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Sunderland’s excessive summer spending looks as if it will continue all across a bumper July.

Already, £67m has been forked out to pick up Enzo Le Fee, Habib Diarra, and Noah Sadiki, and that amount will soon rise as the bold Black Cats put together the finishing touches to secure Chemsdine Talbi from Club Brugge and Simon Adingra from Brighton for an initial fee of £18.5m.

Off the back of firing home seven strikes last season in Belgium, it’s fair to say the excitement levels at the Stadium of Light have risen even more as Talbi edges ever closer to calling Wearside his new home while the addition of Adingra, a Premier League-proven star, will no doubt raise the roof.

Yet, Sunderland aren’t done here when it comes to adding in gems from Europe down the wings to enhance their attacking personnel, as more statement moves wait in the pipeline.

Sunderland eye up club-record £39m move

The name that immediately springs to mind in this regard is Sassuolo star Armand Lauriente, with Sunderland definitely keen on the idea of adding the sparkling Frenchman to their camp very soon.

Transfer Focus

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

Unfortunately, their pursuit of the dynamic left winger has hit some turbulence, as reports suggest that the Regis Le Bris and Co. are a way off Sassuolo’s valuation of the 26-year-old at this point, which comes in at around the hefty £26m price range.

Obviously, Sunderland could well bounce back in this race and splash out such a high amount, considering money doesn’t seem to be too much of a concern for the newly promoted side this summer, but they might well be better placed to just go all out to land an upgrade on Lauriente instead by signing off on a club-record switch for Kerem Aktürkoğlu to move to Wearside.

Indeed, Turkish journalist Kutlu Akpinar – via his X account – has revealed that the Black Cats are keen on snapping up the pricey Benfica attacker this summer, with a £39m price tag above his head.

This really would be an earth-shuddering statement from Sunderland if a move were pulled off, with Aktürkoğlu performing at the very top of his game for many a season now.

Why Aktürkoğlu would be a big upgrade on Lauriente

Of course, Lauriente is just fresh off a 19-goal season himself for his current employers Sassuolo as Fabio Grosso’s men returned to Serie A in style.

On top of that, the £26m attacker has shown he can strut his stuff in both Serie A and Ligue 1 with a high 42 goals and assists coming his way from 133 appearances in these challenging leagues.

24/25

Benfica/Galatasaray

55

18

16

23/24

Galatasaray

51

15

9

22/23

Galatasaray

38

10

14

21/22

Galatasaray

50

13

13

20/21

Galatasaray

31

6

3

Yet, those promising numbers end up paling in comparison with Aktürkoğlu’s exploits with the explosive 26-year-old up to a staggering 94 goals and assists himself when plying his trade in both Turkey and Portugal.

Further, he has also managed to muster up an electric 11 goals and assists when competing in Europe’s most illustrious competition in the Champions League, with that £39m price tag next to his name not looking quite so steep anymore.

Instead, it could be deemed a far more worthwhile investment to make than trying to chase after Lauriente, with Aktürkoğlu already causing Premier League defences all sorts of headaches when he smashed home this effort versus Manchester United on Europe’s grandest stage in 2023.

Hailed as “silky” in approach by data analyst Ben Mattinson at the height of his glittering Galatasaray spell, the time might well be right for the Turkey international to now try and prove himself in another tough European environment in the Premier League.

He would surely be capable of pushing the likes of Enzo Le Fee and Romaine Mundle to a starting spot down the left, whilst Lauriente might fall victim to fading into the background next to such a proven and dangerous performer.

Le Fee 2.0: Sunderland lodge bid to sign 'one of the best LW's out there'

Sunderland fans could soon be cheering on a new star who might be their next Enzo Le Fee.

ByKelan Sarson Jul 9, 2025

Burnley are back in the promised land of the Premier League and could now look to swoop for two young stars to bolster their hopes for the long term at Turf Moor, according to a report.

Burnley sign Loum Tchaouna to complete fourth summer signing

Scott Parker has begun to make moves in Lancashire ahead of the Clarets’ return to the Premier League, with Axel Tuanzebe, Quilindschy Hartman and Max Weiss joining their fight to stay in the top-flight.

Now, Loum Tchaouna has joined Burnley from Lazio for a fee in the region of £13 million, further illustrating their commitment to strengthening ahead of an exciting campaign for all involved at Turf Moor.

Speaking after his arrival was confirmed, the French talent stated: “I spoke with the manager during the (Under-21) Euros this summer and we had a really good conversation, which made me realise I wanted to be here.”

Financially, Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford’s seemingly inevitable move to Newcastle United could free up £40 million to be invested in further reinforcements, even if losing the England Under-21 international will come as a blow to those within the corridors of power.

With July now upon us, the transfer window never rests and Lee Hendrie believes Norwich City forward Josh Sargent would be a ‘great signing’ for the Clarets in light of links involving the United States international with a switch to the Premier League newcomers.

Burnley now plotting summer move for £90,000-a-week Premier League star

He has scored 36 goals in the top flight.

