All posts by z3u9t.icu

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.

While they finally saw their team lift a significant honour in the Europa League, we reckon most Tottenham Hotspur fans are happy to see the back of this season.

For example, away from their continental success, the North Londoners finished all the way down in 17th place in the Premier League and failed to get past the Fourth Round of the FA Cup.

So, whether Ange Postecoglou keeps his job or not, Daniel Levy and Co need to do all they can to bring in the right players this summer, players who can help them rise up the table and put in a good showing in the Champions League next season.

Fortunately, the club seem to be on the same page, as reports are now linking the North Londoners with an incredible talent who could be their answer to Manchester United’s seemingly imminent signing of Bryan Mbeumo.

Tottenham transfer news

Back in the January transfer window, Spurs were one of several Premier League sides quite heavily linked with a move for Mbeumo, and while nothing came of it, the links didn’t go away.

Transfer Focus

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

In fact, the Brentford star was still being touted for a move to N17 as recently as last month, but then this week, all hopes of the North Londoners securing the Cameroonian’s signature evaporated.

On Monday evening, The Athletic’s David Ornstein revealed that despite interest from other sides, including Tottenham, the 25-year-old now wants to join the Red Devils.

While missing out on a player as talented as the former Troyes gem is never ideal, the good news is that the Lilywhites have now been linked with another sensational talent compared to him: Xavi Simons.

Yes, according to a recent report from TEAMtalk, Spurs are one of several teams interested in signing the RB Leipzig star.

The report claims that the North Londoners made contact with the player’s camp in January and that they’ll have to compete with Arsenal, Chelsea, and potentially Liverpool should they opt to move ahead with their interest.

The Dutchman is valued at around £65m by Leipzig, so while it would be a costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, it’s one worth fighting for, especially as he could be Tottenham’s answer to Mbeumo.

How Simons compares to Mbeumo

So before getting into a couple of the other reasons why Spurs should be looking to sign Simons this summer, it’s important to examine this comparison to Mbeumo and where it comes from.

It stems from FBref, which compares players in similar positions in Europe’s top five leagues, the Champions League and Europa League, and in this instance, has come to the conclusion that the Brentford star is the fourth most similar attacking midfielder or winger to the Leipzig gem across the last 365 days.

The best way to understand how this conclusion was reached is by looking at some of the underlying metrics in which the pair rank closely, such as non-penalty expected goals plus assists, expected assists, shots and shots on target, goal-creating actions, tackles won, successful take-ons and more, all per 90.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.48

0.42

Progressive Carries

3.56

3.43

Shots

2.09

2.08

Shots on Target

0.96

0.90

Expected Assists

0.25

0.25

Goal-Creating Actions

0.50

0.53

Tackles Won

0.88

0.82

Successful Take-Ons

1.38

1.37

On top of their statistical similarities, the 22-year-old “pocket rocket,” as dubbed by analyst Raj Chohan, could also have the same effect on the North Londoners that so many expect the Bees ace to have on United.

For example, despite missing some of the campaign with an ankle injury, the Amsterdam-born dynamo was able to rack up a seriously impressive haul of 11 goals and eight assists in 33 appearances for the German outfit.

That means he averaged a goal involvement every 1.73 games for a team that struggled more than most expected this season.

Finally, in addition to his ability in and around goal, the 26-capped international is positionally versatile and is more than capable of playing off either wing, in attacking midfield and even as a centre-forward if need be.

Ultimately, missing out on Mbeumo isn’t ideal, but in Simons, Spurs could have their own goalscoring superstar on their hands, so Levy and Co should be doing all they can to sign him this summer.

Eriksen 2.0: Spurs looking to sign "extraordinary" £25m Sarr upgrade

The young leader could be just what Spurs are after.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 4, 2025

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.

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.

Offer made: Fulham make £1m bid for EFL ace with a "wonder of a left foot"

The Cottagers have made an opening bid for a new defender.

ByDominic Lund May 28, 2025

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.

Sheffield Wednesday are looking to build the foundations for another tilt at the Championship playoffs next term, though they may now face a fight with Blackburn Rovers to sign a reported target.

