All posts by z3u9t.icu

Arsenal have enjoyed a wonderful campaign which has given them an excellent chance to win their first Premier League title in 19 years.

Mikel Arteta’s men have lost just three league matches all season and with just ten games to go, they currently lead Manchester City by eight points.

This has been a few years in the making, with the board backing the Spaniard despite some poor results over the previous couple of years and combined with some important signings, it is perhaps no surprise to see the Gunners sitting pretty at the top of the table.

Indeed, Martin Odegaard, Oleksandr Zinchenko Thomas Partey and Gabriel Jesus have vastly improved the Arsenal side, and they could form the core of the side for the next few seasons.

Jesus, in particular, has been integral, and his performances have seen his value increase.

How much is Gabriel Jesus worth now?

Having joined from City in the summer for a £45m fee, which seemed steep, it was clear the club needed world-class forward if they were to challenge more major honours.

The Brazilian had impressed in Manchester during a five-year spell under Pep Guardiola. He scored 95 goals in just over 200 appearances, despite not always being first choice and having won four league titles, he would bring a winning mentality to the north Londoners.

He showcased his magic during the first few months of the season, scoring on five occasions and registering seven assists across all competitions, and it looked as though Arteta had finally found a forward who could not only provide a serious goal threat, but create countless opportunities for teammates.

He suffered a serious knee injury at the World Cup representing Brazil and was ruled out for around three months, yet he has made his return at precisely the right time as the title race looks set to go down to the final few weeks.

He was even dubbed “unreal” by Alex Batt during a Europa League display last year and his value has increased significantly following his impressive start to life in London.

Football Transfers now value the player at €68.1M (£60m) which is a decent increase on the £45m the club shelled out for him just ten months ago and if he manages to replicate his early season form over the next few weeks, this value could increase further.

At 25 years of age, he could become the cornerstone of the Arsenal frontline over the next few years and Arteta has certainly hit the jackpot with the former City star.

Liverpool have submitted a bid nearing £100m for Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham, according to agent Haydn Dodge, who recently spoke to CaughtOffside.

Will Liverpool sign Jude Bellingham this summer?

Bellingham is one of the most sought-after young talents in world football, with several of Europe's top clubs lining up to secure his signature this summer, although some recent reports have indicated that the Reds are leading the race.

Potential new Manchester United owner Sheikh Jassim is a "huge fan" of the 19-year-old, and is already believed to be plotting a move, while the likes of Manchester City, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid also cannot be discounted.

Liverpool being able to compete for the youngster's signature is likely to come down to whether they are able to finish in the top four, with the guarantee of Champions League football said to be a key factor in his choice of club. According to Dodge, who spoke to CaughtOffside, the Reds have already formalised their interest in the midfielder with a massive out-of-window bid.

The agent said: “It’s known that a bid [from Liverpool] just shy of £100m has been submitted for Jude Bellingham ahead of this summer’s transfer window.

“A revamp in the middle of the park is exactly what Liverpool, their fans and Jurgen Klopp need so it is not surprising to see them going all out for Bellingham.”

How much will Jude Bellingham cost?

It is exciting news that Liverpool appear to have made an approach for the Englishman, however he is likely to cost far more than £100m, with it recently being reported that Dortmund are going to stand firm in their valuation of €150m (£133m). As such, while it is a good statement of intent from the Merseyside club, their current offer will not be enough to win the race, particularly if the starlet continues his sensational form.

Hailed as "incredible" by Trent Alexander-Arnold, the central midfielder has established himself as a key player for England, making 24 caps for his country, while he has already hit double figures for goals in a Dortmund shirt this season.

In order to put themselves in a strong position to win the race for Bellingham, Klopp's side will now need to focus on finishing the season strongly, currently sitting seven points off the top four with two games in hand.

BBC Radio 5 Live pundit Alan Hutton has been left thrilled as Tottenham Hotspur reportedly line up a move for Brendan Rodgers.

What's the latest on Rodgers to Spurs?

In the last few days, multiple reports have claimed that Spurs could move for the Northern Irishman to replace Antonio Conte – coming after the Italian's mutually agreed Premier League departure last week. Indeed, Rodgers now joins the plethora of other managers currently being eyed by chairman Daniel Levy.

