All posts by z3u9t.icu

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.

Transfer Focus

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

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.

Their own Isak: The "best finisher in the world" wants to sign for Arsenal

Arsenal may not sign Alexander Isak this summer, but they could still sign their own version.

ByMatt Dawson May 19, 2025

In what could be their best move yet under Ruben Amorim, Manchester United are now reportedly ready to launch their move to sign a Barcelona star for a discounted price this summer.

Amorim not shying away from Man Utd critics

Whilst some managers may have been quick to defend Manchester United even as they fell closer to the relegation zone than the Premier League title, that is not Amorim’s preferred style. The former Sporting Club boss has been refreshingly, but ruthlessly honest since arriving at Old Trafford and that continued earlier this week in the build-up to the Athletic Bilbao game.

Amorim told reporters when asked about Manchester United’s European ambitions: “For me, in that moment and you look at Premier League, we are the worst team since I arrived in terms of results. That is my idea. In the end of the season, we can be the worst team in Premier League history with a European title.

Hojlund upgrade: Man Utd could see £34m bid accepted for "incredible" star

Man Utd are in desperate need of a new striker this summer, whatever happens in the Europa League

ByRobbie Walls May 8, 2025

“So we will not change anything. We know that this season was disappointing. Nothing is going to change, in that moment, I have to think a bit more but I felt that. I still feel that this season was the worst in the last 50 years.”

Amorim, arguably more than those before him, seems to be well aware of just how great a task he has on his hands at the club. The Red Devils have fallen lower than ever in the Premier League and are struggling to maintain their place as a top six club on the pitch as well as off the pitch when it comes to finances.

There must be wholesale changes in the summer and that could commence with the arrival of a Barcelona star. United’s move, on paper, looks ambitious but reports indicating a major discount in pursuit should hand them plenty of hope.

Man Utd readying Araujo move

According to reports in Spain, Manchester United are now readying their move to sign Ronald Araujo following news that he is now available at the discounted price of just €50m (£42m). Alongside Juventus and Bayern Munich as the club in the strongest position to sign the Uruguayan, the Red Devils will be relieved to see his price drop to such a price, considering that previous reports indicated that Araujo could cost as much as €80m (£68m) this summer.

With Barcelona seemingly ready to show their defender the door after his performance in their stunning 7-6 aggregate defeat against Inter Milan in the Champions League semi-final, any deal could also be fairly simple to get over the line for those at Old Trafford. Barcelona’s reported decision is about as ruthless as it gets at the top level, especially given the praise that Araujo has received at the club.

Even Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior has had positives to say about his countryman, telling reporters when asked to choose the most difficult defender that he has faced: “It has to be Araujo, who has defended me best. He is very good and very strong, that’s why he plays for Barca.”

Leeds United are interested in signing an in-demand French striker who is also wanted by Scottish giants Celtic.

Leeds transfer rumours following promotion to the Premier League

The Whites and Daniel Farke are preparing for life back in the Premier League following a successful Championship campaign.

Promotion was secured for Leeds over the Easter weekend which resulted in a party at Elland Road on Monday evening. Farke’s side secured wins over Oxford United and Stoke City, whereas Sheffield United fell to defeat against Burnley to guarantee a top two finish for the Whites and the Clarets.

Talking after sealing promotion to the Premier League, captain Ethan Ampadu said: “It’s amazing. If you look at the scenes here, as it was after the final whistle, just pure excitement. Within ourselves we’ve got another target, so we can enjoy this now, but we’ve got another target we want to achieve. But right now, it’s very good.”

Centre-back Joe Rodon added: “For me it hasn’t sunk in yet. I don’t think it will until the end of the season, but I’m just delighted for everyone involved with the club, the fans and what it means to them. It’s what everyone has worked for all season and I’m buzzing.”

With top flight football back in Yorkshire for the 2025/26 season, the 49ers Enterprises may look to splash the cash on several new signings, and a new centre-forward is thought to be on the wishlist.

Player

Fee

Joe Rodon

£10m

Jayden Bogle

£5m

Ao Tanaka

£2.95m

Manor Solomon

Loan

Largie Ramazani

£9.3m

Joe Rothwell

Loan

Isaac Schmidt

£2.5m

Josuha Guilavogui

Free

Alex Cairns

Undisclosed

There are doubts at Leeds over Joel Piroe’s ability in the top flight, despite the striker scoring four goals in the first half against Stoke on Monday. There are also concerns over Patrick Bamford.

