After struggling in front of goal once again against Newcastle United, Leeds United have reportedly set their sights on a late move to sign a much-needed attacking addition.
Farke: Leeds "deserved" Newcastle point
A point against Newcastle is by no means a bad point for Leeds, who have lost just one of their opening three games back in the Premier League. Whilst the goals were missing once again, the Whites defended well and, to their credit, were at no point scrambling to keep hold of their draw against what is a Champions League side these days. As a result, Daniel Farke was left pleased with his side.
Their goalscoring issue is one that Elland Road chiefs are still attempting to solve. It looked as though Igor Paixao could solve that problem earlier in the summer, for example, before he joined Marseille. Meanwhile, Facundo Buonanotte also seemed like a well-placed option, only for Chelsea to come swooping in.
Facundo Buonanotte in action on loan at Leicester City.
So, it hasn’t been for the want of trying, but Leeds must still solve that problem before the transfer window slams shut. Countless teams have suffered relegation because of their struggle for goals. Leeds won’t want to add to that list.
Instead, following a solid start, the Yorkshire club have reportedly set their sights on another creative spark as Monday’s deadline continues to approach.
Leeds eyeing late Spertsyan move
As reported by The Athletic’s Beren Cross, Leeds are now eyeing a late move to sign Eduard Spertsyan from Krasnodar. The attacking midfielder has got off to an excellent start this season, scoring five goals and assisting seven more in just 10 games, and now finds himself on the 49ers’ radar.
Leeds open new talks to sign "fantastic" target after Buonanotte collapse
The Whites are still after an attacking addition.
1 ByTom Cunningham Aug 30, 2025
The fact that Farke has briefly worked with the midfielder before may also help any deal. The German coached Spertsyan during a three-month stint at Krasnodar, but never got the chance to see him play as a result of the winter break and Russian invasion of Ukraine. Now, the duo could have a late reunion at Elland Road.
Dubbed a “brilliant young talent” by U23 scout Antonio Mango in 2022, Spertsyan is now thriving at the peak of his powers and has only pushed on since that praise. As the window comes to a close, he’s one that Leeds should push to sign.
Newcastle United have picked out a crucial double signing for manager Eddie Howe as their £50m bid for Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen was rejected on Monday.
Strikers still high on Newcastle's agenda
The Magpies’ summer has been dominated by striker news, not least their efforts to keep hold of Alexander Isak, with the Swede still trying to seal a move to Premier League champions Liverpool.
Newcastle missed out on signing Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig earlier in the summer, with Manchester United snapping him up instead, but a host of alternatives have been mentioned, including Juventus marksman Dusan Vlahovic in recent days.
Juventus' Dusan Vlahovic in action with Manchester City's Ruben Dias andRicoLewis
Premier League pair Yoane Wissa and Nicolas Jackson are also considered genuine targets, with the former doing the same as Isak and refusing to play for his current club, but the primary target to emerge in recent days is Norway star Strand Larsen, who made his loan move to Wolves permanent this summer.
Regardless of what happens with Isak, Callum Wilson’s time at St James’ Park has come to an end and the Magpies must find a solution, but a £50m offer for the Norwegian was rejected on Monday.
Newcastle still targeting two striker signings
According to Football Insider, Newcastle and Howe want and expect to sign not one but two strikers this summer, with journalist Pete O’Rourke further explaining the situation amid the move for Strand Larsen, perhaps implying he will be joined by one of Wissa or Jackson.
This is going to be such a pivotal week for Newcastle, with so much potentially happening on the striker front, and it is a short period that could end up defining their season.
If Isak does leave, which doesn’t feel too likely currently, it is essential that two players are brought in, in order to make up for the gaping void that the 25-year-old would leave.
Should he stay put, however, the need for a couple of strikers would be lessened, assuming Isak can reintegrate with his teammates after being made to train alone by Howe.
Put bluntly, Newcastle’s summer has been something of a mess, including how they have handled the Isak saga, but it is imperative that they nail the next week or so.
New Tonali: Newcastle looking to sign £35m midfielder after holding talks
Newcastle United interested in midfielder reminiscent of Sandro Tonali
ByWill Miller Aug 25, 2025
To lose Isak and not bring in sufficient replacements could be fatal, in terms of the Magpies kicking on in both the Premier League and Champions League, and the ideal outcome would be to see Isak remain at St James’ Park, with a top-quality option such as Wissa joining him as competition.