ByHenry Jackson Jun 28, 2025

Either way, it feels like several additions will be necessary to help Burnley stand a chance of avoiding the drop, which is becoming an increasingly difficult task year on year due to the financial disparity between newly-promoted sides and the established clubs.

Nevertheless, Parker could now be set to strengthen the ranks further if recent reports are to be believed.

Burnley make advances to land Salford City duo

According to EFL Analysis, Burnley have seen a bid rejected for Salford City forward Kyrell Malcolm and they are also reportedly interested in bringing his teammate Will Wright to Turf Moor.

Intriguingly, Malcolm, 18, is admired by Everton and Blackburn Rovers, while Wright has attracted interest from the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Brentford.

Kyrell Malcolm at Salford City

Will Wright at Salford City

Appearances – 9

Appearances – 4

Goals – 0

Goals – 0

Assists – 1

Assists – 0

Both players are only in the infancy of their careers, but suitors are beginning to emerge for both strikers in light of their potential to develop into stars of the future.

Previously, Salford City co-owner Ryan Giggs described Malcolm as an “exciting player”, which is quite the compliment given his own standing as one of the Premier League’s finest ever performers at Manchester United.

Neither would be expected to become first-team assets straight away, but the fact Burnley want to add two rising talents to their ranks is an indication that the club are on the correct trajectory.

Manchester United’s need for a new striker this summer is there for all to see, with their dismal record in front of goal massively contributing to their lowly Premier League finish this season.

Rasmus Hojlund was Ruben Amorim’s number one option in such a department throughout 2024/25, scoring just four times in the league throughout his 32 appearances.

Such a tally saw him find the net every eight games, proving that he’s not at the level required if the Red Devils are to rise back up the table in 2025/26.

He’s since been massively touted with a return to Italy, with Inter Milan and Napoli the two sides vying for his signature, but it’s likely the club would lose a whole heap on their £72m investment.

Any funds raised from a potential sale will hand Amorim the needed money to reinvest into the first team squad, to further bolster his ranks if he’s to be successful at Old Trafford.

The latest on United’s pursuit for a new striker this summer

Hugo Ekitiké has been the main option on United’s shortlist over the last couple of weeks, even holding talks with Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt over a move for the Frenchman, who netted 22 goals this season.

Dušan Vlahović has also emerged as a surprise target, with the Serbian international wanting a Premier League move this summer, but his hefty wage demands could prove to be a stumbling block.

As a result, the Red Devils have turned their attention elsewhere, plotting a big-money move to sign Fiorentina striker Moise Kean, according to Corriere Fiorentina via Sport Witness.

The report claims that the club are closely monitoring the Italian’s progress and could make a move during the off-season if they fail to land other key targets.

It also states that the 25-year-old currently has a £44m release clause in his deal with the Serie A outfit, a potential bargain given his record of 25 goals in 44 outings this campaign.

Why United’s £44m target could be Amorim’s own Haaland

Most teams around the world must wish they had a talent as big as Erling Haaland, with the Norwegian forward a constant threat to countless backlines.

The 24-year-old has demonstrated his clinical edge during his time at Manchester City, netting a staggering 121 goals in his 142 appearances for Pep Guardiola’s side.

Such a record previously catapulted the Citizens to a famous treble back in 2022/23, emulating the success set by United during the Sir Alex Ferguson era.

He’s even set the record for the most goals scored in a single 38-game Premier League season, netting a hat-trick in the 6-3 battering at the Etihad that campaign.

However, talents like Haaland are extremely hard to come by, with many costing extortionate transfer fees and making them virtually impossible to sign.

That could be about to change with the Red Devils’ potential deal for Kean, with the Italian talisman being ranked as a similar player to the City star by FBref.

He’s managed to outperform him in numerous key areas, including a better goal per shot on target record, evidently making the most of the chances that fall his way within the final third.

Games played

31

31

Goals & assists

20

25

Goals per shot on target

0.4

0.3

Pass accuracy

70%

66%

Progressive carries

1.4

0.7

Take-on success

44%

36%

Carries into final third

1

0.4

Aerials won

54%

53%

Kean, who’s been labelled “remarkable” by journalist Marco Messina, has also completed more passes and won more aerial battles – showcasing his all-round nature that could play a vital role in United’s build-up.

His dominance doesn’t stop there, completing more take-ons and progressive carries per 90, subsequently able to create his own opportunities without relying on players around him.

Given the prices quoted for other forwards in and around Europe this summer, a deal for Kean could prove to be an excellent one, handing Amorim the ammunition he desperately needs.

If he can replicate Haaland’s success in England’s top flight, it would be one of the signings of the window, offering the side a clinical option that could transform their ambitions of rising up the table in 2025/26.

He'd be perfect for Bruno: Man Utd set to hold talks for "incredible" star

Manchester United could be about to land a star who could take Bruno Fernandes to the next level.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 20, 2025

Celtic may miss out on a deal to bring Scotland international Lennon Miller to Glasgow before the end of the current summer transfer window.

