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Celtic are ready to open talks to try and sign QPR forward Bright Osayi-Samuel, according to reports.

Osayi-Samuel to Parkhead?

The 22-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to the Glasgow giants in recent weeks, and suggestions were made that Neil Lennon’s side were making the initial steps to bring Osayi-Samuel to Parkhead at the end of the 2020/21 campaign.

During the current campaign, the right-winger has scored twice and provided three assists in 18 appearances in all competitions (TransferMarkt), averaging 2.9 dribbles and 1.3 shots per game (Whoscored).

Oyasi-Samuel’s statistics with the ball are impressive, with Ryan Christie topping the Celtic charts with just two dribbles per game (Whoscored).

According to Football Insider, Lennon is ready to begin negotiations with the winger, who was described as “dangerous” by QPR manager Sam Warburton.

The report added that Celtic are keen to take advantage of cross-border rules, which means that the Hoops could capture Oyasi-Samuel on a free transfer with his contract set to expire at the end of the season.

Transfer Tavern Verdict

Oyasi-Samuel, who is valued at £3.15m, would be a fantastic addition to Lennon’s team. Not only that, but his attacking prowess would be hugely beneficial.

The fact that he has superior attacking statistics than Ryan Christie is impressive – at the age of just 22, he could have a long future at Parkhead.

Celtic must get this deal wrapped up – a pre-contractual agreement in line for a summer move would be very astute business.

In other news, Peter Lawwell gives green light to offer new contract to key Celtic asset.

Glasgow Rangers fans were far from happy with the commentary of Stephen Craigan during their 3-2 win over Standard Liege in the Europa League on Thursday.

The three points secured the Gers’ place in the round of 32. Goals from Connor Goldson, James Tavernier and Scott Arfield got the job done after Liege twice went ahead. The Ibrox outfit can secure top spot next week with a win over bottom-placed Lech Poznan in Group D.

The match was shown on BT Sport in the UK, and that meant Craigan was in charge of the match commentary. He made a couple of mistakes – mainly being surprised that Jermain Defoe was not included despite him not actually being in the Europa League squad – and that was more than enough for the Gers fans to hammer him, with one supporter even labelling him an ‘idiot’.

They took to social media platform Twitter to share their thoughts… look away now Stephen.

Let’s see what the fans had to say about Craigan below

In other news, Rangers fans were enraged by this Ewan Murray tweet.

Very rarely do we end up questioning Celtic.

Over the last ten years, they have been dominant, winning nine SPFL titles in a row.

However, this season looks as though it could pan out differently. That’s because Rangers are currently 11 points clear at the top of the table. There are a host of problems within the Parkhead ranks, but how can they solve them?

On the chalkboard

It’s not often we ask where the goals have gone in this Celtic team but beyond Odsonne Edouard this season, there appears to be a concerning lack.

Of course, Mohamed Elyounoussi has found form and scored a hat-trick recently, but the performances of Albian Ajeti are becoming a colossal concern.

The £4.5m summer signing scored five goals in his opening six games for the Hoops, but his displays have dropped off at an alarming rate.

He has now failed to score in his last eight outings and against Hibernian last weekend he was isolated and afforded few goal-scoring chances.

With Neil Lennon’s job under pressure, he needs to find a remedy soon.

Klimala at the ready

It’s taken a long time for the Polish striker to be ready but there is now no better excuse than to give him regular match action for the first time in Glasgow.

Patryk Klimala looked sloppy and wasn’t really up to scratch with the British game when he joined in January but he’s shown some strong signs in 2020/21, so much so that he simply has to be considered over the out of form Ajeti.

Why? Because he’s bulked up in terms of his stature and has three goals from just two starts all season. Remarkably, Klimala has played only 13 minutes in the Europa League this season, but that’s the competition where Lennon has to utilise him first.

The Pole must use Thursday as an audition to put himself right at the forefront of the manager’s plans, because in his minimal game time this season, he has been impressive.

