All posts by z3u9t.icu

Tottenham Hotspur have scheduled transfer talks with an elite club, as chairman Daniel Levy eyes further forward signings alongside their potential option-to-buy deal for Bayern Munich loanee Mathys Tel.

Tottenham preparing for Europa League second leg against AZ Alkmaar

Spurs head coach Ange Postecoglou is pinning all of his hopes on the Lilywhites’ Europa League campaign to make good on his early-season promise of winning silverware during his second full season in charge.

£80m player ready to demand exit as Tottenham plan talks for his signing

He’s preparing to communicate his wish to leave.

ByEmilio Galantini Mar 12, 2025

The Australian watched on as his side fell to a 1-0 defeat in their Last 16 first leg tie against AZ Alkmaar, and with the second leg on Thursday, Postecoglou will be busy plotting how best to set up the Spurs team to overcome this deficit.

Fulham (away)

March 16th

Chelsea (away)

April 2nd

Southampton (home)

April 5th

Wolves (away)

April 12th

Nottingham Forest (home)

April 21st

Tottenham are 13th in the Premier League table, having lost 14 top flight matches already, and are out of both domestic cup competitions after a very underwhelming campaign blighted by injuries to key players.

To make matters worse for Postecoglou, reliable football.london journalist Alasdair Gold broke overnight news that defender Kevin Danso could be set for a spell on the sidelines after he picked up a muscle injury in Spurs’ 2-2 draw with Bournemouth over the weekend.

The Austria international was signed in a last-minute hijack from Wolves to provide much-needed central defensive cover for previously injured first-team duo Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, with Danso even emerging as a leader behind-the-scenes at Tottenham since then.

His absence will come as a major blow for Postecoglou, especially considering van de Ven and Romero have proved very unreliable when it comes to availability this term.

Tottenham are reportedly planning to reinforce the squad this summer to avoid a repeat of their disastrous 2024/2025 campaign, with Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi a top target for Spurs as they plan to reopen talks.

They also want to bring in more attacking options, and Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman has now become a viable option for them.

Tottenham set to be offered Kingsley Coman in talks with Bayern Munich

According to GiveMeSport, Spurs are set for end-of-season negotiations with Bayern over completing a permanent deal for Tel, and during these sit-down discussions, the possibility of signing Coman will arise.

Indeed, it is believed that Bayern will offer Tottenham the chance to sign Coman during these conversations, as Vincent Kompany’s side are eager to offload the Frenchman and find him a new club.

It is unclear what Spurs’ stance is on striking a deal for the 28-year-old, who has suffered from his fair share of injury problems throughout an undoubtedly illustrious career, but other reports suggest Bayern have set a price tag at up to £34 million.

Levy and co also want more potential forward signings with a permanent move for Tel, so this could be one to watch as we slowly head into the summer. Called “unbelievable” by Rio Ferdinand, Coman has been used more as an impact player under Kompany – scoring six goals and assisting four others in all competitions with half of his Bundesliga appearances coming off the bench this term.

Unless there is a major tournament, international breaks can be pretty boring for fans, but this time, there has been something to cheer for Arsenal fans.

The Gunners’ latest academy gem, Myles Lewis-Skelly, was a surprise inclusion in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad last week, so it was even more of a surprise when he was named in the starting lineup on Friday night.

As the Emirates faithful are now accustomed to seeing, the teenage sensation looked entirely at home in the first-team and even scored his first goal for the country.

It was the perfect introduction to international football for the young star, but there might be even more to come from Hale End, as another of their most exciting prospects looks destined to be the youngest Arsenal player to win a senior England cap, and it’s not Ethan Nwaneri.

Arsenal's young England stars of yesteryear

While Lewis-Skelly is the first to come along in a little while now, Arsenal have seen a number of their teenage talents make their way into the senior England side in the past, with perhaps the most notable example being Theo Walcott.

The now-retired attacker joined the Gunners in a £5m deal from Southampton in January 2006, and while he didn’t make a single first-team appearance for the rest of the season, he made his England debut in a friendly against Hungary on May 30th, at just 17 years and 75 days old, making him the youngest Arsenal player to make a senior England appearance – for now.

Then, as if that wasn’t enough, the teenager was included in the 2006 World Cup squad, even if he never got onto the pitch in Germany.