Speaking on Clyde 1 Superscoreboard, as relayed by 67HailHail, former Scottish forward Ross McCormack claimed that the midfield star is likely to be heading abroad instead.

The ex-Fulham and Leeds star said: “I’ve said it for quite a while that I think he would be perfect in Celtic’s midfield. But from all the noises that I have heard – sort of people who are in and around Motherwell and all that – seems to be that he is going to be going abroad.

“When he sees the success your Lewis Ferguson, Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour are having over in Serie A, he might just want a piece of that and sort of get out of the limelight which Glasgow would bring.”

SportsBoom recently reported that both Celtic and Rangers have explored a deal to sign the FWA Young Player of the Year, amid interest from Premier League side Sunderland.

If what McCormack has heard is true, though, then the Hoops are set to miss out on a move for the Scottish central midfielder this summer.

Why missing out on Lennon Miller is a blow for Celtic

Missing out on a deal for the Scotland international should be seen as a blow for the Bhoys because he is a talented young star who could have been a key player for Brendan Rodgers.

The 18-year-old star, as aforementioned, won the FWA Young Player of the Year award in the Scottish Premiership, which illustrates just how impressive he was in midfield for Motherwell this season.

Miller started 32 of their 38 league games and caught the eye with his contributions in and out of possession, with two goals and eight assists for his side.

As you can see in the table below, the teenage starlet also stacked up well against his positional peers in a host of key defensive metrics in the Premiership.

Tackle success rate

68%

Top 28%

Duels won

5.84

Top 36%

Duel success rate

53%

Top 31%

Interceptions

1.38

Top 14%

Ball recoveries

6.52

Top 10%

Blocks

0.48

Top 28%

These statistics illustrate why it is a blow for the Hoops to seemingly be on course to miss out on a deal to sign the Scotland international from Motherwell this summer, as he has shown that he can perform well in and out of possession in the top-flight already.

However, this does also provide Celtic with an opportunity to look elsewhere and find alternative midfield targets, which is the case with their latest reported pursuit of a Scottish star.

Celtic ramp up pursuit of Premier League midfielder

According to Football Insider, the Premiership champions are interested in a deal to sign £1.6m West Ham United central midfielder Andy Irving in the summer transfer window.

The report claims that the Hoops are set to ramp up their efforts to bring the Scotland international to Parkhead to bolster their options in the middle of the park for next season.

Transfer Focus

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

It adds that West Ham are prepared to cash in on the left-footed maestro after he rarely featured for Julen Lopetegui or Graham Potter in the Premier League during the 2024/25 campaign.

Former scout Mick Brown described him as a top-flight level player, though, as he told Football Insider: “They’re in a difficult market, it’s not easy to sign Premier League-level players, but if one becomes available like he has, I think they’ll be all over it.”

Football Insider also reveals that Irving is a leading target for the Hoops, as they eye a new midfielder, and that they are set to accelerate their plans to sign him now that the window is open again.

Why Celtic should sign Andy Irving

Celtic should sign Irving as a dream alternative to Miller as a midfield signing because he may be a better stylistic fit for the Hoops than the Motherwell man would be.

The 18-year-old star is not used to playing in a team that dominates possession with plenty of touches and passes each game, whilst the West Ham gem’s form in the 2024/25 Premier League season suggests that he would suit Celtic’s way of playing.

Passes made

60.00

28.26

Pass accuracy

90.0%

72%

Long passes made

3.89

3.34

Long pass accuracy

87.5%

42%

Cross accuracy

50%

25%

Touches

87.78

61.36

As you can see in the table above, the left-footed midfielder is far more used to handling the ball and controlling games as an efficient passer, taking plenty of touches per 90, which is needed in a Hoops team that averaged 75.1% of the ball per game in the league this season.

Irving did not provide any goals or assists in his ten outings in the Premier League, though, but he did catch the eye from an offensive perspective during his time with Klagenfurt in Austria in the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons.

The 25-year-old whiz racked up 14 goals and ten assists in two seasons with the Austrian side, which shows that the potential is there for him to provide quality in front of goal, as Miller did for Motherwell this term.

Irving also made 2.7 tackles and interceptions per game and won 50% of his duels in the 2023/24 Bundesliga season, illustrating that he can also offer defensive strength when needed.

Overall, the West Ham outcast appears to be a dream alternative to Miller because of his suitability to the ball-dominant style of play, his attacking potential, and his competency defensively.

As exciting as Nygren: £7m star is now a target for Celtic this summer

Celtic are eyeing up another forward alongside the signing of Benjamin Nygren.

ByDan Emery Jun 17, 2025

It is now down to the club to ensure that they can agree a deal with the Hammers to bring Irving over to Glasgow before the end of the summer transfer window, now that it seems unlikely that they will be able to snap up Miller from Motherwell.

Liverpool love to get their business done nice and early in the transfer window, and that ethos has proved no different this summer.

Whereas last year, an August attempt to sign Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, who is now set for Arsenal, fell through, this summer FSG are fully settled into their new infrastructure and are attacking the market with menace.

