All posts by z3u9t.icu

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.”

Nottingham Forest now want to sign £29m forward with 14 goals in 24/25

Nottingham Forest are among the Premier League teams chasing a forward from Spain.

ByBrett Worthington May 7, 2025

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.

Transfer Focus

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

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.

Like prime Rashford: Man Utd keen to sign "one of the best STs out there"

Man Utd could be looking to sign a player with shades of Marcus Rashford…

ByRobbie Walls Apr 30, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur are now planning to submit an opening offer for an “intelligent” midfielder, who has a release clause of €80m (£69m), according to a report.

Spurs pursuing midfielder amid Bissouma uncertainty

Yves Bissouma has fallen down the pecking order this season, with the midfielder remaining on the bench throughout Monday night’s 2-1 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest, and there have been suggestions Tottenham could look to cash-in this summer.

The same report details that Rodrigo Bentancur’s future may also be in doubt, given that Ange Postecoglou is unhappy with his options in the middle of the park, which means at least one new midfielder may need to be brought.

Versatile Manchester City gem Nico O’Reilly is one of the latest players to be shortlisted, although it may be difficult to prise the youngster away from the reigning Premier League champions, and there are other options in mind.

Tottenham very keen on "sensational" forward as Levy prepares £50m+ bid

Spurs have been closely monitoring an attacker, and they now look set to launch a transfer swoop.

ByDominic Lund Apr 21, 2025

Como’s Nico Paz and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Larsson are also well-liked, with the latter player now considering a move to north London, despite interest from Man City, in what could be viewed as a boost for Spurs.

Tottenham are clearly looking at options from far and wide, with a report from Caught Offside revealing they have now joined the race for Sporting CP’s Morten Hjulmand, who is attracting attention due to his technical and leadership skills.

Manchester United and Arsenal are also keen on Hjulmand, and the Dane has a €80m (£69m) release clause in his contract, although Sporting may consider bids of €50m – €60m (£43m – £52m) this summer, at which point they could look to cash-in.

Spurs are now looking to submit an opening offer below the 25-year-old’s release clause, as they continue to run the rule over potential replacements for Bissouma.

Tottenham Hotspur’s upcoming fixtures

Date

Liverpool (a)

April 27th

Bodo/Glimt (h)

May 1st

West Ham United (a)

May 4th

Bodo/Glimt (a)

May 8th

Crystal Palace (h)

May 11th

"Intelligent" Hjulmand impressing in Portugal

Tottenham’s hopes of reaching next season’s Champions League were boosted after booking their place in the Europa League semi-final last week, and scout Ben Mattinson believes the Sporting maestro is capable of playing as a 6 or 8 or a side in Europe’s elite competition.

Not only that, but Mattinson describes the central midfielder as “defensively intelligent” and capable of reading the game to a “high level”, which is underlined by the number of tackles and interceptions he made in the Champions League this season.

The Denmark international has been a key player for title-chasing Sporting CP this season, showcasing his leadership abilities by captaining the Portuguese side, and his defensive competence suggests he could be a solid signing for Tottenham.

Of course, it is by no means a guarantee that Hjulmand would be able to make the step-up to the Premier League, but his displays for Sporting in the Champions League indicate he is capable of performing at the highest level.

Regardless of whether Chelsea qualify for the Champions League next season, this summer is huge for Enzo Maresca if he is to continue his progression in the role.

The Italian joined from Leicester City back in June 2024, but has still had his doubters despite the possibility of a top five finish in the Premier League in the next few weeks.

The hierarchy may once again need to get the chequebook out during the off-season, with it being reported that a striker is top of their shopping list.

Such a decision is no surprise given their hunt for a new talisman over the previous couple of windows since the 45-year-old’s appointment nearly 12 months ago.

However, another position has emerged as an area for improvement during the upcoming window, with one player already appearing on their radar once again.

The latest on Chelsea’s hunt for a new centre-back

Over the last couple of days, it emerged that Chelsea were back in the race for Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi after previously wanting to sign him in January.

The 24-year-old was once on the books of the Blues, but sold him to the Eagles for £18m in 2021 – a decision that looks to be a huge mistake given their interest in his signature.

It was also reported that the club are willing to part ways with either Trevoh Chalobah or Tosin Adarabioyo to raise funds to secure a return for the England international.

However, he’s not the only centre-back to emerge on their radar, with Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen the latest star touted with a switch to Stamford Bridge.

