All posts by z3u9t.icu

Glasgow Rangers head coach Russell Martin has admitted that Hamza Igamane was unable to come on against St Mirren after informing the manager that he was unfit to play.

Speaking after the game, the Gers boss said: “I turned around to him at 60 minutes and Hamza told me he’s injured. I have to trust him, but we’ll see.”

“The issue is that the window is still open and there are people with one eye out and one eye in We had a bid this week for Hamza that we rejected. There are too many people uncertain and we have to make sure we have people that want to be here. I’m calm about it.”

Igamane was called to come off the bench in the second half, with the Gers 1-0 down to St Mirren, but declined the call, citing injury, and these comments from Martin do not suggest that an injury was the only factor at play.

The “we’ll see” and the talk of rejecting a bid for the striker, as well as players who are “uncertain” about their future seems to suggest that a possible move away from Ibrox may have influenced the decision.

Hopefully, that was not the case, and it was purely an injury concern and only that, but the window is still open for another week and the possibility that Igamane moves on from the club remains a real one.

Why losing Hamza Igamane would be a blow for Rangers

Cashing in on the Morocco international before the end of the summer transfer window would be a blow for the Light Blues because he is an exciting young talent who has the quality to deliver at the top end of the pitch.

The 22-year-old star enjoyed a terrific first season in Glasgow after his move to Ibrox last summer, scoring 16 goals in 46 appearances in all competitions for the Scottish giants, per Transfermarkt.

His output in the Scottish Premiership, in particular, was impressive. The Moroccan star showed that he can be a clinical finisher whilst also providing a creative presence in the centre-forward position, or out wide on the left.

Appearances

33

Starts

23

xG

9.02

Goals

12

Chances created

37

xA

4.85

Assists

1

As you can see in the table above, Igamane outperformed his xG by around three goals and was let down by his teammates in front of goal, as they failed to make the most of the high-quality chances that he created for them.

An xA tally of 4.85 suggests that he should have had way more than one assist in the top-flight, and shows that he has the creativity and quality to open up opposition defences fairly regularly.

Losing Igamane would be a big blow, therefore, for Martin because of his quality in the final third, but the Gers are reportedly keen on a star who could allow the club to sanction an exit before the deadline.

Rangers eyeing move for LaLiga forward

According to the Daily Mail, Glasgow Rangers are lining up a move to bring Girona centre-forward Bojan Miovski to Ibrox before the end of the window.

The report claims that the Macedonia international is out of favour at Girona, 12 months on from his transfer from Aberdeen for a fee of £6.8m, and could be on his way out of the Spanish side in the coming days.

Transfer Focus

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

It adds that Martin is a known admirer of the striker, who he wanted to sign during his time at Swansea and Southampton in Wales and England, and would like to snap him up to bolster his attack at Ibrox.

The Daily Mail reveals that the player and Girona would prefer a permanent deal to allow him to leave, but that Rangers cannot afford a permanent move for the star who cost around £7m last year.

It is said that, therefore, a loan deal for Miovski may be the route the Gers look to go down, and that the player could be tempted by the prospect of a return to Scotland.

Why this could be the end for Hamza Igamane at Rangers

Rangers have played with systems that either have one striker or none in all of their competitive matches so far, something which has been a theme for Martin throughout his career.

In their striker ranks, the Gers currently have Danilo, Cyriel Dessers, and Igamane at their disposal. This suggests that they would not be looking to add another centre-forward to the group unless they thought that one of them would move on.

Given what happened against St Mirren, what Martin said, and the interest in his services, Igamane could be the player who waves bye-bye to Ibrox before the window slams shut in order to open up the space for Miovski to join.

Losing the Moroccan sensation, as aforementioned, would be a blow to the Gers when taken in isolation, given what he achieved on the pitch in his first year at the club.

The signing of Miovski, a proven performer in the Premiership, would soften that blow because he could come in and hit the ground running as a huge goalscoring threat for Martin.

xG

15.60

17.08

xG on target

18.36

17.60

Goals

16

16

Shots on target

36

44

Chances created

27

23

Assists

2

2

As you can see in the table above, Miovski was a clinical finisher – taking into account the xG on target versus xG – for Aberdeen on his road to scoring 32 goals in two Premiership seasons.

The left-footed star, who was described as a “complete number 9” by journalist Josh Bunting, only started 12 times in LaLiga for Girona last season, scoring twice, and did not really get a chance to build any rhythm or momentum in his performances.