Mauricio Pochettino, Luis Enrique, Julian Nagelsmann and even Zinedine Zidane have also been linked with a move to north London as the quartet are out of work and readily available for hire. Free agents could be a huge pull for Levy given there are few obstacles standing in the way of a possible move.

There have even been murmurs of Graham Potter, recently sacked by Chelsea, potentially entering the fold when it comes to Tottenham's managerial search. Back to Rodgers, it appears Spurs have another unemployed tactician on their radar, with CBS journalist Ben Jacobs hinting they could move for the ex-Celtic manager.

Football Insider has also reported that Spurs are lining up a move for the 50-year-old, so it appears there is a chance he could end up succeeding Conte.

What has Hutton said on Rodgers?

Speaking to Football Insider, former Spurs defender and BBC pundit Hutton has given a thumbs-up to a potential Rodgers appointment.

The Scotsman explained:

“I think he would play a different brand of football from the managers they have had in the past. The managers have been set up to play very defensively, hit teams on the counter-attack and Brendan Rodgers doesn’t seem to want to play that way.

“Tottenham have got the squad to go and challenge. Not for first and second, but definitely for top four and certain trophies and European competitions. I think the fans would love a manager to come in like that and play a more attractive style of football. That is what they have been crying out for for a long time.

“Do I think Brendan Rodgers can come in and do that? Absolutely. I think he has shown that in the past that he is more than capable.“

Should Spurs turn to Rodgers?

Despite having lost his job at the King Power, we believe he could be a shrewd left-field option as a free agent, especially considering it wasn't too long ago he was spearheading a top-four charge at Leicester whilst winning the FA Cup.

The ex-Swansea manager achieved those feats with fairly limited resources compared to the likes of Man City and Liverpool at the time – something which Levy may well be taking into consideration.

Pep Guardiola is also a big fan of the coach, calling him 'top quality' despite the Foxes' woes.

Arsenal have now commenced talks over a new deal for winger Reiss Nelson as the league leaders look to fend off European suitors.

Who could leave Arsenal this summer?

Mikel Arteta's side are currently in pole position to clinch their first Premier League title in 20 years and things could not look rosier for the north Londoners at this present moment.

Eight points clear of closest rivals Manchester City, the prospect of silverware is a distinct one for supporters as Arteta shapes his team into real winners. Of course, given the quality and size of their squad now, some players have been forced to play more of a bit-part role.

The likes of Rob Holding and Emile Smith Rowe have been linked with moves away from the club, while Nelson's current deal is set to expire this summer as things stand.

The former England Under-21 international has been used sparingly overall, with a combination of injury problems and competition for places seriously hindering his level of game time.

Nelson has contributed effectively when called upon though, scoring a brace and assisting one other during Arsenal's 5-0 home win over Nottingham Forest late last year.

More recently, the 23-year-old notched a crucial goal and assist to help Arteta overcome Bournemouth 3-2 at the Emirates – resulting in his inclusion in every matchday squad since.

Now, as per reliable reporter Fabrizio Romano, Nelson is set to be rewarded with fresh terms – coming as his contract is slowly winding down and sides from Europe are eyeing a move.

The journalist explained (via Twitter):

"Understand negotiations are currently underway between Arsenal and Reiss Nelson representatives for a contract extension. Current deal expires in June. Arteta would be happy to keep Reiss, while more European clubs are showing interest in potential free transfer."

Should Arsenal keep Nelson?

The forward has arguably done what he's needed to do when given the nod by Arteta, and his contribution against Bournemouth may well prove crucial in Arsenal's hunt for the title.

Arteta seems in no doubt that he is an important player, recently stating to the media:

“I always saw the potential.

“The talent and the desire for him to do it, but he’s at a different level right now. I think emotionally, the experiences that he had helped him.

"He’s been training really good and it’s a good lesson for me and for the coaches that we need him and that he can be really important for the team."

Indeed, going by Arteta's comments, it appears Arsenal supporters could be seeing a lot more of the starlet if they can agree on fresh terms.

Leeds United look set to allow Adam Forshaw to leave the club at the end of the season, with the club viewing it as too risky to offer him an extension, Football Insider reports.

What’s the latest Leeds news on Forshaw?

