All posts by z3u9t.icu

Over the last couple of days, Tottenham Hotspur have been splashing the cash in the transfer market in an attempt to build on their recent Europa League success.

Mohammed Kudus joined the club in a £55m deal from West Ham United earlier this week, looking to provide new boss Thomas Frank with the tools for success in his maiden year at the helm.

It’s likely that investment has been provided and injected into the Lilywhites, with more additions expected before the end of the current transfer window.

Numerous areas of the pitch have been subject to interest, including the midfield department, which could also see numerous players depart North London during the off-season.

Any funds that are generated could be massive in their hunt for new additions, potentially handing Frank the best chance of success in his maiden year at the club.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new signings this window

Morgan Gibbs-White has been the main target as of late, with a deal looking likely to be completed at one point after triggering the £60m release clause in his deal at Nottingham Forest.

However, his move to join the Lilywhites has stalled after the Reds threatened legal action against the side after allegedly making an illegal approach for his services this summer.

It remains to be seen if a deal can still be completed, but moves have been made elsewhere, including a deal to land Bayern Munich’s Joao Palhinha, according to GIVEMESPORT.

They claim that Frank’s side have made an approach for the Portuguese international’s signature, after the holding midfielder only made six league starts last campaign.

It also states that he could well be allowed to depart the Bundesliga side this window, as they look to cash in on his services after paying £47.4m for his signature from Fulham last summer.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be more important than Gibbs-White

The situation around a move for Gibbs-White during this window is one that could drag on over a period of time, especially given Forest’s threat of taking legal action.

It’s evident that the Reds have made a huge mistake with his release clause, potentially making such a scene around his departure given the lowly figure he’s available for.

The 25-year-old played a huge role in their ability to reach Europe for the first time in three decades, registering seven goals and eight assists under former Spurs boss Nuno Espírito Santo.

However, given how quickly the move progressed before the Forest hierarchy stepped in, it’s likely the player himself wants to complete a move to play Champions League football for the Lilywhites.

There’s no denying that he would be a sensational addition, but given James Maddison already operates in such a role, along with the need for a deep-lying option, it could make Palhinha a more attractive proposition.

The 30-year-old, who’s been labelled “world-class” by compatriot Ivan Cavaleiro, averaged 1.7 tackles per 90 in the Bundesliga last campaign, winning 70% of the tackles he entered – showcasing his ability to regain possession.

His talents have also been reflected in his tally of 7.1 duels won per 90, 2.7 of which have been aerially, demonstrating the commanding presence he possesses – able to operate as a real ball-winner at the heart of Frank’s side.

Games played

17

Minutes played

667

Pass accuracy

93%

Progressive passes

4.7

Tackles won

1.7

Tackle success

70%

Duels won

7.1

However, he’d also completed 93% of the passes he attempted, making 4.7 progressive passes per 90, having the talent in possession to provide the players in front of him with the tools for success.

It remains to be seen if the player himself would be keen on a move to North London, but it’s evident that the hierarchy are targeting the top-level talent needed for future success.

The need for a ball-winning option in the Spurs side is vital this summer, with a deal for Palhinha arguably a more important one for the club than Gibbs-White during the current window.

Perfect with Kudus & Gibbs-White: Spurs to make bid for "complete" talent

Tottenham Hotspur are making some serious moves within this summer’s transfer window.

1 ByEthan Lamb Jul 11, 2025

It really is all happening for Arsenal at the moment.

Instead of the frustratingly quiet and slow summers fans have grown accustomed to, the North Londoners have been incredibly busy in the transfer market.

Martin Zubimendi, Kepa Arizabalaga and Christian Norgaard are already through the door, and Noni Madueke’s £52m move from Chelsea has been given the ‘here we go’ treatment from Fabrizio Romano.

And yet the Gunners aren’t finished there, as they continue to be linked with more attacking superstars, like Rodrygo and an international who’d be his dream number ten.

Arsenal target Rodrygo's dream ten

The stories linking Arsenal with Rodrygo first started popping up over a month ago, after it was revealed that he was unhappy with being played out of position on the right.

Transfer Focus

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

The links might have taken a slight backseat in the last couple of weeks due to reports on Viktor Gyokere and then Madueke, but they are still very much there.

It seems like the Brazilian would cost the Gunners around £78m, and while that is a massive sum of money, he’s more than proven his ability to be a game-changer over the last few years.

