All posts by z3u9t.icu

One of the oldest and most bitter rivalries in English football is between Chelsea and Arsenal. It is fair to say that there is no love lost between the two clubs, who hail from West London in Chelsea’s case, and North London for the Gunners.

Naturally, over the years, there have been players who have represented both clubs. One of those is currently playing at the Emirates Stadium, specifically Raheem Sterling, who is on loan from Chelsea. Perhaps the two biggest names are Ashley Cole and Cesc Fabregas, both of whom played first for the Gunners and then for the Blues.

Interestingly, the top-flight pair are battling it out to sign the same player this summer, rather than one man featuring for both, reigniting the rivalry off the pitch once more.

The player Chelsea want to sign ahead of Arsenal

There are plenty of good market opportunities this summer for players who are out of contract. One of the most prominent examples is Trent Alexander-Arnold, who will leave Liverpool on a free and is set to join Real Madrid.

Transfer Focus

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

Well, Chelsea are set to go head to head with Arsenal to sign Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sane. According to reports from Sky in Germany, the Blues are one of the clubs ‘ready for the winger’ this summer, if he doesn’t sign a new deal at the Bundesliga champions.

They seem to be ahead of the Gunners in the race, who are thought to have ‘distanced’ themselves from the move, instead targeting a younger winger.

As for Chelsea, the report suggests that ‘much depends on qualification for the Champions League’, but if they secure that, they have an excellent shot at bringing Sane to the club.

Why Sane could be another Sterling

29-year-old Sane is certainly no stranger to the Premier League. He has featured in the English top flight before as a Manchester City player, scoring 25 goals and grabbing 30 assists in 95 appearances. In total, he played three seasons and won the Premier League twice.

If he can replicate at Stamford Bridge what he did at the Etihad Stadium, Chelsea fans would surely be delighted. Sane was a chance creation machine.

Across his three full Premier League seasons at the club, he averaged 1.8 key passes per game in 2016/17, followed by 2.2 in 2017/18 and 1.9 in 2018/19, according to Sofascore.

Key passes

1.8

2.2

1.9

Big chances created

0.4

0.5

0.5

Dribbles completed

2.7

3.2

2.6

Tackles and interceptions

2.7

1.5

1.6

Goals and assists

0.5

1

1

Yet, as time has gone by, the winger has not quite had the same impact at Bayern as he did at City. Across all competitions for the newly crowned Bundesliga champions this term, he’s managed 13 goals and six assists in 45 games.

Whilst there has been a level of consistency in the top division of German football, with 11 goals and six assists, Sane struggled in the Champions League. In 13 appearances, the Schalke academy graduate scored once and didn’t register an assist, with his goal coming in a 9-2 thrashing over Dinamo Zagreb.

With that inconsistency creeping in, perhaps there is a worry that Sane will struggle at Chelsea just as Sterling did. There are certainly similarities between the pair, given they both played for Man City in one of the most successful sides in Premier League history.

However, for Chelsea, Sterling wasn’t really as effective. He scored 19 goals and grabbed 15 assists in 81 games for the West Londoners, and never really played a consistent role in the side, constantly floating around different positions on the pitch.

There were some highlights, however, including this strike against Luton Town last season.

Perhaps these deals are just too similar for Chelsea. With Sterling a high earner, on £325k per week at Stamford Bridge last season, and Sane on roughly the same at Bayern, £323k per week as per Capology, it would also save the Blues some money.

However, he can be a “superstar” on his day, as football scout Antonio Mango described him, and there is no doubt about his quality. Perhaps Chelsea are willing to take the bet that Sane will be able to replicate his incredible output last time he played in the Premier League.

Chelsea must sell "lost" flop" who earns more than Isak & Delap combined

Chelsea could fund their striker search by cashing in on a high earner this summer

ByRobbie Walls May 21, 2025

Trent Alexander-Arnold has left Liverpool. In fairness, FSG have done very well indeed here, banking around £10m to allow the right-back to join Real Madrid early, so that he can play under Xabi Alonso in next month’s Club World Cup.

It was tired saga, an indisputable stain on Liverpool’s incredible Premier League triumph. Ah well, it will come out in the wash. Now that the whole ordeal is over, we can turn toward the exciting incomings heading Anfield’s way.

Jeremie Frimpong has completed his medical, and his transfer to Anfield will be announced imminently, while deals for Florian Wirtz and Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez are in the pipeline. Liverpool also want a new number nine.

