Newcastle United are believed to be eyeing an impressive double swoop alongside their imminent move for Nottingham Forest winger Anthony Elanga this summer.
Newcastle closing in on Elanga signing
The Magpies continue to work hard on new signings, from James Trafford to Marc Guehi, but it looks as though the addition of Elanga from Forest is closer than ever to happening.
According to a new claim from Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, Newcastle have agreed a £55m for the signing of the Swede, with a medical expected to take place imminently.
Elanga has the potential to be such an eye-catching signing for Eddie Howe, with his pace helping make them a huge threat on the counter-attack, as highlighted last season when he scored a stunning solo effort against former club Manchester United.
It’s now a case of ensuring that the Forest man becomes a Newcastle player and that there are no late obstacles to overcome, before turning their attention to further signings, with a striker believed to be a major focus for PIF this summer.
Newcastle eyeing double defensive swoop
According to L’Equipe [via Sport Witness], Newcastle remain keen on signing Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perri, despite their strong interest in Trafford. He is considered a good alternative to the Englishman and may well head to the Premier League either way this summer, with Leeds United also in the mix.
Meanwhile, Give Me Sport claim that the Magpies are continuing to eye a summer move for Guehi from Crystal Palace, in a potential £70m deal. They are described as being “hopeful of winning the race” to sign the England international once they wrap up Elanga.
Crystal Palace's MarcGuehi
Perri stands out as an excellent alternative to Trafford, should Newcastle fail to sign the Burnley man, with Paulo Fonseca even calling him the “best in the world” in his position. At 27, the Brazilian is also a more proven player at the top level than Trafford, although at this point, it would still be a surprise if the Clarets goalkeeper wasn’t the man to come in this summer.
Meanwhile, Guehi arguably stands out as the strongest possible choice to come in and bolster Newcastle’s back-line, having now shown that he can excel for both club and country, standing out as England’s best defender at Euro 2024 last summer.
Now feels like the right time for him to enjoy a new challenge in his career, and he possesses the leadership, quality on the ball and reading of play to be a mainstay of the Magpies’ defence for many years.
He will love Elanga: Newcastle in advanced talks to sign a "top striker"
Eddie Howe could be close to signing a new striker for Newcastle.
2 ByRoss Kilvington
Granted, the £70m price tag is bloated, as is often the case with homegrown players, but he could prove to be worth every penny if he shines at the heart of the defence for the next decade.
Fabrizio Romano has shared an update on Arsenal and sporting director Andrea Berta’s transfer plans, after manager Mikel Arteta was handed the major boost of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres’ imminent arrival.
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Gyokeres, according to The Independent, will fly out to Singapore for his medical as he looks to play some part in their pre-season tour of Asia, with Arsenal finally reaching a full breakthrough to sign the 27-year-old earlier this week.
Arsenal estimated transfer spending under Arteta (via Sky Sports)
Money on new signings
19/20 – winter
£0
20/21 – summer
£81.5m
20/21 – winter
£900k
21/22 – summer
£156.8m
21/22 – winter
£1.8m
22/23 – summer
£121.5m
22/23 – winter
£59m
23/24 – summer
£208m
23/24 – winter
£0
24/25 – summer
£101.5m
24/25 – winter
£0
25/26 – summer
£140m
Gyokeres is poised to join Arsenal in a deal worth £64 million, including add-ons, with a full verbal agreement now struck between all parties as Arteta prepares to welcome the prolific number nine to his squad.
Given Arsenal’s struggles to break teams down last season, Gyokeres has the potential to be a title-winning signing, and people who’ve worked with the Sweden international simply cannot find enough superlatives to describe him.
“He really was incredible,” said Adi Viveash, who coached and mentored Gyokeres at Coventry City, to Sky Sports.
Sporting CP's ViktorGyokerescelebrates scoring their third goal to complete his hat-trick
“His power, taking the ball and running with it, bursting through gaps, linking the play, being very good in both boxes set-piece-wise – which wasn’t a strength of his, but he became certainly very good at defensive set-pieces with me through front post defending.”
“If you give Vik half a pitch in behind with a high line and you get the line wrong, you’re never going to catch him. He’s going to keep making the run in behind so you’re wearing down opposition.”
After Gyokeres, who’ll also be joined by defender Cristhian Mosquera in Singapore, the plan for Arsenal is to prioritise a central attacking midfielder (Ben Jacobs).
