Liverpool would “without a doubt” look to replace Luis Diaz with “world-class” trophy-laden player this summer, according to an exciting new update.
The latest on Diaz's Liverpool future
The future of Diaz continues to be a big talking point at Anfield this summer, with the Colombian pushing for a move away, amid strong interest from Bayern Munich.
The Bundesliga champions have already seen a bid rejected, but it looks as though they will return with an improved offer for the 28-year-old, especially after Jamal Musiala suffered a broken ankle at the Club World Cup, and the fact that they were beaten by Liverpool to the signing of Florian Wirtz.
Reds supporters are split over the idea of Diaz departing this summer, with some feeling he is a vital player, having scored 17 goals in all competitions last season, helping Arne Slot’s side win the Premier League title.
Others believe the winger isn’t a truly elite attacker, however, and given his age, they would be happy to see Liverpool cash in on him, signing a superior option in the process.
Liverpool backed to sign "world-class" superstar
According to a new update from L’Equipe [via Get French Football News], Liverpool will “without a doubt” look to sign Rodrygo if Diaz goes this summer.
The 24-year-old has been mentioned as an option for the Reds plenty of times in recent weeks, with the Brazilian potentially looking to leave Real Madrid, having not been a key part of new manager Xabi Alonso’s plans during the Club World Cup.
The idea of Rodrygo in a Liverpool shirt is a mouthwatering prospect, given his reputation as one of the best wide forwards in European football.
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He has excelled for Madrid, even if he hasn’t always made as many headlines as the likes of Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, being hailed as “world-class” by Luka Modric and earning praise from Carlo Ancelotti.
Rodrygo is four years younger than Diaz, and simply a better player, as a tally of 119 goal contributions in 270 appearances highlights, so signing the former to replace the latter could be inspired business by Liverpool, with the Brazil star having the potential to become an icon on Merseyside.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that the club will bring in another central defender before the transfer window slams shut at the start of September.
The Hoops swooped to sign Hayato Inamura on a permanent deal earlier this month, but the Japanese defender is one for the future and another option in that area of the pitch is expected.
Rodgers already has Auston Trusty, Liam Scales, Dane Murray, Stephen Welsh, and Cameron Carter-Vickers in the centre-back positions, on top of the signing of Inamura, and they are looking for another.
CelticWay have reported that the club are weighing up a possible move to sign Dutch central defender Justin De Haas from Famalicão to add to their ranks.
The 25-year-old, left-footed, titan is valued at £3m by the Portuguese outfit, and could come in to compete for a place at the heart of the Hoops defence.
The role that Justin De Haas could play for Celtic
The potential signing of the Famalicão titan is an interesting one for the Scottish giants, because it would leave Rodgers with three left-footed centre-back options, in him, Scales, and Trusty.
Last season, the manager said that he prefers to play centre-backs on the side of their stronger foot because it “allows you to get through the pitch quicker and have more speed playing forward”, which suggests that De Haas will be competing with Trusty and Scales.
Based on their respective performances at league level in the 2024/25 campaign, De Haas’ biggest hurdle to making the starting XI could be the Ireland international.
Trusty joined from Sheffield United last summer and endured a difficult campaign in Scotland, as he ended the season as a back-up option behind Scales, and the Dutch star could come in as an upgrade on him.
Appearances
29
22
26
Goals
2
1
2
Tackles + interceptions per game
3.0
2.3
1.9
Dribbled past per game
0.3x
0.5x
0.2x
Clearances per game
5.4
4.0
4.8
Error led to shot
0
4
1
Error led to goal
1
1
0
Penalties committed
0
0
1
As you can see in the table above, De Haas could even offer more to the team than Scales, with more defensive actions and fewer errors leading to shots, goals, or penalties overall.
Liam Scales
This suggests that he could be a starting-calibre left-sided centre-back option for Celtic if he can translate his form over to the Scottish Premiership, but there is also the possibility that he is a second-choice to Scales, with Trusty demoted to a reserve.
Overall, given he will need to adapt to the league, De Haas could be a back-up centre-back at first, which is why their pursuit of a new winger is an even more exciting prospect.
Celtic in talks to sign new winger
According to the Daily Record, Celtic want to spend the money they are set to rake in from Como for Nicolas Kuhn to sign two new wingers this summer.
