Often when it comes to Leeds United and promotion races, the Whites let their nerves get the better of them.

However, with only one game remaining of the current Championship season, the West Yorkshire outfit are already Premier League bound away from any worries seeping in.

Daniel Farke’s side looked every bit ready for the challenge ahead when brushing aside playoff-chasing Bristol City effortlessly in a huge 4-0 win on Monday night.

There was a carnival-like atmosphere in the air at Elland Road throughout, with no hangovers in sight from the home side’s perspective after sealing promotion.

Leeds' best performers vs Bristol City

Leeds might have been anticipating a trickier tie in truth, considering Liam Manning’s Robins aren’t mathematically safe inside the top six positions.

But, from the get-go, the clash felt like a walk in the park for the hosts, with Ao Tanaka’s calm and collected finish from a floating Manor Solomon ball opening the scoring in the 21st minute.

Solomon – away from assisting Tanaka to break the deadlock – really stood out himself during the one-sided contest, with the electric Tottenham Hotspur loanee amassing two successful dribbles and four shots of his own to try and catch out the sheepish visitors from Bristol even more.

Both Wilfried Gnonto and Largie Ramazani would shine too as the other goal scorers on the night, with Ramazani only needing nine minutes of action to bag a brace, whilst both Joe Rodon and Ethan Ampadu would accumulate a ridiculous 291 accurate passes between them in the heart of the Leeds defence.

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Of course, alongside the aforementioned Welsh pairing, there was also the influential figure of Junior Firpo pulling the strings once more from defence, with his assist for Ramazani’s first of the clash taking his assist haul to the season up to a mighty ten.

Regardless of his standout showings this season, according to reports, it looks unlikely that the ex-Barcelona man will be kept around for the forthcoming challenge of the Premier League.

However, there is another face in Farke’s starting XI who may succumb to the same fate as the left-back over the summer.

7/10 Leeds star needs an upgrade

Tough conversations will have to take place at Leeds this coming off-season involving who is cut out for the intense jump up to the top-flight, with Farke’s neck already allegedly on the line in this regard.

Brenden Aaronson will also be worrying slightly about his long-term future in West Yorkshire, considering the American has previously floundered at the elite level.

Indeed, last time he was plunged into the choppy waters of the Premier League, Aaronson would only manage to pick up one goal and three assists from 36 outings, culminating in the Whites falling back into the reaches of the Championship.

Now, the ex-Red Salzburg attacker will have a point to prove. But, based on his somewhat wasteful approach against the leaky Robins and his topsy-turvy form this season, he might not be Farke’s preferred choice of number 10 in the far tougher division.

Aaronson’s performance in numbers

Stat

Aaronson

Minutes played

86

Goals scored

0

Assists

0

Touches

50

Accurate passes

28/33 (85%)

Key passes

2

Shots

3

Big chances missed

1

Stats by Sofascore

It must be said, this was not Aaronson’s worst night of the campaign, far from it. The £45k-per-week attacking midfielder did manage to link up nicely with Solomon and Co at points as another vibrant option up top, but another goal or assist to add to his season collection of 11 from 45-second tier clashes annoyingly evaded him.

Whilst the likes of Solomon and Tanaka wouldn’t look out of place in the top-flight, Aaronson could well find he’s pushed back into the deep-end once more, with Yorkshire Post journalist Tom Coates even labelling his night as “frustrating” despite his 7/10 rating. It was a night of mixed reviews for the American, which rather sums up his time at Leeds, with the Athletic’s Larry Henry suggesting it was a “really positive display”.

Evidently, an upgrade will be required in the Premier League and it might well be that the likes of Firpo, Farke and Aaronson have all just enjoyed their last nights under the Elland Road lights.

Before any more talk centres on whether the inconsistent 24-year-old could be let go of, Leeds still have the chance to clinch the Championship title on the final day of the season, with Plymouth the location for the Whites’ potential triumph.

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Posts ByDan Emery Apr 27, 2025

Fulham are now set to open talks over a deal for a “beautiful footballer” this summer, who is set to be available on a free transfer, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.

Cottagers stepping up summer transfer plans

The Cottagers have been showing signs of year-on-year development under the helm of Marco Silva, and they are in a good position to record a top-half finish in the Premier League, which should put them in a good position to attract some quality players this summer.

Silva’s side have managed to progress despite losing some key figures in recent windows, with Joao Palhinha among them, but the midfielder’s move to Bayern Munich hasn’t gone exactly to plan, which means a return to Craven Cottage could now be on the cards.

The west Londoners are keen on strengthening in the middle of the park, and they are also looking to upgrade their defence, with contact being made to discuss a deal for versatile Juventus defender Nicolo Savona, who has impressed in the Serie A this season.

