All posts by z3u9t.icu

Despite the foggy conditions causing all sorts of problems for spectators and players alike, Leeds United still managed to pick up a relatively straightforward victory over Stoke City on Boxing Day.

The 2-0 win away at the Potters sends the Whites to the very top of the Championship summit, having capitalised on Sheffield United falling to a rare defeat at home to then confidently brush aside Narcís Pelach’s lacklustre hosts.

Joel Piroe would be the difference maker on the night, as the former Swansea City man bagged both his side’s strikes with the harsh elements thankfully not getting the better of the Dutchman’s clinical nature in front of goal.

Piroe's performance in numbers

The Whites number ten does have a tendency to blow hot and cold for his promotion-chasing side, considering he hadn’t scored in his last five league outings before this brace against Stoke.

From just 32 touches of the ball, Piroe would show off a killer instinct in the forward positions that once saw him net a mightily impressive 22 Championship goals for ex-employers Swansea during the 2021/22 campaign, before then embarking on a new adventure in West Yorkshire.

Away from just being a goalscoring hero, Piroe also tallied up two key passes to try and fashion openings for his teammates, whilst further winning four duels to get stuck in and battle during what was an attritional contest at points.

Purchased towards the start of Farke’s reign at the club, the Dutchman is proving to still be a worthwhile addition, especially if his contributions up top go on to result in promotion glory finally being achieved.

But, there is another face in the Leeds ranks now that is shining even brighter than the two-goal striker, as the table-toppers have seemingly found yet another gem utilising the loan market.

Leeds' new Ben White

Once upon a time – before he became a Premier League regular at Arsenal – Ben White was a beloved loan figure at Elland Road, with the 27-year-old present for every single minute of Championship action that could come his way during Leeds’ title-winning season under Marcelo Bielsa.

Fast forward to today and Joe Rothwell will hope he’s remembered in a similarly fond light when this campaign is over and done with, as the Whites also manage to break out of the second tier again.

Stat

Rothwell

Minutes played

80

Goals scored

0

Assists

0

Touches

95

Accurate passes

78/83 (95%)

Key passes

2

Accurate crosses

2/5

Accurate long balls

5/7

Total duels won

4/5

As can be seen looking at the table above, Rothwell put in another typically composed display for his loan side, with only five misplaced passes next to his name come the full-time whistle from his 95 touches.

Much like Piroe, however, the 29-year-old also won his fair share of duels in the Stoke fog away from just stylishly going about his business, with only one duel lost from five attempted.

Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Joe Donnohue would praise Rothwell’s showing at the full-time whistle, gifting the 6 foot 1 star a high 7/10 match rating, stating that the Leeds number eight was ‘energetic’ throughout.

Leeds will hope now that their new standout loanee – in the mould of White – can keep these performances coming, having already tasted a second tier promotion success on his playing CV with parent employers AFC Bournemouth.

Of course, supporters of the West Yorkshire outfit know all too well the twists and turns this division can throw up, but if players such as Rothwell and Piroe can continue to perform to these standards, Leeds should be in and around those automatic promotion spots right up until May.

Leeds signed "Pablo Hernandez’s successor" but then sold him for 10x less

Former Leeds United sporting director Victor Orta did not do his best work on this deal.

ByDan Emery Dec 26, 2024

After 5-1 thumping of London rivals Crystal Palace was clouded by Bukayo Saka’s injury, Mikel Arteta has revealed a second Arsenal blow ahead of their next game against Ipswich Town.

Arsenal injury news

Perhaps silencing a few doubters, Arsenal were in a free-scoring mood from the off against Palace with the revived Gabriel Jesus stealing the show for the second time in a week against Palace. Scoring twice, the Brazilian has suddenly burst into life at the perfect time for the Gunners and was joined by Kai Havertz, Declan Rice and Gabriel Martinelli on the scoresheet.

Arteta must drop 5/10 Arsenal dud who won just 33% duels vs Palace

Arsenal may have won 5-1 but it wasn’t all positive for the Gunners against Crystal Palace.

ByMatt Dawson Dec 22, 2024

Arsenal’s day was far from perfect, however, with Saka limping off with what appeared to be a hamstring injury before he was then pictured leaving Selhurst Park on crutches in worrying scenes for Arteta in the middle of such a hectic schedule.

Speaking about the injury, Arteta told reporters as relayed by Fabrizio Romano: “We are pretty worried about Saka’s injury. He grabbed his hamstring and couldn’t continue. He will have to be assessed but we are pretty worried, yes.”