However, this can’t all happen without a few exits. Let’s take a look at who might be leaving Arne Slot’s Reds this summer.

Who could be leaving Liverpool

Alexander-Arnold wasn’t the only one in tears as Liverpool lifted the Premier League title after their season-closing draw with Crystal Palace on Sunday.

Harvey Elliott cut a poignant figure, for the young playmaker has been limited to a bit-part role this season and looks like he may leave. Wolverhampton Wanderers, Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund are mooted names, with Liverpool demanding £50m.

With Frimpong inbound, Kostas Tsimikas’ five-year stay at the club may be at an end. Andy Robertson, 31, has been on the decline, but he wants to stay and challenge Kerkez for a place, and there won’t be room for three.

Darwin Nunez is perhaps the most nailed-on for a departure. Liverpool want a striker, but can’t move forward without the sale of their club-record man, whose well-documented struggles in England have left him with just seven goals from 47 matches across all competitions this term.

It’s been frustrating to watch the Uruguayan struggle, especially since those early hopes he would emulate his countryman Luis Suarez and become a superstar at Liverpool.

Elsewhere, curious reports of Bayern Munich’s interest in Cody Gakpo have also surfaced this week, but it seems unlikely FSG would allow the left-sided forward, behind only Mohamed Salah in Liverpool’s scoring charts this season, to leave.

Liverpool summer transfer window in 2020

However, Luis Diaz is also being targeted by suitors and may well be set for an exit in the coming months.

FSG expecting bid for key player

According to transfer insider Ben Jacobs, Liverpool are expecting to hear from Saudi officials in the coming weeks, with Al Nassr – who are requesting funding to make an offer – identifying Diaz as their top target.

Jacobs believes Diaz is likely to cost in excess of €85m (£72m) if he’s to leave Anfield this summer, with his potential exit certainly not a formality.

Barcelona also have a long-standing interest in the 28-year-old, with La Blaugrana in particular publicly revealing their admiration for the player as they weigh up a bid.

It’s thought that Diaz is pushing for a new contract at Anfield, earning just £55k per week and entering the penultimate year of his current deal.

Why Diaz could be another Luis Suarez

While it might seem a good idea to take a big offer for Diaz, he’s regarded as a “world-class” player by former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp and replacing him effectively, with other areas in need of investment, could be tricky.

Indeed, the Colombian has just enjoyed his finest campaign at Liverpool, scoring 17 goals and providing eight assists across all competitions.

Moreover, his underlying technical data is highly impressive. As per FBref, the skilful star ranks among the top 13% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top-five leagues this term for goals scored, the top 7% for pass completion, the top 19% for successful take-ons and the top

Selling Diaz while at the top of his game could even mimic the one-time sale of Suarez to Barcelona, the football legend joining Camp Nou in a deal worth £75m back in 2014.

There are differences, of course, but Liverpool would be relinquishing a South American star after a season competing at the peak of the Premier League.

But feelings of indifference toward Diaz are misguided: as Suarez was under Brendan Rodgers, Diaz is one of the finest players in the world in his position, perhaps a little wasteful here and there, but still producing impressive numbers that other players may struggle to replicate.

1)

Raphinha

36

18

2)

Bradley Barcola

34

14

3)

Luis Diaz

36

13

4)

Javi Puado

35

12

5)

Vinicius Junior

30

11

As you can see, Raphinha and Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola were the only left-sided forwards across Europe’s top-five leagues who outscored Diaz this season, and he was indeed the highest scorer in the Premier League.

Suarez scored 82 goals across 133 matches for the Reds. He is, of course, an out-and-out centre-forward, but the principle remains: Liverpool would be skating across thin ice in allowing their fleet-footed maverick to depart with plenty more upheaval taking place down Anfield Road.

It’s a tricky one: Diaz is one of the best wingers in the Premier League, instrumental in winning the thing under Slot’s leadership this season, and having completed his most productive individual season in a Liverpool shirt too.

However, he’s also going to be 30 by the time his current deal expires at the end of the 2026/27 campaign, and suitors seem willing to at least consider paying a handsome figure to take him from Merseyside.

Much to consider, however; is Diaz really such a liability in this team? Is his prowess unfairly darkened by Salah’s ridiculous output, hardly a fair yardstick to compare against any talented winger?

