All posts by z3u9t.icu

The storm of the summer transfer window has passed, and Liverpool are now enjoying a welcome period through calmer waters as the first international break of the campaign takes centre stage.

Some might feel that the break came at the right time for Arne Slot’s Liverpool, who won the Premier League so confidently last year but have since undergone significant upheaval, something that showed across the opening matches of the campaign.

Liverpool produced a display of much greater solidity when beating Arsenal 1-0 at Anfield last weekend, and it’s worth stressing that while this new iteration of Redmen have their detractors, they have claimed nine points from nine and added Alexander Isak to their ranks on deadline day.

Some signing, that. Liverpool fought tooth and nail across many weeks to sign the 25-year-old marksman, but they secured their quarry and have scored a major upgrade on Darwin Nunez.

Why Liverpool signed Isak

Liverpool entered the summer transfer window with a single-track mind: they needed to sign an elite striker to lead Slot’s line.

It had been anticipated for a while that Nunez would be sold. The Uruguayan striker had struggled to kick on in Red across his three years at the club, with only 25 Premier League goals scored over his three campaigns, missing 53 big chances, as per Sofascore.

Premier League

95

25 (16)

Champions League

17

5 (1)

Carabao Cup

13

2 (6)

Europa League

10

5 (1)

FA Cup

7

2 (2)

Community Shield

1

1 (0)

For such a staggering transfer fee, initially £64m with a view toward an £85m total package, Nunez flattered to deceive. In fact, Liverpool never forked out the full sum, for the forward never hit his stride.

It bears testament to sporting director Richard Hughes’ skill that he sold Nunez to Al Hilal this summer in a deal rising to £57m.

And now Liverpool have signed Isak. The Sweden international has linked up with his countrymen over in Scandinavia and will no doubt relish the chance for this sojourn ahead of his new chapter on Merseyside.

It was an unsavoury transfer saga, to be sure, but one which ended in joy for Liverpool. Along with Hugo Ekitike, the Anfield side have landed a big upgrade at number nine, with Isak in particular capable of blitzing his positional competition over the coming years.

While everything has worked out now, Liverpool did actually have an original version of the Swede in their ranks before, but they sold the Premier League star for a comparatively small fee.

Indeed, Dominic Solanke never found his footing at Liverpool.

Why it didn't work out for Solanke at Liverpool

Liverpool signed a 19-year-old Solanke on a free transfer from Chelsea in 2017, and he went on to make 27 appearances for Jurgen Klopp’s side, scoring his first and only goal on the final day of the 2017/18 Premier League season.

Liverpool did well to turn a big profit on the youngster, selling him to Bournemouth for £19m. This move proved instrumental for the England international, who honed his skills across the first and second tiers and eventually earned himself the big-money move he had been touted for all those years earlier.

The 27-year-old joined Tottenham Hotspur from Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth for a club-record £65m fee in 2024, coming off the back of a remarkable 19-goal campaign on the south coast, underscoring his improvement from talented hopeful to reliable Premier League frontman.

While it hasn’t all been plain sailing for Solanke since earning his switch to the capital, with injuries limiting him last season, he has established himself as a talented and versatile central striker, described as a “pressing monster” by reporter George Sessions.

In this way, he might be something like Isak, who was hailed last year as being “the best all-round centre-forward” in the league by pundit Ally McCoist.

Isak might not have kicked a ball for Liverpool yet, but he’s the benchmark, all right. Having proven himself over the past three years in the Premier League, it’s inconceivable that he would fall by the wayside.

Solanke, deceptively fast and just as powerful, isn’t in the same bracket, but he plays in a way that Liverpool have shown time and time again in recent years as being their stylistic preference at number nine.

FBref’s statistical data reveals that Solanke ranks among the top 17% of forwards across Europe over the past year for assists per 90, with his ranged approach to his game offering similarities to players such as Isak and Nunez (minus the latter’s profligacy).

That said, rarely have we seen Solanke chalk up numbers of the same calibre as Isak, with his dynamism lending itself to a fluid attacking role, but the jury still out as to his goalscoring ability down N17, having posted 16 goals and eight assists across 48 matches for the Lilywhites so far.

If he can stay fit, Solanke might hit some rather fluent form at Newcastle this season, though, with the Danish tactician previously outlining his capacity to shape physical and athletic strikers into phenoms. Just look at Ivan Toney.

Ultimately, Liverpool might have once felt that they could have got more from the sale of Solanke, whose potential was always clear but whose circuitous journey to the top precluded a more linear route, but they won’t care now.

Even so, they missed out on millions, and having since paid a premium for a young Benfica prospect named Nunez, a bit more time invested in Solanke might have seen him become a star under Klopp and now Slot’s wings.