There will be something of a pause over the next days though, with the market slamming shut this evening until next Monday, prematurely opened due to exceptional circumstances because of the Club World Cup.

However, this won’t mean sporting director Richard Hughes will freeze his negotiating, having already signed Jeremie Frimpong to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold and pushing to close deals for Milos Kerkez and Florian Wirtz, both of whom are expected to play for Liverpool next season.

But with the likes of Darwin Nunez, Federico Chiesa and Luis Diaz’s futures uncertain, there’s only so much the Reds can do.

Indeed, with interest fierce for Colombian winger Diaz, Liverpool may need a new star to complement Mohamed Salah on the opposite flank.

Why Liverpool need new forwards

If Liverpool manage to pull off the signing of Wirtz, he would more likely than not take the number ten spot, which would push Dominik Szoboszlai into a deeper, eight-type role.

And if Diaz is sold, with Barcelona and Al-Nassr among the 28-year-old’s admirers, the urgency for a new left-sided forward would only be heightened.

Mohamed Salah, after all, can’t do it all on his own once again next season. The Egyptian King was the leading man through Arne Slot’s successful first season on Merseyside, winning the Premier League.

Mohamed Salah

38

29

18

47

Harry Kane

31

26

10

36

Kylian Mbappe

34

31

3

34

Omar Marmoush

33

22

12

34

Mateo Retegui

36

25

8

33

He might have signed a new two-year contract at the club, but Salah turns 33 in a few days and will need some more support.

That’s why, if Diaz goes, Liverpool are ready to sign one of the most exciting wide forwards playing in English football.

Liverpool chasing new winger

As per Football Insider, Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon is at the top of Liverpool’s shopping list this summer, with FSG warming to the idea of signing a new winger.

Though AC Milan’s Rafael Leao has also been added to the list, it’s Gordon who Liverpool hope to give priority in the event of Diaz’s departure, though Arsenal are believed to be interested too.

Valued at £80m, the England international clearly wouldn’t come cheap, but he was profiled by Liverpool’s chiefs last summer and is of a long-standing interest to the Premier League champions.

What Anthony Gordon would bring to Liverpool

When Gordon transferred from Everton to Newcastle for £45m in January 2023, he was a talented prospect, sure, but perhaps not one who justified such a heavy outlay.

Fast-track to the present, and the 24-year-old’s stock has ballooned almost twofold, having been crowned Newcastle’s 2023/24 Player of the Season after notching 28 goal involvements.

Declaring himself a “nightmare for anyone” he comes up against, Gordon didn’t reach the same heights last season even as his side went from strength to strength, winning the Carabao Cup and restoring their place in the Champions League, but he still contributed toward the team’s success.

Ferocious when striding forward, powerful with his shooting and clever with his passing, Gordon has the full package of qualities at his core, and could find himself reaching a new level in his development, if charged by Salah.

Long renowned as one of the deadliest goalscorers on the continent, Salah has tailored his game to a new level of playmaking over the past few years, with Father Time casting furtive glances his way.

As per FBref, the winger ranked among the top 1% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues last term for assists, the top 14% for goal-creating actions and the top 4% for carries into the penalty area, emphasising his peerless ability to drive into dangerous positions and make things happen.

With Gordon overlapping on the alternate flank, finding space of his own, Salah might just find the perfect man to arc his crisp, threaded cross-box passes toward.

Though Liverpool’s main man is getting on a bit, he’s hardly going to fall from a proverbial cliff at the start of the 2025/26 season, especially after reaching such astronomic heights in a new role, intensity reduced, under Slot’s wing.

However, he will need support, and Gordon – essentially a right-footed version of the Reds star – proved across the 2023/24 term that he can produce almighty hauls across both goalscoring and creative metrics to drive his team toward success.

With an athletic style, improvements across the past two years under Howe’s coaching, and indeed a desire to return to Merseyside having been released from Liverpool’s academy aged 11, boyhood Red Gordon would be a credit to Liverpool’s team.

For now, we will have to wait and see what happens with Diaz, but if Saudi suitors pay the big bucks for Liverpool’s experienced star, who better to bring into the fold, giving Salah a new partner to work with, than the Prem-proven Gordon?

Outscored Isak & Ekitike: Liverpool open talks to sign "monster" new Suarez

Liverpool are looking to sign a new striker this summer.

2 ByAngus Sinclair Jun 10, 2025

Silly season is officially here, and it looks like it’s going to be a long but exciting one for Arsenal.

The areas Mikel Arteta and Co need to strengthen over the coming months are apparent, with perhaps the most significant position of need being centre-forward.

One of the names who has been most heavily linked with the Premier League runners-up in recent weeks has been Benjamin Sesko.

The Slovenian striker looks like he could be one of the game’s next great strikers, but if recent reports are to be believed, the North Londoners are also looking at someone else who could be an even better option.

Arsenal eyeing Sesko alternative

Before getting to the man in question, it’s worth looking at some of the other talented strikers who have been touted for a move to Arsenal in recent weeks, like Evann Guessand and Nick Woltemade.

