All posts by n8rngtd.top

Glasgow Rangers officially confirmed the first signing of the Russell Martin era last week when they unveiled Max Aarons as their latest arrival.

The right-back has joined on a season-long loan from Bournemouth to bolster the manager’s options at right-back, becoming the second signing of the summer after Lyall Cameron, who agreed to join in January.

Although Martin has never managed him before, the former England U21 international is a player the manager knows well from their time together as players at Norwich City in England.

The boss told the Rangers website: “Max is a player who I have always kept a keen eye on since he was emerging through the youth ranks while I was coming to the end of my time at Norwich as a player. He is a wonderfully talented player who is hungry to develop, improve and help deliver success for his side.”

The English full-back is now looking to kick on and get back to his best on the pitch after a difficult couple of years since moving on from Norwich in 2023.

Why Max Aarons is a risky signing for Rangers

On the one hand, this is a relatively low-risk signing for the Light Blues in the sense that he is only on loan for the season and they do not have an obligation to make it permanent next summer.

This means that the Gers will not have wasted millions of pounds on a long-term deal if Aarons ends up struggling and failing to make the grade in Glasgow.

On the other hand, it is a risky signing for Martin through the lens of next season, because the way the last two years have gone for the defender suggests that there are no guarantees that he will be a success.

Aarons has missed 17 matches through injury and only played 31 times in all competitions since the start of the 2023/24 campaign, including nine appearances this term.

This shows that Rangers have brought in a full-back who has not played much football in the last two years, whilst suffering through injuries, and his last two successful seasons, with Norwich, came in the 2018/19 and 2020/21 campaigns.

As you can see in the table above, Aarons showed his quality in and out of possession at right-back for the Canaries in those two title-winning seasons in the Championship, but it has been years since that success.

This is why the 25-year-old gem is a risky signing with next season in mind, despite having the potential to be a key player, given how long it has been since his last successful campaign.

Rangers in talks to sign English defender

Rangers, however, are also eyeing up another defender from England who would arrive with less risk attached and be a better signing for Martin.

Transfer Focus

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

According to the Daily Record, talks are still ongoing between the Scottish Premiership giants and Championship side Leicester City over a deal for Conor Coady.

The report claims that Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises have invested £20m to bolster the club’s budget for the summer transfer window, yet it remains to be seen how much of that budget will be eaten up by a move for the former England international.

Coady’s current contract at the King Power is due to expire in the summer of 2026, and the ongoing talks suggest that the Foxes will not allow him to leave on a free transfer earlier than expected, which means that the Gers will have to pay a fee for his services.

It now remains to be seen whether or not the Ibrox side will be able to reach an agreement with Leicester to bring the centre-back to Glasgow this summer.

Why Conor Coady would be a better signing than Max Aarons

If Rangers can get a deal over the line for Coady in the coming days or weeks then they will land an even better signing than Aarons for the defence.

As aforementioned, it has been several years since the former Norwich starlet enjoyed a successful season on the pitch, as he has been a bit-part player for Bournemouth, and on loan at Valencia, in the last two years.

Coady, however, played 22 times in the Premier League for Leicester last season and helped the Foxes to secure the Championship title in the previous term.

In the 2023/24 campaign, the veteran central defender showcased his impressive quality in possession in a ball-dominant Enzo Maresca side in the second tier in England, which speaks to his suitability for a possession-oriented Martin style of play.

As you can see in the table above, the 32-year-old titan was one of the best centre-backs in the league, if not the best, at progressing the ball through the thirds to build up attacks for his team.

These statistics suggest that Coady, who was lauded as an “immaculate professional” by ex-manager Sean Dyche, would be the perfect fit for Martin’s style of play, as he can ensure that dominating possession does not involve constant sideways and backwards passing, with his progressive play at the back.

These performances were also in the 2023/24 campaign, which means that he has demonstrable success on the pitch in a recent season, unlike Aarons, whilst the centre-back also completed 91% of his passes in the Premier League for the Foxes last season, which suggests that he would not be as risky of a signing.

At the age of 32, Coady would arrive as an experienced and proven performer who could hit the ground running on and off the pitch as a leader for the Light Blues, which is another reason why he could be an even better signing than Aarons.

A Bassey repeat at Ibrox: Rangers agree deal to sign a new "sensation"

Rangers have reportedly agreed a deal to sign a star who could be a repeat of Calvin Bassey.

By
Dan Emery

Jun 30, 2025

The former Wolverhampton Wanderers captain has quality on and off the ball, fits the style of play, has recent success on the pitch, and brings leadership qualities, and all these attributes come together to explain why this could be a good move for the club.

