All posts by z3u9t.icu

Liverpool have been quite the busy shoppers this summer. But then we knew this would be the case, with Arne Slot having established himself as Jurgen Klopp’s successor with minimal investment last season, only signing Juventus’ Federico Chiesa for a £12.5m fee.

Chiesa’s first Premier League start came against Brighton & Hove Albion in May. It was the penultimate game of the season, and he lasted only an hour.

Now, the Italian forward, wracked by injuries and consequent struggles for form and fluency last year, is set to leave. It’s a sad thing, since he’s talented and popular both in the dressing room and with the fanbase, but the 27-year-old must act wisely, following his career ambitions.

Mohamed Salah, then, will continue to dominate on the right flank, but Jeremie Frimpong adds depth and Ben Doak may too, although the young Scot has been linked with a move away after his loan spell with Middlesbrough last term.

Chiesa can also play centrally, but with Liverpool now on the brink of finalising the signing of Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike, there’s cause for optimism, all right.

Liverpool seal deal for Hugo Ekitike

All that remains is the official announcement. Liverpool have got their man. Ekitike is regarded as one of the most talented young strikers in the world and could lead the Anfield line for many years to come.

While Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak was (still is?) the club’s top target at number nine, the Magpies are seeking something significant, in the £130m ballpark, to part ways with their talisman.

Ekitike is undeveloped, but there’s so much to like. With silky and speedy running, combining with an instinctive sharpness, he has been likened by data-driven site FBref as one of Isak’s most comparable players.

It’s a fantastic deal, and no mistake. However, Liverpool aren’t done yet, and they are preparing to make their move for what could prove to be an even better signing.

Liverpool prepare bid for Premier League star

As per Football Insider, Liverpool are preparing to make their move for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi.

Transfer Focus

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

Prevailing interest from Real Madrid in Ibrahima Konate, who has entered the final year of his contract, is thought to have raised the urgency for sporting director Richard Hughes.

The report states that the Premier League champions are looking increasingly likely to make a £45m offer for the England international this summer.

Guehi, 25, is also just one year away from free agency, and with no plans to extend his stay at Selhurst Park, Liverpool will be confident that they can get a deal done this summer.

How Marc Guehi could improve Liverpool

Liverpool know that losing Konate would be a blow. It would be a bitter pill to swallow, for the Frenchman is one of the best defenders in the world.

But so is Guehi; many just don’t know it yet. Although saying that, he’s not unaccomplished. Hailed as “England’s best centre-back” by one analyst, the Three Lions star did captain Palace to last year’s FA Cup title, beating Manchester City in the final.

While signing a striker such as Ekitike marks important business for the Reds, it might actually be that Guehi would mark better business, for, regardless of the outcome of Konate’s situation, Liverpool have spent frugally on their central defence in recent years.

With Jarell Quansah having been sold to Bayer Leverkusen for £35m, you might even say that landing a player like Guehi is a necessity, especially when considering the cut-price fee that he is available for.

Considering that Tottenham Hotspur tried to prise him away from south London only in January, offering a £70m fee, this could go down as a blinder.

Did Newcastle United not fail with four offers one year ago, the last of which totalled £65m? Circumstances dictate financial parameters in football, but this would undoubtedly prove a fantastic deal for Liverpool, snapping up a defender approaching the prime of their career for a shrewd figure.

Described as a “monster in defence” by reporter Bobby Manzi, Guehi is the real deal, having come into his own last year. Certainly, his complete and commanding Premier League performances suggest he has what it takes to thrive at Liverpool as they chase down another title.

Matches (starts)

34 (34)

Goals

3

Assists

2

Clean sheets

11

Touches*

64.9

Pass completion

84%

Key passes*

0.5

Dribbles*

0.4

Ball recoveries*

4.3

Tackles + interceptions*

2.6

Clearances*

4.6

Duels (won)*

4.9 (59%)

Errors made

2

And not just any defender. While Ekitike is a talented and up-and-coming sensation, Guehi is already there, and he’s proven in the Premier League besides, which is a big thing. Long is the list of prospects alighting in England’s top flight with a weight of expectation only to fall flat.

We’re not advocating for Ekitike’s demise; far from it. Talent scout Jacek Kulig claims that the Frenchman “could definitely reach world-class striker levels”, and that’s certainly the vision of FSG and Slot.