A £20m Arsenal player who Mikel Arteta called “exceptional” now “wants to leave”, and a move across Europe is “very likely”.
Arteta praises his side after victory at Old Trafford
The fixture list handed the Gunners a tricky start to the 2025-26 campaign, as travelling to Old Trafford is always a daunting task, but Arteta’s side got the job done courtesy of a first-half header from Riccardo Calafiori, and the manager was pleased with the performance.
The Spaniard was particularly impressed with his side’s “phenomenal” display from a defensive standpoint, while he also praised the way in which they were able to handle the occasion, given the raucous atmosphere at Old Trafford.
William Saliba and Gabriel were, of course, at the heart of the defence, as the centre-back duo usually are if they are both fit, which means the north Londoners’ back-up options only receive limited game time.
That may not be too much of an issue for younger players, such as new signing Cristhian Mosquera, but defenders in the prime of their career are unlikely to want to play second fiddle.
As such, there is a feeling that Jakub Kiwior could now be heading for the exit door this summer, with Włodarczyk recently taking to X to reveal the Polish defender “wants to leave”, amid interest from FC Porto.
In fact, a move to the Liga Portugal club is deemed “very likely”, as they “haven’t given up”, after submitting an official offer back in July.
The 25-year-old, who joined the Gunners for £20m back in 2023, was left out of the squad that travelled to Old Trafford, and talks over an exit are currently “ongoing”.
Losing "exceptional" Kiwior could be blow for Arteta
Given that Saliba and Gabriel are almost nailed on to start in the Premier League if they are available, it is always going to be a difficult task for the Poland international to force his way into the side, but he has impressed when given the opportunity.
Indeed, with Gabriel sidelined due to injury, the former Spezia man was given the nod against Paris Saint-Germain the Champions League semi-final last season, and he certainly caught Arteta’s eye with his performance.
The Arsenal boss said: “He deserves a lot of credit because he hasn’t played too much throughout many months, and suddenly he’s been thrown into the most difficult context, at the highest level, playing against the best opponents, when you haven’t had the physical rhythm or the confidence to do it, and I think he’s been exceptional.”
Dependable back-up options are hard to come by, so it would be disappointing to lose Kiwior this summer, although not the end of the world, given Mosquera’s arrival.
Wolverhampton Wanderers have now made contact with the agent of a Champions League player who is “always dangerous”, according to a report from Sky Sports.
Wolves keen on new right-back following Semedo departure
Nelson Semedo has penned an emotional farewell to Wolves, following the former captain’s decision to leave upon the expiration of his contract this summer, saying: “You made me grow so much as a athlete and as a person.
“I always tried my best every single day to represent this club in a way it deserves and I made sure that I always left the pitch with nothing else to give.”
The Portuguese defender made 34 appearances in the Premier League last term, providing four assists, but having now made the decision to leave Molineux, Vitor Pereira will be tasked with bringing in a replacement.
Approach made: Wolves now make enquiry to sign "unbelievable" £15m striker
The Old Gold have made contact over a deal for a centre-forward, with Vitor Pereira looking to bolster his attacking options.
ByDominic Lund Jul 30, 2025
It appears as though the Old Gold may already be close to doing exactly that, having agreed a £14.8m deal to sign Sevilla’s Juanlu, however, they still need to convince the defender to make the move to the Premier League, amid rival interest from Napoli.
As such, an alternative option may be required, and Sky Sports Germany have now reported that Wolves have made contact with the agent of Borussia Dortmund’s Ryerson, who is also attracting interest from newly-promoted Sunderland.
Despite being content in the Bundesliga, the Dortmund defender dreams of a move to the Premier League, which suggests a deal could be possible, although the Old Gold are yet to enter concrete negotiations.
Mainz'sAnthonyCaciin action with Borussia Dortmund's Julian Ryerson
It is unclear what sort of fee the German side would be looking to receive, but they may be keen to make a profit on the €5m (£4m) they shelled out in 2022, given that the 27-year-old has emerged as an important player in recent times.
"Dangerous" Ryerson could be ideal Semedo heir
Semedo is capable of making a real impact on the front foot, as displayed by the fact he ranks in the 83rd percentile for successful take-ons over the past year, and there are indications the Dortmund ace could be a similar type of player.
