All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

Liverpool are now lining up a club-record bid to sign an “incredible” former Manchester City player, who could cost over £100m this summer, according to a report.

Reds eyeing Darwin Nunez replacements

Darwin Nunez has received widespread criticism this season, and there were suggestions the Uruguayan could make a move to Saudi Arabia during the January transfer window, although he ultimately ended up staying at Anfield.

However, it is clear the end could be near for Nunez, as the Reds are stepping up their pursuit of a new striker, and a recent report has revealed they have opened talks over a deal for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.

Contact has also been made with the representatives of Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, but the Sweden international will not come cheap, as the Magpies are looking to hold out for a fee of £148m for their talisman.

"Tenacious" £50m Premier League ace "close" to move with Liverpool in pole

The Reds are in pole position currently.

2 ByHenry Jackson Mar 14, 2025

As such, Isak may be unattainable this summer, and another option is seemingly moving up the list of targets, with a report from Anfield Watch revealing Liverpool are now lining up a club-record bid to sign Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez.

The Spanish club value Alvarez very highly, and it may take an offer of over £100m to tempt them into a sale, but the Reds are undeterred by the valuation, having been keen on the forward for quite some time.

Prior to the former Manchester City man’s move to La Liga, talks were held with Pep Guardiola’s side, but an agreement could not be struck, given the high asking price and an insistence that Luis Diaz would be used as a makeweight.

There could be a new approach made for the 25-year-old, however, as he is viewed internally as a perfect fit for Arne Slot’s side, given his work-rate, ability to play in multiple positions, and keen eye for goal.

"Incredible" Alvarez is proven at the top level

During his time with Manchester City, the striker was lauded as “incredible” by Guardiola, who also praised him for the “massive” contribution he made to their success.

Despite having a penalty ruled out in controversial fashion against Real Madrid earlier this week, the Argentina international has gone on to impress at Atletico Madrid, too, racking up a remarkable 22 goals and five assists in all competitions.

That said, considering the Atletico star is contracted until 2030, it may be very difficult to prise him away from the Spanish side this summer, and some other targets mentioned in the report may be more attainable.

The Reds are said to hold a good relationship with RB Leipzig, which could give them the edge in the race for Sesko, while Isak is believed to be keen on a move to Merseyside.

West Ham United have reportedly tested the waters by making contact over a move to sign a £33m+ defender ahead of Manchester United.

West Ham looking to spend again ahead of Potter’s first full season in charge

The Hammers and Graham Potter appear to already be working behind the scenes at the London Stadium on potential summer signings ahead of the 2025/26 season. It will be Potter’s first full campaign in charge of the Irons, who splashed the cash on a plethora of new faces last summer.

There have been numerous transfer links regarding West Ham signing a new forward, following injuries to Michail Antonio and Niclas Fullkrug in 2024/25.

Antonio recently made a return to the London Stadium following a serious car crash at the end of 2024, however, the forward is adamant he’ll play again.

“Yes, 100%. I will play again. That’s what I am focused on and why I am working six days a week. I’ve always been positive from this situation. It’s a horrendous accident, and it’s a massive injury.

“It’s the biggest injury I’ve ever had in my career. But the fact that I’m already two to three months ahead of where I should be, I know that I’ll play again, and I know that once I’m playing the game I’ll get the sharpness back.”

Ruthless from Potter as West Ham want to sell Lopetegui signing for £25m

One club are circling.

ByCharlie Smith Mar 27, 2025

Lille’s Jonathan David, Fiorentina’s Moise Kean and Corinthians’ Yuri Alberto are just three attackers thought to be of interest to West Ham, but additions could also be made at the back.

Royal Antwerp goalkeeper Senne Lammens has been linked with a move to London in recent days, and now, a centre-back target has come onto West Ham’s radar.

West Ham test waters over move for £33m+ defender

According to reports in Italy, relayed by Sport Witness, West Ham are looking at signing Udinese defender Oumar Solet. They’ve made contact and tested the waters over a potential deal and have received encouragement, with Udinese looking at possible replacements.

Solet, who was linked with the Irons last summer, hasn’t signed a new deal with the Serie A side and is out of contract in 2027, meaning an exit could be on the cards in the coming months.

Udinese want at least €40m (£33.3m) to part ways with Solet, who they only signed back in January. The 25-year-old previously turned out for the likes of Lyon and RB Salzburg, however, he was without a club for a few months prior to moving to Italy at the beginning of 2025.

