All posts by z3u9t.icu

Celtic ended the transfer window with a whimper. Still, they may now have a surprise opportunity to strengthen their engine room after holding talks with the camp of a free agent midfielder.

Celtic face pivotal week in Europa League and Scottish Premiership

After dropping points at home to Hibernian, Celtic sit two points behind Heart of Midlothian in the Scottish Premiership table and may well be five adrift once they take on Motherwell this Sunday, depending on whether the Jambos defeat Hibernian on Saturday night.

Overall, the Bhoys more than merited a victory against David Gray’s men last weekend. However, Kelechi Iheanacho missed several opportunities and his teammates were profligate in front of goal, leading to a goalless stalemate at Parkhead.

Now, Celtic turn their attention to the task of facing Braga in the Europa League on Thursday, swiftly be followed up by a home clash against the Steelmen.

Brendan Rodgers opted to remain positive after his side drew a blank against Hibernian, claiming their performance on the day was encouraging and they simply didn’t get the rub of the green to force a triumph over the line.

He stated: “In terms of performance, the players have done really, really well. If you look at all the metrics in the game, created big chances, moved the ball really well. And our only downside was that killer touch in the box.”

In theory, he is correct to point out that his side did put on a decent performance, though their tally of eight goals in six league games is a cause for concern that could lead to unrest if he isn’t able to rectify their lack of cutting edge.

Taking a step away from matters on the field, there may well now be an unexpected development on the transfer front concerning the Hoops.

Pierre Ekwah's agents hold talks with Celtic over his availability

According to Mark Hendry on Substack, free agent midfielder Pierre Ekwah’s camp have contacted Celtic to hold talks over a Parkhead move after he controversially saw his deal Ligue 2 club Saint-Ettienne ripped up under acrimonious circumstances.

Foot Mercato state Ekwah decided to terminate his deal himself after being unhappy at the French side activating an option to buy included in his loan deal from Sunderland last term. He has since been at a stand-off with the second-tier outfit and could be involved in a legal battle.

Celtic star reveals what he thinks after being quizzed on Parkhead protest

Hoops supporters staged a silent protest against Hibs.

ByCharlie Smith Sep 28, 2025

Keen to kickstart his career elsewhere, his camp has approached both Celtic and Rangers to gauge their interest in adding the 23-year-old to their ranks.

Capable of featuring either in defensive or central midfield, he made 29 appearances last term in Ligue 1. Ekwah hasn’t taken part in Saint-Ettiene training or pre-season, although he has clubs from England, Italy and Belgium vying for his services.

Celtic could use cover for Callum McGregor in the six role. However, it remains to be seen whether they pull the trigger in a situation that could become complicated between all parties involved after departing his club caused a huge stir.

Manchester City will hope to ride the crest of a wave as they plot a route into the Premier League race, and the Citizens may also be preparing for a fight with Liverpool to sign a lucrative international at zero cost.

Manchester City look to kick on after derby victory

The Etihad Stadium paid witness to some raucous scenes last weekend as Manchester City swept aside Manchester United to move within six points of Liverpool at the top of the table.

Before the match, Erling Haaland urged his new teammates to take on added responsibility after a busy transfer window that saw his side lose a number of influential figures. When it mattered, they all stepped up to deliver a stirring display.

Speaking after his side recorded a convincing triumph, Pep Guardiola reserved special praise for his Norwegian talisman and homegrown hero Phil Foden, who both got themselves on the scoresheet.

Starting with Haaland, the former Barcelona manager said: “Erling has been incredible since the start but this season he is better than ever. I would say better than the Treble year. He’s dynamic and I don’t judge him for the clearance, we want him to score goals and to help us.”

Later, he added on Foden: “We missed him so much and the season before he was the best player in the Premier League so we need him, he has a work ethic. Phil is the core, the heart of the club, from the academy and he loves City. To have him back is good news.”

With 2026 not too far in the distance, Manchester City are set to block interest from Al Nassr in a £112 million move for Phil Foden, and they now have their eye on one of his international teammates.

Man City ready to up the ante to land Marc Guehi in 2026

According to The Mirror, Manchester City are huge admirers of Marc Guehi, planning a move and will throw everything at landing him on a free transfer in 2026, with Crystal Palace unwilling to sanction his exit in the January window.

Despite Liverpool’s well-documented interest in the former Chelsea man alongside Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Inter Milan and Juventus, the Citizens are hopeful they can secure his services without having to pay a transfer fee, teeing up the saga of next summer.

