The last time Leeds United were promoted to the Premier League, they had a summer transfer window to remember, landing numerous players who went on to star at Elland Road.

The likes of Raphinha, Rodrigo and Robin Koch all moved to the club that summer, all playing a crucial role in their ability to take the top-flight by storm under Marcelo Bielsa.

Daniel Farke is the man tasked with the responsibility this time around, looking to build a competitive squad after their title-winning, 100-point campaign in the Championship throughout 2024/25.

Whilst his side managed to produce a season to remember in the second tier this season, the gulf between the two divisions is getting larger year-on-year, with quality additions needed to have any chance of survival.

The transfer window is now just around the corner, with the Whites’ hierarchy already making moves to land numerous talents who could thrive at Elland Road.

The latest on Leeds’ pursuit of new additions this summer

Given the recent reports that claim Leeds will have around £100m to spend on new additions this summer, it’s no surprise to see a whole host of talents linked with a move to Yorkshire.

Former star Kalvin Phillips is just one player who’s been touted with a move, potentially securing an unexpected return after his £45m switch to Manchester City in the summer of 2022.

However, he’s not the only midfielder on the club’s shortlist for the upcoming window, with Newcastle United star Sean Longstaff emerging as another option, according to TEAMtalk.

The report claims that the Whites are plotting a move for the 27-year-old star, who’s made 25 appearances in the Premier League throughout the ongoing campaign.

It also states that he could be available for as little as £12m during the off-season, with Everton and Manchester United also in the race for his signature ahead of the opening of the market.

Why Longstaff would be perfect alongside Tanaka

Japanese international Ao Tanaka made the switch to join Leeds nearly 12 months ago, arriving from German outfit Fortuna Düsseldorf for a fee in the region of £3.5m.

Such a deal appears to be a bargain given his displays in Yorkshire, making 45 appearances across all competitions and netting five goals in the process.

The 26-year-old was named in the EFL’s Team of the Season, showcasing his excellent impact within Farke’s side, likely to be a key part of any success in 2025/26.

He could take his game to the next level with the potential arrival of Longstaff, with the Newcastle ace having the tools to make the pair a force to be reckoned with next campaign.

The star, who’s been labelled “unbelievable” by former footballer Alan Shearer, has completed 86% of his passes in the league, whilst registering 2.6 touches in the opposition box – showcasing his impressive displays with the ball at his feet.

Games played

25

Minutes played

786

Pass accuracy

86%

Touches in opposition box

2.6

Tackles won

1.8

Tackle success rate

59%

Duels won

4.8

Recoveries made

3.6

He’s also managed to win 1.8 tackles won per 90, whilst winning 4.8 duels – able to regain possession for Farke’s men and hand them the added defensive quality they will need in England’s top-flight.

Over the years, he’s managed to register 10 goals from his midfield role, having the quality in the final third to make an impact should he find himself in such a position.

Such figures could be able to fall perfectly into the hands of Tanaka, enabling the Japanese star to carry on his excellent goalscoring record from a deep-lying position.

£12m for a player with his Premier League experience would be a bargain in today’s market, making for a superb start to what is certainly going to be a massive summer for the football club.

He'd be amazing with Beto: £17m star is open to discussing a move to Leeds

Star who is open to talks over a move to Leeds would be perfect for fellow target Beto.

1 ByDan Emery May 13, 2025

David Moyes’ return to the Everton dugout provided the most swooshing of lifts back in January, and there’s still plenty to love, but recent results have surely shown the manager that he needs more quality in attacking areas.

The lack of true prolificness across his frontal areas has been among the cruxes of Everton’s issues in recent years, but Beto’s resurgence and Iliman Ndiaye’s brilliant efforts since joining from Marseille in a £15m deal last year have provided a new framework.

Everton need a striker, and Liam Delap appears to be the top target. Ipswich Town’s number nine has been in fine fettle throughout the term and has an active £30m release clause following the Tractor Boys’ relegation from the Premier League.

However, he’s not the only Ipswich up-and-comer who’s on Moyes’ radar.

Everton chasing rising star

According to Caught Offside, Everton are showing ‘strong interest’ in Ipswich winger Omari Hutchinson, though they are expected to face stiff competition from newly-promoted Burnley and Leeds United.

Hutchinson, 21, has been a shining light for Kieran McKenna’s side, bringing pace and potency to the attacking ranks.

