Arsenal Want To Sign Exciting £40m Havertz Partner

Arsenal appear to be far from finished when it comes to spending big this summer, with a fresh report detailing Mikel Arteta's latest transfer venture; a potential move for Mohammed Kudu.

What is the market value of Mohammed Kudus?

The latest comes courtesy of the Daily Mail, who suggest that the Gunners are now interested in prying Kudus from Ajax.

Having already welcomed Kai Havertz (24), Declan Rice (24) and Jurrien Timber (22) this summer, the 22-year-old trickster would align with this youth-focused philosophy whilst providing some additional firepower from midfield.

Whilst the report suggests that the Amsterdam outfit will command a £40m fee for his services, it also notes that Edu retains a focus on trimming the squad before wading back out into the market.

Football Transfers only value the Ghana international at €12.8m (£11m) though, with his actual price tag likely elevated through his recent outstanding seasons and emergence at the 2022 World Cup.

Would Kudus be a good signing for Arsenal?

Whilst many might assume that Kudus would be preferred from the wing, it is actually his versatility that would likely make him such a valuable asset for Arteta.

After all, his free-flowing system would benefit from a player who could enact changes mid-game, without having to waste a substitute to alter the make-up of his side. Just last term saw him feature off the right, from attacking midfield and even up front.

An ability to shift would also help unlock their new German maestro too, who is yet to truly realise the potential that was promised following earlier form in his homeland.

Havertz recorded 27 goal contributions across all competitions in his final season before moving to Chelsea, and yet in 139 appearances for the Blues, he has scored just 32 times and assisted a further 15. Unlocking him at the Emirates could prove pivotal in making the north London outfit a true threat to Manchester City.

Whilst he endured a particularly profligate campaign just last year, with just seven strikes from 11.60 xG (expected goals) in the Premier League, he retained his creativity despite deputising as a central striker.

kai-havertz-arsenal

When compared against other number nines across Europe, he ranks in the top 9% for progressive passes and the top 12% for progressive passes received per 90, via FBref.

Should he prove to be the link between the midfield and attack, dropping in between the lines to accept the ball and progress the play, Kudus' proficiency from any number of positions could help boost the 24-year-old's figures massively.

Last season across all competitions, the speedster recorded 18 goals and a further seven assists, as well as being his country's highest-rated player, as per Sofascore, at the recent World Cup. These figures helped the youngster reach 44 goals within what has been a short but successful career thus far.

He was also linked with an exit last summer, whilst fellow Eredivisie hotshot Antony's potential move to Manchester United was touted, the two found themselves on the end of something of a forced competition.

However, the legendary Dutch striker Marco van Basten would seek to quash this debate, as he noted: "I find Mohammed Kudus a much better football player than Antony. Antony has his skills, but he is confused with the things he is trying to do! Kudus has much better technique and he knows what he is doing. Antony may be faster, but Kudus is smarter and more technical.

"He is much more of a footballer, you can place him anywhere on the pitch, an all-rounder for the team. In fact, I like him much better than Antony. He’s more fun to watch play.”

With the Brazilian having scored just four times in the league since that £86m summer move, this notion is somewhat supported.

A move to a rival of the Red Devils would likely see this fight between the two intensify, although Arteta would be keen to dispel such a battle. He will instead be focused on getting the best out of his ever-improving squad, which Kudus' arrival would certainly facilitate.

He and Havertz, with the former's physical excellence and lethal scoring touch, and the latter's creativity, could strike up a frightening partnership that propels this side closer to elite honours.

Leeds Transfer News: Offer Made For Champions League Winner

Leeds United have reportedly made a move to sign AC Milan striker Divock Origi this summer. The former Liverpool man has failed to live up to expectations in Italy, and could be set for an unexpected return to English football.

What's the latest Leeds transfer news?

Leeds United have made their move for Origi in an attempt to bring the forward to Elland Road this summer, according to Sportmediaset. The Yorkshire club aren't the only side interested, however, with both the Whites and Premier League outfit Crystal Palace making offers for the Belgian.

After struggling to make an impact at Milan, it remains to be seen how much the Serie A club would demand when it comes to offloading the forward in the current transfer window.

Earning a reported £87k per-week, they'll certainly be keen to get Origi off their wage bill. And, according to Transfermarkt, the striker is currently worth just €6m (£5.21m).

