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The transfer window is really heating up at Rangers.

On Wednesday, the Light Blues signed not one but two new players, with Joe Rothwell and Emmanuel Fernandez both arriving, the latter for a reported fee of £3.5m.

So, with the start of Champions League qualifying now less than three weeks away, Russell Martin’s mass overhaul of the squad he has inherited continues, with more new signings seemingly set to follow soon.

Rangers looking to bolster their back line

This Rangers squad requires a lot of surgery this summer, and this is no more so the case than in defence.

Transfer Focus

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

Leon Balogun has departed, joining Aris Limassol on a free transfer, while Robin Pröpper appears set to return to FC Twente too.

Meanwhile, Max Aarons has arrived on loan from Bournemouth, with Fernandez now signing too, but Martin is certainly still seeking to improve his defensive options.

Well, as reported by Anthony Joseph of Sky Sports News, Rangers are “in talks” with Wolverhampton Wanderers as they aim to sign Nasser Djiga on a season-long loan.

This would be a straight loan, with no option or obligation to buy, for the Burkina Faso international, who only joined Wolves from Crvena zvezda for a reported fee of £10m as recently as February.

The 22 year old made just six appearances in old gold following his arrival, his sole Premier League start coming at Crystal Palace in May, when Vítor Pereira made wholesale changes, with David Irvine of the Glasgow Times noting that Wolves are keen on this loan move to Ibrox so that he can ‘gain experience’ of British football.

Thus, could Djiga be a transformational addition for Rangers?

How Nasser Djiga will improve Rangers

The young defender is certainly highly-rated, described by Serbian Football Scout as a “duel monster” who reads the game well, but is also capable of a “last-ditch tackle” when required.

Nasser Djiga

Meantime, writer Kai Watson believes he is the “ideal” centre-back for Martin’s possession-oriented style, labelling him a “strong passer” who possesses a “good understanding” of defensive play.

Before moving to Wolves, he caught the eye representing Red Star Belgrade in the Champions League, helping them dump out Bodø/Glimt in the play-off round, before also enjoying league phase victories over Stuttgart and Young Boys, so let’s take a look at his statistics.

Minutes

720

1st

Completed passes

322

1st

Progressive passes

33

4th

Pass completion %

89.4%

3rd

Tackles

10

5th

% of dribblers tackled

100%

1st

Interceptions

4

5th

Blocks

7

4th

Clearances

27

2nd

Ball recoveries

28

4th

Touches

433

3rd

As the table outlines, Djiga ranks very highly in the Champions League for all statistics included, when compared to his former teammates, doing so at a very high level, considering Crvena zvezda came up against Barcelona, Inter Milan, AC Milan, Benfica, PSV, Monaco and others during the league phase.

The centre-back’s defensive metrics are universally impressive but, more notably, so are his in-possession statistics, which will make him the perfect fit for a Martin team.

So, why will he be a more impactful signing than Aarons?

Well, in short, it’s due to what Rangers really need.

Aarons has presumably joined Rangers to play regularly, having seen just 338 minutes of action last season at Bournemouth and then Valencia, which raises serious question marks over current right-back and captain James Tavernier’s future.

Meantime, the Light Blues are desperate for central defensive reinforcements, with John Souttar and new arrival Fernandez currently the only options available to face Panathinaikos in a pivotal Champions League qualifier in just 19 days’ time.

So, while Djiga is clearly a high-potential player, he is also one that Rangers desperately require, making him a welcome and much-needed addition for Martin.

Ibrox's dream Igamane replacement: Rangers working to sign £5m striker

Rangers are eyeing up a move to sign a striker who would be a dream replacement for Hamza Igamane.

ByDan Emery Jul 3, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have a huge season ahead of them if they are to right the wrongs of the 2024/25 Premier League campaign, which saw them finish in a measly 17th place.

Ange Postecoglou may have ended their near-two-decade wait for a trophy, but it ultimately wasn’t enough to keep his job, with owner Daniel Levy handing the Aussie his marching orders.

The subsequent responsibility now falls into the hands of Thomas Frank, after the Dane moved to North London after spending nearly seven years in charge at Brentford.

Within his first interview since taking the reins, the 51-year-old stated the importance of building on their European success, aiming to transform the club into serial winners during his tenure.

However, if he is to achieve his ambitions, he will need backing from Levy in the transfer market, with key work already seemingly taking place behind the scenes.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

In recent days, it’s emerged that Spurs are preparing a £50m bid for West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus, as Frank evidently wants to improve the options within the final third.

He’s not the only Premier League talent currently on their radar this summer, with Brentford star Yoane Wissa also an option, potentially following the Dane in making the switch to North London.

However, another new name has been touted with a move to the club, in the form of OGC Nice star Evann Guessand, that’s according to TBR Football’s latest report.