Former Dortmund boss Edin Terzic has previously lauded the full-back for the impact he makes going forward, saying: “I took an early liking to him and his style of play. He plays with great intensity and is always dangerous when he’s on the offensive as well. That’s what sets him apart.”
The Norwegian has experience in the Champions League, making 12 appearances in the competition last season, while also finding the back of the net against Maccabi Haifa in the Conference League during his time with Union Berlin.
Following Semedo’s departure, Pereira may be keen to bring in a new right-back who is capable of posing a threat on the front foot, and Ryerson very much fits the bill.
Everton manager David Moyes has been able to count on several excellent midfielders throughout his spells managing the Toffees, Manchester United and West Ham United.
During his first spell on Merseyside, the Scot had players such as Tim Cahill, Marouane Fellaini, Steven Pienaar, and, of course, Mikel Arteta, to call upon as the club regularly finished in the top eight of the Premier League table and qualified for Europe.
While he wasn’t at Old Trafford for long, Moyes could count on Michael Carrick, Tom Cleverley and Shinji Kagawa.
It was at West Ham, however, that the 62-year-old would work with arguably one of the finest midfielders of his managerial career.
Declan Rice may have made his debut for West Ham under the leadership of Slaven Bilic, but it was Moyes who nurtured the Englishman and turned him from someone with bags of potential into a world-class superstar.
Declan Rice for West Ham
Why Declan Rice was so good under David Moyes
Rice really came of age during the 2017/18 season, making a total of 23 appearances in all competitions for the Irons.
He made his FA Cup debut under Moyes in January 2018 and was a regular under him until the Scot departed at the end of that season.
dan-chesters-declan-rice-west-ham
The former Man United boss returned to the London Stadium in December 2019, and by that time, Rice was firmly established as one of the finest players in the squad.
Indeed, the midfielder even made his England debut in March 2019 under Gareth Southgate.
Declan Rice for West Ham
Rice led West Ham to an impressive sixth-place finish in the 2020/21 Premier League season, which saw the club secure qualification for the Europa League.
The Englishman starlet made ten appearances in Europe as the Irons reached the semi-finals before being knocked out by Eintracht Frankfurt. The following campaign, however, saw Rice become the first West Ham captain since Bobby Moore in 1965 to lift European silverware.
He missed all but two games of that season as they won the Conference League against Fiorentina, scoring once and providing an assist along the way.
Throughout that Euro campaign, Rice succeeded with 91% of his passes, won over 70% of his ground duels per game, lost possession just 5.5 times per match and averaged 1.7 tackles each game, proving that he was the cornerstone for Moyes’ side in Europe.
It was a fitting way for the player to end his time at West Ham, as in the summer of 2023, he made the move to Arsenal for a fee in the region of £100m.
His development under Moyes was incredible, and he surely has a lot to thank his old boss for. That’s for sure.
The Scot would love to have another midfielder who exudes all of Rice’s qualities ahead of the coming season, especially as he targets a top-half Premier League finish for the club.
Could Everton be targeting a former Premier League star in the transfer market? One who seemingly wants to make the move to Merseyside this summer?
Everton could sign Moyes' new Rice
Thierno Barry has made the move to the northwest, while Moyes is keen on securing a stunning deal to sign Malick Fofana from Lyon.
Elsewhere, Adam Aznou is closing in on a move to Everton from Bayern Munich, and this will give Moyes options on the left side of the defence.
Now, it looks as though he is ready to make moves in order to bolster his midfield. Former Aston Villa star Douglas Luiz is one name who has been linked of late, but a recent update suggests the Toffees might just be frontrunners for his signature.
According to Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport (via Sport Witness), Luiz is now pushing for a move to Everton, despite Nottingham Forest and West Ham still in the running for the player.
Douglas Luiz in action for Juventus.
This is one transfer that Moyes should be looking to wrap up as soon as possible. Not only does Luiz have the perfect attributes to succeed under his system, but his vast Premier League experience means he won’t need time to settle.
Furthermore, and perhaps more importantly, Luiz could turn out to be Moyes’ next Rice…
Why Everton must sign Douglas Luiz
During Luiz’s final season with Aston Villa in 2023/24, Rice was the seventh-most comparable player to the Brazilian in the Premier League, via FBref.