Manchester United have come to such a pass that the first few post-Fergie years could be recalled as if the halcyon days.

Last season, Erik ten Hag was dismissed at the end of October following a wretched start to the season, winning only three of their opening nine Premier League fixtures; however, the worst was yet to come.

Ruben Amorim has been put through the wringer since packing his bags at Sporting Lisbon, where he had mined such riches, established the Leões as Portugal’s defining current side, but has since struggled to get a tune from his Red Devils side, who languished to a 15th-place finish in the league and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham.

It’s no surprise the manager, seeking to employ an aggressive high-pressing system, wanted to stay in his homeland until the end of the 2024/25 season, but was informed by INEOS it was “now or never”.

All very doom and gloom, yada yada yada. However, Man United are massive and will be looking to turn a corner over the coming months as they prepare for a clean slate.

Indeed, that famous Old Trafford pull remains intact and, moreover, a new strategy has been fashioned to better the chances of a revival.

Man Utd's new transfer strategy

It’s telling that Matheus Cunha, one of the most dangerous forwards in the Premier League last season, barricaded himself away from the interest of Arsenal and of Aston Villa. He shielded himself from the temptation of a bumper paycheck in the Saudi Pro League. And why?

Man United came calling, of course, activating Cunha’s £62.5m release clause. Amorim has a new star man to tinker with next term, one hailed for his “absolutely sensational” football IQ by Micah Richards on Match of the Day last season, the pundit continuing to call him the “best at everything” at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

And that’s not all. Bryan Mbeumo may well be joining the new United project, having informed Champions League-qualified sides like Arsenal, Newcastle United and Tottenham of his preference to move from Brentford to the Theatre of Dreams this summer.

The 25-year-old scored 20 goals across 38 league games last year and has already been the subject of a failed bid from United, though they will continue to push for the forward, who is rated in excess of £60m.

However, Spurs will too, and having appointed Thomas Frank to replace Ange Postecoglou, the narrative has changed somewhat: he’s giving the Londoners his consideration.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his band of suits will remain calm and confident, but a back-up plan wouldn’t go amiss.

Man United line up Mbeumo alternative

As per ESPN, Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo has been shortlisted by Jason Wilcox as a dreamy alternative to Mbeumo, having been on the club’s radar for a few months at this stage.

United’s Chief Executive Officer, Omar Berrada, is determined not to pay beyond a reasonable price point for Brentford’s talisman, thus suggesting Semenyo, 25, could be an interesting fallback, given he’s available for slightly less at £50m. Tottenham have also been credited as admirers.

Man United might be prioritising the signing of Mbeumo, but in Semenyo, they might actually find an even better fit for Amorim’s system.

Why Antoine Semenyo could be perfect for Amorim

Bournemouth signed Semenyo from Championship side Bristol City for £10.5m in January 2023, and they haven’t looked back.

The appointment of Andoni Iraola has been the making of him, having notched 19 goals and nine assists across the past two Premier League seasons, including 17 direct contributions from 34 matches across the recent campaign.

Not just a potent threat, Semenyo could rival Mbeumo in underlying qualities, perhaps with fleeter feet and a steelier ball-carrying game, which may well lead to him being the better pick for Amorim’s project, playing on the right side of a centre-forward who has yet to be welcomed to the fold.

That is to say, Semenyo is not just a driven striker at goal but also a committed defensive force, ranking among the top 3% of positional peers in the Premier League last year for blocks, the top 23% for clearances and the top 8% for aerial duels won per 90, as per FBref.

He also averaged 6.1 successful duels per game, as per Sofascore, whereas Mbeumo, another combative forward, won 4.7 per match. It is for this reason, then, that Semenyo has been declared a “duel monster” and a “workhorse off the ball” by analyst Ben Mattinson.

Make no mistake, at times across the past year, Mbeumo has simply been “unplayable” in the final third, as was marvelled by Frank following a 4-2 win over Newcastle.

But Semenyo is faster, more physical and, perhaps, a more dynamic attacking threat given his propensity to succeed across a range of attacking positions.

Ultimately, either signing would illustrate nicely Man United’s refined transfer strategy, securing the signatures of Premier League-proven players.

Goals were in short supply last year, Amorim’s frontline at times a picture of an arid desert: dry, isolated and showing only a mirage of newfound attacking inspiration, before lapsing back into old ways.

But Semenyo would change that, partnering Cunha in the manager’s three-forked offensive line. His robust athleticism, eagerness to fire consistent shots off, and indeed his defensive work rate align with Amorim’s tactical principles, with that latter element sure to be instrumental in getting the notorious three-man backline up and running.

