All posts by z3u9t.icu

After a characteristically slow start, this summer is turning into a massive one for Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta’s side have already announced the signings of Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard and Kepa Arrizabalaga, and they don’t look close to being done there.

Andrea Berta and Co have finally agreed a deal in principle for Viktor Gyokeres, and then Noni Madueke’s arrival should be announced any day now.

Furthermore, links to £77m Real Madrid superstar Rodrygo won’t go away, and if recent reports are to be believed, they could soon sell a first-team regular, which could free up space and finances for the Brazilian superstar.

Why Arsenal would want to sign Rodrygo

Being the incredible player he is, there are several reasons why Arsenal would want to splash the cash on Rodrygo, such as his raw output.

Since the start of the 23/24 campaign, the “world-class superstar,” as dubbed by Luka Modrić, has scored 31 goals and provided 20 assists in 105 appearances, totalling 7159 minutes.

That means even though he has played out of his favour left-wing position for most of that period, the former Santos gem was still able to average a goal involvement every 2.05 games, or every 140.37 minutes.

Appearances

51

54

Minutes

3707′

3452′

Goals

17

14

Assists

9

11

Goal Involvements per Match

0.50

0.46

Minutes per Goal Involvement

142.57′

138.08′

Furthermore, while he would almost certainly spend most of his time at the Emirates off the left, his ability to play across the frontline would undoubtedly be another of the reasons Arteta and Co would want to bring him in.

It would allow him to cover for Bukayo Saka at times, or even start as a false nine and give the team a whole new dimension in challenging games.

Finally, the 24-year-old has also won all there is to win in the club game and played a crucial role in the Spanish giants’ multiple Champions League triumphs.

In other words, he’d bring some much-needed know-how to an already talented side who have been so close to getting it over the line on so many occasions now.

With all that said, bringing in a world-class talent like Rodrygo would be a massive financial commitment, although it looks like Arsenal might be making some changes to the squad, which could help facilitate it.

What Rodrygo's arrival would mean for Arsenal

With Gyokeres and Madueke set to join the club and then links to Eberechi Eze refusing to go away, it seems incredibly unlikely that Arsenal would sign Rodrygo without first making an attacking sale.

Transfer Focus

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

The likes of Saka and Kai Havertz aren’t going anywhere, and Gabriel Jesus is still out injured, so the options fall on the left-hand side.

Gabriel Martinelli was linked with a big-money move to Al Hilal earlier this summer, but it was then revealed to be nothing more than paper talk.

That then brings us to Leandro Trossard, and based on a recent report from Sport Bild’s Christian Falk, Bayern Munich are interested in him.

The German journalist has revealed that the Belgian international could be FC Hollywood’s “next big signing,” and while he makes no mention of how much the fee could be, reports from earlier this month claimed that the Gunners would want £20m.

According to separate reports from Just Arsenal, Bayern have already opened talks with the player’s camp regarding a move.

Appearances

54

56

Minutes

3452

3455′

Goals

14

10

Assists

11

10

Goal Involvements per Match

0.46

0.35

Minutes per Goal Involvement

138.08

172.75′

While the former Brighton & Hove Albion star has been a useful player for Arteta over the last two and a half years, it would be good money for a winger who is set to turn 31 at the end of the year, and wasn’t massively impactful last season.

For example, the “sensational” ace, as dubbed by journalist Charles Watts, produced 20 goal involvements in 56 appearances, totalling 3455 minutes, which comes out to a goal involvement every 2.8 games, or every 172.75 minutes.

In contrast, the Real monster scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists in 54 appearances, totalling 3452 minutes, which comes out to a goal involvement every 2.16 games, or every 138.08 minutes.

Ultimately, Trossard has been an undeniable success at Arsenal, but with where the team want to go and the players they need to take them there, this feels like the right time to say thank you and goodbye.

Gyokeres will adore him: Arsenal eyeing £80m star who "finishes like Henry"

The international ace would add even more quality to Arsenal’s frontline.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 14, 2025

Nottingham Forest are now in pole position ahead of rival interest from Everton in the race for an exciting homegrown attacking player.

Forest reach verbal agreement with new forward

The Reds have already added one attacker in the form of Igor Jesus to their ranks this summer from Brazilian side Botafogo, but given the fact the club are competing in Europe as well as the Premier League next season, Nuno Espirito Santo is keen to add more attacking options to his side.

Nottingham Forest "preparing" bid to sign £26m Europa League goalscorer

Forest are lining up a move for a forward.