Sheffield Wednesday remain in a state of limbo with Danny Rohl

Usually, stability at a football club starts from the manager and filters down to his players, but the future of Danny Rohl at Hillsborough appears anything but certain at this point.

With the 36-year-old’s work in South Yorkshire not going unnoticed, interest is starting to mount in his services as clubs around Europe enter a period of change in the off-season.

If he were to leave South Yorkshire, where could the Sheffield Wednesday boss end up? Glasgow could be a potential destination after Rangers identified Rohl as a prospective permanent successor to Philippe Clement.

Fulham are another side intrigued by his managerial style, though ties haven’t been formally severed, which has led to a state of limbo involving all parties.

Regardless, Sheffield Wednesday need to start building for the new season. Some clarity over the direction of their squad has been found in Thursday’s retained list amid a lack of communication on matters at managerial level.

Sheffield Wednesday ready to make five new signings including Leeds 17 y/o

The Owls could welcome as many as five future stars.

ByTom Cunningham Apr 15, 2025

Barry Bannan, Akin Famewo and Callum Paterson are in talks to stay, while Anthony Musaba, Michael Smith and Josh Windass have been tied to new deals following the club’s decision to trigger their options. Stuart Armstrong, Mallik Wilks and Marvin Johnson are among notable departures, paving the way for eventual reinforcements to take their place.

Undoubtedly, a feeling of anxiety exists over Rohl’s future, but forward planning is underway regarding their pursuit of a highly-rated defensive target.

Sheffield Wednesday make enquiry to sign Aston Villa youngster Rowe

According to Football Insider, Sheffield Wednesday are pursuing Aston Villa youngster Triston Rowe on a loan basis amid competition from Blackburn Rovers for his signature and have made a move by launching an initial enquiry.

The Villans have seen enough in the England Under-19 international’s development to decide on farming him out to the EFL Championship for further experience after his role in their Under-18 side’s treble victory.

Triston Rowe in 2024/25 – all competitions

Appearances

35

Goals

1

Assists

1

Primarily a right-back, Rowe can also deputise in central defence or further up the flank if needed and was previously called up to Aston Villa’s matchday squad in their 2-1 EFL Cup victory over Wycombe Wanderers last year.

Nevertheless, he isn’t yet viewed as a viable competitor to Matty Cash, so a loan move would allow him to continue developing without the spotlight of being thrust into a high-stakes top-flight environment.

Former Scotland international Liam Palmer isn’t getting any younger, which may have prompted Sheffield Wednesday to assess their own pecking order on the right-hand side of defence.

Now, their challenge will be to convince the youngster that Hillsborough is the correct environment to thrive while growing into the senior game next campaign.

Derby County and Blackburn Rovers have been embroiled in an intriguing backstory this campaign, centred around John Eustace, who could now have a say in a transfer saga involving both clubs.

Derby County look to build on surviving relegation

Despite fighting for large parts of the campaign in the relegation zone, Derby secured their Championship status by the skin of their teeth after playing out an anticlimactic 0-0 draw with Stoke City on the final day. Working a minor miracle at Pride Park, John Eustace managed to guide the Rams to safety after they were previously seven points adrift of survival, losing only one of their final six league matches.

Controversially, the 45-year-old arrived at Derby from Blackburn Rovers, which was a surprise turn of events at the time due to the vast distance between both clubs in the English second-tier standings. Nevertheless, his decision proved to be worthwhile even in the face of doubters, something Eustace was quick to point out once the Rams confirmed they would be staying in the Championship.

Derby County’s great escape under John Eustace

19. Derby County

50

20. Preston North End

50

21. Hull City

49

22. Luton Town (R)

49

23. Plymouth Argyle (R)

46

24. Cardiff City (R)

44

Leaving some frosty relations at his former club, Blackburn missed out on a playoff berth by two points, creating more intrigue between both sides as they go head-to-head again next season. Crossing paths once again, Eustace’s Derby are now fighting his old side for the signature of a talented midfielder from League One, per reports.

Derby County and Blackburn Rovers fight to sign Ethan Erhahon

According to EFL Analysis, Derby and Blackburn both want to sign Lincoln City midfielder Ethan Erhahon, who is attracting interest from a clutch of other clubs in the second and third tier of English football.