If Leeds managed to secure the signature of a Champions League and Premier League winner for such a low price, it would arguably be the deal of the summer in the Championship. It remains to be seen whether Origi will make his return to England just one summer after his Anfield exit, however.

Should Leeds sign Divock Origi?

AC Milan's Divock Origi reacts.

If Leeds have the chance to sign Origi, they should go all out to make it happen.

The forward is a player for the big occasion, and someone who can play at the highest level when at his best. And, whilst things haven't worked out at Milan, a move back to England could be exactly what the Belgian needs to get his career back on track.

The 28-year-old certainly attracted plenty of praise during his time at Liverpool, with Peter Crouch saying after the Reds defeated Milan in December, 2021, via The Daily Mail: "It takes someone different to hang around and play second fiddle, Origi has come up trumps again in the San Siro.

"Fantastic header too, neck muscles, the power and the angle it arrives at, it was a tremendous finish.

"It is difficult to keep yourself focused, he could have moved to a mid-table club but he is playing at Liverpool on the biggest stage."

Leeds' lack of goalscorer proved costly last season, as they suffered relegation back down to the Championship, amid Patrick Bamford's poor form and injury problems.

They'll be keen to avoid similar issues in England's second tier, making the signing of a forward – whether or not that is Origi – imperative to their promotion chances in the coming campaign.

So far this summer, the Yorkshire club have welcomed just one signing, with Ethan Ampadu joining on loan from Chelsea. But, with the season fast approaching, they'll need more than just Ampadu if they want to go back up to England's top flight at the first time of asking.

Origi's future is certainly one to keep an eye on, and if Leeds manage to secure a deal this summer, then it could go down as one of the transfers of the season in English football.

Tottenham: Postecoglou Could Sign Own Hojlund In "Ice-Cold" £77m Gem

Tottenham Hotspur have already enjoyed a fine summer of spending thus far, but they could be set to take it to new heights with a marquee signing sure to truly kickstart Ange Postecoglou's revolution.

Who are Tottenham Hotspur signing this summer?

That's according to journalist Christian Falk, who suggested that the Lilywhites remain interested in Eintracht Frankfurt's star man Randal Kolo Muani, despite Kylian Mbappe having previously implored his Paris Saint-Germain side to snatch him.

Speaking in his exclusive column, the German writer claimed:

"[Kylian] Mbappe asked Paris Saint-Germain to go for the striker of his national team and also Tottenham have registered an interest with the representatives of Muani, but the eventual transfer fee could be too high."

With it reported back in May that the Bundesliga outfit will command a €90m (£77m) fee for his services, this is a claim well-supported.

His acquisition would supplement the earlier signings of James Maddison, Guglielmo Vicario and Manor Solomon, as well as turning Pedro Porro and Dejan Kulusevski's loan deals into permanent ones.

How many goals has Randal Kolo Muani scored in his career?

Signing such a high-quality star would be a huge step forward for Spurs, seeking to usher in a new era under their Australian manager.

Whilst the outlay would be significant, he boasts all the hallmarks of a player who could underpin the regime for the next decade.

After all, the 24-year-old has already lit up German football, having notched 23 goals and recorded 17 assists across all competitions last term for a side that could only muster a seventh-placed finish.

He is young, hungry, dynamic and technically exceptional, with a physicality that could allow him to thrive in the Premier League too. Especially when considering he already has 62 career goals to his name, outlining his experience for someone with so much of their sparkling career left.

It is all these facets that likely spurred FBref to liken him to Atalanta's Rasmus Hojlund, including the Denmark international on Kolo Muani's 'similar players' list.

This tool also helps paint the picture of the French marksman as a powerful creative threat too, as when compared against other forwards in Europe he sits in the top 3% for assists per 90, and the top 5% for successful take-ons per 90, via FBref.

The 20-year-old has also starred of late in Italy, with his physical assets having been lauded by writer Sacha Pisani: "Atalanta’s Rasmus Hojlund is scary quick."

rasmus-hojlund

Manchester United, who too are seeking to cement their early success under Erik ten Hag, continue to push for his signature, in a deal that could reach similar financial heights as Spurs'.

Should they both join these respective English clubs, it is expected that a rivalry will be forged between these two teams in transition, seeking to take the next step up under their new managers.

