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There’s a lot going on down Anfield Road this summer, and there’s more yet to come for Liverpool’s Arne Slot as the Premier League-winning manager pieces together a squad capable of sustaining title charges across so many years.

Few predicted Liverpool would be crowned champions after Jurgen Klopp stepped down from his post, but the Merseysiders proved a cut above their rivals to win the title at a canter. However, now is the time for investment, having spent nominally in last summer’s market.

Whether the Reds manage to offload Darwin Nunez and bring in a flashy new striker remains to be seen, but there’s little question that Jeremie Frimpong, who has already signed, and Milos Kerkez and Florian Wirtz, who are on the verge, will improve the Merseysiders and then some.

It’s all going swimmingly, but Liverpool will be frustrated by their failure to sign Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, the centre-back instead signing for Real Madrid last month in a £50m deal.

Why Liverpool wanted Dean Huijsen

Analyst Ben Mattinson remarked last season that Huijsen was “the most in-demand centre-back in the world”, and after such an impressive breakout campaign with Bournemouth, it’s clear to see why.

The archetypal modern centre-half, Huijsen, only 20 years old, can do it all, defending with steely tenacity and spraying balls forward with the artful elegance of a midfield maestro.

As per FBref, he ranked among the top 7% of Premier League positional peers last term for shot-creating actions, the top 15% for progressive passes, the top 9% for progressive carries and the top 4% for interceptions and blocks per 90.

With Virgil van Dijk approaching the autumn of his illustrious Liverpool career, the left-sided Huijsen would have been the perfect fit, but instead Liverpool will have to turn their attention elsewhere.

The Spain international is off the cards, then, but FSG may yet authorise a move for an up-and-coming defensive star.

Liverpool enter race for new CB

According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Liverpool have joined Chelsea in the race for Benfica centre-back Tomas Araujo, who has an €80m (£68m) release clause in his contract.

The 23-year-old might be higher on Chelsea’s list at the moment, but that’s not to say Liverpool won’t accelerate their plans in the coming weeks, once other areas of the field have been dealt with.

It’s worth noting that Benfica do not want to sell their prized defender, but if Liverpool are serious, they may be able to tempt the player to push for an exit before the start of the 2025/26 campaign.

What Tomas Araujo would bring to Liverpool

Liverpool wouldn’t have just made themselves known as suitors for Huijsen because many of their divisional rivals had registered interest; the Reds’ data-driven approach would have seen the Dutch-born talent profiled extensively.

He is indeed off the cards, but Liverpool could sign a similar player in Araujo, who has been hailed for his “magnificent” rise to prominence in Portugal by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Having graduated from Benfica’s academy and having completed a season-long loan with Gil Vicente in 2022/23, Araujo has now completed 68 senior matches with the Eagles, winning the Taça da Liga last season (effectively the Portuguese version of the League Cup).

Limited to just 20 appearances across all competitions in 2023/24, having returned from his promising loan spell, Araujo has now become a mainstay in Benfica’s first team, going from strength to strength to attract the attention of Liverpool.

And when collating his data from the 2024/25 campaign with Huijsen’s, you begin to see that Liverpool could actually strike gold in signing this second choice, for he matches up with the Spaniard nicely indeed.

Matches (starts)

32 (26)

28 (28)

Goals

3

1

Assists

2

2

Touches*

63.9

66.9

Pass completion

84%

86%

Key passes*

0.5

0.4

Dribbles*

0.1

0.6

Ball recoveries*

3.3

5.4

Tackles + interceptions*

2.7

3.4

Clearances*

6.1

1.5

Duels (won)*

3.6 (56%)

5.1 (60%)

Matching Huijsen across ball-playing metrics, Araujo has also proved himself to be more accurate in the duel and more active across tackling and intercepting areas, albeit making far fewer clearances than his fellow Iberian.

Curiously, Araujo also recovered more balls, which speaks highly of his athleticism and energy, covering ground. This would be especially important in the Premier League, which is played at a higher pace than the Liga Portugal.

And furthermore, Araujo is also a capable right-back, playing out wide when the situation demands it. The fruits of this can be found in his 0.6 dribbles per game, also maintaining a crispness in his passing while creating openings for his teammates in a similar vein as Huijsen.

He might not have the goalscoring advantage on Real Madrid’s new recruit, who already is an expert at using his rangy frame in the box, but then he has shown on occasion an ability to find the back of the net with a leaping effort.

