All posts by z3u9t.icu

According to Sky Sports, Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk is a doubt for tomorrow’s Premier League clash with Leicester at Anfield. 

This is perhaps the worst possible news that The Reds could have been dealt this season, as the Dutchman has been truly monumental for Jürgen Klopp’s men.

With Dejan Lovren and Trent Alexander-Arnold expected to be out, James Milner serving a ban and Joe Gomez completely ruled out, Liverpool look to be extremely stretched for the visit from The Foxes.

Claude Puel’s men do not promise to be the stiffest competition for The Reds, but that just heaps more pressure on them to get a result- anything less and it’s a major slip-up in their title race. What will probably be more concerning for Klopp is that his team travel to West Ham next Monday.

[brid autoplay=”true” video=”369484″ player=”13308″ title=”Liverpool”]

The Hammers have been largely erratic this season, but can boast that they have beaten Arsenal and Man United, as well as drawing with Chelsea at the London Stadium this term. It is certainly not a walkover in east London for any visiting side. With the returning Marko Arnautović, they will be a handful for anyone at the moment.

That is why Liverpool fans and players alike will be desperate that van Dijk makes a return for Monday, as, in truth, they must earn six points out of six over the coming week. With a slender four-point margin ahead of second-place Man City, any slip-up could prove to be vital come the end of the spring.

Liverpool have been dealt a late injury setback ahead of their upcoming Champions League meeting with Benfica this evening.

What’s the latest?

That’s according to Dylan Terry, with the Independent journalist revealing in a recent article that, despite returning to training ahead of the Reds’ trip to Portugal, Nabby Keita remains a doubt for the quarter-final first-leg tie on Thursday night.

In his piece, Terry writes: “Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to return for Klopp’s side after missing the win over Watford on Saturday. Curtis Jones and Joe Matip are set to be available, but Naby Keita remains a doubt. The rest of the Liverpool squad are all fit and ready for the game.”

Klopp will be gutted

While it is true that Keita has not exactly been a first-team regular at Anfield this season, the fact that the midfielder remains a doubt for the trip to Benfica is nevertheless sure to have left Jurgen Klopp gutted.

Indeed, despite having missed a host of games already this season due to injury, the £27m-rated dynamo has still managed to impress over his 15 Premier League outings, scoring two goals, registering one assist and creating two big chances for his teammates, as well as making an average of 0.7 key passes, 0.7 interceptions, 2.5 tackles and winning 3.7 duels – at a success rate of 53% – per game.

These returns have seen the £130k-per-week Guinea international average an extremely impressive SofaScore match rating of 7.15, ranking him as Klopp’s ninth-best performer in the top flight of English football.

As such, the news that the 27-year-old could well be set to miss out once again on Thursday evening is sure to have caused the German coach and his backroom staff a great deal of frustration – as it is clear that a fit and firing Keita is a fantastic option for Liverpool to be able to call upon.

AND in other news: Liverpool now plotting bid for “unplayable” £58m machine, it could be bye-bye Salah

Manchester United have not made any signings as of yet in the January transfer window, but there has been plenty of speculation with a number of players linked with a move to the club this month, and one of those touted to arrive could be the perfect replacement for Paul Pogba if he does not commit to a future at Old Trafford this summer.

What’s the word?

Journalist, Conor Clancy, has given his perspective on Sergej Milinković-Savić being linked to Manchester United, and the effect he could have on the side, hailing the Lazio midfielder “another Paul Pogba”.

Clancy told GIVEMESPORT:

“I think Milinkovic-Savic is just another Paul Pogba in that they’ve got the same skill set. They’re physically quite similar. When they’ve got the ball at their feet, they’re capable of doing similar things.”

Milinkovic-Savic has been linked this month with a move to Man United, as Rangnick comes under pressure to improve the side, but no official bid has been made for the player as of yet.

Ralf must seal the signing

The £63m-rated beast could surely cure the Pogba headache Manchester United are facing with his contract ending in the summer of this year, and fans would welcome the signing of the midfielder, with one Red Devils fan tweeting;

“@ManUtd why are we not targeting Milinkovic-Savic this window. He looks like the perfect match to a rather subdued midfield.”

The Lazio midfielder is enjoying an impressive campaign so far in his 21 games, scoring seven goals, registering eight assists from a whopping total of 31 key passes and an 82.5% pass success. As a consequence of that, the 26-year-old has claimed the most assists in the Serie A this season.

According to Squawka, when you compare the Serbian to Pogba in their last full season for their respective clubs, the 2020/21 campaign, Milinkovic-Savic scored five more goals, converted more of his chances, bagged six more assists, created a higher degree of chances and completed more passes than the 28-year-old United midfielder.

