All posts by n8rngtd.top

Celtic are likely to have several reinforcements up their sleeve this summer and may look to strike in the market for a proven goalscorer to supplement their options in attack.

Brendan Rodgers set for an exciting summer at Celtic

With the Scottish Premiership season now hurtling towards the final hurdle, Celtic are now waiting to find out the order of their post-split opponents to determine where they will confirm themselves as league champions.

The Bhoys’ convincing win over Kilmarnock, coupled with Rangers’ draw at Aberdeen the following day, has left Brendan Rodgers’ men needing one point to clinch a fourth successive top-flight title to cap off another excellent campaign.

While the prospect of a domestic treble is firmly in sight, the Irishman has already turned his attention to the summer transfer window, and Celtic are said to be lining up a deal for Mathias Kvistgaarden to strengthen their forward line.

The Brondby star is a long-term target at Parkhead, though he is unlikely to be the only name pursued in Rodgers’ mission to bolster the ranks ahead of upcoming Champions League qualifiers.

Slovan Bratislava forward David Strelec is another on Celtic’s wishlist. After the Hoops tried and failed to land his services in January, he may be attainable for a package of £5.9 million inclusive of add-ons.

Another action-packed window is nearly upon us and the reigning Scottish champions are expected to make inroads in their quest to beef up a slim pool of talent at centre-forward.

Now, there could be an intriguing target on the agenda, according to former Liverpool star turned prominent pundit Didi Hamann.

Hamann: Danny Ings is 'certainly' on the radar of Celtic

According to reports relayed by The Daily Record, Hamann noted that West Ham forward Danny Ings will ‘certainly’ be on Celtic’s radar. The German pundit has backed the England international to prove a hit north of the border should a move to Parkhead materialise.

He stated: “Could Danny Ings be a success at Celtic? Absolutely. His playing time at West Ham has been restricted, and I think Celtic would be a great option for him.

Ruthless Brendan Rodgers could now get rid of big Celtic names this summer

The Hoops manager isn’t messing around.

1

By
Henry Jackson

Apr 13, 2025

“The standard of football is not quite as high as the Premier League, and I think he could get a new lease of life up there. He will certainly be on the radar of Celtic and maybe Rangers because he has a proven record of putting the ball into the net. If you make chances for him he will show you where the goal is for sure.”

Earning £125,000 per week at West Ham, Ings has scored 121 career goals in total, with 120 coming at club level alongside a solitary goal for the Three Lions against Wales in 2020.

Despite the initial concern about his wages, the 32-year-old is set to leave the London Stadium on a free transfer at the end of the season, which may appeal to Celtic in their pursuit of a prolific marksman.

After a period where he has been limited to 15 appearances at the Hammers, most coming as a substitute, there could be a viable route to Ings reigniting his career under Rodgers.

For the 12th time in the Premier League this season, Manchester United – now residing in 13th in the table – failed to score last time out, having played out a drab goalless draw with rivals Manchester City on Sunday afternoon.

With just seven games remaining in the league in 2024/25, United have currently scored just 37 goals, notably placing them behind 17th-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers, who have scored 43 times to date.

As was evident at the weekend, there is a clear lack of confidence and ruthlessness in the attacking third for the Old Trafford side, a point emphasised by the fact that Bruno Fernandes currently leads the way with just eight league goals.

Ruben Amorim’s senior strikers – in the form of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee – have netted just six times in the top-flight between them, a fact that has only heightened the need for a new number nine this summer.

Rumours are already rife regarding the potential targets who could solve United’s goalscoring woes, with Amorim seemingly keen on a reunion with Sporting CP sensation, Viktor Gyokeres, ahead of next season.

Latest on Man Utd's interest in Gyokeres

Amorim must be tearing his hair out at the limp nature of his forward line at Old Trafford, not least having witnessed the breathtaking brilliance of that man Gyokeres back in Lisbon.

Indeed, the towering Swede scored 66 goals in just 68 games while working under the Portuguese coach, with the 26-year-old proving vital in last season’s title triumph, having netted 43 times in all competitions.