Nico Schlotterbeck

Borussia Dortmund

Alessandro Bastoni

Inter Milan

Jan Paul van Hecke

Brighton

Waldemar Anton

Borussia Dortmund

Now, it looks as if he could be on the move again, but this time for big money if the Irons firm up their interest after contact by making an offer. If they do, Potter will be getting a centre-back who can also turn out as a holding midfielder if needed.

As Kobbie Mainoo’s contract negotiations continue to stall, Manchester United have reportedly set their sights on signing a young midfielder who’s shown more creativity than their academy graduate.

Man Utd eyeing impressive midfielder

The Red Devils have it all to do this summer if they are to make significant improvement under Ruben Amorim. On course for a mid-table finish in the Premier League, whether INEOS have the funds available to rebuild their side is another question, but that hasn’t stopped the rumours from arriving.

The likes of Matheus Cunha and Chris Rigg have both been among the headlines this week, with Manchester United reportedly targeting moves to sign the impressive duo. Cunha would particularly offer Amorim a much-needed upgrade in attack, putting an end to the blunt nature of a frontline centred around Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee.

Meanwhile, Rigg represents one of the most talented young players that English football has to offer. The 17-year-old has become one to watch at Sunderland and could yet find himself on his way to Old Trafford at the same time that Mainoo’s future is thrown into doubt.

The Carrington graduate is yet to sign a new deal and previous reports suggested that he could seek a move abroad, potentially forcing the Red Devils to turn towards a Champions League-level replacement.

According to Calcio Mercato, Manchester United are now readying a move to sign Ardon Jashari, who Club Brugge value at around €35m (£29m) this summer. The Premier League giants aren’t alone in their interest, with Juventus, Atalanta, AC Milan and AS Roma all chasing the midfielder’s signature, but they are ready to ‘go on the attack’.

Man Utd star was ahead of Amad, but then Ten Hag sold him for just £15m

Manchester United may have made a huge mistake offloading one player in recent years.

ByEthan Lamb Mar 27, 2025

Still just 22 years old, Jashari has impressed throughout the current campaign, performing well in the Champions League against the likes of Aston Villa and interested party Juventus. Now, as a hectic race begins to form, he may have a decision to make.

"Great" Jashari is more creative than Mainoo

Two players who would sit in a deeper role in Amorim’s system rather than the advanced roles, Jashari has proven to be more influential going forward than Mainoo this season and could yet offer Manchester United an instant upgrade.

Despite sitting deep, the 22-year-old has had a hand in as many as nine goals – scoring three and assisting a further six in all competitions. Mainoo, meanwhile, in a season full of injury frustrations, has managed just one goal and one assist.

As both Zirkzee and Hojlund struggle for consistency in front of goal too, any help from the midfield alongside Bruno Fernandes’ output certainly wouldn’t go amiss at Old Trafford.

Praised for his “great technical ability” by analyst Ben Mattinson before he even earned a move to Club Brugge, Jashari has only improved since those days and now looks destined for a big move.

Everton’s nine-match unbeaten streak in the Premier League crumbled as David Moyes’ side lost to Liverpool at Anfield.

Moyes, who has never won across from Stanley Park over 22 visits, took the defeat on the chin, and fair play to him. Everton have been transformed since he waltzed through the gates in January, skipping far away from the relegation zone and instead creating a foundation from which new goals can be set for the 2025/26 campaign and beyond.

There’s still plenty to play for over the coming weeks, though, with the 15th-place Toffees set to welcome Arsenal to Goodison Park at noon.

The Gunners beat Fulham in midweek but were left reeling after their latest fitness blow in a season of fitness blows, Gabriel Magalhaes ruled out for the season after injuring his hamstring.

23/24

Premier League

1-0 loss

22/23

Premier League

1-0 win

21/22

Premier League

2-1 win

20/21

Premier League

2-1 win

19/20

Premier League

0-0 draw

Bukayo Saka has returned, scoring off the bench against the Cottagers. Everton will need to be on their A-game. However, Moyes will be buoyed by his thinning-out infirmary pile.

Everton team news

James Tarkowski will reprise his usual role at centre-half after escaping punishment for a lunging challenge on Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister.

On the injury front, Orel Mangala is still, of course, out for the season, but Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Dwight McNeil are nearing returns from respective setbacks; Saturday’s fixture might come too soon.

Armando Broja, talking of strikers, has been fit again for several fixtures and has featured off the bench in both of Everton’s recent Premier League games, but he’s unlikely to displace Beto, even if the powerful centre-forward’s Midas touch in front of goal has deserted him.

It’s unlikely Moyes will field more than one or two changes, but there is one potential tweak sure to be on the manager’s mind.