Miovski is a proven performer in the Premiership, though, and his output for Aberdeen in two of the last three seasons suggests that he has the quality to hit the ground running as a lethal goalscorer for Rangers.

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Russell Martin must drop this Rangers lightweight as well as Max Aarons.

ByDan Emery Aug 24, 2025

This is why the club’s interest in the Girona outcast may suggest, along with Sunday’s events, that Igamane could be on his way out of Ibrox before the window shuts, and Miovski could be a dream replacement for him.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have made a slow start to the new season, but may be about to ignite their campaign as they close in on another signing.

Wolves prepare to face West Ham United after poor start

Last weekend proved to be another exercise in frustration for Vitor Pereira as his side lost out 1-0 to Bournemouth on the South Coast, leaving his side above only West Ham United in the Premier League table.

Coincidentally, both clubs will face off in the EFL Cup on Tuesday evening, and their man in the dugout will hope his outfit can learn after claiming they failed to follow his tactical instructions during a narrow defeat at the Vitality Stadium.

He told The Mirror: “Football is like this. You can prepare everything but after four minutes we make a pass in the middle, we build in the middle, we lost the ball and they scored. Before (the goal) we had a big chance to score and we missed it.

“I think this goal creates a negative impact in our team because when I watch the game I was feeling that the team was shy on the pitch and with some difficulties to go out of this pressure.”

With signings needed to spruce up his pool of options, Wolves are on the trail of Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado after he fell down the pecking order under Hansi Flick.

Wolves now "closing in" on £26m deal to sign "dominant" star for Pereira

The Midlands club look set to get their man.

2 ByTom Cunningham Aug 22, 2025

Furthermore, the Old Gold have opened talks to sign Chelsea defender Axel Disasi, which would suggest that adding physicality and solidity are both on the agenda at Molineux, with a deal for Ladislav Krejčí on the verge of being completed to aid that quest.

Rumours are swirling with the business end of the window here and Pereira could now be close to securing some versatility to aid his flailing squad, per recent developments.

Wolves now closing in on Christantus Uche

According to Express & Star reporter Liam Keen on X, Wolves are now closing in on a deal for Getafe midfielder Christantus Uche at around the £17 million mark.

Negotiations continue and there is still work to do before an agreement on personal terms can be reached, but optimism exists internally that he will sign on the dotted line ahead of the close of play.

Labelled “superb” by Jacek Kulig, the versatile star is capable of featuring as a centre-forward or in a variety of midfield roles and started off the season by registering a goal and an assist in Getafe’s recent 2-0 victory over Celta Vigo.

Capped twice by Nigeria, his arrival would be a timely one amid speculation over Jorgen Strand Larsen, though it remains to be seen whether Wolves can finalise a deal over the coming days.

They may have left things late, but Nottingham Forest have finally rediscovered their mood to spend big in recent weeks and Evangelos Marinakis is now reportedly working to complete yet another deal.

Kalimuendo "ready" for Forest challenge

It’s been quite the week for Nottingham Forest. First, Nuno Espirito Santo’s side kicked off their Premier League campaign with a 3-1 victory over Brentford. Then, their attention turned towards incomings. Omari Hutchinson, James McAtee and Arnaud Kalimuendo all arrived as the Tricky Trees took their summer spending to the £149m-mark.

Delighted to put pen to paper, Kalimuendo told Forest’s official website after becoming the latest to arrive: “When I heard about the interest from Forest, I was honoured. This is a proud moment for me, joining a team who had a strong season last year and a Club with great history.

“I’m ready for the challenge, and I arrive here with good experience. I had a good season last year with goals and assists but I want more and want to reach a new level here.

“I can’t wait to play in the Premier League, and to play at the City Ground. I watched games from last season and it’s clear the fans create a beautiful atmosphere. I’m excited to see them and impatient to get started.”

Even after welcoming three new faces in the last week, however, those at the City Ground are still not done on the transfer front. Reports are now suggesting that Marinakis is personally working on one more arrival for Espirito Santo.

Marinakis calling to finalise Luiz deal

According to TuttoSport, as relayed by Sport Witness, Marinakis is now personally calling to finalise a move to sign Douglas Luiz for Nottingham Forest. The Greek owner has reportedly held direct talks with Juventus chief Damien Comolli in an attempt to reach an agreement and potentially bring any deal closer to the €30m (£26m) mark.

