Derby County are in the hunt for a winger before the transfer deadline and John Eustace may be about to get his wish with so little time remaining in the window.
Derby County drop points late on at Ipswich Town
Despite a valiant effort from the Rams, Jack Clarke struck 16 minutes into injury time from the spot as Derby had to settle for a share of the spoils in an enthralling encounter at Portman Road.
Reviewing events, Eustace praised his side for their spirited display against a side who were only recently relegated from the top-flight, albeit he was frustrated with the end result.
DerbyCounty manager John Eustace before the match
He told BBC Sport: “Really, really disappointed to concede [the equaliser]. I think that’s a world record amount of time ever added to any game. I’ve never seen that amount of minutes before.
“The lads battled, worked their socks off and we deserved the three points. What an effort that was from a group of players who are going to grow throughout the season. I think there some really good signs for where we want to get to and I was really proud of the effort.”
Reports suggest Derby are in with a fighting chance of signing Ben Brereton Diaz from Southampton, which would help Eustace to realise his ambition of laying claim to another wide option before the window closes.
Chesterfield Town attacker Armando Dobra is also a target for the Rams, meaning there are plenty of plates spinning with the deadline drawing closer at Pride Park.
With that in mind, Eustace and his men are ready to offer a contract to an experienced winger who could be the key to unlocking defences in the Championship.
Derby County ready to offer contract to Patrick Roberts
According to Alan Nixon via his Patreon, relayed by Football League World, Derby are set to offer a three-year contract to Sunderland winger Patrick Roberts, who could fulfill Eustace’s wish to land a winger before the window closes.
Earning a solitary Premier League appearance against Burnley, the former Celtic loanee has also featured against Huddersfield Town in the EFL Cup and may now be available due to experiencing limited minutes.
Derby County make 8-figure bid to sign international at the top of his game
This is their third bid for the player.
4 ByCallum Kemp Aug 21, 2025
Labelled “dynamic” by Regis Le Bris, Roberts created 65 chances in the Championship last term and played a major role in the Black Cats’ promotion from the second-tier, albeit he has fallen victim to their summer spending spree.
Derby could now look to capitalise on his availability, though it remains to be seen if other clubs come calling for the £12,500 per week earner over the coming hours.
Eustace has had a positive impact since arriving at Pride Park that will be a tempting draw for players, something that may play on Roberts’ mind when it comes to picking his next career challenge.
Manchester United have made a new midfielder one of their priorities for the remainder of the summer transfer window – with such an area next on the list for their overhaul of the squad.
Casemiro started at the heart of the side alongside Bruno Fernandes, but the 33-year-old is certainly coming to the back end of his professional career and is unable to maintain his fitness over the course of a full campaign.
Manuel Ugarte is another option currently at Ruben Amorim’s disposal, but the Uruguayan has fallen below the standards set by the fanbase after his £50m move from PSG last summer.
Academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo has also struggled to fit into the manager’s 3-4-2-1 system, with the aforementioned duo often being chosen ahead of him – as seen on Sunday, with the youngster being an unused substitute.
Despite the four options currently on the books at Old Trafford, the boss and the hierarchy still remain in the market for added reinforcements in the midfield department, targeting numerous options before the September 1st deadline.
Manchester United manager RubenAmorimapplauds fans after the match
Man Utd targeting a new midfielder for Amorim
United’s hunt for a new midfielder has seen them target various options in the Premier League over recent weeks, but their hunt has so far been to no avail.
Moves for Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton have both been made in recent weeks, but deals for either of the 21-year-olds now look unlikely, given their current £100m asking prices.
However, no time has been wasted by the hierarchy, subsequently turning their attention to Como star Nico Paz, according to Spanish outlet Defensa Central.
They claim that the Red Devils are one of various sides currently pursuing a move for the 20-year-old, who registered 14 combined goals and assists in his 35 Serie A appearances last campaign.
Como'sNicoPazcelebrates scoring their first goal
It also states that Amorim’s side are preparing a €45m (£38m) offer to land the youngster, but it’s unclear if the player himself would want a move to England this summer.
Why United’s latest target joining would be bad news for Bruno
Bruno mainly operated in a number ten role under Amorim during the 2024/25 campaign, managing to register 37 combined goals and assists – easily being the shining light in what was a dismal year for United.
