Spurs likely to favour Raphinha deal

An update has emerged on Tottenham Hotspur and their plans to bring in a new forward in the summer transfer window… 

What’s the talk?

Express reporter Ryan Taylor has suggested that they are more likely to go for Leeds star Raphinha than Everton’s Richarlison in the coming weeks.

Fabio Paratici is looking to add to Antonio Conte’s attacking unit and Taylor believes that the former Rennes magician is the main target.

He told GIVEMESPORT: “I think Spurs are edging slightly more towards Raphinha at the moment.

“I think if you look at Richarlison’s profile, my personal view is he’s mainly better centrally and if you look at Tottenham’s side, he won’t have many opportunities through the middle. Outside of that, he sometimes plays off the left, and Son plays there as well.”

Supporters will be excited

Spurs supporters will be excited by this claim as Raphinha would be a sublime addition to Conte’s squad for the 2022/23 campaign.

Since arriving in England, the Whites gem has scored 17 goals and provided 12 assists in the Premier League – including 11 goals last term – whilst playing out wide on the right.

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In that time, Richarlison has managed 17 goals and eight assists whilst playing on the left and through the middle as a centre-forward.

This means that Raphinha has been more productive than him in the final third, despite the Everton man spending time as a number nine, and this suggests that he would be the better signing.

There is little between them in terms of their scope for development. They are both 25 and heading toward the peak years of their respective careers, which means that they would both come in with the potential to improve in the years to come.

Therefore, it should be a matter of current ability and suitability for the team. Taylor explained why Raphinha suits Tottenham’s team more than Richalison and the statistics suggest that the Leeds man is also the better player with his ability to score and assist goals on a regular basis from out wide.

The Spurs supporters will be excited by the prospect of the ex-Ligue 1 attacker coming through the door as he will provide another big attacking threat in the final third. He can support the likes of Heung-Min Son, Harry Kane and Dejan Kulusevski to form a mouth-watering attack in the top-flight next season.

AND in other news: Conte could land Spurs masterclass in deal for “explosive” £30m gem, he’s Foden-esque…

Leeds: Tyalor drops Camara update

Ryan Taylor has dropped an update on reported Leeds United transfer target Mohamed Camara.

What’s the talk?

In a recent post on Twitter, the Daily Express journalist revealed that, following a number of reports linking Victor Orta with a move for the Red Bull Salzburg midfielder this summer, the Austrian side have now excused the 22-year-old from their pre-season training camp in order for the Mali international to resolve his future.

Taylor goes on to claim that the Whites have been in direct contact with the midfielder’s representatives regarding a potential summer switch, with Salzburg believed to be demanding a figure in the region of £25m in order to part with the former FC Liefering starlet this summer.

Finally, the journalist claims that Camara himself is open to the possibility of a move to the Premier League ahead of the 2022/23 campaign, while Graham Potter’s Brighton & Hove Albion are also said to be pursuing a deal for the 15-cap international.

In his tweet, Taylor said: “Red Bull Salzburg have excused Mohamed Camara from their pre-season training camp, so midfielder can resolve his future. Leeds have been in direct contact with his representatives. 22-year-old is valued between £17m-£25m & wants PL move. Brighton also in mix.”

“Top replacement”

With Kalvin Phillips looking set to secure a £42m move to Manchester City in the coming days, it is not difficult to understand why Victor Orta now appears to have stepped up his efforts to bring the RB Salzburg midfielder to Elland Road this summer.

Indeed, over his 25 Austrian Bundesliga appearances last season, the £24.3m-rated Malian was in spectacular form, scoring one goal, providing three assists and creating three big chances for his teammates, as well as taking an average of 0.9 shots, making 1.0 key pass and completing 1.8 dribbles per game.

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The £2.9k-per-week talent also impressed in metrics more typical of a holding midfielder, making an average of 1.3 interceptions, 1.9 tackles, 45.8 passes, 4.8 long balls and winning 6.4 duels – at a success rate of 61% – per fixture.

These returns saw the player who Conor McGilligan dubbed a “top replacement” for Phillips average a simply sensational SofaScore match rating of 7.20, ranking him as the tenth-best player in the entire division last time out.

Camara also impressed over his eight fixtures in the Champions League, making an average of 1.5 interceptions, 2.1 tackles, 40.3 passes, 3.6 long balls and winning 7.4 duels – at a success rate of 58% – per outing, with these returns seeing the 22-year-old average an extremely admirable SofaScore match rating of 6.94 – ranking him as Matthias Jaissle’s second-best performer in Europe’s most prestigious club competition.

As such, with there soon to be a Phillips-shaped hole that will require filling in Jesse Marsch’s midfield, it is clear to see that the player who himself claimed has “three lungs” would appear to be an exceptional replacement for the England international – with Taylor’s latest update sure to be news that will leave supporters of the Whites buzzing.

