace

West Ham: Journalist shares big Hlozek news

Journalist Toby Cudworth, sharing news on Twitter and writing for 90min, has an interesting West Ham United transfer update involving Sparta Prague sensation Adam Hlozek.

The Lowdown: Kretinsky connection…

Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky, completing his purchase of a 27 per cent minority stake in West Ham late last year, has serious connections to Sparta as their co-owner and club president.

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This has lead to links to some of their key players, including Hlozek, with Kretisnky’s presence said to be a major factor in any potential Hammers deal to sign the exciting striker.

The Latest: Hlozek ‘offered’

Journalist Cudworth, sharing an update, now say that West Ham ‘must act fast’ as they’re now ‘offered’ a chance to bring in Hlozek by Kretinsky ahead of this window.

However, in the 90 min report, it is claimed that both manager David Moyes and head of recruitment Rob Newman ‘do not want to sign off’ on the move – opening the door for other interested clubs.

The Verdict: Interesting update…

The fact both Moyes and Newman are standing in the way of this move indicates that Hlozek isn’t particularly rated at Rush Green.

Given how threatening the 19-year-old has been in the last two years, combined with glowing plaudits, we find this quite interesting.

The Czech starlet has racked up 23 goals and 21 assists in the Fortuna Liga alone since the beginning of 2020/2021, pretty impressive numbers for such a young forward.

His manager Pavel Vrba has also called Hlozek an ‘exceptional striker’ with the likes of Juventus, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Premier League title-chasers Liverpool all credited with interest (90min).

The sky appears to be the limit for Sparta’s exciting ace with news of both Moyes’ and Newman’s disinterest coming as a surprise.

In other news: ‘Something special’ – Journalist says ‘massive player’ could be tempted to join West Ham, find out more here.

“True” – Agent confirms Arsenal want attacker after rumour he’ll ‘soon sign’

Arsenal are believed to be after one club’s standout attacker, with his representative now confirming the Gunners’ interest in signing him.

Arsenal linked with new attackers heading into 2026

Despite having just signed Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke and star striker Viktor Gyokeres in the summer — as part of their near-£270 million summer spending spree — links with new attacking options haven’t gone away.

Certain Arsenal forwards currently face an uncertain long-term future, with Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard both out of contract in 2027 as things stand, so that could be a key reason why sporting director Andrea Berta is thinking about adding another forward to Mikel Arteta’s ranks next year.

According to some reports, Arsenal have held talks with representatives of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande as the race intensifies for one of Europe’s most exciting teenage talents.

The 19-year-old Ivorian has enjoyed a sensational start to life in Germany, registering 11 goal contributions in his last 15 appearances across all competitions.

His explosive form has attracted elite suitors from across the continent, with Bayern Munich particularly aggressive in their pursuit of his signature, but Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atlético Madrid, PSG, Liverpool and Chelsea are also taking an interest.

Arteta says "really special" Arsenal star has been so good in training lately

The Spaniard is thrilled with him.

ByEmilio Galantini 3 days ago

However, given his seismic £88 million price tag, Berta may want to consider alternatives.

The north Londoners are believed to be keen on Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo too, with the Arsenal supporter (by his own admission) available for £65m through a release clause active in early January.

The Ghanaian has been one of the Premier League’s standout performers this season, making him an enticing prospect for the Gunners.

Juventus sensation Kenan Yildiz, meanwhile, has also attracted admiration from Arsenal amid his fantastic performances in Turin and ongoing contract uncertainty with the Italian giants.

The versatile Turkish forward represents another potential option as Berta continues exploring targets across multiple markets.

That being said, one player may arrive before any of the aforementioned crop.

According to Croatian media sources, Arsenal are ‘expected’ to strike a deal for HNK Rijeka star Toni Fruk, who will ‘soon sign’ for Arteta’s side with talks in ‘full swing’.

Agent confirms Arsenal interest in Toni Fruk

Now, as per his own agent, Andy Bara, that interest in the 24-year-old has now been confirmed.

Bara is quoted telling news outlet 24 Sata that Arsenal do indeed want to sign Fruk, but he also denies any concrete talks or negotiations happening behind-the-scenes right now.

The versatile forward, who can operate both as a number 10 and centre-forward, has been a revelation for Rijeka this season, bagging 10 goals in all competitions already.

Fruk’s performances have also impressed talent-spotters from the likes of AC Milan and Liverpool, with the ex-Fiorentina talent also out of contract in 2027 and potentially available for a bargain fee.