“Elegant, graceful and powerful,” as Jamie Redknapp says, this forward’s got the lot, and is only going to get better over the coming years.

Better than Ekitike: Man Utd open talks to sign "the best ST on the market"

Manchester United could be edging closer to ending their hunt for a new striker this summer.

2

By
Ethan Lamb

Jun 16, 2025

A “spectacular” player has now “said yes” to a move to Brighton & Hove Albion, with an approach set to be made in the next few days, according to reporter Santi Aouna.

Brighton could still play in Europe amid Crystal Palace issues

There are doubts over whether Crystal Palace will be allowed to play in the Europa League next season, amid issues surrounding multi-club ownership, and bitter rivals Brighton could be the beneficiaries.

Indeed, courtesy of their eighth-placed finish in the Premier League last season, the Seagulls could replace Palace in the competition, should they be removed by UEFA, although football finance expert Kieran Maguire believes the Eagles have a 95% chance of taking part.

As such, the chances of Fabian Hurzeler’s side embarking on a European adventure are slim, but the manager is clearly keen to inject some quality into his squad this summer regardless, having now made inroads towards signing a new midfielder.

Every completed Premier League deal in the 2025/26 summer transfer window

Find every top-flight deal this summer here.

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By
Stephan Georgiou

Jul 17, 2025

That is according to an update from Foot Mercato’s Aouna on X, who has revealed that Marseille midfielder Azzedine Ounahi has “already said yes” to a move to the American Express Stadium this summer, with a verbal agreement in place on a four-year deal.

Having spoken directly to the Brighton board, Ounahi was convinced by the project on offer, and the Seagulls are set to approach Marseille in the coming days, in order to strike a deal.

It is unclear what sort of fee the French side would be looking to receive for the midfielder, but they signed the former Angers man for a fee of €8m (£7m) back in January 2023, which could be a good reference point.

"Spectacular" Ounahi could get career back on track at Brighton

The Moroccan may have been expected to kick on after the 2022 World Cup, having played a key role in his side becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-final stage, impressing Luis Enrique with some of his performances.

The Paris Saint-Germain manager described the maestro as “spectacular” after the round of 16, and he has since gone on to catch the eye on loan at Greek side Panathinaikos, performing extremely well across some key statistics for midfielders over the past year.

Of course, performing well in Greece does not necessarily mean the Morocco international will be a sure-fire success in the Premier League, but he is certainly exhibiting promising signs, and he could get his career back on track at the American Express Stadium.

Having displayed a keen eye for picking up assists, while also being lauded for his “defensive reliability” by scout Jacek Kulig in the past, Ounahi is clearly a well-rounded midfielder, and it is promising news that he has now agreed terms on a move to Brighton.

The 2025/26 campaign will be all change for Wolverhampton Wanderers. After a strong end to last season for Vitor Pereira’s side, the Old Gold promptly lost their two biggest names, Matheus Cunha, who switched to Manchester United and Rayan Ait-Nouri, who joined their rivals, Manchester City.

Now, the West Midlands side will have to recruit well and pick themselves up to build on what was an impressive end to the season. Under Pereira, they went from relegation candidates to one of the inform sides, going unbeaten in eight of the final 11 top-flight games.

The transfer window reopens on Monday, giving Wolves the chance to reshape their squad ahead of a huge campaign in 2025/26. Here is a look at their dream lineup next season, with some of those potential new additions.

1

GK – Jose Sa

The man between the sticks once again next term for the Old Gold will surely be Jose Sa. The Portugal international just won the Nations League for the second time with his country, and will surely be hoping to carry that form into the new Premier League season.

Last campaign, Sa started off shakily and was actually dropped from the starting lineup by former boss Gary O’Neil. However, his performances picked up, and he ended the season with seven clean sheets to his name in 29 games.

2

CB – Santiago Bueno

Santiago Bueno’s future at Molineux isn’t as clear-cut as others in this side. Wolves may well recruit at centre-back, but with the need to replace Cunha and Ait-Nouri, they might not have the money left over.

The Uruguay international played 29 games in the Premier League last season, but his involvement definitely decreased under Pereira. However, his performance at Old Trafford at the end of the campaign was described as “assured” by journalist Liam Keen. Perhaps the new boss will have seen enough promise in that to show faith.

3

CB – Toti

A key man at the back for the Old Gold last season was Toti, and it seems like he will be one of their first-choice defenders again in 2025/26. His role in this side is as the central centre-back in Pereira’s back-three system.

Last season, Toti, who has also played international football for Portugal, made 31 Premier League appearances. He also captained the side in their penultimate game of the season, showing excellent leadership skills and trust from the manager.

