All posts by z3u9t.icu

Manchester United have previously been a club associated with being the home to numerous top-level attackers who have helped aid their success in the Premier League.

However, the last few years have been a struggle for the Red Devils, with Ruben Amorim unable to create a frontline capable of achieving success in various competitions.

His side only registered 44 goals in England’s top-flight throughout 2024/25, with no player able to register double figures for goals, with Amad and Bruno Fernandes both only scoring eight times.

Such a record was the fifth worst in the division, with three of the sides registering fewer goals subsequently being relegated – highlighting the club’s lack of success in such an area.

One of the players who struggled at Old Trafford during the aforementioned campaign was offloaded during the recent window, with such a decision potentially being a mistake given his form as of late.

Rasmus Hojlund’s form away from United

Back in the summer of 2023, United forked out a fee in the region of £72m for striker Rasmus Hojlund from Italian side Atalanta, with real hope he could end their goalscoring worries.

The Dane did manage to meet expectations in his first year in England, scoring 16 times across all competitions, with five of his efforts coming in the Champions League.

However, he struggled to impress in 2024/25, only netting five Premier League goals, even going 21 games without a goal at one stage, which further highlights his lack of impact in the final third.

The Red Devils board decided to ship him back to Serie A, with the forward joining Napoli on a season-long loan with an obligation to buy should they finish in a Champions League spot.

Hojlund has already managed to impress in Naples, already scoring four times in his first six outings for the club – including a double in Europa against Sporting CP.

His form has also transferred to international level, as seen by his latest showing against Belarus, where the 22-year-old netted twice and also laid on an assist for former teammate Patrick Dorgu.

Despite his recent success on the pitch, he’s still valued lower than one current United player who’s managed to find some impressive form over the last couple of weeks.

The United player who’s worth more than Hojlund

In an attempt to bolster the club’s attacking department, the United hierarchy splashed over £200m on new attacking talent during the recent summer transfer window.

Matheus Cunha joined in a £62.5m deal from Wolverhampton Wanderers after he scored 15 goals in England’s top-flight during the 2024/25 campaign.

The Brazilian was also joined in attacking areas by Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, with the Cameroonian international also costing a pretty penny at £71m.

Like Cunha, he also managed to impress last time around, subsequently scoring 20 times and being one of just five players in the division to achieve such a feat.

The aforementioned duo were joined by centre forward Benjamin Sesko, leading to the board forking out £74m for his signature from Bundesliga outfit RB Leipzig.

At just 22, he’s already impressed in his professional career, as seen by his tally of 21 goals in all competitions last season – 13 of which came in Germany’s top-flight.

He has bags of time to develop into an elite-level forward, but he’s already shown glimpses of his quality during the early games of his career at Old Trafford.

Games played

7

Goals scored

2

Shots on target

1.4

Chances created

1.2

Aerials won

3.7

Touches in opposition box

4.2

Duels won

4.9

Fouls won

1.6

Sesko, who’s been labelled “incredible” by one analyst, has scored in each of his last two outings for the Red Devils, currently sitting as the club’s joint top scorer in the Premier League for the 2025/26 campaign.

His underlying stats also demonstrate his impressive nature, winning 3.7 aerial duels per 90 – a tally which makes him the perfect focal point for Amorim’s side – something which they have lacked in recent times.

As a result of his immediate impact in Manchester, Sesko has seen his market value soar in recent months, with the Slovenian international now valued at £103.6m by CIES Football Observatory.

Such a value is higher than that of the departed Hojlund, with the Dane now only valued at £67.9m by the same site after his recent demise at Old Trafford.

The early signs for the new big-money addition are all positive, but it’s crucial he continues to build on his early success at avoiding suffering the same fate as the Dane.

As for the latter, it’s great to see the youngster regaining his feet after a tricky few years in the North West, but his departure could be one the Red Devils live to regret.

Man Utd have signed a "machine" who looks like a new Bruno-type player

Man Utd look like they’ve snapped up the next Bruno Fernandes at Old Trafford…

3 ByJoe Nuttall Oct 10, 2025

A title-winning manager once described as the “best coach in the world” has been mentioned as an option for Manchester United, should Ruben Amorim lose his job.

Amorim positive after Man Utd's win over Sunderland

The Red Devils picked up a vital three points in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon, overcoming Sunderland 2-0 at Old Trafford, thanks to goals from Mason Mount and Benjamin Sesko.

Speaking after the game, Amorim assessed a positive day at the office for United, with the Portuguese potentially even saving his job by winning.