However, this hopefully sheds some light on the masterful deal that Hughes and co could pull off by signing Guehi, who, having featured prominently for England and in the Premier League, could play a starring role in Slot’s machinations, looking to dominate for years to come.

And he knows how to pass, too. As per FBref, Guehi ranked among the top 17% of centre-backs across Europe’s top five leagues last season for assists and the top 13% for shot-creating actions per 90.

Oliver Glasner’s high-intensity, transitional style of football has instilled in Guehi an angle toward the ball-playing side of the central defensive game. Slot, then, would find in the titan a style which matches his own brand at Liverpool.

With other clubs also keen, Liverpool need to get this one over the line pronto.

Their own Zubimendi: Liverpool favourites to sign "generational" £100m CM

Liverpool are reportedly favourites to sign one of the Premier League’s best young midfielders.

1 ByMatt Dawson Jul 21, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur made a big splash in the market on Thursday night when they officially confirmed the signing of Mohammed Kudus from Premier League rivals West Ham United.

The Ghana international has put pen to paper on a long-term contract with the Lilywhites and will be hoping to shine on the Champions League stage next season.

Thomas Frank and Daniel Levy are not done there, though, as they are also looking to bring Nottingham Forest attacking midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White to North London.

The Guardian reports that his expected £60m transfer to the club has been delayed by Forest’s complaint that Spurs did not have permission to speak with the player, and their complaint around the confidentiality of the £60m release clause in his contract.

It states that the Tricky Trees consider the deal to be off, but the feeling is that their protestations are likely to delay a transfer, rather than derail it.

However, it now remains to be seen exactly how this transfer saga is going to play out, as Spurs hope that they will be able to add him to their squad before long.

What Morgan Gibbs-White could bring to Spurs

The 25-year-old ace could add to Frank’s depth in the attacking midfield department as a player who has already proven his quality in the Premier League with Forest.

However, although it should not be completely ruled out, Spurs supporters should not be expecting a generational talent to arrive at the club in the form of Gibbs-White.

In fact, there is no guarantee that he will come in as a significant upgrade on Tottenham’s current number ten James Maddison, if they are even competing for the same place in Frank’s system.

Their respective performances in the Premier League during the 2024/25 campaign, despite Forest finishing higher in the Premier League, suggest that he may not be an upgrade on Maddison at all.

Appearances

34

31

xG

6.34

5.83

Goals

7

9

Big chances created

10

6

xA

4.69

5.91

Assists

8

7

Possession lost per game

12.7

10.3

As you can see in the table above, the former Norwich man’s output – goals and xA – was more impressive than Gibbs-White’s, despite playing fewer games and giving the ball away fewer times per game.

These statistics suggest that they are, in fact, fairly similar in what they offer at the top end of the pitch and could provide healthy competition for each other, rather than Gibbs-White, who has only been capped four times by England, coming in as an immediate upgrade.

Meanwhile, Spurs are reportedly interested in signing another English midfielder who is an even bigger talent than the Nottingham Forest attacker.

Spurs eyeing move for English midfielder

According to GIVEMESPORT, Frank has pinpointed Crystal Palace central midfielder Adam Wharton as a ‘leading target’ for the summer transfer window.

The report claims that it will be a difficult deal for the Europa League champions to pull off, but Daniel Levy has been given the ‘green light’ to make more big-money signings to bolster the squad.

Transfer Focus

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

It adds that Wharton is now ‘firmly’ in Frank’s sights as the Danish head coach wants to beef up his options in the middle of the park ahead of next season.

The outlet states that the English maestro is an ‘ambitious’ target for the Lilywhites, who are now weighing up whether or not to make a formal approach for the former Blackburn star.

GIVEMESPORT reveals that Palace are set to demand a fee of at least £80m for the left-footed defensive midfielder, and it remains to be seen whether or not Tottenham are willing to spend that much on him this summer.

Why Spurs should sign Adam Wharton

Tottenham should, if they have the funds, splash the cash to bring the Eagles sensation to North London in the weeks to come because he is an even bigger talent than Gibbs-White who is worth paying the extra £20m for.

The 21-year-old is four years younger than the Forest star, yet has already been capped by England and is currently valued at £20m more than him, at £80m.

Wharton, despite his young age, has emerged as one of the hottest midfield properties in the division because of the immense quality that he provides on the pitch at both ends of the pitch.