It’s fair to say that he would not only be a good replacement but could potentially be an upgrade at Old Trafford, and Rangnick should not ignore how well the Lazio midfielder is playing right now, and how his influence could inject a fresh perspective into his currently underwhelming side.

In other news: Rangnick prepared to make offer for Araujo

An update has emerged on Newcastle United’s interest in Freiburg centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck…

What’s the talk?

According to reporter Dharmesh Sheth on Sky Sports’ transfer show, via Bavarian Football Works, the Magpies are looking at the defender as a possible alternative to Lille’s Sven Botman as the Ligue 1 side are demanding £60m for the Dutchman this month.

The report claims that German giants Bayern Munich also have Schlotterbeck on their radar and could compete with the Toon for his signature.

Treat

Eddie Howe could seal an “absolute treat” for Newcastle by bringing Schlotterbeck to the club this month as he could be an excellent signing for the club.

The 22-year-old German has averaged a SofaScore rating of 7.31 in the Bundesliga this season, showing that he is capable of delivering consistently high-quality performances on the pitch. This could make him a dream signing for the Magpies as they have conceded the most goals (42) in the Premier League this term and are in need of defensive improvements.

Writer Jacque Talbot has commented on the defender’s statistics this season, comparing him to a German legend in the process. He Tweeted: “The absolute state of Nico Schlotterbeck. Some Franz Beckenbauer level attacking percentiles. Newcastle would be in for an absolute treat if they can persuade Freiburg to let him go.”

Talbot accompanied his Tweet with a screenshot of the Freiburg man’s percentile ranks in a number of statistical categories across Europe’s top five leagues, per FB REF. He is in the 92nd percentile or higher in dribbles completed, progressive passes and touches for centre-backs, whilst he is in the 91st and 92nd percentile for tackles and interceptions respectively.

He is also naturally left-footed. This means that he can add balance to Newcastle’s possession game by being able to comfortably play on the left side, opening up more options on the ball instead of needing to shift it to his right foot before playing out from the back.

Therefore, the monster could be a sublime addition to Howe’s team as he has the quality in defending to improve the team whilst his capabilities on the ball could help the side to play more expansive football to entertain the fans.

The ex-Bournemouth boss must now ensure that he can get a deal over the line for Schlotterbeck before Bayern are able to make their move, if they are to make one at all.

AND in other news, Howe can brutally axe £40k-p/w NUFC dud by signing “deceptive” gem who’s a “nightmare”…

An update has emerged on Sunderland’s pursuit of Preston North End gem Jordan Storey…

What’s the talk?

According to the Lancashire Evening Post, the Black Cats are one of three clubs to have enquired about a potential deal for the defender.

The report claims that Preston are yet to receive an acceptable offer for him as they want a prospective suitor to take on the majority of his wages as part of any potential loan.

Get it done

Lee Johnson must ensure that Sunderland win the race for Storey’s signature, as he could be an excellent addition to the squad.

He is a proven Championship performer and this suggests that he could thrive in League One, as he would be dropping down to a lower standard of football. In the second tier this season, he has averaged a SofaScore rating of 6.92, having achieved a score of 6.93 last term.

Storey has won 61% of his duels and made an impressive 3.4 tackles and interceptions per game in 17 matches this term.

In a recent Q&A with Yorkshire Live, Preston reporter George Hodgson outlined the centre-back’s standout attributes, saying: “When in charge at North End, Alex Neil described Storey as having all the raw tools to succeed. It’s always been about consistency with Storey and really putting his game together.

“He’s an athletic lad who likes to defend and does have the ability to bring the ball out from the back, when he’s at it. Storey is by no means soft but you do feel he is a player who needs to feel appreciated, otherwise his confidence can easily dip on the pitch.”

In League One this season, Tom Flanagan (7.12) is the only Sunderland centre-back who has averaged a higher SofaScore rating than Storey has in the Championship, which is a higher level. This suggests that the 24-year-old could come in and be an instant starter for Johnson’s side.

Therefore, the Black Cats must do everything in their power to bring the £3.1k-per-week gem to the Stadium of Light before the end of the month. He has shown that he can produce consistent displays in the second tier, and his strong performances could help the Wearsiders to push for promotion in the remainder of the campaign if he can improve their defence.

AND in other news, Johnson could get Stadium of Light rocking with Sunderland deal for “wonderful” 220-goal predator…

There are key figures at Manchester United who like Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn.

That’s according to journalist Pete O’Rourke, who was speaking to Give Me Sport.