The Blues aren’t alone in their hunt for his signature, with Liverpool, Arsenal and Real Madrid also in the race to land the Spanish international during the off-season.

According to Simon Phillips, the Blues have held another round of positive talks with his representatives, advancing a deal that could see them trigger his £50m release clause in the summer.

Why the £50m star would be a better signing than Guehi

Guehi’s rise away from his boyhood club has been nothing short of sensational, exceeding beyond all imagination during his near four-year spell at Selhurst Park.

The 24-year-old has taken the responsibility of taking the captain’s armband under Oliver Glasner’s guidance, with his subsequent showings cementing his place in the England national team setup.

He was a key member of Gareth Southgate’s side at Euro 2024, missing just one game and starting in the 2-1 final defeat against Spain back in July of last year.

However, despite his glittering rise to stardom, fellow transfer target Huijsen would undoubtedly be a better signing given the fact he’s five years younger, whilst also producing numerous better stats in the Premier League throughout 2024/25.

The Spaniard, who’s been labelled “world-class” by one analyst, has registered more progressive carries and completed more of his passes – highlighting his excellent ability with the ball at his feet.

Games played

26

30

Goals & assists

3

5

Progressive carries

1.4

0.7

Progressive passes

4.3

4.1

Pass accuracy

84%

83%

Tackles won

1.1

0.9

Interceptions made

2.1

0.7

Aerials won

60%

58%

He’s also dominated defensively, winning more tackles per 90 and making more interceptions per game – offering Maresca that added defensive quality he’s desperately desired.

Huijsen has managed to thrive in the air too, winning more of his aerial battles to date, having the potential to improve further given his tender age.

Whilst £50m may appear to be a huge fee for a 19-year-old, it’s evident from the stats he’s produced this campaign that he possesses serious quality, such that it is way beyond his teenage years.

Elite-level defenders are extremely hard to come by in the modern game, with Huijsen the perfect player to solve their issues at the back, ending a chance of a fairytale reunion with Guehi in the process.

Best signing since Palmer: Chelsea now favourites to sign £85m "diamond"

Chelsea can seal their best signing since Palmer with this “English diamond”

ByConnor Holden Apr 17, 2025

If it wasn’t already evident, Saturday’s 1-1 draw away to Everton potentially proved the final nail in the coffin for Arsenal’s title hopes, with the Gunners slipping to their 11th Premier League draw of the campaign at Goodison Park.

With the gap now at 11 points – and with leaders Liverpool in action on Sunday afternoon – all hope looks to be lost for Mikel Arteta’s side. Always the bridesmaid, never the bride.

The north Londoners will rightly point to further controversy surrounding officiating following the bizarre decision to penalise Myles Lewis-Skelly for a foul on Jack Harrison, although the injury-hit visitors will be ruing their failure to kill the game off once again.

Indeed, as noted by Opta, the trip to Merseyside represented the seventh time this season that Arteta’s men have been drawn a game despite taking the lead – the most of any team in the division – with even the return of Bukayo Saka failing to provide the desired effect on this occasion.

The Emirates outfit will point to the absence of Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz amid those goalscoring woes, albeit with the stricken pair having scored just 12 league goals between them this term, it is evident that a new centre-forward remains the priority this summer.

Latest on Arsenal's search for a striker

The hope will be that signing a striker will prove the difference for the Gunners next term, albeit it is not guaranteed that such a move will help to end the lengthy wait for league glory, with Liverpool, for instance, looking set to romp to glory despite lacking a prolific, consistent number nine.

That said, having failed to add a new marksman since the signing of Jesus back in the summer of 2022, the striking berth remains the focus this summer, with rumours already rife regarding a move for Sporting CP sensation, Viktor Gyokeres.

The towering Swede isn’t the only figure on Arsenal’s shortlist, however, with Anfield Watch reporting that the north Londoners are among the clubs showing an interest in Eintracht Frankfurt starlet, Hugo Ekitike.

Transfer Focus

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

As per the report, while it is Liverpool who are working on a deal for the 22-year-old, both the Gunners and Manchester United have also held talks with the Frenchman’s representatives, with those negotiations said to have been ‘positive’.

As such, the suggestion is that all three Premier League sides will be battling for the in-form striker’s signature this summer, with Frankfurt said to be willing to cash in for a fee of around £68m.

If Arsenal are to win that race over the coming months, there would certainly be shades of Nicolas Anelka about that exciting deal.

