All posts by z3u9t.icu

Tottenham Hotspur are being told to appoint an “influential” manager by incoming chief Fabio Paratici, with current Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou still heading for an exit despite reaching the Europa League final.

Tottenham welcoming Fabio Paratici back after worldwide ban ends

Reports claim that Paratici’s return to Spurs is gaining serious traction, after talks to become AC Milan’s new sporting director reportedly fell through recently.

Paratici could sign £150k-a-week Liverpool player after Tottenham return

The ex-managing director is expected to come back after his worldwide FIFA ban ends.

ByEmilio Galantini May 8, 2025

The 52-year-old was forced to resign from his post as Tottenham managing director in early 2023 after being found guilty of false accounting during his time at Juventus, with FIFA handing Paratici a 30-month worldwide ban from official footballing activity.

Crystal Palace (home)

May 10th

Aston Villa (away)

May 18th

Brighton (home)

May 25th

However, that ban is due to end on June 30th, and it is believed that Paratici is now very likely to make a return to Tottenham after rumoured meetings with Spurs chairman Daniel Levy – which were reported as far back as March.

A popular figure among the fan base, Paratici also played a role in appointing Antonio Conte during his time in N17, and if his comeback is made official, the Italian will likely have a major say on Tottenham’s potential replacement for Postecoglou.

While Spurs eased past Bodo/Glimt to reach their first European final since 2019, where they have a golden chance to clinch their first piece of silverware since 2008, reliable media sources have claimed that Postecoglou could still leave Tottenham regardless of their success abroad (The Telegraph).

Fabio Paratici recommends Roberto De Zerbi to Tottenham

A succession of managers have been linked with the job over the last few weeks, but Paratici has a particular name in mind – compatriot Roberto De Zerbi.

The Italian moved to Marseille after a successful period at Brighton, where he’s now on around £105,000-per-week, with De Zerbi remaining popular among those close to Spurs – specifically Paratici.

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, speaking to The Boot Room, Paratici has recommended De Zerbi to Tottenham, and the chief is believed to be a huge fan.

“I understand Roberto De Zerbi is a name that Fabio Paratici – incoming Spurs technical director – is a fan of,” said Bailey.

“He liked him during his time at Brighton and recommended him. Even during his talks with AC Milan recently, he was a name put forward. De Zerbi is understood to be on the radar of a number of Italian clubs – but Spurs do like him.”

The outlet themselves add that Postecoglou is “set to leave” this summer, and De Zerbi could be a fantastic candidate to replace him, going by the words of Man City boss Pep Guardiola, who called him “one of the most influential managers in the last 20 years”.

“There is no team playing the way they play – it’s unique,” Guardiola said of De Zerbi’s Brighton in 2023.

“I had the feeling when he arrived the impact he would have in the Premier League would be great – I didn’t expect him to do it in this short space of time. He creates 20 or 25 chances per game, better by far than most opponents. He monopolises the ball in a way it hasn’t been for a long time.

“They deserve completely the success they have.”

Tottenham Hotspur have seemingly been offered the chance to sign a noteworthy Chelsea player this summer, and he could prove a very useful addition for Ange Postecoglou or his potential replacement next season.

Tottenham transfer plans amid Ange Postecoglou uncertainty

Spurs are on course for their worst ever Premier League season, resulting in uncertainty surrounding Postecoglou’s long-term future, and reports suggest the former Celtic boss could be shown his P45 regardless of their campaign in Europe (The Telegraph).

Tottenham: Levy now plotting surprise bid for "underrated" West Ham player

It would be a real head-turner.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 30, 2025

A succession of managerial candidates have been tipped to potentially succeed Postecoglou, but as technical director Johan Lange and Daniel Levy assess Spurs’ options in that regard, they must also begin preparations for the summer transfer window.

West Ham (away)

May 3rd

Crystal Palace (home)

May 10th

Aston Villa (away)

May 18th

Brighton (home)

May 25th

Tottenham are reportedly in the market for a forward, and have even been linked with a surprise move for West Ham star Jarrod Bowen this week.

Levy is apparently willing to bid around £51 million to sign Bowen for Spurs, even if this may not be anywhere near enough, but the England international isn’t their only rival player to be mentioned as a possible incoming in the last few days.