Valued at €35m (about £30m), he wouldn’t come cheap but would definitely be the kind of signing Moyes wants to make real headway.

What Omari Hutchinson would bring to Everton

Hutchinson left Chelsea and joined Ipswich Town in a £20m deal last summer after exceptional performances in the Championship on loan.

Five goal involvements across 28 matches in the Premier League have made the prospect aware of the top-flight’s harsh realities, but he’s still managed to showcase his skills.

In fact, his crisp ball-playing skills and willingness to drive attacking play forward have even led data-driven site FBref to list Ndiaye as one of his most comparable players, bearing the raw quality to become a major player at a team like Everton.

But given that The Football Terrace’s Dean Jones has made the bold claim that he’s “similar to Cole Palmer,” The Friedkin Group have surely got to be sold on making their move in the coming months.

Omari Hutchinson in the Premier League (24/25)
Stats (* per game)	#
Matches (starts)	28 (27)
Goals	3
Assists	2
Shots (on target)*	1.3 (0.6)
Big chances missed	1
Pass completion	84%
Big chances created	5
Key passes*	0.9
Dribbles*	1.6
Tackles + interceptions*	1.5
Duels won*	4.3
Stats via Sofascore

As you can see above, Hutchinson hasn’t enjoyed the most productive of seasons in Suffolk, but there’s still something to like from his efforts, active, energetic and impressive with the manner of his strikes.

He’s missed just the one big chance in the Premier League this season. Sure, three goals is a rather modest return, but Ipswich have struggled to apply their attacking system effectively and Hutchinson could rise to the next level in a more structured and fluent Everton team.

Transfer Focus

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

Palmer, obviously, is operating at a much higher level, but the similarities are there. The Three Lions superstar, who Gary Neville called “a different level” after his performance against Liverpool at the weekend, has scored 39 goals and laid on 25 assists for Chelsea since joining from Manchester City in a £42.5m package in August 2023.

Potency aside, Palmer’s underlying metrics bespeak an energy and combativeness that helps him make the flashier contributions with consistency, averaging 1.6 dribbles and winning four duels per Premier League game this term (Sofascore).

The 22-year-old’s gifted ability on the ball is certainly something that Hutchinson has demonstrated too in England’s top flight, albeit to a lesser degree.

The fleet-footed talent, once of a Chelsea persuasion after graduating from Cobham, has been noted for his “seriously entertaining” style by analyst Ben Mattinson and could provide the excitement that Everton crave to go from one level to another under Moyes’ wing.

The next Barkley: Everton considering move for "unbelievable" £15m star

David Moyes is looking to overhaul his Everton squad this summer.

By
Angus Sinclair

May 2, 2025

This summer is massive for Arsenal football club in their attempts to finally end the two-decade wait for a Premier League title, with the transfer window providing them with a huge opportunity.

Numerous players will need to be sold and brought in to hand manager Mikel Arteta the best possible chance of being a success and completing the overhaul of the first team squad.

The Spaniard has done an excellent job in taking the side from mid-table struggling to title challenges in the five years he’s been in charge at the Emirates.

However, his side have finished second place in each of the last two seasons in England’s top flight, looking set to finish in the same position once again this season.

There’s no denying that key areas are in need of investment to take the side up a notch in 2025/26, with the hierarchy already laying the foundations for various moves in the summer window.

The latest on Arsenal’s hunt for new midfielders this summer

The one midfielder whose name is on the lips of many supporters is that of Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi, who’s been a constant target for the Gunners in the last few months.

Arteta’s men tried to land him during the January transfer window, but ran out of time to complete a deal, subsequently needing to wait until the upcoming window to land their target.

It appears they’ve done just that, with new sporting director Andrea Berta confident that the 26-year-old will become his first addition after joining the club after Edu’s departure a couple of months ago.

However, despite the potential incomings, it was confirmed earlier this week that the club were planning on offering Thomas Partey a new deal with his current one set to expire at the end of the campaign.

Whilst the 31-year-old would be a solid squad option in 2025/26, he shouldn’t be a regular starter in Arteta’s side – needing to utilise one player ahead of him at the Emirates.

The Arsenal star who should be ahead of Partey in 2025/26

Declan Rice has been a key player for Arsenal over the last couple of months, single-handedly playing a vital role in their two-legged Champions League quarter-final triumph over defending champions Real Madrid.