There have been some forwards linked with moves to Elland Road recently, including AS Roma’s Tammy Abraham. However, a new up-and-coming young forward appears to be on the Leeds radar, going off a recent update.

Leeds keen on French forward Moussa Soumano

According to Africa Foot, Leeds are one of several sides keen on Ajaccio forward Moussa Soumano. Aged just 19, Soumano is also wanted by Celtic and Leicester City, whereas Brentford have already made an offer worth €3m (£2.5m) to sign the attacker.

49ers not messing: Leeds swoop for "unique" £1.5m Premier League striker

The Whites have set their sights on a forward who is currently plying his trade in the Premier League.

1 ByDominic Lund Apr 24, 2025

Also capable of playing on the wing if required, Soumano has scored five goals and provided two assists in 66 appearances for his current employers. Not exactly a prolific record, however, the 6ft French attacker has been hailed as a promising talent and is ‘considered one of the great hopes of Corsican football’ in Africa Foot’s report.

Soumano could be one to keep an eye on, with Leeds potentially looking to bring in some talented teenagers alongside some big names, just like they did with Crysencio Summerville and Mateo Joseph when they were last in the top flight.

Even though there are four Premiership matches still to play, Rangers supporters’ focus is very much on their plans for the summer.

Sunday sees the final Old Firm of the season, with the Gers actually targeting a third successive victory over their fiercest rivals, although it hasn’t helped much, given that Celtic sit 17 points clear at the top, crowned champions last weekend.

If Rangers are going to bridge that gap over the summer, they’ll need to get their recruitment spot on, so could bringing a “massive talent” in on loan prove to be a smart move?

Arne Engels' impact this season

On deadline day last summer, as a replacement for Matt O’Riley, Celtic broke their transfer record to sign Arne Engels from Augsburg for a reported £11m.

So, has the Belgian proved to be good value for money this season?

Let’s have a look at the midfielder’s statistics to help decide.

Appearances

48

Minutes

3,017

Goals

10

Penalty goals

8

Assists

12

Big chances created

14

As the table outlines, Engels’ output this season is pretty impressive this season, albeit his goal-scoring numbers are somewhat inflated by the fact he has converted eight penalties.

Nevertheless, at 21-years-old, there’s still plenty of time for him to come good and, flipping it to Rangers, they simply cannot afford to spend £11m on a player, their record signing of the modern-era is the £7m paid to make Ryan Kent’s move permanent in 2019.

So, should the Gers utilise the loan market to add quality to their squad, with another ex-Liverpool youngster potentially available?

Rangers' midfield target

As outlined already this week, Rangers may have the chance to reignite their prior January interest in Bobby Clark, with the youngster in line for a loan exit from Red Bull Salzburg this summer.

The 20-year-old spent time in Birmingham, Newcastle and then Liverpool’s academies, making his breakthrough on Merseyside, appearing 14 times for the Reds’ first team, most notably winning the EFL Cup against Chelsea at Wembley.

Then, last summer, after Jürgen Klopp’s long-time assistant Pepijn Lijnders was appointed as Salzburg’s new manager, he convinced the Austrian Bundesliga side to pay £10m to secure his services, the third-biggest fee Salzburg have ever paid.

Fair to say, this has not worked out for anyone involved; Lijnders was sacked just before Christmas, while die Roten Bullen remain fourth in the table, on course for their lowest finish in two decades, set to enter the Conference League in the second qualifying round, having featured in the Champions League group phase in each of the last six seasons.

As a whole, this campaign has been a complete catastrophe for Salzburg, while it’s not gone much better for Clark personally.

Appearances

24

13th

Minutes

1,142

16th

UCL minutes

326

14th

Goals

1

=12th

Assists

2

=9th

Due to his lack of minutes, a report by Christoph Nister of Kronen Zeitung claims that the plan is for Clark to be loaned out next season, so should Rangers make a move?

Well, despite the fact it has not worked out for Clark in Austria, he is still a quality player.

Newcastle reporter Lee Ryder has hailed him as a “really exciting player”, Ciaran Varley of BBC Sport is impressed by his ‘fast footwork’ and eye for goal, while Caoimhe O’Neill of The Athletic described him as an “attacking midfielder” who “plays close to the striker” and “is very athletic”.