Christopher Nkunku holds talks to join Tottenham via agents

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, speaking to The Boot Room, £195,000-per-week Chelsea winger Christopher Nkunku is actively looking to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.

The Frenchman, who’s actually scored 14 goals in all competitions this season, verbally agreed terms over a move to Bayern Munich in January (Florian Plettenberg), and looks set to be one of the many men sold or loaned out by Enzo Maresca’s side when the window reopens.

Bailey writes that, while a move to Europe is more likely, Nkunku’s camp have reached out for talks with Tottenham recently, as the ex-RB Leipzig sensation’s representatives attempt to offer him to a host of clubs.

“I am told that a move to Europe is the most likely option – but his people are touching base with clubs in England,” said Bailey.

“Arsenal, Liverpool, Man United, Newcastle, Aston Villa and Tottenham have all been spoken to in the past few months. Chelsea want to recoup as much of their plus £50m outlay, but that looks difficult at this juncture.

“I am told the player is very happy in London, and so would a move to a Arsenal or Tottenham appeal? I believe it would but as it stands those options are not advanced – but Arsenal and Spurs both have an historic interest in the player. Both want a wide forward, so you could see the fit.

“There is interest back in Germany – Bayern Munich like him, a new deal for Leroy Sane doesn’t rule out them making a move but it is not pressing. Former club RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen also admire him.”

The versatile 27-year-old has displayed real quality on occasion since his switch to London, and was a revelation in the Bundesliga. However, this could prove to be a costly operation, especially for a price around £50 million, not to mention his lofty salary.

With Spurs in for a ‘sell to buy’ summer, as per The Telegraph, these factors may well deter Levy.

Much of the talk at Manchester United is currently centred on the goalkeeping ranks – amid reports that Andre Onana could be on his way this summer – although Sunday’s defeat to Newcastle United also showcased the Red Devils’ woes in an attacking sense too.

As that 4-1 thrashing highlighted, Ruben Amorim’s side are simply starved of quality at the top end of the pitch, with the visitors looking particularly lifeless following the loss of Joshua Zirkzee to injury, alongside the withdrawal of goalscorer, Alejandro Garnacho.

Substitute Rasmus Hojlund, for instance, has still scored just three Premier League goals this season, while the returning Mason Mount has just one goal and one assist to his name in 36 games for United in total.

Having relied on the talents of Amad Diallo during Amorim’s early tenure – with the Ivorian registering 12 goal involvements in 20 games under the Portuguese coach – the Old Trafford side having looked particularly short of ideas since the 22-year-old’s cruel injury blow.

In all, United have scored just 38 goals in 32 league games this season, while the recent Manchester derby marked the 12th time that they have failed to score in a top-flight fixture in 2024/25.

At least one new forward is then the priority this summer – will Wolverhampton Wanderers talisman, Matheus Cunha, be among those to arrive?

Latest on Man Utd's pursuit of Cunha

Tensions are brewing at Molineux regarding the future of their standout Brazilian, with Cunha – who only recently returned from a four-game suspension – having irked the Wolves fanbase following a subsequently deleted Instagram post, in which the 25-year-old stated that he “will follow my dreams, not yours”.

That hint regarding a potential exit has come after the former Atletico Madrid man previously outlined his desire to “take the next step” in his career, with the 14-goal hero signing a new contract back in January which includes a £62.5m release clause.

As reported last week, United could be among the clubs to trigger that clause this summer, with The Athletic outlining that Cunha is among those being considered to play in one of the two number ten berths under Amorim.

The in-demand talent – who is also courting attention from the likes of Newcastle United, Arsenal and Nottingham Forest – notably scored and assisted against United on Boxing Day, having now racked up 39 goal involvements in just 76 Premier League outings to date.

It is clear then why Cunha would represent an attractive addition, even amid his recent disciplinary issues, albeit with there likely to be question marks over how the Red Devils would fund a move, with Amorim outlining that the club will have to sell before they can buy this summer.

The Man Utd flop who could help fund Cunha move

Reports have claimed that there could be more than ten first-team departures at the Theatre of Dreams ahead of next season, with the likes of Christian Eriksen and Victor Lindelof approaching the end of their contracts, while both Tom Heaton and Jonny Evans could be in line for retirement.

There will also be a desire to cash in on those who aren’t currently making an impact under Amorim, with the likes of Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Antony all in need of a permanent new home amid their respective loan moves.

