All posts by z3u9t.icu

Tottenham Hotspur are a club who have endured success in recent times, something which the supporters have been starved of in the last two decades.

The Lilywhites were on a 17-year drought without any form of silverware, but that all changed at the end of 2024/25, after winning the Europa League under Ange Postecoglou.

However, it wasn’t enough to maintain his job, leading to Thomas Frank being appointed as the man to try and build on the recent levels reached by the Lilywhites.

The Dane has numerous years of experience in the Premier League, something which will massively help him in his quest for success during his spell in North London.

He will undoubtedly want to make his own mark on the current first team squad, with the style of play that saw him be a hit at Brentford, but will also need reinforcements if he is to reach the next level in his managerial career.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Over the last couple of days, João Palhinha has emerged as the latest player who appears to be making a move to join Spurs during the current transfer window.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed yesterday that a deal has been agreed for the 30-year-old to join the club on an initial loan deal, with the deal having an option to buy for around £25m next summer.

However, he’s not the only star currently in their sights, with Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi still firmly on their radar, according to one Spanish outlet.

They claim that despite missing out on him in previous windows, the Lilywhites are set to meet his current asking price of around £50m, with the centre-back only having a year left on his deal.

The report also states that Newcastle United are also willing to match his asking price, which could see a battle for the 25-year-old take place in the coming weeks.

Why Spurs’ £50m target would be perfect for Palhinha

As previously mentioned, Spurs are set to complete a deal for Palhinha in the coming days, a deal that could prove to be an excellent piece of business from Frank and the board.

Whilst the Portuguese international only made six league starts last season, he still managed to produce some impressive numbers, many of which would bolster the club’s ambitions for success.

He won 1.9 tackles per 90 in the Bundesliga – a tally which put him in the top 2% of all players in the division, handing Frank a needed ball-winner at the heart of his side.

Palhinha also thrived with the ball at his feet, registering 6.3 passes into the final third per 90, achieving a 92% pass completion rate, having the tools to star in and out of possession.

If he is to be a success in North London, he will need other reinforcements in his quest to impress, potentially opening the door to a move to sign Guehi this summer.

Whilst the Englishman is a defender and his primary role is to stop the ball from entering the goal, he also has the responsibility to build up play from the back and allow the former Fulham star to prove his worth after his own move.

The Palace captain completed 84% of the passes he attempted, with a tally of 3.9 of his passes being progressive, subsequently being able to break the lines and find Palhinha in pockets of space.

Games played

34

Goals & assists

5

Pass accuracy

84%

Progressive passes

3.9

Key passes made

0.5

Tackles won

1.8

% of tackles won

66%

Blocks made

1.6

Clearances made

4.8

Aerial success rate

54%

However, Guehi, who’s been labelled “exceptional” by former goalkeeper Joe Hart, also dominated out of possession, winning 1.8 tackles per 90, and winning 52% of the aerial battles he entered.

His tally of 66% of tackles won in England’s top-flight also ranks him in the top 10% of all defenders in the division, offering key depth and quality to Frank’s side next season.

If he can transfer such skills across the capital this summer, a deal for Guehi would be another huge statement made by the hierarchy in their attempts to build on their European triumph.

He has all the tools to link up with Palhinha in possession, whilst both players could hand the Lilywhites would be gaining two defensively solid players who can help improve their record at the back, which saw them ship 65 league goals in 2024/25.

Frank's very own Mbappe: Spurs in talks for "one of the most prolific" CFs

Tottenham Hotspur look set to make a move for a star who could thrive like Kylian Mbappe.

ByEthan Lamb Aug 1, 2025

Nottingham Forest’s summer rebuild shows no signs of slowing down.

After manager Nuno Espírito Santo voiced concerns about the lack of movement, the club has roared into action with a series of ambitious signings and bids that underline their intent to become a consistent European competitor.

Dan Ndoye, Igor Jesus, and Jair Cunha have all already arrived at the City Ground, while bids have been accepted for James McAtee and Omari Hutchinson.

Meanwhile, a £25m approach for Manchester City’s Rico Lewis has been rejected, and negotiations continue for forward Arnaud Kalimuendo.

The flurry of activity comes at a crucial time. Forest are preparing for a season that includes European football, a reward earned after finishing seventh in the Premier League last term.

