Aston Villa have a squad filled with players who shone for the club in the Champions League and Premier League this season.
It’s fair to say, though, that they haven’t been blessed with a natural, god-given talent since Jack Grealish departed in the summer of 2021.
Jack Grealish
The Englishman worked his way up from academy starlet to first-team sensation before leaving for £100m four years ago.
Why Jack Grealish was so good at Aston Villa
The 2024/25 season may not have been his finest at Manchester City, notably left out of the squad by Pep Guardiola for their final match of the season. Yet, he is still 28 and has plenty of football left in him.
“Of course, Jack has to play. That’s the truth. Jack is an unbelievable player that has to play football every three days. And it didn’t happen this season, and last season neither. And he needs to do it with us, or another place. But that is a question for Jack, his agent, and the club. If he stays, we’ll be fine, and he’ll fight like he fought since day one to make a contribution.” – Pep on Grealish.
During his spell with Villa, however, he was one of the finest talents in the country. He scored 32 goals and grabbed 43 assists across 213 matches, leading the club back to the Premier League in 2019.
As the years progressed, it became clear that Grealish was perhaps one of the finest academy graduates to play for the club. In his final season, the Englishman demonstrated his creative talents.
In just 26 top-flight games, he created 14 big chances for Villa, along with averaging an impressive 3.2 key passes and succeeding with 2.5 dribbles per game.
Season
Games
Goals
Assists
2020/21
27
7
12
2019/20
41
10
8
2018/19
35
6
8
2017/18
31
3
6
2016/17
33
5
5
2015/16
21
1
1
2014/15
24
0
3
While Villa have gone from strength to strength under Unai Emery since 2022, the Spaniard must wish he had a talent like Grealish at his peak to utilise.
With the summer transfer window soon to open, can Emery sign the next best thing for the Midlands side?
Aston Villa could sign their new Grealish
The Villa Park side are showing plenty of interest in a move for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze after he enjoyed a stunning campaign.
This culminated with the winning goal in the FA Cup final against Man City and this has driven his price up. Indeed, the Englishman is wanted by the Villans and could cost around £65m according to reports, should any club wish to sign him this summer.
The fee would shatter Villa’s record transfer, but there is no doubt Eze would be worth the price.
In the Premier League this season, the 26-year-old averaged 1.7 key passes and succeeded with two dribbles per game. Furthermore, he even created 12 big chances for the Eagles.
These statistics are comparable to Grealish’s from his final league season at Villa, and it suggests Eze has the ability to become their new attacking sensation.
Analyst Ben Mattinson lauded the midfielder as a “superstar” in April 2024. Fast-forward 12 months, and this sentiment certainly continues to ring true with the England international scoring 14 goals and supplying 11 assists during an outstanding season.
Couple that with the flashy and carefree nature that Grealish also exudes, and the Palace sensation with his extra end product certainly has the potential to eclipse what the current City star achieved in the Midlands.
The only stumbling block might be the fact that Eze wouldn’t be playing Champions League football should he move to Villa. If he does, however, there is no doubt that the London-born dynamo can lead Emery’s side to another campaign in Europe’s premier club competition.
The next few weeks could be interesting, to say the least.
Aston Villa eye move for £25m Martinez successor who's beaten them 6 times
Crystal Palace now hold strong interest in signing a £30m defender, who’s also a target for Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, according to a report.
Palace looking to strengthen with Europe on the horizon
Not only did Palace win the first major piece of silverware in their history courtesy of the 1-0 FA Cup final victory against Manchester City, but they also secured qualification for the 2025-26 Europa League, which could be quite the adventure for supporters.
This week, however, it was revealed the Eagles may not get to play in the competition, given their multi-club ownership model, although John Textor is willing to sell his shares in the club on the cheap to allow them to compete.
A meeting has been held to discuss the south Londoners’ involvement, but UEFA are yet to make a decision, meaning it is still very much up in the air whether Oliver Glasner’s side will be allowed to play in the prestigious competition.
Oliver Glasner lifts FA CUp.
It is thought that a decision will be made in around a week, which means the hierarchy must continue planning for the summer transfer window in the meantime, and they have now set their sights on a Bayern Munich target.