A balanced defender who has proven his ability to shake things up on the biggest stage, Araujo is the real deal. Across the 2024/25 Champions League season, he ranked among the top 17% of central defenders for shot-creating actions and the top 1% for tackles per 90 (FBref).

Given Liverpool’s pressing need for more depth and quality in the rearguard, especially with Ibrahima Konate’s future uncertain and Jarell Quansah linked with a transfer to Bayer Leverkusen, Araujo could be the perfect fit.

The Benfica star’s ball-playing and -carrying strengths indicate a style which Huijsen has performed so well in the Premier League, so now it’s up to FSG to steal ahead of Chelsea in the transfer tussle.

Perfect for Isak: Liverpool told £75m bid for PL star will be accepted

Liverpool may need to sign a new left-sided forward this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 14, 2025

Leeds United know that there is plenty of work for them to do in the summer transfer window to build a squad that is capable of avoiding an instant relegation from the Premier League.

One player the Whites should be looking to replace as a starter, heading into the 2025/26 campaign, is attacking midfielder Brenden Aaronson.

The USA international did not do enough in the Championship to suggest that he has the quality to make the step up to the top-flight as a regular starter next term, as evidenced by his form against the other five teams that finished in the top six.

Bristol City (A)

0

0

Burnley (H)

0

0

Sunderland (A)

0

0

Sheffield United (H)

0

0

Coventry (H)

0

0

Coventry (A)

0

0

Burnley (A)

0

0

Sunderland (H)

0

0

Sheffield United (A)

0

0

Bristol City (H)

0

0

As you can see in the table above, Aaronson did not deliver a single goal or assist against the top teams in ten appearances for the Whites.

The American flop also scored one goal in 36 games in the Premier League during the 2022/23 campaign for Leeds, and his form last term does not suggest that he is likely to fare much better.

Leeds are still looking for their next Pablo Hernandez

The last time the West Yorkshire outfit were promoted to the top-flight, Pablo Hernandez was the chief creator for Marcelo Bielsa, either playing as a number ten or as a winger on the right flank.

During the 2019/20 promotion-winning season, the Spanish playmaker produced nine goals and nine assists in 36 appearances in the second tier, helping the Whites on their way to the title with his ability to both score and assist goals at the top end of the pitch.

He also created 13 ‘big chances’ and delivered 2.3 key passes per game on average in the Championship, which shows that he was constantly looking to unlock opposition defences with his creative quality by creating chances at an exceptional rate.

That form came after the mercurial playmaker produced 12 goals and 12 assists, with 16 ‘big chances’ created, in 39 appearances in the Championship during Bielsa’s first season in charge at Elland Road. This shows that he consistently provided a big threat as both a scorer and a creator of goals from an attacking midfield position.

Leeds are still looking for their next version of Hernandez. Some may point to Georginio Rutter, who delivered 15 league assists in the 2023/24 campaign, but the French attacker only scored seven goals, as he failed to consistently perform as a scoring threat.

Daniel Farke, however, could find the club’s new playmaking superstar by swooping to sign one of the stars of his Norwich City team in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Leeds eyeing move for Premier League star

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Leeds United remain interested in a deal to sign Aston Villa attacking midfielder Emiliano Buendia ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

The reporter claims that the Championship champions are “still keen” on the Argentina international, following on from their interest in him at the start of the year.

Jacobs also notes that Sheffield United playmaker Gustavo Hamer is also a target for the Whites after the Blades lost to Sunderland in the play-off final at Wembley last weekend.

Leeds were reportedly interested in a deal to sign Buendia on loan from Aston Villa during the January transfer window, with an option or obligation to buy, but he ended up joining Bayer Leverkusen on loan for the second half of the season.

The Argentine ace, who worked with Farke at Norwich, has now returned to England after the conclusion of the Bundesliga season, and could be available to snap up this summer with an alleged valuation right now of £15m.

Why Leeds should sign Emi Buendia

The Whites should push to bring the Villans outcast to Elland Road this summer because he could be an upgrade on Aaronson as well as being the club’s new Hernandez.

Buendia missed the 2023/24 campaign with an ACL injury and struggled for game time, playing 89 minutes, in the Premier League in the first half of this season before his loan move to Leverkusen.

The 28-year-old magician showed signs of promise in his loan spell with Leverkusen, though, as he delivered two goals and two ‘big chances’ created in 11 appearances and three starts in the Bundesliga, scoring more than Aaronson did in an entire top-flight season for Leeds.