In the case of the latter man, the Brazilian is one of those that INEOS certainly need to send packing after three dismal years in Manchester, with the former Ajax starlet having registered just 12 goals and only five assists in 96 games following his £86m arrival.

Antony

96

12

5

17

Amad

57

12

10

22

Jadon Sancho

83

12

6

18

Alejandro Garnacho

135

25

20

45

Dan James

74

9

9

18

Angel Di Maria

34

4

12

16

Henrikh Mkhitaryan

63

13

11

24

Memphis Depay

53

7

6

13

That grim record represents just what a costly mistake the 24-year-old has proven to be, with club legend Gary Neville describing him as “frustrating at times”, having only shown flashes of what he can do.

In truth, you can almost count on one hand the real high points that Antony has enjoyed in a United shirt, be it his crucial late equaliser in the eventual 4-3 win over Liverpool last season, or his long range stunners against both Barcelona and Real Betis in the Europa League in 2022/23.

That record against LaLiga sides perhaps illustrates why he has now found his feet while turning out for Betis in recent months, with the polarising left-footer looking like a man reborn with eight goals and assists in just 15 games for the Seville outfit.

Such performances are a positive in the sense that it should generate a market for Antony this summer, with the club desperately needing to shift their expensive flop off the wage bill, amid his reported salary of £105k-per-week.

That wage appears even more unjustified when considering that he earns more than what his compatriot, Cunha, is collecting at Molineux, with the Old Gold star taking home £90k-per-week, despite his stellar impact at Premier League level.

As Antony has shown in Spain, there does appear to be a player in there somewhere – albeit, just not a Manchester United one.

He could be their next Rooney: Man Utd submit bid to sign big-money star

Man United could welcome their new Wayne Rooney to Old Trafford this summer.

ByMatt Dawson Apr 14, 2025

Real Madrid are in the unfamiliar position of being underdogs ahead of their Champions League tie against Arsenal, with Los Blancos hoping to overturn a three-goal deficit.

It’s not often that the 15-time European champions are in such a bleak position, but if there is one team in Europe you wouldn’t put a miraculous comeback past, it’s Madrid.

Unfortunately for Arsenal, the Champions League (and the European Cup) has seen plenty of Real comebacks, as if there was any reminder needed that this tie is far from over.

Here, we take a look back at 8 times Real Madrid staged a Champions League comeback when all looked lost.

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ByBarney Lane Feb 12, 2025 1 Real Madrid 6-5 Derby County (aet) 1975/76 European Cup second round

Perhaps Real’s most impressive comeback in European competition, Los Blancos somehow fought back from a 4-1 first-leg defeat to win after extra time at the Santiago Bernabeu.

A hat-trick from ex-Arsenal forward Charlie George appeared to have put English champions Derby County in full control, even when Roberto Martinez (not that one) struck early in the return leg.

But quickfire second-half goals from Martinez and Santillana got Madrid within touching distance, with George’s consolation making little difference.

A late Pirri penalty set up an extra period, where Santillana got the eventual winner to finally put Real in front, 189 minutes into the tie.

2 Real Madrid 3-2 Celtic 1979/80 European Cup quarter-finals

Real were at it again as Celtic looked on the verge of securing a superb result following a 2-0 success at Parkhead.

However, the second leg saw the home side eventually take control, with Santillana’s goal on the stroke of half-time setting up a tense second period.

Following Uli Stielike’s equaliser, Real completed their comeback late on through Juanito’s late header.

3 Real Madrid 4-4 Red Star Belgrade 1986/87 European Cup quarter-finals

Having been 3-0 down at one point in the tie, Real Madrid’s away-goal victory over Red Star Belgrade is well worthy of a mention.

A brace from Hugo Sanchez gave Los Blancos a fighting chance ahead of their home leg, where they didn’t disappoint in front of their supporters.

Emilio Butragueno’s opener got the ball rolling, before a second-half header from Manolo Sanchis gave Madrid the most slender of leads.

Madrid held on to secure another comeback win, but they were beaten by Bayern Munich in the semis.

4 Real Madrid 4-3 Bayern Munich 1987/88 European Cup quarter-finals

Real Madrid got their revenge on the Bavarians a year later, even after lulling the German side into a seemingly safe 3-0 lead.

