Manchester United have now identified an “unbelievable” manager as their first-choice target to replace Ruben Amorim, amid the uncertainty surrounding the 40-year-old’s future.
Amorim not out of the woods despite improved results
Frank Ilett, the fan who has vowed not to cut his hair until Man United win five games in a row, probably hasn’t gotten his hopes up just yet, but Amorim has made some improvements in recent weeks, guiding his side to wins in two of their last three Premier League games.
On paper, the fixture list looks relatively kind until late October, with the Red Devils set to take on Brentford away this Saturday, before taking on Sunderland at Old Trafford the following week, giving Amorim a golden opportunity to buy himself some more time.
However, the United boss will be well-aware that things must start improving, given that he is currently regarded as one of the worst appointments since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.
It has now been revealed the Man United hierarchy have started making plans for life after Amorim, with a report from TEAMtalk revealing that AFC Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is the number one choice to replace the Portuguese coach.
Iraola, who is one of the most sought-after managers in Europe, is being closely monitored by the Red Devils, having transformed Bournemouth’s fortunes since replacing Gary O’Neil back in the summer of 2023.
INEOS are said to view the Spaniard as an elite coach, with the capabilities of managing a top club, and they have been impressed with the way in which he has implemented his system at the Vitality Stadium.
"He was our best player" – Amorim told Man Utd star is "suffering" more than Bruno in new role
He’s yet to show his best form this season…
ByTom Cunningham Sep 24, 2025 "Unbelievable" Iraola could be perfect Amorim replacement
Sky Sports’ Sue Smith waxed lyrical about the job the 43-year-old has done with the Cherries earlier this year, describing the work he’s done as “unbelievable”.
The Bournemouth boss, who likes to implement a 4-2-3-1 system, led his side to a ninth-placed finish in the Premier League last season, and he has made a flying start to the new campaign.
Despite losing a number of key players in the summer, such as Dean Huijsen, Ilya Zabarnyi, Milos Kerkez and Dango Ouattara, the Cherries have taken ten points from their opening five games, with arguably their most impressive victory coming away at Tottenham Hotspur.
Having now proven himself in the Premier League over a sustained period of time, Iraola could be the ideal replacement for Amorim, but it appears as though INEOS are willing to give the current manager a little while longer, after two wins in the last three league games.
After the perfect start against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Newcastle United’s Nick Woltemade has revealed how he’s similar to the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Bayern Munich star Harry Kane.
Howe "really pleased" with "humble" Woltemade
Eddie Howe couldn’t have asked for much more from his £69m striker on his debut last time out. The 6’6 forward rose highest to head home what proved to be the winning goal against Wolves, before wheeling away in celebration. After waiting all summer for a new striker, St James’ Park got the emphatic introduction that they had been desperate for.
Like the rest of those watching on in Tyneside, Howe was left delighted with Woltemade, telling reporters: “It was a great moment for Nick. I was very pleased with how he played today.
“You saw his qualities, his technical qualities that we’ve been discussing and his intelligence but most importantly for a striker, when the ball comes into the box, you need to be there and he was.
“It was a great finish. I’m really pleased for him personally because that just settles him down and relaxes him, he’s a very humble guy, he wants to do well and he’s delighted to be here — I think it’s a great start.”
Woltemade’s debut goal would have surprised no one back in Germany. There’s every reason why Bayern Munich were so keen to secure his signature and even more reason why he stole the show at the U21 Euros in the summer. Now, he’s the man that could make Newcastle forget all about Alexander Isak.
Why Newcastle could be facing instant punishment from UEFA back in UCL
It could be bad news for the Magpies…
ByTom Cunningham Sep 17, 2025
The 23-year-old is hardly short on confidence, either, and has already told Newcastle fans exactly what they can expect from him in the coming years.
Woltemade makes Ibrahimovic comparison
Revealing the players that he’s most similar to, Woltemade compared himself to the great Ibrahimovic. One inch taller than the former AC Milan star, the German’s comparison is a fair one to make, given how he still maintains his technical ability despite his height. Whether he eventually reaches the same level as the Swede is the big question.
Describing his style as “rare” for someone of his height, Newcastle can expect the unexpected from their new striker, who will be looking to follow up his debut goal with another against Barcelona this week.
Newcastle United’s summer transfer window is kicking into life, all right, with Eddie Howe determined to package a squad with enough quality to challenge across the Premier League and Champions League campaigns.
