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Sunderland completed their sixth signing of the summer transfer window earlier this week when they confirmed the arrival of Simon Adingra from Premier League rivals Brighton & Hove Albion.

The Black Cats have signed Adingra, Chemsdine Talbi, Noah Sadiki, Habib Diallo, Enzo Le Fee, and Reinildo to bolster Regis Le Bris’ options across the park.

Sunderland have only added Reinildo to their defensive ranks, though, and could look to improve their back four in the coming weeks before the end of the window.

It had been reported in June that the club were considering a permanent deal for Chris Mepham, who spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan from Bournemouth, but there has not been an update on the situation since then.

Sunderland plotting deal for Ligue 1 star

The Black Cats appear to be looking at alternative options to the Wales international in that area of the pitch, though, as they are reportedly keen on another right-sided centre-back.

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 Football Insider, Sunderland are interested in signing Toulouse central defender Charlie Cresswell to bolster their team this summer.

The report claims that the Premier League new boys are ‘plotting’ a deal to bring the England U21 international to the Stadium of Light in the coming weeks.

Speaking to Football Insider, scout Mick Brown added: “Sunderland have been looking at Charlie Cresswell. They had scouts at the Under-21 Euros and from what I hear they were impressed by what they saw.”

The Sun have previously claimed that it will take a fee of £18m to tempt Toulouse into cashing in on the former Leeds man, who would be an upgrade on Mepham for Sunderland.

Why Sunderland should sign Charlie Cresswell

Le Bris should push the club to strike a deal for the 22-year-old colossus, who won the U21 Euros with England this summer, because he would add defensive quality to the squad.

Cresswell caught the eye with his impressive performances at the Euros, winning 67% of his duels across six appearances, but he also showcased his ability in Ligue 1 for Toulouse.

The English star showed that he can deliver brilliant defensive displays on a regular basis in a major European league, which is something Mepham, who played 38 times in the Championship last term, has failed to do.

Appearances

31

10

Goals

3

0

Tackles + interceptions per game

2.0

1.9

Clearances per game

6.1

2.9

Duels won per game

4.9

4.3

Ground duel success rate

51%

37%

Aerial duel success rate

66%

60%

As you can see in the table above, Cresswell’s showings in Ligue 1 were significantly more impressive than Mepham’s were when he last played in the Premier League with Bournemouth.

These statistics suggest that the former Leeds man would come in as an immediate upgrade on what the Welshman could have offered in the top-flight, as he is more dominant defensively and offers a greater threat from set plays.

The Toulouse star, who was once hailed as “incredible” during his loan spell at Millwall by talent scout Jacek Kulig, is also five years younger than Mepham, which means that he also has more long-term potential as a young player with time left ahead of him to develop and improve.

Therefore, Cresswell could be a significantly better signing for Sunderland than Mepham due to both his quality in the here and now, as well as his potential to get better in the future.

Adingra & Lauriente's dream CF: Sunderland have big interest in £21m "icon"

Sunderland are still in the race to sign this exciting attacker who could well be Armand Lauriente and Simon Adingra’s dream partner up top.

ByKelan Sarson Jul 9, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have their sights set on clinching more silverware in 2025/26, with Thomas Frank replacing Ange Postecoglou in the dugout after the latter won the Europa League.

Of course, that doesn’t paint the full picture by half: Postecoglou’s chaotic tactics led to his demise, for his Spurs side finished 17th in the Premier League and endured miserable fortunes throughout the campaign.

However, Tottenham exhibited incredible resilience and togetherness to pick themselves up from the wayside and end 17 years of barrenness on the trophy front.

The players did so well, and so did Ange, who has departed a hero, immortalised in the club’s sweeping history.

And with a place in next year’s Champions League secured, Tottenham must now accelerate their summer transfer plans and bring in some impactful additions to kickstart the Frank era.

The latest on Spurs' search for wingers

Tottenham were left bruised after Bryan Mbeumo intimated that he would only leave Brentford this summer to sign for Manchester United, ignoring intrigue from Spurs and Newcastle United, both of whom will play in the Champions League; the Red Devils will not.

Now, fears are rising concerning West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus too. The Ghanaian winger has been the subject of a rejected £55m bid from Spurs but is now of increasing interest to Chelsea.

Frank clearly wants to strengthen his attacking ranks with athletic and potent wingers capable of dynamising his frontline.

