All posts by z3u9t.icu

Manchester United watched on as Christian Eriksen and Rasmus Hojlund's Denmark crashed out of Euro 2024 against hosts Germany on Saturday evening, with the Red Devils' 21-year-old striker unable to find the back of the net across his four appearances.

ITV pundits Roy Keane and Ian Wright were particularly scathing in their post-match comments directed at Hojlund after Germany secured a 2-0 victory to advance to the quarter-finals, with Wright noting after Hojlund squandered a glorious chance: "You talk about a player improving and learning new things but that is something you should know right from the start."

Hojlund is a talented player, signed to Man United from Atalanta for £72m last summer after scoring ten goals from 34 matches in Italy. Still only 21, the Dane has it all to come. Ruben Selles, who has previously worked with Hojlund, once hailed him a "mentality monster", with the quality and determination to succeed at the highest level.

Often isolated and carrying the hulking weight of a club struggling to perform last season, Hojlund needs support. He needs a strike partner with the skills to boost his own. Fabrizio Romano might know a guy.

Man Utd transfer news

Several days ago, Romano has provided an update – via GIVEMESPORT – on Manchester United's pursuit of Joshua Zirkzee, revealing that Erik ten Hag and Co are aware of AC Milan's falter in their bid for the Bologna striker.

Now, Sky Sports are claiming that United are currently holding positive talks with Zirkzee's representatives, though with Arsenal and Juventus also interested they might need to ramp up the gas.

United are desperate to sign a forward to provide competition to and complement Hojlund at No. 9, and the €40m (£34m) star, with his dynamic skill set and creative style, could be the dream addition.

Joshua Zirkzee's 23/24 season in numbers

Zirkzee signed for Bologna from Bayern Munich for a reported fee of €8.5m (roughly £7m) back in 2022, having shown glimpses of prodigious talent in Bavaria but suffered the misfortune of being an aspiring talent among many at one of the globe's most prestigious footballing institutions.

His first season in Serie A didn't quite go to plan, only finding a starting berth on five occasions due to issues settling in and injuries. But the 23-year-old undoubtedly bloomed into life under Thiago Motta's leadership last term, instrumental in Bologna's surprise Champions League qualification.

Matches played

19

34

Matches started

5

32

Goals

2

11

Assists

2

5

Big chances missed

4

4

Big chances created

2

11

Pass completion

78%

78%

Key passes per game

0.8

1.3

Dribbles per game

0.8

1.5

Recoveries per game

2.1

3.0

Duels won per game

2.2

4.1

It's quite remarkable how Zirkzee raised his game across almost every metric in the Italian top flight last term, and while his haul of 11 goals from 34 matches is nothing special – Hojlund, for example, bagged 10 Premier League goals from 25 starts – he only missed four big chances.

Four big chances missed, 11 goals scored. Not bad. The £19k-per-week star has the mark of a clinical forward and with the likes of Bruno Fernandes, who averaged a stunning 3.3 key passes per Premier League match last season, behind him, there's every chance that he will raise that bar and then some.

Imagine Joshua Zirkzee & Rasmus Hojlund

Analyst Ben Mattinson said that Zirkzee is "6'4" but he turns like he's 5'9", loves a Cruyff turn", with the Dutchman's breezy gait and elite spatial awareness allowing him to play an important, multi-talented role for his side.

Shot-creating actions

3.71

Top 21%

Pass completion

77.4%

Top 18%

Progressive passes

2.81

Top 17%

Successful take-ons

1.70

Top 11%

Ball recoveries

3.36

Top 18%

Tackles

1.04

Top 19%

Clearances

1.17

Top 20%

While Zirkzee might not be a player who will hit the giddying goal tallies of Erling Haaland and Harry Kane, he's endowed with a kind of sweeping style that sees those around him flourish.

He might not have the goalscoring numbers of Kane, yes, but Zirkzee cuts a similar figure, with Mattinson even remarking that the Netherlands native is "stylistically so similar" to the Three Lions captain.

Zirkzee, then, could be the perfect man to unlock Hojlund, send him to the next level. The Kobenhavn-born striker was isolated at the Theatre of Dreams last season as Ten Hag's system failed to inspire, taking just 1.3 shots per game across the campaign.