AND in other news: Orta given green light for “supreme” £35m Leeds signing, it’d be a massive coup

Carvalho set for pre-season role at LFC

New Liverpool signing Fabio Carvalho will be used in the front three during the Reds’ pre-season, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The Lowdown: Carvalho signs for Liverpool

The youngster joined the Premier League giants from Fulham earlier in the summer, having shone for the west London club during their promotion-winning 2021/22 season.

Carvalho scored 10 goals and registered eight assists in the Championship last term, which clearly caught the attention of Jurgen Klopp and the recruitment team at Anfield.

The 19-year-old can play in midfield or in a more attacking role, and an interesting update has emerged regarding Liverpool’s proposed use of him.

The Latest: Jones makes Carvalho claim

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Jones claimed that Carvalho would be trialled in the front three by Klopp during Liverpool’s pre-season.

The reporter suggested:

“They’re going to test out Fabio Carvalho in that frontline in pre-season, just to see whether he’s actually ready for it and it might be that he gets more of a role next season in that frontline than we might envisage.”

Darwin’s a Red! Get your special edition Darwin Nunez tee here. The Verdict: Great option to have

Versatility is always a bonus in any player and Carvalho possesses that in abundance, which only adds to his potential brilliance as a signing.

The former Fulham man can excel in a number 10 role, which has been his main position, but it will be interesting to see him in attack, likely cutting in from the left-hand side in a similar vein to Luis Diaz.

While Carvalho is unlikely to be a regular starter straight away next season, a strong pre-season for Liverpool in attack could show that he is more than ready to be a mere impact substitute.

In other news, Liverpool are reportedly ready to sign a Premier League star. Find out who it is here.

Liverpool: Hutson drops Jones exit claim

Newly-promoted Nottingham Forest are interested in signing Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones this summer, according to Midlands-based journalist Trent Hutson. 

The lowdown: Liverpool prodigy

A product of the thriving youth system at Anfield, the youngster captained the club at numerous age groups whilst making his way through the ranks on Merseyside.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the Toxteth native was fast-tracked to the first team and capped off a Merseyside derby debut to remember with a majestic strike in January 2020 whilst on a rapidly upwards trajectory, amassing 41 goals in 80 outings for the young Reds at under-18 and under-23 level.

After 73 appearances for the first-team under Jurgen Klopp, a move away could now be the next step in the 21-year-old’s development…

The latest: Forest keen on Jones

Taking to Twitter, Hutson has claimed that Forest are looking to land the England under-21 starlet on loan this summer.

The reporter stated: “I’m told #NFFC will explore the possibility of bringing Curtis Jones to the club this summer. Caution to be taken given the MAX TWO loan rule in the Premier League. Strong relationship & trust between Steve Cooper and #LFC. Cooper previously worked with Jones at England and #LFC”

The verdict: On one condition

Spending time out on loan and obtaining regular Premier League action would undoubtedly be a huge positive for Jones’ development. However, Liverpool – and Klopp in particular – must ensure that the squad allows for such a departure to take place without having an adverse impact on the playing ranks at the AXA Training Centre.

Last season, the flamboyant ace scored once and provided four assists in 27 appearances across all competitions for the Reds, starting 11 top-flight matches in the process. Those levels of involvement are unlikely to be found from other midfielders within the current squad, as Thiago, James Milner, Fabinho, Naby Keita and Jordan Henderson are already stretched to their very limits of exertion.

Far from an affront to the prospects of the youngster, who is valued at £25.2m and under contract until 2025 (Transfermarkt), the Scouser should remain an integral part of the future on the red half of Merseyside; and any loan move which may manifest itself this summer would very much be viewed as a short-term way of progressing a supremely talented individual.

Held in high regard by Steven Gerrard himself after the Anfield icon hailed Jones as a ‘top player’ during his time in charge of the under-18s, Liverpool should be reticent to sanction any exit for the talented youngster until another genuine first-team midfield option is through the door.

In other news: Liverpool now considering big-money move for ‘world class’ powerhouse, read more here

Liverpool man linked with move to rivals

Liverpool midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could make a shock move to Manchester United this summer, according to talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook.

The Lowdown: Ox set to leave

The 28-year-old looks highly likely to leave the Reds before the start of next season, having dropped way out of favour under Jurgen Klopp, despite being hailed as ‘fantastic’ by Rio Ferdinand.

Oxlade-Chamberlain didn’t play a single minute of action in the last couple of months of 2021/22, suggesting there is no future for him at Anfield.

The midfielder’s current deal expires next summer, meaning this is the last chance for Liverpool could receive a good amount of money for his services.

The Latest: Journalist makes shock claim

According to talkSPORT‘s Crook, United are ‘contemplating’ making a shock move for Oxlade-Chamberlain, as they look to bolster their options moving forward.

