All posts by z3u9t.icu

Chelsea went into the current matchweek in the Premier League in second place in the table and they are firmly a part of the current title race under Enzo Maresca.

The Blues have won nine and only lost two of their opening 15 matches in the division, and are set to face off against Brentford at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

They come into that game off the back of a 3-1 win over Astana in the Conference League on Thursday night, thanks to two goals from Marc Guiu and one from Renato Veiga.

Despite Chelsea’s fantastic form this season, Maresca is reportedly making plans to make further additions to his playing squad in the upcoming transfer windows.

Chelsea eyeing up Bundesliga duo

According to Sky Sports Germany, Chelsea are lining up moves for Borussia Dortmund duo Karim Adeyemi and Gregor Kobel, although they may wait until the summer, rather than swooping for them in January.

The report claims that the German striker has been a long-term target for the Blues, but that other Premier League teams are also keen on securing his services.

It adds that Kobel is also ‘on the list’ for the West London outfit and states that he is an option for them at the end of the season, as they are prepared to wait until next summer to attempt to sign him.

Sky Sports Germany

Transfer Focus

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

reveals that there have been talks between the club and the player’s representatives, but there have been no advanced discussions over a move to Stamford Bridge.

Maresca must, now, push for the board to bring the £144k-per-week shot-stopper to the club because he could come in as a big upgrade on Robert Sanchez.

Why Gregor Kobel would be an upgrade on Robert Sanchez

The Switzerland international’s form in the Bundesliga and the Champions League since the start of last season suggests that he would come in and improve Chelsea’s team.

Kobel, who was hailed as “really good” by Dortmund goalkeeping coach Matthias Kleinsteiber, has prevented 5.87 xG in 17 matches in the Champions League and prevented 2.4 xG across 38 appearances in the German top-flight in that time.

Appearances

38

30

Goals prevented

2.4

0.15

Error led to shot

1

3

Error led to goal

1

4

Aerial duels won

100%

100%

As you can see in the table above, Sanchez has only prevented 0.15 xG for Chelsea in the Premier League since the start of last season, whilst he is yet to make his European debut for the Blues.

The Spanish dud has also made a whopping seven errors that have led to shots or goals, whilst Kobel has only made two in 55 Bundesliga and Champions League outings for Dortmund.

These statistics suggest that the 27-year-old Swiss titan is a significantly better shot-stopper who is also far less prone to making huge errors that put his defenders and team in trouble.

Chelsea may have found a new £75m star in the making vs Astana

A number of youngsters captured the eye during Chelsea’s 3-1 win over Astana.

ByConnor Holden Dec 13, 2024

Therefore, Chelsea could improve their team by having a more reliable presence between the sticks if they sign Kobel to come in and replace Sanchez as the number one, whether it happens in January or next summer.

Liverpool were supposed to collapse when Jurgen Klopp left. Like a house of cards. Rivals wanted the Reds cast back into the depths of mediocrity after their prosperous period. Liverpool had had their heyday, and it was time for some new blood to challenge indomitable Manchester City.

How wrong they were. To be fair, Liverpool’s own fanbase has been flummoxed by the ridiculous football being played under Arne Slot’s management. Four points clear at the pole of the Premier League at Christmas – and with a game in hand too.

Tottenham Hotspur have been hailed for their entertaining football. Ange Postecoglou knows how to raise the volume from the dugout. The problem for those of a Spurs persuasion is he doesn’t really control which area of the crowd that noise will come from.

Liverpool pounced on Tottenham’s chaos and won 6-3 on Sunday afternoon. It was beautiful, beguiling, brilliant. The forwards were in full swing.

Mohamed Salah was the main man – no surprises there – but Luis Diaz returned to Premier League form brilliantly with a two-goal performance down N17.

Luis Diaz's striking success

Diaz, 27, assumed the centre-forward spot at Tottenham with Diogo Jota being managed after a long injury and Darwin Nunez’s inconsistency convincing Slot that he needed to be benched.

Diaz isn’t a natural striker but his movements and trickiness make him a slippery customer with Cody Gakpo and Salah flanking. If you can only say one thing for Slot, you’d have to praise his tactical brilliance.

