All posts by z3u9t.icu

Brendan Rodgers tendered his resignation from Celtic at the start of last week to end his second spell with the Scottish giants in the dugout at Parkhead.

The Northern Irish head coach opted to move on from the club for a second time after a 3-1 loss to Hearts left the Hoops eight points adrift of first place in the Scottish Premiership table.

Rodgers, as shown in the graphic above, enjoyed a largely successful second spell with the Bhoys, winning four trophies in two seasons, before the disappointing start to the current campaign.

After the ex-Liverpool and Leicester City boss left the Hoops last week, experienced manager Martin O’Neill was placed in interim charge and has managed two matches so far.

A 4-0 win over Falkirk and a 3-1 win over Rangers have shown that the club can afford to take their time to find the right man for the job, as O’Neill is a safe pair of hands for now.

One of the things that the next manager should make a priority when they arrive at Parkhead is reviving Reo Hatate, whose form has dropped off this season.

Why Celtic need to revive Reo Hatate

In the summer of 2024, Celtic reportedly rejected an offer of £10m from an unnamed French club, which shows that they valued him at even more than that at the time.

Then, in the 2024/25 campaign, Hatate stepped up his game to deliver 11 goals and nine assists in 55 appearances in all competitions for the Hoops, per Transfermarkt.

The Japan international scored ten goals and created 14 ‘big chances’ in 37 outings in the Premiership, which shows that he provided regular quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals from a central midfield position.

Unfortunately, the 27-year-old star has endured a frustrating 2025/26 campaign so far, so much so that he has been a substitute in the first two games of O’Neill’s interim tenure.

Appearances

37

8

Goals

10

1

Big chances created

14

1

Key passes per game

1.2

0.8

Assists

4

0

Pass accuracy

82%

81%

As you can see in the table above, Hatate’s influence at the top end of the pitch has waned. The midfielder is not as impactful as he was last term for the Hoops, as a scorer or a creator.

The Japanese star, who has one goal and no assists in 15 appearances in all competitions, is capable of far better and that is why the next manager needs to revive his performances as a priority.

Thankfully, for Hatate, there is a manager keen on taking the role who could be the perfect man to revive the central midfielder’s season.

Former Championship manager interested in the Celtic job

According to 67HailHail, former Middlesbrough head coach Michael Carrick has had his name thrown in the ring for the vacant Celtic job.

The report claims that the former Manchester United central midfielder would be interested in replacing Rodgers at Parkhead in the coming weeks, after leaving Boro at the end of last season.

Manager Focus

Who are the greatest coaches in the land? Football FanCast’s Manager Focus series aims to reveal all.

It states that the English tactician is looking to get back into management again, as he has been without a club so far this season, and the Celtic job is a potential option for him.

However, 67HailHail adds that Carrick does have some reservations about the size of the job and whether he is ready for it at this point in his career, which the site itself suggests may be a red flag.

However, if he is still interested in taking the job, as the report suggests, then the club should consider him as a genuine option, because he could revive Hatate.

Why Michael Carrick would be perfect for Reo Hatate

Carrick could get the Japan international back to his best in the middle of the park for the Scottish giants, and not just because he was a former midfielder for Manchester United and England.

The English boss plays a 4-2-3-1 formation, per Transfermarkt, and could play Hatate in the number ten position to get the best out of his attacking qualities, which were on full display in the 2024/25 campaign.

Carrick’s coaching in the last two seasons with Middlesbrough, before his exit in the summer, suggests that he can coach a team to be incredibly creative with the ball.

League finish

8th

10th

xPTS (Expected league finish)

73 (5th)

71 (6th)

xG

69.5

67.4

xGA

55.0

56.4

xGD

+14.5

+11.3

As you can see in the table above, Middlesbrough racked up roughly 137 xG in 82 Championship games across the 2023/24 and 2024/25 campaigns, which suggests that Hatate would be in a side that can create plenty of chances for him to start scoring goals again.

Carrick has also shown that he can develop and improve attack-minded midfield players. Finn Azaz, per Transfermarkt, had never managed more than seven goals and five assists in a Championship season before his haul of 12 goals and 11 assists in the division for Carrick’s side last term.

The out-of-work coach, who was hailed as an “insanely talented coach” by former Boro player Lukas Engel, was also named by Morgan Rogers as one of the coaches who helped him to improve as a player.

Rogers is now shining at Aston Villa, with 14 goals and 13 assists last term, and is an England international, which is further evidence that Carrick can help attacking midfielders to thrive.

Therefore, the English head coach could be the perfect appointment to reignite Hatate’s Celtic career because of his formation, his coaching, and his development of attack-minded midfield players.

Rodgers upgrade: Celtic could go far in Europe by hiring "unbeatable" manager

Celtic could upgrade on Brendan Rodgers in a key area by hiring this head coach.