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Nottingham Forest target Serie A outcast to partner Morgan Gibbs-White in midfield.

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Marinakis’ hands-on approach to the deal is reportedly proving key for Forest and Luiz is seemingly edging ever closer to returning to the Midlands for the first time since leaving Aston Villa last summer.

Whilst Luiz has struggled at Juventus, it wasn’t so long ago that he was thriving at Villa Park and earning the praise of Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, who said: “He’s a guy who plays all of the minutes.

“He’s an important player for Aston Villa. A guy who’s clever with the ball, so physically strong. He’s a lovely, lovely guy. Today, when he was involved in the game, defensively, offensively, he was good.”

Now, one year on from leaving Villa, he could be about to take the Premier League by storm once again and come back to haunt his former club at a Midlands rival.

Everton manager David Moyes is reportedly weighing up the idea of signing a “special” Premier League player alongside their move for Tyler Dibling this summer.

The Saints teenager has emerged as a leading target for the Blues in the current transfer window, with three bids already rejected for his services by the Championship club.

Now, Southampton chief executive Phil Parsons has produced a bullish update on Dibling’s future, promising that he won’t be sold to Everton for anything below their asking price, which is thought to be around £50m.

“We’re not a club that’s going to roll over and just accept a bid because they feel like they want him on the cheap. If you want a player, bid for them and bid well. If we lose a player, we need to give Johannes (Spors, sporting director) the funds to replace that player. But it’s really been about cleaning up the squad.

“We’ve had a really big squad for a couple of years. That’s when it comes to bringing in academy products because that’s a part of who we are. We have to produce talent from our academy. We’ll see how the window goes, but if Tyler’s here this season, he’ll play for Southampton. He’s not going to sit around. It’s the same for every player.”

He’s not the only talented young British player is being eyed up by the Merseysiders however, following a fresh transfer claim.

Everton eyeing move for "special" Sunderland teenager

According to a new report from TEAMtalk, Everton have “explored a deal” for £40m-rated Sunderland midfielder Chris Rigg, having sent scouts to watch him in action last season. It is claimed that the Blues still see Dibling as their top target, but will follow Rigg’s performances in the Premier League cloesly with Moyes a massive fan of the 18 year-old. Deals for both players could amount to £90m.

Rigg is a player who could have an enormous future in the game, so the idea of him in an Everton shirt alongside Dibling is mouthwatering, even though signing both won’t be easy.

The Sunderland ace is already a key man for the Black Cats at the age of just 18, starting 37 Championship matches last season and being hailed by former teammate Jobe Bellingham after sharing the Young Player of the Year award at the North East Football Writers’ Association Awards.

“I think first and foremost Riggy really deserves it and I’m delighted that we can share it because I think it’s really special. Both of our names will be attached to that forever because I love playing with him. We’ve got a really special bond on and off the pitch, we’re really good mates.”

Dream Dibling alternative: Everton explore move for "phenomenal" £40m teen

Everton are hoping to make another signing or two in the summer transfer market.

ByAngus Sinclair Aug 9, 2025

While some Everton fans will understandably want to see Rigg sign this summer, seeing how he performs over the next year could be more sensibly planning, even though it is risking bigger clubs coming in for him next year.

When Liverpool announced the arrival of Hugo Ekitike earlier this week, it would have been easy to assume that the Reds had ended their search for a striker. But since then, there has been an almighty twist to the tale.

As reported by David Ornstein and the Daily Mail’s Craig Hope, Alexander Isak now wants to leave Newcastle United this summer and explore options elsewhere. The Swede was sent home from the Magpies’ friendly against Celtic amid all the speculation, before being left out of their Asia tour courtesy of a ‘thigh injury’.

However, it has since emerged that Isak was left out of the tour after his request to leave St James’ Park ahead of next season. It’s an undeniable blow for the Magpies – their biggest yet in a summer full of disappointment – but Newcastle’s loss could quickly become Liverpool’s gain.

Liverpool informed Newcastle before signing Ekitike that they were willing to break their club record for the second time this summer to sign Isak in a £120m deal. And whilst that becomes more difficult after splashing out £69m to welcome their new French forward, fresh sales could yet leave Liverpool in dreamland.

With the potential to have both Isak and Ekitike at their disposal, AI assistant Grok has predicted and ranked the different formations that Liverpool could use to incorporate the two forwards.