He has Isak-like qualities, after all.

Not Ngumoha: Liverpool's exciting 17-year-old could become the next Isak

Liverpool have refined every level of their squad this summer, from youth to senior standard.

ByAngus Sinclair Sep 4, 2025

The Hill Dickinson Stadium came alive on Sunday afternoon, with a battling Everton performance making it a perfect start to life in their new home, beating Brighton & Hove Albion 2-0.

Everton are now on the board for the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, rebounding after a disappointing and contentious opening-week defeat to Leeds United at Elland Road.

Last week, Sky Sports’ Gary Neville remarked that Everton need “three or four more players” before the closure of the transfer market. Since then, a £40m deal has been agreed for Southampton youngster Tyler Dibling.

The Toffees still need a right-back and will consider further positions too. However, the signing of Jack Grealish on loan from Manchester City has done much for the club already, the 29-year-old starring as Everton overcame Brighton on their new patch of Merseyside.

Jack Grealish's dream start

Grealish repaid the faith on his home debut as an Everton player, notching two excellent assists as Moyes’ side claimed their first points of the season.

Defeat against the Seagulls would have left a sour taste for the Merseysiders, but they proved that the spirit of Goodison Park lives on within a new setting, this blue sea charging a tenacious and industrious performance on the field.

Grealish adds flair and flavour to Everton’s squad, and The Athletic’s Paddy Boyland remarked he was one of the “standouts” against Brighton, alongside the indomitable Jordan Pickford, already looking like producing more potent results than have been the case at City for the past few years.

25/26 – EFC

2

0

2

24/25 – MCFC

20

1

1

23/24 – MCFC

20

3

1

22/23 – MCFC

28

5

7

21/22 – MCFC

26

3

3

20/21 – AVFC

26

6

12

And, according to Spanish reports, the Three Lions star is already the centre of internal discussions on Merseyside regarding a potential permanent deal. Such is his quality, such is the excitement after that incredible full debut.

Following this trend, TFG might want to repeat their trick in raiding another Premier League rival for a talented player deemed surplus to requirements.

They might even have found such a player already.

Everton line up Premier League star

According to Football Insider, Everton are interested in signing Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Yves Bissouma, who has quickly fallen out of favour in Thomas Frank’s new system.

Tottenham want to sell with Bissouma, having added Joao Palhinha to their ranks this summer, but they also want to recoup as much of their £25m outlay as possible, which could prove a sticking point for the Blues given their financial constraints.

Alas, Moyes is keen, and having entered the final year of his contract down N17, it makes sense that the Malian star would move on before the window slams shut. If Everton can agree a reduced price, it could be a fantastic deal.

Transfer Focus

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

Why Everton want Yves Bissouma

Everton have already strengthened in the centre of the park this summer, having signed Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Chelsea for £28m and having added attacking midfielder Grealish (with Dibling set to sign next).

At the anchor, Idrissa Gana Gueye continues to perform with aplomb, but he’s 35, and a successor must be found. Bissouma looks the man for the job.

Once remarked for his skill as an “absolute monster” in central battles by journalist Aaron Stokes, the 28-year-old has fallen out of favour under Frank’s wing at Tottenham, but he also struggled in Ange Postecoglou’s system, starting just 16 times in the Premier League last season.

His early days in north London and indeed the time spent on the south coast with Brighton showcased his quality, and, like Grealish, he could spark a career resurgence if making the move to Merseyside and forming a part of his reshaped and rehoused Everton.

He’s hardly flawless, but Bissouma remains a crisp distributor and a tough-tackling protector of the backline.

Data from FBref reveals he ranks among the top 18% of midfielders across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for pass completion, the top 9% for tackles, the top 7% for clearances, and the top 5% for ball recoveries per 90.

And working in Moyes’ system, rooted so firmly in hard graft and unwavering defensive principles, Bissouma could rekindle his quality, as has already been shown through Grealish’s full debut on Sunday.

In fact, working together as different points in Moyes’ midfield, Bissouma and Grealish could strike a first-rate partnership, with the Spurs man using his strength and athleticism to cover plenty of ground, thus enabling the England international to release his winged feet and return to some semblance of his quality at Aston Villa, which led to him being described as “world-class” by one-time Manchester United prospect Luke Chadwick.

By covering and competing with Gueye (and potentially replacing the veteran beyond the 2025/26 season), Bissouma might just return to the kind of form that had English football in awe way back when, and giving that Grealish may yet find Everton to present a permanent home for him down the line, there’s every reason for fans to start getting excited.