Iliman Ndiaye made his anticipated return in the second half at Anfield, fit again after being withdrawn injured in February, during the 2-2 draw against Liverpool at Goodison Park.

For him to return to the starting line-up, Moyes must axe another star.

Why Iliman Ndiaye could be the difference-maker

Ndiaye’s second-half introduction was met by a chorus of cheers from the travelling Toffees under the Liverpool lights. The game might have been lost, but he’s a devastating talent, signed from Marseille for about £15m last summer.

Eight goals across 29 appearances in all competitions for Everton speak of a blooming goal threat, not least because he bagged in each of Moyes’ opening three victories before falling to injury against the Reds.

Of course, the Senegalese is hardly just a ball-striking threat. As per FBref, he ranks among the top 19% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Premier League this term for pass completion, the top 7% for successful take-ons and the top 14% for tackles + interceptions per 90.

Capable across both attacking flanks, Ndiaye should replace Jack Harrison on the right, allowing Charly Alcaraz to continue his journey on the left; when you compare Ndiaye and Harrison’s respective data pools across the campaign, it becomes clear as to why.

Matches (starts)

26 (18)

25 (22)

Goals

1

6

Assists

0

0

Touches*

29.8

39.2

Shots (on target)*

1.0 (0.2)

1.0 (0.4)

Big chances missed

4

2

Pass completion

75%

84%

Key passes*

1.1

0.6

Dribbles*

0.8

2.3

Ball recoveries*

2.2

5.9

Tackles + interceptions*

1.2

2.5

Duels won*

2.7

5.9

Harrison’s a man of industry and energy, but he’s struggled to offer much of substance in the way of goals, assists, key contributions.

Ndiaye brings so much more to the table, with his unique brand of football sure to revive Beto at the front of the ship too. The hulking Bissau-Guinean scored five Premier League goals across four matches through February, skill set unlocked with Moyes in the driving seat.

However, the goals have dried up, with Beto now without a successful strike across four top-flight fixtures. But how exactly could Ndiaye fix his woes?

Well, while Beto’s litany of missed big chances – five since last scoring, to be exact – are a by-product of his own returned profligacy, he’s not exactly being supplied with the greatest supplementary force.

Harrison was particularly out of sorts against Liverpool on Wednesday evening, failing with both of his attempted dribbles while also losing every single one of his seven contested duels.

A loanee, he’s being outstripped by Ndiaye – who has been praised for his “dynamite” quality by Sky Sports’ Jamie Redknapp – and, frankly, most positional peers in the Premier League this season, and his 25-year-old teammate’s return could bear dividends for an Everton side seeking a return to winning ways.

Let’s not forget, the Blues have now gone five games without a win in the league, albeit only losing one of those matchups. Still, it’s clear that Moyes needs more firepower from varying angles to overcome tough opponents.

Arsenal have conceded the fewest number of goals in the Premier League this season, with David Raya also boasting the second-best save percentage in the division this term at 76.5% (FBref).

It’s going to be difficult, even if Everton have a stentorian Goodison crowd behind them. The players will need the 12th man, but they will also need Ndiaye in their starting mix, for he adds so much flavour and could elevate Beto up top.

Moyes may have found the new Gareth Barry in Everton's £100k-p/w "leader"

Everton went punch for punch with Liverpool in the Merseyside derby at Anfield.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 3, 2025

Arsenal transfer chiefs have been told exactly what they need to sign Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano, with the Gunners given a “clear” message behind-the-scenes.

Arsenal's shortlist of summer striker targets for Mikel Arteta

Alongside Gyokeres, new sporting director Andrea Berta is believed to be looking at a number of centre-forwards to potentially move for in the summer transfer window.

Arteta has "serious" wish to sign £40m star with Arsenal contact made

The Gunners boss is “huge fan”.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Apr 16, 2025

Newcastle United star Alexander Isak is taking the Premier League by storm yet again this season, racking up 24 goals and six assists in all competitions, and reliable media sources indicate Gyokeres’ international teammate is actually a “dream” target for Arsenal (Ben Jacobs).

However, while Isak is reportedly top of Mikel Arteta’s wishlist, a move for the Swede is less viable considering his rumoured price tag stands at a minimum of £150 million.

Arsenal want to bolster the goalkeeping position, full-back area, in midfield and sign further upgrades out wide in the summer (GiveMeSport), so Berta simply cannot afford to splash such a figure on just one signing, no matter the quality.