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 enjoyed an impressive campaign with OGC Nice this season, in which he scored 13 goals and provided ten assists in 42 games, which more than justifies the £25m price tag on his head.

Likewise, the £42m VfB Stuttgart reportedly want for Woltemade doesn’t feel too unreasonable, as in just 33 games this season, the German poacher was able to score 17 goals and provide three assists while also winning the German Cup.

However, the Gunners might prefer a striker with more Premier League experience and a proven track record in England, which is where Ollie Watkins steps up.

According to a recent report from The Athletic, Arsenal have maintained an interest in the Aston Villa star despite failing to sign him in January.

The report claims that the England international, whom Arteta pushed for in the winter window, is still a topic of discussion among the club’s decision-makers, although his price could once again prove to be a stumbling block.

The Villans wanted £60m for him earlier this season, although with profit and sustainability rules still reportedly a cause for concern, there is a chance they’ll accept a lower fee in the coming weeks.

It would be a complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Watkins’ immense ability, it’s one worth pursuing, especially as he’d be a better signing than Sesko.

How Watkins compares to Sesko

So, with Arsenal undeniably needing a new striker this summer, who would be the better choice out of Watkins and Sesko?

Well, when it comes to their raw output, which is ultimately what matters most for a forward, it’s the Villa star who has the far better ratio of goal involvements to minutes played this season.

For example, in 54 appearances, which came to 3578 minutes of action, the Englishman, whom podcaster Rohan Jivan described as “one of the best centre-forwards in Europe,” scored 17 goals and provided 14 assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 115.41 minutes.

In contrast, the Slovenian international scored 21 goals and provided six assists in 45 appearances, totalling 3258 minutes this season, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 120.66 minutes.

Unfortunately for the RB Leipzig star, the comparison only becomes more one-sided when we take a look at their underlying numbers, with the former Exeter City gem coming out on top in the majority of relevant metrics, from non-penalty expected goals plus assists to progressive carries and more, all per 90.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.59

0.40

Non-Penalty Goals + Assists

0.76

0.61

Progressive Passes

1.07

1.74

Progressive Carries

1.90

1.78

Shots

2.84

2.50

Shots on Target

1.25

1.10

Passing Accuracy

72.4%

67.6%

Key Passes

0.83

0.72

Passes into the Penalty Area

0.45

0.34

Shot-Creating Actions

1.84

1.93

Goal-Creating Actions

0.42

0.34

Successful Take-Ons

0.35

1.48

Finally, on top of being statistically more impressive, the former Brentford star is also the safer bet, as he’s already proven that he can thrive in the Premier League, and the club needing a major trophy next season, it makes far more sense to go with the known quantity.

Therefore, while Sesko is great, Arsenal should do what they can to sign Watkins this summer, as he may be the missing piece of the puzzle that lands them a Premier League or Champions League title next year.

Their answer to Wirtz: Arsenal moving to sign "terrifyingly good" £85m star

The international superstar would be an incredible addition to Arsenal’s squad.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 3, 2025

Liverpool have been extremely busy in the transfer market even before the window has officially opened, and there is also a chance they could convince a £49m forward to become their fourth signing of the summer.

Liverpool to put icing on title cake with three new signings

Reds supporters have been treated to a dream week, as the Premier League trophy was hoisted by a Reds captain in front of a fully packed Anfield for the first time, having celebrated their previous top flight title behind closed doors.

The fun didn’t stop on Sunday either, as thousands of supporters took to the streets of Liverpool to celebrate their heroes at Monday’s parade.

Away from the action on the pitch, FSG, Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes have already been hard at work to ensure they capitalise on their domestic dominance, with three signings close to completion.

Florian Wirtz is expected to join from Bayer Leverkusen, with a first bid of over £80m submitted and the player keen to join, while his teammate, wing-back Jeremie Frimpong, is all but signed, sealed and delivered having already completed his Merseyside medical.

Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez is expected to become their third capture of a busy summer period – he has agreed personal terms and the clubs remain locked in talks over a possible £45m move.

Approach made: Liverpool make contact to sign "ridiculous" £51m PSG target

The Reds have now made a move to sign a forward, who is also wanted by Paris Saint-Germain.

ByDominic Lund May 21, 2025

But with Darwin Nunez expected to move on this summer as well as doubts over the futures of Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota, there could also be movement on a fourth new face in the shape of a £49m forward.

According to a report from Spain, Liverpool are now Real Madrid’s biggest rival in the race for Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, and there is a feeling he is tempted to ignore the interest from Spain and move to Anfield.

Williams is willing to listen to offers from English clubs, and being part of a Reds frontline which may soon include Wirtz is seen as exciting by the speedy Euro 2024 winner.

Bilbao are desperate to keep hold of the winger, but they could be powerless to prevent a departure if the £49m release clause is paid in full, although there is a feeling those at Anfield would have to dish out hefty wages to win the race for his signature.