“That is the kind of game where when we are not playing well, we are defending well. Today was not a perfect performance. We had our moments. Senne [Lammens] did really well also. We were competitive and an adult team today. We need to win these games and win clean sheets.”

For United and their manager, this really did feel like a must-win game, with dropped points at home to a newly-promoted team feeling disastrous, even though Sunderland have been in good form.

There’s now a two-week break before the Red Devils make the trip to Liverpool after the international break, and while Amorim is safe for now, other managers continue to be linked with his job.

Barcelona legend Xavi waiting for Man Utd job, snubs Saudi offers

According to Caught Offside, Barcelona legend Xavi “could be a name to watch” for Manchester United, should the club part ways with Amorim, with the Spaniard seemingly “waiting” for the job.

The 45-year-old is said to be keen on the idea of managing in England, and has “instructed his representatives to reject offers from Saudi Pro League clubs”.

Xavi would be an interesting option for United, having won the La Liga title with Barca in 2022/23, years after a legendary playing career there. He adopts an attacking 4-3-3 formation, which could go down well with supporters who don’t like Amorim’s 3-4-3 system, and Barca president Joan Laporta once heaped huge praise on him back in 2022.

“I am very lucky to have the best coach in the world, because Xavi, in addition to his great football knowledge, is a man who is always very interesting to listen to with his reasoning, who is also a club man and is very aligned with the club. We share moments together, and also we share much of everything that is being done, and I feel very accompanied and supported with Xavi and all his staff.”

Despite this, United have to be careful not to keep jumping from manager to manager, and should only hire a new head coach if they genuinely feel he is a vastly superior option to Amorim.

100% passing, 8 duels won: Man Utd star just outshone Mount & Sesko

Man Utd were 2-0 victors over Sunderland on Saturday afternoon

ByJoe Nuttall Oct 4, 2025

The Red Devils’ current boss clearly needs to do better, but it is easy to envisage a scenario where Xavi comes in and also finds it hard. He could excel, in fairness, and is a legendary figure in the game, but holding fire for now is arguably the best option.

Chelsea must watch on from afar as a highly-rated former starlet aims to make a name for himself at Premier League rivals Liverpool, and those within Stamford Bridge were left ‘shocked’ after his departure.

The Blues’ penchant for attracting world football’s most dazzling young talents has been a key theme of their business in recent years.

Cole Palmer

7.33

Moises Caicedo

7.02

Enzo Fernández

6.95

Nicolas Jackson

6.88

Noni Madueke

6.82

via WhoScored

Ever since Todd Boehly/Clearlake Capital’s takeover in 2022, Chelsea have broken records for the number of youngsters in their squad, with OptaJoe revealing Enzo Maresca fielded the youngest ever starting eleven in Premier League history last season.

Despite some calls for Chelsea to sign players with more experience, this theme is unlikely to change any time soon. This window alone, Maresca has seen Dario Essugo, Estevão Willian, Mamadou Sarr, Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens, Kendry Páez and Jorrel Hato join the club, with the oldest of them being only 22.

Chelsea are also in talks to sign both Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho, according to Sky Sports, while Football Transfers reported earlier this week that Maresca could sign another ‘exciting youngster’ too if one becomes available before the deadline.

BlueCo’s youth obsession is no accident – it’s their masterplan.

Chelsea have poured over £1 billion into signing the world’s brightest upcoming stars – stacking their future with talent before it hits peak value.

On the pitch, it means building a squad that can evolve together. The club’s average age will continue to be one of the lowest in Europe – with Maresca’s system set to potentially thrive on energy and development.

He’s now got a group hungry to prove themselves, not fading stars on bloated wages.

However, Chelsea’s desire to grow a roster rich with world football’s most promising starlets doesn’t mean everyone will be along for the ride.

Chelsea annoyed after losing Rio Ngumoha to Liverpool

Last summer, promising teenager Rio Ngumoha swapped west London for Anfield, and Chelsea were reminded of that fact when the 16-year-old scored a brilliant solo goal in the first of a double-header against Athletic Bilbao earlier this week.

The winger became Liverpool’s second-youngest ever senior debutant against Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup last term, and many are wondering whether Arne Slot is planning a first-team role for him after an excellent pre-season.

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, speaking to TBR Football, Chelsea have maintained a frustration after losing Nguhoma to Liverpool, and were left shocked by his move up north.

“Chelsea know how good Ngumoha is. They were annoyed to lose him. It was a real frustration for them to see him walk away,” said Bailey.

“They know losing players is part and parcel of the academy system now – you just have to make sure you have more wins than losses.