4

CB – Emmanuel Agbadou

A January addition for the Old Gold, Emmanuel Agbadou, was impressive during his first few months in the Premier League. He played 18 times in all competitions, helping his side to five clean sheets and even managing to get himself on the scoresheet.

He has certainly made a great impression during his short stint in the West Midlands. Journalist Nathan Judah said he was “one of the signings of the season” before going on to say that “he looks so comfortable” playing in the English top flight. A great start to life at Molineux.

5

RWB – Nelson Semedo

It is imperative for Wolves that they manage to keep Nelson Semedo at Molineux this summer. The club “have made an offer” to their captain, with his contract set to expire in a few months time. They can’t afford to lose such an experienced player.

Semedo was crucial for both O’Neil and Pereira last term, taking over the captaincy halfway through and dealing with that situation admirably. He played 34 Premier League games and grabbed four assists. Given this is a dream lineup, let’s assume he chooses to stay in the West Midlands. He would certainly be a huge loss.

6

CM – Andre

After his summer move to Molineux from Fluminense last summer, Andre really grew into his role in that Wolves midfield. Football analyst Ben Mattinson said he “quietly had a really good season” for the Old Gold, praising him for his technical ability in possession. As per FBref, he averaged 3.96 progressive passes per game, highlighting exactly what Mattinson meant.

In total, the Brazilian, who is a full international for his country, made 33 Premier League appearances last season. He played 90 minutes on 11 occasions under Pereira, showing just how much he trusts the midfielder.

7

CM – Joao Gomes

The other half of Wolves’ Brazilian pivot is Joao Gomes. The former Flamengo man was a key member of the Old Gold midfield, playing 36 games and using his extra attacking responsibility well, scoring three goals and grabbing an assist.

If some of Andre’s statistics stand out, then Gomes’ certainly do. He played the most progressive passes among his teammates last season, with 165, and topped the charts for tackles and interceptions, with 141, just pipping Andre in second, who notched up 128. That is a midfield pairing that will be crucial to Wolves’ success next season.

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LWB – Gerard Martin

Finally, we reach the first new signing of this Wolves dream lineup. That man is Barcelona left-back Gerard Martin. According to a report from one Spanish news outlet, the Old Gold have ‘expressed interest’ in signing Martin this summer. They suggest that an offer of £10m or more would be enough to convince the La Liga champions to sell him.

Make no mistake about it, Martin would have a tough job on his hands, replacing Ait-Nouri, “the best left back” in the Premier League, according to Wolves man Jean-Ricner Bellegarde. However, he has been in and around a fantastic environment at Barca, and played an important role under Hansi Flick last term.

In total, the 23-year-old featured 42 times for the club last season, grabbing three assists, including two against Inter in the Champions League semi-final. With the quality of delivery on show from Martin, it surely showcases just how deadly he can be as a wing-back.

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RAM – Bilal El Khannouss

The second new signing in this dream Wolves side is Leicester City star Bilal El Khannouss. GiveMeSport reported at the end of May that the Old Gold ‘have set their sights on making a move’ for the Morocco star ‘as a direct replacement for Cunha’. It is a deal that could cost them upwards of £22m.

Replacing Cunha will obviously be no easy task for whoever Wolves sign this summer, but perhaps El Khannouss is the best man for the job. After all, he is a “magician” according to football scout Antonio Mango, and that is what they are surely looking for.

At just 21 years of age, it was a seamless adaptation to the Premier League for the Morocco international last season. The Foxes’ attacking midfielder scored twice and grabbed three assists in 32 Premier League games last season, including a winning goal away to Tottenham Hotspur.

10

CF – Jorgen Strand Larsen

Jorgen Strand Larsen’s silky link-up play, which should combine superbly with El Khannouss, will still make for a great watch. Last term, he played 21 key passes in the Premier League.

The Norway star will join the club permanently after he made 35 appearances in the Premier League, enough to trigger the buy clause. In that time, he was sensational, with 14 goals and four assists, showing some of the aforementioned link-up play. Pereira will hope he can continue that excellent form into next season.

After three years of finishing in second place in the Premier League, Arsenal need to make changes over the summer if they are to mount a charge for title glory.

Mikel Arteta has taken the side to the next level since his appointment back in 2020, but their progress has somewhat stagnated given their consistent league standing.

Next season will mark 22 seasons since the Gunners last finished top of England’s top-flight, a period that’s simply unacceptable for a club of their stature.

The upcoming window presents an opportunity for the Spaniard to make any changes he needs to his current first-team squad, with investment desperately needed from the hierarchy this summer.

