Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has come under fire for his on-field conduct during the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final against Paris Saint-Germain, with former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson slamming the Dutchman for berating teammate Joe Gomez.
The incident occurred during a tense second half at the Parc des Princes, where Liverpool eventually fell to a 2-0 defeat.
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As the Reds struggled to cope with the pace of PSG’s wide men, Van Dijk was caught by cameras furiously gesturing and shouting at Gomez following a missed defensive rotation.
Virgil van Dijk criticised for berating Joe Gomez
Pundit Paul Robinson, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, was quick to condemn the captain’s body language, suggesting that Van Dijk’s tendency to publicly target his teammates is becoming a recurring issue.
“Virgil van Dijk once again criticising his teammates,” Robinson remarked. “There is no need for Van Dijk to criticise Joe Gomez when he didn’t overlap him.”
Gomez has often been a reliable partner for Van Dijk, but the lack of cohesion at the heart of the defense was ruthlessly exploited by PSG’s Kvicha Kvaratskhelia just minutes later for the home side’s second goal.
The atmosphere at the club is at an all-time low
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The attitude is being viewed by many as a symptom of a much deeper problem at Anfield.
Following a brutal 4-0 FA Cup exit to Manchester City just days ago, after which Van Dijk admitted the team “gave up”, the cracks in the squad’s unity are widening.
With 16 defeats now recorded across all competitions this season, the pressure on manager Arne Slot has reached a breaking point.
As Liverpool head back to Merseyside for the second leg, they face the near-impossible task of overturning a two-goal deficit against the European champions.
Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte has been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season.
The 24-year-old does not have a future at Old Trafford, and Manchester United are looking to cash in on him. They are hoping to recoup £35 million for the Uruguay International.
Manchester United need to invest in a quality defensive midfielder with Casemiro leaving the club in the summer. Selling Ugarte will bring in the necessary funds to improve the team. According to Sky journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Juventus are interested in providing the player with an exit route. They will also face competition from Premier League clubs Newcastle and Aston Villa.
Tavolieri explained on Sky: “Juventus are closely monitoring the situation and believe that qualifying for the UEFA Champions League would significantly boost their chances of completing the transfer. United value their player at around £35 million, and concrete discussions could begin as early as May or June, particularly regarding the structure of the transfer. But the Old Lady is not alone: Newcastle, Aston Villa and other clubs are also monitoring the situation.”
The South American midfielder has not been able to adapt to Premier League football and the opportunity to leave England could be exciting for him. Juventus among the biggest clubs in the world and I moved to Italy, Italy could be ideal for him. The lower intensity of Italian football could be a good fit for the player. It could help him rediscover himself and regain his form and confidence.
Newcastle and Aston Villa have ambitious projects as well, and it remains to be seen whether they can promise regular gametime. With the right assurance, they might be able to convince the midfielder to join the club.
Leeds United’s Brazilian goalkeeper Lucas Perri is reportedly growing increasingly frustrated with his bit-part role at Elland Road, with journalist Jorge Nicola suggesting a summer exit is now firmly on the agenda.
The 28-year-old arrived from Lyon last summer for €16 million with the expectation of being Daniel Farke’s undisputed number one.
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However, after a “terrible fall from grace” that saw him lose his Premier League starting spot following a string of high-profile mistakes, Perri now finds himself effectively demoted to a cup specialist.
Brazilian clubs eyeing Lucas Perri
The lack of league minutes has significant ramifications for Perri’s international ambitions. Despite being in the Brazil national team picture previously, the goalkeeper has failed to make a squad under Carlo Ancelotti for 12 months.
With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, sitting on the bench in West Yorkshire is viewed as a vulnerable position.
As per the journalist, Perri’s camp is viewing a return to Brazil positively, believing that regular football in his home country would provide the platform needed to rebuild his momentum and catch Ancelotti’s eye.
Several Brazilian clubs are understood to be monitoring the situation, ready to offer the shot-stopper the leading role he craves.
Lucas Perri’s FA Cup heroics
While Perri’s league status remains precarious, having been replaced by the resurgent Karl Darlow, who has cemented his place with back-to-back clean sheets against Crystal Palace and Brentford, the Brazilian has remained a standout performer in knockout football.
Just this past Sunday, Perri was the undisputed hero as Leeds United reached the FA Cup semi-finals for the first time since 1987.
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After a 2-2 draw with West Ham, Perri saved two penalties in the shootout to secure a 4-2 win.
Despite these heroics, and a looming Wembley date against Chelsea, the reality remains that Perri has started just two matches since being dropped from the league XI.
With Daniel Farke seemingly settled on Darlow’s authoritative presence for the Premier League run-in, Perri’s “outstanding” cup form may serve as a perfect audition for a transfer away from the club this summer.
Chelsea and Arsenal are interested in signing the Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall at the end of the season.
According to reports from Spain, Chelsea is now leading the race for the 21-year-old left back. It will be interesting to see if Arsenal can get the deal done.
It is no secret that Chelsea needs more quality and depth at left-back. Marc Cucurella has been inconsistent, and Chelsea would be open to sanctioning his departure. Signing the Newcastle United defender would be ideal for them. He is one of the best young fullbacks in the Premier League, and he could prove to be an excellent long-term investment.
Hall has proven himself a reliable defender in the Premier League and has impressed with his attacking contributions as well. He is clearly good enough to play for the biggest club in the country, and moving to Chelsea could be the ideal next step in his career.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have ample depth in the defensive department, and it remains to be seen whether they can accommodate Hall in the starting lineup. There is no doubt that the 21-year-old has the quality to play for the Gunners. He could add a new dimension to the Arsenal team. Apart from his defensive qualities, he will help them going forward as well. Arsenal are lacking a left back who can influence the game on the overlap. Hall could be the ideal acquisition.
Newcastle will not want to lose the 21-year-old easily. He is a tremendous talent and a key player for them. The report claims that Newcastle will not negotiate for a figure below £70 million. It remains to be seen whether Chelsea or Arsenal is ready to pay up.
Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Garcia has been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season.
The 22-year-old is highly rated across Europe, and he needs regular football to continue his development. Real Madrid have not been able to provide him with that opportunity, and naturally, he is being linked with an exit in the summer.
Newcastle United have done extensive groundwork on the player, and they are hoping to secure his signature in the coming weeks.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, signing a quality striker is an absolute priority for Newcastle, and they believe that Garcia would be a superb investment. They feel they have not been able to replace Alexander Isak, and it remains to be seen whether they can sign the Real Madrid player.
Newcastle are looking at multiple other strikers, but Garcia is now emerging as a serious option for them. They will be able to provide him with regular opportunities, and moving to England could be ideal for the 22-year-old striker as well.
Newcastle will be able to provide him with the platform he needs, and regular Premier League football could accelerate his development. Garcia is a tremendous talent with a big future, and he has the attributes to develop into a star for Newcastle.
It remains to be seen whether the Magpies can secure an agreement with Real Madrid. The Spanish outfit will not be too keen on letting the Spanish under-21 international leave the club. They are fully aware that he is an elite talent with a bright future. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
The player has six goals and two assists in all competitions this season. Regular football in England could bring out the best in him and help him establish himself as a prolific goalscorer.
Elliot Anderson has been linked with a move away from Nottingham Forest at the end of the season and the two Manchester clubs are keen on him.
Manchester City are reportedly in the lead for his signature, but Nottingham Forest are keen on a bidding war so that they can recoup as much as possible for the young midfielder.
It remains to be seen whether that provides Manchester United with the opportunity to sign the 23-year-old defensive midfielder in the summer. They need to sign a quality long-term replacement for Casemiro, and the former Newcastle star could be an excellent addition.
“With Elliot Anderson, which one club benefits massively from multiple clubs being interested? Nottingham Forest,” Bailey revealed to TEAMtalk.
“They don’t want anyone to think that Manchester City have this tied down – they want a bidding war and that is completely understandable. They want top-of-the-market price, they want to be able to get a deal into three figures.
“Is Anderson worth £100million? There is that age old argument that nobody is, but in the current market it is hard not to see him in that bracket, his stock is going up and up.”
Anderson has the quality to play for the biggest club in the country, and he could prove to be an excellent addition for Manchester United or Manchester City. It remains to be seen whether the interested clubs are willing to pay a premium for him. Nottingham Forest is looking to recoup around £100 million for the midfielder.
Along with Manchester United, Manchester City also needs a quality defensive midfielder. Rodri has not been at his best since returning from injury, and they need more support in that area of the pitch. It will be interesting to see which of the two clubs can get the deal done.
Pascal Struijk could be on his way out of Leeds United at the end of the season.
The 26-year-old central defender has a contract with the Premier League club until 2027, and he could be available for a reasonable amount of money in the summer.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Aston Villa are planning to submit an offer for the Netherlands defender in the summer. Tottenham and Newcastle are lurking in the background as well, and they could look to make a move.
It remains to be seen where the 26-year-old central defender ends up. He has shown his quality in the Premier League, and he could prove a very useful addition to all three clubs. The opportunity to join Aston Villa, Tottenham or Newcastle will be attractive for him. It would be a step up in his career.
Aston Villa is pushing for Champions League qualification and will look to add more quality and depth to the team if they finish in the top four. Adding more defensive depth could be ideal for them.They have a competitive team and a quality manager. Struijk will certainly fancy the opportunity of playing for them next season.
On the other hand, Tottenham had a disappointing season, and they will look to bounce back strongly next year. They need quality additions in the summer to tighten up at the back. Struijk could help them defensively if he joins the club.
As for Newcastle, they need long-term replacements for Dan Burn and Fabian Schar. The Netherlands defender could be the ideal acquisition for them. He is at the peak of his career, and this is the right time for him to take the next step.
Stuttgart midfielder Angelo Stiller has been linked with a move to the Premier League in recent months.
According to FussballDaten, Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly interested in securing his signature. The German International midfielder has a contract with Stuttgart until 2028 and includes a €40 million release clause.
However, they have an option to remove the release clause by paying €2 million, and the German club could demand around €65 million for the midfielder in the summer, if they manage to remove his release clause over the next few weeks.Stuttgart view the player as “untouchable”.
The two Premier League clubs are closely monitoring the player and hoping to secure his signature in the summer. Manchester United need a quality replacement for Casemiro, and the 24-year-old German International could be ideal for them. He is excellent at protecting the back four and winning the ball back for his team. He will allow the creative players to operate with more freedom. In addition to his defensive qualities, he is quite accomplished on the ball and has been compared to Toni Kroos.
It will be interesting to see if Manchester United is willing to break the Bank for him.
Meanwhile, Liverpool could use more quality and depth in the middle of the park as well. They need a reliable defensive midfielder, and Stiller would be an excellent addition. His arrival will allow Ryan Gravenberch to operate in his natural role. The Netherlands International has been used as a defensive midfielder, but he has struggled in that role.
Both Premier League clubs could be exciting destinations for the midfielder. It will be interesting to see where he ends up.
The player is reportedly looking for a salary of around €7-9 million per season. The two Premier League clubs have the financial muscle to accept his demands. It remains to be seen whether they come forward with an official offer in the summer.
Chelsea and Newcastle United are interested in signing the AS Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar at the end of the season.
The 26-year-old has been one of the best goalkeepers in European football this season, and he could cost around €50 million, as per SiamoLaRoma. It will be interesting to see if Chelsea or Newcastle follow up on their interest with an official offer to sign the player.
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Chelsea could use Mile Svilar
It is no secret that they need a reliable goalkeeper at the end of the season. Chelsea need to find a quality alternative to Robert Sanchez. The Spanish goalkeeper has been heavily criticised for his inconsistent performances this season. Chelsea need an upgrade on him, and Svilar would be an excellent addition. He has been the best goalkeeper in Italy this season, and he has the quality to succeed in the Premier League.
Svilar is at the peak of his career, and he could sort out the Chelsea goalkeeping situation for the foreseeable future. On the other hand, Newcastle United need a quality long-term replacement for Nick Pope. The goalkeeper is in his 30s, and he will need to be replaced.
Chelsea and Newcastle have the financial muscle to pay €50 million for the AS Roma goalkeeper, and it remains to be seen whether they come forward with an official offer to get the deal done.
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The 26-year-old will be excited about the possibility of competing in the Premier League next season. It would be a huge step up in his career, and he could get to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world.
Chelsea could provide him with the platform to fight for trophies. Newcastle have an ambitious project as well. They won the League Cup last season, and they played Champions League football this season. It remains to be seen where Svilar ends up.
Liverpool are interested in signing the Hoffenheim winger Bazoumana Toure at the end of the season.
They have been keeping tabs on his progress, and they sent scouts to watch the 20-year-old in action last month (h/t SportWitness). The Ivorian winger has shown tremendous potential, and he could prove to be a quality long-term investment for Liverpool. It is no secret that the defending Premier League champions are looking to add more quality on the flanks.
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Liverpool could use Bazoumana Toure
Mohamed Salah has announced that he will leave the club in the summer, and the Reds need to fill the void left by the Egyptian. In addition, they have yet to properly replace Luis Diaz, and they need to invest in more than one winger during the summer transfer window.
Toure could be a superb long-term investment for them, and he could develop into a player for the club. He has proven himself in German football, and he has the technical attributes and explosive pace to succeed in the Premier League as well.
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The opportunity to join Liverpool will be exciting for him. They are among the biggest clubs in the world, and they have been competing for major trophies in recent seasons.
This has been a disappointing campaign for them, but they are still very much in the race for Champions League qualification. Any young player will be attracted to the idea of joining them. The player is valued at €40 million, and Liverpool have the resources to afford him. It remains to be seen whether they come forward with an official offer at the end of the season.
Sao Paulo attacker Lucca Marques is a target for Premier League club Arsenal at the end of the season.
The 18-year-old attacker has attracted the attention of the Premier League club, and they are now leading the race for his signature. According to a report from German publication BILD, they will look to secure his signature in the summer. Borussia Dortmund are also keen on Marques.
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Arsenal could use Lucca Marques
They could use more quality and depth in the attacking unit, and the 18-year-old could be a handy option for them in the final third. Although he is a left-sided winger, he is versatile enough to slot into either flank. He will add close control, pace, and unpredictability to the team.
Arsenal have invested in players like Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke at the start of the season. However, both players have been underwhelming. Arsenal needs more cutting-edge in the wide area,s and investing in the talented young Brazilian could be a wise decision.
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He might not be ready for the Premier League just yet, but he is a talented player with a bright future, and he could be groomed into an important first-team player for the club. It remains to be seen whether Arsenal can negotiate a reasonable deal to sign the player.
Convincing the attacker to join the club will not be difficult. They are among the biggest clubs in the world, and they have an ambitious project. The 18-year-old will be attracted to the idea of joining them.
Regular football in the Premier League could be ideal for his development and accelerate his growth. Arsenal have a rich history of nurturing young players, and they could help him fulfil his potential.
Chelsea were interested in signing the Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado during the summer transfer window.
The 22-year-old midfielder did not want to leave his boyhood club, and he decided to stay. However, he has struggled for regular opportunities this season. Casado has had just 865 minutes of La Liga football this season, and he needs to play more often.
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Marc Casado needs a move
He is a talented player with a big future, and sitting on the bench at Barcelona will not benefit him. According to a report from publication SPORT via SportWitness, the player’s agent, Jorge Mendes, could be looking for a new destination for his client in the summer.
He will be hungry for regular opportunities, and his determination to succeed will be a bonus for the Blues. Casado is likely to be available for a reasonable fee as well. The current situation will certainly serve as encouragement for the London club if they are truly interested in signing the Barcelona player. It remains to be seen whether they can capitalise on the situation and secure the 22-year-old’s services.
Casado has the technical attributes to succeed in the Premier League, and he could develop into an important player for Chelsea. The Blues have done well to groom young players in the past, and they could play a key role in his development. The opportunity to join one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League, especially if they can offer him regular opportunities, will be hard to turn down for the young midfielder.
Aston Villa have been handed a major Champions League boost following Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Sporting CP on Tuesday night.
The result in Lisbon has mathematically secured an extra European qualification spot for the Premier League, providing Unai Emery’s side with a significant safety net in their quest for elite continental football.
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The narrow win for the Gunners acted as the final catalyst in the UEFA coefficient race, ensuring that England will finish in the top two of the season rankings.
Premier League to have at least five Champions League spots
Under UEFA’s “European Performance Spot” rules, the two associations whose clubs perform best across the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League earn an additional automatic entry.
With Arsenal’s latest win, England has moved to an untouchable coefficient average of 25.013, clear of rivals Spain and Italy.
This means that the once “Top Four” race has officially transformed into a “Top Five” battle.
For clubs like Aston Villa, Manchester United, and Liverpool, the confirmation of a fifth spot changes the landscape of the final seven games of the season, significantly reducing the pressure of a potential late-season slip-up.
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Aston Villa in pole position for top-four finish
Despite the new safety net of a fifth-place spot, Aston Villa remain in a commanding position to qualify on their own merits.
Villa currently sit in 4th place with 54 points from 31 games, five points clear of 5th-placed Liverpool.
Position
Team
Games Played
Points
GD
3
Manchester United
31
55
+13
4
Aston Villa
31
54
+5
5
Liverpool
31
49
+8
6
Chelsea
31
48
+15
With Unai Emery’s men boasting a five-point cushion and only seven matches remaining, the chances of Villa qualifying for the Champions League for the second time in three years is high.
Borussia Dortmund are now back in for the potential transfer of their former player Jadon Sancho, as confirmed by the club’s managing director Lars Ricken.
Speaking exclusively to CaughtOffside, German football journalist Christian Falk provided us with his insight into the Sancho situation as he could now be set for a third spell with Dortmund.
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Falk says Dortmund are now analysing if Sancho could improve their squad as he looks like a good market opportunity due to the fact that he’ll be out of contract with Manchester United this summer.
Sancho is currently on loan at Aston Villa and will surely not be staying there after a lack of impact, but it seems BVB would be open to working with him again after he previously shone during his first spell there as a youngster, and again on loan two years ago.
Why Dortmund changed their mind about Jadon Sancho
“I think before Dortmund wasn’t sure if they’d go for Sancho because he wasn’t playing so well in recent seasons.
“But now they see a big chance, because they know they can make him better, and he’s now cheaper. He knows he can’t get the same kind of salary as before.
“The last time he was at Dortmund he showed that he can be important for this team and Dortmund is searching for this position.
“They know that Karim Adeyemi could leave the club in the summer and they need a new star. So a few months ago they weren’t sure about Sancho, but now everything changed.”
Sancho looked like such an exciting prospect in his first spell at Dortmund and it’s been quite a surprise to see him struggle so much during his time in the Premier League.
The 26-year-old possibly made the wrong choice in moving to Man Utd when he did, with so many other big prospects also struggling at Old Trafford in recent times.
Jadon Sancho
Games
Goals
Borussia Dortmund
137
50
Manchester United
83
12
Borussia Dortmund (loan)
21
3
Chelsea (loan)
41
5
Aston Villa (loan)
31
1
Sancho will now have the chance for a fresh start this summer when he becomes a free agent, and returning to Dortmund could be the best way for him to revive his career.
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Interest in Atalanta full-back Marco Palestra is intensifying across Europe, with Liverpool and Barcelona reportedly positioning themselves at the front of a growing queue of suitors.
The 21-year-old Italy international, currently gaining valuable experience on loan at Cagliari, has emerged as one of the most promising young right-backs in Serie A.
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According to reports from TEAMtalk, several elite clubs are tracking his development closely, including Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea, highlighting the scale of competition expected if he becomes available this summer.
With an estimated valuation of around €45 million, Palestra represents a significant investment, but one that many clubs appear willing to consider given the shortage of high-quality, defensively reliable full-backs in the modern game.
Breakthrough season at Cagliari elevates Palestra’s reputation
Palestra’s loan spell at Cagliari has played a key role in accelerating his development.
Having progressed through Atalanta’s highly respected youth system, widely known for producing technically gifted defenders, the young right-back has used his time at Cagliari to gain consistent top-flight minutes.
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Those appearances have allowed him to refine his defensive positioning, improve his physical presence, and demonstrate maturity beyond his years.
Italian media and scouting reports have highlighted Palestra’s defensive reliability as one of his standout attributes.
Unlike many modern full-backs who prioritize attacking output, Palestra has built his reputation on strong tackling, intelligent positioning, and disciplined defensive awareness.
These qualities are particularly appealing to clubs seeking greater defensive balance on the right side of their back line.
His performances have also earned recognition at international level, with Italy selectors reportedly viewing him as part of the country’s long-term defensive plans.
Regular involvement in national team discussions often serves as confirmation of a player’s consistency and potential, further boosting his reputation across Europe.
In recent seasons, the club has relied heavily on attacking full-backs, particularly on the right side, where creativity and forward movement have been prioritised.
However, there has been growing discussion in English media about the need for a more defensively focused option, especially in matches where defensive solidity becomes crucial.
By targeting a player like Palestra, Liverpool could add depth and balance to their defensive structure. A more traditional right-back profile would provide tactical flexibility, allowing the team to adjust formations depending on the opposition.
This type of versatility has become increasingly important in modern football, where teams often switch between attacking and defensive systems mid-match.
Liverpool’s recruitment strategy in recent years has also focused on signing players entering their prime developmental years.
The former Chelsea man was also in goal as Arsenal were knocked out of the FA Cup in a surprise defeat at Southampton last weekend.
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Raya was brought back into Arteta’s starting XI for the game against Sporting Lisbon last night, and Darren Bent feels it’s clear he now has to start every single game between now and the end of the season.
Bent doesn’t want to see Kepa again as Arteta urged to start Raya
Speaking on talkSPORT, as quoted by Football365, Bent said: “Stop playing Kepa. I know it’s not necessarily his fault, but I don’t want to see Kepa again this season.
“As a back-up, perfect. David Raya, between now and the end of the season, has to play every single minute.
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“Even if Arsenal destroy Sporting in the Champions League, next week I need David Raya in goal. Play him from now in every game until the end of the season.
“I understand he’s trying to play bodies but these players are letting him down, they keep being given opportunities and they’re not taking them.”
Arsenal fans will surely agree with this after Raya’s superb goalkeeping heroics in the win over Sporting last night.
The Spanish shot-stopper is quite simply on a whole other level from Kepa, who flopped at Chelsea and who will surely never be more than a backup for a top club.
Manchester United and Manchester City are reportedly likely to be the two main clubs in the race for the transfer of Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson.
The England international is dominating headlines at the moment after a superb season in the Premier League, and it’s easy to imagine him being a key player for his country at this summer’s World Cup in North America.
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According to Florian Plettenberg, Forest now expect Anderson to join either United or City if he leaves this summer, though a deal won’t come cheap.
See below for details as Anderson could even cost as much as £120m…
??? Forest expect Elliot #Anderson to join either Manchester United or Manchester City if he leaves this summer.
“Forest expect Elliot #Anderson to join either Manchester United or Manchester City if he leaves this summer,” Plettenberg said.
“So far, no club has made direct contact with Forest. A fee in the region of £100-120m is being demanded.”
Arsenal and Chelsea out of the running for Elliot Anderson?
This latest update could mean that Arsenal and Chelsea are out of the running for Anderson as speculation grows that he’ll join one of the Manchester clubs.
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According to Football Insider, Manchester City have joined the race to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes.
The Portuguese midfielder, who recently earned his first cap for the country, is wanted by top Premier League clubs including Manchester United and Liverpool.
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With West Ham strugging at the wrong end of the table, Premier League sides, including Man City, are ready to take advantage of their struggles and make a move for the midfielder.
The Premier League giants are set to lose Bernardo Silva at the end of the season which makes their interest in Fernandes obvious.
Man City to face competition from Premier League rivals
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The Red Devils are losing Casemiro at the end of the season and Bruno Fernandes reportedly wants his club to make a move for his compatriot who has impressed at West Ham this season despite their struggles.
