Liverpool are considering a move for a “sensational” attacking midfielder this summer, and he is now keen to hold talks about a move to Anfield, according to a report.
Reds eyeing Wirtz alternatives as race heats up
Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz could well be on the move this summer, and it is looking like the transfer saga could be one of the most talked-about of the summer, with a number of Europe’s top clubs lining up for the German.
Bayern Munich and Manchester City have also expressed an interest in Wirtz, although there have been suggestions that Pep Guardiola’s side have now cooled their interest, amid concerns a deal could be too expensive.
The Reds are pushing hard to sign the 22-year-old, but there are also some alternative options in mind, with River Plate’s Franco Mastantuono and RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons among the potential options, and Arne Slot is believed to be driving the deal for his compatriot.
Sky Sports: Liverpool may sell "amazing" £50m player after transfer twist
He played in the 3-2 defeat away to Brighton on Monday night.
ByHenry Jackson May 20, 2025
A report from TEAMtalk has now provided a new update on Liverpool’s interest in Simons, stating they are considering a move for the attacking midfielder as a potential alternative to Wirtz, and there is a feeling he could be open to heading to Anfield.
The Leipzig star is keen to hold talks over joining the Reds, and he could be a more affordable option than the Leverkusen man, as the asking price is expected to be around £60m.
Leipzig are open to selling the Dutchman this summer, should they receive a suitable fee, which will come as welcome news to Slot, who is known to be an admirer of the 22-year-old’s technical quality and maturity.
Van Dijk lauds "very talented" Simons
Slot is not the only key Liverpool figure who is a big fan of the “sensational” Netherlands international, with Virgil van Dijk also taking the time to praise him last year, saying: “He is a very talented player who has so much to give,”
“He can still be so much better than he is already but he has a good mentality, so I am not worried that won’t happen. I am confident in him.”
The Amsterdam-born attacker’s quality is underlined by his output in Germany during the 2024-25 campaign, regularly chipping in with goals and assists despite a disappointing season for Leipzig, who finished seventh in the Bundesliga.
Competition
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Bundesliga
25
10
7
DFB-Pokal
3
1
1
Wirtz outperformed his Bundesliga rival numbers-wise, collecting six more assists, but it was recently suggested that a deal for the Germany international could amount to €300m (£253m) all-in, potentially making him unattainable for the Reds.
At just £60m, Simons has proven he could be a fantastic alternative to Wirtz, so it is promising news that he is keen on talks about a move to Anfield.
Aston Villa missed out on Champions League football for next season with a controversial 2-0 defeat against Manchester United at Old Trafford yesterday.
Amad Diallo and Christian Eriksen’s goals in the second half secured the win for Ruben Amorim’s side, confining Unai Emery’s men to Europa League football.
The Villans were handed an uphill task after goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez was given a straight red card after taking out Rasmus Hojlund after Matty Cash’s under-hit back pass.
However, the result could’ve been different for Emery’s men, after Morgan Rogers was adjudged to have fouled goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, leading to the club making a complaint to the Premier League over the officiating decisions.
Despite the defeat and the questionable decisions made by the officials, numerous players failed to deliver, leaving the club with some big decisions to make during the off-season.
Aston Villa’s poor performers against Man Utd
As previously mentioned, goalkeeper Martinez made a huge mistake that handed Villa a tricky task to try and claim all three points against the Red Devils.
The Argentine has been linked with a move away from the West Midlands in recent weeks, meaning that his disappointing display at Old Trafford may be his last for the club.
However, he wasn’t alone in producing a disappointing display, with left-back Ian Maatsen struggling to impress, even giving away the penalty for Eriksen’s goal.
His poor showing didn’t stop there, losing possession a staggering 13 times, whilst also losing 100% of the ground duels he entered, looking way off the pace and contributing to the defeat.
Both will likely be frustrated with their lack of impact, but despite their respective outings, one other player massively struggled, with Emery needing to make a bold decision on his future.
The 5/10 Villa star who needs to be sold this summer
After missing out on the Champions League, Villa now have a huge summer ahead of themselves to prevent breaking the Premier League’s strict PSR rules.