Man City brewing homegrown Guehi in "one of the most talented teen CBs"

Manchester City could be brewing their homegrown Marc Guehi with this talented centre-back.

ByKelan Sarson Sep 14, 2025

Labelled a “monster in defence” by Bobby Manzi, Guehi has handled himself exceptionally well despite being at the centre of a failed move to Anfield on Deadline Day, even scoring once in seven appearances across all competitions.

Guardiola’s backline has been altered following the departures of Manuel Akanji and Kyle Walker, and there may be more movement to come as they step up their efforts to land Guehi.

It remains to be seen who will win the battle for his signature, with Barca and Real described as ready to move. But regardless, Manchester City seem ready to go all-in given the lucrative possibility of signing a reliable Premier League performer.

Manchester United have now “presented” their offer for a “phenomenal” striker, and talks with his entourage are currently ongoing, Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg has revealed.

Man Utd narrow list of striker targets

Man United’s forward options impressed Ruben Amorim in the recent 2-1 friendly victory over West Ham United, with the manager saying: “All the guys. I don’t want to talk specifically, but Rasmus did well. Matheus Cunha is the kind of player who can help us a lot because he can run with the ball, we missed that last year.”

However, widespread reports are still suggesting that Rasmus Hojlund could still exit Old Trafford this summer, which would make bringing in a new striker even more important, and the Red Devils have narrowed down their list of targets to just two names.

A deal for Benjamin Sesko will be on the expensive side, with a maximum price tag of around £78m, but United are clearly very interested in securing his signature, having now “presented” their project and financial offer.

That is according to an update from Plettenberg on X, who states that Amorim’s side are now battling Newcastle United for Sesko, with the two clubs currently locked in talks with his entourage.

Following a verbal agreement, there is an expectation that formal offers will be submitted to RB Leipzig, and the decision now rests with the centre-forward, who has to decide whether he would rather join United or make the move to St. James’ Park this summer.

Their own Rodri: Man Utd looking at deal to sign £43m "defensive monster"

Manchester United target Bayern Munich Star to compete with Man City’s Rodri

2 ByWill Miller Jul 28, 2025 Sesko could be "phenomenal" signing for Man Utd

Hailed as “phenomenal” by scout Antonio Mango, the 22-year-old was well-known to be a major target for Arsenal, before the Gunners ultimately decided to pursue Viktor Gyokeres, and for good reason, given that the Leipzig star clearly has bags of ability and potential.

The Slovenian has already amassed 41 caps for his national side, scoring 16 goals, while he has also been a reliable source of goals for RB Leipzig over the last two Bundesliga campaigns, scoring a combined 27 goals.

As mentioned, Amorim was left impressed by Hojlund’s performance against West Ham, but the Danish striker has simply not been prolific enough in his first two seasons at Old Trafford, having scored just 14 Premier League goals.

Season

PL appearances

Goals

2023-24

30

10

2024-25

32

4

Consequently, it is evident that Amorim needs to bring in an upgrade this summer, and Sesko could be exactly that, given his exploits in the Bundesliga.

Leeds United have now identified a £20m goalkeeper as their top target to replace Illan Meslier this summer, journalist Marco Giordano has revealed.

Leeds set to bring in replacement for Meslier

With Karl Darlow replacing Meslier between the sticks at the back end of last season, The Athletic’s Phil Hay believes the Frenchman is “done” at Elland Road, saying: “Meslier, I struggle to see being first choice at Leeds again. I might be wrong. But the way in which it has happened this season, dropping out of the team on the back of two or three years of downward spiral.

“It makes you think he needs a fresh start and Leeds need to go after a new first-choice goalkeeper. I’d be really surprised if they don’t. I feel like he’s done.”

Since then, Daniel Farke’s side have gone on to identify a number of potential targets, with recent reports suggesting they have even submitted a £6m bid for Fenerbahce’s Dominik Livakovic, who has been identified as a potential alternative to Torino’s Vanja Milinkovic-Savic.

Leeds: 49ers holding direct "conversations" with "unplayable" free striker

The Whites have made an approach to sign a centre-forward…

1 ByDominic Lund Jul 10, 2025

In a recent update on X, Giordona has revealed that Leeds’ pursuit of Milinkovic-Savic has faded, perhaps given the rival interest from Serie A champions Napoli, who are now in a position to negotiate with Torino.