He’s not the only one that the Spaniard is concerned about, however. As confirmed by Arteta, Raheem Sterling has handed Arsenal another injury scare and could now miss the Ipswich game, meaning that they’ll also be without their potential replacement for Saka.

Arteta told reporters via Connor Humm: “We lost Raheem [Sterling] yesterday, we don’t know how long for as well.”

Already struggling in open play at times this season, Arsenal will have quite the battle on their hands if they’re forced to go ahead without Saka and without an ideal replacement in Sterling. That said, the latter’s injury almost sums up his struggle to make an impact since arriving on loan from Chelsea in the summer.

"Great" Sterling has struggled at Arsenal

Whilst a loan deal to sign the £163,000-a-week winger was relatively risk-free, some in North London may have believed that Sterling would have made his mark by now. The Gunners are crying out for a world-class left-winger, but it’s become clearer than ever that Sterling is no longer the player capable of providing that despite stealing the headlines for so many years in the Premier League.

With his best days arguably behind him, Sterling has started just two Premier League games with his only Arsenal goal coming in a 5-1 mauling of Bolton Wanderers. With Saka injured, an opportunity would have arguably been there for the former Manchester City star to prove any doubters wrong, only for Sterling to suffer an ill-timed blow of his own.

Among those who may have been expecting slightly more is Arteta. The Spaniard praised Sterling back in September, telling reporters as relayed by Arsenal Insider: “He looks great. First of all, because he’s got a big smile on his face, a lot of energy, he’s at it and wants to prove a point.

“When someone’s got that in his belly, you sense it straight away. Obviously I don’t need to discover anything about his quality and what he can bring to the team.”

As Aston Villa look to close the gap on the Premier League’s top four, Unai Emery could be handed a frustrating blow with Paris Saint-Germain reportedly targeting Jhon Duran and now one other Midlands star.

Aston Villa transfer news

The Villans have already been busy on the outgoings front, showing Jaden Philogene the door in a sale reportedly worth as much as £21m to fellow Premier League side Ipswich Town. The winger only completed a return to the Midlands in the summer but now leaves six months later having struggled to gain a consistent place within Emery’s side.

What that sale should allow Aston Villa to do is turn towards the transfer market themselves, which could yet see the likes of Donyell Malen arrive. The Borussia Dortmund winger has reportedly been the subject of a number of offers from the Villans and may yet arrive to sharpen their frontline in pursuit of Champions League qualification.

Aston Villa now targeting January move to sign "rapid" Mingueza alternative

The Villans have plenty of options…

ByTom Cunningham Jan 9, 2025

As one attacking talent arrives, however, two could be heading for the exit door. According to Caught Offside, PSG are now targeting a move to sign Morgan Rogers after already eyeing up Duran’s signature.

In what would be a sensational double swoop, Villa must hope that neither of their star men become tempted if the French giants come calling. The availability of Ollie Watkins in the starting role would at least cover for Duran’s exit, but the same can’t be said for Rogers.

The former Middlesbrough midfielder has risen to stardom at Villa Park to become a vital part of Emery’s side. Losing him at this stage would represent the ultimate blow.

"Fantastic" Rogers has become key man for Aston Villa

When Rogers first arrived at Villa Park this time last year, many were quick to question the hefty £15m fee that they paid out to Middlesbrough. Yet, one year later, that fee looks an absolute bargain. Emery and Villa spotted a gem who was stealing the headlines in the Championship and have not looked back since. Now, Rogers is one of their key men.

Full of praise for his midfielder after his goal and overall performance in victory over Manchester City last month, Emery told reporters as relayed by The Mirror: “Morgan played fantastic today – he is very important.

“Through him, we are getting the performance back because he links strikers with midfielders and wingers. Today, he was fantastic in the second half, connecting with strikers and scoring the goal. He has to add goals to his numbers and today he was fantastic.”

So, if PSG – or any club for that matter – come calling, Aston Villa must do everything in their power to keep hold of Rogers for years to come. Alongside Duran, he’s both the present and future of Emery’s impressive side gunning for European qualification once again in the Premier League.

Aston Villa have now made contact over the signing of an “impressive” Bundesliga star who is enjoying a fantastic season, according to a report.

Villa could be set for a busy January

There has been a lot of activity at Villa Park in the first two weeks of the January transfer window, with Unai Emery looking to strengthen his squad heading into the second half of the season.