Aston Villa manager UnaiEmerybefore the match
The club have had to make sales over the last couple of summers, with this one likely to follow in the same vein given the failure to secure a place in Europe’s biggest competition.
Martinez is just one player touted with a move away from Villa Park, with midfielder Rogers another star who could see his future lie away from the club.
However, Emery must boldly sell fellow first-team member Ollie Watkins this summer, needing to cash in on the 29-year-old whilst his stock is at its highest.
He was subject to interest from Arsenal during the January transfer window, but the hierarchy rejected offers for their talisman, enabling him to play a key role in their Champions League aspirations.
However, his showing at Old Trafford was nothing short of a disappointment, failing to deliver the goods and once again going missing in a key encounter.
The England international featured for the entirety of the contest, registering just 21 touches – the fewest of any player who started the game – highlighting his lack of impact.
Minutes played
90
Touches
21
Shots taken
0
Dribbles completed
1/2 (50%)
Duels won
5/15
Passes completed
6/15 (40%)
Possession lost
12x
He also failed to register a single effort on goal and only completed 50% of his dribbles, further highlighting how poor he was when the ball fell his way.
Watkins’ disappointing showing didn’t end there, only winning five of the 15 duels he entered, often being dominated by the Red Devils’ backline in the defeat.
As a result, the striker was handed a measly 5/10 match rating by Birmingham World’s Charlie Haffenden – further demonstrating how poor he was yesterday.
After such a showing, the manager should look to offload him during the off-season, handing the opportunity for another player to thrive at the top end of the pitch.
Given the current financial situation, the hierarchy will face over the coming months, Watkins should be the first player sacrificed, offering Emery the chance to mount another Champions League push next season.
Their next McGinn: Aston Villa enter the race to sign £30m "top talent"
Aston Villa could strengthen their midfield this summer by signing this star.
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.
Manchester City are set to be in the market to bolster their squad when the summer transfer window officially opens for business in the coming months.
The Cityzens dropped points once again in the Premier League as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Southampton, who had 11 points in the top-flight heading into the game.
Pep Guardiola’s side have already missed out on the Premier League title, though, and that may be why the club are eager to bring in fresh recruits, with a fresh report detailing their interest in a Serie A star.
Manchester City make Serie A star a serious target
According to The Telegraph, Manchester City are interested in a deal to sign Tijjani Reijnders from Italian giants Milan in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The report claims that the Cityzens have made the Netherlands international a ‘serious’ target to come in and bolster their options in the middle of the park, as they aim to revitalise the squad.
It also reveals that Milan would want a club-record fee for the central midfielder, which means that it will be in excess of the £57m they once raked in from Real Madrid for Brazilian icon Kaka.
Manchester City should, now, splash the cash to sign the Dutch talent because he could come in as a big upgrade on Ilkay Gundogan in the middle of the park.
Why Reijnders would be a better option than Gundogan
Guardiola swooped to bring the German midfielder back to The Etihad, after a one-year stint at Barcelona, last summer, and it has been a difficult season for the veteran, who has failed to live up to the standards he set in his first spell at the club.
Gundogan had hit double figures for goals in each of his last three seasons at City, combining for 38 goals, but has only produced two goals and five assists in 47 matches in all competitions upon his return.
Reijnders, meanwhile, has racked up 15 goals in 51 matches for Milan in all competitions this season, including three goals in ten outings in the Champions League.
He has provided a regular goal threat from the middle of the park for the Serie A giants, whilst Gundogan is heading into the final two matches of the league campaign without a goal to his name in the Premier League.
24/25 season
Reijnders (Serie A)
Gundogan (Premier League)
Appearances
35
31
xG
6.42
2.74
Goals
10
0
Big chances missed
3
6
Big chances created
7
3
Assists
4
5
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, Reijnder has scored ten more goals, despite missing half as many ‘big chances’, and has created more ‘big chances’ for his teammates in midfield.
These statistics suggest that the 26-year-old star, whose performances were described as “insane” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has the attacking quality to be miles better than Gundogan for City by offering a consistent threat at the top end of the pitch.