The left-footed star is a rare talent who combines physicality, athleticism, intelligence, technical ability, and determination. In short, he has everything that you could wish to ask for from a deep-lying midfielder.

Wharton, who was highly praised by Declan Rice last year, averaged 2.7 tackles and interceptions and 5.1 ball recoveries per game in the Premier League last term, without making a single mistake that led to a shot or a goal for the opposition.

To go along with the defensive qualities that the English youngster offers in the middle of the park, the Palace star would be an upgrade on what Frank currently has in midfield from an in-possession perspective.

Adam Wharton

7.31

4.03

Rodrigo Bentancur

5.47

2.46

Yves Bissouma

4.79

1.02

Archie Gray

2.06

0.31

Pape Matar Sarr

4.14

2.12

As you can see in the table above, Wharton is significantly better at progressing play with his passes and knitting together moves that result in shots for his side than the likes of Rodrigo Bentancur and Yves Bissouma are, based on his form last term.

This proves that the £80m-rated metronome, who has been called “world-class” by journalist Luke Weaser-Seychell, is a midfielder who combines defensive work with exceptional play on the ball.

Therefore, Wharton could arrive at Spurs this summer as an upgrade on what they currently have at their disposal, which is why they should be pushing to bring him in.

It is also further evidence that he would be an even bigger talent for the club than Gibbs-White, as a more expensive signing who could walk straight into the XI, whilst the attacking midfielder may not find it easy to take Maddison’s place.

Kudus' dream striker: £50m star now wants to join Spurs after Gibbs-White

Tottenham Hotspur have wasted no time in hunting for additional signings after agreeing a deal for Mohammed Kudus.

ByEthan Lamb Jul 11, 2025

Signing a replacement for Andre Onana has seemingly been one of Manchester United’s biggest priorities since the start of the summer. Now, chasing exactly that, the Red Devils have reportedly joined the race to sign a Club World Cup star.

Man Utd's goalkeeper search goes on

Although reports have suggested that Onana believes he’ll still be the No.1 at Manchester United next season and he’s keen to fight for his place, Ruben Amorim may not share that view. The Portuguese manager must be ruthless and showing the Cameroon international the door should be one of his first acts this summer.

He's better than Cunha: Man Utd close in on signing "phenomenal" star

Manchester United look set to complete their second signing of the summer after Matheus Cunha.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 25, 2025

That said, the Red Devils must get their next move right after Onana. They cannot risk signing another liability. Whoever arrives, be it Emiliano Martinez, Andriy Lunin, Diogo Costa or another option, simply has to be a significant upgrade on the former Inter Milan man.

Whilst Martinez has been the most prominent name in recent rumours, the numbers indicate that the Aston Villa man would not be the much-needed upgrade that Amorim needs, as highlighted by Statman Dave.

Four errors leading to shots is far from an ideal record, but signing Martinez wouldn’t exactly solve that problem for United. Instead, their troubles may simply take the shape of a new No.1 if they sign the World Cup winner this summer.

Those at Old Trafford certainly have plenty to think about and that thinking has reportedly seen them turn towards the Club World Cup for a fresh option.

Man Utd plotting John Victor move

According to Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, Manchester United are now plotting a summer swoop to sign John Victor from Botafofo who has a release clause worth just $8m (£6m).

The impressive shot-stopper agreed to stay put at the Brazilian side to play at the Club World Cup in a decision which has resulted in a moment to remember against Paris Saint-Germain.

Joining Alisson Becker as the only goalkeeper to keep a clean sheet against PSG this season, the Botafogo goalkeeper played a pivotal part as his side shocked the Champions League holders to win 1-0.

For just £6m, Manchester United could sign a goalkeeper who managed to keep Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia out and someone who is ready to step into European football.

Having reportedly sent scouts to watch the 29-year-old in action, United should be well aware of Victor’s talents and, more importantly, his ability to play at the very top level.

Rather than signing the likes of Martinez or Costa this summer, INEOS could yet turn towards an unexpected option in the Brazilian.

A Rangers star who Russell Martin is looking to keep at Ibrox is now “ready to quit” the club this summer, according to a new report.

Martin expecting new Rangers signings before Panathinaikos clash

The Gers don’t have long until their first competitive game of the 2025/26 season, with a two-legged Champions League qualifier against Greek side Panathinaikos scheduled for the end of July.

