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The loss to Tottenham Hotspur last week might have taken the shine off somewhat, but this summer has still been a brilliant one for Arsenal so far.

Mikel Arteta’s side have looked great in their other pre-season games, and Andrea Berta has been very busy in the transfer market.

The Italian has already made six first-team additions, with Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi undoubtedly being the most exciting of the lot.

Yet, it appears as if the Gunners aren’t done there, as they continue to be linked with Eberechi Eze, and with reports claiming that they’re now in talks to sell a peripheral player, they may soon have the money needed to sign the Englishman.

Why Arsenal want to sign Eze

Arsenal have been linked with Eze for a long time now, with some reports touting the 27-year-old for a move to the Emirates last summer.

However, it would be fair to say that the links have become far more concrete this summer.

In fact, some from last month claimed that talks with the player have gone well, and that the North Londoners are just waiting for the Crystal Palace star’s £68m release clause to expire later this month, so they have more wriggle room in negotiations.

Whatever the final price for the Eagles ace ends up being, it’s easy to see why Arteta and Co are so keen to sign him.

For example, despite playing for a mid-table side at best last season, the “superstar” attacker, as dubbed by respected analyst Ben Mattinson, racked up a tally of 14 goals and 11 assists in 43 appearances, totalling 3303 minutes.

Appearances

43

Minutes

3303′

Goals

14

Assists

11

Goal Involvements per Match

0.58

Minutes per Goal Involvement

132.12′

In other words, the former QPR ace averaged a goal involvement every 1.72 games, or every 132.12 minutes across the campaign.

On top of that, the Greenwich-born maestro played a pivotal role in Palace’s FA Cup triumph, scoring in the quarter-final, semi-final, and final.

In all, Eze looks like he’d be a sensational signing for Arsenal, and it appears as if the club are making room for his arrival.

The Arsenal star who could be sold for Eze

While the focus of this summer for Arsenal has been the incomings, there are still several players around the first team who have been linked with possible exits.

Transfer Focus

For example, Gabriel Jesus was supposedly of interest to Brazilian side Flamengo last week, while Leandro Trossard has been linked to Borussia Dortmund on multiple occasions, and even Jakub Kiwior has been turning heads at Porto.

However, as things stand, the player who looks most likely to leave this summer is Fabio Vieira, who first moved to the Emirates three years ago for around £34m.

At least that’s according to a recent report from Sebastien Vidal, who claims that German outfit VfB Stuttgart are now interested in the Portuguese midfielder and have been in talks with Arsenal over a permanent transfer.

The 25-year-old would undoubtedly leave for a loss, but even then, it is probably time Arteta and Co cut their losses, as there is no indication he’ll ever develop into the player they hoped he’d become.

After all, he was only able to amass a tally of 13 goal involvements in 49 appearances across the two seasons he’s spent with the club, and then even last season, when he was on loan with Porto, he didn’t look much more than okay.

For example, the “exceptional” midfielder, as talent scout Jacek Kulig once dubbed him, produced 11 goal involvements in 42 games, but eight of those came in just 26 league appearances.

Appearances

39

33

16

42

Goals

7

2

1

5

Assists

16

6

3

6

Goal Involvements per Match

0.58

0.24

0.25

0.26

Ultimately, Vieira clearly has some talent, but it’s equally clear that he’s not good enough to play for Arsenal, and if his departure can make room for Eze, then the club should thank him for his efforts and send him on his way.

Saka & Rodrygo hybrid: Arsenal in contact to sign "amazing" £61m sensation

The talented international would add some real class to Arsenal’s squad.

2 ByJack Salveson Holmes Aug 4, 2025

Fabrizio Romano has shared an encouraging Tottenham transfer update after the club unfortunately missed out on a deal for Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White.

Tottenham set to make offer for "sensational" £45m star after holding talks

Spurs have been in contact over a deal for a midfielder, with an opening bid now in the works.

2 ByDominic Lund Jul 28, 2025

Spurs head coach Thomas Frank was dealt his first blow as Lilywhites manager with the surprise Saturday announcement that Gibbs-White signed a new deal at the City Ground.

Just over two weeks ago, the England international was on the verge of joining Frank’s side. Chairman Daniel Levy was ready to trigger his £60 million release clause in another quick-fire, statement deal right after they signed Mohammmed Kudus for £55 million from West Ham (ESPN).