Indeed, according to a report from L’Equipe (via Get French Football News), Crystal Palace now hold strong interest in signing Burnley defender Maxime Esteve, having identified him as a priority target for the summer.
Top 1% for dribbling: Crystal Palace now "show interest" in "amazing" ace
Palace have now joined the race for a defender, who is “expected” to leave his current club this summer.
ByDominic Lund Jun 4, 2025
However, there could be competition for Esteve’s signature, with Everton stepping up their interest in recent days, while the Bundesliga champions are also thought to be keen, although not to the same degree as Palace.
Having played a key role in Burnley’s promotion to the Premier League, the Clarets should be in a strong position to command a good fee for the centre-back, and previous reports have suggested they could hold out for around £30m.
"Phenomenon" Esteve could be ideal Guehi replacement
This summer will be the Eagles’ last chance to cash-in on their captain, with his contract set to expire next June, meaning Glasner could be faced with the momentous task of finding a replacement for the Englishman.
Of course, no Palace fan will want to see Guehi leave, but there are indications the Frenchman could be an ideal replacement, given the role he played in Burnley’s promotion last season, featuring in all 46 Championship games as his side shipped just 16 goals.
The 23-year-old is also at a good age to be a long-term success at Selhurst Park, and he has been praised by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, who described the defender as a “true athletic phenomenon with some really good ball skills.”
Should they be allowed to compete in Europe, Crystal Palace will be in a good position to attract some top players this summer, and there are plenty of signs Esteve is in that category.
Celtic are beginning to probe in the summer window and could turn to someone who is a familiar face in the eyes of Brendan Rodgers as they strengthen from middle to front, according to a report.
Celtic return for Kieran Tierney kickstarts summer business
The Bhoys have already recruited Kieran Tierney as a statement addition this month and more signings are expected to follow as building for next campaign enters full view.
Speaking after confirmation that the Scotland international is back in Glasgow, Scott Brown believes Tierney could become the next Celtic captain if he manages to hit the ground running during his second spell.
kieran-tierney-celtic
He explained: “It’s probably the best move Celtic’s made. Looking at Kieran, Brendan Rodgers got the best out of him before, he knows what he’s like.
“I’m sure he probably tried to sign him when he was down at Leicester as well. You can see longer term, Kieran will probably be next Celtic captain.”
Ending a long wait for what will become an emotional reunion, Rodgers could look to bring Motherwell midfielder Lennon Miller to Celtic as links continue to persist following the 18-year-old’s sparkling debut for Scotland against Liechtenstein.
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The Bhoys are beginning to step up their summer business.
BySean Markus Clifford Jun 11, 2025
Fulham striker Callum Osmand will also arrive at the Bhoys for training compensation, emphasising the Bhoys’ commitment to landing value for money in the market.
Free or nominal transfers may not be the most glamorous mode of operation, but there are plenty of exciting stars out there who don’t cost the earth in the grand scheme of things.
Leaning into that theme a little further, Celtic have now turned their attenton to a versatile star who is known to Rodgers that could strengthen their pool of options.
Celtic plotting move for Fousseni Diabaté
According to Africa Foot, Celtic are tracking Lausanne Sport star Fousseni Diabaté amid his availability on a free transfer once his contract expires at the Swiss Super League outfit.
Intriguingly, the Mali international was previously at Leicester City and was labelled a “talent” by Hoops boss Rodgers despite being out on loan while the Irishman was in charge at the King Power Stadium.
Fousseni Diabate in 2024/25 – all competitions
Appearances
40
Goals
8
Assists
9
Capable of playing on either flank or as an attacking midfielder, newly-promoted Ligue 1 outfit Paris FC have emerged as another serious contender for his signature, though they will be joined by several other European clubs in the hunt for his services.
Lausanne have offered a two-year extension to Diabate in an attempt to retain his services. Nevertheless, he isn’t keen on penning a new deal, which could pave the way for a bargain swoop from the Bhoys to land the 29-year-old.
One or two wingers will be necessary after Jota was ruled out for several months due to injury, so it is intriguing to see that Celtic are doing their due diligence on that front.