Liverpool might just come to look at their banked sums, should Diaz depart, with a similar ruefulness to when Suarez up and left for riches abroad.

That said, resilience and intensity have led Slot’s Liverpool to success this season, and they should be able to overcome such a setback.

Salah 2.0: Liverpool pursuing £59m star who has a "left foot made of gold"

Liverpool may yet enter the transfer market for a right-sided forward this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 30, 2025

Leeds United face the unenviable task of having to recruit for a season in the Premier League after they won the Championship title to earn promotion to the big time.

The last six teams that were promoted from the second tier were all relegated in their first seasons in the top-flight, which speaks to how difficult the task ahead will be for the Whites.

However, Leeds already know what it takes to achieve survival in their first season back in the Premier League, because they finished in the top-half under Marcelo Bielsa in the 2020/21 campaign.

The West Yorkshire outfit lost 4-3 to Liverpool in a thrilling match on the opening day of the term, before they went on to comfortably avoid relegation.

Exceptional recruitment work done by Victor Orta and Bielsa underpinned their success that season, as they made several key signings to bolster the squad.

Arguably, the most successful signing that the Whites made ahead of the 2020/21 campaign was the addition of Raphinha from Rennes on a permanent deal.

Leeds hit the jackpot with Raphinha

Leeds swooped to sign the Brazilian attacker from the French side in a deal that was reported to be worth £17m plus add-ons, and it turned out to be a huge bargain.

Coming up from the Championship, Bielsa’s side needed an injection of quality to bolster their efforts to stay in the Premier League, and that is exactly what Raphinha provided with his quality at the top end of the pitch from a right wing position.

Appearances

30

Goals

6

Big chances created

12

Key passes per game

2.1

Assists

9

Dribbles completed per game

1.9

As you can see in the table above, the Brazil international made an instant impact in the top-flight with a return of 18 goals and ‘big chances’ created combined in 30 appearances.

Raphinha was not done there, though, as the left-footed magician scored 11 goals and created ten ‘big chances’ in 35 appearances in the Premier League in the 2021/22 campaign to steer Jesse Marsch’s team clear of relegation.

Raphinha’s incredible form for Leeds in the Premier League in his two seasons at Elland Road, unfortunately, attracted interest from elsewhere, and he signed for Barcelona in a deal worth a reported £55m in the summer of 2022.

In the present day, the former Whites star has scored 34 goals and provided 25 assists in 56 matches for the Spanish giants this season, in what has been a phenomenal campaign for him on an individual level.

Whilst Raphinha has kicked on to become a superstar in European football with Barcelona, Leeds are still looking for their next winger to shine on the Premier League stage.

Leeds United's wingers since Raphinha left

Leeds United were relegated from the Premier League in the season after the Brazilian sensation moved on from Elland Road, which points to how important he was to the side.

The Whites ended that term without any of their wingers scoring more than five goals or assisting more than seven goals in the top-flight, which shows that they failed to adequately replace Raphinha’s impact at the top end of the pitch.

24/25 (Championship)

Dan James (12)

Manor Solomon (13)

23/24 (Championship)

Crysencio Summerville (21)

Crysencio Summerville (10)

22/23 (Premier League)

Luis Sinisterra (7)

Jack Harrison (10)

As you can see in the table above, Dan James hit double figures for goals and Manor Solomon hit double figures for assists, but it remains to be seen how that translates to the top division, after Crysencio Summerville’s struggles this term.

The Dutch forward, who left Leeds to sign for West Ham last summer, only scored one goal and provided one assist in 19 Premier League games for the Hammers this season, which suggests that he has failed to make the step up to the top tier as of yet.

Leeds, therefore, have not had a winger who has had the quality to make a consistent impact at the top level since Raphinha left, but they could change that by signing reported transfer target Dazien Maeda, who is reportedly valued at £25m.

Why Leeds should sign Daizen Maeda

The Whites should swoop to sign the Celtic superstar in the upcoming summer transfer window because he could be their best winger signing since they brought Raphinha in from Rennes in the summer of 2020.

Maeda, dubbed an “amazing role model” by Brendan Rodgers, just ended his 2024/25 campaign with the Scottish giants and enjoyed an unbelievable year on a personal level.

The 27-year-old sensation scored a staggering 33 goals and provided 12 assists in 53 appearances in all competitions for the Hoops, which means that Raphinha only outscored him by one goal for Barcelona, and he has scored at least 12 more goals than any other Leeds winger has in one season in the last three years.