The lowdown

According to Transfermarkt, McGinn (£27million) is the sixth most valuable player in the Aston Villa ranks, behind Emiliano Martinez, Emiliano Buendia, Leon Bailey, Douglas Luiz (all £31.5million) and Ollie Watkins (£28.8million).

But Spotrac figures show that he is one of the lowest earners in the first team, pocketing £25,000 per week.

The Scotsman has earned plenty of plaudits, with one journalist describing his rise as ‘remarkable’ and another ranking him as one of the top 10 players in the Premier League at present.

The latest

O’Rourke hinted at the possibility of a Manchester United swoop for McGinn.

“John McGinn, I know for sure, has got admirers within the Manchester United hierarchy,” he said.

The verdict

The stats illustrate McGinn’s importance to Villa. As of Saturday morning, he was the club’s highest-performing player according to WhoScored metrics, averaging a 7.18/10 rating.

He’s recorded 2.8 tackles, 1.5 tackles (both squad-highs) and 1.4 dribbles per 90 minutes.

Only Ollie Watkins (six) has notched more direct goal contributions than the 27-year-old (five).

The Athletic reported in the summer that McGinn had impressed Jurgen Klopp, and that he was on Liverpool’s radar as they considered possible Georginio Wijnaldum replacements.

With two clubs of that stature keen, it may not be long before he moves on from Villa, so this is certainly a worrying verdict from O’Rourke.

In other news, fans reacted to this transfer update from Gregg Evans.

Crystal Palace have been in fine form in the opening weeks of the season, but Patrick Vieira’s charges have encountered their first potential hurdle of his reign.

Key midfielder James McArthur has been ruled out of action for up to six weeks after picking up a hamstring injury, and how they cope with his enforced absence will be a significant test.

The 34-year-old played no part in the Eagles’ 3-3 draw with Burnley last time out due to the problem, yet he had started all 11 of their previous top-flight fixtures.

And despite his age, McArthur had been putting in consistently exceptional performances alongside Conor Gallagher in the engine room, with his underlying numbers highlighting his quality.

As per WhoScored, the former Scotland international has averaged 2.3 tackles per Premier League fixture this season, 1.2 interceptions and 1.8 defensive dribbles, placing him in the top-four amongst his teammates for each metric.

The experienced Cheikhou Kouyaté did a solid job of standing in for the diminutive dynamo over the weekend for the trip to Turf Moor, but the long-term solution may lie elsewhere.

Summer signing Will Hughes is yet to kick a ball in vain for Vieira’s charges following his switch from Watford for an initial £6m fee, and McArthur’s lengthy spell on the sidelines could be the ideal opportunity for him to showcase his credentials.

In a recent report, The Athletic’s Matt Woosnam revealed the 26-year-old was brought to Selhurst Park as McArthur’s ‘long-term replacement’, meaning the next few weeks will be crucial for him to back that belief up.

“Hughes was brought in to provide cover and competition in the squad, not as a guaranteed starter,” wrote Woosnam.

“At 26, his role is considered to be as a long-term replacement for McArthur, who is unlikely to continue playing at the top level for too much longer even if he is showing little sign of slowing down yet.”

The £6.3m-rated maestro, who was labelled as “clever” by former Watford boss Javi Gracia, is arguably the most similar player to McArthur at Palace’s disposal.

Therefore, Vieira must unleash him in the enticing run of fixtures ahead, allowing Hughes to settle into his new role and surroundings after a frustrating stint on the substitute’s bench.

And, in other news…Forget Gallagher: CPFC beast with 74 duels won has been Vieira’s surprise star

Newcastle United are plotting an ambitious swoop for Manchester United transfer target Amadou Haidara.

What’s the story?

Eddie Howe’s side have enjoyed a good start to the January transfer window thus far, signing Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid and Chris Wood from Burnley.

Now, The Daily Mail have revealed that the Magpies are prepared to push the boat out for Haidara, who has previously been linked with a switch to Old Trafford.

The report adds that “Newcastle expect the total cost of a deal for the highly-rated Mali midfielder, who is currently on Africa Cup of Nations duty, to stretch beyond £80m including wages over the length of his contract. Haidara would command a long-term deal and wages in the region of £160,000-per-week, which would make him Newcastle’s highest earner.”

Exciting news for Newcastle fans

While the signings of Trippier and Wood have given Newcastle a couple of experienced veterans with plenty of Premier League experience, a move for Haidara would certainly be the most exciting.

The claim that the Magpies’ swoop for the Mali midfielder cost cost well over £80m, and also make him the highest-paid earner at the club, would be a real statement of intent from the new owners.

