All posts by z3u9t.icu

With Thierno Barry already on his way, Everton and The Friedkin Group are now reportedly pushing to sign a World Cup-winning defender at a bargain price this summer.

Michael Keane "delighted" to extend Everton deal

The good news has kept coming for Everton following reports that they reached an agreement to sign Villarreal forward Barry, with Michael Keane officially putting pen to paper on a new deal. Whilst the Toffees failed to keep hold of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, they have managed to avoid the same fate in the defender’s case, who has signed a one-year extension.

After confirming his new contract, Keane told Everton’s official website: “I love Everton and have been massively proud to play for this club since the day I joined so I’m delighted to extend my stay here.

“The manager wants a competitive squad and I still feel I have a lot to give to Everton. We’ve been through a difficult few years but it’s an exciting time ahead for us as players and our brilliant fans.

“We’ve got a world-class new stadium to play in, and our form under the manager last season shows there’s a lot of reasons to be positive. I’m looking forward to being part of it.”

Bigger talent than Branthwaite: Everton enter race for £34m "diamond"

Everton are interested in signing a new central defender or two this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 4, 2025

As the defender said himself, David Moyes is keen to put together a “competitive squad” at the Hill Dickinson Stadium and that has led to decisions such as Keane’s extension and Barry’s pending arrival.

The Toffees may not be done there, either. Reports are now suggesting that Everton have set their sights on the likes of Wilfred Ndidi and stepped up their chase to sign a World Cup-winning defender this summer.

Everton hold advanced talks to sign Tagliafico

According to reports in Spain, Everton have now held advanced talks to sign Nicolas Tagliafico and are pushing to secure his signature. The talented left-back is now a free agent after leaving a Lyon side in financial turmoil and could yet be on his way to the Premier League.

At a bargain price, the Toffees could land an experienced World Cup-winning defender for Moyes and kickstart a new era in style. Alongside Barry, the Argentina international would be an impressive signing.

Minutes

3,082

1,902

Assists

2

1

Tackles Won

38

37

Ball Recoveries

88

102

In fewer minutes, it was Tagliafico who stood out compared to Vitaly Mykolenko last season and his place as Everton’s starting left-back is likely to be a guarantee if he completes a summer switch.

Dubbed “superb” by scout Jacek Kulig in the early days of his career, Tagliafico is now a player with plenty of experience at 32 years old. Adding his first Premier League move to an impressive list of clubs would be quite the way for the defender to round things off too, and that could see Everton seal a bargain deal.

Arsenal are in talks over a move for Crystal Palace forward Eberechi Eze, according to widespread reports, but another high-profile attacker may well follow the 27-year-old to north London.

£140m signings start alongside Zubimendi: AI predicts Arsenal's 2025/26 line-up

It could be a productive transfer market for the Gunners.

4 ByCharlie Smith Jun 28, 2025

GiveMeSport and other reliable media outlets reported that Eze’s representatives held “positive” talks with Arsenal last weekend, and the England international is pretty keen on a switch to the potential Premier League title challengers.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

25/26 – summer

£5m

Andrea Berta also possesses the option of paying his £68 million release clause in installments, which they’ll likely take up, as Arsenal look to back Mikel Arteta whilst erring on the side of caution when it comes to PSR.

The notion of spreading out Eze’s transfer fee will also be a huge help when it comes to signing another star winger, which is what Arsenal are expected to try and do (Fabrizio Romano).

It is believed that Arsenal are looking at both a right and left-winger, with Eze potentially poised to fill just one of these spots as Berta looks at signing another wide player to come in with the 27-year-old.

One of their other wide targets, alongside Chelsea forward Noni Madueke, is £206,000-per-week Real Madrid forward Rodrygo.

The Brazil international is said to be a “dream” target for Arteta’s side, and he could push to leave the Bernabeu once their Club World Cup campaign concludes.

“I think Rodrygo is quickly emerging as Arsenal’s dream target,” journalist Graeme Bailey told TBR Football this week.

“From what I’m hearing, from people close to the situation, once Real Madrid get back from the Club World Cup, Rodrygo is going to make it clear that he wants to leave.

“I think everything points towards Rodrygo leaving and my belief is that Arsenal will be towards the top of his desired places to go.”