“However – within football – Ngumoha was a name that everyone knew about. He had offers from everywhere, but Chelsea were shocked that he left.

“Now he is impressing at Liverpool, it is fair to say that Chelsea’s annoyance is not going away – but to see him become a success is not a shock to anyone at Stamford Bridge.”

The London-born attacking gem is certainly one to watch, with John Terry once calling him a “top player” and tipping Nguhoma for stardom.

Newcastle United supporters are starting to get excited ahead of next season.

On Friday, Anthony Elanga was unveiled as the Magpies’ first summer signing, arriving from Nottingham Forest for a reported fee of £55m.

Now, will Eddie Howe add more attacking firepower to his front line?

Newcastle's search for a new striker

Elanga’s arrival makes him the second-most expensive signing in Newcastle United history, behind only compatriot Alexander Isak.

Alexander Isak

2022

Real Sociedad

£63m

Anthony Elanga

2025

Nottingham Forest

£55m

Sandro Tonali

2023

AC Milan

£55m

Anthony Gordon

2023

Everton

£45m

Joelinton

2019

Hoffenheim

£40m

Harvey Banres

2023

Leicester City

£38m

Sven Botman

2022

LOSC Lille

£35m

Bruno Guimarães

2022

Olympique Lyonnais

£33.5m

Tino Livramento

2023

Southampton

£32m

Now though, the Toon Army could be about to spend big again because, as reported by Craig Hope of the Daily Mail, Newcastle are exploring a move to sign Brentford striker Yoane Wissa.

The DR Congo international is also reportedly a target for Tottenham, with Sam Tabuteau and Dom Smith of the Evening Standard noting that the Bees value him at around £50m.

The other striker on the Magpies’ list is Hugo Ekitiké but, as documented by Luke Edwards of the Telegraph, Eintracht Frankfurt are only prepared to sell the Frenchman for his £86m release clause, so could Wissa become Newcastle’s primary target?

Why Yoane Wissa would improve Newcastle

Wissa joined Brentford from Lorient in the summer of 2021, following the Bees’ promotion to the Premier League, for a reported fee of £8.5m and, fair to say, this has proved to be money well spent.

He has scored 49 goals in 149 appearances for the West London-based club, bagging 19 in the Premier League last season, a tally only bettered by Mohamed Salah, Isak, Erling Haaland, Chris Wood and teammate Bryan Mbeumo.

Then-Brentford manager Thomas Frank described Wissa as a “super player”, adding “he’s got that nose for goals”.

Meantime, Mark Bruce of Breaking the Lines believes he is the most underrated forward in the Premier League, outlining his threat as a penalty box poacher.

So, let’s take a deeper dive into his statistics.

Minutes

2,919

53rd

Goals

19

6th

Non-penalty goals

19

=2nd

Expected goals

18.5

4th

Shots

90

10th

Shots on target

41

5th

Touches in the box

163

14th

As the table outlines, Wissa is a top-level penalty-box striker, ranked joint-second in the Premier League for non-penalty goals last season, despite being down in tenth in terms of shots, underlining his clinical edge.

This would make him a dream signing for new man Elanga, given his proficiency when it comes to chance-creation, as documented in the table below.

Assists

11

3rd

Completed crosses

8

52nd

Shot-creating actions

102

30th

Goal-creating actions

18

6th

Big chances created

9

38th

Progressive carries

102

25th

As emphasised by the numbers, only two players, namely Salah and new teammate Jacob Murphy, registered more assists than Elanga in the Premier League last season, while the Swede also ranked very highly when it comes to chances created and progressive carries.

He formed an exceptional partnership with a former Magpie, the aforementioned Wood, firing Nottingham Forest into Europe, so he could do the same with Wissa in the North East.

Thus, should Newcastle get a deal over the line to sign the DR Congo international striker, he and fellow new recruit Elanga could form an unstoppable partnership.

Agent of £70m+ striker contacts Newcastle, scored 50+ more goals than Ekitike

The Magpies could face an intriguing proposal.

BySean Markus Clifford Jul 13, 2025

Darwin Nunez is held in high regard at Liverpool. It’s perhaps the fanbase’s predilection toward their Uruguayan, once billed as a club-record man, that has kept him on the books for so long. Another personality to have followed his pathway might not receive the same warmth, encouragement.

Certainly, he flattered to deceive across his maiden term in the Premier League, only scoring nine goals after being entrusted with a starring role by Jurgen Klopp, who was enamoured by Nunez’s 2021/22 Champions League campaign with Benfica.