Their place in the Europa League was secured after Crystal Palace were demoted to the Conference League following an unsuccessful appeal to CAS.

Forest kick off their domestic campaign against Brentford on Sunday, and while the opening fixture might come too soon for several of their potential recruits, the scale of their ambition is clear.

Nottingham Forest agree terms with midfielde

At the heart of Forest’s latest negotiations is Douglas Luiz, the Juventus midfielder who could form a partnership with Elliott Anderson in the centre of the park.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Forest have agreed personal terms with the Brazil, with only club-to-club negotiations left to finalise, as they look to bolster their midfield with a new addition.

It is now down to the Tricky Trees to agree a deal with Juventus to bring the former Aston Villa maestro to the City Ground for the 2025/26 campaign.

Analyst Ben Mattinson described him as a “box-crashing 8, who’s press resistant with a good technical base, passing range and ball-striking ability.”

The Brazilian joined Juventus from Aston Villa in a £45m deal but endured a difficult spell in Turin.

He failed to score or assist in 27 appearances and missed 20 games due to injury setbacks.

Used sparingly under both Igor Tudor and Thiago Motta, Luiz managed only six starts last season, while his solitary contribution at the Club World Cup amounted to just 45 minutes of football, per Sofascore.

Juventus are now open to recouping around £30m, with the player himself reportedly eager for a Premier League return.

Why Douglas Luiz is perfect for Elliot Anderson

Despite a subdued stint in Italy, Luiz’s pedigree remains strong, particularly when judged on his final season at Aston Villa.

His statistics then underlined his all-round game.

Pass Completion Rate

85.7%

Shot Creating Actions per 90

3.92

Tackles per 90

1.74

Blocks per 90

0.96

Progressive Passes per 90

5.49

Progressive Carries per 90

2.15

Successful Take-ons per 90

1.40

When compared against Juventus teammates last season, Luiz still showed flashes of quality despite limited minutes.

His 89.5% passing accuracy ranked fifth in the squad, while his 72.2% dribble success rate also placed him among the top five. In 841 minutes of action, he created three big chances and averaged 0.69 key passes per game, per FBref.

These numbers suggest that, given consistent playing time and a role tailored to his strengths, he could rediscover the form that made him such a prized asset in England.

For Forest fans, the prospect of pairing Luiz with Elliott Anderson is particularly enticing. Anderson joined from Newcastle United amid the Magpies’ well-documented struggles with PSR compliance in a deal worth £35m.

The transfer also saw goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos move the other way, while Yankuba Minteh left for Brighton to help balance the books at St James’ Park.

Anderson wasted no time making himself indispensable in Nottingham. He featured in 37 league games last season, contributing two goals and six assists,

His energy, versatility and ability to progress play made him a key part of the side that finished seventh on 65 points. Still only 22, he has caught the eye of England selectors and sits on the periphery of Thomas Tuchel’s squad in a World Cup year.

Statistically, Anderson has placed himself among the most effective midfielders in the Premier League across a range of important metrics.

His dribbling stands out, with the 22-year-old ranking in the 90th percentile for successful take-ons, averaging 1.19 per 90 minutes.

That ability to beat a man allows Forest to break opposition lines and progress play higher up the pitch.

He is equally influential in advanced areas, registering 2.38 touches in the attacking penalty area per 90, placing him in the 86th percentile league-wide. This shows how frequently he arrives in dangerous positions, complementing Forest’s forwards by adding an extra threat from midfield.

Defensively, Anderson is just as impressive. He averages 3.04 tackles per 90 minutes – enough to place him in the 88th percentile.

Alongside that, his reading of the game allows him to contribute 2.51 clearances per 90 (89th percentile), a figure that highlights his commitment to the defensive side of the game.

Perhaps most strikingly, Anderson has proven adept in the air. Despite standing at just 1.79m, he wins 1.85 aerial duels per 90, again ranking in the 89th percentile.

Pairing Luiz and Anderson could provide Forest with one of the most balanced midfields outside the Premier League’s traditional elite.

Luiz’s ability to dictate tempo, switch play and resist pressure would allow Anderson to thrive in more advanced areas, where his dribbling, pressing and box arrivals make him a constant threat.

In European fixtures, where possession and control become even more valuable, the partnership could give Forest an edge. Luiz’s Champions League and international experience adds another layer of quality and leadership.