Girona'sYangelHerrerain action with AC Milan's Tijani Reijnders
The Milan star has also won 63% of his ground duels, compared to Gundogan’s 48%, and could also offer more to the Cityzens out of possession as a strong midfield presence by winning a higher percentage of his battles with opposition midfielders to regain or retain the ball.
It is now down to City to strike a deal with the Italian team because Reijnders appears to have the quality to be miles better than the German midfielder for Guardiola next season and beyond.
Instant Marmoush upgrade: Man City targeting "world class" £85m star
Leeds United fans will be praying Daniel Farke can be the manager in the Elland Road dug-out to consolidate the Whites as a Premier League regular again, but they won’t be holding their breath.
After all, there was even talk this off-season that the German could reportedly be relieved of his duties, with his worrying track record in the top division – as seen in his one relegation with former side Norwich City – meaning he could be in too deep on his return again.
The Whites hierarchy have admirably stuck by the promotion-winning expert, though, with a barrage of transfers now needed to give the ex-Canaries boss his best chance at remaining put in the Premier League with his current employers.
Leeds now targeting £10m-rated ace
Whilst the West Yorkshire titans would storm to the Championship title with a club-record 100 points, improvements need to be made all over the pitch to make the gulf in quality feel less stark.
Already, Farke and Co. have been linked with moves for Emiliano Buendia, Tammy Abraham and Kalvin Phillips to significantly bolster their squad, but it’s in the goalkeeper department where the Whites are crying out for their most pressing upgrade.
It has now been widely reported that Illan Meslier will be ditched as Leeds’ first-choice stopper in the big time after one too many error-strewn performances in the second-tier, with the Daily Mail Online following this up with a report that Newcastle United ‘keeper Nick Pope is now on their agenda as they hunt down a new number one.
With a move for Caoimhin Kelleher also falling by the wayside, Pope could be the next best thing for Farke’s men, with the Magpies perhaps now ready to offload their £10m-rated figure amidst interest in Burnley’s James Trafford.
Why signing Pope is a must for Leeds
With Phillips available for around the same £10m price tag, it could end up being a toss-up between Pope and the former fan favourite.
Well, when assessing which transfer is most needed, it’s a no-brainer that Leeds must prioritise picking up the 6-foot-6 ‘keeper over a sentimental Elland Road return for the midfielder.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Leeds could well look a little light on their feet centrally when making the step-up, with Joe Rothwell returning back to parent side AFC Bournemouth this summer, but the Whites are in dire need of a solid pair of hands in between the sticks over urgently requiring any midfield additions.
After all, away from Meslier nearly costing his team dear last campaign with three errors directly leading to goals, the ex-Lorient stopper has struggled in the intense environment of the Premier League previously.
Meslier’s PL record vs Pope’s
Stat
Meslier
Pope
Games played
107
221
Saves made
377
687
Goals conceded
198
252
Clean sheets
21
73
Wins
32
86
Losses
50
71
Stats from the Premier League
The table above highlights the 25-year-old’s struggles in the big time compared to the more comfortable Pope, with Meslier only keeping a meagre 21 clean sheets from 107 top-flight outings next to the Magpies’ number 22 collecting a sturdier 73.
Away from just their clean sheet numbers, Pope has also shown he can cut it at the level over a prolonged time, even as Eddie Howe and Co’s aspirations have changed from being a middle of the road outfit to a Champions League challenger, with a bumper 86 wins sticking out from his 221 Premier League clashes and counting.
Therefore, the “phenomenal” Pope – as he’s been previously praised by ex-Toon goalkeeping great Shay Given – would easily displace Meslier on his arrival to West Yorkshire.
Whereas, it’s not a given that Phillips would be able to shake up things centrally, with faces such as Ao Tanaka and Ilia Gruev likely getting the immediate nod over the Manchester City flop.
Having already suffered a relegation with the Whites too, it just feels like Leeds would be sleepwalking into another disaster if Meslier were kept in between the sticks.
Whereas, with the 33-year-old coming in as the new number one instead, the confidence levels would be increased that Farke and Co. could put up a stern fight to beat the drop.