They claim that the Lilywhites have made contact with the Ligue 1 outfit over a potential move for the 23-year-old forward, who netted 13 goals across all competitions this campaign.

It also states that the Ivorian international is keen on a move to England this window, with Leeds United, Crystal Palace and Brighton all pursuing a move for his signature.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be a better signing than Mbeumo

As a result of Frank’s appointment, striker Wissa hasn’t been the only talent touted with a move to follow his former boss, with winger Bryan Mbeumo another Bees star on Spurs’ radar.

The 25-year-old has been a key player in 2024/25, often causing numerous sides endless trouble, as seen in his tally of 20 league goals – with one of his efforts coming against the Lilywhites.

However, such form hasn’t gone unnoticed, leading to Manchester United also making a beeline for his signature, currently leading the race for the Cameroonian’s signature.

His desire to move to Old Trafford this summer has seen other targets being considered, with Kudus appearing as the main alternative to Mbeumo this window.

Despite such interest in the Hammers star, Guessand has also emerged as a key target, with the forward’s versatility a huge factor in any potential deal.

He can operate off either flank, as a central striker or even slightly deeper in a number ten role, offering Frank a viable option in numerous areas – something which Mbeumo would be unable to provide.

He’s also managed to outperform the Brentford star in numerous key areas for an attacker, whilst likely to cost a hefty whack less in the process, subsequently making him a better addition.

Games played

33

38

Goals & assists

20

27

Shot-on-target accuracy

44%

43%

Pass accuracy

73%

66%

Passes into final third

1.8

1.6

Take-on success

48%

46%

Aerials won

42%

31%

Guessand, who’s been labelled “one of the best young attackers” by one writer at The Athletic, may have registered fewer goals this campaign, but has matched the Bees star in goals per shots on target, showcasing he has the clinical nature needed in attacking areas.

He’s actually managed to direct more of his efforts on target than Frank’s former star boy, taking advantage of more opportunities that fall his way, demonstrating his ability to find the net when needed.

However, the Nice ace has also managed to complete more passes into the final third and complete more take-ons, having the skillset to offer players around him the chance to better their own goalscoring tallies.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the 23-year-old would cost this summer, it’s clear that he would be a sensational option for Spurs this summer, likely being a cheaper option than Mbeumo.

Despite Guessand being a cheaper option, it doesn’t take away from the talent he possesses, having the opportunity to play a key role in the club’s revival should he move to North London this summer.

He's as exciting as Mbeumo: Spurs set to launch £50m bid to sign Son heir

Tottenham Hotspur could be about to pursue a move for a star who could end Heung-min Son’s time in North London.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 19, 2025

Celtic players are slowly starting to filter back in for pre-season, and they could be joined by yet another new addition sooner rather than later, according to reports.

Celtic's transfer state of play with pre-season already underway

Several Celtic stars were spotted being put through their paces at Lennoxtown earlier this week, and it is anticipated that the bulk of the main group will join before long, but who could accompany them from elsewhere over the coming weeks?

Kieran Tierney, Ross Doohan and Benjamin Nygren have already been announced. Fulham youngster Callum Osmand is set to follow the trio to Celtic and has already been spotted at their training base before being officially confirmed as a new asset.

With Greg Taylor out of contract and set to depart, Djurgarden left-back Keita Kosugi is the latest name on the Bhoys’ radar as they plot a replacement for the Scotland international.

Despite some swift moves to bolster their pool of talent, Chris Sutton believes Celtic should be doing more in the transfer market with the Champions League qualifiers around the corner.

He explained: “Unless Celtic are going to start paying silly money, I’d imagine they may have to wait, perhaps even until the end of the window, for some of the key targets.

Celtic in talks to sell international defender for 7-figure loss

Is it the right time for him to leave?

1 ByHenry Jackson Jun 27, 2025

“But it still feels a little lacking to me at this precise point of proceedings and, at the very least, Rodgers will surely want the majority in his squad for the start of the domestic season.”

Managers will never be content with that they’ve got, there will always be an appetite for as many useful options as possible to offer cover across the pitch.

Either way, Sutton’s wish could now have been granted as Celtic are now on the brink of bringing in a talented central defender.

Celtic set to land Hayato Inamura with medical scheduled

According to Sponichi, Celtic are set to land defender Hayato Inamura from Albirex Niigata, and he will travel to Europe to undergo a medical before signing on the dotted line at Parkhead.

The 23-year-old took on his final fixture in current club colours against Machida Zelvia this weekend, and is set to become the ninth Japanese player to join the Hoops once his move is ratified.