Arsenal will move to sign Rodrygo with Eberechi Eze on one condition

Now, GiveMeSport provide another update on Arsenal’s interest in the 24-year-old – who’s bagged 14 goals and 11 assists in all competitions since the start of 2024/2025.

They report that Arsenal would love to sign Rodrygo this summer, and will move for the ex-Santos sensation with Eze on one condition.

If they get clear signals from the South American that he’s willing to leave Real and make a Premier League move, then Arsenal will make an approach, but until that point, they’re still waiting for his green-light.

Considering the other reports that he’s likely to request a transfer from Real, Arteta might not be waiting too long for Rodrygo’s approval, so this could be one to keep an eye on.

Los Blancos legend, Luka Modrić, has already stated that Rodrygo is a “world class superstar” – partly highlighting why Arsenal are so keen on him.

They say strengthen while you’re on top, and that is exactly what Liverpool have done this summer, with the runaway Premier League champions having already secured three marquee deals to bolster Arne Slot’s ranks.

After a quiet first summer in charge, the Dutch coach has so far welcomed Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez into the fold – alongside two new goalkeepers – with rumours still rife regarding a further move for Crystal Palace captain, Marc Guehi.

With Darwin Nunez’s impending switch to Napoli also heightening the need for a striker, the Reds don’t appear to be done just yet – a scary prospect for the chasing pack.

The dream XI Liverpool could build: Wirtz signs & "the next Mbappe" arrives

Liverpool are making sweeping changes in the transfer market as Slot prepares to defend his PL title.

3 ByAngus Sinclair Jun 3, 2025

What is yet to be seen, however, is whether such incomings will spark a raft of further outgoings at Anfield to help balance the books, with speculation rife over Luis Diaz’s future at the club.

The latest on Luis Diaz's Liverpool future

Previously looking set to be the man to replace Sadio Mane on the left flank, Diaz found a new home for himself through the middle under the new Slot regime last term, resulting in his best return for the club to date with 25 goals and assists in 50 games in all competitions.

The 28-year-old appears to have properly found his groove in a Liverpool shirt, although with just two years left to run on his existing deal, it remains to be seen what the future lies in store, with talk of an extension having seemingly gone quiet.

That uncertainty has provided a potential opportunity for suitors to pounce, with recent months having seen Barcelona heavily linked with a move, while interest in the Colombian has also emerged from Saudi Arabia.

A further destination also presented itself in the form of Bayern Munich, with the Bundesliga side’s director of sport, Max Eberl, believed to have made contact amid the hopes of landing the £73m-rated forward.

As revealed by journalist Paul Joyce, that approach has been rebuffed by the Merseysiders, with Liverpool holding firm on their stance that the player is not for sale.

Diaz may yet stay at Anfield this summer it would seem – although that’s not to say the club aren’t seeking a potential upgrade in the attacking ranks…

Liverpool's search for a new forward

The Reds’ interest in Alexander Isak remains a hot topic on Merseyside, albeit with the fact remaining that it would take a colossal bid to prise the Swede from St James’ Park, not least with Newcastle United reportedly slapping down a £200m price tag.

Alternative centre-forward options thus need to be considered, with journalist Fabrizio Romano – speaking on his YouTube channel – reporting that Liverpool are actually “discussing” a move for Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike.

The suggestion is that Slot and co will step up their interest in the £85m marksman if and when Nunez’s expected exit is sealed, with Romano stating:

Transfer Focus

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

“Liverpool are working on this deal, they are discussing the possibility of adding Hugo Ekitike to their squad. The idea of Liverpool is to have one more striker, they are waiting to understand what happens with Darwin Nunez with conversations ongoing with Napoli.

“Liverpool can add a new striker, so Hugo Ekitike remains a name on the list for the club.”

Why Ekitike could be an upgrade on Diaz

The beauty of Diaz in Slot’s tenure thus far has been his surprising versatility, with the orthodox left-winger having fashioned a new role for himself as a false nine or centre-forward, amid Nunez’s dismal return of just seven goals across all fronts in 2024/25.

That said, Ekitike also boasts that same flexibility to feature off the left or in a central role, with the promising Frenchman having even eclipsed Diaz’s return of 25 goal involvements last term.

Indeed, the 23-year-old – who was previously on the books at Paris Saint-Germain – racked up a mammoth haul of 34 goals and assists in just 48 games in Germany last time out, having surpassed his Liverpool counterpart in both of those metrics.