ByDan Emery Nov 4, 2025

Over the last three seasons, Arsenal have been within touching distance of ending their two-decade drought for a Premier League title under Mikel Arteta.

The Gunners last claimed title glory way back in 2004, with a generation of supporters unable to personally experience the heights achieved in the years prior.

In recent years, the club have shown glimpses of ending such an extended wait, but have been unable to cross the line and end a campaign in top spot.

Arteta’s men have finished the last three seasons in second place, but will be hoping to go one better this time around after the hierarchy backed him with over £200m worth of new additions.

However, despite the heavy spending from the board, one player already in the ranks at the Emirates could offer the solution to their recent inability to jump the final hurdle.

Why Saka could lead Arsenal to title glory in 25/26

Winger Bukayo Saka has been a crucial member of the Arsenal squad over the last couple of years, even cementing his place as a regular starter under Arteta.

The Englishman has risen through the academy ranks and showcased his worth, subsequently reaching unthinkable heights in the club’s hunt for title glory.

The 24-year-old has since racked up 270 senior appearances for the Gunners, registering 144 combined goals and assists in the process – an average of 0.53 per 90.

He missed a huge chunk of last campaign through injury, restricting him to just 37 appearances in all competitions, but it didn’t stop him from achieving a total of 25 goal contributions.

Such numbers weren’t enough for Arteta to claim any form of silverware, but his return to full fitness in 2025/26 will only improve the club’s chances of success.

His emergence through the youth ranks has highlighted the impressive work done by all the staff behind the scenes, which could allow players to emulate his success at the Emirates.

The Arsenal star who’s already a Saka-type player

Over the last couple of months, Arsenal fans have found a new reason to be excited, with teenager Max Dowman making his mark on the first-team despite being just 15.

He made his first senior appearance for the Gunners in the 5-0 triumph over Leeds United at the Emirates, featuring for just under half an hour but still having a huge impact.

The youngster won a penalty late on in the contest, handing Viktor Gyokeres the chance to net his second goal for the club, already showcasing his ability to torment the opposition despite his tender age.

Given his immediate impact in North London, there’s no denying that Dowman has a huge future at the club, but it’s crucial Arteta and co manage the expectations placed upon him.

However, the route of being in the academy and making the jump to the senior squad isn’t as simple for others, with Eberechi Eze one player who’s demonstrated just that in recent years.

He spent time in the youth ranks during the early years of his career, before being let go and making a name for himself at Crystal Palace in the Premier League.

The Gunners subsequently forked out a deal worth £67.5m for his signature this summer, with the hope he can become as crucial as Saka in the immediate future.

Eze, who’s been labelled “magical to watch” by Paul Hall, has glaring similarities to the aforementioned star, with the attacker already being comparable to his compatriot.

In his first eight games back in North London, the 27-year-old has already showcased his creative ability, laying on two assists in his first five Premier League outings.

Shots

2.8

1st

Shots on target

1.13

1st

Shots on target %

46.2%

5th

Progressive passes

5.23

8th

Shot-creating actions

3.83

3rd

Goal-creating actions

0.68

4th

Successful dribbles

1.3

3rd

Take-on success %

61.5%

1st

However, Eze has also shown that he’s capable of starring alone, already netting his first goal for the club in the recent Carabao Cup clash against Port Vale.

Both traits have seen Saka become a real fan-favourite in North London, with the winger undoubtedly a key part of any potential success the club could achieve this campaign.

As for the new summer addition, he could also follow suit if he continues his excellent start to life at the Emirates – subsequently adding a new dimension to Arteta’s already potent front line.

Arteta can drop Gyokeres by unleashing Arsenal star who's emulating Haaland

Viktor Gyokeres should be under pressure to perform at Arsenal.

ByMatt Dawson Oct 15, 2025

Bukayo Saka revealed a pre-match message from Thierry Henry helped make sure Arsenal did not allow history to repeat itself at home to West Ham.

Saka’s second-half penalty ensured the Gunners downed London rivals West Ham by a 2-0 score on Saturday in Mikel Arteta’s 300th match in charge of the club.

It was a milestone occasion with Saka able to mark his 200th appearance in the Premier League with a goal, which Henry had previously achieved. It brought up 100 goal involvements in the division for the England attacker. Asked about those stats and Henry, Saka told broadcasters:

“I’m really happy on these records. I’m just going to keep pushing and try and get some team trophies, which is what we have been searching for.”

Arsenal should have scored after 13 minutes but Viktor Gyokeres could not finish off Saka’s dangerous delivery and Eberechi Eze blazed the rebound over.

The deadlock was broken seven minutes before half-time when Eze had a shot saved by Alphonse Areola and Declan Rice made no mistake against his old club.