“Mateus Fernandes has regularly been West Ham’s best player,” Mick Brown told Football Insider.
“When that is the case for any team who are at risk of relegation, it’s going to inspire interest from some of the bigger clubs in the Premier League.
“He’s now made his first appearance from Portugal, and that will have added to the interest in him.
“Man City are one of the clubs having a look at him, and one thing there is Bernardo Silva is going to be leaving at the end of the season.
“So they’re looking at a few midfielders who could come in and help to ease the burden of his exit.
“They’re quite well-stocked in midfield, but it’s a position they’re looking to strengthen in, and Fernandes is going to be on that list with a few other names.”
Extracting the Portuguese international from West Ham will be a highly complex and expensive operation.
The Hammers have a well-documented history of playing hardball over their most prized assets, and they will undoubtedly demand a massive premium to sanction the departure of a player whose stock is rising exponentially.
Furthermore, securing Fernandes could spark a fierce bidding war. Cross-town rivals Man United have also been heavily linked with the youngster, driven by enthusiastic recommendations from club captain and international teammate Bruno Fernandes.
Landing a versatile, dynamic talent like Fernandes would perfectly bridge the gap between City’s current veteran core and their next generation of superstars.
Whether they can successfully fend off intense competition from Old Trafford and convince West Ham’s formidable negotiating team to do business remains to be seen, but City’s concrete interest guarantees that Fernandes will be one of the most closely watched players this summer.
As the summer transfer window rapidly approaches, Chelsea’s relentless pursuit of Europe’s premier young talent shows absolutely no signs of slowing down.
According to recent reports from the German outlet Bild, the Blues are maintaining a strong, active interest in FC Cologne’s breakout forward, Said El Mala.
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The 19-year-old has been a magnificent revelation in the Bundesliga this season, registering a highly impressive 10 goals in 28 league appearance, a clinical return that has inevitably placed him firmly on the radar of several top-flight English clubs.
Said El Mala is a rising star in Germany
El Mala’s rapid ascent from academy prospect to first-team regular has been nothing short of spectacular.
Hitting double digits in one of Europe’s top five leagues as a teenager is a surefire way to command a premium valuation in the modern market.
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Meanwhile, reports suggest that his representatives have turned down an approach from Newcastle United, indicating that the player’s camp may be carefully considering the right long-term destination rather than rushing into negotiations.
Chelsea face competition from Premier League clubs
However, the West Londoners are far from the only suitors closely monitoring the teenager’s progress.
A fierce domestic bidding war is quietly brewing, with Brighton & Hove Albion, Brentford, and Everton all registering concrete interest.
Brighton and Brentford, in particular, possess stellar, data-driven reputations for identifying, nurturing, and eventually profiting from undervalued continental gems.
By potentially offering a much clearer, less congested pathway to regular first-team minutes than Chelsea can provide, these clubs present a highly tempting alternative for a young player still navigating the critical early stages of his professional career.
Juventus are reportedly considering a bold move to sign Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker, with the Italian giants exploring ways to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming season.
According to reports from Calciomercato, Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has identified the experienced Brazilian as a prime target, viewing him as a potential long-term upgrade in the goalkeeping department.
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The interest reflects Juventus’ ambition to rebuild key areas of their squad and re-establish themselves among Europe’s elite clubs.
Spalletti’s influence and the appeal of experience
Spalletti’s reported interest in Alisson is rooted in familiarity and trust.
The Juventus manager previously worked with the Brazilian during his time at Roma, where Alisson developed into one of Europe’s most reliable goalkeepers before earning a high-profile transfer to Liverpool in 2018.
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That prior relationship could prove significant if Juventus decide to pursue negotiations seriously.
Alisson’s career at Liverpool has been marked by consistency, leadership, and big-match performances. Since arriving from Roma for what was then a world-record fee for a goalkeeper, he has been central to Liverpool’s success under Jürgen Klopp and Arne Slot.
His contributions helped the club secure major honours, including the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup, achievements that underline his value as both a shot-stopper and a leader in the dressing room.
Financial considerations & transfer possibilities for Liverpool star
From a financial standpoint, Juventus are reportedly confident they can meet Alisson’s current salary demands, believed to be around €8 million per season.
However, the overall structure of any deal remains a critical factor. Liverpool are understood to value the Brazilian at approximately €20 million, a figure Juventus may attempt to negotiate downward, especially given the player’s age and contract situation.
Liverpool’s own planning could also influence negotiations. The club have been investing in long-term squad evolution, and recent years have seen discussions about succession planning in key positions, including goalkeeper.
Although Alisson remains a cornerstone of Liverpool’s defensive stability, clubs often consider long-term transitions as players enter the later stages of their careers.
According to Simon Phillips, there is some uncertainty around Woltemade’s future as he wants to be playing as a striker more often, which Chelsea could offer him.
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While it’s not yet guaranteed that Chelsea will move for the Germany international, it seems like something they’re considering exploring, particularly if Newcastle make a move for Delap.
It’s been a difficult first season for Delap at Stamford Bridge and our information is that Newcastle are one of the clubs informed that he could be available this summer.
If Delap does move on, then Woltemade certainly has potential as a solid replacement.
Nick Woltemade could be a surprisingly strong signing for Chelsea
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Woltemade hasn’t been entirely convincing at Newcastle, but he started well and was on the radar of top clubs during his time at Stuttgart.
The 24-year-old might benefit from a change of scene and from the chance to play in his preferred role more often, so there could be some sense in joining the Blues.
It could be a bit of a risk, but it’s also surely worth trying something different up front after Delap’s struggles since joining from Ipswich Town.
Liam Delap likely to leave Chelsea
Our sources previously told us about Delap’s CFC future being in doubt already, with Newcastle joined by the likes of Manchester United, Everton, Brighton, and Sunderland as keeping an eye on his situation.
With just one goal in 22 Premier League games this season, Delap has been a major flop at Chelsea and it might mean he won’t get much more time to try to improve and show what he can do.
Still, Delap did impress at Ipswich and there’s surely some potential for him to still have a decent Premier League career, even if he’s not quite cut out for clubs with top four or title ambitions.
Manchester United and England legend Paul Scholes has made it clear that he thinks Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman should go to the 2026 World Cup this summer.
Dowman has long been highly rated after making a huge impression at academy level for Arsenal, and he’s just started to play more of a role in Mikel Arteta’s first-team as well.
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The 16-year-old recently scored his first Arsenal goal in a 2-0 win at home to Everton, and he started the recent FA Cup game away to Southampton, whilst coming off the bench in last night’s Champions League win away to Sporting Lisbon.
It’s clear Dowman is a special talent, and it seems Scholes already wants to see him involved with England at the upcoming World Cup.
Paul Scholes on “unbelievable” Max Dowman
Watch below as Scholes insists Dowman gives England something different and should be involved in Thomas Tuchel’s squad, just as Lamine Yamal was when he won the Euros with Spain at a similar age.
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Speaking on The Good, The Bad, & The Football, Scholes said: “How good is Max Dowman?”
When it was put to him that it might be a bit soon, the pundit added: “No, f*** that. Look at Spain with Yamal.
"I don't think there's an English player with the ability he's got"
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In a bid to add a combination of both technique and power to their side, Man Utd are being linked with the likes of West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes and Aston Villa’s Amadou Onana, as per Sacha Tavolieri.
The Red Devils will also be letting Casemiro leave as his contract comes to an end, while the report adds that Manuel Ugarte could be likely to leave as Juventus show an interest.
Elliot Anderson also continues to be mentioned as one of United’s dream targets for that area of their squad, though the Daily Mirror‘s latest info suggests Manchester City are in pole position to land the Nottingham Forest and England midfielder.
Competition to sign Mateus Fernandes
Fernandes is certainly likely to be one to watch this summer, and it’s easy to imagine him being a success in United’s midfield.
Still, United are currently looking the more likely to qualify for the Champions League, so that could give them an edge in the race against Liverpool, whose poor form could still see them miss out, even if there are now five spots available for English clubs.
All in all, it seems like it’s going to be an interesting summer for midfielders moving clubs, with a lot of quality players looking to be available on the market, with big clubs all likely to make changes in that department.
Manchester United’s summer recruitment plans are beginning to take definitive shape, with the club reportedly setting their sights on Werder Bremen’s teenage defensive phenom, Karim Coulibaly.
As the Red Devils desperately look to fortify a backline that has been repeatedly decimated by fitness issues, the 18-year-old German U21 international has emerged as a primary target, according to Sky Sport Germany.
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Viewed as both crucial immediate competition and a long-term succession plan for Lisandro Martinez, Coulibaly represents a strategic shift toward securing top-tier emerging talent.
Man United consider Lisandro Martinez unreliable
Since following Erik ten Hag to Old Trafford in the summer of 2022, Martinez has been a transformative figure when available, offering elite ball progression and aggressive, front-foot defending.
However, the Argentine World Cup winner’s availability has become a major liability.
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Martinez has been plagued by a staggering seven different injuries over the past couple of seasons, causing him to miss nearly 100 matches for club and country.
His recent cruciate ligament troubles and subsequent setbacks have underscored a harsh reality for the United hierarchy, relying solely on the brilliant but fragile defender is entirely unsustainable.
Enter Coulibaly. The highly-rated centre-back has enjoyed a spectacular breakout campaign in the Bundesliga, logging 22 senior appearances this season and firmly establishing himself as one of Europe’s most coveted young defenders.
He recently etched his name into the history books by becoming Werder Bremen’s youngest-ever Bundesliga goalscorer.
He is known for his tactical maturity, imposing physical presence, and superb composure on the ball.
Coulibaly mirrors many of the progressive, modern traits required to thrive in a high-line Premier League system.
Consequently, the Bundesliga side has slapped a formidable €40 million to €50 million price tag on their prized asset.
Furthermore, United face intense competition for his signature, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Napoli, and Newcastle United are all closely monitoring the situation, with Chelsea reportedly already initiating contact with Coulibaly’s representatives.
According to Football Insider, Arsenal could consider the surprise sale of attacker Gabriel Martinelli as they look to balance the books.
The Brazilian attacker has been used mostly as a substitute this season with manager Mikel Arteta favouring Leandro Trossard on the left-wing.
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Martinelli’s output this season has been limited, unsurprisingly, considering the amount of football he has played this season.
His form has struggled massively in the Premier League but in the Champions League he has been quite impressive.
Even last night against Sporting in the Champion, it was Martinelli who provided the impact from the bench by making an assist for Kai Havertz’s late winner.
However, the Gunners could be forced to sell the Brazilian attacker not only because they want to balance their books and invest more money in the squad but also because of his contract situation.
What does the future hold for Martinelli at Arsenal?
The 24-year-old is set to enter the final year of his contract at the club and naturally he would attract a lot of attention from the outside.
Martinelli still has the potential to get even better. Considering his age and versatility, he is far from a finished product and he would be attracting a lot of attention.
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It remains to be seen if the Gunners tie him up to a new contract to protect his value or let him leave the club in the summer transfer window without offering a new deal.
In case Martinelli is allowed to leave the club, the Gunners are expected to sign a new left sided attacker.
Currently, they have Trossard and Noni Madueke as the options to play in that position, although it must not be forgotten that the latter is naturally a right-winger.
Where could Martinelli be heading if he leaves the Gunners?
A recent report from TEAMtalk has claimed that the Premier League leaders are looking to get £50 million for Martinelli.
Atletico Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig and Marseille are all reportedly interested in signing the Premier League star.
It remains to be seen if the Gunners will be able to get the price they want for Martinelli since he has not played enough football and his contract situation could complicate the matters for Arteta and his team.
Still only 24, he has the time to develop into a world class player and play in a number of different positions.
Arsenal are stepping up their interest in strengthening in defence this summer, with a top young centre-back likely to be the priority.
The Gunners have a long-standing interest in Real Madrid’s Victor Valdepenas, and my sources have confirmed another name to me in conversations this morning.
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One player Arsenal really like, and who is attracting growing interest ahead of this summer, is Como centre-back Jacobo Ramon.
The 21-year-old joined Como from Real Madrid last summer, and it’s important to note that they have a buy-back clause, and also a 50% sell-on clause.
The buy-back clause gives Real the edge if they decide to re-sign him, which is possible but I can’t confirm that it’s on the cards at the moment, while the hefty sell-on clause is likely to inflate his price so Como can still make decent money from any deal.
Arsenal and Chelsea in mix for Jacobo Ramon transfer
Chelsea have been linked with Ramon in recent times and my understanding is that they are still considering him as one of a number of options to strengthen their defence this summer.
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Still, well-connected sources now say Arsenal are stepping up their interest as well, as they strongly consider him alongside Valdepenas as an ideal profile to give them a long-term successor to Gabriel Magalhaes.
Gabriel is one of Arsenal’s most important players, but he’s now 28 and arguably starting to show some signs of decline after injury problems both this season and last term.
“Arsenal are looking very closely at Valdepenas and Ramon this summer,” one source said. “Their scouts have watched them several times and the feedback has been really positive. Arteta wants a young centre-back that can eventually become Gabriel’s replacement to partner Saliba.”
Mikel Arteta may have breathed a sigh of relief following Arsenal’s gritty 1-0 victory over Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League quarter-final first leg, but the critics remain unconvinced.
Despite getting back to winning ways thanks to a stoppage-time strike from Kai Havertz and crucial saves from goalkeeper David Raya, the Gunners have been issued a stark warning: they are simply not operating at the same elite level as European juggernauts Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.
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The sobering assessment was delivered by former Chelsea midfielder and ESPN pundit Craig Burley.
While acknowledging that Arsenal are now overwhelming favorites to reach the semi-finals, where they would face either Barcelona or Atlético Madrid, Burley stressed that navigating the “kinder” side of the draw is masking fundamental shortcomings.
Arsenal have been warned despite winning vs Sporting
‘In terms of the result you obviously take it,’ Burley said on ESPN, as reported by Metro.
‘Sporting are one of the weakest teams left if not the weakest team but Arsenal haven’t been great, we know that.
‘I imagine they’re home and dry after that result barring a disaster at home. No matter who the opposition is, Champions League quarter-finals, you get a 1-0 lead to take back home next week – you’re taking that.
‘They’re going to have to up their game though, if they go through against Sporting, which they should, and get to the semi-finals, if they don’t up their game… I mean, did you see the other game tonight, Real Madrid vs Bayern?
‘At the moment Arsenal, whilst they have everybody talking about the depth of their squad and that they’re probably going to win the Premier League, they need to play better.
‘That level that Bayern and Real Madrid got to today – and we know they can both get better – I don’t think Arsenal… they’ve really got to flick that switch again to get to that level.
‘Is anybody surprised that Arsenal are winning 1-0 away at one of the weakest teams left? That’s all I’m saying.
‘Bigger picture, they have to find the extra gears that they had at the beginning of the season, or they’re not going to win this competition. I’m not being negative, that’s just how it is.’
Is criticism from Burley justified on Mikel Arteta’s team?
Burley’s critique carries heavy weight when factoring in Arsenal’s recent domestic wobble.
Prior to the hard-fought win in Portugal, the North Londoners suffered agonizing back-to-back defeats, a comprehensive 2-0 loss to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final, followed by a shocking FA Cup quarter-final exit at the hands of Championship side Southampton.
Those stumbles temporarily punctured Arsenal’s aura of invincibility, raising familiar questions about their mental fortitude during the high-stakes spring run-in.
Arteta himself admitted his side had “a point to prove” against Sporting, praising his team’s resilience to win ugly against a side that had been unbeaten in 23 league matches.
However, scraping past a stubborn defensive block in Lisbon is a vastly different challenge than going toe-to-toe with the likes of Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.
Bigger tests will come for Arsenal and Arteta in the coming weeks but so far, they are unbeaten in the Champions League this season and they are the only team that boast such a record.
Less than a year after orchestrating a stunning Premier League title triumph in his debut campaign, Liverpool manager Arne Slot finds himself firmly on the brink.
The 2025/26 season has rapidly unravelled for the Dutch tactician, culminating in a humiliating 4-0 FA Cup quarter-final thrashing at the hands of Manchester City.
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With fan unrest growing and the threat of the sack looming large, the Anfield hierarchy is reportedly scrutinising Slot’s position as the club’s domestic and European ambitions hang by a thread.
Beyond the domestic cup exit, the Reds have suffered a staggering ten Premier League defeats, leaving them in a desperate dogfight simply to secure a top-four finish.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown has claimed that the players are as much to blame for Liverpool’s downfall this season as manager Slot.
Salah and Van Dijk named as players for letting Slot down
Two of the team’s most senior players Mohamed Salah and Virgil Van Dijk have been named by Brown for not helping the manager save their season.
Having signed new deals at the club last year, both Salah and Van Dijk were expected to hit new heights but their form has struggled massively this season.
So much that Salah has even announced that he will leave the club at the end of the season for a new adventure.
“Slot has been thrown under the bus at Liverpool,” Brown told Football Insider.
“Look through the squad, how many of them can you say have really performed to their top level? But it’s the manager who picks up the bill for it.
“He’s been badly let down by a number of his senior players.
“Van Dijk has got a brilliant reputation which has been well-earned, but he hasn’t performed anywhere close to his usual standard this season.
“Salah as well, we’ve spoken about him a number of times and the fact he’s dropped off.
“Then looking through the team, you’ve got players like Ibrahima Konate for example who again has been nowhere near the level required of him.
“So all of these things start to add up, but eventually it’s the manager who has to deal with it when results aren’t going their way.
“If Slot does get sacked by Liverpool, the players are just as much to blame as anything else.”
The mounting crisis has inevitably sparked intense speculation regarding Slot’s immediate future.
Rumours circulating across various outlets suggest that FSG has brought forward an end-of-season review, with whispers even indicating that Slot might be open to stepping down if a suitable severance package is agreed upon.
To survive the looming summer review and convince FSG to back him for a third season, Slot must immediately galvanise his disjointed squad, salvage a Champions League qualification spot, and present a convincing, unified front against PSG.
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The 28-year-old looks to have a growing list of options available to him, with Liverpool and Spurs also touching base with his representatives ahead of a potential summer move.
Depending on who you talk to, though, it seems a move to La Liga is considered more likely, with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid felt to be leading the race for his signature.
Marcos Senesi transfer situation explained
“Senesi is yet to make a final decision on his future, but Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have been in talks for some time,” one source said. “I wouldn’t rule out Premier League clubs just yet, but a move to Spain is more likely.”
“Keep an eye on Chelsea because they’re growing increasingly aware of the need to add some experience. With Senesi set to be available on a free he’s an ideal candidate,” another source explained.
Meanwhile, Liverpool and Tottenham are both keen amid doubts over their current defensive options, with Ibrahima Konate heading towards the end of his contract, while Cristian Romero is understood to be likely to leave Spurs this summer.
Even if Konate signs a new deal with LFC, they could do with more options at the back after a dip in form from the ageing Virgil van Dijk.
Marcos Senesi wants playing time and big contract
It’s also my understanding that Senesi could have very high wage demands as he prepares to make his next move, with this likely to be the last big contract of his career.
It remains to be seen which club is most willing to give the Argentine the kind of money he wants, but it will be an important factor, as will playing time.
Senesi has shown himself to be a key performer at Bournemouth and one source described him as “very confident he can shine at a higher level.”
It will be interesting to see which club can offer Senesi the kind of role he wants, but it’s certainly easy to imagine him having a positive impact and playing regularly for a variety of top teams.
The Colombia international has looked outstanding since leaving Liverpool to join Bayern last summer, and it’s a bit puzzling that the Merseyside giants let him go.
Steven Gerrard missing Luis Diaz at Liverpool
One imagines many Liverpool fans are starting to wonder why their club let Diaz leave, and Gerrard says he’s missing the 29-year-old, who has an impressive 23 goals and 14 assists in all competitions for Bayern this season.
Discussing the Olise to Liverpool links, as quoted by the Metro, Gerrard said: “The problem is, why would he (Olise) leave Bayern? A big club, challenging for the big honours, and they are probably the strongestBayern Munichteam we have seen for a while.
“He is about to take theWorld Cupbystormcome the summer. He looks like a really happy kid, settled, to me, I don’t think he’s going anywhere.
“But, yes, would I love him at Liverpool. And you know what, I wouldn’t mind Diaz back as well. I’m missing him, I’m missing him.”
Luis Diaz vs Liverpool’s other attacking players
Diaz was a key performer for LFC and it seems clear now that he could have been their ideal replacement for Salah.
Just see below for how his numbers compare to Arne Slot’s current crop of attacking players…
2025/26 stats all comps
Games
Goals
Assists
Luis Diaz
40
23
14
Mohamed Salah
35
10
8
Hugo Ekitike
43
17
5
Cody Gakpo
42
8
4
Liverpool probably won’t stand much of a chance of bringing Diaz back now as Bayern will surely do their best to keep him, but it’s another major transfer error to go alongside the huge amounts spent on flops like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz.
When evaluating the monumental evolution of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, it is incredibly easy to be mesmerised by the outfield superstars.
It is tempting to point to the sheer match-winning brilliance of Bukayo Saka on the right flank, or the relentless, ground-covering engine of Declan Rice in midfield.
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It is equally easy to look at the imposing, brick-wall partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães and declare them the definitive bedrock of the team.
They are all unequivocally world-class. Yet, if you strip away the layers of Arsenal’s tactical blueprint, the most indispensable player, the absolute linchpin of the entire system, wears the number 22 shirt. David Raya is Arsenal’s most important player.
The Cost of Absence: Domestic Cup Struggles
To understand Raya’s profound value, one must look no further than what happens when he is removed from the equation.
Without Raya’s supreme composure and pinpoint distribution, City’s high press suffocated the backline.
Similarly, the frustrating FA Cup quarterfinal exit at the hands of Southampton laid bare the defensive anxiety that creeps in when Raya isn’t there to act as the ultimate sweeping insurance policy.
The defenders dropped deeper, the midfield was bypassed, and the entire geometry of Arteta’s possession-heavy system fractured.
The Tactical Trigger: More Than Just a Goalkeeper
Raya is not merely a goalkeeper; he is Arsenal’s deep-lying playmaker and the tactical trigger for their attacks.
His ability to thread a pass through the first line of pressure or drop a 50-yard diagonal ball perfectly onto Saka’s chest allows the likes of Rice, Saliba, and Gabriel to operate with absolute supreme confidence.
They play higher and press harder because they know their goalkeeper is both a tactical genius with his feet and a commanding sweeper behind them.
Maximiliano Araujo of Sporting Clube de Portugal has the ball saved at his feet by David Raya of Arsenal (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)
Furthermore, any lingering doubts regarding his traditional shot-stopping abilities were emphatically silenced on the grandest European stage.
In the Champions League quarterfinal first leg against Sporting CP, Raya was nothing short of a revelation.
Earning a thoroughly deserved Man of the Match award, he single-handedly kept Arsenal in the tie during periods of intense Portuguese pressure, producing a string of breathtaking reflex saves while continuing to dictate the tempo from his own penalty area.
Strikers sell shirts, and defenders win titles, but a transformative modern goalkeeper elevates a great system into an elite, unstoppable force.
Manchester United are bracing for a massive midfield overhaul this summer, with the club actively scouring the market for at least two high-profile additions.
According to The Sun, club captain Bruno Fernandes is expected to play an influential role in recruitment discussions by recommending fellow Portuguese midfielder Mateus Fernandes, currently at West Ham United.
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With experienced Brazilian midfielder Casemiro widely expected to depart once his contract reaches its conclusion, United are entering a transitional phase in midfield.
The club has already been linked with several potential replacements, including Nottingham Forest standout Elliot Anderson which shows that the rebuild in the midfield will be high on their agenda in the summer transfer window.
Man United are losing Casemiro in the summer
The primary catalyst for this aggressive summer recruitment drive is the confirmed exit of Casemiro.
The 34-year-old Brazilian international will officially leave Old Trafford when his contract expires at the end of the 2025/26 season, concluding a four-year stint in Manchester.