As such, Leeds have identified a different goalkeeper as their “top choice” to replace Meslier this summer, namely Lyon’s Lucas Perri, who is set to be available for a fee of around £20m, given that his current employers have faced significant financial issues.

There could be stiff competition for Perri’s signature, however, with Premier League rivals Newcastle United also identifying the Lyon shot-stopper as a potential alternative to Burnley’s James Trafford earlier this week.

"Best in the world" Perri could be ideal Meslier replacement

Lyon manager Paulo Fonseca would seemingly be very disappointed to lose his goalkeeper, considering the 52-year-old lauded him as the “best in the world” after he put in a remarkable display in a 2-0 victory against OGC Nice back in March.

On that day, the Brazilian made three saves from inside the box to keep Nice at bay and pick up a clean sheet, in what was one of many solid displays throughout the 2024-25 campaign, having also put in a top performance against Saint Étienne.

Fonseca isn’t the only person who has been left impressed by the 27-year-old in recent times either, with football scout Ben Mattinson lauding him as a “top” and “undervalued” goalkeeper back in March.

It is clear that Leeds need to replace Meslier this summer, given that his mistakes nearly cost his side promotion to the Premier League last season, and Perri has proven he could be a solid replacement, so it is promising news that he has emerged as the top target.

Tottenham Hotspur are closing in on their second signing of the summer after their permanent deal for Mathys Tel, and the fee Spurs are about to pay for their newest arrival has set a record.

Tottenham preparing bid for £30m colossus wanted by Napoli, Milan and Inter

Spurs could scupper Antonio Conte in the race for his signature.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Jun 21, 2025

Spurs missed out on FC Copenhagen starlet Roony Bardghji earlier this week, with Barcelona ultimately winning the race for his signature, but Thomas Frank is still expected to be backed with more forward additions.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

One of their key aims before deadline day on September 1 is signing another proven winger, and one who could replace Son Heung-min if he does in fact leave the club for Saudi Arabia after 10 years.

“Son will get a big-money contract if he moves to Saudi Arabia,” said ex-Lilywhites scout Bryan King to Tottenham News recently.

“Everyone else who has gone there has received a big-money offer, so why would a player of Son’s stature not receive that same kind of offer.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if Tottenham receive a similar fee for Son as they did for Harry Kane. Son has been at Tottenham for 10 years, and he’s been a marvellous servant to the club. He has one year left on his contract, and Tottenham could cash in, as could the player.”

West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus, Man City outcast Jack Grealish, Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, Southampton sensation Tyler Dibling and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo have all been linked recently, as has Lazio’s Gustan Isaksen, with Frank reportedly very keen to sign the Dane (Lalaziosiamonoi.it).

However, they could also bolster their ranks with fresh young defensive talent, and that is expected to be the case with Kawasaki Frontale gem Kota Takai.

The 20-year-old, standing at a towering 6 foot 4, is apparently on the verge of joining Spurs from the J-League.

Tottenham agree £5 million fee to sign Kota Takai

Tottenham will pay around £5 million to sign Takai, according to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano, and this is apparently a J-League “record” for a Japanese player from that division.

Sharing further background on their surprise move for the talent, which practically came out of nowhere, reliable journalist Alasdair Gold has claimed that Takai was personally identified by technical director Johan Lange as a promising young player for the first-team, and one who could make a similar impact to the likes of Lucas Bergvall and Pape Sarr after a brief settling in period.

Takai has already won four senior caps for Japan at international level, and captained Kawasaki against Yokohoma F. Marinos back in April – a game where he also got on the scoresheet in a thrilling 3-3 draw.

He also played a key role at the back for Kawasaki in their run to the Asian Champions League final, beating Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr in the semi-finals before they eventually lost out to Al-Hilal.

Leeds United appear to be falling away in the race to sign Senegal international Habib Diarra from Strasbourg during the summer transfer window.

Journalist Ben Jacobs reports that a move to Elland Road for the central midfielder is “unlikely” because of issues in negotiations over personal terms with the player.

Jacobs, as seen in the post above, adds that the Championship champions did put a bid in for him last week, which shows that the Whites are in the market to sign a new central midfielder for Daniel Farke this summer.

However, that new midfield signing does not look set to be Diarra, given this latest update. That means that Leeds will have to look elsewhere in that position, and that is exactly what they are doing.