His two free kicks in the first leg helped the Gunners boast a three-goal lead ahead of the second leg, whilst producing another Man of the Match showing to seal the deal for the club at the Bernabeu.

The 26-year-old now looks to be a bargain at £105m, but he needs to be partnered by other top-quality talents if they are to go one better and win the title for the first time in over 20 years.

The hierarchy may not need to spend any money on finding a perfect player to play alongside him in the form of Myles Lewis-Skelly, who’s mainly featured at left-back after breaking into the first team.

However, the 18-year-old is a central midfielder by trade, subsequently having the tools to star in such a position – with his stats from the current season backing up his versatility.

The teenager, who’s been labelled “sensational” by former Spurs star Jamie O’Hara, has completed 94% of the passes he’s attempted, at an average of 40 passes per 90 – handing added opportunities to those around him in the process.

He’s also completed 57% of the dribbles he’s attempted, whilst notching 1.3 touches per 90 in the opposition box, showcasing the impressive talents he has with the ball at his feet.

Myles Lewis-Skelly’s stats for Arsenal in the PL (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)	Tally
Games played	19
Goals & assists	1
Pass accuracy	94%
Passes completed per game	40
Dribbles completed	57%
Touches in opposition box	1.3
Tackles won	67%
Duels won	6.3
Stats via FotMob

Lewis-Skelly’s impressive ability doesn’t end there, winning 67% of the tackles he’s entered, and coming out on top of 6.3 duels per 90 – not afraid to put himself about despite his tender age.

The youngster’s performances in 2024/25 have been nothing short of remarkable, having the ability to star in Arteta’s side for many years to come.

He’s already earning rave comparisons, notably similar in style to fellow Hale Ender Jack Wilshere. Like Lewis-Skelly, his ability to evade the press, manipulate the ball in tight areas and dribble, are certainly reminiscent.

However, he should be doing so at the heart of the side alongside Rice, with the boss needing to drop Partey out of the side and utilise him as a bench option with Lewis-Skelly needing a chance to star in midfield.

He'd make Rice unstoppable: Arsenal preparing bid for "world-class" star

Arsenal could be about to make a move for one player who would play a huge role under Mikel Arteta.

1

By
Ethan Lamb

Apr 26, 2025

Liverpool have been rocked by Trent Alexander-Arnold’s decision to leave Anfield on a free transfer this summer and join Real Madrid, perhaps the club’s biggest rival overseas since Jurgen Klopp first arrived.

Los Blancos bested Jurgen Klopp in two Champions League finals, after all. But players are wired differently to fans; they don’t have the same sense of allegiance.

And that’s not to Trent’s discredit. Few fans could truly berate any player their decision to try something new, should they only conduct themselves in the right manner.

At the end of the day, Alexander-Arnold is one of the game’s very most gifted, and he’s Liverpool’s homegrown hero besides. The local lad, the scouser in the team. The 26-year-old is swapping red for white this summer, having, frankly, swerved fans and chatter throughout the campaign. The boos chorused around Anfield, and maybe he needed to hear them.

Ultimately, there’s little that needs to be said on that front. Trent will leave and Liverpool must get on with it. Arne Slot is, by his own admission, “disappointed”, but the Dutch coach has already proven himself capable of overcoming adversity.

The Premier League title is Liverpool’s once more, and plans are already being drawn to replace Alexander-Arnold and go again next season. Jeremie Frimpong appears to be the man for the job.

Liverpool advancing talks for Frimpong

Change is afoot at Bayer Leverkusen. It’s been a disappointing season for Die Werkself, in a way, for they have failed to build on last season’s incredible title triumphs by adding more silverware to the cabinet.

Xabi Alonso will now replace Carlo Ancelotti in the Real Madrid dugout, and Frimpong, 24, is set to try his hand at something new too. The right-sider has been electric and effective on the wing at Leverkusen in recent years, instrumental in winning the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal titles last season, and undefeated at that.

For a shrewd €35m (£30m) outlay, owing to his release clause, it’s a move which makes a whole lot of sense, especially since Conor Bradley is being backed to continue his efforts as a first-team regular.

Liverpool’s move for Frimpong won’t break the bank but will bolster the backline with an exciting part. Let’s not forget, Liverpool are looking to make a fair few moves this summer.

Liverpool chasing new playmaking star

Frimpong is an exciting player, but he’s not got the same aura as his teammate, Florian Wirtz. There’s been plenty of noise recently relating to the German’s future, with Bayern Munich firmly ahead in the race to secure his signature.

