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Slowly and then all at once might be one way to describe Arsenal’s transfer window so far.

For weeks and weeks, it felt like very little was happening at the Emirates, but now Martin Zubimendi’s transfer is reportedly wrapped up, as is Kepa Arrizabalaga’s, and there have been reports of progress being made towards both Rodrygo and Viktor Gyokeres.

It’s not just incomings either, as Fabrizio Romano broke the news yesterday afternoon that Thomas Partey is now “set to leave” this month.

As if that wasn’t enough, yesterday also saw news come out linking Arsenal to Christian Nørgaard as a potential replacement, but if other reports are to be believed, Mikel Arteta could be looking to sign another midfielder who’d be even better than the Brentford star.

Arsenal target Nørgaard upgrade

While it’s been known for a few days now that the contract talks with Partey were not advancing and that there was, therefore, a real chance the Ghanaian could leave this summer, there were no murmurings that Nørgaard was being looked at as a potential signing.

Transfer Focus

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

In fact, the report from Danish journalist Mads Glenn Wehlast on Wednesday morning was the first time most people had any idea the club were even supposedly interested in the 31-year-old.

The report claims that the Gunners have already submitted an offer worth around €11m in total, which is about £9m.

While that could end up being a good deal, there is still another midfielder the club are interested in, someone who’d be a better signing: Lucien Agoume.

According to a recent report from The Athletic, Arsenal are still very much interested in the Sevilla star, who has been the subject of talks.

A price for the young Frenchman is not mentioned in the report, but stories from earlier this week claim that he could be available for just £20m, although he is also a target for Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

It might not be a big-name signing, but based on the ability Agoume has already shown, and the potential so many believe him to possess, it’s one Arsenal should fight for, especially as he would be a better addition to the squad than Nørgaard.

How Agoume compares to Nørgaard

So, if it ends up being a choice between signing Agoume and Nørgaard in the coming weeks, why should Arsenal opt for the former?

Well, the first argument, and its significant one, is the statistical one, as when we take a look under the hood and compare their underlying numbers, it becomes clear that the Sevilla star, whom talent scout Jacek Kulig described as “10 out of 10 talent,” is the more well-rounded midfielder.

The Dane might do marginally better in a few metrics, such as non-penalty expected goals plus assists and passing accuracy per 90, but he comes out a clear second-best in most other statistics that are relevant for a number six.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.14

0.18

Progressive Carries

1.23

0.45

Progressive Passes

5.74

4.92

Passing Accuracy

81.5%

81.6%

Key Passes

1.15

0.58

Passes into the Final Third

5.36

4.38

Shot-Creating Actions

2.55

1.85

Goal-Creating Actions

0.21

0.42

Tackles

2.98

2.52

Blocks

1.28

1.66

Interceptions

1.74

1.57

Errors Leading to a Shot

0.00

0.03

Successful take-ons

0.94

0.22

Aerial Duels Won

1.79

1.57

For example, the former Inter Milan gem comes out looking far better in things like progressive passes and carries, key passes, shot-creating actions and, most crucially, tackles, interceptions and aerial duels won per 90.

This suggests that not only does he have the Bees ace beat in plenty of attacking areas, but he’d also be able to better provide cover for the back four, and the fact he’s so good at winning balls in the air will be like music to Arteta’s ears.

Finally, there is another number that matters here: his age.

At 22 years old, the Yaoundé-born maestro has plenty of time to continue developing, and if he does do that, then the Gunners would have a serious midfielder on their hands down the line, whereas at 31, the Brentford star is only going to regress over time.

Moreover, if Zubimendi is going to be the starting six anyway, surely it makes sense to bring in a promising understudy to cover for him, someone who could seriously rival him for game time in a few years.

Ultimately, while Nørgaard wouldn’t be a bad signing by any means, Agoume just looks like the far better option, and therefore, Arsenal should be doing what they can to get him this summer.