Michael Olise

12

18

30

Mason Greenwood

21

6

27

Erling Haaland

22

3

25

Bradley Barcola

14

11

25

Cole Palmer

15

9

24

Yamine Lamal

9

15

24

Hugo Ekitike

15

8

23

Florian Wirtz

10

13

23

On the league front, in particular, it was Ekitike who also enjoyed the greater success with 15 goals and eight assists in the Bundesliga, with Diaz, by contrast, contributing ‘just’ 13 goals and seven assists in the Premier League.

Away from just that end product, the Frankfurt star also came out on top with regard to big chances created (12 vs eight), as well as for successful dribbles completed (1.6 vs 1.5), as per Sofascore, thus showcasing the full array of his talents.

Lauded as a “world-class” figure by talent scout Jacek Kulig, the relative youngster has also been described as looking like the “perfect centre-forward” by TNT pundit Owen Hargreaves – all while still just 23.

While Liverpool certainly don’t need to weaken their ranks by selling Diaz, providing increased competition in the forward line would be a mouthwatering prospect, not least if the Reds would actually be getting an upgrade in the process.

The next Henderson: Liverpool now closing in on a "monster" new signing

Liverpool are running rampant in the transfer market this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 2, 2025

Even though Arsenal are blessed with an abundance of talented players, it’s not hard to pinpoint their most important: Bukayo Saka.

The Hale End icon has become a talisman for the club and a constant source of goals and assists from the right-hand side, racking up a sensational haul of 26 goal involvements in 37 games this season.

Yet, as unbelievably talented as the Englishman is, he cannot drag the Gunners to glory on his own, as even Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah has an incredible supporting cast, including the likes of Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz and most crucially, this season, Cody Gakpo.

So, fans should be excited about recent reports linking Arsenal to an attacker who’s been compared to Saka and the Flying Dutchman.

Arsenal's winger search

With their attack letting them down on several occasions this season, it’s not been a surprise to see Arsenal linked with a host of talented wingers this summer, such as Karou Mitoma and Rodrygo.

Transfer Focus

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

The former could be available for around £80m and was able to rack up a tally of 15 goal involvements in 41 games this season, while the latter might cost as much as £77m but was even more effective, racking up a haul of 14 goals and 11 assists in 52 games.

Yet, there is another name that has entered the frame, a player who has Premier League experience and has been compared to Saka and Gakpo: Noni Madueke.

According to a recent report from the Telegraph, Arsenal are now one of several teams in the picture to sign the former Spurs academy star and Chelsea forward this summer.

The report claims that while the Blues do not want to sell the Englishman, there is a distinct possibility that he would be let go for the right price.

While that price is not mentioned in the story, reports from earlier this month claimed that a fee in the region of €60m, which is about £51m, could do the trick.

It might not be a transfer that is immediately popular with Arsenal fans, but Madueke has shown glimpses of quality in the Premier League, and the fact he’s been compared to Saka and Gakpo is undoubtedly intriguing.

How Madueke compares to Saka & Gakpo

So then, before going over some of the other reasons why Arsenal might want to sign Madueke this summer, it’s important to examine these comparisons and where they stem from.

Well, they both stem from FBref, which looks at players in similar positions in the Premier League this season before making a list of the ten most comparable for each.

According to this list, Gakpo was the seventh most similar attacking midfielder or winger to Chelsea this season, while Saka was the tenth most similar.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.61

0.71

Shots

3.54

3.44

Passing Accuracy

77.4%

75.5%

Passes into the Final Third

0.71

0.78

Tackles Won

0.80

0.78

Clearances

0.49

0.42

Successful Take-On %

44.1%

45.6%

Aerial Duels Won

0.49

0.52

Now, the best way to understand how these conclusions were reached is by looking at some of the underlying numbers in which the players rank closely, and in the case of the Gunners’ talisman, that includes things like non-penalty expected goals plus assist, passing accuracy, passes into the final third, clearances, tackles won and more, all per 90.