However, a spanner may yet be thrown in the works. As per Kölner Stadt Anzeiger – via correspondent DaveOCKOP – Liverpool have opened talks with Wirtz’s representatives ahead of the summer window, who are feeling rather frustrated by erroneous reports that Bayern are on the brink of striking a deal.

Manchester City, who expect to part with Kevin De Bruyne, have also made contact. This could be the dream signing for the Reds, for sure, but the competition is thick and Wirtz would likely cost something in the ballpark of €150m (£126m).

Why Florian Wirtz would be the dream signing

Liverpool need to invest while they are on top, ensuring Slot is rewarded for his sensational Premier League triumph. Wirtz, who can play across the frontline, is only 22 but already stands proud as one of the finest attacking midfielders in Europe, described as “one of the world’s biggest talents” by scout Jacek Kulig.

Florian Wirtz – Career Stats by Position (club & country)

Position

Apps

Goals

Assists

Attacking midfield

169

48

57

Left winger

21

4

5

Right winger

17

8

5

Centre-forward

15

7

7

Central midfield

5

0

3

Data via Transfermarkt

The data speaks for itself. Wirtz has already clinched 123 goal involvements across only 196 senior appearances with Leverkusen.

He’s one of the finest out there, and that’s why Liverpool must throw the kitchen sink at sealing a deal. Alexander-Arnold has been Liverpool’s creative lifeblood over the past eight years, but this German maestro could relocalise Slot’s playmaking hub.

As per FBref, Wirtz ranks among the top 7% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for goal contributions, the top 7% for shot-creating actions, the top 2% for passes attempted, the top 6% for progressive passes and the top 4% for successful take-ons per 90.

This level of ball-playing expertise is something that Liverpool could really do with placing into their ranks with Alexander-Arnold leaving. Frimpong will add a dimension, but he’s not an outright playmaker by any stretch.

Sofascore further the argument, revealing that the Germany international has created 17 big chances across 30 Bundesliga matches this term, averaging nearly two key passes every fixture.

Moreover, the Dutch defender will be expected to jockey with Bradley for a starting spot, whereas few would argue Wirtz would be anything other than a superstar in Slot’s Liverpool.

Kulig has also declared Wirtz a “little genius” after his extraordinary efforts in recent years, overcoming an ACL injury to retain his immense athleticism and hard-edged attacking approach.

This season alone, he’s plundered 16 goals and 15 assists from 44 outings in all competitions for Leverkusen. After picking up the Bundesliga’s Player of the Year award as an invincible champion in 2023/24, he’s certainly proved himself.

Make no mistake, Frimpong would be an excellent signing for Liverpool, but this deal would surely take the cake. In fact, it might prove to be the finest bit of business FSG have completed over the past decade, and they’ve hit the jackpot more than a few times.

Related Not just Trent: Slot's "madman" must now never play for Liverpool again

Liverpool look set for a summer of change, despite claiming Premier League title glory

Posts ByRobbie Walls May 12, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur are now keen on signing an “amazing” defender, who is likely to be tempted by a move away from his current club in the summer, according to Graeme Bailey.

Tottenham eyeing defender amid Romero uncertainty

Tottenham have fallen way short of expectations in the Premier League this season, with Ange Postecoglou’s side on course for a 17th-place finish, so it is little wonder that one of their key players has little interest in sticking around beyond the summer.

Back in April, it was revealed that Cristian Romero is now pushing to leave Spurs, with Daniel Levy cancelling talks over a new contract, which means the chairman could be tasked with bringing in a replacement at the end of the season.

AFC Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen is among the more ambitious targets, with the Lilywhites recently being linked with a £50m swoop for the Spaniard, who is also wanted by Real Madrid, while they remain keen on signing Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi after making a £70m bid in January.

Huijsen and Guehi have established themselves among the Premier League’s best defenders with their performances this season, but there have also been suggestions that Spurs could make a move for more of an unproven quantity.

According to Bailey, in a report for EFL Analysis, Tottenham are now keen on signing Sutton United defender Jack Taylor, having conducted checks on the 20-year-old this season, alongside a whole host of other clubs.

Teams from across the EFL pyramid are interested in signing Taylor, including Bristol City, Millwall and Portsmouth, with West Ham United and Brentford likely to be the main rival suitors from within the Premier League.