West Ham remained in the contest until Jurrien Timber was bundled over in the penalty area by El Hadji Malick Diouf and Saka tucked away the spot-kick for his first goal of the campaign after 68 minutes to seal a comfortable victory at Emirates Stadium.

It was Saka’s 55th goal in the Premier League to go with 45 assists. “I don’t really like to linger on these things, but you said it – it’s a beautiful achievement and I’m really proud of it,” Saka, 24, said.

“Obviously 200 games for Arsenal in the Premier League is a really big moment. I’m going to enjoy it and it was nice to get the goal as well and the win.”

Arteta talked up Saka’s “really impressive” numbers, saying: “When you look at those numbers, 200 games, 100 goal involvements, I mean it’s unbelievable.

“His age, what he’s doing, the manner that he’s doing it as well, really impressive. That’s the kind of players that we need to achieve what we want.”

Nuno Espirito Santo handed a debut to West Ham academy graduate Callum Marshall over experienced forward Callum Wilson.

“First of all, let’s be correct and I said it, it’s not easy to play a young lad in front of Callum Wilson, but I think it’s important for us that

we all understand that we need as soon as possible to have total knowledge of what we have in the squad,” Nuno said.

“It’s good on that aspect but this is the issue and the main reason behind that is we are going to need all of them. We have hopes that the young lads bring new things.”

Last week was very much Alexander Isak vs Hugo Ekitike. Liverpool flexed their muscles by telling Newcastle they were ready to put a £120m offer on the table for the Swede.

The Toon were steadfast, however, once again reiterating that the centre forward isn’t for sale this summer.

Consequently, the Reds raided Eintracht Frankfurt and stole Ekitike from under Newcastle’s noses. Eddie Howe’s men had made their own bid for the Frenchman but had to sit back and watch their Premier League rivals prise him away instead.

Having already signed Florian Wirtz for a club-record £116m, they’ve splashed out a further £79m on Ekitike. But, Liverpool’s efforts to improve the forward line might not be done there.

Does anyone fancy Rodrygo?

Liverpool could sign big-money Rodrygo alternative

While a deal for Ekitike is set to be formally announced in the not-too-distant future, rumours have surfaced suggesting Real Madrid winger, Rodrygo, is also on their radar.

The Brazilian has been the subject of interest from Arsenal this summer but reports last week suggested that the Reds have leapfrogged their title rivals in the race for the winger.

Liverpool have allegedly held their own talks to sign Rodrygo but whether a move is formalised remains to be seen.

Signing a winger is likely to depend on the future of Luis Diaz. Bayern Munich want to sign him but there is a difference in valuation right now.

Transfer Focus

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

If that move does come to fruition, then perhaps Anthony Gordon might come on the radar again. The Anfield outfit have been linked with the Newcastle star religiously, and he’s very keen on the move.

That’s according to journalist Graeme Bailey. Speaking to TBR Football, he played up the chances of Gordon heading to Merseyside in the future.

“If Diaz goes, I wouldn’t rule Gordon out. I think if Diaz — the left-sided player — goes, Liverpool will bring someone in. Obviously, we know they’ve talked to Rodrygo, but Gordon is very much in that conversation for them.”

Bailey continued: “Gordon would walk to Liverpool — it’s his hometown club. He loves them. He wants to play for them. I think it’s inevitable Gordon will join Liverpool at some point — whether it’s this summer, next, or the year after. But I think he will end up at Anfield at some point.”

How Gordon compares to Rodrygo

It must be said that signing Rodrygo this summer, particularly when Arsenal are also interested, would be a phenomenal capture.

This is a player who scored as many as 19 goals in the 2022/23 campaign. He’s shone for Madrid and it’s only as a consequence of Kylian Mbappe and Vini Jr that he’s suffering from a lack of game time.

That’s certainly nothing to be ashamed of. That said, while Rodrygo has put in some fine performances on the continent, he’s not accustomed to life in English football and would no doubt take time to get up to speed. With another raw prospect in the form of Ekitike arriving, it could well be argued that Liverpool will need someone more battle-ready if Diaz leaves.

Well, in Gordon, they’d certainly find their plug-and-play option. The England international has been valued as highly as £100m and has showcased why over the last two campaigns in particular, scoring 21 goals and registering 23 assists.

Gordon is very much a dual threat, possessing elite ball carrying and combining that with the ability to score goals and create.

Rodrygo does feel like a superstar. He plays for Real, after all. Yet, Gordon is a mentality monster. He wants to win at all costs and the fact he actually supports Liverpool will no doubt help him succeed at Anfield if a move happens.

Goals

0.29

0.33

Assists

0.25

0.21

Touches

45

56

Key passes

1.82

1.98

Progressive passes

3.36

4.13

Successful take-ons

1.55

2.28

Ball recoveries

3.75

2.76

Tackles

1.47

0.77

Analysing the core metrics above, one thing is clear and that’s Rodrygo looks more explosive.