30/05/2006

Theo Walcott

Hungary

17y, 75d

21/03/2025

Myles Lewis-Skelly

Albania

18, 176d

11/08/2010

Jack Wilshere

Hungary

18y, 222d

26/05/2012

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Norway

18y, 285d

08/10/2020

Bukayo Saka

Wales

19y, 33d

The third youngest Gooner to represent the Three Lions, behind Lewis-Skelly, was fellow Hale End icon Jack Wilshere, who debuted at 18 years and 222 days old on August 11th 2010, against Hungary.

At one point, it looked like Wilshere was heading for the very top of the game, and he did manage to win 34 senior caps for the national side, but persistent injuries derailed what should have been an incredible career and ultimately forced him into early retirement in 2022.

However, the former fan favourite will at least have his place on the list of Arsenal youngsters to play for the national team, although with a certain youngster coming up through the ranks at Hale End, he might not be the third youngest for much longer.

Arsenal's future England star

So, the first thing to say is that we are pretty certain Nwaneri will make the first of many appearances for England in the coming months, but at 18 years old, he simply can’t be the Gunners’ youngest Three Lions representative.

Max Dowman, on the other hand, certainly could be.

Now, we should exercise some caution here, as the Chelmsford-born gem is still just 15 years old, and predicting the future of young footballers is hardly a science, but in this case, the Hale Ender looks destined for stardom.

Indeed, despite being 14 at the start of the season, the academy’s “crown jewel,” as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has been training with the first team for some time now.

Moreover, he is already thriving with the U18s, scoring six goals and providing seven assists in 18 games.

Appearances

18

4

1

Goals

6

1

0

Assists

7

0

0

Goal Involvements per Game

0.72

0.25

0.00

In the process, he has become the youngest player to score in a UEFA Youth League Game in September and has already made one appearance for the U21s.

On top of all that, the incredible youngster is reportedly being mentored by Declan Rice, who described him as “the best 15-year-old in the country” while the aforementioned Kulig has suggested he is the ‘most exciting’ teenage talent to emerge on the scene since Lamine Yamal.

Ultimately, Arsenal have a proud track record of producing youngsters who go on to play for England, and with how fast Downman is currently developing, we wouldn’t be surprised to see him break Walcott’s record and become the club’s youngest ever Three Lions representative.

Arsenal's "huge talent" was the original Lewis-Skelly, then he left for £0

Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly has made quite the impression at club and international level this season.

ByMatt Dawson Mar 23, 2025

Manchester United are now closely monitoring an “unbelievable” top flight forward who could cost as little as £42 million, according to a new report.

Man Utd eye new forwards as Zirkzee and Hojlund struggles continue

The Red Devils are expected to enter the transfer market for several key positions this summer, but none more important than a new striker. Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg reported last week that United have a number of centre-forward targets across Europe they are looking at, as Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee struggle in front of goal.

Amorim can finally axe Casemiro for Man Utd's 19-year-old academy "beast"

Man Utd could have a gem on their hands

ByJoe Nuttall Mar 24, 2025

One player who has emerged on their list ahead of the summer is AFC Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, with Africa Foot reporting that the Premier League giants have made signing the versatile winger one of their priorities. United have allegedly already held talks with the Cherries over a potential deal at the end of the campaign.

It appears as though those talks have gone well, as the report adds that United are ready to make a bid worth £33.5 million to sign Semenyo. The 25-year-old has had a very productive season for Bournemouth, scoring seven goals and registering four assists in 28 league games, and his ability to play out wide will also be an added bonus to Ruben Amorim.

Amorim also working on move for Semenyo's Bournemouth teammate

But Semenyo is not the only Bournemouth attacker on United’s radar, as according to Caught Offside, Man United have added Justin Kluivert to their transfer wishlist as an alternative option for the centre-forward position or wide role.

The report states that the Red Devils have been keeping a close eye on the Bournemouth attacker for a while now, as the Dutchman has been very impressive this season. United are not alone in their pursuit of Kluivert, as Newcastle, Liverpool and Tottenham are also interested in a potential deal, but it is claimed that Amorim has ‘already started working’ on his forward moves.

The Cherries are believed to be looking to get around €50-55 million (£42-46 million) for Kluivert, who was lauded as “unbelievable” by members of the press last month.

Kluivert, for his part, is said to be open to leaving Bournemouth if he receives an offer from a big Premier League team, and his suitors think his price tag is ‘reasonable’.