However, the additions of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have seen the Portuguese international drop into a deeper role to allow the new additions to thrive.
The 30-year-old, who’s the club’s captain, may struggle to replicate such numbers in his new role, ultimately having to sacrifice his own numbers to allow the team to progress.
Given his allowance to play in a free role, Bruno needs a player who’s capable of sitting in front of the backline and regaining possession before handing him the ball to continue his excellent return of goals and assists.
Moves for the likes of Wharton and Baleba will undoubtedly make more sense, given the demands of the current hunt in the market, but it appears the club’s attention is now firmly on the Como star.
However, a move for Paz could spell bad news for the captain, with the youngster a similar sort of player, often making more of an impact with the ball at his feet rather than without.
The Argentine, who can play as a ten or a box-to-box midfielder, would likely provide competition for the Portuguese star, which could result in fewer minutes on the pitch for him in 2025/26.
Como'sNicoPazin action with Juventus' Manuel Locatelli
It may seem a ludicrous decision to utilise Paz over Fernandes at Old Trafford, but when comparing their stats from last season, the Como star managed to better him in various key areas.
The youngster, who’s been labelled as a player with “immense potential” by Jacek Kulig, posted a better shot on target rate, highlighting the threat he poses in front of goal when making his third man runs in beyond the centre-forward.
Games played
35
36
Goals & assists
14
18
Shot on target accuracy
34%
28%
Pass accuracy
81%
76%
Key passes made
2.8
2.7
% of tackles won
47%
40%
Interceptions made
0.8
0.7
Take-ons completed
51%
41%
Carries into final third
2.1
1.9
Aerials won
57%
49%
Paz also completed more of the passes he attempted, whilst also making more key passes per 90, able to provide those ahead of him with constant chances at Old Trafford.
His dominance over the United star is further reflected out of out-of-possession, winning more of the tackles he entered last campaign, along with more interceptions made per 90.
Such figures could make him the perfect box-to-box option in Amorim’s side, especially if he can replicate the numbers he produced in Italy for Como in 2024/25.
Any move would certainly be an exciting one for the fanbase, possessing a lot of qualities that would provide immediate impact, but also pocketing a whole heap of potential to improve further in the years ahead.
Napoli's Giacomo Raspadori in action with Como'sNicoPaz
However, as previously mentioned, it could spell bad news for Bruno if he joined the club, offering needed competition, which could result in less game time in the not-too-distant future.
New Pogba: INEOS offered bargain deal to sign "world-class" CM for Man Utd
Manchester United could finally end their midfielder pursuit with a player just like Paul Pogba.
Leeds United’s summer rebuild is gathering pace, and it could soon involve a high-profile departure from one of their Premier League rivals.
It has been reported that Leeds and Daniel Farke are preparing a formal offer for Everton striker Beto, in a deal expected to cost between £20–22m.
The Guinea-Bissau international, who joined the Toffees from Udinese last summer for €25m (£21m), is now set to leave after a behind-the-scenes fallout.
Sources suggest manager David Moyes has been left unimpressed by Beto’s attitude during pre-season.
While Everton will sanction a sale, they will not do so without lining up a replacement.
Beto’s departure would leave a void up front for the Merseyside club, but it could open the door for a fascinating tactical development at Leeds.
Farke already boasts new signing Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who spurned interest from Sunderland to join the 49ers-owned project, but the club wants a second striker who can both complement and compete with the England international.
And it’s here where a certain Greek international could come into play.
Leeds targeting another striker after Calvert-Lewin
According to BBC Sport, Fotis Ioannidis, the 25-year-old Panathinaikos striker, has emerged as another leading target, with the Yorkshire side closely tracking the player amid their bid to bolster the centre-forward ranks.
FotisIoannidis
The Greek forward stands at 1.87m, slightly shorter than Beto but with a more rounded technical skill set.
He has been capped 17 times by his national team, scoring six goals, and has built a reputation in Greece as a “complete” centre-forward, as per analyst Ben Mattinson.
Over his Panathinaikos career, he has netted 51 goals and registered 15 assists in 188 games, including four strikes in last season’s Europa Conference League.