Indeed, the pair even registered similar statistics when it came to a range of metrics, including goals and assists (14 vs 15), shots per 90 (1.32 vs 1.62), pass success rate (85.7% vs 89.7%), shot-creating actions per 90 (3.52 vs 2.79) and tackles won (38 vs 51) in the top flight that campaign.
Matches (starts)
35 (35)
19 (3)
Goals
9
0
Assists
5
0
Touches per game
70.1
27.3
Pass completion
89%
90%
Big chances created
10
3
Key passes per game
1.5
0.8
Dribbles per game
0.7
0.6
Ball recoveries per game
5.5
1.6
Duels (won)*
4.2 (51%)
1.9 (55%)
According to WhoScored, both Luiz and Rice count key passing and taking set pieces as main strengths, while the duo are also able to provide a major goal threat in the final third, as well as offer excellent defensive support.
Luiz went from raw talent to a genuine “world-class” player – according to John McGinn – and this secured him his big move to Juventus last summer.
Unfortunately, it didn’t quite work out for the former Manchester City midfielder in Turin, where he made just 27 appearances in all competitions after signing for £42m, with only ten of those coming in the starting XI.
Despite this, he still managed to create three big chances in Serie A, while also averaging 0.8 key passes per game, all while averaging 27 minutes per game for the Old Lady.
It is evident that he needs a fresh start to kickstart his career, and Moyes could certainly provide him with the ideal platform to shine.
Given the comparisons between him and Rice, the Scot would definitely bring out the best in the former Villa star, that’s for sure.
With less than three weeks to their first league fixture of the season, the manager will be keen on wrapping up this deal sooner rather than later. If so, Luiz can become Moyes’ new Rice.
Better than Ndiaye: Everton in talks to sign "magnificent" £43m star
As Everton search for reinforcements this summer, the Toffees are in talks to sign a “magnificent prospect”.
With Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez already potentially heading for the exit door, Liverpool now reportedly face the threat of losing another one of their key men to Barcelona.
Bayern make fresh move to sign Diaz
As Liverpool look to make their biggest statement yet by signing want-away Newcastle United star Alexander Isak, they could show the door to Diaz along the way. The Colombian has been linked with a move away from Anfield all summer long and it’s Bayern Munich who have been battling for his signature.
As ever, though, Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes are proving to be tough negotiators. The Bundesliga giants have consistently been told that Diaz is not for sale, but the chance for Liverpool to sign Isak may have left the door ajar for the two clubs to finally reach an agreement.
In the latest update, Sky Sports are reporting that Bayern have now re-opened talks to sign the 28-year-old winger for the first time since seeing their £58.5m offer rejected earlier this summer.
Those at Anfield are now reportedly braced for an improved offer, but it remains to be seen whether that will satisfy Edwards and Hughes’ demands to sell Diaz.
Meanwhile, Nunez could also be heading for the exit door amid reports that Al-Hilal are now holding internal discussions about securing his signature in a deal worth over £60m.
Isak's new Gordon: Liverpool lining up "explosive" £51m Diaz replacement
Liverpool are still ready to be active in the summer transfer market.
1 ByAngus Sinclair Jul 25, 2025
If the arrival of Hugo Ekitike has pushed the former Benfica man down the pecking order, then the arrival of Isak would make him surplus to requirements entirely in Merseyside and that is likely to result in a departure.
Liverpool shouldn’t be overly concerned about losing either of their attacking stars, however, given the strength in depth in that department. Instead, their concern should be focused on elsewhere in their squad.
Barcelona enter race to sign Konate
According to reports in Spain, Barcelona have now entered the race to sign Ibrahima Konate from Liverpool alongside La Liga rivals Real Madrid. The French defender is currently on course to leave as a free agent this time next year and could yet follow in the footsteps of Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Anfield chiefs, meanwhile, will be desperate to avoid the same fate and have already reportedly tabled a fresh contract offer to their important defender.
Unlike Diaz and Nunez, Konate is not a player who can easily be replaced. The towering central defender is at the peak of his powers at 26 years old and should be seen as the eventual Van Dijk replacement in the leadership role within Arne Slot’s backline. But that won’t be possible unless he signs a new deal.
Games
14
Wins
9
Draws
2
Losses
3
Goals Conceded
19
What stands out the most when Liverpool were without their £70,000-a-week defender last season is the fact they conceded around 1.4 goals a game compared to their record of 1.2 when he is next to Van Dijk in their backline.