Even after Chelsea sealed the signing of Liam Delap from Ipswich Town for around £30 million, Enzo Maresca and co are still in the market for another centre-forward.
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Andrea Berta has shifted focus.
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Delap made his debut for the Blues against Los Angeles FC in the Club World Cup, assisting Nicolas Jackson for Chelsea’s second goal of the game in a 2-0 win, with Levi Colwill and Tosin Adarabioyo heaping praise on the exciting striker signing after their match in Atlanta.
“I’ve known Liam for a long time now, and I’ve played against him loads of times. Growing up, you know what sort of players are going to make it and he was always one of those,” said Colwill, via the BBC.
Cole Palmer
7.33
Moises Caicedo
7.02
Enzo Fernández
6.95
Nicolas Jackson
6.88
Noni Madueke
6.82
via WhoScored
“To have him in our team, to train against him, to see him score goals – which I know he will – I’m very excited.”
Tosin also drew attention to Delap’s aggression and intensity, with plenty of expectation now on the former Man City starlet’s shoulders after he took the number 9 shirt.
“He’s settled in very well. He’s a good young lad, and we know what qualities he brings,” said Tosin.
“He’s aggressive [when] pressing and an aggressive striker, making sure he’s always there, setting the intensity. Hopefully he scores many goals for us.”
While some doubts surround Delap’s readiness to lead the line, considering he’s still raw and very young, Chelsea are believed to be targeting a second frontman after the 22-year-old’s arrival.
Chelsea have held talks over Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike, who scored 22 goals in all competitions last season, and tried to secure the Frenchman’s signature in time for the Club World Cup, only for talks to collapse.
However, he remains “one to watch” for the coming weeks and talks are apparently ongoing.
As well as Ekitike, Chelsea are being linked with Brighton star Joao Pedro.
Newcastle United fear Chelsea will hijack Joao Pedro deal
The Brazil international is a wanted man following his impressive stint down south, with Chelsea identifying Pedro as one of their next striker targets before deadline day on September 1.
Now, talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook has shared an update on the situation.
Brighton forward Joao Pedro
Crook states that Newcastle are fearful that Chelsea will hijack their deal for Pedro, who Brighton are demanding £70 million for, as they look to reinforce Eddie Howe’s squad for a campaign back in the Champions League next season.
Given the Magpies’ internal concerns, this could be an indicator that Chelsea are still seriously in for Pedro, and the South American certainly falls in line with BlueCo’s recent transfer policy of signing world football’s most exciting talents.
Pedro can also play up front or across any of the attacking midfield positions, but given the already-young average age of Chelsea’s squad and their arguably dire need for more experienced squad members, Stamford Bridge chiefs will certainly be keen to whittle down the 23-year-old’s hefty asking price.
Leeds United aren’t messing about getting their business done early during the chaotic summer transfer window.
Already, Daniel Farke’s Whites are two signings down with plenty more activity expected at Elland Road, with Lukas Nmecha starting proceedings when joining from Wolfsburg, before Leeds dipped their toes in once more to land Jaka Bijol for a bumper £15m.
Of course, there will be the worry of exits still to come – as faces such as Junior Firpo slowly edge away from their West Yorkshire home – but the general feeling in the air at the newly promoted side will be one of optimism, especially as Leeds are usually notoriously slow out of the traps to seal signings.
Nikola Krstovic could be the next notable pick-up through the door, but the Whites might be able to land an even better signing than the potent Montenegrin if they succeed with this other pursuit.
Leeds join the race for £9m star
As per a new report from journalist Graeme Bailey, Leeds are now in the race to snap up promising Borussia Mönchengladbach left-back Lukas Ullrich this summer.
Bailey states that the Bundesliga giants are looking to tie the Germany U21 international down to a new deal. However, significant interest from the Premier League – away from just Leeds being keen – could potentially jeopardise those talks.
Lukas Ullrich chases Bayern Munich's Michael Olise.
Indeed, it’s stated that Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace, Everton, Brighton, and Nottingham Forest are all also chasing the £9m-rated defender, as per Football Transfers, meaning Leeds will have their work cut out to advance to the front of the queue for Ullrich’s services.