The move was so advanced, in fact, that Spurs scheduled a medical for the attacking midfielder on July 11 – but Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis somehow managed to block his transfer in unprecedented fashion.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Marinakis threatened legal action against Tottenham for an alleged ‘illegal’ approach for Gibbs-White, accusing them of both tapping up the player and breaching confidentiality rules surrounding his release clause (Sky Sports).

Since then, Marinakis did what he hasn’t been able to do for the last 12 months – convince the 25-year-old to agree a contract extension.

With Gibbs-White now committing his future, Frank, Levy and technical director Johan Lange are now forced to enter the market for an alternative number 10 – which they’re in serious need of.

Tottenham really struggled for creativity against League One side Luton Town last weekend, and while it’s important not to read too much into pre-season preparations, Frank will be hoping it isn’t a sign of things to come.

James Maddison is still coming back from a knee injury which has kept him out of pre-season so far, but the Englishman has been included in Tottenham’s squad list for their imminent tour of Asia.

Tottenham working on signing Morgan Gibbs-White alternative

According to Fabrizio Romano, writing in GiveMeSport’s newsletter, Spurs are very much still on the look-out for another creative midfielder after missing out on Gibbs-White.

While no names have come up just yet, Romano states that Tottenham are actively “working” on signing a Gibbs-White alternative right now – coming as some much-needed good news after what was a waste of two weeks.

“They’re working on it [alternative targets for Gibbs-White],” said Romano. “As soon as I know, I will tell you.”

In terms of quality candidates, we believe that Spurs should look no further than Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze.

Arsenal are believed to be pursuing a deal for Eze, but nothing is done yet, and Spurs have been credibly linked with the 27-year-old this window (talkSPORT).

The England international, who commands a £60 million release clause which could rise to £68 million through bonuses (Sky Sports), would come at a similar price to what Levy was willing to pay for Gibbs-White.

Eze also bagged 14 goals and 11 assists in all competitions last term, including the FA Cup final-winning goal against Man City, would undoubtedly upgrade Frank’s options, and he’s almost a no-brainer to at least consider.

If Liverpool’s 4-2 defeat to Milan on Saturday afternoon showcased anything, it’s that the recruitment team are in dire need of signing a central defender.

The reasoning is less about the scoreline but more about the situation Arne Slot’s men find themselves in.

Joe Gomez has flown home from Singapore owing to an injury, which has left Ibou Konate and Virgil Van Dijk as the only fit central defenders.

In fact, Ryan Gravenberch even had to play at centre half on Tuesday.

The obvious incoming would be Marc Guehi. Liverpool have been religiously linked with the Crystal Palace captain right throughout the summer window. A £45m deal could be on the table if Richard Hughes and Steve Parish get talking.

Yet, that’s not where all the excitement is right now. The suspense lies in Alexander Isak’s and Liverpool’s forward line.

What's next for Liverpool in the transfer market

The Reds may have welcomed Hugo Ekitike to Anfield last week, but that hasn’t cooled their interest in Isak.

The Merseysiders are believed to be the frontrunners for the Swede’s signature but would have to make a bid of around £150m before Newcastle United even consider selling their prized asset.

That sort of money could be funded by selling Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez and if they both did depart, another forward feels like they may well be needed.

Real Madrid winger Rodrygo has been linked but that’s not Hughes’ top target according to ESPN.

Indeed, as per Julien Laurens, it’s reported that the club’s sporting director is a huge fan of PSG winger Bradley Barcola.

Unfortunately for Liverpool, it’s unlikely the Champions League winners would be open to selling. That said, just like Isak, every player has their price.

Why Bradley Barcola would be such an exciting signing

Landing Isak this summer would be a remarkable piece of business, something that eclipses the £116m deal to bring Florian Wirtz to England.

Wirtz has become the most expensive player in Premier League history and before too long, Isak looks set to surpass that number.

Many view him as the best striker in the world right now and his haul of 27 goals last term certainly puts him in that bracket.

He’s an electrifying player, someone cut from the same cloth as Thierry Henry, in the words of Eddie Howe.

This isn’t a player Liverpool necessarily need after Ekitike’s arrival but signing someone this good cannot be passed up on. Only Mo Salah scored more than the Newcastle forward last term in the English top-flight.