RB Leipzig starlet Benjamin Sesko is another striker target for Arsenal, and one who could leave for just £62 million, due to the value of his current release clause (Sky Sports). The Slovenian boasts 19 goals in all competitions, and Arsenal did attempt to sign Sesko as a top target last summer, so this could still be one to watch.

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

April 23rd

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

The competition for his signature will be fierce, as a host of elite Premier League sides, including Chelsea and Man United, are also reportedly looking to bring in a prolific number nine this summer.

The same can be said of Gyokeres, who has been repeatedly linked with a move to N5 recently as interest in the former Coventry City star grows stronger from Arsenal’s side.

There are even reports that Arsenal are ready to offer Gyokeres a £192,000-per-week contract to join Arteta’s side, and now Romano has shared a fresh update on their pursuit of the 26-year-old.

Arsenal told price to sign Viktor Gyokeres "in recent days"

Writing in a column for GiveMeSport, Romano claims Arsenal have been given a “clear” communication over Gyokeres’ price “in recent days/weeks”.

The Primeira Liga sensation can leave for much less than his £86 million release clause, namely a fee of up to £60 million, with add-ons, deal structure and payment terms still to be discussed.

Berta is also said to be a huge fan of his, so the Italian’s stance on a deal is also crystal clear. While Gyokeres has been a pivotal player for the Portuguese heavyweights, racking up a sensational 44 goals and 11 assists in all competitions this season, the club are impressed with his conduct since last summer as well.

He’s made no trouble behind-closed-doors over a transfer and has behaved professionally, meaning Sporting are more inclined to help facilitate his dream move, with the Premier League looking more and more like a credible destination.

Gyokeres’ quality is evident for all to see, and often doesn’t get discussed enough, and some around the game are convinced he’s actually a “massively underrated” player for all he’s achieved in terms of a very impressive goalscoring record.

It’s arguably a mystery why no club has invested in the forward’s capture just yet, but it probably won’t be long now.

Leeds United are preparing for life back in the Premier League after winning promotion from the Championship at the second time of asking under Daniel Farke.

The Whites and the 49ers Enterprises have already been linked with replacing the Leeds manager ahead of their top flight return due to concerns about his previous record with Norwich City.

In what would be a ruthless call from the Elland Road board, Leeds are also likely to be very busy in the transfer market to bolster their squad with quality on the pitch to remain a Premier League side.

Latest Leeds 2025 summer transfer targets: in pictures

Kalvin Phillips

29

Man City

Manor Solomon

25

Tottenham

Sam Johnstone

32

Wolves

Julian Weigl

29

Borussia Monchengladbach

Evan Ferguson

20

Brighton

Tomas Soucek

30

West Ham

Caoimhin Kelleher

26

Liverpool

Nico Elvedi

28

Borussia Monchengladbach

George Hirst

26

Ipswich Town

Aaron Ramsdale

26

Southampton

Nicolas Raskin

24

Rangers

Hidemasa Morita

29

Sporting CP

Abdoulaye Doucoure

32

Everton

Angus Gunn

29

Norwich City

Tammy Abraham

27

AS Roma

James Trafford

22

Burnley

Djordje Petrovic

25

Chelsea

Modibo Sagnan

26

Montpellier

Zaidu Sanusi

27

FC Porto

Dembo Saidykhan

21

Vancouver Whitecaps

1 Kalvin Phillips Man City

Former Whites midfielder Kalvin Phillips has found life difficult after leaving Leeds for Man City in 2022. Recent loan spells at West Ham and Ipswich Town haven’t worked out for the defensive midfielder, who could now be on the search for another new club this summer.

Reports have linked Phillips with a return to Leeds, saying that he is keen on the idea of heading back to his boyhood club.

Appearances

234

Goals

14

Assists

13

Yellow cards

54

Red cards

4

Minutes played

18,257

2 Manor Solomon Tottenham

Loanee Manor Solomon has helped Leeds into the Premier League with some crucial displays during the run-in, and he is expected to become a permanent Whites player this summer.

The Israel international could cost around £15m, with claims he is set to be Leeds’ first signing of the window.

3 Sam Johnstone Wolves

A new goalkeeper to replace Illan Meslier could be high up on the to-do list for Leeds, and Sam Johnstone of Wolves is thought to be of interest at Elland Road.

A goalkeeper with plenty of Premier League experience now after stints with West Brom, Crystal Palace and Wolves, Johnstone was actually on the books of rivals Man Utd early in his career and starred against Leeds back in 2023.