Forshaw has struggled with injury over recent years, problems which have continued during the current campaign. The 31-year-old last played for the Whites on New Year’s Eve against Newcastle United in the Premier League and only just returned to the bench in last weekend’s 5-1 defeat to Crystal Palace.

According to Transfermarkt, the midfielder was the club’s most expensive signing since the 2001/02 season when he moved to Elland Road from Middlesbrough in 2018 in a deal worth €5.1m (£4.5m). He is out of contract in a matter of months, although Leeds have an option to extend that by a further year through to 2024. However, it doesn't look as if they will be triggering that clause.

Football Insider reporter Pete O’Rourke shared a story he’s heard from Elland Road regarding Forshaw in the last 48 hours. He revealed that the Whites, and by extension, director of football Victor Orta, look set to let the player go at the end of the current campaign.

The report adds how Leeds ‘view it as too much of a risk to offer him a new deal when there is so much doubt surrounding his availability’, with Forshaw set to become a free agent as a result.

The right decision by Radrizzani and Leeds?

Allowing Forshaw to move on appears to be the right decision, especially as he has hit double figures for league appearances just once in the past four seasons due to various short and long-term injury issues.

The player shares the same agency as loanee Weston McKennie, and reports have suggested that Leeds won’t be making the American's move permanent at the end of the season.

Therefore, the club could find themselves with a real shortage of senior central midfield options, with Marc Roca and Tyler Adams the only two who could be left on the books.

It remains to be seen as to what division Leeds will be playing in next season, with Javi Gracia looking to guide the club to safety, however, Forshaw and McKennie departing could present a first-team opportunity to teenagers Archie Gray and Darko Gyabi.

The former of the two recently signed a professional contract at Elland Road while the latter joined from Manchester City over the summer and has been in and around the senior squad, so two exits could benefit the youngsters.

Tottenham Hotspur's desperation for a trophy is longstanding. Having gone over a decade without now since their 2008 EFL Cup triumph, one would have to wade back into the previous century to find the last Lilywhites trophy after that.

This is a damning indication of just how consistently poor the club has been run, with a weak mentality having festered throughout those years of mediocrity.

Although Mauricio Pochettino threatened to propel them back to within England's elite, Daniel Levy was once again guilty of what seemed like self-sabotage as he dismissed the miracle-working Argentine despite a mere lull after years of steady growth and success.

What likely played a large role in the decision-making process that came to such a conclusion was the fact that the team were underperforming even after shattering their club-record fee the summer prior. Therefore, in a way, Tanguy Ndombele almost became a catalyst for his boss' exit.

Journalist Paul Brown even suggested: "I genuinely think, and I have done for a while, that Ndombele is one of the worst signings Spurs have ever made."

The £63m man has since lost his way in north London, certainly not aided by the constant arrivals within his role. Even during what has been a relatively successful loan spell this campaign, the Frenchman seems again unlikely to get a look in.

How has Tanguy Ndombele played whilst out on loan?

Just 91 appearances were deemed more than enough for Antonio Conte, who had been responsible for the two loans the 26-year-old had been essentially forced into. However, ironically pushing the tricky midfielder into an ideal situation, Ndombele has since shown his class in glimpses for title-chasing Napoli.

The Frenchman has at times been forced into a lesser role in their league campaign, but put in some crucial displays in a fine Champions League run to truly outline his class. In the biggest competition, he stepped up. This has led to an average Sofascore rating of 7.16, creating four big chances from just three starts, via Sofascore.

Luciano Spalletti is clearly a big fan of his too, as the Italian boss was quick to sing his praises: "Ndombele is a strong player, at the beginning I didn’t know him much, there was a doubt as to why Tottenham had let him leave. From what I saw, watching the Milan-Tottenham match, I would have kept him in the side.

“He’s someone I train willingly, he’s also a very sweet boy, physically strong. In the modernity of football, there is this physical strength which is important. He has strength, engine, technique, flashes in which he sees where the hole is. I like him."

With the maestro sure to command suitors all over Europe after recapturing some semblance of his old form, perhaps whoever the new manager might be can reconsider the place of Ndombele within the squad.

Does Tanguy Ndombele have a future at Spurs?

Whilst the vacancy within their dugout suggests everyone at the club will receive a fresh start, the constant cycle of new midfield purchases has seen the former Olympique Lyonnais man fall down the pecking order.