Leeds eyeing move for Diarra alternative

With a move for the Strasbourg midfielder on the rocks, the 49ers are now targeting an alternative option to bolster the team in that area of the pitch.

Transfer Focus

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

According to Leeds United News, the Whites have looked at a potential deal to sign Raphael Onyedika from Belgian side Club Brugge this summer.

Reporter Graeme Bailey told Leeds United News: “I’ve been told one name who West Ham like is Onyedika at Club Brugge. Leeds have looked at him as well. They want that type of player, that physicality.

“He’s a very good player and it wouldn’t surprise me either. He’s a threat, West Ham are looking at him as a replacement for Soucek. But he’s one player Leeds are looking at, and Leeds have got loads of options.”

The outlet quotes a price tag of around £26m, £25.6m to be precise, for the 24-year-old talent, but it remains to be seen whether West Ham or Leeds would be willing to pay that much for him.

Why Leeds should sign Raphael Onyedika

The Whites should push to beat the Hammers to his signature before the end of the summer transfer window because he would be an even better signing than Diarra.

Leeds will be battling to avoid relegation from the Premier League next season, given that the last six teams to come up from the Championship have come straight back down, and this means that they should be targeting players who can win duels and compete defensively in tight games.

This is why Onyedika would be a better signing in midfield for what the Whites need in the middle of the park, because he is a combative midfielder who can make tackles and win duels regularly.

Tackles won

26

13

Duels won

120

99

Duel success rate

49%

48%

Interceptions

22

13

Ball recoveries

153

90

Blocks

10

7

Aerial duel success rate

53%

43%

As you can see in the table above, the Nigeria international significantly outperformed Diarra at league level during the 2024/25 campaign when it came to their respective work out of possession.

These statistics suggest that Onyedika is far more effective defensively than the Strasbourg star, as he makes tackles, blocks, recoveries, and interceptions far more frequently than the Senegalese ace does.

This is why the 24-year-old star, who played 51 times in all competitions for Club Brugge this season, would be far more suited to playing in a team that is set to battle against the drop next term.

Therefore, Leeds should push ahead with a deal to sign Onyedika after their move for Diarra stalled, as he could be even better than the Ligue 1 gem due to his excellent defensive attributes.

Big Aaronson upgrade: Leeds close to agreeing deal for £30m "magician"

Leeds are confident that they will sign this star, and he would be a big upgrade on Brenden Aaronson.

1 ByDan Emery Jun 17, 2025

Newcastle United are said to have held initial talks with an “outstanding” defender over a move to the club in the summer transfer window.

Newcastle focus on attacking signings after missing out on Mbeumo

Eddie Howe knows the importance of strengthening his squad ahead of next season, and eye-catching reports continue to link the Magpies with potential signings this summer.

Contact has reportedly been made regarding a move for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, with the Englishman seen as an alternative to Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, who now disappointingly looks like he is off to Manchester United. The Blues ace scored seven goals in the Premier League in 2024/25, including a hat-trick away to Wolves.

Brighton forward Joao Pedro is also considered an option for Newcastle to bring in ahead of next season, as they look to give Alexander Isak healthy competition, as well as ease his workload with Champions League football returning to St James’ Park in 2025/26.

A right-sided attacker remains a priority, though, hence the Madueke links, and Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman has been backed to come in, having fallen out of favour at the Bundesliga giants. Now, one of his teammates has also been linked with the Magpies.

Newcastle hold talks with "outstanding" defender

According to a new report from Caught Offside, Newcastle have held “initial talks” with Bayern centre-back Kim Min-jae over a move to St James’. He is keen on a move away, and he could be available for £29.5m after his asking price dropped from £42m.

The likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan are also mentioned as options for the 28-year-old, who is fresh off the back of winning the Bundesliga title with Bayern.

A new central defender is a must for Newcastle this summer and Kim could be perfect, coming in as a big name with proven pedigree at the top level.

Contact made: Newcastle now make approach to sign £50m Chelsea forward

Newcastle are now keen on striking a deal to sign an exciting attacker from Chelsea.

2 ByBrett Worthington Jun 5, 2025

The South Korean is now both an Italian and German champion, having won the Serie A title with Napoli in 2022/23, and Bayern teammate Joshua Kimmich spoke of his admiration for he and centre-back partner Dayot Upamecano last year.

In 2024/25, Min-jae outlined his dominance as a centre-back, averaging 3.2 clearances and three aerial duel wins per game, with his performances more impressive than Fabian Schar’s for Newcastle.

