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According to a report by RMC Sport, West Ham have been linked with a loan move for Paris Saint-Germain defender Abdou Diallo.

The Lowdown: Centre-back crisis

The Hammers have suffered from a variety of defensive injuries this season, and it is those affecting the centre-backs which have hit the hardest.

Centre-half pairing Angelo Ogbonna and Kurt Zouma are currently out of action, leaving Craig Dawson and Issa Diop as the only senior defenders available for David Moyes to play centrally.

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Whilst Zouma is set to return in the next week or so, Ogbonna suffered a serious cruciate ligament rupture in early November which is expected to keep him out until after the end of this season.

As a result, the Irons have been on the hunt for centre-back options as they search for greater depth in that position.

The Latest: Hammers linked with Abdou Diallo loan

According to a report by RMC Sport (as relayed by Claret & Hugh), West Ham have been linked with a loan move for PSG centre-back Diallo.

The Hammers are reportedly interested in bringing in the 25-year-old on loan, as the French giants are looking to offload a number of fringe players.

The two clubs are yet to discuss a deal, but with the Irons looking to bring in a central defender, it would not be surprising to see the east London club exploring a multitude of avenues.

The Verdict: Good move for both parties

The Senegal international, who can also be utilised as a left-back, joined PSG as an exciting youngster from Borussia Dortmund in a £28.8m deal in 2019.

Despite being hailed as “strong in the air and shrewd in the challenge” by Rouven Schröder, then-sporting director at his former club Mainz, Diallo has not held down a regular place as a member of PSG’s star-studded line-up, having made just nine appearances in Ligue 1 this season and two in the Champions League.

With his lack of game-time in mind, he could be open to a move to West Ham if he seeks more first team football in preparation for the World Cup later this year.

Therefore, a loan deal could prove to be a good option for both the player and the club. Diallo could use the Hammers as a way of getting back into PSG’s first team plans, and Moyes could utilise the defender when necessary for the remainder of the season without the financial commitment of a permanent deal.

In other news: West Ham could battle La Liga giants for the ‘new Vidic’, came ‘very close’ to a deal in 2021

Many Everton fans have been left fuming as some early team news has emerged ahead of their game against Arsenal in the Premier League on Monday.

Speaking in his pre-game press conference ahead of the match against the Gunners, Rafael Benitez has now revealed that Dominic Calvert-Lewin is ‘still a couple of weeks’ away minimum from recovering from his injury setback, having not played since August.

The striker scored three goals in the first three games of the season prior to the injury (eight matches in the Premier League without a win after their 4-1 drubbing at home by Liverpool in midweek.

Considering such dreadful form, the last thing that Everton supporters wanted to hear was that they will be without the 24-year-old marksman throughout the pre-Christmas period.

Everton fans on Calvert-Lewin news

These Blues fans fumed as the team news involving Calvert-Lewin was shared on Twitter, with one going as far as to claim that it was ‘ridiculous’:

“The never-ending injury. He won’t be fully fit until about March as it will take him 6-8 games to build back up. Ridiculous.”

Credit: @jimefc81

“Every single week it’s the same answer!”

Credit: @karlriley_1997

“Excuses excuses”

Credit: @Grahamb75

“Why only Everton…shameful”

Credit: @Jesudian15

“WEEKS???”

Credit: @sebellis09

“It’s been a couple of weeks for about two months”Credit: @MainManMinaIn other news, find out what Benitez claim has left these Evertonians fuming

An update has emerged on Newcastle’s pursuit of Lyon beast Lucas Paqueta ahead of the January transfer window…

What’s the talk?

According to Le10 Sport, the Magpies have placed a £34m (€40m) bid for the Brazilian gem and are willing to go higher if needed.

The report claims that the midfielder has turned down the chance to sign for them as it stands, but does not rule out an attempt from the Premier League side to change his mind.

He only signed for the French club around 18 months ago in a deal worth £19m.

New era

Newcastle could start their new era under PIF’s ownership with a bang by tempting him to make a U-turn on his decision next month.

The 24-year-old midfielder has been in sensational form for Lyon in France and his arrival could provide a major lift to the squad, both in terms of his ability and what he could bring on the pitch and the PR his move would provide the club.

He is a player who is currently excelling in Ligue 1 and convincing him to join a relegation battle could be a signal of intent that convinces others to make a similar switch.

He has averaged a sublime SofaScore rating of 7.17 for this season, producing six goals and three assists in 16 league matches whilst also making 2.1 tackles per game. This comes after he averaged the same score last term, bagging nine goals and providing five assists in 30 appearances in Ligue 1.

The manager of Brazil – Tite – previously compared him to two other players from his country, saying: “Lucas thinks about football in the same way as Neymar and Coutinho.

“When we played against El Salvador he had a series of exchanges with Neymar, practically without having seen him before and without playing together. They linked up with their eyes closed.”