However, it was arguably the signing of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg that has truly scuppered the chances of the £200k-per-week star. Bought by Jose Mourinho the summer following Ndombele's arrival, the Danish defensive asset instantly became a mainstay in the engine room.

A solid and workmanlike asset, the ex-Southampton stopper very rarely puts a foot wrong without trying anything spectacular. His teammate, however, posed quite the antithesis.

In an attempt to always try something special, whether it be a skill or an unorthodox pass, the 5 foot 11 man can often surrender possession with ease. This was outlined in the fact that he lost possession eight times per match during that debut season in England, whilst ranking in the top 1% for midfielders across Europe in successful take-ons.

A maverick can be of use to many, but someone like Hojbjerg will seemingly always be preferred. He is safe and solid, with his 7.15 average Sofascore rating this season indicative of this.

The continued presence of the 27-year-old has already forced Ndombele out on two loans, and that seems set to continue with whoever might take over next at the club. With a deal also set to expire this summer, few are expecting a renewal at the eleventh hour.

A tough first couple of years in a new country has already seemingly resigned the fate of the Longjumeau-born magician, who is destined to see his potential unrealised all because coaches now favour efficiency over the ethereal.

Leeds United now have just five matches remaining in order to retain their Premier League status for a fourth successive season, but how will they get on between now and the final weekend?

Javi Gracia’s side have struggled in recent weeks, with things taking a downward turn ever since the interval against Crystal Palace earlier this month. The Whites conceded four times in the second half against the Eagles to lose 5-1 and fell to another heavy Elland Road defeat to Liverpool.

Since then, Leeds went to Fulham last weekend and lost 2-1 but did manage to stop the rot by picking up a point against Leicester City on Tuesday evening. It could have been so much better for the Whites, though, with only a late equaliser from Jamie Vardy earning the Foxes a share of the spoils.

Despite this, Leeds are still clear of the relegation zone and will be above the drop zone heading into this weekend’s trip to Bournemouth.

Here are Leeds’ five remaining fixtures – we've predicted how we think they will get on below…

Leeds fixtures 30 April: Bournemouth (a) 6 May: Man City (a) 13 May: Newcastle (h) 20 May: West Ham (a) 28 May: Tottenham (h) Bournemouth v Leeds

Leeds were involved in a seven-goal thriller with The Cherries back in November, with the Whites coming from 3-1 down in the second half to win 4-3.

Gary O'Neil’s side have picked up important wins over Fulham, Leicester and Tottenham recently, though, and a win over Leeds could possibly guarantee them another season of Premier League football after winning promotion last year.

Both sides have struggled defensively this season and have conceded 63 goals prior to Bournemouth’s midweek clash with Southampton, so there may well be goals for both sides in this must-win encounter for the visitors.

Many would argue this is do or die in Leeds’ season with a tough final four games, and after a more promising showing against Leicester, it could be the time Leeds pick up three crucial points.

Prediction: Bournemouth 1-2 Leeds

Man City v Leeds

A trip to the Etihad is next on the agenda for the Whites, with this fixture now moved to a 3pm kick-off on Saturday 6th May due to Man City progressing to the Champions League semi-finals.

Pep Guardiola may well decide to tinker with his squad with one eye on the trip to the Bernabeu, however, Leeds shipped seven here last season.

Leeds did win at the Etihad back in 2021 after a brace from Stuart Dallas, although that was under Marcelo Bielsa in a ninth-placed finish, and with boyhood Whites fan Erling Haaland in fine form, another resounding win for the hosts could be on the cards.

Prediction: Man City 4-0 Leeds

Leeds v Newcastle

Leeds' penultimate home game of the season is against high-flying Newcastle United, who are pushing to achieve Champions League qualification under Eddie Howe.

The Whites managed to keep a rare clean sheet in the reverse meeting back on New Year's Eve, with Leeds only keeping two further clean sheets in 21 games since then.

The Magpies are starting to hit top form after an eye-catching 6-1 win over Tottenham on the weekend, and on the road, they are the third-best side in the league. It could be a nervy occasion with both sides having so much to play for, but it could be a bridge too far for Leeds.