The German forward is set to sign for the Italian side for a reported fee of £16.5m, which will provide the Hoops with funds to dip into the market themselves.
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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.
This latest report from the Daily Record states that the Scottish Premiership champions are locked in talks with Royal Antwerp over a deal for Belgian winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha.
The outlet states that Royal Antwerp value the forward at a fee of around £5m, but they may lower it in order to push a transfer through in the coming weeks.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha against Porto in the Champions League.
It adds that the 24-year-old attacker, who predominantly plays on the left flank, is keen on a switch to Parkhead this summer, which suggests that personal terms would not be too much of a problem if a fee can be agreed.
Why Balikwisha would be an exciting signing
Balikwisha would be an even more exciting signing than De Haas for Celtic this summer because he could slot straight into the starting XI from the first match.
Jota is set to miss the first half of the season with a knee injury, having suffered an ACL blow last term, and that has left a vacant spot on the left wing ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha for Royal Antwerp.
Until a new senior centre-forward is in the building, Daizen Maeda could continue where he left off as the starting number nine, which means that he would not be the starter on the left flank. Therefore, Balikwisha could have a free run at the left wing position to be a starter in the Premiership.
This means that, unlike De Haas, Celtic supporters could expect to see the Belgian wizard in the starting line-up when the Hoops host St Mirren at Parkhead on the opening day in August.
As well as being a potential frontline starter, which the Dutch defender may not initially be, Balikwisha could also be a more exciting signing because he is an attacking player who has the potential to deliver goals and assists.
Starts
27
12
xG
6.46
2.65
Goals
7
4
Big chances created
6
7
Key passes per game
1.5
1.6
Assists
5
3
As you can see in the table above, Balikwisha has produced 11 goals and 13 ‘big chances’ created in his last 39 starts in the Belgian top-flight for Royal Antwerp.
The 24-year-old star was described as a “creative” talent by analyst Will Glavin, which is backed up by his return of seven ‘big chances’ created in 12 starts in the Pro League last season.
Balikwisha is a winger who has shown that he has the ability to deliver goals and assists at a fairly impressive rate in Belgium, which suggests that he could thrive in a dominant Celtic team that wins week-in-week-out.
The £5m-rated star could get supporters off their feet with his quality in the final third, as the anticipation could build whenever he picks the ball up in space out on the left flank.
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Therefore, the Royal Antwerp wing wizard could be an even more exciting signing than De Haas due to his potential to be an immediate starter, as well as him being an attack-minded player, rather than a centre-back.
Tottenham Hotspur’s long-awaited trophy finally came at the end of this season, but attention has quickly turned to the 2025/26 campaign, with work needing to be done to sustain the success.
Ange Postecoglou led the Lilywhites to a Europa League triumph, but it wasn’t enough to save his job in North London, as Daniel Levy relieved the Aussie of his duties.
He subsequently appointed Thomas Frank, handing the Dane the responsibility of building on the European victory and making the side a competitive Premier League outfit.
He will need to make a quick start to life at the club to prove the owner made the right decision in opting for a change, potentially coming under huge pressure should he fail to deliver.
However, if he is to be a success in the role, he will need backing within the current transfer window, handing him the platform for success during his first season at the helm.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer
Over the last couple of days, Lyon star Georges Mikautadze has emerged as a key target for Spurs, with the club expected to make an offer for the Georgian forward after their relegation to Ligue 2.
Rodrigo Muniz is another player on their radar this window, but will cost a pretty penny during the off-season, as Fulham are demanding £50m for the Brazilian forward.
However, if either of the players are to move to North London, they will need to be provided with opportunities in the final third, with Xavi Simons a player in their sights, according to GIVEMESPORT.
Their report claims that the RB Leipzig star is keen on a move to the Premier League this window, but the German outfit are demanding a fee in the region of £60m to part with their star man.
It also states that the Lilywhites have registered a keen interest in the 22-year-old, who managed to register 10 goals and seven assists in the Bundesliga this campaign, with contact already taking place as the north Londoners have been ‘updated on Simons’ situation by his representatives’.
Why Spurs’ £60m target would be a better signing than Eze
Over the last couple of years, Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze has been constantly on Spurs’ radar, but they’ve never been able to complete a deal for his signature.