If the Reds are willing to accept an offer of £10million, it is claimed that their bitter rivals would attempt to sign him.

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The Verdict: Surely not?

It would be a huge shock if Oxlade-Chamberlain opted to join United this summer, given the rivalry that exists between the two clubs throughout history.

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His legacy would be tarnished by doing such a thing, as Michael Owen has shown in the past, while Liverpool will also surely be looking for more than £10million for their player.

Oxlade-Chamberlain will almost certainly leave this summer but expect to see him at a different Premier League club than United, with former side Southampton also mentioned in the report.

In other news, James Pearce is thrilled by a piece of Liverpool transfer news. Read more here.

Manchester City: Kalvin Phillips talks are ‘in progress’

Talks are ‘in progress’ between Manchester City and Leeds United for midfielder Kalvin Phillips, according to journalist Rudy Galetti.

The Lowdown: Fernandinho’s departure

After nine years in Manchester, Fernandinho is set to leave the Etihad Stadium this month upon the expiry of his contract.

The 37-year-old went on to become a staple in City’s midfield, having amassed a stunning 383 appearances for the club. The former Brazil international helped the Sky Blues to lift a sensational 14 trophies, five of which were Premier League titles.

Given Fernandinho’s imminent departure, Pep Guardiola will be analysing the market in search of an adequate replacement, someone who can take hold of the reins in midfield.

The Latest: Galetti’s news

Leeds stalwart Phillips has previously been reported to be on City’s radar this summer; and taking to Twitter, Galetti has now shared the latest news on the 26-year-old’s proposed move to the Premier League champions.

He outlined: “Contacts between #ManCity and #Leeds for Kalvin #Phillips are in progress. The aim of the [Blues] is to get to the heart of the negotiation soon in order to anticipate the high competition. #Calciomercato #Transfers #MCFC”

The Verdict: Good replacement

With City set to miss Fernandinho’s defensive strengths, the prospective arrival of Phillips could help to fill the void in Guardiola’s midfield.

When compared with positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year, the England international ranks in the 98th percentile for pressures, the 97th percentile for tackles and the 96th percentile for blocks (via FBRef).

Described by legendary manager Fabio Capello as ‘the best modern midfielder’ he has seen, it is easy to understand why the Citizens are so keen on bringing the Leeds native to the Etihad, as he appears to have the attributes to be their long-term successor to the iconic Fernandinho.

In other news: Sky Sports expert says club could have agreement in place for Kyle Walker

Man United join Matheus Nunes transfer race

Manchester United are now in the running to sign Matheus Nunes from Sporting Lisbon, according to Portuguese newspaper Correio de Manha (via Sport Witness).

The lowdown

Central midfield is a priority for Erik ten Hag ahead of the summer transfer window, with two additions planned in that position (via The Athletic).

The 23-year-old is a willing and effective dribbler who is also strong in the passing department (via WhoScored). He played most of his football last season as the left central midfielder in a 3-4-2-1 formation at the Estadio Jose Alvalade.

Nunes’ contract is said to contain a release clause of €60m, which equates to £51.3m.

The latest

Correio de Manha reported (via Sport Witness) that United have ‘joined the race’ to sign Nunes, along with their crosstown rivals Manchester City.

The Red Devils have begun considering the Portuguese midfielder following the departure of Paul Pogba, but although both clubs are said to enjoy a good relationship with Sporting, City reportedly have the edge at the moment.

While the 23-year-old does have that aforementioned release clause, Sporting would listen to offers of €50m (£42.8m) in addition to taking a player on loan.

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The verdict

Nunes would be a good signing for the Red Devils.

He has won seven caps for Portugal, who are ranked eighth in the world, and he was named the Primeira Liga’s best midfielder for October and November this season.

He earned mighty praise from City manager Pep Guardiola, who called him ‘one of the best players in the world’ following their meeting in the Champions League round of 16 earlier this year.

United will no doubt be encouraged by the efforts of Bruno Fernandes since his move from Sporting in January 2020, with the 27-year-old scoring 50 goals and setting up another 39 in his first 126 appearances for the club, and hopefully they can land another top talent from the Lisbon outfit in Nunes.

In other news, read this journalist’s reaction to a crucial off-field development at Old Trafford

Tottenham: Lilywhites push for ‘genius’ signing after Conte call

Tottenham Hotspur are pushing for a major summer signing with manager Antonio Conte making a call ‘in recent days’, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Spurs summit held…

As has been widely reported, Spurs transfer chief Fabio Paratici has recently held a summit with Conte in Italy as the pair sit down and discuss summer window plans.

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The Premier League side, having recently secured a previously unthought of finish in the top four, could also be handed a £150 million transfer windfall after ENIC and chairman Daniel Levy announced a capital increase.