And, when you look at some of the comments that have been made about his ability, it’s no surprise why Newcastle are keen to swoop in ahead of United to sign him.

Indeed, now United boss Ralf Rangnick waxed lyrical about him when he first brought him to RB Leipzig, saying: “We’ve been following his progress in Salzburg, as he’s developed into an absolutely exceptional player there. There aren’t many players his age with so much potential. He has all the requirements to follow in Naby Keita’s footsteps.”

If Newcastle can beat off the interest from United for the £34m-rated star, then it really would be a major statement and exciting news for the Magpies fans.

Meanwhile, Newcastle are eyeing this experienced centre-back…

Newcastle United have seen many players join the Tyneside club over the years on permanent transfers or loan deals.

The previous January transfer window showed just how capable the Magpies and their new owners are when it comes to spending significant amounts of money to bring in new faces to try and strengthen their squad and push the team forward.

Taking a look back down the years, one figure that the club were supposedly pursuing on two different occasions that they will undoubtedly regret not buying is Luka Modric.

According to Planet Football, former Toon boss Kevin Keegan was eager to sign the midfielder back in 2008 when Modric was at Dinamo Zagreb. They also claimed that Sam Allardyce wanted to sign the Croatian a year prior during his tenure at St James’ Park.

The former Magpies and Everton manager said: “I was then on the way to getting Luka Modric from Dinamo Zagreb, but by then, Mike saw the scale of the full debut and put the clamps on, so I had to make do with Geremi from Chelsea.”

After scoring 22 goals and providing 21 assists in 73 appearances for Dinamo Zagreb, the midfielder did end up making a move to England, but it was Tottenham Hotspur who secured his signature in the summer of 2008 rather than Newcastle for a fee of around £20m.

Having played in 160 games for the Lilywhites across all competitions, finding the net 17 times and delivering 26 assists, the midfielder found himself on the move again, this time to his current club Real Madrid in 2012.

During his time in Spain, the 36-year-old has scored 31 goals and provided 69 assists in 427 appearances, winning four Champions League titles among many other trophies including numerous individual awards such as the Ballon d’Or and UEFA’s Best Player in Europe, both in 2018.

Labelled an “extraordinary” player by Carlo Ancelotti and a “mental monster” by journalist Dermot Corrigan, Modric has been sold for a combined total of just over £51m throughout his time in football according to Transfermarkt and racked up 186 goals and assists throughout what has been a shining career.

Taking all this into account, it’s safe to say that Keegan and Allardyce both had howlers over not convincing the hierarchy at Newcastle to launch a substantial move for the midfield maestro when they were pursuing him before his move to Spurs.

In other news – NUFC dealt yet another crushing injury setback; it’s bad news for Howe

A behind-the-scenes update has emerged on Newcastle United’s attempts to land a director of football…

What’s the talk?

According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, the Magpies may wait until after the January window to make an appointment in the role. Michael Emelano is ready to start and has told the club what he would do, but the club are said to be making slow progress in their efforts to get a deal done.

He Tweeted: “Newcastle might not appoint director of football until after January window. #NUFC process making slow progress as concerns grow over urgency of situation. Reported leading candidate Michael Emenalo has submitted plans & is ready to start.”

Infuriated fans

This big blow from Ornstein will surely infuriate fans ahead of what could be a season-defining transfer window for the club in January. It remains to be seen whether or not Eddie Howe can get a tune out of the current first-team squad, following their 2-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Premier League on Saturday.

The Toon Army are bottom of the table and the only team in the entire division who are yet to win a single league match – having played 13 times. They face off against 19th-placed Norwich on Tuesday night and a defeat would see them move six points behind the Canaries, which could be a difficult gap to close if their troubled form continues.

This shows the magnitude of the task Howe is facing at St. James’ Park in the coming months and suggests that the current squad is not good enough – based on the evidence so far – to keep them in the division, which is why signings will be crucial in January.

Football FanCast published an article explaining why Emenalo would be a good appointment for Newcastle, citing his background at Chelsea in particular as a key reason. Therefore, bringing him in as quickly as possible would surely be beneficial to the club, especially given their dire situation in the league and how important the upcoming market is.

The signings they make over the winter could prove the difference between survival and relegation and they may have to make them without a director of football in place. This is why supporters will be infuriated by this update from Ornstein and will quite rightly be livid with PIF for not moving at a faster pace with a deal for Emenalo, as it could be a big blow ahead of the coming months.

AND in other news, Ashley’s legacy: NUFC had transfer howler with £21m dud accused of creating “problems”…