In a fresh concern for Liverpool, Real Madrid are now reportedly eyeing a move to sign another one of Arne Slot’s stars alongside Ibrahima Konate in 2026.
Update on Konate's Liverpool future
It’s an all too familiar story for Liverpool. In fact, it’s one that they just experienced with Trent Alexander-Arnold. The fullback opted out of signing a new deal and instead joined Real Madrid. Now, Konate could be about to follow in his footsteps. The Frenchman has less than 12 months remaining on his current deal and is yet to put pen to paper amid interest from the Spanish giants.
Reports have even suggested that Real Madrid could come knocking as soon as January, just like they did for Alexander-Arnold. Last time out, the Reds rejected their early, cheap offer. Whether they are willing to lose another player for free instead of cashing in for the second year running remains to be seen, however.
For all of Liverpool’s excellent business, securing Konate’s future would be one of their best deals of the season. With Virgil van Dijk now 34 years old and in the first year of his two-year contract extension, the torch is very much ready to be passed to the Frenchman. It’s just up to him whether he accepts it or joins Alexander-Arnold in Madrid.
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It’s no real surprise that those in Spain are so keen to secure his signature, either. Konate is at the peak of his powers and would instantly replace the ageing Antonio Rudiger. But it’s not just the defender that Madrid want to steal from Anfield. Reports are now suggesting that they’ve got another player in mind.
Real Madrid now eyeing Gravenberch move
According to reports in Spain, Xabi Alonso and Real Madrid are now eyeing a move to sign Ryan Gravenberch alongside Konate in 2026. The midfielder has picked up where he left off last season in the current campaign and has looked better than ever at the heart of Liverpool’s midfield. That was always going to grab Madrid’s attention.
Unlike Konate, however, it won’t be a cheap deal for Gravenberch. The Dutchman is reportedly valued at €75m (£65m) in a price that is only likely to increase as he continues to make the Reds tick.
Full of praise for Liverpool’s surprise package last season, former defender Jamie Carragher said: “Probably the biggest surprise this season is not just him as a player, because a lot of players have an average first season and they grow in the second.
“But he’s playing a completely different role, a holding midfield position that Liverpool have been trying to sign someone in for about two or three seasons. I don’t see anyone taking his role, I think he’s nailed that position as Liverpool’s No 6.”
Nottingham Forest are now poised to sign a “brilliant” midfielder in an out-of-window move, with an announcement expected imminently.
More changes expected at Forest despite transfer window closing
The transfer window came to a close on Monday evening, and Forest are likely to be happy with the business they’ve done, with Evangelos Marinakis spending heavily to ensure Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are competitive once again this season.
The Tricky Trees were particularly busy on deadline day, securing the signings of two full-backs in the form of Cuiabano and Oleksandr Zinchenko, while also bringing in winger Dilane Bakwa from Strasbourg.
With Bakwa joining, you would perhaps expect Marinakis to have sanctioned the departure of fellow winger Jota Silva, but there have now been suggestions the owner cost the Portuguese forward his dream move to Sporting CP.
As such, Jota is continuing to explore his options, and there are more changes expected at The City Ground, despite the transfer window ending, with Taiwo Awoniyi thought to be attracting attention.
Not only that, but there is also a new arrival expected in the very near future, with a report from Football Insider revealing Nottingham Forest have now agreed an out-of-window deal to sign Rangers midfielder Blaine McClure.
An announcement is expected imminently, with McClure set to move to The City Ground on a loan deal to begin with, with a view to joining permanently at some point in the future.
Just 18-years-old, the starlet is regarded as an exciting young talent by national side Northern Ireland and Rangers, but he is set to be a part of the youth set-up at Forest to begin with.
"Brilliant" McClure is one for the future
Given that the Northern Irishman is yet to make a first-team appearance for Rangers, he is unlikely to be a part of Nuno’s plans anytime soon, but there are signs he could be an exciting long-term addition to the squad.
Former Linfield player Glenn Ferguson spoke particularly fondly of the central midfielder during their time working together at the Northern Irish club, saying he has a “brilliant attitude”, before also adding: “I always call Blaine the ‘wee old man’. He is small in stature but has a massive heart.
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“And when you see him playing, some of the tackles would scare you. He is afraid of nobody and he can dictate games with the way he gets on the ball and makes things happen.”