Arsenal are seriously interested in Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze, as they have been for weeks, but more and more noise is surrounding an alternative to the England international in RB Leipzig sensation Xavi Simons.
Arsenal contact Xavi Simons camp amid Barcelona meeting
According to Romano, Arsenal are guaranteed to have made contact with Simons’ camp, with Chelsea also seriously contending for the 22-year-old’s signature as they plan transfer talks with Leipzig this week.
La Liga champions Barcelona, led by their sporting director Deco, also held a meeting with the Netherlands forward’s representatives recently, but a move to the Camp Nou is seen as unlikely for this window and more one for the future.
Right now, it appears Chelsea are the current favourites for Simons. However, Arsenal remain “attentive” to his situation and a north London switch hasn’t been entirely ruled out yet, meaning he’s still one to watch.
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Leipzig only signed the player from PSG permanently in January for an initial £43 million, with Simons now preparing to leave the Bundesliga side after spending some significant time there on loan previously.
Called a “difference maker” by ex-Leipzig boss Marco Rose, Simons has racked up an impressive tally of 21 goals and 23 assists during his time in Germany, but the Premier League could now beckon for him.
Interestingly, journalist Buchi Laba is convinced that Simons would be a “better” Arsenal signing than Eze.
Manchester United have now held talks over a deal for an “enormous” Bayern Munich target, who they have scouted for quite some time, according to a report.
Man Utd set to strengthen in multiple areas
After finishing 15th in the Premier League table last season, it is little wonder that Ruben Amorim is looking to strengthen all over the pitch, with targets being identified in a number of different positions over the past few days.
Player
Current club
Position
Javi Guerra
Valencia
CM
Benjamin Sesko
RB Leipzig
ST
Emiliano Martinez
Aston Villa
GK
Lucas Beraldo
PSG
CB
John Victor
Botafogo
GK
It may be particularly important for Amorim to bring in a new goalkeeper this summer, given that Andre Onana has been subjected to widespread criticism, although there are doubts over whether Martinez would be a suitable replacement.
With the likes of Victor and fellow target Senne Lammens yet to prove themselves at the top level, it could be even more important to have a strong backline next season too, and there has now been a development in Man United’s pursuit of SK Brann defender Eivind Helland.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, United have now held talks over a deal for Helland, who they have scouted for quite some time, but there could be competition for his signature, with Bayern Munich also named as potential suitors.
Brann could be tempted to accept a bid of £8m, meaning a deal would not break the bank, with the Red Devils viewing the 20-year-old as a cost-effective addition to the squad.
"Enormous" Helland has what it takes to succeed in England
The youngster is yet to prove himself outside Norway, so it may be difficult to immediately come in and compete for a starting spot with the likes of Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez, but the Brann starlet is showing some promising signs.
Data scout Bastian Schmitz has suggested the towering defender has great potential, saying: “He’s a massive talent.
“Helland has an enormous physique, standing tall at 6ft4 and with a broad frame, which means he could already compete physically in the Premier League. Other strengths include his speed and ability to open the game up with his passing.”
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Schmitz also notes that the United target is a versatile player, capable of playing in three positions, namely centre-back, right-back and defensive midfield.
Amorim's next Gyokeres: Man Utd open talks to sign "phenomenal" £67m CF
Manchester United appear to have moved on to other targets after missing out on Viktor Gyokeres.
ByEthan Lamb
As such, Helland could be an exciting long-term addition to the squad, and the versatile defender’s potential availability for around £8m makes him a low-risk signing.
Darwin Nunez continues to trundle toward the exit door at Liverpool, leaving behind him a pre-season of preparation in red that has been rich with goals.
But the Uruguayan started only once in the Premier League after Boxing Day last season and scored just seven goals across 47 matches in all competitions. Given that he scored a brace against Brentford, the 25-year-old blanked 41 times under Arne Slot’s wing last year.
So then, Liverpool will need to sign a new striker, even having purchased Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt for an initial £69m fee.
Given that Luis Diaz was sold to Bayern Munich for £65.5m last month, you might think a new electric-paced left winger would be at the top of sporting director Richard Hughes’ agenda.
But Rio Ngumoha may well have changed that narrative.
Liverpool's latest prodigy
A star is born. Ngumoha cannot be denied now: this is an up-and-coming player with the potential to go right to the top.
Liverpool's Rio Ngumoha
But let’s park our excitement for a moment; Ngumoha is only 16 after all, and must be dripped into life on the professional circuit, not poured right in and exhausted before he has had the chance to develop his remarkable technical and athletic faculties.
