West Ham United are now preparing an official offer for a “very prolific” striker, who is set to be available for around €30m (£26m) this summer, according to a report.
Hammers keen on signing new striker
It would be fair to say West Ham have had some bad luck when it comes to signing strikers over the years, with the likes of Sebastien Haller and Gianluigi Scamacca flattering to deceive, despite being very successful elsewhere.
Niclas Füllkrug has also struggled to adapt to life in the Premier League, scoring just three goals in his debut campaign, after struggling with injuries throughout the campaign, and with the German now 32-years-old, it could be worth bringing in a younger option this summer.
In recent days, the Irons made an approach for Metz centre-forward Idrissa Gueye, but with the 18-year-old attracting interest from the likes of Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund, Graham Potter’s side may find it difficult to win the race for his signature.
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As such, West Ham may be forced to move on to alternative options, and they are now set to intensify their efforts to sign a Serie A striker…
That is according to a report from Italy (via The Hard Tackles), which states the Hammers are now preparing an official bid for Cagliari striker Roberto Piccoli, who is set to be available for a fee of around €30m (£26m) this summer.
Piccoli is said to have attracted interest from a number of clubs across Europe after an impressive 2024-25 campaign, including Benfica and Fiorentina, and the Irons are now looking to steal a march on rival suitors by lodging a formal offer.
Roberto Piccoli celebrates scoring for Cagliari.
Potter’s side are scouring the market for a new striker, given that Fullkrug and Evan Ferguson failed to have the desired impact last season, with a deal for Newcastle United’s Callum Wilson also thought to be edging closer to completion.
"Very prolific" Piccoli could be ideal signing for West Ham
Wilson, of course, is already vastly experienced in the Premier League, having had stints with Newcastle United and AFC Bournemouth, but the Englishman is now 33-years-old, and struggled with injuries throughout the 2024-25 campaign.
Wilson Injuries 24/25
Games missed
Hamstring
14
Back
15
As such, it may be a wise idea to bring in a younger striker, who is more dependable, and the 24-year-old Cagliari striker could fit the bill, fresh off the back of an impressive 2024-25 season.
The Italian, who was once lauded as “very prolific” by scout Jacek Kulig, amassed ten goals and three assists for Cagliari in the Serie A last season, in what was undoubtedly the most impressive season of his career so far.
Piccoli is at the right age to be a long-term success at the London Stadium, and West Ham will be hoping they have finally found a striker capable of leading the line for years to come.
Manchester United may need to get creative to sanction more transfers this summer and could now be offered an intriguing solution to solve their need for more firepower, according to reports.
Manchester United defeat Bournemouth in Premier League Summer Series
The United States has played host to plenty of high-profile football clubs this year and Manchester United were the latest to turn out in front fo adoring locals for a 4-1 victory over Bournemouth in this year’s Premier League Summer Series.
Rasmus Hojlund claimed a much-needed goal in Chicago before strikes from Patrick Dorgu, Amad and Ethan Williams made Matthijs De Ligt’s mishap nothing more than a consolation for the Cherries.
Rasmus Hojlund
Nevertheless, Ruben Amorim remained coy on Hojlund’s future at Old Trafford despite a sharp performance from the Denmark international in pre-season.
He stated: “I am really happy with Rasmus. I don’t know what is going to happen until the end of the market. The important thing is that Rasmus is scoring goals. He’s connecting really well with the team. He’s improving.
“Again, I don’t know what is going to happen until the market is closed. I’m really happy with the players that we had last season. We looked like a different team today. Let’s continue with that.”
Man Utd make contact to sign Champions League hero who's set to leave PSG
The Red Devils could land an incredible coup…
ByTom Cunningham Jul 30, 2025
There is no secret that the Portuguese manager wants attacking reinforcements, leading to RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko becoming a central target for Manchester United.
Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins is another profile the Red Devils would love to have, with the potential for a swap deal involving Alejandro Garnacho floated.
On the other hand, could Garnacho now become part of a different player exchange involving two players who may well be on the move this summer?
Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson offered to Manchester United
According to The Athletic, Chelsea have offered both Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson to Manchester United. Still, it isn’t clear whether they have been proposed as a package or separately in a swap for Garnacho, who is a target at Stamford Bridge.
Labelled “something special” by Tyler Adams, Nkunku hasn’t got going fully in West London after moving to the Blues from RB Leipzig, though he did register 15 goals across all competitions last season.