As per Sofascore, Diaz complemented his two-goal return with two key passes and success in his one attempted dribble. He’s dynamic and difficult to defend against, but not the solution at number nine in the long run.

Liverpool eyeing new forward

Liverpool will need to consider a new striker in several months, for Nunez has only scored four goals across 22 outings in 2024/25 and Jota, as stated, cannot be trusted on the fitness front.

Transfer Focus

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

As per Football Insider, FSG have found their dream solution in Brighton & Hove Albion’s Joao Pedro. The 23-year-old has been excellent since arriving on the south coast in 2023 and is also catching Arsenal’s eye.

Liverpool’s recruitment team are understood to have discussed Joao Pedro in recent transfer conversations, and it may well be that he is right at the top of the shopping list, with a bid now being plotted.

However, the Seagulls are no pushovers and will look to collect £60m for their talisman’s departure, but on the basis of the evidence, his arrival would be worth the financial blow.

Why Joao Pedro could be better than Luis Diaz

Diaz is wonderfully electric, but the problem with his energy is that it can’t be channelled into something fluent and even. Instead, it’s bumpy and slanted, leaving Liverpool with a world-class talent prone to lapses.

Before his north London brace, the Colombian had gone three months – ten fixtures – since a top-flight goal, but then with 11 strikes from 23 matches across all competitions, he’s hardly flattering to deceive.

Even so, Brighton’s South American star has the quality to take his place when the time comes. Indeed, Diaz’s tentative contract discussions with Liverpool over a new contract have reportedly provided no fruit so far, with the respective parties believed to have ‘disagreements’.

Barcelona are long-time admirers and it feels like next summer could be the perfect time to cash in while the 27-year-old’s stock is high.

Joao Pedro must be his replacement, already a potent force. As per FBref, Joao Pedro ranks among the top 11% of Premier League forwards this season for goals scored, the top 16% for assists and the top 12% for aerial battles won per 90, emphasising not only his potency but his physicality too.

He’s scored four goals and assisted three more from just 11 Premier League games (nine starts). Last season, he notched 20 strikes from 44 matches across all competitions, impressing after his £30m transfer from Watford.

Diaz is a showman, one of the league’s great entertainers, but Pedro also carries that special something that raises roofs. He has recently been described as a “really magical” player by Bundesliga commentator Kevin Hatchard.

Matches (starts)

16 (11)

11 (9)

Goals

7

4

Assists

2

3

Touches*

32.9

40.1

Shots (on target)

1.9 (0.9)

1.6 (0.6)

Pass completion

86%

76%

Key passes*

1.3

1.2

Dribble (success)*

1.3 (47%)

1.3 (47%)

Tackles + interceptions*

1.0

1.1

Total duels (won)*

3.3 (38%)

5.0 (52%)

The fact is that Pedro is already producing performances that carry underlying data that outdoes that of Diaz. Liverpool’s winger slash forward doesn’t actually produce the highest output concerning his ball-carrying and ball-playing, hitting a similar vein of creativity and failing to match Brighton’s man in terms of combativeness and defensive strength.

Let’s not forget that the Brighton attacker is only 23, and while he would cost a pretty penny to bring to Anfield, Liverpool would be investing in a talent capable of hitting stratospheric heights across the seasons to come.

Ultimately, Liverpool are going to need to address their problem at number nine, with Nunez unable to prove his composure and clinical edge thus far and Diaz probably not the long-term solution.

Diaz is a first-rate player, but he’s prone to blips and is most naturally effective as a left winger anyway.

In Pedro, Liverpool would secure an upgrade in the striker’s seat while bolstering their left flank too, given that the Brazilian has played ample football on the wing.

Slot has taken Klopp’s gifted group of players and sharpened them to a fine attacking point. Brighton’s main man would only go from strength to strength on Merseyside, and FSG need to make it happen.

Liverpool lining up "monster" £178k-p/w Robertson upgrade

Arne Slot’s high-flying Liverpool side will need to make some repairs in 2025.

ByAngus Sinclair Dec 21, 2024

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is starting change his mind about capturing a new forward in January, following two injury blows to Bukayo Saka and Raheem Sterling, which have left the Spaniard much shorter of options out wide.