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ByBarney Lane Apr 21, 2025

Savona’s main position is right-back, but the Italian is not the only target in that area of the pitch, with Sky Sports reporter Sheth recently taking to X to reveal Fulham are now interested in signing Southampton defender Kyle Walker-Peters.

Walker-Peters’ contract is set to expire at the end of the season, which means he will be available on a free transfer this summer, and the Cottagers are expected to open talks with his representatives when the campaign comes to a close.

Sheth states there will be “competition” for the defender, with London rivals West Ham United being named as potential suitors last month.

"Beautiful footballer" Walker-Peters could thrive in better side

It has been a season to forget for Southampton, who have recorded just two victories in the Premier League all season, which indicates it could be a gamble for Fulham to sign a player who has been a key part of such a poor side.

However, the 28-year-old has impressed in the Premier League in the past, chalking up 147 appearances in the competition, while also earning two caps for his national side.

Not only that, but the London-born defender has also received very high praise from former manager Russell Martin in the past, with the ex-Saints boss lauding him as a “beautiful footballer” after scoring in a 1-0 victory against Bristol City, before adding: “He can score more and assist more. It’s a brilliant, brilliant goal.”

As such, there are signs that Walker-Peters could thrive in a better side, and his availability on a free transfer is an added bonus for Fulham, making him a low-risk addition to Silva’s squad.

After the chaos and jubilation of Thursday night, Manchester United returned to their usual selves on Sunday afternoon, as the Red Devils slipped to a 15th Premier League defeat of the season at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

In many ways, it was the same old story for the hosts at Old Trafford, with Ruben Amorim forced to watch on as his lacklustre side squandered a litany of chances, before being punished late on by a sublime Pablo Sarabia free-kick.

Indeed, on a different day, Alejandro Garnacho could well have walked away with a hat-trick of assists, having picked out both Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount inside the box, while also seeing Rasmus Hojlund come agonisingly close to getting on the end of his clever pull-back.

The struggling Dane – who has scored just once in all competitions since mid-December – also failed to pick out Kobbie Mainoo when advancing into space in the second-half, with Match of the Day pundit Alan Shearer subsequently stating that the “damaged” 22-year-old “isn’t ready” to be United’s starting striker.

24 goals in 88 games for the Red Devils makes for grim reading for the £64m man, with it no surprise that the addition of a new centre-forward is high on the agenda this summer – alongside the capture of Wolves talisman, Matheus Cunha.

Latest on Man Utd's search for a forward

With all of United’s eggs now in the Europa League basket, there remains an anxious wait as to whether or not INEOS will have a Champions League budget to work with next season, with so much resting on success on the continent.

Regardless of what happens between now and the end of May, however, it does appear that the Old Trafford hierarchy are intent on adding Cunha to their ranks, with Fabrizio Romano outlining that the Red Devils are leading the race for the Brazilian’s signature.

The 25-year-old has scored 14 goals in the league this season – including against Amorim’s side on Boxing Day – with The Athletic previously outlining that he is viewed as a solution for one of the two number ten berths in the 3-4-3 set-up.

Transfer Focus

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

That same report had indicated that Ipswich Town starlet, Liam Delap, is being considered as a potential upgrade at centre-forward, although the Englishman is evidently not the only candidate, as revealed by Manchester Evening News journalist, Samuel Luckhurst.

As Luckhurst has noted, United have remained in contact with the agent of RB Leipzig sensation, Benjamin Sesko, having previously missed out on the Slovenian superstar back in the summer of 2022.

The interest in the 6 foot 5 striker – who has a £58m release clause in his current deal – appears to extend even further back than that, with prior reports outlining that the Red Devils rejected the chance to sign him for just £2.5m from NK Domzale as a teenager back in 2019.

This summer could then finally see the 21-year-old arrive at the Theatre of Dreams, with Sesko potentially set to represent the perfect upgrade on both Hojlund and Delap.

How Man Utd could upgrade their centre-forward ranks

For all United’s success in Europe – as they currently remain unbeaten in the Europa League – the fact of the matter is they have been simply abject domestically, having found themselves just two points above 17th-placed West Ham United.

A key issue has been the club’s woes at the top end of the pitch after scoring just 38 times in 33 top-flight games – almost half of what champions-elect Liverpool have recorded at the summit (75).

With Hojlund and the now stricken Joshua Zirkzee scoring just six league goals between them, the need of a new number nine is bordering on desperation – enter, Sesko.