Plymouth Argyle, Millwall, Preston North End and Oxford United are also in the hunt for the Scotland Under-21 cap, who could fetch the Imps a seven-figure fee if he were to be sold.

New target: Derby plotting move for "fantastic" record-breaking speedster

The Rams are chasing a defender, whose contract is set to expire next month.

ByDominic Lund May 8, 2025

Labelled “brilliant” by Michael Skubala for his dominant nature in the middle of the park, Erhahon has won no fewer than 139 duels in League One this season as Lincoln secured a comfortable mid-table finish. Formerly of St Mirren, the 24-year-old is known for his abilities in both boxes, making him an ideal fit for a move up to the Championship if the correct opportunity presents itself.

Now, it remains to be seen who will win the battle for his signature. Derby and Blackburn have become foes on the pitch. Could they also continue that relationship away from the field of play?

In a major boost for those in the Midlands, Besiktas are now reportedly willing to listen to offers for a long-term Aston Villa target this summer and the Villans could finally get their man.

All eyes on Bournemouth for Aston Villa

Still battling to squeeze their way into the top five in the final three Premier League games, Aston Villa simply cannot afford anything but three points against a tough Bournemouth side this weekend. Everything is still to play for in the race for European football and anything could still happen. Even sat seventh, Unai Emery’s side should have plenty of hope.

Emery recently spoke about his side’s final run-in and how his side are taking it one game at a time, telling reporters: “Bournemouth, next week. Bournemouth. So, so difficult, Bournemouth. And then, we’ll see. We’ll see. Saturday, finished. Now Bournemouth.

“Before Saturday if we were thinking, ok, the next match is Bournemouth, the next match is Tottenham, Manchester United… if we weren’t winning, forget it! Completely! We have to go to each match and try to win. If we win like today, ok, the next one.”

Following their trip to Bournemouth, Aston Villa will square off against Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United to end their season. In many ways, nothing quite represents how much the Premier League has changed more than Villa’s fight for Champions League football coming against two bottom half sides who many tipped to be in the Villans’ position at the start of the campaign.

Aston Villa love "talented" £35m Rashford alternative as Monchi eyes move

There’s no guarantee that Rashford completes a permanent move…

ByTom Cunningham May 4, 2025

Things are likely to get even worse for Manchester United and Spurs if Villa qualify for a place among Europe’s elite too. With Champions League football to offer, those in the Midlands could instantly go in pursuit of major upgrades which may yet include one particular young star.

Besiktas now open to selling "dynamic" Kilicsoy

According to Fotomac in Turkey, as relayed by Sport Witness, Besiktas are now open to selling Semih Kilicsoy with Aston Villa already eyeing a summer swoop to finally land his signature. The 19-year-old first grabbed Villa’s attention last summer and was even reportedly the subject of a rejected offer. Now, a year on, a similar offer could be enough for the Turkish side to bid farewell to their young star.

Described as a “dynamic versatile forward” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Kilicsoy is undoubtedly one to watch. His first full season at senior level was incredibly impressive and since then he has not looked back.

In the current campaign, Kilicsoy has managed four goals and six assists – once again proving his ability to be a consistent outlet from either flank or, indeed, the player leading the line. With plenty of years between now and his peak, the teenager is not one that Villa will want to miss out on.

There is a high possibility that Arsenal will finish second in the Premier League for a third successive season, this time to Arne Slot’s Liverpool rather than Manchester City.

Mikel Arteta has constantly led the Gunners to a title battle in recent years, but has been unable to get them over the line and end their two-decade wait for a league triumph.

If they are to go one better in 2025/26, the hierarchy will have to back the manager in the transfer market to make the additions he desires to his first team squad.

There’s no denying that the Spaniard has serious qualities in various areas, but that’s not enough, with depth needed in key departments to sustain their ambitions in various competitions.

With the window just around the corner, new sporting director Andrea Berta has already wasted no time in drawing up his shortlist of potential targets for the off-season.

The latest on Arsenal’s hunt for new signings this summer

Additions are expected across the pitch for Arsenal this summer, mainly to avoid the injury crisis the side has often endured for large parts of the current campaign.