The player is also attracting interest from Norwich City, Sporting Lisbon, and Porto, underlining his growing reputation.
Why Ioannidis could outshine Beto & thrive with Calvert-Lewin
For all of Beto’s physical attributes – 1.94m tall, 5.81 aerials won per 90, and a 46.9% shot accuracy – his spell in England has been marked by inconsistency.
In 60 league appearances for Everton, he has scored just 11 goals.
While his eight strikes in 30 games last season suggest improvement, his game remains limited when it comes to interplay and creating for others.
Games
30
30
Goals
3
8
Big chances missed
8
12
Goal frequency
324min
193min
Assists
0
0
Big chances created
3
2
Key passes*
0.4
0.4
Total duels won*
44%
44%
Possession lost*
5.3
8.1
Ioannidis, by contrast, offers a more complementary skill set to Calvert-Lewin.
The former Everton man is at his best when receiving service into the box or operating as a focal point for crosses, using his strength and leaping ability to dominate in the air.
To maximise his output, he needs a partner who can stretch defences horizontally, combine in tight spaces, and carry the ball into dangerous areas.
Fotis Ioannidis
Ioannidis fits that mould.
Where Beto offers aerial dominance (ranking in the 97th percentile for aerials won per 90), Ioannidis brings more intelligent link-up play and positional versatility.
His movement allows him to drop deep, combine with midfield runners, and create space for a partner – attributes that could prove invaluable alongside a target man like Calvert-Lewin.
According to FBref, Beto outshoots Ioannidis (2.87 shots per 90 compared to 2.13), but the Greek forward’s higher involvement in build-up phases and his intelligent off-ball runs suggest he would allow Calvert-Lewin to remain central, rather than drifting wide to link play himself.
That could be the key to Leeds getting the most out of their marquee forward signing. And this isn’t just about the numbers, it’s about the fit.
Leeds’ Championship dominance last season was built on fluid attacking movements, rapid transitions, and a willingness to commit players forward.
In the Premier League, they will face more organised, physically imposing defences, making quick combinations and creative runs even more essential.
Ioannidis’ ability to operate between the lines could be the tactical tweak that helps Farke’s men bridge the gap in quality.
The financial element also plays a role. At a market value of €15m £13m), as per Transfermarkt, Ioannidis would cost significantly less than Beto’s original fee, allowing Leeds to invest in other key areas.
Beto scoring for Everton.
That value could rise sharply if he adapts quickly to English football, making him a potential long-term asset rather than a short-term gamble.
If the move happens, it would also carry symbolic weight.
Leeds’ return to the top flight has already been marked by ambition – the arrival of Calvert-Lewin, the free transfer of Lukas Nmecha, and continued pursuit of talents like Noah Okafor and Manor Solomon signal intent.
With Everton set to visit Elland Road on the opening weekend, there is a subplot in the making.
Beto could be lining up in white rather than blue – or perhaps not at all – while his potential replacement is unveiled as the man to lead the line alongside Calvert-Lewin.
Should the Greek forward adapt as well as Leeds’ recruitment team believes, this could be the start of a formidable partnership.
Calvert-Lewin’s aerial power and hold-up play, paired with Ioannidis’ mobility and link-up ability, would give Leeds a blend of physical presence and tactical intelligence few Premier League sides could match.
For Farke, who has shown a willingness to tweak his system to suit his personnel, it could be the difference between another fight for survival and a push towards mid-table respectability.
And for Leeds fans, who have seen enough false dawns in recent years, it might finally be a strike duo worth getting excited about.