Moreover, Man United were left red-faced after creating just 60 big chances in the Premier League, ranking them joint-13th at the end, alongside Bournemouth and behind Everton.

That statistic is clearly at variance with Fernandes' playmaking prowess noted earlier, but Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Co will hope that the 2023/24 campaign was something of an anomaly, with Ten Hag's United creating the third-most big chances in the division (84) the season before.

Hojlund, of course, did not ply his trade in Greater Manchester at that point, but there's no question that having scored 16 goals from 43 matches in all competitions, despite being recorded to have received the fewest passers of any main Premier League centre-forward back in December, emphasising the gravity of his side's issues.

His brilliant purple patch throughout the winter months highlighted the quality that United paid for, but he still shockingly ranks among the bottom 5% of centre-forwards across Europe over the past year for shots taken per 90. That is staggering, but a profile such as Zirkzee's could temper the issue considerably.

Shocking injury issues and devastating nosedives in form led to a bitter campaign that, albeit, was saved with triumph in the FA Cup, but now, extensive improvements must be displayed, and Zirkzee could be the man to ensure such success.

His silky-smooth touch and natural-born creativity set him in good stead to succeed on English shores, serving as a conduit of sorts to connect the midfield and the attack, where Hojlund will linger as the spearhead.

Zirkzee, indeed, is experienced in playing off the centre-forward in a kind of supplementary role, fostering his playmaking, interconnecting style of play and enhancing the overall fluency of his squad.

Therefore, with Hojlund desperate to find a degree of service to fit his exciting potential as a young striker, Zirkzee could be the perfect man for the job. After all, he's even been described as a "special" player by Motta, with a unique approach that would pay dividends for Old Trafford and its Man United team.

He wants to join: Man Utd pursuing £100k-p/w star who'd unlock Mainoo

He seems likely to leave this summer

ByJoe Nuttall Jun 29, 2024

It's been a summer of change at Ibrox, but Rangers could now suffer their biggest blow yet with reports indicating that one of Philippe Clement's best players have struck an agreement elsewhere.

Rangers transfer news

It's been a ruthless few months from Clement, who showed the likes of John Lundstram, Ryan Jack and Borna Barisic the door, before welcoming a plethora of fresh faces, which includes the arrival of Jefte, Connor Barron and Hamza Igamane. In total, the Gers have sealed six deals whilst watching on as a further six departed.

Their most recent signing, Igamane told Rangers' official website: “I am really proud to join Rangers and I can’t wait to get started with my teammates. It is a huge club, with a loyal fanbase and a lot of history. I am excited for my future here and looking forward to being a part of this club.”

As Igamane looks to settle in Scotland, however, he may be forced to do so without one of Rangers' best players if recent reports are anything to go by. According to Turkish reporter Yagiz Sabuncuoglu, via Ibrox Chat, James Tavernier has reached an agreement with Trabzonspor over a two-year contract, although Rangers remain in negotiations over a fee, with the two clubs still €1m (£850k) apart in their valuations.

Rangers struck gold on GVB signing who's worth more than Barron

Philippe Clement has a player in his squad who he could cash in on this summer for a decent profit

ByRoss Kilvington Jul 18, 2024

It would certainly fit Rangers' trend of ruthlessness by selling Tavernier but, ultimately, losing their club captain would be far from ideal with the Scottish Premiership season fast-approaching. Given that Clement has already swapped so much experience for youthful exuberance this summer too, questions must be asked whether he can afford to lose his veteran right-back, with the skipper set to take a raise on his current £30,000-a-week wages.

Rangers must keep "amazing" Tavernier

There's no doubt that Tavernier is a modern-day Rangers legend. Those at Ibrox may not see another right-back capable of his goal involvements every season and would certainly struggle to replace his leadership. Even at 32 years old, he remains an important part of Clement's side and a player who, now more than ever, the Gers must keep hold of amid a transitional period in Glasgow.