3 4-4-2 (dual strikers)

The natural way to accommodate two talented strikers would be to play the trusty and reliable 4-4-2. The sytem would be a new one for Arne Slot, but could be one worth playing if he is to get the best out of Isak and Ekitike.

In this formation, Isak would likely take up the role of primary goalscorer whilst Ekitike takes up the job of chief creator. The latter’s task would be to drop slightly deeper into the No.10 role or even the false 9 role that Liverpool fans will know so well from Roberto Firmino’s time at the club and provide the link between midfield and attack.

Isak, meanwhile, would be asked to do the very thing that only Mohamed Salah did better than him in the Premier League last season and that’s score goals. The big questions here, though, would be whether Slot would be willing to sacrifice his numbers in midfield and just where he would find a place for Florian Wirtz.

2 4-2-3-1 (Ekitike as No.10)

There is, of course, another way around this. Liverpool could simply revert to a 4-2-3-1 formation – which they used at times last season to great success – and utilise Ekitike as a No.10. The former Frankfurt forward would then have Isak in front of him and likely Cody Gakpo and Salah beside him.

Suddenly, Slot would have a scintilating front four all featuring at once. The last time that Liverpool had something close to such attacking quality were the few months prior to Philippe Coutinho’s exit when the Brazilian stood alongside Salah, Sadio Mane and Firmino. Years later, however, Anfield could be about to see that front four eclipsed.

Alas, there are some downsides to the 4-2-3-1. Where would Wirtz slot in? Liverpool broke the British transfer record to sign the German and for very good reason. There’s no disputing that he should be an instant starter. What’s more, there would be question marks over Ekitike’s ability to remain consistent as No.10 with such little experience in the role.

The Frenchman would be shoe-horned in more than anything and there’s certainly a better way for Slot to get the best out of every one of his stars if Liverpool sign Isak.

1 4-3-3 (Ekitike wide left)

Another option, and one that Slot is more familiar with, would be a 4-3-3 with Ekitike playing out wide. Forming a front three between Ekitike, Isak and Salah, the Reds would have their best trio since Mane, Firmino and Salah and one that would arguably be capable of putting up similar numbers.

Given that Luis Diaz could yet join Bayern Munich in a big-money deal this summer too, moving Ekitike into his left-wing spot would certainly make sense. There may be some concerns that the Frenchman lacks experience in the role, given that he played just 5% of his minutes at Eintracht Frankfurt on the wing, but he certainly has the creative talent.

With 12 assists to his name last season, Ekitike could provide a similar threat to Cody Gakpo by cutting in from the left-hand side using his physical stature. Isak, meanwhile, would once again benefit from the No.9 role, whilst Wirtz could take his much-needed role in midfield.

In terms of familiarity and player roles, utilising a 4-3-3 looks like the best way that Slot would be able to take a squad full of stars to a second-consecutive Premier League title.

Leeds United officially confirmed the signing of German central midfielder Anton Stach from Bundesliga outfit Hoffenheim as their latest arrival on Tuesday.

The 6 foot 4 enforcer becomes the club’s sixth signing of the summer transfer window after Sean Longstaff, Gabriel Gudmundsson, Jaka Bijol, Lukas Nmecha, and Sebastiaan Bornauw.

Stach, 26, made 3.7 tackles and interceptions per game across 30 outings in the Bundesliga last season, but has joined to compete in a bloated midfield set-up, with Ethan Ampadu, Ilia Gruev, Ao Tanaka, and Longstaff also at the club.

This means that he has not arrived as an essential signing, albeit he may well go on to be a huge success, and that is why the club’s interest in a new goalkeeper could be an even better signing.

Leeds in the race to sign new goalkeeper

It is no secret that Leeds need to improve their options between the sticks, after Illan Meslier was dropped towards the end of last season after he conceded 2.73 more goals than expected, based on xG, and made three errors that directly led to goals.

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 Het Laatste Nieuws, as relayed by TEAMtalk, Leeds United are eyeing up a potential swoop to sign goalkeeper Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp this summer.

The report claims that the Championship champions have emerged as serious contenders to sign the 23-year-old shot-stopper to bolster Daniel Farke’s squad for next season.

However, it adds that Manchester United are also interested in the Belgian star, who is valued at a fee of up to £17m by his club, which means that there could be significant competition for his signature.