Hayato Inamura’s record at Albirex Niigata

Appearances

35

Goals

1

Assists

2

Predominantly a central defender, Inamura is also capable of featuring at left-back and has two years left on his current deal at the Denka Big Swan Stadium. He is considered an impressive talent back home, evidenced by the fact he shares an agent with two of Japan’s top stars in Europe – £20m Arsenal man Takehiro Tomiyasu and Mainz star Kaishū Sano.

Enjoying a productive J League campaign, the Tokyo-born man has won 63 duels and 75% of his tackles and would likely arrive in Glasgow for a nominal fee, although the specifics on that front haven’t yet been confirmed.

Either way, Celtic appear primed to venture back into a market that has been a happy hunting ground in recent years, so there is every chance Inamura will become a shrewd addition with plenty of potential to develop.

Leeds United are now reportedly pushing to sign a midfield star after already announcing the arrival of Lukas Nmecha and reportedly agreeing a deal to sign Udinese’s Jaka Bijol.

Leeds set to sign Bijol after Nmecha

Following a quiet few weeks, Leeds’ summer transfer window has suddenly burst into life. First through the door has been Nmecha on a free transfer from Wolfsburg. The Manchester City graduate has returned to English football for the first time since leaving the Citizens and will be on the hunt to finally make his mark on Premier League football.

Set to join the forward at Elland Road is Bijol. The central defender enjoyed a solid season in Serie A with Udinese and is now reportedly set to join the Whites in a deal worth €22m (£19m).

The 49ers have wasted little time on the transfer front and they may just be getting started. Like Burnley and Sunderland, Leeds will be well aware of the importance of getting things right in the transfer window if they are to stand any chance of avoiding instant relegation back to the Championship.

All three sides will be desperate to end a worrying trend which has seen all of the last six promoted sides suffer instant relegation from the Premier League. Having so far backed Daniel Farke and his side, however, it seems as though the 49ers are particularly ready to interrupt that trend.

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Leeds are confident that they will sign this star, and he would be a big upgrade on Brenden Aaronson.

1 ByDan Emery Jun 17, 2025

Only adding to that belief, the American owners have already reportedly turned their attention towards another summer target after Nmecha and Bijol.

Leeds pushing to sign Noah Sadiki with £8.5m bid

Noah Sadiki has been a name at the centre of headlines this week. According to Sacha Tavolieri, Leeds have submitted an initial offer worth €10m (£8.5m) to sign Sadiki and have made contact with Union Saint-Gilloise about a potential deal.

In a contrasting report, however, reporter Joe Donnohue has claimed that a bid is yet to take place, but Sadiki is a name on Leeds’ radar this summer. Tavolieri, who reports for Sky Sports, has insisted that an offer has been made to only add to the headlines and belief that the 20-year-old midfielder could be on his way to Elland Road sooner or later.

Praised for an “excellent” performance against Ajax by U23 scout Antonio Mango last season, Sadiki is certainly one to watch this summer. Whether Leeds reported move is successful remains to be seen, however.

Glasgow Rangers appear to be closing in on their next head coach as Russell Martin is being heavily touted with a move to Ibrox ahead of next season.

Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano claims that the Scottish manager has accepted the project in Glasgow and is ready to join the Light Blues this summer.

Martin, who had a loan spell at Ibrox in the second half of the 2017/18 campaign, has been out of work since he was relieved of his duties by Premier League side Southampton at the end of 2024.

Whilst supporters may be concerned by his sacking in the top-flight in England, the ex-Norwich City centre-back also did a lot of good work in the Championship with the Saints, and has been backed to be a success by a former teammate.

As you can see in the clip above, Steven Naismith believes that Martin would bring a clear style of play to Ibrox that has been lacking with recent managerial appointments.

The style of play Russell Martin could bring to Rangers

If you look at the way his Southampton team played in the Championship, as a team expected to challenge at the top of the table, you can get an idea of how his Rangers team could look in the Scottish Premiership.

He coached a ball-dominant team that constantly wanted to control the game whilst also being progressive and creative in possession, rather than just having possession for the sake of having possession.

Martin wants his side to play with a purpose – to create chances and score goals – and his Southampton team did that effectively in the Championship in the 2023/24 campaign.

Pass accuracy

87.7%

1st

Passes into the penalty area

594

1st

Progressive passes

2556

1st

Shot-creating actions

1255

1st

xG

79.8

2nd

Points per game

1.89

4th

As you can see in the table above, the Saints ranked first in the league for progressive passes and passes into the penalty area, which shows how forward-thinking and incisive they were with the ball.

Southampton typically started matches in a 4-3-3 formation in that campaign, often with one winger who can drift infield to form a front two with the striker and one more traditional wide man on the other side.

This means that Rangers, should they go through with appointing Martin, should look to recruit players who would suit his ball-dominant and positionally flexible system in the summer transfer window.

With this in mind, the 49ers could land the Scottish head coach a dream first signing at Ibrox by swooping for a Leeds United star who has been linked with a move to Glasgow.