Apps

28

Starts

24

Goals

12

xG

9.62

Shots per game

2.0

Conversion rate

21%

Assists

6

xAG

3.19

Big chances created

6

Kluivert’s potential arrival at Old Trafford could see him be the replacement for Marcus Rashford, who is out on loan at Aston Villa currently and looks likely to leave United as they weigh up the idea of cashing in on him, which will help them bring in new players during the summer.

The 25-year-old has scored 12 goals in the Premier League this season, and his ability to play out wide or as a number 10 is ideal for Amorim, as he looks to add more versatility to his squad.

Chelsea are in contact with the representatives of a forward who Arsenal have met with in the last few days, and it appears the Premier League rival duo are in a hotly-contested race for his signature.

Chelsea set sights on signing new winger for Enzo Maresca

Alongside the host of outgoing transfers expected to take place at Stamford Bridge this summer, Enzo Maresca is reportedly looking to add a quality new wide player to his roster.

Chelsea "willing to submit" £33m bid for Barcelona star to rival key starter

The west Londoners are prepared to spend.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 2, 2025

Uncertainty surrounds Mykhailo Mudryk’s long-term future after a failed drugs test, while Noni Madueke is attracting interest from Newcastle and Aston Villa. It also isn’t a forgone conclusion that Chelsea sign Jadon Sancho from Man United permanently, so BlueCo are understandably looking at other options.

Brentford (away)

April 6th

Ipswich Town (home)

April 13th

Fulham (away)

April 20th

Everton (home)

April 26th

Liverpool (home)

May 4th

Jamie Gittens (Borussia Dortmund), Antoine Semenyo (Bristol City), Kenan Yildiz (Juventus) and Yeremay Hernandez (Malaga) are among the wingers being targeted by Chelsea ahead of the summer window, according to journalist Simon Phillips. However, as per the reporter and other media sources, one name stands out among them.

£200,000-per-week Athletic Bilbao starlet Nico Williams is at the centre of keen interest from Chelsea, following a sensational 2024 for the exciting Spain starlet.

The 22-year-old chalked up 19 assists in all competitions last season and helped his national team to European Championship glory, with The Guardian’s Ed Aarons reporting that Williams is expected to push for a summer exit.

His contract includes a £48 million release clause as well, which would be affordable from a Chelsea perspective, but the major obstacle lies in his extortionate wage demands, rumoured to be around £300,000-per-week.

It is believed Williams is a top target for Chelsea heading into the summer, but they face stiff competition from Arsenal. Their new sporting director, Andrea Berta, met with the representatives of Bilbao’s sensation in the last few days (Foot Mercato), with the Gunners attempting to steal a march on their London neighbours.

Chelsea make contact with Nico Williams' representatives

Now, as per Phillips on his Substack, Chelsea have also reached out to Williams’ camp as they try to compete with Arsenal.

However, as predicted, the salary issue remains a significant stumbling block in any proposed negotiation – something which the Blues are doing their best to navigate.

“The club are planning to revisit the wages side of this deal and have made contact again with his agents to see if anything is plausible,” wrote the reporter.

“Williams stays a big target, but something would need to give with his wages, just like with Victor Osimhen who would still be Chelsea’s first choice striker target if they could agree on wages.”

The Spaniard, statistically, is one of La Liga’s most frightening dribblers with the division’s fifth-highest rate of successful take-ons per 90 (WhoScored).

He’d be a hugely exciting addition for Chelsea, and you can never count the west Londoners out of any transfer race these days. That being said, BlueCo won’t be keen on putting a dent in their carefully organised wage structure, so there appears to be plenty to do in talks for the player as Arsenal provide a serious threat.

Nottingham Forest face Everton at the City Ground this afternoon looking to move one step closer to securing Champions League football for the first time in a generation.

Nuno Espírito Santo’s side will be looking to return to winning ways in the Premier League after falling to a 2-1 defeat against fellow European hopefuls Aston Villa last weekend.

The Reds will be coming up against a tough opposition, with David Moyes’ side only losing one of their last eight games in the league, coming in the Merseyside Derby against Liverpool ten days ago.

After the spirited display shown by his side in the second half last weekend at Villa Park, it remains unclear what changes Nuno will make to his side to give themselves the best chance of claiming all three points.