Last season was one of staggering success for the Magpies, who deservedly beat Liverpool at Wembley in March to lift the Carabao Cup, so ending 70 years adrift from that matchless trophy-winning feeling.
Newcastle United managerEddieHoweapplauds fans after the match
On the last day of the top-flight term, the Toon also secured their place in next year’s elite European tournament after finishing fifth in the league.
However, Newcastle’s 2024 summer window still lingers in the minds of all affiliated. It’s something of a miracle that Howe led his troops to glory in spite of the market setbacks.
The new campaign is a little over a month away, and United are planning to make a series of signings despite their slow start to the window.
That slow start has started to gather some pace, in fairness, but more is needed if Howe’s to piece together Newcastle’s dream squad for the 2025/26 season.
The goalkeepers James Trafford becomes the new No. 1
Newcastle have maintained a vested interest in Burnley shot-stopper James Trafford for a while now, and though Howe has been bruised by a number of setbacks in the market, this one looks like it will glide through to the finish line in a potential £30m deal.
Hailed as a “world-class keeper” by Clarets boss Scott Parker, the Englishman will jockey for a regular starting berth with Nick Pope, who has been a staple of the Howe era but missed ten Premier League matches last year due to injury.
Newcastle, for sure, aren’t strapped for options between the sticks. Martin Dubravka, Odysseas Vlachodimos, John Ruddy and Mark Gillespie all form a bloated chunk of the St. James’ Park first-team squad.
Profit and Sustainability technicalities have played heavily into the unique situation, but there’s no question that Trafford would sit atop the pile if signed this summer.
Full list of goalkeepers: James Trafford, Nick Pope, Martin Dubravka, Odysseas Vlachodimos, John Ruddy, Mark Gillespie
The defence Howe finally lands a new centre-back
Amid the long list of rejections this summer is likely to be Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, who was the subject of four failed bids from the Tynesiders in 2024 and has entered Newcastle’s sights once more this year.
But Liverpool appear to hold the lead in the race, and Newcastle have thus swivelled their attention to Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini, who, aged 22, is valued in excess of £50m.
Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini
The dynamic defender will complete a backline already replete with depth and quality. A fully-fit Sven Botman could provide the right-footer with a formidable partner, while Fabian Schar and Dan Burn offer high-level competition that will be vital across a multi-front campaign.
And Howe’s diligence and planning over the past few years has also limited the attention required on the flanks. Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall make for one of the most exciting young partnerships in the game, while Matt Targett and Kieran Trippier bring leadership to the fold.
Full list of centre-backs: Fabian Schar, Giorgio Scalvini, Jamal Lascelles, Sven Botman, Dan Burn
Full list of right-backs: Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth
Full list of left-backs: Lewis Hall, Matt Targett
The midfield Magpie midfielders remain the essence of Howe's system
Newcastle’s defence is in pretty good nick, but not so much as the midfield, which has been pieced together masterfully over the past few years. When Sandro Tonali gelled with Bruno Guimaraes after last winter’s blip, United reached new levels, establishing the form that would lead to silver-tinted glory.
Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy has certainly sung their praises, saying of the midfield: “One of the best in the league. Probably just behind Liverpool’s or maybe even on par with Liverpool’s. They’ve got a blend of everything and incredible players. I think they’ve got some of the best players in the world in that position.”
Tonali’s redefinition as a number six promoted the ball-playing focus of Howe’s game and allowed Guimaraes to operate in a more advanced, fluid role. Joelinton’s undying energy was magnified but Sean Longstaff, who has been linked with a summer sale could exit to please PSR. Leeds United have already tabled an offer.
In his stead, Newcastle have been named suitors for Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher, with the England international valued at £50m. His completeness and athleticism would be the perfect counterpoint to a midfield already rich with contrasting quality.
Newcastle would likely look to whittle down Atletico’s asking price, but it’s an exciting time for the Toon, who already are so strong in the centre, with Joe Willock and the young Lewis Miley looking to play their part too.
Full list of central midfielders: Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, Conor Gallagher, Joe Willock, Lewis Miley
The forwards Sweeping changes built around Alexander Isak
Alexander Isak remains Newcastle’s talisman, and PIF’s £200m price tag for the Sweden star should keep him at St. James’ Park for at least one more year.