However, at this moment in time, Hojlund is nowhere near the level of Kolo Muani, with the France international representing a far more mature and developed version of the pacy hitman.

Just nine goals in the Serie A last season emphasise this, as he still has a long way to go before he can be an outstanding asset for a club.

Meanwhile, Postecoglou would be gaining a readymade star, with praise also flying in for the versatile trickster. Germany legend Lothar Matthaus even noted:

"He has remarkable technical ability, he's ice-cold in front of goal and he really throws himself into challenges. The most impressive thing is that he's performing in every game. I can't remember a match where he's played badly. That's the mark of a future superstar."

It is also worth emphasising his physical assets, as he had clocked his team's fastest sprint at 21.68 mph earlier last season.

Kolo Muani and Hojlund are both a couple of gems just waiting to be unleashed on the biggest stage, and in the former, Postecoglou could secure his very own starring striker set to spearhead a new-look team finally set to break the stigma surrounding Spurs.

West Ham Want £55k-p/w Machine As Zakaria Alternative

The task of replacing Declan Rice was always going to be difficult, but now in August and West Ham are no closer to finding his replacement.

James Ward-Prowse seemed to be the leading contender, however, the Irons are set to walk away from the deal after having a second bid rejected for the Southampton captain.

David Moyes wants to recruit two midfielders after the £105m sale of Rice to Arsenal, ideally with Premier League experience.

Denis Zakaria is reportedly on the shortlist, but it is hard to suggest that his seven English top-flight appearances constitute Moyes’ key condition.

Read the latest West Ham transfer news HERE…

Whilst the Scotsman and new technical director Tim Steidten come to understand each other’s philosophies, the search must continue, with Tyler Adams another possible option.

Is Tyler Adams leaving Leeds?

According to GIVEMESPORT, Leeds United are looking to offload Adams this summer and the Hammers are interested.

Reputable journalist Ben Jacobs spoke to the outlet, saying: “I would keep one eye on West Ham United, who are obviously in the market for that kind of player."

As part of his contract, the American had a relegation release clause, ramping upon speculation that he’s set to leave Elland Road.

Although Adams only has 24 Premier League outings to his name, he’d be a far more logical choice than Zakaria.

How good is Tyler Adams?

The 36-cap international only joined Leeds last summer and was viewed as a direct replacement for Kalvin Phillips, who joined Manchester City in the same window.

Then-manager Jesse Marsch, who previously worked with Adams at RB Salzburg, predicted him to have a glittering future, saying: "I have worked with a tonne of talented players. But the ones that right away you can see they have something. It is the work they do on a daily basis, their love of improvement, their love of competitiveness, their fearlessness.

"Honestly, the first player that I ever coached who I saw that in was Tyler Adams. At 15, it was so easy to see that he had the tools, mostly from a mental and intelligence perspective, to do whatever it takes.”

The 5 foot 9 protector possesses a defensive solidarity that emphatically trumps West Ham's other main target in Zakaria. Adams outperforms the Swiss for tackles per 90 (3.72 vs 2.37), interceptions per 90 (1.46 vs 1.04), blocks per 90 (2.00 vs 0.89), and aerials won per 90 (1.04 vs 0.00).

Moreover, the former RB Leipzig sensation ranks within the top 3% in Europe’s top five Leagues among his positional peers for tackles and blocks per 90, as well as the highest 18% for interceptions per 90.

Denis Zakaria

Adams has also displayed that he is more astute and forward-thinking on the ball, outranking Zakaria for progressive passes per 90 (5.68 vs 1.78), and progressive carries per 90 (0.79 vs 2.22).

Therefore, the £55k-per-week titan has still emerged from the rubble of Leeds’ disappointing relegation with a commendable degree of respect and a more reliable asset than Zakaria.

Once hailed as a “machine” by journalist Wes Rucker, Adams looks destined to continue playing Premier League football, and he could go some of the way to easing the departure of Rice.

Chelsea: Poch Eyeing His Next Eriksen In "Top-Class" £20k-p/w Livewire

Chelsea are attempting to complete a major midfield overhaul before their opening game of the season against Liverpool on Sunday.

The Blues have been relentlessly chasing Moises Caicedo all summer, and it is understood that talks have progressed well this week.