In the case of the Eindhoven-born maestro, similar metrics include expected assists, live passes, carries, ball recoveries, goal-creating actions, and more, all per 90.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.61

0.53

Passing Accuracy

77.4%

75.7%

Expected Assists

0.14

0.18

Crosses into the Penalty Area

0.35

0.37

Live Passes

29.2

28.7

Goal-Creating Actions

0.35

0.37

Carries

28.4

28.1

Ball Recoveries

3.72

3.58

However, it’s not just the comparisons to two of the best wingers in the league that should excite fans, as the “unbelievable” dynamo, as dubbed by former manager Mauricio Pochettino, has also been a relatively reliable source of goals and assists for the West Londoners.

For example, in 42 appearances this season, totalling 2513 minutes, the 23-year-old “mentality monster,” as dubbed by personal coach Saul Isaksson-Hurst, scored 11 goals and provided five assists, which comes out to a goal involvement on average every 2.62 games, or every 157.06 minutes.

In comparison, Gabriel Martinelli racked up as many goal involvements in 51 appearances, totalling 3564 minutes, which comes out to a significantly worse average of a goal involvement every 3.18 games, or every 222.75 minutes.

Ultimately, while the price might be a little high, Madueke has the raw ability to make a difference for Arsenal, and the fact he’s been compared to players like Saka and Gakpo this season suggests as much.

Therefore, if the fee can be reduced somewhat, then this looks like a transfer worth chasing.

Big Martinelli upgrade: Arsenal start talks to sign "magnificent" £85m star

The incredible winger would add so much dynamism to Arsenal’s attack.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 20, 2025

Liverpool’s defence played a huge role in their ability to claim the Premier League title this season, offering Arne Slot a strong foundation to build his side off.

The Reds conceded just 41 times in their 38 outings, with only runners-up Arsenal conceding fewer goals, with their impressive tally of 34, highlighting how impressive Slot’s backline were in 2024/25.

They also kept 14 clean sheets – the most of any side in the division – with the ability to keep the ball out of the net playing a massive role in their success within England’s top flight.

Such a department has been boosted massively over the past few months, after club captain Virgil van Dijk signed a new two-year deal at Anfield, extending his stint on Merseyside to just under a decade.

Despite the Dutchman signing a new deal, the hierarchy have wasted no time in targeting other players in such an area to help the side in their quest to retain their title.

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

With Jeremie Frimpong already agreeing a move to join Liverpool this summer, the club have wasted no time in landing a replacement for the outgoing Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Milos Kerkez is another name who looks set to make the switch to Merseyside this summer, with the Hungarian in advanced talks over a switch to Anfield – potentially costing a fee in the region of £45m.

The pair could be joined by another defensive reinforcement, in the form of Rennes centre-back Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, according to Moroccan outlet Le360 Sport.

They claim that the Reds have already made a concrete offer to sign the 19-year-old, who spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Ligue 2 outfit Amiens.

It also states that Newcastle are also interested in the teenage star, with Slot’s men the only side to present a bid for his signature, but doesn’t reveal how much the proposal is for the youngster.

Why Liverpool’s latest target would be Slot’s own Huijsen

Over the last couple of months, Liverpool have been keeping a close eye on the progress of Spanish centre-back Dean Huijsen after his impressive stint at Bournemouth this season.

The 20-year-old featured in 32 league games for the Cherries in the Premier League, scoring on three occasions, even winning their Player of the Year award.

Such form led to the Reds’ hierarchy meeting with the defender’s representatives a couple of weeks ago, but he rejected a stay in England to return to Spain in favour of a £50m move to Real Madrid.

Undoubtedly, his decision to move to the LaLiga outfit has been a blow for Slot’s side, but they could land their own version of Huijsen this summer, in the form of current target Ait Boudlal.

The Moroccan could follow suit of the Spaniard, who achieved his move to the Premier League after spending a stint on loan at Roma from Juventus, plying his trade for another team in Italy before getting his chance to shine.

The Rennes ace has done the same this campaign in France, moving to Amiens and gaining valuable minutes to aid his progression at the top end of the professional game.

Should he move to Liverpool this summer, Ait Boudlal would have the potential to emulate Huijsen’s levels in the Premier League, offering needed depth to Slot at the heart of the defence.

Games played

9

Goals & assists

1

Pass accuracy

83%

Dribble success

60%

Tackles won

47%

Aerials won

2.3

Total duels won

4.9

His stats this season highlight the talent he possesses, having the ability to improve massively under his guidance in the years ahead, especially considering his tender age.