"Electric" Williams could be perfect Luis Diaz heir

Diaz is yet to sign a new contract, with the Colombian now approaching the penultimate year of his deal, and interest from Barcelona could pose a problem for the Reds, with Hansi Flick reportedly a huge fan of the tricky winger.

Williams however has been a key player in Bilbao for quite some time despite only being 22 years of age, making 166 appearances for his boyhood club and picking up 11 goals and seven assists in all competitions this season.

Much like Diaz, the Spain international also likes to drive at opposition defences, ranking in the top 2% for successful take-ons per 90 over the past year, making it no surprise La Liga’s official media channel called him “electric”.

Statistic

Average per 90

Successful take-ons

3.32 (98th percentile)

Progressive carries

5.70 (92nd percentile)

Shot-creating actions

5.24 (89th percentile)

Slot may be hoping that Diaz is tempted to extend his stay at Anfield, having scored 13 Premier League goals this season, but Williams is clearly a solid long-term replacement, with similar pace and directness and potential to even better the Colombian’s end product as he approaches his prime.

Liverpool’s second-half collapse may have put a dampener on Sunday’s clash with Arsenal, although the Premier League champions had started the day in rampant mood, after racing into a two-goal lead at Anfield.

Two goals in the space of a minute from Cody Gakpo and Luiz Diaz came amid that first-half onslaught for the hosts, with the pair having now scored 18 and 17 goals, respectively, this season in all competitions.

With Mohamed Salah – who boasts 33 across all fronts – rounding off that frontline, the trio have been the standout figures in Arne Slot’s attacking unit in 2024/25, with no other player having reached double figures for goals thus far.

While there had been doubts over Diaz’s future at the club, more recent reports suggested that a new deal could be on the cards for the former Porto man. Salah, of course, has already put pen to paper on his long-awaited contract extension.

Games (starts)

35 (17)

33 (21)

Goals

8

10

Scoring frequency

206min

179min

Big chances missed

6

6

Big chances created

5

8

Assists

5

3

Key passes*

0.7

1.0

Pass accuracy*

79%

84%

Successful dribbles*

0.9

0.9

With Gakpo, meanwhile, tied down until 2028, the flanks look to be in a good place for the Merseysiders moving forward. That said, a new wideman could be on the cards this summer…

Liverpool's search for a forward

It is no secret that Liverpool’s priority ahead of next term is likely to be the addition of a new centre-forward, with Darwin Nunez looking set to depart after netting just seven times in total this season.

The primary target would appear to be Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, albeit with the £100m-rated Swede seemingly out of reach, the likes of Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres are also reportedly under consideration.

Away from the pursuit of a number nine, however, journalist Graeme Bailey has also reported that the Reds could be in the mix for Athletic Club sensation, Nico Williams, with the Spaniard seemingly ‘willing’ to move to England this summer.

Transfer Focus

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

According to Bailey, it is Arsenal and Chelsea who are leading the race at present, although Manchester City, Newcastle and Liverpool have all made contact with the player’s representatives.

As reported elsewhere, the Euro 2024 winner would be able to depart if any suitor triggers his €58m (£49m) release clause, albeit with one potential sticking point likely to prove his wage demands. The Daily Mail – via GOAL – reported he would be looking to earn more than £400k-per-week, a figure close to what Virgil van Dijk will seemingly be taking home following the signing of his own extension.

Such a salary could prove a real stumbling block for Slot and co, although should a compromise be met, the 22-year-old would be a more than worthy addition to the Anfield ranks.

Why Liverpool could be targeting the next Gakpo

As noted above, Sunday’s stalemate with the Gunners saw Gakpo get on the scoresheet once again, with the 26-year-old nodding home from Andy Robertson’s whipped cross to notch his tenth Premier League goal of the campaign.

That marked the first time that the former PSV Eindhoven man has reached double figures for league goals for the club, after netting 15 times in the 18 months prior to that, following his £35m arrival in January 2023.

Prior to moving to Merseyside, the then-Manchester United target had been a real revelation in his homeland for PSV, having registered 55 goals and 49 assists in 149 games for the Eredivisie giants, offering a relentless threat down the left flank or in a central role.

Such quality had also been on show on the international scene, with Gakpo scoring in every group stage game at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, just a matter of months before moving to England.

In many ways, there would be a sense of Deja Vu if young Williams is to follow suit this summer, with the Bilbao wizard having also dazzled in his homeland, with 61 goals and assists in 166 senior games.

That includes a return of 11 goals and seven assists in all competitions this season, amid the Basque side’s surge to the Europa League semi-final, with it no surprise that he has been dubbed “one of the best wingers on the market” by analyst Ben Mattinson.

Like Gakpo too, it is for his national team where Williams has perhaps made the bigger splash, having started in six of Spain’s seven games en route to glory last summer, while memorably netting in the showpiece success over England.