However, the boss has already provided an update on some of the current first-team players who are sat on the sidelines, with it remaining to be seen if any will return for the clash with the Toffees.

Nuno on the chances of any injured players returning v Everton

Ahead of this afternoon’s meeting, the 51-year-old met the media, and was questioned about the fitness of the likes of Anthony Elanga, who was replaced at half-time, with Chris Wood and Taiwo Awoniyi both missing the defeat.

The manager stated that the club were “assessing” the players, but remained tight-lipped about whether they would return for the clash at the City Ground.

Ola Aina is a player who is once again expected to miss out with the calf problem he sustained in the win against Manchester United, with Alex Moreno likely to return having missed the game at the weekend against his parent club.

Nuno has a huge call as to whether to return to the back four, which he’s so often utilised this campaign, or stick with the back five which he opted for against Unai Emery’s side.

However, regardless of the fitness of players or the system he selects, one player must be dropped, subsequently being replaced by a player who deserves a rare start.

The player who must replace Morato against Everton

Brazilian centre-back Morato has been the go-to man to come on late on in matches to see out a victory alongside Nikola Milenkovic and Murillo at the back.

The 23-year-old was handed just his fifth league start of the campaign in the West Midlands last Saturday, but failed to take advantage of the chance handed his way.

He was caught out by a long ball over the top, with Morgan Rogers darting beyond him in behind and putting the hosts a goal up within the first quarter of an hour.

After such a mistake, Nuno may look to drop the former Benfica ace and hand a start to winger Jota Silva, who impressed off the bench after coming on at the break in place of Elanga.

Such a decision would require a reshuffle at the back, but after his showing against the Villans, the 25-year-old is deserving of an opportunity to start from the off.

Silva, who’s been labelled “brilliant” by journalist Jamie Martin, found the net for the Reds’ only goal, proving to be a real menace at the top end – running the opposition backline ragged.

He created one other chance for his teammates, whilst also completing two passes into the final third – thriving with the opportunity to star in a central role.

Minutes played

45

Touches

15

Passes completed

9/11 (82%)

Goals scored

1

Shots on target

1

Chances created

1

Passes into final third

2

Like Morato, he’s been restricted to minimal starts, only achieving a total of four in 2024/25, but given his showing seven days ago, he needs to be in the starting lineup.

With it unclear how fit Wood and Awoniyi are this afternoon, the Portuguese star should be the man to deputise in the absence of the two first-choice centre-forwards.

Today is a huge day for Forest, needing to win their home games if they are to secure Champions League football, with Silva having the chance to make himself a hero at the City Ground this afternoon.

Dream Gyokeres alternative: Nottingham Forest plotting move for £40m star

Nottingham Forest could be set for a huge summer under Nuno Espirito Santo if they achieve Champions League football.

ByEthan Lamb Apr 9, 2025

As it has been for a number of years, Chelsea’s famous Cobham academy is a conveyor belt for elite talent. The 2010s was perhaps the best era to date for their academy.

They produced currency Premier League stars such as Callum Hudson-Odoi, Ola Aina and Mason Mount, whilst Tammy Abraham, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Fikayo Tomori are all plying their trade at AC Milan.

Their current crop of academy talent might end up being better. One of the most highly-rated players in the academy is defender Josh Acheampong, who was one of ten academy stars to make his senior debut in 2024.

Another Cobham graduate who is establishing himself in the Chelsea team under Enzo Maresca is Tyrique George, who has made a big impression so far.

George's Chelsea career so far

It has been a real whirlwind few months for 19-year-old George, who has become an established member of Maresca’s squad after making his debut last August in the Conference League qualifiers.

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast’s In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

He has gone from strength to strength in recent weeks in particular. The London-born winger now has 20 games under his belt for the West London giants, scoring two goals and grabbing four assists, an impressive return so far.

His first strike for the Blues was in the Conference League quarter-final against Legia Warsaw, and he bagged his first goal in the Premier League last weekend too against Fulham. It was a superb finish, unleashing a first-time strike into the bottom left corner after Antonee Robinson’s miscued clearance fell at his feet.

Blues boss Maresca was complimentary of the attacker after his goal against the Cottagers last time out.

He described the winger as “a talent” and said he is “doing well” in the first team at Stamford Bridge.

It has been a dream start to life as a professional footballer and he could well become the next great Cobham star. However, there is a player in the Chelsea academy who might end up rivalling him for a place in the first team soon.