Still, Leeds might well deem it more of a necessary and worthwhile venture chasing after the Berlin-born starlet than continuing to pursue Krstovic, with the newly promoted side desperately short on numbers down the left.
Why Ullrich could be a better signing than Krstovic
Leeds already possess the likes of Joel Piroe and Patrick Bamford in attack, even if the Lecce striker didn’t move on to England, with the Dutchman just fresh off a 19-goal season in the Championship.
Moreover, Bamford – away from his recurring injury problems – is also a Premier League-experienced head that could still offer Farke a worthwhile option if needed, as seen in his respectable 24-goal tally at the intimidating level.
Therefore, it would be safe to assume that the Whites are well-stocked in this department for the time being, with it also being a risk to splash around the £30m mark on Krstovic, considering Georginio Rutter is their most expensive capture ever at just £5.5m more.
Whereas, for £7m, Leeds would be able to win a star in Ullrich, who should only get better with time, and a purchase that is needed far more urgently than another centre-forward joining the building. After all, if you remove Firpo from Leeds’ ever-changing squad, only an ageing Sam Byram is available in the left-back spot.
Minutes played
90
Goals scored
0
Assists
1
Touches
52
Accurate passes
20/28 (71%)
Successful dribbles
1/1
Clearances
4
Tackles
6
Total duels won
7/10
The in-demand 21-year-old has already shown he can do it on the big occasion for club and country too, as seen in his one goal and two assists last season as an attack-oriented full-back for Gladbach, on top of his recent heroics for his nation at the U21 Euros when his early assist got Germany up and running against the youthful Three Lions.
On the night, the “high intensity” defender – as described by Germany U19 manager Guido Streichsbier – showed he can tussle with the likes of Harvey Elliott and Ethan Nwaneri and come out on top, meaning he might well be ready for the challenge of the Premier League to follow.
Lukas Ullrich against Borussia Dortmund.
He isn’t quite at Firpo’s level just yet, considering the ex-Barcelona defender picked up a hefty ten assists last campaign.
But, having been noted as making “huge strides” already by manager Gerardo Seoane, the Premier League might well just be the next big step he has to adjust to, with Farke also known to get the maximum out of up-and-coming youngsters under his wing.
He'd be unstoppable with Tanaka: Leeds make offer to sign "complete" star
Leeds are looking to sign a new midfielder this summer
A hugely promising Glasgow Rangers transfer update has now emerged, with a fresh update claiming that they have agreed to sign a Premier League player.
Rangers open talks with Vardy and eye further signings
The Gers have reportedly opened talks to bring Leicester City legend Jamie Vardy to Ibrox, ahead of what could be such an interesting piece of business this summer. 49ers Enterprises are clearly hoping to add some high level experience along with bringing in the likes of Thelo Aasgaard from Luton Town to add some youthful exuberance.
At 38, Vardy certainly isn’t getting any younger, and isn’t the force he was when he inspired the Foxes to a stunning Premier League title win back in 2015/16, but he still has the hunger and quality to be a big success in the Scottish Premiership next season.
Rangers are also said to be closing in on the signing of Conor Coady from Leicester, with the centre-back possessing an enormous amount of experience in his career, representing both Liverpool and Everton.
He isn’t the only central defensive option being looked at by the Gers, however, with that search at both ends of the age spectrum evident again.
Rangers agree deal for Nasser Djiga
According to The Daily Record [via Ibrox News], Rangers and 49ers Enterprises are now also set to complete the signing of Nasser Djiga, bringing him in on a season-long loan deal from Wolves.
There is no buy option come the end of next season, though, with Wanderers manager Vitor Pereira considering him an important part of his future plans.
While signing Djiga on a permanent basis would be even more perfect for Rangers, the idea of him being at Ibrox for the whole of next season is still a big positive.
The 22-year-old is such a gifted young footballer with a bright future in the game, making six appearances for Wolves to date and being hailed as both “aggressive” and “powerful” by journalist Kai Watson.
Hopefully, Djiga will be desperate to prove his worth out on loan, showing Wolves that he can be a key starter for them eventually, which should play into Rangers and Russell Martin’s hands, meaning they have a player who is giving his all every day.
Rangers have now opened talks with England legend with £9m in net worth
What a signing this would be for Russell Martin.