So, it would take quite the player to be as exciting as Isak but that’s the category Barcola falls into.

The Frenchman proved himself to be “one of the best left wingers in Europe” in the words of analyst Ben Mattinson, certainly last season, and he’s only gone from strength to strength since switching Lyon for Paris.

For Luis Enrique’s men in 2024/25, the Frenchman scored 21 goals and also supplied 21 assists for his teammates.

Bradley Barcola's stats pre-Club World Cup.

For context, that’s two fewer assists than Salah managed across the same campaign, a statistic that illuminates the pairing’s ability to create and score on a regular basis.

Like Salah, Barcola is a duel threat from outside and his dazzling ability to beat players in 1 v 1 situations makes him one of the most exciting players on the continent.

Compared to positionally similar players in Europe’s top five leagues over the last year, the 22-year-old ranks among the very best for a whole host of metrics.

Goals

0.58

0.49

Assists

0.41

0.19

Shots

3.06

2.66

Key passes

2.07

2.10

Progressive passes

3.97

4.12

Successful take-ons

1.40

1.99

Carries

35.3

29.2

Progressive carries

5.66

4.04

One of the most creative and progressive wide players around, Barcola would fit seamlessly into this Liverpool team, notably ranking in the top 8% of wingers in Europe for assists, the top 9% for progressive carries and the best 2% for expected goals.

In short, he’s a demon with the ball at his feet and regularly crests goalscoring opportunities not just for teammates but himself.

He also ranks favourably compared to Diaz, the man he’d likely replace, notably in the creative department. While Diaz scored 19 times in all competitions, he only registered eight assists.

Losing the Colombian to Bayern Munich would be a blow, but Barcola is a clear upgrade. Like Wirtz & Isak, he’d be a transformational arrival to Slot’s forward line.

Ekitike will love him: Liverpool begin talks to sign £51m Diaz replacement

Liverpool have found an exciting replacement for Luis Diaz, who could leave Anfield this summer.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Jul 21, 2025

If Liverpool aren’t already favourites to retain their Premier League title after signing Florian Wirtz for a British record transfer fee of £116m, then they certainly would be if they signed Alexander Isak.

Plenty of teams around the globe have dreamed of bringing the Swede to their club and the Anfield outfit could well make that a reality this summer.

Boy, what a signing this would be. Isak scored 27 goals in all competitions last term. He netted 23 in the Premier League. The only man with more was Liverpool hero, Mo Salah.

So, the Newcastle United forward is a pretty special talent and it’s understandable that the Toon have no desire to let him depart St James’ Park this summer.

Still, Liverpool are trying and they’re willing to put a lot of money on the table to bring him further south to Merseyside.

The latest on Alexander Isak to Liverpool

While Liverpool have dreamt of signing Isak all summer long, they haven’t made their intentions clear until this week.

Indeed, the Athletic’s David Ornstein dropped a seismic piece of news earlier in the week that the league winners have made an approach, but no formal offer just yet, to sign Isak. The Magpies have reiterated that he is not for sale, that’s despite Liverpool suggesting they are willing to pay around £120m for his services.

That being said, Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie has suggested that “every player has their price” and Newcastle could be brought to the negotiating table if a £150m bid is made.

Transfer Focus

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

Whether the Reds have what it takes to put that sort of money out there after breaking their transfer record once this summer already remains to be seen.

With such money involved, a move does feel unlikely. It’s why they are courting alternatives.

Liverpool's two best Isak alternatives

The main striker on the radar of the recruitment team at the moment is Hugo Ekitike. However, like the Isak situation, it’s a tricky situation. That’s because Newcastle are embroiled in this saga as well.

News broke at the beginning of the week that Newcastle are working on a deal to sign the Frenchman from Eintracht Frankfurt in Germany. Yet, he’s also a player that Liverpool like.

Ornstein again revealed on Wednesday that the Merseysiders have made contact with the Bundesliga club regarding a move.

Fabrizio Romano has already indicated that if Newcastle don’t sell Isak then they will aim to steal the Toon’s number one target away from them. Well, the wheels are in motion on that move already, with Romano revealing on Thursday that a bid has now been submitted to sign the Frankfurt striker.