He improved the following year, notching 32 goal contributions across all competitions and lifting the Carabao Cup during a resurgent year for club and player. But there was still something missing.

The arrival of Arne Slot bespoke a new chapter, and it was something Nunez needed to harness. However, the 25-year-old is now for sale after his third term on Merseyside, having scored only seven goals last season, awarded just the one start in the league since Boxing Day.

At times unstoppable; always unpredictable. But Nunez is a maverick even to the inner workings of his own mind, and he’s proved a nut too tough to crack even for Slot.

Liverpool need a new striker. That’s clear.

Liverpool planning to sign a new striker

It was something of a surprise when news broke on Monday evening that Newcastle United are looking to close a deal for Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike.

Liverpool fans might be excited by this, even though Ekitike has been among FSG’s top targets this summer, for it casts Alexander Isak’s future at St. James’ Park into some kind of doubt. Could the two truly cohabit at number nine for the Magpies?

But the Sweden star is valued at £200m, and the Reds might have been inclined to turn their attention to Viktor Gyokeres, who had scored 97 goals across two seasons for Sporting Lisbon.

Alas, Isak’s international teammate is bound for Arsenal.

However, Liverpool’s list of options at the front of the ship extends further than the aforementioned, with one of Europe’s most prolific marksmen on the radar.

Indeed, according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, that list has Victor Osimhen’s name on it, with Napoli desperate to offload the Nigeria international this summer. A breakdown in his relationship with the Neapolitan outfit led to the forward’s departure on loan to Galatasaray last summer.

Osimhen is believed to have a price tag in the region of £60m, and while Galatasaray are pushing to seal the 26-year-old on a permanent deal, Liverpool’s financial and sporting advantages could hold sway, should sporting director Richard Hughes wish to take the interest up a gear.

Why Liverpool should sign Victor Osimhen

Liverpool know that Luis Diaz could leave Anfield this summer, with Bayern Munich having seen an official proposal knocked back and the Colombian hoping to complete a move away.

If he goes, Liverpool will need to sign a high-cost replacement. That plays into the attractiveness of a deal for Osimhen, who is comparatively affordable.

Moreover, he’s proven across a number of years in Ligue 1 and the Italian top flight, actually winning the Serie A in 2022/23, crowned the Italian Players’ Player of the Year after his 26-goal campaign.

Last season, the 27-year-old Gyokeres, on paper, might have outstripped his African positional peer somewhat, but Osimhen still forged a stunning season for himself, and he’s proven at a higher level than Arsenal’s new recruit, who is older besides.

In fact, take Ekitike into the equation too, and you can see that Osimhen really might be the one to go for between the two.

Matches (starts)

29 (27)

33 (31)

33 (31)

Goals

26

15

39

Assists

5

8

7

Touches*

26.4

35.0

40.0

Shots (on target)*

4.7 (1.9)

3.5 (1.5)

4.2 (2.4)

Big chances missed

25

16

23

Accurate passes

7.9 (67%)

14.5 (76%)

15.0 (73%)

Big chances created

11

12

11

Key passes*

1.1

1.3

1.9

Dribbles*

0.8

1.6

1.8

Duels (won)*

5.7 (55%)

4.2 (41%)

5.5 (50%)

Liverpool might be frustrated by Newcastle’s ostensible advantage in the race for Ekitike, but the Frenchman is a raw and unfinished article, albeit one with plenty of blank script to write a glowing career for himself.

But Osimhen is proven, tried and tested. He’s one of the best in the business, with statistician Statman Dave even declaring him as “the best striker on the market” earlier in 2025.

Signing one of Ekitike or Isak is no doubt a tantalising thought for those of a Liverpool persuasion, but it’s one which may not come to fruition.

And even so, with sights set on Osimhen, who is without a doubt more complete and accomplished than Ekitike at this point in time and has the tools to rival Newcastle’s talisman on English shores.

It’s what Liverpool need to stay ahead of the curve. They’ve had high potential. They’ve invested in Nunez. And now, with the Uruguay international heading off for pastures new, the Reds need someone capable of leading the line with the conviction and quality of a world-class player, willing to throw down the gauntlet and challenge Gyokeres, Isak and Erling Haaland for that prized position.

He’s a “monster” in the final third, as described by analyst Ben Mattinson, with a strong-sinew physicality and a deceptively mobile approach which denotes his suitability in Slot’s system, willing to interchange and create required, creating some layered and shifting frontline that will overwhelm opponents, keep defenders guessing.