Mikel Arteta refuses to rule out January deals at Arsenal

Both Saka and Sterling are set to be out for weeks after picking up fresh Arsenal injuries, dealing a real worry to Arteta, who must now contend without the two England internationals in crucial Premier League fixtures.

"Extraordinary" player "top" Arsenal target to replace £200k-per-week star

The Gunners are putting plans in motion.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Dec 24, 2024

Arsenal take on Ipswich Town, Brentford and Brighton over the next two weeks, with Newcastle, Man United and a North London derby against Tottenham coming thick and fast right after the turn of the year.

Ipswich Town (home)

December 27

Brentford (away)

January 1

Brighton (away)

January 4

Tottenham (home)

January 15

Aston Villa (home)

January 18

Arteta will have to be clever in plugging the gaps left by Saka and Sterling, with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus both able to play out wide in their stead.

The Spaniard will also need both Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli on top form, with highly-rated youngster Ethan Nwaneri now potentially set for another regular run in the team.

However, the January transfer window also represents a significant opportunity to bring in fresh faces as another solution.

Saka’s last injury, which he picked up in England’s 2-1 defeat to Greece at Wembley in October, keeping him out for multiple games, prompted reports that Arsenal could look to sign a new winger as an alternative – and we’re beginning to see similar rumours come to light once again.

Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s looming festive clash with Ipswich, Arteta refused to rule out the possibility of his side making a mid-season signing.

“Yes, the preparation is done. We are ready if something happens,” said Arteta on Arsenal signing a player in January.

“Obviously we didn’t predict the situation with Bukayo and Raheem at the same time. We predicted more if something has happened, for example, in the defensive line. But the job is done. Then, okay, if something has to happen we will be open. But the main focus is now how we should strive to distil the potential that there is in this squad.”

Mikel Arteta begins to pull "major U-turn" over signing attacker for Arsenal

According to GiveMeSport, it appears both Arteta and the club’s board weren’t planning on bringing in a new wide-player next month, but that is starting to change in light of Saka and Sterling’s absences.

Indeed, it is believed Arteta is beginning to pull a “major U-turn” over signing a “versatile” attacker for Arsenal in January, with the Gunners boss now forced to re-think his initial plans and potentially bring in a new wide-forward next month.

The boss’ stance was that he’d only green-light a swoop if there was an opportunity too good to pass up. However, Arsenal’s latest string of blows has pushed Arteta and “influential figures behind the scenes” into altering their ideas.

Of the targets linked with moves to N5, there are a few interesting options. Other media sources have previously claimed that Arsenal are considering a January move for Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo, while it is also reported that Real Sociedad winger Takefusa Kubo is on Arteta’s list of potential targets.

Newcastle United currently sit in fifth place in the Premier League table and are battling it out to secure a position in the Champions League for next season.

The Magpies have won their last six matches in all competitions and are fresh off the back of a 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur in North London on Saturday.

As you can see in the highlights below, all three of Eddie Howe’s starting attackers were involved in the two goals, with Anthony Gordon and Alexander Isak scoring and Jacob Murphy assisting the second goal.

Murphy has now contributed with an eye-catching three goals and seven assists in 17 appearances in the Premier League this season, which shows that he has stepped up to provide regular quality on that right side of the attack.

The former Norwich star turns 30 next month, however, and is unlikely to be the long-term solution to Howe’s problems in that position moving forward.

Newcastle could dip into the market in the January transfer window to find a long-term option to grow into that role, by signing a player closer to Hatem Ben Arfa in style than Murphy.

Hatem Ben Arfa's time with Newcastle

The French magician was a left-footed star who could play as an attacking midfielder or on the right flank, cutting in onto his left foot from the right, during his time at St. James’ Park.

In three years on Tyneside, Ben Arfa contributed with 14 goals and 15 assists in 86 appearances in all competitions for the Magpies, which shows that he offered plenty of quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals.

Beyond his goals and assists, the Toon sensation was simply a joy to watch. The mercurial playmaker, who averaged 2.9 successful dribbles per game throughout his career, was not afraid to run at defenders to get the team up the pitch and fans off their seats.

As you can see in the clip above, Ben Arfa had the ability to weave in and out of multiple challenges to create moments of magic in the final third, which resulted in wondergoals when he could apply the finishing touch to go with it.