Despite a recent resurgence in form that saw supporters passionately chanting for him to stay, an emotional tribute that Casemiro admitted brought his wife to tears, the mutual decision for him to move on has been finalised.
His departure will free up significant space on the wage bill, but it simultaneously leaves a massive void in the heart of United’s starting XI that must be addressed.
The West Ham United midfielder has impressed during his time in East London, showcasing the technical security, energy, and progressive passing that United have often lacked in the middle of the park.
For Fernandes, integrating a compatriot who already understands the intense physical demands of the Premier League could provide immediate stability and a seamless tactical fit alongside Kobbie Mainoo.
The Red Devils are also deeply entangled in a bidding war for Nottingham Forest standout Anderson.
The English midfielder has enjoyed a stellar campaign at the City Ground, but securing his services will be a complex operation.
Chelsea are reportedly ready to join the race for the transfer of Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall to replace Marc Cucurella this summer.
Hall was previously in Chelsea’s academy but managed only 12 first-team appearances before leaving to join Newcastle, where he’s improved a great deal.
According to Fichajes, the Blues are now keen to bring Hall back to the club in a potential £70m deal, with the England international being targeted to replace Cucurella.
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The report states that Cucurella could leave Stamford Bridge, and this perhaps makes sense after he recently signalled he was unsettled with this current CFC project.
Lewis Hall to replace Marc Cucurella?
Cucurella has been a key player for Chelsea, but his recent comments to the Athletic suggest he’s not happy with how things have been going with the west London giants.
“I understand this is part of the club’s policy, and that they want to take this direction — signing young players and looking to the future. But, for all of us who are still here and want to win big things, moments like this make you feel discouraged,” he said.
He added: “We have a good core of players. The foundations are there. But to fight for major trophies such as the Premier League or the Champions League, you need more.”
If Cucurella isn’t happy then it’s surely wise to move him on, with Hall potentially looking like he could be an upgrade anyway.
Hall’s fine form looks to have him in contention for a place in England’s 2026 World Cup squad, and it’s also seen him linked with other big clubs.
Sky Sports have linked the 21-year-old with Manchester United, while we’ve also previously been informed of the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool monitoring his situation.
United will be an interesting one to watch as they look like they could definitely do with Hall as a long-term successor to the ageing Luke Shaw, while Patrick Dorgu looks like he could shift to a more attacking role in the long term.
Chelsea will no doubt hope that Hall fancies a move back to his former club as a priority, but he might also feel that that ship has sailed and that it would be better to try a different kind of challenge if he is to leave St James’ Park.
Newcastle surely won’t be keen to sell, however, after losing Alexander Isak last summer and with the threat of other star names like Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon potentially leaving this year.
Blackburn Rovers’ promising young defender Tom Atcheson is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after teenage talents in British football, with multiple Premier League clubs monitoring his development closely.
According to reports from TEAMtalk, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle United are among the leading English sides keeping tabs on the 19-year-old centre-back, whose rapid rise at club and international level has drawn widespread attention.
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Atcheson’s breakthrough into senior football with Blackburn, combined with his growing role for Northern Ireland under manager Michael O’Neill, has elevated his profile significantly.
The increased exposure has not only caught the eye of England’s top-flight clubs but has also sparked strong interest from leading teams across Europe, suggesting Blackburn could soon face intense competition to keep hold of one of their most valuable prospects.
Rapid development at Blackburn earns Man United interest
Atcheson’s progression through the ranks at Blackburn Rovers has been both swift and impressive.
Having initially built his reputation within the club’s youth system, he has made a seamless transition into senior football, a step that often separates promising academy players from genuine first-team prospects.
Modern centre-backs are increasingly expected to contribute to build-up play as well as defensive duties, and Atcheson’s ability to read the game and distribute possession confidently has made him particularly appealing to clubs that prioritise possession-based football.
Alongside the interest from Man United, Tottenham, and Newcastle, several other Premier League sides, including Everton, Brentford, Brighton & Hove Albion, and newly promoted Sunderland, are also believed to be tracking his progress.
Atcheson’s inclusion in Northern Ireland’s senior setup has further enhanced his reputation.
Under O’Neill, he has been given opportunities to train and compete alongside experienced international players, accelerating his development and exposing him to higher tactical demands.
The intrigue surrounding the young Northern Irishman extends far beyond British shores.
In an era where top continental clubs actively scout the English lower leagues for undervalued gems, Atcheson has caught the eye of several European giants.
Bundesliga powerhouses RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund, both renowned for nurturing young British exports like Jude Bellingham and Jadon Sancho into global stars, are meticulously tracking his progress.
Meanwhile, in Serie A, both Atalanta and Napoli have placed the defender, currently valued at roughly £10 million, firmly on their radar, hoping to lure him to Italy with the promise of top-flight European competition.
Tottenham are reportedly weighing up a move for highly rated England goalkeeper James Trafford as uncertainty grows over the future of current number one Guglielmo Vicario.
With Italian giants Inter Milan believed to be monitoring Vicario’s situation, Spurs are already exploring contingency plans to safeguard their goalkeeping depth ahead of the upcoming transfer window, according to The Sun.
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Vicario has been a central fixture in goal since his arrival from Empoli in 2023, but his future at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium appears increasingly uncertain.
The Italian international has endured a remarkably difficult 2025/26 campaign.
Inter Milan interest raises question over Vicario’s future
With Inter Milan aggressively searching for a long-term successor to veteran Yann Sommer, a return to his homeland is highly appealing to Vicario.
In anticipation of any potential developments, Tottenham have reportedly identified Trafford as a leading candidate to fill the void should Vicario depart.
Trafford gained widespread recognition during England’s triumph at the UEFA European Under-21 Championship, where his performances were instrumental to the team’s success.
He joined Man City in the summer transfer window but his playing time has been limited at the Etihad Stadium due to the presence of Guanluigi Donnarumma.
For Tottenham, signing Trafford makes immense tactical sense. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-6, he offers exceptional aerial command of the penalty area.
More importantly, his education in Manchester City’s youth system has made him highly adept with the ball at his feet, a vital requirement for Roberto De Zerbi’s high-risk, build-up-focused tactical blueprint.
Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly prepared to pay as much as €100m to sign Estevao Willian from Chelsea in an ambitious transfer.
The highly-rated Brazilian wonderkid only joined the Blues last summer, and has mostly impressed in his first season at Stamford Bridge.
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According to Fichajes, PSG are now seriously considering making a big bid for Estevao, who could potentially be brought in to replace Bradley Barcola amid some uncertainty over his future.
Chelsea surely won’t be at all keen to let Estevao go, however, as they’re yet to see the very best of the 18-year-old, who surely has a long and successful career ahead of him.
CFC will have signed Estevao with a view to the future, so it makes little sense for them to be cashing in on him already, even if there is perhaps a chance that they’d be tempted to do so at some point in the future.
Estevao the latest Chelsea star linked with a transfer away
These are slightly worrying times for Liam Rosenior’s side as performances on the pitch have not been good enough and there have been plenty of Chelsea transfer rumours involving star players leaving the club.
Enzo Fernandez has been suspended after comments he made recently which hinted at a desire to leave, and he’s also reported to be ready to hand in a transfer request, according to El Chiringuito (as cited and translated by Goal).
Cole Palmer is another who keeps attracting speculation, with the Sun reporting that he’s unhappy in west London.
Liam Rosenior on Estevao
Rosenior was full of praise for Estevao after his performance in the FA Cup win over Port Vale, with the teenager looking back to his best after some recent injury problems.
“He enjoys playing football and just wants to get on the ball. Wherever he is on the pitch he’s a threat, and he’s going to be a real, real plus for us going into the run-in,” Rosenior said.
PSG would surely love to have a talent like that on their hands, and they have the money to afford it, but this still looks like a tricky deal that’s unlikely to happen any time soon.
Harry Maguire has reportedly turned down the opportunity to move to Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, opting instead to extend his stay at Manchester United and reaffirm his commitment to the club.
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The decision shows both Maguire’s renewed role within the squad and his desire to continue competing at the highest level of European football.
After a period of uncertainty surrounding his future in recent seasons, the 33-year-old defender appears to have rediscovered a sense of purpose at Man United.
Maguire’s resurgence strengthens his position at Man United
Maguire’s situation at Man United has evolved significantly over the past few seasons.
Once facing intense scrutiny and speculation over a potential departure, the centre-back has gradually worked his way back into contention through consistent performances and professionalism.
Earlier transfer windows saw clubs such as West Ham United linked with moves for the defender, while reports suggested United were open to offers as part of a wider squad rebuild.
However, Maguire’s resilience has played a major role in shifting perceptions. His ability to step in during injury crises and deliver dependable performances has earned him renewed respect among supporters.
Interest from Inter Miami demonstrates how Maguire’s reputation extends beyond the Premier League.
The MLS club, co-owned by David Beckham, has been aggressive in targeting established European names to strengthen their squad and raise their global profile.
The decision to stay was not without lucrative alternatives. Alongside the recent interest from Inter Miami, Maguire was previously courted by the Saudi Pro League, with staggering contract offers reportedly circling over the past year.
By declining the chance to wind down his career in MLS, Maguire has signaled a deep desire to close out his playing days on his own terms in Manchester.
Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado has reportedly told his agent to get him a transfer away from the club this summer after a lack of playing time.
The 22-year-old has struggled to establish himself as a regular in Hansi Flick’s side, starting only nine La Liga games and two Champions League matches this season.
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Barca director Deco is said to be aware of the situation, and this will likely have other clubs on alert as well.
Where next for Marc Casado?
Casado is a talented player who’s been unfortunate to be up against a lot of competition in this Barcelona side, so he’ll surely have some decent offers this summer.
Arsenal might also do well to add some depth in that department, though it’s perhaps also hard to imagine Casado starting a lot of games at the Emirates Stadium due to the presence of Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi.
Still, there’s some risk in moving for someone like Casado after a season spent mostly on the bench, so perhaps he’ll have to wait before getting himself another big move.
Casado came up through Barcelona’s academy, so it could be a smart move for them to sell him if he’s not performing, as it gives them the chance to make pure profit on a player they didn’t have to spend a transfer fee on in the past.
Barca fans like seeing homegrown players coming through, but Casado is perhaps not quite at the right level for this team, and the club also have long-standing financial issues that need to come into consideration.
Following a challenging 2025/26 campaign under manager Arne Slot, Liverpool are reportedly laying the groundwork for a comprehensive summer squad restructuring.
With the club eager to reclaim its status as a dominant force across all domestic and European competitions, the Anfield hierarchy has begun compiling a shortlist of top-tier Premier League talent.
According to recent reports circulating on X, the Reds have identified Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba and Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon as two primary targets to spearhead their upcoming rebuild
Liverpool want to bolster the engine room with Baleba
Liverpool’s midfield has been a frequent area of concern this season, often appearing outmatched physically in critical transitions.
To solve this recurring issue, the recruitment team has turned its attention to 22-year-old Baleba.
The Cameroonian international has been a revelation since arriving at Brighton in 2023 for approximately €27 million.
He is known for his raw power, relentless ball-recovery skills, and progressive carrying ability.
However, prying the young star away from the Amex Stadium will be no simple feat. The Seagulls are notoriously tough negotiators and will undoubtedly demand a premium fee for one of their most promising assets.
The 25-year-old England international has been on the Reds’ radar for well over a year.
While Gordon previously dismissed exit rumors to focus on his current club, the financial realities at St James’ Park could eventually force a reluctant sale.
Competition
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Yellow Cards
Red Cards
Minutes Played
Premier League
25
6
2
3
1
1,742
UEFA Champions League
12
10
1
1
0
775
EFL Cup
5
0
0
0
0
188
World Cup Qualifiers (ENG)
5
1
0
1
0
186
Total
47
17
3
5
1
2,891
Gordon’s stats this season
Liverpool’s intentions are crystal clear, the squad needs a serious injection of Premier League-proven physicality and pace.
Securing Baleba would provide the midfield anchor they have been missing, while adding Gordon would supercharge an already dangerous attacking line.
Navigating complex negotiations with Brighton and Newcastle will be a massive test for the club’s sporting directors, but executing this double coup would send a resounding statement of intent ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Chelsea are hoping to sign Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid at the end of the season.
According to a report from Spain, they have already made a formal enquiry for the 25-year-old Brazilian, and it remains to be seen whether they follow up with an official proposal to him.
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Chelsea eye Vinicius Junior move
Real Madrid were hoping to secure a contract with the South American attacker, but negotiations between the two parties have reached a dead end. Chelsea is looking to capitalise on the situation and secure his signature.
The 25-year-old is a world-class player who could make a big difference in Chelsea’s attack. The Blues invested in players like Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens at the start of the season. However, both players have been underwhelming. Chelsea needs more cutting-edge in the final third, and a 25-year-old could transform them.
He is exceptional when it comes to taking on defenders in one-versus-one situations, and he will add explosive pace and unpredictability to the attack. Vinicius has 17 goals and 13 assists this season.
The opportunity to move to the Premier League could be exciting for the Brazilian. He has shown his quality in La Liga, and he has won major trophies with Real. He could be taking a new challenge now.
Meanwhile, Chelsea could offer him a lucrative contract as well. The report claims that they could offer him a salary in excess of £500,000 per week. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Real Madrid will not want to lose the player easily, and they could demand a premium for him. Chelsea would have to break the bank to get the deal done.
Manchester United are interested in signing the Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck at the end of the season.
The 26-year-old is facing an uncertain future at the German club, and Manchester United are hoping to capitalise on his situation and secure his services.
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Man United begin work on Nico Schlotterbeck move
According to reports from Spain, Manchester United have already begun preliminary steps to secure his services. The defender has a contract with the German club until 2027, and the club has not been able to agree on a new deal. It will be interesting to see if he is prepared to move to the Premier League.
Manchester United need a quality long-term replacement for Harry Maguire, and the German international would be ideal. He has shown that he is a reliable defender, and he has the physicality and technical attributes for English football as well. Apart from his defensive qualities, he is excellent on the ball, and his distribution skills could add a new dimension to Manchester United.
Given his contract situation, he could be available for a reasonable sum in the summer. The opportunity to move to England could be exciting for him, and Manchester United are among the biggest clubs in the world. The Premier League side is confident that it can present a financial and sporting offer that will be irresistible to the German international.
It remains to be seen how the situation develops. The player has been linked with multiple clubs over the last few months. Manchester United must act quickly if they want to win the race for his signature. The 26-year-old is likely to be a hot commodity in the market this summer. Schlotterbeck has been hailed as “outstanding” by Julian Nagelsmann.
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard was seen engaged in a lengthy and animated discussion with manager Mikel Arteta after being substituted during the Gunners’ hard-fought 1-0 Champions League victory over Sporting CP on Tuesday night.
The Norwegian playmaker was replaced by Kai Havertz, who went on to score the winning goal, in the 70th minute.
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Before taking his place on the bench, Odegaard appeared to be explaining a physical issue to Arteta, pointing toward his leg while visibly grimacing.
According to BBC Sport Arsenal reporter Alex Howell: “Martin Odegaard comes off and seems to have a bit of a limp. He did have treatment before being replaced by Kai Havertz. He has a long talk with Mikel Arteta before sitting on the bench too.”
Arteta later confirmed in his post-match comments that while the substitution was “partly tactical,” it was also a “precautionary” measure given the player’s recent fitness struggles.
The sight of Odegaard limping will be a major concern for Arsenal supporters, as the midfielder has endured a “nightmare” 2025/26 campaign plagued by recurring issues.
Having only recently returned to the starting lineup following a month-long layoff with a knee problem, this latest “muscular blow” in Lisbon puts his availability for the second leg and the critical Premier League run-in at risk.
With Arsenal currently missing Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber, losing their creative engine once again would be a catastrophic blow to their hopes of a historic European and domestic double.
Liverpool and Chelsea are currently fighting for a place in the UEFA Champions League next season, and they have been handed a huge boost.
According to a report from the BBC, the Premier League has now secured a fifth Champions League spot for the upcoming campaign. Arsenal picked up a 1-0 win over Sporting CP in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final, and that has helped secure the fifth spot for English clubs in the Champions League next season.
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Additional Champions League spot for English teams
The additional place is awarded to two leagues with the best overall performances across three European campaigns, and the Premier League has now clinched the additional spot through their impressive performances.
Apart from the Premier League, it seems that La Liga could also be an extra spot ahead of Germany and Portugal.
It remains to be seen whether Chelsea or Liverpool can secure a top-five finish now. Both teams have been quite inconsistent in recent months, and they will need to raise their performance levels in order to secure Champions League football for the upcoming campaign.
Can Liverpool or Chelsea seal Champions League qualification?
Missing out on the premier European competition would be a disastrous blow financially. They would also struggle to attract top-quality players without Champions League football next season.
Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United are more or less nailed on to finish in the top three this season. Securing a top-four finish would have been a challenge for Liverpool and Chelsea, especially given Aston Villa’s performance this season. The additional Champions League spot certainly makes it easier for Liverpool and Chelsea to secure a place in next season’s Champions League.
Arsenal snatched a massive away victory in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday night, as substitute Kai Havertz struck a clinical stoppage-time winner to deflate a resilient Sporting CP in Lisbon.
In what was a cagey and tactical affair at the José Alvalade Stadium, the German international proved to be the difference-maker.
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Introduced in the 70th minute for Martin Odegaard, Havertz waited until the 91st minute to make his mark, ghosting into the center of the box to meet a perfectly weighted pass from fellow substitute Gabriel Martinelli.
The finish was precise, guiding the ball past Rui Silva and silencing the home crowd.
Superb Kai Havertz ???
Brilliant play from Gabriel Martinelli and Havertz calmly slots home after a sublime first touch ? pic.twitter.com/LF9EnQutnw
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 7, 2026
Huge away win for Arsenal
The 1-0 victory ends Sporting’s formidable run of 17 consecutive home wins and provides Mikel Arteta’s side with a narrow but precious advantage to take back to the Emirates Stadium next week.
After a frustrating first half where both Noni Madueke and Sporting’s Maximiliano Araújo hit the woodwork, Arsenal grew into the game.
The Gunners thought they had taken the lead earlier in the second half when Martín Zubimendi curled a stunning effort into the net, but the goal was ruled out by VAR due to an offside in the buildup involving Viktor Gyokeres.
Despite the setback, Arsenal remained disciplined, and the late intervention from Havertz ensured they avoided a third consecutive game without a win following their recent domestic struggles.
David Raya the hero for Arsenal
While Havertz will grab the headlines for his heroics at one end, David Raya was equally instrumental at the other.
The Spanish goalkeeper produced a “masterclass” in shot-stopping, particularly in the closing stages as Sporting pushed for a winner of their own.
Raya was forced into a stunning low save to deny a diving header from Geny Catamo in the 83rd minute and followed it up with a vital double save in the 87th minute after initially spilling a cross.
His ability to recover and smother the follow-up attempt preserved the clean sheet and laid the foundation for Arsenal’s late smash-and-grab.
With the defensive anchor Gabriel Magalhães absent through injury, Raya’s vocal leadership and distribution were essential in guiding a makeshift backline through the hostile Lisbon atmosphere.
Arsenal are interested in signing the Barcelona playmaker Dani Olmo at the end of the season, and the Spanish club would be open to sanctioning his departure.
According to reports from Spain, the Spanish attacking midfielder will cost around €60 million. Mikel Arteta is reportedly looking to replace Martin Odegaard in the coming months, and they believe that the Barcelona star could be the ideal link between the midfield and the attack for them.
The playmaker has 16 goal contributions this season, and he has proven himself for club and country. There is no doubt that he has the ability to succeed in English football as well. It remains to be seen whether he is prepared to move to the Premier League with Arsenal.
The €60 million asking price is affordable for a club with Arsenal’s resources. They are aiming to compete regularly in the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League, and they need to keep improving the team. Odegaard has not been at his best this season, and it is no surprise that Arsenal are already looking to replace him.
The player has a contract with Barcelona until 2030, and the Spanish champions are under no pressure to sell him. Arsenal will have to pay the asking price if they want to get the deal done. It remains to be seen how the situation develops over the next few weeks.
Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke have been inconsistent since joining Arsenal at the start of the season, and the Gunners need more cutting-edge in the final third. The Spanish international could prove to be an inspired acquisition.
Manchester United are interested in signing the French international Eduardo Camavinga from Real Madrid at the end of the season.
They are closely monitoring the 23-year-old midfielder, and they are prepared to provide him with an exit route. The player has struggled for regular opportunities at the Spanish club, and reports from Spain claim that Real Madrid is losing patience and confidence with the player.
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Man United want Eduardo Camavinga
The report claims that Manchester United want to sign him as a replacement for Casemiro. The Brazilian will leave the club in the summer, and they need to replace him properly. Camavinga is an elite talent with a bright future, and Manchester United could groom him into a future star.
The midfielder is keen to join an ambitious project, and Manchester United are one of the biggest clubs in the world. They have shown great improvement under Michael Carrick, and they are currently pushing for Champions League qualification. They will be hoping to fight for major trophies next season, and they are likely to be an attractive destination for the midfielder.
The move to the Premier League could be ideal for him at this stage of his career. He has the physicality and technical attributes for English football, and Manchester United could help him get his career back on track. Real Madrid is unlikely to stand in his way if there is a suitable offer from Manchester United on the table.
Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the River Plate prodigy Ian Subiabre at the end of the season.
According to a report from El Transingiente, River Plate is unwilling to lose the Argentine prodigy and has set his asking price at €100 million. It remains to be seen whether Tottenham is prepared to make a move for him at the end of the season.
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Ian Subiabre is an elite talent
Subiabre can operate as a forward and a dynamic winger across the front three. He is highly rated in South America, and he has a bright future ahead of himself. Tottenham would do well to secure his signature.
They need more quality and depth in the attacking unit, and the 19-year-old South American would be a long-term investment. He has the technical attributes to succeed in the Premier League, and he could develop into a key player for the North London club with the right guidance. Tottenham are looking to build for the future, and signing one of the most promising young players in South America would be a step in the right direction.
However, the asking price is absurd for an unproven talent like him. There is no doubt that Subiabre is a promising young player, and he might be able to develop into a future star, but no club will want to pay €100 million for him now. It remains to be seen whether River Plate will be more reasonable with their demands.
The player is not against a potential move in the summer, and it remains to be seen how the situation develops. The opportunity to play in the Premier League could be exciting for him. Exposure to English football could accelerate his development and help him fulfil his tremendous potential.
Darwin Nunez has been linked with a return to the Premier League, and Chelsea are reportedly interested in securing his signature.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, the 26-year-old striker and his representatives are currently exploring a return to Europe. He has fallen out of favour at Al-Hilal and has been dropped following the arrival of Karim Benzema.
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Darwin Nunez needs a fresh start
He needs to play regularly at this stage of his career, and returning to Europe would be ideal for him. The 26-year-old was a useful player for Liverpool during his time in the Premier League, and there is no doubt that Nunez could be a handy option for Chelsea as well. They need to find a quality alternative to Liam Delap, who has scored just once this season.
Nunez will be determined to get his career back on track, and the opportunity to play in the Premier League will be exciting for him. His hunger to succeed will be an added bonus for Chelsea if they can sign him.
Even though the 26-year-old was never a prolific goal scorer for Liverpool, his creativity, link-up play, pressing, and work rate will add a new dimension to the Chelsea attack. The Uruguayan International has an infectious personality as well.
Meanwhile, the player is on substantial wages at the Saudi Arabian club, but his representatives have made it clear that agreeing on personal terms will not be an issue with the player. It appears he is willing to take a pay cut to return to the Premier League.
Al-Hilal no longer consider him part of their project, and therefore, they are unlikely to stand in his way. It remains to be seen whether Chelsea can secure an agreement with them. Nunez has 14 goal contributions in 24 matches for Al-Hilal.