Unsurprisingly, there have been suggestions that Amorim is ready to raid his former club for the signing of the ex-Coventry City striker, with reports in recent days claiming that a bid may have even been lodged by the United hierarchy.

That said, The Athletic’s David Ornstein has also outlined that Premier League rivals Arsenal are pursuing a move for the prolific marksman, with the Gunners said to be ‘developing a strong interest’ in landing the Sporting talisman.

As for the Red Devils, journalist Laurie Whitwell – also of the The Athletic – did previously claim that a pursuit of Gyokeres could be ‘unlikely’ due to his age and the player’s own desire for Champions League football, throwing into a doubt the prospect of a renewed association with Amorim.

That could leave the 40-year-old having to look elsewhere to find his next centre-forward project, while among his current ranks, he could be able to mould another attacking superstar at the Theatre of Dreams.

The Man Utd star who's worth even more than Gyokeres

As Amorim outlined following the Sunday stalemate, his side “need to improve in every aspect of the game”, having particularly highlighted the “final third” as a key point of concern.

That latest encounter saw the aforementioned Hojlund register just two touches in the opposition half – no, not penalty area – in the first half, a staggering statistic that represents the young Dane’s stark lack of impact.

On a day in which much of the United magic came from skipper, Bruno Fernandes, another “shining light” – as described by BBC pundit, Troy Deeney – was young Alejandro Garnacho, with the polarising Argentine at least attempting to make things happen for his side.

The 20-year-old had come under fire for his ‘naive’ performance against Nottingham Forest in midweek – in the view of MEN journalist Samuel Luckhurst – although he looked lively throughout against City, having notably won an early foul just outside the area after racing in behind the visiting backline.

Even against Forest, while he did fire three shots off target, the former Atletico Madrid starlet looked like the only player – excluding Fernandes – capable of making something happen for his side in an attacking sense, with the likes of Zirkzee and Hojlund having been rather lifeless through the middle.

Of course, Garnacho – who was a target for Chelsea in January – is among those who United could cash in on this summer, but it would be a crying shame to sell a player who has shown so much promise over the last two years or so.

The star of an FA Youth Cup final and FA Cup final – having scored three goals across those two marquee games – the rampaging winger is still a young talent learning his trade, having perhaps even been overused amid the lack of other attacking alternatives.

Take Gyokeres, for instance, who at the age of 20 was merely operating in the Brighton youth ranks, having needed a string of loan spells and an eventual move to Coventry to ultimately find his feet at senior level.

Garnacho then should have ample time to reach his peak, with his sky high potential also highlighted by the fact that he is deemed to be worth around £83m, according to CIES Football Observatory, with Gyokeres, meanwhile, valued at ‘just’ £63m.

Transfer Focus

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

Fans and pundits alike may be losing patience with Garnacho due to the fact he has scored just twice since Amorim took charge, yet as the derby showcased, he is still a player capable of getting bums of seats. That certainly can’t be said for most at Old Trafford…

Worse than Ugarte: Amorim must axe 4/10 Man Utd man who made just 7 passes

It was not a game to remember at Old Trafford…

2

By
Joe Nuttall

Apr 6, 2025

Arsenal booked their place in the Champions League semi-final last night with a sensational 2-1 win over defending champions Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.

The victory secured a 5-1 aggregate win, putting a stop to the Spanish outfit’s chances of making it back-to-back European triumphs after their win at Wembley against Borussia Dortmund last season.

Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli’s second-half strikes were enough for Mikel Arteta’s men to advance to the next stage of the competition, subsequently setting up a tie with French giants PSG.

It was a superb showing from the Gunners in Madrid, restricting Carlo Ancelotti’s side to limited opportunities and preventing his star-studded side from making yet another miraculous comeback.

Numerous players starred during the victory, playing a pivotal role in their chances of landing their first-ever European trophy in the coming months.

Arsenal’s star performers against Real Madrid

Mikel Merino once again started as Arsenal’s main centre-forward, not looking out of place and producing yet another impressive showing at the top end of the pitch.

The Spaniard registered two assists in the win and completed four passes into the final third, providing numerous opportunities for other attackers, as seen by his assist tally.