Martin and the 49ers Enterprises are therefore looking to get deals over the line before July 22 and the first leg at Ibrox, with the new manager expecting a couple of signings by then.

Midfielder Lyall Cameron became the club’s first official signing of the summer after penning a pre-contract agreement back in February, whereas right-back Max Aarons will move to Rangers on loan from Bournemouth.

More could be on the way, but several incomings may also be coupled with a few departures. The likes of Robin Propper and Cyriel Dessers heavily linked with leaving Ibrox.

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Jun 22, 2025

There have also been rumours of an exit for Nicolas Raskin, however, Martin wants to keep both Raskin and Hamza Igamane and build his Rangers side around the pair.

Despite this, a new worrying transfer update has now emerged on Raskin’s Rangers future.

Nicolas Raskin "ready to quit" Rangers

According to a report from Ibrox News, Raskin is “ready to quit” Rangers over the coming months and “could soon inform Rangers of his decision to leave”.

It is added that the Belgium international “is only willing to depart Ibrox if a side from a top league is to show a strong interest in his signature”.

The 24-year-old, dubbed “unbelievable” in the past, has been linked with the likes of Aston Villa and Leeds United, with the latter also owned by the 49ers.

Games

48

Goals

5

Assists

11

Yellow cards

11

Red cards

0

Minutes played

3,845

After joining in January 2023, Raskin has gone on to make 95 appearances in total for the Gers, half of which came in 2024/25 where he was a key man under both Philippe Clement and Barry Ferguson.

Ibrox News have added that “there is no guarantee of a move as things stand”, but with plenty of time until the transfer window closes, it does look as if an exit could materialise between now and September 1.

Burnley are preparing for life back in the Premier League and could now be in the lead to sign a proven international defender, according to a report.

Burnley ready to break cycle of newly-promoted clubs in Premier League

Many newly promoted sides of the past have found it difficult to transition to life in the Premier League after claiming promotion, which is something the Clarets are desperate to change at Turf Moor.

Speaking ahead of their return to top-flight action, Nedum Onuoha believes Burnley should use Brentford as an example of how to survive and grow among the elite of the English pyramid over the next few years.

He explained: “It sounds a bit dull if you are a Burnley fan, but stick with the process. Clubs that manage to maintain their identity, can end up doing well. Brentford, for example. They never really deviated away from the model that they have, and now they’re an established Premier League side.”

Nevertheless, signings are necessary for the EFL Championship runners-up to build a squad that can live up to that feat. CJ Egan-Riley could be set for the exit door, and Burnley are now plotting an ambitious swoop for Liverpool’s Joe Gomez that could total £25 million.

Rennes midfielder Jordan James is also on Scott Parker’s radar. This development may become an ideal trade-off between youth and experience if Josh Brownhill leaves Turf Moor, signalling that there is plenty of work going on behind the scenes in Lancashire.

Burnley now enter race to sign new winger for Parker as talks intensify

Talks are believed to be intensifying over the player in question.

ByHenry Jackson May 26, 2025

The revolving door of transfer speculation never stops and Burnley are now reportedly in the lead to win the race to sign a talented defender with top-flight experience.

Burnley could win the race to sign Chris Mepham

According to Graeme Bailey in conversation with EFL Analysis, Burnley could trump Sheffield United and Sunderland to sign Chris Mepham, potentially on a free transfer with his contract at Bournemouth set to expire at the end of this month.

The Wales international earns £35,000 per week and spent the campaign on loan at the Black Cats, scoring once in 40 appearances as they also claimed promotion via the playoffs.

Chris Mepham’s campaign for Sunderland in numbers – EFL Championship (Fotmob)

Tackles won

31

Aerial duels won

109

Interceptions

34

Recoveries

138

Blocks

3

Dubbed “superb” by Dan Ballard, Bournemouth also have an option to extend his deal for a further 12 months despite his contract being set to run out, though Bailey anticipates that Burnley could skip to the front of the queue in any case.

He stated: “It could be one of those promoted teams. Do we see Burnley coming in for him? They may have to lose Maxime Esteve, and they’ve lost CJ Egan-Riley already. I wouldn’t rule Burnley out of the running on that one.”

Whether Bournemouth do activate his extension clause or not, the Clarets appear to be well in the race to bring Mepham to Turf Moor and he would be an ideal fit given he has made over 60 Premier League appearances across his career.