The Leeds star Rangers have been linked with

Earlier this month, TEAMtalk reported that Rangers have emerged as a potential suitor for Leeds forward Largie Ramazani ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

The outlet claimed that the Premiership giants are ‘monitoring’ his situation at Elland Road, a year on from his £10m move from Almeria to England.

Transfer Focus

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

It stated that Ramazani aligns with how the club want to recruit talent in the transfer market, as they are looking for young and dynamic players who can thrive in the Premiership and European competitions.

However, it remains to be seen whether or not the £10m-rated forward will be available for a move this summer because Daniel Farke is yet to make a final decision on his future in West Yorkshire.

The 49ers and sporting director Kevin Thelwell should, though, push hard to agree a deal for the Belgian forward because he would be a dream first signing for Martin at Ibrox, should he be appointed in the coming days or weeks.

Why Largie Ramazani would be a dream signing for Russell Martin

As aforementioned, the Scottish coach’s Southampton team typically had a traditional, direct, winger on the left and more of a central player on the right in the Championship.

Ramazani would be a perfect fit for Rangers on the left in Martin’s system as a natural wide player who likes to take players on and make things happen in the final third, using his dribbling and pace to cause opposition teams problems.

In fact, talent scout Jacek Kulig once described him as a “mini Vinicius”, referring to Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr, because of his “electric” and “explosive” play style, and the fact that they are both nimble and dynamic right-footed left wingers.

Whilst he may not have racked up 21 goals and 15 assists like Vinicius Jr did for Real in the 2024/25 campaign, Ramazani’s form in limited minutes for Leeds suggests that the potential is there for him to be an exciting addition for the Gers.

Non-penalty xG

0.53

Top 1%

Non-penalty goals

0.68

Top 1%

Assists

0.23

Top 18%

Non-penalty xG + Expected Assisted Goals

0.69

Top 1%

Progressive passes

4.29

Top 18%

Progressive carries

4.63

Top 8%

As you can see in the table above, the 24-year-old attacker ranked highly among his positional peers in the league for scoring and creating goals, whilst also progressing the ball consistently through carries and passes.

This suggests that he would be an ideal fit for Martin’s system, which requires players to constantly progress the play, whilst also having the quality in the final third to be a difference-maker in matches.

Ramazani ended the season with six goals and two assists in the division, despite starting just seven of his 29 appearances, which shows that he can be productive in front of goal.

Now, imagine the Belgian winger in a Rangers team managed by Martin that could consistently create chances for him to score, whilst starting week-in-week-out.

As bad as selling Raskin: Six English clubs want to sign Rangers star

Rangers selling this star would be as bad as cashing in on Nicolas Raskin this summer.

ByDan Emery Jun 3, 2025

Ramazani would be a dream first signing for both Martin and the 49ers because of the potential he has to be a game-changing addition on the wing, whilst also suiting the potential new manager’s style of play perfectly.

Tottenham Hotspur finally put an end to 17 long years of hurt last night.

Despite their diabolically poor domestic campaign and the absence of Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison, and Lucas Bergvall, Ange Postecoglou’s side managed to do what would have been unthinkable a few months ago and won the Europa League.

It wasn’t the prettiest or highest quality of games, but that hardly matters, as all the fans will remember is their players’ gritty, backs-to-the-wall performance and how they brought home the club’s third European trophy.

Moreover, one of the players in the squad now has to go down as one of the biggest legends in Spurs history, someone who now has an even bigger legacy in North London than Gareth Bale.

Spurs' heroes in Bilbao

Before getting to the legend in question, it’s worth going over some of the other heroes for Spurs last night, such as Micky van de Ven.

Chalkboard

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

The Flying Dutchman was a rock at the back for the North Londoners, and on helping to suffocate Manchester United, he also managed to pull off a sensational goal line clearance after Guglielmo Vicario misjudged a cross mid-way through the second half.

Equally impressed with the former VfL Wolfsburg star, Spurs writer Alasdair Gold awarded him a justifiable 10/10 match rating at full-time, the same rating he gave Cristian Romero.

The World Cup winner, who has now won all five of the finals he’s played in, was named the Man of the Match, and, to be honest, that’s a difficult decision to argue against, as he was utterly immense.

If the Argentine titan wasn’t getting his head to a ball or intercepting a pass, he was getting the heads of United’s players, and by the end of the game, he had a number of them on strings.

Both Destiny Udogie and Pedro Porro were also handed 10/10 ratings by Gold on the night, with the former actually being the more attacking of the two as the encounter went on and the latter showing that when it really comes down to it, he can put in a solid defensive showing at right-back.

