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Celtic will look to tie up loose ends from a domestic standpoint ahead of next season before looking to strike while the iron is hot on the transfer market.

Celtic in hunt for domestic treble to reflect progress under Rodgers

Brendan Rodgers has led Celtic to within touching distance of another treble and will hope his side can push a fourth successive Scottish Premiership title over the line this weekend should permutations fall their way.

The Bhoys need to defeat Kilmarnock on Saturday to move within a point of the league crown, which could be handed to them the following day if Rangers lose out at Aberdeen.

Despite the promise of a fantastic end to the campaign, Rodgers has warned against Celtic complacency following a surprise 1-0 defeat for his side against St Johnstone last Sunday.

He stated: “It’s happened too many times. I’ve seen a trend now with us, and it will be interesting between now and the end of the season in terms of mentality.”

Losing three of his last seven Scottish Premiership encounters, the Irishman has possibly been given food for thought as the summer window approaches.

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Posts 4 ByDan Emery Apr 9, 2025

Reports have suggested Celtic want to sign Augsburg midfielder Elvis Rexhbecaj to shore up their options in the engine room, which may go some way to indicating where he sees the most pressing need for reinforcements.

Delivering domestic trophies is deemed as the bread and butter in Scotland, but there is an ever-blooming expectation that the Hoops’ rude financial health should translate to regular impressive showings in Europe, with recent claims suggesting Rodgers has demanded a summer warchest to stay at Celtic.

Tapping into that theme, the manager could now be granted several new arrivals at Parkhead to help his cause, according to former Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness.

Wyness: Celtic boss Rodgers could line up five summer signings

Speaking to Football Insider, Wyness claimed Celtic could make up to five summer signings in what is set to be an “aggressive” window for all involved at Parkhead, citing their desire to grow in the Champions League as a critical factor.

He stated: “Brendan will definitely want to be aggressive this summer, every manager wants that. I’ve never had a manager work for me who isn’t two players short of what he wants. No matter what you give them, they always want at least two more.

Where are Celtic most likely to strengthen this summer?

Left-back – almost certain to happen

Greg Taylor likely to leave for free, cover needed for Kieran Tierney

Defensive midfield – possible but not at top of priority list

Callum McGregor is 32 in June and may need his minutes managed

Central midfield – if departures occur

Reo Hatate may be at the end of his cycle, so another body is likely

On the flanks – high likelihood

Daizen Maeda’s move to central striking role has created a void

Striker – almost certain to happen

Maeda and Adam Idah could use competition through the middle

“Brendan will, in this case, want another three, four, or even five – given the Champions League and the levels they want to be at. So it will be that usual battle.”

Although there is unlikely to be a sea change at Celtic this summer, a squad refresh may be needed to instill the hunger needed to claim a fifth Scottish Premiership title in a row alongside staking a claim in the Champions League.

Now, the onus remains on Parkhead recruitment chiefs to ensure the Bhoys are prepared by the time qualifiers come around, which won’t be an easy test so early into the new campaign.

Patrick Dorgu has become a key player at Manchester United since his January move from Lecce. The Dane, who cost the Red Devils £25m up front, has already played ten times for his new club this term, although he did miss three games due to suspension.

The 20-year-old is yet to score or assist for the first time in a United shirt. However, he did win a penalty, which Bruno Fernandes converted in the Europa League Round of 16 against Real Sociedad, showing just how deadly he can be.

With that being said, it has not all been smooth sailing for the wing-back. Aside from his red card, he was recently rotated out of the team for United’s 4-1 loss away to Newcastle United, with Harry Amass stepping into his shoes.

Amass’ full debut for United

For a football fan, there probably aren’t many better birthday presents than making your professional debut, and for Man United, nonetheless. Well, that was the case for Amass, who made a substitute appearance away to Leicester City in the Premier League on his 18th birthday.

Just weeks later, the youngster, who was born in London and played for Watford’s academy originally, made his first start in the top flight. The youngster was selected to start ahead of Dorgu at left wing-back.

Indeed, it was an impressive showing from Amass, as the stats on Sofascore reflect. The 18-year-old had 31 touches of the ball, completed 85% of his passes and won two duels. He certainly performed well.