After competing in phases through the first Test in Chennai, Bangladesh ultimately paid the price for their top-half collapsing in the first innings, according to captain Najmul Hossain Shanto. India beat the visitors by 280 runs with over five sessions to spare. Bangladesh were bowled out for 234 in their second innings, an improvement on their 149 all out in their first. They had slipped to 40 for 5 on the second afternoon, a phase of play that Shanto believes cost them the game.”We didn’t bat well in the first innings”, Shanto said. “It was a very important phase of the game. We could have been in a better position if we had at least one [big] top-order partnership. There will always be a challenge for the top order to do well, especially in the first innings. It is important to see how we are coping with it. We are working towards it but we are not getting the desired results.”The top order recovered slightly in the second attempt on the third day when openers Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam added 62 runs, although in pursuit of a stiff 515.Related
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“It is important to spend the time in the wicket but it wasn’t enough [today],” Shanto said. “Still, it will help for the second Test. It was very important for the openers to put on 62 runs. That’s one thing we can look forward to in the next Test match.”Shanto scored his first Test fifty in 11 innings and finished with 82 which included eight fours and three sixes. While that will encourage the visitors, he believes he could have done much better.”That’s usually how I bat in these type of conditions. I was clear with my plan. I think everyone has a different plan. I hope they (India) will plan differently in the next match,” he said.Unlike his nervous start in the first innings, Shanto adjusted to the pace of the game quite well in the second. He attacked R Ashwin as the rough outside his off stump was relatively benign on the third afternoon. He quickly reached his half-century too, off 55 balls, while others like Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan struggled to tackle the Indian bowling.Shanto’s scoring pattern in his Test career has been all or nothing. Out of his 57 innings, he has been dismissed 32 times between the scores of 0 and 19, and on 14 occasions in the twenties and thirties. He has also frequently converted fifties into centuries. Before this Test, every time crossed the seventies, he got to his century. His 82 in Chennai was the first time he got out in the eighties in a Test innings.1:25
India ‘stood out’ despite not playing on rank turner – Manjrekar
When Bangladesh resumed the fourth day on 158 for 4, Shanto found Mohammed Siraj tough to negotiate. He played out a couple of maiden overs, and only got Siraj away for a pulled four in the 46th over.”The morning session was tough today. The way Siraj was bowling. They were all bowling really well. Shakib also batted well. We tried to contribute for the team. We tried to bat as long as we could. Today’s morning session was one positive thing. We didn’t bat well after that,” Shanto said.When India captain Rohit Sharma brought on Ashwin, who had already taken three wickets on the third day, the stand between Shakib and Shanto was broken, which triggered the collapse of six wickets for 40 runs.”I think it was quite challenging to bat today. They were bowling in the rough. I don’t want to use it as an excuse. These are challenges we have to take,” said Shanto, who was the eighth wicket to fall but by then the writing was on the wall.Bangladesh’s openers had earlier bounced back with an encouraging effort on the third day. Similar to how they played in Rawalpindi in the second Test against Pakistan, both Zakir and Shadman offered a straighter bat to the ball, kept their cool in the initial exchanges and got off to a quick start. But just like it happened in Rawalpindi, both fell after building a solid platform.While Shanto said that he wants the openers to play their “natural game”, batting coach David Hemp said on the third day that the openers are still in the phase of working on their starts at the crease.”It goes without saying that you need to start well and once you have faced 20 or 30 balls, you get a bit of idea of what’s happening,” Hemp said. “You want to go on from that, especially when you scored 30 or 40 runs. You have done the hard work, so make sure you cash in. We did it in patches in Pakistan.”We will keep working on it in practice. We have to get ourselves in first, as that’s something we haven’t done well enough. If you go back to March [against Sri Lanka], we were not doing well enough. So we are doing that better now. But once you get to 40-60 balls, ideally you bat 120 balls. When you do that, you will walk away with a reasonable reward.”The openers’ mini-fightback and Shanto’s knock were the only two aspects of their batting that will give Bangladesh some confidence on their way to Kanpur. At the same time though, the top-half’s abject failure in the first innings will haunt them until they get it right. Several batters need to step up. Otherwise Bangladesh could be staring down the barrel again.
Tottenham Hotspur will be expected to be fighting for Europe once again next season, with Thomas Frank the man who’s been tasked with taking the side back up the table.
The Dane was appointed as the Lilywhites’ new boss last month after owner Daniel Levy decided to fork out £10m to prise him out of his contract at Brentford.
He’s showcased in the Premier League that he’s capable of overachieving, helping the Bees register a top-half finish despite losing top scorer Ivan Toney last summer.
He will likely have much bigger funds to spend after taking the reins in North London, needing to make the changes he desires if he is to be a success in the role.