Fruk has also been described as the Croatian National League’s ‘best’ footballer and ‘most valuable’ player (Sport Klub), while others dubbed him a ‘new’ version of Luka Modrić.

Comparisons to the Real Madrid legend are a clear indicator of just how highly-rated he is in that part of Europe, with Rijeka’s talisman now turning heads in the Premier League.

Gareth Southgate's two Man Utd demands to INEOS revealed as pressure mounts on Amorim

Manchester United are in a perilous position with Ruben Amorim in charge, and it is no surprise that they are considering alternative bosses at Old Trafford.

Manchester United's potential alternatives to Ruben Amorim

Inconsistent results have led the Red Devils to a lowly plight in the bottom half of the Premier League, and club chiefs are now casting an eye to alternatives should Amorim be relieved of his duties.

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has been earmarked by Manchester United, and Steve Parish is doing all he can to see the German coach remain in the capital.

Crystal Palace manager OliverGlasnerbefore the match

Nevertheless, Paul Merson believes the Red Devils should go in a different direction, claiming the 51-year-old’s preferred formation wouldn’t align with the squad available at Old Trafford.

He stated via The Express: “Let’s say Ruben Amorim was manager at Palace now, he’d have half a chance of being a success. Palace have the players to play three at the back. They have the attributes in their squad to play in that system. For me, that’s why I’d be concerned about Glasner going to Man United.

“He’s a three-at-the-back man, and it is being proven that it is a system that just doesn’t fit the players at Man United. Glasner is not a good fit for Man United. Of course, I’m sure he’d be adaptable, and he’s proven with how he handles the players, but the system he uses is just all wrong for United. Amorim can tell you that.”

Michael Carrick has been mentioned in media circles, albeit he is probably one for the future, though one of his compatriots is now believed to be firmly in the running should Amorim be discarded over the coming weeks.

Gareth Southgate makes two demands to Man Utd

According to The Sun, former England manager Gareth Southgate has asked Manchester United for two key demands as he becomes a potential candidate to succeed Amorim.

First off, the 55-year-old, who was hailed for his underappreciated “ruthless” streak by John Stones, has made it clear he wants time to piece together a long-term roadmap to success, something he believes could take four years to master before the Red Devils are Champions League regulars once again.

Amorim forced into Man Utd changes v Sunderland as Wilcox and Berrada feelings shared

Amorim could make some big changes.

ByCallum Kemp Oct 3, 2025

Reticent to commit before his guarantees are fulfilled, he also wants INEOS to back him through all phases of his plan without fail, creating a sense of unity among all parties as Manchester United look to establish themselves among the elite once again.

The ex-Three Lions coach hasn’t managed at club level since his spell at Middlesbrough between 2006 and 2009. However, his time in charge of England was largely successful, reaching back-to-back European Championship finals and finishing fourth in the World Cup in 2018.

Given his ability to build sides capable of deep runs involving some of the world’s best talent, he may be the ideal man to get more out of Manchester United’s faltering players.

Arsenal dealt Noni Madueke blow as David Ornstein shares injury return timeline

Arsenal have been handed a Noni Madueke injury blow as Mikel Arteta receives some news about the in-form summer signing.

Noni Madueke subbed off half-time with injury in Man City draw

The England winger’s electric start to life in north London has attracted due praise, with Madueke and Cristhian Mosquera arguably standing out as Andrea Berta’s finest purchases thus far.

Arteta has started Madueke in five out of Arsenal’s first six games in all competitions so far, and the England international has repaid that faith by terrorising full-backs with his trickery, burst of pace and initiative in the final third.

Kepa Arrizabalaga

£5m

Martin Zubimendi

£60m

Christian Norgaard

£15m

Noni Madueke

£52m

Cristhian Mosquera

£13m

Viktor Gyokeres

£55m

Eberechi Eze

£67.5m

Piero Hincapie

Loan

Just months ago, Gunners supporters were protesting the ex-Chelsea star’s arrival with a petition and ‘#NoToMadueke’ movement on social media platform X, but fast-forward to now, and those same fans are now very worried about a potential long-term injury for him.

Madueke has also shined for the Three Lions under Thomas Tuchel on international duty, and Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville is among the critics to admit they’ve been left surprised by the 23-year-old’s excellent performances in an Arsenal shirt.

In place of the previously injured Bukayo Saka, Madueke dazzled on the right-wing, but Arteta now faces the prospect of being without him.