If Tottenham fail to sign Mbeumo (which certainly seems the case), Frank will still expect to see a goalscoring winger added to his ranks, easing the goalscoring workload of Dominic Solanke in the middle.

And Daniel Levy may well have found a shrewd solution.

Spurs learn conditions for new winger

According to Football Insider, Tottenham have been informed by Celtic that they will have to pay something in the region of £25m if they wish to sign Daizen Maeda this summer.

The free-scoring Japan forward is one of the dominant Scottish champions’ prized assets, and with Brentford, West Ham and Fenerbahce overseas all interested too, there’s every chance the valuation will balloon over the coming weeks.

Celtic’s stance might appear absolute, but there is a gulf in finances between the English and Scottish footballing border, and given Frank needs such a profile in north London, there’s every chance an affordable deal could be struck.

What Daizen Maeda would bring to Spurs

While Maeda is principally a left-sided forward, Heung-min Son’s future at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is in the air, and thus, he could be the perfect addition given that Timo Werner has departed after his two-year loan spell.

It was Postecoglou who signed Maeda on loan from Yokohama F Marinos back in January 2022, before the transfer was made permanent that summer.

While he’s perhaps struggled for consistency at times in Scotland, who could argue against the 27-year-old’s prolific ability after the recent season? Indeed, Maeda scored 33 goals and provided 12 assists for his teammates across 51 outings.

His goalscoring aptitude suggests Frank could fashion him into his new version of Mbeumo.

Matches (starts)

34 (30)

38 (38)

Goals

16

20

Assists

10

7

Shots (on target)*

1.7 (0.8)

2.2 (1.1)

Big chances missed

17

9

Pass completion

82%

74%

Big chances created

10

17

Key passes*

1.3

1.8

Dribbles*

0.7

1.4

Ball recoveries*

2.1

4.1

Tackles + interceptions*

1.7

1.7

Duels won*

3.1

4.7

As we can tell from the data above, Maeda isn’t quite on the level of Mbeumo, for the Cameroonian forward is so complete in his performances, blending everything together to become “unplayable” when on his A-game, as has been said in the past by Frank.

However, Maeda’s certainly no joke, with Celtic’s dominance in the Scottish Premiership perhaps precluding the usage of his athletic attributes that he does possess. Indeed, his former coach at Yokohama F Marinos, John Hutchinson, has described him as a “physical beast”.

Furthermore, Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has claimed that the Japan international is one of the best pace-setters on the globe, doubting that “there’s anyone better in world football” at leading the charge and dictating tempo.

With such machine-like stamina, you’d think he might even be tailor-made for a role in a Frank system, emulating Mbeumo and maybe seeing his game go from strength to strength as he adapts to the rigorous nature of the Premier League, something that seems well within his powers.

He’s also proven his capacity to succeed on the biggest stage, scoring for the Hoops against Bayern Munich in last year’s Champions League group phase.

If Maeda wishes to reach his full potential, you’d think he might want to pursue a career in the Premier League, where he could dovetail right into a new Tottenham set-up which promises so much: stability, fluency, dynamism.

Mbeumo has reaped the rewards of plying his trade for the Lilywhites’ Danish manager, only outscored in the English top flight last term by Mohamed Salah, Erling Haaland and Alexander Isak.

You can see why Spurs are so keen on securing the right-sided forward’s signature. Saying that, given that Brentford are in for Maeda, one could surmise that the Bees are also keen on bagging themselves a similar profile to their soon-to-depart talisman, thus strengthening Tottenham’s case to forge ahead with a move.

Described as an “absolute nuisance” of a forward by pundit Rio Ferdinand, Maeda has all the tools to succeed in the Premier League, and for just £25m, Tottenham could hit the jackpot by reeling him in.

Dele 2.0: Spurs open talks to re-sign the Championship's "best full-back"

Tottenham are looking to make some shrewd signings ahead of the 2025/26 season.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 4, 2025

Having already welcomed Carlton Morris from Luton Town, Derby County are now reportedly in talks to sign an experienced winger at a bargain price this summer.

Derby sign Carlton Morris

Leaving relegated Luton in favour of a move to Pride Park, Morris became the first signing of the summer at Derby earlier this week and will be hoping to ensure that they, unlike The Hatters, push beyond the Championship’s dropzone next season. At 29 years old, he’s now a player with plenty of experience and his versatility to play all across the frontline could prove pivotal for John Eustace.