That was certainly a sentiment that football statistician Statman Dave seemed to agree with. He was full of praise for Amass, explaining that he “didn’t look out of place in senior football” at St James’ Park last weekend.

There is certainly no worry about squad depth for the Red Devils at left-wing back, with the emergence of Amass and the signing of Dorgu. Incredibly, they are adding to that depth over the summer with another new signing.

United’s latest left wing-back signing

One of the continents where big European clubs tend to find hidden gem players is South America. Well, United may have pulled off a masterclass of their own in that sense, with the signing of youngster Diego Leon.

In the middle of January, it was confirmed by BBC Sport that the 18-year-old undertook a medical at United’s Carrington training ground. The reported fee is £6m, with the left-back set to join in the summer.

Now, United are not just signing a player without first-team experience who could one day break into the fold at Old Trafford. No, Leon has actually had years of experience at first-team level for Paraguayan side Cerro Porteno.

He has already played 26 times for the club over the past couple of years, and has even managed three goals in that time, from left-back. His 2092 minutes so far equate to 23 full 90-minute games, showing his importance to the Cerro Porteno side.

In fact, his underlying stats via Sofascore from his time in professional football so far are impressive. For example, Leon played nine key passes last term, and five this season, as well as making 45 tackles and interceptions in 2024, and 11 in 2025.

Leon key stats in 2024 & 2025

Stat

2024

2025

Minutes

1643

450

Key passes

9

5

Pass accuracy

71.5%

76.8%

Tackles and interceptions

45

11

Aerial duels won

21

11

Stats from Sofascore

One person who rates the youngster highly is football analyst Ben Mattinson. Discussing Leon in December 2024, just one month before his United medical, the analyst said he “runs like a steam train”, highlighting the physicality he will bring to Old Trafford.

Leon certainly seems like a player United fans can get excited about. The 18-year-old will bring first-team experience with him to the Premier League, and he clearly has final-third flair. He could be the perfect player for Amoirm to add to his wing-back options.

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast’s In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

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Both Amass and Dorgu may well need to watch out…

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Posts ByJoe Nuttall Apr 16, 2025

Liverpool have reportedly “identified” a “fantastic” replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold this summer, with the player in question excelling in the Premier League this season.

Trent's Liverpool future still unknown

With Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk tied down to their respective new two-year deals in recent weeks, Reds supporters have been able to breathe a huge sigh of relief.

That said, there are still huge doubts surrounding the future of Alexander-Arnold at Liverpool, with the vice-captain heavily linked with a move from his boyhood club to Real Madrid.

The fact that the 26-year-old has done little to play down the rumours at any point suggests that his head may well have been turned by a high-profile summer switch to the Santiago Bernabeu, in a decision that would have the potential to harm his legacy at Anfield.

If Alexander-Arnold does leave Liverpool this summer, it is vital that a top-quality replacement comes in, with SC Freiburg’s Kiliann Sildillia mentioned as a target. Bayer Leverkusen ace Jeremie Frimpong has also been backed to join the Reds, having shone under Xabi Alonso for the reigning Bundesliga champions.

Liverpool eyeing "fantastic" Trent replacement

According to an update from Caught Offside on Sunday, Liverpool have “identified” Nottingham Forest right-back Ola Aina as a new target and option to replace Alexander-Arnold at the end of the season, assuming he leaves.

The 28-year-old has shone for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side throughout the 2024/25 campaign, proving to be a key player in their push for unlikely Champions League qualification.

The £40,000-a-week Aina is a strong option for Liverpool alongside the likes of Sildillia and Frimpong this summer, with his performances for Forest showing what an asset he could be.

The Nigerian has averaged 2.9 clearances and 0.4 aerial duel wins per game in the Premier League across 30 appearances, which is superior to Alexander-Arnold’s tallies in that area, as the table below illustrates.

Aina vs. Alexander-Arnold in the PL this season

Aina

Alexander-Arnold

Appearances

30

28

Starts

30

26

Minutes played

2575

2158

Goals

2

2

Assists

1

6

Clearances per game

2.9

1.6

Aerial duel wins per game

0.4

0.1

Interceptions per game

1.0

1.1

Aina has also been lauded for one attacking moment of quality earlier this season, with Glenn Murray full of praise for his goal against Aston Villa:

“Sometimes when you come on to a shot like that the temptation can be to leather the ball with your laces. But, it’s a side foot, it’s controlled and it’s a fantastic finish, it really is.”