Chelsea's next exciting academy star

As good as George has been this season, perhaps Jimmy-Jay Morgan will leapfrog him in the first team at some stage.

A centre-forward by trade, the youngster is currently out on loan with League 2 side Gillingham, who are towards the lower end of the table but surely safe from relegation.

It has not been the easiest time of things for Morgan on loan at the Southern outfit. Adapting to senior football for the first time can be a challenge, and he has two goals in 14 appearances for the club so far.

However, despite the lack of goals during his time with the Gills so far, he has some strong underlying numbers, as per Sofascore. For example, Morgan averages 2.3 shots and completes 1.1 dribbles per game.

19-year-old Morgan is clearly a talented forward, as he has shown as a Gillingham player. However, his numbers from his time playing for Chelsea’s U21 side further showcase just how dangerous he can be.

Overall, Morgan’s record for the most senior side of the Cobham academy is impressive. In 34 appearances so far, he has found the back of the net 16 times and has also managed to grab three assists.

EFL Trophy (2023/24)

3

233

1

0

Premier League 2 (2023/24)

14

849

6

1

Premier League 2 playoffs (2023/24)

3

135

1

0

EFL Trophy (2024/25)

3

124

0

0

Premier League 2 (2024/25)

11

442

8

2

Football scout Antonio Mango described Morgan as a player who is “too good for his age”, while Gills boss Gareth Ainsworth has suggested he’s “going to be a hell of a player when he’s older”. Although the weight of goals isn’t necessarily there, his experience playing senior football will have surely taught him plenty.

George has shown there is still a pathway from Cobham into the first team at Stamford Bridge, and perhaps next season, with Nicolas Jackson underperforming and Christopher Nkunku likely on his way out, Morgan can be the man to break into the squad.

Chelsea have signed "future Ballon d'Or winner" who's going to stunt George

Tyrique George could find his first team minutes at Chelsea are halted by the emergence of this sensational forward.

4 ByKelan Sarson Apr 22, 2025

Liverpool will be crowned Premier League champions if they avoid defeat against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday afternoon.

The momentum built up across Jurgen Klopp’s swansong season was expected to be derailed when Arne Slot, an unknown presence from Holland, took his place.

But FSG’s data-driven approach came up trumps, with more popular names such as Roberto De Zerbi, Luciano Spalletti, and Ernesto Valverde reported to have been ‘serious contenders’ for the hot seat by The Athletic.

Now, the data scientists and analysts will need to peer through Liverpool’s distinctive prism once again as a title-winning squad (not yet confirmed, but surely) look to defend their crown while challenging for the major honours which proved a stretch too far this year.

While fans are expecting strikers, left-backs, and centre-halves galore, there’s also the matter of the right side of Liverpool’s backline, with Trent Alexander-Arnold expected to sign for Real Madrid when his contract expires this summer.

The latest on Trent Alexander-Arnold

Fans have held onto hope, hopeless hope, that Alexander-Arnold will renew his Liverpool contract. But everything suggests he is on the cusp of joining Los Blancos at the start of a new era, with Carlo Ancelotti to depart in the coming weeks.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the formalities are all that stand between the 26-year-old and a new chapter over in Spain, with reporters on Liverpool’s side echoing the claims, offering little in the way of optimism.

With Liverpool on the brink of winning the Premier League, perhaps the England international is waiting until all is said and done before accelerating his personal plans to the final stage.

But that stage is, sadly, set.

Premier League

255

18

65

Champions League

60

2

13

FA Cup

13

1

3

Carabao Cup

10

0

6

Europa League

5

0

2

Club World Cup

2

0

1

CL Qualifying

2

0

1

Community Shield

2

1

0

UEFA Super Cup

1

0

0

He’s won the lot, and he could win plenty more on Merseyside yet. But Trent’s head has been turned, and while Conor Bradley is an exciting young talent, Liverpool need to ensure they are well-stocked at right-back next year and beyond.

That’s why FSG are preparing to sign a talented young defender.

Liverpool advancing talks for Trent heir

As per Brazilian publication RTI Esporte – as translated by Sport Witness – Liverpool are one of the strongest teams pushing to sign right-back Wesley Franca, 21, this summer and have now made their first move.

