Crystal Palace will no doubt be eager to put this hectic summer transfer window behind them.
Unfortunately, not even sealing a double whammy of successes in the FA Cup and Community Shield would be able to keep Eberechi Eze fixed at Selhurst Park, with the former Eagles attacking midfielder poached by fellow Premier League side Arsenal late on.
However, Palace could make the window look a tad more rosy very soon, with a verbal agreement now reportedly in place for Oliver Glasner’s men to sign this £17m attacker.
Palace verbally agree deal for £17m star
The Eagles might well still wave goodbye to Marc Guehi before the 7pm deadline, but there will be rays of positivity all the same regarding one incoming.
As has been reported by Fabrizio Romano, via X, Getafe ace Christantus Uche is now in London to seal a late switch to Palace, with a deal between the La Liga outfit and Glasner and Co. verbally agreed.
Uche has been subject to widespread interest from the Premier League this summer, with Wolverhampton Wanderers even close at one point to bringing in the £17m star.
But, it looks as if the Eagles will be the winners for his coveted signature after all, as Uche now dreams of forming a terrifying duo up top with Palace man of the moment Jean-Philippe Mateta.
How Uche and Mateta could link up
Mateta would get the ball rolling for his beloved side against Aston Villa last time out, as this calmly tucked away penalty then opened the floodgates to hand the visitors a comfortable 3-0 victory.
That bumps up the clinical Frenchman’s early-season total to three goals from six clashes, and with Uche soon to be by his side by all accounts, his overall tally of 49 strikes for the Eagles will surely just rise and rise.
Games played
33
Goals scored
4
Assists
6
Touches*
34.4
Accurate passes*
11.6 (67%)
Big chances created
7
Total duels won*
6.8
The £17m Nigerian already has a goal and assist next to his name this season from just three La Liga encounters, but it’s his consistent excellence last season in the testing Spanish top-flight that will be music to the ears of Palace – and Mateta in particular – with Uche picking up six assists, despite only averaging a low 11.6 accurate passes per clash.
Mateta often only needs a split second to wreak havoc himself, with a mere 22.6 touches averaged per league game across his standout 2024/25 offering for Palace in the Premier League, but a lethal 14 strikes would still arrive at his door, nonetheless.
Moreover, the one-time Wolves target often uses his strength to fire away goals, as seen in his high 6.8 duels won on average during his breakout campaign in Spain, with four strikes also coming his way to be branded a “defender’s nightmare” by scout Antonio Mango.
Of course, Mateta – coming in at a lofty 6-foot-4 frame – has also often used his brute power as an advantage, with Arsenal great Thierry Henry even going as far as to herald the Selhurst Park fan favourite as an “old-fashioned striker” for his physical approach.
Crystal Palace's Jean-PhilippeMatetacelebrates after the match
With Eze heartbreakingly gone, adding in Uche could get the Palace fanbase back on side, particularly if he goes on to get even more out of an already red-hot Mateta.
After Pino: Crystal Palace now in advanced talks to sign "intelligent" star
Leeds United’s search for an attacking midfielder is ongoing as the deadline approaches and the 49ers have now reportedly submitted a fresh offer to sign their latest target.
Leeds' search for attacking additions
Daniel Farke has been clear since pre-season that Leeds need attacking reinforcements. And whilst Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor have arrived to provide the German with the start of a solution, the Whites are still searching for the missing piece in the form of an attacking midfielder.
Earlier this summer, it looked as though the versatile Igor Paixao was going to be the man to arrive for the Yorkshire club, only for Marseille to swoop in and hijack their move. The Brazilian would have been an excellent addition after scoring 18 goals and assisting another 19 in all competitions for Feyenoord in the last campaign. Nonetheless, the Whites were forced to turn elsewhere.
Contact made: Leeds now plotting last-gasp offer to sign "underrated" star
He’s in excellent form.
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Following Paixao, both Facundo Buonanotte and Gus Hamer emerged as options before the former opted to join Chelsea instead of moving to Elland Road – seemingly leaving just Hamer.
The Sheffield United star has been part of a struggling Blades side who are still getting over the heartbreak of last season’s playoff final defeat against Sunderland. Whether he remains a Sheffield United star is the big question. Leeds reportedly submitted an opening bid to sign the talented midfielder, but failed to match the Blades’ valuation.