Crystal Palace's EberechiEzecelebrates with the trophy after winning the FA Cup
This window remains no different, with Frank already targeting the England international and considering making a move to take the star to North London.
His stock is undoubtedly higher this time around, after netting the winner in the FA Cup final this campaign, securing the Eagles’ first major trophy against Manchester City at Wembley.
However, he does currently have a £68m release clause in his contract, but could face huge pressure to land his services, as North London rivals Arsenal have also entered the race.
As a result, the Lilywhites hierarchy should shift their attention to a move for Simons, with the Dutch international a better option for Frank’s outfit this window.
Xavi Simons celebrates
He would provide the side with a younger and cheaper option, but when comparing the pair’s respective figures from 2024/25, he’s also managed to outperform him in key areas – subsequently making him a higher-quality addition.
Simons, who’s been labelled “exceptional” by OptaJohan, has completed more of the passes he’s attempted, and posted more progressive passes per 90 – handing other attackers at the club the chance to bolster their own tallies.
Games played
25
34
Goals scored
10
8
Progressive carries
3.6
2.4
Progressive passes
5.9
3.3
Shot-on-target accuracy
46%
27%
Pass accuracy
79%
74%
Passes into final third
3.3
1.7
Carries into final third
3
1.6
The youngster has also starred with his ball-carrying, registering nearly two times more carries into the final third per 90, showcasing his desire to get forward at any given moment.
Given his age, price tag and difference in figures produced, a deal for Simons should be a no-brainer this window, offering Frank the elite-level talent he craves within the final third.
It would be an expensive addition for the hierarchy, but ultimately, it’s one that’s needed if the club are to reach the next level during the Dane’s tenure at the club.
There’s no denying that Eze is a hugely talented player, but it’s evident that there is a tendency for more expensive fees to be touted for English stars, subsequently making Simons the better option this window.
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Tottenham Hotspur appear to be making strides in a move to land a new talent for Thomas Frank.
Manchester United’s summer could be defining for Ruben Amorim in his tenure at Old Trafford, needing a huge summer to transform his fortunes at the club.
The 40-year-old has already wasted very little time in the transfer market, completing a £62.5m deal for Wolverhampton Wanderers attacker Matheus Cunha.
After scoring 15 Premier League goals this campaign, the Brazilian will likely improve the options currently at the club, helping the manager in his quest to take them back to their former glory.
Wolverhampton Wanderers'MatheusCunha
However, he will likely need to be joined in the attacking third by numerous other additions, with Jason Wilcox attempting to work his magic during the off-season.
Various other players have been mentioned with a potential switch to Old Trafford ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, with the Red Devils in desperate need of an overhaul.
The latest on United’s hunt for new attackers
Given United’s measly tally of 44 league goals this season, it’s clear that additions are needed in such a department to transform the situation currently unfolding at the Theatre of Dreams.
Players such as Callum Hudson-Odoi, Dušan Vlahović and Jean-Philippe Mateta have all been mentioned as targets this window, but no deals have yet been agreed for any of the aforementioned stars.
Juventus' DusanVlahovicduring the warm up
However, another player has entered the mix over the last couple of days, in the form of Bryan Mbeumo, with the Brentford forward edging closest to a move, according to German journalist Christopher Michel.
He claims that the Red Devils are becoming “optimistic of finalising” a deal for the 25-year-old for the start of their pre-season ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
It’s also reported that Thomas Frank is trying to hijack a deal for the £70m star, looking to take the Cameroonian with him to North London after being appointed Tottenham Hotspur manager.
Why United’s £70m target could be incredible alongside Ekitike
United’s hunt for new additions has seen no sign of slowing down in recent days, with Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitiké firmly in their sights, according to Sky Germany.
Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike
They claim that the Red Devils have made contact with the Bundesliga side over a move for the 22-year-old star, who’s registered 22 goals across all competitions in 2024/25.
It’s also reported that the French international has a €100m (£84m) release clause in his deal, but they face a battle with other Premier League sides, with Arsenal and Chelsea also in the race for his signature.
It remains to be seen if the club would be able to fork out such a fee for the Frankfurt talisman, especially after completing a deal for Cunha and edging closer to a move to land Mbeumo.
However, it’s a move they should pursue, with the Bees attacker having all the tools to form a deadly combination with Ekitike within the final third at Old Trafford.