Given that McClure has just 13 senior appearances to his name, which came on loan at Scottish League One side Kelty Hearts last season, he is almost certainly some way off first-team level at a club like Forest, but he clearly has plenty of potential.
Aston Villa could make a move for a “superstar” striker to replace Ollie Watkins this summer, amid doubts over the England international’s future at Villa Park, Sky Sports reporter Sacha Tavolieri has revealed.
Watkins' Villa future up in the air
It is well-known that Watkins has been a long-term target for Arsenal, but the Gunners are not the only Premier League club that admire the striker, with Liverpool and Manchester United recently expressing an interest.
However, with Mikel Arteta closing in on Viktor Gyokeres, and the Reds looking to sign Hugo Ekitike, a move to Old Trafford may be the more likely outcome, and there is a feeling the 29-year-old would be keen on signing for the Red Devils.
The Villa star leaving would, of course, be a blow for Unai Emery, given that he has been a regular source of goals and assists ever since his arrival in the top flight, picking up 16 goals and eight assists in the Premier League last season.
However, it is important that Emery has a replacement lined up just in case, and Tavolieri has now revealed that a Paris Saint-Germain forward has entered the frame as a potential option.
Taking to X, the Sky Sports reporter revealed Aston Villa could make a move for Randal Kolo Muani if Watkins is sold, having recently held talks about selling the Englishman to Man United.
Amid links to Newcastle United back in June, it was revealed that PSG could look to hold out for a fee of £50m, meaning the Villans will need to spend big if they are to get a deal over the line.
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ByEmilio Galantini Jul 19, 2025 "Superstar" Kolo Muani could be solid Watkins replacement
While the 26-year-old found it difficult to cement his place in a star-studded PSG side, he impressed on loan at Juventus after joining the Italian club in the January transfer window, netting eight goals in 16 Serie A appearances.
The former Juventus loanee also caught the eye at the Club World Cup, collecting three goal contributions in as many games, and he has received high praise from German legend Lothar Matthäus in the past, who dubbed the Frenchman a “superstar”.
That said, while Kolo-Muani clearly has the talent to be a success at Villa Park, Emery’s number one priority should be to keep hold of Watkins, given that the centre-forward’s influence cannot be understated.
The former Brentford man has scored a minimum of 10 Premier League goals per season ever since arriving at Villa Park, and he featured in every single league game last season.
Tottenham Hotspur have taken a risk this summer in sacking Ange Postecoglou, especially after the Aussie ended their 17-year wait for any form of silverware.
The responsibility has subsequently fallen into the hands of Thomas Frank, who was appointed as the new boss on a three-year contract, with the hierarchy forking out £10m for his signature from Brentford.
The Dane will likely be under huge pressure to make a fast start to his tenure, needing to get results on the board and help the club rise up the Premier League table.
Their lowly league standing was what subsequently cost Ange his job in North London, with Frank wanting to avoid such a repeat, which could see his job on the line in the near future.
However, if he is to have the best possible chance of replicating the Aussie, he will need additions, with owner Daniel Levy needing to provide him with the options he craves.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new signings this summer
Xavi Simons is a star who has set Europe alight this season, registering 11 goals for RB Leipzig this season, with Spurs open to making a move for his signature this window.
He’s not the only player in their sights, with Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo also under consideration ahead of a potential deal over the coming weeks.
Antoine Semenyo scores for Bournemouth
However, another name has emerged on their shortlist in recent times, with Brighton and Hove Albion talisman Joao Pedro a firm target for Frank, according to Spurs Web.
They claim that internal talks have been held in North London over a deal for the Brazilian forward, who’s set to leave the AMEX after scoring 10 Premier League goals this season.
It also states that the 23-year-old could be available for around £70m this summer, but face tough competition from Newcastle United and Chelsea for his signature.
Why Spurs’ £70m target could become Frank’s next Mbeumo
During Frank’s reign as Brentford boss, he took the club from the Championship and made them an established top-flight outfit, developing many talents in the process.
Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo celebrates after the match
Forward Bryan Mbeumo is just one example, joining from French side Troyes back in 2019, before developing into a leading Premier League star in recent months.