It would be a mistake to enter the new season with Nunez still inserted as Liverpool’s leading striker. Oh, he’s well-liked and at times a chaotic bundle of energy, but Slot must be ruthless if he’s to defend his Premier League title, with rivals only strengthening this summer. Gyokeres is evidence of that.

Luckily, Liverpool’s head coach has had no problem making a tough call for the greater good of his team thus far.

Better than Wirtz: Liverpool preparing £113m bid to sign superstar winger

Liverpool could sign another marquee player this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 15, 2025

It’s been a hectic couple of weeks for Arsenal.

After watching their Premier League rivals make signing after signing, the Gunners are finally starting to make a splash in the transfer window.

For example, after months of speculation, Martin Zubimendi was finally announced yesterday morning, and then, if that wasn’t enough, a deluge of reports suggesting a deal for Viktor Gyokeres is close also emerged.

Moreover, the Gunners are now getting close to securing the services of a Premier League star, someone who’d be a far better signing than Noni Madueke.

Arsenal looking at signing another Premier League star

While most of the links to players this summer, and the two signings already confirmed, have been met with positivity from the general fan base, the same can’t be said for links to Madueke.

Transfer Focus

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

It was revealed late last week that the Gunners had already reached an agreement on personal terms with the Chelsea player.

There is no denying that the winger is talented, but he’s hardly blown anyone away in West London, and at a potential price tag of £50m, it’s easy to understand why many fans might look at him as a misuse of funds.

Fortunately, the North Londoners are also reportedly closing in on a deal for another Premier League star, someone who’d be a far better signing than Madueke: Eberechi Eze.

At least that is according to David Ornstein, who, on a recent episode of The Athletic’s podcast, reaffirmed reports that Arsenal are highly interested in signing the Crystal Palace star this summer.

Ornstein reveals that he is now one of the club’s top target and is now seriously high in their consideration this summer. Moreover, he revealed that “they’ve held some conversations” with the player’s camp, and that they would like to sign him for under his release clause of £68m.

However, the Eagles are understandably keen on receiving the full fee to sell their talismanic attacker this summer.

It could be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given Eze’s ability, it’s one Arsenal should fight for, especially as he’d be a far better signing than Madueke.

Why Eze would be a far better signing than Madueke

Okay, so the first thing to say is that, yes, Eze and Madueke do operate in different areas of the pitch, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that the former would be a far better signing than the latter.

The first reason is down to their respective output, as in 43 appearances last season, totalling 3303 minutes, the Palace ace scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists.

That means he averaged a goal involvement every 1.72 games, or every 132.12 minutes, and, on top of that, he scored important goals, such as the winner in the FA Cup.

In contrast, the Chelsea ace racked up a tally of 11 goals and five assists in 45 games, totalling 2625 minutes, which comes out to a far less impressive average of a goal involvement every 2.81 games, or every 164.06 minutes.

The second reason the Eagles’ “superstar,” as dubbed by respected analyst Ben Mattinson, would be a better signing is their underlying numbers.

Non-Penalty G+As

0.52

0.44

Progressive Passes

3.37

3.05

Progressive Carries

2.40

6.81

Key Passes

2.01

1.42

Passes into the Final Third

1.70

0.71

Live Passes

29.5

29.2

Shot-Creating Actions

4.69

3.50

Goal-Creating Actions

0.35

0.35

Successful Take-Ons

2.33

1.99

Tackles

1.35

1.11

Ball Recoveries

5.07

3.72

For example, when we take a look under the hood, the former QPR gem comes out on top in practically every relevant metric, such as non-penalty goals plus assists, key passes and successful take-ons.

These statistics demonstrate that, in addition to scoring goals, the 27-year-old is a brilliant creator and someone who can generate chances through his passing and carrying abilities.​​​​​

Ultimately, if Arsenal can only afford to sign one other attacking star from the Premier League this summer, then they have to go with Eze, as he’s simply better than Madueke in every meaningful way.

Talks open: Arsenal submit offer to sign "standout" 17 y/o after Zubimendi

The midfielder is the Gunners’ second summer signing.

ByTom Cunningham Jul 7, 2025

Newcastle United and iconic centre-forwards go hand in hand. Both Hughie Gallacher and Jackie Milburn made massive impressions for the club during the first half of the 20th century.

The former helped the Magpies win the First Division title in 1926/27 and scored 143 goals in 174 matches, while the latter scored 200 goals for the club and won three FA Cups during his spell in the north-east.

The 1970s saw Malcolm Macdonald emerge as the next big thing, before Kevin Keegan and Peter Beardsley made their mark during the 80s.