Speaking about Klimala at the beginning of the season, Lennon said: “Patryk worked hard again. There are aspects of his game he needs to improve on.”

He continued: “It can be difficult coming to a new environment but he’s made his point and he’s headstrong. He wants to be part of it and wants to bulldoze in and make a contribution, so we are happy with that.”

So, what better occasion to throw him into the starting XI than in Europe?

It surely can’t get any worse than Ajeti showed last Saturday. Celtic need change in attack.

In other news, Celtic may be about to FINALLY replace Scott Sinclair…

After scraping by Newport County in the last 16 of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night, Newcastle return to Premier League action on Saturday as they take on Burnley at St James’ Park.

Steve Bruce made numerous changes to his starting line-up for the midweek clash against the League Two side, and will surely turn back to a much stronger eleven for the visit of the Clarets.

But despite needing penalties to overcome Newport, one or two players did put in the kinds of performances that may give Bruce a welcome selection headache.

And with that in mind, below is a look at how the Magpies could line up against Burnley.

In goal, Karl Darlow should resume goalkeeping duties after stepping aside for Mark Gillespie for the Carabao Cup game. However, in front of him, Bruce could be forced into making some changes, with injury concerns over the likes of Jamaal Lascelles and Emil Krafth.

If the duo do end up missing out, then Fabian Schar could return to the defence to partner Federico Fernandez, with Jamal Lewis and Javier Manquillo flanking them as the two full-backs.

And after opting to go with a back-five against Tottenham last weekend against Tottenham, Bruce may turn back to a more traditional back-four against Burnley.

That could see Isaac Hayden move into his more natural central midfield position, with Jonjo Shelvey and summer signing Jeff Hendrick completing the trio.

And in a major boost for the Magpies, Bruce confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Allan Saint-Maximin could finally be in contention to play after missing action thanks to an injury.

The Frenchman could end up replacing Miguel Almiron, whilst Jacob Murphy’s impressive performances could see him being rewarded with a starting spot over Joelinton.

Saint-Maximin and Murphy are likely to be joined in attack by another of Newcastle’s summer signings, Callum Wilson.

Predicted XI: Darlow; Manquillo, Schar, Fernandez, Lewis; Hayden, Shelvey, Hendrick; Saint-Maximin, Murphy, Wilson.

West Ham United could be on the verge of ending their centre-back pursuit as they enter the race for an experienced Premier League colossus…

What’s the word?

According to the Daily Mail, the Irons are keen on poaching Antonio Rudiger from Chelsea as he faces uncertainty over his future at the club having been left out by Frank Lampard in recent weeks.

The Telegraph’s reliable Blues correspondent Matt Law claims the 27-year-old is now effectively their fifth-choice centre-back and has been frozen out since the arrival of free-agent Thiago Silva.

Moyes is in the market for a new central defender and he could swoop in for the £36m-rated German on loan.

Ferdinand-like colossus

Ever since the likes of James Tomkins and James Collins departed east London, the centre-back position has been a rather troubling conundrum, even more so with Winston Reid perpetually on the treatment table.

You could argue that the club lack the presence of a Rio Ferdinand-type, someone who can influence from the back in an imposing nature and there were none better than the former fan-favourite.

Rudiger can give the Hammers that and more – ESPN describe the 31-cap international as a “tall, quick and athletic defender who is capable of turning out at centre-back or full-back” who is “comfortable with the ball at his feet and has all the necessary physical attributes to become a top-level centre-back.”

Perhaps the 27-year-old has been unfairly treated across the river as last season he averaged 2.9 aerials won, 2.8 clearances, 1.4 tackles per game, and even managed a passing accuracy of 86.8% from over 70 passes per match too, via WhoScored.

The 6 foot 3 monster has even been likened to Ricardo Carvalho by Garth Crooks, which isn’t a bad one to make given his influence in Chelsea’s title-winning sides.