Buendia, who produced nine goals and eight assists in his first two Premier League seasons with Villa, appears to be on his way back to his best, and Farke could be the perfect coach for him to revive his career, given what they achieved together at Carrow Road.

Appearances

38

39

Goals

8

15

Big chances created

7

18

Key passes per game

2.4

3.1

Assists

12

16

As you can see in the table above, the Argentine ace was particularly effective in the 2020/21 campaign, so much so that journalist Connor Southwell described his form as “remarkable”.

The same reporter hailed Buendia as a “joy to watch” for the Canaries. That claim is backed up by both his statistics, with 31 goals and assists combined in that second Championship season, and his highlights from his time working with Farke.

As you can see in the clips above, the Leeds target was capable of the spectacular, as a scorer and a creator of goals, whilst playing for Farke as a right-sided attacker who drifted infield to impact games from a central position.

Like Hernandez, Buendia is equally capable of playing as a number ten or as an attacking midfielder on the right flank, drifting inside, and he could replace Aaronson as the central member of the front four.

Imagine him & Solomon: Leeds want to sign a star with over 300 PL appearances

Leeds United are reportedly interested in signing a star who could be amazing for Manor Solomon.

ByDan Emery May 26, 2025

The Villa attacker is a proven Premier League performer, as shown by his aforementioned statistics in his first two years in the division with the Villans, who has also proven himself to be a superstar in a Farke team, which is why Leeds should sign him this summer.

Everton signed off at Goodison Park with a rip-roaring victory over relegated Southampton, marking a historic and unforgettable day for Blues across Merseyside and beyond.

With no hyperbole, the emotion was palpable as the Premier League match entered the dying embers.

It was an emotional farewell, one which was always going to end with three points for the hosts. It was Southampton, but it could have been anyone unfortunate enough to be swallowed into the noisy sea of Everton support.

Everton say goodbye to Goodison Park

The Toffees have weathered some storms in recent years, and no mistake, but with David Moyes back at the helm, there’s something cyclical about this change of scenery.

It’s a new beginning, but one which shouldn’t see the club lose their sense of place, nor their deep-rooted ‘Evertonism’ as they finally close the door at Goodison Park for the final time.

And what a send-off. The fans were out in force, and so too were some club legends and former icons. Tim Cahill, Peter Reid and Graeme Sharp were all there as special guests, as was Wayne Rooney.

Rooney might not have played the prime years of his career out on Merseyside, but he was reared in the city and raised to the professional level by Moyes before signing for Manchester United in a £30m deal, aged 18.

One of the Premier League’s superstars, Everton may well have found their new version of the Three Lions legend, and he took centre-stage on Sunday.

Everton's new Wayne Rooney

Moyes elevated numerous players when he replaced Sean Dyche at the helm in January, and while this could be said for Iliman Ndiaye, the Senegal international had proved the bright spark for the Merseysiders across the first half of the season.

Signed from Marseille for £15m last summer, Ndiaye has been a pillar of strength for Everton throughout the campaign, and while he’s the top scorer with nine goals from just 28 starting appearances, his slickness and thrilling movements suggest he could become a talisman in the mould of Rooney, one who could actually devote some of their finest years to the club.

Rooney’s capacity to excite, especially in his earlier iterations, was something that differentiated him from other talented up-and-comers.

Though Ndiaye is 25, he bears a likeness to the English great in this regard, as evidenced by his underlying data this term. As per FBref, he ranks among the top 20% of positional peers in the Premier League for goals, the top 17% for pass completion, the top 7% for successful take-ons and the top 1% for ball recoveries per 90.

There’s certainly a spring in his step. Ndiaye has been hailed for his ability to produce “magic” moments by Sky Sports commentator Seb Hutchinson, and if Moyes and the owners can get it right in the transfer market this summer, there’s every chance he could hit the next level in his development and truly establish himself as one of the country’s heaviest hitters.

Man United

559

253

141

Everton

117

28

8

D.C. United

52

25

14

Derby County

35

7

3

Were Everton to end up selling their silky star, he would also fetch a large transfer fee, like Rooney. Whichever angle you look at it from, Moyes has hit the absolute jackpot with this one, and must ensure he retains his services for the upcoming campaign at the least.

Most exciting deal since Richarlison: Everton could sign “world-class” star

David Moyes will look to bring in one or two exciting names to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

ByAngus Sinclair May 18, 2025

Arne Slot revealed in his pre-match press conference on Friday morning that he will finally enforce some rotation across Liverpool’s final four Premier League matches of the season.