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The centre-back has been loaned out to Nimes and Red Star Belgrade in the past, so he shouldn’t find it too difficult to adjust to new surroundings, and the hope is that he plays a part in the Gers getting their hands back on the Scottish Premiership trophy and is tempted to stay for good.
A new era is set to begin this season for Everton. Led by club legend David Moyes, now well into his second spell in charge at the club, they will move into the Hill Dickinson Stadium this season, after giving Goodison Park its farewell at the end of last term.
Indeed, the Toffees will go into the 2025/26 campaign in excellent form under the Scot. Since taking over on the 11th January this year, he has managed 20 games, winning eight, losing just five and drawing the rest. The final three games of the season saw Everton pick up a maximum of nine points.
Moyes’ side will have to wait before they can take to the pitch at their new home. Their first game is away to Leeds United, with Brighton and Hove Albion the first opponent to play at their new ground in the Premier League.
With the transfer window still very much open, Moyes will no doubt be looking to recruit players across the pitch and strengthen his squad. Carlos Alcaraz is the only addition so far this summer, with his loan move from Flamengo turning permanent for an undisclosed fee.
So, who will be joining Alcaraz in signing for the Toffees ahead of a historic season? Here is a look at what Everton’s dream squad could look like in 2025/26.
The goalkeepers A new number 2 alongside Pickford
It will come as absolutely no surprise that Everton and England’s number one, Jordan Pickford, will be going nowhere this season. The 31-year-old is very much at the top of his game and was a standout player for his side last term.
He had an impressive record, conceding just 44 goals and keeping 12 clean sheets in all 38 games in the top flight. He is a trusted lieutenant of Moyes, who managed him at Sunderland in his younger days.
England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford
However, the goalkeeper stocks at Everton are thin on the ground. Backup options Asmir Begovic and Joao Virginia have already left the club. Thus, they are reportedly targeting Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers, as per Sky Sports. The South Coast side wanted £10m off Stoke City for Travers back in 2024, so it is safe to assume his price tag will be similar this summer.
The Irish goalkeeper played five times for the Cherries last season, pulling off this impressive save away to Aston Villa, before spending the second half of the campaign on loan at Championship side Middlesbrough.
There, he kept four clean sheets in 17 games. He would certainly add Premier League experience and be an astute number two to Pickford.
Full list of goalkeepers – Jordan Pickford, Mark Travers
The defenders Depth at full-back after key contract extensions
One of the best pieces of news so far this summer for Everton is that Jarrad Branthwaite signed a new contract. He penned a five-year extension and is a key part of the project under Moyes. His commitment to the club must delight Toffees fans, given all the speculation of a move away.
He will likely be joined at centre-back by James Tarkowski. The pair formed a key partnership at the heart of the defence last term, playing 32 and 34 games respectively, according to Transfermarkt.
As for depth at centre-back, Michael Keane also signed a new contract this summer, and Jake O’Brien, who played lots at right-back too, last season. Club legend Seamus Coleman also put pen to paper on a new deal to remain at Everton for another season, and Nathan Patterson is also an option for Moyes at right-back.
They are still looking for a new full-back, with £8.5m left-back Anthony Caci of Mainz ‘a serious target’ according to TEAMTalk. He can play either side, but has most regularly played as a left-back as per Transfermarkt, making 102 career appearances as a left wing-back or full-back.
Borussia Dortmund'sDanielSvenssonin action with 1. FSV Mainz 05's Anthony Caci
Indeed, it certainly makes sense that Everton are looking for a new addition on that side, with Ashley Young’s departure leaving Vitalii Mykolenko the only left-back at the club. Caci, for a bargain price, could strengthen in that area.
Full list of right-backs – Seamus Coleman, Nathan Patterson
Full list of centre-backs – RCB (James Tarkowski, Jake O’Brien); LCB (Jarrad Branthwaite, Michael Keane)
Full list of left-backs – Anthony Caci, Vitalii Mykolenko
The midfielders Plenty of new faces in midfield
The middle of the park is where Everton will seemingly look to add great depth to their squad. Idrissa Gueye is another player to extend his contract on the Blue half of Merseyside, and he was a standout player for his side last season.
