Tottenham Hotspur’s final signing of the summer transfer window, striker Randal Kolo Muani on loan from PSG, is poised to make his imminent Premier League debut against West Ham on Saturday.
The Frenchman’s versatility will be invaluable for Thomas Frank, with Kolo Muani able to play on both the right and left-hand side, though it appears he’ll most likely be used as an alternative to centre-forwards Richarlison and Dominic Solanke.
Mohammed Kudus
£55 million
Kota Takai
£5 million
Mathys Tel
£30 million
Joao Palhinha
Loan
Kevin Danso
£21 million
Xavi Simons
£52 million
Randal Kolo Muani
Loan
The latter didn’t play in Spurs’ 1-0 defeat against Bournemouth prior to the international break due to a niggling ankle problem, and while Frank suggested that Solanke could be back this weekend, it is definitely wise to have another option up top considering Richarlison’s fitness issues last season.
Kolo Muani has played the vast majority of his 269 total senior appearances as a striker, and there is reason for supporters to be excited by his arrival.
During his best-ever campaign to date in 2022/2023, the 26-year-old racked up an impressive 23 goals and 17 assists in all competitions for Eintracht Frankfurt, and this stellar form earned him a £76.4 million move to Ligue 1 heavyweights PSG.
While it hasn’t worked out for him in the French capital, Kolo Muani’s head-turning loan move to Juventus last term, where he managed 10 goals and three assists in 22 outings, showcases a player of serious attacking quality.
On the international stage, Kolo Muani has always maintained the faith of Didier Deschamps, even amidst his PSG exile, with the forward bagging semi-final goals against Morocco at the 2022 World Cup and Spain in Euro 2024.
The former Nantes sensation has also been a long-time target for the Lilywhites. Tottenham attempted to agree a deal for Kolo Muani in January before his switch to Juve, and ex-Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou was personally pushing for him in the winter, according to club insider Paul O’Keefe.
Now, the Spurs recruitment team have got their man, but unfortunately for Frank, there is no option to buy Kolo Muani at the end of his loan spell if he manages to pull up trees in north London.
This is seen as quite an ‘un-Spurs like’ condition of the Kolo Muani deal, and pundit John Wenham has fired a warning to Tottenham over agreeing to a straight loan.
Tottenham sent Randal Kolo Muani warning as "frustrating" claim made
Speaking to Tottenham News, Wenham says thatTottenham are taking a “risk” by just signing Kolo Muani on a dry temporary deal, calling it a “frustrating” development and explaining that other sides could outbid them next year.
While there is an argument that Tottenham face not being able to hold on to Kolo Muani, the fact he’s arrived at N17 for essentially zero cost for the entire season is still a big boost for Frank.
Spurs need strength in depth if they’re to finish in the top four and contend for major trophies, and Kolo Muani is exactly the calibre of player to help them do this.
The summer transfer window has been a turbulent one for Newcastle United.
Having worked tirelessly to strengthen multiple areas of the squad, the Magpies remain under pressure to solve their most glaring issue: the centre-forward position.
After a protracted saga with Alexander Isak, Newcastle have found themselves scrambling for solutions.
The opening two fixtures highlighted the depth of this crisis. Despite playing well against Aston Villa and Liverpool, Newcastle lacked a clinical edge.
The situation was made worse when makeshift striker Anthony Gordon was sent off against the Reds, leaving 22-year-old William Osula as the only recognised forward.
For a club intent on challenging at the top end of the Premier League, such frailty up front was unsustainable. That urgency forced Newcastle’s hand.
Out of nowhere, a £69m deal was struck with Stuttgart for Nick Woltemade, the towering 23-year-old who had impressed in the Bundesliga and at the European U21 Championships.
Bayern Munich had bids rejected for the forward earlier in the summer, but conversations with Eddie Howe convinced him that his future lay on Tyneside.
Now in a race against time to complete his medical and join the squad for Saturday’s clash with Leeds, Woltemade has the potential to be transformative.
Yet Newcastle’s ambitions do not stop with the German international.
Reports in Italy suggest the club tested the waters for one of Europe’s most decorated strikers – though the answer was swift and emphatic.
Newcastle make move for top-level striker
According to Calcio Mercato, Newcastle made an audacious approach to the camp of Lautaro Martínez, Inter Milan’s talismanic striker.
Inter Milan'sLautaroMartinez applauds their fans
The response, however, was one of firm rejection. Alejandro Camaño, the Argentine’s agent, did not return the Magpies’ call – a clear indication that Martínez’s focus remains solely on the Nerazzurri.
The refusal is hardly surprising.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Martínez is not only Inter’s captain but also he is a player adored by supporters and widely considered indispensable.
Podcaster Angelo Valdes recently described him as “the best No. 9 in the world,” a sentiment shared by many who have watched his rise since arriving in Serie A.