ByDominic Lund Jul 20, 2025

Furthermore, Anthony Elanga’s exit to Newcastle United means there is a void in the starting XI, and Forest are keen to fill that by signing Dan Ndoye from Bologna. The 24-year-old has been with the Italian side since 2023 and has impressed domestically and internationally in recent seasons, so much so that he is now a genuine target for the Reds.

Forest have submitted a bid to sign Ndoye from Bologna, but on the player’s side, Ndoye has already verbally agreed a deal with the Reds as they look to beat teams such as Napoli and Crystal Palace to his signature.

Should the Switzerland international move to the City Ground, he could be joined by another forward-thinking player as a possible replacement for Morgan Gibbs-White.

Nottingham Forest lead Everton in Ramsey race

According to Football Insider, Nottingham Forest are now leading the race to sign Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa.

Football Insider previously reported that Aston Villa do want to keep hold of the 24-year-old, but an offer between £40-50 million would be enough to convince Villa to sell, and Forest would be able to get to this mark, with the possibility of Gibbs-White’s exit funding the move.

The Reds are not alone in their pursuit, as Everton are also in the race to sign the attacking midfielder, but the fact Forest can offer Ramsey European football places them ahead of the Toffees.

It was even reported back in May that Ramsey is unhappy at Villa Park due to lack of game time last season. Ramsey played 46 games in all competitions last season, but the attacking midfielder only started 25 of those games, as he struggled to get ahead of some of Unai Emery’s regular picks.

Apps

136

Goals

14

Assists

14

Ramsey, who has been dubbed “terrific” by former Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard in the past, is under contract at Villa Park until 2027, so should Forest make a considerable offer, the Villans could use him as a PSR sacrifice.

For Forest, Ramsey would likely be seen as a direct replacement for Gibbs-White, as the former England under-21 international can play as a number 10, while he can also feature on the left flank.

Chelsea are now just two games away from being crowned champions of the world.

Late on Friday night, the Blues booked their place in the Club World Cup semi-finals, thanks to a 2-1 victory over Palmeiras at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

Cole Palmer broke the deadlock early, only for Chelsea-bound Estêvão Willian to score a stunning equaliser, but Malo Gusto’s late cross was deflected into his own net by Agustín Giay as the Londoners prevailed in Pennsylvania.

Enzo Maresca’s team will now take on Fluminense in Tuesday’s semi-finals at MetLife Stadium, the third different Brazilian club they’ve faced this summer, firm favourites to reach the final, where either Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid await.

How to Watch the FIFA Club World Cup for Free

Everything you need to know about the Club World Cup.

ByCharlie Smith Jun 13, 2025

Meantime, Chelsea remain, as is their want, extremely busy in the transfer market, with João Pedro debuting off the bench on Friday, while Jamie Gittens has since arrived too, it could mean that another of their forward players is to take his leave.

The latest on Noni Madueke's Chelsea future

As reported by Sam Dean and Sam Wallace of the Telegraph, Arsenal are preparing a £50m bid for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke.

Meantime, David Ornstein of the Athletic notes that the England international has actually already ‘agreed personal terms’ with the Gunners, and this deal appears as though it could actually happen, with Madueke thereby becoming the tenth player to leave Chelsea for Arsenal in the modern era, six of which have done so since 2019.

William Gallas

2006

£5m

Lassana Diarra

2007

£6m

Yossi Benayoun

2011

Loan

Petr Čech

2015

£10m

David Luiz

2019

£8m

Willian

2020

Free

Jorginho

2023

£12m

Kai Havertz

2023

£65m

Raheem Sterling

2024

Loan

Kepa Arrizabalaga

2025

£5m

A real mixed bag there from an Arsenal perspective, with Chelsea supporters very much viewing their North London rivals as a bit of a dumping ground, but could a highly-rated teenager be moving in the opposite direction?

Chelsea targeting Madueke upgrade

According to a report by Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are closely monitoring Ethan Nwaneri’s contractual situation at Arsenal and are ‘ready to attack the situation’.

The 18-year-old, only eligible to sign a professional contract since March, currently has just one year remaining on his deal with the Gunners, and James McNicholas of the Athletic has reported that ‘talks are at a delicate stage’, with the club desperate to tie down ‘such a valuable prospect’.

He adds that, before committing to anything, the £47m-rated youngster wants to seek assurances over his playing time, following a breakout season at Arsenal, seeing 1,378 minutes of action across all competitions, including starting 11 Premier League matches, scoring nine goals.