After putting pen to paper, Morris told Derby’s official website: “It’s a massive club that I’ve heard a lot of good things about. When they came in for me, it was a bit of a no-brainer, really.

“[The move is] a big change, especially with my family. You want to know about the football club, about the area, and I’ve heard nothing but good. I’ve heard it’s a great family club, so I’m excited to get going.

“I think I’m entering the prime stage of my career as a striker now. I spoke to Rob Edwards, who has told me how good Keith Downing is and that Matt Gardiner is exceptional to work with as well.

Derby face Blackburn in race to sign midfielder with same agent as Forsyth

Derby County are now in a race with fellow Championship teams to sign a versatile midfielder.

ByBrett Worthington Jun 26, 2025

“They’re only going to make me a better player which is crucial as I’m at a place where I’m probably the most coachable I’ve been in my career and ready to kick on.”

In their second season back in the Championship, Derby are seemingly ready to welcome more experience after Morris this summer and that includes one particular winger. As Eustace’s side aim to push on, they’ve reportedly opened talks in pursuit of a bargain deal.

Derby open talks to sign John Swift

As reported by Birmingham World, Derby are now in talks to sign John Swift alongside three other EFL clubs. The former West Bromwich Albion winger is now a free agent after leaving the Hawthorns and is believed to have already met with two managers regarding his future, one of them being Eustace.

Whilst he endured a mixed spell for the Baggies, Swift’s experience may prove invaluable for a side in Derby’s position. Meanwhile, at his best, Swift is someone who has often found himself at the centre of impressive praise.

That includes from former West Brom manager Tony Mowbray last season, who told reporters after Swift scored a free-kick against Burnley last season: “John Swift’s free-kick was a fantastic goal. He’s a wonderful player and he’s very talented. Certain games need certain types of players to give us the best chance to win.”

With three other EFL sides interested, there’s no doubt that signing Swift would represent an impressive coup for Derby, who have already made a statement by signing Luton’s Morris this summer.

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers will be “pushing” the Hoops to complete the signing of an attacking “superstar” this summer, according to former scout Mick Brown.

Players Celtic could sign this summer

New signings are needed for the Hoops, in order to be ruthless and continue winning Scottish Premiership titles, as well as improve their performances in the Champions League.

Plenty of players continue to be linked with summer moves to Celtic, with West Ham midfielder Andy Irving reportedly among their list of targets. He was limited to only one start and 10 appearances in the Premier League last season, so a new challenge may make sense for him.

Meanwhile, Sondre Orjasaeter has also been mentioned as an option for the Hoops, having registered 17 goal contributions in 41 matches for Sarpsborg 08.

Kawasaki Frontale attacker Shin Yamada is the latest Japanese player to be linked with a switch to Celtic, with the 25-year-old potentially seen as a strong choice to bolster Rodgers’ attack. It looks like someone else is on the mind of the Hoops boss, though.

Celtic boss Rodgers "pushing" to sign "superstar" Ferguson

Speaking to Football Insider, Brown claimed that Celtic want to complete the signing of Brighton striker Evan Ferguson this summer, with Rodgers “pushing” to get a deal over the line.

“Celtic can offer attractive opportunities to players like Ferguson. They’re going to be playing in the Champions League and competing for trophies, which would be valuable experience for a player of his age. He’d come in as their first-choice striker as well, he might not be guaranteed that elsewhere. Especially in the Premier League where he’s proved he struggles to hold down a starting place. He struggled on loan at West Ham last year and now he needs to put down a marker and show he can be the player everybody thinks he can be.

“For a team like Everton or Forest, he would still have a lot to offer. But he could go to Celtic as the main man up front, away from the pressure that comes with the Premier League, and prove what he can do. I think Brendan Rodgers will be pushing to get that done, he wants to be ambitious in the market. He expects to be backed and this would be a statement of intent, even if it’s on a loan deal.”

Ferguson’s stock has fallen over the past 12 months or so, having been seen as an incredible talent who was linked with Manchester United at one point, being described as a future “superstar” by Micah Richards.

That’s not to say that the Republic of Ireland international couldn’t be a great signing for Celtic, though, despite struggling on loan at West Ham, and he is still only 20 years of age.