Simply put, replacing Konate at this stage of his career with someone who could instantly perform to similar levels would hand Liverpool their toughest task this summer.
Arsenal supporters have watched new sporting director Andrea Berta get to work on a flurry of statement transfer deals this summer, with Noni Madueke joining from Chelsea for around £52 million and defender Cristhian Mosquera travelling to London for a medical most recently (Standard Sport).
International captain approves Arsenal exit with talks planned in coming days
The Gunners need to balance out their squad.
ByEmilio Galantini Jul 17, 2025
The duo have joined Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard among Mikel Arteta’s crop of brand-new players ahead of what will be an all-important Premier League campaign, with Arsenal seeking to end their 21-year wait for a league title.
Madueke’s arrival, after he put pen to paper on a five-year contract at Arsenal on Wednesday (Fabrizio Romano), has raised eyebrows among supporters – but journalist Charles Watts says that Arteta was really pushing to make the deal happen.
19/20 – winter
£0
20/21 – summer
£81.5m
20/21 – winter
£900k
21/22 – summer
£156.8m
21/22 – winter
£1.8m
22/23 – summer
£121.5m
22/23 – winter
£59m
23/24 – summer
£208m
23/24 – winter
£0
24/25 – summer
£101.5m
24/25 – winter
£0
25/26 – summer
£140m
“I know Arsenal are very happy with the price they have paid,” Watts said to CaughtOffside.
“They believe it matches up well to what other players of Madueke’s profile have moved for this summer and are adamant that in a couple of years time people will look on it as an excellent piece of business.
“Mikel Arteta has really been pushing this deal, he believes Madueke can thrive in an environment like Arsenal’s and does not view him as a back-up. He is bringing him in to play a lot of games, whether that be on the right or on the left.”
Now, attention has fully turned to finalising a move for Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres after weeks of talks.
Arsenal have reached an agreement in principle to sign the Sweden international, who will put pen to paper on a five-year contract (The Athletic), but there’s a final round of negotiations happening right now over the add-ons and bonuses involved (The Guardian).
Gyokeres’ agent agreed to waive his fee to help make the transfer happen, and Berta is currently attempting to get him through the door in time for Arsenal’s pre-season tour of the Far East, which begins on Wednesday against AC Milan in Singapore.
Viktor Gyokeres wants to join Arsenal by Wednesday
That is according to Football Transfers, who also report that Arsenal are expecting a breakthrough in the discussions surrounding bonuses soon – which could take the transfer cost up to £69 million.
Viktor Gyokeres celebrating.
Gyokeres and Arsenal want him to join up with Arteta’s squad in time for their clash with Milan, and a medical is apparently scheduled to take place for him over the weekend, so all parties appear pretty confident this transfer will be completely finalised in imminent fashion.
The 27-year-old’s arrival would mark the end of Arsenal’s long search for a prolific number nine, and Gyokeres could well be a crucial factor in bridging the gap between Arsenal and English champions Liverpool.
The former Coventry City star is on the verge of returning to England after two years free-scoring in Portugal, with Gyokeres netting an outstanding 97 goals in 102 appearances.
For a club who have a reputation for moving slowly in the transfer window, the last few weeks have been quite unusual for Arsenal.
In fact, things seem to be changing daily, with the board appearing to do their best to support Mikel Arteta’s side ahead of what could be a make-or-break campaign next season.
For example, in addition to Martin Zubimendi and Kepa Arizabalaga, the Gunners are set to announce the signing of Christian Norgaard and appear to be incredibly close to securing the services of the prolific Viktor Gyokeres.
However, not every potential deal has been met with universal excitement, with rumours surrounding Noni Madueke going down like a lead balloon in large sections of the fanbase.
Fortunately, Arsenal appear to be closing in on another, far more popular deal for someone who’d be a dream ten for Bukayo Saka.
Arsenal closing in on a better signing than Madueke
Reports linking Arsenal with Madueke started to pop up midway through last month, but it’s really been in the previous week or two that they’ve become impossible to ignore.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
In fact, it was earlier this week that the Chelsea ace reportedly agreed to personal terms, and then yesterday evening it was revealed that the Gunners had submitted an offer worth £50m for him.