Dream teammate for Rodrygo: Arsenal now in talks to sign £68m "magician"

The creative monster could help the Brazilian reach another level at Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 25, 2025

A flash-flood emergency is likely to wash out the game, in which case USA will qualify for the Super Eight at Ireland and Pakistan’s expense

Shashank Kishore13-Jun-20241:48

O’Brien: USA favourites but Ireland can dream

Match detailsUSA vs Ireland
June 14, Lauderhill, 10.30am local timeBig picture – Weather likely to end Ireland and Pakistan’s hopesFlorida is in the midst of a tropical disturbance that has brought intense rainfall. And there’s no respite for the remainder of the week. A flash-flood emergency in the region threatens to wash out the entire leg of matches at Central Broward Park.Two days ago, Nepal vs Sri Lanka was washed out before there could be a toss. Friday’s morning fixture between USA and Ireland will likely meet the same fate. If that happens, USA can celebrate; a Super Eight berth will be theirs along with India from Group A. It will mean a dagger through Pakistani hearts; it will seem inevitable after they opened their campaign with back-to-back losses to USA and India.Related

'Iceman' Netravalkar creates the moment, and then lets it pop out

Florida weatherwatch: Last three Group A games set to be affected

From computers to cricket: how Netravalkar coded USA's greatest script

Saurabh Netravalkar may need to change the date of his ‘out of office’ email from June 17 until possibly the end of the month. It’s likely he won’t need to tell his employers why. The cricketing world watched his opening salvo with the new ball as he famously dismissed Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in successive overs on Wednesday morning.Ireland are entering this game with slim hopes of qualifying. Having begun the tournament with two morale-shattering losses themselves, including one to Canada, they need to win both their remaining games by considerable margins.But instead of plotting and planning, they will likely be scouring weather forecasts, and that may not change anything. It’s that bleak.1:33

Big match-up: Ireland top-order vs Netravalkar

Form guideUSA LWWLW
Ireland LLWWWIn the spotlight – Monank Patel and Paul StirlingMonank Patel missed Thursday’s match against India due to a shoulder niggle. The USA captain has been in good form too; his half-century was pivotal in their taking the game against Pakistan into a Super Over. In the lead-up to the T20 World Cup, he struck two match-winning half-centuries against Canada, while a crucial 42 helped steer USA home against Bangladesh. While the team management is optimistic of him being ready for Friday, the rain may just come as a blessing in disguise to give him two extra days to recover in time for the Super Eight.Aaron Jones captained USA in Monank Patel’s absence against India•ICC/Getty ImagesHe can make heads turn with his robust approach in the powerplay, but Paul Stirling has endured a lean run lately, dismissed for 2 and 9 in Ireland’s first two games. His highest score in seven T20Is since the start of May is 36 against Netherlands. Ireland will need much more than that if they are to compete. Stirling has been a part of several giant-killing acts during the course of his career. Can he come up with another to keep the group alive, if rain allows play?Team newsMonank is likely to come in for Shayan Jahangir for the hosts.USA possible XI: 1 Monank Patel (capt & wk), 2 Steven Taylor, 3 Andries Gous, 4 Aaron Jones, 5 Nitish Kumar, 6 Corey Anderson, 7 Harmeet Singh, 8 Jasdeep Singh, 9 Saurabh Netravalkar, 10 Ali Khan, 11 Nosthush Kenjige/Shadley van Schalkwyk.Conditions will probably dictate who among Ben White, the legspinner, or Craig Young, the fast bowler, play.Ireland possible XI: 1 Paul Stirling (capt), 2 Andrew Balbirnie, 3 Lorcan Tucker (wk), 4 Harry Tector, 5 Curtis Campher, 6 George Dockrell, 7 Gareth Delany, 8 Mark Adair, 9 Barry McCarthy, 10 Josh Little, 11 Craig Young.Pitch and conditionsHeavy rain is forecast for the next three days. The pitches have mostly been under covers and that’s unlikely to change. A state of emergency has been declared in five counties, including Broward where the stadium is located. It’ll need a miracle even for the curators to simply have a look at the surface underneath.Stats and trivia Stirling has gone 18 innings without a fifty since July 2023, scoring 268 runs at an average of 15.76. Aaron Jones is the second-highest run-getter in this T20 World Cup with 141 runs, and his 94* in the opening game is still the highest individual score of the tournament. Ireland and USA have faced off twice in T20Is, both times in 2021 at Lauderhill, the venue for Friday’s game. They have won one game apiece.

Everton have made contact over the signing of a “world-class” defender with many trophy wins to his name, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Everton eyeing Richarlison reunion

The Blues are expected to make plenty of changes to their squad in the summer transfer window, both in terms of incoming signings and current players moving on.