The timing of Newcastle’s approach is also telling.
Inter are still recovering from a bruising campaign in which they lost the Serie A title to Antonio Conte’s Napoli on the final day and fell to a humbling 5-0 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final.
Letting go of their most consistent goal threat was never a realistic proposition, particularly given his contract security and market value of around €95 (£90m) million.
Strong interest remains in Wolves’ Jørgen Strand Larsen and Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, though both clubs have shut the door firmly this summer.
In that context, the dream of pairing Woltemade with Martínez might have seemed appealing – but in reality, it was always a step too far.
Why Woltemade would have thrived with Lautaro
While the Argentine international may be out of reach, Newcastle’s recruitment of Woltemade still provides intriguing possibilities.
Standing at 1.98m, the German forward offers a physical presence that contrasts with Martínez’s dynamism and low centre of gravity.
Both, however, are effective in their own right, and a comparison of their output last season reveals the distinct qualities they could bring to a top-level side.
Matches Played
31
28
Goals
12
12
Assists
3
2
Progressive Carries
34
31
Progressive Passes
68
62
Martínez’s pedigree is undisputed. At 28, he boasts 70 international caps for Argentina, with a World Cup winner’s medal from Qatar 2022.
Across 336 appearances for Inter Milan, he has delivered 154 goals and 51 assists – a record that speaks volumes about his consistency.
Statistically, Martínez excels in areas beyond pure goalscoring.
Lautaro-Martinez
He averaged 2.39 progressive passes per 90 and 2.70 shot-creating actions, while his defensive contribution – 1.05 tackles per 90 – illustrates his work rate out of possession.
He is not the archetypal penalty-box poacher but a complete forward capable of linking play and setting the tone with his pressing. By contrast, Woltemade is still carving out his identity.
His 12 goals in 28 Bundesliga appearances for Stuttgart last season marked a breakthrough, and his performances at the U21 European Championships confirmed him as one of Germany’s most promising attacking talents.
His statistical profile highlights his potential versatility: 1.72 progressive carries per 90, 2.89 progressive passes, and an eye-catching 4.38 shot-creating actions.
His 50% shot-on-target rate was also superior to Martínez’s, suggesting efficiency when chances came his way. The differences extend to physicality and style.
Where Martínez relies on sharp movement and explosive bursts in the box, Woltemade thrives on aerial duels, hold-up play, and the ability to bring others into the game.
At nearly two metres tall, he offers a target-man option that Newcastle have lacked, particularly useful when matches become attritional.
His weakness, however, lies in defensive contribution – registering just 0.56 tackles per 90 compared to Martínez’s 1.05.
For Howe, this presents both challenges and opportunities.
Integrating a young striker into the Premier League is no easy task, but Woltemade’s profile complements Newcastle’s existing attacking talent.
Newcastle duo Harvey Barnes and Jacob Murphy
Should Isak depart – as appears inevitable – a partnership between Woltemade and another dynamic forward could provide the balance required to keep Newcastle competitive domestically and in Europe.
What this episode ultimately reveals is Newcastle’s growing ambition. Contacting the representative of one of the world’s premier strikers may have ended in rejection, but it signals intent.
Coupled with the acquisition of Woltemade, alongside earlier arrivals such as Jacob Ramsey, Malick Thiaw, Aaron Ramsdale, and Anthony Elanga, the Magpies are determined to push forward despite setbacks.
Bruno will love him: Newcastle open talks to sign "£100m-plus footballer"
Newcastle could make an ambitious late move, much to the benefit of Bruno Guimaraes.
Sunderland are not messing around with their plans to build a squad that is capable of avoiding an instant relegation from the Premier League next season.
The Black Cats have already signed Enzo Le Fee on a permanent deal from AS Roma, Habib Diarra in a club-record £30m move from Strasbourg, and Noah Sadiki from Royale Union Saint-Gilloise to bolster their ranks.
They are not done there, though, as the club are also reportedly in talks to secure a deal for Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, who played with Diarra in Ligue 1 last season.
At the other end of the pitch, Sunderland are also looking to bring in a new number nine to fire them to safety, as they go in search of their next Asamoah Gyan, Steven Fletcher, or Jermaine Defoe.
Sunderland eyeing deal for new striker
According to Foot Mercato, Sunderland are one of the teams interested in a deal to sign Lyon centre-forward Georges Mikautadze, following his team’s expulsion from Ligue 1.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The report, however, claims that the Georgia international is not the club’s main option in that position, as the Black Cats have made Nantes striker Matthis Abline their priority target.
It states that Mikautadze is their ‘plan B’ option in the event that they fail to get a deal over the line for Abline, who is the player they are currently pursuing to bolster their attacking ranks.
Nantes' Matthis Abline shoots against Brest.
The outlet adds that Sunderland have already made an offer of £17m to sign the 22-year-old forward, but it remains to be seen exactly how much will be needed to snap him up.