Finally, while he only got a 7/10 from the football.london journalist, we reckon Richarlison was just as important as anyone else on the team last night, as from the first minute until he was taken off in the 67th minute, the Brazilian forward worked like a dog.

If he wasn’t making runs down the left, the former Everton star was putting in a monstrous defensive effort that most probably wouldn’t associate with him, and if the 28-year-old does end up leaving in the summer, he’ll do so as a cult hero for his display.

However, with all that said, another player who didn’t even start last night can now go down as one of the most important players in Tottenham’s history and someone with an even greater legacy than Bale.

Player ratings courtesy of Sofascore

The Spurs star with a greater legacy than Bale

While every player in the team last night will now go down as a Spurs hero at a minimum, there is one star for which the victory secured him a legacy that few in the modern era can match: Son Heung-min.

Yes, even though the South Korean superstar only came on in the 67th minute, and aside from a free-kick that Kevin Danso almost got on the end of offered very little, he has now gone from club icon to club legend.

Arguably, the only player in the last 25 years who can be placed on a higher pedestal than the former Bayer Leverkusen star is Harry Kane, and that’s only down to him being the club’s all-time goalscorer.

Moreover, while Bale has a good legacy with the North Londoners, he only played one game in their successful League Cup run in 2007/08.

In contrast, the Chuncheon-born superstar made ten appearances in the Europa League this season, scoring three goals and providing one assist.

Furthermore, the victory last night was just the icing on the cake to remove any question over his status as a club legend, as since he moved to N17 in the summer of 2015, he has been nothing short of brilliant.

For example, in 454 appearances for the club, the “incredible” phenom, as dubbed by Postecoglou, has scored 173 goals and provided 101 assists, which is an absurd average of a goal involvement every 1.65 games.

Appearances

454

Minutes

32186′

Goals

173

Assists

101

Goal Involvements per Match

0.60

Minutes per Goal Involvements

117.46′

Major Trophies

1

Ultimately, Son was always going to go down as a Spurs icon regardless of what happened last night, but the victory in Bilbao has now ensured he’ll leave the club as a legend and as someone with an even greater legacy than Bale.

Spurs hero just proved why he's a £100m star in the making in Bilbao

Spurs ended their 17-year trophy drought by lifting the Europa League trophy in Bilbao.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes May 22, 2025

Manchester United haven’t been shy of spending money over recent years, as seen by their window back in the summer of 2022 under former boss Erik ten Hag.

The Dutchman was in charge and spent upwards of £200m in his first window to try and transform the fortunes of the side after numerous years of failure at Old Trafford.

Players such as Casemiro, Lisandro Martínez and Antony all arrived to join the Red Devils, arguably costing too much given their lack of impact since arriving.

The latter is currently spending the rest of the campaign out on loan at Real Betis, registering just one goal for the Red Devils up until January, leading to his subsequent temporary stint elsewhere.

Ruben Amorim will likely have funds available at his disposal this summer to improve their Premier League standing, needing to avoid a repeat of such a window.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

With just a couple of weeks remaining until the summer window opens, United will have a huge task to try and right the wrongs of this season and build a competitive squad ahead of 2025/26.

Various players in different positions have all been targeted already, with the likes of Liam Delap, Ederson and Matheus Cunha just three names mentioned with a switch to Manchester.

However, another name has entered the mix, in the form of Monaco’s right-back Vanderson, that’s according to GIVEMESPORT’s latest update on the transfer front.

It confirms that the Red Devils are considering a move for the Brazilian this summer, with the Ligue 1 outfit demanding a fee in the region of £30m to offload the 23-year-old.

It also confirms that options are being considered across all areas of the pitch, with Amorim tempted to land a new right wing-back to help fit his 3-4-2-1 system in which he’s implemented since taking the reins.

Why United’s £30m target could be their own Frimpong

Jeremie Frimpong has been a name massively mentioned across England in recent weeks, appearing to be edging ever closer to a switch to the Premier League.

It’s been reported that the Dutch international has approved a move to join fellow top-flight outfit Liverpool this summer, with Arne Slot’s side needing to trigger his £29.5m release clause.

The Bayer Leverkusen star would be the direct replacement for the departing Trent Alexander-Arnold, handing the Red Devils’ rivals another impressive option.

However, United will be hoping to close the gap to the Merseyside outfit next campaign, with Vanderson offering Amorim’s men their own version of the full-back.

When comparing their respective figures from the ongoing campaign, the Brazilian has managed to match or better him in numerous key areas – showcasing how much of a superb addition he would be at Old Trafford.

The right-back, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by talent scout Antonio Mango, has registered more progressive passes and completed more of the take-ons he’s attempted – highlighting the impressive nature he possesses with the ball at his feet.

He’s also won more tackles per 90 and made more interceptions per 90 – handing Amorim an excellent option at both ends of the pitch, something which is perfect for a wing-back in his system.