Declan Rice picked up where he left off from the first leg, completing 96% of the passes he attempted, three of which were into the final third, starring with the ball at his feet.

Out of possession, the 26-year-old was just as impressive, winning 100% of the tackles he entered, whilst making four interceptions, restricting the likes of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior for large spells.

Despite the showings of the aforementioned duo, one other player hugely impressed at the Bernabeu – easily walking into Madrid’s side after such a showing.

The 8/10 Arsenal star who showed he would walk into Madrid’s team

For many years, Madrid have been the golden boys of European football, as seen by their tally of 15 titles – the most of any side in the competition’s history.

Six of their victories have come since 2010, but Arteta’s side produced an incredible showing over two legs to stop their chances of extending their record as the most successful side in history.

Given the stature of the club, only the best talents in the world could be able to cement their place in the squad, but Gunners full-back Jurrien Timber certainly wouldn’t look out of place within their side.

The Dutchman produced a sensational showing against the Spanish outfit last night, arguably his best since returning to action after missing the majority of his debut season through injury.

Timber featured for 89 minutes of the clash, limiting Vini Jr to minimal chances throughout the contest, making four recoveries to stop their Brazilian.

He also made five passes into the final third, with such a tally being 50% of all the passes he completed during the game, offering Arteta’s side a quick transition on the counterattack.

His impressive showing didn’t stop there, winning three ground duels, only being dispossessed once in what was a superb all-round performance from the 23-year-old – leading to one content creator labelling him as “phenomenal”.

To top off his excellent showing, he was handed an 8/10 match rating by the Evening Standard’s Simon Collings – further highlighting how much of a key role he played at the Bernabeu.

Given Madrid’s issues in the right-back role, there’s no denying the Dutchman would be able to star in their side, with the Gunners having a huge talent on their hands.

If they are to go all the way and win the competition this season, Timber will undoubtedly play a key role, potentially providing the difference in the next couple of rounds.

Bigger star than MLS & Nwaneri: Arsenal plotting bid for "skilful" talent

Arsenal are set to make a bid for a talented star who could be a bigger star than two young gems.

By
Ethan Lamb

Apr 16, 2025

The celebrations stretched deep into the night. Liverpool won the Premier League last weekend, in case a reminder is due, after Arne Slot’s side gave Tottenham Hotspur a hiding to clinch the club’s 20th top-flight trophy.

It was a poetic way to seal the title, the 5-1 victory a consummate showing of Liverpool’s attacking flair, their togetherness, their hunger.

Even Slot, who has been so businesslike and cool throughout his debut campaign in the dugout, allowed himself to get lost in the occasion, bellowing his predecessor’s name in the wake of his big win. A fitting tribute. Further evidence, if any more is needed, that he is the man to lead this bunch.

One season is all it takes for this brilliant coach, but he and his players will be desperate to consolidate this new chapter with more silverware in the coming years. That means signings are needed.

Federico Chiesa, whose impact has been minimal, remains the only first-team addition since August 2023, and while this is a balanced squad of ample depth, Andy Robertson, 31, looks a mite blunter than before, with the growing interest in Milos Kerkez evidence that left-back is a priority position for FSG.

Liverpool's pursuit of Milos Kerkez

Let’s remember from the off: Richard Hughes was the man who engineered Bournemouth’s signing of Kerkez two years ago, bringing the prospect, 19 at the time, in from AZ Alkmaar for a reported £15m fee.

The Cherries have most certainly got bang for their buck, but could strike richer still by selling him this summer. Kerkez feels destined for a transfer away to a team competing in the Champions League.

However, Liverpool are no bullies and won’t push for a deal until Andoni Iraola’s quest for a Europe-qualifying finish is wrapped up, one way or another.

The Times reported in March that Liverpool were actively pursuing the 21-year-old, who is valued at £45m. This is steep. Moreover, Sky Sports News have revealed that Manchester City and Real Madrid have now registered interest of their own.

Each party will be confident in the chips in front of them, but honestly, it’s too early to determine the likelihood of Kerkez’s direction until one or all show their hand.