Still, his goal-and-assist performance against Athletic Bilbao on Monday afternoon was quite the Anfield debut. Friendly though it was, the attacking midfielder played with such gusto and slickness on the ball, striding forward and unleashing a confident looping strike from outside the area to turn the limelight onto him.
Is it any wonder he has been described as a “special” talent by journalist Bence Bocsak, who said the teenager “has completed more dribbles (14) than any other #LFC player in pre-season.”
Slot will be keen to placate the mounting noise around his name, but you can’t help but think that Liverpool have spawned a custom-built Diaz replacement, one who might play quite the important role in the years to come.
Liverpool youngster Rio Ngumoha
Nguomha’s ball-carrying ability and capacity for goal contributions of all shapes and sizes suggest he could form a dangerous partnership with Ekitike over the coming years, but the same stands for another centre-forward Liverpool are interested in signing this summer.
Liverpool lining up another striker
No, it’s not Alexander Isak we’re on about here. The Newcastle United number nine is Liverpool’s dream target, but the Magpies are playing hardball and might not even find a fitting replacement.
Thus, Caught Offside have revealed that Liverpool have entered the race for Paris Saint-Germain forward Goncalo Ramos, who has fallen out of favour in Luis Enrique’s system.
PSG would hope to recoup something in the ballpark of €65m (£56m) for the Portugal international, who, aged 24, hopes to take the next step in his career and become a focal point for his side.
Though Liverpool want to sign Isak above all others, Ramos would hardly be a poor fallback, and he’s also wanted by Aston Villa, Manchester United, Juventus and Napoli.
What Goncalo Ramos would bring to Liverpool
Ramos cut his teeth in his homeland with Benfica before signing for PSG in an €80m (£70m) deal in 2023, coming off the back of a breakout World Cup campaign in Qatar 2022.
PSG forward Goncalo Ramos
Though the Iberian forward has only scored 33 goals across 86 matches for the French giants, assisting eight goals besides, he’s rarely featured as the star man, starting ten Ligue 1 fixtures in 2024/25. Still, he scored ten times.
And the underlying data is in his favour too. As per FBref, Ramos ranked among the top 4% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues last season for goals scored, the top 11% for assists, the top 9% for pass completion and the top 2% for touches in the attacking box per 90.
The steady rate of prolific performances across Ramos’ senior career thus far suggests that Slot could shape into one of the world’s foremost forwards, proving the perfect long-term dance partner for an up-and-coming talent like Ngumoha.
Goncalo Ramos – Career Stats so Far (all comps)
Season
Apps
Goals
Assists
24/25 – PSG
46
19
6
23/24 – PSG
40
14
2
22/23 – Benfica
47
27
8
21/22 – Benfica
46
8
4
20/21 – Benfica
12
4
–
19/20 – Benfica
1
2
–
Data via Transfermarkt
Hailed as an “outrageous” player by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Ramos’ wide range of offensive instruments bespeaks his suitability in Slot’s system at Liverpool. He’s fast, powerful and nimble, suggesting he could operate across a variety of roles for a coach who has displayed a preference for forwards who are willing to be fluid in their roles.
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But if Ngumoha’s fast-developing potential has anything to say, it’s unlikely that Slot would be seeking to convert the right-footer into a left-sided forward, whose pace would be used to swerve inside, ready to strike on goal.
Furthermore, Ekitike has indeed already signed on and will bring to the Premier League a more refined and expansive game as a frontman. In any case, the Frenchman is a mean and still-improving goalscorer himself, thus apt to dovetail right into the Slot machine.
But Ramos would bring the icing on the cake, ensuring Liverpool have enough firepower to compete across multiple fronts this season, even if the concerted effort to sign Isak falls flat.
Paris Saint-Germain's Goncalo Ramos.
FBref record that both Isak and Ekitike are statistically comparable players to the PSG star, so he’s certainly got the right skill set.
And with Ngumoha already making waves within the Liverpool first team, there’s no reason why these two stars couldn’t strike up a mesmerising partnership in the years to come.
Ekitike repeat: Liverpool prepare £50m offer for "monster"; it's not Isak
Liverpool are still hoping to complete several signings before the end of the transfer window.
Fair to say, it’s been a pretty miserable summer for Newcastle United supporters so far.
Let’s start with the positives; they have signed Anthony Elanga and Aaron Ramsdale, with the latter saving a penalty during Friday night’s pre-season friendly against Espanyol at St James’ Park.