There is no doubt that the Englishman is talented, but with the fee and the fact he’s another player from the Blues, it would be fair to say that the fans haven’t been on board, with journalist Sam Dean asking if there has ever been a response to another potential signing quite like this.
Fortunately, the club to seem to be advancing on a deal for another Premier League star, someone that will be a far more popular addition to the team: Eberechi Eze.
At least that is according to a recent report from journalist Sebastien Vidal, who has claimed that Arsenal are “stepping up their pursuit” of the Crystal Palace star.
Furthermore, he’s revealed that the Gunners have already submitted an offer worth around £45m “plus performance-related bonuses” for the England international, although it remains to be seen if the Eagles will accept it.
It’s likely to be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but Eze has proven he’d be worth it, especially as he’d be a dream ten for Saka.
Why Eze woud be Saka's dream ten
The first and most crucial reason Eze would be a dream ten for Saka at Arsenal is the simple fact that, over the last few seasons, he has developed into a lean, mean output machine.
For example, in 36 appearances across the 23/24 season, totalling 2285 minutes, he scored 11 goals and provided six assists, which comes out to a goal involvement every 2.11 games, or every 134.41 minutes.
Then, last season, he did even better, scoring 14 goals and providing 11 assists in 43 appearances, totalling 3,303 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal or assist every 1.72 games, or every 132.12 minutes.
Appearances
36
43
Minutes
2285′
3303′
Goals
11
14
Assists
6
11
Goal Involvements per Match
0.47
0.58
Minutes per Goal Involvement
134.41′
132.12′
In contrast, Martin Odegaard was only able to score six goals and provide 12 assists in 45 appearances, totalling 3447 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.5 games, or every 191.5 minutes.
Just imagine how much more effective the Gunners’ talismanic number seven could be playing alongside the Palace “superstar,” as respected analyst Ben Mattinson dubbed him.
Moreover, with the game-winning goal in the FA Cup final last season, alongside strikes in the semi-finals and quarter-finals, the 27-year-old has proven himself to be a man for the big occasion, or, as one analyst put it, “a player born for magical European nights.”
Finally, away from purely football arguments and things that are measurable, it seems like there is a genuine friendship between the two players.
In fact, some reports from earlier this summer claimed that the Hale Ender was pushing for the former QPR star to make the move to the Emirates, and while it’s hard to quantify what this connection actually means for them on a football pitch, it can only be a good thing.
Moreover, with both of them regulars in the England squad, they’d have even more time to learn each other’s game and further solidify what could be a tremendously exciting partnership.
Ultimately, Arsenal should do everything they can to sign Eze this summer, as not only would he be an excellent addition to the squad through his own ability, but he could be just the player to help Saka reach another level as well.
Their new Alexis: Arsenal reach agreement in principle to sign £69m star
Arsenal could be closing in on signing their new Alexis Sanchez.
It’s a good time to be a Liverpool fan. Here’s why.
Liverpool have just won the Premier League, in case you missed it, in the first season since Jurgen Klopp called it a day. FSG were ruled in the court of public opinion to have an impossible task on their hands, and few felt threatened when Feyenoord boss Arne Slot was appointed the iconic German’s successor.
But Slot is now champion of England, and he’s certainly being rewarded for his triumph in the summer transfer market.
Last week, Liverpool announced the signing of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen, having already raided the German side for Jeremie Frimpong.
Wirtz is one of the brightest number tens in world football, and his £100m fixed fee may rise to a British-record £116m.
Now, Milos Kerkez has alighted in Merseyside as he completes the finer details of his move to Anfield. The Bournemouth left-back will sign in a move worth £40m. He is touted as Andy Robertson’s successor.
The young Hungarian has leapt at the chance to sign for Slot’s Reds, but what is it about his take on the full-back game that has prompted FSG to barrel ahead and make him the most expensive wide defender in Liverpool’s history?
Why Liverpool have signed Milos Kerkez
Robertson is a legend, but there’s no question he’s been on the decline. The 31-year-old is being targeted by Atletico Madrid, and Kerkez, a decade his junior, is the perfect heir.
AFC Bournemouth's MilosKerkez
While Kerkez, 21, has only been in the English football for two years, he came into his own under Andoni Iraola’s wing last season, starting all 38 of Bournemouth’s top-flight fixtures, scoring twice and laying on five assists.