Moreover, the North Londoners are also targeting an attacking midfielder who would not only improve the entire team but would be a dream ten for the Brazilian.

At least that is according to a recent report from Italy, which has reaffirmed Arsenal’s intense interest in Eberechi Eze.

In fact, the report goes a step further, revealing that the player has given the green light to the Premier League runners-up, and that talks between the two clubs are already ongoing.

A price is not mentioned in the story, but it has been widely reported that he has a release clause worth around £68m in his deal, so a final fee is likely to be near that figure.

It would be a sizable investment, but Eze has proven his worth and then some over the last few years and would be a dream ten for Rodrygo.

Why Eze would be Rodrygo's dream ten

The first, unavoidable and arguably most crucial reason Eze would be Rodrygo’s dream ten at Arsenal is his output.

In 43 appearances for Crystal Palace last season, totalling 3303 minutes, the game-changing “magician,” as dubbed by pundit Micah Richards, scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists.

In other words, the former QPR gem averaged a goal involvement every 1.72 games, or every 132.12 minutes, and he was almost as effective in the campaign, averaging one every 134.41 minutes.

Appearances

36

43

Minutes

2285′

3303′

Goals

11

14

Assists

6

11

Goal Involvements per Match

0.47

0.58

Minutes per Goal Involvement

134.41′

132.12′

Just imagine how effective the Real Madrid ace, who racked up 25 goal involvements in 3452 minutes last season, could be playing with the Palace ace.

The second reason he’d be a dream teammate is that last season saw him prove that he’s not only a big game player, but someone who can help drag his side over the finish line for major trophies.

The 27-year-old scored in the quarter-finals, semi-finals and then the final of the FA Cup, so the Los Blancos winger will know that he can rely on the Englishman to be at his best in the most tense moments.

Finally, by looking at his heat map from last season, we can see that the former Santos gem likes to come inside when he’s on the wing, and conversely, the Greenwich-born star clearly likes to drift wide based on his heat map.

In other words, the two players would be able to interchange and get into their preferred areas of the pitch without getting in each other’s way.

Ultimately, Arsenal need to improve their attacking options this summer, and if they want to do that in a big way, then signing Rodrygo and Eze would be the way to do it.

Gyokeres' dream number 10: Arsenal weighing up move for £100m "machine"

Viktor Gyokeres could strike quite the partnership if Arsenal signed this Premier League star.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 10, 2025

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe isn’t rushing into anything this summer. The Englishman is desperate to enhance his squad during the transfer window, but he won’t be making signings for the sake of it.

With Champions League football gracing St James’ Park next term, bringing in some high-quality players will be crucial to their ambitions of going far in the competition.

There are several key areas in which Howe wishes to improve, notably his attack. Will he be able to sign his top targets this summer?

Newcastle's search for new signings

One area the Toon are desperate to strengthen is the attacking department. As such, a bid of around £45m was submitted to Nottingham Forest for winger Anthony Elanga.

This was swiftly rejected, but it shows the direction that Howe is looking to take. It remains unclear whether another bid will be made for the Swedish winger in the coming days.

Signing a new goalkeeper is also on Howe’s wish list and it appears as though the club are closing in on a deal to sign James Trafford.

“Newcastle are closing in on James Trafford deal, final details being sorted, said Fabrizio Romano on X.

“Agreement almost done with Burnley and then it will be here we go. Newcastle are planning to get the deal done very soon.”

Burnley value the player at £40m, and Trafford could turn out to be a better signing than Elanga.

Why James Trafford could be a better signing than Elanga

Last season, Newcastle scored 92 goals across their 48 matches in all competitions, which works out as just shy of two goals a game.

In comparison, they also conceded 58 goals in the same number of games, which is 1.2 goals conceded per match.

Given the statistics, surely the need to improve their defence is far greater than signing a winger, especially when Howe can call upon the likes of Jacob Murphy, who enjoyed his best year in Toon colours, England international Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes. Depth is no doubt important, of course, but a new forward is hardly a priority.

Metric

Trafford

Pope

Dubravka

Games

45

28

10

Goals conceded

16

35

12

Goals conceded per game

0.4

1.3

1.2

Accurate passes per game

24.1

13.8

21.1

Saves per game

2

3.1

2.9

Balls recovered per game

7.6

8.6

7.9

Last season, Trafford was excellent for Burnley as they finished second in the Championship.