One man who remains conspicuous by his absence is, of course, Alexander Isak, yet to feature at all during pre-season, as he pushes for a move to Liverpool.
Thus, as Eddie Howe’s team brace themselves for life without the superstar Swede, have they identified their ideal replacement?
Newcastle's search for a new striker
As has been widely reported by David Ornstein of The Athletic and many others, Newcastle found themselves in a head-to-head battle with Manchester United for striker Benjamin Šeško, with the Slovenian choosing to go to Old Trafford instead.
He is simply the latest in a long line of players Newcastle have been rather publicly and ignominiously turned down by during this window, including strikers Hugo Ekitiké, Liam Delap and João Pedro, to name but a few, so have they turned their attention to a new target?
Benjamin Sesko 2024-25 stats (timeless)
Well, according to Graeme Bailey of TBR Football, Newcastle United have been offered the chance to sign Samu Aghehowa from Porto.
Adam Crafton and Ornstein of The Athletic add that the Magpies are ‘considering’ making a move for the 21-year-old, who is reportedly valued at around £65m by the 30-time Portuguese champions.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
So, could the Spaniard soon swap the Estádio do Dragão for Tyneside?
What Samu Aghehowa would bring to Newcastle
First and foremost, to avoid confusion, worth stating up front that, up until November last year, he was known as Omorodion, but requested to go by Aghehowa henceforth, his maternal surname, in honour of his mother.
On the pitch too, he’s had an interesting start to his burgeoning career.
Samu Omorodion for Alaves
On the opening day of the 2023/24 La Liga season, then a teenager, he marked his senior debut with a goal for Granada against Atlético Madrid during a 3-1 defeat at the Metropolitano.
Well, los Colchoneros were so impressed that they signed the unknown youngster just a few days later, paying his €6m (around £5.1m) buyout clause, although he would never actually play for Atleti.
He was immediately loaned out to Deportivo Alavés, scoring eight La Liga goals for los Blanquiazules, including netting home and away against Barcelona, which certainly caught the attention of clubs around Europe.
Sesko vs Hojlund
On the back of this, Chelsea agreed to pay £34m to secure his signature last summer, but the deal collapsed at the 11th hour due to ‘major problems… finalising’ the striker’s contract, supposedly relating to image rights.
Instead, he joined Porto for a reported fee of £12.7m, where he has taken his game to a new level.
In the last 12 months, the 21-year-old has become a full Spain international, debuting against Switzerland in Tenerife last November, before also coming off the bench during June’s Nations League semi-final victory over France.
Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout was certainly impressed by his performances in Portugal, labelling Aghehowa a “monster”, praising his “pace, physicality and aerial ability”.
FC Porto's SamuOmorodioncelebrates scoring their first goal
Meantime, Elias Burke and Gillian Kasirye of the Athletic document how he is the ‘prototype’ of a modern-day centre-forward, given that the Spaniard is ‘tall, quick, and physically imposing’, noting that he also possesses ‘exceptional pace’ and ‘excellent off-ball positioning’ in the penalty area.
Nevertheless, the question still remains; would he be a better signing than Šeško? Let’s compare the duo to find out.
Samu Aghehowa vs Benjamin Šeško 2024/25 comparison
Statistics
Aghehowa
Šeško
Appearances
45
45
Minutes
3,400
3,258
Goals
27
21
Assists
3
6
Goals – xG
+6.6
+2.8
Shots on target %
41.2%
47.5%
Shots per 90
2.83
2.92
Big chances missed
25
18
Big chances created
7
7
Shot-creating actions
64
58
% of touches in penalty area
20.4%
10.4%
Average SofaScore rating
6.99
6.92
Statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt, FBref.com and SofaScore
As the table documents, in a near-identical number of minutes, the pair’s statistics are remarkably similar across the board.
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The Spaniard scored more goals and overperformed his expected goals by an impressive amount, while the fact he takes over 20% of his touches inside the opposition’s penalty area underlines his poachers’ instincts.
Worth noting that Aghehowa was playing at a slightly lower level; according to Global Football Rankings, the Primeira Liga is the seventh-strongest league in the world, four places below the Bundesliga.
Also, Porto were, and still are, stuck in the Europa League, while RB Leipzig competed in last season’s Champions League, albeit the Spaniard did score six times in nine European appearances, also netting twice during the Club World Cup back in June.