If the Black Cats can do land their priority target and bring Abline to the Stadium of Light, Regis Le Bris could have his own version of Asamoah Gyan.
Why Abline could be a Gyan repeat for Sunderland
Back in the summer of 2010, Sunderland smashed their transfer record to sign Gyan from Ligue 1 side Rennes for a reported fee of £13m, after he had plundered 13 goals in 29 matches in the French top-flight the previous season.
The Ghana international scored ten goals in 31 matches in the Premier League in his only full year at the club to fire them to safety, and Abline could enjoy similar success.
If Sunderland can bring the France U21 international to the club, he could provide Le Bris with a big goal threat in the top-flight, having proven his quality in the French top-flight last term.
Talent scout Jacek Kulig claimed that the 22-year-old is “making waves in Ligue 1”, and that praise is backed up by his impressive statistics in the division for Nantes.
xG
8.10
Top 23%
Goals
9
Top 23%
Non-penalty xG
7.31
Top 23%
Non-penalty goals
8
N/A
Shots on target
27
Top 14%
xA
3.37
Top 9%
Assists
2
Top 33%
As you can see in the table above, Abline ranked highly among forwards in the division with his contributions at the top end of the pitch, as he outperformed his xG and created high-quality chances for his teammates at an impressive rate.
One of his nine Ligue 1 goals was also a sensational solo goal against Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain, in which he beat Willian Pacho all ends up.
This shows the kind of quality that the £17m forward can produce against the very best in Europe, which also suggests that he has what it takes to deliver in the Premier League against high-quality teams.
Therefore, Abline has the potential to be Gyan 2.0 for Sunderland as another expensive centre-forward recruit from Ligue 1 who has the potential to be a brilliant goal threat for the Black Cats.
Sunderland concern over "excellent" star has Southampton considering move
The Saints are looking to bounce back after relegation…
Chelsea suffered a disappointing defeat in their second group match of the Club World Cup, going down 3-1 against Brazilian side Flamengo.
Enzo Maresca had led the Blues to an opening victory against LAFC, but the loss now means he will need to secure all three points against ES Tunis to qualify for the knockout round.
Given how big the prize fund is, going as far as possible is certainly within the club’s best interests.
The Stamford Bridge side have already signed Liam Delap from Ipswich Town for a fee of £30m, while deals for Estevao, Dario Essugo, Mamadou Sarr, and Kendry Paez have also gone through so far this summer.
Maresca won’t be stopping there, that much is certain. With a move for Hugo Ekitike high on the priority list, it is clear the Blues want to sign another centre-forward this summer.
They have also been linked with moves to sign Tyler Dibling, Murillo, and Mohamed Kudus in recent weeks as Maresca prepares to take Chelsea into the Champions League.
With so many potential transfer links, the manager will surely be looking to offload a player or two. Not only to free up space in the first-team squad, but also to balance the books.
Several names have been touted as departing the club, but could Noni Madueke be the most high-profile sale this summer?
What the future holds for Noni Madueke at Chelsea
Last season saw Madueke come of age at Chelsea. Across 43 appearances in all competitions, the English winger scored 11 goals and provided five assists for the Blues.
He helped them win the Conference League in the process, and this campaign surely gave him plenty of confidence heading into the Club World Cup.
According to The Telegraph, Arsenal are seemingly keen on making a move to sign the former PSV Eindhoven starlet this summer in a bid to improve their attacking options.
With Maresca continuing his heavy recruitment drive at Stamford Bridge, Madueke’s space in the starting XI is certainly not guaranteed heading into the 2024/25 campaign.
The report goes on to state that the winger is not up for sale, but should things change in the coming weeks, he could be obtainable in the transfer window.
Metric
Premier League
Conference League
Goals
7
3
Assists
3
1
Big chances created
6
0
Successful dribbles per game
1.4
1.6
Key passes per game
1.1
1
He would be a fine signing for any club in the top flight, as evidenced by his statistics when compared to peers across Europe’s top five leagues.
Not only did he rank in the top 1% for progressive carries (6.82) per 90, but the winger also ranked in the top 4% for touches in the opposition penalty area (8.15) per 90 and in the top 7% for total shots per 90 (3.54), proving just how big an impact he had at Chelsea.
Should an offer come in that is too good to turn down, Maresca will surely accept it. This could allow him to make a move for a player who is on his wish list of late.
Chelsea eyeing move for Lyon sensation
According to football.london, Chelsea are interested in signing Lyon starlet Malick Fofana this summer.
As per the report, the club have already initiated contact with the Ligue 1 side regarding a move.
Any deal for the Belgian international will likely cost around £45m, which shouldn’t pose too much of a problem for the Blues, that’s for sure.
Lyon's Malick Fofana against AC Milan.