The centre-back is set to enter the final year of his contract, and he is expected to be tempted by a move elsewhere this summer, despite Sutton’s eagerness to tie him down to a new deal.

Tottenham now frontrunners and pushing to sign "incredible" maestro for £0

Spurs are leading the race for a midfielder, despite interest from Manchester United.

ByDominic Lund May 11, 2025 "Amazing" Taylor impressing at Sutton

Given that the defender played in the fifth tier in the 2024-25 campaign, he is unlikely to be capable of making the step-up to the Premier League in the near future, but there are some signs he could be a solid long-term addition to the squad.

Sutton manager Steve Morison expressed his disappointment when the youngster suffered a season-ending injury back in March, saying: “That’s probably his season done. We’re at the backend of the season now so anything over a couple of weeks; you’re not going to get them back, but he’s pulled his groin and it’s gutting because he’s been amazing.”

That said, Tottenham should also look to bring in a ready-made replacement for Romero alongside Taylor, given his inexperience, and there are a number of potential options on the shortlist.

Player

Current club

Potential cost

Dean Huijsen

AFC Bournemouth

£50m

Marc Guehi

Crystal Palace

£60m

Eric Garcia

Barcelona

£17m

Isak Hien

Atalanta

£26m

Piero Hincapie

Bayer Leverkusen

£60m

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.

Leeds United will need to bolster their squad to give themselves a fighting chance of avoiding an instant relegation from the Premier League next season.

One area of the pitch in which the Whites are set to strengthen is their attack, after Football Insider reported that the club have doubts over Joel Piroe’s suitability for the top-flight.

The Dutch forward, who scored four goals in one half against Stoke City last month, won the Golden Boot with 19 goals in 46 matches in the Championship, but may not have the physicality for the Premier League.

Piroe lost a whopping 73% of his duels with opposition defenders in the second tier, which does not suggest that he would fare particularly well out of possession against top-flight centre-backs.

It was recently reported that the 49ers are eyeing up a summer swoop for Everton centre-forward Beto to bolster their options in the number nine position, which means that the Premier League attacker could take Piroe’s place in the starting XI next season.

Why Beto could be a good signing for Leeds

The Portugal international could be an excellent addition to the squad as an upgrade on the Dutch marksman because he has the technical and finishing qualities to be an effective top-flight performer, whilst also having the physical attributes to thrive at that level.

Of course, Beto is currently playing in the Premier League with Everton, which means that Leeds would be signing a player who has already been there and done it in the division, whilst Piroe is yet to play a top-flight game in his career.

The Toffees marksman is particularly impressive out of possession in comparison to the current Leeds forward, as evidenced by his physical data in the 2024/25 campaign to date.

Appearances

28

46

Ground duels won per game

1.8

1.0

Ground duel success rate

38%

33%

Aerial duels won per game

3.1

0.7

Aerial duel success rate

48%

21%

As you can see in the table above, Beto wins far more duels per game, and with a greater success rate, particularly in the air, which shows that he is significantly more reliable for his team out of possession.

This suggests that the Everton forward would be far more suited to a team battling against relegation, fighting against the odds, week-in-week-out, than Piroe, who was too weak in the Championship, would be.

Beto is not just a physical presence, though, as he has also scored eight goals from 6.63 xG in 13 starts in the Premier League, which shows that he has been an effective and clinical finisher who could provide a reliable option in the final third for Daniel Farke next season.

The Everton striker is not the only attacking addition who could come through the doors at Elland Road, though, as there has been an update on Manor Solomon’s situation.

The latest news on Manor Solomon

According to a fresh report from TEAMtalk, the Tottenham Hotspur attacker is open to holding talks with Leeds United over a permanent move to the club in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The report claims that the Israel international would like to speak with the Whites over another transfer to West Yorkshire because he ‘loved’ his time on loan in the 2024/25 campaign.

Transfer Focus

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

This update from TEAMtalk came as a reaction to a report from Sky Sports Switzerland last week that claimed Marseille are interested in signing the winger from Spurs. That outlet added, at the time, that it would take a fee of roughly £17m to sign the forward from the Premier League side.

TEAMtalk’s latest update states that Solomon would still be keen on talks with Leeds over another move to the club, despite the reported interest from the Ligue 1 giants, which should come as good news to Farke and his staff.

Leeds must, now, press ahead with a swoop for the Spurs loanee because he could be the perfect winger to provide Beto with the service he needs, should the Whites also land a deal for the Everton marksman.