Milan and Brazil icon Kaka has also been full of praise for Paqueta in the past. He said:

“He’s a player who has a bright future ahead of him. He’s already been called up to the Brazilian national team, but it’s better for him that we don’t make comparisons. I’ve seen so many of them in recent days, with me, with [Alexandre] Pato, with Ronaldinho, Cafu, Rivaldo… with all the Brazilians who have been part of Milan’s history.”

Meanwhile, talent scout Jacek Kulig went as far as to describe him as a “pure joy to watch” earlier this year.

This highlights the pedigree he would arrive with, whilst his statistics for Lyon show that he is putting in the performances to warrant the hype.

Therefore, his arrival could kickstart the PIF era with a bang as he would surely have a huge impact on the pitch with his consistently excellent displays in midfield and he could be the trailblazer in terms of high-profile names making their way to the Toon.

AND in other news, Move over Ashworth: NUFC must consider “irate” DoF whose “behaviour’s been a disgrace”…

A promising update has emerged on Newcastle United centre-back Paul Dummett regarding his current injury situation.

What’s the latest?

According to Lee Ryder of The Chronicle, the defender is poised to make his comeback in December to hand Eddie Howe a boost ahead of the festive period.

He has been missing for the entire season so far with a calf injury but is now just ‘weeks’ away from making his return and being a first team option again.

Fans will be delighted

Newcastle fans will surely be delighted by this update as it will provide Howe with another player to call upon as he attempts to revive the club’s fortunes. The Magpies are currently bottom of the Premier League table and have only six points after 12 matches.

They are five points off safety and are the only team in the division yet to win a game, whilst they have also failed to keep a single clean sheet. They are letting in 2.3 goals per game and Howe needs to change something to improve the defensive setup in order to stem the tide, as needing to score three goals per game on average to win is a tall order for a team currently netting 1.3 per match.

Last season, Dummett averaged a SofaScore rating of 6.76 as he was deployed at centre-back and left-back. He made 4.7 clearances and completed 2.2 tackles and interceptions per game, displaying his defensive qualities as he put in solid performances on a regular basis for Steve Bruce’s side.

In 2021/22, Emil Krafth (6.60), Ciaran Clark (6.64) and Fabian Schar (6.70) have all averaged lower ratings in the Premier League, suggesting that Dummett could potentially be an improvement on some of the current centre-back options. Therefore, his return will surely leave fans delighted, as he could bolster the team and improve their chances of keeping the ball out of their own net.

Hopefully the Welshman will be back in action within the next couple of weeks and be able to play a part in Newcastle’s Premier League matches in December. Keeping within touching distance of safety heading into January could be crucial in landing transfer targets in the next window, and given his statistics last season, Dummett’s return could help with that.

AND in other news, Paid £12m, now worth £4.5m: Newcastle had howler with dud accused of trying to “cheat”…

Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa is reportedly a big admirer of Reading midfielder John Swift, according to The Athletic’s Phil Hay.

What’s the story?

According to the well-respected journalist, the Whites’ enigmatic boss has been keeping close tabs on the 26-year-old for some time ahead of a possible move in the upcoming January transfer window.

“Bielsa has liked Swift for a while,” Hay wrote in a match discussion Q&A on The Athletic. “It’s a difficult question because deep down you question whether Swift improves Leeds long term, but they’re not going to be able to spend big next month, and maybe some pragmatism is a good idea.”

Swift’s current contract at the Madejski Stadium is set to expire next summer, and with the Royals hovering above the Championship relegation zone, an imminent exit could be on the cards.

Leeds fans will be buzzing

The attack-minded midfielder has been linked with several top-flight clubs in recent weeks as he approaches the end of his deal with Reading, and his agent previously addressed the speculation surrounding Swift’s potential move to Leeds.

“There’s been a lot of speculation in the media about different Premiership clubs being interested in John,” he said. “At the moment, his sole focus is on playing for Reading and doing the best he can with them.

“Leeds United is a great club and their style of play, manager, and fans would be good for John moving forward in his career. However, no formal approaches have been made that we are aware of by Leeds to Reading at this stage.”

When taking a closer look at Swift’s credentials, it’s little surprise to see the former England under-21 international edging back towards the Premier League.

Following a 2-1 win over Preston North End back in August, Royals manager Veljko Paunovic called his talisman “super talented”, and it’s hard to argue with the 44-year-old’s assessment.

Since arriving at Reading, Swift has become one of the Championship’s star performers, bagging 31 goals and laying on a further 34 assists in 184 appearances.

He has elevated his game to new heights this term. In 20 outings for Paunovic’s charges, the £25k-per-week dynamo has notched eight goals and provided nine assists, highlighting his top-class potential.