Richarlison is arguably among Everton’s best attacking players in the Premier League era, scoring 53 goals in 152 appearances, and the Merseysiders are reportedly interested in bringing him back to the club.

The Brazilian has struggled to consistently shine in a Tottenham shirt, with injuries certainly not helping in that respect, and Blues supporters will hope that he feels he has unfinished business with his former club.

Appearances

152

Goals

53

Assists

15

In terms of other potential signings, ex-Manchester United midfielder Fred is seen as a good option to add to Everton’s midfield, with the Brazilian now playing for Turkish giants Fenerbahce. Grasshopper Zurich attacker Adama Bojang has also been mentioned as a target.

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Everton are looking to sign a striker or two this summer

ByRoss Kilvington Jun 17, 2025 Everton make contact over signing Kyle Walker – Romano

Writing on X on Monday, Romano claimed that Everton have made contact with Manchester City legend Kyle Walker over a potential move to Merseyside this summer.

Walker will be allowed to leave City before next season gets underway, acting as an immediate boost for the Blues, and he could jump at the chance of remaining in the Premier League during the autumn of his career, with David Moyes also approving a transfer for the right-back.

At 35 years of age, there is no doubt that the England international’s best days are now likely to be behind him, but he still possesses electric pace and is a born winner, having clinched league title glory six times in his career, also winning one Champions League crown.

Walker has been among Europe’s best right-backs over the past decade, with his speed arguably making him the best possible opponent for Kylian Mbappe, who called Walker a “tank”. Pep Guardiola has also heaped praise on him in the past.

“I would say first of all [as] a footballer, [he] has a genetic [quality that] is incomparable, physicalities, something unique. After is the personality. When he talks to his mates, the people listen and now I think he is making a step as a more mature player, on and off the pitch.”

Granted, Walker is likely to demand high wages, which Everton may struggle with compared to other clubs, but if he agrees to join them, it would feel like a major coup.

The Blues could get a couple of good years out of him, with the Englishman putting his experience to good use, acting as an upgrade on Moyes’ recent right-back options, too.

Arsenal’s recruitment drive is becoming more interesting by the day, with news coming to light on their attempts to sign a highly-rated forward for Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal targeting new striker and winger this summer

The Premier League title eluded Arteta by a seismic distance last term, and sporting director Andrea Berta is working to back the Spaniard with new signings to reinforce the squad ahead of a more hopeful challenge next season.

Arsenal talks could advance in "next few days" as Berta eyes £59m signing

The Gunners have been in contact this week.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 5, 2025

The reasons behind Arsenal’s failed title bid come down to injuries and a lack of potency in the final third, with a plethora of key first-team players, including the likes of Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz, all sidelined for extended periods throughout 2024/2025.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

Gabriel Jesus’ ACL injury, sustained in an FA Cup defeat to Man United, also left Arteta without a senior natural striker for the majority of 2025. Mikel Merino was forced to play in an emergency striker role, and Berta will be determined to ensure Arsenal’s manager isn’t left so short of options next term.

Arsenal are currently working to discover the conditions of deals for both Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko, who are fresh off impressive campaigns at Sporting CP and RB Leipzig respectively (BBC).

Meanwhile, extensive groundwork is being laid when it comes to Arsenal’s pursuit of a new wide option, with Real Madrid sensation Rodrygo reported as a top target for Berta. However, talks have currently stalled due to salary demands, prompting the north Londoners to weigh up alternatives (Florian Plettenberg).

According to BBC reporter Sami Mokbel, one of those was Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo.

The Cameroonian has enjoyed the season of his life under Thomas Frank, scoring 20 goals in all competitions, but it looks highly likely that Old Trafford will be his next destination.

Negotiations have now started between United and Brentford over Mbeumo, but there is still a glimmer of hope for Arteta.

Arsenal tried to sign Bryan Mbeumo before Man United decision

Mokbel reports that Arsenal had “big” interest in Mbeumo and tried to sign him, before the African gave priority to Ruben Amorim’s side. However, if a move falls through, the BBC reporter suggests Arsenal could be there to salvage a move.

“I think Bryan Mbeumo is probably going to be ending up at Man United. I think that probably will happen,” Mokbel told Highbury Squad on YouTube.

“But I do know that Arsenal had a big interest in him and have tried. I think perhaps what Man United put on the table may be more favourable than Arsenal, and I think that perhaps that might be why he’s chosen to go to Man United.

