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There is no doubt that, as things stand, Bukayo Saka is Arsenal’s most important player.

Despite still being just 23 years old, the Hale End icon has already amassed a staggering tally of 70 goals and 71 assists in 263 appearances for the club.

On top of being a bona fide star for Mikel Arteta, the mercurial number seven is also one of England’s most important players and already has 44 senior caps to his name.

We are sure that there isn’t another player in the Three Lions squad the Arsenal faithful would rather have in their team, although we’re equally sure they wouldn’t mind nabbing Chelsea’s Cole Palmer as well.

So they should be delighted about reports heavily linking them with an international star who has been compared to both Saka and Palmer.

Arsenal target Saka & Palmer hybrid

There is still just under a month left until the summer transfer window comes to a close, but Arsenal have already been far busier than usual.

Transfer Focus

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

Andrea Berta has made six first-team additions so far, with the likes of Christian Norgaard and Noni Madueke coming to bolster the squad, while Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi have made their way to North London as marquee signings.

However, even though the Gunners have been more active than most fans expected they would be, the club still appear keen on making more additions to the team.

At least that is according to a recent report from Football Transfers, which reaffirms Arsenal’s concrete interest in Eberechi Eze.

In fact, it goes further than that, revealing that even though the potential sale of Fabio Vieira to VfB Stuttgart would have to be sorted first, an offer for the Crystal Palace star is ‘imminent.’

Interestingly, while the England ace has a release clause worth £68m in his current deal until August 15th, stories from earlier this month claimed that the North Londoners’ first offer will likely be worth around €60m, which is about £52m.

It’ll likely be a costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, but Eze has proven he’s worth the effort, especially as he’s been compared to both Saka and Palmer.

How Eze compares to Saka and Palmer

In this instance, the primary comparisons to Palmer and Saka stem from FBref, which analysed players in similar positions in the Premier League last season and concluded that the Crystal Palace star was the fourth most similar attacking midfielder or winger to the Chelsea ace and the ninth most similar to the Hale End gem.

Non-Penalty G+As

0.52

0.54

Shots

3.48

3.41

Goal-Creating Actions

0.35

0.42

Interceptions

0.38

0.31

Successful Take-On %

48.6%

45.1%

You can gain a better understanding of how these comparisons were made by examining the underlying numbers in which the Englishman ranked closely to his two compatriots.

In the former Manchester City gem’s case, these metrics included non-penalty goals plus assists, goal-creating actions, successful take-on percentage, interceptions and more, all per 90.

Non-Penalty Expected Goals

0.31

0.31

Shots

3.48

3.44

Passing Accuracy

74.2%

75.5%

Live Passes

29.5

33.5

Tackles Won

0.76

0.78

Clearances

0.35

0.42

Successful Take-Ons

2.33

2.14

Carries into the Final Third

1.67

1.67

In the case of the North Londoners’ crown jewel, the underlying numbers included metrics such as non-penalty expected goals, passing accuracy, live passes, shots, tackles won, clearances, successful take-ons and more, all per 90.

The comparisons to Saka are particularly encouraging as it paints a picture of a player who has the ability to be just as devastating in attack, while also being willing and able to help out in defence, which sounds like just the sort of attacker Arteta loves.

With all that said, while the comparisons to his two compatriots are certainly a positive sign, they aren’t the only reason the Premier League runners-up should be going out to sign the former QPR gem.

Another, just as important reason would be his output last season, as in just 43 appearances, totalling 3303 minutes, the midfield “magician,” as dubbed by pundit Micah Richards, was able to score 14 goals and provide 11 assists.

In other words, the 27-year-old maintained an average of a goal involvement every 1.72 games, or every 132.12 minutes, for a team that finished the season in mid-table.

Ultimately, it might not be an easy transfer to pull off, but Eze is such an incredibly gifted player that Arsenal should be doing all they can to sign him, especially given the comparisons to Saka and Palmer.