Why Arsenal could be targeting the next Anelka

It is hard to ignore Thierry Henry when discussing French strikers who ripped up in north London, yet before the club’s record scorer, there was Anelka, with the now-retired marksman arriving as a 17-year-old back in 1997, before going on to win the PFA Young Player of the Year award in that double-winning campaign.

While far younger than Ekitike currently is, Anelka mirrors his compatriot in having been schooled by Paris Saint-Germain for a time, with the ex-Chelsea man rising up through the club’s youth ranks before making his first-team debut for the Ligue 1 side in 1996.

As for Ekitike, the 6 foot 3 ace started life on the books at Reims, albeit before then moving to PSG on an initial loan deal in 2022, where he scored just four times in 33 games in all competitions.

Games

27

Goals

13

Scoring frequency

159mins

Big chances missed

12

Assists

4

Big chances created

7

Key passes*

1.4

Pass accuracy*

77%

Successful dribbles*

1.6

It has taken a move to Germany for the youngster to ignite his career, although on recent evidence, he is proving himself to be “one of the strikers out there”, in the words of analyst Ben Mattinson, with Ekitike simply “ready to explode”.

In 56 games for the Bundesliga side, Ekitike has netted 23 goals and registered a further ten assists, mirroring Anelka in his ability to operate as an out and out centre-forward, or in a left-wing berth.

Like Anelka at the time – who Arsene Wenger described as his “biggest find” during his early years at Highbury – the Frankfurt talisman hasn’t yet reached the status of a household name, although with 19 goals to his name this season, he certainly will do soon.

Not only a clinical finisher, what also sets Ekitike apart is his silky ability in possession, as shown by the fact he ranks among the top 9% of European strikers for progressive carries, as well as in the top 3% for successful take-ons per 90.

Like Anelka – who former teammate Martin Keown claimed could “destroy defences” – the former Reims man boasts that perfect blend of speed and trickery, making him a frightening prospect at the top end of the pitch.

While at £68m, Ekitike certainly won’t come cheap, he could represent the perfect, long-term investment for Arteta and co – as long as he sticks around for longer than Anelka did, that is.

Arsenal see "ridiculously good" striker bargain as June 10th deadline mooted

The Gunners think he’s “excellent value”.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 5, 2025

Celtic’s interim head coach Martin O’Neill has confirmed that Wednesday night’s clash with Dundee at Parkhead will be his final match in the dugout for the Scottish giants.

The experienced manager stepped in after Brendan Rodgers resigned at the end of October and has won six of his seven matches in all competitions, per Transfermarkt, to date.

Columbus Crew boss Wilfried Nancy will then take over as the permanent successor to Brendan Rodgers and will face a baptism of fire at the weekend against league leaders Hearts in the Scottish Premiership.

The French boss will be watching on from afar for the clash this evening and will have one last chance to assess the players who will soon be at his disposal before being tasked with organising them in training.

O’Neill will also be keen for his last game to be a memorable one, leaving Nancy with the team in the best possible position, by claiming all three points against Dundee.

The experienced boss may look to make some changes to his starting line-up from the side that beat Hibernian 2-1 at Easter Road on Sunday in order to secure the win this evening.

The Celtic players who could be dropped against Dundee

Football FanCast have already suggested that right-sided winger Luke McCowan should be dropped from the team after he failed to impress against Hibs at the weekend, with no shots on target or ‘big chances’ created, per Sofascore.

The former Dundee man has been tasked with filling in out wide in recent games, due to the lack of natural options in that position, but he was ineffective last time out, which could provide Benjamin Nygren with a chance to play in that role.

On the other side of the pitch, Marcelo Saracchi could make way for Kieran Tierney at left-back, as the two defenders have shared the workload so far this season in the Premiership.

Appearances

7

10

Starts

6

6

Minutes

405

609

Big chances created

2

2

Assists

1

2

As you can see in the statistics above, they have both started six league games this term, and it could be Tierney’s time to start this evening after coming off the bench against Hibs.

Another player who could be dropped from the starting line-up, alongside Saracchi and McCowan, is left-sided attacker Hyun-jun Yang, who played a part in Arne Engels’ goal with a deflected cross for the Belgian on Sunday.

Aside from that deflected cross, the South Korean forward offered little to the side in or out of possession on the left flank. Per Sofascore, he played 86 minutes without registering a key pass, a ‘big chance’ created, or a shot on target, as his part in Engels’ goal did not count as an assist.