Borussia Dortmund’s Donyell Malen recently became Emery’s first January signing, and the manager has now expressed his happiness about getting a deal done, saying: “We are excited how he can help us and these players. Hopefully we can get his best.”

In terms of outgoings, Jaden Philogene has now completed a permanent move to fellow Premier League side Ipswich Town for a fee of around £20m, which could provide the Villans with important funds to do more transfer business this month.

Aston Villa join race to sign "exciting" new £21m+ striker alongside Malen

The Villans are wasting little time…

ByTom Cunningham Jan 15, 2025

Foot Mercato has now provided an update on a player Villa are targeting, reporting they have asked for information about Mainz’s Anthony Caci, but there is set to be stiff competition for his signature. The former Strasbourg man’s passing ability has particularly caught the eye, and now a whole host of top clubs from across Europe are queuing up for his signature.

Caci is also attracting interest from the likes of Fulham, Valencia, Benfica and Borussia Dortmund, having been impressed by his performances this season, but Mainz are in a strong negotiating position, given that he is contracted until 2027.

However, if the Bundesliga side receive a big offer, they would be willing to consider a sale, indicating that a deal could be there to be done if Villa formalise their interest with an official bid.

Aston Villa’s upcoming Premier League fixtures

Date

Arsenal (a)

January 18th

West Ham United (h)

January 26th

Wolverhampton Wanderers (a)

February 1st

Ipswich Town (h)

February 15th

Chelsea (h)

February 22nd

Caci could be a versatile option for Emery

The report details that the 27-year-old has predominantly played at right-back this season, and he has clearly put in some quality performances, having been nominated for the Bundesliga Player of the Month award back in November.

The Frenchman has amassed four assists in 17 league outings, while also filling in at centre-back, as he has done many times throughout his career, showcasing his versatility by also getting regular minutes at left-back and on the flanks.

Mainz'sAnthonyCaciin action with Borussia Dortmund's Julian Ryerson

As such, the “impressive” Mainz star could be capable of pushing Matty Cash for a starting spot at right-back, but he would also be able to deputise in different positions, which could make him very useful, given that Villa set for a busy second half of the season.

The Villans are yet to make a formal offer for Caci, but it is promising news they have now made contact over a deal, positioning themselves to potentially make a move during the final two weeks of the January transfer window.

Liverpool are now keen on signing a “dominant” defender, with Arne Slot identifying the need for a new left-footed option at the back, according to a report.

Liverpool keen to strengthen in multiple positions

Given that Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk are set to leave at the end of the season as things stand, it is vital the Reds are proactive in the transfer market, and they have identified a range of targets in a number of positions.

With Trent to Real Madrid still very much on the cards, Joshua Kimmich is on the shortlist, and contact has been made with Bayern Munich to discuss a deal, while Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz has been picked out as a potential Salah replacement.

Slot is not light on options at centre-back, although Ibrahima Konate has struggled with injuries this season, but the manager remains interested in bringing in more bodies in defence.

Liverpool now leading race for "unpredictable" £10m forward who Slot loves

The Reds are in close contact with the 22-year-old’s entourage.

ByDominic Lund Jan 22, 2025

That is according to a report from Rousing The Kop, which has revealed Liverpool are great admirers of Nottingham Forest defender Murillo, who has just put pen to paper on a new contract at the City Ground.

Although the centre-back has just signed a new deal, which puts Forest in a strong negotiating position, they would be willing to sanction his departure if they receive an £80m+ offer in the summer.

Real Madrid and Barcelona are also keen on the defender, who is likely to move to one of Europe’s top clubs when he leaves the Tricky Trees, although Barca’s financial troubles leave the path clear for Florentino Perez to compete with Liverpool.

With Slot keen on a left-footed defender, Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite and Chelsea’s Levi Colwill are also of interest, and club chiefs still believe that a deal for the former could be possible.

Murillo impressing at the City Ground

Forest have defied all expectations to push for the Champions League spots this season, and the Brazilian has played a key role in their successful campaign, averaging a WhoScored match rating of 7.07 in the Premier League, amongst the highest in the squad.

The 22-year-old also impressed in his debut season in the Premier League last year, receiving high praise for his tackling and dribbling ability from scout Ben Mattinson.

That said, an asking price of over £80m is very high, considering the Forest star is still yet to prove himself at the top level over a sustained period of time. As such, Liverpool should try to negotiate a deal for a lower fee, particularly if Van Dijk commits to a new deal and there isn’t a pressing need to sign a new centre-back.

