All posts by z3u9t.icu

Following on from their 5-0 bashing of Manchester United in the Premier League at the weekend, Liverpool are back in Carabao Cup action this evening with a trip to Deepdale to face Championship club Preston North End as they look to progress further in the competition.

Ahead of the match against Preston, Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders revealed that Fabinho, Naby Keita, James Milner, Harvey Elliott, Thiago Alcantara are all likely to miss the match in midweek through individual injuries.

Lijnders also explained that goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher will miss the game as well.

Taking all of this into account, here’s how we feel Liverpool will line up this evening…

In goal, with Kelleher out, it seems likely now that we will see Adrian, who hasn’t played a game for the Reds so far this season in any competition, start with Alisson likely to be given a rest.

For the defence, Neco Williams could play in the right-back position with Joe Gomez and Nat Phillips occupying the centre-back positions and Kostas Tsimikas returning at left-back.

Jurgen Klopp’s first-choice backline all receive a break from action.

Elsewhere in midfield, with the number of injuries they currently have, we think Liverpool will have to put Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Curtis Jones in the team against Preston with Tyler Morton given a chance to shine after he came on as a substitute in their previous Carabao Cup match against Norwich City.

Up top, Klopp could stick with the same front three that started against Norwich in their 3-0 win back in September with Takumi Minamino and Divock Origi playing alongside 17-year-old winger Kaide Gordon, who signed his first professional contract with the Merseyside club earlier this month.

This would allow the likes of Diogo Jota, Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino to have a rest ahead of their next Premier League outing this weekend against Brighton & Hove Albion.

Moving forward, this match against Preston, this not only gives Liverpool the chance to get through to the next stage of the competition but also gives some of their fringe squad players the chance to show their worth, rest some of their senior players and give the injured players time to recover.

In other news: Klopp could save LFC millions by unleashing 21 y/o “leader”, he’s VVD’s heir apparent…

Newcastle United have been scouting Fenerbahce powerhouse Attila Szalai ahead of a potential move in the summer transfer window…

What’s the story?

The Chronicle have revealed that the Magpies are keen on bolstering the centre of their defence this summer, and while the likes of Sven Botman and Diego Carlos remain on the table in terms of potential options, Szalai’s name also figures prominently.

The report said: “Attila Szalai of Fenerbahce is another centre-back Newcastle have been tracking and one that may be prepared to battle for his place with pressure eased in the heart of defence by the January arrival of Dan Burn.

“Toon scouts have been present to watch Szalai in recent games but have been joined by Aston Villa and notably Milan who also like the Hungary international. Newcastle already have a direct link to Szalai’s agency ROGON who look after Joelinton.”

Ideal Botman alternative for Newcastle

At a height of 6 foot 4, Szalai is a fearsome presence at the back, and if he were to arrive at St James’ Park this summer, the Magpies would boast a truly towering a centre-back partnership with him alongside 6 foot 8 Dan Burn.

Hailed by former Fenerbahce boss Emre Belozoglu as “exemplary” and with the “loudest voice in training”, Szalai possesses all the raw physical attributes to become a real force in the Premier League.

The centre-back has been a consistent performer for Fenerbahce this season, averaging 1.2 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per game in the Turkish Super Lig. His numbers fare even better when considering his displays in the Europa League, in which he averaged 1.8 tackles and 1.3 interceptions per match.

To put that into context, both his tackling and interception numbers are significantly better than pretty much all of Newcastle’s centre-backs this season in the Premier League, with only Fabian Schar averaging slightly more interceptions at just 1.4 per game.

Given that AC Milan still appear to be in pole position in the race to sign Botman, Newcastle could certainly do a lot worse than going after Szalai this summer.

AND in other news – Newcastle “win battle to sign” 5 foot 11 “huge talent”, Howe will be buzzing

A number of Manchester United supporters are pleased after Dean Henderson was linked with a loan move to Eredivisie giants Ajax in January.

A new era has got underway at Old Trafford, with Ralf Rangnick winning his first game in charge against Crystal Palace on Sunday afternoon.

With a winnable run of fixtures coming up, there is a feeling that United could build some momentum and get themselves back in the Premier League top four.

[freshpress-poll id=“378953″]

One player who hasn’t featured much at all this season is Henderson, with the goalkeeper finding himself behind David De Gea in the pecking order and making just one solitary Carabao Cup appearance.

According to Manchester Evening News’ Samuel Luckhurst on Twitter, the Englishman could move to Ajax on loan next month in order to enjoy more playing time.

Man United fans react to Henderson rumour

These United fans have been reacting positively to the rumour on Twitter.