Meanwhile, Senegal international Jackson is very similar to Alexander Isak, per stats site FBRef, signalling that he could be the man to strengthen the Red Devils’ frontline moving forward.
Jackson, last 365 days, per 90 mins
Isak, last 365 days, per 90 mins
Shots – 3.08
Shots – 3.10
Shot-creating actions – 2.80
Shot-creating actions – 3.00
Non-penalty XG – 0.50
Non-penalty XG – 0.71
Progressive carries – 1.54
Progressive carries – 2.71
Touches in attacking penalty area – 5.72
Touches in attacking penalty area – 6.17
All stats courtesy of FBRef
Earning a similar tally to Nkunku, £100,000 per week striker Jackson notched 13 goals and six assists in 37 outings, helping his side to both the Europa Conference League and Club World Cup.
Garnacho is very much on his way out of Manchester United and it may make sense to try and cut a deal that would see one of Chelsea’s attacking forces immediately enter the void if the Argentina international opts to leave Old Trafford.
Have West Ham United reinvested the money that they gained from selling Declan Rice to Arsenal in 2023 well? They made over £100m from that sale, and whilst they have signed plenty of big-name players since then, including the now-departed Mohammed Kudus and Lucas Paqueta, they have yet to have a better season than when Rice was in their midfield.
Of course, losing your captain to a London rival is never going to be an easy pill to swallow. However, they have spent money on two midfielders since his departure, namely Edson Alvarez and James Ward-Prowse, and signed Guido Rodriguez for free and Kalvin Phillips on a brief loan.
Wolves midfielder James Ward-Prowse.
Yet, there still feels like a Rice-shaped hole in the midfield for the Hammers. Perhaps that will change this summer.
West Ham’s latest midfield target
It has certainly been a frustrating time for the Hammers when it comes to replacing their captain, and an England starter. Rice’s influence in the middle of the park has certainly been missed as they slowly slide down the table.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
However, a report from Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, via Sport Witness, suggests that the Hammers may have found the man to finally replace Rice, in the form of Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz. The report states that the Hammers have actually made a loan bid with an option to buy the Brazilian.
Indeed, the option to buy the 27-year-old could become obligatory if certain conditions are met. Luiz, who earns £138k-per-week according to Capology, would cost the Hammers £8.6m ahead of the loan.
Douglas Luiz in action for Juventus.
They’d then need to pay a further £26m if he ends up moving to the London Stadium permanently.
Why Luiz would be a good signing
Despite a tough campaign for Juve in the 2024/25 season, with the midfielder constantly out of favour under a couple of managers, his quality is undeniable. He has already had success in the Premier League with Aston Villa.
Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz
His single season playing for the Old Lady so far certainly did not go to plan. He only made 27 appearances last term in all competitions, without scoring or assisting. The former Villa star notched up just 877 minutes, the equivalent of only 9.7 full 90-minute games.
Despite the outrageously low number of minutes played for Juve to date, Luiz certainly has the mettle to play in the Premier League. He racked up 204 Villa appearances, scoring 22 goals and registering 24 assists in that time. Statman Dave described him as a midfield “engine”, which is certainly what the Hammers are looking for.
Stepping into the shoes of Rice at the London Stadium will not be an easy task for Luiz. Let’s not forget just how much of an iconic figure the former Hammers captain is at the club.
He lifted the Conference League as captain in 2022/23, just weeks before he left.
In total, the London-born midfielder played 245 times for the East Londoners, scoring 15 goals, including this solo effort in their run to the Conference League final. Chelsea and England legend John Terry described him as “the best in his position in world football” back in 2021.
So, for former winger turned pundit Jermaine Pennant to claim that Luiz “can do everything that Rice can do and better” shows just how good of a midfielder he is. Indeed, there are stats which back up this bold claim from the former Liverpool winger.
Looking at numbers on FBref from 2023/24, Luiz’s last season in the Premier League, there are some standout stats. For example, that season he averaged 5.53 ball recoveries per 90 minutes, compared to 4.97 each game from Rice, while providing more of an impact in terms of goal contributions.
Goals and assists
0.42
0.35
Pass accuracy
85.7%
83.4%
Passes into penalty area
1.17
1.11
Blocks
0.96
0.86
Ball recoveries
5.53
4.97
Signing Luiz on a loan deal with an option to buy him could be the dream move for West Ham. He is proven in the Premier League, and perhaps better, whisper it quietly, than Rice, a player they have struggled to replace over the last two years.