Yet, an element of context must be applied. The Brazil international has been playing for a more ball-dominant team and in amassing 11 more touches per 90 minutes, it’s understandable why the data is skewed in his favour.

Yet, when it comes to things like progressive passes and key passes, there really isn’t much of a difference between the two.

Interestingly, Gordon will offer you a lot more off the ball. He makes an extra ball recovery per 90 and aids his team’s cause with more tackles. His work rate is exemplary.

While both players could cost over £80m, perhaps it would be wiser to invest the money in a local lad who knows the division inside out.

Bad news for Ekitike: Liverpool preparing new bid to sign £100m + star

Liverpool are still planning on making more signings in the summer transfer window.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 22, 2025

It would be something of an understatement to say this summer has been a busy one for Chelsea.

Enzo Maresca’s men hardly had a moment to catch their breath after winning the Conference League before they were thrown into the Club World Cup, which they then won.

Likewise, even though the board have made plenty of signings over recent years, they’ve been just as busy this summer, picking up some genuinely exciting talents like Liam Delap, Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens.

However, they aren’t done there, as they’ve also been linked with another international star, someone who’d be a far better signing than another player touted for a move to Stamford Bridge: Alejandro Garnacho.

Chelsea target massive Garnacho upgrade

While most of Chelsea’s business this summer has been conducted without much controversy or fan backlash, it wouldn’t be unfair to suggest that there is a portion of the fan base who wouldn’t be overjoyed with the potential signing of Garnacho.

Transfer Focus

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

After all, the Argentine international has a massive public falling out with Ruben Amorim at Manchester United, and while he’s talented, the supposed price tag of around £40m might be too much for someone who could disrupt the dressing room.

So, it’s good news that it now appears as if the club are closing in on someone else, someone who’d be a far better signing.

At least that is according to a recent report from Sports Zone, which claims that Chelsea are now rapidly advancing with their interest in Xavi Simons.

In fact, the report has revealed that the Blues have now reached an agreement on personal terms for the RB Leipzig star, and that a first bid is expected sometime today.

While the report makes no mention of how much the Dutchman might cost the West Londoners, other stories from this month have claimed that the German outfit want around £61m.

It could therefore be an expensive transfer to get over the line, but given Simons’ ability and potential, it’s one worth fighting for, especially as he’d be a way better signing than Garnacho.

Why Simons would be a better signing than Garnacho

So, if we ignore all the potential off-the-pitch problems and focus solely on what they can do on the pitch, why would Simons be a far better signing than Garnacho?

Well, first and foremost, the Dutchman is simply the far more dangerous attacking outlet, and that is clearly shown in their respective output from last season.

In his 33 games for Leipzig, totalling just 2763 minutes, the 22-year-old “game-changer,” as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, scored 11 goals and provided eight assists.

That means the former Paris Saint-Germain gem managed to average a goal involvement every 1.73 games, or every 144 minutes.

In contrast, the Madrid-born ace scored just 11 goals and provided ten assists in 58 appearances, totalling 3,568 minutes, for the Red Devils last term.

Appearances

33

58

Minutes

2763′

3568′

Goals

11

11

Assists

8

10

Goal Involvements per Match

0.57

0.36

Minutes per Goal Involvements

144′

169.90′

In other words, the Argentine international averaged a goal involvement every 2.76 games, or every 169.90 minutes.

Unfortunately for the United ace, the one-sided nature of this comparison only continues when we take a look at their national team statistics as well.

For example, the former PSV Eindhoven superstar has already won 28 senior caps for the Netherlands, in which he’s scored five goals, provided four assists, made one World Cup appearance and six at the European Championships.

For his efforts, the Argentine has won just eight caps, one of which was a substitute appearance at the Copa América, and he’s only provided one assist in that time.

Ultimately, while Garnacho has undeniable talent, Simons is simply the better and more complete player, and therefore, Chelsea should be looking to sign him over the United ace.

Chelsea are now "close" to signing a talent who's as big as Estevao

The seriously exciting gem could develop into a world-beater for Chelsea.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 30, 2025

Newcastle United may have signed Anthony Elanga this summer, but that is the only highlight for Eddie Howe thus far.

Moves for no.1 target Joao Pedro and striking sensation Hugo Ekitike failed in recent weeks while Howe was also keen on signing Bryan Mbeumo, but it appears as though Manchester United have snatched him away from the Magpies.

The Cameroon international would have been an excellent versatile option for Howe next season, as he can play across the front three.

As such, he will have to explore other options ahead of the new season.

Newcastle's forward search

Benjamin Sesko and Julian Alvarez have both been linked with moves to Newcastle in recent days. Either one would make for a magnificent signing, no doubt about that.