Arsenal can hand Arteta his own Isak-level signing in £100m Eze alternative

The incredible international could be a real game-changer for Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Aug 6, 2025

When it comes to picking the best Chelsea player of the last 20 years or so, fans are spoilt for choice.

Some will immediately think of Didier Drogba for his Champions League-winning goal, while others might point to Frank Lampard for his absurd record from the middle of the park.

You might even have some who lean towards John Terry for how he led the club through their greatest period ever.

However, for many, when it comes to pure skill and technique, it’s hard to look past Eden Hazard, and so fans should be excited about reports linking the club with a player who has shades of the Belgian about him.

Chelsea target ace with shades of Hazard

This summer has undoubtedly been one of Chelsea’s most positive in some time, as the club has not only achieved success on the pitch but also been busy and effective in the transfer market.

Transfer Focus

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

For example, the additions of Jamie Gittens, Joao Pedro and Liam Delap will make them far more dangerous going forward, and Jorrel Hato should make them more solid at the back.

And yet, even with all of these players in, and Xavi Simons likely to join them, the West Londoners are looking to do even more business and are targeting a player with Hazard-esque qualities.

At least that is according to a recent report from journalist Graeme Bailey, who has reaffirmed Chelsea’s intense interest in Alejandro Garnacho.

Baliey goes a step further, though, revealing that while other teams are interested in the Manchester United ace, the Blues have done the most work and are currently leading the race for his signature.

A price is not mentioned in the story, but other reports from this summer indicate that the final fee could reach around £40m, which might not be a bad price for someone as talented as Garnacho, especially not when he has shades of Hazard about him.

Garnacho's Hazard-esque qualities

Now, the first thing to stress here is that we are not claiming that Ganracho is as good as Hazard was during his time at Chelsea, nor would we even suggest he’s all that close at the moment.

However, there are some similarities between the pair, and it’s important to remember that the United ace is still only 21 years old, and therefore has at least five or six years until he should be hitting his peak.

With that said, one of the similarities that’s hard to ignore is how effective the Argentine is with the ball at his feet, which was most certainly one of the Belgian’s strengths – just look at a few of his highlights.

For example, according to FBref, the Madrid-born gem was in the top 6% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Premier League last seaosn for carries into the final third, the top 7% for progressive carries, the top 10 % for carries into the penalty area and the top 12% for progressive carrying distance, all per 90.

In other words, while the dynamic attacker can get the ball into dangerous areas with a pass, he’s even more effective at doing so with the ball at his feet and dribbling up the pitch.

Touches (Att Pen)

7.20

Top 6%

Carries into Final Third

2.95

Top 6%

Progressive Carries

5.77

Top 7%

Shots Total

3.44

Top 7%

Progressive Passes Rec

11.87

Top 8%

Total Carrying Distance

260.50

Top 8%

Shots on Target

1.19

Top 10%

Carries into Penalty Area

2.74

Top 10%

Tackles (Att 3rd)

0.53

Top 11%

Progressive Carrying Distance

132.81

Top 12%

On top of this key similarity, we have already seen that the eight-capped international “superstar,” as dubbed by journalist Liam Canning, is capable of the spectacular, much like the Blues ace was before him – that goal against Tottenham Hotspur always springs to mind.

The best example of the youngster doing something truly out of the ordinary was when he scored that sensational Puskas-winning goal against Everton at Goodison Park, in what might be the best bicycle kick we’ve ever seen, at least from a technique standpoint.

Finally, with a goal in the 2024 FA Cup final against Manchester City, we also know that the incredibly talented ace can thrive on the biggest of stages, just like Hazard did before him.

Ultimately, Garnacho has no match for the level the Belgian did before him, but he has shades of him in his game, and therefore, Chelsea should do what they can to bring him to Stamford Bridge this summer.

"Real puzzle" – Chelsea given Xavi Simons warning amid fascinating issue

The Dutchman could be Enzo Maresca’s next major signing this summer.

ByEmilio Galantini Aug 6, 2025

Celtic have not made many headline-making signings during the summer transfer window so far, but the return of Kieran Tierney has been the exception.