Douglas Luiz at the Club World Cup with Juventus.
This relatively risk-free move could be ideal for the Hammers to help strengthen in midfield and climb back up the table.
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It’s been another characteristically busy summer for Chelsea this year.
As well as making it to the quarter-finals of the Club World Cup – the only English side to do so – the Blues have been wheeling and dealing in the transfer market.
The latest star to be announced by the club was striker Joao Pedro, who took the now well-trodden path to Stamford Bridge from Brighton & Hove Albion for around £60m.
Chelsea manager EnzoMaresca
However, the West Londoners are far from done there, as a deal has reportedly now been reached to sign Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund, and on top of that, a talent who could be the next Cole Palmer has also been linked.
Chelsea target young talents
The ethos at Chelsea over the last few years has been to buy young, up-and-coming talents, which is something they are continuing to do 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.
For example, Gittens, whose final price tag appears to be around £55m, is still just 20 years old, and based on his tally of 12 goals and five assists in 49 games last season, looks set for a bright future.
Likewise, Liam Delap, who joined the club from Ipswich Town for just £30m prior to the CWC last month, is still just 22, and already has a goal and an assist to his name in four appearances for the Blues.
And now, there is another promising gem that is on the club’s radar: Tyler Dibling.
Yes, according to a recent report from Football Transfers, Chelsea are incredibly interested in the Southampton prospect.
In fact, the report goes a step further, claiming that West Londoners have already begun talks with the youngster’s camp and are considering making an offer for him.
However, they aren’t the only ones interested in the 19-year-old, as Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, Man Utd, Aston Villa, and RB Leipzig are all keeping an eye on him.
Southampton's TylerDiblingcelebrates scoring their third goal with Mateus Fernandes
Moreover, the Saints reportedly value their exciting talent at a minimum of £55m.
In all, it could be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given Dibling’s ability and potential, it’s one worth fighting for, especially as he could be their next Palmer.
Why Dibling could be Palmer 2.0
So, the first thing to say is that we know this is a massive statement, but to be clear, we are not saying that Dibling is like Palmer at the moment, as he is not, and it’s not even close.
However, there are some clear similarities between them and their potential moves, should the Southampton gem move to Chelsea.
For example, he’d be another young, reasonably sought-after English talent moving to Stamford Bridge to test himself with regular football at a massive club.
Moreover, while the Exeter-born dynamo is primarily a right-winger, he has spent plenty of time playing in attacking midfield and has actually played in a multitude of positions.
Similarly, the Blues talismanic attacker tends to play in attacking midfield, but has spent plenty of time off the right, as well as in a number of areas on the pitch.
Tyler Dibling in action for Southampton in the Premier League.
Finally, while he wasn’t able to have quite the same impact as Palmer did last season, in part because he’s younger and was playing in a terrible team, the teenager has the same determination to make things happen.
For example, FBref placed him in the top 13% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Premier League last season for successful take-ons per 90, and in 38 games across all competitions, he scored four goals and provided three assists.
Appearances
38
Minutes
2215′
Goals
4
Assists
3
Goal Involvements per Match
0.18
Minutes per Goal Involvement
316.42′
It’s not just us either, as Dion Dublin argued that “he plays his game like Cole Palmer” last season, in part due to the way he “rolls players and takes the ball well.”
Ultimately, he’s clearly not yet at the level of Palmer, but Dibling looks like he could reach that level in the future, and therefore, Chelsea should do what they can to sign him.
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After winning the Premier League title, Liverpool could have rested on their laurels. They have done the complete opposite.
Having partied gleefully in Ibiza and Dubai, the Reds have sprung into life in the transfer window, securing an outstanding set of signings already.
While the loss of Trent Alexander-Arnold was a bitter pill to swallow, it’s likely they’ll forget all about the boyhood Red when Jeremie Frimpong takes to the field as a Liverpool player for the first time.
Bayer Leverkusen's Jeremie Frimpong
On the opposite side of defence, Milos Kerkez has arrived from Bournemouth, aiming to evoke memories of a young Andy Robertson.
The most special of moves, however, was Florian Wirtz. Wow, what a deal this was. Signed for a Premier League record £116m, he arrives from Bayer Leverkusen regarded as one of the best 10s in the game.
It’s a huge statement to the rest of the division, but the Anfield outfit are not done yet.