At 28, Aina is two years older than Alexander-Arnold, however, and wouldn’t necessarily represent a long-term option for Liverpool, which is arguably the biggest negative against them signing him.

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Posts 1 ByAngus Sinclair Apr 20, 2025

The Reds would arguably be wiser to look at younger targets, such as those mentioned above, allowing them to sign someone with more scope to improve as the years pass.

Chelsea left it late on Sunday, but Enzo Maresca’s Blues came away from the frantic contest at near neighbours Fulham victorious with a 2-1 win secured at the death.

Pedro Neto smashed home a fierce effort as the clock ticked down to the 93rd minute mark to clinch the dramatic three points, but he wasn’t the only main talking point right after the dust had settled at Craven Cottage.

Indeed, 19-year-old sensation Tyrique George was the hero who got his team back in the contest with the much-needed equaliser, with the teenage attacker now hopeful of more senior minutes to come after his chaotic cameo against Marco Silva’s hosts.

George's promising performances for Chelsea

George would only find himself on the Craven Cottage turf for a mere five minutes before crucially levelling the contest, leaving Maresca delighted on the sidelines that he threw the promising youngster into the game.

This isn’t the Camden-born attacker’s only senior goal of the season to date, however, with George also lethal against Legia Warsaw in mid-April, but the coolness to slot home a chance past Bernd Leno when the likes of Nicolas Jackson were otherwise floundering was mightily impressive all the same.

Now off the mark in the Premier League, George will surely be demanding more first-team opportunities come his way, with the flexible starlet, who can play as a winger or as a number ten, already boasting 36 goal contributions playing for the U18s and U21s.

George’s numbers vs Legia + Fulham

Stat

Legia

Fulham

Minutes played

75

12

Goals scored

1

1

Assists

0

0

Touches

46

4

Accurate passes

31/35

2/2

Shots

1

1

Stats by Sofascore

But, he isn’t the only up-and-coming talent that Maresca and Co will be holding out high hopes for, with a similarly dazzling attacker perhaps more equipped to star in the first team over George.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Expand Collapse The "world class talent" who could dent George

The Stamford Bridge outfit haven’t always had a glowing reputation when it comes to giving their youngsters plenty of first-team minutes, but this could soon change away from George’s emergence on the scene.

After all, current Palmeiras ace Estêvão is ready and waiting to make an impression in England when he waves his native Brazil goodbye in June, having initially signed a whopping £29m deal in May last year.

The South American prodigy might well be two years younger than his new Blues teammate, but he has terrorised defences on a regular basis for Palmeiras ever since he entered into the first-team picture, leading to Chelsea splashing the cash to land the sensational 17-year-old.

Already heralded as a “world-class talent” by talent scout Jacek Kulig and as a “future Ballon d’Or winner” by data analyst Ben Mattinson, he clearly looks ready to be thrown straight into the deep-end of the Blues first team shortly, coming potentially at George’s expense.

Estêvão’s numbers for Palmeiras by year

Year

Games played

Goals scored

Assists

2025

21

6

1

2024

50

19

12

2023

4

1

0

Stats by Sofascore

With a hefty 26 goals scored in total for the Brazilian side at a senior level, on top of 13 assists being tallied up, Estêvão will be keen to make an impact on Maresca’s starting XI, knowing he’s ready for that next step-up in quality.

Whereas, with George only managing two goals in the Blues’ first team, on the contrary, his time to become a consistent starter might well come more down the line, with the Brazilian wonderkid also adept at filling in down either wing or as an attacking midfielder like his rawer counterpart.

GOAL.com's 10 best wonderkids in world football.

In an ideal world, both players will be able to kick on next season. But, if it was a toss-up between the two, expect Estêvão to gain more meaningful first-team chances over the Englishman.

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Posts ByKelan Sarson Apr 20, 2025

Manchester United could now be offered the chance to sign a “strong” Juventus star in exchange for selling striker Rasmus Hojlund, according to a recent report.

Amorim determined to keep key man at United

United are all set to play the second leg of their Europa League semi-final tie against Athletic Bilbao, knowing they are in a very good position to seal their place in the final. Leading up to United’s biggest game of the season, there has been talk about Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal wanting to sign talisman and captain Bruno Fernandes.