Last night, the 2021 Champions League winners submitted a £48m bid for Romeo Lavia and will await to see how Southampton proceed.

However, a storyline that has massively swooped under the radar is their interest is Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.

What’s the latest on Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to Chelsea?

According to the Guardian, Chelsea have been linked with the 24-year-old gem, but Leicester City do not want to sell the midfielder.

Read the latest Chelsea transfer news HERE…

Reputable journalist Simon Phillips provided an update on the situation, stating that contact with his agent has occurred. The player is reportedly ‘happy’ to stay at the King Power Stadium and help them get back to the Premier League, but if the west Londoners accelerate their attempts to sign the midfielder, he’s ‘likely to want the move.’

Phillips also revealed that ‘at least’ eight top-flight sides are keenly tracking Dewsbury-Hall, including Liverpool, who similarly Chelsea, are prioritising midfield reinforcements.

Would Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall be a good signing for Chelsea?

Since making his Premier League debut in August 2021, the £20k-per-week livewire has established himself as one of Leicester’s most consistent and effervescent assets.

During this time, he has become renowned for his intoxicating energy, industrious work-rate and intricate dribbling. Over the past 365 days, compared to his positional peers in Europe’s top five leagues, the tenacious engine ranks within the top 12% for progressive carries and successful take-ons per 90, as well as the best 1% for blocks per 90.

Ahead of Leicester’s unenviable task of targeting promotion, Dewsbury-Hall has already emphatically demonstrated that he is a key performer for Enzo Maresca. In the first game against Coventry, the 5 foot 10 dynamo netted twice in a 2-1 comeback victory with a towering header and a ferocious strike that nestled in the top corner.

He also completed three key passes, five accurate long balls, two tackles, and won 80% of his duels, as per Sofascore.

This performance generated huge praise from opposition manager Mark Robins, who said Dewsbury-Hall could be “one of the best players at this level” this season.

When assessing his style of play, Brendan Rodgers summarised it by saying:

“He is very honest to the game. He has great industry. He runs, works and presses, and he has quality. As a No 8, his job is to create goals and score goals. He’s made a real impact with his honesty and quality.”

As a hybrid between a box-to-box midfielder and an advanced eight, Mauricio Pochettino could develop Dewsbury-Hall in the same manner that Christian Eriksen gloriously flourished under the Argentine coach.

In 255 appearances under Pochettino in North London, the Dane was scintillating, recording 134 goal involvements.

Christian-Eriksen-Tottenham-Hotspur

Eriksen’s role was particularly important, acting as the link between the ruthless attacking triumvirate of Harry Kane, Dele Alli, and Son Heung-min, and the formidable defensive pivot of Moussa Dembele and Victor Wanyama.

In the Argentine's current Chelsea set-up, Dewsbury-Hall, who has been described as “top-class” by Rodgers, could be afforded a similar role, whilst providing more defensive stability.

The next step of Dewsbury-Hall’s career is to pinpoint some elusive output, which could be unlocked in an exciting new era for the Blues.

Tottenham: Spurs Pushing For "Golden Generation" Signing

A report has shared some promising news on Tottenham Hotspur and their chase to sign Gent striker Gift Orban this summer.

Who will Spurs replace Kane with?

The north Londoners could receive as much as £103 million for the sale of former star striker Harry Kane, if certain add-ons are met, as chairman Daniel Levy is now tasked with putting that windfall to good use.

Ange Postecoglou must contend without a guaranteed 25 goal-per-season striker after losing Kane, but Spurs did manage to put two past Brentford last weekend in a 2-2 draw, thanks to goals from Cristian Romero and Emerson Royal.

Spurs have been linked with a host of replacements for Kane, including the likes of Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun, Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic, Chelsea's Romelu Lukaku, Montpellier's Elye Wahi and Orban.

Postecoglou has had time to draw up a shortlist of striker candidates, as the Australian admitted last week that he saw Kane's departure coming for a long time.

“I had a conversation with Harry the first day he arrived and he was up front and honest, and I was the same,” the 57-year-old said.

“You get an indication there that he kind of made up his mind: that if the clubs agreed he would go, particularly if it was before the first game. That was my preference as well.

“There's nothing along the way that's sort of made me feel there's anything other than this outcome."