4 Julian Weigl Borussia Monchengladbach

Farke has previously worked with midfielder Julian Weigl at Borussia Monchengladbach and recent claims have suggested that initial contact has taken place over a move to Leeds.

The Monchengladbach captain has plenty of experience in the Bundesliga and has even played in the Champions League, so he could add that extra bit of quality in midfield for the Whites.

5 Evan Ferguson Brighton

With doubts at Leeds over Joel Piroe and Patrick Bamford in the Premier League, a new striker looks set to be signed ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, with Brighton’s Evan Ferguson a target.

The Irishman has been on loan at West Ham for the second half of the 2024/25 season, and by the looks of things, Leeds could try their luck with a forward who could be the “next Harry Kane”.

6 Tomas Soucek West Ham

Towering West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek is another Premier League player to be linked with Leeds, especially after falling out of favour under Graham Potter recently.

The Czech Republic international is wanted by Leeds and Everton with the 49ers even willing to pay him a whopping £120,000-a-week, an increase on his current Hammers deal.

Europa Conference League

2023

Czech First League

2017, 2019, 2020

Czech Cup

2018, 2019

7 Caoimhin Kelleher Liverpool

Another goalkeeper who could replace Meslier at Elland Road is Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher, who could be a man in demand over the coming months.

Kelleher has impressed when called upon at Anfield and may well become number one for the first time in his career in Yorkshire.

Premier League

2020, 2025

Champions League

2019

FA Cup

2022

EFL Cup

2022, 2024

UEFA Super Cup

2019

8 Nico Elvedi Borussia Monchengladbach

Another Borussia Monchengladbach player who Farke knows well is defender Nico Elvedi, who has been with the Bundesliga side since 2015.

Reports claimed that Leeds were preparing a £10m offer to sign the experienced Switzerland international if promotion was secured, something they can now do.

9 George Hirst Ipswich Town

Leeds could look to raid the teams coming down from the Premier League, with recent rumours of a move for Ipswich Town forward George Hirst.

The Tractor Boys are looking to keep the attacker at Portman Road with a new deal due to interest from the Whites and fellow promoted side Burnley.

10 Aaron Ramsdale Southampton

Another Premier League relegated target is goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who reportedly has a £25m release clause in his Southampton contract.

The Englishman has admirers from Leeds and the likes of Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest, although he could get regular game time at Elland Road.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have avoided relegation back down to the Championship and will be competing in the Premier League once again next season.

Vitor Pereira has left the club to safety and will now have the chance to bring his own players to Molineux in his first summer transfer window with the Old Gold.

The Portuguese head coach, however, may also have to contend with some of his star players moving on from the club, including Rayan Ait-Nouri.

Why Rayan Ait-Nouri could leave Wolves

The Telegraph recently reported that Wolves want to offer the defender a new deal, but that there is still doubt over his future at the club due to interest from elsewhere.

It was revealed that Manchester City and Liverpool have both sent scouts to watch the Algeria international, who is valued at £50m by Wolves, in action this season.

Ait-Nouri, who produced three goals and two assists in all competitions last season, has improved his output at the top end of the pitch, with a return of five goals and seven assists for the Old Gold this term.

His form has attracted interest from two of the best teams in the Premier League, which is why he could be on his way out of the club in the summer if significant bids come in for him.

Journalist Graeme Bailey recently revealed that Wolves are keeping tabs on Sunderland defender Dennis Cirkin, and a move for the Englishman could allow the club to forget all about Ait-Nouri.

Why Wolves should sign Dennis Cirkin

Wolves should swoop to sign the Black Cats star in the summer transfer window because it would ease the blow of losing the Algerian left-back to Liverpool or Manchester City.

Transfer Focus

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

Cirkin, who was hailed as “eye-catching” by pundit Sam Parkin, was described as “the best full-back in the Championship” by journalist Josh Bunting, which speaks to how impressive the full-back has been in the second tier.

The 23-year-old ace, who has helped his side to keep 11 clean sheets in 30 starts, is an excellent defender who could offer more solidity down the left flank than Ait-Nouri currently does for Pereira.

Appearances

34

36

Tackles per game

2.4

2.5

Interceptions per game

0.7

1.2

Clearances per game

1.7

2.6

Ground duel success rate

55%

55%

Aerial duel success rate

42%

44%

Red cards

1

0

As you can see in the table above, the Sunderland dynamo has the potential to offer more to the team from a defensive perspective because he makes tackles, interceptions, and clearances more frequently, while also winning a higher percentage of his aerial contests.

Cirkin can also maraud forward to make an impact at the top end of the pitch, having scored three goals and provided two assists in the Championship this term, which means that he could still offer a threat going forward as well.