So, let’s analyse how he compares to the aforementioned Engels – with the pair noted as similar players in this season’s Champions League, as per FBref.

Non-penalty goals

31%

31%

Shots

23%

54%

Assists

28%

94%

Shot-creating actions

43%

70%

Pass completion

47%

4%

Progressive passes

32%

37%

Progressive carries

71%

52%

Successful take-ons

42%

36%

Tackles

83%

71%

Interceptions

24%

20%

Touches

68%

64%

As the table outlines, Clarke and Engels are stylistically very similar, with the Englishman actually coming out on top for a high proportion of these Champions League statistics this season, which is made all the more impressive by the fact that Salzburg were generally hopeless in that competition, losing seven of eight fixtures, finishing third-bottom.

Thus, Clark would certainly be worth Rangers taking a punt on, a move that the 20-year-old may find even more attractive, if a certain Steven Gerrard is re-appointed manager.

Rangers can revive Tavernier by hiring manager who's "a level above Gerrard"

As the 49ers continue their search to find a new Rangers manager, they should hire “one of the most promising coaches in world football”.

May 2, 2025

Arsenal are in “ongoing” transfer discussions with a forward via agents, as sporting director Andrea Berta and manager Mikel Arteta continue their planning for the summer transfer window.

Arsenal braced for historic Champions League night at Real Madrid

While their recruitment plans for next season are beginning to be put into focus, Arteta and co’s current first priority is preparing for what could be an historic Champions League night at the Bernabeu.

Arsenal: £200k-p/w star holds exit talks with Arteta very likely to lose him

His departure would give the Gunners boss a major headache.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 15, 2025

Arsenal hold a 3-0 aggregate lead over Real Madrid heading into their quarter-final second leg, courtesy of two sensational free-kicks from Declan Rice and Mikel Merino’s superb finish at the Emirates this time last week.

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

April 23rd

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

Los Blancos must now mount a major comeback to stand any hope of keeping their Champions League hopes alive, but it is only half-time and Carlo Ancelotti’s side still pose a serious threat.

It is by some distance Arsenal’s most crucial game of the entire season so far, and it has the power to make or break their campaign after they conceded defeat to Liverpool in the Premier League title race.

Nothing less than perfect will do against Europe’s most feared side on away turf, with potential victory against Real also coming as a real statement to the rest of the continent that Arsenal are now among it’s truly elite teams.

A good run in the Champions League will also pay dividends when it comes to attracting their top transfer targets when the window reopens, with Berta planning to sign multiple attackers for Arsenal after being appointed as their new sporting director.

This reportedly includes a left-winger, right-winger and striker (GiveMeSport), with many interesting names becoming linked to joining Arteta as we approach what will be a “big” summer for Arsenal, by Arteta’s own admission.

In the last few days, it has emerged that Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman is becoming a more serious target for Arsenal.

Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg first reported the Frenchman is being viewed as an alternative to Leroy Sané, and Arsenal are among the favourites to strike a deal for Coman.

Now, the same journalist has shared another update on the 28-year-old’s future involving Arsenal.

Arsenal in "ongoing" talks with Bayern Munich star Kingsley Coman

Plettenberg reports that Coman’s representatives are in “ongoing” talks over a potential move to Arsenal, while Bayern are set to replace the winger, eight years after he completed a permanent move to Bayern from Juventus for around £18 million.

“There is contact between Arsenal and Kingsley Coman’s management, with both sides in ongoing communication,” wrote Plettenberg.

“Arsenal are aware that Saudi Arabia is a very appealing option for Coman, but they have expressed their interest. Coman and Bayern are expected to part ways in the summer. The situation is positive, with open dialogue between all parties. Coman will be replaced.”

The former PSG forward has featured regularly under Vincent Kompany this campaign, heading into double digits for goals and assists combined, but he’s been in and out of the starting eleven amid fierce competition for places.

The Premier League appears a viable move as he hits the prime of his career, with Tottenham also believed to be expressing an interest in Coman this summer.

An Ipswich Town player who Kieran McKenna loves looks set to leave Portman Road over the coming months.

Ipswich Town suffer damaging Premier League defeat to Wolves

After an incredible Championship promotion campaign last year, the Tractor Boys look set for an immediate return to the second tier over the coming weeks.