A bigger coup than Buendia: Leeds looking to sign "exceptional" £10m star
Leeds United would pull off a bigger coup than landing Emiliano Buendia by signing this exceptional midfielder.
Arsenal are now in “advanced” talks to sign a marquee player ahead of interest from Premier League champions Liverpool, with new sporting director Andrea Berta reportedly making an eventful start to life as Edu’s successor.
Mikel Arteta's future questioned after trophyless Arsenal season
Discounting the Community Shield, it has been five years since Arsenal last won a major trophy.
Arsenal risk Huijsen repeat after Zubimendi update involving Real Madrid
The Gunners have already been hijacked by La Liga’s heavyweights.
ByEmilio Galantini May 16, 2025
Mikel Arteta guided them to FA Cup glory during the COVID pandemic in 2020, clinching a piece of silverware amid his first campaign in charge of the club, but there has been precious little in the way of honours since then.
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
You can make a serious argument that this is largely down to Man City’s invincibility over the last few years, barring this campaign, with Arsenal racking up a brilliant 89 points last term only for Pep Guardiola’s side to eventually take all the plaudits.
As per the above table, Arsenal have invested significantly in the squad, and some debate is even beginning to arise over whether Arteta is the right manager to end the club’s two-decade-long-plus wait for a league title.
Arsenal manager MikelArtetalooks dejected after the match
They’ve undoubtedly evolved into an elite-level side under Arteta’s tenure, as their run to the Champions League semi-finals highlights, so reports of a potential exit for the 43-year-old have been few and far between, with the consensus being that Arsenal are continuing to show faith in him.
“It’s a great achievement, in 2025, to not win a trophy for five years and still be the manager at a top club that isn’t under pressure – from us, from anybody in the football community or even anyone in the Arsenal fanbase,” said Sky pundit Gary Neville.
“That’s an incredible achievement because we thought those days were gone whereby you can have this type of patience being afforded to you. I think it’s a good thing: normally with five years without a trophy you’d ordinarily see a manager be under pressure.
“That’s significant in that you think there is progression.”
Arsenal in advanced talks to sign Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres
However, this may not last for long if Arsenal don’t end their trophy drought soon, and Berta has every intention of backing Arteta with key signings that will reinforce the squad and hand Arteta the best possible chance of achieving glory. Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres is a top target, according to widespread reports.
Sporting Club's Viktor Gyokeres.
The “massively underrated” Sweden international appears destined to leave Sporting after a haul of 50 goals in all competitions, and some media sources suggest Arsenal have already offered him personal terms worth £135,000-per-week to join them (A Bola).
Now, CaughtOffside shares some more intriguing news about the saga. The outlet reports that Arsenal’s talks to sign Gyokeres are at an “advanced” stage, and they are currently leading the chase for his signature ahead of both Liverpool and Man United.
Arteta’s side are apparently closing in on a five-year deal for the striker, but CO claim it is actually worth around £9 million-per-year, rather than the previously mooted £7 million.
While Liverpool and United are still contending, it is reiterated that Arsenal are in pole position, with the ex-Coventry City star, who has an £84 million release clause in his contract, seemingly nearing a return to England.
Leeds United are reportedly in pole position to sign a £20m+ attacker who Chelsea wanted to sign last year.
Leeds on the search for attacking additions in Premier League
The Whites are yet to make their first signing of the summer transfer window following promotion to the Premier League, despite the 49ers promising a busy market.
Talking after their Championship title win, chairman Paraag Marathe said that the club would “spend to be competitive in the Premier League”.
Joe Rodon
Tottenham
£10m
Largie Ramazani
Almeria
£10.5m
Jayden Bogle
Sheffield United
£5m
Ao Tanaka
Fortuna Dusseldorf
£2.95m
Isaac Schmidt
FC St Gallen
£2.5m
Alex Cairns
Salford
Undisclosed
Joshua Guilavogui
N/A
Free
Manor Solomon
Tottenham
Loan
Joe Rothwell
Bournemouth
Loan
Daniel Farke and those behind the scenes at Elland Road have a lot to do before 2025/26 season, and attacking additions are required in Yorkshire.