However, though Liverpool admire the Premier League “revelation,” they know how it goes in the market and appear to have centred on an alternative, just in case.

Interestingly, though, this fallback may prove to be an even better signing than the Vitality Stadium man.

Liverpool eyeing Kerkez alternative

According to Sky Sports’ Lyall Thomas, Liverpool are interested in signing Wolverhampton Wanderers star Rayan Ait-Nouri.

Molineux are growing resigned to the fact that Ait-Nouri has earned the right to search for the next step in his career, should a suitable bid be received, having been one of their standout performers over the past several years.

The 23-year-old wouldn’t come cheap; in fact, with a supposed value of £51m, he’d cost FSG more than if they were to move for Kerkez. However, Ait-Nouri has the tactical grasp to slot right into Liverpool’s high-flying system.

Why Ait-Nouri would be perfect for Slot

Ait-Nouri might have made 131 appearances in the Premier League but he’s still so young, still has so much potential to tap into.

The Algeria international, born in France, was described as an “incredible talent” by ex-Old Gold boss Gary O’Neil, with his performances this season leading to four goals and seven assists across 33 Premier League outings. He also bagged against Bristol City in the FA Cup.

His eye for goal, both directly and through a playmaking lens, is something to behold, but it’s only one part of a completeness that few full-backs can harness.

Underscoring that point, he ranks among the top 6% of Premier League full-backs this season for goal involvements and the top 4% for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref, emphasising that robust athleticism and attacking quality.

It’s worth noting Robertson has yet to score or assist in the Premier League this term, having typically been an unceasing source of output under Jurgen Klopp.

He’s still an experienced and valued part of the team, not least because of his deep-rooted connection with Virgil van Dijk, but Kostas Tsimikas has never managed to make the berth his own and will likely be sold to make way for one of Ait-Nouri or Kerkez this summer.

Looking more closely at the transfer targets in question, the case could be made that, yes, Ait-Nouri is the player to go for.

There’s a lot to unpack in that table, but you can clearly see Ait-Nouri is more energetic and active than his Bournemouth counterpart, edging him in creative metrics too.

If the Anfield test serves as an audition for potential targets, Ait-Nouri passed with flying colours back in February, subduing Mohamed Salah as Liverpool scraped their way to a nail-biting victory.

The Algerian won five duels, made two dribbles and made two further key passes, also making three clearances as he contributed toward a second half in which the Reds failed to attempt a single shot.

Kerkez has been one of the emerging success stories in the English top division this year, but Ait-Nouri has the sweeping skills to make a real difference in Slot’s team, combative and determined in defence with an offensive dimension that is singular in its residence on the left flank of the field.

He was even hailed as “one of the Premier League’s best players in 2024” by Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley. And you could change the four to five in that quote; Ait-Nouri has only gone from strength to strength under Vitor Pereira’s wing, instrumental in Wolves’ ongoing six-game winning run, striking a goal-and-assist performance against Spurs and assisting again during the recent 3-0 win over doomed Leicester City.

Transfer Focus

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

Either left-back would be a welcome and worthy addition to Slot’s project. But if we’re being pedantic – and you best believe Liverpool’s data-driven analysts are among the most scrupulous in the business – Ait-Nouri is the one to go for.

The new Gravenberch: Liverpool ready bid for "one of the best in the world"

Liverpool are set to make a bid for a talent who could be Arne Slot’s next Ryan Gravenberch.

By
Ethan Lamb

May 1, 2025

Even after earning promotion to the Premier League, Leeds United could be about to lose one of Daniel Farke’s star men amid reports that Barcelona are now plotting a summer swoop for his signature.

Leeds celebrate title success

Whilst Leeds had reason to celebrate with or without the Championship title after earning automatic promotion, silverware simply added the cherry on top of what was a season full of moments to savour.

The open-top bus parade was for those who could not celebrate promotion in the 2019/20 campaign, and it more than made up for lost time as those in Yorkshire partied through the night.