Manchester City are reportedly confident they have won the race to sign Nottingham Forest sensation Elliot Anderson, leapfrogging bitter rivals Manchester United to land one of the Premier League’s most coveted young talents.
The 23-year-old has been at the center of a mounting transfer tug-of-war, but sources suggest the Etihad is now the midfielder’s preferred destination as City look to kickstart a major engine-room rebuild.
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A host of clubs are keen on signing Elliot Anderson
According to reports from The Mirror, City believe they are now in pole position to secure a deal worth approximately £65 million.
This news comes as a significant blow to a long list of suitors, including Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham, all of whom have been monitoring the England international closely.
As per the report, Anderson is expected to leave the City Ground this summer regardless of whether Forest, currently embroiled in a fierce survival battle, avoids relegation.
While United remain ‘seriously in the race‘ under interim boss Michael Carrick, Anderson has reportedly let it be known that he favors a move to the blue half of Manchester.
City are eager to seal the transfer before the 2026 World Cup in North America begins, fearing that a standout tournament alongside Declan Rice could see his valuation soar beyond £100 million.
Anderson is one of the best midfielders in England
Since his £35 million move from Newcastle United in 2024, Anderson’s rise has been nothing short of incredible.
This season, he has established himself as a midfield powerhouse, recording a pass completion rate of 88% across 31 Premier League appearances.
Stat (2025/26 PL)
Total
Minutes Played
2,774
Tackles
90
Interceptions
34
Recoveries
259
Elliot Anderson stats in Premier League this season via FotMob
With Bernardo Silva confirmed to be leaving and Mateo Kovacic also linked with an exit, Pep Guardiola sees Anderson as the ideal high-energy replacement.
His ability to drive forward from deep while maintaining defensive discipline has made him a certain pick for Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.
For City, securing Anderson early would represent the first major win in what promises to be a transformative summer for the Premier League giants.
Manchester United winger Amad Diallo has publicly thrown his support behind interim manager Michael Carrick, revealing that the dressing room believes the former club captain is the “right man” to lead the team permanently.
Carrick, who stepped in following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim in January, has overseen a remarkable resurgence at Old Trafford.
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Under his guidance, United have transformed from a side in turmoil into genuine Champions League contenders, currently sitting third in the Premier League table.
Amad Diallo on Michael Carrick: “He’s the right man”
Speaking during a press conference in Dublin, Amad was clear about the impact Carrick has had on the squad.
While acknowledging that the final decision lies with the board, the Ivory Coast international made his personal stance, and revealed the feelings of his teammates.
“Obviously, it’s not for us as players to decide his future but he’s been great,” Amad told reporters (via Bein Sports).
“He’s done so much for the team, he has a lot of experience, he knows the club, he has been in the house. We think he’s the right man and we’re really happy for what he’s doing right now.
“He knows the club, he played for the club, he has great experience to manage this club. His relationship with every player is very good and sometimes you need this kind of manager to bring the club to where they belong.”
Michael Carrick’s brilliant work at Man United
The job Carrick has done certainly backs up the players’ enthusiasm. Since taking over as caretaker, Carrick has recorded seven wins, two draws, and just one defeat in his first 10 matches.
This run has seen United climb up the league, reigniting a push for a return to Europe’s elite competition after a two-year absence.
Beyond the results, players like Bryan Mbeumo have praised Carrick’s ability to communicate and manage individual egos within the squad.
They will also face competition from Aston Villa. It remains to be seen which of the two Premier League clubs comes forward with an acceptable offer for him. An offer of around €45 million could be enough to get the deal done, as per FussballDaten.
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Can Arsenal sign Malik Tillman?
Arsenal certainly have the financial muscle to pay up, and Tillman would be a quality long-term acquisition. The opportunity to join the Premier League side will be exciting for the United States International. It would be a huge step up for him, and he would get to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world. Even though Leverkusen are unwilling to let him leave, they will find it difficult to turn down a substantial offer.
The German club is unlikely to sanction his departure before the World Cup, and they will hope that he can impress in the upcoming mega event. It will certainly strengthen their position in negotiations and help them recoup a substantial amount of money.
Arsenal are looking to regularly fight for major trophies, and they need more quality and depth in the team. The United States International could prove to be a handy option for them in the middle of the park. He will help create opportunities for his teammates and link up with the attackers as well. The 23-year-old has eight goals to his name this season.
Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are looking to strengthen their attacking units by signing Hoffenheim striker Fisnik Asllani in the summer.
The 23-year-old Kosovo star has impressed with the Bundesliga outfit, with 18 goal contributions. He has helped Hoffenheim stay in the top five.
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Chelsea and Spurs keen on Fisnik Asllani
According to a report from BILD, Tottenham and Chelsea are pushing to sign the 23-year-old attacker, and it will be interesting to see if they are prepared to pay up. The striker will cost around €30 million, and the Premier League clubs certainly have the financial muscle to afford him.
He is a young player with a lot of potential, and he has shown his quality in German football. He could make his mark in English football as well and help improve the likes of Chelsea and Tottenham. The €30 million asking price could prove to be a bargain for a player of his quality and potential.
The 23-year-old will only improve with coaching and experience. Chelsea and Tottenham have done well to groom young players in the past, and they could play a key role in his development. The striker has a contract with the German club until 2029, and any club hoping to secure his signature will have to meet the asking price.
It remains to be seen how the situation develops over the next few weeks. Tottenham need someone who can support Dominic Solanke in the attack. The England international has not been a prolific goalscorer for them. On the other hand, Chelsea needs an upgrade on Liam Delap, who has not been able to make the desired impact at the London club. It will be interesting to see where Asllani ends up eventually.
Oscar Mingueza has been linked with a move away from Spanish club Celta Vigo at the end of the season.
The 27-year-old will be a free agent in the summer, and the Spanish outfit has failed to secure a contract agreement with him so far. Aston Villa and West Ham United are keen on the defender, and he’s likely to move on.
The Spanish club is hoping to keep him beyond this season and has already offered him an extension. However, the two parties have not been able to come to an agreement. Mingueza has recently switched agents, and Celta Vigo have had no talks with his new representatives about a new deal, according to Estadio Deportivo.
The situation will be a boost for Aston Villa and West Ham United. It remains to be seen which of the two clubs can get the deal done. They need more quality and depth in the defensive unit, and the 27-year-old could be ideal for them. He has the quality and the experience to thrive in English football, and the opportunity to move to England will be exciting for the player as well. He is at the peak of his career, and this is the right time for him to take on a fresh challenge.
Aston Villa is pushing for Champions League qualification and needs a deeper, higher-quality squad next season. The 27-year-old right back could be a very useful option for them.
Meanwhile, West Ham is fighting for survival in the Premier League. The defender might want to join a competitive team and Aston Villa is likely to be a more attractive destination for him..
Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the Sporting CP star Maxi Araujo, and they are likely to scout him against Arsenal.
The Portuguese club will be up against Arsenal in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday night, and Araujo is likely to be in action.
According to a report from SportWitness, the two London clubs have already made contact with the player’s representatives, and it remains to be seen whether they come forward with an official offer in the summer.
Araujo can operate as a left-back as well as a left-sided winger. He has 10 goal contributions this season, and he could prove to be a quality acquisition for both clubs.
Chelsea needs more depth in the left-back department and could compete with Marc Cucurella for the starting spot. More competition for places will help Chelsea improve as a team. On the other hand, Tottenham need a quality long-term replacement for Ben Davies. The Sporting CP star would be ideal for them. He could compete with Souza for the starting spot next season.
Destiny Udogie has been quite mediocre, and he has been linked with a move away from Tottenham. Araujo could be a quality alternative.
The defender has a £69 million release clause in his contract, but he could be sold for half of that fee. It is highly unlikely any club will agree to trigger his release clause in the summer.
The opportunity to join Chelsea or Tottenham could be exciting for the defender, and it remains to be seen where he ends up. The 26-year-old is at the peak of his career, and this is the right time for him to move to the Premier League and take on a new challenge.
Liverpool are interested in signing the Palmeiras prodigy Erick Bele at the end of the season.
According to reports, they are keeping tabs on the 19-year-old attacking midfielder and believe he could be a quality long-term investment. Liverpool could use more technical ability and creativity in the final third, and the midfielder is capable of operating centrally as well as on the flanks.
He will add goals and creativity to the team. Bele has seven goal contributions in 12 matches, and it is no surprise that top clubs are monitoring him closely. He could prove to be an interesting long-term acquisition for Liverpool if they manage to get the deal done. Although he’s not ready for the Premier League yet, the Reds could groom him into an important first-team player for the future.
According to reports from ESPN and RTI Esporte, the player could cost around €40 million, but Liverpool are hoping to secure his signature for a fee of around €20 million. It remains to be seen whether the two clubs can find common ground in negotiations.
Bele is a young player with a lot of potential, and he could develop into a star in future. However, he remains unproven at the highest level, and securing €40 million from his departure will be difficult.
Palmeiras will have to be more reasonable with their demands. The player has a contract with the Brazilian club until December 2028, and the club has no pressure to sell him. It remains to be seen how Liverpool convince them to do a deal for Bele.
The opportunity to join Liverpool will be very exciting for the young midfielder, and continued exposure in England could help him improve further.
Liverpool are reportedly leading the race to sign Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, with the Spanish giants now open to offers following a reported dip in confidence at the Santiago Bernabéu.
In a shock update from L’Equipe (subscription required), Real Madrid have removed the 23-year-old from their “non-transferable” list for the first time since his arrival from Rennes in 2021.
The Premier League champions are said to be on “red alert”, viewing this as a rare opportunity to land a player they have tracked since his teenage years in France.
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Bidding war looms with Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United
Both Arsenal and Manchester United are monitoring the situation closely.
Chelsea are also interested, with The Daily Briefing previously reporting that the Blues along with Liverpool have made fresh contacts with Camavinga’s entourage.
The report from France suggests that Real Madrid are bracing for a bidding war but have already established a clear financial threshold.
Los Blancos will reportedly not consider any bids below £50 million (€58m).
For a player under contract until 2029, this figure is seen as a relative bargain by English clubs, especially given Camavinga’s pedigree as a two-time Champions League winner.
Liverpool’s long-term pursuit of Camavinga
Liverpool’s interest in the France international is far from a recent development. The club’s recruitment team has kept extensive files on Camavinga for years, even attempting to hijack his move to Madrid back in 2021.
The urgency has intensified following a series of defensive lapses at Real Madrid, most notably in a recent defeat to Mallorca where former Liverpool defender Alvaro Arbeloa publicly criticised the midfielder’s concentration.
With Liverpool’s midfield being one of their weakest points this season, the Reds could do with a player of Camavinga’s profile to strengthen the midfield.
Enzo Fernandez is reportedly prepared to take the nuclear option to secure a dream move to Real Madrid, with the Argentine midfielder set to submit a formal transfer request to the Chelsea hierarchy.
According to the Spanish television programme El Chiringuito (as reported by Goal), the 25-year-old has decided to stop dropping hints and instead take a “decisive stance” to facilitate his exit from Stamford Bridge.
The report suggests that Fernandez views a move to the Santiago Bernabéu as his priority and is willing to force Chelsea’s hand to ensure the deal progresses this summer.
Enzo Fernandez punished by Chelsea for international break remarks
The relationship between Fernandez and Chelsea has soured significantly following the March international break.
During these interactions, Fernandez expressed a desire to live in Madrid, citing the language and culture as a perfect fit for his family.
These remarks, coming at a time when Chelsea had just suffered a humiliating 8-2 aggregate exit from the Champions League at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain, were deemed “disappointing” by Rosenior.
Consequently, the Argentine was axed from the squad for the FA Cup quarter-final against Port Vale and will also miss this weekend’s critical Premier League clash against Manchester City.
Enzo Fernandez’s time at Chelsea coming to an end?
Since his British-record £106.8 million move from Benfica in January 2023, Fernandez has been a central figure in the Chelsea project.
In the current 2025/26 campaign, he has registered 12 goals and 6 assists across 46 appearances, often wearing the captain’s armband in the absence of Reece James.
However, despite his individual quality, Chelsea’s lack of consistent success has reportedly left the midfielder disillusioned.
El Chiringuito explains that the main hurdle remains Chelsea’s staggering valuation, which could reach €150 million (£131m).
Real Madrid are reportedly aware of Chelsea’s firm stance, backed by a contract that runs until 2032, and may intentionally delay a formal bid until the final week of August to pressure the London club into lowering their demands.
Manchester United are now being tipped to make at least one, but probably two signings in midfield this summer, as per Fabrizio Romano on his latest YouTube post.
Man Utd seem inclined to make it a double signing in that area of their squad due to the fact that both Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte will need replacing this summer.
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Kobbie Mainoo will be staying, but the fact that Casemiro and Ugarte will both be heading for the exit means United could look for two replacements in that department.
Fabrizio Romano on Manchester United signing two midfielders
“Man United decision for the midfield position for the summer transfer window is going in a direction to sign eventually two midfielders not just one,” Romano said.
“My information today is that Manchester United are oriented to go for two midfielders – for one reason that Casemiro is leaving … And the other update I can give you today is that according to my information, Manuel Ugarte could also leave Manchester United in the summer transfer window.
“Some movements have already started to find a solution for Manuel Ugarte. So you can imagine with Casemiro leaving, with Ugarte leaving, with Man United probably playing Champions League football, for sure playing European football, it means that Man United need two more midfielders.
“And so the decision of the club is one guaranteed, but the second is starting to become almost guaranteed as a new signing to do for Manchester United. So one for sure, 100%, but could be two.”
A long list of other names have also been mentioned, however, such as Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton, Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes, and Joao Gomes, as per Manchester World.
Who would your ideal choices be if United were to sign two midfielders this summer? Let us know in the comments!
This time last year it would have seemed unthinkable, but there’s a genuine case growing for Liverpool to sack manager Arne Slot after a disastrous second season in charge.
The Dutch tactician enjoyed the best possible start at Liverpool last term, appearing to rejuvenate a team that had perhaps gone a little stale under the legendary Jurgen Klopp, firing them to Premier League glory – just their second title since 1990.
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But how quickly perceptions can change, as it now looks increasingly like Slot simply inherited a great team from Klopp and got a little lucky that both Manchester City and Arsenal were worse than usual.
There’s more to it than that, of course, so where has it gone wrong for Slot and how much is it his fault?
Mohamed Salah’s loss of form
While Mohamed Salah declining a little at the age of 33 is perhaps to be expected, no one predicted that such a sharp dip in performances would come so quickly. Slot wasn’t the one who handed the veteran Egyptian forward a new contract off the back of such a sensational season last term, so it seems harsh to blame him here.
In fact, Slot has arguably dealt with this difficult situation admirably, having tried to ease Salah out of the team without too much drama, only to find that the LFC front-man wasn’t happy to play ball. Even after this very public row, Slot managed to stop it turning into an Erik ten Hag vs Cristiano Ronaldo repeat, with Salah now back in the first-team fold (and still playing really poorly, it must be said) and preparing for an emotional send-off this summer.
Liverpool did strengthen in attack last summer, so perhaps there was some element of preparing for life after Salah, but a slow start for Florian Wirtz and an injury-hit campaign from Alexander Isak has undoubtedly derailed the changes Slot would have ideally liked to have been able to make.
Style of play
Somewhere Slot has to take the blame, however, is the absolutely dire football Liverpool have produced for so much of this season.
Leaky at the back and predictable going forward, we’ve seen far too many games this season where opponents simply found it too easy to play through Slot’s team, with Manchester City’s 4-0 win at the weekend a prime example. If there’s a repeat of that kind of performance against Paris Saint-Germain this week, we’re surely going to see a similar score-line.
Even more worryingly, Slot doesn’t seem to have any answer for this. Click here for what feels like one of many examples this season when the former Feyenoord boss has been left completely taken aback and unprepared for what Liverpool’s opponents were going to do in a game.
? Liverpool fans and neutrals – should Liverpool sack Arne Slot?
Let’s be honest, there isn’t really a precedent in modern football for a tragedy like this, with Liverpool’s players and coaching staff all still mourning a teammate and friend in Diogo Jota.
The Portuguese forward was tragically killed along with his brother in a car crash last summer, and it’s important to remember that even the top level of professional footballers are only human – this news was a huge shock, and grief takes a long time to get over. Whilst not wishing to speak for anyone involved, it simply can’t be ruled out that this loss continues to affect mood, confidence, and sap everyone’s energy inside Anfield.
Needless to say, there’s really nothing any manager could have done about this. Slot, just like everyone else at the club, will have been hurting, and there’s no managerial template for how to lift a dressing room after such a tragedy. While there may be legitimate criticisms to be made about tactics and recruitment, there can be no playing down the trauma this group has gone through and may continue to go through for a while longer yet.
Where do Liverpool fans stand?
“I’ve been behind Arne Slot for the vast majority of the campaign,” says Farrell Keeling of Empire of the Kop. “I’ve cited genuine mitigating factors, like the tragedy of Diogo Jota’s passing ahead of the season, the loss of Trent Alexander-Arnold, the absence of pace on the wings, the failure to sign Marc Guehi… and the list goes on.
“While I appreciate there will still be many keen to back the Dutchman (Liverpool is, after all, a manager’s club), I’ve now personally reached a point where the arguments against Slot are overwhelming any reasons or mitigating factors that might see him last beyond the 2025/26 season.
“That’s an awful place to be in as a Liverpool fan, not least of all because Arne Slot gave me one of the happiest days of my life last term, as Liverpool finally lifted the Premier League title in front of the supporters.
“But the warning signs are there in black and white: players “giving up” (in Virgil van Dijk’s own words) at the first hurdle, and the manager seemingly at a total loss to inspire any kind of consistent improvement.”
Liam Togher, also of Empire of the Kop, agrees, saying: “First of all, Arne Slot has my eternal gratitude for winning the Premier League title last season, irrespective of whatever else happens from here.
“I’m not one for turning on a manager/head coach after a few bad results, and I didn’t turn against Slot when the Reds went through a dreadful run in the autumn. However, with no signs of lessons being learned from that slump, the case for keeping the Dutchman has become increasingly difficult to make, especially if (as I think will happen) LFC miss out on Champions League qualification.
This season has become devoid of any enjoyment from a Liverpool perspective, and while that isn’t all on Slot (players and hierarchy are also culpable), unfortunately he must carry a significant portion of responsibility for the malaise over the past six months.
“Champions League qualification is a must if he’s to keep his job, and even then he has a huge task on his hands to win back his detractors. If Liverpool fail in that mission, I suspect a change will be made in the summer.”
While Slot isn’t the only Liverpool figure to blame for the team’s slump, Farrell reiterates that the alarming drop-off from so many of the players who performed so well last season is ultimately the manager’s responsibility.
“Would things be drastically better with a pair of pacey wingers and a centre-back having arrived in the summer? Yes, of course. Should the likes of Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes bear some collective responsibility for not handing the manager enough of the right tools? Yes, of course,” Farrell adds.
“But the scale of the drop-off from last season’s title success isn’t acceptable. A gutless performance in the 4-0 defeat (that flattered the visitors after the first 30 minutes) to Man City in the FA Cup isn’t acceptable. Potentially dropping out of the Champions League places (even with England likely to be gifted an additional spot) isn’t acceptable.
The Uruguay international is likely to leave the Saudi Pro League for a return to Europe, having struggled in front of goal in recent times.
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Nunez wasn’t entirely convincing during his time at Liverpool either, though he did win the Premier League title in his final season at Anfield last term.
According to Fichajes, he now looks set to get the opportunity to move to Juventus, who are targeting him as an option to bolster their depth up front.
This would suggest Juve are now ahead of Chelsea in the race to sign Nunez, with our sources unable to give us a significant update since our report last month.
Darwin Nunez could revive his career at Juventus
Nunez showed some potential during his time at Liverpool, as well as during his time as a youngster at Benfica.
Even if things haven’t gone entirely to plan for him in recent times as he fell down the pecking order before being sold by Liverpool, it’s perfectly possible that he could still turn his career around.
The 26-year-old might find that playing in Serie A is a better fit for him than the fast pace of English football, while he’d also have better players around him than he’s had at Al Hilal.
Chelsea might also have done well to bring in a more experienced striker as a squad player at the very least, having invested so much in such a youthful squad.
Still, Blues fans probably won’t mind too much if the club’s interest doesn’t end up advancing at this stage.
Liverpool and Arsenal may reportedly have been dealt a blow regarding their transfer pursuit of Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga.
There have been plenty of recent transfer reports casting doubt over Camavinga’s Real Madrid future, but it seems his preference is to stay at the Bernabeu, according to Fichajes.
The Spanish outlet states that Real would ideally like to sell Camavinga, but the France international himself could put a spanner in the works as he doesn’t want to leave.
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It remains to be seen what the outcome here will be, with other reputable outlets like L’Equipelinking Camavinga with Liverpool and stating that his Madrid future is increasingly uncertain.
Meanwhile, we’ve been reliably informed by sources in the industry that Camavinga has been offered to Arsenal as a move is anticipated for this summer.
Does Eduardo Camavinga have a future at Real Madrid?
While Real Madrid might not be able to force Camavinga out, it’s hard to see a world in which he stays at the club when they don’t want him.
The 23-year-old is too good to simply spend the season warming the bench, and he’ll surely get good chances to play regularly for other top clubs around Europe.
Liverpool could do with changing things up and might find that Camavinga is a good partner for Ryan Gravenberch in midfield.
Arsenal, meanwhile, probably don’t urgently need the former Rennes ace, but would probably be tempted to bring in someone to at least provide them with a better rotation option to Christian Norgaard, thereby allowing Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi more opportunities to rest.
Real will surely do what they can to offload Camavinga this summer as it seems very clear that’s the plan they’re leaking to the press as they look to build up interest in the player.
Manchester United look to have been given hope of poaching Cole Palmer from rivals Chelsea amid ongoing uncertainty over his future.
Although Palmer is on a long-term contract at Chelsea, which runs until 2033, it seems Blues fans could have some cause for concern over the England international’s future.
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“There’s constant noise which I suspect will get louder about Cole Palmer wanting out as well,” Luke Edwards told BBC Sport. “This is the problem Chelsea and BlueCo have when they run it like a business. They’ve recruited all these players on long-term contracts but it’s a short career.
“These players might not see that they’re going to win the big prizes at Chelsea so they might want out.”
Cole Palmer transfer saga – how it’s played out
See below for a timeline of recent Palmer transfer speculation as a variety of sources have cast doubt over him staying at Stamford Bridge…
The 23-year-old has been a star performer for CFC, though it is also worth noting that his form has dipped in recent times, so it might not be the worst idea for the west London club to cash in on him soon.
Chelsea will probably try to avoid selling Palmer to a Premier League rival, but there could be tempting big offers from abroad that would allow them to make a huge profit on the player.
The Netherlands international is also said to be a target for Roma, Atalanta, and Como, while Bundesliga duo Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund are monitoring his situation as well, according to Graeme Bailey of TEAMtalk.
See below as Bailey has posted on X about Zirkzee being most likely to return to Serie A this summer…
Joshua Zirkzee’s representatives are actively exploring his next move ahead of the summer window, with @TEAMtalk understanding that a return to Italy is currently the most likely outcome for the Manchester United forward.https://t.co/sRxm1xhNTh
The 24-year-old’s poor form during his time with MUFC means there will surely be clubs reluctant to pay up to sign him permanently for the time being.
It’s possible that Zirkzee will get back to his best in Serie A, where he shone as a youngster at Bologna, but that’s still a gamble plenty of clubs will probably be reluctant to take.
Major Man United exits this summer
We could see a major clear-out at United this summer, with Sky Sports naming Zirkzee alongside other big names like Manuel Ugarte, Andre Onana, and Rasmus Hojlund as players likely to be moved on at the end of this campaign.
Others like Casemiro and Jadon Sancho will also be leaving as they are due to be out of contract.
Earlier this season it looked like Maguire could be coming to the end of his time as a Man Utd player, as his previous deal was due to expire this summer.