Appearances

33

Goals

17

Assists

8

Clement is certainly unlikely to be pleased if Tavernier is allowed to leave this summer, having praised his captain in abundance last season. The Belgian said via STV News after the right-back broke the British goal-scoring record for defenders: “It’s an amazing achievement, especially as he still has a couple of years to go so he can only make this record bigger and bigger.

“If you speak about the full history of football then you cannot imagine how many good defenders and how many defenders with good attacking qualities who have played the game. To be there on top – it’s an amazing achievement and we’re all proud of him. I said it in the dressing room also after the game."

In search of their fifth signing of the summer transfer window, Nottingham Forest have reportedly reignited their interest in a previous target who's now allowed to leave his current club.

Nottingham Forest transfer news

So far, it's been a fairly productive summer at the City Ground. Elliot Anderson, Marko Stamenic, Eric da Silva Moreira and, most recently, Carlos Miguel have all arrived to hand Nuno Espirito Santo quite the boost ahead of next season. Meanwhile, Forest avoided any profit and sustainability sanctions through the sales of Orel Mangala and Moussa Niakhate.

Their most recent arrival couldn't hide his delight, telling Forest's official website: "I'm really happy and honoured to represent this club. Just seeing the stadium and feeling the energy within it, I can't wait to be on the pitch to help Nottingham Forest win. My main objective is to become an important member of this team, a giant club in the history of football. I want a place in the museum like the others!"

Nottingham Forest eyeing move for "amazing" £7m ace after confirming Miguel

Forest are reportedly looking to land their fifth signing of the summer.

ByTom Cunningham Jul 10, 2024

Forest's summer could yet get even better too. According to Jornal de Noticias, Nottingham Forest have reignited their interest in Florentino Luis and Benfica are now open to selling the midfielder in a deal worth €30m (£25m) this summer. The Midlands club aren't alone in their interest, however, with both Everton and Leicester City also reportedly eyeing moves to sign the 24-year-old.

Those at the City Ground reportedly saw a bid rejected for Luis back in 2023, but should be better placed to launch a move this summer due to Benfica's desire to raise funds through sales this summer. A player who is entering the prime years of his career, Luis could finally make his way to the City Ground.

"Superb" Luis could partner Danilo

Nuno turned to a variety of systems at Forest last season, alternating between a back five and a back four, but the arrival of another defensive midfielder in Luis should help the former Wolverhampton Wanderers boss settle on one consistent approach. The Benfica man, for just £25m, could form an ideal partnership with Danilo at the base of Forest's midfield and, in-turn, unlock the likes of Anderson and Morgan Gibbs-White even further.

Progressive Carries

11

22

Progressive Passes

142

83

Tackles Won

45

18

Ball Recoveries

123

118

What could be key is the balance that Luis and Danilo should offer each other if the former completes a move this summer, with his ability to progress the ball through his passing range matched with the current Forest midfielder's ability to do so by driving with the ball.

Whilst things haven't followed the plan that many would have had in mind at Benfica, Luis is still a player with plenty of potential and plenty to offer. Previously described as "superb" by Football Talent Scout's Jacek Kulig, Forest would be completing yet another solid piece of business.

Liverpool have not dipped their toes into the summer market yet, but FSG are stirring the transfer pot and dealings are expected to be done before the deadline in just over one month.

Anfield's staunch support has long craved an exciting new addition at the base of the midfield, and given that Marseille failed with a £12m attempt to sign Wataru Endo several weeks ago, there's a suggestion that the Reds are hoping to sign a brand-new anchorman.

This is, of course, conjecture, but Michael Edwards and Co like to keep a lid on rumours over on Merseyside, surreptitiously going about their work. The fact that sources such as The Athletic have released the information now could mean that plans are in the pipeline to sign an exciting upgrade.

Liverpool transfer news

One player who Liverpool might look to sign is none other than Joshua Kimmich, with the experienced Germany international entering the final year of his contract with Bayern Munich.

Indeed, according to Spanish outlet Sport at the start of July, Liverpool are the favourites of the Premier League outfits eyeing the dynamo's signature, with Bayern considering a nominal €30m (£25m) sale.

Paris Saint-Germain have also displayed a fierce interest in recent months, but with their pursuit of Joao Neves coming to a successful head, Arne Slot's side might be confident in presenting a convincing package that would see Kimmich arrive as the star man at No. 6.