Silky on the ball and strong in the duel, Grealish is a slippery customer for any opponent he comes up against, but with the added security of Bissouma in all his combativeness behind, reinforcing the centre, the fleet-footed winger might just succeed in establishing consistency.

The search for a right-back rages on, and fans will anxiously await the completion of Dibling’s move, but the signs are promising indeed for those of an Everton persuasion.

Bissouma would represent a coup, all right, but having already added Grealish to Everton’s fold, Moyes has shown that he has what it takes to bring such players over to the club and chart a course for the top end of the Premier League.

Everton star just proved he could be their new Barkley & it's not Grealish

Everton started their new life at the Hill Dickinson Stadium with a convincing 2-0 victory.

ByKelan Sarson Aug 24, 2025

Liverpool could only wonder what it would be like to sit back at the top before Jurgen Klopp replaced Brendan Rodgers way back when.

But the strong desire for greater success has since been realised, in full colour, over a sustained period of success that has returned every shape of silverware to Anfield’s trophy cabinet.

And when Arne Slot replaced the German last summer after he had ‘run out of energy’, in his own words, many thought that was it, that was the end of an illustrious period that would be remembered for years and years.

That hasn’t proved the case. Most rivals expected the Reds to fall by the wayside, or at least stumble, ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, but Liverpool are Premier League champions, deserving winners, dominant winners.

Multiple threads connect the two eras, but that all-important piece of twine, central to everything good on the red half of Merseyside across recent years, is Mohamed Salah.

And he’s set to continue his iconic journey.

Mohamed Salah's Liverpool future

Liverpool ended months of anxious speculation in April, extending Salah’s contract at Liverpool for an additional two years. His £350k-per-week deal was set to expire at the end of the 2024/25 season.

He’s no longer a spring chicken, but Salah is very much still reflecting his greatness on the field. Last term, he spearheaded Slot’s Premier League title charge, notching 47 goal contributions across the league campaign (an all-time record for a 38-game season).

His vicious blend of deadly shooting and intelligent playmaking have established him as one of the finest forwards of his generation, indeed hailed by Liverpool podcaster Lewis Aspinall as “the best right winger in Premier League history”.

Salah is now 33 years old, but he has all the tools to forge another successful season for himself and his team. With someone like Florian Wirtz, signed from Bayer Leverkusen for a British-record £116m fee, supplying him, is there really any doubt?

Moreover, Liverpool are hoping to sign a centre-forward to replace Darwin Nunez, and he could be perfect for the Egyptian King.

Liverpool hold talks for new striker

As per Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool remain interested in signing Hugo Ekitike this summer and have been in contact regarding the player, though they face stiff competition from Newcastle United.

Transfer Focus

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

Chelsea have also shown interest this summer, but their recent £60m acquisition of Joao Pedro will have tempered their desire.

The Eintracht Frankfurt striker is among the most coveted players on the market, but he’s valued at £85m, and this has dissuaded suitors from making concrete moves.

Nonetheless, if Liverpool bank sums from Nunez (with Luis Diaz attracting intrigue from Bayern Munich and Barcelona too), they will have the means and the focus to push ahead and sign a frontman who has what it takes to become a superstar.

Why Liverpool want Hugo Ekitike

Ekitike was recognised as an exciting attacking talent from his days as a fledgling on the professional stage, with talent scout Jacek Kulig saying, “he could reach world-class striker levels”.

He has demonstrated as such in the Bundesliga over the past year, scoring 22 goals and supplying 12 assists across all competitions last season. He had spent a half-season on loan with Die Adler previously, warming himself up to a senior role away from the bloatedness of Paris Saint-Germain’s fringes.

And what a decision it was to forge his own path away from the French capital. The data is certainly kind to Ekitike, for he ranked among the top 16% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues last season for goal involvements, the top 6% for shot-creating actions, the top 4% for both progressive carries and successful take-ons, and the top 20% for ball recoveries per 90, as per FBref.

That latter metric is interesting. Ekitike is a man of mobility and swiftness. He gets things done himself, scarce one to linger in wait of deliveries posted onto his doorstep.

This is especially important for the continued success of Salah, for the Liverpool legend is indeed getting on a bit, and a robust and reliable centre-forward such as Ekitike will aid him in conserving his energy for the critical moments.

The Frenchman might not be on the same prolific level as Salah, but he’s got a similarly varied approach to his attacking play, and this could bear dividends for Liverpool’s offensive fluency next season.

It’s important to remember that Ekitike isn’t the finished product yet, but then he’s already been hailed as “one of the best strikers out there” by analyst Ben Mattinson, with his progress a rising thing over the past several seasons.