Liverpool close in on another new signing
If Reds supporters would pick one player to sign and then close the window, it would be Alexander Isak.
If Darwin Nunez leaves for Napoli, as widely expected, then FSG and Richard Hughes still have money to spend. Yet, despite their interest in the Newcastle forward, it’s unlikely anyone in European football will be able to get close to a reported £200m price tag slapped on his head.
Liverpool do still need to sign a striker but their latest focus has seen them make attempts to revamp the centre of the defence with Ibrahima Konate’s future uncertain, having attracted the interest of Real Madrid.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
As a result, Liverpool have been looking at adding Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi to their ranks with reports indicating a few days ago that personal terms were on the verge of being agreed.
This weekend, the Mirror has stated that a move is now even closer to completion. They suggest that the Reds are ‘in prime position’ to complete a move and that ‘talks between all parties will take place in the next 24 hours’.
Crystal Palace's MarcGuehicelebrates after the match
Palace value the centre-half at £70m but with a year left on his deal, they acknowledge that they will have to accept a lower fee, potentially something in the region of £40m. Chelsea hold a 20% sell-on clause so the Eagles are understandably trying to obtain the highest fee they can.
How Guehi can replicate Liverpool's transfer window blinders
Recruiting players from the Premier League is a smart strategy. Knowing the division and the country, they need little time to get up to speed and often hit the ground running quickly.
It’s a strategy Manchester United often deployed under Sir Alex Ferguson, with two of the most notable names being Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney who arrived from Leeds United and Everton, respectively.
It’s a tactic deployed by Mikel Arteta at Arsenal in recent years too. Declan Rice was signed for £105m from West Ham, while goalkeeper David Raya, the 2024/25 Golden Glove winner, came in from Brentford.
They settled quickly and the adjustment time was very minimal. Liverpool have also reaped the rewards of this.
Think of the aforementioned Robertson, plucked from Hull City, Gini Wijnaldum from Newcastle United, Diogo Jota from Wolves and so on. All three of those players were particularly consistent, heralded as unsung heroes.
Sadio Mane
Southampton
£34m
Gini Wijnaldum
Newcastle
£25m
Virgil van Dijk
Southampton
£75m
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Arsenal
£35m
Andy Robertson
Hull City
£8m
Xherdan Shaqiri
Stoke City
£13.5m
Diogo Jota
Wolves
£41m
Alexis Mac Allister
Brighton
£35m
Milos Kerkez
Bournemouth
£40m
There was also Sadio Mane, one of the greatest modern forwards we’ve seen at Anfield since the turn of the millennium.
In 2016, Liverpool purged Southampton to bring Mane to Merseyside in a deal worth £34m, a move that made him the most expensive African player of all time.
In the 2015/16 season, the Senegalese winger was particularly eye-catching, scoring 15 goals in all competitions, also registering seven assists. Three of those goals included a famous hat-trick against Manchester City.
After moving to the Reds, Mane instantly hit the ground running, netting 13 Premier League goals in 27 outings during his debut campaign. The rest was history.
The Senegal international was simply electrifying in Liverpool colours, moving to Bayern Munich in 2022, having scored 120 times in 269 outings.
While Guehi, a centre-half by trade, is not going to arrive at Liverpool and start scoring by the bucketload, similarly to Mane, he is likely to become an instant fan favourite.
He knows the division and his experience of English football so far stands him in good stead to be a rip-roaring success from the get-go.
A year ago, the defender was in top form at the European Championships and after being described as “England’s best centre-back” by some, it was perhaps surprising his move hadn’t occurred earlier.
Well, Liverpool are here now, and they’re ready to sign one of the best players outside of the league’s typical top six, just as they did with Mane.
Crystal Palace's MarcGuehireacts after the match
He’s caught the eye immensely, notably with his ability to read the play. In the 2024/25 Premier League, the 24-year-old ranked inside the top 20% of positionally similar players for blocks per 90 minutes (1.62) and the best 3% for passes blocked per 90 (0.94).
Guehi also made 4.30 ball recoveries per 90, enough to rank him in the top 21% of centre-backs in England’s best league.
Let’s put those numbers into context. Skipper Virgil van Dijk only made 0.96 blocks and blocked 0.11 passes per 90 minutes. He also only made 3.77 ball recoveries. Now, of course, Palace do more defending than Liverpool, but it proves that Guehi is set up to be a big hit if he moves away from Selhurst Park.