A natural right-footer who typically operates off the left flank, much like Gakpo, Williams also emulates his Liverpool counterpart due to his versatility, having also been just as comfortable operating on the opposite side in his career to date,

That flexibility should ensure that the in-demand speedster provides welcome competition and cover for the likes of Diaz, Gakpo and Salah on either flank, with the chance there for Williams to enjoy gradual progression in a Liverpool shirt – much like Gakpo has been afforded the time to do.

As this campaign has already showcased, Slot’s starting lineup looks strong and healthy – now it’s the time to really enhance the squad as a whole with exciting, high potential moves.

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A recent report suggested that there are just four players deemed to be unsellable this summer at Manchester United, with almost the entire squad at risk of being shown the door, should a suitable offer arrive.

Unsurprisingly – despite recent interest from Saudi Arabia – talismanic captain, Bruno Fernandes is among that select quartet, with the 30-year-old only recently lauded as “one of the top players in the world” by compatriot, Ruben Amorim.

20-year-old wing-back Patrick Dorgu was also named, having only joined the club from Lecce in January, while man of the moment Harry Maguire appears to be another set to stay put, having been described as “perfect” for the 3-4-3 system by his manager.

The final name mentioned on that list was a player who only recently signed a new bumper contract extension, with Amad Diallo committing his future to the club until the summer of 2030.

Previously something of a bit-part player in previous regimes, the returning Ivorian now looks set to be front and centre under Amorim – and deservedly so.

Amad's record under Ten Hag vs under Amorim

There was a feeling that Amad’s chance would never come at Old Trafford, with the former Atalanta wonderkid having actually signed as far back as October 2020, before eventually arriving just a few months.

An inventive header against AC Milan on debut showcased a mere glimpse of why United had forked out an initial fee of £19m, albeit with the then-teenager going on to play just eight games under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s watch.

Sent out on loan to Rangers and then Sunderland, Amad’s subsequent return to the first-team squad was halted by injury on the pre-season tour in 2023, with Erik ten Hag seemingly hesitant to unleash the forward even when he was back to full fitness for the start of 2024.

While last season ended on a high with his first Premier League goal against Newcastle United, having netted the winner in the FA Cup thriller against Liverpool, he never seemingly earned the faith of the Dutchman, having again slipped behind Antony in the attacking pecking order prior to Ten Hag’s dismissal.

Reinvigorated during Ruud van Nistelrooy’s interim spell, which yielded two goals, the £120k-per-week winger has also been a shining light following Amorim’s arrival, having chalked up an assist from wing-back for the first goal of the Portuguese’s tenure against Ipswich Town.

Manager

Games

Goals

Assists

Erik ten Hag

24

3

3

Ruben Amorim

22

7

6

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

8

1

1

Ruud van Nistelrooy

4

2

1

Ralf Rangnick

1

0

0

Michael Carrick

0

0

0

Total

59

13

10

High-profile goals have since followed against the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool, alongside a blistering hat-trick against Southampton, with Sunday’s consolation strike against Brentford marking his 13th goal involvement in just 22 outings under the new boss.

Injury had hampered his progress between February and April, but fit and firing again, Amad will be crucial over the coming weeks, and potentially years.

That said, it is exciting to suggest that an even bigger attacking talent could be on their way to Manchester this summer…

Man Utd could sign an even bigger talent than Amad

The last year or so has marked a real rise for Amad in a United shirt, having stepped into the limelight and stayed there, seemingly unburdened by the pressures that have shackled far too many before him.

A refreshingly positive and front-foot player, the diminutive wideman is a talent that gets the crowd off their feet. The next challenge, however, is to find real consistency, particularly on the Premier League front.

That is a quality that reported summer target, Bryan Mbeumo has showcased in abundance, with the Cameroon international having enjoyed a simply stunning campaign for the Bees in 2024/25.

Recent reports have claimed that the Red Devils are eyeing a potential move for the £60m-rated sensation this summer, with interest also being shown in another shining top-flight talent, Matheus Cunha.

It is Mbeumo, however, who has eclipsed both Cunha and Amad – as indicated below – with the France-born speedster racking up 18 goals and six assists in the league this season. To put that into perspective, not even Marcus Rashford has reached 18 goals in a Premier League campaign in his career so far.

Games

23

30

35

Goals

7

15

18

Assists

6

6

6

Big chances created

5

12

16

Key passes*

1.7

1.8

1.8

Pass accuracy*

85%

79%

74%

Successful dribbles*

1.7

1.9

1.3

Possession lost*

10.8

15.7

17.0

Fouls won*

1.0

2.3

1.2

That record of 16 ‘big chances’ created also outlines just what a weapon Mbeumo has been under Thomas Frank, with not even United’s creative hub, Fernandes, able to better that tally (14), as per Sofascore.

There’s no denying that this has been by far Mbeumo’s best season since Brentford’s promotion, although that’s not to say he hasn’t impressed previously, having registered 67 goals and assists in 140 appearances in the competition – including 18 goals in 2022/23 and 2023/24 combined.

Amad, meanwhile, has just eight goals and eight assists in the Premier League to date – albeit from only 35 games – with Mbeumo something of the benchmark when it comes to the very best that the division has to offer.