It’s taken him long enough, but then who can blame the Dutch manager for sticking to his guns, now crowned the division’s champion in his maiden year on English soil?

The business end of the 2024/25 league campaign has been navigated with a confident swagger for those of a Liverpool persuasion, with their team strutting far out ahead of second-place Arsenal, who themselves have held a healthy advantage over the rest of the Champions League hopefuls.

For those looking at the Anfield side from an outside perspective, it might seem like there’s a lot of work that needs to be done: Andy Robertson has faced criticism for his performances, Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer and Slot’s frontline hasn’t always fired across every cylinder.

While Mohamed Salah has been a true talisman, posting 33 goals and 23 assists across all competitions, his attacking partners have flattered to deceive at times, with none more culpable than Darwin Nunez.

No road back for Darwin Nunez

Tough season for Nunez. In fact, the 25-year-old has looked so far away from the vision that Slot wants from his striker that his exit is all but confirmed this season, with Liverpool actively planning to cash in while already searching for potential heirs.

Nunez has only returned seven goals this year, and it’s a bleak indictment of his performances that 37 of those 43 matches he has featured in have returned blanks. That is not the form of a club-record Liverpool striker, one whose total payment could reach £85m.

While Slot was quick to dismiss claims that Nunez is being repeatedly benched due to a clause that means his 50th Premier League start would impel Liverpool to pay Benfica an additional £5m sum, the fact remains that the Uruguay international has been used sparingly this season.

In fact, he’s only started once in the top flight since Boxing Day.

Frankly, it’s hard to envisage a world where Nunez lines up as Anfield’s chief centre-forward next season, not after falling heavily by the wayside under Slot’s wing.

Liverpool, for sure, are ready to sign a new forward.

Liverpool ready to sign new forward

Liverpool have identified a new attacking star, and while he might not be an out-and-out frontman, Daizen Maeda has all the qualities to become a valued part of Slot’s frontline.

That’s according to transfer insider Graeme Bailey, making the claim that the 27-year-old, who can play across the frontline, is attracting interest from both Arsenal and Slot’s Reds ahead of the summer transfer window.

Valued at £25m, Maeda has been scouted by Liverpool across the campaign and would certainly be curious at a transfer to Anfield, having been quizzed on a potential transfer away from Scotland in March and responding that it was a “difficult question.”

Daizen Maeda would be perfect for Slot

Discovered by Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou, who signed Maeda from Yokohama F Marinos on an initial loan in December 2021 before the deal was made permanent the following summer, it’s been a profitable few years in Scotland for the Japan international.

Described as an “absolute nuisance” of a forward by pundit Rio Ferdinand, Maeda’s ability to provide danger from every angle is something that differentiates him from most other forwards, having also been noted as a “physical beast” by his former coach John Hutchinson.

This season alone, he’s posted 33 goals and 11 assists across 47 appearances for the Hoops, which curiously means he has outscored Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, who has posted 26 goals this term and is on Liverpool’s list as a potential Nunez replacement, albeit an unlikely signing given he is valued at £150m.

His ability to step up in the Champions League, scoring four times in the competition this season, including against Bayern Munich in the first knockout round, makes a firm comment on his capacity for success at Liverpool, with the physicality to serve as Slot’s next version of Nunez, one who might provide a more clinical output.

While he hasn’t always been the most consistent in front of goal, Maeda is a tireless performer and possesses fleet feet besides.

Matches (starts)

31 (27)

Goals

16

Assists

9

Shots (on targets)*

1.8 (0.6)

Big chances missed

16

Pass completion

83%

Big chances created

10

Key passes*

1.3

Dribbles*

0.7

Tackles + interceptions*

1.7

Duels won*

3.1

Some would point toward Maeda playing in a division of objectively inferior quality, but the fact that he has converted 16 goals and missed as many chances bespeaks his natural goalscoring ability, something that has been hardened under Brendan Rodgers’ wing to be sure.

Nunez, for reference, has scored 25 goals across his three years in the Premier League, rather shockingly missing 53 big chances.

Though Maeda isn’t the natural central striker that Liverpool fans hope to walk through the door this summer, he has clinched 14 goals and four assists from just ten matches as Celtic’s striker.

Slot has already demonstrated his willingness to use such a dynamic profile across different attacking roles through the deployment of Luis Diaz across the campaign, with the Colombian having featured routinely in a central berth to accommodate Cody Gakpo and create an electric sense of fluency.