He would certainly prove an upgrade on Nunez, who has been heavily linked with a move to Napoli this summer.

Goals scored

0.53

0.40

Assists

0.28

0.16

Shots taken

4.00

2.70

Shot-creating actions

3.55

2.46

Touches (att pen)

6.88

5.88

Progressive passes

1.86

2.14

Progressive carries

3.27

1.83

Successful take-ons

1.83

0.64

Ball recoveries

3.06

3.26

Tackles + interceptions

0.81

1.99

Nunez has been known for his connection with Salah, having assisted the right-winger 11 times across his Liverpool career. Can you imagine how a more refined and established forward like Ekitike would play with him, in turn providing a far superior goal threat?

Moreover, the forward is blessed with a certain instinctiveness that will allow him to latch right onto Salah’s inventive passes, his whipped crosses and deft lay-offs.

This “incredible” young prospect, as described by teammate Rasmus Kristensen, is on the fast track to the top of the game, and Liverpool must do all they can to ensure he winds up at Anfield this summer.

He might even be the perfect partner for Salah over the next couple of years, bringing an energy and dynamism to feed off the 33-year-old’s technical brilliance.

Huijsen 2.0: Liverpool enquire to sign one of the 'most complete teen CBs'

Liverpool could be set to target their next centre-back sensation, in the mould of Dean Huijsen

ByRobbie Walls Jul 10, 2025

Everton manager David Moyes faces a few challenges this summer, most notably set to lose a number of players, experienced ones at that, with Michael Keane and Dominic Calvert-Lewin out of contract at the end of this month.

With both looking likely to depart, Moyes will need to bring in replacements to bolster his defensive and attacking options.

Jack Grealish could reportedly head to the Toffees, although his wage demands and asking price may deter the Merseyside club.

Another player who Moyes is keen on is Villarreal star Thierno Barry, and he could strengthen Everton’s frontline.

The club are also considering a move for another forward, however, and he could be an even better signing than Barry.

Everton considering move for Barry upgrade

Much will depend on the money that Moyes has available to him this summer. With Profit and Sustainability regulations to be mindful of, the manager will have to spend wisely.

According to the Liverpool Echo, Everton are now considering making a move for Stuttgart forward Nick Woltemade in a bid to bolster their attack.

The Bundesliga striker would be available for a transfer fee of £42m. Whether this is in Moyes’ budget remains to be seen.

He is exactly what the club needs, however. Everton finished the 2024/25 Premier League season with just 42 goals scored, the lowest of any team outside the relegation zone.

As such, a move for Woltemade could be vital if Moyes aims to get his team scoring more next term.

How Nick Woltemade compares to Thierno Barry

Barry scored 16 goals for Villarreal last season, having made the move from FC Basel in the summer. He is also capable of playing out on the right wing, a position which Moyes is desperate to strengthen in the summer.

While the Frenchman would be an excellent signing, pursuing Woltemade is perhaps the better idea.

In their respective domestic leagues last season, the German not only registered a better shots on target percentage (50% vs 36%) than Barry, but he also recorded more shots on target per 90 (1.28 vs 1.09) and registered way more shot-creating actions (4.38 vs 1.78) than the versatile Frenchman.

Woltemade also recorded a 25% goal conversion rate in the Bundesliga last term, whereas Barry’s was only 15% in La Liga.

Transfer Focus

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

The German also created more big chances (eight vs seven) and succeeded with more dribbles (1.1 vs 0.5) domestically.

These statistics point towards Woltemade being the most attractive signing for Moyes this summer.

Metric

Barry

Woltemade

Goals

11

12

Assists

4

2

Big chances created

7

8

Key passes per game

0.7

1.3

Shots per game

2.1

1.8

Scoring frequency (minutes)

211

136

Hailed by U23 scout Antonio Mango as “exceptional” following a stunning season for Stuttgart, Moyes would be signing a player with a bright future indeed.

Everton aren’t his only suitors, however, and this could make life difficult for the manager as he eyes up a swoop.

He could be an incredible signing and would prove that the Toffees mean business next season in the Premier League.

The next few weeks will be interesting to say the least. Watch this space, Everton fans.

Everton willing to pay large fee to sign star with over 100 PL appearances

The Toffees could turn to a familiar face…

BySean Markus Clifford Jun 13, 2025

Aston Villa are in a position where they may need to sell players to meet the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules and there is plenty of contention surrounding their situation from fans, pundits and journalists alike.

Aston Villa's PSR situation and who may leave the club this summer

In short, Aston Villa are one of the Premier League’s most at-risk clubs with PSR heading towards the deadline on June 30th. Per The Athletic’s projection, they can only lose £15 million in 2024/25 to remain within regulatory boundaries.