The Scotland international has returned to Parkhead after six years down south with Arsenal, putting pen to paper on a permanent deal after his deal at The Emirates expired at the start of this month.

Tierney has played four times in pre-season for the Scottish Premiership champions and registered an assist for Liam Scales in the 4-0 win over Newcastle United.

Celtic supporters can get excited about the prospect of watching the attack-minded left-back bombing up and down the left flank to make an impact in the final third next season.

However, it remains to be seen who will be playing ahead of him on the left wing on a regular basis, whether Daizen Maeda starts on the left or plays through the middle as a number nine.

Celtic hope for bargain deal for new winger

The Scottish giants are in the market to add another left-sided attacker to their squad before the end of the summer transfer window, and are keen on a star who would love Tierney.

Transfer Focus

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

According to the Daily Record, Celtic are refusing to give up on their long-standing pursuit of Royal Antwerp attacker Michel-Ange Balikwisha.

The report claims that the Belgian forward is out of contract next summer and that the Hoops hope to land a ‘cut-price’ deal for him, as the ‘cash-strapped’ Pro League side are open to selling.

However, Royal Antwerp have been reluctant to budge on their £5m valuation of the winger and negotiations are seemingly ongoing to find a middle ground.

The Daily Record adds that Balikwisha has been identified as a top target for the Hoops, and it is now down to them to reach an agreement with the Belgian side.

Why Michel-Ange Balikwisha would love Kieran Tierney

If Celtic can strike a deal for the 24-year-old forward, Balikwisha and Tierney could form an exciting connection down the left flank for Brendan Rodgers next season.

As shown by the left-back’s assist tally of 37 from his first spell at the club, the Scotland international is a full-back who loves to go down the outside to deliver crosses and create goals by holding the width.

This means that Tierney is the perfect foil for a left-sided attacker who wants to cut inside onto their right foot, because his energetic runs down the flank can draw attention away from the winger by giving the opposition’s defender an extra player to think about.

Therefore, Balikwisha could take advantage of that potential overload, depending on how much the other team’s right winger wants to track back, to either play Tierney into the space out wide or to dribble inside with the ball to exploit the space that the left-back’s run could create.

Starts

27

12

xG

6.46

2.65

Goals

7

4

Big chances created

6

7

Key passes per game

1.5

1.6

Assists

5

3

Based on the Belgian dynamo’s form in the Pro League in the last two seasons, as shown in the table above, the £5m-rated star could make a fairly big impact in the final third by playing with the former Arsenal man.

Balikwisha, who was described as a “creative” talent by analyst Will Glavin, has the quality to deliver both goals and assists for his side from the left flank, as he outperformed his xG and averaged 1.5 key passes or more per game across two years in his home country.

These statistics show that coupling him with Tierney down the left will cause the opposition’s right-back plenty of problems, whilst also forcing the other team’s manager to have to pull players from other positions to come and double up on them, possibly creating overloads elsewhere on the park.

Celtic make contact to sign promising star who could be Ajer 2.0

Celtic have made an enquiry about a young star who could be a Kristoffer Ajer repeat for the club.

1 ByDan Emery Jul 22, 2025

Therefore, signing Balikwisha could be a move that makes a lot of sense for Celtic and one that could be very effective for their left side next season.

What started as a rather miserable summer with the sacking of Ange Postecoglou has turned into what could be a brilliant one for Tottenham Hotspur.

Thomas Frank has a massive task ahead of him both domestically and on the continent next season, but Daniel Levy and Co appear intent on giving him what he needs.

After making the required signing of another young prospect in Japanese defender Kota Takai, the North Londoners made the massive £55m purchase of Mohammed Kudus.

The former West Ham United star is undoubtedly going to add something special to Frank’s attack, and now the club appear likely to land another Premier League star who’d be his dream ten.

Tottenham Hotspur target Premier League stars

In an understandable bid to improve their terrible domestic form ahead of next season, Spurs have seemingly made a concrete effort to target players who did exceptionally well in the Premier League last season.