Frank has already wasted no time in identifying key options to help him in his quest at the club, already edging ever closer to landing his first signing since replacing Ange Postecoglou.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer
Mohammed Kudus has been a player of huge interest in recent weeks and a deal for the West Ham United star was officially confirmed by the club on Thursday evening.
£55m appears to be the golden number between the two clubs, with the Ghanaian now arriving as Frank’s first addition this summer.
However, other moves have also been made in recent days, with Morgan Gibbs-White set to put pen to paper after the Lilywhites activated his £60m release clause at Nottingham Forest.
Another Premier League star could be inbound too, with Yoane Wissa potentially following Frank to Spurs, according to BBC Sport.
They claim that talks have been held over a deal to land the Congolese international striker, who managed to score 19 times in his 35 league appearances last campaign.
The report also states that the player himself is extremely keen on a move to link up with his former boss, but they are demanding a fee in the region of £50m to part ways with the 28-year-old this summer.
Why Spurs’ £50m target would be the dream CF for Kudus
Soon-to-be Spurs star Kudus is a player who will undoubtedly bring excitement to the fanbase in North London, given his spell in England with West Ham.
West Ham United's MohammedKuduscelebrates
The 24-year-old has registered 19 goals over the last two years since his move from Ajax, often catching the eye with his mazy runs and incredible solo efforts.
He’s often scored numerous times after dribbling past the opposition effortlessly, but arguably his best strike was his bicycle kick against Manchester City in the 2023/24 campaign.
His pending move to the Tottenham Hotspur stadium would be a big-money one, no doubt, but one that would be worth every penny if he can replicate his form from the London Stadium.
Kudus could also link up with Wissa if he also completes a move, with the pair having the prospect of helping the Lilywhites rise up the Premier League table in 2025/26.
The Brentford star, who’s been labelled “remarkable” by journalist Zach Lowy, managed to score four goals with his head last campaign, something which could fall perfectly into the Ghanaian’s hands given his cross success rate of 26% last season.
Wissa also managed to register 1.3 shots on target per 90, able to link up with the £55m addition next season, especially considering his tally of 1.2 chances created per 90.
Yoane Wissa’s PL stats for Brentford (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)
Tally
Games played
35
Goals scored
19
Shots on target per 90
1.3
Aerials won
46%
Pass accuracy
80%
Touches in opposition box
5.2
Fouls won
1.6
Stats via FotMob
The Congolese star has further impressed by winning 46% of the aerials he’s entered, a superb record considering he’s not the tallest of players, standing at just 5”9.
Whilst it may be an expensive addition at around £50m this summer, it’s evident that Wissa would be a phenomenal addition given his previous spell in England’s top-flight.
The prospect of the Brentford talent linking up with Kudus in North London is one for the fanbase to get excited about, with the club potentially possessing two of the division’s leading talents going into 2025/26.
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Liverpool haven’t made any midfield signings this summer after Jurgen Klopp’s successful rebuild of 2023, welcoming Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo to the squad.
One of the hallmarks of FSG’s ownership has been expertly planned transfer activity, with the Reds rarely missing the mark as they make shrewd signings or offload a player who has struggled to perform as they once did.
Last summer, Liverpool were expected to invest heavily after Klopp decided to call time on his historic career as the club’s manager, but Federico Chiesa was the only addition, joining for a cut-price £12.5m fee as he approached the final year of his contract with Juventus.
Federico Chiesa in action for Liverpool
Liverpool went against the grain of public opinion, content with their fold, but they did try to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, only to fail to convince the Spain international to leave Basque Country.
Why Liverpool wanted Martin Zubimendi
When Fabinho and Jordan Henderson left Liverpool to go to Saudi Arabia in deals which combined for a total of £52m, it was crucial that Liverpool bolstered their ranks with new quality.
They might have missed out on Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, both joining Chelsea in high-profile moves, but Liverpool won’t regret such misses in hindsight.
bruno-guimaraes-fabinho-liverpool-opinion
Mac Allister and Endo held down the fort remarkably well, but one year on, a recognised starting number six was needed to fit Slot’s system, and Zubimendi fit the bill.
However, the 26-year-old rejected Liverpool’s advances, with his imminent transfer to Arsenal frustrating to witness. However, the failed attempt has been tempered considerably by Ryan Gravenberch’s meteoric rise.