These statistics show that the Celtic star has the potential to be an exceptional addition to the Leeds squad as a winger, who typically plays on the left flank, with the quality to score and create goals at an incredible rate.

Some supporters may question the quality of Scottish football and how it translates to the Premier League, as is the case with the Championship, but Maeda also showcased his quality on the biggest stage of all in the Champions League.

Appearances

9

xG

2.80

Goals

4

Conversion rate

27%

Big chances created

1

Assists

0

As you can see in the table above, the Hoops star outperformed his xG to score an impressive four goals in nine Champions League games, which included goals against German giants Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund.

This shows that the Japanese ace, who has been described as a “machine” by coaches, has the quality to make a big impact in the final third against some of the biggest teams in Europe, which suggests that he could adapt to the level of the Premier League.

“Top class” star is absolutely finished at Leeds if the 49ers sign Wilson

This Leeds United star’s career at Elland Road could be over if Callum Wilson signs.

ByDan Emery May 20, 2025

Therefore, Leeds could sign their best winger since Raphinha by splashing £25m on Maeda in the upcoming summer transfer window, because he has the statistics and the performances at the top level to suggest that he would be a high-quality addition to Daniel Farke’s squad.

Arsenal are reportedly set to kickstart a significant squad overhaul over the course of this summer transfer window, as Mikel Arteta attempts to build a Premier League-winning team after missing out on this year’s crown to Liverpool.

Andrea Berta set for busy summer at Arsenal

La Liga expert and respected journalist Guillem Balague has already shared what supporters can expect from new sporting director Andrea Berta, with the Italian already hard at work to back Arteta in the transfer market.

£50m star could now reject Arsenal move and sign new deal after talks

He also snubbed an exit last summer.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 4, 2025

Berta has held extensive talks over a move for Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres, and met with RB Leipzig director Marcel Schafer in London to discuss the prospect of a deal for Benjamin Sesko, according to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

Arsenal are working to discover the conditions of deals for Sesko and Gyokeres before deciding which striker to prioritise, according to the BBC, but Berta is believed to have other key items on his agenda this summer as well.

While Martin Zubimendi’s signing is proving more complicated than first thought, with the Spain international now denying he’s set for an imminent Arsenal move, it is also rumoured that the Gunners are actively pursuing a new wide player.

“He’s been described to me by one of the decision makers, one of the ones that decided to bring him in, that he’s experienced, he’s a hard worker, and he’s very brave,” said Balague about Berta to TNT Sports.

“But basically, he’s going to have to be creative as well. Arsenal are not here with the intention of spending £200 or £300 million. They just want to be creative with what they’ve got and what they bring in.

“They’re going to have to create three or four players that go straight into the line-up. I would say a left winger, centre-forward and holding midfielder. Mikel Arteta said it’s the biggest transfer window for a long while and having Berta next to him as a partnership will definitely help.”

Jorginho set for Flamengo medical after leaving Arsenal

A new centre midfielder, which could still be Zubimendi, is especially vital considering Jorginho is leaving the Emirates, with Arsenal announcing his departure today via their retained list.

The Italy international has agreed a pre-contract deal to join Brazilian side Flamengo, and has been in talks to terminate his Arsenal contract earlier than June 30 so he can feature for his new team at the Club World Cup.

That is apparently done and dusted, with GE Globo reporting that Jorginho is set for a medical on Friday ahead of signing a three-year contract at Flamengo.

With the 33-year-old leaving, it makes the arrival of Zubimendi and a potential contract extension for Thomas Partey all the more important, otherwise Arteta risks being left very short in that area.

“I know him a lot, so for me it is nice to play with him, he knows me well,” said Kai Havertz about Jorginho in 2024.

“It makes life easy for me, he is a world-class player.”

Ange Postecoglou cemented his legacy at Tottenham Hotspur when he led his side to glory in the Europa League last season, ending 17 years of searching for silverware down N17.

However, Spurs’ 17th-place finish in the Premier League pass judgment on Postecoglou’s tenure, ending his time in the dugout after two campaigns that were fraught with setbacks but charged by excitement.

Now, with Thomas Frank at the helm, Tottenham will hope to build on last year’s success and establish themselves as one of the most dangerous clubs in England once again, having sealed their place in the Champions League too.