He'd be amazing with Hatate: Celtic now eyeing "Premier League-level" star

Celtic could find an amazing midfield partner for Reo Hatate by signing this star.

ByDan Emery Jun 23, 2025

As Brown says, it would be a statement piece of business by the Hoops, even if it’s a season-long loan move to Parkhead, with Ferguson possessing the ability to thrive in the Scottish game, scoring goals for fun.

Manchester United have been known for big sales over the years, often making big-money on players, which has led to their own heavy spending in the transfer market.

Cristiano Ronaldo remains their record sale to this day, after the Portuguese sensation departing in a £80m deal to join Real Madrid way back in the summer of 2009.

Romelu Lukaku and Ángel Di María both also departed Old Trafford for fees over £50m, with the club not afraid to offload stars, even if it resulted in a loss on the money paid for their signatures.

This summer could see multiple other stars depart the Theatre of Dreams, as Ruben Amorim looks to offload options to allow for funds to make the desired impact in 2025/26.

Numerous stars have already been touted with a switch during the off-season, with one player set to follow in the footsteps of another former star in the coming months.

The latest on players who could leave United this summer

Rasmus Hojlund has failed to deliver at United this season, only scoring four league goals – even going 21 games without a goal at one stage, highlighting his lack of impact.

He’s already been of interest from Italian sides Napoli and Inter Milan, with the Red Devils looking to recruit as much of the £72m fee forked out for his signature two years ago.

However, he could be joined out the door by winger Antony, who looks almost certain to leave the club this summer, according to one Spanish outlet’s latest report.

They claim that Jason Wilcox has already entered talks with Spanish side Real Betis over a deal for the Brazilian, who registered nine goals and five assists on loan with the same outfit last season.

It also states that Amorim’s side are demanding a fee in the region of £50m to part ways with the 25-year-old this summer, but the Spanish side are only prepared to offer around £30m.

Why United’s £50m star could be their next Elanga

Attacker Anthony Elanga joined United at the age of 12, rising through the youth ranks at Old Trafford, before making an impact in the first-team back in 2021.

The Swede managed to score against Atlético Madrid in the Champions League, a moment that was undoubtedly the highlight of his time as a Red Devil.

However, he would leave in a £15m deal to join Nottingham Forest back in the summer of 2023, a deal that has since proved to be a huge mistake, with the forward taking his career to the next level since.

The 23-year-old has registered 32 combined goals and assists across all competitions in the last two seasons, including a tremendous solo effort against Amorim’s side back in April.

As a result, he’s been the subject of a £50m bid from Newcastle United, showcasing the rise he’s enjoyed since leaving United – with the club undoubtedly selling him for a bargain.

They must regret such a deal, something which could happen once again this summer, with Antony set to follow in his footsteps by succeeding away from the club next campaign.

The Brazilian, who’s been labelled “unbelievable” by content creator Angry Ginge, has already demonstrated his quality away from United this campaign – showcasing he still has the tools to be a success at the club.

Games played

17

Goals & assists

7

Pass accuracy

84%

Shots taken

2.8

Shots on target

1.2

Chances created

2.4

Successful dribbles

1.6

His underlying figures from his time in Spain showcase his talents, creating 2.4 chances per 90 and completing 1.6 dribbles per 90, highlighting the threat he carries with the ball at his feet.

Antony has also managed 2.8 shots per 90 along with 1.2 shots on target per 90, having the end product that United have often lacked – as seen by Hojlund’s unthinkable goal drought.

Whilst his time at Old Trafford has undoubtedly been a disappointing one given his £86m transfer fee, he still has the potential to shine at the club, as seen by his recent run away from the Theatre of Dreams.

It’s highly unlikely that his £50m asking price will be met this summer, which could prove to be a blessing in disguise, with the club potentially regretting his departure, and having the chance to replicate Elanga in the process.

The new Martial: Wilcox ramping up move to sign "next Mbappe" for Man Utd

Man United are pressing to bring in a centre-forward with shades of Anthony Martial.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 16, 2025

Manchester United have already wasted no time in the transfer market, already making huge additions to the first-team squad, after the window opened on Sunday.

Matheus Cunha has already been confirmed as a Red Devils player, costing £62.5m from Wolverhampton Wanderers, looking to hand Ruben Amorim a new option in attacking areas.