Of course, not every mazy dribble ended with a goal or an assist, otherwise he would not have been playing for Newcastle battling in midtable in the Premier League at the time, but he often provided a spark when the team needed one out of nowhere.

Ben Arfa was a player the fans could get excited to watch play football week-in-week-out and Howe could unearth the club’s new version of the French sensation by swooping to sign one of Newcastle’s reported transfer targets before the end of the January window.

Newcastle eyeing Premier League gem

Last month, Football Insider reported that the Magpies are one of the clubs interested in a deal to sign Southampton forward Tyler Dibling ahead of the second half of the season.

The outlet claimed that Newcastle and Manchester United are both eyeing up the 18-year-old starlet after his impressive start to life in the Premier League with the struggling Saints.

It was reported that Dibling would prefer a move to St. James’ Park over one to Old Trafford, however, due to concerns over the kind of game time he would get with Ruben Amorim’s side.

Football Insider added that it could take a fee of up to £30m to convince Southampton to part ways with their star academy product, despite their struggles on the pitch in the top-flight this season.

It was not revealed, however, whether or not Newcastle would be prepared to offer that kind of money to secure a deal for the England youth international in the January transfer window.

Transfer Focus

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

The report did state, though, that any deal for Dibling is more likely to happen in the summer transfer window and that relegation from the Premier League for Southampton, who have six points on the table, could make an exit for the teenage star ‘inevitable’.

Whether it happens this month or ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, Howe could unearth the club’s next version of Hatem Ben Arfa by striking a deal to bring Dibling to St. James’ Park to bolster his options at the top end of the pitch.

Why Tyler Dibling could be Hatem Ben Arfa 2.0

Firstly, the Saints star does not turn 19 until February and is not yet at the peak of his powers in senior football, so he is someone who could come in with the long-term picture in mind.

This means that Howe could work with him on the training pitch to help the teenage sensation to fulfill his potential and elevate himself to a Ben Arfa level, or even higher, talent.

Anthony Gordon produced seven goals and three assists in 65 Premier League matches for Everton, a hardly prolific return, yet has managed 17 goals and 14 assists in 70 top-flight games under Howe, which shows the kind of development the manager can oversee.

Dibling’s form at youth level, with 19 goals and 11 assists in 59 academy matches for Southampton, suggests that the potential is there for him to develop into a regular contributor in the final third at first-team level, like Gordon.

As you can see in the clips above, from a clash with Newcastle’s U21 side in 2022, he has the technical ability to produce Ben Arfa-esque moments driving forward with his left foot to score impressive goals.

Despite his age, inexperience, and the six-point team he is playing in, Dibling has showcased glimpses of his talent at Premier League level so far this season.

Appearances

19

Starts

13

Goals

2

Big chances created

2

Successful dribbles

27

As you can see in the table above, the English whiz, who U23 scout Antonio Mango claimed is “balling out”, has contributed completed more than two dribbles per start on average, and scored twice.

Howe could bring the left-footed star, who has predominantly been deployed on the right flank but can also play centrally, to St. James’ Park with a view to helping him take the next step in his career, as he did with Gordon, to turn Dibling into Ben Arfa 2.0 for the Magpies.

Newcastle want to sign "outstanding" £58m star who's been better than Isak

Newcastle United will have a contingency plan in place in case Alexander Isak does leave.

ByKelan Sarson Jan 6, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou is personally eager for the club to move for a “versatile” player who’s impressed club scouts, as the Lilywhites continue pursuing their second January signing after missing out on Randal Kolo Muani.

Juventus win race for Kolo Muani as Tottenham miss out

Over the last week and beyond, Spurs and Juventus were reliably believed to be tussling for Kolo Muani’s signature – but a winner of the race has now been confirmed by reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano.

£27m player ready to join Tottenham if clubs can agree January deal

Spurs hold a serious advantage over fellow competitors.

3 ByEmilio Galantini Jan 11, 2025

On Tuesday evening, Romano dropped his famous “here we go” as Juve pipped Spurs in the battle for Kolo Muani’s signature – dealing bad news for Postecoglou, technical director Johan Lange and chairman Daniel Levy, as they are forced to return to the drawing board.