Transfer Focus

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

Maeda would merely strengthen this exciting thread of attacking players, with the confidence and completeness to effectively step into Nunez’s boots and take Liverpool’s project to the next level.

Slot's own Xabi Alonso: Liverpool learn conditions to sign £80m "machine"

Liverpool would take their midfield to the next level by sealing this ambitious signing.

ByAngus Sinclair May 2, 2025

Everton and their hierarchy are now pushing to complete the signing of a £12 million attacker who has told his entourage to get the deal done, according to a recent report.

Everton chasing multiple signings to kick off summer business

The Toffees are one of several sides in the Premier League who have nothing to play for in the remaining games of the season, but will want to carry plenty of momentum into the new campaign. Club chiefs at Goodison Park however appear to be turning their attention towards the summer and the business they would like to conclude.

Moyes' biggest star since Rooney: Everton leading race to sign £38m star

Everton appear to be making moves to land a talented youngster ahead of this summer.

ByEthan Lamb Apr 24, 2025

Strengthening the options in defence seems to be a high priority for David Moyes, as they have already been linked with a shock move for Liverpool’s Jarell Quansah, who has now been backed to make the move to Everton by former scout Bryan King. The Toffees are also interested in signing David Hancko from Feyenoord, but it is not a cheap deal, as the Dutch side want to get around £34 million for his services.

It’s also been stated that Moyes is keen to strengthen his forward line, as goals have been somewhat of a problem, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin could leave for nothing come the end of the season. Brighton’s Evan Ferguson has been identified as their top target for a new centre-forward, as his future with the Seagulls is very much up in the air.

Everton are pushing to sign £12m winger Moses Simon

As well as looking at Ferguson, the Toffees are also looking at other attacking additions, and according to Africa Foot, relayed by Sport Witness, Everton have identified Moses Simon as a transfer target heading into the summer.

The report states that the Toffees are pushing to complete a deal for Simon after sending scouts to watch him live in action in Ligue 1 in the last few weeks. The Nantes winger is said to have left them impressed, and now the Premier League side are working on a deal, with Simon telling his agent to do whatever needs to be done to complete a move to Everton in the summer transfer window.

Interestingly, his agency CAA Base also represent one of Everton’s coaching staff, Dan Micciche, who is the Toffees’ Player Development Lead.

The French club do not want to sell Simon, despite his contract ending at the end of next season. However, their stance on selling the 29-year-old will change if they receive a bid worth €15 million, which is roughly £12.8 million. The Toffees meanwhile believe they could take advantage of Simon’s contract and bring him to England for less than the price Nantes want.

Apps

173

Goals

32

Assists

37

The Nigeria international has scored seven goals and recorded nine assists in 28 Ligue 1 games this season, which is his best return in his career. Everton may need to strengthen in the wide areas this summer, as there is uncertainty over the future of Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom, who are both on loan until the end of the campaign.

Turning their attention towards incomings after finally reaching a breakthrough in negotiations with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool are now reportedly in pole position to sign a midfield star.

Liverpool turn focus towards incomings

It’s been a long time coming and it hasn’t been without some nervous moments, but it looks as though Van Dijk and Salah are finally set to sign new Liverpool deals to end what were growing fears around Anfield. All of a sudden, the headlines threatening to overshadow the Reds’ march towards the Premier League title look destined to clear just in time.

The news should signal a sigh of relief around Anfield and allow the likes of Richard Hughes to turn their attention towards any potential incomings this summer.

It may still be a busy window for the Reds too. As impressive as Arne Slot’s side have been this season, there’s still plenty of room for improvement as proved in Liverpool’s 3-2 defeat at the hands of Fulham last time out.

Their frontline will particularly be interesting to watch in the coming months. It’s been arguably the main point of weakness at Liverpool when it hasn’t been Salah stealing the spotlight and those struggles could result in at least one fresh face to lead the line.

Liverpool in new talks to sign £40m top target who's keen on Man Utd move

The Reds have made him a top target.

ByCharlie Smith Apr 10, 2025

On that front, names such as Hugo Ekitike and Newcastle United star Alexander Isak have already been mentioned in recent headlines in two deals that would undoubtedly improve Slot’s attack. It’s not just in attack that the Reds could improve though, with one midfield target now reportedly emerging.

Liverpool in pole position to sign Nicolo Barella

After missing out on Martin Zubimendi last summer, Slot solved his problems by transforming Ryan Gravenberch into one of the most talented No.6s that the Premier League has to offer. But recent weeks have highlighted why the Reds need to add further depth in the middle of the park rather than falling back on a fatigued trio. And that’s where one star could come in.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, as relayed by Sports Witness, Liverpool are now in pole position to sign Nicolo Barella from Inter Milan this summer in a deal that would cost around €100m (£87m).