Remarkably, he conceded just 0.4 goals per outing in the second tier, while succeeding with 100% of his run outs per game and making two saves per match – a success rate of 85% – for Burnley.

Overall, Trafford only conceded 16 goals from 45 matches, a truly stunning record, and there is no doubt he would improve Howe’s backline considerably.

The 22-year-old hasn’t even hit his peak yet, but he certainly isn’t short of confidence, dubbing himself “world-class” a few months ago.

Widely believed to be the next England number one, Trafford could fast-track his way into this position by securing a move to Newcastle. Evidently, his potential is huge, even bigger than Elanga’s, scoring just six times last term. On that evidence, the Swede isn’t going to improve the Magpies significantly.

Trafford may have played just 28 Premier League games during his embryonic career so far, but the youngster is heading straight for the very top and would undeniably make an instant impact at St James’.

If Howe can get this deal wrapped up as soon as possible, hopefully, it will be the catalyst for more new signings.

Never mind a better signing than Elanga, Trafford might turn out to be the best signing of the summer for Howe.

He's better than Joao Pedro: Newcastle battling to sign "elite" £85m star

The Magpies are set to miss out on Joao Pedro.

ByTom Cunningham Jun 30, 2025

Manchester United’s quest to return to their former glory has reached an all-time low in 2024/25, with the club registering their lowest ever Premier League finish.

The Red Devils only managed to pick up a total of 42 points from their 38 outings, also their lowest since the division’s formation in 1992, highlighting the work needed this summer.

Ruben Amorim is the latest manager tasked with the responsibility of winning the league, after numerous other candidates tried and failed to end their now 14-year drought.

Sir Alex Ferguson was the last person to lift such a trophy at Old Trafford, with millions upon millions of pounds wasted on players who are evidently not at the level required for success in England’s top flight.

The current transfer window is an opportunity to learn from their mistakes in the past and secure top-level talents who can contribute positively to their end goal of once again being a force to be reckoned with.

The latest on United’s hunt for a new striker this summer

Juventus star Dušan Vlahović has emerged as a surprise option for United this summer, with work already being done behind the scenes to complete a deal for the Serbian international.

He’s not the only one, with Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta another player on their shortlist after he scored 17 times this campaign and led the Eagles to an FA Cup triumph.

However, despite the interest in the aforementioned talents, progress has been made on a deal to land Eintracht Frankfurt talisman Hugo Ekitiké, according to one Spanish outlet.

They claim that talks have already been held with the Frenchman’s representatives over a move to Old Trafford, with a bid expected for his services in the coming days.

It also states that the hierarchy see the 22-year-old as a priority addition this summer, unsurprisingly so given his tally of 22 goals and 12 assists across all competitions this campaign.

One obstacle is likely to be the player’s asking price, reportedly valued at around £85m.

Why United’s latest target would be a better signing than Gyokeres

Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres is another striker who’s been firmly on United’s radar over the last couple of months, with the Swede undoubtedly one of Europe’s hottest prospects at present.

The 27-year-old has caught the eye with his bonkers goalscoring record, notching 54 goals in just 52 appearances across all competitions throughout the 2024/25 season.

Such form, coupled with his previous stint under Amorim, has seen him hugely linked with a move to Old Trafford, but concerns have been raised over his ability to replicate such form in the Premier League.

However, it appears as though the club could be set to miss out on his signature completely, with the talisman personally wanting a move to rivals Arsenal instead this window.

Such a decision will undoubtedly be a blow to the Red Devils’ ambitions within the market, but they shouldn’t worry, with fellow target Ekitike arguably a better addition.

The youngster has already proven his talents in one of Europe’s top five leagues, as seen by his tally of goals this campaign, demonstrating he’s more than capable of carrying such form over to England with him.

Whilst he’s been outscored by Gyokeres, he’s managed to better him in numerous key areas that are vital for a top-level striker, highlighting why he’d be a more effective option for Amorim.

Games played

33

33

Goals scored

15

39

Goals per shot on target

0.4

0.3

Pass accuracy

75%

71%

Passes into final third

0.8

0.5

Take-on success

47%

45%

Carries into final third

2

1.3

Aerials won

1.8

1.1

Ekitike, who’s been described as the “next Mbappe” by journalist Graeme Bailey, has produced a better goal per shot on target rate, proving that he’s more effective with the opportunities that fall his way in front of goal.