Athletic, energetic and unrelentingly intense, he’s the real deal, having also been coveted by Manchester City and Real Madrid. Liverpool were always a step ahead, and he’ll help take this wonderful team to the next level.
In a way, Slot has hit the jackpot with the squad he inherited, but we must not forget that Liverpool had gone four years without tasting the Premier League, and he fuelled the fire that hadn’t proved quite enough over the past several seasons.
He deserves a squad fashioned in his vision, and Kerkez fits the bill. However, Liverpool still need a centre-back, and sporting director Richard Hughes has just the player in mind.
Liverpool prepare bid for new defender
According to French journalist Sébastien Vidal, Liverpool are set to table their opening bid for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi “at the end of the week”, news which follows Fabrizio Romano’s confirmation that FSG are indeed keen after agreeing to sell Jarell Quansah to Leverkusen.
It emerged several days ago that the Merseysiders have a long-term interest in the England international, who is out of contract in one year.
They would be willing to pay £30m, but this is not expected to convince the Eagles to part ways.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
However, Guehi, who is 24, has just helped Palace to glory in the FA Cup and wants assurances over his playing time, with Arsenal, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur also considered suitors.
How Marc Guehi and Milos Kerkez could work in tandem
Guehi always had some degree of elite potential, having risen through the ranks at Chelsea’s Cobham academy before being sold to Palace for £18m in 2021 after two impressive loan spells with Swansea City in the Championship.
Crystal Palace's MarcGuehireacts
Now, he’s “England’s best centre-back” to some, and the online analyst who made that claim could certainly draw on data to substantiate his claim.
Indeed, Guehi won the FA Cup last year but has produced consistently quality performances over a series of years to attract Gareth Southgate’s attention, having featured prominently at Euro 2024, and now Thomas Tuchel’s too.
Solid as an ox and deceptively elegant on the ball, Guehi has the perfect style for ‘Slotball’, protecting Alisson Becker’s goal while subscribing to the ball-playing focus the coach expects.
It’s definitely a stylistic approach that could see him thrive with Kerkez, who has already proven himself invaluable alongside a ball-playing defender in Dean Huijsen, who Liverpool wanted before he signed for Real Madrid for £50m earlier this summer.
Guehi, as it goes, was recorded by data-focused site FBref to be one of the rising Spaniard’s most comparable players in the Premier League last season, ranked as he was among the top 11% of positional peers for goal involvements, the top 9% for through balls, and the top 21% for ball recoveries per 90.
It hasn’t just been a flash in the pan, though, with Guehi also standing out under Roy Hodgson’s wizened wing, injuries limiting his game in 2023/24 when Oliver Glasner first took the helm.
Matches (starts)
25 (23)
34 (34)
Goals
0
3
Assists
1
2
Touches*
61.6
64.9
Pass completion
87%
84%
Key passes*
0.3
0.5
Ball recoveries*
4.8
4.3
Dribbles*
0.3
0.4
Tackles + interceptions*
1.8
2.6
Clearances*
3.5
4.6
Duels (won)*
3.6 (60%)
4.9 (59%)
He’s a top player, praised for his “incredible” footballing ability by teammate Eberechi Eze, and with a clear emphasis on progressing play through dribbling upfield or picking out calculated forward passes, Kerkez could find the dream long-term partner on the left side of defence.
Of course, Virgil van Dijk holds down the fort rather well in that area, but the skipper turns 34 next month as he entered the penultimate year of his Liverpool career, and, as analyst Ben Mattinson so neatly puts it, he’s “one of those versatile CB’s who can play both sides equally as comfortably.”
Crystal Palace's MarcGuehicelebrates after the match
With such striking completeness and a blooming title-winning taste, Guehi would be a worthy addition to the Liverpool cause and the perfect left-sided partner for Kerkez to go from strength to strength under Slot’s watchful guidance.
The next Torres: Liverpool preparing huge bid to sign "frightening" striker
Liverpool aren’t messing around in the transfer market this summer.
Glasgow Rangers are set to confirm their first signing of the Russell Martin era as they close in on a deal to sign right-back Max Aarons from Bournemouth.
Fabrizio Romano reports that all of the documents have been signed to complete a season-long loan move for the former England U21 international, who is set to bolster the club’s defensive options.