Given how many players are set to make the move to Stamford Bridge, however, moving for a first-team star or two looks like the best bet, hence the interest in Madueke.
Swapping the current Chelsea winger for Fofana has the potential to be an excellent deal for all parties involved.
But just what would the 20-year-old bring to Chelsea next season?
Why Chelsea must sign Malick Fofana
Just a couple of months ago, football talent scout Jacek Kulig lavished praise on the young attacking talent, saying: “Malick Fofana – 17 G/A in around 2000 minutes for Lyon this season. 20 years of age.
“Still a bit inconsistent, but already showing flashes of his enormous potential.
Lyon's Malick Fofana
“Big future ahead.”
If he continues on this recent upwards trajectory following a stunning breakthrough season with Lyon, then he could become one of the finest attacking talents on the continent.
With the Blues returning to the Champions League for the first time since the 2022/23 campaign, Fofana could be a dangerous weapon in their quest for glory. Especially taking his Europa League displays from last term into account.
Across ten games in the competition for Lyon, the young dynamo scored six goals while providing two assists.
In addition, when compared to his peers in Europe’s secondary competition, Fofana ranked in the top 1% for non-penalty goals (1.05), progressive carries (7.88) and touches in the opposition penalty area (8.23) per 90 last term.
Of course, this wasn’t in the Champions League, but performing as well as this at such a young age, what is stopping him from shining on the biggest stage?
Fofana is a right-footed winger who prefers to operate on the left so he can cut in on a regular basis. Last season, however, Fofana did play a couple of matches on the right flank, scoring twice in the process.
Could he, then, be an ideal replacement for Madueke should the English starlet move on from the club this summer? It would be interesting to see exactly what position Maresca would utilise Fofana in, especially as he does appear rather flexible.
Given Madueke still has a few years left on his contract, the Blues should be able to demand a decent fee for the player, who only joined in January 2023.
If his sale can free up space for Fofana coming in, a player who appears to have a brighter future, then it would be a shrewd piece of business. For now, Maresca will just be looking to see his team defeat ES Tunis in order to seal a place in the last-16 of the Club World Cup.
Not just Jackson: 5/10 flop must never play for Chelsea again after the CWC
Chelsea were beaten 3-1 by Flamengo in their second game of the Club World Cup.
Liverpool are not willing to rest on their laurels after they won the Premier League in Arne Slot’s first season at Anfield in the 2024/25 campaign.
The Reds have already swooped to make their first signing of the summer transfer window by bringing Jeremie Frimpong to the club from Bayer Leverkusen.
Jeremie Frimpong
He has come in to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has signed for Real Madrid on a permanent basis, and will compete with Conor Bradley for a spot at right-back next term.
The Netherlands international delivered five goals and nine assists in all competitions for Leverkusen this season, which suggests that the full-back could provide plenty of quality in the final third for the Reds.
Frimpong, however, may not be the only attacking dynamo to make the switch from Germany, and Leverkusen specifically, as Liverpool are continuing to work on a deal to sign Florian Wirtz in the coming weeks.
Why Florian Wirtz could be a big signing for Liverpool
Fabrizio Romano recently reported that the club are ‘advancing’ to sign the Germany international, with a medical already being planned for the attacking midfielder.
Journalist Paul Joyce also recently claimed that the Reds have made an offer worth up to £113m for the 22-year-old sensation, which illustrates the kind of money Liverpool will need to spend to get this deal over the line.
It is not a surprise to see that price tag over the Leverkusen star’s head, though, because he has been in fantastic form for the German side over the past two seasons.
Wirtz scored 21 goals and provided 23 assists in the Bundesliga in the 2023/24 and 2024/25 campaigns combined, which shows that he can offer quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals from an attacking midfield position.
His form in the German top-flight this season suggests that he could be an incredibly exciting addition to the squad for Slot, due to his form at the top end of the pitch.
Appearances
31
xG
9.40
Goals
10
Big chances created
17
Key passes per game
1.8
xA
9.44
Assists
12
As you can see in the table above, Wirtz hit double figures for both goals and assists in the Bundesliga for Leverkusen, overperforming against his xG.
Meanwhile, none of Liverpool’s central or attacking midfielders managed more than six goals or six assists in the Premier League, which suggests that the German star would be a big upgrade on what Slot currently has at his disposal.
The Premier League champions, however, are now reportedly lining up a move to bring in a star who would be an even bigger signing than Wirtz.
Liverpool set to bid for Premier League star
According to a report in Spain, Liverpool are eyeing up a move to bring Alexander Isak to Anfield from Newcastle United in the summer transfer window.
The report claims that the Reds are set to make a bid worth up to £101m for the Sweden international. £84m would be up front and the rest would come in performance-based add-ons.
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 reveals that Liverpool have been keeping tabs on Newcastle’s attempts to pin Isak down to a new contract, and that they are ready to pounce if the striker does not commit his future to St. James’ Park.