Unai Emery’s men have recorded a pre-tax loss of £206.2 million in the last two years, which is the highest deficit across the top-flight in that time and leaves the Birmingham-based outfit in danger of punishment.

Big money sales such as Jhon Duran leaving for Al Nassr and Leon Bailey’s anticipated move to Saudi Arabian outfit Neom SC have left hope that the Villans can evade any form of penalty.

However, they are teetering on the brink and their failure to qualify for Champions League football ended up being a massive setback, especially when Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio’s expensive loan deals formed part of their bid to secure a place despite already treading water in their efforts to balance the books.

There have been suggestions that Aston Villa could sell stakes in their women’s team to make ends meet, an option that remains active following a failed bill to cancel that practice after Chelsea flipped £90 million in losses to a £128 million profit in 2024.

Aston Villa now seriously interested in signing "aggressive" 13-goal rival

He could be on the move.

ByTom Cunningham Jun 5, 2025

Losing a maximum of £105 million over three rolling years is the limit for Premier League clubs in order to comply. Still, not everyone is happy at the rules that their clubs have to abide by to evade sanctions.

Journalist fumes at Aston Villa PSR latest

Taking to social media platform X, iNews correspondent Mark Douglas vented his frustration at Aston Villa’s need to sell and made the point that Newcastle United have suffered a similar fate in their efforts to progress as a club.

Admittedly, PSR has become a controversial topic among football fans for a number of reasons, with some feeling that the traditional ‘Big Six’ clubs are protected more than others due to the ease in making ‘pure profit’ sales or by filing via subsidiaries of their PLC’s entity.

Regulation is critical to promote fairness, though there are clear elements in the current system that leave a lot to be desired. Aston Villa find themselves in a frustrating situation and will need to meticulously ensure they don’t fall foul of the authorities.

Others will argue their wage to revenue ratio is a problem, brought on by decisions such as paying £227,500 of Marcus Rashford’s salary weekly during his stay. Either way, the rise of PSR over the last few years has become a contentious issue and continues to limit the progression of those attempting to challenge the traditional order.

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has opened talks to sign a “commanding” defender, who’s now a top defensive target for the summer transfer window, according to a report.

Gunners set sights on new centre-back amid Saliba concerns

The Gunners’ centre-back partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba has received widespread acclaim over the past few seasons, with Jamie Carragher saying: “As a partnership, him and Gabriel is as good as anything in the Premier League.

“I think Saliba is the better player but Gabriel is the better leader, and Saliba needs to bring that to his game if he wants to get to the levels we talk about with Virgil van Dijk.

“Saliba needs Gabriel. Since Gabriel has come out of the team, that’s not the same Saliba I’m watching.”

Best ST since Auba: Arsenal agree personal terms for £67m "monster"

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is desperate to sign a new striker this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 31, 2025

It has recently been revealed the Brazilian defender is now in advanced talks over a new deal to remain at the Emirates Stadium, but with Real Madrid expressing an interest in Saliba, it could be a wise idea to bring in a new centre-back this summer.

According to a report from Football Transfers, that is exactly what the north Londoners are planning to do, having now moved ahead of Manchester United in the race for Parma defender Giovanni Leoni.

Such is Arsenal’s level of interest in Leoni, he has now been identified as one of their top defensive targets for the summer transfer window, with sporting director Berta leading talks over a deal to bring the 18-year-old to north London.

Juventus and Inter Milan are also in the race for the teenager, who joined Parma in a deal amounting to €8m (£7m) last summer, which has proven to be a savvy investment, given that he has emerged as a key player for the Italian side.

"Commanding" Leoni impressing for Parma

At the start of the 2024-25 Serie A campaign, the centre-back found game time difficult to come by, but he managed to establish himself as a key player during the second half of the season, which is an impressive feat at such a young age.

Football scout Ben Mattinson has also been left impressed by the Italian defender, describing his aerial dominance and duel prowess as “commanding”, while also stating the youngster is “destined” to play for a top club.

Leoni is yet to prove himself over a sustained period of time, but his emergence as a first-team player at such a young age can only be a good sign, and the Parma ace could be a solid addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad.

That said, there are a number of other interesting young defenders on the shortlist for Arsenal, and Arteta may even decide against bringing in a new centre-back, given that Gabriel and Saliba are arguably almost undroppable when fit.

Target

Current club

Potential cost

Jorrel Hato

Ajax

£40m

Nathan Collins

Brentford

£23m

Cristhian Mosquera

Valencia

£17m

The first of two transfer windows this summer is now open, with Chelsea set to be very active before the initial 10th June deadline.