Crystal Palace have now moved ahead of Leeds United in the race to sign a Championship playmaker, according to a recent report.

Crystal Palace receive UEFA Europa League boost

Not only did the Eagles secure their first major trophy in their history by winning the FA Cup, but they also booked a place in next season’s Europa League. This is unprecedented for Palace, but since that famous FA Cup win, their participation in the Europa League has been under threat due to multi-club rules.

Glasner wants Crystal Palace to sign £40m ace as possible Guehi replacement

Oliver Glasner has identified a defender he would like to bring to Selhurst Park if his captain departs.

ByBrett Worthington Jun 9, 2025

John Textor’s Eagle Football Group also has a controlling stake in French side Lyon. Both clubs are in the Europa League next season, and things heated up this week as Premier League rivals Nottingham Forest wrote to UEFA over an alleged breach of multi-club rules.

However, according to talkSPORT, UEFA don’t see Textor as someone who has a controlling influence at Selhurst Park, and they recognise the value of having the South Londoners in the competition next season due to their FA Cup win. Therefore, as it stands, UEFA are in favour of keeping Palace in the competition.

Crystal Palace ahead of Leeds in race to sign £20m Championship ace

So, as Palace receive a Europa League boost, they can now concentrate on building a squad that is capable of competing in the Premier League as well as Europe. According to the Irish Examiner, relayed by Football League World, Crystal Palace are now leading the race to sign Finn Azaz from Middlesbrough.

The Eagles are looking to bulk their squad up for the 2025/26 campaign and have identified Azaz as a potential target. It’s already been reported that Palace chiefs have been keeping an eye on the attacking midfielder but face competition as Leeds United and AFC Bournemouth have also registered their interest in the Boro man.

The 24-year-old joined Boro in January 2024 for a fee of £2.5 million, and it’s now been claimed that were he to leave the Riverside Stadium, he would cost any team interested around £20 million. Indeed, he is still under contract until the summer of 2028, has been capped seven times by the Republic of Ireland and has just come off the back of a season in which he scored 12 goals and assisted 11 in 45 Championship games.

Apps

45

Starts

43

Goals

12

xG

9.53

Assists

11

xAG

7.62

Big chances created

10

Key passes per game

2.0

It is looking very likely that Palace could lose Eberechi Eze this summer, as he continues to be linked with a move to some of the biggest clubs in England. So, while Azaz won’t be seen as a like-for-like replacement, Oliver Glasner may see him as someone who could help fill the void left by the Englishman.

Chelsea have done it. Enzo Maresca’s side have won the UEFA Conference League, beating Spanish outfit Real Betis 4-1 in Poland.

The Blues have made history in winning the title, becoming the first side to have won all three major European titles currently on offer, a historic achievement for the club.

In terms of the game, it got off to the worst start possible for Chelsea. Their LaLiga opponents took the lead just nine minutes into the clash, with left winger Abdessamad Ezzalzouli firing a well-struck effort into the bottom right corner past goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen.

It took Chelsea until the 65th minute to equalise. Cole Palmer set Enzo Fernandez up with a teasing ball. The Argentine midfielder ran onto his cross and headed home into the bottom left corner to score a crucial goal for his side.

From there, the floodgates opened. First, Nicolas Jackson struck, once again set up by the irresistible Palmer. Second-half substitute Jadon Sancho soon got in on the act to make it 3-1. His strike was sublime, bending a shot from the left-hand corner of the penalty area into the top right corner of the Betis goal.

Moises Caicedo’s strike from distance capped off the night for Chelsea, who were unstoppable once they got into their groove. One of the stars of the show was the scorer of the second goal, Jackson.

Jackson’s performance vs. Betis

When his side needed him most, Blues striker Jackson came up clutch with the goal which won them another European title. It was a hard-working night’s work for the Senegal international, who ran the channels diligently and looked to link up play all night long.

Chalkboard

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His goal, which saw Chelsea take the lead in the game, was a smart finish. The 23-year-old miscued his effort, surely meaning to head Palmer’s cross home, instead bouncing the ball past Adrian off his chest. However, the run was clever, darting into the six-yard box to put the ball in the back of the net.

Jackson’s performance earned him a 7/10 rating from Standard journalist Malik Ouzia. He explained that, whilst the striker did take a ‘hideous touch’ when attempting to seal the deal late on, he ‘repaid the “debt” he owed his team-mates’ with his crucial strike, having missed the final two league games of the season through suspension.