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Posts ByRobbie Walls May 8, 2025

Al-Hilal are said to be prepared to pay a British record transfer fee and also pay the Portugal international more than £1 million a week to get him out of Old Trafford. However, that may not be an easy task for the Saudi team, as Ruben Amorim has once again confirmed that he wants Bruno to stay at the club, as he is “one of the top players in the world”.

Amorim said in his pre-match Bilbao press conference: “Our idea didn’t change. We want to keep the best players – and Bruno is clearly one of the top players in the world. We want Bruno here.

“It is easy to understand [his importance] – not just because of the numbers but the way he plays and the importance he has during his five years here.

“It’s normal; a lot of clubs want a player like Bruno. He is a leader, and he’s the captain, so he’s really important. He is a top player; we need top players.”

Man Utd could be offered £135k-p/w star in exchange for Hojlund

While Amorim makes it clear he wants Fernandes to stay, he may be open to the idea of letting other players leave, in particular Hojlund, and the Red Devils could now be offered an intriguing player swap. According to Tuttosport, Juventus could be prepared to offer Douglas Luiz to Man United in exchange for Hojlund.

The report states that the Serie A giants are leading the race to sign Hojlund this summer and have taken steps to move towards a deal. There is talk that Dušan Vlahović, who Juventus are open to selling this summer, could be a part of a deal for Hojlund, but it also mentions that Luiz is an ‘important card to play’ in the negotiations for the United striker.

Luiz, who has been dubbed “strong” by Aston Villa sporting director Monchi, only joined Juve in the summer but has struggled to nail down a regular starting spot, featuring in just 17 Serie A games and mostly from the bench. Despite being under contract until 2029, Juventus may look to use Luiz in a deal for Hojlund to bring United’s price down.

Douglas Luiz’s 24/25 Serie A stats

Apps

17

Starts

3

Minutes per game

30

Touches per game

29.4

Passes per game (accuracy)

21.2 (90%)

Key passes per game

0.9

Tackles per game

0.7

Balls recovered per game

1.7

Hojlund, who earns £85,000 a week at Old Trafford, has struggled in front of goal all season for United, and it could be that the Red Devils do move him on, so it allows them to bring in a suitable replacement. However, it is unclear if the Premier League side would be interested in doing a deal which sees them sign a new midfielder in Luiz, who earns a staggering £135,000 a week at Juventus despite barely making an impact. If there is going to be a player swap, United may want a striker for a striker instead of a new midfielder.

This summer is huge for Liverpool if they are to maintain the success they’ve endured throughout Arne Slot’s first season in charge of the football club.

His side claimed the Premier League title with multiple games to spare, but the real challenge will come next campaign, with a real battle expected at the top end of the table.

Manchester City and Arsenal are likely to spend big this summer to try and close the gap produced by the Reds in recent months, which could bring a tasty battle for the title in 2025/26.

However, if Slot’s men aren’t to get left behind by their rivals, they too will have to enter the transfer market and make key reinforcements in numerous areas across the pitch.

In recent weeks, one player has constantly been touted with a switch to Anfield, with another update in recent days shedding light on the situation in such a department.

Liverpool’s hunt for defensive reinforcements this summer

Dean Huijsen is the man most linked with a summer move to Liverpool, after previously holding talks with his representatives over a switch to join the Reds.

The Spaniard has a £50m release clause within his current deal at Bournemouth, but LaLiga giants Real Madrid have now made their own move for the 20-year-old sensation.

It remains to be seen if Slot’s men can complete a deal for him, turning their attention to another target in the form of Benfica star Tomas Araujo, according to Anfield Watch.

The report claims that the Reds’ hierarchy are keen on a move for the 22-year-old, who could also cover at right-back if needed, with Manchester United and Chelsea also keen on his signature.

It also states that the Portuguese youngster currently has a €80m (£67m) release clause in his deal, but it’s unclear whether a deal could be done for less than such a fee.

Talks have also allegedly been held with the player’s agent, Ali Barat, who coincidentally is also advising Huijsen. While Barat is driving Huijsen’s move to Stamford Bridge, discussions have also been held between Liverpool and the agent regarding a move for Araujo.