We reported on clubs showing an interest in signing Maguire, including Chelsea, but the veteran defender has instead opted to remain at Old Trafford.
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This will surely be seen as good news by United fans as Maguire’s recent form has improved a lot, with the 33-year-old showing what an important member of this squad he can be.
Harry Maguire on signing new Manchester United contract
United have confirmed Maguire’s new contract on their official site this morning, with the player quoted as saying how happy he is to be staying.
“Representing Manchester United is the ultimate honour. It is a responsibility that makes myself and my family proud every single day,” Maguire said.
“I am delighted to extend my journey at this incredible club to at least eight seasons and continue to play in front of our special supporters to create more amazing moments together.
“You can feel the ambition and potential of this exciting squad. The determination throughout the whole club to fight for major trophies is clear for everyone to see and I am confident that our best moments together remain ahead of us.”
Kobbie Mainoo next for Manchester United?
With Maguire’s deal now done, Fabrizio Romano expects Kobbie Mainoo to be next, as per a recent post on his YouTube channel.
Maguire staying is a big boost, but probably only a short-term measure, whereas keeping hold of Mainoo will surely be crucial for the club’s future.
The 20-year-old has shown immense potential during his time in the MUFC first-team and he looks like he has many more years of quality performances ahead of him.
The pundit named Anderson as his preferred target over the likes of Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes, saying he could see the England international being the perfect partner to complement Kobbie Mainoo.
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Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand praised Anderson for his aggression and all-round playing style.
Rio Ferdinand on Elliot Anderson transfer
“It is Elliot Anderson, he is 23, Guimaraes is 28, Tonali is 25, soon to be 26, so that counts for a lot for me. I want young hungry players in my squad.
“He complements Mainoo, because I think Kobbie is going to be one of the main players in the team now, going to build around him and I think Elliot Anderson absolutely complements him.
“They are different, Anderson has that mobility, that energy to get around the park, aggressive, we need those legs and he wins the ball. He is more competitive than the other two.”
Manchester United given Elliot Anderson transfer boost
BBC Sport suggested United would not give up battling City for the 23-year-old’s signature, and now Florian Plettenberg has posted below about MCFC focusing more on a new contract for Rodri…
?? Forest expect Manchester United to remain seriously in the race for Elliot #Anderson. Manchester City have also registered their interest, although their current focus is on extending Rodri’s contract. #MUFC#MCFC
Even if City would be a tempting destination for Anderson after all their recent success, it might also be worth thinking about his playing time there if they remain so keen on keeping Rodri.
The Spain international would likely remain first choice for Pep Guardiola’s side, and so Anderson might do better to join MUFC and have the team built around him.
Liverpool have already had a meeting with the Gestifute agency representing West Ham United central midfielder Mateus Fernandes.
Sources with connections to the agents industry have informed me that Liverpool have discussed a potential deal for Fernandes, as first reported here for the Daily Briefing.
The 21-year-old has impressed with the Hammers this season and it seems the east Londoners are resigned to the fact that they might have to sell for good enough offers this summer, whether they manage to avoid relegation or not.
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Liverpool in Mateus Fernandes transfer contact
For now, my understanding is that Liverpool have the most advanced interest in Fernandes, having spoken with his representatives to sound out interest over a possible move.
Fernandes is also attracting admiring glances from Arsenal and Manchester City, but there have not been any approaches made by these clubs yet.
“Liverpool have had a meeting with someone from Gestifute,” one source told me. “They’re looking at Mateus Fernandes as a serious option in midfield this summer.”
This comes amid speculation that Alexis Mac Allister could be leaving LFC, but I’ve not had this confirmed at this stage even if Fernandes would make sense as a like-for-like replacement.
Mac Allister’s form has dipped a bit this term, while Fernandes has shown himself to be one of the most exciting young talents in the Premier League.
The 21-year-old also shone at previous club Southampton before moving to West Ham once they got relegated, so it makes sense that something similar could happen again this year as he’s surely too good to be playing at this level.
Mateus Fernandes asking price revealed
Sources tell me that West Ham are obviously not keen to sell Fernandes, but they’re realistic about the situation and will probably accept something in the region of £55m for the Portugal international.
I cannot yet confirm what sort of budget Liverpool will be working with this summer, as a lot of that will depend on whether or not they qualify for the Champions League.
Liverpool are reportedly not currently in contact over re-signing Jarrell Quansah, but have a buy-back clause option until the end of May.
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That’s according to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg on X, with the reporter claiming the Reds have the option to bring Quansah back for a fee of €80m.
See below, however, as Plettenberg claims Liverpool’s current priority in defence is to sort out a new contract for Ibrahima Konate, who is close to the end of his deal…
?? Liverpool still have the option to activate a buy-back clause for Jarell #Quansah until the end of May, set at €80 million.
So far, however, Leverkusen have received no indication – neither from the player nor from Liverpool. #LFC‘s current focus is on extending Ibrahima… pic.twitter.com/nCYRJ8nsAB
Plettenberg posted: “Liverpool still have the option to activate a buy-back clause for Jarell #Quansah until the end of May, set at €80 million. So far, however, Leverkusen have received no indication – neither from the player nor from Liverpool. #LFC‘s current focus is on extending Ibrahima Konaté’s contract.”
Jarrell Quansah transfer return could be a sensible option for Liverpool
Even if Konate does stay, LFC surely need another signing in defence this summer after the dip in form of Virgil van Dijk.
Quansah didn’t really put a foot wrong during his first spell at Anfield, but before he left it was hard for him to get regular playing time.
That would probably be easier for the 23-year-old now, with Liverpool in need of more options and fresh blood for next season after this disappointing campaign.
€80m looks like a lot to pay for Quansah, but it’s probably an option worth considering as there probably won’t be many other easily affordable options out there on the market.
Quansah has improved a lot since his move to Leverkusen and now looks ready to come in and make an impact at Liverpool.
Manchester United are likely to be weighing up a number of candidates to become their next manager, with one club official said to be unsure about hiring Michael Carrick for the permanent role.
Carrick is currently interim manager at Old Trafford, and he’s surely done his chances of landing the job no harm after a strong start since replacing Ruben Amorim.
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So far, Carrick’s record as Man Utd interim manager reads as: played 10, won 7, drawn 2, lost 1.
Not everyone’s convinced, however, with a team of five relite reporters posting on X that one United official is unsure about Carrick, even if he’s looking outnumbered at the moment.
Should Michael Carrick get the Manchester United job?
Carrick isn’t the biggest or most experienced name in football management, but that shouldn’t necessarily count against him.
The Red Devils might be tempted to hire a more proven winner, but things didn’t exactly work out that well for them under the likes of Jose Mourinho and Louis van Gaal in the past.
Carrick is showing that he can do the job, and perhaps he can follow in the footsteps of other inexperienced managers who started well at big clubs.
That patient approach has worked well for Arsenal under Mikel Arteta, whose move to take over at the Emirates Stadium was his first job in management.
It’s also easy to forget that Pep Guardiola was a gamble when he first became Barcelona manager after his only prior experience was with their B team.
Other Manchester United candidates
Some big names like Xabi Alonso and Xavi are currently out of work, which will surely affect United’s thinking, while there’ll also be others leaving their current clubs soon.
Oliver Glasner has confirmed he’ll be leaving Crystal Palace at the end of this season, while Andoni Iraola is also coming towards the end of his contract with Bournemouth.
With the 2026 World Cup coming up, it will also surely be worth keeping an eye on if big names like Thomas Tuchel, Julian Nagelsmann, and Carlo Ancelotti keep their jobs.
Manchester United are reportedly still very much in the race for the transfer of Nottingham Forest central midfielder Elliot Anderson.
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According to Florian Plettenberg, no club has made contact yet over signing Anderson, and it may even be that Manchester City have other priorities.
See below for Plettenberg’s post on X as he explains that Man Utd still look to be in the race with City, who are currently perhaps more focused on a new contract for Rodri instead…
?? Forest expect Manchester United to remain seriously in the race for Elliot #Anderson. Manchester City have also registered their interest, although their current focus is on extending Rodri’s contract. #MUFC#MCFC
“Forest expect Manchester United to remain seriously in the race for Elliot #Anderson. Manchester City have also registered their interest, although their current focus is on extending Rodri’s contract,” the Sky Germany journalist said.
He added: “So far, no club has made direct contact with Forest. A fee in the region of £100-120 million is still being demanded.”
Elliot Anderson transfer saga hots up
Up until now, there has been a lot of speculation about Anderson’s future, with many outlets suggesting City were the frontrunners for the England international.
That’s what has been reported by BBC Sport, though they did also suggest that United wouldn’t give up on Anderson.
Plettenberg’s post gives the Red Devils hope of landing one of the most exciting midfield players in Europe this season, with Anderson putting in a series of superb displays for club and country and looking like someone who’s bound to shine at the 2026 World Cup.
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Leao has been a key player for Milan down the years, and there’s often been speculation that top Premier League clubs could try to sign him.
That hasn’t happened so far, but a recent report from Football Transfers stated that Arsenal were in initial discussions over a potential €80m deal this summer.
See below as Fabrizio Romano has quoted Milan chief Tare as appearing to hint at being keen to keep Leao this summer, pointing to the two years he has left on his contract at the San Siro…
???? AC Milan director Igli Tare on Rafa Leão’s future: “Rafa has two years left on his contract and he’s very important for us”.
Arsenal would surely benefit from bringing in something a bit different up front, with Leao’s skill and flair making him an ideal upgrade on inconsistent performers like Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.
Rafael Leao transfer could be a great option for Arsenal
Leao has nine goals and two assists in Serie A this season, despite being limited to only 18 starts so far after a few injury problems.
The Portugal international is clearly more of a goal threat than someone like Martinelli, though his stats below paint an interesting picture in terms of how he compares to Martinelli and Trossard…
Leao vs Martinelli and Trossard (DataMB)
Overall, there are perhaps signs there that Arsenal could do better than Leao, even if he is an option worth considering.
It may also be that the 26-year-old would improve with better players around him, and with a manager like Mikel Arteta to take him to the next level.
Rafael Leao
TOTAL SCORE: 16/25
Transfer fee
**
Performance
****
Achievements
**
Career phase
***
Squad need
*****
See the table above for our Leao to Arsenal Transfer Fit rating (more info on this here) and give us your thoughts on whether he’d be good value for money and the right stylistic fit for this Gunners side.
Chelsea are reportedly in a favourable position with regards to Diego Moreira as he attracts transfer interest from Borussia Dortmund.
The talented 21-year-old, who is currently on the books at Strasbourg, was previously a Chelsea player and they have a “very favourable” buy-back clause for him, according to Florian Plettenberg.
Moreira has impressed during his time in Ligue 1 and is said to be planning a move for this summer, with Dortmund showing an interest in snapping him up.
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???? EXCL | Borussia Dortmund are among the clubs to have Diego #Moreira on their shortlist for the summer.
The 21 y/o, currently under contract at Strasbourg until 2029, is planning a move in the upcoming window, with a potential fee in the region of €30–40 million. #BVB… pic.twitter.com/tFgmFEhj7M
“Borussia Dortmund are among the clubs to have Diego #Moreira on their shortlist for the summer,” Plettenberg posted on X.
“The 21 y/o, currently under contract at Strasbourg until 2029, is planning a move in the upcoming window, with a potential fee in the region of €30–40 million.
“Moreira is highly versatile and can operate in almost any role on the left flank. Chelsea are believed to hold a very favourable buy-back option.”
Who is Diego Moreira and will he return to Chelsea?
Moreira is a 21-year-old wide-player capable of filling in as a full-back, wing-back, or winger, and he’s having a fine season with Strasbourg.
The youngster has three goals and four assists in Ligue 1 so far, and he’s also increasingly been involved with the senior Belgian national team.
Moreira won his first two caps for Belgium in 2025, and also had the option of representing Portugal, whom he played for at various stages of youth level.
Moreira joined Chelsea in 2023 but only ever made one appearance for the club, initially going out on loan to Lyon before his permanent transfer to fellow BlueCo team Strasbourg.
It’s not yet clear if CFC are actually interested in bringing him back, but that buy-back clause gives them that option, though it could also allow them to capitalise on interest from someone like Dortmund and sell the player for a profit.
Liverpool are reportedly one of the clubs on alert as Real Madrid look prepared to let Eduardo Camavinga leave this summer.
That’s according to respected French outlet L’Equipe, who describe Camavinga’s future at the Bernabeu as increasingly uncertain.
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Despite being part of two Champions League-winning sides during his time at Real Madrid, Camavinga’s form has taken a bit of a dip this season and it could be the right time for both parties to go their separate ways.
Our understanding is that Camavinga has also been offered to Arsenal, with the France international likely to prioritise Champions League football when it comes to choosing his next club.
Eduardo Camavinga to Liverpool or Arsenal?
Camavinga has long been regarded as a top talent, and is still only 23 years of age, so one imagines there’ll be a lot of interest in him this summer.
The former Rennes star has been something of a utility player during his time with Los Blancos, filling in in midfield and also occasionally at left-back.
That could make him useful for Liverpool and Arsenal, but he’d perhaps also do well to move somewhere where he’ll be the clear first choice in one position.
It’s not necessarily clear that would happen for him at Anfield or the Emirates Stadium.
Is Eduardo Camavinga good enough?
Camavinga has his qualities, but he doesn’t really look at the moment like he’d be an upgrade on Ryan Gravenberch in that defensive midfield role at LFC.
Meanwhile, it’s also hard to see many players starting over Declan Rice or Martin Zubimendi on a regular basis in Mikel Arteta’s side.
Camavinga might be a useful squad player for these teams, but he’ll probably have to step down to a slightly less competitive level if he wants more playing time and a more important role next season.
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The Argentina international is seemingly set to be allowed to leave Spurs as long as the money is right, and there have been plenty of transfer rumours about his situation recently.
Man Utd have been linked with Romero by Marca, while Fabrizio Romano also posted on X to confirm that there were serious chances for him to leave Tottenham this summer, with clubs already calling to enquire about a deal…
??? Cuti Romero has serious chances to leave Tottenham in the summer.
Top clubs have started to call as exit is a possibility despite new deal signed last summer.
Romero could be open to a sale, as Telegraph and TyC Sports reported.
Romano also added that Romero himself would be open to leaving THFC for a new chapter, and there’s now been a further update from Fichajes as Atletico Madrid are linked as his main suitor.
Cristian Romero asking price revealed
The Fichajes report states that Spurs will let Romero go for around €50m (£43.5m), with the north Londoners not prepared to lose such an important player on the cheap.
Atletico Madrid are said to have identified Romero as an ideal target to bolster their defence, and one imagines the 27-year-old could also do a job for United.
The Red Devils already have decent defensive options, though, so it’s not clear yet if it would make sense for them to spend a decent chunk of their budget on Romero.
Where next for Cristian Romero?
It will be interesting to see what happens with Romero this summer, but one imagines Tottenham would prefer to sell him abroad.
Of course, it will also be important to see what happens with Spurs in the next few games, as relegation to the Championship will surely complicate things.
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Yves Bissouma wants to move on
The player will be out of contract at Tottenham in the summer, but they have an option to trigger a one-year extension in his deal. However, the Mali International is unhappy with his treatment at the Premier League club and does not wish to extend his deal. It will be interesting to see if he can secure a move in the summer.
There is no doubt that he is a quality player, and he has proven his ability in the Premier League with Brighton. Moving to Turkey could be ideal for him. He needs a fresh start at this stage of his career, and the Turkish outfit will provide him with the opportunity he needs.
Meanwhile, Tottenham will look to bring in a quality replacement for him in the summer. They need more quality and depth in the middle of the park. Keeping the International against his wishes makes no sense, and it would be ideal for the north London club to let him move on.
It will be interesting to see where the player ends up.
The midfielder joined Tottenham in 2022 for a fee of around £30 million, and he has had multiple disciplinary problems at the north London club.
Leeds United striker Joe Gelhardt is currently on loan at Hull City, and he has been quite impressive for them in their push for promotion.
The striker has 17 goal contributions for Hull City this season, and he will be hoping to guide them back to the Premier League. According to journalist James Hoggarth, the player has decided to leave Leeds United permanently at the end of the season, and he wants to join the Tigers.
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Joe Gelhardt has excelled with Hull
He has established himself as a key player for the Tigers, and he wants to play regularly at this stage of his career. Returning to Leeds United does not make much sense for him. He is unwanted at the Premier League club, and he will want to sort out his long-term future quickly. The player has a year left on his current contract with Leeds, and the Premier League will hope to recoup a reasonable sum from his departure in the upcoming window.
Leeds United are fighting for survival in the top flight, and they are 15th in the league table. Even though they are four points above the drop zone, they cannot afford to be complacent now. They will need to perform at a high level in order to guarantee their place in the Premier League next season.
They will look to further improve the team in the summer, and selling players like Gelhardt will bring in funds to fund quality additions.
Newcastle United are interested in signing the German defender Karim Coulibaly at the end of the season.
The 18-year-old has impressed with Werder Bremen, and he could be on the move this summer. According to a report from Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle have now joined the race for his signature. The defender is reportedly ready to embark on a new chapter in his career.
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Karim Coulibaly is a top talent
Coulibaly has made his mark in the first team at Bremen and has established himself as an important player for the German outfit. He has the quality to succeed in English football as well, and the central defender could develop into a key player for Newcastle with the right guidance.
They need more quality and depth in the defensive unit. They need to find quality long-term replacements for players like Dan Burn and Fabian Schar. The Germany under 21 international could be the ideal long-term investment for them.
It will be interesting to see if Newcastle act on their interest with an official proposal at the end of the season. They have an exciting project, and they are looking to build an ambitious team. The young defender could be attracted to the idea of joining them. Regular Premier League exposure could help him develop further and accelerate his progress. Newcastle have the financial muscle to get the deal across the line as well.
Romano claims that five other European clubs are also interested in signing the defender. Bremen will not want to lose a talented young player like him, and they will hope for a bidding war over his signature.
Newcastle should look to move quickly in order to get ahead of their rivals in the race for Coulibaly’s signature.
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Crysencio Summerville to leave?
The only way he could leave West Ham in the summer is if they go down. They are currently fighting for survival in the Premier League. It remains to be seen whether they can finish the season strongly and secure their place in the top flight for the upcoming campaign as well. Meanwhile, the report adds that Leeds United will consider a move for the Netherlands International if they can secure safety as well. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
Summerville has done reasonably well at West Ham, and a return to Leeds United could be an interesting option. The Whites need more quality in the attack, and the 24-year-old could help them improve. He knows the club well, and he could make an immediate impact. He has registered 11 goal contributions this season, and he could add a new dimension to the Leeds attack.
Meanwhile, West Ham are already lacking in depth in the attacking unit, and they cannot afford to lose the Dutch attacker. They will be desperate to keep him at the club for as long as possible. There is no doubt that they have the players required to secure safety in the Premier League. Nuno Espirito Santo is an experienced manager who could play a key role in their survival.
Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing the Manchester City defender Rico Lewis at the end of the season.
The 21-year-old could be made available in the summer, and Newcastle are hoping to secure his signature. According to a report from the Chronicle, the player has fallen down the pecking order at Etihad, and they are prepared to cash in on him.
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Rico Lewis needs a move
Lewis has shown his quality in the Premier League with Manchester City, and he could be an important player for Newcastle. The opportunity to play regularly in the Premier League will be quite exciting for Lewis, and Newcastle will be able to provide him with that platform.
The defender has a contract with Manchester City until 2030, and they could demand over £30 million for him.
It will be interesting to see if Newcastle is willing to pay that kind of money for the Manchester City defender. Lewis is a talented young player with a bright future, and he might be able to justify the investment in the long-term. The asking price might seem expensive now, but it could be a solid long-term investment for Newcastle.
They need a deeper, higher-quality squad to compete regularly in Europe, and they need to plug the gaps during the summer transfer window.
Lewis will be desperate for regular opportunities at this stage of his career, and Newcastle have an exciting project. He is likely to be tempted if they come in the summer. It remains to be seen whether the two clubs can finalise a deal in the coming months.
Arsenal will be up against Sporting CP in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, and they will be without Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber.
Manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that both players will miss the first leg of the quarter-finals against the Portuguese outfit, but they could return at the weekend.
Arteta said on Saka and Timber (h/t Fabrizio Romano): “They’re not ready yet. Let’s see. Hopefully, they’re going to be ready for the weekend if everything goes well”.
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Injury blow for Arsenal confirmed
Arsenal are coming into this game on the back of a disappointing FA Cup exit against Southampton, and they will be desperate to bounce back strongly. They will look to secure a positive result in the first leg, and the absence of Saka and Timber could be a blow for them. Both players have been very important for Arsenal.
That said, Arsenal have a formidable squad and should be able to deal with the absence of the two players. Furthermore, the class gap between the two teams is significant, and Arsenal should be able to grind out a result against Sporting CP, even without two key players.
Arsenal are in the business end of the season, and they cannot afford to lose key players to injury right now. They are in the driving seat when it comes to the Premier League title race, and they will be hoping to win the league title this season. They will also look to progress further in the UEFA Champions League and win their first European Cup.
The Gunners have already struggled in attack at times this season, and Saka’s absence could further complicate matters. Even though Saka has not been at his best this season, he is still a difference maker for Arsenal in the final third. Timber has been exceptional in the full-back role as well. It remains to be seen whether the two players can return to action quickly.
Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate has been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season.
The French international will be out of contract in the summer, and they have not yet been able to agree on a new contract with the player. According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool are now on the verge of agreeing on a new deal with the 26-year-old French international.
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Liverpool have agreement in place with Ibrahima Konate
Barcelona and Bayern Munich were also monitoring his situation.
Konate has had a mediocre season so far, but he is a quality player who has consistently shown his ability in the Premier League. He is certainly one of the best defenders in the league when he is on form. Keeping him at the club will prove to be a wise decision for Liverpool.
It remains to be seen whether the two parties can complete the deal’s formalities and wrap up the agreement quickly. His decision to commit his long-term future to the club will come as a huge boost for Liverpool. It has been a disappointing season for them, and they need to lift the club’s spirits.
It will be interesting to see whether Liverpool can focus on their on-pitch performance and finish the season strongly. Konate will look to sort out his long-term future quickly and focus on his football as well.
Crysencio Summerville has been linked with a move away from West Ham United at the end of the season.
The London club is currently struggling for safety in the Premier League, and it remains to be seen whether they can survive in the top flight.
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Crysencio Summerville is on the radar of multiple clubs
According to a report from TuttoAtalanta, multiple Premier League clubs are keeping tabs on his situation, and they could look to make a move for him in the summer. Tottenham, Aston Villa, Bournemouth, Brentford, and Everton are all keen on securing his signature. The player could cost around €30 million, and it remains to be seen how the situation develops.
Tottenham need more quality on the flank, and the Dutch attacker could be a useful acquisition. He is well settled in English football, and he could make an immediate impact. The opportunity to join Spurs will be exciting for him. Summerville has 11 goal contributions this season.
However, Tottenham are fighting for survival as well. They have had a disastrous season, and it remains to be seen whether they can stay up.
They will need to improve the attacking unit in the summer, and investing in Summerville could be a wise decision. The 24-year-old will want to compete at a high level and fight for trophies. Even though Tottenham are struggling right now, they have quality players at their disposal and have brought in a quality manager like Roberto De Zerbi. There is no reason why they cannot bounce back strongly next season and compete towards the top end of the table.
They have the resources to pay the asking price as well. The Netherlands international could justify the investment and help them improve going forward.
Liverpool and Chelsea continue to be linked with Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig.
The 19-year-old has been excellent in the Bundesliga, and he is on the radar of multiple clubs this summer. Spanish Champions Barcelona are also monitoring his situation. It remains to be seen whether they decide to make an approach for him in the summer.