Matches

76

152

Wins

31

54

Draws

11

38

Losses

34

60

Goals scored

138

228

Goals conceded

126

224

Points

104

200

PPG

1.37

1.32

Daniel Levy will no doubt be doing some soul-searching after making the contentious call, but in Frank, the Londoners have bagged a manager capable of shaping talented players into shining stars.

The Danish tactician will relish the chance to work with Tottenham’s crew, but he will need to be backed this summer, strengthening the squad with one or two attacking additions.

Spurs lining up attacking signings

Sure, Tottenham need reinforcements across the park, but with Heung-min Son entering the autumn of his career and attracting interest from suitors in the Middle East, fresh recruits are needed.

The 20-year-old Mathys Tel’s loan move has been wrapped up for £30m, which could prove a shrewd deal indeed, but there’s little question that more is needed, both out wide and as support for striker Dominic Solanke.

Looking at the flanks, West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus is available after a difficult campaign in east London, while L’Equipe have recently reported Lilywhites interest in AS Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche, who is valued at around €60m (£51m).

Bryan Mbeumo has also been at the centre of talks, and Frank would love nothing more than a reunion with his Brentford talisman. However, the prolific Cameroon international’s preference is to sign for Man United this summer.

No matter, Tottenham appear to have found their dream alternative.

Spurs make contact for Premier League star

The Athletic’s David Ornstein has confirmed that Tottenham have made an official enquiry for Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo. However, Daniel Levy has no intention of meeting the £70m asking price.

Man United are also keen but are in the same camp as Spurs, albeit they are leaning toward Mbeumo. With Semenyo thought to be keen on the move to north London, though, this one’s hardly dead in the water.

Saying that, the Cherries are under no pressure to sell after offloading Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez.

Why Spurs should sign Antoine Semenyo

Bournemouth signed Semenyo from Bristol City for a smart £10.5m fee in January 2023, and has since gone from strong to stronger under the wing of Andoni Iraola.

Indeed, across the past two Premier League campaigns, the versatile winger has scored 19 goals and provided nine assists, underlaying his output with sharp, dynamic movements and a tenacious defensive attitude.

His completeness suggests Semenyo could even prove an upgrade on Brennan Johnson, 24, who is one of Tottenham’s most prolific players but is guilty of drifting in and out of games, waning at points.

Two seasons into his career down N17, the Welshman posted 18 goals and seven assists last term, the most notable of which was the bundled-in winner to seal the Europa League title.

But he needs to do more across the wider game. As per Sofascore, Johnson averaged just 0.6 dribbles, 2.8 successful duels, and 0.6 key passes over last year’s top-flight season, also creating just four big chances across his 33 appearances (24 of which were starts).

Transfer Focus

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

Semenyo, however, is far more complete. Not only did he score 11 goals and add five assists in the league (Johnson’s haul was as follows: 11 goals, three assists), but the forward also averaged 1.9 dribbles, 6.1 duels, and 4.3 ball recoveries per game.

This suggests that the Cherries sensation could offer more to the team with his all-round game on the flank in comparison to Johnson’s limited performances.

Described as a “duel monster” and a “workhorse off the ball” by analyst Ben Mattinson, the Bournemouth man is perfectly aligned with Frank’s vision, especially when considering he plays in a similar fashion to Mbeumo.

Indeed, FBref record the Englishman to be of a statistical likeness to the Bees star, ranked as he was among the top 5% of the Premier League’s attacking midfielders and wingers last year for shots taken, the top 20% for successful take-ons and the top 8% for aerials won per 90.

Right winger

46

13

3

Left winger

29

7

5

Centre-forward

6

1

0

Semenyo’s versatility has seen him provide a potent output both on the left and the right wing for Bournemouth, with his teammate Lewis Cook hailing his “aggressive” and “clinical” qualities.

Such praise underlines the Ghana international’s suitability for a place in a Tottenham team hoping to cement themselves among Europe’s elite for years to come while challenging for major honours with a newfound taste for triumph.

Of course, Johnson is hardly allergic to playing a definitive role in sealing silverware – just hark back to the Europa League final – but across the wider span of the campaign, Tottenham supporters cannot contest the fact that there was a consistent lack of consistency and fluency that led to the lowly Premier League finish.

Semenyo would change that, dovetailing into Frank’s new Spurs system and rising to become the astute manager’s new version of Mbeumo.