With the window now just around the corner, Arteta has already wasted no time in identifying reinforcements for his side – with one department in particular subject to the biggest interest.

The latest on Arsenal’s hunt for a new striker

Viktor Gyokeres has been a leading target for Arsenal over the last couple of weeks, as the club try to land the talisman they’ve desperately missed in recent years.

The Swede, who’s valued at around £60m, has a staggering record this season, scoring 54 times in his 52 outings, with Arteta’s side the ones showing the greatest desire to land the 26-year-old.

However, another name has been thrown into the mix, with RB Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko touted with a move to the Emirates, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

He claims that the hierarchy have entered concrete talks with the Bundesliga side over a summer move for the 21-year-old, who’s registered 21 goals across all competitions.

Romano has also stated that Arteta is pushing for the move to sign the Slovenian, who currently has a €100m (£84m) release clause within his current contract.

Why Sesko would be more exciting than Zubimendi

Ahead of the opening of the summer window, Arsenal have made excellent progress on numerous deals, with Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi likely to be the first to walk through the door.

The Spanish international has already agreed a move to London, with journalist Romano also confirming that Arteta’s side have agreed a fee with the LaLiga outfit.

The 26-year-old currently has a €60m (£50m) release clause in his contract, potentially seen as a replacement for the outgoing Jorginho, who’s leaving the club on a free transfer next month.

Undoubtedly, given his tally of 68% dribbles completed and 58% duels won, he could prove to be the deep-lying option the midfield has needed over recent months.

Such a signing would undoubtedly be exciting, but a deal for Sesko would inject added excitement into the fanbase, with a striker needing to be the number one priority.

Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus missed large spells of 2024/25, leaving the Gunners without a recognised striker, with Mikel Merino and Leandro Trossard often filling the void.

In the Bundesliga this campaign, the Slovenian has demonstrated his quality, scoring 13 goals in his 33 outings – including a goal of the season contender against Werder Bremen.

His underlying stats have been just as impressive, registering 1.2 shots on target per 90, along with 0.5 goals scored per game – highlighting the threat he carries in attacking areas.

Sesko, who’s been labelled a “monster” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has also completed 55% of the dribbles he’s attempted, along with 57% aerials won – handing Arteta the needed all-round option in North London.

Whilst he would cost the hierarchy a pretty penny this summer, he’s demonstrated that he’s capable of leading the line in the Premier League and potentially playing a key role in any future success.

The prospect of him linking up with Zubimendi at the Emirates is certainly an exciting one, with the striker hopefully able to provide the needed difference to catapult them to the top of the tree in 2025/26.

Better than Sesko & Gyokeres: Arteta wants Arsenal to sign £100m "bagsman"

The sensational striker would utterly transform Arsenal.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

May 29, 2025

Liverpool are reportedly at risk of losing an off-field “genius” this summer, amid claims that a Saudi Pro League club are interested in snapping him up.

A busy summer awaits at Liverpool

After some relatively quiet summers in recent years, under both Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot, this upcoming transfer window has the potential to be the busiest in a long time at Anfield, with lots of funds set to come the Reds’ way.

Jeremie Frimpong is believed to be closing in on a move to Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen, filling the upcoming void that will be left by Trent Alexander-Arnold, not to mention also being able to thrive as a right-winger.

Meanwhile, the Reds are said to have held talks with Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez over a summer switch, with the Hungarian seen as the leading option to be Andy Robertson’s long-term successor on Merseyside.

There are also expected to be plenty of summer exits alongside Alexander-Arnold, with doubts over the futures of players all over the pitch, from Jarell Quansah to Darwin Nunez. It is going to be a busy period for the likes of Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes behind the scenes, but now a major update has dropped regarding the former.

Liverpool at risk of losing "genius" Edwards after Saudi approach

According to a worrying update from Give Me Sport journalist Ben Jacobs, Liverpool CEO of Football Edwards is wanted by Saudi club Al-Ahli, as they look to steal him away from the Reds this summer.

The report claims that the transfer guru has been “approached” by them to “discuss a senior role” there, adding that they “hold a firm desire to try and appoint Edwards, even though he is relatively new to his current job” at Anfield, having previously been sporting director there. Edwards isn’t actively looking to leave Merseyside, however, he “does see appeal in speaking to clubs wishing to overhaul their sporting department”.

Losing Edwards would be an undoubted blow for Liverpool and FSG, considering his reputation in the game, being considered as one of the best sporting directors of his generation, masterminding the signings of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, among others.

His influence hasn’t been lost on former Reds CEO Peter Moore, who has said of him: “Analytical genius. The ability to look at data and then look at the players. This is why I bring up the Dave Fallows and the Barry Hunters, it’s one thing looking at data but you need boots on the ground and eyes on the pitch.”