With everything, the transfer fees could be the biggest problem regarding either deal. This could mean Howe might have to turn elsewhere to sign another forward.

According to Africa Foot, Newcastle have entered the race to sign Evann Guessand, now set to rival Tottenham Hotspur for his signature.

It’s claimed that the Toon have recently opened talks with the player’s entourage as they now explore whether to formalise their interest in the player.

He would only cost a reported £22m, which could enable Howe to move for other targets while simultaneously improving his attacking options.

Guessand, given his positional flexibility, could even be Howe’s own answer to Mbeumo should he sign for the Toon this summer.

Transfer Focus

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

Why Newcastle must sign Evann Guessand

While the signing of Elanga is a promising one, giving Howe some depth on the flanks, it is evident another centre-forward is required.

Callum Wilson left the club upon the expiration of his contract, leaving just Alexander Isak and William Osula as the only recognised strikers at the club.

Last season for Brentford, Mbeumo scored 20 goals and grabbed nine assists. He spent the season operating either as a main striker or on the right flank, showcasing his versatility.

Guessand may not have matched this tally of 29 goal contributions, but he still scored 13 goals and recorded ten assists in all competitions for Nice.

24/25

42

13

9

23/24

38

7

2

21/22

25

1

3

20/21

3

0

0

19/20

1

0

0

Like the Brentford star, the Ivorian played either as a striker or on either wing for the French club, and this sort of flexibility could give Howe a major boost.

Guessand’s performances in Europe last season will offer Howe more positives. Indeed, the attacker shone when compared to his peers in the Europa League.

According to FBref, not only did Guessand rank in the top 12% for successful take-ons per 90 (2.67), but he also ranked in the top 5% for touches in the opposition penalty area (7.21) per 90. That’s certainly an Mbeumo-esque set of traits.

He also ranked in the top 12% for aerials won and in the top 16% for tackles per 90, highlighting that he is solid off the ball and is always looking to win it back for his team. While Mbeumo may not be prolific in the air, his work-rate is also exemplary.

U23 scout Antonio Mango hailed the 24-year-old as “electric” earlier this season, and considering he could be available for £22m, it makes perfect sense for Howe to move ahead with a move.

Newcastle might have missed out on Mbuemo, but in Guessand, they could have the next best thing.

Even better than Sesko: Newcastle agree personal terms to sign £50m striker

Newcastle United would love to welcome in this £50m striker who is even better than Benjamin Sesko.

2 ByKelan Sarson Jul 20, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur had a tough 2024/25 campaign that ultimately led to Ange Postecoglou’s dismissal from his manager’s post. However, the Australian left a hero, ending many interminable years of searching for silverware.

It was a contentious call, but in Thomas Frank, Tottenham have a successor in the dugout who could instil the stability and slickness needed to return to prominence in the Premier League and build from the foundations laid by Ange.

With Frank now settled into his post, fans are itching for signings ahead of a much-anticipated return to the Champions League.

The latest on Spurs' search for signings

Though the Danish tactician fancied a reunion with his Brentford talisman Bryan Mbeumo, the right-sided forward has intimated his desire to join Manchester United.

And now that Antoine Semenyo has extended his contract with Bournemouth, that one’s seemingly off the cards. Both wingers had been of a vested interest to Spurs, but these turns of events may yet lead Frank and co to the pick of the bunch.

Indeed, according to transfer insider Graeme Bailey, that man could be West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus, who has been the centre of a failed £55m bid from the Lilywhites this week.

Kudus has an £85m release clause but the Irons are willing to do business for a more modest sum – though this is still expected to come in around £10m higher than the fee Spurs offered.

What Mohammed Kudus would bring to Spurs

West Ham signed Kudus from Ajax in August 2023 for a £38m figure. While true prolificness has eluded him on English shores – notching 32 goal contributions from 80 games in all competitions – there’s so much to like about this powerful winger, who moves up the pitch like the deuce.

Kudus wasn’t at his best last season, and no mistake. However, looking at how he compares against Mbeumo’s recent season during his opening year in England, 2023/24, emphasises the quality of player Tottenham would be adding to their fold.

Sure, the Ghanaian could do more from a prolific standpoint, but was Mbeumo a refined goalscorer and creator when he first played for Frank at Brentford? Could the shrewd coach not bring such qualities to the fore here for Kudus?

Right winger

53

21

10

Centre-forward

52

16

3

Attacking midfield

49

11

6

Central midfield

46

11

3

Left winger

21

6

3

His positional dynamism is an incredibly attractive feature of the typical forward’s skill set, though in truth he would be signed for his ability to barrel down the right wing, with such physical attributes even leading journalist Gary Al-Smith to describe him as a “generational talent”.