Los Blancos didn’t get on the scoresheet until 85 minutes into the first leg after a mix-up in the Bayern defence gifted Butragueno what had looked like a valuable consolation.

Real then halved the deficit at the Olympiastadion through Sanchez, allowing them to finish the job on home soil.

Finely taken goals from Milan Jankovic and Michel were enough to see Madrid through to the last four, showing once again that a Bernabeu return leg is something to be feared.

5 Real Madrid 4-1 Atletico Madrid (aet) 2013/14 Champions League final

The modern era has also had its fair share of Madrid comebacks. While Real’s recovery in the 2014 final was not from a huge deficit, it was nevertheless a game where they were moments from defeat.

Diego Godin’s goal looked to have given the La Liga champions a winner that would have secured a first Champions League triumph, but Sergio Ramos’ header deep into added time set up an extra period.

From then on, Real took control with three goals in the second half of extra time. Gareth Bale, Marcelo and Cristiano Ronaldo all scored to seal ‘La Decima’ for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

6 Real Madrid 3-2 Wolfsburg 2015/16 Champions League quarter-finals

Real Madrid were left shellshocked by a 2-0 defeat in Germany to an unfancied Wolfsburg side stuck in mid-table in the Bundesliga.

But Madrid turned around the tie completely within 90 minutes like it was nothing, as Cristiano Ronaldo’s hat-trick gave Los Blancos their quarter-final berth on their way to the trophy in 2016.

Wolfsburg had chances of their own to seal it for themselves, but Ronaldo’s third – a free-kick through the visitors’ wall – handed Real yet another comeback victory.

7 Real Madrid 6-5 Man City (aet) 2021/22 Champions League semi-finals

Real were the absolute epitome of being dead and buried in their semi-final tie with Manchester City in 2022 before miraculously pulling two goals out of nowhere.

City looked set for consecutive Champions League final appearances when Riyad Mahrez had put City in front at the Bernabeu, stretching their aggregate lead to 5-3.

With time ticking into the 90th minute, Rodrygo nipped in for what would surely have been a consolation, with only six added minutes remaining.

Rodrygo only needed one more to improbably level the scores, heading in from Dani Carvajal’s cross.

Karim Benzema then finished City off in extra time as Real Madrid made another Champions League final.

8 Real Madrid 4-3 Bayern Munich 2023/24 Champions League semi-finals

By this point, Real Madrid’s never-say-die attitude in the Champions League was common knowledge, so much so that even with Bayern Munich on the verge of a semi-final victory in 2024, they never truly felt safe.

Madrid had salvaged a first-leg draw thanks to Vinicius Jr.’s penalty, but when Alphonso Davies spectacularly put Bayern in front at the Bernabeu, the Bavarians were favourites to progress to the final.

An unlikely hero in Joselu rescued Real two minutes from time, pouncing on Manuel Neuer’s mistake to level things again.

And just when the sides must have been mentally preparing for extra time, the former Newcastle United striker sent Real to Wembley after a VAR check dramatically allowed his winner to stand, cueing mass celebrations.

Real Madrid would need to perform similar heroics to repeat those scenes against Arsenal, and history seems to hint that anything is possible.

Manchester City certainly don’t do things the easy way. After just 21 minutes of their Premier League clash against Crystal Palace on Saturday, they trailed 2-0.

In the 33rd minute, Kevin De Bruyne grabbed the bull by the horns and curled home City’s first goal of the afternoon. An hour later, they had five and had secured all three points to remain firmly in the mix for Champions League football.

The performance showed Pep Guardiola’s men at their scintillating best, especially throughout the second half, netting three unanswered goals.

While De Bruyne ran the show, January signing Omar Marmoush was also excellent, scoring their equaliser before the interval.

Omar Marmoush’s game in numbers vs Crystal Palace

Since joining from Eintracht Frankfurt, Marmoush has settled into the City side with ease. Across 12 games for the club, he has already racked up seven goals, including a stunning treble against Newcastle United.

With De Bruyne operating in an advanced role through the middle, the 26-year-old offered plenty from the left wing. Indeed, he created a big chance, made two key passes and attempted four dribbles (succeeding with two) against the Eagles.

He may have lost possession 14 times and won only three of his seven total contested duels, but Marmoush looks the real deal at City.

There is no doubt he will have a big part to play next season and bringing him in during the winter window was perhaps Guardiola’s finest decision this season.