Andy Cole’s spell on Tyneside was short, but boy was it sweet. He netted 68 goals in just 84 matches, but departed for Manchester United after only two years.

Elsewhere, Alan Shearer goes down as the best centre-forward in the club’s history. His ten-year stint with his boyhood team might have finished trophyless, but the Englishman broke Milburn’s scoring record in February 2006.

Supporters of the current generation have Alexander Isak, and what an impression he has made during his three years at Newcastle.

Alexander Isak’s Newcastle record

Eddie Howe made Isak the club’s record signing when he splashed out a staggering £63m to bring the Swedish hitman to the Premier League.

Fast-forward three years and the move is arguably one of the finest in the club’s recent history. Since joining, Isak has registered 73 goal contributions – 62 goals and 11 assists – across just 109 matches.

He may have suffered from injury issues during his first campaign, but ever since, Isak has been a goal machine.

The 25-year-old enjoyed his best season yet during 2024/25. A tally of 27 goals in 42 appearances helped the Toon secure a Champions League place next season.

Furthermore, he also scored in the League Cup final against Liverpool, ending the club’s 70-year major domestic trophy drought. There is no doubt he will go down as one of the finest strikers in the history of the club.

Metric

2022/23

2023/24

2024/25

Goals

10

21

23

Assists

1

2

6

Shots per game

2.3

2.6

2.9

Goal conversion percentage

20%

27%

23%

Key passes per game

0.7

0.9

1.2

Compared to his positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues, Isak ranks in the top 8% for progressive carries and successful take-ons per 90 over the previous 365 days, while also ranking in the top 12% for non-penalty goals during the same period.

These statistics suggest that Isak is one of the best strikers on the continent and the longer Howe can keep hold of him, the better.

Of course, his performances have caught the eye of several teams, Liverpool included. The Anfield side have earmarked the 25-year-old as their number one striker target.

The Magpies are demanding a British record transfer fee of around £150m for the sale of Isak, which Howe will hope puts many teams off.

Regardless if he moves or not, Isak’s form over the previous three seasons places him in the bracket of one of the club’s most impressive signings of recent times.

Might Howe be looking to land the club their biggest signing since with a move for a current Premier League star?

Newcastle's search for a new forward

Despite actively looking to bolster their squad ahead of another campaign filled with European football, Howe hasn’t had much luck in the transfer market thus far.

He has targeted moves for both Anthony Elanga and James Trafford, but deals have yet to materialise for the pair.

One move which may be close to finally being sealed is that of Joao Pedro. According to the Chronicle, Newcastle are now in advanced talks to sign the Brighton and Hove Albion star.

Discussions have been ongoing this week. The Magpies valued Pedro at around the £50m mark, although Brighton are holding out for a fee closer to £60m.

It would be an excellent first signing to make this summer for Howe, especially considering that the Brazilian has plenty of experience in the Premier League and will be ready to hit the ground running.

Dare I say it, but he might be the biggest signing the club have made since Isak.

Why Newcastle must sign Joao Pedro

The Magpies have made some impressive signings since the arrival of Isak in the summer of 2022.

Anthony Gordon joined the club in January 2023, while Sandro Tonali followed that summer. Both have since proven they are excellent signings, but Pedro’s arrival could take the club to new heights.

Since making the move to England more than five years ago, the forward has scored 54 goals and grabbed 18 assists across spells with both Watford and Brighton. For comparison, Gordon had scored just seven goals in 78 games at Everton, prior to making the switch.

In the Premier League, 32 of these goal involvements were recorded, indicating that he will have no problem performing in the top flight under Howe; that much is certain.

When compared to his positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues, Pedro ranks highly over a range of performance metrics.

Indeed, not only does he rank in the top 12% for assists (0.28) and shot-creating actions (3.33) per 90, but the Brazilian also ranks in the top 4% for progressive passes (3.6) and for progressive carries (3.05) per 90 over the previous 365 days.

These stats prove that while he is a major threat in the opposition penalty box, Pedro is also capable of generating chances for others while successfully getting the ball into dangerous areas.

He was even hailed by commentator Kevin Hatchard for his “magical” ability on the ball, and this is a move that Howe must be desperate to get over the line sooner rather than later.

If so, it will surely give the whole club a major boost. The St James’ Park faithful will hope that once one player has been signed, the rest will follow.

Keeping Isak will be vital if Newcastle want to go far in the Champions League next term, while aiming for another trophy win.