What Joshua Kimmich would bring to Liverpool

Kimmich, aged 29, is one of Europe's highest-profile midfielders, having enjoyed an illustrious career at the Allianz Arena. Now approaching the later phase of his career, he is eager to try his hand on foreign turf, and Liverpool could present the perfect project over in the Premier League.

It goes without saying that Kimmich, described as "world-class" by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, would bring a superior technical skillset to Anfield's midfield than that of Endo, but here's an illustration anyway.

Matches played

28

29

Matches started

27

20

Goals

1

1

Assists

6

0

Pass completion

91%

88%

Touches per game

90.3

54.4

Tackles per game

1.6

1.7

Key passes per game

2.6

0.6

Recoveries per game

5.0

3.7

Dribbles per game

0.4 (45%)

0.3 (67%)

Ground duels won per game

2.8 (60%)

2.9 (41%)

The Japan international, 31, was signed from Stuttgart for just £16m last summer after the Reds fumbled deals to sign both Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo, both now Chelsea players. Still, he was instrumental in winning the Carabao Cup and guiding Jurgen Klopp's outfit to a top-three finish.

Industrious and combative, he did lack in mobility and technical acumen, only winning 41% of his ground duels too. It's often foolish to read too much into pre-season affairs, but Endo did not pass his first test under Slot's wing with flying colours in any case.

Liverpool defeated Real Betis 1-0 in Pittsburgh at the weekend, with the Liverpool Echo's Paul Gorst handing him a 4/10 match rating after a poor effort, writing: 'Looked nervous in possession and gave it away in a couple of dangerous areas.'

Given the ball-focused nature of Slot's brand, this is a decided issue for the Reds heading into August. Well, how about launching a bid to sign Kimmich? He's not quite the 22-year-old prodigy that FSG love to sign and place in Liverpool's lap to mould and guide into a first-rate phenomenon, but the German would offer several years of service, dovetailing into the system besides.

As per FBref, Kimmich ranks among the top 2% of midfielders across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for passes attempted, the top 3% for progressive passes, the top 5% for shot-creating actions and the top 8% for assists per 90.

When considering the fast-moving and enterprising type of passing play that Liverpool's new head coach seeks to play, Endo's just not going to offer the kind of metronomic fluency to whir the machine into life, at its maximum.

Kimmich is far more rounded, with a variegated range of passing, greater athletic ability and a steelier defensive game. For just £25m, as has been mooted, Liverpool have simply got to grasp the unique market opportunity for one of Europe's elite, and then brutally ditch Endo as a consequence.

Liverpool learn conditions for £50m titan who'd be perfect for Trent

This player has been identified as a top target for the Reds this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 27, 2024

Everton boss Sean Dyche has a huge task on his hands between now and the end of the transfer window, trying to replace Belgian midfielder Amadou Onana.

The 22-year-old was subject to huge interest all summer, but completed a £50m move to Aston Villa a couple of weeks ago – a deal that was completed to boost the Toffees’ PSR standing.

His presence will be greatly missed in the middle of the park, with Dyche and the Everton hierarchy needing to find a suitable replacement for the former Lille talent.

Various players from all over Europe have been linked with a move to Goodison Park, but until now the only central midfielder to arrive on Merseyside is youngster Tim Iroegbunam.

There are still 21 days left in the window, but the club may be edging closer to agreeing a deal to sign one talent who could reignite his career under Dyche during 2024/25.

Everton want £150k-p/w talent this summer

According to GIVEMESPORT, Everton are exploring a deal to sign Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips on loan this summer.

The 28-year-old, who earns £150k-per-week, as per Capology, has endured a tricky last couple of years, making just 41 appearances in three seasons after his £45m transfer back in the summer of 2022.

He’s since been sent on loan to West Ham United during the previous campaign, making just ten appearances, which included a red card in the 2-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest.

The report states that the one-time England international could be sold by Pep Guardiola’s side this window, but the Toffees are only interested in a potential loan deal after his recent lack of form.