Of course, the caveat is that the former Spurs youngster is currently playing in the second tier and is an unproven quantity in the Premier League, but he is a young player with time left ahead of him to develop and improve and has shown plenty of promising signs in a Sunderland shirt.

The new Gibbs-White: Wolves planning move for £50m Premier League talent

Wolverhampton Wanderers might be about to land their next Morgan Gibbs-White if this deal is successful.

ByKelan Sarson May 7, 2025

Therefore, Wolves could forget all about Ait-Nouri, and sanction a sale for the defender, if they can strike an agreement with the Black Cats to bring the impressive Cirkin to the Molineux this summer.

They may have a season-defining game to come in the Champions League tomorrow night and a second-place finish in the Premier League to secure, but Arsenal seem to be looking ahead to the summer transfer window.

While it’s not been quite as catastrophic as some might have you believe, this year hasn’t gone entirely to plan for Mikel Arteta’s side, so the determination to add some real quality to the squad in the coming months makes perfect sense.

One of the most prominent links, and a player who was touted for a move to the club as far back as last summer, is Nico Williams.

The Spanish international is one of the most exciting wingers on the continent, but if recent reports are to be believed, the club could now have identified an alternative target: someone who shares the same agent as Bukayo Saka.

Arsenal's winger search

Given Arsenal’s need for more goals next season, it’s not been a surprise to see them linked to a plethora of dangerous wingers in recent weeks, such as Rayan Cherki and Kingsley Coman.

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 just £30m, which might end up being one of the bargains of the summer, as in just 42 appearances for Lyon this year, the Frenchman has scored 12 goals and provided a whopping 19 assists.

Coman, on the other hand, might be a little less exciting in the eyes of the fans, as while he’s managed to rack up a reasonable enough tally of seven goals and four assists in 39 appearances this year, he has an awful injury record, will be 29 at the start of next season, and would cost around £34m.

So, while he’s had a sensational career, it wouldn’t be accurate to describe him as being a potential upgrade on Williams, unlike the tremendously exciting Jamie Gittens.

Yes, according to a recent report from German publication Ruhr Nachrichten, Arsenal are incredibly interested in the Borussia Dortmund star, who has reportedly told his teammates he will be leaving in the summer and is part of the same agency as Saka.

In fact, while Chelsea are also keen on the young Englishman, the report has revealed that it’s the Gunners who are leading the race for his signature, partly down the clearer pathway to game time and the more stable nature of the club.

It wouldn’t be a cheap transfer to get over the line, with the report claiming that Dortmund will want up to €60m for the player, which is about £51m, but given his ability and potential, that may be a price worth paying, especially as he could be an upgrade on Williams.

How Gittens compares to Williams

Okay, so while Gittens can play off the right – and has even played up top at points – his preferred position is undoubtedly left-wing, which in turn makes it unlikely that Arsenal would sign him and Williams.

So, with that in mind, who comes out on top when we compare them?

Well, when it comes down to their raw output, even though it is a little complicated, the Dortmund star does come out on top.

For example, in 46 appearances this season, totalling just 2783 minutes, the 20-year-old “wonderkid,” as dubbed by Statman Dave, has scored 12 goals and provided five assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.70 games, or far more consequently, every 163.70 minutes.

In contrast, the Athletic Bilbao star has scored 11 goals and provided seven assists in 44 appearances, totalling 3050, so while he has an average of a goal involvement every 2.44 games, his minutes per goal involvement of 169.44 is marginally worse than his potential rival.

Moreover, when we take a look under the hood, at their underlying numbers, it’s once again a closely run competition in which the Englishman just about comes ahead.

Non-Penalty G+As

0.56

0.47

Progressive Passes

2.14

3.19

Progressive Carries

5.71

5.31

Shots

2.65

1.22

Shots on Target

2.44

0.89

Passing Accuracy

76.5%

70.7%

Key Passes

1.07

1.83

Expected Assists

0.21

0.19

Passes into the Penalty Area

1.22

1.31

Shot-Creating Actions

3.72

5.12

Tackles Won

0.97

0.80

Interceptions

0.51

0.28

Successful Take-Ons

3.93

2.96

Carries into the Final Third

2.81

2.63

Carries into the Penalty Area

3.21

2.63

For example, he comes out ahead for a slight majority of relevant metrics, including, but not limited to, non-penalty goals plus assists, expected assists, shots and shots on target, passing accuracy, progressive carries, successful take-ons, carries into the penalty area, tackles won and more, all per 90.