This is underscored by his 90% pass success rate in the Premier League last season, having also averaged 2.9 dribbles and 6.4 successful duels per game, as per Sofascore.

Mbeumo might have scored 20 goals across 38 Premier League appearances last year, but he also averaged 1.4 dribbles and 4.7 successful duels per match. This is impressive, but not as noteworthy as West Ham’s star.

Tottenham could hit the jackpot signing Kudus, who is already clear as an immensely talented Premier League star but has the materials to become something even greater under Frank’s leadership.

Upgrade on Kudus & Eze: Spurs in contact to sign "world-class" £43m star

Tottenham Hotspur appear to be plotting moves for various attackers during this summer window.

5 ByEthan Lamb Jul 1, 2025

Supposing Liverpool get themselves a new centre-forward this summer, Arne Slot has the potential to forge a truly special outfit down Anfield Road, capable of dominating European football for many years to come.

Liverpool have already wrapped up deals for Bayer Leverkusen duo Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz, while today is Tuesday, and it’s now Milos Kerkez week.

Without question, FSG aren’t spinning their wheels this summer, acting with intent to secure the core of Slot’s squad over the coming years.

While signing a centre-forward is very much on the radar, Darwin Nunez’s sale to Napoli must be finalised (Saudi Arabian suitors are also keen) before forward movement can take place on that front.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are being forced to contend with the possibility of losing one of their star forwards in Luis Diaz.

Why Liverpool could sell Luis Diaz

Back at the start of the month, Diaz spoke of his future on Merseyside, spoke of discussions held with potential suitors. He called it a natural part of the transfer window, especially in the earlier stages. He’s right.

Barcelona have a historic interest that they tried to act on, but Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes retorted in the negative when they made their approach. Barca, it’s felt, don’t have the financial sway to meet FSG’s demands. Diaz is one of the best wingers in Europe, after all.

However, Bayern Munich do have some moolah lying about and have reportedly since made their own enquiry for the 28-year-old Colombian, who scored 17 goals and supplied eight assists for the English champions in 2024/25. Cody Gakpo is also on the German giants’ wishlist.

Diaz is entering the next-to-last year of his Liverpool contract, but he will only be sold if a fitting proposal is tabled. Something in the region of €80m (£68m), perhaps.

Should Diaz go, though, he’d need to be replaced.

Liverpool make contact for Luis Diaz replacement

It must be stressed that the probability of this one coming to fruition is low, but according to transfer insider Graeme Bailey, Liverpool are interested in signing Bradley Barcola this summer.

In fact, FSG have already made an official enquiry as they look to sign the silky Paris Saint-Germain star. However, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City are also keen on the winger, who has emerged as one of the leading forwards in Europe over the past year.

As such, PSG have responded to calls by stating the 22-year-old is not for sale. Though it’s not explicitly stated, Bailey suggests Liverpool would be willing to fork out another £100m this summer, while discussing the intrigue surrounding Barcola.

Why Liverpool want Bradley Barcola

If one of Liverpool’s biggest talents in Diaz leaves, a fitting replacement will be needed to balance the output and ensure Mohamed Salah is not encumbered by even more responsibility than he carried last term, albeit to a title-winning effect.

Barcola could certainly be that man, for the rising star has proven himself capable of taking the step from good prospect to world-class superstar under Luis Enrique’s wing at the Parc des Princes, scoring 14 goals and supplying ten assists across just 27 league starts in 2024/25, creating 18 big chances and averaging 1.5 key passes per game, as per Sofascore.

Joining PSG from Ligue 1 rivals Lyon in 2023 for a €45m (about £38m) fee, Barcola has only gone from strength to strength in a Parisian shirt, principally fielded off the left flank but also having tasted actually on the right and in a central berth.

24/25 – PSG

60

21

20

23/24 – PSG

42

5

9

22/23 – Lyon

35

7

10

21/22 – Lyon

13

0

2

Were he to take Diaz’s left wing spot (with the possibility of acting like the more experienced man in a false-nine-type role), Barcola would surely forge an incredible alliance with Wirtz, whose “generational” ball-playing quality – as has been commented on by journalist Chris Stonadge – would see the Frenchman picked out in promising position with frightening regularity.

Moreover, Wirtz’s off-the-ball intelligence is an impressive thing too, and as Barcola utilises his rapidity down the wing, the Germany international can weave into space and collect a pass, strike on goal.

Wirtz will bring creativity and a bouncing athletic style to Anfield, but Barcola would magnify that and then some through his fleet-footedness and electric dribbling, ranked as he was among the top 7% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues last term for goal contributions, the top 9% for progressive carries and the top 7% for goal-creating actions per 90, as per FBref.

Think Diaz, but even more energetic, even more potent in the final third. Barcola will collect the ball and move into the danger area at breakneck pace, making inroads into enemy defensive territory after sweeping passes from, you guessed it, Wirtz.