If there was any remaining doubt over Barella’s ability, then that should have been put to bed against Bayern Munich in Inter Milan’s Champions League quarter-final first leg tie. The Italian dominated the German giants as Inter soared to a shock 2-1 victory at the Allianz Arena.

According to Fotmob, Barella ended a fine evening with a 92% pass accuracy, five recoveries, five successful passes into the final third and was dispossessed just once. At the opposite end, meanwhile, Bayern’s Joshua Kimmich managed just three defensive actions, whilst Goretzka failed to complete a single tackle.

Fulham are still outside contenders for European qualification with Marco Silva leading them to an impressive season overall, but certain clubs may be looking to poach their outstanding players as a result.

Fulham face Liverpool in crucial Premier League clash

It’s been a bad week for the west Londoners, having crashed out of the FA Cup following a 3-0 loss to Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage and followed that up with defeat to Arsenal.

Fulham now make contact to sign £8m ace who may replace Timothy Castagne

Fulham are among the teams interested in signing a new defender.

ByBrett Worthington Mar 26, 2025

Now, an equally tough test awaits Silva in the form of Premier League title favourites Liverpool, who are looking to cement their status as champions of England. Fulham could make a real statement by thwarting Liverpool and gaining much-needed points in the race for Europe, with Silva about to lead his side into a season-defining next few matches.

After Arne Slot’s side visit the English capital, Fulham take on fellow European contenders Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium, with a west London derby then on the horizon against Chelsea.

Liverpool (home)

April 6th

Bournemouth (away)

April 14th

Chelsea (home)

April 20th

Southampton (away)

April 26th

Aston Villa (away)

May 3rd

Fulham have one eye on next season already, making summer transfer plans and targeting a move for Celtic defender Alistair Johnston, among others (David Ornstein), but for now, it is strictly business on the field.

Silva will need all of his crop fit and firing, as the Whites eye their first European campaign since 2011/2012 – when they qualified for the Europa League via England’s Fair Play berth.

Fulham fans have fond memories of their 2009/2010 season in the Europa, when Roy Hodgson guided them to an unprecedented place in the final against eventual winners Atlético Madrid.

It still isn’t beyond the realms of possibility that they could replicate those heroics next season, but they’ll need to keep hold of their key men. Silva is attracting interest from Tottenham as a potential replacement for Ange Postecoglou, and winger Andreas Pereira is a wanted man in Brazil.

Flamengo plotting unique offer for Fulham star Andreas Pereira

The former Man United gem boasts two goals and seven assists from 31 appearances in all competitions this term, but Pereira’s contract expires next year, leading to clubs from his homeland taking a real interest in poaching him.

Palmeiras are rumoured to have already made an offer, while Flamengo are believed to be plotting a unique bid for Pereira, according to journalist Bruno Lemos.

“About Andreas Pereira. Flamengo is moving forward to have Andreas Pereira for the FIFA Super World Cup,” said Lemos on X.

“After a successful conversation with the midfielder’s agent, Giuliano Bertolucci, the red-black board of directors may use an important asset to open negotiations with Fulham: 20% of the rights to striker Rodrigo Muniz, sold to the English club in 2021, and may include the percentage it still holds of the athlete to offset a possible request from the British.

“Recently, Palmeiras offered 20 million euros for the player, but Fla does not intend to reach that amount, counting on Andreas’ desire to return to Ninho do Urubu and the ability of his agent to facilitate the transfer, in addition to the contribution of 15 million dollars for participating in the World Cup and 16 million pounds from the sale of Argentine Alcaraz to Everton, also from England, part of which will be used to qualify the squad and obtain reinforcements, including a player to serve as an alternative to Uruguayan Arrascaeta, who has again presented physical problems.”

The 29-year-old could be tempted by this opportunity to make a return home as he slowly enters the twilight phase of his career, but Fulham’s boss may be keen to avoid this scenario as Silva has described Pereira as a “very important” player.

Chelsea have endured somewhat of a drop-off in recent weeks under Enzo Maresca, failing to live up to the early standards he set for himself in the early stages of his time at Stamford Bridge.

The Italian only lost two of his first 10 Premier League matches at the helm, looking as though they could be in an unexpected title battle at one stage.