Appearances

27

34

Starts

27

33

Minutes played

2289

2938

Clearances per game

3.2

3.9

Aerial duel wins per game

3.0

1.7

Interceptions per game

1.4

1.3

Tackles per game

1.3

1.1

Goals

2

4

Assists

0

0

The Magpies should see the 69-cap South Korea international as a leading option to strengthen their defence, in what would feel like a statement signing.

Despite Leeds United having enjoyed a superb 2024/25 campaign in the Championship, this summer is a vital one for their future, desperately needing to get their business spot on.

Promotion to the Premier League brings in huge money for the football club, but there is a huge gap between the two divisions, with additions needed to bridge the gap this window.

Daniel Farke will need signings in key areas of the pitch to allow him to have the best possible chance of securing survival from the Premier League for the first time in his career.

The German has attempted to achieve such a feat with Norwich City in the past, but has so far been unable to do so, with this season crucial for his tenure at Elland Road.

With the new season already less than two months away, work has already begun behind the scenes in Yorkshire to help the manager in his quest throughout 2025/26.

The latest on Leeds’ hunt for new additions this summer

Over recent days, a new striker has been on the agenda for Farke, as he looks to add another dimension to his already potent attack, which helped claim promotion to the Premier League.

The likes of Jamie Vardy, Rodrigo Muniz and Callum Wilson have all been touted with a switch to Elland Road, but no deals have yet been completed this summer.

However, a new name has entered the mix in recent days, with Wolves striker Fabio Silva the latest player on their shortlist, according to ABC Sevilla via Birmingham World.

It’s reported that the Whites have entered talks with fellow Premier League outfit Wolves over a deal for the 22-year-old talisman, who only has one year left on his contract.

His current situation at Molineux remains unclear, but he’s demonstrated his quality over recent times, scoring 10 times in LaLiga this season whilst spending the year on loan at Las Palmas.

Why Leeds’ latest target could be their own Sesko

Beto is another striker who’s been hugely linked with a summer move to join Leeds, with the Everton talisman yet to reach his full potential at his current side, Everton.

The 27-year-old joined the Toffees in a £30m deal back in the summer of 2023, but has been unable to take the starting role on a consistent basis, often having to settle for time on the bench.

He’s managed to score eight times in the Premier League this season, subsequently being outscored by fellow target Silva, with the Whites needing to shift their focus to the Portuguese star.

The 22-year-old has been ranked as a similar player to RB Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko by FBref, with the Slovenian international linked with the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United this summer.

He’s also valued at around £60m this summer, highlighting the impressive nature of Silva’s play if he’s been compared to such an impressive big-money talent.

When comparing the pair’s respective figures from the 2024/25 campaign, Silva has managed to match or better Sesko in various key areas, highlighting how much of a crucial addition he would be to Farke’s side.

Silva, who’s been labelled “generational” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, may have scored fewer goals, but has achieved a better goal per shot on target rate – highlighting the clinical threat he poses in front of goal.

Games played

24

33

Goals scored

10

13

Shot on target accuracy

44%

43%

Goal per shot on target

0.4

0.3

Shot-creating actions

2.1

1.9

Carries into opposition box

1.1

0.5

Aerials won

2.7

2.6

Passes into opposition box

0.7

0.3

The Wolves loanee has also registered more shot-creating actions and won more aerial battles, offering Farke’s side an all-round option within attacking areas.

His dominance doesn’t stop there, completing more passes and carries into the opposition box, handing other players around him the opportunity to impress in Yorkshire.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the Portuguese sensation would set the club back this summer, his talents are there for all to see – potentially being a bargain if he can reach Sesko’s levels.

Given the fact he’s outscored Beto, the hierarchy must look to prioritise a move for the Wolves star, with the youngster having the opportunity to improve further given his tender age.

Better than Beto: Leeds set to make bid for "one of the best CFs in the PL"

Leeds United could finally be about to land a talisman to catapult them to Premier League survival.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 11, 2025

Penny for the thoughts of the mass of detractors who thought Arne Slot would fall by the wayside after taking over at Liverpool. Replacing Jurgen Klopp was an impossible task, after all.

Liverpool have done anything but stumble, somehow leaping forward to win the Premier League in Slot’s first season, so dominant and so far clear of Arsenal and Manchester City.