Described as a “monster” of a striker by analyst Ben Mattinson, the 41-cap international has enjoyed another fine campaign in Germany, netting 20 times in 41 games in all competitions, including four goals in eight Champions League appearances.

Including his time at sister club Red Bull Salzburg, Sesko has now scored 12 league goals or more in each of his last three seasons. The 22-year-old Delap, for instance, has only broken into double figures for the first time in 2024/25, in what is his first campaign in a top-tier league.

Games (starts)

29 (27)

32 (29)

Goals

12

12

Big chances missed

10

10

Goal frequency

182mins

198mins

Assists

5

2

Big chances created

5

3

Key passes*

0.6

0.6

Pass accuracy*

67%

62%

Successful dribbles*

1.3

1.2

Aerial duels won*

56%

45%

As indicated in the table above, it is the Leipzig star who comes out on top too across a string of attacking and defensive metrics, showcasing just why United have been wise to maintain contact with his representatives in recent years.

A player with “incredible potential” – in the words of Jurgen Klopp – what particularly stands out is Sesko’s venomous shooting ability, having already chalked up a stunning catalogue of long-range, pinpoint efforts in his career thus far.

While there may be fears over enduring something of a Hojlund repeat, considering the potential price tag and age of the Slovenian hero, Sesko – unlike the current United man and Delap – has proven himself at the elite level over a number of seasons now.

He would represent the high-potential talent that Amorim and co are craving, who can make an instant impact.

For the third campaign in a row, the Red Devils look set to dip into the market for a new number nine – they simply can’t afford to get it wrong again…

He's a lot like Cunha: Man Utd hopeful of signing "frightening" £50m star

Manchester United are eyeing up a deal for a star who could be their own Matheus Cunha.

ByDan Emery Apr 21, 2025

Manchester City find themselves on a decent run of form, which has seen them remain unbeaten in their previous six games in the Premier League and FA Cup.

With an FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest to look forward to this weekend, especially as the competition represents the only chance they have of silverware this season, Pep Guardiola will be desperate for a win.

With just five league games left between now and the end of the campaign, City are yet to guarantee a top-five finish, which will see them secure qualification for the Champions League for the 15th year in a row.

It promises to be an exciting end to the season for the club. If FA Cup glory is achieved, plus a solid finish in the top flight, Guardiola could enter the summer with some renewed hope of starting a fresh era at the Etihad.

After several signings made during the winter transfer window, the Spaniard is already thinking ahead to the summer equivalent as one of Europe’s top young talents is being earmarked for a move to City.

Man City's summer transfer plans

With Kevin De Bruyne set to depart the Etihad Stadium this summer, City will be in the market for a new attacking midfielder.

Morgan Gibbs-White, Nottingham Forest’s mercurial playmaker, has already been earmarked for a possible summer switch but the Citizens may have to pay upwards of £100m.

The England international isn’t the only player on City’s radar in the attacking midfield positions, however.

Transfer Focus

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

Indeed, according to Football Insider, Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz remains the number one target for City to replace De Bruyne this summer.

German publication Bild reported last week that City could be set to pay the £129m fee that the German side has set for the player, although Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are also showing plenty of interest in the German international.

This high fee could give City a major advantage over the other teams, as detailed by former City financial advisor Stefan Borson who told Football Insider: “The impression I get is that they see Wirtz as that kind of headline signing to replace Kevin De Bruyne, and they recognise that to do that deal is going to cost what it costs.

“I think in some ways City might quite like the fact that that is the price because it pretty much rules out Real Madrid from the situation, and it possibly also rules out Bayern Munich as well.”

Replacing the ageing Belgian with someone who has the world at their feet could boost their confidence heading into next season, no doubt about that.

He is also comparable to another young maestro who is making waves on the continent – Lamine Yamal.

Why Wirtz could be Man City's very own Yamal

Yamal has been breaking records since he made his Barcelona debut at the age of just 15 years, nine months and 16 days in April 2023, becoming the youngest-ever debutant for the club in La Liga.

He hasn’t stopped there. A few months later, the winger made his debut for the Spanish national side aged just 16 and even scored, becoming both the youngest player and scorer for his country after the win over Georgia in September 2023.

At the 2024 European Championships, Spain won the title with Yamal playing a key role. His stunning goal in the semi-final against France set the nation on their way to an eventual 2-1 win, which powered them into the final.

He is on a fast track to greatness, and this season has been his most productive yet. Indeed, the 17-year-old has scored 14 times while grabbing 22 assists as Barcelona edges towards the La Liga title.

Although he plays in a different position to Wirtz, operating as a natural winger rather than an attacking midfielder, the two share some similar statistics this season.