He does need competition though, since Callum Wilson has packed up and left at the end of his contract. There have been a few blows in that regard so far, but Brentford’s Yoane Wissa has recently been lined up. The sticking point, of course, is that the Bees want £50m.
And despite signing Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest in a £55m deal, more is needed, to be sure. Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes hold down the fort pretty well on the left flank, but Newcastle are still interested in signing another name to enrich the ranks.
And that would be Manchester City’s Jack Grealish, who is set to leave the Etihad Stadium this summer. His £40m price tag might put the Magpies off, for this would take their spending over £200m after having bagged Elanga already.
Instead, a loan move looks like it could be the order of the day, one which would provide creative relief and allow a deal for someone like Wissa to be pursued too.
Centre-forward
86
34
8
Left winger
28
6
4
Right winger
7
4
0
Attacking midfield
3
1
0
The recent rumours surrounding Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike make for compelling reading, but it’s just hard to envisage a world where Newcastle win the race for the £85m-rated centre-forward while keeping Isak on the books too.
And Isak is staying. Thus, a more pragmatic, but still impressive, deal for a Premier League-proven and positionally dynamic player in Wissa could prove the order of the day for Newcastle as they look to polish off this remarkable squad of Magpies.
Full list of right wingers: Anthony Elanga, Jacob Murphy
Full list of left wingers: Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, Jack Grealish
Full list of strikers: Alexander Isak, Yoane Wissa, William Osula
Elanga's new Gibbs-White: Newcastle leading race for £40m "magician"
Newcastle are hoping to make more signings after landing Anthony Elanga.
Everton manager David Moyes finally completed a deal to bring Thierno Barry to the club from Villarreal.
A fee of £27m was spent to sign the Frenchman, but given his eye for goal in La Liga last term, it could turn into a bargain.
Next up for Moyes is adding another midfielder or two to his squad in the coming weeks. John McGinn has been heavily linked with a move to Merseyside.
He isn’t the only midfield option that Everton have been linked with, however, as Moyes also has his eyes on two former Premier League stars.
Everton’s search for a midfielder
According to Paul Joyce of The Times, Everton are showing interest in bringing Douglas Luiz back to England this summer.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
He has been discussed internally at Everton, alongside McGinn, while Moyes could be set to target an ambitious move for Joao Palhinha – with the Portuguese also named as one of those under consideration.
The Bayern Munich midfielder hasn’t settled in Bavaria, which could open the door for Moyes to make a swoop this summer.
Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha.
This experience abroad will have enhanced Palhinha’s skills, no doubt about that. The question is, could he be a better signing than McGinn for the Toffees?
Why Everton must sign Joao Palhinha
McGinn would be a fine signing, for that there is no doubt. Across 203 Premier League appearances, the Scot has scored 17 goals and grabbed 25 assists for Villa.
He will turn 31 in October, however, and while McGinn certainly has a few years left at the very top of the game, Moyes would be best to make a move for Palhinha, who offers more from a defensive point of view.
The Toffees conceded 53 goals last season across 42 matches. Not the worst return, but there is room for improvement.
When compared to his positional peers during his final Premier League campaign for Fulham in 2023/24, Palhinha ranked in the top 1% for tackles (5.07) per 90, while also ranking in the top 8% for interceptions (1.53) and in the top 10% for blocks (1.9) that season.
He may have only started six Bundesliga games for Bayern last term, but the Portuguese midfielder still won 58% of his total duels contested, while losing possession just 3.4 times per match.
Accurate passes
33.2
Tackles
4.6
Interceptions
1.4
Total duels won
7.6
Possession lost
9.1
Balls recovered
5.9
Hailed by journalist Dom Smith as “world-class” in November 2023, it was always going to be difficult for Fulham to keep one of their star men.
After just a single season in Germany, it appears as though Palhinha could be available this summer.
Bayern Munich's Joao Palhinha in action against Bayer Leverksen.
McGinn would offer plenty in the final third, but with Barry arriving, plus at least another couple more attacking players, Moyes must add some solidity to the midfield, especially after losing Abdoulaye Doucoure.
As such, signing a player such as Palhinha could turn into a stroke of genius by the manager given his previous success in the English top flight.
The dream squad Everton can build: £88m quintet & "beast" sign after Barry
A look at how Everton’s dream squad could shape up next season
1 ByJoe Nuttall Jul 10, 2025
Much will depend on the fee, but if it is within the club’s price range, Palhinha could be a fantastic signing, turning out to be even better than McGinn.