Transfer Focus

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

One of those is Yoane Wissa, who, according to reports, could be available for around £50m.

That might sound like a lot for a 28-year-old Brentford player, but with 20 goals and five assists to his name in 39 appearances last season, he’d be more than worth the outlay.

That said, being a centre-forward, he is obviously not the target who could be Kudus’ dream ten; that tag goes to Morgan Gibbs-White.

Yes, in what is now turning into the latest transfer saga involving the North Londoners, a recent report from transfers expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Spurs have maintained their desire to sign the Nottingham Forest star.

The Italian journalist has claimed that, despite the Tricky Trees threatening legal action following the Lilywhites’ activation of the Englishman’s £60m release clause, the club remain confident that they will get their man.

That’s undoubtedly due to the player’s desire to make a move happen, with journalist Graeme Bailey also reporting that Gibbs-White has told Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis that he wishes to sign for Spurs. That’s despite interest from Manchester City.

Indeed, earlier in the window, it was reported that the Citizens have been working on a deal to sign the creative midfielder this summer and had allegedly already agreed on personal terms. Yet, they have preferred other options up to this point, namely new signing Rayan Cherki.

This deal would represent a serious financial commitment from the Europa League champions, but given Gibbs-White’s form last season, it’d be one worth making, especially as he’d be a dream ten for Kudus.

Why Gibbs-White would be a dream ten for Kudus

While there are several reasons why Gibbs-White would be a dream number ten for Kudus, one of the most crucial is simply his output.

For example, in just 34 appearances last season, totalling 2824 minutes, the “exceptional” midfielder, as dubbed by Pep Guardiola, scored seven goals and provided ten assists.

That means he averaged a goal involvement every other game, or one every 166.11 minutes, which is made all the more impressive by the fact that Forest only scored 58 goals in the league.

Appearances

34

Minutes

2824

Goals

7

Assists

10

Goal Involvements per Match

0.5

Minutes per Goal Involvement

166.11′

Just imagine then how many goals and assists the former Irons star could amass playing alongside someone that creative and effective.

Moreover, when we take a look at the 25-year-old’s underlying numbers, we can see some of the ways in which he could get the ball up to his potential future teammate.

For example, FBref ranked him in the top 8% of attacking midfielders and wingers for passes into the final third in the Premier League last season, and the top 9% for through balls, per 90, demonstrating exactly why some analysts believe that he is a “monster” in transitional phases of play.

Finally, it’s easy to overlook the simple fact that the Stafford-born ace is already proven in the league, so there should be little need for a bedding-in period, and therefore, he could start providing chances for the Ghanaian international from day one.

Ultimately, it will be an expensive deal, but Spurs look to be onto a winner with Gibbs-White, especially in tandem with Kudus.

Gibbs-White will love him: Spurs huge admirers of £80m Premier League star

Tottenham Hotspur’s huge transfer window has shown no signs of slowing down in recent days.

ByEthan Lamb Jul 14, 2025

Tottenham supporters will be hoping for a busy summer after their Europa League triumph in May, and their wish has been semi-granted thus far with two months remaining of the transfer window.

Tottenham in talks for £38m attacker who Levy thinks could be the next Mbeumo

Spurs are “advanced” in their pursuit.

ByEmilio Galantini Jul 1, 2025

Thomas Frank’s side are currently attempting a potential swoop for West Ham winger Mohammed Kudus, as reliably reported elsewhere, with positive talks underway between all parties as the African edges towards a London Stadium exit.

Arsenal and Chelsea have also held talks over Kudus, though, so Spurs may not have it their own way, and an intriguing three-way London battle for the 24-year-old’s signature could be about to unfold.

Chelsea are noted as serious rival contenders in particular, as noted by Stamford Bridge reporter Simon Phillips, via his Substack.

“Chelsea are working to try and sign Mohammed Kudus right now! But they may have to be quick due to Tottenham advancing on the deal. Newcastle are also keen as well as clubs in Saudi,” wrote Phillips.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

“On the player side, we’ve heard that he wants Chelsea but is also content to go to Spurs. He is just keen to move after not seeing eye to eye with Graham Potter.”