Matches (starts)
26 (12)
37 (37)
Goals
1
0
Assists
0
4
Touches*
28.8
66.5
Pass completion
83%
89%
Key passes*
0.6
0.7
Dribbles*
0.9
1.0
Ball recoveries*
2.8
5.2
Tackles + interceptions*
1.5
3.5
Duels (won)*
2.8 (47%)
5.0 (57%)
Gravenberch was incredible in a new role across the 2024/25 campaign, refashioned by Slot.
However, there’s no question that he looked tired toward the end of the term, and thus it’s understandable that Liverpool sign a new midfielder to contest for that starting spot in the deep-lying midfield berth.
Liverpool submit bid for new midfielder
According to reports from Spain, Liverpool have joined Chelsea and Bayer Leverkusen in submitting official offers for Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado.
Barcelona's Marc Casado against Benfica.
The 21-year-old, who graduated from the famed La Masia academy, has become a household name over the past year at Camp Nou, with his silky performances in the centre in turn drawing suitors who might be looking to take advantage of Hansi Flick’s packed midfield.
Indeed, valued at €40m (£35m), Barcelona are expected to consider the bids as they look to ease their ongoing financial problems.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Why Liverpool want Marc Casado
Casado is at the start of a promising career, with his intelligence, technical quality on the ball and passion in defensive phases suggesting he could be a fantastic addition to a Liverpool squad already well stocked in midfield.
FC Barcelona's MarcCasadocelebrates scoring their second goal with teammates
Praised for his “incredible season” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Casado battled his way into prominent standing within Flick’s first-team squad, clinching the La Liga title in his first term as a regular.
He started 27 matches across La Liga and the Champions League last season, instrumental in establishing this new era at La Blaugrana. Injury cut his season short, however, with the setback playing into the current rumours, for Frenkie de Jong, Gavi and Marc Bernal have all played important parts since.
He impressed with his calculated passing and confidence in winning possession back, completing 90% of his passes and winning 58% of his ground duels, as per Sofascore.
With such a skill set, Liverpool might finally be able to sign their own version of Zubimendi, one whose younger and less developed skills could be wrought into the shape that Slot desires.
His long ball-playing style certainly differs from Gravenberch’s, ranked as he was among the top 7% of midfielders across Europe’s top five leagues last term for passes attempted, the top 8% for pass completion, the top 10% for assists and the top 9% for tackles per 90, as per FBref.
In this manner, his similarities with Arsenal-bound Zubimendi are underscored.
Liverpool have already run checks on a more refined version of the two-cap Spain international, who is his compatriot besides, and thus will be confident that they would get their mitts on the right type of player in Casado, one who could jockey for a starting berth with Gravenberch over the coming years.
He’s scarcely into his professional career, but already Casado has demonstrated that his talents are best utilised from that deep midfield role, though his passing and athleticism lend themselves to a makeshift right-back service, if and when called upon.
Deep-lying midfield
100
1
6
Right-back
11
–
2
Central midfield
5
–
–
Zubimendi would have been a brilliant addition, but it wasn’t to be. Former Spain manager, Luis de la Fuente, described the La Real star as one of the “best central midfielders in the world” after his part in winning his nation the EURO 2024.
However, Casado would be a cheaper addition with immense potential to reach and then eclipse his countryman’s level. Liverpool have plenty of midfield options and thus won’t bear much frustration over missing out on Zubimendi, who will cost the Gunners something in the region of £51m.
Though FSG won’t be focusing on strengthening Liverpool’s midfield in the transfer market this summer, there’s no question that if the right opportunity arises, Hughes will push ahead to secure a shrewd signing.
And Casado could prove an astute addition indeed, with the Reds already placing an official offer as they look to tempt the Spanish champions to cash in.
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Liverpool are stepping up their search for a new centre-back…
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.
Harvey Elliott celebrates for Liverpool
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.
Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez
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.
Liverpool forward Luis Diaz
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.
Liverpool striker Luis Suarez celebrates
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 winger Luis Diaz
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.
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Liverpool may yet enter the transfer market for a right-sided forward this summer.
In a major boost, Manchester United have now reportedly been contacted with the chance to sign one of their top summer targets at a bargain price, which could tempt INEOS into a deal.