The 23-year-old star, who scored against Feyenoord last week in the Europa League, also lost 75% (3/4) of his duels throughout the game, per Sofascore, which shows that he was not strong enough in his physical battles.

With this in mind, and the fact that they have Hearts to play on Sunday, O’Neill should ruthlessly ditch Yang from the starting line-up to provide another player with an opportunity to impress.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Dropping the South Korea international could allow the experienced boss to finally unleash rarely-seen winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha on the left flank against Dundee tonight.

Why Celtic should unleash Michel-Ange Balikwisha

The Belgian forward played 59 minutes across three substitute appearances in O’Neill’s first three games in charge, but has been an unused substitute for the last four matches in all competitions.

We are not privy to what goes on behind the scenes, in training and in tactical meetings, and the experienced boss will have his reasons for not giving Balikwisha much game time in recent weeks.

However, in a three-game week, this clash with Dundee ahead of the meeting with Hearts on Sunday provides the manager with a chance to give the summer signing from Royal Antwerp a start for the first time.

In fact, Balikwisha has not started a game for Celtic since the 2-1 win over Kilmarnock away from home in September under Rodgers, per Sofascore, which means that the winger has not had many opportunities to showcase his quality.

Hibernian

0

St Mirren

0

Kilmarnock

0

Falkirk

29

Hearts

30

Dundee

26

Motherwell

12

Hibernian

16

Kilmarnock

58

Rangers

65

As you can see in the table above, the Celtic winger started his first two games in the Premiership against Rangers and Kilmarnock, after signing from Royal Antwerp, but has not gotten a look-in since then.

There is more to come from Balikwisha in a Celtic shirt because his form for Royal Antwerp in Belgium suggests that he does have the potential to carry a threat at the top end of the pitch.

Per Transfermarkt, the 24-year-old wing wizard scored 30 goals and provided 17 assists in 145 matches for Antwerp, yet he has only managed two assists and no goals in 12 outings in all competitions for the Hoops.

The only way he will improve and adapt to Scottish football, though, is by playing matches and getting used to the intensity and physicality of the division, which he cannot do from the bench.

That is why O’Neill should give Balikwisha a rare opportunity to start against Dundee as a parting gift to Nancy, as it would provide the winger with another opportunity to develop as a Celtic player ahead of a fresh page under the next manager.

Therefore, the interim manager should ruthlessly drop and rest Yang from the starting line-up this evening, bringing the rarely-seen Belgian in to give him a chance to stake a claim for a place in the side moving forward.

Nancy could bin Celtic star who's been the biggest winner of O'Neill's reign

Incoming Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy could drop this star who has been the biggest winner of Martin O’Neill’s reign.

1 ByDan Emery Dec 2, 2025

Despite a few poor results, this season is starting to shape up nicely for Chelsea.

Enzo Maresca’s side are currently second in the Premier League and have the chance to cut the gap to Arsenal to just three points when they play them on Sunday.

However, for the West Londoners to have any chance of beating the high-flying Gunners, they’ll need to have their shooting boots on, and Liam Delap will have to show why the club signed him in the summer.

However, Chelsea might already be having second thoughts about the Englishman, as reports are linking them to another exciting young striker, someone with shades of Didier Drogba in their game.

Chelsea target Delap upgrade

Given Chelsea’s propensity to spend big in the transfer window, it’s not been much of a surprise to see reports already linking them with a host of talented players ahead of the January window.

Transfer Focus

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

For example, Athletic Bilbao’s incredibly exciting Nico Williams has been touted for a £62m move to Stamford Bridge, and Nottingham Forest’s Murillo has also been heavily linked.

However, as talented as these two internationals are, neither can be compared to Drogba, nor would they be a threat to Delap’s place in the team, unlike Robinio Vaz.

Yes, according to a recent report from Caught Offside, Chelsea are one of a few teams interested in the exciting French talent.

In fact, the report has revealed that the Blues have already established contact with Marseille over a possible move that could cost as much as €30m, about £26m.

However, sides like Arsenal, Borussia Dortmund, Sevilla and Napoli are also said to be interested in the youngster.

It could therefore be a costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Vaz’s ability and potential, it’s one Chelsea should fight for, especially as he could be an upgrade on Delap and has shades of Drogba in his game.

How Vaz compares to Delap and Drogba

Okay, so before looking at how Vaz compares to Delap, let’s examine the shades of Drogba in his game and this potential move.