The Cameroonian international managed to score 20 times for the Bees in 2024/25, the most he’s registered in a single season, leading to interest from the Lilywhites and Manchester United.
It appears as though he will move to Old Trafford this window after informing Frank’s side that he’s only interested in a switch to join the Red Devils this window.
Such a decision could see Pedro become a key option for the club in the transfer window, potentially being the Dane’s new version of Mbeumo in North London.
Brighton forward Joao Pedro
The Brazilian has been labelled a similar player to the 25-year-old by FBref, managing to outperform him in numerous key areas throughout the 2024/25 campaign.
Pedro, who’s been labelled “world-class” by journalist Ryan Adsett, has posted a better goal and assist per 90 record, handing Frank the added attacking threat he will need in North London.
Games played
27
38
Goals & assists
16
27
Goals & assists (per 90)
0.74
0.71
Pass accuracy
73%
66%
Passes into final third
1.9
1.6
Take-ons completed
1.4
1.3
Fouls won
2.1
1.1
Aerials won
49%
31%
Alongside his goalscoring record, the Brighton star has also completed more passes into the final third and registered a better pass accuracy rate – able to hand out chances to those around him in the final third.
He’s also won more aerial battles and completed a higher tally of take-ons, handing an all-round and versatile option to the manager in his quest for success with the Lilywhites.
£70m may appear to be a hefty price tag for the Brazilian, but it’s a competitive fee for a player who’s been just as impressive as Mbeumo this campaign.
If he can replicate such talents for the Lilywhites next season, he has all the tools to become a fan favourite and play a huge part in the new era at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
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Manchester City are seeking to retain their FIFA Club World Cup crown this summer as the tournament takes on a new and exciting format, with 32 teams competing to be named football’s best club side.
After much excitement and intrigue, the revamped FIFA Club World Cup has begun, with stars like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Michael Olise already taking centre stage in the United States.
Pep Guardiola’s side can become the first English team to be crowned the kings of world football on two occassions with a triumph this summer, and only the second side in history to retain the title, after Real Madrid’s three-peat between 2017 and 2019.
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The eight-time Premier League champions’ quest to reach the final, which takes place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 13, starts this week on Wednesday June 18 when they take on Wydad AC, who compete in Botola Pro, the top flight of Moroccan football.
City earned their place in this competition via their UEFA Champions League triumph against Inter back in 2023, while Wydad were crowned CAF Champions League winners in 2022 after a heroic 2-0 win against Egyptian side Al-Ahly.
Watch the FIFA Club World Cup live and on-demand here
Ahead of what should be an action-packed opening fixture for two of the four sides in Group G, here’s everything you need to know on how to watch – and who to be looking out for – when Wednesday rolls around…
Where to watch Man City vs Wydad at the Club World Cup
63 games featuring the world’s best players all in the space of a month and all in one place, for free! Sound too good to be true? It isn’t.
Indeed, FIFA revealed back in December 2024 that the extended Club World Cup will be available for free globally, with the world’s largest sports streaming platform, DAZN, showcasing every game with unique coverage which will finally settle the debate – who is the best club side in the world?
Available globally in 14 languages, DAZN is the only place to truly celebrate the groundbreaking new tournament, with easy access provided to watch the likes of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham competing on the biggest stage.
If you are already a DAZN subscriber, then the Club World Cup action is already included in your membership. For those who haven’t yet signed up, all you need is an email address to register a free account on the DAZN website, with no hidden costs or added fees. You will then be able to watch every game on the DAZN app via your TV, computer, phone or even on your games console.
Man City vs Wydad AC (Wednesday 18 June – Philadelphia – 5pm UK time, midday local time)
FIFA Club World Cup Current Champions Manchester CityFounded 2000Most Championships Real Madrid (5)
DAZN
Watch all FIFA Club World Cup games free on DAZN. The biggest clubs and the best players in the world compete in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Watch Every Game Live on DAZN Man City vs Wydad – Who to look out for
Bouncing back from a challenging campaign, City have strengthened their ranks significantly in 2025, with several new signings included in their Club World Cup squad, like Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Ait-Nouri and perhaps most excitingly of all Rayan Cherki.
All three new arrivals could make their Man City debuts this week, while we are also likely to be treated to more spectacular showings from Omar Marmoush, who has scored eight goals in 22 games since moving to the Etihad Stadium in January.