Ultimately, regardless of which winger they do eventually sign, Arsenal will be getting someone who can contribute in the here and now and continue to develop into an even more exciting attacker as time goes on.

However, when it comes down to it, Gittens just about comes out ahead of Williams for output and underlying numbers, so if the North Londoners can only get one, they should go for the Englishman.

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ByJack Salveson Holmes May 6, 2025

Glasgow Rangers must make the right call when it comes to choosing Ibrox’s next manager. No ifs, no buts, no maybes.

With their Old Firm rivals recently securing their fourth Premiership title in a row, Rangers have won only two domestic honours in the last four seasons. This is simply not good enough for the Light Blues.

While an experienced manager is top of the priority list, might a left-field name stand a chance of securing the vacant role?

Rangers search for a new manager

Names such as Russell Martin, Gary O’Neil and Rob Edwards have been linked of late. Indeed, even Steven Gerrard has been touted for a return to Ibrox ahead of the 2025/26 season.

According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Davide Ancelotti had emerged as a candidate to take over the role at Rangers in recent days.

He looked to be in line to take over at Como if Cesc Fàbregas departed but things have now changed in the last 24 hours or so.

Son of Carlo, Ancelotti has never managed at senior level, but he has been an assistant to his father at clubs such as Real Madrid, Napoli, Bayern Munich and PSG. Well, he’s now set to break up that link.

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Reports emerged from Spain on Monday evening suggesting that he is, in fact, ‘set to become Rangers manager’ where he will be joined by fellow Real Madrid first-team coach, Francesco Mauri, as his No.2.

The news comes after it was confirmed that his father would be leaving Madrid behind at the end of the month as he becomes the new head coach of Brazil.

Why Ancelotti would be Gerrard 2.0 for Rangers

When Gerrard was appointed in the summer of 2018, his only previous role was taking charge of Liverpool U18s.

During his time as a coach at Anfield, the legendary midfielder won 18 of his 32 games while leading the U18s and U19s and thus, placing him in control of a club with the prestige of Rangers was a gamble. That gamble didn’t work out too badly at all.

Indeed, Gerrard’s first two seasons in charge saw the Light Blues defeat Celtic three times, including a first victory at Parkhead in nine years, as well as mounting a title challenge.

2020/21 would become his Annus mirabilis. Not only did the Ibrox side win the Premiership title, but they also did it undefeated.

Following the end of that season, the club needed investment in the playing squad in order to prove that the league title success wasn’t a fluke.

For Gerrard, he didn’t receive the backing required and eventually left in November 2021. The board took a risk on the inexperienced manager, and it eventually paid dividends.

2021/22

22

12

1.86

2020/21

56

44

2.52

2019/20

54

36

2.17

2018/19

60

32

1.9

Could they do something similar this summer? Ancelotti would certainly be left-field but has the name, although that shouldn’t count for too much, and the vital experience of having worked under one of the greatest managers of all time.

So, why’s he so highly thought of? Well, a sports science graduate, he clearly values the fitness of players but he’s particularly astute tactically too.

His main role at Madrid has been to offer different tactical perspectives to his father, which has seen his role grow incredibly important in the Spanish capital.

Not just content at being a second voice, according to the BBC, Davide also oversees training, takes charge of set-pieces and devises patterns of play.

In that sense, he’s a proper coach, perhaps a bit like Michael Beale. He’s the brains on the training ground. While tactically he might be more efficient than Gerrard, the lack of experience is certainly very similar here.

For further insight, the words of former Dundee United coach, Tam Courts, certainly help after he worked with the Italian during a coaching course. He previously praised the 35-year-old, saying: “He’s very humble but he has a lot of decisiveness too. He’s a man of character and has a bit of steel about him.

“I totally understand why he’s a guy Rangers would be considering, especially in terms of player attraction and retention. He’s a big name. Players would want to come, not just to play for Rangers, but for him as well.”

A glowing appraisal of his abilities, no doubt about that and if new reports are anything to go by, a move to Glasgow looks imminent.

Their new Morelos: Rangers eyeing "top striker" who'd cost just £8,000

Rangers have their eyes on a talented young striker

ByRoss Kilvington May 12, 2025

A new centre-forward could be on the cards for Celtic as they prepare for the upcoming summer transfer window, which officially opens for business next month.

The Scottish giants decided to cash in on one of their star forwards in the January transfer window when they allowed Kyogo Furuhashi to join Rennes on a permanent deal.

The Japan international, who scored 34 goals in all competitions in the 2022/23 campaign, moved on from Parkhead and the club did not opt to sign a direct replacement for him ahead of the second half of the season.