Although Ferdinand himself isn’t a huge fan of Rudiger having slammed him for “appalling defending” in the past, though Moyes needs a quick solution and bringing him in on loan could provide that.

AND in other news, Hammers could find their new Payet in Serie A wizard…

According to Football Insider, Glasgow Rangers are still interested in Jacob Murphy – but Newcastle may not let him go until very close to the end of the transfer window.

The Gers have been linked with a move for the 25-year-old, who cost the Toon £12m in 2017.

Now, this latest report says the Ibrox outfit are still interested – but the Magpies may not let him leave until the end of the window.

After eight goals and eight assists for Norwich in 37 games in the Championship, Newcastle decided to take him to St. James’ Park, but he has so far managed just one strike in 41 games for the north-east outside. He did manage nine goals in 39 games on loan at Sheffield Wednesday last term, but again, that is far from eye-catching.

The case for Murphy, though, is squad depth and versatility. He can play on both the right-wing and the left-wing, meaning that his presence in the side could allow Ianis Hagi to move into attacking midfield, whilst he could also provide cover for Ryan Kent.

Currently valued at £3.15m by Transfermarkt, the Gers need to be careful they do not overstretch themselves financially – it is reported that Steve Bruce and co want a £1m loan fee for the campaign, whilst they also want any club that signs him to cover his £40,000-a-week wages. Having said that, Murphy could be an important addition in the Gers’ quest for the title.

Let us know what you think below!

Crystal Palace have a big transfer window ahead of them as they build to remain a mid-table team in the Premier League, and many fans of the South London side are reacting to the news that one player is due to sign a contract extension at the club.

Palace Xtra tweeted out the news from TEAMtalk suggesting that midfielder James McArthur is set to sign a new deal at the club to keep him at Selhurst Park until 2022.

The Scotsman is highly regarded by fans of the Eagles, and it is easy to see why as he is still performing at a very high level at the age of 32. The central midfielder averaged 2.4 tackles, 1.6 interceptions and 1.3 clearances per game last season, via WhoScored.

Despite his age, this sees him still valued at £4.32 million on Transfermarkt, and he truly has been a great servant for the club as he has picked up 19 goals and 17 assists in his 208 appearances.

He featured in 37 Premier League games last season, highlighting that he is seen as a vital player at the club, and it is no surprise to see so many Palace fans happy with the reports with one labelling him a “top player.”

Here is what fans have said following the news:

Best news so far should really be given the captaincy no one works harder than him

— LordTwigo (@CPFCwill20) August 18, 2020

Palace fans, what are your thoughts on this news? Let us know down below!

Liverpool appear to be back in the hunt for a player that Brendan Rodgers wanted to replace Steven Gerrard back in 2013.

What’s the word?

According to FCInterNews, the Premier League champions are one of several teams keen on signing Inter Milan midfielder Marcelo Brozovic.

It’s claimed that the Serie A outfit could consider a sale if his €60m (£55m) release clause is met, although the Reds haven’t yet made an official move or bid for the World Cup finalist.

They also suggest that Jurgen Klopp is a keen admirer of Brozovic, so with doubts over Gigi Wijnaldum’s long-term future at the club, could this be an ideal move to make?

Gerrard 2.0?

It’s interesting to learn of Liverpool’s interest in the Croatian midfielder as Rodgers tried to land him back in 2013 as Gerrard edged closer to the end of his Anfield career.

Ironically, Brozovic has actually been likened to Frank Lampard in the past due to his box-to-box abilities as he’s particularly strong in the tackle, can make late runs into the box and has an eye for goal.

This certainly bears hallmarks to the Liverpool legend himself.

Dario Simic has lauded him as “among the best in the world” in his position whilst current boss Antonio Conte believes Brozovic can become “world-class”.

The 27-year-old has enjoyed an impressive season too, managing three goals and seven assists whilst averaging 2.2 tackles, 1.6 shots and 1.2 key passes per game, via WhoScored.