Bournemouth centre-back Dean Huijsen is the latest defender on their shortlist ahead of the window, with the Spaniard scoring against Arteta’s men on Saturday afternoon.

However, the 20-year-old isn’t the only defensive target on the agenda for the coming months, with Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia also on their radar, according to one Spanish outlet.

Their report states that the Gunners are preparing a £25m bid for the 24-year-old who has remerged as a target after previously being of interest just under 12 months ago.

It also claims that he’s seen as a quality competitor to David Raya for the number one position, but more importantly handing Arteta the depth needed in such an area.

Why Arsenal’s £25m target would make Saliba & Gabriel unplayable

Gabriel and William Saliba have been Arsenal’s go-to centre-back pairing when they’ve been fully fit in 2024/25, leading to their ambitions of securing the Premier League title.

Arteta’s side have conceded just 31 goals in their 35 league outings, currently boasting the best record in the division – an average of just 0.8 goals conceded per 90.

The pair have contributed to the club’s tally of 14 clean sheets this season, with only Nottingham Forest keeping more to date – showcasing their impressive work in the defensive department.

However, such a record could be bolstered in 2025/26 by the potential addition of Garcia, with the shot-stopper having the ability to take such feats to new levels.

When delving into his stats in LaLiga this campaign, his talents are there for all to see, improving the situation within the backline for Arteta.

He’s even managed to outperform current number one Raya in multiple key areas, outlining the pressure he could put on his compatriot should he move to the Emirates.

The 24-year-old, who’s been labelled “colossus” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has achieved a higher save percentage this season, along with more saves per 90 – showcasing his ability between the sticks.

Games played

33

35

Clean sheets

7

12

Save percentage

77%

74%

Saves per 90

3.7

2.2

Short passes completed

98%

98%

Crosses stopped

1.7

1.3

Shots-on-target faced

5.1

3.1

He’s also completed the same percentage of passes to date, along with more crosses stopped per 90 – offering Arteta a more all-round presence at the back.

£25m in today’s market is a bargain, especially for a player who possesses the quality like Garcia, as demonstrated by the figures he has produced in 2024/25.

If he were to make the switch to North London, he would be able to add yet more defensive quality to the already impressive backline, subsequently aiding Gabriel and Saliba’s chances of becoming unplayable.

Another Raheem Sterling: Arsenal make enquiry for £85m Premier League flop

Arsenal would be on for a Raheem Sterling repeat with this move.

3 ByMatt Dawson May 4, 2025

Chelsea held “very positive” transfer talks with the representatives of a top transfer target, just before their disappointing loss to Legia Warsaw in the Europa Conference League on Thursday.

Enzo Maresca blames rotation as Chelsea lose 2-1 to Legia Warsaw

The Premier League heavyweights are in the Conference League semi-finals after their aggregate win over Legia, but they did it in unconvincing fashion after their tepid loss at home to the European minnows last night.

Ornstein: £50m player wants to leave club fast after talks with Chelsea

Discussions have been held with his representatives.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 16, 2025

Goals from Tomas Pekhart and Steve Kapuadi cancelled out Marc Cucurella’s equaliser to hand the Poles a deserved win at Stamford Bridge, leading to small sections of boos around the stadium from Chelsea’s home crowd.

Manager Enzo Maresca has come under fire recently, leading Chelsea to just five league wins from their last 16, and he admitted in a post-match press conference that heavy rotation played a role during a dissatisfying performance from his side.

Fulham (away)

April 20th

Everton (home)

April 26th

Liverpool (home)

May 4th

Newcastle (away)

May 10th

Man United (home)

May 18th

“First of all, yeah, we are for sure not happy with the defeat,” said Maresca about Chelsea’s defeat to Legia.

“Probably the first leg, 0-3, probably we try to manage the result a little bit, rotate, make rotations with the players, try to avoid injury, because we have an important game also Sunday. So, as I said, for sure not happy with the result.

“We are in the semi-final, but at the same time, we were probably trying to manage a little bit the first leg, the result, we are there. But overall, the good thing is that we can rotate players, we don’t have an injury, that for us was the main target, because during the season we had many injuries, an important moment, and because it’s an important moment now, the last part of the season, the good news was that we don’t have injury.”