Dyche could potentially allow Phillips to return to his former heights, whilst proving to be a better addition than one talent who’s also been touted with a move to Merseyside this summer.

Why Phillips would be a better signing than Richardson for Everton

In recent days, Everton had been named as one of multiple Premier League sides in the race to sign Reims’ Moroccan midfielder Amir Richardson after his impressive form at the Olympic Games.

It was claimed that a bid in the region of £10m could’ve seen the Toffees win the race for his services, but journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed on Thursday that the French side had agreed a deal with Fiorentina for Richardson, with the Toffees seemingly missing out on the 22-year-old.

However, despite the disappointment, they’ve been handed a great opportunity to sign Phillips, who produced some impressive figures despite his failed loan stint at the London Stadium last season.

The “fabulous” midfielder, as described by former England boss Gareth Southgate, averaged 20 more passes per 90 than Richardson last season, at a 3% higher completion rate – showcasing how comfortable he is on the ball, something which could be useful for the Toffees as they look to switch to a more possession-based system.

Games played

20

28

Passes attempted

63

43

Pass accuracy

85%

82%

Progressive passes

5.9

4.8

Tackles won

2.8

2.2

Aerials won

1.8

1.1

Onana’s departure has highlighted the need for a natural ball-winner, with Phillips the perfect man to fill that void, winning an average of 2.8 tackles per 90 – a figure that Richardson simply couldn’t get near.

Dyche has assembled a squad of aerial dominators and whilst Phillips isn’t the tallest of midfielders, he still managed to win more aerials per 90 than the Moroccan last season, making a great fit in and out of possession for Everton.

This season is a huge one for Everton as they aim to pull further clear of a relegation battle and look to cement themselves as a consistent mid-table Premier League side once again.

Landing a player once described as the "best modern midfielder" by ex-England boss Fabio Capello during the Three Lions Euro 2020 run would certainly help that aim.

The Man City man may have endured a tricky couple of years in the North West, but he still possesses huge quality that could allow the club to push on from the excellent end to the previous campaign.

Forget Broja: Everton pursuing "outrageous" star who's just like Gordon

Dyche is still looking to bolster his side with just a week to go until the season commences.

ByEthan Lamb Aug 8, 2024

Arsenal chiefs are confident they'll sign a £55 million player soon, coming after he gave his green-light to join the north Londoners this summer.

Arsenal chase third summer signing as Premier League season nears

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta will be keen for Arsenal to seal their third summer signing of the window quickly, as the new Premier League season kicks off in just a matter of days.

Edu is a long-time fan of £30m striker as Arsenal eye Nketiah replacement

The Englishman could be joining Marseille this summer.

ByEmilio Galantini Aug 10, 2024

After missing out on the 2022/2023 crown to arch rivals Man City, Arsenal pushed them to the very final day last season and threatened to usurp Pep Guardiola's side, but they fell just short for the second successive season.

This weekend, Arteta will be looking to make the best possible start to the new campaign, as the Spaniard attempts to make it third-time-lucky and beat City in what could be another hotly-contested title race.

Team

Date

Wolves (home)

August 17

Aston Villa (away)

August 24

Brighton (home)

August 31

Tottenham (away)

September 15

Man City (away)

September 22

The summer transfer window hands Arsenal an opportunity to strengthen in key areas and raise Arteta's chances of clinching Arsenal their first Premier League title in over two decades, with sporting director Edu Gaspar already bringing in Italy international defender Riccardo Calafiori whilst signing goalkeeper David Raya on a permanent deal.

However, apart from those two additions, Arsenal haven't exactly been busy – despite some claims before the window opened that Edu was ready to break Arsenal's summer transfer record with several new additions.

It is believed the north Londoners are still after both a new forward and midfielder before deadline day on August 30. Indeed, Arsenal have discussed the possibility of signing striker Joao Pedro from Brighton, while reports still surround Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino.

The latter has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium in the last three weeks. Merino's contract is set to expire next summer, meaning he could leave Sociedad for free, but the player himself is very eager to leave now and join Arsenal.

"The problem for Real Sociedad is that Merino is not extending his contract, at least as of today," said Fabrizio Romano.