Yamal is even the seventh-most comparable player to the Leverkusen star as per FBref.

The pair have registered similar statistics across a range of metrics in their respective domestic leagues, including goals and assists (19 vs 18), shots on target per 90 (1.26 vs 1.15), shot-creating actions per 90 (5.76 vs 5.53), touches in the attacking penalty area (122 vs 187) and successful take-on percentage (50.3% vs 49.6%) this season.

Should Guardiola get a deal for Wirtz over the line in the coming months, he could be signing his very own version of the Spanish superstar, that’s for sure.

Despite being only 21 years of age, it feels as though Wirtz has been around for a lifetime. He made his debut for Leverkusen during the 2019/20 season, even scoring in the Bundesliga.

The next two seasons saw him go from strength to strength, registering 18 goals and 22 assists for the club across just 69 matches. His emergence from raw talent into a potential world-class star was evident, but then disaster struck.

In March 2022, he suffered a cruciate ligament tear that saw him miss 43 games for club and country, ruling him out of the 2022 World Cup in the process.

This type of injury may have kept plenty of players down on their luck. Not Wirtz, who has arguably returned even stronger.

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig has previously hailed the 21-year-old as a “superstar”, and that is exactly what he was last season for Leverkusen. The club won the domestic double.

Throughout the 2023/24 Bundesliga season, Wirtz created 12 big chances, averaged 2.3 key passes per game and succeeded with 2.5 dribbles each match – a success rate of 51% – which helped the club claim their first ever league title.

Although Leverkusen won’t win any silverware this term, Wirtz has still contributed superbly, netting 15 goals along with recording 13 assists in all competitions.

He has yet to hit his peak and this is what is so enticing about the youngster. Guardiola will be able to push him towards becoming one of the best in the world should he end up at City this summer.

Man City have found their own Declan Rice in "outstanding" homegrown star

Pep Guardiola might well have his own Declan Rice at Manchester City with this terrific talent.

1

By
Kelan Sarson

Apr 21, 2025

Manchester City may not have won either the Premier League or Champions League this season, but they could end 2024/25 on a high note next weekend.

Of course, winning the FA Cup won’t right the wrongs of what has been a largely dismal campaign for the Etihad side, but it would be a nice consolation prize.

While everything will be focused on that final next week, Pep Guardiola will certainly have one eye on improving his squad, especially with the transfer window set to open in a few weeks.

City will take part in the revamped Club World Cup in June, and the window opens on the first of that month, before closing ten days later. This is to give those who are partaking in the event this summer a chance to get a head start on their business.

Despite bolstering the first-team squad in January with signings such as Omar Marmoush and Nico Gonzalez, Guardiola wants more this summer.

Players such as Florian Wirtz and Morgan Gibbs-White have been heavily linked with a move to Manchester this summer as replacements for the departing Kevin De Bruyne.

Could City’s first signing be a defender, however? As it appears, Guardiola is closing in on a deal to sign a player could replace Kyle Walker at right-back.

Kyle Walker’s future with Man City is uncertain

After eight and a half trophy-laden seasons with the club, the Englishman joined Milan on a six-month loan deal during the winter transfer window.

He has played 14 games for the Italian giants, but it looks as though he is likely to return to Manchester once his temporary spell ends in a few weeks.

Football Insider stated last month that Walker is likely to take a pay cut should he return to his parent club, and it is highly unlikely that he would be the starting right-back heading into the new campaign.

An upgrade or replacement for the former Tottenham Hotspur man is certainly needed.

Man City closing in on move for Brazilian defender

According to journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, City are pressing ahead in their bid to close in on the signing of Flamengo defender Wesley Franca before the Club World Cup starts next month.

He goes on to state that Wesley is the preferred option to come in as the new right-back next season, placing him higher than Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento.

The Brazilian came close to sealing a move to Atalanta last summer, but the move broke down at the final hurdle. Flamengo had even rejected a proposal of £20m by Russian outfit Zenit St Petersburg earlier this year, meaning City might have to splash the cash.

Mathues Nunes has been deputising at right-back for City in recent months, and it is clearly a position which needs strengthened heading into the 2025/26 season.

Transfer Focus

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

With interest in Wesley intensifying, Walker might have to get used to playing a backup role next term.

Why Man City want to sign Wesley Franca

Wesley is still only 21 years of age, but has already racked up a total of 127 appearances for Flamengo, winning the Copa Libertadores and two Brazilian Cups during his embryonic career thus far.

His progress in Brazil has been followed by U23 scout Antonio Mango, who recently took to X to praise the youngster, saying: “Wesley França (21, 2003) has really been coming of age recently.