“If the Mbeumo deal, for whatever reason, didn’t happen, I would not be surprised to see Arsenal be there or thereabouts to try to pick up the pieces of that deal.”

Reports suggest Man United have bid around £55 million for Mbeumo, but given Brentford’s valuation is actually around £60 million, there is still work to be done there.

While the 25-year-old only has a year left on his contract, Brentford possess the option to extend it by a further year, meaning they can charge a much higher fee than what you’d expect.

The Premier League has seen some world-class wingers since 1992, with Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah the current best player in the top flight.

The Egyptian King has extended his stay at Anfield and looks set to continue to light up the division, but where does Salah rank among the best wingers in Premier League history?

Ranking factors Appearances Goals Assists Titles What others have said about them 20 best wingers in Premier League history: in pictures 20 Leroy Sane Man City

Arguably one of the quickest left-wingers the Premier League has seen, Leroy Sane’s spell at Man City under Pep Guardiola was extremely successful.

The German was one of Guardiola’s first signings at the Etihad and would destroy full-backs with his pace alone, with the Spaniard calling Sane “the best wide player in the world” in 2019.

Games

90

Goals

25

Assists

28

Titles

2

19 Harry Kewell Leeds, Liverpool

After coming through Leeds United’s academy, Harry Kewell made a big impact in the Premier League with the Whites and then Liverpool between 1996-2008.

The Australian, could score all sorts of goals, beat defenders with ease and use his pace to great effect and won the Young Player of the Year in the Premier League in 1999/00.

Games

274

Goals

57

Assists

38

18 Alexis Sanchez Arsenal, Man Utd

Alexis Sanchez’s Premier League career may have been stained slightly due to how his time at Man Utd went, however, he lit up the division with Arsenal between 2014-2018.

Under Arsene Wenger, Sanchez would be the Gunners’ main man in attack, so it’s no surprise that the legendary Arsenal manager would call the Chile star a winger who has “something special”.

Games

154

Goals

63

Assists

31

17 Bukayo Saka Arsenal

Over his career, Bukayo Saka could quite easily rise up this list even higher, and he has already made a big impact for Arsenal since turning professional in 2018.

The England international has become a key player for club and country, cutting in off the right to score with his left foot on a regular basis. Regarded as one of the best attackers in the world, Saka has even been called Thierry Henry’s “favourite player” and “one of the best players in Europe” by Robert Pires.

Games

200

Goals

55

Assists

45

16 Marc Overmars Arsenal

Continuing the trend of great Arsenal wingers brings us to Marc Overmars, who would star in his first season in north London to help the club win their first Premier League title in 1997/98.

The Dutch speedster was called “world-class” by Arsene Wenger and also had great technical ability, so it wasn’t a shock when Barcelona paid big money for Overmars after three years at Highbury.

Games

100

Goals

25

Assists

14

Titles

1

15 Steve McManaman Liverpool, Man City

An academy graduate at Liverpool, Steve McManaman’s ability to dribble past defenders with ease was frightening, and he was key for the Reds out wide in the 1990s.

Going down as an arguably an underrated Liverpool legend, McManaman’s displays caught the eye of Real Madrid, where he would go on to become ‘the most successful English player to head overseas’.

Games

275

Goals

41

Assists

59

14 John Barnes Liverpool, Newcastle

John Barnes was approaching 30 years of age when the Premier League was formed, however, he arguably saved the best years of his career as a winger in the latter stages of his career.

Barnes was even called “the best player” Jamie Carragher has ever trained with and the “best finisher” ahead of Fernando Torres, Michael Owen and Robbie Fowler, which says all you need to know about how good Barnes was at Anfield.

Games

201

Goals

28

Assists

29

13 Freddie Ljungberg Arsenal, West Ham

After scoring seconds into his debut against Man Utd in 1998, Freddie Ljungberg didn’t look back and would go on to become a Premier League great.

The skilful Swedish winger would win two titles under Arsene Wenger and had a knack of scoring important goals for the Gunners. His career in north London has seen him recognised as the 11th best player in Arsenal’s history.

Games

241

Goals

48

Assists

29

Player of the Season

1

Titles

2

12 David Ginola Newcastle, Tottenham, Aston Villa, Everton

Iconic winger David Ginola lit up the Premier League in the 1990s and will be best remembered for his time at Newcastle and Tottenham, so much so he was voted PFA Player of the Year during Man Utd’s treble-winning season.