Why Liverpool’s £67m target would be the dream Huijsen alternative

Slot has done an excellent job in creating a seamless transition between taking the reins last summer from Jürgen Klopp, putting them level with Manchester United on 20 league titles in their history.

Their defensive department has played a key role in achieving such a record, conceding just 37 times in their 36 outings to date – the second-best record of any side in England’s top-flight.

The likes of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate have played a key role within the backline this campaign, with a move for any of the aforementioned targets adding further depth to the defensive unit.

Huijsen would undoubtedly be the supporters’ first choice given his rise in the Premier League with the Cherries, but a deal for Araujo could prove to be an excellent one should he move to Merseyside.

When comparing his stats to those of the Spaniard, he’s managed to match or better him in numerous key areas – showcasing how much of an excellent addition he would be to Slot’s squad.

Araujo, who’s been labelled “complete” by talent scout Antonio Mango, has managed to complete more of the passes he’s attempted, whilst completing more take-ons, handing the side the added ball-playing option within the backline.

He’s also managed to win more tackles and come out on top in more of the aerial battles he’s entered – offering a superb option within the backline to further bolster their defensive quality.

How Araujo compares to Huijsen in 2024/25

Statistics (per 90)

Araujo

Huijsen

Games played

27

30

Minutes played

2239

2324

Progressive passes

5.3

4.9

Pass accuracy

85%

83%

Tackles won

1.7

1

% of tackles won

75%

64%

Take-on success

55%

40%

Aerials won

61%

60%

Stats via FBref

His dominance over Huijsen is there for all to see based upon the stats produced by the pair, undoubtedly being the better option when pursuing a move for another centre-back this summer.

Whilst Araujo would cost a little bit more than the Spaniard, it’s a worthwhile investment, having all the tools to develop further, given his tender age of just 22.

If the club are to maintain the success endured this campaign, added squad depth is certainly needed, with a big-money deal for Araujo undoubtedly handing Slot just that.

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Posts ByAngus Sinclair May 14, 2025

There might be another 90 minutes to play, but for most Arsenal fans, the season is now done.

Instead of looking forward to what is now a pretty meaningless Premier League game on Sunday afternoon, supporters are beginning to dream about what the club might do in the summer transfer window.

After all, after last year, new Sporting Director Andrea Berta has a big job on his hands convincing them that the board are prepared to go all in to finally get the club over the line next season.

Fortunately, recent reports have now touted an international superstar for a move to the Gunners, someone who is just the sort of signing fans have been crying out for and someone who’d be a dream addition for Bukayo Saka.

Arsenal transfer news

The last few weeks have seen Arsenal linked to a plethora of incredibly talented footballers, such as Viktor Gyokeres and Eberechi Eze.

Transfer Focus

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The former could end up costing the club as little as £55m if reports are to be believed, which may well be one of the deals of the summer, as in just 51 games this term, he has scored 53 goals and provided 13 assists.

Eze, on the other hand, will cost around £68m due to a release clause in his current deal, although again, thanks to his ability to play in multiple positions and the fact he’s racked up 25 goal involvements in 42 games this season, makes that fee seem more than reasonable.

However, to really help take the team to another level and across the finishing line next season, Arteta and Co may want to sign a bonafide superstar, someone like Rodrygo.

According to a recent report from Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Arsenal are “now seriously considering” moving for the Real Madrid star.

The journalist has revealed that talks have already “begun behind the scenes” and that the deal is “on.”

The report does not mention a price, but according to other stories from earlier this month, the Brazilian winger could be available for around £85m.

It would be a complicated and costly transfer to get done, but given Rodrygo’s stature and ability, it’s one worth pushing the boat out for, especially as it would seriously help Saka as well.

Why Rodrygo would be a dream signing for Saka

So, if Arsenal are able to get the deal done and bring Rodryo to the Emirates this summer, just why would his signing be such a good thing for Saka?

Well, the first thing is that he’d finally be able to take some of the burden off his shoulders, as not only is he a natural left-winger, but he’s one who knows just where the goal is.

Said to be among the “best players in the world” by Carlo Ancelotti, in 52 appearances last season, he scored 18 goals and provided nine assists in 52 games, which worked out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.92 games.