Ait Boudlal, who’s been labelled “complete” by talent scout Antonio Mango, has already been a regular at multiple levels of the internal setup within his country – having a huge part to play in their future success at competitions such as AFCON.

It would certainly be a signing for the future, but the signs are there for the teenager to follow suit of Huijsen and make a sensational switch to England from Rennes this summer.

It’s unclear how much a deal would set the hierarchy back in the coming months, but if he manages to get anywhere close to the levels produced by the Spaniard, it would be a bargain and one that could hand the club a huge talent in their quest for title glory.

Their own Mbappe: Liverpool make £150m star their dream target after Wirtz

Liverpool could be about to make another huge move for a player during this summer’s transfer window.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 4, 2025

Liverpool are now leading the race to complete the signing of a “great” player in the summer transfer window, according to a new update from Fabrizio Romano.

Liverpool eyeing signings on either flank

Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson have been a legendary full-back pairing for the Reds over the past seven or eight years, but there is a changing of the guard at Anfield this summer.

Sadly, Alexander-Arnold has opted to leave Liverpool in order to almost certainly join Real Madrid, which unsurprisingly hasn’t gone down well with many supporters, while Robertson isn’t the force he once was at left-back – no surprise, considering he is now 31 and has years of relentless running behind him.

Jeremie Frimpong is set to arrive from Bayer Leverkusen, potentially coming in as a right-back, but he is also more than capable of taking up a more attacking right-sided role. It remains to be seen how Arne Slot will use him, and if Conor Bradley will be first-choice right-back moving forward.

Meanwhile, Milos Kerkez has emerged as the strongest option at left-back, following an excellent season with Bournemouth, although Fulham’s Antonee Robinson and Ajax teenager Jorrel Hato have also been mentioned as options. Manchester City have reportedly been looking to hijack a move for Kerkez, though, being seen as “genuine rivals” for his signature.

Liverpool in pole position to sign Kerkez after talks

Taking to X on Sunday, Romano said that Liverpool are in pole position to sign Kerkez from Bournemouth this summer, with talks continuing to head in the right direction:

Kerkez really does feel like the natural fit to come in and be Liverpool’s new first-choice left-back, ticking so many boxes, in terms of what Slot will be looking for.

The 21-year-old Hungary international is strong at both ends of the pitch, bagging seven goal contributions (two goals and five assists) in the Premier League this season, as well as averaging 2.6 clearances and 1.4 tackles per game.

Appearances

37

Starts

37

Minutes played

3,251

Goals

2

Assists

5

Clearances per game

2.6

Tackles per game

1.4

Interceptions per game

1.2

Key passes per game

0.9

In fact, Kerkez’s performances haven’t been lost on Slot, who has said he has enjoyed a “great season”, while football talent scout Jacek Kulig called him “amazing” after Bournemouth beat Manchester City earlier in the season.

At this point, it could be a surprise if the Cherries star didn’t join Liverpool, in a summer transfer window that is already threatening to be legendary.

Liverpool are brewing their own version of Wirtz in "fearless" academy star

Liverpool could do with an academy sensation breaking into Arne Slot’s senior squad.

ByAngus Sinclair May 24, 2025

If the Reds manage to sign Kerkez, Frimpong, Florian Wirtz and a top-quality striker, it will be significant business that may only make them far stronger heading into next season.

Both Birmingham City and Wrexham will be attempting to unsettle the Championship after promotion, knowing full well that they have immense pulling power as teams on the rise.

After all, Chris Davies’ runaway League One champions didn’t just win Jay Stansfield by chance, with St. Andrew’s a glamorous location to now ply your trade courtesy of Tom Wagner’s mega millions boosting the once downtrodden giants.

Therefore, if they were able to tempt their top scorer down to the third tier, it’s amazing to contemplate what other earth-shattering signings they could now get in through the door.

The Blues are certainly dominating a lot of EFL conversation this summer with who they’re being linked with, with this dream XI below surely the best plausible lineup Davies could call upon when the excitement of Championship action gets underway.

1 GK – Mark Travers

Firstly, Birmingham might well believe they need to improve in-between the sticks when adjusting back up to the second tier.

Their usual number one goalkeeper Ryan Allsop only shipped 26 goals in league action last season, but if they were able to land Mark Travers – following links to the Bournemouth man – he would surely get the first-team nod over the recent promotion winner.