For Anderson, lining up alongside such a seasoned professional would accelerate his development and give Forest a stable core around which to build. If Forest can finalise the deal with Juventus, it would represent a major coup.

Dream for McAtee: Nottingham Forest open talks to sign “world-class” talent

Nottingham Forest are planning for a resounding finish to their summer transfer window.

ByAngus Sinclair Aug 15, 2025

Everton are also credited with an interest in Luiz, but Forest’s project – European football, an ambitious recruitment drive, and a manager eager to impose his identity – may prove more persuasive.

For Nuno Espírito Santo, adding Luiz to a midfield already anchored by Anderson could be the key to competing on two fronts this season.

For Forest supporters, it would be further proof that their club is no longer content with merely surviving in the Premier League.

Manchester United have suffered one of their most humiliating losses in the club’s history after being knocked out of the League Cup by League Two side Grimsby Town.

Ruben Amorim’s team were playing in the second round of the competition for the first time in 11 years but just about took the Mariners to penalties after recovering from 2-0 down in the first half.

However, £65m summer signing Bryan Mbeumo missed from the spot and goalkeeper Andre Onana struggled in goal as Grimsby ran out 12-11 winners on penalties.

Following Sir Alex Ferguson’s Old Trafford departure in 2013, the defeat to Grimsby has to be the most embarrassing for Man Utd. But this isn’t a one off, with the Red Devils suffering some heavy and humiliating losses since 2013 under numerous managers.

Man Utd’s most embarrassing defeats since Sir Alex Ferguson left 11 Man City 4-1 Man Utd 2013/14

David Moyes was the man to replace Ferguson, and in October 2013, led his Man Utd side in the first Manchester derby at the Etihad.

However, the Red Devils, who were the defending champions, found themselves 4-0 down in 50 minutes and began the shift in power in Manchester.

10 MK Dons 4-0 Manchester United 2014/15

MK Dons hadn’t been founded the last time United played in the second round of the League Cup in 2014, but the League One side hammered Louis van Gaal’s side 4-0.

Two goals from Will Grigg put the third-tier side on their way, before Arsenal loanee Benik Afobe rounded things off late on with a brace of his own.

9 Everton 4-0 Manchester United 2018/19

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and United were looking to finish in the top four when they travelled to Goodison Park to take on Everton in April in 2019.

However, the Red Devils failed to turn up, registering just one shot on target as they were outclassed by the Toffees, who went 4-0 up just after the hour mark. United would fail to qualify for the Champions League that season.

8 Manchester United 1-6 Tottenham 2020/21

Luckily for Man Utd and Solskjaer, the 6-1 defeat to Tottenham in October 2020 was played behind closed doors.

It was Jose Mourinho who came back to haunt the Red Devils, who conceded six at Old Trafford for just the second time in the Premier League. Spurs were 4-1 up at half time after Bruno Fernandes put United in front, and Tottenham coasted to victory as Mourinho got his revenge on United.

7 Manchester United 0-5 Liverpool 2021/22

A year on from a heavy defeat to Tottenham, Old Trafford was packed as Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool humiliated Solskjaer and Man Utd.

Mohamed Salah was the star of the show with a hat-trick for the visitors, with Naby Keita and Diogo Jota also getting on the scoresheet. Unfortunately for the Red Devils, though, things would only get worse against Liverpool.

6 Watford 4-1 Manchester United 2021/22

A heavy defeat at Vicarage Road against relegation-threatened Watford proved to be the final straw for Solskjaer as Man Utd manager in November 2021.

The Hornets, who would pick jump just 23 points all season and finish 19th, ran out comfortable winners, with captain Harry Maguire being shown a red card to cap things off for the Red Devils. Solskjaer left the club the following day.

5 Brighton 4-0 Manchester United 2021/22

Ralf Rangnick took interim charge of Man Utd following Solskjaer’s Old Trafford departure, but he had seen enough by the time his side were hammered by Brighton in May 2022.

Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella, Pascal Gross and Leandro Trossard were the goalscorers for the Seagulls on the day to end United’s slim chances of Champions League qualification.

4 Brentford 4-0 Manchester United 2022/23

With Erik ten Hag the new man in charge at Old Trafford, there was plenty of positivity in the summer of 2022.