After Maresca highlighted the silver lining of no new injured Chelsea players, there has been more good news off the field, according to reliable journalist Simon Phillips.

Chelsea hold "very positive" Thursday talks with Dean Huijsen

It concerns Bournemouth defender and top transfer target Dean Huijsen, who is a wanted man across the Premier League after a very impressive season on the south coast under Andoni Iraola.

News of his £50 million release clause has piqued interest throughout England and further abroad, with Vincent Kompany also reportedly pushing Bayern Munich to sign Huijsen (Football Insider).

Writing via his Substack, Phillips has shared a fresh update on Maresca’s pursuit of the 20-year-old, stating that Chelsea held “very positive” talks with Huijsen’s camp on Thursday, and just before their defeat to Legia.

Following these discussions, Chelsea believe their chances of striking a deal for the “sensational” Spain international have increased.

“Chelsea have held new talks with the agents of Huijsen today, and talks have been described by sources as being very positive,” wrote the reporter.

“We have heard that the player’s father is very involved in the dealings as the main part of his entourage and he is asking for a fairly high agent fee, which we know Chelsea do not mind paying if other parts of the deal and fees can be reduced.

“Chelsea are now feeling more confident that they can land their man after talks today, mainly due to the fact that they are promising him game time and at the moment Liverpool are not able to do that with Virgil van Dijk just signing a new contract.”

Phillips’ source is also quoted as saying that Chelsea are “going all in” for Huijsen, so this comes as a very promising update on one of Europe’s most exciting young centre-backs.

Chelsea have now submitted an opening bid of £64m for an “incredible” striker, but they are set to face fierce competition for his signature from their Premier League rivals, according to a report.

Blues ramping up striker pursuit

The Blues looked toothless in front of goal yesterday afternoon, drawing 0-0 away at Brentford, with Christopher Nkunku once again failing to deliver at striker, having scored just three Premier League goals all season.

The performance at the Gtech Community Stadium underlined the need for Enzo Maresca to bring in a top striker in the summer transfer window, and the west Londoners have been ramping up their pursuit over the past few weeks.

There has been a positive update on the move for Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, with the Nigerian now setting his sights on a move to Stamford Bridge, while Maresca’s side are also plotting an approach for Lille striker Jonathan David, who is set to be available on a free transfer.

Chelsea now interested in signing £43m Inter Milan star alongside Thuram

The Blues have identified a new target ahead of the summer transfer window…

ByDominic Lund Apr 6, 2025

A number of Europe’s top strikers are on the shortlist, including Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, and a report from Spain has now revealed Chelsea have made their first move for the Swedish striker, submitting a €75m (£64m) bid for his services.

However, there may be fierce competition for Gyokeres’ signature, with Manchester United also submitting an offer of the same value, while recent reports have also detailed the Sporting star could be keen on a move to Arsenal following talks with sporting director Andrea Berta.

The Blues believe the forward will be able to adapt to life in the Premier League quickly, which is why they are willing to make a huge offer, and his goal record in Portugal this season indicates he could make an instant impact in Maresca’s side.

"Incredible" Gyokeres impressing in Portugal

The 26-year-old has been in simply sensational form for Sporting this season, amassing 43 goals and 11 assists in 43 appearances in all competitions, showcasing that he is ready for a big move to one of Europe’s top clubs.

Not only that, but the Sweden international, who has been lauded as “incredible”, ranks highly across a number of other key attacking metrics over the past year, when compared to his positional peers.

Statistic

Average per 90

Shot-creating actions

3.85 (95th percentile)

Progressive carries

4.29 (96th percentile)

Successful take-ons

1.18 (83rd percentile)

Touches (Att pen)

6.07 (86th percentile)

With Nkunku potentially in line to leave this summer, and Nicolas Jackson now without a goal in his last 10 Premier League games, it is clear the Blues will need to bring in a top striker this summer.

Gyokeres’ goal record indicates he could be one of the best options on the market, so it is exciting news that Chelsea have now made the first move by submitting an opening bid.