"His desire is to go to Arsenal, he’s only waiting for Arsenal, and so I don’t think Zubimendi future will impact Merino. This is the feeling also at Real Sociedad they have, because they would face the risk to lose the player on a free … and that would be a big problem for a club like Real Sociedad.”

Arsenal chiefs confident they will sign Mikel Merino soon

While the 28-year-old's contract includes a £55 million release clause, the running time left on it means Edu and co can seal a deal for much less.

Football Insider and journalist Pete O'Rourke have shared an update on the lengthy transfer saga, claiming Arsenal chiefs are confident they'll sign Merino soon as talks remain ongoing over a deal for the Spain international.

He's given his green light to the move, as echoed by Romano, so it is now down to the clubs to find middle ground on payment structure and terms. The former Newcastle star impressed at Euro 2024 and at club level last season, scoring eight goals and registering five assists in 45 total appearances.

Noni Madueke has staked his claim for a regular starting role under Enzo Maresca in recent weeks, starring in Chelsea’s mammoth victory over Wolves last weekend.

The 22-year-old registered a second-half hat-trick in the 6-2 win, producing his best display for the Blues since his move from PSV Eindhoven back in January 2023.

It comes just weeks after he was strongly touted with a move to join fellow Premier League side Newcastle United, with a deal reportedly going as far as the winger agreeing personal terms with the Magpies.

After his sensational performance, it’s highly unlikely that the Englishman will depart Stamford Bridge before Friday’s deadline, showcasing he still has the ability to be a key first-team member despite his lack of opportunities last season.

However, Madueke could be joined in West London by a plethora of players, with the Blues still working tirelessly to make new additions before the closure of the window.

Chelsea’s pursuit of Jadon Sancho

It’s safe to say Raheem Sterling’s time at Chelsea has been a disaster, with the former England international failing to justify his £50m fee that saw him join the club from Manchester City.

The 29-year-old, who is the club’s highest earner on a staggering £325k-per-week as per Capology, has been left out of Maresca’s Premier League squad for the 2024/25 campaign, signalling the end of his time in West London.

He’s previously been linked with a move to join Newcastle, but recent reports claim he could be involved in a potential swap deal that could see Jadon Sancho join the Blues from Manchester United.

The former Borussia Dortmund star spent the second half of last season back on loan at the Bundesliga side, but despite fixing his relationship with Erik ten Hag, he looks set for his own exit before the transfer deadline.

Sancho cost the Red Devils £73m back in 2021, but after just 12 goals in 82 appearances, he could be set to swap Old Trafford for Stamford Bridge.

However, given his lack of impact in Manchester, the Blues would be best to steer clear of any deal for the 24-year-old, potentially turning their attention to another player they’ve targeted in the past.

Why Chelsea should move for Bakayoko instead of Sancho

In previous months, the Blues have been linked with a move to repeat their Madueke capture with the signing of PSV’s Belgian winger Johan Bakayoko, after the youngster set the Eredivisie alight last season.

The 21-year-old registered 21 combined goals and assists in his 33 league appearances during 2023/24, prompting interest from Chelsea – with a £35m fee touted for his services.

He would be a much more valuable addition than Sancho, with Bakayoko blowing the Englishman out of the water in numerous key attacking aspects last season.

The “dangerous” forward, as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, completed more progressive carries per 90, whilst achieving a higher take-on success rate – showcasing his ability to take the ball into attacking areas and beating the opposition.

Games played

33

17

Goals + assists

21

4

Progressive carries

7.1

6.2

Shots taken

3.5

0.8

Take-on success

53%

51%

Shots on target

1.2

0.4

Pass accuracy

82%

81%

He was also more of a goal threat than the United man, averaging over four times the amount of shots per 90, whilst averaging three times the number of efforts on target – potentially providing Maresca with added firepower in the final third.

Whilst a deal for Sancho would potentially see the club finally shift Sterling off the books, a move for Bakayoko would undoubtedly hand the club more quality in attacking areas.

After such erratic dealings in the market, it’s crucial the club identify the right players to take the club back to the heights they once achieved, with the Belgian having all of the qualities to succeed in the Premier League.