However, that quickly evaporated as Brentford stunned the Red Devils by scoring four goals in the first half, even with Cristiano Ronaldo in the starting line-up.

It was also United’s seventh loss in a row away from home, their worst run since 1936, although that wasn’t Ten Hag’s fault.

3 Sevilla 3-0 Manchester United 2022/23

Heading into the second leg of the Europa League quarter-finals level at 2-2, United failed to show up in Spain as Sevilla ran riot with a 3-0 win after two goals from Youssef En-Nesyri and one from defender Loic Bade.

Errors at the back from Maguire and David de Gea, with nothing going forward, Ten Hag’s side exited Europe with a whimper.

2 Liverpool 7-0 Manchester United 2022/23

Man Utd’s worst ever result in the Premier League came at Anfield in March 2023, with Liverpool recording the biggest win in the history of the fixture between the two rivals.

Cody Gakpo broke the deadlock just before half time and Klopp’s side ran riot in the second half, scoring six times with braces from Gakpo, Darwin Nunez, Salah and one from Roberto Firmino.

It was the first time in over 90 years that Man Utd had conceded seven goals in a single match, with Ten Hag the manager in charge.

It is remarkable just how quickly the sentiment around a football club can change, and West Ham United are the perfect example.

Just a week ago, it felt like the Hammers’ world was caving in, as two Premier League defeats in a row and a lack of transfer activity allowed talk of relegation to emerge.

However, a thumping win away to Nottingham Forest and some brilliant deals late in the window have given fans real cause for optimism.

One of Graham Potter’s most exciting new additions is Mateus Fernandes, although even with his lofty price tag, there is a player already in the squad who’s worth millions more.

Fernandes and West Ham's best signings

There are still most certainly holes in the squad, and players who probably should have been moved on, but all in all, West Ham ended up having a pretty good summer transfer window.

Transfer Focus

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

It may have started in a frustratingly slow fashion, but the Hammers have made several exciting and intriguing additions to the squad.

For example, picking up the Premier League-proven and versatile Kyle Walker-Peters is excellent business, and despite only making three appearances thus far, he has already picked up an assist.

Likewise, while there were plenty of people unhappy or worried about the decision to sign the injury-prone Callum Wilson on a one-year deal, his goal against Forest proved he still has the ability to be a useful option this year.

Yet, the three most exciting signings are undoubtedly El Hadji Malick Diouf, who already has two assists to his name, the “elegant” Soungoutou Magassa, as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, and Fernandes, who made his first start on Sunday.

The Olhão-born star cost the club around £40m, and while that is undoubtedly a lot of money for a 21-year-old, he managed to rack up nine goal involvements for a terrible Southampton side last season.

Moreover, while it will likely take time for him to truly settle into the side, he will be afforded it thanks to some of the other offensive stars in the squad, including one who is worth even more than him.

The West Ham star worth millions more than Fernandes

While they didn’t necessarily show it in their first three games of the season, West Ham have a handful of really quite talented players in their squad now.

Yet, when it comes to their most important player – the one who gets fans on their feet, puts fear in the hearts of opposition defenders, and can win games by himself – there is a name that stands out above the rest: Jarrod Bowen.

Since joining the Hammers in January 2020, under former manager David Moyes, the Englishman has been a leading light for the club, and his valuation reflects this.

For example, the CIES Football Observatory now value him at up to €55m, which converts to about £48m, or around £8m more than Fernandes cost.

However, you could easily argue that the former Hull City star should be worth even more, as, over the years, he has become a lean, mean, output machine for the Irons.

So far, the 28-year-old has scored 75 goals and provided 52 assists for the East Londoners in 242 appearances, totalling 19251 minutes.

Appearances

242

Minutes

19251′

Goals

75

Assists

52

Goal Involvements per Match

0.52

Minutes per Goal Involvement

151.58′

Points per Game

1.47

In other words, the attacking dynamo has averaged a goal involvement every 1.90 games, or every 151.58 minutes.

Those sorts of numbers would be seriously impressive in a team challenging at the very top of the table, but they’re made all the more remarkable considering how much West Ham have struggled over the years.

Finally, on top of putting the ball in the back of the net, the Leominster-born monster has become a talismanic figure for the club, as, unlike some of his prior teammates, he has remained loyal and, as former professional turned pundit Michael Brown puts it, been a “real leader.”