A move for Kudus would follow Tottenham’s cut-price £30 million permanent deal for Mathys Tel, who joined from Bayern Munich after an initial six-month loan spell, and their imminent signing of Kawasaki Frontale defender Kota Takai.

Tottenham agreed a £5 million deal to sign Takai recently – a J League record fee for a Japanese player (Fabrizio Romano).

He was identified by Johan Lange as a young player who could follow in the footsteps of Lucas Bergvall, Pape Sarr and Destiny Udogie (Alasdair Gold), and he’s expected to play a role in the senior matchday squad.

Kota Takai expected for Tottenham medical next week

Frontale have already confirmed that Takai will be leaving the club, and Sky Italia reporter Luca Bendoni now claims that the centre-half will soon touch down in N17.

Takai is expected to land at Tottenham “as soon as next week” to complete his move to the Lilywhites, with Frank on the verge of welcoming his second summer signing after Tel.

Takai played a key role for Frontale last season, helping them reach the AFC Champions League final, where they narrowly lost out to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli.

Frontale also knocked out Al-Nassr en route to the final, with Takai helping to silence the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Jhon Duran during their 3-2 victory over the Saudis.

The 20-year-old’s performances have done enough to impress scouts, and his development in the Premier League will be a very intriguing story.

Tottenham Hotspur are closing in on their second signing of the summer after their permanent deal for Mathys Tel, and the fee Spurs are about to pay for their newest arrival has set a record.

Tottenham preparing bid for £30m colossus wanted by Napoli, Milan and Inter

Spurs could scupper Antonio Conte in the race for his signature.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Jun 21, 2025

Spurs missed out on FC Copenhagen starlet Roony Bardghji earlier this week, with Barcelona ultimately winning the race for his signature, but Thomas Frank is still expected to be backed with more forward additions.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

One of their key aims before deadline day on September 1 is signing another proven winger, and one who could replace Son Heung-min if he does in fact leave the club for Saudi Arabia after 10 years.

“Son will get a big-money contract if he moves to Saudi Arabia,” said ex-Lilywhites scout Bryan King to Tottenham News recently.

“Everyone else who has gone there has received a big-money offer, so why would a player of Son’s stature not receive that same kind of offer.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if Tottenham receive a similar fee for Son as they did for Harry Kane. Son has been at Tottenham for 10 years, and he’s been a marvellous servant to the club. He has one year left on his contract, and Tottenham could cash in, as could the player.”

West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus, Man City outcast Jack Grealish, Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, Southampton sensation Tyler Dibling and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo have all been linked recently, as has Lazio’s Gustan Isaksen, with Frank reportedly very keen to sign the Dane (Lalaziosiamonoi.it).

However, they could also bolster their ranks with fresh young defensive talent, and that is expected to be the case with Kawasaki Frontale gem Kota Takai.

The 20-year-old, standing at a towering 6 foot 4, is apparently on the verge of joining Spurs from the J-League.

Tottenham agree £5 million fee to sign Kota Takai

Tottenham will pay around £5 million to sign Takai, according to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano, and this is apparently a J-League “record” for a Japanese player from that division.

Sharing further background on their surprise move for the talent, which practically came out of nowhere, reliable journalist Alasdair Gold has claimed that Takai was personally identified by technical director Johan Lange as a promising young player for the first-team, and one who could make a similar impact to the likes of Lucas Bergvall and Pape Sarr after a brief settling in period.

Takai has already won four senior caps for Japan at international level, and captained Kawasaki against Yokohoma F. Marinos back in April – a game where he also got on the scoresheet in a thrilling 3-3 draw.

He also played a key role at the back for Kawasaki in their run to the Asian Champions League final, beating Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr in the semi-finals before they eventually lost out to Al-Hilal.