After all, Travers has significant experience in the Championship on his side with 76 career games at the level under his belt. To add to that, he has also kept a respectable 26 clean sheets along the way.

2 RB – Ethan Laird

Whilst there could be some change in goal, Ethan Laird will be hopeful that his secure first-team spot at right-back remains set in stone for the jump up.

The ex-Manchester United full-back was as much of an attacking menace for the Blues last season as he was a defensive warrior, as seen in his impressive five goals and four assists in league action, on top of also winning a high 6.4 duels on average per contest.

3 CB – Ben Davies

The second signing Birmingham could make is to bring loan hero Ben Davies back permanently after he was a defensive colossus all of last campaign, away from parent employers Rangers.

Davies would strike up a fine partnership with Christoph Klarer – as seen in the pair tallying up a mammoth 38 clean sheets between them – with the Blues boss hopeful that the experienced 29-year-old can look as assured in the league above if he remains put.

4 CB – Christoph Klarer

The aforementioned Klarer would love to line up alongside his ex-Preston North End teammate once more, having been near faultless next to the 6-foot-1 enforcer at the top end of League One.

The dominant Austrian is also very deserving of his plaudits, considering he managed to register seven big chances created playing out from the back, away from just merely putting his equally towering frame to good use.

5 LB – Alex Cochrane

Making up the final component of the imposing back four is former Hearts man Alex Cochrane.

Much like his partner in crime down the right, Cochrane has been able to show off his ability to create chances galore throughout the League One season, culminating in him creating a sizeable nine big chances from 42 overall clashes.

To cap off his sterling individual campaign, the 25-year-old also bagged this beauty against Stevenage in April.

6 CM – Tomoki Iwata

Heading into the midfield areas and Tomoki Iwata will be keen to prove himself as a Championship-ready talent after some stylish showings in the third tier.

Iwata would go on to be an absolute steal from Celtic when joining for around £the £800k mark, considering the Japanese midfielder would round off his first-ever EFL adventure with eight goals and two assists next to his name.

7 CM – Kanya Fuijmoto

Iwata might well be joined by a new teammate centrally, however, as Birmingham continue to be linked with a switch for Gil Vicente ace Kanya Fujimoto.

The newly promoted side must be holding out hope that Fujimoto can be Iwata 2.0 on his potential St. Andrew’s arrival, with the 28-year-old’s compatriot proving himself to be as slick as the Blues number 24 playing out in Portugal.

Whilst he is comfortable slotting in as a number ten – as seen in his five goals and five assists in league action last season – Fujimoto can also line up as a traditional central midfield option, meaning he could partner Iwata very soon in England.

8 RM – Kwame Poku

Birmingham won’t be content with just three new purchases ahead of Championship football triumphantly returning with a fourth potentially in the offing with Kwame Poku, amid reports that an offer has been made to the Peterborough star.

It’s been a drawn-out saga this summer already involving Poku and Davies’ side, but if Birmingham are finally successful in landing the tricky Ghanaian’s services over a crazy 25 other suitors, he would slot into the team effortlessly down the right wing.

24/25

31

12

11

23/24

47

12

8

22/23

45

5

9

21/22

23

0

2

Posh manager Darren Ferguson would hail Poku as “unplayable” just this season gone, and when taking his consistent brilliance above, it’s clear to see why, with a ridiculous 23 goal contributions notched up across a memorable 2024/25.

Surely, he’s now ready for the challenge of affirming himself as an EFL superstar even more in the West Midlands.

9 CAM – Jay Stansfield

Stansfield is arguably another big name when it comes to the EFL, with Birmingham fans head over heels for the former Fulham forward.

He would end his own distinguished 2024/25 campaign by firing home 19 league strikes, meaning he could absolutely terrorise Championship defences when partnered with Poku.

10 LM – Keshi Anderson

Whilst the likes of Stansfield stole most of the limelight during Birmingham’s smooth title success, Keshi Anderson also regularly put in fine performances as a more seasoned head of the group.

In all competitions, the pacey left winger would tally up a hefty nine goals and eight assists, with Davies confident now that the experienced attacker can come good in the second tier, having played here previously and somewhat struggled with ex-employers Blackpool.

Worryingly, every team that seals promotion up to the Premier League immediately knows they’ll be up against it trying to stay afloat in its choppy waters. That will be the main concern now for Burnley.