The outlet adds that the Reds want to move swiftly with a deal for the former Borussia Dortmund attacker, hence why they are planning to make a mega bid for his services.
Newcastle United's AlexanderIsakcelebrates scoring their first goal
However, it remains to be seen whether or not an offer of £101m would be enough to tempt Newcastle into cashing in on their star striker, or if the player would be open to ditching his team in favour of a move to Anfield.
Why Isak would be a bigger signing than Wirtz
Isak would be a bigger signing than Wirtz for Liverpool for a number of reasons, despite potentially costing less than the German star if they can wrap up a transfer at a fee of £101m.
Firstly, it would be a move that would see the club take away one of their Premier League rivals’ top players, weakening their direct competition, rather than going abroad to snap up a talent like Wirtz. This would make him a statement signing for the Reds, because it would illustrate their pull by being able to sign such a player from a rival.
Secondly, and this ties in with the first point, Isak is a proven Premier League performer who would be able to come in and hit the ground running as a player who does not need any time to adapt to the division.
Whereas Wirtz has never played domestic football outside of Germany and, therefore, there are still some doubts over how his game will translate to the Premier League, simply because he has yet to prove himself at that level.
Isak, as shown in the clip above, has also already proven his quality against Liverpool with a terrific goal in the League Cup final at Wembley back in March, leading to Slot describing him as an “unbelievable threat”.
Appearances
34
xG
20.42
Goals
23
Conversion rate
23%
Big chances created
11
Assists
6
As you can see in the table above, the Swedish marksman enjoyed a sensational season with the Magpies in the Premier League, as he was directly involved in 29 goals, nine more than Wirtz was involved in for Leverkusen in the Bundesliga.
Luis Diaz was Liverpool’s top-scoring striker option in the top-flight for Slot with a return of 13 goals, which suggests that Isak would come in as a huge upgrade for the club in the number nine position.
Newcastle striker Alexander Isak
Overall, Isak would be an even bigger signing than Wirtz for Liverpool because of the statement it would send out, signing him from a Premier League rival, the proven quality that he would provide, and the upgrade that he would be for the team.
It now remains to be seen, though, whether or not they can convince Newcastle to part ways with the 25-year-old centre-forward after they wrap up a move for the Leverkusen star.
Better than Huijsen: Liverpool target £50m Gabriel & Saliba "hybrid"
Liverpool are in the market for a new centre-back this summer.
According to a report by Football Insider, the Villans are under pressure to ‘sell a prize asset’ before 30 June to avoid breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules, claiming that Martínez is one of the most likely candidates to be sacrificed.
Well, there are plenty of suitors for the back-to-back Yashin Trophy winner.
Goal documents Manchester United’s interest, while The Telegraph claim that numerous Saudi Pro League clubs would be delighted to secure his signature.
Well, given, as noted by Jacob Tanswell of The Athletic, Martínez’s propensity to deliver ‘defining moments’ and ‘standout performances’, he will be a difficult man to replace, but have Aston Villa actually managed to identify an upgrade?
Aston Villa's first-choice Emi Martínez replacement
According to a report by John Townley for Birmingham Live, Aston Villa will ‘target’ a move to sign LOSC Lille goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier, should Martínez be sold.
Lucas Chevalier for LOSC Lille.
French publication L’Équipe has previously noted that newly-crowned European champions Paris Saint-Germain are tracking the 23-year-old, with TEAMtalk claiming that he is valued at just £34m by les Dogues.
Chevalier joined Lille as a 13-year-old, making 127 appearances for the senior team, conceding exactly 127 goals and keeping 44 clean sheets in this time.
So, could he soon be swapping Northern France for the English Midlands?
Why Lucas Chevalier would be an Emi Martínez upgrade
During his three seasons as Lille’s number one, Chevalier has earned countless rave reviews.
Alongside Rayan Cherki of Olympique Lyonnais, they were the only non-PSG players to feature in Ligue 1’s team of the season.
Meanwhile, following les Nordistes’ stunning 1-0 Champions League victory over Real Madrid at Stade Pierre-Mauroy in October, Joel Domenighetti of L’Équipe described Chevalier’s display as ‘exceptional’, while Nick Hartland of Get French Football News labels him ‘one of the breakout stars’ from this season’s competition.
Described as “one of the most talented young goalkeepers in Europe” by scout Jacek Kulig, what makes him so good is that – in the words of Liam Tharme and Matt Pyzdrowski of the Athletic – he not only boasts ‘excellent reach’ and exceptional ‘handling’, but also that his ‘super-strength’ is his ‘accomplished’ in possession play.
Lucas Chevalier for Lille.
So, how did the young Frenchman compare to the man he could be replacing between the Villa Park posts this season?