His all-round play is also more impressive than the Swede’s, completing more passes and winning more aerial battles per 90, having the ability to link up with players around him and provide the side with a focal point should they need to be direct.

The French star has also shown evidence that he can produce chances out of nothing, registering more carries into the final third per 90 and completing more of the take-ons he’s attempted, subsequently not relying on others around him to hand him an effort at goal.

There’s no denying that both options would massively bolster the attacking unit at Amorim’s disposal, but given the stats produced and the difference in age, there’s no doubt that Ekitike is the more attractive prospect.

If he can replicate such success at Old Trafford, he would certainly become a fan-favourite, potentially playing a huge role in their ambitions of ending their unthinkable wait for a title triumph in the years to come.

The new McTominay: Man Utd moving to sign "one of the best CMs in Serie A"

Manchester United have a player in their sights who could replicate Scott McTominay’s success.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 19, 2025

Newcastle United’s pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo seems to be completely off the cards now. The Magpies were strongly linked with the Brentford winger at the end of May, with The Telegraph claiming they would ‘be in pole position’ for the Cameroon star if they acted fast.

However, they didn’t act fast enough, with Manchester United nipping in before the Magpies and seemingly reading the race for Mbeumo now. Ruben Amorim’s side ‘are expected to continue prioritising the signing’ according to the Manchester Evening News, suggesting there is little to no chance the Magpies will sign their first-choice attacker now.

With that in mind, Eddie Howe’s side need to find an alternative attacker. They may well have another Premier League star linked to a summer move up North.

Newcastle’s search for a winger

There is no doubt that losing out on Mbeumo has put a real dent in the summer transfer plans at St James’ Park. However, with Champions League football returning to the club, the alternative option has bags of experience in the competition.

Transfer Focus

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

It seems as though Jack Grealish is destined to leave Manchester City this summer, after a tough few months and his omission from the Club World Cup squad. Well, Football Insider suggest that the Magpies ‘are leading the race to sign’ the England international this summer.

However, they will not be the only side trying to sign Grealish this summer. Fellow Premier League outfit Everton are also at the front of the queue, whilst there will be interest from abroad.

Grealish is valued at £41m by Football Transfers, but a loan deal is the ‘most likely’ outcome.

Why Grealish would be a good signing

Make no mistake about it, the 2024/25 campaign was not an easy one for Grealish. He only played 32 times for the Citizens across all competitions, with just 20 of those games coming in the Premier League.

2025 so far has seen the England international play just seven Premier League games, featuring for just 144 minutes. He scored in that spell, too, with his goal coming against Leicester City.

It was a strike which meant a lot to the player on a personal level.

Yet, let’s not forget the quality the former Aston Villa star has. It was on show both at his boyhood club, for whom he scored 32 times and grabbed 43 assists in 213 games, and at the Etihad Stadium.

In fact, City content creator Steven Mcinerney described him as “immense” back in 2023.

One thing that Grealish can bring to the Magpies’ squad is experience in the Champions League. He was a treble winner with City in 2022/23, playing 90 minutes in all but one of the knockout games in their successful European campaign.

He managed 16 goal involvements in 50 games in that successful season for City.

That European pedigree is one reason why he makes an excellent alternative to Mbeumo, who, in his own right, would have been an excellent signing.

The Bees star managed 28 goal involvements in 38 top-flight games last term, and certainly would have added dynamism to their attack.

Yet, he seems to be off the table, and the maverick that is Grealish might be St James’ Park bound, instead. To get an idea of how suitable an alternative Grealish is, one can compare their stats from their most productive Premier League seasons, which for the City star was 2020/21, when he managed 16 goals and assists in just 26 games.

The stats on FBref stack up against each other well. That season, Grealish averaged 3.33 key passes and 7.08 progressive carries per 90 minutes, compared to 1.85 key passes and 3.43 progressive carries each game from Mbeumo this term.

Goals and assists

0.66

0.71

Key passes

3.33

1.85

Shot-creating actions

6.96

3.8

Goal-creating actions

0.82

0.53

Progressive carries

7.08

3.43

If Howe can help get Grealish back to his very best, like we saw four years ago, then he will have a sensational player on his hands. Not only will he bring flair on the ball and creative nous, but plenty of experience in the Champions League.