However, after the club finished 15th in the Premier League this season, it’s evident that more changes are needed to prevent such a situation from reoccurring in the future.

It presents the manager with the perfect chance to overhaul the squad and recruit players he wants to fit the 3-4-2-1 system after taking the reins back in November.

Hefty funds are likely to be spent this summer to try and right the wrongs of 2024/25, with countless names continuously being linked with a switch to Old Trafford during the off-season.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

All areas of the United team have been subject to improvements during the ongoing window, with various names from all over the world touted for moves to join Amorim’s side.

Ronald Araujo, Ederson and Gonçalo Ramos have all been mentioned as potential summer targets, but no deals have been completed for any of the trio as of yet.

However, progress appears to have been made on a deal to sign Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo after the Cameroonian confirmed he wanted to join the club earlier this week.

Man United Sources’ latest update confirms that an agreement for personal terms is edging closer, with the club and player set to agree on a £175k-per-week contract.

It’s been reported elsewhere that the Bees are demanding a package in the region of £70m to part ways with the 25-year-old, who’s scored 20 league goals this season.

Why United’s £70m target could be Amorim’s next Amad

Amad Diallo is a player who has taken his career to the next level at United this season, cementing himself as a key player within Amorim’s system at Old Trafford.

The Ivorian was given a chance to star by the 40-year-old after previously being handed limited opportunities by former boss Erik ten Hag – something which he’s taken full advantage of.

The 22-year-old has registered 11 goals and eight assists across all competitions, with eight of his efforts coming in the Premier League – making him the joint-top scorer along with Bruno Fernandes.

Amad can operate in a wing-back or attacking midfield role, often liking to cut inside onto his favoured left foot and get shots off, which has led to his impressive numbers in 2024/25.

Mbeumo could replicate such success at Old Trafford, given the fact he plays in a similar position and has also been known to cut inside off the right at Brentford.

His underlying stats in the Premier League this campaign are just as impressive, managing to better Amad in various key areas, which will inject added quality into the manager’s side.

The Bees star, who’s been labelled a “monster” by one analyst, has registered more combined goals and assists, along with a higher shot on target accuracy rate – handing the manager an added threat in front of goal.

Games played

38

26

Goals & assists

27

14

Shot-on-target accuracy

43%

36%

Progressive passes

3.7

2.8

Passes into final third

1.7

1.2

% of tackles won

60%

59%

Clearances made

1.5

0.9

Take-on success

47%

46%

He’s also managed to complete more progressive passes and more passes into the final third, allowing the players ahead of him to improve their own tallies as a result.

Mbeumo’s dominance doesn’t end there, winning more of the tackles he’s entered, whilst making more clearances – having the tools to star in a right wing-back role if needed.

£70m may seem like another mammoth investment from the board, but it’s one that would massively improve the options available to Amorim in various key areas.

The prospect of the Cameroonian at Old Trafford is certainly an exciting one, potentially being a deadly player in the final third – especially if he manages to follow in Amad’s footsteps in the North West.

Dorgu upgrade: Man Utd make "one of the best LBs in the PL" a top target

Man Utd could look to strengthen their wing-back options this summer

ByRobbie Walls Jun 4, 2025

Glasgow Rangers supporters still do not know who the club’s next head coach is going to be, as Ibrox chiefs continue to run the rule over a number of candidates.

It has been reported by the Daily Mail that Andrew Cavenagh is set for face-to-face talks, alongside Kevin Thelwell and Patrick Stewart at Rangers, with managers, including Davide Ancelotti and Russell Martin.

The same report, though, added that Steven Gerrard, who won the Scottish Premiership with the Gers in the 2020/21 campaign, is still in the running for the job.

Part of what made the English manager’s team at Ibrox so successful was that they were able to successfully recruit domestic talent, including central midfielder Glen Kamara.

Why Glen Kamara was a key signing for Steven Gerrard

The Finland international, who came through the Arsenal academy, made his big breakthrough in senior football with Dundee in the Premiership, playing 64 games in 18 months at Dens Park.

Rangers swooped to sign him for £50k in the January window of 2019, as his deal was due to expire that summer, and it was a move that was later described as the “steal of the century” by Scott Arfield.

His 64 appearances for Dundee meant that Gerrard was bringing in a proven Premiership performer who could hit the ground running in the Premiership as an impact signing, rather than needing time as either a young player or as someone who was not used to Scottish football.