Chelsea are set to try and ship out a host of different fringe players over the coming two months, as BlueCo look to trim their wage bill and keep in line with PSR regulations by raising funds.

Enzo Maresca’s side have done excellently to navigate their way around financial roadblocks to strengthen the squad consistently, ever since Clearlake Capital’s takeover of the club three years ago.

Chelsea looking to negotiate cut-price deal for £68m star who Maresca wants

The Blues appear poised to open talks.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 25, 2025

However, if they’re not successful in offloading certain squad members, this task will be made all the more difficult.

Cole Palmer

7.33

Moises Caicedo

7.02

Enzo Fernández

6.95

Nicolas Jackson

6.88

Noni Madueke

6.82

via WhoScored

Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell, who are on a combined salary of around £525,000-per-week, are back at Cobham after their 2024/2025 loan spells at Arsenal and Crystal Palace respectively.

Chelsea will want to find new homes for the England international duo sooner rather than later, and they could be joined by Lesley Ugochukwu, João Félix, David Datro Fofana, Carney Chukwuemeka, Armando Broja and Axel Disasi, who are all thought to be on the club’s ‘for sale’ list (The Athletic).

Chelsea could even sell Noni Madueke this summer, despite the Englishman being called one of Maresca’s “best players”, while striker Nicolas Jackson’s future is also up in the air.

There is also the curious case of Renato Veiga, who left Chelsea for Juventus on a loan deal midway through the season, mainly due to his determination to play as a centre-back rather than a full-back in Maresca’s system.

“I had a chat with Renato. I told him playing in the position he’s playing with us, it’s given him the chance to join the national team and created speculation around him, which only happens when you’re playing well,” said Maresca on Veiga’s dissatisfaction in the full-back role earlier this season.

“If there is a player that wants to play in just one position, they are going to struggle. They have to learn to play in different positions because it’s a good thing for the player and the club.”

Renato Veiga "surprised" by Chelsea decision with sale possible

As per journalist Graeme Bailey, after returning from his loan spell at Juve, Veiga was left “very surprised” by Chelsea’s decision to omit him from the Club World Cup squad.

What’s more, it hasn’t been ruled out that the defender could be one of a five-man defensive exodus before deadline day – with Veiga, Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin, Benoit Badiashile and Disasi all on the chopping block.

“It’s a fascinating situation with Veiga, he was very surprised he wasn’t included in the Club World Cup squad,” said Bailey.

“There were indications from Chelsea that he would get a chance in a left-sided centre-back role — but Chelsea have so many centre-backs it’s staggering, and they still want more.

“It’s not beyond the realms of possibility that Chalobah, Tosin, Badiashile, Disasi and Veiga could all be sold.

“People keep asking why Chelsea can spend so much money, well, there’s five reasons why PSR isn’t a concern.

“But Veiga had a really good time at Juventus, playing at centre-back. And that’s why he left Chelsea on loan in the first place, he didn’t want to be a left-back, even if he was quite good at it.

“Chelsea were happy with him on the left but he turned up at Stamford Bridge wanting to be a centre-back. Now he’s gone to Juventus, played well, and he thought he’d done enough to warrant a spot at the Club World Cup to prove himself as a centre-back.”

Over the years gone by, the Manchester United faithful have been blessed with countless attacking talents who have led them to numerous triumphs domestically and continentally.

Cristiano Ronaldo, George Best and Wayne Rooney are just three players from separate times who have starred at Old Trafford – with the latter remaining their record scorer to this day.

However, current boss Ruben Amorim unfortunately doesn’t have the same luxury, with main striker Rasmus Hojlund’s drought of 21 games without a goal earlier this season showcasing the problems they’ve faced.

The Dane has struggled to provide value for money after costing £72m back in the summer of 2023, with a move away from the club potentially on the cards before the end of the transfer window.

Any funds generated from such a move could allow the manager to land a new talisman who could offer the huge presence needed in their hopes of a revival in 2025/26.

The latest on United’s hunt for a new talisman

With Matheus Cunha already arriving, but likely to operate in a number 10 role, Amorim will want the hierarchy to hand him added funds to make the big-money addition he craves at the top end.