Not only would it allow the club to repeat the successful capture of Madueke, but the pair could also potentially form an excellent partnership at Stamford Bridge and lead Maresca's hunt for a top-four finish this season.

Madueke would love him: Chelsea looking at bargain Osimhen alternative

The Blues would welcome this talented forward instead of Osimhen…

1 ByAngus Sinclair Aug 26, 2024

Arsenal could pursue a deadline day bid to sign one £40 million striker, with Edu Gaspar and the recruitment team still active in the market before the cut-off at 11pm.

Arsenal scouring market for new forward after Neto deal

An Arsenal deal has been agreed to sign Bournemouth keeper Neto, who will join the north Londoners on a season-long loan, but it is believed Mikel Arteta could see another outfielder or two come in as well.

Arsenal hold talks with £60 million striker as Edu plots deadline day bid

The north Londoners could be active today.

3 ByEmilio Galantini Aug 30, 2024

Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman has been heavily linked in the last 24-48 hours, as has former Man City star Raheem Sterling, who is currently looking for a last-minute way out of Stamford Bridge before the clock runs out.

Arsenal have been offered the chance to sign Sterling, according to some reports, with Arteta and Edu scouring the market for another forward option who can provide competition for the likes of Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard and Bukayo Saka out-wide.

This comes after their latest confirmed outfield deal was announced earlier this week, coming in the form of a £32 million deal to sign Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.

Appearances

247

Goals

27

Assists

30

Yellow cards

56

Red cards

2

Minutes played

19,449

Transfermarkt

There are many rumours surrounding Sterling and a potential last minute switch to the Emirates today, which would surely come as one of the most headline-grabbing transfers of the window, if it indeed comes to fruition.

Alongside Sterling, sporadic reports suggest a new striker may not be ruled out either, with Arsenal linked to bringing in a number nine all window.

Arsenal could pursue deadline day bid to sign Calvert-Lewin

According to Football Transfers today, Arsenal have Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin on their radar as an option heading into the afternoon.

The Englishman, who is also attracting late interest from Chelsea, could leave Goodison Park before the deadline – with a move away from Merseyside currently seen as a possibility.

Arsenal could apparently pursue a bid for Calvert-Lewin before 11pm, after previous claims that Everton would demand around £40 million. The 27-year-old's injury record is a cause for concern, but when fit and available, there is little doubt he'd be an asset for any top English side.

“Dominic is a high level striker, an England striker, a Premier League regular goalscorer with all his natural attributes that we see in terms of the types of goals that he can score, his strengths, his speed, his aerial ability,” said Chelsea legend Lampard on Calvert-Lewin in 2022.

“You have to try and play to the best strengths of that without a doubt and I think also, Dominic is a forward that can connect the game and hold the ball and drop in between lines at times as well.

“So there’s a lot to his game and that’s what we can’t take lightly in terms of how much we’ve missed him."

Kieran Trippier seems to be at the end of the road on Tyneside. Having lost his starting right-back spot to Tino Livramento, the Newcastle United star is being linked with a move away.

The transfer window might have closed in England and most of Europe's top divisions, but, according to reports, Trippier is being courted by a host of Turkish outfits.

The 33-year-old is also understood to have informed Eddie Howe that he wishes to move away after being reduced to a bit-part role, despite his manager's wish to keep hold of him.

Livramento, recently called up to the senior England squad for the first time – symbolic given Trippier recently retired from Three Lions duty – is one of the hottest prospects in the Premier League, and the Magpies could find that they already have the perfect successor in 17-year-old Leo Shahar.

Meet Newcastle's next Kieran Trippier

Shahar signed for Newcastle from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2023 aged only 16, with the talented full-back viewing St. James' Park as the optimal place for growth, finding a pathway to prominence.

And it would appear that it's paid off for the ball-playing defender, who has already been hailed as "easily one of the most exciting players in our academy" by one NUFCblogcouk writer.

Regarded as a technician with one of the deadliest deliveries on United's academy scene by teammate Ellis Stanton, Shahar could be the perfect replacement for Trippier, who is one of the most creative full-backs in the business.