Following Trevoh Chalobah’s return to Chelsea, Crystal Palace are now reportedly plotting a complicated deal to sign a replacement before the end of the January transfer window.

Crystal Palace transfer news

The Eagles have rediscovered their best form under Oliver Glasner in recent weeks, but have undoubtedly been dealt a blow by Chelsea’s decision to recall Chalobah. Leaving them short on central defenders, those at Selhurst Park must turn towards the transfer window where they could find their second reinforcement after already welcoming Romain Esse earlier this month.

The rumours have certainly been coming thick and fast as the window comes to a close too, with names such as Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain threatening to steal the headlines as he potentially seeks a return to the Premier League.

Alongside Esse, the former Liverpool man would undoubtedly add an extra spark to Glasner’s attack behind the clinical Jean-Philippe Mateta. Whether the Eagles swoop in and win the race to sign the Champions League winner remains to be seen, however.

First and foremost, the priority in South London may well be the welcome a central defender to replace Chalobah in the coming days.

According to BBC Sport’s Alex Howell, Crystal Palace are now plotting a deal to sign Tiago Djalo before Monday’s deadline, but could face a complicated move given that Juventus would need to recall their defender from his loan spell at Porto.

Crystal Palace now on red alert in race to sign "fantastic" PL midfielder

He’s been in impressive form recently…

ByTom Cunningham Jan 31, 2025

The 24-year-old has already enjoyed quite the journey around European football, swapping Sporting Club’s youth side for AC Milan’s before joining LOSC Lille and earning a move to Juventus. Now, following a mixed spell at Porto, Djalo could be on his way to Crystal Palace and the Premier League.

There’s certainly a lot of work to be done to complete any potential deal though and there’s no denying that all parties face a race against what is a rapidly ticking clock.

"Amazing" Djalo can replace Chalobah

A player who should only just be entering his peak years at 24 years old, Djalo has already gained some impressive experience around Europe’s top leagues – experience that Palace could now benefit from. Replacing Chalobah this late on will, of course, be no easy task either which makes their chase to sign the Juventus defender all the more worthwhile.

Throughout his rise, Djalo has earned plenty of praise from the likes of football talent scout Jacek Kulig, who described the central defender’s performance against Kylian Mbappe and Paris Saint-Germain as “amazing” as a young talent.

Three years on from that performance, Djalo’s rise has stalled somewhat after a frustrating loan spell at Porto which could yet see Palace play the role of heroes and come swooping in to revive the central defender.

Journalist Miguel Delaney reports that Everton have tabled a £15m bid for an “unbelievable” player on deadline day, also revealing the response.

Everton transfer news

An air of positivity has returned to Goodison Park, with David Moyes doing a great job since returning to the club, picking up a superb 4-0 win at home to Leicester City in the Premier League last Saturday.

Everton have been linked with some late moves in the January transfer window, in order to give them added depth, not least in attacking areas. Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has struggled for playing time this season, due to the imperious form of Chris Wood, and the Merseysiders have reportedly been attempting to bring him to the club.

Lyon winger Ernest Nuamah has also been backed to seal a move to the Blues before deadline day, but time is now running out to get a deal over the line for the exciting 21-year-old.

Defenders have been mentioned as potential options for Everton, too, including Rennes left-back Adrien Truffert, with a loan move until the end of the season mooted. The 23-year-old has scored one goal in Ligue 1 this season, also averaging 1.6 tackles per game.

Everton bid £15m for "unbelievable" player

According to The Independent‘s Delaney on X, Everton have seen a £15m bid for Tom Fellows rejected by West Brom on deadline day, and there is now “likely to be competition from Brentford and Southampton” in the summer transfer window.

To miss out on the 21-year-old is an obvious blow for the Blues, considering he has been lauded by Baggies teammate Karlan Grant this season: “He’s an unbelievable young player. As soon as he does that step-over, I know the ball’s going to be arriving at the back stick and there’s going to be chances.

“I wasn’t here last year, when he played a lot. But he’s very grounded. And I’m learning quickly what to expect from him. If the defender wants to show him inside he’s going to take the opportunity. But he has that sharpness about him that no-one can read him.”

Fellows is enjoying an impressive campaign in a West Brom shirt, proving to be one of the creative hubs of his team, registering 10 assists in the Championship in 2024/25 to date.