Ginola’s ability to dribble past defenders with ease was his main attribute, and he made the game look extremely easy in his prime, being named among the top 10 Frenchman to play in the Premier League.

Games

195

Goals

21

Assists

42

Player of the Season

1

11 Son Heung-min Tottenham

Son Heung-min has shown during his time at Spurs that he can do it all. Create, take defenders on, score every type of goal, the South Korea star has lit up the division for more than 10 years now.

Regarded as ‘the best finisher in world football’, Son also became the first player from Asia to score more than 100 goals in the Premier League and even won the Golden Boot with 23 goals in 35 games in 2021/22.

Games

333

Goals

127

Assists

71

Golden Boot

1

Chelsea are now eyeing a summer move for a “composed” defender, with manager Enzo Maresca believed to be a keen admirer, according to a report.

Blues eyeing centre-back amid latest Disasi update

Axel Disasi has spent the second half of the season on loan at Aston Villa, and it looks as though the 27-year-old could be heading for a permanent exit at the end of the season, with the Villans now opening talks over a summer deal.

Maresca’s side have been faring well in their pursuit of the Champions League without Disasi, and they are now just one win away from securing qualification for Europe’s elite competition next season, with the crucial trip to Nottingham Forest pencilled in for next weekend.

As such, it could make sense to sanction the Frenchman’s departure, but Maresca may be keen on bringing in a top-level replacement, should his side return to the Champions League, with FA Cup-winning captain Marc Guehi among the potential targets.

After leading his Crystal Palace side to FA Cup glory, Guehi is likely to have no shortage of interest this summer, but the 24-year-old is not the only English centre-back of interest to the west Londoners.

According to The Telegraph’s John Percy, Chelsea are now interested in signing Leicester City defender Ben Nelson, who caught the eye with his impressive performances for Oxford United in the Championship last season.

£172k-per-week star keen to join Chelsea regardless of Champions League race

He’d want the move to Stamford Bridge no strings attached.

13 ByEmilio Galantini May 17, 2025

The Blues have been keen on Nelson for quite some time, having also considered a move back in the January transfer window, and their interest seems like it stems from their manager, with Maresca believed to be an admirer.

The Italian has previously described his former player as “ideal”, while also adding: “He’s quick. He can play right or left – it’s perfect.”

"Composed" Nelson destined for the top

Not only is Maresca a big fan of the Leicester ace, but he also impressed teammate Peter Kioso during his time with the U’s, with the fellow defender saying: “Nels has come in and done what he’s needed to do. Credit to him, he’s still a young lad and I feel like he’ll go to the very top in football, just from his mentality and how he reads the game, and how composed he is.”

Player

Current club

Potential cost

Marc Guehi

Crystal Palace

£60m

Antonio Rudiger

Real Madrid

Unknown

David Hancko

Feyenoord

£42m

Ousmane Diomande

Sporting CP

£68m

The 21-year-old missed large parts of the campaign with injury problems, but he remained a key player when fit, making 17 appearances for Oxford in the Championship, featuring at centre-back on every occasion.

Having put in some solid performances in the second tier at a young age, the £5k-a-week defender may soon be ready to make the step-up to the Premier League, but Chelsea should also make sure to bring in a more experienced centre-back, having identified a number of targets.

Liverpool have lost their underdog moniker under the management of Arne Slot, who is a Premier League-winning manager in his maiden campaign.

That’s for the best. Anfield, after all, plays host to one of the best and most fearsome outfits in world football, and the powers that be will no doubt be aware Arsenal and Manchester City are ready to make sweeping changes over the summer.

It’s the full-backs, however, who have been the first port of call. Jeremie Frimpong is on the verge of completing his transfer as Trent Alexander-Arnold’s replacement, while plans have been drawn to secure a long-term star at left-back.

In something of an open secret, FSG are looking to close talks with Bournemouth for their rising talent Milos Kerkez, who is desperate to make the move to Merseyside.

Liverpool advancing in talks for Milos Kerkez

Andy Robertson became a two-time Premier League winner this year, starting 28 matches with one to spare. However, the 31-year-old is on the decline and bringing Kerkez in as his heir is a brilliant move.