Therefore, a large section of Leeds fans will surely be delighted at Hay’s latest revelation, and Swift could provide the spark needed to fire the Whites to safety.

In other news… “Unbelievable” Leeds star who lost possession 21 times was Bielsa’s weak link v Brighton 

If Thursday night was a trial, then mooted West Ham target Paul Onachu would have hardly passed with flying colours.

In fact, his performance may be enough to put new Irons head of recruitment Rob Newman completely off making a move as the 27-year-old struggled against the east London outfit in the Europa League.

The Hammers dominated Belgian outfit Genk and came out on top with a 3-0 victory at the London Stadium to maintain their 100% record in the competition.

According to the Daily Mail, West Ham are among many clubs interested in a move for the Nigeria international, who is thought to be valued at around £20m.

There is said to be competition from Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton, whilst Borussia Dortmund and Atletico Madrid have also been linked by the report.

Well, luckily for David Moyes and co, they got to witness his credentials firsthand, and on that basis alone, he could struggle to have much of an impact in England as the Irons absolutely silenced him with their two backup central defenders.

Onuachu may have bagged 11 goals in 15 appearances beforehand, providing a total of 56 goals in only 85 games for the Jupiler Pro League outfit, but there is a vast difference in the quality of opposition.

The £19.8m-rated forward, who was once dubbed a “goal king” by former Wimbledon star John Fashanu, looked rather poor against the Irons.

Both Issa Diop and Craig Dawson dealt with his 6 foot 7 stature and usually impressive aerial ability (he has won 3.6 aerial duels per league game this term) with aplomb.

Onuachu was hooked after 73 minutes, having failed to make any sort of impact. As per SofaScore, his two attempts on goal were fired off target, with one of those a particularly weak effort with what was a golden chance for the visitors, whilst the towering striker also won only 50% of his battles in the air and managed just one successful dribble from three attempts.

It’s no secret that Moyes needs another frontline addition to help provide backup to Michail Antonio, who was not even in the squad on Thursday night, but on that midweek showing, the answer may not be the Genk talisman.

Newman must steer West Ham clear of the 27-year-old or else risk making a major transfer blunder.

AND in other news, Moyes handed fresh injury blow to key West Ham star ahead of Spurs…

Leeds United travel to Norfolk on Sunday to face Norwich City in a huge clash at the bottom of the Premier League table.

The Whites came into the weekend 17th in the table and five points clear of the Canaries heading into the match. A defeat would see the gap close to two points and Leeds stuck on one win after 10 league matches.

Marcelo Bielsa’s side were also beaten 2-0 by Arsenal in the Carabao Cup at the Emirates Stadium in their last competitive outing earlier this week.

James hasn’t been good enough

Bielsa must now ruthlessly axe Dan James from the starting XI as he is not good enough to warrant a start in present form.

The Welsh attacker put in a dreadful display against Arsenal in midweek and has not had the best of times since making the switch from Manchester United. He played 70 minutes against the Gunners and was unable to make a positive impact on the game as his end product left plenty to be desired.

As per SofaScore, he lost a whopping six of his seven individual duels (85.7%), missed one big chance and was dribbled past three times by opposition players. The forward also messed up a couple of opportunities to thread a player through on goal on the counter as he chose the wrong option and the attack broke down.

He has now played eight times for Leeds this season and is yet to register a single goal or assist from out wide for the Whites. In the Premier League this term, he has lost 59% of his duels and completed 74% of his passes whilst only creating 0.5 chances per game.

The £52k-per-week lightweight has quite simply not been good enough for Bielsa. His statistics show that he is not pulling his weight defensively or offensively and Leeds cannot afford to have a liability in the side in a relegation clash, with both teams potentially fighting hard to win an early six-pointer.

Therefore, he must be axed from the starting XI to give another player a chance to show that they are at the standard required to perform week-in, week-out. Youngsters Crysencio Summerville and Joe Gelhardt were both on the bench against Arsenal and could inject some youth and enthusiasm in place of James.

AND in other news, Sold for £10m, now a Championship outcast: Leeds had a blinder with “special” 24 y/o…

Many Everton fans have been left buzzing as some news emerged on their proposed new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock.

A video has now been shared on the official Twitter page of the Goodison Park faithful, which showed and explained the starting process of building the new ground, speaking to the principle engineer responsible for its construction.

As shared by the Merseyside club’s website, sand dredged from the Irish Sea is now being pumped into Bramley-Moore Dock as construction begins on building the new stadium.

Just watching the footage and reading up on the information has made it all so real for several Toffees supporters, who have been left very excited by the starting of the construction.

Still, there is a long way to go until the process is complete, but it is certainly good to see that construction has begun on their new home.