The 26-year-old PSG outcast was deemed by Spurs one of the best attackers available for hire on the January market (David Ornstein), so this news will come as a real blow for the club as they also prepare for a tense North London Derby against Arsenal this evening.

Following their snubbed advances to sign Kolo Muani, Postecoglou’s side remain in the market for a new forward, and the Australian has pleaded for his side to bring in some “help” for striker Dominic Solanke.

“If we can get him some help, yeah. Dom has just been outstanding in the way he’s carried the frontline for us during this period,” said Postecoglou on support for Solanke.

“With Dom being a new player, it probably would have been easier for him to slip in and do his job but he’s taken on the responsibility of helping the whole team. He’s been great for us. I really feel there is more to him and his game. We’ll be able to get more out of him if we can him some help.”

As well as another attacking option, reports suggest they’re in the market for another midfielder. Tottenham are targeting Inter Milan’s Davide Frattesi as one option for that role, while it is believed Palmeiras star Richard Rios is on their agenda as well.

Ange Postecoglou really wants Richard Rios at Tottenham

As per CaughtOffside, sharing an update on their links to the Colombia international, Postecoglou is personally “very keen” for Tottenham to sign Rios.

This follows reports that Spurs had an official bid rejected for Rios very recently, and while it is unclear how much they offered, he could actually be snapped up for much cheaper than his £84 million release clause.

The 24-year-old signed a new contract in October 2024, including the seismic clause, but reports in South America claimed soon afterward that Palmeiras won’t sell for any less than £13 million (Hoy Diario del Magdalena via Sport Witness).

Rios is said to have really impressed N17 scouts as well. However, Spurs face stiff competition from Everton and Nottingham Forest, who are pushing hard to land the South American.

“Richard is a versatile player who can fit into several roles in midfield,” said Palmeiras head coach Abel Ferreira. “His ability to both defend and attack makes him a valuable asset for any team. We are excited to see what he brings to our squad.”

In the past decade or so, Liverpool have had some exceptional wingers play for the club. Of course, the best of the bunch has undoubtedly been Mohamed Salah. Jamie Carragher claimed that the Egyptian is “in the top five players to have ever played for Liverpool”, and he is now not far off 350 goals and assists for the club.

One of Salah’s teammates, Sadio Mane, was another standout winger who donned the famous Red shirt. The Senegal attacker scored 120 times and grabbed 42 assists in 269 Liverpool appearances.

Nowadays, the likes of Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo, alongside Salah, are some of the electric wingers at Arne Slot’s disposal. If rumours are to be believed, they might soon be joined by another exciting wideman who the Reds are linked with.

Liverpool target new winger

The player in question here is Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens. It has been an exceptional season so far for the England under-21 international, and he has been linked with a move to some of the biggest clubs in Europe.

Transfer Focus

According to a report from reputable journalist Christian Falk, the Reds are “in the transfer race” to sign Gittens, in a deal that would seemingly be completed in the summer rather than a move during the January transfer window.

Slot’s side will face tough competition. Bayern Munich are keen on the player, as are some of Liverpool’s Premier League rivals, namely Manchester United and Chelsea.

Any club wishing to sign the former Manchester City academy star would need to pay Dortmund’s £84m asking price.

Why Gittens would be a good signing

It has been a simply fantastic season so far for the 20-year-old. In 28 games so far across all competitions, he has 11 goals and five assists, including four goals in seven games in the Champions League.

That included a superb goal away to Real Madrid in Dortmund’s 5-2 defeat, which actually gave his side a 2-0 lead before their capitulation.

That day, the former Man City academy man became the youngest ever Englishman to score against Los Blancos, a record to be proud of.

Described as an “explosive” player by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, the London-born attacker is predominantly a left-winger. However, he has also featured on the right wing for Dortmund, and even made an appearance as a number ten, showing great versatility which Slot could rely on.

If he did make the move to Anfield next summer, he would likely be going up against Luis Diaz for a spot in the team. Like Gittens, the Colombian winger has impressed this term, with 12 goals and three assists in 30 games.

Diaz has been on fire in front of goal at times in the 2024/25 campaign. On four different occasions, he has managed to score two or more goals in a single game, including a Champions League hat-trick in a 4-0 thrashing of Bayer Leverkusen.