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Yan Diomande is a player in demand
According to a report from SPORT via SportWitness, the player could cost around €70 million. The two Premier League clubs are prepared to offer over €60 million to get the deal done, and it remains to be seen whether Barcelona can match that. The report claims that Barcelona are facing financial constraints and will only be able to afford the 19-year-old African winger if they sell any of their existing attackers.
Financially, the Premier League clubs are clearly well placed to get the deal done, and it remains to be seen where Diomande ends up. He is a young player with a lot of potential, and he could develop into a star in future.
The move to the Premier League could be the ideal next step in his career. He has shown his quality in the Bundesliga, and he has the technical attributes to make an immediate impact in England as well.
The 19-year-old has previously admitted that he would love to play for Liverpool in future. He is a boyhood Liverpool fan, and his father dreams of watching him play for the Premier League champions. The Reds might have an advantage in the race for his signature.
Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa are looking to strengthen their defensive units in the summer, and they have identified the Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic as a target.
The defender has impressed with his performances in Italy with Sassuolo, and he could prove to be a quality addition for the two English clubs. According to reports via SportWitness, the player could cost around €30 million.
The Italian club signed him for €5 million and is now looking to make a substantial profit. It remains to be seen whether the Premier League club will come forward with an official offer to get the deal done.
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Spurs could use Tarik Muharemovic
Tottenham could use more quality in depth in the defensive unit. Cristian Romero has been linked with a move away from the club, and they need to replace him properly. Muharemovic could be a quality long-term investment for them. The opportunity to join the Premier League club will be exciting for the 23-year-old as well. He is a young player with a lot of promise, and they could groom him into a future star.
On the other hand, Aston Villa need a quality long-term replacement for Tyrone Mings.
They are pushing for Champions League qualification in the upcoming campaign, and they could be an attractive destination for the young defender.
It will be interesting to see which of the two clubs comes forward with an official offer to sign the player. They have the resources to pay €30 million for him, and the young defender might be able to justify the investment in future.
Muharemovic has the physicality and technical attributes for English football, and he will look to establish himself as a reliable defender in the Premier League if a transfer goes through.
Chelsea and Manchester United are interested in signing Kerim Alajbegovic at the end of the season.
The 18 year-old winger has impressed with Red Bull Salzburg, and his performances have attracted the attention of the Premier League club. However, Bayer Leverkusen recently announced that the player will join them in a long-term deal.
He was a youth player for the German club, and they have decided to bring him back following his impressive performances in Austria. According to a report from Reprezentacija, the German outfit could be open to selling him immediately for a profit, and a deal could be worth around €30 million. Chelsea and Manchester United have already made contact to sign him.
Chelsea and Manchester United could use more quality on the flanks, and the 18-year-old could be a solid long-term acquisition. He will add goals, creativity and unpredictability in the final third. The opportunity to move to England could be exciting for him. Chelsea and Manchester United are elite clubs, and they could groom him into a future star.
However, Alajbegovic should look to join a club that will give him regular opportunities. Sitting on the bench at a big club could be detrimental to his growth. If Chelsea or Manchester United fail to provide him with the necessary assurance, it would be ideal for him to return to his former club in Germany.
The 18-year-old should focus on his development for now. He is a promising player with a bright future, and he will have plenty of opportunities to join a bigger club in future.
Alajbegovic is a left-sided winger, but he is versatile enough to operate on either flank. He has 11 goals and three assists to his name in all competitions this season.
Roberto De Zerbi is looking to improve his attacking unit in the summer, and he has identified Moise Kean as a target.
The 26-year-old has 13 goal contributions this season, and he could prove to be an excellent addition for the North London club. He has played in the Premier League with Everton and knows the league well. He might be able to adapt quickly.
According to a report from Calciomercato.It, the player has a €62 million release clause in his contract, but Fiorentina could sanction his departure if an offer of €50 million is presented in the summer. Tottenham have the resources to pay the asking price for him, and it remains to be seen whether they act on their interest with an official proposal.
Kean has managed to rediscover himself since his return to Italy, and it remains to be seen whether he is prepared to return to England. He had an unsuccessful time with Everton. He has the physicality and technical attributes for English football, and he is at the peak of his career. He is certainly better equipped to succeed in the Premier League this time around.
Furthermore, the opportunity to work with a quality manager like De Zerbi could be attractive for him.
Tottenham need to add more cutting-edge in the final third if they want to do well next season. Dominic Solanke has not been able to find the back of the net consistently. He needs more support in the attack, and the Italian International could share the goal-scoring burden with him.
It has been a disappointing season for Tottenham, and they need to improve the team in multiple areas if they want to bounce back strongly next season.
Crystal Palace have received a major update on their manager situation as it seems Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has rejected their offer to replace Oliver Glasner.
Glasner will be leaving Selhurst Park at the end of the season after announcing earlier in the campaign that he would not be signing a new contract, with his current deal expiring in the summer.
Iraola is another top Premier League manager who’s about to become available, and he’s been one of the names linked with the vacancy at Palace.
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However, Sky Sports now report that the Spanish tactician has turned the job down, in what is likely to be a boost for clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United.
Andoni Iraola snubs Crystal Palace for bigger job?
Iraola has become highly regarded during his time at Bournemouth, even if his side have suffered a slight dip in form in more recent games.
It seems likely that the 43-year-old will have plenty of opportunities once he becomes available this summer, having previously been linked with the likes of Liverpool and Man Utd.
LFC, meanwhile, are doing really badly under Arne Slot right now, and that’s put the Dutch tactician under growing pressure ahead of the summer.
For now the word is that the Reds will keep faith in Slot, but if things get any worse between now and May it’s easy to imagine them being tempted to swoop for Iraola instead.
Glasner, meanwhile, has also been linked as an option for the Old Trafford job.
The talented 24-year-old has nine goals and seven assists in all competitions so far this season, and looks like he’s surely going to earn himself a big move sooner or later.
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Akliouche has been with Monaco since joining their academy in 2017, playing for their B team before notching up over 130 appearances for their senior side.
According to TEAMtalk, he’s now being eyed up by both Man United and Liverpool this summer after both clubs had scouts monitoring his performances.
Maghnes Akliouche to Liverpool or Manchester United?
We have also seen Akliouche linked with Liverpool in the last few days, with Fichajes claiming the Reds are looking at him as one of their potential options to replace Mohamed Salah.
Still, it seems the Red Devils are also keen on the France international, who could be a useful addition for either club due to his ability to play a variety of roles.
WhoScored note that Akliouche has played as a central attacking midfielder, on the right flank, and even as a striker so far this season.
That could be useful for MUFC as there could soon be the need to replace the ageing Bruno Fernandes, who is approaching the final year of his contract.
Liverpool will also surely hope to be in the mix for Akliouche, not only because of Salah’s imminent exit, but with Cody Gakpo and Federico Chiesa both being fairly underwhelming with their recent performances.
That’s according to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, which states that Man Utd now look prepared to make a big offer for Gueye by paying the €45m required to get him out of Villarreal.
The Senegal international looks like he could be a good fit for United to replace Casemiro as he nears the end of his contract, and he’d be a lot cheaper than some of the club’s other targets in that position.
Pape Gueye to return to the Premier League?
Gueye has shone in La Liga and doesn’t have any experience of playing in the Premier League, despite briefly being a Watford player.
In a bizarre saga back in 2020, Gueye agreed to join Watford on a free transfer, though he never actually kicked a ball for the club.
As reported by the Daily Mirror at the time, Gueye was sold to Marseille just 17 hours after becoming a Watford player as he immediately changed his mind about his move to Vicarage Road, claiming he’d been badly advised.
Pape Gueye to Manchester United transfer could accelerate
Fichajes now suggests MUFC are really keen on Gueye, and a deal for the 27-year-old could accelerate in the coming weeks.
Now we know the Gunners’ record from those four matches – two wins, against Everton and Leverkusen, followed by two defeats to City and Southampton.
So, the Carabao Cup and FA Cup are gone now, but Arsenal actually extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table by beating Everton while Manchester City could only draw at West Ham.
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What next for Arsenal?
7th April – Sporting Lisbon vs Arsenal
While it may only be the first or two legs, so unlikely to be decisive, if Arsenal play as badly as they have in their last two games then it will surely be another defeat. Losing by a single goal wouldn’t be the end of the tie, but Arsenal on current form probably wouldn’t have it in them to come back from a two-goal deficit, and this is a quality Sporting side who shouldn’t be taken for granted.
11th April – Arsenal vs Bournemouth
Arsenal’s first league fixture since the win over Everton, and it looks on paper like a fairly generous one. Even if this Bournemouth side have looked very decent at times this season, they’re currently without a win in their last five games and down in 13th in the table. If Arsenal can’t pick up three points at home in this context then that doesn’t bode at all well for them holding on to their current lead at the top of the table.
15th April – Arsenal vs Sporting Lisbon
After this game, Arsenal will either be out of a third competition in the space of just a few weeks and facing a full-blown crisis, or they’ll be heading for the Champions League semi-finals and keeping their double hopes alive. Given the fixture coming up after this one, they’ll want to avoid extra time and avoid feeling like their entire season rests on how they do in the league.
19th April – Manchester City vs Arsenal
The big one. Arsenal were really poor in the Carabao Cup final defeat, and it’s unclear at this stage how that game will affect this one. Before their recent meeting at Wembley, Mikel Arteta boasted a good recent record against Pep Guardiola, albeit not so much at the Etihad Stadium. So, will Arteta learn lessons from that cup final defeat and coax a response from his players, or will that result wreck the team’s confidence and lead to another damaging result?
Arsenal’s season can still be a success
It’s been nervy for Arsenal at times, and the football hasn’t always been pretty, but this is a team that knows how to grind out results, and they could still scrap their way to a successful season.
You’d imagine that once they finally get their hands on a big trophy like the Premier League or the Champions League, there’ll be a new-found confidence flowing at the Emirates Stadium, but for now they just need to do whatever it takes to get points on the board.
And, let’s be clear about this, because there’s been a lot of nonsense of this nature written on social media – even if Arsenal only manage to win the Premier League title this season, that’s still a huge success.
Arsenal were never realistically in the race for a quadruple, which even Pep’s best Man City teams never managed. To measure any success the club has against a fantasy outcome like that is absurd, and the reality will be a first title in 22 years against a City side with far more in the way of resources, and an expensively-assembled Liverpool side everyone was expecting to stroll to the defence of their title.
What do you expect from Arsenal in their next four games and do you still see this as a potentially great season for the club? Let us know in the comments!
Ibrahima Konate is reportedly now expected to stay at Liverpool, with a new contract increasingly considered more likely than a summer exit.
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The France international is coming towards the end of his current deal, making him a free agent this summer, which has led to plenty of speculation over his future in recent months.
However, it now looks like things are heading in a more positive direction, according to L’Equipe, who report that Konate has never been closer to staying at LFC than he looks now.
Ibrahima Konate could be staying at Liverpool after all
With Virgil van Dijk looking past his best at times this season, it’s surely vital for Liverpool to keep Konate as a key figure in their defence.
If the 26-year-old were to leave this summer, it would likely mean the Reds would have to enter the market for two new central defenders.
There are increasingly positive noises about Konate’s future now, though, with the Athletic also reporting that an Anfield stay could be the most likely outcome now.
What Fabrizio Romano told us about Ibrahima Konate
“There are discussions ongoing with the French defender. At the moment there’s still nothing done or agreed, but the conversations are still underway.”
He added: “Let’s see if they can find a financial agreement … The player is open to continuing at Liverpool, but obviously it’s an important contract for his career.”
Romano also mentioned that Real Madrid had cooled their interest in Konate.
Arsenal have been linked with Yan Diomande and my understanding is that they’d have the edge over Liverpool in the race for his signature.
Having reached out to a number of sources close to the situation, I can reveal that Champions League football is considered a must for Diomande when it comes to deciding his future.
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The Ivory Coast international is yet to decide on his future, and he could even sign a new deal with Leipzig, as they remain in contention for Champions League qualification.
Liverpool, by contrast, currently face an uphill battle to get into Europe’s top club competition next season, so could fall behind in the race for Diomande.
Arsenal register interest in Yan Diomande
Liverpool have been strongly linked with Diomande for some time now, but I’m now also aware that the Gunners have registered an interest.
“Arsenal have reached out to those around Diomande to be kept informed over his future,” one source said. “That doesn’t mean a bid or an offer is imminent or definitely going to happen, but it’s a position they’re looking to strengthen and he’s appreciated by their recruitment team.”
“Diomande is Liverpool’s preferred Salah replacement, but the reality is that they’ll struggle to get him without Champions League football, and there is a huge amount of interest from all over Europe, with Arsenal very much in the race,” another source added.
Yan Diomande transfer looks ideal to add spark to stale Arsenal attack
Arsenal have had a strange season as they sit top of the Premier League table without really looking that convincing with their performances, particularly in attack.
Mikel Arteta’s side often get results through a strong defensive set-up and a threat from set-pieces, but someone like Diomande could help turn them into much more of a threat in attack.
The talented 19-year-old has an impressive return of 11 goals and six assists this season, and that could make him an upgrade on the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.
Yan Diomande
Games
Goals
Assists
RB Leipzig 2025/26
29
11
6
Arsenal fans will hope there will be more emphasis on creativity and flair next season, with Arteta’s tactics this season not really in keeping with the club’s traditions.
AFC were always great entertainers under Arsene Wenger and even if some tactical tweaking has been useful to improve results, there have also been times this season when it looks like it’s cost the team.
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Kofane has impressed in Leverkusen’s first-team this season, and it seems Arsenal are now expected to step up their interest in him, and Falk believes they’re the favourites over Bayern Munich for the moment.
Elsewhere in the report it also states: “Bayern Munich have also been linked with a move for the highly rated youngster, although they may prioritise alternative options.”
Christian Kofane transfer eyed by Arsenal and others
See below for a timeline of recent Kofane transfer stories as speculation over the 19-year-old’s future has grown ahead of the summer…
18th March – Arsenal, Chelsea, and Newcastle are linked with an interest in Kofane by Sports Boom.
1st April – Arsenal described as ‘monitoring’ Kofane, while Real Madrid are also mentioned by Florian Plettenberg.
It certainly sounds like the Gunners’ interest is the strongest for the moment, but Kofane is clearly an exciting talent who’s going to be on the radar of a lot of top clubs.
Arsenal would surely benefit from bringing in a top young attacking player this summer after some issues at that end of the pitch this season.
Although Mikel Arteta’s side sit top of the Premier League table, they’ve recently been beaten by Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final and knocked out of the FA Cup by Southampton.
Players like Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus don’t look the same after repeated injury problems, so bringing in Kofane could be ideal to give Arteta a better alternative to Viktor Gyokeres.
Manchester United are reportedly accelerating talks over new contracts for key first-team duo Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire.
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That’s according to Fabrizio Romano on his latest YouTube post, with the Italian journalist confirming the pair will sign “soon”.
It seems Man Utd’s aim is to finalise these deals before the start of the 2026 World Cup, so that could be some important business completed by the club by the end of this season.
Fabrizio Romano provides Manchester United contract update
“Let me start by mentioning that Manchester United with Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo returning from the national team are now prepared to accelerate and formally close both new contracts for the players before the World Cup.
“So this is the mission before the end of the season – sign everything with Kobbie Mainoo 2031 and with Harry Maguire to extend the contract for one more season, 2027 plus option 2028 club option.
“So the negotiation is already very advanced with Kobbie Mainoo is almost done, with Maguire who will sign soon and so Man United plan to announce everything before the end of the season.
“This is the club’s wish now working with the lawyers of the players with the camp of the players to sort everything but advancing very well for both Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire to be important parts of Manchester United project, not just this season but also for the future.”
How Mainoo and Maguire revived their Man United careers
This is positive news for United fans, and it’s an impressive achievement for both Mainoo and Maguire after they’d previously fallen out of favour.
Mainoo was barely playing for MUFC earlier this season while Ruben Amorim was in charge, but he’s shone since returning to the team under interim manager Michael Carrick.
Maguire, meanwhile, was widely seen as a flop at Old Trafford a couple of years ago, but he’s remained professional and worked hard to re-establish himself as a first-team regular.
Keeping both players on new deals looks like important business for United to help their preparations for next season and beyond.
Chelsea are reportedly in control over Valentin Barco’s future as he looks ready to complete a transfer to Stamford Bridge this summer.
The talented young Argentine is said to have given his green light to joining the Blues from Strasbourg, who are under the same ownership.
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It looks like this is all heading in a positive direction for Chelsea, with Fabrizio Romano reporting on the saga on his YouTube channel.
We’ve also previously reported on Chelsea’s interest in Barco, with the west London giants competing with the likes of Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid for the 21-year-old’s signature.
Fabrizio Romano on Valentin Barco to Chelsea transfer
“Chelsea have total control on the Barco situation,” Romano said.
“Same ownership as Chelsea, but Valentin Barco is a player that Chelsea already have in their list for season 26-27.
“So for this summer, what I can tell you is that Valentin Barco together with his agents already gave his green light on leaving eventually Strasburg in the summer transfer window and joining Chelsea.
“Barco is okay with that. Barco is ready to make his move to Chelsea. Now obviously club to club is the same ownership, so it’s not going to be any issue.
“It’s still not done sealed, but Chelsea intention is to control the Barco situation and to consider Valentin Barco as one of the first signings for a season 26-27.”
Barco has mostly played as a defensive midfielder for Strasbourg, and is a player that manager Liam Rosenior will know well.
He can also operate as a full-back if required, so that’s surely someone who’ll be useful for CFC over the course of a long and challenging season.
Valentin Barco
TOTAL SCORE: 17/25
Transfer fee
****
Performance
***
Achievements
**
Career phase
****
Squad need
****
For that reason, as well as his likely low asking price due to Chelsea’s connections with Strasbourg, we’ve scored this a high-medium 17/25 with our Transfer Fit rating system – click here to read more about how these are calculated.
Chelsea were notably close to signing Jules Kounde during his time at Sevilla back in 2021, only for him to join Barcelona instead.
However, the Blues are now on alert for Kounde again as it looks like he could be made available for the right price this summer, as first reported here for the Daily Briefing.
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My understanding is that Chelsea are now ready to try an “aggressive” push for the France international’s signature, though other clubs could also get involved.
Jules Kounde to add more experience to Chelsea defence?
Despite Chelsea’s current owners prioritising investing in elite young players, there is some degree of openness to adding a bit more experience to their squad this summer.
I’ve previously mentioned that Chelsea view Harry Maguire as an option in that position as he nears the end of his contract, and Kounde is another who could come in and offer something that the west Londoners have sorely missed since Thiago Silva’s departure.
“Chelsea still have faith in their transfer policy and are expected to stick with it,” one source in the industry told me. “But they’re open to adding more experience if the opportunity arises, and Kounde is someone they’ve been interested in for a long time. They’re aware he could leave Barcelona this summer and are preparing an aggressive approach to lure him to Stamford Bridge.”
Jules Kounde transfer won’t come cheap
This deal is far from straightforward, however, as some sources I’ve spoken to have also indicated that Kounde himself is not desperate to leave Barca.
Their asking price for the 27-year-old could also be pretty high, with his valuation in the region of £65-70m.
That could be an important sale for Barcelona to help them with their current financial issues, but Chelsea and other clubs would likely look to strike a deal for well below that, or else explore options elsewhere.
Kounde is not getting any younger, so probably doesn’t have much resale value at this stage in his career, while his salary is also expected to be high, perhaps around €18m a year.
There are a lot of moving parts here, but Chelsea’s strong interest and Barcelona’s desire to sell makes this an intriguing saga to keep an eye on this summer.
Arsenal fans may be interested to hear that Fabrizio Romano rates the chances of Castello Lukeba leaving RB Leipzig at around 80-90% likely this summer.
The talented 23-year-old has impressed in his time in the Bundesliga and it makes sense that he’s now seen as someone Leipzig could cash in on.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano says it now looks very likely that Lukeba will be moving on this summer, though he did not name a specific club the Frenchman could be joining.
A recent report from L’Equipe stated that Arsenal were in initial discussions over signing Lukeba, so that could be one to watch out for in the weeks and months ahead.
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Fabrizio Romano on Castello Lukeba transfer
“There is a lot of interest in Castello Lukeba,” Romano said.
“The release clause is around €80m but the player can leave for less than this in this summer’s transfer window. So there are several clubs following the situation.
“For Lukeba it’s close to 80-90% the possibility to see him leaving already in this 2026 summer transfer window. There will be movement for the player for sure.”
Do Arsenal need Castello Lukeba?
Lukeba is a fine player at a good phase of his career, and it seems like he wouldn’t cost a fortune.
However, do Arsenal really need another centre-back? It’s perhaps hard to see Lukeba getting much playing time due to the presence of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, while Cristhian Mosquera is a solid backup and Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber can also fill in in that position.
Luka Vuskovic says he will be back at Tottenham this summer after his successful loan spell with Bundesliga side Hamburg this season.
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The 19-year-old has been hugely impressive during his loan spell in Germany and it’s led to interest from a host of top clubs.
We recently reported on Chelsea being keen on Vuskovic, though the deal could be problematic due to his market valuation of around £86m.
Liverpool have also been linked with the Croatian wonderkid by Sport Bild, and it certainly seems like it could be tricky for Spurs to keep hold of such an elite prospect, especially if they get relegated.
Luka Vuskovic planning Tottenham return
Still, one positive for now is that Vuskovic himself has hinted he’ll be coming back to Tottenham to be part of their squad next season.
It may be that the teenager doesn’t want to fuel speculation too much and is simply commenting on the fact that his current loan will be coming to an end, but it also perhaps at least suggests some openness to being involved with this Spurs team.
“In football, you never know,” Vuskovic said, as quoted by the Evening Standard.
“It could happen next year, or in ten years. I don’t want to promise anyone anything.
“After this season, I’ll be a Tottenham player again. I have a contract there until 2030.”
Luka Vuskovic return could be a big boost for Spurs
After such a terrible season at THFC, it would certainly be a major boost if they could welcome such a top young defender into their ranks for the next campaign.
For now, new manager Roberto De Zerbi urgently needs to focus on keeping Spurs up in their final few fixtures, but if they do that then they should be capable of rebuilding and perhaps challenging for the top four again.
Vuskovic could be a key part of that, but he’d also surely be tempted by an opportunity like Chelsea, with the Blues building around young players and looking like being able to offer some form of European football next season.
See below for details as Romano provides this update, while Florian Plettenberg has recently stated that Diomande’s current asking price is around €100m…
? RB Leipzig are discussing new deal with Yan Diomandé new agents to try keep him at the club for one more season.
Increased salary, longer contract… and a release clause being considered. ?
Diomandé will decide also based on bids this summer.
Diomande faces an important summer as he’ll no doubt be tempted to jump at the chance to join a big club like Liverpool.
The Reds need a long-term replacement for departing club legend Mohamed Salah, so this could be a signing that suits everyone.
At the same time, however, Diomande needs to be careful not to rush into a big move too soon, and it could be that staying at Leipzig for a bit longer would be the best thing for his development.
Leipzig have often sold their star players for big money, so one imagines Diomande won’t be there for the long term, but one more season could be better for him to gain a bit more experience before the challenge of replacing someone like Salah at Liverpool.
Yan Diomande
Games
Goals
Assists
RB Leipzig 2025/26
29
11
6
It would be exciting to see Diomande in the Premier League at some point, but if Liverpool don’t get him this summer then it will surely only become a more competitive race for his signature in future.
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The Brazil international is coming towards the final year of his contract at the Bernabeu, leading to intermediaries sounding out potential suitors.
That’s according to TEAMtalk, who name Liverpool, Arsenal, Man Utd, Man City, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich as the teams approached.
The report suggests there has been a major development in Vinicius’ contract talks with Real Madrid as there’s no agreement reached so far, and no sign of the Spanish giants improving their offer.