“He’s been exceptional for Flamengo this season, his games matured which brought super consistency. Be surprised if he doesn’t play in Europe next season.”

Elsewhere, he was hailed as the “best RB in Brazil” by respected analyst Ben Mattinson earlier this month and Guardiola could have a star in the making should he make the move to City.

His philosophy recently appears to be signing players who have yet to hit their peak that have the potential to become world-class stars in the future.

Wesley certainly fits this bill well indeed. Should City secure his signature, ideally before the Club World Cup, then the Spaniard will have the right-back position locked down for the next few years.

Especially as he is a better option than a returning Walker, that’s for sure.

Why Wesley Franca is an upgrade on Kyle Walker

When compared to his positional peers in the men’s next 14 competitions, Wesley has shone in a range of metrics. He currently ranks in the top 14% for progressive carries (2.72), successful take-ons (1.29) and progressive passes received (9.48) per 90 over the previous 365 days.

Compare this to Walker, who fails to even rank in the top 60% for progressive carries (1.26), successful take-ons (0.46) or progressive passes received (2.28) per 90 when compared to his peers across the top five leagues in Europe. It is clear who has offered more going forward in the previous 12 months.

Metric

Wesley

Walker (PL only)

Key passes per 90

1.3

0.5

Big chances created

2

2

Assists

1

0

Total duels won per 90

6.1

2.3

Successful dribbles per 90

1.3

0.2

Defensively, Wesley ranks in the top 7% for tackles won (2) while also ranking in the top 17% for percentage of aerial duels won (60.5%) per 90 when compared to his peers.

Yet again, Walker trails his younger rival in these metrics, ranking in the bottom 69% for tackles won (1.01). Although he does rank in the top 19% for percentage of aerial duels won (59.4%), this is still lower than Wesley’s output.

It is evident that Walker is on the wane and if he remains with City throughout next season, he likely won’t be starting many games. Perhaps Guardiola will retain his services due to the experience he can provide in certain matches, but going forward, someone younger and fresher will be key to City’s success in this area.

Wesley ticks all the boxes and would be an important signing for the club. Can they bring him in before the Club World Cup starts? Or shall Flamengo hold firm until the competition is over.

Things could get interesting over the next few weeks. Watch this space.

Man City preparing for summer move to sign "incredible" £80m West Ham star

They could finally get their man…

ByTom Cunningham May 8, 2025

Arsenal’s season now rests on 90 minutes in Paris next week.

Mikel Arteta’s side have failed to win the Premier League for a third campaign on the bounce, but as things stand, they still have a genuine chance of overturning Paris Saint-Germain’s one-nil lead at the Parc des Princes and making it to their first Champions League final in 19 years.

However, to do that, they’ll have to play substantially better than they did on Tuesday night, and more specifically, club captain Martin Odegaard will have to step up in a big way following his dismal showing at home.

Odegaard’s 24/25

Appearances

40

Minutes

3072′

Goals

5

Assists

10

Goal Involvements per Match

0.37

Minutes per Goal Involvement

204.8′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

With just 15 goal improvements in 40 appearances, the Norwegian international has been a massive disappointment this season, so it’s excellent news that recent reports have linked the club with a striker who should be able to revive his fortunes next year.

Arsenal's striker search

Ask any Arsenal fan what they desperately need in the summer, and we’d hazard a guess that almost all of them will say a striker. After all, despite being just one place ahead of them in the Premier League, Liverpool have scored 17 more goals this season.

Transfer Focus

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

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Fortunately, the board clearly agrees with this sentiment, as there have been a whole host of centre-forwards touted for moves to the Emirates in recent weeks, one of the more recent being Jonathan David.

Thanks to his contract expiring at the end of next month, the Canadian international will be available for nothing in the summer, and as he’s already scored 25 goals and provided 11 assists in 46 games this year, he’d undoubtedly be an incredible addition to Arteta’s squad.

A little closer to home, the Gunners have once again been linked with Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins in recent weeks.

The Englishman was the subject of a failed £45m bid from the North Londoners in the winter window, and while it’s unclear just how much he’d cost in the summer, it’s clear that with 29 goal involvements in 50 games this season, he’d be a brilliant signing.

However, to really propel the club to the title next year and get the likes of Odegaard firing again, Arteta and Co need to sign a goalscoring machine, which is where Viktor Gyokeres comes in.

According to a recent report from transfers expert Fabrizio Romano, as relayed by GIVEMESPORT, Arsenal remain incredibly keen on bringing the Swedish international to N5 this summer.

A potential price tag is not mentioned in the story, but other reports from this week claim that the striker could be available for up to £70m.