Should an offer too good to turn down arrive, however, Pedro would make for a more than able replacement heading into the 2024/25 campaign.

Self proclaimed "world-class" star has now "agreed" terms to join Newcastle

The Magpies finally look to be getting their man.

2 ByHenry Jackson Jun 27, 2025

Amid rumours that they’ve joined the race to sign Hugo Ekitike, Manchester United are now reportedly considering a summer swoop to sign another Bundesliga star for Ruben Amorim.

Man Utd join Ekitike race

Despite finishing as low as 15th in the Premier League and missing out on European qualification, Manchester United have still managed to put themselves in interesting conversations this summer. The Manchester United name seemingly still carries strong and has already convinced Matheus Cunha to arrive from Wolverhampton Wanderers. But INEOS are not done there.

According to recent reports, the Red Devils have now joined the race to sign Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer. The German club value their forward at a hefty £84m but that has not been enough to deter those at Old Trafford from making their approach in an attempt to beat rivals Liverpool to a summer deal.

Minutes

2,563

2,004

1,402

Goals

15

4

3

Assists

8

0

1

Expected Goals

21.6

5.3

4.8

It’s easy to see why Manchester United are interested in Ekitike. The Frenchman outscored Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee combined last season and whilst his underperformance when it comes to XG may be a concern, there’s no denying that he’d be an instant upgrade on Amorim’s current options.

Of course, it’s at Old Trafford that Ekitike could form an impressive partnership with Cunha. The Brazilian was officially unveiled as a Manchester United player earlier this week and told the club’s media channels: “It is the most common phrase that you can say at this moment, but this is the dream come true. Maybe outside, I think maybe my decision, they don’t understand. But when you have always dreamed to play here, it’s easier to pick this decision.”

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After Cunha and perhaps even after Ekitike, however, INEOS could still be on the hunt for fresh faces, which could yet include a Bayern Munich defender.

Man Utd considering Kim Min-jae move

According to Bild reporter Christian Falk, Manchester United are now considering a move to sign Kim Min-jae from Bayern Munich this summer. The defender is set to fall down the pecking order in Germany following the arrival of Jonathan Tah and could, therefore, be on the move in the coming months.

Falk told Caught Offside: “No decision has yet been made on Kim Min-jae’s future. There have also been no negotiations with the player’s side. But, there is interest from Saudi Arabia. Kim has not ruled it out.

“However, we are still waiting to see whether Liverpool and Manchester United become concrete. There are also rumours that the two Premier League clubs are interested. The fact is: FC Bayern can imagine a sale. However, there is still no offer for the defender.”

Dubbed a “technical leader” by former Manchester United midfielder Park Ji-sung, Min-jae could solve Amorim’s defensive problems once and for all by completing a summer move to revive his career following Bayern frustration.

Having initially cost the Bavarians around €50m (£43m) in 2023, however, there will be big questions as to how much they will demand to sell their centre-back this summer.

Chelsea are one of the busiest Premier League sides this transfer window, with just days remaining for Enzo Maresca and BlueCo to register new players in time for the Club World Cup.

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Work is happening behind-the-scenes at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea attempting to bring one or two more signings through the door before they kick off their CWC campaign on June 16 against Leon (Simon Phillips).

Rank

Team

Points

GD

Man City

71

+28

Chelsea

69

+21

Newcastle

66

+21

6

Aston Villa

66

+7

7

Nottingham Forest

65

+12

It is believed that the west Londoners are laying the groundwork on potential deals for wingers and attacking midfielders as one key item on their agenda. Chelsea held talks with the representatives of Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams last week, and informed the Spaniard’s camp that they’re prepared to pay his £50 million release clause.

As well as the 22-year-old, Kenan Yildiz (Juventus), Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace), Jeremy Doku (Man City), Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa), Max Tillman (PSV), Jamie Gittens (Borussia Dortmund), Alejandro Garnacho (Man United) are all reportedly on Chelsea’s shortlist of wide-attacking targets.

Chelsea are expected to sign a centre-back too, amid links to Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, and they’re currently in talks with AC Milan over a deal for French international goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

The 29-year-old’s contract expires next summer, and this situation has alerted Chelsea to a potential upgrade on Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen.

However, there is still a major gap when it comes to price, so the west Londoners are prepared to walk away and stick with what they have if Milan don’t lower their demands.

That being said, even if the clubs are failing to find common ground right now, Chelsea do have the player’s approval.

Mike Maignan gives green-light to join Chelsea from AC Milan

According to Football Italia, Maignan has given his green-light to join Chelsea, with the Frenchman approving a switch to Cobham as he ponders life after the San Siro.