Accurate passes

Rúben Dias (105)

Key passes

Kevin De Bruyne (4)

Tackles

Chris Richards and Nico Gonzalez (4)

Ground duels won

Daniel Munoz and Nico Gonzalez (5)

Shots on target

Omar Marmoush (3)

Via Sofascore

It was the performance of another winter arrival yesterday, however, that proves he is now as undroppable as the Egyptian talent – Nico Gonzalez.

Why Nico Gonzalez is now undroppable for Man City

The Spaniard has started seven of City’s eight league games since he made the move from Porto to Manchester, impressing at the heart of the midfield.

Against Palace, not only did the midfielder take 100 touches, controlling the play, but he also succeeded with 95% of his passes – 83 out of 87 – and won seven of his 11 total contested duels throughout the game.

Add in the fact that he made four tackles and lost possession only six times for City. Gonzalez is certainly proving to be an excellent signing, no doubt about that.

Like the Marmoush deal, bringing in the 23-year-old midway through the season will allow him to almost acclimatise to the demands of the Premier League – that might just be a strategy which pays off next season.

Simon Bajkowski, Manchester Evening News journalist, gave the youngster a match rating of 6/10 for his performance, stating that he ‘made some important interceptions’ throughout the game, although he could have avoided his yellow card in the first half.

January was spent bringing in five new faces to the club. On the basis of the performances by Marmoush and Gonzalez, Guardiola’s side will be hoping to end the season on a high note, thus heightening their ambitions that they can reclaim the title next term.

Pep may have found Man City's own Lewis-Skelly in "unbelievable" gem

While Myles Lewis-Skelly continues to impress at Arsenal, Pep Guardiola may have found his own “unbelievable” youngster to deploy at left-back.

Apr 11, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero is being repeatedly linked with an exit this summer, but he could be joined by an “underrated” Spurs teammate.

Cristian Romero attracting Atlético Madrid interest

The Lilywhites face a very real prospect of losing Romero once the transfer window reopens, as reports are suggesting that the Argentine wants to move on for a fresh challenge amid interest from Atlético Madrid.

Contact made: Tottenham targeting "exciting" manager likened to Pochettino

Spurs have reportedly approached his circle.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 2, 2025

As per some media sources, Romero is “pushing” to leave Tottenham, with chairman Daniel Levy postponing talks over a new contract for the 26-year-old as a result (The Boot Room). Meanwhile, others claim that Atlético boss Diego Simeone has reached out to the £165,000-per-week defender in an attempt to entice him with a move to La Liga (Uriel Lugt).

Sky Sports have also backed these reports that interest in Romero from Atlético is there, so the prospect of him departing N17 is seemingly looking more and more possible by the day.

Chelsea (away)

April 3rd

Southampton (home)

April 6th

Wolves (away)

April 13th

Nottingham Forest (home)

April 21st

Liverpool (away)

April 27th

Tottenham are out of both domestic cups and sitting 14th in the Premier League table after 15 top-flight defeats, with a good run in the Europa League coming as their only chance to win silverware and qualify for next season’s Champions League.

Atlético undoubtedly provides the pull of regular European football and the chance to compete for major honours, and the same can certainly be said of their cross-city rivals, with Real Madrid also considering a summer move for Romero.

The former Atalanta star’s exit would be a blow for manager Ange Postecoglou, if he is even in the job by next season, but Romero isn’t the only Spurs player attracting real interest heading into an important summer window.

Tottenham open to selling Richarlison as three clubs plan bid

Injury-ridden striker Richarlison is among the players who could quit Tottenham with Romero, according to journalist Jorge Nicola.

As per the reporter, speaking on his YouTube channel, rumours are surrounding Brazilian Serie A trio Palmeiras, Fluminense and Flamengo are all plotting a bid for Richarlison, who cost Levy £60 million to sign from Everton in 2022.

However, the cost of an operation could prohibit these sides from moving, even if Nicola states that Tottenham are considering the permanent sale of Richarlison from July.

“In the last few hours, speculation has been that Palmeiras, Fluminense and Flamengo are preparing a proposal to buy the player in the middle of the year,” said Nicola.

“The big news on this subject is that Tottenham, very bothered by the center forward’s series of injuries, is considering negotiating him permanently starting in July.