RB Leipzig's BenjaminSesko
Thus, with Šeško snubbing a possible move to Tyneside, Aghehowa appears to be the next-best option on the market, so it would be smart for Newcastle to turn their attention to the Spain international.
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After taking the reins at Tottenham Hotspur, new boss Thomas Frank has already demonstrated his ability to switch his tactics based upon the opposition from game to game.
He’s already operated with a back five and a back four in various games, undoubtedly evaluating the options at his disposal for his debut campaign at the helm in North London.
However, a glaring issue has arisen in the side, with a lack of depth in the final third potentially transforming into a huge problem should no solution be found before the end of the window.
If the Dane is to be successful in the Premier League, he will need various talents at his disposal to call upon, but at present, he’s severely lacking in options in attacking areas.
After the departure of Heung-min Son and injury to James Maddison, the number ten and left-wing positions are massively depleted – with owner Daniel Levy needing to rectify such issues as soon as possible.
Spurs’ attempts to land an Eze alternative this summer
Eberechi Eze appeared to be the player to fill such roles within the Spurs side, after the hierarchy agreed a deal with Crystal Palace for the Englishman’s signature.
The player himself wanted to join Frank’s side, but despite the progress made on a deal to land the 27-year-old – he will not be making a move to join the Lilywhites this summer.
He’s since accepted an offer to join North London rivals Arsenal, subsequently ending Levy’s pursuit of the attacking midfielder – which has seen the club move onto different targets.
Some of the options have previously been on their radar at previous points of the summer window, with Manchester City star Savinho just one name remerging in their sights.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed in recent days that Frank’s side will return to negotiations before the end of the window, after previously failing to strike an agreement with Pep Guardiola’s men.
He also claimed that an offer of €70m (£60m) was being prepared for the Brazilian forward, who managed to notch 14 combined goals and assists in the 2024/25 campaign.
Why Spurs’ latest target would be Frank’s answer to Saka
Bukayo Saka is a player who’s constantly tormented countless backlines in the Premier League over recent seasons – with Tottenham being one of the sides unable to contain the Arsenal winger.
The 23-year-old has scored five times against the Lilywhites in his career – the most of any side he’s faced – often claiming bragging rights for Mikel Arteta’s side in the North London derby.
Such performances have undoubtedly left the Spurs faithful wishing they had a player of his quality, but talents like the Englishman would cost a pretty penny in the modern market.
To make matters worse for the Lilywhites faithful, Saka will be aided in his attempts at the Emirates by Eze – rubbing further salt into the wounds after missing out on his signature.
However, their pain may be short-lived, especially if they can land a deal for Savinho, with the City star able to make the fans forget about the failed move for the 27-year-old.
The Brazilian has been labelled as a similar player to Saka by FBref, a comparison that is understandable when delving into his underlying stats from the previous campaign.
The 21-year-old managed to outperform the Gunners star in numerous key areas, subsequently handing Frank his own version of the top-level attacker.
How Savinho & Saka compared in the PL (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)
Savinho
Saka
Games played
29
25
Goals & assists
9
16
Shot on target accuracy
38%
33%
Progressive carries
7.1
5
Pass accuracy
81%
75%
Passes into the opposition box
2.4
1.9
Take-on success
46%
45%
Carries into final third
2.3
1.6
Carries into the opposition box
3.8
2.6
Stats via FBref
Savinho, who’s been labelled “incredible” by current boss Guardiola, posted a higher shot on target accuracy rate – able to cut inside off the right-hand side trouble the ‘keeper on a more consistent basis.
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His ability to get shots off around the 18-yard box is undoubtedly crucial, but the need for a creative presence within the current first-team squad has been evident of late.
The Brazilian could provide just that with any move to North London, bettering Saka in various areas – such as passes completed and passes into the opposition area per 90.
However, Savinho has also caused havoc to the opposition with his talent at driving the opposition – registering more carries into the penalty area per 90, whilst also achieving a higher take-on success rate.
Missing out on Eze will certainly be a bitter blow, but any disappointment could be pushed aside if the hierarchy manage to get a deal over the line for the City youngster.
If he does make the move, the 21-year-old would have all the tools to match Saka’s achievements in the capital, undoubtedly offering the needed threat Frank has been hunting for throughout the off-season.
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With each passing season, or even each passing game, what it means to be Manchester United appears to be drifting away.
No longer a winning machine, the soul of the club has also been somewhat lost of late, amid the relentless redundancies that have been rolled out by the INEOS regime – all to help fund another collection of expensive player incomings.