The outlet adds that a formal bid is expected to arrive from Chelsea “in the near future”, and if they can reach an agreement on Maignan’s final asking price, he could depart the Rossoneri “in the coming days”.

There is no doubt he would be a stellar addition between the sticks, with Liverpool star Alisson believing Maignan is in the “elite” bracket of keepers. Milan are also eyeing up Torino number one Vanja Milinkovic-Savic in the event they do lose their star shot-stopper.

This saga definitely appears one to watch over the next week, and it could prompt BlueCo to undergo a major goalkeeping reshuffle considering Chelsea’s backlog of five keepers already on their books.

It’s all gone a bit quiet at Rangers recently, hasn’t it? Russell Martin was unveiled as the new manager a week ago but, since then, very little to report from Ibrox, with supporters eager to see a new signing or two through the door.

On Tuesday, Rangers will learn the identity of their first opponents of the Martin era, with a Champions League second round qualifier to come, a tie coming up as soon as 22/23 July.

Needing to act fast in the transfer market, could the Gers be about to make a big splash?

Rangers targeting a new midfielder

A range of youth and experience could be targeted by the new manager this summer. Jamie Vardy has already been touted with a move to Ibrox, but he’s not the only Premier League stalwart in the club’s crosshairs.

According to a report by Mick Brown of Football Insider, Rangers are ‘considering’ a move to sign midfielder Christian Eriksen this summer, believing he could ‘play an orchestrating role’.

The 33-year-old is a free agent, having left Manchester United following the expiration of his contract, but still showed his quality in a Denmark shirt this week, scoring against both Northern Ireland in Parken and then Lithuania in Odense during friendly victories for de Rød-Hvide.

So, despite his age, data analyst David O’Brien believes Eriksen is still a “world-class playmaker”, so signing him would represent a massive coup for Rangers, albeit salary could be a stumbling block, considering he was earning £150k-per-week at Manchester United, according to Capology.

Nevertheless, his arrival would get the Ibrox faithful excited, especially considering he would be reminiscent of a fans’ favourite from yesteryear.

How Eriksen could emulate Brian Laudrup at Rangers

A certain Brian Laudrup joined Rangers from Fiorentina for £2.3m in the summer of 1994, and this was certainly a solid investment, widely considered to be amongst Rangers’ greatest players of modern times, as well as one of their most ‘gifted and talented entertainers’.

Eriksen’s fellow countryman, who had won the European Championship against all odds two years earlier, played 150 times for the Light Blues, scoring 44 goals, winning three league titles, the Scottish Cup, a League Cup and was named SFWA Footballer of the Year twice, before being inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame in 2006.

Derek Clark of the Rangers Review labels Laudrup the greatest ever player to grace Scottish football, while Craig Williams of Football Scotland outlines how the ‘special’ Denmark international is a bona fide club legend.

So, could Eriksen have a similar impact to that of his compatriot?

Well, at his best, Adam Smith of Sky Sports argued that Eriksen was the ‘Premier League’s best creative midfielder’, while Duncan Alexander of Opta’s the Analyst agrees, labelling him ‘one of the most effective attacking midfielders’ in Premier League history having racked up 81 assists in the competition’s history.

Premier League

310

55

81

Champions League

53

7

14

Europa League

55

10

14

FA & EFL Cups

41

11

12

Denmark national team

144

46

34

Having made 649 club appearances for Ajax, Tottenham, Inter, Brentford and Manchester United, Eriksen does boast serious pedigree, just as Laudrup did.

However, at 33 years old, there could be concerns that he is over the hill. Well, let’s assess his statistics from this season to find out if that is the case.

Minutes

1,737

16th

Goals

5

7th

Assists

5

5th

Goals – xG

+1

3rd

Goals per shot

0.15

4th

Progressive passes

77

9th

Key passes

47

4th

Shot-creating actions

84

6th

Goal-creating actions

12

4th

As the table outlines, despite only featuring in 31.6% of Manchester United’s total minutes this season, Eriksen was actually one of their most-impressive performers, ranking highly for goals and assists, as well as metrics relating to chance creation, passing and shooting accuracy.

Following the Red Devils’ victory over Aston Villa on the final day of the Premier League season, Eriksen said about his future “we’ll see”, adding “there’s options” but nothing has been decided just yet, possibly opening the door to a move to Glasgow.

It’s certainly ambitious, but Rangers do have a history when it comes to recruiting Great Danes, and Eriksen would certainly make an impact, should he choose to make the move to Govan.

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