Brentford's BryanMbeumoreacts
The Cameroonian, who’s been labelled “unbelievable” by one analyst, may have scored 20 league goals this season, but he’s also demonstrated his creative nature throughout the 2024/25 season.
He’s registered 3.7 progressive passes and 1.9 key passes per 90, having the skillset to provide Ekitike with the ammunition needed to succeed in front of goal should he move to Manchester.
Games played
38
Goals & assists
27
Progressive passes
3.7
Progressive carries
3.4
Key passes made
1.9
Passes into opposition box
1.6
Crosses completed
5.3
Take-on success
48%
Mbeumo has also registered 1.6 passes into the opposition box per 90, whilst completing 5.3 crosses per 90, with his ability to cause carnage certainly aiding other attackers at Old Trafford.
£70m may appear to be another massive investment from the hierarchy, given the early business conducted this summer, but it’s one that would add a different dimension to Amorim’s attack.
The prospect of the Bees’ star partnering the French star alongside Cunha in the final third is certainly an exciting one, with the trio single-handedly hoping to push the club back up the table next campaign.
He's better than Cunha: Man Utd in talks to sign £40m Ekitike alternative
Manchester United appear to be making moves to land a star who could sign ahead of Viktor Gyokeres.
Attention is already turning to the new 2025/26 Premier League season, with promoted sides Leeds United, Burnley and Sunderland looking to buck the recent trend and avoid relegation at the first time of asking.
Liverpool, under Arne Slot, will be the defending champions, whereas Pep Guardiola is leading a Manchester City rebuild. Arsenal and Mikel Arteta will finally be hoping that this is their year, while Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur will be looking to improve on their terrible domestic campaigns last time around.
Grok, the AI tool on X, relayed by Birmingham World, has already predicted the 2025/26 Premier League table, looking at how many points each team will collect, including their goal difference.
AI 2025/26 Premier League table in pictures:
1
Liverpool
38
88
+42
2
Arsenal
38
80
+30
3
Man City
38
78
+28
4
Newcastle
38
72
+22
5
Chelsea
38
68
+18
6
Aston Villa
38
65
+12
7
Nottingham Forest
38
62
+10
8
Tottenham
38
60
+8
9
Brighton
38
58
+6
10
Fulham
38
55
+4
11
Man Utd
38
54
+2
12
Everton
38
52
0
13
West Ham
38
50
-2
14
Bournemouth
38
48
-5
15
Brentford
38
46
-8
16
Leeds Utd
38
42
-12
17
Crystal Palace
38
40
-15
18
Wolves
38
38
-20
19
Burnley
38
34
-25
20
Sunderland
38
30
-30
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Starting the countdown at the bottom of the table, AI thinks Championship playoff winners Sunderland will finish in 20th place.
They believe Regis Le Bris’ side will accumulate 30 points, though, 18 more than Southampton, who were 20th in 24/25.
19 19th: Burnley (34 points, -25 GD)
Another newly promoted side, Burnley are believed to be the next side to go down. Scott Parker worked wonders at Turf Moor in his first campaign, conceding just 16 goals in 46 games and ending on 100 points.
However, potentially losing some of those defensive stars, including goalkeeper James Trafford, could see the Clarets struggle.
18 18th: Wolves (38 points, -20 GD)
Wolves have been flirting with the bottom three in the 23/24 and 24/25 seasons, and AI thinks 25/26 is the year they are going down.
After losing Matheus Cunha to Man Utd, the Old Gold will need to replace their top scorer and could struggle under Vitor Pereira.
17 17th: Crystal Palace (40 points, -15 GD)
Crystal Palace manager OliverGlasnerapplauds fans after the match
Just avoiding the drop are the 24/25 FA Cup winners Crystal Palace. AI claims that the fixture congestion from Europe could see them struggle in the Premier League.
Another problem for the Eagles is player sales, with the likes of Eberechi Eze, Marc Guehi and Jean-Philippe Mateta all being linked with moves away from Selhurst Park.
16 16th: Leeds United (42 points, -12 GD)
Leeds United manager DanielFarkecelebrates after the match
AI feels that Leeds United, the Championship title winners, could buck the trend and avoid relegation by finishing on 42 points.
If they do, the Whites, who won the second tier title in stoppage time on the final day, will be the first side since the 2022/23 season to get promoted and remain in the Premier League.