Kamara went on to play 193 games for Rangers, scoring nine goals and providing 11 assists, before being sold to Leeds United for £5m in 2023.

He was a key signing for Gerrard, though, because his ability to hit the ground running allowed him to be a star from the get-go, and he went on to play a significant role in the title-winning side, starting 28 of the 38 league games and completing 91% of his attempted passes.

Rangers, and potentially Gerrard if he gets the job for a second time, could repeat that masterclass by swooping for another Dundee star this summer.

Rangers have held talks to sign Dundee star

According to Daily Record reporter Scott Burns, Rangers have held talks over a deal to sign Dundee right wing-back Josh Mulligan, who is out of contract, in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The report claims that the Light Blues have explored a move to land the 22-year-old ace, although they face competition from Charlton Athletic, but have put talks on hold for now until their managerial pursuit comes to an end.

Whilst talks are on hold for the defender, who was dubbed a future Scotland international by Kai Watson, the club should look to pursue this further as soon as possible because he could be Glen Kamara 2.0.

Why Josh Mulligan could be Glen Kamara 2.0

The versatile Scottish ace, who can play as a wing-back or as a central midfielder, as outlined by Watson, could be a repeat of the masterclass that Gerrard played with Kamara because he is a proven Premiership performer with time ahead of him to develop and improve.

Mulligan, who was described as a “Rolls-Royce” and as a “powerful” player by Simon Ferry, is only 22 but has already racked up 122 appearances for Dundee, 63 of which have come in the Premiership.

Appearances

34

Big chances created

9

Assists

5

Tackles + interceptions per game

2.5

Duels won per game

5.2

Error led to shot

0

Error led to goal

0

As you can see in the table above, the young defender offered solid defensive work, with zero errors that directly led to shots or goals, whilst also providing a creative outlet down the right flank.

These statistics show that Mulligan is a solid and reliable Premiership performer, despite his young age, in both his work in and out of possession, as he can step in to make vital tackles and interceptions without making many mistakes, and has an impact in the final third.

This means that the Ranger transfer target could follow in Kamara’s footsteps as a proven Premiership star coming to Ibrox directly from Dundee to hit the ground running in Glasgow.

Mulligan could make an instant impact on the pitch for the next manager, given his performances for Dundee in the division this season, and that is why he could be an excellent, and bargain on a free transfer, addition to the squad.

Ryan Kent 2.0: Rangers in strong position to sign "outstanding" star

Rangers are in a strong position to sign a star who could be their next Ryan Kent.

ByDan Emery May 28, 2025

Liverpool have won back the Premier League from Manchester City, five years after they last stoop atop the mountainous English pyramid.

Pep Guardiola’s side have broken records to win four in a row since Jurgen Klopp put Liverpool back on their perch, but City have fallen by the wayside this season and Arsenal have never managed to build the requisite consistency to end their recent runner-up reputation.

But consistency has been Arne Slot’s middle name this year, his first since replacing Klopp in the Anfield dugout and putting the Reds back in the ascendency.

It bears testament to FSG’s business model that already sporting director Richard Hughes is liaising with Michel Edwards ahead of the summer transfer window, with signings needed in defence and attack to protect this exciting new position at the summit.

Ryan Gravenberch, a revelation

Gravenberch is a Premier League-winning midfielder. The Dutchman has started every single match as Liverpool have capered toward the title, deeply set in the midfield soil, no way of being uprooted.

Who saw it coming? Many of a Liverpool persuasion will no doubt admit they had reservations after a stop-start 2023/24 campaign, his first in England after Klopp completed his midfield rebuild by signing the Bayern Munich prospect for a £34m fee at the end of the 2023 summer transfer window.

The Netherlands international, 22, has recently spoken of the adversity he has had to overcome after playing so infrequently last year, and while he’s looked a little sapped at times recently, Gravenberch has been “first-class all season” in the eyes of pundit Peter Crouch.

Matches (starts)

26 (12)

34 (34)

Goals

1

0

Assists

0

4

Touches*

28.8

67.3

Pass completion

83%

89%

Key passes*

0.6

0.7

Dribbles*

0.9

1.0

Ball recoveries*

2.8

5.3

Tackles + interceptions*

1.5

3.6

Duels (won)*

2.8 (47%)

5.0 (58%)

He’s effectively improved across every metric, turning from a meandering midfield prospect into a deep-lying general of surpassing quality.