Read the latest Tottenham transfer news HERE…

Going back to Orban, who has been in red-hot form for Gent recently, it is believed that Tottenham are set to step up their chase for the Nigerian.

That is according to Belgian news outlet Voetbal Nieuws, as translated and shared by Sport Witness, who say Spurs are "increasingly pressing" to sign Orban in the final two weeks of this transfer window.

It's added that Gent's manager, Hein Vanhaezebrouck, believes that his departure is "inevitable", leaving him to omit Orban from the starting eleven for their past few matches.

The Belgian side want €30 million (£26m) to part ways with the African, who they believe can bring them a "jackpot" transfer fee.

This backs other reports that Tottenham are ready to bid for Orban, and while that hasn't materialised just yet, it could very well one to watch.

How good is Gift Orban?

Gift Orban

The forward has picked up where he left off last season, having already scored five goals in four matches for Gent in all competitions.

Orban bagged an exceptional 20 goals in 22 appearances overall during the 2022/2023 season, with members of the media taking real note of his exploits.

Journalist Ryan Taylor, taking to X recently, praised the player as one of Nigeria's new "golden generation" – adding that he's "making waves" in Europe alongside Victor Boniface and Tolu Arokodare.

"Gift Orban, Victor Boniface & Tolu Arokodare. Remember these names," wrote Taylor.

"Making waves in Belgium & on European stage. Throw in Victor Osimhen & Terem Moffi – future looks very bright for Nigeria. Quickly approaching a golden generation for the Super Eagles."

At just £26 million, we believe Orban is surely a steal amid this heavily-inflated market.

Nottingham Forest Could Sign Konate 2.0 In £45m Titan

Nottingham Forest are still on the lookout for reinforcements to bolster the quality of their squad this season, and now a fresh update has emerged on the club's pursuit of a transfer target.

What's the latest Nottingham Forest transfer news?

According to journalist Alan Nixon, Nottingham Forest are in talks to sign Chelsea centre-back Trevoh Chalobah this summer.

Nixon revealed on his SubStack subscription platform: 'Nottingham Forest are in talks with Chelsea for versatile star Trevoh Chalobah,

'Forest want extra class and are prepared to buy or loan the Stanford Bridge squad man who can play centre half or midfield.

'Steve Cooper has been a fan of Chalobah for some time and would like to sign him – as he prepares to bring in money from the sale of Brennan Johnson.'

How good is Trevoh Chalobah?

After struggling to retain their Premier League status in a difficult relegation battle last season, the Garibaldi will need to do a lot better defensively over the current campaign to ensure they can compete comfortably and establish themselves as a top-level side.

As a result, the signing of Chalobah could be a great opportunity for Steve Cooper to bolster the defensive presence at The City Ground, adding the quality and experience needed to have a much more convincing campaign in the top flight.

Over 25 Premier League appearances last season, the 24-year-old – who has a reported £45m price tag – tallied up an 89% pass completion rate, completed an impressive 89% of his dribbles and won 57% of his duels combined, as per SofaScore. Impressive numbers indeed; this is a player who is brilliant at progressing the play.

trevor-chalobah-nottingham-forest-transfer-news-premier-league

Not only that, Chalobah can offer Forest a lot of versatility as he is not only a reliable centre-back but also has a wealth of experience in adapting his positioning to a defensive midfield role and right-back, which would be a valuable asset to Cooper over the season ahead and beyond.

In fact, Cooper could land his very own Ibrahima Konate with the Liverpool star named as one of the most comparable players over the last 12 months, as per FBref's similar player model.

Interestingly, that list contains some of the elite names in football; including Manuel Akanji, Eder Militao and Ruben Dias.

Chalobah and Konate happened to share several similarities in their outputs last season including pass completion rate (87.6% v 87%), shot-creating actions per 90 (0.90 v 0.99), successful take-ons (80% v 71.4%) and interceptions in total (24 v 26). It's clear, then, that these two players are comfortable with the ball at their feet.

Despite being in and out of the Chelsea squad over the years, the talented defender has been the recipient of high praise over his short career, with former Blues boss Frank Lampard waxing lyrical about Chalobah last season:

"He’s such a selfless lad. He doesn’t say ‘I want to play in this position’.

"Maybe (his best position) will become apparent, but I think he’s played really well in a back three for the club."