That merely emphasises his abilities akin to Gerrard.

Klopp can’t rest on his laurels after clinching that maiden Premier League trophy, he must continue to improve the squad and Brozovic would certainly help that big time.

AND in other news, Liverpool fans slam links to reported PL transfer target…

As Everton head into the final game of the Premier League season on Sunday afternoon, Carlo Ancelotti will surely already have one eye on how he can look to strengthen his squad ahead of the new campaign in September.

And according to Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo (via Sport Witness), the Toffees have recently registered their interest in Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti.

The report claims that prior to the Frenchman’s latest injury setback, both Everton and fellow Premier League side West Ham contacted Barcelona about Umtiti’s situation, with the defender himself being made aware of the interest.

How big of an Everton fan are you? Can you spot Mikel Arteta from Graham Stuart? This quiz will test your knowledge, try it if you’re brave enough…

World Class score: 95% | Expert score: 80% | Veteran score: 65% | Intermediate score: 45% | Amateur score: 30% | Try Again: 5%

Whilst before it was suggested the 6 foot star would not be sold, Mundo Deportivo now suggest that Umtiti’s exit from the Camp Nou is inevitable.

And after hearing about the latest update on the France World Cup winner’s future, Everton fans flooded to Twitter to share their reactions.

Some Everton fans took issue with Umtiti’s injury record, with him missing 63 games in just four seasons with Barcelona.

A couple of Toffees fans urged the club not to go after another Barcelona “flop”, a reference to how the club signed Yerry Mina from the Catalan giants for a reported £27.1m.

Unsurprisingly, some Everton fans are concerned by the prospect of signing Umtiti, given his injury record.

But whilst his fitness is certainly is in question, his ability cannot be. Eric Abidal called him a “world-class” player, whilst his fellow French compatriot Andre-Pierre Gignac said he has the “quality to start for Barcelona”.

If Everton snatch him up this summer, then it could be a major coup.

According to Corriere dello Sport, AS Roma are very close to keeping Manchester United ace Chris Smalling in the summer, via @utdreport.   

The Italian newspaper claims Roma are only ‘one step away’ from signing Smalling on loan, which could become a permanent deal next year.

It seems likely Smalling will leave Old Trafford on loan again for another season and the Italians will be obliged to sign him permanently in 2021.

Although the defender’s first spell in Italy was brought to an abrupt halt as a result of the pandemic, he has still managed to play 20 games in Serie A this season (Transfermarkt).

Roma boss Paulo Foncesca has been impressed by the England international’s work ethic, as he has averaged 2 interceptions per game, completed 4.5 clearances on average, scored 2 goals, and created 1 assist so far (WhoScored).

In comparison, Phil Jones has struggled for form this season and the defender is now in a vulnerable position. It is worth pointing out Smalling has earned a higher WhoScored rating than his teammate at the time of writing.

After arriving at the Theatre of Dreams from Fulham for £7.2m in 2010, the 30-year-old has made over 300 appearances for the Red Devils, winning the Premier League twice, the Europa League, FA Cup and League Cup. He is currently valued at £14.4m via Transfermarkt.

United initially priced the centre-back at €25m, which equates to £22m, but it appears Ed Woodward has lowered the asking price to somewhere in the region of €12m-€15m.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has admitted he is a fan of the veteran in the past, but Smalling wants to be playing regular football in order to improve his chances of being named in Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2020 squad, and this is something the club legend cannot guarantee.

Indeed, Solskjaer has frequently used the pairing of captain Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof at the back this season, and it is hard to imagine the Englishman would be given a place in the starting lineup if he returned to Old Trafford.

Naturally, many United fans reacted to the transfer news on social media, with one supporter urging the board to “cash in ASAP,” and another adding “take Jones instead.”

Have a read through the rest of the mixed reactions so far…

United fans, should the board sell Chris Smalling permanently in the summer? Let us know down below!