Interestingly, even though they might be competing for one spot in the Reds’ team, there are statistical comparisons, as per FBref, that can be drawn between Gittens and Diaz from this season’s Champions League.

There is a lot of value when they shoot, with Gittens averaging 0.31 goals per shot and Diaz slightly less, with 0.3 goals per shot each game.

The Dortmund star is a chance creator, averaging 1.11 key passes and 0.56 goal-creating actions per 90 minutes. In comparison, the Liverpool number seven averages 0.96 key passes and 0.39 goal-creating actions each game.

Stat (per 90)

Gittens

Diaz

Goals per shot

0.31

0.3

Key passes

1.11

0.96

Goal-creating actions

0.56

0.39

Take-ons completed

2.59

2.69

Progressive carries

6.11

4.23

It would cost Liverpool a lot of money to sign Gittens, but perhaps it is a necessary deal. The Reds would be bringing in a young winger with high potential who could be considered the second coming of Diaz, as the stats suggest.

In terms of planning for their project, this could be the dream move for Liverpool as they look to build on a fantastic start made under Slot.

Disaster for Slot: PSG want Liverpool monster & it's not Salah or Van Dijk

Liverpool are flying high but need to sort a lot out behind the scenes.

ByAngus Sinclair Jan 25, 2025

Arsenal have been handed a late chance to grant Mikel Arteta’s wish for a new striker, with the Spaniard making no secret of his desire to secure a prolific, fresh option up front before the deadline in two days’ time.

Mikel Arteta makes transfer admission at Arsenal

Just under 48 hours remain of this winter window, leaving interim sporting director Jason Ayto with precious little time to back Arteta with the ideal forward he craves in N5.

Arteta suffers fresh Arsenal transfer blow after Ornstein update

The Spaniard won’t be happy.

ByEmilio Galantini Jan 31, 2025

Arsenal’s manager previously confirmed their need for another attacker midway through January, after long-term injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka, with Arteta again speaking of the club’s late work on transfer activity in his latest pre-match press conference ahead of their Manchester City clash.

“We are trying everything that we can, but I don’t want to give any reassurance or not,” said Arteta on the rest of Arsenal’s transfer window.

Man City (home)

February 2nd

Leicester City (away)

February 15th

West Ham (home)

February 22nd

Nottingham Forest (away)

February 26th

Man United (away)

March 9th

“I don’t know, it doesn’t depend only on us, so our intention is clear, but the possibilities are affected by three parties. I’m very confident with the work that the club is doing and exploring every single opportunity that we believe can have an impact on the team. That’s certainly the case, and if we can agree something, we will. If not, we won’t.”

Arsenal submitted a £60 million bid for Ollie Watkins earlier this week, which came on the eve of Aston Villa’s crucial Champions League clash at home to Celtic, and it was swiftly rejected by Unai Emery’s side.

There have been some reports that Arsenal could make a second bid for Watkins, as the boyhood Gunners supporter is keen on a move to north London (as per Graeme Bailey), but Villa selling Jhon Duran to Al-Nassr makes this deal very unlikely at best.

Arsenal offered Bayer Leverkusen star Victor Boniface

According to a report from journalist Graeme Bailey once more, Bayer Leverkusen star Victor Boniface is being presented to Arteta’s side as a potential Watkins alternative.

The Nigerian scored 21 goals in all competitions last campaign, helping Leverkusen to a historic Bundesliga title, and he was subject to an accepted £50 million offer from Al-Nassr before they signed Duran instead.

Arsenal have been offered Boniface by intermediaries, who’ve made them aware of the 24-year-old’s availability as they seek a new club for the striker. Boniface’s injury record could be a cause for concern, but as for his quality, there is little doubt he’d provide Arteta with firepower.

“Victor’s a real problem for opposition defences,” said Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso.

“He’s powerful, quick and makes runs from deep. He has a good mentality and works for the team, not for himself.”

Manchester United are a matter of hours away from completing their first signing of the January transfer window. Patrick Dorgu is set to sign for the Red Devils, according to Fabrizio Romano – who has said the famous “here we go” catchphrase, unofficially confirming the transfer will go ahead.