However, their form has taken a turn for the worse over the last few weeks, losing four of the last eight matches, seeing them slip to sixth place and sitting behind Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth.

Injuries have undoubtedly contributed to the recent decline, with seven first-team members currently sitting on the sidelines and unable to aid the manager in his attempts to secure Champions League football.

Maresca has still been able to rely on one player who’s been the shining light in West London since his big money to the club a couple of years ago.

Cole Palmer’s stats for Chelsea in 2024/25

After his £40m move from Manchester City in the summer of 2023, Cole Palmer had an immediate impact for the Blues, registering 25 goals and 15 assists in his debut year in West London.

Such a record has made the Englishman’s task of matching such a tally this time around that little bit harder, but he’s already produced numerous moments of magic that have taken the division by storm once again.

The 22-year-old has already scored 14 times during the ongoing campaign, whilst also registering six assists for his teammates – with his combined tally the highest in the first-team squad.

His best performance undoubtedly came in the 4-2 thrashing of Brighton and Hove Albion, with Palmer scoring all four in the first half, becoming the first player in the division’s history to achieve such a feat.

Despite his excellent form under Maresca, the club may have allowed the next version of the superstar to slip through their net – making a mistake in allowing him to depart the club.

The player who could’ve been Chelsea’s next Palmer

Living up to the high standards set by Palmer is no easy feat, something which no player currently at the Bridge has managed this season given his tally of contributions.

However, the thought of having another version of the England international is a scary prospect, but one that unfortunately won’t come to reality after letting Tyler Dibling slip through their net.

The 18-year-old, who is currently starring for Southampton in the Premier League, was brought for £1.5m by the Blues back in the summer of 2022 – but it would be a move that was short-lived.

After making just two appearances for the academy, he would return to the Saints after failing to settle, with the Blues potentially living to regret their decision not to make the teenager more at home when they had the opportunity.

He’s since developed into a key member of their first team in 2024/25, making 21 appearances in the league and scoring twice – leading to journalist Eduardo Hagn labelling the talent as “outrageous”.

Dibling possesses very similar traits to Palmer, with the pair both left-footed and operating off the right-hand side and cutting onto their stronger foot after gliding past the opposition.

Games played

21

25

Goals & assists

2

20

Shot-on-target accuracy

39%

39%

Progressive carries

3.8

3.3

Carries into final third

2.8

2.1

Pass accuracy

78%

75%

Take-ons completed

2.1

1.3

As seen by their figures from 2024/25, the Saints star has matched or bettered Palmer in numerous key areas, highlighting the quality he brings, possessing the ability to become even better given his tender age.

Whilst there was not much the club could’ve done to stand in his way at such a young age, his development away from the Bridge appears to have rubbed salt into the wounds – demonstrating what they could’ve had.

Unfortunately for the fans and Maresca, Dibling will always remain a case of what could’ve been, with the hierarchy now having to pay a fee in the region of £55m if they were to bring him back to West London in the coming months.

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Manchester United have identified a “terrific” Premier League player as a top target this summer, according to a promising new transfer claim.

Man Utd continue to eye attacking stars with Cunha

The Red Devils are expecting an exodus of attacking players before the new season gets underway, with the likes of Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Antony and Alejandro Garnacho all moving on.

While Matheus Cunha has joined from Wolves, and Bryan Mbeumo remains a strong target from Brentford, United know the importance of bringing in a new centre forward, amid Rasmus Hojlund’s struggles. Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic has been linked with a summer move to Old Trafford, and would be an exciting addition who has proven himself at the top level. A swap deal involving the out-of-favour Sancho has also been mooted.

Eintracht Frankfurt ace Hugo Ekitike has been talked about as an option for many top Premier League clubs this summer, including Liverpool, and he could be an alternative option to Vlahovic for the Red Devils.

United are also said to have made contact over the signing of highly-rated Southampton youngster Tyler Dibling, who is arguably seen as one of the brightest young English attacking talents around. Now, another name has been thrown into the mix.

Man Utd make Premier League striker top target

According to Caught Offside, Manchester United are “considering” making a move for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins in the summer window, with the forward also in Arsenal’s thinking ahead of the new campaign, however, ‘United consider him more of a top target’.

The 29-year-old is described as a “key target” for Ruben Amorim, who is no doubt desperate to bolster the attacking options at his disposal and has Watkins, Cunha and Mbeumo at the heart of his vision.