It was certainly an impressive performance from Jackson, stepping up in a European final when his side needed to. However, he was perhaps overshadowed by another of his teammates.

The Chelsea player who outperformed Jackson

Just over 13 years ago, Chelsea legend Didier Drogba inspired his side to a heroic Champions League final comeback against Bayern Munich. He scored an 88th-minute header at the Allianz Arena, before sinking their opponents with the winning penalty in the shootout, to deliver Chelsea the Champions League.

Well, little more than a decade later, Palmer has just put in a performance worthy of rivalling Drogba’s iconic effort. His two assists breathed life into a flat Chelsea side, putting them into a title-winning position.

Those contributions will be remembered for the next decade, just like Drogba’s have been. His first assist was a delicate cross to Fernandez, who rose highest to nod home an inch-perfect cross.

The second was magical, teasing the Betis defenders, twisting on the spot before turning into space and delivering another perfect cross for Jackson to convert.

It was not just the assists that were exceptional from Palmer, but his overall performance. As the stats on Sofascore show, he ranked highly for several metrics on the night.

For example, no player completed more dribbles than his four, nor did they create as many as his two big chances.

Ground duels won

5/8

1st

Dribbles completed

4/6

1st

Assists

2

1st

Big chances created

2

1st

Key passes

2

3rd

Passes completed

32/38

7th

The Chelsea number 20 was so good, he earned himself a 9/10 for his efforts from Ouzia. The journalist was full of praise for Palmer, describing him as a ‘genius’ following the former Manchester City man’s two moments of magic.

So, the Blues have another European title to their name, and with it, another memorable performance from a genuine superstar. Perhaps Chelsea have found their new version of the legendary striker.

Palmer, player of the match, delivering a performance worthy of rivalling Drogba’s heroics 13 years ago. Sensational.

He's shades of Drogba: Chelsea open discussions to sign "the next Mbappe"

Chelsea needs to sign a striker or two this summer

2 ByRoss Kilvington May 27, 2025

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has placed a marquee forward at the “top” of his transfer target list ahead of the summer window, and the Gunners have responded by opening talks between all parties.

Arteta makes "clear" Arsenal transfer claim

Speaking ahead of their final Premier League game of the season against Southampton on Sunday, Mikel Arteta was asked about the club’s recruitment drive, Berta’s crucial role and the type of player he wants to see his club try and go for.

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The Portugal has admitted something to teammates.

1 ByEmilio Galantini May 22, 2025

Kai Havertz has returned to action already, after coming back from what was initially thought to be a season-ending hamstring injury blow, making his first appearance since February during Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Newcastle.

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

The German, who’s still managed to score 15 goals in all competitions in spite of his injury woes, also looks physically transformed after months of work in the gym. However, while Havertz’s return ahead of next season comes as a boost for Arteta, he sent a “clear” message to the Gunners hierarchy that more firepower is required if they’re to mount a more successful title challenge.

“What is clear with the amount of injuries we had in the front line is that we need a goal threat, we need the firepower out there, and understanding that the context can change tomorrow,” said Arteta in a pre-match press conference.

“We cannot rely just on the numbers we had before. We have to add goals, we have to add creativity, we have to add numbers and that will be in different positions.”

Arteta was also asked about their links to Real Madrid star Rodrygo, following recent reports he could well join Arsenal.

The 43-year-old didn’t get drawn in to named targets, but categorically refused to rule out a move for the Brazil international either, who’s bagged 13 goals and a further 10 assists from the right-wing, left-wing and at centre-forward this term.

Rodrygo "top" of Berta list with Arsenal talks opened

Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg shared news of Arsenal working on a deal for Rodryho behind-the-scenes earlier this week, and that same reporter has now provided a further update.

Plettenberg reports that Rodrygo is actually at the “very top” of Berta’s transfer list at Arsenal too, and negotiations have begun at all avenues, presumably meaning that they’re in talks with both the £202,000-per-week forward and Real.

Arsenal are not without competition in the race for him, though, with Chelsea also reportedly holding talks with Rodrygo’s representatives ahead of the mini-transfer window from June 1 to June 10 – which would allow them to sign him before the Club World Cup.