Marmoush and Cherki could form an unstoppable attack which of course already includes Norwegian superstar Erling Haaland. The 24 year-old will be looking to continue his incredible scoring rate since moving to England, becoming the fastest player to reach 100 Premier League goal involvements earlier this year, reaching the landmark with 84 goals and 16 assists in just 94 matches.
Manchester City's ErlingHaalandcelebrates scoring their first goal
As for the underdogs, Wydad are the most successful team in Moroccan football history, winning 22 top flight titles, most recently in the 2021-22 campaign, when they also won their version of the Champions League and Cup Winners’ Cup to complete a historic treble.
Based in Casablanca, they had a poor season by their own lofty standards in 2024-25, finishing third in Botola Pro, but that is not to say they cannot pose a problem to their opponents in Group G this summer.
Undoubtedly their biggest threat is Dutch winger Mohamed Rayhi, who came through PSV’s academy and has been capped at youth level by the Netherlands. Rayhi scored 13 times this season and can play on either flank, but is best cutting in from the left onto his dangerous right foot.
A familiar face to MLS fans will be attacking midfielder Cassius Mailula. The South Africa international spent a year with Toronto FC before joining Wydad last summer, scoring five times and providing seven assists in his first campaign in Morocco. He will hope to be the creative force to unlock Man City’s defence on Wednesday.
Who else is in Group G?
Manchester City will fancy themselves as favourites to top Group G, but there is certainly some stern competition from Juventus, the 36-time champions of Italy, who qualified for this competition courtesy of their four-year UEFA ranking.
With two UEFA Champions League titles to their name, Juve have suffered a slight fall from grace in recent years, failing to win a league title since 2020 and finishing fourth in Serie A this season. Led by Serbia striker Dusan Vlahovic and Turkey wonderkid Kenan Yıldız, they can restore themselves as a global footballing superpower with success at the Club World Cup.
June 18
Man City vs Wydad AC
Philadelphia – (midday/5pm)
June 18
Al Ain vs Juventus
Washington – (9pm/2am June 19)
June 22
Juventus vs Wydad AC
Philadelphia – (midday/5pm)
June 22
Man City vs Al Ain
Atlanta – (9pm/2am June 23)
June 26
Wydad AC vs Al Ain
Washington – (3pm/8pm)
June 26
Juventus vs Man City
Orlando – (3pm/8pm)
The final place in Group G has been taken by Al Ain FC, who are based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates and compete in the UAE Pro League. They finished 5th this season but gained access to this summer’s action after winning the 2023–24 AFC Champions League.
Could Wydad kick off the Group G action with one of the biggest upsets of all time? Find out on DAZN!
Liverpool’s pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz appears to be entering the endgame phase as they look to wrap up a deal for the Germany international.
Arne Slot is attempting to bolster his squad, having already signed Jeremie Frimpong in the summer transfer window, and the midfield creator is next up on his wishlist.
Florian Wirtz
According to BILD journalist Christian Falk, an offer of £110m from Liverpool for the German wizard has already been rejected by Leverkusen, as they want up to £118m for his services.
The reporter claims that the Bundesliga outfit are expecting the Premier League champions to come back with a final offer for Wirtz, and that both sides are expected to agree on a fee of £118m.
This deal for Wirtz looks set to smash the club’s record transfer fee, set at £85m when they signed Darwin Nunez from Benfica in the summer of 2022, but is he worth the money?
Why Florian Wirtz is worth the money for Liverpool
The 22-year-old starlet is worth the gamble, even at a whopping £118m, because the star could be a transformational signing for the Reds, even after they won the Premier League in the 2024/25 campaign, due to the impact he could make at the top end of the pitch.
No central or attacking midfielder for Liverpool managed more than Dominik Szoboszlai’s return of six goals and six assists in the top-flight for Slot’s side, which shows that none of the manager’s options in that area of the park were particularly prolific or creative.
Liverpool's DominikSzoboszlai
Wirtz, however, is a number ten who can consistently provide quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals, as evidenced by his performances for Leverkusen in the Bundesliga over the past two seasons, in particular.
During the 2024/25 campaign, the right-footed dynamo racked up 16 goals and 14 assists in all competitions for the German outfit, including six goals in nine matches in the Champions League.