“This would be class for Deano, he needs it”

Credit: @MufcKeaneo

“Would be very good for him”

Credit: @Fergie1boy

“This is perfect for him”

Credit: @ezxreal_

“Will be a good move for him imo”

Credit: @UtdSwizz

“Then we can get Ten Hag next year”

Credit: @Abhishek_Utd31

“YESSSSS! Very good for his development. Just on loan please. He can definitely at some point become the United number 1.”

Credit: @nerdz_am

In other news, one United player could reportedly remain at Old Trafford. Find out who it is here.

Tottenham Hotspur chief Fabio Paratici is said to hugely admire Adama Traore ahead of the January transfer window…

What’s the word?

In recent weeks, the north London outfit have been linked with a move for the Wolverhampton Wanderers winger, with the Telegraph’s Matt Law first revealing their interest.

The ever-reliable Alasdair Gold of football.london has since provided another claim in a recent Q&A with supporters.

“Paratici likes Traore and wanted to sign him at Juventus in the past and he’s got 18 months left now on his contract. I’d imagine a deal next month though would be difficult to do and still pricey.

“Personally, I said in the summer that while Traore scares defences with his running and strength, his end product is mostly dreadful. Since then he’s recorded a total of zero goals and zero assists in his 19 matches in all competitions this season. My opinion, not that it means much, obviously hasn’t changed.”

However, according to ESPN, the Old Gold are willing to accept as little as £18m for him, despite being valued at £25.2m by Transfermarkt.

Sign him up!

The 25-year-old’s poor end product should be the least of Conte’s concerns, after all, that’s why he has Heung-min Son and Harry Kane at his disposal. It’s the havoc he can create that’ll allow the duo to thrive even more.

Just like he did last season, the Wolves attacker leads the division for dribbles per game (4.7). That’s way more than players like Mo Salah, Wilfried Zaha and Spurs’ Lucas Moura.

He is also averaging 1.1 key passes per game, which suggests he’s more of a creative talent than one that needs to find the back of the net.

His brute strength and physicality is surely something that Conte would love to have in his squad, especially as he’s a perfect fit for his system as the Spain international can play right-wing, as an inside-forward, up top and at right wing-back.

“He’s a machine. I was watching him pre-game and he could be a powerlifter or a cruiser-weight boxer – he’s huge,” Rio Ferdinand once told BT Sport (via BirminghamLive), whilst Southampton forward Che Adams dubbed him a “monster” to the Premier League’s official YouTube channel.

Meanwhile, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has often deemed him to be “unplayable”, which is rather telling of his ability in the big games and would suggest that his lack of end product isn’t hindering to his overall talent.

On the above evidence, Traore would be a fine addition to Conte’s unbeaten Spurs side. If Paratici and co really want him, then £18m isn’t a stretch, especially in January.

AND in other news, Conte can finally axe Spurs’ “freak of a talent” by signing “explosive” £27m-rated gem…

Manchester United have not been making much progress in terms of incoming players during this transfer window so far, but that could all be about to change with a fee reportedly agreed with Ralf Rangnick to bring a star player to Old Trafford.

What’s the word?

The Mirror have reported that interim manager, Rangnick, has verbally agreed a £33m fee with RB Leipzig for Amadou Haidara, who is currently away at AFCON representing Mali.

According to the report, Manchester United are not the only club chasing down the Bundesliga star, with Newcastle United interested in securing his signature by the end of the transfer window.

With that being said, Rangnick is reportedly keen to sign the player from his former club and is high on his wish list, as the German coach remains keen to bolster his midfield options at Old Trafford this month, according to The Mirror.

However, the Premier League giants are yet to make an official bid for Haidara, and as a result run the risk of losing the player to another club.

Fans will be buzzing

The fact that any progress, even a verbal agreement, has been made for new players to join Manchester United this month will come as a huge relief to fans of the club, with the side dropping points in their last two games that has now made their race for a top four spot seem even further out of reach, with West Ham United currently five points ahead in fourth and if they win this afternoon, the Hammers could go eight points clear of them.

Fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts on the potential signing of Haidara, with many desperate to welcome the 23 year old to the club, one fan tweeted: “Haidara is such a beautiful talent man. Man United need him I swear.”

Haidara offers versatility in his position which is something Manchester United desperately need from their players, especially in Rangnick’s 4-2-2-2 formation.

From his defensive midfield position, he offers fantastic offensive attributes, scoring two goals in 13 appearances, and has been successful in 72% of his dribbles this season so far in the Bundesliga, proving that he is effective in being progressive in his play, which is essential for the pressing style Rangnick adopts at Man United.

With Newcastle also reportedly keen to sign the young Malian midfielder, it is imperative that Rangnick moves fast to secure his signature at Old Trafford during this transfer window. Should he move then fans will be delighted.