However, Gravenberch has indeed alluded to the fact that he’s been overworked, and it’s something Slot and Hughes have considered, for Liverpool seem to be getting ready to sign a midfield rival this summer.

Liverpool ready to sign Premier League midfielder

According to reports, via Caught Offside, Liverpool are interested in signing FA Cup hero Adam Wharton this summer and are preparing to lodge a £50m offer in the coming months.

Wharton, 21, has been a revelation at Crystal Palace and is not going to be short of suitors, with Arsenal and Manchester United also reported to be keen on doing a deal.

Though Liverpool’s title-winning midfield is probably the area of the pitch least in need of external assistance, Wharton might prove to complete the puzzle and maybe even leave Gravenberch sweating over the security of his starting berth.

Why Adam Wharton would be perfect for Liverpool

Crystal Palace produced a consummate performance against Aston Villa last weekend to set their place in next month’s FA Cup final. Wharton was among the standouts, with BBC pundit Shay Given even likening him to a rather well-respected midfielder of old.

Centre-midfielder Wharton left Blackburn Rovers in the Championship to sign for the Eagles for an initial £18m fee, leaving the club that had reared him.

He’s not going to have looked back, striking from the get-go a reputation for his slick passing and composed stride in the centre of the park.

His renown has burgeoned over the past 15 months, reaching its apotheosis (so far) after dismantling a Villa side at Wembley to move within touching distance of a first major trophy in Palace’s long history.

As per FBref, Wharton ranks among the top 5% of Premier League midfielders this season for progressive passes, the top 9% for ball recoveries and the top 15% for shot-creating actions made per 90, perfectly illustrating his elite passing game, crisp as you like while being creative too. He’s also a thoroughbred athlete, covering so much ground.

It’s a similar profile to that of Gravenberch. Although the argument that he’s performing such metrics to a lesser standard is there. It’s recorded that the Dutchman ranks among the top 31% of said midfielders for progressive passes, but also among the bottom 36% for shot-creating actions per 90.

Given that both players operate in positionally similar zones, it’s easy to ascertain that Wharton is the better man in distribution. Moreover, he doesn’t shirk from his defensive duties either, winning 1.8 tackles per Premier League game this season, as per Sofascore.

There’s nothing to say that these two players couldn’t work in conjunction within Slot’s Liverpool set-up, but there’s little question that Gravenberch lacks the natural-born seamlessness in possession. Not to say it’s a tactical deficiency of his, but rather, a glowing endorsement of Wharton’s talent.

The fact is, Gravenberch has lulled, and while he has areas that eclipse that of Palace’s man, the semblance between the two, which still manages to contrast and show off distinctive qualities, suggests that Liverpool would hit the jackpot in forging ahead with a deal for Selhurst Park’s midfield star.

Slot’s finely-wrought system hasn’t seen too much tinkering this term, but Wharton would be able to ply his work effectively at number six, fitting in for Gravenberch and given the opportunity to make the role his own.

He’s demonstrated his capacity on the big occasion, with esteemed journalist Henry Winter describing Wharton as a “passing machine” and the “best player on the pitch” during the FA Cup semi-final.

You could even make the strong claim that the one-cap England international has the superior ball-playing game to Gravenberch and may well be a more fitting number six in Slot’s flowing system.

In any case, having both in the mix would hardly be a bad thing; indeed, this is exactly the type of move that Liverpool need to make so as to consolidate their position at the top of the Premier League.

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ByDan Emery Apr 26, 2025

Manchester United’s dismal season in the Premier League continued to hit new lows after a 1-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Vitor Pereira’s side, who have been battling relegation all season, are now level on points with the Red Devils on 58 points, only behind them on goal difference.

A stunning free-kick from Pablo Sarabia was the difference between the two sides in Manchester, as a moment of quality decided the match in a stadium where that has often been the case for the home team in the Premier League era.

A lack of quality sums up where United are at this moment in time – sat 14th in the league table – and their selection of strikers is a damning indictment on the recruitment work done behind the scenes in recent years.

Rasmus Hojlund, signed from Atalanta in a £72m deal in 2023, started against Wolves and failed to score, which means that he has scored three goals in 28 Premier League matches.