Ultimately, it’s been a good summer of business for West Ham this year, but their most crucial player remains Bowen.

Better than Igor: West Ham make last-gasp approach to sign "incredible" CB

West Ham United have made a move for another defender despite links to Igor Julio.

ByEthan Lamb Sep 1, 2025

Liverpool are now believed to be “confident” of completing the signing of an England international next summer, in what would be a “huge coup” for them.

Slot's explains decision to replace Kerkez

The Reds secured a priceless late 1-0 win away to Burnley in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, eventually grinding down their opponents thanks to a Mohamed Salah penalty deep into stoppage time.

Numerous Liverpool players struggled to hit top form, not least Milos Kerkez, who was replaced before half-time, but Arne Slot has discussed his decision to bring on Andy Robertson in place of him.

“Not only the yellow card but also that afterwards he played the ball, no foul at all, but the referee blew his whistle, which can always happen because this happens in football. But the reaction of the fans and I also saw players of them also trying to go to the referee [saying], ‘If you think this is a foul, maybe you should give a yellow for it.’

“Which would have been ridiculous of course, but then it is a risk. The only way we could lose this game is if we are down to 10 because with 11 v 11 we could have drawn it, but we could never have lost it because they have never been… in our 18-yard box. So, then the only way you can lose it is if we go down to 10 and I didn’t want to take that risk, which was hard for Milos because normally you don’t have to take a player off if he has a yellow before, but I felt this was the best choice to make.”

Away from the on-pitch action for Liverpool, a significant new transfer claim has emerged, as the Reds continue to eye new signings.

Liverpool "confident" of signing England ace

Speaking to Football Insider, journalist Pete O’Rourke said that Liverpool remain “confident” of signing Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi next summer, having failed to snap him up on deadline day.

“If Guehi does run down his contract and become a free agent, it could be an open race for him. It will depend on who offers him the best deal, and Liverpool right now are still confident that they can land Guehi if he explores his options as a free agent.

“It does seem Liverpool will wait until next summer to try and push through a deal for Guehi having come so close to signing him in the summer before the deal fell through.

“There are clubs across Europe looking at Guehi because the chance to sign a proven Premier League player and England international on a free would be a huge coup. It’s an open race as things stand, but Liverpool have done some of the hard work already, and they hope that will give them the edge to get a deal over the line.”

Missing out on Guehi was such a big blow for Liverpool, leaving them short of depth at centre-back, but he should still be considered their priority defensive signing heading into 2026.

The Palace and England ace is such an impressive figure, both on and off the pitch, and he possesses the quality on the ball, calm out of possession and leadership to be a fantastic addition for the Reds, completing 93.6% of his passes for the Three Lions in World Cup qualifying.

As bad as Wirtz: Slot must drop 4/10 Liverpool flop who lost 100% duels

Arne Slot could now have to axe this Liverpool underperformer after a disastrous display away at Burnley.

1 ByKelan Sarson Sep 14, 2025

Hopefully, the “sensational” Guehi still sees Liverpool as his preferred choice when next summer rolls around, ignoring potential interest from some other huge clubs in the process.

Even after winning four games from four in the Premier League, there’s still a number of problems that Liverpool have to solve and one star has just clapped back at fans with one issue that he has.

Liverpool unbeaten but unconvincing

Some will say it’s the sign of champions, others will claim that it’s unsustainable. Arne Slot’s verdict will be that the best is yet to come from his side, who have needed four late winners to keep the only 100% record still going in the Premier League.

It was unexpected heroes Federico Chiesa and Rio Ngumoha against Bournemouth and Newcastle United and then it was Dominik Szoboszlai’s spectacular free-kick which sealed all three points against title rivals Arsenal. The trip to Burnley, meanwhile, was billed as routine before proving to be anything but. This time it was Mohamed Salah who stepped up to score late on from the spot.

Whilst the Reds struggled to break Burnley down going forward, there’s no denying that they were once again imperious defensively. Although the Clarets handed them a simple job, both Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate deserve praise for how they took full control.

Gary Neville’s incredible Salah claim from 2019 has come back to haunt him

He has had a shocker with this one.