Vinicius Junior exploring transfer options
While TEAMtalk also state that Vinicius has not necessarily indicated that he wants to leave Real Madrid, it seems intermediaries are exploring other options for him.
Los Blancos also won’t want to lose the 25-year-old on a free transfer next summer, so that could mean they’ll be open to cashing in on him now if a big enough offer comes in.
It remains to be seen if the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool would sign Vinicius due to his high wage demands, though he is undoubtedly up there with the best players in world football.
Should Arsenal and Liverpool try signing Vinicius Junior?
Vinicius has 17 goals and nine assists in all competitions so far this season, once again showing that he’s an elite attacking talent who can influence big games.
Arsenal certainly need someone like that on their left-hand side after the inconsistent performances of players like Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard in that department.
Onana has shone at Villa Park and could be a good option for Man Utd, with Villa’s ongoing financial issues perhaps meaning they’ll have to sell the Belgium international.
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Football Insider have previously reported on United eyeing Onana and they have now quoted former Premier League scout Mick Brown as providing further insight into the situation.
Amadou Onana could leave Aston Villa
Villa have been tipped to be under pressure to accept “huge” bids for Onana, so that could be a boost for MUFC as they look for new signings in the middle of the park.
It remains to be seen if the 24-year-old will be one of United’s priorities in that position, but Brown also noted that the player himself has previously hinted he could look for a big move to further his career.
“They (Villa) don’t have the room to spend money unless they sell players, we’re told, so then of course the talk is about which players could leave,” Brown told Football Insider.
“Onana is one who I wouldn’t be surprised to see go. If a huge offer came in for him from a top club, Villa might see him as somebody they can cash in on.
“He hinted at it before in an interview, suggested he could leave for a bigger club, so if that opportunity comes up now then it could happen.
“Unai Emery, ideally, wouldn’t be losing any of his best players because he wants to build on the success they’ve had, but it’s difficult with their finances.”
Onana has been a solid performer for Villa, and previously also impressed during his time at Everton.
Proven in the Premier League, and still not at the peak years of his career, this seems like a pretty sensible signing for United, though they could probably do better given his likely cost…
The talented 22-year-old has impressed during his time in the Saudi Pro League, with a record of 44 goals in 69 games.
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Leonardo’s performances have seemingly caught the eye of clubs like Liverpool and Tottenham, according to a recent report from Sports Boom, and it could be that there’ll be a chance for a swap deal.
According to Give Me Sport, this could be a deal that satisfies all parties, as Salah could finally get his long-mooted move to Saudi Arabia by joining Al Hilal, with Leonardo moving in the opposite direction.
One issue with Mohamed Salah swap transfer talk…
It is worth noting, however, that the expectation for the moment is that Salah will leave Liverpool on a free transfer this summer.
Although the Egypt international has another year left on his contract, Ben Jacobs previously reported that an agreement was in place for him to leave on a free a year before that deal comes to an end…
? Mo Salah will leave Liverpool on a free transfer. Parties came to an agreement over a termination in a similar manner to the exit the club negotiated with Jurgen Klopp when he decided to leave #LFC. pic.twitter.com/sVyChqoW4Y
This means LFC can’t use Salah in a swap deal, as he’ll no longer be their player this summer, unless of course the Reds go back on this agreement.
Still, perhaps a more informal kind of deal could be agreed, with Salah heading to Al Hilal and Liverpool using that as leverage in any talks over Leonardo.
Is Marcos Leonardo good enough for Liverpool?
Leonardo looks like an impressive young player, but it’s also worth noting that his experience in the Saudi Pro League alone won’t prepare him for Premier League football.
The Brazilian’s only previous experience in Europe was with Benfica, and he only scored 8 goals in 24 games there, so Arne Slot will perhaps be looking for some more proven when it comes to replacing a legendary figure like Salah.
Marcos Leonardo
TOTAL SCORE: 12/25
Transfer fee
**
Performance
**
Achievements
*
Career phase
****
Squad need
***
We’ve given Leonardo a low-ish medium score with our Transfer Fit rating system, as he meets certain criteria, but not others.
His recent form is good, but with the caveat that it’s only in the Saudi Pro League, while his career achievements aren’t much to write home about at this stage.
Still, Liverpool need attacking players and he probably wouldn’t cost a fortune, and is at an age where he can improve a lot in the next few years.
Aston Villa have moved into pole position to secure the signature of rising Moroccan star Yanis Benchaouch, submitting a concrete offer for the AS Monaco goalkeeper ahead of the summer transfer window.
As first reported by AfricaFoot, the Midlands club has transitioned from mere interest to decisive action.
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Villa have reportedly tabled a five-year contract featuring a net annual salary of €850,000.
In a move designed to smooth over negotiations with Monaco, where Benchaouch has officially declined a professional contract, Villa has included a significant future sell-on clause to avoid a lengthy dispute over training compensation.
Aston Villa leading the race but face stiff competition
While Unai Emery’s side is leading the European charge, they face a massive financial threat from Qatar.
Al Gharafa has entered the fray with a staggering package worth $1.2 million per year, supplemented by an annual signing bonus of $300,000.
The race for the 19-year-old does not end there. The report reveals that Benchaouch is currently on the “wish list” of ten different clubs.
Premier League rivals Bournemouth remain interested after a failed winter bid, while Serie A giants Inter Milan, Modena, and Monza are also monitoring the situation. Additional interest is stemming from the Eredivisie, the Belgian Pro League, and Spain’s La Liga.
Standing as one of the most highly-rated young goalkeepers in French football, Benchaouch has enjoyed a meteoric rise through the ranks at AS Monaco.
Despite his youth, he has been a consistent presence for Monaco’s U19 and “Groupe Élite” sides, earning a reputation for his exceptional reflexes and modern distribution.
Born in France but representing Morocco internationally, Benchaouch has already earned caps for the Moroccan U20 side.
His refusal to sign a professional deal in the Principality has made him one of the most sought-after free talents in Europe, as FIFA regulations currently allow him to sign a pre-contract with any club outside of France.
With Aston Villa currently competing at the top end of the Premier League, the chances of signing for them is much more compared to the rest.
Inter Milan are preparing to accelerate their pursuit of Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, with the Italian international emerging as their primary target to become the club’s long-term number one.
The Nerazzurri are actively searching for a successor to veteran goalkeeper Yann Sommer, who, at 37, is expected to transition into a backup role ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
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According to reports from CalcioMercato.it, Inter sporting director Piero Ausilio has been closely monitoring Vicario and is now ready to push ahead of rival clubs to secure his signature.
Vicario is currently valued between €15 million and €20 million (£12.5m–£17m), a fee Inter view as a cost-effective deal for a goalkeeper who has proven himself in the Premier League since joining Spurs from Empoli in 2023.
Juventus join Inter Milan in race for Guglielmo Vicario
Inter are not alone in their interest, with Juventus also identifying Vicario as a key target this summer.
The Turin giants are looking to strengthen competition for Michele Di Gregorio, and reports indicate that initial discussions have already taken place with Vicario’s representatives.
With Tottenham currently battling near the relegation zone, the 29-year-old is believed to be open to a return to Serie A, particularly with a view to improving his chances of cementing a place in the Italian national team.
Tottenham open to Vicario sale amid De Zerbi plans
The Italian coach is expected to implement a system that prioritises playing out from the back, placing increased importance on a goalkeeper’s distribution.
While Vicario has impressed as a shot-stopper, his reported passing accuracy of 69% may raise concerns over his suitability for De Zerbi’s style.
As a result, Spurs are monitoring alternative options, including Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen and Manchester City’s James Trafford.
Selling Vicario could provide Tottenham with the financial flexibility needed to recruit a goalkeeper better suited to De Zerbi’s high-risk, build-up-focused approach.
Tottenham could be set to receive a significant financial windfall this summer, thanks to a smart decision made by then Chairman Daniel Levy when offloading striker Troy Parrott in 2024.
The Republic of Ireland international, who struggled to break into the first team at N17, was sold to Dutch side AZ Alkmaar for £6.7 million in July 2024.
However, Spurs inserted a 20% sell-on clause into the deal, a move that looks increasingly brilliant as Parrott’s market value continues to increase.
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Daniel Farke’s side is among the suitors monitoring the 24-year-old, with a potential transfer fee now estimated at £25 million.
Should a deal in that price bracket be finalised, Tottenham would be entitled to roughly £5 million.
This represents a significant return on a player who made only four senior appearances for the club.
While Leeds are among the frontrunners, other clubs, including AC Milan, Fulham, and Wolfsburg, are also said to be keeping tabs on the prolific forward, which could drive the price even higher.
Troy Parrott has been impressive since leaving Spurs
Parrott’s departure from North London appears to have been the catalyst for his transformation into one of Europe’s most clinical young strikers.
After a solid first year in the Netherlands where he netted 20 goals, the Dublin-born forward has taken his game to another level in the 2025/26 campaign.
This season he has scored 28 goals and assisted another 10 in 42 games across all competitions.
Parrott’s form has not been limited to club football; his five goals for Ireland in 2025, including a stunning hat-trick against Hungary, were instrumental in firing his nation into the 2026 World Cup play-offs.
At 24, Parrott finally looks ready for the Premier League stage.
Newcastle United defender Matt Targett has confirmed that his time at St James’ Park has come to an end, admitting that his “chapter at the club is closed” as he focuses on a permanent future elsewhere.
The 30-year-old left-back, who is currently flourishing on a season-long loan at promotion-chasing Middlesbrough, spoke candidly about his situation following a string of impressive performances in the Championship.
After two injury-plagued years on Tyneside, Targett has successfully revitalised his career at the Riverside Stadium.
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Matt Targett says he is done at Newcastle
Speaking to Sky Sports, Targett revealed that a conversation with Magpies boss Eddie Howe in January paved the way for his permanent departure.
“I had a chat with Eddie in January and he was so understanding about my situation, so I thank him for that. He knew staying at Middlesbrough was beneficial for me and that I wanted to keep playing. The future? I’m not sure to be honest. I believe I’m done at Newcastle, so that chapter is closed.”
Targett’s primary goal is now securing a permanent move to Boro, provided they navigate the upcoming play-offs successfully.
“Hopefully we get promoted here and there will be a contract for me… but if not, I’ve played as much as I can this season so I’ll assess my options.”
? ? Matt Targett on Newcastle/Middlesbrough:
?? “It was really important to me that I could come here (Middlesbrough) and prove I can play a full season with no injuries.
?? “I had a chat with Eddie (Howe) in January and he was so understanding about my situation, so I… pic.twitter.com/97FNVV79L3
Targett was an key player for the club during the 2021/22 season, joining initially on loan from Aston Villa and providing the defensive stability that helped the club avoid relegation.
His move was made permanent for £15 million that summer, with many viewing him as a cornerstone of the new era.
However, the subsequent rise of Dan Burn and the arrival of Lewis Hall, coupled with a series of debilitating hamstring and heel injuries, saw him fall down the pecking order.
Between 2023 and 2025, Targett managed just a handful of Premier League appearances, leading to his eventual loan exit.
With Newcastle now focused on younger, high-ceiling defensive targets for their 2026/27 campaign, Targett’s departure marks the end of a reliable, if injury-stalled, period for the veteran full-back.
Tottenham players have returned from their first training session under Roberto De Zerbi with “rave reviews,” sparking a much-needed wave of optimism at a club currently fighting for its Premier League survival.
According to football.london, the impact was immediate, with the players appearing to buy into De Zerbi’s high-intensity methods from the opening minute.
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Tottenham players left impressed with Roberto De Zerbi
As per the report from Alasdair Gold, the atmosphere at the North London club has shifted overnight.
One senior player reportedly described the session as “outstanding” to close friends and others provided glowing feedback regarding the ‘level of the work’.
Footage released by the club also showed the former Brighton boss working closely with young talents like Lucas Bergvall, Mathys Tel, who returned to training following an injury, and Archie Gray.
De Zerbi’s top priority is to keep Tottenham up
Despite the positive “vibes” from the training ground, the reality of Tottenham’s situation remains grim.
Spurs are currently 17th in the Premier League, sitting just one point above West Ham in the final relegation spot with only seven games remaining.
Position
Team
Games Played
Points
GD
15
Leeds United
31
33
-11
16
Nottingham Forest
31
32
-12
17
Tottenham
31
30
-10
18
West Ham
31
29
-21
Premier League relegation battle
De Zerbi has exactly one week to embed his philosophy before his first official test: a daunting trip to Sunderland on April 12.
With the club’s top-flight status on the line, the board is banking on this “outstanding” first impression translating into immediate results to avoid a historic drop to the Championship.
Southampton’s social media team has added salt to the wounds of the Arsenal faithful, brutally trolling a Gunners supporter on X following the Saints’ shock 2-1 FA Cup victory at St Mary’s on Saturday.
The exchange went viral minutes after the final whistle, as the clinical Championship side secured their place in the semi-finals, effectively ending Arsenal’s hopes of a domestic cup trophy this season.
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Southampton admin brutally trolls Arsenal fan
The interaction began when a frustrated Arsenal supporter replied to Southampton’s official full-time announcement.
The fan dismissed the Saints’ hard-fought victory, secured by a late 85th-minute winner from Shea Charles, simply as a “Fluke Win.”
The Southampton admin was quick to fire back, delivering a reference to the recent hype surrounding Mikel Arteta’s side, with many thinking they could win the quadruple.
The official account replied: “Enjoy your quadruple, pal,” accompanied by a waving emoji.
The post immediately racked up tens of thousands of likes, with rival fans joining in to mock the North London club’s rapid exit from two major competitions in just a fortnight.
For Arsenal, this reflects a grim reality on the pitch. Having already lost the League Cup final to Manchester City before the international break, the Gunners have now lost their second trophy opportunity in as many weeks.
The late defensive lapse following Gabriel Magalhaes’ injury have raised familiar questions about the squad’s mental fortitude.
With the FA Cup and League Cup now off the table, the pressure is on Arteta to deliver at least one trophy.
Mikel Arteta really needs to deliver silverware
While the “quadruple” was always an ambitious dream, the sudden collapse in domestic cups has left Arsenal with only two avenues for success: the Premier League and the Champions League.
Arteta, who has transformed the club into title contenders, now faces a defining month.
With a Champions League quarter-final against Sporting CP on Tuesday, the Spaniard knows that a “trophyless” season would be viewed as a failure.
As the Saints’ admin was keen to point out, the talk of multiple trophies is over; now, Arsenal must prove they can secure at least one to justify their “elite” status.
That said, Arteta can still end the season with not just one but two trophies. The Gunners have a perfect record in the Champions League and are expected to reach the finals of the competition this season.
In the Premier League, they enjoy a nine point lead over Manchester City and while they have played a game more than their title rivals, it is very unlikely for Arteta to bottle a potential 6 point lead with seven games to play.
The atmosphere at Liverpool has reached a toxic breaking point following a humiliating 4-0 FA Cup quarter-final defeat to Manchester City, with footage now going viral showing traveling supporters singing the famous Xabi Alonso chant as they streamed out of the Etihad Stadium.
The defeat, which marked a staggering 15th loss of the season for manager Arne Slot, appears to have been the final straw for a fanbase that has grown increasingly disillusioned since the turn of the year.
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Liverpool supporters send the club hierarchy a clear message
As the goals flew in from a rampant City side, the away end began to empty well before the final whistle.
Footage shows the travelling fans leaving the stadium, as they sent an indirect message to the Liverpool hierarchy, singing the famous Xabi Alonso chant in full voice.
Alonso has been strongly linked with a dream return to Anfield after his success with Bayer Leverkusen.
With Liverpool’s title defence in tatters and chances of a domestic trophy now gone, the fans are no longer hiding their discontent.
The vocal support for Alonso, coupled with fans calling for the dismissal of Slot, suggests that the grace period afforded to Slot following last season’s Premier League success has officially expired.
The scenes at the Etihad highlight a worrying disconnect that is beginning to tear at the fabric of the club.
Beyond the result, the behavior of the players and the reaction of the supporters signal a growing internal crisis.
Szoboszlai altercation: At full-time, Dominik Szoboszlai was involved in a heated standoff with fans. The midfielder appeared to shrug his shoulders and wave his arms dismissively toward the away, requiring teammate Federico Chiesa to physically lead him away.
Early exits: Many fans opted to leave with 20 minutes remaining, an almost unheard-of sight for a club defined by its “Never Walk Alone” values.
Managerial uncertainty: With a crucial Champions League clash against PSG looming on Wednesday, Slot is facing a mutiny.
The lack of fight shown against City has led many to believe the players have stopped playing for the manager.
For Liverpool, the “defining month” of April has started in catastrophic fashion. If the board does not act soon to bridge the gap between the dugout and the Kop, the final weeks of the season could witness an unprecedented collapse.
Manchester United are open to selling Manuel Ugarte this summer, with the midfielder pushing for a move away after struggling to establish himself under the current system.
The 24-year-old, who joined from PSG in 2024 on a deal running until 2029, has endured a frustrating campaign at Old Trafford.
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Sources have informed CaughtOffside that Ugarte’s desire to leave is well known internally.
The Uruguay international had explored the possibility of a loan exit during the January window, but that move was blocked by the club.
However, the situation has evolved, and a permanent departure is now increasingly likely.
Plenty of suitors for Manuel Ugarte as Manchester United set asking price
CaughtOffside sources understand that Juventus are currently leading the race to sign Ugarte, with their interest dating back to his time at Sporting CP.
Sporting director Marco Ottolini has personally tracked the midfielder in recent international fixtures, as the Italian giants step up their plans ahead of the summer window.
A move to Serie A is viewed as a strong possibility, although Juventus’ ability to complete a deal will depend on their Champions League qualification.
Manchester United are believed to value Ugarte at around €40 million, despite his current estimated market value sitting closer to €30 million. His salary, understood to be around €4 million net per year, is not expected to be a stumbling block for interested clubs.
Galatasaray, Newcastle and Aston Villa also monitoring Ugarte situation
Galatasaray have also re-entered the race for Ugarte and are prepared to offer him a prominent role as part of their ambitious Champions League project.
The Turkish giants are willing to guarantee regular playing time, something the midfielder has lacked in Manchester, and that could prove decisive in his final decision.
Elsewhere, Newcastle United and Aston Villa are both monitoring the situation, while Ajax and Sunderland have also been linked. However, those latter options are currently considered less likely.
With multiple clubs circling and Manchester United open to doing business, Ugarte is emerging as one of the key midfield names to watch ahead of what is shaping up to be a busy summer transfer window.
Mikel Arteta has provided a concerning injury update on Gabriel Magalhaes, admitting that the central defender’s forced substitution during Arsenal’s shock FA Cup exit is “never good news.”
The Brazilian mainstay was withdrawn midway through the second half of the Gunners’ 2-1 defeat to Southampton at St Mary’s on Saturday.
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Gabriel appeared to be in significant discomfort, clutching his right leg before signaling to the bench that he could no longer continue.
Arteta on Gabriel Magalhaes injury
Speaking in his post-match press conference, a visibly frustrated Arteta could not hide his worry regarding the 28-year-old’s condition.
Gabriel had only recently returned to the side after sitting out the international break with a knee issue, making this latest setback particularly alarming for the Premier League leaders.
Arteta said:
“I think he felt something. I don’t know exactly what it is. We’re going to have to assess him, but obviously, when a player is asking to be substituted, it’s never good news.”
The loss of Gabriel comes at a nightmare time for Arsenal. The defender was seen with ice strapped to his knee following the game, and with a Champions League quarter-final first leg against Sporting CP scheduled for Tuesday, the Gunners face the prospect of losing their defensive anchor for the most critical stretch of the season.
Arsenal crash out of second cup in two weeks
The injury served as the final blow on a disastrous afternoon for Arsenal, who have seen their hopes of a historic quadruple evaporate in the space of just fourteen days.
Following their defeat to Manchester City in the League Cup final at Wembley before the international break, the Gunners have now crashed out of another domestic trophy opportunity, leaving the Champions League and the Premier League the only two chances of willing a trophy this season.
Despite taking a second-half lead through Viktor Gyokeres, Arsenal collapsed in the closing stages.
Shea Charles’ 85th-minute winner for the second-tier Saints sent the St Mary’s crowd into a frenzy and left the Premier League leaders reeling.
Having fully dominated the league for much of the season, Arteta’s side now faces a sudden “wobble” that threatens to derail their remaining ambitions in both the league and Europe.
Liverpool are interested in signing Nicolo Barella from Inter Milan at the end of the season.
The 29-year-old midfielder has been outstanding in the Italian League, and he could cost over €60 million. According to a report from Inter Live, Liverpool will look to lower the asking price for the Italian international midfielder by offering a couple of players in exchange. They are prepared to send Federico Chiesa to Inter Milan, and could also send Giovanni Leoni on loan to Inter.
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Can Liverpool convince Inter Milan?
It remains to be seen whether the Italian outfit is prepared to accept such a deal. They could use more quality on the flanks, and Chiesa would be a useful acquisition for them if he manages to rein in his form and confidence. He has not been able to live up to the expectations in the Premier League, and it is no surprise that Liverpool is prepared to let him go.
On the other hand, Leoni has just returned from a serious knee injury. He is a tremendous talent with a bright future, and he needs regular opportunities to blossom into a quality defender. Perhaps a loan move could be ideal for him next season. Inter Milan could use defensive depth, and Leoni would be a superb addition.
He has shown his quality in Italy with Parma, and he impressed on his debut with Liverpool as well.
Meanwhile, Liverpool needs more control and composure in the middle of the park. Barella could prove to be a transformative addition for them. The Italian is at the peak of his career, and he could make a defining impact in the Premier League.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool can lower the €60 million asking price by offering the two Italian players in exchange. Barella has proven himself in Italy, and this could be the right time for him to take on a new challenge and move to England.
Arsenal are interested in signing the Brazilian midfielder Lucca Marques at the end of the season.
According to a report from SportWitness, they could submit a formal offer for the player when the transfer window opens. The 18-year-old is highly rated across Europe and in South America. He could prove to be a quality long-term acquisition for the London club. Arsenal will also face competition from clubs like Borussia Dortmund.
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Arsenal could nurture Lucca Marques into a star
The Gunners have done well to groom young players in the past, and they could play a key role in his development.
Marques could be tempted to join Arsenal in the summer. It would be a huge opportunity for him and a major step up in his career.
Arsenal are looking to build a formidable team for the future, and it is no surprise that they are keen on the Brazilian prodigy. He is a young player with a lot of potential, and he could develop into a quality player for Arsenal with the right guidance.
The talented attacking midfielder is also capable of operating on the flanks. His versatility will be an added bonus. He will add flair, technical ability, agility, and vision in the final third. His close control and unpredictability allow him to operate both centrally and in wide areas.
Arsenal could use a player with his skill set. The 18-year-old might not be ready for the Premier League just yet, but he could develop into a key player for the club.
It will be interesting to see if Arsenal follow up on their interest with an acceptable offer in the coming weeks. They have the financial muscle to get the deal done, and Sao Paulo could be under pressure to cash in if a lucrative proposal is on the table.
New fan footage has captured a distressing scene at the Etihad Stadium, appearing to show Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai involved in a heated altercation with a section of the traveling supporters following the club’s 4-0 FA Cup exit.
The Hungarian international, who has been one of the few players to receive pass marks during a tumultuous season, seemed to reach a breaking point as the Reds’ domestic cup ambitions were ruthlessly extinguished by Manchester City.
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What happened between Liverpool fans and Dominik Szoboszlai at full-time
The footage, which surfaced on social media shortly after the final whistle, shows Szoboszlai approaching the away end as the players went to acknowledge the fans who had stayed until the end.
While most players offered a despondent applause, the 25-year-old appeared to take exception to comments directed at him from the front rows.
The video shows an animated Szoboszlai gesturing toward a group of supporters before being ushered away by teammate Federico Chiesa.
While the exact dialogue remains unclear, it appeared that Szoboszlai was not happy that the fans were not applauding the players’ efforts.