The former PSV Eindhoven forward was forced off at half-time in Arsenal’s dramatic 1-1 draw with Man City on Sunday, and there are some fears that Madueke may have suffered an ACL injury.

If that were the case, he’d face months on the sidelines, but luckily for Arteta, it appears his problem isn’t as serious as that.

That being said, he’s still set for a lengthy spell out.

Arsenal dealt Noni Madueke blow as David Ornstein shares news

The reliable David Ornstein reports that Madueke avoided an ACL tear, but will be unavailable for around two months with a knee injury, putting his return date during the November international break, meaning he could play against Tottenham on November 23.

While he is yet to get off the mark in terms of goals or assists, Madueke has been without question one of Arteta’s best players of the campaign so far, so this is undoubtedly a blow for Arsenal.

Noni Madueke form at Arsenal prompts Chelsea regret

The winger was Arsenal’s most threatening player in their 1-0 loss to Liverpool prior to the last international break, before he put in a Man of the Match display against Nottingham Forest at the Emirates, whilst also impressing in the first hour of their 5-0 win over Leeds United.

Arsenal’s new £150,000-per-week star is looking like the player who expensive flop Nicolas Pepe was supposed to be, except Madueke didn’t cost a seismic £72 million to bring in.

There are some suggestions that high-ranking Chelsea chiefs held reservations over selling Madueke to Arsenal, and so far, he’s shown exactly why.

Rangers now "expected" to sign another "great" EFL star after Fernandez

Having already signed Emmanuel Fernandez from Peterborough United, Rangers are now reportedly “expected” to sign a second EFL star this summer.

Martin: Fernandez has "huge potential"

Following a quiet couple of weeks, Rangers have stepped things up on the transfer front in recent days by welcoming both Joe Rothwell and Fernandez. The 49ers, in two moves, have laid out their intentions and are not stopping there. Alongside the aforementioned duo, the Gers have also set their sights on the likes of Conor Coady and Dor Turgeman.

Welcoming his new signing, Russell Martin told the official Rangers website: “Emmanuel is a young defender with a huge amount of potential, and I am excited to welcome him to the club.

“He has a strong physical presence, is a commanding defender and I believe in this environment we can help him develop and provide him with the opportunities to take his game to the next level. I’m looking forward to welcoming him into the group and getting to work.”

With Max Aarons, Rothwell, Fernandez and Lyall Cameron joining Oscar Cortes, who has arrived on a permanent deal, on Rangers’ list of arrivals, it’s clear that the 49ers have been in no mood to waste any time at Ibrox.

Rangers: 49ers set to sign £3.9m-per-year star for Martin in coming days

He’s another who has been on the list.

ByCharlie Smith Jul 3, 2025

The likes of Coady and Turgeman would be excellent additions to that list too. Coady, in particular, stands out as someone who could lead a new-look Rangers side next season as they aim to dethrone Celtic in the Scottish Premiership at long last.

Even after Fernandez and perhaps even Coady, however, Rangers may not be done with their shopping in English football amid reports that they’re expected to sign another star.

Rangers "expected" to sign Thelo Aasgaard

According to Rangers Review’s Joshua Barrie, Rangers are now “expected” to sign Thelo Aasgaard from Luton Town with both clubs now in advanced talks regarding the midfielder.

Like Fernandez, Aasgaard is still just 23 years old and represents a talent who could reach his full potential at Ibox. Despite only arriving at Luton in January, the Hatters’ relegation to League One has seemingly opened the door for Rangers to make their summer swoop and sign a player who will be hoping to avoid dropping back into England’s third tier.

Featuring for both Luton and Wigan Athletic last season in the Championship and League One, Aasgaard ended the campaign with an impressive 14 goals and three assists, earning plenty of praise in the process.

After watching on as he made his international debut for Norway, Luton boss Matt Bloomfield told reporters: “Thelo is a top performer. We know that. He’s someone who we believe can go on even further in the game and I think what he’s shown for us already is glimpses of that.

“He’s been great, receives in tight areas and can knit the game together for us, which we love. He’s gone away, in elite company and he looks like he’s right at home. It was lovely to sit and watch his game at the weekend.”

Personal terms agreed: Newcastle trump Chelsea as £60m star accepts salary

Newcastle United have now moved ahead of Chelsea in the race to sign a £60 million star with a bid now being prepared and salary terms already agreed, according to a recent report.