Sheffield United's Gustavo Hamer in action.
When it comes to Premier League quality, meanwhile, there’s no doubt that Hamer is good enough to step up. The Sheffield United man was the star of the Championship last season and more than deserved a place in the top flight, but time will tell whether Leeds make that happen.
The bad news for Hamer is that he’s still not the only one on Leeds’ shortlist of options. He’s reportedly joined by a Premier League option, who has already been subject to an offer.
Leeds launch Buendia bid
As reported by The Telegraph’s John Percy, Leeds launched an opening offer to sign Emiliano Buendia before receiving a swift reply from the Argentine, who has decided to stay put in the Midlands.
It’s another blow for Leeds, whose offer wasn’t good enough for Hamer and project seemingly not attractive enough for Buendia to leave them back to square one in the final hours of the transfer window.
Like Hamer, Buendia would have been a quality option. The former Norwich City star was the subject of Unai Emery’s praise last season, with the Spaniard telling reporters: “Of course, I am very happy with a lot of players. Today, especially with Emi Buendia, because he has the option to leave but today we needed him and he played fantastic with his qualities, fantastic mentality and fantastic with his commitment with the squad.”
Chelsea chiefs are currently negotiating for both Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho and RB Leipzig playmaker Xavi Simons in what would be separate deals, with a move for the latter particularly advanced.
The prospect of both men arriving at Stamford Bridge is a particularly exciting one for supporters, with Enzo Maresca in need of more wide options after the departures of both Jadon Sancho and Noni Madueke, while Mykhailo Mudryk remains suspended for failing a drugs test.
Chelsea’s best performers in the Premier League last season
Average match rating
Cole Palmer
7.33
Moises Caicedo
7.02
Enzo Fernández
6.95
Nicolas Jackson
6.88
Noni Madueke
6.82
via WhoScored
Chelsea must make room for them by sealing more exits, though, despite already raising close to £220 million through player sales.
Cash isn’t the object for BlueCo, especially given their income via outgoings, winnings from the Club World Cup and qualifying for the Champions League next season.
Their need to sell first stems from a pact with UEFA, who have put pressure on the west Londoners to produce a ‘positive transfer balance’ by September after Chelsea were fined for breaching FFP rules last month.
Failure to do so could result in Maresca not being able to register new signings for their Champions League squad next season, so while talks remain advanced for Simons, Chelsea are attempting to strike more outgoings first.
Once they’ve trimmed the squad a bit more, Chelsea are also expected to bid for Garnacho with Simons (The Telegraph), so there is plenty more business to be conducted before the transfer deadline.
As has been a common theme since Todd Boehly/Clearlake Capital’s takeover of the club in 2022, Chelsea are pretty much always in the market for world football’s most eye-catching talents.
Chelsea fielded the youngest ever side in Premier League history last season (OptaJoe), so you can never rule out the prospect of more highly-rated gems making the move to Cobham.
Chelsea could sign 'exciting youngster' with Garnacho and Simons
Football Transfers have shared an update on this, and they report that another new addition could be made with Simons and Garnacho.
According to their information, Chelsea could sign another “exciting youngster” too – on the condition one becomes available in the next few weeks.
Under Boehly, the Blues have poured billions into snapping up teenage talent, and this summer is no different.
They’ve added Dario Essugo (20), Estevão Willian (18), Mamadou Sarr (19), Liam Delap (22), Jamie Gittens (20), Kendry Páez (18) and Jorrel Hato (19) – all on long-term deals designed to pay off years down the line.
16-year-old Kazakh striker Dastan Satpaev, who’s already been compared to Man City legend Sergio Agüero, will also join the club when he turns 18.
Nottingham Forest are now “ready” to make an offer of around £26m for a “machine”, but there could be fierce competition for his signature, journalist Gianluigi Longari has revealed.
Forest keen on midfielder amid Gibbs-White uncertainty
Morgan Gibbs-White was poised to join Tottenham Hotspur, with Forest’s Premier League rivals triggering the £60m release clause in the attacking midfielder’s contract, but the move is now very much up in the air.
The Tricky Trees have reported Spurs to the Premier League, as they feel an illegal approach was made for Gibbs-White, and the 25-year-old returned to training on Monday, indicating that a move has now stalled.