Losing out on Mbeumo was disappointing, but signing Grealish could be a huge catalyst for the Magpies to kick on in the 2025/26 campaign.

Better than Joao Pedro: Newcastle plotting offer for £85m "monster"

Newcastle are hoping to add more firepower to Eddie Howe’s squad this summer.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Jun 11, 2025

Sheffield United are keen to rebuild after missing out on promotion to the top-flight and have now made contact to sign a star who is thriving in the EFL, according to a report.

Sheffield United set to go again despite managerial uncertainty

The Blades will still be feeling the heartache of their EFL Championship playoff final defeat to Sunderland last month, though there is plenty of talent present at Bramall Lane as they prepare for another tilt at promotion next term.

Nevertheless, Sheffield United chiefs are said to be deliberating over whether to sack Chris Wilder following a frustrating conclusion to their bid for Premier League football, with no decision yet made as to if he will still be in charge by the time pre-season commences.

In spite of conflicting opinions, BBC reporter Nick Staton believes Wilder deserves to lead the Blades into 2025/26 and that criticism of the man at the helm is simply unwarranted.

“Wilder is United’s best ever boss. This isn’t to undermine the brilliant work of Dave Bassett, but the game’s changed. Football has never been more challenging or dominated by money.

“A manager’s job is harder than it was 30 years ago. Considerably so, in my opinion. Even in defeat, Wilder should be praised. There’s nobody better to get things going again next season.”

Sheffield United want to make "excellent" free agent their first summer signing

Sheffield United are now in a race to sign a Championship striker on a free transfer.

ByBrett Worthington Jun 5, 2025

Inevitably, time marches on and so does the focus of a particular club. Sheffield United have already identified free agent forward Emil Riis Jakobsen as a target, illustrating that plans are already in place regardless of who is in the dugout.

Continuing that theme, the Blades are now interested in bringing a versatile star to Yorkshire who only has one year remaining on his current contract.

Sheffield United make contact to sign Ethan Galbraith

According to Football Insider, Sheffield United have made contact to sign Ethan Galbraith from Leyton Orient by virtue of registering their interest in the Northern Ireland international’s services.

Swansea City are also in the mix, and it is said that the League One outfit could look to cash in on the versatile 24-year-old, who can play at right-back, in central midfield or on either flank.

Ethan Galbraith’s excellent campaign for Leyton Orient – all competitions

Appearances

51

Goals

6

Assists

8

Labelled “unbelievable” by Richie Wellens, the Manchester United academy graduate helped his side to the playoff final before Charlton Athletic saw them off, and his ability to function in several different roles has drawn attention on the market.

Earning four caps for Northern Ireland, Galbraith is wanted by at least one other unnamed second-tier club and may represent an inexpensive option due to his contractual situation.

However, you get the feeling that Wilder’s future will need to be decided before the Blades can proceed on this one. Hopefully, a conclusion on that front can be reached sooner rather than later.

With promotion sealed, Sunderland have now been handed another boost by reports that one of their summer targets is now open to completing a move to the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland secure promotion back to Premier League

In one tense, nervous affair, the beauty and the heartbreak of the playoffs was on show for all to see at Wembley. Sheffield United were left in shock, but Sunderland were left delirious when Tommy Watson coolly placed home from range to hand the Black Cats promotion at the death. Coming from behind, Regis Le Bris’ side took Sunderland back to the Premier League for the first time in eight years.

Le Bris had his say on an unforgettable moment, telling reporters after his side’s triumph: “It feels fantastic to have lived this moment with our fans. I am really proud of the work we have done this season.

“The players, the staff, and the people in the building have been really connected and believed that it was possible. In the end, the emotion and the feeling are really impressive.

“We are always focused on the present, and the path – the journey – is something we live together. It had its ups and downs, so we are always focused on the next step. In the next few days, we will realise what we have achieved together.”

Sunderland could soon sign their next Amad in "unplayable" EFL star

Sunderland could finally win their next Amad Diallo with this tricky attacker.

ByKelan Sarson May 29, 2025

Now that they’re in the top flight, Sunderland undoubtedly have a tough task on their hands. None of the last six promoted sides have survived at the first time of asking in the Premier League, meaning that the Black Cats are up against a growing trend next season. What would certainly help their push for safety, however, is the arrival of someone who knows exactly how to win in England’s top tier.