Daniel Farke spoke about the pride that he has in his side after eventually coming out on top in the Championship, telling reporters: “I felt empty at the final whistle. I was too tired to celebrate. Even at half-time, it was complicated because I wanted to give the right message. I am proud to have achieved what we wanted to.

“Looking forward to being on the coach home and to close my eyes. I have to be ready again to celebrate this evening. Next week will be celebrating. I need the summer to recharge my energy.”

Agent aware: Leeds now serious about signing Ligue 1's best shot-stopper

He could replace Meslier.

By
Tom Cunningham

May 10, 2025

At some point, of course, the celebrations will come to an end, and that’s when the focus may well shift towards what is a crucial summer transfer window for all involved at Elland Road. Leeds must get things right if they are to stay up, and it looks as though the 49ers are willing to spend the money to do exactly that.

Whilst reports have centred around potential incomings, Leeds could yet lose one of Farke’s most experienced players when the summer transfer window arrives.

Barcelona plotting Junior Firpo move

According to transfer reporter Graeme Bailey, Barcelona are now plotting a summer swoop to sign Junior Firpo, who is currently on course to leave Leeds as a free agent at the end of June. Yet to sign a new contract, the defender’s agent has now reportedly held talks with a number of suitors, which may have included Barcelona.

Reporting on Firpo’s future, Bailey told Leeds United News: “He’s been speaking to numerous clubs, Spain is close to his heart. There appears to be a preference, I do know he’s had a lot more interest in recent weeks. Which is not a surprise, given his performances.

“There has been some interest in England, Everton, with Angus Kinnear and Nick Hammond. It’s down to Firpo, I am told he inching towards Spain. Barcelona have even looked at him as a no.2, Betis are there as well. It does sound like he’s heading back to Spain; his people have had a lot of talks.”

Hailed for his “tremendous” performances this past term, Firpo could now be about to take his talents to one of the biggest clubs that European football has to offer.

Leeds United have a huge task to recruit well this summer, handing themselves the best possible chance of securing Premier League survival in 2025/26.

Daniel Farke has done a superb job in leading the Whites back to the top-flight, but now needs to reestablish their status in such a division after a two-year absence.

It has previously been reported that the boss has a budget of around £100m to make new additions to make the improvements he desires to the current crop of players.

The funds may not be enough this summer, with Farke potentially needing more money at his disposal if he is to make key additions to the squad and offer needed depth, with quality and quantity desperately required.

With the transfer window rapidly approaching, numerous players have already emerged on their list, potentially moving to Elland Road during the off-season should deals be agreed.

The latest on Leeds’ hunt for new additions this summer

The Whites’ hierarchy haven’t been afraid to splash the cash in their recent stint in the Premier League, with the same expected during the next couple of months.

Everton’s Beto and Manchester City’s James McAtee have both already been tipped to make a switch to Elland Road during the off-season, but both could cost a pretty penny.

However, they aren’t the only Premier League talents linked, with West Ham United middle Tomas Soucek also on their radar, according to TBR Football.

The report claims that the hierarchy have already held talks with the 30-year-old Czech international, but could face stiff competition from Everton this summer.

It also states that he’s not seen as part of Graham Potter’s long-term plans at the London Stadium, opening the door to a potential exit, with the Hammers demanding a fee in the region of £20m.

Why Leeds’ £20m target could be Farke’s own Phillips

During Leeds’ previous stint in the Premier League, midfielder Kalvin Phillips played a key role in their success, often being the leading talent at the base of the side.

He made 49 top-flight appearances for the Whites over a two-year period, helping them fend off any looming threats of relegation under Marcelo Bielsa and Jesse Marsch.

The now 29-year-old has since struggled to replicate such levels in recent years, leaving Yorkshire and joining Manchester City back in 2022 for a fee in the region of £45m.

It was an excellent fee received for an academy graduate, but they’ve since lost that commanding and battling presence – something which undoubtedly contributed to their subsequent relegation.

However, a move for Soucek could provide Farke with the combative player he needs for a Premier League season, with the Hammers star’s stats proving his quality this campaign.