In other news: Offer rejected for Andreas Pereira from Flamengo

Manchester United’s proposed move for Ajax manager Erik ten Hag is now in the final stages, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Verbal agreement

The Athletic’s David Ornstein shared a huge development on Tuesday evening regarding the 52-year-old moving to Old Trafford.

He revealed that the Red Devils had reached a verbal agreement with Ten Hag and now need to reach a deal with Ajax.

No announcement is expected this week due to Ajax’s Dutch Cup final against PSV Eindhoven, alathough Romano has shared what he knows on the situation.

The Latest: Romano’s update

Romano took to Twitter shortly after Ornstein, confirming his information. The transfer guru added that Ten Hag’s backroom staff still needs to be decided and shared details of a €2m (£1.67m) clause:

“Sources close to Erik ten Hag confirm David Ornstein report: his appointment as new Man United manager is at final stages.

“Nothing signed yet – back room staff to be decided. No announcement expected this week. Ajax and Man Utd will be in contact about €2m clause.”

The Verdict: Getting closer…

It looks as if it is just a matter of time until United can formally reveal Ten Hag as Ralf Rangnick’s long-term successor.

Of course, everything can still change, but it does appear that the Red Devils will get their man, with whom they held ‘positive’ talks last month.

Finalising a move before the end of the season will give Ten Hag and United the best possible chance of making the right decisions over the summer with regards to incomings and outgoings, instead of those calls being rushed should he have arrived during the summer window.

In other news: ‘Interesting’ Man Utd news has pundit talking; says Leeds supporters ‘will be devastated’

The international break has given Celtic a couple of weeks to rest and recharge ahead of an important run of games as Ange Postecoglou attempts to reclaim the Scottish Premiership crown from Rangers this season.

It gives a chance for players with injuries to recover and get themselves fit for the clash with Motherwell in the Premiership on the 16th.

What it also does is afford players the opportunity to go away with their country and put in strong performances away from Celtic to show Postecoglou that they deserve more minutes at club level.

One player who had a chance to benefit from this was Tom Rogic as he featured for Australia against Oman in a World Cup Qualifier on Thursday night.

This is particularly pertinent due to Postecoglou’s connection with the country, having managed the nation for four years after growing up in Australia despite being born in Greece.

The £16k-per-week midfielder, Rogic, has only started four of Celtic’s Premiership matches this term and has averaged 46 minutes per game across his eight appearances.

This comes after he started ten times in the league last season, featuring off the bench in a further 13 games. He has, however, started both of Celtic’s Europa League matches this season, averaging a dismal SofaScore rating of 6.40 against Real Betis and Bayer Leverkusen – creating zero chances.

So, did Rogic do enough against Oman to show Postecoglou, who may well have been cheering on his country, that he deserves more starts in the Premiership this season?

Unfortunately, he didn’t as he put in a worrying display for Australia despite their 3-1 win.

As per SofaScore, Rogic lost 100% of his duels on the pitch in 63 minutes. He lost his one ground duel and made zero tackles, interceptions, clearances or blocks. The attacking midfielder also gave away possession 12 times from 29 touches of the ball – once every 2.4 touches.

To his credit, Rogic did produce one moment of magic in the match. He made an impressive burst into the box and cut the ball back to a teammate, who saw his shot saved and rebounded by Martin Boyle to score the second of their three goals.

However, that was his only key pass of the match as he failed with both of his cross attempts and his only long ball attempt, whilst completing just 67% of his passes.

Rogic may have shown a glimpse of quality in the build-up to the second goal, but the underlying statistics around his performance do not suggest that Postecoglou will be desperate to hand him more starts after watching his display. Therefore, the Australian failed to grasp his opportunity to impress.

AND in other news,  Celtic could have a new Turnbull in rarely-seen 19 y/o who’s an “outstanding talent”…

Rangers’ title hopes suffered a hammer blow on Sunday as they lost 2-1 to their Glasgow arch-rivals at Ibrox.

Aaron Ramsey put Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side in front after just three minutes, but Tom Rogic quickly pegged the hosts back before Cameron Carter-Vickers scored what proved to be the winner shortly before half-time.

The defeat leaves Rangers six points adrift of the league-leading Hoops with just six games left to play.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/rangers-news-2/” title=”Rangers news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

Here at The Transfer Tavern, we delve into the three worst-rated starting outfielders for the Gers as per statistical specialists SofaScore, with players required to feature for at least 45 minutes for ranking. This trio were dribbled past six times and collectively lost possession 60 times on an afternoon to forget.

Leon Balogun – 6.4/10

Balogun made just his second league start in the Gers’ last seven matches, but the figures suggest that he failed to deliver on the big occasion.