Ipswich Town, Leicester City and Southampton are going to fall back down to the Championship after one fleeting campaign in the tough division, with the Clarets hopeful, yet definitely apprehensive that they can buck this dismal trend when they reenter the top league shortly.

Scott Parker’s attempts to solidify the Clarets as a top-flight worthy side once more will be made a lot harder if Josh Brownhill were to depart Turf Moor, with the experienced midfielder’s future still up in the air heading into the hectic summer transfer window.

Brownhill's future at Burnley

Already, the Clarets are having to stomach the prospect of CJ Egan-Riley leaving the club for pastures new with RC Strasbourg.

Unfortunately, Brownhill could be next for the exit door if rumours are to be believed, with Turkish sides Trabzonspor and Besiktas now eyeing up the soon-to-be out-of-contract attacking gem, away from earlier interest from the likes of Everton and West Ham United.

Losing Egan-Riley is already a damaging body blow for Parker’s newly promoted outfit, but adding Brownhill into the mix would be nothing short of disastrous, considering the 29-year-old would hammer 18 goals in league action last season to help seal automatic promotion.

Moreover, the Manchester-born star – who is also reportedly on the radar of Wolverhampton Wanderers – possesses experience of the Premier League to further boost the Clarets, but there’s a worry he could now up and leave before top-flight football officially returns to Turf Moor.

Losing him for nothing would also be very painful for the Lancashire side, considering his estimated worth currently stands at around the £9.5m range according to Football Transfers.

But, there is a midfield teammate of Brownhill’s who actually now boasts a heftier worth than the stand-out 29-year-old after an impressive debut season under Parker’s wing.

The Burnley star who is now worth more than Brownhill

In their bid to immediately return to the promised land of the Premier League, Burnley surprisingly didn’t splash obscene masses of cash.

Indeed, £15.4m was the most spent on a single player in the form of Mike Tresor. Whilst Tresor would unfortunately fade into the background, another of their summer purchases would shine as ex-Manchester United youngster Hannibal Mejbri ended up relocating to the Clarets for a modest £5.4m fee.

He wouldn’t be an immediate success in his new location as he got up to speed, but Hannibal’s importance to the cause would be seen when crucial promotion games came thick and fast.

Indeed, his well-taken strike got the ball rolling for Parker’s nervy Clarets against Norwich City, while he also registered two assists when Burnley flawlessly won their last five league contests to finish inside the top two.

Lauded as an “absolute baller” during his time at Man United by scout Antonio Mango, he’s now finally living up to that immense potential.

Games played

39

Goals scored

1

Assists

5

Value when joining

£5.4m

Value now

£9.7m

Value increase

£4.3m

The Tunisian hasn’t blown anyone away with constant vibrant displays, but it’s clear the 22-year-old could only get better with time at Turf Moor, with this promise seen in his transfer value already increasing to a high £10m just a season into his Burnley move.

This is a small jump up from 18-goal hero Brownhill’s own valuation, with Parker praying that both Hannibal and the more seasoned head of the 29-year-old can link up with each other in the top-flight.

If that doesn’t happen, however, the ex-Fulham boss will know Hannibal will be raring to prove himself in the elite division, having already picked up the pieces with the Clarets after his Old Trafford departure.

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Liverpool’s full-backs have been some of the major talking points ahead of the summer transfer window, with Arne Slot needing to add to his squad to sustain their recent success.

Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to depart Anfield this summer after announcing he won’t be extending his current contract with the club, looking set to move to Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Andy Robertson has been the Reds’ main left-back over the last few years, but at the age of 31, he’s entering the back end of his professional career, with reinforcements needed in such an area.

Kostas Tsimikas is Slot’s backup to the Scotsman, but both could yet depart the club this summer, opening the door to added investment from the hierarchy to improve the department.

Multiple names have already been tipped to strengthen their defensive unit, with various names in the mix ahead of the opening of the summer transfer window.

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Centre-back Dean Huijsen is a player who has been on Liverpool’s radar over the last couple of months, even holding talks with the defender’s representatives over a move to Merseyside.

However, it appears as though they’ve fallen behind in the race for the Spaniard’s signature, with Chelsea edging ahead by making a proposal to land his services ahead of 2025/26.