Romano confirmed he will cost the Red Devils £25m with a further £4m in add-ons. He is the first signing of the Ruben Amorim era, and brings great quality to the United squad. He already has three goals and one assist in a struggling Lecce side this season.

Although there is a matter of days left in the transfer window, Dorgu might not be the only player United sign before the deadline on Monday. They have recently been linked with a new attacker.

United’s attacking target

The player in question here is Bayern Munich and French attacker Mathys Tel. The 19-year-old has simply not had the playing time he hoped for under Vincent Kompany at the German outfit, and seems likely to depart the club this winter. Bayern director Max Eberl said the club “will assess all the options and decide what to do”.

Well, according to highly reputable journalist David Ornstein, United are believed to be ‘interested in signing’ the winger if he is allowed to leave the Bundesliga giants before the window slams shut.

It seems like United are most open to a loan deal, although they are not the only Premier League side considering a move for the Frenchman. Romano confirmed that London sides Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea are also considering a permanent move for the attacker.

Why Tel would be a good signing

It has really not been the season Tel might have imagined at Bayern in 2024/25. Despite having “pure talent”, according to football talent scout Jacek Kulig, he has played just 14 times across all competitions. The 458 minutes he has chalked up equate to just five full 90 minute games.

However, last season the youngster showed exactly what he can do, even when he is given limited opportunities. He played 40 times, scoring 10 goals and grabbing six assists, but the 1406 minutes are the equivalent of 15 full games.

He also got on the scoresheet in Bayern’s 4-3 win against United at the Allianz Arena in the Champions League.

Should the Red Devils bring Tel into the club, he could be the perfect person to replace Marcus Rashford. The Englishman seems like he will depart Old Trafford after spending his entire career at the club. A report from the Mail a few days ago linked Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund to the winger, but they could be tough deals to do.

Although it has been a dismal season for the United number ten, he has an exceptional record for his boyhood club. The 27-year-old has scored 138 goals and has 63 assists in 426 games for United, a stellar return.

With that being said, he was outperformed by Tel last season, where he managed eight goals and five assists in all competitions. In fact, the Frenchman’s stats on FBref from the 2023/24 campaign suggest he might even be an upgrade on the Englishman.

Creatively, the Bayern number 39 seems far superior. Last term, Tel averaged 1.03 key passes and 1.11 goal-creating actions to Rashford’s 0.91 key passes and 0.48 goal-creating actions each game. Tel also has greater value to his shots, with 0.39 goals per shot on target compared to the United star’s 0.26 goals per shot on target per 90 minutes.

Stat (per 90)

Tel

Rashford

Key passes

1.03

0.91

Goal-creating actions

1.11

0.48

Goals per shot on target

0.39

0.26

Progressive carries

3.85

3.77

Take-ons completed

3.16

1.9

If Rashford does end up leaving Old Trafford this month, Tel, who reportedly earns £80k-per-week, could be the man to replace him. He could certainly be considered an upgrade when looking at the stats. He is a direct, tricky goalscorer who could be Amorim’s dream attacker.

He would certainly have a lot to do if he wants to live up to Rashford’s legacy, but there is no doubt he could be the perfect upgrade.

Romano: Man Utd also book medical for "remarkable" 6 ft 2 gem after Dorgu

An agreement is being sealed.

3 ByCharlie Smith Jan 29, 2025

Manchester City are still said to be eyeing a move for a highly rated player in the summer transfer window, having held talks over a move back in January.

Man City transfer news

Pep Guardiola’s side is reportedly one of a number of clubs interested in signing Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Hugo Larsson at the end of the season. The 20-year-old is a highly rated prospect who is also thought to be wanted by the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United, so a Premier League move could be on the cards.

Milan left-back Theo Hernandez has also been mentioned as a transfer target for City as they look to pip reigning Champions League holders Real Madrid to his signature. They could hijack a move in what would have the potential to be an exciting piece of business.

Juventus ace Andrea Cambiaso is another player who has been linked with a summer switch to the Etihad, having caught the eye for the Turin giants this season, scoring twice in Serie A and recording a 90.9% pass completion rate.

Sporting CP star Geovany Quenda has also been backed to move to City in the near future, but they will have to wait until at least the summer after failing to snap him up in January.