Prediction: Leeds 1-2 Newcastle

West Ham v Leeds

David Moyes has got things back on track for the Hammers in recent weeks, defeating Fulham and Bournemouth and drawing with league leaders Arsenal. Should they continue to pick up points, their Premier League status will more than likely be secured ahead of hosting Leeds on the penultimate weekend.

West Ham could also still be in the Europa Conference League as well, should things go to plan in the semi-final against AZ Alkmaar. The return leg in the Netherlands is actually just three days before Leeds visit the London Stadium, so there could be scope for Leeds to grind out another point in their battle to avoid the drop against a potentially tiring Hammers side, especially after winning 3-2 in this fixture last season.

Prediction: West Ham 1-1 Leeds

Leeds v Tottenham

There could be plenty to play for on the final day for both Leeds and Spurs, with European qualification possibly on the line for Tottenham, now under the leadership of Ryan Mason.

Mason was actually the Tottenham manager the last time Leeds beat Spurs back in 2021, so it could be a nervy affair in West Yorkshire. The final weekend always tends to throw up surprises, and Leeds could have eyes on scores elsewhere, providing they aren't safe before. The Whites narrowly lost the reverse fixture 4-3, and who knows, a point on the final day to finish on a predicted 35 points could just be enough to survive.

Prediction: Leeds 1-1 Tottenham

Predicted run-in points: 5/15 Predicted total points: 35

Leeds United face an uphill task to stay in the Premier League, and new manager Sam Allardyce will surely have to improve the defence if he is going to keep the Yorkshire outfit in the Premier League.

What changes must Allardyce make to Leeds' defence?

The 4-1 defeat against Bournemouth ensured that Leeds now boast the worst defensive record in the division, with a remarkable 67 goals shipped in the top flight, which has also included heavy defeats against Liverpool and Crystal Palace in recent weeks.

Fingers have naturally been pointed at both the goalkeeper and the defence after Leeds bested their own record of goals conceded in a calendar month, and huge changes must be made by Allardyce if he wants to avoid similarly disappointing defeats against the high-flying Manchester City and Newcastle United in their next two games.

Despite the number of goals conceded, three of Leeds' defensive options rank in their top six players this season according to WhoScored, with Pascal Struijk, Max Wober and Liam Cooper all performing to a fairly consistent level in the Premier League.

Should Robin Koch be dropped by Leeds?

This begs the question therefore of why Robin Koch has been the main man for Leeds at centre-back so far this term, with the 26-year-old featuring in 33/34 Premier League games, with a shocking WhoScored average rating of 6.52.

Signed from Freiburg in 2020, the Germany international has struggled throughout his time at Elland Road, failing to average above a 6.6 rating from WhoScored in any of his seasons in the Premier League.

Speaking on a Leeds United Live Facebook stream following a 5-1 defeat against Manchester United in 2021, Beren Cross was less than complimentary of Koch's performance.

He said:

“Koch and Struijk today, not good enough at all, for me. I think I gave them 3s in the ratings.

“I mean, Fernandes almost retired Robin Koch, it was just horrible to watch, at times, because he just could not get a handle of him."

As a former defender, Allardyce will surely appreciate the need to have his best-performing centre-backs on the pitch for the final four games, and the stats certainly suggest that the £40k-per-week liability shouldn't be anywhere near the starting side.

He ranks 14th for tackles and sixth for interceptions per game in Leeds' squad, while his pass success rate of 77.6% is worrying considering he completes the second-most passes per game at Elland Road, which suggests that he often has the ball but doesn't know how to effectively use it.

Therefore, with defensive security a must for the tough upcoming fixtures, Allardyce must surely consider finally dropping Koch from the starting team.

Chelsea forgotten man could return to Stamford Bridge and be a key asset next season under Mauricio Pochettino, according to journalist Dean Jones.

What's the latest news involving Romelu Lukaku and Mauricio Pochettino?

As per The Telegraph, Lukaku could be offered a shock chance to revive his career at Stamford Bridge by Pochettino and will be involved in discussions with Chelsea at the end of this term to determine his next steps.

The Belgium international joined Chelsea for £97.5 million back in 2021 from Inter Milan; however, he endured an indifferent spell in front of goal in west London that yielded just 15 goals in 44 appearances, as per Transfermarkt, before completing a loan switch back to Inter Milan at the beginning of this campaign.