According to a report by David Ornstein of The Athletic, Liam Delap is on the cusp of joining Chelsea, noting that personal terms have been agreed and that a medical will take place on Monday, with the Blues having agreed to pay his £30m release clause.

The 22-year-old will therefore be eligible to make his debut in just a couple of weeks time, given that Chelsea commence their FIFA Club World Cup campaign against Los Angeles FC in Atlanta on 16 June.

However, could the Blues also be showcasing another new striker by the time that clash at Mercedes-Benz Stadium rolls around?

Chelsea's search for another striker

According to widespread reports, including by the Daily Post in Nigeria, Victor Osimhen’s entourage are ‘working’ on a deal to get the striker to Chelsea 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.

They relay quotes from Peter Okoye, one of Osimhen’s close associates, who said that last summer, both he and former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel “made every effort to secure the signing of Victor Osimhen for Chelsea”.

Well, a year on, it’s revealed that they “remain steadfast” in their pursuit and “will continue efforts this summer.”

Now that the season is over, the 26-year-old is once again a Napoli player, having scored 76 goals in 133 appearances for I Partenopei, the Capocannoniere (top-scorer) in Serie A in the 2022/23 season, firing the club to their first Scudetto for 33 years.

Last summer, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis placed a €130m (around £110m) price tag on Osimhen, hoping to create some sort of bidding war, but after no concrete offers were made by the time the vast majority of European windows had shut, the Nigerian striker spent last season on loan at Turkish Süper Lig side Galatasaray.

Now, reports believe he would be ‘available for £60m’, so could he soon be swapping the Bosphorus for the King’s Road?

How Victor Osimhen would improve Chelsea

It is pretty difficult to dispute the fact that Osimhen is one of the best centre-forwards on the planet.

During his one season with Galatasaray, he scored 37 goals in just 41 appearances, thereby averaging a goal every 87 minutes.

26 of these came in the Süper Lig which, according to Global Football Rankings, is the 18th strongest league in the world, firing the İstanbul giants to a record-extending 25th title, while he also netted six times in seven Europa League appearances, including bagging a brace during a victory over Tottenham in November.

Youssef Maaoui of Talent Football Scout praises Osimhen’s athleticism, describing him as a ‘fast and imposing striker’ who possesses ‘elite goal-scoring instincts’, making him ‘one of the most exciting and unique talents’ in world football.

Meantime, Jack Chippendale of Total Football Analysis outlines how the Nigerian was the ‘focal point’ of Galatasaray’s attack, allowing him to take a high volume of shots, while journalist Paolo Esposito simply labelled him “superhuman”.

So, how does Osimhen compare to potential future teammate Delap?

Appearances

41

40

Minutes

3,236

2,670

Goals

37

12

Assists

8

2

Shots per 90

5.62

2.28

Shots on target %

42.7%

43.3%

Big chances missed

43

10

Big chances created

12

3

Shot-creating actions

25

62

% of aerials duels won

63.6%

42.6%

Touches per 90

29

28

% of touches in opposition box

37%

13%

Average Sofascore rating

7.72

6.85

First things first when comparing these two players, it has to be noted that Osimhen was playing for the dominant team at a lower level this season, while Delap was playing for a relegated Premier League outfit, skewing the data of both somewhat.

Nevertheless, even with that caveat, we can still learn plenty from the data.

What the numbers underline is that neither get overly involved in build-up play, while Osimhen’s statistic of 5.62 shots per 90 is astronomically high, taking an average of 7.32 shots per 90 in this season’s Europa League, almost three more than anybody else.

Also, the fact that the Nigerian records over a third of his touches in the opposition penalty area is further evidence that he is a proper penalty box poacher, even if his tally of 43 big chances missed proves there is room for improvement.

Nevertheless, as outlined by Liam Twomey of the Athletic, a world-class number nine is what Chelsea need to reach the next level, and Osimhen, more than the soon-to-arrive Delap, has all the attributes to be just that. He’s a true elite striker.

Big Sancho upgrade: Chelsea step up move for 'one of the world's best'

Chelsea could be ready to land an upgrade on Jadon Sancho this summer

1 ByRobbie Walls Jun 1, 2025

Nottingham Forest and Evangelos Marinakis could now imminently swoop to hijack Inter Milan’s deal for an in-form forward, according to reports in the last 48 hours.

Nottingham Forest in Champions League race as crucial summer looms

Despite wins for both Chelsea and Aston Villa on Friday night, which dealt a blow to Nuno Espirito Santo and their chances of a top-five finish, Forest remain outside contenders to qualify for next season’s Champions League draw.