For context, despite his age and the fact he played 1,246 fewer minutes, he only scored two fewer goals than Madueke across all competitions, underlining the immense potential and talent that he possesses.

Indeed, Nwaneri is only the third player to score nine goals before their 18th birthday for a Premier League club, after Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen, who weren’t bad, were they?

Described by Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout as a “magnificent talent”, he could well be the perfect long-term replacement for Madueke, but if it is indeed first-team opportunities that are the teenager’s priority, perhaps Chelsea are not the right club to join, considering all the wide-attacking options currently on their books.

Cole Palmer

23

95

Noni Madueke

23

91

Pedro Neto

25

49

Christopher Nkunku

27

60

Raheem Sterling

30

81

João Félix

25

40

Jamie Gittens

20

0

Mykhailo Mudryk*

24

73

Tyrique George

19

26

Kendry Páez

18

0

Estêvão Willian

18

0

Omari Kellyman

19

0

*currently banned for doping.

Fair to say, Maresca has a fair few options from which to choose out-wide, even if Mykhailo Mudryk is currently banned, while a couple of others are likely to depart, including the aforementioned Madueke and João Félix.

Nevertheless, might Nwaneri be the best of the lot?

Well, former Chelsea winger Joe Cole compared the teenager to Lionel Messi, following Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Leicester City in February, stating “you can’t mark him because he can go both ways… I don’t even want to say it, but it’s like Messi”.

Meantime, Lorihanna Balabanova of Total Football Analysis praises Nwaneri’s ‘versatility’ and phenomenal ‘potential’, adding that his ‘best attribute is his ability to find pockets and exploit spaces’.

Thus, it is clear that Nwaneri is a player who is poised to be a future star, and if there’s one thing Chelsea love, it is hoovering up such young talents, so will they strike again?

More exciting than Estevao: Chelsea chase one of "England's biggest jewels"

Chelsea could be looking to make a move for one of England’s finest talents

ByRoss Kilvington Jul 5, 2025

As they look to continue their spending after Fer Lopez, Wolverhampton Wanderers are now reportedly confident that they’ll win the race to sign a Premier League winner this summer.

Wolves pushing on after Lopez

Wolves have money to burn after selling both Matheus Cunha and Rayan Ait-Nouri and have already left a small dent in their budget by splashing out £19m to sign Lopez from Celta Vigo. Given that Cunha alone cost Manchester United £63m, however, it’s fair to say that Molineux chiefs could still have a fairly large budget to work with this summer.

With that budget in mind, it’s no surprise that several names have seemingly found themselves on Wolves’ radar this summer. And that includes Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi.

Vitor Pereira and co. have reportedly joined the race to sign the Colombian defender, whose £24m release clause is set to expire on July 10. With Wolves, Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur – among others – chasing his signature, the race to sign Lucumi is certainly hectic and is only set to heat up as the clock ticks down on his release clause.

Whether those in the Midlands can beat their Premier League rivals is the big question at Molineux. It would certainly show plenty of ambition if they managed to do so and ambition is exactly what they must show after losing key men this summer.

If Pereira is to pick up where he left off in his first full season in charge then replacing Cunha’s creativity will be particularly important. It won’t be an easy task to find the heir to the Brazilian’s throne but on Premier League gem would certainly be a strong candidate.

Wolves now confident they'll sign Harvey Elliott

According to Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider, Wolves are now confident that they’ll win the bidding war to sign Harvey Elliott this summer, who Liverpool value at £40m.

The young midfielder is one of the names likely to be shown the Anfield door at the right price in the coming months. Jarell Quansah has already suffered that fate and is on his way to Bayer Leverkusen. Now, Elliott could follow suit to join Wolves and receive a much-needed starting role.

Whilst there may be some concerns over Wolves’ ability to match his price tag, the departures of Cunha and Ait-Nouri should be able to help fund a move that would certainly be worthwhile.

Although he’s come off the back of a difficult first season under Arne Slot, it wasn’t so long ago that Elliott was on his way to becoming a key man under Jurgen Klopp, who was a huge admirer of the now Premier League winner.

Wolves join huge race to sign "excellent" defender as £24m deadline looms

He’s a wanted man…

ByTom Cunningham Jun 25, 2025

The former Reds boss told reporters when the young midfielder scored against Cardiff City on his return to injury in 2022: “Harvey was unlucky with the injury but lucky with the whole process afterwards.

“Everything went really well. He did an incredible job, the medical department did an incredible job. He is a fearless boy and a great footballer so all these things.”