This wouldn’t necessarily relegate Johnson to the backbenches, for the transfer target is competent across both wings, but there’s no doubt that he would add a dimension which his counterpart has yet to unlock in its entirety.

Much depends on whether Levy can whittle down Bournemouth’s hefty £70m fee. If the shrewd businessman can do so, he would strengthen the new Tottenham project and then some.

Dream Son heir: Spurs set to enter bidding war for "generational" £50m star

The talented youngster could be a superstar at Spurs.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 20, 2025

Aston Villa only have a limited time to raise funds in their battle to avoid PSR sanctions, with the footballing financial deadline for 2024/2025 looming on June 30.

£120k-a-week Aston Villa outfielder has now opened talks to join elite club

He could leave with Emiliano Martinez.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Jun 21, 2025

Unai Emery’s side can only register a loss of around £15 million for the year just gone, according to a recent report by The Athletic, with Premier League clubs only permitted losses of around £105m over a rolling three-year period.

Villa are forecast to be over this limit as things stand, prompting NSWE to explore the possibility of selling their women’s team in a bid to comply with PSR and swerve breaches.

Emery falling just short of qualifying for the Champions League at the end of 24/25 cost them dearly both on and off the field, and there is every possibility that Villa could look to secure a big-name exit in the next two days to raise funds.

Their marquee sales of Jhon Duran and Moussa Diaby to Saudi Arabia have really helped in this regard, but they could require at least one more as the PSR deadline looms.

Atletico Madrid held talks with Lucas Digne over a switch to La Liga recently, according to Football Insider, and the 52-cap Frenchman, with just one year remaining on his £120,000-per-week contract, could be a prime contender for the exit door.

Emiliano Martínez, Youri Tielemans and Amadou Onana are other players named as potential candidates to leave, while clubs are expressing a serious interest in Villa sensation Morgan Rogers as well.

The clock is ticking for Villa to agree a significant departure, and they could be handed a chance to make some money off Kosta Nedeljkovic’s talks to join RB Leipzig permanently (Sky Germany).

However, according to journalist Wayne Veysey, Villa have also alerted representatives to their stance over selling star striker Ollie Watkins.

Aston Villa tell agents they're ready to sell Ollie Watkins

Emery’s side rejected a low-ball £40 million bid from Arsenal for Watkins in January, but the Gunners haven’t followed that up with any formal approach so far this summer.

Writing for Football Insider, Veysey states Villa have told “senior agents” that they’re ready to sell Watkins by Monday, but they’re yet to find a buyer for the talismanic forward, who bagged 17 goals and 14 assists in all competitions last term.

The 29-year-old, who’ll turn 30 in December, also became the club’s all-time top Premier League goalscorer at the back end of 24/25, surpassing Gabriel Agbonlahor, but Villa have apparently made it clear they’re willing to do a deal.

Emery may not be a fan of this decision, or supporters for that matter, considering they already let Duran go earlier this year – and it would be an almighty task to replace Watkins’ influence up front.

“He deserves it completely because he is a hard worker,” said Emery about Watkins, after the ex-Brentford star broke Agbonlahor’s Premier League goalscoring record for Villa.

“He is committed with Aston Villa. His courage has been fantastic and to achieve it is very fantastic. I am so, so grateful to have a player like him.”

West Ham United have now made contact over a deal to sign a “world-class” player, who is desperate to move to the Premier League this summer, according to a report.

Kudus' West Ham future in major doubt

Mohammed Kudus has been one of West Ham’s key players over the past two seasons, making 65 Premier League appearances, but the winger’s time at the London Stadium could now be coming to an end.

As a result, Graham Potter could be faced with the difficult job of finding a replacement for the Ghanaian this summer, while the manager is also keen on bringing in a new central midfielder, having picked out a range of potential options.

Player

Current club

Potential price tag

Raphael Onyedika

Club Brugge

£25.5m

Harvey Elliott

Liverpool

£40m+

Rocco Reitz

Borussia Monchengladbach

£17m

Reitz has caught the eye after impressing at the U21 European Championships, but a new report has revealed the Irons have now made contact over a deal for a midfielder with a little more experience at the top level.

According to The Boot Room, West Ham have now made contact over a deal for Juventus’ Douglas Luiz, but there could be fierce competition for his signature from a number of their Premier League rivals.

Man United, Everton, Fulham, Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur are also named as potential suitors for Luiz, who is desperate to return to the Premier League after leaving Aston Villa for £42m last summer.