Moyes' own Palmer: Everton enter race for "special" £35m McAtee alternative
Everton are making sweeping changes in the summer transfer market.
Manchester United have been desperately hunting for a new striker throughout this summer transfer window, understandably so, too, given their lack of clinical edge.
Ruben Amorim’s side registered just 44 goals in their 38 Premier League outings this season, with only four sides scoring fewer – three of which were relegated to the Championship.
Their inability to find the back of the net on a consistent basis undoubtedly contributed to their lowly league standing, with no player in the squad managing to hit double figures for goals.
Rasmus Hojlund, who was the Red Devils’ main talisman, only netted four goals, highlighting the need for reinforcements in such a department this window.
Countless players have already been touted with summer moves to Old Trafford, but it remains to be seen which talisman the hierarchy will go after for the manager.
The latest on United’s hunt for a new striker this summer
Viktor Gyokeres is a player who appeared out of reach this window, but it appears United have been handed a lifeline after it was confirmed he would be open to a reunion with Amorim in 2025/26.
He’s not the only talent on their radar, with Juventus star Dušan Vlahović also considered as an option, potentially leading to a swap deal with Jadon Sancho moving to Italy as a result.
However, the aforementioned duo aren’t the only ones being considered, as work is being done over a potential deal to land RB Leipzig talisman Benjamin Sesko, according to TBR Football.
They claim that internal talks have been held behind the scenes at Old Trafford in recent weeks, with the Slovenian popping up as an option after netting 21 goals in 45 appearances this year.
It also states that the staff behind the scenes have been extensively monitoring the 22-year-old in recent times, but confirmed that no deal is yet at an advanced stage.
Why United’s latest target would become world class alongside Bruno
Bruno Fernandes will go down as one of United’s best ever additions, thriving beyond all imagination after his £47m move from Sporting CP back in January 2020.
The Portuguese international rapidly made himself a fan favourite, offering a creative and clinical threat that the side had often been lacking before his arrival.
However, he’s sustained such levels, registering over 20 combined goals and assists in each of his seasons in Manchester, often being the shining light in tricky periods – none more so than this campaign
The 30-year-old accumulated a total of 37 combined goals and assists, with it unimaginable to think where the side would be without his contributions in 2024/25.
He undoubtedly has the creative nature, but has been lacking that lethal striker ahead of him, which could further bolster his tallies should the hierarchy land one in the coming months.
RB Leipzig's BenjaminSeskocelebrates their second goal scored by Lukas Klostermann
Sesko could prove to be the beneficiary should he move to Old Trafford, having the chance to thrive alongside Bruno, who managed to create 2.7 chances per 90 this season.
He also registered a pass accuracy of 82%, which aided him, allowing him to notch 18 assists, something which the Slovenian could take his game to the next level with.
The Leipzig star, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by talent scout Antonio Mango, registered 1.2 shots on target per 90 at an accuracy rate of 44% – handing Amorim’s side the talisman they’ve needed.
The youngster has also completed 52% of the take-ons he’s attempted, whilst coming out on top in 59% of aerial battles, with his all-round nature certainly handing the side a new dimension.
Games played
33
Goals & assists
18
Shots on target per 90
1.2
Shot on target accuracy
44%
Take-ons completed
52%
Aerials won
59%
Progressive carries
1.8
He’s also demonstrated his desire to run in behind and play off the shoulder of the defender, a skillset that is extremely rare in today’s game, making himself a real nuisance to the opposition backline.
Such a deal would be a phenomenal one for the Red Devils, allowing them to take a huge step under the guidance of Amorim throughout 2025/26.
RB Leipzig's BenjaminSeskobefore taking a penalty
If he can strike up a partnership with Fernandes next season, it would massively help the Red Devils catapult up the table, making the club a force to be reckoned with once again.
He's better than Gyokeres: Wilcox plots Man Utd move for £150m talisman
Manchester United have joined a long list of suitors in the race to sign a new striker.
Thomas Frank has a huge task on his hands next season if he is to transform the situation at Tottenham Hotspur after the club’s form in England’s top flight.
The Lilywhites finished the season in 17th place in the Premier League last time around, losing 22 times in the process – leading to Ange Postecoglou’s subsequent dismissal in North London.