“I can rule out Palmeiras being interested in Richarlison. When Verdão spends 155 million reais to buy Vitor Roque, they stop looking for the player,” he added.

“Even if Tottenham admits a loss and loses, for example €18m, Richardson would still cost €40m. This number is completely out of line with the reality of any football club in Brazil, not to mention Pombo’s salary. Richarlison earns around R$3,900,000 at Tottenham, much higher than the salary of any active player in the country.”

The 27-year-old, called “underrated” by pundit Micah Richards, enjoyed a terrific purple patch of goalscoring form under Postecoglou midway through last season. However, fitness issues have caused him to miss the vast majority of 2024/2025.

After a frustrating campaign, don’t be surprised to see Richarlison follow Romero out the door.

Leeds United’s work during the summer transfer window is naturally going to be called into question with the team currently sat in the relegation zone in the Premier League at the start of December.

Whilst two of their signings, Lukas Nmecha and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, scored in their loss to Manchester City, the summer arrivals have not done enough to keep the side out of the bottom three.

For example, James Justin was brought in as an experienced Premier League defender and was beaten with ease inside the opening minute for Phil Foden’s first goal on Saturday.

Ranking Leeds United's summer signings

Unfortunately, too many of the club’s summer signings have made similar mistakes without providing much quality, at one end of the pitch or the other, to make up for it.

Leeds paid £13.9m to sign goalkeeper Lucas Perri from Lyon to replace Illan Meslier, but he has let in 0.92 more goals than expected and saved just 54% of the shots against him in the Premier League this season, per Sofascore.

Whilst the Brazilian shot-stopper has been one of their worst additions, Sean Longstaff has provided consistency in midfield since his move from Newcastle, leading the team in ‘big chances’ created (six) and key passes per game (1.7).

1

Sean Longstaff

2

Noah Okafor

3

Gabriel Gudmundsson

4

Anton Stach

5

Lukas Nmecha

6

Dominic Calvert-Lewin

7

Lucas Perri

8

James Justin

9

Jaka Bijol

10

Sebastiaan Bornauw

As you can see in the table above, Noah Okafor and Gabriel Gudmundsson rank just below the Englishman with the exciting connection that they have forged together on the left flank.

At the other end of the ranking, though, Jaka Bijol has to be down there because he was dropped for the last two games after his first three starts for the club in the Premier League.

It is, unfortunately, Sebastiaan Bornauw who currently ranks at the bottom of the pile, though, because he looks to be their biggest waste of a signing since Jean-Kevin Augustin.

Why Leeds need to move on from Sebastiaan Bornauw already

The Belgian defender seemed to be a signing that Daniel Farke had a big say in, because he came from Germany, Wolfsburg, and was a transfer target for the manager during his time at Norwich in the summer of 2021.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

This meant that it felt like a long time coming for Bornauw and Farke to finally work together, yet it has not played out that way in the first few months of the season, as the defender has not played a single minute in the league.

Every Leeds fan will be familiar with the story of Augustin’s time at Elland Road, as the club had to pay £24.5m for the player after opting not to go through with an obligation to sign him permanently because he only played 48 league minutes during his time on loan in the 2019/20 campaign.

Man City

Not in squad

Aston Villa

Not in squad

Nottingham Forest

Not in squad

Brighton

Not in squad

West Ham

Not in squad

Burnley

0

Spurs

0

Bournemouth

Not in squad

Wolves

Not in squad

Fulham

Not in squad

Newcastle

0

Arsenal

0

Everton

0

As you can see in the table above, 48 minutes of league football looks favourable in comparison to how Bornauw’s season in the Premier League has gone.

The former Belgium international is out with an injury at the moment, but the Whites boss has left him as an unused substitute in the five top-flight games that he has been available for, despite having wanted to sign the star since 2021.

Bornauw’s only minutes in all competitions came in a loss to Championship strugglers Sheffield Wednesday on penalties in the League Cup back in August, per Sofascore, with the likes of Bijol, Joe Rodon, and Pascal Struijk all ahead of him in the pecking order at centre-back in the league.

At the age of 26, the Belgian defender should be playing regular football and be a first-choice at a club. Instead, he looks set to continue watching on from the bench at Leeds unless something drastically changes in the coming weeks.