Then this season, even though Los Blancos have struggled more, he’s still managed to put up impressive numbers of 13 goals and 10 assists in 50 appearances, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.17 games.

For context, Gabriel Martinelli has scored ten goals and provided six assists in as many games, and Leandro Trossard has scored ten goals and provided nine assists in 55 games.

Rodrygo vs Martinelli vs Trossard

Players

Rodrygo

Martinelli

Trossard

Appearances

50

50

55

Minutes

3290′

3493′

3428′

Goals

13

10

10

Assists

10

6

9

Goal Involvements per Match

0.46

0.32

0.34

Minutes per Goal Involvement

143.04′

218.31′

180.42′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

So, with someone as effective as the Brazilian off the left, the Gunners mercurial number seven wouldn’t have to do quite as much himself, which could help him perform better.

The next significant benefit to signing the Real ace is that he’s more than comfortable playing off the right as well, so Arteta could more easily rest the Hale End superstar and help prevent him from suffering any more serious injuries.

Finally, during his time in Madrid, the Osasco-born dynamo has won everything there is to win in the club game, from league titles to the Champions League, so his know-how in those tense must-win games could finally help the North Londoners get over the line next season, and in turn, help Saka achieve his dreams of leading the team to glory.

Ultimately, while he’ll cost them a pretty penny, Arsenal should be doing all they can to sign Rodrygo this summer, as not only would he help elevate the whole team, but he could also be the perfect teammate for Saka.

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Posts ByJack Salveson Holmes May 21, 2025

Liverpool have played a blinder, engineering a £10m deal with Real Madrid for Trent Alexander-Arnold, the Spanish giants paying a premium to sign the right-back in time for the Club World Cup.

For context, Los Blancos have just forked out a third of what Liverpool have paid to Bayer Leverkusen for Jeremie Frimpong, who signed on Friday in a deal worth £29.5m.

Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards are proving to be quite the dream team, all right, having absorbed criticism for a lack of spending across the past two transfer windows, only to now fire across every cylinder to strengthen Arne Slot’s Premier League champions.

Anfield is in good hands, and while supporters are getting excited over the prospect of Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez and Leverkusen sensation Florian Wirtz joining the crew, there’s more to come.

Namely, Liverpool want a new centre-forward.

Liverpool's hunt for a striker

Darwin Nunez has played his final game for Liverpool. Arriving from Benfica in a deal rising to £85m in 2022, the Uruguayan has faced consistent criticism for his poor finishing and struggles to impose himself in the Premier League.

And now, he’s expected to depart, with interest arising from Spain and the Saudi Pro League.

Under Slot’s wing, Nunez, 25, has bagged just seven goals from 47 matches in all competitions. To put that another way, he failed to score in 42 appearances.

With Diogo Jota also struggling to perform this term after being plagued by setbacks for most of his Liverpool career, rumours have surfaced of his potential sale too.

With Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak out of bounds, Liverpool seem to have centred on Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike, though they face stiff competition from Chelsea, who remain keen despite closing on the £30m signing of Liam Delap.

FSG always like to have a contingency plan, but if recent reports are to be believed, their back-up option might not be the name on fans’ lips.

Liverpool add new CF to shortlist

According to Liverpool reporter Sam McGuire, Liverpool have added Paris Saint-Germain’s Goncalo Ramos to their shortlist as Slot looks for ways to improve his title-winning squad

It’s stressed that the 23-year-old isn’t at the top of the shopping list but is under consideration, with FSG’s data-driven approach suggesting he could be a superstar in the making.

Former Liverpool sporting director Julian Ward was desperate to sign Ramos in 2022, but Jurgen Klopp was captivated by Nunez and forged ahead with his gambit.

What Goncalo Ramos would bring to Liverpool

Benfica-reared strikers, ay. Liverpool know all about them.

Signing Nunez proved a failed ploy, for the striker has fallen by the wayside and Liverpool need to find a new out-and-out striker to help Mohamed Salah and co.

Is Ramos the right man for the job? It’s debatable. Luis Enrique has used the Portugal international sparingly this season, limiting him to just 16 starts across all competitions, albeit having bagged 18 goals and provided six assists.