Indeed, Wesley’s representatives have actually flown across the Atlantic and landed in England as they look to canvass their client’s qualities to FSG’s transfer team, with Flamengo hoping to earn around €35m (about £30m) from his sale.

Signing the rising star isn’t going to be a walk in the park, though, with both major clubs of a Manchester persuasion in the mix too.

What Wesley would bring to Anfield

Wesley has featured 124 times for Flamengo’s senior squad after graduating from the academy, scoring three goals and providing five assists for his teammates.

As with Klopp, Liverpool would be foolhardy to try and replace Alexander-Arnold with a B-grade version, but in Wesley, they would be signing a right-back with similar strengths, excelling in passing and crossing, while bringing his own distinctive style to the Anfield side.

Crisp, powerful and steely in defence, Wesley ranks among the top 9% of full-backs in divisions similar to the Brasileiro Serie A over the past year for pass completion, the top 18% for shot-creating actions, the top 21% for progressive carries, the top 12% for successful take-ons, the top 16% for ball recoveries and the top 12% for tackles and interceptions per 90.

This is quite the oversaturation of data, so let’s simplify it: talent scout Antonio Mango has lauded him for his “consistent and well-rounded” game, blending athleticism with natural intelligence and a stage presence that bespeaks a future on the Premier League pitch.

Such an energetic game with a skill at beating his man with the ball at his feet highlights a tenacious attitude that Slot would love to work with.

It would be remiss for the powers that be at Anfield to expect Wesley to replicate Alexander-Arnold’s sweeping creative skill set, but there’s nothing to suggest that he wouldn’t bring his own brand to the team, all the while providing consistent crosses into the box and support for Salah and co.

Looking at his opening performances in the Brazilian top flight this year, it’s not hard to see why he’s all the talk.

Matches (starts)

5 (5)

Goals

0

Assists

1

Touches*

76.6

Pass completion

87%

Key passes*

1.4

Crosses*

1.4

Dribbles*

1.6

Ball recoveries*

4.6

Tackles + interceptions*

3.4

Duels (won)*

6.8 (57%)

His strong start to the 2025 campaign highlights the quality that Liverpool would be weaving into their ranks, with Mango also gushing over the player’s “immense” performances right from the get-go.

FSG chiefs might feel that £30m is quite a steep figure to pay for a young defender plying their trade in South America, especially when there’s so much to do across various other positions.

But if sporting director Richard Hughes can succeed in whittling the price down, there’s every reason for Liverpool to be investing in this talented Brazilian, who recently earned his first two caps for the national team.

Given that Bradley has been in such fine fettle since breaking onto the scene, signing an up-and-comer such as Wesley could be the way to go for a Liverpool team looking to increase their depth.

With both players jockeying for the number one spot, it might even prove to elevate both stars to an even higher level.

Liverpool want world's "best player" in £77m deal who'd be Slot’s own Mane

Liverpool are planning to strengthen Arne Slot’s frontline in the transfer market this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 25, 2025

Celtic are finally Scottish Premiership champions and can celebrate their fantastic achievement for weeks to come, but their latest injury concern may have slightly dampened their spirits.

Celtic bask in the glory of being crowned Scottish Premiership champions

After weeks of closing in on a fourth successive league title, Celtic finally got the job done in style last weekend away to Dundee United, courtesy of a 5-0 victory at Tannadice. Nicolas Kuhn and Adam Idah’s doubles, coupled with an own goal from Ryan Strain, settled an emphatic scoreline before Brendan Rodgers and company were able to taste the celebratory champagne once again.

The Irishman is now the third most successful manager in Celtic history behind Willie Maley and Jock Stein. Come the summer, you would imagine he will be keen to build up ahead of steam for the Bhoys’ involvement in the final qualifying round before the Champions League league phase.

Surprisingly, Tayport Juniors goalkeeper Nathaniel Nwosu could join the Hoops if he impresses during a possible training stint at the club. Although he would likely be a developmental signing, there will be plenty of first-team-ready additions primed to enter the fold.

Stoke City winger Million Manhoef has emerged as a Celtic target and may be a popular candidate to shore up the wide areas, which are set to undergo surgery in light of Daizen Maeda’s sparkling form either on the flank or at centre-forward.

Rodgers has unearthed his new Scott Sinclair at Celtic & it's not Maeda

Brendan Rodgers has found his new Scott Sinclair at Celtic, but it is not Daizen Maeda.