The confrontation is the latest sign of a club in freefall. Liverpool have now suffered 15 defeats across all competitions this season, a staggering regression for the defending Premier League champions.
Szoboszlai has previously admitted that the team is affected by fans leaving Anfield early, but this direct confrontation at the Etihad suggests the pressure of a crumbling season is finally weighing on the dressing room leaders.
As the Reds prepare for a “do-or-die” Champions League clash with PSG on Wednesday, Arne Slot faces the impossible task of mending a fractured team and a furious fanbase simultaneously.
Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler has called out Arne Slot for a perceived lack of leadership following the club’s humiliating 4-0 FA Cup quarter-final exit at the hands of Manchester City.
The defeat at the Etihad, which featured a hat-trick from Erling Haaland and a missed penalty by the departing Mohamed Salah, has pushed the Reds’ season to the brink of collapse.
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Speaking during the post-match coverage, Fowler expressed his deep concern over the mental state of the squad and the manager’s inability to spark a reaction.
Robbie Fowler blames Arne Slot for Liverpool mess
Fowler was blunt in his assessment of the current management, arguing that the responsibility for the team’s current problems lies firmly at the door of the head coach, who he believes has failed to provide the necessary spark during difficult moments.
“Arne Slot has to get the players to be better versions of what they are. You need leaders to drag people through tough times. That’s what you need, but we are not seeing that from the manager.”
The former striker noted that he had “never seen a Liverpool team so devoid of confidence,” especially after starting the game with a positive intent that quickly evaporated after City’s opening goal.
The loss marks Slot’s 15th defeat of the season, a statistic that Fowler suggests is indicative of a wider leadership vacuum within the dressing room and on the touchline.
Liverpool should bring in Steven Gerrard
With the Champions League now the only remaining chance for silverware, and a daunting clash with PSG looming, the calls for a radical change are intensifying.
Former Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart has shared a poignant observation regarding Mohamed Salah during the first half of Liverpool’s devastating 4-0 FA Cup exit at the hands of the Premier League champions.
The Egyptian forward, who recently confirmed he will leave Anfield at the end of the 2025/26 season, endured a difficult afternoon at the Etihad.
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His struggles were compounded in the second half when he saw a penalty saved by James Trafford, but Hart noted that the signs of a “broken” performance were visible long before the final whistle.
Joe Hart says Mohamed Salah looked devastated
Speaking as a pundit on TNT Sports (via BBC Sport), Hart revealed that he was struck by Salah’s uncharacteristic body language as the teams headed for the tunnel at half-time, with Liverpool trailing 2-0.
“We’re so used to seeing Mo Salah being a confident player,” Hart said. “It was difficult watching him today, actually. That first opportunity he had where the block was made was a tell-tale sign. He struggled and he looked low on confidence. We saw him walking in at half-time and he was devastated.”
Mo Salah’s last season at Liverpool
While this season is turning into a nightmare for the Reds, marked by their 15th defeat today, Salah’s struggles this season will do little to tarnish his legendary status.
Since arriving in 2017, the Egyptian King has netted 255 goals and provided 100+ assists, leading the club to two Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy.
Though he appeared a shadow of his former self at the Etihad, missing three major chances and the penalty, his place as the third-highest leading goalscorer in the club’s history is secure.
As Arne Slot’s side shifts focus to a daunting Champions League clash with PSG on Wednesday, supporters will be hoping for one final spark of magic from their departing icon to salvage what remains of a crumbling campaign.
Arne Slot has explained his decision to substitute Joe Gomez during Liverpool’s humiliating 4-0 FA Cup defeat to Manchester City.
The defender was withdrawn in the second half at the Etihad Stadium as the Reds struggled to cope with Erling Haaland, who netted a devastating hat-trick.
The versatile defender was replaced as the Reds struggled to contain a rampant Erling Haaland, who secured a hat-trick at the Etihad Stadium.
With Liverpool’s season effectively hanging by a thread, Slot’s post-match comments shed light on the delicate balancing act he is performing with a squad ravaged by fitness issues.
Arne Slot reveals why he took Joe Gomez out
Speaking to TNT Sports (via BBC Sport) after the final whistle, Slot explained that the decision was entirely tactical and designed to preserve Gomez for the upcoming Champions League quarter-final against Paris Saint-Germain.
“I took Joe Gomez out because he has shown since I am here that it is not always easy to play him for 90 minutes twice,” Slot admitted. “So if we want to use him on Wednesday, it is helpful that I took him out today.”
Slot’s admission highlights a growing concern: he simply cannot rely on his senior defenders to complete a full 180 minutes of high-intensity football within a four-day window.
While the substitution was a “precautionary” measure, it did little to stem the bleeding on a day when Liverpool’s defensive frailties were laid bare.
Liverpool defensive crisis exposed again
The 4-0 thrashing marks the 15th defeat of the season for Slot, a staggering statistic for a side that lifted the Premier League trophy just twelve months ago.
The Reds have now conceded 46 goals in the Premier League alone this term, with their total goals against across all competitions surpassing 60 following today’s exit.
Liverpool have now lost 15 matches across all competitions this season, their most defeats in a single season since 2014/15, when the Reds lost 18 matches under Brendan Rodgers.
Pressure mounts on Arne Slot
With the FA Cup exit confirmed and the Premier League title defence in tatters, the focus now shifts to Europe.
Liverpool face a decisive Champions League showdown against PSG, with Slot under intense scrutiny.
Liverpool’s season hit a shocking new low as Manchester City dismantled them 4-0 at the Etihad, sparking a furious fan backlash and fresh calls for Arne Slot to be sacked immediately.
The FA Cup quarter-final humiliation saw Erling Haaland run riot with a clinical hat-trick, sending Pep Guardiola’s side into the semi-finals for a record eighth consecutive season.
Liverpool fans call for Slot to be sacked
The FA Cup quarter-final, which many viewed as Slot’s last chance to save his debut campaign, turned into a humiliation as Erling Haaland scored a clinical hat-trick to send Pep Guardiola’s side into the semi-finals for a record eighth consecutive season.
The “Arne Out” sentiment, which had been simmering following a 2-1 loss to Brighton before the international break, reached a boiling point before the final whistle even blew in Manchester.
Social media was flooded with demands for the Dutchman’s dismissal, with many fans calling for Steven Gerrard to be given the interim role immediately.
One said: “Let Stevie G see the season out. Can it really be worse than what we are seeing now? And let Xabi take over at season end.
“Stevie G recently said he would be open to an assistant role if asked:
“I would do it for Liverpool Football Club if I was asked and they felt that I was the right man to do it, I’d be up for it, of course.”
Let Stevie G see the season out. Can it really be worse than what we are seeing now? And let Xabi take over at season end.
Stevie G recently said he would be open to an assistant role if asked:
“I would do it for Liverpool Football Club if I was asked and they felt that I was… pic.twitter.com/4m7MdzJDRC
Another said: “Bring Gerrard in just for the team morale at this point. Forget tactics. This team need a lift in confidence & Gerrard will do that. Look fora new manager in the summer. These players don’t believe in slot”
Another furiously stated: “Slot Out… Bald fraud to be blame we go forward..leaving big gaps.. defence is piss poor & no protection… Gravenberch & jones need to sit in front of defenders.. Bald fraud has zero tactics… Rio is left winger…only the bald fraud will play him on the right wing…”
Slot Out… Bald fraud to be blame we go forward..leaving big gaps.. defence is piss poor & no protection… Gravenberch & jones need to sit in front of defenders.. Bald fraud has zero tactics… Rio is left winger…only the bald fraud will play him on the right wing… ??????
Anthony Gordon has been linked with a move away from Newcastle United at the end of the season, and Arsenal are hoping to secure his signature.
According to football transfers, Arsenal are planning to submit an offer for the England international in the summer. Newcastle do not want to sell the player, but Mikel Arteta is determined to secure his signature.
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Arsenal keen on Anthony Gordon
Arsenal are hoping to build a team with an English core, and Gordon could prove to be an excellent addition. They need more creativity on the flanks, and Gordon will add goals to the team. He is also versatile enough to operate centrally, and that could make him a very handy option in the attack.
The opportunity to join Arsenal will be quite exciting for the Newcastle star. He will be able to fight for league titles and compete in the Champions League regularly with Arsenal.
Newcastle are looking to build a formidable team for the future, and selling one of their best attacking players would be a huge blow. They are already struggling in the final third, and they have been overly dependent on Gordon.
Meanwhile, the 25-year-old has been linked with Liverpool as well. It remains to be seen where he ends up. The player is entering the peak years of his career, and this could be the right time for him to take the next step and join a bigger team, where he can fight for trophies.
A deal will not be straightforward, and Arsenal might have to pay well over the odds in order to convince Newcastle.
Gordon has 17 goals and five assists in all competitions this season, including 10 strikes and 12 Champions League matches.
Liverpool are interested in signing the United States International Malik Tillman at the end of the season.
The 23-year-old has done well in the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen, and he could prove to be an excellent acquisition for the Reds. They could use more creativity and goals from the middle of the park, and the 23-year-old could be an ideal fit.
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Liverpool readying a bid for Malik Tillman
Liverpool is prepared to come forward with an official offer to sign the United States international in the summer. They could offer £60 million to get the deal done, according to Sports Boom. It remains to be seen whether the German outfit is prepared to sanction his departure. They paid £30 million for the midfielder, and a sale to Liverpool could see them double their investment.
The 23-year-old could be excited about the possibility of moving to the Premier League. Liverpool is among the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to join them will be hard to turn down for the young midfielder. Regular football in England could help him improve further and fulfil his potential. The player has seven goals from midfield this season and has the technical attributes to succeed in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Liverpool needs to improve multiple areas of their squad, and it remains to be seen whether they are prepared to move forward with a £60 million deal for the United States International. Signing a defensive midfielder should be a top priority for them instead. They have looked quite vulnerable at the back, and a reliable defensive midfielder would plug a huge weakness.
Tillman is a talented player with a bright future, but Liverpool have players like Florian Wirtz and Alexis Mac Allister at their disposal, who can score goals and create opportunities from the central areas. Meanwhile, Chelsea wanted to sign Tillman last year.
Arsenal are interested in signing the Norwegian winger Jens Petter Hauge at the end of the season.
According to a report from Sports Boom, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been captivated by his performances in the UEFA Champions League this season (six goals and two assists), and the club is hoping to secure his signature. The player will cost around £40 million in the summer, and Arsenal will face competition from Manchester United as well.
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Arsenal could use Jens Petter Hauge
The 26-year-old is at the peak of his career, and the opportunity to move to England could be exciting for him. Arsenal needs more quality on the flanks, and he could prove to be a very useful acquisition. He will add goals and flair to the team. Arsenal needs more unpredictability going forward. It remains to be seen whether they are prepared to pay £40 million for the attacker in the summer.
On the other hand, Manchester United is monitoring his situation. They need more depth on the team, especially given that they could be competing in the UEFA Champions League next season. They need a deeper squad with more quality, and the Norwegian could be a handy option for them in the attack.
Arsenal and Manchester United are among the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to join them will be exciting for the attacker.
Hauge is reportedly desperate to take the next step in his career, and playing in the Premier League is a dream for him. He wants to test himself against the league’s best defenders.
Arsenal are optimistic about winning the race for the player, and it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds in the coming weeks.
Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali is a target for Manchester United and Manchester City at the end of the season.
However, it will not be easy for them to get the deal done. According to a report from TEAMtalk, Newcastle value him at £100 million, but that is not the only issue with the transfer. Juventus are interested in the 25-year-old Italian international, and Tonali has a genuine desire to return to Italian football. It will be interesting to see if the interest from Juventus is tempting for him.
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Sandro Tonali would improve both Manchester clubs
There is no doubt that he is a quality player, and he has shown that in the Premier League. He has been a reliable defensive midfielder for Newcastle, and he has the quality to improve Manchester United and Manchester City as well.
Manchester United need a quality long-term replacement for Casemiro, and Tonali would be an ideal fit. He is well settled in the Premier League, and he could make an immediate impact. On the other hand, Manchester City has been overly dependent on Rodri as their defensive midfielder. The Spanish international needs more support, and an alternative would be ideal. Tonali could share the workload with Rodri.
It remains to be seen whether the two Manchester clubs are willing to pay around £100 million in order to get the deal done. They would need to convince the player to put his plans of returning to Italy on the back burner as well.
It will not be a straightforward deal, and it remains to be seen how the situation develops in the summer. Newcastle will want to hold onto their best players so they can compete at a high level.
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Rayan would be an expensive signing
The 19-year-old Brazilian attacker has a contract with the club until 2031, and his deal includes a €100 million release clause. It will be difficult for any club to secure his signature anytime soon.
The 19-year-old has managed to hit the ground running in the Premier League, and he’s highly rated across Europe. There is no doubt that he has the potential to develop into a quality player with the right guidance. Regular football in the Premier League will help him improve further and fulfil his potential. Rayan has scored twice in the league so far.
It remains to be seen whether clubs like Manchester United or Liverpool decide to make a move for him in the summer. They have the resources to trigger his release clause, and the player could be attracted to the idea of joining them as well.
The Brazilian should look to join a club with a defined role for him in the starting lineup.
Manchester United already have Bryan Mbeumo playing in his position. At Liverpool, he could be the ideal long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah. Real Madrid could use more quality on the flanks as well. It remains to be seen which of the three clubs decides to follow up on their interest with an official offer in the summer.
James Garner has been linked with a return to Manchester United in recent months.
The 25-year-old has been excellent for Everton since joining the club, and he has established himself as a reliable performer in the Premier League. Manchester United could use someone like him in the middle of the park, and former star Nicky Butt has urged the club to bring him back.
Any deal will be quite difficult, given that the player recently signed a long-term deal with Everton.
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Man United told to sign James Garner
“I don’t see why he couldn’t be back at United,” Butt said (h/t TEAMtalk). “He’s performing well, he’s playing for a big club with a big expectation with their crowd.
“Obviously, they’re not expected to go and win the Premier League, but they’re expected to win, and they’ve got passionate support.
“So he plays under pressure every week, he knows Man United, and yeah, he’s doing amazingly well now.
“He’s got to do it again next season, it’s a bit soon to go and pay big money for him now, but I’m confident he can go and do it.”
Garner can operate as a central midfielder as well as in defence. He is a versatile player, and he could be the ideal utility man for Manchester United. They will be competing in the UEFA Champions League next season and need a deeper, higher-quality squad. They need players who can slot into multiple roles and perform at a high level.
It remains to be seen whether Everton is prepared to sanction his departure. Garner is an indispensable asset for them, and his departure would be a huge blow. However, the opportunity to return to his former club could be exciting for the 25-year-old. He might feel that he has unfinished business at Old Trafford. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
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Man United make their move for Myles Lewis-Skelly
According to Ben Jacobs, Manchester United have already made an enquiry for the 19-year-old and rate the player highly. The defender is reportedly open to exploring a move in order to play more often next season. However, Manchester United have not approached Arsenal yet. In addition, they will need to convince the young defender that the move would be ideal for his development.
“United made an informal enquiry, they like him,” Jacobs said (h/t TEAMtalk). “The player is prepared to explore options in order to seek more game time.
“If someone wants to approach club-to-club talks, they’ll have to overpay. Suitors will need to get Lewis-Skelly to buy into the move first, in order to convince Arsenal to negotiate.”
Convincing Arsenal to sell the player will be difficult as well. The Gunners will not want to lose a promising young player like him, but they are not able to accommodate him in the starting lineup either. They might have to reluctantly let him leave, but they will not want to sell to a direct rival.
Chelsea is expected to sign the Argentine midfielder Valentin Barco at the end of the season.
According to a report from TYC Sports, the former Boca Juniors player is expected to join the London club in the coming months. Although the transfer has yet to be completed and some details remain pending, a contractual agreement is already in place between Chelsea and the player.
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Valentin Barco to reunite with Rosenior
The South American midfielder has played under Rosenior during their time together at Strasbourg, and the Chelsea boss is well aware of his qualities. The 21-year-old is highly rated across Europe and South America. He could prove to be an excellent long-term acquisition for Chelsea. The player has two goals and nine assists this season, and he is capable of operating in multiple areas of the pitch. The 21-year-old can operate as a fullback and a defensive midfielder.
His versatility will be a huge boost for Chelsea if they can get the deal over the line. They need more quality and depth in the squad, and the 21-year-old would be a long-term investment for them.
The report from TYC Sports claims that the player is now one step away from playing for Chelsea.
Barco has a bright future ahead of himself, and he will look to establish himself as a key player for the Argentina national team as well. Joining one of the biggest clubs in England will certainly enhances chances of starting regularly for his country.
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Man United keen on Nico Schlotterbeck
Sky Germany reporter Florian Pletteberg has confirmed (h/t TEAMtalk) that the Premier League is interested in securing a signature, but the player has yet to make a concrete decision regarding his future.
If the player decides not to sign a new deal, he will be sold in the summer. The German outfit will not want to lose him for free next year. The player will be available for a fee of €30-€35 million.
Plettenberg revealed: “I can confirm that Man Utd are interested in Nico Schlotterbeck. If he doesn’t renew his contract, he’ll be available in the summer for €30m-35m (£26-31m).”
It is no secret that Manchester United needs to improve defensively, and signing a quality central defender like Schlotterbeck would be a wise decision. He has proven his quality in the Bundesliga and with the national team. He has the quality needed to compete at the highest level. A move to the Premier League could be a tempting proposition for him. He is at the peak of his career, and this could be the right time for him to take on a new challenge. Schlotterbeck has been hailed as “outstanding” by Julian Nagelsmann.
Manchester United are well placed to secure Champions League qualification next season, and they could provide him with a competitive platform. The asking price is quite reasonable as well, and the Red Devils would do well to secure his signature.
Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley have struggled with persistent injury problems this season, and Liverpool needs more reliability in that area of the pitch. Signing the 21-year-old right back could be a wise decision for them. Palestra has five goal contributions this season.
The Premier League is seen as the most concrete destination for Palestra’s future. While Liverpool’s interest stands out, Inter, Juventus, and Tottenham have also placed the young defender on their radar. Inter, who backed away in January due to complications with his loan status, are now preparing a bid of around €35 million for the summer. Atalanta’s interest in Carlos Augusto could help smooth negotiations for Palestra.
Sources have informed CaughtOffside that Tottenham and Newcastle have “scouted him in several matches”, underlining the growing attention he is receiving in England. Despite this, Liverpool is considered the strongest candidate financially. The club see Palestra, who has already shown consistency in Serie A despite his age, as both an immediate reinforcement and a long-term investment.
In conclusion, Marco Palestra is emerging as one of the standout defensive targets of the summer transfer window. If Liverpool is willing to meet the €45 million valuation, the young right-back could step into the Premier League and open a new chapter in his career. Inter’s lower bid and the interest from other clubs add intrigue to the situation, but Liverpool remains the most likely destination both financially and competitively.
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Watch below as Guardiola paid tribute to Rodri as an “incredible” player, but also told him in no uncertain terms to knock on the door of the club’s sporting director if he wants them to sort out his sale…
?? Pep Guardiola has sent a CLEAR message to Rodri – if you want to leave, you have to leave! ? pic.twitter.com/j9J2txlp5I
What Fabrizio Romano has said about Rodri transfer situation
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano provided his insight into the Rodri situation, which sounds like it’s still fairly open.
The 29-year-old has been discussed as a target for Real, but City have also offered him a new contract as they’d ideally like him to stay.
“The key point here is that Rodri in this moment, then we never know in football, but in this moment has two ways to decide whether he wants to stay at Manchester City and also eventually sign a new contract if he wants, or plan for a move away from Man City,” Romano said.
“So his statements about Real Madrid were quite strong. Obviously the appreciation from Real Madrid is there. So for sure Real Madrid internally are discussing about Rodri and is an option for Real Madrid. But at the moment there is still no bid, no direct club to club talks for Rodri.
“But what’s the point? Rodri from what I understand already has a new contract proposal into his hands from Manchester City. So Man City are offering a new contract to Rodri and they are prepared to give him an important salary.”
Romano added that Rodri would now have to decide whether to stay for one more year, stay and sign a new deal, or leave for the Bernabeu.
Given how important Rodri has been to City down the years, they’ll surely want to avoid his departure this summer, with the club already struggling since Kevin De Bruyne’s exit last year, while Bernardo Silva and John Stones are set to be out of contract at the end of this campaign.
Liverpool remain in active conversations with Ibrahima Konate and his camp over a new contract.
There are discussions ongoing with the French defender. At the moment there’s still nothing done or agreed, but the conversations are still underway.
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From Real Madrid at the moment, what I can say is that Real Madrid, a few months ago, before Christmas, informed Liverpool that they were not advancing on a deal to sign Ibrahima Konate.
But Real Madrid keep following centre-backs on the market because David Alaba is expected to leave the club in the summer, and so they could add one more at centre-back position.
Ibrahima Konate open to continuing at Liverpool, nothing advanced with Real Madrid
? EXCLUSIVE ?
Ibrahima Konate is "open" to continuing at Liverpool as the club continue in talks over a new contract.
The player is open to continuing at Liverpool, but obviously it’s an important contract for his career, and so the conversation is going to continue with new contacts expected this month in April to take a final decision as soon as possible on the future of Ibrahima Konate regarding a potential move or a new contract.
April 2nd – Dressing room source claims there’s now more of a chance of Konate staying at Liverpool than there is of him leaving, according to the Athletic.
What do you think will happen with Konate this summer? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has reportedly given his agent the clear instruction of getting him a dream transfer to Real Madrid.
The Argentina international feels ready for a new challenge and the coming weeks could be crucial to determining his future, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes.
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Of course, it wouldn’t exactly be ideal for Liverpool, but there’s perhaps also an argument that Mac Allister’s form has gone a little downhill this season, so he could be replaced.
It will be interesting to see what happens with Fernandez, who has been suspended by Liam Rosenior for Chelsea’s next two games, perhaps hinting that his time at Stamford Bridge could be coming to an end.
Still, CFC also invested a lot in the former Benfica man, so surely won’t be too keen to let him go for anything other than huge money.
That could make Mac Allister the more realistic option for Los Blancos.
Could Liverpool replace Alexis Mac Allister?
LFC might do well to change things around in midfield this summer after a disappointing campaign, with Mac Allister not exactly looking like someone who’d be totally irreplaceable.
The 27-year-old was recently linked with Real in a potential swap deal that could bring Eduardo Camavinga to Anfield, as per Fichajes.
That could be smart business by Liverpool if they pull it off, with Camavinga offering more of a physical presence and more defensive discipline in that position, whilst also being younger, with the potential to keep on improving in the next few years.
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On top of that, the Spanish tactician addressed the situation with Madueke, who did play for England but who had to go off with what looked like a bad problem.
Still, as quoted by the Evening Standard, Arteta now says it looks like it will only be a minor issue for Madueke, with the Gunners boss describing it as “really good news”.
Mikel Arteta on Noni Madueke injury
“It looked really bad. Noni was really worried, especially after what happened in his other knee a few weeks out and he was out for six weeks. But no, it’s nowhere near that injury. That was really good news,” Arteta said.
The 24-year-old should now have a role to play for Arsenal towards the end of this season as they chase the Premier League title, Champions League, and FA Cup.
Arteta on other Arsenal injuries
Arteta also spoke somewhat cryptically about Arsenal’s other injuries, simply stating that the club have a good relationship with the national teams.
It seems like some AFC players might have pulled out in order to rest for the run-in, but Arteta didn’t confirm or deny that.
“We have very good relationships and communication with most of the national teams,” Arteta said.
He added: “In the end there was a medical decision that has to be made. It was clear what the conclusion was.
“When a player is fit and available, he has to play. It makes us very proud that we have that many players in the national team and the players are desperate to play with the national team.
“We are fully supportive of that. When we can do it, we do it.”
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