Games played

28

33

Goals & assists

4

10

Progressive passes

4.5

2

Pass accuracy

78%

76%

Passes into final third

3.3

1.1

Shot-creating actions

2.6

2.5

Tackles won

2.1

0.9

Interceptions made

1.8

0.3

Take-on success

50%

29%

Aerials won

46%

33%

His talents don’t stop there, registering more shot-creating actions and winning more aerials than Frimpong – having the tools to be an excellent option should the club pursue a move for his signature.

£30m for Vanderson appears to be a superb price for a star who could easily slot into life in the Premier League, handing Amorim his own version of the soon-to-be Liverpool talent.

If United are to return to their former glory in the coming months, shrewd additions are needed to progress, with the Brazilian having all the tools to be a success at Old Trafford.

He'd make Bruno unplayable: Man Utd enter talks for "unbelievable" star

Manchester United could be about to land a star who could make Bruno Fernandes unplayable.

ByEthan Lamb May 16, 2025

At times, it has appeared as though this season would be a complete catastrophe for Manchester City.

Now, having won four successive Premier League matches, they have second-placed Arsenal firmly in their sights, while the Sky Blues are also through to a third successive FA Cup Final, massive favourites to defeat Crystal Palace at Wembley in ten days’ time.

Nevertheless, Pep Guardiola will still want to oversee a major squad rebuild this summer, so does he have his eyes on one of the Premier League’s most outstanding players this season?

Manchester City's number one midfield target

According to a report in Spain, Manchester City are plotting an offer of €60m (£51m) to sign Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White, claiming Guardiola ‘already has in mind’ how he would fit into his team.

Fabrizio Romano adds that Gibbs-White is one of Man City’s main “priority targets”, although the deal will not be easy, given that Forest “still hope to keep” hold of their star asset.

The 25-year-old joined Forest from Wolves for a reported £42.5m three summers ago, and his value has only increased since then, hence why Ciaran McCarthy of TeamTalk is reporting that he is valued at £100m by the Garibaldi Reds.

Transfer Focus

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

So, would Gibbs-White be a good signing for the Citizens, and could he have a similar impact to that of a talismanic midfielder from across Manchester?

Man City's answer to Bruno Fernandes

Given that Manchester United are currently 15th in the Premier League table, on course for their lowest finish since being relegated in 1974, Mark Critchley of The Athletic’s question is a valid one: where on earth would they be without Bruno Fernandes?

Well, in the relegation zone is the seemingly hyperbolic but possibly accurate answer because, as outlined by Jamie Jackson of the Guardian, Fernandes has been Man United’s most important player from the moment he first arrived, as outlined in the table below.

Appearances

285

Matches not featured in

18

Goals

98

Assists

85

PL goal involvements

112

% of PL goals involved in (since debut)

35.33%

As the table notes, Fernandes has been directly involved in more than 35% of Man United’s 317 Premier League goals since his debut on 1 February 2020, underlining that he’s simply been a transformational player at Old Trafford.

So, could Gibbs-White have a similar impact at the Etihad? Well, let’s compare the duo to help find out, having been noted as similar players in the top-flight this season, among those in their position, as per FBref.

Appearances

31

33

Minutes

2,561

2,762

Goals

5

8

Assists

9

10

Goals – xG

+0.3

-2.1

Shots on target %

34%

30.1%

Pass completion %

78.2%

75.2%

Shot-creating actions

104

169

Goal-creating actions

17

12

Through-balls

16

27

Progressive carries

64

65

Progressive passes received

118

118

Touches per 90

53

78

Ball recoveries

118

192

Note: all statistics are Premier League only

As the table highlights, Fernandes and Gibbs-White have recorded very similar statistics this season, with the Portuguese international predominantly coming out on top, albeit the Englishman has proved to be a more clinical finisher, while registering more goal-creating actions, as well as a higher percentage when it comes to passing and shots on target.

Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout praises Gibbs-White’s “versatility and quality”, while commentator Jamie Martin is impressed by his “superb ball-carrying”, adding that the midfielder is “constantly improving”. In the words of journalist Ahmed Yussuf, he is “a transition monster”.

As outlined by Zak Garner-Purkis of Forbes, Gibbs-White’s ‘exceptional performances’ have been key to Forest’s astronomical rise up the table this season, adding that it’s easy to understand why Man City are ‘eager to have him in their ranks’.

So, could he be making the move from the City Ground to Manchester City this summer?

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ByKelan Sarson May 5, 2025

When Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk decided to extend their contracts at Liverpool and put months of speculation pertaining to their futures to bed, they wanted reassurances that FSG mean to invest.

The veteran superstars are arguably the finest players in their respective positions worldwide, and despite Jurgen Klopp’s decision to step down from his long-held manager’s role last year, have enjoyed staggering success under Arne Slot to move within an inch of the Premier League title.