The 30-year-old, who’s been labelled “sensational” by presenter Jim White, has managed to register 10 combined goals and assists from his holding midfield role – handing Farke added reinforcements aerially in the final third should he require it.

However, defensively, he could provide that quality missing since Phillips’ departure, winning 58% of the tackles he’s entered this campaign, along with a higher tally of clearances made per 90.

His talents don’t stop there, completing more take-ons per 90 this season, offering the side a cool head when in possession – something which will likely be required if they are to avoid the drop.

£20m for an experienced player of Soucek’s quality could prove to be somewhat of a bargain, handing Farke the tools to have the best chance of maintaining their top-flight status.

Should he complete a switch to Yorkshire and get anywhere near the levels produced by the academy graduate, it would be a superb addition, injecting needed quality into the midfield department.

The dream Firpo replacement: Leeds plotting move for "phenomenal" £17m star

Leeds United could be about to forget about Junior Firpo with a move for one defensive star.

By
Ethan Lamb

May 16, 2025

In a move that would instantly boost their attacking options, Aston Villa now reportedly want to sign a Premier League rival who put on an impressive performance in front of Unai Emery earlier this season.

Aston Villa's summer plans taking shape amid PSR concerns

It’s a big summer for the Villans. Even if they don’t have Champions League football to offer, those in the Midlands must maintain the level of Unai Emery’s side and they must do so whilst complying with PSR rules. That’s what may hold them back, however. According to recent reports, Aston Villa will likely have to sell before buying this summer if they want to avoid breaking any profit and sustainability rules.

To that end, the rumours have already been coming thick and fast over just who Aston Villa could sell this summer to avoid any potential sanctions. Among those mentioned is Morgan Rogers. The talented midfielder has enjoyed an excellent season in the Midlands, attracting plenty of interest as a result, and his sale would certainly ease Villa’s concerns.

Given just how impressive he’s been this season, though, it seems unlikely that Villa will be desperate to part ways with Rogers to a Champions League rival such as Chelsea this summer.

Deam Watkins replacement: Aston Villa pushing to sign "legendary" star

Aston Villa may have to sell Ollie Watkins this summer.

By
Ross Kilvington

May 16, 2025

However, such a sale would at least allow sporting director Monchi to welcome a number of fresh faces and potentially get permanent deals over the line for Marco Asensio and Marcus Rashford.

Those in the Midlands club are seemingly in for a busy summer on all fronts, with new targets beginning to emerge and star players finding themselves on the radar of several rival clubs.

Aston Villa eyeing "unbelievable" Joao Pedro

According to Caught Offside, Aston Villa now want to sign Joao Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion, who are set to demand as much as €60m (£51m) to sell the Brazilian this summer. The forward hasn’t quite been as consistent as last season, but that hasn’t stopped him from leaving his mark in the Premier League, with 10 goals and six assists to his name.

Emery should already be more than familiar with the 23-year-old’s quality too, after getting a first-hand glimpse when Pedro created both of Brighton’s goals in a dramatic 2-2 draw at Villa Park earlier this season.

Brighton’s asking price should come as little surprise, either. Pedro is clearly rated highly at The Amex and Fabian Hurzeler’s praise has reflected that this season. The Seagulls boss told reporters back in November when asked about his forward after a 2-1 win over Bournemouth: “In possession he is unbelievable. He makes the difference for us today.

“It’s also very important to see how he works against the ball. He invests a lot out of possession. He does a lot of work in the shadow and the work that is unseen. That’s why it is very good to have him as a leader on the pitch.”

Newcastle United will have to evaluate their attacking targets this summer. Eddie Howe will surely be keen to build on what was a successful 2024/25 campaign for his side, who won the Carabao Cup and secured Champions League qualification thanks to their Premier League finish.

Unfortunately for the Magpies, it seems as though their primary attacking target this summer, Bryan Mbeumo, will join Manchester United.

Highly reputable journalist David Ornstein reported on June 2nd that the Brentford star has decided he wants to join the Red Devils this summer, picking them over the likes of Newcastle.

So, with Mbeumo off the table, the North East giants will have to turn their attention elsewhere when it comes to attacking targets.