The Brazilian failed to adapt to life in the Serie A, and believes that returning to the Premier League may increase his chances of going to the 2026 World Cup.

West Ham now make £22m offer for "exciting" player who turned down Man Utd

The Hammers have submitted a bid for a player targeted by Manchester United and Chelsea.

ByDominic Lund Jul 7, 2025 "World-class" Luiz could be coup for West Ham

The maestro may have struggled to make an impact at Juventus, but he certainly left a lasting impression during his previous stint in the Premier League, being lauded as “world-class” by former teammate John McGinn.

As displayed by a fantastic assist for Ollie Watkins in the Conference League, the Brazil international is a threat on the front foot, while also proving himself to be a fantastic all-round midfielder with his performances in the 2023-24 campaign.

As such, Luiz could be a real coup for Potter, who will be looking to make a push for the European places next season, rather than flirting with relegation again.

Nottingham Forest may soon have to contemplate life without star winger Anthony Elanga, with Nuno Espirito Santo’s side casting their eyes towards a Premier League star in search of a quality replacement.

Liverpool racing Nottingham Forest to sign "fantastic" £17m Diaz heir

Diaz could still leave the club this summer.

ByTom Cunningham Jul 2, 2025

While nothing is signed or confirmed just yet, Elanga is gradually heading in the direction of Newcastle United – coming as a blow to Nuno as he prepares the club for their first campaign back in Europe for decades.

The versatile Sweden international was one of Forest’s most influential attackers last season in their chase for Champions League qualification, which went all the way to the final day, with Nuno’s side having to settle for a place in the Conference League through no fault of Elanga’s.

The 23-year-old bagged 12 assists and scored six goals in all competitions under Nuno last season, so much so that Newcastle are now attempting to agree a £55 million deal for Elanga with “positive” talks ongoing.

If Elanga does depart the City Ground, Forest were looking at PSV Eindhoven sensation Johan Bakayoko in January, and the Belgian is re-emerging as a rumoured target.

According to information from Nottingham Forest News, Liverpool forward Harvey Elliott is being considered as well, following his sublime performances with England at the Under-21 European Championship.

Elliott opened the scoring for England in their 3-2 final win over Germany late last month, helping Lee Carsley’s side with four other goals en route to the final, and the 22-year-old’s exceptional displays have placed him on the radar of numerous top-flight sides who could look to tempt him away from Anfield.

Liverpool will reportedly demand around £50 million to sell the former Fulham academy graduate, but this hasn’t deterred Forest.

Forest identify Harvey Elliott as potential Elanga replacement

According to Forest News, Elliott is on Nuno’s initial shortlist of potential replacements for Elanga, alongside Bakayoko.

The attacking midfielder struggled for Premier League minutes in an illustrious title-winning side last term, but contributed when called upon. Elliott was out for a large portion of the early-season with a broken foot, but began to find his own towards the latter stages of 2024/2025.

Elliott scored the winner in a 1-0 victory at PSG in the Champions League round of 16, after also scoring against both Lille and PSV in the league phase, so he’s a player capable of performing at the very highest level.

Clubs may well lure him with the promise of more consistent game time, and considering Elanga’s potentially imminent exit, we certainly cannot discount Forest.

“It wouldn’t surprise me if he looks to leave Liverpool this summer,” said former scout Mick Brown to Football Insider recently.

“There are a number of clubs in the Premier League and abroad who want to sign him. He’s a better player than a lot of people give him credit for, and when he comes on as a sub he always produces quality moments.

“It’s difficult to understand why he hasn’t been playing at Liverpool. Maybe he doesn’t get on particularly well with the manager, maybe he’s just not the right fit for their system, but he’s a very talented player.

“I expect clubs will be queuing up for him if he does become available. He’s the type of player who would add something to most teams in the country.”

Chelsea’s next order of business, after winning the Club World Cup in New Jersey, is to trim their bloated squad.

Bayern make approach for £31m Chelsea star who shone at the Club World Cup

The Bundesliga giants have come forward to sign one of Enzo Maresca’s key players.

ByDominic Lund Jul 15, 2025

Enzo Maresca’s side reigned triumphant with a statement 3-0 win over European champions PSG, a result which also yielded an £87.5 million financial windfall for the club, but they remain under pressure to sell unwanted players.