Liverpool weathered waves of mockery last summer as they moved on from Jurgen Klopp’s shocking departure from his manager’s post by opting against any meaningful investment in the transfer market.

But scorn has since been silenced, with Arne Slot leading Liverpool to the 2024/25 Premier League title before handing the mic to sporting director Richard Hughes, whose dealings in the summer transfer window have been as impressive as they have been merciless.

What is next season’s objective? The retention of the Premier League? Winning the Champions League? The quadruple? FSG’s strategems are likely not so single-minded, with the ambitious scope of Liverpool’s spending instead indicating a desire to be named among the favourites of such competitions for many years to come. Year in, year out.

Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong are full-backs who will drive that vision, providing dynamic width for Slot’s side, and Giorgi Mamardashvili will challenge Alisson for the spot between the sticks.

However, Florian Wirtz is unquestionably the cream of the club’s window thus far.

What Florian Wirtz will bring to Liverpool

Liverpool have signed Bayer Leverkusen’s star man for a fixed £100m fee, which has the potential to rise to a British-record £116m.

Wirtz is only 22, but he’s already achieved greatness in his German homeland, winning the 2023/24 Bundesliga title with Leverkusen, who toppled Bayern Munich after so many years and did so without falling to a single defeat.

Oh, and he picked up the division’s Player of the Year award. Wirtz is a mobile number ten with a tendency to drift out onto the left, but he’s a fearsome weapon with standout technical quality, awareness, and vision that sets him apart from the rabble.

Will his ability translate to the Premier League? This, of course, is the million-dollar question which has proved insoluble for many high-profile arrivals who at first promised so much.

But Wirtz is different, with a robust physical profile and the makings of a superstar. Furthermore, he could find himself playing with one of the world’s best strikers, who Liverpool have not given up hope of signing this summer.

Liverpool still interested in superstar striker

Liverpool are interested in signing Alexander Isak. But for all the noise, those in the Newcastle United camp are adamant that the Sweden striker is going nowhere unless an offer is made to the tune of £200m, as per The Telegraph.

This feels unrealistic, it must be said. However, TEAMtalk have since followed the national paper’s claim by revealing Isak is keen on the move to Anfield, and that Liverpool would be tempted to lodge a £150m bid, including add-ons.

This is certainly one to keep an eye on, but it’s worth reiterating that the Magpies do not want to sell and will not roll over after sealing their spot in next year’s Champions League.

Why Liverpool should sign Alexander Isak

If the finances check out, there’s a growing sense Liverpool will pursue a deal.

Isak was named “the best striker in the world” by analyst Raj Chohan after his exploits last season, scoring 27 goals from 42 matches in all competitions as Newcastle returned to the Champions League and won the Carabao Cup, beating Slot’s side in the final and netting.

Mohamed Salah was the only man to outscore him in the Premier League, and with the Egyptian and Wirtz leading the supply line next year, now that Trent Alexander-Arnold has moved to Real Madrid, Reds fans could be in for a treat.

The 25-year-old Isak appears to have shaken from his game the injury issues that plagued him at times throughout his career. Now he is mature. Now, Isak has developed not only his technical quality but his strength and athleticism and durability too.

24/25 – Newcastle

34

23

6

23/24 – Newcastle

30

21

2

22/23 – Newcastle

22

10

2

21/22 – Sociedad

32

6

2

20/21 – Sociedad

34

17

2

Coming off the back of his personal best season, the Toon talisman is ready to take the step up in his career and realise his potential, joining a Liverpool side who have a vacant spot at number nine.

Well, not quite yet. Darwin Nunez is in the process of transferring to Serie A champions Napoli, and Isak would be a stunning upgrade on the wasteful Uruguayan, for pundit Alan Shearer has aptly named his boyhood club’s main man a “world-class assassin”.

While Isak’s quality stems from his goalscoring aptitude, he is differentiated from his positional peers through his slick movements, pacy and powerful and attuned to the processes of his opponents.

Likewise, it would be easy to categorise Wirtz as a sharp playmaker with an eye for goal, but he’s so much more. You’d hope so, in fairness, for a British-record fee.

Former Bayern Munich technical director Marco Neppe is certainly a fan, saying: “He is so brave. His skillset is dangerous for every opponent. He can change the momentum of a game just by having an idea nobody expects, and suddenly everything is different. He is a game changer.”

His ability to shift momentum through a range of skills that ensure those against him never know what’s coming next is perfect for Isak, whose shifty, lateral movements, pulling out wide or piledriving right through even iron-clad defences, will end in space perfect for a well-placed through ball.