Why Solomon would be perfect for Beto

The Portuguese striker has scored two headed goals, five right-footed goals, and one with his left foot, which shows that the forward is more than capable in the air and can score a variety of goals.

Solomon could be the perfect winger for the striker because he has the ability to consistently create high-quality chances for his teammates, and can create different types of chances, from crosses, passes, and through balls.

The Spurs loanee was a superstar in the Championship for the majority of his time on loan at Elland Road, and his quality was pointed out by a former Leeds boss fairly quickly.

Early on in the 2024/25 campaign, Neil Redfearn hailed the winger’s ability, saying: “He’s got a quality that is better than this level, you can obviously see that. Initially in the first 20 minutes it was like tackling smoke. He was unplayable at times.”

Appearances

39

xG

8.15

Goals

10

Key passes per game

1.7

Big chances created

21

Assists

12

As you can see in the table above, Solomon backed up that praise by ending the season with a staggering haul of 31 goals and ‘big chances’ created in 39 appearances in the league for Leeds.

A return of 21 ‘big chances’ created in 39 matches speaks to his ability to consistently unlock opposition defences in different ways, as they were unable to stop him because of the variation in his game.

As you can see in the highlights above, the £17m-rated whiz has the ability to burst down the line to deliver teasing crosses into the box, which could be perfect for a physical forward who looks to get ahead of defenders to bundle the ball in, as he brilliantly assisted Mateo Joseph’s strike.

This suggests that Solomon would be a dream for Beto because he has the quality to ensure that the striker constantly has service in the box, giving him plenty of opportunities to find the back of the net in the Premier League.

Therefore, the 49ers must push to get deals over the line for the Spurs and Everton attackers in the upcoming summer transfer window, in order to give Farke and his team the best possible chance of avoiding an instant relegation back down to the Championship.

Leeds could seal best striker signing since Wood with move for 20-goal star

Leeds could land their best striker signing since Chris Wood in a swoop for this star.

ByDan Emery May 7, 2025

Everton are set to embark on an exciting new era at Bramley-Moore Dock and could make a bargain signing to kick off their summer business, according to a report.

Everton preparing for summer of mass changes

David Moyes has comfortably ensured top-flight survival for Everton and has managed to revive a squad that has plenty of uncertainty hanging over it heading into the summer.

With the Toffees set to say farewell to Goodison Park, key figures such as Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Seamus Coleman and Ashley Young are yet to commit to extensions, while several loanees find themselves in limbo.

Abdoulaye Doucoure has commented on his future at the club, stirring debate among supporters, stating: “There’s not been any talks so far with Everton. I think personally, I don’t wait for them to give me a contract or not, because my contract is finished. I already have some proposals on the table, to be honest, and I think in the next three weeks, I will have to take my decision — whether I stay or not.”

Clearly, Moyes has plenty of work to do in the market before his squad is in ideal shape for next season. Ipswich Town pair Liam Delap and Omari Hutchinson have emerged as Everton targets, offering an inkling of the direction his recruitment strategy could take.

Burnley’s Josh Brownhill could join the Toffees on a free transfer, which would be a wise move in the face of PSR regulations, which could otherwise create problems in a moment of positivity.

Sky Sports reporter says 49ers want to sign £20m+ Everton star for Leeds

Leeds have added a new attacker to their transfer shortlist heading into the summer.

By
Brett Worthington

May 8, 2025

Tapping into that theme, another star from the EFL Championship may also arrive this summer without the Toffees having to spend a penny in transfer fees.

Everton want to land Leeds United full-back Junior Firpo

According to Everton News, as per journalist Graeme Bailey, Junior Firpo could make a surprise move to Everton this summer on a free transfer once his contract expires at Leeds United.

While Spain is thought to be his preference, Everton appear to be at the front of the queue if the defender opts to remain in England.

Labelled “immense” by Conor McGilligan, the Dominican Republic international has registered four goals and 10 assists this campaign, playing a major role in the Whites’ promotion back to the top flight.

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Ricardo Chavez Soto	Monterrey
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Juan Sanabria	Atletico San Luis

Earning £60,000 per week at Elland Road, it is said that Firpo also has admirers from Spain, where he came through the ranks at Real Betis before joining Barcelona back in 2019.