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1 ByJoe Nuttall Dec 1, 2025

With this in mind, it may be best for both parties to find a solution in the January transfer window, as the transfer does not seem to have worked out and it has been a bit of a waste of time for the club and the player, as was also the case with Augustin.

West Ham United have made an offer to sign a new defender ahead of the January transfer window and have already received a reply.

West Ham defence among worst in the Premier League

So far in the Premier League, the Hammers have had their fair share of defensive issues under both Graham Potter and now Nuno Espirito Santo.

In fact, the Irons are yet to keep a single clean sheet in their opening 11 top flight fixtures, having the second-worst defence in the division after conceding 23 goals.

Sunderland 3-0 West Ham

West Ham 1-5 Chelsea

Nottingham Forest 0-3 West Ham

West Ham 0-3 Tottenham

West Ham 1-2 Crystal Palace

Everton 1-1 West Ham

Arsenal 2-0 West Ham

West Ham 0-2 Brentford

Leeds 2-1 West Ham

West Ham 3-1 Newcastle

West Ham 3-2 Burnley

Only bottom of the table Wolves have let in more (25), with Nuno selecting Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo at centre-back in recent weeks.

Goalkeeper Mads Hermansen was dropped by Potter early into his first season at the London Stadium, with Nuno continuing to use Alphonse Areola in goal.

£67m spent & no Wilson or Fullkrug: Nuno's dream West Ham XI after January

This is the dream West Ham starting line-up that Nuno could build in the January window.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 15, 2025

If the Irons are to avoid the drop, then clean sheets and defensive stability will need to be worked on over the coming months, with the January transfer window also giving the club the chance to bring in new faces.

Now, it looks as if those behind the scenes at West Ham have their eyes on a defensive gem and have already submitted a bid.

West Ham make £15m+ bid to sign Tiago Gabriel

According to reports in Italy, relayed by Sport Witness, West Ham have made an ‘official offer’ to sign Lecce central defender Tiago Gabriel.

The Hammers’ proposal is thought to be worth €18m (£15.8m), however, this has already been rejected by the Serie A side as they value their 6ft 4 defender at €25m (£22m).

Lecce’s valuation applies to next summer, so it looks as if there is no chance of a January move materialising.

The report adds the 20-year-old has ‘impressed with his on-ground defending and has also been very dominant aerially’, something which can be backed up by FBref as Gabriel ranks in the top 2% of defenders when it comes to aerials won.

Tackles

93rd percentile

Aerials won

98th percentile

Blocks

85th percentile

Clearances

80th percentile

Tackles and interceptions

94th percentile

% of dribblers tackled

99th percentile

Long pass completion

93rd percentile

Also capable of turning out as a right-back if required, Gabriel is under contract at Lecce until 2027, however, both parties have the option to extend that until 2029.

He’s made 11 Serie A appearances in what is proving to be his breakthrough campaign, and by the looks of things, West Ham like what they see.

West Ham flop was compared to Pirlo, now he's "National League standard"

West Ham are looking at signing Fulham winger Adama Traoré in the January transfer window, but they’ve now been told to avoid a deal by someone who’s worked with the player.

Nuno Espírito Santo knows Traore very well from their time together at Molineux, and it was at Wolves where the 29-year-old made a serious name for himself.

Traore was near-unplayable in the 2019/2020 season especially, finishing the Premier League campaign as their best performer statistically, all whilst completing a truly incredible five successful dribbles on average per game (WhoScored).

By comparison, the best dribblers in the Premier League right now are far short of that number, with both ex-West Ham winger Mohammed Kudus and Man City’s Jeremy Doku averaging 3.4 and 3.1 take ons per 90 respectively.

Sunderland 3-0 West Ham

West Ham 1-5 Chelsea

Nottingham Forest 0-3 West Ham

West Ham 0-3 Tottenham

West Ham 1-2 Crystal Palace

Everton 1-1 West Ham

Arsenal 2-0 West Ham

West Ham 0-2 Brentford

Leeds 2-1 West Ham

West Ham 3-1 Newcastle

West Ham 3-2 Burnley

Jurgen Klopp famously branded Traore’s speed as being ‘undefendable’ at times, but that being said, the 19/20 campaign was now over half a decade ago.

Since Nuno’s departure from Wolves, Traore hasn’t managed to re-live those heights on a consistent enough basis, even despite flashes of brilliance at Fulham last term. Traore finished 24/25 with two goals and nine assists in all competitions, making 41 appearances in total, but only managed a modest 1.3 successful take-ons per 90 in the Premier League.