Liverpool have already been fleeced for a Benfica talent in the past, and though Ramos wouldn’t be arriving directly from the Liga Portugal, he emerged from the Eagles academy, scored 41 goals across 106 fixtures before signing for PSG in an €80m (£67m) deal.

No transfer figure has been attributed to Liverpool’s ostensible interest, but there’s a good chance the French giants would be seeking a hefty figure for a young player whose up-and-down start has still led him to 40 goal contributions from 80 matches.

And since he’s failed to showcase his best attributes in Ligue 1 this season, you could argue that Ramos would just turn out to be another version of Nunez, were Liverpool to make their move this summer.

League Stats 24/25 – Darwin Nunez vs Goncalo Ramos

Stats (* per game)

Nunez

Ramos

Matches (starts)

30 (8)

22 (12)

Goals

5

10

Assists

2

3

Shots (on target)*

1.1 (0.4)

2.5 (1.5)

Big chances missed

8

18

Accurate passes*

5.3 (71%)

8.7 (81%)

Key passes*

0.4

0 7

Dribbles*

0.3

0.1

Tackles + interceptions*

0.8

0.5

Duels won*

2.1

2.0

Stats via Sofascore

It’s somewhat concerning to note that Ramos has scarcely completed any dribbles in the league this season, instead hanging in the final third to reap the rewards of his energetic teammates’ labours.

And more concerning still is his profligacy, having missed 18 big chances despite only scoring ten goals. This is not the mark of a natural-born goalscorer, fit to take Nunez’s place and prove to Anfield he is vastly superior.

As per FBref, Ramos does rank among the top 9% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for pass completion, but there’s nothing of much note in relation to his underlying data.

Once heralded by talent scout Jacek Kulig for his “outrageous start” to life in Portugal’s national team, Ramos might be a talented player but he’s not proven himself worthy of leading Liverpool’s line next season, lest fans be forced into a continuation of the plight that has beset Nunez’s journey on Merseyside.

Instead, Slot needs a confident goalscorer who will provide a sustained, elite-level threat, so this is maybe one for FSG to park and focus on alternative targets instead.

Ultimately, it’s too early to tell how concrete Liverpool’s interest is with this one, but if recent rumours are to be believed, intrigue is indeed there and the Reds could opt to make a leftfield investment to strengthen their frontline.

Slot’s Liverpool is already jam-packed with talented forwards, and perhaps the question needs to be raised as to whether Ramos would enhance this team, having left much to be desired with his finishing.

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Posts ByAngus Sinclair May 30, 2025

It’s not hard to work out Arsenal’s most significant area of need this summer.

This season has proven beyond all doubt that Mikel Arteta’s side need a new striker, not only to help cover for injuries but to come in and replace Kai Havertz in the starting lineup.

The first choice among the majority of fans would likely be the simply unreal Alexander Isak, who has been linked with the club on many an occasion in the past.

However, it was reported that he could cost up to £150m earlier this year, and since the Toon qualified for the Champions League, we can only assume that the price tag has increased further.

Yet, the good news is that the Gunners are now being heavily linked with a centre-forward who could be their own Isak.

Arsenal's striker search

Given Arsenal’s need for a new striker this summer, it’s hardly been a surprise to see them linked with a plethora of free-scoring forwards in recent weeks and months, such as Viktor Gyokeres and Ollie Watkins.

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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The former could reportedly cost around £59m and has a simply sensational tally of 54 goals and 13 assists in 52 games for Sporting CP this term, but a lack of a track record in a top-five league makes the comparison to Isak difficult.

Watkins, on the other hand, has that experience and a brilliant haul of 17 goals and 14 assists to his name in 54 games this season, but with him set to turn 30 at the end of the year, he’s too old to draw paralells to the Swedish superstar.

Fortunately, another centre-forward has been heavily touted for a move to the Emirates, someone who very much could be compared to the Toon star: Benjamin Sesko.

Yes, according to a recent report by journalist Ben Jacobs, Arsenal have maintained their intense interest in the RB Leipzig star.

In fact, Jacobs goes a step further, stating that it now “looks like they [Arsenal] are going to make a bid for Benjamin Sesko,” and that while he has a €80m release clause in his current deal, which is about £67m they’d “like to negotiate something a little lower.”

It might be a costly deal to get over the line, but given Sesko’s impressive ability and potential, it would be more than worth fighting for, especially as he could be the club’s answer to Isak.