Everton fans on Bramley-Moore Dock news

These Blues were left buzzing as the video was shared on Twitter, with one EFC fan even going as far as to claim that it was ‘massive’:

“Massive step”

Credit: @D_Hart11

“Fascinating and worthy of a @SmithsonianChan doc. Let’s get that done.”

Credit: @WiscoMorty

“This is genuinely insane, the intelligence of the people orchestrating this is mind-boggling! On another level this project mate.”

Credit: @KevTweet13

“Love this”

Credit: @SavEliiz2014

“Can’t wait for this”

Credit: @ARobbo17

“Great stuff!!”

Credit: @CathyMcAlle

In other news, find out what club news has Evertonians gushing here!

Crystal Palace extended their unbeaten run to three games in the Premier League after securing a draw against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Monday night.

It could have been even better for the Eagles, though, as Patrick Vieira’s charges were just moments away from securing all three points before Alexandre Lacazette struck deep into injury time.

The Gunners started the game brightly and dominated the opening 20 minutes, deservedly taking the lead after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang reacted quickest to a Vicente Guaita save following Nicolas Pepe’s curling effort.

But Palace improved after a slow start and began to dominate possession against their north London rivals, although they struggled to create any real chances in the first half. 

However, that soon changed following the interval. Christian Benteke continued his good record in games against Arsenal with a well-taken equaliser, smashing the ball into the corner of Aaron Ramsdale’s net after Jordan Ayew robbed Thomas Partey of possession. 

The visitors once again stole the ball off their hosts to take the lead, with Conor Gallagher dispossessing Albert Sambi Lokonga in his own half before executed a perfect counter-attack, resulting in Odsonne Edouard hammering in a shot via the underside of the bar.

It was an impressive performance from Vieira’s charges despite Lacazette’s late equaliser, and there was a surprise star of the show leading the line for the capital club.

As per SofaScore, Benteke was awarded a match rating of 7.6 out of 10 for his efforts, the highest total received by any player on the pitch. And when taking a closer look at his underlying numbers, it’s easy to understand why.

The Belgium international struck the target with both of his shots during the 90 minutes, successfully completed both of his dribbles and won eight of his ten duels (80%), highlighting his effective and efficient performance at the top end of the pitch.

He bullied the Arsenal defence with his monstrous presence and not for the first time, beat the goalkeeper at the Emirates Stadium.

Benteke hadn’t found the back of the net all season until Monday night, but his expertly taken strike will fill him with confidence in the weeks ahead and provide Vieira with another viable source of goals.

And, in other news…Parish must seal Palace move for “phenomenal” £5.85m-rated gem, fans will be buzzing 

David Moyes has been handed a huge boost after a positive claim emerged over one of his most important West Ham stars this week…

What’s the word?

A lot has been made of Declan Rice’s future at the London Stadium and ahead of the upcoming transfer windows, interest in his signature is already mounting.

The Sun claim that Manchester City are ready to battle Manchester United in their attempts to secure the 22-year-old midfielder next summer.

Chelsea are another side that has regularly been mooted with their former academy starlet, whilst the Telegraph’s Matt Law revealed in July that Rice had rejected two contract offers from the Hammers’ hierarchy.

But an encouraging update has since emerged.

According to football.london’s Tom Clark, the 26-time England international is not for sale and the club aren’t open to fielding offers for Moyes’ key man.

“What I have been told is he is happy, not for sale & West Ham confirmed to me they’ve never received an offer for him & aren’t open to one,” he tweeted. “£100m is value WH have put on him. David Moyes actually said he’s worth more than £100m.”

Encouraging boost

Rice has been an integral part of West Ham’s recent change in fortunes and as vice-captain to the retiring Mark Noble, his influence in this side cannot be disputed.

Last season, the young midfielder ended the campaign as the Irons’ fourth highest-rated player as per WhoScored, having led the way for interceptions (1.8), total passes (47.7) and passing accuracy (88%) per game.

He wasn’t far behind for tackles (1.8) per match, either.

And after a very impressive Euro 2020, Rice has continued his phenomenal form into 2021/22.

As their current second-best player, as per WhoScored ratings, the English powerhouse is leading the way once again in the same metrics, having averaged 2.3 interceptions, 65.5 passes and a 95% accuracy rate across the Hammers’ opening four games thus far.

It merely highlights just how crucial he is to their fortunes as a lot of their play is dictated by him, whilst he also does the dirty work in defensive midfield.

The fact that Moyes values the Rush Green academy graduate at over £100m further reinforces his importance to the squad and is the most perfect endorsement of his rise in recent years.

As much as he deserves to be competing in the Champions League alongside some of his international teammates, those around the London Stadium, particularly the fanbase, can be relieved and excited by this latest development.

Valued at £63m by Transfermarkt, Rice appears to be a West Ham player for the foreseeable future.

AND in other news, Moyes should unleash “unplayable” £36m-rated beast in the Fellaini role this weekend…