Previously, the Santo Domingo-born defender struggled with life in the Premier League under Marcelo Bielsa, but he has been a key attacking force down the left flank this term and appears primed for another tilt at the top flight.

Now, Everton’s task is to put forward a convincing argument that they are a better proposition than Leeds in the long run. Given their newfound stability, they stand a good chance of winning the race for his signature.

Sunderland are now only one nail-biting clash away from finally returning to the Premier League.

Of course, this isn’t going to be a straightforward passage back up to the promised land, as Chris Wilder’s intimidating Sheffield United will be aiming to make the Wearside outfit’s day out to Wembley dour by securing their own reentry to the exclusive division.

If Regis Le Bris’ side do perform to the heights they know they’re capable of and hold their nerve, however, top-flight football could finally be back on the menu at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland's key stars at Wembley

The Blades might well boast the Championship’s Player of the Season in Gustavo Hamer among other standout performers, but the Frenchman will back his own set of stars to get the job done regardless.

After all, Le Bris has his own creative menace down the left flank too in Enzo Le Fee, with the slick loanee’s excellent corner kick delivery against Coventry City last time out sealing Sunderland’s dramatic progression to Wembley.

Of course, Daniel Ballard also had to be in the perfect spot to power home the 25-year-old’s cross, with this ability to pop up with a moment of magic an effective weapon to call upon in the nerve-wracking final.

Alongside both Ballard and Le Fee, Le Bris also has Jobe Bellingham, Wilson Isidor and Eliezer Mayenda at his disposal in attack, with both Mayenda and Isidor getting in on the goalscoring action during the first leg victory over the Sky Blues.

But, Patrick Roberts might not be as fortunate as the tricky trio when it comes to making the starting XI for Wembley.

Consequently, the Black Cats boss could now be tempted to start Sunderland’s new version of Jack Clarke for the one-off tie over the hit-and-miss 28-year-old.

Clarke has history in the play-offs, albeit in League One, notably playing at Wembley on that day in 2022 when the Black Cats defeated Wycombe 2-0 courtesy of goals from Elliot Embleton and Ross Stewart.

Sunderland 2022 play-off final XI

GK – Anthony Patterson

RB – Lynden Gooch

CB – Bailey Wright

CB – Danny Batth

LB – Dennis Cirkis

CM – Corry Evans

CM – Luke O’Nien

RW – Patrick Roberts

CAM – Alex Pritchard

LW – Elliot Embleton

CF – Ross Stewart

While Clarke didn’t start, he did come on as a second-half substitute for Embleton. On this occasion, however, their new Clarke must be given his big day out in the capital.

Sunderland's new Jack Clarke

In an ideal reality, the promotion-chasers would still have their former hero around as they attempt to navigate a passage back up to the Premier League.

But, Clarke chose to join Premier League-bound Ipswich Town last summer instead. Yet, that doesn’t diminish his superb tally of 23 goals and 28 assists for the Black Cats when he was performing at the peak of his powers.

Whilst Roberts has shown throughout his long stay on Wearside to date that he can also conjure up moments of quality like Clarke before him – with nine goals and 17 assists coming his way from 144 games – Sunderland’s next iteration of their revered ex-number 20 could instead be Romaine Mundle.

This could result in Mundle coming in for Roberts down the right, despite the ex-Standard Liege man being more of a natural option on the left flank. But, after the 29-year-old failed to register a single on-target effort on the Sky Blues goal across two legs, drastic measures might be deemed necessary.

Mundle’s career G/A record by position

Position played

Games

Goals

Assists

LW

39

8

6

RW

35

6

5

LM

11

2

3

AM

5

0

2

RM

4

1

0

CF

3

0

0

RB

1

1

0

Sourced by Transfermarkt

This suggestion doesn’t even look that radical when you assess the table above with Mundle actually playing 35 career games down the right wing previously, culminating in a healthy six goals and five assists coming his way.

Away from his overall career numbers, however, and he’s already showing why he could be the most fitting recipient of the baton from Clarke when donning a Black Cats strip, with Mundle tallying up five goals and two assists across 23 league contests this season when injury-free.

Previously hailed as “brilliant” by Sunderland skipper Dan Neil, Mundle could well find he’s chucked out to the right flank for his team’s all-or-nothing playoff final, therefore, with the Frenchman having to play his best possible XI no matter what.

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Posts ByKelan Sarson May 21, 2025

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

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

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.

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ByKelan Sarson May 8, 2025