Appearances

30

Starts

26

Minutes played

2067

Goals

2

Assists

10

Key passes per game

1.3

Shots per game

1.1

Dribbles per game

1.1

Understandably, the Baggies are clearly hesitant to lose such an important player midway through the season and without time to find a replacement, as they look to secure promotion from the Championship back to the Premier League.

Better than Beto: Everton could seal D-day swoop for £18m "monster"

David Moyes’ Everton are in the hunt for a new centre-forward before tonight’s deadline.

ByAngus Sinclair Feb 3, 2025

A summer bid for Fellows now feels like the next-best option for the Blues, at which point West Brom may consider the idea of accepting an offer for one of their most prized assets.

Amid all of their success on the transfer front in the January window, Aston Villa did miss out on one particular midfield target who they’ve already reportedly set their sights on ahead of the summer.

Aston Villa transfer news

In pursuit of the Premier League’s top four, Aston Villa were in no mood to waste any time during the winter window. Showing the door to Diego Carlos and selling Jhon Duran for a much-needed hefty fee, the Midlands club instantly turned their attention towards welcoming Marcus Rashford, Marco Asensio and Axel Disasi on loan for the remainder of the campaign.

Crucially, there is still plenty left to spend in the summer from that Duran deal which should ease Villa’s profit and sustainability concerns and allow them to reinforce Unai Emery’s squad on a permanent basis.

As for right now, Rashford, Disasi and Asensio don’t exactly represent poor business – particularly on loan. Rashford, especially, is one to watch.

After being cast aside by Ruben Amorim at Manchester United, the forward desperately needed a move and got just that in the dying embers. Now, it’s Villa who could benefit from getting him back to his best to hand themselves one of the most dangerous wingers in the Premier League.

Aston Villa also face battle to keep hold of "terrific" talent with Watkins

Arsenal are involved again…

ByTom Cunningham Feb 7, 2025

Looking ahead to the summer, meanwhile, those in the Midlands could look to spend their Duran money. According to The Boot Room, Aston Villa are now plotting a summer move to sign Alex Baena from Villarreal, having already spoken to the midfielder in the January transfer window before failing to reach an agreement with his club.

The 23-year-old would undoubtedly provide Emery with the long-term solution that a loan move for Rashford won’t provide at this stage. Given that Villa have already spoken to the Spaniard once, they will hope that it’s second time the charm when the summer arrives.

"Revelation" Baena is better than ever

Aston Villa’s reported interest is certainly arriving at the perfect time for Baena, who has been in better form than ever in the current campaign. At just 23 years old, this may just be the start too, meaning that the Villans should act sooner rather than later to secure his signature and welcome a permanent solution on Emery’s left-hand side.

Dubbed a “revelation” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig in 2022, the Spaniard has only improved even further since then – scoring five goals and assisting another five in 20 La Liga games so far this season.

As Baena has thrived, Emery has experimented with a number of players on the left-hand side of his sytem with all failing to hit the same heights whether it’s been Jacob Ramsey or the likes of John McGinn. And although Rashford may momentarily solve that issue, Baena should be Villa’s long-term target.

Liverpool took a huge step towards claiming the Premier League title this afternoon, beating defending champions Manchester City 2-0 at the Etihad.

Goals from Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai secured all three points for Arne Slot’s side, claiming their first victory against the Citizens on their home turf in a decade.

The victory moves the Reds 11 points clear of second-placed Arsenal, with just 11 games remaining, looking in a superb place to secure a first title in five years.

It would be a phenomenal achievement by the Dutchman after taking the reins in the summer, providing the perfect transition after Jürgen Klopp stepped away from the role.

Numerous players impressed in Manchester during the victory, playing a pivotal role in moving the side one step closer to bringing the title back to Anfield.

Liverpool’s star performers against Man City

Egyptian winger Salah provided the goods for Liverpool once again this afternoon, getting himself on the scoresheet for the 25th time in just 27 matches.

The 32-year-old also registered an assist for their second goal, making it the 11th game in the league throughout 2024/25 in which he had achieved such a feat.

In a game where Slot’s men only had 34% of the ball, it was pivotal that the backline resisted the pressure from the hosts, something which played perfectly into the hands of Virgil van Dijk.

The Dutchman made nine clearances, eight of which were with his head, winning 75% of the ground duels he entered – maintaining a clean sheet for the 11th time this campaign.

However, despite the performances of the aforementioned duo, one other first-team star produced a magnificent display in the North West, massively boosting their title credentials.

Performance in Numbers

Want data and stats? Football FanCast's Performance in Numbers series provides you with the latest match analysis from across Europe.