Aarons is no stranger to the new Rangers boss because he came through the Norwich academy when the former Scotland international was the club captain at Carrow Road.
Speaking on the Talk Norwich City podcast in May, the 25-year-old defender explained why he thought Martin would become a manager in the future when they trained together.
Norwich defender Max Aarons.
Aarons said: “When he came and trained with us he had an aura. I always knew he would go on to be a manager. I think players who played with him always knew that as well.
“I knew we had to be on it when he was training with us and giving 110 per cent because if not Russ would tell you and I loved that.”
What Max Aarons could bring to Rangers
It is fair to say that Rangers are not signing Aarons at the apex of his career, as he has had a difficult time of things since leaving Norwich to sign for Bournemouth in 2023.
After missing just two games through injury in his entire time in Norfolk, the full-back suffered two injuries that kept him out for 15 matches combined in his first year at the Vitality, which heavily disrupted his progress with the Cherries.
The right-footed whiz only played 23 games in the Premier League in his first 18 months with Bournemouth, before being loaned out to Valencia, where he played five times, in the second half of the 2024/25 season.
However, if Rangers can get Aarons back to his best, then they could have a reliable defender who can also provide quality in possession, based on his impressive displays for Norwich when they won the Championship title in the 2018/19 and 2020/21 campaigns.
Starts
41
45
Goals
2
2
Big chances created
6
5
Assists
6
2
Clean sheets
11
17
Tackles + interceptions per game
2.7
1.6
Duel success rate
58%
53%
As you can see in the table above, the former Canaries star, who was named in the PFA Team of the Year on both occasions, offered a threat at the top end of the pitch whilst also helping his team to keep plenty of clean sheets.
Those performances for Norwich came in a ball-dominant team that won the league title both times, which shows that he can thrive as a full-back in a side that competes at the very top of the league, as Rangers will do next term.
As shown in the clip above, Aarons excels at linking up with teammates to maraud down the flank in transition, helping his team to get up the pitch quickly and effectively to create chances in the final third.
The English whiz struck up an exceptional partnership with Emiliano Buendia on the right flank, as they played at right-back and right-wing week-in-week-out in both of those title-winning seasons for Norwich.
Former Norwich midfielder Emi Buendia.
Buendia was a natural number ten who was utilised as a right-winger by Daniel Farke, with the license to drift infield into central areas to create space for Aarons to bomb on and make runs into the final third.
That partnership clearly helped the full-back to flourish, given his form for Norwich in those seasons, and that is why Martin can make the defender explode again by signing Tyrhys Dolan, who is a reported Rangers target this summer.
Why Tyrhys Dolan is perfect for Max Aarons
The Light Blues should sign the Blackburn Rovers forward before the end of the summer transfer window because he could be the perfect signing alongside Aarons.
Dolan could also be a bargain signing for the Scottish Premiership giants because his contract at Ewood Park is due to expire at the end of this month, which means that he is set to be available on a free transfer.
It is his quality and versatility on the pitch that Rangers should be most interested in, though, as the wing wizard, who created seven ‘big chances’ for his teammates in the 2024/25 campaign, has the potential to be a Buendia-esque figure ahead of Aarons on the right flank.
Dolan, who was once lauded as “outstanding” by former boss John Eustace, is a versatile attacker who can comfortably play out wide on the right or in a central position.
Right wing
48
5
6
Centre-forward
38
5
3
Attacking midfield
26
6
4
Right midfield
25
4
3
Left winger
17
4
1
Left midfield
12
2
3
Second striker
4
1
1
As you can see in the table above, the 23-year-old whiz has predominantly played as a right winger, but has plenty of experience as a striker and as a number ten.
This suggests that he would be perfectly suited to playing a similar role to the one that Buendia played ahead of Aarons at Norwich, as he can start out wide on the right and drift inside to create space for the full-back on the overlap.
Interestingly, Adam Armstrong played a similar tactical role for Martin in the 2023/24 campaign in the Championship, as he started on the right wing before coming infield to play as a striker.
This particular position for Dolan, who scored seven goals and provided six assists this season, would be slightly different, coming into a number ten area instead of playing as a number nine, to make sure that Aarons can thrive as an overlapping full-back.
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Therefore, Dolan could be the perfect signing for the Light Blues to help Aarons explode next season, because of the goals and assists he can provide as well as the positional flexibility to play a unique tactical role.