Viktor Gyokeres has been one of the main targets in recent months, but a deal for the Swede appears to be dead in the water after it was confirmed he’s only interested in a move to Arsenal.

Such a turn of events over the last few days has seen a new name enter the mix, with Victor Osimhen the latest striker in their sights, according to one GOAL journalist.

He claims that the Red Devils have already made contact with the Nigerian’s representatives after he scored 37 times in 41 appearances on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli this season.

Transfer Focus

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

Furlan also states that they face competition from PSG, Chelsea and Arsenal for his signature, after he rejected a big-money move to Saudi Arabia earlier this summer.

Why Osimhen would be a better signing than Ekitike for United

In their hunt for a new striker, United have stumbled across Eintracht Frankfurt talisman Hugo Ekitiké in an attempt to improve the options at Amorim’s disposal.

The Frenchman has starred in the Bundesliga throughout 2024/25, registering 23 combined goals and assists in his 33 league outings – but he could cost a pretty penny this summer.

He’s also on the radar of fellow Premier League sides Arsenal and Chelsea, but any interested party will have to fork out a fee in the region of £84m to land the talisman.

There’s no denying he’s a quality player, as seen by his impressive tally this campaign, but such a fee may prove to be too expensive – especially when considering the other options on the table.

Osimhen would certainly be a better signing, with the stats from their respective campaigns highlighting why the hierarchy should pursue a move for the Nigerian’s signature this summer.

The Napoli ace, who’s been labelled “the best striker on the market” by Statman Dave, has massively outscored Ekitike, whilst also posting a higher goal per shot on target rate – showcasing his clinical edge in the final third.

He’s also managed to win more aerials than the Frankfurt star, handing Amorim the focal point he needs in the attacking areas, subsequently offering a different dimension to the Red Devils’ attack.

Games played

30

33

Goals & assists

31

23

Goals per shot on target

0.4

0.3

Shot-on-target accuracy

52%

38%

Aerials won

4.6

1.8

Aerial success rate

64%

45%

Take-on success

60%

44%

Whilst he’s likely to command a higher pay packet to prise him to the North West, it’s a price worth paying given the difference between the quality of the two options.

If the club are to have any chance of returning to their former glory in the near future, top-level talents are required, with Osimhen just the man to do that given his record within the final third in recent seasons.

Huge Hojlund upgrade: Wilcox opens talks to sign "new Mbappe" for Man Utd

Ruben Amorim wants to sign a new centre-forward this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 15, 2025

Arsenal have now held talks over a deal for an “unbelievable” forward, amid doubts over Gabriel Martinelli’s future, according to a report.

Gunners could now be ready to sell Martinelli

It has been revealed that Mikel Arteta may now be ready to sell Martinelli this summer, as the manager looks to reshuffle his squad, and AC Milan have emerged as potential suitors, with Rafael Leao’s future at the San Siro still very much up in the air.

Should the Gunners decide to cash in on the Brazilian, they would be looking to receive a fee of at least £50m, although he is currently planning to fight for his place in the starting XI, and has no plans of pushing for a move elsewhere.

It would certainly seem harsh to sell the 23-year-old, considering he has been a regular source of goals and assists over the past four seasons, but Arteta has shown he is willing to make big decisions in the past, most notably replacing Aaron Ramsdale with David Raya.

Season

PL appearances

Goals

Assists

2021-22

29

6

6

2022-23

36

15

6

2023-24

35

6

4

2024-25

33

8

4

According to a report from Football Transfers, Arsenal have now held talks over a deal to sign West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus, who could seemingly be brought in as a replacement for Martinelli, as he is said to be capable of playing on both flanks.

However, the two London clubs may be some way apart in their valuation of Kudus, as he has a €100m (£84m) release clause in his West Ham contract, while the Gunners are hesitant to stump up more than €55m-€60m (£46m – £51m).