Celtic could land a domestic treble by beating Aberdeen in the SFA Cup final, which suggests that their form on the pitch has not been harmed by that decision.

However, Brendan Rodgers and his staff may want a longer-term solution to Kyogo’s exit when the summer transfer window opens for business, as Adam Idah is the only senior and recognised centre-forward at the club, alongside the versatile Daizen Maeda and young Johnny Kenny.

There is one former Celtic number nine who has recently made it clear that he would love to play for the Hoops again if the opportunity was there.

Former Celtic striker who would love to return to Parkhead

Greece international Giorgos Giakoumakis has revealed that he would be interested in playing in the green and white again, having left the club in 2023 to sign for Atlanta United in the MLS.

When asked if he would fit into the current team, the forward told the Daily Record: “You want to set the fire? I would love to play for Celtic again. I don’t know if that’s a utopia or if it could happen again – but who wouldn’t?”

There is nothing to suggest that Celtic are considering, or even would consider, a move to bring the striker back to Glasgow, but he did enjoy an interesting first spell at Paradise after joining from VVV-Venlo in the summer of 2021.

Giakoumakis was never a nailed-on starter who was in the XI week-in-week-out under Ange Postecoglou, as he preferred Kyogo Furuhashi in closer to a false nine role, but he performed admirably when given an opportunity.

Appearances

21

19

40

Starts

11

4

15

Goal

13

6

19

Minutes per goal

81

114

92

Goals from shots inside the box

13/39

6/39

19/78

Conversion rate

30%

14%

24%

As you can see in the table above, the Greek star almost averaged a goal every 90 minutes in the Premiership across his two seasons at the club, which speaks to how lethal he was in the final third when on the pitch.

Whilst Celtic may not be interested in a reunion with the experienced attacker, Rodgers could land his own version of Giakoumakis by swooping for one of the club’s reported transfer targets.

Celtic have interest in Scottish starlet

Last month, the Chronicle Live reported that Celtic are one of a number of clubs interested in signing Hearts centre-forward James Wilson in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The outlet claimed that Rangers and Celtic have both checked the teenage forward out, which suggests that they have sent scouts to watch the gem in action, whilst he has also played against both teams in the Premiership.

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It revealed that Premier League side Newcastle United, who are currently vying for Champions League football, are also keen on the Scotland international.

However, the Chronicle Live did not reveal how much Hearts would actually demand for the young centre-forward if a team decided to come in with a formal approach for his services.

Whilst it remains to be seen whether or not Celtic are prepared to act upon their interest in Wilson, or if they would be able to convince him to turn down Newcastle to remain in Scotland, Rodgers must push for the club to seal a deal for the attacker because he could be Giakoumakis 2.0.

Why James Wilson could be Giakoumakis 2.0

Wilson could arrive at Parkhead as the manager’s own version of the Greek sensation because he is a clinical striker who can deliver goals without starting games on a regular basis.

Giakoumakis, as aforementioned, was excellent at scoring goals consistently without being a regular starter throughout his time in the Premiership, which made him such a valuable option for Postecoglou.

Rodgers already has Maeda and Idah available to him as starting-calibre centre-forward options, and Wilson could come in as the perfect squad option to be the third-choice striker.

At the age of 18, the Scottish youngster would come in as a promising talent with plenty of time left ahead of him to develop and grow, which is why starting out as an option off the bench could be the ideal role for him at this moment in his career.

The Hearts gem, dubbed a “live wire” in training by Neil Critchley, has also shown that he can be an effective player when called upon at Premiership level, having scored five goals from 4.9 xG in the division this season.

Appearances

24

Starts

15

Goals

5

Big chances missed

4

Conversion rate

23%

Shots from inside the box

5/17

As you can see in the table above, Wilson has an impressive conversion rate of 23% in the Premiership, just shy of Giakoumakis’ 24% conversion rate in the league during his time at Celtic.

This shows that both strikers are clinical and effective forwards who can thrive without starting every single game, making them perfect squad options for the Hoops.

Aged 17 years and 288 days, Wilson became the youngest European scorer in Hearts history with a goal against Petroclub in the Conference League, and he became the youngest senior Scotland international ever at the age of 18 years and 17 days old with a cap against Greece earlier this year.

The record-breaking youngster is emerging as a hugely promising player in Scottish football, hence the links to Newcastle and Celtic, and that is why the Hoops should push to bring him to the club as their next Giakoumakis, with the potential for him to kick on even further in the future.

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