Liverpool have other players on their radar, perhaps most notably Brentford’s Yoane Wissa and Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford. The most exciting name is Julian Alvarez.

A report from Spain earlier in the window indicated that Liverpool were prepared to pay around £142m for the Atletico Madrid forward and now Anfield Watch reporter Bence Bocsak has revealed that the Argentine is still on their ‘radar’.

He suggests that Alvarez is a ‘dream option’, but like Isak, it’s unlikely Atleti will sanction a sale just one year after bringing him to Spain from Manchester City.

How Alvarez compares to Isak and Ekitike

Isak would be a remarkable coup for Liverpool if they could get a deal over the line. He’s one of the best strikers around the globe and has proven over the last two campaigns that he can score goals at a regular rate in the Premier League.

Ekitike, by comparison, clearly has lots of potential. He’s already been described as “the next Mbappe” in some quarters but rather like Darwin Nunez, he’s a raw talent, someone who still needs to refine his game.

What’s Alvarez like? Well, he’s proven, not just on the continent now with Atleti but also in the Premier League, where he won trophy after trophy with Manchester City.

He’s also the complete package, cut from a similar cloth as Roberto Firmino. This is not just a goalscorer. He’s a creator, a facilitator, and someone who could thrive just as Firmino did with the likes of Salah and Cody Gakpo either side. Dare we say, it could even be with Real Madrid’s Rodrygo to one side? Liverpool are currently leading the race for the Brazilian, according to reports, but that’s a story for another day.

Described as a “monster” by Argentine journalist Pablo Gonzalez and remarkably as “the best forward in the world” by reporter Roy Nemer, he ended his debut campaign in the Spanish capital having scored 29 goals, two more than Isak, and he also registered eight assists.

Let’s also cast your mind back to his final term at the Eithad. During 2023/24, he was prolific in front of goal, bagging 19 goals and registering 14 assists. This is a player who does a lot of things right.

Goals

0.49

0.79

Assists

0.21

0.14

Shots

2.90

3.00

Pass success %

78%

77%

Key passes

1.88

1.22

Progressive passes

3.40

2.85

Shot-creating actions

3.94

2.94

Progressive carries

2.50

2.71

Analysing the numbers deeper across the last two seasons, we get a sense for what Isak and Alvarez do well, but primarily from the metrics assessed, where the Argentine superstar thrives in comparison.

The Swede is clearly more prolific per 90 minutes as far as goals are concerned but Alvarez offers the ability to create, registering more key passes, progressive passes and producing an extra shot-creating action every 90 minutes.

That means that even if he doesn’t score quite as many goals, he’s remaining a big threat in the final third and would provide that Firmino-like ability to make things happen in Slot’s attack.

Isak is the dream but here us out, Alvarez has his perks too. His overall game is certainly better, that’s for sure.

He's better than Ekitike: Liverpool chasing "monster" £60m Isak alternative

Liverpool are looking to sign a new number nine in the summer transfer window.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 15, 2025

A very exciting season awaits for Newcastle United.

Last time round, the Magpies won the EFL Cup, ending their 70-year wait for domestic silverware, and finished fifth in the Premier League, with the Champions League patch featuring rather prominently in Monday’s third kit launch video.

More importantly, ahead of their Champions League return, Eddie Howe – backed by the Saudi PIF – will be determined to bolster his squad, so could some new signings be imminent?

Newcastle looking to bolster their backline

As has been widely reported, Newcastle United are close to signing Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford for £40m, thereby surely set to become the Magpies’ new number one.

This is interesting, because it is pretty debatable if Trafford is a clear upgrade on existing first-choice shot-stopper Nick Pope, more on that later.

Meantime, according to the Mirror, via Fußball Transfers, Newcastle are ‘stepping up their efforts’ to sign Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Edmond Tapsoba, claiming that they’ve made a £50m offer.

Transfer Focus

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

They add that Tottenham are also ‘interested’ in signing the Burkina Faso international, while die Werkself ‘are willing to negotiate a sale’.

However, having already sold Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Jonathan Tah and Odilon Kossounou for a combined £164m this summer, die Schwarzroten are not under pressure to accept a low-ball offer, so could hold out for Tapsoba’s £81m release clause.

Nevertheless, having just brought in Jarell Quansah from Liverpool for a reported fee of £30m, Bayer may well be preparing for life after Tapsoba, so could he be on his way to Tyneside?