The Ghanaian is keen to leave the Hammers this summer, as he intends to play in Europe next season, meaning a move to the Emirates Stadium could be of great appeal, although Chelsea and Newcastle United are also in the race for his signature.

"Unbelievable" Kudus could excel at the Emirates

The 2024-25 campaign was not the 24-year-old’s best, picking up just five goals and three assists in the Premier League, but he was part of a West Ham side that underperformed as a whole, and the winger’s previous exploits indicate he could be a success at Arsenal.

Indeed, the former Ajax man enjoyed a very impressive debut campaign in England, amassing 14 goals and nine assists in all competitions, during which time he was lauded as “unbelievable” by teammate Michail Antonio.

Antonio was left particularly blown away by the winger’s dribbling ability, which was also on display regularly last season, despite not setting up or scoring as many goals as in previous campaigns.

There are certainly signs that Kudus could kick on at the Emirates Stadium, but that said, he should not be brought in as a direct replacement for Martinelli, considering the Brazil international is still young, and it would be very harsh to sanction his departure this summer.

La Liga heavyweights Real Madrid are said to be targeting another Arsenal star, amid their strong links to William Saliba, coming as new contract talks with the former take a negative turn.

Real Madrid still eyeing William Saliba despite signing Dean Huijsen

Some Gunners supporters may have been optimistic at one stage that Real’s signing of defender Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth would spell the end of their interest in Saliba, but this is unfortunately far from the truth.

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The France international, who’s been a vital presence at the heart of Mikel Arteta’s defence since 2022/2023, having formed an indomitable partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes, will leave the Emirates for nothing in 2027 as things stand.

Nottingham Forest 0-0 Arsenal

8.07

Aston Villa 0-2 Arsenal

7.87

Arsenal 2-0 Man United

7.66

Ipswich Town 0-4 Arsenal

7.28

Arsenal 1-0 Ipswich Town

7.26

via WhoScored

Arsenal have opened talks with Saliba over a new contract in an effort to ward off Real, and while some outlets even claim an extension is all but agreed (Football Transfers), this appears to be wide of the mark for now.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Saliba remains a “dream” signing for Real, regardless of their Huijsen deal, and they remain watchful of developments regarding the 24-year-old’s contract situation.

“The dream target has always been William Saliba,” said Romano on his YouTube channel.

“My information is that Real Madrid understood at the beginning of May that Saliba this summer was impossible to reach as a target because, for Arsenal, he is a crucial player and they are discussing a new contract with William Saliba.

“So Real Madrid’s position on Saliba is clear – they will sign Dean Huijsen now, but Saliba remains a dream target for them. Arsenal will have the ball in their court to close the agreement, keep Saliba at the club and extend his contract. Otherwise, if this contract won’t be extended, Real Madrid will be there.”

Real Madrid eye Myles Lewis-Skelly as Arsenal contract talks go sour

In more concerning news for Arteta, it is now believed that Real are also keeping a very watchful eye on breakout star Myles Lewis-Skelly.

The Hale End academy graduate made the left-back spot his own this season, putting in some truly exceptional displays which have also resulted in Thomas Tuchel’s nod for the England squad.

The 18-year-old’s form is turning heads at the Bernabeu as a result, with journalist Jonathan Wilson telling The Guardian’s ‘Football Weekly’ that Arsenal’s talks over a contract extension for Lewis-Skelly have been going sour.

“They’ve got to sort out Myles Lewis-Skelly’s contract which expires next summer and I think talks have not been going well from what I hear,” said Wilson.

“Real Madrid are sort of sniffing around there. Imagine Real Madrid wanting a highly-rated Premier League fullback for free. Almost unimaginable, isn’t it?”

Losing the teenage sensation to La Liga, especially on a free, would be a truly dire situation for Arsenal, and it is little surprise Real are considering a Trent Alexander-Arnold-esque deal to bring in one of England’s brightest young defenders at no transfer cost.

Tying down Lewis-Skelly will now be even higher up Andrea Berta’s to-do list, especially considering the newly-found interest from Xabi Alonso’s side.