15 15th: Brentford (46 points, -8 GD)
Brentford managerThomasFrankbefore the matc
Despite a top 10 finish in 24/25, Brentford are next on the list, with AI believing Bryan Mbeumo’s potential departure could result in a drop-off for Thomas Frank’s side.
Mbeumo scored 20 of the Bees’ 66 goals last season but could be on his way to Man Utd, which may see them slide down the table.
14 14th: Bournemouth (48 points, -5 GD)
Another side who finished in the top 10 last season, Bournemouth, could also be in line to lose some of their star players.
Already selling Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid, Milos Kerkez and Antoine Semenyo are also in demand, with AI feeling that any sales will negatively impact the Cherries.
13 13th: West Ham (50 points, -2 GD)
West Ham United manager GrahamPotter
One side that AI feels will slightly improve from 24/25 is West Ham, who finished 14th in the previous campaign on 43 points.
Graham Potter is preparing for his first full season in charge at the London Stadium and will be looking to make his mark in the transfer window.
12 12th: Everton (52 points, 0 GD)
Everton manager DavidMoyesbefore the match
Another team AI think will finish one place higher than 24/25 is Everton. David Moyes came in and steadied the ship for the Toffees and will be leading them at their new stadium in 25/26.
It is added that keeping hold of star defender Jarrad Branthwaite and adding depth to the side is key, though.
11 11th: Manchester United (54 points, +2 GD)
Manchester United manager RubenAmorimbefore the match
Things couldn’t have gone much worse for Man Utd in 24/25, so AI does have them finishing higher but still in the bottom half with 54 points.
‘Integrating new signings and addressing defensive frailties’ under Ruben Amorim in a 3-4-3 system could still see the Red Devils struggle, ending 12 points and four places better off.
Ipswich Town are now in talks to sign a “fantastic” midfielder who manager Kieran McKenna is a big admirer of, chairman Mark Ashton has revealed.
Ipswich preparing for life in the Championship
It was always going to be a tall order for Ipswich to avoid relegation from the Premier League, but much like when Burnley went down under Sean Dyche the first time around, Ipswich seemingly think they can come straight back up if they stick by their manager.
However, there are now some doubts surrounding McKenna’s future at Portman Road, with widespread reports suggesting the 39-year-old could be Brentford’s first-choice target to replace Thomas Frank, should the Danish manager complete a move to Tottenham Hotspur.
Having led the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions, it will be a difficult task to find an heir to the Englishman, while signing a replacement for Liam Delap could also be tricky, given the 22-year-old managed to score an impressive 12 goals in his debut Premier League campaign.
Middlesbrough’s Emmanuel Latte Lath is one of the targets to replace Delap at striker, but Ashton has revealed that Ipswich are also looking to reinforce their midfield this summer.
The chairman has now confirmed that talks have been held over a deal for former loanee Jens Cajuste, saying: “Jens is a loan player who I think has done really well for us.
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“He’s had some challenges with injury this season, which have been well documented.
“Our conversations with Jens are ongoing. A deal for Jens to be here for the long term, it would need to be something that’s right for us, him and his club – and that dialogue continues.”
Mckenna has also admitted he’s a big fan of the midfielder, adding: “We’ve loved having Jens here, but there’s probably a lot to do for that to happen. We’ll see what the next few weeks brings.”
"Fantastic" Cajuste could be real coup for Ipswich
The Ipswich boss was clearly impressed by the Swedish midfielder’s performances last season, praising him for showing “fantastic character” against Nottingham Forest in April, and given that the manager knows the 25-year-old very well, he could be an ideal signing.
Not only does the £35k-a-week maestro have Premier League experience, but he has previously featured regularly for Napoli in Serie A and Reims in Ligue 1, so the Tractor Boys securing a permanent deal could be a real statement of intent.
McKenna certainly knows what it takes to win promotion, and the signing of Cajuste could fuel his side’s Championship title bid next season, although Luton Town suffering back-to-back relegations to League 1 should serve as a warning to not get carried away.
With the season officially over, Arsenal have what might just be their most important summer in years to contend with.
Mikel Arteta might have helped to utterly transform the team since taking the job in 2019, but with a third Premier League runners-up medal on the bounce this year, there is an undeniable feeling that next season has to see the North Londoners lift a significant honour.