Why Edmond Tapsoba would be a better signing than James Trafford

Still only 26 years old, Tapsoba joined Bayer Leverkusen from Vitória de Guimarães in 2020, making 226 appearances for the German club to date, starting 28 of 34 Bundesliga matches as die Werkself picked up the Meisterschale for the first time ever in 2023/24.

His performances have earnt rave reviews, with journalist António Mango labelling him a “monster”, while Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout asserted that he is “solid as a rock”.

So, let’s assess how he compares to Newcastle’s current centre-backs.

Appearances

43

42

10

46

Minutes

3,613

3,629

581

3,974

Pass completion %

87%

83.7%

89.4%

88.4%

Tackles

1.4

1.2

2.7

1.1

Interceptions

0.9

1.4

1.1

0.8

Clearances

3.1

4.1

5.5

5.3

Blocked shots

0.6

0.8

0.9

0.7

Ball recoveries

4.5

4.2

3.1

2.8

Aerial duel success %

61%

44%

61%

66%

Ground duel success %

48%

48%

71%

50%

Touches

80.7

72.4

68.5

65.5

As the table documents, Tapsoba compares favourably to Newcastle’s existing centre-backs, leading the way when it comes to ball recoveries and touches per 90, while, across the board, he was only behind Sven Botman on a per 90 basis.

This, however, is due to the fact the Dutchman played fewer than 650 minutes across all competitions last season due to various knee injuries, underlining that centre-back is a position that Howe will be looking to bolster, especially left centre-back.

Goalkeeper, on the other hand, did not appear to be such a problem position, so let’s compare the two ex-Burnley goalkeepers, Pope and Trafford.

Appearances

28

28

Goals conceded

35

62

Saves

86

106

Save %

71.7%

65.7%

Post-shot xG – goals conceded

+1.8

-5.9

% of crosses stopped

10.9%

7.2%

Pass completion %

73.5%

65.5%

As the table highlights, when comparing the pair’s most recent Premier League campaigns, Pope’s numbers are actually more impressive than those of Trafford, with the caveat that the latter was playing for a hopeless Burnley side, and has certainly improved following a season back in the EFL Championship.

Nevertheless, Trafford does not appear to be coming in to fill a position of need, unlike Tapsoba.

Ben McAleer of the Guardian described the defender as calm and composed in possession, while Dylan Buesnel of Total Football Analysis agrees, praising his excellent ball retention and ‘ability to keep the ball under pressure’, adding that his ‘defensive attributes are helping him shine’.

Meantime, Vishnu Anandraj of Breaking the Lines labels him a ‘consistent performer’, impressed by his ‘athleticism and composure’, all of which suggests Tapsoba would be a transformative signing for Newcastle and for PIF, whereas it’s difficult to argue that the same could be said of Trafford.

Manchester United have plenty of decisions to make this summer and Andre Onana’s future at Old Trafford may now have taken another twist, according to a report.

Andre Onana's Manchester United future uncertain

On the face of it, Onana is a name that divides opinion across the Red Devils’ support and his inconsistent performances last campaign won’t have won any favour among the undecided.

The Cameroon international conceded 65 times in 50 appearances across all competitions, and a string of high-profile errors have led Manchester United to look at the likes of Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez as a potential replacement.

Shedding light on the rumours, ex-Premier League scout Mick Brown stated: “Man United have made it clear they would like to sign Martinez. They’ll take whatever they can get for Onana, and then they’ll make contact with Aston Villa and see if they can get a deal over the line.

“He’s seen as a huge upgrade on Onana so they’re prepared to take a hit to get things moving. If Man United could swap Onana for Martinez tomorrow, they’d jump at it. Martinez is in his 30s now, but he’s a very capable goalkeeper and they’re not concerned about that.“

Intriguingly, Manchester United have also been given the green light to pursue Porto stopper Diogo Costa, lending credence to the notion that they could be set for a change between the sticks this summer.

Bruno will make him world-class: Man Utd hold talks for "phenomenal" star

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ByEthan Lamb Jun 28, 2025

Plenty of names may enter the hat to replace Onana if he is moved on, though it remains to be seen how events develop over the next few weeks.

That said, the Red Devils could now have their house in order on that front as Ruben Amorim tries to sort out his goalkeeping situation.