Why Senne Lammens would be a big signing for Leeds

Lammens would be an even better signing than Stach for Leeds because he would arrive as a huge upgrade in a position that the club are currently desperately lacking in quality.

The latest Whites signing is part of a healthy group of quality midfield options, which means that he is not guaranteed to be a regular starter, but the Belgian goalkeeper would come straight in as Farke’s best goalkeeper.

Lammens, who saved four of the eight penalties he faced in the Pro League last season, produced outstanding performances for Royal Antwerp in the 2024/25 campaign, and could be a phenomenal signing for the club.

Appearances

40

39

Save percentage

77%

71%

Penalties saved

4/8

1/4

Goals prevented

+15.57

-2.73

Saves

173

65

Error led to goal

2

3

As you can see in the table above, the Belgian goalkeeper would come in as an unbelievable upgrade on Meslier if he can carry his form over to English football, as he prevented a ridiculous 15.57 goals based on the xG against him.

These statistics suggest that Lammens, whose shot-stopping numbers were hailed as “remarkable” by Statman Dave, would be a huge positive between the sticks for Leeds, as a goalkeeper who can make game-changing saves to keep his team in matches.

Whereas, Meslier has let Leeds down too many times with his inconsistent shot-stopping, which has led to him conceding more than the average goalkeeper would be expected to based on the quality of shots against him.

Therefore, Lammens would be a huge upgrade on what the Whites currently have in goal, and he would arrive as a crucial signing for Farke ahead of their attempt to avoid an instant relegation from the Premier League.

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Leeds United remain interested in a deal to sign a star who could send Jack Harrison packing this summer.

1 ByDan Emery Jul 22, 2025

That is why the Royal Antwerp stopper would be an even better signing than Stach for the Whites this summer, because he would solve a problem position for the club, whilst the midfielder is competing in an area of the pitch that Farke has plenty of quality in.

Good things come to those who wait. That’s an aphorism firmly printed in the minds of Newcastle United’s fanbase, for sure.

The Magpies have endured another frustrating start to a summer transfer window, with the likes of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Joao Pedro all opting against moves to St. James’ Park.

But Eddie Howe has bounced back from last summer’s failed bid for Anthony Elanga by signing the Nottingham Forest winger for £55m, thus filling a gaping hole in his first-team squad.

Now, he’s planning something special. Something emblematic of the club’s ambitions, their desire to not just to upset the Premier League hegemony but to destroy it, establishing themselves as part of a new ‘big six’.

Having won the Carabao Cup and qualified for the Champions League for the second time in three years, the Toon are well on their way to achieving this, and the signing of Hugo Ekitike would only rubberstamp this new position of strength.

The latest on Hugo Ekitike to Newcastle

Make no mistake, Newcastle would send shockwaves rippling across the footballing world if beating Liverpool and Chelsea, among others, to Ekitike’s signature.

The Frenchman is a rare breed of centre-forward, truly dynamic and creative in his approach to his craft. Already, he has been described by analyst Ben Mattinson as being “one of the best strikers out there”, and yet we’re looking at a player who still has a mountain to climb before completing his development.

And it’s hard to imagine that evolution will simply cease upon a move to Tyneside. Eintracht Frankfurt have overseen the 23-year-old’s progress since he arrived from Paris Saint-Germain in January 2024 as a loanee before becoming a fixed feature at the prow of the ship.

Newcastle’s interest runs deep, of course, for United had a £33m bid accepted back in 2022, but for the Reims prospect’s head to be turned by PSG’s late interruption.

And now, according to top sources such as The Athletic’s David Ornstein and Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle are pushing ahead, looking to close a deal.

Such news represents a double-edged sword: Ekitike has the makings of a world-class forward, but his acquisition heightens fears surrounding Alexander Isak’s future, with Liverpool having already made an attempt to lure him to Anfield in a staggering £130m deal. That’s the word of Times journalist Martin Hardy, anyway.

Especially since Howe is looking to take Newcastle’s summer expenditure to the next level, with a move for a Premier League star in the pipeline.

Newcastle discussing move for Premier League star

According to The Athletic, Ekitike isn’t the only former transfer target back on Newcastle’s radar, with Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi’s name being continually discussed in internal recruitment meetings.

Newcastle saw four bids for Guehi rejected by Eagles chairman Steve Parish last summer, but they could now return, with the Three Lions star in the final year of his contract and with no plans to renew.