It’s certainly a lot to spend on one player, but given his immense ability and the effect he could have on the likes of Odegaard, it’s a transfer worth doing for Arsenal.

How Gyokeres would revive Odegaard

While there might be several small reasons here and there why Gyokeres would be able to get more out of Odegaard, like his application in training sessions and his attitude during games, his raw output is what matters more than anything.

After all, it doesn’t matter how hard he works if he can’t finish the chances the Norwegian creates for him.

Fortunately, when it comes to being a pure out-and-out goalscorer, it’s hard to think of anyone better than the former Coventry City star in Europe at the moment.

Gyokeres’ 24/25

Appearances

48

Minutes

3858′

Goals

52

Assists

12

Goal Involvements per Match

1.33

Minutes per Goal Involvement

60.28′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

For example, in 48 appearances for Sporting CP, totalling 3858 minutes, the 6 foot 2 “powerhouse,” as dubbed by respected analyst Ben Mattinson, has scored a simply staggering 52 goals and provided 12 assists for good measure.

In other words, the 26-capped monster is currently averaging 1.33 goal involvements every game, or one every 60.28 minutes, which is undoubtedly a world-class rate of return.

Just imagine a striker as unrelentingly efficient as that in front of the Gunners’ captain – he’d almost instantly see his assist tally skyrocket.

Moreover, if opposition defenders had to spend more time worrying about the North Londoners’ new monstrous forward as well as Bukayo Saka off the right, there would be more room for the former Real Madrid prospect to operate in, and as a result, his own goal tally would likely increase as well.

Ultimately, while it’s a lot of money, Arsenal should be doing all they can to bring Gyokeres to the Emirates this summer, as not only could he fire them to the title next year, but he could be just the man to get Odegaard back to his mercurial best as well.

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Posts 1 ByJack Salveson Holmes May 1, 2025

Liverpool are now keen on signing a “lethal” £50m striker, who’s scored the same number of goals as Alexander Isak this season, according to a report.

Liverpool eyeing Nunez replacement

Arne Slot has enjoyed a remarkable first season at Anfield, having secured the Premier League title with a squad effectively built by Jurgen Klopp, but the manager is looking to bring in some new faces this summer, having been left unconvinced by some of his current options.

One such player is Darwin Nunez, with reports stating the Dutch manager doesn’t trust the striker, and with the Uruguayan open to an exit this summer, the manager could well be tasked with bringing in a replacement.

There has recently been a positive update on the Reds’ pursuit of Brentford striker Bryan Mbeumo, with it being revealed that a bid for the 25-year-old is likely to be accepted, should they decide to make a concrete approach.

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Liverpool are looking to sign a left-back in the transfer market this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 4, 2025

Having proven himself at Premier League level, the France-born striker could be an attractive option for Slot, but he is not the only target they have in mind, with Newcastle United’s Isak also on the shortlist.

A deal for Isak could be difficult to pull off, however, which means Liverpool could make a move for an alternative option, and a report from Anfield Watch has now revealed they are now keen on signing Atalanta striker Mateo Retegui.

Retegui has been added to the shortlist, having impressed in front of goal this season, and the report adds that Nunez is now expected to depart this summer, which exacerbates the need to bring in a new striker.

Isak and Hugo Ekitike are also of interest to the Reds, but they could choose to hone in on the Atalanta forward, and previous reports have revealed he could be available for the relatively affordable fee of £50m.

"Lethal" Retegui keeping up with Isak this season

Isak has been one of the Premier League’s stand-out players this season, netting 27 goals for Newcastle in all competitions, but the Atalanta star has been juist as prolific, having found the back of the net 27 times in 45 outings.

Italy manager Luciano Spalletti has been left particularly impressed by the 26-year-old’s performances, saying: “Inside the box, he is lethal. And now he has learned how to connect with the team better. He’s going to become a top player.”

Nunez, on the other hand, has never really managed to make a name for himself at Anfield, scoring just five Premier League goals this season, so it is little wonder that Slot is looking to bring in an upgrade this summer.

There is every indication that Retegui could be a fantastic signing for Liverpool, so it is exciting news they are in the race for his signature, but there could be competition from Manchester United, who have already held talks.

Newcastle United’s squad have immortalised themselves this season, defeating Liverpool at Wembley to win the Carabao Cup and end a 70-year domestic drought.

However, PIF won’t want that success to be a fleeting thing, a flash-in-the-pan. To reinforce this exciting position, Eddie Howe’s Magpies simply have to finish in the Premier League’s top five and secure a gateway back into the Champions League.