A real air of positivity has currently swept through the Lilywhites ahead of what will be an extremely interesting few months before Conte’s first full season in charge.

Of the big name targets linked with a move to north London, Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni is thought to be high on the agenda.

As Paratici and co also reportedly close in on the signing of Ivan Perisic from the San Siro side, journalist Pasquale Guarro has a promising update on Spurs’ pursuit of the centre-half.

The Latest: Lilywhites ‘push’ after Conte call ‘in recent days’…

According to the Calciomercato reporter, Bastoni has ‘received the call of Conte’ in ‘recent days’ as the club ‘push’ for his signing.

He explained (via Twitter):

“There is not only Perisic in the aims of #Tottenham , the “Spurs” push for Bastoni and in recent days the defender has received the call of Conte .”

The Verdict: Good news…

The 23-year-old, lauded as a ‘world class’ player by members of the press, has also been lavished as a ‘defensive genius’ by Italian football expert Conor Clancy (GiveMeSport).

While reports suggest he could cost a large £51m, Bastoni’s age and already glowing reputation indicate he could well be worth the investment – not least because he already has experience working under Conte.

Amid Tottenham’s search for an astute left-footed defender for the 52-year-old’s back three, we believe it is no surprise that the Inter ace is a prime target as the club make a real push.

In other news; Conte could see ‘one of the best in the world’ join Tottenham after behind-scenes demand, find out more here.

Everton eye Newcastle midfielder Almiron

Reliable journalist Roberto Rojas has revealed that Everton are among a number of clubs who are now ‘interested’ in signing Miguel Almiron this summer.

The Lowdown: Out of favour

The 28-year-old has been largely out of favour at Newcastle this season, having played the full 90 minutes on just five occasions in total (Transfermarkt).

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It is expected that the Magpies will bring in a handful of quality signings after their January spending spree, which may leave fringe players like Almiron out in the cold and likely to be moved on.

The Latest: Everton interest in Almiron

Taking to Twitter, Rojas has revealed that Everton are one of four teams who would be ‘interested’ in signing the Paraguay international, should he be made available for transfer.

The reporter stated: “Sources tell me that Miguel Almiron is highly praised by Eddie Howe & the #NUFC brass but would also like to play a huge part at the club next season.

“Everton, Fulham, Sevilla & Napoli are among the clubs interested in the Paraguay international should a transfer be needed.”

The Verdict: Sign him

If Newcastle are willing to let Almiron go, then the Toffees could get a good deal for him, especially with only two years left on his contract at St James’ Park.

Once dubbed ‘magnificent’ by Magpies legend Alan Shearer, the Paraguay international does possess abundant technical qualities, as demonstrated by his delightful effort against Crystal Palace which won April’s Premier League Goal of the Month award.

He has ample experience of playing in the Premier League, so he should be able to settle in fairly quickly on Merseyside should he end up making the move to Frank Lampard’s side.

In other news, Everton are now ‘front of the queue’ to sign this player

Southampton: Italian source shares big Brekalo update

An Italian source has now shared a big Southampton transfer update involving Wolfsburg forward and Torino loanee Josip Brekalo.

The Lowdown: Saints eye attackers…

Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl reportedly has attacking signings in his sights as he gears up for the 2022/2023 Premier League season.

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The likes of Liam Delap of Man City have recently been linked alongside more senior options like Taiwo Awoniyi of Union Berlin, coming as Southampton’s chances of sealing a permanent deal for Chelsea loanee Armando Broja reportedly grow thin.

Club chief Martin Semmens is tasked with backing Hasenhuttl over what could be a crucial summer window at St. Mary’s, and according to reports, they’ve already made a pre-summer move.

The Latest: Southampton open talks…

According to Calciomercato.it, Southampton have now opened talks for Brekalo amid his brilliant season on a temporary spell at Torino – making contact with either a ‘formal request for information’ or ‘draft offer’.

Indeed, the Saints, along with Atletico Madrid, Eintracht Frankfurt and West Ham are thought to have made ‘concrete moves’ for the Croatia international.

The Verdict: Push on?

The 30-cap attacker has played brilliantly in Serie A over the course of 2021/2022, prompting members of the media to call his form ‘frightening’ in parts (Josh Bunting, Islington Gazette).

Ranking as one of Torino’s top-five performers going by average match rating, Brekalo also boasts the highest number of key passes made per 90 in the final third out of any regular under Ivan Juric (WhoScored).

The 23-year-old, who still has many years ahead at the top, is also level with teammates Andrea Belotti and Sasa Lukic in terms of goals and assists combined (WhoScored).

He comes as a fairly promising new transfer target and one who could demand just €10 million (£8.4m) on Southampton’s part.

In other news: Southampton also want ‘extraordinary’ 10/10 colossus who has sights set on a move to England! Find out more here.

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