The first and most significant would be that, so long as this transfer happens, the youngster would be following in the legendary striker’s footsteps, who moved from Marseille to Chelsea in 2004.

Another trait he appears to share with the iconic centre-forward is that he’s more than a goalscorer.

While he certainly can put the ball in the back of the net, the teenage sensation is also someone who can create chances for his teammates through, in the words of respected analyst Ben Mattinson, an ability to “hold up the ball.”

With all that said, how does his output stack up to that of Delap’s this season?

Appearances

14

7

Minutes

331′

294′

Goals

4

0

Assists

2

0

Goal Involvements per Match

0.42

N/A

Minutes per Goal Involvement

55.16′

N/A

Well, despite still being just 18 years old, the “lethal” number nine, as one analyst dubbed him, has scored four goals and provided two assists in 14 appearances, totalling just 331 minutes this season.

That comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.33 games, or far more crucially, one every 55.16 minutes.

In contrast, the West Londoners’ summer signing has failed to score a single goal or provide a single assist in seven appearances across all competitions, totalling 294 minutes.

Granted, he has been out injured, but the Englishman has almost played as many minutes as the youngster and arguably for a far better team.

UltimatelyUltimately, it’s still early in his career, but as one analyst puts it, Vaz looks like he’s “going straight to the top,” and therefore Chelsea should sign him, even if it’s bad news for Delap.

Bad news for Garnacho: Chelsea submit bid to sign £62m "level-raiser"

The game-changing forward could be brilliant for Chelsea but bad news for Garnacho.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 24, 2025

Tottenham boss Thomas Frank has been dealt an injury doubt ahead of their crunch Premier League clash with Man United.

Saturday’s early kick-off promises fireworks as Spurs host the Red Devils in North London.

With the two sides coming in off near-identical records of five wins and three losses from their first 10 league matches, with both also scoring 17 goals, this face-off could prove pivotal in the race for European qualification.

Tottenham’s home form has been a significant concern, with the club sitting 17th in the home standings despite topping the away form table this season. Meanwhile, no other Premier League side has lost more home games than the Lilywhites in 2025.

Frank’s side suffered another N17 setback last weekend, registering a lowly expected goals figure of just 0.1 in their 1-0 defeat to Chelsea – the lowest by any Premier League team this season.

However, their midweek 4-0 thrashing of Copenhagen in the Champions League offered a glimpse of their attacking potential, with defender Micky van de Ven bagging a stunning solo goal which drew comparisons to Son Heung-min’s famous Burnley strike in 2019.

Xavi Simons

8.1

Micky van de Ven

8.1

Wilson Odobert

7.9

Pedro Porro

7.8

Randal Kolo Muani

7.6

via WhoScored

In terms of the recent head-to-heads between Spurs and United, the former reigns supreme.

Tottenham are unbeaten against tomorrow’s visitors in their last seven meetings across all competitions, winning five and drawing two, including that historic Europa League final win in Bilbao earlier this year.

What’s more, if they beat them again tomorrow, it’ll be the first time they’ve won three league games in a row against United since 1960.

However, the injury situation adds another layer of complexity for Spurs. They currently have the longest absentee list in the Premier League with 10 players sidelined, including Dominic Solanke, Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison.

In the aftermath of Tottenham’s 4-0 win over Copenhagen, star winger Mohammed Kudus strongly hinted he could be fit to face United after missing their European clash with a knock, and Frank has now provided an update on the Ghanaian.

Tottenham star Mohammed Kudus a doubt to face Man United this weekend

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Frank explained that Kudus is “touch and go” to face United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium — meaning he might not be ready on time depending on developments.

Potentially being without Kudus would undoubtedly be a bitter blow for Frank, considering the £150,000-per-week star has stood out as their star attacker this campaign.

No other Premier League player has averaged more takes-ons per 90 than the African this season, and he’s currently among the division’s top five best-performing players overall, according to WhoScored.

United arrive in north London with genuine momentum and are unbeaten in their last four league matches with three wins and a draw, their joint-best run under Ruben Amorim.

They’ve been particularly potent in attack too, netting two or more goals in their last four outings. Bruno Fernandes has been instrumental, with the 31-year-old now looking to assist in three consecutive away appearances for the first time since November 2020.

It is perhaps the worst time to face United right now, so Frank will be hoping that Kudus can indeed take part after his electrifying start to life at the club.