Man City still eyeing Maldini-esque ace

According to a fresh claim from Football Insider, Manchester City are still eyeing a move for Cambiaso this summer, following talks over a transfer in the January window.

The 24-year-old is believed to be one of two targets alongside Milan favourite Hernandez as Guardiola looks to strengthen in the full-back areas.

It is easy to see why Cambiaso is seemingly a primary target for City moving forward, with the Italian a player with a bright future in the game and his best years still ahead of him.

He has been given about the highest praise imaginable by Mauro Tasotti, with the former Milan defender comparing him to all-time great Paolo Maldini, saying:

“I haven’t yet understood whether he is right or left-footed. In this sense, he is similar to Paolo Maldini, who however was much more powerful from a physical standpoint, had incredible charisma and was also very strong defensively, so much so that he ended his career as a centre-back.”

That says a huge amount about Cambiaso’s qualities as a footballer, so the idea of City signing him this summer is undoubtedly exciting.

Stat

Total

Appearances

21

Starts

17

Minutes played

1,503

Goals

2

Assists

0

Tackles per game

1.6

Key passes per game

1.1

Pass completion rate

90.9%

The Italy international would be considered a younger alternative to Hernandez, who is three years his senior, making the left-back spot his own for the foreseeable future.

Liverpool are leading several top Premier League clubs in the race for a “ridiculous” attacking player in the summer transfer window, according to a new report from Spain.

Liverpool transfer news

The Reds need a busy summer in the transfer market, even though things are going swimmingly under Arne Slot, following a lack of activity in recent windows. Adding a freshness to the squad is vital, especially with doubts surrounding the futures of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah.

According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool are prioritising a centre-back this summer, in order to add depth to a vital area of the pitch. Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez are never too far away from an injury, while long-term planning is required when it comes to finding a successor to Van Dijk even if he stays past this summer.

At the other end of the pitch, the Reds are reportedly in talks with Atalanta striker Ademola Lookman over a move to Anfield at the end of the season. The Nigerian has enjoyed another impressive season for the reigning Europa League holders, scoring 12 goals in Serie A, as well as netting five times in the Champions League.

In terms of potential outgoings at Liverpool away from Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk and Salah, Luis Diaz has also been linked with a move away this summer, with Chelsea and Barcelona among those who are thought to be in the mix to snap him up.

Liverpool "above all" for 17 y/o superstar

According to a new report in the Spanish press [via Sport Witness], Liverpool are interested in signing Barcelona superstar Lamine Yamal this summer, and are “above all” other Premier League clubs currently, with Paris Saint-Germain also keen and Real Madrid watching on but shut down in their interest immediately. The Reds are among the teams who “keep dreaming” of snapping up the 17-year-old at the end of the season.

Barca have no plans to sell him and instead would like to extend his contract once he turns 18, but face massive financial difficulties and may have no choice but to cash in on at least one or two of their prized assets this year. He would certainly solve those problems if they did have to sell, considering he is currently valued at €180m (about £150m) by Transfermarkt.

The idea of Yamal in a Liverpool shirt is mouthwatering, considering the remarkable strides the teenage winger has already made in his career, winning Euro 2024 with Spain last summer and already looking such a polished footballer.

The Barca superstar has 17 goal involvements (five goals and 12 assists) in La Liga this season and and 16 assists across all competitions, with even rival Real Madrid centre-back Antonio Rudiger speaking highly of him.

“What Lamine Yamal is doing is ridiculous, you have to give him credit. He plays for Barcelona at the age of 17, what he did at the EURO. I hope he stays healthy, he has a brilliant future. It’s pretty scary what he’s doing.”

It is difficult to see Barca even entertaining the idea of selling Yamal, no doubt wanting to keep him for the rest of his career, so the Reds will simply be hoping the FFP pressure the Catalans are under forces their hand.

Liverpool can save millions with academy grad who's like a £150m star

This Liverpool academy star could go the full mile if he lives up to his potential.

ByAngus Sinclair Feb 24, 2025

On paper, he is just about the perfect long-term replacement for Salah, given the fact he is left-footed and plays on the right wing, also delivering consistent end product, but Liverpool may have to look elsewhere for his successor.