The England international is set to remain at the City Ground until a resolution can be found, and there will, of course, be hope that the maestro decides to stay put, given that he has performed remarkably well ever since Forest returned to the Premier League.
Season
PL appearances
Goals
Assists
2022-23
35
5
8
2023-24
37
5
10
2024-25
34
7
10
However, Forest appear to be eager to bring in a new central midfielder regardless of whether Gibbs-White leaves this summer, and they are now “ready” to make a new offer of around €30m (£26m) for Palmeiras star Richard Rios.
That is according to Longari on X, who states the Tricky Trees are set to “push” for Rios’ signature, but there could be fierce competition, with Benfica also ready to enter the race, while AS Roma are closely monitoring the situation.
Nottingham Forest register interest in race to sign "special" £25m winger
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ByBrett Worthington Jul 15, 2025
Not only that, but Wolverhampton Wanderers are also very keen on the midfielder, having recently submitted a £21m offer of their own, but the Tricky Trees now look ready to hijack the move with a larger bid.
"Machine" Rios ready to test himself in England
Despite predominantly featuring in a defensive midfield role, the Colombian has been a regular source of goals and assists for Palmeiras in all competitions during the 2025 campaign, collecting eight goal contributions in 35 appearances.
Richard Rios at the Club World Cup for Palmeiras against Porto.
Football scout Ben Mattinson has also praised the Palmeiras maestro for his ability to drive the ball further up the pitch, describing him as a “ball-carrying machine”, while also providing an overview of his key strengths.
The central midfielder would not be a like-for-like replacement for Gibbs-White, given that the 25-year-old usually features in a deep-lying role, but having impressed in Brazil for quite some time, he could now be ready to test himself in England.
As such, Rios could be a good acquisition for Forest, and Europa League football being on offer at the City Ground should give them the edge over Wolves in the race for his signature.
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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Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
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
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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?
Now that Russell Martin has officially been unveiled as the new Rangers manager, he has plenty of work to do if his team are going to be ready for the start of Champions League qualifying on 22/23 July, with Panathinaikos, Servette or Brann their potential opponents; the draw takes place next Tuesday.
With pivotal European ties just around the corner, Martin is eager to get his transfer business done early, so could it be all change in the striker department?
Rangers seeking a new striker
According to a report by Scott McDermott and Anthony Evans of the Daily Record, Rangers remain in talks with Maccabi Tel Aviv over the signing of striker Dor Turgeman, who they claim is valued at £4m.
Liav Nachmani of Israel Hayom previously documented that Turgeman has ‘expressed a willingness’ to join the Scottish giants, who have ‘been monitoring him for several months’, although the Israeli champions do not want to let him leave easily.
Born in Ashdod, Turgeman joined the Yellows as a 15 year old, making 109 senior appearances since his senior debut five years ago, scoring 32 goals.
This season, he was the third-highest scorer in Ligat HaAl with 16 goals, also on target four times in the Europa League, netting against Panevėžys and then TSC Bačka Topola twice as Maccabi Tel Aviv made it through qualifying, before also getting on the scoresheet against Real Sociedad in October.
Turgeman has international experience too, a key figure in the Israel side that reached the U21 Euros semi-finals two summers ago, earning eight senior caps to date, scoring against Norway in a World Cup qualifier in Debrecen back in March.
So now, could the 21 year old swap the Israeli Mediterranean coastline for Glasgow’s west end?
How Turgeman compares to Dessers
According to a report by Andrew Newport of the Daily Record, Greek side AEK Athens ‘are willing to spend big’ to sign Cyriel Dessers this summer, adding that the Nigerian striker is valued at £5m.
On top of this, Greek journalist Giannis Chorianopoulos of SporTime claims that the Yellow-Blacks are “in talks” with Rangers, so is now the right time to cash in?
Let’s assess Dessers’ statistics for the club since he arrived from Cremonese for a reported £4.5m two summers ago.
Cyriel Dessers’ Rangers career in statistics
Statistics
Dessers
Appearances
109
Minutes
6,845
Goals
51
Assists
16
Big chances missed
58
Statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt and SofaScore
As the table outlines, Dessers’ scoring record at Rangers has been impressive, on target every 134 minutes on average, but the fact he has missed 58 big chances across the Scottish Premiership and Europa League goes a long way to explaining why Alan Pattullo of the Scotsman describes him as a complex ‘enigma’.