Bagging the German is incredible enough for Slot’s project, but if a budding superstar in Barcola can be signed as well, there’s no telling how bright the future might be for the Premier League champions.

PSG might have issued an emphatic no to hungry suitors, but that hardly means a move couldn’t be brokered, particularly if his reported £100m price tag is met.

Any move for Barcola hinges on Diaz’s (or Gakpo’s) summer sale, and if such an eventuality does come about, Barcola might just be the perfect replacement.

He’s yet to realise his potential, and he’s already “one of the best wingers in the world”, as has been said by analyst Ben Mattinson. Liverpool need to get it done.

Slot's answer to Mane: Liverpool chasing "monster" £70m Premier League star

Liverpool have set their sights on another attacking star this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 24, 2025

Chelsea has experienced a very bumpy Club World Campaign to date, as an opening victory against LAFC was then rudely met by a shock 3-1 defeat at the hands of Flamengo.

It was far from the most convincing or eye-catching win against LAFC, but it was a win nonetheless for Enzo Maresca’s men to get up and running in the tournament.

However, from a Blues point of view, any slight grievances that were kept under wraps after the underwhelming victory in Atlanta have now come to the surface, with Maresca worrying already that his current squad might not be cut out for a higher finish than fourth position next time out in the Premier League.

Indeed, a sprinkling of upgrades is now desperately needed all across the pitch, with Robert Sanchez alarmingly conceding three goals to Filipe Luis’ men.

Moreover, Nicolas Jackson would only find himself battling in the Philadelphia heat for a matter of minutes before he was sent off, with it being well known that Chelsea are chasing after the services of Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitike this summer.

How to Watch the FIFA Club World Cup for Free

Everything you need to know about the Club World Cup.

ByCharlie Smith Jun 13, 2025

Jackson certainly didn’t boost his chances of a long-term Blues future by getting involved in this moment of madness, as the ex-Villarreal man begins to stare the exit door more and more in the face after a challenging few seasons in the English game.

Chelsea are no strangers to high-profile flops taking place in the striker department; however, with Romelu Lukaku failing to ever settle in West London himself over two mostly unmemorable stints.

What went wrong for Lukaku at Chelsea

In total, the Belgian – who was purchased for a mighty £97.5m to begin his second spell – would only go on to score just a slim 15 total goals for Chelsea from 59 games.

There was a lot of notable fanfare surrounding Lukaku on his return to England in 2021, with that mammoth price tag not helping matters whatsoever, on top of his then bumper 64-goal tally for Inter Milan meaning the world was anticipated of him.

Instead, only eight more strikes were added to his already weak Blues back catalogue, with the 6-foot-3 flop also not helping matters on his end when publicly declaring a desire to return back to Inter just a matter of months into his cursed Chelsea stay.

Their patience wore very thin, therefore, with it being a big relief at Stamford Bridge when the long-standing Belgian international moved back to Italy after years of inconsistent form and that infamous interview.

Chelsea's new Lukaku

Lukaku isn’t the only notable striker flop at Stamford Bridge or the last, with recent years seeing the Blues buy Timo Werner and Fernando Torres, among other costly slip-ups.

However, in the case of Jackson, there are certainly some similarities here. The 24-year-old does actually boast seven more strikes than the wasteful Werner at a respectable 30, with the Senegalese attacker only 15 shy of Torres’ total, too.

Incredibly, Jackson has even doubled Lukaku’s slim amount too, despite receiving notable pelters for his off-performances.

He’s not quite tainted his Chelsea stay in a similar fashion just yet – minus his recent dismissal irking Blues fans – but it’s clear that the ex-Villarreal man might be on borrowed time himself and could be put out of his misery shortly, much like Lukaku last summer.

After all, when Jackson entered Stamford Bridge back in the summer of 2023 for £30m, there would have been the same buzz in the air that was around when Lukaku first relocated to West London from Anderlecht.

Indeed, he had just moved to England off the back of bagging a promising 12 La Liga strikes for Villarreal. But, for as much as he has gone on to score that aforementioned tally of 30 goals for the Blues, other numbers away from just this output alone are worrying to read.

Games played

35

30

Goals scored

14

10

Assists

5

5

Big chances missed

24

19

Big chances created

8

6

Looking at the numbers above, Jackson has staggeringly spurned 43 big chances over his two Chelsea seasons, meaning his goal tally could well be even heftier now if he possessed more accuracy.

He could well be more suited to hone his craft where the spotlight isn’t so intensely focused on him, with Chelsea maybe having another Lukaku on their hands in terms of a striker being able to set other European leagues alight, whilst never being able to fully settle in West London, frustratingly.