ByHenry Jackson Sep 16, 2025

Konate, in particular, has been back to his best in recent displays following a tough opening to the campaign. It’s the type of form that may quiet down any talk about his contract and he’s now hit back at fans with the “problem” that he has.

Konate hits back at Liverpool fans after recent form

With his poor form coinciding with his contract saga in games against Bournemouth and Newcastle, Konate received his fair share of criticism. Since then, however, he has been as dominant as ever and has earned praise as a result.

Feeling how quickly the mood of fans can change, Konate hit back on social media, responding to a Liverpool fan page by saying: “The problem is some of you forget to quick. Only after 2 games.”

Dubbed “tremendous” by Micah Richards last season, there’s no debate that Konate is one of the best defenders in the Premier League and someone that Liverpool must do everything to keep.

As things stand, with less than 12 months remaining on his current deal, the Reds are facing a Trent Alexander-Arnold repeat as Real Madrid continue to sniff around. The last thing that Anfield chiefs need is for another star man to jump ship on a free deal.

Newcastle United’s Premier League campaign has started with more frustration than fluidity.

A goalless draw with Aston Villa on opening day saw Eddie Howe’s side look the more dangerous outfit, but they lacked the cutting edge to secure three points.

Stalemates against Leeds and Bournemouth then further highlighted the side’s lack of rhythm in the final third. Against Leeds, Newcastle were wasteful despite moments of control, and at Bournemouth, Howe’s decision to trial a more defensive 3-4-2-1 setup blunted their attacking potential even further.

The Magpies have generated just 4.6 expected goals (xG) across their first five league fixtures – a figure better only than the three promoted sides, Wolves, and Aston Villa.

The midweek 4-1 win against Bradford City in the Carabao Cup was a welcome tonic, with a strong XI fielded to sharpen patterns in attack.

Yet with a Champions League trip to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise before facing Arsenal on Sunday, Howe must find a way to get more out of his new-look attack.

The question is whether his summer signing in attack, Nick Woltemade, can be trusted to lead the line consistently so early in his Premier League career.

Why Woltemade needs time to adapt

Newcastle made a statement when they secured Nick Woltemade this summer, fending off Bayern Munich, who had three bids rejected for the striker.

Standing at 1.98m and fresh from a 12-goal Bundesliga season with Werder Bremen, Woltemade brings a blend of aerial presence and technical quality.

He also impressed for Germany at the U21 Euros and earned senior caps in recent international fixtures, including an assist in the 3-1 victory over Northern Ireland.

He introduced himself to the St James’ Park crowd with a debut goal against Wolves, but his performances have shown the reality of adapting to English football.

In the Bundesliga last season, Woltemade was involved in 14 goals across 28 matches, averaging 4.38 shot-creating actions per 90, per FBref.

His ability to progress the ball is also evident, carrying it forward 26 times per 90 minutes and adding 2.89 progressive passes, per FBref.

These numbers highlight a striker who is comfortable linking play rather than just finishing chances. Yet so far in England, those qualities have been less visible.

He also contributes defensively, averaging 0.56 tackles and 1.28 blocks per 90 last season, which shows that he is willing to press. However, Howe will be aware that a club-record signing will be judged primarily on goals, and right now, Woltemade still looks like a player learning the rhythm and relentlessness of the Premier League.

Patience is needed, but Newcastle may not be able to wait if they want results quickly.

Osula can be the difference for Newcastle

That’s where William Osula comes in.

The 22-year-old striker, signed from Sheffield United for £15m, has flown somewhat under the radar since his arrival.

He made 25 appearances across all competitions, scoring five and assisting twice, but crucially showed signs of being the “natural #9” that Newcastle desperately need, as described by U23 scout Antonio Mango.

Osula was nearly allowed to leave on deadline day, with Frankfurt circling, but Newcastle pulled the plug following Yoane Wissa’s injury on international duty. It already looks a shrewd decision.

The Dane scored his first Premier League goal last season against Ipswich last season, and this campaign has already opened his account with a strike in the loss to Liverpool. Midweek against Bradford, he made a statement.

Match Rating

8.2

Goals

2

Shots on Target

4

Dribbles

3 (2 successful)

Touches

39

Passes

16 (15 accurate)

Ground Duels

11 (5 won)

This was a centre-forward performance full of hunger, sharpness, and clinical finishing – precisely what Newcastle have lacked in their league fixtures.