Why Sesko could be Arsenal's Isak

So, the first thing to say is that we are not trying to claim that Sesko is as good a striker as Isak at the moment.

After all, the Swedish international is arguably one of the best in the business, and his brilliant tally of 27 goals and six assists in 42 games this season proves as much.

However, there are some key ways in which signing the Slovenian star could be looked upon as the Gunners recruiting their own version of the Newcastle phenom, but before he’s quite at the same level.

For example, the “incredible” Leipzig ace, as dubbed by The Athletic’s Alex Barker, only turned 22 this season, whereas the Toon’s talisman reached that age in the 21/22 season while he was still plying his trade in Spain with Real Sociedad.

That campaign saw the Solna-born monster rack up a decent but hardly earth-shattering haul of ten goals and three assists in 41 appearances, totalling 2761 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 3.15 games, or 212.38 minutes.

Sesko 24/25 vs Isak 21/22

Player

Sesko

Isak

Appearances

45

41

Minutes

3258′

2761′

Goals

21

10

Assists

6

3

Goal Involvements per Match

0.6

0.31

Minutes per Goal Involvement

120.66′

212.38′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

In contrast, the Gunners’ current target scored 21 goals and provided six assists in 45 appearances, totalling 3258 minutes, which comes out to a better average of a goal involvement every 1.66 games or every 120.66 minutes.

Furthermore, just as respected analysts and scouts like Jacek Kulig were describing the then-Sociedad gem as “simply amazing,” the likes of EBL have recently claimed that the former RB Salzburg ace “has the potential to become the best #9 in the world.”

Ultimately, it’s unlikely that Sesko will be able to reach the same level as Isak next season, but in a couple of years, there is a genuine chance we could be looking at the two strikers as equals, and for that reason, Arsenal should be doing all they can to sign him this summer.

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Posts ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 4, 2025

Leeds United have now identified a “world-class” goalkeeper as a prime target to replace Illan Meslier, with Daniel Farke now open to sanctioning the Frenchman’s departure, according to a report.

Leeds planning to replace error-prone Meslier

Speaking back in February, former Leeds man Paul Robinson praised Farke for the way in which he had dealt with Meslier, saying: “He’s a confidence goalkeeper and the manager has been excellent with him. That’s one thing you can ask for as a goalkeeper.”

However, the 48-year-old ultimately lost faith in his goalkeeper, with Karl Darlow being given the nod between the sticks during the promotion run-in, and the manager’s lack of trust in the shot-stopper may have damaged his confidence.

With Meslier’s blunders costing Farke’s side 10 points last season, it would be a huge risk for the manager to persist with the 25-year-old as his number one, and a report from TEAMtalk has revealed the German is now open to a sale this summer.

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It is also detailed that Leeds have now identified Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic as a prime target to replace Meslier, with the Blues making the decision to place the Serbian on their transfer list, and they are open to offers of around £25m.

The Whites have registered their interest in Petrovic, but there is widespread interest in the goalkeeper’s signature, with the likes of Aston Villa, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Brenford also keen, alongside some top clubs from across Europe.

The Championship title-winners are seemingly very keen to get a deal done, despite potentially having to do battle with Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen, with the report stating they are now ready to step up their pursuit of the goalkeeper.

"World-class" Petrovic could be ideal Meslier replacement

It is no surprise that Farke is willing to cash-in on Meslier this summer, and there are plenty of indications the Chelsea shot-stopper could be an ideal replacement, with his performances on loan at Strasbourg last season deemed to be at a very high level.

Indeed, manager Liam Rosenior was left enamoured by the Serbia international’s development, saying: “We have seen huge progress from Petro.

“He is a world-class goalkeeper. We see it every day and it is still paying off today.”

It is a bold claim to put the former New England Revolution man in the world-class category, but to a certain extent Rosenior’s assessment is backed up by the underlying data, as his save percentage over the past year has been very impressive.

Statistic

Average per 90

Save %

78.9% (98th percentile)

Clean sheet %

32.3% (76th percentile)

Crosses stopped %

8.4% (82nd percentile)

As such, it could perhaps be considered a little unusual that Chelsea are willing to part ways with Petrovic this summer, but their loss could be Leeds’ gain.