However, the side’s Europa League triumph against Manchester United in Bilbao is evidence of the levels they can reach, needing to use such an achievement as a springboard into 2025/26.
Frank will need to be backed by the hierarchy in his quest, needing to make key changes to his squad he desires to push them back towards a top five finish in the near future.
The Dane has showcased at Brentford he’s able to thrive in the Premier League, hoping to do so again across the capital as he wastes no time in making moves in the market.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new attackers this summer
Wingers have been high up on their list in recent weeks, with Spurs strongly linked with a move to land Bryan Mbeumo, securing a return between the player and the manager.
However, he looks set to make a move to Manchester United this window, leading to West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus also emerging as a potential option.
Whilst the aforementioned duo have been on their radar, progress appears to have been made on a deal to land Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, according to one Spanish outlet.
Their report claims that Frank’s side are set to make a £65m bid to land the 25-year-old this window after 11 goals and five assists in the league this campaign.
It also confirms that the Cherries aren’t prepared to lose another one of their star players, but the Lilywhites are confident they can secure a move for his signature this window.
Why Semenyo would be Frank’s next Solanke
Striker Dominic Solanke joined in a £65m deal from the same club last summer, with the English international seen as the heir to Harry Kane after his departure 12 months prior.
Tottenham's Dominic Solanke
The 27-year-old managed to score 16 times in his 45 appearances across all competitions, with five of his efforts coming in Europe and helping the side end their 17-year trophy wait.
Like many players in the current first team squad, he’s had his own injury issues this campaign, restricting him from having the dream first year in North London.
However, he’s still managed to showcase his talents within the final third, ending the year as the club’s second-highest goalscorer in the division for 2024/25.
Frank could be about to land his next version of Solanke this window, with Semenyo following in his footsteps and moving to Spurs to rekindle their impressive partnership.
AFC Bournemouth's AntoineSemenyolooks on
Whilst the fee touted appears to be an expensive one, the Ghanaian international has showcased his skillset this season, adding a new dimension to Frank’s forward line should he complete a move.
Semenyo, who’s been labelled “incredible” by journalist Owuraku Ampofo, registered 16 combined goals and assists, a figure that would’ve made him the joint-highest contributor in the current squad.
Games played
37
Goals & assists
16
Shots on target
1.2
Successful dribbles
1.9
Chances created
1.3
Touches in opposition box
5.9
Aerials won
1.9
His underlying stats are just as impressive, registering 1.2 shots on target per 90, along with 1.9 successful dribbles – highlighting the threat he poses in attacking areas.
The 25-year-old has also created 1.3 chances per 90, whilst also notching 5.9 touches in the opposition box per 90, having the tools to star alone or even provide players around him in North London.
If he can transfer his skillset over to the Lilywhites next season, it would be a superb deal at £65m, having the potential to improve further with further quality players around him in Frank’s side.
Such a transfer could provide the added cutting edge needed for success, handing the manager the best possible chance of impressing during his first year at the helm.
Big Johnson upgrade: Spurs open initial talks to sign £70m "monster"
Tottenham are hoping to sign a right-sided forward this summer.
It would be fair to say that this season was something of a disappointment for Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta’s side ended up ten points off Liverpool in the Premier League, failed to make a dent in the FA Cup, and, with better finishing, could have realistically been in a Champions League final.
However, while it’s easy to focus on the negative, there have been at least a few positives, such as the development and performances of Jurrien Timber, who seriously stepped up in the absence of Ben White.
The Dutchman is now unquestionably one of the manager’s best signings, and based on reports, it looks like he could soon have himself another younger version of the international.
Arsenal transfer news
Before getting to the player in question, it’s worth looking at some of the other young talents Arsenal have been linked with in recent weeks, such as Adam Wharton and Konstantinos Karetsas.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The former is reportedly available for close to £80m this summer, and while that is a lot of money to spend on someone who is just 21 years old, he’s more than proven his ability at Crystal Palace and played a key role in their FA Cup triumph this year.
Karetsas, on the other hand, is a little harder to justify at a whopping £38m, as while he’s seriously impressed in Belgium this season, he is still just 17 years old, and that sort of money would probably be better off being spent on someone who could play for the team next year.
With that said, while these two youngsters are incredibly talented, neither one can be described as anything like Timber, unlike Jorrel Hato.