Indeed, as per FBref, the £120k-per-week ace ranks among the top 1% of positional peers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for assists, the top 2% for passes attempted, the top 4% for progressive passes and the top 5% for shot-creating actions per 90.

He might be entering the twilit phase of his career, but Trippier is still an incredible creative outlet, and Shahar could be the perfect homegrown heir.

After all, Newcastle's academy is starting to go from strength to strength. Shahar needs only look at Lewis Miley's emergence.

Following in Lewis Miley's footsteps

It's incredible that Miley only turned 18 at the end of the 2023/24 season. Due to Newcastle's unceasing injury issues last year, the central midfielder was fast-tracked, playing 28 matches across all competitions and starting 14 times in the Premier League.

Premier League

18

1

3

FA Cup

4

0

0

Champions League

3

0

1

Carabao Cup

2

0

0

The multi-functional starlet has been hailed for his versatility and "unbelievable" quality by fellow Magpies youth graduate Sean Longstaff.

Shahar will certainly be hoping to take a leaf out of his book, and after playing predominantly in the U18 Premier League last season, he has started the present term in the Premier League 2, with the U21s, starting the past two matches after coming off the bench at half-time during the opener against Sunderland.

Shahar has much to give and needs to continue to work on his physical development, but with the right handling, he could be the perfect Trippier replacement, serving as Livramento's understudy.

Miley's done it, and he can too.

Newcastle failed with £21m bid for "great" Guehi alternative from UCL club

The Magpies ended the window without signing a central defender…

ByTom Cunningham Sep 5, 2024

Sheffield United have been told they have an “unreal” talent who “looks a real player” among their ranks this season after they put in another top display in the Championship.

Sheffield United beat Hull City

Chris Wilder’s Sheffield United continued their unbeaten start to the Championship season as they brushed aside Hull City 2-0 at the MKM stadium on Friday night.

Gustavo Hamer set the Blades on their way with an excellent finish after Callum O Hare robbed the ball back on the halfway line for United before teeing up his teammate to lash home from 12 yards. They added their second goal on the hour mark when Sam McCallum finished off a fine counter-attack that Kieffer Moore had led, doubling his side’s advantage and ensuring that they left Hull with all three points.

84-cap winger: 3 realistic free agent signings Sheffield United must look at

They could be vital additions to help secure instant promotion.

1 ByBen Browning Sep 4, 2024

Despite a quiet transfer window, the result moved them onto nine points after five games, with three wins having been accompanied by two draws. It is a strong start as Wilder’s side look to secure an instant return back to the Premier League after their relegation last season. However, the Sheffield United boss felt his side should have done even better.

“I don’t think it was the most free-flowing performance for us, I think we’ve played a lot better in the last four games but it’s a great experience, it’s a young team, we’re still learning. That will be a great experience for them.

“We need to be better with the ball. They give you a chance, I was just a bit disappointed that when they gave us the chance to nick it off them, which we did, we weren’t better and more clinical”, he explained.

Despite his concerns, one player stood out as a potential future star in English football.

20-year-old Blades starlet earns rave reviews

That comes as 20-year-old loanee Alfire Gilchrist once again stood out to onlookers as he put in another top performance for the Blades. The Chelsea man, who is spending the season at Bramall Lane, has started every single game so far this season and has been impressive, but his performance against Hull may have been his best yet.

He won all three of his tackles, as well as making 10 clearances and winning five duels in his 83 minutes on the pitch.

Alfie Gilchrist vs Hull City

Minutes played

83

Tackles (won)

3 (3)

Pass Accuracy

83%

Duels contested (won)

9 (5)

Clearances

10

Fouls committed

1

Sheffield United fan account AllThingsBlades took to X to dub him “unreal” against the Tigers, while local media also raved about his performance. Meanwhile, the Sheffield Star handed him an 8/10.

“Since he arrived at Sheffield United I can’t remember anyone getting the better of Gilchrist in a one-on-one situation and the Chelsea loanee just absolutely lives for defending. He celebrated one block like he’d just scored the winner and picked up a booking for scything down Omur with typical gusto. Looks a real player”

Though only on loan at Bramall Lane, it seems as though Sheffield United fans might have a rising star on their hands for at least this season.