He lost half of his ground duels (two out of four) and half of his aerial battles (four out of eight), with Celtic players able to dribble past him on two occasions. He also gave away possession 12 times and misplaced 10 of the 52 passes that he attempted (nearly 20%).

John Lundstram – 6.6/10

Unlike Balogun, Lundstram has been very much in favour recently, with this his sixth start in seven league matches. Perhaps his place in the team won’t be as secure after this showing, though.

The headline for the midfielder was that he made the error leading to Carter-Vickers’ goal. The former Sheffield United man was unable to clear, and Rangers were duly punished.

Beyond that, he was dribbled past once, lost three ground duels (42.8%) and turned the ball over 10 times.

James Tavernier 6.7/10

Gers captain Tavernier is generally one of the first names on the teamsheet but he didn’t quite make the impact that he would have desired on Sunday.

The right-back gave the ball away a whopping 38 times, at least 15 more than anybody else on the pitch, while only two of the 17 crosses he attempted during the game were accurate.

Unfortunately, he also led the way in the undesirable ‘dribbled past’ stakes (on three) and lost eight of his 15 duels overall (53%).

In other news, Rangers have also been dealt an off-field blow.

Sunderland have been dealt a fresh blow as Lee Johnson gave some injury news on Aiden McGeady.

The Lowdown: Still missing…

The 35-year-old has not played for the Black Cats since November, with three goals and four assists in 14 League One games so far this season (Transfermarkt).

He had only missed most of his appearances, clearly showing how much Johnson rates him and how important he is to the team.

The Latest: McGeady setback

As per The Chronicle, Johnson has now given an update on McGeady’s injury, and unfortunately does not think that the Republic of Ireland veteran is close to returning to the pitch in a Sunderland shirt.

The manager revealed: “I wouldn’t say he is close at the moment. How long he’ll be exactly I don’t know, but I think it will certainly be at least four to six weeks.”

The Verdict: Blow for Sunderland

It would certainly be a big blow if the Black Cats were to be without McGeady for another six weeks. While they have been doing well without him recently, as they are currently unbeaten in their last six League One games and sitting in the promotion spots, their luck could run out sooner rather than later.

Virus cases within clubs seem to be a lottery at the moment, as Sunderland’s scheduled match against Fleetwood Town tpday was postponed due to cases in the opposition’s camp, so Johnson could find his squad more depleted as the season goes on.

Therefore, players like McGeady – who has been ranked by WhoScored as the Wearsiders’ fourth-best player so far this term – will surely be needed for the promotion push.

Described as ‘unbelievable’ by former Republic of Ireland teammate David Meyler, McGeady still has quality despite being 35 years of age, and he will certainly be a miss in the next few matches for Sunderland.

In other news, this transfer latest has had many Black Cats fans buzzing

Celtic have been dealt a major injury blow ahead of their upcoming Europa League fixture.

What’s the latest?

According to a report by the Daily Record, Celtic centre-back Stephen Welsh looks set to miss out on the Bhoys’ trip to Bayer Leverkusen this Thursday after the defender was withdrawn during the Scottish League Cup semi-final against St. Johnstone on Saturday due to injury.

The defender’s knock came in the 76th-minute of the cup clash, with the 21-year-old being on the receiving end of a Shaun Rooney elbow which saw the St Johnstone defender pick up a yellow card – although Sky Sports reported at the time that the 25-year-old was lucky not to be shown a red.

Major blow

Considering just how dangerous Rooney’s elbow quite evidently was, it would not appear to be an exaggeration to suggest that the decision to only award the right-back a yellow card was something of a shocker by referee Nick Walsh.

Indeed, speaking to Premier Sports, the former Celtic centre-forward, John Hartson, said of the incident: “I think his elbow is up. When you watch it back and slow it down; and obviously Stephen Welsh is caught heavy because he has had to come off. But that for me I think in today’s game, with the rules that referees have to adhere to, he is a very lucky boy not to get a red card.”

Derek McInnes then added: “If that is in England it’s a red card once the referee has reviewed that, so he is lucky. Obviously, the boy Welsh has had to come off and I hope it’s nothing serious for him.”

However, despite the former Aberdeen manager’s hopes, it does indeed look to have been a rather serious injury for Welsh, as the defender now appears set to be out of contention for Celtic’s crucial European tie on Thursday evening.

This will undoubtedly come as a major blow to Ange Postecoglou, as the 56-year-old has now been left with just three fit senior options in the position, two of whom – Osaze Urhoghide and Liam Scales – have made a total of three appearances in all competitions for the Bhoys so far this season, something that would appear to considerably dent Celtic’s chances of picking up all three points from the fixture.

In other news: “I saw..”: Journo drops exciting claim on “dream” Celtic target, he’d be a big coup