A new number 10 is wanted with Emiliano Buendia, Gus Hamer and Gabriel Sara all linked with moves to Leeds in recent weeks, whereas it remains to be seen if winger Manor Solomon will return on a permanent basis from Tottenham.
Leeds make contact to sign free agent star who scored 23 goals this season
The Whites are looking for some attacking flair after claiming promotion to the top-flight.
BySean Markus Clifford Jun 2, 2025
When it comes to a new striker, Leeds have had their reservations over Championship Golden Boot winner Joel Piroe and the experienced Patrick Bamford, leading to rumours of a new centre-forwards arriving.
Forwards with Premier League experience such as Callum Wilson and Jamie Vardy have been mooted as targets, and there has been a new Leeds update on another attacking addition.
Leeds in pole position to sign £20m+ Christantus Uche
According to reports from SER journalist Jose David Palacio, relayed by MOT Leeds News, Leeds are in pole position to sign Getafe attacker Christantus Uche.
The La Liga ace is looking to leave his current employers, and alongside the Whites, Brentford are also at the front of the queue for Uche, who has a £21m release clause in his current contract.
The Nigeria international is primarily an attacking midfielder but can also drop deeper as a central midfielder or turn out slightly further forward as a second striker. At the age of 22, Uche has a career-high €8m Transfermarkt valuation and has been catching the eye over the last 12 months, with Chelsea making contact over a deal last year.
As can be seen, Uche, who actually doesn’t have a weak foot, has had quite the rise in recent years, playing amateur football at the age of 19, but by the looks of things, a move to the Premier League with Leeds could now be on the cards.
A whopping 102 days on from Philippe Clement’s sacking at Ibrox in February, Rangers finally have their man.
On Thursday morning, Russell Martin was unveiled as the 20th permanent manager in Rangers’ 153-year history, and he has a big job on his hands.
Southampton manager Russell Martin.
His first competitive fixture in charge of the Gers, coming up on 22/23 July, will be a big one, as his new team face a Champions League qualifier, ten days before the start of the new Premiership campaign.
The identity of their opponents will be confirmed on 18 June.
So, with plenty of work to do before then, we look at a dream line-up Martin could field when he takes charge at Ibrox for the very first time next month.
1 GK: Liam Kelly
One of the first major decisions Martin will have to make straight away is picking a number one goalkeeper.
After arriving in 2023, Jack Butland was the undisputed first-choice for so long, starting 100 of 109 matches across all competitions, that is until a string of errors saw him dropped by Barry Ferguson back in April.
Thus, Liam Kelly came in for the Europa League quarter-final against Athletic Club, memorably saving Álex Berenguer’s late penalty in front of the Broomloan Road Stand, preserving a goalless draw on the night.
Thus, Kelly concluded the campaign as the number one, doing very little to suggest he was not worthy of that jersey, meaning the gloves are currently his to lose, even if Butland will certainly fight for his place.
2 RB: James Tavernier
James Tavernier is a bona fide Rangers legend, having made 513 appearances since arriving from Wigan Athletic a decade ago; only ten men have featured on more occasions for the club than the current captain.
Now 33 years old, his position did come under some scrutiny last season, hence why interim boss Ferguson trialled him as both a wing-back and a right-sided centre-back in a three.
Nevertheless, in Martin’s system that prioritises possession, Tavernier will be able to operate high-and-wide, providing him with a platform to get back to his best.
3 CB: Harry Darling – new signing
Rangers surely need to bolster their centre-back options this summer, so could they sign a player the new boss knows rather well?
Robin Pröpper did not impress much after arriving a year ago, while Leon Balogun cannot be relied upon week in week out, as he’s now 36 years old, so could Harry Darling be the new central defender the Light Blues are looking for?
The 25-year-old played for Martin at Milton Keynes, before he also signed him after joining Swansea City, which is where Darling has been ever since, making 112 appearances to date for the Welsh EFL Championship outfit.
Reports have suggested that Martin would like Rangers to make a move for Darling this summer, who is out of contract in South Wales, thereby available for free, so could the prospect of reuniting with his former boss once more convince him to choose a move to Govan?