The report itself further goes on to state: “Amorim wants to reshape the squad by focusing on players with Premier League experience. Watkins is at the heart of this vision, along with names like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. Amorim’s target is clear: Ready-made stars who will contribute immediately.”

The £130,000-a-week Watkins has the potential to be an excellent signing for United, having been such a consistent performer for Villa down the years.

He has scored 87 goals in 223 appearances for the Midlands outfit, not to mention netting a memorable winner for England against the Netherlands in the semi-finals of Euro 2024 last summer, and he has also been lauded by Danny Murphy.

“He just looks like a player that is completely comfortable in his own skin and what he is good at. Every aspect of his game has improved under Unai Emery and he is also being pushed for a place by Jhon Duran, so that always helps you raise your game. He is a terrific player.”

The one negative that jumps out with Watkins is that he turns 30 later this year, however, so there is a risk that United could spend big on a player whose peak is about to drift by.

England

18

5

Aston Villa

223

87

Brentford

143

49

Exeter City

78

26

For that reason, Amorim would arguably be wise to look at a younger option to come in and lead the line, even though United signing him likely wouldn’t be a bad thing over the next two or three years.

First and foremost, Newcastle United have no pressing concerns relating to finances and the ever-ominous profit and sustainability rules in the Premier League.

Furthermore, technical director Ross Wilson is now settled into his chair in the St. James’ Park offices, and have formed a good early relationship with Eddie Howe as they look to tackle key areas of the squad.

Now is the time for action. It’s been a wobbly start to the season after a summer of upheaval, but United are beginning to show green shoots in their bid to cement themselves as Champions League contenders and a multi-trophy-winning outfit.

Defensive positions are being examined, but with Joelinton’s form lacking in stages this season, Howe wants a new midfielder.

The question on everyone’s lips: Will it be Elliot Anderson?

Newcastle chasing elite midfielder

Howe spoke at the start of October about his desire to bring Anderson back home. The 23-year-old was sold to Nottingham Forest in 2024 and he has since become a top-class midfielder. It was not a happy sale for the Magpies, whose hand was forced by PSR.

Now, United want him back. The problem? Manchester City and Manchester United are also keen, and the Tricky Trees have priced their gem in excess of £100m.

This is a superstar in the making. Already, he is ranking favourably against the likes of Sandro Tonali in the Newcastle midfield; the Italian is widely regarded as one of the best in the Premier League.

If Newcastle are fruitless in their bid to sign Anderson, they could do worse than fall back on Scott McTominay, who was named the Serie A MVP last season after leading Napoli to the Scudetto.

As per Chronicle Live, McTominay is reportedly unsettled in Naples and is considering a return to the Premier League. Newcastle would be right there, offering the Scotland star a chance to take his career to the next level.

Valued at £70m, McTominay, 28, will not be short of suitors in 2026, but sources close to the player suggest that he would be open to moving to Tyneside and working under Howe’s stewardship.

What McTominay would offer Newcastle

It’s a testament to McTominay’s meteoric rise in Italy that had Newcastle signed him from Manchester United, it would have been a move met with indifference.

But now, he is revered as a hero for both club and country, 18th in the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings and regarded as a “true superstar of European and world football”, as said by content creator Adam Joseph.

Ole Gunnar Solskjær, his former boss at Old Trafford, also hailed him as a “physical monster” once, and this is why McTominay could be such an interesting Anderson alternative.

He is capable of show-stopping moments, but the Tartan Army hero also has the athleticism and defensive attributes to dovetail right into Howe’s engine room.

His high duel success bespeaks his tenacity, and his eye for goal makes him an intriguing option to place just ahead of Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes, both elegant and combative players with excellent passing ranges, sure to pick out the Napoli star’s surges into the danger area.

Matches (starts)

37 (33)

34 (33)

Goals

2

12

Assists

6

4

Touches*

54.2

43.1

Accurate passes*

28.7 (82%)

22.7 (85%)

Chances created*

1.0

0.8

Dribbles*

1.0

1.1

Ball recoveries*

5.6

4.2

Tackles + interceptions*

2.5

2.0

Duels (won)*

6.5

6.1

Anderson has since raised his level, but McTominay has hardly regressed himself, instrumental in a title-defending Napoli team that trail first-placed AC Milan this season by only a single point.

There is a winning mentality about McTominay that Newcastle need to take their project to the next level, and while the 23-year-old Anderson would be a fantastic addition, this would provide Howe with the instant effect he and his team need.

Newcastle need a new midfielder, and that won’t change. Either of these stars would mark stunning acquisitions.

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