ByDan Emery Apr 27, 2025

Strength in depth will be needed to see off any threat from Rangers or elsewhere next term, while the Bhoys’ exploits in Europe are set to again come under the microscope once the summer has come and gone.

However, Rodgers may now have food for thought heading into 2025/26 following an injury setback surrounding one of his star assets, per reports.

Celtic star Jota set to be ruled out for several months

According to The Scottish Sun, Celtic winger Jota will miss the rest of the season and possibly the start of next campaign due to a knee injury that left him on crutches in their title-clinching victory over Dundee United.

The outlet state that an initial diagnosis is set to rule him out for ‘several months’ following a painful clash that left the Portuguese star writhing around in pain shortly after his role in the Bhoys’ opening goal at Tannadice.

Jota’s record since returning to Celtic in January – all competitions

Appearances

16

Goals

5

Assists

2

Republic of Ireland forward Idah will likely lead the line in his absence, with Maeda being switched to his familiar left-sided berth to accommodate Kuhn on the right flank.

Nevertheless, Jota’s absence will come as a blow to Rodgers, especially with Celtic’s Scottish Cup final clash against Aberdeen now only a matter of weeks away.

Labelled “fantastic” by teammate Idah, the former Benfica star is a cult hero among supporters and adds a different dimension due to his quick thinking and footwork, but the Bhoys will need to find a way to manage without him over the coming weeks.

Manchester City have not set the Premier League alight by their lofty standards this season, but there are still some positive green shoots beginning to appear.

Indeed, the likes of Nico O’Reilly and Omar Marmoush have settled in swimmingly to first-team life in Manchester, with the exciting academy product a first-team regular now, alongside his entertaining Egyptian teammate who already has six Premier League goals to his name.

That’s the case despite the City number seven only being on the books of Pep Guardiola’s men since January, meaning there will plenty of optimism in the air that deals happening this coming transfer window can be equally as impactful.

How Man City could replace De Bruyne in the transfer window

The main area of the pitch that could do with some reinforcements is the number ten spot with Kevin De Bruyne edging ever closer to exiting the Etihad the more the season ticks away.

This has led City down the path of pursuing some statement buys with both names such as Florian Wirtz and Morgan Gibbs-White on their agenda to try and adequately replace the constant heroics of De Bruyne.

But, Guardiola’s titans could plug the gap left behind by their iconic Belgian by snapping up Sporting winger Francisco Trincao instead, despite the ex-Wolverhampton Wanderers man’s main preference to line up down the flanks.

The Portuguese was linked with a move to the Etihad earlier this week but it won’t be an easy deal to get over the line.

That’s because top four rivals Newcastle United and Arsenal are also after the wide forward, while city rivals Manchester United have a vested interest too.

Transfer Focus

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Why Trincao could replace De Bruyne's creativity

If Trincao were to relocate back to the Premier League, he would have a burning desire to prove any naysayers wrong after a turbulent stint at Molineux.

After all, the 25-year-old attacker – who was once hailed as “special” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig – has proven himself to be an assist king ever since returning to his native Portugal, which could lead to De Bruyne’s sad exit being quickly forgotten about.

The on-fire Sporting number 17 was more cold than hot donning a Wolves strip, with Trincao only capable of picking up a mere three goals and one assist from 30 appearances for the Old Gold, before then retreating to a more comfortable environment in Lisbon.

Now, he is front and centre of Sporting’s devastating attacking arsenal alongside goal machine Viktor Gyokeres, with this season alone seeing the reinvigorated forward pick up a substantial 18 assists from 51 total contests.

His career total of 53 assists – away from this season’s count – is some way off eclipsing De Bruyne’s unbelievable 177 tally at the Etihad, but the powers that be at City will just pray he can be as classy as the departing 33-year-old when cutting defences open if he joins, having also once been openly praised as “really exciting” by Wolves technical director Scott Sellars.

RW

171

27

36

LW

53

11

6

SS

24

7

3

RM

11

0

1

CF

8

3

1

LM

6

1

2

AM

1

0

0

To further back up Trincao as a likely heir to De Bruyne’s playmaking throne, the Portuguese superstar has also shown across his career to date that he can shine in multiple different positions.