McKenna’s side appeared to be on course for another much-needed Premier League win over Wolves on Saturday before two second-half goals saw the visitors leave with three points and extend their gap over Ipswich to 12 points.

McKenna could be brewing his next Hutchinson in “special” Ipswich star

Kieran McKenna could get more out of this Ipswich Town ace in the Championship.

ByKelan Sarson Apr 7, 2025

With just seven games remaining, Ipswich may soon be preparing for life back in the Championship alongside the likes of Southampton and Leicester City.

Axel Tuanzebe (option of a further year)

Cameron Burgess

Massimo Luongo

A drop in division could also see a number of stars leave, including striker Liam Delap. The forward is wanted by a plethora of top flight clubs, but, as can be seen, three Portman Road players could exit for nothing over the coming months.

Now, one of those appears to be close to finding his next club.

Cameron Burgess close to leaving Ipswich Town for Spain

As per reports from Spain, relayed by Sport Witness, Ipswich Town defender Cameron Burgess could be on his way to La Liga side Girona. It is claimed that a move is already advanced, with Burgess keen to try a new experience in Spain.

Burgess has been on the books at Portman Road since 2021 after joining from Accrington Stanley and has helped Ipswich up into the Premier League.

He came in for praise from McKenna back in 2022, who called Burgess “excellent” ahead of his first Ipswich start under the current manager.

“I spoke on Tuesday night about Cam Burgess; how he’s conducted himself and applied himself over the last couple of months that I’ve been here.

“He’s been excellent so I’m happy for him that he’s going to get his opportunity to play on Saturday and then obviously in some more games going forward.

“When you train how Cameron trains, which is to a really high intensity with a really high level of focus every day, I don’t think in the centre-back position there’s going to be too many issues. Physically, he showed that he was able to step into the intensity of the game because that’s the intensity he works at every day.

“Cameron is fully attuned with our key principles on and off the ball, and the requirements for his role in different phases of the game. I know with Cam that he’ll be looking forward to it and that he’s a strong personality so we have every confidence in him.”

Now, it looks as if a move away from Portman Road to La Liga could be on the cards for Burgess, who has featured 17 times for Ipswich in 2024/25.

Leeds United is currently the home to various talents who have made their names across Europe before moving to Elland Road over the last couple of seasons.

Brenden Aaronson is just one player who cost big money to secure a move for his signature, costing a fee in the region of £25m during their final season in the Premier League back in 2022/23.

The American has so far failed to demonstrate why the hierarchy forked out such a hefty fee for his signature, struggling to make a real impact under Daniel Farke in recent weeks.

Whilst he scored the opener against Swansea City last weekend, it was only his second goal contribution of the calendar year, struggling to produce any tangible results in their hunt for Championship promotion.

He’s since been unable to match the levels produced by one player who starred in Yorkshire after his own transfer from the Swans multiple years ago.

Pablo Hernandez’s stats for Leeds United

Over the years, Leeds has been the home to countless icons, with Pablo Hernandez undoubtedly cementing himself as a modern-day hero for his heroics at Elland Road.

The Spaniard originally moved on loan from Swansea back in 2016/17, before joining permanently in the January of that campaign after impressing in the first half of the season.

Such a move would be the springboard for his success with the Whites, with Hernandez going on to register 36 goals and 41 assists from 175 outings, helping the club lift the Championship title at the close of the 2019/20 campaign.

He was a pivotal part of Marcelo Bielsa’s side that season, remaining a key member of the squad the following year as the club ended their long wait for Premier League football.

Whilst he left the club back in 2021, current boss Farke already has his own version of the fan-favourite, playing a vital role in their own ambitions of returning to the top flight.

The player who’s become Farke’s own Hernandez at Leeds

The plethora of attacking talent on the books at Leeds has contributed to their phenomenal attacking record, which has seen them score 78 times in the league this season – by far the highest tally in the division.

Joel Piroe has been central to such a record, netting 15 league goals to date, a tally which is the highest within the current first-team squad – producing key goals at various moments.

The Dutchman arrived in a £10m deal from Swansea back in the summer of 2023, following in Hernandez’s footsteps in joining from the Welsh outfit and having an immediate impact in Yorkshire.

The similarities to Hernandez continue, with the 25-year-old also able to feature in the number ten role, as seen in certain matches this season, with the “superb” star, as dubbed by one analyst, key to the club’s recent success.