Indeed, the German international ranked among the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Bundesliga last year for through balls, the top 5% for progressive passes and the top 6% for shot-creating actions per 90, as per FBref – and that’s just one part of his skill set.

The fact is, Liverpool already have one of the finest frontlines in world football, but now they have packaged it with Wirtz, and Isak could now follow.

The Scandinavian goalscorer is proven as one of football’s deadliest marksmen, but he’s so much more and could take that momentous leap by joining the party down Anfield Road.

Perfect Gordon alternative: Liverpool hold talks for "explosive" £43m star

Liverpool are looking to sign a new winger this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 20, 2025

It truly was the best and the worst of times for Tottenham Hotspur last season, and though Ange Postecoglou drove his side to glory in the Europa League, his wretched Premier League form led Daniel Levy to give him the boot.

Though there has been an outpouring of rueful emotion following the news, and though Ange will likely feel aggrieved after ending 17 years of searching for silverware in north London, finishing 17th in the league was unacceptable.

It is, of course, crucial that Spurs use this critical juncture as a launching pad for future fortunes, taking Postecoglou’s foundations and building sustainable success.

Mooted managerial targets such as Fulham’s Marco Silva and former boss Mauricio Pochettino, who has since led Chelsea, don’t quite speak of a step in the right direction.

But Brentford’s Thomas Frank certainly does.

Talks are advancing for Brentford’s boss, with the Lilywhites growing in confidence that a deal will be reached now the 51-year-old has informed his club of his wish to depart.

Change, then, is afoot. With Levy moving swiftly to get a deal done, Tottenham are expected to make changes to the first team.

Let’s have a look at exactly how Frank might put his stamp on his new team.

1 GK – Guglielmo Vicario

Guglielmo Vicario has suffered through his second season in a Tottenham shirt, but he kept a clean sheet in Bilbao and made a crucial save in the dying embers of the match.

With so much going on elsewhere, it looks like the Italian will continue to ward off competition from Antonín Kinský.

2 RB – Pedro Porro

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s transfer from Liverpool to Real Madrid ended Pedro Porro’s chance of moving to the Spanish capital, and though it’s been an up-and-down campaign for the right-back, he’s still an impactful and dynamic talent.

For sure, Djed Spence will be knocking on his door, but Frank’s more stable defensive game could actually see Porro go from strength to strength.

3 CB – Marc Guehi

Marc Guehi is a wanted man. Tottenham are on the case, but so too are Liverpool and Newcastle United believed to be suitors for the centre-back.

Cristian Romero is being linked with a transfer to Atletico Madrid. The Argentine is world-class, but routinely injured, and Guehi could wipe the slate clean.

Matches (starts)

34 (34)

18 (18)

Goals

3

1

Assists

2

0

Clean sheets

11

2

Touches*

64.9

78.8

Pass completion

84%

90%

Key passes*

0.5

0.4

Ball recoveries*

4.3

5.0

Tackles + interceptions*

2.6

3.1

Clearances*

4.6

2.9

Duels (won)*

4.9 (59%)

4.9 (61%)

Errors made

2

2

Worth as much as £70m, Guehi would cost a pretty penny, but his technical and defensive qualities and rare absences highlight his aptness as Romero’s heir. The best ability is availability, after all.

4 CB – Micky van de Ven

Romero may get sold, particularly with Ange now gone, but Micky van de Ven will be going nowhere. Athletic, imposing and a progressive passer, his form and fitness could see him become a defining linchpin of the prospective Frank era.

5 LB – Destiny Udogie

Only starting four Premier League matches in 2025 due to injury, Destiny Udogie hasn’t elicited the awe of football fans this year, but still remains one of the most powerful and high-potential defenders across Europe.

Recent interest from Manchester City, before Pep Guardiola’s side moved for Rayan Ait-Nouri, indicates the strength of his skill set and how he could still become a first-class full-back.

Improvements, though, need to be seen. Perhaps he could take influence from how Frank crafted Rico Henry into a better player in west London.

6 CM – Lucas Bergvall

It’s crazy to think Lucas Bergvall is still only 19, thrown right into the deep end last season, playing 45 matches across all competitions.

The Swedish talent will only continue to improve, and if he takes the right steps, could become a fixed feature in Tottenham’s senior squad.

7 CM – Morten Hjulmand

TEAMtalk believe Tottenham are ready to make their move for Sporting Lisbon’s Morten Hjulmand, who is also wanted by Man United. The Dane could cost around £50m.