Liverpool are also firm admirers, looking to sign the 25-year-old for £40m. However, as with Ekitike, Newcastle’s long-standing interest could hold sway in negotiations.

Why Marc Guehi would be a brilliant signing

Over the past several years, Guehi has established himself as one of the leading central defenders in English football, crowning his time at Crystal Palace, 155 senior appearances deep, with a reputation-raising victory over Manchester City to win the FA Cup in May.

His time at Selhurst Park looks to be reaching its end, though, with the Eagles likely to want to cash in on their “elite” talent, as he’s been called by writer Eddie Gibbs, rather than lose him on a free next year.

Hailed as a “monster in defence” by reporter Bobby Manzi, Guehi is quite literally the perfect defensive profile for Howe’s system: he’s combative, collected, and quietly authoritative.

Moreover, the England international’s surpassing technical qualities could see him charge the transitional emphasis, enhancing the system to a degree that could see him prove to be a signing just as exciting as any move for Ekitike, which is certainly saying something.

Ekitike is one of the most talented young strikers around, but he’s also got work to be done. There are blemishes in his ball-striking, weaknesses in his intuitiveness, though these are small things, outweighed by the scale of his potential.

Guehi, conversely, has shaped into the complete package under Oliver Glasner’s wing in the capital and would be expected to hit the ground running at Newcastle.

When fit and fully functional, Sven Botman is patently Newcastle’s best centre-half. His 2022/23 campaign was a thing to behold, but his last two terms have been disrupted by setbacks.

Looking at how Guehi ranks up against that giddy height is quite a thing. This might be a player who moves over and instantly establishes themselves as the cream of Newcastle’s crop.

Matches (starts)

36 (35)

34 (34)

Goals

0

3

Assists

0

2

Clean sheets

11

11

Touches*

58.4

64.9

Pass completion

87%

84%

Key passes*

0.3

0.5

Dribbles (success)*

0.1 (100%)

0.4 (86%)

Tackles + interceptions*

2.0

2.6

Clearances*

3.3

4.6

Duels (won)*

3.5 (67%)

4.9 (59%)

We can extrapolate the data above to posit Guehi’s signature being of equal merit, equally as exciting, to any deal for Ekitike in the coming weeks.

Guehi, after all, has been named as “England’s best centre-back” by one analyst, the evidence of which lies in his fixed position in the Three Lions starting line-up over the past couple of years.

As is starting to become a frustrating theme, it looks like a deal for Guehi will indeed include fending off Liverpool. But, with Howe building an incredible project and Guehi sure to assume a leading role under the St. James’ Park lights, the Englishman might just feel that a move to Newcastle represents the best move for his career at this stage.

Considering the calibre of player the Palace man is and the need for a centre-back, there’s certainly an argument that Guehi could be the defining success of a tremendous transfer window on Tyneside.

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Back in the summer of 2021, Manchester United thought they had landed themselves one of the deals of the transfer window, re-signing Cristiano Ronaldo 12 years after he left for Real Madrid.

The Portuguese international looked set for a move to join Manchester City, before the Red Devils hijacked that deal and secured a fairytale return to Old Trafford.

He would feature 54 times in his second stint, scoring 27 times, before a major bust-up with Erik ten Hag would see him depart for his current side, Al Nassr, in November 2022.

However, despite his off-the-field issues, it was a huge move that boosted the club’s finances and brought added excitement around the ground – especially after finishing second in the Premier League the season prior to his arrival.

Fast-forward to the present day, a similar move could well be completed, with Ruben Amorim’s side looking to pounce and take advantage of a potential transfer this summer.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

Dušan Vlahović is a player who could be a cheap option for United and director of football Jason Wilcox this summer, with current side, Juventus, potentially offloading him for just £15m during the off-season.

The Red Devils have been in constant talks with the Italian outfit over a move for the Serbian international, potentially seeing Jadon Sancho moving in the opposite direction.

However, attention may have been turned to another target, with Sporting CP talisman Viktor Gyokeres appearing on their radar once again, according to A Bola’s latest update.

Whilst the Swede has looked certain to move to Arsenal this window, the report claims a deal has stalled in recent days with the Gunners reluctant to meet Sporting’s valuation of the player.

As a result, the Red Devils are on red alert and are looking to pounce on the situation, potentially handing the forward a lifeline as he seeks an escape route out of Lisbon.