The table makes for interesting reading, considering the duo played a near-identical number of minutes this season across their respective domestic leagues and the Champions League
Appearances
48
49
Minutes
4,350
4,275
Goals conceded
53
57
Clean sheets
13
14
Post-shot xG – goals-conceded
+9.6
+4.7
Saves
123
144
Save %
74.9%
72.8%
% of crosses stopped
5.4%
11.3%
Ball recoveries
83
45
Errors leading to an opposition shot
4
8
Note: Martínez’s statistics are Premier League and Champions League only.
Across Europe’s top five leagues, the Frenchman ranks tenth for post-shot xG – goals conceded, while he is also 11th in this season’s Champions League for the same metric, a key figure as Lille upset the odds to finish seventh in the league phase.
Meantime, his save percentage ranks highly both domestically and in the Champions League, with his Ligue 1 figure of 74.6% a noteworthy amount higher than Martínez’s 69% in the Premier League.
This is not to denigrate Martínez in any way, given that former Aston Villa striker Chris Sutton believes the Argentine has been an “outstanding goalkeeper” and a “brilliant shot-stopper” since joining the club in 2020.
Nevertheless, if the Claret and Blue Army are able to sell the 32-year-old for a big fee and replace him with a 23 year old, this is surely an upgrade they should be looking to make.
Aston Villa book medical to sign forward who Emery feels can be next Duran
Sunderland are now only one nail-biting clash away from finally returning to the Premier League.
Of course, this isn’t going to be a straightforward passage back up to the promised land, as Chris Wilder’s intimidating Sheffield United will be aiming to make the Wearside outfit’s day out to Wembley dour by securing their own reentry to the exclusive division.
If Regis Le Bris’ side do perform to the heights they know they’re capable of and hold their nerve, however, top-flight football could finally be back on the menu at the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland's key stars at Wembley
The Blades might well boast the Championship’s Player of the Season in Gustavo Hamer among other standout performers, but the Frenchman will back his own set of stars to get the job done regardless.
After all, Le Bris has his own creative menace down the left flank too in Enzo Le Fee, with the slick loanee’s excellent corner kick delivery against Coventry City last time out sealing Sunderland’s dramatic progression to Wembley.
Of course, Daniel Ballard also had to be in the perfect spot to power home the 25-year-old’s cross, with this ability to pop up with a moment of magic an effective weapon to call upon in the nerve-wracking final.
Alongside both Ballard and Le Fee, Le Bris also has Jobe Bellingham, Wilson Isidor and Eliezer Mayenda at his disposal in attack, with both Mayenda and Isidor getting in on the goalscoring action during the first leg victory over the Sky Blues.
But, Patrick Roberts might not be as fortunate as the tricky trio when it comes to making the starting XI for Wembley.
Consequently, the Black Cats boss could now be tempted to start Sunderland’s new version of Jack Clarke for the one-off tie over the hit-and-miss 28-year-old.
Sunderland winger Jack Clarke
Clarke has history in the play-offs, albeit in League One, notably playing at Wembley on that day in 2022 when the Black Cats defeated Wycombe 2-0 courtesy of goals from Elliot Embleton and Ross Stewart.
GK – Anthony Patterson
RB – Lynden Gooch
CB – Bailey Wright
CB – Danny Batth
LB – Dennis Cirkis
CM – Corry Evans
CM – Luke O’Nien
RW – Patrick Roberts
CAM – Alex Pritchard
LW – Elliot Embleton
CF – Ross Stewart
While Clarke didn’t start, he did come on as a second-half substitute for Embleton. On this occasion, however, their new Clarke must be given his big day out in the capital.
Sunderland's new Jack Clarke
In an ideal reality, the promotion-chasers would still have their former hero around as they attempt to navigate a passage back up to the Premier League.
But, Clarke chose to join Premier League-bound Ipswich Town last summer instead. Yet, that doesn’t diminish his superb tally of 23 goals and 28 assists for the Black Cats when he was performing at the peak of his powers.
Whilst Roberts has shown throughout his long stay on Wearside to date that he can also conjure up moments of quality like Clarke before him – with nine goals and 17 assists coming his way from 144 games – Sunderland’s next iteration of their revered ex-number 20 could instead be Romaine Mundle.
This could result in Mundle coming in for Roberts down the right, despite the ex-Standard Liege man being more of a natural option on the left flank. But, after the 29-year-old failed to register a single on-target effort on the Sky Blues goal across two legs, drastic measures might be deemed necessary.
LW
39
8
6
RW
35
6
5
LM
11
2
3
AM
5
0
2
RM
4
1
0
CF
3
0
0
RB
1
1
0
This suggestion doesn’t even look that radical when you assess the table above with Mundle actually playing 35 career games down the right wing previously, culminating in a healthy six goals and five assists coming his way.