As per FBref, he made more tackles and interceptions with 181 and more ball recoveries with 194 than any of his teammates.
Tackles and interceptions
181
5.32
1st
Blocks
48
1.41
2nd
Ball recoveries
194
5.71
1st
Progressive passes
145
4.26
1st
Passes into final third
154
4.53
1st
Moyes would surely like to add another ball-winner in the midfield, which is why Wilfried Ndidi is a key target. GiveMeSport suggest a £5m fee would be enough to get the deal done, for a midfielder with 220 Premier League appearances to his name. As football talent scout Jacek Kulig said, he is a “beast” in the centre of the park.
James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam are also options for Moyes in midfield. The pair made 23 and 21 appearances respectively in 2024/25, but there is certainly a lack of experience in that area.
That is why an ambitious move for Aston Villa captain John McGinn could be on the cards. BBC Sport say they are ‘interested’ in the Scot, valued at £14m by Football Transfers.
It will be a tough deal to do, with Villans boss Unai Emery said to be ‘in no mood to part with’ McGinn, but he would certainly add to all areas of the pitch. Last season, he scored four times, including a stunner against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, and grabbed six assists.
As we now know, the Toffees have signed Alcaraz permanently, and he surely becomes the first-choice number 10 under Moyes. He contributed to five goals last season.
However, keep an eye on young Harrison Armstrong, who ‘appears in a position to press his first-team claims’, according to The Guardian.
Full list of central midfielders – Idrissa Gueye, Wilfred Ndidi, James Garner, Tim Iroegbunam, John McGinn
Full list of number tens – Carlos Alcaraz, Harrison Armstrong
The attackers Moyes' DCL replacement and two new RWs
One part of the forward line that seems sorted for the Toffees is the left wing. Their standout attacking player from last season, Iliman Ndiaye, will be vital again in 2025/26.
He scored 11 goals last term. The other player at Moyes’ disposal on the left is Dwight McNeil, who bagged five goals and assisted an impressive eight during the 2024/25 season.
Everton dream squad
On the other flank, the Toffees might look to make two new additions. The i Paper has linked two players who can slot in on the right, namely James McAtee of Manchester City for £25m, and Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo, who would cost upwards of £30m.
England under-21 international McAtee bagged seven goals in 27 games last term for the Citizens, as well as putting on a show in the Under-21 European Championship, which England won. He even grabbed an assist in the final. He can also play as a number 10.
As for Kubo, the 24-year-old played 52 times for Sociedad last term. He managed to score seven goals and grab four assists, playing mainly as a right-winger but also slotting in on the left at times, too.
Leading the line for Everton next season will be another new face, Thierno Barry of Villarreal. The Toffees have completed a £27m move for the 22-year-old French striker. Described as “menacing in the box” by football scout Antonio Mango, he bagged 19 goals in 41 games for the Yellow Submarine last term.
With Dominic Calvert-Lewin now departed, that leaves Moyes with Beto, a man who bagged ten times across all competitions last season, and youngster Chermiti, who only played four games, as his options to compete with Barry.
Full list of right-wingers – Takefusa Kubo, James McAtee
Full list of strikers – Thierno Barry, Beto, Chermiti
Full list of left-wingers – Iliman Ndiaye, Dwight McNeil
Moyes' best CM since Fellaini: Everton submit enquiry to sign £43m star
David Moyes has enjoyed plenty of quality midfielders at Everton, Marouane Fellaini chief amongst them, so could the Toffees sign another?
Chelsea are now ready to offer Blues players as part of a swap deal for an “unbelievable” Premier League and England star, according to a report.
Blues set sights on another attacker
The Blues have already strengthened their forward options considerably this summer, with the likes of Joao Pedro, Liam Delap and Jamie Gittens sealing moves to Stamford Bridge, but Enzo Maresca remains keen on adding another attacking midfielder to his ranks.
The west Londoners have ramped up their interest in a number of playmakers over the past few days, with Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers being identified as their top target, although there are two other exciting options on the shortlist.