Neither Rodrigo Bentancur nor Yves Bissouma have really cut the mustard, and both strugglers are on the verge of entering their final year at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Hjulmand is tenacious and a tough tackler, more of a natural six than the aforementioned, and he might just prove a huge difference-maker.

8 RW – Leroy Sane

Leroy Sane may end up leaving Bayern Munich this summer, and should the German winger do so, Tottenham could reportedly be there to tempt him back to the Premier League.

Though the 29-year-old has lost some of his raw pace (37th in the Bundesliga for highest-clocked speed last term), he still scored 11 goals from just 17 league starts.

This could be Frank’s new Mbeumo…

9 AM – Dejan Kulusevski

Dejan Kulusevski had surgery on a patella injury last month and will be sidelined for several months, but he’s still one of the most important players down N17.

He might not be as naturally prolific as James Maddison, but Deki’s industriousness and ball retention have seen him step toward the upper echelon of top midfielders, and he may well keep the Three Lions star on the bench.

10 LW – Eberechi Eze

Aside from keeping Postecoglou in the dugout, this could be the summer-defining move. Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze has been heavily linked with Tottenham of late, and with a £68m release clause, could mark the marquee move of the off-season.

FA Cup “superstar” – as he’s been described by football analyst Ben Mattinson – Eze would be an incredible addition, replacing Heung-min Son at left wing. Son scored himself a fairytale ending by winning the Europa League, but recent reports suggest a fee could be generated for the 32-year-old, who is the latest high-profile Saudi Pro League target.

Eze’s pace and silky athleticism would prove the perfect way to replace the legendary skipper, that and his potency, posting 14 goals and 11 assists across the campaign.

As Newcastle United look to solve their goalkeeper problem, a new option has reportedly emerged as one to watch in what would be one of the most surprising moves of the summer.

Newcastle's goalkeeper problem

Since last summer, Newcastle’s interest in James Trafford has been a fairly open secret. Reports even suggested that the Burnley shot-stopper had already agreed terms with the Magpies. One year on, however, Burnley are back in the Premier League and it remains to be seen whether the England international will complete a long-awaited move.

If it’s not to be Trafford, then whether Newcastle turn their attention elsewhere is the big question. Current No.1 Nick Pope had more injury problems throughout the 2024/25 campaign and with both him and Martin Dubravka not getting any younger, Eddie Howe could certainly do with a fresh face in between the sticks this summer.

Starts

28

10

Saves per 90

3.07

2.90

Save Percentage

71.7%

70.7%

Clean Sheets

8

5

The numbers do not paint a pretty picture for those at St James’ Park- the fact that Pope missed 10 Premier League games should send alarm bells ringing around Tyneside. With Champions League football to balance alongside domestic action next season, the last thing that Howe needs is for his No.1 to miss an extended period through injury again.

PIF should have money to spend this time around following a frustrating period amid PSR issues, and a large sum of that money should be spent on giving Howe a major upgrade in between the sticks. If recent reports are anything to go by though, the Magpies could be in for a shock on that front.

Fraser Forster is "one to keep an eye on"

According to The Daily Mail’s Craig Hope, Fraser Forster is now “one to keep an eye on” as Newcastle look to sign another goalkeeper. The shot-stopper is likely to replace Odysseas Vlachodimos if he does arrive, with the former Nottingham Forest man among players who are likely to be shown the door at St James’ Park this summer.

Signing Forster, even if Vlachodimos departs, would remain a surprising move by Newcastle. Their current crop of goalkeepers is already an ageing one and adding a 37-year-old to that would hardly ease that problem – especially one who reportedly earns £75,000-a-week.

The Tottenham goalkeeper is still someone who earned the praise of Ange Posescoglou back in December, however, with the Australian telling reporters after Forster’s mistake against Liverpool: “He’s disappointed as well, because he was outstanding for us [before]. He didn’t have a lot to do before then. And even the first half, I thought he was really good with his feet.”

Whilst Forster is a player with plenty of experience, what is clear is that Newcastle will need more than just his arrival to solve their shot-stopping problems this summer.

Chelsea can end the 2024/25 campaign in the perfect way on Wednesday night. They face Real Betis in the UEFA Conference League final at the Stadion Wroclaw in Wroclaw, Poland, and have the opportunity to finish Enzo Maresca’s first season in charge with a trophy.

The Blues have been the dominant side in the competition this term. According to Sofascore, they have scored more goals than any other side, finding the back of the net 38 times, which is 16 more than their opponents. Their nine goals conceded were only bettered by two other sides, too.