Liverpool are Champions Elect, all but confirmed as this year’s English top-flight winners. It’s a remarkable feat, built upon the foundations laid by Klopp.

However, now is the time for Slot to put his own stamp on the Anfield side, with Federico Chiesa the sole arrival of his reign so far – goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili is expected to arrive this summer after a deal was agreed last year.

While Salah’s staying put and Liverpool are expected to prioritise the signing of a new centre-forward with Darwin Nunez expected to leave, there’s a good chance sporting director Richard Hughes will be tasked with signing a new wideman.

Liverpool need more quality on the wings

Make no mistake, Liverpool’s attacking force has been exactly that under Slot’s wing: a force to be reckoned with. However, with Nunez and Chiesa struggling and Jota enduring a disappointing season too, it’s understandable that the club wish to bolster.

Mohamed Salah

46

32

23

Cody Gakpo

43

16

6

Luis Diaz

45

15

8

Diogo Jota

32

9

4

Darwin Nunez

42

7

7

Federico Chiesa

12

2

2

The likes of Fabrizio Romano have confirmed that Nunez is set to leave this summer after Saudi side Al-Nassr failed with a series of bids in January, but Liverpool may also look out wide in spite of Salah’s contract renewal.

Indeed, Luis Diaz is in red-hot form at the moment but, aged 28 and entering the penultimate year of his contract, is also deemed expendable, should the right offer come in.

Of course, FSG aren’t going to want to let the Barcelona- and Saudi-linked star leave on the cheap, letting suitors know that they will field bids totalling €80m (£67m).

Salah will be 33 by the time the 2025/26 season kicks off, and though Liverpool’s data analysts, some of the best in the business, are confident that the Egyptian King will continue firing true over the next two years, some more firepower wouldn’t go amiss.

When Salah does enter his twilight, Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka looks ready to take his mantle and assume the star spot as the Premier League’s most dangerous winger. Liverpool won’t want to let that happen, of course, and have actually identified their own version of the Three Lions superstar.

Liverpool step up interest in rising star

Liverpool are planning for a big summer, alright. If Diaz should leave, plans are being drawn for the transfer of Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens, one of the most coveted young wingers in Europe right now.

Transfer Focus

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

According to Football Insider, FSG are actually accelerating their plans to sign the 20-year-old after sorting out Liverpool’s contractual obstacles, having been scouting him for a while. He is believed to be a “key target”, as per scout Mick Brown.

Dortmund recognise the value of their youngster, however, and have previously responded to links away by placing a whopping €100m (£85m) price tag on Gittens’ head. Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham have also registered interest.

Liverpool aren’t likely to engage in such exorbitant demands, but if a more agreeable figure can be agreed, there’s every chance the Reds could secure one of the most exciting English talents around after identifying him as a key target.

What Jamie Gittens would bring to Liverpool

Gittens might still be in the fledgling stage of his professional career, but he’s already made quite the impression in Dortmund’s senior squad, following Jadon Sancho’s footsteps in moving to the German club from Manchester City’s youth academy.

The Yellow Wall have long been a hothouse for developing exciting talent and Gittens will hardly regret his decision, having already featured 102 times for the club.

The step-by-step progress he has shown will have pleased Liverpool’s scouts to no end, always regarded as an athletic, pacy and powerful winger but starting to sharpen his attacking tools, enjoying success as a proper goal threat this term.

24/25

44 (32)

12

5

23/24

34 (18)

2

8

22/23

20 (5)

3

1

21/22

4 (1)

0

0

This incremental growth does suggest that Gittens could match his compatriot Saka down the line, albeit in Liverpool’s shade of red.

As per FBref, Gittens ranks among the top 16% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for non-penalty goals scored, the top 7% for progressive carries and the top 1% for successful take-ons per 90.

This perfectly illustrates his blend of physicality and potency, something that perhaps Saka, 23, performs without rival at the moment.

Arsenal dispatched Real Madrid over two legs to advance to the semi-finals of the Champions League, and Saka was the star forward at the Santiago Bernabeu, his chipped goal taking his haul to 11 strikes and 14 assists across 29 matches this term.

So dangerous. So dynamic. The right-sided forward’s completeness is part of what makes him such an incredible, highest-class footballer, but Gittens truly has the skills to match him.

The Dortmund man has also been impressive in the Champions League this year, hailed by Romano for one “special” performance against Club Brugge in the group stage, scoring two goals.

The rising star’s technical quality suggests he can go all the way, and under Slot’s wing at Liverpool, maybe he can take the next steps toward rivalling Saka for the position as England’s prized winger.