Appearances
32
31
xG
9.00
9.40
Goals
11
10
Big chances created
12
17
xA
9.75
9.44
Assists
11
12
As you can see in the table above, Wirtz has hit double figures for both goals and assists in each of the past two Bundesliga campaigns, which shows that he can provide a consistent threat in the final third from an attacking midfield position.
Whether the 22-year-old superstar can translate that kind of form over to the Premier League still remains up for debate, of course, but he has done it on the big stage for Germany as well.
The international star scored four goals and provided three assists in seven matches for his country on their way to the semi-finals of the Nations League, which is further proof that he would be worth the money for the champions.
Bayer Leverkusen's FlorianWirtz
Liverpool, alongside a deal for Wirtz, could unearth England’s answer to the German star by signing one of their reported targets, Morgan Gibbs-White.
Liverpool's interest in Morgan Gibbs-White
It was recently reported by a Spanish outlet that Liverpool are one of a number of teams eyeing up a possible move for the Nottingham Forest playmaker in the summer transfer window.
The outlet claimed that Chelsea and Manchester City are also in the running to sign the England international from the Tricky Trees, who qualified for the UEFA Conference League for next season.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
It also revealed that Nottingham Forest would be willing to negotiate with those three clubs for a fee in the region of £70m, which means that he would be significantly cheaper than Wirtz as a number ten option.
The report, however, did not mention any incoming bids or imminent talks planned with the Premier League side for the Reds, so Gibbs-White may not be a priority target for the champions at this moment in time.
Nottingham Forest's MorganGibbs-Whitereacts after the match
Irrespective of whether or not Liverpool finalise a move for Wirtz from Leverkusen, the Nottingham Forest star would be an excellent signing for the club as England’s own version of the Bundesliga star.
Why Gibbs-White could be England's own Wirtz
England fans watched on, likely in boredom, as their team struggled to break down Andorra and came away with a drab 1-0 win, thanks to Harry Kane’s 50th-minute strike from close range.
Despite the fairly dismal attacking showing from the Three Lions, Gibbs-White was brought on with just one minute left to play and did not have a chance to make an impact.
Morgan Gibbs-White for England
Moving to Anfield and playing in Europe, in the Champions League, would put the former Wolves starlet in the spotlight at the very top of the domestic game and make it incredibly difficult for Thomas Tuchel to ignore him.
A transfer to Liverpool could also help to take Gibbs-White’s output to the next level as part of a team that creates more chances and has more of the ball than Nottingham Forest.
In the 2024/25 season, Liverpool created 82.2 xG to Forest’s 45.5 xG and averaged 57.7% possession to Nuno Santos’ side’s 41.2%, as per FBref, which means that the English star would be part of a far more dominant and attacking outfit if he made the move to Anfield.
Appearances
34
xG
6.34
Goals
7
Big chances created
10
Key passes per game
1.5
Assists
8
As you can see in the table above, the 25-year-old playmaker still managed to produce 15 goals and assists combined in the division, despite his team’s lack of dominance and creativity on the whole.
Gibbs-White, once dubbed “exceptional” by Pep Guardiola, scored more goals and provided more assists than any of Liverpool’s central midfielders. Now imagine how many goal contributions he could rack up as part of Slot’s dominant side…
Nottingham Forest player Morgan Gibbs-White
The Forest star has not had the chance to showcase his talent in a team as great as Leverkusen’s or Liverpool’s, like Wirtz, and could explode in the final third if given that opportunity, based on his outstanding output in Forest’s team.
Therefore, the Reds could unearth England’s answer to Wirtz and give themselves two versions of the German star by signing the Tricky Trees talent before the end of the summer transfer window to provide him with a chance to flourish in a dominant side.
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Leeds United are set for a busy summer of transfer business as they look to make sure that their squad is ready to avoid relegation from the Premier League.
The Athletic reporter Beren Cross has reported that Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff is one of the names on the club’s shortlist of targets to improve their midfield options. He claimed that no bid has been made for the English maestro, but he is an ‘experienced’ player that they like.
Longstaff only started eight times in the Premier League during the 2024/25 campaign and Leeds could look to offer him a chance to play more regularly next term.
kalvin-phillips-sean-longstaff-newcastle-opinion
The Championship champions, however, are reportedly looking at another star from the top-flight who would be a way better signing than the homegrown Magpies ace.