Hopefully, Edwards will feel that he is still new to his CEO role and has plenty more to achieve at Liverpool, but the financial lure of the Saudi Pro League is obvious.

Not just Quansah: Liverpool must axe 6/10 flop who was "so funny to watch"

Liverpool were defeated by Brighton in the Premier League.

By
Angus Sinclair

May 20, 2025

It would be a step in the wrong direction if he did decide to once again leave Liverpool for a new challenge, at a time when things are going so smoothly both on and off the pitch.

A forward who was once valued at nine figures has held talks over a summer move to Chelsea, with Enzo Maresca’s side rumoured to be laying groundwork over transfers ahead of the first window on June 1.

Chelsea target quick transfer deals before Club World Cup

The Blues will be taking part in this year’s edition of the Club World Cup, and it has been reported that Chelsea could stand to receive a hefty financial windfall if they perform well in the competition.

Fabrizio Romano: Chelsea now want to sign £50m star "by the end of May"

The reliable journalist says BlueCo want a deal done as soon as possible.

By
Emilio Galantini

May 10, 2025

BlueCo are therefore taking the CWC seriously, and they’ll have a limited window to do business and officially sign players before the tournament kicks off. From June 1 to June 10, Chelsea will be able to acquire squad upgrades ahead of the CWC, before the window then reopens from June 16 to September 1.

Reports suggest the west Londoners are fully intent on completing deals in that period, with Fabrizio Romano recently stating that Chelsea want to seal a move for Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen “by the end of May”.

Chelsea are involved in an airtight battle to finish in the top five and confirm their spot in the Champions League draw for next season, and the result of this race will have a knock-on effect when it comes to their transfer plans, as confirmed by Maresca.

However, in the meantime, Chelsea remain busy with their recruitment plans as they also aim to bring in new forwards. The Stamford Bridge hierarchy wish to acquire both a new winger and a striker for Maresca, as per journalist Simon Phillips and other reliable sources, and they’re now being linked with soon-to-be out-of-contract Bayern Munich star Leroy Sane.

Leroy Sane holds talks over joining Chelsea on free deal

The £244,000-per-week Germany international was closing in on a new deal in Bavaria, but he recently changed representatives, employing super-agent Pini Zahavi.

While Sane remains open to extending his contract, Zahavi has submitted a counter-offer to their initially agreed extension – with his camp now demanding a £10m-per-year salary plus £2.5m in add-ons tied to appearances (Florian Plettenberg).

Bayern are intent on standing firm and have no intention of improving their original proposal, though, leaving the door open for Sane to potentially leave the Allianz Arena despite his excellent form over the second half of 2024/2025.

Sane is thought to be keen on a move to Chelsea as an alternative to remaining at Bayern, with journalist Graeme Bailey sharing another update to The Boot Room.

Bailey reports that Sane’s representatives have held talks over a move to Chelsea, even if he would prefer to stay at Bayern, with his contract ticking down towards expiry on June 30.

Every day that passes and no new deal is agreed, Sane’s return to the Premier League grows more likely, as the player and Vincent Kompany’s side find themselves in a stalemate.

Signing the experienced high-level forward for nothing would be a coup, especially considering he was once valued at £137 million during his time at Man City.

When Liverpool won the 2019/20 Premier League, ending thirty years of much-jeered hurt, the celebrations were muted somewhat by the restrictions imposed by the pandemic.

There were no such impediments on Sunday, with Liverpool blowing Tottenham Hotspur away to seal the top-flight title and send a city into an elated frenzy that, for many, has been a lifetime in the making.

It was a truly incredible occasion, Arne Slot coolly leading his team through the 2024/25 campaign and back toward the perch from which Liverpool last sat under Jurgen Klopp, five years ago.

Few saw it coming, but Liverpool have capitalised on Manchester City’s staggering drop-off and Arsenal’s inconsistency to steer toward their 20th title, levelling with Manchester United.

Mohamed Salah has been the on-field architect, scoring 28 goals and supplying 18 assists in the league alone this year. The individual accolades will abound when all is said and done.

However, he’s not been alone in his brilliance. Luis Diaz has certainly earned his flowers after an immense campaign.

Luis Diaz has stepped up for Liverpool

Diaz, 28, hasn’t always been the flavour of the month at Anfield, with fans sometimes frustrated by the Colombian’s inconsistency in front of goal.

However, he’s been in fine fettle this year, posting 16 goals and eight assists across all competitions, including eight direct involvements across his past ten Premier League outings.

Though Diaz’s stock is high and there is justification within the argument that Liverpool should cash in this summer, he’s been a source of selflessness and quality all year, especially in recent weeks.

With Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa all in danger of being sold, Diaz and Salah should form a core part of Slot’s system once again.

They are brilliant forwards of varying strengths. Slot loves both of them. So much, it seems, that Liverpool are interested in signing a player who is an amalgamation of the two.

Liverpool ready to bid for new forward

According to Caught Offside, Liverpool are in the race for Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, who is expected to leave the Serie A club this summer.

Barcelona appear to have the lead in the race, having made contact with the Nigerian’s representatives, but given that his market price stands at €65m (£55m), Liverpool may see a chance to steal ahead of the financially-troubled Spaniards.

The 27-year-old also has suitors in Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Newcastle United, however, with all five interested clubs said to be ‘planning’ to hold talks ahead of a summer move.

Why Ademola Lookman could be perfect for Slot

An alleged breakdown in relationship with Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has left Lookman determined to leave the club this summer.

Last year’s hat-trick hero in the Europa League final, to be sure, has the dynamic skills that a club such as Liverpool are looking for this summer, developing a sharp goalscoring edge over the past few years to complement his athletic underlying skill set.

Hailed as a “superstar” by journalist Sean Walsh after his staggering triumph over hitherto invincible Bayer Leverkusen, Lookman is the giant-killer, the resurgent sensation who has bounced back from a tough start to life in the Premier League, never quite hitting his stride with Everton, Fulham and Leicester City.

Across the past two campaigns for the Nerazzurri, Lookman has scored 35 goals and supplied 17 assists across all competitions. His multi-facetedness suggests he would be a perfect fit in Slot’s Liverpool squad.

As per FBref, Lookman ranks among the top 1% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for goals scored, the top 2% for touches in the attacking penalty area

His combination of fleet-footedness and clinical shooting has led the data-driven site to record Salah and Diaz as two of his most comparable players, which only strengthens the argument for FSG to make their move.

Diaz might not have Salah’s predatory instinct in front of goal, but his pace, power and ability to shift between the flank and a makeshift centre-forward position have been essential this term.

Lookman is cut from a similar cloth, but one which also contains Salah’s prolificness.

Though many supporters would hope for an out-and-out number nine this summer, Lookman’s dynamism has already been proven to work within Slot’s system through the efforts of Salah and Diaz.

Moreover, his title-winning hat-trick bespeaks a propensity for the big stage, further evidence that Lookman’s electric movements and deadly outlook have been refined to a point which could see him return to the Premier League as a bona fide success.

Lookman has developed a potent quality in the danger area while bringing an intense kind of energy to the fold. It’s not out of the question, given his positional versatility, that Slot would get his hands on a hybrid version of Salah and Diaz, one who could prove the difference-maker in winning multiple major honours next year and beyond.

He can surpass Gravenberch: Liverpool ready big bid to sign £50m "machine"

Liverpool are already preparing to defend their Premier League title by making ambitious moves in the transfer market.

By
Angus Sinclair

Apr 28, 2025

Chelsea have been actively on the hunt for a new striker over the last couple of years, looking to add another dimension to Enzo Maresca’s front line as a result.

However, the hierarchy have still been unable to provide the Italian with the star he needs at the top end of the pitch, which could see the club potentially miss out on a top five place in the Premier League.

Their hunt isn’t through a lack of trying, with the hierarchy splashing over £1.3b on new additions since May 2022, handing the boss the tools needed for success.

This summer could be the perfect time for a new striker to arrive, making the side a completely different beast in their pursuit of returning to top-flight glory.

With the summer window just around the corner, numerous names have already been touted with switches to Stamford Bridge, many of which have previously been on the club’s radar.

The latest on Chelsea’s hunt for a new striker this summer

At this point, there are very few elite-level strikers who haven’t been touted with a move to join Chelsea, with the hierarchy targeting the best options for Maresca in the market.

Victor Osimhen is one player who’s been on the radar for a number of years now, with former Blue John Obi Mikel claiming that the Nigerian wants to join the club ahead of 2025/26.

No progress has been made despite such comments, but there has been movement over a potential deal for Celtic’s star man Daizen Maeda, according to TBR.

The report claims the 27-year-old has been scouted by the Blues on multiple occasions this season, with Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham also in the race for his signature.

It also goes on to state that the Japanese international is currently under contract until the summer of 2027, with the Scottish champions demanding £25m to part ways this summer.

Why Chelsea’s £25m target would be better than Jackson

Nicolas Jackson has been Chelsea’s number one option at centre-forward over the last two years after joining the club from Spanish side Villarreal back in 2023.