Target
Current club
League G/A in 2024-25
Morgan Rogers
Aston Villa
19
Xavi Simons
RB Leipzig
17
Eberechi Eze
Crystal Palace
16
Maresca’s squad is arguably already bloated, meaning it could make sense to offload some unwanted players in swap deals for new signings, and a new report has revealed the Club World Cup champions plan to do exactly that.
Indeed, according to a report from The Boot Room, Chelsea are ready to offer players as part of a swap deal for Aston Villa’s Rogers, with Tosin Adarabioyo, Trevoh Chalobah and Benoit Badiashile among the potential options.
Villa have also expressed an interest in Nicolas Jackson, as Unai Emery is keen on reuniting with the former Villarreal man, so it may also make sense to use the 24-year-old as a makeweight in negotiations.
The Blues can arguably afford to get rid of Jackson, given that Delap and Pedro have arrived this summer, with the latter playing a major role in their Club World Cup triumph, scoring three goals throughout the tournament.
Should a swap deal not be possible, Chelsea may have to spend big to get a deal over the line, with Villa reportedly looking to receive over £90m.
"Unstoppable" Rogers could be statement signing for Chelsea
The west Londoners should be in a strong financial position after winning the Club World Cup, having raked in around £85m, meaning they may be able to afford to make another statement signing this summer.
The Villa star would be exactly that, having performed remarkably well across the 2024-25 campaign, proving himself in his debut season in the Champions League by collecting four goals and three assists in 12 outings.
Agent expected to offer Chelsea chance to sign £192k-a-week Eze alternative
A transfer twist that could shake up Chelsea’s attack.
ByEmilio Galantini Jul 19, 2025
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher has also been left impressed by the 22-year-old England international, describing him as “unstoppable”, and given the attacking midfielder’s age, he still has plenty of time to develop further.
Rogers could be a fantastic signing for Chelsea, and it would be an added bonus if they were able to get Jackson off the books as part of the deal, given that Pedro has already proven he is capable of leading the line next season.
Next season is shaping up to be a massively important one for Tottenham Hotspur.
New boss Thomas Frank has the job of improving and stabilising the club in the Premier League, while also ensuring they put in a good showing in the Champions League.
Fortunately, things have been going rather well so far this summer, with a win in their first pre-season game against Reading and an excellent performance from new signing Mohammed Kudus.
However, with the window open for another month or so, the North Londoners need to do more business, and it looks like they will, with them looking to sign someone who could be their answer to Xavi Simons.
Spurs target their own Simons
Simons has been grabbing plenty of headlines over the last week or so, as it looks like he’ll be leaving RB Leipzig this summer.
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Spurs have been linked with him in recent days, but as things stand, it looks like London rivals Chelsea and Arsenal are the most likely to secure his services.
While seeing a talented player go to your rivals is never ideal, the Lilywhites faithful shouldn’t fret, as it appears that they’re going big for someone who could be Frank’s answer to the Dutchman.
At least that’s according to a recent report from Sébastien Vidal, who claims Spurs are still very interested in signing Morgan Gibbs-White.
In fact, the journalist has revealed that the North Londoners “are preparing a final offer of £65m” for the England international.
It remains to be seen whether this will be enough, as Nottingham Forest have made it clear they do not want to sell the midfielder, and have even threatened the European League champions with legal action after they ‘triggered a reported £60m release clause.’
It could end up being a complicated and costly transfer to get done, but Gibbs-White has proven he’s worth the hassle, especially as he could be Frank’s answer to Simons.
Why Gibbs-White could be Spurs' Simons
So, while it’s true that there are some differences between the two players, it’s also undeniable that they share a lot in common, such as their position.
Nottingham Forest's MorganGibbs-Whitereacts after the match
For example, both players are now primarily viewed as attacking midfielders, but they can, and often do, play in other positions.
In the Dutchman’s case, he’s more than capable of playing across the frontline, while the Englishman can drop deeper into central midfield, or put in a shift on the right-wing, where he has 11 goal involvements in 24 games.
The second similarity is that both players are incredibly effective in their respective teams and look like they could reach another level in a better side.
For example, the “world-class” Forest ace, as dubbed by one Forest content creator, found the back of the net seven times and provided ten assists in just 34 league appearances last season, which works out to a goal involvement on average every other game.