Not least because the two can work together next season, the younger man absorbing the teachings of one of the modern game’s finest full-backs.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Kerkez, 21, is closing on his dream move to Merseyside, with personal terms all wrapped up and now advancing discussions with the Cherries, who have previously listed the Hungarian at £45m.

Hailed a “revelation at Bournemouth” by pundit Jamie Carragher, Kerkez is the perfect wide defender for Slot’s side, with a balanced approach, energy and tenacity, athleticism and initiative.

Kerkez would add a dimension for sure, but that’s not Liverpool done and dusted in the rearguard. Indeed, FSG may yet green-light another move for a central defender to complete a title-winning defence.

Liverpool line up new centre-back

Liverpool missed out on Dean Huijsen, the Bournemouth centre-back moving to Real Madrid despite the vested interests of the Premier League’s biggest hitters.

Huijsen isn’t the only talented defender on the market, though, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi also on the Reds’ radar.

According to GIVEMESPORT’s Dean Jones, Liverpool continue to circle for the Three Lions star, though they are joined by a host of further clubs: Chelsea, Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, Bayern Munich, Juventus.

Currently, Guehi is understood to have a market value of £50m, but after Oliver Glasner orchestrated an incredible FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, the Eagles may well look for something steeper, a fresh update that will no doubt have Liverpool and the rest chewing over.

That said, the 24-year-old is about to enter the final year of his deal, so this might be one that carries into the thick of the summer market.

What Marc Guehi would offer Liverpool

Crystal Palace signed Guehi from Chelsea for £18m in 2021, and now he is immortal.

Across 155 appearances, he’s scored eight goals and risen in reputation and actual ability to become one of England’s finest. Now, his triumph in the FA Cup has solidified his greatness in south London.

This might make it more difficult to pull him away from Glasner’s clutches, for Palace will compete in the Europa League next year, but the savvy Steve Parish runs the risk of losing his prized asset on a free if bids are turned away over the coming months.

Regarding Liverpool, Slot and co may want to exhaust every reasonable option to bring him to the club. The two-footed centre-half really could be the perfect signing alongside Kerkez, especially since he bears a likeness to Huijsen.

Matches (starts)

34 (34)

30 (25)

Goals

3

3

Assists

2

1

Touches*

64.9

64.4

Pass completion

84%

84%

Key passes*

0.5

0.5

Dribble success

86%

40%

Ball recoveries*

4.3

3.4

Tackles + interceptions*

2.6

2.9

Clearances*

4.6

6.0

Duels (won)*

4.9 (59%)

3.8 (57%)

As you can see, both players have dynamic qualities on the ball and are strong and sure in their defensive work.

But why are we discussing Real Madrid-bound Huijsen? Well, given the similarities and, dare we say, superiorities across certain areas in Guehi’s favour, it’s hard to imagine he’d be anything other than a bona fide success alongside Kerkez in the years to come.

After all, we’re talking about “one of the most impressive defensive lines in Europe,” something echoed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, whose expansive style of football under the wing of Andoni Iraola could see Kerkez dovetail right into the Liverpool scene.

Guehi, who has had a taste for success with Palace this year, is a defender catered toward the highest station. His ability to pick out promising attacks with regularity is something Huijsen has built into his efforts this year, and is something that Kerkez has indeed used to charge his exploits.

Over the past year, Guehi has established himself as a starting fixture for England, but the signs of brilliance have been there for far longer.

His former teammate at youth level for England, Josef Bursik, once remarked that the “tank” of a defender is fantastic to play with as it’s “like having a brick wall in front of you.”

With a silky ability to play out from the back, ranking among the top 9% of Premier League centre-backs this year for through balls and the top 18% for shot-creating actions per 90 (as per FBref), Guehi could thread neat balls out wide, into space, into Kerkez’s path.

It’s quite the exciting combination, one Liverpool fans may begin to salivate over given Kerkez looks pretty nailed-on to sign for Liverpool in the coming weeks.

More importantly, it’s all evidence that Liverpool, Premier League champions, aren’t resting on their laurels, and are acting like the goliath institution that they are.

Liverpool big admirers of £90m Wirtz alternative who's a Bellingham clone

Liverpool are interested in signing Florian Wirtz this summer.

2 ByMatt Dawson May 18, 2025

Ahead of what could be another busy summer at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea have now reportedly held direct talks with one European club chief over signing a £42m defender.