Liverpool legends Alan Hansen and Virgil van Dijk
The Reds have proven success of buying from the Premier League and could repeat that trick here. In the words of Palace reporter Bobby Manzi, he’s a “monster in defence” and would be a superb signing.
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Chelsea transfer chiefs appear set to be thwarted by European champions PSG in their pursuit of a top target, with Enzo Maresca dealt his first summer blow as he looks to reshape the squad in his image.
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Despite possessing a squad rich with youthful quality, their 3-1 Club World Cup defeat to Brazilian side Flamengo indicates there is still plenty of work to be done on the squad, with Maresca also looking to transform Chelsea into genuine title challengers.
The Italian, speaking in a press conference after Chelsea’s damaging loss – which now makes their next game against ES Tunis an absolute must-win – admitted that he’s currently experimenting with his system and tactics in preparation for 2025/2026.
Cole Palmer
7.33
Moises Caicedo
7.02
Enzo Fernández
6.95
Nicolas Jackson
6.88
Noni Madueke
6.82
via WhoScored
“Unfortunately, we conceded two goals in a very short period, a very short moment — and then the red card,” Maresca said.
“Then it’s very complicated to come back into the game. We tried, but congratulations to them. I think we tried to do something different during the game, also for next season, but congratulations to them. Now we have one more game, and we are going to try to win the next one.”
Off the field, one of many items on Chelsea’s to-do list when it comes to summer recruitment is the addition of a new central defender – which has long been rumoured as a priority.
Benoit Badiashile, Axel Disasi and Wesley Fofana face uncertain futures, according to some reports, with Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite and Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande among the names on Chelsea’s centre-back shortlist this summer.
However, Bournemouth defender Illia Zabarnyi won’t be moving to west London.
Chelsea target Illia Zabarnyi agrees to join PSG
Zabarnyi was called the Premier League’s most “underrated” defender recently by Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp, and Chelsea recently knocked on the Ukraine international’s door in their pursuit of another option for the heart of Maresca’s defence.
“He is probably the most underrated player,” said Redknapp.
“I also spoke with Ukrainian legend Andriy Shevchenko, and he mentioned that Illia has everything it takes to reach the next level. Everyone is talking about Dean Huijsen. Yes, he is a fantastic young player, but Zabarnyi plays very aggressively in defense as well. I was genuinely impressed by him. He shows remarkable calmness on the pitch.”
Bournemouth are demanding around £51 million to let the 22-year-old leave, but according to journalist Graeme Bailey, Zabarnyi has agreed terms to join PSG despite Chelsea’s attempts to sign him.
“He really is only focused on PSG,” Bailey told TBR Football.
“I am told that he has agreed personal terms in principle, but there is still some way to go in terms between Bournemouth and PSG. Bournemouth are not too happy with how this is going, but they know the player wants the move and has made that clear.
“When a team like PSG comes calling, even when there is no release clause – it is tough. I can confirm even in the last few weeks since it emerged about PSG, that Chelsea and Newcastle again asked the question, but were also told that he only wants PSG.”
Celtic are reportedly eyeing a move for an impressive defender in the summer transfer window, as Brendan Rodgers looks to perfect his squad for a chance at Champions League glory.
Celtic eyeing signings after Rodgers admission
Back in April, Rodgers made it clear that a busy summer was needed at Parkhead, even though his side were once again coasting towards the Scottish Premiership title.
“We always want to improve the team, improve the hunger in the team. Because one of the ways to succeed and guard across what I’ve been talking about, is you need the freshness. It’s either that or the manager goes. It’s as simple as that. You cannot be at a club for a long period of time with the same group of players. And, likewise, the same group of players need a different voice maybe. But, at this moment, it will be about improving the squad.”
Celtic continue to be linked with potential signings to bolster their chances of further success in Europe, with a move for Nordsjaelland attacker Benjamin Nygren thought to be on the verge of being completed.
Meanwhile, a reunion with former striker Odsonne Edouard has also been mooted, having been loaned out to Leicester City by Crystal Palace last season. The 27-year-old scored 87 goals in 179 appearances during his first stint at Celtic, and given his age, he could be an excellent signing this summer.
Celtic eyeing surprise move for defender
According to The Herald‘s reliable journalist Stephen McGowan, Celtic are “working on a surprise move” for Japanese defender Hayato Inamura. The 23-year-old currently plays for J-League side Albirex Niigata as a left-sided centre-back, but he can also play on the left side of a back four, which is a bonus in terms of squad depth.