Of course, the assist-heavy Belgian is most commonly known as lining up as a number ten for Guardiola’s giants, but he has lined up in eight different positions during his lengthy stay at the club, including as a main striker in recent times, a role Trincao can fulfil too.

Therefore, this is yet another box that Trincao ticks if he’s going to be the next ace up Guardiola’s sleeve, similar to De Bruyne’s high standards.

Adding in a player of the 25-year-old’s creative calibre can only be a positive for those at City, with a further low price-tag next to his name of just £34m making this potential summer move a must to complete.

Their answer to Wirtz: Man City preparing bid for "world-class" £85m star

Manchester City could still win their answer to Florian Wirtz by signing this superstar instead.

ByKelan Sarson May 8, 2025

Arne Slot’s first season as Liverpool manager has been nothing short of sensational, taking the club to new heights during the first few months of his tenure.

The Dutchman has already led the side to the Premier League title, losing on just four occasions, two of which have come after they confirmed top spot against Tottenham Hotspur.

In his 55 matches in charge of the Reds, the 46-year-old has won 38, achieving a win percentage of 69%, creating a seamless transition after taking the reins from Jurgen Klopp.

It’s safe to say he’s been a breath of fresh air in England’s top flight this campaign, but he can’t rest on his laurels and will need to strengthen this summer.

The club have gone from the hunters to the hunted, with added quality and depth desperately needed if they are to have any chance of retaining their position in 2025/26.

The latest on Liverpool’s hunt for new signings this summer

With Trent Alexander-Arnold set to leave at the end of the season, it appears that Liverpool have wasted no time in targeting a replacement, with Jeremie Frimpong set to complete a switch to Anfield.

However, he may not be the only Bayer Leverkusen player to move to Merseyside this summer, with Florian Wirtz also on their radar ahead of the upcoming window.

Despite the attention on the aforementioned Bundesliga stars, Xavi Simons is the latest player from a German side to be linked, that’s according to a report from Spain.

The report claims that the Reds could be willing to enter talks to sign the 22-year-old, who may be tempted by a summer switch to England’s top division.

It also states that he could be available for a fee in the region of £60m during the off-season, and is seen as a Luis Diaz replacement should he depart for Barcelona in the coming months.

Why Liverpool’s £60m target could be Slot’s next Gravenberch

Midfielder Ryan Gravenberch has managed to resurrect his Liverpool career this season, taking his stint at the club to new heights after the arrival of compatriot Slot.

The Dutchman struggled to make a huge impact under Klopp after his £34m switch from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2023, mainly being utilised as an impact player.

He started just 12 games in the Premier League, but has been a crucial cog in their success during their title-winning campaign – starting all but one outing, highlighting his importance to the manager.

Such a fee now appears to be a bargain, with the 22-year-old having the potential to improve further over the next few years at Anfield and become one of Europe’s leading midfielders.

However, a move for Simons could see a repeat of Gravenberch, with a Dutch star arriving on Merseyside from a Bundesliga outfit and cementing his place in the starting lineup.

Whilst £60m may appear to be a huge investment from the board, it would be a deal that would improve the options at Slot’s disposal – handing him another threat in attacking areas.

When delving into his stats from the current campaign, he’s starred in numerous key areas, with his talents taming the squad up a gear in their ambitions of retaining their crown.

Games played

25

Goals & assists

17

Pass accuracy

83%

Chances created

2.2

Successful dribbles

1.4

Tackles won

75%

Duels won

5.7

Simons, who’s been labelled “world-class” by former Dutch star Rafael van der Vaart, has registered 19 combined goals and assists in all competitions – having the tools to star himself and provide others with the ammunition to succeed.

He’s also managed to notch a total of 2.2 chances created per 90, along with 1.4 successful dribbles per 90 – highlighting the threat he poses with the ball at his feet.

The youngster’s talents don’t stop there, winning 75% of the tackles he’s entered and winning 5.7 duels per 90, showcasing his work rate and ability to regain possession for his side.

If he can replicate such levels at Anfield, Simons would be a superb addition to the squad, offering Slot an added creative presence at the heart of his already impressive Liverpool squad.

Should he get anywhere near close to the levels produced by Gravenberch on Merseyside, it would be a £60m signing that would be worth every penny – allowing the club to have yet another impressive youngster on their books.

Slot's next Mac Allister: Liverpool pursuing move for "ridiculous" £60m ace

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ByEthan Lamb May 22, 2025