Yes, according to a recent report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are one of several teams incredibly interested in the Ajax star.
The report has revealed that Arsenal, alongside the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Newcastle United, have already made contact to find out more information about a possible transfer.
However, on top of having to contend with some serious competition, Andrea Berta and Co would have to stump a fee of up to €50m to get their man, which is about £42m.
Ajax Amsterdam's JorrelHatocelebrates after the match
It could be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but it is one Arsenal should be fighting for, especially as he’d be the club’s next Timber.
Why Hato would be Arsenal's next timber
Now, it might sound like a bold claim to suggest that a teenager from outside the top five leagues could develop into a full-back who was impeccable against Real Madrid home and away in the Champions League.
Arsenal's JurrienTimbercelebrates after the match
Yet, that is exactly what we are suggesting, and there are a number of reasons why.
Firstly, the Eridivise might not be one of the best leagues in Europe, but it’s only just outside the top five, sitting in sixth place, and crucially, Timber made his way to North London from the Netherlands.
In fact, not only did the Gunners’ ace join Arteta’s title challengers from the same country, but he did so from Ajax, which is where Hato is currently plying his trade.
Furthermore, the pair are both Dutch and on top of coming up through the Ajax academy, they also share the ability to play in more than one position, depending on what the manager wants and needs.
Left-Back
68
3
6
Centre-Back
41
1
3
Left Midfield
1
0
0
Centre-Back
170
9
6
Right-Back
82
4
5
Left-Back
22
1
1
Defensive Midfield
2
1
0
For example, we all know that Timber is at his best at right-back, but he’s already played at centre-back and left-back since moving to England, just as the in-demand youngster has primarily played at left-back in his career but is more than comfortable at centre-back as well.
Finally, it’s not just us who see the parallels, as respected analyst Ben Mattinson has described the 19-year-old gem as “Timber 2.0.”
Ultimately, he might not be cheap, but Hato looks destined to be a monster of a defender, and for that reason, Arsenal should do what they can to bring him to the club, as he could be their new Timber.
Arsenal targeting £80m "nightmare" who'd be more exciting than Zubimendi
Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Martin Zubimendi.
Now that Rangers have a manager in place, their transfer window activity can begin in earnest.
Last week, Russell Martin was unveiled as the 20th permanent manager in Rangers’ 153-year history, but he faces a big task to guide the Gers through Champions League qualifying this summer and then, ultimately, aiming to topple their rivals at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
That will all be a tough task, but could Martin land his dream midfield signing early into his tenure in Glasgow?
Rangers' chasing midfield reinforcements
While recruitment as far as new players are concerned hasn’t been Kevin Thelwell’s first priority since heading to Rangers, attention can now finally turn to who could improve the squad at Ibrox.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Well, according to a report by Alan Nixon of the Scottish Sun, Martin would like Rangers to sign midfielder Flynn Downes this summer.
The 26-year-old played for Martin at Swansea and Southampton, initially on loan when the Saints gained promotion from the EFL Championship last year, before he made his move from West Ham to the South Coast permanent a year ago for a reported £18m fee.
Southampton's Flynn Downes in action with Brighton & Hove Albion's Joao Pedro
That sky-high price tag could prove to be a severe stumbling block, considering Rangers’ record signing of all time is the £12m paid to sign Tore André Flo in 2000, while the highest fee they’ve paid in the modern era is £7.5m for Ryan Kent in 2019.
Nevertheless, after Southampton were instantaneously relegated from the Premier League after just one season back in the top-flight, there could potentially be a fire-sale at St Mary’s, with Downes possibly amongst those sacrificed.
Most expensive SPFL signings (timeless) Rangers Celtic
So, could he be reunited with his former manager north of the border?
How Downes compares to Lundstram
Signing English players from down south is certainly not a new strategy for Rangers, with John Lundstram certainly one of the more successful of their imports of the modern era.
After failing to make a senior appearance for Everton, the midfielder, fair to say, was a bit of a journeyman, playing for Doncaster Rovers, Yeovil Town, Leyton Orient across two spells, Blackpool, Scunthorpe United and Oxford United.
He belatedly burst onto the scene at Sheffield United, making 62 Premier League appearances for the Blades, a key figure as Chris Wilder’s team finished ninth in 2019/20 as a newly-promoted club.
Nevertheless, it was only once he got to Glasgow that Lundstram truly found a home.