After all, it has now been reported that Jackson could follow Lukaku’s footsteps very closely by moving out to Italy.

Indeed, a report from Sky Italia – which has been relayed by Sky Sports – indicates that Jackson might be on the move in the coming weeks or months.

Sky Italia alleges that both Juventus and Napoli are intrigued by the prospect of landing the hit-and-miss 24-year-old at some point this summer, although his wages and transfer fee might well be a problem to cough up.

On the contrary, opposing information coming out of Stamford Bridge itself seems to indicate that Chelsea do want to keep their £100k-per-week hotshot around, even as suitors from Saudi Arabia and the Premier League circle.

If Jackson does up and leave – for as much as he has irritated and irked Chelsea supporters over his hot-and-cold stint to date – he could go on to be a rip-roaring success elsewhere like the much-talked-about Belgian.

After all, it’s not as if Jackson isn’t getting into worthwhile goalscoring positions for Chelsea, with the 24-year-old’s barrage of missed chances coming off the back of him being able to find space.

Lukaku also spurned many a big chance when failing to get going in the Premier League, as seen in his tally of 15 big chances being missed during the 2018/19 season.

Therefore, in an environment that isn’t so intense, Jackson could go on to find his goalscoring groove even more, much like Lukaku has managed when plying his trade in Italy.

24/25

38

14

11

23/24

47

21

4

22/23

37

14

7

Lukaku has certainly lived up to the “world-class” billing thrust his way by England manager Thomas Tuchel playing for Napoli, AS Roma, and Inter Milan since his disastrous Blues goodbye, with 49 goals powered home by the long-standing Belgian international across 122 clashes.

Jackson would hope for similar rich veins of form if he soon swapped West London for either Juventus or Napoli, with the 6-foot-2 striker also praised in a glowing manner to Lukaku in the past, having been heralded as “special” by football analyst Rahman Osman when previously shining at Stamford Bridge.

It would be a sad ending for Jackson if he were to shortly head to a new club, with his reckless red card against Flamengo stealing all the headlines, over his prior goalscoring exploits in West London.

But, as has been shown in Lukaku’s own up-and-down story, a move out to Europe could be his best possible next step if he is to depart.

Their next Thiago Silva: Chelsea set sights on signing "monstrous" £80m CB

Chelsea could be set to sign a defender this summer who could be their next Thiago Silva.

ByRoss Kilvington Jun 21, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur are looking to build on winning the Europa League last term and could turn to a recognisable face in their hunt to strengthen their defensive line.

Tottenham look to bring in more reinforcements after Mathys Tel

Spurs fans will be heading into the new week with a spring in their step after the club announced Mathys Tel on a long-term deal that will run until the summer of 2031 following his loan spell.

Kevin Danso has also completed his move to North London from Lens, signaling that Thomas Frank is keen to stockpile high-pedigree stars to max out squad depth to cope with a heavy fixture schedule to come.

Speaking after selling Tel to Tottenham permanently, Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl said: “Mathys Tel came to FC Bayern as a very young player and took his first steps into top-level international football here.

“He was a popular figure in our team, always giving his all for the club and the team. It has become clear that the move to Tottenham was the right one for his development.”

Looking to strike while the iron is hot, Tottenham are preparing a surprise bid for Brentford captain Christian Norgaard as Frank looks to reunite with an old flame in North London.

Tottenham star very close to Spurs exit after receiving £195k-p/w proposal

Spurs could be set to let an iconic figure depart…

1 BySean Markus Clifford Jun 15, 2025

Despite his familiarity with the man in charge at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, it may prove to be a difficult deal to pull off as the Bees hold out to retain their captain.

Frank is ready to put his own stamp on Spurs once he fully gets his feet under the table, and what better way to do that than raid his former club for a number of stars?

Tottenham Hotspur enter race to sign Nathan Collins

According to TBR, Tottenham have entered the race to sign Nathan Collins from Brentford in another swoop that could see Frank link up with one of his former men in North London.

Arsenal are also said to be keen admirers of the Republic of Ireland international, as are Liverpool, though Spurs see the former Wolverhampton Wanderers man as a potential replacement for Cristian Romero if the Argentina international departs this summer.

Nathan Collins in the Premier League – 2024/25 (Fotmob)

Duels won

194

Aerial duels won

119

Pass completion rate

86.3%

Recoveries

162

Interceptions

34

Commended for his “fantastic” work ethic by former Ireland Under-21 boss Jin Crawford, Collins registered an impressive two goals and five assists last term under Frank across all competitions.

Admittedly, the battle for his signature may become heated, but the advantage Spurs hold in the dugout could well be enough to tip the scales in their direction if Brentford are willing to come to the table.

Now, it remains to be seen if the Dane can force a deal over the line to bring the Irishman to N17, which would be a statement early into his reign at Tottenham.