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A win against West Ham on Sunday is absolutely non-negotiable, but three points from their clash with the Hammers will set up a mouth-watering final day tie at home to Chelsea, where victory over Enzo Maresca’s side could pay dividends if results elsewhere go Nuno’s way.

2. Arsenal

68

3. Newcastle United

66

4. Chelsea

66

5. Aston Villa

66

6. Man City

65

7. Nottingham Forest

62

Their race for Europe will have a pivotal knock-on effect when it comes to their summer recruitment plans, as the financial windfalls received from Champions League qualification could help Forest splash the cash without having to worry so much about FFP and PSR.

“FFP and PSR plays a big part in the daily talk at Nottingham Forest,” said journalist Pete O’Rourke to Football Insider this week.

“Without Champions League football, it could be difficult for them to hold on to their best players. If somebody comes in with a big bid, and they’re not in the Champions League, it’s going to be very difficult for Nottingham Forest.

“They’ve got an owner who is financially sustainable and very willing to compete at the top. If players like Morgan Gibbs-White and Murillo were to leave the club, their recruitment is going to have to be good, and they’re going to have to pump some money in.

“They’ve got to toe the line with FFP and PSR rules. Gibbs-White may just fall foul of that, and he has been hand-picked by bigger and better clubs across Europe, not just in England.”

Nottingham Forest could "soon" move for Marseille star Luis Henrique

Amid the threat of a sell-to-buy summer, Marinakis and co are on the hunt for astute, quality potential new additions, and Marseille forward Luis Henrique certainly falls into that bracket.

The Brazilian has racked up nine goals and 10 assists under Roberto De Zerbi this season, and it is believed he’d cost around £25 million, which is affordable from the perspective of a Premier League side.

While Inter Milan have been in talks with Marseille over a move, the Champions League finalists are currently falling below Henrique’s price tag in terms of offers, leaving the door open for Forest.

That is according to Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna, who reported on X that Forest could “soon” move for Henrique and hijack Inter’s deal.

Called a “complete player” by De Zerbi, the 23-year-old Henrique is exactly the calibre of star required by Forest to keep competing at the very top.

In a major boost for those at the City Ground, one Nottingham Forest target is now reportedly keen to complete a move this summer with Evangelos Marinakis also pushing to get a deal done.

Nottingham Forest's UCL run-in

Whilst one win in their last five Premier League games should ignite plenty of concern around the City Ground, Forest’s fate is still in their own hands with three big fixtures left to play. After drawing against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Monday, Nuno Espirito Santo’s side sit sixth and two points adrift of Chelsea in the final Champions League place, who they face on the final day.

Nuno recently had his say on his side’s performance against Crystal Palace whilst instantly looking ahead to the Leicester City game.

The Forest boss said: “It was very important to react, it was a big blow to go behind because we were in a tough position when we conceded the penalty but the reaction of the boys was amazing and we should be proud of that. We are delighted to be in the fight. Let’s go game by game now starting with Leicester at The City Ground.”

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The impact that Champions League qualification would have both on and off the pitch cannot be overstated, especially as those at the City Ground go in pursuit of one particular target.

Yilmaz now keen on Nottingham Forest move

According to Turkish outlet Sabah, Baris Alper Yilmaz is now keen on a move to Nottingham Forest and Evangelos Marinakis is pushing to complete a deal ahead of this summer. The winger was at the centre of Forest’s interest in January but failed to swap Galatasaray for the City Ground. Now, six months on, Forest could match his price-tag reportedly worth over €30m (£26m).

Forest’s interest should come as no surprise either. The Turkey international has enjoyed an excellent campaign at Galatasaray – scoring 12 goals and assisting a further 10 in all competitions. The difference that another outlet would offer Forest must be noted amid Chris Wood’s recent struggles too. Without the New Zealand forward’s clinical form to turn towards, the Reds have struggled in the decisive moments.

What’s more, Yilmaz has already earned an impressive fan in the Premier League in the form of Virgil van Dijk. The Liverpool captain praised the winger after the Netherlands squared off against Turkey at the Euros last summer, telling reporters: “Baris Alper Yilmaz was running constantly. He was running elusive.

“It was difficult for every defender. He made it very hard for us. He couldn’t score a goal though. If we were to describe him in any way, he is a really important player.”

Now reportedly keen on a move to Forest, Yilmaz could finally be on his way to the Premier League and the City Ground in the coming months.

Bruno Fernandes is the obvious recent example of a Manchester United signing who hit the ground running at Old Trafford, although just over a decade ago, it was Robin van Persie who proved an instant hit under Sir Alex Ferguson.