For sure, United have demonstrated in recent years their ability to overcome setbacks, to bounce back stronger, but there’s little question that the financial ramifications and bargaining power in keeping key players at St. James’ Park will weaken considerably if not seated at Europe’s elite table.

Should they cross the finish line in the desired position, Newcastle will not only be able to retain their top players, but sign some new superstars. There’s one such player already in the pipeline as the summer market beckons.

Newcastle chasing new forward

This feels like a deal only attainable if financial parameters are widened through Champions League qualification, but Newcastle are in the running for Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Matheus Cunha.

Transfer Focus

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

That’s according to Fabrizio Romano who was being quizzed on GIVEMESPORT’s Market Madness show.

He revealed that Newcastle will look to strike a deal with Molineux for their star forward, who has a £62.5m release clause in his contract. The transfer insider has commented that Howe and co believe the 25-year-old would be “perfect” for the project.

However, the Toon have got their work cut out, with Manchester United are reportedly leading the race for his signature after a bunch of positive talks between the respective parties.

It’s worth noting that Newcastle’s sporting director, Paul Mitchell, led player recruitment at RB Leipzig when the German side signed a teenage Cunha back in 2018. Food for thought.

Why Newcastle should sign Matheus Cunha

Off the bat, Man United might feel that they are making headway in their efforts to sign Cunha, but if they fail to win the Europa League, Old Trafford’s 2024/25 campaign will be limited to solely the domestic front.

Newcastle, conversely, may well be returned to the Champions League theatre after a trophy-winning campaign. Should finances hold up, there’s no reason why Howe can’t tempt Cunha to move to Tyneside.

And what a signing it would be. The Brazil international has been hailed by BBC Sport’s Micah Richards for his blend of quality and intelligence on the field, the pundit saying: “His football IQ is absolutely sensational. He’s the one who can unlock the doors. He finds the little pockets of space and makes the right decisions at the right times.”

Cunha is positionally dynamic, something which suggests he could slot square into the running of things within Howe’s operation. However, given the make-up of Newcastle’s starting 11, he may well prove to be an upgrade on Harvey Barnes on the left flank.

Barnes, 27, has been in fine fettle of late, superseding Anthony Gordon following the latter’s red card against Brighton in the FA Cup. He’s racked up six goal involvements in his past five Premier League fixtures, with at least one during every fixture.

Matches (starts)

28 (25)

28 (12)

Goals

14

9

Assists

4

4

Shots (on target)*

3.2 (1.3)

1.7 (0.6)

Big chances missed

2

5

Pass completion

78%

82%

Big chances created

12

7

Dribbles*

2.0

0.7

Ball recoveries*

4.1

1.6

Tackles + interceptions*

1.8

0.8

Duels won*

4.8

2.1

Barnes has a natural talent for goals, for assists. However, he lacks the completeness of his Brazilian counterpart, which is largely why he’s been unable to displace the more dynamic Gordon for much of his Newcastle career.

If the Magpies were to succeed in their effort for such a winger, one who can play across a range of positions, it may well be the perfect piece needed for a team moving back into Champions League competition next year – and this time, with a newfound title-winning quality about them.

Even if Newcastle qualify for the Champions League this summer, PSR will hang over St. James’ Park like an ominous shadow. It’s for this reason that the club are at least open to the prospect of selling a player like Barnes, as reported by Football Insider.

If this ameliorates financial concerns, carving space for the £90k-per-week Cunha in the process, it’s something of a no-brainer. Think of Barnes’ recent purple patch as a stock raiser ahead of an exciting chain of events.

Best signing since Isak: Newcastle hit the jackpot on "world-class" star

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Leeds United are reportedly weighing up a move for a “sensational” England international this summer as they gear up for a return to the Premier League, according to a new report.

Leeds planning for Premier League after smashing Stoke

Thanks to a crucial Good Friday victory over Oxford United and a complete demolition job of Stoke City, Leeds United are now within touching distance of promotion. With top-flight football now looking extremely likely, speculation is already mounting over summer reinforcements, as manager Daniel Farke looks to strengthen his squad to ensure survival next season.

Several names have already been linked with a potential move to Elland Road, including Norwich City goalkeeper Angus Gunn, Sporting CP and Japan midfielder Hidemasa Morita, and West Ham United’s Tomas Souček.

According to Claret and Hugh, Farke is an admirer of the Czech Republic international and has identified him as a potential addition to his Premier League plans.

“Leeds are planning for next season — Daniel Farke has already started preparations for the summer window. He likes Souček, but there’s already a Premier League offer in for him,” the publication reports, citing an insider.

The same source also claims that Leeds have an interest in Irish striker Evan Ferguson, who is currently on loan at West Ham from Brighton & Hove Albion.