Leeds eyeing move for Brentford midfielder
According to CaughtOffside, Leeds United are one of the teams monitoring Brentford central midfielder Yehor Yarmolyuk ahead of the summer transfer window.
The report claims that the Whites, Tottenham Hotspur, Burnley, Everton, Wolves, Borussia Dortmund, and Napoli are all keeping tabs on the Ukraine international.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
It states that the Bees are set to demand a fee of around £25m for the 21-year-old talent, and that no clubs have made any formal offers for his services as of yet.
Caught Offside adds that Brentford would prefer to keep hold of him to utilise his quality in the Premier League next term, but Leeds must now convince them to part ways with the young gem by meeting the £25m asking price.
Why Leeds should sign Yehor Yarmolyuk
Daniel Farke should push for the club to swoop for the Bees midfielder over a move for Longstaff because of his age profile and the quality that he could provide on the pitch.
He is six years younger than the Newcastle star, at the age of 21, and would arrive at Elland Road as a long-term addition to the group, whilst also being able to make an instant impact.
Yarmolyuk, who was described as a “dynamic” player by Thomas Frank, only started 15 of his 31 outings in the top-flight, but showed plenty of promise in the minutes that he did play.
If you look at his performances in comparison to Longstaff’s in the Premier League during the 2024/25 campaign, the Ukraine international appears to be the better option for Leeds on paper.
Appearances
25
31
Pass accuracy
85%
87%
Passes into the final third*
2.93
4.41
Crosses into the penalty area*
0.00
0.25
Tackles + interceptions*
3.84
3.85
Clearances*
0.90
2.05
Dribblers challenged*
3.05
3.41
Blocks*
1.92
1.61
As you can see in the table above, Yarmolyuk could offer more to Farke’s team with his play both in and out of possession, particularly when it comes to progressing the ball into the attacking third whilst remaining efficient with his passes.
These statistics suggest that the Brentford ace is very similar, if not better, defensively to Longstaff, but is more effective at making things happen at the top end of the pitch.
Sean Longstaff for Newcastle
Therefore, the £25m-rated midfielder would be a significantly better signing than the Newcastle man because he can deliver more quality immediately, having outperformed him in the Premier League, whilst also offering more to the side in the long term due to his age.
He could be a terrific investment for the future, at the age of 21, whilst also being a Premier League proven star who can hit the ground running for Farke next season, which is why the Whites must seal a deal for him this summer.
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Manchester United appear to be at risk of losing their captain, Bruno Fernandes, in the upcoming summer transfer window, amid interest from Saudi Arabia.
Daily Mail journalist Chris Wheeler claims that his agent has held face-to-face talks with Al Hilal over a deal to move to the Pro League, in a move that would see him earn £200m over three seasons.
Bruno Fernandes
The reporter adds that Manchester United would earn a fee of £100m for the 30-year-old star, who delivered 19 goals and 18 assists in all competitions in the 2024/25 campaign.
It now remains to be seen what is going to happen with the Portugal international, but he is not the only Red Devils player in another team’s crosshairs, as one of their attackers is in talks to move on.
Man Utd attacker in talks to leave
After failing to qualify for any European competition for next season, Manchester United may have to find other ways to raise funds to bring in new players to bolster Ruben Amorim’s first-team squad.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
There is a deal that was put in place last summer, however, that could provide them with a cash injection, as one of their players is in talks to move on from Old Trafford.
According to Sky Sports, Jadon Sancho’s representatives are in talks with Chelsea over a move to sign for the club on a permanent basis in the summer transfer window.
The Blues want to keep the England international by going through with the £25m obligation to sign him permanently, but they are not looking to keep him on the £300k-per-week that he earns at Old Trafford.
This is why the two parties are currently locked in talks to reach an agreement on a contract that would fit the wage structure at Stamford Bridge, as they would otherwise have to pay £5m to send him back to United.
Selling Sancho, albeit it was a decision that was made last summer, could be a repeat of the howler that United had with Scott McTominay.
Why Jadon Sancho could be a Scott McTominay repeat
The Red Devils sold the Scotland international to Napoli last year and had to watch on as he scored a career-high 13 goals and won the Serie A title for Antonio Conte’s side this season.