On the pitch, Ruben Amorim’s persistence with his 3-4-2-1 system appears at odds with the great teams of the past, having slipped so far from the gung-ho, edge-of-your-seat style which was synonymous with Sir Alex Ferguson – and those before him.
A microcosm of the modern game, United’s most damning act has been the repeated selling of the family silver, with academy graduates the major victims in recent years.
Only last summer, the Red Devils shipped Scott McTominay off to Napoli amid the desire to bring in Manuel Ugarte in his place. One of that duo is now a Ballon d’Or nominee…
As for this summer, Alejandro Garnacho has been allowed to join the Chelsea circus, while fellow FA Cup final hero Kobbie Mainoo has been tipped to follow him out the exit door, amid his lack of regular game time.
A player whom Gary Neville suggested the club should be “building [the team] around”, Mainoo simply can’t be allowed to leave. Instead, a new addition is needed to help revive him.
Latest on Man Utd's midfield search
“Now I’m a Baleba…”
Brighton & Hove Albion's CarlosBalebain action with Everton's Idrissa Gueye
The songs had already been written; scarves were no doubt being sold. Alas, unless a drastic change occurs, United won’t be forking out the required £100m plus fee for Brighton and Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba, despite identifying the Cameroonian as a leading target.
With the Seagulls holding firm on their desire to keep hold of their 21-year-old sensation, Amorim’s search for an athletic number eight will have to shift its focus, with the centre of the park in particular need of reinforcement, amid the continued reliance on an ageing Casemiro.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
With that in mind, Caught Offside have reported that United are showing an interest in signing Atletico Madrid midfielder, Conor Gallagher, with the England international seemingly in line for a return to the Premier League.
As per the report, the 25-year-old is available heading into the final days of the window, with the LaLiga outfit slapping a £45m asking price on his head. That would ensure that an offer in that region would likely be accepted.
Unsurprisingly, Amorim and co aren’t alone in their interest, as Tottenham Hotspur are said to be the club who are ‘leading the race’ right now. The Lilywhites are even said to be ready to make a bid.
Why Conor Gallagher could be perfect for Mainoo
The key crux of the issue right now for young Mainoo is that Amorim has outlined that he views the 20-year-old as a competitor, rather than a partner, for Bruno Fernandes in central midfield, thus ensuring his route to game time is severely blocked.
That said, United’s chief creator may well still be better suited to a number ten berth, thus perhaps opening the door for Mainoo to nail down the number eight role instead, having previously thrived in a deeper position during his breakout 2023/24 season.
While last term was a tale of injuries and frustration, it’s easy to forget just what a revelation the Englishman was the year prior, having kicked things off with a Man of the Match display on his first Premier League start at Everton in November 2023.
A meteoric rise over the next few months saw the then-teenager net that Wembley winner, prior to starting every knockout game during England’s surge to the Euro 2024 final – having even started the showpiece defeat to Spain.
A “generational” talent, in the view of teammate Rasmus Hojlund, Mainoo possesses that unerring ability to simply breeze past opponents, with his poise and power having even led Anthony Elanga to describe him as having “similar attributes to Paul Pogba”.
Man Utd’s most valuable graduates
Player
Value
Marcus Rashford
£42m
Scott McTominay
£42m
Kobbie Mainoo
£42m
Alejandro Garnacho
£38m
Anthony Elanga
£36m
Mason Greenwood
£34m
Alvaro Carreras
£30m
Dwight McNeil
£21m
Dean Henderson
£17m
Angel Gomes
£17m
via Transfermarkt
Pogba’s time at United is enough for a 10,000-word piece on its own, but where the Frenchman truly shone was on the international stage, partnering a certain N’Golo Kante as Les Bleus claimed World Cup glory in 2018.
Like the mercurial Pogba, Mainoo is in need of that athletic workhorse alongside him – particularly so in this 3-4-2-1 system.
Enter, Gallagher.
Previously described as being like “Kante with goals” by talkSPORT pundit Tony Cascarino – having also been likened to his ex-Chelsea colleague by Thomas Tuchel – the Atleti star would represent the perfect foil for Mainoo in the engine room.
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A pressing “monster” – as per Tom Dutton – the £45m man notably ranked in the top 4% of Champions League midfielders for interceptions per 90 last season, as per FBref, having been a relentless presence in Diego Simeone’s setup.
Also ranking in the top 1% for passes between 15 and 30 yards, the one-time Crystal Palace loanee plays a simple but effective game, ensuring he could win back possession, before picking out the likes of Mainoo ahead of him.