Cyriel Dessers
So, would Turgeman be an upgrade? Let’s try and find out.
Cyriel Dessers vs Dor Turgeman 2024/25 comparison
Statistics
Dessers
Turgeman
Appearances
55
44
Minutes
3,423
2,887
Goals
29
20
Minutes per goal
118
144
Assists
7
6
Big chances missed
31
4
Big chances created
4
12
Shots on target (per 90)
1
0.7
Shots on target %
50%
37.5%
Touches per 90
29.1
31.6
Touches in opposition box per 90
5.5
3.1
Average Sofascore Rating
6.81
7.10
Statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt, Squawka and SofaScore
As the table outlines, while Dessers did score more goals this season, Turgeman’s underlying statistics are broadly more impressive, missing 27 fewer big chances, creating eight more big chances and registering a greater number of touches per 90.
Writer Kai Watson describes the Israeli international as a strong ball carrier and “lethal inside the box”, while Nene Afadzinu of Football Talent Scout praises his ‘excellent first touch’, hold-up play and close-control, adding that he is capable of being deployed as a team’s ‘focal point’ considering he ‘relishes a duel’ and ‘presses intensely’.
Meantime, Rui Martins of Total Football Analysis outlines how Turgeman’s physical attributes give him a ‘significant competitive advantage’, believing he ‘is ready to be tested at a higher level’.
Thus, if Rangers are able to sell 30 year old Dessers and sign 21-year-old Turgeman for a lower fee, this would appear a no-brainer of an upgrade.
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As Russell Martin starts his overhaul of Rangers’ squad, could he sign a “class” midfielder in a deal reminiscent of John Lundstram’s move to Ibrox?
Fulham are now primed to move for a 23-goal striker who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer, according to a report.
Cottagers eyeing new striker amid Silva uncertainty
There has been doubt over Marco Silva’s future in west London for quite some time, with Tottenham Hotspur among the clubs keen on the Portuguese manager, and the latest update from BBC Sport’s Simon Stone doesn’t exactly do much to allay fears.
Stone said: “They have just had their third mid-table finish but I got the strong feeling around March-time that Silva felt Europe, either through the league or FA Cup, was a possibility. He will want improvement. If he doesn’t think he will get it, Silva is bound to start looking at his options.”
As such, the hierarchy may feel the need to build a squad capable of competing for a place in Europe next season, in order to tempt Silva into staying, and they have now set their sights on a new striker target.
Fulham managerMarcoSilvabefore the match
Indeed, according to a report from The Express, Fulham are now primed to pounce on a deal for Hamburg striker Davie Selke, who is in line to leave the German club on a free transfer this summer, should he be unable to agree a new deal.
Remaining at Hamburg is a possibility, but there is certainly no shortage of interest from elsewhere, which could turn the forward’s head, with West Ham United and Leeds United also being named as potential suitors.
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RB Leipzig are in pole position to sign the 30-year-old, however, which could make a deal difficult to orchestrate for the Cottagers, and they have a number of other potential alternative options on their shortlist.
Selke in high demand after firing Hamburg to promotion
Hamburg finally ended their seven-year Bundesliga absence this season, securing a second-place finish to clinch promotion, and the German forward played a fundamental role in their success, scoring 23 goals in all competitions.
Former FC Köln manager Steffen Baumgart has also given an overview of the marksman’s abilities in the past, saying: “He creates spaces for his teammates, he can be nasty for the opponent and gives presence in the penalty area.”
Raul Jimenez enjoyed a solid 2024-25 campaign, netting 12 Premier League goals, but it could be a smart move to bring in a striker capable of competing for the Mexican’s spot, considering he is now 34-years-old and arguably in his twilight years.
A track record of goals in the German second tier doesn’t necessarily mean Selke would be a success in the Premier League, but given that he is set to be available on a free transfer, it is certainly worth Fulham taking a punt this summer.
The Liverpool and Manchester City duopoly in the Premier League continues. Arne Slot has taken the title from Pep Guardiola, ending four years of dominance and doing so in his first season at the helm.