"He’s a delight to train with every day because he comes in with an enthusiasm, low maintenance, and when you talk about the things you want, he tries to do them on the pitch, which is a great thing."

With that being said, if Forest could strike up a deal for Chalobah this summer it would be a major coup for the club and would provide Cooper with a Premier League experienced talent who can offer huge quality this season and beyond.

Liverpool Submit Bid For "Combative" £26m Prodigy To Rival Endo At Anfield

Liverpool have been dealt many blows in their midfield search.

After dramatically missing out on the signings of Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, who both opted to join Chelsea, their transfer window was heading toward disaster.

However, the signing of Wataru Endo from Stuttgart has provided some relief and depth to the defensive midfield position, but Jurgen Klopp is still on the hunt for more reinforcements…

What’s the latest Liverpool transfer news?

According to ESPN Brasil, Liverpool have had a €30m (£26m) bid rejected for Fluminense’s Andre.

The Premier League outfit wants the midfielder to join the club before the transfer window shuts on 1st September, though Fluminense are ‘reluctant’ to let Andre leave before the end of their current season.

Andre is contracted with the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A giants until 2026 and the club has their Copa Libertadores quarter-final next month, in which he will play a crucial role.

Read the latest Man United transfer news HERE…

The Brazilian outfit’s hierarchy have reportedly informed the Reds that even if they up the offer for Andre they would not allow the player to depart, but given the volatile and unpredictable nature of the transfer window, a deal cannot be ruled out.

The outlet firmly believes that the six-time European champions will not make a move for the Brazilian in 2024, so this transfer really is a case of now or never.

Would Andre be a good signing for Liverpool?

Andre joined Fluminese’s youth setup in 2013, before making his senior debut for the club in 2020 – since then, he has accumulated 148 appearances, establishing himself as one of the most influential and effective players.

During his career, the 5 foot 9 gem has predominantly appeared as a defensive midfield, but he has shrewdly displayed the qualities of an accomplished box-to-box figure.

This season in the Brazilian top-flight, he has started 16 games, managing 94% pass accuracy, averaged 2.5 tackles and 1.4 interceptions per game, made no errors leading to an opposition shot or goal, completed 70% of his dribbles, and won 63% of duels, as per Sofascore.

Therefore, he appears equally comfortable in the technical and defensive segments of play, and his qualities extend far beyond simply being a protector of the backline.

This has been echoed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, who said:

“He’s much more than a defensive midfielder. He’s very mobile. He loves to have the ball at his feet, he orchestrates the play not only with his passing but also with his ball carries.

“His progressive carries are really impressive, he’s combative, and his work-rate is really, really high.”

andre-liverpool-transfer-news-opinion-premier-league

Therefore, Andre offers a different profile to Endo’s.

Last term, the Japanese international was a strong defensive asset, averaging 2.1 tackles per game, making no errors leading to a shot or goal, and winning 58% of his duels, as per Sofascore.

But, on the ball, his numbers look unrefined and uninspiring. Over the past 365 days, ranked against his positional peers in Europe’s top five leagues, Endo sits in the lowest 36% for pass completion per 90 (80.1%), and progressive carries per 90 (0.81).

In summary, it would be logical for Liverpool to continue exploring Andre as he could provide a different dimension from a deep-lying berth.

Aston Villa Boosted As 23-Year-Old Eyes Summer Move

Aston Villa have been linked with a move for Arsenal defender Nuno Tavares before the end of the summer transfer window, and a new update could give them more hope of signing him.

Do Aston Villa want to sign Nuno Tavares?

The Villans have already made some great signings this summer, with Pau Torres someone who will hopefully become a leader at the back, and Moussa Diaby an individual who should make them more potent in attack, following a bright start.

Another player who has been seen as a possible addition is Tavares, with reports in recent days suggesting a move to Villa Park could come to fruition before next Friday's transfer cutoff.

The 23-year-old seemingly has no future at Arsenal, having spent last season on loan at Marseille, with Mikel Arteta not considering him an important part of his plans moving forward. The left-back is now in a race against time to secure a move elsewhere in the coming days, and a fresh update further hints at Villa being his next destination.

What's the latest on Nuno Tavares to Aston Villa?