While keeping his key players fit will undoubtedly help the Spaniard with this objective, it’s arguably just as, if not more important, for new Sporting Director Andrea Berta and the board to bring in the right, needle-moving signings over the next few weeks and months.
Arsenal manager MikelArtetaduring a lap of appreciation after the match
Fortunately, they may be in the process of doing that, as recent reports have linked the club with one of the most exciting wingers on the continent, someone who’d be a massive Gabriel Martinelli upgrade.
Arsenal's winger search
Before we get to the superstar in question, it’s worth looking at some of the other wide talents who have been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal in recent weeks and months, like Nico Williams and Rayan Cherki.
Transfer Focus
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The former has a release clause that stands at around £50m in his Athletic Bilbao contract, and while that’s a lot of money, it would be more than worth it, as, at just 22 years old, he scored 11 goals and provided seven assists in 45 games this season.
Cherki, on the other hand, did even better, racking up a staggering 12 goals and 20 assists in just 44 games, which makes his reported price tag of just £30m feel like a bargain.
Olympique Lyonnais' RayanCherkiin action with Fenerbahce's Dusan Tadic and Fenerbahce's Sebastian Szymanski
However, it would appear that the North Londoners are now keen on another incredible talent from Ligue 1, Bradley Barcola.
Yes, according to a recent report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are one of several Premier League teams incredibly interested in the Paris Saint-Germain star.
The report has revealed that alongside the Gunners, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur have sent scouts to watch the Frenchman.
Moreover, while the story claims that the Parisians have no intention of selling the 22-year-old, sources close to the club say he’s valued at up to €120m, around £101m.
It would be an incredibly costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Barcola’s outrageous ability and potential, Arsenal should go all out to get him, especially as he’d be a mega Martinelli upgrade.
How Barcola compares to Martinelli
The first thing to say is that while Barcola has played off the right before and made a not-insignificant number of appearances up top as well, his most played position, and by quite some way at that, is left-wing.
Therefore, he’d undoubtedly play there for Arsenal, and therefore, his most significant competition for game time would be Martinelli, but how do the pair stack up against one another?
Well, when it comes to their raw output, it’s hardly a competition at all.
For example, the incredible Frenchman, who’s blessed with “devastating pace,” per U23 scout Antonio Mango, has scored 21 goals and provided 19 assists in 58 appearances, totalling 3643 minutes this season, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.45 games, or every 91.07 minutes.
In contrast, the Gunners’ number 11 has scored ten goals and provided six assists in 51 appearances, totalling 3564 minutes, which comes out to a far less impressive average of a goal involvement every 3.18 games, or every 222.75 minutes.
What about their underlying numbers, then? Who comes out on top when we take a look under the hood?
Well, considering Barcola has been described as “one of the best left wingers in Europe” by analyst Ben Mattinson, it’s just as one-sided a comparison with the PSG phenom doing better in practically every metric.
Non-Penalty Expected G+As
0.97
0.49
Non-Penalty Goals + Assists
0.99
0.47
Progressive Passes
3.97
2.05
Progressive Carries
5.66
4.88
Shots
3.05
2.16
Shots on Target
1.57
0.94
Passing Accuracy
81.7%
71.4%
Key Passes
2.07
1.57
Passes into the Penalty Area
2.11
1.46
Shot-Creating Actions
4.17
2.91
Goal-Creating Actions
0.83
0.27
Successful Take-Ons
1.40
1.30
Ultimately, while Martinelli remains a useful player and could be an important part of the squad next season, Barcola is evidently the far superior winger in every conceivable way.
Therefore, even if it costs a king’s ransom, Arsenal should be doing all they can to sign the incredible Frenchman this summer.
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A Champions League club are now “pushing hard” to sign a Sunderland star “immediately”, with a bid currently in the works, according to Sky Sports reporter Patrick Berger.
Wembley trip on the horizon for the Black Cats
The Black Cats didn’t exactly finish the Championship campaign in ideal fashion, losing their final five games, but they have managed to turn on the style when it matters, booking their spot at Wembley for the play-off final with a dramatic victory against Coventry City.
However, Regis Le Bris isn’t content with simply reaching the final, with the manager insisting his side must get the job done, saying: “Our focus is now fully on the final. It’s really clear — this is the main objective of the season.