4 CB: John Souttar
John Souttar
Alongside, John Souttar was indisputably Rangers’ best defender last season, with Scotland captain Andy Robertson describing his performances as “unbelievable” and “different class”, adding that he “showed his quality”, following the Dark Blues’ 2-1 victory over Poland in Warsaw in November.
The 28-year-old, who has endured such horrendous luck with injury throughout his career, suffering two anterior cruciate ligament injuries, managed to start 38 games in all competitions last season, racking up over 3,400 minutes, the most in a single campaign of his entire professional career.
Thus, Souttar was a reliable figure, both in terms of performance and availability, so should be a central pillar for Martin.
5 LB: Rıdvan Yılmaz
Ridvan Yilmaz
Left-backs Rıdvan Yılmaz and Jefté appeared to have some sort of timeshare agreement last season, but most would agree which of the pair impressed more.
The Türkiye international did have to deal with various injury issues throughout the campaign, but did impress when available, with then-manager Ferguson stating “he’s become a big player”, adding “he’s one player I can rely on”.
Still only 24 years old, Yılmaz has the potential to get even better too, so he can be trusted to start on the left side.
6 CM: Metinho – new signing
According to widespread reports, including by the Daily Record, Rangers are interested in signing midfielder Metinho, claiming that the 22-year-old is valued at £5m by his parent club Troyes, who are owned by the City Football Group.
The defensive midfielder spent the second half of last season on loan at Basel, helping the RotBlau win the Swiss Super League and Coupe de Suisse double, starting as they beat FC Biel-Bienne in the final of the latter in Bern last Sunday.
He has previously been nicknamed ‘the Brazilian Paul Pogba’ due to their stylistic similarities, while Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout believes he is “very talented”, suggesting Metinho would be worth spending £5m on.
7 CM: Nicolas Raskin
Rangers’ Player of the Season, and rightly so, was Nicolas Raskin, so keeping hold of the Belgian international this summer will be vitally important.
Former manager Philippe Clement stated recently that his compatriot “would fit perfectly in the Premier League”, with Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider having previously documented Leeds United’s interest, following their promotion.
Nevertheless, if the Gers harbour any hopes of negotiating Champions League qualifying, and ultimately wrestling the title away from Celtic, they simply cannot afford sell the Belgian.
8 CM: Mohamed Diomandé
Mohammed Diomande
Another Rangers midfielder earning admiring glances from south of the border is Mohamed Diomandé, with TEAMtalk claiming that Everton are one of six Premier League outfits chasing the Côte d’Ivoire international’s signature.
The 23-year-old racked up 54 appearances across all competitions last season, scoring six times, including in the League Cup Final against Celtic, as well as during the 4-1 Europa League demolition of Nice by the French Riviera.
Ivory Coast manager Emerse Faé praised Diomandé’s “great season”, with the midfielder having become a regular for les Éléphants during the last year, so he is one Martin will want to build around.
9 RW: Largie Ramazani – new signing
In search of greater attacking firepower, could Rangers’ new owners use their connections to get this deal over the line?
49ers Enterprises have now completed their takeover of Rangers, and they also own Leeds United, with Paraag Marathe the Chairman at Elland Road.
Thus, according to reports, they are planning to use this connection to make a move for Largie Ramazani, who is expected to leave Leeds this summer, having seen only 963 minutes of action during his debut campaign in West Yorkshire, starting a mere 17 EFL Championship fixtures.
Before that however, the winger had impressed at Almería, with Karim Bouaicha of Breaking the Lines describing him as a breakout star in La Liga, adding that he possesses the quality to perform at a “high level” in one of Europe’s best leagues, hence why Leeds paid a reported £10m to sign him in the first place, but could Rangers secure a cut-price deal?
10 ST: Jamie Vardy – new signing
In potentially one of the blockbuster signings of the summer, could Jamie Vardy be heading north of Hadrian’s Wall?
Now 38 years old, the striker has left Leicester City, having scored exactly 200 goals in 500 appearances for the Foxes, very aesthetically pleasing numbers for fans of symmetry, with whom he won the Premier League title and the FA Cup.