Speaking to Give Me Sport, journalist Ben Jacobs admitted that Tavares likes the idea of moving to Villa this summer and a move appears to be progressing, although there are personal terms still to be ironed out:

"The player has made it clear to Arsenal that he would like to stay in the Premier League, which is why the Aston Villa move is of appeal. For Forest, I think that one is now as good as dead.

"The other thing to say in all of this is just there would still be some work to do on personal terms as well. It's one to watch between now and the end of the window, but things are obviously progressing. On the Tavares side, regardless of where he goes, it's clear that he doesn't have a future at Arsenal."

Admittedly, Tavares' time at Arsenal hasn't panned out the way he hoped it would, but there is no shame in not making it at such a huge club, especially with someone like Oleksandr Zinchenko ahead of him in the left-back pecking order, among others.

The Portuguese could be an astute signing by Villa, though, coming as someone who can push Lucas Digne for minutes, particularly with the current first-choice left-back not exactly thriving in the role since arriving from Everton.

Read the latest Aston Villa transfer news HERE…

At 23, Tavares, you'd think, still has much more improving to do as a player, and he could flourish so much more by being handed more minutes. With Unai Emery having to juggle his squad across four different competitions in 2023/24, there would surely be plenty of scope for enjoying a healthy amount of action.

The Gunners man enjoyed a good spell at Marseille, with a "dream" debut being hailed by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, not to mention six goals coming his way in 23 starts in Ligue 1. That attacking threat could be a great addition to Villa's squad, and the fact that BBC pundit Garth Crooks has called him "brilliant" in the past is another sign that he could be a strong signing.

Forget Havertz: Arsenal have a special Hale End teen to succeed Odegaard

Arsenal have utilised the bustling talent from their renowned Hale End academy over the years, evident in the squad selected by Mikel Arteta during his reign.

The Spaniard has continued the progression of Bukayo Saka, who has been at the club since the age of eight, with his market value now sitting at a staggering figure of €200m (£170.5m) as per CIES, telling a margin of his journey to the top.

Integrating the stars of the future has always been Arsenal’s trajectory, and is likely to continue as a new wave of talent eye the first team. One of which is superstar prodigy Ethan Nwaneri.

Who is Ethan Nwaneri?

16-year-old Ethan Nwaneri is one name that is spoken about heavily when it comes to Arsenal’s current crop of academy talent.

There was speculation over the teenager’s future earlier in the summer, with noise quickly silenced as it was announced that the club had sealed the midfielder on a scholarship deal with his first pro deal on the table for when he turns 17.

As relayed by Fabrizio Romano, the contract will be for 2.6 years, including the “highest salary offer” made by the Gunners for an academy player, indicating just how well thought of he is at the Emirates.

Deployed in central attacking midfield with the ability to drift onto the left wing, the lively forward has shown his worth in the academy side to get people talking over his potential breakthrough into the senior squad.

How good is Ethan Nwaneri?

Lauded as “special” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Nwaneri has already broken records for the Gunners, becoming the youngest ever player to play in the Premier League at 15 years, five months and 28 days old.

The youngster has all the ability to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Saka, as highlighted by his electrifying start to the 2023/24 Premier League 2 so far, in which he’s scored four goals in four appearances.

It’s reassuring for Arteta to know that one day he could have the eventual heir to Martin Odegaard already in his ranks, with the tricky Londoner displaying a similar playing style and position to the Emirates skipper.

While Odegaard’s fall down the ranks due to age and form seems light years away, Nwaneri’s breakthrough could come beside the Norwegian rather than in his place, with one name looking to be a potential weak link in the position already.

Signed from Chelsea for a staggering £65m, Kai Havertz has had a strange start to life in the north of the capital, where he has been criticised for his performances in the shadows of Arsenal’s intricate midfield.

The German was blasted by journalist Josh Bunting for his “unacceptable” big miss against Manchester United, with the 24-year-old adding pressure to his price tag with some less-than-impressive performances so far. Indeed, he is yet to find the net or register an assist after his big-money move.

A player as hungry and talented as Nwaneri should revise the mishaps of the Champions League winner to his advantage, a similar way that Saka rose to fame in place of £72m flop Nicolas Pepe.

At just 16, the Hale End starlet has a long way to go to impress those at the Emirates, however having seen those before him succeed, the time may come sooner rather than later for the dazzling playmaker. Watch out, Havertz…

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