While it could still end in an incredible crescendo of Champions League glory, it wouldn’t be amiss to describe this season as something of a disappointment for Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta’s side were terrible in both the FA Cup and League Cup, and are now at risk of losing their grasp on second place in the Premier League.

Moreover, while the team has underwhelmed as a collective, there have been several players who’ve simply not reached the standards set in the last couple of years, such as Martin Odegaard.

So, with this in mind, it’s not all that surprising to read recent reports linking the club to someone who could be an upgrade on the Gunners captain.

Arsenal transfer news

Before we get to the player in question, it’s worth looking at some of the other midfield stars linked with Arsenal in recent months, such as Frenkie de Jong and Kevin De Bruyne.

Transfer Focus

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

The former has been enjoying a stellar campaign with Barcelona and remains on track for a historic treble-winning season with the Catalan club, so while he’d be an exceptional addition to the club, we imagine he’d cost a king’s ransom, even with reports coming out about his contract talks stalling.

In contrast, we now know Kevin de Bruyne will be leaving Manchester City in the summer, so if Arteta can work his magic, he might just be able to convince the mercurial Belgian to join his former title rivals, and with 14 goal involvements in 36 games this season, he’d still be a useful player to have in the squad.

However, knowing the North Londoners might want to make sure they keep the team young and hungry, which could explain the recent links to Brahim Diaz.

According to a recent report from Spain, Arsenal have identified the Moroccan international as a ‘top priority’ ahead of the summer and that Arteta really wants the club to sign the player he worked with at Manchester City.

The story claims that Real Madrid are willing to let the player leave for a convincing offer, while stories from earlier this year suggest that they’d be after a fee in the region of €60m, which is about £51m.

It would be a costly deal to get over the line, but one worth pursuing, as he could be a perfect upgrade on Odegaard.

How Diaz compares to Odegaard

So, if Arsenal get their man this summer, and he comes in to play more of a midfield role, he’d be in direct competition with Odegaard for that creative number ten role.

With that said, who comes out on top when we compare them?

From a pure output perspective, it is the “incredible” Real ace, as dubbed by Pep Guardiola, who emerges victorious, but only when we look at the minutes-to-goal involvement ratios.

For example, in 49 appearances, totalling 2058 minutes, the Moroccan international has scored six goals and provided seven assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 3.76 games, or far more consequently, every 158.30 minutes.

In contrast, the Norwegian maestro has scored five goals and provided 11 assists in 41 appearances, totalling 3162 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.56 games, but more importantly, every 197.62 minutes.

What about when we take a look under the hood and at their underlying numbers, then? Is it another minor victory for the Champions League winner?

Well, it’s actually a relatively comfortable one for the 25-year-old, as he comes out ahead in most relevant metrics, including but not limited to expected and actual non-penalty goals plus assists, shots and shots on target, passing accuracy, goal-creating actions, successful take-ons and more, all per 90.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.57

0.37

Non-Penalty G+As

0.42

0.34

Progressive Passes

4.62

10.1

Progressive Passes Received

6.99

6.08

Progressive Carries

2.66

3.46

Shots

1.89

1.82

Shots on Target

1.05

0.55

Passing Accuracy

86.7%

82.9%

Key Passes

1.40

2.41

Shot-Creating Actions

3.57

4.86

Goal-Creating Actions

0.84

0.59

Tackles Won

1.26

0.46

Interceptions

0.28

0.17

Blocks

1.12

0.21

Successful Take-Ons

1.54

0.97

Ultimately, while Odegaard remains a talented player, Diaz has outperformed him in just about every metric this season, and if Arsenal can sign him in the summer, they should.

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Glasgow Rangers could be set to see their takeover by the 49ers Enterprises go through by the start of the summer transfer window.

It appears as though it is a matter of when and not if the US-based consortium will arrive at Ibrox, hopefully with plenty of financial investment to help bolster the squad.

There will be several major decisions to make ahead of pre-season. Working out who must stay and who should be sold is going to be crucial ahead of the 2025/26 season for Rangers.

Furthermore, choosing the correct manager to lead the club into this new era could be the most important decision the 49ers make.

Barry Ferguson has been the interim manager since Philippe Clement was given his marching orders a few months ago. He went to get the role on a permanent basis after overseeing just four wins from his ten games in charge at the time of writing, conceding 20 goals in the process.

With the end of the season in sight, the rumour mill has begun with regard to who will be the next manager of the Light Blues.