His pressing from the front also allowed the midfield to play higher up, easing pressure on the defence. For a side starved of attacking fluency, Osula represents the kind of direct, instinctive forward who can turn half-chances into goals.

A partnership potential with Woltemade, once the German fully settles, could give Newcastle multiple tactical options.

One towering, playmaking striker alongside a more mobile, poacher-type forward. With tough opponents on the horizon, Howe must balance pragmatism with ambition.

Newcastle: Eddie Howe impressed with £25k-a-week Magpies player in training

He starred in the week against Bradford City.

ByCharlie Smith Sep 25, 2025

Yet if Newcastle truly want to ignite their season, unleashing Osula more consistently might be the spark that transforms their attack.

The 2025 summer transfer window was a crazy period for Newcastle United. Eddie Howe’s side lost their star player, Alexander Isak, at the 11th hour, and whilst they had already replaced him with Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa, it took them some time to land their new pair of number nines.

The two strikers were not the only additions the Magpies made in the summer, but they were arguably the most important. With Isak and Callum Wilson leaving, there was certainly a need to add quality depth up front to combat the loss of their former strikers.

Whilst Wissa is yet to play a game due to injury, Woltemade has really hit the ground running.

How Woltemade and Isak’s Newcastle starts compare

There was always going to be lots of pressure on German striker Woltemade. The former Stuttgart star was a target for Bayern Munich too, but Newcastle ended up paying a club-record fee of £69m to secure his services.

However, it has been a fast start to life in the Premier League for the 23-year-old.

He’s only played four Premier League games so far, but has already bagged three goals in that time, including a strike on his debut against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Interestingly, that is the exact same start that Isak had in that famous Black and White shirt. In the same number of Premier League games, the Swede had bagged three goals, which included a strike on his debut.

To build on that even further, they both scored on their debut, a game in which both players came off the bench. They didn’t find the back of the net on their second appearance, but in the two that followed, each of the strikers scored.

There are certainly some interesting parallels between Woltemade and Isak’s first four games as a Newcastle player.

Despite Bayern’s honorary president, Uli Hoeness, suggesting the German “isn’t worth” the money they spent – having also been criticised by Karl-Heinz Rummenigge for their ‘idiotic’ deal – he’s made a fast start to life at St James’ Park.

However, the same cannot be said for another of their summer signings, who hasn’t performed at his best yet.

Newcastle’s summer signing who has struggled

Moving to a club the size of Newcastle is always going to be a challenge, especially after the PIF takeover back in 2021. Yet, Woltemade seems to have dealt with that pressure well, and Magpies fans will be hoping he can continue that form.

One of their summer signings hasn’t quite hit the ground running in the same way. Anthony Elanga, the Magpies’ “mega money” signing, as Statman Dave put it, has certainly not found his best form at St James’ Park yet.

Elanga cost the North Eastern giants £55m this summer, a fee which Jamie O’Hara said was an “inflated valuation” of the Swedish star.

Indeed, in ten games so far for the club, the former Manchester United academy graduate is yet to score or set up a goal. He did pick up the player of the match award in the Champions League, gameweek two.

Yet, the winger certainly has lots to offer his new club, despite the slow start he’s made in that famous Black and White shirt. He was excellent for Forest last season, racking up 17 goals and assists in 38 top-flight games.

That included this sublime solo effort against Man United.

On top of that, his underlying numbers from last term highlight his quality.

For example, Elanga averaged 1.8 chances created and made 3.2 ball recoveries per 90 minutes, showing how good he is both on and off the ball.

Goals and assists

0.7

17

Chances created

1.8

49

Take-ons completed

0.9

25

Fouls won

1.7

47

Ball recoveries

89

3.2

So far, Elanga has not lived up to the huge price tag that Newcastle spent on him, with there perhaps a feeling that the club and PIF might have overpaid, considering his current market value only rests at €42m (£36m), as per Transfermarkt.

Certainly, though, Newcastle fans will be hoping the Swede’s Magpies career can take more of an upward trend and he can start chipping in with goal involvement.

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The 27-year-old Canada international has been out since the goalless draw in the Champions League play-off at home to Kazakhstan side Kairat Almaty on August 20, missing nine games in all competitions.