Away from his overall career numbers, however, and he’s already showing why he could be the most fitting recipient of the baton from Clarke when donning a Black Cats strip, with Mundle tallying up five goals and two assists across 23 league contests this season when injury-free.
Previously hailed as “brilliant” by Sunderland skipper Dan Neil, Mundle could well find he’s chucked out to the right flank for his team’s all-or-nothing playoff final, therefore, with the Frenchman having to play his best possible XI no matter what.
Le Fee 2.0: Sunderland set sights on signing "fantastic" star from France
Sunderland could be about to pick up their next Enzo Le Fee with this summer buy.
Looking to rebuild Pep Guardiola’s midfield, Manchester City are now reportedly preparing to step up their deal to sign a £50m star who they want sealed and delivered by June 1.
Man City set for midfield rebuild
With Kevin De Bruyne’s departure confirmed and stars such as Ilkay Gundogan and Bernardo Silva arguably past the peak of their powers, the focus for Manchester City this summer will be on their midfield.
Just how they replace three club legends in one summer is the big question. Already, both Morgan Gibbs-White and Florian Wirtz have been heavily linked with moves to The Etihad, but it seems as though the latter is destined to choose Bayern Munich rather than Guardiola’s side. And whilst news has been more positive in the case of Gibbs-White, City will need more than one reinforcement in the middle of the park.
Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz.
Replacing De Bruyne will be particularly difficult and the extent of the task at hand won’t be lost on Guardiola, who told reporters after the midfielder announced that he would be leaving the club: “Kevin is not a vocal leader. He is a leader in that every day for nine years, except the last year and a half, being there helping the team.
“And his talent is unique, everyone knows it – he has the vision and the pass. When players are up front and Kevin has the ball, and he feels like this, they know they can run because the ball can be delivered.”
Whilst there will be plenty of emotions on show as Manchester City exit an era full of success, this season’s struggles have highlighted that now is the perfect time for fresh faces.
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The Citizens, without Rodri, have been uncharacteristically poor in midfield, and the arrival of one particular player would likely help to put them back on track at the heart of Guardiola’s side.
Man City set to step up Reijnders move
Although reports seemed to go quiet following a flurry of news revealing their interest, those at The Etihad are still reportedly interested in one Serie A star. According to TuttoMercatoWeb, as relayed by Sport Witness, Manchester City are now set to step up their move to sign Tijjani Reijnders, which they want done when the window opens next Sunday, June 1, so they can take the midfielder to the Club World Cup.
Whether AC Milan will make negotiations that easy remains to be seen, however. No matter when a deal potentially takes place, Reijnders is unlikely to come cheap amid a reported €60m (£50m) price tag.
Minutes
3,038
2,580
Goals
10
4
Progressive Carries
110
99
Ball Recoveries
115
102
The player who Reijnders could replace in Man City’s midfield is Silva. The Portugal international has fallen away from his usual intensity this season and has been outperformed by the AC Milan star who could yet be on his way to Manchester.
A player who analyst Ben Mattinson previously praised for the “insane” level that he was performing at, Reijnders may soon complete his move in time to make his Man City debut at the Club World Cup.
Sheffield United eased past Bristol City once more at Bramall Lane to reach the Championship playoff final in emphatic style.
Over two legs, the Blades would run out as comprehensive 6-0 victors, with the Robins actually showing some fight in the early stages in South Yorkshire during the second leg, only for Chris Wilder’s hosts to eventually show off their superiority again to clinch a second successive 3-0 win.
Now, Wilder’s side are only one match away from an instant return to the dizzy heights of the Premier League, with the United display overall just oozing class from several standout performers.
Sheffield United's key performers in the second leg
The Blades did have a three-goal cushion to fall back on heading into the late-night clash at Bramall Lane, but that didn’t culminate in the home side resting on their laurels to try and edge out a result.
Instead, the likes of Kieffer Moore and Gustavo Hamer looked dangerous throughout in the attacking areas, with the pair up top sharing out the first two goals courtesy of two assists from a rampaging Harrison Burrows.
The ex-Coventry City man’s effort was helped into the net by a fortuitous deflection, but neither he nor a beaming Wilder on the sidelines would care as United booked their rightful place at Wembley.
Away from those already named ensuring United’s night was straightforward, Michael Cooper did have to stay alert early on when Liam Manning’s visitors came racing out of the traps. In total, the ex-Plymouth Argyle stopper would make six saves to preserve his team’s clean sheet.
But, not every single United face played out of their skin during the second leg victory, with one out-of-sorts attacker now surely fearful for his starting spot at Wembley.
Sheffield United dud could now be axed at Wembley
The beauty of Monday night’s affair was the fact that Wilder could rest a handful of United players here and there, knowing that the 3-0 lead from the first leg gave them an immediate advantage.
Yet, Tom Cannon – who remained on the bench throughout at Ashton Gate – didn’t exactly put in a performance that is now befitting of a start at Wembley when handed his own first-team chance.