That’s not to say he’s simply the archetypal ‘piano carrier’, however, with Gallagher also offering a real threat in his own right in attack, having registered six goals and assists in LaLiga last term. His pass accuracy rate of 87%, as per Sofascore, is also nothing to be sniffed at.
There might be more technically proficient players on the market, but few boast such impressive physical traits, with the Cobham graduate perhaps representing the athletic solution that Amorim has been searching for all summer.
If a deal can be struck in the dying embers, it could well be just what is needed to get the best out of Mainoo again. Should Amorim fail to revive United’s golden boy, on his head be it…
Great news for Mainoo: Amorim's "magician" is now open to leaving Man Utd
Manchester United might lose one of their most important players before the transfer window closes.
Celtic are looking to seal deals for multiple attacking reinforcements and one of their key targets is now set for a medical before finalising a move to Parkhead.
Celtic up the transfer ante with several targets being pursued
The Bhoys claimed a point against Rangers in yesterday’s forgettable first Glasgow Derby of the Scottish Premiership season, which has prompted a frantic search for reinforcements after a blunt attacking display.
Overnight, reports began to circulate that Celtic have submitted a loan offer to sign Crystal Palace winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, who is also on the radar of Rangers, Lyon and Leicester City before the close of play.
Brendan Rodgers has made it clear that adding creativity and a clinical edge in the forward areas is needed to bolster his side once they return from the international break.
Nevertheless, he stopped short of naming names, telling BBC Sportsound (via 67 Hail Hail): “We need to improve in many aspects. And like I said, hopefully, we can bring in the players that can support us in that.
“And also that attitude to go on and play and play with no fear and play with that belief. And that all comes really when you carry that threat at the top end of the pitch.”
Birmingham hold talks to sign "valuable" £3m ace; waiting on "green-light"
This is exactly what Chris Davies could be after.
ByHenry Jackson
Kasper Dolberg would fit the brief of an exciting Celtic addition, and the Anderlecht striker remains in talks over a move to Glasgow, albeit no agreement has been struck as of yet.
Time is running out in the Bhoys’ quest to land new signings, and there could be a hectic evening ahead for supporters, given the Scottish deadline passes at 11 pm, though they may be able to welcome one of their key targets through the door before then.
Celtic agree deal to sign Sebastian Tounekti
According to Tunisian journalist Mahdi Abid via CeltsAreHere, Celtic have agreed a deal to sign Hammarby winger Sebastian Tounekti and he is now set to undergo a medical ahead of a move to the club.
Abid doesn’t mention the fee that he could end up being sold to the Glasgow giants for, though Sky Sports journalist Joseph has recently claimed on X that the Hoops have put forward a £5.2 million bid to land the Tromso-born star.
Transfer stories take many twists and turns that are worth watching out for, but if all is well, Celtic will land Tounekti before the window closes after his return of three goals and five assists in 27 appearances for the Swedish heavyweights.
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Previously, the Hammarby winger was a target for Leicester City and it is unknown what other clubs were keen on offering him a route to stardom beyond life in Stockholm.
With hours of the window remaining, Rodgers appears set to follow through on his promise of adding more quality in the final third, albeit the Bhoys face a race against time to rubber-stamp any remaining formalities.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s 26-year reign as manager of Manchester United saw him win two Champions Leagues and 13 Premier League titles, among a vast number of other trophies.
Next to the success, what Ferguson will be remembered for in years to come is the quality of players that he managed, including some of the best that the Premier League and the world have ever seen.
Sir Alex Ferguson's final game at Manchester United.
The list included Ballon d’Or winners like Cristiano Ronaldo and Michael Owen, as well as world-regarded midfielders like Paul Scholes and Roy Keane.
However, the downside of managing such a plethora of star players is that some unsung heroes end up receiving less attention than they deserve.
Park could have been Man Utd difference in 2011 Champions League final
In an interview with Gary Neville, Ferguson was asked about some of the most underrated players he coached, and one he highlighted in particular was Park Ji-Sung. The South Korean star joined United in 2005 and won four Premier Leagues, three League Cups and one Champions League before leaving for QPR in 2012.
Ferguson’s comments related to his regret about not properly utilising Park in the 2011 Champions League final against Barcelona at Wembley.
Alongside Park, Ferguson named Brian McClaire and Ronny Jonsen as the most underrated players he managed, who were both also instrumental in numerous trophies that Ferguson won with United.