Having been stung on the final day of the 2011/12 campaign, Fergie – who was entering what would prove to be his final season in charge of United – was hellbent on wrestling back the title, thus identifying the Dutchman as the potential difference-maker in the race for Premier League glory.

A £24m fee was agreed to controversially pluck the experienced striker – then 29 – from rivals Arsenal, with the player himself memorably stating at the time that the boy inside of him was “screaming for United”.

Right from the off, the club’s new number 20 looked set to be the man to lead the Red Devils to a 20th league title, scoring the first of his 26 top-flight goals that season on his home debut against Swansea City.

While the following two years may have been a disappointment on an individual and collective basis, in the wake of Ferguson’s retirement, Van Persie still managed to depart in 2015 with a healthy record of 58 goals in just 105 games in all competitions.

Season

Player

Goals

2024/25*

Bruno Fernandes

8

2023/24

Bruno Fernandes & Rasmus Hojlund

10

2022/23

Marcus Rashford

17

2021/22

Cristiano Ronaldo

18

2020/21

Bruno Fernandes

18

2019/20

Marcus Rashford & Anthony Martial

17

2018/19

Paul Pogba

13

2017/18

Romelu Lukaku

16

2016/17

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

17

2015/16

Anthony Martial

11

2014/15

Wayne Rooney

12

2013/14

Wayne Rooney

17

2012/13

Robin van Persie

26

How Ruben Amorim could do with a player of that clinical ilk now…

Latest on Man Utd's striker search

It remains to be seen just which marquee centre-forward will be brought in to Old Trafford this summer, with a cut-price move for Napoli’s Victor Osimhen having been touted, while there were also claims that an agreement was close for Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres.

Asked about his former talisman ahead of Thursday’s meeting with Athletic Bilbao, Amorim claimed that he had not spoken to the prolific Swede, while also outlining that any player who was merely chasing Champions League football would not end up at United.

Elsewhere, meanwhile, talk is rife over a move for Ipswich Town’s £30m-rated marksman, Liam Delap, albeit with GIVEMESPORT outlining that the Manchester side are considering alternatives to the 22-year-old, should a move for the Englishman prove too difficult.

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Indeed, the report suggests that Bayer Leverkusen’s Patrik Schick has emerged as something of a wildcard option in reserve, with United said to be considering engaging in talks with the Bundesliga side, if they do decide to turn their attention away from Delap.

In the case of Schick, the Czech striker is viewed as an ‘attainable alternative’ for Amorim and co, not least considering that he could have a price tag of ‘just’ £34m this summer.

With a healthy goal return to his name too this season, a left-field move for the 29-year-old may certainly have its merits.

Why Man Utd could be targeting the next Van Persie

Figures such as Gyokeres and Osimhen may be the names on everyone’s lips heading into yet another pivotal window for the Red Devils, although it would be foolish to overlook the impact that Schick can make.

Described as “a proven goalscorer” by Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley – who also tipped him to be an “[Alexander] Isak replacement” for Newcastle United – the 6 foot 3 ace has scored 25 goals in all competitions this term, including a standout total of 19 Bundesliga goals thus far.

That follows on from the Prague native’s vital role in Leverkusen’s unbeaten domestic season under Xabi Alonso in 2023/24, in which the towering striker scored 13 times despite only starting 18 games, amid early struggles due to injury.

A player who now boasts 79 goals in 165 games for the German outfit, Schick has three games remaining to break the 20-goal barrier in the league. As alluded to in the prior table, now player has scored 20 top-flight goals in a season for United since Van Persie.

Not only are both men prolific finishers in front of goal, but they are also stylistically similar as left-footers, with Schick mirroring the former Netherlands star with his quality on the volley, as indicated with his stunner for Leverkusen back in 2020.

Van Persie famously sealed the title for Ferguson and co with that volley from range against Aston Villa in April 2013, having latched onto Wayne Rooney’s lofted pass before rifling home in expert fashion.

Like mentioned with his 2020 strike for his club, Schick is also no stranger to the spectacular, having also memorably scored from just inside the opposition half for his country against Scotland at Euro 2020.

In a similar mould to Van Persie too, the former Roma man is simply an out-and-out poacher and an ‘old fashioned number nine’ – as remarked by pundit Chris Sutton – with 17 of his 19 league goals coming inside the penalty area in 2024/25.

A player who also ranks in the top 1% of strikers in Europe’s top five leagues for non-penalty goals per 90, Schick may represent the ruthless finisher that Amorim desperately needs in order to replace the struggling Rasmus Hojlund.

Yes, he may represent something of a short-term fix due to his age, much like Van Persie, although if the £34m man can spearhead United to a dramatic improvement next term, then such a decision could prove a masterstroke.

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