Newcastle's Mbeumo alternative

There is no doubt that, for Newcastle, losing a player like Mbeumo, who would have slotted into their side nicely on the right wing, is a huge blow to the project. However, it seems as though they have identified the alternative.

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 a recent report from journalist Christian Falk, the Magpies are ‘interested in signing’ Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman, a player who Bayern are ‘are looking to offload’ this summer.

However, the 28-year-old France international is not just a target for the Premier League outfit, but also for La Liga giants Barcelona.

Barca are focusing on moves for Liverpool winger Luis Diaz and Man United sensation Marcus Rashford, but could move for Coman if those deals do not materialise. As for the price, Sky Germany reported in March that Bayern would want upwards of £34m for the attacker.

How Coman compares to Mbeumo

It wasn’t necessarily the easiest season for Coman. He struggled with a couple of injuries and perhaps did not play as much of an important role under Vincent Kompany as he may have liked, as Bayern went on to reclaim the Bundesliga title.

In 41 appearances across all competitions, the France international, who was born in Paris and came through PSG’s academy, played 41 games in total. In that time, he scored seven goals and grabbed four assists.

Breaking that down further, we can look at Coman’s stats in the German top flight, which, if anything, highlight just how sparse his involvement was this term. The 28-year-old played 28 games, with his 1,280 minutes the equivalent of 14 full games. A high point of his season was surely the goal and assist he grabbed in a 3-0 win at home to Union Berlin.

Yet, despite a season of much frustration for Coman, he could certainly benefit the Magpies. He is a serial winner, having lifted 30 major titles during his career. After all, there is a reason he’s previously been labelled as “one of the best players in the world” by Oliver Kahn.

Perhaps, with that in mind, he’d make a great alternative to Mbeumo, who seems destined for Old Trafford. The Cameroon international was sensational last season, with 20 goals and eight assists in the Premier League.

However, despite the fact that he performed so well last term, and has done for the past few years now, the experience that Coman would bring to the Newcastle squad is not necessarily something that the Brentford winger could match.

Indeed, the underlying numbers on FBref suggest that the Frenchman would be an apt alternative, too. For example, last season, Coman averaged 0.77 goal-creating actions per 90 minutes, compared to just 0.53 goal-creating actions each game for the Bees talisman.

There is no doubt that losing out on the Premier League talent is a blow for the Magpies. He is a player who could have added a direct threat on the right-hand side. However, adding Coman to the squad could certainly have a similar impact, and he can be a “menace” for opponents, as Statman Dave said.

The package of £34m Bayern are asking for does not seem too outlandish for a player still pursuing the goods on the pitch, as the stats show, and bringing with him bags of experience.

He's Gordon 2.0: Newcastle eyeing £43m "magician" after Mbeumo rejection

Newcastle are looking to make a series of signings this summer.

1

By
Angus Sinclair

Jun 4, 2025

Chelsea want to wrap up even more summer deals in time for their Club World Cup campaign, but BlueCo have just five more days to do so.

Chelsea sign Liam Delap for £30 million with more signings anticipated

On Wednesday, the Blues officially announced their signing of Liam Delap from Ipswich Town, who joins in a £30 million deal after Chelsea triggered his release clause.

Chelsea make "official offer" to sign "promising" striker after 20-goal season

The west Londoners are the first club to submit a bid.

By
Emilio Galantini

Jun 5, 2025

Delap will wear the number 9 shirt at Stamford Bridge and is also eligible to take part in the CWC later this month, giving Enzo Maresca a boost as Chelsea take FIFA’s competition pretty seriously.

£97 million worth of prize money is up for grabs if Chelsea go on to win the tournament, so it is believed that the west Londoners want to add one or two more signings to the squad after Delap as they look to take advantage of this mini-window, which is open until June 10.

Chelsea recently opened talks with AC Milan over a deal for goalkeeper Mike Maignan as well, but as things stand, there is a massive gap in valuation between the two clubs, even if the Frenchman has reportedly approved a switch to the Premier League, as per Football Italia.