The managers linked with Rangers

The most surprising name linked with a move to manage the club is José Mourinho. He knows full well about the Ibrox atmosphere having seen his Fenerbahçe side defeated on penalties in the Europa League last month, even congratulating the squad in the dressing room after the game.

According to TEAMtalk, Mourinho would reportedly be keen on making the move to Glasgow, although he would need significant backing from the 49ers that they would provide him with funds to strengthen.

The Portuguese boss might not be at the top of his game compared to his previous successes, but he would certainly be box office.

Former Southampton manager Russell Martin is also a name that has been mentioned regarding the vacant managerial role.

The Scot is reportedly keen on taking over from Ferguson this summer and is reportedly waiting to hear from the hierarchy at the club to discuss a potential move.

Of course, Steven Gerrard has been linked with a return to Ibrox after being sacked by Al-Etiffaq in Saudi Arabia.

This news was once again reported by TEAMtalk. Gerrard knows what it takes to win with the club, having led them to their first league title in a decade during the 2020/21 campaign.

His previous two managerial roles ended poorly, however. They say never go back. Should the club make a move for the former Liverpool icon? Or is time to go in a totally new direction under new owners?

Marco Rose is a name that has been mentioned recently amid the talks of a takeover by the 49ers.

Why Marco Rose could be in contention

Rose was recently sacked by Bundesliga side RB Leipzig after two and a half years in charge.

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The 49ers have a strong relationship with Red Bull and with Rose having managed both RB Salzburg and RB Leipzig during his career so far, the connections are there to be made.

Gretar Steinsson, the 49ers Technical Director, has held discussions with managerial targets across Europe ever since the potential takeover was mooted and this could see the club look in a different direction.

RB Leipzig

2022-25

124

1.85

Borussia Dortmund

2021-22

46

1.85

Borussia Mönchengladbach

2019-21

88

1.61

RB Salzburg

2017-19

114

2.35

Lok Leipzig

2012-13

30

1.2

Via Transfermarkt

Rose worked with Steinsson during his spells in charge of both Salzburg and Leipzig, indicating that there is a prior relationship which could perhaps lead to Rose becoming one of the favourites for the vacant role at Ibrox.

This may just be a coincidence, but given his relationship with the Red Bull Group in recent years, Rose might be getting talked about as a potential new manager in the coming weeks, that’s for sure.

Why Rose could be a great alternative to Gerrard

The Ibrox faithful will forever have a place for Gerrard in their hearts, especially after claiming the Premiership title in 2021.

During his final few months, however, the football wasn’t pretty and the Light Blues were struggling majorly.

Spells at Aston Villa (sacked after less than a year) and Al-Ettifaq (left by mutual consent after 18 months) haven’t exactly done much to further his career after success with the Gers.

The only positive surrounding his potential return is that Gerrard knows the standards expected at Ibrox, meaning he could integrate a lot quicker than, say, Rose or someone else.

The case for Rose is also complicated, although he has managed one of the biggest clubs in Europe – Borussia Dortmund – between 2021 and 2022.

Rangers did defeat his side 4-2 during the knockout stages of the Europa League in the 2021/22 campaign as they set the standards on their way to the final that season.

Prior to that, he claimed two Austrian Bundesliga titles with Salzburg, also going on to win the Austrian Cup but it is his spell with Leipzig which was the longest of his career.

During his debut season, the 48-year-old secured the German Cup, but his Bundesliga placings got worse over his time with the club. Third was secured in 2022/23, before a fourth-place finish last season.

When he was sacked, Leipzig were sitting in sixth place and in danger of missing out on Champions League qualification.

He prefers to use a classic 4-4-2 system, which could be altered in several ways to suit the players at Rangers. Plus, he could be given money to bolster the squad in the transfer market should he join the club.

Scottish scout and analyst Kai Watson has heaped praise on Rose amid his name being mentioned with the job, saying: “I honestly can’t believe there’s snobbery around Marco Rose. Take the Celtic scarf picture out of the equation, claiming that he’s a bad or below average manager is truly a wild statement in my opinion. In profile/stature he’s a level above someone like Gerrard, by a distance.”

Interestingly, Rose has defeated Celtic four times in his managerial career, twice each with Salzburg and Leipzig. Of course, beating them with Rangers is a different challenge altogether, but he knows how to get the better of the Parkhead side.

That could be all the difference.

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