Minutes played
62
Goals scored
0
Assists
0
Touches
18
Shots on target
0
Accurate passes
2/5 (40%)
Total duels won
5/9
Frustratingly, Cannon’s lacklustre showing against the visitors from Bristol was indicative of his whole goal-shy spell at Bramall Lane to date, with only one goal coming his way since making the £10m move from Leicester City back in January.
Judging by the grim numbers above, the Irishman very rarely looked like adding to his meagre one-goal account, with his shooting all off once more when failing to register a single on-target effort at Max O’Leary’s busy net.
To add insult to injury, his link-up play with the likes of Moore up top was also way off, with Cannon only managing two accurate passes all game, meaning he closed out his dire 62-minute stint with just a 40% pass accuracy next to his name.
The obvious alteration Wilder could make ahead of the final is to bring Tyrese Campbell back into the first team fold, considering it took the ex-Stoke City striker around 20 minutes of action to assist Callum O’Hare’s late goal.
After all, it would be an almighty risk on Wilder’s end to persist with Cannon when other attackers are in a richer vein of form, especially if the 22-year-old’s wastefulness costs his side big time in their one-off shot for immediate promotion.
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This Sheffield United star is already Premier League ready ahead of the Blades’ mission to go up via the playoffs.
Leeds United can somewhat relax across their final two Championship games, knowing their position in the Premier League for next campaign is already set in stone.
Of course, there is still the tantalising prize of the title, but it won’t be the end of the world for Daniel Farke and Co if this isn’t won with the hard work already done.
Leeds United manager DanielFarkecelebrates after the match
Farke will hope – regardless of recent rumours popping up surrounding his future – that he is backed in the transfer market ahead of Leeds voyaging up to the big time, with the Whites already being linked with this Premier League regular.
Leeds eyeing up move for top-flight stalwart
As per a report from Football Insider, Leeds are eyeing up a move for West Ham United stalwart Tomas Soucek, with experience added into the building seen as key, who could be signed for a fee of up to £15m.
Indeed, the report states that Soucek is viewed as an ‘ideal’ option in terms of giving Farke some more seasoned Premier League heads, with the long-standing Hammers servant also keen on a move away, having found his game-time as of late limited under Graham Potter.
West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek.
Soucek has also been linked with a move to Everton to reunite with former West Ham boss David Moyes, but Leeds will pray the Czech enforcer chooses Elland Road over Merseyside, knowing that the 30-year-old could potentially strike up a healthy relationship with Ao Tanaka in the holding midfield positions.
Sealing the £15m signature of the ex-Slavia Prague man could also see Leeds move away from attempting to bring Kalvin Phillips back to West Yorkshire, with Soucek a definite improvement on the hot-and-cold Ipswich Town loanee.
Ipswich Town'sKalvinPhillipslooks dejected after the match
What Soucek would offer Leeds
Gaining a player of Soucek’s calibre would undoubtedly help Leeds navigate the choppy waters of the Premier League, considering the 30-year-old has tallied up 189 top-flight appearances for Potter’s side.
Across 240 games in total, Soucek has also been a constant, reliable, source of goals and assists for the Hammers, with 39 strikes and 13 assists notched up proving his importance to the cause over many seasons.
Therefore, winning such a comfortable performer in the tricky division is a no-brainer move for Farke, with Soucek able to gift Leeds grit and quality in equal measure alongside the likes of Tanaka in the midfield areas.
After all, the Japan international will be beaming at the prospect of challenging himself in England’s elite league having impressed throughout the Whites’ promotion success story, seen in the new fan’s favourite picking up four goals and two assists across 41 Championship encounters.
But, away from his impressive output, Tanaka is also tuned into his dogged game as much as Soucek, with the number 22 winning 4.5 duels per league game this season on average. To add context, his potential new Czech teammate playing in the division above has won 5.1 on average.
With seven goals under his belt too in the Premier League for 2024/25, Soucek is more than proving – despite talk of him exiting the London Stadium – that he is still a composed performer at the level deep into his playing days, with another of Leeds’ targets in Phillips unfortunately not able to boast such glowing numbers donning Ipswich blue.
Games played
30
18
Goals scored
7
0
Assists
1
0
Touches*
37.5
42.7
Accurate passes*
19.9
23.2
Total duels won
5.1
3.6
Playing a background role in Ipswich’s fight against the drop, Phillips is now way off what his previous best once was at Elland Road, with Soucek way more effective and impactful in games compared to the former England international.
Therefore, gambling on him to come good again would be an almighty risk, away from any sentimental reasons for a move being back on the table.
Winning Soucek would show that Leeds are serious about staying put in the top-flight, meaning his signature should be a top priority to obtain.
20 summer transfer window targets Leeds United are linked with (2025)
The 49ers could spend big looking to keep Leeds in the Premier League.