In total, the midfielder featured over 150 times for Rangers, scoring 11 goals, including the late winner against RB Leipzig that booked the club’s place in the Europa League Final, winning the Scottish Cup and League Cup, starting all three finals.
He ultimately departed for Trabzonspor on a Bosman last summer but, should Downes arrive, Rangers supporters would be hoping he could have a similar impact to that of his compatriot.
Host Dan Woffenden describes Downes as “class”, while Roshane Thomas of the Athletic labels him an excellent passer, also documenting how he ‘thrived under manager Russell Martin’ when the pair were together at Swansea.
Southampton'sFlynnDownesin action with Nottingham Forest's Morgan Gibbs-White
Meantime, Chris Beaumont of Total Football Analysis praises the midfielder’s ‘fantastic engine’ and ‘physical presence’, asserting that he is one of the ‘hottest midfield prospects’ in English football.
So, let’s assess his statistics in the EFL Championship from the 2023/24 campaign.
Minutes
2,550
163rd
Completed passes
2,019
29th
Pass completion %
93%
3rd
Short passes completed
1,152
12th
Touches
2,419
50th
It is worth mentioning that statistics from Downes’ season in the second-tier were used due to how generally hopeless Southampton were in the Premier League this season, thereby providing a data set that is uninformative.
Also worth noting that, according to Global Football Ranking, the Championship is the 11th strongest league in the world, compared to the Scottish Premiership down in 43rd, thereby offering a slightly more comparable level.
Thus, what the numbers do underline is that Downes is a high-quality passer, ranked third for pass completion percentage, while more than half of these passes were short, between five and 15 yards.
So, in Martin’s system that prioritises possession, he could be exactly the midfielder Rangers require, potentially having an equally enormous impact at Ibrox to that of Lundstram.
Martin could land dream 1st Rangers signing who's "very similar" to Raskin
Rangers could replace Raskin with a South American starler
Ask Arsenal fans what it is they need this summer, and the most common answer you’ll get is a striker.
No players hit double digits for Premier League goals in Mikel Arteta’s squad this season, whereas Arne Slot had three players manage the feat, with Mohamed Salah racking up an unreal 29.
Such an evident weakness in the squad has seen the club linked with a host of incredible strikers over the last few months, and while Alexander Isak is undoubtedly at the top of most supporters’ wishlists, his supposed £150m price tag now looks secure as ever following Newcastle United’s qualification for the Champions League on Sunday.
However, while the Swede may be out of reach, recent reports have linked the Gunners with another exciting centre-forward who has won comparisons to him, a centre-forward who’d be a significant Kai Havertz upgrade.
Arsenal's striker search
While it might not always feel like it, there are quite a few strikers who could be on the market this summer, and plenty of them have been touted for moves to Arsenal, such as Viktor Gyokeres and Joao Pedro.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The former has long been linked with the Gunners and could finally be available for close to £63m in the coming weeks, which might just be a steal considering he’s racked up a sublime haul of 54 goals and 13 assists in 52 games for Sporting CP this season.
On the other hand, Pedro might be a harder transfer to justify, as while his tally of ten goals and seven assists in 30 games is impressive, his supposed £100m price tag feels exorbitant.
Brighton & Hove Albion'sJoaoPedroin action with Manchester City's Ruben Dias and Abdukodir Khusanov
Fortunately, another striker has now been linked with the North Londoners, someone compared to the incredible Isak: Nick Woltemade.
According to a recent report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are one of a handful of clubs incredibly keen on the German forward.
The report claims that Arsenal and Serie A champions Napoli have already made contact with VfB regarding the talented goalscorer, while the likes of Atlético Madrid and West Ham United are currently keeping tabs on the situation.
On top of getting ahead of the competition, the North Londoners would have to stump up around €50m to secure the 23-year-old’s signature, which is about £42m.
VfB Stuttgart's Nick Woltemade in action with Bayern Munich's JoaoPalhinhaand Bayern Munich's Kim Min-jae
It might not be the big-name signing some fans want, but on top of the comparisons to Newcastle’s superstar striker, Woltemade would be an upgrade on Havertz.
How Woltemade compares to Isak & Havertz
Before we take a look at how Woltemade stacks up against Havertz, the man he could replace at Arsenal, it’s worth examining this comparison to Isak and where it has come from.