Johnston returned to training during the international break and ahead of the trip to Dundee in the William Hill Premiership on Sunday, Rodgers told Celtic TV: “It’s obviously a big blow having someone of that quality out.

“But young Colby Donovan has come in and done very, very well, Tony Ralston is always a very capable player for the club and an international player, so it has given those guys a chance to get games.

“But there’s no doubt Ali’s been a real pivotal part of the team for a number of years now.

“His power and the balance he gives both offensively and defensively is very important for the team.

“So it’s great to have him back on the pitch and seeing that strength and power back in training.”

Rodgers excited by Celtic fixture run

After a “reset” during this international break, Rodgers is looking for his players to embrace the tough tasks they face in the seven games before domestic football takes another rest in November.

Amid a busy upcoming schedule, Celtic, who trail William Hill Premiership leaders Hearts by two points, have Europa League games against Sturm Graz and Midtjylland, a trip to Tynecastle in the league and a Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Rangers at Hampden Park.

The former Liverpool and Leicester boss said: “Let’s embrace all the challenges that come our way, both domestically and in Europe.

“It’s a really exciting period. It’s what Celtic is all about, playing these games and playing in the big games. And for us, that collective, being together, is always the attitude that we want to show.

“We’re excited by these games that are coming up and we want to go in and embrace the challenges. Everyone together fighting for the same cause is what Celtic is about.”

It’s still early on in Thomas Frank’s tenure, but there are a lot of problems at Tottenham Hotspur at the moment.

Now, they are certainly harder to break down under the Dane and sit much higher in the Premier League than they did under Ange Postecoglou.

However, the North Londoners are one of the worst teams to watch in the league and were utterly hopeless in the derby against Chelsea, a game in which they amassed an expected goals figure of just 0.05.

One of Frank’s most significant issues at the moment is that summer signing Xavi Simons isn’t firing, so it’s fans should be excited about reports linking them to an attacker who could help get the Dutchman back to his mercurial best.

Spurs target attacking reinforcements

In stark contrast to last season, Spurs are simply not scoring enough goals this year, with their return of 17 being the same as Manchester United, who not long ago were in yet another crisis.

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Moreover, across all competitions, their top goalscorer is Micky Van de Ven, with five.

However, while scoring has been a problem for the North Londoners, there is a massive caveat: the number of players out injured, including Dominic Solanke, James Maddison, and Dejan Kulusevski.

Fortunately, it appears as if the club are looking to address this lack of available firepower in the January window.

At least that is according to a recent report from Spain, which claims Spurs are interested in Porto striker Samu Omorodion.

The report has revealed that, alongside Chelsea, the North Londoners are leading the race for the Spanish striker and could make a move for him as soon as January.

However, with a release clause of €100m, which is approximately £88m, it could be a complicated deal to get over the line.

With that said, given his record, it would be a deal worth working on, especially as he could help Simons rediscover his form.

Why Samu would be a dream for Simons

While it sounds simplistic, the most significant reason Samu would not only be an excellent signing for Simons but also for Spurs is his goalscoring ability.

For example, despite being his first year with a new club, the Spanish marksman managed to rack up a brilliant haul of 27 goals and three assists in 45 appearances, which translates to an average of a goal or assist every 1.50 games.

This season has seen the 21-year-old score nine goals and provide one assist in just 12 appearances, two of which have come in the Europa League.

In other words, he is averaging a goal involvement every 1.20 games, which would be impressive for a seasoned professional, let alone someone so young.

Now, were Simons to play alongside, or just behind someone, talent scout Jacek Kulig has dubbed “one of Europe’s most prolific players,” then there it would be reasonable to expect his assist tally to soar.

Appearances

45

12

Goals

27

9

Assists

3

1

Goal Involvements per Match

0.66

0.83

However, it’s not just the output that would make Samu a perfect teammate for the Dutchman, but also his physicality.

Standing at 6 feet 4, the Melilla-born poacher is also incredibly strong and could help compensate for the lack of physicality that the former RB Leipzig ace has.

Moreover, this strength could help him hold up the ball for the North Londoners, in turn allowing the likes of Simons and Kudus to run beyond and cause chaos.

Ultimately, while it wouldn’t be cheap, Spurs should do all they can to sign Samu, as not only could he get Simons firing, but he could also rejuvenate the entire front line.

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