Man Utd's Europa League charge "not the issue" – Amorim
Somehow, some way, all hope is not lost for 16th-place Manchester United. Despite being closer to the relegation zone than the top five, the Red Devils have one last chance to salvage some pride and receive the undeniable boost of Champions League football courtesy of the Europa League. Now under a week away from their meeting with a Tottenham Hotspur side equally as desperate for victory, it cannot be overstated just how important the final will be.
Whilst Ruben Amorim will be more aware than most of next week’s importance, he’s been keen to reiterate that Manchester United’s season has been a failure with or without victory in the Europa League.
The Portuguese manager told reporters: “I think… Are we supposed to feel a manager of Manchester United in that position, embarrassed, and it’s hard to accept. And I think everybody has to think seriously about a lot of things here.
“Everybody is thinking about the final, the final is not the issue in this moment in our club, we have bigger, bigger things to think [about]. And we have to change a lot of things in the end of the season.”
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Amorim is reportedly a huge fan.
ByTom Cunningham May 15, 2025
That said, there’s no denying that victory in the Europa League is likely to ease the pressure on Amorim and allow Manchester United to welcome some much-needed reinforcements this summer.
Just who those reinforcements are remains to be seen, but it’s clear that another overhaul is needed at Old Trafford and one Ligue 1 star would be the perfect player to commence that rebuild.
Man Utd offered chance to sign Cherki
According to Caught Offside, Manchester United have now been contacted with the chance to sign Rayan Cherki by the Frenchman’s agent ahead of the summer transfer window. Available at the bargain price of just £19m in the coming months, Cherki has found himself on Manchester United’s radar as a top target more than once in recent weeks, with INEOS now reportedly tempted to swoop in and secure his signature.
Earning praise from football talent scout Jacek Kulig for a “magnificent” season, Cherki would be the perfect fit for Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system at Manchester United.
Rayan Cherki
Ready-made to slot straight into one of the two No.10 roles behind the lone striker, the Frenchman would finally help the Red Devils to rediscover their attacking spark if he completed a summer switch.
Chelsea have now joined the race for a “top” goalkeeper, who has been recommended by club legend Didier Drogba, according to a report.
Maresca's goalkeeper problem at Chelsea
Goalkeeper has been a problem position for Enzo Maresca this season, with the manager rotating between Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen, who have both made errors leading to goals in the Premier League.
Sanchez has made four costly mistakes, which have made the Spaniard the subject of some heavy criticism, and it now appears as though Maresca could look to bring in a replacement in the summer transfer window.
AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan is one of the most recent players to join the shortlist, with the Frenchman potentially set to be available for just £34m, given that his contract is set to expire in the summer of 2026.
Chelsea now want £30m Milan star with "incredible speed" ahead of Man City
The Blues have set their sights on a defender, but there could be fierce competition for his signature…
ByDominic Lund Apr 13, 2025
The Blues have made contact over a deal for Maignan, indicating the AC Milan shot-stopper is a serious target for Maresca, but an alternative option has now entered the frame, according to a report from Football Insider.
The player in question is Angers goalkeeper Yahia Fofana, with Chelsea now joining the race for the Ivory Coast international, who has established himself as one of the best young goalkeepers in Europe with his performances in Ligue 1.
Angers'YahiaFofanareacts
Fofana has no shortage of suitors, with Newcastle United, Brentford and Wolverhampton Wanderers also interested in a deal, having sent scouts to watch him in action, so there could be stiff competition for his signature.
Maresca’s side are set to conduct a scouting mission of their own this weekend, having been recommended to sign the 24-year-old by club legend Drogba, who has been impressed by his form for Angers and the Ivory Coast.
Fofana impressing in Ligue 1
Previous reports have revealed the Angers shot-stopper could be available for a fee of just £15m, which could be a bargain, given the level of his displays in Ligue 1.
Freelance scout Ben Mattinson has lauded the Ivorian as a “top” goalkeeper, while also detailing that he claims crosses well and has a good range of passing, with the latter quality perhaps particularly important if he were to play in a Maresca system.