“We have to take the final step. It will be tough, but we must put the work in now to make sure we’re ready.”
The importance of Sunderland restoring their Premier League status cannot be understated, not least because they could have a battle trying to keep hold of their key players beyond the summer, should they fail to return to the top flight.
In fact, in an update on X, Berger has now revealed that Borussia Dortmund are “pushing hard” to sign Jobe Bellingham “immediately”, with the German club keen to sign the midfielder prior to this summer’s Club World Cup.
An offer is currently being prepared, which Dortmund are planning to submit after Saturday’s play-off final, although they are yet to reach an agreement with Bellingham on personal terms, and they don’t believe they are in pole position for the youngster.
Should the Black Cats be willing to sanction a departure this summer, they would be looking to receive a fee of €25m – €30m (£21m – £25m).
Black Cats could struggle to keep hold of Bellingham even if they go up
It could be a very difficult task for Le Bris’ side to keep hold of the 19-year-old beyond the summer, given that a number of other English clubs are also in the race for his signature, such as Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace.
The hope will be that the teenager is tempted to test himself in the Premier League, should Sunderland prevail against Sheffield United, but the opportunity to play in the Champions League could be tempting, with Dortmund recently securing qualification for next season’s competition.
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In truth, news of Dortmund’s increased interest is an unwanted distraction ahead of the play-off final, and full focus must remain on Saturday’s game, which could be pivotal in terms of Sunderland’s future trajectory.
The Championship play-off final has become known as the ‘richest game in football’, and this year’s edition is set to be the most lucrative to date, with the winners set to receive a minimum of £220m in extra income next season.
A week is a long time in football, and Tottenham Hotspur are currently a testament to that.
While the Lilywhites’ domestic campaign has been an utter disaster this year, the fans probably don’t care at the moment, and following their impressive win on Thursday night, they are now in the Europa League final.
However, while the players and supporters can dream and look forward to that game, the board need to continue their preparations for what has to be a massive summer of transfer business.
It seems they are doing just that, as once again, reports have come out linking them to Bournemouth’s star defender Dean Huijsen for £50m, though thanks to an incredible youngster on their books, they may not need to sign the Spaniard at all.
Why Spurs want Huijsen
So, before we get to the player Tottenham could promote instead of splashing the cash on Huijsen, it’s worth taking a moment and looking at why they reportedly want to sign the Bournemouth star in the first place.
AFC Bournemouth's DeanHuijsenduring the warm up before the match
One of the most significant reasons will be the seriously impressive speed at which he’s adapted to and come to thrive in English football.
For example, despite only turning 20 in April and this being his first campaign in the country, the Amsterdam-born monster has made 33 first-team appearances for the Cherries, in which he’s scored three goals and provided one assist.
On top of that, the former Juventus gem has also made two appearances for the senior Spanish side and played a significant role in them making it to the Nations League final.
Last but most certainly not least, the highly-sought-after defender also boasts some genuinely impressive underlying numbers, with FBref placing him in the top 3% of centre-backs in Europe’s top five leagues for non-penalty expected goals plus assists and interceptions, the top 4% for clearances, the top 5% for sho-creating actions and more, all per 90.
Non-Penalty Expected G+As
0.15
Top 3%
Interceptions
1.97
Top 3%
Clearances
7.05
Top 4%
Non-Penalty Goals
0.12
Top 5%
Shot-Creating Actions
1.61
Top 5%
Progressive Carries
1.45
Top 8%
Total Shots
0.73
Top 16%
Progressive Passes
4.67
Top 17%
In short, Huijsen is an exceptionally promising young centre-back, but Spurs might be better off not signing him this summer, as they look to already have a bigger talent on the books, albeit out on loan.
Spurs' bigger talent than Huijsen
While some out there might think we are talking about the promising Ashley Phillips, who just spent the season on loan with Stoke City, they’d be mistaken.
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Instead, you’ve got to go just a little further out to Belgium, where Luka Vušković is spending the season on loan with KVC Westerlo alongside fellow Spurs loanee Alfie Devine.
So, why do we think the incredibly exciting young Croatian might be a bigger talent than Huijsen? Well, we’ll break it down into two areas: his defensive abilities and offensive abilities.