Appearances
25
34
Goals
10
7
Assists
7
10
Goal Involvements per Match
0.68
0.50
For his efforts, the former PSV Eindhoven star scored ten goals and provided seven assists in 25 league games, which comes out to a goal involvement every 1.47 games.
Now, it’s certainly true that the 22-year-old’s numbers look better here, but it’s essential to take into consideration that the Premier League is comfortably the toughest league in the world, while the Bundesliga just about comes in as the third, and a distant one at that.
Finally, should the Lilywhites get their man, and Arsenal or Chelsea secure the former Paris Saint-Germain gem, then they’d both be making their way to a London-based ‘big six’ side, which will only invite more comparisons between them.
Ultimately, while it could prove difficult, Spurs should do what they can to sign Gibbs-White this summer, as he seems ready to explode at the right club, and he’d be a perfect answer to whoever signs Simons.
Better deal than Kudus: Spurs willing to pay £61m to sign "complete" star
Spurs are in talks to sign a Premier League star who is an even better signing than Mohammed Kudus for Thomas Frank.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has a key decision to make about the future of a big-name player this summer, with Premier League rivals now looking at tempting him with a move away.
Berta given £35m demand for seventh Arsenal signing after "initial talks"
Andrea Berta has been told exactly what he needs to do.
ByEmilio Galantini Jul 31, 2025
Berta’s key priority right now, according to Fabrizio Romano, is sealing some outgoings to balance the books – having already spent over £200 million on new additions this window.
Gyokeres is their latest official capture after he sealed a long-awaited £64 million move from Sporting CP last weekend, joining Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Noni Madueke and Cristhian Mosquera.
Eze would be a fine addition to this already-impressive crop of exceptional new talent, and Arsenal are believed to have already held initial talks with Crystal Palace. However, going by Romano’s update, exits will be necessary before they can formally bid.
Leandro Trossard faces a reported uncertain future at Arsenal given the Belgian has now entered the final 12 months of his contract. According to recent reports, Arsenal could sell Trossard this summer, rather than lose him for free in 2026.
The winger has offers to leave England with Borussia Dortmund keen (Florian Plettenberg), and Trossard isn’t the only forward who could quit before deadline day.
Reports earlier this month, specifically from talkSPORT, claimed Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr hold a serious interest in Gabriel Martinelli and were considering a £73 million bid, which would double Arsenal’s club-record sale of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to Liverpool in 2017.
£265,000-per-week striker Gabriel Jesus is another nominee for Berta’s chopping block, especially following Gyokeres’ arrival.
Arsenal poised to accept Gabriel Jesus offer as Premier League rivals line up
Jesus has attracted serious interest from Flamengo, according to recent reports from Brazil, with the 28-year-old also open to leaving the Emirates.
Right now, Jesus is in recovery from a crippling ACL rupture which ended his 2024/2025 season, and that potentially makes finding an outright buyer pretty difficult.
Nevertheless, according to well-connected former chief scout Mick Brown, who worked at Man United during their most successful period, top flight rivals are keen on signing Jesus from Arsenal.
“Arsenal are going to accept an offer for Jesus if their price is met.
“I think his best days are behind him, but he was still a reliable squad player at Arsenal until now. He hasn’t pulled up any trees, but he’s done alright. I think the thing for Arsenal has been that they need better than ‘alright’ and that’s why they’ve now gone out and spent all that money on Gyokeres.
“With him and Havertz there, it’s difficult to see where Jesus would fit in their plans.
“I hear there’s interest from a few teams in the Premier League, so that would be a good option. From his point of view, he’s going to want to go somewhere he can play at a high level but also play regular football, because he won’t get that at Arsenal.
“And from the club’s point of view, if they can make good money from him, they can spend it elsewhere. It’s the type of deal I think could work for all parties.”
The former Man City star signed for around £45 million on a long-term deal back in 2022, but has struggled to become that ’25 goal per season’ striker despite periods of excellent form.
Jesus enjoyed a real purple patch just last season, but that was immediately followed by his long-term injury in what was real bad luck for the ex-Palmeiras sensation. With just two years remaining on his deal, now could be the right time to sell Jesus if any suitor is prepared to take the plunge.