Liverpool have unearthed their new Wijnaldum & it's not Mac Allister

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ByDan Emery Apr 16, 2025

The Premier League title race may now be all but over, but the season is not lost for Arsenal, with Mikel Arteta’s side preparing for a mammoth tussle with holders Real Madrid in the Champions League in midweek.

Preparations for that mouthwatering meeting have been hampered by the loss of Gabriel to injury, however, with the Brazilian’s absence just the latest in a long line of setbacks for the north London side.

The top end of the pitch, in particular, has been ravaged in recent months, resulting in the bold move to deploy Mikel Merino in a centre-forward berth for the first time in his career – a decision that has since yielded five goals for the experienced Spaniard.

The Euro 2024 winner only served to enhance his growing ‘cult status’ after dropping back into his preferred midfield berth against Everton on Saturday afternoon, however, having won 14 duels and suffered a blow to the head amid a full-blooded display.

While the 28-year-old has provided a much-needed short-term solution as a makeshift centre-forward, that latest outing showcased that his future must lie in the midfield.

The question is, will there be room for him in the starting lineup moving forward?

How Arsenal's midfield could look next season

There may be a headache for Arteta as to who to select as part of his midfield trio for the long-term – we’ll come on to that – but what is set in stone is that Declan Rice will be at the heart of it.

Be it as a number six or as a number eight, the £105m man has become an invaluable presence for the Gunners since his arrival back in 2023, having notably contributed 13 goals and assists in all competitions this season.

That tally included his stunning curling effort in the 1-1 draw away at Old Trafford, with the Englishman developing a knack for making an impact in the final third – as evidenced by his surging run and assist while on international duty for the Three Lions.

With the 26-year-old a nailed-on starter, the role of Martin Odegaard – who started on the bench at Goodison – may be in doubt, albeit with it not too long ago that the Arsenal skipper was being described as “out of this world” by Rice himself.

The Norwegian playmaker, at his best, remains one of the most creative players in the division – as his tally of 18 goals and assists in the league showcased in 2023/24 – with it certainly not the time to write him off just yet.

With that in mind, the final midfield role could come down to either Merino or potential summer arrival, Martin Zubimendi – amid continued doubts over Thomas Partey’s future at the Emirates – albeit with there now another name to throw into the mix who could look to emulate Rice.

Why Arsenal may be brewing their next Declan Rice

The former West Ham United man has caught the eye over the last 18 months amid his burgeoning set-piece prowess, having produced another whipped, in-swinging corner in the early knockings against Everton, although it is his powerful runs from deep that remain the midfielder’s key strength.

Non-penalty goals

0.12

Top 27%

Assists

0.23

Top 6%

Shot-creating actions

3.31

Top 18%

Pass completion

84.7%

Top 45%

Progressive passes

5.92

Top 25%

Progressive carries

2.68

Top 5%

Touches in attacking box

2.59

Top 12%

Tackles

1.90

Bottom 38%

Interceptions

0.81

Bottom 35%

Indeed, that is epitomised by the fact that Rice ranks in the top 5% of midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues for progressive carries per 90, indicating his ability to drag the Gunners up the pitch with the ball at his feet.

That is a trait that, as Saturday showcased, looks to be shared by young Myles Lewis-Skelly, with the 18-year-old producing a magnificent carry from just outside his own box, before winning a free-kick on the edge of the opposition penalty area.

The manner in which the teenager powered his way through a sea of bodies was certainly reminiscent of his colleague and compatriot, with Rice himself having previously likened the Hale End graduate to Tottenham Hotspur icon, Mousa Dembele, due to his mix of strength and ball-carrying prowess.

Of course, Lewis-Skelly made the headlines on Merseyside for all the wrong reasons after giving away a penalty just after the break, albeit with it fair to say that the rising star was harshly penalised for his ‘foul’ on Jack Harrison. As Arteta stated post-match, it was “never a penalty”.

The fact remains that the “insane” talent – as described by analyst Ben Mattinson – had allowed Harrison to get the wrong side of him in the first place, a moment that perhaps served as a reminder that he isn’t actually a left-back by trade.

Lewis-Skelly has fended off the likes of Oleksandr Zinchenko, Kieran Tierney and Riccardo Calafiori to make that spot his own, following his debut against Manchester City back in September, although it was actually in central midfield that he largely operated during his time in the youth ranks.

As Mattinson has stated, while Lewis-Skelly represents an ideal solution as an inverted full-back, in the “long-term” he will most likely slot in as a defensive midfielder or in a left eight role, having shown at academy level that he is an “aggressive dueller, ball-winner [and an] exceptional ball-carrier”.

It could be the case then that a midfield trio of Odegaard, Rice and Lewis-Skelly emerges as the leading option next season, with Saturday’s Merseyside moment having shown a mere glimpse of what the teenager can offer in midfield with his Rice-like quality.

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