Cole Palmer

7.33

Moises Caicedo

7.02

Enzo Fernández

6.95

Nicolas Jackson

6.88

Noni Madueke

6.82

via WhoScored

Chelsea struck an agreement with UEFA to balance their squad through making sales, coming after they were fined for breaking FFP rules, and the west Londoners could face an additional fine of around £51 million if they fail to comply with regulations in the next four years.

They also need to offload players so they can register new signings for the Champions League next season.

“It’s been well documented that Chelsea have spent a lot of money in the transfer window already this summer, and they need to balance their books,” said Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol, after they agreed a deal to sell Noni Madueke to Arsenal for around £50 million.

“Last week they came to an agreement with UEFA that basically said that if they want to register new players for the Champions League next season, they have to make sure that their transfer spend this season is balanced out this summer by the players they sell as well.

“So they’ve signed players like Liam Delap and Joao Pedro. That means they also have to sell players.”

Since Madueke’s switch to Arsenal, Chelsea have agreed to sell Djordje Petrovic to Bournemouth in a deal worth £25 million, and midfielder Mathis Amougou joined Strasbourg permanently last week.

Madueke, Petrovic and Amougou join Kepa Arrizabalaga, Basir Humphreys and Marcus Bettinelli out of the Stamford Bridge exit door, so Chelsea are making progress on outgoings, and many more are expected to follow.

Raheem Sterling, Ben Chilwell, Renato Veiga, Axel Disasi, Carney Chukwuemeka, Lesley Ugochukwu, Armando Broja and Christopher Nkunku are also likely to leave Chelsea, and they’ll listen to offers for midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.

João Félix in talks to leave Chelsea and join Benfica

That is according to Standard Sport, who report that BlueCo are preparing a “ruthless” summer clearout.

Another name on the chopping block is attacking midfield flop João Félix, who spent the second half of 2024/2025 on loan at AC Milan after failing to break into Maresca’s first-team fold on a regular enough basis.

Felix re-joined Chelsea in a £46 million deal from Atlético Madrid, but his reunion with the west Londoners really hasn’t gone to plan. He’s out of Maresca’s long-term plans, and the 25-year-old could now return to boyhood club Benfica.

Standard Sport and reporter Dom Smith claim Felix is in talks over a move back to Portugal with Benfica, as Chelsea attempt to get his £130,000-per-week wages off the books for good.

They apparently won’t entertain any form of loan, either, and are determined to seal his permanent exit.

Leeds United have made contact over the signing of an attacking player who is admired by none other than legendary striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, according to a new transfer update.

Leeds suffer Paixao transfer blow

There is still plenty of time for the Whites to get some important business over the line this summer, but they have suffered one big blow ahead of their Premier League return next month.

Primary transfer target Igor Paixao has reportedly chosen to move from Feyenoord to Marseille, rather than join Leeds, meaning Daniel Farke will now have to turn his attention to other attacking options instead.

It’s now a case of the Whites finding an ideal alternative option to Paixao, as well as strengthening in other positions, with Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara mentioned as a strong addition to come in and bolster Farke’s depth in the middle of the park.

Now, another name has been thrown into the mix for Leeds, as they look to perfect their squad before the Premier League opener at home to Everton on August 18th.

Leeds make contact over Sottil signing

According to a new report from TuttoMercatoWeb [via Sport Witness], Leeds and Farke have made contact with Fiorentina about signing winger Riccardo Sottil this summer. Serie A side Torino are also pushing hard to snap up the 26-year-old, however, potentially bringing him in on loan with an option to buy him permanently next year.

Sotill has the quality to be a big hit for Leeds, with Ibrahimovic, who serves in an advisory role for AC Milan, even speaking of his admiration when the winger was on loan there last season.

“Sottil always looks for one-on-one situations, can play on both wings, is young, and has room to grow. Our job is to help them become even stronger.”

Sottil has 15 goals and assists apiece in 138 appearances for Fiorentina, while three goals in 12 caps for Italy’s Under-21s shows that he has been a highly-rated figure since his younger days.

Better signing than Paixao: Leeds in hunt to sign "exceptional" £30m star

Leeds United are reportedly in the hunt to sign an attacking midfielder who would be a better signing than Igor Paixao.

1 ByDan Emery Jul 29, 2025

The Italian was even in the top 1% of dribblers last season when compared with positional peers in the big five leagues, further highlighting his attacking ability. He could get Leeds supporters out of their seats next term and beyond.