Man Utd could loan out Onana with John Victor lined up

According to The Sun, Manchester United could loan out Andre Onana this summer and sign Botafogo’s John Victor as a replacement for as little as £6 million.

In the case of Onana, Monaco are said to have asked the question over a temporary move, but his £120,000 per week wages have proved to be a stumbling block. The Red Devils would prefer to conduct a deal with a European club over a Premier League rival.

Andre Onana vs John Victor – who is a better fit for Manchester United?

Andre Onana – Premier League

Save percentage

67.2%

Goals conceded

44

Clean sheets

9

Pass accuracy

69.8%

Penalties faced/saved

1/4

John Victor – Brazilian Serie A

Save percentage

81.1%

Goals conceded

7

Clean sheets

6

Pass accuracy

79.4%

Penalties faced/saved

0/0

Victor may have a smaller sample size than Onana, but purely for demonstrative purposes, his statistics do stand up to scrutiny when evaluating the consistency levels needed for a Manchester United goalkeeper to succeed at Old Trafford.

Keeping ten clean sheets in 29 appearances across all competitions this season, he could be the man to succeed the Cameroon international, even if there will be difficulties to overcome in sanctioning his exit.

Manchester United have started talks with a big club over the sale of a “world-class” Red Devils player, according to a new update from Sky journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.

Several struggling attackers could leave Man Utd

Wholesale changes are needed in Ruben Amorim’s attack in the summer transfer window, both in terms of signings coming in and current players moving on, following a dismal 2024/25 season at Old Trafford.

Jadon Sancho was loaned out to Chelsea last summer, following an underwhelming three years in a United shirt, while Marcus Rashford and Antony also departed on a temporary basis midway through the campaign, joining Aston Villa and Real Betis respectively.

Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund experienced a hugely taxing period leading the line for the Red Devils, scoring just four goals in 32 Premier League appearances, while Joshua Zirkzee didn’t exactly set the world alight after completing a move from Bologna.

For that reason, it’s no surprise that a host of attacking players have been linked with a move to United this summer, with Matheus Cunha already arriving from Wolves. Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo and Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike are reportedly being considered, with the former looking likely to come in.

Man Utd in talks to sell Jadon Sancho

According to Sky journalist Gianluca Di Marzio [via Sport Witness], Manchester United have entered talks with Juventus over the sale of Sancho in the last few hours. The Serie A giants are said to have “intervened” in Friday, looking to beat Napoli to the signing of the 25-year-old, having had a long-time interest in him.

Believed to be on more than £250,000-a-week, Sancho has been an undoubted disappointment for United, also struggling to impress at Chelsea, only starting half of the Blues’ league matches last term (19) and bagging only four assists in 31 outings in the competition overall.

For that reason, it does make sense for the Red Devils to part ways with the Englishman permanently, even though Lucien Favre has waxed lyrical over him in the past.

“Jadon’s a world-class player, no question about that – but you have to remember he’s only 19 years old. It’s hard to be outstanding in every game.”

He'd be perfect for Bruno: Man Utd set to hold talks for "incredible" star

Manchester United could be about to land a star who could take Bruno Fernandes to the next level.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 20, 2025

Sadly, Sancho simply hasn’t backed up his early-career hype when he was at Borussia Dortmund, and at 25, there is a feeling that he will never reach his vast potential that existed at that point.

United need to sign attackers who can consistently perform and produce end product on a weekly basis, and Sancho has shown for long enough now that he can’t be that player in the Premier League.

Borussia Dortmund

158

53

67

Man Utd

83

12

6

Chelsea

41

5

10

A move to Serie A could benefit him however, in terms of the pace and physicality of the league not being as intense as the English game, with United using the funds received for the winger on a summer upgrade.

Manchester United have now directly “called” the agents of a “phenomenal” £68m striker, with the race for his signature still “open”, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Man Utd eager to bolster attacking options

Man United have already secured the signature of Matheus Cunha, and with Bryan Mbeumo, who could cost around £70m, still in their sights, it is no wonder there is a great deal of skepticism about how they will be able to fund their summer transfer business.

However, football finance expert Kieran Maguire has revealed that INEOS have been using a different company for PSR purposes, and the transfer fees for any new arrivals will be spread across the entire length of their contract.