Football Italia via Football London report that Inter Milan CEO Guiseppi Marotta has stated that Lukaku will indeed return to Chelsea when his loan agreement at the San Siro comes to an end, stating: "Lukaku is in love with this club and city, so these are important elements to consider, but the player does not belong to us. He is on loan, he will return to Chelsea on June 30 and we will all evaluate the situation together. It is important to note that he is a great professional, he has a great sense of belonging and these are key elements that go alongside the technical and sporting considerations."

Rumoured incoming boss Pochettino could now have a decision to make if he does assume the managerial vacancy at Chelsea. The Argentinian coach is said to be in 'advanced talks' over taking over at the Blues, as per BBC Sport.

Speaking to Football FanCast, journalist Jones reckons that Lukaku could be the man to guarantee a regular flow of goals for Chelsea next campaign under Pochettino, similar to the service Harry Kane provided the former Paris Saint-Germain manager when both were at Tottenham Hotspur.

Jones told FFC: "The only outfield player used more than Kane was Christian Eriksen but the Tottenham No.9 was far and away the most productive goal scorer as he hit the net 169 times in Poch’s time at the club.

"He has had two failed attempts at being Chelsea’s main striker and if that third and final chance is ever to come, the time is now. If not there is only one solution: Bid for Kane!"

Could Romelo Lukaku get an unexpected second chance at Chelsea?

Realistically, suppose Chelsea can't find a suitable permanent destination for Lukaku elsewhere. In that case, it may just be worth giving him a chance to show if he can be the focal point in attack desperately needed at Stamford Bridge.

In 2022/23, the Belgian has made 28 appearances for Inter Milan in all competitions, scoring nine goals and claiming five assists, as per Transfermarkt.

FBRef also note that Lukaku has successfully carried out 59 shot-creating actions this term, demonstrating his ability to lead the line effectively and provide regular opportunities due to his hold-up play.

Conversely, Chelsea may have designs on entering the transfer market to secure a new forward. 90min claim that Pochettino could target Tottenham talisman Kane to counter the Blues' lack of a natural striker, in a move that could grab worldwide attention if a deal were to materialise.

Manchester United have come the closest to matching the valuation for Jude Bellingham according to reports from Italy via Sport Witness, with the Red Devils offering up to 120 million Euros (£104m) for the player.

What is the latest transfer news surrounding Jude Bellingham and Man United?

The demand for the midfielder has been high this season, with several sides all circling around the player in a desperate bid to try and sign him. Man City and Real Madrid look to be in the driving seat currently, although the Premier League leaders have yet to submit a bid for the Borussia Dortmund man according to reports.

Liverpool were also seen as one of the leading pack in the race for his signature, only for the club to then pull out of a potential deal for Bellingham. That came down to a lack of funds, with the Reds identifying that they would rather spread their money amongst several players rather than just splashing it on one.

Man United are no strangers to being linked with the England international too, with the club reportedly prepared to offer the money to lure the midfielder to Old Trafford since March.

Now, a fresh report has revealed that the Red Devils have indeed put their money where their mouth is and launched a huge bid to sign Bellingham. According to the Italian media via Sport Witness, United have put an offer on the table worth £104m and whilst it is one of the biggest offers Dortmund have recieved, the player seemingly would prefer Real Madrid and the bid may prove to be fruitless.

Even with such a large offer then, the player would rather join up with the La Liga giants – meaning they could still miss out on signing the midfielder.

Should Man United up their offer for Jude Bellingham?

Any team would be lucky to add the Borussia Dortmund man to their ranks this summer, with the England international impressing on both the club and international stages. It's hard to believe he is just 19-years-old when you take a look at his Bundesliga record this campaign – seven goals and four assists in 29 appearances and all from the centre of the field.

He's been equally as outstanding for his country, with WhoScored giving him a 7.58 rating during England's World Cup campaign. That score ranked him within the top ten players of the entire tournament based on his match rating.

Even current and former professionals are quick to praise the player, with Pep Guardiola even stating that Bellingham is "special" in terms of his mentality and adding that his "whole package" is "really good."

The hype surrounding the youngster is real then – and if United do land the midfielder this summer, it would be a real coup.