As all of a Liverpool persuasion will be aware, it’s gearing up to be a significant summer for the Anfield side, with sporting director Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards, FSG’s chief executive of football operations, planning for a wave of first-team investment.
Richard Hughes and Arne Slot
Last year, City enjoyed their record-breaking fourth Premier League title in succession, and most thought that they would retain their throne once more. Or, otherwise, fall against an Arsenal side that has been on the rise for several years now.
But it wasn’t to be. Liverpool, still bruised from Jurgen Klopp’s decision to step down from his long-held seat in the Anfield dugout, have been head-and-shoulders above their rivals since the early knockings.
Candidly, clinching the title has almost looked a formality since January, with the Darwin Nunez-inspired victory at Brentford lifting the Reds six points clear of second-place Arsenal, and with a game in hand at that.
But there’s been something missing. Nunez isn’t good enough and will be sold this summer, while various concerns relating to defence will call for change there too. However, Liverpool will jump on a new centre-midfielder if an opportunity presents itself.
The missing piece in Liverpool's midfield
In fairness, Liverpool’s midfield doesn’t need to undergo major surgery. Klopp’s dramatic rebuild of 2023 has proved a bona fide success, with Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch starting the lion’s share of Liverpool’s Premier League fixtures and Wataru Endo earning cult status for his combative cameos.
Ryan Gravenberch, Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai for Liverpool
Curtis Jones, 24, has also enjoyed the outstanding season of his career thus far, starting 17 league games and earning praise from his manager for his “complete” take on the midfield game.
It’s remarkable that these players have stepped up and delivered England’s prized trophy after FSG failed to convince Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi to leave the Basque Country and join this new project.
Liverpool opted against signing a different deep-lying midfielder and were met with frustration from supporters, derision from rivals. Gravenberch’s incredible rise from a previously middling role has been the core of Liverpool’s successful season.
Matches (starts)
26 (12)
34 (34)
Goals
1
0
Assists
0
4
Touches*
28.8
67.3
Pass completion
83%
89%
Key passes*
0.6
0.7
Dribbles*
0.9
1.0
Ball recoveries*
2.8
5.3
Tackles + interceptions*
1.5
3.6
Duels (won)*
2.8 (47%)
5.0 (58%)
Indeed, the owners’ decision has been vindicated now that Slot has sealed the club’s record-equalling 20th top-flight trophy.
There have been times when the engine room has looked a little tired of late, namely during costly defeats against Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final.
Arne Slot celebrates Liverpool's Premier League triumph
If the right player comes along, Liverpool will pounce, with one of the Premier League’s finest very much on Hughes’ radar.
Liverpool learn conditions for PL star
According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool have learned that it will take a mammoth fee of £80m to convince Crystal Palace to part with Adam Wharton this summer.
Liverpool are keen admirers of the deep-lying playmaker, who has been a revelation since joining the Eagles from Blackburn Rovers in the Championship last year for a £18m fee.
The 21-year-old is also on Man United’s radar, but given that he fits the profile to jockey with Gravenberch for that number six spot, it might be the perfect move for Slot’s fluid system.
Why Adam Wharton is perfect for Slot
Liverpool’s current midfielders have cemented their legacies and then some, joining the illustrious names of old: Fabinho, Gini Wijnaldum, Jordan Henderson, Steven Gerrard, Xabi Alonso.
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton
Wharton has the talent to add his name too, hailed as an “unbelievable talent” by BBC analyst Raj Chohan after his incredible start to life in Oliver Glasner’s Palace team last season.
This term, despite injuries, he has played a big part for his London-based side, actually earning praise from respected journalist Henry Winter for being a “passing machine” as Aston Villa were comprehensively defeated in the FA Cup semi-final, also hailing him as “the best player on the pitch.” Big-game quality, confirmed.
As per FBref, he actually ranks among the top 8% of midfielders across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for both progressive passes and ball recoveries, the top 12% for shot-creating actions and the top 15% for assists per 90, perfectly illustrating his passing prowess and an athleticism that Slot seems to desire so greatly.
Wharton still has much to learn, but with such exciting ball-playing skills, he could take the shape of a former Liverpool star like Alonso, slotting into a similar role for the Reds’ flourishing coach.