It also states that the Portuguese outfit are holding out for a fee in the region of £70m, including add-ons, to sell the 27-year-old during the current transfer window.

Why United’s latest target would be the biggest deal since Ronaldo

Since Ronaldo’s second spell at United, the hierarchy have splashed the cash to try and land players who could thrive at the club within the final third.

Rasmus Hojlund is just one player who’s tried to fill the void in recent seasons, but the Dane has fallen way below the expectations of a signing who cost £72m.

The 22-year-old has only registered 26 goals in his first two full seasons at Old Trafford, leading to rumours around his own long-term future at the club under Amorim.

Joshua Zirkzee is another striker who’s failed to impress, notching just seven goals last season, after joining from Italian side Bologna nearly 12 months ago.

However, when comparing the pair’s respective stats to those of Gyokeres from the 2024/25 campaign, the Swede has massively blown them out the water – highlighting why he’d be the best signing since Ronaldo in such a department.

Gyokeres, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by commentator Ian Darke, massively outscored the pair and posted a better goal per shot on target rate – showcasing the clinical edge he possesses in the final third.

He also managed to complete more take-ons that he attempted, along with more carries into the opposition’s box per 90, having the ability to create an opportunity for himself out of nothing.

Games played

33

32

32

Goals & assists

46

4

4

Shot on target accuracy

52%

40%

39%

Goals per shot on target

0.4

0.3

0.2

Progressive carries

4.3

1.2

0.9

Key passes made

1.9

0.7

0.7

Take-on succeess

46%

27%

31%

Carries into opposition box

3.1

0.7

0.2

Aerials won

50%

24%

28%

The Swede’s creativity is also demonstrated by his tally of 1.9 key passes per 90, along with 50% aerials won – handing Amorim’s side that focal point to play off, something they’ve massively been lacking in recent months.

It’s unclear as to how much of an opportunity they have to hijack the move for the forward, but it’s hugely evident that he would be the best option at the manager’s disposal.

If he could replicate the levels produced by Ronaldo at Old Trafford, it would be a phenomenal piece of business and one that could catapult them up the table next campaign.

Having beaten off Man City to secure the huge coup of sealing Ronaldo’s homecoming, managing to get ahead of the Gunners in the race for Gyokeres would be a similar seismic, statement deal for Wilcox and the new regime.

Amorim's new Gyokeres: Man Utd close in on deal to sign "phenomenal" star

Manchester United have moved closer to completing a deal for a big-money star.

2 ByEthan Lamb Jul 10, 2025

It’s been a jam-packed summer for Chelsea so far this year.

On top of making it through to the knockout rounds of the Club World Cup, the Blues have already been very active in the transfer window.

Enzo Maresca’s side have bought in a number of young talents to bolster the squad ahead of their return to the Champions League next season, with perhaps the most exciting so far being Liam Delap.

However, in exciting news, the club appear close to securing the services of another young star who could be an even bigger talent than the former Ipswich Town star.

Chelsea target young talents

So far this summer, Chelsea seem to be continuing their habit of targeting young, up-and-coming talents, with names like Nico Williams and Alejandro Garnacho linked with them over the last few weeks.

Transfer Focus

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

However, with the former now looking set to join Barcelona and the latter not exactly the most popular candidate, thanks to how things appear to have ended at Manchester United, the Blues have also looked at a host of other youngsters.

Fortunately, the West Londoners now appear to be closing in on one of those prospects, someone who’s arguably a bigger talent than Delap: Jamie Gittens.

Yes, according to a recent report from transfers expert Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are still pursuing the Borussia Dortmund star.

In fact, the Italian journalist has revealed that an “agreement is getting closer” as the two sides continue their talks over the player in the US.

A price is not mentioned in the update, but according to other reports from this week, it looks increasingly likely that the Englishman will cost around £55m.

It might be a lot of money for a 20-year-old, but based on his ability and potential, it could be worth it, especially as he might be a bigger talent than Delap.

How Gittens compares to Delap

So, the first thing to say is that both youngsters look destined for brilliant careers at the very top of the game, but if we had to come down on who we think is just about the bigger talent, it would be Gittens, and there are a few reasons why.

The first is that, while the former Ipswich Town gem was honing his skills in the Championship last season, the Dortmund prospect was making a name for himself in the Bundesliga and even made seven appearances in the Champions League, despite being just 19 years old.