Maresca has made it clear he wants his goalkeeper to take risks with his passing, which has led to mistakes from Sanchez this season, so the fact that Fofana is a solid passer of the ball is of key significance.
Chelsea may not choose to pursue a new goalkeeper this summer, given that Djordje Petrovic has been impressing on loan at Strasbourg, but if Maresca decides a new option is needed between the sticks, the Angers goalkeeper could be a quality signing.
Last season’s losing finalists have brought in the likes of Kishan and Shami to strengthen an already imposing squad
Ekanth16-Mar-20253:38
Chopra sees Kamindu Mendis getting a go at SRH
Where they finished last yearIn 2024, SRH made their first final in six years. They started with a bang, with five wins in their first seven games. Eventually, three more wins and an abandoned match left them tied on 17 points with Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the end of the group stage, but a superior net run rate meant SRH finished second. They then lost to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Qualifier 1, but beat RR in Qualifier 2 to make the final, where they lost to KKR again.What’s new in 2025?SRH took the IPL by storm last season with their ultra-aggressive batting approach, going past 250 three times and setting a new record for the highest total in IPL history, 287 for 3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). With Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Heinrich Klaasen and Nitish Kumar Reddy still in the line-up, and with Ishan Kishan added during the auction, SRH are unlikely to change their template.While they have that stellar top five, SRH are short on depth among local batters. Aniket Verma is in his debut season, Abhinav Manohar played just two games in 2024, and Sachin Baby last featured in the IPL in 2021. Hence, with captain Pat Cummins, Head and Klaasen as overseas lock-ins, SRH might look to include Kamindu Mendis to shore up their line-up.Although SRH retained Cummins and signed back Jaydev Unadkat after initially releasing him, they will have an otherwise new-look bowling attack in 2025. Cummins and Unadkat now have the company of Mohammed Shami, Harshal Patel and Rahul Chahar. Shami is likely to take the new ball, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar, their mainstay since 2014, no longer with SRH. Among overseas bowlers, SRH can choose from Adam Zampa and allrounder Wiaan Mulder, while Reddy, Abhishek, Head and Kamindu could chip in with a few overs too.Related
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Likely best XII1 Travis Head*, 2 Abhishek Sharma, 3 Ishan Kishan (wk), 4 Nitish Kumar Reddy, 5 Heinrich Klaasen*, 6 Aniket Verma, 7 Abhinav Manohar, 8 Pat Cummins* (capt), 9 Harshal Patel, 10 Rahul Chahar, 11 Mohammed Shami, 12 Adam Zampa* Full SRH squadBig questionWatch out forAbhishek and Head blew oppositions away last season and took the idea of maximising the powerplay to dizzying heights. But the duo couldn’t carry their sizzling form into their last four games, across which they added just 15 runs. However, if SRH get lift-off from their openers even in half their games this season, opposition attacks could have nowhere to hide.Mohammed Shami took 28 wickets in the powerplay at an average of 21.25 and an economy of 7.08 across the 2022 and 2023 IPL seasons. But an ankle injury, which required surgery, kept him out of cricket for over a year. Since his return, he has bowled in the powerplay in four T20s and picked up two wickets. He then proved his fitness and form by taking nine wickets in 41 overs during the Champions Trophy. If he stays fit and can strike with the new ball regularly, SRH won’t feel Bhuvneshwar’s absence as much.Since his return following ankle surgery, Mohammed Shami has taken 14 wickets in 11 T20s•BCCIKey stats Since his return following ankle surgery, Shami has taken 14 wickets across 11 T20s for Bengal and India. He has averaged 23.50, and had an economy rate of 8.02. Abhishek Sharma has a strike rate of 200.86 in the 28 games he has played since the end of IPL 2024. He has scored three hundreds during that period, two of which have come in his last six games.Who’s out or in doubt?Cummins missed the Champions Trophy with an ankle injury, but has started bowling again. He did not require surgery, and recovered through rehab. Last year’s MLC final, which took place in July, was Cummins’ last T20 appearance. With the WTC final and a Test tour to the West Indies coming up after the IPL, Australia will hope Cummins remains injury-free through the IPL.Brydon Carse injured his left toe during England’s tour of India prior to the Champions Trophy, which led to SRH bringing in Mulder as his replacement.