Starting with the former then, and despite only turning 18 in February, the 6 foot 6 “monster of a CB,” as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, has been incredibly effective at the back for his side this season.
According to FOTmob, he sits in the top 7.8% of centre-backs in the league for aerial duels won, ball recoveries and blocks and the top 22.2% for overall duels won – which is undeniably outstanding for someone so young.
Then, when it comes to his attacking prowess, he’s in a league of his own.
For example, the “crazy” talent, as dubbed by Mattinson, has managed to score seven goals and provide three assists in 34 games this season, which for a centre-back is incredible, and works out to a goal involvement every 3.4 games.
Appearances
34
Goals
7
Assists
3
Goal Involvements per Match
0.29
Ultimately, while it’s impossible to be certain until he plays in England, it does appear that Spurs have already signed a bigger talent than Huijsen in Vušković.
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Despite the new owners not being situated at Ibrox just yet, Rangers’ summer rebuild starts now.
After their bitter rivals were crowned Premiership champions for the 13th time in just 14 seasons on Saturday, those from across the city have plenty of work to do over the summer to bridge that gap.
The 17-point chasm that exists at the top of the table is despite the fact Rangers have won both Old Firm derbies in 2025, 3-0 winners at Ibrox in January and 3-2 victors at Parkhead in March, with the latest Glasgow derby coming up on Sunday.
Off the field, the Light Blues could soon have new owners, Paraag Marathe of 49ers Enterprises seemingly set to complete his 51% takeover imminently, with big summer signings promised, including the potential arrival of a “special” youngster from within the SPFL, finally filling the void vacated by the club’s best striker of the modern-era; Alfredo Morelos.
Alfredo Morelos' Rangers career
Back in 2017, two days before his 21st birthday, Morelos joined Rangers from Veikkausliiga champions HJK Helsinki for a reported fee of £1.5m, and what a bargain this would prove to be.
Nicknamed el Búfalo, the Colombian striker was a key figure as the Light Blues went from a laughingstock to Premiership title winners under Steven Gerrard, as outlined by the table below.
Appearances
269
Goals
124
Assists
57
European goals
29
Goals vs Celtic
3
League titles
1
Scottish Cups
1
Red cards
8
As the table suggests, Morelos especially excelled in UEFA competition, breaking Ally McCoist’s all-time club-record for most goals scored in Europe, six of his 29 coming in 2021/22, as the Gers made it all the way to the Europa League Final.
Alfredo Morelos
Many supporters would argue the Colombian has never been properly replaced, but could that be about to change?
Rangers' interest in the SPFL's most in-demand striker
According to a report by The Chronicle, Rangers are ‘tracking’ Heart of Midlothian striker James Wilson, with both Celtic and Newcastle United reportedly interested too.
Matthew Lindsay of the Herald describes Wilson as a ‘gifted young striker’, claiming that Hearts fear losing him for an ‘absolute pittance’, valued at around £1m.
So who is he, and why is he in such demand?
Well, let’s take a look at his statistics to help answer this question.
Age
18
Age of debut
16
Appearances
31
Minutes
1,549
Goals
6
Assists
2
Despite only making his debut as recently as January 2024 against The Spartans, Wilson has established himself as a regular in the Hearts first team.
Indeed, he’s already scored in an Edinburgh derby at Easter Road in October before opening his European account at Tynecastle against Petrocub Hîncești in the Conference League a couple of months later.
The teenager was also sent off for a high-tackle on Dundee United’s Luca Stephenson last month, which is a very Morelos thing to do isn’t it?
In a more positive development, back in March, Wilson was handed his senior international debut by Steve Clarke against Greece during a UEFA Nations League tie at Hampden, becoming Scotland’s youngest-ever male player, breaking John Lambie’s record that had stood for a staggering 138 years.
James Wilson for Scotland.
Teammate for club and country Craig Gordon described Wilson as a “great talent” and “pretty special”, believing “he’s going to go really far”, while Hearts left-back James Penrice praised the teenager’s “brilliant season”, adding “I’m very impressed with him”.
So, it’s easy to understand why he is in such high demand.
Thus, if Rangers are able to get their hands on Wilson, could he replicate Morelos’ time at Ibrox?
Like the great Colombian, he’d be arriving as a youngster for not very much money, but potentially making a huge impact by scoring a high number of goals.
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