Lilywhites considering swoop for Johnstone

Another name reportedly on Leeds United’s radar is Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Sam Johnstone. The 32-year-old, who has earned four caps for England, joined Wolves last summer in a deal worth around £10 million.

However, his opportunities have been limited – he’s made just seven Premier League appearances, with his last outing coming back in October. Since then, manager Vítor Pereira has preferred Dan Bentley and José Sá in goal.

According to journalist Alan Nixon, Leeds are now showing strong interest in Johnstone and are considering a summer move as they seek a replacement for Illan Meslier, who is expected to depart after recently losing his place in Daniel Farke’s starting XI.

Nixon reports that Wolves would only sanction Johnstone’s departure if they receive an offer matching the £10 million they paid Crystal Palace for him just eight months ago.

Johnstone has previously earned praise from former England international and pundit Gary Lineker for his outstanding reflexes. While playing for West Bromwich Albion, Johnstone pulled off a stunning last-minute save to deny Harry Maguire a potential winner in a match against boyhood club Manchester United – securing a vital point for the Baggies.

Manchester City have not set the Premier League alight by their lofty standards this season, but there are still some positive green shoots beginning to appear.

Indeed, the likes of Nico O’Reilly and Omar Marmoush have settled in swimmingly to first-team life in Manchester, with the exciting academy product a first-team regular now, alongside his entertaining Egyptian teammate who already has six Premier League goals to his name.

That’s the case despite the City number seven only being on the books of Pep Guardiola’s men since January, meaning there will plenty of optimism in the air that deals happening this coming transfer window can be equally as impactful.

How Man City could replace De Bruyne in the transfer window

The main area of the pitch that could do with some reinforcements is the number ten spot with Kevin De Bruyne edging ever closer to exiting the Etihad the more the season ticks away.

This has led City down the path of pursuing some statement buys with both names such as Florian Wirtz and Morgan Gibbs-White on their agenda to try and adequately replace the constant heroics of De Bruyne.

But, Guardiola’s titans could plug the gap left behind by their iconic Belgian by snapping up Sporting winger Francisco Trincao instead, despite the ex-Wolverhampton Wanderers man’s main preference to line up down the flanks.

The Portuguese was linked with a move to the Etihad earlier this week but it won’t be an easy deal to get over the line.

That’s because top four rivals Newcastle United and Arsenal are also after the wide forward, while city rivals Manchester United have a vested interest too.

Transfer Focus

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

Why Trincao could replace De Bruyne's creativity

If Trincao were to relocate back to the Premier League, he would have a burning desire to prove any naysayers wrong after a turbulent stint at Molineux.

After all, the 25-year-old attacker – who was once hailed as “special” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig – has proven himself to be an assist king ever since returning to his native Portugal, which could lead to De Bruyne’s sad exit being quickly forgotten about.

The on-fire Sporting number 17 was more cold than hot donning a Wolves strip, with Trincao only capable of picking up a mere three goals and one assist from 30 appearances for the Old Gold, before then retreating to a more comfortable environment in Lisbon.

Now, he is front and centre of Sporting’s devastating attacking arsenal alongside goal machine Viktor Gyokeres, with this season alone seeing the reinvigorated forward pick up a substantial 18 assists from 51 total contests.

His career total of 53 assists – away from this season’s count – is some way off eclipsing De Bruyne’s unbelievable 177 tally at the Etihad, but the powers that be at City will just pray he can be as classy as the departing 33-year-old when cutting defences open if he joins, having also once been openly praised as “really exciting” by Wolves technical director Scott Sellars.

RW

171

27

36

LW

53

11

6

SS

24

7

3

RM

11

0

1

CF

8

3

1

LM

6

1

2

AM

1

0

0

To further back up Trincao as a likely heir to De Bruyne’s playmaking throne, the Portuguese superstar has also shown across his career to date that he can shine in multiple different positions.

Of course, the assist-heavy Belgian is most commonly known as lining up as a number ten for Guardiola’s giants, but he has lined up in eight different positions during his lengthy stay at the club, including as a main striker in recent times, a role Trincao can fulfil too.

Therefore, this is yet another box that Trincao ticks if he’s going to be the next ace up Guardiola’s sleeve, similar to De Bruyne’s high standards.

Adding in a player of the 25-year-old’s creative calibre can only be a positive for those at City, with a further low price-tag next to his name of just £34m making this potential summer move a must to complete.

Their answer to Wirtz: Man City preparing bid for "world-class" £85m star

Manchester City could still win their answer to Florian Wirtz by signing this superstar instead.

ByKelan Sarson May 8, 2025