Chelsea making summer transfer plans

As ever, the Blues will be ones to watch this summer. Even as their Champions League qualification remains unconfirmed, those at Stamford Bridge are likely to be in a position to splash the cash in an attempt to finally put a side together capable of taking Chelsea back into the Premier League title picture.

With the summer transfer window fast-approaching too, the rumours have already been coming thick and fast. Names such as Ollie Watkins and Dean Huijsen have particularly been mentioned among the headlines in recent weeks and there’s no denying that both would hand Enzo Maresca key upgrades at opposite ends of his strongest side.

Watkins would be a particularly interesting arrival thanks to his place at Aston Villa – a direct rival for Champions League qualification. A proven goalscorer in the Premier League, the England international could finally be the answer to the Blues’ striker problems if he decides to swap the Midlands for the London club this summer.

In pursuit of a rival star, to say that Champions League qualification would go a long way towards luring such players to Stamford Bridge would be a major understatement – especially if it means that Aston Villa miss out on a place.

Whilst it’s easy for the Blues to get ahead of themselves, however, Maresca chose to remain fairly grounded when quizzed on the frantic top five battle – telling reporters: “The mood is good and I’ve said for a few weeks now that it’s a matter of how we manage emotions until the end [of the season],’ the Blues head coach explained.

Talks now set to intensify as Chelsea prepare £17m bid to sign "pacy" gem

They’ve set their sights on another young talent.

ByTom Cunningham May 3, 2025

“When we win games, we are happy and when we don’t win, we’re not happy. But it’ll be a race until the end and we need to manage the emotions. In this moment, the main thing is to watch ourselves and be focused on ourselves. This is the main point. For sure, there are more clubs involved [in the top-five race] but for us, it’s important to stay focused on ourselves.”

Chelsea step up move to sign Hato

Away from the action on the pitch, meanwhile, BlueCo have reportedly been busy. According to Dutch journalist Mike Verweij on De Telegraaf’s Kick Off podcast, Chelsea have now held direct talks with Ajax chief Alex Kroes over signing Jorrel Hato this summer.

The teenage full-back has enjoyed an impressive campaign in the Netherlands and BlueCo are now reportedly set to step up their chase for his signature in a deal worth £42m this summer. Adding competition for Marc Cucurella in the process, Hato would go a long way towards handing Maresca a complete squad.

Praised for an “excellent” season by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, Hato looks likely to be one to watch as Chelsea push to welcome yet another young talent this summer.

With their entire season now hinging on the Champions League, it’s obvious where Arsenal need to strengthen this summer: attack.

Mikel Arteta’s side still boast the best defence in the Premier League, and with Martin Zubimendi looking like he will be joining Declan Rice in midfield this summer, it’s evident that up top is where the Gunners are lacking.

The club must share this sentiment, as the last few months have seen a whole host of strikers touted for moves to the Emirates, with Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak being one of the most significant and consistent.

However, with stories suggesting he could cost up to an eye-watering £150m, it’s a move that feels out of reach, which could explain recent reports linking the North Londoners to another free-scoring forward who’d be the perfect answer to the Toon star.

Arsenal's striker search

With Arsenal clearly needing a new centre-forward this summer, it’s worth looking at some of the other names that have been linked with them recently, such as Benjamin Sesko.

Transfer Focus

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

The Slovenian international has long been touted for a move to the Emirates, but the £58m links feel that bit more substantial this time, and considering he’s already racked up 20 goals and six assists this season, he’d surely be a great addition to the squad.

Someone who wouldn’t cost the Gunners a penny in transfer fees is Jonathan David. The Canadian international’s contract with LOSC Lille comes to an end in the summer, and with an incredible track record of 96 goals and provided 24 assists in his last 181 club appearances, he’d be an unreal free agent.

However, if Arteta and Co want a genuine answer to Isak’s game-changing abilities this summer, they’ll need a statement signing of their own, which is where Viktor Gyokeres comes in.

According to a recent report from GIVEMESPORT, the Gunners are now ready to ‘up the ante in their pursuit’ of the Swedish international.

In fact, the report has revealed that the North Londoners have made him their ‘main focus’ ahead of the transfer window and are set to hold talks with his representatives about a move.

It’s a move that could reportedly cost Arsenal around £70m, and while that is a lot of money, this is a deal they should be looking to conclude as soon as possible, as he might be the perfect answer to Isak.