Joshua Zirkzee was unavailable and is set to miss the remainder of the season due to a hamstring injury, but he has rarely provided the quality that United need in the final third.

Why Man Utd could move on from Joshua Zirkzee

The Red Devils reportedly paid a fee of £36.5m to sign the Netherlands international from Serie A side Bologna last summer to compete with Hojlund for a spot in the starting line-up.

Unfortunately, neither of them have performed well enough to nail down the position of Manchester United’s first-choice number nine, instead taking turns at struggling at the top end of the pitch in the Premier League.

Zirkzee has started 14 of his 32 appearances in the division, which shows that he has failed to perform well enough to be a consistent starter, and scored three goals from 4.82 xG in that time.

Non-penalty xG

0.31

Bottom 36%

Non-penalty goals

0.19

Bottom 16%

Shots

1.89

Bottom 9%

Assists

0.06

Bottom 19%

Expected Assisted Goals

0.10

Bottom 41%

Shot-creating actions

1.99

Bottom 31%

As you can see in the table above, the Dutch centre-forward ranks incredibly lowly among strikers in the Premier League in a host of key goalscoring metrics.

These statistics show that Zirkzee does not get into high-quality goalscoring positions on a regular basis and that he fails to make the most of his opportunities when they do come his way.

The former Bayern Munich gem turns 24 next month, almost two years older than Hojlund, and could be moved on this summer to make room for a new striker. He cost more than £30m less than the Danish prospect, which could make it more appealing to sell to limit any losses on their initial outlay.

Man Utd reach agreement with £30m striker

According to Africa Foot, as relayed by TEAMtalk, Manchester United have already reached an agreement with Victor Osimhen and his representatives ahead of a possible transfer.

The report claims that the Red Devils have struck a deal with the Nigeria international ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, as they look to bolster their options at the top end of the pitch.

It reveals that Osimhen wants to move to the Premier League to take the next step in his career, and he has now given the green light to a transfer to Old Trafford.

The outlet adds that a permanent exit from Napoli is on the cards for the striker this summer, despite his contract not ending until 2026, and that a fee of up to £30m could be enough to secure his services.

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

Whilst an agreement may have been reached with Osimhen and his representatives, Manchester United still need to agree a deal with the Italian club to ensure that the forward is part of Ruben Amorim’s squad for the 2025/26 campaign.

The agreement with the player does suggest that they are closing in on the Galatasaray loanee, though, and that may not be good news for Zirkzee and his future in Manchester.

Why Manchester United should sign Victor Osimhen

The Red Devils must continue on their path to signing Osimhen from Napoli this summer because he could come in to solve the problems that they have had in the striker position this season.

The 26-year-old marksman is a prolific and reliable goalscorer who has proven his quality at the top end of the pitch in recent seasons, in Italy, France, and Turkey, whilst the United front two have struggled throughout the 2024/25 campaign in the Premier League.

24/25

Galatasaray

33

29

23/24

Napoli

32

17

22/23

Napoli

39

31

21/22

Napoli

32

18

20/21

Napoli

30

10

19/20

Lille

35

17

As you can see in the table above, Osimhen has scored 17 goals or more in five of the last six seasons for Lille, Napoli, and Galatasaray, with a staggering 29 goals in 33 matches in the current campaign.

The Napoli forward, who was once described as a “monster” by analyst Ben Mattinson, was particularly impressive in the 2022/23 Serie A season, scoring 26 goals to guide his side to the title.

Zirkzee, meanwhile, has only scored seven goals in 48 matches in all competitions in his debut year in England, which would be Osimhen’s lowest tally in any of his last six years.

This suggests that Osimhen, who currently ranks within the top 1% of forwards in the Men’s Big 5 Leagues and European competitions for non-penalty xG per 90 (0.98), would come in as a significant upgrade on both Zirkzee and Hojlund due to his ability to consistently and reliably find the back of the net, adapting to new countries and leagues with ease.

In terms of what that would mean for the current United strikers, Zirkzee being older and less expensive than Hojlund could result in him being the one to be sent packing to make room for the Nigerian striker ahead of next season.

Therefore, the news that United have reached an agreement with Osimhen should come as bad news to the Dutch attacker, whose days at Old Trafford may already be numbered.

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It is now down to the board to ensure that they can reach an agreement with Napoli, whether that is for a fee of £30m or not, to bolster Amorim’s attacking options.

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.

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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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.