During his final Championship campaign in Yorkshire, the Spaniard notched a total of 18 combined goals and assists back in 2019/20 – cementing himself as a key member of Bielsa’s squad.

Piroe has already registered a combined 21 contributions with seven matches remaining this campaign, with any hope of securing promotion potentially down to whether he can continue to produce the goods in the final third.

Joel Piroe

21

Daniel James

19

Manor Solomon

14

Brenden Aaronson

11

Wilfried Gnonto

11

Mateo Joseph

6

Largie Ramazani

6

He’s been subject to criticism in recent times, but it’s safe to say the club wouldn’t be in this current position without his goals, certainly playing a key role in their promotion ambitions.

Whilst it’s unclear whether he will be able to cut it in the Premier League, Piroe has a huge job to catapult the side into the top flight between now and the end of the season.

His goals could provide the difference over the next couple of weeks, with the Dutchman able to cement his place in the Whites’ history books should he produce the goods and fire them back to England’s top-division.

Huge upgrade on Meslier: Leeds big move for "world-class" GK

Leeds United could land a player who could end Illan Meslier’s time at Elland Road.

ByEthan Lamb Apr 1, 2025

Despite spending over £200m on new additions during the summer transfer window, Manchester United have still found themselves short on quality in the midfield department.

Ruben Amorim has made it clear he wants added quality in such an area in the months, especially considering the current situation he’s presented with in the Premier League.

Casemiro has started 13 out of a possible 15 games in the league this campaign, but the Brazilian looks set to leave the Red Devils next summer when his current contract expires.

Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo are two other options in such an area, but they have both started two combined league matches in the 2025/26 campaign to date.

As a result, the hierarchy have been hunting for a player to operate at the heart of the side, which could see an excellent partnership being formed in the near future.

United’s potential midfield partnership after January

In an attempt to bolster United’s midfield, INEOS have been on the hunt for added reinforcements, which has led to Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson becoming their main target.

The 23-year-old has been in phenomenal form during the ongoing campaign, even topping numerous rankings in the Premier League compared to other players in his position.

He’s won possession on 126 occasions in England’s top-flight to date, with no other player managing to do so over 100 times – subsequently showing his ball-winning capabilities.

Anderson certainly would offer the perfect deep-lying option, something which Amorim has desired, but any deal would be a club record with Forest demanding a fee in the region of £100m.

Such a move would be a huge investment from the hierarchy, but it would also allow captain Bruno Fernandes to have the partner he’s craved in the middle of the park.

The Portuguese international has operated in a deep-lying position in 2025/26, but has still managed to star in possession, as seen by his tally of ten combined goals and assists in the Premier League.

He’s also constantly offered a creative source for the Red Devils, as seen by his tally of 3.1 chances created per 90 – the best tally of any player in the division at present.

A partnership of Anderson and Bruno would likely be one of the best in England’s top-flight, which could allow the club to finally challenge for a title once again.

The United star who’s a hybrid of Anderson & Bruno

United’s work in the transfer market over the last couple of years has certainly raised eyebrows across the division, with the hierarchy wasting huge funds on countless players.

Over £800m has been splashed in the last four years alone, which has seen numerous players fail to deliver and resulted in a measly 15th-place finish last campaign.

However, Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system requires a very specific type of midfield pairing, which has led to the rumours of a big-money move to land Anderson in the coming weeks.

It would be yet another huge addition made by the board, but one that could set the first-team up for many years, especially considering his tender age, which could see him explode into life in the years ahead.

A player of Bruno’s calibre is also extremely rare in the modern game and would likely cost a pretty penny, but it appears the Red Devils have already got ahead of the curve.

In recent weeks, they completed the €1m (£750k) addition of 17-year-old midfielder Cristian Orozco from Colombian side Fortaleza, with the teenager set to join the academy squad.

The move for the youngster has certainly taken a few supporters by surprise, but it’s one that could allow them to have a huge talent in the future at Old Trafford.

Despite his tender age, he’s already been a star for his boyhood club, which has led to him featuring at the U17 World Cup for his nation – even catching the eye of many people.

Orozco has been dubbed “a midfield destroyer” by one analyst, with his showing against El Salvador last month highlighting why he would be the perfect hybrid of Anderson and Bruno.