The Blues surely go into this game as favourites, given their form in the competition so far. Indeed, Maresca seems to have much of his first-choice squad available for their final game of the campaign.

Chelsea’s team news vs. Betis

Luckily for the Blues, their final Premier League game of 2024/25 last Sunday saw them avoid any inquiries. That means star players, including Cole Palmer and Moises Caicedo, will be available for the final this evening.

Further inclusions and absences have been noted, with there two first-team players who will certainly not make the squad this week. They are Wesley Fofana, who is still out with an injury, and Romeo Lavia, who is not registered in the squad.

On a more positive note, Nicolas Jackson will come back into the squad for the finale, given his Premier League suspension is not in effect in European competition. Another player who could return is Christopher Nkunku.

The Frenchman was not involved against Nottingham Forest on Sunday, but his record in the Conference League is excellent. He has five goals and three assists in nine games in the competition, so he could make a real difference.

With that in mind, it will be fascinating to see who Maresca lines up with on Wednesday. Given the importance of the game, it seems the likes of Palmer, Caicedo and club captain Reece James will start, in what will surely be a strong lineup.

Robert Sanchez

Goalkeeper

Marc Cucurella

Left-back

Levi Colwill

Centre back

Trevoh Chalobah

Centre back

Reece James

Right-back

Moises Caicedo

Central midfield

Enzo Fernandez

Central midfield

Noni Madueke

Right wing

Cole Palmer

Attacking midfield

Jadon Sancho

Left wing

Nicolas Jackson

Centre-forward

Another player who could be in line to start the game is defender Trevoh Chalobah.

Why Chalobah could start vs. Betis

It has been a curious season for Chalobah in 2024/25. After spending the first half of the campaign on loan at Crystal Palace, he was recalled to Stamford Bridge and has since been an important player under Maresca.

Since returning from his loan spell, the “outstanding” defender, as Statman Dave once called him, has featured 18 times across all competitions, with four of those games coming in the Conference League.

The 25-year-old has helped to keep two clean sheets in that time, playing a total of 245 minutes in the competition. Now, perhaps he will be in line to start the final. He is a player experienced in European finals, having helped Chelsea win the UEFA Super Cup back in 2021, a game which he started and played 120 minutes.

The defensive “monster”, as described by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has been called up to former boss Thomas Tuchel’s latest England squad, although he did not start at the weekend. However, if he does come into the team for the final, potentially for Tosin, he will have the job of keeping Antony quiet.

The Manchester United loanee has been a standout player during his loan spell at Betis. In 25 games, he has nine goals and five assists. Half of those goal involvements have come in the Conference League, so he really does his best work there.

In fact, the Brazilian is similar to Palmer on FBref for this competition. For example, he averages 0.47xGA and 5.02 shot-creating actions each game. In comparison, Chelsea’s number 20 averages 0.48xGA and 4.11 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes.

It will be a tough task for Chalobah to keep Antony quiet, but it will surely be crucial for Chelsea’s success. He has proven in the past few months that he has the potential to hurt opponents when given time and space, so Chalobah’s excellent reading of the game will be crucial to preventing that.

Although the winger does operate on the right-hand side, he tends to drift inside a lot and look to cut in on his left foot to get a shot off. Thus, Chalobah may well have to come up against him directly.

However, that is a battle the Chelsea defender should be comfortable handling. His defensive stats for the Blues this season, via Sofascore, are impressive. For example, he averages 1.8 combined tackles and interceptions and wins 1.9 aerial duels per game. On top of that, he has been dribbled past just once in that famous Blue shirt this term.

If he does get the nod from the start, the boyhood Chelsea star has the chance to become a key player for the Blues as they look to win more European silverware. They could become the first side in history to win the three current European trophies. Chalobah has a huge role to play.

He's better than Joao Pedro: Chelsea hold talks to sign "the new Haaland"

Chelsea appears to be in talks to bring a new striker to the club

ByRoss Kilvington May 26, 2025

Manchester United are now eyeing a shock move to sign an “unbeatable” goalkeeper for a bargain £17m fee in the summer transfer window, according to a report.

Man Utd drawing up goalkeeper shortlist

Andre Onana has put in some very disappointing performances as of late, with his late blunder against Lyon last Thursday night costing his side a crucial away win in the Europa League quarter-final, and Man United have now started to draw up a list of replacements.

FC Porto’s Diogo Costa has been named as a leading candidate to replace Onana, but with the Portugal international protected by a £64m release clause in his contract, the Red Devils will have to pay a hefty sum if they are to get a deal over the line.