Henderson now "open" to Sunderland return

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Jordan Henderson is now open to completing a move to Sunderland this summer with those at the Stadium of Light also keen to make a deal happen as, according to talkSPORT, they ‘believe he would add valuable experience to their young team’.

The Ajax midfielder is seemingly on his way out of the Netherlands after 18 months this summer and could enjoy a full circle moment by heading back to where it all started.

The England international should, on paper, take hold of the opportunity to enjoy a fairytale ending to his career with both hands. Since leaving Liverpool for Saudi Arabia’s Al Ettifaq in a move that came with plenty of criticism, Henderson’s reputation has arguably been on a downward spiral, however, during his time at Ajax, he has managed to break back into the England setup under Thomas Tuchel.

Games

79

Goals

5

Assists

10

Minutes played

6,067

There’s no denying his experience no matter what some think of his recent decisions, though. Henderson has won it all as a captain in English football and could be worth every penny of his £75,000-a-week base salary if Sunderland make their move this summer.

Dubbed “selfless” by Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard in 2019, Henderson could receive the chance to complete the most fitting move to end his career in the Premier League courtesy of Sunderland.

Arsenal have been handed significant news about their pursuit of Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres, with Gunners sporting director Andrea Berta and the recruitment team now alerted to a potential deal-breaker in talks.

Arsenal in reported talks over signing Viktor Gyokeres this summer

In the last few days, reports from both Portugal and England have claimed that Mikel Arteta’s side are moving forward in their attempts to seal a move for the 26-year-old.

Arsenal risk Huijsen repeat after Zubimendi update involving Real Madrid

The Gunners have already been hijacked by La Liga’s heavyweights.

ByEmilio Galantini May 16, 2025

A Bola report Arsenal have offered Gyokeres a £7 million-per-year contract already, with Sporting setting an asking price of around £63 million amid Berta’s pretty serious interest in striking a deal for the Primeira Liga superstar.

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

CaughtOffside, meanwhile, state Arsenal are in advanced club-to-club talks for Gyokeres as they look to steal a march on Premier League rivals Man United and Liverpool in pursuit of his signature.

Going by these claims, it would appear that the Gunners’ links to Gyokeres stretch far beyond just interest, with Berta looking to sign a top striker for Arsenal as one of his key summer priorities.

“I’m not inside to know their thoughts, but definitely, I would say a striker, a top, top striker, that can bang in 40 to 50 goals like all the top teams.” said ex-Arsenal star and Como boss Cesc Fàbregas to Amazon Prime recently.

“He [Gyokeres] could be an option, 100 per cent. He is an extraordinary striker.

“He is a focused player, who pays attention to details, he is competitive, never lets his guard down, and doesn’t want to rest. He is as an athlete, a player and team-mate who instils confidence in his team-mates with what he gives to the team.”

Called a “phenomenon” by Rui Borges, the former Coventry City striker has been free-scoring since making the move to Portugal, and currently boasts 52 goals from 50 appearances in all competitions this season.

Arsenal receive "major" Gyokeres update amid Sporting deal-breaker

However, Gyokeres’ electric form also puts Sporting in a solid negotiating position, even if there is a release clause in his deal.

Football Transfers state that Arsenal are determined to finalise a deal for Gyokeres, and will have representatives in attendance to watch him play in the Taca de Portugal final against Benfica on May 25.

In what they describe as a “major update”, though, Berta and co are informed of a key requirement on Sporting’s end which could prove an obstacle in Arsenal’s talks to sign Gyokeres.

Sporting are adamant the vast majority of his final agreed transfer fee must be paid within two years, and this may prove problematic for the north Londoners. Arsenal are required to agree to Sporting’s terms or risk another club swooping in to hijack their move, as per FT, so the transfer is proving more complicated than initially reported.

Arsenal have alternatives to pursue if a move does collapse, but Berta is believed to be especially keen on Gyokeres.

Chelsea have now submitted a £47m offer for a “world-class” goalkeeper, and talks are expected to move quickly in the coming weeks, according to a report.

Maresca and Chelsea's goalkeeper problem

After a poor showing in the 2-1 UEFA Conference League defeat against Legia Warsaw, the Blues have responded with back-to-back victories, most recently picking up a 1-0 victory against Everton at Stamford Bridge, securing their third Premier League clean sheet of the month.