Rashford among Newcastle targets as Howe seeks new forwards

The Magpies have added just one new player to their squad so far this summer, and that is winger Antonio Cordero, who joins the club on a free transfer at the start of July following the expiration of his contract at Malaga. Cordero is not expected to be the only arrival at St James’ Park, as the Magpies continue to be linked with several high-profile players.

Big upgrade on Burn: Newcastle open talks to sign "outstanding" £60m star

Newcastle are looking to overhaul their defence

2 ByJoe Nuttall Jun 19, 2025

It was reported earlier this week that Newcastle made contact over signing defender Evan Ndicka from AS Roma. Newcastle are in the market for a new central defender, as they’ve been heavily linked with a move for Marc Guehi, but Ndicka is another option who could come at a cheaper price.

Meanwhile, they are also in the market for attacking reinforcements, and they have held internal talks over signing Mohammed Kudus from West Ham, as the forward is free to leave the Premier League side.

In fresh news, Newcastle are now also interested in signing Marcus Rashford on a season-long loan deal.

Aston Villa – Marcus Rashford

The Englishman’s future at Old Trafford looks to be coming to an end but he has yet to receive any concrete offers to leave United. The Magpies are now weighing up making a loan bid, as they can offer Rashford Champions League football, but the Red Devils are more interested in selling Rashford this summer than loaning him out again.

Newcastle move ahead of Chelsea in Joao Pedro race

As such, a permanent move for Rashford may not be on the cards for the Magpies, as according to Brazilian outlet UOL Esporte, Newcastle are now preparing a bid to sign Joao Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion.

Brighton forward Joao Pedro

The report states that the Magpies have moved ahead of Premier League rivals Chelsea in the race to sign Pedro, as they have already agreed personal terms with the forward. However, Chelsea’s interest in Pedro has reportedly ‘shaken’ the player, and now both clubs are preparing to make an official offer.

It isn’t clear how much Newcastle would be willing to spend on Pedro, but it’s been previously reported that Brighton value the forward at around £60 million. The 23-year-old scored 10 goals in 27 league games during the 2024/25 season, but a falling out at the club means he is now likely to leave during this summer transfer window.

Apps

70

Goals

30

Assists

10

Newcastle chasing Pedro may be seen as them looking to replace Alexander Isak, but Pedro being able to operate anywhere across the frontline as, well as a number 10, makes him a player who could be a perfect partner for the Swede.

The Brazilian has had back-to-back impressive campaigns in the Premier League now, and a move to Newcastle could accelerate his career further, as he will be able to play on the biggest stage of them all, the Champions League.

Leeds now open talks for "incredible" £60k-p/w player with 10 England caps

Leeds United have now opened talks with the entourage of an “incredible” player with 10 England caps to his name, according to a report.

Leeds looking to avoid drop by building experienced squad

Upon their return to the Premier League, Leeds’ main aim next season will be to avoid an instant return to the Championship, and it looks as though Daniel Farke is planning to avoid the drop by building a squad with a wealth of top-flight experience.

Indeed, the Whites have been linked with players in a range of different positions, many of whom have proven themselves over a number of years in the Premier League.

Target

Current club

Position

PL appearances

Yves Bissouma

Tottenham Hotspur

CM

191

Aaron Cresswell

West Ham United

LB

312

Jamie Vardy

Leicester City

ST

342

Callum Wilson

Newcastle United

ST

239

Aaron Ramsdale

Southampton

GK

183

The interest in Ramsdale comes about amid doubts over Illan Meslier, who was dropped for Karl Darlow during the promotion run-in, but the Southampton shot-stopper, who is available for £25m following the Saints’ relegation, is not the only English goalkeeper on the shortlist.

According to a report from Leeds United News, Leeds have now approached the entourage of Newcastle United’s Nick Pope, who has emerged as a top target for Farke now that Caoimhin Kelleher has decided to make the move to Brentford.

Transfer expert Graeme Bailey also dropped a further update on Pope’s St. James’ Park future, saying: “Pope, he’s on a very good contract there and age is not on his side. It depends where Leeds want to go with it as well.

“Do they go experience or young? I think they are assessing all options. He’s a very solid option.

“Clearly he’s going to be on the radar, but I don’t think they have 100% decided which way they’re going to go just yet.”

"Incredible" Pope could be exactly what Leeds need

Meslier simply cannot be trusted, with the 25-year-old costing Farke’s side 10 points in the Championship last season, and there is every indication the Newcastle goalkeeper would be a more reliable option between the sticks.