Moreover, this season, when both players were competing in one of Europe’s top five leagues alongside other competitions, the 20-year-old prospect was, in fact, more effective for the German outfit than the 22-year-old was for the Tractor Boys.

For example, the “explosive” Reading-born winger, as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, scored 12 goals and provided five assists in 49 appearances, totalling 2,803 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal or assist every 164.88 minutes.

In contrast, the Winchester-born poacher scored 12 goals and provided two assists in 40 appearances, totalling 2,670 minutes, for the Suffolk side this year, which comes out to a goal involvement every 190.71 minutes.

Finally, when we examine their underlying numbers, it becomes impossible to ignore just how much better the talented winger fares than his potential new teammate.

For example, not only does he do better in the most critical attacking metrics, like non-penalty goals plus assists and key passes, but also tackles, blocks and interceptions, so he can be trusted to contribute to the dirty work while also impacting play at the sharp end of the pitch.

Non-Penalty G+As

0.56

0.42

Progressive Passes

2.13

1.04

Progressive Carries

5.74

2.12

Shots

2.64

2.29

Shots on Target

1.22

1.01

Expected Assists

0.21

0.05

Passing Accuracy

76.5%

61.3%

Key Passes

1.07

0.73

Passes into the Penalty Area

1.22

0.21

Crosses into the Penalty Area

0.20

0.00

Shot-Creating Actions

3.70

2.15

Goal-Creating Actions

0.51

0.24

Tackles

1.57

0.38

Tackles Won

0.96

0.28

Blocks

0.81

0.28

Interceptions

0.51

0.07

Clearances

0.20

0.97

Successful Take-Ons

3.91

1.39

Carries into the Final Third

2.84

1.60

Carries into the Penalty Area

3.20

1.04

Ultimately, both Delap and Gittens will be excellent players for Chelsea, but as things stand, the latter appears to be a more promising talent than the 22-year-old striker.

Alongside Gittens: Chelsea ready bid for £51m "legend" who's Caicedo 2.0

Chelsea – as ever – are likely to spend big this summer on new additions…

ByRobbie Walls Jun 26, 2025

Leeds United now face Burnley in a transfer battle to sign a Premier League level defender on a free transfer this summer, according to a new report.

Leeds eyeing more transfers after Nmecha deal

The Whites confirmed their first signing of the summer transfer window on Sunday afternoon, as Lukas Nmecha agreed to join Leeds once his contract at Wolfsburg expires at the end of the month.

The attacking midfielder is a player who is likely to be an important figure in Farke’s team this season, but the club are not resting with just his arrival, as they are already working on more additions.

As reported by Africa Foot, Leeds have made contact with Manchester City over signing Juma Bah on a loan deal. The 19-year-old joined the Blues back in January but spent the rest of the campaign on loan at RC Lens. He now looks set for another temporary move away, with Leeds and Southampton fighting for his signature.

He'd be better than Bijol: £5m defender now wants to sign for Leeds

Leeds United could seal a better transfer than snapping up Jaka Bijol by landing this deal.

ByKelan Sarson Jun 15, 2025

Meanwhile, defender Jaka Bijol has agreed terms over a move to Elland Road this summer and a deal appears to be nearing completion. He is not the only defender on the club’s radar, as a report from Football Insider states that Alex Moreno is also interested in a move to Leeds this summer. The 32-year-old could be available for £5 million, as the Whites are in the market for a new left-back.

Leeds face Burnley in Keane battle

The list of potential new defenders to sign doesn’t stop there, as according to the Liverpool Echo, Leeds are among the teams interested in signing Michael Keane from Everton.

Keane, who has been at Goodison Park since July 2017, is out of contract at the end of this month, and while he remains in talks over a new contract, he is looking more likely to leave. That has alerted Leeds, who, along with Burnley and Sheffield United, are keen on swooping in and securing the defender on a free transfer.

The 32-year-old, who has been dubbed “immense” in the past by Harry Redknapp, has fallen down the pecking order at Everton in recent seasons. Keane went from playing 32 games in the Premier League during the 2021/22 season to playing just 12, 9 and 14 times in the last 3 campaigns.

Apps

230

Goals

16

Assists

10

Keane could be a viable option for the Whites to provide more depth behind Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk, and there aren’t many free signings on the market who provide such a wealth of top flight experience.