However, not all of Anfield’s first-teamers managed to cover themselves in glory, on an individual basis at least. Club-record man Darwin Nunez is the most obvious pick, having scored seven goals across 47 Premier League games, starting just one league fixture since Boxing Day.

Nunez will leave this summer, most probably, with suitors emerging from Spain and the Saudi Pro League. However, FSG could go one further and cash in on Diogo Jota too.

A high-level number nine is at the top of the shopping list, remember.

The latest on Diogo Jota's future

Jota is not be nailed on for a sale this summer (unlike Nunez), but he may well find himself lacing new boots come September, with Liverpool reluctant to offer their marksman a new contract; his current deal expires in June 2027.

Liverpool signed Jota from Wolverhampton Wanderers in September 2020 for a fee rising to £45m. He’s since become one of the deadliest goalscorers around, with Jamie Carragher even claiming last year that the Portuguese star is “the best finisher” the Reds have had in the Premier League, surpassing the great names you can instantly draw to mind.

But Jota has been uncharacteristically profligate this year, with Sofascore recording his xG (expected goals) total at 7.92, meaning with a six-goal return, he has underperformed.

Injuries, an incessant plague throughout his Liverpool career, appear to be catching up with the 28-year-old.

24/25

26 (14)

6

4

23/24

21 (14)

10

4

22/23

22 (12)

7

4

21/22

35 (27)

15

6

20/21

19 (12)

9

0

Saudi suitors are keen, and cashing in on both stars could prove priceless, for it would allow Liverpool to move for their top target at centre-forward.

Liverpool prepare bid for touted striker

As per Spanish sources, Liverpool are preparing an official bid for Hugo Ekitike, but will need to act fast, with the Eintracht Frankfurt forward one of the most sought-after stars of the summer.

It’s understood FSG would be willing to pay €80m (about £68m) for the French talent, but maybe not meet the Bundesliga club’s €100m (£85m) valuation, as has been reported in Germany.

The problem, naturally, is Liverpool aren’t alone in their bid, with Conference League winners Chelsea also keen on a deal and reported to hold the lead in the race, with Sky Sports claiming they are ‘putting in the most effort’.

This is principally down to Anfield juggling a number of different deals – deftly, it must be said – but certainly urges action if this race is to be won.

What Hugo Ekitike would bring to Liverpool

Ekitike, 22, left Paris Saint-Germain as an exciting prospect to make a name for himself in Germany. Frankfurt has proved the dream hothouse for him, with those such as analyst Ben Mattinson regarding him as “one of the best strikers out there.”

His half-season with Die Roten in 2023/24 looked unsuccessful until something clicked at the business end, Ekitike posting four goals and an assist across the final five games of the league season.

This year, he’s hit another gear altogether, scoring 22 goals and adding 12 assists across 48 matches in all competitions, honing his clinical ability while flourishing a multi-faceted skill set which has likely been the arresting factor in convincing Liverpool’s data analysts.

Availability is also a strong suit, Ekitike missing just one game of the concluding campaign with a slight knock. This, of course, leaves him diametrically opposed to Jota in that regard, making a significant case for a transfer switch in the coming months.

Conversely to Jota, Ekitike’s finishing leaves something to be desired, but that hasn’t stopped him forging an almighty campaign for himself in Germany, hitting seven goal involvements from 12 Europa League matches too.

But finishing can be improved. Jota scored seven goals across his final Premier League season for Wolves, missing 12 big chances.

What matters is that Ekitike covers the span of expectation and then some. Indeed, his performances suggest he is the dynamic, rounded striker needed at Liverpool, one who would certainly prove an upgrade on Jota.

Goals scored

0.53

0.45

Assists

0.28

0.23

Shots taken

4.00

3.84

Shot-creating actions

3.55

2.78

Touches (att pen)

6.88

7.30

Progressive passes

1.86

2.56

Progressive carries

3.27

2.78

Successful take-ons

1.83

0.83

Ball recoveries

3.06

3.09

Tackles + interceptions

0.81

1.66

Above we have a collation of the two forwards’ data from their respective league campaigns. Ekitike, as you can see, has outperformed his Portuguese counterpart across almost every metric, with his potency a direct product of his desire to get into the box.

Let’s turn our attention to the players’ respective ball-carrying data. Ekitike is also far more mobile, demonstrating an energy and silkiness which could aid Liverpool in transition, for Jota is more likely to linger in the danger area than actually contribute to the transition himself.