Inamura isn’t a household name like Edouard, but that’s not to say that he couldn’t be a shrewd acquisition by Celtic ahead of next season.
At 23, the Japanese talent is a young player who is still improving, so the Hoops could be getting his best years, potentially even keeping him for a decade if he proves that he is up to the challenge of consistently performing for one of the biggest clubs in Britain.
Inamura has made 33 appearances for Albirex Niigata, and given Celtic’s penchant for signing Japanese players throughout their recent history, they should be trusted in seeing him as a sensible signing.
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His versatility is a clear positive, allowing him to flourish in two different positions – the fact that he is left-footed also adds balance to the squad – and while he may not be a regular starter from the off, he could be a solid squad option who can develop into a key man over time.
The dust has barely settled on Leeds United’s jubilant promotion-winning campaign, but the transfer rumour mill is already going into overdrive at Elland Road.
The Whites have been linked with a whole host of varied names since regular Championship action halted, with the likes of Everton centre-forward Beto and Tottenham Hotspur attacker Richarlison being linked, but the Brazilian is not the only wanted figure playing for the North Londoners.
Of course, after playing a huge role in the Whites sealing a triumphant return to the Premier League on loan, Manor Solomon is now being eyed up by the West Yorkshire titans on a permanent basis, with Spurs perhaps willing to part ways with the 25-year-old.
The latest on Solomon joining permanently
There were plenty of risks attached to the Solomon deal last summer, considering the 5 foot 7 attacker was horrendously injury-prone at Ange Postecoglou’s men during the 2023/24 season.
But, despite missing 277 days of action last campaign in North London owing to injury, this season has been more of a smooth sailing experience for Solomon on the contrary, with this last-gasp strike below away at Plymouth Argyle on the final day handing Daniel Farke’s men the title.
That would be Solomon’s final goal of his loan stint, with the former Fulham man closing out his celebrated spell donning Leeds white by amassing ten goals and 13 assists from 41 total clashes.
Unsurprisingly, therefore, the Whites want Solomon back for good ahead of their daunting Premier League voyage, with reports seeming to suggest that Leeds’ wish could be granted if they’re willing to fork out £20m.
This would show Leeds mean business competing amongst the big boys once more, but an even more impressive coup could be on the horizon at Elland Road soon in the midfield areas.
The "exceptional" star who'd be a bigger coup than Solomon
After all, splashing out £20m isn’t too far off the record-breaking move for Georginio Rutter that Leeds sanctioned back in January of 2023, with the Frenchman costing a high £35.5m, but eventually proving he was worth every penny.
There would be a worry in the air that Solomon would struggle with his recurring injury demons back up a level, but away from potentially offering the 25-year-old a permanent deal, snapping up the services of former £45m sale Kalvin Phillips would be way more of a coup if he can recapture his finest Leeds form again.
Indeed, journalist Graeme Bailey has added to the rampant speculation recently by revealing that a reunion could finally be on the cards, stating that £13m-rated Phillips is ready for a move back to home soil this summer with Leeds considering a move.
Leeds would, no doubt, welcome their former homegrown gem back with open arms, especially with the hole that’s going to be left behind centrally by loanee Joe Rothwell returning back to AFC Bournemouth, alongside Phillips’ wealth of Premier League experience being a much-needed bonus.
Games played
29
20
Games started
28
18
Goals scored
1
0
Assists
2
1
Touches*
65.0
62.1
Accurate passes*
41.0 (85%)
38.9 (82%)
Big chances missed
0
1
Big chances created
5
1
Total duels won*
5.3
4.9
Phillips has wobbled at Manchester City and blown hot and cold on loan at West Ham United and Ipswich Town, but it’s been quickly forgotten about how well-rounded of a midfielder the Leeds-born star looked whilst still at Elland Road.
Keen to get stuck into a duel whilst also picking up four goal contributions across 49 appearances in the top-flight for Leeds, the “exceptional” star – as he was once lauded by football talent scout Antonio Mango – would be a welcome addition to the ranks if he can get back to the top of his game, away from impressively tasting action in the relentless league a total of 92 times.
Former Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips.
To add context, Solomon has just 24 appearances next to his name. Therefore, if Leeds could win back the services of their much-loved ex-number 23 for a cut-price, he would surely go down as a more luxurious coup than the loan talent.