Now, reports, via the Daily Mail, claim that Rangers are one of the clubs in contention to sign Vardy and, despite his age, he’d surely score a bucket load of goals in Scotland.
Everything now rests on Manchester United lifting the Europa League in Bilbao to salvage some pride.
The Red Devils’ abysmal domestic season in the Premier League – away from potential European success – continued last time out versus Chelsea, with Enzo Maresca’s Blues dishing out a dire 18th loss of the league campaign.
A major revamp is needed at Old Trafford this summer, therefore, with Ruben Amorim needing to get this summer’s vital transfer window spot on.
Man United's busy summer ahead
It won’t just be hectic with a whole load of incomings entering through the door, with reports suggesting that Rasmus Hojlund could be on his way out of the Theatre of Dreams alongside Marcus Rashford.
Transfer Focus
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But, away from ongoing talk involving who will be leaving the red half of Manchester, and the excitement levels begin to be raised, with both Matheus Cunha and Viktor Gyokeres routinely linked to Amorim’s men to spice up the attacking personnel.
The flashy names being linked don’t stop there though, with a new report from journalist Graeme Bailey revealing that United hold ‘substantial interest’ in 17-year-old River Plate hotshot Franco Mastantuono and have held talks with the player’s representatives this week.
This could be a tricky deal to get done this summer, however, with United having to fork out a high £38m to activate the South American’s release clause, amidst additional interest from the likes of Real Madrid, Liverpool and various other keen onlookers.
How Mastantuono could be Man United's own Lamine Yamal
If United were successful in their pursuit of the enthralling teenager, Amorim and Co could be about to land their very own version of Barcelona superstar Lamine Yamal, with the Argentine winger also making insane waves in his native country.
Much like Yamal at the Camp Nou, Mastantuono has been heavily in the spotlight at River Plate from a very early age.
After all, the Buenos Aires-born attacker is immortalised forever now into the South American club’s rich history, with Mastantuono going down as the team’s youngest ever goalscorer when firing home a strike last year at just 16 years of age.
He hasn’t looked back since that landmark goal, with the left-footed ace now up to seven goals and nine assists in the senior team at River Plate, which included a sublime free-kick finding the back of the net against arch rivals Boca Juniors back in April.
Yamal – who operates down the same right-hand side as Mastantuono – is way out ahead with 24 goals and 34 assists next to his name in Hansi Flick’s starting XI in Spain, but it’s undeniable how similarly electric the two young attackers are, considering the amount of havoc they are both capable of with their dynamite left foot.
Youngsters handed first-team debuts this season by Amorim
Player
Age at debut
Ayden Heaven
18
Chido Obi-Martin
17
Harry Amass
18
Tyler Fredricson
20
Sourced by Transfermarkt
Heading to Old Trafford could also be a worthwhile environment for Mastantuono if he wants to advance his game, with a whole host of youngsters developed at the Red Devils for some time now handed their first senior opportunities this campaign under Amorim.
Moreover, the Portuguese boss has also taken a shine to Amad Diallo since arriving, meaning the “crazy” 5 foot 10 attacker – as he’s been labelled by Thierry Henry – could stand a chance at immediate first-team action with both the Ivorian and the South American blistering in style down the right flank.
FrancoMastantuonoduring the match
Winning such a sought-after starlet could also boost United’s reputation after such a harrowing 2024/25 campaign, with Amorim’s approach of shifting on deadwood allowing the Red Devils to hopefully enter into a new era spearheaded by some immense future talents.
Amorim's own Wirtz: Man Utd chasing "future Ballon d'Or winner"
Man United are ready to make wholesale improvements in the transfer market this summer.
Compared to their nearest competitors, this has been a quiet transfer window so far over at the Emirates Stadium for Arsenal.
Did you expect anything less? While Manchester City have spent a shedload on Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Tijjani Reijnders, Manchester United have added Matheus Cunha to their ranks.
Matheus Cunha
Over in Merseyside, Premier League winners Liverpool have already confirmed the arrival of Jeremie Frimpong to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold. Florian Wirtz is also set to arrive from Bayer Leverkusen in a British transfer record £116m fee too.
So, Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta better whack out the cheque book soon with plenty of new recruits needed, particularly in attack.
The latest on Arsenal's transfer plans this summer
Two of the biggest priorities at the Emirates are bolstering the wide positions and signing a brand new centre forward.
Out wide, we’ve seen notable links to the likes of Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo.
Athletic Bilbao'sNicoWilliamscelebrates scoring their third goal
As for the striker position, it’s all about Benjamin Sesko. Arsenal reportedly opened talks regarding a deal for the Slovenian a few weeks ago. Now, according to German reporter Florian Plettenburg, there is a ‘positive’ feeling around the deal, but no agreement is in place yet over a deal that could reach £68m to £85m.
If a deal cannot be done for the RB Leipzig star, then it’s likely Arsenal will aim to conclude a deal for Sporting superstar Viktor Gyokeres.
The Gunners were interested in the Swede’s services last summer and that interest has remained over the last year. What’s the latest on this one? Well, amid interest from Premier League rivals, Manchester United, it appears as though Gyokeres would prefer the Gunners.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
That’s according to Saturday’s edition of Portuguese newspaper, Record. They suggest that north London and Arsenal is now a ‘dream’ destination for the 27-year-old attacker.
As a result, Record reveals that Man United are ‘no longer an option’ for the Sweden international. That’s despite the fact the Red Devils are now coached by Gyokeres’ previous manager at Sporting, Ruben Amorim.
According to previous reports, Arsenal have already lodged an offer worth £55m, of which £10m are bonuses.
What Viktor Gyokeres could bring to Arsenal
The great debate of the 2025 summer transfer window for Arsenal fans is whether Sesko or Gyokeres would be the better signing.
Well, as far as the raw numbers dictate, it would be the latter. There are few better finishers in the game right now than the Sporting sensation with the Swede scoring a ridiculous haul of 54 goals in 52 games throughout all competitions in 2024/25.
In the league alone, Gyokeres trumped Sesko considerably with the former now being described as “the best striker in Europe” by the Athletic, while former Chelsea defender Mario Melchiot even posed the question: “Is he the best striker in the world right now?”
That question is a tricky one considering the level the big Swede has been playing at, but regardless of that, he’d surely be a sensational signing for Arteta’s attack.
They need goals and in the form of the Sporting star, they would find more of them. But, what qualities could be bring just outside of the goals?
Well, there are echoes of a certain Alexis Sanchez here. While the Chilean was certainly better on technique alone and he boasted better close control with the ball, they do have similar builds and running styles.
Indeed, one of the most notable traits Gyokeres can bring to the game is his bulldog-like style. His slightly stockier frame means he is a “human battering ram” in the words of the Athletic’s Mark Carey.
Outlining what makes him so difficult to deal with, Peter Kisfaludy, who was academy director at Gyokeres’s former Swedish club Brommapojkarna, once said: “He is a box player but he can also drive forward with the ball because he is fast and strong.”
What Arsenal have arguably lacked since the days of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Sanchez up front is pace. Gyokeres would bring that, but like Alexis, he’d also bring the physicality to stand up to the test of rugged Premier League defences.
Alexis Sanchez in English football
Season (club)
Games
Goals
Assists
2014/15 (Arsenal)
52
25
12
2015/16 (AFC)
41
17
10
2016/17 (AFC)
51
30
18
2017/18 (AFC & MUFC)
40
11
9
2018/19 (Man Utd)
27
2
4
Stats via Transfermarkt.
The Chile superstar has a similar bulldog-like approach, described by FourFourTwo as someone who “plays like he hates losing”, hassling defenders and never giving them a moment’s peace.
Ultimately diminutive in size, Sanchez has a compact build like the Swede and his muscular frame, particularly in the upper half of his body, meaning he could drive forward and burst past defenders with the same sort of power we see from Gyokeres.
There are obvious differences, we cannot deny that, but by luring the Sweden international away from Lisbon, Arsenal may finally find a ruthless centre forward with the same level of efficiency, one who’s capable of replicating the South American’s incredible impact at Arsenal.
Can you just imagine Alexis in this current Arteta side? We can only dream.
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