Alonso might be one of the most esteemed managers at present, leading Bayer Leverkusen to an invincible domestic double last year and now the firm favourite to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid, but he was once a superstar of a midfielder.
A Spanish maestro, Alonso starred across, winning the Champions League and FA Cup across five campaigns before walking that well-trodden path from Anfield to the Spanish capital, sold to Madrid in a £30m package back in 2009.
Xabi Alonso in action for Liverpool.
Gerrard once claimed that Alonso was his “favourite partner for club and country,” with the 43-year-old’s silky and cerebral approach to the midfield game something that opened up new lanes from which the robust Three Lions star could travel.
Wharton boasts a similarly high footballing IQ and could take the likes of Mac Allister and Gravenberch to the next level.
Transfer Focus
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Adding Wharton to the fold would certainly serve to elevate Slot’s existing midfield options, with the young playmaker operating in a deep-set role to influence and advance fluency in a similar vein to a former Liverpool hero named Alonso.
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Chelsea have made an offer to sign a Real Madrid sensation in the last few days, with Los Blancos also replying to the proposal from Enzo Maresca’s side.
Chelsea win London derby with 1-0 victory over Tottenham
Enzo Fernández scored the only goal to pile more pressure on Ange Postecoglou as Chelsea sealed a 1-0 London derby victory over Spurs at Stamford Bridge on Thursday.
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Chelsea dominated the early stages, but failed to take advantage of some truly questionable defending from the visitors until Fernandez finally broke the deadlock with a free header inside the penalty area.
Moises Caicedo also had a screamer ruled out for offside, but Maresca was nearly made to pay for only having a one-goal advantage late in the game. Pape Matar Sarr’s excellent equaliser was chalked off for a foul in the build-up, and it took an excellent save from Robert Sanchez to deny Son Heung-min.
Brentford (away)
April 6th
Ipswich Town (home)
April 13th
Fulham (away)
April 20th
Everton (home)
April 26th
Liverpool (home)
May 4th
“I just said to the players, since day one we don’t work every day to win the game in the way we win and play in the last 10 minutes,” said Maresca on Chelsea’s nervy end to the contest.
“In terms of waiting for them and give the ball to them. But if you want to become a team, I think you need also to learn and to play in the way we played in the last 10 minutes. Win a game in a dirty way. Because I think for 90 minutes until extra time we were in control, we created enough chances to win the game. We created enough chances in the first half.
“And then to be honest, that’s been my mistake [bringing Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Tosin Adarabioyo on for Cole Palmer and Fernandez] because I did the change before I saw the extra time. And when I saw 12 minutes, I saw that probably it was too early to make that kind of change. But fortunately, we won the game, and we are happy.”
The result will go a long way in Chelsea’s race for Champions League qualification, which in turn will help them attract Europe’s best players.
Chelsea make £59m offer to Real Madrid for Endrick
On their transfer activity, quite a big claim has emerged from the Spanish media, involving Real Madrid striker Endrick.
The Brazilian hasn’t exactly been a mainstay for Carlo Ancelotti, but did play a role in their thrilling 4-4 Copa del Rey semi-final draw with Real Sociedad earlier this week, a result which booked their place in the final. Endrick has also been called a “special” young striker by pundits from his native Brazil.
“The boy is special, no doubt about it,” said ex-Manchester City star Elano to FourFourTwo.
Brazil'sEndrickduring the warm up
“He belongs to that group of super-talented players that Brazil has produced in the past: Neymar, Ronaldinho, Ronaldo and others. He’s another rare case of a youngster who convinces everyone they’re special; youngsters born with incredible talent.”
Now, Spanish media report that Chelsea made a £59 million offer to Real for Endrick right after the Copa del Rey semi-final on Tuesday.
Maresca’s side believe he’s the ideal candidate to lead their forward line, prompting them to swoop in with a proposal before the summer window. However, they’re set to be left disappointed, as the La Liga heavyweights have no intention of accepting this bid.
While Chelsea would also offer Endrick a good salary, and the South American is dissatisfied with his game time right now, he’s also showing no desire to leave and Real are just as reluctant.
It is unclear whether Chelsea will return with a counteroffer, but it appears they may have to move on to alternative striker targets. Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap is among the other centre-forwards on Maresca’s transfer list.