Despite the forward’s best days appearing behind him, the obvious link to Nuno has prompted multiple reports that West Ham are keen on a winter move for Traore, who could also be available for a cut-price fee given his contract expires in 2026.

Following these claims, ex-Everton and Aston Villa CEO Keith Wyness has explained exactly why West Ham need to swerve a deal for Traore this January.

West Ham told exactly why they need to swerve Adama Traore deal in January

Speaking to Football Insider, after having sold the player at Villa, Wyness explains that Traore’s lack of end product really doesn’t serve West Ham in the slightest — urging David Sullivan not to do a deal for the ex-Barcelona man out of respect for the fans.

The winger would attract mixed reviews if he did move to the London Stadium in two months, but if anyone can get the best out of him, it is definitely Nuno.

West Ham’s manager is believed to be personally keen on a reunion with Traore, and given how Nuno has finally managed to steady the ship with back-to-back victories, it is imperative that the club show faith by backing him with desired signings mid-season.

As well as Traore, West Ham want a new defender, midfielder and striker, with AC Milan’s Santiago Gimenez and Al-Ahli’s Ivan Toney rumoured to be on their agenda.

It’s been a confusing month or so for Chelsea fans.

One week, the Blues are beating Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur, and then the next, they’re losing to Sunderland or dropping points against Qarabağ.

However, while Enzo Maresca’s side are far from consistent at the moment, it is full of sensational talent.

In fact, there is at least one player who feels destined to become one of the best in the world, alongside Cole Palmer.

Chelsea's world-class stars

While it doesn’t feel like it at the moment, Chelsea are blessed with several players who could become some of the very best in the world in their position, if they aren’t already there.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

For example, while Moises Caicedo had a slow start to life in West London, he is now one of, if not the best six, in the Premier League.

The Ecuadorian is a monster when it comes to winning the ball back, has an underrated range of passing and can score his fair share of bangers.

Another star who is arguably the best in his position in the league is Reece James.

The Cobham gem is no longer suffering from injury after injury and, as a result, has been able to show the full extent of his exceptional ability on a consistent basis.

For example, in addition to being rock solid at the back, he is a genuine attacking threat due to both his impressive passing range and ball-striking ability.

Finally, while he’s out injured at the moment, Palmer is without doubt on his way to becoming one of the best players in the world.

He is the one who makes the Blues’ attack click, and in just 101 appearances for the club has already racked up a tally of 45 goals and 29 assists.

With all that said, there is another young Chelsea star who looks like he could be following in Palmer’s footsteps.

The Chelsea star on track to be one of the best in the world

While there are several exciting youngsters at Chelsea, like Jorrel Hato, Jamie Gittens, and even Alejandro Garnacho, the one who seems destined for the very top is, of course, Estevao.

The highly promising Brazilian gem was signed by Chelsea last year, but due to regulations surrounding players under 18, he was unable to join the club until this season.

However, it looks like that extra year in his homeland has done him the world of good, as so far this season, he has looked every bit the “future Ballon d’Or winner” respected analyst Ben Mattinson described him as.

Appearances

83

Minutes

5610′

Goals

27

Assists

15

Goal Involvements per Match

0.50

Minutes per Goal Involvement

133.57′

For example, he was arguably the Blues’ most exciting player in pre-season and injected some real life into the side when he came on in the season opener against Crystal Palace.

Then, when Palmer picked up an injury ahead of the West Ham game, Maresaca handed the youngster his first competitive start, and he looked incredible.

The Franca-born gem was running rings around the East Londoners and even picked up his first assist after a mazy run.

Amazingly, his first goal for the club came in that incredible 2-1 win over Liverpool last month.

He then quickly followed that up with a goal against Ajax in the Champions League and another against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the League Cup.

As if he hadn’t already made his mark on the team, he then scored his second UCL goal against Qarabağ.

In doing so, he became the first South American 18 or under to score in consecutive Champions League matches.

Ultimately, while it is still so early in his career, it certainly feels like Estevao is on the same trajectory as Palmer and will soon join him as one of the best players in the world.

Big-money Chelsea flop is fast becoming their new Danny Drinkwater

Chelsea have a new Danny Drinkwater on their books.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 7, 2025