Ji-Sung Park in a legends match against Barcelona
Loved by his teammates as well as the boss
Nicknamed “Three-Lung Park” by some of the Old Trafford faithful, the South Korea star made 205 appearances for Manchester United and registered 27 goals and 28 assists.
His work ethic not only earned his managers’ admiration but also his fellow teammates. Park and Patrice Evra have a close friendship, and the left-back has previously shared that he doesn’t think that Park gets enough credit and that he was a “soldier” who put in “man-of-the-match” worthy performances against Barcelona in both legs of the 2008 Champions League semi-final.
Wayne Rooney and Rio Ferdinand have both praised Park as a team-first kind of player. Ferdinand said of Park, “you wanted him in your team,” and Rooney praised him further, saying:
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“All of us who played with Park know he was almost as important to our success. That’s because of what Park gave to the collective.”
While Park doesn’t receive the praise some of his United compatriots receive, those fans who watched him, those teammates who played with him, and most of all, Sir Alex Ferguson all know the effort and quality he brought to United during his time there.
Chelsea and BlueCo are reportedly making some transfer plans ahead of 2026 already, but for Enzo Maresca, his focus is entirely on the pitch.
Bayern Munich deal Chelsea their first defeat of the season
The Blues’ 23-man Champions League squad — which now includes summer signing Facundo Buonanotte who’s replaced the injured Dario Essugo — travelled to Bavaria to take on Bayern Munich last night in their opening game of the league phase.
Maresca could’ve hardly asked for a tougher first challenge of Chelsea’s European campaign, and Vincent Kompany’s side were on top form to deal the Blues’ their first defeat of 2025/2026.
A Trevoh Chalobah own goal and two strikes from Harry Kane — one from the penalty spot — cancelled out an excellent finish from Cole Palmer, who briefly grabbed one back from 2-0 down on the counterattack.
Palmer’s first full start after coming back from a groin injury was unfortunately marred by Chelsea’s loss at the Allianz Arena, with their return to the Champions League after a two-year absence ultimately spoiled.
That being said, the forward is adamant that Chelsea did enough to earn something from the 90.
Maresca was forced to start a centre-back pairing of Trevoh Chalobah and Tosin Adarabioyo again, who were ultimately undone by the talismanic Kane, with Chelsea believed to be in the market for a star defender once the window reopens.
Chelsea eyeing new centre-back after summer transfer failure
It is believed that Chelsea wanted to sign a centre-back in the summer window, but ultimately couldn’t find the right profile (Simon Phillips).
The Premier League’s biggest summer spenders
Team
Spent
Received
Net Spend
Liverpool
£415,000,000
£187,000,000
£228,000,000
Chelsea
£285,000,000
£288,000,000
-£3,000,000
Arsenal
£255,000,000
£9,000,000
£246,000,000
Newcastle
£250,000,000
£152,000,000
£98,000,000
Man Utd
£216,000,000
£68,000,000
£148,000,000
Nottm Forest
£205,000,000
£107,000,000
£98,000,000
Tottenham
£181,000,000
£36,000,000
£145,000,000
Sunderland
£162,000,000
£44,000,000
£118,000,000
Man City
£152,000,000
£53,000,000
£99,000,000
West Ham
£124,000,000
£55,000,000
£69,000,000
via BBC
Instead, BlueCo are expected to reserve that transfer plan for 2026, and the prospect of Chelsea bringing in a star man for the heart of their backline is very much alive for January.
Reports have suggested that Chelsea are admirers of ex-player Marc Guehi, even if his preferred destination is Liverpool (Simon Phillips), with reporter Graeme Bailey now claiming that they’re still expected to make him an offer.
Chelsea to make offer for Marc Guehi next summer
Speaking to the Chelsea Chronicle, Bailey says he is convinced that Chelsea will make an offer for Guehi, and believes that they can win the race for the ex-Cobham starlet, who left Stamford Bridge in 2021 after making two senior appearances.
In terms of potential centre-back targets, Guehi stands chief among the most appealing potential signings — both in terms of cost and quality.
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The 25-year-old is now an established England international and Premier League stalwart, branded “sensational” by Palace chairman Steve Parish, and he’s likely to be one of the most in-demand free agents of 2026.
Unfortunately for Chelsea, the likes of Liverpool, Man City, Real Madrid and Barcelona are also eyeing a move for Guehi (The Mirror), among others, so the battle for his signature will be intense.