As such, the Red Devils are £100m better off PSR-wise, which could free up the required funds to sign a new striker alongside Cunha and Mbeumo, and Romano has revealed they have made renewed contact over a deal for Viktor Gyokeres.

The transfer expert said: “It’s an open race for Gyokeres. He remains on Arsenal’s list in case the Sesko deal doesn’t happen, Man United have called his agents again over the weekend.”

Having held direct talks with Gyokeres’ agents, there is clearly a great deal of interest on United’s behalf, and the Gunners appear to be prioritising a move for Benjamin Sesko, which could open the door for the Sweden international to move to Old Trafford.

Man Utd now preparing Zirkzee plus cash offer for "unbelievable" £50m+ star

The Red Devils are now willing to use Joshua Zirkzee as part of a swap deal…

ByDominic Lund Jun 11, 2025

However, a deal for the Sporting star may not be cheap, with it recently being revealed the Portuguese club have now hiked their asking price to £68m.

"Phenomenal" Gyokeres could push for summer move

Sporting boss Rui Borges will no doubt be disappointed to lose the 27-year-old, should he move on this summer, having singled the centre-forward out for praise back in April, saying: “Viktor is a game-changer, and he will continue to be, whether with us or elsewhere. His quality is undeniable; it is phenomenal.”

However, Borges may have an unsettled player on his hands until a bid is accepted, with it being revealed the former Coventry City man has been left furious by Sporting’s decision to raise their asking price.

It is no wonder the Stockholm-born striker is seeking a move to one of Europe’s top leagues, as he found it all too easy in Portugal last season, outscoring Arsenal target Sesko by a considerable margin.

As such, while it is unclear whether the talks with Gyokeres’ agents were positive, it is promising news that Man United appear to be stepping up their interest, and they will be hoping the Sporting star is keen to reunite with former manager Ruben Amorim.

Is it set to be a busy summer at Celtic?

After missing out on the treble, beaten on penalties by Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup Final, the Hoops are expected to heavily reinforce their squad this summer.

Well, with a crucial Champions League play-off tie circled in red on the calendar, taking place at the end of August, Brendan Rodgers will want his summer business to be done early, so are the Premiership champions about to land a new recruit?

Celtic targeting a new midfielder

Defenders are certainly the order of the day for the Celts this summer with Kieran Tierney’s return to Parkhead one of Scottish football’s worst-kept secrets.

However, the full-back isn’t the only player who could be closing in on a move to Paradise according to reports.

As per Portuguese outlet A Bola, Celtic have ‘opened initial talks’ to sign midfielder Demir Ege Tıknaz.

They outline the fact that the 20-year-old spent this season on loan at Rio Ave from Beşiktaş, and the Portuguese club have an option to make this move permanent for €5m (around £4.2m).

However, given interest from Celtic, as well as Lille, Rio Ave are preparing to make a quick profit on Tıknaz, placing a €10m (around £8m) price-tag on his head.

So, would he be a good signing for the Scottish champions, and which former Celt is he reminiscent of?

Demir Ege Tıknaz: the next Nir Bitton?

Writer Ryan McGinlay believes that Tıknaz’s ‘resemblance in play-style to Nir Bitton is uncanny’ and, should he arrive, if the Turkey international had even half as successful a Celtic career, he’d be doing well.

Bitton signed from FC Ashdod in 2013 and would remain at Celtic for nine years, making 271 appearances and winning 18 major trophies.

Naturally a defensive midfielder, the Israeli international would frequently fill in at centre-back too, with Kieran Devlin of the Athletic praising Bitton’s ‘reading of the game’ and ‘composure in possession’, with Joe Sullivan labelling him ‘versatile and highly reliable’.

So, could Tıknaz be something similar?

Well, analyst Ben Mattinson believes the Turkiye U21 international ‘reads the game well’ allowing him to ‘step up and intercept​​​​​​​’, praising his ‘timing of tackles​​​​​​​’ and ability to ‘steal the ball’, adding that he possesses a ‘decent passing range’ too.

Meantime, in an interview with Sarah Shephard of the Athletic, Tıknaz​​​​​​​ himself says he has a similar playing style to that of Sergio Busquets, stating “I always want to have possession… I’m kind of a playmaker… I can play box-to-box too”.