Jota is regarded for being a dynamic player, but Liverpool may well have unearthed a forward even more protean in their attacking application, and much younger besides.

And given that the wellspring that is Jota’s striking ability has seemingly dried up, it might be worthwhile to cash in after five years of praisable service on Merseyside, bringing in a fresh face to spearhead the Slot era as it truly hits its stride.

Not just Trent: World-class Liverpool star must not play for the club again

Liverpool are ready to make a series of sales in the transfer market this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 26, 2025

It’s safe to say this has been a perplexing season for Arsenal, who are now very likely to finish second having secured Champions League football for next season.

It came in the 37th gameweek as Mikel Arteta’s men defeated Newcastle 1-0. It was a game that rather typified the Gunners’ recent form, truth be told. Arsenal didn’t create a huge number of openings and left themselves exposed at the back.

This time, they had Man of the Match David Raya to thank for their victory with the Spaniard making a number of high-class saves in the opening 45 minutes. While Arsenal don’t need a goalkeeper, their end-of-season form has showcased where they need to strengthen.

Fortunately, writing before the game in the programme, Josh Kroenke spoke of the club’s summer plans and indicated that they will spend, sparking excitement for what’s to come.

So, speaking of transfers, who is likely to come through the door?

Arsenal ramping up summer transfer plans

While the biggest box to tick this summer is that of a shiny new centre forward, the Gunners must also hone in on a new winger after inconsistent campaigns for both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.

Martinelli has found form in the back end of the campaign but has only scored on eight occasions in the Premier League. As for Trossard, he’s netted the same number in top-flight action.

As a result, we’ve seen continued links to Spanish winger Nico Williams and a suggestion that Arsenal are fans of Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon.

Despite their need for a new winger on the left, they could actually bolster the right-hand side too. That’s because, according to new reports, they are interested in signing Brentford talisman Bryan Mbeumo.

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That’s the word of club insider Teamnewsandtix, who wrote in his latest Patreon entry: “After the data team identified him last summer, Arsenal are targeting Bryan Mbeumo again. I’m told talks are progressing, but they aren’t the only team in for him.”

The Cameroon international has been nothing short of a sensation this summer and is also attracting the interest of Manchester United, according to other reports.

The forward is allegedly valued at around £51m by the Bees.

Where Mbeumo would fit into Arteta's Arsenal team

With Bukayo Saka very much still the leading light in Arteta’s lineup, fitting Mbeumo into the equation may be hard.

Described as a “Mini Salah” by talkSPORT pundit Jason Cundy, the Brentford star has made a living out of cutting inside from the right and bamboozling defenders on his stronger left foot. As the compliment suggests, he’s like Salah and, as a matter of fact, he’s very much like Saka in that regard.

While Arsenal do need to find someone who’s capable of giving the England international a break every now and then, spending £51m on a right winger when they are arguably more in need of a left forward perhaps doesn’t make too much sense.

Well, fortunately, Mbeumo is a versatile player, most notably playing six times as a centre forward this season, scoring four goals in the process.

Meanwhile, he’s played off the left on nine occasions in his career and he’s also featured behind the main striker as a no.10 or second striker 43 times. While that may well take away his strongest asset, cutting inside from the right, he certainly has the ability to make a difference in more central areas.

So, how does he compare with Saka?

Goals

0.51

0.19

Assists

0.32

0.53

Shots

2.09

3.39

Key passes

1.84

2.96

Progressive passes

3.71

3.54

Shot-creating actions

3.82

5.93

Successful take-ons

1.38

2.12

Progressive carries

3.39

4.97

Mbeumo has been in remarkable form this season and ranks fifth in the race for the Premier League Golden Boot, having bagged 19 goals. In all competitions, he’s also produced nine assists for his troubles.

When analysing their respective numbers, it’s clear the Brentford star is a more clinical player in front of goal. Despite taking fewer shots per 90 minutes, he’s scoring more regularly than Saka.

However, this would certainly be to the advantage of Arteta’s team. While Mbeumo may well be the better goalscorer, Saka is one of the most creative wingers in the world and is streets ahead in metrics like key passes and shot-creating actions.

Yes, there would likely be confusion about Arsenal signing a natural right winger, but supporters shouldn’t turn their noses up at more goals. This term, the league’s second-placed side have scored 67 goals in the top-flight, 16 fewer than Liverpool.

On that basis, it’s not a surprise to see that the Reds run away with proceedings.

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