The Liverpool player who may have just won them the title

For the clash against Pep Guardiola’s side, Slot produced a tactical masterclass that saw the Reds switch to a 4-2-4 system, operating without a recognised striker despite having Darwin Núñez and Cody Gakpo on the bench.

It allowed for two false nines to drop into a deeper role along with the two central midfielders, creating a four-man box system in the middle – subsequently outnumbering the hosts in the centre of the park.

Curtis Jones was one of the players who operated in the aforementioned role, along with Szoboszlai – with the latter producing a performance to remember at the Etihad.

Despite the slightly unfamiliar role, the Hungarian international starred throughout, registering a goal and an assist during the victory, linking up excellently with Salah in the final third.

However, his underlying stats were just as impressive, with his numbers undoubtedly edging the side ever closer to ending their five-season wait for a Premier League title.

The 24-year-old, whose display was dubbed “sensational” by journalist Lewis Steele, registered 37 touches during the victory, four of which came in the opposition box, including his strike to double the lead.

Minutes played

90

Touches

37

Goals & assists

2

Dribbles completed

1/1 (100%)

Shots taken

3

Tackles won

2/2 (100%)

Recoveries made

3

Szoboszlai completed 100% of the dribbles he attempted, registering two other efforts on goal, in what was an all-around quality performance within attacking areas.

However, despite his impressive attacking display, he also produced some phenomenal defensive numbers, winning 100% of the tackles he entered, making three recoveries and excelling in the false nine role.

As a result of his showing, Szoboszlai was handed an 8/10 match rating by The Express’ Archie Griggs, further highlighting his impressive showing against the defending champions.

It was a phenomenal showing from the Reds, one that could well prove to be the clincher in their title ambitions come the end of the season.

Salah and Szoboszlai were undoubtedly the two stars at the Etihad, inflicting yet more pain on Guardiola, whilst further showcasing what a superb side Slot has built in a short period of time.

Signed by Klopp: Liverpool hit gold on “world-class” star worth 4900% more

This rising talent could be a future superstar for Arne Slot’s side.

ByAngus Sinclair Feb 22, 2025

Turning their attention towards rising stars yet again, Chelsea have reportedly made contact in the race to seal a double swoop to sign a 17-year-old talent alongside a young midfielder.

Chelsea transfer news

It’s a rare day when the Blues aren’t in the transfer headlines and about to splash the cash. So far, however, spending that money under Todd Boehly is yet to take them back to the top of English football. But the American will persist with his transfer strategy nonetheless, with the focus set on finding the next generation of impressive stars.

It’s a strategy which has seen the likes of Aaron Anselmino and Marc Guiu arrive in the last year and one which is likely to see further young players make their way to Stamford Bridge. Currently tasked with putting a winning squad together using those talents, meanwhile, is Enzo Maresca who at least got his side back to winning ways over Southampton last time out.

When the summer arrives, the Italian is likely to receive even more backing in the form of rising stars, which could yet include two Greek talents in the coming months.

According to The Boot Room, Chelsea have now made contact to seal a double deal for Christos Mouzakitis and Charalampos Kostoulas this summer. The two teenagers have impressed at Olympiacos to create a line of top suitors ahead of the summer transfer window.

Chelsea leading race to sign "superb" £37m star keen on Premier League move

The Blues could sign yet another winger…

ByTom Cunningham Feb 28, 2025

Joined by Chelsea, Nottingham Forest, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are among some of Europe’s top clubs already setting their sights on Kostoulas and Mouzakitis – igniting quite the race for their signatures.

Mouzakitis, an 18-year-old midfielder, and Kostoulas, a 17-year-old striker, look set to have quite the decision to make when the summer transfer window swings open and those clubs potentially come calling.

Mouzakitis and Kostoulas are on the rise

It says an incredible amount about just how talented Mouzakitis and Kostoulas are that such a hectic line is already forming in pursuit of their signatures. It’s a line that Chelsea – among others – will be desperate to win in the coming months as they look to welcome two more young gems to add to a growing collection.

Both players have already been making their mark on senior football this season, even featuring for Olympiacos in the Europa League with Mouzakitis earning the praise of analyst Ben Mattinson for his “powerful” ball-striking and “tenacious” work off the ball. Now, there’s every chance that the teenager becomes the future of Chelsea’s midfield.

Kostoulas, meanwhile, has been quite the sensation himself – scoring six goals for the senior side in just 20 league appearances.