The England international, who has 10 caps to his name, has proven himself in the top flight across spells with Burnley and Newcastle, making a total of 221 Premier League appearances, while also catching the eye in the Champions League.

Leeds expected to submit bid for "incredible" £10m ace "in the coming days"

The Whites are set to make a move for a defender in the very near future…

3 ByDominic Lund Jun 4, 2025

Journalist Liam Kennedy was left particularly impressed by the £60k-a-week goalkeeper’s performance in a 0-0 draw against AC Milan in September 2023, claiming the Magpies “wouldn’t have got a point without his incredible performance in goal”.

There is clearly a strategy to bring in proven Premier League players this summer, and Pope certainly ticks that box, while his Champions League and international experience indicates he could be a real upgrade on Meslier, who has been far too error-prone.

Spurs hero just proved why he's a £100m star in the making in Bilbao

Player ratings courtesy of Sofascore

And just like that, Tottenham Hotspur have made history.

After everything that has gone wrong this season, after all the losses in the Premier League and domestic cups, Ange Postecoglou’s side walked out against Manchester United last night and left the pitch as Europa League champions.

It wasn’t exactly a game of the highest standard, but we don’t think a single player or fan associated with the North Londoners cares, as their 17-year trophy drought is finally over.

1

Goals

0

1.01

Expected Goals

0.85

27%

Possession

73%

1

Big Chances

3

3

Total Shots

16

5

Saves

0

22

Fouls

10

187

Passes

512

1

Shots on Target

6

Moreover, while the quality wasn’t necessarily present, there were plenty of hearty and heroic performances from the men in white, including one starter who must surely now be worth a fortune.

Spurs' star performers vs United

So, before we get to the player in question, it’s only fair we look at some of the other Spurs starters who left it all out on the pitch last night, such as Brennan Johnson.

The Welshman can sometimes go missing in games, and while he wasn’t exactly a constant threat in Bilbao, he managed to score the all-important goal and, as a result, etched his name into Tottenham folklore.

In short, the former Nottingham Forest star was fully deserving of the 8/10 match rating he got from the Standard’s Dan Kilpatrick.

The same score was given to Cristian Romero, who wore the captain’s armband until Son Heung-min came on late in the second half, and he more than led by example.

While perhaps a little too heated at times, the Argentine dealt with Rasmus Hojlund with ease, then managed to keep Joshua Zirksee relatively quiet and walked away with the Man of the Match award.

Finally, the often-maligned Yves Bissouma also deserves some serious credit for his complete display in the middle of the park.

The Mali international helped to mop up United’s middling attacks and even split their defence open with a brilliant pass on the odd occasion, in turn justifying the 8/10 match rating he got from Kilpatrick.

Player ratings courtesy of Sofascore

Yet, there was another starter from last night who was the pick of the bunch, someone who is a £101m superstar in the making.

Spurs' £101m superstar in the making

While there were some other starters who did themselves proud last night, like Richarlison and Pedro Porro, the incredible player we want to talk about is none other than Micky van de Ven.

Performance in Numbers

Want data and stats? Football FanCast’s Performance in Numbers series provides you with the latest match analysis from across Europe

The Flying Dutchman was utterly superb for Spurs last night and was arguably even more impressive than his defensive partner, so much so that considering Romero was valued at around £101m late last year, we reckon the former Vfl Wolfsburg gem isn’t too far off a similar valuation.

It was a masterclass of performance, with the 24-year-old making five clearances, completing 100% of his passes, blocking two shots and, most crucially, making a goal-line clearance from Hojlund’s header after Guglimle Vicario fumbled the ball from a cross.

Unsurprisingly, we were not the only ones massively impressed with the titanic defender.

For example, Kilpatrick awarded him a 9/10 match rating at full-time, writing that he was ‘composed and commanding at the back’ throughout the game.

Then, respected talent scout Jacek Kulig went a step further and labelled him as “one of Tottenham’s absolute heroes,” which, considering the context of his display and what it means for the club going forward, is pretty hard to dispute.

Ultimately, there were heroic performances across the pitch for Spurs last night, but for our money, anyway, Van de Ven was the pick of the bunch, and if Romero has a valuation of up to £101m, it’s just a matter of time until he does as well.

He'd send Tel packing: Spurs race to sign £19m "future ballon d'Or winner"

The incredible talent would be an unreal signing for Spurs.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 16, 2025

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