Why Gyokeres is Arsenal's perfect answer to Isak

Okay, the first and most obvious reason Gyokeres could be the perfect answer to Isak for Arsenal is his price tag.

With him potentially costing £80m less than the Toon star, his transfer wouldn’t completely disrupt the club’s other recruitment plans for the summer, in turn allowing Arteta to sign another winger and possibly a further, up-and-coming attacker who could be slowly introduced into the side.

On top of costing far less than the former Real Sociedad star, the Sporting “powerhouse”, as dubbed by data analyst Ben Mattinson, is also far sturdier and more reliable.

For example, throughout his entire career, the former Coventry City star has missed just five games for club and country, and one of those was so that he could rest.

In stark contrast, the Magpies’ talismanic marksman has missed a staggering 67 games for club and country, which, for someone who is still only 25, is more than a slight concern.

Appearances

39

48

Minutes

3054′

3858′

Goals

26

52

Assists

6

12

Goal Involvements per Match

0.82

1.33

Minutes per Goal Involvement

95.43′

60.28′

Finally, when it comes down to their raw output, the Stockholm-born “monster,” as dubbed by Mattinson, actually blows the Newcastle ace out of the water.

For example, in just 48 appearances, totalling 3858 minutes, he’s scored 52 goals and provided 12 assists for Sporting, which comes out at a staggering average of 1.33 goal involvements per game, or one every 60.28 minutes.

In contrast, Isak has scored 26 goals and provided six assists in 39 appearances, totalling 3054 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.21 games, or every 95.43 minutes.

Granted, the latter is playing in a far harder league, but the sheer amount of goals scored by the former is out of this world.

Ultimately, while Gyokeres is not yet proven in the Premier League, he’s set to cost £80m less than Isak while having a far better injury record and significantly better goal involvement to game ratio.

Therefore, Arsenal should do all they can to sign the Sporting CP star this summer, as he’s the perfect answer to the Toon titan.

Their new Sanchez: Arsenal weighing up bid for "unstoppable" £40m star

Arsenal could sign their new Alexis Sanchez this summer.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Apr 29, 2025

Arsenal are now keen on signing an “incredible” £50m forward, who could be a “great fit” for Mikel Arteta’s side, but there is set to be competition from Liverpool, according to a report.

Gunners set to strengthen attacking options

The Gunners have done incredibly well to reach the Champions League semi-final, given that they have been without a striker since Kai Havertz suffered a hamstring injury in February, but it is near certain a new forward will be brought in this summer.

That is according to Fabrizio Romano, who has now stated a new striker “will arrive” at the Emirates Stadium, with the north Londoners identifying the likes of Benjamin Sesko, Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres as potential targets.

Not only that, but Arteta is seemingly eager to strengthen out wide too, with a bid for Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams now in the works, while they could also snap up Bayern Munich’s Kingsley Coman for a fee of just £30m.

Arsenal hold initial talks to sign bargain striker with 176 career goals

Mikel Arteta’s side have reached out to another player.

2 ByEmilio Galantini Apr 20, 2025

There is certainly no shortage of targets for Arsenal, and a report from The Sun has now revealed they could look to raid one of their Premier League rivals, with Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo of interest, but there will be competition for his signature.

Newcastle United and Liverpool are also keen on a move for the 25-year-old – he is thought to be Magpies director Paul Mitchell’s dream target so the Gunners could throw a spanner in the works by hijacking a move instead of going for Isak.

Mbeumo’s current contract is set to expire in the summer of 2026, and he will not come cheap with the Bees looking to receive a fee of around £50m for his services, while there is an option for the Cameroonian to extend his stay by an extra year.

"Incredible" Mbeumo could be "great fit" for Arsenal

Amid links with a move to north London in the January transfer window, Robbie Lyle from AFTV stated he could be a “great fit” for the Gunners, and his performances this season indicate he could be a fantastic signing.

The France-born forward has scored a remarkable 18 goals in the Premier League, the joint-fourth highest total in the division, while also providing six assists, indicating he is more than ready for a move to a top club.

Most recently, the right-winger showcased his finishing ability by picking up a brace and an assist in his side’s impressive 4-2 win over Brighton & Hove Albion.

Lauded as “incredible” by reporter Dom Smith, Mbeumo could take Arsenal’s attack to the next level, but he may have to move to the left wing if he is to receive regular game time, given that very few players in the world are capable of displacing Bukayo Saka.