United may now wonder whether or not they utilised McTominay’s talents effectively enough, given his career-high in goals for Napoli, and that could also be the case with Sancho.
Jadon Sancho for Chelsea
The 25-year-old whiz, dubbed “special” by Enzo Maresca, delivered five goals and eight assists (13 contributions) in all competitions for Chelsea, which is better than his best tally of seven goals and three assists (ten contributions) in his first three seasons at United.
This shows that the English playmaker has had his best season in senior English football with the Blues, after struggling at Old Trafford for three years, and it is another case of a player thriving elsewhere.
Goals
3
5th
Big chances created
6
3rd
xA
4
3rd
Assists
3.11
3rd
Dribbles completed per game
1.5
2nd
As you can see in the table above, Sancho’s performances at the top end of the pitch for Chelsea rank well against the current United squad, sitting in third behind Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo in creative metrics.
These statistics suggest that the England international is set to be another star who goes on to thrive elsewhere after leaving Old Trafford once this £25m transfer is official, provided the contract talks go smoothly, as he has already taken his game to another level at Stamford Bridge.
Forget Garnacho: Man Utd must sell flop who's worth even more than Cunha
Man Utd could find a different solution to selling Alejandro Garnacho…
ByRobbie Walls May 29, 2025
Therefore, the Premier League giants are on course for a McTominay repeat with this deal for Sancho, which was sanctioned last summer before Ruben Amorim’s arrival.
Sunderland fans will be nervously counting down the days until Saturday’s Championship playoff final with only one huge match now standing in their way of Premier League glory.
There are some bad omens heading into the clash with Sheffield United, considering the Black Cats haven’t won on their last three visits to Wembley, but Regis Le Bris will pray his side can just get the job done by any means necessary in front of their raucous supporters.
Sunderland manager RegisLeBris on the touchline
It could also be another occasion where Daniel Ballard bails his team out in the most dramatic of fashions, with Sunderland entirely reliant on the ex-Arsenal man to guide them to the playoff final.
Ballard's astonishing heroics versus Coventry
If it wasn’t for Ballard popping up with a last-gasp header, the second leg tie against Coventry City would have headed to the nauseating lottery of penalties.
Thankfully, the Northern Irishman was in the perfect position to nod home Enzo Le Fee’s late corner kick, with the header undoubtedly leaving Coventry reeling, but it was a moment of unbelievable ecstasy for the Stadium of the Light to take in.
Ripping his shirt off in delight in the chaos that ensued, Ballard’s imposing presence from these scenarios could well be an effective weapon for Le Bris and Co to call upon for the final, particularly if it’s a tight and scrappy affair.
The Frenchman will also hope his attackers pack their shooting boots to try and upset the Blades on the biggest stage, with one promising forward player now actually worth the same as Ballard after he too played his part in Sunderland knocking out Frank Lampard’s Sky Blues.
The Sunderland star who's now worth as much as Ballard
Sunderland do have a whole host of sellable assets on their books, meaning promotion up to the Premier League will be key in attempting to keep the likes of Jobe Bellingham around for longer.
Ballard was even rumoured to be on the Blades’ shopping list once upon a time, but down the line, Sunderland number 12 Eliezer Mayenda could well be eyed up by some higher suitors himself with his performances for the Black Cats this season showing off a very promising striker that’s still got lots of room to improve.
He showed off his instinctive game when firing home the late winner in the first leg against Coventry, with Mayenda staying alert to any possible errors before rounding Ben Wilson confidently to finish off the gifted opportunity.
That would bump up his goal tally for the season to a nine strikes despite the 20-year-old only starting 22 Championship contests, with ex-Black Cats great Kevin Phillips even complimenting Mayenda as a “handful” after his winner at the CBS Arena.
The decision to snap up Mayenda for a measly £843k as a promising teenage talent has proven to be a steal, therefore, with the Zaragoza-born striker now worth around £3m according to Transfermarkt, which is the exact same value as Ballard.
Games played
48
Goals scored
9
Assists
5
Original value when joining
£843k
Value now
£3m
Much like Bellingham’s value has skyrocketed amongst other shrewd Black Cats buys, it’s not out of the question to assume Mayenda’s value will continue to rise and rise too, particularly if he becomes a Premier League player very soon.