Newcastle United's AlexanderIsakcelebrates scoring their first goal
In this instance, it stems from FBref, which looks at players in similar positions in Europe’s top five leagues, the Champions League and Europa League, before creating a list of the ten most comparable players.
By doing this, it has been concluded that the Swedish international is the second most similar forward to the German across the last 365 days.
Non-Penalty Expected G+As
0.70
0.70
Progressive Passes
2.89
2.88
Shots on Target
1.28
1.34
Switches
0.11
0.10
Goal-Creating Actions
0.55
0.46
Successful Take-Ons %
43.7%
46.2%
The best way to see how this is worked out is by taking a look at the underlying metrics in which the pair rank closely, including but not limited to non-penalty expected goals plus assists, shots on target, switches, progressive passes, goal-taking actions and more, all per 90.
With his similarities to the Toon star cleared up, how does he stack up against the Gunners’ number 29?
Well, when it comes to their raw output, which is ultimately what matters most for a striker, it is the “exceptional” Stuttgart star, as dubbed by U23 scout Antonio Mango, who comes out on top.
For example, in 33 appearances, totalling 2039 minutes this term, the Bremen-born poacher scored 17 goals and provided three assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.65 games, or every 101.95 minutes.
In contrast, the former Chelsea ace has scored 15 goals and provided five assists in 36 appearances, totalling 2809 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.8 games, or every 140.45 minutes.
Ultimately, Havertz could still be an incredibly useful player next season, but as things stand, Woltemade looks to the superior striker, and therefore, Arsenal should do what they can to sign him this summer.
Arteta has struck gold on Arsenal star who's worth millions more than Wirtz
Arsenal will need to be wary of Florian Wirtz next season.
As Manchester City’s summer clear-out commences, Diego Simeone and Atletico Madrid could reportedly come calling in pursuit of one particular player in the coming months.
Man City set for summer clear-out
It’s been a season to forget for Manchester City, who will be desperate to secure Champions League qualification this Sunday and finally put the current campaign behind them. For the first time in Pep Guardiola’s time at The Etihad, the Citizens have it all to do in the summer transfer window.
No longer are they the dominant champions capable of dispatching 19 other Premier League sides with ease. That’s an era which is ruthlessly and rapidly coming to an end. Instead, the Manchester club need to write a new chapter with new heroes and fresh characters, starting with a number of emotional farewells to several players who will be deemed undeniable legends.
Man City preparing to step up deal to sign £50m star they want done by June
He could be the first signing of their midfield rebuild.
ByTom Cunningham May 24, 2025
Already, of course, Kevin De Bruyne has said his goodbyes. The Belgian – one of the best to ever play for Manchester City – bid an emotional farewell to The Etihad last week to begin a summer of departures for the Citizens.
The midfielder told the fans after waving goodbye: “I wanted to play with creativity, I wanted to play with passion. I wanted to enjoy football and I hope everyone enjoyed it.
“Everybody has pushed me so hard inside and outside the club to be the best version of myself and these guys in front of me have made me better than I was before. It’s an honour to play with these guys. I’ve made so many friends for life.”
In the coming months, it will be a question as to who joins De Bruyne out the exit door at Manchester City. There are certainly a few candidates who are coming to the end of their peaks, whilst another name has also reportedly been targeted by Atletico Madrid.
Atletico Madrid now targeting Grealish
According to reports in Spain, Simeone and Atletico Madrid are now targeting a summer move to sign Jack Grealish, who could leave Manchester City this summer in a bid to gain a starting place elsewhere. The England international has often been forced to watch on from the bench this season and desperately needs a fresh start.
Of course, Grealish wouldn’t be the first English player to complete a move to the Spanish club either. Just last summer, Conor Gallagher decided to leave Chelsea in favour of the Metropolitano and has thrived ever since. Now, a year on, it could be Grealish’s turn to join Simeone in La Liga.
Despite a difficult spell at The Etihad, the £300,000-a-week midfielder has still found himself at the centre of praise from Guardiola, who told reporters following Grealish’s performance against Leyton Orient in the FA Cup earlier this season: “I’m happy for him. I know it’s not easy when you don’t play regularly. In the last game in the FA Cup he played very good, much better than today.”
Whether that praise is enough to keep hold of Grealish seems unlikely at this stage, but only time will tell if Atletico Madrid come calling this summer.