He’s not the only player who’s appeared on their shortlist as of late, with Wolves left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri the latest name to emerge as an option for Slot’s side, according to The Telegraph.

The report claims that the 23-year-old is admired by the Reds, but that Vitor Pereira’s side are wanting to hand him a new contract to prevent any interest in his services.

However, if they are unable to come to terms over a new deal, they would have to sell the Algerian international, but would demand a fee in the region of £50m to part ways with the talented ace.

Why Liverpool’s £50m target would be the dream Kerkez alternative

Bournemouth star Milos Kerkez is a player who’s been at the top of Liverpool’s shopping list over the last few months, as Slot looks to add depth to the left-back department.

The Hungarian has been a star in the Cherries’ unlikely push for European football, starting every single game throughout the 2024/25 Premier League season – the most of any player in the squad.

After such consistent showings, Andoni Iraola’s side have placed a £40m price tag on the youngster to part ways with him during the off-season.

He could be an excellent option and one that could nail down the role for many years to come, but the club may be better off targeting a move for another star instead.

When comparing Kerkez’s stats to those of Ait-Nouri’s, the Wolves star has managed to outperform him in numerous key areas – highlighting what a superb addition he would be for the Reds.

The Algerian, who’s been labelled “incredible” by former boss Gary O’Neil, has registered more combined goals and assists this campaign, whilst also notching more key passes – showcasing the attacking threat he carries.

He’s also completed more take-ons per 90, whilst also completing more of the passes he’s attempted, aiding players in forward areas to improve their own tallies.

Games played

34

35

Goals & assists

11

7

Pass accuracy

84%

75%

Key passes completed

1.2

0.9

Tackles won

1.6

0.7

Blocks made

1.3

1

Take-ons completed

1.8

0.5

Aerials won

42%

34%

However, Ait-Nouri has been just as impressive, winning more tackles and making more blocks per 90, handing Slot the added defensive solidity to win the division for a second successive year next season.

Whilst Kerkez will remain many supporters’ number one option for this summer, it’s evident that the Wolves star has all the qualities to thrive in the left-back role on Merseyside.

He could be the answer to their long-term ambitions at the back, potentially allowing the fans to forget about the Hungarian and take the side to the next level in the process.

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Chelsea are now racing to sign an “incredible” forward from one of their bitter Premier League rivals, who are now willing to cash-in this summer, according to a report.

Blues set sights on new forward

With Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku failing to do the business in front of goal, the Blues have now set their sights on signing a new striker in the summer transfer window, and they have a number of top-level targets in mind.

Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy, who has been extremely impressive in the Champions League this season, is one of the latest strikers to be targeted, with the 29-year-old joining the likes of Liam Delap and Viktor Gyokeres on the shortlist.

Not only are the west Londoners looking to bring in an out-and-out striker, but there have also been suggestions they could look to bolster their wide options, with fellow Dortmund star Jamie Gittens well-liked, alongside Lyon playmaker Rayan Cherki.

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However, according to a report from Caught Offside, there may be an option from much closer to home, with Chelsea now keen on signing winger Mohammed Kudus, who currently plays for bitter rivals West Ham United.

The Blues are not alone in their pursuit of Kudus, however, with Arsenal and Liverpool also in the race, alongside Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, who have reportedly already submitted a £87m bid for the Ghanaian.

Enzo Maresca’s side are yet to make any moves to sign the forward, but there are some indications they could be successful if they choose to formalise their interest, as West Ham are now willing to cash-in to fund their own summer transfer business.

"Incredible" Kudus impressing at West Ham

The 24-year-old’s debut campaign at the London Stadium last season certainly caught the eye, picking up 14 goals and nine assists in 45 appearances in all competitions, establishing himself as a key player under former manager David Moyes.

In light of his impressive performances, the Ghana international received high praise from journalist Raj Chohan, who believes the right-winger would be able to make the step-up to a top club.

The Accra-born attacker has been less impressive this season, failing to score and picking up just one assist in his last 15 Premier League games, but it is difficult to stand out in a very poor West Ham side, who sit in 17th place.

Kudus, who ranks in the top 2% of all wingers for successful take-ons per 90 over the past year, as per FBref, could be an exciting signing for Chelsea, but given his goal and assist return this season, it would be unwise to match Al-Nassr’s £87m offer.