The Senegalese international has registered 31 goals in his 76 appearances for the Blues, with his latest two coming in the Europa Conference League triumph over Swedish side Djurgarden.

However, it hasn’t been all plain sailing for the 23-year-old, struggling with injuries throughout the last few months, resulting in a spell on the sidelines which left Maresca without a recognised striker.

Despite his tally of 12 goals across all competitions in 2024/25, the manager evidently wants a more clinical option in the final third, leading to links around Celtic talisman Maeda.

The Japanese star has scored 33 times during the current season, outscoring both Jackson and fellow transfer target Osimhen, having the tools to thrive in the Premier League.

When comparing his stats to those of the current Chelsea forward, he’s massively outperformed him to date, subsequently offering the manager the added threat he desires in attacking areas.

Maeda, who’s been labelled a “physical beast” by one of his coaches, has managed more combined goals and assists – handing the club the added attacking threat they need to take them to the next level.

He’s also completed more of the passes he’s attempted to date, whilst creating more chances than Jackson, handing other players the opportunity around him to impress within the final third.

The Celtic’s star talents haven’t stopped just there, completing more of the dribbles and winning more aerials – subsequently handing Maresca an all-round option in the attacking third.

The £25m fee for his signature could well prove to be a bargain, having the tools to cement his place at the top end of the pitch and take the Blues to the next level.

However, given the interest from elsewhere for his signature, the hierarchy will need to act quickly to avoid missing out on a deal for him, finally ending their massive hunt for a new talisman.

109 touches, 98% passing: Chelsea may have found a bigger star than George

Chelsea now have one foot in the Europa Conference League final after a 4-1 win over Djurgården last night.

1

By
Ethan Lamb

May 2, 2025

Al-Nassr have set their sights on one of Mikel Arteta’s key stars at Arsenal, according to reports, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s team said to be preparing a bumper contract offer for the player.

Arsenal set for PSG semi-final after triumph in Madrid

The Gunners will still be coming down from Wednesday, following what was a historic two-legged Champions League quarter-final win over 15-time European champions Real Madrid.

Arsenal make "ambitious" offer for £170k-p/w forward after Arteta request

The Spaniard’s personally asked for him.

By
Emilio Galantini

Apr 19, 2025

Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli’s strikes sealed a 2-1 win at the Bernabeu, right after Arsenal smashed Real 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium last week, and the result sent a statement to the rest of Europe that Arteta’s side are truly among the continent’s elite.

PSG await Arsenal in the semi-finals, with the two sides chasing their first ever Champions League title, so everything is on the line for both teams.

Arsenal surrendered the Premier League title to Liverpool this season and crashed out of both domestic cups, so failure to win the tournament will mean failure for the entirety of 2024/2025.

Victory in the Champions League will also assist new sporting director Andrea Berta when it comes to the club’s transfer activity, both financially and in a sporting sense.

Arsenal will get £21.1 million worth of prize money if they do lift the trophy, potentially bolstering Berta’s transfer kitty, but more importantly, it could also impress their most high-profile targets and convince them of Arteta’s long-term project.

As well as all of this, European bragging rights will work wonders to convince Arsenal’s key stars to commit their futures at N5.

Arsenal are working to tie down Saka with a new deal (BBC), while it is believed star centre-back duo William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes are also set to be offered lucrative fresh terms.

“Deals for Saliba, Gabriel and Saka are pretty high on the agenda,” said journalist Graeme Bailey to Arsenal Insider recently.

“I think Arsenal are fairly confident of getting these deals done, but there’s no massive rush; they want to get them done in the summer and get them over the line. That is their plan to get them tied down, those three particularly, to new deals.”

Al-Nassr moving to tempt Gabriel with Arsenal exit

However, while Arsenal are confident they can keep their star trio, Saudi side Al-Nassr are attempting to upset the apple-cart.

According to reports in Spain, Al-Nassr are “already” moving to tempt Gabriel with a “much higher” salary to leave Arsenal, with the Pro League outfit hatching an “ambitious” transfer plan to sign the Brazilian, Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo and Real Madrid superstar Vinícius Jr. for a combined total of £345 million.

Gabriel’s contract runs until 2027, with Arteta’s mainstay centre-back currently on around £100,000-per-week. Al-Nassr’s spending power could pose a real threat to Arsenal, and it is absolutely imperative they keep hold of the 27-year-old.

That being said, if the defender becomes open to a Saudi switch, Arsenal will reportedly dig their heels in and demand around £100 million (talkSPORT) – regardless of his contract situation.

Dubbed the Premier League’s “most underrated” player by Leah Williamson, Gabriel is a rock alongside Saliba at the back and vital to Arteta’s success.