Minutes played

90

Touches

107

Pass accuracy

75%

Passes completed

63

Tackles made

2

Duels won

9

Recoveries made

9

Dribbles completed

2

The teenager produced a superb defensive performance on the international stage, subsequently making two tackles and coming out on top in nine of the duels that he entered.

Such figures showcase his remarkable ball-winning ability, something which has made Anderson such a desirable target for the Red Devils in the last couple of months.

Regaining possession is one thing, but the youngster has also thrived with the ball at his feet – subsequently producing numbers that Bruno would be proud of.

In the same game, he completed 67 passes at a completion rate of 75% – with such numbers reflecting his incredible ability to find his teammates when driving forward with the ball.

There’s no doubt that Orozco has a long way to go in his development before he nails down a starting role at Old Trafford, but there’s little denying that the club have secured a top young talent.

His numbers from his recent showings at international level showcase his incredible talents, with the teenager having all of the tools to be the perfect hybrid of Anderson and Bruno.

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Liverpool head coach Arne Slot is expected to have retained the backing of FSG after a woeful start to the 2025/26 campaign, but the credit chequed into the bank is fast depleting as the champions flatter to deceive on the problem-solving front.

Soft, slow and stodgy, this is not the Liverpool we know. Slot’s Liverpool, last year, were a dangerous beast, so incisive and unforgiving as they secured toward the Premier League title.

But, nine losses from 14 matches in all competitions and just two wins from nine in the top flight have eradicated any hopes of challenging Arsenal for the trophy this season.

And it’s put Slot’s job on the line.

Why Liverpool could sack Arne Slot

Liverpool managed to avoid defeat at home against Sunderland on Wednesday evening, but the 1-1 draw, secured when Florian Wirtz’s fleet footwork forced an own goal from Nordi Mukiele late on, smacked of desperation.

You would be hard pressed to delineate Liverpool’s tactical identity under Slot’s wing this season. Their shape in the build-up. Their pressing patterns and attacking strategies.

It is damning that so much has been spent on strikers like Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike, and that number nine is a barren patch at Anfield, with the supply line proving ineffective.

Wirtz needs to do better, but there’s no question that he’s a world-class talent with so much potential yet untapped.

However, this breadth of quality at Slot’s disposal means he simply has to work out a formula for results and impressive performances, with both in short supply.

If the Dutch tactician fails to get a tune out of this squad of elite, big-money players, he will eventually be dismissed by FSG, who might already have their sights set on a replacement.

The perfect Slot replacement at Liverpool

Michael Edwards and sporting director Richard Hughes know they and Liverpool’s wider project will lose face if they have to dismiss Slot, but if push comes to shove, they might just do so if it means they can appoint Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso.

Alonso, 44, acheived unprecedented success with Bayer Leverkusen, winning the Bundesliga as undefeated champions in 2023/24, claiming the DFB-Pokal title too.

This road led to the Santiago Bernabeu, the Spaniard joining the club he played so much football for during his playing career this summer.

However, Alonso also has quite the connection with Anfield, and given the troubles that are plaguing Los Blancos at the moment, FSG may well be primed to pounce if an opportunity to appoint this exciting Slot replacement materialises.

Liverpool did explore a move for Alonso after Jurgen Klopp announced he would be stepping down at the end of the 2023/24 campaign, but he was in the thick of his Leverkusen tenure and did not feel the time for a step-up was right.

His 3-4-2-1 formation is unconventional, but Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has shown that such a set-up can work out in the Premier League, when in the right hands.

Real Madrid

26

2.35

Bayer Leverkusen

140

2.14

Real Sociedad B

98

1.46

Given that Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong worked under him in Germany, hitting such staggering heights, it could also prove the perfect appointment to get the best out of Liverpool’s immensely talented playmaker.

Wirtz, 22, has not hit the ground running at Liverpool, but the system has hardly opened its arms for such a player. In fact, most of Liverpool’s top players have foundered this season.

Even so, the German international ranks among the top 3% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Premier League this season for shot-creating actions and the top 5% for passes attempted and progressive passes per 90, as per FBref.

Alonso will surely get a tune out of a player he described as “a genius” during their time with Die Werkself.

Wirtz once said that “working with Alonso is a dream”. He lived that dream, and he may do so again before long, with the Spanish manager sure to be at the top of FSG’s wishlist, if Slot is indeed sacked in the coming months.

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