After missing out on defender Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid, Chelsea remain in the market for alternatives, with versatile Ajax sensation Jorrel Hato said to be high on their agenda.

Jorrel Hato keen to join Chelsea with talks ongoing

The Netherlands international was predominantly a left-back under Francesco Farioli, impressing in that position, but the natural centre-half could also fill in at the heart of Maresca’s backline.

Signing an alternative to Marc Cucurella and an extra body in the middle, all in one go, will undoubtedly appeal to the west Londoners, amid reports that Hato could leave Ajax for just £40 million.

Journalist Simon Phillips, sharing an update on their links to the Dutchman, says that Chelsea are pushing in talks to sign Hato, ideally before the Club World Cup, and the 19-year-old is equally keen on joining.

“Chelsea are in talks to sign Jorrel Hato from Ajax and are working on the fee at the moment,” said Phillips.

“Personal terms not an issue and Hato is interested in the move. New talks were held early this week.

“I don’t have any further details yet on this one but it’s going on behind the scenes and Chelsea are pushing to get him to the Club World Cup if they can.”

No Ajax player featured over more Eredivisie minutes than Hato last season, with ex-Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson previously suggesting the sky is the limit for his career.

“It’s crazy how young he is, but obviously how mature he looks when he’s on the pitch and also off the pitch,” said Henderson about Hato in 2024.

“He’s a very mature person, works hard, fantastic player, and yeah, he has a bright future ahead of him, I’m sure. I think he just needs to continue to do what he’s he’s been doing.”

Amid rumours that they’ve joined the race to sign Hugo Ekitike, Manchester United are now reportedly considering a summer swoop to sign another Bundesliga star for Ruben Amorim.

Man Utd join Ekitike race

Despite finishing as low as 15th in the Premier League and missing out on European qualification, Manchester United have still managed to put themselves in interesting conversations this summer. The Manchester United name seemingly still carries strong and has already convinced Matheus Cunha to arrive from Wolverhampton Wanderers. But INEOS are not done there.

According to recent reports, the Red Devils have now joined the race to sign Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer. The German club value their forward at a hefty £84m but that has not been enough to deter those at Old Trafford from making their approach in an attempt to beat rivals Liverpool to a summer deal.

It’s easy to see why Manchester United are interested in Ekitike. The Frenchman outscored Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee combined last season and whilst his underperformance when it comes to XG may be a concern, there’s no denying that he’d be an instant upgrade on Amorim’s current options.

Of course, it’s at Old Trafford that Ekitike could form an impressive partnership with Cunha. The Brazilian was officially unveiled as a Manchester United player earlier this week and told the club’s media channels: “It is the most common phrase that you can say at this moment, but this is the dream come true. Maybe outside, I think maybe my decision, they don’t understand. But when you have always dreamed to play here, it’s easier to pick this decision.”

"World-class" £150,000-a-week World Cup winner wants to join Man Utd

He would be an upgrade on a current player.

By
Henry Jackson

Jun 13, 2025

After Cunha and perhaps even after Ekitike, however, INEOS could still be on the hunt for fresh faces, which could yet include a Bayern Munich defender.

Man Utd considering Kim Min-jae move

According to Bild reporter Christian Falk, Manchester United are now considering a move to sign Kim Min-jae from Bayern Munich this summer. The defender is set to fall down the pecking order in Germany following the arrival of Jonathan Tah and could, therefore, be on the move in the coming months.

Falk told Caught Offside: “No decision has yet been made on Kim Min-jae’s future. There have also been no negotiations with the player’s side. But, there is interest from Saudi Arabia. Kim has not ruled it out.

“However, we are still waiting to see whether Liverpool and Manchester United become concrete. There are also rumours that the two Premier League clubs are interested. The fact is: FC Bayern can imagine a sale. However, there is still no offer for the defender.”

Dubbed a “technical leader” by former Manchester United midfielder Park Ji-sung, Min-jae could solve Amorim’s defensive problems once and for all by completing a summer move to revive his career following Bayern frustration.

Having initially cost the Bavarians around €50m (£43m) in 2023, however, there will be big questions as to how much they will demand to sell their centre-back this summer.