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With Real Madrid setting their sights on William Saliba, Arsenal would now reportedly consider selling their star defender for the chance to sign a talented midfielder from the Spaniards in return.
Real Madrid eyeing Saliba move
After a disappointing season which could yet end without a trophy, it could be all change in the Real Madrid technical area this summer. Recent reports have indicated that Carlo Ancelotti is in negotiations to become the new manager of the Brazilian national team, which would likely see Xabi Alonso make his way to the Bernabeu ahead of the next campaign.
With Alonso possibly arriving, the Spaniards could yet be in for a busy summer transfer window too. Already, they’re in negotiations with Trent Alexander-Arnold over a free move upon the expiry of his current Liverpool contract at the end of the season and have now also reportedly set their sights on Saliba.
Recent reports in Spain have suggested that the Frenchman is on Alonso’s list of targets should he step into the Madrid technical area in the coming months. Following another season without a Premier League title and with Arsenal’s Champions League fate hanging in the balance, it remains to be seen whether Saliba will be able to turn down the lure of the Bernabeu.
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If that does prove to be the case, then there’s no doubt that his departure will be a major blow. At the same time, however, it looks as though the Gunners will at least aim to get something in return.
Arsenal now considering Saliba sale on one condition
According to reports in Spain, Arsenal would now consider selling Saliba to Real Madrid if they got Aurelien Tchouameni in return. Mikel Arteta is reportedly a big fan of the Frenchman and may yet have the perfect chance to welcome him to North London.
What his arrival would also do is replace Thomas Partey, who is currently on course to leave Arsenal as a free agent upon the expiry of his current contract this summer.
Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni.
Filling that gap in the middle of the park should be among the Gunners’ top priorities, especially if they are to finally claim Premier League glory next season. And there’s no doubt that Tchouameni should be a top candidate to do exactly that.
Minutes
2,364
2,437
Progressive Passes
149
165
Interceptions
42
32
Ball Recoveries
124
120
Dubbed “strong” by Ancelotti earlier this season, Tchouemeni has matched and even outperformed Partey in a number of areas this season. At the sacrifice of Saliba, Arsenal could land an instant upgrade in midfield.
Whether it is worth losing one of the best centre-backs in European football to boost their midfield is a question that those at The Emirates must ponder, however.
Aston Villa are now in a three-way race to sign an “incredible” midfielder who is ready to leave his current club this summer, according to a report.
Villa stepping up midfielder pursuit
As we approach the summer transfer window, Villa seem to be particularly keen on adding a midfielder to their ranks, having submitted an offer for Rosenborg’s Sverre Nypan last week, and Fabrizio Romano has recently dropped a further update.
A deal for Nypan appears to be edging closer, but given that the Norwegian is just 18-years-old, Unai Emery may be keen on bringing in a central midfielder with a little more experience at the top level, and contact has been made over FC Barcelona’s Marc Casado.
Back in October, it was revealed that Emery had personally requested the signing of Athletic Club’s Oihan Sancet, with the manager being left “captivated” by the midfielder’s performances, which indicates the Spaniard is a big fan.
Now, there has been a new update on Aston Villa’s pursuit of Sancet, with a report from Spain revealing they are now in a three-way race for the 24-year-old, alongside Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool.
The Villans are said to be closely monitoring the Spanish midfielder’s development, and their presence in the Champions League should give them a good chance of winning the race for his signature.
The Pamplona-born maestro is ready to leave Athletic Club this summer, but a deal will not be cheap, with the La Liga side set to hold out for his release clause of €80m (£69m).
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The attacking midfielder has previously been lauded as “incredible” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, and he has been one of his side’s top performers in La Liga this season, having averaged a 6.97 match rating.
The Spain international has been particularly impressive in front of goal, having scored 16 goals in all competitions, including 15 in 23 La Liga games, which is a phenomenal record for a midfielder.
As a result, the Athletic star ranks in the top 2% for non-penalty goals per 90 over the past year, when compared to his positional peers, while also ranking very highly on some other key metrics for midfielders.
Statistic
Average per 90
Non-penalty goals
0.64 (98th percentile)
Pass completion %
82.3% (86th percentile)
Progressive passes
5.78 (86th percentile)
Sancet could be a fantastic signing for Aston Villa this summer, and they should be well-placed to compete for his signature, should they manage to qualify for the Champions League once again.