As such, United could look at some cheaper alternatives, and they have also joined the race for Angers shot-stopper Yahia Fofana, who is attracting widespread interest from the Premier League, having put in some impressive performances in Ligue 1 this season.

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Fofana may cost just £15m this summer, making the Ivory Coast international an affordable option, and the same applies to Torino goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, with Man United now interested in a shock move for their former academy player, who spent 18 months in the acadmey between 2014 and 2016.

That is according to a report from Italy (via Sport Witness), which states Milinkovic-Savic has a release clause of just €20m (£17m), which is set to become active at the end of July.

Torino owner Urbano Cairo is eager to receive the full amount, but United believe the goalkeeper’s value is around €12m (£10m), so the two clubs may still be some way apart, and there could be competition for his signature from Premier League rivals Chelsea.

"Unbeatable" Milinkovic-Savic impressing in Italy

The 28-year-old is enjoying a very impressive campaign in the Serie A, having been lauded as “unbeatable” for his record of saving penalties, while he has also looked very solid in general play.

The Serbian ranks extremely highly on a number of key metrics for goalkeepers over the past year, and he places in the top 2% for touches per 90, indicating he is composed in possession of the ball, which may be of key significance to Ruben Amorim.

Statistic

Average per 90

Save percentage

78.7% (95th percentile)

Goals against

1.06 (83rd percentile)

Touches

48.0 (98th percentile)

Save percentage (penalties)

57.1% (92nd percentile)

Amorim has confirmed that Onana will start for United against Lyon in the crucial Europa League encounter on Thursday evening, but the Cameroonian could be running out of chances, having been dropped for Altay Bayindir against Newcastle United last weekend.

Should the former Inter Milan man fail to make major improvements between now and the end of the season, it seems likely Amorim will bring in a replacement, having identified a number of targets, and Milinkovic-Savic has proven he could be a fantastic choice.

Everton are in a fantastic position to kick on under David Moyes and could look to strike a deal for an exciting international to join their revolution at Bramley Moore Dock.

Everton ready for stadium move under David Moyes

Goodison Park will soon be consigned to the history books, and an emotional farewell to their home beckons against Southampton next month before moving across the city to the newly furnished Everton Stadium.

David Moyes will hope to take the Toffees’ magnificent form with them to new pastures. Following their last-gasp victory over Nottingham Forest, the Scot has lost just three of his 14 matches in charge, and his side are among the form teams in the Premier League.

Painting a pretty picture in the early stages of the Friedkin Group’s reign, Everton will hope to move the needle in the transfer market to bolster a squad in need of surgery.

According to reports, The Toffees are keen on Sevilla defender Juanlu Sanchez alongside a host of other clubs amid his potential availability for £15 million this summer.

Benfica striker Vangelis Pavlidis is also said to be on Everton’s radar, but the Greek striker’s mammoth £80 million release clause may complicate negotiations between all parties.

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Either way, there are plenty of decisions to be made internally before structuring the layout of Moyes’ options in 2025/26. Abdoulaye Doucoure is open to a new deal, though several of his teammates are out of contract or are coming to the end of loan stints on Merseyside.

While progress is made on tough decisions, Moyes and company are now eyeing an ambitious move for an international player that could be open to a change of scenery.

Everton look to sign Facundo Medina from RC Lens

According to CaughtOffside, Everton are closely monitoring Facundo Medina’s situation at RC Lens and may look to strike a deal north of £30 million to sign the Argentina international.

Open to a new challenge in the summer, the 25-year-old, who can play left or centre-back, is also on the radar of Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, West Ham United, Bayer Leverkusen and AS Roma.

Facundo Medina’s excellent Ligue 1 campaign – 2024/25

Accurate long balls

72

Chances created

23

Tackles won

25

Recoveries

145

Assists

1

Average match rating

7.11

Intriguingly, Lens find themselves in financial disrepute, and they plan to sell the defender while his stock is high, alleviating pressure to balance the books. Labelled “elite” by Ben Mattinson, sought-after Medina has also completed 62 shot-creating actions on league duty, placing him in the 99th percentile for this metric among defenders in Europe’s top-five leagues.

Evaluating Everton’s situation, Jarrad Branthwaite is likely to attract interest this summer, and it may make sense to scope out potential replacements for the Three Lions international.

Medina is left-footed and has a similar habit of excelling in possession, creating suspicion that he may be the preferred option to become a long-term successor to the Toffees star.