Robert Sanchez has returned to the starting XI in the Premier League, and the recent defensive showings have been much-improved, but the mistakes the Spaniard made earlier in the campaign are likely to be in the back of Enzo Maresca’s mind.

Sanchez has made five errors leading to goal in the Premier League, the joint-highest number of any player in the division, meaning there have been widespread suggestions that Maresca could look to bring in a replacement in the summer.

Chelsea now have "strong" chance of signing £206k-per-week Barcelona star

Enzo Maresca’s side have thrown their hat in the ring.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Apr 26, 2025

AC Milan’s Mike Maignan is one goalkeeper of interest, with the west Londoners making contact over a potential deal earlier this month, while they are also in the race for Angers shot-stopper Yahia Fofana, who has been recommended by Didier Drogba.

However, it appears as though a different goalkeeper could be one of Chelsea’s key targets, with a report from Spain revealing they have now submitted a €55m (£47m) offer for Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel.

Kobel’s performances for Dortmund have attracted the attention of a number of European clubs, but the Blues are the most interested party, and talks over the deal are expected to move quickly over the next few weeks.

The 27-year-old has made it clear he wants to play for an elite club, which means a move to Stamford Bridge could be of great appeal, should they manage to qualify for next season’s Champions League.

"World-class" Kobel could be Sanchez upgrade

The 6 foot 5 colossus is clearly very highly regarded by his current employers, with Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl lauding him as “world-class”, while he also impressed scout Ben Mattinson in the semi-finals of the 2024 Champions League.

The Swiss shot-stopper’s top-level experience is likely to be appealing to Chelsea, while he has also received plaudits for his ability in possession of the ball, which could be crucial, given Maresca’s passing style of play.

While the Blues have started to pick up more clean sheets recently, Sanchez’s howlers earlier in the campaign indicate it is the right decision to bring in a new goalkeeper this summer, and it is exciting news that the move for Kobel is now gaining traction.

With the summer transfer window approaching, Crystal Palace are now reportedly looking to shock a mega rich club in the race to sign one particular attacking talent for Oliver Glanser should he stay put.

Crystal Palace face Oliver Glasner concern

In his first full season in charge at Selhurst Park, it’s fair to say that Glasner’s impressive spell at Crystal Palace has not gone unnoticed. The Austrian is reportedly among the names on RB Leipzig’s radar as they look to welcome their replacement for the sacked Marco Rose. Having previously managed in Germany, there will be plenty of concern surrounding Glasner’s future in South London.

The Eagles have already suffered one major departure away from the pitch in the form of Dougie Freedman and the last thing that Steve Parish needs is to be left replacing both his sporting director and manager.

Of course, it wouldn’t be the first time that Europe’s top clubs came swooping in for Palace’s top talents. Just last summer, the headlines surrounded Michael Olise, who eventually swapped Selhurst Park for Bayern Munich.

Now, on top of Glasner, Eberechi Eze has also been linked with a summer exit amid links to the likes of Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur. Given that Palace sit above both those sides in the Premier League this season, losing Eze to either would represent the most frustrating blow for Crystal Palace.

Potentially preparing for the worst, however, Palace have reportedly turned their attention towards a move to sign one particular Bundesliga talent ahead of Newcastle United.

Crystal Palace battling to sign "complete" Merlin Rohl

According to Bild in Germany, Crystal Palace are now shock contenders to sign Merlin Rohl from SC Freiburg this summer in a deal that will cost a reported €25m (£21m). With Liverpool and Newcastle also interested, there’s no doubt that the Eagles would be landing an impressive coup by signing the attacking midfielder in the coming months.

What would be most impressive if Rohl joined Palace over Newcastle specifically is how the finances of both clubs compare. These days, thanks to PIF, those at St James’ Park represent one of the richest clubs in world football and could put that billionaire status to good use this summer having managed their PSR issues over the last year. Meanwhile, Palace are often forced to sell before they can buy.

Just where Rohl’s next destination is remains to be seen, but his arrival would certainly ease any potential Eze exit blow for Crystal Palace this summer. The 22-year-old has earned plenty of praise during his Bundesliga rise over the years, including from former Ingolstadt coach Tomas Oral, who said: “Merlin’s the complete midfielder. He can do it defensively and offensively.”

With the Premier League calling, Palace will be desperate for Rohl to make his choice and join up with Glasner’s side this summer.