Sunderland's Eliezer Mayenda celebrates scoring their first goal
Before anyone gets too carried away at the Stadium of Light and starts picturing top-flight utopia, however, the playoff final is obviously a nerve-wracking day out that will really test the resolve of Le Bris’ young squad.
But, it could also be the perfect time for his group to mature even more, with both Mayenda or Ballard no doubt ready to be heroes again if a chance falls their way.
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Mikel Arteta decided to star Leandro Trossard up top again for Arsenal’s game against Bournemouth on Saturday, and it would be fair to say it didn’t really pay off.
While not terrible, the Belgian international was pretty anonymous throughout the match, failing to score or assist a goal and fully deserving of the 6/10 match rating he received from the Standard’s Simon Collings.
Like most of his fellow attackers, it’s not been as good of a campaign for the former Brighton & Hove Albion ace as it was last season, when he managed to rack up a tally of 20 goal involvements in 46 games.
So, it’s not surprising to see the club linked with an exceptional international winger ahead of the summer transfer window, a winger who’d be a significant upgrade on Trossard.
Arsenal's winger search
With their attack being the biggest problem this season, Arsenal have been linked with a number of top wingers in recent weeks, such as Nico Williams and Francisco Trincão.
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The former, who has racked up 11 goals and seven assists in 44 games this season, has been a long-term target, and with a £50m release clause in his current deal, could finally make the move to North London this summer.
The latter is a more recent target, and while his reported £66.5m price tag seems steep, he’s been nothing short of spectacular for Sporting CP this season, chalking up a tally of nine goals and 18 assists in 51 games.
However, to take the club to the next level, the Gunners might have to make a statement signing and bring in an established superstar, someone like Rodrygo Goes.
Yes, according to a recent report from Spain, Arsenal have inquired about the £204k-per-week star, who Real Madrid are actually considering selling.
Alongside the North Londoners, the report has revealed that Premier League rivals Manchester City are also keen and that the winger should be available for around €100m, which is about £85m.
It would be a costly and potentially complicated transfer to get over the line, but it’s one Andrea Berta and Co should push for, as Rodrygo is one of the “best players in the world” in the eyes of Carlo Ancelotti.
How Rodrygo compares to Trossard
While Rodrygo’s most played position is right wing, he’s also incredibly accomplished playing off the left, and, with Bukayo Saka being as essential as he is to Arsenal, the left is undoubtedly where the Brazilian would play.
Therefore, one of his primary competitors for a starting berth would be Trossard, so who comes out on top when we compare them?
Well, when it comes down to their output, it’s the Real ace who emerges victorious.
For example, in 50 appearances, totalling 3290 minutes, the 24-year-old has scored 13 goals and provided ten assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.17 games, or every 143.04 minutes.
In contrast, the Belgian has scored ten goals and provided eight assists in 52 appearances, totalling 3241 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.88 games, or every 180.05 minutes.
Non-Penalty Expected G+As
0.37
0.44
Non-Penalty G+As
0.60
0.48
Progressive Passes
4.68
3.75
Progressive Carries
5.06
2.76
Shots
2.64
2.62
Shots on Target
1.02
0.86
Passing Accuracy
85.7%
74.5%
Key Passes
2.08
1.38
Passes into the Final Third
2.88
1.86
Passes into the Penalty Area
1.12
1.65
Crosses into the Penalty Area
0.10
0.36
Shot-Creating Actions
4.56
3.15
Goal-Creating Actions
0.42
0.42
Successful Take-Ons
2.15
1.14
The one-sided nature of the comparison continues when we take a look under the hood at their underlying numbers.
For example, in almost every metric, the “spectacular” Champions League winner, as dubbed by manager Carlo Ancelotti, comes out ahead, including but not limited to non-penalty goals plus assists, progressive passes and carries, key passes, shots and shots on target, passes into the final third, shot-creating actions, successful take-ons and more, all per 90.
Real Madrid'sRodrygolooks on
Ultimately, while Trossard remains a useful player for Arteta and Arsenal, it’s clear that, in practically every way, Rodrygo is a massive upgrade and, therefore, someone the club should be going all out to sign this summer.
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