Simply “unplayable” on his day, in the words of Frank, the former Troyes man would be a worthy option as a number nine, a number ten or even in a wing-back berth, with the potential there for him to emerge as United’s new attacking figurehead.

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The cult of Scott McTominay is growing in Naples, with the former Manchester United man having emerged as the unlikely spearhead of the Serie A side’s charge toward the title in Italy.

Now shining alongside another ex-Red Devil in Romelu Lukaku, the towering midfielder has now scored 11 league goals in 2024/25 to date, a record that places him above every player in Ruben Amorim’s current ranks.

Indeed, the 6 foot 4 sensation has been particularly vital in recent weeks after popping up with five goals across just his last three Serie A games, having scored more league goals in those outings than Rasmus Hojlund has done all season back in Manchester.

Whether it is perhaps with hindsight in mind, there is a nagging feeling that maybe the INEOS regime were wrong to cash in on the 28-year-old last summer, despite raking in a £25m fee, with Erik ten Hag having been adamant that he “didn’t want” to sell the unsung star at the time.

As it is, the experienced powerhouse is now the new king of Napoli, with United turning their attention elsewhere amid the need to bolster the midfield ranks…

Latest on Man Utd's search for a midfielder

The priority positions this summer may well be a new striker and a goalkeeper, as outlined by the Manchester Evening News, although there is certainly work to be done to strengthen in the centre of the park.

With 33-year-old playmaker Christian Eriksen set to depart following the looming expiry of his contract – and with fellow veteran Casemiro likely to be linked with an exit of his own – options in the midfield two will be slim next term, outside of Manuel Ugarte and Bruno Fernandes.

Equally, with Kobbie Mainoo having been pushed into a more advanced number ten role of late – a position that Fernandes could still return to – that dearth of options is exposed even more, hence the need to hand Amorim some quality reinforcements.

Transfer Focus

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

According to reports in Spain – via Football 365 – the Old Trafford outfit have set their sights on Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez, with the promising Spaniard viewed as the ‘perfect fit’ for Amorim’s 3-4-3.

Indeed, the report goes as far as to suggest that such interest has even led United and INEOS to now be readying an offer for the 22-year-old, said to be worth in the region of €30m (£25m).

That proposal is said to have sparked something of a ‘divide’ at Camp Nou, with the LaLiga giants viewing Lopez – who boasts a €500m (£425m) release clause – as a ‘key player’, albeit while remaining open to a sale amid their ‘complicated’ financial situation.

There are also doubts over whether the player himself actually wants to make the move, although if he can be convinced, it could represent a real coup for INEOS.

Why Fermin Lopez would be a good signing

As evidenced during Wednesday’s thrilling Champions League, first-leg semi-final clash with Inter, the current incarnation of Barcelona are a truly mouthwatering prospect, spearheaded by the devastating brilliance of Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Raphinha.

In a side that boasts so much attacking and midfield quality, including the likes of Dani Olmo and Frenkie de Jong too, young Lopez has largely been forced to take on an impact role under Hansi Flick, having actually started just 16 games in all competitions this season.

To his credit, the La Masia graduate has taken his chance whenever he has been called upon, after contributing four goals and nine assists in total in 2024/25, including a return of one goal and four assists on the continent.

Games (starts)

31 (14)

23 (9)

Goals

8

3

Assists

0

4

Big chances created

1

5

Key passes*

0.6

0.8

Pass accuracy*

85%

86%

Tackles*

1.3

0.8

Interceptions*

0.1

0.2

Balls recovered*

2.3

2.4

Described by former boss Xavi Hernandez as the “whole package” in the past, the United target is certainly not the main man in Catalonia, but is a real threat from his advanced midfield role, having even registered two goals and two assists in the 7-1 thrashing of Valencia earlier in the campaign.

That role as a box-crashing substitute certainly sounds familiar, with that the status that McTominay enjoyed last term at the Theatre of Dreams under Ten Hag, having chalked up ten goals across all fronts.

The all-action star memorably scored twice in stoppage time to seal a dramatic comeback win over Brentford in that 2023/24 season, having also sealed victory away at Villa Park with a bullet header late on.

While Lopez may be of far smaller stature at just 5 foot 9, he does mirror McTominay with regard to his ball-carrying prowess, as shown in the fact that he ranks in the top 19% of his LaLiga peers for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref. His Napoli counterpart, meanwhile, ranks in the top 14% in that regard in Serie A.

Equally too, the duo are alike with regard to their attitude and application, despite not often taking the spotlight. As Xavi said of Lopez, he “is hungry and has a great character”, while in the case of McTominay, he had been tipped to be a future “captain” of Man United by interim coach, Ralf Rangnick due to his “leadership skills”.

Such qualities are vital in any squad, with Amorim likely to relish the chance to work with a player of Lopez’s quality and mindset.

Like McTominay before him, he may go under the radar amid the bright lights around him, although the two-cap Spain international may well be perfect for either the midfield two or one of the two number ten berths next season at Old Trafford.

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