Well, according to Aryan Suraj Chadha of Goal, the Turkish youngster is one of the most ‘sought-after talents across Europe’, so let’s assess his statistics in the Primeira Liga this season.

Minutes

1,976

107th

Completed passes

826

82nd

Pass completion %

85.1%

45th

Passes into the final third

99

34th

Progressive passes

96

62nd

Tackles

35

15th

Interceptions

47

3rd

Ball recoveries

132

21st

​​​​​​​

Worth stating first and foremost that, according to a study by Bernd Frick, Tommy Kweku Quansah and Markus Lang, the Primeira Liga is one of the ‘least balanced leagues’ in European football, so the fact that Tıknaz was playing for Rio Ave, who finished 11th, makes his statistics all the more impressive.

Demir Ege Tıknaz (Tiknaz)

The Turkish midfielder ranks highly for metrics both in and out of possession, sat third when it comes to interceptions, while also registering noteworthy numbers when it comes to his pass completion percentage as well as passes into the final third.

Thus, all available evidence suggests Tıknaz is a high-quality, high-potential player, one that Celtic should absolutely be looking to snap up.

​​​​​​​

Celtic could strike for "excellent" 85-goal hero who wants Parkhead return

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5 BySean Markus Clifford Jun 7, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have held talks with the representatives of an “outrageous” forward compared to Argentina icon Lionel Messi, according to reports, coming amid their triumph in the Europa League.

Tottenham end 17-year wait for silverware after Europa League win over Man Utd

Brennan Johnson etched his name into Spurs folklore on Wednesday night, scoring the only goal of a tense encounter, with Ange Postecoglou’s side ending the club’s 17-year wait for major silverware after beating Man Utd 1-0.

Tottenham: Levy ready to trigger £100k-per-week rival star's release clause

Spurs are front of the queue for his signature.

ByEmilio Galantini May 21, 2025

As Tottenham’s squad hoisted the trophy aloft, Postecoglou was also reminded of the promise he made earlier this campaign – namely that he ‘always’ wins silverware during his second season in charge.

Guglielmo Vicario

7.7

Yves Bissouma

7.6

Cristian Romero

7.4

Bruno Fernandes

7.4

Destiny Udogie

7.2

via WhoScored

It was a statement which could’ve come back to bite him, but the 59-year-old’s message has now been vindicated by Spurs’ glorious night in Spain. Postecoglou became the first Australian manager to win a major European trophy, doing his country proud in the process, all while changing an ever-present narrative around the Lilywhites that they’re a ‘nearly’ team.

“It wasn’t me boasting, it was a declaration,” said Postecoglou on his ‘second season’ quote after Tottenham’s win over United.

“If we fell short, I was ready to cop it.”

Guglielmo Vicario’s heroics in goal – combined with Cristian Romero’s outstanding defensive display, Micky van de Ven’s acrobatic clearance off the line and the performances of their wing-backs – helped to shut a dominant Man United side out and end Tottenham’s long wait for a parade.

Spurs also sealed a monumental boost by qualifying for next season’s Champions League, and all the riches that come with it in terms of both revenue and player-pull.

This will undoubtedly have a positive effect on their summer recruitment strategy. Whether or not Tottenham’s trophy-winning boss will be at the helm to benefit from it next term remains to be seen, following previous reports Postecoglou could leave regardless of their Europa League campaign.

However, whether it be for Postecoglou or any potential new manager, Lyon star Rayan Cherki is attracting Daniel Levy’s interest.

Tottenham hold talks with Rayan Cherki after Lionel Messi comparison

According to GiveMeSport, Tottenham have declared their interest in Cherki after holding talks with his representatives.

Levy and co are apparently attempting to discover more about the terms he’d want to join them, and there are reports that the exciting French winger has a very tempting £19 million release clause in his contract.

This could make the “outrageous” forward one of the bargains of this summer window, especially after a phenomenal 24/25 haul of 12 goals and 20 assists in all competitions.

GMS also stated that the boldness of Tottenham’s offer to Cherki would be directly linked to their Europa League triumph, so now that they’re confirmed champions, Levy could make a more tempting proposal.

Their status as a Champions League side for next season now also makes Spurs a far more attractive proposition to players like the 21-year-old, so this could be one to watch in the coming weeks, with Cherki also being likened to Messi by former Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas.